The Sign Of The Beast by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Summary

Episode Summary: "The Sign of the Beast" by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater

Podcast: The Horror!
Host: RelicRadio.com
Release Date: May 3, 2025
Episode: The Sign of the Beast

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1. Introduction and Expedition Setup

The episode opens with the classic eerie ambiance of old-time radio horror. E.G. Marshall, the host, introduces listeners to the CBS Radio Mystery Theater and sets the stage for a tale of mystery and the supernatural.

Notable Quote:

[01:02] E.G. Marshall: "We tell you this, Franklin, so if you wish to avoid the excitement catching a beat, refer here our."

The story centers around an archaeological expedition deep in a South American jungle, where a team is on the verge of uncovering ancient secrets tied to a formidable deity known as the Beast Goddess.

2. The Legend of the Beast Goddess

Dr. Bertram Jorgensen, portrayed as the skeptical leader, warns his team about disturbing the sacred grounds of the Beast Goddess. The legend holds that any transgression against her artifacts results in dire consequences, transforming offenders into wild animals.

Notable Quote:

[03:11] Narrator: "The mystery of the unknown. We tell you this, Franklin, so if you wish to avoid the excitement catching a beat, refer here our."

3. Millie's Curiosity and Defiance

Millie, depicted as a vivacious and determined member of the team, becomes fascinated by a particular bracelet lying near the temple ruins. Despite Kevin's (her husband) warnings and Dr. Jorgensen's strict instructions, she persuades herself to take the bracelet, believing it to be harmless.

Notable Quote:

[02:35] Millie: "Why can't I have the bracelet?" [02:38] Kevin: "It belongs to the temple."

4. Consequences Unfold

Shortly after taking the bracelet, Millie begins to experience intense physical symptoms—hunger pangs and a burning sensation on her wrist. Her behavior becomes erratic, leading to tension within the group as they grapple with the possibility of the legend's authenticity.

Notable Quote:

[05:33] Millie: "That was last week." [06:06] Kevin: "But we're moving into the jungle tomorrow."

5. The Curse Takes Hold

As the night progresses, the team's unraveling dynamics expose deeper conflicts. Millie's deteriorating condition intensifies, manifesting as an insatiable craving for meat. Dr. Jorgensen remains dismissive, attributing her symptoms to an unknown infection, while Kevin becomes increasingly desperate to save his wife.

Notable Quote:

[23:54] Millie: "I can't help it. I have this terrible craving for food."

6. Revelation and Confrontation

The climax reveals that Larry, another team member, orchestrated the entire ordeal out of vengeance. He manipulated Millie into taking the bracelet, indirectly causing her suffering as retribution for stealing from the Beast Goddess. The tension peaks as Larry confronts Millie, confessing his role in invoking the curse.

Notable Quote:

[40:38] Dr. Bertram Jorgensen: "Whose revenge?" [40:38] Larry: "Mine." [40:43] Larry: "She made the gods jealous. She spoke of his beauty, his intelligence, his skills. The gods were angry, of course."

7. Resolution

In a bid to lift the curse, Millie repents by returning the bracelet to the statue of the Beast Goddess and recites a prayer for forgiveness. This act of atonement appears to alleviate her symptoms, restoring her to normalcy and dispelling the supernatural affliction. However, the lingering questions about the true nature of the curse and Larry's motives add a layer of ambiguity to the resolution.

Notable Quote:

[42:27] Millie: "Okay, Okay." [42:36] Millie: "Forgive my sin."

8. Conclusion

The episode concludes with E.G. Marshall reflecting on the thin veneer of civilization and scientific knowledge when confronted with ancient supernatural forces. The unresolved elements hint at the persistent presence of the unknown, leaving listeners pondering the delicate balance between belief and skepticism.

Notable Quote:

[30:24] Narrator: "Can science be just a veneer also? I'll return shortly with Act 3."

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Key Characters:

• Millie: A determined and curious member of the expedition who becomes the catalyst for the unfolding supernatural events.
• Kevin: Millie's husband, whose growing desperation highlights the dire consequences of meddling with ancient artifacts.
• Dr. Bertram Jorgensen: The skeptical leader of the expedition, embodying rationalism in the face of inexplicable phenomena.
• Larry: A team member whose hidden motives drive the central conflict of the story.
• Amara (Aymara): The native guide whose interactions with Millie deepen the cultural and supernatural undertones of the narrative.

Themes Explored:

• Conflict Between Science and Superstition: The expedition team represents modern scientific inquiry clashing with ancient beliefs and curses.
• Greed and Consequences: Millie's desire to possess the bracelet leads to unforeseen suffering, illustrating the perils of greed.
• Redemption and Atonement: The act of returning the artifact serves as a pathway to redemption, emphasizing the importance of respecting cultural heritage.

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Final Thoughts:

"The Sign of the Beast" masterfully weaves horror with psychological tension, exploring how ancient legends can intersect with contemporary rationalism. The episode serves as a cautionary tale about respecting the unknown and the consequences of disregarding cultural taboos.

Transcript

[Larry]

Oh, stories, weird stories and murders do.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Turn out your legs.

[Larry]

Turn them out. Good evening. Come in, won't you? What's the matter? Surely you're not nervous. Perhaps you. Can't I tell you a story?

[Kevin]

We are meant to call from out of the past.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Stories. Strange, weird tales of mystery and terror by radio's masters of the macabre.

[Larry]

Stories of the supernatural, the supernormal dramatized by fantasy. The mystery of the unknown. We tell you this, Franklin, so if you wish to avoid the excitement catching a beat, refer here our.

