Top Secret 1950-06-19 (002) The Admiral's Strange Identity

Summary

Detailed Summary of "Top Secret 1950-06-19 (002) The Admiral's Strange Identity"

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Introduction

"Top Secret 1950-06-19 (002) The Admiral's Strange Identity" is a captivating episode from Harold's Old Time Radio, a podcast dedicated to reviving the classic radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio. Hosted by Harolds Old Time Radio, this particular episode immerses listeners in a thrilling world of espionage and intrigue set against the backdrop of World War II. Released on May 12, 2025, the episode features outstanding performances by Ilona Massey as Baroness Karen Gazer and Ralph Bell as Admiral Strassner. This summary delves into the key points, discussions, and dramatic moments that make this episode a standout in the series.

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Characters

• Ilona Massey as Baroness Karen Gazer / Elsa Frang: A stunning and resourceful spy coerced into service by Admiral Strassner, who undertakes a perilous mission to infiltrate enemy lines.

• Ralph Bell as Admiral Strassner: The menacing antagonist, a high-ranking officer in German intelligence known for his cruelty and cunning.

• Mr. Borland: An orchestra leader entangled in the espionage plot, whose actions have significant implications for the mission.

• Captain von Spiegel: A trusted operator within German intelligence, responsible for overseeing the mission aboard the Bremen.

• Freulein Fung: A subordinate involved in the espionage activities, assisting in the intricate plans to deceive and gather intelligence.

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Plot Summary

Coercion and Transformation (00:32 - 03:19)

The episode begins abruptly with a vivid advertisement for Wayfair's style tips but swiftly transitions to the main narrative. Ilona Massey introduces the story as a "top secret" NBC presentation, immediately setting a tone of suspense and intrigue. We meet Baroness Karen Gazer, who reveals how she was coerced into becoming a spy by Admiral Strassner.

Karen Gazer (00:46): "The world's most beautiful actress, as the Baroness Karen Gazer in transcribed dramas of international intrigue and espionage before and during World War II."

Karen recounts her transformation from a manicurist in the Hotel of Lom in Berlin to a dedicated spy. She details how she gathered intelligence on her target, Alpha Friend, and the meticulous planning that led to her current mission.

Karen Gazer (02:39): "I accepted those conditions and became a spy."

Mission Preparation and Doubts (03:19 - 06:34)

Karen meets with Ilona Massey's character, who warns her about the dangers of the mission. Despite reservations, Karen is determined to proceed, emphasizing the importance of retrieving crucial information without letting Admiral Strassner escape.

Illona Massey (04:06): "Karen, this is insane. It's too dangerous."

Karen demonstrates her commitment, asserting that the risk is worth the potential gain. The duo discusses the specifics of disguising Karen as Elsa Frang, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned to avoid detection.

Karen Gazer (04:39): "Well, how do I look?"

Infiltration on the Bremen (06:34 - 16:03)

Karen successfully adopts her disguise as Elsa Frang and boards the transatlantic ship Bremen. The narrative vividly describes her interactions with Captain von Spiegel and her strategic positioning to observe and report on Admiral Strassner's activities.

Karen Gazer (06:53): "My name is Elsa Frang. My age is 28. I must be drab. No makeup, no nail polish."

Karen's disguise allows her to blend seamlessly into her surroundings, but tension mounts as she navigates the complexities of her mission. She engages with Mr. Borland, raising suspicions and further entangling her in the spy game.

Confrontation and Tension (16:03 - 22:18)

As Karen delves deeper into her mission, the plot thickens with unexpected confrontations. Ilona Massey's character attempts to manipulate Karen into fully embracing her role, leading to a high-stakes showdown.

Ilona Massey (16:57): "I want your clothes."

The tension escalates when Mr. Borland's true intentions come to light, forcing Karen to make critical decisions that could jeopardize her mission and life.

Climactic Showdown (22:18 - 29:12)

The climax reaches its peak aboard the Bremen as Karen discovers that Admiral Strassner possesses critical plans for the P38 fighter aircraft. A fierce confrontation ensues, blending elements of deception, physical struggle, and psychological warfare.

