Summary of "Suspense: The Cave of Ali Baba (Encore)" – The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio
• Host: Adam Graham
• Episode: Suspense: The Cave of Ali Baba (Encore) (EP4598e)
• Release Date: January 12, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Suspense: The Cave of Ali Baba (Encore)," hosted by Adam Graham, listeners are treated to a gripping adaptation of Dorothy Sayers' renowned detective story featuring Lord Peter Wimsey. This encore presentation celebrates the podcast's milestone of 2,150 episodes, highlighting the enduring appeal of Golden Age radio detective dramas. Adam Graham provides insightful commentary, contextualizing the story within the broader landscape of old-time radio and discussing its significance in the pantheon of British detective fiction.

Plot Summary

Setting the Scene

The episode opens in a grim, narrow house in Lambeth on a cold Saturday afternoon. Joseph Rogers, a seemingly unremarkable man, is introduced as he goes about his routine of eating kippers and reading the newspaper. His calm is abruptly shattered by a mysterious noise at the front door, prompting him to receive a cryptic note:

[05:53] Dorothy Sayers: "Number 21. An extraordinary general meeting will be held tonight at the house of number one at 11:30. You will be absent at your peril. The word is finality. Finality? Yes, I think so."

The Safe and the Hidden Message

Joseph Rogers secludes himself in a secure room to hide the message and instead chooses to communicate discreetly by releasing carrier pigeons with his responses. His actions suggest he's entangled in a clandestine society with its own set of rules and codes.

[07:18] Dorothy Sayers: "There you are, my pretty."

Throughout the evening, Joseph dons a black velvet mask bearing the number 21 and attends a secretive meeting at a villa. The meeting is orchestrated by "Number One," a prominent figure in the society, who addresses the members about recent setbacks and the presence of a traitor within their ranks.

Unveiling the Traitor

As the meeting progresses, Joseph Rogers reveals himself to be Lord Peter Wimsey, a renowned criminologist presumed dead. His revelation shocks the society members, leading to confrontations and accusations. Dorothy Sayers masterfully builds tension as Wimsey uncovers the intricate mechanisms of the society's operations, including a cleverly designed safe inspired by the tale of Ali Baba and the 40 thieves.

[16:20] Dorothy Sayers: "No."

Wimsey exposes the society's vulnerabilities, particularly focusing on the compromised safe that holds critical information about its members. His strategic maneuvers culminate in a dramatic showdown where he leverages his knowledge to outwit the antagonists, ultimately ensuring justice prevails.

Climactic Resolution

The climax sees a tense sequence where the safety of the society's president is jeopardized by Dorothy Sayers' character, leading to a series of rapid developments involving timed explosions and police intervention. Inspector Parker arrives just in time to mitigate further chaos, resulting in the apprehension of the traitorous members and the preservation of the society's integrity.

[29:35] Number One: "Let me see."

The episode concludes with the assurance that order has been restored, and Lord Peter Wimsey's brilliance has once again unraveled the tangled web of deceit.

Notable Quotes

• [05:53] Dorothy Sayers: "Number 21... The word is finality."

• [16:20] Dorothy Sayers: "No."

• [24:22] Dorothy Sayers: "Do you remember the story of Ali Baba and the 40 thieves? ... The words that open the door are open sesame."

• [28:24] Number One: "We must save him."

• [29:08] Dorothy Sayers: "If I can only be conversational. Come on, old thing, show us your paces."

These quotes encapsulate pivotal moments in the narrative, highlighting the suspense and strategic dialogues that drive the story forward.

Production Details

• Directed by: Robert Louis Shehan
• Produced by: William Speer
• Written by: Peter Lyon
• Scored by: Bernard Herman Romney
• Cast:
  • Brent: Peter Wimsey
  • Number One: William Moulton
  • Number Two: Ira Gerald
  • Additional Cast: Kathleen Cordell, Victor Beecroft, Roland Bottomley, J.W. Austin, William Podmore, Ian Martin, William Moulton

The production quality mirrors the classic Golden Age of Radio, with meticulous attention to voice acting, sound effects, and musical scoring, thereby immersing listeners in the suspenseful atmosphere of the story.

Host Commentary

After the dramatization, Adam Graham offers a thoughtful analysis of the episode:

"Listening to the pipes from Morse Code... it's the way that these sort of stories work. And it works pretty well as long as both sides are playing evenly or pretty close to it."

Graham delves into the character of Lord Peter Wimsey, emphasizing his significance in British detective fiction and his portrayal across multiple novels and short stories by Dorothy Sayers. He acknowledges the complexity introduced in this narrative when Wimsey assumes a false identity, sparking debates among fans regarding the chronology of the character's life.

"Peter Wimsey is more than just a character in this single story... He was probably the most beloved character created by Dorothy Sayers."

Graham also touches upon the adaptation history of Sayers' works in radio, noting that while this particular story stands out, other adaptations featured different protagonists, such as Montague Egg from "Murder Clinic."

In conclusion, Adam Graham praises the balanced duel between hero and villain, appreciating the intricate plotting that sustains the suspense throughout the episode.

"It was definitely a very fun story and it works because both the hero and the villain sized are evenly matched by making things as complicated and involved as possible."

Conclusion

"Suspense: The Cave of Ali Baba (Encore)" serves as a testament to the enduring allure of classic detective narratives. Through expert adaptation and stellar production, the episode not only entertains but also pays homage to the intricate storytelling that defines the Golden Age of Radio. Adam Graham's insightful commentary further enriches the listening experience, offering listeners both nostalgic enjoyment and a deeper appreciation for the genre's timeless appeal.

For fans of mystery, detective dramas, or vintage radio shows, this episode is a must-listen, encapsulating the essence of suspense and the brilliance of Lord Peter Wimsey's detective prowess.

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• Website: www.greatdetectives.net
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