Red Ryder 42-02-07 (03) Trouble on the Shogono Trail

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Red Ryder 42-02-07 (03) Trouble on the Shogono Trail
Release Date: March 12, 2025
Duration: Approximately 26 minutes

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Introduction

In this thrilling installment of Red Ryder, America's famed fighting cowboy, Red Ryder, alongside his loyal companion, Little Beaver, navigate the perilous Shogono Trail. Set in the rugged landscape of the Shokano Butte country, this episode delves deep into themes of bravery, deception, and justice as Red Ryder confronts a band of cattle rustlers threatening the peace of the region.

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Plot Overview

1. Encounter in Whispering Wolves Ghost Town ([00:33] - [07:21])

Red Ryder and Little Beaver arrive in the ghost town of Whispering Wolves, where they stumble upon an underground river tunnel. Inside, they discover Jane Bruce, a schoolteacher, Ace Hanlon’s henchman Bruce, and an old prospector named Pete, all held captive by a group of cattle rustlers led by Ace Hanlon.

Red Ryder ([01:15]): "Whoa, partner. Don't touch that dial. Hang on to your chair and join Red Ryder, the West's foremost fighting man, in another thrilling adventure of the range."

As they attempt to rescue the captives, a confrontation ensues. The rustlers, armed and menacing, force everyone to jump into the river, leading to intense swimming and strategic maneuvers to outsmart their adversaries. During the chaos, Pete sustains a shoulder injury but manages to support Red Ryder.

2. Confrontation with Ace Hanlon ([07:27] - [15:39])

The scene shifts to Ace Hanlon at the Painted Valley ranch, discussing tactics with his men about the stalled barge loads of cattle and the missing girl, Jane Bruce. Hanlon orders Little Beaver to retrieve Jane, emphasizing the need for intimidation and coercion.

Ace Hanlon ([04:45]): "I'll give the orders, Beef. Something else. The duchess told me a girl was lost during the night on the Shogono Trail. Jane Bruce, the school teacher. Did you run into her?"

Little Beaver, torn between duty and conscience, assists in the rescue but faces moral dilemmas as the situation escalates. Meanwhile, Red Ryder and Pete strategize to block the cattle channel by rolling a massive rock into the river to impede the rustlers' plans.

3. Rescue and Deception ([15:39] - [21:00])

Red Ryder, Pete, and Little Beaver confront the rustlers at the river corral. Utilizing deceptive tactics, they manage to disarm the rustlers and secure the area. The Duchess, owner of the Painted Valley ranch and Red Ryder’s aunt, arrives, bringing authority and support to thwart Ace Hanlon’s schemes.

The Duchess ([19:15]): "Say, Red, where's Jane? Ain't she with you?"

Her timely intervention helps expose Ace Hanlon’s manipulations and restores order. The alliance between Red Ryder and his family proves pivotal in overcoming the adversity posed by the rustlers.

4. Resolution and Future Threats ([21:00] - [26:10])

As peace seems to settle, Red Ryder and Jane Bruce discover suspicious activities related to the rustlers’ operations. A mysterious freight wagon and armed men suggest that Ace Hanlon's influence extends deeper than initially thought.

Red Ryder ([26:04]): "You know, my aunt homesteaded this place a good many years ago. Began raising cattle and, uh."

The episode concludes with unresolved tension, hinting at future conflicts as Red Ryder pledges to uncover the truth behind the freight wagon and Ace Hanlon’s rampant cattle rustling.

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Character Highlights

• Red Ryder: The embodiment of courage and integrity, Red Ryder consistently demonstrates leadership and tactical acumen in the face of danger.

  Red Ryder ([18:35]): "I'll just use you for a shield. Now order those men to stop shooting."

• Little Beaver: Red’s steadfast young companion, Little Beaver showcases bravery and resourcefulness, balancing his youthful spirit with a keen sense of justice.

  Little Beaver ([03:04]): "You ain't gonna get away with this, Ryder."

• Ace Hanlon: The primary antagonist, Hanlon is a cunning and ruthless cattle rustler whose schemes threaten the tranquility of the Shokono Trail.

  Ace Hanlon ([12:09]): "Miss Bruce was just telling me the terrible thing that happened to you all last night."

• Jane Bruce: A schoolteacher caught in the crossfire, Jane's resilience and eventual gratitude towards Red Ryder add depth to her character's journey.

  Jane Bruce ([15:12]): "I never dreamed Ace Hanlon was mixed up with that cattle stealing."

