Address Unknown | Tales of the Texas Rangers (04-27-52)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast

Episode: Address Unknown | Tales of the Texas Rangers (04-27-52)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: August 13, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with an authentic reenactment of a Texas Rangers case titled "Address Unknown." The story, set in August 1940, delves into the investigation of a mysterious disappearance and subsequent murder, showcasing the relentless pursuit of justice by Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan.

The Missing Mother and Young Tommy

The narrative begins on a hot August day in the Big Bend country of Texas, approximately 40 miles northeast of the Mexican border. A poorly dressed woman is seen trudging along a dirt road, leading her four-year-old son, Tommy, while carrying a cheap cardboard suitcase (04:30). The mother expresses concern about reaching her destination, Aunt Josie's, and the scarcity of water they possess.

George (Tommy):
"Can I have a bite?" (00:10)
"Mom and me rolled in the car this morning." (07:27)
"I want my mama." (08:20)

The Rangers Enter the Scene

After waiting for half an hour without any sign of the boy's mother, rancher Collins decides to involve the Texas Rangers. Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan arrive promptly and take Tommy to investigate the last known location of his mother. As they search, Tommy expresses his desperation to find his mother, revealing crucial details about their morning routine and their possessions.

Ranger Jace Pearson:
"Tommy, don't cry. Everything's gonna be all right." (09:31)
"Come. We're gonna find your mama." (09:46)

Discovery of the Crime Scene

The investigation takes a grim turn when Rangers discover the lifeless body of Tommy's mother. The woman appears to have been strangled, and the only items found with her are $12 and a comb in her dress pocket, suggesting that robbery was not the motive. Tommy, traumatized by the loss, clings to the Rangers, complicating the emotional landscape of the case.

Ranger Jace Pearson:
"Poor little boy. Times like this, when I wish I'd never seen a badge." (11:51)
"Guess you're right. Way it looks, Jace, the killer didn't go any further into the brush." (12:03)

Interrogating Pedro Sanchez

Suspecting foul play beyond the initial findings, the Rangers suspect that George Collins, a local rancher with a dubious past, might be involved. They interact with Pedro Sanchez, a man claiming to know Collins but providing evasive answers. Tommy insists that Pedro has been visiting their home, raising suspicions about Pedro's involvement in the local narcotics racket.

Ranger Jace Pearson:
"Are you sure you don't know the boy?" (16:28)
"If you know where Collins is and won't tell us." (26:17)

Pedro Sanchez:
"You make a mistake. Maybe it's the Mustachio. Make him think he know me." (16:34)
"I got nothing to say." (26:15)

The Chase and Capture

Determined to uncover the truth, Rangers Jace and Clay track down Pedro's location near the river. A tense standoff ensues when Collins attempts to flee with a significant amount of heroin hidden in a package. A confrontation leads to Collins being apprehended, revealing his involvement in both the narcotics operation and the murder of his wife.

Ranger Jace Pearson:
"We taken Pedro and the man we'd shot back." (25:34)
"I'm pretty sure Collins killed his wife." (25:34)

George Collins:
"You wouldn't want me to get hurt, would you?" (28:27)
"I had to beat some sense in her head." (29:13)
"She shouldn't have poked her nose in my business." (29:17)

Conclusion and Resolution

The episode concludes with the successful resolution of the case. George Collins is found guilty of murder with malice and sentenced to life imprisonment at Huntsville. Additionally, the dismantling of the narcotics ring involves the arrest of Pedro Sanchez and his associates, ensuring that justice is served.

Ranger Jace Pearson:
"George Collins was found guilty of murder with malice and was sentenced to life imprisonment at Huntsville." (30:54)

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Final Thoughts

Address Unknown serves as a compelling portrayal of the unwavering dedication of the Texas Rangers in the face of adversity. Through meticulous storytelling and vivid character interactions, the episode encapsulates the essence of classic Western radio dramas, offering both entertainment and a glimpse into the challenges of law enforcement in the untamed frontier.

Listeners are treated to a richly restored audio experience, enhancing every ambient sound and dialogue to bring the story to life with remarkable clarity and depth. Andrew Rhynes masterfully curates these timeless tales, ensuring that the legacy of shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger continues to captivate audiences.

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Notable Quotes:

• Tommy: "I want my mama." (08:20)
• Ranger Jace Pearson: "Everyone's gonna be all right." (09:31)
• Pedro Sanchez: "You make a mistake." (16:34)
• George Collins: "She shouldn't have poked her nose in my business." (29:17)

For more episodes and exclusive content, visit otrwesterns.com.

