Bayou Drums Mean Death – Hopalong Cassidy (10-27-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary Title: Bayou Drums Mean Death – Hopalong Cassidy (October 27, 1951)
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: May 15, 2025

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Introduction

In this gripping episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with Bayou Drums Mean Death, an original Hopalong Cassidy adventure aired on October 27, 1951. This digitally restored rendition breathes new life into the classic Western drama, featuring the heroic exploits of Hopalong Cassidy, portrayed by William Boyd, and his trusty sidekick, California Carlson, voiced by Andy Clyde. The story unfolds in the mysterious Louisiana bayous, weaving elements of suspense, voodoo, and betrayal into the rugged tapestry of the Wild West.

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Arrival at Levasseur Plantation

The episode begins with Hopalong Cassidy and California Carlson delivering a shipment of high-quality horses to Blanche Levasseur at her plantation in New Orleans. Blanche, a poised Southern aristocrat, insists that the cowboys stay as her guests, much to their initial plans of staying at the St. Charles. Blanche introduces herself with a touch of Southern charm and quickly establishes a sense of foreboding within the plantation.

Notable Quote:
Blanche Levasseur [03:26]: “I won’t hear of it. You’ll be much more comfortable at our plantation.”

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Unsettling Atmosphere and Voodoo Mysteries

As Hopalong and California settle into Levasseur House, Blanche reveals the plantation's troubled state, citing the unsettling activities of Haggar, a local witch and voodoo priestess. The field hands' unrest and mysterious ceremonies in the bayous add an eerie layer to the narrative, prompting the heroes to investigate the source of the disturbance.

Notable Quote:
Blanche Levasseur [05:22]: “Haggar is a witch… she’s been conducting secret ceremonies and rituals down in the bayous.”

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The Death Ruby and Suspicious Events

Blanche proudly showcases the "Death Ruby," a prized family heirloom with a dark history of violent deaths. Her intent to sell the ruby raises suspicions, especially when Josh, their driver, is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Hopalong’s keen sense detects foul play rather than supernatural forces, hinting at a more human antagonist.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy [10:15]: “That's a beautiful stone. So red, almost like blood.”

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Escalating Tensions and Supernatural Threats

Tensions escalate as Blanche expresses her fears about the plantation's safety, attributing the unrest to Haggar’s voodoo practices. The arrival of voodoo dolls and a poisonous snake in their room intensifies the suspense, leading to a scream that signals Josh's demise. Hopalong’s determination to uncover the truth contrasts with the superstitious fears of the other characters.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy [05:04]: “I'm not sure, Hoppy. Just a feeling of foreboding.”

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Investigation and Revelation of Betrayal

Determined to solve the mystery, Hopalong investigates Josh's death and discovers a poison needle planted by Philippe de Levasseur, Blanche's cousin. It becomes evident that Philippe orchestrated the murder to secure the ruby, revealing his betrayal and delving into themes of greed and family discord.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy [25:03]: “I found a poison needle he planted in the frame of the picture covering the panel where you kept the ruby.”

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Climactic Confrontation and Voodoo Unveiled

As the voodoo-induced rebellion brews, Hopalong confronts Haggar, exposing her as a mere pawn manipulated by Philippe's treacherous schemes. The supernatural elements are debunked, highlighting the real dangers of human deceit. The episode culminates in a fiery showdown where truth triumphs over superstition, and the protagonists avert disaster through courage and cunning.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy [25:17]: “The ruby was a fake… the voodoo stuff, it weren't real at all.”

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Conclusion

Bayou Drums Mean Death masterfully intertwines classic Western heroism with thrilling suspense and supernatural intrigue. Hopalong Cassidy and California Carlson navigate a labyrinth of deceit, voodoo legends, and familial betrayal to restore peace to the Levasseur Plantation. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Old Time Radio Westerns, offering listeners a rich and immersive experience into the adventurous spirit of the Wild West.

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Key Takeaways

• Heroism and Integrity: Hopalong Cassidy's unwavering commitment to justice uncovers the truth behind mysterious events.

