Badge of Courage | Straight Arrow (03-17-49)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast
Episode: "Badge of Courage | Straight Arrow"
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: January 21, 2025

---

Overview

In this thrilling episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West with the classic radio drama "Straight Arrow." Digitally restored to enhance audio quality, this episode immerses the audience in a tale of injustice, courage, and redemption, featuring the legendary figure of Great Arrow. The story unfolds with high-stakes railroad construction, deceitful foremen, and the emergence of a heroic Native American protagonist determined to uphold justice.

---

Plot Summary

Brad Daly's Struggle and Injustice
The episode opens with Brad Daly, a young roustabout working for the Missouri Western Railroad, enduring grueling labor at the Endotrack camp. Daly's dedication is apparent as he "wrestled with railroad ties and heavy iron rails until his hands were flaming raw" (03:36). However, his fortunes take a dramatic turn when Daly is unjustly blamed for an accident involving a freight car. His foreman, Brewer, accuses him of failing to secure the brakes, leading to Daly's dismissal and public disgrace (07:00).

Encounter with Straight Arrow
Lost and desperate in the desert after leaving the camp, Daly experiences a mirage—a vision of a Comanche warrior dressed in war paint and a red feather headband. This apparition is none other than Straight Arrow, a mysterious and stalwart protector of the frontier. Straight Arrow, revealed to be Steve Adams in disguise, rescues Daly from the harsh environment (09:12).

Uncovering the Conspiracy
Daly learns from Straight Arrow that Brewer, along with a man named Trigger, is deliberately sabotaging the railroad's progress to ensure the Missouri Western loses its franchise. This conspiracy threatens the livelihood of many and poses a significant danger to the railroad's future (21:25). Straight Arrow assigns Daly the task of keeping an eye on Brewer, emphasizing the need for courage and integrity (22:00).

Confrontation and Redemption
As the plot thickens, Brewer and Trigger devise a plan to blow up a newly constructed trestle using dynamite loaded onto a work train (24:35). Straight Arrow and his companion Packy intercept them just in time. A tense standoff ensues on the trestle, where Straight Arrow successfully defuses the situation without triggering the explosion. Brewer and Trigger are apprehended, and Daly is honored for his bravery despite being wrongfully accused earlier (29:00).

---

Key Characters and Quotes

• Brad Daly
  A hardworking railroad worker wrongfully accused of negligence. His journey from disgrace to heroism highlights themes of resilience and justice.
  “I'm coming.” (04:19)
  “I'll show Brewer and the rest of them. They all take me for a coward. Someday I'll show him.” (08:10)

• Brewer
  The corrupt foreman responsible for sabotaging the railroad to undermine the Missouri Western. His deceitful tactics drive the central conflict.
  “Daily rules. Your foreman and an experienced railroad man. He wouldn't forget to set brakes on a downgrade.” (07:12)
  “Everything's going slick as a whistle.” (23:43)

• Straight Arrow (Steve Adams)
  The heroic Comanche warrior who takes on the mantle of Straight Arrow to protect the innocent and uphold justice. His transformation is symbolized by his red feather headband.
  “We shall find him. Savvy?” (26:14)
  “Do not worry, Brad. Fury and I arrived in time. There shall be no explosion.” (29:06)

• Packy
  Straight Arrow’s loyal companion, providing support and assisting in tracking the antagonists.
  “Well, you reckon that's the hombre with the black stitching?” (14:05)
  “There were two sidewinders. I heard him just before they grabbed me.” (27:24)

• Trigger
  Brewer’s henchman, involved in the sabotage plot and directly confronts Straight Arrow and Packy during the climactic trestle scene.
  “Gotta get up. What's that, Brewer? I’m paying you plenty for this job.” (15:18)
  “Nobody knows but you, Savvy? And you ain't gonna get a chance to talk.” (25:08)

---

Significant Events and Developments

1. Accusation and Disgrace (07:00):
   Brad Daly is wrongly blamed for a freight car accident, leading to his termination and tarnished reputation.

2. Rescue by Straight Arrow (08:10):
   Lost and dehydrated, Daly is saved by Straight Arrow, who reveals his true identity as Steve Adams, a rancher dedicated to justice.

3. Unveiling the Sabotage Plot (21:25):
   Straight Arrow discloses the malicious scheme by Brewer and Trigger to derail the railroad's progress deliberately.