Transcript

[Tommy]

Mmm.

[George]

Ooh, whatcha eating?

[Jace]

The new banana split cookie from AM pm.

[Clay]

All freshly baked with real butter with.

[Jace]

Banana, chocolate and strawberry flavors. Ah, that sounds amazing.

[George]

Can I have a bite?

[Tommy]

I'm sorry but no.

[Jace]

But you can't split the banana split.

[George]

Not even a little.

[Pedro]

Not even a crumb.

[George]

What if.

[Clay]

No, please. Mine when it's too legit to split. That's cravenience.

[Jace]

Get a 3 pack for 99 cents.

[Tommy]

With our app ampm.

[Jace]

Too much good stuff plus tax where applicable. Prices and participation may vary. Terms and conditions apply.

[Clay]

This is the story of the one he's responsible for keeping a leading health care facility clean and safe. And he trusts Granger's high quality H vac cleaning and safety products combined with their world class supply chain to consistently deliver, ensuring he's covered inside and out so he can focus on keeping his facility clean to help protect the health of everyone inside. Call 1-800-GRAINGER clickranger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done. Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Collins]

Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Names, dates and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record.

[Maria]

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[Senora]

Weather prevails throughout the country, more and more families will be getting out of doors, into the yard, on trips to the beach and drives to the country. Yet via the medium of radio. You will be able to keep informed on world events as they happen at a rapid fire pace. You will be able to listen and be entertained by music, drama, mystery and comedy. For wherever you go, there's radio. And the NBC radio network is on the job to keep you informed and entertained. Yes, whenever you tune to this NBC station, you can be sure that you'll hear the finest in radio listening. More than one third of the radio sets in the nation are in automobiles or are of the portable type. So if you go to the beach for an afternoon of fun in the sun, if you drive into the country to view the lush new growth, or if your outdoor activity is limited to putting Vigoro on your lawn to bring it back to rich green life, take along your radio. You'll be royally entertained when you tune to the NBC radio network. And now let's get back to the tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Collins]

And now, from the files of the Texas Rangers, the case called address unknown. It is just before noon on a hot day in August 1940, in the Big Bend country of Texas, 40 miles northeast of the Mexican border. A poorly dressed woman trudges along a dirt road. With one hand she leads a four year old boy. In the other, she carries a cheap cardboard suitcase.

[George]

How far we gotta walk?

[Andrew]

Oh, quite a piece here before we get the bus stop. Now you come on, Tommy, give me a ham.

[George]

I'm hungry.

[Andrew]

Yeah, bet you ought that. I reckon I could use a bite of food myself.

[George]

What we got to eat, mama?

[Andrew]

We'll go over across the road and sit under that tree. Give us a little bit of shade anyhow and we'll use that old flat rock for table.

[George]

What we got? These.

[Andrew]

Oh, something good.

[George]

What?

[Andrew]

Sandwiches. We got some nice side meat.

[George]

I want peanut butter tomorrow.

[Andrew]

Tommy, when we get to aunt Josie's, everybody'd make you too thirsty to date all this hot sun.

[George]

I want a drink, mama.

[Andrew]

Well, I ain't got none. Tommy left the house so fast this morning, I clean forgot about bringing a jar of water.

[George]

But I'm thirsty, Tommy.

[Andrew]

We're just gonna have to wait a minute. That ranch house over there, they ought to have some water.

[George]

I'm thirsty.

[Andrew]

Tommy, honey, see that house down the road?

[George]

Uh huh.

[Andrew]

Well, you just walk down there and ask them if they got a tin can they can give you some water in.

[George]

It's so far.

[Andrew]

Well, I'll be watching you. Now go long now.

[George]

All right, mama.

[Andrew]

Mind you don't stop to play now. Just get the water and bring it right back.

[George]

All Right, Mama, can I have some water? Can I have some water?

[Tommy]

Well, now, look what we got here. Hey, what's a little fella like you doing all the way out here by yourself?

[George]

My mama wants a can of water.

[Tommy]

Why sure, son. Where's she at? Over there, back on the road?

[George]

Uh huh. We're going to Aunt Josie's.

[Tommy]

Is that so? Now what's your name, sonny?

[George]

Tommy.

[Tommy]

Well, Tommy, you come right on out back. We'll see what we can do about getting you some water.

