Mark Trail 50-02-03 (003) Satan and the Devil's Herd

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Mark Trail 50-02-03 (003) Satan and the Devil's Herd"

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Episode: Mark Trail 50-02-03 (003) Satan and the Devil's Herd
• Release Date: July 2, 2025
• Description: Delving into the Golden Age of Radio, this episode of "Mark Trail" transports listeners to a time before television, where families gathered around the radio to engage with thrilling adventures and beloved characters.

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Plot Overview

"Satan and the Devil's Herd" follows the intrepid Mark Trail, a dedicated forest guardian, as he embarks on a perilous mission to capture a legendary wild horse named Satan. This episode blends suspense, action, and moral dilemmas, showcasing Mark's unwavering commitment to protecting nature and his community.

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Characters

• Mark Trail: The protagonist, a forest guard and protector of wildlife.
• Cherry Davis: Mark's companion, concerned about her father's fish trap invention.
• Mr. Harmon: A ranch owner assisting Mark in his quest.
• Howard Crosley: Antagonist seeking to exploit Satan for personal gain.
• Jerry Davis: Cherry's father, inventor of an innovative fish trap.
• Frenchy: The ranch cook who inadvertently aids Mark.

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Detailed Summary

Setting the Scene

The episode commences with a vivid narration painting the rugged terrains of northern Wyoming, setting the stage for the impending adventure. Listeners are introduced to Mark Trail as the lone guardian amidst vast wilderness, emphasizing his role in battling both natural and human adversaries.

[00:37] Narrator: "Battling the raging elements, fighting the savage wilderness, striking at the enemies of man and nature. One man's name resounds from snow-capped mountains down across the sun-baked plains."

The Devil's Herd Emerges

Mark identifies the approaching threat—a group known as the Devil's Herd led by Satan, a formidable wild horse. The tension escalates as Mark and his companions confront the herd, leading to a dramatic encounter where Hank, one of Mark's teammates, falls victim to Satan's fury.

[01:28] Mark Trail: "It's them alright, Mr. Harmon. That's the devil's herd. And they're coming straight this way."

[02:10] Mark Trail: "Chalk up another victim for Satan and the devil's herd."

Personal Stakes and Urgency

The narrative shifts to Mark's personal life, revealing his concern for his father, Jerry Davis, whose innovative fish trap is at risk due to financial constraints imposed by Howard Crosley. Cherry Davis expresses desperation, highlighting the emotional weight driving Mark's mission.

[04:29] Mark Trail: "Well, if there is, I can't see it. I've been going over the accounts upside down, inside out."

[04:56] Mark Trail: "From all these letters, Pops to Mr. Cross asking for an extension."

The Quest for a Miracle

Faced with the looming threat of losing his father's invention, Mark seeks a miraculous solution. A mysterious call suggests an unconventional opportunity—a chance to capture Satan, the wild horse, which could provide the necessary funds.

[05:22] Mark Trail: "Okay. Hello? Yes, speaking."

[06:00] Mark Trail: "We've got a chance to save your dad's invention."

Introduction of Howard Crosley

Upon arriving in Silver Springs, Mark and Cherry encounter Howard Crosley, whose intentions are dubious. Crosley warns Mark against pursuing Satan, revealing that previous attempts have led to tragedy.

[10:16] Narrator: "I. I don't know how a man says thanks for his life, but it hadn't been for you."

[10:25] Mark Trail: "Because your name is Crossley."

The Plane Crash and Investigation

During their mission, Mark and Cherry experience a harrowing plane crash. Struggling to regain control, they uncover evidence suggesting sabotage—Crosley's involvement becomes increasingly apparent.

[19:33] Narrator: "Look at that, Harmon. The rudder cable's broken."

[20:20] Cherry Davis: "Looks to me, Ms. Cherry, like somebody is interested in stopping you and Trail."

Race Against Time

With only two days to capture Satan before the cattlemen's order to eliminate the horse takes effect, Mark devises a strategic plan involving natural traps at Indian Gap. The suspense heightens as they confront both environmental challenges and Crosley's machinations.

[12:29] Mark Trail: "Well, when is this order going to effect? Right now."

Final Confrontation and Resolution

In a climactic showdown, Mark successfully captures Satan despite Crosley's interference. Through quick thinking and bravery, he ensures the horse's safety and secures the means to save his father's invention. The episode concludes with hints of future challenges, setting the stage for continued adventures.

[28:48] Cherry Davis: "But Mark caught it."