[E.G. Marshall]

Welcome back to the horror. Thanks for joining me. This week we're gonna Hear from the CBS Radio Mystery Theater. This time series that debuted in 1974 and aired until 1982 was hosted by EG Marshall for all but its final year. Produced 1,399 original shows. Our story today is from February 3, 1974. It's titled the Sign of the Beast.

[Narrator]

The CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents. Come in. Welcome. Hello, I'm E. G. Marshall. Welcome to the Sounds of Suspense. Welcome to the world of your own terrifying imagination. So many catastrophic things happen in this world because a lady asks a gentleman a question and then refuses to accept his answer. For instance, the lady Eve. What great harm could it do if I took just the tiniest bite of that apple? Or the lady named Pandora? Why would it be a calamity if I should sneak just a quick little peek into that box? Now add to the list a charming young lady named Millie. She also has a question.

[Millie]

Why can't I have the bracelet?

[Kevin]

Kevin, it belongs to the temple.

[Millie]

Oh, nonsense. It's been lying here in the jungle for at least a thousand years. Who'd miss it?

[Kevin]

Its owner, the beast goddess.

[Millie]

Oh, come on, Kevin.

[Kevin]

And you know what she does with people who steal her property? She turns them into animals.

[Larry]

Really?

[Kevin]

It's the local legend, Millie. Now you just take that little bracelet off your arm and put it back exactly where you found it. Sure, Millie. I mean it.

[Millie]

Sure, Kevin, sure.

[Narrator]

Our mystery drama, the Sign of the Beast, was written especially for the Mystery theater by Sam Dan and stars Lois Smith. It is sponsored in part by Anheuser Busch Incorporated, brewers of Budweiser. I'll be back shortly with Act 1. What is the difference between man and beast? There are those who ask, is there a difference? It wasn't very long ago that man himself was a beast. A carnivorous hunter with an insane, insatiable appetite for raw meat.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

True.

[Narrator]

Quite a bit has happened since. We've learned manners. We've invented civilization and culture. We've created a conscience, a code of morals, a system of ethics. But how deep do all these things go? Does the beast still slumber in each of us, waiting patiently, biding its time, ready at any moment to assert its mastery with fang and claw? This is going to be a very vital question for the very pretty and vivacious young lady who at this moment is riding in a helicopter. The copter is hovering over a large clearing deep in a South American jungle.

[Larry]

Here you are, Millie.

[Millie]

Thanks a million, Larry.

[Larry]

It's a short bet Kevin and Professor Jorgensen won't thank me.

[Millie]

Better lift up out of here before they make you take me back.

[Larry]

You know, Millie, I don't think I'm doing you a favor.

[Millie]

Just toss my duffel bag over the side.

[Larry]

What's more, it could cost me my job.

[Millie]

Company's coming and meeting the parade. The adorable Kevin himself.

[Larry]

Well, all ashore is going ashore. This ship sailing right now.

[Millie]

Thanks again, Larry. And if I ever leave Kevin, I'll marry you.

[Larry]

Gee, and I thought you liked me.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Now jump out fast.

[Kevin]

And furthermore.

[Millie]

And furthermore, you haven't even kissed me.

[Kevin]

Look, I'm very angry about this. Millie.

[Millie]

You could still kiss me.

[Kevin]

Kevin, you promised to stay at the base camp.

[Millie]

That was last week.

[Kevin]

But we're moving into the jungle tomorrow.

[Millie]

Kevin, we've already been through all the arguments. Category A, danger from animals. Well, I brought the 405 Anthony Carteret and I'm a better shot than you are.

[Kevin]

Now listen, Millie.

[Millie]

Category B, danger from rare, unknown, mysterious, incurable topic diseases. You have just as much chance of getting one as I do.

[Kevin]

Dr. Jorgensen will be furious.

[Millie]

You're Dr. Jorgenson is my Uncle Bert. I can handle him.

[Kevin]

It isn't a matter of handling people.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It's true. You know Millie can always handle me.

[Millie]

Uncle Bert, I love you.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I know, dear. And I love you too.

[Millie]

See, Uncle Burt gave me a kiss. He's glad to see me.

[Kevin]

Dr. Jorgensen will have to radio that idiot Larry.

[Millie]

I'm not going back.

[Kevin]

Kevin, won't you make her see reason?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I warned you about this Kevin last year when you said to me, how about an introduction to that good looking niece of yours? I told you the problems, but you.

[Millie]

Would have her and I'm worth it.

[Kevin]

Oh, Millie, it's only because I love you so much.

[Millie]

Uncle Bert, why don't we leave Achilles here to sulk in his tent while you show me around the camp?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh, and there's somebody you should know. That tall, powerful looking fellow. His name is Aara. He's our straw boss. I'mara. Whenever you want something done, you.

[Larry]

Yes, Dr. Jorgensen.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Amara, this is Kevin's wife. Her name is Millie.

[Millie]

How do you do, Amara?

[Larry]

It is an honor to meet you. Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Imara is in charge of setting up, taking down and moving the whole camp.

[Millie]

Ah. Well, I can see he does a splendid job.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh, no. The fact is he does a very bad job.

[Millie]

What? What did you say?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I said he does a poor and unsatisfactory job, Uncle Bert. Oh, it's the truth.

[Millie]

But everything looks to be so neat, so orderly.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Actually, Imara is unbelievably incompetent. He deserves to be fired.

[Millie]

I think that's unfair and heartless.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Excuse me, Millie. Imara, please go to Kevin's tent and bring Millie's 405 rifle.

