The Six Shooter 1953-11-15 Ep 09 Escape From Smoke Falls

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Six Shooter Episode 09 – "Escape From Smoke Falls"

Introduction

The Six Shooter is a captivating radio drama series set in the American West, featuring James Stewart in the titular role of Britt Poncet, a seasoned plainsman navigating the rugged terrains and complex social dynamics of Western territories. In Episode 09, titled "Escape From Smoke Falls," aired on November 15, 1953, listeners are transported to the small town of Smoke Falls, where internal conflicts and external threats converge in a gripping tale of loyalty, courage, and redemption.

Plot Overview

The episode begins with Tom Leverett arriving unexpectedly in Smoke Falls to care for his ailing father, Somerset, who suffers from Lumbaga. Tom had not anticipated staying over, but his father's worsening condition necessitates his presence. Shortly after his arrival, Grace Proudly, the president of the Ladies Aid Society, approaches Tom to invite him to the annual box supper and square dance—a significant community event hosted at Mr. Simpling's barn.

Despite his initial reluctance, Tom agrees to participate in the auctioning of supper boxes, largely due to Grace's persistent persuasion and the allure of winning a chance to dine with Ellen Proudly, Grace's charming daughter. The auction becomes a focal point of the episode, highlighting the competitive spirit and underlying tensions among the townsfolk.

Concurrently, a more sinister plot unfolds as Dink Falk, a notorious outlaw, escapes from jail by shooting Sheriff Tinsmith during his escape. Sheriff Tinsmith, before losing consciousness, entrusts Britt Poncet—the Six Shooter—with the crucial task of capturing Falk to prevent chaos in Smoke Falls. Despite being an outsider and initially hesitant, Poncet recognizes the responsibility entrusted to him and teams up with Tom Leverett to track down the fugitive.

Their pursuit leads them through the challenging terrains of Eagle Mountain to Giant Cave, a secluded and formidable hideout perfect for an outlaw like Falk. The climax unfolds within the cave's labyrinthine passages, culminating in a tense showdown where alliances are tested, and true character is revealed.

Key Characters and Dynamics

• Britt Poncet (The Six Shooter): A composed and methodical plainsman whose expertise becomes pivotal in hunting down Dink Falk. His leadership contrasts with the impulsive nature of some townsfolk.

• Tom Leverett: A responsible son torn between familial duty and emerging romantic interests. His bravery and quick thinking play a crucial role in the resolution of the conflict.

• Grace Proudly: The determined and influential president of the Ladies Aid Society, whose societal standing and intentions drive much of the town's social interactions.

• Ellen Proudly: Grace's daughter, whose budding relationship with Tom adds a personal stake to the unfolding events.

• Spud Hooker: A mischievous and obstinate townsman whose rivalry with Tom creates additional tension during the auction and later influences the climax.

• Dink Falk: The antagonist, a wildcat killer whose escape sets the primary conflict in motion. His unpredictable nature poses a significant threat to the town's safety.

Notable Scenes and Discussions

1. The Annual Box Supper Auction ([03:28] - [08:34])

   Grace Proudly orchestrates the auction, aiming to secure maximum donations for charity. Her fervent efforts are met with varying responses from the attendees, notably Spud Hooker and Tom Leverett. The bidding war over a supper box symbolizes deeper undercurrents of competition and personal ambition within the community.

   Notable Quote:

   Grace Proudly ([05:44]): "A supper like this ought to be worth more than half a dollar. A little bird told me there's a chocolate cake inside."

2. The Outlaw's Escape and the Pursuit ([09:15] - [14:25])

   Sheriff Tinsmith briefs Britt Poncet about Dink Falk's escape, emphasizing the urgency and danger Falk poses. Poncet's decision to collaborate with the local, albeit reluctant, Tom Leverett sets the stage for the ensuing quest. Their strategic approach contrasts with the town's typical handling of law enforcement, highlighting themes of cooperation and trust.

   Notable Quote:

   Tom Leverett ([14:31]): "I'll give a nickel."

3. Tracking Dink Falk to Giant Cave ([14:31] - [21:34])

   The dynamic between Poncet and Leverett is tested as they navigate the challenging landscape to locate Falk. Their partnership underscores the balance between experience and necessity, culminating in the discovery of Falk's hideout in Giant Cave. The depiction of the cave adds an atmospheric tension, emphasizing the isolation and peril of the confrontation.

