The Chase 52-06-01 (06) Easy Riches, Sudden Death

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Chase 52-06-01 (06) Easy Riches, Sudden Death"

Release Date: June 27, 2025
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Title: The Chase 52-06-01 (06) Easy Riches, Sudden Death

---

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of "The Chase," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, immersing them in a suspense-filled adventure centered around a high-stakes salvage operation. The story unfolds aboard a ship named The Scarlets, where a group of dubious characters plot to recover a vast fortune buried beneath the ocean's depths.

---

Plot Overview

Setting the Stage
The episode opens with a bustling harbor scene, introducing the main characters: Eddie Monks (voiced by Joe DeSantis), Alfie (Kermit Murdoch), and Mac McRae (George Matthews). Eddie, a grizzled and mistrustful skipper, is approached by Alfie with an enticing proposal to join forces in salvaging 40 million dollars in gold bullion from the sunken Graf Essence off the coast of Honduras.

Key Quote:

• "In the animal world, there is the hunter and the hunted... The Chase may assume a multitude of forms, the disease is seldom more pernicious or acute than the eternal pursuit for easy riches and sudden death."
  (00:40)

Forming the Partnership
Despite Eddie's initial skepticism and abrasive demeanor, Alfie persuades him by presenting gold dust and a map leading to the treasure. Reluctantly, Eddie agrees to partner up, envisioning the wealth that could transform his fortunes.

Notable Interaction:

• Alfie: "How'd you like to be rich? I don't mean cheap rich, lousy rich. How'd you like say, 20 million bucks?"
  (03:31)
• Eddie: "Go away from me, you smoke, Kill your old jive dog."
  (03:38)

Assembling the Crew
To execute their plan, Alfie brings in Mac McRae, a seasoned diver, ensuring they have the necessary expertise to undertake the perilous dive. The trio discusses logistics, including renting a boat capable of reaching the wreck site and managing the hefty expenses required for the operation.

Strategizing the Salvage
As they set sail, tensions simmer beneath the surface. Eddie grapples with trust issues, while Alfie remains optimistic about the treasure. The crew works meticulously, preparing their diving gear and navigating towards Swan Island, the anticipated location of the Graf Essence.

Critical Moment:

• Alfie: "I've been waiting for a steak, that's all."
  (05:50)
• Eddie: "Six or seven grand? You say it like you find that kind of dough on top of seaweed."
  (06:04)

The Dive and Discovery
Upon reaching the dive site, Mac descends into the depths, uncovering a vast cache of gold bars nestled within a formidable underwater strongbox. The excitement among the crew peaks as they begin to haul the treasure aboard, marking a significant victory in their quest.

Triumphant Exclamation:

• Alfie: "A mountain of gold bar."
  (17:57)
• Eddie: "Millions."
  (17:58)

---

Rising Tensions and Betrayal

Mechanical Failures and Rising Suspicion
Amidst their success, the crew faces unexpected challenges. A mechanical failure cripples their vessel, leaving them adrift with the precious cargo. As hours pass, the strain exacerbates existing tensions, particularly between Eddie and Alfie.

Alarming Developments:

• Alfie: "It's a doom. It's back. It's the air coming out of back."
  (23:47)
• Eddie: "You cross me, you maniac."
  (27:09)

The Turning Point
Alfie, feeling cornered and desperate, takes drastic measures by opening the ship's portholes, forcing everyone to swim to safety. This act reveals his true intentions—to seize the gold for himself, betraying his partners and abandoning them to the treacherous waters.

