Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater xx-xx-xx (04) Mr Hugos Night to Remember

Summary

Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater: "Mr. Hugo's Night to Remember"

Release Date: July 8, 2025

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Introduction

In this enthralling episode of “Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater” titled “Mr. Hugo's Night to Remember”, listeners are transported from the chilling night of the Titanic’s tragic sinking to a modern-day high-stakes salvage operation seeking to uncover the forgotten treasures of the legendary ship. This detailed summary encapsulates the key plot points, character dynamics, ethical dilemmas, and the ultimate resolution, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps to highlight pivotal moments.

Setting the Scene

[00:22] Narrator:
The story opens on a foggy night off Cape Cod, April 14, 1912, just after midnight. The steamer Californian is adrift in the North Atlantic, approximately 400 miles off Cape Race, Newfoundland. The setting is eerily calm and dark, setting the perfect backdrop for a mystery surrounding the imminent Titanic disaster.

[02:02] Hugo Legrand:
A ship.

Hugo, a watchman on the Californian, spots a large passenger liner approaching, which he suspects to be the Titanic. This recognition sets the stage for the unfolding drama between the crew members as they observe the Titanic's activities.

Introducing the Characters

• Hugo Legrand (Doug Credit): The adventurer and leader of the salvage expedition.
• Smalley (Stephen Russell): A seasoned sailor on the Californian.
• Captain (Alan Nelson): The pragmatic captain of the submarine Glommer 2.
• Craig (Jim Granlin): The sailor assisting in the operation.
• Dame Eva Hartley (Carol McManus): A 12-year-old Titanic survivor providing a poignant perspective.

The Salvage Operation

Fast forward to the present day, the narrative transitions to the ambitious salvage mission led by Hugo Legrand. The goal is to unearth artifacts from the sunken Titanic using the state-of-the-art submarine Hugo One.

[06:47] Ted Bicknell:
"Tonight we'll speak with Mrs. Eva Hartley..."

Ted Bicknell introduces the expedition, emphasizing the technological prowess of Hugo One, including its titanium hull and powerful hydraulic manipulators, designed to withstand the immense pressures at the Titanic's depth.

Ethical Dilemmas and Controversy

The episode delves into the moral debate surrounding the salvage operation. Dame Eva Hartley, a survivor of the Titanic, voices her concerns against the operation.

[11:20] Dame Eva Hartley:
"I think it's despicable. It would be far better left alone as an undersea memorial..."

Hugo counters her viewpoint, asserting the importance of remembering and showcasing history through the recovered artifacts.

[12:33] Hugo Legrand:
"The world belongs to the living, Ted, not to the dead."

This exchange underscores the central conflict between preservation for remembrance and the commercial or exploratory motives behind salvage operations.

The Descent and Discovery

As Glommer 2 begins its descent, the team navigates technical challenges and begins discovering well-preserved artifacts, such as champagne bottles, shoes, and the Artemis statue.

[35:35] Hugo Legrand:
"You want that for sure, yes. Careful, careful. Don't scratch it."

The meticulous retrieval of artifacts highlights the tension between excitement over discoveries and the gravity of disturbing a historic wreck site.

Emerging Conflict and Climax

Midway through the operation, unforeseen complications arise. An underwater landslide approaches, threatening the safety of the submarine.

[39:15] Captain:
"We can't go back to the ship."

Panic ensues as the submarine becomes ensnared, leading to a desperate struggle to free themselves. The claustrophobic and tense atmosphere is masterfully conveyed through sharp dialogues and sound effects.

[44:57] Captain:
"Salt water leaking in."

The situation deteriorates as power fails, and the crew must rely on their wits and remaining resources to survive.

Resolution and Aftermath

In a twist of fate, the submarine manages to break free through sheer determination and quick thinking, though not without losses.

[48:36] Craig:
"We’re not moving."

[48:55] Captain:
"They're falling out."

The episode culminates in a harrowing escape, leaving the survivors to reflect on their ordeal and the consequences of their ambitions.

Reflections and Exhibit Presentation

The narrative shifts to the present day, showcasing the aftermath of the salvage operation. Dame Eva Hartley provides a somber reflection on the Titanic disaster, emphasizing the heroism and compassion displayed during the tragedy.

[51:15] Eva Hartley:
"The death the victims of the Titanic faced is the same death we all face. And always, it's how we handle it that matters."

Listeners are then taken on a virtual tour of the Titanic exhibit, featuring the preserved Hugo One submarine and the artifacts retrieved, epitomizing the delicate balance between historical preservation and ethical responsibility.

[56:28] Eva Hartley:
"Here it is, exactly as it was then. Even the uneaten ham sandwich... remains as fresh today as it was almost a full century ago."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Hugo Legrand
  [02:02]: "A ship."
  [12:33]: "The world belongs to the living, Ted, not to the dead."
  [35:35]: "Don't scratch it."

• Dame Eva Hartley
  [11:20]: "I think it's despicable. It would be far better left alone as an undersea memorial..."
  [51:15]: "The death the victims of the Titanic faced is the same death we all face..."

• Captain
  [29:45]: "We're going to drown."
  [44:57]: "Salt water leaking in."

• Craig
  [44:29]: "What is that?"
  [37:14]: "A wine bucket. Something like that."

Conclusion

“Mr. Hugo's Night to Remember” masterfully blends historical tragedy with modern adventure, exploring deep ethical questions about memory, profit, and respect for the departed. Through vivid storytelling, dynamic characters, and gripping suspense, the episode leaves listeners contemplating the true cost of uncovering the past and the lessons it imparts for the future.

[56:30] Narrator:
"You have been listening to Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theatre's presentation of Mr. Hugo's Night to Remember..."

The episode closes with heartfelt dedications and an invitation to continue exploring mysteries in future installments.

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Credits
Actors, writers, sound engineers, and contributors are acknowledged for their exceptional work in bringing this immersive story to life.

“Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater” continues to honor the Golden Age of radio, offering rich, engaging narratives that captivate and provoke thought in equal measure.

