Clean-Up of Caribou Mesa – Hopalong Cassidy (11-03-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: "Cleanup of Caribou Mesa – Hopalong Cassidy" Summary

Host: Andrew Hines
Original Air Date: November 3, 1951
Release Date: May 22, 2025

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Hines presents "Cleanup of Caribou Mesa," a classic Hopalong Cassidy adventure originally aired on November 3, 1951. This digitally restored episode brings to life the legendary cowboy hero, Hopalong Cassidy, as he navigates perilous challenges in the untamed frontier.

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Setting the Stage

Hopalong Cassidy (voiced by William Boyd) and his trusty sidekick, California Carlson (Andy Clyde), are journeying towards the frontier settlement of Joshua Flat in the high-range country. Their serene ride is abruptly interrupted when they notice a posse of men chasing a group of gang members at a frantic pace.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "With action and suspense, out of the Old west comes the most famous hero of them all, Hopalong Cassidy." [02:30]

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Conflict Encounter

As Hopalong and California observe the posse's aggressive pursuit, they decide to remain hidden behind boulders to avoid interference. However, their cautious approach is soon disrupted when another group confronts them, mistakenly identifying them as members of the gang they were chasing.

Notable Quote:
Trigger Tompkins: "Save your breath, you shiverless polecats. You'll need it. And get your hands up, both of you." [03:59]

The confrontation escalates quickly, leading to Hopalong and California being captured and faced with the imminent threat of being hanged by the posse. The tension peaks as Hopalong attempts to reason with the posse leader, revealing their true identities.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "Ambush you? It's plain you don't know who we are." [04:21]

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Unraveling the Mystery

The posse leader, Deputy Sheriff Glenn Gough, clarifies the confusion, explaining that they were pursuing Trigger Tompkins and his gang responsible for a series of crimes, including the recent kidnapping of Annie Culver, the daughter of Bill Culver. The tension shifts as Hopalong and California realize the gravity of the situation and the threat posed by Tompkins' gang.

Notable Quote:
Trigger Tompkins: "Annie Culver? What is all this?" [07:41]

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Strategizing the Rescue

Determined to save Annie and dismantle Tompkins' gang, Hopalong devises a bold plan. He suggests that he and California create a stampede to distract the gang, allowing them to infiltrate the cabin where Annie is held captive.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "Tonight, California and I go up to Caribou Mesa alone." [10:16]
California Carlson: "I only hope he don't start any fast shooting before we flush him out." [11:14]

Despite initial skepticism from Deputy Gough, the plan is tentatively accepted as Hopalong outlines the potential benefits of their approach.

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The Rescue Attempt

Under the cover of darkness, Hopalong and California execute their plan by stirring up the herd, causing chaos among Tompkins' men. They navigate through strategic maneuvers, avoiding detection by a vigilant guard dog. Their ingenuity shines as they manage to disable the guard and gain access to the cabin.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "Once we get back with her, your men can take over Caribou." [10:36]

However, their efforts are met with a cunning trap set by Trigger Tompkins, who reveals himself as a mole within the posse, having anticipated their move.

Notable Quote:
Trigger Tompkins: "We've been expecting you. We knew all about that stampeding trick of yours." [14:35]

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Climax and Resolution

Undeterred by the betrayal, Hopalong remains resolute. Utilizing his quick reflexes and strategic mind, he overcomes the initial setback by subduing Tompkins and his men. With California's assistance, they manage to tie up the antagonists and secure Annie Culver's safety.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "I got you covered with two revolvers now. That's right. Now I got 12 shots instead of two." [24:41]

As the posse arrives to apprehend the remaining gang members, Hopalong ensures that justice is served, ending the threat posed by Tompkins' gang once and for all.

Notable Quote:
Hopalong Cassidy: "Let's go. We got one." [19:20]

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Character Insights

• Hopalong Cassidy (William Boyd): The embodiment of courage and quick thinking, Hopalong demonstrates leadership and resourcefulness in high-stakes situations. His unwavering commitment to justice and protection of the innocent makes him a revered hero in the Old West.

