Challenge of The Yukon 43-07-17 0285 Meeting The Terms of A Contract

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Challenge of The Yukon 43-07-17 0285 Meeting The Terms of A Contract"

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: Reliving the Golden Age of Radio, this podcast transports listeners to a time before television, where families gathered around the radio to enjoy iconic shows such as The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, and Dragnet.
• Episode: Challenge of The Yukon 43-07-17 0285 Meeting The Terms of A Contract
• Release Date: June 14, 2025

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of Challenge of The Yukon, listeners are transported to the harsh and lawless environment of the Yukon during the 1898 gold rush. The story unfolds with Sergeant Preston, a dedicated member of the North Mounted Police, and his loyal lead dog, King, as they navigate challenges to maintain law and order amidst greed and violence.

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Setting the Scene

[00:31] Bill Morgan introduces the main characters and the setting:

"The challenge of the Yukon Arn King. Sergeant Preston was typical of the small band of North Mounted Police who preserved law and order in the Yukon during the gold rush of '98."

The frenzied influx of over 50,000 men into the Klondike region brought not only gold seekers but also "frequent violence and bloodshed" ([00:36]). Despite these odds, the North Mounted Police upheld justice, with the Yukon presenting its own unique challenges.

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The Discovery

[01:42] Sergeant Preston and King are on patrol:

"What is it, King? All right, King, you lead the way."

They discover partially covered footprints in the snow, leading to a cave. Upon investigation, they find an abundance of pelts—fox, lynx, and beaver—suggesting a trapper's stash. However, the sheer quantity of dog and wolf pelts raises suspicion about the trapper's true intentions.

Sergeant Preston remarks:

"I can understand a trapper building up a supply of high grade pelts. But why would he keep so many of these? Worthless."

---

Introduction of Antagonists

[04:11] The scene shifts to the antagonists, Vance and Duval, who are involved in shady dealings:

"Our agreements will make us rich. We don't pay until the shipment is made."

Duval praises their contract strategy:

"That contract was the smartest thing you ever put together, Vance."

Vance reveals their dubious plan to exploit the trapper’s trust through legally binding contracts, ensuring they benefit financially without fulfilling their obligations.

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Rising Tension

As they discuss their scheme, Vance becomes increasingly paranoid, sensing an intruder in the cave. His distrust leads to escalating tension with Duval:

[05:32] Vance warns:

"There's someone in this cave. I'll take this time."

The confrontation intensifies, culminating in Vance attempting to shoot the perceived threat, which turns out to be Sergeant Preston. However, King's intelligence shines through as he helps Sergeant Preston escape by chewing through his ropes.

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Climax: The Ambush

[07:35] Vance and Duval capture Sergeant Preston, tying him up with the intent to eliminate him. They plot to burn him alive with the valuable pelts to cover their tracks:

"We'll have to go ahead with our plans tonight. We can't waste any time."

Their plan involves setting the warehouse ablaze, ensuring there’s no evidence left behind except for the incriminating fire.

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Resolution: Justice Prevails

Despite their meticulous planning, Sergeant Preston, thanks to King’s loyalty and bravery, manages to escape the burning warehouse. He confronts Vance and Duval, who attempt to absolve themselves by claiming ignorance of Preston’s survival and trying to manipulate legal technicalities.

[13:22] Sergeant Preston asserts:

"You tried to kill me, Duval."

The tension reaches its peak as Preston declares:

"Your furs, together with the furs of the other trappers, are all safe in a cave about two miles from here."

Vance and Duval realize their scheme is unraveling. Sergeant Preston ensures their arrest and upholds the law, reinforcing the integrity of the North Mounted Police.

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Notable Quotes

• Sergeant Preston ([01:42]): "We'll get back at the far end of the cave. So now here should be safe."
• Vance ([05:25]): "We might as well stay right here till sundown."
• Duval ([07:00]): "If you'd have shot him when I told you."
• Sergeant Preston ([13:25]): "You tried to kill me, Duval."
• Vance ([12:41]): "We don't allow a cent for any losses."
• Sergeant Preston ([13:12]): "I'll prove it, Hankins. I'll take you to that cave where you'll find your furs."

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Conclusion

In this captivating episode, Challenge of The Yukon masterfully portrays the struggle between law enforcement and criminal enterprise in the rugged Yukon landscape. Through Sergeant Preston’s unwavering commitment and King’s heroic actions, justice prevails against the deceitful plans of Vance and Duval. The narrative underscores themes of loyalty, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of justice, making it a memorable addition to the classic radio drama series.

Listeners are left anticipating the next adventure of Sergeant Preston and King, who continue to defend the integrity of the Yukon against new challenges.