[29:03] Narrator: "And I'm giving it to Trail as a present. He deserves it."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mark Trail on Identifying the Herd:

  • "It's them alright, Mr. Harmon. That's the devil's herd. And they're coming straight this way." [01:28]

• Mark Trail on Sacrifice:

  • "Chalk up another victim for Satan and the devil's herd." [02:10]

• Cherry Davis's Desperation:

  • "It's as though he's, well, just lost the will to live. Isn't there any hope at all, Mark?" [04:22]

• Mark Trail's Determination:

  • "We're going to crash." [06:00]

• Howard Crosley's Warning:

  • "He's a killer, Mr. Traill. Six men have died trying to capture him. You might be." [10:27]

• Mark Trail's Strategy:

  • "Well, my idea is to trap the horse, Cherry, run him into a place he just can't get out of, and then nail him." [13:14]

• Climactic Capture:

  • "Satan, you're not going to shake me." [24:15]

• Howard Crosley's Deception Unveiled:

  • "This rope is one of the stolen ones. So according to your way of thinking, Mr. Crosley, that horse belongs to me." [28:55]

• Mark Trail's Triumph:

  • "You wanted a trap, and you have one. As a matter of fact, you walked right into it." [30:15]

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Themes and Insights

1. Conservation vs. Exploitation: The episode underscores the tension between preserving wildlife and exploiting it for personal gain. Mark Trail embodies conservationist values, striving to protect nature against those who seek profit at its expense.

2. Courage and Resilience: Mark's unwavering bravery in the face of danger highlights the importance of resilience. His willingness to risk his life for a greater cause serves as an inspiring testament to heroism.

3. Moral Dilemmas and Integrity: The narrative explores ethical challenges, particularly through Howard Crosley's deceitful actions. Mark's steadfast integrity contrasts sharply with Crosley's manipulative tendencies, emphasizing the value of honesty and moral fortitude.

4. Community and Support: Cherry Davis's support for Mark and her father's invention illustrates the strength of communal bonds. Their collective effort underscores the significance of unity in overcoming adversities.

5. Technology and Sabotage: The deliberate sabotage of the plane's rudder symbolizes the lengths to which antagonists will go to impede progress and achieve their objectives. It serves as a metaphor for the obstacles that innovators and protectors often face.

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Conclusion

"Satan and the Devil's Herd" masterfully weaves a tale of adventure, suspense, and moral struggles set against the rugged backdrop of Wyoming's wilderness. Through Mark Trail's courageous endeavors, the episode celebrates the timeless battle between conservation and exploitation, underscored by themes of integrity, community, and resilience. Notable for its engaging narrative and memorable dialogues, this episode stands as a quintessential example of the Golden Age of Radio storytelling.

For listeners unfamiliar with "Mark Trail," this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the character's heroic journey, making it an enticing entry point into the beloved series.

Transcript

[Expedia]

Packages by Expedia. You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights, hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia. Made to travel.

[Mark Trail]

Kellogg's Pep.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Kellogg's Pep. The Build Up Wheat cereal with the prize in every package invites you to share another thrilling adventure with Mark Pale.

[Narrator]

Battling the raging elements, fighting the savage wilderness, striking at the enemies of man and nature. One man's name resounds from snow capped mountains down across the sun baked plains.

[Mark Trail]

Mark Trail.

[Narrator]

Guardian of the forest, protector of wildlife, champion of man and nature on the desert wasteland of northern Wyoming. Three men on horseback wait tensely behind a clump of trees. Suddenly they hear the drumming thunder of rapidly approaching hoofbeats and shielding their eyes from the sun, stare at a rising cloud of dust.

[Mark Trail]

It's them all right, Mr. Harmon. That's the devil's herd. And they're coming straight this way. You sighting with them? Yep, right in front where he always is. And look at him run. He's almost flying. Time for me to get moving. Maybe we better ride with you, Luke. No, Mr. Harmon, you and Hank stay here. This is my job. Yeah, but you know what's happened to.

[Narrator]

All those other men.

[Mark Trail]

Eat that cracking, Luke. Satan's coming fast. Right? See you later. Come on, come on. Be careful, Luke. Think he can do it, Mr. Harmon?

[Narrator]

I don't know, Hank.

[Mark Trail]

Keep your fingers crossed, Satan. Don't see him yet. Luke's almost up to him. Yep, he made it. He's cutting him off. Watch him, Hank. Luke is set to rope him. Hey, watch out, Luke. Great Scott. That devil of a horse is charging him. He's down, Mr. Harmon. Luke's been thrown. Ah, Satan's trampling him.

Oh, no.

Come on, come on. We gotta help you. Oh, too late, Hank. No man could live under those hooves. Chalk up another victim for Satan and the devil's herd.

