Sergeant Preston 51-06-16 Ep0885 Ghost Of Louie Lachine

Summary

Episode Summary: Sergeant Preston 51-06-16 Ep0885 Ghost Of Louie Lachine

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio
Episode Title: Sergeant Preston 51-06-16 Ep0885 Ghost Of Louie Lachine
Release Date: June 6, 2025

---

Introduction

In this thrilling installment of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, listeners are taken deep into the frigid wilderness of the Yukon during the famed gold rush era. Sergeant Preston, a steadfast member of the Northwest Mounted Police, along with his remarkable lead dog, Yukon King, confronts both natural and supernatural challenges. This episode, titled Ghost Of Louie Lachine, masterfully blends elements of mystery, suspense, and drama, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as secrets unravel in the snowy expanse.

---

Plot Overview

Arrival at Pine Ridge

The episode commences with Sergeant Preston and Yukon King navigating the harsh terrains of the Yukon, en route to the settlement of Pine Ridge. Their journey along the Otter Creek trail is abruptly interrupted when a young boy, Buddy Woking, approaches them near a miner's cabin. At [01:44], Buddy expresses concern over his grandfather, Gideon Fowler, who claims to have witnessed a ghost—the spirit of his deceased partner, Louis Lachine.

Gideon Fowler's Revelation

Upon reaching Gideon Fowler's cabin, Sergeant Preston and Buddy are greeted by Beth Ryan, a local waitress. [05:11] Gideon shares the unsettling experience of seeing Louie's ghost, reigniting old wounds and suspicions surrounding his partner's mysterious drowning two years prior. As the conversation unfolds, it's revealed that Gideon harbors deep-seated guilt over Louis's death, partly due to a strained partnership and a contentious claim on Auto Creek.

New Suspects and Tensions Rise

As Sergeant Preston delves deeper, he identifies potential suspects who might benefit from Gideon's demise. Among them are Evan Drake, Gideon's struggling former partner with acting ties, Virgil Fowler, Gideon's nephew, and Beth Ryan. [16:21] The investigation takes a tense turn when Sergeant Preston confronts Evan Drake about his suspicious activities. Drake's evasiveness and desperate financial situation cast shadows over his innocence.

The Ghostly Encounter

Later that evening, Virgil Fowler's impersonation of Louis Lachine's ghost leads to a near-tragic encounter. At [11:30], Gideon is entranced by the apparition, resulting in him being led into a blizzard where he nearly succumbs to exposure. Sergeant Preston's quick intervention saves Gideon, but suspicions point directly at Virgil, now revealed as the instigator behind the ghostly deception.

Climactic Confrontation

The tension culminates in a dramatic showdown at Gideon's cabin. [24:17] Virgil confronts Gideon with murderous intent, attempting to silence him to secure the inheritance. Sergeant Preston intervenes just in time, and with the help of Yukon King, Virgil is subdued. The revelation shocks Gideon and Buddy, leading to the arrest of Evan Drake and the implication of Virgil in the scheme.

Resolution and Closure

With the culprits apprehended, Beth Ryan arrives to nurse Gideon back to health. A heartwarming resolution sees Beth and Evan Drake preparing for their honeymoon, uniting the community and restoring peace to Pine Ridge. [28:12] Gideon warmly welcomes Buddy into his life, symbolizing healing and the forging of new familial bonds.

---

Key Characters

• Sergeant Preston: The honorable and determined leader of the Northwest Mounted Police, committed to maintaining law and order in the Yukon.

• Yukon King: Sergeant Preston's loyal and intelligent lead dog, instrumental in tracking and subduing suspects.

• Gideon Fowler: An elderly miner burdened by guilt over his late partner's death, whose encounter with a ghost sets off the central mystery.

• Buddy Woking: Gideon's young ward, whose curiosity and bravery assist Sergeant Preston in uncovering the truth.

• Virgil Fowler: Gideon's nephew, revealed to be the antagonist orchestrating the ghostly deceptions for personal gain.

• Evan Drake: A financially troubled former actor whose suspicious behavior places him under Sergeant Preston's scrutiny.

• Beth Ryan: A waitress from Dawson City whose kindness and resourcefulness aid in resolving the conflict.

---

Notable Quotes

• Buddy Woking (02:00): "Do you believe in ghosts?"

• Gideon Fowler (06:22): "I've taken more than 30,000 in gold out of these Diggings."

• Sergeant Preston (15:03): "From what you've told me, I think someone's deliberately trying to cause your death."

• Virgil Fowler (24:25): "Sergeant Preston hasn't left me any choice. After tonight, there'll be someone with you all the time."

