Creeps by Night 44-06-20 (xx) Those Who Walk in Darkness

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Creeps by Night 44-06-20 (xx) Those Who Walk in Darkness"

Release Date: August 9, 2025
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

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Introduction

"Creeps by Night 44-06-20 (xx) Those Who Walk in Darkness" is a gripping episode from Harold's Old Time Radio series, delving into themes of love, obsession, and the supernatural. Set against the backdrop of Bayside Hospital, the story intricately weaves suspense with classic horror elements, showcasing stellar performances by Boris Karloff and Peter Lorre. This episode transports listeners to the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of dramatic storytelling that captivated families before the advent of television.

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Setting the Scene

The episode opens with Boris Karloff narrating the setup for "The Mystery Playhouse," a rebroadcast dedicated to the service members of the United Nations. Peter Lorre serves as the narrator, setting a foreboding tone:

Peter Lorre [00:18]: "Good evening...the perpetrators of evil appear often as ordinary, normal human beings. Yes, but they are capable of conceiving acts of diabolic destruction as you will hear tonight."

Listeners are introduced to the primary setting: a private room at Bayside Hospital, where Stephen Denton lies blind from a recent explosion. Surrounding him are his wife, Valerie Denton, a dedicated nurse, and the enigmatic eye surgeon, Dr. Paul Wade.

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Character Dynamics and Rising Tensions

Valerie Denton expresses concern over her husband's blindness, prompting Dr. Paul Wade to reassure her:

Stephen Denton [01:39]: "Well, Doctor, what did you find? Will I be blind? Is it very bad?"

Dr. Paul Wade [01:53]: "There's nothing to worry about. Nothing at all."

However, Valerie remains skeptical, sensing underlying tension between her and Dr. Wade. Their past resurfaces, revealing a complicated history:

Dr. Paul Wade [04:05]: "Almost 10 years, isn't it?"

Valerie Denton [04:28]: "Why didn't you think of me 10 years ago?"

The conversation hints at unresolved feelings and possible deceit, setting the stage for deeper revelations.

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The Supernatural Element: Chandra's Rejection

Desperate to find a solution for Stephen's blindness, Dr. Wade considers a risky surgery requiring healthy corneas. The scarcity leads them to Chandra, a mystic and spiritualist living in seclusion:

Valerie Denton [08:10]: "You mean you think he might."

Dr. Paul Wade [08:18]: "I don't know. You'd have to have his consent, of course."

Their visit to Chandra's dilapidated abode introduces a supernatural twist. Chandra refuses to grant his corneas, citing spiritual reasons:

Chandra [12:18]: "I am visited by those who would rob me."

Valerie's plea:

Valerie Denton [12:33]: "Please. Please help me, Chandra."

Chandra's refusal heightens the suspense, leaving Dr. Wade and Valerie without a viable solution.

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Climactic Confrontations

Back at the hospital, tensions reach a boiling point. Stephen begins to hear disembodied voices urging him to "give back his eyes," leading Valerie to suspect Dr. Wade's malevolent intentions:

Stephen Denton [17:52]: "Why, no, it's the right one. That's bad luck."

Stephen Denton [18:10]: "Give me back my eyes."

Valerie confronts Dr. Wade vehemently:

Valerie Denton [23:16]: "You're going to know what Stephen knew before you forced him to take his life."

The true horror unfolds as it's revealed that Dr. Wade orchestrated Stephen's downfall to possess Valerie and her sight:

Dr. Paul Wade [24:21]: "I did it to free you from a man who didn't deserve you."

This revelation underscores the episode's core themes of obsession and the lengths one might go for love.

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Resolution and Aftermath

In the aftermath, Stephen Denton succumbs to the psychological torment, leading to his tragic demise. Valerie, devastated, confronts Dr. Wade, who attempts to manipulate her further. However, her resilience surfaces as she uncovers his sinister motives:

Valerie Denton [24:21]: "You murdered him just as if you'd held that gun to his head and pulled the trigger yourself."

The episode culminates with Valerie recognizing Dr. Wade's true nature, leaving listeners with a chilling reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary individuals.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Peter Lorre [00:18]: "The perpetrators of evil appear often as ordinary, normal human beings."

• Stephen Denton [02:09]: "I'm not going to be blind."

• Valerie Denton [04:28]: "Why didn't you think of me 10 years ago?"

