In this gripping episode of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, host E.G. Marshall introduces "So Shall Ye Weep," a dramatic adaptation of Sophocles' classic tragedy, "Oedipus the King." Set in the rugged terrain of 1851 New Mexico, the story unfolds in the town of Thebes, where a mysterious plague has taken hold. As the town's mayor, Don Eddie Po Baca, grapples with the crisis, he is drawn into a web of prophecy, murder, and fate. The blind Zuni elder, Teracio, suggests that the plague will only end when the murderer of the former mayor, Don Luis, is brought to justice. As secrets unravel, Eddie Po discovers a haunting connection to the past that threatens to destroy his life and the lives of those he loves.
Listeners are taken on a journey through themes of destiny, identity, and the inescapable grip of fate. The episode explores the tragic consequences of prophecy and the devastating impact of hidden truths. With a stellar cast including Russell Horton and John Beale, and a narrative that weaves ancient Greek tragedy into the fabric of the American frontier, "So Shall Ye Weep" delivers a powerful and emotional experience that resonates with the timeless human struggle against the forces of destiny.
(01:00) Introduction to the Tragic Tale
(03:12) The Plague of Thebes
(06:50) The Prophecy of Tiresio
(14:40) Oedipo's Proclamation
(25:01) The Truth Unveiled
(36:02) The Unraveling of Fate
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/
Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon
Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio
[00:00:01]
Unknown:
You never know where your next unforgettable experience will pop up. That's why bringing along an American Express card opens the door to rewards wherever you go. Morning coffee run with an old friend? Earn cash back. Weekend getaway? Earn miles. Dinner at the hottest restaurant in town? You get the idea. No matter the place or the plan, Amex rewards your inner explorer. Learn about card options at AmericanExpress.com. Terms apply.
[00:00:30] Unknown:
At ADP, we work with more than 860,000 companies worldwide. That gives us a pretty good idea of how to help businesses grow stronger, whether it's through data insights that help you make informed decisions about building a team that works better as a team, or by keeping you ahead of thousands of changing regulations so you can keep ahead of everything else, like building that better team. Grow stronger with ADP, HR talent, time, and payroll.
[00:01:01] Unknown:
CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents I'm EG Marshall. To watch a great and noble person fall from heights because of some very human flaw in his character can relieve us of pent up emotions, soften sometimes our own disturbing problems. The ancient Greeks had a word for it as they did for so many other things. They called it catharsis, a relief, a purging of emotions. Perhaps the story you're about to hear may have that effect on you. Citizens of Thebes, this unknown murderer will be brought to justice. This I promise you. And on his soul, I here invoke this curse.
May he wear out his life in misery in everlasting doom.
[00:02:10] Unknown:
May the good Lord dry up his crops, sicken his cattle, give him no sons or daughters to comfort his old age. May his tongue wither in his mouth, and his eyes lose the clear sight of day. This I wish upon this evil man, this murderer.
[00:02:36] Unknown:
Our mystery drama, so shall ye weep, was adapted from one of the greatest tragedies of all time, Oedipus the King, by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles. It was especially written for the mystery theater by Arnold Moss. It stars Russell Horton and John Beale. It is sponsored in part by Buick Motor Division and True Value Hardware Stores. I'll be back shortly with act one. The year was 1851. The rugged mountain country and wide plains of New Mexico had just become a territory of The United States. For more than three hundred years, it had been the storehouse of Pueblo, Navajo, Zuni, and other old Indian cultures.
Then the earliest gold seeking Spaniards came and added their rich legacy to the land. In the grasslands where huge buffalo herds still thunder, Don Eddie Po Baca, a member of one of New Mexico's first families, is the Alcalde, the mayor of the town of Thebes. Don Edie Poe has summoned his deputy, Don Cristiano, to question him about a matter of the greatest concern to the city. What new developments, if any, are there, Cristiano? We know nothing more today than we knew yesterday. The doctors from the capital, they came? They came. They looked. They helped us not at all down at April. They had no explanation for what's happening? None. Some things, they said, go far beyond the knowledge of their training, of their medicine.
And this is one of them, they told me. And in the town? Enough to break one's heart. Within the marketplace, the people sip the old ones and the children, with garlands of flowers around their necks and heads. They sit facing the cathedral praying that this terror will depart. Their prayers, they go unanswered. A blight has fallen on all fruitful plants. A blight is on the cattle of the fields. A blight is on our women so that they bear no children. And every day black death grows richer despite the lamentations and the prayers.
You must do something edible. The people look to you. The city must be saved from this dread pestilence. You are their strength. If only I could find the means to save it. How many more were there that died today Don Cristiano? Five. Four children. One old woman. I've sent for doctors. They're useless. I've prayed and lighted candles for some guidance for a wise word from God, but I hear nothing. I'm helpless. The strange thing is that outside the limits of the town, everything is flourishing. This plague stops at the borders of our city. It goes no further. How do we explain that?
And most important, what do we do next? We've tried all else. If you'll permit me to suggest Yes. Would you allow me to bring you a person who might come up with a solution? What person, Christiana? Who might that be? You've heard me speak of the old Zuni Indian, Terracio. Terracio? That blind old charlatan, he's a fool. The old man may be blind, but he's no fool. The Zunis are among the oldest tribes in all New Mexico. They know the land better than most. Horatio is the oldest living one among them, more than a hundred years, they say. Though blind, he has a reputation for seeing things no other man can see.
He may know the cause of this dread pestilence and how to end it. I see it as a waste of time, but call him Cristiano if you must. Yes. Let him come. Sit. Sit, old man here. Let me help you. I prefer to stand, my lord, and lean upon my stick. Just as you please. This sickness, this pollution that's descended on our town, it must be driven out. It must be cured. For our great city will be no more than a dead memory in no time at all. True. The city and its people all will perish. Yes. Yes. It can be done. A purifying ritual will do it. What sort of ritual? How shall it be done? Where do we start? At the beginning, my Lord Oedipo. How? You start by banishing a man from this, our city.
By seeing that a murderer is brought to justice, perhaps by even shedding blood for blood. Who is this man you would banish? My lord, before you were the mayor of this city, long before, there was another man who was its leader, a great man all the people loved. His name was Don Luis. Don Luis Charco? The very same. Luis, who was the husband of my present wife, Yocasta? He. But he was killed twenty years ago on a dark night somewhere in the desert. A place called Tres Caminos, a place where three roads met some twenty years ago. I've heard the story many times. That night as he rode home from an unspoken mission, he was pounced upon by an unknown assailant, probably drunk, on his way back from the Fandango or some other kind of party. The The struggle must have followed.
Don Luis was killed. The murderer escaped. Come, come, old man. What has this to do with what we called you for? Since that black night, this murder of Luis, your wife's first husband, remains a mystery unsolved. And you suggest search for Luis's murderer, make him admit his crime, bring him to justice. And when you do, this plague, this dreaded epidemic will be ended. That's your solution? Yes. Good Lord, Oedipo. Oedipo. Oedipo, no. What is that? Payment for your advice. Now go. You toss your silver coins at me. I would not deign to stoop and pick them up even if I had eyes to see the Then let them lie just where they are, you dreaming windbag.