• The Duchess: Red Ryder’s authoritative aunt, she plays a crucial role in countering Ace Hanlon’s plans and supports the protagonists with her influence.

  The Duchess ([19:15]): "How'd you feel if you'd just almost seen your favorite nephew heading for the pearly gates?"

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Key Themes and Insights

• Good vs. Evil: The classic struggle is portrayed through Red Ryder’s battle against Ace Hanlon’s unscrupulous methods.

• Courage and Sacrifice: Characters demonstrate profound bravery, often putting themselves at risk to protect others.

• Deception and Strategy: Tactical maneuvers, such as blocking the cattle channel, highlight the importance of intelligence over brute force.

• Community and Family: The support from the Duchess and the unity among the protagonists underline the strength found in community bonds.

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Conclusion

Red Ryder 42-02-07 (03) Trouble on the Shogono Trail delivers an engaging narrative filled with action, suspense, and moral dilemmas. Through Red Ryder’s unwavering dedication and the collective efforts of his allies, the episode underscores the triumph of righteousness over malice. As the season progresses, listeners can anticipate further adventures and the unraveling of deeper conspiracies threatening the peace of the Shokono Trail.

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Notable Quotes

• Red Ryder ([01:15]):
  "Whoa, partner. Don't touch that dial. Hang on to your chair and join Red Ryder, the West's foremost fighting man, in another thrilling adventure of the range."

• Ace Hanlon ([04:45]):
  "I'll give the orders, Beef. Something else. The duchess told me a girl was lost during the night on the Shogono Trail. Jane Bruce, the school teacher. Did you run into her?"

• Little Beaver ([03:04]):
  "You ain't gonna get away with this, Ryder."

• The Duchess ([19:15]):
  "Say, Red, where's Jane? Ain't she with you?"

• Jane Bruce ([15:12]):
  "I never dreamed Ace Hanlon was mixed up with that cattle stealing."

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This episode masterfully intertwines action-packed sequences with character development, making it a standout installment in the Red Ryder series. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Harold's Old Time Radio, Trouble on the Shogono Trail offers an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Narrator]

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[Red Ryder]

From out of the west comes Red Rider, America's famous fighting cowboy.

[Narrator]

Drop that pony, little diva. There's trouble tonight on the Shokano Trail.

[Little Beaver]

You picture, Med Rider. Get along. Get him up. Get.

[Narrator]

Come on, Thunder.

[Little Beaver]

Ride them, cowboy.

[Red Ryder]

Whoa, partner. Don't touch that dial. Hang on to your chair and join Red Ryder, the West foremost fighting man, in another thrilling adventure of the range. Red Ryder and Little Beaver bring you this grand entertainment for the whole family three times weekly. So tune in this same station every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. For the adventures of Red Rider. Up in the Shokano Butte country, Red Ryder and the little Indian boy, Little Beaver have met with adventure in the ghost town of Whispering Wolves. In an underground river tunnel, Red finds Jane, Bruce and an old prospector named Pete. Both of them virtual prisoners like himself. Just as the four were about to make their escape, they found themselves cut off by the band of cattle rustlers. Now they await another barge load of cattle coming down the underground River.

[Narrator]

Here they come. All set, old timer?

[Little Beaver]

All set. I'm sure aiming to plug one of miffle kin.

[Jane Bruce]

Now.

[Narrator]

Hold it, Peter. No shoot unless we have to. Hey, who's up? All right, you hombres. Hold that barge overhead. And don't make a move towards those holsters.

[Little Beaver]

I saw him reach, Red. Now, you umbrella, do what Red Ryder says. It's Red Rider here.

[Red Ryder]

Yeah, that's better.

[Narrator]

Now pull it near the shore. Jump off, all of you. One at a time and with your hands up.

[Little Beaver]

You ain't gonna get away with this, Ryder.

[Narrator]

I'll worry about that. Keep him covered, Pete.

[Little Beaver]

I am. And I just hope somebody makes a move.

[Narrator]

All right, Jane. Little Beaver, come on down.

[Jane Bruce]

Both of us.

[Little Beaver]

All right, get on.

[Narrator]

You get on too, Pete. Yeah, Jane, start shoving off. I'll keep him covered till you're set.

[Little Beaver]

I'm warning you, Ryder, you'll be plum sorry for this.

[Narrator]

I'll take the consequences. All set? All right. Keep them covered, Pete.

