The Monkey’s Paw by The CBC Mystery Theatre

Summary

Summary of "The Monkey’s Paw" Episode from The Horror! (Old Time Radio)

Hosted by RelicRadio.com
Release Date: September 28, 2024
Adaptation: CBC Mystery Theatre (1967)

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of The Horror!, hosted by RelicRadio.com, listeners delve into the eerie and cautionary tale of "The Monkey’s Paw," originally penned by W.W. Jacobs and adapted by John Bethune for the CBC Mystery Theatre in 1967. Set in the isolated White family home on Lovers Lane, Fulham, the story intertwines themes of fate, desire, and the supernatural, unraveling the dark consequences of tampering with destiny.

Characters

• John White: The patriarch of the White family, burdened by financial woes and recent tragedy.
• Mrs. White (Jenny): The grieving mother, desperate to reverse misfortune.
• Herbert White: Their teenage son, practical and initially skeptical of the supernatural.
• Sergeant Major Morris: An old soldier and family friend, custodian of the cursed monkey’s paw.

Plot Overview

A Stormy Evening

The episode opens on a stormy night with John and Herbert White engaged in a tense game of chess, highlighting underlying familial strains and financial stress.

John White (02:20): "We're trying to play chess. How can we concentrate if you keep chattering?"

Mrs. White chimes in, unaware of the brewing tension.

Sergeant Major Morris's Arrival

As the storm intensifies, Sergeant Major Morris arrives at the White household, seeking shelter from the relentless rain. His arrival introduces an element of mystery and foreboding.

Sergeant Major Morris (05:33): "Aye, in the trenches at Chitral. What a time we had of it there..."

He shares tales of his past, establishing his character's depth and hinting at darker secrets.

The Introduction of the Monkey’s Paw

Morris reveals the monkey’s paw, explaining its mystical power to grant three wishes, each exacted with dire consequences. He warns the Whites about the paw’s malevolent influence, emphasizing that wishes can lead to unintended and tragic outcomes.

Sergeant Major Morris (09:31): "An old fakir put a spell on it...three people could each have three wishes. But those wishes would cause them to wish they hadn't been granted."

The First Wish

Driven by financial desperation, John White uses the paw to wish for £200 to settle his mortgage. Skepticism ensues as nothing immediate happens, leading to doubts about the paw’s authenticity.

John White (14:35): "I wish for £200."
Herbert White (14:54): "Nonsense. Here, let me see it..."

Tragic Fulfillment

The following day, tragic news arrives: Herbert has been injured in a workplace accident, effectively granting John's wish but at the cost of his son's life. This twist underscores the story’s central theme of unintended consequences.

Herbert (21:27): "There's been an accident at the Plaza."
John White (22:36): "£200."

The Second Wish

Overcome with grief, Mrs. White insists on using the second wish to bring Herbert back to life. Despite John's reservations and Morris's stern warnings to avoid further interference with the paw, Jenny becomes resolute in her desire to reverse their loss.

Mrs. White (24:32): "We had our first wish granted. Why not our second?"

The Climax: Unleashing Chaos

As Mrs. White attempts to summon Herbert, supernatural disturbances escalate—strange noises, apparitions, and an overwhelming sense of dread fill the household. The family confronts the horrifying reality of their wishes.

Mrs. White (25:17): "I wish my son alive again."
John White (27:22): "I wish my son dead. I wish him dead and at peace."

Resolution: Seeking Normalcy

In a frantic attempt to end the nightmare, John uses his final wish to undo the second wish, hoping to restore order and eliminate the paw's curse. The episode concludes with the Whites facing the irreversible consequences of their choices, emphasizing the peril of meddling with fate.

John White (27:22): "I wish my son dead. I wish him dead and at peace."

Notable Quotes

• Morris's Caution (09:31): "An old fakir put a spell on it...three people could each have three wishes. But those wishes would cause them to wish they hadn't been granted."

• John's Desperation (12:49): "I wonder whether we haven't better chuck it back on the fire."

• Mrs. White's Determination (24:32): "We had our first wish granted. Why not our second?"

• Climactic Plea (25:17): "I wish my son alive again."

Thematic Insights

"The Monkey’s Paw" serves as a chilling exploration of human desire and the perils of attempting to alter one's fate. The narrative vividly illustrates how well-intentioned wishes can spiral into devastating tragedies, emphasizing the age-old adage that tampering with destiny leads to unforeseen consequences. The interplay between skepticism and belief within the White family heightens the tension, making the supernatural elements all the more impactful.