Transcript

[Jenius Bank]

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[Narrator]

It'S a foggy night on old Cape Cod, a perfect night for our mystery. Tonight, Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater presents a Titanic mystery thriller entitled Mr. Hugo's Night to Remember. It is Sunday night, April 14, 1912. The time has just passed seven bells in the first night watch. 11:40pm the location is latitude 41 degrees 52 minutes north, longitude 50 degrees 22 minutes west, a point in the North Atlantic approximately 400 miles off Cape Race, Newfoundland. The steamer Californian is stopped for the night. Her engines shut down. She drifts before an immense field of packets. The moonless night is calm, bitterly cold, and as black as the dazzle of icy stars overhead will allow. A watchman in a wool cap and sea coat stands upon the upper deck of the Californian, smoking a cigarette while he watches one bright star on the eastern horizon grow larger and brighter. Gradually the light becomes elongated into a string of lights and he recognizes it for what it is.

[Hugo Legrand]

A ship.

[Narrator]

A large passenger liner heading west southwest on a course parallel to their own. Which ship it is, he's not sure, although perhaps had he thought about it, he might have remembered that this is the week the Titanic is scheduled to make her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.

[Smalley]

Well, take a look at who's up.

[Narrator]

The man on deck is joined by another.

[Smalley]

How do you stand it out here? I stay warm as long as I keep smoking. When I stop smoking, I go in.

[Narrator]

They speak in the kind of hushed undertones one automatically assumes when speaking in the presence of so many stars.

[Hugo Legrand]

What's that ship out there?

[Smalley]

I don't know. I've been watching her coming up. She's a liner. Judging by the way she's lit up, could be the Titanic. Evans says she's somewhere around. He's been picking up her messages all day over the wireless, jamming the airwaves. They even cut him off in mid sentence when he was giving them the warning about the ice. She's moving right along.

[Ted Bicknell]

What's she making?

[Smalley]

20 knots? She better think about slowing down soon, unless she's figured out how to do what Moses did and make this ice field miraculously part itself. Are you sure she got the message about the ice? She got it all right. Every ship in the North Atlantic is aware of it.

[Narrator]

The two men continue gazing out at the Ship which after a time appears to have stopped some 10 miles distant. Several minutes pass, then.

[Captain]

Look at that.

[Smalley]

She's putting on a fireworks display. Well, what do you know? Must be having a party. Maiden voyage after all. Ah, there's the difference between them and us, buddy boy. When we stop for the night, we all go to bed. When they stop, they just keep right on celebrating. What must it be like a maiden voyage on a fancy liner? Hey, there goes another. How do we know for sure it's a party? Maybe you better go wake Evans up and have him call over there. He won't appreciate being waking. Well, just the same, maybe you better go do it. Okay, but I'm saying it was your idea.

[Ted Bicknell]

When he gets through, tell him to.

[Smalley]

Have somebody row over and deliver us.

[Ted Bicknell]

A couple of bottles of champagne.

[Craig]

A little far to row, don't you think?

[Hugo Legrand]

They're drunk enough.

[Captain]

They won't think so.

[Smalley]

Hey, hold it a minute.

[Hugo Legrand]

What is it?

[Craig]

Come on back up here.

[Smalley]

What is it? Listen to that. They're playing music.

[Ted Bicknell]

That's music.

[Smalley]

Ah, well, we can forget about the emergency. They wouldn't be playing music if that was the case. They're all souses spouses over there. And they made the band go outside so they can dance under the stars. They're so drunk, they can't even feel how cold it is. Yeah, well, I can. And I'm going in. Must it be like maiden voyage on a fancy liner like that? Beautiful women in satin gowns, tuxedos, champagne, silver cigarette cases. Must be one never ending revelry. Sound envious? Ah, maybe a little. Sure. Maybe I'd trade places for a night like tonight, but that'd be enough. This life suits me just fine. Yeah, well, I'm going in.

[Hugo Legrand]

I hate watching the celebration.

[Smalley]

I can't be a father. Me too. I'm going to dead. There's a party for me tonight will have to be one taking place in my dream.

[Ted Bicknell]

I'm Ted Bicknell and this is Worldview Tonight. Tonight, salvaging the Titanic archaeology or scavenging? Our focus this evening, the salvage operation now underway to bring back artifacts from the sunken Titanic. An operation not without risk and certainly not without controversy, as there are those who feel the Titanic should rightfully be left alone. Tonight we'll speak with Mrs. Eva Hartley, Dame Hartley, who was just 12 years old and a passenger on the Titanic the night it went down, and will be going by satellite to the actual location in the North Atlantic where the crew of the salvage ship Glommer 2 are making last minute Preparations for the initial dive down to the wreck. We'll speak with Hugo Legrand, the great Hugo, as he builds himself the organizer and leader of the expedition. First, for our viewers who need filling in on the nature and scope of this enterprise, we have arranged to show you this bit of footage borrowed from our affiliate sister station WPPX. Let's see that now.

[Eva Hartley]

They'Re doing it again. 75 years after her sinking, RMS Titanic is about to be revisited. Only this time it won't be just any enterprising visitor happening by, but none other than media Blitzman himself, entrepreneur Hugo Legrand. The Great Hugo. Yes, the great Hugo, renowned for his adventuresome expeditions to test the great myths and legends of the world. Loch Ness, Bigfoot, Abominable Snowman and the Bermuda Triangle, is about to confront a real life legend as he becomes one of the few human beings on Earth to come face to face with the sunken Titanic. Like standing on the moon or standing on Everest. This is not the sort of trip that any but the most adventurous will ever take. But leave it to the great Hugo to take up the challenge. They'll be going down 13,000ft where water pressure exceeds three and a half tons per square inch. Want to find out what that feels like? Try balancing a Cadillac on your toe. Centerpiece of the expert expedition is the mini submarine dubbed the Hugo One, which the great Hugo and his pilot will take down to the wreck. Let's take a closer look at this amazing submersible. The hull of the capsule a mere 2 inches thick. Not so thick to withstand over 77,000 tons of water pressure bearing down. But this is not ordinary metal. It is titanium. Strongest metal known to man. Virtually uncrushable. Central feature of the submarine is the 2 1/2 mile long tether to the mothership, which supplies the enormous extra power, enabling it to accomplish tasks far greater than any of its predecessor submarines. Anyone for arm wrestling? Check out those two robot arms. Powerful hydraulic manipulators. They can extend a full 8ft and are capable of picking up objects much heavier than the bikini clad volunteer seen here. Unhand her, you cad. Sailing day arrives at last and it's a beautiful day with banner blue skies and brilliant sunshine. As the crew of the Glommer to prepare for departure, the crowd of happy onlookers loin the dock, many of whom have been here since early morning when the complimentary champagne first began flowing. The great Hugo is known for his gala send offs. And this one doesn't disappoint. And there's the traditional two toot Salute as the glommer too, drops her loins and pulls away from the pier. The crowd sends off a boisterous yell. And there's the great Hugo himself, appearing on the poop deck, waving a confident goodbye to the crowd with streamers voying it's bomb voyage. They're off to the open ocean with me.

