Mark Trail 50-02-06 (004) Chief Lightfoot and the Buffalo

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio Episode: Mark Trail 50-02-06 (004) Chief Lightfoot and the Buffalo
Release Date: August 10, 2025

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Introduction

"Chief Lightfoot and the Buffalo" is a captivating episode from the "Mark Trail" series, brought to life by Harold's Old Time Radio. Set against the backdrop of the rugged Northwest wilderness, this episode weaves a tale of tradition, conflict, and the enduring spirit of a man determined to restore balance to nature.

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Main Plot Overview

The story revolves around Chief Lightfoot, the venerable leader of the Shoshone tribe, who seeks to dissolve his stake in Lightfoot Industries to pursue his vision of restoring the land and reintroducing buffalo to the region. His grandson, Robert Lightfoot, is entangled in the business dealings orchestrated by Dan Corbin, the cunning general manager whose interests lie in maintaining the oil and timber operations.

Chief Lightfoot's Decision

Chief Lightfoot confronts Dan Corbin with a heartfelt declaration:

Chief Lightfoot [02:13]: "Because the men who squeeze oil from ground and strip timber from hills have driven them off. Well, I, Lightfoot, chief of the Shoshone, shall bring them back."

Determined to preserve his heritage and the natural environment, Chief Lightfoot decides to sell his interests in the company, a move that threatens to destabilize the largest oil and timber combine in the Northwest.

The Expedition to Buffalo Canyon

Inviting his old friend Mark Trail and Mark's young companion, Scotty, Chief Lightfoot leads an expedition to a hidden canyon—a sanctuary where buffalo once roamed freely. Accompanied by his granddaughter, Nancy Lightfoot, Robert joins the group, embodying the tension between tradition and modern business pressures.

As they traverse the wilderness, the group stumbles upon fewer buffalo than expected, a result of industrial exploitation. The narrative intensifies when Nancy and Scotty become trapped in a cave, seemingly endangered by a mountain lion. This perilous situation serves as the catalyst for the unfolding drama.

Sabotage and Betrayal

Dan Corbin, revealed as the antagonist, sabotages Chief Lightfoot's plans by orchestrating a stampede of buffalo aimed at eliminating the chief. His betrayal culminates in a tragic encounter where Chief Lightfoot is fatally injured by the herd. Corbin's actions are driven by greed and a desire to maintain his control over Lightfoot Industries:

Dan Corbin [22:25]: "This is why you did not wish me to dispense of my wealth. Such a transaction would have revealed you for the fork-tongued liar."

Redemption and Legacy

In the aftermath of Chief Lightfoot's death, Robert Lightfoot undergoes a transformation. Witnessing the selfless efforts of Mark and Scotty to save Nancy and recognize Corbin's treachery, Robert chooses to honor his grandfather's legacy by supporting the restoration of the buffalo population and opposing Corbin's destructive ambitions.

Chief Lightfoot [26:35]: "I lived, my grandson, only to tell you that this man is evil. This Corbin."

Robert's commitment to his grandfather's vision signifies a hopeful turn towards reconciliation between modern enterprises and traditional values.

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Character Dynamics and Development

• Chief Lightfoot: Embodies wisdom, resilience, and a profound connection to nature. His determination to restore the buffalo symbolizes a broader fight against industrial encroachment.

  Chief Lightfoot [10:05]: "I have told Mark Trail of the way to the hidden canyon where buffalo yet graze. I want you to look on them once with your own eyes."

• Dan Corbin: Represents greed and manipulation. His actions drive the central conflict, making him the primary antagonist whose schemes undermine Chief Lightfoot's noble intentions.

• Robert Lightfoot: Initially swayed by Corbin, Robert's character arc evolves as he confronts the consequences of his choices, ultimately aligning with his grandfather's ideals.

  Robert Lightfoot [26:56]: "I shall."

• Mark Trail and Scotty: Serve as the heroes whose courage and loyalty are pivotal in thwarting Corbin's plans and supporting Chief Lightfoot's legacy.

