Radio City Playhouse 48-07-17 (03) Of Unsound Mind

Summary

Podcast Summary: Radio City Playhouse 48-07-17 (03) Of Unsound Mind

Introduction Radio City Playhouse presents classic radio dramas from the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of pre-television entertainment where families gathered around the radio to enjoy captivating stories. In the episode titled "Of Unsound Mind", aired on July 4, 2025, listeners are immersed in a gripping tale of marital strife, deception, and psychological turmoil. Written and directed by Harry W. Duncan, this third attraction of the series features stellar performances by Gene Tatum as Myra Hunt, Casey Allen as Caleb Hunt, and Phil Sterling as Jeff Benson.

Characters and Setting

• Myra Hunt (Gene Tatum): A distressed wife struggling with her husband's alleged insanity.
• Caleb Hunt (Casey Allen): Myra's husband, recently discharged from the Air Force after treatment at Windy Hill Psychiatric Hospital.
• Jeff Benson (Phil Sterling): A friend or confidant attempting to mediate between Myra and Caleb.
• Dr. Hamilton: A leading psychiatrist responsible for Caleb's treatment.

The story unfolds primarily in the Hunt household and a local diner, painting a vivid picture of mid-20th-century domestic life.

Plot Overview

1. Marital Tension and Desire for Separation The episode opens with Myra Hunt expressing her intent to leave her husband, Caleb, whom she believes to be insane. At [01:04], Myra declares to Jeff Benson, "I tell you, Jeff, I won't do it. I won't live with a man who's insane." Jeff counters her concerns, arguing Caleb's sanity and emphasizing their tarnished reputations in town.

2. Caleb's Return and Dr. Hamilton's Assurance Caleb has recently been discharged from Windy Hill after four years in the Air Force and two years in psychiatric care. Dr. Hamilton assures Myra that Caleb is cured, with only minor lingering fears of fire and traffic ([02:10]-[02:58]). Myra is skeptical, yearning for normalcy and happiness, while Jeff remains supportive of maintaining social appearances.

3. Attempt to Reinstate Normalcy Myra plans a motor trip to New York as a "second honeymoon" to help Caleb adjust to life back home ([03:31]-[04:06]). Despite Dr. Hamilton's warnings against driving, Caleb insists he's fine, leading to tension as Myra frantically tries to secure train tickets to expedite their return to Baltimore.

4. Deception at the Diner Myra orchestrates a scenario at the local diner to manipulate Caleb and test his sanity. By misleading the waiter and altering their orders, she aims to reveal any instability in Caleb's behavior. This act of deception escalates the emotional strain between them, culminating in public embarrassment and heightened distrust ([08:16]-[10:08]).

5. The Pawn Shop Confrontation A pivotal moment arises when Myra confronts Caleb about a missing watch, claiming to have seen it at the Royal Pawn Shop. Caleb vehemently denies pawning the watch, leading to accusations of deceit and further unraveling of their relationship. Myra's insistence forces Caleb to question his own actions and sanity ([12:00]-[12:43]).

6. Jeff Benson's Intervention Jeff Benson arrives intent on addressing the escalating conflict. He criticizes Myra's manipulative tactics, expressing his disapproval of her actions towards Caleb. Myra, however, remains steadfast in her determination to rid herself of Caleb's perceived insanity, leading to a confrontation that threatens their friendship ([13:05]-[20:53]).

7. Climactic Breakdown and Resolution The tension reaches its peak as Caleb confronts Myra about her actions, accusing her of driving him to madness. In a moment of heightened emotion, Caleb declares his intent to leave and even threatens violence, revealing the depth of his psychological distress. Myra pleads for understanding, culminating in a tragic realization of their irreparable rift ([24:16]-[25:46]).

Key Interactions and Conflicts

• Myra vs. Jeff ([01:04]-[01:22]): Myra's frustration with Caleb's supposed insanity clashes with Jeff's insistence on maintaining social appearances, highlighting the societal pressures of the time.

• Caleb vs. Myra ([05:25]-[10:04]): The couple's interactions at the diner expose underlying tensions and mistrust, serving as a catalyst for the unfolding drama.

• Jeff vs. Myra ([13:33]-[20:53]): Jeff's moral stance against Myra's manipulative behavior introduces a secondary layer of conflict, questioning the boundaries of friendship and loyalty.

