Speak Of The Devil by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Summary

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Podcast Summary: The Horror! (Old Time Radio)

Episode: "Speak Of The Devil" (CBS Radio Mystery Theater)

Date: November 8, 2025 | First Aired: January 25, 1974

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Episode Overview

This episode of The Horror! features the chilling old time radio drama "Speak Of The Devil," originally broadcast by CBS Radio Mystery Theater. Set against the eerie, untamed landscape of Scotland’s Solway Firth, the story unravels a battle between the natural and the supernatural for a young woman’s soul. The episode artfully explores the thin boundaries between folklore, madness, and evil—inviting listeners to discern between the psychological and the otherworldly. Host E.G. Marshall’s rich narration enhances the suspense throughout, drawing audiences deep into a world where ancient superstitions may hold fatal truths.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Introduction to the Setting & Themes

• [00:33] E.G. Marshall: Sets the tone by promising “sounds of suspense” and describes the setting: windswept, supernatural Scotland.
  • "This is a tale of a titanic struggle between two colossal forces. One natural, the other supernatural. The prize, a girl's soul."
• The Solway Firth is introduced as a place of physical danger (tides, quicksand) and supernatural threat—home to bogies, warlocks, and the “eldritch.”

2. The Seance and the Unseen Presence

• [03:13] Aunt Jeannie, Mary Ellen, Michael, and others hold a seance, reaching out to spirits through Aunt Jeannie's “control,” Anatu—a Babylonian slave.
  • The group contacts something potentially evil:
    • "Kishpa is breathing fire tonight... There is evil." ([05:13] Narrator/Announcer)
  • A burning smell, panic, and fear ensue, hinting at a malevolent intrusion.
  • Aunt Jeannie, shaken, swears off seances:
    • "I'm afraid I'll lose some devil out of hell this night." ([06:02] Aunt Jeannie)

3. Family Past, Loss, and Nostalgia

• Aunt Jeannie reflects on raising Mary Ellen after her mother's (“Maggie’s”) death, establishing a pattern of second sight (“the call”) in the family ([07:27–08:24]).
• Michael and Mary Ellen, soon to be married, discuss old beliefs versus modern skepticism ([09:45–11:00]).

4. Marriage, Night Terrors, and Ominous Smells

• Michael and Mary Ellen’s wedding night is overshadowed by dread, mysterious smells, and Mary Ellen’s discomfort ([12:04–14:39]).
• Aunt Jeannie and Michael are worried about Mary Ellen’s sensitiveness and growing distress, echoing Maggie’s tragic fate.

5. Honeymoon, Pregnancy, and Psychological Decline

• After the wedding, Aunt Jeannie leaves the couple alone for a month ([18:02]), upon returning, Mary Ellen is overjoyed and reveals her pregnancy ([21:11]).
  • "Oh, don't say anything to Mike yet. But I just have to tell someone. Aunt Jeannie, I think...I know I'm pregnant." ([20:49] Mary Ellen)
• Mary Ellen’s health falters: mysterious, persistent “morning sickness” that is not just in the mornings ([21:45–22:05]).
• Increasingly, Mary Ellen cannot sleep, fearing her dreams ([23:22]):
  • Michael: "She won't go to sleep at nights. She forces herself to stay awake. What is it she's afraid of dreaming about?"

6. Growing Supernatural Threat & Death

• Aunt Jeannie suspects the only solution is for Mary Ellen to leave Scotland ([23:42]).
• Plans to return to America are made, but Mary Ellen collapses with pain, possibly a miscarriage ([25:47]).
• The phone is out, and Michael rides out to get the doctor ([26:14]), only to die in a mysterious riding accident:
  • "He was literally trampled to death." ([28:15] Dr. Ferguson)
  • Aunt Jeannie: "She never threw a body in her life. She was a generous..."

7. Trauma, Madness, and Fear of the Unborn

• Mary Ellen is devastated and emotionally numb ([29:34–30:14]). Doctors diagnose her with a form of paranoid schizophrenia.
  • Dr. Ferguson: "Schizophrenia…dementia praecox, paranoid type, I guess.” ([30:22] Dr. Ferguson)
• Mary Ellen begs Aunt Jeannie for another seance to contact Michael ([34:10]):
  • "Take me to Michael and Jeannie. Take me to him." ([33:49] Mary Ellen)
• In the seance, a message warns Mary Ellen the child she carries is not Michael’s and is unnatural:
  • "It's not our child you're carrying. Get rid of it." ([37:00] Michael apparition)
• Medical reality aligns with the supernatural: her pregnancy is more advanced than possible, and abortion is too risky ([38:01]).

8. Climax and Tragedy

• Faced with isolation, madness, and a monstrous pregnancy, Mary Ellen dies, likely by suicide ([41:36]).
• Dr. Ferguson notes her child appeared physically strange ([42:08]). Aunt Jeannie concludes it was “the Lord’s will”—a possible supernatural intervention or the tragic end of a broken mind.