• Chandra [12:18]: "I am visited by those who would rob me."

• Stephen Denton [18:10]: "Give me back my eyes."

• Valerie Denton [23:16]: "You're going to know what Stephen knew before you forced him to take his life."

• Dr. Paul Wade [24:21]: "I did it to free you from a man who didn't deserve you."

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Themes and Insights

"Those Who Walk in Darkness" masterfully explores the thin veil between normalcy and malevolence. Through the interactions between Valerie, Stephen, and Dr. Wade, the episode delves into:

• Obsession and Jealousy: Dr. Wade's inability to relinquish his feelings for Valerie drives him to commit heinous acts.

• Supernatural Influences: The introduction of Chandra and the mystical elements add layers of complexity, blurring the lines between science and the occult.

• Psychological Manipulation: The use of Stephen's fears and superstitions exemplifies how easily one's mind can be twisted under external pressures.

• Moral Ambiguity: The characters navigate ethical dilemmas, highlighting the consequences of their choices.

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Conclusion

"Creeps by Night 44-06-20 (xx) Those Who Walk in Darkness" stands out as a quintessential episode that encapsulates the allure of old-time radio dramas. Its intricate plot, combined with stellar voice acting and suspenseful storytelling, offers listeners a vivid auditory experience. The episode not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the nature of evil and the complexities of human relationships.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Harold's Old Time Radio, this episode promises a memorable journey into the shadows where love and darkness intertwine.

Transcript

[Boris Karloff]

The Mystery Playhouse. A rebroadcast for the service men and women of the United Nations.

[Peter Lorre]

Good evening. This is Peter Loren. The circumstances leading up to horror and tragedy are many times as innocent. Seemingly is a Sunday school picnic. And the perpetrators of evil appear often as ordinary, normal human beings. Yes, but they are capable of conceiving acts of diabolic destruction as you will hear tonight in the Mystery Playhouse. Listen now to Mr. Boris Karloff in those who Walk in Darkness. We look in on a scene taking place in a private room at Bayside Hospital. A man with heavily bandaged eyes lies restlessly in a bed. At his bedside are his wife, Valerie, a nurse and a famous eye surgeon, Dr. Paul Wade. Dr. Wade looks strangely and intently at his patient.

[Boris Karloff]

Before his peak at midnight and again in the morning. Nurse.

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, Doctor.

[Stephen Denton]

Well, Doctor, what did you find? Will I be blind? Is it very bad?

[Boris Karloff]

Now, now, take it easy, Mr. Denton. There's nothing to worry about. Nothing at all. You.

[Stephen Denton]

You're sure you weren't just saying that?

[Boris Karloff]

I'm quite sure.

[Stephen Denton]

Valerie. Valerie, did you hear that? I. I'm not going to be blind. Valerie. Valerie, where are you?

[Valerie Denton]

Right here, darling.

[Stephen Denton]

Did you hear? I won't be blind. Isn't that wonderful?

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, darling, it's marvelous.

[Boris Karloff]

You.

[Stephen Denton]

You don't sound very excited. Valerie. Don't you realize I'm going to see again?

[Boris Karloff]

She doesn't sound excited. Because I don't want you to be excited, Mr. Denton. You've got to relax. Try to sleep.

[Stephen Denton]

Sleep? With this ungodly pain? My eyes feel as though they were on fire.

[Boris Karloff]

That won't stop the. As soon as the opiate I gave you takes home. You'll be comfortable, I'm sure. Good night.

[Valerie Denton]

You're going now, Doctor?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes. I'll look in on your husband in the morning.

[Valerie Denton]

Stephen.

[Stephen Denton]

Yes, Ralph?

[Valerie Denton]

Do you mind if I step out into the corridor for a moment?

[Stephen Denton]

But you promise not to leave me? I'm afraid, Valerie. Everything's so dark.

[Valerie Denton]

The nurse will be here, dear, if you want anything. I just want to ask Dr. Wade some questions.

[Stephen Denton]

Questions? But he's already told us.

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, Stephen, I know. But I'd like to find out about the treatment and how I'm to take care of you when we get you home. You know, just little things.

[Stephen Denton]

All right, but hurry back. I. I want you near me.

[Valerie Denton]

I will, dear.

[Boris Karloff]

Good night, Mr. Denton.