4. Dynamite Plot and Confrontation (24:35):
   Brewer and Trigger plan to destroy the trestle with dynamite, endangering the railroad's future.

5. Heroic Intervention (29:00):
   Straight Arrow and Packy thwart the sabotage, arrest Brewer and Trigger, and restore Daly’s honor by bestowing upon him the red feather headband—a symbol of courage.

---

Themes and Insights

• Justice vs. Corruption: The episode highlights the struggle between genuine effort and corrupt practices, embodied by Daly's wrongful accusation and the sabotage by Brewer and Trigger.

• Courage and Redemption: Daly's transformation from a disgraced worker to a celebrated hero underlines the power of perseverance and moral courage.

• Cultural Representation: Straight Arrow's character brings a nuanced portrayal of Native American heroes in Western narratives, emphasizing honor and integrity.

• Community and Support: The alliance between Straight Arrow, Packy, and Daly showcases the strength found in unity and mutual support against wrongdoing.

---

Conclusion

"Badge of Courage | Straight Arrow" is a compelling installment that weaves action, drama, and moral lessons into the fabric of old-time Western storytelling. Through enhanced audio quality and faithful restoration, the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast delivers an engaging experience that honors the legacy of classic radio dramas. Listeners are left inspired by Brad Daly's journey and the unwavering dedication of Straight Arrow in maintaining justice on the untamed frontier.

---

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Brewer: "I just gotta get away. That's all. I just gotta get away." (08:10)

• Straight Arrow: "Do not reach for your guns, either one of you." (28:52)

• Brad Daly: "I had to try anyways, Red Man." (29:55)

• Straight Arrow: "You are not a coward, my friend. You ran out on the trestle." (29:43)

---

Additional Information

For more episodes and exclusive content, listeners are encouraged to visit otrwesterns.com, follow on Facebook, subscribe to the YouTube channel, or become a ranch hand through donations and participation.

---

Links to Transcript Sections

• 03:36
• 07:00
• 08:10
• 09:12
• 15:18
• 21:25
• 22:00
• 24:35
• 26:14
• 27:24
• 28:52
• 29:00
• 29:43
• 29:55

---

Disclaimer: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections as per the listener’s request.

Transcript

[Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you.

[Brewer]

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]

N A B I S C O Nabisco is the name to know for a breakfast you can't beat Fry Nabisco Shredded Wheat Keen eyes fixed on a flying target, A gleaming arrow set against a rawhide string, A strong bow bent almost to the breaking point. And then.

[Brewer]

Great Arrow.

[Narrator]

Nabisco Threaded Wheat presents Great Arrow a new thrilling adventure story from the exciting days of the Old West. To friends and neighbors alike, Steve Adams appeared to be nothing more than the young owner of the Broken Bow. Cattle spread, but when danger threatened innocent people, and when evildoers plotted against justice, then Steve Adams rancher disappeared, and in his place came a mysterious, stalwart Indian wearing the dress and war paint of a Comanche riding the great golden Palomino Fury galloping out of the darkness to take up the cause of law and order throughout the west comes the legendary figure of Great Arrow. Young Brad Daly had been working for the new Missouri Western Railroad for less than a month. He had been hired on at Council Bluffs, along with several hundred other roustabouts, then jounced on a flat car across half the country until the work train reached the railroad camp called Endotrack. He wrestled with railroad ties and heavy iron rails until his hands were flaming raw and his back turn felt as though it were broken. And then, through no fault of his own, Brad Daly was disgraced. A supply train was standing at the head of a steep grade near the end of the rails. Daly's foreman, a hulking bear of a man named Brewer, ordered him to help cut the last car loose oh, come on.

[Brewer]

Come on, Blaster Daily, get that pin loose. The flight train's gotta head back. They can't move till we cut out this car.

[Brad Daly]

Yeah, the pin won't come loose. Brewer, are you sure the brake is set?

[Brewer]

Of course it is.

[Brad Daly]

Well, it don't feel that way. The car's on a downgrade pulling against the coupling.

[Brewer]

Daily, stop loafing and get that coupling loose. If you're too puny weak to do it with your hands, bang it loose. Here. Yeah, here's the mall.

[Brad Daly]

Yeah, but this car.

[Brewer]

I know, I know. It might go crashing off the end of the track and be wrecked. Only the brakes on. Savvy? Now go on, hit that fin.

[Trigger]

All there. There.

[Brad Daly]

It was so tight.

[Brewer]

Now stop your blabbing and come on. There's more to do around here than just talk.

