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In this episode, we delve into the complexities of love, loss, and the supernatural. Janie, a practical nurse, grapples with the haunting presence of her deceased boyfriend, Andy, who appears to her in dreams and visions, asking if she can forget him. As Janie struggles with guilt and the feeling of being haunted, her mother suggests seeking help from a medium, Madame Taj, to communicate with Andy's spirit. Meanwhile, Doctor Harper, a rationalist, believes Janie's experiences are self-induced, stemming from trauma and guilt over Andy's untimely death.
As the story unfolds, Janie learns that Andy's spirit may not be seeking revenge but rather urging her to move on with her life. This revelation leads Janie to confront her own feelings and the influence of her overbearing mother. Ultimately, Janie decides to take control of her life, moving out to live independently, symbolizing her journey towards healing and self-discovery. This episode explores themes of love, grief, and the power of the mind in shaping our reality.
(00:30) Introduction to the Mystery Theater
(02:01) The Girl He Left Behind: A Tale of First Love
(08:07) Andy's Proposal and Janie's Dilemma
(12:06) Tragic News: Andy's Death
(15:09) The Haunting Begins: Janie's Torment
(27:53) Seeking Answers: The Medium's Insight
(37:16) Resolution: Understanding Andy's Message
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[00:00:00]
Unknown:
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[00:00:31] Unknown:
The CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents Come in. Welcome. I'm EG Marshall. Absence makes the heart grow fonder is a popular phrase, but by no means an infallible prescription for every would be lover. But there are times when absence cannot be helped, And with the young, especially, whose minds are still impressionable, such separations can be fatal. Janey, I want you to say it again. I I've already said it. But look me in the eye and say it again. I don't love you anymore, Andy. You don't mean that. I should have written you. No. I'm glad you didn't. Why?
[00:01:37] Unknown:
You made this trip all for nothing.
[00:01:39] Unknown:
No.
[00:01:41] Unknown:
Give me the chance to see you again.
[00:01:44] Unknown:
For the last time.
[00:01:46] Unknown:
No. I know exactly what's happened, Janey,
[00:01:51] Unknown:
and it's not for the last time. Our mystery drama, The Girl He Left Behind, was written especially for the mystery theater by Percy Grainger and stars Anne Williams. I'll be back shortly with act one. It was Goethe who observed that only in first love are our senses engaged to their fullest. And thereafter, love, like anything repeatable, is no longer of the keenest pitch. Yet even in the exhilarating grip of first love, it can seem a fearful thing to follow blindly where the heart leads. For its path is swift, full of turnings, and leads we know not where.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
Janie, is that you? Yes, mother. How was your day at the hospital? Oh, we're still on the staff. Oh, this heat. Mother, is that fresh lemonade? It is. Made especially for my one and only favorite daughter. Now you sit down, put up your feet, and let me wait on you. Oh, mother, this is heaven. I don't know why you insist on staying on at that state sanatorium. They can't even afford air conditioning. Oh, you know doctor Harper needs me. Well, you've learned everything he has to teach you. You ought to move on. Now that wouldn't be fair. Well, you've got to think of yourself first, dear. Do you know what your horoscope says for this month? Oh, mother.
You know I don't believe in that stuff. Well, still, sometimes it's nice to know what the future has in store for you, especially when you're tired. Alright. What does my horoscope say? Well, that within the next four weeks, there's going to be a major change in your life. Now what could that be except a new and better job? I'm sure I don't know. Was there any mail today? Oh, I suppose there was. What do you mean you suppose? Mother? Well, you you got a letter from Andy. That's what I thought. It's been opened. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. But the mail comes so early. I just couldn't wait. This is my private life. Well, it affects me too. I'm 23 years old. I'm a practical nurse. I earn my own living. Exactly.
Which is why you're much too good for that Andy. What kind of a future does a private in the army have anyway? No. That's only for two years. And then what? He's got no ambition that I can tell and no direction. Oh, I know. He's asked for a full week's leave. He wants to drive up to see you. He writes that he has something important he wants to ask for. And we both know what that is. Well, what are you gonna say? Oh, I don't know. I hadn't expected this. Do do you love him? We've known each other so long. You don't sound very convincing. Oh, mother. All men can't be like father, can they? All men have the potential to be like your father. Irresponsible, self centered, and untraceable.
But Andy's different. Is he? You have no idea how sweet he can be. Janie, he's been in basic training for almost four months. He's lonely and homesick, and he's just out to make the most of his first big leave. Did he ever talk about marriage before he left? Yes. Oh, well, I, I certainly don't mean to interfere in this silver screen romance. It's it's your life. Put yourself in that boy's hands if that's what you wish, if you really trust him.
[00:06:13] Unknown:
Excuse me, sergeant. What is it, Nelson? No. No. No. Don't tell me. Let me guess. Well, I was, just wondering if your seven day pass was granted. It's only the third time today you bug me. Well, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to What is it, a girl?
[00:06:28] Unknown:
Well, you yes, sir. How how did you know?
[00:06:31] Unknown:
Nelson, I've been training recruits for ten years. Well, I'm I'm gonna ask her to marry me. That that is it. You're the past. You got the past.
[00:06:39] Unknown:
Oh. Really? She sorry. Thanks. Hey. Do you wanna see a picture? Do I have a choice? Well
[00:06:46] Unknown:
No. No. I didn't think so. Hey. She is very nice looking. Hey. She is a nice looking kid. Well, your girl, Oh, yeah. Now her name's Jamie, if she's a nurse. How'd you meet by accident?
[00:07:03] Unknown:
That wasn't worthy of me. Such an idea. Why don't I show you something else?
[00:07:08] Unknown:
This is the ring you're gonna give her?
[00:07:11] Unknown:
What are you, rich? How'd you afford it? I spent every cent I had on it. It's like a little flower.
[00:07:17] Unknown:
Well, the the little blue stone in the center, that's a a a cabochon sapphire, and and the petals are made of diamond chips. This girl is really something,
[00:07:26] Unknown:
Well, we've known each other ever since, well, we were in junior high school. And she loves you? Yes, sir.
[00:07:32] Unknown:
You sure? I know.
[00:07:35] Unknown:
A lot of guys get this same idea after they've been in the service a few months. And a lot of times, well, the girls, they just don't
[00:07:46] Unknown:
no longer feel the same way. Yeah. Well, I I don't agree, sir. I I don't believe people change. And I I mean, not really. Not not deep down inside. I know Janie was in love with me before I left, and I know she's still in love with me now.
[00:08:07] Unknown:
Just a minute.
[00:08:11] Unknown:
Janie. Andy?
[00:08:14] Unknown:
Oh, gosh. I've missed you. Oh, Janie. Been a long time. What's the matter? The dog this this haircut. I, I guess I, feel a kind of difference. Almost bald. Oh.
[00:08:29] Unknown:
Gee. You sure won a lot of medals. Uh-huh.
[00:08:32] Unknown:
They're for sharpshooting. Now this one here is for pistol. This one's for rifle. I'm the best marksman in the company. That's swell. Did you get my letter? Yes. I I was gonna write you. Well, that that's okay. I'm I'm here.
[00:08:47] Unknown:
Can't I come in? Oh, yes. I'm I'm sorry. Okay. Well, it's been so hot. I I guess where you are Well, you
[00:08:56] Unknown:
you know, there's, something I wanna ask you. Andy,
[00:09:01] Unknown:
before you say anything Aren't aren't we alone?
