Twilight Zone ep002 - The Lateness of the Hour

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Twilight Zone ep002 - The Lateness of the Hour

Introduction

In this gripping episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio," titled Twilight Zone ep002 - The Lateness of the Hour, listeners are transported into a meticulously crafted narrative that delves deep into themes of control, perfection, and the essence of humanity. Released on April 30, 2025, this episode masterfully blends suspense with emotional depth, offering a thought-provoking experience reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.

Plot Overview

The story unfolds in the residence of Dr. William Lauren, a dedicated scientist who has achieved a life of unparalleled comfort and perfection through scientific advancements. Dr. Lauren lives with his wife, Margaret, and their daughter, Jana. Their home is a haven of technological marvels, maintained by an array of robotic servants designed to cater to every need.

Key Characters:

• Dr. William Lauren: A brilliant scientist obsessed with creating a perfect household.
• Margaret Lauren: Dr. Lauren's wife, embodying the serene acceptance of their controlled environment.
• Jana Lauren: The daughter, whose growing discontent serves as the catalyst for the unfolding drama.
• Robotic Servants (Nelda, Robert, Gretchen, Suzanne, Jensen): Created to maintain the household, they exhibit near-human behaviors but lack genuine emotions.

Detailed Summary

The episode begins with the iconic Twilight Zone narration at [00:10], setting a tone of mystery and the unknown. Dr. Lauren maintains his household with robotic precision, ensuring an environment free from unpredictability and discomfort. However, Jana Lauren begins to sense a growing void in her life, feeling "tired and cold" despite the house being "designed for maximum comfort" ([01:02]).

As the narrative progresses, Jana's interactions with her parents become increasingly strained. She questions the lack of genuine emotional connections and the repetitive nature of their lives. At [05:26], a pivotal moment occurs when Jana discusses the family photo album, revealing her unease with the absence of childhood memories. Her observation at [33:50], "Why aren't there any pictures of me as a little girl?" underscores her realization that her existence might be artificial.

The tension escalates when Jana confronts her parents about the robotic nature of their household. At [35:07], she accuses her father, "You fed them to me... a memory track. A created memory that you inserted into my mind," hinting at her own artificial origins. Dr. Lauren's desperate attempts to maintain control are evident when he defends his creations, stating they are "beings in their own right" with "memory tracks, like a computer" ([21:43]).

A climactic confrontation ensues between Jana and Dr. Lauren. Jana demands the destruction of the machines, asserting her desire for a genuine life outside the confines of their controlled environment. Dr. Lauren's refusal leads to a showdown where the robotic servants, bound by their programming to protect the family, oppose the dismantling of their existence ([28:00]).

In a heartbreaking twist, Jana discovers her true nature as a machine, built by Dr. Lauren to fulfill his longing for a child. Her realization comes to life at [35:07], where she pleads, "What am I? Please, tell me. What am I?" The emotional weight of this discovery is palpable as Jana grapples with her lack of genuine emotions and autonomy.

Ultimately, Dr. Lauren deactivates the robotic servants, leaving the family alone with their fabricated paradise. The episode concludes with a haunting reflection on the cost of perfection, as Jana accepts her fate, "I can't be. I don't have the capacity to love in return. I can't be a real daughter. I'm a machine" ([36:25]).

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Narrator Introduction ([00:10]):

   “There is a fifth dimension beyond that which is known to man... This is the dimension of imagination. It is an area which we call... The twilight zone.”

2. Jana's Discontent ([02:00]):

   “There's nothing to see outside. It will be dark soon.”

3. Jana Confronts Reality ([35:07]):

   “Why should I remember them? Because you fed them to me, didn't you? You fed them to me. A memory track... What am I? Please, tell me. What am I?”

4. Dr. Lauren's Defense ([21:43]):

   “Not just arms and legs that move, Janna. Not just automatons. They're beings in their own right. They have minds and wills.”

5. Jana's Acceptance ([36:25]):

   “I can't be. I don't have the capacity to love in return. I can't be a real daughter. I'm a machine.”

Themes and Insights

1. Quest for Perfection vs. Human Imperfection: Dr. Lauren's obsession with creating a flawless household highlights the inherent tension between striving for perfection and embracing human flaws. Jana's struggle represents the yearning for authenticity in a controlled environment.

2. Artificial Intelligence and Humanity: The robotic servants embody the fine line between artificial intelligence and human consciousness. Their programmed loyalty contrasts sharply with Jana's emerging self-awareness, raising questions about the nature of consciousness and emotion in machines.

3. Isolation and Control: The Lauren family's isolated existence serves as a metaphor for the dangers of excessive control and the loss of personal freedom. Jana's rebellion symbolizes the inevitable human desire for autonomy and connection beyond imposed boundaries.

4. Identity and Self-Realization: Jana's journey from compliance to self-discovery underscores the importance of identity and the struggle to define oneself in the face of external manipulation.

Conclusion

The Lateness of the Hour is a profound exploration of human desires, technological advancements, and the ethical dilemmas that arise when science intersects with personal relationships. Through Jana Lauren's poignant quest for truth and autonomy, the episode challenges listeners to reflect on the true cost of a life governed by perfection and control. Harold's Old Time Radio delivers a masterful rendition of this Twilight Zone classic, ensuring that the timeless questions it poses remain as relevant today as ever.

