Relic Radio Thrillers: "Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble" by Suspense

Episode Release Date: July 11, 2025
Original Air Date: April 6, 1943
Host: RelicRadio.com
Author: John Dixon Carr

Introduction

"Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble," a classic episode from the renowned Suspense series, immerses listeners in a gripping tale of mystery, deceit, and murder set against the backdrop of an old London theater. This episode masterfully intertwines elements of espionage and psychological thriller, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats until the very last moment.

Setting the Stage: Drury Lane Theater

The story unfolds in the historic Drury Lane Theater, an iconic venue steeped in tradition and haunted by its storied past. Paul Lucas, portrayed by the distinguished actor Paul Lucas himself, serves as the central character navigating the unfolding drama.

Paul Lucas (02:39):
"Historic Drury Lane Theater, a relic of old London. On this site, in the cramped and crooked lanes of Aldwych, there has been a playhouse since Nell Gwynne sold oranges in the pit."

The theater's eerie ambience is vividly described, highlighting its red plush seats and the lingering presence of old ghosts, setting a foreboding tone for the night's performance.

Characters and Relationships

• Marcia Blair: A celebrated Shakespearean actress with a mysterious past, recently married to Howard White.
• Howard White: Marcia's devoted second husband, whose loyalty is called into question.
• Paul Lucas: The protagonist, deeply entangled in the unfolding mystery.
• Ludwig von Arnheim: A professional magician and escape artist with hidden motives.
• Louise Fenton: Marcia's companion secretary, caught in the center of the intrigue.
• Big Jim Bradley: The ex-wrestler chauffeur, loyal yet unaware of the impending danger.

Rising Suspicion and Unease

As the characters settle into the evening's performance of Shakespeare's Macbeth, tension brews backstage. Marcia Blair expresses her fears about her first husband, Barry Lake, whose death she suspects may not be as final as reported.

Marcia Blair (06:43):
"Howard, I know I shouldn't be talking like this on our first anniversary, but that's what worries me. What if Barry isn't dead? What if he isn't dead?"

Howard reassures her, but his demeanor raises further suspicion.

Howard White (07:01):
"Listen to me, darling. Your late husband, heaven condemn his soul. Died in New York more than a year ago. We have proof of that."

Marcia remains unconvinced, hinting at deeper secrets yet to be revealed.

The Night's Performance and Unexpected Tragedy

As the play commences, the atmosphere is thick with anticipation. However, the evening takes a dark turn when Marcia is found dead in her box.

Paul Lucas (18:46):
"She wasn't shot."

Marcia Blair (18:48):
"She wasn't shot?"

Investigations begin, uncovering that Marcia was poisoned through a concealed mechanism in opera glasses, a sinister plot devised to masquerade her murder as part of the theatrical performance.

Investigation and Unveiling the Culprit

Paul Lucas delves deeper into the mystery, piecing together evidence that points to Howard White, Marcia's second husband, as the orchestrator of the crime. The revelation is meticulously crafted, culminating in a confrontation that exposes Howard's true intentions.

Paul Lucas (27:57):
"They think you have hooks in your door but I can prove it hasn't gone down."

The discovery of the murder weapon—specially constructed opera glasses—ties Howard directly to the crime, revealing his obsession with Marcia and his motive rooted in financial gain.

Howard White (26:12):
"Marcia Blair was not shot."
Paul Lucas (26:20):
"I think you do, if you'll put your mind to it. Do you remember what Howard White said to her just before he left the box?"

Climactic Conclusion

In a dramatic finale, Howard White is apprehended as the police uncover the critical evidence linking him to the murder. The intricate plot unravels seamlessly, showcasing Paul Lucas's astute investigative skills.

Paul Lucas (27:33):
"Now, you and Bradley can supply the clue that will hang him."

With the truth unveiled, justice is served, and the theater that once stood as a beacon of art becomes the stage for a chilling tale of betrayal and retribution.

Notable Quotes

• Marcia Blair on Stage Fright:
  Marcia Blair (07:14):
  "Shall I quote you something from another play, Howard? Well, the Ides of March are come. Aye, Caesar, but not gone."

• Paul Lucas on the Murder:
  Paul Lucas (27:45):
  "They were specially constructed glasses... relese the spring of a sharp, thin blade which strikes through the eyes into the brain."

• Howard White's Admission:
  Paul Lucas (25:28):
  "Marcia was killed by her devoted second husband, Mr. Howard White."

Conclusion

"Fire Burn And Cauldron Bubble" stands as a quintessential example of old-time radio thrillers, expertly blending suspense with intricate storytelling. Relic Radio Thrillers brings this timeless episode to contemporary listeners, preserving the legacy of Suspense and its ability to captivate audiences with tales of intrigue and mystery.

For those new to Relic Radio Thrillers, this episode offers a perfect introduction to the genre, showcasing the power of radio drama to create vivid and unforgettable narratives.

Produced by:

• William Speer, Producer
• John Deetz, Director
• Bernard Herman, Composer
• Robert Salmon, Conductor
• John Dickson Carr, Author

Narrated by:
Paul Lucas and Marcia Blair

For more captivating old-time radio adventures, visit RelicRadio.com and explore their extensive collection of podcasts and streams.