Sergeant Preston - Return To Danger - Aired 09-14-1954

Summary

---

Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Sergeant Preston – "Return To Danger" (Aired 09-14-1954)

Published: July 31, 2026

---

Episode Overview

This episode of Harold’s Old Time Radio features a classic adventure from Sergeant Preston of the Yukon: “Return to Danger.” Set during the Klondike Gold Rush, the story brings out the rugged heroism of Sergeant Preston, his loyal dog King, and the steadfast Royal Canadian Mounted Police as they face would-be escapees and criminal plots in the wild Yukon. The episode weaves danger, suspense, and heartwarming moments, capturing the spirit and nostalgia of golden age radio.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Sergeant Preston Returns from Leave

• Setting: White Pass, near Skagway, Alaska, during the Gold Rush.
• Story Begins: Sergeant Preston is returning from his vacation in San Francisco, where instead of resting, he tracked down wanted criminal Matt Shane.
• Assignment: Constable Downey is tasked by the Inspector to receive Preston and the prisoner in Skagway, American territory, with the added concern that Shane has friends who might try to interfere.
  • "Sergeant Preston is returning from his leave. He'll arrive in Skagway tomorrow morning on the city of Portland." – Inspector ([03:16])
  • King, Preston’s loyal husky, is brought along to reunite with his master after their longest-ever separation.

---

2. Villains Lay Their Plans

• In Skagway: Criminals Slick Daniels, Bart Nielsen, and Dirk Gordon are plotting to spring Shane. Gordon is aboard the ship as a crew member, planning to signal his cohorts when the time is right.
  • “We’ll take care of the Sergeant as soon as he steps off the gangplank. I’ve got a fast motorboat a few piers down. We’ll get Matt to it and head for Juneau... ready to set sail for Tahiti.” – Marshal ([07:31])
• Subterfuge: Downey, seeking the town marshal for permission to carry his weapon, is ambushed in a café by Bart Nielsen and Slick Daniels (who is taking a bribe to help the escape).

---

3. Constable Downey Attacked

• Bar Brawl: Downey is insulted and provoked for wearing his Mountie uniform, leading to a fight. He’s knocked out and later taken prisoner by the gang, setting the stage for their plan to unfold without police interference.
  • "But I do mind. You're not going anywhere. ... When I don't like a face, I change it to suit me. Like this." – Bart Nielsen ([09:37])

---

4. A Loyal Dog’s Instinct

• King’s Role: Locked in the stable, King senses Downey is in trouble. He escapes, picks up Downey’s scent, and tracks him to the cabin where he’s being held.
  • “There is a quality in a dog's love which provides him with a special instinct in everything concerning his master.” – Narrator ([18:18])

---

5. Danger Ashore: Medical Emergency and Ruse

• On the Ship: Sergeant Preston helps the ship’s captain tend to a gravely ill passenger, insisting on getting him to a doctor ashore in Skagway before docking.
  • “It's appendicitis. Acute. He should be operated on as quickly as possible.” – Sergeant Preston ([13:28])
• Dirk Gordon Enters: Gordon (Gordon is Dirk, as part of the plot) volunteers to help row Preston ashore, slyly angling to learn his plans and confirm that Preston is leaving Shane (the prisoner) behind.

---

6. Reunion and Realization

• Heartwarming Moment: King tracks Sergeant Preston down, leading to a joyful reunion:
  • “King. Oh, boy. Have you come all the way from White Pass to meet me? ... Have you missed him a lot, haven't you?” – Sergeant Preston ([19:07])
• But King insists—something is wrong. He leads Preston to find and rescue the captive Downey.

---

7. Race Against a Daring Escape

• Full Plot Uncovered: Downey, once freed, reveals the plan: the crooks aim to impersonate a Mountie, using Downey’s uniform to trick the ship’s captain and kidnap Matt Shane.
  • “Daniels is wearing my uniform. ... He and Gordon are going out to the ship in it. Daniels means to tell the captain that you’ve sent him for Matt.” – Constable Downey ([20:42])
• Sergeant Preston rushes to intervene but must first confront Bart Nielsen in a fistfight on the docks.
  • “Now that I’ve found you, it gives me a chance to even the score.” – Sergeant Preston ([21:37])

---

8. Showdown – Justice Prevails

• Aboard the City of Portland: The criminal duo’s ruse fails—the captain refuses to hand over the prisoner without written orders.

• On the Water: Preston borrows the spark plugs from the getaway motorboat just in time, disabling their escape.

