Arms and the Girl | Challenge of the Yukon (12-27-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: Arms and the Girl | Challenge of the Yukon (12-27-51)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: April 23, 2025

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Introduction

In this exhilarating episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Yukon during the gold rush era. The story centers around Jim Kenyon, a steadfast trader, his assistant Bill Hayden, and the ever-watchful Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police. As the narrative unfolds, themes of integrity, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of justice intertwine against the backdrop of the untamed frontier.

Setting the Stage

The episode kicks off with a vivid advertisement for Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice, seamlessly integrated into the storyline. This sets a nostalgic tone, harking back to the golden age of radio where product placements were a staple.

Conflict Emerges

Trouble brews when Red Carney, the newly appointed manager of the rival Yukon Trading Company’s post, confronts Jim Kenyon with an ultimatum. At [04:01], Red proposes buying out Kenyon’s trading post for a paltry $5,000, despite Kenyon’s insistence that the post is worth at least $15,000 due to its strong relationships with the local Indigenous community.

Jim Kenyon:
"I don't have to turn them over to you to cheat and rob." [04:37]

Refusing to succumb to Red’s pressure, Kenyon stands his ground, highlighting his commitment to fair dealings with the Indigenous traders. This defiance sets the stage for escalating tensions.

Rising Tensions and Ambush

Later that night, suspicious activities around the storehouse hint at impending danger. Kenyon and Hayden discover that Red Carney has incited unrest among the local Indigenous population, leading to an attempted break-in orchestrated by renegades like Taggish Mike and Sleeping Bear.

Red Carney:
"Better think it over, Jim." [05:30]

As the snow intensifies, the conflict escalates when Bill Hayden is ambushed and shot, leading to Mary's capture. This prompts the intervention of Sergeant Preston, who arrives with his loyal dog, Yukon King, ready to restore order.

Sergeant Preston Enters the Fray

Sergeant Preston’s introduction is marked by his authoritative presence and unwavering dedication to upholding the law. Upon meeting Kenyon, he uncovers Red Carney’s malicious intentions and the broader scheme to monopolize the trade in the Yukon region.

Sergeant Preston:
"We have laws here in the Yukon and we have a great organization to enforce them." [09:36]

Preston partners with Kenyon to devise a cunning plan involving a counterfeit ransom note to unmask Red Carney’s deceit. This strategy aims to expose Red’s true motives and rally support from both the Indigenous community and the authorities.

Climactic Confrontation

The tension culminates in a dramatic showdown at Sleeping Bear’s village. Red Carney’s duplicity is laid bare as Sergeant Preston, allied with White Eagle and his braves, confronts the betrayers. The ensuing conflict results in the arrest of Red Carney and his cohorts, ensuring justice is served.

Red Carney:
"This is red. Connie's doing. I can't give you any rifle." [23:06]

Sergeant Preston:
"This is Matt Carson, Marion. And you, Red, happen to be an ex-employee." [26:09]

Resolution and Closure

With Red Carney and his gang apprehended, peace is restored to the Yukon trading post. Mary Kenyon is freed, and Jim Kenyon’s integrity is vindicated. The episode closes with a hint of future adventures, promising more heroic tales from Sergeant Preston and his team.

Notable Quotes

• Jim Kenyon:
  "The offer you've made is nothing but highway robbery." [04:28]

• Sergeant Preston:
  "I'll cut those ropes." [25:25]

• Red Carney:
  "I was only following instructions." [25:29]

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Conclusion

Arms and the Girl | Challenge of the Yukon masterfully blends suspense, drama, and moral lessons set against the harsh yet enchanting Yukon wilderness. Andrew Rhynes’ meticulous digital restoration enhances every soundbite, immersing listeners in the narrative’s rich auditory landscape. This episode not only entertains but also pays homage to the valor and resilience epitomized by characters like Sergeant Preston, making it a standout installment in the Old Time Radio Westerns series.

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Join Us Again:
Stay tuned for the next thrilling adventure of Sergeant Preston and his team. Don’t forget to like, rate, and subscribe to the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast on your favorite platform. For exclusive content and updates, follow us on Facebook and YouTube.

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This summary is based on the podcast episode "Arms and the Girl | Challenge of the Yukon (12-27-51)" released on April 23, 2025.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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.

