Brain Drain by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Relic Radio Sci-Fi

Episode: Brain Drain by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater
Release Date: January 26, 2026
Podcast: Relic Radio Sci-Fi (Host: RelicRadio.com)

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Overview

This episode features the old-time radio sci-fi thriller "Brain Drain" from The CBS Radio Mystery Theater. Guided by the mysterious E.G. Marshall, listeners are plunged into a web of supernatural intrigue and scientific horror as government agents investigate the peculiar death—and subsequent disappearance—of a brilliant space scientist. The episode masterfully blends classic sci-fi with noir mystery, exploring themes of mind control, power, and the subversion of scientific genius.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

Introduction to Mystery (00:53–04:05)

• Host E.G. Marshall sets the tone, promising a trek through "a dark labyrinth of horror" and quipping:

  "You cannot lose your life. You can only lose your mind." (00:54 – E.G. Marshall)

• Setting: The story opens post-mortem—space scientist Carl von Linden is already dead under strange circumstances. Charles Carey, government agent, investigates alongside his assistant, Henry Boggs.

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Entering the Mystery (05:01–09:52)

• Carey and Boggs search von Linden's apartment, examining photos and mementos from a recent trip to Egypt.
• Strange Clues:
  • Picture of von Linden seemingly posing with someone invisible.
  • Mention of a woman, Tara, who had a hypnotic effect on von Linden.
  • Sudden shift in von Linden's demeanor after Egypt.

Carey: "There's one picture there... he's looking to his left, smiling as though he was being photographed with someone else. But there's no one else in the photo." (05:54)

• An autopsy request is denied; Inspector Warren insists the death was natural, advising Carey to take a vacation (09:06).

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The Allure of Tara (09:52–16:54)

• Dinner Scene: Carey attends a dinner at Inspector Warren's to meet Tara.
• Tara's Magnetic Presence: Carey eerily describes Tara's appearance before meeting her, based on von Linden's painting:

"Her eyes are... cat-like in quality. Emerald green... her beauty is timeless... pale Egyptian skin... raven black hair." (10:33 – Carey)

• Dr. Kadar Arrives: Tara's mysterious acquaintance wears an Egyptian pendant (the "cat's eye"), which seems hypnotic.
• Kadar demonstrates unexplainable powers (e.g., influences a stopped watch), causing suspicion:

"I do find that pendant unusual, almost hypnotic. Can't seem to take my eyes off it." (13:10 – Carey)

• Kadar warns:

  "Mr. Carey is a source of exceedingly hostile vibrations." (14:25 – Kadar)

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The Investigation Deepens (18:22–26:37)

• Carey’s suspicions rise. He tasks Boggs with researching Dr. Stefan Kadar, who proves untraceable.
• A global pattern of missing scientists emerges:
  • Von Linden (USA): Body vanished.
  • Ivan Salkovich (Russia): Drowned, body missing.
  • Pierre Chamois (France): Perishes in a lab fire, body never recovered.
• In each city, a mysterious psychic (“Dr. Kadar”) performed that week.

Carey: "Each newspaper... a mention of a theatrical performance being given... in the same city where each tragedy has occurred. And his name? Dr. Kadar." (27:45)

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The Open Grave and Supernatural Apparition (28:17–30:14)

• Carey and Boggs return to the graveyard, discovering the cat's eye pendant and witnessing a strange apparition by von Linden's grave.
• Carey is again entranced by the pendant and "controlled by a sort of supernatural presence":

"I can't budge. I feel controlled by a sort of supernatural presence." (29:43 – Carey)

• The grave is opened—the coffin is empty.

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Descent Into Mad Science (32:59–44:40)

• Carey and Boggs are drugged and awaken in Dr. Kadar's secret underground lab beneath the crypt.
• They are shown tanks containing the extracted, living brains of the three missing scientists—kept alive for their intellectual power:

Kadar: "Here are von Linden, Chamois, and Salkovich... each containing one magnificent specimen of a superior brain. A living brain, if you will, kept alive by me." (37:19)

• Kadar controls these brains to generate deadly energy surges and laser beams, displaying frightening power.

• Tara is revealed as an accomplice, luring victims for Kadar's experiments—her control motivated by a need for power.

• The next target is revealed: Inspector Warren, who is unknowingly carrying an explosive vial in his pocket.

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The Rebellion of the Brains & Climactic Escape (44:01–46:40)

• Carey incites the captive brains (via suggestion) to combine their mental strength and overpower Kadar:

"Join forces with your tortured colleagues. Combine your mental powers. Rid yourselves of this madman once and for all." (44:13 – Carey)

• The brains short-circuit Kadar's equipment, causing explosions; Carey and Boggs escape the laboratory in chaos.

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Final Confrontation & Resolution (46:47–47:30)

• Racing to Inspector Warren’s home, Carey intercepts Tara and discards the deadly vial, which explodes harmlessly outside.
• Tara is arrested; Warren is devastated but later visits her in prison.