Climactic Confrontation:

• Alfie: "Triple cross, Eddie. You cross Mac. I cross you."
  (27:11)
• Eddie: "40 million bucks to feed the fishes."
  (27:35)

---

Conclusion

Eddie's Resolve
Despite the betrayal and the perilous situation, Eddie remains determined to recover the gold and survive the ordeal. The episode concludes with a tense standoff, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Final Thoughts:

• Narrator: "The Chase was created and written for the National Broadcasting Company by Lawrence Clee. In tonight's cast were Kermit Murdoch as Alf, Joe DeSantis as Eddie and George Matthews as Mac. The Chase was directed and Transcribed by Walter McGraw."
  (28:15)

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "I got something to tell you. Pretty big stuff." – Alfie
  (03:00)

• "How'd you like to be rich? I don't mean cheap rich, lousy rich." – Alfie
  (03:31)

• "A mountain of gold bar." – Alfie
  (17:57)

• "You cross me, you maniac." – Alfie
  (27:09)

• "40 million bucks to feed the fishes." – Eddie
  (27:35)

---

Themes and Insights

Greed and Betrayal
At its core, this episode explores the devastating effects of greed and the ease with which trust can be shattered in the pursuit of wealth. Alfie's betrayal serves as a stark reminder of the moral compromises individuals are willing to make when faced with unimaginable riches.

Survival and Resilience
Eddie's unwavering determination to survive and reclaim the gold highlights the resilience of the human spirit. Despite being deceived and left in a life-threatening situation, his character embodies strength and resourcefulness.

The Perils of Ambition
The narrative underscores the inherent dangers of unchecked ambition. The characters' relentless drive for easy riches ultimately leads to chaos and near-tragic consequences, emphasizing the fine line between aspiration and obsession.

---

Conclusion

"The Chase 52-06-01 (06) Easy Riches, Sudden Death" masterfully combines suspense, character development, and dramatic twists to deliver a gripping auditory experience. Through its vivid storytelling and dynamic interactions, the episode captivates listeners, leaving them eagerly anticipating the unfolding of Eddie's perilous adventure. As the saga continues, themes of trust, ambition, and survival remain at the forefront, ensuring that "The Chase" remains a standout series in Harold's Old Time Radio collection.

Transcript

[Joe DeSantis]

Too fast, Trevor.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Too fast.

[Unknown]

Here at the Zebra, research shows people would rather teach their kids to drive than search for auto and home insurance.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I know what I'm doing, Mom.

[Unknown]

Or attend a corporate team building workshop.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Go, team.

[Unknown]

Feel that synergy. Or be regaled by Uncle Frank's conspiracy theories.

[Kermit Murdoch]

They're listening to us right now.

[Unknown]

That's why the Zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find savings no one else can Compare. [e-mail] we do the searching, you do the saving.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Shh. They're here.

[Unknown]

The National Broadcasting Company invites you by transcription to join the chase. In the animal world, there is the hunter and the hunted. Hound and fox, hawk and sparrow, chicken and worm. We in the topmost species have also joined the hunt. But who is to judge precisely which of us are hounds or foxes as we enter the chase? Although the chase may assume a multitude of forms, the disease is seldom more pernicious or acute than the eternal pursuit for easy riches and sudden death.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Boy.

[Joe DeSantis]

Hey, you. What Chow me Chop chop.

[Kermit Murdoch]

If they ain't the skipper, the skipper is self. Captain 81.

[Joe DeSantis]

What are you doing here, you crumb bum?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I know that ain't nice. Captain. You ain't forgot about your pal Alfie. Can you imagine eating Cap Nettie in a Panama Chinese Chad joint?

[Joe DeSantis]

Stop calling me Cap. Ah, I ain't skipping no ship anymore.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, how come?

[Joe DeSantis]

Never mind how come. I just think, that's all.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Well, you're in uniform.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yes, some uniform. One street right. I got a birth this purse around the Tropican.

[Kermit Murdoch]

The Tropican? You mean that cruise to.

[Joe DeSantis]

That's the one.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, how you like that, Captain Eddie on a cruise Tub taking a tourist for a ride. You serving the morning soup and crackers to Ruben next gu.

[Joe DeSantis]

Go ahead. Keep talking and I'll twist the bone.

[George Matthews]

Out in your wind tight.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Just tangle me out.