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Additional Information

This episode was brought to life through the rich storytelling tradition of Harold's Old Time Radio, capturing the essence of early 20th-century radio dramas. Produced in the transcription studios of WXYZ Detroit, Challenge of The Yukon remains a beloved feature of the Michigan radio network, celebrating fictitious yet compelling tales of heroism and moral fortitude.

Transcript

[Advocate for Tobacco Control]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, if I try this once, it won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action. @ flavorshookoregonkids.org, pay for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Bill Morgan]

The challenge of the Yukon Arn King.

[Duval]

Are you husky?

[Bill Morgan]

King, the swiftest, strongest of Eskimo lead dogs, blazes the trail through storm and snow for Sergeant Preston as he meets the challenge of the Yukon. Sergeant Preston was typical of the small band of north mounted police who preserved law and order in the Yukon during the gold rush of 98. That was the year that brought over 50,000 men swarming into the Klondike region. And the greed for gold led to frequent violence and bloodshed. But in spite of the odds against them, the force preserved a splendid record in maintaining the right. The challenge of the north was answered, and justice ruled. Triumphant. It was early afternoon, and Sergeant Preston was on patrol duty in the Yukon with his lead dog, the great King. The snow was swept clean from much of the land, and Preston had left his sled and team in town.

[Sergeant Preston]

What is it, King? All right, King, you lead the way. He's going after something, but I can't make out what it is. He's following ascent. It'll be a good idea to see what it leads to. All right, boy, I'm coming. Yes. Eye seeking footprints. Huh? Well, that's strange. Snow's partially covered those tracks. But it's worth investigating. The wind swept this land. Clean the track.

[Duval]

Stop.

[Sergeant Preston]

King, old fellow, you'll have to lead from here on that cave over there. Is that where you're going, King? Well, King, you've never been wrong before. Whatever's in that cave must be pretty important. This is one place we've missed on our patrols, King. Hmm. Here's some wood. Someone uses this cave. But what for? Look at these pelts. Fox, lynx, beaver. Why, they're beautiful. Trapper who uses this cave for a storeroom has certainly got a fortune in furs one man couldn't have. Well, this cave is full of pelts. Yes, King. What's over there now? Oh, I see. So this is what had you so excited Boy. Now what would any trapper with these rich skins be doing with dog and wolf pelts? They have no value. I can understand a trapper building up a supply of high grade pelts. But why would he keep so many of these? Worthless. What is it, boy?

[Bill Morgan]

Him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Someone coming. Yes, King. There's something wrong here. We can't get out without being discovered. We'll get back at the far end of the cave. So now here should be safe. Here. Now play dead, King. Play dead, boy.

[Vance]

Well, this is another bunch. We'll catch you now.

[Duval]

There. That's the last of them. Thank heaven. I'm so tired hauling these pelts.

[Vance]

Colin's almost over now. Take one more load of dog and wolf skins to the storehouse and then the whole thing can go up in smoke.

[Duval]

Yeah, those trappers, they'll take it mighty hard. It's a good thing you made them sign those contracts.

[Vance]

Our agreements will make us rich. We don't pay until the shipment is made.

[Duval]

That contract was the smartest thing you ever put together, Vance.

[Vance]

I'm jack of all trades and it pays to know a little about em all. I didn't have much to do with any law, but I can draw up a watertight contract. And there's not a thing any of those trappers can do to break their agreements.

[Duval]

Just look at that beaver skin. It's a beauty.

[Vance]

It's a beauty all right. We're sitting mighty pretty. Look at those fox pelts.

[Duval]

These skins will bring a fortune.

[Vance]

Yeah, we have a gold mine in the fur business.

[Duval]

All them trappers need us to hear the prices we pay for the skins. And they're bringing the best ones to us in carloads.

[Vance]

The best part of it is we pay when shipment's made and we never ship.

[Duval]

We can't tote these wolf and dog skins to the warehouse of dark, Vance.

[Sergeant Preston]

No.

[Vance]

We might as well stay right here till sundown.

[Duval]

I'll start a fire.

[Vance]

Wait a minute. Leave that firewood alone. Let me listen.

[Duval]

What's eating you, Vance?

[Vance]

There's someone in this cave.

[Duval]

Who could be it?

[Vance]

There's someone in here, I tell you.

[Duval]

Listen, Vance, Ain't a soul knows about this cave. We can look around just to make sure if it'll make you feel any better.

[Vance]

It's no joke, Duval. I know there's someone in here.

[Duval]

We got a sixth sense. Vance, you go along that wall.

[Vance]

I'll take this time.

[Duval]

Well, there's so many parts of this cave we can look all night and still not be anywhere.