"But you'll be happy to know he's forgiven her and sees her regularly every Sunday on Visitors Day at the State Correctional Institution." (46:28 – Narrator)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• E.G. Marshall: "You cannot lose your life. You can only lose your mind." (00:54)

• Carey (upon seeing Tara's portrait):
  "Look at this face, huh? Hard to believe someone as beautiful as this could give you nightmares." (07:04)

• Dr. Kadar’s boast:
  "Without brains, I have no need for bodies... I now have the power to build or destroy as I wish it, when I wish it, where I wish it." (39:46–40:15)

• Carey's plea to the imprisoned brains:
  "Combine your mental powers. Rid yourselves of this madman once and for all." (44:13)

• Narrator's closing witticism:
  "For the good guys... a word of caution: when it comes to a romantic liaison with a beautiful woman, look before you leap. It could be a matter of love or death." (47:30)

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Timestamps of Key Segments

• Intro & Setting of Tone: 00:53
• Mystery/Investigation Unfolds: 05:01
• Meeting Tara & Kadar: 09:52
• Strange Powers Demonstrated: 13:03
• Pattern of Murders Depicted: 26:37
• Discovery of Empty Grave: 25:39, 29:38
• Underground Lab Revelation: 32:59
• Brains' Mutiny & Lab Explosion: 44:13
• Final Showdown/Solution: 46:09
• Aftermath/Reflections: 46:28
• Closing Remarks/Jokes: 47:30

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Tone & Style

The episode blends eerie suspense, classic hardboiled detective dialogue, and flashes of pulpy science fiction. Characters speak in sharp, atmospheric lines, with moments of wry humor and dramatic confrontation. At its core, "Brain Drain" delivers chilling commentary on the misuse of scientific power and the dangers of unchecked ambition—wrapped in a cloak of supernatural intrigue.

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Conclusion

"Brain Drain" is a standout example of vintage radio sci-fi blending the macabre with intellectual suspense. The story’s fusion of mysterious femme fatale, mad scientist, and brain-in-a-jar horror keeps the tension high to the last minute, leaving listeners pondering the boundaries between life, death, and the mind.

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Transcript

[A]

Relic radio.

[B]

This is relic radio.

[A]

Sci fi Old time radio. Science fiction stories from relicradio.com.

[B]

Foreign. The CBS radio mystery theater presents. Come in.

[A]

Welcome.

[B]

I'm e. G. Marshall, your guide as we embark on a journey through a dark labyrinth of horror. But do not be afraid. I will be with you every terrifying minute. Together, we will probe a ghostly shroud of mystery that thus far has concealed a horrible murder. I assure you, you will be in no danger. All that you see and hear takes place in your imagination. You cannot lose your life. You can only lose your mind. This pendant, I've seen it before.

[A]

These ancient egyptian symbols. The cat's eye. It belongs to Dr. Kadar. Are you sure? Yeah, positive. He was wearing it when I met him at inspector warren's house. I remember looking into it, feeling strange, Somewhat hypnotized.

[B]

Well, stop staring at it, lieutenant. I can't.

[A]

I feel controlled by a sort of supernatural presence.

[B]

Look.

[A]

That strange form there beside the open grave.

[C]

I don't see anything.

[A]

It's moving toward the crypt. We've got to follow it. There's something there. The apparition wants us to see it with this.

[C]

Nothing out there, lieutenant. Come back.

[D]

Come back.

[B]

Our mystery drama brain drain was written especially for the radio mystery theater by ralph goodman and paul hecht. It is sponsored in part by true value hardware stores and Buick motor division. I'll be back shortly with act one.

[A]

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[B]

Most tales of terror begin just before a gruesome murder is about to take place. Our story begins after the fact. Space scientist Carl von Linden is already dead. His Murder, if it was murder, was neither unusual nor gruesome. But there were strange circumstances surrounding his sudden and unexplained demise. Investigating these circumstances is Charles Carey, a government agent assigned by his superiors at the Bureau to make a routine check of the situation. With him at the dead man's apartment is his assistant, Henry Boggs. What they are about to discover is anything but routine. Here we are, Lieutenant. I believe this was von Linden's apartment, number 17.

[A]

Yep. I've been here many times, Boggs, under more pleasant circumstances.

[B]

You and he were good friends. His death must have come as quite a shock to you.

[A]

I was such a young man, just turned 30. One of the most promising scientists the department has ever known. Open the door, Boggs. You have the keys.

[B]

Right, sir. The rooms are rather large. Comfortably furnished. Yep.

[A]

Von Linden and I spent many evenings here trying to outguess each other's moves on that chess set.

[B]

What'd he talk about?

[A]

Oh, everything. Anything except those top secret experiments he was conducting. He was always open, friendly, easy to talk to. That is, until last week when he returned from Cairo.

[C]

Cairo? Well, then these must be the souvenirs of the trip.

[B]

Excellent photos of the pyramid.

[A]

Yeah, yeah, he showed them to me. There's one picture there that still baffles me, though. Which one? This one here. Von Linden standing at the entrance of a large pyramid. You see, look, he's standing at one side, looking to his left, smiling as though he was being photographed with someone else. But. But there's no one else in the photo, huh?

[B]

Well, now that you mention it, that is rather strange.

[C]

Did you ever ask him about it?

[B]

No.

[A]

No, he didn't seem to want to talk about that trip. There was this girl, Tara, I believe her name was. A young woman with a strange hypnotic quality. He was glad to return home to escape her spell.

[B]

Well, you don't think this, this Tara could have had any connection with his death?

[A]

It's not likely. She was in Egypt when he died. She called him just before he had that fatal stroke. Now, unless there's some way you can kill a man through hypnotic suggestion, we'll have to rule Tara out as a suspect. Here, have a look at her.

[C]

Among these photos.

[A]

No, no, no. On this easel, there's a painting von Linden made from memory when those nightmares began.

[B]

Nightmares?

[A]

Yeah. Look at this face, huh? Hard to believe someone as beautiful as this could give you nightmares.