[Little Beaver]

Yeah. Here I come. Get him, boy. Get Rider. Never Mind the. I can't hold more bread. Uhoh. Bad luck.

[Narrator]

The bars are stuck.

[Little Beaver]

Eat. Cattle's in the way.

[Narrator]

We can't get it off. Jump in the river. Swim, boy.

[Little Beaver]

Yes, yes. Swim.

[Narrator]

All right, boys.

[Little Beaver]

Run down the river. Get on. Swim.

[Narrator]

Get right.

[Ace Hanlon]

Yeah.

[Little Beaver]

Sure glad you rode down to have a look this morning, Mr. Hammond.

[Ace Hanlon]

Understand you've had some visitors around the vicinity, Beef.

[Little Beaver]

Yeah, we did. Took care of them all. Where'd you hear?

[Ace Hanlon]

I've just come from the Painted Valley ranch. Heard that redheaded nephew of the duchesses was one of them.

[Little Beaver]

Yeah, he was. Dusty's got him tied up inside up river.

[Ace Hanlon]

Keep him there, understand? How many barge loads of cattle did you get through tonight?

[Little Beaver]

11. Better than 200 head. Only one barge load left to come through. Reckon the boys must have hung it on a rock or something. Or to been through long ago.

[Ace Hanlon]

You reckon I want to know. Beef.

[Little Beaver]

Yes, sir. I'll find out why the bars didn't come through.

[Ace Hanlon]

That's better. And speed up those men on the Branton operations.

[Little Beaver]

Yes, sir.

[Ace Hanlon]

We got to clean up today and get these animals out of here fast. We're quitting this.

[Little Beaver]

Quitting?

[Ace Hanlon]

You heard me.

[Little Beaver]

Well, gosh, Mr. Hammond. This is a sure fire way of snake and cattle off the range. The other side of the Shokano views. There's still 10,000 heads.

[Ace Hanlon]

I'll give the orders. Beef. Something else. The duchess told me a girl was lost during the night on the Shokanoe Trail. Jane Bruce, the school teacher. Did you run into her?

[Little Beaver]

Yeah, she got in our way all right. She's inside with the rest.

[Ace Hanlon]

Go in and fetch her, huh? Act rough when you bring her down. I want her scared plenty. I'll come along and take her from you.

[Narrator]

Get it.

[Ace Hanlon]

And while you're in there, find out what happened to that last barge load. What's wrong with your men over there?

[Little Beaver]

What the.

[Ace Hanlon]

Looks like a body. They're fishing out of the water.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Little Beaver]

Holy catfish. Why, it's that good.

[Ace Hanlon]

I thought you said Dusty had him tied up inside.

[Little Beaver]

She's alive. Look at her fight.

[Ace Hanlon]

Well, the same thing goes. Take her by yourself up the hillside a piece. Get tough and lay it on thick. Scare her plenty. I'll be along. And don't be surprised at anything I do.

[Little Beaver]

Don't get it, boss. It'll be the best thing just to let her drown or something.

[Ace Hanlon]

Will you do what I tell you? Rescuing this girl will give me the alibi I might need if something slips in this business. I'll get going.

[Little Beaver]

Pete. Pete. Where are You. I don't think I can make it, Red.

[Narrator]

Let's try the floor. I've got hold of your shirt.

[Little Beaver]

Oh, this. This blasted shoulder.

[Narrator]

I can feel butter. You put your good arm around my neck, I'll get a show and pull you up.

[Little Beaver]

I'm sure obliged to you, Red. I thought it was a garter.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Well, we're out of range anyway.

[Little Beaver]

Where's Jane? A little beaver.

[Narrator]

They can swim all right. No doubt they swung ashore somewhere further down.

[Ace Hanlon]

Here.

[Narrator]

You lie right here on those rocks. Let's hope those men don't get that barge loose for a while. I'll go look for Little Beaver.

[Little Beaver]

Hey, look. Grab him.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Little Beaver]

Face down in the water. I seen him. What's the matter with him?

[Narrator]

I don't know. Little Beaver. Little Beaver, answer me.

[Little Beaver]

Out. Colder than taters in a root cellar.

[Narrator]

Must have hit his head on a rock.

[Little Beaver]

Air got winged when he died. Never heerd of an Injun drownin'his.

[Narrator]

Heart beatin'yes. Fitfully.

[Little Beaver]

What about that gal?

[Narrator]

I saw Jane break a whale right downstream? She can swim. Little Beavers. I'll worry now. I'm gonna try artificial respiration.