[Joe DeSantis]

Beat it.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Well, you have no calling a rough. Eddie. I was only joking.

[Joe DeSantis]

I ain't got a sense of humor anymore.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Yeah. Mind if I sit down?

[Joe DeSantis]

What for?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Got something to tell you. Pretty big stuff. I shouldn't let you in on account of the way you just treated me, but I got a big heart.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah, big as a toothful.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie, look, maybe I shouldn't have you here, but I've been looking for a partner ever since I hit Panama two months ago.

[Joe DeSantis]

You're wasting your time. I ain't giving any more hand out to creeps like you. Now on, Eddie Monks is strictly for himself.

[Kermit Murdoch]

And who's asking for a hand? I'm the one who's handing out mister.

[Joe DeSantis]

You. What are you giving away? Alfie, the time.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie, look. How'd you like to be rich? I don't mean cheap rich, lousy rich. How'd you like say, 20 million bucks?

[Joe DeSantis]

Go away from me, you smoke, Kill your old jive dog.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Listen you, I'm talking straight. I got a fortune in my pocket on a 10 inch piece of paper. All we gotta do is go after it and even our bathtub faucets will be made of solid gold.

[Joe DeSantis]

Get your crummy elbows off my table. Here's my chow mein.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Ain't she gonna listen to me?

[Joe DeSantis]

Sure. Let me know when you hit a laugh line. I'm wide open for a yacht.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Harry, you always was too smart for your own good. But this time you're way out in left field with a boat and some diving gear. You're in the chips. No skin off my ears if you don't want to listen.

[Joe DeSantis]

Diving gear? What do you mean?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Wow, that's better. Eddie, there's 40 or 50 million bucks in gold bullion at the bottom of the drink off of the coast of Honduras. You ever hear the Graf essence?

[Joe DeSantis]

You mean that Kraut cruiser that went down during the war?

[Kermit Murdoch]

You know what she went down with? Gold bars. Hundreds of them. Were being shipped to a hideout for the Hiney big shots. She sunk with all hands and 40 fathoms of water.

[Joe DeSantis]

Loaded with gold and just waiting for little Alfie pike to dive in and make a killing, huh?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Nobody knows she had this stuff in a hole and she was so banged up that nobody done any salvage on her.

[Joe DeSantis]

And how did you find out?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Well, it was a crowd. I. I met him in the States. I'd done him a good turn. He gave me a map before he died.

[Joe DeSantis]

Ah, sounds like a two bit movie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, you big thick Yoko. Must I show you in black and white? Here, look.

[Joe DeSantis]

What'S in that chamois bag.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Open it up and find out.

[Joe DeSantis]

Hey, this looks like gold dust, Eddie. Gold dust?

[Kermit Murdoch]

It was scraped off one of the bars by my pal. Well, there ain't much in there. Maybe it's worth the C note all told. But the map come with it. There's lots more where that goof does come from.

[Joe DeSantis]

Eddie, let's see the map.

[Kermit Murdoch]

No die.

[Joe DeSantis]

What?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I keep the map. We go partners after we salvage the loot. Now you believe me, mister? Now you think my head's full of smoke.

[Joe DeSantis]

Now wait a minute. How come you waited this long to grab? And how come you picked on me?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I didn't wait for you. You just turned up, you lucky stiff. I've been waiting for a steak, that's all.

[Joe DeSantis]

What kind of stake?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, I need a bolt diving gear. I know a john with a 60 footer. Ain't got speed, but it's a pretty good oil burner and we can rent it for two grand. Diving came might cost a couple more and less grub. I figured the whole deal for six or seven grand, no more.

[Joe DeSantis]

Six or seven grand? You say it like you find that kind of dough on top of seaweed. How are we gonna get that much?

[Kermit Murdoch]

That's up to you, sweetie. Me? What do you think I'm cutting you in as a partner for? I got the map. You got the cash to stay? Cause it figures.