[B]

Oh, fascinating. Green eyes.

[A]

Even more start contrasted with raven black hair. Who was she? Bugs. Inspector Warren.

[B]

The.

[A]

The Pentagon call.

[B]

Yes, I'll take it now. Hello. Yes, General. I know Carvin Linden was an extremely gifted scientist. No, no, I'm completely satisfied that the death was the result of perfectly natural causes. Yes, come in. What you've heard, General, are just rumors, as I see. Well, the Bureau will make that decision. Goodbye. Meddling old fool.

[A]

Oh, I'm sorry, Lieutenant Carry. That's all right, Inspector. I'm sorry, but I'm here to give you as much trouble as the General. About what? The death of Carl von Linden.

[B]

Oh.

[A]

Look, Carrie, I know von Linden was a close friend of yours, but there's no mystery here.

[B]

I've been going over your file. You've done an amazing job for the.

[A]

Bureau and we're grateful, Inspector.

[B]

I've also noticed you hadn't had a day off since last November.

[A]

Are you suggesting I take a vacation?

[B]

There's nothing unusual here. Many men in their prime, overwork, buckle up under accumulated pressure. Keel over quite suddenly, as your friend von Linden did.

[A]

Inspector, I saw a young man in perfect physical health keel over, as you say. But it wasn't from overwork or accumulated pressure. Gary, I think I understand. Someone somewhere in this Bureau has decided that an investigation might produce results that could be damaging.

[B]

The decision to close this case was mine. Mine alone. Now, why don't you start that vacation I've suggested?

[A]

If you say so, sir. Good.

[B]

And why not start by coming to my home tonight? I'm giving a small dinner to introduce a young lady I've been seeing. Someone I'm rather serious about.

[A]

Well, if you don't mind. Oh, you have a date.

[B]

Fine. Bring her. I'm sure Tara would love to meet her.

[A]

Tara?

[B]

Well, you heard me mention her before.

[A]

No. I mean, yeah, I guess so. There'd be no other reason. The name would sound familiar to me.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Well, then you will be there?

[B]

Eight o'? Clock?

[A]

Yes. Yes, Inspector. Yeah, I'll be there. I get that.

[B]

Charles.

[A]

Ah, Carrie. Inspector.

[B]

Come in. I'm so glad you could come. Thank you. My guests are out on the patio. Here, let me take your cover. Ah, thanks. I imagine you're anxious to meet Tara, the young woman I told you about.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah, very. She's quite a bit younger than I am. I. I don't know her age, really. Her beauty seems timeless and I find her fascinating.

[A]

Well, you've been a bachelor all your life. I'm sure she must be fascinating.

[B]

You'll find her exactly as I described her to you.

[A]

Oh, you never did.

[B]

I beg your pardon?

[A]

Describe her. But if I may, let me. Let me describe her to you.

[B]

Well, how can you? You've never met her.

[A]

I'd still like to try you. You say she's fascinated? Yes. Therefore, her eyes are probably cat like in quality. I'd say they were green. Emerald green.

[B]

Well, go on.

[A]

And since her beauty, as you put it, is timeless. She has the translucent Egyptian skin tone. Pale by comparison to most women.

[B]

Milk white.

[A]

Her hair black. Raven black.

[D]

Bravo. An amazing deduction. I've been standing here in the shadows and yet this handsome young man has given an intimate description of me.

[B]

Tara will do. Come in. Tara, I'd like you to meet our new Bureau expert on extrasensory perception, James Care.

[D]

Fascinated, Mr. Carey?

[A]

No more than I miss just Tara.

[D]

Call me Tara. Everyone does.

[B]

Everyone.

[D]

Oh, now, don't be jealous, darling. Carrie. Carrie. Isn't he the young agent you were telling me about? The friend of that gifted scientist who had that unfortunate heart attack? Oh, my sympathies, Mr. Carey.

[A]

It was a great personal loss, I understand.

[D]

And yet the dead are gone. What purpose would it serve to exhume the body and perform an autopsy?

[A]

You told her of my request for an autopsy, sir?

[B]

Well, we were discussing the incident briefly.

[D]

We have no secrets. Well, if we're going to have silly bureau talk, I'll return to our guests. I was amused, Mr. Carey, when I entered the room. But if you insist on being intense.

[B]

No, no, no, no, Tara, control that temper of yours. Don't leave. I was just trying to explain.

[C]

Yes, yes, Stay, Tara. As a favor to me.

[D]

Dr. Kadar. Forgive the outburst. I did not know you had arrived.

[C]

I am sure you did not mean.

[D]

To be impolite, Mr. Carey. Inspector Warren. This is an old and dear friend of mine, Dr. Stefan Kadar.

[B]

Welcome to my home, Doctor. I don't believe Tara has mentioned you before.

[C]

I have been away on a journey.

[A]

To the Middle East, Doctor.

[C]

Why do you say that?

[A]

Oh, the souvenir you wear around your neck. The silver pendant engraved with hieroglyphics. That sapphire set in the center is an ancient Egyptian cat's eye, is it not?

[C]

You are quite observant, Mr. Carey.

[B]

Mr. Carey here is one of my staff of government investigators.

[C]

Investigating what, if I may ask?

[A]

Oh, nothing at the moment, doctor. I'm here as a guest, as you are. But I do find that pendant unusual, almost hypnotic. Can't seem to take my eyes off it.

[B]

Really? He's right. It is fascinating.

