Hopalong Cassidy 52-03-15 (104) The Santa Claus Rustlers

Summary

Hopalong Cassidy: "The Santa Claus Rustlers"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: December 23, 2025
Airdate of Radio Show: March 15, 1952
Episode Number: 104
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Overview

This episode of Hopalong Cassidy, titled "The Santa Claus Rustlers," is a heartwarming holiday-themed tale set just before Christmas. Hopalong Cassidy and his sidekick, California Carlson, are on their way home for the holidays when a series of misadventures—including a thrown horseshoe and a chance encounter with a runaway boy—leads them to become embroiled in a case of cattle rustling threatening the Christmas spirit of the Stillwell family. The story blends wholesome family values, comedic moments, and a classic Western mystery, ultimately delivering a message about generosity and holiday spirit.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. A Run-In on the Trail

• [00:32] Hopalong and California’s journey home is disrupted when Hopalong’s horse throws a shoe, highlighting their camaraderie and banter.
  • Notable Comic Exchange:
    • California: "We ain't got no spare shoes."
    • Hopalong: "What?"
    • California: "But I told you, got no nails neither."

2. Introducing Billy Stillwell

• [01:40] They meet Billy, a precocious and talkative young boy running away to earn money for Christmas presents and a tree for his family.
  • Billy: "I got the best popping mom in the whole wide world. Even China. That’s why I’m running away. I gotta get some money before Christmas so I can buy them some presents and a tree." [02:40]

3. Accusations and a Return to the Stillwell Ranch

• [03:13] Johnny No Name, a bitter ranch hand with a chip on his shoulder (and bad leg), accuses Hopalong and California of being cattle rustlers and brings them to the Stillwell ranch at gunpoint.

4. The Stillwell Family’s Hard Times

• [06:37] Amos Stillwell explains the family’s hardships: limited resources, each family member sacrificing for their herd, and the recent rustling making this holiday especially bleak.
  • "Ma sold her heirlooms and Betty gave up going east to school... We like to consider the Herd as belonging to each of us in equal shares." [07:08]
• The market for cows is too low to sell, further dampening holiday hopes.

5. Betty Stillwell and Rodeo Humiliation

• [09:00] Hopalong and California meet Betty, Amos’ daughter. She proves her mettle by beating California at calf roping.
  • Betty: "Oh, I'll bet you I can beat you at calf roping. Drizzle, push." [09:30]
  • Hopalong: "That was the bargain. Grizzle puss. And she beat you by 10 seconds." [09:58]

6. Christmas Spirit Amidst Hardship

• Billy expresses regret for worrying his mom, and Mrs. Stillwell laments the lack of funds for a tree or gifts.
  • Mrs. Stillwell: "We don't have ten cents and we don't hold with borrowing or charity. Thanks just the same, Mr. Cass." [11:55]
• Hopalong and California offer to help recover the stolen cattle instead of taking wages.

7. Escalation and Desperate Resolve

• [13:03 & 14:57] More cattle are stolen, pushing the family to the edge. The entire family resolves, with grim determination, to confront the thieves despite the dangers.

8. A Nighttime Ambush and Its Aftermath

• [15:37] The family’s pursuit is thwarted by warning shots in the dark—delivered by a mysterious, intentionally inaccurate marksman (later revealed to be Johnny).

9. Suspicion Falls on Johnny

• [17:58] Hopalong and California find Johnny spending large sums and his gun recently fired—circumstantial but inconclusive evidence.
  • California: "He's bought new boots. And look it, a rifle and a gold watch... sure didn't wait long to spend the money." [18:38]

10. Setting the Trap

• The group plans a Christmas Eve party as a ruse, stringing popcorn and lying in wait to expose the real rustlers.

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The Big Reveal

11. The Santa Claus Rustlers Unmasked

• [23:55] During the party, Hopalong and California "catch" the rustlers—who are actually the Stillwell family themselves!
  • Each family member had “rustled” from their own share of the herd to buy a Christmas tree and presents for one another, hoping to surprise the rest and bear the loss alone.
  • Hopalong: "Your folks and your sister are the Santa Claus rustlers. Each one took from his own share of the herd." [24:14]

12. Johnny's Redemption

• Johnny’s hostility was a cover; he only fired warning shots to protect the family’s secret and used his scant wages to buy gifts for Billy.
  • Hopalong: "I knew you had a change of heart when I saw those boots you bought. They were way too small for you." [25:12]

13. Christmas Forgiveness and Celebration

• Johnny confesses his outlaw parentage, but is embraced by the group.
  • Johnny: "Before I give any presents, you all should know I'm Johnny Bentley, son of an outlaw." [25:17]
  • He is reassured that his gift money is honest, and offered a future with the family.