  • “A motor needs spark plugs. Downey, I borrowed theirs.” – Sergeant Preston ([25:30])

• Shootout: The villains are cornered. Daniels is shot, the rest surrender, and Matt Shane is recaptured.

  • “Ahoy there. You’re under arrest. Get your hands up.” – Marshal ([25:41])

• Justice Served:

  • “Matt Shane will have no part in it. He’s behind bars. The crown prosecutor says he’ll pay for his crime.” – Sergeant Preston ([28:02])

---

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Inspector to Downey, about Preston:
  “His vacation turned into a busman’s holiday. He found Shane, and with the help of San Francisco police, Shane was taken into custody.” ([03:48])

• King’s Loyalty:
  “Somehow he knew that his friend, Constable Downey, was in trouble... At that moment, the sergeant... knocked at the door of the captain’s cabin.” – Narrator ([12:21–13:06])

• Classic Heroism:
  “Let him try it. Come on, King.” – Sergeant Preston ([21:11])

• Cunning Tactic:
  “A motor needs spark plugs. Downey, I borrowed theirs.” – Sergeant Preston ([25:33])

• Conclusion:
  “We’re together again, and I have an idea we’ll be sharing a lot of experience, but there’s one sure thing… Matt Shane will have no part in it. He’s behind bars. … Our first case is closed.” – Sergeant Preston ([28:05])

---

Timestamps of Key Segments

• [03:11] – Inspector explains Preston’s return and Downey’s assignment
• [06:16] – Downey reassures King about seeing Preston
• [07:01] – Villains plot in Skagway café
• [09:14] – Downey attacked and knocked out
• [12:21] – King awakens, senses trouble, and begins tracking
• [13:06] – Preston learns of the medical emergency on board
• [19:02] – King reunites with Preston, insists on following him
• [20:02] – Downey rescued; reveals the escape plot
• [21:27] – Preston’s fight with Bart Nielsen at the docks
• [23:14]–[24:06] – Villains attempt to get the prisoner from the captain
• [25:19] – On the water, chase and confrontation
• [28:05] – Preston’s closing monologue; justice concludes

---

Tone & Style

• Language: Lean, heroic, and suspenseful.
• Atmosphere: Spirited, with moments of camaraderie and nostalgia, especially around the bond between Preston and King.
• Classic Americana: The dialogue, dramatic narration, and pacing preserve the golden age radio feel.

---

For Listeners New and Old

Whether a fan of classic radio or a newcomer, this episode delivers quintessential Yukon adventure—featuring bravery, loyalty, tight plotting, and the enduring appeal of Sergeant Preston and King in the service of justice.

---

Transcript

[SpinQuest Announcer]

Forget whatever plans you have this weekend because you're staying at home and playing on spinquest. And there's never been a better time to sign up than right now. New users get $30 coin packs for just $10. All the table games you love with hundreds of slot games and real cash Prizes. That's at spinquest.com S P I N

[SpinQuest Legal Disclaimer]

Q U-E-S-T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Narrator]

Now as gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild northwest, Quaker popped wheat and Quaker popped rice, the breakfast cereal. Shot from gun present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King Sergeant, the swiftest and strongest lead dog of the northwest breaking the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers.

[Slick Daniels]

I'm king on you huskies.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gold.

[Narrator]

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 Quaker popped wheat and Quaker puffed rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker puff tweet. It's neat. And when you hear the shootin you're darn tootin that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns. Well fellas and girls, Sergeant Preston, Yukon king and all of us want to welcome you back. Hope you had a good vacation and are all set to hear some thrilling tales of the gold rush days in the rugged Yukon. And say, the more you hear about the great northwest Monty, Sergeant Preston and his strength and stamina, the more you want to be like him. And here's a tip. Eat a good breakfast every morning. Be sure to have a heapin bowl full of delicious crisp Quaker puffed wheat or rice. Top it with milk and sliced bananas or other fruit and boy oh boy, you'll feel like you can take on any desperado in the Yukon. Start tomorrow morning to eat the one shot from guns. Swell tasting Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice. Late one afternoon in September, Constable Downey entered the office of the inspector at the Northwest Mounted Police post located in White Pass, the gateway to the Yukon.

[Constable Downey]

You sent for me, sir?

[Inspector]

Yes, Constable Downey. I have an assignment for you.

[Constable Downey]

Yes, sir.