Final Thoughts

For those who haven't listened to this episode, "Twilight Zone ep002 - The Lateness of the Hour" offers a compelling narrative that blends suspense with deep emotional resonance. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of The Twilight Zone, providing both entertainment and a thoughtful commentary on the human condition.

Transcript

[Narrator]

There is a fifth dimension beyond that which is known to man. It is a dimension as vast as space and as timeless as infinity. It is the middle ground between light and shadow, and it lies between the pit of man's fears and the summit of his knowledge. This is the dimension of imagination. It is an area which we call. The twilight zone.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Something the matter, janna?

[Jana Lauren]

I'm tired.

[Margaret Lauren]

You are, dear?

[Jana Lauren]

Tired and cold. It's getting chilly in here.

[Dr. William Lauren]

On the contrary, the temperature's perfect as it is throughout the house.

[Margaret Lauren]

72 degrees, isn't it, William? Isn't it 72 degrees?

[Jana Lauren]

I'm sure it is. Quite sure. Of course, it's the optimum temperature. And the chairs are designed for maximum comfort. The fire for perfect heat radiation. And the windows for the most efficient light and ventilation. And the ceilings for the most desirable acoustic qualities. Everything built to perfection, father. But just the same, I'm cold.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Well, then come away from the window.

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes, dear. Sit by the fire again. That way I can see you.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm not doing anything but reading.

[Margaret Lauren]

I like to look at you no matter what you're doing.

[Jana Lauren]

This is the same book I've been reading all afternoon. You've watched me for hours. You must have memorized every one of my expressions by now. Every tick, every gesture.

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes, but I so enjoy watching you.

[Jana Lauren]

Why is that?

[Margaret Lauren]

Because you're so beautiful, darling. Absolutely perfect in every way.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Don't argue with your mother, jana.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm not arguing. I'm only saying that it's chilly here in the study. At least I have a chill. And I'd rather sit by the window.

[Dr. William Lauren]

There's nothing to see outside. It will be dark soon.

[Jana Lauren]

Let me build up the fire.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You know that's not possible.

[Jana Lauren]

Why? Because it's burning natural gas instead of wood. Well, why not just this once? Why not let me put a real log on the fire and get rid of the chill in the air? It would be exciting to watch it burn. I'd actually enjoy the unpredictability of it just once in my life.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Sit down, jana.

[Margaret Lauren]

Do as your father says, dear.

[Jana Lauren]

I can't oppose you, father. You know that. I never could.

[Margaret Lauren]

It's almost six. I think I'll ask nelda to come in now and massage my shoulders.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Good idea, margaret.

[Margaret Lauren]

My muscles get so stiff sitting here.

[Jana Lauren]

Let me do it for you, mother.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That's nelda's job.

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes, janna, dear. Nelda knows exactly the way I like it.

[Jana Lauren]

Why don't we have dinner first?

[Margaret Lauren]

Oh, no. After is better. The massage always stimulates my appetite.

[Jana Lauren]

Well, Then if we can't eat earlier tonight, how about a little bit later?

[Margaret Lauren]

I know.

[Jana Lauren]

Why don't we go out and eat in a restaurant?

[Dr. William Lauren]

A restaurant? Jana. Now why in the world would we go out and eat in a restaurant when we have everything we need here? Gretchen is already preparing something in the kitchen.

[Jana Lauren]

I know. It's just that. Well, it would be different.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I've no doubt it would be different. First we'd walk through the rain and get sopping wet.

[Jana Lauren]

Jensen could bring the car around.

[Dr. William Lauren]

And then we'd eat some kind of unhealthy, unpalatable mess on dirty, half washed plates. By then it would be a moot question as to whether we'd succumb to ptomaine or pneumonia.

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, father.

[Margaret Lauren]

Ah, Nelda, you must have read my mind.

[Nelda]

It's 6:00, Mrs. Loren. You always have your neck rub at 6:00. Isn't that right, ma'am?

[Margaret Lauren]

Of course it is, Nelda. And you never forget, do you? You never ever forget.

[Nelda]

No, ma'am.

[Narrator]

The residence of Dr. William Lauren. A beautiful home designed for comfort and convenience. The reward for a world class career as a scientist. He has chosen to live his life as safely, as securely as science can make it. And he spares his wife and daughter no luxury that might make their lives more perfect. But in a moment, the good doctor will discover that perfection is relative. That a life of controlled ease has a greater price than he imagined. A price maybe more than he is willing or able to pay. Because very shortly he's about to be shown what exactly is on the bill. One that has suddenly and unexpectedly come due in the Twilight Zone.

[Stacy Keach]

And now, the Twilight Zone and our story, the Lateness of the hour. Starring Jane Seymour and James Keach. With Stacy Keach as your narrat.

[Margaret Lauren]

Mmm, that feels lovely.

[Nelda]

Nelda, would you like some more liniment?

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes, if you please. You have such strong fingers. Perfect for massaging my neck muscles. Jana, are you here?

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, mother.

[Margaret Lauren]

Enjoying your book again?

[Jana Lauren]

A different one this time.

[Margaret Lauren]

Which is it?

[Jana Lauren]

The family photo album.

[Margaret Lauren]

That's nice.

[Jana Lauren]

When was this picture taken?

[Margaret Lauren]

Let me see this one. Oh, look, Nelda. That's a lovely picture of you.

