Passport To Freedom by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Summary

Relic Radio Thrillers: "Passport To Freedom" by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Release Date: March 1, 2025

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Introduction and Mission Briefing

In the gripping episode "Passport To Freedom," listeners are introduced to Carol and Andy Lake, a seemingly ordinary young American couple residing in Vienna, Virginia. However, beneath their mundane suburban life lies a covert mission that thrusts them into the heart of international intrigue.

Andy Lake briefs his wife, Carol Lake, about their critical assignment:

Andy Lake [04:07]: "His name is Eugen Zotescu. He's a Rogarian. And as to what turns up in the next month, he may be the answer to what the energy crisis is all about."

Eugen Zotescu, a scientist from Rogeria, has developed a groundbreaking method to crack oil, potentially doubling the efficiency of oil wells. This discovery could revolutionize the global energy landscape, making Zotescu a high-value asset for both sides of the ongoing geopolitical tensions.

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Preparation and Disguise

To infiltrate Rogeria and extract Zotescu, Carol and Andy must assume new identities. Andy outlines the transformation process:

Andy Lake [04:45]: "Have the best I have. There's a great deal of oil in Rogeria. Now suppose, just suppose there's a new way to crack the oil... To produce an infinitely superior product from crude which would double the efficiency of the well."

The couple is instructed to adopt significant physical alterations:

• Carol must grow a beard and dye it dark to resemble Zotescu's wife.
• Andy provides Carol with a picture to guide her transformation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their cover.

Andy Lake [05:08]: "We dye it dark for you... Add colored contact lenses to make your eyes brown."

They plan to embark on a one-week excursion to Rogeria, trusting that their meticulous disguise and strategic planning will facilitate their mission's success.

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Arrival in Rogeria

Upon arriving in Rogeria, Carol and Andy navigate the strict security measures with caution. The environment is portrayed as drab and regimented, a stark contrast to Rogeria's previously vibrant reputation.

Andy Lake [14:33]: "Behind the Iron Curtain, secret, secrecy, suspicion and the total lack of privacy is a way of life."

Despite the oppressive atmosphere, Rogeria's love for flowers and well-maintained gardens provides a semblance of beauty amidst the grayness. The Lakes are acutely aware of the constant surveillance, making discreet communication paramount.

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Interactions and Rising Tensions

The couple's mission encounters unforeseen complications as they engage with Mimi Barao, a comrade technician with her own clandestine agenda. Mimi reveals critical information about their plan's potential pitfalls:

Mimi Barao [17:13]: "The transfer will take place at the end of the week when we get the torture... You must make the transfer then."

Tensions escalate as Mimi uncovers personal conflicts within Andy, particularly his strained relationship with his wife, Magda. This personal turmoil threatens to undermine the mission's integrity.

Mimi Barao [19:43]: "If she is any danger to us, Eugene, we cannot let her stand in the way."

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Climactic Confrontations

As the deadline approaches, the mission teeters on the brink of failure. Andy grapples with doubts about Mimi's true intentions and the reliability of their escape plan. The emotional strain culminates in a confrontation where Mimi takes drastic measures to secure their escape:

Mimi Barao [32:14]: "Magda is dead. There is only one woman in your life. Me."

This revelation forces Andy to confront his conflicting loyalties between his wife and his mission, heightening the stakes and propelling the narrative toward its thrilling conclusion.

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Escape and Aftermath

In a final, desperate bid for freedom, Carol and Andy execute their escape plan. However, unforeseen obstacles arise as authorities close in on their whereabouts. Mimi's doubts heighten the tension, leading to a nail-biting chase involving gunboats and helicopters.

Carol Lake [38:40]: "We could just plane fly out."

Despite the chaos, Carol and Andy manage to board the helicopter, narrowly escaping capture. Mimi's ultimate loyalty is revealed as she ensures their passage to safety, albeit at a personal cost.

Mimi Barao [32:55]: "I didn't want to leave any decisions up to you... Magda is dead."

Their successful escape underscores the episode's central themes of trust, sacrifice, and the personal costs of espionage.

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Conclusion

"Passport To Freedom" masterfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and international intrigue, delivering a compelling narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. The episode effectively highlights the complexities of undercover missions and the profound personal sacrifices they entail.

Notable Quotes:

• E. G. Marshall [00:46]: "The more one travels, the better America looks. That isn't to say that other countries do not have lessons to teach us in living."

• Andy Lake [04:03]: "If he made this breakthrough, it is so good for either side that a lot of heads could roll just to control it."

• Mimi Barao [32:14]: "Magda is dead. There is only one woman in your life. Me."

• Andy Lake [21:54]: "Especially after double costing them anything is better than here."

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Key Themes

• Trust and Deception: The Lakes must rely on disguises and altered identities, emphasizing the fragile nature of trust in espionage.

• Personal Sacrifice: Characters grapple with personal relationships and the sacrifices required for the greater good.

• Geopolitical Tensions: The Backdrop of the Iron Curtain and the global energy crisis underscores the high stakes of the mission.

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Final Thoughts

"Passport To Freedom" serves as a quintessential example of Old Time Radio's ability to weave intricate narratives filled with suspense and emotional depth. Relic Radio Thrillers faithfully preserves this golden era's storytelling prowess, offering both nostalgia and timeless intrigue to its audience.

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Tune in next week for another thrilling adventure on Relic Radio Thrillers.

Transcript

[Andy Lake]

Foreign.

[Host]

Welcome back to Relic radio. Thrillers, action adventure and intrigue from the golden age of radio. Our story comes from the CBS Radio Mystery Theater this Week series that debuted in 1974, aired until 1982 and produced almost 1400 original stories. Our story today is Passport to Freedom. This one aired September 15, 1977.

[Carol Lake]

News Radio 78, WBBM Chicago.

