Catching A Big Fish With A Small Hook | Ranger Bill (06-06-56)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Catching a Big Fish With a Small Hook"

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Featured Program: Ranger Bill (Original Air Date: 06-06-56)
Release Date: July 25, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode presents a restored broadcast of Ranger Bill entitled "Catching a Big Fish With a Small Hook." The story revolves around Bill Jefferson and his friends as they become involved in a high-stakes search for a brilliant but missing scientist crucial to national security. The narrative blends suspense, the classic Western camaraderie, and a thoughtful lesson about patience, persuasion, and doing one's duty, even under personal duress. The story emphasizes moral choices and personal responsibility, spotlighting both thriller intrigue and Christian values.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

National Security Crisis: The Search Begins

[03:50 – 06:37]

• The episode opens in Washington, D.C., where a secret meeting takes place regarding a crisis in nuclear research after Dr. Wilton Orlando becomes terminally ill.
• Dr. Orlando reveals only one man can step in: his lost former understudy, Dr. Jonathan Black, missing for 18 months after a tragic lab accident.
• Inspector Andrew Anderson of the Secret Service is tasked to find Black.

  "The difficult we do right away and the impossible takes a little longer."
  — Inspector Andrew Anderson [06:06]

Life in the Town: Meeting Jay Wassell

[06:37 – 09:04]

• Ranger Bill and his friends (Stumpy and Gray Wolf) encounter Jay Wassell, a quiet, skilled gardener outside town who warmly greets them but keeps a low profile.
• The team admires Jay's talents with plants and his peaceful lifestyle, indirectly showcasing his intelligence and kindness while hinting at his hidden identity.

The Case for Disappearance

[10:50 – 13:41]

• Inspector Anderson enlists the rangers' help to search the area, suspecting Black may have retreated nearby for solace.
• The group splits up to question locals, with little initial success.

Unveiling Jay's True Identity

[15:01 – 19:13]

• Through investigation and deduction, Ranger Bill sketches an alternate version of Jay Wassell based on a photo of Dr. Black, unveiling the truth:

  "That's Jay, all right, or I'll eat my shirt, buttons and all."
  — Stumpy [19:04]

The First "Fishing Attempt": Confrontation

[20:22 – 23:03]

• Anderson insists on approaching Jay/Black directly, pressing his national duty and Dr. Orlando's dying wish. Black (Jay) bluntly refuses, citing exhaustion and trauma:

  "I've served my country for many years now. All I ask is peace and quiet. Is that too much to ask?"
  — Dr. Jonathan Black [22:08] "Get off my property, Inspector, before I have you arrested for invasion of privacy."
  — Dr. Jonathan Black [22:46]

Bill’s Gentle Influence: The Small Hook

[23:13 – 27:59]

• Bill espouses patience and empathy, using friendship and respect rather than demands.
• Jay helps the team diagnose a mysterious tree disease, displaying his scientific skill and community spirit.

  "God didn’t give you all his talent to hide it away. You can help save thousands of lives with your knowledge."
  — Stumpy [27:44]

• Bill gently confronts Jay about his past without pressure, stressing personal conscience and accountability.

Moral Lessons and Metaphor

[29:07 – 29:50]

• The "fishing" metaphor is revisited:

  "When you've got a whopper on a small hook, you've got to let him have line until he gets tired out. Then when he's resting, you reel in… it takes much patience to catch big ones."
  — Stumpy and Gray Wolf [29:15–29:41]

The Decision

[30:07 – 32:03]

• After learning of Dr. Orlando's death by mail, days pass in tense waiting. Bill repeatedly, quietly encourages Jay to return to service.
• At last, Jay (Dr. Black) accepts his responsibility and identity:

  "Yes, Bill. My name isn't Jay Wassell any longer. It's Dr. Jonathan Black."
  — Dr. Jonathan Black [32:03]

Final Thoughts and Thematic Wrap-up

[32:17 – end]

• Inspector Anderson reflects on Bill’s success:

  "We really learned a lesson from Bill on how to get a man to do what you want him to do and what he should do without him knowing it."
  — Inspector Andrew Anderson [32:17]

• The episode closes with a reflective, faith-based message about the portrayal of Christian values in media and the importance of presenting realistic role models.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "At this stage of the game, I haven't time for jokes. Dr. Black is the man and he's got to be found."
  — Dr. Wilton Orlando [05:18]
• "Your country's needs you more than ever now, Jay. Bill Jefferson."
  — (From Bill’s letter to Dr. Black) [30:07]
• "God doesn't hold you responsible for something you couldn't help. But he does for your neglect of your opportunities."
  — Ranger Bill Jefferson [30:44]
• "You got a lot to learn about catching big fish with a small hook, young feller."
  — Stumpy [29:15]

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Important Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment Description | |-----------|------------------------------------------------------| | 03:50 | Crisis meeting in Washington, D.C. | | 05:09 | Dr. Black mentioned as the missing scientist | | 06:37 | Introduction to Jay Wassell | | 13:41 | Search instructions and team mobilization | | 18:07 | Bill draws the portrait—the reveal | | 22:08 | Dr. Black's first refusal | | 27:44 | Stumpy’s impassioned plea | | 29:15 | The fishing metaphor explained | | 32:03 | Dr. Black/Jay Wassell accepts his calling |

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Episode Tone and Style

• Warm, empathetic, lightly humorous: Core banter among the rangers and Stumpy’s one-liners provide comic relief and warmth.
• Gentle moral encouragement: The story and resolution stress persuasion, compassion, faith, and patience over force or guilt.
• Community and duty: The Western setting reinforces themes of responsibility to the greater good.

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Summary for New Listeners

"Catching a Big Fish With a Small Hook" is both a suspenseful missing-person story and a valuable life lesson wrapped in the cozy camaraderie of Ranger Bill’s world. It demonstrates that winning over hearts—especially those burdened with guilt or grief—requires more patience and care ("a small hook") than bluster or demands. The narrative is a fine example of classic radio storytelling where faith and fortitude, not just heroics, win the day.

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Transcript

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

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[Stumpy]

Refreshers contain caffeine.

[Grainger Commercial Announcer]

This is the story of the One. As a maintenance engineer at a beverage manufacturing plant, he starts his day knowing every line is ready to run because Grainger delivers the industrial grade products he needs to keep mixers, conveyors and packaging equipment moving. With Grainger's vast selection of bearings, belts and motors, he keeps operations running smoothly so nothing grinds to a halt. Call 1-800-GRAINGER click granger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. You can find more western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Warrior of the woodland, Ranger Bill, Warrior of the woodland. Struggling against extreme odds. Traveling dangerous trails, fighting the many enemies of nature. This is the job of the guardian of the forest, Ranger Bill. Pouring rain, freezing cold, blistering heat, snow, floods, bears, rattlesnakes, mountain lions. Yes, all this in exchange for the satisfaction and pride of a job well done, Boys and girls. You know, Bill's been asked to do many strange things and help solve a lot of unusual problems. But this time, he's going to show us how to fish. Oh, not the kind of fish you're thinking of. The fish Bill's going to be asked to catch is a man. A big and important man. It's one thing to catch a fish when he's hungry and will take any kind of bait on almost any kind of hook, you know, jump right out

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

of the water after it.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

But when the fish isn't hungry or even interested, that's where the science of fishing really has to be used. The man Bill's going fishing for is vitally connected with national defense. Well, let's get into our story. Here's catching a big fish with a small hook. All new drinks are now at McDonald's with refreshers like the Strawberry Watermelon Refresher and the Mango Pineapple Refresher with popping Boba to crafted sodas like the Sprite Berry Blast with Berry flavors and cold foam. Who knew ice cold drinks could be so fire

[Stumpy]

six.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

All new drinks are here now at McDonald's.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

Refreshers contain caffeine.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

We're in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. here, the top leaders of our country plan for our welfare and safety. Right now, a very important meeting is taking place in a secret place. Suppose we quietly drop in on the meeting and listen. Remember, this is top secret.

