Audition Program | Hopalong Cassidy (08-11-41)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns – “Audition Program | Hopalong Cassidy (08-11-41)”

Date: March 27, 2026
Host: Andrew Rhynes

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns spotlights the original 1941 pilot (“audition program”) of Hopalong Cassidy. Hosted by Andrew Rhynes, it’s an immersive journey into the origins of the beloved Western hero as the creative team experiments with the format and character. This foundational episode establishes Hopalong Cassidy’s world—combining intrigue, humor, and classic Western atmosphere as Hoppy attempts to unravel a series of cattle thefts.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Summary

1. Introduction & Origins

[00:58–01:30]

• Host Introduction: Andrew Rhynes briefly frames the context of the audition episode, noting its experimental status and significance in shaping the Hopalong Cassidy series.
• Series Background: Introduction of Hopalong Cassidy as a popular Western character created by Clarence E. Mulford, already a film favorite and now auditioning for the radio.
  • Quote (Hopalong Cassidy, 01:30): “From Hollywood, California, the Columbia Broadcasting System presents Hopalong Cassidy... the greatest of all cowboys in fact or fancy.”

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2. Meet the Bar 20 Ranch Crew

[02:45–04:12]

• Hopalong’s Role: Cassidy is established as a righteous cowboy and foreman of the Bar 20 Ranch, a figure both admired and feared across the West.
• Character Dynamic: The camaraderie among Hoppy and his crew is highlighted through banter, music, and Western hospitality.
  • Quote (Hopalong Cassidy, 04:12): “The whole west is Hopalong Cassidy’s range, but Hoppy and his pals are happiest when they’re at home on the Bar 20...”

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3. Judge Marlin’s Trouble: The Cattle Theft Mystery

[05:50–10:09]

• Plot Catalyst: Buck brings news that Judge Marlin is in dire straits after his wife’s death and a series of cattle thefts that threaten his ranch.
• Suspicion Falls on Crandall: Judge Marlin is pressured to sell his ranch to the shady Clark Crandall, whom everyone distrusts.
  • Key Quote (Judge Marlin, 07:59): “We’ve been losing too many cattle lately. Somebody’s been running them off a few at a time, and it’s getting to the point where we don’t know what to do.”
  • Quote (Myra, 08:44): “Some money is right. Just about enough to pay what we owe on the place and leave us with nothing.”

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4. An Offer to Help—and Undercover Work Begins

[09:28–10:58]

• Hoppy Investigates: Cassidy offers to help, opting to investigate under the guise of a cattle-buying trip. Tension simmers as Myra, the Judge’s daughter, expresses skepticism about Crandall.
• Secret Alliances & Warnings: Bart, Judge Marlin’s nephew, warns Cassidy that Crandall “is gunning for you.” The peril is palpable.
  • Quote (Bart, 10:27): “Clark Crandall’s gunning for you. He knows you’re here. Take my tip and be on your guard every minute.”

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5. Action at the Paradise Saloon

[12:02–16:19]

• Classic Western Flavor: Hoppy, California, and Johnny trail suspect activity to town, stopping by the Paradise Saloon. California provides comic relief with his braggadocio and tales of “the tough towns.”

• Confrontation with Crandall: Tensions erupt as Cassidy and Crandall face off for the first time, trading veiled threats.

  • Showdown Dialogue:
    • Crandall (15:27): “You’re off your range, ain’t you?”
    • Cassidy (15:30): “I’ve always made a habit of riding where I wanted to, Crandall.”

• Barfight and Escape: A fight breaks out; Hoppy’s crew holds their own, and they narrowly escape amid flying fists and gunfire.

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6. Solving the Mystery—Tracking the Cattle

[18:13–22:48]

• Trail to the Waterfall: Hoppy and crew follow the signs of vanished herds to Shoshoki Falls, suspecting an elaborate rustling operation.

  • Quote (Cassidy, 19:00): “So the only place for them to go is right through that waterfall.”

• Cave Discovery: Behind the falls, the group discovers a hidden cave and lost cattle—a perfect rustler’s hideout.

  • Quote (Judge Marlin, 21:30): “Every head of cattle that’s been stolen from me is right here. And a lot of others, too.”

