Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Fairweather Friend Matter 04/12/1959

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar: The Fairweather Friend Matter

Podcast: Choice Classic Radio Detectives | Old Time Radio
Episode Aired: 04/12/1959 (Rebroadcast: Sep 29, 2025)
Main Cast: Bob Bailey as Johnny Dollar

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Episode Overview

This episode features "The Fairweather Friend Matter," a classic installment of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar, known for its blend of sharp detective storytelling and homespun humor. Johnny Dollar, the ever-resourceful freelance insurance investigator, heads to rural Oklahoma after a call from Sidewinder Wilson draws him into the aftermath of a bank messenger's murder and the return of stolen securities. The tangled case involves old friends, small-town intrigue, and a dangerous confrontation with the suspected killer.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Highlights

1. The Call to Action (00:50–03:30)

• Sidewinder Wilson contacts Johnny Dollar, asking him to come to "Bumswang, Oklahoma" for something important.
• The lure: "I think I could show you something that'd make your eyes pop out all over your head." – Sidewinder Wilson (01:15)
• George Reed at Floyd’s of England Insurance lays out the basics—Durango Dalhart just paid a hefty insurance premium for his niece, Carol, and hints at a previous robbery-murder connected to the tiny town of Fairweather.

2. Johnny’s Arrival & Reunions (03:43–07:39)

• Johnny journeys to Oklahoma, noting the absurdly barren land—contrasted by the well-kept, modern home, courtesy of Carol Dalhart.
• Sidewinder’s colorful welcome includes pointed reminders of his frontier skills: "You had me ol' 38 lemon squeezer's yours? No sir, sonny, you wouldn't stand a chance." – Sidewinder Wilson (07:33)
• Durango is notably absent, off in Washington tending to taxes.

3. The Case Details Emerge (08:31–09:00)

• The murder in Fairweather: a bank messenger was killed and the securities stolen and—mysteriously—later returned.
• Twist: Sidewinder confesses, "I know who sent them back...Me, Johnny. Yes sir, me." (08:53–09:00)

4. Rattlesnakes and Revelations (10:32–13:13)

• While discussing the murder, Sidewinder and Johnny face down an actual Sidewinder rattlesnake—adding genuine frontier peril to the mix.
• The presumed motive becomes clear: "The man that killed him was his...what you call his ben-ew-fisher." – Sidewinder (12:09)
• Suspicion falls on Barney Gifford—Claude Needles’ nephew and insurance beneficiary.

5. Carol & Johnny’s Subplot (13:18–14:54)

• Carol’s arrival instantly adds warmth and a blush of romance: "Oh, then don't you stand there. Give me a kiss." – Carol Dalhart (13:23)
• Sidewinder can't help but nudge the matchmaking: "If Durango finds that you've been out here and went back to Hartford without hitching up with Carol..." (12:55)
• The flirtatious rapport continues: "Carol, you're the only girl I know who makes me wish sometimes I was the marrying kind." – Johnny Dollar (14:49)

6. The Investigation: Taking Down the Killer (15:26–18:53)

• We learn more about the amateur detective work: Carol distracts Barney so Sidewinder can search his house—successfully finding the stolen securities under a floorboard (15:44–15:59).
• Sidewinder detains Barney in his own tool shed (16:00–16:07), but Barney escapes, gravely injuring Pete, the watchman, and is now coming for revenge.

7. Showdown at the Ranch (20:13–23:42)

• As night falls, the tension spikes: the group awaits Barney’s arrival.
• Barney appears, rifle in hand, holding them at gunpoint. "Not so brave now that I got the advantage, are you, Sidewinder?" – Barney Gifford (22:04)
• Johnny uses a clever diversion—brings up Sidewinder’s rattlesnake exploits; a real rattler’s presence distracts Barney, allowing Sidewinder to act:
  • "You think maybe this is retribution for that killing you did today?" – Johnny Dollar (22:44)
  • The roaring presence of the rattler lets Sidewinder disarm Barney.