You and your weird riddles, you're an old fool. You know nothing. Oedipo, don't speak to him that way. Oh, you may think, Don Oedipo. The people of Thebes think otherwise. Just one last word. My eyes can't see, but yours, Don Oedipo, are blind still. Before too many days go by, you will learn secrets that will shatter you, destroy your soul completely. With your permission, lords, I take my leave.
[00:10:10] Unknown:
Tona yokasta, you must hold still. Forgive me, Cora. For me to take these long sharp golden pins out of your hair and brush and comb that hair before you go to bed, you must sit still. Of course. I've combed your hair since you were in your teens. You fidget again. You fidget now. Forgive me. Oh, how gloriously the silver in your hair blends with the black. I wish there were less silver and more black. It tells the world that I am no longer young. Don't Edipo says you are young and beautiful.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
I've heard him say so. He just says that to make me think his being years younger than his wife makes little difference to him. It makes no difference.
[00:10:55] Unknown:
Else why would he have married
[00:10:57] Unknown:
you? Perhaps Cora perhaps. Yeah
[00:11:01] Unknown:
now your hair is done look into the glass you look like an angel an angel in her fifties?
[00:11:12] Unknown:
Oh, Cora. I'm so worried for the city and for Edithu. I know.
[00:11:19] Unknown:
The worst is this old Indian. It's Teratio. Tiresio? The blind old Zuni. These evil rumors that he's spreading, that Donnie depots refused to put a stop to the mysterious plague, that it could be ended if he wanted it to end. But that's not true. We know it's not. But the people of the city are not convinced, and Oterasio
[00:11:41] Unknown:
is respected by the people. Forgive me, ladies. I heard what you were saying. It's true. The old man stirring trouble. Why do you let him? With your permission, I will leave you both. Why? Because I have no means to stop him. That's why.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
But let him talk. And yield to all his threats, his so called warnings? I know about them.
[00:12:04] Unknown:
Adapa, we're not back in the dark ages. This is 1851. Don't listen to this nonsense. I know. The murder of Louise so many years ago is a case long closed. The police have given up. The murderer just disappeared into thin air. That is that.
[00:12:21] Unknown:
And yet, of course, there may be something else ears to these absurdities. Editho, there's something you should know. When I was married to Luis, an old fool like this one came one day, performed some silly ritual, and predicted that the time would come. It was Luis's fate, he said, when he would die a victim at the hands of his own son, a son yet to be born to Luis and me. Well, why do you speak of this now? Because Luis heeded all this rubbish just as you do with this. And when our son was born, Luis surrendered to his fears and superstitions, insisted that our newborn son be put to death.
I pleaded with him not to do so in vain. The child was taken from me and was never seen again nor heard of. But what has this to do with us, your pastor? Because of Don Luis's faith in witchcraft, I lost my son. And as it turns out, all was wasted. Oh, unnecessary. Luis did not come to death at his son's hand. That's just the point. He was slain by a drunken bandit all those years ago at Tres Camino's. The place where three roads meet. And that is why I tell you not to listen to this ancient quack teracio. It cannot lead to good.
We'll find some other way to to end this plague.
[00:13:54] Unknown:
I think I begin to see what this may be about. What do you see? Cristiano brought this old mumbler to me, this hundred year old idiot with his prophecies in order Cristiano? It might well be a plot of Cristiano's. He's always envied me. I've never trusted him. Editho, how could you think? Tomorrow morning, I'll announce that at midday, the entire population of the city, those that have thus far survived, will gather in the marketplace. With what in mind? To listen to a proclamation I will make. What will you say? You will be there beside me, dear Yocasta, at the stroke of noon, and so will Cristiano.
[00:14:40] Unknown:
People of Thebes, people of Thebes, if you will hear my words, I beg you listen. Here with my wife beside me and my deputy Cristiano, I tell you, Tiresio is right. A good man died, a man you chose to lead you. I felt for him as I feel now, as if he were my own father. Nothing will be left undone to find his murderer. Though many years have passed, I promise you. And when he's found, he will be brought to justice. People of Thebes, god will decide if we are to prosper or remain in sorrow.
[00:15:25] Unknown:
Oedipo, you've done a very foolish thing. Why?
[00:15:29] Unknown:
No harm can come from what I've said and who can tell? It might even bring us untold good. Am I right, Christiano?
[00:15:37] Unknown:
Let us hope so, Eddy Poe. Let us hope you will have nothing to regret.
[00:15:48] Unknown:
I've heard it said that a curse can be like a stone flung up into the heavens. It doesn't stay there as we all know. And when it returns, there is the possibility then it can fall back on the head of the one who threw it. Yocasta seems to have reservations about Oedipo's good judgment in the choice of words he's spoken in the city square, and trusts no harm will come of them. I shall return shortly with act two. A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country and in his own house. So the scriptures tell us, the blind centenarian, Tericio, has foretold the end of the pestilence that plagues the town of thieves in the New Mexico of 1851.
That will happen, he says, when the name of a man guilty of a twenty year old murder is revealed. How much weight Don Eddie Pobaca, mayor of thieves, gives to this strange prophecy still remains to be seen. Picasso, we've been riding for an hour or more. Aren't you a little tired? Why? Because I'm twenty years older than you? Oh, you silly, beautiful wife. Stop talking nonsense. I thought it might be good to get away from town for just a bit. Of course.
[00:17:15] Unknown:
I'll tie the horses. Edible, may we talk about what happened in the plaza?
[00:17:24] Unknown:
At noon today? Why not?
[00:17:27] Unknown:
Why did you tell the people what you did?
[00:17:29] Unknown:
That old Zuni warrior, Tiresio, is leading all the people to believe that I, in some odd way, was implicated in the murder of Luis. Why should the old man be so anxious to connect you with the murder if that in fact is what he's doing? I could be wrong, your custom. I think this is a plot of Cristiano's to pin his crime on me. Cristiano. My worthy deputy himself. He's always envied everything I've done. You think that Cristiano could do so? Brought old Tiresio in to see me, threaten me. Cristiano. Who brought the doctors from the capital, the eminent doctors incapable of finding any cause or any cure to all our troubles? Cristiano. No, my dear Yocasta. I don't trust him.
What's more tonight, when we return, it's my intention to have a little talk with good, dumb Cristiano.
[00:18:25] Unknown:
Just the two of us.
[00:18:32] Unknown:
Christiano, I say that you know more about the murder of Luis than you are speaking. I also say that you will stop at nothing to get possession of my high office. You have wronged me, Cristiano. Now is my meaning clear to you? You're calling me a traitor. To me and to our city. I can't believe this. Can you be in your right mind to accuse me in this fashion? Cristiano. I'm happy serving you, serving the city the best that I know how. And so it is with everyone who's learned some wisdom and some self control. What is the point? That I am no traitor. If you discover that I have laid a plot of any kind against you, not only will I then resign my present office, I will leave my native thieves forever under my own power.
To throw away an old and honest friend as you were doing is to throw your life away. Cristiano, I have listened to you, and yet you convince me not one single bit. So what would you like to do? Banish me from Thebes? Proclaim to everyone that I've betrayed you? Or end this double game you play forever. Put down that pistol, Editho. You've lost your mind. Put it down. I I beg you. It's I who rule in thieves. You, you never will. Please put away that.
