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In this thrilling episode of the CBS Radio Mystery Theater, host EG Marshall invites listeners to a carnival filled with suspense, mystery, and dark secrets. The story unfolds at Prince's Carnival outside Saint Louis, where the disappearance of Otto Kramer's daughter, Erica, three years ago, sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation. Erica, who has been living as a tattooed princess in the carnival, returns to rescue her sister, Catherine, from their tyrannical father. The episode explores themes of family loyalty, rebellion, and the struggle for freedom against oppressive control.
As the plot thickens, Otto Kramer discovers Erica's whereabouts and confronts her at the carnival. The tension escalates as Erica reveals her plan to save Catherine from their father's clutches. With the help of her fiancé, Jodie Prince, Erica orchestrates a daring escape for Catherine, culminating in a dramatic showdown that tests the limits of family bonds and personal courage. This suspenseful tale, "Tattooed for Murder," written by Nancy Moore, captivates listeners with its intricate narrative and emotional depth.
(00:52) Welcome to the Carnival of Mystery
(05:13) The Disappearance of Erica Kramer
(11:03) A Sister's Return and a Plan to Escape
(20:21) Confrontation at the Carnival
(31:00) A Daring Rescue Plan
(38:38) The Final Showdown
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/
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
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Unknown:
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From the Spain of legend, Mystala is here. Mistala, the light natural rose wine created in Spain to capture a legendary flavor. Mistala imported rose, born of vines
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The CBS Radio Mystery Theater
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presents
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Come in. Welcome. I'm EG Marshall. Right this way, folks. Hurry hurry hurry. Step right up. Yes. Welcome this night to a carnival, to the razzle dazzle clash of color and sound, hiding hate and evil and murder.
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Right this way, the Freak Show, ladies and gentlemen. See nature's mistakes. Step right up.
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It's opening night at Prince's Carnival outside Saint Louis, but no fortune teller sees in cards or crystal ball the dark events that will happen here. I loathe
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everything you are. The sight of you sickens me. I'll I'll You know what?
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Beat me? Break me? Yes. Try it. Every man in the carny knows you're here, knows what you are. Giant, strong man, grips, barkers, they're all standing by. If I call, they'll tear you apart. Oh, give me reason to call. I'd love it. Go on. Hit.
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Our suspense drama Tattooed for Murder was written especially for the mystery theater by Nancy Moore and stars Terry Keane and Stefan Schnabel. It is sponsored in part by Anheuser Busch Incorporated, brewers of Budweiser, and Buick Motor Division. I'll be back shortly with act one.
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There's nothing wrong with drinking Budweiser sip by sip. Is there? Well, the brewers of Budweiser think there's a better way. Sipping's fine if you're drinking wine, but Bud is the king of beers, a hearty drink. Look. Rinse a 10 or 12 ounce glass with cold water. Then open a can or bottle of Bud and pour it right down the middle so it kicks up a good head of foam. Now take a a big drink and then swallow big. No sips. That's how it should be done. More taste, more beer drinking enjoyment. Thanks to exclusive Beachwood aging, Budweiser has a smoothness that lets it go down especially easy. Sure. It's an expensive way to brew beer, but brewing beer right does make a difference.
That's why when you say Budweiser, you've said it all. Anheuser Busch, Saint Louis.
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When you invite guests over for a holiday dinner, you will wanna spend all your time in the kitchen. Frank Lieber here with some help from True Value Hardware stores who have kitchen appliances that'll do the pot watching for you. Their Sunbeam's high dome multi cooker fry pan, for instance, cooks large roasts or foul. The automatic thermostat assures even heat, has a hard coat Teflon cooking service, so you can use metal utensils. And foods won't stick, so clean up chores will be easier. That's the Sunbeam high dome cooker fry pan. True Value hardware stores also have Sunbeam's new high dome Teflon Crocker fry pan, has a removable ceramic vessel that turns the fry pan into a slow cooker. And because it's heat resistant, the crocker is safe for oven use too. Both the crocker and fry pan removed from the base for easy complete cleaning.
Sunbeam's Crocker fry pan and multi cooker fry pan are just two of the values at participating True Value Hardware stores.
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I promised you a carnival. I'll keep that promise, but be be warned that I do not promise a spun sugar candy time. On the contrary, first, we must go back three years. That summer, Saint Louis papers carried a story that was milked for all it was worth. It was worth a great deal. Headlines.
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Otto Kramer's daughter missing. Eris disappears. Erica Kramer not found. Bow play, suspected.
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That was three years ago. Today, a mansion outside the city has a bronze plaque fixed to iron gates. Otto Kramer, Kramer, no admittance. Due perhaps to the disappearance of a daughter of this house, no one is welcomed beyond its gates. Inside alone on this fateful morning, another daughter, Catherine, age 16, a few minutes ago said goodbye to her father as he left for his bank. She now starts upstairs to clean. In spite of his wealth, Kramer keeps no servants, obeying his own dictate, no admittance. Suddenly, Catherine is startled by a frightening sound. Only the doorbell, but no one comes here unless her father
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sound
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no longer seems frightening. Instead, a merry summons the world at her door. She flies down the stairs, but as her hand touches, turns the door doorknob, hope vanishes. No one is going to see her. No one ever will. Papa forbids it. Papa's word is law, is iron.
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Katrin. Don't you know me, Kate? Erica. Oh,
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Erica. I can't believe it. I thought you were
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I thought you were dead. No. No. I'm real. I'm here. I'm back, and I'm certainly not dead. Oh, I I I dreamed of this a thousand times. So are about a little kid dreamer. But coming home for me, I don't wanna be seen. Does that mean you'll go away again? Oh, Erica, don't please go. We'll talk about that in a minute. First, I have to look at this house, this this prison I broke out of. Nothing's changed. Cold and ugly. No. I don't wanna look at it. Let me look at my little painter. Eric, where have you been? You are so pretty now. You're sweet, sweet and clean. It doesn't matter about me. Tell me tell me where you've been all these three days. You matter more than anything.
Oh, does Papa ever let you out of this house? Well, sometimes he takes me driving and sometimes to church. Papa in church. And the rest of the time, what do you do? Have you you forgotten what it's like here? Oh, Kate. How could I? But then there were two of us. We could at least talk to each other. Who do you talk to now? No one. No tutor anymore? Not since I was 16. Not one single friend? No fun at all? Never mind. I know the answer. Papa's made you into this this pitiful little mouse. Please don't talk about me anymore. Tell me where you went.
Guess. Oh, but we did guess. Papa and I and the police. Oh, and the smartest private detective at all of Saint Louis. All that money squandered for nothing. Where were you? And why won't you tell me? Alright, little one. Hang on tight. I was in the last place on Earth Papa would dream a daughter of his could be. Where? In a carnival. You're teasing. It's a joke. Yes. A beautiful wonderful joke. But the joke's on Papa. A Kramer daughter, part of a carnie. Remember the summer I disappeared? The carnival two miles away? Uh-huh Remember how we could hear the music sometimes? Oh, yes I I do remember You You said it was a merry-go-round One afternoon I sneaked off to see it I couldn't tell you honey I was 19 and grown but you were only 13 It would have scared you Papa would know it. He would sense it, and he'd pry the story out of No. Yes, baby.
Alright. Well, maybe then, but not now. Not anymore. So after I saw everything at the carnival, bold as brass, I went to see the owner, Jody Prince. I told him about about this concentration camp. I said I wanted to be in this carnival. He liked my look. He said he could use me in one of his shows, and he signed me on. The next week when Prince's carnival left Saint Louis, I left with it. Out of this house of death into a carnival that was light. My sister? In a carnival? What do you do in a place like that? You'll know soon enough. Now come on. Let's pack your bag. I'm taking you with me and you'll never come back to this jail again. Taking you have never come me? Why else would I be here to take this chance? Baby, did you think I'd forgotten you? But you never wrote. You you never followed. Katie, you must have known I didn't dare.
Papa would have all mail forwarded to the bank, have the phone phone tapped, or what friends did we have to send a message by. I had to wait till the carne came back to Saint Louis. But all these years, I have planned for this day. The day Papa would lose you too So come on, let's pack your bag I, I, I can't go I can't do that Kate, please don't be afraid You'll be as safe in the carny as I've been He won't look for you there any more than he looks for me Anyway, you, you will stay out of sight until we leave town. Well, you don't understand. I have to take care of papa.
He's getting old. He has a very bad heart condition. Hey. You have given him sixteen years of your life and what has he given you? He's locked you in this prison, made you a servant, beat you. He hasn't beaten me once since you went away. I don't believe that. It's true. Never. Well, then you never crossed him. I did. Mama did. And we both paid for it, Kate. Mama died of it. I ran away from it. And you're so beaten down he doesn't even need to use that walking stick. Papa and I get along. Maybe not like other people, but we've made a life.