[Ted Bicknell]

Here in the studio tonight is Dame Eva Hartley. Dame Hartley, you were on board the Titanic that night. How does all of this strike you?

[News Anchor]

I think it's despicable. It would be far better left alone as an undersea memorial, like they were calling for what these people are doing. They are like little boys with their hands in the candy jar. Someone should slap their hands.

[Ted Bicknell]

Let's go directly now to the Glommer 2 at sea and bring in Mr. Hugo. Mr. Hugo, can you hear me?

[Craig]

Oh, yes.

[Ted Bicknell]

Yes, I hear you, Mr. Hugo. Why do this?

[Craig]

Why do it? Well, of course, because we can.

[Hugo Legrand]

Because it's there. We live in a world of advanced technology. Our reach extends now even into the furthest corners of the globe.

[Captain]

The.

[Hugo Legrand]

The globe. It's our destiny to go there.

[Ted Bicknell]

Go there? Perhaps. But why bring anything back?

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, Ted, it wouldn't be much of a salvage operation if we didn't. Oh, I know what you're getting at. Of course, the Titanic was a disaster, but there are other. Other disasters. Hundreds of shipwrecks salvaged every day. Why, if we were to memorialize every accident where there's loss of human life, we'd have to bronze every automobile crash.

[Ted Bicknell]

Every train wrecked, every plane that falls.

[Hugo Legrand]

Out of the sky, or pretty soon those things would begin to clutter up the landscape. The world belongs to the living, Ted, not to the dead.

[News Anchor]

Dame Hartley, it is precisely for the sake of the living that we ought to leave it alone. There were things that happened that night. Things I saw that I will never forget. Tremendous acts of courage and heroism. Selflessness. People willingly sacrificing their own lives for the sake of others. Not only family and loved ones, but perfect strangers. Tenderness and compassion. That's what I saw. And that's the lesson we need to bring back. Not curios and souvenirs. I was 12 years old when my father picked me up and kissed me and set me into a lifeboat and then waved goodbye for the last time. There hasn't been a day gone by that I haven't returned to walk those decks again in my mind. Now that I'm old, I've come to realize that all my life I have been walking the depths of the. Of the Titanic. So do we all. Every moment we are living. The death the victims of the Titanic faced is the same death we all face. Theirs was abbreviated. For most of us, it tends to be drawn out, but in the end, it's the same. And always, always, it's how we handle it that matters. It's the way in which we approach things that makes all, all the difference.

[Ted Bicknell]

Very moving, Dame Hartley. Mr. Hugo, how do you respond? Mr. Hugo, how do you respond?

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, sorry, Ted, I wasn't listening. We're awful busy here getting ready.

[Craig]

Listen, would you tell Mrs.

[Hugo Legrand]

Survivor I've forgotten her name, that it will be my personal privilege to bestow upon her a souvenir artifact.

[Captain]

Virtue.

[News Anchor]

I don't want anything. I wouldn't accept it.

[Hugo Legrand]

In fact, I'm going to make certain we bring back something extra special to send to her. Will you tell her that?

[News Anchor]

Tell him no. Tell him to go away.

[Captain]

Grave robbers.

[Ted Bicknell]

Mr. Hugo. Many are calling for the Titanic to be recognized as an undersea memorial.

[Hugo Legrand]

Hey. And I agree, that's precisely what I'm doing. Because having these objects in a display where people can go and see them is the best way to remind folks.

[Ted Bicknell]

That'S the only reason.

[Hugo Legrand]

What's that?

[Ted Bicknell]

That's the only reason you're doing it. Not for money, not for prestige and notoriety. Those aren't trophies you're bringing back, are they, Mr.

[Hugo Legrand]

Anchorman? What you don't seem to realize is I'm a showman. Some say I'm the world's greatest showman. What you have here is the world's greatest showman going down to look at.

[Ted Bicknell]

The world's greatest shipwreck and bringing back plunder and loot.

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, it's customary for those to assume the risk to deserve the spoils. Fact is, the ship is resting in international waters. It belongs to no one or everyone. Well, same thing. Everybody. Nobody. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to get ready.

[Ted Bicknell]

You're not afraid, Mr. Hugo?

[Captain]

Afraid?

[Hugo Legrand]

What for?

[Ted Bicknell]

You're going down a great depth relying on your equipment. Some say a voyage to the bottom of the sea is like a voyage into outer space. What if something should go wrong, Mr. Bicknell?

[Hugo Legrand]

Danger is my forte. I thrive on it. Why, that doesn't mean I'm foolharded. Why, the way to prepare for danger is to be prepared. This submarine that you see here is the safest, most sophisticated salvage submersible ever devised. I had a direct hand in every step of it's design. Nothing will go wrong because we've thought of everything.

[Ted Bicknell]

That sounds A lot like what they.

[Craig]

Said about the Titanic.

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, yes, I see. You're very clever. But this baby here happens to be made of titanium. Indestructible. Why? The fact is, if the Titanic hull had been made of the same stuff, there would be nothing down there for any of us to go and bring back. Now, if you'll excuse me, I must continue getting ready. Pardon me, why are you standing there?