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Themes and Insights

1. Conflict Between Tradition and Modernity: The episode highlights the tension between preserving cultural heritage and the relentless advance of industrialization. Chief Lightfoot's mission to restore the buffalo serves as a metaphor for maintaining ecological and cultural balance.

2. Betrayal and Redemption: Dan Corbin's betrayal showcases the destructive power of greed, while Robert Lightfoot's redemption illustrates the possibility of change and the importance of aligning with one's moral compass.

3. Nature vs. Industrial Exploitation: The narrative underscores the impact of industrial activities on wildlife and the environment, advocating for responsible stewardship of natural resources.

4. Legacy and Responsibility: The duty to honor and continue the legacy of forebears is a central theme, embodied by Robert's final decision to support his grandfather's vision.

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Notable Moments and Quotes

• Chief Lightfoot's Resolve:

  Chief Lightfoot [02:13]: "Because the men who squeeze oil from ground and strip timber from hills have driven them off. Well, I, Lightfoot, chief of the Shoshone, shall bring them back."

• Robert Lightfoot's Transformation:

  Robert Lightfoot [26:56]: "I shall."

• Dan Corbin's Antagonism:

  Dan Corbin [22:25]: "This is why you did not wish me to dispense of my wealth. Such a transaction would have revealed you for the fork-tongued liar."

• Mark and Scotty's Heroism:

  Scotty [20:58]: "Nature is my business. And I know that never, never under any provocation will a buffalo charge a mounted man."

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Conclusion

"Chief Lightfoot and the Buffalo" masterfully intertwines adventure, drama, and moral lessons, delivering a poignant message about the importance of preserving nature and honoring one's heritage. Through its rich characters and compelling storyline, the episode invites listeners to reflect on the delicate balance between progress and preservation.

For fans of the Golden Age of Radio and the "Mark Trail" series, this episode offers a memorable journey filled with suspense, emotional depth, and timeless themes.

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Note: The episode seamlessly integrates promotional segments for Kellogg's Pep cereal and Boy Scout Week, enhancing the nostalgic radio experience without detracting from the main narrative.

Transcript

[Mark Trail]

Mmm.

[Scotty]

Oh.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Whatcha eating?

[Scotty]

The new banana split cookie from AM pm All freshly baked with real butter with banana, chocolate and strawberry flavors.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Wow, that sounds amazing.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Can I have a bite?

[Chief Lightfoot]

I'm sorry, but no.

[Dan Corbin]

But you can't split the banana split.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Not even a little.

[Scotty]

Not even a crumb.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

What if.

[Scotty]

No, please.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Mine.

[Scotty]

When it's too legit to split. That's cravenience. Get a 3 pack for 99 cents with our app AMPM. Too much good stuff plus tax where applicable. Prices and participation may vary. Terms and conditions apply.

[Dan Corbin]

Kellogg's Pep.

[Narrator]

Kellogg's Pep, the Buildup Wheat cereal with the prize in every package invites you to share another thrilling adventure with Mark Fail.

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 tr. Guardian of the forest, protector of wildlife, champion of man and nature. It is shortly after dawn and the silence of the Shoshone Indian reservation in the northwest is broken by the sound of horses hooves. Lightfoot, chief of the Shoshones, rides out of the Indian village toward the east. Although he has seen the passing of 70 winters, he is erect in his saddle. Then suddenly, another set of hoofbeats shatters the morning stillness. It is Dan Corbin, slim naturally dressed general manager of Lightfoot Industries, jointly owned by the chief and his grandson, Robert.

[Dan Corbin]

What's the idea of sneaking out on me, Chief Lightfoot?

[Chief Lightfoot]

I sneak away from no man. Mr. Corbin, our business is done.

[Dan Corbin]

But your grandson's coming here today. Shall I tell him you want to sell out your interest in Lightwood Industries? Break up the biggest oil and timber combine in the Northwest?

[Chief Lightfoot]

Yes, this is true.