[E. G. Marshall]

The CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents. Come in. Welcome. I'm E. G Marshall. The more one travels, the better America looks. That isn't to say that other countries do not have lessons to teach us in living. They do. And all of us should see how the other half lives. Not only to improve our own lives, but to recognize how lucky we are. Particularly if you penetrate the iron curtain as Carol and Andrew Lake do in the story we're about to bring you.

[Diana Sturt]

What's the line for immigration or customs?

[Carol Lake]

Neither.

[Diana Sturt]

Security on our way in.

[Carol Lake]

They wouldn't trust their own brothers.

[Diana Sturt]

In the socialist states, all men are brothers.

[Carol Lake]

Well, I'll see you beyond the gray curtain. Hope you keep the faith.

[E. G. Marshall]

Our mystery Dr. Passport to Freedom was written especially for the mystery theater by Ian Martin and stars Paul Hecht. It is sponsored in part by True Value hardware stores and Buick Motor Division. I'll be back shortly with act one. Carol and Andy Lake are two clean cut young Americans, reasonably well to do residents of Vienna, Virginia, a middle class suburb of Washington D.C. carol's active in church affairs and she's a den mother, although she has no children yet of her own. And he's some kind of lawyer in a vague department of the government. Bowls on Wednesday nights with a regular group, is active with the JC's normal as blueberry pie. Two ordinary young Americans, right?

[Carol Lake]

Wrong.

[E. G. Marshall]

This is Andy's real work. And on occasion Carol shares it.

[Carol Lake]

You sent for me as he came. Oh, sure.

[Andy Lake]

Andy said somewhere.

[Carol Lake]

Oh, I can't take it standing up.

[Andy Lake]

Didn't you have a beard? That I remember?

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, it's hard to forget. That's the only thing that made Carol consider leaving me.

[Andy Lake]

How fast could you grow it again?

[Carol Lake]

Well, a month maybe.

[Andy Lake]

You start growing it today?

[Carol Lake]

Yes, sir. What's the beard for?

[Andy Lake]

Let me show you a picture here. That look familiar?

[Carol Lake]

No. Oh yeah, somehow. Vaguely. Hey, wait a minute. Without the beard, if he was blonde and blue eyed, he'd look pretty much like me.

[Andy Lake]

Which is just why you got tapped for this assignment.

[Carol Lake]

Who is this joker?

[Andy Lake]

His name is Eugen Zotescu. He's a Rogarian. And as to what turns up in the next month, he may be the answer to what the energy crisis is all about.

[Carol Lake]

Wow. That big, huh?

[Andy Lake]

It could be just that big.

[Carol Lake]

Is it okay to ask how?

[Andy Lake]

Have the best I have. There's a great deal of oil in Rogeria. Now suppose, just suppose there's a new way to crack the oil. To produce an infinitely superior product from crude which would double the efficiency of the well.

[Carol Lake]

That's a wild dre.

[Andy Lake]

No dream. Within the next few weeks it could be a fact. If it is, and our side wants the results, we are going to have to get Mr. Zotescu out of Rogeria.

[Carol Lake]

Do they know behind the curtain what he's working on too, right? You're not asking much, chief. What's the mo?

[Andy Lake]

That's simple. You grow a beard, we dye it dark for you.

[Carol Lake]

Also your hair.

[Andy Lake]

Add colored contact lenses to make your eyes brown. You and Carol book a 30 day in advance one week excursion cruise. You get into Rogeria, we make the contact for you. You turn over your passports and who Jane Zotescu uses them as his passports to freedom.

[Carol Lake]

Hey, hey, now wait a minute. How come Carol too?

[Andy Lake]

He has a wife to bring out.

[Carol Lake]

Who looks like Carol.

[Andy Lake]

You know, chance we gotta take.

[Carol Lake]

How about our chances? How do we get out?

[Andy Lake]

No problem.

[Carol Lake]

Famous last words.

[Andy Lake]

Oh, does she shave off your beard, wash out the dy, take out the contact lenses and come back on a passport of your own that we issue, complete with entry visa.

[Carol Lake]

What if something goes wrong?

[Andy Lake]

The chances we take, that's our business. But you've always been resourceful and neat. Yeah.

[Carol Lake]

Trusty, loyal, helpful. A grown up boy scout. I don't like getting Carol involved.

[Andy Lake]

Well, neither do I.

[Carol Lake]

You have to get the wife out too.

[Andy Lake]

That's the deal.

[Carol Lake]

And the risky part?

[E. G. Marshall]

You pegged it.

[Carol Lake]

But to find a way to step up the oil supply by 2.

[Andy Lake]

Ah, that's the beauty part.

[Carol Lake]

Okay, CK as of today, I stopped shaving. Let me know when I booked our vacation. The neighbors like to know such things. Yeah. I'll be in touch. Oh, just one other question. Shoot. All I do is spring this guy, huh? No papers, nothing else.

[Andy Lake]

Now the Tesco has it all in his head, but a little microfilm never hurts.

[Carol Lake]

Not with him. Yeah, I read. You with me? If I can get it.

[Andy Lake]

That's the way I'd figure it.

[Carol Lake]

Okay. When do we leave?

[Andy Lake]

Oh, anytime after your beard looks like you'd always had it.

[Carol Lake]

Can do. I just wish I was as sure of convincing Carol the beard was necessary.

[Andy Lake]

So tell her why.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, I think I better.

[Diana Sturt]

You going to soak in that bathtub forever?

[Carol Lake]

I'VE been considering it.

[Diana Sturt]

You saw ck, didn't you?

[Carol Lake]

Watch it.

[Diana Sturt]

You honestly think our bathroom could be bugged?

[Carol Lake]

Watch it. I'll meet you by the pool as soon as I dry off.

[Diana Sturt]

Honest to Pete. Which side of the curtain are we on? And I'm going to be stuck with that scratchy old beard again.