[00:19:56] Unknown:
Here you two are. And Quarly, Are you not ashamed to take the time to speak whatever private grief you have when our poor city's dying bit by bit? The contagion of death spreads by the hour and you two argue? Please leave Cristiano. It's late. Go to your bed. And you too, Edebel. I'll go,
[00:20:21] Unknown:
but with one last word. Edebel, if I've been guilty of one iota of the charges you've made, I call upon the heavens to curse me and take away my life this very moment. I bid you both good night.
[00:20:40] Unknown:
I think you were wrong. Cristiano is an honest man. I'm sure. We'll see. If he'd had anything to do with what happened on that ghastly night at Tres Caminos, he'd have given himself away long ago. Why do you keep calling it the, the thing at Tres Comynos? The ghastly night at Tres Comynos? What should I call it? That's where it happened where Don Luis, my husband, was savagely attacked and slaughtered. For twenty years have passed, and you, my dear one, have helped me to a beautiful new life. You can't expect me to forget completely, can you? Then I must tell you something, Something I could tell to no one but you. You, my my wife.
[00:21:29] Unknown:
Something I have never spoken of before to anyone.
[00:21:33] Unknown:
What is it that disturbs you so? Yocasta,
[00:21:37] Unknown:
I killed the man. For eighteen, nineteen years since that day, since I was born, I was a happy child sharing my parents' home, my parents' love. There never was a kinder father than Pablo Barker. May his days be long. No gentler, sweeter mother than Dona Marta. So I have heard. One night at dinner, it was the night of Christmas, some guest who had drunk more wine than he could handle cast doubts upon the legitimacy of my birth, called me an unspeakable name, all as he supposed in jest. Though furious, I I held my temper and let let it pass.
[00:22:19] Unknown:
But that night
[00:22:22] Unknown:
I had a dream an ugly torturing dream that I was doomed to be the murder of my own father that and something else. And what was that? Oh, it was so terrible. I I still can't find the tongue to speak it especially to you, my wife. Oh, my poor, poor Edithole. I wake up from my dream that night screaming, drenched in my own sweat. I I dressed, knotted my pony, and fled, not knowing to what place I was headed. I rode for hours, so I think, anywhere to get away from my dream, from what I thought I might be fated for. Then, suddenly, on this darkest night, I I came upon a man who challenged me right of way.
Drunk with my fear, emboldened by my youth, I struck this man who pushed me, drew my pistol, and you shot him, killed him on the spot. And as I rode away, I saw the signpost that identified the place. And what it read was, Tres Camino, the place where three roads meet. Oh, my dearest Edible.
[00:23:45] Unknown:
Oh, my darling. For the first time, I understand why you're always so upset at mention of that place. What you did there was an enormous sin taking a man's life. May God forgive you. But the fact that you have killed a man and that my first husband lost his life at the same place is no more than a most unhappy fate. What do you call it? A a coincidence. One thing has no connection with the other.
[00:24:17] Unknown:
That's what I've always told myself.
[00:24:19] Unknown:
Besides, your dream is meaningless. Your father, Pablo, is alive and well. As for the other thing, whatever it may be, the thing you dreamed of, you must forget to wound yourself with shapeless images that have no basis in reality. That makes no sense.
[00:24:42] Unknown:
You're right, of course. Now
[00:24:46] Unknown:
get some rest. And in the morning, we'll find some way to end this pestilence that's poisoning our city.
[00:25:01] Unknown:
Another cup of chocolate, Senor Alcalde. No. Thank you, Cora. I've had enough. You've finished with your breakfast then, Senor? Almost. Then I must tell you, that blind old man's outside again. Request the deed demands to see you. Mhmm. Tiresio. Since break of dawn, he's been waiting at our gates.
[00:25:25] Unknown:
Please show him in. I can think of better ways to start a morning. My lord, I had to see you. Come in, old man. With what new anger have you come to punish me? My great grandson, Jose, a little boy of five, He died this morning in my arms choking for more breath. Oh, my heart is heavy for your sorrow. This plague that curses our good city must be ended once and for all. Just tell me how. With sorcery like yours, with incantations. I've planted prayer sticks up on top of Thunder Mountain where Zunis go in times of trouble. I have pleaded with the spirits, but they close their ears to me.
Now it is up to you, Don Editho. Jose's death is on your head. You listen to me, my ancient one. Even if I believe that naming the assassin of Luis could dissipate this death that settled on our city, I have not the slightest clue to his identity. Where after twenty years does one begin? He may be dead by now. I know that he is alive. This murderer, he is here among us. Here in Thebes? In Thebes. Where is he then? Give me his name, Teresio. It were better if the man came forth of his own free will, confessed his crime from his own heart. If you know this wretch's name and you refuse to speak it, you're as guilty of prolonging this curse upon our city as you say I am. Not quite. Here, I turn you around.
Here is the door you entered by. Here is the door from which you will depart. Leave out of my house at once. Before I go, I put this in your hand. What is it? A small memento of a time long past, a little amulet of turquoise. I found it once upon a mountaintop. I have still one more gift for you. I go to get it. I return till soon. I wish you a good morning, Lord.
[00:27:56] Unknown:
Oh, I'm sorry.
[00:27:57] Unknown:
I had no way of knowing you at the door. Good morning to you, old woman. I came to get your breakfast dishes. Oh, yes. Yes. Take them. Old woman indeed.
[00:28:09] Unknown:
Is he still threatening you, Donnie Eddie Poe? I don't pay him all that much attention.
[00:28:15] Unknown:
Donnie Eddie Poe?
[00:28:17] Unknown:
If I may ask, what is that you're holding in your hand?
[00:28:22] Unknown:
Oh, he he gave it to me. Yeah. I see it. Yes. It's a protective charm of some sort. The Zunis use it as a means to ward off evil. You've seen this sort of thing before, I'm sure. Here. Take it.
[00:28:37] Unknown:
Oh, no. Oh, no. This cannot be. Oh, Oedipal. Unhappy. Oedipal.
[00:28:46] Unknown:
What is it? Call her. Tell me. What's wrong? It
[00:28:51] Unknown:
looks identical to one I held here in my hand some forty years ago. This king of beads, there just could not be two of them.
[00:29:04] Unknown:
Did he see where he got it? He didn't. But, when he returns, I'll ask him. I'm not really sure.
[00:29:12] Unknown:
I want to know. Why not? There are some questions that should never have an answer. This Don Eddie Paul may be one of them.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
What questions are there that can or should not have an answer? Oftentimes, in the words of William Shakespeare, the instruments of darkness tell us truths to betray us in deepest consequence. Some dark and secret truth seems to be hidden in a little string of beads. What fears are there that those beads generate, and why does Cora hesitate to speak? I'll be back shortly with act three. Destiny has two ways of crushing us, sometimes by refusing us the things we dream, and sometimes by fulfilling them. Eddy Pohbaka has been pursued all his adult life by a terrifying dream he wants desperately not to come true.
As he handles a string of curious Indian beads, he fights against believing that a man's destiny is never in the hands of the man himself. It's no more than a string of sky blue colored beads. Why should upset you sell your costume? Because I had one like it, one. But there must be dozens like this one. No, Edithal. I'd not forget it. Please believe me. And if it were the one that you had forty years ago, you should be overjoyed to find it once again?