Production Highlights

The CBC Mystery Theatre adaptation excels in creating an immersive atmosphere through meticulous sound effects and compelling voice performances. Cosette Lee (Mrs. White), Alan King (John White), Jim Bradford (Herbert), Glenn Morris (Sergeant Major Morris), and Gilly Fenwick Sampson (the company representative) deliver nuanced portrayals that bring depth to the characters. The technical prowess of Alex Sheridan (sound effects) and Henry Durda (technical operation) further enhances the storytelling, making the horror palpable for listeners.

Conclusion

This adaptation of "The Monkey’s Paw" by the CBC Mystery Theatre, featured on The Horror! podcast, masterfully captures the essence of Jacobs' original story. Through stellar performances and atmospheric sound design, the episode delivers a haunting narrative that serves as a timeless warning against the allure of unchecked desires and the inevitable grip of fate. For those seeking a blend of classic horror and moral contemplation, this episode is a must-listen.

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Transcript

[John White]

Oh, stories. Weird stories that murders too.

[Mrs. White]

Turn out your legs.

[John White]

Turn them out. Good evening.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Come in, won't you?

[John White]

What's the matter?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Surely you're not nervous. Perhaps if you can't. I think we are meant to call from out of the past. Stories, strange and weird tales of mystery and terror by radio's masters of the ma story with the supernatural.

[John White]

The supernormal dramatized the mysteries the unsold. We tell you this, Franklin. So if you wish to avoid the excitement tension of these imaginary play refurbishing calm.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Racing to turn off your rating now.

[Narrator]

Welcome back to the Horror. Thanks for joining me. Once again, we're gonna hear this week from the CBC Mystery Theater production of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation from 1966 to 1968. This story aired sometime in 1967. It's their adaptation of W.W. jacobs story the Monkey's Paw Mystery.

[Announcer]

The CBC presents Mystery Theater, a series of strange tales of the supernatural and the unforeseen of chills and thrills and adventures selected from the classics. Here then, the story of the Monkey's Paw by W.W. jacobs in radio version by John Bethune.

[Mrs. White]

Heavens, what a night. Herbert.

[Herbert White]

Yes, Mother?

[Mrs. White]

You better wear your muffler when you go off to work. I will never get your galoshes. It's been raining cats and dogs since supper time and the roads are.

[John White]

Kenny, please.

[Mrs. White]

What's the matter?

[John White]

We're trying to play chess. How can we concentrate if you keep chattering?

[Mrs. White]

I'm sorry.

[John White]

All right then. Now, where were we?

[Herbert White]

It's still your move, Dad.

[John White]

I know that, but what was I going. Oh, yes. There. Got you this time, me boy.

[Herbert White]

Hmm? Yes, You're a deep one, all right.

[Mrs. White]

Don't tell me your father's finally beaten you, Herbert.

[Herbert White]

No, not yet. He's overlooked his king.

[John White]

Oh, I see it. Yeah. Let me have that back.

[Herbert White]

Not on your life.

[John White]

Why not?

[Herbert White]

All rules of the game, Dad.

[John White]

I don't hold with your scientific rules. You term what ought to be an innocent relaxation. Relaxation.

[Mrs. White]

Don't talk so much, John. How can Herbert concentrate if you keep chattering?

[Herbert White]

It's all right, Mother.

[John White]

Oh, listen to that wind, would you?

[Herbert White]

I'm listening.

[John White]

I should hardly think. Sergeant Major Morris come tonight?

[Herbert White]

Oh, he'll turn up.

[John White]

Can't say I blame him if he don't. That road out there's like a bog check. That's our worst. A living way out here. Your friends can't even come to call, mate. Lovers Lane, Fulham. Of all the miserable, out of the way places to live, this one takes the bun.

[Mrs. White]

Now, John.

[John White]

It's a disgrace, I tell you. What's the county Council thinking of? That's what I want to know. Just because this is the only house in the road that's occupied, I suppose it don't matter if nobody can get near it.

[Mrs. White]

Never mind, dear. Perhaps you'll win tomorrow, eh?

[John White]

What do you mean?

[Mrs. White]

You know what I mean. So don't pretend.

[John White]

Can't fool you, eh, Mother? Always know what I'm up to. Don't.