[Larry]

Yes, doctor. Ate one.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Uncle Bertram, before you say another word.

[Millie]

How could you be so heartless?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You must understand Imara. His primitive superstitions, his beliefs.

[Millie]

But he's not some ignorant savage. You can tell by his speech. He's obviously educated. Must you insult him?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie, you simply cannot compliment these natives.

[Millie]

These natives? Oh, my, aren't we condescending? And why must we not compliment them? Will it spoil them as servants? Will it drive up the pay scale?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh, Millie, I. Where to begin? In Imara's religion, he is surrounded by a host of jealous, angry, implacable gods and goddesses. They do not tolerate praise for human beings.

[Millie]

That's nonsense.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

One man's nonsense is another man's devoutly held belief. You terrify Amara when you praise him. Therefore, on this expedition, never, never praise one of our natives.

[Millie]

But, Uncle Bert.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Is that understood? Millie, we're not home now.

[Larry]

Where?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

There's a charm in being a. Oh, quirky, kooky, offbeat. Just obey orders. Don't under any circumstances praise anybody. Understand?

[Millie]

Yes, Uncle Bert, I understand.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Things are bad enough. In the first place, you're a woman.

[Millie]

Well, I like that.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You need some prestige. That's why I sent him for the rifle. Hit some tin cans, break a few bottles at 300 yards, and you'll be one of the boys.

[Millie]

Uncle Bert, you actually are a male chauvinist. Who would have suspected it?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I have to pack away my instruments. Can I trust you not to get into any trouble?

[Millie]

Implicitly.

[Larry]

Very bad shot, Millie.

[Millie]

And now I'll break that bottle next to it.

[Larry]

Oh, that was terrible.

[Millie]

Not bad, if I do say so myself. And that's every bit of 250 yards. Now, you see those three cans you lined up on that rock? Watch.

[Larry]

You are a very poor shooter.

[Millie]

Millie, that's nothing. You should see me when I'm in practice. Oh, my. I didn't know we had children in the camp. Who's that youngster by the kitchen tent?

[Larry]

It is my little boy. He stays here with me till we leave. The youngest.

[Millie]

What's his name?

[Larry]

His name is Isara.

[Millie]

I. Sarah. Oh, what a lovely name.

[Larry]

No, no, it is an unpleasant name.

[Millie]

I should think you'd be proud.

[Larry]

Proud? Me, proud? Why do you say I'm proud?

[Millie]

Oh, because he's such a handsome child.

[Kevin]

No.

[Larry]

He is plain.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

He is ugly.

[Millie]

He seems so intelligent. Notice how patiently he lines up those stones and shells.

[Larry]

No, you're stupid. I swear to you, he has no sense. He disgraces his mother and me.

[Millie]

What are you saying, Amara?

[Larry]

This child is a fool. Anyone can see that. Now I must go.

[Millie]

Where?

[Larry]

I. I must go Clean the rifle. I must go.

[Millie]

What?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh.

[Millie]

What made him so upset?

[Amara]

Oh.

[Millie]

Oh, now I remember.

[Kevin]

Amira, you may serve the coffee.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I know the cuisine has left something to be desired these past few days. Millie.

[Millie]

Oh, none of this bothers me. I can live on tea and toast, fruit and vegetables.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

By tomorrow sometime we'll come to the ancient temple, the forbidden ground.

[Millie]

I have the cameras ready.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I must caution you. We were permitted to come here only because I promised the chief, who is my blood brother.

[Millie]

We do have a wild family, don't we?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

We will not defile the holy grounds now. All around you'll see scattered ornaments, bric a brac. Oh, all sorts of things. Touch nothing, Uncle Bert.

[Millie]

I hardly have to be told.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

We can photograph anything. Everything. But it all belongs to the Goddess. The Beast Goddess.

[Kevin]

It'd be dangerous to touch anything anyhow. You see, dear, the Beast Goddess is very possessive.

[Millie]

I don't know why I have to be treated like a child and indoctrinated with lessons in basic honesty. I've been on digs with you before.

[Kevin]

You take anything that belongs to the Beast Goddess and she'll transform you into a wild animal.

[Millie]

What's that, Uncle Bert? Those drums.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You get used to it. It's just the native telegraph service.

[Millie]

What are they saying?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I never learned to read them exactly. I can just get the general idea. I. I think it's news of death.

[Millie]

Death?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Yes, it's someone's death.

[Millie]

How can you tell?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Well, the basic rhythm speaks of death. And since it's a very light beat, it's probably, well, the death of a child.

[Millie]

Of a child?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Yes, I'm sure of it.

[Kevin]

Is something wrong?

[Millie]

Oh, I. I have a headache. I think I better Turn in.

[Kevin]

Amera. Let's put the scaffold here. I want to climb this wall and study the inscription.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie, darling.

[Kevin]

You feel better?

[Millie]

Yes, I suppose so. I'll just have to. To live with his headache.

[Kevin]

Come here a minute. Okay.

[Millie]

I'm Mara.

[Larry]

Yes, Millie.

[Millie]

Your little boy. I. Sarah. He's dead, isn't he?

[Larry]

Yes. How did you know?

[Millie]

I know. I'm sorry.

[Larry]

I. Thank you.

[Millie]

I mean, I. I hope you. You don't.

[Larry]

Yes, Millie.

[Millie]

I hope you don't think I'm responsible.

[Larry]

Why should I think that, Millie?

[Millie]

Because. Oh, I don't know. Yes. Yes, I do. It's because I. I praised him just a few days ago, and you seemed so upset about it.

[Larry]

I was upset?