[Carol Lake]

The Call of Duty?

[Diana Sturt]

Yeah, I don't know if I liked.

[Carol Lake]

The sound of that.

[Diana Sturt]

Yeah, I'm not sure I did either.

[Carol Lake]

That's more and more ominous. What did it have to say?

[Diana Sturt]

Something about marriage. About how long do we go on with this cloak and dagger bit and when do we start to live our own lives?

[Carol Lake]

Hey, has it been all that bad?

[Diana Sturt]

By me, it ain't been all that great.

[Mimi Barao]

Us, okay?

[Diana Sturt]

But I. I have other notions. Like small Carols and Andy's. Do you see them in your picture?

[Carol Lake]

Well, I gotta face it. Not right now.

[Diana Sturt]

How long? Oh, Lord, how long?

[Carol Lake]

You're right, hon. Look, this is it. Once more into the breach and out.

[Diana Sturt]

It has to be even. Once more?

[Carol Lake]

Well, it's a special situation, Carol. I promise you. It's. It's really the last time around.

[Diana Sturt]

You wouldn't just like to quit while you're still ahead?

[Carol Lake]

I can't duck this one. Oh, cheer up, honey. It may never come around.

[Diana Sturt]

Gregaria, here we come. I guess it was just fated.

[Carol Lake]

Stop playing Cassandra.

[Diana Sturt]

It's the way I feel.

[Carol Lake]

Don't do it, Carol. You're infecting me. Now, look, this is a breeze. We just check in, turn over the passports and we're home free.

[Diana Sturt]

That's great. Only how do we check out again?

[Carol Lake]

No problem. We use our own passports.

[Diana Sturt]

It looks good on the face of it. What's such a big deal about this Z test?

[Carol Lake]

I thought I told you.

[Diana Sturt]

I'm a bird brain. Don't you remember?

[Carol Lake]

All right, here's the general picture. Now, you dig oil out of the ground, right? It's still raw. It has to be refined to be of any use. The oil that makes the gasoline that runs the world is the last step in this refinement.

[Andy Lake]

Yeah.

[Carol Lake]

To crack it down, it takes huge installations. Holding tanks 12ft in diameter, 150ft high heat, shielded by walls maybe 2, 3ft thick.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, and I thought I just asked a simple question.

[Carol Lake]

You want a simple answer?

[Diana Sturt]

You got one.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah. By using high voltage diathermy for heat, it is possible under lab conditions, to experiment in small epoxy fiberglass containers. That is how. Zatescu is near his breakthrough.

[Diana Sturt]

Which is good for our side, darling.

[Carol Lake]

If he made this breakthrough, it is so good for either side that a lot of heads could roll just to control it.

[Diana Sturt]

Including ours.

[Carol Lake]

Well, I didn't mean to put it exactly that way.

[Diana Sturt]

But you did, Andy. Oh. Well, I. I guess we're in, but let's get out just as fast as we can.

[Carol Lake]

No argument for me. All right, let's get some sleep, huh? We got 14 hours against the clock to live up or down to. Andy, what's the line for?

[Diana Sturt]

Immigration or custom?

[Carol Lake]

Neither, dear. Security on our way in. They wouldn't trust their own brother.

[Diana Sturt]

And in the social estate, all men are brothers.

[Carol Lake]

See you beyond the gray curtain. Hey, what took you so long?

[Diana Sturt]

The sisters don't trust each other either. Talk about being gone over with a fine tooth comb.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, I got thoroughly frisked, too, but it didn't take me that long. What's so funny?

[Diana Sturt]

Her. The jailer lady or whatever she is. You know, it's kind of sweet, too. Just goes to prove it. Doesn't matter how much you regiment people.

[Mimi Barao]

Or stick them in uniforms and give.

[Diana Sturt]

Them guns, they're still human.

[Carol Lake]

Honey, I am all for philosophy and a continuing dialogue between man and wife, but. But not right now.

[Diana Sturt]

You asked the question. It was my feet, that's all.

[Carol Lake]

Your what?

[Diana Sturt]

My feet. Now, you know I wear size three. Oh, I guess this is another country where I won't be able to buy shoes either.

[Carol Lake]

You know, I sometimes get the feeling I've lost a handle. I mean. I mean. I mean, I hear your words, but they don't add up.

[Diana Sturt]

You don't have to be sarcastic. This fat little dame in there went all over me. And then suddenly she was fascinated by my feet. I thought she figured I was carrying plastic explosive between my toes. But all it turned out was that she never saw feet that small. Tell you the truth, I wish I had never either.

[Carol Lake]

I love your little feet, Cinderella, but let's just move them so we can get through immigration. Going to be a little nervous till that's over.

[Diana Sturt]

Security, Immigration, customs. Now what?

[Carol Lake]

Let me just follow the tour director's orders. We get our one week visa stamped, then. Then tour bus to the hotel. Alone at last, except for big brother's watchful ear. All conversations conducted in the shower or with the radio on, if we've got one. If we don't, we do a lot of walking in the open air so we can speak freely.

[Diana Sturt]

But how do we contact you know who?

[Carol Lake]

We don't. It's like they say in showbiz, don't call us, we'll call you.

[Mimi Barao]

Professor Zoteschew. I'm sorry, I. I thought you'd gone home.

[Andy Lake]

As you see, not yet, comrade technician Barrow.

[Mimi Barao]

Is it permitted to ask something?

[Andy Lake]

It is always permitted to ask.

[Mimi Barao]

I was only wondering, since you are working so late. Professor Zotescu, if you feel you are near the breakthrough.

[Andy Lake]

As to that, comrade technician Barrow, I can only say while the motor hump keeps the microphones distant. The answer is yes.

[Mimi Barao]

Then the timing is perfect.

[Andy Lake]

There is a flaw, I am afraid. Magda suspects we must meet and talk. My house, side door, after dark.

