Cold Blood – Tales of the Texas Rangers (02-17-52)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
• Host: Andrew Rhines
• Episode: Cold Blood – Tales of the Texas Rangers (Original Air Date: February 17, 1952; Release Date: June 11, 2025)

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Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rhines transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with a meticulously restored rendition of "Cold Blood – Tales of the Texas Rangers." This classic Western drama delves into a gripping tale of suspicion, brotherhood, and justice in the rugged landscapes of East Texas.

Episode Overview

"Cold Blood" centers around Eli Wilber, a farmhand accused of murdering his employer, Ralph Dean. With only a rattlesnake as his alibi, Eli's fate hangs in the balance as Texas Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan step in to unravel the truth. The story is a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice and the complexities of human relationships in the untamed frontier.

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Detailed Summary

Setting the Scene (00:58 - 04:53)

Andrew Rhines introduces the episode, setting the stage for a dramatic narrative. The story unfolds in Lundy, East Texas, on April 22, 1935, in a modest shack where a young widow, Nelly Johnson, cares for her baby. The peaceful night is disrupted when Eli Wilber, Nelly's brother, arrives injured and distraught.

Notable Quote:

• Andrew Rhines [00:58]: "This episode is going to be Tales of the Texas Rangers. Original air date is February 17, 1952."

The Accusation (04:53 - 12:07)

Eli confesses to Nelly that he was involved in a tragic incident where Ms. Dean was killed. He maintains his innocence, claiming he only intended to kill a rattlesnake that threatened them. Despite his pleas, suspicion falls heavily on him, especially as evidence like his coat is found at the crime scene.

Notable Quote:

• Nelly Johnson [05:34]: "Mr. Dean say I kill her."
• Eli Wilber [06:55]: "Kill Ms. G. I don't have to ask, Eli."

Rangers Arrive (12:07 - 16:13)

Texas Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan are called to investigate the murder. They interview Nelly, who vehemently defends Eli's innocence, revealing inconsistencies in the sheriff's investigation. The Rangers uncover evidence pointing both towards and away from Eli, deepening the mystery.

Notable Quote:

• Ranger Pearson [12:03]: "We're gonna catch him. He'll be punished for what he did."
• Nelly Johnson [13:23]: "Time in the shack in the spa. Place we call old Marcus and shack."

The Pursuit (16:13 - 25:16)

As the Rangers delve deeper, they face opposition from Ralph Dean, Ms. Dean's husband, who is determined to see Eli punished. An attempted lynching ensues, highlighting the tensions and prejudices within the tight-knit community. The Rangers skillfully navigate these challenges to protect Eli and seek the truth.

Notable Quote:

• Ranger Pearson [25:03]: "If you don't, you got a murder charge against you for killing your wife."
• Ranger Morgan [24:57]: "I didn't kill this."

Climax and Resolution (25:16 - 30:35)

The climax builds as evidence surfaces supporting Eli's story about the rattlesnake, exonerating him from Ms. Dean's murder. However, Ralph Dean's desperation leads to further chaos when he and his associates attempt to break Eli out of jail. The Rangers confront them in the woods, leading to Ralph's confession and eventual conviction for murder.

Notable Quote:

• Sheriff [27:28]: "You trying to railroad me. You know better, Nat."

Epilogue (30:35 - 32:34)

Andrew Rhines concludes the episode by revealing the outcome: Ralph Dean is sentenced to life imprisonment, and justice prevails with the assistance of the Texas Rangers. The episode underscores themes of truth, integrity, and the unwavering pursuit of justice.

Notable Quote:

• Andrew Rhines [30:35]: "This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed."

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Justice vs. Prejudice: The episode highlights the struggle between objective justice and community prejudice. Despite Eli's claims of innocence, societal biases almost lead to his wrongful conviction.

2. Brotherly Bonds: The relationship between Eli and Nelly showcases familial loyalty and the lengths one will go to protect a loved one.

3. Role of Law Enforcement: Rangers Pearson and Morgan embody the ideal of impartial and diligent law enforcement, committed to uncovering the truth amidst chaos.

4. The Power of Evidence: The rattlesnake incident serves as a pivotal piece of evidence, demonstrating how seemingly minor details can significantly impact the course of justice.

