Black Ghost, The 3xxxxx 002 The Black Ghost Has Promised to Hold Up the Diamond Stud Saloon

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Black Ghost, The 3xxxxx 002 The Black Ghost Has Promised to Hold Up the Diamond Stud Saloon"

Overview

In this thrilling episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Black Ghost, The 3xxxxx 002 The Black Ghost Has Promised to Hold Up the Diamond Stud Saloon," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio. The story unfolds in the bustling Diamond Stud Saloon, where anticipation and tension are palpable as the townsfolk prepare for the imminent threat of the notorious Black Ghost. This summary delves into the intricate dynamics between the characters, the unfolding plot, and the climactic showdown that captivates the audience from start to finish.

Characters

• Larry Brandon: A peace-loving yet curious individual eager to witness the Black Ghost's attempted holdup.
• Uncle Zach: Larry's wise and experienced uncle, skeptical yet realistic about the Black Ghost's intentions.
• Sheriff Joe Haines: The town's sheriff, portrayed as composed but visibly concerned about the impending danger.
• Betty Cameron: The sheriff's daughter, whose presence adds a personal stake to the unfolding events.
• Robbers (including Yandere's Idaho and Tiny Bennett): Henchmen of the Black Ghost, each with distinct personalities and roles in the planned holdup.
• Winthrop: An old crippled man connected to the sheriff, serving as a reluctant participant in the robbery.

Plot Summary

The episode kicks off with Larry Brandon expressing his skepticism about the Black Ghost's plans:

Larry Brandon [00:12]: "Listen, Uncle Zach, that Black Ghost ain't gonna show up."

Uncle Zach counters with caution, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the Black Ghost:

Uncle Zach [00:16]: "No, Larry, never can tell what'll happen. He's as full of tricks as an egg is of me."

As the characters discuss the sheriff's location and the setup of lookouts, the tension builds. Larry speculates on the Black Ghost's motives and doubts the feasibility of the planned heist:

Larry Brandon [00:49]: "What gets me is why he deliberately wrote a note to Ace Cameron telling him he'd hold the saloon up tonight. How does he hope to get away with a stunt like that? I don't believe he'll try."

Uncle Zach warns Larry about the Black Ghost's ruthlessness:

Uncle Zach [01:08]: "He'd try anything. He's a rank pistol. Never misses a shot. And he always shoots. Never runs no bluffs neither."

The sheriff arrives, and the conversation shifts to the readiness of the town's defenses. Sheriff Joe Haines remains calm but vigilant:

Sheriff Joe Haines [01:56]: "Howdy, Uncle Zach. Well, Brandon, I see you on deck."

Larry challenges the sheriff's confidence in thwarting the holdup, questioning the Black Ghost's timing:

Larry Brandon [02:08]: "I'll bet you my stacker won't show up. What's he waiting for anyhow? We're all here."

The discussion reveals the Black Ghost's preference for executing his plans under specific conditions:

Sheriff Joe Haines [02:02]: "He's waiting for the moon to rise over them pinnacles, that's what."

As the night progresses, Betty Cameron enters the scene, adding complexity to the interactions. Her attempt to stay involved despite her father's intentions highlights familial tensions:

Betty Cameron [05:01]: "How do you do, Mr. Brandon?"

The arrival of the robbers escalates the situation. Commands are issued, and the saloon becomes a battleground of wills. Uncle Zach and Larry position themselves strategically, anticipating the chaos:

Uncle Zach [10:13]: "Put him up, Larry. Ain't gotta show, you know. We're here in the light and he's outside that window in the dark."

The confrontation reaches its peak as the robbers attempt to seize control, leading to a tense standoff. Winthrop's reluctance to comply adds a layer of unpredictability:

Winthrop [10:19]: "I won't do it. Ain't you satisfied to rob me without making me rob other folks?"

Conflict ensues, and the characters' true natures emerge. Uncle Zach maintains his composure, urging cooperation to avoid violence:

Uncle Zach [10:35]: "Shoot, I ain't as scared of you, old man. Do as you told. We don't want to see you murdered. Now go on, get the money."

As the situation teeters on the edge, the sheriff takes decisive action to restore order, embodying the law's resilience against chaos:

Sheriff Joe Haines [09:08]: "Ginger supper agree with you, Mr. Winslow?"

The episode culminates in a dramatic escape plan orchestrated by the robbers, setting the stage for a high-stakes chase:

Robber [12:37]: "And here's something to remember me by. Come on, boys, let's get out that door. Come on."

Key Scenes and Notable Quotes

1. Anticipation of the Black Ghost's Arrival

   • Larry Brandon [00:49]: "It's about as nice a reception committee as a Black ghost could wish for."
   • Uncle Zach [01:08]: "He'll be here tonight just as sure shoot me."