9. Final Reflection & Thematic Note

• E.G. Marshall closes with ambiguity, suggesting both supernatural and psychological explanations:
  • "If you believe some dreadful incubus possessed poor Ellen...There is another explanation. Insanity did run in her family." ([42:56])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• E.G. Marshall:

  • "The Scots word for tonight's story is eldritch. It means uncanny, eerie, frightful, otherworldly." ([02:41])
  • "Who dreams on the Solway will wake in another world." ([02:41], [42:56])
  • "Speak of the devil and his horns appear." ([14:59])

• Aunt Jeannie:

  • "I'm afraid I'll lose some devil out of hell this night." ([06:02])
  • "You'll not have Mary Ellen. You will not have her. Like my sister Maggie." ([14:45])
  • "May God forgive me. I…promise." ([35:11])

• Mary Ellen:

  • "It's not our child you're carrying. Get rid of it." ([37:00] – spirit of Michael or something posing as him)
  • "There’s no one to help me but myself." ([38:42])

• Dr. Ferguson and Aunt Jeannie:

  • "His body was covered with hoof marks. He was literally trampled to death." ([28:15])
  • "There was something strange about that embryo. I can't quite explain." ([42:08])

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 00:33 – Opening narrative, introduction of main conflict (Marshall)
• 03:12–06:02 – The seance scene, first supernatural contact/malevolence
• 12:04–14:39 – Wedding night/strange phenomena, growing dread
• 21:11 – Mary Ellen’s pregnancy revealed
• 25:47–28:15 – Sudden medical emergency, Michael's death
• 30:22 – Discussion of Mary Ellen's psychological condition
• 34:10–37:14 – Seance to contact Michael – disturbing revelation about the pregnancy
• 41:36–42:56 – Mary Ellen's tragic end and unsettling aftermath
• 42:56 – Final philosophical reflection, supernatural vs. madness ambiguity

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Overall Tone & Style

• Haunting, atmospheric, and rooted in Scottish folklore.
• Honest about the power of both superstition and psychological distress.
• Dialogue is tender, colloquial, and laced with folkloric wisdom or skepticism.
• The story leaves listeners unsettled—unsure if evil was external or within the mind.

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Conclusion

"Speak Of The Devil" is a standout example of old time radio horror, weaving ancestral fears, psychological trauma, and the eerie Scottish landscape into a tragedy that defies easy explanation. It leaves listeners pondering the reality of evil—whether ghostly, hereditary, or both.

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Transcript

[Relic Radio Host]

Welcome back to the horror Old fashioned fear since 2007@ Relicradio.com Our story comes from the CBS Radio Mystery Theater this Week series that debuted in 1974, aired until 1982, produced 1,399 original stories. The story we'll hear today is from their first year from January 25, 1974. Here's Speak of the Devil.

[E. G. Marshall]

The CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents. Come in. Welcome. I'm E. G Marshall. Welcome to the sounds of suspense to the fear you can hear. Make yourself comfortable, for there are ill winds blowing outside. This is a tale of a titanic struggle between two colossal forces. One natural, the other supernatural. The prize, a girl's soul. And in the clash, as fire and water mix, there is a very devil to pay. Come with me now to the Solway Firth in Scotland to meet the first of the forces.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's the time it comes in, faster than an express train.

[Michael]

Is it always like this?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Twice a day.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Doesn't it ever break?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It will when it gets just about abreast of us. Isn't it exciting?

[Michael]

That's one word for it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That's why you don't dare go out on the flats on foot. If the tide was due, you'd never make it ashore.

[E. G. Marshall]

Our mystery drama speak of the Devil was written especially for the mystery theater by Ian Martin and stars Jada Roland and Nick Pryor. It is sponsored in part by the Kellogg company, makers of Kellogg Special K cereal.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'll return shortly with Act 1 WBBM News Time 1034.

[E. G. Marshall]

They say he who dreams on the Solway will wake in another world. Not only is the tide a terror, but so are the quicksands. And far worse than either the bogies, warlocks and unnamed things that haunt Scottish history. The Scots word for tonight's story is eldritch. It means uncanny, eerie, frightful, otherworldly.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Listen, if you put out the light.

[Mary Ellen]

Mrs. Petrie. Hold my hand, Mike.

[Michael]

You'd better hold both mine.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Why?

[Michael]

You can't trust me in the dark.

[Mary Ellen]

That's a rich I'm sorry, girl. Bruce. Now, Mike.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Mary Ellen. I know you two young ones think a seances are my daft, but it's not the way the Colonel, Mrs. Petrie and I feel.

[Michael]

Well, then maybe we'd better not stay.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Fuck no. We need five of the circle. It's a blessing you're here, but please be serious. All of us have made contact with your dearest ones who have passed on through my control.

[Mary Ellen]

Control?

[Aunt Jeannie]

That's a messenger who brings us messages. Hanatu. He once was A slave in Babylon.

[Michael]

Babylon.

[Mary Ellen]

It is scary.

[Michael]

Hang in, darling.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Now, may we all join hands, please? I'm asking you not to break the chain of contact.

[Mary Ellen]

Now.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Clear your minds. Make them a blank, a quiet place. I'm reaching now. Reaching away and above and out and over.

[Narrator/Announcer]

From here to the bonny, bonny other place that lies beyond our ken.

[Aunt Jeannie]

We're biding here, Annatoo, asking you back into our circle. Will you not come back to.

[Mary Ellen]

Most.

[Michael]

Precious lady from across centuries?