The only life I know. Why did you have to come and bring another? Go away so I can protect you ever since. Alright, please. Please, please. This is too funny. This is too new. Papa owns you, owns every thought. You need time for thoughts of your own. Mhmm. I'll go away until tomorrow. Today and tonight, think about the carny with me. I will go everywhere, see everything. It's like merry-go-round music, honey. Think And you won't tell Papa I was here. Oh, no. Katie. Promise. Nothing in the whole world could make make me tell him. Tomorrow morning I'll come again.
And by then you'll change your mind. Tomorrow my little sister and I will go back to the carny together. Papa? Would would you like some mermaid? Yeah. Wasn't the roast the way you like it? Papa? Will you have anything else at all?
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Nope.
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Then if it's alright with you, I'll I'll, do the dishes. Excuse me. Oh, hey. Sit down.
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You have not my permission to leave.
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Yes, sir.
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You will answer a question, Catherine, and you will answer with care. What is wrong with you tonight?
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Yes. No. Nothing Papa.
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Nothing is wrong. I see. Well, do you think perhaps you can fool your father, not Catherine? Please. I'm not trying to fool you. There's a difference here. Something has happened. Now you will inform me what
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it is. What what could possibly happen?
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That is what I intend to learn. Did you leave this house? No, sir. Someone was here?
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No, sir. You lied. No. Papa, no. No. Then why did your hands tremble when you passed my food? Why is your face flushed like an apple? Why? It's just well, I just I just don't feel well. All day I All day you hide something tonight you lie.
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I will have the truth cut ring one way or another. I will have it. Alright.
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I did tell you a lie, papa. I went out.
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Out where, my child?
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To to the grocery store.
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And how did you go to the grocery store? The bus. The bus. And what did you want at the store? I,
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to buy to buy apples.
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I do not see any apples. Oh, but they didn't have any. A pity. Since you so much wanted apples that you left the house, you are not allowed to leave. But we are very fond of apples. Are we not, Catrine?
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Yes, papa.
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Why can't you look at me, Catrine?
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I I I am papa.
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Yes. Now you are. Now why do you stammer, little one? Your pleasant outing today has has made you nervous. Yes.
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Answer me. Papa. Answer. What ails you? I told you. I don't feel good.
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Your health is poor. I had forgotten. You shall give me my lapse of memory. Oh, I'll I'll go up and
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lie down if you don't need me anymore. No.
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No. No. I cannot spare you. There's something I want you to get for me. My walking stick.
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But it's there by your chair, papa. Yes. Yes. So it is. Yes.
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But it is my home that you hand it to me. Alright. Walk around the table. Pick it up. Place it in my hand. Put great store by obedience. You know that. Do you not, Katrin?
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Yes, Yes, sir. Your your your stick, papa. On second thought,
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you will hold it yourself and we will observe it. The gold carving on the top. Describe it, please. It's it's it's a crown. A crown signifying authority. My walking stick once belonged to the emperor Napoleon. His hand held it. Now you will soon hand held it. Now you're soon mine. One more question, child. Why do I always carry it? I I don't know. As the symbol of my authority. And when that authority is questioned, is in doubt, the walking stick of Napoleon removes that doubt.
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You follow me? Yes, sir.
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Alas, your sister's disobedience in the past compelled me to use it. But not only you, never. And I trust I never will. Shall we,
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test you? I I don't I don't know what you mean, papa. I think you do.
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Who was here today, my little catrine?
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No one, papa. No one was here. Only me all day except when I went for the apples. No one.
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Alright. Hand me the stick.
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Thank you.
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A fine instrument for changing lies to truth. Soon it will persuade you to talk and not about Apple. Who was here today?
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Now will you answer? Yes. Yes. Yes. Apple
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explained it. Who was here with my little girl? Who? Erica. Erica.
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One hour later, Otto Kramer stalks down the thronging chaos of the carnival midway. Fury mounts to the bursting point because again and again, he asks the same question. Where is Erica Kramer? And receives the same answer. Never heard or know Erica Kramer, mister. Kearney personnel banded together to protect one of their own.
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Get right, folks. Right this way.
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Right what way? Where in this pigsty is his daughter? We'll find out when I return shortly with act two.
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There is a fresh new spirit sweeping the land. A spirit of honesty and integrity. A free spirit. A spirit that demands products which fill your utilitarian needs while satisfying your good taste and your desire for economy. We at Buick have felt the spirit and are dedicated to your sense of freedom. Our crisply designed solidly built 1975 Buicks will bring joy even to the most demanding of free spirits. The 1975 Buick Electra, LaSaver, Riviera, Century, Skylark, Apollo, and the gutsy new Buick Skyhawk are dedicated to the free spirit in just about everyone. Hey, there's an exciting new attitude at Buick.
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Take advantage of it at your local Buick dealer.
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Dine in a real city of Dallas trolley car under the largest collection of Tiffany lamps in America. Prices. With special luncheon prices from just a dollar 69. The old spaghetti warehouse for dinner or lunch. It's the best restaurant buy in Dallas. And now park free in our lot at Lamar And Munger, just one block east of the restaurant.
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Otto Kramer glares with revulsion at the freak tent barker, ballying the treasures within.
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Feed them all, folks. 25¢. Only two bits. 1 fourth of a dollar.
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Kramer looks above the valley stand at the garish canvases picturing the freaks. Larger than life. More terrible than life. His eyes rivet on the painting of a nearly naked woman. Her body ornamented with hearts, flags, stars, flowers, sunsets, peacocks, snakes. Then lips locked white, he buys a ticket and enters the tent. On the fifth platform stands the tattooed princess. Her body debauched by the colored needle. Her beautiful face unmarred, smiling at her admirers. Kramer halts by the first platform, stares. And when he has seen enough of his daughter's depravity, he turns and quits the tent.
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Erica, princess.
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He's coming. I'm ready. Stay back of my wagon, Jodie. Stay out of of sight. I ought to be in here with you. Your father's got a heavy walking stick. Of course, he has. He always has. Go on, Jody. I'm not afraid of him anymore. I can take care of papa. Alright.
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Holler if you need me, sweetheart. I will. Go on.
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Oh, hurry, papa. Hurry. Hurry. Hurry. Show about to begin. Oh, and how I'll relish it. I let the midget tell you where my living wagon is. If I hadn't, no one in the carny would give me away. You think I didn't see you in the freak top? And the look on your face when you saw my body? Now it's covered with a cape to spare your papa? Oh, no. To play a game and my game will outsmart yours, papa. Hurry up. The stakes are high. Oh, hurry. Damn you. Greetings, papa. Freak. My daughter, the freak. Would you care to come in? Or would a carnival living wagon contaminate the distinguished Otto Kramer? A carnival living wagon contaminate the distinguished Otto Kramer? I will come. The Princess Frederica is highly honored. Princess Frederica. Aren't you pleased I didn't use the name you gave me? I am revolted by everything you are. Oh, dear. I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry. You beat poor little Kate till she told you where I was. That is a lie. Catherine tells me everything. She is my good obedient daughter, not like you.
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Katharine has no sister. Her sister is dead. Dead? Oh, no, old man. You're wrong. You who think you're never wrong. Katharine's sister is wonderfully alive. Making up for the years I might as well have been dead, buried alive. I came here to take you back where you belong, but you belong where you are with the dregs of humanity. I wouldn't have this this this thing you are now. A freak flaunting the corruption of your body for anyone to see. Well, how well you put it?
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Would you care to have a private viewing? Oh, of course, you would Very well, Mr. Kramer I removed my cake Oh, freak! Tattooed freak Can you think of a better way to disguise the scars my father put on my body? A snake arose. The stars and stripes covers stripes. You gave me. Oh, yes. I read the description you supplied the newspapers of your missing daughter. Scars on back from automobile accident. What accident? Oh, god. How I wanted to write to the editor. Dear sir, you cheat my distinguished father. You underrate his powers. The scars on Erica Kramer's back are from his loving hand. Papa, why can't you stop staring at me?
Hearts and twine, garlands of flowers, cupid smirking. Strange you find them beautiful.
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No. They are loathsome. Smile. I'll
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I'll You're what? Beat me? Break me? Yes. I wouldn't raise that walking stick if I were you. Everyone in the carny knows you're here, knows what you are, and they are standing by. If I call, they'll tear you apart. Go on. Hit. Give me reason to call. They'll come every man on the lot. Big Lou, the the giant Herman, the strong man, the grips, the concessionaires, and the man I'm going to marry. And what kind of man would marry a freak? Lie with a woman covered with cartoons? Only another freak. Jodie Prince owns this carnival, and he's like his name. He's a prince.
Now get the hell out of here before I have him throw you out. Oh, with pleasure I go. The sound and sight of you sickens me.
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You you you freak. My body's tattooed, but your soul is. You're the freak. Can't you stay away from my Katrina? That's one order I'll take from you, old man.
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This morning, I thought my sister was worth saving. Well, she's not. She went crying to you about me. Kate lost. She's all yours. Take her unwelcome and get out. You think that's all, all, papa? You think I'm through with you? That was only a teaser. The best is yet to come. Jodie? Are you out there? Right here, honey.