[Dan Corbin]

Then at least tell me why. So that I can report to him.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Very well. Many days travel from here. There is a canyon known to no eyes but mine. The waters are clear and cool, the grass thick and rich. And upon it I have seen buffalo feed buffalo.

[Dan Corbin]

There haven't been any around here for half a century.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Because the men who squeeze oil from ground and strip timber from hills have driven them off. Well, I, Lightfoot, chief of the Shoshone, shall bring them back.

[Dan Corbin]

You want me to tell this to your grandson?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Tell him this is why I would sell all that I possess. That I have not much time left. That before I die I must put the wealth back into the earth from where it came. Tell him this, Mr. Thorn.

[Dan Corbin]

You old. You're right. You haven't got much time left. In fact, you may not even come back from this ride.

[Narrator]

And so Chief Lightfoot rides away into an adventure that's chock full of thrills and excitement.

Thrills and excitement that'll be fun to hear and would be even more fun to share. That is, if you're in shape to share the excitement. If you feel fit to get the fun out of it. You know you want to feel fit for fun. 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 listen, every single package of Pep also packs a prize. A handsome prize that I'll tell you about before the show is over. And remember, 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 Pep.

[Dan Corbin]

That's Kellogg's Pep.

[Narrator]

Hours after Chief Lightfoot has left his reservation, two riders leisurely cross the plains, their blood warmed by the noonday sun. They are Mark Trail and his young friend, Scotty. They do not know that Lightfoot has left his village, for they are on their way to the Shoshone Indian Reservation at the express invitation of Lightfoot himself, who is Mark's old friend.

[Mark Trail]

You mean buffalo grazed here, Mark?

[Scotty]

Why, years ago, Scotty, they would have covered this plain for as far as your eye could see. Hey, what are you taking your rifle out of your saddle sling for?

[Mark Trail]

Just imagining, Mark. I can see them now.

[Scotty]

You've got a vivid imagination.

[Mark Trail]

It must have been.

[Scotty]

What is it, Scotty?

[Narrator]

There.

[Scotty]

Say, what are you shooting at?

[Mark Trail]

There in the grove of trees, I thought I saw movement. A deer.

[Scotty]

Lord, you know better than that, Scotty. Never shoot out a movement, only an object. Suppose there had been somebody. Mark, what was that voice from that grove?

[Mark Trail]

Mark, you don't think.

[Scotty]

I don't know, Scotty, but we better find out fast. Scotty, you see anyone?

[Mark Trail]

No, Mark. I hope.

[Scotty]

Come on, Scotty.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Whoa.

[Scotty]

Whoa, boy. Chief Lightfoot.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Mark.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Troy.

[Scotty]

Scotty, tie up the horses. Chief, what happened? Did that shot hit you?

[Chief Lightfoot]

No, Mark. I was struck down by my ears. No bullet.

[Scotty]

What happened?

[Chief Lightfoot]

My ankle had swollen. Broken, I fear.

[Scotty]

Well, let me see. Oh, I'm sorry, Chief. No, I don't think it's broken, only sprained.

[Chief Lightfoot]

And there's still strength in these old bones.

[Scotty]

Well, how did this happen, Chief?

[Chief Lightfoot]

I was riding when suddenly my pony reared and threw me.

[Scotty]

I see.

[Dan Corbin]

Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Mark?

[Scotty]

Try to find the chief's pony while I bind his ankle.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Okay.

[Scotty]

This will hurt, Chief.

[Chief Lightfoot]

No pain of the flesh could be as deep as the pain of my spirit.

[Scotty]

Well, that doesn't sound like your letter to me, Chief. You were pretty happy about the idea of restoring this land to a place where the Shoshone could live as they had in the past. I'm sorry.

[Chief Lightfoot]

That was before I had heard the tongue of Mr. Corbin.

[Scotty]

Mr. Corbin?

[Chief Lightfoot]

Yes, the man who manages my grandson's wealth. Mine as well. He has set my grandson against me, and there is evil feeling.

[Mark Trail]

Mark. Mark, can you come here? I found the chief pony.

[Scotty]

Just a minute, Scotty. Does that feel better now, Chief?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes.