[Millie]

Oh, yes, very much. And Dr. Jorgensen told me.

[Larry]

I know. I know what he told you. But my little boy, my. I said I died of fever the way so many children here do suddenly, with. Without warning.

[Millie]

Then you don't blame me?

[Larry]

I blame you. No, I am not a superstitious savage. We poor, ignorant natives, we play this game with Dr. Jorgensen and people like him about our gods and goddesses.

[Millie]

I felt terrible.

[Larry]

I was afraid you might.

[Millie]

You see, in our culture, we believe in praise, especially when it comes to children. We automatically say nice things about children.

[Larry]

I understand.

[Millie]

And then. And then last night, when I heard the drums, those.

[Larry]

You must not feel bad. And to prove that I tell the truth, I have a gift for you.

[Millie]

For me?

[Larry]

We have a custom. When we make someone feel bad, we must give that person a gift. And the person must accept.

[Millie]

That's such a lovely bracelet. Where did you get it?

[Larry]

Here.

[Millie]

Oh, but we're not supposed to.

[Larry]

There are thousands, thousands of pieces of ornament. Who know. Place it on your wrist. Ah. See how pretty it looks?

[E.G. Marshall]

Oh.

[Larry]

Wherever you look, thousands of beautiful things. This is the very last. Besides, it is the custom.

[Millie]

Well, if it's the custom.

[Larry]

And you must not tell Kevin or Dr. Jorgensen, because, you see, you would have to explain why I gave it.

[Millie]

I understand.

[Larry]

And it would make them uncomfortable because everything they have come to believe about superstition would be wrong.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie. Millie.

[Millie]

What is it? Kevin, bring the camera.

[Kevin]

I want to shoot these inscriptions.

[Millie]

Thank you again, Mary. And it was will be our secret. I'm coming, Kevin.

[Larry]

Yes. Go to him. Go to your husband. Arrogant, heedless, ignorant woman. You have defied my gods and killed my son. Her punishment has been decreed. It has already begun.

[Narrator]

Well, Imara is obviously a man of parts, and he's already shown us quite.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

A few of them.

[Narrator]

So far, the punishment that has just begun will be expanded and continued when we return shortly with Act 2. Is it entirely valid to suggest that the best way to get a woman to do something is to order her not to do it? There seems to be some historical basis for it. Archaeologist Kevin has ordered his wife, Millie, not to touch any of the artifacts or ornaments found in his latest discovery. And now he finds it impossible to take his eyes off her wrist.

[Millie]

Is this the section of the temple wall you want me to film? Kevin? Karen. Kevin, what are you looking at?

[Kevin]

What's that on your wrist?

[Millie]

Oh, well, it's just.

[Kevin]

Millie. Dr. Jorgensen told you. I told you, under no circumstances were you to touch anything. Well, you not only touched it, you're wearing it. Look.

[Millie]

The silly superstition.

[Kevin]

Where did you get it, Kevin?

[Millie]

I don't like that tone of voice.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Hey, what are you two quarreling about?

[Kevin]

Show him, Millie.

[Millie]

Oh, Uncle Bert.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Listen, I must ask you. Millie, where did you get it?

[Millie]

I found it.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You found it here?

[Millie]

Well, around, Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I can tell by the workmanship. It was made by an ancient priest of the temple. It has the same symbols.

[Millie]

What's all the fuss, Millie?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I thought we all understood.

[Millie]

Why can't I have the bracelet?

[Kevin]

Because it belongs to the temple.

[Millie]

Nonsense. It's been lying around the jungle for at least a thousand years. Who'd miss it?

[Kevin]

Its owner, the beast goddess.

[Millie]

Kevin, are you serious? Go ahead, tell me the rest of it. Tell me. She turns people who steal her property into animals. I can tell you that not even the natives believe that. Come on, fellas.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

We're overlooking a place Point. Millie.

[Millie]

If it were made of gold or silver or precious stones, I could understand. But it's just a twisted piece of copper.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Well, for all I know, we're being watched. If so, you can expect a poisoned arrow through your throat any second.

[Millie]

You know, I listened to the two of you.

[Kevin]

And Millie, your trouble is that you don't listen.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Let's not have an argument. I gave my word. That's all there is to it. Millie, you will take that bracelet off your wrist and put it back. Put it back exactly where you found it.

[Millie]

Sure.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I mean it, Millie.

[Millie]

Well, sure, Uncle Bert, sure.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Here. These are the symbols the Incas used for weddings.

[Kevin]

Well, could they have originated this far north in east? Dr. Jorgensen.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie, photograph this section of the wall.

[Millie]

Yes, yes. I need some more film. I'll be back in a second.

[Kevin]

Well, you don't have to go. We'll send a mirror.

[Millie]

No, no, it's all right. I I just want to stop off at the kitchen tent. I think I need a snack.

[Kevin]

We just had breakfast.

[Millie]

I know, but I'm hungry.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Are you sure you feel all right, Milly?

[Millie]

Oh, I'm fine. Just a little hungry, that's all.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie, about yesterday.

[Millie]

What about yesterday?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

The bracelet.

[Millie]

Oh, that. Forget it, Uncle Brit.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I know that you see so much just lying around. It seems silly to make a fuss over some trinket.

[Millie]

But I'm willing to forget it if you are Aymara.

[Larry]

Yes, Millie?

[Millie]

Where's the cook?

[Larry]

He will be back soon.

[Millie]

I was wondering if. If there's anything to eat.

[Larry]

What would you like?

[Millie]

Well, I. I'd like some meat.

[Larry]

I could cook a slice.