14. A Joyful Finale

• California’s attempt to sing at the party backfires humorously when he realizes he’s eaten too much popcorn to sing.
  • California: "That popcorn. My voice is ruined." [26:14]
• The episode closes on a chorus of Christmas wishes.
  • Hopalong: "There's only one thing left to say. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas, everybody." [26:19]

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• Billy's Determination:
  "I got a pocket full of fudge... I gotta get some money before Christmas so I can buy them some presents and a tree." [01:51 & 02:40]

• California’s Humiliation:
  Betty: "I'll bet you I can beat you at calf roping."
  California: "Drizzle, push, drizzle, push. Why, darn it all, I shaved only last week... The dear gal does that, I'll shave clear down to the skin." [09:30]

• Hopalong on Bitterness:
  "He's got a bad streak. Guess he feels the world's against him on account of that bum leg. Tries to hate everybody. It's a lot of hate. A man can get sick doing that." [06:42]

• Stillwell Family Sacrifice:
  "Ma sold her heirlooms and Betty gave up going east to school. You see, I'd set aside a little money regular for her to do that, but... Betty tossed it into the pot without even asking me." [07:08]

• Family "Rustling" for Love:
  Hopalong: "Each one took from his own share of the herd... The fact that each rustling was the same size gave me a hunch." [24:17]

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Timestamps of Key Segments

• Hopalong and California stuck on the trail: [00:32]
• Meeting Billy Stillwell: [01:40]
• Confronted by Johnny; taken to Stillwell ranch: [03:13]
• Stillwell family struggles and sacrifices revealed: [06:37]
• Betty beats California at roping: [09:00]
• Christmas seems impossible for the Stillwells: [11:55]
• More cattle are stolen: [13:03], [14:57]
• Family prepares for confrontation; ambush avoided: [15:37]–[17:23]
• Suspicion on Johnny No Name: [17:58]–[19:08]
• Setting the trap at the Christmas party: [20:00]
• The true rustlers — the family revealed: [23:55]–[24:43]
• Johnny’s confession and reconciliation: [25:17]
• Christmas celebration & finale: [26:19]–[26:43]

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Tone & Style Notes

The episode is infused with warm-hearted banter, gentle humor, and a steadfast belief in the power of family, community, and redemption. Hopalong’s dignified moral leadership and California’s comic relief are classic Western archetypes that anchor the story.

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Final Thoughts

"The Santa Claus Rustlers" captures the classic themes of sacrifice, family, and community spirit that define both the Christmas holiday and the Western genre. It’s a feel-good story with wholesome humor, a heartwarming twist ending, and an inclusive message for listeners of all ages: real holiday spirit comes not from material gifts, but from caring for each other.

Transcript

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

Now this is kind of a special story that I call the Santa Claus Rustlers. It began shortly before Christmas as California and I were heading back to the bar. 20 after a trail drive to Southern Arizona. We were hoping to be home for the holidays. But one morning near Phoenix, my horse Topper threw a shoe. And this is what it led to.

[California Carlson]

Well, of all the darned luck, this takes the cake.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No use grumbling about it, California. Just hand me one of those spare shoes and some nails.

[California Carlson]

That's what I mean. We ain't got no spare shoes.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What?

[California Carlson]

But I told you, got no nails neither.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, what was the last thing I told you to do before we left Disney?

[California Carlson]

Get some shoes and nails and to shut up about the heat. Well now Hoppy, remember the Christmas spirit. Besides, I didn't have no room in my saddlebags for horseshoes.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No room? Of course you got room. Now I'll have to walk copper clear to Phoenix to get a new shoe.

[California Carlson]

Well, if it weren't for my rheumatism, a bad feed, I'd let you ride my horse.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hobby.

[California Carlson]

Sorry, you know that.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sure.

[California Carlson]

Well look, here comes a kid. Maybe there's a ranch near here where you can get a shoe.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, for your sake, I hope so. Hi, son.