• Sergeant Preston (26:13): "I had an idea you'd convict yourself if you thought this was your last chance to do away with your uncle."

---

Themes and Insights

Guilt and Redemption

Gideon Fowler's struggle with guilt over Louis Lachine's death serves as a driving force in the narrative. His internal conflict highlights themes of responsibility and the quest for redemption, which are crucial in motivating his interactions and decisions throughout the episode.

Deception and Trust

The episode delves into the complexities of trust within a tight-knit community. Characters like Virgil Drake embody deception, exploiting trust for personal gain. Sergeant Preston's role emphasizes the importance of vigilance and integrity in uncovering the truth.

The Supernatural vs. Reality

The ghostly apparitions serve as a metaphor for unresolved issues and the haunting nature of past mistakes. The blending of supernatural elements with real-world motivations creates a suspenseful atmosphere that challenges both characters and listeners to discern fact from fiction.

Loyalty and Friendship

The unwavering loyalty between Sergeant Preston and Yukon King underscores the strength of their partnership. Their teamwork exemplifies trust and dedication, essential qualities that drive the resolution of the conflict.

---

Conclusion

Sergeant Preston 51-06-16 Ep0885 Ghost Of Louie Lachine is a compelling narrative that intertwines mystery, emotion, and action set against the rugged backdrop of the Yukon. Through its richly developed characters and intricate plot, the episode explores deep-seated themes of guilt, deception, and redemption. As Sergeant Preston unravels the mystery behind the ghostly sightings, listeners are treated to a story of courage, loyalty, and the enduring human spirit. This episode stands out as a testament to the golden age of radio drama, delivering an engaging and memorable experience for all who tune in.

Transcript

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me at flavors. Hookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Narrator]

The challenge of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the Northwest, blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers.

[Sergeant Preston]

On, King.

[Narrator]

On, you huskies. Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches. Back to the days of the gold rush with Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon King. As they meet the challenge of the Yukon. Sergeant Preston was driving his team along the Otter Creek trail on his way to the settlement of Pine Ridge. He had just come in sight of a small miner's cabin when he was hailed by a boy playing on the bank of the frozen creek.

[Gideon Fowler]

Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Buddy Woking.

[Gideon Fowler]

How are you?

[Buddy Woking]

Hi, Sergeant. Hi, King. Old Phil. Sergeant, I'm sure glad to see you.

[Sergeant Preston]

You look as though you've something on your mind, Buddy.

[Buddy Woking]

Yes, sir, I am. Do you believe in ghosts?

[Sergeant Preston]

Why, of course not. You haven't been seeing one, I hope.

[Buddy Woking]

No, sir. But Grandpa, I mean, Mr. Fowler thinks he did just the other night.

[Sergeant Preston]

You mean Gideon Fowler?

[Buddy Woking]

Yes, sir. He's not really my grandpa, but I wish he were.

[Sergeant Preston]

Tell me about it.

[Buddy Woking]

Well, I was visiting Mr. Fowler and we were all alone. And he is telling me a story about the old days in the territory.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Buddy Woking]

All of a sudden he gave a gasp and his face went awfully pale. And then he slumped over in his chair.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gideon has a weak heart.

[Buddy Woking]

Well, I tried to help, but finally he opened his eyes and told me to get his medicine off the shelf. And after a while, when he felt better, he told me he'd seen a ghost at the window.

[Sergeant Preston]

What made him think it was a ghost?

[Buddy Woking]

Because he said it had the face of his dead partner.

[Sergeant Preston]

Louis Lachine.

[Buddy Woking]

Yes, sir. He told me Mr. Lachine drowned two years ago.

[Sergeant Preston]

Buddy, what you've told me is interesting. I think I'll stop in and seek it in.

[Buddy Woking]

May I go with you, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

If your father says you may.

[Buddy Woking]

He's working on his Claim.

[Sergeant Preston]

Get on the sled, Buddy, and we'll go ask him.

[Gideon Fowler]

Hoop key.

[Buddy Woking]

Yes, sir.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, hun.

[Narrator]

King Hunter Husky, Buddy's father, gave his permission for Buddy to accompany the sergeant. And a short time later, the sergeant and Buddy arrived at Gideon Fowler's cabin, which was located farther along the creek.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hunking higher.

[Narrator]

Hunking.

[Buddy Woking]

Dolly. I hope Mr. Fowler is feeling better.

[Sergeant Preston]

So do I, Buddy.

[Buddy Woking]

Ever since he saw the ghost, the doctor made him stop working his claim.

[Narrator]

Oh, the door was opened by Beth Ryan, a pretty young girl who worked as a waitress in Dawson City.

