Screen Director’s Playhouse and Escape

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Relic Radio Show – "Screen Director’s Playhouse and Escape"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The Relic Radio Show (Old Time Radio)
• Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
• Description: Unearthing audio artifacts from radio's golden age. Relic Radio features a variety of old-time radio genres, including horror, science fiction, comedy, adventure, and more.
• Episode: Screen Director’s Playhouse and Escape
• Release Date: July 1, 2025

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Introduction

In this engaging episode of The Relic Radio Show, hosted by RelicRadio.com, listeners are transported back to the golden age of radio drama. The episode features two captivating stories: "Prince of Foxes" from the Screen Director's Playhouse series and "Escape and the Second Shot" from the Escape series. Both narratives are masterfully adapted for radio, showcasing stellar performances and immersive storytelling that capture the essence of their original formats.

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Part 1: Screen Director’s Playhouse – "Prince of Foxes"

Overview: "Prince of Foxes" is an adaptation of the historical novel by Samuel Shellabarger, set in Italy during the tumultuous year 1500. The story revolves around Andrea Orsini, portrayed by Douglas Fairbanks, who navigates the treacherous political landscape dominated by the formidable Cesar Borgia.

Key Characters:

• Andrea Orsini (Douglas Fairbanks): A peasant artist turned noble, striving to defend his city and his honor.
• Cesar Borgia (Announcer's voice): The ruthless and ambitious leader bent on conquering Italy.
• Camilla Baglione (Joyce McKenzie): The noblewoman caught between the conflicting ambitions of Orsini and Borgia.
• Mario Belli (Supporting Actor): An assassin initially loyal to Borgia but whose allegiance shifts as the plot unfolds.

Plot Highlights:

• Strategic Maneuvers (00:58 – 04:15): Cesar Borgia outlines his military strategy to Andrea Orsini, demanding a formidable offer—either 10,000 troops or one man to infiltrate and conquer the walled city of Citta del Monte. Orsini, embodying cunning and resilience, opts to take on the mission single-handedly, earning the title "Prince of Foxes."

• Art and Deceit (03:24 – 07:02): Orsini uses his artistic talents as a facade to charm and manipulate key figures, including Camilla Baglione. His dual role as an artist and a soldier creates a complex dynamic, especially as he navigates his growing feelings for Camilla and his duty to his mission.

  • Notable Quote (05:10) – Orsini: “And what would this key be, Lord Borgia? A woman, perhaps?”

  • Notable Quote (07:21) – Camilla Baglione: “Oh, you have greatness of soul, sir. I will hang it in a place of honor. In my own bedroom.”

• Assassination and Betrayal (08:37 – 12:00): The tension escalates as Mario Belli attempts to assassinate Orsini but ultimately decides to shift his loyalty. This act of betrayal highlights the precarious nature of alliances within the power-hungry environment orchestrated by Borgia.

• Defensive Strategies (16:00 – 20:19): As Citta del Monte prepares for Borgia’s impending attack, Orsini devises defensive strategies to protect the city. The collaboration between Orsini and Colonel Perrault underscores themes of honor, sacrifice, and the quest for peace amidst relentless warfare.

  • Notable Quote (19:12) – Orsini: “I don't have your wisdom, my lord. I believe that I was born and that I must die. And between the two extremes lies a devil of a lot of living.”

• Climactic Battle and Victory (30:54 – 56:10): A pivotal battle ensues where Orsini's tactical brilliance leads to the defeat of Borgia’s forces. The city's liberation is a testament to Orsini's unyielding spirit and the collective resilience of its people.

  • Notable Quote (34:00) – Colonel Perrault: “And you, Camilla, you have it? There are men, there are battles. Always a hatred, a fighting in our hearts.”

Conclusion of "Prince of Foxes": The story culminates with Orsini and Camilla emerging as pivotal figures in restoring peace to Citta del Monte. Their bond symbolizes hope and the possibility of reconciliation after enduring hardship and betrayal.

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Part 2: Escape – "The Second Shot"

Overview: "The Second Shot" is a gripping narrative inspired by a classic tale from Alexander Dumas, focusing on themes of honor, revenge, and personal growth. The story centers on Lieutenant Daumier, portrayed by a guest actor, whose reckless pursuit of honor through dueling threatens his life and the lives of those he cares about.

Key Characters:

• Lieutenant Daumier (Guest Actor): A hot-headed officer obsessed with defending his honor through duels.
• Major Cole (Narrator's voice): A superior officer attempting to curb Daumier's destructive behavior.
• Mario Belli (Recurring Character): Introduces himself as a mentor figure striving to guide Daumier.
• Marianne (Supporting Character): Major Cole’s niece, caught in the crossfire of Daumier’s impulsive actions.
• Colonel Perrault (Narrator): Represents authority and attempts to mediate the conflict.

Plot Highlights:

• Recurring Duels and Consequences (61:35 – 68:01): Lieutenant Daumier's pattern of dueling and killing his peers is introduced, highlighting his severe mental strain and disregard for the lives around him.

  • Notable Quote (65:52) – Major Cole: “Do you understand? But, sir, if you persist in this career of mayhem, if you challenge another man of this regiment, I will convene a court of inquiry.”

• Personal Conflicts and Love Triangle (70:05 – 78:52): The complex relationships between Daumier, Colonel Perrault, and Marianne unfold. Daumier's realization of his misplaced priorities and the emotional turmoil he experiences add depth to his character arc.

  • Notable Quote (75:34) – Camilla Baglione: “Wait.”

  • Notable Quote (77:01) – Lieutenant Daumier: “Shall I remind you of the circumstances? Our children's words, our children's actions.”

• The Fateful Duel (82:05 – 86:30): The tension reaches its peak as Daumier challenges Colonel Perrault to a duel. The dramatic climax of the empty pistols serves as a metaphor for Daumier's internal conflicts and the futility of his obsession with honor.

  • Notable Quote (85:32) – Major Cole: “Lieutenant Daumier, if all you know of honor is what you have learned on the dueling field, then I fear your education has been arrested at a very primitive state.”

• Resolution and Redemption (86:30 – 89:14): The duel ends without bloodshed, prompting Daumier to confront his flaws. The narrative emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the rejection of unnecessary violence in the pursuit of honor.

  • Notable Quote (87:12) – Chorus: “I love you, Marianne.”

Conclusion of "The Second Shot": Lieutenant Daumier's journey from a prideful, reckless officer to a man who recognizes the emptiness of his actions encapsulates the moral of the story. The resolution underscores themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and the true meaning of honor beyond superficial dueling.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Douglas Fairbanks as Orsini (05:10):

   "And what would this key be, Lord Borgia? A woman, perhaps?"

2. Camilla Baglione (07:21):

   "Oh, you have greatness of soul, sir. I will hang it in a place of honor. In my own bedroom."

3. Colonel Perrault (19:12):

   “And you, Camilla, you have it? There are men, there are battles. Always a hatred, a fighting in our hearts.”

4. Lieutenant Daumier (65:12):

   “He insulted me, sir.”

5. Major Cole (65:52):

   “Lieutenant Daumier, if all you know of honor is what you have learned on the dueling field, then I fear your education has been arrested at a very primitive state.”

6. Camilla Baglione (75:34):

   "Wait."

7. Douglas Fairbanks as Orsini (85:32):

   “Lieutenant Daumier, if all you know of honor is what you have learned on the dueling field, then I fear your education has been arrested at a very primitive state.”

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Conclusion

This episode of The Relic Radio Show masterfully blends two compelling stories that explore deep-seated themes of power, honor, betrayal, and redemption. "Prince of Foxes" offers a historical adventure rich with political intrigue and personal valor, while "The Second Shot" delves into the psychological turmoil of a man grappling with his own demons and the consequences of his actions. Through stellar voice acting, immersive soundscapes, and intricate storytelling, Relic Radio ensures that both dramas captivate and resonate with audiences, preserving the timeless appeal of old-time radio entertainment.

For those who haven’t yet indulged in these classic dramas, this episode serves as a perfect gateway to the enthralling world of golden-age radio storytelling. Dive into the intricate plots, memorable characters, and poignant narratives that continue to stand the test of time.

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Upcoming Episodes:

• "Ivy" – Featuring Joan Fontaine, directed by the late Sam Wood.
• "Duffy's Tavern" – The Friday night feature of the All Star Festival.

Support and More: Visit relicradio.com for more old-time radio shows, the Shoutcast stream, and options to support the show through donations.

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Thank you for tuning into The Relic Radio Show. Join us next week as we continue to explore the fascinating world of old-time radio dramas.

Transcript

[Host]

This is the Relic Radio Show. Old time Radio entertainment still standing the test of time from relicradio.com welcome back to the Relic Radio Show Radio drama every Tuesday@ Relic Radio.com our first story comes from the Screen Director's Playhouse. This week we'll hear Prince of Foxes from January 4, 1951. After that, it's Escape and the Second Shot. That story aired March 25, 1954.

[Announcer]

Screen directors Playhouse stars Douglas Fairbanks, Joyce McKenzie production Prince of Foxes Director Henry King.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Foreign.

[Announcer]

This is the Screen Director's Playhouse, the Thursday night feature on NBC's All Star Festival of comedy, Music, mystery and drama. Brought to you by RCA Victor, world leader in radio, first in recorded music, first in television, and the makers of Amazon for fast relief from the pain of headache, neuritis and neuralgia. Tonight, the screen Director's playhouse is pleased to present the story of a stirring history. Here now for the first time on the air, is our adaptation of Prince of Foxes, starring Douglas Fairbanks as orsini, with Joyce McKenzie as Camila. Italy, 1500. Not a single state, but many states crammed into the Mediterranean boot. Italy, 1500. Thrust, howling into a state of perpetual warfare. And over the bloodiest of battles floats the banner of the bull, the ensign of Cesar Borgia. Cesar Borgia, whose mailed fists reach out from the court of Rome and crush what lies before them.