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I just wanted you a man out of sight. I've been in face to face, I might kill him. Did you hear it all? Every word. I was right here for the door.
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Beautiful.
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Oh, it took me twenty two years to win, but I have won, Jodie. I have won. Yes.
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But there's something I don't understand. You said you were through with Kate. I lied.
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I had to. I had to make him think I wouldn't try to see her again. If he thought I'd be back, he'd have Kate guarded and I couldn't get to her tomorrow. Oh, baby. He's no dummy.
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He probably knows you lied and why? Anyhow, he won't take a chance. He'll be gone at all. Right? Count on it. Then I'll get to her another way.
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How? I've got it all figured. I'm enough of my father's daughter, so nothing can stop me now. Good morning, papa. Erica. Your secretary is taking her coffee break so I just walked in. I hope you don't mind. Oh, dear. You come here and shame me. I will close the door. Out of respect for your lofty position in the bank, I wore a high neck and long sleeves. But I will shame you unless you give me Kate. You are, you wits. I tried to phone her. You've cut the wires.
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Telephone is merely out of order. Very unfortunate. I went to the house. You've hired a thug to keep me out. A friend. A house guest. A jailer guarding the gate. He will protect Katharine from undesirable associations. She suffered that indignity yesterday. It will not happen again.
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Unless you give me Kate, I will drag your name through the law courts. Indeed. All of Saint Louis will know what you are. You think I won't?
[00:30:13] Unknown:
I dare say your folly would go to that extreme. Yes. But what judge or jury would take the word of a cheap carnival tramp, your word against Otto Kramers, who would believe a freak whose body is a monstrosity? Oh, then you believe me when I show them what the pious Otto Kramer did to that body. Leave this office. Go where you belong. Freak tent.
[00:30:46] Unknown:
Okay, Princess. I encased the judge. Can we do it? Risky, but we can pull it off. Now? In bright daylight? When you're afraid your old man will yank Kate out of town or at least hide her her somewhere. It's now or never.
[00:31:01] Unknown:
How do we do it?
[00:31:02] Unknown:
Well, if your house wasn't in the country, we couldn't. Sure, the place is locked and barred, but, what we do is get a rope ladder up to Katharine's
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windowsill. What about the guard? How do we get through the gate? I'll take care of him. He's a cinch.
[00:31:16] Unknown:
You'll stay on the side while I wrap with our friend. I'll be a drunk looking for a shot of booze to cure a hangover. Oh, Jodie. Listen. It'll be a great act. I'll be falling down drunk. See? I get close to the guy, he's off guard. Wanna, I knock him out. You go off the ladder and persuade Kate to come down it. Can I persuade her? Oh, sure you can. You hold all the cards, sweetheart. That plan you've worked out for her is a winner. Come on. Let's go.
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Papa will come after me. He'll bring me back. You'll come alright, but not bring you back. I promise Marvelous for him. I fooled him when I joined the carney and I can't again. No one can fool him. Last night when I tried to lie, he knew he always knows. And last night, what did he do to you, Kate? I don't wanna talk about it. Kate, we have to. Now listen to me. He has started and he can't stop. The least thing you do to displease him, he'll use that stick. And nothing will please him except pain, yours. Don't don't. Don't. That's what you'll say to him. Don't, Papa. Don't. And it won't do any good, Katie. Can't you see? You don't dare stay here anymore. I don't dare go.
When you went to the carnival, he didn't know where you were. He couldn't bring you back. With me, he'll know, and he will bring me back. Little sister please trust me. I tell you my plan will work but we need all day to get ready. Now stop crying. Listen to the plan.
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Ladies and gentlemen, introducing the star of Princess Connor. Step by your door platform. Step my way. And feast your eye.
[00:33:36] Unknown:
Who is this handsome gentleman who honors our little show tonight? Mister Otto Kramer, isn't it? Why ladies and gentlemen, I do believe the foremost banker of St. Louis is an admirer of the tattooed princess. Well, move on, all you lovely people. Come back to see me later right now. Dear mister Kramer wants to talk privately to his princess.
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And bankers always get their money's worth. Alright. Of course. The president is my friend. You. To the Cheat lobby right this way. Right this way.
[00:34:17] Unknown:
Good evening, papa. How generous of you to patronize the freak show a second time. Where is Katrine? And how clever of you to know that she's with me. What have you done with her? I've taken her out of bondage. Answer me. I answered. I ruin you for this. I'll have this carnival blasted off the map. Just how do you propose to do that, mister Kramer? Well show me a carnival that isn't breaking the law, underage performers,
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hovering criminals, white slavery, and now kidnapping. A dream left of her own free will. She is 16 out of age. That is kidnapping.
[00:34:54] Unknown:
Oh, dear. Dear. I never thought of that. So why haven't you called the police? What? And humiliate her? Make this vileness public?
[00:35:05] Unknown:
Now I call them after I take her away from here tonight. How is she? You think you can keep her from me?
[00:35:13] Unknown:
I've no intention of keeping her from you. You can see her at midnight after the last show. I'll see her now. You'll see her when I say you can see her. Midnight. Four hours from now. Right here in this tent. Don't try to find her. She's hidden and protected. Until then, I recommend the house of horrors. You'll feel right at
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home. Earlier this night, when Otto Kramer found his house empty, he stood murmuring Catherine's name over over and over. Can it be that in his twisted way he does love this daughter? Nevertheless, his fingers tightened on the walking stick. When he left for the carnival, he did not trouble to lock the door. What was valuable in his house already had been stolen. No admittance. Anyone who disobeys Otto Kramer must be punished.
[00:36:21] Unknown:
We'll witness someone's punishment when I return shortly with act three. I want that sinus medicine. Headache tablets? No. Sinus medicine. Sinus tablets. Helps the headache and the pressure. Oh, you mean sign off. Exactly. Headache pain is one thing. A sinus headache is something else. Mhmm. Some
[00:36:36] Unknown:
pain is one thing. A sinus headache is something else. Sometimes your whole face can seem to throb with pain. You want relief? Take sign off tablets, s I n e o f f, the sinus medicine that gives you a full dose of pure aspirin plus a sinus drainer. Synoff, the sinus medicine that helps relieve sinus pain while you drain. And Synoff doesn't stop there. Have you tried sign off sinus spray? The fastest known form of sinus congestion relief. It works in seconds. That's sign off sinus spray. When sinus flares up, use sign off tablets and spray only as directed. S I n e o f f. Sign off. Exactly. Sign off. The sinus medicines in the bright red box.
[00:37:26] Unknown:
Midnight in Madrid. We walk down the ancient street of the knife makers, Calle De Cochilleros. We open the carved wooden doors of Botin. Dear friends have gathered for two hundred fifty years to dive and talk and taste the beauty of Spanish wines. Now in another age, Mistala is here. Now in another age, Mistala is here. Mistala, the light natural rose wine created in Spain to capture a legendary flavor. Mistala imported rose, born of
[00:38:24] Unknown:
l a, Missdala, Spanish Rose.
[00:38:39] Unknown:
Midnight. The carnival toys are silent, closed down. The midway is emptying of customers departing with bright balloons and cheap prizes won in games of chance. But one customer most surely does not depart, and another game of chance is about to begin. Otto Kramer paces the dimly lighted freak tent, a walking stick gripped in his hand. In Erica's living wagon, his two daughters are no less tense than their father. Both wear long satin capes winking with sequins. Erica's purple, Catherine's red.
[00:39:20] Unknown:
You two beautiful dolls ready? Oh, Jodie, will it work? Easy, Prince is easy. It'll work. It can't.
[00:39:27] Unknown:
Oh, I I never should have come. Why not quit it, both of you? If Papa takes Kate back, it'll be worse than it was before. Will you cut it out? All those promises I made her, what was I thinking of?
[00:39:37] Unknown:
You know, I never saw you like this before. My girl has a net of 10 people, ain't scared of nothing. That's when I take chances for myself. This is for Kate. Maybe I'll hurt her instead of help. And maybe you'll give her the world by the tail. Erica, why didn't you ask the fortune teller if we should do this? Oh, for Pete's sake. Carlotta can't even predict that the sun will rise. We can't predict Papa. I wish I hadn't come. Now you won't say that when it's all over, honey. When he's bending the wheel of fortune, will it stop on Kate's number? The odds are terrible against her, Joan. I'll give you big odds. One gets you 20, the wheel spins her number. It won't. I know it won't. Oh, now damn it. We spent all day getting ready for this caper. Here it is time for the big performance you're both a mess. Alright. You wanna call it off?
Let your old man win hands down?
[00:40:24] Unknown:
Is that what you want? No. No. Never. Just the sound of the words makes me sick. Thank you for saying them. Put my head back together. Alright, Kate. I promise you all over again Papa won't want you anymore. He won't take you back. Now believe it. I will. I have to. Now can we please just get it over with? That's more like it.