[00:09:04] Unknown:
Oh, well well, yes. Mother's gone to her bridge club. Jamie,
[00:09:10] Unknown:
you know how we feel about each other. Yes.
[00:09:14] Unknown:
Look, I've I've I've never been good with words, so I'll
[00:09:19] Unknown:
I'll just give you this
[00:09:21] Unknown:
A ring?
[00:09:22] Unknown:
You knew that's what I was talking about in the letter, didn't you? I I just didn't think you'd have already bought Well, the first weekend pass I got, I I spent it all in Atlanta looking for something that would be, you know, just right. It's pretty, And that that's your favorite shade of blue. Oh, it's lovely, Andy.
[00:09:44] Unknown:
But it's too much. It too sudden. I can't accept it. What? I should have written. Janie, what what's the matter? I'm I'm not ready for marriage, Andy.
[00:09:59] Unknown:
We don't have to get married right away. No, Andy. I
[00:10:03] Unknown:
I don't know if I'll ever be ready. I'm I'm just frightened. That's all.
[00:10:08] Unknown:
It's your mother, isn't it? What? Your mother's done this to you.
[00:10:13] Unknown:
Done what? Scared you.
[00:10:16] Unknown:
No. She doesn't like me. She never has. She thinks I've got no future. And you know why? Because my future is with you, Jamie, and she won't accept that. She can't let you go. No. That's not true. You've got to get away from her and live your own life. And we've had this talk a 100 times. Let's let's take the plunge and see where we are when the smoke clears. I can't. Jane, you've got to stop being such a shrinking violet. Your problem is you want time to stand still. You better stop trying to pretend you're still mama's little girl. I don't.
[00:10:49] Unknown:
I don't pretend that. Here. Here's your ring back.
[00:10:53] Unknown:
No. You keep it. Oh, I can't. I bought it for you.
[00:10:58] Unknown:
I'd never give it to anyone else. Besides, I want you to have something you can always remember me by.
[00:11:04] Unknown:
Well, what are you gonna do?
[00:11:09] Unknown:
Go back to the base, I guess. Oh, I've spoiled your week, haven't I? My week? Janie, if, if if ever there's anything I can do for you, I I know you haven't had much to count on from men in your life but you can count on me, Janie. Always.
[00:11:43] Unknown:
Mother, I'm home. Mother. I'm right here, Jamie. Oh, why don't you have a light on? I'm sorry I had to work late, mother. What's the matter? I'm afraid I have some bad news for you. Bad? About Andy. What's happened? There's been an accident. Andy was killed. Andy's dead? It was while he was driving back to the base. He only had a few miles to go when it happened. Oh, no. Sit down, dear. I'll I'll bring you something. Mother, are you sure? How do you know? His commanding officer called this afternoon. Why did he call us?
[00:12:30] Unknown:
But
[00:12:31] Unknown:
Andy named you the beneficiary of his insurance policy. Money? Oh, I can't take that. Oh, darling. Let's not talk about it now. Come sit down. No. He can't be dead. Oh, mother. It's my fault. You can't blame yourself. You had nothing to do with it. But I did. He'd still be here now if I hadn't said no to it. Dolly, I'll draw a nice bath for you. Don't bother. Janie, where are you going? Janie. Janie. Janie, please let me come in. Don't shut me out. Yes, mother. You can come in. Darling, what are you doing? What what's that you're wearing?
The ring he gave me. Oh, well, I I think that's a a nice gesture. I'm going to wear it forever. What? But you aren't engaged to him. No. But I am now. But he's dead. I was wrong to refuse him. I never should have listened to you. Me? You turned me against who that is absolutely not true. I pointed out certain facts. That's all. But the choice I left entirely up to you. Oh, I know. I'm sorry, mother. I have no one to blame but myself. But you mustn't do that either. Oh, Janie. Oh, what happened? The ring, it it twisted around on my finger all by itself like like it was trying to come off. Look. You you you've cut yourself.
Take it off at once. No. No. I'll never take it off. I don't care what happened. Now Andy wanted me to have this and I'm I'm gonna wear it forever.
[00:14:20] Unknown:
It is a natural desire to grieve for the departed for it satisfies something in us. But does it satisfy the dead? No one has ever thought to ask them how they feel, perhaps because of the conventional assumption that the dead are no longer with us. But there are times when the dead refuse to play their customary passive role. Is this one of those times? And if so, just what does the spirit of Andy Nelson have in mind for the girl who jilted him? That we won't know until I return with act two. How much power do the dead have over the living? Much of the dead's influence is, of course, in our own minds as sorrow or guilt or a host of other emotions that continue to churn long after the grass is on the grave. But who says the dead are any more willing or able to call it a day than we are?
[00:15:36] Unknown:
Missus Raymond? Oh, doctor Harper. I'm so glad you were able to stop by. Please, come in. Aye. Yeah.
[00:15:44] Unknown:
We miss Janie at the hospital today. Is she ill? I
[00:15:49] Unknown:
I don't know. Oh, where is she now? In her room taking a nap. The poor girl hasn't had a decent night's sleep since that boy's death. Jamie mentioned that. He was a boyfriend. Oh, in a way, I suppose. They hadn't seen each other in months. Now it's as if he were deliberately trying to torment her. I'm sure Janie feels badly about what happened. Oh, it's not just depression, doctor. There's definitely some force working on her. How do you mean? Well, something follows her about.
[00:16:24] Unknown:
There's a terror that comes into her eyes. Well, to tell you the truth, missus Raymond, I hadn't really noticed it. But you work with her twelve hours a day. I've seen nothing of the nature you describe or mere
[00:16:36] Unknown:
general depression. But are you saying I'm I'm imagining all this?
[00:16:41] Unknown:
Can you tell me more specifically what's been happening?
[00:16:45] Unknown:
Well, for one thing, she has a recurring dream. Oh, is there nothing unusual in that? But she insists it isn't a dream at all, that it actually happens. And then there's the ring. What ring? Oh, you must have noticed that, doctor. It's on the fourth finger of her left hand, the engagement finger. She insists on wearing it even though she Now just a moment, missus Raymond.
[00:17:08] Unknown:
Tell me about the dream first. What happens?
[00:17:13] Unknown:
Oh, dear. Is that Jane? Yes. Come quickly. Oh, yes. This is what happens every time she tries to sleep. Oh, Janie. Oh, Janie. Oh, baby. Don't worry. Mama's here, darling. Well, then have it again. That's alright, dearest. Hello, Janie? Oh, doctor.
[00:17:34] Unknown:
Why are you here? Your mother asked me to come by.
[00:17:37] Unknown:
Oh, mom, please don't fuck. Look at you. You're you're perspiring. You had that dream again, didn't you? It's not a dream.
[00:17:46] Unknown:
Room really does change.
[00:17:48] Unknown:
Janie, would you tell me what happens? Andy comes to see me. Andy is the boy who was killed? Yes.
[00:17:58] Unknown:
I know it's real because everything changes. The room, it it becomes completely white. The the windows and doors disappear. There's no way out. And then suddenly Andy is here, right next to me. And? He holds out his hand. What does he want? He wants that ring she insists on wearing and I think she ought to give it to him. Missus Raymond, please. Janie? He wants the ring.
[00:18:29] Unknown:
And when I refuse to give it back, he tries to grab it off.
[00:18:33] Unknown:
And then I scream. And the room changes back and Andy vanishes? Yes. But it's not a dream. I swear. Why won't you give him the ring?