[Mimi Barao]

But your wife.

[Andy Lake]

I will take care of Magda. Don't worry. Just tripped a switch by mistake. I am sorry for you should be by now. You ought to know enough to be careful around electric equipment. Any more clumsiness and I shall have to put you on report. Comrade.

[Diana Sturt]

Andy. What does the guide?

[Carol Lake]

I think maybe I'll take a bath. Carol. Or will you join me in a shower?

[Diana Sturt]

I was curious what Ms. Derza wanted.

[Carol Lake]

I want to get some of the kinks out after that long plane ride. The guide? Oh, she just wanted to remind us about dinner tonight and the free cocktail.

[Diana Sturt]

I thought I saw her.

[Carol Lake]

Keep your voice down, darling. Everything is bugged.

[Diana Sturt]

All the copies of Home. You don't think they suspect you?

[Carol Lake]

No, no, it's routine. But one Rogarian is on to us.

[Diana Sturt]

The tour guide?

[Carol Lake]

Uhhuh. She's our contact. He slept me this.

[Mimi Barao]

What does it say?

[Carol Lake]

You might like a stroll in the park in front of the museum, just across the street. I will bring you if you stay too long. Your tour guide, D. Stur.

[Diana Sturt]

Can you trust her?

[Carol Lake]

In this business, hon, you don't trust anyone. One you do what has to be done. Like getting rid of this. And keep your fingers crossed. No one gets the chance to pull the chain on you.

[E. G. Marshall]

Behind the Iron Curtain, secret, secrecy, suspicion and the total lack of privacy is a way of life. It's hard for us to imagine that everything. Everything that is said finds its way to a permanent record on computer tapes. Unless you find some method of circumventing the electronic ear. Which two secret meetings hope to do. Will they succeed? We'll find that out when we return shortly with Act 2. Gregaria, once one of Europe's loveliest and gayest countries, is drab and gray today. Its people subdued, regimented, remote. Still, there are advantages. Few cars in the streets, so less pollution. And the lovely gardens in parks. For Rogarians love flowers and grow them everywhere. The parks and the streets have another advantage. You can talk freely with nothing to fear. But the human ear.

[Mimi Barao]

There are some boutiques over there I'd.

[Diana Sturt]

Like to go and browse through. I might find some shoes.

[Carol Lake]

I doubt it, Roger. And women seem to start at size 7, minimum.

[Diana Sturt]

Okay for you. You don't have my problem.

[Carol Lake]

Well, I don't know about that. I've heard about it ever since I met you. You know, you should have been born in the Ming dynasty in China. With a size 3, you wouldn't have had to have your feet bound to achieve perfection. Just let nature take its course.

[Diana Sturt]

Very funny. Any chance we can wander over and see if maybe some unsung Rogerian cobbler has added art to nature and made a shoe to fit me?

[Carol Lake]

We gotta wait for Diana Sturtson.

[Diana Sturt]

She could find us over there.

[Carol Lake]

We couldn't talk freely in the stores. Let's keep it in the open.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, I still don't believe it.

[Carol Lake]

It's a fact of life, Carol.

[Diana Sturt]

But who'd have time to listen to everything everyone ever said?

[Carol Lake]

Well, nobody does.

[Andy Lake]

It's just.

[Carol Lake]

It's a spot check. So you never know when you said the wrong thing at the right time till the knock comes on the door.

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, it's spooky.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah. Oh, watch it. Here she comes.

[Mimi Barao]

Mr. And Mrs. Lake. I am looking for you. Do you see?

[Carol Lake]

I. I guess we do. We. We did something wrong?

[Mimi Barao]

No, no. But I was gathering the tour together and you were missing. So I look out and see you are here. And I come to tell you that it is mostly time for dinner. And vamos.

[Carol Lake]

Gracias. And the number 30. Over and out. Okay, we've exchanged the passwords. We're all set.

[Mimi Barao]

No, no, no. Must talk quickly. The transfer will take place at the end of the week when we get the torture.

[Diana Sturt]

Where?

[Mimi Barao]

At the Danube delta, towards the mouth of the river. When we stop for lunch and get off the boat, the other will be there. You must make the transfer then.

[Carol Lake]

And what about us?

[Mimi Barao]

Remember this name, Nicholas Chis.

[Andy Lake]

Miguel.

[Carol Lake]

Okay. It's like an old popular song, only so different.

[Mimi Barao]

What do you mean?

[Carol Lake]

It's easy to forget, but so hard to remember.

[Mimi Barao]

Nicholas will do. He will take you to a cargo boat after dark and they will smuggle you into Turkey.

[Diana Sturt]

And Professor Zotescu?

[Mimi Barao]

He will use your passports to get out as planned. Oh, by the way, you better keep as covered up as possible. Mrs. Lake.

[Diana Sturt]

Am I so different from his wife?

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, just playing it safe. Now with the beard, your husband looks enough like Zotescu to be his twin.

[Carol Lake]

Okay, we're checked out. Just one thing.

[Mimi Barao]

Yes?

[Carol Lake]

I'm puzzled. What's in this for you, Diana?

[Mimi Barao]

You like my tour guide accent? Welcome to Hugaria. I do so hope you will find to love it.

[Diana Sturt]

But you don't have an accent when.

[Mimi Barao]

You speak to us. My mother and father came to America during World War II. I was born on Barrack Street, Lower Seventh Avenue, New York.

[Diana Sturt]

Then what are you doing?

[Mimi Barao]

What's a nice girl like me doing here? My parents are dead. But my brothers, older sisters and all their families are here. I made a mistake and came back to see them. So I'm here too.

[Carol Lake]

But you're an American citizen. You could get out.

[Mimi Barao]

I was and I could. Now I'm not and I can't.

[Carol Lake]

Diana. What can I say?

[Mimi Barao]

Nothing. And I've said too much already.

