Operation Fish Hook: A Detailed Summary of Relic Radio Thrillers' "Dangerous Assignment" Episode

Relic Radio Thrillers presents a gripping Old Time Radio adventure in its episode titled "Operation Fish Hook" from the series Dangerous Assignment, originally aired on January 6, 1951. This summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting key discussions, plot developments, and character interactions, enriched with notable quotes and timestamps to provide a comprehensive overview for both longtime fans and new listeners.

Introduction to Operation Fish Hook

The episode opens with the host setting the stage for a tale of espionage and suspense:

Host: "Our story today is Operation Fish Hook. This one aired January 6, 1951." [00:12]

Operation Fish Hook revolves around Steve Mitchell (played by Brian Donlevy), a rugged government agent tasked with a perilous mission in Haiti. The operation centers on recovering crucial data related to anti-submarine warfare, which was developed by a team of scientists whose plane was mysteriously sabotaged.

The Assignment

Steve Mitchell receives his assignment from the Commissioner, setting the plot in motion:

Steve Mitchell: "Yeah, danger is my assignment. ... Trouble." [01:16]

Commissioner: "We got a spread on Haiti here, take a look at it. This picture in particular." [01:53]

Mitchell is briefed on Operation Fish Hook, emphasizing the secrecy and potential threats associated with the mission:

Commissioner: "It's the most effective weapon against a submarine that's ever been devised." [02:35]

He learns that the mission's success hinges on locating a photograph featuring a man named F. Carlson, linking back to the lost scientists' mission.

Arrival in Haiti and Hotel Christoph

Upon arriving in Haiti, Steve checks into the Hotel Christoph in Port-au-Prince, where he plans to meet his contact, Virginia Collins:

Steve Mitchell: "I'd like to talk. Do you?" [07:08]

Virginia Collins is depicted as a determined reporter eager to uncover the story behind the mysterious photographs she took for her magazine.

Meeting the Professor and Suspicions Arise

Steve encounters Professor Ernest A. Dalrymple, an ostensibly knowledgeable folklorist with a dubious expertise in voodoo:

Professor Dalrymple: "I am one of the foremost authorities on that subject." [06:10]

Dalrymple's introduction raises suspicions, especially when coupled with the presence of a guide named Lubo, whose loyalty comes into question as the journey progresses.

The Jungle Trek and Suspense Builds

As Steve, Virginia, and Lubo venture into the Haitian jungle, tensions escalate. Suspicious events, such as a sniper's attempt on Steve's life, hint at underlying conspiracies:

Steve Mitchell: "You know, you handle that camera like an expert." [19:00]

Virginia Collins: "It ought to make a great picture." [28:11]

The trio navigates through dense foliage, encountering local ceremonies and unexplained phenomena that add layers of mystery and danger to their mission.

Climactic Confrontation

The climax unfolds as Professor Dalrymple's true intentions emerge. During a voodoo ceremony honoring Damballa, Dalrymple attempts to seize the vital data, leading to a tense showdown:

Professor Dalrymple: "Hand over that file at once." [27:03]

Virginia Collins plays a pivotal role by distracting Dalrymple with her camera flash, allowing Steve to incapacitate the professor:

Steve Mitchell: "Little too late, Professor." [28:05]

This confrontation reveals the depth of the betrayal and underscores the themes of deception and survival.

Resolution and Aftermath

With Dalrymple subdued and the crucial data secured, Steve and Virginia reflect on the mission's perilous journey:

Steve Mitchell: "Glad I couldn't. One thing still puzzled me." [28:16]

Virginia hints at future endeavors, leaving the door open for continued adventures:

Virginia Collins: "Sure, I'll give you the story." [28:45]

The episode concludes with a sense of accomplishment tempered by the lingering mysteries of Haiti's dark jungles.

Conclusion

Operation Fish Hook masterfully blends elements of crime, mystery, espionage, and suspense, delivering a compelling narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. Through Steve Mitchell's daring mission, the episode explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of truth amidst danger.

Notable moments, such as the revelation of Professor Dalrymple's deceit and Virginia Collins' crucial intervention, highlight the intricate plotting and character dynamics that make this episode a standout in the Relic Radio Thrillers lineup.

For those seeking thrilling Old Time Radio adventures, "Operation Fish Hook" offers a quintessential experience filled with intrigue and action that embodies the essence of classic radio storytelling.