Podcast Summary: "Terror In The Night" | Zero Hour 74-04-30 (067)
Podcast Information:
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Description: Reliving the Golden Age of Radio with classic shows like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more.
- Episode: Zero Hour 74-04-30 (067) Terror In The Night
- Release Date: May 1, 2025
Introduction to the Setting
In "Terror In The Night," listeners are transported to a quaint, near-Victorian house in Mariposa, California—a relic from the gold rush era. Once bustling with the Schofield family's lively presence, the house now serves as a seasonal tourist accommodation managed by Audrey Schofield and her granddaughter, Karen.
Timestamp Reference: [03:30]
Characters Introduced
- Audrey Schofield: The elderly matriarch who runs the tourist accommodations.
- Karen: Audrey’s granddaughter, who exhibits signs of anxiety and suspicion.
- Steve Lewis: A mysterious and ostensibly charming traveler seeking lodging.
- Angus: The family collie, sensitive to disturbances.
- Detective Characters: Including Jerry and Sheriff Sam, who become pivotal later in the story.
Plot Development
The Arrival of Steve Lewis
On a stormy Saturday night, Steve Lewis arrives at the Schofield house seeking shelter. His demeanor is friendly yet carries an undercurrent of tension that Audrey and Karen find unsettling.
Notable Quote:
- Steve Lewis: "Say, this is real nice and cozy. I love an open fire. Why are you looking at me like that?"
[04:58]
Audrey, cautious, notices the unease in Karen and begins to suspect something amiss about their guest.
Notable Quote:
- Audrey Schofield: "I was wondering why you were peering in the window before you knocked."
[05:07]
Unveiling Suspicion
As evening progresses, Audrey becomes increasingly suspicious of Steve Lewis, especially after observing his odd behavior around Angus and the suitcase he brought.
Notable Quote:
- Audrey Schofield: "I wonder what he's got in that suitcase. His clothes, silly. What else? That's what I'm wondering."
[07:51]
Her instincts prove correct when she discovers bloodstains in his suitcase, indicating his involvement in foul play.
Notable Quote:
- Steve Lewis: "That is blood. It's a man's blood. I killed him."
[13:39]
Confrontation and Threat
Steve Lewis reveals his sinister intentions, threatening Audrey and Karen to comply with his demands. The tension escalates as he attempts to seize control of their home and possessions.
Notable Quote:
- Steve Lewis: "Until I'm ready to leave, you'll do exactly as I say. Or I may just have to show you how well I can handle that tire iron."
[14:14]
The Sheriff's Intervention
Amidst the chaos, Sheriff Sam arrives, tipped off by the local diner sheriff who had interacted with Steve Lewis earlier. A thrilling car chase ensues, culminating in the capture of Steve Lewis, ensuring the safety of Audrey and Karen.
Notable Quote:
- Steve Lewis: "I hate to bother you at this hour of the night, but I saw your sign and hoped you weren't altered."
[15:27]
Climactic Exchange:
- Audrey Schofield: "You could kill us, Karen. What a thing to say."
[15:49] - Steve Lewis: "Yeah, isn't it? Especially when I have better use for you."
[15:52]
Resolution and Aftermath
With Steve Lewis apprehended, Audrey and Karen express relief. Audrey contemplates the vulnerabilities of opening their home to outsiders, vowing to remove the tourist sign to prevent future threats.
Notable Quote:
- Audrey Schofield: "The first thing I'm going to do after I get a good night's rest is take down that tourist accommodation sign."
[21:37]
Conclusion
"Terror In The Night" masterfully blends suspense and classic radio drama elements, showcasing the timeless struggle between innocence and malevolence. Through Audrey and Karen's resilience and the timely intervention of Sheriff Sam, the episode underscores themes of vigilance and the importance of community safety.
Final Thought:
- Rod Serling (Steve Lewis): "Close your eyes, exercise your imagination and join us again on our next presentation of the Zero Hour."
[21:47]
Production Credits:
- Adapted for Radio by: Glenn Hall Taylor
- Cast:
- Mel Torme as the Killer
- Luke Krugman
- Peggy Weber
- Sam Edwards
- Diane Hale
- Bill Keane
- Created by: J.M. Kolis
- Directed by: Don Hills
- Produced in Hollywood for the Mutual Broadcasting System by Radio Productions Incorporated
- Music Composed and Conducted by: Stanley D. Hoffman
- Associate Producer: Rochelle Sherman
"Terror In The Night" serves as a nostalgic yet thrilling episode that captivates listeners with its intricate plot and compelling characters, embodying the essence of the Golden Age of Radio.