[Narrator]

Looks like Satan and the Devil's Herd will provide plenty of action and thrills today.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Fast action and quick thrills. When that sort of adventure lies ahead of you, it's best to be in shape for it. In shape to get the fun out of it. Yes, we all want to feel fit for fun, don't we? So make Kellogg's Pep the main part of your breakfast every single day. Kellogg's Pep, the Build Up Wheat cereal. Wheat in its most delicious form. Toasted flakes of wheat. Ready to eat. Fun to eat. Wonderful. With milk and sugar. Kellogg's Pep helps to make you feel fit for fun because it packs a powerhouse of food elements. You need to build up strength, build up energy, build up strong bones and steady nerves. And remember this, every package of Kellogg's Pep also packs a prize. A dandy prize I'll tell you about later in the program. You see, Pep means more than Pep. The Build Up Wheat cereal. Pep also means prize in every package. So if you want to have your fun and eat it too, ask your mother when she goes shopping. Bring me a package of Kellogg's pe.

[Narrator]

It's mid afternoon and Lost Forest is alive with the sound and activity of the many birds and animals that roam freely over its protected acres. But in the ranch house itself, all is still. An atmosphere of deep gloom fills the air. At the desk, Mark trail checks over a sheet of paper for the 10th time, then slumps back in his chair and shakes his head despairingly. Hearing the bedroom door close behind him, he turns angry.

[Mark Trail]

How is he, Jerry? Feeling any better?

[Cherry Davis]

No, just about the same, Mark. He just fell asleep.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, good. He needs the rest. Poor dad.

[Cherry Davis]

It's as though he's, well, just lost the will to live. Isn't there any hope at all, Mark?

[Mark Trail]

Well, if there is, I can't see it. I've been going over the accounts upside down, inside out. The answer's the same. Unless we can raise $2,500 by the end of the week, your dad loses the rights to the new fish trap he invented.

[Cherry Davis]

But it's worth 10 times that, Mark.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, sure it is. That's why Mr. Cross lented the money on it.

[Cherry Davis]

But won't Mr. Cross wait for the money? Dad only needs another two weeks to perfect the trap. Then he could pay off the loan easily.

[Mark Trail]

From all these Letters, pops to Mr. Cross asking for an extension. The answer's from Cross. I gather that Cross isn't really interested in the money. He wants the trap. If he gets the rights to the trap, he can make a fortune.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, that's so mean to steal a man's work like this. Isn't there any way we can stop him?

[Mark Trail]

Only by paying him, Sherry. That calls for a miracle. First class.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, dear. You answer it, Mark. I don't feel like talking to anyone right now.

[Mark Trail]

Okay. Hello? Yes, speaking.

[Narrator]

Who?

[Mark Trail]

Oh, yes, sir. Why, anytime, sir. What's up? I see a what? Say that again, please. I'll meet you in town in an hour. Right, sir. See you then. Cherry, do you suppose anyone was listening when I said we needed a miracle?

[Cherry Davis]

What are you talking about?

[Mark Trail]

Keep your fingers crossed, sweetheart. We've got a chance to save your dad's invention. Hello, Jerry, this is Mark.

[Cherry Davis]

Mark, what happened to you? I've been waiting for your call.

[Mark Trail]

No time for explanations. Now, listen, throw some of my clothes in a suitcase and bring it down to the station right away, will you?

[Cherry Davis]

To the station? Where are you going?

[Mark Trail]

Out where the dogies wander, sweetheart. To Wyoming.

[Cherry Davis]

What in the world for?

[Mark Trail]

To catch a horse. A horse made of gold.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, dear. Aren't we ever going to get there? Honestly, Mark, I could walk faster than this train is going.

[Mark Trail]

Well, Silver Springs is a long way off yet. Cherry and I. Well, I certainly didn't ask you to come along. Beats me the way you suddenly decide to pick up and leave laws for us.

[Cherry Davis]

Well, just call it an impulse.

[Mark Trail]

Fine time to have impulses. Leaving your dad all alone so he'll.

[Cherry Davis]

Be well taken care of. Mark, Scotty is there, and Mrs. Tompkins promised to come in every day to cook the meal. Besides, dad perked up almost right away when I told him we'd get the money to pay Mr. Cross.

[Mark Trail]

Hey, you didn't tell him that, did you?

[Cherry Davis]

Well, of course. All you have to do is catch a horse, and that shouldn't be hard.

[Mark Trail]

Well, this horse seems to be something special. He isn't named Satan for nothing.

[Cherry Davis]

Satan?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, and he's the leader of a pack of wild horses, about 30 of them, and they're known as the Devil's Herd.

[Cherry Davis]

The Devil's Herd? Oh, now, Mark, that's childish.

[Mark Trail]

Childish, huh? Mr. Benson should hear you say that.