[Andy Lake]

Who is it?

[Mimi Barao]

Lumu.

[Andy Lake]

A moment. You are sure you were not followed?

[Mimi Barao]

I'm sure.

[Carol Lake]

How?

[Mimi Barao]

My cousin is a hairdresser. I'm there having a touch up. She let me out the back door.

[Andy Lake]

I suppose I must risk it. Come in.

[Mimi Barao]

Where's your wife?

[Andy Lake]

She's asleep. Brandy. And the head for some drugs.

[Mimi Barao]

So dangerous. If she knew about you or us.

[Andy Lake]

You know, she. She would be the last person to be told. But she worries me. Some sixth sense.

[Mimi Barao]

If she is any danger to us, Eugene, we cannot let her stand in the way.

[Andy Lake]

Good Lord.

[Mimi Barao]

Think what I am giving up and risking for you.

[Andy Lake]

It works both ways.

[Mimi Barao]

What does that mean?

[Andy Lake]

The government knows more than any of us, doesn't it? You know, you were placed in my department to be my control, darling.

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, Jane, that's past history. We both know it.

[Andy Lake]

How can I be sure that you are not still reporting on me?

[Mimi Barao]

Of course you can't. Because I am. My reports, as I give them, are the basis of our whole future. Don't worry.

[Andy Lake]

Forgive me, my beloved, for my doubts.

[Mimi Barao]

It is all we have to base our life on. Doubt till we escape.

[Andy Lake]

I know, I know. But if Magda suspects. If she makes any move. How can we?

[Mimi Barao]

If she makes the slightest move, it must be stopped before it even begins. If not, we are all victims.

[Andy Lake]

Very well. We are agreed on that. Now, the timing.

[Mimi Barao]

You must hold her off however you can.

[Andy Lake]

Eugene, you know what that can mean.

[Mimi Barao]

There's a lot of water under the bridge already. What does a little more matter? So long as it carries us safely to the sea and freedom?

[Andy Lake]

You don't mind if I have to be with her?

[Mimi Barao]

I have minded ever since our affair began. But I've had to accept it. I can manage to bear it as long as it's only temporary.

[Andy Lake]

I can promise you that at least.

[Mimi Barao]

Aren't the Americans here yet? You said you'd made the breakthrough.

[Andy Lake]

Supposing I have not?

[Mimi Barao]

That would be disaster for all of us.

[Andy Lake]

Why?

[Mimi Barao]

If you meet the American agent and you have nothing to offer him, how.

[Andy Lake]

Can he know that? A piece of film containing formulae which he would not be able to understand. By that time, I will have the passports and we will be safe in America.

[Mimi Barao]

Safe with what?

[Andy Lake]

The future.

[Mimi Barao]

What future? You know we can take nothing out with us but some borrowed American clothes. If we cannot offer them your formula, we have no security.

[Andy Lake]

Financially, I. Don't worry. I'm a scientist. Somewhere I can find a job.

[Mimi Barao]

Are you mad? What kind? Even if the Americans would let you.

[Andy Lake]

Especially after double costing them anything is better than here.

[Mimi Barao]

Don't be too sure. Here, at least we have influence.

[Andy Lake]

A measure of wealth, but no freedom.

[Mimi Barao]

For some of us, maybe the price of freedom could come too high.

[Andy Lake]

Lift your spirits, little Mimi. The breakthrough will be made.

[Mimi Barao]

When?

[Andy Lake]

In. In time. I promise you. In time.

[Diana Sturt]

Anton. Anton.

[Mimi Barao]

I thought she was asleep.

[Andy Lake]

So did I. Hurry. You must leave. I will see you tomorrow. Leave everything to me.

[Mimi Barao]

You know the promises you have to live up to.

[Andy Lake]

Of course, of course. Trust me.

[Mimi Barao]

For the moment, I have no choice.

[Diana Sturt]

Anton.

[Andy Lake]

Coming, mother. Be right there. I thought you were asleep.

[Diana Sturt]

Why did you close the door?

[Andy Lake]

I didn't want to disturb you.

[Diana Sturt]

Why?

[Mimi Barao]

Who was here?

[Andy Lake]

No one.

[Diana Sturt]

I heard voices.

[Andy Lake]

Ah, yes. One of my assistants from the laboratory.

[Diana Sturt]

I can guess which one. It's her. Always her. I am not going to allow you to anymore, Anton.

[Carol Lake]

No, Magda.

[Andy Lake]

You are not yourself.

[Diana Sturt]

I am not myself since she made you someone else.

[Andy Lake]

It is all fantasy. It is only because you.

[Diana Sturt]

Because I drink? What else do I have to make my life bearable?

[Andy Lake]

You could work for the state, like all of us.

[Diana Sturt]

I used to consider myself lucky that I didn't have to to because of my family connection. Oh, now I'm sorry.

[Andy Lake]

Don't blame your personal problem on me.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, but I do, Anton. I do. You turned away from me, Magda.

[Andy Lake]

My work is very demanding. It takes all my energies for the glory of the Republic. I have to spend.

[Diana Sturt]

The devotion to party line won't put me off anymore. Antonio once, not now.

[Mimi Barao]

Tell the truth.

[Diana Sturt]

You no more care for our country.

[Andy Lake]

Don't you realize that anything you say can.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, don't cringe, little rabbit. One thing my father has bought for us, if nothing else, is privacy.

[Mimi Barao]

We can speak safely here.

[Andy Lake]

I don't believe it.

[Diana Sturt]

Suit yourself. I have nothing to hide.

[Andy Lake]

Oh, no. The fact that the daughter of the party general commissary is an alcohol. Perhaps that should be her. It won't be.

[Diana Sturt]

My father has the same embarrassments you have. But I tell you something, Eugene. What will be heard unless we come to an accommodation is the truth about you and Mimi Balao.

[Andy Lake]

No. You can't stir up trouble. Not now.