• California Carlson (Andy Clyde): Hopalong's loyal and slightly comedic sidekick, California provides essential support and moments of levity. His bravery complements Hopalong's strategic mind, proving invaluable during the rescue mission.

• Trigger Tompkins: The primary antagonist, Tompkins is portrayed as a ruthless and cunning leader who poses a significant threat to the peace of Joshua Flat. His betrayal within the posse adds a layer of complexity to the narrative.

• Deputy Sheriff Glenn Gough: Serving as both an ally and a conflicted character, Gough's interactions highlight the challenges of maintaining law and order in a lawless frontier.

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Conclusion

"Cleanup of Caribou Mesa" is a riveting episode that showcases Hopalong Cassidy's heroism and tactical prowess. Through suspenseful encounters, clever planning, and brave actions, Hopalong and California triumph over adversity, ensuring the safety of Annie Culver and the restoration of peace in Joshua Flat. This episode not only entertains but also reinforces the timeless values of bravery, loyalty, and justice that define Hopalong Cassidy's enduring legacy.

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Production Credits:
Cleanup of Caribou Mesa was written by Paul Adams with original music under the personal direction of Albert Glasser. All stories are based on the characters created by Clarence E. Mulford. This is a Commodore production.

Transcript

[Unknown Speaker]

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[Andrew Hines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Hines, and let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be Hop Along Cassidy Original air date is November 3, 1951 and the title is Cleanup of Caribou Mesa. Let's get into it and I hope you enjoy.

[Unknown Speaker]

You can make a difference in someone's life, including your own, with a job in home care. These jobs offer flexible schedules, health care, retirement options, and free training. They also provide paid time off and opportunities for overtime. Visit oregonhomecarejobs.com to learn more and apply. That's oregonhomecarejobs.com.

[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. What's our story this time? Hobby?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, this is a story that goes to show you never can tell when a trick or two you've learned may come in handy and even save a few lives, including your own. Well, anyway, we call this Cleanup of Caribou Mesa. California and I are riding toward the frontier settlement of Joshua Flat up in the high range country when I noticed something up the trail away. Hey California, look there up they crest the ridge.

[California Carlson]

Ah, be darned, must be a dozen of them. They're riding this way as if the Old Nick himself was a chasin.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let's pull off the trail and get out of sight behind those boulders. The way they're pounding that bunch of cayuses down the trail, they're certainly not gonna stop and pass the time of day.

[California Carlson]

Well, they won't be able to see us here. Say, that sure was a fast riding bunch of hombres.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah.

[California Carlson]

Now where do you suppose they was goin in such a rush offy I.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Don'T know California, and it's no worry of ours. So let's be on our way. We're only about a mile from Joshua Flat.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, well, I'll be diggity diggity turned. Look ahead, Harvey. Here comes another bunch of them.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, now, this is getting interesting. We'll have to see what it's all about.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. You want to pull behind them rocks again?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, we'll stay right here on the trail and find out what's going on.

[California Carlson]

Hey, let's go.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What are you men up to?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Save your breath, you shiverless polecats. You'll need it. And get your hands up, both of you.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Look, stranger. Why, you're making a mistake.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Oh, we're making a mistake, are we? Well, let me tell you two sidewinders something. It's you who made the mistake. Jumping out of that bunch of thieving bandits and trying to backtrack and maybe ambush us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Ambush you? It's plain you don't know who we are.

[Trigger Tompkins]

We know who you are to a Trigger Tompkins, Stephen Rustler. Yeah, and that's all this here bossy needs to know to string up the both of you. All right, men, get the ropes round there. Nick.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. Come on now. Let us.

[California Carlson]

You've got a fight on your hands. You can't do this to me. And hop along, Cassidy.

[William Boyd]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story. Cleanup of Caribou Mesa. Hoppy and California have run into a posse which has mistaken them for members of a gang the posse was pursuing. Hoppy and California have been seized and the posse is ready to hang them.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Hold it. Hold it, man. Just a second. Yeah, just a second, Stranger. I heard you call out a name there. Did you say Hopalong Cassidy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's my name. This is my partner, California Carlson.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, knock me down. We sure was making a mistake.