[Inspector]

Sergeant Preston is returning from his leave. He'll arrive in Skagway tomorrow morning on the city of Portland.

[Constable Downey]

It'll be good to have him back.

[Inspector]

It will indeed Take two extra horses with you. One for the sergeant. His own, of course, Rex. And another for the prisoner he's bringing back from San Francisco.

[Constable Downey]

Prisoner?

[Inspector]

Matt Shane.

[Constable Downey]

Shane? He's wanted for the Crawford murder in Dawson.

[Inspector]

Exactly. The sergeant was visiting friends in San Francisco, and he had a hunch that Shane might be found there. So he couldn't resist the temptation of going to work.

[Constable Downey]

Well, that doesn't surprise me.

[Inspector]

His vacation turned into a busman's holiday. He started looking for Shane, found him, and with the help of the San Francisco police, Shane was taken into custody.

[Slick Daniels]

Good.

[Inspector]

There was an extradition hearing, and now the sergeant is bringing him back here for trial. Now, about tomorrow, Donnie.

[Constable Downey]

Yes, sir.

[Inspector]

As I told you, the sergeant's ship is docking at Skagway. That's only a few miles from here at the foot of the pass. But it's American territory, and we have no authority there. You'll have to get permission from the town marshal to carry a gun.

[Constable Downey]

Yes, sir.

[Inspector]

You may need it. The marshal's finding it difficult to preserve law and order. Shane has friends in Skagway. There may be trouble getting him from the ship up here.

[Constable Downey]

We'll be on the lookout for it.

[Inspector]

Well, I'd suggest that you leave at once and spend the night in one of the hotels near the harbor. The ship's due in at daybreak.

[Constable Downey]

Very well. Inspector, I wonder if I might take someone else with me.

[Inspector]

I can't spare another man.

[Constable Downey]

I'm not a man. I was thinking of King, the sergeant's dog. Oh, I'm sure you've noticed him, sir. He's grieving. This has been the longest he and the sergeant have ever been separated. And, well, have you noticed his eyes?

[Inspector]

Indeed I have.

[Constable Downey]

It would be a shame to delay his reunion with the sergeant any longer than was necessary.

[Inspector]

I agree. Downey, take him with you.

[Constable Downey]

Thank you, sir.

[Narrator]

During the summer, King had accompanied Downey on several trips. And when he saw the constable leading Rex from his stall, he raced toward them.

[Constable Downey]

Well, hello, King. I've been looking for you. There's good news, boy. The sergeant's coming home.

[Narrator]

King understood his master's name and the word home. In spite of the evidence of sight and scent, a wild hope took possession of him. Could it be the sergeant was somewhere around? He looked to the right and left. Then he whirled and ran to the end of the stable yard, looking down the trail that led to Skagway and the sea, the direction in which the sergeant had disappeared three months before. There was no sign of him. The constable called to him Come back here, King. King trotted back, his eyes intent on the constable's face, trying hard to understand.

[Constable Downey]

He isn't here yet, King, but he will be soon, and we're going down to Skagway to meet him. You'll see him tomorrow. Yes, boy, I know. You've missed him a lot, haven't you?

[Narrator]

The constable reached Skagway at 9 o' clock that evening. There was room for his horses in the stable at the rear of his hotel, and he left King there with Rex. Then he started out to find the town marshal in order to get permission to carry a gun the following day. But Skagway's only lawman was not in his office, and Downey was told that he was making a tour of the waterfront cafes. At a corner table in one of them, Slick Daniels and Bart Nielsen, a brute of a man, were talking in guarded tones.

[Slick Daniels]

Well, go on, Slick. I'm always interested in earning $500.

[Marshal]

Good. I got a letter from Dirk Gordon a week ago.

[Slick Daniels]

He's in Frisco.

[Marshal]

Yeah, Matt Shane was picked up there. Sergeant Preston's bringing him back here for trial.

[Slick Daniels]

That's a tough break.

[Marshal]

He's due to arrive here tomorrow morning in the city of Portland. Dirk will be on board, too. He's shipping as a member of the crew. He'll give us a signal when the sergeant's just about ready to bring Matt ashore.

[Slick Daniels]

And what happens?

[Marshal]

We'll take care of the sergeant as soon as he steps off the gangplank. I've got a fast motorboat a few piers down. We'll get Matt to it and head for Juneau. I've got a friend who owns a schooner there. He's all ready to set sail for Tahiti.

[Slick Daniels]

Oh, Just a few questions.

[Marshal]

All right.