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Conclusion

"Cold Blood – Tales of the Texas Rangers" is a compelling episode that masterfully blends suspense, drama, and moral dilemmas. Through its authentic portrayal of Texas Rangers' investigative prowess and the human emotions entwined in criminal accusations, the episode offers listeners a vivid glimpse into the challenges of the Wild West. Andrew Rhines' expert restoration enhances the narrative's richness, making this classic tale resonate with contemporary audiences.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Andrew Rhines [00:58]: "This episode is going to be Tales of the Texas Rangers."
• Nelly Johnson [05:34]: "Mr. Dean say I kill her."
• Eli Wilber [06:55]: "Kill Ms. G. I don't have to ask, Eli."
• Ranger Pearson [12:03]: "We're gonna catch him. He'll be punished for what he did."
• Nelly Johnson [13:23]: "Time in the shack in the spa. Place we call old Marcus and shack."
• Ranger Pearson [25:03]: "If you don't, you got a murder charge against you for killing your wife."
• Ranger Morgan [24:57]: "I didn't kill this."
• Sheriff [27:28]: "You trying to railroad me. You know better, Nat."
• Andrew Rhines [30:35]: "This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed."

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Final Thoughts

For aficionados of classic Western dramas and enthusiasts of radio storytelling, this episode stands out as a quintessential example of the genre. The Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, under Andrew Rhines' stewardship, continues to preserve and elevate beloved tales from the past, ensuring their legacy endures with clarity and impact.

Transcript

[Teen Advocate]

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[Campaign Representative]

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[Expedia Advertiser]

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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 Tales of the Texas Rangers. Original air date is February 17, 1952. And on this episode, a poor field hand is accused of murder and he only has a snake for his alibi. The title of this episode is Cold Blood. Hope you enjoy. And again, thanks for listening.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they are. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@ flavorshookorgankids.org paid for by the Campaign for.

[Campaign Representative]

Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund Packages by Expedia.

[Expedia Advertiser]

You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights, hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia Made to Travel Trip planner by Expedia. You were made to have strong opinions about sand. We were made to help you and your friends find a place on the beach with a pool and a marina and a waterfall and a soaking tub. Expedia Made to travel before we bring.

[Campaign Representative]

You today's story of the Texas Rangers, let's talk a moment with Bill Harris and Alice Fay during a break in the rehearsal for today's Bill Harris Alice Fay Show. Thank you, Bill Foreman. You know, folks, I welcome this opportunity to talk with you about the great lineup of stellar entertainment in store for you this evening right here on NBC, right after Tales of the Texas Rangers. Tallulah Banker will bring you all of her darling guest stars on the big show. And I know that she has some of your favorite entertainers with her today. And I hope you'll listen to the big show. And then right after Tallulah and her guests, it's time for my show. The show. Our show. You could be right. Our show. The Phil Harris, Alice Fay show with Frankie Remley, brother William Julius Abruzio and little Alice and Phillips. And don't forget the Theater Guild on the Air. Phil. That's right. Immediately following our show, you'll hear your favorite stars of Hollywood and Broadway in great plays on Theater Guild on the air. So we hope you'll stay tuned right here to NBC. Thank you, Phil Harris and Alice Fay. And now, here's today's adventure of the Tales of the Texas Rangers. Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Name, states and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record. In just a moment, we return you to Tales of the Texas Rangers and today's thrilling episode starring Joel McCray. And now, from the files of the Texas Rangers, the case called Cold blood. It is 7:30 on the night of April 22, 1935. In a shack in a poor section of Lundy and East Texas town, a young widow feeds her baby. As the room goes dark, she gets up and crosses to an oil lamp on the table.

[Nelly Johnson]

Now you hush, honey. Don't you be crying. We'll have us a nice bright light in just a minute. There. You see, honey? I told you I'd get rid of the shadow. Who's there? It's Eli, Nellie. Open up quick. Eli, what you're doing off the farm on a weeknight?

[Campaign Representative]

Don't stand talking, Nelly.

[Nelly Johnson]

Let me in.

[Campaign Representative]

Lock it. Lock the door.

[Nelly Johnson]

Eli, you're hurt. You got yourself in trouble, ain't you?

[Campaign Representative]

Let me sit down. I got rest. Rest, Nelly. Put out the light.

[Nelly Johnson]

All right, Eli. What kind of trouble you in?

[Campaign Representative]

I run all the way from the farm.