   Notable Quote:

   Britt Poncet ([20:00]): "You know, lots of times it's more important for a man to know when not to shoot, you know."

4. The Climactic Showdown ([21:34] - [26:53])

   Inside Giant Cave, a tense standoff ensues between Falk, Spud Hooker, and the posse led by Poncet and Leverett. The confrontation reaches its peak as alliances shift and true intentions are revealed. The ensuing struggle culminates in Falk's downfall, but not without personal sacrifice and unexpected displays of heroism.

   Notable Quote:

   Britt Poncet ([24:19]): "If you want somebody to go along, any of the boys, sure, I know that. I'd be mighty grateful, Brett."

Character Development and Themes

• Heroism and Sacrifice: Tom Leverett's willingness to risk his life for Ellen and the community underscores the theme of personal sacrifice for the greater good. His actions during the showdown highlight the unexpected sources of courage and the importance of stepping up in critical moments.

• Community and Rivalry: The interactions between Grace Proudly, Spud Hooker, and Tom Leverett during the auction reflect the complexities within small-town dynamics, where social obligations and personal rivalries intertwine.

• Outsider vs. Insider: Britt Poncet's role as an outsider bringing his expertise to Smoke Falls emphasizes themes of trust, collaboration, and the blending of external wisdom with local knowledge to overcome challenges.

Conclusion

"Escape From Smoke Falls" weaves a compelling narrative that blends action, interpersonal drama, and the rugged charm of the Western frontier. Through the nuanced performances of characters like Britt Poncet and Tom Leverett, the episode delves into themes of duty, love, and the intricate fabric of community life. The resolution not only brings justice to Dink Falk but also fosters newfound relationships and personal growth among the protagonists. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of The Six Shooter, capturing the essence of the Golden Age of Radio with its rich storytelling and memorable characters.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Grace Proudly on the Supper Auction ([05:44])

   "A supper like this ought to be worth more than half a dollar. A little bird told me there's a chocolate cake inside."

2. Tom Leverett’s Determination ([07:56])

   "I'll take it. Right."

3. Britt Poncet on Firing Strategy ([20:00])

   "You know, lots of times it's more important for a man to know when not to shoot, you know."

4. Grace Proudly Encouraging Bids ([07:26])

   "I've got 75. Now, what about a spud? You're not gonna let Tom Leverett outbid you?"

5. Britt Poncet Reflecting on Partnership ([24:11])

   "I never thought you'd be the one to save me. But I wasn't saving you."

Final Thoughts

The Six Shooter Episode 09 delivers a masterful blend of suspense, character interplay, and moral dilemmas set against the backdrop of the American West. The intricate plot and dynamic character relationships offer listeners a rich and immersive experience, embodying the best elements of vintage radio drama.

Transcript

[James Stewart]

In just a moment, you'll hear James Stewart as the Six Shooter, only one of the many fine programs brought to you Sundays on NBC. Each Sunday, listen to the music of the NBC Symphony Orchestra broadcasting from Carnegie Hall. Hear the amusing adventures of Hume Cronin and Jessica Tandy in the Marriage and tune to the NBC Star Playhouse for the nation's greatest stars. It's a lineup of wonderful programs, all of them heard only on NBC. James Stewart as the Six Shooter. The man in the saddle is angular and long legged. His skin is sun dyed brown. The gun in his holster is gray steel and rainbow mother of pearl, its hand unmarked. People call them both the Six Shooter. The NBC Radio Network presents James Stewart as the Six Shooter, a transcribed series of radio dramas based on the life of Brit Poncet, the Texas plainsman who wandered through the Western territories, leaving behind a trail of still remembered legends. Now, in just a moment, immediately following this important announcement, you'll hear Act 1 of the Six Shooter, a Christmas gift with a future. That's how everyone feels about a gift of United States Savings Bonds. Because when those bonds mature, they pay back $4 for every $3 invested. What's more, they can be held as long as 10 years beyond maturity and earn even further interest. Give a gift of United States Savings Bonds. Now act one of the Six Shooter Starring James Stewart.