2. Sheriff's Vigilance and Community Tension

   • Sheriff Joe Haines [02:17]: "Say, listen, son. You're a barking up the wrong tree about Cameron."
   • Uncle Zach [03:28]: "We gotta be careful."

3. Betty Cameron's Involvement

   • Betty Cameron [05:02]: "Well, I can't stay but a minute. I gotta get back in the office."
   • Uncle Zach [07:28]: "Miss Betty, won't you please run long in the office like sweet little gal?"

4. Confrontation with the Robbers

   • Winthrop [10:21]: "You dat gum rotten snake."
   • Uncle Zach [10:35]: "Shoot, I ain't as scared of you, old man."

5. Climactic Showdown

   • Larry Brandon [12:34]: "Steady, boy. Our turn will come."
   • Robber [12:37]: "Come on, boys, let's get out that door. Come on."

Conclusion

"Black Ghost, The 3xxxxx 002" masterfully encapsulates the essence of classic Western radio dramas. Through its vivid characters, tightly woven plot, and suspenseful dialogue, the episode keeps listeners on the edge of their seats. The interplay between Larry Brandon's idealism, Uncle Zach's wisdom, Sheriff Haines' authority, and Betty Cameron's determination creates a rich tapestry of human emotions and moral dilemmas. As the Black Ghost's plan unfolds, the episode explores themes of courage, loyalty, and the enduring struggle between lawmen and outlaws. This engaging installment not only entertains but also offers a nostalgic glimpse into the storytelling brilliance of the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[Larry Brandon]

Listen, Uncle Zach, that Black Ghost ain't gonna show up.

[Uncle Zach]

No, Larry, never can tell what'll happen. He's as full of tricks as an egg is of me.

[Larry Brandon]

Where's the sheriff's at?

[Uncle Zach]

Look right through here. Three tables down there between the two back windows.

[Larry Brandon]

Oh yeah, yeah, I see him. Now how about them two lookouts at Cameron?

[Uncle Zach]

Well, look to your left there. Yandere's Idaho in that corner with Sawdorff shotgun. And there's Tiny Bennett at the center table with his artillery leaning agin that pole.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, a lookout looks right interesting, Uncle Zach. It's about as nice a reception committee as a Black ghost could wish for. But what gets me is why he deliberately wrote a note to Ace Cameron telling him he'd hold the saloon up tonight. How does he hope to get away with a stunt like that? I don't believe he'll try.

[Uncle Zach]

Now listen, Larry, you don't know this fellow. He'd try anything. He's a rank pison. Never misses a shot. And he always shoots. Never runs no bluffs neither. Now get this into your head. He'll be here tonight just as sure shoot me.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, I hope so. I'm a peace loving fool myself. But as I've told you before, I'm so curious that I'd like to see this hombre hold up this particular keg of dynamite and get away with it. It just can't be done. Oh, look, here comes the sheriff and he looks worried. Scared maybe.

[Uncle Zach]

No, sir. Ain't no yeller in Joe Haines. He's expecting to see death tonight for somebody. Black Ghost never stages a hold up without a killing. Hello, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Howdy, Uncle Zach. Well, Brandon, I see you on deck.

[Larry Brandon]

Yes, the sheriff. I wasn't exactly asked to this party, but I'm here to find out how come I wasn't.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

You all ain't said nothing to the boys about a hold up heavy, Zach?

[Uncle Zach]

Of course not, Joe.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, I'll bet you my stacker won't show up. What's he waiting for anyhow? We're all here.

[Uncle Zach]

He's waiting for the moon to rise over them pinnacles, that's what.

[Larry Brandon]

Oh, I remember now. You say he never pulls a stick up unless it's bright moonlight. Well, that's a funny one.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Well, that's right. I never figured that out. But it's true.

[Larry Brandon]

Sheriff, sit down for a minute.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

All right. Just a minute though. Want to get back to my table? It's right at the back door in case somebody tries to leave that way.

[Larry Brandon]

Where is Ace Cameron? At tonight?

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Well, I saw him a minute ago at the bar. Why?

[Larry Brandon]

Oh, nothing, Sheriff. Only wished you'd do me a favor. If this Black Ghost does try to stick up this place tonight, will you remember to spot Ace Cameron during the hold up?

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Say, listen, son. You're a barking up the wrong tree about Cameron. He wouldn't take a chance on stopping a bullet just for the fun of robbing his own bar.

