The Relic Radio Show: Box 13 and The Six Shooter Release Date: October 22, 2024

Overview The Relic Radio Show delves into the captivating narratives of Box 13 and The Six Shooter, two classic old-time radio dramas that embody the rich storytelling of radio’s golden age. This episode transports listeners back to intricate tales of mystery, deception, and Western justice, showcasing stellar performances and compelling plots.

Section 1: Box 13 – "Round Robin"

Introduction to Box 13 The episode begins with Dan Holiday, portrayed by Alan Ladd, introducing himself as a character entrenched in the enigmatic operations of Box 13. Holiday is tasked with retrieving a $500 reward by infiltrating the Morris Hotel under the alias John Johnson. His mission is cloaked in secrecy, urging him to "register at the Morris Hotel as John Johnson" and "just follow instructions" without asking questions ([01:50] Dan Holiday).

The Morris Hotel Encounter Holiday’s journey unfolds as he navigates the Morris Hotel’s reception, where suspicion arises about his phony identity. His colleague, Mr. Holiday, expresses doubt about the name "John Johnson," stating, "the name is a phony" ([03:03] Mr. Holiday). Despite the skepticism, Holiday secures a reservation and waits, only to receive a cryptic message instructing him to collect a package from room 502.

Upon arriving, Holiday confronts Mrs. Therese Clements, the hotel receptionist, who initially appears hostile. A tense exchange ensues, highlighting the underlying tension and deceit:

• Mrs. Clements: "You're very sure of yourself, aren't you?" ([05:09])
• Dan Holiday: "I may as well go." ([05:16])

Unraveling the Blackmail Scheme Holiday uncovers that the package contains a diamond necklace intended as a blackmail payment. Mrs. Clements reveals her dire situation, admitting, "The necklace was blackmail payment" and "I have no money of my own" ([07:09] Mrs. Clements). The plot thickens as Holiday deduces that the blackmailer intends to exploit him, leading to a strategic counter-move where he mails a fake necklace to General Delivery, box 18, to bait the blackmailer.

In his narration, Holiday explains his tactical approach:

"I walked out of the Morris Hotel with a fake package tucked under my arm... So I did what the notes said, went to the fifth floor and knocked on the door of room 502." ([03:14])

Confrontation with Mr. Barrett Holiday’s investigation leads him to Mr. Barrett, the head of a private detective agency. Their confrontation reveals Barrett’s reluctance to disclose his client’s identity:

• Mr. Barrett: "Your part in this business is finished." ([17:10] Dan Holiday)
• Dan Holiday: "I think you know." ([17:22])

Holiday pressures Barrett, asserting his determination to uncover the truth, which culminates in a standoff where Holiday threatens, "Now we’ll see who puts his dirty little neck into our trap." ([08:30] Dan Holiday)

Resolving the Mystery The climax unfolds as Holiday connects the dots between Mrs. Clements’ gambling debts and the fabricated blackmail scheme. He confronts Charles Clements, uncovering the truth behind the deceit:

"The business of getting me to pick up the necklace, that was phony." ([26:07] Dan Holiday)

Holiday orchestrates a resolution where Mrs. Clements admits to selling the necklace to cover her debts, thereby dismantling the blackmail plot. The episode concludes with Holiday reflecting on the intricate "Round Robin" of deception, ultimately restoring peace and order.

Section 2: The Six Shooter – "Revenge at Harness Creek"

Introduction to The Six Shooter Transitioning to the Western narrative, The Six Shooter introduces Britt Poncet, a Texas plainsman portrayed by James Stewart. The story centers around vengeance and justice in the rugged terrains of Harness Creek.

The Tragic Event Early in the morning, Susie recounts witnessing the aftermath of a deadly encounter at Fawcett's Gambling Hall:

• Susie: "I saw a little crowd in front of Fawcett's Gambling Hall... Cash Harcourt came outside. His jaw was set and his hat scraped, pulled down tight." ([30:30] Susie)

Sheriff Cash Harcourt discovers that his brother, Lex Harcourt, has been killed by Adam Roby, igniting a relentless pursuit for retribution.

Pursuit in the Wilderness Harcourt’s determination leads him into the wilderness to track down Roby. Alongside Susie, who becomes an unexpected ally, the sheriff navigates treacherous trails and confronts moral dilemmas. A pivotal moment occurs when Harcourt faces Roby in a tense standoff:

• Susie: "Man ought to be afraid to kill another man." ([54:02] Susie)
• Dan Holiday (as The Six Shooter): "Lex is dead and Roby shot him." ([54:18] Dan Holiday)

Climactic Showdown The narrative crescendos with a confrontation where Susie intervenes, preventing Harcourt from exacting violent revenge. Her moral compass and plea for justice over vengeance highlight the theme of righteousness over retribution:

Susie: "You ought to be. Man ought to be afraid to kill another man." ([53:32] Susie)

Harcourt grapples with his emotions as Susie’s words resonate, leading to a resolution that underscores the importance of due process and the rule of law.

Conclusion of The Six Shooter The episode concludes with Harcourt and Susie ensuring that Roby is handed over to the authorities, reflecting on the complexities of justice and the personal toll of vengeance:

Susie: "He wants you to promise that you'll turn him over to the District Marshal, Standish Falls." ([43:46] Mrs. Clements)

Key Themes and Insights

1. Deception and Truth: Both narratives explore the interplay between deceit and the quest for truth. In Box 13, Holiday unravels a web of blackmail and false identities, while in The Six Shooter, Harcourt confronts the truth behind his brother’s death.

2. Moral Dilemmas: The characters face ethical challenges, questioning the extent to which one should go to achieve justice. Susie’s intervention in Harcourt’s quest for revenge highlights the moral boundaries in the pursuit of justice.

3. Justice vs. Vengeance: The stories juxtapose the legal pursuit of justice against personal vendettas. Holiday’s methodical unraveling of the blackmail scheme contrasts with Harcourt’s initial inclination towards retribution, ultimately advocating for lawful justice.

4. Character Complexity: The protagonists are portrayed with depth, showcasing their internal struggles and the external pressures they face. Holiday’s strategic mind and Harcourt’s sense of duty embody the quintessential heroes of radio dramas.

Notable Quotes

• Dan Holiday: "Do you have any idea who's blackmailing?" ([07:26] Dan Holiday)
• Mrs. Clements: "I was afraid." ([25:15] Mrs. Clements)
• Susie: "Man ought to be afraid to kill another man." ([54:02] Susie)
• Dan Holiday: "I think you know." ([17:22] Dan Holiday)
• Mrs. Clements: "Lex was the only person on the face of this earth that Cash cared about." ([40:25] Mrs. Clements)

Conclusion This episode of The Relic Radio Show masterfully intertwines two compelling narratives that capture the essence of old-time radio dramas. Through intricate plots, memorable characters, and profound themes, listeners are immersed in tales that resonate with timeless questions of morality, justice, and the human condition. Whether navigating the deceptive corridors of Box 13 or the rugged trails of Harness Creek, The Relic Radio Show delivers a rich auditory experience that honors the legacy of radio’s golden age.