Ma Perkins 38-06-02 (xxxx) Sonia Fades Out

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Ma Perkins 38-06-02 (xxxx) Sonia Fades Out

Episode Information:

• Title: Ma Perkins 38-06-02 (xxxx) Sonia Fades Out
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Release Date: April 18, 2025
• Description: This episode delves into the dramatic culmination of Gregor and Sonia Perkins' tumultuous relationship, set against the backdrop of suspense and emotional turmoil. As past betrayals come to light, the stakes become life-threatening, leading to a heart-wrenching conclusion.

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Episode Overview

"Ma Perkins," a staple of the Golden Age of Radio, continues to captivate listeners with its intricate portrayal of family dynamics and suspenseful storytelling. In this particular episode, titled "Sonia Fades Out," the narrative reaches a pivotal moment where long-held secrets and external threats collide, threatening the lives of the central characters.

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Main Storyline

The episode opens with Ma Perkins sharing a heartfelt letter from a listener, Mrs. Charles J. Richards, praising the effectiveness of Oxidol in household chores. This segment, while seemingly mundane, sets the stage for the ensuing drama by highlighting the everyday lives of the Perkins family.

At [03:39], the tension escalates as Gregor confronts Sonia after years of estrangement. Sonia reveals her enduring love for Gregor and the immense suffering she has endured due to past betrayals. The conversation takes a dark turn when a gunshot interrupts their reunion:

• [03:41] Sonia: "Fragar, she's been shot. Someone fired through that window."

The immediate aftermath is chaotic, with Sonia sustaining a gunshot wound. As Sonia and Gregor grapple with the unfolding crisis, the episode delves deep into their shared past and the sacrifices made:

• [07:49] Sonia: "I have to know about the baby. Our son. And that I tried so hard to undo the terrible thing that I did to you."

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Character Developments

Gregor Perkins: Present throughout the episode as a figure of resilience and love, Gregor's character is portrayed as deeply remorseful and desperate to mend his fractured relationship with Sonia. His unwavering commitment to his family is evident in his actions and dialogue.

Sonia Perkins: Sonia emerges as a tragic heroine, burdened by past mistakes and the dire consequences of those actions. Her determination to protect her son and her ultimate sacrifice underscore her strength and enduring love for Gregor.

Ma Perkins: As the narrator, Ma provides contextual insights and maintains the emotional continuity of the story, guiding listeners through the complexities of Gregor and Sonia's relationship.

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Key Moments

1. Revelation of Past Betrayals ([07:49] – [12:25]): Sonia discloses the harrowing truth about her actions, revealing that she intentionally delayed the secret police to allow Gregor to escape, a move that led to their son's captivity. This confession sheds light on the depth of her sacrifices and the true nature of their predicament.

   • [09:54] Sonia: "That night, Gregor, Sonia went to the headquarters of the secret police to delay them so you'd have time to escape."

2. Climactic Confrontation and Sacrifice ([03:39] – [14:56]): The emotional climax unfolds as Sonia is shot, leading to a poignant exchange between her and Gregor. Despite her injuries, she prioritizes Gregor's safety and their son's well-being over her own life.

   • [13:18] Gregor: "Sonia, I've always loved you."
   • [13:22] Sonia: "And you, you forgive me?"

3. Tragic Resolution ([14:48] – [15:17]): The episode concludes with the devastating loss of Sonia, leaving Gregor to grapple with the aftermath and the perilous situation concerning their son.

   • [14:47] Gregor: "Yes, Gregor."
   • [14:48] Ma Perkins: "Sonya is gone. The woman you thought betrayed you gave up her life for you and your son."

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Conclusion

"Sonia Fades Out" serves as a powerful narrative arc within the "Ma Perkins" series, encapsulating themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The episode masterfully intertwines personal turmoil with external threats, culminating in a heartrending resolution that leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the fate of Gregor and his son. As Ma Perkins poignantly closes the episode, she reflects on the sacrifices made and the lingering questions about the son's safety, setting the stage for future episodes filled with suspense and emotional depth.