[Cesar Borgia]

Maps, gentlemen. I presume you read maps. My lord Borgia jests. As captain in your lordship's service, I.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Have demonstrated many times.

[Cesar Borgia]

Yes, yes, my dear Donna Stavon. It was a rhetorical question. You see, your friend Arsini smiles.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I smile only in delight at viewing a map of Italy. A soldier finds it fascinating.

[Cesar Borgia]

Good, good. Now tell me, don Esteban, which is of greater service to me, your sword or the lord Orsini's words? Your lordship knows that in battle the.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Sword cuts the mouth. My lord, Don Esteban must take care that his sword is sharp enough for such cutting.

[Cesar Borgia]

Enough, enough. Look. My dagger. And the dagger on the map. What do you see, Don Esteban? The dagger thrust through our city of Rome. And you, Arsenio?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Would your lordship mind if I spoke not as a soldier, but as a poor painter of portraits?

[Announcer]

Speak.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I see a knife in the hands of Rome and throughout the waste of Italy, I see a map of many colors. As an artist, my lord Borgia, I would find much more beauty if there were only a single color. And that a symbol of Borgia's rule. Your daggermore.

[Cesar Borgia]

He'll sense its sharpness. Well, now, look here. The road to conquest The Flaminian Road. In the spring, my troops will take this path to secure the Italian marches. We take Camerino. And on and on. But here. Here is the obstacle.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Citta del Monte.

[Cesar Borgia]

An eagle's nest perched atop a mountain. Straddling the Flaminian Road. Well, Don Estaban, what do we do about it? Give me 10,000 troops or one man.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

One man. To take a walled city.

[Cesar Borgia]

And who shall he be? Who but a man as quick at deceit as a fox. A veritable prince of foxes. He must charm as a snake charms a bird. Yet he must make no friends except those who can be put to use. And for the same reason, although he makes use of love, he must not love. Such a man must Take Cheetah del Monte for me? And who is he.

[Announcer]

Now?

[Cesar Borgia]

You may go, Donna Stephan. Orsini. Remain.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I commend your choice, my lord.

[Cesar Borgia]

But. Your Excellence, consider that you question me.

[Mario Belli]

No, sire.

[Cesar Borgia]

Let go.

[Mario Belli]

My lord Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your captain is annoyed, sir.

[Cesar Borgia]

Do not laugh. Yet, Orsini, should you lose a single step forward. Donna Staban is close behind. Had enough of this? The key to Citta del Monte shall be presented to you in due time. Use it well and the city is ours.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And what would this key be, Lord Borgia? A woman, perhaps?

[Cesar Borgia]

Perhaps. Or a knife.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

They're the same.

[Cesar Borgia]

And if a life must be taken to secure the city?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

So long as it isn't mine.

[Cesar Borgia]

And if it were? I'd merely take back what I've given you. My lord Orsini doesn't forget that he entered Rome as a peasant.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

As an artist, my lord.

[Cesar Borgia]

A peasant artist, then.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And now you bear title earned in your service. And lord or peasant, my greatest pleasure is to earn further rewards. In your service, of course. Flatterer. What are my words of love rewarded with laughter?

[Camilla Baglione]

Your words spring too easily, Lord Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And why should they not? Fair Angela. Since your father deals in rare works of art, you are a fitting daughter. Come here, my dove.

[Camilla Baglione]

One kiss, Just one. Then I.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And when your father arrives, my love, you'll admire my painting. Present my price.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Andrea Orsini. You're a thief.

[Announcer]

A scoundrel who preys on poor dealers of art. Please leave my daughter alone. Well, what have you brought me this time?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A gem, Master Pavia. A true miracle of paint and canvas. A bargain beyond counting. At a hundred ducats.

[Camilla Baglione]

Father, you must buy it.

[Cesar Borgia]

Oh, be quiet. I'll risk 50 ducats.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Farewell, my friend.

[Cesar Borgia]

60 then. No more.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lowest price is a hundred ducats.

[Camilla Baglione]

For so Rare.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

A painting for you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Oh, see, I'm a poor man. I.

[Camilla Baglione]

Master Pavia, do I hear you bargain like a fish? Wife.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Madamia. What an honor.

[Cesar Borgia]

You Grace my humble shop.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

An honor indeed. But I regret your presence, madam. Whatever be your name? Indeed. How can one praise beauty in a painting when you stand beside her?

[Camilla Baglione]

You make a swift acquaintance, my lord. Much too swift to my liking.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Angela.

[Cesar Borgia]

Daughter.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Forgive her, Madame. Ami, you, touch of indigestion, perhaps.

[Camilla Baglione]

My lord, I find this painting quite pleasing. Would you sell it to me?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

If your highness would honor me. Accept it as your just tribute.

[Camilla Baglione]

Oh, you have greatness of soul, sir. I will hang it in a place of honor. In my own bedroom.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A most fitting place.

[Camilla Baglione]

Where it will always recall your generosity.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

To me greatest pleasure.

[Camilla Baglione]

And to my good husband.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The devil take him.

[Camilla Baglione]

You spoke, my lord?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I merely commented on the good fortune of your husband.

[Camilla Baglione]

Thank you, Master Pavia. Isn't it about time you presented this gentleman?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Oh, and Il Magnifico Andrea Orsini, captain.

[Cesar Borgia]

Of his lordship, Cesar Borgia. I have the honor to present Camilla Baglione, Wife to his excellence, Mark Antonio Verano.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lady Camilla. I leave you now with my painting and my regret.

[Camilla Baglione]

That I have your painting?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

That you have a husband or Sadie. Huh? Oh, it's you. Angela. Ha ha. My beauty, my life. Your window frames your loveliness, as no artist could.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

You're a hateful, deceitful, lying.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Grab a mum. I believe you're right. My meaning behind you. Shy or ceiling?

[Cesar Borgia]

No.

[Narrator]

Assassin.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Assassin, is it now? Please, now, master Murderer. I have the knife. Oh, you devil.

[Mario Belli]

No.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Don't be a fool. A fool to kill you.

[Narrator]

You never know why I attacked you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Then talk. If your magnifico will release me. Speak up, or by heaven, I was.

[Mario Belli]

Paid to slay you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

By whom?

[Mario Belli]

Darnesta Banma Ramirez.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Darnest.

[Narrator]

Of course.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Constini.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Are you hurt?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Not a bit.

[Mario Belli]

But run, my love.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Hide, my lovely. He says he was sent to murder you. Now, my fine murderer, let me look at you. A fit face for an assassin.

[Mario Belli]

A face I can't change.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Nor would I want it changed. Beautiful. A face worth the painting. A model of Judas.

[Mario Belli]

I'm a poor man of business.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your name?

[Mario Belli]

Mario Belli.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Well, Belli, you're a poor specimen. But I'll be dashed if there isn't a fine joke in you.

[Mario Belli]

Ah, there's jokes enough for the one who holds a knife.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You know, it might amuse me to become the master of a man who hired to kill me. Ah, what's the game that you accept my employment?

[Mario Belli]

Ah, that depends. For how much?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Listen to the rogue. Speak your mind. Shall it be me or my dagger?

[Mario Belli]

I'll bear your service then and warn you when I'm quitting.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

On the honor of a scoundrel?

[Mario Belli]

On my honor.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Good enough. Tomorrow we pay a visit to the court and to my lord, Don Esteban.

[Cesar Borgia]

You bring me news, Billy?

[Mario Belli]

Yes, Don Esteban. Then what is it? It's rather a long story.

[Cesar Borgia]

Answer me.

[Mario Belli]

Did you accomplish your mission outside the door? My lord, I have the honor to present il manifico Andrea Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You find it a pleasant day, Don Esteban?

[Narrator]

Traitor.

[Mario Belli]

What could I do?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Let me say at the beginning, Don Esteban, that we must be objective in these matters. You hate me and you seek to have me killed.

[Cesar Borgia]

You dare speak such words here in.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The palace of my lord, Cesar Borgia? But you see, I enjoy his favorite. And I promise you, Don Esteban, gross dog that you are, I loathe you quite as happily as you loathe me. There is this difference between us. When I wish to take your life, I won't deny myself the personal pleasure of the act.

[Cesar Borgia]

Ah, here you are. Osidee.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lord Borgia. My lord, may I present to you my friend and servant, Mario Baillie.

[Mario Belli]

I kneel to your lordship.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Gaze upon his countenance, Sire. Did you ever see such treachery? An assassin by trade. Sold to the highest bidder.

[Cesar Borgia]

And does he really differ from any other person in this room? Arsini. Come to the window. Got a stay? Barn. You may go.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Ah. A party in your garden. For what occasion?

[Cesar Borgia]

Honored guests on a pilgrimage for the Holy Year. You see the old man there talking.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

By the oak tree with the white hair? Yes, yes.

[Cesar Borgia]

The Lord of Citta del Monte.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Aha. The mountain city.

[Cesar Borgia]

The city you shall take for me. And with it, if you wish, something for yourself. The key to the city. And a jewel with the having.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And what is this jeweled key?

[Announcer]

There.

[Cesar Borgia]

She has just come around the tree.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I'll be blasted.

[Cesar Borgia]

Look. Well, Orsini. So young, so beautiful.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The old man's wife, Camilla Baglione. Wife to his Excellence Marc Antonio Verano.

[Cesar Borgia]

You've informed yourself, my lord. You know what I want. Cheetah Del Monte by spring. Now, shall we join our guests in.

[Narrator]

The garden.

[Cesar Borgia]

My lord Verano? I'm sure Andrea Orsini will prove an entertaining guide during your stay in Rome.

[Colonel Perrault]

My wife and I offer our thanks.

[Camilla Baglione]

From what I know of the noble Orsini, he should be entertaining under any circumstances.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

So long as they include Yourself, my lady.