[George]

We got chickens and a horse.

[Pedro]

Yeah.

[Tommy]

Now what kind of horse is he?

[George]

His name's Robin.

[Tommy]

Robin and Tommy, huh?

[Pedro]

Yeah.

[Tommy]

Bet you make quite a pair of. Now here's a cup full of water for you.

[Jace]

There.

[Tommy]

I reckon we can put the water for you ma in this pail here. You and your ma live around here, Tommy, do you?

[George]

We live home.

[Jace]

Uh huh.

[Tommy]

There you are now. There, you want some more water? Maybe I better ride you back to your ma in my car. Too hot for a little fella like you to be walking. Come on now, Tommy.

[George]

Mom and me rolled in the car this morning.

[Tommy]

Is that so? Did you come first?

[George]

I don't know.

[Tommy]

In you go, Tommy. Now slide all the way across. Now we'll just put this pail in the middle here.

[George]

This your car?

[Tommy]

Yep. Handed along fine too. Now where'd you leave your mama?

[George]

Over there. We got side meat, Santa. Just.

[Tommy]

I bet they're good too.

[George]

Your face looks funny, huh?

[Tommy]

Oh, you mean my whiskers, eh? Well, that's what happens when you don't shave for a couple of days.

[George]

I don't got no whispers.

[Tommy]

And you'll get whispers soon enough, Tommy. And when you do, you wish you didn't have them. Is this where you left your mom?

[George]

Uh huh.

[Tommy]

All right, come on, Tommy. Come on. There. There we are.

[George]

My mom ain't here. Where's my mama?

[Tommy]

Oh, she's around there somewhere. Suitcase and lunch are sitting there.

[George]

Where's my mama?

[Tommy]

Now, now, now, Tommy, she'll probably be right back in a minute. I'll give her a call, let her know that we're here. Lady.

[George]

Oh, lady, I want my mama.

[Tommy]

Lady, where are you? Lady?

[George]

Mama. Mama.

[Pedro]

Lady.

[Tommy]

Lady, I got your little boy here.

[George]

Mama. I want my mama.

[Collins]

After the rancher had waited half an hour for the boy's mother to appear, he took Tommy back to his house. Then he phoned Texas Ranger company headquarters located some 30 miles to the north. Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan arrived an hour later. They went with the rancher and the boy to the Spot where the missing woman had last been seen.

[Tommy]

There Ranger suitcase and lunch spread out on that they rock. I just can't figure it.

[George]

I want my mama.

[Jace]

Now, Tommy, don't cry. Everything's gonna be all right.

[George]

I want my mama.

[Tommy]

What's your other name, Tommy?

[Jace]

Tell me what, Tommy?

[George]

Who else? I wanna find.

[Tommy]

Oh, now, Tommy.

[Jace]

Whoa.

[Tommy]

Let's not run away.

[George]

I wanna go to my mama.

[Jace]

Come. We're gonna find your mama. Clay, take a look around, see if you can find anything.

[Tommy]

Sure, Jason.

[George]

What's that?

[Jace]

What? Oh, that's my badge.

[George]

What's it for?

[Jace]

Well, where, Tommy? Where's your daddy? Didn't he come with you?

[George]

My daddy's in heaven.

[Jace]

I see. Where do you live, Tommy?

[George]

Home.

[Tommy]

I don't know if it'll help any ranger, but he said they lived in the place where there were chickens. And they have a horse named Robin.

[Jace]

Uh huh. Well, did you walk over here from your house, Tommy?

[George]

Yeah, we got thirsty.

[Tommy]

He said they rode in the car this morning.

[Jace]

I might have got a lift partway. Where were you going, Tommy?

[George]

To Aunt Silsies.

[Pedro]

Jace.

[Jace]

Now what is it, Clay?

[Collins]

Come on over here a second.

[George]

Can I go with you?

[Jace]

Oh, you stay here, Tommy. I'll be right back.

[Tommy]

Yeah, Tommy, you stay here with me, and if you're real good, I'll let.

[Pedro]

You ride one of my horses.

[Jace]

What'd you find?

[Tommy]

Some tracks here lead into the brush.

[Jace]

Let's see where they go.

[Tommy]

Figured a woman could have run off and left the kid.

[Jace]

Maybe. Doesn't seem likely she'd take off into the brush like this.

[Tommy]

Yeah, you're probably right. She left a suitcase too.

[Jace]

If she.

[Tommy]

Hey, Jace, look at that.