Notable Quotes

• Myra Hunt: "I tell you, Jeff, I won't do it. I won't live with a man who's insane." [01:04]

• Jeff Benson: "He isn't insane. You're married to him. And you will live with him for a while at any rate." [01:07]

• Caleb Hunt: "Why shouldn't we stay in New York and have some fun?" [06:25]

• Myra Hunt: "I feel personally responsible for the accident." [06:09]

• Caleb Hunt: "Like a maniac." [07:45]

• Myra Hunt: "I'm malignant." [Potential paraphrase from context]

• Caleb Hunt: "Insane men always murder the defenseless woman in bed." [24:37]

• Myra Hunt: "You are mad. You are crazy." [22:14]

Themes and Insights

"Of Unsound Mind" delves into themes of mental health stigma, marital discord, and the lengths to which individuals will go to preserve societal facades. The narrative underscores the fragility of trust within relationships and the devastating impact of manipulation and misunderstanding. Through the characters' interactions, the play critiques societal expectations of mental well-being and the often-overlooked complexities of psychological struggles.

Conclusion

In this compelling installment of Radio City Playhouse, Harry W. Duncan masterfully weaves a tale that resonates with timeless human emotions and conflicts. Gene Tatum's portrayal of Myra Hunt captures the anguish of a woman torn between love and sanity, while Casey Allen's Caleb embodies the tragic figure battling inner demons. Phil Sterling's Jeff Benson serves as the voice of reason amidst chaos. "Of Unsound Mind" not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect on the intricate dynamics of mental health and personal relationships during the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[Caleb Hunt]

The National Broadcasting Company presents Radio city playhouse. Attraction 3 of unsound mind stars the lovely and talented young American actress Jean Tatum as Myra. The script was written by Harry W. Duncan, who also directs the production. Here is Radio City Playhouse, Attraction three of Unsound Mind.

[Myra Hunt]

I tell you, Jeff, I won't do it. I won't live with a man who's insane.

[Jeff Benson]

He isn't insane. You're married to him. And you will live with him for a while at any rate.

[Myra Hunt]

Can't I tell you? I can't. I. I can't bear living with him any longer.

[Jeff Benson]

Our reputations in this town are pretty well shot. Myra, if you leave Caleb now, I'm afraid.

[Myra Hunt]

Care about public opinion?

[Jeff Benson]

Well, I do. It means my bread and butter.

[Myra Hunt]

Justice D. Makes me.

[Jeff Benson]

Now, look, he's been four years in the Air Force. Two years in this nut house. Now he's cured. For six years you've been spending his money and having yourself quite a happy time with it. Well, now you're going to turn into a sweet, devoted little Baltimore housewife. You'll go to Windy Hill and get him. And you'll bring him home and live with him.

[Myra Hunt]

But, Jeff, he's crazy.

[Jeff Benson]

He's nothing of the sort. If Dr. Hamilton wouldn't let him come home. And Hamilton's one of the leading psychiatric men on the continent.

[Myra Hunt]

Yes, I can. I can't stand it, that's all. I can't live with a man that's insane.

[Jeff Benson]

He's not insane. And you'll go up to Windy Hill and get him.

[Myra Hunt]

Dr. Hamilton, before I take Caleb home from here, is there anything else I should know?

[Dr. Hamilton]

I don't think so. He's completely cured. Just be kind to him, that's all.

[Myra Hunt]

Oh, I will. I will. I've waited so long for this day. I've been pretty lonely.

[Dr. Hamilton]

Dr. Hamilton, I'm sure you have. Caleb's a fine man.

[Myra Hunt]

There's no danger of a relapse.

[Dr. Hamilton]

It's so remote, Mrs. Hunt, that I'd say there's no danger at all. Two or three things still bother him. Fire, for instance, and traffic. He shouldn't drive a car for a few months.

[Myra Hunt]

We've planned a little motor trip to New York. Shouldn't I let him drive?

[Dr. Hamilton]

No. Positively no driving. If he got excited or if something startled him, he might freeze to the wheel. Just try to keep him as relaxed as possible, mentally and physically.

[Myra Hunt]

Yes, of course I will. Tell me, Dr. Hamilton, just what did you do to Caleb? Did you fix him up?

[Dr. Hamilton]

We've done a great deal, Mrs. Hunt? We put a tantalum plate in his head. You see, when his plane crashed, the wound in his head resulted in an actual breakdown of brain tissue. That part has healed. Now he needs some rest and a lot of happiness. And you?