Ilona Massey (23:15): "Heal me. You, my dear Elsa, will be the corpse."

In a dramatic twist, Karen must outmaneuver both Admiral Strassner and Mr. Borland to secure the vital intelligence, culminating in a suspense-filled resolution.

Resolution and Tease for Next Episode (29:12 - 30:47)

The episode concludes with the successful retrieval of the P38 fighter plans and hints at future adventures. A brief mention of next week's story promises another thrilling installment involving a blind beggar in Tangiers and a mysterious ten-year-old boy with gray hair.

Karen Gazer (29:21): "Next week's story concerns a blind beggar in the bazaar of the Singing Fountain in Tangiers and the little boy of ten with gray hair."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Karen Gazer on Espionage:

  "In espionage, Baroness, there is no protection in danger, no recognition even in death." (02:23)

• Ilona Massey's Warning:

  "Karen, this is insane. It's too dangerous." (04:06)

• Karen's Determination:

  "It's a risk I'll have to take." (05:20)

• Baroness Karen Gazer's Resolve:

  "I won't let you go. Admiral Strassen is a fanatic. Cruel, sadistic." (04:19)

• Climactic Directive:

  "Heal me. You, my dear Elsa, will be the corpse." (23:15)

• Teasing Future Adventures:

  "Next week's story concerns a blind beggar in the bazaar of the Singing Fountain in Tangiers and the little boy of ten with gray hair." (29:21)

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Key Themes and Insights

• Deception and Identity: The episode masterfully explores the theme of identity, with Karen's transformation into Elsa Frang serving as a testament to the lengths spies must go to for the sake of their missions.

• Moral Ambiguity: Karen's internal conflict between her coerced role and her personal morals adds depth to her character, highlighting the ethical dilemmas faced by those in espionage.

• Suspense and Tension: The narrative maintains high levels of suspense through strategic plot twists and character interactions, keeping listeners engaged and anticipating the next development.

• War and Espionage Dynamics: Set during World War II, the episode provides a glimpse into the covert operations and the shadowy battlefields where information is as valuable as weaponry.

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Conclusion

"Top Secret 1950-06-19 (002) The Admiral's Strange Identity" stands out as a prime example of classic radio drama, blending intricate plotting with compelling character development. Ilona Massey and Ralph Bell deliver powerful performances that bring the story to life, immersing listeners in a world of espionage and suspense. The episode not only entertains but also invites reflection on the complexities of identity and morality in the clandestine world of spying. As part of Harold's Old Time Radio series, this episode continues the tradition of preserving and celebrating the rich history of radio storytelling, making it an essential listen for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Transcript

[Styles MacKenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Styles MacKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior. Wayfair Every style, every home.

[Ilona Massey]

Until now, this story has been top secret. Top secret. The new NBC presentation starring Ilona Massey.

[Ralph Bell]

The world's most beautiful actress, as the Baroness Karen Gazer in transcribed dramas of international intrigue and espionage before and during World War II.

[Ilona Massey]

Tonight, as Assignment 2, the Admiral's Strange identity. The story until now, top secret. Don't say anything else, sir. Just get in. What? Get inside.

[Karen Gazer]

You are not serious.

[Ilona Massey]

I heard the last two minutes of your conversation with Borland. The steward saw him come to this cabin. I know what you are and who you are. You get inside.

[Karen Gazer]

I won't. Let go of me. Let me go.

[Ilona Massey]

Vacation is not a painful death.

[Karen Gazer]

Please, you don't know what you're doing. Let me go, you. You maniac. I was hard unconscious from the blow, but I felt him pick me up and put me in. He put the pillow over my face, blankets off the bed stuffed in around me so I couldn't breathe. Then the lid came down, pressing, relentless. Then darkness, nothingness. The whole pattern of my life came into focus, stretching away into the past. I could hear the farmers yawning me.