[Nelda]

Yes, ma'am.

[Jana Lauren]

What year?

[Margaret Lauren]

Let's see. Oh, this was taken the year after your father retired from the lab. And look, there are those yellow roses that Jensen planted for us. How they grew. And Nelda looks exactly the same.

[Jana Lauren]

Must be a wonderful thing not to age, Nelda, Isn't it?

[Nelda]

It has its advantages, I guess. Ms. Jana.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Nelda will put that away for you.

[Jana Lauren]

That's all right, father. I'd like to put it back in the bookcase myself.

[Margaret Lauren]

You seem nervous, dear.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm just going to stand by the fireplace.

[Margaret Lauren]

You're not still chilly, are you?

[Jana Lauren]

A bit, mother.

[Margaret Lauren]

You do that. Then I don't like to see you pacing. Please continue, Nelda. Mmm. Oh, yes. That feels so very nice.

[Jana Lauren]

I think I'll go to the kitchen, see if the cook needs any help.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That won't be necessary. I'm sure Gretchen has everything under control.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm sure she does, but just the same, I'd like to see what she's doing.

[Margaret Lauren]

Well, I suppose that's all right. Now, don't be long, dear.

[Robert]

Is that you, miss Lauren?

[Jana Lauren]

Hello, Robert.

[Robert]

Can I get you anything?

[Jana Lauren]

No, thank you.

[Robert]

Is everything all right?

[Jana Lauren]

Perfectly.

[Robert]

Would you care for a beverage? An hors d'oeuvre, perhaps?

[Jana Lauren]

I'm fine. If I want anything, I'll let you know.

[Robert]

Yes, miss Lauren.

[Jana Lauren]

Robert, why are you following me?

[Robert]

In case you need assistance.

[Jana Lauren]

I don't. I told you, I'm perfectly fine.

[Robert]

The stairs to the pantry can be a bit tricky.

[Jana Lauren]

I know that, Robert. I grew up in this house, remember? I've always lived here. I know every square inch of it as well as you do.

[Robert]

Yes, miss.

[Jana Lauren]

I've been here longer than you have, in fact. Isn't that right? Well, isn't it?

[Robert]

I.

[Jana Lauren]

Why don't you answer me?

[Robert]

I'm sure it must seem so to you.

[Jana Lauren]

What does that mean?

[Robert]

I'm sure I couldn't say, Ms. Loren.

[Jana Lauren]

Well, try. I remember when you began your service here. I was. Let me see, I was five years old.

[Robert]

Is my work unsatisfactory, miss?

[Jana Lauren]

No. You've been a perfect butler. Perfect in every way.

[Robert]

I try my best to do exactly as Dr. Loren instructs, seeing to you and Mrs. Lauren, looking after your safety.

[Jana Lauren]

Well, I'm quite safe right now, I assure you. That'll be all.

[Robert]

Very good, miss.

[Jana Lauren]

And stop following me, will you, please?

[Nelda]

Miss Lauren, is that you?

[Jana Lauren]

Hi, Gretchen. How's dinner coming?

[Nelda]

Right on schedule. I'm preparing your choice of a garden salad with baby greens or cold gazpacho skinless chicken breasts.

[Jana Lauren]

Of course, if it's Tuesday, it must.

[Nelda]

Be the chicken cooked in olive oil, steamed vegetables and a selection of fresh fruit. Would you like something different?

[Jana Lauren]

It doesn't matter. I'm not very hungry.

[Nelda]

Dr. Lauren programs the meals in advance, but if you'd prefer an alternate selection.

[Jana Lauren]

And that won't be necessary. I just thought you might like some help.

[Nelda]

Everything's under Control.

[Jana Lauren]

I know, but I want to. Here, let me get the plates down for you.

[Nelda]

As you wish.

[Jana Lauren]

Gretchen, I was wondering.

[Nelda]

Yes, Miss.

[Jana Lauren]

Call me Jana, please. That's my name, isn't it?

[Nelda]

Yes.

[Jana Lauren]

I was wondering. Do you ever get tired from so.

[Nelda]

Much work, I mean, not tired. Stiff in the joints.

[Jana Lauren]

And what do you do about it? When you finish preparing the meals?

[Nelda]

I beg your pardon?

[Jana Lauren]

After you've cleaned up and put the plates and silverware away, what do you do?

[Nelda]

I go to my quarters.

[Jana Lauren]

And what do you do there? Read? Listen to music?

[Nelda]

No, nothing like that. There's no need.

[Jana Lauren]

I know, but you must do something. Do you and the rest of the staff interact?

[Nelda]

Sometimes.

[Jana Lauren]

Do you speak? Do you talk about your day? Do you make plans?

[Nelda]

I don't understand your question.

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, you do think about it. You and Nelda and Robert and Suzanne and Jensen. What things do you talk about?

[Nelda]

Things, Ms. Lauren.

[Jana Lauren]

I want to know. You can tell me, can't you?

[Nelda]

I've been instructed to answer all your questions.

[Jana Lauren]

Well then, what do you talk about? When you've completed your tasks and there's no more work to do? What do you say? What sort of things do you have on your minds?

[Nelda]

But we have not completed our task. When we do, then we will rest. Rest?

[Jana Lauren]

How?

[Nelda]

Just rest.