[Narrator]

Now. As gunshots echo across the windswept, snow covered reaches of the wild northwest, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. The breakfast cereal shot from gun present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the Northwest. Blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police. In his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike. In the wild race for riches back to the days of the gold rush. With Quaker Puff 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 Pop Wheat. It's neat. And when you hear that shooting, you're der tootin. The Quaker makes the ones shot from gun and just as quick as a gunshot. The minute you taste them, you'll know they're the ones you want for breakfast every morning. Yes, when you pour out a bowl full of swell tasting Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice. Add milk or cream and your favorite fruit. They score a quick hit with your appetite. So crisp, so tender, so tempting.

[Jim Kenyon]

Mmm.

[Narrator]

You just can't beat delicious Quaker Puff Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat. Enjoy this treat starting tomorrow. Jim Kenyon had run a trading post at Green island Lake for 10 years. When the Yukon Trading Company opened a post in competition on the south shore of the lake. Red Carney, who had often been suspected of outlaw activities in the district, was installed as manager. And Jim knew he was in for trouble. It started one night late in December. As Kenyon and Bill Hayden, his young assistant, were checking over their accounts, a dog team stopped outside.

[Jim Kenyon]

You better see who that is, Bill.

[Bill Hayden]

Yeah. Late for a traveler. It's Connie.

[Red Carney]

Hello, Bill. How are you?

[Bill Hayden]

I was feeling fine up till now.

[Red Carney]

Well, aren't you gonna ask me to come in?

[Jim Kenyon]

Come in and shut the door.

[Red Carney]

Take a lesson from your boss, Bill. You want to be a good trader, you have to make everybody who comes.

[Jim Kenyon]

To your post feel welcome, no matter who it is. What brings you here at this time of the night, Red?

[Red Carney]

Well, sir, I just received a letter from the Yukon Trading Company headquarters in Dawson. They want me to make you a proposition.

[Jim Kenyon]

What kind of a proposition?

[Red Carney]

You should be able to Guess they don't like competition. They want me to buy you out.

[Jim Kenyon]

How much?

[Red Carney]

5,000 for your buildings, your pelts and your trading goods.

[Bill Hayden]

5,000? Show them your books, Jim.

[Jim Kenyon]

Our inventory runs to nearly 10,000.

[Red Carney]

I'm offering five. Take it or lose every dime you have.

[Jim Kenyon]

So you mean to run me out of business, huh?

[Red Carney]

That's it. The company's willing to lose money for a while to get control of the district. If you don't sell, we'll start offering better than market prices for pelts. By the end of the winter, there'll not be a single Indian coming here to trade.

[Jim Kenyon]

Get out.

[Red Carney]

Better think it over, Jim.

[Jim Kenyon]

I don't have to. The offer you've made is nothing but highway robbery. This post is worth 15,000 at least.

[Red Carney]

Not with us at the other end of the lake.

[Jim Kenyon]

But even if you offered me a fair price, I wouldn't consider selling. The Indians around here are good Indians. They deserve a square deal. And I won't turn them over to you to cheat and rob.

[Red Carney]

Why, you.

[Bill Hayden]

Don't reach for that gun, Red. You're covered.

[Red Carney]

So you think the Indians around here good Indians?

[Jim Kenyon]

All of them. Except for the few renegades who used to be in your gang.

[Narrator]

What gang?

[Jim Kenyon]

The one that's been responsible for every trail robbery in this district for the past three years. I don't know how you managed to get a job with the Yukon Trading Company. You're nothing but a crook.

[Red Carney]

I'll give you one more chance, Jim.

[Jim Kenyon]

Get out.

[Red Carney]

I warned you, though. Now you'll be running into grief where you least expect it.

[Bill Hayden]

You heard what Jim said. Get out.

[Red Carney]

Okay.

[Bill Hayden]

And shut that door. Grief were you least expect it. What do you mean?

[Jim Kenyon]

Must be that you're gonna double cross me.

[Narrator]

Me?

[Bill Hayden]

Well, this isn't any time for kidding, Jim. What did he mean?

[Jim Kenyon]

I don't know. We'll have to be prepared, that's all.

[Bill Hayden]

And fight.

[Jim Kenyon]

There's one thing we'll not do, that's take the law into our own hands. I want you to be careful with your shooting iron.

[Bill Hayden]

Sure.

[Jim Kenyon]

Use it to protect our property or in self defense. But that's all. You understand?

[Bill Hayden]

Yes, sir.

[Jim Kenyon]

Of course. I'm glad you know how to use it. Oh, say, by the way, Mary will be coming home from a visit with the Bradfords day after tomorrow. It might be a good idea for you to drive in the White Horse and bring her back.

