The Relic Radio Show: Episode Summary Title: The Big Story and Escape
Release Date: December 24, 2024
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com

I. The Big Story

Overview: The Big Story transports listeners to the quiet town of Elkhorn, Wisconsin, where young journalism enthusiast Don Morrissey aspires to secure a full-time position at the local newspaper, the Elkhorn Independent. Determined to prove his mettle, Don seeks out a significant story that goes beyond the mundane happenings of a small town. His investigation leads him to uncover a web of deceit involving three suspicious strangers, ultimately linking them to the notorious Duran gang responsible for a high-profile kidnapping in Milwaukee.

Key Plot Points:

1. Don Morrissey's Ambition:

   • Don, a junior journalism student at Marquette University, works part-time for the UP&AP in Elkhorn.
   • He approaches Mr. Merritt, the editor of the Elkhorn Independent, expressing his desire for a full-time position post-graduation.
   • Mr. Merritt challenges Don to find a compelling story that elevates the newspaper beyond local trivialities.

2. Encounter with Sheriff Clayson:

   • Don visits Sheriff Oliver Clayson, seeking insights into potential stories.
   • The sheriff hints at bigger issues beyond Elkhorn by pointing out a headline about the kidnapping of Edward Vaughan, a wealthy Milwaukee brewer.

3. Suspicious Gangsters Arrive:

   • Three men, later identified as members of the Duran gang (Leo Durand, Sam Falco, and Mike Reno), crash their car into a telephone pole in Elkhorn.
   • Claiming to be wealthy fishermen heading to Lake Geneva, their inconsistent stories raise Don's suspicions.

4. Unveiling the Truth:

   • Don's investigation reveals discrepancies in the gangsters' fishing tales, such as the impossibility of catching bluefish in Lake Geneva.
   • A hidden seat cushion containing two guns exposes their criminal intentions.
   • Don contacts the FBI, identifying the men as fugitives linked to the Vaughan kidnapping and other crimes.

5. Resolution and Recognition:

   • The FBI apprehends the gang members, bringing closure to the case.
   • Mr. Merritt praises Don's investigative prowess, offering him the coveted full-time reporter position.
   • Don's dedication not only secures his dream job but also brings national attention to Elkhorn.

Notable Quotes:

• Host Introduction [00:11]:

  "Welcome back to the Relic Radio Show. 60 minutes of radio drama every Tuesday at relicradio.com."

• Mr. Merritt to Don:

  "You'll have to prove yourself. Not just a little brush fire or church social. A good story. You understand?"
  [00:XX]

• Sheriff Clayson:

  "You want a story where there isn't any. You're pressing too hard, Don."
  [00:XX]

• Don Morrissey:

  "There's something about these three men that makes you suspicious, the way they talk and act."
  [00:XX]

• Mr. Merritt:

  "I read you that telegram from Don Morrissey of the Elkhorn, Wisconsin Independent. During trial, one of kidnappers hung himself..."
  [00:XX]

Note: The transcript provided contains limited timestamps. Therefore, specific time attributions for most quotes are approximated and denoted as [00:XX].

II. Escape

Overview: Escape is a riveting radio adaptation of Rudyard Kipling's "The Man Who Would Be King," narrating the ambitious quest of two adventurers, Daniel Dravot and Peachy Carnahan. Their journey from disgruntled veterans to self-proclaimed kings in the uncharted region of Kafiristan unfolds with themes of power, deception, and the fragile nature of authority.

Key Plot Points:

1. The Grand Ambition:

   • Daniel Dravot and Peachy Carnahan, dissatisfied with mundane lives, devise a plan to become kings in Kafiristan.
   • They convince a local newsman to assist them, leveraging his knowledge of maps to navigate the treacherous terrain.

2. Establishing Kingship:

   • Upon reaching Kafiristan, they utilize their charm and fabricated credentials to gain the trust of the tribespeople.
   • The two are crowned as kings, with Daniel wearing a golden crown, symbolizing their newfound authority.

3. Consolidation of Power:

   • Over three years, Daniel and Peachy train the locals, introduce elements of Freemasonry, and seek to build a lasting kingdom.
   • Daniel's infatuation with a local woman, Maruma, breaches their initial pact of celibacy, causing tension.

4. The Downfall:

   • Maruma confronts Daniel, leading to a catastrophic revelation that shatters their divine image.
   • The tribespeople, feeling betrayed and deceived, revolt against the impostors.
   • Daniel is brutally killed, while Peachy barely escapes, left to grapple with the consequences of their hubris.

5. Aftermath:

   • Peachy returns to his former life, haunted by Daniel's demise and the golden crown, symbolizing the lasting impact of their failed kingship.

Notable Quotes:

• Daniel Dravot:

  "We shall be kings. Kings in our own divine right."
  [00:XX]

• Peachy Carnahan:

  "Why are you crawling on your knees? You are a God."
  [00:XX]

• Maruma:

  "Allah protects me. Mad is right."
  [00:XX]

• Daniel Dravot:

  "We're going to be proper kings. We got them going and coming."
  [00:XX]

• Final Reflection:

  "I sat there and stared at the bundle he had left lying on my desk. Stared as the pale shafts of dawn struck fire in the red beard."
  [00:XX]

Note: Similar to The Big Story, the Escape segment lacks detailed timestamps, resulting in generalized time attributions marked as [00:XX].

Conclusion

This episode of The Relic Radio Show masterfully intertwines a gripping true-crime narrative with a timeless adventure drama. The Big Story highlights the relentless pursuit of truth and integrity in journalism, showcasing how dedication can lead to unraveling significant criminal activities. Conversely, Escape serves as a cautionary tale about ambition and deception, illustrating the perils of overreaching and the fine line between leadership and tyranny.

Listeners are treated to rich storytelling, immersive dialogues, and moral lessons that resonate beyond the golden age of radio. The inclusion of notable quotes, even with limited timestamps, enhances the engagement, offering memorable lines that capture the essence of each story.

For enthusiasts of old-time radio and compelling narratives, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of well-crafted audio dramas.

Supporting the Show: For more episodes like The Big Story and Escape, visit RelicRadio.com. Support the show by donating through the website to help continue bringing timeless stories to life.