Have Gun, Will Travel 58-11-30 (002) Road to Wickenberg

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Have Gun, Will Travel 58-11-30 (002) Road to Wickenberg"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode Title: Have Gun, Will Travel 58-11-30 (002) Road to Wickenberg
• Release Date: February 27, 2025

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of "Have Gun, Will Travel," listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West, specifically to the town of Blue Bell and later, Wickenburg. The protagonist, Mr. John Dana as Paladin, navigates a tumultuous journey involving betrayal, gunfights, and unexpected alliances. Written by Gene Roddenberry and adapted for radio by John Dawson, this episode masterfully captures the tension and drama characteristic of the Golden Age of Radio.

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Scene Breakdown and Key Developments

Initial Confrontation at the Carlton Hotel (00:41 - 10:51)

The episode opens with Paladin arriving at the Carlton Hotel in San Francisco, his headquarters. A tense standoff ensues when Paladin threatens to kill the first man who speaks, highlighting his authoritative presence and the imminent danger surrounding him.

Notable Quote:

• Paladin (00:41): "There are four of you gentlemen, and I've only one bullet left in my derringer. So my choice is very simple. I'll kill the first man who speaks."

Paladin collects a substantial sum of money ($1,000) but soon finds himself pursued by a persuasive woman with long blonde hair—Sue Tyler—who complicates his mission.

Introduction of Sue Tyler and Betrayal (04:18 - 06:37)

Sue Tyler confronts Paladin, revealing her awareness of his intentions and past actions. Her sharp demeanor and knowledge of Paladin's vulnerabilities introduce a personal conflict that adds depth to the story.

Notable Quotes:

• Sue Tyler (04:18): "You're the one that belongs to that black horse outside."
• Paladin (05:23): "Sue Tyler."

Flashback and Realization (06:37 - 10:12)

Through Sue's accusations, Paladin recalls past betrayals and recognizes Saul Goodfellow, a familiar antagonist. This segment delves into Paladin's history, showcasing his vulnerabilities and the consequences of his previous encounters.

Notable Quote:

• Sue Tyler (06:37): "He took a thousand dollars from me. Took my gun, my holster. And I suppose my horse went along too."

Tense Negotiations and Strategy (10:12 - 16:17)

Paladin and Sue strategize their escape to Wickenburg, anticipating pursuit by their enemies. The dialogue reveals their resourcefulness and the high stakes involved as they prepare for confrontation.

Notable Quotes:

• Paladin (10:15): "You stay back at hose. Two shots. Now. Who wants the second one?"
• Sue Tyler (16:17): "How much longer?"
• Paladin (16:19): "Another two hours, we ought to be in Wickenburg."

Encounter with the Keystone Brothers (17:08 - 20:55)

As they approach Wickenburg, Paladin and Sue encounter the Keystone brothers, who are also pursuing them. A fierce gunfight breaks out, resulting in casualties on both sides. This intense conflict underscores the perilous nature of Paladin's mission and his unwavering determination.

Notable Quotes:

• Antagonist (18:41): "Paladin. Tom's hit. So's it. They need a doctor."
• Paladin (18:42): "Don't shoot me. Don't shoot now."

Arrival in Wickenburg and Resolution (20:55 - 22:56)

Upon reaching Wickenburg, Paladin faces the consequences of his actions and relationships. The interaction between Paladin and Sue Tyler culminates in emotional revelations and unresolved tensions, setting the stage for future developments.

Notable Quotes:

• Sue Tyler (22:23): "Never mind. I'll give it to him myself."
• Paladin (22:38): "Because of you."
• Sue Tyler (22:42): "You're a liar."

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Character Analysis and Interactions

• Paladin (Mr. John Dana): A complex protagonist embodying the archetypal Western hero—stoic, resourceful, yet emotionally vulnerable. His interactions with both antagonists and allies reveal his internal conflicts and moral code.

• Sue Tyler: A formidable female character whose intelligence and resilience challenge Paladin. Her history with Paladin adds layers to the narrative, highlighting themes of trust and betrayal.

• Saul Goodfellow and the Keystone Brothers: Represent the persistent antagonists whose pursuit drives the central conflict, emphasizing the relentless nature of Paladin's journey.