[Narrator/Announcer]

The time is not right. Not right now. I beg you. Kishpa is breathing fire tonight.

[Mary Ellen]

Go.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There is evil.

[Michael]

Stop it. Stop it. In heaven's name, someone get the light.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Yes.

[Michael]

Yes.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It burned.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It burned.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Ellen.

[Michael]

Where's that damn light? Mary Ellen, are you all right?

[Mary Ellen]

Yes, sir. It's all that small.

[Dr. Ferguson]

That's just the incense we burn.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'm the one to blame for meddling in the business of the Lord. We'll not ever have a seance in this house again. I'm afraid I'll lose some devil out of hell this night.

[Mary Ellen]

Ouch.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, don't wriggle so much.

[Mary Ellen]

Stuff a pin in me, Aunt Jeannie.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, I'm sorry, Ellen. Oh, but it'll take more than a pin prick to best your happiness.

[Mary Ellen]

Thank you, Aunt Jeannie, for letting me come home to be married and for such a heavenly day.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, well, I'll accept the thanks for bidding you back to where you grew up.

[Mary Ellen]

When dad died so suddenly, I was lost. I didn't know what to do.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, you did just the right thing. You came home. You're two modern young people who are a lot smarter than we old people are. It is proud I am to be part of the gamble you're making in your lives.

[Mary Ellen]

I am all goosebumps. I'll get back into my jeans and sweater. I've got a skin just like I had last Wednesday night.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Don't mention it. I should never have had you children in that circle.

[Mary Ellen]

It was so scary. What happened? I don't know. It was some kind of trick, wasn't it?

[Aunt Jeannie]

I don't play tricks. Well, it was Maggie, your mother, who had the second sight.

[Mary Ellen]

You know that.

[Aunt Jeannie]

We were so delicate and so. So vibrant. When she died, it tore the heart out of us. But Will went off to America and left me to bring you up. Well, it put my heart back. And then when you were 15 and almost grown up and he wanted you to join him, I. I was left alone again. How could I stop you going?

[Mary Ellen]

I didn't want to go.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I know, but you were his flesh and blood. I found a way out of my loneliness. Nights when the roar of the tide used to come boiling up the ferret outside the windows there I thought I.

[Mary Ellen]

Could hear Maggie calling to me.

[Aunt Jeannie]

But when the wind was skirling out.

[Mary Ellen]

Of the north east, I'd hear her.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Voice on the wings of the blow. And I began to think maybe I had the call too. That's when I started the seances.

[Mary Ellen]

Until the other night.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Yes, I'll never hold a seance again. So the subject is closed. I realize I'm just a foolish old woman.

[Mary Ellen]

I've never been so scared.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Promise me to put it out of your mind. What's past is past. Your future is all that matters.

[Mary Ellen]

It seems so right to be back.

[Aunt Jeannie]

As if.

[Mary Ellen]

As if something were calling me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, you're cold.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'll stir up the fire.

[Mary Ellen]

No, no, don't bother. I just miss my American central heating. I think I'll go outside in the sun for a minute or two.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, go take a good brisk turn down the road while I finish this hem.

[Mary Ellen]

That's a good idea.

[Aunt Jeannie]

But don't go down the Firth road. Take the high road.

[Mary Ellen]

Why?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, I saw your Michael off this morning for the Solway. You don't want to run into the bridegroom on the wedding day. It's bad luck.

[Michael]

Kiss me, Ellen.

[Mary Ellen]

Aunt Jeannie thinks it's bad luck for the bride and groom to see each other on the wedding day.

[Michael]

You can't fault that. Back in Nebraska my mother used to feel the same way. But that's just old fashioned.

[Mary Ellen]

And Aunt Jeannie something else.

[Michael]

Darling, your Aunt Jeannie sure is something else.

[Mary Ellen]

Good or bad?

[Michael]

About 90% good. I just don't dig the spirit kick.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We won't have any more of that.

[Mary Ellen]

It was awful though, wasn't it?

[Michael]

It's all kind of self hypnosis.

[Mary Ellen]

That terrible raspy voice.

[Michael]

Whatever it was saying Helen, there wasn't any voice.

[Mary Ellen]

You didn't hear it?

[Michael]

I heard something that sounded like your aunt choking herself to death.

[Aunt Jeannie]

But the first voice, that.

[Michael]

That's just the old girl practicing a little ventriloquism.

[Mary Ellen]

No, no. That awful burning smell.

[Michael]

Well, I will admit I like the Hare Krishnu incense better. Come on, Ellen, let's forget all that mumbo jumbo. Hey, dig that crazy character out there fishing in those little pools on the flats.

[Aunt Jeannie]

What's crazy about that?

[Michael]

On horseback.

[Mary Ellen]

But everyone does because of the tide.

[Michael]

The tide.

[Mary Ellen]

I forgot.

[Narrator/Announcer]

If we hadn't been up in Glasgow.

[Mary Ellen]

Wedding shopping, I'd have shown it to you.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Look out there to the west. That gilly is up on his horse.

[Mary Ellen]

It must be. Oh, yes.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Here it comes.

[Michael]

And there he goes. You'd think the devil was on his tail. What's his hurry?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Look. The tidal boar.