• Superstition vs. Reality: The narrative explores the tension between supernatural beliefs and tangible threats, ultimately favoring rational investigation.

• Betrayal and Greed: Philippe de Levasseur's treachery serves as a central conflict, emphasizing the destructive nature of greed within family dynamics.

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Notable Quotes Compilation:

• Blanche Levasseur [03:26]: “I won’t hear of it. You’ll be much more comfortable at our plantation.”
• Blanche Levasseur [05:22]: “Haggar is a witch… she’s been conducting secret ceremonies and rituals down in the bayous.”
• Hopalong Cassidy [10:15]: “That's a beautiful stone. So red, almost like blood.”
• Hopalong Cassidy [05:04]: “I'm not sure, Hoppy. Just a feeling of foreboding.”
• Hopalong Cassidy [25:03]: “I found a poison needle he planted in the frame of the picture covering the panel where you kept the ruby.”
• Hopalong Cassidy [25:17]: “The ruby was a fake… the voodoo stuff, it weren't real at all.”

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This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Bayou Drums Mean Death, highlighting the key plot developments, character dynamics, and thematic elements that make this Hopalong Cassidy episode a memorable adventure.

Transcript

[Unknown Speaker]

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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 date is October 27, 1951 and the title is Bayou Drums May Mean Death. Let's get into it and thanks for listening.

[Unknown Speaker]

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[William Boyd]

With action and suspense, out of the Old west comes the most famous hero of them all. Hopalong Cassidy. Starring William Boyd. The ring of the silver spurs heralds the most amazing man ever to ride the prairies of the early West. Hopalong Cassidy. The same Hoppy you cheer in motion pictures and the same California you've laughed at a million times. Raw courage and quick shooting have built a legend around this famous hero. Hopalong is a name to be feared, respected and admired, for this great cowboy rides the trails of adventure and excitement. William Boyd as Hopalong Cassidy and Andy Clyde as California. Well, Hoppy, what about our story?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's one that took place down in Louisiana bayou country. California and I had brought a shipment of saddle and thoroughbred horses to a breeder named B. Levasseur. As the last stage of our journey was by Mississippi riverboat, he was to meet us at the landing in New Orleans.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Excuse me, would you be Mr. Cassidy and Mr. Carlson?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yes, I'm Hopalong Cassidy, ma' am. This is California Carlson. You're from B. Levasseur?

[Blanche Levasseur]

I am b. Levasseur. The Bs for Blanche, which you may call me. I detest the formality of these Southern aristocrats, don't you?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, yeah. Yes. Well, we brought the horses.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, I see them. Very nice, too. My men will take them onto the plantation. You and I can go to the bank and complete the arrangements. You wish Cash?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

A draft would be fine. I figured on sending it Back to the bar. 20 by mail. California and I are going to stay in New Orleans for A few days and see the sights.

[Blanche Levasseur]

You're going to stay? Well, that's wonderful. You'll be guests of the Lavasseur plantation while you're in Louisiana.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

But we kind of planned on staying at the St. Charles.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Nonsense. I won't hear of it. You'll be much more comfortable at our plantation.

[California Carlson]

That's mighty thoughtful of you, ma' am.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, you cowboys. Let's drop the ma' am. The name is Blanche, remember?

[California Carlson]

Yes, ma' am. Blanche.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Not handsome. Lots of character in your face. You a bachelor? California.

[California Carlson]

Well, sure.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Don't hate women, do you?

[California Carlson]

Well, no, I don't. Well.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well, good. You two can ride out with me in the carriage. We. We can get better acquainted on the way.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We have our own horses, ma' am. Blanche.

[Blanche Levasseur]

They'll be well taken care of. Hop along. My, don't men out west have given.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Names when we're born? We do, but somehow we usually get a new handle by voting age. Most people call me Hoppy.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Hoppy? Okay, Hoppy. Hoppy it shall be. Well, now, shall we go? My cousin will be waiting for me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Your cousin?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, Philippe. The Marquis de la Vasseur. It was his plantation before I took it over. The war ruined him, you see.