[00:31:05] Unknown:
Maybe. And maybe not. Enter. You're Alcalde. I send you with your permission. What is it Cora? Why are you in tears? I bring heartbreaking news for you my lord. What news? A messenger arrived from what was once home for you. The news is Cora, what is it? Your father. My dear lord is in his grave? And this you say?
[00:31:41] Unknown:
Dolpablo
[00:31:42] Unknown:
Parker your dear father he is dead by treachery or by sickness how? The messenger he said small things within old bodies to their sleep. He died of sickness then. And of old age. The long years he had measured sickness. Sickness. Oh. Editho, why do you laugh? I can't believe it. The prophecy, the the evil dream that I once had, the dream that has been filling me with fear all my grown life was meaningless. What dream? That I would kill my father. That murder of my own father was my fate. Cora. Fear. Oh, you bring welcome news, old comfortable Cora.
My father is dead hidden deep in the earth of natural causes. And that other portion of the dream, the part you would not speak of? It will prove us worthless. Oh, I rejoice to hear your news, dear Connor. Then it is on top of everything. Today she goes back again. Oh, let the old goat come in. I have no fear of him or any man. This way, old man.
[00:32:52] Unknown:
Here, let me lead you. My good lord, I've brought you this just as I promised. What is it? A little gift. It goes with the blue amulet I gave your husband. An old Neverho blanket, torn and faded by the sun and rain. It's yours, Don Eddy Poe. Why his what would I want with it? Why do you give me this? And and and for that matter, why that amulet? They both may help you find that truth which we were speaking of. Truth. In a rag of a blanket and a string of beads. I have no time to listen to such nonsense. Why have you brought these things old man?
[00:33:35] Unknown:
Where did they come from?
[00:33:37] Unknown:
Some 40 ago, walking atop Mount Lagrimas, I came upon a newborn infant, three or four days old, abandoned by its parents, wrapped in another whole blanket. This this blanket. The child was close to death, too weak even to cry. This blanket I picked up the child, carried it in my arms to the hacienda of Don Pablo and of Dona Marta. They were childless. They'd befriended me. They kept the baby, raised it as if it were their very own. Oh, no. Don Pablo. My parents did this? They did. A fascinating tale. And and this is your truth.
It is. What has this story got to do with me? Or if you please with the murder of Luis Atroyz Camino. Don Eddie Poe. You were that infant wrapped in this very blanket. The turquoise amulet was around your neck. No. That cannot be. Pablo and Marta were never your true parents. You horrible old man.
[00:35:01] Unknown:
Who then were my parents? Tell me that. No! Cora! No! Be still? Say nothing? What is it? Cora. Cora? Help me to my room. Yes. And you're oh really? God give you help. God keep you from the knowledge that will bring unending grief and tear your soul into a thousand pieces.
[00:35:33] Unknown:
I hope you will consider this most serious. What is it? Please read it. And, very distinguished and most honorable Sir Don Eddie Willbacher, mayor of Cristiano. This is your resignation as my deputy. It's what you wanted. I beg you to accept it. No, Cristiano. I cannot listen to me. I'm I'm almost at the end of a long tether. I'm reaching now for straws. First, this cruel pestilence that's turning thieves into a city of the dead. Then the old fool, Delacio, who heaven helped me, may be something less than a fool. And finally, something's arisen out of a hideous past which may well turn the future into a sharp dagger that will rip my life to shreds. I need you, Cristiano.
I I apologize. I think I understand. How may I be of service to you, Oedipo, my friend? What's that?
[00:36:40] Unknown:
Who who's sobbing? Excuse But you might learn the truth to a little. With your permission, Eddy Paul, I'll leave.
[00:37:02] Unknown:
What is this truth you speak of? Will you stop blubbering old woman? Speak.
[00:37:10] Unknown:
You know I served your custard all these years for the time she was still a little girl. Yes, yes I know. I put my life down if she asked me to. I know that too. You you do. She had a child by her first husband that, during Luis, fearing the prediction some soothsayer had made. Yes. The child was placed atop a mountain there to die. These my hands cradling the infant boy with the same hands that placed him on Mount Lautomat, wrapped in that same blanket over there, that same turquoise amulet around its little neck. And what Terracio told me true.
All true. He found the child, gave it to Don Pablo for adoption and that child, my lord, was you. Then if that is so Then your cast had asked me to give you this. What is it? The official report, she said, of Don Luis's murder signed by the police.
[00:38:17] Unknown:
She bids you read it. As
[00:38:20] Unknown:
Don Luis Charco, mayor of Sieves, approached the place that's known as Tres Cominos on Christmas night in the year of our lord '80 Christmas night. The same night that I left my home. The night I dreamed that I would kill my father.
[00:38:38] Unknown:
The night I killed a man at Trescamino's spent. That man was my father.
[00:38:47] Unknown:
Oh
[00:38:49] Unknown:
light of the sun let me look no more upon you after today. Oh you poor poor man. Because my dear lady oh unhappy woman that I am from my marriage bed I come that bed of sorrow where unknowing I have brought misery and pain upon this house.
[00:39:17] Unknown:
Go back into your room, Yocasta. Rest.
[00:39:23] Unknown:
There is no rest for me. Never again will I know peace. Never again the luxury of happiness. Allow me, my lady. Let me take you to your room. No. Stay here, Cora. I only came to look once more on his face. I know the way. I need no help. And the rest of my dream. It too heaven filling me has proved to be the truth. My own mother has been my mother and my bride. It sounded like a shot.
[00:40:12] Unknown:
A shot. Derezio was right. The murder of Luis was always here in Thebes. Unknowing and unknown. But now
[00:40:26] Unknown:
Cristiano. Why do you carry Ilkosta in your arms? Ilkosta's
[00:40:30] Unknown:
dead. She shot herself. Oh. Hettypo, most wretched man in all the world. What are you doing? Let me take those long sharp pins with which your Custer that you would bind your hair in place already before. Oh, my god.
[00:40:50] Unknown:
The god is on you, Eddie Poe.
[00:40:59] Unknown:
Now what can I see to love?
[00:41:03] Unknown:
Now what good can I look forward to? How many people stop your eyes are spayed with blood? Darkness. Darkness. Horror of darkness. I was blind when I could see. Madness and stabbing pain and memory of evil deeds I've done. He's put out his eyes. Go, Cora. Quickly bring some help. Stay here both of you. I am beyond all help. Let me go away. I whom God despises above all men on earth. My word of edibles.
[00:41:52] Unknown:
He disappeared in the middle of the night
[00:41:56] Unknown:
tapping his way to only the good Lord knows where. No man in this whole city did not envy Oedipal. And now he's swallowed in the deepest sea of black misfortune. Counts no mortal happy, Cora, till he's passed the final limit of his life, secure from pain. To raise you, old man. What is it? Who is it that he's speaking? Cristiano. The best of news, Don Cristiano. On this black day, what news is there that can be good? The children of the town are singing. The cattle romp in play across the fields. The people of Thebes have left their beds of misery and pain.