[Tom Leverett]

I hadn't expected to stay over in Smoke Falls, but when I stopped off to see old dad Somerset and found him all crippled up with Lumbaga, well, I. Of course he didn't ask, asked me to look after his stock, but I could see he sure wanted me to. So, well, a couple of weeks later I. He began feeling better. So I started thinking about moving on. It was nearly 5 o' clock in the afternoon that day. Sun just spilled over the top of Eagle Mountain when the buckboard pulled into the yard.

[Grace Proudly]

Mr. Palmser?

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, good evening, ma'.

[Grace Proudly]

Am, Mr. Thompson. I'm Grace Proudly.

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, pleased to meet you, Ms. Proudley.

[Grace Proudly]

I've been meaning to come out and see how Mr. Somerset's been getting along, but I just never have a minute's free time. It's canning season, you know.

[Tom Leverett]

Yes, ma'. Am. Well, Dad's feeling much better if you'd like to talk to him, he's right in.

[Grace Proudly]

No, no, just say that I asked for him. As a matter of fact, it's you I want to talk to, Mr. Pompsett. Aw, you see, I'm president of the Ladies Aid Society of Smoke Falls. We're affiliated with the church and do lots of Charity work, Christmas baskets and things like that. You know, all the best ladies in town are members. And we. We don't just take in everybody either.

[Tom Leverett]

Well, I.

[Grace Proudly]

Now this is what I'm getting at, Mr. Pomson. Tonight's our box supper in square dance. It's an annual event. Mr. Simpling always loans us his barn for the occasion. I've spent the whole afternoon helping with the decorations. Now, Polly Sullivan, that's Wade Sullivan's wife, she's chairman of the decorating committee. But since I'm president, I felt it was my duty to give her a hand. That's what made me so late coming out here to ask you to ask me about attending the sofa.

[Tom Leverett]

Oh. Oh, no.

[Grace Proudly]

I'm not gonna take no for an answer.

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, but Ms.

[James Stewart]

Proudly.

[Grace Proudly]

To tell you the truth. Well, I've already told folks you were planning to come.

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, but you shouldn't have done that.

[Grace Proudly]

Now. After all, you're practically the first celebrity we've ever had in Smoke Falls. The Auction starts at 7:30. You won't be late, will you, Mr. Pump?

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, but.

[Grace Proudly]

And one more thing. Would you mind wearing your gun? The men folks are especially interested in that. Get up, Sheba. Come on.

[Tom Leverett]

Oh, but wait a. Wait a minute, Miss. Say there, Miss Proudley. Oh, dear. Well, after I gave dad his supper, I washed my face and wet down my hair and started off for old man Simplings barn. When I got there, Miss Proudly met me at the door and introduced me around. The only name that sank in was her daughter, Ellen. Pretty girl. I figured that when the box supper sheet pack was put up for sale, the bidding would be mighty serious.

[Grace Proudly]

All right, everybody, we're ready to begin the auction. We don't want the music. Now, Wilbur, Wilbur. Now just gather round the table here so you can get a good look at what you're buying. But remember, you can't judge your book by its cover. Now, which is one shall we start with? Oh, my, look at this one. Pretty pink ribbon and white tissue paper. Why, I'll just bet you there's a whole fried chicken inside this pot. Now, who's going to make the first bid? A dollar fifty cents. Don't forget, gentlemen, a pretty lady's company goes with the supper.

[Tom Leverett]

I'll give a nickel.

[Grace Proudly]

Now, Spud Hooker, you stop joshing. You know we don't take any bit unless the quarter. Now, who wants in a quarter? Just to get things underway. Look at this lovely box. Just think, some nice young lady spent the whole day fixing it up.

[Tom Leverett]

Then she'll be Too tired to dance.

[Grace Proudly]

Come on, somebody. 25 cents. Why, it cost more than that.

[Tom Leverett]

The auction was kind of slow in picking up momentum. But when Mrs. Proudley started in to make the third sale, well, there wasn't much doubt whose supper she was. Ellen proudly sort of reddened in the cheeks and tried to look unconcerned. I saw her give somebody a glance on the other side of the room, almost like a signal. Couldn't tell who it was intended for. But there were two fellas standing over there. Spud Hooker. One tall, husky, about 25. He'd been cracking jokes and acting sort of like he owned the place. The other boy was kind of a different sort. He's thinner, shorter. He hadn't opened his mouth since I got there.