8. Aftermath & Closing (24:10–24:40)

• With the culprit caught, Sidewinder receives a phone call from Durango, who’s delighted Johnny stayed.
• Sidewinder: "Just as soon as he can pick up the preacher." (24:13)
• Johnny gives his expenses report and a wry sign-off, happier for time spent with Carol but as unattached as ever:
  • "Well, much as I love that gal..." – Johnny Dollar (24:15)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On rural Oklahoma:
  “The same two or three acres of poor, barren, sandy soil. The ramshackle house and the remains of a barn... I still couldn’t figure why Durango, who was worth millions in oil royalties, settled down in this lonely, desolate spot.” – Johnny Dollar (06:12)
• On being an insurance investigator:
  "George, you sound as though you don't trust me." – Johnny Dollar (05:38)
• On homespun justice:
  “I lassoed him and I tied him up and I took him and locked him up in the tool shed on my place.” – Sidewinder Wilson, re: Barney Gifford (16:00)
• Frontier peril:
  "Easy now, whilst I get a bead on him with this thirty, a bead right in one eye, now t’other. And I'll just cut off his rattles and add ‘em to my collection." – Sidewinder Wilson (11:05)
• Matchmaking humor:
  "If Durango finds you came back to Hartford without hitching up with Carol..." – Sidewinder Wilson (13:05)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Sidewinder’s Call & the Set Up: 00:50–03:30
• Johnny Discusses the Case with George: 03:58–05:38
• Arrival at Bumswang & Frontier Greetings: 07:14–08:17
• Sidewinder’s Confession (returned securities): 08:47–09:00
• Snake Attack & Revelations: 10:32–11:40
• Matchmaking and Carol Arrives: 13:13–14:54
• Details of Barney’s Guilt: 15:44–16:07
• Barney Escapes, Threatens Revenge: 18:44–19:02
• Showdown & Snake Distraction: 20:13–23:42
• Durango Calls; Expense Account Wrap: 24:10–24:40

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Tone & Style

The episode maintains a blend of suspenseful crime-solving with rustic, comedic, and romantic elements—typical of Johnny Dollar’s adventures. Dialogue features colloquial banter, regional flavor, and the warm camaraderie between recurring characters.

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Conclusion

The Fairweather Friend Matter stands out as a quintessential "Johnny Dollar" episode—blending a clever mystery, vivid rural character sketches, touches of romance, and the ever-resourceful Johnny at the center of it all. Old-time radio fans will delight in the period atmosphere, sharp writing, and engaging performances.

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Transcript

[Podbean Announcer]

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[Johnny Dollar]

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[Johnny Dollar]

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[Johnny Dollar]

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[Johnny Dollar]

My school uses Podbean. My church too.

[Podbean Announcer]

I love it. I really do.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Welcome to Choice Classic Radio where we bring to you the greatest old time radio shows.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Like us on Facebook.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Subscribe to us on YouTube and thank you for [e-mail] it's time now, Horse. Johnny$ hi there, Johnny. This here is Sidewinder Wilson.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, well, what can I. Who did you say?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Sidewinder Wilson. You know, out here in Bumswang, Oklahoma.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, wait a minute. You mean that old friend of Durango, Laramie Delhart?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I sure do. Unless you've forgotten it. I'm the man that helped you find Durango that time he disappeared.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sure, of course you did, Sidewinder. If it hadn't been for you, he'd never have found the old coat.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, what's on your mind?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, if you should just happen to mosey out here to bum sprung or. Well, Johnny, I think I could show you something that make your eyes pop out all over your head.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder, is this. Is this an insurance matter?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

N. You don't think I'd be calling on you if it wasn't, do you?

[Johnny Dollar]

What's it all about?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I'll tell you when you get here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well now, Sidewinder, I'll be waiting for.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You at Durango's ranch soon, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well now, wait a minute. Sidewinder.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Bailey in the intriguing adventures of the man with the action packed expense Account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yours truly, Johnny Duller.