[Gray Wolf]

Gentlemen, gentlemen, let's come to order since we're all here now. Thank you. Thank you. I am sure that you're all aware of the crisis we face in the development of our nuclear work. Because of the sudden illness of Dr. Orlando. The good doctor dragged his ailing body from bed to be with us at this meeting. We'll ask him to speak right away so he can leave and return home as quickly as possible. Dr. Orlando.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

Thank you, General. Gentlemen, my time is limited. My physician tells me my days are numbered. That's why I've asked for this meeting.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What does your physician say, Doctor?

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

Not more than three weeks, Colonel. Now, gentlemen, there's only one man who can take my place. He was my understudy at one time and since has made quite a name for himself in nuclear science.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, doctor, let's get this man here at once.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Yes, yes, by all means.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

I wish it were as simple as that. The man I'm referring to is Dr. Jonathan Black.

[Gray Wolf]

Black vanished from the face of the Earth 18 months ago, Doctor, after that accident that killed his lab assistant. Surely you can't be serious about having him replace you.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

General, at this stage of the game, I haven't time for jokes. Dr. Black is the man and he's got to be found.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

We don't even know if the man's alive.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

I'm well aware of the problem, but I suggest we call in Inspector Andrew Anderson of the Secret Service and have him locate my colleague.

[Gray Wolf]

Inspector, you have the whole story? And all the material we could get our hands on about Dr. Jonathan Black.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, thank you, General. This will be a tremendous help.

[Gray Wolf]

I think you know what this means to our national security. Inspector, you gotta find this man and find him quickly. I know I'm asking for the impossible, but it's got to be done.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, General, there's a little motto on my desk. It says, the difficult we do right away and the impossible takes a little longer. We sincerely intend that sign not to be a joke or a bribe.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, I hope not, but it sure sounds like it. Remember, keep one thing in mind, Inspector.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

And what's that, sir?

[Gray Wolf]

Dr. Orlando's got three weeks to live.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Gray Wolf, see that Angus and his boys clear out that border fire lane.

[Gray Wolf]

I do that. And that fireling grow plenty scrub in short time.

[Stumpy]

Well, it's one of those things. The little acorns keep growing into big oaks faster than we can chop them down.

[Gray Wolf]

But truth, we go by Jay Wassell's place soon now.

[Stumpy]

Hey, that's right. This trail leads right out in front of his farm or ranch or whatever you call it.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Well, whatever he calls it doesn't matter. The way he grows flowers, vegetables and stock sure makes a fellow wonder how he does it. I've never seen such beautiful plant life anywhere. Hello there, Jay.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Hello, fellas. Wait till I shut off this bug killer.

[Stumpy]

Hey, don't point that thing at me.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

It won't kill you. Unless you're a bug.

[Stumpy]

I ain't so sure about that.

[Gray Wolf]

That stuff you use is real potent.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes, it is. Does a good job of keeping pests out of the garden.

[Stumpy]

Bill, let's get out of here. He's talking about us.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

I'm glad to have you gentlemen drop it on me. Your company's always welcome. Let's go up the house and I'll put the coffee pot on the stove.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Thanks, Jay, but we ought to be moving along. We just stopped a moment to say hello. And also to refresh our horses.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Well, I'm glad you did. You're welcome to stay if you wish.

[Gray Wolf]

We got plenty of work to do yet. Lots of paperwork after many days on trail.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes. I guess you fellows don't find it hard to keep occupied.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Oh, I'll say we don't. Well, we'll have to be going. See you again, Jay.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes, come again. Make it soon. Next time we will have to have coffee. Okay.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Come on, Storm.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Come on, get him up.

[Stumpy]

Did you see the beautiful flowers that feller's got growing? Great day in the morning. I sure don't see how he does it.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

They're extraordinary, all right. That man really knows his business.

[Gray Wolf]

And he'd keep his nose out of other people's business. Nice fellow.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I'll say he is. Fine, gentlemen. Well, let's step on it and get back to town. Now that the horse is arrested.