[Bill Hayden]

That's a wonderful idea.

[Jim Kenyon]

I thought you might like it.

[Bill Hayden]

As a matter of fact, I. I've been meaning to ask you. That is Mary and I have talked it over. And I said I'd talk it over with you while she was gone. Of course, I realize she's the only family you have. And you don't want to lose her. But you wouldn't really be doing that, would you, Jim? This isn't any surprise to you?

[Jim Kenyon]

No, Bill.

[Bill Hayden]

Hey.

[Jim Kenyon]

Humans.

[Bill Hayden]

What's the matter with them?

[Jim Kenyon]

They sound like they're on the war pad.

[Bill Hayden]

Those renegades of carnies. Taggish Mike and Sleeping Bear.

[Jim Kenyon]

Hey, come on. There they are. Over by the storehouse.

[Bill Hayden]

They have torches.

[Jim Kenyon]

Come on.

[Narrator]

By the light of their torches, Jim and Bill could see a crowd of Indians milling around the storehouse. Then they recognized the leader. Jim.

[Bill Hayden]

That's White Eagle, son. Giving orders.

[Jim Kenyon]

This is what Connie meant. Huh? Grief where we least expected it. He's turned the good Indians against us. But how could he listen to them yell? They're half crazy. He's been given the young braves. Firewater.

[Bill Hayden]

Shall I use my gun?

[Jim Kenyon]

Yes, but shoot over the head.

[Red Carney]

I'll shoot to kill next time. Get away from that door.

[Jim Kenyon]

They're making a break for it.

[Bill Hayden]

Shall I go after him?

[Jim Kenyon]

No. No. We'll see how much damage they've done. Come on.

[Bill Hayden]

Door. Looks all right.

[Jim Kenyon]

Yes. They didn't even touch the padlock.

[Bill Hayden]

Do you think they'll come back?

[Jim Kenyon]

No, not tonight. But there's no telling about the future, Jeremy.

[Bill Hayden]

It's against the law to sell an Indian liquor.

[Jim Kenyon]

You don't have to tell me that.

[Bill Hayden]

Carney can't get away with it.

[Jim Kenyon]

Someone will have to tell him so. I'll return his call the first thing in the morning. And this time it's I who give the warning.

[Narrator]

The following morning, Red Carney and his right hand man, Tagish Mike, watched Jim Kenyon stop his team in front of the Yukon trading post on the south.

[Sergeant Preston]

Shore of the lake.

[Red Carney]

He's right on time. See to his dog.

[Jim Kenyon]

Okay. Just leave dogs where they are. Kenyon, Alan Harness. Well, that isn't necessary.

[Sergeant Preston]

Clear.

[Jim Kenyon]

Shit.

[Red Carney]

Right here, Jim. Sit down and make yourself comfortable.

[Jim Kenyon]

Oh, thanks. I'm only staying a minute.

[Red Carney]

Change your mind about selling?

[Jim Kenyon]

No, I'll never change my mind. I don't have to tell you what happened at my place last night, do I?

[Red Carney]

Huh? Anything wrong?

[Jim Kenyon]

White Eagle's son and about a dozen of the best Indians we have in the district tried to break into my storehouse.

[Red Carney]

Hear that, Taggish? He said the best Indians and you want to protect them from me.

[Jim Kenyon]

I still want to protect him. Any rotten polecat who'd sell an Indian liquor ought to be strung up by his heels. They can't stand it and you know it.

[Red Carney]

Sure, I know it. They go crazy when they get drunk. No one can control them. Why, there's no telling what they'll do.

[Jim Kenyon]

You counted on that, did you?

[Red Carney]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Jim Kenyon]

I'm talking about trouble where I least expected it to. Go ahead and laugh. That's all the admission I need. But now it's my turn to give you a warning. We have laws here in the Yukon and we have a great organization to enforce them. The Northwest want to please about 20.

[Red Carney]

In the whole territory and I haven't seen any around here.

[Jim Kenyon]

You will before long. The best man won the force.

[Red Carney]

Yeah.

[Jim Kenyon]

Sergeant Preston. He's making his headquarters in Whitehorse. Bill Hayden went there today to get married and he's bringing the sergeant back with him. Well, what for? To find out who's been selling liquor to the Indians and throw the crook in jail.

[Red Carney]

Did you do it?