[Jace]

Yeah. Another set of tracks coming in at an angle.

[Tommy]

Much heavier than the ones we've been following. Could have been a man.

[Jace]

Looks like he was moving pretty fast too. Come on.

[Tommy]

Tracks are starting to overlap. Maybe the second set was made by somebody coming along after the woman already passed.

[Jace]

No path going through here. Doubt if anybody'd come this way unless he had some special reason.

[Tommy]

Yeah, I wonder why.

[Jace]

Clay.

[Pedro]

Huh?

[Jace]

Over there to the left. All that torn brush piled up.

[Tommy]

Looks like it's covering something.

[Jace]

Let's go have a look. And pull the brush aside. Yeah.

[Tommy]

Here she is. Juice.

[Jace]

Dead?

[Tommy]

Yeah. Strangled.

[Jace]

Beaten up first. Pretty powerful man from the look of those marks on her face and throat.

[Tommy]

There's a little purse in the pocket of her dress.

[Jace]

Anything in it?

[Tommy]

$12 and a comb. Reckon we can rule out robbery.

[Jace]

Poor little boy. Times like this, when I wish I'd never Seen a badge.

[Tommy]

How are we gonna tell him about this?

[Jace]

I can't for a while. Thing we have to do is keep his mind off his mother until we find out more about him.

[Tommy]

Guess you're right. Way it looks, Jace, the killer didn't go any further into the brush.

[Jace]

He probably headed back for the road. Let's see if we can pick up his trail. We found the trail. The tracks came out on the road 50ft from where the dead woman's suitcase had been left. We checked the suitcase without finding any identification. And we called for the justice of the Peace. And I waited while Clay took Tommy Wilkes back to our headquarters. After the JP arrived, we took the woman's body into town. Was 4:30 when I walked into the office where Clay was talking to Tommy. All right, Tommy.

[Tommy]

You just play with these while I go over and talk for a minute, all right.

[Jace]

How are you doing?

[Tommy]

Been trying to keep him occupied. Maybe those handcuffs will keep him busy for a while.

[Jace]

Is it one of you didn't give me your pistol?

[Tommy]

Maybe. You think he didn't ask for one? He's a swell kid, Jase, but I'm worn out. He's got more energy than a two year old.

[Jace]

Bob.

[Tommy]

Gad.

[Jace]

Did you have him photographed?

[Tommy]

Yeah. We had to practically chain him down to keep him still.

[Jace]

See you got him some ice cream.

[Tommy]

Yeah, he was hungry. He's already eaten over half of it.

[Jace]

How come you got so much?

[Tommy]

I tried to get a pint. All they had left was quartz.

[Jace]

Find out any more about his family? No.

[Tommy]

Maybe you better have a try at it.

[Jace]

Mm. How's everything, Tommy?

[George]

Fine.

[Jace]

Just sit and talk a while, huh?

[George]

Can I have some ice cream?

[Jace]

I think you had enough. Tommy.

[George]

I want some ice cream.

[Jace]

Well, all right. Clay, put a little more ice cream in that dish. Sure. Tommy, you said you were going to your Aunt Josie's.

[Tommy]

Here you are, Tommy.

[George]

Will you fix it for me?

[Jace]

What's he mean?

[Tommy]

He likes it stirred up. Won't eat it unless it's like soup.

[Jace]

All right. Now let's see.

[George]

You like ice cream?

[Jace]

Yeah, sometimes. Here you are, Tommy. Is that better?

[George]

Uh huh.

[Jace]

Tommy, did you ever go to your Aunt Josie's before?

[George]

Uh.

[Jace]

How long were you and your mama walking on the road?

[George]

I don't know.

[Jace]

Did you eat breakfast at home this morning?

[George]

Uh huh.

[Tommy]

That could narrow down our area some. Jason.

[Jace]

Yeah. Tommy, when did you. Wait a second. You're spilling ice cream all down your sleeve. Here, I'll watch. What's the matter?

[George]

You're hurt.

[Jace]

Where?

[George]

Here.

[Jace]

Just let me Pull that sleeve back and take a look.

[Tommy]

Hey, that's an ugly looking black and blue mark.

[Jace]

How'd you get this mark on your arm, Tommy?

[George]

George did it.

[Tommy]

Who's George?

[Jace]

Is he your brother?

[George]

No, he's George.

[Tommy]

Where's he live?

[George]

At our house.

[Jace]

Why'd he do it, Tommy?