[Joe DeSantis]

Where am I gonna get that kind of money?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Easy.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah? How?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Well, then you tell me. You got a purse's birth on the tourist thumb.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yes.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Don't the person handle the cash?

[Joe DeSantis]

He handles some.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Grab what you can and then jump ship. I'll be waiting for you at the Hotel Soochow in Front Street.

[Joe DeSantis]

I just say it like it was easy. All I gotta do is bust a ship safe open, that's all.

[Kermit Murdoch]

All I gotta do is millions in this, Eddie. And you gotta hold up your own. And to cash in such a hotel, remember? And then we start to chase that rainbow. Eddie. The one with a pot of.

[Joe DeSantis]

Who's out there? Eddie Monks. Open up. Shut that door and lock it.

[Kermit Murdoch]

You got the moron?

[Joe DeSantis]

I got it. Hey, who's that?

[Kermit Murdoch]

A Mike. Come over here. Mike. This is Mike McRae, a pal of mine. Meet Eddie Monks. Man, what's a big idea?

[Joe DeSantis]

You didn't tell me you were roping anybody else in on this deal.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Take it easy, Captain. You forget we gotta have a diving man. You ever been under with the gear?

[Joe DeSantis]

No.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Neither have I. It's 40 fathoms down.

[George Matthews]

I ain't never been that deep before myself. And it ain't gonna be no pushover.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I could be taking all the chances.

[George Matthews]

And I ain't taking them for fun.

[Joe DeSantis]

Is he cut in for a straight one third. We could have hired a guy to go down for us.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Yeah, when he found out what we were after, you think he'd have settled for a couple of Cs? Mac's a pal of mine. He knows his stuff. With you at the wheel, Skipper, and Mac underneath the helmet, we can't miss.

[George Matthews]

Look, if you don't want to cut me in, just say so, sailor. I ain't so anxious to go down our 240ft it's tight enough to bust your ribs down there. Just try it once yourself.

[Joe DeSantis]

All right, all right, you're in. But three is enough, Alfie. Savvy?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Three it is.

[Joe DeSantis]

Now, where's the double on my poke? Now, how about the map, Alfie? It's time we all had a look.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Sit down over here, gent. Here's the setup. We sailed north northwest. We reached South One island. Then steer due west toward Belize toward latitude.

[Joe DeSantis]

Hey, you expecting to call?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Ah, sit tight for a sec. Yeah, yeah. Outside. Now. Okay. Thanks for the tip. There's a cop in the street. He's casing the joint. One of the clerks just tipped me off. You think they're on your tail already?

[Joe DeSantis]

Ship sailed two hours ago. But they might have checked the cash and cable. The copper's back here in Panama. I better blow.

[Kermit Murdoch]

There's a way out through the back. I'll show you. Lay low for two days and then meet us at the slip. This guy's called the Nora 2. I'll take her over and buy Max diving. Give me the. Yeah.

[Joe DeSantis]

And look, Alfie. Make sure that boat's still there when I show up.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I'll keep you shirt on. We'll be there, ready to move. Right, Mike?

[George Matthews]

Right.

[Kermit Murdoch]

You, Mike?

[Joe DeSantis]

Yes.

[George Matthews]

Stow the gear. Set to go.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie should show tomorrow. Then we skip tomorrow.

[George Matthews]

Tomorrow's a long way off. Tonight's a good night for moving through the harbor. We'll be screened by the fog. We can't be stopped by some nosy coast guard.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What about Eddie?

[George Matthews]

We need him that bad?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Stub ain't no Queen Mary. It's hard to handle. Eddie knows his stuff.

[George Matthews]

Splitting 50. 50 is better than breaking it up in thirds.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Are you Hinton? Mike. Oh, boy. You're suggesting we cop a cross?

[George Matthews]

Splitting 50. 50's better than breaking it up in thirds.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Think we can handle this tub along, just the two of us?

[George Matthews]

Sure.