[Slick Daniels]

Shoot. Who takes care of Sergeant Preston?

[Marshal]

I do.

[Slick Daniels]

You? How?

[Marshal]

With a gun.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh.

[Slick Daniels]

Then how do I earn my 500?

[Marshal]

There'll be a crowd on the dock. You're to make sure no one tries to stop Dirk and Matt and me from getting away.

[Slick Daniels]

Clear the road, hm?

[Marshal]

Yeah, that's the idea.

[Slick Daniels]

Don't you worry. Nobody will try to stop you with me around. When do I get paid?

[Marshal]

Dirk has the money. He'll pay you just before we leave in the motorboat. Or you can come to Juneau with us if you want to.

[Slick Daniels]

Yeah, that's what I'll do. Hey, it's Mary.

[Marshal]

Look who just walked in.

[Slick Daniels]

Mountie. What are you worried about? That isn't Preston.

[Marshal]

I know who it is. His name is Downey. My bets are he's here to meet the sergeant.

[Slick Daniels]

Sounds likely.

[Inspector]

It's bad.

[Marshal]

With two of them guarding Matt, it'll be a lot tougher to get him away.

[Sergeant Preston]

You.

[Slick Daniels]

You want to invest another hundred?

[Marshal]

What?

[Slick Daniels]

Give me another hundred and I'll put this red coat out of commission for you. Oh, never mind. Is it a deal?

[Marshal]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Preston]

You watch.

[Narrator]

Constable Downey shouldered his way through the crowd in the cafe, looking for the marshal. When he failed to find him, he started back toward the door, but Bart Nielsen stepped in front of him.

[Slick Daniels]

Where do you think you're going?

[Constable Downey]

I'm leaving.

[Slick Daniels]

What's the matter? Don't you like our company?

[Constable Downey]

I'm looking for the marshal. He isn't here, so I'm leaving.

[Slick Daniels]

What's the idea of wearing that uniform down here?

[Constable Downey]

Your government doesn't object to my wearing it.

[Slick Daniels]

Well, I don't see eye to eye with my government on a lot of things. I don't like your uniform and I don't like your face.

[Constable Downey]

If you don't mind, I'm leaving.

[Slick Daniels]

But I do mind. You're not going anywhere. I don't like your face. When I don't like a face, I change it to suit me. Like this.

[Narrator]

Marks one that is left. The constable ducked, but the big man followed up his left with a right. I caught Downey on the side of the head. The constable crashed into a table and parked. Followed up his advantage. Downey evaded his first swing and, getting in close, drove lefts and rights to Bart's midsection. The big man was forced back against the bar. His hand reached out to steady himself and he touched a bottle. He grabbed it firmly and brought it down on the constable's head. The policeman dropped to the floor and in the next instant, the owner of the cafe was around the bar. Hey, what's the idea of hitting him with that bottle?

[Slick Daniels]

I thought he was going for his gun.

[Inspector]

He isn't even wearing a gun. How bad is he hurt?

[Slick Daniels]

He's all right. I didn't hit him hard. I ought to have the marshal put you in jail. A good customer like me. You wouldn't turn me in jail. Just because you're big, you think you

[Narrator]

can make trouble whenever you want to.

[Inspector]

Well, I'm sick and tired of it. I ought to call.

[Slick Daniels]

Will you keep your shirt on? I know that guy. Slick and I will take him to his hotel. We'll bring him around. I'll apologize. It'll be all right. There's no need for you to get mixed up in.

[Inspector]

All right, now get him out of here.

[Slick Daniels]

Get him out of here fast. Sure, sure.

[Captain]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Need any help?

[Captain]

Come on.

[Slick Daniels]

No, I can carry him. Come on.

[Sergeant Preston]

There.

[Slick Daniels]

Well, Should I dump him in the harbor?

[Marshal]

No, Someone's sure to be watching this. Take him to my cabin.

[Narrator]

Follow me.

[SpinQuest Announcer]

Hanging out at the pool is great. Relaxing and playing Vegas style games on my phone at the same time. Drink in one hand and a blackjack in the other. It's all at spinquest. Over a thousand games, including your favorite slots and table games. Be cool with this summer special. New players get $30 coin packs for

[SpinQuest Legal Disclaimer]

[e-mail] SpinQuest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Narrator]

All new drinks are now at McDonald's

[Captain]

with refreshers like the Strawberry Watermelon Refresher and the Mango Pineapple Refresher with Popping Boba. To crafted sodas like the Sprite Berry Blast with berry flavors and cold foam. Who knew ice cold drinks could be so fire six? All new drinks are here now at McDonald's.

