Summary of "The Feast Of Red Gauntlet" by The Weird Circle

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Horror! (Old Time Radio)
• Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
• Episode: The Feast Of Red Gauntlet by The Weird Circle
• Release Date: April 26, 2025

Introduction

"The Feast Of Red Gauntlet" is a chilling episode from The Weird Circle, a syndicated Old Time Radio series produced between 1943 and 1945. This episode delves into themes of supernatural vengeance, guilt, and the struggle between duty and morality, all set against the eerie backdrop of Sir Robert Red Gauntlet's haunted estate.

Main Characters

• Steenie Steenson: A tenant of Sir Robert Red Gauntlet, haunted by his past involvement in the execution of three men.
• Sir Robert Red Gauntlet: The tyrannical master of the estate, whose restless spirit seeks retribution.
• Dougal McCallum: The estate's servant, loyal to Sir Robert.
• Sir John Red Gauntlet: Son of Sir Robert, tasked with managing the estate after his father's death.
• Doctor McKenna: The family doctor involved in the unfolding events.
• Major Weir: An associate of Sir Robert, deeply affected by his master's death.
• The Stranger: A mysterious, supernatural entity enforcing justice upon Steenie.

Plot Summary

1. The Haunting Past

The story begins with Steenie Steenson recounting his involvement in the brutal hangings orchestrated by Sir Robert Red Gauntlet. Steenie, a reluctant participant, describes the grim scene:

"Three men dead, hanging on a gibbet, hanging and swaying and the gibbet creaking in the wind." (03:05)

Steenie's conscience is burdened by the executions, leading to his encounter with a supernatural stranger.

2. The Supernatural Encounter

On the night of the hangings, a spectral stranger confronts Steenie, demanding that he make amends by distributing a hidden bag of silver to the widows of the executed men:

"This is the wood of the dead, Steenie. If you kill in these woods and you linger long enough for me to find you, then you must give an accounting." (04:55)

Despite his reluctance, Steenie complies, distributing the silver but subsequently fails to pay his rent, plunging him into further trouble with Sir Robert Red Gauntlet.

3. Sir Robert's Death and Escalating Tensions

Steenie attempts to pay his rent by borrowing money from friends, only to find Sir Robert unexpectedly dead. The estate falls into chaos as Dougal McCallum dies mysteriously after claiming to hear Sir Robert's silver whistle:

"As true as I'm alive this minute, every night since Red Gauntlet's death, I've heard that whistle." (12:16)

This event raises suspicions and accusations against Steenie, who struggles to prove his innocence regarding the missing bag of silver.

4. The Quest for the Receipt

Desperate to clear his name, Steenie encounters the supernatural stranger once more. The stranger guides him to Sir Robert's castle, where Steenie obtains a receipt confirming his payment. However, Sir Robert’s son, Sir John, disputes the receipt's authenticity, leading Steenie to embark on a perilous journey to locate the lost bag of silver in a place called the "Cat's Cradle."

"I rode away from the castle, fairly seen red. Here I was... No, sir, I have not. But I brought Sir Robert's receipt for it." (22:16)

5. Confrontation and Resolution

At the Cat's Cradle, Steenie confronts supernatural forces, including Sir Robert's pet monkey, Major Weir, who sabotages his efforts. Through determination and a touch of fate, Steenie retrieves the silver bag, presenting undeniable proof to Sir John. The episode concludes with Steenie and Sir John agreeing to keep the supernatural events a secret, preserving the family's reputation.

"Maybe we can tell it someday to our grandchildren, for they'll think they're look so modern they won't believe the story anyway." (27:24)

Key Themes and Insights

1. Guilt and Redemption: Steenie's journey is driven by his desire to atone for his past actions, highlighting the enduring impact of guilt.
2. Supernatural Justice: The episode explores the concept of otherworldly forces enforcing moral obligations beyond human capabilities.
3. Authority and Rebellion: The oppressive rule of Sir Robert represents unchecked authority, while Steenie's resistance signifies the struggle against tyranny.
4. Isolation and Desperation: Steenie's plight underscores the theme of isolation, both socially and morally, as he grapples with his conscience and external threats.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Steenie Steenson on the Hangings:

  "Three men dead, hanging on a gibbet, hanging and swaying and the gibbet creaking in the wind." (03:05)

• The Stranger Addressing Steenie:

  "This is the wood of the dead, Steenie. If you kill in these woods and you linger long enough for me to find you, then you must give an accounting." (04:55)

• Steenie on His Dilemma:

  "I'll divide the money among the three families." (06:24)

• Sir Robert Confronting Steenie:

  "What are you snails crawling in? Just you, jackana." (08:21)

• Doctor McKenna's Concern:

  "I know. This way, please, sir." (10:46)

• Sir John Red Gauntlet on Hearing the Whistle:

  "I've heard that whistle blow I the night." (12:50)

• Steenie's Plea for Acceptance:

  "I swear it wasn't in heaven that I found myself last night." (24:17)

Conclusion

"The Feast Of Red Gauntlet" masterfully intertwines elements of horror, suspense, and morality, delivering a compelling narrative that resonates with timeless themes. Through Steenie Steenson's haunting experiences, listeners are immersed in a world where the past inexorably shapes the present, and supernatural forces demand accountability for human transgressions. This episode stands as a testament to The Weird Circle's ability to engage and terrify its audience with rich storytelling and unforgettable characters.

For More: Explore additional tales from The Weird Circle and other spine-tingling stories at RelicRadio.com. Support the series and access exclusive content through their donate page.