[Mary Ellen]

It's coming.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You mean that big wave down at.

[Michael]

The mouth of the estuary?

[Mary Ellen]

Yes, it's the tide.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It comes in faster than an express train.

[Mary Ellen]

Listen.

[Michael]

Holy.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Is it always like this?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Twice a day. Worse than the Ottoman in the spring.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Doesn't it ever break?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It will when it gets just about abreast of it. Isn't it exciting? That's one word.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Taurus.

[Narrator/Announcer]

That's why you don't dare go out on the flats. Off course, if the tide was due, you'd never make it ashore. Oh, Michael, it's so thrilling. And so good to be alive. I love you. What you say? I love.

[Michael]

Mike.

[Dr. Ferguson]

What's that?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Husband.

[E. G. Marshall]

Read that loud and clear.

[Michael]

On my way.

[Mary Ellen]

What's taking you so long?

[Michael]

Just brushing my teeth.

[Mary Ellen]

Please come to bed.

[Michael]

Why didn't you say that in the first place?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Will you come under the covers?

[Mary Ellen]

I'm freezing.

[Michael]

I'll put some more coal in the fire.

[Mary Ellen]

I don't want coal. I want my brand new husband.

[Michael]

You got him. Oh, what is it, darling?

[Mary Ellen]

Nothing. It's just. Just that funny smell.

[Michael]

It's the coal smoke, remember? You don't want coal to keep you warm. Just me.

[Mary Ellen]

Oh, my darling. Yes, yes. Y. My husband. My darling, my husband. You. No. No, please.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No.

[Mary Ellen]

No, don't.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Don't touch me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Go away. No. Oh, no. No, no, no, no. I catch you. Out.

[Mary Ellen]

Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Is there anything wrong?

[Michael]

No, Aunt Jeannie. Why?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, I was dozing and I thought I heard. What warts that I smell.

[Michael]

Is it your candle? Oh, I guess I let the fire go out.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Ay, it's a damp chimney. But just the same. Is Mary Ellen all right?

[Michael]

She's sound asleep. See for yourself.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'm sorry to bother you, but. What is it?

[Michael]

What's troubling you?

[Mary Ellen]

I don't know.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I don't know. Maybe I was the one that dreamed it.

[Mary Ellen]

Be gentle with her, Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

She's so sensitive and delicate.

[Mary Ellen]

Like her mother that died all those years ago.

[Michael]

We'll keep her from any harm. Good night, aunt Jeannie.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Good night, Michael, dear.

[Mary Ellen]

If we can.

[Aunt Jeannie]

If it's in human hands to be.

[E. G. Marshall]

Able to.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Snuff my candle out.

[Mary Ellen]

If you wish. But hear me this.

[Aunt Jeannie]

You'll not have Mary Ellen. You will not have her. Like my sister Maggie.

[E. G. Marshall]

Old Ricky could be translated old Smokey. It's A Scots name for the devil. Genie should know better than to mention him. For the. The old proverb says, speak of the devil and his horns appear. Let's see when I return shortly with Act 2. Dreams are made to die with the opening of day and superstition fades and falters in the sunlight. So by the following morning, we might hope our bride and bridegroom wake and rise on the right side of the bed. Let's find out as Michael comes downstairs.

[Mary Ellen]

Oh, good morning, Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'm in the kitchen. Come on out.

[Michael]

Morning, Aunt Jenny.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, how is the bridegroom today?

[Michael]

The bridegroom's first rate. It's the bride who's not.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh. What's wrong with the wee lass?

[Michael]

Oh, I don't know. I. I think. Now, you were right last night.

[Mary Ellen]

Huh?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Right about what?

[Michael]

Well, she had some kind of a. A bad dream. But if she did, she won't tell me about it. What do you think it might have been?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, I don't know. She's a sensitive wee thing. And she's back in the part of the house where her mother died.

[E. G. Marshall]

That.

[Aunt Jeannie]

That was Maggie's room you're in. Maybe I should never have put you there. Anyway, I'll get her tea and go on up and have a wee chat. And I couldn't tell Mike. I couldn't.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Not after what we.

[Aunt Jeannie]

My wedding night. How could I dream anything so. So vile and hideous?

[Mary Ellen]

That great gross presence bearing down on me breath so sick. The lips slavering.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And that awful fur.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Fur all over it.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And the fire burning me.

[Mary Ellen]

That scorching smell. Oh, Aunt Jeannie, what a nightmare.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, wish now. And that's all it was.

[Mary Ellen]

But it seems so real.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, it wasn't. Because when I came by, you were sleeping sound. Drink your tea.

[Michael]

Now.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It's a good thing you married that nice American boy with his head screwed good and tight. Mike, he'll blow all the cobwebs out of your head. And he's going to have a good chance to.

[Mary Ellen]

What do you mean?

[Aunt Jeannie]

I mean you two are going to have a nice honeymoon all alone for a big long month.

[Mary Ellen]

Where are you going?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, I've got an old girl school chum who lives just outside Blackpool at St. Amonsea. For years she's wanted me to visit.

[Mary Ellen]

I'm not going to drive you out of your house.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, you're going to do more than that, Mary Ellen. You and your handsome, bonny husband are going to move downstairs to my room away from this draughty old flue. And while I'm gone. I'm going to get it fixed so the fire'll burn clean. And I'll not take no for an answer.