[Bill Hayden]

No.

[Jim Kenyon]

I think you did. This is all the warning you'll get. If you want to raise the price you pay for pelts and try to put me out of business, I can't stop you. When you start breaking the law, the Northwest mother police step in and they always get their man.

[Red Carney]

You report me to them and you'll.

[Narrator]

Regret it for the rest of your life.

[Jim Kenyon]

Just watch your step.

[Bill Hayden]

Well, boss.

[Narrator]

Shut up.

[Jim Kenyon]

If sergeants show up here, be plenty tough what you deal over.

[Red Carney]

I happen to know he isn't in White Horse now. He went up to Dawson. Where's Louie?

[Jim Kenyon]

At Sleepin Bear's village on Painted Creek. You got work for him?

[Red Carney]

Yeah, for Louie and Sleepin Bear and half a dozen of their renegade pals.

[Jim Kenyon]

Boss, you aren't going to send them to Kenyon's post?

[Red Carney]

Yes.

[Matt Carson]

Indians work for him who hates Sleeping Bear.

[Red Carney]

Mary Kenyon's been staying with the Bradfords and White Horse and Bill Hayden's going into town to get her work of it. He'll be coming back tomorrow and the sergeant won't be with him. Now, listen. Here's what I want you to tell Louie. There's a spot where the trail runs through the forest about 10 miles east there.

[Jim Kenyon]

Here.

[Narrator]

It began to snow early the next morning, but in spite of the bad weather, Bill Hayden and Mary Kenyon set out from Whitehorse for Green Island Lake. By noon they were only halfway through the forest and they stopped to rest the dogs. After building a shelter of pine boughs at the side of the trail, Bill brought His Primus stove from the sled, checked the oil and lit it. Mary made tea and they huddled close to the store.

[Mary Kenyon]

Bill, why are we traveling in this snowstorm? Why didn't we stay in Whitehorse until tomorrow? Is anything wrong at the lake? Well, you were trying to find Sergeant Preston last night.

[Narrator]

Why?

[Bill Hayden]

I had a message for him.

[Mary Kenyon]

From whom?

[Bill Hayden]

Your father.

[Mary Kenyon]

What was it?

[Bill Hayden]

Well, you know about the new post.

[Jim Kenyon]

Yes.

[Bill Hayden]

That Red Carney's managing it. Yes. He's selling liquor to the Indians. He's doing everything he can to make trouble for us. Your father wants Sergeant Preston to come to the lake as soon as possible. Is that all? Oh, it's serious, Mary.

[Mary Kenyon]

When is the sergeant expected back in Whitehorse?

[Narrator]

Soon.

[Bill Hayden]

Perhaps today, perhaps tomorrow. I left word for him, but I. I didn't think we should wait. Kearney wants to buy your father out and he said. Bill, over here behind the street, those.

[Mary Kenyon]

Men are shooting at him.

[Jim Kenyon]

Keep down.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Everybody's been talking about presents. And here's a present you can give your appetite every morning. A heaping bowl full of Quaker puffed wheat or Quaker puffed rice covered with milk or cream and fruit. You know, these famous ready to serve breakfast cereals. Oh, excuse me a minute. Hello.

[Santa Claus Helper]

Are you the man who sells Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice on the radio?

[Narrator]

I sure am.

[Santa Claus Helper]

Well, I'm one of Santa Claus helpers up here at the North Pole.

[Narrator]

You're what?

[Santa Claus Helper]

You know who Santa Claus is, don't you?

[Narrator]

Why, of course I do.

[Santa Claus Helper]

Well, I've been helping him make toys and now that Christmas is over, I'm out of work looking for a job.

[Narrator]

You mean you want to help me sell Quaker puff wheat and Quaker puff rice?

[Santa Claus Helper]

Catch on fast, buddy. And I'll do a swell job because I know all about those swell cereals.

[Sergeant Preston]

Are you sure?

[Santa Claus Helper]

Yes, you betcha.

[Narrator]

You know that Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice are shot from guns?

[Santa Claus Helper]

I sure do. They're exploded up to eight times normal size, puffed to perfection so they're crisp and tender. They just melt. And they're full of banged up nut like flavor too.

[Narrator]

It sounds as if you eat Quaker puffed wheat or Quaker puffed rice every morning.

[Santa Claus Helper]

I wouldn't miss a morning.

[Narrator]

But say, do you know that wheat and rice shot from guns are nourishing?