[Myra Hunt]

Does it hurt this place, then?

[Dr. Hamilton]

Not a bit.

[Myra Hunt]

And he is cured?

[Dr. Hamilton]

Oh, completely.

[Myra Hunt]

We owe you a great deal, Dr. Hamilton.

[Dr. Hamilton]

Nonsense, my dear. Nonsense. Oh, tell me, what are your plans?

[Myra Hunt]

Plans?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes.

[Dr. Hamilton]

Where will you live?

[Myra Hunt]

Right here in Baltimore. We're driving to New York. Sort of a second honeymoon.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, I see.

[Myra Hunt]

Then we'll come back here.

[Jeff Benson]

Good trip?

[Dr. Hamilton]

We're doing good. Let him make the decisions where to eat and what to do. You know, It'll give him confidence in himself.

[Myra Hunt]

Oh, I'll do everything I can.

[Caleb Hunt]

Good.

[Dr. Hamilton]

And now you better go and find him. He's waiting for you in the reception room on the first floor. I've already said my goodbyes to him. So go on your motor trip to New York and never think of Windy Hill again.

[Myra Hunt]

You all right, Caleb?

[Caleb Hunt]

Fine.

[Myra Hunt]

I hope you didn't mind my suggesting you draw. Really, I was exhausted.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, no, I'm fine. It's good for me. I've got to get over these crazy notions.

[Myra Hunt]

We just said. Dr. Hamilton said that you shouldn't do any driving. I should never have suggested it. I don't know how.

[Caleb Hunt]

Forget it. I'm fine, really.

[Myra Hunt]

Don't go too fast.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, relax, Myra. I'm fine.

[Myra Hunt]

Kevin. Look out, Kevin. Myra, take your hands off the wheel. Hello, Penn Station. Parlor car reservations, please.

[Caleb Hunt]

Who on earth are you phoning at 7 o' clock in the morning?

[Myra Hunt]

Parlor car reservation. This is Mrs. Caleb Hunt, roommate. 15 Waldorf Astoria. Could I possibly get two chairs and a parlor car to Baltimore this morning?

[Caleb Hunt]

Myra, what are you doing, darling?

[Myra Hunt]

I can't hear you. Yes. To Baltimore. Yes. My husband isn't well and I want to get him home as quickly as possible.

[Jeff Benson]

What do you mean?

[Caleb Hunt]

I'm not well.

[Myra Hunt]

What time does it leave? Oh, well, how about 11:30? Ira, that's very kind of you. Could we pick them up at the station?

[Caleb Hunt]

Ira, for goodness sake.

[Myra Hunt]

Thank you very much. Hunt. That's right, Ira. Ch. 8. 15. Waldorf Astoria. That's right. Thank you very much.

[Caleb Hunt]

Myra. I don't want to go home.

[Myra Hunt]

Darling, go back to sleep. You need to get up for an hour yet.

[Caleb Hunt]

There's nothing the matter with me, and this is simply ridiculous. Why shouldn't we stay in New York and have some fun? After all, neither of us was hurt.

[Myra Hunt]

We might have been, Caleb. And an accident like that. Well, such a shock to your nerves.

[Caleb Hunt]

A shock to yours, too, isn't it?

[Myra Hunt]

Not the same thing, Caleb. After all, you've been ill. Very ill.

[Caleb Hunt]

Nonsense.

[Myra Hunt]

It isn't nonsense at all. I just want to take care of you, that's all.

[Caleb Hunt]

I don't need taking care of for your own good. Darling, there's nothing the matter with me, I tell you.

[Myra Hunt]

We do have to be careful, though.

[Caleb Hunt]

But you don't have to whisk me back to Baltimore after one day in New York. Why, we haven't seen a thing yet. Anyhow, how will we get the car back? It'll take him at least a week to fix it.

[Myra Hunt]

The car isn't as important to me as you are, darling.

[Caleb Hunt]

Well, I'm not going.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb. Honey, I love you so much that I'd never forgive myself if anything happened to you. I should never have let you drive. I feel personally responsible for the accident.

[Caleb Hunt]

If you kept your hands off the wheel, we wouldn't have had the accident.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, I'm sorry, Myra. I just wish you'd stop worrying about me.