[Mrs. White]

Well, after 30 years I ought to.

[John White]

All right then, what am I thinking right now?

[Mrs. White]

That you'd like a glass of grog.

[John White]

Right again.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, shouldn't we wait till the Sergeant Major Morris comes?

[John White]

Ah, he won't come. Even an ardent old soldier like him would think twice before slugging his way out to a gourd forsaken spot like this.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, all right.

[Herbert White]

Come on now, dad is not such a bad place. Leastways it's not one of them stucco villas. In fact, it's one of the few old fashioned houses left near London. Home, like I call it, and so do you, or you wouldn't have bought it.

[John White]

And a nice job I made of that, too. £200 still owing.

[Herbert White]

Oh, don't worry. I'll work that off in no time. Matter of three years, I'd say. With the rise they promised me.

[Mrs. White]

You don't get married?

[Herbert White]

Oh, not me, mother. Not that sort.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, I wish you would, Herbert. A good lad like you with a steady job at the electrical works.

[Herbert White]

Lots of time, Mother. Sufficient for the day, as the saying goes. Just now my dynamos at the plant don't leave me much time for lovemaking.

[John White]

I know. Sometimes I lay awake at nights and I think if Herbert took a nap on the job and let them dynamos of his rundown, all Fulham would be in darkness. What a joke that would be.

[Herbert White]

Joke? Some joke. I'd get sacked on the spot.

[John White]

Oh, no, it must be Morris after all. I never thought he'd make him.

[Herbert White]

I wonder what yarn the old boy's got for us tonight.

[Mrs. White]

Don't slam the door, John.

[John White]

Well, now, come in, old friend. Come in quick now. Can't hold this drawer much longer.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Right.

[John White]

Here, let me take your coat.

[Mrs. White]

Poor.

[John White]

That wind's enough to blow the air off your head.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

It's bad all right. A mile up the road by the cemetery, it's even worse.

[John White]

Here's Sergeant Major Morris, Ginny.

[Mrs. White]

Good evening.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

How are you, ma'am?

[Mrs. White]

Oh, I'm well enough, thank you. But you must be frozen. Come sit here by the fire.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Ah, thank you. Kindly, ma'am.

[Herbert White]

Good evening, sir.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Well, laddie, how's yourself? Not on duty, I see. Day week, eh?

[Herbert White]

No, sir. Night week. But there's half an hour yet.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, hand me the kettle, will you, Herbert?

[Herbert White]

All right.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

This is more like it.

[Mrs. White]

We were afraid you wouldn't come in all this rain.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Oh, you don't know me, ma. This is nothing to what I've seen in India.

[Herbert White]

Really, sir?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Aye, in the trenches at Chitral. What a time we had of it there, sitting in a puddle with the natives taking pot shots at us and the rain pouring down in buckets.

[Mrs. White]

Didn't you have umbrellas?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Umbrellas? That's a good one. Did you hear that? White umbrellas, she says. Umbrellas and galoshes are not water bottles, eh? It's plain to see you was never in the army, ma'am.

[Herbert White]

Mother spoke out of kindness, sir.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Well, I know it, laddie. No offense intended, ma'am, but hardship is the soldier's lot, Ay? Starvation, fever, and get yourself shot. That's the way of it. And all I've got to show now is one arm and a blooming medal.

[John White]

Cheer up, Maurice. Here, try some of this.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

What have we got here?

[John White]

Put your nose in it. You'll see.

[Mrs. White]

Hot whiskey with sugar and a slice of lemon.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Well, now, I don't mind if I do. He's to another thousand a year.

[John White]

Same to you and many of them.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Oh, that's the stuff they give the troops. Here, laddie, ain't you gonna join us?

[Herbert White]

No, thanks. My work don't go with whiskey.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Not even a drop?

[Herbert White]

No, sir. I've got to keep a cool head and a steady eye and a still hand. If I don't, the flywheel might gobble me up.

[Mrs. White]

Don't say such things.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Ah, you're electricians. Sort of magicians, you are. Light, says you, and light it is. Power says you, and the trams go whizzing. Knowledge says you, and the words go home into the ends of the world. It beats me. It does. And I've seen a bit in my time, too.

[Herbert White]

Indian magic, you mean.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I facky is. I've seen him do things you wouldn't believe.