The pestilence has ended, Cristiano. The plague is over. There are those who believe that the strings of the puppets that all men and women are are manipulated by unseen hands above us. Do what we will. We are no more than wooden instruments that dangle from our cords held by the master puppeteer called fate. I'll return shortly. 2,400 ago, when the plays of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides were first presented on the stages of Athens in ancient Greece, the playwrights would receive, so tradition tells us, a live goat as payment for the dramatic efforts. The word in ancient Greek for goat was.
This followed by the word for song gave us. It's goat song or tragedy. Our cast included Russell Wharton, John Beale, Terry Keen, Anne Petoniette, and Arnold Moss. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. This is E. G. Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time. Pleasant dreams.
You never know where your next unforgettable experience will pop up. That's why bringing along an American Express card opens the door to rewards wherever you go. Morning coffee run with an old friend? Earn cash back. Weekend getaway? Earn miles. Dinner at the hottest restaurant in town? You get the idea. No matter the place or the plan, Amex rewards your inner explorer. Learn about card options at AmericanExpress.com. Terms apply.
[00:00:30] Unknown:
At ADP, we work with more than 860,000 companies worldwide. That gives us a pretty good idea of how to help businesses grow stronger, whether it's through data insights that help you make informed decisions about building a team that works better as a team, or by keeping you ahead of thousands of changing regulations so you can keep ahead of everything else, like building that better team. Grow stronger with ADP, HR talent, time, and payroll.
[00:01:01] Unknown:
CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents I'm EG Marshall. To watch a great and noble person fall from heights because of some very human flaw in his character can relieve us of pent up emotions, soften sometimes our own disturbing problems. The ancient Greeks had a word for it as they did for so many other things. They called it catharsis, a relief, a purging of emotions. Perhaps the story you're about to hear may have that effect on you. Citizens of Thebes, this unknown murderer will be brought to justice. This I promise you. And on his soul, I here invoke this curse.
May he wear out his life in misery in everlasting doom.
[00:02:10] Unknown:
May the good Lord dry up his crops, sicken his cattle, give him no sons or daughters to comfort his old age. May his tongue wither in his mouth, and his eyes lose the clear sight of day. This I wish upon this evil man, this murderer.
[00:02:36] Unknown:
Our mystery drama, so shall ye weep, was adapted from one of the greatest tragedies of all time, Oedipus the King, by the ancient Greek playwright Sophocles. It was especially written for the mystery theater by Arnold Moss. It stars Russell Horton and John Beale. It is sponsored in part by Buick Motor Division and True Value Hardware Stores. I'll be back shortly with act one. The year was 1851. The rugged mountain country and wide plains of New Mexico had just become a territory of The United States. For more than three hundred years, it had been the storehouse of Pueblo, Navajo, Zuni, and other old Indian cultures.
Then the earliest gold seeking Spaniards came and added their rich legacy to the land. In the grasslands where huge buffalo herds still thunder, Don Eddie Po Baca, a member of one of New Mexico's first families, is the Alcalde, the mayor of the town of Thebes. Don Edie Poe has summoned his deputy, Don Cristiano, to question him about a matter of the greatest concern to the city. What new developments, if any, are there, Cristiano? We know nothing more today than we knew yesterday. The doctors from the capital, they came? They came. They looked. They helped us not at all down at April. They had no explanation for what's happening? None. Some things, they said, go far beyond the knowledge of their training, of their medicine.
And this is one of them, they told me. And in the town? Enough to break one's heart. Within the marketplace, the people sip the old ones and the children, with garlands of flowers around their necks and heads. They sit facing the cathedral praying that this terror will depart. Their prayers, they go unanswered. A blight has fallen on all fruitful plants. A blight is on the cattle of the fields. A blight is on our women so that they bear no children. And every day black death grows richer despite the lamentations and the prayers.
You must do something edible. The people look to you. The city must be saved from this dread pestilence. You are their strength. If only I could find the means to save it. How many more were there that died today Don Cristiano? Five. Four children. One old woman. I've sent for doctors. They're useless. I've prayed and lighted candles for some guidance for a wise word from God, but I hear nothing. I'm helpless. The strange thing is that outside the limits of the town, everything is flourishing. This plague stops at the borders of our city. It goes no further. How do we explain that?
And most important, what do we do next? We've tried all else. If you'll permit me to suggest Yes. Would you allow me to bring you a person who might come up with a solution? What person, Christiana? Who might that be? You've heard me speak of the old Zuni Indian, Terracio. Terracio? That blind old charlatan, he's a fool. The old man may be blind, but he's no fool. The Zunis are among the oldest tribes in all New Mexico. They know the land better than most. Horatio is the oldest living one among them, more than a hundred years, they say. Though blind, he has a reputation for seeing things no other man can see.
He may know the cause of this dread pestilence and how to end it. I see it as a waste of time, but call him Cristiano if you must. Yes. Let him come. Sit. Sit, old man here. Let me help you. I prefer to stand, my lord, and lean upon my stick. Just as you please. This sickness, this pollution that's descended on our town, it must be driven out. It must be cured. For our great city will be no more than a dead memory in no time at all. True. The city and its people all will perish. Yes. Yes. It can be done. A purifying ritual will do it. What sort of ritual? How shall it be done? Where do we start? At the beginning, my Lord Oedipo. How? You start by banishing a man from this, our city.
By seeing that a murderer is brought to justice, perhaps by even shedding blood for blood. Who is this man you would banish? My lord, before you were the mayor of this city, long before, there was another man who was its leader, a great man all the people loved. His name was Don Luis. Don Luis Charco? The very same. Luis, who was the husband of my present wife, Yocasta? He. But he was killed twenty years ago on a dark night somewhere in the desert. A place called Tres Caminos, a place where three roads met some twenty years ago. I've heard the story many times. That night as he rode home from an unspoken mission, he was pounced upon by an unknown assailant, probably drunk, on his way back from the Fandango or some other kind of party. The The struggle must have followed.
Don Luis was killed. The murderer escaped. Come, come, old man. What has this to do with what we called you for? Since that black night, this murder of Luis, your wife's first husband, remains a mystery unsolved. And you suggest search for Luis's murderer, make him admit his crime, bring him to justice. And when you do, this plague, this dreaded epidemic will be ended. That's your solution? Yes. Good Lord, Oedipo. Oedipo. Oedipo, no. What is that? Payment for your advice. Now go. You toss your silver coins at me. I would not deign to stoop and pick them up even if I had eyes to see the Then let them lie just where they are, you dreaming windbag.
You and your weird riddles, you're an old fool. You know nothing. Oedipo, don't speak to him that way. Oh, you may think, Don Oedipo. The people of Thebes think otherwise. Just one last word. My eyes can't see, but yours, Don Oedipo, are blind still. Before too many days go by, you will learn secrets that will shatter you, destroy your soul completely. With your permission, lords, I take my leave.
[00:10:10] Unknown:
Tona yokasta, you must hold still. Forgive me, Cora. For me to take these long sharp golden pins out of your hair and brush and comb that hair before you go to bed, you must sit still. Of course. I've combed your hair since you were in your teens. You fidget again. You fidget now. Forgive me. Oh, how gloriously the silver in your hair blends with the black. I wish there were less silver and more black. It tells the world that I am no longer young. Don't Edipo says you are young and beautiful.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
I've heard him say so. He just says that to make me think his being years younger than his wife makes little difference to him. It makes no difference.