[Little Beaver]

Just hope them devils don't get that barge unstuck and come by in the middle of it.

[Narrator]

Then stand. God, you couldn't help me anyway with that shoulder. Come on, Little Beaver. One, two, three, four.

[Little Beaver]

Better hurry, Red.

[Narrator]

You'll just have to chance it. One, two.

[Little Beaver]

Here.

[Narrator]

Three.

[Little Beaver]

I hear the sigh like from his lips. Good. One, two. Come on, Kid. Just take her in. My big lungs.

[Narrator]

Ouch.

[Little Beaver]

That's pushing your ribs and hurts, Kid.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Little beaver. Feel them dum dum in head.

[Little Beaver]

Hey, you can think your lucky stars are red, right? Or you feel anything in the hate, Kid.

[Old Prospector Pete]

What happened, Red Ryder?

[Narrator]

Not much. Except you did a pretty good job of trying to get drowned.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Drowned? Swimming like fishy.

[Narrator]

Maybe you hit your head when you jumped from the barge and knock yourself out a minute and then swallowed some water.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Little Beaver, he always in heap trouble.

[Ace Hanlon]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Now, you're all right now, but we've got to find Jane.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Where Jane?

[Narrator]

I don't know, but I wish I did.

[Little Beaver]

And what about that barge upstream, Red.

[Narrator]

That'S something else we've got to take care of. We can't have them on our necks while we're looking for Jane.

[Little Beaver]

Hey, we going back up there?

[Narrator]

Do you see that rock up above? Maybe we can roll it down and block part of the channel.

[Little Beaver]

Great jumping catfish. You got some. We'll shipwreck them.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Help him, Red Rider.

[Little Beaver]

No.

[Narrator]

Now you stay Right here and take a rest. You'll have enough to do later. Come on, Pete.

[Little Beaver]

Coming. Wonder. Wonder what we can pry it loose with?

[Narrator]

Well, there's an old prospector's trick of making a rock jump by firing under it.

[Little Beaver]

Well, I hung onto that six gun when I jumped into the drink. Here you are.

[Narrator]

Thanks. No wonder you couldn't swim. And one arm hurt. Well, let's see. Wonder if it'll work since it got wet.

[Little Beaver]

Dunno. It was that guard's gun. Looked pretty well aisled. Can't never tell till you fired.

[Narrator]

Then let's fire. I'll stand back. If she rolls, she'll roll fast.

[Little Beaver]

You did it, Red.

[Narrator]

Take them a while longer to get off that rock and they won't be expecting it either.

[Little Beaver]

Now what?

[Narrator]

Well, the same thing we tried before. We'll walk toward the tunnel's mouth. You still got the guard's clothes on?

[Little Beaver]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

And when we get there, we'll walk forward with our hands up and you pointing that gun.

[Little Beaver]

Well, what about the kid?

[Narrator]

That's right. I'll have to carry him, I guess.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Little Beaver walk them. All right now.

[Narrator]

I told you to lie down and get some rest for a while.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Little Beaver. Welcome.

[Little Beaver]

You best let Red carry you anyway, Kid. All right.

[Narrator]

Put your arm right around my neck.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Red Ryder make him Little Beaver feel like a poo.

[Narrator]

Yes, and Little Beaver make them Red Rider feel like spanking Little Beaver. Right on the buckskins, too. Ready, Pete?

[Little Beaver]

All set, Red.

[Narrator]

All right, now keep in back of us. If you see anybody coming from behind, shoot.

[Little Beaver]

Don't worry, I will.

[Jane Bruce]

You put me down, you filthy.

[The Duchess]

You put me down.

[Little Beaver]

Oh, so you want to be put down, you wildcat. Didn't appreciate the fact I saved you from the river, huh? All right. Here you go. Down.

[The Duchess]

Brave, aren't you, when you're fighting women? Like to see you face somebody like Red Ryder.

[Little Beaver]

When I meet up with Red Ryder again, he's going to the same happy hunting grounds you are. He'll tell you all about it when you get there.

[Red Ryder]

Well, how's that for a thrill? But excitement is just naturally Red Rider's middle name. When he's riding the range, you know something's going to happen every minute. So for real entertainment, with a thrill a minute, listen to the adventures of Red Rider. Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at this same time, Tell your friends about this thrilling new radio program, too. They'll enjoy these exciting adventures of the range as much as you do. Remember, Red Rider is On the air three times weekly, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night. At 7:30. And now back to the thrilling events that are taking place in the Shokano Butte country. Beef Jones, the hireling of Ace Hanlon, has carried Jane Bruce away from the river and stands menacing her with a revolver he has just drawn. Jane has been cowering before him, but now she struggles to her feet.