[Millie]

Oh, would you please? Aymara. And hurry.

[Larry]

Will this be enough?

[Millie]

Just throw it on the fire.

[Larry]

Yes, Millie.

[Millie]

That's good. Oh. Oh, that smells good. Be careful. Don't burn it.

[Larry]

I just put it.

[Millie]

No, no, no. You're burning it. Aymara.

[Amara]

That's good.

[Millie]

It's good right now just the way it is. I tell you, it's fine.

[Larry]

Yes, Millie. Let me get you a plate and a knife and a fork.

[Millie]

Oh, hurry.

[Larry]

Here you are, Millie.

[Millie]

Put up some more.

[Larry]

Kevin.

[Kevin]

What is it, Amara?

[Larry]

You asked me to prepare a list of supplies for the heliotropic.

[Kevin]

That's good. Let me write it down.

[Larry]

First, we need fresh meat.

[Kevin]

Okay, fresh meat. Wait a minute. Didn't Larry fly some up just a couple of days ago?

[Larry]

Yes, Kevin.

[Kevin]

We should have at least enough for the rest of the week.

[Larry]

The book says he has only enough for tonight's meal.

[Kevin]

It's impossible.

[Larry]

Would you like to see, Kevin?

[Kevin]

I take your word for it. But is someone stealing meat?

[Larry]

I cannot say, Kevin.

[Kevin]

Well, I know we eat a lot of it, but still I. Alright, put down meat and this time get plenty of it.

[Millie]

Is there any more meat, Jaimara?

[Larry]

I will go see.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Meat?

[Kevin]

What's this with meat? You haven't eaten meat since I've known you.

[Millie]

Aren't you going to finish yours, Kevin?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I've had enough.

[Millie]

Let me have your plate.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

The air out here must agree with you, Millie.

[Millie]

I'm starved, Uncle Bert. I don't understand it.

[Kevin]

You must be famished, honey. You haven't had meat in so long, you've forgotten how to eat it. Have to chew it before you swallow.

[Larry]

Excuse me. Get out some chops.

[Millie]

Those. Oh, take them back. They're too well done. I want some rare.

[Larry]

I'm sorry, this is all we have.

[Millie]

Tell him to put up some more.

[Larry]

There is no more meat.

[Kevin]

That's right. Larry's due in with supplies in the helicopter.

[Millie]

When will he be here?

[Kevin]

Well, I don't know. Sometime today.

[Millie]

Why don't I take the 405 and shoot us a deer or something we can eat.

[Kevin]

Millie, are you all right?

[Millie]

Of course I'm all right. Now, why do you ask?

[Kevin]

Well, don't snap my head on.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You'd better get some rest or you're tired.

[Millie]

I'm not tired.

[Amara]

I'm hungry.

[Kevin]

Nelly, darling, something's wrong.

[Millie]

Why?

[Kevin]

Well, because this isn't like you, that's all.

[Millie]

Kevin, I. Oh, I don't know.

[Amara]

I have such a pain in my stomach.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

What kind of pain?

[Amara]

Hunger. That's the only way I can describe it.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

But you shouldn't be hungry.

[Millie]

I can't help it. I have this terrible craving for food. Oh, no, not for food.

[Amara]

For meat.

[Millie]

For red meat.

[Amara]

Oh, Kevin. Uncle Bert, I'm frightened.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Take her to her tent, Kevin. Take her to a tent. We'll. We'll give her a Saturday.

[Amara]

Yeah. Yes, maybe that'll be best. Maybe that pain will go away.

[Kevin]

Come on. Come on, dear.

[Amara]

Come on. Kevin. Oh, Kevin. You'll wake me when Larry gets here in the helicopter with the meat.

[Kevin]

Sure? Sure.

[Amara]

Promise? Promise?

[Kevin]

Yes, dear, I. I promise.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Is she asleep, Kevin?

[Kevin]

Yes, finally. Dr. Jorgensen. What's wrong?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I don't know.

[Kevin]

I've never seen her hysterical. Are you as worried as I am?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I'm worried enough to want to get her to Rio to a hospital.

[Kevin]

Let's radio Larry to get that damn helicopter here pronto.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I just spoke to Larry. We have a problem. It seems a helicopter needs some repairs.

[Kevin]

What kind of repairs, for God's sake?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I don't know. It was technical. Larry's working on it.

[Kevin]

Larry? Larry. He's an idiot. If he hadn't brought her here.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It's our fault, yours and mine. We let her stay.

[Kevin]

What are we going to do?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

You say she's asleep. Well, all she needs is rest. Maybe when she wakes up, she'll be better.

[Millie]

Kevin.

[Kevin]

I'm here, dear. I'm here.

[Millie]

Oh, I was so sleepy.

[Kevin]

I know. I know.

[Millie]

It's dark out. What time is it?

[Kevin]

Well, it's almost midnight.

[Millie]

You let me sleep.

[Kevin]

You didn't let me. I couldn't.

[Amara]

Larry was here and he brought the meat.

[Kevin]

No, dear, the helicopter's out of order.

[Amara]

Oh, Kevin, I am so hungry.

[Kevin]

Well, I knew you'd be hungry when you woke up, so I'll make you an egg sandwich.

[Amara]

No, no, no.

[Millie]

I want some meat.

[Kevin]

But there isn't any.

[Amara]

There's Plenty of meat.

[Kevin]

Where, Millie?

[Millie]

All around you out there. There's deer. There's wild pig. Can't you smell it? No, I. Millie, can he have the 405? We'll be able to feast.

[Kevin]

You can't go out in the jungle in the middle of the night.

