A Friend to Alexander: A Duel Beyond the Grave

Originally Aired: June 15, 1944

A Friend to Alexander: A Duel Beyond the Grave

In this haunting and psychologically rich episode of Suspense, based on the short story by James Thurber, Geraldine Fitzgerald and Richard Whorf star in a tale where history, dreams, and reality fatally collide.

Harry Andrews is a happy, easygoing man—until he starts having recurring dreams about Aaron Burr. Night after night, Harry sees Burr insult, provoke, and ultimately murder Alexander Hamilton in a dreamscape that feels chillingly real. The dreams begin to take over Harry’s waking life, infecting his work, his marriage, and his peace of mind.

Though his wife Bess tries desperately to save him—urging him to leave town, seek medical help, and even take a vacation—the ghost of Burr follows Harry wherever he goes. In the countryside, during target practice, Harry rehearses for a duel he believes he must fight. In the middle of the night, he marches off the paces, reenacting the fatal confrontation at Weehawken.

Finally, in the early morning hours, Harry faces his imaginary adversary. With a steady hand and a determined heart, he "duels" Aaron Burr—and collapses, dead, as though shot through the heart.

A chilling meditation on obsession, honor, and the deadly grip of unresolved grudges, A Friend to Alexander is a masterpiece of psychological suspense that leaves listeners questioning where dreams end and destiny begins.

Keywords: "Suspense A Friend to Alexander episode," "June 1944 Suspense radio drama," "James Thurber psychological story," "Aaron Burr duel dream," "Alexander Hamilton radio thriller," "Geraldine Fitzgerald Suspense," "Richard Whorf radio performance."

Cast: Geraldine Fitzgerald (Bess Andrews), Richard Whorf (Harry Andrews), produced and directed by William Spier, adapted from the story by James Thurber.