• Trap and Peril: The group becomes trapped when the entrance is blasted by Bart (revealed as a traitor), water rising dangerously.

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7. Ingenious Escape: The Legend of Shoshoki

[24:43–26:13]

• Clever Clues: Cassidy deduces the “Shoshoki” name hints at “long steps”—a Shoshone reference to secret stone stairs out of the cave.
  • Quote (Bob Moon, 26:17): “In the Shoshone language, the word shoki means long steps.”
• Breaking Free: The group clears the rubble and escapes via the hidden steps, putting the final clues together about Bart and Crandall’s conspiracy.

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8. Showdown and Resolution

[26:43–28:39]

• Confronting the Villains: Hoppy and the Judge eavesdrop and confront Crandall and Bart, catching them in the act as they discuss their treachery.
  • Quote (Crandall, 27:07): “I made a deal with you to run off the Judge’s cattle so I could buy the ranch.”
• Justice Restored: After another shootout, law and order are reestablished. Bart and Crandall’s schemes are revealed, and the Marlin ranch is saved.

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9. Epilogue: Return to Bar 20

[28:09–29:05]

• Farewells and Flirtations: Hoppy’s crew says their goodbyes; Johnny tries to convince Myra to move to Arizona but is gently rebuffed.
  • Charming Moment (Johnny & Myra, 28:22–28:33):
    • Johnny: “Are you sure you wouldn’t like to live in Arizona?”
    • Myra: “Sorry, Johnny, but I like it here.”
• Heroes Ride Off: The group mounts up and returns to Bar 20, ready for their next adventure.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “More than one outlaw has gone gunning for Hopalong Cassidy.” — Narrator, [03:31]
• “You let go of me. Oh, no, you don’t, sister. Come here. All right. Free T. Hopalong Cassidy.” — Hopalong Cassidy, [03:39]
• “If I ever take up rustling, I’m going to find me a place just like this.” — Hopalong Cassidy, [21:46]
• “No man ever lived to get trade shots with Hopalong Cassidy.” — Hopalong Cassidy, [27:34]

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Series Origin & Host Intro: [00:58–01:46]
• Theme & Character Establishment: [02:21–04:12]
• The Judge’s Problem / Cattle Rustling Setup: [05:50–09:53]
• Undercover Investigation / Warning from Bart: [09:53–10:58]
• Saloon Showdown with Crandall: [12:02–16:19]
• Tracking Rustlers to Waterfall Cave: [18:13–22:48]
• Discovery, Trap, and Escape: [22:52–26:15]
• Eavesdropping on Criminals & Showdown: [26:43–28:07]
• Resolution & Farewell: [28:09–29:05]

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Tone and Atmosphere

In keeping with the original audio, the tone blends adventure (“We’re going to trail that bushwhacker”—Hopalong, 11:38), camaraderie, humor, and the classic sense of justice central to Westerns. Comic moments—especially California’s tall tales—relieve the tension, while action and suspense keep listeners drawn in.

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Closing Thoughts

The Hopalong Cassidy audition episode delivers a classic Western tale: cattle-rustling intrigue, betrayal, gunfights, and loyal friendship. It deftly showcases why the series won over audiences and sets a sturdy foundation for Hopalong Cassidy’s transition from page and screen to radio.

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For fans and newcomers alike, this episode captures the spirit of golden age radio Westerns—rich with iconic characters, lively storytelling, and authentic period atmosphere.

Transcript

[Judge Marlin]

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[Tyler Redick]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Narrator/Singer]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

Which one?

[American Express Announcer]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Tyler Redick]

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and let's get into this Episode this episode is going to be Hopalong Cassidy. Original air dates is August 11, 1941 and in this episode, this is an audition episode. So the concepts are being worked out and trying to work out who the character Hopalong Cassidy is. This won't really represent what the rest of the series will be like, but this is kind of where it started. Let's get into this episode. The title of this episode is going to be Audition Program. I hope you enjoy and again, thanks for listening.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

From Hollywood, California, the Columbia Broadcasting System presents Hopalong Cassidy Great Western Character. Created by Clarence E. Mulford and brought to the screen for Paramount release by Harry Sherman. This is another new CBS program plainly marked for future reference.