[Santa Claus Helper]

Why, sure. Everyone knows they furnish added food values of restored natural green amounts of vitamin P1, niacin and iron.

[Narrator]

Well, that's a tip for you fellas and Girls, every morning enjoy this breakfast treat. Delicious, nourishing. Quaker popped rice and Quaker popped wheat. Look for the big red and blue packages with the smiling Quaker man on the front. Now to continue. King was working as a free lead, breaking the trail for the sergeant's team. It was he who first caught sight of the dogs burrowed in the snow beside the trail. And he looked back at his master, barking for his attention.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, boy, I see.

[Narrator]

There was a passenger on the sergeant's sled.

[Matt Carson]

Perhaps we've caught up with them, Sergeant.

[Voice of the Audience]

Perhaps.

[Sergeant Preston]

They only left town a couple of hours before we did. And we've made good time. But I don't see any sign of them. Only the dogs.

[Matt Carson]

Someone's built a shelter against the wind. And there's a stove.

[Narrator]

At that moment, the tone of King's barking changed.

[Matt Carson]

Sergeant, there's someone lying on the ground beside the stove.

[Sergeant Preston]

It's Bill Hayden, hulking.

[Matt Carson]

He's been shot.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's a first aid kit in my grub box. Get it, please.

[Bill Hayden]

Right, Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Who shot you, Bill?

[Bill Hayden]

The Indians. There were six of them. Someone with a bandana across his face. I don't know who he was. Where's Mary?

[Sergeant Preston]

Lies to.

[Bill Hayden]

She's gone. They took her prisoner.

[Matt Carson]

Here's the case, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thanks, man.

[Bill Hayden]

Forget about me, Sergeant. I've taken Mary. Go after him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Just as soon as I bandaged her head. Your wound isn't serious. Any idea how long ago you were shot?

[Bill Hayden]

We stopped just at noon.

[Sergeant Preston]

1:00. Matt and I got into Whitehorse shortly after you left, Bill. I was given your message, but it didn't say much. Just that there was trouble at the lake.

[Bill Hayden]

Red Carney has been selling whiskey to the Indians.

[Matt Carson]

Why of all.

[Narrator]

Can you prove that, Charles?

[Bill Hayden]

No. He's trying to run Jim out of business, Sergeant. He wants to buy our post for a measly $5,000. And he's doing everything he can to make Jim sell it. I'm sure he incited the Indians against us.

[Matt Carson]

He offered only 5,000. Why, the man's a thief.

[Bill Hayden]

I'll say he is. Place is worth 15 anyway.

[Matt Carson]

Exactly.

[Sergeant Preston]

There you are. You believe Red had anything to do with your being ambushed? I'm sure of the man with the bandana hiding his face.

[Bill Hayden]

Oh, no, no, that wasn't right. He isn't a kind to take chances himself. He doesn't have to with all our crooks and renegades he has working for him.

[Matt Carson]

A fine representative for the Yukon Trading Company.

[Sergeant Preston]

I agree. But the company post is the nearest shelter. Matt, will you take Bill's sled and drive him there.

[Matt Carson]

I'll be glad to.

[Bill Hayden]

I don't want to go to Red's post.

[Sergeant Preston]

Better go there. Bill, I'd like you and Matt to keep an eye on Red.

[Matt Carson]

You may depend on it. We shall, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

But, Mary, I'm going after him.

[Bill Hayden]

This storm, there'll be no trail to follow.

[Sergeant Preston]

Did you recognize any of the Indians?

[Bill Hayden]

One of them might have been sleeping. Bare.

[Sergeant Preston]

Isn't his village on Painted Creek? That's right north of the lake. Not far from Jim's place.

[Bill Hayden]

A few miles.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's where I'll start looking. And I'll stop at Jim's on the way to tell him what's happened. Here, I'll help you to your sled. Easy peasy. Easy.

[Narrator]

At that season of the year, it grew dark shortly after 2 o'clock. The northern lights were streaking across the sky. By the time Sergeant Preston reached Jim Kenyon's trading post. Jim opened the door as soon as the sergeant stopped his team.

[Jim Kenyon]

Sergeant Percy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, King. Jim, I have bad news.

[Jim Kenyon]

I'm the one who has bad news. Look what I just found. A note stuck in the door with.

[Sergeant Preston]

This knife, printed on wrapping paper.

[Jim Kenyon]

Mary's been taken prisoner.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know.

[Jim Kenyon]

How?