[Myra Hunt]

I'm not worrying about you, Caleb. I want to go home.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, all right. I'll go pick up the tickets myself. What time does the train go?

[Myra Hunt]

Every hour on the half hour. And we've chairs on the one at 11:30. Waiter. Are you sure you understand what you're supposed to do?

[Caleb Hunt]

What, but not why?

[Myra Hunt]

My husband isn't well, and I want to bring that home to him. I want him to realize that he's not normal. You see, he won't listen to me.

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. My husband is back in the chair car. I'm going back now to get him. We'll be coming back to the diner in a few moments for lunch. You're to watch for us and to be sure it's you who serves us. Is that clear?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. Isn't $50 enough?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. You handle it properly, I'll give you 50 more. After all, for $100, you shouldn't be too fucking.

[Dr. Hamilton]

No, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. And don't let him write out his order. You understand that?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, ma'.

[Jeff Benson]

Am.

[Myra Hunt]

Let me look at the menu. You'll probably have the chicken, so bring him something else. Anything else, so long as you bring him something different to what he ordered. You understand?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. All right. We'll be back in a few moments. Caleb, I've been up to the diner. There's a lineup. But I explained the situation to the waiter and he said he'd Seat us. Right away.

[Caleb Hunt]

What situation?

[Myra Hunt]

It's time for lunch, Caleb.

[Caleb Hunt]

What situation?

[Myra Hunt]

Lunch, darling. Come along. The diner's this way.

[Caleb Hunt]

You said you'd explained the situation to the waiter. What situation was that?

[Myra Hunt]

We were hungry.

[Caleb Hunt]

Was being hungry a situation?

[Myra Hunt]

I merely said you weren't awfully well, that's all. Now, what's wrong with that? Would you prefer to stand in line for an hour?

[Caleb Hunt]

Okay, darling, let's eat.

[Myra Hunt]

Waiter, Here we are. Pardon. Get out of five, please. Thank you. Excuse me. Come, Caleb. Pardon. Thank you. There we are. Now, you sit down there, Caleb. You shouldn't ride with your back to the engine.

[Caleb Hunt]

I'll hold your chair.

[Myra Hunt]

Nonsense, darling. Sit down there. Excellent. Now, isn't that comfortable? And better than standing on line.

[Caleb Hunt]

I'd feel better in line than on a leash, Myra. Caleb, you drag me along like a little lap dog.

[Myra Hunt]

That's a very cruel thing to say, Caleb.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, all right. I'm sorry. Let's order.

[Myra Hunt]

Waiter. No, not you, the other man.

[Caleb Hunt]

What difference does it make, Caleb?

[Myra Hunt]

I gave him a tip to get us to his table. He might as well serve his.

[Caleb Hunt]

Good day, ma'. Am. What'll you have, Myra? You got a pencil? Waiter? I beg your pardon, sir. Don't we have to write our orders out?

[Myra Hunt]

I.

[Caleb Hunt]

It's all right, sir. I'll take it down. What'll it be, Myra? Chilled. Consummate. Very nice, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. All right. Lamb chop and mayonnaise, Potatoes. Small salad. And I guess the ice cream cake. Coffee, ma'? Am? Thank you.

[Caleb Hunt]

And for you, sir? I'll have the chicken. No, no, I. I think I'll have the roast lamb. Is it nice?

[Myra Hunt]

Very nice, sir.

[Caleb Hunt]

All right, Roast lamb. No soup. Green peas, Mashed potatoes. Ice cream. Coffee? Thank you, sir. Lamb chops are for you, ma'.

[Myra Hunt]

Am. Thank you.

[Caleb Hunt]

And chicken for you, sir. No, I ordered the lamb. Roast lamb.

[Myra Hunt]

No, it's chicken, darling.

[Caleb Hunt]

No roast lamb. Will you change it, please? I have chicken on my slip, sir.

[Myra Hunt]

It was chicken, darling. You said chicken.

[Caleb Hunt]

I said roast lamb. And I don't care what you've got on your slip. I want roast lamb. Now get it. Yes, sir. Right away, sir.

[Myra Hunt]

It was chicken, darling.

[Caleb Hunt]

It was not chicken, darling.

[Myra Hunt]

People are looking at us.

[Caleb Hunt]

I ordered roast lamb.

[Myra Hunt]

All right. You're all right.