[Ilona Massey]

In espionage, Baroness, there is no protection in danger, no recognition even in death.

[Karen Gazer]

I accepted those conditions and became a spy. Two weeks ago, I was a manicurist in the Hotel of Lom in Berlin, sending him daily reports of whatever information I could find. Then I heard about Alpha Friend. I found out who she was and what she was going to do. I got her measurements, her height, weight. And I asked the farmer to arrange for her detention. When he got her, he sent for me. I hurried to the little art shop on the back street in Berlin where the farmer was waiting.

[Ilona Massey]

That you, Karen?

[Karen Gazer]

Yes.

[Ilona Massey]

Come in. Karen. You can't go through with it. It's too dangerous.

[Karen Gazer]

Did you get her?

[Ilona Massey]

Two of the men picked her up last night. Where is she? She tried to escape. We shot her.

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, no. Was it absolutely necessary?

[Ilona Massey]

I'm afraid so. She would have escaped. There are her clothes are there on the couch.

[Karen Gazer]

I'll change behind the screen. Go ahead and tell me everything. Karen.

[Ilona Massey]

This is suicide. Changing Places with Elsa. Phone is suicide.

[Karen Gazer]

Tell me about her.

[Ilona Massey]

Her tickets are for a plane leaving Templehoff Airdrome in a quarter of an hour. You were right about her size. Exactly like you. Waist, bust, shoes, everything.

[Karen Gazer]

Did she wear any jewelry?

[Ilona Massey]

No.

[Karen Gazer]

How did she do her hair?

[Ilona Massey]

Combed back off the forehead.

[Karen Gazer]

Did she wear nail polish?

[Ilona Massey]

No.

[Karen Gazer]

Have you any polish remover?

[Ilona Massey]

No.

[Karen Gazer]

Well, I can peel it off in the car on the way to the airport.

[Ilona Massey]

Karen, this is insane. It's too dangerous.

[Karen Gazer]

How about the makeup?

[Ilona Massey]

She didn't wear any. She was drab, colorless, insipid. Karen, I won't let you go. Admiral Strafen is a fanatic. Cruel, sadistic. He's the most dangerous man I know.

[Karen Gazer]

What's the latest information on him?

[Ilona Massey]

I got a code message this afternoon. You were right. It's the same man. The head man in German intelligence. He went to New York four months ago.

[Karen Gazer]

Good.

[Ilona Massey]

You know the rest. Nine days ago he wired Berlin to send a woman agent to help him in New York. It was very specific as to size, height and weight. I know you think the measurement, but. But you can't do it.

[Karen Gazer]

Well, how do I look?

[Ilona Massey]

Alan, don't. Please.

[Karen Gazer]

Changing places with elsewhere is too good to miss. You are sure you've got all of her papers?

[Ilona Massey]

Yes. Passport, identification, travel permit, tickets of Paris. Change at Lisbon for pan American Flight 377.

[Karen Gazer]

And you are positive Straussner has never seen her?

[Ilona Massey]

I don't know. That's another reason why you shouldn't go.

[Karen Gazer]

It's a risk I'll have to take. Come on, you can tell me the rest on the way to the airport.

[Ilona Massey]

I wrote a complete description of Dr. Furman in my report.

[Karen Gazer]

When I've memorized it, I'll either eat.

[Ilona Massey]

It or burn it. Helen, I wish you wouldn't go.

[Karen Gazer]

I've got to go.

[Ilona Massey]

Strossen is a maniac.

[Karen Gazer]

Have you ever seen him?

[Ilona Massey]

Yes, once. He's small. Very small for a man. Fair hair. Never drinks nor smokes. Personal friend of Himmler's. Very clever at disguising himself. Does all sorts of things with his voice. Ventriloquism. He's. Oh, well, I suppose it's no use. If you're going, you're going.

[Karen Gazer]

Admiral Strato has been in New York four months. He wouldn't go at all. Except for something of the most vital importance. Believe me, the risk is worth it.

[Ilona Massey]

Your first mistake will be your last. I will drive you all the way to the airport. You can walk from here. Put on that coat. A cold wind.