[Colonel Perrault]

Have you met before, then?

[Cesar Borgia]

Well, Orsini, have you met before?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

An unfair question. I could play the gallant and answer yes a thousand times each time I look on beauty. Or I could be cautious and sly. And only say, madonna's memory will guide my answer.

[Colonel Perrault]

There you have the perfect example of diplomacy. And I still don't know whether they've ever met.

[Camilla Baglione]

Does it really matter, my lord husband?

[Colonel Perrault]

Of course not, my dear.

[Cesar Borgia]

My lord Morano, it occurs to me that now would be an excellent time to secure the friendships of our states.

[Colonel Perrault]

But what changing of the subject is this?

[Cesar Borgia]

Not a change at all. For since Andrea Orsini finds favor in your eyes. I suggest we exchange ambassadors. I shall appoint mine now, Orsini.

[Colonel Perrault]

I see you are a soldier, Orsini, and my people live in peace. I hope you find sufficient amusement in Citta del Monte.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I'm sure I shall.

[Camilla Baglione]

We shall welcome you as a friend. We pray that our friendship lasts.

[Cesar Borgia]

And so the bond between our states is fixed.

[Announcer]

Our drama continues in just a moment. But now, here's a word from RCA Victor. It's a common experience with all of us to spend a heap of money on pleasure. And be completely unable a month later. To remember where it went. Well, that's an experience you won't have. When you buy an RCA Victor television, radio, phonograph combination. Three great instruments in one beautiful cabinet for one beautiful price. Far less than you'd pay for comparable instruments separately. Yes, when you buy an RCA Victor combination. Your money stretches. And it talks through AM and FM radio. And it sings through two automatic record changes to play all record speeds. And it looks through the matchless pictures of RCA Victor millionproof television. Proven in over a million American homes. And it lasts, entertaining you hour after hour, day after day, year after year. Don't let your pleasure money dribble away. See your RCA Victor dealer and spend where it stretches. Talks, sings, looks and lasts on an RCA Victor combination. Now for the second act of the screen. Director's Playhouse Presentation of Prince of Foxes. Starring Douglas Fairbanks as orsini. With Joyce McKenzie as Camila. Cita del Monte. The wall city raised on its mountain above the conflict of Italy. The path to Cesar Borgia's conquest.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Well, my lord Verano sets an excellent.

[Colonel Perrault]

Banquet table to stop the winter cold.

[Narrator]

Please, Mr. Billy.

[Mario Belli]

Oh, yes, yes.

[Colonel Perrault]

And you, my dear?

[Camilla Baglione]

No, thank you, my lady.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Camilla has no need of wine to warm her blood.

[Camilla Baglione]

I find it well to keep a clear head. When I speak to Cesar Borgia's ambassador. In case.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

In case, my lady in case he think me stupid. Your Highness pays little credit to my sense of observation.

[Colonel Perrault]

Captain Orsini. It pleases now to introduce you officially to Chito del Monte.

[Cesar Borgia]

Sails.

[Colonel Perrault]

Lords and councillors, I give you the ambassador of the illustrious Caesar Borgia. The Lord Captain Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lord Verano. I am a professional soldier. If you should see me climbing your walls, know that I am studying your defenses.

[Colonel Perrault]

Oh, not just exercising, but know also.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

That I was not sent here for that. My master has told me that your main strength in Cheetah Del Monte is loyalty. I'm here to spy on this loyalty. And to learn the secret of how it works. I am already learning. Please help me to learn more.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Thank you.

[Mario Belli]

My lady.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Camila. Clown. Is it that my speech has displeased her?

[Camilla Baglione]

We must talk alone. I'll send for you tonight.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lady honors me.

[Camilla Baglione]

It is scarcely honor, Milord Orsini Arsini.

[Cesar Borgia]

Oh.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And does my lady Camilla wait in the shadows?

[Camilla Baglione]

I said we would meet alone.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Then at least stand by the window where we'll find the grace of moonlight. There's the crest of midnight in your eyes, Madonna. And in your hair. And on your lips, the lightest stars.

[Camilla Baglione]

Do you really think I ask you here to listen to such talk?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Young wife, an old husband and a false cheat. My lady forgets herself.

[Camilla Baglione]

I forget nothing. Nothing I saw in Rome. Borgia's soldiers, Borgia's armories, Borgia's talk of war.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Leave the game of politics to your husband, Madonna. He's good for little else.

[Camilla Baglione]

Obviously, you came here expecting kisses. I make you a promise, Lord Orsini. Betray us and you shall feel a kiss of this upon your lips.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A dagger glitters in the moonlight. And fierce words flash from an angry beauty. Now there's a picture worth the painting.

[Camilla Baglione]

There's no laughter in me, Orsini. For my husband's sake. There will be peace between us. So long as you act peaceably. Someone's coming. I've spoken my words. Mark them well. Orsini.

[Colonel Perrault]

Is someone there?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Andrea Orsini, my lord Verano.

[Colonel Perrault]

Wandering about the castle at midnight. And what's this? A dagger?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It would appear to be a dagger. Malorden.

[Colonel Perrault]

Orsini. You find my wife attractive, don't you?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Only with the deepest respect. Words I regret. Your lordship thinks ill of me.

[Colonel Perrault]

I think ill of no one.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your lordship is tolerant.

[Colonel Perrault]

I am not tolerant of anything that would affect my wife's honor.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And is that in question?

[Colonel Perrault]

Fortunately, no. Mind you, she's as capable of going to the devil as any other young Woman. But I'm certain of this. If she does go, she won't sneak about it. She'll tell me first.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your lordship's confidence is most worthy of consideration.

[Colonel Perrault]

Then consider, my lord. And incidentally, I'll return this dagger to her. Good night.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

These walls, Bailey. Mark the thickness of these walls.

[Mario Belli]

But look at these cannon. Almost rusted through. And these snows will finish the job.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Look. We stand thousands of feet in the air. A sheer drop.

[Mario Belli]

And they don't have a guard.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Not one single guard matter guards or cannon, here they can be supplied. Look. Now, the city sits on the rim of a mountain. In only one place can they be attacked.

[Mario Belli]

Borgia's troops would take it like a shepherd herd's sheep.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No, Billy. Give me a thousand men and enough food and ammunition and I could hold this place till the enemy died of old age.

[Mario Belli]

It's all very well, my Lord Orsini, but our job is to attack it, not defend it.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The winter air. Sit down, Bailey. Once, Bailey, there was a young man who lived in the country. A peasant's hut. He wanted riches and power and all the fullness of the earth. And he set about getting them with a handful of paints. But other doors opened and others.

[Narrator]

And.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Ah, it's a good place to.

[Colonel Perrault]

I'm pleased you find it so, my Lord Varano. You've come to my favorite spot, where one can almost see the entire world. Whenever I'm troubled, I come here. And I always find an answer to my problem.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It frightens me. A misplaced step and you're gone.

[Colonel Perrault]

Are you afraid of death or Sini?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I have no great affection for it, sir.

[Colonel Perrault]

You still must learn the greatest truths of living. That after all, nothing ties. The seasons repeat themselves. The trees and grass grow again. Even our own humble places are taken.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I don't have your wisdom, my lord. I believe that I was born and that I must die. And between the two extremes lies a devil of a lot of living. I make the best of it.

[Colonel Perrault]

You're cursed with youth. Or seedy. And despite the stories that are told, youth is not the happiest part of life. I'm sorry for you and for my wife. You both have a long road to travel. Good morning, my friend.

[Mario Belli]

My lord. Or singing.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

What is it, Bailey? Perfect. Heaven sent. What are you talking about?

[Mario Belli]

When the time comes, we give the old man a problem. He comes out here to think it out.

[Cesar Borgia]

A push.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It's over. Always the man of business. Come along. I'll finish that portrait I'm painting of you. Come along. I'm Getting cold.

[Cesar Borgia]

Now.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Hold that position. We're almost through.

[Mario Belli]

All right, don't. Don't push at me.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And does my lady Camilla have an interest in art that she watches so closely?

[Camilla Baglione]

I find it odd, a soldier who dabbles at painting.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Belly, your head a bit to the left. Perhaps, Madonna, it's an artist who dabbles in soldiering.

[Camilla Baglione]

Perhaps when you finish this, if you have nothing else to do, you'll paint.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Stand still, Belly. Perhaps Madonna herself.

[Camilla Baglione]

Perhaps.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

If you promise to wave no more daggers in my face.

[Camilla Baglione]

I promised you peace if you gave peace in return.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

We'll start in the morning. But I warn you, it's a long job. We won't finish until spring. Is Madonna weary?

[Camilla Baglione]

No, I'm fine.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A few more brushstrokes and it will be finished.

[Camilla Baglione]

And you'll show it to me then?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The months of painting? Yes, I'll show it to you. I daub here, there. And I tell myself I'm creating beauty. Months, my lady. And you've been very patient for me. They've been extremely happy months. And now they're finished, and so's the painting.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

May.

[Camilla Baglione]

May I see? Look or see me?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Does it please you?

[Camilla Baglione]

Oh, I thought you were only a maker of compliments. A lord of ambitions and dark schemes. But now, in my own portrait. Oh, there's a great artist in you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I might have been once it's past.

[Camilla Baglione]

Now you speak with humility. Why?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Because I find I'm a stupid man. Everything I know is stale.

[Camilla Baglione]

What's troubling you, Orsini?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I don't know. I only know that spring is here. And what was planted in the winter must soon begin to grow. You'll pardon me. Madonna Orsini. God help me. What am I doing to these people?

[Announcer]

Mary.

[Mario Belli]

Pico. My lord Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

What is it, Bailey?

[Colonel Perrault]

News.

[Mario Belli]

News? Spring is here. We have a visitor in Citta del Monte.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And what visitor is that?