[Sergeant Preston]

We found Bill on the trail. Wounded friend of mine, Matt Carson has taken him to Red Carney's post.

[Jim Kenyon]

What happened?

[Sergeant Preston]

Your daughter and Bill were ambushed on the forest trail.

[Jim Kenyon]

They want me to pay ransom.

[Sergeant Preston]

$5,000 to be left near the big rock at the mouth of Painted Creek by midnight tomorrow, and your daughter will be returned safe.

[Jim Kenyon]

This is red. Connie's doing. $5,000. He knows I don't have that much cash at this time of the year. He knows the only way I could raise $5,000 by tomorrow would be by selling out to him. He hired Sleeping Bear. That crook, Louis Lamont, ambushed Billy Mary.

[Sergeant Preston]

I wish we could prove that.

[Jim Kenyon]

He's waiting for me to cross the lake. Waiting for me to come and begging for money. I'll have to do it, Sergeant. I can't take any chance with Mary's life.

[Sergeant Preston]

I have a suggestion.

[Jim Kenyon]

No, no, no, no. I don't want you to try to find Mary. Those crooks might kill her if they thought you were after them.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, they might. That wasn't my suggestion.

[Jim Kenyon]

What, then?

[Sergeant Preston]

I'd like to write a ransom note for you to show to Red.

[Jim Kenyon]

I don't understand.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do you have any wrapping paper?

[Jim Kenyon]

Sure. Plenty of it, right over here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good.

[Jim Kenyon]

Here you are.

[Sergeant Preston]

I want a piece just about the same size as this note. Well, that does it. How many rifles do you carry in stock?

[Jim Kenyon]

I have 24. Why?

[Sergeant Preston]

You suppose red has as many? Probably make it 48.

[Jim Kenyon]

What?

[Sergeant Preston]

Just a moment.

[Narrator]

The sergeant, printed with deliberate crudeness when he had finished, wrinkled the paper to give it the same appearance as the note which had been pinned to Jim's door.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now read it, Jim.

[Jim Kenyon]

What's this? 48 rifles and 10 cases of ammunition to be lifted. What's the idea?

[Sergeant Preston]

I want you to show this note to Red Carney and tell him that you have only 24 rifles in stock. I want you to ask him to sell you another 24 so you can meet this demand.

[Jim Kenyon]

He'll refuse.

[Sergeant Preston]

That wouldn't surprise me. But as you say, he's probably waiting for you to come and beg him for money. When you show him this note asking for rifles instead, you know something's wrong. I hope this note will make him afraid that his hired renegades mean to double cross him. My friend Matt and Bill aren't mentioning the fact that I'm around here. The Red. I don't want you to do it either.

[Jim Kenyon]

Then you'll not be coming with me?

[Narrator]

No.

[Jim Kenyon]

What will you be doing?

[Sergeant Preston]

I want you to wait for three hours before you start across the lake. That'll give me time to go to White Eagle's village.

[Jim Kenyon]

I'm sure White Eagle doesn't have anything to do with his.

[Sergeant Preston]

So am I. I may need his help. And I'm sure White Eagle would like nothing better than to rid this district of Sleeping Bear and his renegades. And men like Red, Connie and.

[Jim Kenyon]

And Louis, all of them.

[Sergeant Preston]

White Eagle knows what's good for his people.

[Jim Kenyon]

But, Sergeant, even if Sleeping Bear is the one who's holding Mary prisoner, it would be too dangerous to attack his village. We must think of her safety.

[Sergeant Preston]

I am Jim, Believe me.

[Jim Kenyon]

And all you want me to do.

[Sergeant Preston]

Is go to Carney and ask for the rifles and come back here and wait for me.

[Jim Kenyon]

Is that all?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's all. Leave the rest to White Eagle and me.

[Narrator]

It was hard for Jim to control his impatience. But he waited for the three hours the sergeant had asked before he started for Red Carney's post. He made the trip in two hours. When he entered the store, he found Red Tagish, Mike and Matt Carson sitting around the stove. Bill was lying on a cot in the corner.

[Red Carney]

Oh, dear.

[Jim Kenyon]

Have you rid. How are you, Bill?

[Narrator]

I'm all right.

[Red Carney]

This is Matt Carson, Jim. Seems he found Bill on the trail. Wounded brought him here. That was murdering redskins.

[Jim Kenyon]

I've heard from Mary. You have this note. Read it.

[Bill Hayden]

What does it say, Jim?