[Brad Daly]

I'm coming.

[Narrator]

Brewer.

[Brad Daly]

I just.

[Trigger]

Brewer.

[Brewer]

Yeah, we'll see.

[Brad Daly]

Brewer, the car. It's rolling loose. The brakes wasn't set.

[Trigger]

It's going to cr.

[Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job posts seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Narrator]

Say straight arrow fans, what's the March wind doing to your appetites? Blowing you home from school? Just a little hungrier than usual, I'll bet. So be sure to remember Nabisco Shredded Wheat for snacks. Yep, your favorite breakfast food really fills the bill for after school refreshments, too. And here's the time you can really splurge on the trimmings. Nabisco Shredded Wheat with maple syrup makes a really fine treat. Or Nabisco Shredded Wheat topped with mixed fruit. You get plenty, plenty of special energy and nourishment from delicious Nabisco Shredded Wheat, the original Niagara Falls product. Better get a package tomorrow. And be sure to listen after tonight's story to hear how you can get a bright Indian headband just like straight arrows without sending any money at endotrack. The railroad men cluster around the wrecked freight car.

[Trigger]

The whole car smashed to smithereens. Somebody will lose his job for this. Brewer, as work superintendent for this section of the Missouri Western, I demand an explanation.

[Brewer]

It wasn't me, Mr. Denning.

[Trigger]

I ain't saying it was. I'm asking.

[Brewer]

It was this tenderfoot Daily.

[Brad Daly]

Me. Look a here, Brewer.

[Brewer]

Yeah, you. You uncoupled that car, didn't you?

[Brad Daly]

Yeah, I did, but you.

[Brewer]

But nothing. You didn't even have sense enough to see that the brakes were set.

[Trigger]

That's all. Daily.

[Brad Daly]

It ain't. Mr. Denning, Brewer was with me.

[Narrator]

He said he set the brakes.

[Trigger]

That's a lot.

[Brad Daly]

It's not a lie.

[Trigger]

It's enough, both of you. Daily rules. Your foreman and an experienced railroad man. He wouldn't forget to set brakes on a downgrade.

[Brad Daly]

He's lying. It was him, not me.

[Brewer]

Daily, you're fired.

[Trigger]

Why you Daily. Trying to blame somebody else is the mark of a coward.

[Brad Daly]

Mr. Denning, I tell you, I'm sorry.

[Trigger]

There's no need to tell anything. Brewer's your foreman, and if he says it's your fault, it's your fault. Take care of this in your own way. Brewer. Brewer, you.

[Brad Daly]

You lying skunk. You putting the blame on me.

[Brewer]

There. That'll learn you to talk back. Now draw your pay and get off of this property. And don't ever come back. Savvy?

[Narrator]

Young Brad Daly, his cheek aching from the slash of the foreman's fist and his heart aching with the knowledge that he had been unjustly accused, left the railroad camp, blundered blindly out across the prairie.

[Brad Daly]

I'll show Brewer and the rest of them. They all take me for a coward. Someday I'll show him. Now, I gotta get away. That's all. I just gotta get away.

[Narrator]

But to someone unfamiliar with them, the wide plains can be unfriendly. Soon, Brad was lost. His feet and eyes grew heavy. He began to stagger. And then came parching thirst.

[Brad Daly]

Water. I gotta find water. Must be somewhere around someways.

[Straight Arrow]

Gotta get up.

[Brad Daly]

I gotta fight. What's that? I. I'm seeing things. Mirage, that's what. Yeah, a mirage. Right there in front of me. A red man. A painted red man. I really can't be. It was just a mirage.

[Trigger]

Water.

[Brad Daly]

Water. I got a.

[Brewer]

Whoa, Fury.

[Packy]

But I kept you straight here.

[Narrator]

You're right.

[Packy]

There was someone standing here.

[Straight Arrow]

Teddy Fury.

[Packy]

Hey, he looks kind of young.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, Packy. No horse, no water. Not even a gun.

[Packy]

Well, then what in blazes is he doing out here?

[Straight Arrow]

He will be all Right as. As he is somewhat. Here. Take him across your saddle.

[Packy]

He know straight there.

[Straight Arrow]

Take him back to the broken bowl, Packy. I will join you later.

[Packy]

You want to talk to him?

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, I shall talk to him. But not a straight arrow. When he opens his eyes and sees me, I shall be Steve Adams. Well, now, I'm beginning to get this daily. So the foreman, Brewer, put the blame on you for his own carelessness?

