Relic Radio Thrillers: "One Must Die" by Spy Catcher – Detailed Summary
Release Date: February 14, 2025
Introduction
"One Must Die" is a gripping episode from Relic Radio Thrillers, a series dedicated to delivering classic Old Time Radio adventures filled with crime, mystery, espionage, and suspense. Hosted by RelicRadio.com, this episode delves into the perilous world of wartime espionage, focusing on the unyielding pursuit of enemy spies during World War II. The narrative is based on the memoirs of Lieutenant Colonel Oreste Pinto of the Allied Counter Intelligence Service, offering a riveting portrayal of the challenges faced in identifying and capturing spies amidst the chaos of occupied Europe.
The Escape Attempt
The story begins in the spring of 1942, with three men attempting a daring escape from the Dutch coast to England. The escape is fraught with danger from the outset, utilizing a small, unseaworthy motorboat with a faulty engine—a risky choice for crossing the treacherous North Sea.
Notable Quote:
"It's getting light already. The patrols will be looking out for us. We left at 9 o'clock last night. Now 10 past 6."
— Jan Lerten [12:45]
The trio consists of Johannes Dronkus, an elderly and timid man; Jan Lerten, a young and resolute individual; and Hans Delden, a student of Dutch-Malayan heritage. Their journey is marked by tension and uncertainty, as they navigate the precarious conditions of their escape vessel.
Arrival and Initial Interrogation
Upon reaching England, the men are promptly subjected to stringent screening by British counterintelligence. Their arrival is met with a mix of relief and suspicion, as the authorities must determine the true intentions of each individual.
Notable Quote:
"To escape from the Germans, sir, and to join the Free Dutch Army."
— Jan Lerten [23:10]
Jan Lerten confidently states his motive to join the Free Dutch Army, portraying himself as a trained and dedicated soldier. In contrast, Johannes Dronkus presents himself as a reluctant participant, expressing a desire to remain with his family rather than engage in further conflict.
Interrogation of Johannes Dronkus
Lieutenant Colonel Pinto takes a keen interest in Johannes Dronkus, suspecting potential espionage activities. Through meticulous questioning, Pinto uncovers discrepancies in Dronkus's story, revealing deeper layers of deceit.
Notable Quote:
"He wanted to help me. There are many good patriots who have to work for the Germans."
— Johannes Dronkus [45:30]
Dronkus recounts his involvement in the black market, driven by economic desperation and the need to support his ailing wife. His narrative details his recruitment into the escape plan orchestrated by a harbor official, highlighting the complexities and risks involved in such operations.
Uncovering the True Spy
Pinto's investigation takes a pivotal turn when he discovers subtle markings in a Dutch-English dictionary belonging to Dronkus. These markings, resembling cryptic pinpricks under specific letters, lead to the revelation of espionage activities.
Notable Quote:
"Perkins. Perkins. This was it. The markings continued on successive pages."
— Lieutenant Colonel Pinto [58:20]
The discovery of these coded messages confirms Pinto's suspicions, exposing Dronkus as a spy working covertly for the Germans. This revelation not only jeopardizes the integrity of the escape operation but also underscores the pervasive nature of espionage during the war.
Conclusion and Aftermath
The interrogation concludes with Dronkus's confession and the subsequent execution of his espionage activities. The episode closes by recounting the real-life trial and execution of Johannes Jacobus Dronkus in December 1942, emphasizing the severe consequences faced by those involved in spy activities.
Notable Quote:
"He was condemned to death. He appealed and his appeal was rejected."
— Narrator [1:15:50]
Final Thoughts
"One Must Die" masterfully intertwines suspenseful storytelling with historical authenticity, offering listeners a vivid depiction of wartime espionage and counterintelligence efforts. Through detailed character development and strategic plot progression, the episode captures the high-stakes environment of enemy spy detection, making it a standout installment in the Relic Radio Thrillers series.
Credits
- Colonel Oreste Pinto: Bernard Archer
- Scriptwriter: Robert Barr
- Producer: Charles Max
- Production: BBC
You've been listening to "One Must Die," a Spy Catcher episode from Relic Radio Thrillers.