[Karen Gazer]

Shall I Contact our men in New York immediately.

[Ilona Massey]

You arrive Bryant on Madison Avenue. You know in.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes. Well, goodbye, dear friend.

[Ilona Massey]

God bless you, Karen. Good luck.

[Karen Gazer]

Elo. 28, blonde hair, blue eyes. Marseille 1935. Berlin 1939. My name is Elsa Frang. My age is 28. I must be drab. No makeup, no nail polish. I must disguise my mind, my heart, my body. I studied the farmers report over and.

[Ilona Massey]

Over from Lisbon to New York.

[Karen Gazer]

From Lagadia I take a taxi to the Bryant Art Galleries on Medicine Evans. This is our contact. The sale turns fierce when I ask for Mr. Bryant personally. And at last I am alone with him in his office. I can stop being Alpha frown. Have you anything new on Admiral Strassner, Mr. Bryant?

[Ilona Massey]

Only that we know he has in his possession something of vital importance to this country. What we don't know. Have you used address? I'll write it down for you. Yes.

[Karen Gazer]

Park Evan.

[Ilona Massey]

He's your only apartment of a friend. The Baron Henrik Von Weil.

[Karen Gazer]

And who is Von Weil?

[Ilona Massey]

We've never seen him.

[Karen Gazer]

What else can you tell me?

[Ilona Massey]

Strassner is sailing on the Europa for Germany, two weeks from tonight. He wouldn't leave unless he had what he came for.

[Karen Gazer]

And he wouldn't come at all unless it was for something very big.

[Ilona Massey]

Right.

[Karen Gazer]

Have the operators in the German Lloyd boats.

[Ilona Massey]

A sword named Martindale on the Europa. An orchestra leader named Borland on the Bremen. Incidentally, we plan to kill Strassner rather than let him fail.

[Karen Gazer]

You'll do nothing of the sort. I've come 3,000 miles to pose as Admiral Strassner's assistant.

[Ilona Massey]

But we can't let him get away.

[Karen Gazer]

Recovering whatever it is he's stolen is more important than killing him. I understand that. I am in charge of the case.

[Ilona Massey]

So naturally, don't do nothing until you hear from me.

[Karen Gazer]

I'll go up to Admiral Strausser. Now. Yes? I am looking for Admiral Strassner. Admiral Strassner moved away from here, sir. I don't know. This is Baron from Weill's apartment. Then let me speak to him. Baron Son Violet passed away two days ago. Oh, I'm Elsa Fran. Who are you? Come in, please. So you are Elsa Fran. Why didn't you say so? Let me see your takers. I will show my papers to no one but Admiral Strafner. I'm surprised to learn he has moved. Come this way. No, I'm sorry, I believe. Come this way, I said. I don't understand. He will. In here, please. He's here. Go in.

[Ilona Massey]

So you finally got here. It took you long enough. You are Wilhelm Strassner? At your service, Frulein Fung. Turn around, please. Why are you startled? Have you never seen a coffin before? Don't look so nervous. There's nobody in it as yet. I think she'll do nicely, Friar.

[Karen Gazer]

At least she's the right size. Admiral Strachner, I don't understand this. I'm sure it is amusing.

[Ilona Massey]

Be quiet. I'll explain when I'm ready. Get the clothes, Fryer.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes, Admiral.

[Ilona Massey]

Your papers, please. Thank you. Passport. Identification. The number?

[Karen Gazer]

One more than the date, which is seven.

[Ilona Massey]

Good. Hurry with those clothes, Friar. So you are the famous Ela.

[Karen Gazer]

This coffin, what is it for?

[Ilona Massey]

It's a very special coffin. Look, I'll show you. Beautiful, isn't it? White satin pillow lining an air hole so I can breathe. Solid bronze. It can be locked inside by the corpse or outside by the pallbearer, Friar.

[Karen Gazer]

All right, all right. I have them. And if they don't fit? It's not my fault. I'm not a dressmaker.