[Billy Stillwell]

How do you sell what's happening?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Your horse?

[Billy Stillwell]

I'm running away. My name's Billy Stillwell. What's yours? Gee, ain't it hot? Want a piece of fudge? I got some here in my pocket.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, take a breath.

[California Carlson]

Regular little magpie.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm Hopal on Cassidy.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Billy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

This is my partner, California Carlson.

[Billy Stillwell]

You running away too?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Uh, no. Where are you headed?

[Billy Stillwell]

I don't know. Maybe China, maybe Phoenix. Any place where I can make some money quick. You know of anyone needing a top hand?

[California Carlson]

Top hand? This sprouts get man sized idea.

[Billy Stillwell]

I ain't as young as I look. Pop said my legs are beginning to bow already. I can learn anything that's got four legs. And I bet I can rope better.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Than you slow down, Billy. Let's talk about this for a minute. It's a little far to China, especially without money or food.

[Billy Stillwell]

I. I got a pocket full of fudge. Want a piece?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, thanks.

[California Carlson]

Well, now, I might just say no. No, thanks.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Billy, you wouldn't be running away because you disagreed with your folks about something, would you?

[Billy Stillwell]

Oh, no. I got the best popping mom in the whole wide world. Even China. That's why I'm running away. I gotta get some money before Christmas so I can buy them some presents and a tree. A tree?

[California Carlson]

You mean a Christmas tree, huh?

[Billy Stillwell]

They're awful sentimental, my folks. Every year they have a pine tree and presents. You know how mushy growed folks are about things like that.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. Yeah, we know, Billy.

[Billy Stillwell]

Pop ain't had no hard money from us tonight. Hey, there comes Johnny no Name Pop just hired him last week. Wonder what he's doing coming from Attaway. Hiya, Johnny. Hi. You there.

[California Carlson]

What's your business here? Our own, you snippy young. Oh, I'm sorry. Yeah, I got a bum leg, pops. But save your pity and answer my question. My gun's in good shape.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's a public road, son. We're heading home. Why? Where's that? The Bar 20.

[California Carlson]

Your names?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm Hopalong Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

I'm California Carlson. What's yours? Johnny no name. As the kid probably told you wouldn't wear out your brains. Getting curious about that, though. Curiosity makes my trigger finger itch. Now, let's have a look in those saddlebags of yours. Watch that. You ain't opening my saddlebag.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Why not, California? You've nothing to hide.

[California Carlson]

Maybe I'm just stubborn, but my saddle bags is private.

[Billy Stillwell]

All right.

[California Carlson]

I'm taking you both to the ranch. You'll open those bags there or you won't be stubborn. You'll be dead. All that.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You're acting like you think we're outlaws.

[California Carlson]

There were 10 cows rustled from the east pasture of our ranch by someone. And for my money, you two are tagged.

[Billy Stillwell]

As.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Now, back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story, the Santa Claus. Rustlers. On their way home, Hoppy and California are stopped near Phoenix, Arizona. First by a young boy, Billy Stillwell, who's running away. Then a bitter young rider who calls himself Johnny no Name and accuses Hoppy and California of being rustlers. At gunpoint, he takes them to the Stillwell ranch along with young Billy.

[Billy Stillwell]

Darn you, Johnny. You didn't have to make me come home too.

[California Carlson]

Shut up. Go inside and call your folks.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Billy oh, Billy. Billy, you scared me to death.

[Billy Stillwell]

Oh, now, Ma, don't take on so. Oh, Billy, I ain't hurted none. I just wanted to make some money so you could have a tree for Christmas.

[California Carlson]

All right, kid. All right. Get your pop.

[Billy Stillwell]

Well, what is it, Johnny?

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Who are these men?

[California Carlson]

Call themselves Cassidy and Carlson, but I'm tabbing them as a pair of rustlers. We lost 10 cows this morning.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

No. Oh, no. Billy, do like Johnny said.

[Billy Stillwell]

Sure, Ma.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mr. Spillwell, I can prove who and what we are.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Time for that when my husband Amos gets here, you may as well get down.

[California Carlson]

Johnny, can I give you a hand? Power. I don't need help to get off my horse.

[Billy Stillwell]

Get away from me.

[California Carlson]

I'll blow your head off. Got your gun, Johnny? Now, you young polkadot California.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Give it back to him.