[00:18:46] Unknown:
Because I promised him I'd wear it forever. Why? He asked me to marry him the night before he was killed. I said no. Now he's dead. May I see your hand? Yes. Oh, it hurts. Oh, no wonder. Have you looked at your finger? What's wrong with her finger?
[00:19:10] Unknown:
Oh, it it it's covered with abrasions. Why haven't you taken care of these wounds, Janie? I don't blame him. Not after the way I treated him. Missus Raymond, would you bring me my bag? I left it out by the front door. Yes, doctor. Right away. Janie, I want you to remove that ring. But I can't. Your finger's already becoming infected. Now, come on. Give me the ring. I'll put it here on your bureau where you can see it. Okay. Oh. Good lord. It's all twisted out of shape. I told you. Andy tries to wrench it off. Andy did nothing. You've done this to yourself. As a nurse, you ought to know better. Yes, sir.
You blame yourself, Andy's death. Don't you? Yes. Obviously, these lacerations are a form of atonement. You commit them unconsciously while you're asleep. Oh, doctor. Here here's your bag. Oh, thank you. But I'm not asleep. Jamie, you've seen cases like this at the sanatorium.
[00:20:18] Unknown:
You you think I'm going crazy?
[00:20:23] Unknown:
Oh, I think you're overwrought. Doctor, can't you just give her some medicine? I think it might be better if we gave her a complete physical examination then ran a few other tests.
[00:20:34] Unknown:
You you mean mental tests?
[00:20:37] Unknown:
Well, yes. You do think I'm crazy, don't you? Janie. No, Janie. And at this point, I'm not sure what to think except to hope that whatever it is will pass with time. That sedative should allow her to get a decent night's rest, missus Raymond. And if you ask me, that's half the problem right there,
[00:21:05] Unknown:
exhaustion. You you didn't know Andy Nelson, doctor. He seemed like just another ingenuous young man, but his aura was bright red. His aura? The light field that surrounds each of us, it can only be detected by the practiced eye, and its color indicates our true personality. There was a deep vein of vindictive spite in that boy's soul. I knew he hated me. Do you believe in the supernatural? Oh, you saw that ring yourself. Janie hasn't the strength to twist it the way it was. She might in a moment of extreme anguish.
[00:21:44] Unknown:
You mean she might deliberately be deceiving me? Deceiving herself as well, missus Raymond. And it's not going to help matters much if you keep talking about ghosts. Janie obviously puts great store by what you say. You think she does? Really? The point is she is suggestible, so don't. Good day, missus Raymond. Oh, and, don't keep her home from the hospital anymore. The distraction of her work is probably the best thing for her right now. But doctor,
[00:22:21] Unknown:
how did you know it was I who insisted she stay home? What's the matter, dear? Is the deal not done well enough? Mother, please. What? Please stop looking at me like that. Like what? Just stop looking. Oh, I'm sorry. I I don't know what made me speak to you like that. Darling, soon this will all be over. Everything will be like it was before. Won't it, sweetheart? Yes, mother. I'm sorry. What on earth was that? I don't know. It it sounded like it came from your room. Oh, it's your bureau. It's fallen over. The ring. Where's the ring? What? It was on top of the bureau.
It's gone, but it must be here on the floor somewhere. Where is it, mother? What? Where did you hide it? I didn't touch it. How can we go on living together if there's nothing but suspicion between us? The suspicion, young lady, seems to be all on your side. Never wanted me to keep that ring. You didn't want me to have anything that will remind me of Andy. Who are in? And how did I manage to knock over the bureau? Can you answer me that? I I think you have powers, mother. Powers? What kind of powers? You have power over me. Oh, don't be silly. You do. Your obsession with witchcraft. Witchcraft? You're full of horoscopes and auras and and and the occult. Oh, that's not witchcraft. You're using your powers to control me. Janie, I promise you I had nothing to do with the disappearance of Andy's ring. I think you did.
It's not Andy's ghost at all. It's it's you trying to make me believe it is. Trying to to turn me against you. What cause have I ever given you to speak to me in that that tone of voice? You are a manipulative, selfish, and a a deeply evil woman, But you'll never make me forget Andy. Never.
[00:24:24] Unknown:
Missus Raymond, I'm sure Amy's actions are the result of nothing more than nerves. Yes. But what about that bureau?
[00:24:33] Unknown:
We were in the living room and it fell over, and the ring just disappeared altogether.
[00:24:38] Unknown:
Well, Science has no satisfactory explanation for such phenomena, but it's by no means a rare occurrence. Oh, why is she so bitter towards me? The tests are almost complete. There seems to be nothing wrong with her physically, and I'll have the psychological data fully analyzed by tomorrow afternoon. But I think we're going to find only an overactive imagination fueled by guilt. Excuse me for a moment.
[00:25:09] Unknown:
Doctor Hopper? Oh, Jimmy. What is it? Can I speak to your mom, sir? Yes. This is missus Raymond. This is Jimmy Wood, one of our interns.
[00:25:18] Unknown:
You're Janie's mother? Yes. Why, has something happened to her? Well What? What is it?
[00:25:27] Unknown:
She's in the dining room.
[00:25:31] Unknown:
There she is. Janie? Janie, can you hear me? Yes. Janie, what happened? I heard him. What do you mean? Heard who?
[00:25:47] Unknown:
Andy. I heard his voice.
[00:25:51] Unknown:
He spoke to me. Well, she was going through the cafeteria line when suddenly she dropped her tree and went into a trance. He spoke to me.
[00:26:01] Unknown:
What did he say?
[00:26:04] Unknown:
Can you forget me?
[00:26:06] Unknown:
Hallucinations.
[00:26:07] Unknown:
No. Well, several other people also claimed they heard the voice. Who? Well, some of the patients.
[00:26:15] Unknown:
The patients in this ward are all mentally disturbed and highly suggestible. I think they can discount what they say. Don't you, Jimmy?
[00:26:23] Unknown:
This time I was wide awake. I know I wasn't dreaming, and I heard his boy. Oh, Janie. Janie, listen to me. We're gonna do everything that's necessary to help you.
[00:26:37] Unknown:
I don't think you can help me, ma'am. I don't think anyone can ever help me again.
[00:26:53] Unknown:
Set me like a seal upon thy heart. Love is as strong as death, says the poet. At this moment, Andy seems more like a vice than a seal on Janie's heart, and he sits there with what it seems could hardly be called love. In life, he was an ingenuous enough fellow. Could he be so changed in death? Well, death is often compared to sleep, and we all know our dreams are notoriously amoral. So perhaps the dead are likewise bereft of scruple. And if that is so, Janie Raymond might not be in for a very pleasant time. I shall return in a moment with our final act. Andy's spirit seems determined to exact satisfaction from the torment of Janie, but just what kind of satisfaction is he seeking?
He's been rather vague about what it is he would like, which is hardly encouraging, For we all know if a spirit walks abroad, it is because it is unsettled, and it will not return to the grave until it has found peace.
[00:28:17] Unknown:
Mother? Oh, yes, dear. I'm right here. Where am I? At home. Where? Janie, what's the matter? You're you're in your own room. I I don't know. For a minute, it looked strange. Strange? Like a place I've never been before. It must have been the effects of the sedative that doctor Harper gave you at the hospital. Doctor Harper wanted to keep you at the hospital. Why didn't you let him? I told him the best place for you was right in your own bed. Oh, I'm I'm scared. There's nothing to worry about now. You're with me, dear. You're safe. No, baby.
