Podcast Summary: "The Saint 51-02-04 The Carnival"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Episode: The Saint 51-02-04 The Carnival
- Release Date: July 26, 2025
Introduction
"The Saint 51-02-04 The Carnival" transports listeners to the enchanting yet mysterious world of early 20th-century carnivals. Featuring the iconic character Simon Templar, known as "The Saint," this episode weaves a tale of intrigue, deception, and danger amidst the vibrant backdrop of carnival attractions. Vincent Price stars as The Saint, bringing his signature charisma to this classic adventure.
The Buried Alive Attraction
The episode opens with a promotional segment led by Barker, who enthusiastically advertises the carnival’s most gripping attraction: Mona, the buried alive girl.
Barker [00:53]: "Just step a little closer if you will, my friend. You might be the start of a mighty and surging throne."
Barker highlights the spectacle where Mona lies buried 20 feet underground, challenging the audience's courage and curiosity. This act aims to break the world record for the longest time spent buried alive.
Simon Templar's Investigation Begins
Enter Simon Templar (The Saint), a discerning and observant individual intrigued by Mona's plight. Initially hesitant, Simon engages with the carnival staff, sensing that something isn't quite right.
Simon Templer [01:05]: "You mean me? You and another slumming tonight, friend, happen to like carnivals?"
Simon’s curiosity leads him to purchase a ticket and communicate with Mona via a talk tube, where she expresses fear and desperation.
Mona [03:13]: "Frankie, you gotta get me out of here. I'm going crazy down here. I'm scared, Mona."
Unearthing the Mystery with Bea St. Clair
Simon seeks answers from Bea St. Clair, the carnival’s owner, revealing the dark history behind the buried alive acts. Bea divulges that Mona’s sister, Angie, previously performed the same act before her untimely death due to a weak heart.
Bea St. Clair [06:21]: "Angie? They never come any better. Every hundred years or so, you meet somebody nice in this louse trap circuit. Angie was one of them."
Bea's reluctance to provide more information only deepens Simon's suspicions, prompting him to delve deeper into the carnival's secrets.
Interaction with Frankie Fowler
Simon moves on to Frankie Fowler, Mona’s husband and a tattoo artist at the carnival. Frankie reveals his deep connection to Angie, Mona's late sister, and expresses sorrow over her passing.
Frankie (Frank) [08:17]: "I couldn't leave her behind, not with strangers. Call me sentimental if you want to, but that's the way I felt."
Frankie’s emotional demeanor and evasive responses raise red flags for Simon, suggesting potential involvement in Angie’s death.
Carlos Segundo: An Unexpected Ally
Carlos Segundo, a dwarf performer and friend of Frankie, becomes an unexpected ally for Simon. Through their interactions, Carlos shares his grief over Angie’s death and begins to suspect foul play.
Carlos [12:08]: "Well, I had a call for help tonight from 20ft under the ground. And I just don't know what to do about it."
Carlos’s insights and connection to both Angie and Frankie help Simon piece together the puzzle, indicating that Mona may be in more danger than initially apparent.
The Climax: Confrontation and Revelation
As tensions mount, Simon confronts Frankie with his suspicions. The confrontation turns intense, leading to a physical altercation where Frankie attempts to silence Simon and Carlos.
Simon Templer [21:30]: "You couldn't help it when you killed Angie with poison."
During the scuffle, Frankie is exposed as the orchestrator behind Angie’s death and Mona’s poisoning, revealing his motive rooted in jealousy and greed.
Simon Templer [21:17]: "Because you'd been going around with you, Frankie, while you were married to her older sister."
Frankie’s desperate attempts to maintain his facade crumble as evidence against him mounts, culminating in his defeat.
Resolution and Justice Served
With Frankie apprehended, Simon ensures Mona's safety by facilitating her rescue from the buried alive act. The carnival’s dark secrets are brought to light, restoring peace and justice for those wronged.
Doctor [16:26]: "She's a sick girl, but she'll live. We got her in time."
Mona’s survival marks the triumph of good over nefarious schemes, reaffirming Simon Templar’s role as the Robin Hood of modern crime.
Conclusion
"The Saint 51-02-04 The Carnival" masterfully blends suspense, drama, and classic detective work, showcasing Simon Templar’s unwavering commitment to justice. Through engaging dialogue, memorable characters, and a tightly woven plot, this episode captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, offering listeners a captivating journey through mystery and redemption.
Notable Quotes:
- Simon Templer [05:07]: "Was it an accident?"
- Bea St. Clair [06:33]: "Angie? Oh, yeah, that Angie. That's a real sweetheart."
- Carlos Segundo [08:36]: "They say us carny people got no heart."
- Simon Templer [21:30]: "You couldn't help it when you killed Angie with poison."
Key Takeaways
- Intrigue in Entertainment: The episode highlights the fine line between entertainment and exploitation within carnival attractions.
- Character Depth: Through interactions, characters reveal their motives and backstories, adding layers to the narrative.
- Moral Justice: Simon Templar embodies the fight against corruption and deceit, ensuring that truth prevails.
For those new to "Harold's Old Time Radio," this episode offers a quintessential example of the show's ability to blend thrilling adventure with rich storytelling, making it a must-listen for fans of classic radio dramas.