[Jane Bruce]

What do you want? Why did you bring me up here among these rocks?

[Little Beaver]

Get it out of your head. I saved you because you're pretty. You know too much to ever look pretty to me so. Well, does this look pretty?

[Jane Bruce]

What are you trying to do, frighten me?

[Little Beaver]

This shooting iron don't hurt a bit. Sure does seem a pity a girl young as you to be dying in her prime like.

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, why do so much talking? Do you really mean to kill me?

[The Duchess]

Do it.

[Little Beaver]

All right, you snake. What?

[Ace Hanlon]

You're gone. And reach.

[Little Beaver]

I got you covered. Yes, that's better.

[Ace Hanlon]

And stay reaching. Well, what was this gumboil on the face of the earth about to do to you, miss?

[Jane Bruce]

Kill me, that's what he said. Why, Mr. Hammond.

[Ace Hanlon]

Oh, you know me?

[Jane Bruce]

Yes, of course. I've seen you. Devil's Hole.

[Ace Hanlon]

Well, you must be Miss Bruce. What happened?

[Jane Bruce]

Most terrible things. I met this man last night when I was looking for Red Ryder. He tied me up, took me underground to a dreadful place. They're running cattle through a tunnel down an underground river.

[Ace Hanlon]

I see. Cattle rustler, eh? One of the men stealing cattle from my own ranch. The Bar Jay, no doubt. Yeah, I want to talk to him a minute. My horse is down there in the hollow. You go get on it. I'll join you in a moment and see you get home to the Painted Valley range.

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, thank you, Mr. Hanlon. I'll be waiting for you.

[Ace Hanlon]

You never did have much brains, did you, Beef?

[Little Beaver]

Didn't I act right, boss? Oh gosh, I laid it on as thick as I could.

[Ace Hanlon]

Keep your hands up while you're talking.

[Little Beaver]

Oh yeah.

[Ace Hanlon]

After I've left, get down into that tunnel. Find out why that barge hasn't come through. And get both Red Rider and that old prospector. Understand? Get em like dogs, both of them. No more of this Tying them up until ready. Then you and the men clear out fast.

[Little Beaver]

Jeepers. Seems like we've been walking about a thousand miles. Ought to be getting somewhere soon.

[Narrator]

We are. Look up ahead.

[Little Beaver]

Well bust my pick handle. I didn't see it. A glimmering of light.

[Narrator]

Must be dawn above ground. And that's the end of the tunnel.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Yeah. Hope catch him outdoors soon. Plenty sleepy.

[Narrator]

Yes, it's been a Big night. Think you can walk now?

[Old Prospector Pete]

Me walk? All right.

[Narrator]

All right. Down you go, little people. Now tell me more about what's waiting for us at the tunnel's mouth.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Big Valley river flow out corrals one.

[Narrator]

Side of river corrals for the stolen cattle. The men around close lots of it.

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[Narrator]

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[Old Prospector Pete]

Some same man seeing tunnels.

[Narrator]

You say you did send the old prospector to the ranch after.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Help send him old timer. Tell him get Annie Dutchess. Come Red rider in trouble.

[Narrator]

Well, I hope it's not too much to hope he'll understand and that we won't march into a mess of our men, including that beef hombre. Well, all we can do now is keep on going. Now, the minute we see anybody, little beaver, remember to keep your hands up like a prisoner. And you, Pete, keep that hat down and gun level so you'll look like the God.

[Little Beaver]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

We can only hope that when we walk out of here, Beef's men will think that you are.

[Little Beaver]

Never mind repeating, Red. I'm game. I don't want to die in no hole like a gopher.

[Narrator]

And if anything starts outside, little beaver, just fall flat. Don't try to help.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Do them, you Dutch them.

[Little Beaver]

Well, from the looks of things now, I'd say it's six of one, half a dozen of t'other. But it's up to you.

[Red Ryder]

Let's start.