[Herbert White]

Really? Such as what?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Well, I've seen a coal with no more clothes on than a baby, if you know what I mean. Man, I've seen him take an empty basket. Empty, mind you, and tie it all round with ropes.

[Herbert White]

Oh, you mean a basket trick. That's just a fake.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Fake you call it. I tell you, I've seen it.

[Herbert White]

So have I, And I've read How it's done. Why, I could do it myself with a bit of practice.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Could, you know. Well, what do you say to an old fakir chucking a rope in the air? In the air, mind you, and swarming up it the same as if it was hooked, then vanishing, clear out the sight.

[Herbert White]

That's impossible.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I've seen it with my own eyes.

[Herbert White]

Oh, come on.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

You mean to say you doubt my words?

[John White]

No, no. The lad's only taking you off all in fun.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

But it's true, I tell you. And that's not all. Why, if I chose, I could tell you things. But no, you don't get any more yarns from me.

[John White]

Nonsense, old friend. You're not going to get shirty about a bit of fun.

[Mrs. White]

Yeah. Let me fill your glass.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Thank you kindly, ma'am.

[John White]

You know, I'd like to go to India myself someday. Just to look round a bit. See them fakirs and jugglers and old temples and things.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

You're better off where you are, white. There's things in India it's best for a man not to know about.

[John White]

What was that you started telling me about the other day? About a monkey's paw or something?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Nothing. Leastways, nothing worth hearing.

[Herbert White]

A monkey's paw?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Aye.

[John White]

Come on, Morris, tell us about it.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

No, it's nothing. Don't go on about it.

[John White]

You said you always carried it with you.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

So I do, for fear of what might happen.

[Mrs. White]

Here's your class, Sergeant Major.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Thank you, ma'am.

[Herbert White]

What's the monkey's paw for, sir?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

You wouldn't believe me if I told you.

[Herbert White]

Oh, yes, I would. Have you got it with you now?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Of course.

[Herbert White]

Well, can we see it?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Oh, it's nothing to look at. Just an ordinary little little paw dried up into a mummy. Here you are.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, it's dirty.

[Herbert White]

Give us a look. Oh, it's all dried up.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I said so.

[John White]

And what might there be special about it?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

That there Paul has had a spell put on it.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, dear. Give it back to him, John.

[John White]

Oh, yeah, yeah. Take it.

[Herbert White]

Who was it put the spell on it?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

An old fakir. A very old man he was. Used to sit all doubled up in one spot. Sat like that for going on 15 years, thinking of things. And he wanted to show that people was ruled by fate. That everything was cut and dried from the beginning, as you might say. That there weren't no getting away from it and that if you tried, you'd catch it off. So he put a spell on this bit of a paw.

[Herbert White]

Why a monkey's paw?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Oh, it might have been anything else. But he took the first thing that came handy, Ay. He put a spell on it and made it so that three people could each have three wishes. But mark you though, those wishes were granted, those three people would have cause to wish they hadn't been.

[John White]

But how could the wishes be granted?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

He didn't say it would all happen so natural. You might think it was just a coincidence.

[Herbert White]

If so disposed, why haven't you tried it, sir?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I have.

[Herbert White]

Oh, you've had your three wishes?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Yes.

[Mrs. White]

And were they granted?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

They were.

[John White]

Has anybody else wished?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Yes. The first owner had his three wishes. Oh, yes, yes, he had his three wishes, all right. I don't know what his first two were, but the third was for death. That's how I got the paw.

[Herbert White]

Well, it seems you've only got to wish for things that can't have any bad luck about them.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Ah, you don't understand, laddie.

[John White]

Maurice, if you've had your three wishes, the PO's no good to you now. What do you keep it for?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Fancy, I suppose. I did have some idea of selling it, but I don't think I will. It's done enough mischief already. Besides, people won't buy. Some of them think it's a fairy tale and someone to try it first and pay after.

[Mrs. White]

Well, if you could have another three wishes, would you?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I don't know. I don't. No, no, no. I'm damned if I would. I've had my fill of this cursed pot. It's time the world was rid of it.

[John White]

Are you not in the fire?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Yes, in the fire.

[John White]

There. No, no. Here. I'll get it out.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Don't be a fool.

[John White]

Let it burn.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Let the infernal things burn, I tell you.

[John White]

Not if I can help.

[Mrs. White]

Ah.

[John White]

Got it. There we are.