[Brad Daly]

Yeah, that's right, Mr. Adams.

[Trigger]

Yeah.

[Brad Daly]

It's mighty nice of you to take me in this way Back you here had enough?

[Packy]

Why, shuck, son. Don't thank me. Wasn't me spotted you it was. Well, that is, I mean, funny thing.

[Brad Daly]

Just before I passed out, I seen a mirage.

[Packy]

A mirage?

[Brad Daly]

I thought I seen an Injun Comanche. Riding a great palomino horse. Dressed all in war paint and wearing a headband. A red feather headband. It was very strange.

[Packy]

Well, now, that ain't so strange. There is such.

[Straight Arrow]

Brad here is tired. He needs sleep. Don't you, Brad?

[Brad Daly]

Yes, I do, Mr. Adams.

[Straight Arrow]

And don't you fret about that railroad business. If Brewer wrecked that freight car.

[Brad Daly]

He did.

[Straight Arrow]

He didn't.

[Brad Daly]

He blamed me. I could never prove it. He forgot those breaks.

[Straight Arrow]

Maybe he didn't forget, huh?

[Brad Daly]

You mean he done it on purpose?

[Straight Arrow]

But why, Brad? You get yourself some sleep, Sammy. Rest up. You'll need it.

[Packy]

Good night, Brad.

[Brad Daly]

Night. Night, Mr. Adams.

[Straight Arrow]

Night, Packy. Saddle up. We're riding out.

[Packy]

Watch that, Steve. Riding where?

[Straight Arrow]

The railroad camp, Packy. End of track. I'm curious to have a look at this. Brewer.

[Narrator]

Endotrack was a roaring, wide open town. Crowds of laborers filled the streets and poured in and out of the many cafes. Steve and Paki hitched their ponies outside the biggest cafe and went in. They soon spotted Brewer.

[Packy]

From Brad Daly's description, I reckon that's him yonder.

[Narrator]

Steve.

[Packy]

Down the fur in.

[Straight Arrow]

Brad said he looked like a grizzly. That's Brewer right now.

[Packy]

Bought umbre he's talking to. I don't look like no railroad man now.

[Straight Arrow]

Black Stetson and two guns strapped low.

[Packy]

Appears like a mean Custer to me.

[Brewer]

Brewer. Brewer.

[Packy]

Hey, somebody's calling him.

[Brewer]

Hey, right over here, Mr. Denning.

[Packy]

Denning, Steve, that's the railroad superintendent.

[Straight Arrow]

Ty, did you notice that man who was with Brewer? He slipped out prado as soon as Denning called.

[Trigger]

Yeah. Wonder why.

[Straight Arrow]

We'll find out later, partner. Right now I'm curious to hear what Denning's got to say.

[Trigger]

Let's mosey up a little closer.

[Brewer]

Evening, Mr. Denning. Something on your mind?

[Trigger]

Yes, Brewer. There's been too many accidents lately, huh?

[Brewer]

Getting complaints from back east, eh?

[Trigger]

We're away behind schedule, Brewer. Way behind schedule. We don't speed up, we lose our contract. The Missouri Western will go broke.

[Brewer]

Yeah, it's too bad.

[Trigger]

Frankly, I'm worried. Now, take this trestle over Bearcroft Canyon. If it isn't finished by next week, it will be. Well, can I count on that?

[Brewer]

I give you My word, Mr. Denning. That trestle will be up easy by next week.

[Trigger]

Well, I hope so. It's got to be. Well, that's all I wanted to talk about, Brewer. Just keep the men busy, understand?

[Brewer]

Sure, sure.

[Trigger]

You know, sometimes I wonder if.

[Brewer]

If what?

[Trigger]

If these accidents might be deliberate.

[Brewer]

You mean somebody ought to stop the railroad?

[Trigger]

Yes.

[Brewer]

Oh, no. Who'd do that?

[Trigger]

Well, I don't know, and I'm probably mistaken. I hope so. Well, that's all, Brewer. Good night.

[Brewer]

Night. Mr. Denning sure got the wool pulled over his eyes asking me about them accidents. Me, trestle over Barrackslock Canyon, huh? Reckon I better have a little confab with Trigger about that right now.

[Straight Arrow]

Sorry, mister, I didn't notice.

[Brewer]

Well, next time, make certain you do. Now, stand to one side. I'm in a rush.