[Michael]

I thought Scottish weather was supposed to be terrible. Rainy, damp, no sunshine.

[Mary Ellen]

This has been a very particular May.

[Michael]

Our honeymoon.

[Mary Ellen]

Yes. Sorry, it's over.

[Michael]

Desolate.

[Mary Ellen]

Still, with Aunt Jeannie back, maybe you'll.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Get a little more work done on the book.

[Michael]

Darling, I have been busy in research. It is a love story. Speaking of that, do you think look down the road. I can't. Your front's in the way.

[Mary Ellen]

That's Dr. Ferguson bringing Aunt Jeanie back. Our month is up.

[Michael]

Speaking of your front, do you know how you blossomed in the last four weeks?

[Mary Ellen]

All right, playboy.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Let's concentrate on other physical problems.

[Mary Ellen]

How do we get out of a hammock without breaking a limb?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Welcome home, Aunt Jeanie.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, Laurie. Ellen, precious, you've turned into a real Scots lassie. You've got the bloom on your cheeks.

[Mary Ellen]

It's happiness. And those warm spring winds from the West. Hello, Dr. Ferguson.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Very well, Mrs. Tilson. As a physician, I can only concur with your aunt's diagnosis. You're a picture of health. And how are you, Mr. Tilson?

[Michael]

Never better, sir.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, I can believe that. Well, I really have to be back on rounds.

[Mary Ellen]

Thank you for meeting Aunt Janie at station.

[Michael]

It should have been me without the car.

[Aunt Jeannie]

He'd have had hard shrift getting me aboard. Old Bess, since the carriage broke its wheel.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You know, Jeanie, you should put that old horse out to pass. Now she's nothing left to poo.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I couldn't do that. We're too used to each other. Poor old soul. All right, Dr. Ferguson, away you go.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Right you are. See you soon. I'll take your bags up to the house.

[Michael]

Aren't you?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, give me a hug first. That's right. Now, off you go. And me and Mary Ellen will have a week's chat on the way up to the house.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Goodbye, Percy.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I should never have said that. He hates the name.

[Mary Ellen]

I'm not sure I blame him.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, well, that's not what's on my mind.

[Mary Ellen]

How are you, dearie? You can see for yourself. Oh, don't say anything to Mike yet. But I just have to tell someone. Aunt Jeannie, I think I know I'm pregnant. Mrs. Stilson, tell me, am I pregnant?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, the tests will prove it, but I'll bet on it. And let me say that you're the loveliest expected mother I've ever had under.

[Michael]

A care.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Where a little morning sickness Is to be expected in these early months.

[Mary Ellen]

Still, there's nothing wrong, doctor.

[Dr. Ferguson]

A young, healthy woman. What could be wrong? Still, we must take precautions. I'm writing out some medication for you that I want you to take each day.

[Michael]

But what does Dr. Ferguson say is causing it?

[Mary Ellen]

It's nothing, dear. Just some little hitch.

[Michael]

Honey, we both had thorough physical checkups before we came to Scotland. The rh factor is ruled out. Why should you?

[Mary Ellen]

Lots of women have morning sickness.

[Michael]

It isn't only in the morning, Alan.

[Mary Ellen]

I'll talk to Dr. Ferguson. Maybe we should change the medication.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Mary Elle. Indeed. I talked to Dr. Ferguson, and he's completely puzzled. I'm not sure that I am, though. Is there anything you want to tell me?

[Mary Ellen]

What can I tell you, aunt Jeannie that I haven't told him?

[Aunt Jeannie]

How do you.

[Mary Ellen]

Are you in pain? I've talked to the doctor about that. Isn't pain.

[E. G. Marshall]

It.

[Mary Ellen]

I don't know.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Ellen, are you. Are you dreaming again?

[Mary Ellen]

Of what?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Over the peasants.

[Mary Ellen]

I don't want to talk anymore. I just want to sleep. Only I don't want to. I don't want to sleep at all. It's just that I'm so tired. So tired.

[Michael]

You have to help me, aunt Jeannie.

[Mary Ellen]

How, Michael?

[Michael]

Dr. Ferguson says that physically, melon should be all right. The baby seems to be thriving. It's her mental state that. Do you know she won't go to sleep at nights. She forces herself to stay awake. What is it she's afraid of dreaming about? Aunt Jeanie? It is that, isn't it?

[Aunt Jeannie]

I can't tell you just what she's dreaming. I'm too far out of touch since I went away. But I do know one thing. The only way to stop it is to get her away from here.

[Michael]

As easy as that?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, not so easy. Maybe she's bound and determined on having you finish your book first.

[Michael]

Ah, the devil take the book. Melon comes first.

[Mary Ellen]

You're sure you don't mind, Michael?

[Michael]

I'm very sure.

[Mary Ellen]

Sure.

[Michael]

We're going home to have your baby 3,000 miles away.

[Mary Ellen]

Oh, darling, I don't know what to say. Can't be too soon for me.

[Michael]

Well, it's sooner than you think. We're booked out of Glasgow tomorrow afternoon. Home for America.