[Millie]

Why not?

[Kevin]

Oh, Millie.

[Amara]

Let me have the rifle, Kevin.

[Kevin]

No, Millie, not now.

[Amara]

It's my rifle.

[Kevin]

I know, I know. In the morning.

[Millie]

He can't hunt in the morning. All the animals are asleep. You can only hunt at night, darling.

[Kevin]

Now listen. Here are some pills to calm you.

[Millie]

Kevin, something's wrong with me. I don't know what. I, I, I say things I don't understand.

[Amara]

I have urges. Oh, I can't even describe.

[Millie]

Hold my hand.

[Kevin]

Yes, yes. What is it, darling? What is it?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh, my wrist.

[Amara]

My wrist. It's burning. Oh. Oh, it's on fire.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

What's the matter? Marie?

[Kevin]

Look at her wrist.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh, that's very ugly looking. Irritation. How'd you get a minute?

[Amara]

I don't remember. I don't know. Oh, Uncle Bert. I don't know anything.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I'm all right. I'm all right. Come in here. Now, Millie, you must try to be calm. Try. Try, dear. Now tell me, how did you hurt your wrist?

[Kevin]

I don't know.

[Amara]

I don't remember.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Try to think. Try to remember.

[Kevin]

You probably have an infection, some kind of bruise.

[Amara]

I don't have an infection.

[Kevin]

Infection.

[Amara]

I'm not sick. I'm hungry. Do you understand? I'm hungry.

[Larry]

You want me?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Dr. Jurgensen, I'm all. Bring the medical kit.

[Amara]

I'm hungry.

[Kevin]

The first thing we have to do is put a penicillin ointment on that bruise.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

She's feverish. Ravenous. Appetite for meat. Bruise on wrist could be anything. She could have scraped it against her. A bramble, anything or an insect.

[Kevin]

Dr. Jorgensen, we have to get her out of here now. Radio Larry. Tell him it's an emergency. We have to do something.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Lose your head.

[Kevin]

Listen, Millie.

[Amara]

Kevin, won't you get me something to eat?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Yes, yes, dear, I will.

[Larry]

I have the medicines. Doctor. Jorge.

[Amara]

Kevin, you don't love me.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I think we'd better put her to sleep. Hold your arms still, Millie dear.

[Amara]

No.

[Millie]

No.

[Amara]

You want to stab me? I'm going to bleed.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Hold her arm, Kevin.

[E.G. Marshall]

No.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I'm all. I want to ask you a question. Yes, Dr. Jorgensen, have you ever seen anything like this?

[Larry]

Yes.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Where? When?

[Larry]

Once it was a man. He had invaded these holy grounds. He had stolen a jewel from the beast goddess. He.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Yes, go on.

[Larry]

He then Became a beast. He disappeared into the jungle and he was never seen again.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Thank you, Emma. You may leave. This kind of superstition we can do without.

[Kevin]

Maybe. And don't bite my head off. Maybe there's something to it.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Something to what?

[Kevin]

To what he's saying. Oh, I know, I know. Primitive superstition. But look at us. You and me. Between us, we carry a considerable supply of the knowledge of the civilized world. Between us, we have degrees in medicine, anthropology, chemistry, sociology. Can we explain it?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Are you saying the legend is true? That Millie has offended the beast goddess and is being punished?

[Kevin]

I don't know what I'm saying. But look at her. Look how troubled, how agitated she is. She's flushed, breathing rapidly. She could burst through that sedative any minute.

[Millie]

Kevin, I'm so hungry.

[Kevin]

Try to rest, darling.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I'm going to get on the radio.

[Kevin]

The helicopter is out of order.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Past all that, I'm going to speak with the hospital in Rio. I'll describe her symptoms. They'll arrange together.

[Millie]

My wrist.

[Amara]

Oh. Oh, my wrist. It's burning. Cold.

[Kevin]

Look at her wrist.

[Amara]

Look at her wrist.

[Kevin]

Something's on it. It's a design. It's the shape of that bracelet.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Kevin, it's your imagination lizard.

[Amara]

Look.

[Kevin]

Do you see that symbol? It's on every ornament worn by the goddess. The design decorates her dress.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Just a raw, ugly scar with some very wavy lines.

[Kevin]

But it's her sign. The sign of the beast Goddess. The sign of the beast.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It could be a coincidence. Do you believe that? I, I, I.

[Kevin]

Tell me, do you believe it?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Kevin, I don't know what to believe.

[Narrator]

Well, you've got a pretty good handful of advanced college degrees in that tent. Most of them in the sciences. And it's surprising how quickly knowledge abdicates in the face of the unknown terrors of the jungle. Can science be just a veneer also? I'll return shortly with Act 3.

[Millie]

This is WBBM Chicago.

[Narrator]

Hamlet said that there were more things under heaven and earth than were dreamed of in philosophy. Hamlet should be with us in a tent deep in a South American jungle, amidst the ruins of an ancient temple. Because there are more things than any of us can dream of.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Is she still asleep?

[Kevin]

I think so.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

She shouldn't be left alone.

[Kevin]

I'll go back in the tent in a second. Dr. Jorgensen, I just had to find out, were you able to radio the hospital?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Kevin, it's 2:00 in the morning.

[Kevin]

What's the difference?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

My contact there, the chief of medicine, is due at 7.

[Kevin]

Can't he be reached?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Kevin? He's returning from vacation. He's on the road. It's only five hours. Don't worry.

[Kevin]

Poor Millie. You know, she really didn't mean any harm. And there are scads of this stuff lying around.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I know.