[California Carlson]

Then you ain't a native here? Top Yankee lingo.

[Blanche Levasseur]

No, I was raised in Philadelphia. Philippe was educated in England, but he's lived most of his life in Louisiana. We're French only in name and our emotional capacity.

[California Carlson]

Seen a doctor about?

[Blanche Levasseur]

No, I've seen you.

[California Carlson]

Me? Sharks. I ain't good for nothing but tening horses and cows.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, I can train you. It's going to be good to have you around. The plantation has such a frightening atmosphere lately.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Frightening? In what way?

[Blanche Levasseur]

I. I'm not sure, Hoppy. Just a feeling of foreboding. And the unrest among the field hands, of course.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

But they're causing you trouble?

[Blanche Levasseur]

No, no. It's all very vague. I know, but they're restless. They're nervous. The activity of Haggar's responsible for it. I know. She's been conducting secret ceremonies and rituals down in the bayous.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Just a minute. Who's Haggar?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Haggar? Haggar is a witch.

[California Carlson]

A witch? Aw, that's silly.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Is it? I wish I were sure. You see, Haggar's known to be a priestess of the oldest of black arts.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Voodoo.

[William Boyd]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and the thrilling story, Bayou Drums mean Death. Poppy and California have been invited to be the guests of Levasseur Plantation. Up river. Things are not easy at the plantation. The activities of a strange old woman known as Haggar, priestess of voodoo, are causing trouble. Now the carriage is drawing up at the big plantation house.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Josh, put the carriage away. Gentlemen, here is Levasseur House at your command and service.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's magnificent, ma' am.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Blanche. Yes, I find it so. I spent a great deal of money putting it back into good shape.

[California Carlson]

How come it's sitting up in stone piles like this?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well, the danger of floods always present in this country, California 2 being raised helps keep snakes from entering the house. Snakes?

[California Carlson]

You got rattlers here?

[Blanche Levasseur]

No, no. Rattlesnakes, California. Plenty of cottonmouth water moccasins. They're just as poisonous.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Worse, they don't warn before they strike.

[Blanche Levasseur]

That's true. Well, let's go into the library. Oh, here's my cousin Philippe. We have guests.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Oh, hello, Blanche. I was worried about you. Greetings, gentlemen. Welcome to Levasseur.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Hopalong Cassidy, California Carlson, My cousin Philippe, Marquis de Levasseur.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Happy to know you, sir.

[California Carlson]

That goes for me, too.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Thank you. I hope you are planning an extended visit.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Ah, Blanche was very kind to invite us here, but I'm afraid we can't stay very long.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

I keep forgetting that Blanche is owner now of Levasseur Plantation. It is hard, you understand.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Philip, please don't talk like that. Perhaps our guest would like a glass of sherry before dinner.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Nothing for me, Blanche. I would like to get cleaned up a bit, though.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, certainly. I'll have you shown to your rooms. Hurry back down, won't you? I want to show you the treasure of Levasseur House after dinner.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Now, Blanche, they're not interested in that.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Not interested in a priceless gem with a bloody history. Nonsense, Philippe. Of course they are.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

As you wish, my dear.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's a gem, you say?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

It's a gem, all right. A Ruby Haggar named it.

[California Carlson]

Right.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

It's the death rub.

[California Carlson]

Poppy, for goodness sake. Are you gonna take all evening washes?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Nope. It's all yours. California, where'd you toss our war bags? I need a clean shirt and so do you.

[California Carlson]

But I just put this one on day four yesterday. It's practically clean.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, yeah. All right, Hoppy. The war bags are over behind the bed.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Uh huh. Thanks.

[California Carlson]

Darn nonsense. Wish I was back herding cattle. They don't care if you wear a clean shirt. Don't care if you even wear a shirt. In fact, don't care at all. Cattle are sure nice.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, come here quick.

[California Carlson]

What is it? Well, I'll be a three horn maverick. Dolls ain't they cute?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hardly cute, California. They're voodoo dolls.