[Scotty]

All right, then. I'll help Scotty with the horses, and we'll have you back the teepee and facing Mr. Corbin and your grandson in no time. What's the matter, Scotty? Can't you handle a horse yourself?

[Mark Trail]

It's not that, Mark. I called you over to look at something.

[Dan Corbin]

Oh, boy.

[Mark Trail]

Oh, now, easy, boy.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

See?

[Mark Trail]

Blood oozing from under the saddle blanket of the chief's horse.

[Scotty]

Loosen the cinch under his belly, Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

All right.

[Scotty]

Steady, boy. Steady. We're not going to hurt you. Okay, Mark, let's see what's happened to your back. Easy, boy. Easy, easy.

[Mark Trail]

Holy mackerel, Mark. His back's all cut up.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Look.

[Scotty]

Sharp stones embedded in the saddle. Gosh. It's an old frontier trick to make a horse buck, Scotty. The weight of the rider causes the stones to dig into the horse and he bucks.

[Mark Trail]

Then it was no accident the chief was thrown.

[Scotty]

No, Scotty, it wasn't. Someone wants Chief Lightfoot out of the way.

[Mark Trail]

Who?

[Scotty]

I'm afraid to answer that, Scotty. I only hope it isn't his own grandson.

[Dan Corbin]

I tell you, Mr. Lightfoot, if you let your grandfather split up Lightfoot Industries, you'll be ruined.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Oh, I wouldn't say it's that drastic, Corbin. I'd still be a rich man. But Mr. Hides, when I talk to him, I'm sure he'll see how foolish this entire idea is. Now, quiet. Here comes my daughter.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Papa. Papa, this is wonderful.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Mm. So you like the Indian reservation?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

It's just like the storybooks I've read in school. All that's missing is the buffalo. No wonder Grandpa wants to put them back. If. If I were living Here, I'd want them back too. Indians and buffalo kind of go together.

[Robert Lightfoot]

You hear that, Corbin? First time she's ever been on a reservation in her entire 13 years. And already she's acting like the Indians of long ago.

[Dan Corbin]

Well, might be that this affects a lot of people that way.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Papa, look. Some men riding into the village.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Oh, yes. Say one of them looks like the chief and he's been hurt. Come on, let's see what's the.

[Chief Lightfoot]

So son of my son. I look on your face again?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes, my grandfather. But please don't try to talk.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Your hurt is nothing. I suppose the man Corbin has told you what I wished to do.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes, he has. But we can talk of all that later.

[Chief Lightfoot]

We will talk of it now, Chief. Perhaps I should leave. No, Mark, I wish you to hear this too. After all, you are blood brother to our tribe.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Grandfather.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Wait. My grandson, hear me out. Before you talk against my wishes, I ask that you do one thing for me.

[Robert Lightfoot]

And what is that?

[Chief Lightfoot]

I have told Mark Traill of the way to the hidden canyon where overflow yet graze. I want you to look on them once with your own eyes. But Grandfather will guide you to this valley of peace. He knows the lore of the forests and the plains as well as the sun itself. Go with him. Then return and talk to me. Tell me then that you wish to leave my wealth in smoke and the stone of the cities. Will you do this under my firstborn?

[Robert Lightfoot]

All right, Grandfather. I will go now.

[Dan Corbin]

Trail, how many more miles to this canyon?

[Scotty]

We're almost there, Corbin.

[Robert Lightfoot]

You know, Mr. Trail, I confess I'm glad my grandfather asked me to do this and to take Nancy along.

[Scotty]

I'm happy you are, Mr. Lightfoot. See that bend up ahead?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes.

[Scotty]

Well, when we round it, we should see the first view of the Chief's canyon.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Well then, let's hurry.

[Scotty]

All right. Come on, Mr. Corbin. Scotty and Nancy can follow in the rear.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Well, Mr. Lightfoot, it's gorgeous, Mr. Trevor. Awe inspiring. Look, Corbin.

[Dan Corbin]

Yeah? How do we get down?