[Stephen Denton]

Good night, Doctor, and thank you.

[Boris Karloff]

You're quite welcome. After you, Mrs. Denton.

[Valerie Denton]

Thank you.

[Boris Karloff]

I suggest we step into the consultation room across the hall. We'll have more privacy.

[Valerie Denton]

All right.

[Boris Karloff]

Here we are.

[Valerie Denton]

Thank you.

[Boris Karloff]

Well, it's been a long time, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, Paul, it has.

[Boris Karloff]

Almost 10 years, isn't it?

[Valerie Denton]

About that.

[Boris Karloff]

Strange that you should have called me of all people, to treat your husband's eyes.

[Valerie Denton]

I was panicky, Paul. I didn't know what to do. It all happened so suddenly. Stephen was working in his laboratory at the house when suddenly I heard a violent explosion. I ran in and found him clutching his eyes and screaming. I'm blind. First thing I thought of was an ambulance. Then you.

[Boris Karloff]

Why didn't you think of me 10 years ago?

[Valerie Denton]

That's not fair, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

Was it fair to turn your back on me? And then to marry a man almost twice your age?

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, please. Why bring up ancient history?

[Boris Karloff]

It isn't ancient history to me. I've never forgotten you.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, about Stephen's eyes.

[Boris Karloff]

What about them?

[Valerie Denton]

I have a feeling that you weren't telling him the truth.

[Boris Karloff]

You're right.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, you mean he's not going to regain his sight? He's going to be blind.

[Stephen Denton]

Oh, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

You don't expect me to be to be terribly concerned, do you, Valerie? After all, he did take you away from me.

[Valerie Denton]

Don't be vindictive, Paul. It wasn't Stephen's fault. He didn't even know of your existence.

[Boris Karloff]

And you never told him that we were on the point of being married?

[Valerie Denton]

No, never.

[Boris Karloff]

It's rather ironic that we should meet again at the bedside of my rival. Your husband. A man who may forever walk in darkness.

[Valerie Denton]

Don't say that, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

It's horrible, but unfortunately true. A moment ago you told me not to be vindictive. I'm not, really. But if I were, I could have my fill of vengeance. If I told him about us and then told him that he'll be blind forever. You wouldn't, Pa. Or I might take another form of revenge. I could tell you that an operation is called for. A very delicate operation.

[Valerie Denton]

Are you trying to say that there might be a chance?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, but supposing I refuse to perform the operation?

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, you're joking. You can't mean that.

[Boris Karloff]

Perhaps not, but you call me vindictive. Suppose I operate and my scalpel slips? What if he dies?

[Valerie Denton]

That would be murder. You're not a murderer, Paul. You wouldn't risk your professional reputation. Why must you torment me this way?

[Boris Karloff]

You really love him, don't you?

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, I do.

[Boris Karloff]

Then forget the things that I've been saying. I want you to think of me as a friend. I want you to trust me.

[Valerie Denton]

I do trust you, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

Thank you. Now, as to the Possibility of surgery. Here is the situation. The transparent film over your husband's eyes. The corneas were burned and torn with the explosion. They've been so damaged that blindness will result, even though the eyes heal.

[Valerie Denton]

But you think an operation would cure that?

[Boris Karloff]

Possibly. Although it's a very delicate job. The injured cornea must be peeled away and replaced by a fresh, healthy one.

[Valerie Denton]

Where can you get healthy corneas?

[Boris Karloff]

From the eyes of the dead. It isn't quite as horrible as it sounds, Valerie. You know, dying, peace. People often will their eyes for just this purpose. We maintain what we call a corneal bank. It's much the same as a blood bank, only. But there's this difference. Corneal tissue can't be stored more than 48 hours. It must be fresh or it's no good.

[Valerie Denton]

You have some available in the bank?

[Boris Karloff]

No, that's the trouble. I'm afraid we haven't.

[Valerie Denton]

But there's got to be some, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

I don't know where. Valerie. Unless.

[Valerie Denton]

Unless what?

[Boris Karloff]

I was just thinking. Last night, one of the interns asked me to look at a charity case that puzzled him. He lives in a dirty little shack near the waterfront.

[Valerie Denton]

Yes, Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

I stopped by and examined him. I found an incurable condition. There's no way to save him. He won't live more than a day or two. But his eyes are healthy.

[Valerie Denton]

You mean you think he might.