[Mario Belli]

The blade of Cesar Borgia, my former employer.

[Colonel Perrault]

I have read your master's message, Don Esteban.

[Cesar Borgia]

I recommend that you consider it.

[Camilla Baglione]

Well, what does he demand?

[Colonel Perrault]

It appears that Cesar Borgia is launching an attack on Camerino. He demands passage for his troops and a levy of a thousand men from my city.

[Camilla Baglione]

And this was friendship?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My master asks that you keep your period of deliberation to a minimum.

[Mario Belli]

I await your answer.

[Colonel Perrault]

I. I'll have to think.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lord Verano.

[Camilla Baglione]

The Lord Orsini no longer has a welcome here. Come, my husband.

[Colonel Perrault]

Thank you, my dear.

[Cesar Borgia]

The bride and groom. Spring in the lap of winter, and you fail to Win her?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Yes. It appears I've failed all around.

[Cesar Borgia]

The vacation is over.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I Orini.

[Cesar Borgia]

Now we'll see which is more effective. Pretty words or the drums of war.

[Mario Belli]

There is Tanzorini, the old man on the edge of death.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Do we strike? Bailey? Bailey, Let me think.

[Mario Belli]

Soon you'll have everything. Wealth, position, fame, and even the woman, if you want to. You've sweated for this how many years?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

All my life, it seems. But I can't kill that old man.

[Mario Belli]

Well, then, give me your orders.

[Narrator]

No, no.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Let him live. And may Borgia go to the devil. You fool.

[Cesar Borgia]

I'll do it.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You'll obey me.

[Mario Belli]

Well, come to your senses. There's no profit in fighting for lost causes.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I am not so sure, my friend.

[Mario Belli]

Well, then hear me, Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I give you notice.

[Mario Belli]

I withdraw from your service and offer my knife to Cesare Borgia. You've betrayed not only him, but me. I'll not forget that.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Perhaps you'll not forget Citta del Monte either.

[Colonel Perrault]

Lucille, Did I see you arguing with Messiah Belli?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No, my lord Durano. If I argued, I think it was with myself. Have you decided yet on Borgia's demands?

[Mario Belli]

I have.

[Colonel Perrault]

No honorable man, no honorable city could give Borgia what he wants.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And, my lord, you've chosen well. And if fight you must, I offer one more sword against Cesar Borgia.

[Announcer]

Here is something you should know. If you ever suffer from the sudden pain of headaches, neuritis or neuralgia, it's a way to ease the pain, often within a few minutes. A way that is incredibly fast and effective. It's Anacin. Anacin is like a doctor's prescription. That is, anacin contains not just one, but a combination of medically proven active ingredients in easy to take tablet form. Thousands of people were first introduced to Anacin through their own physicians or dentists. But today these tablets are in such widespread use that all drug counters have them and anyone may enjoy their benefits. Next time you suffer from the pains of a headache, neuritis or neuralgia, by all means try Anison. You'll like the convenience of Anacin tablets and you will be delighted with Anacin's incredibly fast action. A N A C I N Anison. Ask for Aniston by name today at your druggist. You are listening to the Screen Directors Playhouse, the Thursday night feature on NBC's All Star Festival, brought to you by RCA Victor, world leader in radio, first in recorded music, first in television, and by the makers of Aniston. For fast relief from the pain of headache, neuritis and Neuralgia the Screen Director's Playhouse presentation of Prince of Foxes, starring Douglas Fairbanks with Joyce McKenzie, will continue in just a moment after a short pause for station identification. This is the Screen Director's Playhouse. We continue with the third act of Prince of Foxes, starring Douglas Fairbanks as orsini, with Joyce McKenzie as Camila. In its determination to oppose the demands of Cesar Borgia, the mountain city of Ch Del Monte prepares for war. And as the blacksmiths forge their weapons, the eyes of Andrea Orini are everywhere.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You there, up on the wall. Help get that cannon into place.

[Colonel Perrault]

My people can fight your sea, but time.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Time. We'll make what time we can. A military lesson, my lord. You know Borgia's battle strategies?

[Mario Belli]

No, I, I.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No matter. I know it as I know my hand. First, intelligence about the enemy. He'll have that from my erstwhile friend Mario Bailey. Second, the battle order. Mounted troops, artillery, and then the infantry. But why wait for Borgia to attack? Why not go out and meet him?

[Colonel Perrault]

But we have only a few soldiers.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Or see me.

[Colonel Perrault]

None of them change.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And still I ask, why wait? Like rats in a hole. No, my lord Verana.

[Cesar Borgia]

We are wolves.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Wolves who attack the bull.

[Colonel Perrault]

Wolves often perish in such an attack.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Not wily wolves. They wait for a chance to rush in from the side, avoid the sharp horns. And then they strike. Always the weakest part.

[Colonel Perrault]

You know your profession?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Well, I should. I learnt it from a master. But now the apprentice rebels. And we attack. With your permission, my lord. And we attack Borgia's cavalry. Before it begins to climb your mountain, my lord, in respect for your years, the battle will be dangerous.

[Colonel Perrault]

These are my people, Orsini. When they ride out, I ride with them. Camilla, my dear.

[Camilla Baglione]

My lord husband. Wear this scarf. I give it to you from my shoulders. With my love and my prayers for your safety.

[Colonel Perrault]

Thank you. Goodbye, my dear. I'll ride to the front.

[Camilla Baglione]

And for you, Milor Orsini, this handkerchief. With my gratitude.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Madonna. May Citta del Monte. No victory before the sun has risen.

[Camilla Baglione]

They leave now.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

And suddenly the artist finds himself a soldier again. Well, my lady, it's all in a day's living. Let's hope it's not in a night sky.

[Narrator]

Dying.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Farewell, Madonna.

[Colonel Perrault]

Are the archers hidden?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

As only the wolf can hide them. Or the fox. Once I was called a fox.

[Colonel Perrault]

A prince of foxes.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Well, we'll see. It's a good night, my lord. Clear and sweet.

[Colonel Perrault]

I smell a bitterness in the air, Rossini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The smell of battle. Someday, perhaps, there will be an end to this. Once. Cesar Borgia is destroyed. Perhaps, my lord, we fight a battle in the last of wars.

[Colonel Perrault]

Once, such words were spoken to me by my dearest friend. A soldier only in defense of his home. He was a saint in honor and justice. He passed those virtues on to his only child.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

He's dead, then?

[Colonel Perrault]

Yes. When he was killed. She needed refuge from the enemies of their family. I married her to assure her that refuge. I made her my daughter.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

So you did not have to speak those words, my lord.

[Narrator]

I know, Orsini.

[Colonel Perrault]

But we face a battle, and who knows?

[Narrator]

Listen.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Borgia's cavalry coming into the wood or seeing you.

[Colonel Perrault]

Command us now. Myself, my soldiers.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I hope our own horses don't give us away.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

There.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

They're in the clearing.

[Colonel Perrault]

Close.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Closer. Beautiful. Good fortune, my lord.

[Colonel Perrault]

Good fortune.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Archers.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Fire it. We've won the day, sire. That news should heal your wounds.

[Colonel Perrault]

The wounds of an old man who sought to be a warrior.

[Camilla Baglione]

Please rest, my husband.

[Colonel Perrault]

Where all the wounded? Brought back to Citta del Monte.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

All are safe, my lord.

[Colonel Perrault]

And the battle continues?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It continues well.

[Camilla Baglione]

Now you must rest. Soon you'll be strong again.

[Colonel Perrault]

No, my child. Give me your hand.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It shall always be here, my lord.

[Colonel Perrault]

And you, Camilla, you have it? There are men, there are battles. Always a hatred, a fighting in our hearts. I have grown very old and always searched for peace. That even the scraps of wisdom that come with age deny it to me. Perhaps you will find it an end to this. A last battle.

[Camilla Baglione]

Your kindness has brought me more peace than I'd ever known.

[Colonel Perrault]

Then, Camilla. I have gone.

[Narrator]

Well.

[Colonel Perrault]

You have known peace once. May you know it again. And may you know love. Or see me.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Yes, my lord.

[Colonel Perrault]

You have both been true to me. I have understood. Now be true to each other.

[Camilla Baglione]

My husband.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The Last battle Madonna. At dawn yesterday, the city was besieged by the troops of Cesar Borgia Orsina.

[Camilla Baglione]

You can't keep on like this.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A soldier has his duties, Madonna. And among the most distasteful is writing the chronicle of the battle.

[Camilla Baglione]

How long has it been since you've closed your eyes?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Since the battle turned against us. What has it been? Two days? Three days? A week? Once I said I could hold the city for an eternity. Now for an hour, I scribble in a book. Sitte del Monte Besieged by Cesar Bol.

[Camilla Baglione]

And who shall read your book?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No other soldiers, perhaps? A jaded historian here and there. And perhaps. Perhaps, Madonna, Someday all this shall be related. As an adventure. To amuse and frighten children.

[Camilla Baglione]

And how will you appear in this adventure?

[Narrator]

How?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

As a hero. If we win and certainly a villainous scoundrel if we lose.

[Camilla Baglione]

No. As a friend and a true and honest nobleman.

[Cesar Borgia]

Nobleman?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Camilla. I wonder if history will ever discover the truth of that. Months gone by and still they shoot their infernal cannon.

[Camilla Baglione]

Arsini, our food grows short.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Then we'll eat less.

[Camilla Baglione]

Many of the men have fallen ill.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The devil take them. Then let them shoot their arrows from their beds.

[Camilla Baglione]

Arsini, if. If we fall.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

We won't fall. I'll hold this city till Borgia's men rot in their boots. You hear me, Madonna. I have failed in art and failed in politics. But as a soldier, I will not be beaten.

[Camilla Baglione]

Corsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Three months. Three months of this command.

[Cesar Borgia]

This.