[Caleb Hunt]

Why do you say all right, dear, like that? You know perfectly well I ordered the roast lamb.

[Myra Hunt]

Let's not get excited.

[Caleb Hunt]

I'm not excited, but you persist in treating me as though I were feeble minded.

[Myra Hunt]

I suppose as a pawn broker, you make quite a lot of money.

[Caleb Hunt]

Yeah, I do all right. Baltimore is a good town for pawnbrokers.

[Myra Hunt]

Well, I guess that's all. You sure you understand what to do?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes, I know. Say, listen, lady, what are you up to?

[Myra Hunt]

That's none of your business. There's faith. $50 in it for you. Here's 25. I'll give you another 25 if you do it properly. Now, take a good look at his picture.

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes. Yes, I'll know him.

[Myra Hunt]

And then when he comes in, what do you say?

[Caleb Hunt]

I say, hello, mister. Back for your wristwatch? How's that?

[Myra Hunt]

You're not very convincing.

[Caleb Hunt]

Look, lady, I'm a pawnbroker, not an actor.

[Myra Hunt]

Try it once more.

[Caleb Hunt]

Okay. Hello, mister. Back to your wristwatch.

[Myra Hunt]

That's better. Here's the watch. Remember, you've never seen or heard of me. Remember, you've never seen or heard of me.

[Caleb Hunt]

Okay, I'm coming. Myra, did you forget your keys?

[Myra Hunt]

Yes.

[Caleb Hunt]

I was beginning to wonder where you were. You been shopping?

[Myra Hunt]

Yes.

[Caleb Hunt]

You buy anything exciting?

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, I'm very upset. Why did you pawn your watch?

[Caleb Hunt]

What?

[Myra Hunt]

Your watch, the one you lost. Why did you pawn it? Heaven knows. There's plenty of money. If you need any, you can go to the bank and get it.

[Caleb Hunt]

What are you talking about?

[Myra Hunt]

The watch you said you lost.

[Caleb Hunt]

What do you mean, said I lost? I did lose it. I left it on the wash basin when I washed my hands and it.

[Myra Hunt]

Just vanished into thin air.

[Caleb Hunt]

It wasn't there when I went back.

[Myra Hunt]

You think somebody stole it?

[Caleb Hunt]

I think it'll turn up somewhere around the house.

[Myra Hunt]

I saw it in a pawn shop this afternoon.

[Caleb Hunt]

In a pawn shop?

[Myra Hunt]

I went in and looked at it. It had your initials on the back.

[Caleb Hunt]

Well, then Mrs. Archibald must have taken it and pondered. I can't believe it. She's been with us for years.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, don't. I asked the man in the pawn shop. He described the man who brought it in and the description fitted you.

[Caleb Hunt]

Myra, I did not pawn that watch.

[Myra Hunt]

And somebody's lying somewhere.

[Caleb Hunt]

Who do you prefer to believe? Me or some character who runs a pawn shop? Are you implying that I pawned that watch without knowing it?

[Myra Hunt]

Darling. Darling. Caleb, I'm implying nothing. I'm sorry I mentioned it.

[Caleb Hunt]

What's the name of the pawn shop?

[Myra Hunt]

Darling, forget it. I shouldn't have told you about it.

[Caleb Hunt]

What's the name of that pawn shop? Myra, son.

[Myra Hunt]

The Royal Pawn Shop. Caleb, please don't go. It's no good. Caleb. I tell you, it's no good. You'll only upset yourself. Caleb, please. Did you see it?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes.

[Myra Hunt]

Was it yours?

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes.

[Myra Hunt]

Did you get it back? Did he say you'd brought it in? Yes, yes, yes. Now leave me alone. Leave me alone. Oh, really, Jeff. It was quite amusing. Poor Caleb. He was so befuddled.

[Jeff Benson]

I don't like it, Myron.

[Myra Hunt]

What do you mean?

[Jeff Benson]

I mean that I don't like it.

[Caleb Hunt]

It's a rotten trick.

[Myra Hunt]

Are you backing down?

[Jeff Benson]

No, but I don't like it.

[Myra Hunt]

Oh, don't be foolish, Jeff. We can't just go on like this. Somebody has got to do something. Put your cigarette out, Jeff. Well, darling, put your cigarette out. Kiss me. Oh, you're so strong, Jeff. So. So tough. I. Jeff, I love you. I love.