[00:10:55] Unknown:
Else why would he have married
[00:10:57] Unknown:
you? Perhaps Cora perhaps. Yeah
[00:11:01] Unknown:
now your hair is done look into the glass you look like an angel an angel in her fifties?
[00:11:12] Unknown:
Oh, Cora. I'm so worried for the city and for Edithu. I know.
[00:11:19] Unknown:
The worst is this old Indian. It's Teratio. Tiresio? The blind old Zuni. These evil rumors that he's spreading, that Donnie depots refused to put a stop to the mysterious plague, that it could be ended if he wanted it to end. But that's not true. We know it's not. But the people of the city are not convinced, and Oterasio
[00:11:41] Unknown:
is respected by the people. Forgive me, ladies. I heard what you were saying. It's true. The old man stirring trouble. Why do you let him? With your permission, I will leave you both. Why? Because I have no means to stop him. That's why.
[00:11:57] Unknown:
But let him talk. And yield to all his threats, his so called warnings? I know about them.
[00:12:04] Unknown:
Adapa, we're not back in the dark ages. This is 1851. Don't listen to this nonsense. I know. The murder of Louise so many years ago is a case long closed. The police have given up. The murderer just disappeared into thin air. That is that.
[00:12:21] Unknown:
And yet, of course, there may be something else ears to these absurdities. Editho, there's something you should know. When I was married to Luis, an old fool like this one came one day, performed some silly ritual, and predicted that the time would come. It was Luis's fate, he said, when he would die a victim at the hands of his own son, a son yet to be born to Luis and me. Well, why do you speak of this now? Because Luis heeded all this rubbish just as you do with this. And when our son was born, Luis surrendered to his fears and superstitions, insisted that our newborn son be put to death.
I pleaded with him not to do so in vain. The child was taken from me and was never seen again nor heard of. But what has this to do with us, your pastor? Because of Don Luis's faith in witchcraft, I lost my son. And as it turns out, all was wasted. Oh, unnecessary. Luis did not come to death at his son's hand. That's just the point. He was slain by a drunken bandit all those years ago at Tres Camino's. The place where three roads meet. And that is why I tell you not to listen to this ancient quack teracio. It cannot lead to good.
We'll find some other way to to end this plague.
[00:13:54] Unknown:
I think I begin to see what this may be about. What do you see? Cristiano brought this old mumbler to me, this hundred year old idiot with his prophecies in order Cristiano? It might well be a plot of Cristiano's. He's always envied me. I've never trusted him. Editho, how could you think? Tomorrow morning, I'll announce that at midday, the entire population of the city, those that have thus far survived, will gather in the marketplace. With what in mind? To listen to a proclamation I will make. What will you say? You will be there beside me, dear Yocasta, at the stroke of noon, and so will Cristiano.
[00:14:40] Unknown:
People of Thebes, people of Thebes, if you will hear my words, I beg you listen. Here with my wife beside me and my deputy Cristiano, I tell you, Tiresio is right. A good man died, a man you chose to lead you. I felt for him as I feel now, as if he were my own father. Nothing will be left undone to find his murderer. Though many years have passed, I promise you. And when he's found, he will be brought to justice. People of Thebes, god will decide if we are to prosper or remain in sorrow.
[00:15:25] Unknown:
Oedipo, you've done a very foolish thing. Why?
[00:15:29] Unknown:
No harm can come from what I've said and who can tell? It might even bring us untold good. Am I right, Christiano?
[00:15:37] Unknown:
Let us hope so, Eddy Poe. Let us hope you will have nothing to regret.
[00:15:48] Unknown:
I've heard it said that a curse can be like a stone flung up into the heavens. It doesn't stay there as we all know. And when it returns, there is the possibility then it can fall back on the head of the one who threw it. Yocasta seems to have reservations about Oedipo's good judgment in the choice of words he's spoken in the city square, and trusts no harm will come of them. I shall return shortly with act two. A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country and in his own house. So the scriptures tell us, the blind centenarian, Tericio, has foretold the end of the pestilence that plagues the town of thieves in the New Mexico of 1851.
That will happen, he says, when the name of a man guilty of a twenty year old murder is revealed. How much weight Don Eddie Pobaca, mayor of thieves, gives to this strange prophecy still remains to be seen. Picasso, we've been riding for an hour or more. Aren't you a little tired? Why? Because I'm twenty years older than you? Oh, you silly, beautiful wife. Stop talking nonsense. I thought it might be good to get away from town for just a bit. Of course.
[00:17:15] Unknown:
I'll tie the horses. Edible, may we talk about what happened in the plaza?
[00:17:24] Unknown:
At noon today? Why not?
[00:17:27] Unknown:
Why did you tell the people what you did?
[00:17:29] Unknown:
That old Zuni warrior, Tiresio, is leading all the people to believe that I, in some odd way, was implicated in the murder of Luis. Why should the old man be so anxious to connect you with the murder if that in fact is what he's doing? I could be wrong, your custom. I think this is a plot of Cristiano's to pin his crime on me. Cristiano. My worthy deputy himself. He's always envied everything I've done. You think that Cristiano could do so? Brought old Tiresio in to see me, threaten me. Cristiano. Who brought the doctors from the capital, the eminent doctors incapable of finding any cause or any cure to all our troubles? Cristiano. No, my dear Yocasta. I don't trust him.
What's more tonight, when we return, it's my intention to have a little talk with good, dumb Cristiano.
[00:18:25] Unknown:
Just the two of us.
[00:18:32] Unknown:
Christiano, I say that you know more about the murder of Luis than you are speaking. I also say that you will stop at nothing to get possession of my high office. You have wronged me, Cristiano. Now is my meaning clear to you? You're calling me a traitor. To me and to our city. I can't believe this. Can you be in your right mind to accuse me in this fashion? Cristiano. I'm happy serving you, serving the city the best that I know how. And so it is with everyone who's learned some wisdom and some self control. What is the point? That I am no traitor. If you discover that I have laid a plot of any kind against you, not only will I then resign my present office, I will leave my native thieves forever under my own power.
To throw away an old and honest friend as you were doing is to throw your life away. Cristiano, I have listened to you, and yet you convince me not one single bit. So what would you like to do? Banish me from Thebes? Proclaim to everyone that I've betrayed you? Or end this double game you play forever. Put down that pistol, Editho. You've lost your mind. Put it down. I I beg you. It's I who rule in thieves. You, you never will. Please put away that.
[00:19:56] Unknown:
Here you two are. And Quarly, Are you not ashamed to take the time to speak whatever private grief you have when our poor city's dying bit by bit? The contagion of death spreads by the hour and you two argue? Please leave Cristiano. It's late. Go to your bed. And you too, Edebel. I'll go,
[00:20:21] Unknown:
but with one last word. Edebel, if I've been guilty of one iota of the charges you've made, I call upon the heavens to curse me and take away my life this very moment. I bid you both good night.