[Kermit Murdoch]

And hoist anchor.

[George Matthews]

Stand by to shove off.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Yeah. When you're ready, Max.

[George Matthews]

Better take your wheel out. We'll set the moon.

[Joe DeSantis]

The captain is the guy who takes the wheel, Alfie. And that's me, Eddie. Thinking of showing off without me, Alfie?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, no. Help me. We was gonna take his turn around the harbor. That's all.

[Joe DeSantis]

Testing, huh?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Sure. Testing.

[Joe DeSantis]

I oughta twist the skull right off your neck.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Hey, no, I. I swear. He test.

[George Matthews]

Lay off of him.

[Joe DeSantis]

Who says?

[George Matthews]

I says you ain't so tough that you can handle me sale.

[Joe DeSantis]

Okay. Later, maybe. We have this out right now. Okay, but get this straight. I'm in this to the finish, and I'm getting my cut. And if I'm navigating this cow, I'm.

[George Matthews]

Giving the orders too.

[Joe DeSantis]

Now you, Mac, give me some steam. Alfie, chuck the hawser. We're on our way, mateys. 40 million or foot.

[Kermit Murdoch]

My ticket to wheel ed all the steady. We should be sighting Swan island off the starboard pile pretty soon.

[Joe DeSantis]

Don't worry, we ain't gonna miss you, Eddie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Yeah, We've been at sea for five days. Getting along nice. I just want to say I hope you don't hold it against Matt and me for making that mistake in Panama.

[Joe DeSantis]

I don't waste my time holding grudges, Alfie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

That's what I thought. Like I always said, a man makes one mistake.

[Joe DeSantis]

Watch the wheel and shut your trap. Where's Mac?

[Kermit Murdoch]

He's forward, checking his diving gear.

[Joe DeSantis]

Keep us steady. Oh, sure.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Sure, Cap.

[Joe DeSantis]

Setting up your gear, Mac?

[George Matthews]

Yeah, using it soon. Al tells me we'll be dropping anchor tomorrow.

[Joe DeSantis]

According to my chart and Alfie's map, that's when you start diving.

[George Matthews]

You guys could have shelled out for an aluminum suit with a compressed air tank on the back. This gear is older than I am.

[Joe DeSantis]

Was the best we could do with the dough we had.

[George Matthews]

Well, this outfit works with a hand pump. You know how to handle it? Sure.

[Joe DeSantis]

This is the phone connection, right?

[George Matthews]

Right.

[Joe DeSantis]

And this is your intake. Yeah. We pump the handle slow and steady to keep your lungs filled. Anything else?

[George Matthews]

Just don't forget to pump that handle, Captain. I'm the guy who's gotta breathe, then.

[Joe DeSantis]

I told you not to call me captain.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Oh, yeah.

[George Matthews]

I heard you lost your papers, Monks. How come you steer some tub on a reef or what?

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah, I steer some tub on a reef. You got it right, tootsie. But when his hunt is over, I buy myself a dozen tubs just like it, see? I buy myself a whole fleet of tubs.

[George Matthews]

Buy yourself the moon, mister. As long as you don't use my share to do it.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Man the hoy. Swine Island's off the starboard bow.

[Joe DeSantis]

Bring a horse apart. I'll be right up.

[George Matthews]

Well, it won't be long now, monks. 40 million smackers, and that ain't hay.

[Joe DeSantis]

Al showed us where to go, Mac, and I'm getting her there. The next move is up to you. Keep that pump going slow and steady, Al.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I lost Mac with under edge.

[Joe DeSantis]

20 minutes.

[Kermit Murdoch]

How long can he stay?

[Joe DeSantis]

We'll give him 10 minutes more, then hoist him back for a breather.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What's them bubbles coming up through the water?

[Joe DeSantis]

Carbon Monoxide. Exhaled air from his escape valve. As long as them bubbles show, we know he's breeding. Hey, wait a minute. Trying to reach me on the earphone, Mac?