[Bob Moon]

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[Tyler Redick]

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[Bob Moon]

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[Tyler Redick]

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[Narrator/Singer]

See that roaring cowboy riding down that lonesome trail. Wildlife shadow swam to the tune of his lonesome way where he riding home

[Hopalong Cassidy]

a roving cowboy Like a knight riding out of the west, a lone figure gallops through the prairies and mountains of the land. He loves lending a hand to those who need him Solving problems in his own way. The greatest of all cowboys in fact or fancy, the foreman of the famous Bar 20 Ranch. Here he comes. Hopalong Cassidy. We got there. Hello Hoppy. What's up? Russell is an eagle Pass. Hopalong Cassidy. Everywhere in the west, that name is feared by lawbreakers. Hurry up, you birds. Change them brands and let's get this herd moving. Boss, who's that coming? Holy smoke. Get moving. Every man for himself. Let's hop on, Cassidy. More than one outlaw has gone gunning for. Hop along, Cassidy.

[Bob Moon]

Well, Cassidy, it looks like I've got you where I want you at last. Careful, Benson, don't go for that gun

[Hopalong Cassidy]

right through the arm.

[Judge Marlin]

He ought to know better than to

[Hopalong Cassidy]

try and outdraw Hopalong Cassidy. Wherever folks are in trouble, Hopalong Cassidy is the man to fix it. You let go of me. Oh, no, you don't, sister. Come here. All right. Free T. Hopalong Cassidy.

[Narrator/Singer]

We'll roll, roll, roll Onto an unseen boat Swinging along to the song of the pioneer we'll ride, ride, ride over the de white Singing along to the song of the pioneer

[Hopalong Cassidy]

the whole west is Hopalong Cassidy's range But Hoppy and his pals are happiest when they're at home on the bar 20. The famous Buck Peters Ranch in Arizona, where Hoppy is foreman and where the top hands in the west gather in the bunk house at the end of the day. It's Johnny, Hopalong's protege, who is speaking. Hoppy, I found a break in the drift vents down in that west pasture.

[Bob Moon]

That so? I'll send one of the boys down tomorrow.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Okay?

[Bob Moon]

Right now I'd like to hear some music. How about a song, boys?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sure, Hoppy. Skinny's guitar just got here. Dick brought it out from town with the mail. Sure is pretty too, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

And listen,

[Narrator/Singer]

There's a round up in the sky I give my pony back to you There's a roundup in the sky I'm gonna burn my brand on the silvery height of a shooting star and take a ride to a land beyond the Great Divide to the roundup in the sky. There's a roundup in the sky.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy, here comes Buck. I wonder what he wants.

[Bob Moon]

Don't know. Guess I'll go outside and see. Hello, Happy boys. Sound pretty happy tonight. Yes, Buck. The roundup's over. They're celebrating. That's fine. Good fun. Huffy, I got a little job for you. Red Connors can run the place for a while. Sure he can. What's up? You remember Judge Marlin from down Twin Forks way? Why, sure. Went up into Utah for his wife's health. That's right. Well, I had a letter from him today. His wife passed on. The judge ain't as young as he used to be. Said in his letter that he's having trouble. Hmm. That's too bad. My hunch is that the Judge is having plenty of trouble. Hoppy, I thought it might be a good idea if you'd kind of drift up that way. Might be. You mind if I take Johnny and California along? Take anybody you want. Good. And by the way, let's just say that it's a cattle buying trick. Good idea. And give my best to the judge. I'll do that. Mighty nice of you to put us up in your own home, Judd.

[Judge Marlin]

Well, I'd have sure felt put out if you'd gone anywhere else, Hoppy.

[Myra]

Dad has told me so much about you, Mr. Cassidy. We've been hoping for a long time you might visit us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We'd been hoping too, if we'd known about your good cooking, Ms. Myra. Or if we'd have known that Judge had such a pretty daughter. There he goes again. Happy. Go on, California.

[Myra]

Oh, hello, boss.

[Bob Moon]

We're visitors.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Bart.