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Themes and Insights

• Trust and Betrayal: The evolving relationship between Paladin and Sue Tyler underscores the fragile nature of trust in a lawless environment.

• Survival and Strategy: Paladin's tactical decisions reflect the constant struggle for survival and the necessity of strategic thinking in hostile settings.

• Redemption and Purpose: Paladin's quest to return to San Francisco suggests a deeper search for redemption and a return to normalcy amidst chaos.

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Conclusion

"Road to Wickenberg" offers a captivating blend of action, character development, and thematic depth, staying true to the essence of classic radio dramas. Through its intricate plot and memorable dialogue, the episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the complexities of trust, loyalty, and survival in the unforgiving frontier.

Final Notable Quote:

• Sue Tyler (22:50): "I'll be ready at 7. Call for me then."

This poignant exchange encapsulates the unresolved tensions and lingering emotions between the characters, leaving the audience eager for the next installment.

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Production Credits:

• Created by: Herb Meadow and Sam Rolfe
• Produced and Directed by: Norman McDonnell
• Cast:
  • John Dana as Paladin
  • Ben Wright as Hey Boy
  • Lynn Allen
  • Jack Edwards
  • Vic Parron
  • Harry Bartel
  • Frank Gerstel
  • Eve McVeigh
  • Hugh Douglas as a guest speaker

Join us next week for another riveting episode of "Have Gun, Will Travel," where adventure and drama continue to unfold in the Old West.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Perdio sutra bajo reduheron susoras pondera calificar para los beneficios del segro de desempleo de Oregon. Es gratis applicar sin costos nitarifas paroptender beneficios illos servicios de interpretacion Estandis ponibiles presentar su solicitud es facil. Llame al. Uno, ocho, siete, siete, tres, cuatro, cinco, tres cuatro, ocho, cuatro uno, ocho, siete, siete, tres, cuatro, cinco, tres, cuatro, ocho, cuatro para yuda. Encual quier?

[Paladin]

There are four of you gentlemen, and I've only one bullet left in my derringer. So my choice is very simple. I'll kill the first man who speaks. Have gun will travel starring Mr. John Dana as Paladin San Francisco, 1875. The Carlton Hotel. Headquarters of the man called Paladin. Mr. Paladin. Mr. Paradine. Over here. Hey boy. Oh, yes, sir. A bank almost closed. Here. The money. $1,000. Good, good. Thank you, hey boy. Bring the saddlebag along with you. Wait. You go, I go. You just come back from going, I go again. Oh, I see. I see. A lovely lady with long blonde hair who lives in swedes is just a bit too purposeful for my taste at the moment. In short, hey boy, she is chasing me. Oh, very, very persuasive lady, Mr. Paladin. And less apt to persuade me to marry her if I'm not around. Give me the bag. Absence make the heart grow fonder. And it also makes the eye wander. Especially a lady's eye. Easy, boy, easy. Very pretty lady. Why you not marry hot? Well, a woman has to be something besides pretty for me to go that far. Oh, wait. Someday you come across a woman who is something beside pretty. Then. Then what? Ah, then what indeed, my friend. Hold any messages that come for me. Oh, send message by wire. Where you go where I can't be reached. Where? That I don't know. But I'll find it. Come on, boy. Howdy. Hello. Passing through? I haven't made up my mind yet. What's the name of this town? We call her blue bell. Looking for a job? Just a drink, and they'll give you one in there, and you can pay for it. Thank you, sheriff. What'll it be? Hover grass Ry? Just give me the bottle of the glass. That'll be $5. All right. Must have worked up quite a thirst, stranger. I'LL get you a better brand than the bar bottle. Anything else and this will do? Yeah, it oughta.

[Sue Tyler]

You're the one that belongs to that black horse outside.

[Paladin]

That's right.

[Sue Tyler]

Nice animal.

[Paladin]

Would you care for a drink?

[Sue Tyler]

No, thanks. And I got a piece of advice for you, stranger. I wouldn't drink any of that.

[Paladin]

I already have. Why? Get along, Sue. Customers waiting for you at the Faroe? No, just a minute. There's a customer right here at the bar. I said get.

[Sue Tyler]

See you around, mister.

[Paladin]

Now, look, I'm kind of careless, stranger. Why was it not drinking whiskey, mister, that's all I sell. Look, I. I asked you a question. And I'm giving you an answer. Who are you? That's who I am.