[Cherry Davis]

Benson?

[Mark Trail]

The government conservation agent who called me packages?

[Expedia]

By Expedia, you were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights, hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia, Made to travel? Sasha hated sand, the way it stuck to things for weeks. So when Maddie shared a surf trip on Expedia Trip Planner, he hesitated. Then he added a hotel with a cliffside pool to the plan, and they both spent the week in the water. You were made to follow your whims. We were made to help find a place on the beach with a pool and a water and a soaking tub and, of course, a great shower. Expedia. Made to travel.

[Cherry Davis]

But mug, why should the government be interested in a wild horse and be willing to pay $3,000 to anyone who catches him?

[Mark Trail]

Well, you see, Jerry, wild horses are practically all descendants of the purebred original stock brought over here from Europe. Of course, the strain is pretty weak from years of interbreeding, but Satan is a complete throwback to the original herd.

[Cherry Davis]

That still doesn't add up to $3,000 to me.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, it does to the government, now, they want him on their livestock ranch to keep that strain alive and possibly breed a whole new herd. It's part of the overall conservation plan.

[Cherry Davis]

But, Mark, is it going to be so hard to catch Satan?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Jerry. Very hard. You see, Satan's fast and smart. Too smart.

[Howard Crosley]

I beg your pardon. I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. That name, Satan, It's a horse.

[Cherry Davis]

A wild horse.

[Howard Crosley]

Oh, I see. And you're going to capture him, Mr. Mr.

[Mark Trail]

Trail. Mark Trail.

[Howard Crosley]

Trail. I have heard that name. By any chance, are you connected with the preserve at Lost Forest?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, I am.

[Cherry Davis]

He certainly is. As a matter of fact, my father runs Lost Forest.

[Mark Trail]

Indeed.

[Howard Crosley]

And you're going after Satan, are you, Mr. Trail?

[Mark Trail]

Well, I'm going to try. You apparently know something about him.

[Howard Crosley]

I certainly do. Where will you be operating from, if you don't mind my asking?

[Mark Trail]

Why, not at all. We'll stop at the Harmon Ranch near Silver Springs.

[Cherry Davis]

Are you from Wyoming, Mr. Crosley?

[Howard Crosley]

Yes. Well, in a way, that is, I. I've spent some time there. Oh, and to answer your question, Mr. Traill, I. I certainly do know about Satan. And frankly, I would advise you to go right back to Lost Forest if you value your life.

[Cherry Davis]

What?

[Mark Trail]

What do you mean?

[Howard Crosley]

He's a killer, Mr. Traill. Six men have died trying to capture him. You might be.

[Mark Trail]

Well, here we are. Cherry. Silver Springs, Wyoming. Population 1735. Hey, Jerry, what's the matter with you? Tell me, why the long face, Mark?

[Cherry Davis]

All I can think of is that horse, Satan, and what Mr. Crosley told us about those six men.

[Mark Trail]

So what?

[Cherry Davis]

Please, Mark, let's go back to Lost Forest. We can get the money some other way.

[Mark Trail]

And then we mark trail. That's right. You, Mr. Harmon?

[Narrator]

Yeah, that's right. Sorry I kept you waiting.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, you didn't. Oh, this is Cherry Davis.

[Cherry Davis]

How do you do, Mr. Herman?

[Narrator]

Pleased to meet you, Ms. Davis.

[Mark Trail]

Trail, before we go out to the.

[Narrator]

Ranch, I think I'd better tell you, Mr. Harmon.

[Howard Crosley]

I'm Howard Crosley. You received my wire.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, yeah, yeah, sure.

[Cherry Davis]

Why, Mr. Crosley, I didn't know you were stopping here.

[Howard Crosley]

I hadn't planned to, Ms. Davis. It was a spur of the moment decision. But after our conversation about Satan, I made up my mind that I had to see if Trail could capture him. So I wired ahead to Mr. Harmon here. I hope it's all right with you, Harmon.

[Mark Trail]

Well, yeah. Yeah.

[Narrator]

You can spend a couple of days if you like, but I'm afraid you're gonna be disappointed. About Satan. Traill won't be able to get that devil.

[Mark Trail]

What do you mean, Mr. Harmon?

[Narrator]

I just got a wire from the Cattlemen's Association. They've ordered me to send all my cow folks out after Satan to kill him.

[Mark Trail]

What?

Oh, but why?

[Narrator]

Well, he's caused too much damage already. Outside of killing those men, he and that herd have busted fences and run off our stock. It's about time we put a stop to it.

[Mark Trail]

Well, when is this order going to effect? Right now. Listen, Mr. Harmon, does it make any difference if Satan is caught or if he's killed?