[Eva Hartley]

Me, sir?

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, I'm not talking to the electric winch, you idiot. I asked you why you are standing there.

[Captain]

I. I'm attending this line, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, go and tend it somewhere else.

[Eva Hartley]

Can't you see you're standing in my way?

[Hugo Legrand]

Sorry, sir.

[Captain]

Sorry.

[Hugo Legrand]

Good evening, Mr. Hugo.

[Captain]

Are we all ready?

[Hugo Legrand]

I am ready, Captain. Of that much I'm sure. Good. If you'll just step this way.

[Captain]

I think we're all ready for you.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's a little rough this evening, but you won't notice that once you start down.

[Captain]

Now, why don't I hold your cloak.

[Hugo Legrand]

And if you just climb these stairs and. Where is Mr. Smalley? Oh, he's already inside waiting for you. Now, let me see, how do I go about this? Well, sir, if you'll just try sitting down on the top step. Sitting, then swinging your legs inside the hatch.

[Captain]

Very well. That's it.

[Hugo Legrand]

There we go. Now, if you want to try hopping across and sitting on the lip of the hatch. It won't tip, will it? Oh, no, no, sir, not while it's noise. Ah, I see.

[Craig]

Well, Mr. Smalley, are you in there?

[Captain]

Yes, sir, right here.

[Craig]

Ready for me? Are you.

[Captain]

Ready?

[Craig]

Now?

[Hugo Legrand]

Let me see. Just hop over. Hop. That's okay. That's okay.

[Eva Hartley]

You're all right.

[Captain]

There we are.

[Hugo Legrand]

Now you can just. Just slide in. Right.

[Craig]

All right.

[Hugo Legrand]

Here I. They don't make these hatch openings very large, do they?

[Craig]

I seem to be having.

[Hugo Legrand]

I'm having. If you try sucking your breath in, that may help.

[Craig]

Yes, yes.

[Hugo Legrand]

Mr. Hugo. I'm going to try pushing on your shoulder.

[Craig]

Yes, just not too hard. Not too hard. Not too. Everybody all right in there? Stupid fool. I said not too hard.

[Captain]

Sorry, sir, I would have fainted.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's practically inside already.

[Craig]

Mr. Smalley, how about you?

[Captain]

Yes, I think so.

[Craig]

Sure, he's fine.

[Hugo Legrand]

He's fine. Close the hatch lid and let's get on with this.

[Eva Hartley]

All right, gentlemen, bon voyage. Good luck.

[Craig]

Hoist away.

[Eva Hartley]

Take her off.

[Captain]

Craig, do you read me?

[Pilot]

Right here.

[Captain]

Systems checked.

[Craig]

Swing out. Swing out. Divers in the water. Watch that line.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's awfully warm in here. Switch on the air conditioning.

[Captain]

Sorry, sir. There's no climate control.

[Hugo Legrand]

No what?

[Captain]

No air conditioning. No heat either.

[Craig]

You're kidding.

[Captain]

Well, don't worry. We'll cool off as soon as we begin our descent. In fact, when we get down there, you'll probably wish we had some of this heat. Water Temperature is about 33 degrees at the bottom. Craig, give me a reading on how much power you're sending.

[Pilot]

I'm sure 25, right on the nose.

[Craig]

Lower away, lower away. Who is the idiot at the controls?

[Captain]

It's not his fault, sir. We're a lot of weight and it's difficult for the boys to. Excuses.

[Hugo Legrand]

Mr. Smalley, are you not wishing your excuses? God, this is terrible. When are we gonna stop this rolling?

[Captain]

And it won't be long, sir. Camera's working. Batteries functional.

[Pilot]

Scrubber oper.

[Hugo Legrand]

I thought you said there was no air conditioning.

[Captain]

No, no, no, sir. That's just the air scrubber. All it does is remove excess CO2.

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, leave it on anyway, sir.

[Captain]

It won't do any good.

[Craig]

I said, leave it on.

[Captain]

Yes, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's rocking and heaving.

[Craig]

What's that?

[Captain]

It's just the Zodiac. It's coming to pick up the divers. Craig, before they go, could you have them check the forward ballast clamp, will you?

[Hugo Legrand]

How much ballast are we carrying?

[Captain]

1200 pounds, sir. There are four lead planks, each weigh about 300 pounds.

[Hugo Legrand]

Mr. Swally, if you do not get us out of these waves and out of this heat.

[Captain]

Yes, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Right this minute.

[Captain]

Yes, sir. Craig. I think we'll go ahead. Mr. Hugo. That is, I think we'd like to get started.

[Pilot]

Okay. Your call, Craig.

[Captain]

Arrived clear to dive. Cast off. Releasing compressed air flooding tanks. Here we go.

[Hugo Legrand]

Beginning to time.

[Captain]

See, it gets a lot calmer as soon as we leave the surface. Bloody awful. It's not like a liftoff, is it? It's more like going down in an elevator.

[Craig]

Why are we leaning like this?

[Captain]

We're a little heavy up front. Don't worry, I can take care of it.

[Hugo Legrand]

What's that?

[Captain]

It's called a mercury pump. What it is, is a series of hollow metal spheres about the size of bowling balls. They're all connected in a row. Inside is mercury. And by pumping mercury from one sphere to the next, we can keep adjusting our weight until we reach horizontal trim. It'll take a few minutes.

[Hugo Legrand]

How long till we reach bottom?

[Captain]

Let me see. Right now we're sinking at a rate of 1 1/2ft per second. That should get us there in about 2 hours, 35 minutes.

[Hugo Legrand]

That long?

[Captain]

Of course, it took The Titanic. A lot less time. But then it had over 46,000 tons of negative buoyancy pulling it down. All we've got is 1200 pounds of lead. If we had more, we could get there faster. Then we'd have to worry about slowing down before we reach bottom. Even as it is, we're falling at a pretty good clip.

[Craig]

Well, how do we then?

[Captain]

What's that, sir?

[Hugo Legrand]

How do we slow down?