[Kevin]

It's a pretty little thing. Who'd miss it? She didn't think it was stealing.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Kevin, don't talk as if.

[Kevin]

As if what?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

As if you believe this is the revenge of the Beast Goddess.

[Kevin]

Can you rule it out? Kevin, if they can't send a copter for. I'll carry her out of here on my back. Those damn drums. What are they saying?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Is it important?

[Kevin]

Getting so choppy. What are the drums saying? Oh, nothing that isn't so, Dr. Jorgensen.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Why do you make an issue out of it?

[Kevin]

Why do you refuse to tell me? Now you can read those drums the way I can read a telegram. Now, what are you trying to keep from me?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It's just that I thought the agitated state you're in. Right.

[Kevin]

Well, don't make it worse. What are those drums saying?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Well, it has to do with revenge. Revenge? What was that?

[Kevin]

Those are rifle shots.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Well, who'd be firing at this hour?

[Kevin]

Come on. Millie. Millie. She's gone.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

She's got a rifle.

[Kevin]

Amira, wake everybody up. Rouse the camp. We have to find Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie.

[Kevin]

Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Millie. Careful now. Watch every footstep.

[Kevin]

It's a good thing there's a moon. Millie, where are you? Those shots came from just about here.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Why did she go out?

[Kevin]

Oh, let's quit pretending. You know why she went out to hunt at night.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Why?

[Kevin]

Because she's hungry. Karen, when are we going to face it?

[Amara]

Admit it.

[Kevin]

Millie. Millie, can't you hear us?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Look.

[Kevin]

Where?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Oh. Oh, no. No, no. She can't be dead. She seems to be breathing. There's blood all over her.

[Kevin]

But it isn't her blood. She must have shot this deer. Millie. Millie, are you all right?

[Millie]

I feel so nice.

[Kevin]

Have you reached the doctor yet?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Yes, Kevin. They're sending a copter. It'll be here late this afternoon or tomorrow morning.

[Kevin]

Oh, that's great.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

They're doing the best they can.

[Kevin]

Oh, sure.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I'll be reasonable.

[Kevin]

Reasonable, huh? My wife is being destroyed before my eyes.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It seems there is. Or they think that this might be a very unusual disease.

[Kevin]

Oh, come on.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It's an infection. She might have picked it up from the bracelet.

[Kevin]

What are you talking about?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It could have scratched her when she put it on. And, well, it's been lying here for hundreds of years. All kinds of parasites. Microorganisms. Anyhow, it seems this disease creates enormous, enormous cravings for protein.

[Kevin]

And what does your man suggest?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Massive doses of penicillin.

[Kevin]

Do we have enough?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I. I hope so.

[Kevin]

I'm on.

[Larry]

Yes.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Dr. Jorgensen, bring me the medical chest.

[Millie]

Kevin. Kevin, she's awake.

[Kevin]

I'm coming, dear.

[Millie]

Kevin, no.

[Kevin]

Millie. Now, lie still. Don't get up.

[Millie]

Oh, I feel so comfy.

[Kevin]

How's your wrist?

[Millie]

My wrist? Oh, it's okay. It only hurts when I feel hungry.

[Kevin]

And you're not hungry now?

[Millie]

No. No. You know, I had such a crazy dream. I better not tell you.

[Kevin]

You've got to. You've aroused my curiosity.

[Millie]

You won't believe it.

[Kevin]

You try me.

[Millie]

Don't laugh. Promise?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I promise.

[Millie]

Well, I dreamed I went out into the jungle alone at night. There's a picture for you. Imagine me alone in the jungle at night. Anyway, I dreamed I shot this. I think it was an antelope. Something like that.

[Kevin]

Yes.

[Millie]

And I was so hungry, I ate it right there.

[Kevin]

What a dream.

[Millie]

You know, I felt so full just before. But just talking about food seems to give me an appetite.

[Kevin]

How about some tea and toast?

[Millie]

Tea and toast.

[Kevin]

Ooh.

[Millie]

How about a nice chop or steak? Rare. Very rare.

[Kevin]

Well, Larry's been unable to fly up the supply.

[Millie]

Doesn't matter. I can go out and shoot.

[Kevin]

Later, Millie. Later. You're not hungry now, are you?

[Millie]

Well, not very. But in a little while.

[Kevin]

Okay, then. Just a little while. Promised?

[Millie]

Okay, I promise.

[Kevin]

Where have you been, Doctor? I've been waiting in the tent.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Don't leave her alone again. Kevin.

[Kevin]

Where's that penicillin?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

That's just the problem.

[Kevin]

What problem? Look, we just can't have any more problems.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

We do. The penicillin is gone.

[Kevin]

That's impossible.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

All the bottles of penicillin solution, all the tablets, gone.

[Kevin]

But how?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I don't know.

[Kevin]

Are any other supplies missing?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

No. Everything's here. Calvin, go to it. Quickly.

[Kevin]

The penicillin.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Amara brought me the chest. The drug was missing.

[Kevin]

We have spares in the supply depot.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

I looked gone from there, too.

[Amara]

Kevin. Kevin. Kevin, I'm hungry. Oh, Kevin, you don't know. My stomach hurts and my wrist is on fire.

[Kevin]

Millie, everything will be all right. Sure?

[Amara]

Yes. Just let me take the 405 and shoot something.

[Kevin]

Millie, no.

[Amara]

Kevin. I'm going.

[Kevin]

Millie, try to get some rest.

[Amara]

I don't need rest. I need food. I need meat.

[Kevin]

Please, Millie, why? Back rest.

[Amara]

Take your hands off me.