[C]

It is getting rather late. I merely stopped by to extend my best wishes. By the way, Mr. Carey, what time do you have?

[B]

Time?

[A]

Oh, that's for 4:15.

[C]

4:15 in the evening, sir.

[A]

Oh, I'm afraid my watch has stopped.

[C]

Has it? I suggest you check his watch, Inspector. Mr. Carey seems confused.

[B]

Yes, of course it has stopped. Wait a minute.

[A]

Good Lord.

[B]

It's starting again. Their hands are a spinning 5, 6, 7, 7. 30. It's now exactly at the right time to the second.

[D]

Oh, darling, don't look so amazed. I should have warned you, Doctor. Kadar is an unusual man with unusual powers.

[A]

Yes, I'll bet.

[C]

Mr. Carey is a source of exceedingly hostile vibrations. It is obvious he has little knowledge of the power of the mind.

[A]

You're wrong, Doctor.

[B]

Just before you arrived, he performed an amazing feat of mental telepathy. He had never met Tara before, and yet without a single clue from me, he was able to describe her exactly.

[A]

Nearly as impressive as your magnetic power.

[C]

Magnetic? How do you determine my power is magnetic?

[A]

To increase the forward speed of a watch, one would have to move metallic wheels and gears at an accelerated speed. To accomplish this, one would need electric or magnetic power.

[C]

Clever, Mr. Carey, but entirely too logical. How would you say this is done?

[B]

I have no idea. Have you, Carrie?

[A]

No. I know.

[C]

Forgive my little prank. Atara, my child, you have my blessing.

[D]

Thank you, Kadar. I knew you would approve.

[C]

And now I must bid you good night.

[A]

Allow me to see you to the door, Doctor.

[B]

Carrie, escort Tara to the patio. I'll join you both there later.

[A]

Yes, sir. Well, they're gone. And now. Now, Mr. Carey, aren't you going to suggest a walk in the garden?

[D]

You amaze me, Mr. Carey. You are not only a master of extra sensory perception, but a mind reader as well. If we leave by that door, we won't be seen coming?

[A]

I'm not sure.

[D]

Afraid of what?

[A]

I can see, hear and touch? No.

[D]

Take my hand. It is real, is it not? Alive.

[A]

Warm. Who are you?

[B]

Tara.

[A]

Did my friend Carl von Linden ever truly know?

[D]

I know of no Carl von Linden.

[A]

There is a painting in his apartment. A portrait of a face he has seen many times in a dream.

[D]

Surely not me.

[A]

Perhaps not. But one thing I do know for sure. The death of von Linden was an unnatural occurrence. I promise you, his murder will not go unpunished. And those who have done the devil's bidding will spend an eternity in hell.

[B]

We have a determined investigator in. Lieutenant Charles Carey. Tara seems innocent enough. And yet her resemblance to the portrait in von Linden's apartment is too remarkable to be coincidence. Inspector Warren's fascination for the young woman could prove to be a stumbling block. Unless Carrie can come up with cold, hard evidence. Linking his suspicions to fact. I'll be back shortly with Act 2.

[C]

To the man who fought the Skyhawk. To the girl in the centuries.

[B]

We're glad you like your Buicks. Glad you set your spirit free.

[C]

And to the family from Ohio, to the folks up in St. Paul's nice to see you join us.

[A]

Nice to see you all.

[D]

There I was with my new Buick Skylark. And there he was, just coming out of the store with a new coffee table. I like your coffee table. I said I was gonna buy one just like it. Thank you, he said, I like your Buick Skylark, too. I was gonna buy one just like it. Thank you. I answered, then suggested. Listen, you like my coffee table and I like your Skylark. Why don't we get married? What can I say? I guess it was love at first. Buick.

[C]

It's nice to see you join us.

[B]

We're glad it came to be.

[C]

Nice to see you join us.

[A]

Buick.

[B]

Dedicated to the free spirit in just about everyone. Three days have passed since the untimely death of gifted space scientist Carl Von Linden. The night Lieutenant Carey met the beautiful, fascinating Tara, he returned home troubled, unable to sleep. That unforgettable fellow face, the same face that haunted his friend Von Linden, now haunts the dark recesses of his mind. Try as he might, he cannot shake off the persistent ghostly image. Early the next morning, he and his assistant, Boggs continue their investigation. And I'll bet it was quite a shock to find that Tara is now Inspector Warren's playmate. How did you get here so quickly? From Egypt?

[C]

Didn't you say Von Linden spoke to.

[B]

Her by telephone that night before he collapsed?

[A]

It could have been a fake call made by someone else or pre taped by Tara. The possibilities are numerous.

[B]

Oh, do they include flying across the ocean at supersonic speeds? Or shall we say on a witch's brew?

[A]

Not likely. All right, let's start with a file. See what you can dig up on a man named Kadar. Stefan Kad.

[B]

Who's he?

[A]

A man I met at the party. Calls himself Dr. Kadar. Tall, wiry, high cheekbones, white hair.

[B]

An older man.

[A]

How old would you say he looked? Ancient. And yet he moved like a young athlete in his early 20s.

[B]

You think he's mixed up in Von Linden's death?

[A]

I have a feeling there's a connection.

[B]

TARA and this Dr. Kadar?

[A]

Yeah. Yeah, they seemed strangely close. I got the impression she's afraid of him. I'm going to stop off at Inspector Warren's office, make one last attempt to get his okay for that Autopsy? That would help. I'll see what you can find on Kadara. I'll meet you at the inspector's office in one hour.