[00:40:52] Unknown:
Alright. You're all set, Kate. Remember everything you're supposed to do and say now. Every single thing we rehearsed, if I can just go through with it. My money's on you, kid. You're your sister's sister. Why? I hope I can remember the part about the wings. I like that part. Let's just run over a couple of things. Princess, when you go into that tent alone, you keep the old man standing right by the entrance. Don't let him to me at Kate. I know. I know. If he moves toward us, step in between if you have to. Don't worry. Kate waits about two minutes.
That makes her entrance. Oh. It'll be the longest two minutes in the world. Well, that's why you wait till I say when. I don't want you jumping the gun. And remember, you're the one that stays close to the entrance. I will. And all the time. I'll be right outside. Ready or not, papa. Here we come.
[00:41:42] Unknown:
Hurry, hurry, hurry. Show about to begin. Hey, hey. And what a show.
[00:41:53] Unknown:
So sorry. I kept you waiting, papa. Where is Katrine? She'll be along.
[00:41:58] Unknown:
Now what new trick is this now? Such a suspicious mind, papa. Now you kept me here cooling my heels while you had a spirited away, but it will do you no good.
[00:42:09] Unknown:
You will be arrested for kidnapping and forced by the police to tell me where Catherine is. Simmer down, papa. None of that will be necessary. Kate is just primping a little. She wants to be pretty for you. Hello, papa.
[00:42:26] Unknown:
Papa. Kathleen. You will come home with me this minute and take off that cape.
[00:42:31] Unknown:
It's such a pretty cape, Papa.
[00:42:34] Unknown:
Red satin and sequin. Oh, your sister's cheap finery.
[00:42:38] Unknown:
Take it off at once. Dear papa, you sound like a customer at a burlesque show. But I warn you if Kate takes off the cape you may not like what you see. She's wearing what I wear in my act.
[00:42:52] Unknown:
A g string. Oh, Catrine. You would not.
[00:42:56] Unknown:
You don't believe it, Mom. No. Then I'll have to show you. I'll spread my cape like wings. Wings for flying. Free as a bird. And you can see if I'm as pretty as Erica. There. Look. Oh, my god. Take a good look, papa. Look, Katrine. Yes. Love you. Yes. Katrine tattooed like me. Tattooed all. Oh, no. No. Oh, tattooed daughter. What a proud father. Aren't the roses and sunsets, pray? The flags and the heart. Yeah. Put down that cane. I'll break her in two for this Kate, what? Get out. Get out. Go to my wagon. I'll finish with papa. Oh, I'm I'm sorry you don't like the pot. Jodie, go with Kate. Oh, you Put down the cane. You won't break me in two either. Kate and I have broken you. Oh, Catrine.
Catrine. Catrine tattooed. Catrine as repulsive as you find me. Can you ever bear to look at her again? No. No. Since you don't want her anymore, then she can live with me.
[00:44:11] Unknown:
So that is your game. I see now. I see. Or want her?
[00:44:18] Unknown:
No. So go home to your empty house and I wish you joy in it. I do not want her,
[00:44:25] Unknown:
but I will have her. What? I will have my daughter.
[00:44:33] Unknown:
You you'll take her back the way she is now. I will take her, and the rest of her life she will be locked away.
[00:44:42] Unknown:
She's a freak, and freaks should be hidden from the world. You can't. You can't freak. What you have made of your sister made ugly what was beautiful. I hope that you are satisfied. What you have said. Papa. Papa? Medicine. Medicine. Pocket.
[00:45:08] Unknown:
Your heart. Kate said you had a heart condition. Pocket. Pocket. Medicine. Medicine. Oh, it's a bad attack, isn't it, papa? That's very bad. What a shame because I didn't quite understand what you were saying before you fell down in the sawdust like that. I think you were saying you hope I'm satisfied? Papa. Papa. Proper. I'm satisfied. I'm very satisfied. Let medicine in your pocket. You have to take that to live, don't you? Jovie, stay outside! I'm coming out, you stay there! Oh, and Papa, you stay there As if you could do anything else I'll be back. Don't you worry.
I'll be back.
[00:46:10] Unknown:
You alright, Princess?
[00:46:12] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Yes, Jodie. You go back to Kate. You go back. What's the matter with you? Nothing's the matter. I'm saying goodbye to Papa. That's all. Go on, Jodie. Katie needs you. I don't.
[00:46:28] Unknown:
I don't like the way you sound.
[00:46:30] Unknown:
You think this is easy? The hardest thing I ever did in my life, but I have to do it alone. Now
[00:46:37] Unknown:
Now will you go? Alright. Alright. Now go.
[00:46:42] Unknown:
Can I do it? Can I? Thumper? Papa? Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Yes. I understand. You need it to live. Yes. Oh, yes, papa. I understand that too. But I I don't know that, do I? Nobody ever told me. Oh, Papa, Papa. Did you ever let Kate and me live? Did you ever give us what we needed? Now hear this, Papa. If you still have time to wonder how I can do what I will do. I learned it from you Papa. How could I possibly live with viciousness and evil and hate for nineteen years and not have some of it come off on you? No. Hurry.
Hurry. Yes. I'll hurry and tell Katie you're letting her stay. Oh, it's okay. It's your blessing. It is your blessing. Because you have to die so Kate can live. Goodbye, bye, papa. Good bye, papa. The The Prox me. Tell me again. Say it again. Papa doesn't want me. He doesn't want you. Oh, he won't take me away. No, he won't take you away now or ever. He doesn't want me all tattooed. He doesn't want you. And and and you're sure he's gone? Yes. He is gone. Poor papa. He didn't like my sunsets and flags and roses and heart Or truth or decency or kindness.
Erica. What's the matter with you? You don't sound a bit happy. I am. I am. Of course, I am little Kate. It's just that I don't like sunsets and flags and roses either. Either. Not on you. Come on. Let's wash all those pictures off. Oh. What if Papa had come close to me? What if he'd seen they were only painted on? How could he Kate? All his life Papa never saw anything. But evil and ugliness. Come on Katie. Soap, water, a scrub brush, and my little sister is as good as new.
[00:49:24] Unknown:
By now, you know it is not my custom to point a moral, but allow me just this once. Thank you. The moral is this. Erica spoke a profound truth. You cannot live with viciousness and evil and hate, and not have some of it come off on you. I'll be back shortly.
[00:49:52] Unknown:
There is a fresh new spirit sweeping the land. A free spirit that demands good products. Products that satisfy your sense of good taste and desire for economy. But above all, products that perform. Buick has been touched by this spirit. And this year our crispy designed solidly built Buicks will bring joy even to the most demanding of free spirits. The nineteen seventy five Buicks, dedicated to the free spirit in just about every
[00:50:21] Unknown:
Stanley, Myron, Handleton. Did you know you can have a college grad's career without four years of college? All you need is a year or two of technical education to work in fields like engineering, health service, automotive design, and forestry. The facts are in a free booklet called 25 technical careers in two years or less. Just write careers Washington DC Two Zero Two Zero Two.
[00:50:46] Unknown:
A public service message of this station and the advertising council. My friends, you allowed me to draw a moral from our experience tonight, a rather depressing moral, I'm afraid. So let's look at the other side of the coin, the bright side. If you live with the good, the true, and the beautiful,
[00:51:20] Unknown:
some of that will come off on you too.
[00:51:23] Unknown:
Our cast included Terry Keen, Stefan Schnabel, Rosemary Rice, and Ralph Bell. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown.
[00:51:36] Unknown:
And now
[00:51:37] Unknown:
a preview of our next
[00:51:39] Unknown:
tale. Not there. For God's sake, Charles. Why not? That's the haunted villa. You superstitious? How about that place? Anyway, it's boarded up, has been for years. But there's the house now, and maybe we can find some shelter. The door, the statue nearest the house would like to eat it. I can't look. It's as bright as molten steel. It's gone. Melted has never been. I could swear I saw that thing jump and run into the house. Oh, good. It's lighting up. Maybe it's on fire. The door is open. Welcome, stranger. Come. This is the night to be abroad.
[00:52:27] Unknown:
Welcome to the Villa Dede Square, the house of despair. Radio Mystery Theater was sponsored in part by sign off, the sinus medicines. This is EG Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time. Pleasant
[00:52:50] Unknown:
dreams?
An Amex card with you on your morning coffee run and earn cash back. On a weekend trip, earn miles. See if you prequalify for an American Express card with no impact on your credit score. Learn more at americanexpress.com slash check-4-offers. Your credit score may be impacted if you accept a card. Terms apply.
[00:00:22] Unknown:
From the Spain of legend, Mystala is here. Mistala, the light natural rose wine created in Spain to capture a legendary flavor. Mistala imported rose, born of vines
[00:00:52] Unknown:
The CBS Radio Mystery Theater
[00:00:58] Unknown:
presents
[00:01:13] Unknown:
Come in. Welcome. I'm EG Marshall. Right this way, folks. Hurry hurry hurry. Step right up. Yes. Welcome this night to a carnival, to the razzle dazzle clash of color and sound, hiding hate and evil and murder.
[00:01:36] Unknown:
Right this way, the Freak Show, ladies and gentlemen. See nature's mistakes. Step right up.