[Mary Ellen]

I don't know. I should be feeling all sorts of things. I know. But the only one I can really feel is relief. Oh, such blessed relief. Oh, for the first time as long as I can remember. Days, weeks. I just want to go to sleep.

[Michael]

Good night, darling.

[E. G. Marshall]

Rest.

[Michael]

Sweet dreams.

[Mary Ellen]

You'll keep me safe. You won't let me come to any harm.

[Michael]

For better or worse, in sickness and in health. Until death do us.

[E. G. Marshall]

Sleep. Poor baby. Rest.

[Mary Ellen]

I love you, Michael. I love you. Keep our baby safe. Don't let.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ellen.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Ellen, what is this?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, I don't. I don't know. It's pain like a knife. I think maybe I'm going to lose the baby.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You're going to be all right, Ellen. Don't worry.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Get doctor.

[Michael]

Gonna call him now.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You'll be all right.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'm fine. Just get him.

[Michael]

I'll send Aunt Genie up to you while I phone a Genie. Aunt Genie.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What is it? What is it, Michael?

[E. G. Marshall]

Helen.

[Michael]

Maybe a miscarriage. What's Dr. Ferguson's number?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, you'll get him by the phone. It's out of order again. Hello?

[Michael]

Hello?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Laddie, laddie. It's no use. It won't be fixed before morning.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I'll go to the neighbors.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It's a party line if one's out there.

[Michael]

All out.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, God.

[Dr. Ferguson]

How far did the doctors.

[Aunt Jeannie]

A good three miles. Who's got a car? Only Cardinal Petrie, and he's away up to Edinburgh for his regimental reunion.

[Michael]

All right, then.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I'll go on foot.

[Michael]

Aunt Jeannie, go up and help her. I'll make it as fast as I can.

[Aunt Jeannie]

By the way, Michael, can you ride a horse?

[Michael]

Yes.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Good. Then take old Bessie. There's a bridle and saddle by her in the barn. She'll get you there fast.

[Michael]

Take care of her, Aunt Jeannie.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Don't let anything happen to her.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Right along the first road till you come to town. He's the third house in on the right. And take care of yourself.

[Mary Ellen]

Why is it taking Michael so long?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, just lie still. Don't bring back the pain.

[Mary Ellen]

It's funny. I thought it was going to tear me in two.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And then within 10 minutes after Michael.

[Mary Ellen]

Left the house, it just stopped suddenly. What's that? Oh, it's a car.

[Aunt Jeannie]

That would be the doctor. I'll let him in. Ride quiet now. Oh, come on in, doctor. What took you so long?

[Dr. Ferguson]

I tried to phone you the moment I found out, and I got here as soon as.

[E. G. Marshall]

Oh, then you know.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Of course I know. Who do you think's been taking care of Marielle? Now, you get on up to her. Where's Michael?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, Jeannie, Michael is dead.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Dead? How?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Here, let me close the door.

[Michael]

Was.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Was Michael riding to try to fetch me?

[Mary Ellen]

Of course.

[E. G. Marshall]

She.

[Aunt Jeannie]

She thought she was losing the baby.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What.

[Mary Ellen]

What.

[Aunt Jeannie]

What happened to him?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Bess must have Thrown him?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, she never threw a body in her life. She was a generous.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Something must have frightened her, driven her frantic. Genie, this is a terrible thing to tell you, but. But I examined the boy and his body was covered with hoof marks. He was literally trampled to death.

[E. G. Marshall]

So Ellen has kept her baby and lost her husband. Some evil force shadows this innocent and tragic girl and still may threaten her. Those hoof marks, were they from the horse? Or in some dark, unfathomable way, were they supernatural? A demon's footprints? Perhaps. We'll know when I return with act three.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Is WBBM Chicago.

[E. G. Marshall]

For two weeks, Ellen, after her first wild emotion when she heard of Mike's death, has retreated into herself. Her face white and drawn, her eyes black and empty, like two holes burned in a blanket. Now, as the doctor comes down after examining her.

[Aunt Jeannie]

How is she today, Doctor?

[Dr. Ferguson]

No change. Listless, unreachable, Hopeless.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And her health? The baby?

[Dr. Ferguson]

The baby. There's no doubts of its vitality?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, I. I have a terrible time getting her to eat anything really.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Must be more successful than you think. Jeannie, there's nothing the matter with Mary Ellen physically. No, it's her mental health that concerns me.

[Aunt Jeannie]

The poor bairn has been through a terrible shock. Percy, I know you. You don't think there is any chance of her losing her mind?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Jeanie, Mary Ellen is beyond me and my knowledge. Somehow. We've got to call in a psychiatrist.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, Percy, what is it you're afraid of for Mary Ellen?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Well, you don't like my medical term?

[Aunt Jeannie]

I want to know.

[Michael]

Very well.

[Dr. Ferguson]

And schizophrenia, more specifically? Dementia praecox. Paranoid type, I guess.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, well, what does all that mean?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Withdrawal from life, delusions of all kinds, persecution, unseen enemies. That sort of thing.

[Aunt Jeannie]

The second sight.