[Vance]

Shut up.

[Duval]

I don't Know what's got into you lately, Vance? He was never so edgy before.

[Vance]

Come out with your hands up and it'll go a lot easier with you.

[Duval]

We ain't gonna walk into our arms, Vance. If there is somebody in here, you know that.

[Vance]

Then we'll search this cave till we find him.

[Bill Morgan]

Come on.

[Duval]

I don't know where he gets these ideas. Someone in the cave. He's taking this thing pretty serious.

[Vance]

That's a warning. Come out with your hands up.

[Duval]

You shot loosened some rocks. Hey, what the.

[Vance]

I told you there was somebody in here. Now bring that light over. I've got a gun and I'm going to use it.

[Duval]

Maybe some of that rock hit him. Pence, hurry up with that light. Jumping horn. Toads of Mountie.

[Vance]

Well, I never expected to meet Sergeant Preston knocked out by a couple of falling rocks. Come on, Doval. We'll tie him up before he regains consciousness.

[Duval]

Here's some of that rope we used to tie the pelts together.

[Vance]

That'll be all right. If that mutt move, shoot him. There, that does it. You have a hard time getting free of these ropes.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, my head.

[Vance]

Shut up, you mutt.

[Sergeant Preston]

King, old fella, we gotta do something.

[Duval]

About this Mount events.

[Sergeant Preston]

You heard us talking.

[Vance]

Don't worry, we'll take care of him. Shoot that mutt, Duval.

[Sergeant Preston]

Quiet, King.

[Vance]

Call him out here.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, King. Come on out, boy.

[Vance]

Shoot him, Duval. Oh, now Fancy, you heard me. Are you going to shoot him or will I?

[Sergeant Preston]

Make a break for King.

[Vance]

Go on, get him.

[Sergeant Preston]

No you won't, Vance. You're not going to kill King.

[Vance]

Go ahead, shoot, Duval.

[Duval]

Ah, it's no use, Vance. He's clean away.

[Vance]

If you'd have shot him when I told you.

[Duval]

King. Hey, King, is that the dog?

[Vance]

Yeah. That's the smartest lead dog in the Yukon. And now he's gone to bring help. Thanks to you.

[Duval]

We better get rid of this mouthy pass then, Vance.

[Vance]

Sure, fine. Have you got any ideas?

[Duval]

Put a couple of bullets in him right now.

[Vance]

You should have thought of that when the dog was here. Now it's suicide to kill a Marty.

[Sergeant Preston]

You'll never get away with this.

[Vance]

Listen Preston, this is one time you're not holding the gun. You'll die. All right, but without bullet marks on you.

[Sergeant Preston]

You can't win, Vance. Sometime and soon the inspector will send one of the other Marty's to see what's happened.

[Vance]

Let him. By that time Duval and me will be so far out of the Yukon your law will never catch up with us. Now don't worry. When you're found, pressing is not going to look like murder.

[Duval]

What do you aim to do with him, Vince?

[Vance]

We'll gag him and take him for a walk.

[Duval]

You mean.

[Vance]

Yes. We'll have to go ahead with our plans tonight. We can't waste any time. That dog will have someone back here in a few hours. You're right.

[Duval]

Let's pack up these furs and get moving.

[Bill Morgan]

Late that night, with heavy packs on their shoulders, Vance and Duvall sneaked into Machidi and forced Preston at the point of a gun to go ahead of them.

[Vance]

He'll go right to the warehouse.

[Duval]

Yeah, sooner we get there, the better. I don't like going through the town carrying this stuff.

[Vance]

Don't worry. No one will stop us.

[Duval]

I'm thinking about that dog.

[Vance]

Once Preston's out of the way, our troubles are over. Course, it'd be different if that mutt could talk. Here we are.

[Duval]

I never was so glad to see any place in all my. This mountie was downright obedient.

[Vance]

Throw him down on top of some of those worthless pelts, then tie his feet.

[Duval]

All right, mountie.

[Sergeant Preston]

You won't be able.

[Duval]

To move when I finish tying this.

[Vance]

Put a lot of these dog skins around him. You figure he wants sergeant Preston's death in the fire to look real? We want to be sure there's not a chance for him to get out alive.

[Duval]

I get you, Vance. That way you can say he was caught trying to save someone from the burning warehouse, huh?

[Sergeant Preston]

Good idea.

[Vance]

Someone in this outfit has got to get ideas, Commander. Bar, we put some of this oil.

[Duval]

Around, that ought to be enough vents.

[Vance]

Yeah, that'll do it. Now I'll take this lamp.

[Duval]

Those skins burn plenty fast.