[George Matthews]

Prada.

[Joe DeSantis]

The gold?

[George Matthews]

Yeah, think so. There's a hole in the port side, but it ain't big enough to squeeze through. I'm coming up for a blowtorch.

[Joe DeSantis]

I ship it down here.

[George Matthews]

No, no. I'm coming up. Getting a little tired. I need a rest. Come down again later.

[Joe DeSantis]

Okay.

[George Matthews]

Not hauling me up, but take it easy. Pull too fast and I'll get the bench.

[Joe DeSantis]

Well, lift you slow, Mac. Hold on. Won't be long now, Alf. Keep pumping. I'll handle the winch and raise.

[Unknown]

Most people would rather assemble a 300 piece cabinet than search for insurance. That's why the zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find savings no one else can compare. Today@the zebra.com.

[Joe DeSantis]

He'S breaking water out. Lay off the pump. Give me a hand and get him over the side. All right.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Come on.

[Joe DeSantis]

Loosen them screws on the back of his helmet. Easy. Okay, wall it off.

[George Matthews]

Let me sit down a minute.

[Joe DeSantis]

Over here, Mac.

[George Matthews]

Give me a butter.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I'm pooped.

[Joe DeSantis]

Did you see the stuff in the hole, Mac?

[George Matthews]

Yeah, I think so. Kind of hard to tell. Underwater was a busted strong box. Looked like a shell headed two or three things that looked like bricks were near to bulk yet.

[Kermit Murdoch]

That's it. The bricks that made it go.

[Joe DeSantis]

What do you think? You want to go down again, Mac?

[George Matthews]

Later this afternoon. I'll take a net. My better step. You can yank it all up in one hole.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I can hardly wait.

[George Matthews]

Just make sure you guys don't get so excited you forget to work that pump.

[Joe DeSantis]

You'll get all the air you need, Mac. Nice work. Come on, Alf. Well, Mac takes a breather. Let's set up that salvage net. We'll be ready to go in a couple of hours.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Been on there almost an hour, Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

Let's see what goes. Mac. Mac.

[George Matthews]

Yeah.

[Joe DeSantis]

How you coming?

[George Matthews]

Well, I. I got most of it inside the net now. Must be two or 300 bars. You'll have to use the winch to pull it up.

[Joe DeSantis]

Can you switch your winch hook onto the net?

[George Matthews]

I think so.

[Kermit Murdoch]

How's he doing?

[Joe DeSantis]

Fine. He's all right. Mac is knows his stuff.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I told you he'd make a good point.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah, you told me.

[George Matthews]

Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah, Mac. Stack got all the bricks.

[George Matthews]

There's anything left? I don't see it.

[Joe DeSantis]

Make sure.

[George Matthews]

I did make sure. Anyways, I can't stay down much Longer. There's too much pressure. Roll a net up, then send that winch for me.

[Joe DeSantis]

There she goes.

[Kermit Murdoch]

It is coming up next to your pump.

[Joe DeSantis]

I'll swing the net over the side when it shows.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Good thing that winch is Molly driven. We'd never be able to hand cologne like that, Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

I'd have handled it if I had to tear the arms right out of my shoulders.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Then that's broken water. I got it.

[Joe DeSantis]

A mountain of gold bar.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Millions. Millions. I could rub them on my face like shaving. I could eat them raw.

[Joe DeSantis]

Eddie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

Eddie. Yeah, Mac.

[George Matthews]

Hold on deck.

[Joe DeSantis]

Just got it.

[George Matthews]

Where's that winch?

[Joe DeSantis]

Send it right back to you, Mac. Here she come. Getting tired, Alfred?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Hi.

[Joe DeSantis]

Pumping that air down. Let me spell you for a while.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Okay, eh? Yeah.

[Joe DeSantis]

Take the earphone.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Right. Mac. Mac, can you hear me? Yeah.

[George Matthews]

I got the winch hook. I'm tying it on.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Check.