[B]

Gotcha. Oh, and Carrie?

[A]

Yeah?

[B]

From what you've told me, someone out there doesn't want any further digging into this affair. So be careful.

[A]

Inspector Warren speaking.

[B]

Oh, it's you, darling. No, you're not interrupting anything, Lieutenant. Carrie? No. As far as I know, he's on vacation.

[A]

Those are my orders.

[B]

The Von Linden case has been officially closed. Why are you so concerned, darling? A conflict between me and Carrie? No, he and I are still good friends. It's just that he has a personal interest in this one and he can be stubborn. Darling, don't worry. I won't upset myself and I won't overwork. Darling, someone's at the door. Yes. Yes. See you tomorrow night. Goodbye. What are you doing here? Looking for Lieutenant Carrie, sir. Isn't he here? Here? No, he's on vacation. Oh, yes, that where he's still disturbed about the Von Linden matter. Said he'd stop by to see you again about that autopsy. He was headed over here an hour ago.

[A]

Well, that's strange.

[B]

You're sure he was coming here? Bugs? Positive. He's anxious to exhume on Linden's body, have it checked out at the lab. I told him that was out of the question. Well, you know how he is. Yes, I know. That's why I'm concerned about his not arriving here. When did you say he left? Over an hour ago. Well, he may have changed his mind. I made myself very clear. There's to be no further investigation, no exhuming of bodies, no autopsies. The case is closed. Yes, I know, but I'm busy, Boggs, if you don't mind. Yeah, but I have a feeling something has happened to the lieutenant. Nonsense. He's always punctual. And he distinctly said I was to meet him here in an hour. For what purpose I don't know. But he was definite about his instructions. And I tell you he hasn't been here.

[A]

Now, I don't want any more about.

[B]

Lt. Carey or about the death of Von Linden. The investigation is over and the case is closed.

[A]

The inspector is right. Fox Carey.

[C]

Where have you been, Lieutenant?

[A]

Walking. Reconsidering a case. No need. No need for further investigation. I have been mistaken.

[B]

I'm glad to see you finally come to your senses, Carrie.

[C]

Come to his senses, sir?

[B]

Look at him. He's lost all sense of time or reality. Look at his eyes. Empty, glazed.

[C]

Lieutenant Carey has been drugged.

[B]

How do you feel now, Lieutenant?

[A]

I am better. Still a little shaky.

[B]

The inspector's with the doctor. You had a rough time for a while.

[A]

Yeah, My head sure feels like it.

[B]

Can you remember anything? Anything that might give us a lead on how you came to be in this condition?

[A]

Well, I do remember leaving the office, heading for the elevator. On the way, some. Somebody, Somebody I haven't seen before, said there was a call for me in Major Carlson's office. He's been transferred. You remember? To Rhodesia. So I picked up the phone, and a voice. It was a voice that was so familiar, said yes.

[B]

Don't press so hard, Carrie.

[A]

It'll come to you in an hour. Completely dropped out of my life.

[B]

Not to mention the six hours following. What did the doctor say, Inspector?

[A]

He'll be all right.

[B]

There's no official conclusion on what actually happened to him. The lab reports all look normal. Normal. All because we're checking out a death that the Bureau refuses to classify as a murder case. Perhaps I have been a bit stubborn about this. At first, things did look normal. But now I just don't know.

[A]

You can find out how. Okay. That autopsy. You talked me into this, Carrie.

[B]

There'd better be some evidence coming out of this ghoulish matter of digging up a fresh coat.

[A]

And they've raised the coffin, Inspector.

[B]

Yep.

[A]

All right, man. Step to one side, huh?

[B]

The coffin's intact. What now? This is your show, Carrie. Do you want it moved to the morgue for the autopsy?

[A]

Yeah, in a minute.

[B]

Why the delay?

[A]

I thought you were eager for the report.

[B]

I am.

[A]

But with your permission, I'd like them to open the coffin first.

[B]

Open it here? That's right, Carrie. You've been seeing too many horror movies. Exactly. What's to be gained by. All right, all right, gentlemen, if you please. Open the cotton. Good Lord.

[C]

It's empty.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

But who? How.

[A]

Save the questions, Boggs. I think it's time we track down some answers. Our case is once again officially open.

[B]

After two days of digging into the files, we don't seem to be any further along than we were before.

[A]

Nothing on Kadar?

[B]

Not a thing. The man just doesn't exist.

[A]

Well, perhaps he doesn't. What strange creatures, Kadar and Tara. One seems able to travel at the speed of light, being two places at once here in Egypt. And the other, Dr. Kadar, untraceable, vanishes into thin air after making a mysterious appearance at the inspector's house.

[B]

Have you spoken to the inspector about this?

[A]

He's so taken with a beautiful tower. I'm sure he won't listen to reason, even if we had some facts to reason with.

[B]

Well, what exactly do we have?

[A]

Well, Carl von Linden met with foul play, or else his body would not have been removed from that coffin.

[B]

Jack.

[A]

And a theory. Only a theory, mind you. But the murder of von Linden is part of a pattern. A brain drain that began six months ago, according to some checking I've been doing on my own.

[B]

Brain drains?

[A]

Yeah. A series of unexplained deaths of talented scientists. Deaths that have taken place in various parts of the world.

[B]

I don't follow. Hair.

[A]

These clippings from the files of the international press. Possibilities I had expected have turned out to be facts.

[B]

Which are?

[A]

Fact number one. Von Linden, American space scientist, dies suddenly. Cause unknown, and his body vanishes mysteriously.

