Podcast Summary: "Chick Carter 43-07-13 (8) The Bubbling Pool"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Episode: Chick Carter 43-07-13 (8) The Bubbling Pool
- Release Date: February 26, 2025
Introduction to the Adventure
The episode opens with a brief introduction to Chick Carter, the boy detective and adopted son of the renowned master detective, Nick Carter. The narrative sets the stage for a thrilling adventure where Chick and his companions confront the nefarious Rattler and his gang in Crystal Cave.
Tracking the Rattler and Initial Confrontation
Chick and his friend Sue successfully track the Rattler to Crystal Cave, aiming to uncover the Book of Evidence that the Rattler seeks to eliminate his opposition. Their allies, Beef and Bones, seek assistance from Chief Barlow of the Millbrook Police. However, suspicion arises regarding Chief Barlow's loyalty.
- Chick Carter narrates: "We got the Rattler and his tough stooge Clutcher into this big cavern that sent your voice back in funny echoes," (01:15).
Despite initial success in capturing the Rattler, the team inadvertently takes a wrong turn within the cave, leading them into perilous territory.
Escalation and Hostage Situation
As tensions escalate, the Rattler intensifies his efforts to extract information from Major Pennington, threatening the safety of Chick and Sue.
- Major Pennington: "I told you there were three caverns leading from the main one. They took the wrong one. What are you going to do with this?" (15:45).
The situation deteriorates when Chick and Sue are ambushed and held captive, with the Rattler deploying acetylene gas as a sinister threat.
Desperate Measures and Sacrifices
Inside the cave, Chick and Sue grapple with impending doom as the acetylene gas begins to suffocate them. In a desperate attempt to stop the Rattler, Chick decides to ignite the gas, knowing it may cost him his life.
- Chick Carter: "Our only chance. Matches. Need matches for that," (28:30).
Chick's valiant effort leads to a catastrophic explosion, resulting in massive rockfalls and the severe weakening of both him and Sue.
Beef, Bones, and Chief Barlow's Struggle
Meanwhile, Beef and Bones, along with Chief Barlow, navigate through the caverns, battling internal conflicts and the guilt of leading their friends into danger.
- Bones: "They’re all dead, that's why," (35:20).
- Chief Barlow: "If they are up there and they did kill our pals, they're just the rats I want to meet," (37:10).
Their journey is fraught with frustration as they realize the map they relied upon was flawed, leading to tragic consequences.
Climactic Resolution and Aftermath
In the climax, Chick's action to ignite the gas results in a dramatic showdown. The explosion not only incapacitates the Rattler and his gang but also traps Chick and Sue, leaving their fate uncertain.
- Narrator: "Chick's clouded, befuddled mind realized what he was doing. He exchanged one form of death for another," (50:05).
The episode concludes with unresolved tensions, hinting at future confrontations and the ongoing struggle of Major Pennington to protect the evidence against the Rattler.
Notable Quotes:
- Chick Carter: "Our only chance. Matches. Need matches for that." (28:30)
- Bones: "They’re all dead, that's why." (35:20)
- Major Pennington: "Even if I must peel off your skin inch by inch to make you talk." (22:50)
Conclusion and Tease for Next Episode
The episode ends on a suspenseful note, with Chick and Sue's survival hanging in the balance and Chief Barlow's true allegiance remaining ambiguous. Listeners are left eager for the next installment, promising more twists and the continuation of Chick Carter's daring detective work.
- Narrator: "Listen, at this same time tomorrow, when Chick Carter, boy detective, reports the next chapter called No Escape." (55:10)
Production Credits:
- Written by: Walter Gibson and Edward Gruskin
- Directed by: Fritz Blocky
- Published by: Street and Smith Publications
Closing Remarks: "Chick Carter 43-07-13 (8) The Bubbling Pool" delivers a gripping narrative filled with suspense, heroism, and the timeless charm of Golden Age radio dramas. Fans of detective stories and classic radio shows will find this episode particularly engaging as it delves deep into the perils faced by a young detective striving to uphold justice against formidable adversaries.