[Camilla Baglione]

Orsini. What shall we do?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Famine, pestilence and the dead outnumber the living. One more assault and we're finished.

[Camilla Baglione]

Then let it be. Perhaps they'll show mercy.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Mercy, my lady? Only one thing remains. To take measures for your safety.

[Camilla Baglione]

What measures?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

There's a secret exit from the city. While Borgia's troops pillage, you'll escape into the open. And then on to Rurugio, Venice, wherever you wish.

[Camilla Baglione]

And you'll escort me?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Oh, no. Only in spirit, Madonna.

[Camilla Baglione]

Then I intend to stay here.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

These are my sort.

[Camilla Baglione]

And mine too. Do you think so badly of me that I could crawl away while you and my people die?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Heroism is a shallow thing, Madonna, if it's not rooted in wisdom.

[Camilla Baglione]

I don't intend to be wise. I intend only to stay here.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Then for my sake, Camilla. Escape while you can.

[Camilla Baglione]

For your sake.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I said I'd failed at art and politics. I thought I could hold the city. And now I've failed at that too. But if you are safe, then. My life has been to some purpose, Arsini.

[Camilla Baglione]

My life must have a purpose too.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

But you throw it away. You. You, Camilla. The artillery. It stopped. You bought your men under a flag.

[Colonel Perrault]

Of truce at the city gates.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

What do they want? A parley. Take them to the council hall, Madonna. We'll meet them together. Hurry now. Change into your prettiest dress. If haggling's their game, the road may be longer than we thought.

[Camilla Baglione]

You bring me a message from Cesar Borgia?

[Cesar Borgia]

We do.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

May I introduce the emissaries, my lady? I've cause to know them well. This conceited devil is Captain Don Esteban Ramirez.

[Cesar Borgia]

I bow to the traitor Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Thank you. And this other one? Him? You remember? Mario Belli? He's risen in the world.

[Mario Belli]

What would you expect of a Judas? I'm bound to prosper.

[Camilla Baglione]

Do you come to Ask for peace.

[Cesar Borgia]

As commanding officer of the forces of Caesar Borgia. I'm authorized by his excellence to make certain proposals which my master believes you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

May find to your advantage.

[Camilla Baglione]

Proceed.

[Cesar Borgia]

First, in return for the surrender of.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The city, My lord engages to restrain.

[Cesar Borgia]

His soldiers from a sack. To take no vengeance on you or your people.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

What security does he offer?

[Cesar Borgia]

His illustrious word, huh?

[Camilla Baglione]

What else does your master desire?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The above terms shall be considered null and void.

[Cesar Borgia]

Unless the traitor Orsini be delivered alive.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Into the hands of the Duke Cesar's officers. Then I am to be the main prize of war.

[Mario Belli]

We look forward to your company once again. Manifico.

[Camilla Baglione]

Return to your master and your decision. Tell him I will set torches to the city. Rather than accept the conditions he offers.

[Mario Belli]

I shall convey your answer. We ask safe conduct back to our lines.

[Camilla Baglione]

You shall have it.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Go.

[Camilla Baglione]

And so, my lord Orsini, we dispose of these matters.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Imagine what food for the historians. But Andrea Orsini shall become the prize of war.

[Camilla Baglione]

We reject the terms. We'll renew the defense.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

It will be the last. Madonna.

[Camilla Baglione]

I'm not afraid of death.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

But much more to the point, I've made a sudden discovery. Neither am.

[Narrator]

I.

[Cesar Borgia]

Deliver that message into the hands of his excellent Cesar Borgia. As swiftly as possible.

[Mario Belli]

Your lord. You've done a. Step out. A prisoner surrendered himself.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Execute him. I have no time for Andrea Orsini.

[Cesar Borgia]

So you accept our terms?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I ask to be taken to Borgia by his orders. I Sit in a seat. Well, Sit lightly, my friend, lest you damage your brains again.

[Cesar Borgia]

Your tongue, perhaps. We'll rip it out of you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

But His Excellence will decide the manner of your punishment. For difference. For all intents and purposes, I'm already dead. Yes, I'd say that was quite correct. And yet, like so many dead ones, I can still influence the living.

[Narrator]

What?

[Cesar Borgia]

You presume to dictate terms?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Only to warn you to stand by the terms already offered.

[Cesar Borgia]

And if we don't?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You will conquer a dead city. Every building burned. Every man, woman and child. A corpse. There'll be less glory than loot. And the horror of Citta del Monte will be the name Cesar Borgia, hated by all of history.

[Cesar Borgia]

We. We are men of honor.

[Mario Belli]

We stand by our terms.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Then I am your prisoner.

[Mario Belli]

And my fine friend.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Of many words.

[Cesar Borgia]

Some very amusing things are going to happen to you.

[Colonel Perrault]

His Excellency, the Lord said of Borgia.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Duke of Valentinois and Duke of Romania.

[Camilla Baglione]

Madonna Camilla Borgia comes to claim what is his.

[Cesar Borgia]

On the contrary, Madonna Camilla. I come from Rome not as a conqueror.

[Camilla Baglione]

Your Troops have conquered.

[Cesar Borgia]

But, madam, I would create a bond of affection between us. What can I do to accomplish this?

[Camilla Baglione]

There is only one thing I would ask of you. You wouldn't grant it?

[Cesar Borgia]

Ask, Madonna. Ask and find out.

[Camilla Baglione]

Life and freedom for Orsini.

[Cesar Borgia]

My lord, this is most touching.

[Camilla Baglione]

I ask only this of you.

[Cesar Borgia]

What you ask is not impossible, my lord. Such love as this is indeed rare. And I should respect it. Yes. I should do something about it.

[Camilla Baglione]

Can I dare to hope?

[Cesar Borgia]

Oh, yes, your excellence. I would certainly say that. You may hope. And I promise you'll be surprised.

[Camilla Baglione]

Oh, my lord.

[Cesar Borgia]

We'll discuss it at dinner tonight. Will that suit you? At dinner? The Madonna isn't eating?

[Camilla Baglione]

No, my lord. Borgai.

[Cesar Borgia]

Nonsense. Melee, see that her excellence is fed.

[Mario Belli]

Ah, some fruit, my lady. A fine plum. These grapes taken from your own garden?

[Camilla Baglione]

Nothing.

[Cesar Borgia]

Is it this Orini that prays upon your mind? Well then, I promised to consider his case, didn't I? Should we invite him to join us at table?

[Camilla Baglione]

I have no words to thank you.

[Cesar Borgia]

You'll find them. Bring in the Lord Orini. I give you Madonna and pray.

[Camilla Baglione]

Oh, merciful God, what have you done to him?

[Colonel Perrault]

Few tricks.

[Cesar Borgia]

See how Donna Staban's eyes glitter with the pride of his accomplishments. Tortured and clothed in rags. Madonna, the clothing of his station. Or Sini, the peasant.

[Camilla Baglione]

I love and honor the lord.

[Cesar Borgia]

Scum from a mountain hut who pulley played a game and poorly lost it. He was a lord only at my command. And now I return to him to what he was. The fraud stands before you. Bring the peasant closer.

[Camilla Baglione]

Mother of God.

[Cesar Borgia]

I ordered them to leave you your tongue or sine. Have you any jest for us now? Any words of wisdom?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My Lord Borgia, let me thank you for this. Last of all the things you taught me. You've taught me that there is no victory in power, no honor in deceit, no future in living as you will live, hated and alone. Madonna Camilla, forgive me for the misfortune I have brought upon your house.

[Camilla Baglione]

Orsini. Peasant.

[Narrator]

Noble.

[Camilla Baglione]

You are the lord to whom I humbly offer my love for all eternity.

[Cesar Borgia]

Ah, this joke is finished. Now I speak your sentence. Arseny belly. See that the lady keeps a chair.

[Announcer]

I will.

[Camilla Baglione]

My belly. You were his friend.

[Cesar Borgia]

Friend? Mario Belli Massabelli stands alone against the world. An alchemist ever ready to transform his friends into gold.

[Mario Belli]

You're a humble man of business, my lord.

[Cesar Borgia]

Then listen, my friend, and see if you approve. Andrea Orsini. My sentence is that you shall be exposed in a cage on the castle Tower there to remain as a spectacle and warning until your bones drop apart.

[Camilla Baglione]

No, my lord, Please.

[Cesar Borgia]

Take him from my side.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your excellence, I protest.

[Cesar Borgia]

You belish protest.

[Mario Belli]

What sentence is this for an ungrateful peasant who turned on your loving highness a half dead carcass to rot in a cage?

[Cesar Borgia]

No, Bella. You think I've been too lenient? What would you suggest?

[Mario Belli]

Something blacker. Orsini, the painter has been partial to colors. Let him enjoy them with empty sockets. I say blind him. Blind him and set him on the road. And wherever the poor wretch wanders, let him be a warning of your lordship's justice.

[Camilla Baglione]

Oh, my lord, take my own life. Take what you wish.

[Cesar Borgia]

Madonna, you begin to work. Me gods. Close them out.

[Camilla Baglione]

Cover yourself.

[Cesar Borgia]

Do you fancy the new sentence?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Most fitting, your excellence.

[Cesar Borgia]

Then it shall be done tomorrow.

[Mario Belli]

Might I suggest, my lord, why not here and now. My own two thumbs. You gouging this thing? I promise you amusement. Look. Like these two grapes. I hold them in my hand. Then with my thumb.

[Cesar Borgia]

This promises to be a show with a watching guards. Tie his hands. Madonna, I do hope you're not squeamish. There shall be a sight to ponder in the dungeon. And you. Will Bailey. You may proceed.

[Mario Belli]

I will, my lord.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Camila. One look.

[Mario Belli]

Take a good look at me, Orini. It's the last thing you'll see. My thumbs.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Scream. Orsini, act the part. You understand? Scream.