[Diana Sturt]

Anytime. If it's to hold on to you, Anton, or find a way, I can count on you.

[Andy Lake]

Well, supposing I, I. I could tell you there was such a way. By the end of this week, all arrangements have been made for our escape from Bulgaria to asylum in the United States. The plan is already in operation. It covers me and and and you. In a week we shall be free. You will never have to worry about the Mimi Barrow again. This is what has been torturing me for so long. So now you know. Do you believe in me? Oh.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, my darling. Oh, why should I have doubted you?

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, it's only because I love you so much. Oh, don't worry.

[Diana Sturt]

Don't worry. I'll never be any trouble to you again.

[Mimi Barao]

You think the final case, Professor Zotischi?

[Andy Lake]

You don't have to be so formal, Mimi. The short wave high voltages we are using to crack the oil would drown out any possibility of anyone hearing us.

[Mimi Barao]

You have been avoiding me for days, Eugenie. You just have to face it.

[Andy Lake]

Oh, what do I have?

[Mimi Barao]

That was a mistake on my part. Everyone else has to face it, except you. All the things it means. Have you made the great discovery? If you have, who do you give it to? Your country? What will you defect? And most of all for me? If you are running out, is it with me or your wife?

[Andy Lake]

I can't answer any of your questions.

[Mimi Barao]

You have to decide between the two women in your life.

[Andy Lake]

Not until I have made the breakthrough. If that proves out, then it is time to talk about all the rest.

[Mimi Barao]

And if it doesn't?

[Andy Lake]

I still run. I must. If I am to be a failure. I had rather be a failure on the west than stand up. Would you still want to go with me then?

[Mimi Barao]

I think. Look, all I will say, Eugene, is you'd better not be.

[Andy Lake]

Is that a threat or a friendly warning?

[Mimi Barao]

I let you decide.

[Diana Sturt]

Isn't it enchanting, Andy?

[Carol Lake]

I found the museum kind of depressing.

[Diana Sturt]

Depressing? How?

[Carol Lake]

Well, seeing what sort of people they were or could be.

[Diana Sturt]

Ah. Oh, I know what you mean. All those costumes we saw from the various provinces in these colorful, delightful little village houses.

[Mimi Barao]

Are you enjoying our village museum? Oh, yes.

[Diana Sturt]

Diana, you get a taste of what.

[Mimi Barao]

We could be here.

[Carol Lake]

Diana, why don't you get out?

[Mimi Barao]

It would hurt too many people. Besides, I couldn't. There's only one way out for me. Feet first. Diana, I'm sorry. Maybe I envy Sothescu too much. The rest of the tour is coming back tomorrow. We get to the Danube delta. I think you will find it by far the most interesting part of your trip. Then back to Otopen airport and home.

[Carol Lake]

Except us.

[Diana Sturt]

They take the high road and we take the low road.

[Carol Lake]

And if we can't be back in the good old US Of A. Before then, I'll settle for right after.

[E. G. Marshall]

While we're on the subject of quoting Scottish verse. Let's also remember another one written by Robert Burns. The best laid plans of mice and men gang aflay. Which may be more descriptive of Carol and Andy's future than the first. Let's find out right after I return shortly with act. It's axiomatic that any plan, whether for battle, for a philosophy of living, for economic advancement. Or for the destruction of the world. Can never be complete. For there is one element no one can fully gauge. The human factor. And of all forms of that element. The most precarious and unforeseeable. Is the triangle. In this case, represented by the his wife, Magda, and his mistress, Comrade Technician Mimi Barao.

[Mimi Barao]

You can stop right there, Eugene, before you go in.

[Andy Lake]

Mimi.

[Mimi Barao]

Did you think you'd said goodbye to me that easily?

[Andy Lake]

What do you mean, goodbye? And not out in the open like this. We could be seen.

[Mimi Barao]

Not by anyone that matters.

[Andy Lake]

There is always someone following.

[Mimi Barao]

Not tonight. Magda managed to arrange that for you, didn't she?

[Andy Lake]

I don't know what you mean.

[Mimi Barao]

You know very well what I mean, Amy.

[Andy Lake]

Can't this wait for tomorrow? I can't risk Magda seeing us out here in front of our house in public.

[Mimi Barao]

But you don't really have to worry about that anymore.

[Andy Lake]

Mimi, I beg you, please.

[Mimi Barao]

You are only beginning to beg, Eugene. But you are right about one thing. Let's do it in private. Let's go in the house.

[Andy Lake]

In the house? You must be mad. In front of Mug.

[Mimi Barao]

I don't think she'll mind.

[Andy Lake]

I can't take you in there. I won't.

[Mimi Barao]

I think you will. Move.

[Andy Lake]

No, that's. That's a gun.

[Mimi Barao]

Yes, it is. Do you want me to take it out of my handbag and prove it?

[Andy Lake]

No.

[Mimi Barao]

Then move.

[Andy Lake]

All right. All right, I'm moving.

[Mimi Barao]

What are you trying to do, protect my interests? I want to make sure. When you go tomorrow, I go with you. Open the gate.

[Andy Lake]

Yes, yes. What do you mean, go tomorrow?

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, don't be childish. I know tomorrow is the day you plan to defect. Do you think I seriously believed you were just taking a little excursion to the Danube delta to lull your wife's suspicions?

[Andy Lake]

But that is. That is all it is. Media. I. I told you that Marg. That was. Good Lord. We can't go in and face her now.

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, you are quite right. Eugene, open the door. We can't face her.

[Andy Lake]

Please, be sensible.

[Mimi Barao]

It's my best talent.

[Andy Lake]

Well, then, look, go quickly and meet me at the Toja waterfront tonight. Ask for Nicholas Chishmigwi's boat. I shall be waiting there for you.

[Mimi Barao]

And how do you get rid of your wife?