[Jeff Benson]

Kendall's flowers job.

[Myra Hunt]

You must have the wrong house. Mrs. Hunt? Yes, I'm Mrs. Hunt. Then they're for you, lady. All right. Thank you. Thanks, lady.

[Caleb Hunt]

Who was that?

[Myra Hunt]

Your flowers arrived.

[Caleb Hunt]

Flowers?

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, they're gorgeous. Oh, you were always wonderful at buying flowers.

[Caleb Hunt]

I didn't send you any flowers, Myra.

[Myra Hunt]

You didn't?

[Caleb Hunt]

There's a card with them. Let me see it.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, does it matter? Really? Does it?

[Caleb Hunt]

Let me see that card.

[Myra Hunt]

No, Caleb, please.

[Caleb Hunt]

Who are they addressed to?

[Myra Hunt]

Mrs. James C. Hunt.

[Caleb Hunt]

Mother? But, Myra, Mother's been dead for 15 years. How could I?

[Myra Hunt]

It doesn't matter, darling. They're lovely and we'll pretend they're for me.

[Caleb Hunt]

Let me see that card.

[Myra Hunt]

No, it doesn't matter. Please. Please, darling. Don't worry about it.

[Caleb Hunt]

I think I'd better lie down. Just lie down for a little while.

[Myra Hunt]

It was really very amusing, Jeff. He couldn't believe it. Flowers to his mother after all these years.

[Jeff Benson]

You're certainly not overburdened with conscience, are you?

[Myra Hunt]

I hate him, Jeff. Him and his calm, handsome, suffering. He's not like you. He's not tough, not strong. He wasn't so stupid he'd see through me. Really. The flowers stunned him. Addressed to his mother. She's been dead for years.

[Jeff Benson]

How's he taking it?

[Myra Hunt]

Just give me time, Mara.

[Jeff Benson]

I don't like it. It's too vicious, too cruel.

[Myra Hunt]

What's the matter with you, Jeff?

[Jeff Benson]

I don't like to see this in you. It's such a rotten trick.

[Myra Hunt]

Jeff.

[Caleb Hunt]

Yes?

[Myra Hunt]

Don't you love me?

[Jeff Benson]

You know I love you. That's why I hate to see you acting like this.

[Myra Hunt]

Put your arms around me, Jeff. That's better. Now, don't worry about Caleb. Just leave everything to me.

[Jeff Benson]

It's getting late, Myra. You better go. Somebody might see you leaving the apartment building. We've got to be very careful.

[Myra Hunt]

I don't understand you, Jeff. Well, maybe I'd better be going. We have a late night tomorrow night. Caleb and I are going to the theater show. Fun getting all dressed up, isn't it, Caleb?

[Caleb Hunt]

Now, where the heck are those tickets?

[Myra Hunt]

I put them in your pocket, darling.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh. Oh, yeah, yeah. Thank you. Tickets, please. Yeah, it is fun being in a white tie again. Oh, here you are.

[Myra Hunt]

Thank you, sir.

[Caleb Hunt]

Maybe after the show. Excuse me, sir. These tickets, they're. Yes?

[Myra Hunt]

They're for Friday the 22nd.

[Caleb Hunt]

That was last night, sir.

[Myra Hunt]

What?

[Caleb Hunt]

What are you talking about?

[Myra Hunt]

Oh, kids. There.

[Caleb Hunt]

For last night, sir. This is the 23rd. But that's impossible. I know they're for tonight. Here, here, let me see him.

[Myra Hunt]

What?

[Caleb Hunt]

Somebody's made a mistake. The box office gave me the wrong one.

[Myra Hunt]

Sorry, sir, you're holding up the line. If you'd like to talk to the.

[Caleb Hunt]

Manager, just to the right of the box office.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, wake up. Caleb.

[Caleb Hunt]

Hold on.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb. Mrs. Archibald gone. Her clothes, everything. She's left us. She's gone.

[Caleb Hunt]

What?

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, try to remember. You've done something this time. I'm afraid.

[Caleb Hunt]

Afraid of what? What are you talking about?

[Myra Hunt]

I got up this morning. Mrs. Archibald wasn't down. I went up to wake her. I thought she must have overslept. Her room was empty. The bed had been slept in. But she's gone. And then when I came downstairs again, I found your bedroom slippers in the hall covered with mudges.