[C]

Well, that's true.

[A]

Number two, Reported in this newspaper from Leningrad. Ivan Salkovich, Russian scientist, drowned in the Baltic Sea. Body never recovered. Fact number three, Pierre Chamois, working on top secret biochemical experiments in Paris. Trapped in a laboratory fire of unknown origin. Body never found or never acknowledged to have been found by the French government.

[B]

Well, that's fascinating, but I fail to see the link.

[A]

Each newspaper, there is a mention of a theatrical performance being given that week by a psychic, a mentalist, if you will, in the same city where each tragedy has occurred. And his name?

[B]

Dr. Kadar. Kadar. What's the next step, sir?

[A]

We're going to follow the trail that's warmest.

[B]

Boggs.

[A]

We're going back to that grave site.

[B]

There's the entrance to the graveyard, sir. Yeah, right up ahead.

[A]

You got your flashlight? Yeah. Storm is brewing.

[B]

It's getting dark. Have it right here, sir. I'll move on ahead. Just follow me. Right.

[A]

Can you see all right? Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Fine, fine.

[B]

I wish I could say the same. Graveyards are not exactly to my taste.

[A]

Keep your eyes peeled for that grave site. Yeah, I believe he's up ahead just to your left, huh?

[B]

Just.

[A]

Just beyond that large crypt. Yeah, yeah. The grave site should be directly ahead.

[B]

Now.

[A]

Here it is.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah, there it is. There's the open grave. Nothing seems to be changed. What's that?

[B]

The door, sir, to that large crypt. Oh, yeah. It's loose on its hinges, swinging in the wind.

[A]

Boy, it startled me for a moment. Hey, hold the light on the ground here, huh?

[B]

What's this? Huh?

[A]

Why, a silver pendant. It was half buried here in. In the soft earth.

[B]

Hey, I seen that before. Those ancient Egyptian symbols.

[A]

The cat's eye. It belongs to Dr. Kadar.

[C]

Are you sure?

[B]

Positive.

[A]

He was wearing it when I met him. I remember. I remember looking into it, feeling strange, somewhat hypnotized.

[B]

Yeah, it does seem to have that quote quality. Turn away, Lieutenant.

[A]

I can't budge. I feel controlled by a sort of supernatural presence.

[B]

Look. Look.

[A]

That strange ectoplasmic form there alongside the open grave.

[C]

I don't see anything, sir.

[A]

It's moving. It's moving towards the crypt. We got to follow it, Boggs. There's something there. Something the apparition wants us to see.

[C]

There's nothing there. Come back, Lieutenant. Come back.

[B]

Yes, the mind is a fragile thing. And when it is under pressure, it has been known to conjure up strange, frightening illusions. Did Lt. Carey actually see something hovering over the open grave? What strange force has taken control of his will? What lies waiting in that ominous crypt? We'll find out more about this deadly situation when I return shortly. With Act 3.

[C]

You can do it economically. No matter what the weather's like outside. You can change it so easily. So make summer a cool, insane Turn winter into spring. It's the right time for carrier. Carrier's right for the times.

[B]

To be right for the times. The air conditioning you choose for your home has got to run efficiently. And that's the beauty of Carrier's Round One. Compared to most other central units, the Round One is a good deal quieter.

[A]

And a lot more economical to operate. You look.

[B]

Local carrier dealer has a special preseason offer on the Round One. Call him on it.

[C]

So make summer a curling day. Turn winter into spring. It's the right time for carriers. Right for the times.

[A]

If you have active children, you know how important it is to childproof your home. So True Value hardware stores offer True Test Easy Care Latex Flat Enamel paint to help childproof walls and woodwork in any room in your home. This is the way True Value hardware stores explain how Easy Care works. Stains can't readily penetrate its enamel hard surface. They wash off without damaging the finish or leaving a shiny mark. Yet exceptionally durable as it is, Easy Care Latex Flat Enamel has a rich, flat finish. That means you can use Easy Care on walls and woodwork in the living room, bedroom, in kitchen or bathroom, but especially where active children play. And now you can get Easy Care Latex Flat enamel in white for just 947A gallon. Colors are slightly higher. Truvalue hardware stores make Easy Care Latex Flat enamel in their own trutest paint factories. Trutest Easy Care Latex Flat enamel. The childproof paint 947A gallon exclusively at participating True Value Hardware stores. This is WBBM Chicago.

[B]

Lieutenant Carey's murder investigation has succeeded only too well. It now looks like it may also succeed in adding the names of both Carrie and Boggs to the list of unfortunate souls who have suddenly vanished. The sound you hear is a bubbling brown liquid from which emanates a shower of multicolored sparks. Giant electric coils slither up toward a mirrored ceiling which is about to reflect an unspeakable evil. We are in a secret underground laboratory located directly. I am merely your guide. You must complete the journey yourself.

[C]

Mr. Carey. Mr. Carey, you can't wake up now.

[B]

What?

[C]

Mr. Carey.

[A]

Dr. Kadar.

[C]

Precisely. I'm flattered you remember me. You are most kind, particularly for returning my pendant. For that favor, I have spared your life and the life of your equally annoying and meddling friend, Mr.

[B]

Box. Box.

[A]

Where is Buck? Where is he?

[C]

Lying right beside you, Mr. Carey. Asleep, as you were but a few moments ago. I assure you he's all right.

[A]

Wake him. Come on. Bring him around as you did me.