[California Carlson]

Well, we accept your apology. Now, you better get these men of yours to stand back. Cause I ain't entirely cooled off yet.

[Trigger Tompkins]

All right, man.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Quiet. Quiet. Well, I hope there's no hard feelings, Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, not at all. But I'm interested in knowing what's going on. Suppose you do some explaining.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Sure, Cassidy, sure. What's he. We all get down and have a POW wow here.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. Yeah. I'm interested myself in hearing how come I nearly got my neck stretched.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, Cassidy, first of all, I'm Glenn Gough. I'm the deputy sheriff over the Joshua Flat. These young men are all settlers hereabouts.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And you were riding as a posse, chasing that bunch who passed us A while back.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Yeah, that was some of Trigger Tompkins gang.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Who is this Trigger Tompkins?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Oh, just a bad hombre. Moved up here with his gang about a month ago. Come from somewhere south of here, we figure.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Just what have they been up to, Goff?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Shooting up the town, robbing anything that ain't guarded, rustling horses and cattle all over the range. And that ain't all.

[California Carlson]

Now, what kind of peace officers you got around here that lets such things go on?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, see, I'm the only deputy and we're. We're all peaceable folk hereabouts. Besides, Tompkins gang is a shifty lot of varmint.

[California Carlson]

All varmints I ever heard of is shifty. That ain't no reason not to stomp em out.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And how about that Goff? What's been done about this?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, here's how it is. You see, there's been no way of knowing just where and when Tompkins gang ever was going to strike.

[G]

That's so, Cassidy. They come storming down off the mesa like a bunch of Comanches, just when we least figure on it.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Sure, if we guard the town, then they hit the range herds. And if we watch the range, they raid the town.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What about this posse here? You must have been expecting them today.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, I was coming to that, Cassidy. It warn't that we was here expecting a raid.

[California Carlson]

We.

[Trigger Tompkins]

We got this bunch together on the counter on account of what happened to any. Culver.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Annie Culver? What is all this?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Oh, Bill Culver's daughter. The gang come on Annie riding alone to the day. And they took her off to the place they got up on Caribou Mesa.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Kidnapping a. That's mighty serious. Are they demanding a ransom?

[Trigger Tompkins]

No, they ain't. And this shows you just how sharp that Trigger Tompkins is. He figures as long as he's got the gal up there, we don't dare make a move to get him.

[G]

If we let him get away with this, it's like giving him the settlement and everything in it.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Yeah, you see how it is, Cassidy. Tompkins not only got the gal, he's got a lot of men up there on Caribou Mesa.

[G]

Yeah, and they're a mean lot. And Trigger Tompkins himself is worse than all of them put together.

[California Carlson]

But what can we do?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, we gotta go up there and wipe out the whole lot of them.

[G]

No, not while they got Annie.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right, all right, take it easy. You men who can tell me something about this place the gang has?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, young Bob Jeffrey here can tell you. Cassidy. Go ahead, Bob. Tell him.

[G]

Well, Mr. Cassidy, it's like this. Annie Culver's my girl. And when I heard they took her off, I. Well, I went up on the mesa to scout around and see if maybe I could save Annie.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That took a lot of courage, Bob.

[G]

Shucks, Mr. Cassidy. Didn't do any good. They caught me right off. It was just by luck I managed to escape in the middle of the night and get back to town.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Did you see much of the place, Bob? What it was like?

[G]

Well, I got a good look, all right. There's a main cabin where they got Annie and a separate bunk house just in the middle of the mesa.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I see. How well protected is the place?

[G]

Well, the mesa's pretty hard to get to, and they got guards all around the rim.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They have, huh? They're not taking any chances of being surprised by anyone approaching the place.

[G]

Well, it's not only the guards. There's lots more men keeping herd on all the steers and horses they got up there.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

So it's not only a question of getting up on the mesa without being spotted, but of getting past the men watching over all the cattle. They've rustled.

[G]

That's right. I tried to slip in through a narrow pass where there's only one guard, but he caught me right off.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

But suppose you had got past him, Bob, you have made your way to the cabin where you say they're keeping Annie?