[Caleb Hunt]

No.

[Myra Hunt]

No, Caleb, please try to remember. You were outside the house sometime during the night. Can't you remember anything?

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, Myra. Myra, I'm afraid.

[Myra Hunt]

Surely you couldn't get up out of bed and go outside without remembering something.

[Caleb Hunt]

I can't. I. I can't remember. Oh, Myra, I am so afraid.

[Myra Hunt]

You went to bed as soon as we got home from. From not going to the theater. You were asleep when I came up. Try to remember. I can't. You remember that it was writing when you went to bed?

[Caleb Hunt]

No.

[Myra Hunt]

You? Yes.

[Caleb Hunt]

I mean, I don't know.

[Myra Hunt]

I don't know what to say, Caleb.

[Caleb Hunt]

Myra?

[Myra Hunt]

Yeah?

[Caleb Hunt]

Do you think I ought to go back to Windy Hill? Oh, not for long. Maybe just for a month or so. All these things I've been doing. Mistakes I make every day I do something so hard on you. No, but I can't go on like this, darling.

[Myra Hunt]

Nothing has happened to Mrs. Archibald. I'll probably find her with a couple of phone calls. Oh, g. By had to wonder. Darling, you couldn't have hurt her very badly or she wouldn't have been able to pack all her clothes and leave. I'll find the McDougal's maid. She might.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, Marva, help me.

[Myra Hunt]

Marva, help me. You've no idea what it's like to be insane. Tonight's the night, Jeff.

[Jeff Benson]

Myra, you're liable to get your throat slit.

[Myra Hunt]

None.

[Jeff Benson]

Have you heard from the Archibald woman?

[Myra Hunt]

No. I simply said that Caleb couldn't stand her around the house another moment. Gave her 6 months salary and bought her a ticket for Oakland. Brotherly, sir.

[Jeff Benson]

All I can say, Myra, is that I hope you never get it in for me.

[Myra Hunt]

Don't be mean, Jeff.

[Jeff Benson]

I may as well tell you I don't like it.

[Myra Hunt]

You don't like it? How do you suppose I feel?

[Jeff Benson]

It's so horrible. He's so unsuspecting. He trusts you.

[Myra Hunt]

This is no time to go remorseful, Jeff. Anyway, after tonight, it'll be all over.

[Jeff Benson]

What are you going to do when he's asleep?

[Myra Hunt]

I'll put the knife in his hand and I'll tear my night dress and scream. He suggested twice that I let him go back to Windy Hill tonight. I'll finish him. I'll phone Dr. Hamilton as soon as they come for him. Come over. Probably need a drink anyway.

[Jeff Benson]

Myra, you can't do it.

[Myra Hunt]

I don't want to quarrel about it now, Jeff. It's tonight or never.

[Jeff Benson]

Then I'm pulling out.

[Myra Hunt]

What do you mean?

[Jeff Benson]

I mean I'm through.

[Myra Hunt]

Say that, Jeff. I'll phone you as soon as they've taken him away.

[Caleb Hunt]

Myra.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb. Don't kill me. Caleb. Caleb, put the night down. Look. Look into your hand.

[Caleb Hunt]

Oh, no.

[Myra Hunt]

Have you frightened me? Look in your eyes. No.

[Caleb Hunt]

Let go of me, Ira.

[Myra Hunt]

Let go of me. Let go of me. Caleb, stop. Caleb, come back. You can't go outside in your pajamas. Caleb. Caleb. Dr. Hamilton, please. Oh, he is? Well, will he call Mrs. Caleb Hunt the moment he comes in? Yes, it's very urgent. Yes, he has my number. Thank you.

[Jeff Benson]

Now, wait a minute, chum. You can't go romping around in pajamas through people's hedges.

[Caleb Hunt]

Let me go.

[Jeff Benson]

You're Caleb Hunter, aren't you?

[Caleb Hunt]

Let me go.

[Jeff Benson]

Look, I'm Jeff Benson. Remember me? Listen, if you go romping around through hedges in your pajamas, people will think you're crazy.

[Myra Hunt]

I am. I am crazy.

[Dr. Hamilton]

No, you're not.

[Jeff Benson]

It's Myra that's crazy.

[Myra Hunt]

Myra?

[Caleb Hunt]

How do you know Myra?