[Narrator/Announcer]

With your permission, we'd like to talk shop for just a moment. CBS Radio Shop. Recently, one of the foremost publications in the broadcasting field pulled 465 critics and editors. The question which radio network programs do you rate tops? When the answers from these 465 experts were tabulated, the final ratings were, to put it mildly, overwhelmingly one sided. Total honors accorded CBS Radio programs exceeded those of all the other networks combined. Let's put it another way. The final verdict of hundreds of critics, reviewers and editors was that CBS Radio had more top shows than all other networks put together. CBS Radio was pleased naturally at the result of the poll, but not surprised. Great programming is no accident. It's long been a policy of this network to Devote every effort to maintaining highest broadcast standards, to making sure CBS radio listeners hear the best entertainment, the most authoritative information. Whatever listening fair is for you, you can be sure you're hearing the best when you're tuned to CBS radio. And now, act one of yours truly, Johnny Dol.

[Johnny Dollar]

Expense account submitted by Special investigator Johnny Dollar to Floyd's of England North American office, Hartford, Connecticut. Following is an account of expenses incurred during my investigation of the Fair Weather Friend matter. All of Durango's insurance was handled by Floyd. So that would have to be the company that Sidewinder was talking about. Expense account item $1.20 for a taxi to Floyd's headquarters in Hartford in the office of George Reed.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, this is a switch, Johnny. You're coming here.

[Johnny Dollar]

George, I just got a call from that town out in Oklahoma with the unlikely name of Bum Spunk.

[Narrator/Announcer]

The old Indian name, I understand it means bad spring, bad water.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, it was from a friend of Durango, Laramie Dalharts, an old character by the name of Sidewinder Wilson.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know, of course, that Durango was here a few days ago.

[Johnny Dollar]

Here in Hartford. And he didn't drop in to see me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He dropped in to pay the $4,500 premium on that insurance he carries for the benefit of his niece, Carol Dalhart. He must think an awful lot of that girl.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, well, who wouldn't? What, George, that Carol's a living doll. If I were ever to think seriously. Getting married. Well, believe me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Oh, what's the hitch? Does old Durango object?

[Johnny Dollar]

Object? Far from it. Hey, tell me, did he pay off that premium? And the usual brand new hundred dollar bill?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, and as usual, he peeled them off a roll that was big enough to choke a horse. Johnny, why, that man carries so much cash around with him. Now, what did this fellow Wilson call you about?

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder wouldn't tell me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, now, wait. There was a robbery murder case out there a while back in the little town of Fairweather. Ah, that's a few miles north of Enid, Oklahoma.

[Johnny Dollar]

What happened?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It was the messenger carrying some negotiable securities to the small bank there in Fairweather.

[Johnny Dollar]

Ah, you get stuck for insurance on both the man and the securities.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Only on the messenger. The securities were returned by whom? Neither the bank nor the police out there ever found out.

[Johnny Dollar]

Funny. Do you suppose that's what Sidewinder called me about?

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's only one way to find out, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Which is to say that Ploys of England will pay my expenses.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, now, within reason, of course. Why, kid about it, Johnny, that freewheeling expense account of yours.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, George, you sound as though you don't trust me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, of course I do.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, you shouldn't, huh, George. I'll be in touch. Expense account, item 29730. Transportation. The plane dropped me off at Enid, Oklahoma shortly after 6pm Item 3, $2 even for some food. Item 4, a 50 buck deposit on a drive your own car. I drove north on Highway 81. Then after some 27 miles and after crossing the Salt Fork of the Arkansas, which much to my surprise had a trickle of water in, I turned left on the rough dirt road leading to Bump Spot. Finally there it was. The same two or three acres of poor, barren, sandy soil. The ramshackle house and the remains of a barn leaning tightly on the timbers that helped to prop it up. And out in front were the same two sad looking cows. The old and weather beaten horse, a friendly, mangy, toothless hound who shook himself as he got up out of the dust and proceeded to assert his authority. And I still couldn't figure why Durang, who was worth millions in oil royalties, had ever chosen to settle down in this lonely, desolate spot. And yet, thanks to Carol, his attractive niece, the inside of that huge unpainted house was clean, modern, well furnished. I wondered if Carol would show up, but I saw no sign of the sleek convertible she always drove. Swinging open the sagging wire gate, I wondered if the Agent Maxwell parked at one side belonged to Sidewinder Wilson. I didn't have to wonder for long.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Hey.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hey, you crazy old coot.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yippee, Sidewinder.