[George Matthews]

Hey, Don. Eddie was on the earphones. And you was pumped.

[Kermit Murdoch]

He took over the pump. I got tired. How you feel, pal?

[George Matthews]

Not so good. I got a couple of cramps. This suit ain't in the best shape ever.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Just give us the word and we'll haul you up, kid.

[George Matthews]

I'm ready now. And take it easy. I want 10 minute rest on every level.

[Kermit Murdoch]

You got it? Got it.

[George Matthews]

Start moving.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I better hold a winch, eddie. Set a 10 minute rest on each level. Okay, Max.

[George Matthews]

Yeah.

[Kermit Murdoch]

We'll hold you here 20 fathoms. Okay?

[George Matthews]

Okay.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Tired of pumping, Eddie? No. What's he got to rest on every level for?

[Joe DeSantis]

If he comes up too fast, he'll bust his gut like a blowfish. You got to get used to the pressure. What you looking at?

[Kermit Murdoch]

A goal.

[Joe DeSantis]

Nice, huh?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Gorgeous.

[Joe DeSantis]

Be nicer if only two had a split.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What?

[Joe DeSantis]

Two ways is better than three, Alfie?

[George Matthews]

You mean it's easy?

[Joe DeSantis]

All I gotta do is to stop pumping this.

[Kermit Murdoch]

It's suffocated, get nowhere. So you can't do that.

[George Matthews]

No.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie. You stopped pumping him air.

[Joe DeSantis]

Did I? Al?

[George Matthews]

Alfie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Yeah, Mac?

[George Matthews]

Something's wrong.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Wrong?

[George Matthews]

The airliner might be fouled up, choking out the air.

[Joe DeSantis]

Got a cigarette, Alfie?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Ow. Ow.

[George Matthews]

I need air. I'm choking.

[Kermit Murdoch]

They're slowing up, Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

Give me a match.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Want me to take the wheel, Eddie? Yeah.

[Joe DeSantis]

Take over. What's eating you, crumb bum?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Nothing.

[Joe DeSantis]

Look like you're falling to pieces.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I'll be glad when I'm off the Scarlets. Away from me, Away from everything. I get a feeling sometimes. Feeling? That Mac's following us. Night when I try to get some sleep.

[George Matthews]

I can still hear them bubbles slowing up.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Stop it. When he stops, that's a trap. Wasn't my fault. When we come to judgment, I won't get the blame up with yours.

[Joe DeSantis]

I said shut up.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Hey, Mona. She's missing.

[Joe DeSantis]

She's conked out. Come on below. Put that light on. I'll put it on.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I did. Lights ain't working.

[Joe DeSantis]

Holy smoke. Batteries around.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Batteries?

[Joe DeSantis]

We won't be able to start the motor up again even if I fix her.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Eddie.

[Joe DeSantis]

It's all right. Give me time. I'll check her over. You ain't far from sure anyways. Maybe we'll drift him with a tide. Hand me the tools from out of that chest. I'm going to work.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Any luck? Any?

[Joe DeSantis]

Yeah, all bad.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Can't just try.

[Joe DeSantis]

I'm trying, ain't I? Now shut your yap and hand me that wrench. Well, no soap.

[Kermit Murdoch]

You mean we got adrift? Yeah. We could radio for help.

[Joe DeSantis]

With this load of bullion aboard? Are you nuts? We'd never get it through customs. They take it away from us. Your jerk.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What are we gonna do?

[Joe DeSantis]

Just drift, that's all. Just drift. This is fine. This is great. 40 million bucks in gold and we're laying on deck like a couple of slobs waiting for a breeze.

[Kermit Murdoch]

It must be Mac getting back, Ed. It must be my hound in the Jason.

[Joe DeSantis]

One more crack like that and I'll feed you to the barracudas.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What's that?

[Joe DeSantis]

What's what?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Listen. Some bubbles. Some air bubbles. Can't you hear?