[Narrator]

No, of course not, so long as we get rid of him.

[Mark Trail]

Then give me a break, will you? Let me try to catch him. Give me two days. Well, just two days, Mr. Harmon. And if I don't get him by then, the horse is yours, and I'll help you hunt him down.

[Narrator]

Okay, if that's the way you want it. I won't tell my boys about the order. But you've only got two days, not a minute more.

[Mark Trail]

Mighty decent of you to fly us around in your plane, Mr. Harmon. I certainly appreciate it.

[Narrator]

I. Forget it.

[Cherry Davis]

But, Mark, I don't see how flying over the plains is going to help you catch the horse and. Well, Mark, exactly what are you looking for?

[Mark Trail]

Well, my idea is to trap the horse, Cherry, run him into a place he just can't get out of, and then nail him.

[Narrator]

That's fine, but it'll take you a week to build that kind of a trap. You need wire, fencing, posts.

[Mark Trail]

Well, not if there's a natural trap somewhere around here. Any kind of a canyon with a dead end?

[Narrator]

None that I can think of. Oh, except maybe Indian Gap.

[Mark Trail]

Indian Gap? Where's that?

[Narrator]

Yeah, we're coming up to it. Pass over it in a minute.

[Mark Trail]

I would know that.

[Narrator]

That wouldn't work either.

[Mark Trail]

Why not?

[Narrator]

Let's open at both ends, and there's.

[Mark Trail]

A sheer drop of 200ft at the.

[Narrator]

Far end where it opens into Snake Canyon.

[Mark Trail]

There it is, dead ahead.

Let's see. Yeah, looks like an ideal spot, too easy to run the herd inward from the plains.

[Cherry Davis]

But what about the other end, Mark? That drop into the canyon.

[Mark Trail]

Well, the gap isn't too wide at that point. Jerry, do you see? The ground is fairly thick with scrub oak. The only real opening is no more than 200 yards. Wouldn't take long to fence that. A few hours, the herd could get.

[Narrator]

Through that scrub oak easy enough.

[Mark Trail]

Well, they wouldn't try it if we tied rags to all the trees.

[Cherry Davis]

Rags?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Jerry, they'll flutter in the breeze and the horses would shy away. Okay, Mr. Harmon, let's head back to the ranch. This is the spot.

All right.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Hey.

[Narrator]

Hey.

[Mark Trail]

What the blazes?

[Cherry Davis]

Mr. Harmon, what is it?

[Mark Trail]

What's happened?

I don't know. She's out of control. The rudder's dead.

We're in a spin. Pull out, Harmon.

Pull out. I can't. The controls are shot. I tell you, we're gonna cr.

[Narrator]

With Harmon helpless at the controls, Mark and Cherry us spun crazily toward the earth below. In a moment, we will continue. So stand by. Suppose you were in this plane with mark, Cherry and Mr. Harmon. Believe me, you'd really have to call on all your strength, energy and nerve. So listen.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Help build up strength. Help build up energy. Helps build up strong bones and steady nerves with that famous build up cereal. Kellogg's Pep Whole wheat in its most delicious form. Toasted flakes. That Kellogg's Pep, not just one bowlful. Of course, Kellogg's Pep won't work wonders overnight, but Kellogg's Pep, day after day at breakfast time or anytime helps you feel fit for for fun. It's a powerhouse of food elements you need for strong bones and muscles, extra energy and steady nerves for mmm, Marvelous Molly Flavored Pep has more builder upper vitamins than any other ready to eat wheat cereal. And one of those vitamins is vitamin.

[Expedia]

D. The sun Sasha hated sand, the way it stuck to things for weeks. So when Maddie shared a surf trip on Expedia Trip Planner, he hesitated. Then he added a hotel with a cliffside pool to and they both spent the week in the water. You were made to follow your whims. We were made to help find a place on the beach with a pool and a waterfall and a soaking tub and of course, a great shower. Expedia made to travel.

[Mark Trail]

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[Kellogg's Pep]

Ballot 61879 Just one serving of Kellogg's Pep gives you a day's need of the Sunshine vitamin. And Mark, this Pep stands for prize in every package too. And I'll tell you about those swell prizes in a Little while I won't forget if you remember this. If you want to have your fun and eat it, too.

[Cherry Davis]

Pig Pip the fries package with the.

[Mark Trail]

Powerful powerhouse punch Pig Pip.

[Narrator]

With only two days time in which to hunt down and capture the killer horse, Satan, Mark and Cherry fly over the rangeland in Harmon's private plane, searching for a canyon where they could trap the wild herd. Locating one at Indian Gap, they head back for the ranch. And suddenly the plane falls into a sickening spin, cork screwing earthward out of control.

