CBS Radio Mystery Theater – The Pardon. 790606

Some people just seem to never get a break, and have nothing but bad luck. Jack is a middle aged man who has been forced to leave his coal mining job due to an injury on the job. On top of that his in laws live with him, and though his mother in law claims to have money stashed away, she doesn’t contribute to the household. Jack has the chance to buy his own business, if only mom will kick in with a little cash to back him.

After an argument, mom is found dead. Jack let’s his insensitive side take over, and he ransacks the old woman’s trunk, ignoring the concerns of his wife and father in law. The frustrated Jack doesn’t find any money, but is blamed for killing his mother in law. What do his wife, and her dad think of the events? As Jack is taken to jail he threatens revenge when he is released. Is it an empty threat, or a promise to worry about?

Jack’s wife has been feeling guilty that she didn’t do more for his defense, and fears what her husband might do is he gets out. Her fear is compounded when she learns Jack could be out early for good behavior. Is it just her conscience, or is there a real danger? Jack is released, but who is the one in danger? Has he changed? Is he still angry? There’s still one more death before the show is over, and it might surprise you to discover who it will be.