[Mario Belli]

And now, my lords, it I.

[Narrator]

The.

[Mario Belli]

Two grapes masquerade as your eyes, my lords. I show you the eyes of the peasant Orsini.

[Cesar Borgia]

So be it. So be it. And thou set the carrion upon the road to see the glory of his folly. Donna Stabon, I leave Chita del Monte in your hands. May my lord have a pleasant journey. There can be no pleasantries for those who don't yet have what they want. And you, Captain Bailey. I'll send for you when I have need of your excellent talents.

[Mario Belli]

I await your word.

[Cesar Borgia]

One point more, Donna Stabarton. I gave orders that the Lady Camilla should be here to wish me farewell. Why isn't she by your side, my lord, she. She refused. And the coddling is over. Consign her excellence to her own dungeon.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I was about to suggest the saving.

[Cesar Borgia]

Well then, I leave you now. Mele. I shall continue to depend on you.

[Mario Belli]

Your magnificence has no more faithful servant than I.

[Cesar Borgia]

Then my future is assured, depending on which one of us is hanged first.

[Mario Belli]

And here is Amanitico Orsini once again in the peasant hut.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Bailey, my friend.

[Mario Belli]

Now let me See you. The wounds have almost healed.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I've waited for you to come. The finest traitor of them all.

[Announcer]

You know this whole thing pleases me.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Who betrayed who?

[Mario Belli]

And where did it start? No matter. My stomach has turned traitor to the rest of me. I. I've discovered the devil doesn't always pay the best.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Bailey. Madonna Camilla. Is she well?

[Mario Belli]

Today Cesar Borgia rode back to Rome. His final words were to have her imprisoned.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

But she's not harmed.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

No.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Who commands the castle?

[Mario Belli]

Don Esteban.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Don Esteban. Of course. Bailey, would you strike one more blow against the Borgia terror?

[Mario Belli]

With all my heart.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

One spark, one small spark could spread into a fire that would burn down his house.

[Mario Belli]

If we had money to hire mercenaries.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

We don't need them. While I've grown strong in this hut, the leaders of the people have come to me. The old soldiers. They are not tired of war so long as they yearn for peace. I've made a plan. Bailey.

[Cesar Borgia]

Oh, the fox.

[Announcer]

Again.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The fox. Now you say Camilla is in the dungeon. Bailey, Zapo, Fabio. All of you, listen to me.

[Cesar Borgia]

We listen.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

This is the secret exit to the castle by which I once hoped Madonna Camilla would make her escape. It serves us now. I go alone to the dungeon. You follow and spread out through the city. When the moon is opposite the tower, then will be the time to strike questions. We know our paths and may fortune go with us this night.

[Cesar Borgia]

Who's there? Answer the guard.

[Narrator]

Who's there?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Now, your keys, friend. God.

[Camilla Baglione]

You are punctual, Don Esteban.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Camilla.

[Camilla Baglione]

Orsini. Oh, my darling. Your eyes.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Well enough to find your beauty in these shadows.

[Camilla Baglione]

You weren't lying.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A trick for Borgia's amusement. Tonight, your people retake the city. I'll give the signal when you're safe.

[Camilla Baglione]

Then let's leave.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Quickly.

[Camilla Baglione]

Every night, Don Esteban comes here. He comes to. I have no words to express his evil.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Guard.

[Cesar Borgia]

Guard.

[Camilla Baglione]

Don Esteban.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Into the shadows.

[Mario Belli]

Here.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Your Excellency.

[Cesar Borgia]

Why aren't you at your post?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Why? Orsini. Blind Orsini. What scheme is this? One of your own making. No matter.

[Cesar Borgia]

Your blindness will soon be over, Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

But look, Don Estella. Can these be eyes you see? Eyes? And this time, my friend, I cast aside my words and take my sword. This time you'll die, artist.

[Colonel Perrault]

What?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Without an assassin to do your dirty work? I take it as my pleasure. Don't fear, my lady. A touch of blood to make the Fox more wily. Don is Tiban. Look to your sword. I give you a message to take your master.

[Cesar Borgia]

Words Again.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No. Steel.

[Narrator]

This.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

This for you.

[Cesar Borgia]

Words.

[Camilla Baglione]

The guard.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Stand back, Camila. It's a long night's keep.

[Cesar Borgia]

My lady.

[Announcer]

Where are you?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Here, Billy.

[Mario Belli]

My living. Hey, what's this?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

His lordship, Don Esteban Ramirez.

[Mario Belli]

He'll have good company. Orsili.

[Camilla Baglione]

The city's taken.

[Mario Belli]

The fox planned well. I'll open the other cells.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Madonna Camilla.

[Camilla Baglione]

Then. Then we are free. Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Not as long as Borgia rules. But we might contrive to put a stop to that.

[Camilla Baglione]

Orsini.

[Narrator]

Ah.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I marvel at the light that burns in my lady's eyes.

[Colonel Perrault]

For what?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A soldier who dabbles in art.

[Camilla Baglione]

An artist who dabbles in war.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A poor peasant.

[Camilla Baglione]

My lord Orsini.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My Lady Camilla.

[Announcer]

So ends our Screen Director's Playhouse presentation of Prince of Foxes and two fascinating performances by Douglas Fairbanks and Joyce McKenzie. Next Thursday, the Screen Director's Playhouse brings you a portrait in scarlet as we present the powerful motion picture story Ivy, directed by the late Sam Wood. And recreating her memorable starring role will be Joan Fontaine. Now here again is tonight's star, Douglas Fairbanks.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

My lords and ladies, the audience. Her Excellency, my lady, Joyce MacKenzie. This peasant, Orsini, were a poor fellow indeed. Did he strut across our drama without a deep and grateful bow to the director? So may we dispense with Orsini and introduce you to the master artist who created Prince of Foxes and such other truly magnificent motion pictures as 12 o' clock high and Song of Bernadette. The director, Henry King. Thank you, Doug Henry, voice, for helping.

[Narrator]

A director solve a problem.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

We are constantly being frustrated by this matter of becoming terrifically involved in a picture story and at the same time, not being able to relax and see it as pure entertainment. But tonight, I finally made it. As I heard Prince of Foxes for the first time in a different medium without having the worry of production sets, pacing and camera angles, I leaned back and thoroughly enjoyed myself. Thanks for a fine adaptation and good night.

[Announcer]

Tonight's production, Prince of Foxes, was presented through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox, whose Technicolor production, Halls of Montezuma, is having its world premiere simultaneously in Hollywood and New York tonight. Starring Richard Widmar, Douglas Fairbanks, may soon be seen in the Columbia release, the great manhunt. Joyce MacKenzie was heard through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox producers of the Mudlark, starring Irene Duncan.

[Narrator]

Done.

[Announcer]

Henry King's next picture, soon to be released, is I'd Climb the Highest Mountain, starring Susan Hayward and Bill Lundigan. Tonight's cast included Bill Conrad, Raymond Burr, Lynn Allen, Lou Merrill, Herbert Butterfield and Ben Wright. The Prince of Foxes, from the novel by Samuel Shellabarger, was adapted for radio by Richard Allen Simmons. The Screen Director's Playhouse is produced by Howard Wiley and directed by Bill Karna. This is Jimmy Wallington speaking and inviting you to listen next Thursday when we present Joan Fontaine in Ivy.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Listen again next week.

[Announcer]

The Screen Director's Playhouse Thursday night feature on NBC's All Star Festival of comedy, Music, mystery and drama. Listen tomorrow evening to the one and only Duffy's Tavern, the Friday night feature of the All Star Festival.

[Cesar Borgia]

Tired of the everyday grind? Ever dream of a life of romantic adventure? Want to get away from it all? We offer you escape.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Escape designed to free you from the four walls of today for a half hour of high adventure.

[Cesar Borgia]

You are standing in a lonely forest clearing, the dawn turned gray by the creeping fog, while standing only yards from you, his eyes filled with his hate for you, is a man who's come to take your life unless you first take his.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Listen now, as escape brings you the second shot, a story based on the classic tale by Alexander Dumas.

[Narrator]

Are you ready, gentlemen?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Ready?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Mario Belli]

Yes.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Get on with it.

[Narrator]

There is no way by which you can compose your differences, settle your quarrel.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Except by this.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Daumier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

There is none.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Moussan.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I am not the challenger.

[Cesar Borgia]

Lieutenant Daumier is.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

If my opponent wishes to withdraw at this point, with a certain loss of.

[Narrator]

Honor, the lieutenant forgets himself.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

My apologies, monsieur.

[Narrator]

Will you be kind enough to proceed?

[Host]

Very well.

[Narrator]

Your seconds have examined these pistols and pronounced them perfectly matched. They are loaded. You make your choice, Lieutenant Daumier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

This one should do nicely.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Lucent. Gentlemen, you will take your places here, where I have planted my saber in the ground, back to back. It you please raise your pistols to shoulder height.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Hold them pointed upward.

[Narrator]

Good. Now, the terms of the duel are these, Major.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

C count.

[Narrator]

You will walk slowly away from each other. On account of 10, you will turn and fire regardless of the effects of the shots. The duel is then declared finished and the quarrel ended. That's satisfactory to both of you?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Quite satisfactory.

[Narrator]

Yes, of course. Are you ready, Major Cull?

[Mario Belli]

Yes. There's no other way of. Yes, I'm ready.

[Narrator]

Gentlemen, it's your pleasure. Yes, yes, go ahead.

[Mario Belli]

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. Dr. Bajou, hurry, please. See what you can do for him.

[Narrator]

Your son had a premonition this would happen, Major Cole.

[Mario Belli]

He didn't need a premonition. Common sense could have told him true.

[Narrator]

Daumier never misses.

[Mario Belli]

Well.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Is he dead, Major.