[Scotty]

We'll consider that tomorrow morning. We'll stay here for the night.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Oh, I can't get over it. But the buffalo.

[Scotty]

We'll have to look for them. They won't look for us.

[Dan Corbin]

Hey, Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Mark?

[Scotty]

You and Nancy unsaddle your horses and tend to them. We're bedding down here for the night. And tomorrow we go down into Buffalo Canyon.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Scotty, let's explore some more. It'll be hours before it's dark.

[Mark Trail]

I should help Mark get wood for the fire.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

What Daddy?

[Mark Trail]

Do it.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

He's enjoying himself, aren't you? Like I never have before. Oh, look. There's that cave we passed with the overhanging rock. I'm going in.

[Mark Trail]

Wait a minute, Nancy. Don't go in without me.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Think I'm afraid of the dark.

[Mark Trail]

Nancy, come on now. There are paw prints all around this cave. It's some sort of an animal's den.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Animals? Look out.

[Mark Trail]

Nancy. That overhanging rock.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Nancy.

[Mark Trail]

Nancy, are you all right?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Scotty, what happened?

[Mark Trail]

That that rock. It fell and locked the entrance to the cave. Reason Nancy, the others must have heard it. They'll get us out. And we have plenty of there lights coming in from the top of the entrance.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

There's something in here.

[Robert Lightfoot]

What?

[Mark Trail]

What?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Just meant it.

[Mark Trail]

Keep still.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

What was that?

[Scotty]

The.

[Mark Trail]

The growl of a mountain lion.

[Narrator]

In the inky blackness of the block cave, Nancy and Scotty cringe against the rocks waiting for the mountain lion to strike. In a moment we will continue. So stand by. Trapped in a cave with a hungry mountain lion. Say, wonder what'll happen to Nancy and Scotty? We'll soon find out.

But first, the makers of Kellogg's Pep the Build Up Wheat cereal ask you to listen to this important message. Boy Scout Week begins today marking the 40th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America. Scout Week will be celebrated in every city, every town and most villages by 2,300,000 Boy Scouts and Scout leaders. Their birthday theme, Strengthen the Arm of Liberty will be portrayed in pageants, demonstrations, public ceremonies and parents night gatherings in every state of the union. During Boy Scout Week, friends and parents will be invited to attend troop meetings and see for themselves how the Boy Scouts of America actually put democracy to work. Boy Scout Week finds the organization at the midpoint of its two year crusade to strengthen the arm of liberty. As part of this program, the Boy Scouts of America seek to bring more boys into their ranks and give them the rich experience of scouting under volunteer leaders of the highest character. Why don't you get in touch with your nearest unit of the Boy Scouts of America? And now back to the adventures of Mark Traillift brought to you by Kellogg's Pep the Build Up Wheat cereal. Kellogg's Pep the cereal with the prize in every package. And I'll tell you about the swell prize in your pep package before the show's over.

On the rim of Buffalo Canyon in the northwest, Mark's young friend Scotty and Nancy Lightfoot have been trapped in a mountain lion's den by a cave in. Mark and Robert Lightfoot, Nancy's father Run up to the den and see Dan Corbin standing there.

[Scotty]

Corbin? What happened?

[Robert Lightfoot]

We heard a crash.

[Dan Corbin]

Your daughter, Mr. Lightfoot, and that kid trapped in the cave behind that big rock. I told her I saw them go in. Then before I could say anything, that rock started to crack and give.

[Scotty]

Well, give me a boost up the top of that rock.

[Dan Corbin]

I told you that trip was foolish, Mr. Lightfoot. Now it may become tragic.

[Scotty]

It will be if you just stand around and talk. Now, help me up the top of the rock trail if anything happens, until I put.

[Dan Corbin]

Scotty. Scotty, can you hear me?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Mark.

[Dan Corbin]

Are you both all right?

[Mark Trail]

We're not hurt, but there's a mountain lion in this cave. Mountain lion?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Trail of my daughter.

[Dan Corbin]

Shut up.

I told you, Mr. Light.

Scotty. Scotty, now listen to me. Fire.