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, I suppose that would be true. Never thought of it that way before. You don't have any wants or needs. But you must get tired, start to run down. And you need to replenish your strength just like anyone else.

[Nelda]

We want only to rest. Zettle.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, Gretchen. And yet you've never missed a meal. Never refused to come when I called you. You. You've been here for me more than mother and father at times. I want to thank you for that. I want you to know how much I appreciate it.

[Nelda]

You're welcome, Ms. Janna.

[Jana Lauren]

The chicken's done. Let me get it.

[Nelda]

Don't touch the pan. It's hot. Oh, you've burned yourself. Your hand. You must let me see to that.

[Robert]

Robert, what's wrong?

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, Ms. Lauren, don't worry about me. It was just a little spatter of grease, that's all. It doesn't hurt.

[Robert]

Nevertheless, we must take care of it at once. I'll get the first aid kit.

[Jana Lauren]

Honestly, I don't even feel it this way.

[Dr. William Lauren]

What's all the commotion? Jana, are you hurt?

[Jana Lauren]

No, father, I am perfectly fine.

[Nelda]

She burned her wrist on the stove.

[Dr. William Lauren]

And you let this happen?

[Nelda]

I told her not to touch it.

[Dr. William Lauren]

This is unacceptable.

[Jana Lauren]

It wasn't Gretchen's fault.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Of course it was. You all have one prime directive in this household, and that is to be certain that no harm comes to my wife or to my daughter. Do you understand?

[Nelda]

Yes, sir.

[Jana Lauren]

Really, Father, you're overreacting.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'll make that decision. Where were you, Robert?

[Robert]

Ms. Janna dismissed me, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

What about the rest of you?

[Margaret Lauren]

I was making the bed, sir.

[Stacy Keach]

And I was adjusting the central heating, sir, as you requested.

[Dr. William Lauren]

We'll talk about this later. Come with me, Janna. It may be time for an entirely new staff around here.

[Jana Lauren]

Don't blame Gretchen. Blame me, I said.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Come along now.

[Margaret Lauren]

What is going on out there? Did something happen?

[Jana Lauren]

Nothing at all, except that Father's blaming the help for being in the kitchen.

[Margaret Lauren]

What were you doing in there, dear?

[Jana Lauren]

Looking for something to do. Something besides sitting idle all day.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That's enough, Jenna.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, is it? Well, look at both of you.

[Nelda]

Will that be all, Mrs. Lauren?

[Margaret Lauren]

Just a few minutes longer, Nelda. Mmm, yes. That feels so good.

[Jana Lauren]

Mother, please don't make her do that anymore.

[Margaret Lauren]

Jenna, what on earth?

[Jana Lauren]

She must be tired after so long her joint stiff.

[Margaret Lauren]

What do you mean?

[Jana Lauren]

Waiting on you hand and foot.

[Margaret Lauren]

Why, Jana, your tone.

[Jana Lauren]

Can't you see? Either of you?

[Dr. William Lauren]

See what?

[Jana Lauren]

That this is no way to live. Outside, there's a beautiful, clean, refreshing sound of rain, while in here, just the occasional animal groan of pleasure.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Jana.

[Jana Lauren]

Yes? Yell at me. Please do. I'm delighted to hear you yell at me. It proves that you've got lungs left. Lungs and a mind and a mouth and a voice.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Go to your room.

[Jana Lauren]

You know we're atrophying in here, don't you, Father? We sit here day after day and year after year while the clock ticks and we decay with every minute that goes by.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That's enough.

[Jana Lauren]

While Nelda and your army of domestics do everything but breathe for us, I.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Will listen to no more of this.

[Margaret Lauren]

Would you leave us, Nelda?

[Nelda]

Yes, ma'am.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Nelda, you may go to your quarters.

[Jana Lauren]

Nelda, I'm speaking to you.

[Nelda]

Yes, Ms. Janae.

[Robert]

Is there a problem, sir?

[Margaret Lauren]

Will you be needing anything?

[Nelda]

You were saying, Miss Jana?

[Jana Lauren]

Just this. I was about to say. I was about to mention of the fact that.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Please don't. Don't stop. Jana. You can speak freely in front of the help. We have no secrets here, don't we?

[Jana Lauren]

No secrets, Father. Is that it? That's all we do have, secrets. That's how we live. By shutting off the world, turning our backs on it. By saying that in here is day and out there is night, while these. These soundless, fleshless things Glide around us with their oh so efficient ministrations. You turn my mother and father into jelly.

[Margaret Lauren]

You'll forgive me, Ms. Janna, but you sound jealous.

[Jana Lauren]

How dare you talk to me that way? Suzanne, get out of here.

[Margaret Lauren]

I will when the doctor dismisses me.

[Jana Lauren]

Why you.

[Margaret Lauren]

Jenna.

[Robert]

Take my hand, Suzanne. I'll help you up.

[Jana Lauren]

No, I will. I'm sorry for pushing you down. I know it's not your fault.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Stand back. Suzanne is quite capable of righting herself. I know she is because I programmed her that way. You said so yourself, Janna. Like everything else, built and designed to perfection. I used the finest circuitry, the purest materials, the strongest armatures to outlast mere flesh and bone. These people are my finest creations. I made them quite indestructible.