[George]

He said I was bad. I wasn't bad.

[Jace]

Is George a little boy or a man?

[George]

Yeah, man. A man.

[Jace]

You tired, Tommy?

[George]

I want my mama to put me to bed.

[Jace]

We'll put you to bed, Tommy. In a nice big bed.

[George]

I want my mama.

[Jace]

Take him out and put him in that cot in the next room, will you, Clay? Sure.

[Tommy]

Come on, Tommy, let's go.

[George]

Are you gonna take me to bed now?

[Jace]

Sure.

[George]

I want my mama to put me to bed.

[Jace]

While Clay was putting Tommy to bed, I checked by phone with the two post offices within a 30 mile radius of the spot where Tommy's mother had been killed. Nobody but the name of Wilkes was listed in the entire area. We sent Tommy's picture to all newspapers in the vicinity. The next morning, Clay and I took Tommy in the car and started combing the countryside in the hope that he would recognize some landmark. By noon, we'd accomplished nothing. Get a little hungry, Tommy? Yeah, we'll see if we can't find some kind of store soon. We'll all have lunch, huh?

[George]

Can I have peanut butter?

[Jace]

Yeah, if you want.

[George]

Mama gives me peanut butter at home. I don't like side meat fantasies. You like side meat? Oh, there's Pedro.

[Jace]

Who?

[George]

Pedro. He comes to see George.

[Jace]

You mean that man on the borough we just passed?

[George]

Yeah.

[Jace]

I'll back up.

[Tommy]

You sure you know him?

[George]

He's Pedro.

[Collins]

Hey, senor.

[Jace]

Hold up a minute. Yeah. You mind coming back here? Come out here, Tommy. That's a boy.

[George]

That donkey sounds funny.

[Pedro]

What is it you want?

[Jace]

Your name. Pedro.

[Pedro]

Pedro Sanchez.

[Jace]

You ever see this little boy before?

[Pedro]

No, I never seen him before.

[George]

Pedro.

[Tommy]

Just a minute, Tommy.

[Jace]

He says he knows you. Told us your name was Pedro.

[Pedro]

Many people have that name.

[George]

I know you, Pedro.

[Pedro]

No. Little boy, you make a mistake. Maybe it's the Mustachio. Make him think he know me.

[Jace]

You sure you don't know the boy?

[Pedro]

Maybe he see me somewhere, senor, but I don't remember him.

[Tommy]

Tommy here says you've been to his house as you visited somebody there by the name of George.

[Pedro]

George. This little boy, he make a mistake. You know how it is with these small ones. Sometimes they have a large imagination.

[Jace]

You live near here, Pedro.

[Pedro]

See? Maybe seven, eight miles by the river.

[Jace]

On the border, see? All right. I'm sorry we troubled you.

[Pedro]

Anytime, senores. Anytime at all.

[Jace]

Oh, by the way, is that general store down the road still open?

[Pedro]

Maria's store. Oh, see, it's open.

[Jace]

Thanks.

[George]

Bye, Pedro.

[Tommy]

Tommy, you sure that's the man who come to see George?

[George]

He comes to our house and sits at the table and talks to George.

[Jace]

I don't know.

[Tommy]

What do you make of it, Jason?

[Jace]

Could be a mistake. Or Tommy's imagination. Then again, it's just possible our friend Pedro is lying.

[Collins]

In just a moment, we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson.

[Clay]

Life is a workout, and Smoothie King is here to help you power through. Whether you're grinding out bicep curls or muscling the couch across the living room, crushing morning miles or sprinting through back to back meetings, Smoothie King has fuel to help you maximize your workouts, own your recovery and elevate your game. Give your body the energy, protein and power it needs with a lineup of delicious smoothies made to help you conquer your goals. Only at Smoothie King have you ever.

[Senora]

Left home, locked the door behind you and had the uneasy feeling that you left a burning cigarette behind. Next time, you'd better go back and check because every 20 seconds throughout the year, a fire breaks out in the United States through carelessness. These fires kill 11,000 persons each year. Disfigure for life or severely burn thousands more and destroy $7 million worth of property. Protect your home from fire by following these simple safety precautions. Don't smoke in bed or throw away lighted cigarettes. Clean out closets, attics, basements, and any place where old newspapers, magazines and inflammable materials are liable to accumulate. Repair defective electric equipment and replace worn or frayed wiring. Use cleaning fluids that won't burn. And be careful with matches. Keep them out of the reach of children. Fires in the home, your home, can and must be prevented. Remember, don't gamble with fire. The odds are against you. And now back to the Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Collins]

We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story. Address unknown.