[Stumpy]

Come on, come on, come on.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Let's go, Storm.

[Grainger Commercial Announcer]

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[Stumpy]

He's good to be back at. You know we've been out on the trails for three weeks.

[Gray Wolf]

That right? I wonder what happened in that time.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

A lot could happen, fellas. But maybe we're fortunate this time. Life kept a normal pace.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, it's about time you fellas showed up.

[Stumpy]

Hey, let's scram. It's the cops.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

No, it' Drop your gear here, fellas. Okay. Well, Andy, what brings you out to our neck of the woods?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

One of my usually difficult assignments, huh?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Well, it's good to see you again.

[Gray Wolf]

That right? And long time now since you here last.

[Stumpy]

I'll say it is. Why, you ain't been here since the pickles were just warts on the vine.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

That's right. But it's sure good to be back.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I don't suppose you can tell us what your new job is?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Yes, I can. And what's more, I think it's going to involve you fellas directly.

[Stumpy]

Oh, here goes my high blood pressure. Every time we work with you, I almost get scared out of 10 years growth. And I ain't got many 10 years left to get scared out of. Sonny.

[Gray Wolf]

Stumpy. Stumpy says more truth than fiction. What you up to this time, Andy?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, the way you fellows talk, you'd think I'm a wild man. I'm afraid I'm Going to have to disappoint you this trip.

[Stumpy]

No excitement?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

No, don't expect any. I'm looking for a man that's been missing for 18 months. He's either dead or he's gone to the moon.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Huh? What are the details, Andy?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, if you rustle up some coffee, I'll start from the beginning and tell you what I know about Dr. Jonathan Black. So now you know as much as I know about this case.

[Stumpy]

Well, you sure ain't generous with the information, young feller.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Don't say I'm not. But it's all I've got to donate to the cause.

[Gray Wolf]

This tough one. What make you think Dr. Black come out here?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, I don't know. Gray wolf? You might call it an instinct. What better place for a man to come than nurse his soul and mind, get away from whatever he's trying to escape?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Mm, you have a point there. All right.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Uh, Bill, I'd like you to do me a favor.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Yeah, sure.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Will you fellows take a close and hard look around this part of the country? I'll hop a plane and go to the coast for a few days, contact my undercover boys out there, then I'll be back. It'll save valuable time.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Okay, Andy. We'll do some serious scouting around and see what we can find.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

Mr. Sims, will you check the beakers for over sedimentation?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Right away, Dr. Orlando.

[Stumpy]

Dr. Orlando. You all right?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Yes, yes.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

It was just an accident.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

I don't think so. I'll call your physician right away.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

No, no, no, please. There isn't a thing he can do anyhow. I'll be all right in a few moments. Got to go on with my work. Time is running out for me.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

All right, sir. What you gonna do if Dr. Black can't be found?

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

I don't know. We'll have to ask God for a miracle. Jonathan has to be found. Well, bill me by. I've asked the question all day until I'm never be forgetting the name of Dr. Jonathan Black? No, sir. No more than I can forget me ache and feet.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

You've done a fine job, Pat. I sure appreciate your help.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

I think nothing of it. Patrick o' Rourke's always glad to help. I'm just sorry I couldn't get results.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

So am I, but that can't be helped. Well, let's find out how Stumpy made out. How about it, Stumpy?

[Stumpy]

How many more thousand people do I have to ask about Jonathan Black and have him say no?

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

I take it you've had negative results, eh, Stumpy?

[Stumpy]

Negative ain't the word for it. I've heard the word no so much it's beginning to drive me crazy. You want me to keep on?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

No. Head back to headquarters, Stumpy. I'll meet you there.

[Stumpy]

No. I mean yes. Hey, you see what you've done to me? Now I automatically say no to everything.

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

That old gentleman has a great sense of humor.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

He sure has. Well, I'd better try Gray Wolf on the radio. Since he hasn't shown up yet, I

[Dr. Wilton Orlando]

don't think he'll have anything better to report.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

You're probably right. Bill to car two. Bill to car two. Come in, Gray Wolf.