[California Carlson]

What? But, Hoppy. You heard him. He'll blow my head off.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Give it back.

[California Carlson]

Sure, sure. But it's gonna make me feel like a midget if he shoots me with it. Here, you drop this. Yeah. Thanks. You're welcome, I'm sure. More so if you'll pint it in some other direction than my wishbone. I. I'm the nervous kind, Mr. Spillwell. Give me the word, I'll see you.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Have reason to be. Here's your papers, Mr. Cassidy. Looks like Johnny got ahead of himself. No harm done, Mr. Stillwell. And thanks for letting California shoe my horse while we've talked. I think an apology would be an order. From you, Johnny?

[California Carlson]

I don't make apologies to anyone.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, then I'll apologize for him. He's got a bad streak. Guess he feels the world's against him on account of that bum leg tries to hate everybody. It's a lot of hate. A man can get sick doing that. Yeah, Well, I suppose I can't complain, though. John is the only rider I found who'll work for delayed wages. Maybe he has a reason. This rustling hits you hard. Hard enough. Not only me, but my partners. Partners?

[California Carlson]

Yeah.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I guess I'd better explain. It's an unusual setup. When I bought this ranch a few years ago, I only had enough left over to buy 50 head of stock. So Ma and Betty, my daughter, they agreed to sacrifice something to help me get a herd. You got a fine family. I sure have. Ma sold her heirlooms and Betty gave up going east to school. You see, I'd set aside a little money regular for her to do that, but when the pinch came, Betty tossed it into the pot without even asking me. I see. And we like to consider the Herd as belonging to each of us in equal shares. Makes Ma and Betty feel like they have a part in things. And maybe Billy might become a partner when he grows up. Well, if there's anything left I'd like to get my hands on. The restless who'd steal from a family like yours just before Christmas? Yeah, I guess our holidays ain't gonna be too bright. No trees, no presents. Nothing but a little good wishing. Market's too low to sell now. Sure, that's it. Cows are bringing a bear $10 a head. If we can just hold out till spring while, we can get double that. If it were just me, I'd sell a few, but I got to think of the others. No, I reckon this Christmas will just be a poor.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy journey. Doll, if we keep fooling around trying to track down these rustlers, we're gonna miss Christmas at home.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You can go ahead if you want to. California. Me, I've got a mad arm.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, yeah, I know. Stealing from nice folks like them Stillwells, it's downright wrong. What polecat would be mean enough to Hoppy? I know a polecat who'd be.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

So do I. Let's not go jumping at any conclusions yet. Uh. Oh.

[California Carlson]

What's the matter?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Look. The tracks of the Russell cattle lead right into those other tracks. We've lost them.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Hello there. What do you think you're doing?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What? Oh. Well, I guess you must be Betty Stillwell.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

So you're a good guesser. Answer me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, give us a chance. We're trailing some cattle that were wrestled from you.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Anybody ask you to?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, as a matter of fact, yes. Your father? My name's Cassidy. This is California Carlson.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Oh, you must think I'm pretty awful jumping on you like that. Reckon I'm edgy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You knew about the cattle.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Oh, Johnny rode over to tell me about them this morning. I was banding some calves on the north range.

[California Carlson]

You was what? But you were a girl.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Oh, I'll bet you I can beat you at calf roping. Drizzle, push.

[California Carlson]

Drizzle, push, drizzle, push. Why, darn it all, I shaved only last week. And there ain't no gal who can beat me calf roping. The dear gal does that. I'll shave clear down to the skin. Hoppy, do I have to?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That was the bargain. Grizzle puss. And she beat you by 10 seconds.

[California Carlson]

I know. But Hoppy, how did I know she was a rodeo champion?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shave.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, but I'll feel naked.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Do I tell them back at the bar? 20th that a girl beat you at. See you at dinner.

[Billy Stillwell]

Ouch.

[California Carlson]

Ain't no reason for a man to have to do this nohow. It's plum brutal. Doggone me, if I cut myself once more, my face is gonna fall apart.

[Billy Stillwell]

Why don't you try spot on them whispers with Applejack? Heard about your match with Betty. You catch them rustlers? She beat you by 10 seconds, huh? Look out, you're cutting yourself.

[California Carlson]

Ouch. Thanks for telling me. Yeah, Betty beat me by 10 seconds. No, we didn't catch no wrestlers. And why don't you go kiss a rattlesnake?