[Jace]

After we left Pedro, we drove down to Maria's general store. We took Tommy inside with us. One corner, two men sat playing checkers and arguing in low voices. A large woman sat behind the counter swatting as many flies as she could reach from where she was sitting.

[Andrew]

Buenas dias, senores. You ever see such a hot day?

[Tommy]

Buenos dias, senora.

[Andrew]

The heat comes over the flies. To kill one fly, you get 10 in his place.

[Jace]

We'd like to get some lunch.

[Andrew]

Si, senora. I have some cheese in the ice box if you got the time. I can make chili tacos.

[Jace]

How about peanut butter cheese?

[Andrew]

Yeah, I get it. One bottle peanut butter. Anything else, senor?

[Tommy]

Yeah, a loaf of bread and a bottle of milk.

[Andrew]

I see it's hot. Senores. Here's the bread and peanut butter. I get the milk in a minute.

[George]

Her name is Maria.

[Jace]

What'd you say?

[George]

Tell me her name's Maria.

[Andrew]

You remember my name? Emma Chacha.

[Jace]

You know this boy, senora?

[Andrew]

Oh, see, he come here sometimes with his mother.

[Jace]

Tommy, suppose you go with that candy case and pick out something you want. We'll be right over. You know where this Mrs. Wilkes lives? Wilkes?

[Andrew]

Per seor. The senora who bring a little boy here. She's not named Wilkes. Her name Collins.

[Tommy]

Collins?

[Jace]

Are you sure that's her name?

[Andrew]

Well, that's what she call herself, senor, so that's what I call her.

[Tommy]

You know where her place is?

[Andrew]

Oh, see, you go down the road two miles and then you turn left. After maybe half a mile, you come to her house.

[Jace]

Is she and the little boy the only ones who live there?

[Andrew]

Hello, Senor. She got husband?

[Tommy]

Husband? His name George by any chance?

[Andrew]

Yeah, George Collins. He's the one. He come here sometimes to drink beer.

[Jace]

Sounds like Tommy's mother must have remarried.

[Tommy]

Look at that bruise on Tommy's arm. I might say George Collins isn't a very affectionate stepfather.

[Jace]

Senora, you know a man named Pedro Sanchez?

[Andrew]

He was here today? Just a little while ago.

[Jace]

Have you ever seen him with George Collins?

[Andrew]

Well, sometimes they are together here drinking beer.

[Jace]

Thanks. Let's get Tommy Clay. We're going to pay George Collins a visit. We went to the Collins. House was empty. We guessed that nobody'd been there that day. We're pretty sure now that George Collins was involved in his wife's murder. Before we could look for him, we had to get Tommy taken care of for the night. On the way back to town, we radioed Austin for a make on Collins. After we made arrangements for Tommy, we went to headquarters and found a mug shot of Collins that had come in on the wire photo. Together with his record, he'd served a two year sentence for car theft. Our problem was to find him. Had an idea that Pedro Sanchez, the man we'd met that morning, knew more than he told us. After getting directions to his place from the general store, we took horses and started out. It was nearly 11 that night when we rode along the bank of the river and started up a rocky slope.

[Tommy]

That should be a chase. Up there near the top.

[Jace]

Must still be awake. Leonard's burning in his window.

[Tommy]

Why do you figure he lied to us this morning?

[Jace]

Only thing I can think of. He knows where Collins is and doesn't want us to know.

[Tommy]

Nice view of the river from here.

[Jace]

Yeah, a little cooler, too. Whoa. Whoa, Chalky.

[Tommy]

Whoa, Dan.

[Jace]

Whoa, boy. Chase.

[Tommy]

You reckon Collins is hiding out up here with Sanchez?

[Jace]

Maybe. It's not gonna take us long to find out.

[Pedro]

Don't make so much noise. You wanna have the hope?

[Jace]

Can we come in, Pedro?

[Pedro]

Come in, senores.

[Jace]

Can we wake you up?

[Pedro]

Sleeping.

[Tommy]

Your lantern lit?

[Pedro]

I must have forgot to pull it out. Maybe if I move it from the wind. Put it on the table, we can see better.

[Jace]

Are you expecting somebody?

[Pedro]

Me? Oh, no, senor. Why give you that idea?

[Jace]

I kind of thought that lantern in the window might be some sort of signal.