[C]

Certainly. As a show of good faith, here. Here is my silver pendant. If you will merely press the eye to his forehead.

[A]

He looks so pale.

[B]

Boggs.

[A]

Boggs. Are you all right?

[B]

Uh, yes, Lieutenant, I. I think so.

[A]

Where are we? In an underground lab of some sort.

[C]

Quite correct. Still in the graveyard, gentlemen. Directly under the crypt. You both descended the hidden stairs inside the tomb at my bidding. I think it is time I let you in on my little secret and put an end to your curiosity.

[A]

Who are you? Why have you brought us here?

[B]

Please, Lieutenant, don't. Don't ask any more questions.

[A]

Do you smell the air?

[B]

Acrid fumes.

[A]

That's an acid of some sort bubbling in those tanks.

[B]

Aha.

[C]

You are right, Mr. Carey. But they are not for you. Those tanks to encompass a full grown man. If you will look more closely, you will see they are merely the size of your head. Besides, they are already filled.

[A]

Filled with what?

[C]

That, gentleman, is my secret. If you will both follow me to this electronic panel, I use it as a control board.

[A]

Control to control what?

[C]

This way, please. As a friend of Dr. Carl von Linden, you will be interested in what I have to show you.

[A]

Von Linden? Yes.

[C]

And Pierre Chamois and Professor Salkowicz as well.

[A]

Are you implying that these three acid tanks have something to do with the three men who have been murdered?

[C]

Murder? That strong word, Mr. Carey. I have murdered no one. The men I have made reference to are still alive.

[A]

Alive? On Linden, Chamois and Salkovich. Alive?

[C]

In a medical sense, yes. When a Man drowns or is horribly burned in a mysterious holocaust or nearly collapses from sudden increase in heart rate. He is not necessarily. His body may be rigid, completely immobile as these three you see here in this hermetically sealed glass case.

[A]

Von Linden. And the other two must be Chamois and Salkovich.

[C]

But as long as the brain continues to function medically, a man is still alive.

[A]

These three gruesome corpses alive.

[C]

Come, gentlemen, you are looking in the wrong direction. Here are von Linden, Chamois and Salkovich. Here in these bubbling tanks, each containing one magnificent specimen of a superior brain. A living brain, if you will, kept alive by me.

[A]

You go careful, Boggs. He's got his hand on that control panel. An electric charge. He's not.

[C]

No, no, no, no, no, no.

[D]

Just stand.

[C]

He will be all right. But that was rather foolish.

[A]

Where did that bolt of power come from?

[C]

That? Oh, that was through the courtesy of Mr. Chamois. I merely pressed this button to activate his brain and direct the power serve. Mr. Chamois did the rest.

[A]

Unbelievable.

[C]

Yes, considering only one brain was activated. Imagine, if you will, the deadly destruction that would ensue if all three were activated at once.

[B]

What hit me?

[A]

Brainwave bogs from one of those tanks. The one containing the brain of Mr. Chamois.

[C]

I suggest you do not try anything foolish. I do not wish to harm you, gentlemen. As I told you, I am not a murderer, merely a man of science devoted to organic and biochemical experiments.

[A]

Yeah, you mean like the one you conducted in France. Explosive gas. One that causes laboratories to go up in flames.

[C]

One of my minor efforts, actually. It's a refinement of the ancient Egyptian fire. The container need not be cumbersome. A small lead encased perfume vial set to go off at the precise moment.

[A]

Yeah, we already know the way it worked on Professor Chamois.

[C]

The poor fool. He was too in love with my beautiful Tara. Her perfume spray left in his coat pocket. Tara has been most helpful. She has brought me three magnificent specimens.

[A]

Brains.

[C]

Without brains, I have no need for bodies, Mr. Carey. I have accomplished my objective. Superior brain power. A living, thinking power. Celebrating at my command. It is I who control them. And with them I now have the power to build or destroy as I wish it, when I wish it, where I wish it.

[A]

I will admit that little experiment you just demonstrated, it was impressive for a minor achievement.

[C]

Minor achievement?

[A]

Oh, come now. I've seen more exciting electrical displays at our own local museum of science and industry. Haven't you, Boggs?

[B]

Ah, yeah, sure. Oh, much more exciting, sir.

[C]

You're testing me, are you, Mr. Carey? Trying to discover just what sort of power I have under my control. If it is excitement you want, gentlemen, I will be most happy to oblige. With a little help from my friends. Professor Salkovich. A shower of white hot sparks, if you please, blocking the door in case our visitors decide to make hasty exit in the middle of the show.

[B]

Good luck at that.

[A]

Get back. Keep back.

[C]

Bugs you. Now you, Dr. Von Linden. A needle sharp laser beam blue liquid fire separating our two guests. Hold them prisoner. Each to his own side of the room.

[A]

Ah, watch it, boss. Gee, that was too close for Trump.

[C]

And now once again I call on you, my good chamois. Repeat your fast performance. Strike Mr. Boggs with a king magnetic bolt of current. This time increasing the power to killing equator.

[A]

No, no, wait.

[C]

Stop.

[B]

Stop.

[A]

You've proven your point, Dr. Kadar. We've seen enough.

[C]

I hear you, Mr. Carey. And so it seems of Salkovich, Chamois and Von Linen. The electrical display, as you put it, is over.

[A]

I must admit that was. That was really something.

[C]

Thank you. It has not been easy to develop this violence. These men are peaceful by nature. At times they resist and are not easy to control.

[A]

You mean you shock them? That's how you control them.