[Boris Karloff]

I don't know. You'd have to have his consent, of course.

[Valerie Denton]

Take me to him, Paul. I'm sure I can make him understand.

[Boris Karloff]

Oh, it may not be so easy, Valerie. He's a strange person. A mystic and a spiritualist.

[Valerie Denton]

Let me try. Just take me to him.

[Boris Karloff]

All right. We can go there now.

[Valerie Denton]

How can anyone live down here, Paul? Wet streets and fog rolling in from the river shutter.

[Boris Karloff]

You'd be surprised where people are forced to live. That's the house over there, that. That gray shack.

[Valerie Denton]

Does he live alone?

[Boris Karloff]

No. There's a toothless old woman. I don't know where he picked her up, who keeps house for him. She's rather hideous and I suspect, a bit demented. So don't be frightened when you see her.

[Valerie Denton]

I'll try not to be.

[Boris Karloff]

Here we are. There's no bell.

[Valerie Denton]

Those fog horns are giving me cold shivers.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, they do sound eerie. Here comes the old woman. Yes? We'd like to see Chandra, please.

[Valerie Denton]

You can't. He's getting ready to go away. Chandra's going on a long journey.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, we know. We'd like to see him before he leaves. We are friends of his. I said we are friends of Chandra. I was here last night. Don't you remember?

[Valerie Denton]

All right. Come in. His room's at the end of the hall. You know the way. I have to stay here by the stove. I'm cooking something. Yes, something for Chandra's journey.

[Boris Karloff]

I see. Come, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, she's ghastly.

[Boris Karloff]

But harmless, I'm sure. Here, this is the room.

[Valerie Denton]

Dark in there.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, but there's a laugh burning. But the wick is down. I'll turn it up. There, that's better.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, they're on the cart. Is he alive?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, still alive. Chandra. Chandra.

[Chandra]

Who calls Chandra?

[Boris Karloff]

It's Dr. Way. You remember me. I was here last night.

[Chandra]

Yes, Chandra remembers. But it is too late. I am going away on a journey.

[Boris Karloff]

I know. That's why I've come. I brought a young lady with me. Chandra. She has a favor to ask.

[Chandra]

Chandra has no favors to grant. Soon I will start to the other side.

[Boris Karloff]

Let her tell you what she wants. Chandra. Now, go ahead, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Chandra.

[Boris Karloff]

Well?

[Valerie Denton]

Chandra, my husband suffered an accident. An explosion. His eyes. Oh, Paul, I can't you tell him, please.

[Boris Karloff]

All right. Can you hear me, Chandra? I hear you. This young lady's husband just lost the sight of both his eyes. He'll be completely blind unless I perform an immediate operation. Unless I take parts of two healthy eyes and place them on him. He's asking that you give her your eye. Do you understand? I understand.

[Chandra]

I am visited by those who would rob me.

[Valerie Denton]

But you're going to die anyway.

[Chandra]

Die?

[Boris Karloff]

No, you are wrong.

[Chandra]

There is no death. I am going on a journey.

[Valerie Denton]

Please. Please help me, Chandra.

[Boris Karloff]

No. I will need my aid.

[Chandra]

I will need them to see into the great beyond, to guide me through eternity. The eyes are the windows of the soul.

[Valerie Denton]

I'll give you anything you ask. I'll.

[Boris Karloff]

No. No.

[Chandra]

I said no.

[Valerie Denton]

No, I. Something's happened.

[Boris Karloff]

He's dead.

[Valerie Denton]

Then it's all right. You can take his eyes.

[Boris Karloff]

No, I can't. He refused you.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, listen to me. A doctor's first duty is to the living. To heal them, to make them whole. What responsibility have you to this. This lifeless thing?

[Boris Karloff]

It's a matter of professional ethics, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, you've got to do it for me. Blindness would drive Stephen out of his mind. He's always hated the dark, like a little boy. Paul, please.

[Boris Karloff]

It wouldn't be right, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

It's a matter of life and death, not right or wrong. Paul.

[Boris Karloff]

Paul.

[Valerie Denton]

You have your surgical kit with you?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, but. Paul.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, please. I beg you.

[Boris Karloff]

All right. Close the door.

[Stephen Denton]

Well, well, it's good to be home again, Valerie. That hospital room was beginning to get me down.