[Herbert White]

Is it burnt?

[John White]

No, it's just singed a bit.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Shut it back again, ma'am?

[Mrs. White]

No.

[John White]

If you don't want it, give it to me.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Not I. Not I. My hands are clear of it. I threw it on the fire. If you keep it, don't blame me for what happens. But if you have any sense, you'll pitch it back.

[John White]

Yes.

[Mrs. White]

Do as he says, John, please.

[John White]

No, I'm going to keep it now. What do you say, Abbott?

[Herbert White]

I say keep it if you want to. Stuff and nonsense anyhow.

[John White]

Stuff and nonsense? Yes, I wonder. Wish I stop.

[Mrs. White]

What?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Mind what you're doing. That's not the way.

[John White]

What do you mean it's not?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I mean that's not the right way to wish.

[John White]

What is the right way?

[Mrs. White]

Oh, don't have anything to do with it, John.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

That's what I say, ma'am. But if I don't tell him what to do, he might go wishing for something he didn't mean to by accident. Look, you hold the paw in your right hand first, then wish aloud. But I warn you, White. I warn you.

[Mrs. White]

Sounds like the Arabian Nights.

[John White]

What shall I wish for, Jenny?

[Mrs. White]

Well, let me see. You might wish for me four better events to do my house.

[John White]

All right you are. Here we go. I wish.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Stop it. Stop it.

[John White]

What's the matter?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

If you must wish, wish for something sensible.

[John White]

All right, suppose I wish.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

No, wait, wait. I can't stand this. Where's my coat?

[Mrs. White]

You're not going?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Yes, ma'am, I must. My nerves aren't up to this. Get my coat, will you, laddie?

[Herbert White]

Well, if you wait a bit, sir, I'll come along with you. I go your way.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Thank you, lad, but I can't stay any longer.

[John White]

Not even for another glass of Drum?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Not for anything. I don't want to be here when you wish. I wish you will as soon as my back is turned.

[John White]

What makes you think so?

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Because I know. I know. Pitch it in the fire. Thank you. Now, mind. I warned you, White. I warned all of you. Remember?

[John White]

Yes, yes. Don't worry about us, old friend. Here, here.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

What's this?

[John White]

But the monkey's poor.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

No, no. I'll take no money for it.

[John White]

Yes, you will.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Well, good night, all.

[Mrs. White]

Good night, Sergeant. Well, what do you make of that.

[Herbert White]

Poor old sergeant major? If there's no more in his monkey's paw than there is in his other stories, we shan't make much out of it.

[Mrs. White]

John, did you give him something for it?

[John White]

Oh, just a trifle.

[Mrs. White]

Well, you shouldn't have, throwing your money about.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

I wonder.

[Herbert White]

Wonder what?

[John White]

I wonder whether we haven't better chuck it back on the fire.

[Herbert White]

What for? Why, we're all going to be rich and famous and happy.

[Mrs. White]

Throw it on the fire. Indeed. When you've given good money for it.

[Herbert White]

Wish to be an emperor, dad. Then you can't be henpecked anymore.

[Mrs. White]

That'll be enough of that, young man. You be quiet.

[John White]

You know, when I stop to think of it, I don't know what to wish for, and that's a fact. I seem to have got all I want.

[Herbert White]

If only you'd cleared the debt on the house, you'd be perfectly happy. Eh, dad?

[John White]

Oh, that's right.

[Herbert White]

Well, go ahead. Wish for the £200. That'll just do it.

[John White]

Shall I?

[Herbert White]

Of course. Here's the pork. Now take it in your right hand and wish.

[Mrs. White]

No, don't, John. Don't have anything to do with it. Go on, dad.

[John White]

Go on. Yes, by Jove, I will. I wish for £200.

[Mrs. White]

John. What is it?

[John White]

It moved as I wish. The poor twisted my end like a snake.

[Herbert White]

Nonsense. Here, let me see it. Why, it's as stiff as a bone.

[John White]

I tell you, it moved.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

How?

[Mrs. White]

It was just your fancy.

[John White]

No.

[Herbert White]

Well, I don't see any money anywhere, and I bet I never shall.

[John White]

Thank God there's no harm done. But that give me a shock and no mistake.

[Herbert White]

Oh, Half past eleven.

[Mrs. White]

Time I was off, mind you take your colossus.

[Herbert White]

I don't.