[00:29:00] Unknown:
Did do you think I'm going crazy? Hush. Martha,
[00:29:05] Unknown:
what if it's true? It's not true. It's simply not possible. You're my daughter, my precious one and only.
[00:29:15] Unknown:
I see his face. I I hear his voice. He he pursues me. I'm I'm so tired. I can barely stand up and scared to close my eyes because I know he'll be there. Well, you can rest now, sweetheart.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
Now doctor Harper says he'll have the results of all these tests tomorrow. Those tests won't show anything. It can't show what's happening. Nothing can no one.
[00:29:44] Unknown:
No, but I'm alone. I'm completely alone. None of you can do anything.
[00:29:50] Unknown:
Janie. Darling, you're distressed. I want you to lie back. Oh, mother. Mother, your voice feels so good. Please forgive me. I didn't mean what I said. Oh, it's alright, dear. Say anything you want. It doesn't matter. Oh, you are a good person. I'm sorry about all those terrible things I said before about about you being wicked and evil. Oh, you're a saint to put up with me. Shh. Now you know you're a very lucky girl. Why? Well, look how Andy's spirit is behaving, showing his true colors if you ask me. He's being petty and vindictive. He's nothing but but a jealous ghost. I don't know. It's just not like it.
I almost feel like I'm beginning to hate it. Oh, I don't think that's necessary, but it does seem obvious that he doesn't love you very much. Think if you'd accepted his proposal. Think if you'd actually been married. That would have been a fine time to discover the truth. Mother? Yes, dear. Maybe maybe I should move out. What? Well, if if Andy is going to make my life miserable, I don't want you subjected to it. Why, I'm sure that's exactly what he'd like. We shouldn't give him the satisfaction. We must stand together and conquer him. But what can we do? Well, I I know you've never had the faith that I do, but perhaps if you'd make the effort. What do you mean?
Darling, I want you to come with me tomorrow morning to Madame Taj's. You mean that old woman witch you go to? She's not a witch, Janie. She's a medium, a clairvoyant. She's a person of extraordinary powers. I'm supposed to see doctor Harper tomorrow. Oh, that's not till the afternoon. Besides, I think you're quite right. What we're dealing with here is far beyond the limited gain of medical science. Madam is highly skilled at contacting the spirits of the departed. You mean she could talk directly to Andy? Yes. And you think she could make Andy stop tormenting me? Quite possibly.
You see, Janie, I can help you. Who knows? If you came to respect madame as I do, it might might bring us closer together than ever. Well, come on in. Don't be afraid. Mother? This looks just like a normal person's house. Of course. Mediums aren't any different from you or me. They're simply endowed with unique powers which they have disciplined. There's no reason not to act perfectly normal. But shouldn't you have knocked before we came in? No need. Madame knows who it is. Hello, missus Raymond? And this is your daughter, Jamie, is it not?
How do you do? I believe the question is how do you do? Your mother has explained to me the reason why you are here. Yes. I do. Will you come this way, please? Oh, yes. I am sorry, missus Raymond, but you know how I work. I must be with your daughter alone. You're skeptical, aren't you? Well, I It's alright. Just don't waste energy feeling apologetic. Your concentration will be needed elsewhere. Please be seated. What are you going to do? Your mother explained as much of the problem as I needed to know. You are troubled by the spirit of a departed friend?
He was my boyfriend. Oh, well, I can definitely sense another presence in the room. You can? It arrived within moments after we entered. Well, this is most strange. What? Your mother had led me to believe that this was an evil spirit, but the pulse I feel from it is quite calm. I see nothing but white light. What does that mean? That he intends no harm. Then flash, he he is weeping. Crying? Yes. But not in the moss. The sensations I am receiving are those of sadness. Tell me, Janey, in what ways has this spirit made itself known to you? It took away a ring, and it said I could keep forever. Oh. Oh.
[00:34:55] Unknown:
What is it? There above your head. It's this face just like yesterday at the hospital. Yes. I see. Do you? Then I'm I'm not crazy. I'm Janie,
[00:35:13] Unknown:
it's it's gone now. He spoke to you, didn't he? Yes. And what did he say? Same thing he said yesterday. Can you forget me? You see, he taunts me. Do you say that in life this boy loved you? Oh, I thought he did. But I guess mother was right about men. Oh, all the symptoms are those of the spirit seeking revenge, yet there is no trace of hatred, only sorrow. What other explanation could there be for his actions? I don't know. You must think, girl. Nothing is done without cause. Whatever he is doing, he is definitely doing with affection.
And since that is the emotion the two of you shared in life, if you look deeply enough into yourself, you will find the meaning. Well, what? You haven't said a word since we left madame's. Oh, I thought maybe I wasn't supposed to talk about it. You can talk to me. Obviously, something happened that was food for thought. Madame Tash didn't have any answers if that's what you're asking. But what happened? Was she able to contact Andy's spirit? Yes. And? Mother, I don't know.
[00:37:02] Unknown:
There was nothing conclusive. Oh, here's the buzz. But Jamie Can we just not talk about it?
[00:37:17] Unknown:
Good afternoon, Jamie, missus Raymond. Good afternoon, doctor Harper. Will it please be seated? Oh, thank you. Well, as I suspected, Jamie, there's nothing seriously wrong. Physically, you're in perfect health. And and mentally? And, essentially, she's quite sound. I am? You were traumatized by Andy's death. That's all. The trance you went into yesterday when he told you not to forget him. Oh, those weren't his exact words. No. The exact words don't matter. The point is it was clearly self induced just as the lacerations with the ring were self induced. Andy isn't hounding you, Janie.
You're hounding yourself. If you can stop blaming yourself for his death, I predict you'd be fully recovered within a day or two. But how can I control my feelings? Well, maybe this will help. But what is it? A report of the officer who was at the scene of the accident. Apparently, there was another car involved. Another car? Operated by a man who had been drinking heavily. He veered into Andy's lane. A witness said Andy never had a chance. No one would have.
[00:38:34] Unknown:
But I wasn't responsible?
[00:38:37] Unknown:
No. Andy has no hold over you whatsoever. None.
[00:38:45] Unknown:
No. No. Jamie, what is it? Didn't you hear what the doctor said? I swear I don't understand you at all. Janie, where are you going? He he's the bus stop. I think I'll walk home. Oh, well, it's a nice day. Of course. Why not? I mean, I want to walk home alone.
[00:39:13] Unknown:
Oh,
[00:39:14] Unknown:
doctor Harper was wrong about one thing, mother. And he has been with me every moment since he died. I know that. Doctor Harper is well intentioned, but he's a man of limited vision. But it's only now I realize why. What what do you mean? He appeared to me again at at madame Taj's. And he spoke the same words as before. Can you forget me? Doctor Harper was wrong about that too. The exact words do matter. And he wasn't trying to punish me. He he was asking me to forget him. Oh, well, the boy had more sense than I thought. That's why he took his ring away.
He was telling me not to cling to him, but to to go out and live my life. But you are living your life. No, mother. Not yet. Not my own life. But I'm going to start. You mean you want to start seeing more young men? I'm going to move out, mother. Move out? Yes. You hate me, don't you? No, mother. I don't hate you. I'm just going to your house to pack my things.
[00:40:41] Unknown:
How hard it can be to know our own minds when those who have our best interests at heart smother us with their affection. For where is the blame in love? Yet love, as Plato said, is need. And in our need, we are often less than perfect. But then to complete the circuit of our reasoning on an irrational subject, is it not our very imperfections which often make us lovable? I shall return in a moment with a final word. Was it really Andy's spirit which prodded Janie Raymond out of the womb, or were the signs which beset her the externalization of her own deepest instincts?