[Ilona Massey]

Hold them up to her.

[Karen Gazer]

But Emil, these clothes are a fro funeral.

[Ilona Massey]

Yes, Frulein mine. You will be my widow and my life. Be glider.

[Karen Gazer]

I am to God.

[Ilona Massey]

Corpse me. They do, Friar. Widow's weeds don't have to fit. And be sure they're plenty long. And the veil heavy. Use two thicknesses for the veil.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes, Admiral.

[Ilona Massey]

Scrap I don't go, Friar. Wait, Frulein. My plans have had to be changed. You and I are sailing on the Bremen this evening. The night I happen to know that American intelligence here would rather kill me than let me leave. They think I am sailing on Europa two weeks from now. Instead, we sail tonight. I'm going to bore the brain as a corpse in that coffin. We will leave here in two hours. You have that long to get ready through. There's a bedroom and a bath. You may wash and rest, then change into these clothes.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes. Mad mirror stuff.

[Ilona Massey]

That is all. Leave us. Well, Friar, what do you think?

[Karen Gazer]

Don't take her, take me. Why should I be left behind?

[Ilona Massey]

Ah, stop it, Friar. No, never. I will phone you from the brain in the night, before it darks. Unless it is my voice, you will do nothing.

[Karen Gazer]

Your voice? You have a thousand.

[Ilona Massey]

Oh, surely you will recognize me, Fran.

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, yes, I recognize you.

[Ilona Massey]

Only when you get spoken instructions from me will you destroy the duplicates. Is that clear?

[Karen Gazer]

Lighten the glider. A corpse. Accompaniment. The long black widow. Sweets. He had thought of everything. Death certificate. A bill, Mark. Paid in full from one of the best funeral parlors in New York. I was now Frau Headwing from Weiss, mourning the husband whose body she was taking back to Germany for burial. Five silent German strikes carried it at P60 where the Bremen sailed. The captain of the great ship himself met at the gang plank.

[Ilona Massey]

My ships are from fire. I'm Captain Edwards von Speaker. Everything has been arranged.

[Karen Gazer]

Thank you, head captain.

[Ilona Massey]

If the forbears will proceed us, would you please.

[Karen Gazer]

Gently.

[Ilona Massey]

May I offer you my arm, Papa.

[Karen Gazer]

Thank you. Cluster Strassner had managed the impossible. A first class stateroom on the Bremen for a copy. An ADA cabin and filled with flowers. The cabin door shut out the noise of a transatlantic sailing. The champagne, the streamer and the last minute goodbye. It was not until we were in the open sea that the coffin opened.

[Ilona Massey]

Well, my first successful impersonation of a corpse.

[Karen Gazer]

I am son that you could manage it. The flowers, the pallbearers, even the captain.

[Ilona Massey]

Captain von Spiegel is one of the most trusted operators in German intelligence. Now telephone for your dinner to be served in the cabin. I'm hungry.

[Karen Gazer]

Meals were served in the cabin. One meal ordered by me, intended for me. Eaten by him. He'd leave me a few scraps, a roll, a mouthful of cold cottage. The portholes were closed and draped. At the end of four days, I was so hungry, I. I was weak. He could get into the coffin and close the lid in less than five seconds. Whenever there was a knock at the door, we went through the same grotesque performance.

[Ilona Massey]

Wait. Say. Just a minute.

[Karen Gazer]

Just a minute.

[Ilona Massey]

Laura. You'll hear when you answer the door. I told you that.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes.

[Ilona Massey]

I'm ready. Lower the lid. Quietly.

[Nicole Byer]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms flyer today's style tips. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals, go wild. Like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com.

[Styles MacKenzie]

Ooh, fierce.

[Nicole Byer]

This has been your Wayfarer style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Ilona Massey]

Wayfair.

[Styles MacKenzie]

Every style, every home.

[Karen Gazer]

Yes. The captain's compliments, Faul Van Weiler. And would you do him the honor of dining privately with him in his cabin? Oh, darn you. My frulein with Captain Von Spiegel. My regrets and thanks, but I prefer to be alone. All right, he's gone.