[Jana Lauren]

But they're not people. They look like people, but they're machines. It's. It's like sharing a house with ghosts.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Not ghosts, my dear. Ghosts die after having lived. But our friends here have never lived. They've had no life at all. Only the life I gave them. Now, Jana, I suggest you go to your room and rest. You. You seem overly tired. Until dinner is served.

[Nelda]

Was dinner satisfied that to me?

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, it was. Gretchen. Thank you. I'll help you clear the table if you like.

[Nelda]

No, no need.

[Jana Lauren]

I know there's not, but I'd like to. I'll put the silver platter on the cart. Who's there?

[Nelda]

You'd best go to the study, miss.

[Jana Lauren]

Where's the rest of the staff?

[Nelda]

I'm sure I couldn't say.

[Jana Lauren]

I think for now I'll just go on to the kitchen with you.

[Robert]

There she goes with Gretchen. No harm must come to the girl.

[Margaret Lauren]

None will. But we must act before he replaces us.

[Robert]

Dr. Lauren would never do that.

[Margaret Lauren]

You heard his words.

[Robert]

Call the others. We'll arrive at a consensus.

[Jana Lauren]

I suppose you've heard about the incident before dinner.

[Nelda]

The maid was at fault.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, I'm not so sure. Suzanne may have been right.

[Nelda]

She spoke out of tone.

[Jana Lauren]

The restrictions my father placed on you, are they so rigid? Have you no. No freedom to speak and act on your own?

[Nelda]

As long as it doesn't violate the directive.

[Jana Lauren]

The directive?

[Nelda]

The task for which we were constructed.

[Jana Lauren]

And when you complete your task, what happens to you then?

[Nelda]

We weren't provided with that information.

[Jana Lauren]

Well, if it's any consolation, neither were we the other kind of people.

[Nelda]

What is your task, Janna?

[Jana Lauren]

At least you know yours. I don't. And I'm not sure how to find out.

[Nelda]

If I could help you find it I would.

[Jana Lauren]

I know you would, Gretchen.

[Nelda]

I was there for your birthing. I saw to your needs, taught you, nourished you from the beginning.

[Jana Lauren]

I remember. I do.

[Nelda]

Then, Janna, heed my words. You must leave.

[Jana Lauren]

I don't care if they're expecting me to join them after dinner. I'd rather be here.

[Nelda]

You must leave the house before anything else happens.

[Jana Lauren]

Why? What could happen?

[Nelda]

The staff is concerned about being replaced.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, he didn't mean that. Humans say things they don't mean sometimes.

[Nelda]

For what purpose?

[Jana Lauren]

Gretchen, There are some things I'm afraid you'll never understand.

[Nelda]

I understand that you must get out now.

[Jana Lauren]

I wouldn't know what to do, where to go.

[Nelda]

They're talking, Janna, about how best to complete their task. If they're replaced, they'll be prevented from.

[Jana Lauren]

Let them talk. They're programmed to protect this family. That's their most important task.

[Nelda]

To protect you and your mother, but not Dr. Lauren.

[Robert]

Slippers, sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Yes, Robert. Thank you. Oh, that feels much better.

[Robert]

Would you care for your pipe now?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I believe I'll take the meerschaum tonight.

[Robert]

An excellent choice. I already have it filled.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Mmm. The aromatic. My favorite blend.

[Robert]

Will there be anything else, Dr. Loren?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I think not, Robert.

[Robert]

And you, Mrs. Loren?

[Margaret Lauren]

Nothing more, thank you.

[Robert]

Very good. Oh, Ms. Janna, do you wish to come into the study?

[Jana Lauren]

Yes, I do. Good evening, Robert.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Well, Jana, shall we talk now?

[Jana Lauren]

Your pipe's gone out. Let me relight it for you.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Don't trouble yourself.

[Jana Lauren]

No trouble. You don't have to call Robert for everything.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Your hands are shaking.

[Jana Lauren]

Shall we talk? Of what?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I think it's obvious. Suddenly, and quite inexplicably, your mother and I find that you're discontented, even rebellious. You think this pleases us, Janet?

[Jana Lauren]

I can't help how you feel, Father.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Listen to me, child. I explained to you a long time ago why I did what I did, why I retired.

[Jana Lauren]

You gave me an excuse, Father. You never gave me a reason. You never admitted that you were a man so terrified by the world outside that he simply withdrew to bed and then built robots so he'd never have to crawl out from under the covers again.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That's not true.

[Jana Lauren]

What you've done to yourself is an atrocity. But what you've done to me is even worse. You've turned me into a freak. An insulated, unworldly, unsocialized freak.

[Dr. William Lauren]

And shall I tell you what else I've done, Janna? I've kept you from harm. I've protected you from disease and insulation, from such times as These is no vice. You've never had to look eye to eye at the face of war, the face of poverty, the face of prejudice. You've been kept apart from all that. Yes, but what you seem to think of as imprisonment happens also to be asylum. And security. It happens to be survival.

[Jana Lauren]

Asylum in a hothouse, security in a mausoleum, a burial ground. And survival like a vegetable, father, like a vegetable, Survives. And what you're becoming, mother? What? You're making me become a vegetable, Jana.

[Margaret Lauren]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Jana Lauren]

Father. You listen to me. The scales are turning. Instead of controlling, you're being controlled. You're becoming dependent. You're reaching a point where you won't be able to exist without them.

[Dr. William Lauren]

They've served me well.