[Gray Wolf]

Gray Wolf to car one. Nothing good to report here. Everybody say they not hear of Dr. Jonathan Black.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Okay, Gray Wolf, that's enough. I'll meet you back at the office. Over and out.

[Gray Wolf]

But plenty good. I tired asking same question and get the same answer.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Out,

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Bill. Jonathan Black's got to be in this part of the country.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

How can you be so sure of that, Andrew?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, all of my undercover agents and their contacts never heard of the man. Now, anyone as prominent as this gentleman would have been spotted somewhere.

[Stumpy]

Now wait a minute, sonny. Tie your horse up to the hitching post and set a spell.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Go ahead, old timer. I'm listening.

[Stumpy]

You mean to tell me that a man can disappear if he wants to without being spotted? How could you tell if Black was in San Francisco or Los Angeles?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

That's a hard question to answer without giving away. But I can say this much. Every terminal point of transportation is covered. And so are hotels, motels, resorts and the like. Car polisher at a fancy resort. Could be an undercover Secret Service agent. Now, Stumpy, it's our job to know where folks are going and why and when.

[Stumpy]

In other words, everybody's business is your business and not his own.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

That's right. And this is why I say that Dr. Black's right out here somewhere.

[Gray Wolf]

Somewhere is good.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Statements and how. Andy, let's take a look at the picture you have of Dr. Black.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Sure.

[Stumpy]

That briefcase of yours is loaded. Worse than a woman's handbag.

[Gray Wolf]

It's full, all right.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Here's a picture, Bill.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Uh huh. I've got an idea. I'm not much of a freehand artist, but I'm gonna try.

[Stumpy]

Don't let Bill pull your leg, Andrew. He's pretty good with a lead pencil.

[Gray Wolf]

What you have in mind, Bill? Who are you thinking about as you draw?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I'm thinking about Jay Wassell.

[Gray Wolf]

Jay, huh?

[Stumpy]

Why, you're talking through your hat, sonny. Jay's a clean shaven man, he wouldn't look right with a mustache and goatee. Why, Jay Wassell is no more Jonathan Black than I'm the President of the United.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Well, there it is. Took three tries before I got what I wanted, but there it is.

[Stumpy]

Well, looks like I shot my mouth off too soon. That's j, all right, or I'll eat my shirt, buttons and all.

[Gray Wolf]

It's hard to believe, but it's true. You do plenty of good job with drawing picture, Bill.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I'll agree. Jay Wassell and Jonathan Black are one of the same. Where is this J. Wassell?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

He lives outside of town about four miles. In a nice little place he's got fixed up out there. You interested in taking a look at the man?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Does a duck like water? Let's go. Whoa, Storm.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

We'll leave the horses here and walk through the brush for a few yards.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

How far away will we be from black?

[Stumpy]

About 100 yards.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Able to get a good look at him with glasses.

[Gray Wolf]

That right?

[Stumpy]

Well, this should about do it.

[Gray Wolf]

There, Jay working garden now.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Hey, he's got a nice place fixed up there. It's really beautiful.

[Stumpy]

It sure is. Seems like a downright shame to disturb the man.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

This country needs him, Stumpy. He's one of the most brilliant chemists and physicists alive. Bill, let me use your glasses. I think they're more powerful than mine.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Sure, Andy. Help yourself.

[Stumpy]

Well, what do you say, young feller?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

It's the man we're after, all right. And Jay Wassell is Dr. Jonathan Black.

[Stumpy]

Well, now, you see the fish you're after. What kind of hook and bait are you gonna use to catch em?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I'm gonna use my own hook and bait.

[Stumpy]

You mean you're going right down there now and talk to em?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Certainly.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What better time than now? After all, I haven't got much time left. Dr. Orlando may be dead right now for all I know.

[Stumpy]

What you say is true in part, Sonny, but we know Jay better than you do. I think you'd better let Bill handle this.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What do you mean? I can handle any man. You trying to tell me that Bill can catch the fish better than I can?