[00:01:46] Unknown:
It's opening night at Prince's Carnival outside Saint Louis, but no fortune teller sees in cards or crystal ball the dark events that will happen here. I loathe
[00:01:59] Unknown:
everything you are. The sight of you sickens me. I'll I'll You know what?
[00:02:08] Unknown:
Beat me? Break me? Yes. Try it. Every man in the carny knows you're here, knows what you are. Giant, strong man, grips, barkers, they're all standing by. If I call, they'll tear you apart. Oh, give me reason to call. I'd love it. Go on. Hit.
[00:02:38] Unknown:
Our suspense drama Tattooed for Murder was written especially for the mystery theater by Nancy Moore and stars Terry Keane and Stefan Schnabel. It is sponsored in part by Anheuser Busch Incorporated, brewers of Budweiser, and Buick Motor Division. I'll be back shortly with act one.
[00:03:03] Unknown:
There's nothing wrong with drinking Budweiser sip by sip. Is there? Well, the brewers of Budweiser think there's a better way. Sipping's fine if you're drinking wine, but Bud is the king of beers, a hearty drink. Look. Rinse a 10 or 12 ounce glass with cold water. Then open a can or bottle of Bud and pour it right down the middle so it kicks up a good head of foam. Now take a a big drink and then swallow big. No sips. That's how it should be done. More taste, more beer drinking enjoyment. Thanks to exclusive Beachwood aging, Budweiser has a smoothness that lets it go down especially easy. Sure. It's an expensive way to brew beer, but brewing beer right does make a difference.
That's why when you say Budweiser, you've said it all. Anheuser Busch, Saint Louis.
[00:04:01] Unknown:
When you invite guests over for a holiday dinner, you will wanna spend all your time in the kitchen. Frank Lieber here with some help from True Value Hardware stores who have kitchen appliances that'll do the pot watching for you. Their Sunbeam's high dome multi cooker fry pan, for instance, cooks large roasts or foul. The automatic thermostat assures even heat, has a hard coat Teflon cooking service, so you can use metal utensils. And foods won't stick, so clean up chores will be easier. That's the Sunbeam high dome cooker fry pan. True Value hardware stores also have Sunbeam's new high dome Teflon Crocker fry pan, has a removable ceramic vessel that turns the fry pan into a slow cooker. And because it's heat resistant, the crocker is safe for oven use too. Both the crocker and fry pan removed from the base for easy complete cleaning.
Sunbeam's Crocker fry pan and multi cooker fry pan are just two of the values at participating True Value Hardware stores.
[00:05:14] Unknown:
I promised you a carnival. I'll keep that promise, but be be warned that I do not promise a spun sugar candy time. On the contrary, first, we must go back three years. That summer, Saint Louis papers carried a story that was milked for all it was worth. It was worth a great deal. Headlines.
[00:05:37] Unknown:
Otto Kramer's daughter missing. Eris disappears. Erica Kramer not found. Bow play, suspected.
[00:05:49] Unknown:
That was three years ago. Today, a mansion outside the city has a bronze plaque fixed to iron gates. Otto Kramer, Kramer, no admittance. Due perhaps to the disappearance of a daughter of this house, no one is welcomed beyond its gates. Inside alone on this fateful morning, another daughter, Catherine, age 16, a few minutes ago said goodbye to her father as he left for his bank. She now starts upstairs to clean. In spite of his wealth, Kramer keeps no servants, obeying his own dictate, no admittance. Suddenly, Catherine is startled by a frightening sound. Only the doorbell, but no one comes here unless her father
[00:06:52] Unknown:
sound
[00:06:55] Unknown:
no longer seems frightening. Instead, a merry summons the world at her door. She flies down the stairs, but as her hand touches, turns the door doorknob, hope vanishes. No one is going to see her. No one ever will. Papa forbids it. Papa's word is law, is iron.
[00:07:22] Unknown:
Katrin. Don't you know me, Kate? Erica. Oh,
[00:07:30] Unknown:
Erica. I can't believe it. I thought you were
[00:07:35] Unknown:
I thought you were dead. No. No. I'm real. I'm here. I'm back, and I'm certainly not dead. Oh, I I I dreamed of this a thousand times. So are about a little kid dreamer. But coming home for me, I don't wanna be seen. Does that mean you'll go away again? Oh, Erica, don't please go. We'll talk about that in a minute. First, I have to look at this house, this this prison I broke out of. Nothing's changed. Cold and ugly. No. I don't wanna look at it. Let me look at my little painter. Eric, where have you been? You are so pretty now. You're sweet, sweet and clean. It doesn't matter about me. Tell me tell me where you've been all these three days. You matter more than anything.
Oh, does Papa ever let you out of this house? Well, sometimes he takes me driving and sometimes to church. Papa in church. And the rest of the time, what do you do? Have you you forgotten what it's like here? Oh, Kate. How could I? But then there were two of us. We could at least talk to each other. Who do you talk to now? No one. No tutor anymore? Not since I was 16. Not one single friend? No fun at all? Never mind. I know the answer. Papa's made you into this this pitiful little mouse. Please don't talk about me anymore. Tell me where you went.
Guess. Oh, but we did guess. Papa and I and the police. Oh, and the smartest private detective at all of Saint Louis. All that money squandered for nothing. Where were you? And why won't you tell me? Alright, little one. Hang on tight. I was in the last place on Earth Papa would dream a daughter of his could be. Where? In a carnival. You're teasing. It's a joke. Yes. A beautiful wonderful joke. But the joke's on Papa. A Kramer daughter, part of a carnie. Remember the summer I disappeared? The carnival two miles away? Uh-huh Remember how we could hear the music sometimes? Oh, yes I I do remember You You said it was a merry-go-round One afternoon I sneaked off to see it I couldn't tell you honey I was 19 and grown but you were only 13 It would have scared you Papa would know it. He would sense it, and he'd pry the story out of No. Yes, baby.
Alright. Well, maybe then, but not now. Not anymore. So after I saw everything at the carnival, bold as brass, I went to see the owner, Jody Prince. I told him about about this concentration camp. I said I wanted to be in this carnival. He liked my look. He said he could use me in one of his shows, and he signed me on. The next week when Prince's carnival left Saint Louis, I left with it. Out of this house of death into a carnival that was light. My sister? In a carnival? What do you do in a place like that? You'll know soon enough. Now come on. Let's pack your bag. I'm taking you with me and you'll never come back to this jail again. Taking you have never come me? Why else would I be here to take this chance? Baby, did you think I'd forgotten you? But you never wrote. You you never followed. Katie, you must have known I didn't dare.
Papa would have all mail forwarded to the bank, have the phone phone tapped, or what friends did we have to send a message by. I had to wait till the carne came back to Saint Louis. But all these years, I have planned for this day. The day Papa would lose you too So come on, let's pack your bag I, I, I can't go I can't do that Kate, please don't be afraid You'll be as safe in the carny as I've been He won't look for you there any more than he looks for me Anyway, you, you will stay out of sight until we leave town. Well, you don't understand. I have to take care of papa.
He's getting old. He has a very bad heart condition. Hey. You have given him sixteen years of your life and what has he given you? He's locked you in this prison, made you a servant, beat you. He hasn't beaten me once since you went away. I don't believe that. It's true. Never. Well, then you never crossed him. I did. Mama did. And we both paid for it, Kate. Mama died of it. I ran away from it. And you're so beaten down he doesn't even need to use that walking stick. Papa and I get along. Maybe not like other people, but we've made a life.
The only life I know. Why did you have to come and bring another? Go away so I can protect you ever since. Alright, please. Please, please. This is too funny. This is too new. Papa owns you, owns every thought. You need time for thoughts of your own. Mhmm. I'll go away until tomorrow. Today and tonight, think about the carny with me. I will go everywhere, see everything. It's like merry-go-round music, honey. Think And you won't tell Papa I was here. Oh, no. Katie. Promise. Nothing in the whole world could make make me tell him. Tomorrow morning I'll come again.
And by then you'll change your mind. Tomorrow my little sister and I will go back to the carny together. Papa? Would would you like some mermaid? Yeah. Wasn't the roast the way you like it? Papa? Will you have anything else at all?
[00:13:52] Unknown:
Nope.
[00:13:54] Unknown:
Then if it's alright with you, I'll I'll, do the dishes. Excuse me. Oh, hey. Sit down.
[00:14:05] Unknown:
You have not my permission to leave.
[00:14:08] Unknown:
Yes, sir.
[00:14:10] Unknown:
You will answer a question, Catherine, and you will answer with care. What is wrong with you tonight?
[00:14:20] Unknown:
Yes. No. Nothing Papa.
[00:14:23] Unknown:
Nothing is wrong. I see. Well, do you think perhaps you can fool your father, not Catherine? Please. I'm not trying to fool you. There's a difference here. Something has happened. Now you will inform me what
[00:14:39] Unknown:
it is. What what could possibly happen?
[00:14:42] Unknown:
That is what I intend to learn. Did you leave this house? No, sir. Someone was here?