[Judge Marlin]

This is hopalong Cassidy and two of his boys from the bar. 20. Johnny Nelson in California. My nephew, Bart Collins.

[Bob Moon]

How do you do? Sorry I couldn't get back for dinner. Ed Crandall looking over the spread again. He sure is itching to buy it. You selling your ranch, Jude?

[Judge Marlin]

Well, I don't want a Hoppy, but it looks like I might have to.

[Bob Moon]

We've been losing too many cattle lately.

[Judge Marlin]

I had a fine big herd at one time, Hoppy, but somebody's been running them off a few at a time and getting to the point where we don't know what to do.

[Bob Moon]

Have you done anything about it, Judge?

[Judge Marlin]

All that we can. But every time we trail a herd, we wind up in the same place. They leave a plain trail over to Silver Creek, then they just disappear.

[Bob Moon]

I plot everything, I tell you. Whoever's taking these cattle is plenty smart, Hoppy.

[Judge Marlin]

It's got me licked. I'm afraid I'm gonna have to take Crandall's offer. And me with the best water rights in the country.

[Myra]

But, Dad, I don't trust Crandall.

[Bob Moon]

Now, look, Myra, I don't trust Crandall either. He's a bad actor, but still, he's offering you and Uncle Dan a chance to get some money out of the place. If he can't make a go of it.

[Myra]

Some money is right. Just about enough to pay what we owe on the place and leave us with nothing.

[Judge Marlin]

There's no use being bitter about it, Myra. That's the chance every cattle man takes But I hate the idea of selling to Crandall.

[Bob Moon]

We all feel the same way about Crandall and his way of doing business. Every honest man in the country hates the name of Clark Landrill. Clark Crandall, eh?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I wonder if he's the same one we know, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

Yep. Same one we ran out of Twin Forks, Johnny. Oh, I knew he was here, Judge. Knowing Crandall as I do, I like to have you hold up the sale until I get a chance to look things over. Now, wait a minute, Cassidy. We don't want to spoil the only offer we've got for the place.

[Myra]

I think Mr. Cassidy's right, Bart. If Crandall's so anxious to buy, he'll wait a few days more.

[Bob Moon]

Well, it's up to you and Uncle Dan, Myra. I want to do what's best for you.

[Judge Marlin]

Um, Hoppy, you've always been a good troubleshooter in cases like this.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Will you help us out?

[Bob Moon]

I'll be glad to, Judge. The boys and I will follow the trail of those missing herds first thing in the morning. That's fine. Maybe we can find something that's been overlooked before. You want to come with us, Bart? Oh, yes. Yeah, sure. Yeah, I'm going to be pretty busy with Crandall coming up and everything, but I'm sure I can find time to ride with you.

[Myra]

Oh, by the way, bart, I put Mr. Cassidy in California in your room. You sleep downstairs tonight.

[Bob Moon]

That's all right with me. I could sleep anywhere, but I'll be getting to bed. Turning in Cassidy. Yeah, I think I will. I did a lot of riding today. Come on, California Johnny, you can share

[Judge Marlin]

my room with me. You ready to turn in?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, I'm not sleepy, Judge. I think I'll just sit here for a while with Myra.

[Myra]

Oh, shall I get out the family album?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Bother. Johnny's just interested in looking at one member.

[Bob Moon]

Come on, California.

[Judge Marlin]

Good night, Alfie. Your room's right up the stairs.

[Bob Moon]

Thanks, Judge. Good night. See you in the morning, Bob. Oh, wait a minute, Cassidy. I didn't want to say anything in front of Myron the judge, but Clark Crandall's gunning for you. He knows you're here. He's been gunning for me for a long time. I know, but he means business. Take my tip and be on your guard every minute as long as you're here. Well, thanks, Bob. Good night. Come on, California. Good night.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, that mark's a pretty nice feller, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We never should have let Crandall out of Twin Forks.

[Judge Marlin]

Though.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah. Bad penny always turns up again somewhere. Here we are.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You got a match, Hoppy?

[Bob Moon]

No. Wait a minute. Stand over there.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What for?

[Bob Moon]

Where's the lamp?

[Myra]

Here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I can't see a thing. Oh, here it is.