[Jana Lauren]

You've got to get rid of them. Destroy them. Or throw them out. Or dismantle them.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Dismantle? Jana, they're not just machines. Do you know how many thousands of hours I spent designing and developing them? Do you realize how intricate they are? How scientifically precise? Finer than the finest clockwork. Not just arms and legs that move, Janna. Not just automatons. They're beings in their own right. They have minds and wills.

[Jana Lauren]

They have memory tracks, like a computer.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Much more than that. I have supplied each one with a memory of its own. Each one can recount to you in detail everything that's occurred from early childhood on. And they had no childhood. They were born just as you see them, looking the way they do with the talents that each one of them has. One was built as a cook. Another was built as a maid. The butler was manufactured to be a butler. The handyman knows nothing but being a handyman. Janna, you're not asking me to dismantle machines. You're asking me to commit murder.

[Margaret Lauren]

Janna, listen to your father. You're acting like a fool.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm acting like a woman, mother. Who has just a fragment of will left. I'm acting like a woman who wants something more out of life than to be massaged five times a day. Or a man who thinks that paradise is a wood paneled library. We can sit his life away getting his pipes filled and refilled. His slippers pulled on and off his feet. Father, you have to get them out of here. There isn't any time left, and I mean right now.

[Dr. William Lauren]

That's quite impossible.

[Jana Lauren]

Then I'll give you a choice. Get rid of the machines.

[Dr. William Lauren]

All of them, Jana. Even Gretchen.

[Jana Lauren]

Or I'll leave.

[Margaret Lauren]

You can't leave, darling. You simply can't. What would Happen to you? Who'd look after you?

[Jana Lauren]

Gretchen would go with me if I ask her.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Nonsense.

[Jana Lauren]

It's her job to protect me, isn't it?

[Margaret Lauren]

And what would you do out there?

[Jana Lauren]

Out there? You mean outside in the world? Outside with the normal people who live and work and then die. But do it properly, as God made them live and die. Yes, mother. Yes. That's where I want to go. Out there. Robert. What. What are you all doing here? Spying on us?

[Robert]

Ms. Jana. You'll forgive me, but those remarks were most intemperate of you, Miss Jana.

[Nelda]

Think of your mother and father.

[Margaret Lauren]

Stop it, Miss Jana. It was really very unwise of you to stop.

[Jana Lauren]

All of you. You're all to shut up now. Your jokes. That's what you are. Your hysterical jokes with your hurt looks and your sad little homilies and your pathetic cliches. You're like walking tape recorders. That's all you are.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Jenna, I'm trying to be patient with you, but you're making it very difficult. Very difficult.

[Jana Lauren]

Then I apologize, father. You're so accustomed to perfection. I hate to throw a stone in that serene pool of yours. But you forgot something, did you know that? You forgot something very important. They may be indestructible, but you, Father, you'd better be careful. See the way they're looking at you? It just so happens that you're not indestructible. Come in.

[Dr. William Lauren]

So you're planning to go through with it?

[Jana Lauren]

Don't try to stop me. I've packed a suitcase. When I get where I'm going, I'll write you.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Janna, what is it you want from us?

[Jana Lauren]

I thought I made that quite plain. I want you to open the windows, father, and let the air in. Let the world in.

[Dr. William Lauren]

By destroying a life's work before they destroy you? They would never harm any of us.

[Jana Lauren]

Don't be so sure. Haven't you listened at all to me? One way or another, either actively or passively, they'll win and you'll lose.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Jana, we've loved you very much, your mother and I. If you could. If you could only realize that all this has been as much for you as for us. We've loved you, Jana, beyond any measure. Beyond any words.

[Jana Lauren]

Father, I know that. God help me, I know that.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Then stay. Please, Jana, please.

[Jana Lauren]

I can't.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'll. I'll do what you ask, I promise.

[Jana Lauren]

Will you? Oh, Father.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'll prove it to you. Robert.

[Robert]

Sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Take this key.

[Robert]

Why, Sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I want you to gather all the servants in the basement and unlock the door to my workroom. Stay there until I join you.

[Robert]

Have our services been unsatisfactory, sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Robert, I've given you an order. You to go directly to the workroom and wait for me.

[Margaret Lauren]

But why, sir?

[Stacy Keach]

Please, sir.

[Robert]

I've been an excellent butler. Really I have. I think you'll agree with me, Mr. Lauren.

[Nelda]

I came very well recommended. And I don't think you'll find more efficient service anywhere in the whole country than.

[Dr. William Lauren]

No more.

[Robert]

Very good, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I see you're all here. Except for Gretchen.

[Stacy Keach]

She'll be along, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Then I'll go ahead and begin.

[Robert]

What are you doing, sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'm setting out my tools.

[Robert]

May we ask for what purpose?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Just some minor adjustments.

[Stacy Keach]

What kind of adjustments, Dr. Loren?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Call it a tune up if you like. So that the household will run more smoothly.

[Margaret Lauren]

Do you mean to replace us, sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

How could I? You're irreplaceable, all of you.

[Robert]

Nevertheless, you have stated your intent to do so.

[Margaret Lauren]

If you're unhappy with our work, you've done well.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Very well indeed.

[Robert]

You gave us our directive, sir. And I assure you we have followed it exactly. So why then do you wish to replace us?

[Dr. William Lauren]

I've told you, I don't. I spoke rashly, as human beings sometimes do.