[Narrator]

Refreshers contain caffeine. It was at that moment that King, who had been sleeping just outside Rex's stall, woke with a start. He jumped to his feet and ran to the door of the stable. It was padlocked from the outside. The stableman was having a late supper. There was no chance for King to get out until he returned. It was also at that moment that Sergeant Preston on board the city of Portland, knocked at the door of the captain's cabin.

[Captain]

Oh, it's you, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, Captain. I've just been talking with a mate. He tells me that we'll clear the entrance to Skagway harbor in less than half an hour.

[Captain]

That's correct.

[Sergeant Preston]

But that you don't intend to bring the ship into the docks until dawn.

[Captain]

It's too dark at night. We'll drop anchor just inside the harbor.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see. I just had another look at the man in 405.

[Captain]

How is he?

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm sure of it now. It's appendicitis. Acute. He should be operated on as quickly as possible.

[Captain]

And to save his life, we should dock the ship.

[Sergeant Preston]

Not if you believe it's dangerous, Captain. I can take him ashore in a small boat.

[Captain]

There is a doctor in Skagway who's qualified to operate.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, Dr. Carson, a good friend of mine.

[Slick Daniels]

Good.

[Captain]

I'll make arrangements for the Jacob's ladder to be dropped and the boat to be lowered as soon as we anchor.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thank you, Captain. I'll see that the patient is moved to the boat deck.

[Captain]

Fine.

[Slick Daniels]

Sergeant. I heard you Talking to the captain. I'm off duty now. I'll be glad to row you ashore and give you a hand with a sick man.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, thanks, but of course we'd have to get the captain's permission.

[Slick Daniels]

I'll fix that up right now.

[Sergeant Preston]

Very well. If you'll meet me down at 405.

[Slick Daniels]

Sure, sure thing. Will you be taking your prisoner ashore with you, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

No, he'll stay in the brig until the ship docks. I'll be coming back here tonight.

[Slick Daniels]

Nice, see.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, by the way, what's your name?

[Slick Daniels]

Gordon, Sergeant. They call me Dirk Gordon.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Do you know what I've got in my hands right now? I've got those new packages of Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice. The big packages with a gun on the front. And the reason I'm holding these packages is because I want to tell you fellas and girls something about the famous smiling Quaker man who's also on the front of these packages. You know, he's your guarantee that you're getting the original crisp fresh chopped from gun cereal.

[Slick Daniels]

My, but you're flattering.

[Narrator]

Yes, like I say. Who said that?

[Slick Daniels]

Why, I did.

[Captain]

You?

[Narrator]

Who are you?

[Slick Daniels]

Why, I'm the Quaker man on the package. You were just talking about me.

[Narrator]

Well, I was. But gee, I never expected you to say anything.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, I don't often though I like to.

[Narrator]

You do?

[Slick Daniels]

Yes, I like to say good morning to all the boys and girls and their families when they have me on their breakfast table.

[Narrator]

Well, that would be nice. But look, why not say hello now?

[Slick Daniels]

Fine idea. Hello, boys and girls. When you see me smiling at you from the package, that's my way of saying good morning and once more, I'm mighty glad to see you enjoy those breakfasts of Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice.

[Narrator]

Yes, fellas and girls, they're the world's tastiest breakfast. Delicious. Ready to serve. Wheat or rice. Shot from guns. Just remember to get these crisp, tender, king sized greens exploded up to eight times normal size. Look for the big packages with a smiling Quaker man on the front. He's your guarantee that you're getting the original. The one and only Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice. The breakfast cereal. Shot from gun. Now to continue. As soon as the city of Portland dropped anchor, Sergeant Preston, with Dirk Gordon's assistance, took the sick man from the ship to Dr. Carson's home in Skagway. Meanwhile, at the hotel where Constable Downey had registered, the stableman returned from his supper when he opened the stable door, King slipped out. Somehow he knew that his friend, Constable Downey was in trouble. He picked up the constable's scent, followed it to the marshal's office, down to the waterfront, then through a series of alleys to Slick Daniel's cabin. He circled it, growling low in his throat. At the doctor's home, the sergeant talked with Dirk Gordon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, Gordon. The doctor just decided to operate at once and he wants me to help with the anesthetic.

[Slick Daniels]

Oh, chloroform, huh? Yes, Sergeant. I. I can't stand the smell of that stuff.