[Billy Stillwell]

Say, you're a gabby one, ain't you? Pass the.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

So.

[Billy Stillwell]

Ma, I'm sorry about making you worry. Today has the fritters. I just wanted to get some presents in a tree. How about you, Johnny? You getting presents?

[California Carlson]

Presents, presents. That's all any of you think about. Look, do me a big favor. Skip me on this malarkey. I'm past believing in Santa Claus.

[Billy Stillwell]

Well, gee, if we had a tree and presents and a party like we usually do, you'd see Johnny and only Santa Claus. Side, I'm gonna give you a present.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah? Yeah.

[Billy Stillwell]

What?

[California Carlson]

What for?

[Billy Stillwell]

Because I like you, I guess. Don't you like me?

[California Carlson]

Why, yeah. All this dribble makes me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, gee, Mrs. Stillwell, maybe there's something we can do. After all, a tree isn't much.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Oh, Jake Hammer freights him in from the mountains at $10 a piece of. We don't have 10 cents and we don't hold with borrowing or charity. Thanks just the same, Mr. Cass.

[Billy Stillwell]

I wish we had the cows back there were, Russell. They'd pay for a tree and plenty of presents.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mr. Stillwell, about that rustling. Do you suspect any of your neighbors? Well, no. They're nice folks, most of them, but not all. I have an idea whoever's behind this rustling will strike again if we don't stop him. That makes it tough. We've only got a small herd, but it's scattered all over a lot of range. As you can tell, it takes plenty of this scrubby land to feed one cow. And with only Ma and me and Betty and Johnny, well, we just can't protect them. You mean Mrs. Stilwell rides herd?

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Sure I do. In betwixt getting food ready, that is. We make out all right. At least we didn't till them cow thieves began.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And that's why we appreciate your help, Mr. Cassidy. But of course, you have your own business to attend to, so I guess you'll be. We'll stick for a while. And forget the wages. If we can make your holidays better by recovering your cattle, that'll be pay enough.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

You have more to recover than you think.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, bitty girl. Where have you been? Supper's nearly cold.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

I took a turn to go for Basin Pa. That bunch of cows there was left alone too long. The rustlers have hit us again.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story.

[Toyota Announcer]

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[California Carlson]

Inventory may vary.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Toyota Thon ends January 5th. See your participating dealer for details. Toyota.

[California Carlson]

Let's go places.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Limu Emu and Doug.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty.

[Billy Stillwell]

Liberty Savings.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Very unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

The Santa Claus wrestlers. Trying to track down the rustlers preying on the Stillwell family. Poppy and California lost the trail of the Russell herd. But that same evening, Betty Stillwell came in with the news that the rustlers had struck again. The family, despondent at the prospect of a Christmas without a tree or present, react in grim determination.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Billy, put down that rifle.

[Billy Stillwell]

Oh, but Pop, I'm going with you.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

You're going to stay here and take.

[Billy Stillwell]

Care of the rent.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yes, Betty ought to stay here too. Now, there's likely to be a passel of shooting if we catch up with them wrestlers.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

I stood beside you to fight Injuns, Amos Stillwell. And I reckon the same applies to low down cow people.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Where's Johnny? No name. He claimed to be good with a gun.

[Billy Stillwell]

I saw him taking off for town. He said he was gonna pickle Santa Claus.

[California Carlson]

If that ain't like the darn Varman's got plenty of meanness set when we need a little.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Never mind, California. Let's go. Mr. Stilwell. Yeah, Poppy.

[California Carlson]

This trailing by moonlight just don't get it. We've lost the tracks eight times already. Oh, let's go back.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I know. I'm worried about having the women folk with her too. When we hit those rocks ahead of us. We're not only going to lose the trail for good, we're going to be in danger of an ambush. Cassidy, you thinking what I'm thinking? I'm afraid so.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

What are you afraid of?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, take cover behind those rocks. You and Betty sneak back as soon as that cloud crosses the moon. Now this time I'm ordering Mal. Please go back for me, honey.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Betty, you got any spare shells? Sure, Ma. Here. I wish Johnny was here. He'd save us.

[California Carlson]

I ain't so sure that he ain't here still.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, you notice where those shots went and I was too busy ducking.