[Vance]

This place will be an inferno in five minutes.

[Duval]

Less than that. Come on, let's get out of here.

[Vance]

I don't want to be too close to this place when the fire is discovered.

[Bill Morgan]

Attracted first by the red glow of the flames against the darkness of the night, men poured from ramshackle buildings surrounding the warehouse and watched the fire. They knew the furs inside were lost. They knew that the cost of the damage would break many a trapper's heart. But they didn't know that inside the building, Sergeant Preston lay bound and gay, helpless in the face of certain death. A tall, lanky trapper came from Machiti City's cafe. The expression on his face told the story more eloquently than words.

[Duval]

Hey, all my furs are in there.

[Vance]

Look at them flames.

[Duval]

I'm going in there.

[Vance]

You're Local. If you do, you'll never get out alive.

[Sergeant Preston]

My warehouse.

[Vance]

We're ruined. Ain't a chance in the world to save anything novel. If that building caves in. We haven't a chance.

[Duval]

Yes, and it's going.

[Vance]

My furs.

[Duval]

Man. Man.

[Vance]

Man, listen to me.

[Duval]

You better make good of them furs, Vince.

[Vance]

What are you gonna do about it, Vince? Boys, I'm sorry. What about us, Vince? We won't lose everything, will we? What if my Vince would listen to me? You men all signed agreements with us. We agreed to pay when we shipped the furs. If the furs aren't shipped, we don't pay.

[Duval]

You mean I've lost a whole year's chapel in that fire and I get nothing to show for it?

[Vance]

I'm sorry, Hankins, but there's not a thing we can do about it.

[Duval]

We lost the warehouse.

[Vance]

Here goes the business. That does it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do.

[Vance]

Well, Preston's covered with red hot embers by now.

[Duval]

I gotta hand it to you, Vance.

[Vance]

Well, Hankins, what was in that warehouse is just a hopeless loss. Now, you ought to give us at.

[Duval]

Least a quarter of what our furs were worth, Vance. If we'd have taken to Hudson Bay Company, we'd.

[Vance]

Well, you didn't take them to the Hudson Bay Company. Why do you suppose you pay such high prices? We got competition to meet. We meet it the best way we know how. That's with highest prices. We don't allow a cent for any losses.

[Sergeant Preston]

You don't have to take a loss, Hank Preston.

[Duval]

No, no, wait. I'm seeing things, huh?

[Vance]

How did that Muddy.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm not saying things, Duvall, but you soon will be the inside of a jail.

[Vance]

That mutt, he must.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, Vance. Thanks to King here, I got out of that burning warehouse. He chewed through the ropes.

[Duval]

What did you mean, sergeant? You said I don't have to take no loss.

[Sergeant Preston]

I meant just what I said, Hankins. Your furs, together with the furs of the other trappers are all safe in a cave about two miles from here.

[Duval]

Well, how big?

[Sergeant Preston]

Vance and Duvall are under arrest.

[Vance]

You'll have to prove your story first, Mountie.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll prove it, Hankins. I'll take you to that cave where you'll find your furs.

[Duval]

Well, it ain't no crime to put furs in a cave. And as for yourself, Mountie, you can't prove.

[Sergeant Preston]

Maybe I can't prove. You tried to kill me, Duvol.

[Vance]

You have no charge, Preston. You know it. You can't prove we burned down our own warehouse. We didn't know the furs had been transferred to the cave. Someone else did it. Yeah.

[Duval]

Yeah, that's right. We didn't know nothing about it.

[Sergeant Preston]

You have agreements with these trappers to pay them high prices. We you ship. You agreed to those high prices because you didn't expect to pay them. But we'll make sure you ship now, and the law will see you stand by every word of your agreement.

[Duval]

Sergeant, that contract gives him 30 days to ship.

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry, Hankins. They'll ship in 30 days. All right. And you will have your money. Yes, King. The case is closed.

[Bill Morgan]

Upholding the motto of the Northwest mounted police, Sergeant Preston and the great dog King maintain the right and get their men. Don't miss their next thrilling adventure when they meet the challenge of the Yukon once again on Saturday at 6:30. Challenge of the Yukon, a copyrighted feature of the challenge of the Yukon Incorporated, brought to you every Saturday at this time, originated in the transcription studios of WXYZ Detroit. The characters and events in tonight's drama were fictitious. Bill Morgan speaking. This is the Michigan radio network.

[Advocate for Tobacco Control]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, if I try this once, it won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge laws lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the campaign for tobacco Free kids Action Fund. Most people would rather assemble a 300 piece cabinet than search for insurance. That's why the zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find savings no one else can compare. Today@the zebra.com.