[Mrs. White]

And you won't be late for breakfast, will you?

[Herbert White]

Not if I can help it. But I'll be walking home, you know.

[Mrs. White]

Walking? Why?

[Herbert White]

Well, I can't take my bike in this weather, so don't wait for me after nine.

[Mrs. White]

All right. Have you got your scarf?

[Herbert White]

Aye. All set. Good night, mother.

[Mrs. White]

Good night, dear.

[Herbert White]

You'll find the 200 pounds tied up in the middle of your bed, I expect, dad.

[John White]

Don't joke about it, son.

[Herbert White]

And a monkey hanging by his tail from the bedpost, watching you count your golden sovereign.

[John White]

Her bet?

[Herbert White]

Yeah.

[John White]

Nothing. Nothing. Good night, my boy.

[Mrs. White]

Good night, dad. What's wrong?

[John White]

Top bolted skip again. There. I must get Herbert to look at it in the morning.

[Mrs. White]

Well, I'm off to bed. Will you see to the fire?

[John White]

Yes, all right. Hey, Jenny. Jenny.

[Mrs. White]

What's the matter? John? What is it?

[John White]

It's nothing. It's nothing. I. I just saw faces in the fire.

[Mrs. White]

Oh. Well, come along to bed, John. Breakfast ready.

[John White]

Night you are. No sign of Herbert yet?

[Mrs. White]

No. He hasn't got his bicycle. He said not to wait after nine.

[John White]

Oh, yes, I've forgotten. Well, he's got a fine day for walking home. Cleared up nicely. Oh, by the way, where did you leave the monkey's paw last night?

[Mrs. White]

On the mantelpiece. Still there. Silly dirty thing. Spells indeed.

[John White]

Old Morris and his yarns. I suppose all old sojers are the same.

[Mrs. White]

The idea of our listening to such nonsense. How could wishes be granted nowadays?

[John White]

Doesn't seem likely, does it?

[Mrs. White]

And all the rubbish about it's making you unhappy. If you wish was granted.

[John White]

You've been thinking about it, have you?

[Mrs. White]

No, of course not. But how could 200 pounds hurt anyone?

[John White]

Well, I suppose it might drop on your head in the lump. Don't see any other way, though. Mind you, Morris said it would happen so naturally that you might take it for a Coincidence, if so disposed.

[Mrs. White]

Well, it hasn't happened, that's all I know. And it isn't going to. What's that?

[John White]

Postman. Of course. Yes. There's a letter in the box.

[Mrs. White]

A letter? Oh, John, suppose.

[John White]

Suppose what?

[Mrs. White]

Suppose it's the £200.

[John White]

Yeah. Don't talk nonsense. What's got into you?

[Mrs. White]

Nothing. I just stopped.

[John White]

Not a bill I expected.

[Mrs. White]

No, it's not. It's quite thick. It's got something crisp inside.

[John White]

Who. Who's it for?

[Mrs. White]

You?

[John White]

Yeah. Let me see. Hey, that's odd.

[Mrs. White]

Well, go on, open it.

[John White]

All right, all right. Don't get excited.

[Mrs. White]

Take care. Don't tear it if it's bank notes.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Bank notes.

[John White]

Fat shop.

[Mrs. White]

Oh. Looks like some kind of document.

[John White]

Ah, the slip of paper.

[Mrs. White]

What does it say?

[John White]

It says, sir, enclosed please find receipt for interest on the mortgages of £200 in your house.

[Herbert White]

Duly received.

[Mrs. White]

Well, that comes of listening to tipsy old soldiers.

[John White]

What does?

[Mrs. White]

You thought there was banknotes in it.

[John White]

I did not. I said all along how Herbert will.

[Mrs. White]

Laugh when I tell him.

[John White]

Well, you're not going to tell him. You're going to keep your mouth shut, that's what you're going to do. I'll never hear the last of it.

[Mrs. White]

It serves you right for trying to frighten us last night.

[John White]

What do you mean?

[Mrs. White]

Seeing the paw moved when you wished.

[John White]

But he did. It did move. Now that I'll swear to.

[Mrs. White]

You thought it.

[John White]

No, I say it did. There was no thinking about it.

[Mrs. White]

You'd be here by now, walking or not. He's off at 8.

[John White]

But he has to change and wash before he leaves the plant.

[Mrs. White]

Still, it shouldn't take him all this time. I'll. I'll look and see if he's coming down the road.