[California Carlson]

Why?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Either that rifleman is the world's worst shot or we're only being warned not to go on. He missed us by 50 yards. Yeah, well, he'll wish he'd hit us before I get through with him. If Ma wasn't with us, we could. I reckon they've got us outnumbered, eh, Cassidy? We'd best go back.

[California Carlson]

Go back? Why, Huffy, we can. Hey, you poked me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, you're right. We have to go back. Oh, you and Betty go on inside. Cassidy, you're not this morning, are you? What are you planning? Ah, that rifleman is long gone by now. We're just taking a little jaunt into town. Oh, I think I heavy was biting you. Only I hope you're wrong somehow. Perhaps I am. The only way is to find out for sure. Adios.

[California Carlson]

Copy. Now will you kindly tell me what fur we let that low down ambusher get away without a fight?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Didn't you see the look in Mrs. Stilwell's eyes? If we hadn't gotten her away fast, she'd have charged that rifleman single handed.

[California Carlson]

Joe Gourmet. I bet you're right. Say, I'll bet she made some Injun fighters.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I have a feeling we'll find our bushwhacker in town anyway. We'll make a stop at the liver stable first. Then Johnny no Name is going to do a little talking.

[California Carlson]

Copy. Now we know that Johnny no Name was riding hard and late and his gun's been shot recently.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It looks plenty bad for him, but we'll see. Here's the hotel man at the Liberty stable. Said he was in room two.

[California Carlson]

Shouldn't we get the sheriff? Copy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Not yet. I want some answers first. Yeah, here it is.

[California Carlson]

Yeah.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What?

[Billy Stillwell]

Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

Now leave me alone.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Back up, Johnny. Time to break down and tell me all your little secrets.

[Billy Stillwell]

You can't threaten me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Want to bet? Well, we've been doing some shopping, huh, Hoppity?

[California Carlson]

He's bought New boots. And look it, a rifle and a gold watch. He sure didn't wait long to spend the money.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let me see those boots.

[California Carlson]

Get away from them. They're mine. I paid for them.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Nice leather. You've been spending a lot of money for a rider who's working for delayed wages.

[California Carlson]

What business is it of yours what I spend?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

None. But those slugs you threw around this evening are you?

[California Carlson]

Can't prove a thing.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Can't I? I think this little visit has told me nearly all I want to know. Come on, California. See you back at the ranch, Johnny.

[California Carlson]

You keep quiet about this, Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What's the matter, California harpy?

[California Carlson]

Sometimes you make me smatter. Could bite through a century. We go in there to brace that Henry Coyote for being a low down bushwhacker.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, he's the one who took those shots at us all right.

[California Carlson]

Then you say as nice as you please. See you back at the. He is. Oh, now, Harpy, will you make up your mind? Gonna go back there.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, no you won't. California. I think I know what's going on and who's behind it. But I don't have any real proof. So we're gonna wait and let it come to us.

[California Carlson]

But Johnny knows we're onto him now, huh? I suppose you think there's gonna be another rustle.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Exactly.

[California Carlson]

Another rustling. And so what do we do? We sit here stringing popcorn and eating it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Besides, we tracked the rustler, didn't we?

[California Carlson]

That's what's driving me loco. Sure, we tracked him right back to the ranch. Here it is. As if he was smart about it. In fact, he's about the stupidest rustler I ever saw.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Maybe finish that string.

[California Carlson]

What are we waiting for? We can hang Johnny today.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I guess maybe we could at that.

[California Carlson]

Well then what in counteration are we doing here?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Stringing popcorn. Ready to start another string?

[California Carlson]

I. I'm darn near ready to start another civil war.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Stick to the popcorn. These strings have to be ready in time for the party tonight. Yeah, yeah.

[California Carlson]

And speaking about the party that mesquite bush Mrs. Stillwell fixed up sure don't look like no Christmas tree. Couldn't we sneak off and get a pine tree from Jake Hammer?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I talked to him yesterday while we were in town buying our gifts. He doesn't have any good ones left.

[California Carlson]

Gosh, no presents. Satin ours. No Christmas tree. Nothing but rustling and more rustling. Well, I know one way I can brighten up the Stillwell's Christmas party.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'll sing for you. What?