[Johnny Dollar]

What the Sam. Hell's the matter with you?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, welcome to Bum Spongani.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, listen, you wild old character, put that thing down or I'll start throwing some lead around myself.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You had me ol 38 lemon squeezers. Yours? Why you. No sir, sonny, you wouldn't stand a chance.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, what's the big idea?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I just want to show you that when Durango leaves me in charge of his ranch, he leaves it in good hands. And also I wanted you to feel real welcome around here. Now. How are you, Johnny boy?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, still in one piece, no thanks to you. The crazy way you and Durango have of making somebody feel welcome around here. Where is he, by the way?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

First he went to Hartford to pay up on his insurance. Then he flew down to Washington.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, what flew?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, to pay up on his income taxes. Want to make sure he got them in the right hand.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, he didn't have to go to Washington for that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, he figures he makes it easier that way. He just carries along a big bundle of money and lets them take whatever they think is right.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, no. Now listen, Sidewinder. Did you call me in connection with that bank messenger who was killed down in Fairweather?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right, John.

[Johnny Dollar]

I understand the securities he carried were returned to the bank.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, sir. They were sealed up in a big envelope and laid on the front doorstep of that bank. And what I figure, Johnny, you figure.

[Johnny Dollar]

That if I can find out who sent him back the securities, I'll have a lead on the killer.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right. And, Johnny, I know who sent him back.

[Johnny Dollar]

You do?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

You sure?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, who? Sidewinder?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Me, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

What?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, sir. Me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Act two of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment. Are you going to write that letter today or put it off until tomorrow? Or maybe the day after? How about that spring suit you plan to have altered? Will you take it to the tailor tomorrow morning, bright and early? Or will the week somehow glide by while the suit just hangs on in your closet? If you're a confessed procrastinator, you're not unique. The putting off habit can be mild or chronic. But some matters, serious matters, are highly dangerous to assign to manana. One of the most important of these is getting protection from crippling killing. Polio. When life saving Salk Vaccine was first introduced in 1955, it was hailed as a major medical discovery. Yet at the beginning of this current year, some 98 million Americans, the majority of our population, had not received even one inoculation. Why had all these people failed to take the simple measures necessary to gain protection from polio if you were among them this year? Don't take a chance. Don't put off those polio shots any longer. Get in touch with your family doctor or local health department right away. And now act two of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the Fairweather friend matter.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Come on in the house, Johnny, and I'll tell you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Just let me get this straight. Sidewinder, the bank messenger down there in Fairweather, was held up and murdered?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

The securities he carried were stolen by the killer, then they were returned to the bank.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right. And I'm the one who returned them.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder, You. Now look, don't tell me that you're the one.

[Carol Dalhart]

Me?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You think that I'm the one that killed that messenger?

[Johnny Dollar]

I didn't say that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, that's what you were thinking, ain't it?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, you said yourself that whoever returned.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Those security, whoever left him back at the bank, now just you stand real still, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, come on now. Put that thing down, Sidewinder. Look, would you listen to me?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And maybe you even better stop talking or that Sidewinder rattlesnake coming toward you might take it into his head. Easy now.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh yeah, I can hear him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Easy now. Whilst I get a bead on him with this study a beep right in one eye, now t'. Other. And I'll just cut off his rattles and add em to my collection.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, brother. Thanks. No wonder they called you Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah. That's the 427th rattles I've taken off these varmints. I just don't like em, Johnny. They ain't like Diamondback. These Sidewinders around here'll sneak up on a man just like that dirty snake that killed the bank messenger. And you know why he done it, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

You still haven't told me who he is.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

It was to collect that insurance on him, that's who.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

The man that killed him was his hair, what you call his Benue Fisher.

[Johnny Dollar]

How do you know, Sidewinder?

[Carol Dalhart]

Because I live down to Fairweather.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That is when I ain't up here looking after Durango's place. Yeah, and that's how come I knowed that clawed Needles that was a messenger. Left his insurance to that no count nephew of his and that Barney Gifford. Sit down.