[Bob Moon]

I'll put it on the table there. Now get over by the wall.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What's this all about, Hoppy?

[Bob Moon]

Stay out of sight. Now, California, let's see what happens. There's a light. Anybody's watching. They can see what's going on in here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, who'd be a watch? Put out that light.

[Bob Moon]

Just what I thought. Come on, California. Get Johnny and the horses. We're gonna trail that bushwhacker.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold on, boys. Slow down, boys.

[Bob Moon]

Right into.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sure. Just like we're mosying along and coming in to see the site. Shut puppy. I hear this is a tough town. Don't look like it to me. Was you ever in a tough town, California? Was I? Well, I was in Tombstone when it was booming. Now there was a tough town. I saw four shooting there just while I was tying up my horse. Have to blast a couple armbers myself. They come up to me spoiling for a fight. My sister California's dreaming again.

[Bob Moon]

Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What are we going to do with him?

[Bob Moon]

Just let him keep on bragging about how tough he is, John. Someday somebody will make improvement.

[Narrator/Singer]

Good.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'd like to see him try it. Why? Hey. Hey, Engines. Run for your life.

[Narrator/Singer]

Whoa. Whoa.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold on, California.

[Bob Moon]

That's just a shooting gallery, California.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Fine thing, Shooting gallery in a tough town like you. See him start running, Hoppy. Step right up and hit the bullseye.

[Bob Moon]

Why, I remember down in Tombstone.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shut up.

[Bob Moon]

Ah, never mind, old timer. Let's tie our horses here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Paradise Saloon, huh? Floors lit up like the hottest spot in town.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah, I reckon the trail leads right in there, boy. Remember now, California, not too many drinks.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Why, Hoppy, you know you never let me have nothing but sarsaparilla.

[Judge Marlin]

What'll it be for you, gentlemen?

[Bob Moon]

Oh, I'll have sarsaparilla all around.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's right. That's a very refreshing drink, California. Let's sit down here at this table

[Judge Marlin]

and listen to the music.

[Narrator/Singer]

O my darling when the lights are dim and low and the quiet shadows falling what become and talk before when the winds are starting faintly with the devil unknown Will you think of me and love me that you give us long ago.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, that was my pretty.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah, but we're here on business.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy. Look who's coming over. It's Crandall.

[Bob Moon]

He's our business. Just like old times. Welcome To Stoney Creek. Cassidy. I heard how well you were doing here, Crandall. Yeah. Thought I'd drop in and see you. Yeah, I sure appreciate that. But I guess you'll be moving on in the morning, won't you? Maybe. I know how it is on these cattle buying trips. You have to keep moving sometimes. There's a lot of fine stock up in Grass Valley. A lot of fine cattle here, too. Or there was till the rustlers moved in. Yeah. Too bad, ain't it? I think it is. You aiming to do something about it? Maybe. Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We're collecting the crowd.

[Bob Moon]

The tight Johnny Cassidy. You're off your range, ain't you? You? I've always made a habit of riding where I wanted to, Crandall. Things are different here than they were in Twin Forks. This time I'm in the saddle. And I'm warning you to keep your hands off. Sorry, Crandall. I'm not taking your advice. You got any more to say, you can find me at Judge Marlin's ranch. Come on, Bo. Get him a minute.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Get Deserty first. No, you don't. California, the light.

[Narrator/Singer]

You are.

[Myra]

Watch the door.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy. Oh, let him go. Yeah. Looks like we got the place to ourselves, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

I don't think we want it. Come on. Yeah, let's go outside. Hey, what you limping for, California? Who's limping? You are.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, I didn't.

[Bob Moon]

Nothing.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

One of them varmints kicked me in the shins. I'm very sorry, though.

[Bob Moon]

Wait a minute. Who's this coming?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You all right, Cassidy? It's fired.

[Bob Moon]

Sure, we're all right. Why? Well, you got away from the house in an awful hurry.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I heard the shot and by the

[Bob Moon]

time I got out of the house, you fellas were riding away. Yeah, we failed a bushwhacker into town. Did you find him? I don't know. But we had a talk with Crandall.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, and we had a lot of fun, too. We cleaned out the Paradise Saloon. I ought to see me eight men.