[Grace Proudly]

I don't know. Now, let's see if you can't do a little better this time. Gentlemen, here's the next supper. My, it looks familiar. Oh, I guess I shouldn't have said anything, should I? Ellen will just about murder me when I get home. Well, as long as the cat's out of the bag, I might as well go ahead with the sale.

[Tom Leverett]

50 cents.

[Grace Proudly]

Bud Hooker bids 50 cents. A supper like this ought to be worth more than half a dollar. A little bird told me there's a chocolate cake inside.

[Tom Leverett]

75 cents, ma'. Am.

[Grace Proudly]

I've got 75. Now, what about a spud? You're not gonna let Tom leverett outbid you?

[Tom Leverett]

$1.

[Grace Proudly]

I'm bid one silver dollar. Who'll give a dollar and a quarter?

[Tom Leverett]

Dollar and a quarter.

[Grace Proudly]

Don't forget, gentlemen, it's all for charity.

[Tom Leverett]

Dollar and a half.

[Grace Proudly]

Now we're getting somewhere. I'm bid a dollar. Fifty cents. Bud Hooker offers a dollar and fifty cents. Are there any more bids?

[Tom Leverett]

Two dollars.

[Grace Proudly]

You're bidding two dollars, Tom?

[Tom Leverett]

Yes, ma'. Am. Three dollars.

[Grace Proudly]

Oh, three.

[Tom Leverett]

That's what I said.

[Grace Proudly]

Well, now, we all appreciate your enthusiasm, boys. But remember, this isn't the only supper you can buy.

[Tom Leverett]

It's the only one I'm buying, and I'll take it. Right.

[Grace Proudly]

$4, huh?

[Tom Leverett]

Wow.

[Grace Proudly]

All right, all right. Going once. Going twice. And it's so.

[Tom Leverett]

$5.

[Grace Proudly]

Now. Now, Spud, are you sure?

[Tom Leverett]

$6. Ms. Proudly. You're making a fool of yourself, Leverett. Ellen wants to eat with me. My. My bid's $6.

[Grace Proudly]

Seven now, boys.

[Tom Leverett]

10.

[Grace Proudly]

Oh, now, you don't mean that, Tom. You can't afford $10.

[Tom Leverett]

I mean it.

[Grace Proudly]

Well, all right. I did. $10. Are there any more bids? Going once. Going twice.

[Tom Leverett]

Go ahead, sell it to him. It ain't gonna do them no good.

[Grace Proudly]

Now, we don't want any trouble, Spud.

[Tom Leverett]

Ellen's my girl and she's eating with me. I'll take that box, Ms. Proudly. Here's your money. Didn't you hear what I said? She's eating with me. Get out of the way, Spud. You're not man enough to make me move. Now, give me that box or I'll take it away from you. Okay, Tom, you hurt me. Hold on here. Now, just a minute here. Now, hold on. This don't concern you, Puntit. No, maybe it doesn't. Maybe it doesn't concern me. It just seems to me that there ought to be a better place for settling things, that's all. Mister. Mr. Poncet's right, Spud. Let's. Let's go out.

[Grace Proudly]

Hey.

[Tom Leverett]

Hey.

[Grace Proudly]

Where's Britt?

[Tom Leverett]

Poncet. Dad. Somerset said he was over here. Yeah, I'm Poncet. Oh, Miss Poncet. Sheriff Tinsmith told me to find you.

[Grace Proudly]

What's the matter, Jake?

[Tom Leverett]

Dink Falk just broke out of jail. Yeah? Yes. He shot the sheriff in the back while he was getting away.

[Grace Proudly]

Oh.

[Tom Leverett]

Hey, we took him over to Docloster's and he's bleeding pretty bad.

[Grace Proudly]

He.