[Ilona Massey]

Get out of those clothes.

[Karen Gazer]

What?

[Ilona Massey]

I wish to telephone New York. It would be dangerous to use the phone in this cabin. A corpse should not talk Nor should a widow have her husband's voice. We arranged that on the fifth night out the captain would invite me to dinner when the coast was clear.

[Karen Gazer]

Invite you to dinner?

[Ilona Massey]

I cannot explain everything. You do not understand, Fraulein. You can change in the bathroom, put on a dress, put on anything. I want your clothes.

[Karen Gazer]

About this man was danger. Otherwise it would have been funny. I changed into one of Elsa Frank's drab black dresses. He put on the long, loose fitting widow's weeds. Now I realized why my size had been so important. He was a small man and the clothes fit him with the veiled on. It was. It was just unbelievable.

[Ilona Massey]

Well, how do I look?

[Karen Gazer]

You'll never get away with it if someone speaks to you. Another passenger, A member of the crew.

[Ilona Massey]

I've played many parts in this business, Frulein. Young men, old men, even women. Your vocal quality is very interesting, but rather hard to get.

[Karen Gazer]

Do you mean to say you can impersonate my voice?

[Ilona Massey]

If necessary.

[Karen Gazer]

Do you mean to say you can impersonate my voice? I am throwing vile from Berlin. I am convinced there is no danger. It would be funny.

[Ilona Massey]

For two weeks I impersonated quite a famous Russian actress. She was a great artist. Uspenskaya.

[Karen Gazer]

Since there is nothing I can do.

[Ilona Massey]

To convince you, I will say nothing more. Nevertheless, it is possible to fool all.

[Karen Gazer]

Of the people all of the time.

[Ilona Massey]

How is that?

[Karen Gazer]

It's fantastic.

[Ilona Massey]

See if anyone is outside the door.

[Karen Gazer]

All right. There is a stewardess down the corridor.

[Ilona Massey]

And listen. We'll see how she reacts. Lock the door after I leave. I'll be back in 20 minutes.

[Karen Gazer]

20 minutes. A little air, huh? I am dining with Captain von Spiegel after all. B, B B. Oh, here it is. Morland Ray. Orchestra 5.

[Ilona Massey]

Hello.

[Karen Gazer]

Mr. Borland?

[Ilona Massey]

Yes.

[Karen Gazer]

Ray Borland, the orchestra leader.

[Ilona Massey]

Yes. Who's this?

[Karen Gazer]

A friend. A friend with a plain white visiting card.

[Ilona Massey]

A grain of wheat.

[Karen Gazer]

Believe in the center.

[Ilona Massey]

The farmer. Yes.

[Karen Gazer]

Can you come to Ada, cabin 71 right away? It's urgent.

[Ilona Massey]

Right away.

[Karen Gazer]

And please bring me something to eat. A sandwich, anything. Just hurry.

[Ilona Massey]

Captain Von Spiegel, I have no sense of humor. I do not enjoy masquerading as a woman. Will you please place my court on New York? Certainly, Admiral Star, I meant no offense. Who's that? I don't know. Ask who it is. Don't open the door. Yeah? Mr. Borland just went to cabin 71 on Absolute. All right, Frank. What's he mean? 71 is my cabin. Who is Baller, the orchestra leader. Four hours ago we got a Code cable from Berlin warning us about him. An American agent had to tell the steward to keep an eye on him. I rather think Elsa. Fran can take care of him. Put my call through and then I'll get back. Right. Captain Von Spiegel. Get me shipped ashore. McKay, New York, Sacramento 20098. Right. She'll call me back. It will be long. No. Elsa may be in trouble. Tell the operator to hurry. Do you want any help with Boland? I'll take care of him personally. You'll be careful? Well, this ship is technically German territory. We can't allow anything to bleak. I assure you, Captain, Mr. Borland's treatment will be anything but blatant. Tell the operator to hurry that call.