[Stumpy]

Well, I think maybe so. You're not making the pinch Now, Sonny. Dr. Black doesn't have to leave here and work for Uncle Sam. He can tell you to get and stay gone and there's nothing you can do about it.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

We'll see about that, old timer. I'll have Jonathan Black eating out of my hand. Just you wait and see.

[Stumpy]

Yeah, we'll be waiting. I have a sneaking suspicion that you're coming back with an empty hook.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

That's the whole story, Dr. Black. We need you badly. And Dr. Orlando's dying request is for you to take his place.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Well, that's very touching, Inspector, but the answer is no.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Dr. Orlando said that you're the only man that can carry on his work. You have a genius and ability second only to he. Now he didn't make that last statement. But I am.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Inspector Anderson, I've served my country for many years now. All I ask is peace and quiet. Is that too much to ask?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

This isn't the time to be thinking of yourself. Your country needs you and demands your services.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Nobody demands a thing from me. I've given the fullest measure. For 30 years I've worked in a stinking laboratory for my country to all hours of the day and night. Yes, and at great personal risk. And even helped a good friend of mine to lose his life. Now I. I'll thank you to leave.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, I'm sorry that I'll have to tell the powers that be that you're not interested. That you're considering your selfish interest before your countries.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Get off my property, Inspector, before I have you arrested for invasion of privacy. Get off before I forget that I'm a gentle.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

How'd you make out, Andy?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Not good, Stumpy. You were right. I should have listened to you and let Bill handle Black.

[Stumpy]

No, don't despair, sonny. Bill can still handle him.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Would you, Bill?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I'll try. Perhaps I'll come back empty handed too.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I don't think you will. See what you can do.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I will. If you have the patience.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I'll have it. Take all the time you need but bring in the bacon.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Okay. Well, let's get back to town tomorrow afternoon. We'll accidentally drop in on Jay as we come down the trail.

[Stumpy]

Hey, this coffee is mighty good. It's kind of drizzling out. A little hot coffee takes the chill out of old bones. These rolls are mighty eatable too.

[Gray Wolf]

Not truth. I have more, please.

[Stumpy]

Say, Bill, what do you think about the new bark disease we ran into up on the north section?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I don't know what to think about it because I don't know what it is. I'll send the bark samples to the lab as soon as we get to town.

[Gray Wolf]

Not take much time. The way disease is spreading, we not have that much time.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

You say you don't know what this new bark disease is, Bill?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

No, Jay. And what's more, even if we did know, we'd have to find out what type of fungicide would kill it. And that's going to take more valuable time.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

May I see the bark samples?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Sure. I got them right here in my pack.

[Stumpy]

Still wanted to make sure they didn't get away.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Here they are.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Would you mind if I ran some tests on this diseased bark?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

What kind of tests?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Lab tests.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

You have a lab here, Jake?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes. Come along fellows and we'll see if we can't save some valuable time.

[Jake Stauch / Talkspace Announcer]

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[Grainger Commercial Announcer]

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[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Every style, every home.

[Stumpy]

By the smile on your face, I'd say you got the answer, Jay.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes. Plain old DDT will kill the parasite causing this disease.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Fine. We'll have the crews and planes praying first thing in the morning. I sure appreciate what you've done.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Quite all right. I'm glad I could do it.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

It's a shame you're hiding away here, Jonathan.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Then you know about me.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Yes. Inspector Anderson asked us to help find you.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Uh huh. Weren't you aware before that. That. That I wasn't an ordinary retired man?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Well, yes, but I felt that that was your business and I let it go at that.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

What are you going to do now that you know, Jay?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

This is your affair. I've learned My own business. Unless I'm asked to butt in. You will have to answer to your own conscience and to the Lord for your actions. I won't have to answer for you.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

But I killed a man.

[Gray Wolf]

That right in laboratory. And it was accident.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

It was I that caused the accident. Greybull.