[Narrator]

It'll be all right if I wait

[Slick Daniels]

for you down by the boat?

[Sergeant Preston]

That will be fine.

[Inspector]

I'll see you later.

[Narrator]

From the doctors, Dirk went directly to Slick Daniels cabin. King saw him enter and caught a glimpse of Constable Downey lying on the floor, bound and gagged. The door was closed and barred. King raised his nose to the sky and howled. But suddenly his despair changed to excitement. There is a quality in a dog's love which provides him with a special instinct in everything concerning his master. King had received no message from his senses, and yet he knew. And his heart was filled with the knowledge that the sergeant was somewhere in the town. He raced toward the main street. It took over half an hour of frantic searching before he located Dr. Carson's home. He threw himself against the door in the living room. With the operation successfully completed, the sergeant was putting on his tunic.

[Sergeant Preston]

King.

[Narrator]

King jumped up, and the sergeant hugged him close.

[Sergeant Preston]

King. Oh, boy. Have you come all the way from White Pass to meet me? Are you absent without leave?

[Narrator]

But in spite of his great joy at seeing his master once more, King didn't forget for a moment that the constable needed help. He pulled away from the sergeant and ran a few steps down the street, begging the sergeant to follow him.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's something wrong. All right, King. I'll go with you. Thanks for everything, Doctor. I'm on my way.

[Narrator]

When they reached Slick Daniel's cabin, there was no light showing. The sergeant knocked on the door. There was a faint sound inside. The sergeant opened the door. The moon showing for a moment through the clouds revealed Constable Downey, dressed in a blue shirt and dungarees, lying on the floor, bound and gagged.

[Sergeant Preston]

Downy, I'll get this gag out of your mouth first.

[Slick Daniels]

There.

[Constable Downey]

Thanks.

[Sergeant Preston]

What happened to you?

[Constable Downey]

I came down here to meet you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hold still while I cut these ropes.

[Constable Downey]

I was looking for the marshal to get permission to carry arms. A big bruiser called Nielsen picked a fight with me in a cafe and knocked me out he and a friend of his called Slick Daniels brought me here. They're planning to help Matt Shane escape there.

[Sergeant Preston]

Matt's still locked up in the brig aboard ship.

[Inspector]

I know.

[Constable Downey]

I know all about it.

[Sergeant Preston]

How?

[Constable Downey]

A sailor came here about half an hour ago from the ship. He said he'd come ashore with you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gordon?

[Constable Downey]

That's the name. A friend of Shane's. He's the one who's paying Daniels and Nielsen to arrange his escape.

[Sergeant Preston]

Paying Daniels and Nielsen? No wonder he was so anxious to come ashore with me. Have you any idea where they are now?

[Inspector]

Yes.

[Constable Downey]

I know just what they're planning.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let's have it.

[Constable Downey]

Daniels is wearing my uniform. He has a motor launch. He and Gordon are going out to the ship in it. Daniels means to tell the captain that you've sent him for Matt.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm getting back fast. You get the marshal and bring him out to the ship.

[Constable Downey]

I'd better come with you.

[Sergeant Preston]

No. We'll need the marshal's authority. And he has a motorboat. We'll need that, too. In case I don't get back in time to stop the captain from turning Shane over to Daniels. We'll have to follow them.

[Constable Downey]

All right, I'll get the marshal. But there's one more thing.

[Captain]

What?

[Constable Downey]

They left Nielsen on shore down at the waterfront. He has orders to stop you from going out to the ship.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let him try it. Come on, King.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, the sergeant and King reached the dock where the small boat from the steamer had been tied. A huge figure of a man stepped from the shadows to bar their way.

[Slick Daniels]

Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Huh? Oh, you're Nielsen.

[Slick Daniels]

Yeah. How come you know my name?

[Sergeant Preston]

The constable told me.

[Slick Daniels]

Oh, so you found him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. Now that I've found you, it gives me a chance to get even the score.

[Slick Daniels]

Come on, red coat. I'll beat you to a pulp. How's this for a starter?

[Narrator]

If Bart's first blow had landed, he might have made good his boast. But the sergeant dropped his shoulder and Bart missed. Then the sergeant went to work, and the fury of his attack drove Bart back from the dock until a warehouse cut off any further retreat. By that time, he could do no more than try to defend himself. His defense was futile. Driven by the need for speed, the sergeant dropped the big man's guard with a blow to the midsection. Then he crashed a right to the jaw. Bart sagged to the ground. A few seconds later, his hands were handcuffed behind him, and the sergeant issued an order.