In a way, it hardly matters. The important thing was it was necessary or either we grow or we die. Our cast included Anne Williams, Jack Grimes, Greiner Raven, and Robert Dryden. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. This is EG Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time, pleasant
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[00:00:19] Unknown:
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[00:00:31] Unknown:
The CBS Radio Mystery Theater presents Come in. Welcome. I'm EG Marshall. Absence makes the heart grow fonder is a popular phrase, but by no means an infallible prescription for every would be lover. But there are times when absence cannot be helped, And with the young, especially, whose minds are still impressionable, such separations can be fatal. Janey, I want you to say it again. I I've already said it. But look me in the eye and say it again. I don't love you anymore, Andy. You don't mean that. I should have written you. No. I'm glad you didn't. Why?
[00:01:37] Unknown:
You made this trip all for nothing.
[00:01:39] Unknown:
No.
[00:01:41] Unknown:
Give me the chance to see you again.
[00:01:44] Unknown:
For the last time.
[00:01:46] Unknown:
No. I know exactly what's happened, Janey,
[00:01:51] Unknown:
and it's not for the last time. Our mystery drama, The Girl He Left Behind, was written especially for the mystery theater by Percy Grainger and stars Anne Williams. I'll be back shortly with act one. It was Goethe who observed that only in first love are our senses engaged to their fullest. And thereafter, love, like anything repeatable, is no longer of the keenest pitch. Yet even in the exhilarating grip of first love, it can seem a fearful thing to follow blindly where the heart leads. For its path is swift, full of turnings, and leads we know not where.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
Janie, is that you? Yes, mother. How was your day at the hospital? Oh, we're still on the staff. Oh, this heat. Mother, is that fresh lemonade? It is. Made especially for my one and only favorite daughter. Now you sit down, put up your feet, and let me wait on you. Oh, mother, this is heaven. I don't know why you insist on staying on at that state sanatorium. They can't even afford air conditioning. Oh, you know doctor Harper needs me. Well, you've learned everything he has to teach you. You ought to move on. Now that wouldn't be fair. Well, you've got to think of yourself first, dear. Do you know what your horoscope says for this month? Oh, mother.
You know I don't believe in that stuff. Well, still, sometimes it's nice to know what the future has in store for you, especially when you're tired. Alright. What does my horoscope say? Well, that within the next four weeks, there's going to be a major change in your life. Now what could that be except a new and better job? I'm sure I don't know. Was there any mail today? Oh, I suppose there was. What do you mean you suppose? Mother? Well, you you got a letter from Andy. That's what I thought. It's been opened. Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry. But the mail comes so early. I just couldn't wait. This is my private life. Well, it affects me too. I'm 23 years old. I'm a practical nurse. I earn my own living. Exactly.
Which is why you're much too good for that Andy. What kind of a future does a private in the army have anyway? No. That's only for two years. And then what? He's got no ambition that I can tell and no direction. Oh, I know. He's asked for a full week's leave. He wants to drive up to see you. He writes that he has something important he wants to ask for. And we both know what that is. Well, what are you gonna say? Oh, I don't know. I hadn't expected this. Do do you love him? We've known each other so long. You don't sound very convincing. Oh, mother. All men can't be like father, can they? All men have the potential to be like your father. Irresponsible, self centered, and untraceable.
But Andy's different. Is he? You have no idea how sweet he can be. Janie, he's been in basic training for almost four months. He's lonely and homesick, and he's just out to make the most of his first big leave. Did he ever talk about marriage before he left? Yes. Oh, well, I, I certainly don't mean to interfere in this silver screen romance. It's it's your life. Put yourself in that boy's hands if that's what you wish, if you really trust him.
[00:06:13] Unknown:
Excuse me, sergeant. What is it, Nelson? No. No. No. Don't tell me. Let me guess. Well, I was, just wondering if your seven day pass was granted. It's only the third time today you bug me. Well, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to What is it, a girl?
[00:06:28] Unknown:
Well, you yes, sir. How how did you know?
[00:06:31] Unknown:
Nelson, I've been training recruits for ten years. Well, I'm I'm gonna ask her to marry me. That that is it. You're the past. You got the past.
[00:06:39] Unknown:
Oh. Really? She sorry. Thanks. Hey. Do you wanna see a picture? Do I have a choice? Well
[00:06:46] Unknown:
No. No. I didn't think so. Hey. She is very nice looking. Hey. She is a nice looking kid. Well, your girl, Oh, yeah. Now her name's Jamie, if she's a nurse. How'd you meet by accident?
[00:07:03] Unknown:
That wasn't worthy of me. Such an idea. Why don't I show you something else?
[00:07:08] Unknown:
This is the ring you're gonna give her?
[00:07:11] Unknown:
What are you, rich? How'd you afford it? I spent every cent I had on it. It's like a little flower.
[00:07:17] Unknown:
Well, the the little blue stone in the center, that's a a a cabochon sapphire, and and the petals are made of diamond chips. This girl is really something,
[00:07:26] Unknown:
Well, we've known each other ever since, well, we were in junior high school. And she loves you? Yes, sir.
[00:07:32] Unknown:
You sure? I know.
[00:07:35] Unknown:
A lot of guys get this same idea after they've been in the service a few months. And a lot of times, well, the girls, they just don't
[00:07:46] Unknown:
no longer feel the same way. Yeah. Well, I I don't agree, sir. I I don't believe people change. And I I mean, not really. Not not deep down inside. I know Janie was in love with me before I left, and I know she's still in love with me now.
[00:08:07] Unknown:
Just a minute.
[00:08:11] Unknown:
Janie. Andy?
[00:08:14] Unknown:
Oh, gosh. I've missed you. Oh, Janie. Been a long time. What's the matter? The dog this this haircut. I, I guess I, feel a kind of difference. Almost bald. Oh.
[00:08:29] Unknown:
Gee. You sure won a lot of medals. Uh-huh.
[00:08:32] Unknown:
They're for sharpshooting. Now this one here is for pistol. This one's for rifle. I'm the best marksman in the company. That's swell. Did you get my letter? Yes. I I was gonna write you. Well, that that's okay. I'm I'm here.
[00:08:47] Unknown:
Can't I come in? Oh, yes. I'm I'm sorry. Okay. Well, it's been so hot. I I guess where you are Well, you
[00:08:56] Unknown:
you know, there's, something I wanna ask you. Andy,
[00:09:01] Unknown:
before you say anything Aren't aren't we alone?
[00:09:04] Unknown:
Oh, well well, yes. Mother's gone to her bridge club. Jamie,
[00:09:10] Unknown:
you know how we feel about each other. Yes.
[00:09:14] Unknown:
Look, I've I've I've never been good with words, so I'll
[00:09:19] Unknown:
I'll just give you this
[00:09:21] Unknown:
A ring?
[00:09:22] Unknown:
You knew that's what I was talking about in the letter, didn't you? I I just didn't think you'd have already bought Well, the first weekend pass I got, I I spent it all in Atlanta looking for something that would be, you know, just right. It's pretty, And that that's your favorite shade of blue. Oh, it's lovely, Andy.
[00:09:44] Unknown:
But it's too much. It too sudden. I can't accept it. What? I should have written. Janie, what what's the matter? I'm I'm not ready for marriage, Andy.