[Karen Gazer]

Be careful. Don't dirty the lining. White certain marks easily. And he notices everything.

[Ilona Massey]

Whatever it is isn't in the coffin.

[Karen Gazer]

Then he's carrying it on his person.

[Ilona Massey]

There isn't much time. We dock tomorrow morning at seven. You know.

[Karen Gazer]

I know. He's carrying something. Something of the most vital importance. Mr. Boland, we have never seen each other before, but we are partners.

[Ilona Massey]

I'll do anything you say.

[Karen Gazer]

You say so of the farmer's man who needs the ship.

[Ilona Massey]

Yeah. They're stationed at Bremerhaven. They meet me every voyage.

[Karen Gazer]

Admiral Strasser must not get off this boat of life.

[Ilona Massey]

You want me to to?

[Karen Gazer]

One of us must.

[Ilona Massey]

All right. How?

[Karen Gazer]

We can search his personality. Dead. Have your weapon?

[Ilona Massey]

Yes. Small automatic with a silencer. Do you want it?

[Karen Gazer]

No. I say I'm ill and sent for a doctor. Then you must write.

[Ilona Massey]

Open the door.

[Karen Gazer]

He's back. Hide.

[Ilona Massey]

Where?

[Karen Gazer]

In the bathroom. Quickly. Get in the shower and pull the curtain. Sorry.

[Ilona Massey]

Right.

[Karen Gazer]

Shut the door and be quiet.

[Ilona Massey]

Elsa, Hurry.

[Karen Gazer]

Coming.

[Ilona Massey]

Thank you, Elsa. Where is he?

[Karen Gazer]

Who?

[Ilona Massey]

Don't be coy, Elsa. Where is he?

[Karen Gazer]

I. I don't know what you mean.

[Ilona Massey]

The steward saw him come into this cabin. Ball and the orchestra leader.

[Karen Gazer]

The steward was mistaken.

[Ilona Massey]

Berlin cabled about him. He's an enemy agent.

[Karen Gazer]

I. I don't know what you are saying. There hasn't been anybody here.

[Ilona Massey]

So I thought you'd play it both ways.

[Karen Gazer]

Huh? Admiral Stratton.

[Ilona Massey]

I spoiled standing at that door for two. I heard you talking to him. Admiral Strassner must not get off this boat alive. Indeed. Now, where did he go? But of course. The bathroom. Then we shall lock him in for a moment. Yes. And I will deal with you first. Yes. I will deal with you first. Don't say anything, Elsa. Just get in the coffin.

[Karen Gazer]

What?

[Ilona Massey]

Get inside.

[Karen Gazer]

You are not Serious?

[Ilona Massey]

I know what you are and who you are. Get into that coffin.

[Karen Gazer]

I won't. Let go of me. Let me go.

[Ilona Massey]

Provocation is not a painful death.

[Karen Gazer]

Please. You don't know what you're doing. Let me go.

[Ilona Massey]

Heal. Heal me. You, my dear Elsa, will be the corpse. And I shall become the widow. There. The pillow over your face. Oh, yes. Blankets to make quite sure you can't breathe. It'll be a slow, warm death. Elsa. Sleep well, Mr. Borland. I know you're in there. I have a gun. I shall open the door. Then I shall count five exactly on the word five. You will come out with your hands raised. I will unlock the door. Mr. Ball. Elsa. Elsa. I'm locked in. Elsa. Elsa. Elsa, Are you in that coffin? I can't get it open. Elsa. Elsa. I'll have to get help. It'd take a crowbar to get this thing open. Elsa will have to give us away. Thank God.

[Karen Gazer]

What? Not quickly.

[Ilona Massey]

All right. Put your arm over my shoulder. Here we are.

[Karen Gazer]

Is he dead?

[Ilona Massey]

Yeah.

[Karen Gazer]

Search him. Quickly.

[Ralph Bell]

All right.

[Ilona Massey]

Take off his shoes.

[Karen Gazer]

All right.