[Valerie Denton]

It's going to be even better once the bandages are taken off.

[Stephen Denton]

Yes, just another week. That's what Wade said. Oh, he's a good doctor, Valeria.

[Boris Karloff]

I like him.

[Valerie Denton]

I'm glad.

[Stephen Denton]

Imagine being able to see again after all these weeks of darkness.

[Boris Karloff]

I've never liked the dark.

[Stephen Denton]

Why, it will be like coming into a new world.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes.

[Stephen Denton]

Tell me, what sort of an operation was it?

[Valerie Denton]

Well, I don't know.

[Stephen Denton]

You sound like you're trying to hide something.

[Valerie Denton]

Don't be silly, Stephen. Oh, that Must be Paul. Dr. Wade. No, I'd better let him in. Stephen, I think Jenny's in bed.

[Boris Karloff]

Good evening, Mrs. Denton.

[Valerie Denton]

Good evening, Doctor.

[Boris Karloff]

Sorry I'm so late, but I had an emergency call.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, it's quite all right.

[Stephen Denton]

Hello, Doctor.

[Boris Karloff]

Well, how is the patient?

[Stephen Denton]

Oh, fine, fine, thank you. And anxious to get these bandages off.

[Boris Karloff]

Patience is a virtue. Yes, but blindness is a curse.

[Valerie Denton]

Don't be so morbid, Stephen. You're very lucky.

[Stephen Denton]

Yes, I know I am. It's a warm night, isn't it, Doctor?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, a lovely night. Stars and a new moon.

[Stephen Denton]

They say a new moon's a good omen if you look at it over your left shoulder. Did you know I was superstitious, Doctor?

[Boris Karloff]

Well, I guess we all are in one way or another. Yes.

[Stephen Denton]

Oh, would it be all right if we took a short walk in the garden while Valerie makes some coffee? That is, if you have the time, Doctor.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, plenty of time.

[Valerie Denton]

Well, can't I come along?

[Stephen Denton]

Oh, no, this is a stag party.

[Boris Karloff]

You. You.

[Stephen Denton]

You fix some coffee for us like a good girl, and we'll be back shortly.

[Valerie Denton]

All right.

[Stephen Denton]

Here, we can go out through the terrace.

[Boris Karloff]

Here, let me take your arm. Thank you, Doctor.

[Stephen Denton]

What a gorgeous night.

[Boris Karloff]

Yes, isn't it? See how the moon is? I. Oh, sorry, old fellow. I forgot for a moment.

[Stephen Denton]

That's all right. I'll be seeing it soon enough, thanks to you. Now you're seeing it for me. Over my left shoulder, I hope.

[Boris Karloff]

Why, no, it's the right one.

[Stephen Denton]

That's bad luck. Oh, but you couldn't possibly bring me bad luck, Dr. Wade. Not after giving me back my sight. You'll never know what you've done for me. No, no, you can't possibly know how much it was because you're not in love with Valerie. Valerie is my life, Doctor. So young, so beautiful. Without eyes. How can I see her beauty? I'm getting on in years, you know. And There'd be very little left for me if I couldn't look at Valerie and see the warmth of a smile. I don't expect you to understand that. Nobody can understand it except the one who's in love.

[Boris Karloff]

Perhaps you're right. It must be very pleasant to see with the eyes of love. Even though the eyes. Ah. Borrowed.

[Stephen Denton]

Borrowed.

[Boris Karloff]

What do you mean? Nothing. Nothing, really.

[Stephen Denton]

That's not the truth, Doctor.

[Boris Karloff]

Shall we keep walking?

[Stephen Denton]

No, no. I want you to explain what you meant when you said my eyes are borrowed. It had something to do with the operation you performed, did it not?

[Boris Karloff]

Now, look, I won't be put off.

[Stephen Denton]

I told you I was superstitious.

[Boris Karloff]

Give me back my eyes.

[Stephen Denton]

Who said that? Dr. Wade.

[Boris Karloff]

Who said what? Give me back my eyes. There.

[Stephen Denton]

A strange voice.

[Boris Karloff]

I didn't hear anything.

[Stephen Denton]

Yes. Yes, I heard a voice saying, give.

[Valerie Denton]

Me back my eyes.

[Boris Karloff]

Give me back my eyes.

[Valerie Denton]

There.

[Stephen Denton]

There it is again, Doctor.