[Bob Moon]

You were lucky, Cassidy. That Crandall's a dangerous man. Frankly, he's got me worried. Maybe we can worry him some after we look over the ranch in the morning.

[Tyler Redick]

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[Judge Marlin]

Thousand head of my cattle have been driven up this stream, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

Rustlers always bring them this way.

[Judge Marlin]

Yep. When they get a little farther up, they just disappear. Right at Shoshokee Falls. Barts trail them time after time.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah, I don't know what to make of it. Cattle can't just fly away. Well, they walk this far. Plenty of signs of them along the banks here.

[Myra]

There's the waterfall right up ahead.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Say, right pretty spot. Isn't that romantic, Ms. Myra? You coming, California? Yep. What's the idea riding in the middle of the creek? Cause Hoppy says so. Come on. All right.

[Bob Moon]

Let's ride up on the bank here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come on, boy. Come on, boy. Come on, boy. So this is where the trail ends, right by the waterfall? Yep.

[Judge Marlin]

Ends right here, Hoppy. Right here. With no place to go?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We've got it both ways from here for miles and not a sign of it, friend. Well, I'd say there's only one answer to that. What do you mean, Hoppy? Cattle don't climb the cliffs and they don't stay here. So the only place for them to go is right through that waterfall. Where does that sit him? On the other side of the waterfall. Hi, horses. Let's go on in. Cut some torches from that dead tree, boy. How do you aim to get through, Cassidy? And water will pound you to pieces. It doesn't pound the cattle to pieces, Bob. Besides the little ledge that leads in there from the side, huh? Hu ain't a to walk under that water, are you? No. Going to climb along that ledge there and go in right behind me. It doesn't look very safe to me. Cassidy. We can get through. All right, Judge. I'll lead the way. You stay close to me. All right.

[Tyler Redick]

I'll help Myra.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You go ahead, California.

[Bob Moon]

I'll bring up the rear.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Watch your step now. Take my hand now, Myra, Wait up. He by fell. Landed right on a rock. Hey, let me see it, Bar. I know. Oh, don't worry about me. You go ahead. I'll be all right till you get back.

[Myra]

Are you sure you're all right?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sure, sure. Just help me at the bank, will you?

[Myra]

Yeah.

[Bob Moon]

Come on.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Okay.

[Tyler Redick]

All right.

[Bob Moon]

Here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We got him, puppy. You all go on with Cassidy. We've got to find out what's behind those falls.

[Bob Moon]

Too bad you can't go with us, Bar.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Now, come on, folks. Let's see where those cattle have been going. Right this way.

[Myra]

Hold on to me. I don't want to slip.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I will. Watch out for that water now.

[Judge Marlin]

Oh.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, it's cold. Too much water for me now. Now. Over that rock. I. Dark gone. We're in.

[Myra]

I didn't think we'd make it.

[Bob Moon]

Well, there's the answer to your disappearing cattle, Judge.

[Judge Marlin]

Looks like you hit it right on the head, Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Would you look at that? A regular cave. Back in here. Come on, let's get back to those falls. All right. Sure, he's peeking.

[Bob Moon]

Here.

[Myra]

I got soap coming through there, but it's worth it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Where do we go from here, Hoppy? The cave just scattered off in all them tunnels.

[Bob Moon]

Well, that's easy, California. There's the trail the cattle left leading

[Hopalong Cassidy]

right up that creek. Where do you suppose all that water comes from, Hoppy? It's way below the river that makes those falls.

[Bob Moon]

We'll soon find out this stream comes from the place we're going. Well, Judge, you're satisfied? Those are your brands?

[Judge Marlin]

That's right, Hoppy. Every head of cattle that's been stolen from me is right here. And a lot of others, too.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What a setup with those cliffs on all sides. Nobody can get into this canyon or out of it without going through the cave.

[Bob Moon]

And there's plenty of feed and water. That's the creek that flows through the cave.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

If I ever take up rustling, I'm going to find me a place just like this.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah, sure is ideal for that. But we'd better be getting out again. We've been here for a long time. Bots waiting for us outside.

[Myra]

Oh, I forgot all about Bar.