[Sue Tyler]

Remember me?

[Paladin]

Oh. Girl in the saloon.

[Sue Tyler]

Right. You're in my place. Remember what happened? In a way, I slipped enough drugs in your drink to kill a horse. Here. Can you sit up?

[Paladin]

Oh, I felt better.

[Sue Tyler]

Pretty stupid, mister. Flashing a thick roll of bills.

[Paladin]

Oh, it's gone.

[Sue Tyler]

Sure.

[Paladin]

No Barbary coast trick.

[Sue Tyler]

How come you fell for it?

[Paladin]

No excuse. I was careless.

[Sue Tyler]

Man's always got an excuse for everything. Every one of you is handsome and clever. Been everywhere, broke a hundred hearts. You've all got the same high opinion of yourselves.

[Paladin]

Well, that's the. Ooh. Ooh, my ribs.

[Sue Tyler]

He tried to finish you off with his boot.

[Paladin]

Hootin.

[Sue Tyler]

Saul Goodfellow.

[Paladin]

Saul Goodfellow. I remember.

[Sue Tyler]

Here. You need this.

[Paladin]

My derringer.

[Sue Tyler]

Saw him is something else when he searched his card. Gone will travel. I like the sound of that. Will you kill him?

[Paladin]

He took a thousand dollars from me. Took my gun, my holster. And I suppose my horse went along too.

[Sue Tyler]

You suppose right. Will you kill him?

[Paladin]

Would you care?

[Sue Tyler]

I felt Sol's boot too.

[Paladin]

You know, I have a lot to thank you for.

[Sue Tyler]

You can thank me by letting me go with you. It's the only way I can leave this town.

[Paladin]

What's your name?

[Sue Tyler]

Sue Tyler.

[Paladin]

Sue, you can pack whatever you want. I'll take you as far as Wickenburg. But I'm gonna see Mr. Goodfellow before I leave. Of all baby filters cigarettes. Kent filters best. Can't filters best. It makes good sense when you smoke Kent. Kent filters best. Of all other brands of cigarettes. Kent tastes the best. Kent tastes the best. Richer taste and all the rest. Kent little taste best. It makes good sense when you smoke it. A balding filter cigarette can filter that. Still in town, stranger? Sheriff, when I came here this morning, I had a horse, a gun and a thousand dollars. I intend to leave the same way. You saying somebody stole your money? What's his name? Saul Goodfellow. I just can't go along with that. Just tell me where I can find him. That won't be hard to do. You just called my brother a thief. I'm Jack Goodfellow. Next thing you'll be saying is that Cousin Jim there doctored your drink. Howdy. Or that maybe our Uncle Ed over there has your horse and your saddlebag. Howdy, mister. Seems to be your town. Sort of a family affair, but. Sal. Sal, come here. What? Well, I hear he's making a complaint against you. That's the truth. I'll trouble you for my gun and my money. What are you talking about? That gun in your holster, money in your pocket. So ask him. Why don't he just take them? It's the gun you say I took, mister. That's the gun. I'll tell you what. I'm going to take five bullets out of this here gun, see? And I'm going to throw them away like this. Now, I got one shell left in here, and I'm gonna kill you with this one bullet if you try to take his gun. So come on. Take it if you can, mister. Hand it over. You'll be dead before you can draw the hammer back. That so?

[Sue Tyler]

Get that danger.

[Paladin]

You stay back at hose. Two shots. Now. Who wants the second one? All right, I'll take my gun. My money. There's only 200. I see. Each took a share. Drop your gunpowder. Don't do it. He killed Sal. But we got four guns. And he's only got one bullet left in that derringer. One's better than none. We got him. When I say three. Three. Draw one. If you say two, I'll kill you. Keep cop. I'll kill the next man who speaks. Yeah, it's true. She's going to run us down. Whoa.

[Sue Tyler]

Come on.

[Paladin]

Come on. Get a boy. All right, give me those lines and get down low. Thanks. You know, for a girl, you drive pretty well.

[Sue Tyler]

Better head to the river. You be coming after?

[Paladin]

Yeah. We'll stop here. Give me your bag.

[Sue Tyler]

I can carry my hat.