[Packy]

Did you hear that Paki Chino, Steve? A jerk named Trigger. You reckon that's the hombre with the black stitching? The one who skipped out?

[Straight Arrow]

There goes Brewer. Out the back way, partner. Get to the ponies quick. We gotta trail him.

[Narrator]

By the light of the moon. Steve and Paki were able to keep the railroad foreman in sight. He cut away from the track out across the ferry. They followed until they saw him drop down into a small hollow thick with sagebrush and manzanita. A fire flickered in the hollow. And beside it, the firelight glinting off his guns was the man in the black Stetson.

[Trigger]

Whoa.

[Brewer]

Ho. Here, boy.

[Narrator]

Whoa.

[Straight Arrow]

Whoa.

[Trigger]

Yeah. Figured it was you, Brewer. But I told you not to trail out here, didn't I?

[Brewer]

No, no, don't get riled, Trigger. I had to come here. Yeah, instead of confab with Denny.

[Trigger]

What's that, Brewer? I'm paying you plenty for this job. If anything goes wrong.

[Brewer]

I tell you, it ain't going wrong.

[Trigger]

Well, it had better not. We keep these accidents a going, and the Missouri Western loses its franchise. Zappy. Then my outfit back in Council Bluffs takes over.

[Brewer]

Then we better play this close to the vest. Denning's getting worried. That makes it tough to fake any more accidents.

[Trigger]

I see.

[Brewer]

But I got a scheme, Trigger. Now, instead Of a lot of little things going wrong. Supposing something big happens.

[Trigger]

Big. Like what? Well, like. Huh? Go on talking.

[Brewer]

What are you.

[Trigger]

Go on talking, I said. Don't say nothing important. Savvy? Go on.

[Brewer]

Oh, well, like I said, me and Denning chewed the fat a while over at End of Track.

[Trigger]

Is he a rifle loaded brewer?

[Brewer]

Yeah, yeah. What's up?

[Trigger]

Somebody spying on us? Up on the rise. We can just make him out again the sky.

[Narrator]

Who is it?

[Trigger]

I don't know. But I'm gonna blast him to kingdom come. War talk.

[Brewer]

Yeah, yeah. Denning says the railroad construction is going ahead too slow. Something's gotta be done to speed it up. Are they. They still there?

[Narrator]

Trigger?

[Trigger]

I got the rifle aimed right over the back of your horse.

[Brewer]

Had an accident the other day, Trigger. A young punk named Daly busted up a whole freight car. And I think you're gonna shoot.

[Trigger]

Yeah. Yeah, brother. Right now.

[Narrator]

Two quick shots into the darkness from Trigger's blazing gun. Did those swift bullets reach their mark? And what's happened to our friends Straight Arrow and Paki? I wish I knew the answers, don't you? But here's an answer I do know. The answer to more healthful, appetizing breakfasts for all you Straight Arrow fans. You'll find it right in that original Niagara Falls package of good Nabisco Shredded Wheat. It's all fine natural nourishment because Nabisco Shredded Wheat is made from important whole grains. And that golden whole wheat is steamed, shredded and baked so carefully that it loses none of its original goodness. You'll be all for boosting your good health score with a big bowl full of energy giving Nabisco Shredded Wheat every morning. There will be variety of plenty because Nabisco Shredded Wheat is so good, so many different ways. Remind mother to put the original Niagara Falls healthful Nabisco Shredded Wheat on her grocery list for tomorrow. And better put your order in for your Straight Arrow headband. Listen for mailing instructions right after today's story.

[Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on Indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed. And listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get Your jobs. More visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Narrator]

When young Brad Daly is blamed for wrecking a freight car and wanders off into the desert, he is rescued by Straight Arrow and Paki and taken to the Broken Bow Ranch. Certain that Brad has been unjustly accused, Straight Arrow goes out as Steve Adams. He and Paki trail Brad's foreman, a man named Brewer, to a rendezvous where he meets a man named Trigger. But Trigger has spotted them in the darkness and reaches for his rifle. Steve catches the glint of moonlight on a rifle barrel.

[Straight Arrow]

Paki. Watch out.

[Trigger]

Steve.

[Packy]

I sure thought my number was up. That bullet come close enough to singe my whiskers. If you hadn't spotted him entirely.

[Straight Arrow]

Those two are scheming something.

[Packy]

They sure enough are.

[Straight Arrow]

Last thing I recollect Brewer saying was, instead of a lot of little things going wrong, suppose something big happened.