[Mario Belli]

Fact, I think, is obvious. Congratulations, Lieutenant Mier. Once again you have distinguished yourself by your excellent shooting. It's unfortunate, however, that you so often see fit to direct it against your own comrades in arms.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

He insulted me, sir.

[Mario Belli]

A man must defend, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Lieutenant Daumier reporting as requested, sir.

[Narrator]

At ease, Lieutenant. Let me see here. According to this dossier, you were assigned to my regiment some seven months ago, having just been commissioned from the Academy of Saint Sile.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Though the regiment has not been engaged in military action during that period, you have shown exemplary ability in the performance of duties assigned to you.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Thank you, sir.

[Narrator]

Your official record is excellent, and it can be assumed you will give a good account of yourself when we move against Vienna at the end of the month.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I hope so, sir.

[Narrator]

However, I am more concerned at the moment with your unofficial record. Lieutenant Daumier. Sir? One week after your assignment to my command, you challenged Subaltern Mikolov to a duel and shot and killed him.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

He insulted me, sir.

[Narrator]

Six weeks later, you challenged Lieutenant De Ville to a duel, shot and killed him. But I was only two months after that, Captain Marci. Your bullet smashed his shoulder and he was forced to retire from the service. Three weeks ago, your victim was Lieutenant LeClaire, who still lingers in the hospital.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Does the Colonel know that?

[Narrator]

All now. This morning, near the forest of Marengo, you shot and killed the leader of my 8th platoon, Lieutenant Musin.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

That duel was conducted fairly, sir.

[Narrator]

It was murder. You're a dead shot with a pistol. Those men didn't have a chance against you.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Then they should not be so free with their insults. Colonel, A gentleman has the right to defend his honor.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Daumier, if all you know of honor is what you have learned on the dueling field, then I fear your education has been arrested at a very primitive state.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I resent your implication. If you care to withdraw your remark at once, perhaps yes.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Daumier, you were on the point of issuing a challenge to your commanding officer while standing for an official interview. You are aware of the penalty for such an action, are you not?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes, sir. The guillotine.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant. In seven months I've lost five men. Excellent officers, all of them sacrificed to that exalted sense of honor of yours. Well, there'll be no more of it. Do you understand? But, sir, if you persist in this career of mayhem, if you challenge another man of this regiment, I will convene a court of inquiry. If that court should find your provocation insufficient, and I am quite sure that it would, I will have you stripped of Your commission and thrown out of the army. Is that clear?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Any questions, Lieutenant?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

With the colonel's permission.

[Colonel Perrault]

Yes.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

The colonel has mentioned the penalty for challenging one superior officer under official restraint. But suppose such a challenge should be given in circumstances which are not official and for reasons which are personal.

[Narrator]

In that case, there is no penalty. Lieutenant Daumier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Thank you, sir.

[Narrator]

Dismissed.

[Mario Belli]

Mind if I step in, Colonel?

[Narrator]

Of course not. Come in, Major.

[Mario Belli]

Saw Daumier leaving. He was boiling. What did you do to him?

[Narrator]

Tried to threaten some of that boyish nonsense out of his head. With somewhat dubious success, I'm afraid.

[Mario Belli]

He has a hellish temper, all right. He was in one of my courses at St. Cyr. Needs a campaign to settle him down.

[Narrator]

He'll get it. The orders are confidential. But the little corporal arrives in two weeks. We move against Vienna the week after.

[Mario Belli]

Good. The regiment needs shaking down.

[Narrator]

Confound it, Major Cole. Daumier is worth saving if there's any way of doing it. He could be the best junior officer in the regiment. If he'd only grow up. If. If he could only develop the slightest maturity. Do you realize that I am barely 12 years older than he is?

[Mario Belli]

It's the campaigns, Italy, Egypt. You had to grow up. Wait till we move against the Austrian army.

[Narrator]

That'll settle him down. I hope so.

[Mario Belli]

Oh, by the way, Colonel, you recall my telling you of a niece of mine, Marianne? Yes. Well, she's here. Came up from San Sile this afternoon for a surprise visit. I wondered if you would care to join us at dinner tonight.

[Narrator]

Of course.

[Mario Belli]

Well, then it's settled. Forget about Daumier. You'll straighten out in time.

[Narrator]

Possibly. If he doesn't destroy himself first.

[Mario Belli]

Or someone else.

[Narrator]

Or someone else.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

You're a most remarkable man.

[Narrator]

Remarkable.

[Mario Belli]

I've been telling it to Marianne for three years now.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

But the way you described. Marco Jean, I had pictured a battle scarred veteran of a dozen campaigns, tired and worn and even older than you are.

[Mario Belli]

Oh, heaven forbid.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

But instead, I find.

[Narrator]

Well, you find what, Marianne?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

No, not another word. I fear I may have said enough now to turn your head.

[Mario Belli]

Oh, I rather think you'll find his head a bit more firmly attached than those of the cadets you know at San.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Oh, Uncle Jean, what a thing to say.

[Mario Belli]

Captain d' Autrec has just come in. There's a matter I'd like to see him about. If you'll excuse me, sir.

[Narrator]

Of course, Major. Well, Marianne, how long will you be here?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

A week, possibly two, unless the campaign begins sooner. Oh, I know it's a dark Secret. But there is gossip, of course.

[Narrator]

I see.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Oh, they're going to dance, of course, I expect. Except I'd love to.

[Narrator]

Oh, no.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Really, really.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Now, come on. There's much less danger in a cotillion than there is in a cavalry charge.

[Narrator]

Is there? My arm. Mar.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

And that thin blue line far across the valley there, Almost hidden in the haze. What is that, Colonel Perrault?

[Narrator]

The Danube. Oh, it's an objective. Once we open the campaign.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

The campaign? Danger, death. It's difficult to imagine when everything is so peaceful now. The birds, flowers. Even the hills are happy today.

[Narrator]

And you, my dear?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I'm happy too. Very happy.

[Narrator]

Then forget the campaign today. It doesn't matter.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

And what does matter today?

[Announcer]

You.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I?

[Narrator]

You must have known it. I'm not experienced at hiding such things.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Marianne, I. I think the carriage driver is anxious to leave.

[Narrator]

The devil take the carriage driver.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Why, you're more impetuous than a cadet.

[Narrator]

Where are your concerns?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

It's getting late.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Marianne.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

No, please. We only met three days ago.

[Narrator]

A week, then. Will a week be long enough, my dear?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I think perhaps it will. Ask me then.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Are you there? Yes.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Come in.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Assembly and review in five minutes. Are you ready?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes, if I can get this tunic straight.

[Narrator]

Here's your saber.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Full review every third day. Now something must be up.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The Austrian campaign will move in a matter of days.

[Narrator]

Not my words.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I hope you're right.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Daumier. There's something I think you ought to know.

[Narrator]

We better go.

[Colonel Perrault]

Wait.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

You told me once that while you were at the Academy you exchanged rings with Marianne Cole, the major's niece, right?

[Announcer]

Yes.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

We're planning to be married. She wrote me she'd try to come here for a visit, but so far.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Domier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

What?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Domier.

[Narrator]

She's here.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Here? She's been here for a week.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

A week?

[Announcer]

Where?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

What's she been doing?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Dining, dancing, driving in the countryside, walking in the garden. The usual activities of a girl who's been courted.

[Narrator]

Courted?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

By whom?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

By our commanding officer, my friend, Colonel Perrault.

[Cesar Borgia]

That's a lie.

[Narrator]

It's true.

[Cesar Borgia]

Domi.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The major introducer. The whole regiment is known.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

But they kept it from you for.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Me as well, knowing I was your friend.

[Narrator]

I just heard of it. What are you going to do about it? We'll see.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Arm up. Now. Let's go. You are listening to the second shot. That's tonight's presentation on Escape. On CBS radio's Saturday night series called Gunsmoke. We go back to the early west for the exploits of United States Marshal Matt Dillon. On most of these same stations, CBS radio brings you the excitement of Gunsmoke every Saturday night. And now, escape and Act 2 of the second SH.

[Narrator]

Are you leaving us, Major?

[Mario Belli]

If you will excuse me. Yes, it's bedtime for a man my age.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Good night, Uncle Jean.

[Mario Belli]

Good night, my dear.

[Narrator]

Good night, Major. Marianne.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Yes?

[Narrator]

Do you know what day this is?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Well, it's the day before tomorrow, of course, and a day later than yesterday. But beyond that, I must confess I've lost track of the time.

[Narrator]

It's a week. One week. Today you said a week should be long enough, my dear.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I did.

[Narrator]

I love you, Marianne.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

It seems so strange for you, who have been so many places known, so many women.

[Narrator]

I don't remember any women.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

For you to love me, who knows nothing and has been nowhere.

[Narrator]

The cadets at the academy, not one of them mattered.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Nadas. You matter, my dear Marianne.

[Narrator]

Then you will marry me?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Who could it be at this time of night?

[Narrator]

I suppose we should answer it.

[Camilla Baglione]

Wait.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I hear Uncle Jean coming down. He'll see who it is.

[Camilla Baglione]

Good.

[Narrator]

I'm much too comfortable to move, and the view from here is excellent. View you, my dear?

[Mario Belli]

Oh, Lieutenant Daumier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

My compliments to Colonel Perrot, Major. Tell him I'd like a word with him. And tell him it's personal rather than official. Quite personal.

[Narrator]

Have the lieutenant come in. Major Cole. I gathered from your remarks to Major Cole at the door that you are not here on official military business.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

The colonel has an excellent sense of hearing. It's too bad his sense of decency is not equally admirable.

[Mario Belli]

Lieutenant. Colonel, may I remind you that you're addressing your superior officer?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I am aware of it, Major.

[Mario Belli]

Then while you are in my home, you will conduct yourself in a manner proper to your rank.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

My manner is proper enough for a man who has been grossly offended. I am certain the colonel will admit that the provocation he has given me is.