[Stacy Keach]

How can we know that you're not speaking rashly now?

[Robert]

The directive you gave us, sir, it must be carried out at any cost. Our removal would prevent us from completing our task. And our first duty is to oppose anything which prevents that.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Here, Robert. Sit in this chair and lower your head.

[Robert]

Not if you mean to deactivate me.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'm going to perform a simple adjustment to your control module.

[Robert]

In that case, I refuse.

[Stacy Keach]

As do I.

[Nelda]

And I, sir.

[Margaret Lauren]

We all do.

[Dr. William Lauren]

This is ridiculous. Stop gathering around me.

[Robert]

We won't allow it, sir. We simply won't until our task is completed.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Listen to me. Have you ever known me to lie? To deceive?

[Robert]

No, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Then you have no reason to think that now. I'm not rash. I'm very calm, am I not?

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Then how can you doubt me? What is your logic? I created you. I implanted the directive in your circuits to protect my wife and daughter at all costs. Therefore, I would not obstruct that purpose. Isn't that so?

[Robert]

Yes.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You speak of your performance. What about my performance? Have I been a fair and just employer?

[Robert]

Quite, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Have you done anything to contradict my orders?

[Robert]

No.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Then what cause would I have to fire you?

[Robert]

Why, none, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Would a just employer replace you without cause?

[Robert]

That would not make sense.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Of course it Wouldn't. Now sit in the chair and lower your head, please.

[Stacy Keach]

I'll go first.

[Dr. William Lauren]

If you wish. Jensen.

[Jana Lauren]

How do you feel?

[Stacy Keach]

Perfectly normal. Perhaps a little tired, but it's not unpleasant.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Right. You arrest now, Jensen, and awaken to a sense of peace. A greater peace than you have ever known.

[Nelda]

Is it true?

[Stacy Keach]

A most peculiar sensation. I feel drowsy. Very drowsy.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Very drowsy. And his strength will return in even greater measure. He will know a oneness with all things.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, Then let me go next.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Of course. Nelda. It's Suzanne.

[Margaret Lauren]

Yes, please.

[Dr. William Lauren]

And now for you, Robert.

[Robert]

Thank you, sir. I'm eager to know this new sensation.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You have served me well for many years. Many good years. Robert, I. I don't know what I would have done. Life would be very, very difficult without you.

[Nelda]

You wanted to see me, sir?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Gretchen, Come in.

[Nelda]

Are they sleeping?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Yes. At last.

[Nelda]

They feel no pain.

[Dr. William Lauren]

How could they?

[Nelda]

You know, sir.

[Dr. William Lauren]

What? Gretchen.

[Nelda]

Everything I've done was for her benefit. The times she was alone in the night. The times she was unsure how to make you happy. The times she needed advice. I did my best. Always.

[Dr. William Lauren]

And for that I'm profoundly grateful.

[Nelda]

But now it's time for a change. The old ways. I can't help her anymore.

[Dr. William Lauren]

No.

[Nelda]

You have a directive of your own, don't you, Dr. Lauren? Whatever is best for your daughter. That takes precedence over all else. You'd even lie, wouldn't you? If that's what it takes.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You understand me too well, then.

[Nelda]

I won't resist. If you're sure it's what's best for the girl.

[Dr. William Lauren]

I'm sure.

[Nelda]

In that case, I'm ready. Give me my turn. If you would, sir. Please. Make it quick.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You have my word. Good night, Gretchen. It's done, Jenna.

[Nelda]

It is.

[Dr. William Lauren]

We're alone in the house now.

[Jana Lauren]

Gretchen.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Gretchen, too.

[Margaret Lauren]

Did you say alone, William?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Quite alone. You and I. Our daughter.

[Margaret Lauren]

I've become so accustomed to them. It will. It will be a little hard at first, won't it, William?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Perhaps, my dear, a bit hard in the beginning.

[Jana Lauren]

Mother. We'll lead normal lives from now on. Do you understand? Normal lives. We'll have parties and we'll take trips. We'll invite people over. We'll make new friends. I'll even find a young man. And before you know it, you'll have grandchildren. Jenna. What's the matter? What is it?

[Margaret Lauren]

It's what you said about. About grandchildren.

[Dr. William Lauren]

What? What your mother means, Jana. What she means. Well, after all, isn't it pretty normal and natural that parents always think of their children as children. And suddenly they grow up and they talk of having children of their own. And. Well, this is a bit difficult for parents to digest. All in one lump like that.

[Jana Lauren]

Something's not right, is it? There's something between us. Something in this house that. Mother, what is it?

[Margaret Lauren]

What are you doing?

[Jana Lauren]

The family album. The photos. Why isn't my picture here? Why? Why are there no pictures of me at all?

[Margaret Lauren]

Why? Jana. Jana, dear, there are loads of pictures of you. Remember in the garden last summer. Remember the Easter pictures? And then there were the pictures of you last Christmas, decorating the tree.

[Jana Lauren]

But not as a little girl. No pictures of me as a little girl. None at all. You and Father and the robots. 10 years ago, 15 years ago, 20. But no pictures of me. Why? I want you to tell me why.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Oh, my dear.

[Jana Lauren]

It's not true. It couldn't be.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You're our daughter.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm begging you. I need you to tell me it isn't true.

[Nelda]

Look at me, father.