[Johnny Dollar]

Barney Gifford, huh?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah. So what I done was talk it over with Durango and Carol Delhart.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where is Carol? Sidewinder?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I've been waiting for you. Dash that, Johnny. Oh, she'll be around.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Kind of sweet on her, ain't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

Wow.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Now don't you try to fool me, Johnny boy. And you know how she feels about you too. And if you don't think Durango knows, well, I'll tell you this.

[Johnny Dollar]

You say you talked it over with him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'll tell you this, Johnny Durango finds that you've been out here and went back to Hartford without hitching up with Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder. Would you?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, I'll tell you this.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

He's liable to shotgun you into it if he catches you around here. And don't you try to tell me you wouldn't like being married to her too.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Okay, okay. So anyhow, me and Durango and. Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

Carol.

[Carol Dalhart]

Hi, Johnny. Oh, yeah. I'm glad to see you, Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

I. I'm glad to see you.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, then don't you stand there. Give me a kiss.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, you think I need an engraved invitation?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Come here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, hi.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, don't stop Johnny, it's been a long time.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

If Durango could see this.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, drop that saddle there.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yes, sir.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

He'd had that shotgun out so.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, it's been an awful long time, Jo.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, too long.

[Carol Dalhart]

I thought you were never coming back here. I'm here, so let's make up for lost time.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, why not?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Oh, come on now. Come on, you kid.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, it's good to see you, Johnny.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Don't you want to hear the rest of what I was?

[Carol Dalhart]

Now, now, now, looky here.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

If you don't cut loose from each other there, you know what I'll do? I'll walk right out of here and I'll go back fair with her. And I'll send a telegram to old Durango. And I'll tell him you two are making out like this all alone inside his house. And if that don't bring him out here to get you two married.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, why don't you mind your own business?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I, I, I, I tell you.

[Carol Dalhart]

Old goat, why don't you go somewhere and get lost?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm going right down to Fairweather and sending him a telephone.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no, no, no. Just settle down there, Sidewinder.

[Carol Dalhart]

I'll settle down, Johnny, with you anytime, any place.

[Johnny Dollar]

Carol, you're the only girl I know who makes me wish sometimes I was the marrying kind. But now, listen.

[Carol Dalhart]

I'll bet I can make you the marrying kind, Johnny. You like to give me a chance, huh?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's heralded. I'm leaving right now.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, you aren't, Sidewinder.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, let him go.

[Johnny Dollar]

Let's just be sensible for a minute, will you?

[Carol Dalhart]

I was trying to, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

I mean about this murder case.

[Carol Dalhart]

And when we finish talking about it, we'll see. Well, then let me tell you about it. It won't take me so long. And Sidewinder, you stop making those silly eyes. Or I'll let you have right between them.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I still think I ought to leave.

[Carol Dalhart]

So do I. But as long as you're already. Well. Well, listen, Johnny.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm listening.

[Carol Dalhart]

When Mr. Needles was killed, Sidewinder wanted them to make him a cop down there in Fairweather.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Or even just a deputy so as I could go out and hunt for that killer. Claude Needles was a friend of mine.

[Carol Dalhart]

But the police said no. They didn't need him, didn't want him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

So that made me sore.

[Carol Dalhart]

So we talked it over about who could ever do a thing like that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And that's when I remembered Barney Gifford.

[Carol Dalhart]

Would get the money. I told Sidewinder I'd have a date with Barney. And that would give him a chance to go through Bonnie's house and look for the security.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And I found him, Johnny. Under a loose board in the floor.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yes.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

So when he come home, I lassoed him and I tied him up and I took him and locked him up in the tool shed on my place.

[Johnny Dollar]

You didn't turn him over to the police?

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, the chief in that little old hick town told Sidewinder that if he interfered in the case, he'd lock him up.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's what he said.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, look, nevertheless, my twin Durango, just.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Before he left to go to Hartford, always has to be there right on time, you know, with that insurance payment.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, I know.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, that's when Durango said to call you up on the phone. Yeah.

[Carol Dalhart]

Sidewinder, huh? I thought that was your idea.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

No, Durango's. And also for getting Johnny out here to see you again. Why, sure.

