Podcast Summary: "Cabin B-13 48-07-05 Bill And Brenda Leslie"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Cabin B-13 48-07-05 Bill And Brenda Leslie
• Release Date: January 26, 2025

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of "Cabin B-13", hosted by Dr. Fabian, the ship surgeon of the luxury liner Moravania, listeners are transported to a suspense-filled narrative set in post-war London. The story revolves around Bill and Brenda Leslie, a diplomatic couple whose adventurous spirit leads them into a perilous encounter with a notorious criminal, Flash Morgan.

Setting the Scene

Dr. Fabian sets the stage aboard the deserted Moravania anchored at Southampton. Reflecting on past voyages, he introduces the listeners to the enigmatic cabin B13, where mysterious tales unfold.

"As I sit here in my cabin B13, I'm reminded how the tides and storms of a thousand voyages have wrought nothing more strange, more sinister than man's desire for adventure in the strange ports and lands we touch."
— Fabian [01:23]

The spotlight soon shifts to Bill and Brenda Leslie as they arrive at the Hampden's Hotel in London, a quaint establishment that belies the unfolding drama.

Arrival at Hampden's Hotel

Bill and Brenda check into Hampden's Hotel, immediately sensing an air of old-world charm:

"Quiet little hotel so dingy with its stuffiness of old carpets and yesterday's tea trays that you'd never suspect how fashionable it is or how expensive."
— Fabian [02:44]

Their appreciation for London's romanticized image is evident, with Bill reminiscing about iconic figures like Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Fu Manchu. However, tension arises as Inspector Bradford contacts them with unsettling news.

The Encounter with Inspector Bradford

Shortly after their arrival, Chief Inspector Bradford informs the Leslies about a case of mistaken identity involving Flash Morgan, a wanted criminal:

"I can't help you if you say you didn't kill him. But I can get you off scot free if you admit you did it in self defense."
— Chief Inspector Bradford [22:30]

Bill vehemently denies any involvement, but the evidence suggests otherwise. The couple is urged to remain at the hotel until their departure to Lisbon, intensifying their predicament.

Bill's Desperate Quest

Driven by a mix of desperation and adventurous spirit, Bill decides to confront the situation head-on. Ignoring Brenda's pleas, he ventures to 96 Fleet Street, the last known hangout of Flash Morgan. This pivotal moment heightens the suspense, showcasing Bill's determination:

"With you, yes. Every minute of it. But the diplomatic service who's. Alle bien, Madame la Comtesse."
— Bill Leslie [11:37]

Confrontation at the Barber Shop

Inside the barber shop at 96 Fleet Street, Bill encounters Inspector Bradford masquerading as Mr. Jenkins, a barber. The tension escalates as Flash Morgan makes an unexpected appearance:

"Down to the river. That's where the bodies fall off wards and the police launchers go out."
— Bill Leslie [05:02]

A struggle ensues, culminating in Flash Morgan's demise. However, the mystery deepens as questions about the true sequence of events emerge.

Truth Unveiled

In a dramatic twist, Brenda Leslie reveals crucial information that turns the narrative on its head:

"He went to the cupboard. He opened the door only partly and. And slashed inside. He dropped the razor inside and came back with an oilskin pouch of money."
— Brenda Leslie [26:46]

Her confession exposes that Inspector Bradford was the actual perpetrator, using the chaos to frame Bill Leslie. The revelation unravels the web of deceit, leading to the resolution of the mystery.

Conclusion

As Dr. Fabian wraps up the story, he reflects on the complexities of human nature and the thin line between heroism and folly:

"I hope to greet you again next week in cabin B13, I wonder what other memories of strange and sinister happenings will come back as we touch at the other ports of our world cruise."
— Fabian [28:27]

The episode concludes with hints of future adventures, leaving listeners eager for the next installment in the Cabin B-13 series.

Notable Quotes

• Dr. Fabian:
  "The tides and storms of a thousand voyages have wrought nothing more strange, more sinister than man's desire for adventure."
  — [01:23]

• Bill Leslie:
  "Darling, you don't understand. Who the devil wants to go to Claridge's or the Savoy? This is London."
  — [03:54]

• Chief Inspector Bradford:
  "I can't help you if you say you didn't kill him. But I can get you off scot free if you admit you did it in self defense."
  — [22:30]

• Brenda Leslie:
  "He went to the cupboard. He opened the door only partly and. And slashed inside."
  — [26:46]

Character Introductions

• Dr. Fabian: The narrator and ship surgeon of the Moravania, serving as the storyteller of the episode.
• Bill Leslie: An adventurous American diplomat with a penchant for romanticizing England.
• Brenda Leslie: Bill's British wife, whose practical nature contrasts Bill's adventurous spirit.
• Chief Inspector Bradford: The antagonist, a cunning police officer involved in framing Bill Leslie.
• Flash Morgan: A notorious criminal whose mistaken identity sets the plot in motion.
• Joseph Curtin, Naomi Campbell, and William Potmore: Voice actors portraying the central characters, bringing depth to the narrative.

Production Credits

• Written by: John Dixon Carr (also known as Carter Dixon), an esteemed mystery novelist.
• Performed by: Arnold Moss as Dr. Fabian; Joseph Curtin as Bill Leslie; Naomi Campbell as Brenda Leslie; William Potmore as Jenkins.
• Music Composed and Conducted by: Merle Kendrick
• Edited by: Charles S. Monroe
• Directed by: John Deetz
• Produced by: CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

Looking Forward

The episode teases future stories, promising more intricate mysteries and compelling character developments:

"Next week, as the Moravania docks at Cherbourg, Dr. Fabian will bring you from his cabin B13 a story in which he himself plays a small part."
— [29:15]

Listeners are left anticipating the next adventure, where Dr. Fabian hints at more personal involvement and darker twists.

"Cabin B-13 48-07-05 Bill And Brenda Leslie" masterfully intertwines suspense, character depth, and classic mystery elements, making it a standout episode in the Harold's Old Time Radio series. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer, this episode promises an engaging and immersive listening experience.