[Boris Karloff]

Oh, for the love of heaven.

[Stephen Denton]

Whose voice is it?

[Valerie Denton]

Tell me.

[Boris Karloff]

Tell me.

[Stephen Denton]

I'm blind. I can't see.

[Boris Karloff]

I think perhaps we'd better go in.

[Stephen Denton]

No, no, no. I tell you, I heard a voice.

[Boris Karloff]

But your fire has now come.

[Valerie Denton]

But I.

[Stephen Denton]

All right, I. I can't understand it. I swear I heard a strange. Not a hollow voice.

[Boris Karloff]

There was no voice. At least none that I heard. Here we are. Step up. That's fine.

[Valerie Denton]

Back so soon?

[Boris Karloff]

I think you'd better go right to bed, Mr. Denton. You're tired and unnerved.

[Peter Lorre]

Yes.

[Stephen Denton]

Yes, I will.

[Valerie Denton]

Sophie'll be ready in just a few minutes.

[Stephen Denton]

Oh, I. I think I'll retire.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Is something wrong? Stephen?

[Boris Karloff]

He's tired.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh. Oh, here, let me help you.

[Stephen Denton]

No, no, don't bother, please. I can find my own way. You stay with Dr. Wei. Doctor, are you sure we didn't hear?

[Boris Karloff]

I'm positive. I see.

[Stephen Denton]

Well, good night.

[Boris Karloff]

Good night.

[Valerie Denton]

I'll be in shortly, Stephen.

[Stephen Denton]

All right.

[Valerie Denton]

What happened, Paul?

[Boris Karloff]

I'd rather not discuss it.

[Valerie Denton]

Please, you must tell me.

[Boris Karloff]

Well, it's something I've been worried about.

[Valerie Denton]

What do you mean?

[Boris Karloff]

I haven't brought this up before because I was hoping against hope that the thing I feared was not true.

[Valerie Denton]

Paul, you don't have to hide anything from me. Is something wrong with Stephen?

[Boris Karloff]

I'm afraid so. I'm afraid the explosion injured his brain as well as his eyes. It isn't going to be easy to take.

[Valerie Denton]

Valerie, what happened in the garden?

[Boris Karloff]

He said he heard a strange voice saying, give me back my eyes. Oh, I shouldn't be telling you this, Valerie. You're Trembling.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, I'm thinking of that Hindu Chandra. You said he was a mystic especially. Do you think it's possible that. Oh, no, it couldn't be.

[Boris Karloff]

No, Valerie, I'm afraid Stephen's brain has been affected. And the horrible part of it is that I'm convinced the complete insanity will set in eventually.

[Valerie Denton]

Stephen.

[Stephen Denton]

I heard what you said, Doctor.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, Stephen.

[Stephen Denton]

It's all right, dear.

[Boris Karloff]

Stephen, darling, come back into the bedroom. Mr. Denton, I want to talk with you. No, Valerie, you stay out here. Or better yet, go and get me some hot water.

[Valerie Denton]

Hot water?

[Boris Karloff]

Yes. I think I'll change these bandages. And I want the water boiled, so watch it for at least six minutes.

[Valerie Denton]

Very well. I'll go to the kitchen now, Mr.

[Boris Karloff]

Denton, shall we go into your room?

[Stephen Denton]

It's no use, Dr. Wade.

[Boris Karloff]

Let me guide you there. That's fine.

[Stephen Denton]

I know you're trying to cheer me up, but I tell you it's no use. Dr. Wade, I understand. I'm going mad.

[Boris Karloff]

I'm sorry. You overheard. After all, I could be wrong. Although.

[Stephen Denton]

Although you know it's true.

[Boris Karloff]

I may as well be Frank with you, Mr. Denton. Give me back my life.

[Stephen Denton]

That voice. I tell you, Doctor, I keep hearing that voice.

[Boris Karloff]

Your imagination is working overtime now. I'll get you a sedative. Mallory. Oh. Oh, here you are. I thought you were in the kitchen getting some water for me.

[Valerie Denton]

No, I didn't go. You didn't fool me asking for hot water.

[Boris Karloff]

Fool you? I'm afraid I don't understand.

[Valerie Denton]

You monster. You horrible monster.

[Boris Karloff]

What are you talking about?

[Valerie Denton]

Get away from that door. Let me go into my husband. Let me tell him.