[Jim Kenyon]

They want 48 rifles and 10 cases of ammunition.

[Matt Carson]

That makes sense. That's the kind of ransom an Indian would think of.

[Jim Kenyon]

Why, Doctor, Pray, as you read.

[Red Carney]

Oh, not exactly. Well, it's dangerous to give him firearms.

[Jim Kenyon]

No more dangerous than to give them firewater. All I want to know is, will you sell me 24 rifles? I only had 24 myself and they're demanding 48.

[Red Carney]

You mean to follow these instructions?

[Jim Kenyon]

Of course.

[Red Carney]

Well, I'm not sure I have that many rifles. Come on, Tagus. We'll take a look in the storeroom. Okay.

[Bill Hayden]

Jim. Have you seen the sergeant?

[Jim Kenyon]

Yes, but he told me not to mention his name. Dread.

[Bill Hayden]

He told us the same thing.

[Jim Kenyon]

It was the sergeant who wrote the note. I showed Red.

[Matt Carson]

Then you haven't received a ransom note?

[Jim Kenyon]

The one I received asked for $5,000.

[Bill Hayden]

Just what Red offered you for the post.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Matt Carson]

It all works out, doesn't it?

[Bill Hayden]

Where's the sergeant now?

[Jim Kenyon]

I don't know. He was going to see White Eagle.

[Bill Hayden]

I told him what was Sleeping Bear I saw on the trail.

[Jim Kenyon]

He wants White Eagle to help him.

[Bill Hayden]

Help him do what? Quiet.

[Jim Kenyon]

Here they come.

[Red Carney]

Jim, I only have half a dozen rifles and stuff against barrel.

[Jim Kenyon]

Do you realize my daughter's life is in danger?

[Red Carney]

Can't help that. I can't give you any rifle.

[Jim Kenyon]

That's your last word?

[Red Carney]

My last word.

[Jim Kenyon]

Very well, then. I'll have to find him someplace.

[Narrator]

Hardly a word was spoken after Jim had left. Red suggested turning in early and at 10 o'clock the post was in darkness. At midnight, Bill was wakened by a.

[Jim Kenyon]

Touch on his shoulder.

[Matt Carson]

Bill, wake up.

[Bill Hayden]

Yeah, what is it?

[Matt Carson]

Red and Tagish have gone. Yeah, they took a dog team. Do you mind if I borrow yours?

[Bill Hayden]

You're gonna follow?

[Matt Carson]

Try to anyway.

[Bill Hayden]

Good luck. Be careful.

[Matt Carson]

I mean to be.

[Narrator]

There were only half a dozen cabins in Sleeping Bears Village. Mary Kenyon lay on a cot in the largest of them, her wrists and ankles bound. Louis Lamont and Sleeping Bear were playing cards by the light of a guttering candle. Both of them jumped to their feet as a dog team stopped outside. Louie ran to the window opening. He pulled back the deer skin that covered it.

[Red Carney]

Red and taggish. Mike.

[Jim Kenyon]

Boss.

[Red Carney]

What's the idea of coming here? What's the idea of trying to double cross me? Yeah, how about it?

[Narrator]

How about what?

[Red Carney]

Oh, you didn't write that ransom note, I suppose. Why, sure I wrote it, just like you.

[Mary Kenyon]

Tell me to wait until the Northwest Mounted hears that.

[Red Carney]

They'll never hear It. Sleeping Bear, did you deliver that note to the post?

[Sergeant Preston]

Sleeping Bear, do.

[Red Carney]

The note called for rifles and ammunition. You're crazy. I asked for $5,000.

[Narrator]

Don't lie.

[Red Carney]

I saw the note. And so did I. I saw what you were up to right away. You want to arm these dirty savages and then wipe us out at the post? Set yourself up as a little king, maybe.

[Jim Kenyon]

Of course.

[Red Carney]

I asked for $5,000. Ask the girl if you don't believe me. I showed her the note.

[Mary Kenyon]

He asked for money, all right.

[Red Carney]

Other than the one that Kenyon showed me.

[Bill Hayden]

It's a trick.

[Red Carney]

You should never have come here, Red. You might have been followed.

[Narrator]

You were followed, Red.

[Bill Hayden]

Sergeant Prince.

[Narrator]

Get him. Don't move, any of you. Chief, call for your men.

[Sergeant Preston]

This men can't help him. White Eagle and his braves have the whole village surrounded. You may come in now, Matt.