[Captain]

Oh, by dropping one of the balance plates just before we reach bottom. That'll cut our rate of descent in half. The other two will drop as we begin our ascent. The fourth is for emergency light from above.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's fading. Fading so quickly. First it was green, now blue. How that's going? It's fading. Fading. It's totally black out there.

[Captain]

Amazing, isn't it? We're only down 400ft. Most people don't realize it, but probably 95% of all the oceans exist in total darkness.

[Hugo Legrand]

What's that I'm seeing out there?

[Captain]

Keep looking. You'll see quite a show. Mr. Hugo. Those streaks of light. Those are bioluminescent zooplankton. They're mostly microscopic. Pretty soon you should start seeing those glowing skeleton fish look so ghastly.

[Craig]

There goes one.

[Captain]

Now there'll be others. It's our light that attracts them. They've never seen anything manufacture its own light quite like we do. I'll tell you what. I'll switch to red cabin light so you can see out more easily.

[Pilot]

How's it going?

[Captain]

We just passed 800. We're watching a light show at the moment.

[Pilot]

You remember to pack your lunch.

[Captain]

Ham sandwiches and dill pickles. We got them.

[Pilot]

Okay. Have a good rest and I'll just back with you just before you arrive. But call anytime you get lonely. You know I always enjoy long distance dogs.

[Captain]

Right. We'll burn out.

[Hugo Legrand]

Amazing.

[Captain]

Look at them all. Quite a sight, isn't it.

[Hugo Legrand]

Mr. Smalley? Did I hear you mention ham sandwiches?

[Captain]

Yes, sir. They're right behind you there in that locker.

[Craig]

Oh, yeah.

[Eva Hartley]

Well, I believe I'll just help myself.

[Hugo Legrand]

Excuse me. There we go.

[Captain]

Hmm.

[Craig]

Are they still out there?

[Captain]

Well, yes, sir. Plenty of them. It's quite a sight watching them come slithering up from out of the darkness and peering in and us through the portholes. It's a good thing they don't have a mirror to see how ugly they are. Or maybe they're thinking the same thing about us.

[Hugo Legrand]

Thought I couldn't. That's very good. I like that. I'll use that in my book.

[Craig]

What's that?

[Captain]

Oh, that's our echolocator telling us how far off the bottom we are. That sound, that's us. And wait just a second. That sound coming back up is the bottom. Sound travels at about 4,000ft per second underwater. So it takes that long for the sound to bounce off the bottom and come back up. Gives you an idea of how deep we're going.

[Hugo Legrand]

Well, this sandwich is just right. I believe it's time for a nap.

[Craig]

I'm sure you'll wake me in time.

[Hugo Legrand]

That I'm not missing anything.

[Craig]

Yes, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Good night, Smolly.

[Captain]

Good night, sir. Before you go to sleep, I wonder. Your foot is sort of digging into my ribs.

[Hugo Legrand]

I don't like to remind you that.

[Craig]

Your butt is also pressing against my outer arm.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's bound to be an uncomfortable trip, so let's make the most of it by not complaining.

[Captain]

Yes, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Good night, Smally.

[Craig]

Sat, what are we doing?

[Captain]

Coming in for a landing, sir. We're just about there. Oh, we're about 150ft off the bottom now. In a few seconds, I'll release a quarter of our ballast. That'll allow us to settle down gently.

[Pilot]

Present rate of Disad, 1.5. 3. Release in five seconds.

[Captain]

Roger.

[Craig]

Ready.

[Pilot]

3, 2, 1. Let her go.

[Captain]

Ballast away. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Did you feel anything?

[Hugo Legrand]

Nothing but your foot, which is still pressing against me.

[Craig]

Wait. I didn't.

[Captain]

I didn't. I didn't either. It didn't let go. We're not slowing up.

[Craig]

What's going.

[Captain]

We're not slowing up.

[Pilot]

I am still slowing. 1.5. We better slow it down.

[Hugo Legrand]

What is it?

[Craig]

It's not releasing. Do something.

[Captain]

Nothing's responding.

[Craig]

Do something, you fool. Nothing's responding. Do something. It's too late. Something. It's too late.

[Captain]

Mr. Hugo.

[Craig]

Get off me.

[Captain]

Mr. Swollen, Mr. Smalley.

[Craig]

Shh. Listen.

[Hugo Legrand]

Jake. We got water. Water's coming in.

[Captain]

No.

[Craig]

We're sinking. We're going to drown. Stop it. Stop it.

[Captain]

We're not sinking.

[Craig]

We're not? No.

[Captain]

It's only condensation that forms inside the hull during descent. When we landed, we jarred a lot of it loose. But we're not sinking. Titanium, remember? We're much too strong for that. That's right.

[Hugo Legrand]

That's right. We're titanium.

[Craig]

What happened? You all right down there?

[Captain]

We're in the mud. I can't tell for sure. The bottom and side ports are covered. I can see water above us through the overhead.

[Pilot]

Want us to try pulling you out?

[Captain]

No, no, that might damage the Cable, I'm gonna try powering us out. We're not in too deep.

[Craig]

Not too much.

[Captain]

Suction.

[Hugo Legrand]

Suction like when you step in the.

[Captain]

Mud and lose your shoe. The question is, can we pull ourselves out by our own bootstraps? Okay, here goes. Engaging one. Engaging two. Engaging three. Damn, that one's jammed. Engaging four.

[Hugo Legrand]

Mr. Smalley. Mr. Smalley.

[Craig]

We're not moving.

[Captain]

Now we go. Pull up.

[Hugo Legrand]

It's not working.

[Craig]

We're not moving.

[News Anchor]

Wait.

[Craig]

You burn up the engine. No, wait. Wait, wait, wait.

[Captain]

It's working. It is working.

[Craig]

I feel it. It's working. It's working.

[Captain]

Oh. Oh. We're out. Oh, man, we're out.

[Hugo Legrand]

Very good, Mr. Smiley.

[Captain]

Well, we almost didn't make it.

[Hugo Legrand]

I still can't see out.