[Packy]

Something big? What was he driving at, Steve?

[Straight Arrow]

I don't know. But we'll keep after him. Savvy? Keep after him night and day.

[Packy]

You're the boss.

[Straight Arrow]

And young Brad Daly can help us. Back to the Broken Bow, Packy. I'll join you at dawn.

[Packy]

You join Steve. You ain't riding with me?

[Straight Arrow]

No, I'm heading for.

[Packy]

For Sundown Valley and Hidden Cave.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, partner. The cave is Straight Arrow. Hit up there, Pony.

[Brewer]

Hit it.

[Narrator]

A mysterious valley, a hidden cave known only to Steve Adams and Paki. Its walls glitter with gold. And in the cave stands the great golden Palomino Fury.

[Trigger]

Easy.

[Narrator]

Their fury now. Out of these clothes, a Comanche bow and arrows hang on the wall. There is Comanche war paint. Comanche garb. In a moment, Steve Adams, rancher, is gone. And in his place, Steady Fury.

[Straight Arrow]

It is I, Straight Arrow.

[Narrator]

A clatter of hoofs in the vast vaulted cave. An Indian war hoop that rings from the glittering rock. Out into the open gallops the great golden Palomino Fury. And riding bareback, clad in Indian garb from head to toe, Straight Arrow on the trail of justice.

[Straight Arrow]

Upgrade, stallion. Kaniwa Fury. Daly. Brad Daly, Wake up.

[Packy]

And he's rousing. Up Straighter.

[Straight Arrow]

Brad.

[Trigger]

Yep.

[Brad Daly]

Somebody called me. Oh. Oh, morning, Pack.

[Trigger]

Yeah.

[Brad Daly]

Red man, Packy. It's a mirage.

[Straight Arrow]

No, my friend. No mirage.

[Brad Daly]

But you're the same. Just exact Comanche outfit. War Paint. And that red feather headband.

[Packy]

This here is Straight Arrow, Brad.

[Brad Daly]

Straight Arrow.

[Straight Arrow]

Gosh, I've heard of him, Brad. The railroad is in danger.

[Brad Daly]

The railroad.

[Packy]

You was right about that Brewer varmint, Brad. He's a pole cat for certain.

[Straight Arrow]

Listen to me, Brad. Brewer deliberately wrecked that freight car. He and the man named Trigger are doing all they can to slow down work to make the Missouri Western lose its franchise.

[Brad Daly]

So that's it. That's why the skunk put the blame on me.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes. And now they are planning something bigger. Something much bigger. What we do not yet know, Brad. And there is but one way to find out.

[Brad Daly]

Somebody's got to keep tab on him, huh?

[Straight Arrow]

Mackie and I shall be on the trail of the one called Trigger. But as for Brewer, that shall be your job.

[Brad Daly]

My job? I don't savvy, red man.

[Straight Arrow]

Someone must be close by. Right in with the railroad men, you mean.

[Brad Daly]

I.

[Straight Arrow]

If you apologize to Brewer, he will take you on once more. I am certain Straighter is right.

[Packy]

Brad Brewer figure you handy to have around for alibi in case there's another accident. And we know he's planning one.

[Straight Arrow]

Go to him and apologize.

[Brad Daly]

Apologize? I can't not.

[Straight Arrow]

You must, red man.

[Brad Daly]

I just can't crawl back. Everybody will laugh at me. They got me branded for a coward because I didn't face up to Brewer last time.

[Straight Arrow]

Brad, look here. Do you see this?

[Trigger]

Yeah.

[Brad Daly]

It's your headband.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes. The red feather headband of the Comanche. Only those who are brave may wear it.

[Brad Daly]

The red feather headband, you mean. Someday, if I do like you say, I might earn one of them.

[Straight Arrow]

You must go back, Brad.

[Brad Daly]

All right. All right, Straight Arrow, I'll do it.

[Narrator]

Things happened just as Straight Arrow had anticipated at first. When Brad Daly showed up at Endotrack and asked Brewer for his job the foreman laughed in his face.

[Brewer]

You back again, were you notice?

[Brad Daly]

I apologize. I need the job.

[Brewer]

I don't care if you wait a minute. Maybe I can use your. Yeah. Reckon I can make use of you.

[Trigger]

It's about time you showed, boy.

[Brewer]

Yeah, I've been busy, Trigger. Everything's going slick as a whistle.

[Trigger]

Fastly's all finished.