[Uncle Zach]

Tell you can't tell, Sheriff. No matter what we think, we don't know who the Black Ghost is. Might be sitting here within 10ft of us right now. We gotta be careful.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Yeah, that's a fact. He might be sitting here right now. Well, I'll try to watch for Ace when it happens.

[Larry Brandon]

You mean, if it happens.

[Uncle Zach]

No, sir. When it happens. Black Ghost be here.

[Larry Brandon]

Maybe so, but he sure will have his nerve.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

And he's got aplenty. I'll give him credit for that, Brandon. Well, I'll get back to my table. See you all later.

[Larry Brandon]

All right, Sheriff. Uncle Zach, Sheriff Haines is scared.

[Uncle Zach]

No, not scared, Larry. He's worried, but not enough to spoil his shooting arm. He's the kind that steadies up under danger. He's a thoroughbred, Larry. Well, of all things, I'll be dad hammered if Ace Cameron oughtn't to do something to keep that gal of his at home on a night like this.

[Larry Brandon]

Cameron's gal?

[Uncle Zach]

His daughter. Look, Yander by the office door.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, holy smoke. Listen, Uncle Zack, she can't stay here. I'm gonna tell her to get out of here.

[Uncle Zach]

She's crazy, I know, but tain't gonna do no good to tell her that. She laugh at you.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, here goes for a try.

[Uncle Zach]

Now, set still. She's walking this way.

[Larry Brandon]

This ain't no place for a girl like her. There's no telling what one them miners might say to her.

[Uncle Zach]

Oh, they all know her, Larry. She's jest as safe with them as she would be with you or me. But why, howdy, Miss Benny. My, but you do.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Look, Swee.

[Uncle Zach]

Say, meet an old friend of mine, Larry Brandon.

[Betty Cameron]

How do you do, Mr. Brandon?

[Larry Brandon]

Well, I'm certainly glad to meet you, Ms. Cameron. Won't you sit down for a minute?

[Betty Cameron]

Well, I can't stay but a minute. I gotta get back in the office. I'm helping dad with his books tonight.

[Uncle Zach]

Well, I reckon you better startin them there books soon, Betty. This will be a right lively place if that Black Ghost pays us a visit.

[Betty Cameron]

The Black Ghost?

[Uncle Zach]

Yes. Didn't your dad tell you he's Aiming to call on us tonight?

[Betty Cameron]

Not really. Oh, isn't this exciting?

[Uncle Zach]

Yes, and you just better steal them.

[Robber]

Cards off the top of their neck.

[Larry Brandon]

Put the matter over there.

[Winthrop]

All right, boys, all right.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

That'll be about all that.

[Robber]

Sheriff, this bum insulted me. Said I was cheap.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, a guy can't have a running luck like that, nut cheek.

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

You heard me. Just cool down or spend the night in the Calibou.

[Larry Brandon]

All right. Well, Sheriff Haines makes him step on the straight and narrow around here, don't he?

[Betty Cameron]

He's a fine man for Cameron City.

[Uncle Zach]

Yes, and he can whip any two of them. Now, Miss Betty, won't you please run long in the office like sweet little gal?

[Betty Cameron]

Why, Uncle Zack. So you really want to get rid of me? I've just been thinking how nice you were.

[Larry Brandon]

You can't win, Uncle Zack. Now, me, I like to have Miss Betty to be here.

[Uncle Zach]

Now look here, young feller, if you're insinuating.

[Larry Brandon]

Listen, Miss Betty, just sit here by the wall, right over here.

[Betty Cameron]

Oh, so you can sit in front of me and shut off all the view.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, it's safe over here. That is if them books can wait in the office. But I think bookkeeping's better just now.

[Betty Cameron]

Oh, my gracious. Here you both are scared to death because I might get hurt. Don't you suppose I want to see things too?

[Larry Brandon]

Listen, Miss Betty, it. Well, it just don't sort of set right to see you in here in a place like this, you know.

[Betty Cameron]

Thanks, Mr. Brandon. I guess things are different up here.

[Uncle Zach]

Begging your pardon, miss, but they ain't a bit different. The women should always be dependent on the men folks. Lot safer for one thing and then two. It makes the men folks imagine that they really mount to something. But serious. Now, Miss Betty, I'm just setting on pins and needles worrying about you. Now either you set in here behind us or get in that office. I'm a getting mad fast.

[Betty Cameron]

Why, Uncle Zack, you wouldn't thank a person, would you?

[Uncle Zach]

Well, I dunno. I never raised no gals, but.

[Betty Cameron]

All right, Uncle Zack, I'll be good. How's this?

[Uncle Zach]

That's a heap better. Larry, where's your horse?

[Larry Brandon]

Oh, Star. Oh, he's out the hitch rack out front. Why you.

