Podcast Summary: "Saint 1950-12-17 Simon Minds the Baby"

Overview In the December 17, 1950 episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Simon Minds the Baby," listeners are transported into the thrilling world of The Saint, portrayed by the legendary Vincent Price. This episode delves into the intricate life of Simon Templer, a modern-day Robin Hood, as he navigates personal turmoil and criminal undertakings. The narrative weaves together themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.

Plot Synopsis

A Call for Help The episode kicks off with Simon Templer receiving an urgent call from Joe Collins, an old acquaintance and upcoming fighter who appears visibly distressed.

• [01:58] Simon Templer: "Remember me, Joe? Sure I do. How are you, chap? It's been a long time."

Joe hints at a serious predicament, urging Simon to visit him at the gym immediately. Despite Simon's initial reluctance, his sense of duty compels him to respond.

The Mysterious Baby Upon reaching Joe's gym, Simon encounters Louie, Joe’s cab driver, who presents a sleeping baby named Donnie on Simon’s doorstep.

• [03:04] Simon Templer: "It's a baby."
• [03:45] Simon Templer: "Donnie. Donnie, how did you get here, Donnie?"

Simon decides to keep the baby safe, suspecting that there's more to this unexpected addition.

Investigating the Fight As the day progresses, Simon meets with Sam Chadwick, Joe's manager, to discuss the upcoming fight between Joe and Kid Fishell. Tensions rise when Sam subtly suggests that the fight might be compromised.

• [11:12] Simon Templer: "Does Joe Collins know that the Kid is not to be hurt?"
• [11:18] Alexander Fitz Alexander: "No, Mr. Templer, I refuse to be worried by you. The Kid will not be hurt."

Simon becomes suspicious of the fixed nature of the fight, especially after Alexander Fitz Alexander, Kid Fishell's manager, vehemently denies any foul play while his actions suggest otherwise.

Unveiling Betrayal Later, Louie informs Simon that Joe wants to speak urgently. In a heartfelt conversation, Joe confesses that he cannot win the fight because Kid Fishell has taken his son, Donnie.

• [14:27] Joe Collins: "I can't win this fight tonight, Saint."
• [14:37] Simon Templer: "Huh? Who's they, Joe?"

Joe reveals that Alexander Fitz Alexander orchestrated the abduction of his son to ensure his victory in the ring, intertwining personal loss with professional stakes.

Rescue Mission Determined to rescue Donnie, Simon teams up with Louie. They infiltrate the training camp above an arena where Kid Fishell is scheduled to fight Joe. Tensions escalate as they confront Alexander Fitz Alexander during the fight.

• [24:31] Alexander Fitz Alexander: "After what he did to the kid, do you think I care any more about anything?"
• [25:15] Alexander Fitz Alexander: "Why didn't you keep out, Mr. Templar?"

A physical confrontation ensues, culminating in Alexander's defeat and the safe return of Donnie.

Emotional Resolution With Donnie safe, Joe expresses his gratitude and reflects on the sacrifices made, including his estranged wife Marie’s role in protecting their son.

• [26:28] Joe Collins: "He'll be proud of his mother, too. After I tell him about her."
• [26:20] Joe Collins: "Something go wrong?"

Simon reassures Joe of his commitment to their friendship and the safety of his family, emphasizing the importance of trust and loyalty.

Notable Quotes

• [21:28] Simon Templer: "They? They go because this is an allegory of their own lives, Louie. They'll stop when their lives cease to be conflict and pain."

  Context: Reflecting on the nature of the crowd's obsession with violence and conflict, Simon philosophizes about human nature and societal behaviors.

• [25:29] Simon Templer: "You're a sick man."

  Context: Confronting Alexander Fitz Alexander, Simon denounces his unethical actions, highlighting the battle between good and evil.

• [26:17] Donnie: "Hi."

  Context: Donnie awakens after the rescue, symbolizing hope and the restoration of family bonds.

Character Dynamics

• Simon Templer (The Saint): The protagonist whose unwavering sense of justice drives the narrative. His interactions showcase his strategic mind and compassionate heart.

• Joe Collins: A fighter wrestling with personal demons, his desperation to win is rooted in the abduction of his son, adding depth to his character and motivations.

• Louie: Joe's loyal cab driver, providing support and aiding Simon in the rescue mission. His camaraderie with Simon underscores themes of friendship and loyalty.

• Alexander Fitz Alexander: The antagonist whose obsession with winning leads him to unethical decisions, representing the corrupting influence of power and ambition.

Themes and Insights

• Trust and Betrayal: The episode explores the fragile nature of trust, especially when personal stakes are high. Joe's initial distrust of Simon and his eventual reliance on him highlight the journey from suspicion to reliance.

• Parental Love and Sacrifice: Joe's determination to reclaim his son at all costs underscores the profound lengths a parent will go to protect their child.

• Moral Integrity vs. Corruption: Simon's steadfast moral compass contrasts sharply with Alexander's descent into unethical behavior, emphasizing the classic battle between good and evil.

• The Impact of Violence: Through the fixed fight and the crowd's ferocity, the episode comments on society's fascination with violence and the personal toll it takes on individuals.

Conclusion "Simon Minds the Baby" masterfully blends suspense, emotional depth, and moral dilemmas, offering listeners a captivating tale of heroism and redemption. Vincent Price's portrayal of The Saint brings a nuanced performance that balances strength with vulnerability, making this episode a standout in Harold's Old Time Radio collection.