[Brewer]

Yeah? Yeah. Spanning clear across Bearclaw Canyon. And tomorrow a work train comes along, Trigger. A work train loaded with dynamite.

[Trigger]

Dynamite, huh? It's gonna cross the trestle tomorrow, Brewer. This is made to order. All we gotta do is.

[Brewer]

Yeah, just plant a couple of sticks of blasting powder on the trestle, light the fuse and when the dynamite train.

[Trigger]

Comes along, the powder goes off and kicks a dynamite train sky high. That'll put the kibosh on the Missouri Western once and for all.

[Brewer]

Yeah. Got the blasting potter handy for you?

[Trigger]

Yeah, I got it right over. Somebody spying on us again? This time we'll get him for certain.

[Brewer]

Where? I don't serve.

[Trigger]

Never mind. Just spur up your horse and come on now.

[Brewer]

Come on.

[Trigger]

Come on. How are you? Yeah, yeah.

[Brewer]

Busting out of the sage. He's got a paint horse over there too.

[Trigger]

He'll never get to it. We got your cold now. Keep your hands high.

[Packy]

Keno. Keno. I reckon you got me seen as I'm on foot and my Pete horse is too far off.

[Trigger]

Spying, huh?

[Packy]

Well, I figured I was.

[Trigger]

Well, here you was, Misty, except for one thing. I seen the gophers staring right at your hiding place. There's plum curious critters. Gophers.

[Packy]

You'll never get away with it, mister. You can't blow up that trestle.

[Narrator]

Shut up.

[Trigger]

Nobody knows but you, Savvy? And you ain't gonna get a chance to talk. Brewer, sling a rope around him.

[Brewer]

All right.

[Trigger]

Well, time up here and get busy fixing up that blasting powder.

[Narrator]

That night, Packy was to meet Straight Arrow and Brad not far from Endo Track. The red man and young dahlia were on time, but Packy did not appear.

[Brad Daly]

He's kind of late, ain't he?

[Straight Arrow]

Very late.

[Brad Daly]

Brad Roar went off somewhere this afternoon. You calculate he went to meet this Trigger gent?

[Straight Arrow]

Packie was to watch Trigger today.

[Brad Daly]

Maybe they caught him. Straight Arrow.

[Straight Arrow]

It appears they have, my friend.

[Brad Daly]

Gosh, what are we gonna do?

[Straight Arrow]

You go back to the railroad, Brad. I shall find Paki.

[Brad Daly]

Well, can I help? There won't be any railroad work tomorrow, red man.

[Straight Arrow]

What is that?

[Brad Daly]

The Bearcaw Canyon trestle's all finished. More track's been laid further west. But we're out of dynamite. We can't do any more till some gets through from the east. There's a work train full of it due in tomorrow.

[Straight Arrow]

A work train with dynamite?

[Brad Daly]

Yeah. Something puzzling you, Straight Arrow?

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, Brad. A great deal.

[Brad Daly]

You figure them varmints are up to something?

[Straight Arrow]

It is better not to guess. Go back to the railroad. Keep your eyes on Brewer, Fury and I shall go after Paki.

[Brad Daly]

But how can you. It's docked. There's no trailer.

[Straight Arrow]

We shall find him. Manitoa.

[Brewer]

Fury.

[Brad Daly]

Adios, red man. Come on, Pony. Back to the railroad. I sure hope nothing goes wrong.

[Narrator]

All night long, Straight Arrow and Fury searched for Paki. But not until dawn did the red man cut the trail of two horses.

[Straight Arrow]

Two horses? Fury, heading toward the railroad. Only a few hours ago, Trigger and Brewer.

[Narrator]

No, no.

[Straight Arrow]

Palomino. Let Them go. We search for Paki back along their trail, huh, Fury?

[Narrator]

Soon the red man located the campfire where the two bad men had talked. And a short while later.

[Brewer]

Ho, Fury.

[Straight Arrow]

Ho, Hacky. Steady, Fury. Easy, my friend. These ropes are tight. There. Now for that gag.

[Trigger]

There.

[Packy]

Straight Arrow. Straight arrow. The trestle.

[Straight Arrow]

What's that?

[Packy]

Them two sidewinders. I heard him just before they grabbed me. They're planning to blow up the trestle. And they're fixing to do it just as a work train's coming over. A work train loaded with dynamite?

[Straight Arrow]

Train loaded with Paki. Where is your horse? Where is Payne?