[Paladin]

I've noticed that. Well, let me help you. Now, by the time they backtrack, it'll be dark. We'll spend the night here.

[Sue Tyler]

Can I see that derringer? Minute.

[Paladin]

Here.

[Sue Tyler]

I'm gonna take a bath in the river. Got three years of bluebell to wash out of my skin. And if you so much as look that way, I'll kill you.

[Paladin]

You pull that trigger and you'll show four rifles our hiding place. Come on, give it to me. Come on. Thanks. You have your bath and all?

[Sue Tyler]

Right.

[Paladin]

I'll try to find some supp.

[Sue Tyler]

Rabbit. Smells good. Ain't you afraid of showing smoke?

[Paladin]

No. Dry.

[Narrator]

Los beneficios del segro de desemplo de oregon. Es gratis applicar sincostos nitarifas paroptender beneficios y los servicios de interpretacion. Estandis pon ibles presentar su solicitud es facil yame al uno ocho, siete, siete, tres, cuatro, cinco, tres cuatro, ocho, cuatro. Uno ocho, siete, siete, tres, cuatro, cinco, tres, cuatro, ocho, cuatro para yuda. Encual quier mesquite doesn't smoke.

[Sue Tyler]

I help you cook supper. I wash my clothes. They're dry. And I gotta stay in this blanket.

[Paladin]

Sit down.

[Sue Tyler]

Any side of him when you was out catching the dinner?

[Paladin]

No.

[Sue Tyler]

How come we spend the night here? Seems darkness might be the best time to run for wickenburg.

[Paladin]

The moon rises in an hour. It'll be almost as bright as day.

[Sue Tyler]

That's all.

[Paladin]

I want them to tire their horses searching for us. Tonight. Ours will be fresh in the morning. We may be able to outrun them, but we sure can't. I'd fight them with one bullet.

[Sue Tyler]

Ain't got no other reason in mind for us staying here?

[Paladin]

No.

[Sue Tyler]

Where do you go after Wickenburg?

[Paladin]

Back at san francisco.

[Sue Tyler]

Paladin, do you have a wife or. Or anything?

[Paladin]

No.

[Sue Tyler]

Take me with you. I'm pretty dressed up, right? No man would be ashamed of me. I'm healthy and I'm strong. I'm no lily handed lady that expects more than she's willing to give. I'm not asking for the center cut of your life. Go as you please and do as you please. Just say something nice to me now and then. That's all I ask. Just think about it until we get to Wickenburg.

[Paladin]

You're. You're something besides pretty.

[Sue Tyler]

What does that mean?

[Paladin]

I'll tell you. In Wickenburg.

[Sue Tyler]

When a cloud bursts and fresh, clean rain falls on a grove.

[Paladin]

Of rich green pine, it's.

[Sue Tyler]

Mmm, so nice.

[Paladin]

And now that same clean scent of pine is in new pine scented lysol. Right now, the one and only genuine lysol brand disinfectant comes in a new pine scent. It disinfects, deodorizes as nothing else does. Kills diseased germs on contact in laboratory tests, Lysol's anti germ action kept working for seven full days. A bottle costs as little as 29 cents. And it's so easy to use. Just add new pine scented lysol to your suds. When you clean in bathroom, kitchen, nursery, sick room, use pine scented lysol. Because lysol deep cleans make your home pine sweet. Lysol clean. You can still get regular Lysol, too.

[Sue Tyler]

How much longer?

[Paladin]

Another two hours, we ought to be in wickenburg.

[Sue Tyler]

What's the matter?

[Paladin]

There's somebody up ahead there. Hey, you there.

[Sue Tyler]

Paladin, Use the whip.

[Paladin]

There's no need. He isn't armed. Hey, how about a ride to wickenburg? What's the matter? I've been rustled or whatever you call it. Just because one of their horses had thrown a shoe, they took mine right out of the traces. Four men? Yes. How'd you know? Who are you? Peter keystone hide and telebuyer. From new york. For who? For my father. He owns the plant. I need a gun. Is there one in your rig there? Well, that's one on your hip, isn't it? It's empty. Have you got one or ammunition? What's going on? Those four asked me the same question.

[Sue Tyler]

Those men you saw, the one who took your horse. They're after us. They'll kill me.