[Tom Leverett]

He wants to talk to Mr. Poncet before. Well, before he. I'll get my horse. Glad. Glad you could. Now, now, what are you talking about, Ray? You're gonna be all right. The doc says you'll be back on your feet again inside of a week or so. Don't know what I was thinking of. Letting Dink Falk get hold of my gun while I was serving his supper. Must be. Must be getting careless, my old age. Well, you're not the first man to have trouble with Falk. He had a pretty fancy reputation from what I hear. That's why I had to see you, Britain. My fault he got loose. And I don't want other folks to pay for my mistakes. What do you mean? I know this town, Brett. They'll get a posse together and start after Falk. Well, that's. And they'll catch him too. But going out in a crowd like that, he'll hear em coming. Falk's a wildcat killer, Bretton. When he's cornered, he won't give up. Pick off three or four of the posse before they can close in. Well, not if they're careful. That's the trouble, though. Fellas here ain't cautious. They're bullheaded. But. But you'd know how to take him, Brit. No, I ain't saying it's your duty. You don't even live in Smoke Falls. But you could capture Falk without him having a chance to. No, no, I'm afraid you're giving me too much credit, Ray. If you want somebody to go along, any of the boys, sure, I know that. I'd be mighty grateful, Brett. Folks here have been good to me. Wouldn't like to leave them thinking that because of me, because of what I did, some of them was gonna. No, no, no. You better take it easy. Just take it easy. I was asking a lot, folks. Good shot. A wildcat killer.

[James Stewart]

We'll return to James Stewart as the Six Shooter in just a moment. Recently the American Red Cross was called on for immediate and dramatic expansion of its part in the National Blood Program. Was asked to make available all the gamma globulin possible for the prevention of paralysis from polio. Experiments conducted over the past two years have demonstrated the effectiveness of this treatment. It takes approximately one pint of blood to make an average dose of gamma globulin as used for polio. And one injection protects a child for a period of one to five weeks. Therefore, there is a tremendous need for blood donations now. So that we may be able to do our utmost to safeguard our children during the epidemic period next summer. At the same time, there has been no let up in the need for blood for use overseas and for the thousands of wounded men in our military hospitals who are still fighting for a chance to live. If you are an adult, call your local Red Cross chapter right away. Get an appointment to make a donation of your blood for the National Blood Program which aims to supply the total blood needs of the country. Join the thousands of Americans who are rolling up their sleeves. Take pride in having helped save a Life.

[Tom Leverett]

Now.

[James Stewart]

Act 2 of the Six Shooter. Starring James Stewart as Britt Poncet.

[Tom Leverett]

Sheriff Tinsmith had been right about the town. Foreman of posse hadn't lost any time. Spud Hooker was taking charge. I was kind of surprised to see that Tom Leverett was along. But I figured he and Hooker sort of joined forces for the time being. How is he punsit? Well, he passed out a few minutes ago. Maybe it's just as well. At least he's getting some rest. Yeah, well, we're going after Fault. The other boys are waiting behind the mercantile. Uh huh. Looks like you got caught a gang? I ain't got no objection to having you go along too. Not that we need you, you understand. Yeah. Well. You coming? Well, I had a little talk with the sheriff just before he lost consciousness. He seemed to think that taking out a posse after Falk wasn't such a good idea. What's he want us to do, let.

[James Stewart]

Him go scot free?

[Tom Leverett]