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Notable Quotes:

• [07:49] Sonia: "I have to know about the baby. Our son."
• [09:54] Sonia: "That night, Sonia went to the headquarters of the secret police to delay them so you'd have time to escape."
• [13:18] Gregor: "Sonia, I've always loved you."
• [14:48] Ma Perkins: "Sonya is gone. The woman you thought betrayed you gave up her life for you and your son."

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Final Thoughts

This episode of "Ma Perkins" exemplifies the enduring appeal of radio dramas from the Golden Age, blending intricate storytelling with deep emotional resonance. Through its compelling characters and suspense-filled plot, it continues to engage audiences, offering a nostalgic yet timeless exploration of familial bonds and personal sacrifice.

Transcript

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[Ma Perkins]

America's Mother of the Air Oxidol Perkins. You know, Ma Perkins gets so many letters from her friends that it is simply impossible to read them all over the air. But every now and then we pick one up to read you a simple, straightforward letter, just as it was written from one woman to another, like the one from Mrs. Charles J. Richards of San Diego, California. She writes, I quote I just cannot put off writing to you any longer to let you know what I think of Oxtedal. I'm sure the announcer of Ma Perkins program really doesn't say enough nice things about Oxidol. I've been using Oxidol for about one year now and believe me, I found that there is nothing like it. My white clothes are so much whiter and I have no trouble at all with the shortcuts. Why, the dirt just soaks loose and my colored things seem to hold the colors better and are so bright. I timed my washing this morning. I started at 8 o'clock and had four washers full. By 9:10 my clothes were on the line and all my wash day worries were over for another week thanks to Oxidol. I also use Oxidol for cleaning my woodwork and bathroom and sink. Also for dishes. Ma Perkins Oxidol is more than just a soap. It's a Wonder Worker. Yes, Mrs. Richards, oxidol certainly is a wonder worker. You see, Oxidol was especially created to combine speed, safety and whiter washing qualities in a way no other single soap has ever done before. Oxidol is so fast and whitewashing and yet it's utterly safe. Safe for every washable color and fabric. You can actually feel the mildness of its suds. It won't hurt any normal skin. Leaves your hands as smooth and lovely as before. Make up your mind to try this amazing new granulated soap in your next big washing. Discover for yourself the way to extra hours of wash day leisure. All summer long Oxidol spelled O X Y D O L in the famous Orange and blue bullseye package. I'm sure you'll be delighted with the results it brings. And now for Ma Perkins. Yesterday, you remember, things came to a climax between Gregor and his wife, Sonia. Facing her for the first time in years, Gregor heard from her own lips how she loved him, how she had suffered for betraying him, and heard that his countrymen had been hunting him for years to take his life, and that now they hold his little son, that only by quick action can the child be saved. Gregor was strangely moved as Sonia flung herself into his arms, held him close to her, and then a bullet crashed through the window. Listen.

[Gregor]

Sonia. Sonia, my darling.

[Sonia]

Fragar, she's been shot. Someone fired through that window.

[Gregor]

Sonia.

[Unknown]

Sonia, it is all right. Let go.

[Gregor]

Bourgeois. Bourgeois.

[Unknown]

Oh, come quick.

[Sonia]

We lay on the couch here. Come, hurry.

[Gregor]

Now, come, my darling. So I pick you up very gently, very gently.

[Ma Perkins]

There.

[Unknown]

Gently, Gregor, gently. I cannot breathe so well. Oh, you poor dear.

[Sonia]

That's it, Gregor. Now right over here with this. Lay her down gently.

[Gregor]

Sonia, tell me that you're all right.

[Unknown]

I think so. But the pain, it's terrible.

[Gregor]

Oh, my sweet.

[Sonia]

Let me get that pill on your head here. That's it.

[Gregor]

There. Is that a little better?

[Unknown]

Oh, yes, it is better, but that. The pain, it hurts to talk.

[Gregor]

Of course, of course. Well, just be quiet. Don't. Don't move.

[Sonia]

You stay right there with her, Gregor, I. Phone the hospital for an ambulance and get Docstar.

[Gregor]

Oh, please hurry, Mrs. Perkins. If anything should happen to her now.

[Sonia]

Oh, they'll get here in a hurry. Just don't worry, Gregor.

[Unknown]

Nothing can happen. Gregor.

[Gregor]

No, it. It cannot, my darling, it can't.