[Andy Lake]

Drink and a sleeping pill.

[Mimi Barao]

Trust me, that's just the point.

[Carol Lake]

Mimi. Mimi.

[Mimi Barao]

You can't come in. I am in. I've burned my boats even more thoroughly than you, Eugene. So I didn't want to leave any decisions up to you.

[Andy Lake]

What decisions?

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, for example, which woman should you take into exile? Wife or mistress?

[Andy Lake]

You knew I made that choice.

[Mimi Barao]

I was afraid that you had. So to be doubly sure, I eliminated any doubt. This is the gun, Eugene. Equipped with a silencer. It's already been used.

[Andy Lake]

What?

[Mimi Barao]

Magda is dead. There is only one woman in your life. Me. You and I are the ones who will meet and exchange identities with the Americans. Isn't that the way you really wanted it?

[Andy Lake]

Why, of course, Madame, of course.

[Mimi Barao]

Because that's the way it's going to be. If you look back to your right, you will see the imposing monument in the shape of a plinth, mounted on Horea's hill. This evokes the heroical days when Rogaria's independence was won and this province of Zubrugia was liberated and could join in union.

[Andy Lake]

Independent but net.

[Diana Sturt]

Don't tell me Big Brother can be listening here.

[Carol Lake]

I take no chances. We're about to be home free.

[Mimi Barao]

Everything all right, Mr. And Mrs. Lake?

[Carol Lake]

And so far, so good.

[Mimi Barao]

Enjoying your tour? If you would come to the stern, please. I show you something special.

[Carol Lake]

You lead, we follow.

[Mimi Barao]

If you look backwards to the right, there is the wildlife. To the left, on the other bank, are our fishing villages.

[Carol Lake]

I'm sorry, we're behind you. It's hard to hear you.

[Mimi Barao]

Because my voice is carried away on the wind. Why I brought you here. Now listen carefully.

[Diana Sturt]

What about these other people?

[Andy Lake]

Dirt?

[Mimi Barao]

No, English. I have checked them out. We will stop for lunch soon. Check there Will be this restaurant. In the restaurant bathrooms. Not for you. You go to the hotel, fourth floor, room 419. You have that 419. That's where Zotescu and his wife will be. You change clothes and they come back to the tour replacing you. And proceed from there to freedom. Tomorrow you stay in the hotel room. And tomorrow you will be contacted by Nicholas Chismigwi. He will take you out into the Black Sea for a rendezvous with a helicopter to Turkey.

[Carol Lake]

I wish I could think of something to say.

[Mimi Barao]

We've all said too much already. And everything is better not spoken.

[Andy Lake]

Bon Diminu.

[Carol Lake]

I'm Andy Lake.

[Andy Lake]

I. I don't have to ask. I am looking in a mirror.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah. We could be twins. Okay to come in?

[Andy Lake]

Of course, yeah.

[Carol Lake]

This is my wife, Carol.

[Mimi Barao]

Hello.

[Diana Sturt]

Mr. Sh.

[Andy Lake]

Better, if not too many names. This is Mimi, your wife.

[Diana Sturt]

How do you do?

[Mimi Barao]

I have pleasure to meet you also.

[Carol Lake]

Can we talk?

[Andy Lake]

This room is safe. You. You have the passports?

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, yeah. You have the. What do you want to call it?

[Andy Lake]

The formula in my head?

[Carol Lake]

No. Film.

[Mimi Barao]

All geniuses are careless. I have microfilm here.

[Andy Lake]

Mimi, how come he.

[Carol Lake]

It's okay. It's okay. It's a calculated risk. Some things must be taken on trust. If it's a double cross, who loses all that much, huh? Quid pro quo. All right. Here are the passports. I hope we serve each other equally well.

[Diana Sturt]

Mrs. Zatescu. Mrs. Zetscu.

[Mimi Barao]

Oh. Oh, forgive me. So much on my mind. Yes.

[Diana Sturt]

Take my sun hat. And my scarf. And my glasses. We're not all that much alike.

[Mimi Barao]

We have to trust to our husband. Similarity. An American tour group. There should be no problem.

[Carol Lake]

I'm sure there won't be. Good luck and goodbye. I hope in the end it will all be worth it.

[Andy Lake]

No question for me. I only hope for you also.

[Carol Lake]

Well, darling, how do I look?

[Diana Sturt]

I'd hate to tell you. You know the ads for diapers with the baby's tender body?

[Carol Lake]

Yeah. You think I don't feel that tender after scraping off that piece? Or for that matter, feel that naked.

[Mimi Barao]

It's the way you look.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah. So we're agreed. I just hope it is all that funny in the last degree. You know, we sprung the professor. Now I just hope we can get out as easy.

[Diana Sturt]

When do we go?

[Carol Lake]

Tomorrow night.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, I wish it was tonight.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, so do I. What do we do till then?

[Diana Sturt]

I could go to sleep. I. I'm exhausted.

[Carol Lake]

Yeah, so am I. But how do we get there? I can't turn off my head. Oh, which reminds me. Give me a shoe.

[Diana Sturt]

Huh?

[Carol Lake]

Good packages come in small things. The right one, dream girl.

[Diana Sturt]

Mine not to reason why.

[Carol Lake]

That motto of the Corps.

[Andy Lake]

Observe.

[Carol Lake]

And far be it from me to suggest the shape of your heels, but one of them is loose. Ah, I see. Then screws. And inside is a handy dandy little place for secret documents.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, you sneaky son of a gun. Don't I have enough trouble with my.

[Mimi Barao]

Shoes as it is?

[Carol Lake]

If the shoe fits, just wear it.

[Diana Sturt]

What is that?

[Carol Lake]

That's a midday signal from somewhere.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh. Where's the guy who's gonna get us out of here?

[Carol Lake]

I don't know.

[Diana Sturt]

Something's gone wrong.