[E. G. Marshall]

Just.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Just like all of us.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Now, that's enough of that nonsense. You're all sensitive, delicately balanced women. But all things being equal, perfectly normal. Well, I have other calls to make.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Well, I. I'll walk you to the door. Any instructions for Mary Elm?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, just did. She keep on with the sedation I've provided. And Jeanne, try to persuade her to let me call in another doctor.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I. I'll see what's best to do.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Be very careful.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'll do what's right.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I think maybe tonight I'll take her on up to Glasgow and have a consultation with a friend of mine, Dr. Engel. Good man. Maybe I could persuade him to run back down here with me just to observe it.

[Michael]

We.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Till. Till I see what I can do first, eh?

[Dr. Ferguson]

All right. Another day or so. Can't do any harm, I hope.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Who is it? It's Aunt Jeannie. Mary Ellen. May I come in?

[Mary Ellen]

If you want.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I thought you might like a wee cup of tea.

[Mary Ellen]

No, thanks.

[Aunt Jeannie]

What are you staring at? Out the window?

[Mary Ellen]

The soul way. The tide just came in, roaring and boiling so fast. And now the water's all smooth and with the sun on it, everything's wiped clean. I wonder if it heals as it washes over.

[Aunt Jeannie]

What are you thinking about, child?

[Mary Ellen]

I'm thinking about the first time I showed the tide to. To Michael. The day we were married. The day you said it was bad luck for us to see each other before the wedding.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I was just joking. About superstitions. Nobody believes those old wives tales.

[Mary Ellen]

Nobody believes so many things that are outside the ordinary. So many things they say don't exist, but might be. Did you see Michael's body? After what? Did you see the marks of the hooves?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Don't talk about that, lass.

[Mary Ellen]

I know. They said the horse trampled him. I asked Dr. Ferguson about the hooves.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And he wouldn't tell me.

[Mary Ellen]

You'd tell me, wouldn't you, Jeanie?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Pin you.

[Mary Ellen]

What were they like horseshoes? Or were they cleft in two? Were they cloven hooves?

[Aunt Jeannie]

In the name of God, what are you saying?

[Mary Ellen]

I'm not speaking of God.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'm speaking of the devil.

[Mary Ellen]

Or some demon that haunts my tree.

[Aunt Jeannie]

No. This is no times for foolish fancies. You mustn't let dreams spill over into your real life.

[Mary Ellen]

Or is it the other way around?

[Aunt Jeannie]

Betty Ellen, I don't know what it is you have on your mind, but.

[Mary Ellen]

You can get me to Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Let me talk to Michael.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He'll know.

[Aunt Jeannie]

He can tell me what to do. Take me to Michael and Jeannie. Take me to him. Oh, come on, Mary Ellen.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know. I know he's dead.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I know he's passed beyond.

[Mary Ellen]

But you can reach him. You can hold a seance.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, no. I swore I never would again after.

[Narrator/Announcer]

After what happened that night when something got loose. Some evil presence.

[Mary Ellen]

Something from Auntie. You let him loose.

[Aunt Jeannie]

The least you can do is help me undo the harm. I can't. I won't. I'll get the doctor.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You dare to bring him here and I'll kill myself, I swear.

[Michael]

Join her.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Octaver.

[Mary Ellen]

No, not yet. But if you don't have that seance.

[Aunt Jeannie]

And let me find out from Michael what to do, I will be.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'll lose my mind. You've got to.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Promise.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Promise.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Oh, calm down, child. Calm down tonight.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now, that isn't possible.

[Aunt Jeannie]

There have to be more than two to form a circle.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Then call in the colonel and another woman.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Anyone.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Just promise me. Promise. I need him. I need Michael.

[Mary Ellen]

Promise.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And Jeannie. Promise.

[Aunt Jeannie]

May God forgive me. I. I promise. May we all join hands, please? Clear your minds. Make them a blank.

[Mary Ellen]

A quiet place. Open and hushed.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I'm reaching now. Reaching away and above and out and over. From here to the bonnie, bonny other.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Place that lies beyond our ken.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Can you hear me, Anatu? Can you come to me into our circle? Natu. We're reaching for you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, I can't make contact.

[Mary Ellen]

Ask for Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I have no way to him.

[Mary Ellen]

Then let me try it.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Everyone concentrate. Be still. Be still.

[Mary Ellen]

Michael.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Michael, I need you. Come to me.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I'm here, darling.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, Michael. I love you.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I love you. We'll be together again.

[Mary Ellen]

Michael.

[Michael]

It's not our child you're carrying.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Get rid of it.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Michael.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It's no use, child. There's no contact tonight. We can break the ring. Will someone turn on the light, please? I'm that sorry, Mary Ellen.

[Mary Ellen]

It's all right, Aunt Jeanie. You gave me what I wanted. I found out what I needed to know.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, I'm afraid that's quite impossible, my dear.

[Mary Ellen]

You're not as Backward as that, Dr. Ferguson. Abortion is perfectly legal, isn't it?

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, I'm not concerned with the legality, Mary Ellen. As it happens, it is, but.

[Mary Ellen]

Then help me.

[E. G. Marshall]

I can't, dear. It's too late.

[Mary Ellen]

What do you mean, too late?

[Dr. Ferguson]

When you came to me a few weeks ago and we determined your pregnancy, you must have known that. I would know. It was already well advanced.