[Sonia]

I pray to. I pray to. Give me the hospital as best as you can.

[Gregor]

Where are you hurt, Dushka? Tell me.

[Unknown]

In this heart here.

[Gregor]

Oh, I can see it. Oh, son, you forgive me. I believe you. I. I know now.

[Sonia]

Oh, for the namesake. Please hurry, Aberdeen.

[Gregor]

Oh, what a fool I've been.

[Unknown]

Oh, no, no, Gregor. It is I who have been the fool. Oh, it hurts to speak.

[Gregor]

Then don't speak, my darling. I don't try you. You rest a little.

[Unknown]

I will.

[Sonia]

Hello, this is Neddy Hospital. This is my Perkins Chocolate. There's somebody been badly hurt out at my house. I want you to send the evidence just as fast as you can. What? It's out. All right, but get that evidence here just as fast as possible. I tell you, it's life and death now.

[Gregor]

Your head.

[Unknown]

So, darling, just as years ago you.

[Sonia]

Think they'd ought to be there now. Well, then, for goodness they phone over there for him to get under way. All right. Call Dr. Stevens and have him hurry over here just as fast as he can. All right, now, hurry.

[Unknown]

Oh, she is so good, Mrs. Perkins.

[Gregor]

Yes, heart of gold. And I don't. Don't speak, my dear.

[Sonia]

How is Sonia?

[Gregor]

Oh, they're coming.

[Unknown]

Yes, yes.

[Sonia]

How do you feel, Sonia?

[Unknown]

I am more comfortable than Gregor.

[Sonia]

Move to now. I'm glad of that. And the pain, it is not so bad.

[Unknown]

But my eyes.

[Gregor]

What is it, my precious?

[Unknown]

Everything is a little misty.

[Gregor]

Oh, my poor dear.

[Sonia]

It'll be all right, Gregor. It's just got to be.

[Unknown]

I don't know. I think might not.

[Gregor]

Sonia, don't say that. You must be all right. Nothing must happen to you.

[Sonia]

Oh, no, indeed. We'll get the persons responsible for this if it's the last thing we ever do.

[Gregor]

Get them where?

[Unknown]

Gregor, I want to. To talk.

[Gregor]

No, my darling, please don't talk. Save your strength.

[Unknown]

No, no. I am afraid, and I want you to know everything.

[Gregor]

I do not have to know anything. Only that you will be well.

[Sonia]

Maybe. Maybe you'd better let her talk, Gregor.

[Gregor]

Oh, no, please, Mrs. Perkins, don't speak so. Don't try to.

[Unknown]

No, but I must. Gregor, you have to know about the baby. Our son. And that I tried so hard to undo the terrible thing that I did to you.

[Gregor]

Oh, what difference now?

[Unknown]

Difference? Oh. Oh, my eyes. The mist.

[Gregor]

Mrs. Perkins, she's hurt terribly.

[Sonia]

Oh, we don't know yet, Gregor.

[Gregor]

My Sonia. Mine again. You must not go. You hear me?

[Unknown]

It is no use, Gregor. I know that I am going.

[Sonia]

Oh, it's taken that Stevens and that embarrassment so long to get here.

[Gregor]

Sonia, you must live. You hear me? You must live so that we can be together and. And make up for these terrible years.

[Unknown]

Oh, Gregor, let me touch your face.

[Gregor]

Oh, my dear.

[Unknown]

Now. Now I want you to listen. Gregor, I must tell you.

[Sonia]

Let her talk, Gregor. It'll get her mind off of it.

[Gregor]

Yes, yes, go on. What is it, my sweet? You tell me.

[Unknown]

You know, I. I said I paid. Suffered. You remember? I remember the night your friend Igor Lensky warned you.

[Gregor]

Yes, the night he came to warn me.

[Unknown]

You always thought that I fled that night only because I had betrayed you, afraid to face you.

[Gregor]

Whatever reason made you go, it is all right. I have forgiven you everything.

[Unknown]

No, I went to delay.

[Gregor]

Oh, I wish you would not try and talk.

[Sonia]

Sonia. Let me tell him for you, will you, please?

[Unknown]

Not that.