[Mark Trail]

I can't get her out of a trail. The rudder pedals won't answer.

[Cherry Davis]

We're going to crash.

[Mark Trail]

Forget the pedals, Harmon. Hit that throttle pour on the cold.

No, you do as I say, quick, man. All right, but now neutralize your stick. Keep your elevators and your aons level.

[Cherry Davis]

Right, Mark, we're getting so close.

[Mark Trail]

Close your eyes, Cherry.

[Narrator]

Don't look.

[Mark Trail]

We're easing our trail. We're breaking the spin holder. Steady, steady.

That's it.

Now ease back on the stick.

Slowly.

Doing my best. That's the way. Easy, easy now. We're almost level trail, but look how close we are.

[Cherry Davis]

We're almost touching the ground.

[Mark Trail]

It's level. Thank goodness.

Come on, now, fly it. Reach for the ground. I am. There. We're touching. Chop her down.

Close the throttle and keep the stick forward.

Right.

[Cherry Davis]

Mark, did we make it? Are we going to be all right?

[Mark Trail]

I think so, Cherry. We don't hook the gear in a pothole.

Hails down, we're on three points. Okay, hit those brakes.

[Cherry Davis]

Boy.

[Mark Trail]

Say we made it.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, Mark.

[Mark Trail]

Now. Easy, easy, Jerry. Don't go feminine on me now, Trail.

[Narrator]

I. I don't know how a man says thanks for his life, but it hadn't been for you.

[Mark Trail]

Forget it, Harmon. You know, my neck was in the sling, too. All right, come on. Let's find out what happened to the ship.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I'd like to know why that rudder went dead.

[Mark Trail]

Let me help you, Jerry.

[Cherry Davis]

Thanks, Mark.

[Narrator]

Now, let's see here.

[Mark Trail]

Hey, look at that, Harmon. The rudder cable's broken.

[Narrator]

Why in the world should I, uh.

[Mark Trail]

Oh. What's the matter?

[Narrator]

It wasn't an accident trail. Look at the end of this cable.

[Mark Trail]

Let's see why it was cut halfway through.

[Narrator]

Yeah, and routine use took care of the rest.

[Cherry Davis]

But why should anyone do a thing like that?

[Narrator]

Not me, Ms. Davis.

[Mark Trail]

Someone gunning for you, Harmon?

[Narrator]

As far as I know, I don't have an enemy in the world. Well, I won't worry about that now. We've got a lot of ground to cover before we even reach a place where I can phone for horses. We won't be back home till nightfall.

[Mark Trail]

Nightfall? But that's a whole day shot.

[Narrator]

I know. I'm just thinking maybe I'm not the target.

[Cherry Davis]

What do you mean, Mr. Harmon?

[Narrator]

Looks to me, Ms. Cherry, like somebody is interested in stopping you and trail.

[Cherry Davis]

Do you think we can make it in time, Mark?

[Mark Trail]

It'll be close. Jerry Crew is out at Indian Gap now putting in the fence.

[Cherry Davis]

Who'll drive the horses into the gap?

[Mark Trail]

Harmon will help us. He's made repairs and he'll ride hurt on them in his plane.

[Howard Crosley]

Well, well, Good evening, Trail, Ms. Davis.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, hello, Mr. Crosby.

[Mark Trail]

Good evening.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Yeah.

[Howard Crosley]

Not much time left to capture Satan.

[Mark Trail]

Just enough, I think. Good.

[Howard Crosley]

I hope you succeed. Believe me, I do.

[Mark Trail]

Thanks.

Trail.

Trail. Yes, Harmon.

[Narrator]

Listen, did you take the ropes out of the tack room?

[Mark Trail]

Ropes? Why, no.

[Narrator]

Great Scott. Now we are in trouble. The ropes are all gone. There's not a lariat in the whole ranch.

[Mark Trail]

What happened to them? I don't know.

[Cherry Davis]

Well, maybe the men who are building the fence.

[Mark Trail]

No, they didn't.

[Narrator]

As a matter of fact, they all left theirs here so they could carry more wire for the fence.

[Howard Crosley]

But surely it isn't as serious as all that, Harmon. Why a rope so necessary?

[Mark Trail]

I can't catch Satan with my bare hands, Mr. Crosley. I need a rope to tie him down.

[Howard Crosley]

Oh, oh, of course, of course.

[Mark Trail]

How long will it take to get new ropes, Harmon?

[Narrator]

Only about an hour or so. Time enough for me to hop over to the next ranch and borrow some. But it means you have that much less time to find the devil's hurt.

[Kellogg's Pep]

And round them up.