[Beth Ryan]

Well, it's Sergeant Preston and Buddy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Beth.

[Beth Ryan]

Come on in. You too, King.

[Narrator]

Gideon Fowler was seated in a chair by the fireplace with a blanket over his knees.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, bless my soul. How are you, Sergeant? I see you brought young Buddy along, eh, Grandpa.

[Buddy Woking]

I mean, Mr. Crowler.

[Gideon Fowler]

Now you go right ahead and call me Grandpa. I'd like nothing better than to have you for a grandson, Buddy.

[Sergeant Preston]

I understand you've been feeling a little under the weather, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

I've been a mite poorly. Doc says I better watch this heart of mine or it may quit pumping on me one of these days.

[Beth Ryan]

Thank heavens he made you stop working your claim. It's about time you started taking things easy.

[Gideon Fowler]

Sure is nice to have someone like you fussing over me. You see, Beth's been bringing me some of her home cooked vittles from town almost every day.

[Beth Ryan]

After all, you're one of our best customers at the restaurant. Which reminds me, I better be getting back to town. I don't suppose you're going that way, are you, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Why, no, Beth. I'm on my way to Pine Ridge.

[Buddy Woking]

My dad will hitch up our team and take you Back to town, Ms. Beth.

[Beth Ryan]

Oh, that's all right, Buddy. I can walk back.

[Buddy Woking]

It's no trouble. He'll be glad.

[Gideon Fowler]

Yeah, very well. Oh, look at the blush.

[Beth Ryan]

Well, if you're sure he won't mind, Bud.

[Buddy Woking]

Oh, of course not. I'll walk back to our cabin with you.

[Beth Ryan]

All right. Just let me get my Parker.

[Buddy Woking]

I'll come back and see you later.

[Gideon Fowler]

Don't you forget now, Buddy. I'll be looking for you.

[Beth Ryan]

Goodbye, Mr. Fowler. Goodbye, sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Goodbye, Buddy.

[Gideon Fowler]

Goodbye. And thanks again for those visitors.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gideon, what's this I hear about you seeing a ghost?

[Gideon Fowler]

So you've heard about that, have you?

[Sergeant Preston]

Spotty told me.

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, it's true. And that's not the only time either.

[Sergeant Preston]

You've seen this ghost before?

[Gideon Fowler]

Yep. About a week ago was the first time. Scared the living daylights out of me.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sure it wasn't just your imagination?

[Gideon Fowler]

Your doggone right, I'm sure. It was. My dead partner, Louis Lachine. Take a look at that picture there on the table.

[Sergeant Preston]

This one?

[Gideon Fowler]

That's right. Louis and I had that photograph taken down in Skagway. And that's just how Louie's ghost looked. Fur cap, big bushy mustache, and a black patch across his left eye, Just like in that picture. And his face was all ghastly white. By criminally, sergeant, it was horrible.

[Sergeant Preston]

Louie was drowned on the Yukon river, wasn't he?

[Gideon Fowler]

That's right. Two years ago.

[Sergeant Preston]

They'd been friends a long time, hadn't you?

[Gideon Fowler]

Ever since 74. We teamed up down on the Fraser river in British Columbia. Louis was a big French Canadian. The best partner a man ever had.

[Sergeant Preston]

Still blame yourself for his death?

[Gideon Fowler]

Oh, shucks, I. I can't help it, sergeant. Louis and I, we always hit it all fine together. Right up to the time we staked this claim on auto creek. Then we kind of started getting on each other's nerves.

[Sergeant Preston]

Cabin fever?

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, I reckon so. Anyway, we finally had a big bus stop. We kept the cards to see who'd get the claim. And I won. So Louie took the team and lit out by himself. The ice was starting to thaw on the river, and Louie tried to cross. But he hit a bad spot, went through and drowned. Huskies gnaw.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's no reason to blame yourself, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

I feel it wouldn't have happened if we hadn't had that quarrel. Worst of it was, right after Louis died, The claims started to pay off in a big way. I've taken more than 30,000 in gold out of these Diggins.

[Sergeant Preston]

How many people know this story?

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, most of my friends, I reckon. I talk about it sometimes when I'm feeling bad. Why?

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, I wonder if someone's playing a trick on you.

[Gideon Fowler]

That ghost who is real, Sergeant, I tell you, I saw it with my own eyes.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, in any case, I wish you weren't staying here alone, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

I'm not alone. My nephew's staying with me.

[Sergeant Preston]

Your nephew?

[Gideon Fowler]

Virgil Fowler, his name is. Used to work for the Yukon commercial company. But he came here to live with me a couple of weeks ago. Claimed I need looking after. Yeah, the fact is, I think he got fired.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where is he now?

