The Price of the Head - Escape | 08/07/1954 (Ep221)
Summary
This episode of Escape presents John Russell's story "The Price of the Head," set in the Solomon Islands. It follows Christopher Pellett, a drunken white expatriate, and his devoted native friend Karaki. After Pellett murders a barman, Karaki smuggles him away to Bougainville to escape justice. The tale concludes with a dark twist, revealing that Karaki’s true motive for the perilous journey was to harvest Pellett's head as a prized trophy.
Topics discussed
Introduction and story setup
Pellet's drunken behavior and conflict
Mummery's intervention and warning
The ultimatum: work or leave
Alcohol withdrawal and desperation
Threats and the promise to leave
Karaki's care during the hangover
Discovery of the drugged rum
Murder of Moy Jack and escape
The voyage to Bougainville
Survival at sea and arrival
The revelation of Karaki's motive
Credits and production details
Promotions for upcoming programs
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