[Craig]

Are you sure we're.

[Captain]

Look at the altimeter. I'm 10ft up. Just wait a second. And the current will clean us off.

[Craig]

Damage report?

[Captain]

Well, nothing so far. Even the jammed rotor looks like it's worked itself free. I don't know. Either the balance clamp wouldn't release or there's something wrong with the circuit board. I tried rerouting the command.

[Craig]

Oh.

[Captain]

The ballast just let go. It wasn't working. And it just did.

[Pilot]

Look, guys, why don't we think about calling it a day? Start again tomorrow?

[Captain]

Well, it's up to you, Mr. Hugo.

[Hugo Legrand]

You mean go all the way back up?

[Captain]

It might be a good idea to check things over from the outside.

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, I see. And how far are we from the debris field?

[Captain]

Well, we should be pretty close right where we are.

[Hugo Legrand]

And you say there's no damage?

[Captain]

Well, there's nothing we can tell from in here, but I really think it would be a good idea.

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, yes, I'm sure you do, Mr. Smalley. I'm sure you would love to check things over and thereby add another day's diving to the bill.

[Captain]

No, please, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

But since I am the one who's paying for this expedition, not you, I don't think we'll give up just yet.

[Captain]

I assure you, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

And I assure you that we will stick around and select a few small items before we start up. This day will not have been a total loss.

[Captain]

Yes, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

I'll watch outside. You steer. Besides, I'm not about to have come this far without getting at least one look in the Titanic.

[Captain]

Craig, I think we've decided to look around down here a little while before calling it quits. Can you give us our position and bearing on the target?

[Pilot]

Okay, here's how I got you. I show a large target approximately 200 meters northwest of your present position. Most likely the bow section. There is another target of Probable size approximately 700 meters southwest. Probably the stern to the right, 45 degrees. Keep going. Keep going. Stop there. Okay, now you're pointing straight at it. Follow that head and you should run right into it.

[Hugo Legrand]

Where do we look for debris?

[Captain]

Practically anywhere, I guess. It's supposed to be scattered all around. Why don't we head for the bow? Sure. We'll pass over plenty along the way. Well, we got a headwind of about a half knot. Looks like a mild winter snowstorm out there. I'd say 30ft. Visibility maximum. 20 is clear. After that, it starts getting a little murky.

[Pilot]

Okay.

[Hugo Legrand]

Good hunting.

[Pilot]

Call me if you need me.

[Hugo Legrand]

Hiding. I'm getting. I mean, I've waited for this so long. I've waited for this. I don't see anything yet. Nothing but mud.

[Captain]

Wait.

[Hugo Legrand]

Stones.

[Craig]

Wait, no, Wait, wait. There's something. There's something.

[Hugo Legrand]

Listen.

[Craig]

I can't tell.

[Hugo Legrand]

Never mind. Go on, go on. I can't tell what it is. We don't want it, do we? It's no good for the exhibit.

[Craig]

Wait, wait. There's something. What is it? It looks like. Stop. Get that. Get it. Pick it up.

[Hugo Legrand]

You want that for sure, yes. Careful, careful. Don't scratch it.

[Captain]

Look at it.

[Craig]

Such a perfect condition. As if it just slid off the 16 instead of falling two miles underwater.

[Captain]

Stowed, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Very good, very good. Let's go on. Keep going. What's that?

[Craig]

No, no, no.

[Hugo Legrand]

Keep going. There's more. There's more. More coming up.

[Craig]

Look, look.

[Hugo Legrand]

There's.

[Captain]

Champagne. Champagne.

[Craig]

Stop. Get it.

[Hugo Legrand]

You have to have champagne for the exhibit at least one month.

[Craig]

Perfect. I feel so giddy, so giggly. I feel like I just drank it myself. Imagine a bottle of champagne from the Titanic.

[Captain]

Stowed, sir.

[Craig]

Good boy. Good boy.

[Hugo Legrand]

Keep going. Keep going. I'll tell you when. What's that? There.

[Craig]

There. There's a shoe. Get that shoe.

[Hugo Legrand]

That's good. Yes, yes, a shoe. Oh, that will look great in the exhibit.

[Captain]

Stowed, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Keep going.

[Craig]

Keep going. Look at it all. There's so much sliding by beneath us. There's so much. Can you believe it? There's too much.

[Hugo Legrand]

But, no, no, wait, wait. We'll have to be careful. We'll have to be more selective.

[Craig]

Only the good stuff.

[Hugo Legrand]

No more shoes. You hear me, Mr. Smalley?

[Craig]

No more shoes.

[Captain]

Yes, sir. This is so exciting.

[Hugo Legrand]

Now, something silver. Find me something silver. Silver platter, a silver base.

[Craig]

A wine bucket. Something like that.

[Captain]

Wait, wait.

[Craig]

What's that?

[Hugo Legrand]

What's that?

[Craig]

Stop, stop, stop. Over there. Look. Look. What is that?

[Captain]

What is it, sir?

[Hugo Legrand]

That would be the perfect centerpiece for the exhibit.

[Captain]

What is it, sir?

[Craig]

That's Artemis. Goddess.

[Hugo Legrand]

Artemis, Goddess of the hunt. It was on the Titanic when she went down. Carefully, carefully.

[Captain]

Boy, it's a little hard to get hold of.

[Craig]

Easy.

[Captain]

Oh, sincere. It keeps slipping. There. Okay, I think I've got it.

[Hugo Legrand]

Keep it up, keep it up. Don't drop it.

[Craig]

Look at it. It's in such perfect.

[Hugo Legrand]

Look at her reaching back to take an arrow from her quiver.

[Craig]

Why, nothing's damaged. Nothing's broken. Not even a chip. The perfect centerpiece for the exhibit.

[Captain]

And toad, sir.

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, very good. Very good, Mr. Smalley. Very nicely done.

[Craig]

Now more.

[Hugo Legrand]

Let's keep going. This is proving more profitable than I.

[Craig]

Wait, wait.

[Hugo Legrand]

Watch this. Slow.

[Captain]

What is it?