[California Carlson]

Voodoo dolls? What's them pins sticking in them?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

A sign of death.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. When do we leave?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Not for a while. And keep quiet about these dolls. I want to find out why we're being warned.

[California Carlson]

Blanche, that was a meal like none I've ever eaten. Sure wish the grub was like that back at the Bar 20s.

[Blanche Levasseur]

I'm so glad you liked it, California.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Would you gentlemen care for your demitasse in the library?

[California Carlson]

Well, that's kind of silly, ain't it?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Of course not. We'll go in there to have our demitasse.

[California Carlson]

You ain't get yours here with you?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

To state the obvious, no.

[California Carlson]

Well, I'll be darned.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, a demitasse is a small cup of coffee.

[California Carlson]

Yeah? Well, why in heck didn't he say so? Sure, sure, I'll go along with that. Bring on the demitasse, mister.

[Blanche Levasseur]

You take my arm, California.

[California Carlson]

What for? You tired?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Take it.

[California Carlson]

Yes.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, you're very strong, California.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, I am.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, yeah. Well, here we are. Have seats, everyone. I'll bring the exhibit fleet. Would you take down the picture?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Well, as you wish.

[Blanche Levasseur]

This isn't really a safe, but it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Serves a hidden panel under a picture.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, isn't it melodramatic? See, I pushed the panel aside. Here it is. The death ruby itself. Take a look.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Wow.

[California Carlson]

It's as big as a ripe buttered egg.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

What a gruesome simile.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's a beautiful stone. So red, almost like blood.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Pigeon's blood is the term used to describe this type of ruby. It is very beautiful. Well, we may as well enjoy it now. I intend selling it soon, Blanche.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

What are you saying?

[Blanche Levasseur]

He took it excited. I can use the money. And it is mine, remember?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Yes, yes, I know. But it is a Levasseur heirloom. It has remained in our family for three generations.

[Blanche Levasseur]

I said I'm selling it, Philippe. That settles the matter. With enough mystery and curses around this place without keeping, this jinx brought violent death to four men before our family bought it. And already two Levasseurs have paid the penalty of possessing it. I don't intend to be the first.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You mean you actually believe a curse follows the owner of this ruby?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well, I didn't until lately. But now I have the feeling that I'm in terrible danger.

[California Carlson]

Well, nothing's gonna hurt you while Hoppy and me's around.

[Blanche Levasseur]

I know you will be my protector, California. But I feel sure if I sell this ruby, that danger will leave a man's coming out to buy it in A few days.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

This idea of your being in danger is silly. Your nerves are upset. The drums.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Drums? What drums are those, Philippe?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Voodoo drums. Often the bayous. Haggar's doings. She's been encouraging a return to voodooism. Has all the field hands aroused? Some swear they've seen zombies and the like.

[Haggar]

They have been seen, Master Haggar.

[California Carlson]

Harpy. Wished we'd heard gun drawn.

[Haggar]

Guns would be useless, men of cattle. Bullets cannot harm me.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Hagar, what are you doing in my house? I've told you to stay away from here.

[Haggar]

I have come to warning, madam. Warning? That death is to strike your house tonight.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Death?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Voodoo death.

[Haggar]

And tonight Hagar knows. Hagar has spoken.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy, we gotta get out of here. This place is too spooky for me and that witch Haggar. I didn't like the way she kept staring at us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, there's no such thing as spooks. Besides, what could she have against us? Here's our room.

[California Carlson]

Well, Haggie ain't quite all hoppy. Ms. Blanche, she's got some funny notions. Keeps waiting on me, taking care of me like I was plumb helpless. Come on. Hurry up and light that candle. This dark ain't cheerful.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I can't find it. It was over here on the table. But, California, listen.

[California Carlson]

What? What was that?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Something's in this room with us.

[California Carlson]

Easy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I got the candle.

[California Carlson]

Here. There.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, in front of you. Don't move. It's a snake.

[California Carlson]

Who's moving? Careful.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

He's ready to strike. I can just get him with this heavy pitcher. Like this. Oh, brother.