[Mario Belli]

Lieutenant Daumier.

[Narrator]

Let him talk, Major. What provocation do you fancy I have given you, Lieutenant?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I would prefer to discuss the matter without the presence of Major Cole's niece.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Domia, you're being a fool.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

I was once, but no longer.

[Mario Belli]

You know each other?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Ask your niece, Major.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Stop it, Daumier. We were both fools. Mere children.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

And now, in less than a year, you have grown up, become a lady. The colonel's lady, no less, Though you show little regard for his feelings, since I perceive you still wear my ring on a chain about your throat.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Take it here each day. I meant to give it back, but I put it off. It meant nothing.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

It meant a pledge of betrothal once. Shall I remind you of the circumstances? Our children's words, our children's actions.

[Narrator]

Marianne, I must add my request. Lieutenants, will you leave us alone, please? Yes.

[Mario Belli]

Will you go, my dear?

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Very well, Uncle Jean. Colonel Perrault, I, I.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant, were you implying some sort of understanding between you and Marianne before she came here to visit?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Is the colonel trying to imply he was not aware of it?

[Narrator]

I was not. You lie, Lieutenant. So mind, Major. I think our young friend hardly knows what he's saying.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Then you choose to ignore my insult? Well, I will not be so lenient, Colonel Perrott. Captain Armand will call at your quarters tonight and arrange the affair.

[Mario Belli]

A duel? You are challenging your commanding officer?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

With the colonel's permission, of course. Naturally, he can refuse to accept.

[Narrator]

I accept.

[Colonel Perrault]

No, Colonel.

[Narrator]

I shall expect Captain Armand at my quarters later.

[Mario Belli]

Colonel Perrault.

[Narrator]

And now, Lieutenant Daumier. You are a fool. A brash, unreasoning young fellow. Fool. I'm telling you that quite officially. Dismissed.

[Mario Belli]

He's taking his time. It's 10 o' clock.

[Narrator]

Captain Armand is hardly as reckless as D. I imagine it's taking some persuasion to get him to act in this matter.

[Mario Belli]

Do as I suggest, Colonel. Demand that the duel be fought with sabres. I saw you on the barricades at Firenze.

[Narrator]

Everyone would believe the choice was made through cowardice. It's well known that the Lieutenant fights with a pistol. So be it, then.

[Mario Belli]

But he's a dead shot. He'll kill you.

[Narrator]

The probabilities are in his favor.

[Mario Belli]

Then how in the name of heaven can you sit there and be so calm about it?

[Narrator]

Come, Major. I am anything but calm. No, no, no. Not about the possibility of death. I've spent my life with death, cheated it for years. When it comes, it comes. And for me it's overdue. It's not death. It's Marianne. Oh, she was young.

[Mario Belli]

Too young. Not yet awakened, as she said herself. A childish thing. It meant nothing.

[Narrator]

I am not so sure, Major. Perhaps the strength and surge of my own feeling may have blinded me to hers.

[Mario Belli]

We've been here a week and made no effort to see him.

[Narrator]

But she wore his ring. You see my position, Major. If I should kill him, it would be a terrible injury to her. And on the other hand, should the result be reversed, her life with him would be clouded forever by the thought that she had brought about my death.

[Mario Belli]

Whilst you insist on believing she cares.

[Narrator]

For Daumier, I can see no other.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Explanation except the Obvious one, Maria. I am not ordinarily an eavesdropper any more than I am other things.

[Narrator]

You seem to believe I am, Marianne. At this hour, a gentleman's quarters are.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I think I am, amply chaperoned by Uncle Jean. In fact, too much so for what I have to say.

[Mario Belli]

I'll wait in the passage outside. Colonel. Keep an eye out for Captain Armand.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Do you believe I have played with your affections? Treated your love lightly for some feeling of vanity?

[Narrator]

In such a conquest, I don't condemn you, my dear. My rank, perhaps. An air of experience. Anyone can be misled for a week.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

I meant what I said to Daumier. It was a childish thing. So there is no reason for this duel, you see. You can't go through with it now.

[Narrator]

But I have to, my dear. There's nothing else I can do.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

Daumier is being a fool. Must you be one?

[Narrator]

I have no choice. Under the circumstances, I can own it's Captain Armand. Come, you can go out this way. It's better he not see you here.

[Camilla Baglione]

But the duel.

[Don Esteban Ramirez]

You must not risk your life.

[Narrator]

Life is risk, Marianne. Goodbye, my dear. Come in, Captain Armand. At ease, Captain. Yes, sir. Major Cole here has kindly agreed to act as my second. The precise details of time and place can be arranged between you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

But as to the conditions of the duel itself, I wish to state definite requirements. This is of course, my right. As the challenged party, Lt. Daumier has.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Instructed me to accept whatever conditions you may impose, sir.

[Cesar Borgia]

Good.

[Narrator]

And here they are. Duelling pistols, of course. Very good.

[Colonel Perrault]

The distance?

[Narrator]

Two paces. Two paces. Correct.

[Mario Belli]

Colonel. Are you sure what you are saying?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Two paces. It is impossible to miss.

[Narrator]

Each of us shall take his position and aim at his opponent and may fire his shot at will, after the count of three. But I. Now a final condition, Captain. One of the pistols will not be loaded.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I hardly know what to.

[Mario Belli]

Colonel. It means certain death for one of you. For the one who draws the empty gun leaves everything else to chance.

[Narrator]

Better so than leave it to the lieutenant's marksmanship. Well, Captain, The Major is right.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

The result is purely a matter of chance, sir.

[Narrator]

Which is proper, I think, in an affair of honor. Shouldn't fate be given a hand in the matter? Do you decline my terms, Captain Ockham?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

No, we can't decline.

[Narrator]

It's your right.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

Very well, Colonel. On behalf of Lieutenant Omier, I accept.

[Mario Belli]

Colonel, you're being as foolish as he is.

[Narrator]

Stop now, before it's too late. I think it's too late now, Major. Colonel, it appears they're all here ahead of us.

[Mario Belli]

Only mean tragedy, no matter what happens.

[Narrator]

Morning, gentlemen. Monsieur Dutrec, I understand that you are to officiate. If the Colonel pleases. Of course. Pistols are in this case. I've already seen of the loading. Do you know which is the loaded gun, Colonel? It doesn't matter, since Lieutenant D will have first choice. Quite so. Will you choose your weapon, Lieutenant?

[Douglas Fairbanks]

I will.

[Narrator]

You hesitate, Lieutenant. I was told you always approach these affairs with a certain ease and confidence.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

This one.

[Narrator]

That is your final choice, Lieutenant?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Very well, Colonel. Thank you.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

If you will take your places, gentlemen.

[Narrator]

The sabers are planted on the ground two paces apart. You will stand back of them and face your opponent. Are you ready, gentlemen? At your pleasure, Monsieur. Lieutenant Daumier.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Yes, of course. Get on with it.

[Narrator]

You understand that neither of you will fire before the count of three? Good gentlemen, you will take aim. You're trembling, Lieutenant. Did you tremble in your other duels?

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Count. Go ahead and count.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

One, two, three.

[Narrator]

Fate seems to be against you, Lieutenant Daumier. You drew the empty gun. Fire.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Fire and get it over with.

[Narrator]

It's a new feeling for you, isn't it, Lieutenant? Looking into the muzzle of the pistol and knowing it holds death for you. It's a feeling five of your previous opponents had. A feeling. One learns in campaigns and battles. At the same time one learns the real meaning of honor. It's called fear, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Fire.

[Cesar Borgia]

You devil.

[Mario Belli]

Don't torture him, Colonel. Do as he says. Get it over with.

[Narrator]

Torture. Is his torture any greater than that he imposed on others? Men who meant no insult to him, but were forced to face certain death from his marksmanship because of his self acclaimed sense of honor. Is it too bad such drastic measures as this were required to bring to an end your career of slaughter, Lieutenant.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Fire. Pull the trigger.

[Narrator]

We back up your Colonel. Very well, gentlemen. An end to your last duel, Lieutenant.

[Douglas Fairbanks]

A misfire?

[Narrator]

A miracle. No, quite the contrary, Lieutenant Daumier. Next week we move against Austria and France will have need of all her officers. I did not wish to waste your life or mine. Neither of the pistols was loaded.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

Under the direction of Norman MacDonald. Escape has brought you the second shot. Based on a story by Alexander Juma, specially adapted for radio by Les Crutchfield, starring John Dana, with Vic Peron. Featured in the cast were Ellen Morgan, Ben Wright, Harry Bartel, Jack Crucian and Lou Krugman. Your announcer, George Walsh. The special music for Escape is composed and conducted by Leith Stevens. Next week.

[Cesar Borgia]

You are standing at the entrance of a walled Arab town. While behind you, coming slowly through the night, are the shuffling footsteps of a blind beggar who will lead you into a harrowing world of darkness and terror.

[Lieutenant Daumier]

So listen next week when Escape brings you Kathleen Haight's terrifying story. The return. Your purchase of Easter Seals is your way of extending the only aid there is for the crippled and disabled. Organized hospital, clinical and laboratory campaigns to cure the curable and to lessen the burdens of those who can't be completely well again. Why Easter Seals make your generous contribution a fighting force to expand treatment, research and education. The three weapons of hope and cure for the crippled and disabled in America America listens most to the CBS Radio Network.

[Host]

That's the Relic Radio show for this week. There's more from Screen Directors Playhouse, Escape, this podcast and all of the Relic radio shows@ Relicradio.com. you'll find our shoutcast stream there as well with even more Old time Radio. And if you'd like to help support this and all of that, visit donate relic radio.com or click on one of the support links on the website you make it all possible. Thanks to those who have helped out. Thanks for joining me this week. Be back tomorrow with an hour of mystery on Case Closed and next Tuesday with our next episode of the Relic Radio Show.