Podcast Summary: "Midnight For Danger" – Relic Radio Thrillers (Old Time Radio)

Episode Information:

• Title: Midnight For Danger
• Series: Top Secret (NBC, 1950)
• Episode Number: 7
• Air Date: July 23, 1950
• Host: RelicRadio.com
• Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

Introduction

"Midnight For Danger" is the seventh installment of the "Top Secret" series, an NBC production from 1950 that delves into stories of international intrigue, espionage, and suspense set against the backdrop of World War II. Featuring the captivating Ilona Massey as Baroness Karen Gazer, the episode intricately weaves a tale of hidden secrets, covert operations, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

Plot Overview

The narrative centers around Baroness Karen Gazer, a former Viennese aristocrat haunted by the horrors of Nazi occupation and determined to thwart Operation Das—a clandestine German plan aimed at invading neutral Switzerland. Karen's quest leads her to a seemingly ordinary clock shop in Basel, Switzerland, where a deceptively cheap Swiss watch holds the key to preventing disaster.

Key Characters

• Baroness Karen Gazer (Ilona Massey): A resilient and resourceful former noblewoman committed to stopping Operation Das.
• Erich Jure: A watchmaker and covert ally assisting Karen in her mission.
• Paul Hamelin: A suspicious figure implicated in espionage activities with ambiguous loyalties.
• Frau Meltzner: Erich's cousin, who unwittingly becomes entangled in the espionage plot.
• Dr. St. George and Charlie: Swiss medical personnel who become involuntary participants in the unfolding drama.

Detailed Synopsis

Initiation of the Mission ([01:34] – [04:10]) Baroness Karen Gazer begins her assignment without fully understanding the gravity of the situation—a seemingly ordinary Swiss watch that not only marks time but also conceals "Operation Das." Her meeting with Erich Jure at the clock shop establishes the clandestine communication protocol: a white clock serves as the signal, where "5 o'clock" signifies safety and "12 o'clock" denotes imminent danger.

Establishing Connections ([02:31] – [04:08]) Karen interacts with Erich, laying the groundwork for their covert operations. They discuss Operation Das, revealing it as Germany's ruthless plan against Switzerland. Erich, beleaguered by age and health, expresses his weariness but remains steadfast in assisting Karen.

The Threat Intensifies ([05:24] – [10:35]) As Karen attempts to send the critical information to London, State Security Police intervene, detaining Erich and escalating the tension. Frau Meltzner introduces Paul Hamelin, raising suspicions about his true allegiance. The complex web of trust and deception becomes apparent as alliances shift and true motives remain obscured.

A Desperate Escape ([11:14] – [16:19]) Paul Hamelin's betrayal leads to a high-stakes confrontation. Karen narrowly escapes a deadly trap on the bridge over the Rhine, culminating in her hospitalization where Dr. St. George becomes an unexpected ally. The dynamic between Karen and Dr. St. George unfolds, revealing deeper layers of their past and shared burdens.

The Climax ([19:17] – [28:43]) The tension reaches its peak as Paul Hamelin confronts Karen, demanding the whereabouts of the microfilm containing Operation Das. A dramatic struggle ensues, culminating in the revelation that the microfilm was hidden within the wristwatch. Operation Das is disclosed as a comprehensive plan for a German invasion of Switzerland, threatening the nation's neutrality.

Resolution ([27:00] – [28:43]) Karen successfully transmits the critical information to Allied Intelligence in London, neutralizing the imminent threat of Operation Das. The episode concludes with reflections on the resilience of individuals in the face of overwhelming odds and the enduring hope for peace.

Notable Quotes

• Ilona Massey as Baroness Karen Gazer:

  • "[01:34] 'When I began Assignment 7, I did not know that a watch... could hold the secret not only of time, but of death.'
  • "[04:40] 'Please telephone 2007. A man named Paul Hamelin. If he answers, tell him where I am.'"
  • "[17:57] 'Operation Das was the complete and detailed plans for a German attack on Switzerland. Invasion, everything.'"

• Erich Jure:

  • "[03:13] 'When it is set at 5 o'clock, you may come in. 12 o'clock means danger. Break contact.'"
  • "[04:21] 'Spying is for men who are strong. After all, your country is at war with Germany.'"

• Paul Hamelin:

  • "[09:07] 'In an hour then.'"
  • "[19:35] 'From Elsner. You're a talk. Yes. A microfilm on operation Das is concealed in the wristwatch.'"

• Dr. St. George:

  • "[16:19] 'You are a prisoner on parole.'”
  • "[21:28] 'Oh, trust me, will you?'"

Themes and Insights

Espionage and Deception: The episode masterfully portrays the intricate dance of trust, deception, and betrayal inherent in espionage. Characters constantly navigate shifting alliances, highlighting the precarious nature of spycraft.

Resilience and Sacrifice: Baroness Gazer embodies resilience, risking her safety to prevent a catastrophic invasion. Her sacrifices underscore the personal costs of warfare and the unwavering commitment to a greater cause.

Neutrality Under Threat: Operation Das serves as a metaphor for the fragility of neutrality in times of global conflict. The narrative underscores the vulnerability of nations that strive to remain uninvolved yet find themselves entangled in the machinations of powerful adversaries.

Human Vulnerability: Characters like Erich Jure and Paul Hamelin reveal the human side of espionage—aging spies burdened by their secrets and individuals grappling with loyalty and survival.

Conclusion

"Midnight For Danger" is a compelling episode that encapsulates the essence of Old Time Radio thrillers. Through its well-crafted narrative, engaging characters, and suspenseful plot twists, it offers listeners a riveting glimpse into the shadowy world of espionage during a tumultuous period in history. The episode not only entertains but also invites reflection on themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring quest for peace amidst chaos.

Additional Notes:

• Production Credits:

  • Directed and Produced by: Harry W. Junkin
  • Script: Alan Sloan
  • Cast: Ilona Massey (Baroness Karen Gazer), Ronald Long (Dr. St. George), Ruth York (Frau Meltzner), among others.
  • Music: Composed and conducted by Dr. Roy Shield.

• Next Episode Teaser:

  • "Next week the story of Emission and the Poison Pin, a corsage that meant death, a baron who played polo and a Marcati 22, whose four wheels spun for fortune. It is a story that has been until now, top Secret." – Ilona Massey ([29:03])

For more enthralling episodes and classic old-time radio adventures, visit RelicRadio.com.