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, who does Durango think he is, trying to run my life that way? What kind of a trick is that to pull on? Just you wait until he gets back here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Is that my cue to leave these parts, Carol?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, it's certainly.

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[Johnny Dollar]

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[Johnny Dollar]

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[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, no, of course not, Johnny. But where?

[Johnny Dollar]

All right now, Sidewinder, where is this Barney Gifford?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Locked up in my tool shed.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, who's looking after him?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Oh, Pete Willie. I told him not to let on to the police.

[Johnny Dollar]

You sure he can handle a man like Gifford?

[Carol Dalhart]

Yes, Sidewinders.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I don't see why.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hey, look, maybe we'd better drive on down there.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, sure, sure, but we'll answer that form. Probably Durango saying to hold on to you, Johnny. He's probably on his way.

[Johnny Dollar]

If that's Durango you tell him I've left. Hello.

[Carol Dalhart]

Now you don't mean that, Johnny. I bet Durango really would make you marry me with ID so bad. Johnny.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Johnny care.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, why don't you stay on that Sidewinder? What's the matter?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Listen. That was old Pete.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Barney Scott loose. Like to kill old Pete?

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, no.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And now Barney's coming here. Coming for me to kill me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment.

[Carol Dalhart]

Be sociable, look smarter. Keep up to date with petty. Drink light refresh fishing petty. Stay young and fair and debonair. Be sociable, have a pet.

[Narrator/Announcer]

When friends drop in let your hospitality show you're sociable in the modern manner. Pepsi, you know, is the favorite of.

[Johnny Dollar]

The smart and young at heart.

[Carol Dalhart]

Be sociable to date with Pepsi. Drink light, refreshing Stay young and fair and debonair. Be sociable, have a Pepsi.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Have you tried a Pepsi lately? And now act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Johnny Dollar]

Okay, then. If Barney Gifford's coming here, we'll be ready for him. We'll. Sidewinder. You aren't afraid of Moya?

[Carol Dalhart]

He's a bad one, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

But if Sidewinder was able to subdue.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Him before, well, I. I caught him off guard. Johnny, he didn't have no gun then, but he has now. He took whole piece.

[Carol Dalhart]

And Barney's a deadly shot. It's the only good thing you can say about him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And don't you see? It's dark outside now. If we stay around here inside the house, we'd be like a flock of sitting ducks.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, but I don't think we'll stay inside.

[Carol Dalhart]

You mean we'll just run away, froggy?

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no. How long ago did he get away from Pete's?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, Pete says it was more than an hour ago.

[Johnny Dollar]

Then we haven't any time to waste.

[Carol Dalhart]

What are you gonna do, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

I know what you're gonna do. Carol.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yeah?

[Johnny Dollar]

Get out of here. Go on back to Enid. Tell the police. By the time they can get up here, Sidewinder and I will either have things under control or. Well, then they can take over.

[Carol Dalhart]

Why don't you phone the police?

[Johnny Dollar]

Because I'm telling you to go on down there.

[Carol Dalhart]

You're just trying to get me away from here, aren't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right.

[Carol Dalhart]

No, Johnny. I can shoot just as good as you and Sidewinder. And there's plenty of guns in the back room.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, Carol, that doesn't make any difference.

[Carol Dalhart]

You think I'm gonna leave you here with a killer after old Sidewinder and if Barty finds you with him, he try to kill you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Carol, would you.

[Carol Dalhart]

I won't go, Johnny. I won't leave.

[Johnny Dollar]

Okay, okay. We're just wasting time. I haven't seen any car lights out on the road. But that doesn't mean that. That's right, mister. It doesn't mean a thing.

[Carol Dalhart]

Damn.

[Johnny Dollar]

The front door had been pushed open by the barrel of a high powered rifle that slowly fanned the three of us. I knew that if I made a move to draw my handgun, if Sidewinder took a step toward his 30. 30 on the table. And if Barney was the excellent shot that Carol said he was. All right, put your hands up and come walking out this door. Listen, Barney Gibbet, do like I see. Come on, Carol. Sidewinder. Come on.

[Carol Dalhart]

Come on.

[Johnny Dollar]

Don't try anything.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

All right, Barney.