[Cherry Davis]

Four o' clock, Mark. Less than an hour of daylight left.

[Mark Trail]

I know, Cherry. Can you see anything through the gap?

Nope, not yet.

Even if Harmon is driving it through now, take time to nail Satan size. There's no telling what a wild horse like Satan will do when he's trapped. He may run right over the edge of the canyon here.

[Cherry Davis]

Not really, Mark.

[Mark Trail]

Why, sure. A horse as wild as he is will do anything to get free.

Mr. Player, Mr. Fair.

[Cherry Davis]

Why, it's Frenchy, the ranch cook.

[Mark Trail]

What's the matter, Frenchie? This. This telegram shared. I told you a little while ago.

[Narrator]

I think maybe it is important, so.

[Mark Trail]

I bring it to you quick.

Oh, thanks a lot, Frenchie. I appreciate that telegram.

[Cherry Davis]

Or maybe something's happened today.

[Mark Trail]

No, no, no, don't you worry, Jerry. It's not about Pop. I've been expecting this wire and it confirms what I'VE been thinking, Mark. What?

[Cherry Davis]

Listen.

[Mark Trail]

It's a plane.

[Cherry Davis]

It's Mr. Harmon. Oh, I wonder if.

[Mark Trail]

Look, Cherry. He's rocking the wings. That's the signal. The devil's Hurt is in the gap, coming this way. Keep your fingers crossed, Cherry. This is our chance.

Looks like Trail's luck is holding. There's a plane. That means the horses is going through the gap.

[Howard Crosley]

Yes, Hank, but we still have an ace in the hole. Is everything ready?

[Mark Trail]

Sure, just like you ordered.

But I don't like this job, Mr. Cross. When Mr. Harmon finds out.

[Howard Crosley]

What if he does? You'll have the horse. And he's worth $3,000. You can do a lot with that kind of money. Well, better get ready. Satan is coming through the gap. I can see him.

[Mark Trail]

Okay.

[Howard Crosley]

This is really very amusing, you know, Mark. Trail does all the work and we reap the rewards. Go on now, Hank. Do your job. Well.

[Cherry Davis]

Mark, they're.

[Mark Trail]

No, Satan.

[Cherry Davis]

He's heading for the trees.

[Mark Trail]

He'll shy off when he sees those rags, Sherry. Okay. Wish me luck, sweetheart.

I'm going after him.

[Cherry Davis]

Be careful, Mark.

[Mark Trail]

Don't you worry. Hey.

Hey, what's up, Mark?

[Cherry Davis]

Satan is heading for the fence.

[Mark Trail]

Well, that's nothing to get so excited. Hey, wait a minute.

There's a hole in the fence.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, no.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, and blazes. Hey, there's somebody on the other side. And he's got a rope. He's trying to get Satan himself. He'll steal him from you.

[Cherry Davis]

Mark, do something.

[Mark Trail]

I think I can make it through the hole the same time Satan does. Here goes nothing. Up, boy. Come on, get up. Hey, clear out, you. This horse belongs to me. He belongs to the guy that gets in first trail. You're too late, pal. Here he comes. And my rope is going around his neck. There, I got him. Hey, you can't do much for them laying on the ground, pal. Now it's my turn. No, keep away from him. He's done. Come on, boy. Faster. Just got me close enough so I can jump on his back. That's it. Closer. Closer now. All right, Satan. Do your worst. You're not going to shake me. Hey, hey, hey. Easy there. Easy. Slow down. Running won't do you any good. Hey, take turn, you fool. You're heading straight for the edge of the canyon. You'll go over. Sheer off. Sheer off.

[Narrator]

With Mark on his back, the powerful horse, blind with fury, drives straight forward to certain death. In a moment, we will continue, so keep listening.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Say, there's a surprise waiting for you. A surprise packed in every box of Kellogg's Pep, those marvelous Maldives flavored flakes of wheat. It's a gaily colored statuette of a football, baseball or basketball player. Maybe a cowboy or an Indian, or an animal of almost any description. And each statuette stands on its own pedestal so you can use them in toy villages. Move them around, let them ride your electric trains. Start a collection, get all 18 of them, trade them with your friends. You'll find a bright new statuette right inside your package of Kellogg's Pep. No box stops or money to send. No long days to wait for your prize. And maybe your prize will be a turbojet model plane with an aluminum jet type wing and every other part all ready for you to cut out, assemble and fly. So tell mother to pick the package with pep on the front. Pep for Kellogg's Pep, the build up wheat cereal. Pep for prize in every package. Yes, if you want to have your fun and eat it too.

[Mark Trail]

Package with a powerful powerhouse punch, pig Pep.