[Nelly Johnson]

All the way? I'm your sister, Eli. I got a right to know. What kind of trouble.

[Campaign Representative]

Nelly.

[Nelly Johnson]

I'm scared, Nelly.

[Campaign Representative]

I'm scared, babe.

[Nelly Johnson]

Oh, honey. Don't you sit right there. I'm going to get some water and wash the blood off your face. It's all right. The lamb. Don't you worry. There's some light from the street. I see pretty good in the dark, anyhow. Hush, baby. I'm busy. Now, this will hurt some. Eli there.

[Campaign Representative]

He was a good sister, man. He always was a good sister still.

[Nelly Johnson]

You gonna tell me about Ms. Dean?

[Campaign Representative]

She dead.

[Nelly Johnson]

Ms. Who? Mr. Dean say I kill her.

[Campaign Representative]

He come down to my shack, say.

[Nelly Johnson]

Ms. Dean dead, and I kill her. Say my coat was in the room where she's dead. He beat me nearly.

[Campaign Representative]

No, he's all right. I tripped him. He fell on the floor and I run away.

[Nelly Johnson]

All the way from the farm.

[Campaign Representative]

I run.

[Nelly Johnson]

You ought to go to the can't. You know that?

[Campaign Representative]

I go into town.

[Nelly Johnson]

I know. Gotta hide.

[Campaign Representative]

I gotta hide fast.

[Nelly Johnson]

What good's that gonna do? They'll get you. They'll get you sure. I got to hide.

[Campaign Representative]

Few days they don't find me, maybe.

[Nelly Johnson]

I can get out of the state.

[Campaign Representative]

Then they'll never find me.

[Nelly Johnson]

Oh, they'll find you. Where you figuring on hiding?

[Campaign Representative]

You know that old shack in the swamp place we used to play when we was kids?

[Nelly Johnson]

It ain't good enough. They'll find you, sure. But you're running. You gotta hide. And you gotta have food.

[Campaign Representative]

Nelly.

[Nelly Johnson]

Uh huh.

[Campaign Representative]

There's something you ain't asked me yet. Look.

[Nelly Johnson]

Here's a loaf of bread and some smoked meat. It ain't much, but it'll keep you going.

[Campaign Representative]

Spell Nelly. You ain't ask me if I did.

[Nelly Johnson]

Kill Ms. G. I don't have to ask, Eli. You're my brother and that's all I need to know.

[Campaign Representative]

You're a good sister.

[Nelly Johnson]

If you're going to hide, you better get out of here.

[Campaign Representative]

Yeah. You're looking for more?

[Nelly Johnson]

Let them come. They ain't going to hear nothing from me. You be careful, Eli. You be awful careful.

[Campaign Representative]

I will. Maybe when I get away, I can write you, let you know where I am.

[Nelly Johnson]

You don't write me nothing, you hear? Nothing. Let me know. Scissors.

[Campaign Representative]

Sheriff was notified by Ralph Dean, a farmer, that his wife had been murdered. He hurried to the scene of the crime and then requested assistance from the Texas Rangers. Shortly past 10pm Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan arrived at the Bean farmhouse. The sheriff met them at their car. Howdy, Sheriff. Howdy, boy. Howdy. Body's in the bedroom. I left everything just like it. Was her husband still around? Yeah. He was going to take off, but I figured you'd want to talk to him. He's waiting in the front room now. Come on. Where do you want to take off for? Hey, you know how it is. Jace Dean says it was his hired hand killed his wife. He's boiling mad. He wants to start looking for the boy himself. What's the hired hand's name? Eli Wilber. Been the dean near five years. We haven't been able to locate him since murder. Ralph. Ralph is Ranger Pearson and Ranger Morgan. I do. Mr. Dean. Sorry to hear about your wife. Yeah. Glad you're here, Rangers. Maybe you can talk some sense into the sheriff. Now, you look at here. You look here, Sheriff. I told you I want to call you. Eli Wilber killed my wife. What are you waiting for? Why you got a posse out tracking me down? Cause I'm handling this my own way, Ralph. No way man be panting around like this. Well, he's probably miles away by now. He's got to be killed, I tell you. Just the way he killed my wife. If he's guilty, we'll get him. You'll get him? I'm telling you one thing, Sheriff. That boy ain't taking care of of. I'm going to see to it you ain't elected again. Listen here, I'll be 90, taking preps from you to nobody else. Just a minute, both of you. Sheriff, take Clay into the bedroom where he can have a look at the body. I want to ask Mr. Dean a few questions. All right, J. Right through here, Claire. What makes you think Eli killed your wife, Mr. Dean? I know he's coaching there, isn't he? Ripped in half. Pieces still in Ethel's hand. She. She must. Ethel.