[G]

Not a chance, Mr. Cassidy. Trigger's men are thicker than thorns on a cactus bush.

[Trigger Tompkins]

You see, Cassidy, maybe the only thing to do is to collect a real big posse right up there and shoot it out.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't think so, Goff. Not as long as they got the girl. Her life would certainly be in danger. A mass attack won't work.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, maybe you got a better idea?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I think I have. Tonight, California and I go up to Caribou Mesa alone.

[Trigger Tompkins]

What do you see, Cassidy?

[California Carlson]

Why?

[Trigger Tompkins]

Oh, man, that'd be suicide.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, it won't. Now, listen, Golf. Here's what we'll do. California and I'll slip in among the herd up there and stampede them. We'll ride in among the stampeding horses and cattle.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Oh, I begin to see what you mean. Tompkins men will be plenty busy. And then you'll be able to get to the cabin where they're holding the Gullivergal.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's it. Once we get back with her, your men can take over Caribou. Mason, while the gang is still scattered, pick em off as they come back from rounding up the herd.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, it might work. Only it's gonna be mighty dangerous for you, Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

I guess you don't know Hopalong Cassidy, Mr. Adventures. He's bred excitement, she's butter. And danger. Why, to him, that's like strawberry jam. To top it off.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, there's a small pass to the mesa where Bob said there was only one guard.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. I only hope he don't start any fast shooting before we flush him out.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Once we get the cattle excited, he'll come out on the run. I'll go up the slope on foot. There's plenty of COVID for me here. You leave my horse when you go in. I'll be ready for my signal.

[California Carlson]

Count on me. When I hear the hoot owl cry you give. I'll be on my way through the pa. That's it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, I'm off.

[California Carlson]

I hope this consarned idea works.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shh.

[California Carlson]

Old still yonry cush. That's it. Hit up. I'm a rip snortin fire eating terror. And I, I, I stole me a horse that'll make all the boys jealous. Chiffon. Yippee. Just wait till I see this horse I got.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Who's that?

[California Carlson]

Who's who? Me. Come on, you speak up. I got you covered. How'd you like that? He don't recognize who I am. I'm the best little horse wrestler J. Tompkins got, that's who.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Well, you sure took a load drinking whiskey, whoever you are. Well, come on along here so I can get a good look at you.

[California Carlson]

Sure, sure. You wanted to take a look at me. Well, go on and look.

[Trigger Tompkins]

Say, I never saw you before.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Nice performance, California.

[California Carlson]

You sure slipped up behind him. Quiet, Hoppy. And the neat way you clipped him there. He'll be sleeping sound till sun up.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, let's get up on the mesa. And remember, ride with your body flattened out low on your horse's back.

[California Carlson]

I'll do it, Hoppy. But I just hope this here stampeding trick is going to work or we'll be a couple of dead hombres. Let's get them, Hoppy. Nothing will stop these critters now.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Right. Let's veer off the edge of the herd. Cabin should be over there.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy. Hoppy, there's a light. Must be the cabin. Wonder.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's it, all right. There's a corral. We can turn our horses in there with the others where they won't be noticed.

[California Carlson]

Good idea. Then we'll know just where to find them if we need them in a hurry.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, here we are. All right, turn them in.

[California Carlson]

Right. Get in there. Get in.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Now let's see how the land lies. You see anyone?

[California Carlson]

Nope. Everything looks clear between here and the cabin.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right, let's get over to that window. Keep in the shadows.

[California Carlson]

Follow right behind your hobby.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Keep down now. I'm gonna look in the window.

[California Carlson]

Here's hoping they ain't been watching us out of that window all this time.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Quiet, now. The girl's in there. As far as I can see, there's only one man guarding her.

[California Carlson]

What are we waiting for, then? Let's bust one in.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right, get your gun out. Going to try the door. Maybe it's unlocked. Ready?

[California Carlson]

I'm all set, Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Here goes.

[California Carlson]

Get your hands up, you, and drop that rifle you're holding.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Ms. Culver, are you all right? No, no, go away. It's a trap.