[Pedro]

Signal, Senor? You make a mistake.

[Jace]

Come over here by the light, Pedro. Look. You recognize the man in this picture?

[Pedro]

No, senor.

[Jace]

You should. We understand he's a good friend of yours. His name's George Collins.

[Pedro]

George Collins? I don't know such men. I never seen before in my life. Why you look so at me, senori? I tell the truth.

[Tommy]

You always tell the truth, Pedro.

[Pedro]

See?

[George]

Always.

[Jace]

This morning you said you didn't know the little boy we had with us. He's George Collins, Stepson.

[Pedro]

That's the truth, senoris. He make a mistake? I don't know him. And I never see this George Collins.

[Jace]

Maria up at the general store says you have.

[Pedro]

You believe this fat woman?

[George]

She lies.

[Jace]

If anybody's lying, it's you. Pedro. Are you sure that landed in the window wasn't a signal for Collins?

[Pedro]

No, senor.

[Jace]

And put it back in the window, Pedro.

[Pedro]

Better for us, senor.

[Jace]

Better go out and move the horses. Clay. Collins is going to show up. We don't want him to know he's got a reception committee.

[Pedro]

I'm sleepy, senoris. How much longer I gotta sit and.

[Tommy]

Wait until Collins gets here.

[Pedro]

I think. This Collins is not coming. You're wasting your time.

[Tommy]

Maybe she'll play.

[Jace]

Somebody's coming. Yeah. When he comes, I'll get the door. Don't you make a sound, Pedro. You hear.

[George]

Jake?

[Collins]

Put down that chair, Pedro.

[George]

Police.

[Collins]

This will hold you.

[Jace]

Come on, Clay.

[Collins]

There he goes down the slope. Hold it, Collins. He's heading for the river. I'll hit him up.

[George]

Watch it.

[Collins]

Last one. Got him, Jace.

[Tommy]

Careful.

[Collins]

Maybe trying some kind of trick.

[Tommy]

Yeah, he Got his shoulders. Still breathing, though. Must have just knocked him out.

[Jace]

Turn him over, Jace. Yeah. It's not Collins. Well, then who is it? Wait a minute. He must have been carrying this package. Heroin. Pretty good sized batch of it.

[Tommy]

So that's Pedro's racket. Narcotics. Where's Collins fit into this deal? Why'd Pedro lie about him?

[Jace]

I don't know, but I think Pedro's gonna give us the answer. We took Pedro and the man we'd shot back. Time after we put the wounded man in the hospital, we drove Pedro to headquarters and began asking him questions. His calmness had us puzzled. We want to know why you lied.

[Tommy]

To us about Collins, Pedro.

[Pedro]

I got nothing to say.

[Jace]

Is Collins mixed up in this narcotics racket with you?

[George]

Why?

[Pedro]

You asked me questions, Senior. Send me to jail. I stay there five years.

[Jace]

How do you know it's only five years?

[Pedro]

I got a friend. First time he get caught, he go to jail. Five years.

[Tommy]

Where's Collins, Pedro?

[Pedro]

I don't know.

[Tommy]

Now, look.

[Jace]

Wait a minute, Clay. I've got an idea why Pedro isn't talking. Maybe he thinks as soon as he gets out of jail, he'll be able to go right back into the narcotics business. And he figures Collins will be waiting for him. That right, Pedro?

[Pedro]

I got nothing to say.

[Jace]

If that's what you think, you're wrong. Because when we catch Collins, he's gonna be held for murder.

[Pedro]

Murder? What do you mean?

[Jace]

I'm pretty sure Collins killed his wife. Sooner or later we'll find him, Pedro. And when we do, you'll go on trial with him.

[Pedro]

Me? I got nothing to do with the killing.

[Jace]

You got plenty to do with it. If you know where Collins is and won't tell us.

[Pedro]

Senior, you got to believe me. I didn't know. He's mixed up in this.

[Tommy]

You want to tell us what you do know he's mixed up in?

[Pedro]

See Senior Collins. He's the man I've been working for. When the stuff come from Mexico. Always before, I take it to his house.

[Jace]

Where were you supposed to take it this time?

[Pedro]

Two days ago, Senior Collins come and he said he must go away. He say I have to bring this stuff to him in San Antonio to a hotel there.

[Jace]

Which one?

[Pedro]

The Park Hotel, senor. I had nothing to do with this killing. You gotta believe me.