[00:14:51] Unknown:
No, sir. You lied. No. Papa, no. No. Then why did your hands tremble when you passed my food? Why is your face flushed like an apple? Why? It's just well, I just I just don't feel well. All day I All day you hide something tonight you lie.
[00:15:13] Unknown:
I will have the truth cut ring one way or another. I will have it. Alright.
[00:15:24] Unknown:
I did tell you a lie, papa. I went out.
[00:15:31] Unknown:
Out where, my child?
[00:15:33] Unknown:
To to the grocery store.
[00:15:35] Unknown:
And how did you go to the grocery store? The bus. The bus. And what did you want at the store? I,
[00:15:46] Unknown:
to buy to buy apples.
[00:15:49] Unknown:
I do not see any apples. Oh, but they didn't have any. A pity. Since you so much wanted apples that you left the house, you are not allowed to leave. But we are very fond of apples. Are we not, Catrine?
[00:16:05] Unknown:
Yes, papa.
[00:16:08] Unknown:
Why can't you look at me, Catrine?
[00:16:10] Unknown:
I I I am papa.
[00:16:13] Unknown:
Yes. Now you are. Now why do you stammer, little one? Your pleasant outing today has has made you nervous. Yes.
[00:16:24] Unknown:
Answer me. Papa. Answer. What ails you? I told you. I don't feel good.
[00:16:32] Unknown:
Your health is poor. I had forgotten. You shall give me my lapse of memory. Oh, I'll I'll go up and
[00:16:42] Unknown:
lie down if you don't need me anymore. No.
[00:16:45] Unknown:
No. No. I cannot spare you. There's something I want you to get for me. My walking stick.
[00:16:55] Unknown:
But it's there by your chair, papa. Yes. Yes. So it is. Yes.
[00:16:59] Unknown:
But it is my home that you hand it to me. Alright. Walk around the table. Pick it up. Place it in my hand. Put great store by obedience. You know that. Do you not, Katrin?
[00:17:24] Unknown:
Yes, Yes, sir. Your your your stick, papa. On second thought,
[00:17:30] Unknown:
you will hold it yourself and we will observe it. The gold carving on the top. Describe it, please. It's it's it's a crown. A crown signifying authority. My walking stick once belonged to the emperor Napoleon. His hand held it. Now you will soon hand held it. Now you're soon mine. One more question, child. Why do I always carry it? I I don't know. As the symbol of my authority. And when that authority is questioned, is in doubt, the walking stick of Napoleon removes that doubt.
[00:18:19] Unknown:
You follow me? Yes, sir.
[00:18:22] Unknown:
Alas, your sister's disobedience in the past compelled me to use it. But not only you, never. And I trust I never will. Shall we,
[00:18:32] Unknown:
test you? I I don't I don't know what you mean, papa. I think you do.
[00:18:41] Unknown:
Who was here today, my little catrine?
[00:18:44] Unknown:
No one, papa. No one was here. Only me all day except when I went for the apples. No one.
[00:18:50] Unknown:
Alright. Hand me the stick.
[00:18:55] Unknown:
Thank you.
[00:18:59] Unknown:
A fine instrument for changing lies to truth. Soon it will persuade you to talk and not about Apple. Who was here today?
[00:19:16] Unknown:
Now will you answer? Yes. Yes. Yes. Apple
[00:19:20] Unknown:
explained it. Who was here with my little girl? Who? Erica. Erica.
[00:19:36] Unknown:
One hour later, Otto Kramer stalks down the thronging chaos of the carnival midway. Fury mounts to the bursting point because again and again, he asks the same question. Where is Erica Kramer? And receives the same answer. Never heard or know Erica Kramer, mister. Kearney personnel banded together to protect one of their own.
[00:20:00] Unknown:
Get right, folks. Right this way.
[00:20:04] Unknown:
Right what way? Where in this pigsty is his daughter? We'll find out when I return shortly with act two.
[00:20:22] Unknown:
There is a fresh new spirit sweeping the land. A spirit of honesty and integrity. A free spirit. A spirit that demands products which fill your utilitarian needs while satisfying your good taste and your desire for economy. We at Buick have felt the spirit and are dedicated to your sense of freedom. Our crisply designed solidly built 1975 Buicks will bring joy even to the most demanding of free spirits. The 1975 Buick Electra, LaSaver, Riviera, Century, Skylark, Apollo, and the gutsy new Buick Skyhawk are dedicated to the free spirit in just about everyone. Hey, there's an exciting new attitude at Buick.
[00:21:07] Unknown:
Take advantage of it at your local Buick dealer.
[00:21:15] Unknown:
Dine in a real city of Dallas trolley car under the largest collection of Tiffany lamps in America. Prices. With special luncheon prices from just a dollar 69. The old spaghetti warehouse for dinner or lunch. It's the best restaurant buy in Dallas. And now park free in our lot at Lamar And Munger, just one block east of the restaurant.
[00:22:03] Unknown:
Otto Kramer glares with revulsion at the freak tent barker, ballying the treasures within.
[00:22:09] Unknown:
Feed them all, folks. 25¢. Only two bits. 1 fourth of a dollar.
[00:22:17] Unknown:
Kramer looks above the valley stand at the garish canvases picturing the freaks. Larger than life. More terrible than life. His eyes rivet on the painting of a nearly naked woman. Her body ornamented with hearts, flags, stars, flowers, sunsets, peacocks, snakes. Then lips locked white, he buys a ticket and enters the tent. On the fifth platform stands the tattooed princess. Her body debauched by the colored needle. Her beautiful face unmarred, smiling at her admirers. Kramer halts by the first platform, stares. And when he has seen enough of his daughter's depravity, he turns and quits the tent.
[00:23:09] Unknown:
Erica, princess.
[00:23:12] Unknown:
He's coming. I'm ready. Stay back of my wagon, Jodie. Stay out of of sight. I ought to be in here with you. Your father's got a heavy walking stick. Of course, he has. He always has. Go on, Jody. I'm not afraid of him anymore. I can take care of papa. Alright.
[00:23:27] Unknown:
Holler if you need me, sweetheart. I will. Go on.
[00:23:33] Unknown:
Oh, hurry, papa. Hurry. Hurry. Hurry. Show about to begin. Oh, and how I'll relish it. I let the midget tell you where my living wagon is. If I hadn't, no one in the carny would give me away. You think I didn't see you in the freak top? And the look on your face when you saw my body? Now it's covered with a cape to spare your papa? Oh, no. To play a game and my game will outsmart yours, papa. Hurry up. The stakes are high. Oh, hurry. Damn you. Greetings, papa. Freak. My daughter, the freak. Would you care to come in? Or would a carnival living wagon contaminate the distinguished Otto Kramer? A carnival living wagon contaminate the distinguished Otto Kramer? I will come. The Princess Frederica is highly honored. Princess Frederica. Aren't you pleased I didn't use the name you gave me? I am revolted by everything you are. Oh, dear. I'm so sorry.
I'm so sorry. You beat poor little Kate till she told you where I was. That is a lie. Catherine tells me everything. She is my good obedient daughter, not like you.
[00:24:58] Unknown:
Katharine has no sister. Her sister is dead. Dead? Oh, no, old man. You're wrong. You who think you're never wrong. Katharine's sister is wonderfully alive. Making up for the years I might as well have been dead, buried alive. I came here to take you back where you belong, but you belong where you are with the dregs of humanity. I wouldn't have this this this thing you are now. A freak flaunting the corruption of your body for anyone to see. Well, how well you put it?
[00:25:36] Unknown:
Would you care to have a private viewing? Oh, of course, you would Very well, Mr. Kramer I removed my cake Oh, freak! Tattooed freak Can you think of a better way to disguise the scars my father put on my body? A snake arose. The stars and stripes covers stripes. You gave me. Oh, yes. I read the description you supplied the newspapers of your missing daughter. Scars on back from automobile accident. What accident? Oh, god. How I wanted to write to the editor. Dear sir, you cheat my distinguished father. You underrate his powers. The scars on Erica Kramer's back are from his loving hand. Papa, why can't you stop staring at me?
Hearts and twine, garlands of flowers, cupid smirking. Strange you find them beautiful.
[00:26:37] Unknown:
No. They are loathsome. Smile. I'll
[00:26:41] Unknown:
I'll You're what? Beat me? Break me? Yes. I wouldn't raise that walking stick if I were you. Everyone in the carny knows you're here, knows what you are, and they are standing by. If I call, they'll tear you apart. Go on. Hit. Give me reason to call. They'll come every man on the lot. Big Lou, the the giant Herman, the strong man, the grips, the concessionaires, and the man I'm going to marry. And what kind of man would marry a freak? Lie with a woman covered with cartoons? Only another freak. Jodie Prince owns this carnival, and he's like his name. He's a prince.
Now get the hell out of here before I have him throw you out. Oh, with pleasure I go. The sound and sight of you sickens me.