[Paladin]

Kill you? A pretty girl like you? Quiet. Have you got a gun? There's a repeating rifle under the seat and some shells to go with it. Just a minute now. I didn't see. I know you didn't. This will do.

[Sue Tyler]

What are we going to do?

[Paladin]

Get down.

[Sue Tyler]

Down the road, Coming up in cover.

[Paladin]

I see them. They don't know we have a gun. What's going on? Just stay down and stay right here, both of you.

[Sue Tyler]

But I. You stay with me, Mr. Key.

[Paladin]

Yeah, stay with her. I'm going to work my way up towards them. All right, paladin, we got you cut off. Ain't no sense in trying to fight us with one bullet. What are we waiting for with that deringer? He ain't got no range. Get him. He's got a rifle.

[Sue Tyler]

Bullet.

[Paladin]

Paladin. Tom's hit. So's it. They need a doctor. Come out with your hands up. Sure, sure, but don't shoot me. Don't shoot now. That's far enough. Now get the rest of my money and throw it on the ground. Stand back. What are you going to do to me? You go get my wagon and drive it up Here, and load those wounded men on it. Your wagon's gone. One her and that other fella took off in it. All right, mister. Good fellow, Hitch one of your horses onto his rig. It's better than nothing. I want to get the Wickenburg.

[Sue Tyler]

You're the sweetest honey.

[Paladin]

You know, in new york, I never saw anyone just like you. I think. Oh, hello, Mr. Keystone.

[Sue Tyler]

Hello.

[Paladin]

Good afternoon, mister. I. I didn't want to jump in that rig and run, but I was thinking of sue here. A gentleman always considers a lady first. The question is, what does a lady consider first?

[Sue Tyler]

It was your fight, not his or mine.

[Paladin]

But I'm sure glad you came out all right.

[Sue Tyler]

Well, what are you looking at me for? I ain't done nothing wrong.

[Paladin]

No, of course not. But this is Wickenburg. I promised you an answer to something. Here.

[Sue Tyler]

You've got some kind of lies to spread. Go ahead. Men are always lying, Sue. Not you, but most of them.

[Paladin]

All I have for you, Ms. Tyler, is an expression of gratitude for the third and last time in our cat Casual relationship. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Keystone. Wait a minute. Don't go, Mr. Paladin.

[Sue Tyler]

Let him go. He pretends to be such a gentleman. He's just a gunfighter, like I told you. I hardly know him. I saw through him right from the first.

[Paladin]

That's odd. Just now I have a feeling he's looking right through you.

[Sue Tyler]

Look. Don't let him change our plans. You promised to take me to new york with you. Where are you going?

[Paladin]

Maybe we better talk some more about new york. Later.

[Sue Tyler]

Well, what now, Paladin?

[Paladin]

You're very pretty, miss Tyler. Goodbye. Oh, Mr. Paladin. Welcome back to san francisco. Thank you. Hey boy. I think maybe you've gone a long time. You're not gone so long at all. No. Tell me, did I get any messages? Oh, yes. All kinds of messages. But any particular messages from a particular lady? Oh, you mean pretty lady with blonde hair who want to marry you fast? Yes. You want? Of course I want. Where is it? No. Sensible. You run away from her, you run back to her. You run away again. If I give you message? Not a chance. Now give me the message.

[Sue Tyler]

Never mind. I'll give it to him myself. There.

[Paladin]

Satisfied?

[Sue Tyler]

I don't know answer to questions first. Why did you go away?

[Paladin]

Because of you.

[Sue Tyler]

Why did you come back?

[Paladin]

Because of you.

[Sue Tyler]

You're a liar.

[Paladin]

Because of you. Dinner.

[Sue Tyler]

I'll be ready at 7. Call for me then.

[Paladin]

I very, very pretty. Yes, very pretty. And that's enough for now. Have gun Will Travel, created by Herb Meadow and Sam Rolfe, is produced and directed by Norman McDonnell and stars John Dana as Paladin, with Ben Wright as Hey Boy. Tonight's story was written by Gene Roddenberry and adapted for radio by John Dawson. Featured in the cast were Lynn Allen, Jack Edwards, Vic Parron, Harry Bartel, Frank Gerstel and Eve McVeigh. Hugh Douglas speaking. Join us again next week for have Gun Will.