[California Carlson]

You got him, Happy? You got him. He's killed. Where's my gun? I ain't going around naked no more. No, sir. That.45 is gonna sleep with me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That may not be a bad idea, but our worst danger is not a snake.

[California Carlson]

Well, it'll do for me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No. That Cottonmouth had helped getting into our room. And I know that candle was moved. If we'd kept blundered around, never mind.

[California Carlson]

Guess what would have happened? We'd have both been bit. Hoppy, let's get back to where snakes rattle.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Why, California, you sound scared.

[California Carlson]

I am. And only snakes and voodoo. That Blanche, she's getting some mighty strange ideas.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, maybe we'll move into New Orleans tomorrow. At least we blocked Haggart's prophecy about death coming to this house tonight.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, that death is something I just love to block. Especially mine.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It'll ruin her stalk when it gets around that she failed.

[California Carlson]

Hubby, that came from downstairs.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come on. That was someone d Foreign.

[William Boyd]

Now back to Hop Along Cassidy and our story. Bayou drums mean death. Poppy and California's arrival at Lebassur Plantation in the Louisiana bayous has set off a series of strange events. First, they find voodoo dolls mocking them for death. Then, after Haggar, the voodoo priestess, appears and warns of death, Hoppy and California narrowly avoid a poisonous snake in their room. A few seconds later, a scream rings out from downstairs in the library.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

This way, California. Blanche. Philippe. Who's that on the floor?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, Hoppy, it's Josh. He's dead.

[California Carlson]

The man who drove us out from New Orleans. Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. What killed him?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

There's no mark on him. I'm afraid it is.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, it is, Philippe. You know it is.

[California Carlson]

What's she saying? What is it?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

It's voodoo.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Agawand as we should have known it would come.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

But why Josh?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Who'd want to kill Josh?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Now, Blanche, try and control yourself.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, help Blanche to her room. Blanche, do you have any sedatives?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes. Yes, I do. At my room.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Take one and try to rest.

[California Carlson]

Come on, Blanche, Take my arm.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Thank you, Kelpour.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

I'm afraid my cousin is becoming quite attached to your man. Happy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

He's not my man. He's my partner. Philippe.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Oh, I'm sorry. I guess we better take Josh's body away. What are you looking at?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, nothing. Where shall we take him?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

I guess the attack room will do. He has no kin. We can bury him tomorrow.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Tomorrow? Aren't you gonna get the sheriff to.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Investigate a voodoo death?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

In this country, when a man dies without a mark after a voodoo warning, we bury him deep and forget him. That way we stay alive ourselves.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Philippe, stopped that pacing after last night. I'm nervous enough.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Very well, my dear.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, California, I'm so glad you're here. My nerves are just shattered. I'm frightened.

[California Carlson]

Now, Blanche. Oh, Blanche, stop it.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Our constant babbling of fears makes us look ridiculous. Remember, the blood of the Bonapartes flows in your veins. Shut up.

[California Carlson]

What do you mean?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Very well. But, my dear cousin, try and have some family pride. Must you spill over like a leaky dam in front of your guests?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Philippe, that's enough. Now get out.

[California Carlson]

I'm going.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Remember, we have a burial to attend as soon as the men finish digging Josh's grave.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What effect is the death of Josh going to have on the unrest among your field hands, Blanche?

[Blanche Levasseur]

I don't know, Hoppy. But it won't be good. His dying in our house. We'll be blamed.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Blanche, I think you should call this burial off today. It's a matter that needs an official investigation.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Investigation?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I didn't want to tell you before, but I think Josh was murdered. And not by voodoo.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Are you sure? How do you know?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm not sure. Come with me. I want to see his body. There's something peculiar about one of his fingers.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Blanche.

[California Carlson]

Blanche, he's gone. Who's gone?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Josh. His body has disappeared.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, that ends the problem of burial.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

I guess I may as well dismiss the hands. They came in for the funeral.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, you better go with him. It may stir him up if they take Josh's disappearance wrong.

[California Carlson]

Sure, Hoppy. And I'm wearing my gun.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I see that.