[California Carlson]

What? It's a. Get him up your toe.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We got you covered all around.

[H]

Drop your guns.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, it seems like we were expected.

[H]

That's right, Cassidy. We've been expecting you. We knew all about that stampeding trick of yours. As you see, it didn't work.

[California Carlson]

It sure stampeded off every critter you didn't have corral though.

[H]

Sure, that much of it worked because we didn't know just how you figured out getting past the guard. But my men will have every one of them back by sunup.

[California Carlson]

Lots of things can happen between now and sunup.

[H]

Yeah, lots of things can happen to you. I've still got five hands besides myself to handle you two.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You had things all figured out, didn't you?

[H]

That's right. And the important thing is we've still got the girl. And now we've got Hop along. Cassidy himself and his partner Tompkins has.

[California Carlson]

Spies in Joshua flat.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mr. Cassidy. He's known all along you were going.

[California Carlson]

To try to come here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

So that's it. Spy right in the posse. And this, I take it, is Trigger Tompkins.

[H]

That's right. What are you staring at so hard, Cassidy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You, Tompkins. I'm getting that face of yours clear in my mind. I like to remember the bad hombres I intend to put out of circulation, huh?

[H]

Well, Cassidy, we'll see about that. Lackey, take him out to the bunkhouse, tie him up and lock him up in the back room.

[California Carlson]

Right.

[H]

We'll see you two later and make sure you're out of circulation.

[William Boyd]

Now, back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story. Cleanup of Caribou Mesa. Oppy and California have stampeded bigger Tompkins herds on Caribou Mesa. And his gang of guards are scattered around up the animals. But in going into the cabin to rescue Annie Culver, Hoppy and California stepped into a trap. Now disarmed and tied up, they are locked in the bunk house.

[California Carlson]

I don't see how we're gonna get out of this mess. Hoppy, they get us hogtied hand and foot.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's a mess, all right. It's not over yet, California.

[California Carlson]

Not over. Tompkins and his gang already so far in bed with the law they ain't gonna worry none about a couple of more crimes like murder. Nush.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, I know. I've been thinking about how we're gonna get out of here before Tompkins has a chance to get around to us.

[California Carlson]

But we're tied up, Poppy. The room's locked, and there's that guard just outside the door. What can we do?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

If we can trick the guard to come rushing in here, we'll make him untie us.

[California Carlson]

Make him untie us? You ain't making sense, Army. Or are you?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I think I am. Listen, can you roll yourself over here to me? Come on, try it.

[California Carlson]

Sure. Sure, I'll try.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's it. Come on.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, I'm getting there.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Little more.

[California Carlson]

Here I am.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's fine. Now, listen. They took our guns, but we still have our cartridge belts.

[California Carlson]

So what good does that do?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Never mind. Some cartridges out of my belt.

[California Carlson]

How? My hands are tied.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Do it with your teeth. You got them in, haven't you?

[California Carlson]

Yeah, I got. Hobby.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Get as many as you can into your mouth now. Go ahead.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, yeah. Anything you say, Hobby.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Work fast.

[California Carlson]

One.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come on, come on.

[California Carlson]

2. 3.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

4.

[California Carlson]

5.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's enough. That's good. I roll over to that iron stove in the corner and spit those cartridges into the fire and duck when the bullets start exploding. That guard will come rushing into the room from then on. Leave it to me. Now, go on, hurry it up. That's it.

[California Carlson]

Bullets in the fire. Hobby.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Good. Steady now.

[California Carlson]

Hey, what's up? Work. Hobby.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. Sit on him. That'll keep him from reaching for that shotgun he dropped when I tripped him.

[California Carlson]

Yeah. All right, Hoppy. I'm sitting on him with my feet nice and convenient to bash his head in.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Fine. Now he's gonna untie me. Come on, you. And do it fast. Come on. That's it. There.

[California Carlson]

Good.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Here, California, I'll get you untied. All right.

[California Carlson]

There.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

One more nut. That does it.

[California Carlson]

Oh, man alive. Boy, that sure feels better. Now, what are we gonna do with this varmint here?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Tie him up and put a gag in his mouth.