[00:27:31] Unknown:
You you you freak. My body's tattooed, but your soul is. You're the freak. Can't you stay away from my Katrina? That's one order I'll take from you, old man.
[00:27:42] Unknown:
This morning, I thought my sister was worth saving. Well, she's not. She went crying to you about me. Kate lost. She's all yours. Take her unwelcome and get out. You think that's all, all, papa? You think I'm through with you? That was only a teaser. The best is yet to come. Jodie? Are you out there? Right here, honey.
[00:28:18] Unknown:
I just wanted you a man out of sight. I've been in face to face, I might kill him. Did you hear it all? Every word. I was right here for the door.
[00:28:28] Unknown:
Beautiful.
[00:28:29] Unknown:
Oh, it took me twenty two years to win, but I have won, Jodie. I have won. Yes.
[00:28:35] Unknown:
But there's something I don't understand. You said you were through with Kate. I lied.
[00:28:42] Unknown:
I had to. I had to make him think I wouldn't try to see her again. If he thought I'd be back, he'd have Kate guarded and I couldn't get to her tomorrow. Oh, baby. He's no dummy.
[00:28:52] Unknown:
He probably knows you lied and why? Anyhow, he won't take a chance. He'll be gone at all. Right? Count on it. Then I'll get to her another way.
[00:29:00] Unknown:
How? I've got it all figured. I'm enough of my father's daughter, so nothing can stop me now. Good morning, papa. Erica. Your secretary is taking her coffee break so I just walked in. I hope you don't mind. Oh, dear. You come here and shame me. I will close the door. Out of respect for your lofty position in the bank, I wore a high neck and long sleeves. But I will shame you unless you give me Kate. You are, you wits. I tried to phone her. You've cut the wires.
[00:29:43] Unknown:
Telephone is merely out of order. Very unfortunate. I went to the house. You've hired a thug to keep me out. A friend. A house guest. A jailer guarding the gate. He will protect Katharine from undesirable associations. She suffered that indignity yesterday. It will not happen again.
[00:30:00] Unknown:
Unless you give me Kate, I will drag your name through the law courts. Indeed. All of Saint Louis will know what you are. You think I won't?
[00:30:13] Unknown:
I dare say your folly would go to that extreme. Yes. But what judge or jury would take the word of a cheap carnival tramp, your word against Otto Kramers, who would believe a freak whose body is a monstrosity? Oh, then you believe me when I show them what the pious Otto Kramer did to that body. Leave this office. Go where you belong. Freak tent.
[00:30:46] Unknown:
Okay, Princess. I encased the judge. Can we do it? Risky, but we can pull it off. Now? In bright daylight? When you're afraid your old man will yank Kate out of town or at least hide her her somewhere. It's now or never.
[00:31:01] Unknown:
How do we do it?
[00:31:02] Unknown:
Well, if your house wasn't in the country, we couldn't. Sure, the place is locked and barred, but, what we do is get a rope ladder up to Katharine's
[00:31:10] Unknown:
windowsill. What about the guard? How do we get through the gate? I'll take care of him. He's a cinch.
[00:31:16] Unknown:
You'll stay on the side while I wrap with our friend. I'll be a drunk looking for a shot of booze to cure a hangover. Oh, Jodie. Listen. It'll be a great act. I'll be falling down drunk. See? I get close to the guy, he's off guard. Wanna, I knock him out. You go off the ladder and persuade Kate to come down it. Can I persuade her? Oh, sure you can. You hold all the cards, sweetheart. That plan you've worked out for her is a winner. Come on. Let's go.
[00:31:49] Unknown:
Papa will come after me. He'll bring me back. You'll come alright, but not bring you back. I promise Marvelous for him. I fooled him when I joined the carney and I can't again. No one can fool him. Last night when I tried to lie, he knew he always knows. And last night, what did he do to you, Kate? I don't wanna talk about it. Kate, we have to. Now listen to me. He has started and he can't stop. The least thing you do to displease him, he'll use that stick. And nothing will please him except pain, yours. Don't don't. Don't. That's what you'll say to him. Don't, Papa. Don't. And it won't do any good, Katie. Can't you see? You don't dare stay here anymore. I don't dare go.
When you went to the carnival, he didn't know where you were. He couldn't bring you back. With me, he'll know, and he will bring me back. Little sister please trust me. I tell you my plan will work but we need all day to get ready. Now stop crying. Listen to the plan.
[00:32:56] Unknown:
Ladies and gentlemen, introducing the star of Princess Connor. Step by your door platform. Step my way. And feast your eye.
[00:33:36] Unknown:
Who is this handsome gentleman who honors our little show tonight? Mister Otto Kramer, isn't it? Why ladies and gentlemen, I do believe the foremost banker of St. Louis is an admirer of the tattooed princess. Well, move on, all you lovely people. Come back to see me later right now. Dear mister Kramer wants to talk privately to his princess.
[00:34:03] Unknown:
And bankers always get their money's worth. Alright. Of course. The president is my friend. You. To the Cheat lobby right this way. Right this way.
[00:34:17] Unknown:
Good evening, papa. How generous of you to patronize the freak show a second time. Where is Katrine? And how clever of you to know that she's with me. What have you done with her? I've taken her out of bondage. Answer me. I answered. I ruin you for this. I'll have this carnival blasted off the map. Just how do you propose to do that, mister Kramer? Well show me a carnival that isn't breaking the law, underage performers,
[00:34:46] Unknown:
hovering criminals, white slavery, and now kidnapping. A dream left of her own free will. She is 16 out of age. That is kidnapping.
[00:34:54] Unknown:
Oh, dear. Dear. I never thought of that. So why haven't you called the police? What? And humiliate her? Make this vileness public?
[00:35:05] Unknown:
Now I call them after I take her away from here tonight. How is she? You think you can keep her from me?
[00:35:13] Unknown:
I've no intention of keeping her from you. You can see her at midnight after the last show. I'll see her now. You'll see her when I say you can see her. Midnight. Four hours from now. Right here in this tent. Don't try to find her. She's hidden and protected. Until then, I recommend the house of horrors. You'll feel right at
[00:35:45] Unknown:
home. Earlier this night, when Otto Kramer found his house empty, he stood murmuring Catherine's name over over and over. Can it be that in his twisted way he does love this daughter? Nevertheless, his fingers tightened on the walking stick. When he left for the carnival, he did not trouble to lock the door. What was valuable in his house already had been stolen. No admittance. Anyone who disobeys Otto Kramer must be punished.
[00:36:21] Unknown:
We'll witness someone's punishment when I return shortly with act three. I want that sinus medicine. Headache tablets? No. Sinus medicine. Sinus tablets. Helps the headache and the pressure. Oh, you mean sign off. Exactly. Headache pain is one thing. A sinus headache is something else. Mhmm. Some
[00:36:36] Unknown:
pain is one thing. A sinus headache is something else. Sometimes your whole face can seem to throb with pain. You want relief? Take sign off tablets, s I n e o f f, the sinus medicine that gives you a full dose of pure aspirin plus a sinus drainer. Synoff, the sinus medicine that helps relieve sinus pain while you drain. And Synoff doesn't stop there. Have you tried sign off sinus spray? The fastest known form of sinus congestion relief. It works in seconds. That's sign off sinus spray. When sinus flares up, use sign off tablets and spray only as directed. S I n e o f f. Sign off. Exactly. Sign off. The sinus medicines in the bright red box.
[00:37:26] Unknown:
Midnight in Madrid. We walk down the ancient street of the knife makers, Calle De Cochilleros. We open the carved wooden doors of Botin. Dear friends have gathered for two hundred fifty years to dive and talk and taste the beauty of Spanish wines. Now in another age, Mistala is here. Now in another age, Mistala is here. Mistala, the light natural rose wine created in Spain to capture a legendary flavor. Mistala imported rose, born of
[00:38:24] Unknown:
l a, Missdala, Spanish Rose.
[00:38:39] Unknown:
Midnight. The carnival toys are silent, closed down. The midway is emptying of customers departing with bright balloons and cheap prizes won in games of chance. But one customer most surely does not depart, and another game of chance is about to begin. Otto Kramer paces the dimly lighted freak tent, a walking stick gripped in his hand. In Erica's living wagon, his two daughters are no less tense than their father. Both wear long satin capes winking with sequins. Erica's purple, Catherine's red.
[00:39:20] Unknown:
You two beautiful dolls ready? Oh, Jodie, will it work? Easy, Prince is easy. It'll work. It can't.
[00:39:27] Unknown:
Oh, I I never should have come. Why not quit it, both of you? If Papa takes Kate back, it'll be worse than it was before. Will you cut it out? All those promises I made her, what was I thinking of?
[00:39:37] Unknown:
You know, I never saw you like this before. My girl has a net of 10 people, ain't scared of nothing. That's when I take chances for myself. This is for Kate. Maybe I'll hurt her instead of help. And maybe you'll give her the world by the tail. Erica, why didn't you ask the fortune teller if we should do this? Oh, for Pete's sake. Carlotta can't even predict that the sun will rise. We can't predict Papa. I wish I hadn't come. Now you won't say that when it's all over, honey. When he's bending the wheel of fortune, will it stop on Kate's number? The odds are terrible against her, Joan. I'll give you big odds. One gets you 20, the wheel spins her number. It won't. I know it won't. Oh, now damn it. We spent all day getting ready for this caper. Here it is time for the big performance you're both a mess. Alright. You wanna call it off?