No, no, no. Sheriff Tinsmith sort of suggested maybe one or two men would have a better chance of catching him. They can make faster time, maybe sneak up on Falk unaware. Oh, yeah, yeah. Well, it's okay with me. You're going to be one of the boys who goes after him, Poncet. Well, I haven't exactly made up my mind. You better make it up fast or I'll take somebody else. Oh. Oh, I see. Well, in that case, I say, your name's Leverett, isn't it? That's right, Mr. Poncet. Tom Leverett. Mm. You want to ride along with me? Why, sure. Wait a minute here. I thought you said one or two men. I did. Well, we don't need Leverett then. Well, I tell you, I sort of figured maybe you ought to stay in Town Hall. So Tom and I get in trouble? Well, you could bring the posse out later. You trying to make a fool out of me, Punit? No, no, I'm not. Everybody knows I'm twice the man Lever it is. I can ride better and shoot faster. And I'll fight him two to one. You want the credit for catching Falk yourself, don't you? Well, it ain't gonna work out that way. Come on, boy. I'll find Falk myself and I'll bring him in. All that's well, Tom. Let's go, huh? Fox trail headed west up toward Eagle Mountain. And the moon was out sort of a half moon, but it gave us enough light so we could follow hoof prints. Falk's horse had left long about midnight. We spotted another trail. Fresher. Couldn't have been more than a couple minutes old. Cut in from one side and then went on ahead in the same direction Falk was riding. You see that, Tom? Yeah. Looks like Spud Hooker took a shortcut. Yeah, you read me. He'll be us to him. Oh, you never know. Never know if he does, he might save us some grief. Would he? Huh? You're not anxious to tangle with Falk, are you, Mr. Poncet? No, no, no. I'm not anxious to tangle with anybody, Tom. But I thought. Well, you brought in other outlaws before. Oh, some, some. Not as many as folks think. But I've never enjoyed tangling with Funny Eldon. Why'd you pick me? Spud's right. He is twice the man I am. That's shooting, maybe. Yeah, but there's more to trailing a killer than being able to shoot. You know, lots of times it's more important for a man to know when not to shoot, you know. Huh. Yeah. Fellow's itching to pull a trigger like Spud. Well, he's. He's have to pull it too soon and. Hey, look at that. The moon's going down. We might as well get some shut eye. Oh, boy. Oh, Scar. He couldn't see the trail anyway. Spud won't be stopping for sleep. No. No, I don't suppose he will. That's another reason I picked you. I. I kind of figured he'd want to keep pushing on all night. And now, doggone I God along about this time, I just get tired. As soon as the morning sun began gray in the sky, we started off again. Fox Trail was winding up the side of Eagle Mountain. Now it was a pretty hard ride. Tom didn't complain, even though I could see he wasn't used to us. Every once in a while he almost slide out of his saddle, but somehow he managed to hang on. About noon we reached Little Creek and Falk's trail gave out. The other trail, the one we figured was Hooker's. It sort of milled around in all directions, then went off on a tangent. We climbed out from our horses, got a drink of water. It tastes good, doesn't it? Yes, sure does. You ever been out this way before, Tom? Oh, yeah. Not for the last couple of years though. Any cabins around place a man could hide out? Well, not that I remember. Do you think we're getting close to him? Well, he could have gone on using the creek to cover his trail, but he'd have to stop pretty soon. No? Oh, yeah. A man can't keep riding forever. Even Dink Falk. So far we haven't seen any signs that he made camp. You see, that's so Giant Cave. Hmm. He might be there, Brit. It's not more than a mile away, due south. Giant Cave? You've heard of it, ain't you? No, I don't think I have. Well, it'd be a perfect spot for a man to hold up. Nobody knows for certain just how far back into the mountain the cave really goes. Some scientific fellows tried to explore it last summer, but, well, their lanterns gave out before they come to the end. Well, that sounds like something we ought to see. Even if walk isn't there. Come on, let's go and have a look. That's the entrance there, Brit. Beside that slab of yellow rock. Uh huh. I don't see any sign of Fox Trail. I guess he could have come up from the other side. Yeah, that's what he must have done, huh? That pony over yonder, that clump of bushes grazing. Oh, yeah. Yeah, I see him. Easy, Scott. Easy. Easy. War Boy. Jake Watson's said Falk stole a sorrel when he made his getaway. Now, we'd better close in on foot. We tethered our horses on a couple of spruce saplings, moved into the cave entrance. Wasn't a very big hole. We had to sort of bend over and crawl through it. But the room on the other side, I. That must have been 100ft long, 50ft wide. The walls were sheer rock, sort of rainbow colored. So smooth you'd have thought somebody had been polishing them. And then the light behind us got down to a pinpoint. He wouldn't be hiding here in the dark, would he, Brit? Maybe he heard us coming.

[James Stewart]

There's somebody up ahead.

[Tom Leverett]