[California Carlson]

Sure. I'll get him hogtied right quick. But Harvey, you figure they hear them bullets gonna over in the cabin?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, the cabin's too far away.

[California Carlson]

That's good. In that case, we won't be mixing up with Tompkins for a while.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We're gonna deal with Trigger Tompkins as soon as you get this guard tied up.

[California Carlson]

But how are we gonna handle Tompkins? He's got four men with him in that cabin and we ain't got no guns.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We got one. The guard shotgun here.

[California Carlson]

But it's only got two shots. Two shots to take care of five Humber's. With a couple of six guns apiece.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't expect to shoot this gun at all. That's going to help me to get a brace of.45s and trigger Tompkins. Let's go.

[California Carlson]

The way I tie that guard up in there, he ain't gonna move and he ain't gonna yell. That much.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

At least I'm sure of we don't have to worry about him. What we may get into with Tompkins and his men in the cabin is something else.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, and I can't say I like the idea of a. Hey, hey. Hey, wait a minute, Harvey.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What is it, California?

[California Carlson]

Well, well, here's a cook stove. And in the pan here is a nice big ready cooked beef steak.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, probably the guard cooked it for himself. Never mind it. Let's get going.

[California Carlson]

Never mind a good delicious beef steak.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

But we haven't got time. Come on.

[California Carlson]

All right, all right, Hoppy. I'll just take it along with me. Carrying a beefsteak ain't gonna slow me down much.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right, we better make a run for it. Keep close to those trees. Make for the end of the cabin there.

[California Carlson]

Let's go. I'm with you.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold it, California.

[California Carlson]

Look.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

The shadow of the cabin there. This side of the door.

[California Carlson]

Uh oh. Oh, he looks mean and big. What kind of dog is that?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's a mastiff. Let's ease toward him and see what he does. Easy now.

[California Carlson]

He's mean, all right. And if he decides to let loose and make a real noise, everybody in the cabin will know we're out. He is not salad.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You're right about it. We can't afford to tangle with Tompkins and these men out here in the open.

[California Carlson]

You think we can sneak back and get around to the cavern from the other side?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It's too late for that. Dog's just crouching there waiting for us to make any move.

[California Carlson]

Looks like he's waiting to make a meal of us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's it. A meal.

[California Carlson]

What's so exciting about there? The beefsteak.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Toss it to him. No, not all at once. A piece at a time.

[California Carlson]

Oh, no. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Well, right. Right here. Here, Here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Now, let's go in closer. Toss him some more.

[California Carlson]

Here it goes.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's working. California. I woke up and. Give him a rest. Don't act nervous.

[California Carlson]

Nervous? I ain't nervous. I just hope when he eats this chunk of steak, he won't start on me. Nice dog. Nice dog. Hey, Hobby, he's licking my hand.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Fine. Now you've made yourself a friend. Let's hope he doesn't raise a ruckus before we get to the cabin.

[California Carlson]

He's following right behind me, tame as a kitten.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We'll have to take a chance he stays that way. Come on.

[California Carlson]

Hobbyists still say five men with six shooters again, one man with a shotgun is too many. And there sure ain't no trick that'll get them all to come out like the guard did. Especially not one at a time.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't want them to come out, California. I want them all inside the cabin, all together in the room.

[California Carlson]

There's the winter, and it's lighted up so somebody's inside.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shh. All right. Let me get up to the window and look in. Get ready to run up this pot, mate.

[California Carlson]

Shh.

[William Boyd]

Shh.

[California Carlson]

Shut up, dog. Shut up. Juan and Luke Harvey.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They're all in there with the girl. All of them are in one room. Wonderful.

[California Carlson]

What's so wonderful? There's still five of them, ain't there?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Never mind that. Let's move away a little. I want to explain something to you.

[California Carlson]

Yeah? I'd sure like to know what you figure and do.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, then listen. You see the cabin roof on this end where the chimney comes up?

[California Carlson]

Yeah, sure I see it. What of it?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I want you to climb up there on the roof.

[California Carlson]

Sure. And what are you gonna be doing while I'm up there?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm going into the cabin.