[Sergeant Preston]

Stay here, King. Guard him.

[Narrator]

On board the city of Portland, Dirk Gordon had Taken Slick Daniels to the captain's cabin.

[Slick Daniels]

A northwest mounted policeman to see you, sir.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm coming.

[Marshal]

I'm Constable Daly, Captain. I have a message from Sergeant Preston.

[Captain]

How's the patient?

[Marshal]

Oh, he's all right. They're operating.

[Captain]

You sent a message?

[Marshal]

Yes. I'm to take his prisoner ashore. I believe you have the key to the brig.

[Captain]

That's true. I suppose you have a written order from the sergeant.

[Marshal]

No, I don't.

[Narrator]

I'd prefer one, but I have instructions.

[Captain]

I'm sure the sergeant will understand. When the prisoner was delivered into my custody for the duration of the trip, I signed a paper acknowledging my responsibility. I must have a release from the sergeant. It'll take only a few minutes to return to shore and get it inside. Captain.

[Constable Downey]

What?

[Marshal]

Back. Don't raise your voice or I'll use this gun.

[Captain]

You're an imposter.

[Marshal]

Shut the door, Gordon. Yeah. Where's the key to the brig?

[Captain]

This is an act of piracy. And you, Gordon, you're a mutineer.

[Inspector]

Your keys.

[Captain]

I have no intention of giving you my keys.

[Slick Daniels]

They're probably in his desk.

[Captain]

I warn you, Gordon.

[Slick Daniels]

Shut up. Yeah. Here they are.

[Captain]

The last time.

[Slick Daniels]

Last time. All right. I'm gonna stick a towel in your mouth and tie you up.

[Marshal]

Don't say it. Do it right.

[Narrator]

Minutes later, the sergeant climbed aboard the steamer. First he went to his stateroom and buckled on his gun belt. Then he hurried to the captain's cabin. There was no answer to his knock, and he looked through the porthole. He could see a dim shape on the floor. He set his shoulder against the door. It gave way.

[Sergeant Preston]

And then. I'll have you free in a moment, Captain.

[Captain]

Pirates. Mutineers.

[Sergeant Preston]

I gathered. Gordon and a man wearing a policeman's uniform have paid you a visit.

[Captain]

They took my keys. They've gone to release your prisoner.

[Sergeant Preston]

They're still on board. That motor launch is tied to the foot of the Jacob's ladder.

[Captain]

Why didn't you set it adrift? Then they'd have no way to leave.

[Sergeant Preston]

It might be better to let them get clear of the ship, Captain.

[Captain]

Why? If you don't mind your prisoner escaping, that's your business. But I intend to make sure that pirate mutineer get 20 years.

[Sergeant Preston]

I didn't say we let them escape, Captain. They're armed, though. If there were a gunfight on board this ship, a great many innocent people might be hurt.

[Captain]

I intend to stop them. Look, there they are. Near the bottom of the ladder. They're stepping into their launch. Give me your gun, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

They'll not get away. They're casting off and the tide will take them in toward shore.

[Captain]

That's a motorboat.

[Sergeant Preston]

It was. Look, Captain, here comes another motorboat. Marshal and Constable Downey are in it. Yes, and King and Nielsen, too. I'm going over the side. I want to be at the foot of the ladder when the marshal's boat comes alongside.

[Captain]

You better catch those crooks.

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry.

[Narrator]

When the marshal's motorboat edged up to the foot of the Jacob's ladder, the sergeant jumped aboard.

[Sergeant Preston]

Full speed ahead, Marshal.

[Narrator]

You were too late, Sergeant.

[Slick Daniels]

Their trick worked.

[Constable Downey]

They got away with Shane.

[Sergeant Preston]

Not quite.

[Slick Daniels]

That's their boat over to the right.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know that launch.

[Slick Daniels]

It's faster than this one.

[Sergeant Preston]

Not tonight it isn't.

[Constable Downey]

Well, their motor isn't going. They're drifting.

[Sergeant Preston]

A motor needs spark plugs. Downey. I borrowed theirs.

[Inspector]

You what?

[Sergeant Preston]

I took them as I came aboard the ship. Shall we stuck with the launch, Marshal. And give them a chance to see surrender before we open fire? One chance, that's all.

[Slick Daniels]

Ahoy there. You're under arrest. Get your hands up.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's your answer.