[Mark Trail]

I know, Mark. I've been burning, paper, rot, anything. But I'm running out of.

[Dan Corbin]

All right, Scotty, hoard your fire.

[Scotty]

Corporal, run back to the camp. Get the oil we brought along for the portable stove. Light this. You get our supply of rifle shells, break them and spill the powder in a pile. And hurry, both of you. Hurry before it's too late.

[Dan Corbin]

Well, here's the oil.

[Scotty]

Hand it up.

[Dan Corbin]

Scotty, how's your flame holding out?

[Mark Trail]

Getting low, Bart.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

He's coming closer.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Scotty.

[Dan Corbin]

Kick some fire toward him, Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

He moves back again, Mark.

[Dan Corbin]

All right, now listen. You're not completely sealed in. There's a hole up here.

[Mark Trail]

I know, Mark.

[Dan Corbin]

Good. Now take off your jacket. Tell Nancy to take hers off, too. All right, Mark, I'm going to pour this can of oil through the hole. Sop up all of it you can with your jackets.

[Mark Trail]

All right, start pouring.

[Dan Corbin]

Okay, here it comes. You getting it, Scotty?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Morge.

[Dan Corbin]

Get the jackets drenched in oil, then light one of them. The two of them should be enough to keep that line at bay for another hour. And by that time, we'll blast you out with gunpowder.

[Scotty]

Well, here goes our homemade stick of dynamite.

[Robert Lightfoot]

What trail? Won't the blast hurt Scotty and Nancy?

[Scotty]

They're protected in the cave, Mr. Lightwood. It won't be much of a blast. Just enough to shake up the rocks blocking the entrance.

[Dan Corbin]

Oh, you're going to touch it off.

[Scotty]

Hand me that rifle. Thanks. Now, we'll all walk back about 20 paces.

[Dan Corbin]

Ready, Scotty?

[Mark Trail]

It worked.

[Dan Corbin]

They're coming out.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Trail the mountain lion.

[Scotty]

It's okay, Scotty.

[Dan Corbin]

It's okay.

[Scotty]

You kept your head all right.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Oh, Nancy, let me hold you. Oh, darling, you'll never be in danger again. Never. I'm Calling this trip off right now. No. It's no use, Nancy. My mind is made up.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

But, Papa, I told you it was my fault. I shouldn't have run in there like a shoal.

[Dan Corbin]

Never would have happened if we hadn't been in this godforsaken wilderness.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Corbin's right, Nancy. You can't.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Papa, your promise to your grandfather. My great grandfather.

[Robert Lightfoot]

A promise doesn't mean as much to me as your life.

[Scotty]

Nancy's alive, Mr. Lightfoot, no thanks to you and Traill.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

That's not fair, Mr. Corbin.

[Narrator]

If it weren't for them, we wouldn't have been here.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Mr. Traill didn't tell us to take this trip, and neither did Scotty. Look, Papa, be fair. Besides, we're right on the rim of Buffalo Canyon.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Well, all right. One more day, because it won't make any difference. I'll certainly oppose the chief's plan to throw a fortune away on this wilderness after what's happened today.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Whatever you say, dad. But just keep remembering I'm the only one to blame. This whole horrible accident was all my fault.

[Scotty]

Did you put out the fire, Scotty?

[Mark Trail]

Yes, Mark.

[Scotty]

Not even smoke left the others asleep.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Sure.

[Mark Trail]

You know, it was decent of Nancy to say the whole thing was her fault.

[Scotty]

You're right. Particularly when it wasn't.

[Mark Trail]

What?

[Scotty]

That rock didn't fall. It was pried loose.

[Mark Trail]

Pride.

[Scotty]

Yes. I saw the marks on the rock structure where it split. Wood embedded in the gravel. And a few yards away, a long wooden limb, the end smashed and matted.

[Mark Trail]

But who would have?

[Scotty]

Well, I was with Mr. Lightfoot, and you were with Nancy.

[Mark Trail]

Mr. Corbett.