[00:20:40] Unknown:
I think you were wrong. Cristiano is an honest man. I'm sure. We'll see. If he'd had anything to do with what happened on that ghastly night at Tres Caminos, he'd have given himself away long ago. Why do you keep calling it the, the thing at Tres Comynos? The ghastly night at Tres Comynos? What should I call it? That's where it happened where Don Luis, my husband, was savagely attacked and slaughtered. For twenty years have passed, and you, my dear one, have helped me to a beautiful new life. You can't expect me to forget completely, can you? Then I must tell you something, Something I could tell to no one but you. You, my my wife.
[00:21:29] Unknown:
Something I have never spoken of before to anyone.
[00:21:33] Unknown:
What is it that disturbs you so? Yocasta,
[00:21:37] Unknown:
I killed the man. For eighteen, nineteen years since that day, since I was born, I was a happy child sharing my parents' home, my parents' love. There never was a kinder father than Pablo Barker. May his days be long. No gentler, sweeter mother than Dona Marta. So I have heard. One night at dinner, it was the night of Christmas, some guest who had drunk more wine than he could handle cast doubts upon the legitimacy of my birth, called me an unspeakable name, all as he supposed in jest. Though furious, I I held my temper and let let it pass.
[00:22:19] Unknown:
But that night
[00:22:22] Unknown:
I had a dream an ugly torturing dream that I was doomed to be the murder of my own father that and something else. And what was that? Oh, it was so terrible. I I still can't find the tongue to speak it especially to you, my wife. Oh, my poor, poor Edithole. I wake up from my dream that night screaming, drenched in my own sweat. I I dressed, knotted my pony, and fled, not knowing to what place I was headed. I rode for hours, so I think, anywhere to get away from my dream, from what I thought I might be fated for. Then, suddenly, on this darkest night, I I came upon a man who challenged me right of way.
Drunk with my fear, emboldened by my youth, I struck this man who pushed me, drew my pistol, and you shot him, killed him on the spot. And as I rode away, I saw the signpost that identified the place. And what it read was, Tres Camino, the place where three roads meet. Oh, my dearest Edible.
[00:23:45] Unknown:
Oh, my darling. For the first time, I understand why you're always so upset at mention of that place. What you did there was an enormous sin taking a man's life. May God forgive you. But the fact that you have killed a man and that my first husband lost his life at the same place is no more than a most unhappy fate. What do you call it? A a coincidence. One thing has no connection with the other.
[00:24:17] Unknown:
That's what I've always told myself.
[00:24:19] Unknown:
Besides, your dream is meaningless. Your father, Pablo, is alive and well. As for the other thing, whatever it may be, the thing you dreamed of, you must forget to wound yourself with shapeless images that have no basis in reality. That makes no sense.
[00:24:42] Unknown:
You're right, of course. Now
[00:24:46] Unknown:
get some rest. And in the morning, we'll find some way to end this pestilence that's poisoning our city.
[00:25:01] Unknown:
Another cup of chocolate, Senor Alcalde. No. Thank you, Cora. I've had enough. You've finished with your breakfast then, Senor? Almost. Then I must tell you, that blind old man's outside again. Request the deed demands to see you. Mhmm. Tiresio. Since break of dawn, he's been waiting at our gates.
[00:25:25] Unknown:
Please show him in. I can think of better ways to start a morning. My lord, I had to see you. Come in, old man. With what new anger have you come to punish me? My great grandson, Jose, a little boy of five, He died this morning in my arms choking for more breath. Oh, my heart is heavy for your sorrow. This plague that curses our good city must be ended once and for all. Just tell me how. With sorcery like yours, with incantations. I've planted prayer sticks up on top of Thunder Mountain where Zunis go in times of trouble. I have pleaded with the spirits, but they close their ears to me.
Now it is up to you, Don Editho. Jose's death is on your head. You listen to me, my ancient one. Even if I believe that naming the assassin of Luis could dissipate this death that settled on our city, I have not the slightest clue to his identity. Where after twenty years does one begin? He may be dead by now. I know that he is alive. This murderer, he is here among us. Here in Thebes? In Thebes. Where is he then? Give me his name, Teresio. It were better if the man came forth of his own free will, confessed his crime from his own heart. If you know this wretch's name and you refuse to speak it, you're as guilty of prolonging this curse upon our city as you say I am. Not quite. Here, I turn you around.
Here is the door you entered by. Here is the door from which you will depart. Leave out of my house at once. Before I go, I put this in your hand. What is it? A small memento of a time long past, a little amulet of turquoise. I found it once upon a mountaintop. I have still one more gift for you. I go to get it. I return till soon. I wish you a good morning, Lord.
[00:27:56] Unknown:
Oh, I'm sorry.
[00:27:57] Unknown:
I had no way of knowing you at the door. Good morning to you, old woman. I came to get your breakfast dishes. Oh, yes. Yes. Take them. Old woman indeed.
[00:28:09] Unknown:
Is he still threatening you, Donnie Eddie Poe? I don't pay him all that much attention.
[00:28:15] Unknown:
Donnie Eddie Poe?
[00:28:17] Unknown:
If I may ask, what is that you're holding in your hand?
[00:28:22] Unknown:
Oh, he he gave it to me. Yeah. I see it. Yes. It's a protective charm of some sort. The Zunis use it as a means to ward off evil. You've seen this sort of thing before, I'm sure. Here. Take it.
[00:28:37] Unknown:
Oh, no. Oh, no. This cannot be. Oh, Oedipal. Unhappy. Oedipal.
[00:28:46] Unknown:
What is it? Call her. Tell me. What's wrong? It
[00:28:51] Unknown:
looks identical to one I held here in my hand some forty years ago. This king of beads, there just could not be two of them.
[00:29:04] Unknown:
Did he see where he got it? He didn't. But, when he returns, I'll ask him. I'm not really sure.
[00:29:12] Unknown:
I want to know. Why not? There are some questions that should never have an answer. This Don Eddie Paul may be one of them.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
What questions are there that can or should not have an answer? Oftentimes, in the words of William Shakespeare, the instruments of darkness tell us truths to betray us in deepest consequence. Some dark and secret truth seems to be hidden in a little string of beads. What fears are there that those beads generate, and why does Cora hesitate to speak? I'll be back shortly with act three. Destiny has two ways of crushing us, sometimes by refusing us the things we dream, and sometimes by fulfilling them. Eddy Pohbaka has been pursued all his adult life by a terrifying dream he wants desperately not to come true.
As he handles a string of curious Indian beads, he fights against believing that a man's destiny is never in the hands of the man himself. It's no more than a string of sky blue colored beads. Why should upset you sell your costume? Because I had one like it, one. But there must be dozens like this one. No, Edithal. I'd not forget it. Please believe me. And if it were the one that you had forty years ago, you should be overjoyed to find it once again?
[00:31:05] Unknown:
Maybe. And maybe not. Enter. You're Alcalde. I send you with your permission. What is it Cora? Why are you in tears? I bring heartbreaking news for you my lord. What news? A messenger arrived from what was once home for you. The news is Cora, what is it? Your father. My dear lord is in his grave? And this you say?