[Little Beaver]

And then he says to me, why, you sneaking coyote. You ought to be ashamed, planning to shoot a pretty girl like this. Just like that, he says. Like in them Western stories. And then he says, clear out of here before I drill you where you stand and don't come back. Then he started shooting up in the air as if to scare the daylights out of me. I run like a yelling to see the diamondback. That Hamlin sure can put it on. What's he aim to do with the gall beef? Oh, he smart handling. Is too many people around, people know there's something up. Hey, he got himself now in a position of rescuing the gal, see? All right, you boys now get back to work and get them cows out of here like Hamon said. Jim, you and Lou come with me into the tunnel to find out.

[Ace Hanlon]

Hey, hey, Beep.

[Little Beaver]

Look. Look what's coming out in the tunnel. Yeah, if it ain't Red Rider and that engine kid what tags along with him. Coming out with their hands up too, and at the prod of a gun. Why, it's Dusty bringing them out. I'd know them Bat Wing paints and that black Stetson's anywhere. Hey, something happens inside there. All right, come on, boys. Let's give that red rider a real welcome. Hey, welcome to Hidden Valley, Mr. Ryder. I swear, if it ain't a real pleasure. Ain't it, boy? If we'd have known you was coming, we'd have baked a cake and opened a cake of nails. Bring the folks over a little closer. We'd kind of like to shake Red Ryder's hand. Hey, Beef, that ain't Dusty. Dusty ain't got no white stubbler beard. I. Stay right where you are, everybody. Well, I'll be blasted. I got this.45 right on your middle, son. That's that Prospector. I bet Red Ryder talked you into trying a fool stunt like this. Walking into 20 men without the chance of a rabbit in a wolf den. By jings, I gotta hand it to all of you. You got nerve just the same.

[Narrator]

Pete's got you fellas covered and you haven't got us.

[Little Beaver]

I'm warning you, Red, that old prospector will shoot only once. It's all he'll be able to shoot. I'm advising him to drop that iron and pronto.

[Narrator]

Maybe Pete will shoot only once, but when he does, he'll get you, Beef.

[Little Beaver]

Now stand back.

[Narrator]

Just keep a path clear to those.

[Little Beaver]

Horses over there and I'll be done. Yes, sir, that was sure neat. All right, boys, let him get to the corrals. I gotta admire em. Give me that gum key. Here you are. You can't get away with this rider. I Blow you full of holes. Go out, Red, they'll get you. No, they won't. Come on. But, Red, what are you gonna do?

[Narrator]

All right, Beef. I'll just use you for a shield. Now order those men to stop shooting.

[Little Beaver]

You think I'm crazy, fighter?

[Narrator]

Either you tell them that or you'll never give another look. I only winged you that time. The next shot will be at close range and more effective. I'll give you three. One.

[Little Beaver]

All right, all right. All the shooting, boys.

[Narrator]

Yeah, that's the idea. And throw out your guns, every one of you. Yeah, that's better. Now you're showing some sense.

[Little Beaver]

Red. Listen. Some more of them coming. You can't stand here and hold them off. They got.

[Narrator]

Hell, I'll take it easy, Pete.

[Little Beaver]

And pick up those guns.

[Narrator]

We'll find a way on it.

[Little Beaver]

Yeah, but we're signing our own death warrant. Hey.

[Narrator]

Hey, wait a minute, Pete.

[Little Beaver]

Look who's here.

[Narrator]

The duchess. Well, if it isn't my favorite aunt. And am I glad to see you, Red Ryder.

[The Duchess]

If you wasn't a grown man by the brass buttons of Billy Babcock I'd get off this cayuse and give you the fashion of your life.

[Narrator]

No, no, Duchess, don't go getting all head up.

[The Duchess]

Head up. How'd you feel if you'd just almost seen your favorite nephew heading for the pearly gates?

[Little Beaver]

Phew.

[The Duchess]

We watched that crazy maneuver from up above the valley and saw every minute of it. Walking straight into that mess with only one gun. Are you crazy?

[Narrator]

Did you come here because the old prospect had told you?

[The Duchess]

Well, I was a sitting out after you. Anyway, I was that plum nervous because Jane didn't show up all night. But when he come to the ranch and said what was happening, man, did I round up the boys. And from the looks of you all, you've been through a tornado, flood and the prickly heat.

[Narrator]

Oh, Pete, this is my aunt, the Duchess, owner of the Painted Valley ranch.

[Little Beaver]

Howdy, ma'am.

[The Duchess]

Howdy, old timer. Say, Red, where's Jane? Ain't she with you?

[Narrator]

She was for a while, but we lost her in the river up the tunnel there.

[The Duchess]

In the river? You mean Brown?