[Packy]

I don't know. He's grazing somewhere around. I'll have to.

[Straight Arrow]

There may not be time. When is the work train due?

[Packy]

I dunno. But from the way they was talkin I reckon sometime this morning.

[Straight Arrow]

Then I go alone. Fury. Great stallion.

[Trigger]

Up.

[Straight Arrow]

Faster than ever before. Up, Palamino.

[Packy]

Good luck, String.

[Trigger]

There.

[Brewer]

That's the last stick of dynamite.

[Straight Arrow]

Trigger. Fuse is all set.

[Trigger]

Yeah. Boo. We'll set him ablaze as soon as we hear the work train.

[Brewer]

Ought to be along anytime, Trigger.

[Trigger]

That's it.

[Brewer]

The train whistle.

[Brad Daly]

All right, come on.

[Brewer]

Like them fuses?

[Trigger]

Sure. Yeah, it's a step. Now, come on, let's get off this trestle before they blow right up.

[Brewer]

Hey, it's Daily. He spotted us.

[Brad Daly]

You can't get away with that.

[Packy]

I'm coming after you.

[Brewer]

He's shooting at us. Out.

[Packy]

No, Brewer.

[Trigger]

Don't be loco. Let him come. You get here just the time this blasting powder goes off. Run. We can make it to the other end before the train shows up.

[Brewer]

What's that?

[Trigger]

A red man. You bring his horse right out on the railroad ties.

[Narrator]

Do not reach for your guns, either one of you.

[Brewer]

Put out those juices. You can't make us at once.

[Straight Arrow]

Or my next arrow finds you as the target.

[Brewer]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Anything you say, red man. Anything.

[Trigger]

Well, go on, get busy then.

[Brewer]

There.

[Straight Arrow]

That is better.

[Brad Daly]

Straight Arrow. Straight arrow. I seen him. Blast.

[Straight Arrow]

Do not worry, Brad. Fury and I arrived in time. There shall be no explosion.

[Trigger]

What are we standing here for? You loco? The train is coming. It'll bust us wide open.

[Straight Arrow]

Train is not coming.

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Straight Arrow]

It halted beyond the bend. Red man.

[Brad Daly]

You stopped at first, yes.

[Straight Arrow]

Now come. These two must be handed over to the law. And as for you, I give you this.

[Brad Daly]

The red feather headband.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, Brad. The red feather headband. The badge of courage.

[Brad Daly]

Badge of courage? But I didn't do nothing. Was you who nabbed these sidewinders.

[Straight Arrow]

Perhaps so. But you are not a coward, my friend. You ran out on the trestle.

[Brad Daly]

But gosh, I had to.

[Straight Arrow]

Even though you might have been too late, the blasting powder might have gone off and ended your life.

[Brad Daly]

I had to try anyways, Red Man.

[Straight Arrow]

Yes, you had to try. You risked your life, Brad, and that is courage. Take the red feather headband and wear it proudly. Straight Arrow salute you.

[Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job posts seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Narrator]

Look sharp there, Straight Arrow fans. If you haven't already written for your handsome Straight Arrow headband, better get writing now. Yes, just two more weeks on that exciting free offer of a fine red feathered Indian headband, the same badge of courage that Straight Arrow bestowed upon Brad Daly in today's story. Just send your name and address and a Nabisco Shredded Wheat box top to Nabisco Shredded Wheat Department A. That's A as in Able Box 2 6, New York 8, New York. In just a few days, you'll receive your brightly feathered Straight Arrow headband. Remember only one Nabisco Shredded Wheat box top, but no money needed for this exciting souvenir of Straight Arrow. Here's that address again. Nabisco Shredded Wheat Department A AS Enabled Box 26, New York 8, New York. Write for your official Straight Arrow headband today and every day. Eat good wholesome Nabisco Shredded Wheat in the original Niagara Paul's Package.

[Straight Arrow]

Huster Palamino Honey.

[Narrator]

Ride with Straight Arrow. More thrilling adventures of the Old west brought to you by the makers of Nabisco Threaded Wheat. Hit the trail with Straight Arrow. Listen again Monday night at 8:00 Eastern Standard Time over most of these same stations for another adventure with Straight Arrow. This program came from Hollywood. Tomorrow at this same time, you'll hear the Adventures of Superman. Stay tuned now for Captain Midnight, which follows over most of these stations in just a moment. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Brewer]

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 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 707-1986-8739 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.

[Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job posts seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, Sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.