[Gideon Fowler]

He took the team up the valley of ways to get some firewood.

[Evan Drake]

Huh.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, King and I better be on our way. Now, you take it easy, Gideon. And don't continue blaming yourself for what happened to your partner.

[Gideon Fowler]

I'll try. Nutty sure was nice of you to stop. Reckon there must be Virgil now. Back sooner than I expected. Well, hello there, Virgil. Lish is a good friend of mine. Sergeant Preston. The Martyrs.

[Virgil Fowler]

Howdy, Sergeant Preston. I've heard a lot about you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Glad to know you.

[Virgil Fowler]

Take off your parka. I'll fix you a cup of coffee.

[Sergeant Preston]

No, thanks. King and I were just leaving.

[Gideon Fowler]

You figure on staying over at Pine Ridge a spell?

[Sergeant Preston]

No, we'll be coming back tonight. In the meantime, Gideon, take care of yourself.

[Gideon Fowler]

Yeah, don't worry about me. So long, Sergeant.

[Virgil Fowler]

Goodbye.

[Sergeant Preston]

Goodbye. Come along, King.

[Narrator]

Evan Drake had little to say as he drove Beth back to town on his sled. Beth remarked on his silence when they finally arrived at the restaurant.

[Evan Drake]

Holly ho. Holly ho. Here, let me help you out of the sled.

[Beth Ryan]

Thanks, Evan. It was awfully nice of you to bring me back to town.

[Evan Drake]

It was a pleasure.

[Beth Ryan]

You haven't had much to say for yourself.

[Evan Drake]

Well, I'll say this much, Beth. I haven't had much luck since I came to the Yukon. Meeting you is about the only good thing that's happened to me.

[Beth Ryan]

I'd never guess it from the way you've acted. You haven't exactly sought out my company.

[Evan Drake]

A man who's as near broke as I am has no business courting any girl.

[Beth Ryan]

Do you think women always judge a man by his bank account?

[Evan Drake]

I believe it's happened once or twice.

[Beth Ryan]

Money means nothing to me.

[Evan Drake]

Well, it does to me. I'm fed up with this business of trying to dig gold out of a worthless claim. And what's more, I intend to do something about it.

[Beth Ryan]

What do you mean?

[Evan Drake]

I mean. Well, never mind what I mean. But one of these days, I may not be so short of money. When that happens, I. I intend to ask you to marry me.

[Gideon Fowler]

Oh.

[Beth Ryan]

Well, I. I can't accept until you do ask me.

[Evan Drake]

Oh, that settles it. You just wait, Beth. Just wait. You may be hearing that proposal sooner than you think.

[Narrator]

That evening after supper, Virgil Fowler put on his parka. Gideon looked up in surprise.

[Gideon Fowler]

You going somewhere, Virgil?

[Virgil Fowler]

I figured I might make a trip to town tonight.

[Gideon Fowler]

The sky was looking mighty clouded over just before dark. If you ask me, it's fixing the snow.

[Virgil Fowler]

Little snow won't bother me.

[Gideon Fowler]

Suit yourself.

[Narrator]

Gideon was seated in his usual chair by the fireplace. For some time after his nephew had hitched up the chair team and driven away, the old man continued to sit, staring into the flames. Finally, his head nodded and he began to doze. Outside, the wind howled around the cabin. The snow began to come down Heavily. Presently, Gideon was awakened by a light, persistent tapping at the door.

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, come in. Come in.

[Narrator]

Suddenly, the old man's mouth dropped open in a choking gasp, and an icy chill ran down his spine. There in the open doorway stood a tall, mustachioed figure with a black patch over one eye.

[Gideon Fowler]

Who are you?

[Virgil Fowler]

Don't you recognize your old partner, Louie?

[Gideon Fowler]

Sure.

[Virgil Fowler]

I am Louie. Louis Lachine, back from the dead.

[Gideon Fowler]

Oh, no. It can't be. You are drowned.

[Virgil Fowler]

May we? I drown thanks to you.

[Gideon Fowler]

No, no.

[Virgil Fowler]

And now you must help me. Help me to find rest.

[Gideon Fowler]

Come.

[Virgil Fowler]

Come with me, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

My heart.

[Virgil Fowler]

Never mind your heart. Think of your dead partner who needs your help.

[Gideon Fowler]

Come. Yes, I'll come.

[Narrator]

Loving painfully, Gideon staggered to his feet. His face was deathly pale and he clutched his chest as a twinge of agony shot through him. But he was hypnotized by the ghostly figure in the doorway.

[Gideon Fowler]

Come.

