The Cave

And now, tonight's presentation of Radio's Outstanding Theater of Thrills, Sussthence. Tonight, in answer to many requests, we bring back a charming fantasy about a small boy who discovered a new world and lived forever after in its enchantment.

We call it the cave. Now starring Richard Beale with Billy Chapin, here is tonight's suspense play, the Cave. It's on days like this that I remember how it used to be before I found the cave.

This day in particular, of course it's hard to see everything as it really was. Time has a habit of distorting the memories. Memories, Christmas, Christmas Day, but a long time ago that was. I was ten, and an unpopular uncle had distinguished himself by giving me a flashlight.

It was enormous, war batteries, and a most incredible gleam to its metal case. I couldn't wait to try it out, and because it was still early afternoon I could think of only one place that was dark enough for the exciting test, the cave.

The big cave, whose mouth was near the sand dunes, and whose recess was rumored to be miles deep. George Fennel and I had never ventured more than 200 yards or so inside. But on that Christmas afternoon, I knew that the cool darkness of the cave would have no fears for George and me.

We met near the dunes as arranged to compare notes on our respective Christmas presents. It was quite warm, and the snow was beginning to melt in patches. A few gos were feeling about nearby. It was as I have remembered it all my life.

I didn't work like a searchlight tonight. I guess it would alright. Maybe they'll let us stay up tonight if it doesn't get too cold and we could make pirates. I could use my new gun.