[California Carlson]

Sing for him. You Know Christmas songs and all kinds.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, you ruin their party with that noise you call singing. And I'll see that you wash every dish afterwards by yourself. Now what do you think of that? Pass the popcorn.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Amos. It's dark. Instead of just sitting on the porch, don't you think you ought to take a walk before the party?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Just the thing, Ma.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

I guess I better go tell Johnny to hurry up.

[Billy Stillwell]

Yeah, maybe I'd better take a check on the horses.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Have some more popcorn, Mr. Carlson?

[California Carlson]

Well, yeah, yeah, thanks. Don't mind. Nothing to do.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, you're gonna turn into a popcorn bull if you don't stop now.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

It's Christmas time. Let him eat all he wants. Well, I think I'll go looking on the hen.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, well, California and I are going to slick up a bit, aren't we?

[California Carlson]

You go ahead, Hoppy. I already. Oh, why yeah, sure, sure, Mrs. Stilwell.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Take a handful of popcorn with you now.

[California Carlson]

If you insist. That's a good idea. Let's go, Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Huh? After all the popcorn you ate the faster than. How can you eat more?

[California Carlson]

Of course I like it. Say, ain't this sleep everybody getting out of the house at once. Now we can put our gifts under the tree and surprise them.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

This party may be a surprise in lots of ways. We're setting a trap in the Stillwell house.

[California Carlson]

What? A trap?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, we'll sneak back into the house as soon as we can. If I'm right, we'll catch those rustlers red handed tonight.

[California Carlson]

Well, I'm ready for em.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Of course.

[California Carlson]

It's dark in the parlor here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Keep that lamp with it light when I say to.

[California Carlson]

Sure. Say, Hockey, Can I even sing one little song at the party?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No.

[California Carlson]

Choir.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Someone's coming in.

[California Carlson]

Someone else is coming in the other way. Wait California, a little more.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Don't hold me up now.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, we caught our rustlers.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Now back to Hop along Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

Great green eyed bingo. Poppy. It's a forest.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Free wrestling green. Three trees plus the one Billy brought.

[Billy Stillwell]

Jake Hammer's gonna let me work out the price of this one. I didn't ruffle no. Oh my gosh. In the morning. You mean it?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's right, Billy. Your folks and your sister are the Santa Claus rustlers. Each one took from his own share of the herd.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Well, I'd have told about it after the surprise.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sure, so would your partners. Betty. Well, I didn't want more than you to suffer the penalty of the low cattle market. You all thought alike. Mr. Stillwell, the fact that each rustling was the same size gave me A hunch. And Jake Hammer confirmed it when he told me how each of you bought a tree. Then I checked the stores for people with no money. You spent plenty.

[California Carlson]

But Hobby. What about that Johnny?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No name. His shooting was only to warn us back. He was afraid we'd discover what he knew. That Betty took that Gopher Basin hers.

[California Carlson]

But those things he bought in town.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They look like gifts to me. Ask him. I heard.

[California Carlson]

Thanks for backing me, Mr. Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come in, Johnny. But better leave the tree. It's kind of crowded. I knew you had a change of heart when I saw those boots you bought. They were way too small for you.

[Billy Stillwell]

They're for me. I'll bet they're for me.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Ain't they, Johnny?

[California Carlson]

Yeah, kid.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They're for you.

[California Carlson]

But before I give any presents, you all should know I'm Johnny Bentley, son of an outlaw.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Was it outlaw money you spent on those presents? Oh, no, sir.

[California Carlson]

It was honest. Every penny of it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, then get Billy his boots before he busts the valve. And if you got any more money, maybe we'll talk about letting you into our partnership. This ranch is kind of short on cows right now.

[California Carlson]

Gosh, Hoppy, this is gonna be some swell Christmas party. I. Oh, I sure wish you'd let me sing for everybody.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, I warned you.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Why, that sounds wonderful. Go ahead, Mr. Carl. Go ahead.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Come on now.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. They want me. They.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, all right. Hand me the popcorn bowl and go ahead.

[California Carlson]

Here we go. Me, me, me, me, me, me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, what's the matter?

[California Carlson]

That popcorn. My voice is ruined.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

There's only one thing left to say. Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas, everybody.

[Mrs. Stillwell]

Everybody.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Merry Christmas.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Well, that sure was an extra special Christmas story about real nice people with a lot of real Christmas spirit. And just as Hoppy said, there's only one thing left to say. Merry Christmas, everybody. Merry Christmas.

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

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