[John White]

Your sausages are getting cold. See them?

[Mrs. White]

No, but there's a man by the garden gate. Looks. Looks to be a gentleman.

[John White]

What about him?

[Mrs. White]

He's looking at the house as if he wants to come in. He can't seem to make every smile.

[John White]

Oh, go on. You're full of fancies this morning.

[Mrs. White]

No, he's going on now. He's coming back.

[John White]

Well, don't let him see you peeping John.

[Mrs. White]

He looks like a sort of lawyer.

[John White]

Well, what of it?

[Mrs. White]

You know. But suppose. Suppose he's coming about for £200.

[John White]

Oh, nonsense. Come and eat your breakfast. Where is he now?

[Mrs. White]

At the gate again. He's coming in. Oh, dear. And me all untidy.

[John White]

What's the matter? He's made a mistake. Come to the wrong house.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, I'll go. I'll go to hootie.

[Herbert White]

Is this Mr. White?

[Mrs. White]

Yes. Come in, sir.

[John White]

Thank you.

[Mrs. White]

Please step in. You must overlook feeling so untidy.

[John White]

Good morning, sir. Good morning.

[Herbert White]

My name.

[John White]

You.

[Mrs. White]

Please be seated.

[John White]

Thank you.

[Herbert White]

No, I think not.

[John White]

I. You wanted to see me, sir?

[Herbert White]

Oh, yes, yes. I come from the electrical works.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, then it's our son Herbert you want to see. He'll be home soon. If you care to wait, I know.

[Herbert White]

No, I. I was asked to call. That is, the company sent me to.

[Mrs. White]

Is anything the matter?

[Herbert White]

Yes, I'm afraid so.

[Mrs. White]

Herbert, what's happened? Is he hurt?

[John White]

Now, now, Mother, don't jump to conclusions. Let the gentleman speak. You've not brought bad news, sir, I'm sure.

[Herbert White]

Oh, I'm sorry, Mr. White. This. There's been an accident at the Plaza.

[Mrs. White]

Herbert. He's been hurt.

[Herbert White]

Yes, I'm sorry.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, John.

[John White]

Badly hurt, sir?

[Herbert White]

Yes, very badly.

[John White]

Is he in pain?

[Herbert White]

No, no, no, he's not in pain.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, thank God. Thank God.

[John White]

But if he's badly hurt. Good God, you can't mean.

[Herbert White]

Yes. Oh, my boy.

[Mrs. White]

My boy. Oh, no, no, no.

[John White]

Go on, sir. What happened?

[Herbert White]

Well, he was telling his mates a story. Something that happened here last night. He was laughing about it and not paying attention, and the machinery caught him. The machinery caught him.

[John White]

I see. I see.

[Herbert White]

The company wished me to convey their sincere sympathy with you in your great loss.

[John White]

Great loss? Yes.

[Herbert White]

And I was to say further, he.

[John White]

Was our only chance.

[Herbert White]

Please understand, I'm only the company's servant. I'm only obeying orders.

[John White]

Yes. Machinery courting.

[Herbert White]

I was to say, the company disclaims all responsibility. But in consideration of your son's services, they wish to present you with a sum of money as compensation for our great door.

[John White]

Hey, how much?

[Herbert White]

£200.

[John White]

200? Time we got to bed. Jenny. Jenny.

[Mrs. White]

What?

[John White]

I said it's time for bed. What are you doing at the window?

[Mrs. White]

Looking up the road.

[John White]

What for? You can't see anything.

[Mrs. White]

Yes, I can. The moonlight's so bright, you can almost see the cemetery.

[John White]

Oh, Jenny, please come away from there. You'll get cold.

[Mrs. White]

Colder where he is.

[John White]

Aye, aye. Is it only a week since we laid him there?

[Mrs. White]

I don't know.

[John White]

We don't take much account of time, now, do we?

[Mrs. White]

Why should we? He'll never come home again. There's nothing to think about now or to talk about. He took all our hopes with him.

[John White]

And our wishes.

[Mrs. White]

Ay, and all her.

[John White]

John, what on us. The matter.

[Mrs. White]

The poor. The monkey's paw.

[John White]

What about It?

[Mrs. White]

Where is it? What happened to it?

[John White]

I don't know.

[Mrs. White]

Why you haven't done away with it.

[John White]

I haven't seen it since.