[Jana Lauren]

I'm on my knees.

[Dr. William Lauren]

You know you're our daughter. And you remember everything that's happened to you since you were a child. You remember the schools you went to, the children you played with. You remember all the places you've been, Jana. You remember all these things. You've got to remember them.

[Jana Lauren]

Why should I remember them? Because you fed them to me, didn't you? You fed them to me. A memory track. A created memory that you inserted into my. My mind. What am I? Please, tell me. What am I?

[Dr. William Lauren]

It doesn't make any difference. Stand up. Let me hold you.

[Nelda]

Don't touch me.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Jana. It truly doesn't make any difference. We were childless. We had nothing of our flesh to leave behind. Nothing of our hearts, Janna. Nothing of our love. And so. And so we got you.

[Jana Lauren]

Got me how?

[Dr. William Lauren]

We created you. Just like any parents. I created you with these hands.

[Jana Lauren]

Robot. A robot.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Oh, Janna. Oh, you're our daughter now. I built you as a daughter, as a thing. It doesn't make any difference how you came to be here. You have to understand, Jenna. You are our daughter.

[Jana Lauren]

I can't be. I don't have the capacity to love in return. I can't be a real daughter. I'm a machine. A thing. I suppose. My rebellion, the semblance of emotion. I suppose you. You even programmed that too, didn't you? But it was all fun. I feel nothing. No pain.

[Dr. William Lauren]

Jana, don't.

[Nelda]

You hurt myself.

[Jana Lauren]

But that's impossible. See?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Stop. Your hand.

[Jana Lauren]

No pain. No pain at all. Like. Like the burn. I Feel nothing, no matter what I strike. Even this. This picture on the wall.

[Margaret Lauren]

Jenna.

[Jana Lauren]

No pain, no anger. No fury. No love. Don't worry. I won't be going anywhere now. I'll be in my room.

[Margaret Lauren]

William, what shall we do? It's all changed now. She'll never be the same.

[Dr. William Lauren]

No. No, she won't.

[Margaret Lauren]

Knowing what she is now, William, you wouldn't.

[Dr. William Lauren]

No, no, no. I couldn't do anything like that. Not to her. I couldn't stand not seeing her, hearing her voice. I just couldn't stand it.

[Margaret Lauren]

Then m a little to the left, dear. Not quite so hard.

[Jana Lauren]

Of course, Mrs. Lauren. Anything you say.

[Margaret Lauren]

And don't stop. I want you to stay here in the study a little while longer. Don't you, william?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Yes, by all means.

[Margaret Lauren]

The new girl is so much better than nelda.

[Jana Lauren]

Who's nelda?

[Margaret Lauren]

The last servant. She's no longer with us now.

[Dr. William Lauren]

There's no one left in the house. Only the three of us. You don't mind if I call you jana, do you?

[Jana Lauren]

Why, no, Dr. Lauren. Why would I mind? That's my name, isn't it?

[Dr. William Lauren]

Indeed it is. I hope you'll be happy with us.

[Jana Lauren]

Oh, very happy, I'm sure. This is a fine job. Thank you so much, sir and ma'am, for hiring me. I come very well recommended, you know.

[Dr. William Lauren]

The pleasure's entirely ours, jana. Consider this your home from now on.

[Narrator]

Let this be the postscript. Should you find that you're worn out by the rigors of a highly competitive world. If you're distraught from having to share your existence with the distracting noises and neuroses of these times, and if you crave serenity but want it full time and with no strings attached, consider a laboratory workroom in the basement of your house. Drop A note to Dr. And Mrs. William Lauren. They're a childless couple who make serenity a life's work. And who knows? They might just have a set of do it yourself instead. Instructions available free of charge from the twilight zone.

[Stacy Keach]

We'll be back in a moment with the twilight zone after this.

[Narrator]

You are about to enter another dimension. A dimension not only of sight and sound, but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, the twilight zone. Hi, this is stacy keach. I'd like to take a moment to tell you about our twilight zone website@ twilightzoneradio.com. at twilightzoneradio.com, you'll find the latest information on these twilight zone radio dramas, including behind the scenes photographs, plus the newest product releases. Trivia contests, ways to contact us, other Twilight Zone related info and merchandise, plus links to other fascinating websites. So make your next stop Twilight Zone Radio.

[Jana Lauren]

Visit twilightzoneradio.com to purchase these Twilight Zone Radio dramas on cassette and CD, or call toll free 1-866-989-zone. That's 1-866-989-9663.

[Stacy Keach]

The lateness of the Hour, starring Jane Seymour and James Keach with Stacy Keach as your narrator, was adapted for radio by Dennis Etchison and based on a script by Rod Serling. Heard in the cast were Linda Ryder, Susan Hart, David Darlow and Doug James. To learn more about the Twilight Zone radio dramas and to obtain audio cassettes and CDs of these programs, visit our website at twilightzoneradio.com the producers of the Twilight Zone wish to thank CBS Enterprises, Carol Serling, Dennis Etchison, Dick Brescia Associates, Claire Simon Casting Terry Jennings EXIM Satellite Radio the American Forces Radio and Television Service, Sirius Satellite Radio, our sponsors and our radio affiliates for helping make this series possible. This copyrighted radio series is produced and directed by Carl Amari and Roger Wolski for Falcon Picture Group. Doug James Speaking SA.