Yeah. You got your gun ready? Now, don't use it unless you're pretty sure of hitting something. We start shooting, it'll just help his aim. Okay. All right, now back up against the wall here. Behind. We know you're in here, Pop. You go any further, you'll get lost. You'll never find your way out. Hey. You hear me, Puck? You're wasting lead. You can't see us. We know that. You can't see me, neither. We don't have to. You've got to come out sooner or later. And we'll be waiting. All right, we're gonna leave you now, Puck. We're going outside and wait. Hey, where you. Are you giving up? No, I ain't. And I ain't alone. What? I got somebody with me. Friend of yours? I reckon. We're coming out together. And if you try to stop me, I'll kill him. What's he talking about? He ain't lying. Brett. It's me, Spud Hooker. Spud? I caught up with him last night, but he. But he got the draw on me. Hold your fire, Brit. He means what he says. He'll kill me if you don't hold your fire. You got to do what he told you, but you got it. All right, F. Come on. Start backing up towards the entrance. I don't hear you moving, Brit. Please. All right, let's go. Tomorrow we backed out into the daylight, Tom and me, and waited for them. About a minute later, Spud Hooker marched through the mouth of the cave half scared to death. Dink Falk was right behind him, holding a.45 aimed at the smallest Spud's back. I was pretty sure he wouldn't hesitate to pull the trigger, either. Sheriff Tinsmith was right. He's just a wildcat killer. He had that stampede look in his eyes as he stood there blinking against the sun. Same kind of a look you see in a steer when the herd's shoving him along. You can't stop or be trampled at it. Hang off your guns, both of you. Take them off, or I'll fix your friend here. Falk gave Spud a shove with his gun. He jumped forward. There was an opening now between him and Falk. The next thing I knew, Tom dived forward.

[Grace Proudly]

Get out of Spud.

[Tom Leverett]

Tom tackled Spud and he rolled over. The bullet miss. But Tom was in range and he took it. Falk aimed to fire again, and I managed to get my gun out. Bullet hit his thigh and spun him around. Then his leg buckled and he fell face down. He hadn't let go of the pistol yet. He started to bring it up. Drop it, Falk. For a second, his finger went right on squeezing the trigger. But nah, he just didn't have the strength. Tom. Tom. You all right? Sure. It's hardly bleeding. I. I should have let Falk alone. I should have let you handle him, Britt. Well, I don't know. Looks to me like Tom did most of the handling around here. I mean, if it hadn't been for him. I guess I had your figured wrong, Tom. I never thought you'd be the one to save me. But I wasn't saving you. Spud. Huh? I don't like you. I never did. And nothing's gonna change that. Then why? I like Ellen. I like her a lot, but. Well, she's in love with you. If you got yourself killed or just hurt her. Her and wouldn't do me no good. Ellen tell you she's in love with me? She didn't have to. When she finds out what happened today. She ain't going to find out. I'm going to tell her. I'm going to tell her myself. I don't want her to know. It's for me to decide. Now, listen here, Spud. Hooker, you do the listening for a no. I thought you were listening last night, but it looked like. Now, now, now, hold on. Hold on now. Now. I think we ought to get Tom to a doctor, don't you? If we don't, Alan won't have no way of choosing him, even if she wanted to. Come on, Spud. Come on. Give me a hand. Now, we tied Falk onto the back of his pony and started off for town. I sure didn't know what Alan was gonna do about Spud and Tom. Oh, you never know what a woman's gonna do when it comes to, you know, falling in love and marrying and all that sort of thing. But I did know one thing, that picking Tom to go along with me, that had been a pretty good choice. Ellen proudly could do a whole lot worse, you know.

[James Stewart]

Ladies and gentlemen, the tradition of religious freedom and of religious worship in America goes back to the very founding of our country. So in these days of world crisis, when our nation and all its citizens need spiritual strength and guidance, all of us should think again of what religion means to us and to our country for its religious faith that makes our way of life possible. During November, people of many faiths are joining in a great Religion in American Life campaign. So whatever your faith may be, you are asked to join in this campaign. Be sure to attend and support the church or synagogue of your choice. And if you have children, by all means light their life with faith. Bring them to worship this week. The Six Shooter is an NBC Radio Network production in association with Review Productions. It is based on a character created by Frank Burt, and the transcribed story is written by him. Mr. Stewart may currently be seen in the Universal International picture Thunder Bay. Others in the cast were Jeanette Nolan, Frank Gerstel, Robert Griffin, Forest Lewis and Sam Edwards. Special music for this program was by Basil Eddie, and the entire production is under the direction of Jack Johnstone. All characters and incidents were fictitious, and any resemblance to actual characters or incidents is purely coincidental. And incidentally, a great many of our friends have written in to thank us for putting the Six Shooter on the air. And a surprising number of letters have requested the name of the theme you are listening to right now and where it might be obtained. Well, we're sorry, but it is music that has been recorded exclusively for broadcast and is therefore not available for home use. But we are grateful nonetheless to all of you who have written. Your kind letters are always welcome. This is Hal Gibney speaking tonight. Here's Celeste Holm in the NBC Star Playhouse on the NBC Radio Network.