[Bob Moon]

Well, don't worry too much. I don't think he was hurt very bad.

[Judge Marlin]

Hoppy, I wonder if there could be another trail out of this canyon.

[Bob Moon]

If there is, Judge, we haven't got time to look for it. We'll go back the way we came home. All ready?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let's go.

[Judge Marlin]

All ready.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Take my arm, Myra, and I'll hold

[Myra]

on to you with one hand, Johnny. And on to Hoppy with the other.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Somebody shooting from that cliff. You'll never hit him with a colt at that range, Johnny. Everybody into the cave. Come on. Well, we're safe from that fella. Yeah. Here's a bum shot anyhow. I remember. Come on. Come on.

[Judge Marlin]

We got to hurry.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What's up?

[Bob Moon]

That must have been one of Crandall's men. Now that we Found their hideout. There's no time to lose.

[Judge Marlin]

I don't understand.

[Bob Moon]

This is our only way out. We'd better get out before they get around by that waterfall.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We go this way, down this tunnel.

[Bob Moon]

Oh, no, we don't. We follow the stream this way.

[Judge Marlin]

Well, here's where we left the torches.

[Bob Moon]

Get them lighted again. All right. We got a long way to go

[Hopalong Cassidy]

before we get to that waterfall.

[Myra]

Yeah.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We're hook near them as. Myra.

[Myra]

I hope we're in time.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Don't you worry, Myra. We've been in worse places than this, Ms. Hoppy, and we've always come out. Reminds me the time when I was trapped in a mine down there. Zona.

[Myra]

But we're not past California.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, neither was I. I got out all right. In fact, a rabbit dug me out. California's blowing another soap bubble.

[Myra]

California? You're just making that up.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, I'm not. Three days I was in there, and then I see this rabbit coming digging down through the ceiling kind of winks at me. And we start digging together, and the first thing you know, we're out on top. Oh, I sure was grateful to that rabbit. Except him for a pet. Fed him on carrots. He grew so big and tough on him, he just chased coyotes right off the ranch. California? I don't believe that.

[Myra]

What's the difference, Johnny? At least his yarns cheer us up.

[Judge Marlin]

There's the entrance way up ahead.

[Bob Moon]

Yeah, that's right.

[Myra]

Wait.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hobby. Isn't that a man crouching down?

[Bob Moon]

Yeah. Wait a minute.

[Judge Marlin]

Oh, it must be Bart.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, Bart. Quiet.

[Bob Moon]

Quiet.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's funny. He ran. Let's get up there.

[Bob Moon]

Oh, something's gone wrong here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Get back, all of you. He left something behind. You bet he did. Look out. Water's piling up awful fast, Hoppy.

[Bob Moon]

Sure it is. But the entrance blocked by that blast and that steam pouring in from the canyon.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You think we can make it back to the canyon?

[Bob Moon]

Not a chance. That low place in the tunnel's plum full of water by now.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, steady, Myra.

[Judge Marlin]

This is mighty serious.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy.

[Judge Marlin]

What do we do?

[Bob Moon]

Well, there may still be a way out, Judge, if we work fast. How? Something you said a while back gave me an idea. What did you say the name of these falls was?

[Judge Marlin]

Shoshoki Falls.

[Bob Moon]

Why, that's a Shoshone Indian name, isn't it? I guess so.

[Judge Marlin]

Lots of Shoshones in these parts.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shoshoki.

[Bob Moon]

Shoshoki. They must have meant that it was near the fall somewhere.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What do you mean, Hoppy?

[Bob Moon]

Never mind. Let's get going.

[Judge Marlin]

Which way?

[Bob Moon]

That's easy. See the smoke from these torches? Yeah. Air that's coming from the canyon can't get out down at the fall walls. But it's getting out someway. Cuz that smoke's moving and we're moving with it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, here's where your smoke goes, Hoppy.

[Judge Marlin]

Nothing but a pile of broken rock clear to the ceiling.

[Myra]

We'll never get out of here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Easy, Myra.