[Sonia]

That night, Gregor, Sonia went to the headquarters of the secret police to delay them so you'd have Time to escape. You.

[Gregor]

You went to delay them so I would escape?

[Unknown]

Yes, my darling. That night I. I knew I loved you.

[Gregor]

That you loved me?

[Unknown]

Oh, yes, that I loved you better than life itself. Gregor.

[Gregor]

Oh, may heaven forgive me.

[Sonia]

And then, Gregor, them police, they found out that Sonia was delaying him.

[Gregor]

They found out?

[Unknown]

Yes. They were suspicious. They thought through everything when I delayed them.

[Gregor]

I see it now. They took our son from you. Is that what you meant when you said Vladimir and Nikolai have our boys?

[Sonia]

That did Gregor.

[Unknown]

And they are. They are holding him hostage.

[Sonia]

As a hostage until they get you.

[Gregor]

Oh, my dear. My poor Sonia.

[Sonia]

And Gregor. She ain't ever seen a little boy since he was five months old.

[Gregor]

Mrs. Perkins, if there was only something we could do for her.

[Sonia]

I know that ambulance and Dr. Stevens ought to be here any moment. There's nothing else we can do.

[Unknown]

I am all right, Gregory. Now. Now, listen.

[Gregor]

Yes, tell me, my darling, tell me.

[Unknown]

Our boy. I did not lie. I don't know where they're holding him. I only know he's alive. They have him.

[Sonia]

Sonia said that only Vladimir and Nikolai know where he is. Gregor.

[Unknown]

That is true. Gregor and I. I wanted to. To plan with you before.

[Gregor]

Oh, my dear. My dear. And you, Sonia, all these years, you've been searching for me.

[Unknown]

Yes. Vladimir and Nick Knight. They forced me to go with them.

[Sonia]

Oh, child, you hadn't said that.

[Gregor]

They forced you to go with them while they hunted for me.

[Unknown]

Yes. To make me pay still more.

[Gregor]

How, Sonia.

[Unknown]

But I was to lead you into a trap. It was either that or our boy's life.

[Sonia]

Oh, good Lord. A mercy.

[Unknown]

That's terrible.

[Gregor]

Either you let me into a trap, or it was our boy's life, huh?

[Unknown]

Yes.

[Sonia]

Mylene's baker. I see it now. I see it now.

[Gregor]

Yes, so do I. Mrs. Perkins. Vladimir and Nikolai, they are here. Sonia said that?

[Unknown]

Yes.

[Sonia]

And she said they knew of disappointment tonight. You thought that they trailed you, huh?

[Unknown]

Yes, of course.

[Gregor]

And you. Oh, my darling, you were always moving around this room, keeping between me and those windows, shielding me.

[Sonia]

Why, of course, Gregor.

[Gregor]

You. You sacrificed your life to save mine.

[Unknown]

And. And you, Gregor, you will go on to save our boy.

[Gregor]

Yes. Yes, I'll go on. Oh, that you should have to pay such a price.

[Unknown]

Why, I do not mind now, Gregor, so long as I know you, you love me always.

[Gregor]

Sonia, I've always loved you.

[Unknown]

And you, you forgive me?

[Gregor]

Forgive, my dear. Why, I loved you.

[Unknown]

Oh, Krikov. Gregor.

[Gregor]

Yes, Sonia.

[Unknown]

Everything is spinning. Whirling. Oh, kiss me, Gregor. Kiss me. Hold me close. Close her face.

[Gregor]

Oh, so close. I will hold you, my Sonia, So close. Sonia, do you hear me? Sonia.

[Unknown]

Gregor, she.

[Gregor]

Yes, Gregor.

[Ma Perkins]

Sonya is gone. The woman you thought betrayed you gave up her life for you and your son. And let us hope those last few moments with you, moments of reconciliation and renewed love, can erase the bitter years in her life and your own. And what of Gregor's son, held by the two men who have just killed Sonya?

[Gregor]

Will he.

[Ma Perkins]

Can he find some way to regain the child and escape? Be sure to listen tomorrow. Until then, this is Dick Wells saying goodbye. This program has come to you from Chicago. This is the National Broadcasting Company. This is WMAQ Chicago. It is now.

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