[Jeff Benson]

That's what's been bothering me, Caleb. That's why I came over here in the middle of the night. Look, you know I've got to have a good Long talk. My car's over there. Come back to my apartment, get me some clothes. I got a few things to tell you. You're not gonna like them much, but I'm gonna tell you anyway. That's the story, Caleb. It's pretty rotten. But it's true. Too filthy a trick for an apology. So I'm not going to say I'm sorry.

[Caleb Hunt]

Thanks for the clothes. I'm going now.

[Jeff Benson]

Where?

[Caleb Hunt]

Where do you think?

[Jeff Benson]

Look, Caleb, don't do anything that's that you'll be sorry for you. You won't, will you?

[Caleb Hunt]

What would you do in my place? Why? Well, I'm asking you, what would.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb? Caleb, is that you? Caleb? Caleb, is that you? Caleb? Caleb. Oh, Caleb, you had me so worried.

[Caleb Hunt]

Did I?

[Myra Hunt]

Rushing out of here like. Like.

[Caleb Hunt]

Like a maniac.

[Myra Hunt]

I was terribly upset.

[Caleb Hunt]

Were you? I'm touched, Myra. Deeply touched.

[Myra Hunt]

You've got to come to death.

[Caleb Hunt]

Jeff Benson gave me this jacket. Did you give it to him before I was reported missing or after?

[Myra Hunt]

What are you talking about?

[Caleb Hunt]

We had quite a chat, Benson and I. I got the whole story. Pawnbroker, florist, theater box office, Mrs. Archibald, the waiter on the train. Half the city must have been working for you, trying to put me back in Windy Hill. Incidentally, bent and sick of you. Took seven or eight drinks to make him realize just how sick. But right now he fairly shakes with nausea at the mere mention of your name.

[Myra Hunt]

I haven't the faintest idea what you're talking about.

[Caleb Hunt]

Why should you? I'm crazy.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, stop.

[Caleb Hunt]

I am. You've driven me crazy, Myra. Crazy?

[Myra Hunt]

You lay so much as a finger on me, I yell the house down.

[Caleb Hunt]

Go ahead, yell.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb, stop. Right.

[Caleb Hunt]

Don't get out of bed, Myra. Insane men always murder the defenseless woman in bed.

[Myra Hunt]

You are mad. You are crazy.

[Caleb Hunt]

Sure, crazy. You make a pretty picture, Myra, sitting up in bed with the sheets drawn demurely around you.

[Myra Hunt]

Caleb. It's not true, Caleb. I do love you. Really, I do. I love you very much. You know it.

[Caleb Hunt]

I'll choke you slowly, Myra. Insane men always do. And I am insane. I have the most wonderful alibi, too. You see, I'm crazy. You convinced everyone of that. So they'll just send me back to Windy Hill. That's all they can do to me.

[Myra Hunt]

Does that hurt? My life. Now get up. Get up, my pet.

[Caleb Hunt]

Hand.

[Myra Hunt]

Up. That's it.

[Caleb Hunt]

Wonderful what you can do when you try, isn't it, Myra?

[Jeff Benson]

Dirty little cramp.

[Myra Hunt]

Stop. Stop.

[Caleb Hunt]

I wouldn't kill you, Myra. I'm free.

[Myra Hunt]

I'm well.

[Caleb Hunt]

And I feel wonderful. I want you to live. I want you to live a long, long time with yourself all alone. You and your twisted, moldy little mind. Myra, I hope you live to be 90. You have just heard of unsound mind. Attraction three of Radio City Playhouse as written and directed by Harry W. Duncan. Gene Tatum was heard as Myra, Casey Allen as Caleb, and Phil Sterling as Jeff. The music was composed and conducted by Dr. Roy Shields. Radio City Playhouse is supervised for the National Broadcasting Company by Richard P. McDonough. As you notice tonight, that favorite program of yours, Grand Ole Opry, comes to you half an hour earlier during the summer months. So tune in one half hour earlier next week for Grand Old Operations. Then stay with us for Radio City Playhouse. Next week we present a comedy. A comedy which we hope will do more than just make you smile. We hope. In fact, we're almost sure it'll make you laugh. It's called Whistle, Daughter Whistle and is written by Ernest Kanoy. We sincerely hope you'll join us next Saturday for Whistle, Daughter Whistle. Next Saturday, Attraction 4, Radio City Playhouse. Bob Warren speaking. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.