[00:31:41] Unknown:
Dolpablo
[00:31:42] Unknown:
Parker your dear father he is dead by treachery or by sickness how? The messenger he said small things within old bodies to their sleep. He died of sickness then. And of old age. The long years he had measured sickness. Sickness. Oh. Editho, why do you laugh? I can't believe it. The prophecy, the the evil dream that I once had, the dream that has been filling me with fear all my grown life was meaningless. What dream? That I would kill my father. That murder of my own father was my fate. Cora. Fear. Oh, you bring welcome news, old comfortable Cora.
My father is dead hidden deep in the earth of natural causes. And that other portion of the dream, the part you would not speak of? It will prove us worthless. Oh, I rejoice to hear your news, dear Connor. Then it is on top of everything. Today she goes back again. Oh, let the old goat come in. I have no fear of him or any man. This way, old man.
[00:32:52] Unknown:
Here, let me lead you. My good lord, I've brought you this just as I promised. What is it? A little gift. It goes with the blue amulet I gave your husband. An old Neverho blanket, torn and faded by the sun and rain. It's yours, Don Eddy Poe. Why his what would I want with it? Why do you give me this? And and and for that matter, why that amulet? They both may help you find that truth which we were speaking of. Truth. In a rag of a blanket and a string of beads. I have no time to listen to such nonsense. Why have you brought these things old man?
[00:33:35] Unknown:
Where did they come from?
[00:33:37] Unknown:
Some 40 ago, walking atop Mount Lagrimas, I came upon a newborn infant, three or four days old, abandoned by its parents, wrapped in another whole blanket. This this blanket. The child was close to death, too weak even to cry. This blanket I picked up the child, carried it in my arms to the hacienda of Don Pablo and of Dona Marta. They were childless. They'd befriended me. They kept the baby, raised it as if it were their very own. Oh, no. Don Pablo. My parents did this? They did. A fascinating tale. And and this is your truth.
It is. What has this story got to do with me? Or if you please with the murder of Luis Atroyz Camino. Don Eddie Poe. You were that infant wrapped in this very blanket. The turquoise amulet was around your neck. No. That cannot be. Pablo and Marta were never your true parents. You horrible old man.
[00:35:01] Unknown:
Who then were my parents? Tell me that. No! Cora! No! Be still? Say nothing? What is it? Cora. Cora? Help me to my room. Yes. And you're oh really? God give you help. God keep you from the knowledge that will bring unending grief and tear your soul into a thousand pieces.
[00:35:33] Unknown:
I hope you will consider this most serious. What is it? Please read it. And, very distinguished and most honorable Sir Don Eddie Willbacher, mayor of Cristiano. This is your resignation as my deputy. It's what you wanted. I beg you to accept it. No, Cristiano. I cannot listen to me. I'm I'm almost at the end of a long tether. I'm reaching now for straws. First, this cruel pestilence that's turning thieves into a city of the dead. Then the old fool, Delacio, who heaven helped me, may be something less than a fool. And finally, something's arisen out of a hideous past which may well turn the future into a sharp dagger that will rip my life to shreds. I need you, Cristiano.
I I apologize. I think I understand. How may I be of service to you, Oedipo, my friend? What's that?
[00:36:40] Unknown:
Who who's sobbing? Excuse But you might learn the truth to a little. With your permission, Eddy Paul, I'll leave.
[00:37:02] Unknown:
What is this truth you speak of? Will you stop blubbering old woman? Speak.
[00:37:10] Unknown:
You know I served your custard all these years for the time she was still a little girl. Yes, yes I know. I put my life down if she asked me to. I know that too. You you do. She had a child by her first husband that, during Luis, fearing the prediction some soothsayer had made. Yes. The child was placed atop a mountain there to die. These my hands cradling the infant boy with the same hands that placed him on Mount Lautomat, wrapped in that same blanket over there, that same turquoise amulet around its little neck. And what Terracio told me true.
All true. He found the child, gave it to Don Pablo for adoption and that child, my lord, was you. Then if that is so Then your cast had asked me to give you this. What is it? The official report, she said, of Don Luis's murder signed by the police.
[00:38:17] Unknown:
She bids you read it. As
[00:38:20] Unknown:
Don Luis Charco, mayor of Sieves, approached the place that's known as Tres Cominos on Christmas night in the year of our lord '80 Christmas night. The same night that I left my home. The night I dreamed that I would kill my father.
[00:38:38] Unknown:
The night I killed a man at Trescamino's spent. That man was my father.
[00:38:47] Unknown:
Oh
[00:38:49] Unknown:
light of the sun let me look no more upon you after today. Oh you poor poor man. Because my dear lady oh unhappy woman that I am from my marriage bed I come that bed of sorrow where unknowing I have brought misery and pain upon this house.
[00:39:17] Unknown:
Go back into your room, Yocasta. Rest.
[00:39:23] Unknown:
There is no rest for me. Never again will I know peace. Never again the luxury of happiness. Allow me, my lady. Let me take you to your room. No. Stay here, Cora. I only came to look once more on his face. I know the way. I need no help. And the rest of my dream. It too heaven filling me has proved to be the truth. My own mother has been my mother and my bride. It sounded like a shot.
[00:40:12] Unknown:
A shot. Derezio was right. The murder of Luis was always here in Thebes. Unknowing and unknown. But now
[00:40:26] Unknown:
Cristiano. Why do you carry Ilkosta in your arms? Ilkosta's
[00:40:30] Unknown:
dead. She shot herself. Oh. Hettypo, most wretched man in all the world. What are you doing? Let me take those long sharp pins with which your Custer that you would bind your hair in place already before. Oh, my god.
[00:40:50] Unknown:
The god is on you, Eddie Poe.
[00:40:59] Unknown:
Now what can I see to love?
[00:41:03] Unknown:
Now what good can I look forward to? How many people stop your eyes are spayed with blood? Darkness. Darkness. Horror of darkness. I was blind when I could see. Madness and stabbing pain and memory of evil deeds I've done. He's put out his eyes. Go, Cora. Quickly bring some help. Stay here both of you. I am beyond all help. Let me go away. I whom God despises above all men on earth. My word of edibles.
[00:41:52] Unknown:
He disappeared in the middle of the night
[00:41:56] Unknown:
tapping his way to only the good Lord knows where. No man in this whole city did not envy Oedipal. And now he's swallowed in the deepest sea of black misfortune. Counts no mortal happy, Cora, till he's passed the final limit of his life, secure from pain. To raise you, old man. What is it? Who is it that he's speaking? Cristiano. The best of news, Don Cristiano. On this black day, what news is there that can be good? The children of the town are singing. The cattle romp in play across the fields. The people of Thebes have left their beds of misery and pain.
The pestilence has ended, Cristiano. The plague is over. There are those who believe that the strings of the puppets that all men and women are are manipulated by unseen hands above us. Do what we will. We are no more than wooden instruments that dangle from our cords held by the master puppeteer called fate. I'll return shortly. 2,400 ago, when the plays of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides were first presented on the stages of Athens in ancient Greece, the playwrights would receive, so tradition tells us, a live goat as payment for the dramatic efforts. The word in ancient Greek for goat was.
This followed by the word for song gave us. It's goat song or tragedy. Our cast included Russell Wharton, John Beale, Terry Keen, Anne Petoniette, and Arnold Moss. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. This is E. G. Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time. Pleasant dreams.