Let your old man win hands down?
[00:40:24] Unknown:
Is that what you want? No. No. Never. Just the sound of the words makes me sick. Thank you for saying them. Put my head back together. Alright, Kate. I promise you all over again Papa won't want you anymore. He won't take you back. Now believe it. I will. I have to. Now can we please just get it over with? That's more like it.
[00:40:52] Unknown:
Alright. You're all set, Kate. Remember everything you're supposed to do and say now. Every single thing we rehearsed, if I can just go through with it. My money's on you, kid. You're your sister's sister. Why? I hope I can remember the part about the wings. I like that part. Let's just run over a couple of things. Princess, when you go into that tent alone, you keep the old man standing right by the entrance. Don't let him to me at Kate. I know. I know. If he moves toward us, step in between if you have to. Don't worry. Kate waits about two minutes.
That makes her entrance. Oh. It'll be the longest two minutes in the world. Well, that's why you wait till I say when. I don't want you jumping the gun. And remember, you're the one that stays close to the entrance. I will. And all the time. I'll be right outside. Ready or not, papa. Here we come.
[00:41:42] Unknown:
Hurry, hurry, hurry. Show about to begin. Hey, hey. And what a show.
[00:41:53] Unknown:
So sorry. I kept you waiting, papa. Where is Katrine? She'll be along.
[00:41:58] Unknown:
Now what new trick is this now? Such a suspicious mind, papa. Now you kept me here cooling my heels while you had a spirited away, but it will do you no good.
[00:42:09] Unknown:
You will be arrested for kidnapping and forced by the police to tell me where Catherine is. Simmer down, papa. None of that will be necessary. Kate is just primping a little. She wants to be pretty for you. Hello, papa.
[00:42:26] Unknown:
Papa. Kathleen. You will come home with me this minute and take off that cape.
[00:42:31] Unknown:
It's such a pretty cape, Papa.
[00:42:34] Unknown:
Red satin and sequin. Oh, your sister's cheap finery.
[00:42:38] Unknown:
Take it off at once. Dear papa, you sound like a customer at a burlesque show. But I warn you if Kate takes off the cape you may not like what you see. She's wearing what I wear in my act.
[00:42:52] Unknown:
A g string. Oh, Catrine. You would not.
[00:42:56] Unknown:
You don't believe it, Mom. No. Then I'll have to show you. I'll spread my cape like wings. Wings for flying. Free as a bird. And you can see if I'm as pretty as Erica. There. Look. Oh, my god. Take a good look, papa. Look, Katrine. Yes. Love you. Yes. Katrine tattooed like me. Tattooed all. Oh, no. No. Oh, tattooed daughter. What a proud father. Aren't the roses and sunsets, pray? The flags and the heart. Yeah. Put down that cane. I'll break her in two for this Kate, what? Get out. Get out. Go to my wagon. I'll finish with papa. Oh, I'm I'm sorry you don't like the pot. Jodie, go with Kate. Oh, you Put down the cane. You won't break me in two either. Kate and I have broken you. Oh, Catrine.
Catrine. Catrine tattooed. Catrine as repulsive as you find me. Can you ever bear to look at her again? No. No. Since you don't want her anymore, then she can live with me.
[00:44:11] Unknown:
So that is your game. I see now. I see. Or want her?
[00:44:18] Unknown:
No. So go home to your empty house and I wish you joy in it. I do not want her,
[00:44:25] Unknown:
but I will have her. What? I will have my daughter.
[00:44:33] Unknown:
You you'll take her back the way she is now. I will take her, and the rest of her life she will be locked away.
[00:44:42] Unknown:
She's a freak, and freaks should be hidden from the world. You can't. You can't freak. What you have made of your sister made ugly what was beautiful. I hope that you are satisfied. What you have said. Papa. Papa? Medicine. Medicine. Pocket.
[00:45:08] Unknown:
Your heart. Kate said you had a heart condition. Pocket. Pocket. Medicine. Medicine. Oh, it's a bad attack, isn't it, papa? That's very bad. What a shame because I didn't quite understand what you were saying before you fell down in the sawdust like that. I think you were saying you hope I'm satisfied? Papa. Papa. Proper. I'm satisfied. I'm very satisfied. Let medicine in your pocket. You have to take that to live, don't you? Jovie, stay outside! I'm coming out, you stay there! Oh, and Papa, you stay there As if you could do anything else I'll be back. Don't you worry.
I'll be back.
[00:46:10] Unknown:
You alright, Princess?
[00:46:12] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Yes, Jodie. You go back to Kate. You go back. What's the matter with you? Nothing's the matter. I'm saying goodbye to Papa. That's all. Go on, Jodie. Katie needs you. I don't.
[00:46:28] Unknown:
I don't like the way you sound.
[00:46:30] Unknown:
You think this is easy? The hardest thing I ever did in my life, but I have to do it alone. Now
[00:46:37] Unknown:
Now will you go? Alright. Alright. Now go.
[00:46:42] Unknown:
Can I do it? Can I? Thumper? Papa? Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Medic. Yes. I understand. You need it to live. Yes. Oh, yes, papa. I understand that too. But I I don't know that, do I? Nobody ever told me. Oh, Papa, Papa. Did you ever let Kate and me live? Did you ever give us what we needed? Now hear this, Papa. If you still have time to wonder how I can do what I will do. I learned it from you Papa. How could I possibly live with viciousness and evil and hate for nineteen years and not have some of it come off on you? No. Hurry.
Hurry. Yes. I'll hurry and tell Katie you're letting her stay. Oh, it's okay. It's your blessing. It is your blessing. Because you have to die so Kate can live. Goodbye, bye, papa. Good bye, papa. The The Prox me. Tell me again. Say it again. Papa doesn't want me. He doesn't want you. Oh, he won't take me away. No, he won't take you away now or ever. He doesn't want me all tattooed. He doesn't want you. And and and you're sure he's gone? Yes. He is gone. Poor papa. He didn't like my sunsets and flags and roses and heart Or truth or decency or kindness.
Erica. What's the matter with you? You don't sound a bit happy. I am. I am. Of course, I am little Kate. It's just that I don't like sunsets and flags and roses either. Either. Not on you. Come on. Let's wash all those pictures off. Oh. What if Papa had come close to me? What if he'd seen they were only painted on? How could he Kate? All his life Papa never saw anything. But evil and ugliness. Come on Katie. Soap, water, a scrub brush, and my little sister is as good as new.
[00:49:24] Unknown:
By now, you know it is not my custom to point a moral, but allow me just this once. Thank you. The moral is this. Erica spoke a profound truth. You cannot live with viciousness and evil and hate, and not have some of it come off on you. I'll be back shortly.
[00:49:52] Unknown:
There is a fresh new spirit sweeping the land. A free spirit that demands good products. Products that satisfy your sense of good taste and desire for economy. But above all, products that perform. Buick has been touched by this spirit. And this year our crispy designed solidly built Buicks will bring joy even to the most demanding of free spirits. The nineteen seventy five Buicks, dedicated to the free spirit in just about every
[00:50:21] Unknown:
Stanley, Myron, Handleton. Did you know you can have a college grad's career without four years of college? All you need is a year or two of technical education to work in fields like engineering, health service, automotive design, and forestry. The facts are in a free booklet called 25 technical careers in two years or less. Just write careers Washington DC Two Zero Two Zero Two.
[00:50:46] Unknown:
A public service message of this station and the advertising council. My friends, you allowed me to draw a moral from our experience tonight, a rather depressing moral, I'm afraid. So let's look at the other side of the coin, the bright side. If you live with the good, the true, and the beautiful,
[00:51:20] Unknown:
some of that will come off on you too.
[00:51:23] Unknown:
Our cast included Terry Keen, Stefan Schnabel, Rosemary Rice, and Ralph Bell. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown.
[00:51:36] Unknown:
And now
[00:51:37] Unknown:
a preview of our next
[00:51:39] Unknown:
tale. Not there. For God's sake, Charles. Why not? That's the haunted villa. You superstitious? How about that place? Anyway, it's boarded up, has been for years. But there's the house now, and maybe we can find some shelter. The door, the statue nearest the house would like to eat it. I can't look. It's as bright as molten steel. It's gone. Melted has never been. I could swear I saw that thing jump and run into the house. Oh, good. It's lighting up. Maybe it's on fire. The door is open. Welcome, stranger. Come. This is the night to be abroad.
[00:52:27] Unknown:
Welcome to the Villa Dede Square, the house of despair. Radio Mystery Theater was sponsored in part by sign off, the sinus medicines. This is EG Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time. Pleasant
[00:52:50] Unknown:
dreams?