[Craig]

Do you know what I'm seeing?

[Captain]

No, sir.

[Craig]

Do you know what those are?

[Captain]

No, sir.

[Craig]

Teacups. It's a whole rack of teacups. Can you imagine how perfect. Teacups from the Titanic. Get them. Get them all.

[Captain]

Yes, sir.

[Craig]

Don't you drop them.

[Captain]

Yes, sir. No, sir, I won't.

[Hugo Legrand]

My, my. You're doing an excellent job, Smalley.

[Captain]

Thanks, mister.

[Hugo Legrand]

When we get back to the surface, we'll have to think seriously about giving you one. I mean, why not?

[Craig]

After all, you. You.

[Hugo Legrand]

You got us out of the butt.

[Captain]

Yes. Yes, sir. What's that? I. I don't know.

[Hugo Legrand]

Where's it coming from?

[Captain]

I don't know.

[Craig]

What is that?

[Captain]

An underwater landslide, maybe. Craig. Craig, are you hearing what we're hearing? Craig. Craig, I'm not reading you.

[Craig]

Why aren't they answering?

[Captain]

Plumber 2 plumber 2 why aren't they answering? My God. My God. That's no landslide.

[Craig]

Well, there's only one thing it can be. What? That explains why we're not getting through. What?

[Captain]

We can't go back to the ship.

[Craig]

Because the ship is coming to us. Something get us out of here. If the ship is coming down, it could land on us. We'll be crouched. We'll be buried. Well, where do I go? Anywhere.

[Hugo Legrand]

Anywhere.

[Craig]

Go somewhere. Run. Run? Run. Where? You don't understand. It's coming from two and a half miles above us. It won't fall straight down. It'll flutter. I could just as easily steer under it as away. Mr. Smalley is coming. Call them.

[Captain]

Craig? Craig, are you there?

[Craig]

Polly, let's go out. Let's get out of here.

[Captain]

No, no, no. I want to try something first.

[Craig]

What's that?

[Captain]

It's a magnetometer it can tell us if there are any large metallic objects nearby. Something's out there. It might be the bow section of the Titanic. I don't know. I've lost my bearing. We've got to go see. No, no, we gotta go look. It's not far.

[Craig]

You keep watching, Mr. Smalley. Keep watching.

[Captain]

30 meters. 20. You should start seeing it.

[Hugo Legrand]

I don't see any.

[Craig]

There's something out there. Something's out there. Slow up. Slow up.

[Captain]

What is it? Look. The ship. It's the Titanic, isn't it? Are you sure? Look at the rust. Look at the hull. Look at the anchor. It's covered with rusticles. You're right. Jesus.

[Craig]

Let's go up. Let's get out of here.

[Captain]

No, wait a minute, though.

[Craig]

Wait for what?

[Captain]

Let's get. Look out here. Look out there. Wait. I'm gonna turn it so we can see.

[Craig]

Come on. No, no.

[Captain]

Look over there. Look at the way the sediment's flowing.

[Hugo Legrand]

So what?

[Captain]

It's snowing so much harder than before. Look at it.

[Craig]

What?

[Captain]

But the bottom current hasn't changed. So something must have disturbed the bottom.

[Craig]

Where are you going? Where are you going? We've got to go see. See what? Smoley. Smolly.

[Captain]

We're out on the lee now. Something's out there.

[Craig]

Look at the magnanometer. No.

[Captain]

No. Molly. What is it?

[Craig]

Keep watching, Molly. I don't want to look. I, I don't. I don't want to know. I, I, I can't. I can't see. I, I can't. No, I can't.

[Captain]

Oh, no. Oh, Mr. Hugo. Oh, Mr. Hugo. It's us. It's the glommer too. Let's get out of here.

[Craig]

Let's get out of here. Get out of here. Let's get out of here. Flowing main tank. Let's go. Releasing ballast. Release one.

[Captain]

Release two.

[Craig]

Going up. We're picking up speed.

[Captain]

Release three.

[Craig]

Going up. Good. I can't see the bottom. This is disappearing. It's going. It's gone.

[Captain]

Thank God. I don't know. I don't know how this could have happened. I don't want to think about it. How could it happen?

[Craig]

You're right.

[Captain]

I don't know.

[Craig]

But we're filling up. Sir. Sir. Get off. Get off. I'm trying. Get off. I'm trying. It's not easy. We're upside down, sir. Oh. Oh. Shut up. What happened? We're not going up. There's the tether. I forgot we're still connected.

[Captain]

I forgot to release it.

[Craig]

Well, do it. Release us.

[Captain]

You'll have to reach.

[Craig]

I can't. Will you move your head? Move your head. Okay, this one. Remove that cover.

[Hugo Legrand]

This one here.

[Craig]

Yeah.

[Captain]

Now throw that switch.

[Craig]

Ah. Swallow. The lights. What's happened to the lights? What did you do? I didn't do anything. Nothing. I didn't even touch the switch. Smolly, we need light.

[Captain]

Wait a minute. Wait. There's a flashlight around here somewhere.

[Craig]

Light.

[Captain]

Light. Oh. Oh, no. Our main batteries are dead. They're all drained.

[Craig]

How could that happen? I don't know.

[Captain]

Salt water leaking in.

[Craig]

I don't know.

[Hugo Legrand]

Oh, my God.

[Craig]

We've lost our power now. That switch won't work.

[Captain]

That's all right. We can do it manually. Let me do it.

[Craig]

Can you move? I'm trying. I'm trying. Wait a minute.

[Eva Hartley]

Wait.

[Captain]

Here it is. It's coming. It's nearly there. There, there.

[Craig]

Watch it. Watch it. We're coming upright. Mr. Hugo, what happened? We stopped again.

[Captain]

Mr. Hugo, please get off.

[Hugo Legrand]

Hey, shut up.

[Craig]

We're sideways. Why are we sideways? Ouch. Swati, we are not going up. Why?

[Captain]

The snag.

[Craig]

On what?

[Captain]

The cable.

[Craig]

Would you release that?

[Captain]

Must have caught on something as it.