[00:09:59] Unknown:
We don't have to get married right away. No, Andy. I
[00:10:03] Unknown:
I don't know if I'll ever be ready. I'm I'm just frightened. That's all.
[00:10:08] Unknown:
It's your mother, isn't it? What? Your mother's done this to you.
[00:10:13] Unknown:
Done what? Scared you.
[00:10:16] Unknown:
No. She doesn't like me. She never has. She thinks I've got no future. And you know why? Because my future is with you, Jamie, and she won't accept that. She can't let you go. No. That's not true. You've got to get away from her and live your own life. And we've had this talk a 100 times. Let's let's take the plunge and see where we are when the smoke clears. I can't. Jane, you've got to stop being such a shrinking violet. Your problem is you want time to stand still. You better stop trying to pretend you're still mama's little girl. I don't.
[00:10:49] Unknown:
I don't pretend that. Here. Here's your ring back.
[00:10:53] Unknown:
No. You keep it. Oh, I can't. I bought it for you.
[00:10:58] Unknown:
I'd never give it to anyone else. Besides, I want you to have something you can always remember me by.
[00:11:04] Unknown:
Well, what are you gonna do?
[00:11:09] Unknown:
Go back to the base, I guess. Oh, I've spoiled your week, haven't I? My week? Janie, if, if if ever there's anything I can do for you, I I know you haven't had much to count on from men in your life but you can count on me, Janie. Always.
[00:11:43] Unknown:
Mother, I'm home. Mother. I'm right here, Jamie. Oh, why don't you have a light on? I'm sorry I had to work late, mother. What's the matter? I'm afraid I have some bad news for you. Bad? About Andy. What's happened? There's been an accident. Andy was killed. Andy's dead? It was while he was driving back to the base. He only had a few miles to go when it happened. Oh, no. Sit down, dear. I'll I'll bring you something. Mother, are you sure? How do you know? His commanding officer called this afternoon. Why did he call us?
[00:12:30] Unknown:
But
[00:12:31] Unknown:
Andy named you the beneficiary of his insurance policy. Money? Oh, I can't take that. Oh, darling. Let's not talk about it now. Come sit down. No. He can't be dead. Oh, mother. It's my fault. You can't blame yourself. You had nothing to do with it. But I did. He'd still be here now if I hadn't said no to it. Dolly, I'll draw a nice bath for you. Don't bother. Janie, where are you going? Janie. Janie. Janie, please let me come in. Don't shut me out. Yes, mother. You can come in. Darling, what are you doing? What what's that you're wearing?
The ring he gave me. Oh, well, I I think that's a a nice gesture. I'm going to wear it forever. What? But you aren't engaged to him. No. But I am now. But he's dead. I was wrong to refuse him. I never should have listened to you. Me? You turned me against who that is absolutely not true. I pointed out certain facts. That's all. But the choice I left entirely up to you. Oh, I know. I'm sorry, mother. I have no one to blame but myself. But you mustn't do that either. Oh, Janie. Oh, what happened? The ring, it it twisted around on my finger all by itself like like it was trying to come off. Look. You you you've cut yourself.
Take it off at once. No. No. I'll never take it off. I don't care what happened. Now Andy wanted me to have this and I'm I'm gonna wear it forever.
[00:14:20] Unknown:
It is a natural desire to grieve for the departed for it satisfies something in us. But does it satisfy the dead? No one has ever thought to ask them how they feel, perhaps because of the conventional assumption that the dead are no longer with us. But there are times when the dead refuse to play their customary passive role. Is this one of those times? And if so, just what does the spirit of Andy Nelson have in mind for the girl who jilted him? That we won't know until I return with act two. How much power do the dead have over the living? Much of the dead's influence is, of course, in our own minds as sorrow or guilt or a host of other emotions that continue to churn long after the grass is on the grave. But who says the dead are any more willing or able to call it a day than we are?
[00:15:36] Unknown:
Missus Raymond? Oh, doctor Harper. I'm so glad you were able to stop by. Please, come in. Aye. Yeah.
[00:15:44] Unknown:
We miss Janie at the hospital today. Is she ill? I
[00:15:49] Unknown:
I don't know. Oh, where is she now? In her room taking a nap. The poor girl hasn't had a decent night's sleep since that boy's death. Jamie mentioned that. He was a boyfriend. Oh, in a way, I suppose. They hadn't seen each other in months. Now it's as if he were deliberately trying to torment her. I'm sure Janie feels badly about what happened. Oh, it's not just depression, doctor. There's definitely some force working on her. How do you mean? Well, something follows her about.
[00:16:24] Unknown:
There's a terror that comes into her eyes. Well, to tell you the truth, missus Raymond, I hadn't really noticed it. But you work with her twelve hours a day. I've seen nothing of the nature you describe or mere
[00:16:36] Unknown:
general depression. But are you saying I'm I'm imagining all this?
[00:16:41] Unknown:
Can you tell me more specifically what's been happening?
[00:16:45] Unknown:
Well, for one thing, she has a recurring dream. Oh, is there nothing unusual in that? But she insists it isn't a dream at all, that it actually happens. And then there's the ring. What ring? Oh, you must have noticed that, doctor. It's on the fourth finger of her left hand, the engagement finger. She insists on wearing it even though she Now just a moment, missus Raymond.
[00:17:08] Unknown:
Tell me about the dream first. What happens?
[00:17:13] Unknown:
Oh, dear. Is that Jane? Yes. Come quickly. Oh, yes. This is what happens every time she tries to sleep. Oh, Janie. Oh, Janie. Oh, baby. Don't worry. Mama's here, darling. Well, then have it again. That's alright, dearest. Hello, Janie? Oh, doctor.
[00:17:34] Unknown:
Why are you here? Your mother asked me to come by.
[00:17:37] Unknown:
Oh, mom, please don't fuck. Look at you. You're you're perspiring. You had that dream again, didn't you? It's not a dream.
[00:17:46] Unknown:
Room really does change.
[00:17:48] Unknown:
Janie, would you tell me what happens? Andy comes to see me. Andy is the boy who was killed? Yes.
[00:17:58] Unknown:
I know it's real because everything changes. The room, it it becomes completely white. The the windows and doors disappear. There's no way out. And then suddenly Andy is here, right next to me. And? He holds out his hand. What does he want? He wants that ring she insists on wearing and I think she ought to give it to him. Missus Raymond, please. Janie? He wants the ring.
[00:18:29] Unknown:
And when I refuse to give it back, he tries to grab it off.
[00:18:33] Unknown:
And then I scream. And the room changes back and Andy vanishes? Yes. But it's not a dream. I swear. Why won't you give him the ring?
[00:18:46] Unknown:
Because I promised him I'd wear it forever. Why? He asked me to marry him the night before he was killed. I said no. Now he's dead. May I see your hand? Yes. Oh, it hurts. Oh, no wonder. Have you looked at your finger? What's wrong with her finger?
[00:19:10] Unknown:
Oh, it it it's covered with abrasions. Why haven't you taken care of these wounds, Janie? I don't blame him. Not after the way I treated him. Missus Raymond, would you bring me my bag? I left it out by the front door. Yes, doctor. Right away. Janie, I want you to remove that ring. But I can't. Your finger's already becoming infected. Now, come on. Give me the ring. I'll put it here on your bureau where you can see it. Okay. Oh. Good lord. It's all twisted out of shape. I told you. Andy tries to wrench it off. Andy did nothing. You've done this to yourself. As a nurse, you ought to know better. Yes, sir.