[Boris Karloff]

Just a moment.

[Valerie Denton]

Now put your hand off me. Let me go. I should have known right from the beginning that I trusted you.

[Boris Karloff]

Had faith in me, Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Upholding me make my skin crawl.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie, I demand an explanation.

[Valerie Denton]

You'll get it. All the explanation you want. I suspected something wrong when you sent me for hot water. That was just to get rid of me, get me out of the way for six minutes. But I didn't leave this front room.

[Boris Karloff]

Now, listen.

[Valerie Denton]

I did. Listen. Bedroom door didn't quite latch. I saw what you did. He couldn't see you because his poor eyes are bandaged. He's blind. But I saw your lips move and I heard you say the words, give me back my eyes.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie, Will you please let me.

[Valerie Denton]

If you don't get your hands on me. You unspeakable monster. Trying to drive Stephen mad. Playing on his superstitions, his fear of the dark, of the unknown. To Turn him into a raving maniac.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie, be quiet.

[Valerie Denton]

Quiet. Why you filthy. Desperately. What was that? Stephen.

[Stephen Denton]

Stephen.

[Valerie Denton]

He shot himself. He dead.

[Boris Karloff]

Oh.

[Valerie Denton]

Oh, Stephen.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie.

[Valerie Denton]

Go away. Go away.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie, it was all for the best. Let me talk to you, Valerie. I can explain everything.

[Valerie Denton]

You murdered him.

[Boris Karloff]

I did it for you, darling. For us. Come into the living room and let me explain.

[Valerie Denton]

You murdered him just as if you'd held that gun to his head and pulled the trigger yourself.

[Boris Karloff]

Please, darling.

[Valerie Denton]

Leave me alone.

[Boris Karloff]

Mallory, believe me. I did it to free you from a man who didn't deserve you. I did it so that you could know happiness with me. You're young, Mallory. You have years ahead of you. You're entitled to everything in life. You understand? Come into the living room. There, that's it. We are going to be so happy together. Let me close the door and shut out the last memory of what has gone before. Now our life is before us. Here, sit down.

[Valerie Denton]

My head. Paul, I have a terrible headache.

[Boris Karloff]

I'll get you some aspirin. Where is it?

[Valerie Denton]

In Stephen's laboratory. I'll get it.

[Boris Karloff]

Let me help you. There.

[Valerie Denton]

I think it's on the middle shelf. Turn the light on, Paul. The switch is on the right.

[Boris Karloff]

I have it. Let me get the aspirin for you.

[Valerie Denton]

I can find them more easily.

[Boris Karloff]

I've been thinking, Valerie. After this is all over, we are going away on a trip. Perhaps somewhere off in the mountains or. You've got the wrong bottle, dear. That's not the aspirin.

[Valerie Denton]

No, it's one of Stephen's chemicals. It's acid, Paul. Sulfuric acid.

[Boris Karloff]

Valerie, put it back on the shelf. That stuff will burn.

[Valerie Denton]

No, Paul, no. You cold blooded murderer. You're going to know what Stephen knew before you forced him to take his life. You're going to know what it is to walk in darkness, Valerie. Whatever. Down my eyes.

[Peter Lorre]

There, my friend, is a young lady who takes literally the old adage, an eye for an eye. Thank you, Boris, Carlo and Cast for keeping our growing reputation for horror quite intact. And now, ladies and gentlemen, if you'll find. Follow me please. I want you to visit the Green Room. The players are rehearsing our next performance. Come, come, come.

[Boris Karloff]

Watson. What do you know about this man Damie Damery? Damie what Dam? Lord Damie, of course. Had his photograph in all the society weeklies. Well, naturally, the fellow's a household word in society. Yes, he's a man of the world with a natural turn that appears. And he's asked me for a 4:30 appointment which I've granted. You mean that lord dame is coming here?

[Stephen Denton]

But it's 4:30 now.

[Valerie Denton]

Look at the message.

[Boris Karloff]

Oh, yes.

[Peter Lorre]

Sherlock Holmes and the elementary Dr. Watson, played by Basil Rathbone and Nigel Bruce, respectively, will appear in our next tale of mystery. This is Peter Laurie closing the doors of the Mystery Playhouse. Good night. Sleep tight.

[Boris Karloff]

This is the Armed Forces Radio Service. Sam.