[Scotty]

Scotty, from now on, if the four of us aren't together, we don't take our eyes off Mr. Corbin. Well, there they are, Mr. Lightfoot. Buffalo.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Yes, buffalo, huh?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

But there aren't very many, Mr. Trail, how many would you say there are?

[Scotty]

Oh, about 70.

[Robert Lightfoot]

But, Trail, I thought My grandfather said there were more.

[Scotty]

Probably up the canyon away, if you want a ride.

[Dan Corbin]

Not me.

[Scotty]

He didn't ask you, Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

Sorry, Papa.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Please think of it. These are the animals who were the food and the shelter and the clothes to our forefathers.

[Robert Lightfoot]

All right, Nancy. I can at least pay that much homage to them. Let's go. Trail.

[Dan Corbin]

Count me out. I'll stay here and admire these 70.

[Scotty]

All right, Mr. Corbin. We'll leave the pack horses with you. The four of us will be back before sundown. Trail, where are you?

[Dan Corbin]

Well, Chief Lightfoot. Mr. Corbin, you made a quick recovery.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Where are the others?

[Chief Lightfoot]

What have you done to them?

[Robert Lightfoot]

Me?

[Dan Corbin]

They're out looking for more buffalo. They weren't satisfied with that small herd.

[Chief Lightfoot]

There when I saw the pack.

[Scotty]

Wait a minute.

[Dan Corbin]

What do you mean, what did I do to them?

[Chief Lightfoot]

Sometimes the tongue speaks in haste.

[Dan Corbin]

And that foot, it's still bandaged. You must have something pretty important to say to make this long ride that way.

[Chief Lightfoot]

I will wait for the return of my grandson.

[Dan Corbin]

But I won't. Now get off that horse.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Let go of that bridle.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Oh, no, Chief.

[Dan Corbin]

You're coming down off that horse. Let me.

Easy, Chief. They can break your bones like sticks. What's this in your robe? A telegram?

[Chief Lightfoot]

Yes.

[Dan Corbin]

Well, maybe it'll be interesting to my grandson, not to me.

[Chief Lightfoot]

It tells that you are a thief and have stolen money from the Lightfoot companies.

[Dan Corbin]

Well, save me the trouble of reading it.

[Chief Lightfoot]

This is why you did not wish me to dispense of my wealth. Such a transaction would have revealed you for the fork tongued liar.

[Dan Corbin]

You are right, Chief. But you will never have a chance to tell your grandson.

[Chief Lightfoot]

What are you going to do?

[Dan Corbin]

See those buffalo? I'm going to ride behind them, scare them into a stampede.

[Chief Lightfoot]

You will accomplish nothing by such foolish action.

[Dan Corbin]

No, but I will. First, the butt of my gun. Now, Chief. Now to get those buffaloes stampeding right over you.

[Narrator]

Dan Corbin rides out wildly firing his gun. The frightened buffalo stampede in the direct path of the unconscious Chief Lightfoot. In a moment we will continue, so keep listening.

Well, here it is. The whole story about that prize in every package of Kellogg's Pep. A statuette. That's right. A handsome, brightly colored statuette of a cowboy and Indian. Football, baseball, basketball player, or an animal of most any description. Your box of Pep may contain any one of 18 different statuettes. Trade them with your friends.

Collect them.

Each statuette stands on its own pedestal so you can stand them up in toy villages, move them around in games. And remember, you don't send in a box top or wait for your prize and you don't pay a single penny extra. Just look inside your box of Pep and find your bright color colorful statuette. And there's a chance your prize may be a Pep turbojet model plane with an aluminum jet type wing, all ready to cut out, assemble and fly. So tell mother to pick the package with Pep on the front. Pep for Kellogg's Pep the buildup Wheat cereal. Pep for prize in every package. Yes, to have your fun and eat it too.

[Dan Corbin]

Pick Pep, the prize package with the powerful powerhouse Punch. Pick Pat.

[Narrator]

Unaware that the herd of stampeding buffalo are headed straight in the direction of Chief lightfoot.

Mark.