[Narrator]

I don't know. We lost it when we had to swim for it to escape from some of these rustlers up that underground river.

[The Duchess]

Great Hannah.

[Narrator]

Now, Duchess, you see about having the boys take that bunch of rustlers. They've got prisoners over to the marshal. I'm going back in that tunnel after Jane.

[The Duchess]

Them cattle in the corral, they're ours. Why, that's Our brand.

[Narrator]

Most of them are ours. They were brought down the river from the other side of the buttes on barges.

[The Duchess]

Now, wait a minute. I guess I can take care of things. And I and Frank can lead our men up that tunnel to look for Jane. You're all tuckered out.

[Narrator]

But Duchess, I can't go back to the ranch.

[The Duchess]

I sure thought you're frazzled. Out to an old buggy whip. Look at you. Eyes like a desert sunset before a rain. Why, you drop for sleep right into that river looking for Jane. The boys can do it better than you can.

[Narrator]

All right, Duchess. Little Beaver and Pete and I'll go back to the ranch. We do need a square meal.

[The Duchess]

Say, this is Bar J ranch land, ain't it?

[Narrator]

It sure is, Duchess. Belongs to Ace Hanlon.

[The Duchess]

You don't say.

[Narrator]

Do you get it?

[The Duchess]

Then he must be back to the Russian.

[Narrator]

That's just what I aim to prove. Now this Beef Jones was his rustling foreman. He changed brands in that corral, then mixed them up with his own animals till he was ready to ship them out.

[The Duchess]

Well, I'll be hog tied. Now look, you and Little Beaver take a couple of these cayuses and start for home. And tell that poker face Ching Hao that if he don't fiddle you up right and proper, he'll hear from me say wisdom thunders. Fit as a fiddle in his barn back home where you ought to be.

[Narrator]

But Dutch.

[The Duchess]

Now, no more questions. Just get. And you too, you little brown skinned whippersnapper.

[Narrator]

All right, come on in, Little Peter.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Me come.

[J]

Oh, oh, Missy led lighter. He come, he come, he come home like a Chinese swallow.

[Narrator]

See, Ching, we're stubborn. What can you fix up fast?

[J]

Oh, you starved? Hey, hungry?

[Narrator]

Oh, no good.

[J]

He starved. Oh, Cheng Hao Ching Hao. He fixed the number one black flesh. Oh, can tell by your hand. Powder mark your gun. He'll go off here sometime.

[Narrator]

Yeah, that's right, Ching. Lots of guns went off last night. Say, got any hotcakes left, Ching? And a couple of eggs and what's the matter?

[J]

You know. Go on, give you order all the same, lest along.

[Narrator]

See, I thought I heard. Who's in that front parlor, Ching? Who is it?

[J]

Oh, oh, front parlor. Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah. Big supplies Company.

[Narrator]

Company who?

[J]

They make it come in. They say how to walk a light in, Ching. He kept his mouth shut.

[Narrator]

Who is it? Jingle.

[J]

You're lucky, huh?

[Narrator]

All right, I will.

[Jane Bruce]

Please let me. Thank you, Mr. Henry.

[Narrator]

Why, J.

[Jane Bruce]

Red, I'm so glad to see you. You're safe.

[Narrator]

Yes, and the Same to you.

[Ace Hanlon]

Good morning, Mr. Ryder.

[Narrator]

What are you doing here, Hanlon?

[Ace Hanlon]

I'm glad to see you're safe, Ryder. Ms. Bruce was just telling me the terrible thing that happened to you all last night.

[Narrator]

I ask you what you're doing here.

[Jane Bruce]

Red, what are you saying to Mr. Hanlon? I don't think I'll ever be able to repay him for all he's done.

[Narrator]

And you stand repay him for what?

[Jane Bruce]

For saving my life.

[Narrator]

That doesn't make sense, Jane.

[Jane Bruce]

Yes, it does. If Jones was going to make certain I wouldn't tell what I'd seen. He took me up the hillside and claimed he was going to shoot me.

[Narrator]

And just then I suppose Mr. Ace Hanlon happened along and rescued you. Yes.

[Ace Hanlon]

You see, Ryder? Yes, I do.

[Narrator]

Clever of you, Hanlon. And pretty good timing.

[Jane Bruce]

Red, will you explain why you're acting this way?

[Ace Hanlon]

Well, I'm afraid, Ms. Bruce, that Ryder's upset because it wasn't he who rescued you. He thinks he's got the monopoly on being the fair haired boy of these parts.