[Expedia Advertiser]

She's dead.

[Campaign Representative]

He's dead. Ranger, what time did you find your wife's body? Oh, about six, when I come in from the fields. And we're now pulling stumps to lay in. Wasn't Eli with you? No, he played sick today, But I don't mean no one. Did Eli come into the house often? Of course not. Only when I called him. Thanks, Mr. Dean. That'll be all for now. You're gonna get the sheriff to organize that posse. That won't be necessary. And I'm gonna organize one of my own. I got these friends here. That boy ain't gonna get away with this. We're gonna catch him. And you let us handle this. We'll get the person who killed your wife. All right, Ranger. There's no law again. It's taking a little trip into the swamps to hunt gators. Take my advice, Mr. Dean. Don't interfere with the law. She was strangled. Chase must have put up quite a fight from the look of the room. Bruises on her neck are pretty bad. Man who put them there must have strong fingers. Yeah, I've Had a good look around. Aside from that coach he's holding, there's not much in the way of evidence. The coat belongs to Boyle, all right. I'd say it looks mighty bad for him. He can't get far away. We'll put out a bulletin on him. If he's gone into those swamps, all the bulletins in the world ain't going to do no good. Has he got any relatives in town? Assistant Nelly Johnson. My deputy was there early this evening. She wouldn't tell him nothing. Don't believe you'll get much information from her. We'll try our luck anyhow. Come on, Clay.

[Nelly Johnson]

Yes?

[Campaign Representative]

You Nelly Johnson?

[Nelly Johnson]

Yes.

[Campaign Representative]

We like to talk to you.

[Nelly Johnson]

Oh, come in, sir. You too, sir.

[Campaign Representative]

We're looking for your brother, Nelly. Can you tell us where he is?

[Nelly Johnson]

He didn't do it, Mr. Ranger. I know Eli didn't kill Ms. Dean.

[Campaign Representative]

How'd you know Ms. Dean was killed, Nelly?

[Nelly Johnson]

That gentleman who worked for the sheriff, he come here early tonight looking for Eli. Say Ms. Dean was dead. I told him Eli didn't do it.

[Campaign Representative]

Maybe he didn't, but he shouldn't have run away.

[Nelly Johnson]

If he run away, it's only cause he scared.

[Campaign Representative]

Have you seen Eli tonight?

[Nelly Johnson]

No, sir. I ain't seen him for a full week. He said I. Ms. Dean's found.

[Campaign Representative]

You have any idea where he might be hiding? Oh, no, sir.

[Nelly Johnson]

Can't say as I do.

[Campaign Representative]

Nelly, if Eli killed Mrs. Dean, we're gonna catch him. He'll be punished for what he did. But if he's innocent, we're gonna protect him. You understand that, don't you?

[Nelly Johnson]

Yes, sir.

[Campaign Representative]

Then you know we have to find him. We can't help him if we don't.

[Nelly Johnson]

Mr. Ranger, you've got to believe what I say. I don't know where Eli is. I just don't know.

[Campaign Representative]

You're sure he wasn't here earlier this evening?

[Nelly Johnson]

Oh, yes, I'm real sure.

[Campaign Representative]

Nelly, these two spots here with the table leg, you know what they are?

[Nelly Johnson]

I know, sir. I don't know.

[Campaign Representative]

Fresh blood stains. Nelly, you want to tell us how they got there?

[Nelly Johnson]

Well, sir. Oh, yes. I remember now. When I was fixing supper, I cut my finger.

[Campaign Representative]

Where'd you cut your finger? Show us.

[Nelly Johnson]

I. Oh, Mr. Ranger, please.

[Campaign Representative]

If you didn't cut your fingers, somebody else must have left those blood spots. He was here tonight, wasn't he, Nellie? Eli was here. Mr. Ranger, why don't you tell us what you know? It'll be better all the way around.