[California Carlson]

You don't use it on a Hoppy Earth. Yeah, yeah. All right. Hoppy. Justin. Snakes.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Be careful, California.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Blanche, do you have any heavy gloves?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Gloves? Yes, I have some I use for gardening.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And maybe a pair of pliers.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, I'll get them. What are you going to do?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I have a hunch about how Josh was killed. I'll need a few minutes in your library where he died alone.

[California Carlson]

Blanche, where's Hobby?

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well, he'll be back in just a moment. How did the hands take the news of Josh's body vanishing?

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Badly. Very badly. They turned so ugly. I was afraid California would have to use his gun after all.

[California Carlson]

Not me. I sure wasn't gonna find all them people. You sure hire a mesh of them. Must have been hundreds.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Hundreds, Philippe. Then they.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Yes, Blanche. It was a gathering of all the workers families in this section of the bayous. But it probably doesn't mean much. You know how they love to have an excuse to get together.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Not this time. This time it's not good. Philippe, do you realize what will happen if Hagar actually stirs them into violence? They revolt. Every plantation owner in the bayous will be massacred.

[California Carlson]

Oh, it ain't that bad. Bland.

[Blanche Levasseur]

California, you don't know. They're simple people, but very superstitious. Under the stimulus of voodoo practices and Haggars ranting, her revolt could be ghastly.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

They outnumber us 50 to 1, California. And that's the danger. But Blanche is letting her imagination run away with her.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Blanche, I have bad news for you.

[Blanche Levasseur]

What now?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Your ruby, it's gone.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Hoppy, do you have to go tonight? It's nearly dark.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

The sheriff has to be notified. Blanche, you can't ignore robbery and murder.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Will pan. California, stay with me.

[California Carlson]

Oh, no, no, no. I got to go. I don't know, Hoppy. I got to go.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I. Yeah, you better go with me. We'll be back as soon as we can, Blanche. So long.

[California Carlson]

Awful dark, Hoppy. You think we'll hit the main road soon?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Not long. Not wait. Pull up.

[California Carlson]

Hey. Hey, what's that light?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Torch light across the bayou. Come on and be quiet.

[California Carlson]

Drum. Poppy M's voodoo drums.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's some kind of ceremony. I can see Haggar.

[California Carlson]

That ain't all. Look at all them man.

[Philippe de Levasseur]

Shh.

[Haggar]

Listen, my people. Listen to me. It is time. Haggar, your priestess of voodoo, commands you arise.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Revolt.

[Haggar]

My people. Here are the guns. Arm yourselves. This Geneva plantation to kill. Kill.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Kill.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Rates of guns. California, you'll have to get back and warn the liver sores. I'll try to break through for help.

[California Carlson]

Papa, you can't. The virus between here and New Orleans are full of Haggars. Ma' am, I've got to try.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Haggar isn't stop. This night I'll be a bloody massacre. Go on, run for it.

[California Carlson]

All right, Hoppy. But what do we do if you don't get help?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What can you do? Make a fight of it. So long, partner.

[California Carlson]

Blanche, open up. It's me.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, California, come in.

[California Carlson]

The hands are revolting. Haggar gave them guns. Hoppy went to get help. If he can break through. Only he can't. We'll have to fight if you don't. You got any guns? Where's fl.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Phillipe is gone. When he heard the drums, he rode off after you.

[California Carlson]

Must have missed him while I was in that bayou. Oh, that dang Digit. He'll get killed for sure.

[Blanche Levasseur]

You saw Haggar giving men guns, Blanche.

[California Carlson]

Hopping me was sitting right in the middle of a hull parcel of.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, that was a very dangerous thing to do. You're so brave.

[California Carlson]

Oh, it weren't nothing special.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, it was too.

[California Carlson]

Look, you got any guns? You and me'll have to fight in a minute.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, I'll never fight with you.

[California Carlson]

Darn it, Blanche, you ain't paying no attention.

[Blanche Levasseur]

I.

[California Carlson]

Show me them spare guns, if there is any.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Anything you say California covers me.

[California Carlson]

I wish that moon had come up.