[Narrator]

You know that we cleaned up that rustling business on your ranch, don't you?

[Ace Hanlon]

I don't know what you mean.

[Narrator]

Well, The Duchess and 30 men are out there right now. Our cattle are being driven back. Your men are prisoners.

[Ace Hanlon]

You'll find I've just discovered myself what was happening on my property. You'll find I've informed the sheriff of Devil's Hole to arrest those men today. I was investigating when I happened to find Ms. Bruce and was able to save her life.

[Narrator]

There's nothing stupid about you, is there, Ace?

[Ace Hanlon]

I consider stupidity a very real crime. Thanks.

[Narrator]

There must be a way of pinning this on you. And I'm gonna do.

[J]

Everybody eat like a number one cow in his claw. Slack Red.

[Jane Bruce]

And all of you. I want to say something. I'm. I'm sorry for what happened just now.

[Narrator]

Oh, it's nothing. I think I'll have some more coffee.

[Jane Bruce]

No, no, please. I've got to say it. I never dreamed Ace Hanlon was mixed up with that cattle stealing. And if you all think he is, I'm sure he must be. But you must admit I was startled to hear you talk as you did after he rescued me.

[Narrator]

Now look, Jane, it's forgotten. We're all too tired now to think. Now, how about letting me go through with that promise I made before all this happened?

[Jane Bruce]

Promise?

[Ace Hanlon]

Sure.

[Narrator]

To take you riding out in the range. Remember?

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, I'd like you very much.

[Narrator]

All right then. It's a deal.

[Old Prospector Pete]

Squad trouble.

[Narrator]

We'll get started the first thing in the morning after we've had some rest. That soil all right for you, Jane?

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, yes, it's my favorite horse.

[The Duchess]

What about Ace Hanlon, Red?

[Narrator]

Well, we'll just have to wait to get him, Duchess. He can't keep drawn to an inside straight forever.

[Jane Bruce]

But no horse can beat Thunder, I guess.

[Narrator]

Well, is the view worth your losing a race?

[Jane Bruce]

No wonder they call it Painted Valley.

[Narrator]

You know, my aunt homesteaded this place a good many years ago. Began raising cattle and, uh.

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, what do you see down there.

[Narrator]

On the highway leading to Devil's Hole?

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, one of Dad's freight wagons.

[Narrator]

Are you sure?

[Jane Bruce]

Jane, you can hardly see it. But the wagon's got Bruce Freighting Company, Millersville on the side.

[Narrator]

Oh, so that's your dad's company. I've seen the wagons.

[Jane Bruce]

Dad's hoping that.

[Narrator]

Oh, hold it.

[Jane Bruce]

What's the matter?

[Narrator]

Look over there down the road for behind that clump of mesquite.

[Jane Bruce]

Oh, it's another wagon.

[Narrator]

I don't mean the other wagon, Jane. Look behind those rocks, just to the right of the mesquite.

[Jane Bruce]

Red, there are three men there, and with three rifles. Red, you don't think that.

[Narrator]

I don't know, but I sure aim to wait and find out.

[Jane Bruce]

Look, Red, the driver of Dad's wagon is pulling up and those other men haven't made a move.

[Narrator]

Sure looks like there's some soil rot in the fence pool somewhere. Look, the driver's calling to those men. See? They're coming out to meet the freight wagon.

[Jane Bruce]

Well, then it's obviously not a holdup. Should we ride down and find out who they are?

[Narrator]

You stay here, Jane. It looks to me like there's a cinch loo somewhere, and I'm going to find it. Come on, Thunder. Get going, Thunder.

[Red Ryder]

Don't forget, folks, another thrilling adventure of Red Rider comes to you next Tuesday at the same time on this same station. Tell your friends about this exciting new radio program. They'll enjoy it, too. And for real entertainment, you can't beat the adventures of Red Rider. So remember, tune in your Blue Network station every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday night at 7:30. Then settle back in your chair for a half hour of thrills, excitement and action with the West's foremost fighting man, Red Rider. That mysterious, startled freight wagon on the road to Devil's Hole. The wagon owned by Jane Bruce's father. What does it mean? And why was the load transferred to another wagon with armed men standing about? Red Rider has made it his business to find out. And you'll find out too, if you join him. Listen to the next exciting half hour with Red Rider, America's famous fighting cowboy, on this station next Tuesday night at 7:30. Red Rider came to you from Hollywood. This is the Blue Network.

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