[Joe DeSantis]

Pipe down.

[Kermit Murdoch]

It's a doom. It's back. It's the air coming out of back.

[Joe DeSantis]

Pipe down.

[Kermit Murdoch]

What do you see?

[Joe DeSantis]

Eh, nothing. The water's clear. Must have been some air come out with the bilge, that's all. What are you looking at me that way for?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Just wondering, that's all.

[Joe DeSantis]

Wondering what? If I'll cross you two. Thinking I might try to get rid of you like I got rid of Mac and keep the swag myself. Alfie.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Don't come near me.

[Joe DeSantis]

What about you, Alfie? Maybe you ain't had the same thought about getting rid of me, huh? I can read your mind like a book, tootsie. So watch your step, you hear?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I wouldn't cross you, Eddie. Don't get sore.

[Joe DeSantis]

Go on, Lay there like a side of beef. I'm going down to the galley and get me some grub.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Got some grub for me, eh? Yeah.

[Joe DeSantis]

Well, ain't you gonna eat it?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I ain't got no appetite all of a sudden.

[Joe DeSantis]

Maybe you Want me to force it down your throat?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Can I help, Eddie?

[Joe DeSantis]

Now what?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Where's the bubbles again, Eddie? That's all I hear now. Bubbles, Bubbles, bubble.

[Joe DeSantis]

You punch drunk ape. That's a tea kettle on the stove.

[Kermit Murdoch]

It's a te.

[Joe DeSantis]

You're going off your nut. But before you do, let me tell you I ain't waiting for no screwball to kill this deal. We're drifting west and we'll make sure in a day or two. Now keep your scalp on, Alfie, or you'll get what Mac got. Sav. What? Al. Al. Crazy fool.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Where did he go alone?

[George Matthews]

Where?

[Kermit Murdoch]

Can't be more than 10 miles off. Looks like empty beach, too. What a break, huh, Eddie?

[Joe DeSantis]

For me, maybe.

[Kermit Murdoch]

You.

[Joe DeSantis]

Guess it's time for you to trance, Ralphie. This is the end of the line.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Hey, I didn't know I was packing a gun.

[Joe DeSantis]

You know it now. What are you laughing at? Answer me, your screwy crumb bum. What's that sound?

[Kermit Murdoch]

It's water.

[Joe DeSantis]

Water? Hey, we're listening.

[Kermit Murdoch]

I just opened up all the portholes below the line.

[Joe DeSantis]

What?

[Kermit Murdoch]

I figured we needed to swim. Eddie. Max out there alone? Eddie? He's swimming by himself. I knew he'd like company.

[Joe DeSantis]

You cross me, you maniac.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Triple cross, Eddie. You cross Mac. I cross you. You cross me. Why you. Breaking the wireless, Eddie? Won't do you no good. I pulled the wires. I wanted to make sure we get our swim.

[Joe DeSantis]

You nut. You crazy nut. 10 miles from shore, you have to blow your top. 40 million bucks to feed the fishes.

[Kermit Murdoch]

Get your feet wet, Eddie. Water's coming in first. Listen to the bubbles, Eddie. Listen, Ellie. I didn't get it like back then. But you will, eddie. You will.

[George Matthews]

10 miles.

[Joe DeSantis]

10 miles from shore. 40 million bucks going right back where it came from.

[Unknown]

It. In the animal world, there is the hunter and the hunted. Hound and fox, hawk and sparrow, chicken and worm. We in the topmost species have also joined the hunt. But who is to judge precisely which of us are hounds or foxes as we enter the chase? The Chase was created and written for the National Broadcasting Company by Lawrence Clee. In tonight's cast were Kermit Murdoch as Alf, Joe DeSantis as Eddie and George Matthews as Mac. The Chase was directed and Transcribed by Walter McGraw. Next week, a promise of luck accompanies a prophecy of doom at the races as we join the Chase. Next, First Nighter presents comedy drama on NBC.