[Captain]

I'll leave the shooting to you and the constable, Sergeant. I'll have to keep my hands on the wheel.

[Narrator]

The marshal handled his boat with skill and made sure that the criminals in the launch had the worst possible target.

[Slick Daniels]

Let him have it.

[Narrator]

First Daniel stopped a bullet. Then Shane and Gordon lost all desire to fight.

[Slick Daniels]

Up with your hands.

[Sergeant Preston]

He has too. But all that's left to do, Marshal, is yield him a tow.

[Slick Daniels]

Where to?

[Narrator]

Back to the ship?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. The captain intends to charge Daniels with piracy and Gordon with mutiny. I'd better give Shane some first aid or I'll never get him to Dawson. Good enough, Sergeant. Let Big Hug Nielsen in.

[Captain]

The bottom of the boat is my prisoner.

[Sergeant Preston]

He's charged with assault and he'll spend

[Narrator]

the next few years in my jail. When the city of Portland made its return trip to San Francisco, Daniels and Gordon took Shane's place in the brig and faced sentences of 20 years on their arrival in California, conviction was certain. Bart Nielsen went to jail in Skagway for his criminal assault on Constable Downey. And two weeks later, after Sergeant Preston had delivered Matt Shane into custody at Dawson, the headquarters which had come to be his home was filled with old friends anxious to welcome him back to the Yukon.

[Inspector]

It's good to see you again, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thank you, sir.

[Slick Daniels]

Hello, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Welcome back. Thanks, Mike.

[Slick Daniels]

You sure missed you.

[Sergeant Preston]

I've missed you. All of you. Hello, Tom.

[Marshal]

Bill.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good to see you, Jack.

[Narrator]

It was Some time before the sergeant was free to unsaddle Rex, give him a rub down and turn him into his own stall.

[Sergeant Preston]

There you are, Rex. Home at last. And glad of it, aren't you? How about you, King? Well, I feel the same way. We're together again and I have an idea. We'll be sharing a lot of experience, but there's one sure thing. Matt Shane will have no part in it. He's behind bars. The crown prosecutor says he'll pay for his crime. So, Rex and King, we can safely

[Slick Daniels]

say our first case is closed.

[Narrator]

We'll return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Say, kids, ask your mother how many times she's heard something like this at the breakfast table.

[Sergeant Preston]

Ho hum.

[Marshal]

Same old thing to eat.

[Narrator]

Well, here's something that'll make appetites perk up and take notice, including yours and Dad's. Just pour out bowlfuls of delicious, crisp, tender Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice. Top with milk or cream and sliced bananas, chilled peaches or strawberries and say when you and your family taste the toasty nut like flavor of the good natural grains of wheat or rice, the sunny natural flavor that old Mother Nature puts into them, you'll want this breakfast treat every morning. Remember, there's no sugar added to Quaker Popped Rice and wheat. There's no factory sweetening. Here's the beauty of the ones shot from guns. You and your family can sweeten them with sugar to suit your own special taste. So wake up your appetites every morning with the sunny natural flavor of delicious Quaker Popped Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. And remember, when you eat a better breakfast, you enjoy a better day. The rarest of all fur bearing creatures brought Sergeant Preston face to face with killers. And at the crucial instant, the sergeant's gun misfired. For chills and thrills, be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendall Campbell Muir Incorporated and directed by Fred Flowerday. Today's adventure was written by Tom Dougal. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Brace Beamer. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at this same time by Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice, the breakfast cereals chopped from guns. This is Fred Poy wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Pop Tweet and Quaker Pop Rice.

[Slick Daniels]

So long.

[Narrator]

This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Constable Downey]

Foreign.

[Slick Daniels]

What's up everybody? It's Bretzky and America is turning 250, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate that than playing on an American owned social casino. Spinquest.com with all of your favorite games live craft bubble craps, live blackjack, there's no better place to play for free and win real cash prizes.

[SpinQuest Legal Disclaimer]

Spinquest.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited.

[Narrator]

Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[SpinQuest Legal Disclaimer]

A promotion usually comes down to one thing on your resume that the other candidates don't have. Codecademy gets you there. Build skills in AI, data, cybersecurity, or programming through lessons you complete right in your browser. No lecture halls or long tutorials. Start building the skill that sets you apart with Codecademy. Visit codecademy.

[Marshal]

Com.

[SpinQuest Legal Disclaimer]

That's C O D E C A D E M y dot com.