[Virgil Fowler]

Come with me, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, I'm coming, Louis. I'm coming.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston was on his way back to Dawson City from his visit to Pine Ridge. He had just come in sight of Gideon Fowler's cabin on Otto Creek when the glow of light from within showed him that the cabin door was wide open in spite of the bitter weather. Wondering if something might be wrong, the sergeant decided to investigate.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, boy. Let's have a look inside. Well, that's strange. No one's here. Gideon was certainly in no shape to be out on a night like this.

[Narrator]

Going back to the doorway, the sergeant looked out. Almost obliterated by the falling snow, he could make out the faint traces of footprints leading away from the cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'd better find him, boy. We can't let the old man die.

[Narrator]

After lighting a lantern to enable him to follow the footprints through the snow, the sergeant gathered up Gideon's discarded blanket. He let King sniff it in order to get the old man scent, and then he started out with his team. The trail led up the hillside overlooking the creek. They hadn't gone far when a series of barks from King announced that he had found Gideon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hollow huskies holler hole.

[Narrator]

The old man was sprawled in the snow and showed no sign of life as King licked his face.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll try his pulse. He's alive, boy.

[Narrator]

Carrying the old man back to his sled, Sergeant Preston wrapped him in the blanket and hurried to the cabin. There he began working feverishly to revive him, and finally, Gideon's eyes flickered open.

[Gideon Fowler]

Sergeant Preston. Where am I?

[Sergeant Preston]

It's all right, Gideon. You're back in your cabin.

[Gideon Fowler]

The ghost. I saw Louie's ghost. Again.

[Sergeant Preston]

I had an idea something like that had happened. You feel like talking about it?

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes. Yes, but first, get me my medicine. It's over there on the shelf.

[Narrator]

After taking his medicine, the color began to return to the old man's cheeks. After he told his story, Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Said, gideon, from what you've told me, I think someone's deliberately trying to cause your death.

[Gideon Fowler]

Cause my death? I don't understand.

[Sergeant Preston]

You have a weak heart, Gideon. Whoever's in back of this scheme apparently figured that a series of shocks caused by seeing the ghost of your dead partner would eventually kill you. Tonight, when you didn't keel over, he decided to lead you out into the storm. Probably figured you'd die of exposure.

[Gideon Fowler]

But who would want to kill me?

[Sergeant Preston]

Have you ever made a will?

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice, and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they are. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 7002A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act, Take action to protect kids like me. @ flavorshookorgonkids.org paid for by the campaign for tobacco free kids action fund.

[Gideon Fowler]

Sure, just recently.

[Sergeant Preston]

And the heir?

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, there's three of them. They come in for equal shares. One is my nephew Virgil, One is little Buddy Drake, and the other is Beth Ryan.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do they know the terms of your will?

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, I told them when I had it drawn up.

[Sergeant Preston]

And that gives us three possible suspects.

[Gideon Fowler]

Oh, now, that's crazy. Sergeant, I don't know about Virgil, but not Beth Ryan. And you sure can't suspect a young un like Buddy.

[Sergeant Preston]

What about his father, Evan Drake? I've heard his claim hasn't panned out. And he needs money. What's more, he used to be an actor. With a false mustache and a patch over one eye. It wouldn't be hard to impersonate Louie's ghost. He's probably seen that photograph there on the table.

[Gideon Fowler]

Holy mackerel. But what about Beth? You're not thinking she could have dressed up like Louis?

[Sergeant Preston]

I find it hard to suspect Beth, but remember, she has a brother. They might have planned the thing between them.

[Gideon Fowler]

Oh, go. I just can't believe it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gideon, in your condition, I don't like to leave you alone, but there's a chance King and I can track down this ghost. If not, I'd like to check on Evan Drake.

[Gideon Fowler]

You go to it, sergeant. Don't worry about me.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do you have a gun?

[Gideon Fowler]

It's sure in that table drawer there.

[Sergeant Preston]

I got it for you. There you are.

[Gideon Fowler]

What's the idea?

[Sergeant Preston]

If someone's plotting against your life, I don't want to leave you unprotected. I doubt if you'll have to use this gun, but keep it handy. All right, King. Let's go, boy.

[Narrator]

After leaving Gideon's cabin, sergeant Preston drove back up the hillside to the spot where he had found the old man. But by now, the rapidly falling snow had wiped out the last trace of footprints. The howling winds had completely dispersed the scent trail of the man who had impersonated the ghost. Finally, the sergeant gave up the search and headed his team toward Evan Drake's cabin. When he arrived at the cabin a short time later, he saw a light in the window.

[Sergeant Preston]

But.

