Relic Radio Thrillers: "A Little Matter of Memory" by Suspense

Release Date: November 22, 2024
Original Air Date: September 30, 1954
Hosts: Lawrence Dobkin (Edward Mansell), Paula Winslow (Joan Mansell)
Additional Cast: Edgar Barrier, Joseph Kearns, Richard Peel
Adapted by: James Poe
Produced and Directed by: Norman McDonald
Music Composed by: Lucian Morowic
Conducted by: Lud Gluskin

Introduction

Relic Radio Thrillers presents "A Little Matter of Memory," a gripping episode from the esteemed CBS series Suspense. Spanning over two decades, Suspense is renowned for its masterful storytelling in the realms of crime, mystery, espionage, and suspense. This particular episode centers on Edward and Joan Mansell, a young English couple caught in a web of deceit and danger on the remote moors near Buckworth.

Plot Overview

Setting the Scene (00:00 - 05:06)
Edward Mansell, recently recovering from a stroke, has relocated with his wife, Joan, to a secluded cottage on the moors for convalescence. Their peaceful retreat is shattered when they discover two ominous notes: one threateningly signed by Barrington Howard, a known homicidal psychotic, and another from George Beale, the local curate, offering protection due to Howard being at large.

Encounter with the Constable (06:02 - 09:12)
Deciding to seek help in the nearby village of Buckworth despite Edward's physical limitations, the Mansells meet a constable who provides background on Howard. The constable reveals Howard's manipulative nature and his unique method of being caught—through his compulsive total recall on specific topics, in this case, Germany. As they attempt to reach Buckworth, the Mansells are warned of Howard's potential presence in unchecked areas.

Return to the Cottage and Suspicion (09:13 - 12:22)
Upon returning to their cottage, the couple barricades themselves, heightening the tension. Suddenly, George Beale arrives, but inconsistencies in his behavior and strange comments raise Joan's suspicions. The atmosphere becomes increasingly eerie as the Mansells question the true identity of their protector.

The Twist Unfolds (12:37 - 22:30)
As the night progresses, Beale shares harrowing war stories, revealing a depth of knowledge that seems suspiciously aligned with the Mansells' situation. Edward's impaired judgment, aggravated by alcohol, leads him to incapacitate Beale, believing him to be the threat. However, moments later, Beale reappears alive, prompting confusion and fear. The true identity of Barrington Howard is unveiled as he masquerades convincingly as George Beale, demonstrating his manipulative prowess.

Climactic Conclusion (22:07 - 23:35)
In a tense confrontation, the Mansells realize Howard's true intentions. George Beale, or rather Barrington Howard, continues his deceptive narrative, leaving the couple and the audience in suspense about his ultimate motives and the couple's fate.

Key Characters

• Edward Mansell (Lawrence Dobkin): A convalescing patient recovering from a stroke, determined yet physically limited.
• Joan Mansell (Paula Winslow): Edward’s vigilant and caring wife, whose intuition becomes crucial in uncovering the deception.
• Barrington Howard/George Beale (Edgar Barrier): The antagonist posing as a curate, whose true identity threatens the Mansells’ safety.
• Constable (Joseph Kearns): The local police officer who provides background on Howard but ultimately becomes a pawn in Howard’s scheme.

Notable Quotes

• Edward Mansell (05:06):
  "A man in good health could walk it in an hour and a half. A man in good health, which I was not."
  — Highlights Edward's determination despite his physical limitations.

• Constable (07:53):
  "He might have got clean away if it wasn't for this psychological thing."
  — Refers to Howard's method of being caught through his compulsive recall.

• George Beale (12:37):
  "It's amazing. How on earth did you do it? Man's a giant."
  — Undermines Edward's attempt to subdue him, adding layers to Howard's deceit.

• Edward Mansell (19:15):
  "Good Lord. He had a gun and told us and we forgot. Look in his pocket."
  — Realization of the grave danger posed by Howard.

• George Beale (21:20):
  "This stuff about Germany. Did he really say this?"
  — Confronts Edward about the incongruities in his story, raising questions about his identity.

Themes and Insights

"A Little Matter of Memory" delves deep into themes of deception, vulnerability, and the fragility of safety in isolation. The Mansells' attempt to navigate trust in a remote setting underscores the human instinct to seek security amidst threat. Howard's character embodies the quintessential villain from Suspense—charming yet lethal, using psychological manipulation to instill fear and confusion.

The episode also explores the impact of physical and psychological trauma. Edward’s stroke and subsequent paralysis add layers to his character, making his quest for safety not just physical but also an emotional battle against his limitations and fears.

Conclusion

"A Little Matter of Memory" exemplifies the enduring legacy of Suspense in crafting narratives that keep listeners on the edge of their seats. Through masterful dialogue, intricate plotting, and memorable characters, this episode remains a standout example of old-time radio thrillers. Relic Radio Thrillers continues to honor such classics, bringing them to new audiences eager for timeless tales of mystery and suspense.

Discover More:
Dive into this episode and explore over 900 thrilling adventures at RelicRadio.com. For additional old-time radio shows and to support the series, visit donate.relicradio.com.