[Matt Carson]

Thanks, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

And take their guns.

[Narrator]

Right now.

[Sergeant Preston]

Then all of you are under arrest in the name of the Crown.

[Red Carney]

Where'd you come from?

[Sergeant Preston]

White Eagle, as braves and I were waiting in the forest behind your post when you left. We followed you.

[Red Carney]

Why? The only reason that I came here. I thought Louie and Sleeping Bear might be responsible for taking Mary prisoner. I wanted to plead with him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry, Mary. I don't. I'll cut those ropes.

[Narrator]

There.

[Mary Kenyon]

Thank you, Sergeant. He planned everything.

[Red Carney]

Oh, look, I'm not to blame. I was only following instructions. The Yukon Trading Company ordered me to get control of Kenyon's post. I had to follow orders.

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you have to say to that, Matt?

[Matt Carson]

He lies, of course. He was authorized to buy the post for 15,000.

[Mary Kenyon]

My dad would sell for that if he felt the Indians would be treated fairly.

[Matt Carson]

I wonder if he'd sell and stay on as manager, Mary?

[Mary Kenyon]

Why, I think so. It sounds like a fine offer. But who?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah.

[Red Carney]

Just who do you think you are to make such an offer?

[Sergeant Preston]

This is Matt Carson, Marion.

[Mary Kenyon]

How do you do?

[Matt Carson]

A pleasure, Miss Kenyon.

[Red Carney]

A pleasure, Miss Kenyon. Who do you think you are?

[Sergeant Preston]

He happens to be the new president of the Yukon Trading Company. Red. What?

[Matt Carson]

And you, Red, happen to be an ex employee.

[Sergeant Preston]

It's as simple as that. But losing your job shouldn't bother you. You and these others will be well occupied for the next 20 years behind bars. This case is close.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Here's a little game the whole family can play. See if you can fill in the missing words. Your turn first, mothers.

[Voice of the Audience]

The real value in breakfast cereals is.

[Narrator]

Well, that's easy, isn't it? The answer is Delicious Quaker Popped Wheat and Quaker Popped Rice.

[Voice of the Audience]

It's the deluxe breakfast topped with milk or cream and succulent fruit.

[Narrator]

And now dads, it's your turn.

[Voice of the Audience]

The outstanding taste of Quaker Popped Wheat and Rice is.

[Narrator]

Ah yes, dads know. It's the toasty nut like flavor of good natural grain.

[Voice of the Audience]

The sun ripened natural flavor that old Mother Nature puts into it.

[Narrator]

It's never coated with factory sweetener.

[Voice of the Audience]

And that's the beauty of Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. The whole family can sweeten them with sugar to suit their own special taste.

[Narrator]

And now let's quiz the youngsters.

[Voice of the Audience]

The ones shot from guns are made by.

[Narrator]

Sure you fellas and girls know that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns.

[Voice of the Audience]

Quaker Puff Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat are actually exploded up to eight times normal size.

[Narrator]

That's what makes them extra crisp and tender, bigger and better tasting.

[Voice of the Audience]

And everybody in the family knows that every spoonful gives you extra food values of restored natural grain, amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron.

[Narrator]

So for a delightful nourishing breakfast treat the whole family loves to eat, be sure to get delicious Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat.

[Voice of the Audience]

They come only in the big red and blue packages with the sealed inner lining that keeps them crisp as can be.

[Narrator]

And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty, Inspector.

[Bill Hayden]

Sergeant, there's been a robbery in Whitehorse. Two men held up the express office and took a bank shipment of cash and gold dust.

[Sergeant Preston]

Any special instructions, sir?

[Bill Hayden]

No, that's all the information I have. But bring in those crooks.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll do my best, Inspector.

[Narrator]

But what Preston thought might be a job of routine trailing turned out to be an unusual case involving a small boy and his dog. 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 Enterprises, directed by Fred Flowerday and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. 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 cereal shot from guns. The giant of the cereals is Quaker Oats. Delicious, nutritious, makes you feel ambitious. The giant of the cereals is Quaker Oats. Yes, fellas and girls, if you want to grow big and strong, eat Quaker Oats often. You get more strength, more energy from oatmeal than any other whole grain cereal. So tomorrow start eating delicious Quaker Oats, the giant of the cereals. Quaker and Mother's Oats are the same. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice along this is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Red Carney]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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 the following ranch hand Steve 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 copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.