[Evan Drake]

Sergeant Preston. Come on in.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thanks. You're up late, Evan.

[Evan Drake]

I. I couldn't sleep.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where's buddy?

[Evan Drake]

In the back room. He's asleep.

[Sergeant Preston]

Has he been sleeping long?

[Evan Drake]

Three or four hours. Why?

[Sergeant Preston]

You been here at the cabin all evening?

[Evan Drake]

Sure.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where's your Parker?

[Evan Drake]

Hanging up back there in the corner.

[Sergeant Preston]

If you haven't left the cabin, how does it happen? Your parka's wet?

[Evan Drake]

Well, I. I went out back to feed the dogs.

[Sergeant Preston]

This time of night? Sorry, Evan. That won't do. From the condition of this Parker, you must have been outdoors in the blizzard for quite a while. Say.

[Evan Drake]

For Pete's sake, why all the questions? What's this all about?

[Sergeant Preston]

Evan, I'll give you one more chance to tell me the truth. Where did you go this evening?

[Evan Drake]

I. I can't tell you. It's none of your business.

[Sergeant Preston]

I warn you, you're under suspicion of attempted murder. Murder? That's right. Tonight someone tried to kill Gideon Fowler by posing as the ghost of his dead partner. Since you can't account for your whereabouts, and since you'd profit by his death, I'll have to arrest you.

[Evan Drake]

Oh, no. Wait a minute, sergeant. I had no idea. I'll tell you where I was.

[Sergeant Preston]

Go ahead.

[Evan Drake]

I need money badly. This afternoon I get feeling desperate. So I decided to hold up the nearest roadhouse tonight. After buddy went to sleep, I started out. But after I got there, I. I just couldn't go through with it. So I turned around and came home.

[Sergeant Preston]

You think a jury would accept that story?

[Evan Drake]

But it's the truth.

[Sergeant Preston]

11 I'm inclined to believe you, but I can't take any chances. For the time being, I'll have to take you into custody.

[Evan Drake]

All right. It's my own fault. What about Buddy?

[Sergeant Preston]

We can't leave him here alone. He'll have to come with us.

[Evan Drake]

All right, Sergeant. I'll wake the boy.

[Narrator]

Before leaving, Sergeant Preston made a thorough search of the cabin, but found no trace of the Ghost's disguise. Then he ordered Evan to hitch his team and the group started out. Instead of heading straight for Dawson City, the sergeant first returned to Gideon Fowler's cabin to make sure the old man was all right. Gideon was taken back when he saw Buddy's tearful face and heard the sergeant's story.

[Gideon Fowler]

Credit, Sergeant. I don't know what to make Evan.

[Buddy Woking]

Dad wouldn't do anything wrong, Sergeant Preston. I know he wouldn't. Won't you please believe me?

[Evan Drake]

Steady, son.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm sorry, Buddy. If your father's innocent, he has nothing to fear. Evan, I'm going to ask you and Buddy to wait outside for the next few minutes. I have something to discuss with Gideon.

[Evan Drake]

All right. Come along, son.

[Sergeant Preston]

Go with him, King. Guard boy.

[Evan Drake]

Don't worry, Sergeant. I'll not run away.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm sure you won't, Evan. With King watching you.

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, now that they've gone, Sergeant, what is it you wanted to talk to me about, Gideon?

[Sergeant Preston]

I have a plan that may clear up this whole thing. But I'll need your help.

[Gideon Fowler]

I'll do anything I can. What do you have in mind?

[Sergeant Preston]

Now here's my idea. Suppose I would.

[Narrator]

Gideon listened earnestly while Sergeant Preston explained his plan. When the Mountie was through speaking, the old man exclaimed.

[Gideon Fowler]

You're going to charge and I'm all for it. I reckon that ought to prove things one way or the other.

[Sergeant Preston]

How soon do you think your nephew will come back from town?

[Gideon Fowler]

He sure to be been back long ago. Must be making the rounds of all the cafes.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll wait for him. Gideon.

[Narrator]

A short time later, Virgil Fowler entered the cabin.

[Virgil Fowler]

Looks like this is your night for visitors, Uncle. Kid Drake and his little boy outside. And Sergeant Preston inside. Oh, what the dick is going on?

[Gideon Fowler]

There's been plenty going on. What kept you, Salid?

[Virgil Fowler]

I stuck around town hoping the blizzard would die down. But it didn't, so I came back anyway.

[Sergeant Preston]

Your uncle nearly lost his life tonight.

[Virgil Fowler]

What's that?

[Sergeant Preston]

The ghost of Louis Lachine made another appearance.