[Johnny Dollar]

Not so brave now that I got the advantage, are you, Sidewinder?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

All right. If you gotta kill somebody, kill me.

[Johnny Dollar]

You leave them alone now that they know all about me. No, sir. I'm gonna kill all of you like I killed old Pete. Now stop.

[Carol Dalhart]

You keep your dirty hands off of me.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You keep them up, Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

So you're not carrying a gun. I know that Sidewinder never carries it, but you do, don't you, mister? Thanks. And I think I'll use it to kill you. So if you want to put your hands down to pray. Well. Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

You think maybe this is retribution for that killing you did today?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Killing Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah. When I first got here, you remember.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Oh, I don't know what you're talking.

[Johnny Dollar]

About, mister, but I'm not gonna waste any time.

[Carol Dalhart]

Marnie, shut up.

[Johnny Dollar]

Cal, you're gonna go first. All right? Now listen, gifford. And you, Mr. And last of all, died once. What's that?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

It's your snake.

[Carol Dalhart]

It's a rattler.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

It's back up.

[Carol Dalhart]

You sighed one.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no, it's over next to Barney. Where? Where? I can't see it.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Where is it? I'll kill it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where is it?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Right here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, but that. That snake.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, thanks, Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm sure. I'm sure glad I saved these rattles, Johnny.

[Carol Dalhart]

What?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, so am I.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

But I never would have remembered them if you hadn't reminded me about killing that snake.

[Johnny Dollar]

You know something? I hated to leave that place. To leave Carol is what I really mean. But there was another phone call. Sidewinder answered it and yep, it was from Durango. Phoning from Enid. Durango was so tickled to learn I was still around, that he Promised to come out to the ranch as fast as he could.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah, sure. Just as soon as he can pick up the preacher.

[Carol Dalhart]

Sidewinder.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, much as I love that gal. Well, expense account total, including the trip back to Hartford and mileage on the rental car. 20350. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Our star will return in just a moment.

[Johnny Dollar]

Be careful, you're gonna land in a bathtub. Who's driving this flying saucer, you or me? Well, what do you see? Oh, germs. Millions and millions of germs. Sure, here on Earth, disease germs and viruses live in bathrooms. Wait, here comes a lady. She's putting a dash of Lysol in with those suds and she's mopping the floor. Wow, look at those germs and viruses. Drop dead. Boy, are you stupid. I thought all Martians knew that Lysol brand disinfectant kills disease, germs and many deadly viruses on contact. Disinfects from one cleaning to the next as nothing else can. That's right. I remember my seven grandmothers saying Lysol makes your favorite cleaner work better. Including many that claim to sanitize. I'm sorry, you learned to speak English by listening to commercials. And Lysol comes in regular or pine fragrance for as little as 29 cents. How much is that Martian money?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now here is our star to tell you about next week's story.

[Johnny Dollar]

Next week? Well, getting away from Durango, Laramie delhart isn't as easy as you might think. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, originates in Hollywood and is written, produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in our cast were Virginia Gregg, Junius Matthews, G. Stanley Jones, James McCallion and Bill James. Be sure to join us next week, same time and station for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. This is Dan Cubberly speaking. Suspense is next. Over the CBS Radio Network.

[Johnny Dollar]

W auto.

[Narrator/Announcer]

W Albany, New York. 10. 10. 10. Yes. 10 hours of price shattering bargains at Henry s. Mantel Furniture, 343 River St. Troy. This merchandise must be sold at once at savings to you of up to 87%. Mantel's was unable to extend their Latham store lease, so the stock from the Latham store has been moved to Mantel's main store in Troy. Save on famous brand merchandise, Haywood, Wakefield, Crayler, Simmons, Norge, Motorola and many more. Buy a $339.95 two piece living room suite for $199.95 or a $34.95. Famous make inner spring mattress for 1788 or a modern bedroom set regularly 259.95 now 139.95. This tremendous sale at Henry S. Mantel furniture begins Monday 6pm to 11pm and Tuesday 6pm to 11:00pm the store will be closed during the day to mark down merchandise and arrange stock. Remember, there's no money down at Henry s. Mantel Furniture, 343 River Street, Troy.