[Mrs. White]

Well, find it. Find it.

[John White]

Well, it was here on the mantelpiece the last time I. Oh, yeah. Here it is.

[Mrs. White]

Oh, thank God. Why didn't I think of it before? Why didn't you think of it?

[John White]

What are you talking about?

[Mrs. White]

The other two wishes. What? We've only had one.

[John White]

Wasn't that enough, Jenny?

[Mrs. White]

No. We'll have one more. Don't you see? We'll wish our boy alive again.

[John White]

Good God, woman, are you bad?

[Mrs. White]

We had our first wish granted. Why not our second?

[John White]

Jenny, you don't know what you're saying. He's been dead for more than a week. When they showed him to me, I only knew him by his clothing. If you weren't allowed to see him then, how could you bear to see him now?

[Mrs. White]

I don't care. Bring him back.

[John White]

Take the pawn.

[Mrs. White]

Wish.

[John White]

No, I can't touch it.

[Mrs. White]

You must. Here, take it. Now wish.

[John White]

Shani, please.

[Mrs. White]

Wish. Wish. Wish.

[John White]

Oh, God, forgive me. I wish my son alive again. Oh. What's happened? I can't see.

[Mrs. White]

Candles can't help.

[John White]

But how could it? I didn't.

[Mrs. White]

Wait. Listen.

[John White]

Jenny, where are you?

[Mrs. White]

At the window. Sh.

[John White]

Well, what do you see?

[Mrs. White]

Nothing.

[John White]

Oh, thank God.

[Mrs. White]

Nothing at all. Along the whole length of the road, there's not a living thing. It's as empty as our lives.

[John White]

We still have each other. And our memories.

[Mrs. White]

Memories.

[John White]

There, now. There now. Don't take on so. Here, I'll light the candle and then we'll go up to bed. There. That's better, eh? Come along now, Mother.

[Mrs. White]

I'm no longer a mother. Oh, Herbert. Herbert.

[John White]

What the. Nothing. Just a rat in the wall.

[Mrs. White]

It's Herbert. It's Herbert. He's at the door.

[John White]

Here. Stop. What are you going to do?

[Mrs. White]

I'm going to open it.

[John White]

No.

[Mrs. White]

For God's sake, let me go. Why are you trying to hold me?

[John White]

Lady, I beg you, don't open the door.

[Mrs. White]

I must. Let me go.

[John White]

What we might see.

[Mrs. White]

Do you think I'm afraid of me own child? Let me go.

[John White]

No.

[Mrs. White]

I'm coming, Herbert. I'm coming.

[John White]

No, Jenny, don't do it.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Go on.

[Mrs. White]

What can I do?

[John White]

What can I.

[Mrs. White]

The paw.

[John White]

The monkey's paw. There's one wish left.

[Mrs. White]

Don't come and help me. I can't. I can't move the top.

[John White]

Where is that spore? Where did I drop it?

[Mrs. White]

Come help me.

[John White]

Quick.

[Sergeant Major Morris]

Where is that thing?

[John White]

In God's name. Where did it fall?

[Mrs. White]

Wait. Help us. I'm trying to open it. It's moving. It's moving.

[John White]

Ah, here it is. I wish my son dead. I wish him dead and at peace.

[Mrs. White]

Herbert. Herbert. There's no one here. There's nothing.

[John White]

Thank God. Oh, thank God.

[Announcer]

Mystery Theater has presented the Monkey's Paw by W.W. jacobs in radio version by John Bethune Production and direction Gene Bartels in the cast, Cosette Lee as the mother, Alan King the father and Jim Bradford Herbert the son. Glenn Morris was heard as Sergeant Major Morris and Gilly Fenwick Sampson, the man from the electrical company. Sound effects were by Alex Sheridan and technical operation Henry Durda. This is Bill Lorne speaking.

[Narrator]

That's it for this episode of the Horror. There's more from the CBC Mystery Theater, the Horror and all of the Relic radio podcasts@ Relicradio.com. you'll also find our shoutcast stream there with even more old time radio streaming away 24 hours a day, seven days a week. And as always, that donate button. If you'd like to help support this and all of the shows, give that button a click. Your support may makes all of this possible and has for 17 years. Thanks again to those who have helped out over those years. Thanks for joining me today. Be back tomorrow with Strange Tales and next Saturday with our next episode of the Horror.