You blame yourself, Andy's death. Don't you? Yes. Obviously, these lacerations are a form of atonement. You commit them unconsciously while you're asleep. Oh, doctor. Here here's your bag. Oh, thank you. But I'm not asleep. Jamie, you've seen cases like this at the sanatorium.
[00:20:18] Unknown:
You you think I'm going crazy?
[00:20:23] Unknown:
Oh, I think you're overwrought. Doctor, can't you just give her some medicine? I think it might be better if we gave her a complete physical examination then ran a few other tests.
[00:20:34] Unknown:
You you mean mental tests?
[00:20:37] Unknown:
Well, yes. You do think I'm crazy, don't you? Janie. No, Janie. And at this point, I'm not sure what to think except to hope that whatever it is will pass with time. That sedative should allow her to get a decent night's rest, missus Raymond. And if you ask me, that's half the problem right there,
[00:21:05] Unknown:
exhaustion. You you didn't know Andy Nelson, doctor. He seemed like just another ingenuous young man, but his aura was bright red. His aura? The light field that surrounds each of us, it can only be detected by the practiced eye, and its color indicates our true personality. There was a deep vein of vindictive spite in that boy's soul. I knew he hated me. Do you believe in the supernatural? Oh, you saw that ring yourself. Janie hasn't the strength to twist it the way it was. She might in a moment of extreme anguish.
[00:21:44] Unknown:
You mean she might deliberately be deceiving me? Deceiving herself as well, missus Raymond. And it's not going to help matters much if you keep talking about ghosts. Janie obviously puts great store by what you say. You think she does? Really? The point is she is suggestible, so don't. Good day, missus Raymond. Oh, and, don't keep her home from the hospital anymore. The distraction of her work is probably the best thing for her right now. But doctor,
[00:22:21] Unknown:
how did you know it was I who insisted she stay home? What's the matter, dear? Is the deal not done well enough? Mother, please. What? Please stop looking at me like that. Like what? Just stop looking. Oh, I'm sorry. I I don't know what made me speak to you like that. Darling, soon this will all be over. Everything will be like it was before. Won't it, sweetheart? Yes, mother. I'm sorry. What on earth was that? I don't know. It it sounded like it came from your room. Oh, it's your bureau. It's fallen over. The ring. Where's the ring? What? It was on top of the bureau.
It's gone, but it must be here on the floor somewhere. Where is it, mother? What? Where did you hide it? I didn't touch it. How can we go on living together if there's nothing but suspicion between us? The suspicion, young lady, seems to be all on your side. Never wanted me to keep that ring. You didn't want me to have anything that will remind me of Andy. Who are in? And how did I manage to knock over the bureau? Can you answer me that? I I think you have powers, mother. Powers? What kind of powers? You have power over me. Oh, don't be silly. You do. Your obsession with witchcraft. Witchcraft? You're full of horoscopes and auras and and and the occult. Oh, that's not witchcraft. You're using your powers to control me. Janie, I promise you I had nothing to do with the disappearance of Andy's ring. I think you did.
It's not Andy's ghost at all. It's it's you trying to make me believe it is. Trying to to turn me against you. What cause have I ever given you to speak to me in that that tone of voice? You are a manipulative, selfish, and a a deeply evil woman, But you'll never make me forget Andy. Never.
[00:24:24] Unknown:
Missus Raymond, I'm sure Amy's actions are the result of nothing more than nerves. Yes. But what about that bureau?
[00:24:33] Unknown:
We were in the living room and it fell over, and the ring just disappeared altogether.
[00:24:38] Unknown:
Well, Science has no satisfactory explanation for such phenomena, but it's by no means a rare occurrence. Oh, why is she so bitter towards me? The tests are almost complete. There seems to be nothing wrong with her physically, and I'll have the psychological data fully analyzed by tomorrow afternoon. But I think we're going to find only an overactive imagination fueled by guilt. Excuse me for a moment.
[00:25:09] Unknown:
Doctor Hopper? Oh, Jimmy. What is it? Can I speak to your mom, sir? Yes. This is missus Raymond. This is Jimmy Wood, one of our interns.
[00:25:18] Unknown:
You're Janie's mother? Yes. Why, has something happened to her? Well What? What is it?
[00:25:27] Unknown:
She's in the dining room.
[00:25:31] Unknown:
There she is. Janie? Janie, can you hear me? Yes. Janie, what happened? I heard him. What do you mean? Heard who?
[00:25:47] Unknown:
Andy. I heard his voice.
[00:25:51] Unknown:
He spoke to me. Well, she was going through the cafeteria line when suddenly she dropped her tree and went into a trance. He spoke to me.
[00:26:01] Unknown:
What did he say?
[00:26:04] Unknown:
Can you forget me?
[00:26:06] Unknown:
Hallucinations.
[00:26:07] Unknown:
No. Well, several other people also claimed they heard the voice. Who? Well, some of the patients.
[00:26:15] Unknown:
The patients in this ward are all mentally disturbed and highly suggestible. I think they can discount what they say. Don't you, Jimmy?
[00:26:23] Unknown:
This time I was wide awake. I know I wasn't dreaming, and I heard his boy. Oh, Janie. Janie, listen to me. We're gonna do everything that's necessary to help you.
[00:26:37] Unknown:
I don't think you can help me, ma'am. I don't think anyone can ever help me again.
[00:26:53] Unknown:
Set me like a seal upon thy heart. Love is as strong as death, says the poet. At this moment, Andy seems more like a vice than a seal on Janie's heart, and he sits there with what it seems could hardly be called love. In life, he was an ingenuous enough fellow. Could he be so changed in death? Well, death is often compared to sleep, and we all know our dreams are notoriously amoral. So perhaps the dead are likewise bereft of scruple. And if that is so, Janie Raymond might not be in for a very pleasant time. I shall return in a moment with our final act. Andy's spirit seems determined to exact satisfaction from the torment of Janie, but just what kind of satisfaction is he seeking?
He's been rather vague about what it is he would like, which is hardly encouraging, For we all know if a spirit walks abroad, it is because it is unsettled, and it will not return to the grave until it has found peace.
[00:28:17] Unknown:
Mother? Oh, yes, dear. I'm right here. Where am I? At home. Where? Janie, what's the matter? You're you're in your own room. I I don't know. For a minute, it looked strange. Strange? Like a place I've never been before. It must have been the effects of the sedative that doctor Harper gave you at the hospital. Doctor Harper wanted to keep you at the hospital. Why didn't you let him? I told him the best place for you was right in your own bed. Oh, I'm I'm scared. There's nothing to worry about now. You're with me, dear. You're safe. No, baby.
[00:29:00] Unknown:
Did do you think I'm going crazy? Hush. Martha,
[00:29:05] Unknown:
what if it's true? It's not true. It's simply not possible. You're my daughter, my precious one and only.
[00:29:15] Unknown:
I see his face. I I hear his voice. He he pursues me. I'm I'm so tired. I can barely stand up and scared to close my eyes because I know he'll be there. Well, you can rest now, sweetheart.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
Now doctor Harper says he'll have the results of all these tests tomorrow. Those tests won't show anything. It can't show what's happening. Nothing can no one.
[00:29:44] Unknown:
No, but I'm alone. I'm completely alone. None of you can do anything.