Scotty, Mr. Lightfoot and Nancy are riding back to camp. Suddenly, they hear the ominous rumble of thundering hooves. They spur their horses and race ahead.

[Mark Trail]

Look, Mark, the herd stampeding.

[Scotty]

They're headed away from us.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Where's Corbin Trail?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

By those trees.

[Dan Corbin]

Come on.

[Scotty]

Oh, boy.

[Dan Corbin]

Whoa. Corbin, what happened?

It was horrible. Horrible.

[Scotty]

What are you talking about?

[Dan Corbin]

Your grandfather, Mr. Lightfoot. He's out there on the ground.

[Robert Lightfoot]

What?

[Nancy Lightfoot]

Oh, no.

[Dan Corbin]

He came riding up a little while ago. His ankle was better. Said he wanted to see how you like this land.

[Scotty]

But what happened?

[Dan Corbin]

The buffalo. He rode right into the herd. I warned him not to him. And suddenly a big bull charged his horse. Oh, there's nothing else to tell. The horse threw the chief and the bull was on him before I could do anything.

[Robert Lightfoot]

This place is a canyon of misfortune.

[Scotty]

Scotty, ride out and look for the chief.

[Mark Trail]

Right.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

I'll go with this guy.

[Robert Lightfoot]

All that's come of this idea is evil. He wanted me to help in restoring nature to this land. Look what it's done to him.

[Scotty]

Nature didn't do anything, but man did. And that man is Dan Corbin.

[Dan Corbin]

What?

[Robert Lightfoot]

What do you mean, Trail?

[Scotty]

Nature is my business. And I know that never, never under any provocation will a buffalo charge a mounted man. They accept horse and rider as a member of the herd. Why was on that principle that the Indians hunted the buffalo Trail, Is this true? Look at him. Lightfoot, ask him about the rock slide that trapped Nancy and Scotty.

[Mark Trail]

Mark. Oh, boy. Here's the chief.

[Scotty]

Scotty, you shouldn't have moved him.

[Nancy Lightfoot]

He insisted. Mr.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Trail Grandfather.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Son of my son. Chief. Chief.

[Scotty]

Don't talk.

[Chief Lightfoot]

I have come to the end of my time.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Please, Grandfather, be quiet. I can't understand how you lived through that stampede.

[Mark Trail]

He was in a small ravine, Mark. It gave him some perseverance.

[Scotty]

Scotty, the chief wants to talk.

[Chief Lightfoot]

I lived, my grandson, only to tell you that this man is evil. This Corbin.

[Dan Corbin]

Now, listen.

[Narrator]

I won't stand or my rifle will.

[Robert Lightfoot]

Shut you up forever. I know now, my grandfather.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Then you will not listen to Corbin's counsel, but only to your heart.

[Robert Lightfoot]

I shall.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Mark, will you help my grandson make this restoration of my people's land the finest in the West? Yes, Chief.

[Scotty]

And it will be the best and most satisfying job that I've ever had.

[Chief Lightfoot]

Good. Now my heart is light. I can pass from this earth in peace.

[Scotty]

Well, Scotty, I feel like a nice lazy hunting trip after all this. Ducks, maybe. Why, I can just see myself.

[Narrator]

Mark will go duck hunting on Wednesday. All right. And he'll take Cherry, too. But I bet he'd leave Cherry home if he knew the perils they face when they run into a killer. Learn all about the killer with a battery gun by tuning in same time, same station on Wednesday to Mark Trail. 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 sunbaked plains.

Remember to tune in then next Wednesday when Mark Trail will again be brought to you by the Build Up Wheat cereal, Kellogg's Pep.

This program is entirely fictitious. The resemblance of any name, personality or incident to an actual prison or event is merely coincidental. This program came from New York. Mark Trail also appears in the comics of many of America's leading newspapers. Look for it daily and Sunday. Matt Crowley portrays Mark Trail and Ben Cooper is Scotty. Mark Trail is directed by Drex Hyen. Today's story was written by Palmer Thompson. This is the Mutual Broadcasting.

[Dan Corbin]

SA.