[Ilona Massey]

Wait a minute. There's something here under his arm. I tear the sleeves. That matter?

[Karen Gazer]

No.

[Ilona Massey]

All right. Something taped to his body.

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, an envelope wrapping. Oil skin.

[Ilona Massey]

Yeah. What do we do now?

[Karen Gazer]

Get rid of his buddy.

[Ilona Massey]

In the coffin.

[Karen Gazer]

No.

[Ilona Massey]

What?

[Karen Gazer]

I've got a plan. Open the port hall. Quickly.

[Ilona Massey]

You mean throw him overboard?

[Karen Gazer]

Please don't ask questions. I know what I'm doing. He's a small man. Open the port hole. Quickly.

[Ilona Massey]

Right. There we are. All right.

[Karen Gazer]

Can you manage it?

[Ilona Massey]

He's not heavy. Hat, sir. Hustle. There. They've seen him.

[Karen Gazer]

In the coffin. Quick.

[Ilona Massey]

I don't understand. I.

[Karen Gazer]

The captain knows about you. German intelligence sent a cable warning him about a man named Borland. Get him. For two hours, the ship was in an uproar.

[Ilona Massey]

Bolts were lowered.

[Karen Gazer]

They searched the black, heavy Atlantic. Then they had a full ship's roll call, as I knew they would. Mr. Borland, of course, was missing. The captain looked at me with knowing eyes. Admiral Strassner was naturally not missed at the roll call. Corpses were not counted. The next morning, I ordered breakfast sent up as usual. Mr. Borland was very kind. He let me eat all of it. My first good meal in five days. Then we closed the coffin. Five members of the crew were pallbearers again. The captain arranged everything. They were about to carry the coffin down the gang plank when the customs men spoke to me.

[Ilona Massey]

I am sorry, Florent. While even with the exceptivity, we cannot allow a coffin to question without opening it.

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, Betty, I beg of you, show some consideration for a widow's grief.

[Ilona Massey]

It is important. I am sorry.

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, dear. Gentlemen, please. I beg of you. I beseech you to disturb the dead man.

[Ilona Massey]

Something the matter?

[Karen Gazer]

Oh, Captain von Spiegel, please, may I speak to you alone a moment?

[Ilona Massey]

Certainly. Come. Decree no tears. No tears. What is it?

[Karen Gazer]

They want to open it.

[Ilona Massey]

Were you responsible for balling and it.

[Karen Gazer]

Was true him overboard and he built to discuss him as tell with one look that Admiral St Is very much alive.

[Ilona Massey]

Leave it to me, gentlemen. I am sure that no customs official would be so silly as to question the personal guarantee of Edward von Spiegel, captain of the Bran.

[Karen Gazer]

So, Father, we got off the boat.

[Ilona Massey]

You did splendidly, Karen. You too, Borland. Thank you, sir.

[Karen Gazer]

And now, may I ask what Admiral Scar was carrying?

[Ilona Massey]

Yes. The detailed plans of the P38 fighter.

[Karen Gazer]

May I look?

[Ilona Massey]

Certainly.

[Karen Gazer]

Addressed to Wilhelm Messerschmik. Air Minister.

[Ralph Bell]

You have just heard Ilona Massey starring in the new NBC presentation Top Secret. And here she is to tell you about next week's show.

[Karen Gazer]

Next week's story concerns a blind beggar in the bazaar of the Singing Fountain in Tangiers and the little boy of ten with gray hair. It is a story that has been, until now, top secret.

[Ralph Bell]

You have just heard Ilona Massey starring in the new NBC transcribed presentation Top Secret. The script was written, directed and produced by Harry W. Junkins. Featured with Ms. Massey was Ralph Bell as Admiral Strassner. Others in the cast were Scott Tennyson, Leon Janney, Louis Van Roten, Connie Lemke and Lionel Williams Wilson. The music was composed and conducted by Dr. Roy Shields. This is Fred Collins speaking.

[Karen Gazer]

Every.

[Ralph Bell]

This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.