[California Carlson]

No, sir, you don't leave me out of this. Where you're going, that's where I'm going too.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let me finish. I got a plan that should work if we can just time it right. Now, before I go in that door, you get up in that chimney. And once I'm inside, just give me.

[California Carlson]

Seem to me like such a good idea. Holding a girl here no longer just means more trouble than ever. We ought to get rid of her.

[H]

That's so. Or if you had the brains of a gopher, you'd know she's our best insurance against Trouble. No matter how big a posse they can round up, nobody's gonna come up here looking for a fight as long as they know we're holding Annie Culver. That's how I figured. And that's how it works.

[California Carlson]

Will that hop along Cassidy fella come up here? Sure.

[H]

Look what happened to him.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, but maybe there'll be others. There'll always be others, Trigger Tompkins.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't care what you do to.

[California Carlson]

Me because I know they'll finally get you.

[H]

Oh, sure, just let him try. That idea worries me about as much as Hopalong Cassidy does right now.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let's start worrying, Tompkins, because I got a load up buckshot aimed at your middle.

[California Carlson]

Why is Cassidy. Yeah, he's got a shotgun, too.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Don't anybody move. And get your hands up.

[H]

Look here, Cassidy, you're not scaring anybody. Not with two shots in that gun and five of us here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, it means I'll get two of you. And the posse is closing in on this place right now.

[H]

Oh, give me that. A posse is sitting in Joshua Flat waiting for you to get back there. Only you're not going to get back.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Think anything you want, Tompkins, but you'll get the first load of this buckshot, whatever else happens.

[H]

Is that so? It's different now, isn't it, Ken? Now I got the girl in front of me. Want to shoot now? All right, men, get him.

[William Boyd]

Everybody.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold it. I got you covered with two revolvers now. That's right. Now I got 12 shots instead of two. Ms. Culver, come over here away from Tompkins.

[California Carlson]

Mr. Cassidy, is the posse really here?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, sleep for yourself. I believe the posse is coming in now.

[California Carlson]

Are she the trick work, Hoppy.

[William Boyd]

Trick What?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Another shot, Tompkins. One that did work. Those shots that made you all rush to the windows were only cartridges California dropped down the chimney into your fire.

[California Carlson]

Well, Pete.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Startled you, eh, Tompkins? Left you flat footed just long enough for me to grab your gun.

[California Carlson]

Nobody can beat Hoppy to draw even when he's drawn from somebody else's holsters.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, California, suppose you demonstrate some talents of your own now to these gentlemen. Show them how nice and tight you can tie their hands behind their back.

[California Carlson]

Sure, sure thing, Happy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

After that, we'll put them on horses and ride them into Joshua Flat. The posse can round up the rest of the gang.

[California Carlson]

Well, the posse don't need to hurry them critters we stampeded muster on halfway to Mexico. Now down, boy. Down. Down. Down. Down, boy.

[William Boyd]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy.

[California Carlson]

Shea. Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah?

[California Carlson]

I just been thinking. Suppose when they tied us and locked us in that bunk house, they hadn't left our cartridge belts on us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, what about it?

[California Carlson]

Suppose there wasn't no fire going for me to drop them bullets in it. And suppose that beefsteak wasn't the cook stove so we could feed it to the dog. What could we have done to get out of that mess?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, there's an old Indian saying that covers that situation. Those Paco ito watoo nut.

[California Carlson]

Yeah? What does that mean in America?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It means don't worry about what might have happened. Be happy with what you've got, huh?

[California Carlson]

Where.

[William Boyd]

When Hoppy gets going with a few old Indian tricks, a kidnapped girl is rescued, a bandit gang is routed, and California winds up with a dog. After the Cleanup of Caribou Mesa, don't miss another thrilling experience with Hoppy in California when they meet up with six Little Men who Were Green Starring William Boyd is transcribed and produced in the west by Walter White, Jr. Cleanup of Caribou Mesa was written by Paul Adams with original music under the personal direction of Albert Glasser. All stories are based on the characters created by Clarence E. Mulford. This is a Commodore production.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Andrew Hines]

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 707-986-873. 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.