[Stumpy]

Young feller, we who work with danger take that calculated risk. But God didn't give you all his talent to hide it away. You can help save thousands of lives with your knowledge. You can make life beautiful just like you make your gardens.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Fellows are right. But again I say that this is your affair. Well, we better be getting along so we can get after those trees at the crack of dawn. Thanks for your help, Jay.

[Stumpy]

Yep, you can help lots of folks like you helped us, but not from here.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Andy, this message is for you. Dr. Orlando died this morning.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

He lived three days over the three weeks the doctors gave him. Bill, when are you going to win in this battle of minds?

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Well, you've got to be patient, Andy. Dr. Black's got to make this decision of his own free will.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Yes, and in the meantime we're getting peptic ulcers.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

I know, but we've got to wait. I'm going down to the post office and drop this in so Jay will get it first thing in the morning.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What good is mailing the teletype message to Dr. Black going to do Bill's

[Stumpy]

bait in the hook with stronger bait?

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What do you mean?

[Stumpy]

Bill is using love and loyalty to bring Jonathan Black out of his shell. You got a lot to learn about catching big fish with a small hook, young feller.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I have? Well, how?

[Stumpy]

When you've got a whopper on a small hook, you've got to let him have line until he gets tired out. Then when he's resting, you reel in. Then he'll fight again and get tired again. And each time he rests, you reel in more until you got him that right.

[Gray Wolf]

If you try bringing big fish in when he full of fight, then he break hook or straighten it out and get away and take much patience to catch big ones.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

What you fellows are saying makes sense, but I hope I've got the patience to hold out.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Oh, Dr. Wilton Orlando died Tuesday, 3:23am Your country needs you more than ever now, Jay. Bill Jefferson.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Hello, Jay. Did you get my letter?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes, but. But my mind's the same.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Each day means another day that you're losing out in helping folks.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

But I can't forget that I killed a man.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

God doesn't hold you responsible for something you couldn't help. But he does. For your neglect of your opportunities.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Oh, hello, Bill.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

It's three days now, Jay, that your country has been in need of you. Jay, it's four days. Your country still needs you. You're still wanted. J.

[Stumpy]

Now, Andrew, you'd better count to a million. I can see the fire in your eyes and the smoke coming out of your ears. Cool off, sonny.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Oh, you and your philosophy. And Bill, you and your patient preaching fellas are driving me crazy with waiting. Four days have gone by. Not one word. Four whole days. Even the message of Dr. Orlando's death hasn't moved that man. I'm going out there and give him a good sized piece of my mind.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

That won't be necessary, Inspector Anderson.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

I'm sorry you heard my outburst. I lost my self control for a minute.

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Don't apologize. I. I deserved it.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Have you reached a decision, Jay?

[Dr. Jonathan Black / Jay Wassell]

Yes, Bill. My name isn't Jay Wassell any longer. It's Dr. Jonathan Black.

[Inspector Andrew Anderson]

Well, we really learned a lesson from Bill on how to get a man to do what you want him to do and what he should do without him knowing it. When you're going after big fish with a small hook, you've got to take it easy. Andy found that out. Well, we'll see you next week for more adventure with Ranger Bel.

[Ranger Bill Jefferson]

Hi again. Our program today gives me Ranger Bill just a little time to talk to you moms and dads about our adventure stories and why we're on the air. We all know that every time a boy or girl listens to one of our programs, he gets some impression of the Christian life and the character of the people involved. So we must be constantly alert to guard the image that's presented, to make it realistic and truthful. Neither setting up false ivory tower heroes for fellas and gals to aspire to or creating the impression that Christianity is an impossible goal in this day and age. We also try to present Christians as people, something which they are. The faults of a Christian don't have to be glossed over. He's human too. So we try to present to you, the listener, a story that from your point of view is a factual photograph of a way of life, namely the Christian way. And showing individuals living, seeing, understanding this way of life, or maybe missing it completely. Let's all be honest before God so that truth can survive. Our young people will turn out to be the good citizens and real Christians that we want them to be. Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Stumpy]

Sam.