[Kevin]

Millie.

[Amara]

Let go of me.

[Kevin]

Somebody give me a hand.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Relax. Fire. Down. I'm all right.

[Larry]

Get Some rope.

[Amara]

Let go of me. Let go.

[Kevin]

Where's that damn helicopter?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

He could never find us at night. He'll have to wait till morning.

[Kevin]

I don't know if she can wait until morning. Listen, we don't have medicine. Let's try the other thing.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

What other thing?

[Kevin]

The legend. Maybe we can placate the Goddess. Kevin, is there anything else we can do now? There's something happening here. The penicillin is gone. How do you account for it?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

He may have forgotten to pack it.

[Kevin]

Nonsense. Last night you said the drums were talking about revenge. Revenge for who? For what? And what are they saying? Tonight?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

It's revenge.

[Amara]

Come in here.

[Kevin]

I'm coming. I'm coming.

[Amara]

Kevin. I want a 405. Untie me.

[Kevin]

No. Millie. Millie. What did you do with it?

[Amara]

Untie me.

[Kevin]

What did you do with it? The bracelet. You didn't put it back, did you?

[Amara]

I'm hungry. I'll die, Kevin. I'll die.

[Kevin]

I won't tell you if you just tell me. Where did you put the bracelet? I'll get you some meat.

[Amara]

Yes. Oh, Kevin. Yes.

[Kevin]

The bracelet. The bracelet.

[Amara]

This is my makeup kit. Oh, no. Untie me. Let me hunt.

[Kevin]

Where did you find the bracelet?

[Amara]

You promised to untie me.

[Kevin]

Where did you find the bracelet?

[Amara]

I must go hunting. Oh, Kevin.

[Kevin]

Where did you find the bracelet? Millie?

[Amara]

I didn't find it.

[Kevin]

Tell me the truth, or else I'll never untie.

[Amara]

I didn't find it.

[Kevin]

I'll leave you here to starve.

[Amara]

Amara.

[Kevin]

What about Amara?

[Amara]

I promised him I wouldn't tell.

[Kevin]

What about Amara?

[Amara]

He. He gave me the bracelet. Oh, Kevin. Untie me, please. Untie me.

[Kevin]

Amira. You will tell us where you hid that penicillin or I'll blow your brains out.

[Larry]

You may kill me.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

That's not the way.

[Kevin]

Let me beat it out of him.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

For the past two nights, Amara, the. The drums have talked of revenge. Whose revenge?

[Larry]

Mine.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Upon whom?

[Larry]

Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

For what reason?

[Larry]

She killed my only son.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

How?

[Larry]

She made the gods jealous. She spoke of his beauty, his intelligence, his skills. The gods were angry, of course.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

But she didn't know any better.

[Larry]

It made no difference to my son. He died.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

And your revenge?

[Larry]

I gave her a bracelet. I tricked her. I fooled her. I made her take it.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Where did you find the bracelet? So that we may return it with a suitable prayer and beg forgiveness from the Goddess?

[Larry]

I will not say.

[Kevin]

Stand aside, Doctor. It's my turn.

[Larry]

You may kill me.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

No. He won't kill you.

[Kevin]

Who says I won't kill him?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Be quiet. No one will Kill you? But I am a blood brother to your chief. I will tell him that you committed a sacrilege. I will tell him that you stole a bracelet from the goddess for an evil purpose. Now you may go, Amara.

[Kevin]

What do you mean, he may go?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

He'll be disgraced for life. His wife, his parents, his brothers and sisters, all will be driven from the village into the jungle. No one will speak to him. Why do you stay here, Amara? We have no further use for you. Oh. I believe we owe you a month's wages here. Plus two weeks notice.

[Larry]

The bracelet. It was taken. I took it from the arm of the statue of the goddess.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Now repeat this, Millie.

[Millie]

Why do I have to go through this mumbo jumbo?

[Kevin]

Oh, just do it, Millie.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Now place the bracelet on the wrist of the statue.

[Millie]

Ugly old girl, isn't she?

[Kevin]

Millie?

[Millie]

Okay. Okay.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Now say, forgive my sin.

[Millie]

What sin? Okay, Forgive my sin. What else?

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

That's all that says it.

[Millie]

Well, that's a relief. I must have been a trial to you boys. What happened to me anyhow? The way you was shooting penicillin into me.

[Kevin]

How are you now, darling?

[Millie]

Okay, I guess. But I'm so hungry.

[Kevin]

Hungry?

[Millie]

Starved for.

[Kevin]

For what? Meat.

[Millie]

Meat? Since when did I ever eat meat? Just point me at some tea and toast and salad and fruit. I might even have an egg.

[Narrator]

It's always good not to put all your eggs in one basket. Always have another course of action in reserve. What cured Millie? The atonement before the goddess. And the return of the bracelet. Or the penicillin.

[Dr. Bertram Jorgensen]

Or both.

[Narrator]

I'll be back shortly. The sign of the beast. It can appear anywhere, anytime and in anyone. And the trouble is, in our world today, it appears much too often. Our cast included Lois Smith, Paul mcgrath, Tom Keena, and Dan ako.

[E.G. Marshall]

There's more from the CBS radio mystery theater, the horror, and all of the other relic radio shows at the website relicradio.com While you're there, you can donate and help support this and all of that. Click on one of those donate buttons or visit donate. Relicradio.com We've got some downloadable sets for certain donation amounts, though any amount is always appreciated and helpful. Thanks as always to those who have helped out. Thanks for joining me this week. Be back tomorrow with strange tales next Saturday with our next episode of the horror.