[Blanche Levasseur]

You do?

[California Carlson]

Sure. We could see to shoot a lot better.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, I was hoping you were getting romantic.

[California Carlson]

Romantic? With Hoppy may be dead and must about to fight a thousand men led by a crazy woman.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, I guess you're right. Here's the gun cabinet.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, we're sure gonna need them, I'm afraid.

[Blanche Levasseur]

There.

[California Carlson]

You grab all the shells you can carry and bring them over to the window in front.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, California.

[California Carlson]

Holy cow. They're nearly on us. And no help around. Hoppy must have been caught.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Then we're. Oh, California, we can't stand them off by ourselves.

[California Carlson]

Sure, I know that, but don't harp on it.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Oh, I only wish there was more time.

[California Carlson]

Oh, here they come. There must be a million of them. We ain't got a prayer.

[Blanche Levasseur]

California. I'll try to be of help.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, no, you will. Blanche. Better get yourself another winder.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes. California, look. They put out their torches.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. Get ready. They're going to attack. Try to pick off that witch hagger. California, look, I am, but I don't believe it. Must be the voodoo leader.

[Blanche Levasseur]

A black rider with a head of flame.

[William Boyd]

Now, back to Hopalong Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

Well, did you see that? That flaming headed spoke talked him into going home. And. And look. That spook riders are coming. Why, he's taking off his head.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It.

[Blanche Levasseur]

It's Hoppy. Oh, let's go meet him.

[California Carlson]

Dog gone. I should have known.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California. Blanche, it's me, Hoppy. Hoppy?

[California Carlson]

Oh, is that really you?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Just call me Ra, the fire God.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Well, with that coat over your head and that torch stuck up through the neck, you looked it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, it worked anyhow. I told him voodoo was bad medicine, that Haggar was an evil witch. But the sheriff will want her now, I imagine.

[California Carlson]

The sheriff? Was he wonderful for murder.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

She had a fight with a man who started this whole business and stabbed him to death. I couldn't break through to New Orleans, so I kept tabs on Haggar. I saw her meet him. I'm sorry, Blanche. It was Philippe.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Philippe? Oh, no.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't believe it, but it's true. I found a poison needle he planted in the frame of the picture covering the panel where you kept the ruby. Josh was trying to steal the ruby. His murder was planned to be yours.

[Blanche Levasseur]

But why, Hoppy? Why?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

The ruby was a fake Fleet stolen there original to buy those guns for Hagga. When you planned to sell it, he was forced to try and get rid of you. First by murder, then by starting the revolt prematurely. He had a bad kink in his brain. Blanche wanted to play Napoleon and lead an army of rebellion. Haggar was only a blind.

[California Carlson]

Then all that voodoo stuff, it weren't real at all.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All a fake, California.

[Blanche Levasseur]

Yes, I see. But Haggar was still right. It was a death ruby after all. Would you excuse me?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Surely.

[California Carlson]

Hey, where's she going?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let her alone, California. Been a shock to her.

[California Carlson]

Shock. That reminds me. I better get my horse and ramble while I can.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What the. Danger's all over you can stay now.

[California Carlson]

The heck I can. I'm in worse danger than ever.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Worse danger than being murdered?

[California Carlson]

You're dang tootin. It's called matrimony.

[William Boyd]

Well, California seems to be fearful of nothing but matrimony at this point, even though he and Hoppy have just tangled with voodoo and found that bayou drums mean Death. In their next thrilling adventure, Hoppy and California are mistaken for members of a bandit gang, and the mistake almost becomes a necktie party for them when Hoppy gets involved in the cleanup of Caribou Mesa. Hop Along Cassidy, starring William Boyd, is transcribed and produced in the west by Walter White, Jr. Bayou drums mean Death was written by Herb Purdom with original music under the personal direction of Albert Glasser. All stories are based upon the characters created by Clarence E. Mulford. This is a Commodore production.

[California Carlson]

Sam.

[Unknown Speaker]

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[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 subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 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 thanks for listening.

[California Carlson]

Ra.