[Virgil Fowler]

That ghost again? Are you sure you're not just seeing. Seeing?

[Sergeant Preston]

Uncle Gibbs, he wasn't just seeing things. Gideon's been the victim of a definite plot. The so called ghost lured him outdoors and left him to die of exposure.

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, and I reckon I Would have died too, if the sergeant hadn't found me.

[Virgil Fowler]

Great Scott. Have you any idea who's back of the scheme?

[Gideon Fowler]

Sergeant Preston thinks it may be Evan Drake.

[Virgil Fowler]

Drake?

[Sergeant Preston]

He can't account for his whereabouts tonight. And he stands to profit through Buddy by your uncle's death.

[Virgil Fowler]

I'll be hanged. I never thought of that, Virgil.

[Sergeant Preston]

Your uncle's a mighty sick man, I don't wonder. As soon as I get back to town, I'm going to send someone out here to nurse him.

[Virgil Fowler]

You think that's necessary?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, I do. If it weren't for this blizzard, I'd take him to the hospital tonight. And there's one other precaution I think we'd better take.

[Gideon Fowler]

What's that, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

First thing tomorrow, I suggest you send for your lawyer and change your will. Add a clause specifying that payment be withheld if there's any reason to believe your death is caused by some unusual shock.

[Virgil Fowler]

What's the reason for that, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

It may not be possible to prove a case against Drake, but we can remove any temptation for a repeat performance by the ghost.

[Gideon Fowler]

I'll do as you say, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, Gideon. I'll be on my way with Evan and Buddy. In the meantime, Virgil, take good care of your uncle.

[Virgil Fowler]

Yes, I'll certainly do that, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

For some time after Sergeant Preston and the others had gone, Virgil Fowler sat brooding by the fireplace. He seemed to be turning something over in his mind. Finally, his uncle remarked.

[Gideon Fowler]

Wait, Sunday, don't you put out the lamp and turn in.

[Virgil Fowler]

You're forgetting something, Uncle Gid. Sergeant Preston said he was going to send someone out from town to look after you.

[Gideon Fowler]

What of it? I reckon that don't mean you have to sit up all hours of the night waiting.

[Virgil Fowler]

Yes, I think maybe you're right, Uncle Gid. I'd better not wait any longer.

[Gideon Fowler]

What do you mean?

[Virgil Fowler]

Just what I said.

[Narrator]

Virgil got up from his chair. There was a strange glint in his eye as he approached his uncle's bunk.

[Gideon Fowler]

What in the dickens is wrong with you? What are you looking at me that way for?

[Virgil Fowler]

Fact is, I'm going to have to kill you.

[Gideon Fowler]

Kill me? What are you talking about?

[Virgil Fowler]

Sergeant Preston hasn't left me any choice. After tonight, there'll be someone with you all the time. And on top of that, you'll be changing your will tomorrow. So if I want to collect that inheritance, I'd better settle things right now.

[Gideon Fowler]

For the love of heaven, words. Have you gone crazy?

[Virgil Fowler]

Crazy? Why, no, Uncle Gid. Far from it. You see, I'm the one who Impersonated Louis Lachine's ghost.

[Sergeant Preston]

You.

[Virgil Fowler]

That's right.

[Evan Drake]

Come.

[Virgil Fowler]

Come with me, Gideon.

[Gideon Fowler]

Jupiter. Then it was you all along.

[Virgil Fowler]

Sure, with that weak heart of yours and your bad conscience over Louis Lachine. I didn't think it would take much spooking to hurry things along. But you're a tough old buzzard, Uncle Gid. A lot tougher than I figured. So I'll have to take stronger measures.

[Gideon Fowler]

What are you aiming to do?

[Virgil Fowler]

Hold a pillow over your head? You'll struggle a bit, but after a while you'll drift off and that'll be the end of it.

[Gideon Fowler]

No, no, you'll never get away with it, Verge.

[Virgil Fowler]

I think I shall. After all, you've been through a bad time tonight. Your heart just couldn't stand the strain. And as for that ghost business, I imagine Preston will pin that on Drake.

[Gideon Fowler]

No, don't do it, Verge.

[Virgil Fowler]

Sorry, but I have to.

[Sergeant Preston]

Set your hands up, Father.

[Virgil Fowler]

Preston, turn around.

[Sergeant Preston]

Move away from your uncle.

[Virgil Fowler]

All right, you got me, Preston.

[Narrator]

As Virgil turned, his eye fell on his uncle's revolver lying on the floor beside the bunk. The table was standing close by, within easy reach. Virgil's mind worked fast. Suddenly he kicked over the table and dropped to the floor. The sergeant had ducked aside from his exposed position in the doorway just in time to avoid Virgil's bullets. But King, who was already inside the room, moved in a different direction.