[Uncle Zach]

You didn't tie him up?

[Larry Brandon]

I never tie Star. He'll be there when I want him. You know, there ain't another waddy on earth that could ride him.

[Betty Cameron]

Oh, I'll bet I could.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, you sure are an optimist, Miss Betty.

[Uncle Zach]

Well, my horse is out back here. See if it comes to a chase, I want you to watch the way the black ghost disappears. It's a sight to see.

[Larry Brandon]

Well, I'll try to be on hand, Uncle Zach. That is, if he gets away.

[Betty Cameron]

Now you're the optimist, Mr. Brandon. He never fails to get away.

[Uncle Zach]

Look, look over there. Over there by the bar. There's that old cripple, Winthrop.

[Larry Brandon]

Oh yeah, that's the sheriff's pet, huh? He likes a sheriff just like so much poison.

[Uncle Zach]

Uh huh. And he ain't never happy unless he's plumb miserable.

[Larry Brandon]

And the sheriff takes it too.

[Uncle Zach]

Well, what else you suppose he can do? He can't hit a cripple, you know. Besides, Winthrop is.

[Winthrop]

Here's our full bad sheriff of cooling his heels while the population of our fair city is afraid to stick their.

[Larry Brandon]

Heads out of the winder.

[Winthrop]

Some sheriff, huh, boys?

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Ginger supper agree with you, Mr. Winslow?

[Winthrop]

What's that for you, Joe Haynes?

[Sheriff Joe Haines]

Oh, nothing. Only I reckon I'd be asking a lot of any supper to agree with you.

[Robber]

Grease with us, Stephen.

[Uncle Zach]

Men.

[Larry Brandon]

What's this?

[Robber]

Take him up high. I got you covered from the window. Move, Larry. Now you too, Sheriff.

[Larry Brandon]

Why? Why, he's outside the window.

[Robber]

All right, now every man line up again. The wall. Get over there. I'm the first one that makes a break. You stay. That's all. Turn around, Sheriff. Face the wall. You. Idaho, drop that gun. You hear me? Drop it. You over there with Zach. Put them hands higher.

[Uncle Zach]

Put him up, Larry. Ain't gotta show, you know. We're here in the light and he's outside that window in the dark.

[Larry Brandon]

All right, but just wait.

[Betty Cameron]

Isn't this exciting?

[Larry Brandon]

Keep stale.

[Robber]

Hey you, Winsor.

[Winthrop]

Oh, oh, me?

[Robber]

Yes, you. Get in behind that bar. Take the money out of that kilt and put it in a bag.

[Winthrop]

I won't do it. Ain't you satisfied to rob me without making me rob other folks? You dat gum rotten snake.

[Uncle Zach]

Shoot, I ain't as scared of you, old man. Do as you told. We don't want to see you murdered. Now go on, get the money.

[Winthrop]

Oh, so you're scared, huh?

[Uncle Zach]

Now don't be a fool. Winsor.

[Robber]

Winsor. I'm counting three. One, two.

[Winthrop]

Oh, all right, I'll do it. I'll do it. That gumment all get over there in a minute. All right, what will it do now?

[Robber]

Walk out the door with it out the front door and then come to me and step lively.

[Winthrop]

How can I step lively with crutches, huh? You are snake. If I was sound and well, if.

[Robber]

You was sound and well, you'd be dead. Now get a move on. I ain't got all night.

[Winthrop]

Well, all right. I'm going, ain't I? Ready?

[Larry Brandon]

What's the chances now, Uncle Zach?

[Uncle Zach]

You got the sheriff covered. You want to see him killed? Old man Winthrop's outside with the money.

[Betty Cameron]

I see a rifle barrel in the window now. No, it's a six gun. Look, Uncle Dick. Idaho's trying to get his gun to help stop him.

[Robber]

Steady there. Every man stay put.

[Betty Cameron]

Uncle Zack, Idaho's got his gun. Oh.

[Robber]

Here. You get away from him. Get away.

[Uncle Zach]

He got him. Wait. You.

[Robber]

You shut up. The first man man that moves gets his watch along. Boys, you better stay put a while.

[Larry Brandon]

Oh, I'd like to get just one shot at that snake.

[Uncle Zach]

Steady, boy. Our turn will come.

[Robber]

And here's something to remember me by. Come on, boys, let's get out that door. Come on.

[Larry Brandon]

Get it.

[Uncle Zach]

Get it.

[Larry Brandon]

Side. Yes.

[Uncle Zach]

Die. Start. Larry, where are you?

[Larry Brandon]

Yeah, I am, Uncle Zach.

[Uncle Zach]

Well, come on, ride with me. All right now, boys, let's go.