[00:29:50] Unknown:
Janie. Darling, you're distressed. I want you to lie back. Oh, mother. Mother, your voice feels so good. Please forgive me. I didn't mean what I said. Oh, it's alright, dear. Say anything you want. It doesn't matter. Oh, you are a good person. I'm sorry about all those terrible things I said before about about you being wicked and evil. Oh, you're a saint to put up with me. Shh. Now you know you're a very lucky girl. Why? Well, look how Andy's spirit is behaving, showing his true colors if you ask me. He's being petty and vindictive. He's nothing but but a jealous ghost. I don't know. It's just not like it.
I almost feel like I'm beginning to hate it. Oh, I don't think that's necessary, but it does seem obvious that he doesn't love you very much. Think if you'd accepted his proposal. Think if you'd actually been married. That would have been a fine time to discover the truth. Mother? Yes, dear. Maybe maybe I should move out. What? Well, if if Andy is going to make my life miserable, I don't want you subjected to it. Why, I'm sure that's exactly what he'd like. We shouldn't give him the satisfaction. We must stand together and conquer him. But what can we do? Well, I I know you've never had the faith that I do, but perhaps if you'd make the effort. What do you mean?
Darling, I want you to come with me tomorrow morning to Madame Taj's. You mean that old woman witch you go to? She's not a witch, Janie. She's a medium, a clairvoyant. She's a person of extraordinary powers. I'm supposed to see doctor Harper tomorrow. Oh, that's not till the afternoon. Besides, I think you're quite right. What we're dealing with here is far beyond the limited gain of medical science. Madam is highly skilled at contacting the spirits of the departed. You mean she could talk directly to Andy? Yes. And you think she could make Andy stop tormenting me? Quite possibly.
You see, Janie, I can help you. Who knows? If you came to respect madame as I do, it might might bring us closer together than ever. Well, come on in. Don't be afraid. Mother? This looks just like a normal person's house. Of course. Mediums aren't any different from you or me. They're simply endowed with unique powers which they have disciplined. There's no reason not to act perfectly normal. But shouldn't you have knocked before we came in? No need. Madame knows who it is. Hello, missus Raymond? And this is your daughter, Jamie, is it not?
How do you do? I believe the question is how do you do? Your mother has explained to me the reason why you are here. Yes. I do. Will you come this way, please? Oh, yes. I am sorry, missus Raymond, but you know how I work. I must be with your daughter alone. You're skeptical, aren't you? Well, I It's alright. Just don't waste energy feeling apologetic. Your concentration will be needed elsewhere. Please be seated. What are you going to do? Your mother explained as much of the problem as I needed to know. You are troubled by the spirit of a departed friend?
He was my boyfriend. Oh, well, I can definitely sense another presence in the room. You can? It arrived within moments after we entered. Well, this is most strange. What? Your mother had led me to believe that this was an evil spirit, but the pulse I feel from it is quite calm. I see nothing but white light. What does that mean? That he intends no harm. Then flash, he he is weeping. Crying? Yes. But not in the moss. The sensations I am receiving are those of sadness. Tell me, Janey, in what ways has this spirit made itself known to you? It took away a ring, and it said I could keep forever. Oh. Oh.
[00:34:55] Unknown:
What is it? There above your head. It's this face just like yesterday at the hospital. Yes. I see. Do you? Then I'm I'm not crazy. I'm Janie,
[00:35:13] Unknown:
it's it's gone now. He spoke to you, didn't he? Yes. And what did he say? Same thing he said yesterday. Can you forget me? You see, he taunts me. Do you say that in life this boy loved you? Oh, I thought he did. But I guess mother was right about men. Oh, all the symptoms are those of the spirit seeking revenge, yet there is no trace of hatred, only sorrow. What other explanation could there be for his actions? I don't know. You must think, girl. Nothing is done without cause. Whatever he is doing, he is definitely doing with affection.
And since that is the emotion the two of you shared in life, if you look deeply enough into yourself, you will find the meaning. Well, what? You haven't said a word since we left madame's. Oh, I thought maybe I wasn't supposed to talk about it. You can talk to me. Obviously, something happened that was food for thought. Madame Tash didn't have any answers if that's what you're asking. But what happened? Was she able to contact Andy's spirit? Yes. And? Mother, I don't know.
[00:37:02] Unknown:
There was nothing conclusive. Oh, here's the buzz. But Jamie Can we just not talk about it?
[00:37:17] Unknown:
Good afternoon, Jamie, missus Raymond. Good afternoon, doctor Harper. Will it please be seated? Oh, thank you. Well, as I suspected, Jamie, there's nothing seriously wrong. Physically, you're in perfect health. And and mentally? And, essentially, she's quite sound. I am? You were traumatized by Andy's death. That's all. The trance you went into yesterday when he told you not to forget him. Oh, those weren't his exact words. No. The exact words don't matter. The point is it was clearly self induced just as the lacerations with the ring were self induced. Andy isn't hounding you, Janie.
You're hounding yourself. If you can stop blaming yourself for his death, I predict you'd be fully recovered within a day or two. But how can I control my feelings? Well, maybe this will help. But what is it? A report of the officer who was at the scene of the accident. Apparently, there was another car involved. Another car? Operated by a man who had been drinking heavily. He veered into Andy's lane. A witness said Andy never had a chance. No one would have.
[00:38:34] Unknown:
But I wasn't responsible?
[00:38:37] Unknown:
No. Andy has no hold over you whatsoever. None.
[00:38:45] Unknown:
No. No. Jamie, what is it? Didn't you hear what the doctor said? I swear I don't understand you at all. Janie, where are you going? He he's the bus stop. I think I'll walk home. Oh, well, it's a nice day. Of course. Why not? I mean, I want to walk home alone.
[00:39:13] Unknown:
Oh,
[00:39:14] Unknown:
doctor Harper was wrong about one thing, mother. And he has been with me every moment since he died. I know that. Doctor Harper is well intentioned, but he's a man of limited vision. But it's only now I realize why. What what do you mean? He appeared to me again at at madame Taj's. And he spoke the same words as before. Can you forget me? Doctor Harper was wrong about that too. The exact words do matter. And he wasn't trying to punish me. He he was asking me to forget him. Oh, well, the boy had more sense than I thought. That's why he took his ring away.
He was telling me not to cling to him, but to to go out and live my life. But you are living your life. No, mother. Not yet. Not my own life. But I'm going to start. You mean you want to start seeing more young men? I'm going to move out, mother. Move out? Yes. You hate me, don't you? No, mother. I don't hate you. I'm just going to your house to pack my things.
[00:40:41] Unknown:
How hard it can be to know our own minds when those who have our best interests at heart smother us with their affection. For where is the blame in love? Yet love, as Plato said, is need. And in our need, we are often less than perfect. But then to complete the circuit of our reasoning on an irrational subject, is it not our very imperfections which often make us lovable? I shall return in a moment with a final word. Was it really Andy's spirit which prodded Janie Raymond out of the womb, or were the signs which beset her the externalization of her own deepest instincts?
In a way, it hardly matters. The important thing was it was necessary or either we grow or we die. Our cast included Anne Williams, Jack Grimes, Greiner Raven, and Robert Dryden. The entire production was under the direction of Hyman Brown. This is EG Marshall inviting you to return to our mystery theater for another adventure in the macabre. Until next time, pleasant
Introduction to the Mystery Theater
The Girl He Left Behind: A Tale of First Love
Andy's Proposal and Janie's Dilemma
Tragic News: Andy's Death
The Haunting Begins: Janie's Torment
Seeking Answers: The Medium's Insight
Resolution: Understanding Andy's Message