[C]

With embedded heated electrodes. They have no love for me, my three professors. But they obey. And soon I will have more. More corpses, more brains.

[A]

And that's where Tara comes in.

[D]

Yes.

[C]

Most beautiful child. But like most beautiful women, she has an insatiable need for power.

[A]

Which you provide. But why has she bestowed her gifts on Inspector Warren, huh?

[C]

Inspector Warren was not chosen for his brain, but for his social power, contacts in your space program. He has had his uses.

[B]

Had?

[C]

At this very moment, Tara is placing a small vial in his coat pocket. The incendiary charge is set to go off at midnight when she's safely out of range of the deadly Egyptian vire.

[A]

And the newspapers will report another unfortunate accident.

[C]

Exactly. It is just past 11:30. Ah, you are not thinking of anything heroic right now, are you, Mr. Gary?

[B]

No, no.

[A]

I was thinking about your three captive professors. How they must hate you.

[C]

Hate me?

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Well, they must know what you have done to them. How you torture them and for what purpose. What if they were to make a concerted effort to fight back? How much damage do you think they could do?

[C]

Fearful to contempl.

[A]

What if they try, Doctor, and succeed in wresting control from you?

[C]

It's impossible. I am in full control.

[A]

Well, then there is no harm in my urging them on Is there, child? You hear me? Join forces with your tortured colleague. Combine your mental powers. Rid yourselves of this madman once and for all.

[C]

Confusing me?

[A]

No, I don't think so, Doctor. I think they know exactly what they are doing.

[C]

Be the laser. Be not your father. That we shall be. To our. That dit car. One surge of power.

[A]

Destroy it all and you're free.

[C]

The vi. They're all exploding. Run for it, Bog.

[A]

Run for it or we'll never get out of here alive.

[B]

I can't believe it, Lieutenant. That chamber of horrors. It was like a nightmare.

[A]

Keep your eyes on the road, Bugs.

[B]

It's getting close to midnight. Yeah.

[A]

There's the house up ahead. Quick, pull into the driveway.

[B]

Yes, sir. There's Tara just coming out on the porch. We made it. Inspector Warren is with us.

[A]

Okay, turn your lights off. We're moving slowly.

[B]

Right, sir. Isn't likely that hidden vial will go off while she's still with it.

[A]

Well, I wouldn't bet on it. A madman like the late Dr. Kadar was capable of anything. Okay, stay in the shadows.

[D]

You've really been a delightful guest, darling. But really, you mustn't stay any longer.

[B]

I can never bear to leave you.

[D]

But it's almost midnight. I'd love for you to stay.

[A]

But would you?

[B]

Tara, Carrie and Boggs. What are you two doing here?

[A]

I'll explain in a minute, Inspector. Give me your coat.

[B]

My coat?

[A]

Yeah. That won't be necessary. I found what I want here in your pocket. Tara's perfume vial.

[D]

You're mistaken, Mr. Carey. That vial is not mine.

[B]

But it is, darling. I recognize the same place. Step back. What are you doing?

[A]

I'm going to throw this vial as far as I can across the highway into that open field.

[B]

What was in that?

[C]

The heat, suffocating. What chemical could cause that explosion?

[A]

We'll never know, sir. We'll never know.

[B]

They say Inspector Warren was quite devastated at the thought that his sweet, innocent Tara was fooling around with behind his back. But you'll be happy to know he's forgiven her and sees her regularly every Sunday on Visitors Day at the State Correctional Institution. I'll be back shortly.

[A]

Everyone's heading for the Singer spring sale, the biggest savings event of the year. Right now, save 100 off regular price of the fabulous Futura 2 sewing machine in exclusive swing away cabinet specially designed for the flip and sew two way surface. And pay only 88 now for a sturdy Singer zigzag machine that does so many sewing jobs so easily. Only $88. Carrying case or cabinet Extra. See these fine machines and others at the Singer spring sale that ends April 3rd. Don't miss it.

[B]

Most crime stories have a message. Ours do not. They are offered as pure entertainment. But for those who insist on a message, we offer you a choice of two. For the good guys, we have a word of caution. When it comes to a romantic liaison with a beautiful woman. Look before you leap. It could be a matter of love or death. And to the bad guys, a word of advice from Oscar Wilde, who warns, murder is always a mistake. One should never do anything one cannot discuss after dinner. Our cast included Paul Hecht, Robert Dryden, Stats Cotsworth and Carol Titel. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. And now, a preview of our next tale.

[D]

No, no. As far as Will's concerned, I can't know anything about all this.

[B]

Lester, what do you gain by pretending.

[A]

You'Re just as dumb as he is?

[D]

In the first place, he's not dumb. In the second place, it's a good way to build a happy marriage.

[A]

Well, I don't know what I can do, Martha.

[D]

Well, you tell Joe B. This for me. Tell him the very next time he sneaks into the house to switch those turtles, I might just be waiting there with a 12 gauge.

[A]

Now, Martha, there's no need to do it.

[D]

I might just be a scared and nervous lady alone in the house, frightened by what I think is a prowler. I could be so frightened out of my wits, I might just shoot first.

[A]

No, Martha, you're only looking for trouble.

[D]

Now, just think if. If I kill him by mistake, the joke finally would be on him, wouldn't it?

[B]

Radio Mystery Theater was sponsored in part by Carrier Air Conditioning. This is E. G. Marshall, inviting you to return to our Mystery Theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time. Pleasant dreams.

[D]

Sam.