[Jace]

Come on, Clay. Let's lock our friend up and get moving. It's a long drive to San Antonio. We reached San Antonio 10 that morning. The Park Hotel was a run down establishment that advertised rooms from a dollar up the Desk clerk told us Collins had left word that if anyone came for him, he could be found in a barbershop down the street. We left the hotel and started looking for it.

[Tommy]

That must be it down there, Jase. It's the only barbershop in this block.

[Jace]

Yeah?

[Tommy]

How do you want to work it? We go in and get him.

[Jace]

Probably better wait till. Clay, a man coming out of the barbershop.

[Tommy]

It's Collins. All right, Jace. He sees us. He's running.

[Jace]

Come on.

[Collins]

He's ducking into that restaurant. Get around the rear entrance, Clay.

[Jace]

I'll go in the front.

[Collins]

All right. Be careful, Jace. Yeah. You'll come no closer, Ranger. Drop that gun, Collins.

[Pedro]

You gonna make me a lot of.

[Collins]

People in here, Ranger. You wouldn't want me to get hurt, would you?

[Jace]

Now, look, Collins.

[Pedro]

Now, come no closer.

[Collins]

You do and I'll start shooting, and.

[Pedro]

I don't care who I hit.

[Collins]

You got a narcotics and a murder rap already.

[Jace]

You want to make it worse?

[Collins]

How can I make it worse? I got nothing to lose now.

[Pedro]

I'm going through this kitchen door.

[Collins]

Don't try to come after me unless you want someone out there to get hurt. Grab him. Play.

[George]

I got him, Kate.

[Collins]

Hold Collins.

[Pedro]

You. I'll.

[Jace]

Shut up. Come on, Collins. You were going on out the back. Let's keep right on going. It's all her fault.

[Collins]

She shouldn't have poked her nose in my business.

[Jace]

Pick up your feet. Come on. That's right.

[Tommy]

That little brat son of hers was.

[Pedro]

Gonna learn something bad from me. Said she was going to the cops.

[Tommy]

That why you killed her, Collins? I had to call her force.

[Jace]

She ran away.

[Collins]

I had to beat some sense in her head.

[Pedro]

Crazy woman.

[Senora]

Come on.

[Tommy]

Keep moving.

[Collins]

Quit pushing. Biggest mistake I ever made was marrying her.

[Pedro]

I never should have married.

[Jace]

That's one thing we agree on, Collins. If you hadn't, a little kid would still have his mother.

[Collins]

In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard.

[Senora]

Today, two new shows join the NBC entertainment lineup. Next, on this station, you'll hear the Chase. And then stay tuned for your old favorite, the First Nighter with Barbara Luddy and Olin Soule, the original stars of the series. Later today, it's Theater Guild on the air. Listen to this preview of today's show.

[Jace]

We haven't far to go. If we can just reach the longboat, we'll have a chance. Wait. There's someone in the shadows. Good morning, Mr. Van Weyden and my dear young lady.

[Senora]

I'm sorry to be such a spoil sport.

[Jace]

But you see, it's quite impossible to escape from my ship, and if you.

[Senora]

Move one step closer to the longboat.

[Jace]

I shall be forced to shoot you both.

[George]

This is Margaret Phillips. You have just heard a scene from the Sea Wolf, a dramatic production in which I have the pleasure to co star with Boris Carlos and Burgess Meredith this evening on Theatre Guild on the Air on NBC.

[Senora]

Hear the Seawolf today on Theatre Guild on the Air. And now back to the conclusion of Today's Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Collins]

And now, here are the results of the case you have just heard. Tommy Wilkes was taken to the home of his aunt, who identified him through a newspaper picture. George Collins revealed two other men who completed the narcotics ring. They were picked up by Texas Rangers and all four men involved were given prescribed jail terms. George Collins was found guilty of murder with malice and was sentenced to life imprisonment at Huntsville.

[Senora]

Next week.

[Collins]

Joel McCrae in another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers, Joel McRae will soon be seen in San Francisco Story, a Warner Brothers release. The cast included Tony Barrett, Lillian Byatt, Dick Beals, Leo Curly, Herb Ellis and Don Diamond. Technical advisor was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charles E. Israel and the program was produced and directed by Stacy Kel Gibney.

[Jace]

Speaking.

[Senora]

Next, it's the Chase on NBC.

[Jace]

Foreign.

[Clay]

This has been a presentation of OTRWesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739 this episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[George]

Sam.