[Bob Moon]

Come on, Johnny California. We're going to clear this rock out by hand.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I've got right at the top. All right. If I ever get out of here, I'll never go through another waterfall. I never get like water anyway. Here, help me with this big. Here we go. Look out down there. Look out. Well, what do you know? Look through that hole.

[Bob Moon]

Well, kind of. Had a hunch. That's what we find.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hundreds of them. Cut right in the rock and going up to fresh air. Yippee. Let me add him.

[Bob Moon]

There's the Shoshone puppy.

[Myra]

Did you know we'd find this?

[Bob Moon]

Well, I wasn't sure, but in the Shoshone language the word shoki means long steps. Where's Crandall's office? Upstairs. But you can't go up. He's busy. But we're going up. Come on, Judge.

[Judge Marlin]

But Hoppy, I. I don't understand.

[Bob Moon]

I'm sorry, Judge. I'll show you something when we get upstairs. Johnny California, you stay there and see that we're not disturbed.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Right. Okay. Happy?

[Bob Moon]

Quiet now. Judge. I can hear him talking. You listen to me, Bart. I made a deal with you to run off the Judge's cattle so I could buy the ranch. My deal with you is washed up, Crandall. Oh, no, it isn't. I still want that ranch.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You might have had a chance of getting a Crandall if you finished custody when you had your chance last night.

[Bob Moon]

You missed the chance first.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You had a shot at him yourself last night through the window. But I got him today up there in the cave. And I got everything else I needed too. With a judge in my right of the way, the ranch belongs to me. And I don't need my deal with you now. Ran and cattle are legally mine.

[Bob Moon]

Now look here, youngster. I don't care what you did to your family and Cassidy's outfit. But I do know that nobody's running out on Clark Crandel. My men are here to back.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hey, you. Out the window. Stop him. Crandall. There's one thing you forgot. No man ever lived to get trade shots with Hopalong Cassidy.

[Bob Moon]

Hand me those Saddlebags, Johnny.

[Judge Marlin]

Well, Hoppy, I'm sure sorry to see you boys go. You helped us plenty.

[Bob Moon]

We're sorry to go too, Judd. Especially Johnny. Look at him over there with Myra.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Are you sure you wouldn't like to live in Arizona?

[Myra]

Sorry, Johnny, but I like it here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy says Arizona is the greatest place in the country.

[Myra]

If Hoppy would tell me that himself, it might be different.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, I. I see.

[Bob Moon]

Come on, Johnny, let's be riding.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Okay, Hoppy. Bye, Myra.

[Myra]

Goodbye, Johnny.

[Bob Moon]

Well, Johnny California, let's head for bar 20.

[Narrator/Singer]

Cowboys riding down that long. Well, they.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You have been listening to Hop Along Cassidy as presented for your approval in Columbia's Forecast series. This cowboy hero, favorite of screen going millions, can be seen at your local theater. Now in his latest picture, Wide Open Town. This famous Westerner has not until tonight been brought before the radio audience. Like class of 41, which you heard earlier, and like all other programs which Forecast presents, this was a SAFL broadcast intended to suggest the possibilities of a series based on an idea. If you enjoyed Hopalong Cassidy and would like to hear his adventures on the air regularly as a weekly half hour of entertainment, we should appreciate hearing from you by card or letter to your CBS station. Tonight's production was written and directed by Paul Pierce with music by Wilbur Hatch. Next Monday, in a complete full hour presentation from Hollywood, you will hear forecast number nine, Country Lawyer, an unusual dramatic show based on the famous Bellamy Partridge book of the same name and starring the distinguished stage and screen star Raymond massey. This is Mr. Massey. In this character plays against the varied background of life in a small town since the turn of the century. Coming into contact with the problems that confront the country lawyer in his community. Problems that deal with circus barkers and with murder trials, with love stories and with swindlers with marriages and mortgages, mail order frauds and malpractices. Carrying with him through them all the good humor and philosophy of the American way of life.

[Tyler Redick]

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[Hopalong Cassidy]

Until next Monday, then at forecast time. This is Bob Moon speaking. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Myra]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook join in the conversation by going to otrwesterns.Com Discord and don't forget to send us an email. Podcasttrwesterns.com this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and again, thanks for listening.

[Tyler Redick]

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[American Express Announcer]

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