[Craig]

Was sliding over the hull. On what? I don't know.

[Captain]

I don't know. Come on. Let me look out with the flashlight. I can't see. It's just out of sight.

[Craig]

Do something. You just know the pilot. Do something.

[Captain]

Okay, okay. There's one chance. Actually two. But it depends.

[Craig]

On what?

[Captain]

There are explosive bolts holding the robot arms in place. We can blow them. The cable could be snagged on one of the arms. But even if it isn't, the force of the explosion may be enough to shake us loose. We'll be cutting off our arms to do it. But without the power, they're useless anyway. The only question is, should we do them separately or together? One blast might not be enough, but two together means we can't try it twice. Okay. Okay. What should we do?

[Craig]

The average? I don't know. Blow them separately.

[Captain]

Okay. You ready?

[Craig]

There goes the arm. It's falling off. It didn't work. It didn't work. Try again. Try it again. No. No. I wish to God, Smally. What are we going to do? Try rocking. Rock this thing. No, no, no. Stop it.

[Captain]

Let me think. If we could take some tension off the cable. But without the bell, we're gonna want to go up. Even if I flood the tanks. But without power, I can't.

[Craig]

Molly. Hey.

[Captain]

There's one thing. What? Okay, one last thing we can try.

[Craig]

Try it.

[Hugo Legrand]

What is It.

[Captain]

There may be a little juice left in the batteries. If I run them all together, there may be enough to operate the mercury pump.

[Craig]

Try it. Try it.

[Captain]

With that, we can. We can change our trim.

[Craig]

Try it.

[Captain]

Which. That may be enough to unhook.

[Craig]

Try it.

[Captain]

Okay, let's see. How do I do this? Feed numbers one through six. Number 12. Throw this. Okay, now we try the pump.

[Craig]

It's working.

[Captain]

Barely. When it's working, it's reaching for too. Now we wait.

[Craig]

Smiley, we're moving. We're tipping forward. Oh, this is going to work. I. I just know it's going to work. It's going to work. Yes.

[Captain]

I'm looking out this side. Flashlight isn't doing much good. We're coming around. At least I'll be able to see what we're going to.

[Craig]

Wait. Wait. Stop. Stop. Wait. We're losing the. Stop. We're not stopping. My precious cops.

[Hugo Legrand]

They're falling out.

[Craig]

Oh, my God. Oh, my precious cops and son. Shut up. Shut up. Why are you laughing? You did this. Shut up.

[Captain]

Look out there. Look. Look what we're caught on.

[Craig]

Look. On the arm of the statue. You see, it was your doing, not mine. Your greed. That's what got us into this. Your greed and my stupidity. Forever listening to you. No, no, you were the one. You should have released the cable. But before we started up, you were the one who said try the charges separately. Well, why did you listen to me? You're the pilot. You're in charge here. Oh, I'm in charge now, is that it? I'm in charge? Well, then get your foot off of me. Stop it.

[Captain]

Where's your flashlight, smarty? A.

[Craig]

Help.

[Captain]

Wake up. You can be in charge. Please.

[Eva Hartley]

News on The March Dateline 2089 Titanic exhibit returns in triumphant style. After languishing in a museum warehouse for almost a century, the forgotten relics from the sunken luxury liner Titanic made a dramatic reappearance this week as part of a 12 nation funky city tour that is attracting throngs of the curious at every step along the way. The Titanic exhibit, first assembled in the year 1989 and sent round the world, initially attracted hundreds of thousands of ticket buyers. In time, however, as the novelty wore off and public interest waned, the objects came to be stored in the basement of a Paris museum until recently, when, for the first time in 96 years, the public spotlight returns and the huge crowds are back. Just look at this line extending round the block at Exhibition center in New York. But just what is it that is causing all the excitement? Let's Go down and take a closer look. Entering at the front door, we pass the silver platters, the key tops and the endless row of items on display. Till at the back, we enter the dark and crowded room where a crowd of anxious ticket buyers is about to witness the unveiling of the centerpiece of the exhibit. Moving through the crowd and taking up a spot directly behind the velvet ropes, we wait for. For the unveiling. The moment arrives, the curtains are parted, and there it is. The Hugo 1, floating in its own specially constructed aquarium. The Hugo 1 antique submarine, named for Hugo Legrand, famed adventurer of his day, who body, along with the body of his pilot, lie in perfect state inside the hermetically sealed container. Hugo Legrand, the great Hugo, as he was known and for whom the word Hugotist was coined as lain suspended underwater in a permacyl time capsule in perfect darkness, far away from harmful sunlight and in a constant temperature of 33 degrees. Look inside and see him now exactly as he was then. Even the uneaten ham sandwich in the foreground remains as fresh today as it was almost a full century ago. But let us move on now as the crowd behind grows impatient. Beatrice. Each one wanting his tents to peer into yesteryear and observe the perfectly preserved specimen of the enormous Hugo in case, inside a bubble of steel.

[Narrator]

You have been listening to Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theatre's presentation of Mr. Hugo's night to remember the actors in tonight's play. Doug Credit played the great Hugo. Stephen Russell played Smalley, the sailor and the anchorman. Michael Mellor was Robin Leach and the newsreel announcer, Jim Granlin was Craig and the Sailor. Carol McManus played Dame Eva Hartley. Alan Nelson was the captain. Tonight's play was written and directed by Stephen Thomas Oney audio engineer Edwin Hurwitz sound effects engineer Dave Goodman. Live music by Eddie Shear. Sound effects by John Coletty, Lynn Cullitty, Debbie Oney, Rich Gady and Tony Baker. Recorded July 15, 1989 at the Woods Hall Community Hall. Copyrighted by Stephen Thomas only for Cape Cod Radio Mystery Theater. This program is dedicated to Robert Ballard, Martin Bowen and the rest of the crew of the north, who had the daring to go and find it and the dignity to leave it alone. This is George McConville wishing you a pleasant evening and in inviting you to tune in again when the fog rolls in on another chapter of Cape Cod Radio Mystery, the.

[Eva Hartley]

Situation.

[Craig]

It.