[Narrator]

Riding bareback on the killer horse, Mark Trail is unable to make the stallion turn before they plunge over the edge into the canyon. He hesitates, starts to loosen his grip on the horse's mane to drop off and save his own life, then suddenly grips hard with his knees and sitting upright, rips off his jacket and throws it over Satan's head.

[Mark Trail]

There, that doesn't do it. Nothing will.

Stop.

Yeah, that's better. Slow down to a walk, pal. That's it. Now you're showing some sense. Okay, Satan, your killer days are over. From now on, you run courtesy of the United States government.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, Mark, I'm so glad you're all right. When I saw Satan head for the edge of the canyon, I thought.

[Mark Trail]

Yes, I thought the same thing.

[Narrator]

And how about this here pack rat?

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, Mr. Harmon, how did you get here so fast?

[Narrator]

Landed on the mesa up there just in time to grab Hank.

[Mark Trail]

Good for you, Harmon. Well, let's have it, Hank. Why'd you try to steal my horse?

I ain't talking.

[Howard Crosley]

Well, well, Mr. Trail, that was brilliantly executed. My compliments. But just a minute. This. This rope around Satan's neck. You didn't throw it, did you, Trail?

[Mark Trail]

No, Hank here did.

[Howard Crosley]

Well, then, according to law, I believe the horse belongs to him, since he had possession of the horse before you did.

[Cherry Davis]

But Mark caught it.

[Howard Crosley]

I realize that. But this is Hank's rope, Ms. Davis.

[Narrator]

Oh, no, it isn't. It's mine.

[Howard Crosley]

It what?

[Narrator]

Yeah, it's one of the ropes that was stolen. So according to your way of thinking, Mr. Crosley, that horse Belongs to me.

[Howard Crosley]

Well, of course you.

[Cherry Davis]

You don't.

[Narrator]

And I'm giving it to Trail as a present. He deserves it.

[Mark Trail]

Well, thanks a lot, Harmon.

[Cherry Davis]

Oh, Mark, isn't it wonderful? Now Dad's work is saved.

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Jerry. Now, Mr. Cross, do you want the money in cash or will you take the horse in payment?

[Howard Crosley]

I beg your pardon. Are you talking to me?

[Mark Trail]

I certainly am.

[Howard Crosley]

You're. You're making a mistake. The name is Crossley.

[Mark Trail]

How about it, Hank? This is your chance to square things. Who is he?

I. I don't know.

[Narrator]

Maybe you know something about that damaged.

[Mark Trail]

Rudder cable on my plane.

[Narrator]

Hank.

[Mark Trail]

No, no, no, I don't. He did it.

[Howard Crosley]

Keep quiet, you fool.

[Mark Trail]

I ain't taking no rap for you. Sure, his name is Cross, but.

[Cherry Davis]

The same Mr. Cross who wanted my dad's fish trap.

[Mark Trail]

Yeah, and he came to me last night, offered me big money to cut the hole in the fence so Satan would get loose. You idiot. He stole them ropes from the tack room. I deny it. He's lying.

How about that telegram from the Cattlemen's Association? I suppose you'll deny sending that.

Of course.

Well, was that telegram from him? Sure. This wire I got a little while ago proves it. It's from the association in answer to the one I sent them. They never issued any orders to kill Satan.

[Cherry Davis]

But, Mark, how did you ever get.

[Mark Trail]

Why, it took a while, Stan.

[Narrator]

This means jail for you, Cross.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, no, no, no. You can't do this to me.

Yes, we can. You certainly got what you were looking for. You wanted a trap, and you have one. As a matter of fact, you walked right into it.

[Narrator]

Well, Mark, now that you've caught Satan, what are you planning on doing?

[Mark Trail]

Take it easy for a while, I guess. Take it mighty easy.

[Narrator]

That's what Mark thinks. He doesn't know that a letter awaits him when he returns to Lost Forest. A letter from his old friend, Chief Lightfoot, Chief of the Shoshone Indians. And when Mark reads that letter, he'll head out right away for Buffalo Canyon and danger. Tune in same time, same station on Monday and find out what happens to Mark Trail. Battling the raging elements, fighting the savage wilderness, striking at the enemies of man and nature. One man's name resounds from snow capped mountains down across the sun baked plains. Mark Trail.

[Kellogg's Pep]

Remember to tune in then next Monday when Mark Trail will again be brought to you by the Build Up Wheat cereal.

[Narrator]

Kellogg's Pep. All names of people and places used on this program are fictitious. Any similarity purely coincidental. This program came from New York Trail by Ed Dodd also appears in the comics of many of America's leading newspapers. Look for it daily and Sundays. Stay tuned now for Tarmix and his straight shooters. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.