[Virgil Fowler]

Throw down your gun, Preston, or I'll kill the old man.

[Narrator]

Virgil's gun went off, but it plowed harmlessly into the wall as King's attack pinned him to the floor. The great dog gripped his gun arm.

[Gideon Fowler]

Ow. Get him away from me.

[Sergeant Preston]

I have his gun. On guard, boy. You all right, Gideon?

[Gideon Fowler]

Yes, sure, I'm all right, dad.

[Narrator]

Reddit.

[Gideon Fowler]

I wasn't much help to you, but I saw King closing in and I figured he could handle things better than I could.

[Sergeant Preston]

You did the right thing by staying out of it. I never would have gone through with my plan if I'd known there'd be this much excitement.

[Gideon Fowler]

Don't worry about me. The main thing is your plan worked. You trapped this poor cat nephew of mine.

[Virgil Fowler]

You mean this whole setup was just part of a schem?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right. I had an idea you'd convict yourself if you thought this was your last chance to do away with your uncle.

[Evan Drake]

May, Buddy and I come in now, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Come ahead, Evan. I'll handcuff Virgil and then we'll take him back to town.

[Narrator]

Evan and Buddy stayed at Gideon's cabin until the sergeant could send Someone from town to take care of the old man. Dawn was breaking and Buddy was dozing on his father's lap when they heard a dog team stop outside the cabin. A moment later, the door opens.

[Evan Drake]

Beth.

[Beth Ryan]

Hello, Evan. Hello, Mr. Fin.

[Gideon Fowler]

So this is a person you brought back to nurse me, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Think she'll do?

[Gideon Fowler]

You're doggone right she will. Take off your pocket bass.

[Evan Drake]

I suppose the sergeant's told you all about what happened last night.

[Sergeant Preston]

Beth understands, and so do I. She told me about your conversation. Just don't get any more ideas about breaking the law.

[Beth Ryan]

I'll see to that personally, sergeant.

[Evan Drake]

Well, does that mean what I think it means?

[Beth Ryan]

We'll discuss that later.

[Gideon Fowler]

You hear that, sergeant?

[Narrator]

Dead red.

[Gideon Fowler]

Look at the two of them. Hey, buddy, you come on over here to me.

[Buddy Woking]

Yes, sir.

[Gideon Fowler]

How would you like to have me for your grandpa? Your real grandpa?

[Buddy Woking]

My real grandpa? Oh, golly, I'd like that fine.

[Gideon Fowler]

Well, in that case, I reckon maybe you and your PA better move in here with me. I'm getting too old to work my claim, so I'll let him take over for me.

[Evan Drake]

Do you mean that?

[Gideon Fowler]

Of course you mean it.

[Evan Drake]

Golly, I. Oh, wait. I'm afraid we'll not be able to accept your offer. At least not for a while yet.

[Gideon Fowler]

Why not?

[Evan Drake]

First, there's a little matter of a honeymoon for Beth and me.

[Gideon Fowler]

A honeymoon? Why, Sunday? You're right. I was forgetting all about that.

[Buddy Woking]

Oh, gosh, dad, does that mean.

[Beth Ryan]

It means, Buddy, that from now on, you'll not only have a new grandpa, you'll also have a new mother.

[Buddy Woking]

Aw, gee whiz, that's wonderful. Then from now on, we'll all be together.

[Evan Drake]

Yes, that's right, son. All four of us.

[Gideon Fowler]

And there's a man we have to thank for it. Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Forget the thanks, Gideon. As far as King and I are concerned, this case is closed.

[Narrator]

In our next adventure, in the cabin of a murdered sourdough, Sergeant Preston stands facing two killers, one of whom holds a gun at the back of Preston's friend, the constable.

[Evan Drake]

All right, sergeant. I got a gun at the constable's back.

[Sergeant Preston]

You won't get away with this.

[Evan Drake]

Drop your gun, sergeant. Well, plug the constable. Drop it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Very well.

[Evan Drake]

Bullets in both you mounties before we head for the border.

[Narrator]

Forced to drop his gun to save the life of his friend, Sergeant Preston finds that they're both to be victims of the two killers. Be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of the Challenge of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle Produced by Trendle Campbell Enterprises, directed by Fred Flowerday and supervised by Charles D. Livingston. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. The challenge of the Yukon is brought to you every Saturday. And this is J. Michael wishing you goodbye and good luck until our next adventure. This is the Mutual broadcasting system.

[Teen Advocate]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, if I try this once, it won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually, it becomes a problem. It time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.