[Carol Lake]

All right. Hang in, baby.

[Diana Sturt]

But suppose something has. What do we do?

[Carol Lake]

Well, we do have passports. We could just plane fly out.

[Diana Sturt]

Without a plane reservation. No baggage, out of the blue.

[Carol Lake]

What could they do? Our passports are valid enough. Who knows about the switch? Our hands are clean. There's our man now. I guess. I hope. Who is it?

[Mimi Barao]

Diana. Let me in.

[Carol Lake]

Okay, sure. Right away. Diana. What's the matter?

[Mimi Barao]

No time for talk? Everything has gone wrong. What do you mean? Eugene and his mistress were stopped at immigration. They've been arrested.

[Carol Lake]

Arrest? What do you mean, his mistress?

[Mimi Barao]

He made two mistakes, the biggest of which was not taking out his wife with him. Trying to take his mistress instead.

[Carol Lake]

What does that mean for us?

[Mimi Barao]

We can't use Nicholas anymore. You. You mean we're trapped here? No, I came here in my brother's boat. I will see you to the meeting with the helicopter. I only hope we can make it.

[Carol Lake]

Where are we heading?

[Mimi Barao]

To escape for you, I hope.

[Carol Lake]

And you?

[Mimi Barao]

I'm committed now. I never thought I would leave my country again.

[Diana Sturt]

Are you sure you're going to be able to?

[Mimi Barao]

There's a rendezvous with a helicopter. You should make it.

[Carol Lake]

Except you sound doubtful.

[Mimi Barao]

I'm afraid that gunboat is turning after us.

[Diana Sturt]

Oh, can it catch us before we make the rendezvous?

[Carol Lake]

I think I see the helicopter coming in now.

[Mimi Barao]

Oh, hooray for our side. For once. Perhaps we'll win. You mean you're with. What else? I'm only held by my relatives who could suffer because of me.

[Carol Lake]

What about Zotescu?

[Mimi Barao]

What about him? He lived under this regime, accepted its subjugation, used his prerogatives to make a life. I can't be sorry for him if he defected and it didn't work. No national resource like oil or coal or whatever is wrenched from the ground should be exploited for any individual profit. That is his problem. The fact that he got caught. Caught by such a silly little Thing what? Well, the secretary who was checking for immigration remembered that your lady had such a small foot. A kind of Cinderella story, which led to questions on both parts.

[Carol Lake]

We better catch this helicopter.

[Diana Sturt]

Andy, off the starboard quarter. I think we're being overtaken.

[Carol Lake]

They're not in range yet. But that helicopter sure better get a move on before they are.

[Mimi Barao]

They're almost within machine gun range.

[Carol Lake]

Come on, Carol, get into the sling.

[Diana Sturt]

I want you to go.

[Carol Lake]

Andy, do what I tell you. All right. Anyway, you got the microphone.

[Diana Sturt]

Andy, keep down.

[Andy Lake]

Don't lose your shoes, Cinderella.

[Carol Lake]

That's okay. They're letting down more slings. Come on, Diana.

[Mimi Barao]

I'm not going.

[Carol Lake]

Don't be silly. You'll never have a better chance to leave.

[Mimi Barao]

I can't. Then only take it out on my family. You better get going before some.

[Carol Lake]

Diana.

[Mimi Barao]

That answered everything. It's too late for me.

[Andy Lake]

I can't just leave you here.

[Mimi Barao]

You might as well. I told you. Only way I could ever leave for the goddamn.

[Diana Sturt]

Hurry.

[Mimi Barao]

Hurry.

[Carol Lake]

I'm sorry, Diana. Maybe it was the best way out for you. Okay, Carol. Here I come.

[E. G. Marshall]

Beyond the Iron Curtain we have lifted briefly lives a people in torment. To those of us from the west who penetrate it, their unhappiness seems obvious. But it is their way of life. And who are we to judge whether they should or should not live with it? Everyone has problems, I suppose. We have plenty in America. Only somehow I'd rather live with our problems. Wouldn't you? They opened the gates themselves, so we entered in those countries beyond the Iron Curtain. In this case, Rogeria. A country of color and joy and wonder. Once, scarcely that now. It would be hard to conceive of a vampire in this country which first created that creature. There would be so little blood for him to drain from his own countrymen. Our cast included Paul Hecht, Martha Greenhouse, Ian Martin and Bryna Rayburn. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. And now, a preview of our next tale.

[Carol Lake]

Memo to General E.F. glynn. My first day at Project X. Record most favorable first impression. Project director. Extremely cooperative. Facilities well planned and in good order. Staff efficient and congenial. No evidence of any morale problems.

[Andy Lake]

Come in.

[Carol Lake]

I said, come in. Oh, that's strange.

[Mimi Barao]

Nobody there.

[Carol Lake]

Wait a minute. What's this?

[Andy Lake]

That's a note.

[Carol Lake]

Who'd write me a note? Let's see. Beware the end is near. Beware the end is near.

[Andy Lake]

And what kind of a message is that?

[E. G. Marshall]

Radio Mystery Theater was sponsored in part by ARM Allergy Relief Medicine. This is E. G Marshall inviting you to return to our Mystery Theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time, pleasant dream, CBS News.

[Carol Lake]

Defense Secretary Harold Brown tells an audience in Washington. Increases in military spending are needed because the Russians are continuing to build their arsenal.

[Host]

There's more from the CBS Radio Mystery Theater, Relic Radio Thrillers, and all of the Relic radio podcasts@ Relicradio.com. our shoutcast stream is there as well, with even more old time radio lots to listen to there. If you'd like to help support this and all of that, visit donate.Relicradio.com or click click on one of the links on the website. Your support makes it all happen. Thanks to those who have helped out. Thanks for joining me this week. Be back tomorrow with the Horror and next Friday with our next episode of Relic Radio Thrillers.