[Mary Ellen]

But it wasn't. Michael and I were only married a month before that. You should know that.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Of course I know that, my dear.

[E. G. Marshall]

But facts are facts.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You're carrying a child that's past midterm. An abortion now is just too dangerous.

[Mary Ellen]

Past midterm? Four and a half months.

[Dr. Ferguson]

My guess is at least five.

[Mary Ellen]

That fast? Oh, God, no. It might wait.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It could be born in a minute.

[Mary Ellen]

There's no one to help me but myself.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Well, I'll drive you home, child. And I'll give you something to get a little rest. He's sound asleep now, Genie. Let's go downstairs and talk.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Poor we angel so thin and pale and haunted I. I Come away.

[E. G. Marshall]

Let her.

[Narrator/Announcer]

No.

[Aunt Jeannie]

No. What you give, you'll never take away my Never. Never going to be.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Help me, God help me.

[Mary Ellen]

We're tied. We're tied.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, that's the way for the. The time was right and for her own protection.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I see no other way, Jeannie.

[Aunt Jeannie]

So to lock her away.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Well, we're not locking her up. It's a sanitarium. It's a really lovely place.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I don't think I could do it to her. I'll care for her.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Genie, dear, if Ellen had preeclampsia or a threatened miscarriage or any one of a number of other diseases of pregnancy, she would have to be hospitalized. Now, think of it that way.

[Aunt Jeannie]

All right, Percy.

[Dr. Ferguson]

If you think it's face, it's the only way.

[Mary Ellen]

Oh, no, doctor. Mine is the only way.

[Aunt Jeannie]

That sounded like the front door.

[E. G. Marshall]

Ellen. Go on.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I'll check upstairs. You look outside.

[Aunt Jeannie]

But I thought you said she. Oh, dear Lord. I got the premonition.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Mary Ellen. Mary Ellen, are you out there? It's back. She's gone.

[Dr. Ferguson]

I gave her enough sedation to knock her out, but she's gone. I heard she's out on the first. Come on, Genie. We've got to catch her before the time.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You'll never have it. You'll never be born. Attack me. You can't have. Attack me. You stole from hell. One thing you cannot stand against. The ancient enemy. Look, Listen.

[Mary Ellen]

Coming home.

[Dr. Ferguson]

There wasn't a chance. We couldn't have saved her.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Poor wee motherless lamb. It did not take her long to follow her poor husband. But the child.

[Dr. Ferguson]

It hadn't been born and she did not want. Wasn't Michaels, you know.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Are you sure about.

[Dr. Ferguson]

Oh, yes. It was five months old at least. From the size.

[Aunt Jeannie]

Monster?

[Dr. Ferguson]

No, I didn't say that. Still, I was thinking of X rays. There was something strange about that embryo. I can't quite explain.

[Aunt Jeannie]

It was nothing you could have understood, Doctor. So at the last, it was all the Lord's will. Maybe for the best. At least Michael and my Mary Ellen are in God's pocket at last.

[E. G. Marshall]

Who dreams on the solway will wake in another world. Our story has come full circle. For us it is the end. Let's hope that Genie is right. And for Ellen and Michael, it is only a beginning. One final thought. If you believe some dreadful incubus possessed poor Ellen, driving her and her husband to their deaths. There is another explanation. Insanity did run in her family. So either way, even if there was the devil to pay, it still was all in the mind. Our cast included Jada Rowland, Nick Pryor, Briana Rayburn and Ian Martin. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. Now, a preview of our next tale. And why would I want to get rid of my coat?

[Michael]

Because of the blood stains naturally.

[Mary Ellen]

Oh, please, Frank.

[Michael]

How are we going to live with this, Estelle? You suspect me of being a killer.

[Mary Ellen]

I never said that.

[Dr. Ferguson]

You don't have to say.

[Michael]

I can tell by your face, by the tone of your voice, you suspect me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I don't know. I don't know what to think.

[Michael]

Well, if you think I'm a killer.

[E. G. Marshall]

Shouldn'T you want to stop me?

[Narrator/Announcer]

How? Even if I believed it, who would believe me?

[E. G. Marshall]

I'm sorry, Estelle. I'm sorry for both of us. I should have never written a book like that. And you should never have read it. I don't know what kind of life we can have together. You'll never know the truth.

[Mary Ellen]

But I. I will, Frank.

[Aunt Jeannie]

I will.

[Mary Ellen]

I found a way to determine the truth.

[E. G. Marshall]

How? How could you?

[Mary Ellen]

The truth is in your diary. I read your diary very closely. And I found a way. I found a way.

[E. G. Marshall]

Radio mystery theater was sponsored in part by Anheuser Busch incorporated, brewers of budweiser. This is e. G. Marshall, inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time, pleasant dreams.

[Mary Ellen]

Sam.

[Relic Radio Host]

There's more from the CBS Radio Mystery Theater at relicradio.com. you'll find all the other podcasts right next to it as well. And our shoutcast stream with even more old time radio. Relic radio needs your support to keep coming to you every week. Visit donate. Relicradio.com Click on one of the support links in the show notes. Your support makes all of this possible. Has since the beginning. Thanks to those who have helped out. Thanks for joining me this week. Tomorrow. I'll be back with strange tales next Saturday with our next episode of the horror.