[Nelly Johnson]

I don't want him to get Hurt my baby brother. I know he didn't do nothing. I don't want him to get hurt.

[Campaign Representative]

He won't get hurt, Nellie. We can promise you that. He was here, wasn't he?

[Nelly Johnson]

Yes. Yes, he was here.

[Campaign Representative]

When?

[Nelly Johnson]

About 7:30. Just after he runs from the farm.

[Campaign Representative]

Why? To run away.

[Nelly Johnson]

Found out Ms. Dean was dead. And he was scared of Ms. Dean. Scared the people in town do something to him.

[Campaign Representative]

You know where he is now?

[Nelly Johnson]

Yes. Time in the shack in the spa. Place we call old Marcus and shack. Oh please, Mr. Ranger, don't let nothing happen to Eli. Don't let nothing happen to him.

[Campaign Representative]

Don't worry, Nelly. We'll see Eli gets a fair deal all the way through. By the way, how'd he get hurt?

[Nelly Johnson]

Hurt?

[Campaign Representative]

He must have been bleeding when he came here. How'd it happen?

[Nelly Johnson]

He won't tell Mr. Dean I told you.

[Campaign Representative]

Just tell us how it happened, Nelly.

[Nelly Johnson]

Well, sir, Ms. Dean come after Eli, say kill Ms. Dean. He beat Eli, Make Eli's face bleed.

[Campaign Representative]

All right, Nelly. Thanks. You know, Jake, she might have been telling the truth about how Eli got hurt. But it could be Mrs. Dean scratched him while they were struggling. I don't think so. There would have been skin under her fingernails and there wasn't. But if Gene did beat up Eli, it means he saw him after the murder. Uhuh. If he did, it's something he forgot to tell me. Well, maybe we ought to have another shot with you. We will. After we pick up Eli. Find out how to get to Moccasin Shack. The sheriff wasn't in his office, but his deputy told us how to reach the shack Nelly had described. We drove to the edge of town, unloaded our horses from the trailer and rode toward the swamp. We reached it about 9 that morning and started in. Shouldn't be far now, Jace. There's the Three Oaks and the Willow the deputy told us about. Uh huh. Jack ought to be about a hundred yards in from here. Not exactly the kind of place I'd like to spend a vacation. Well, I never heard anybody advertising it as a resort, but fool shot for fool. Clay, listen. Sounds like we're not the only ones out after Eli this morning. Yeah. Reckon Dean didn't take my advice after all. Let's get going. That could mean a lot of trouble. At least they don't seem to know where Eli is. Let's hope we do. We got a hunch Nelly was telling the truth. If Eli hasn't heard those dogs and taken off deeper into the swamp, we ought to find him. It won't take us long to know. Hey, just a shank. Bull. Charming Toes Place he's l to make a break here. Looks integer. Yeah, I thought it was at first, too, sir. This piece of rotten flooring. All right, Eli, come up out of there.

[Nelly Johnson]

Urangan.

[Campaign Representative]

Thank God. Oh, thank God. Well, I'll be under the floorboard.

[Nelly Johnson]

Please. Please don't let them get me. Please.

[Campaign Representative]

Nobody's gonna get you, Eli. You're coming back to town with us. Trust me. They won't listen to nothing I got to say. I hear them the whole night. They got gobbled all up. Eli. Yes, sir. Please don't let them hurt me. They want to kill me.

[Nelly Johnson]

I know they want to kill me.

[Campaign Representative]

Don't worry. If anybody's going to get you, you'll have to get us first. In just a moment, we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. None of us would knowingly betray our country or endanger our loved ones and homes. Yet each of us betrays all these when we are tolerant of or don't fight back at group prejudice when we stand for such hate. We're doing the very thing that communists want us to do. They'd like to see us divided. Christian against Jew, white neighbor against colored neighbor, or native born against foreign born. If our enemies could divide all the small groups that that make up this country, then we would be weak and could be easily overcome. Now, as probably never before, we need to be united as an example to our allies who look to us for hope and as a warning to our enemies that we are truly a United States of America. Work for understanding, accept or reject people on their individual worth. Refuse to listen to or spread rumors against a race or religion. Speak up wherever you are, against prejudice. And now back to Tales of the Texas Rangers. We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story. Cold Blood. We got Eli out of the shack and onto my horse. If we started for town, we could hear the sound of dogs men getting closer. When we reached solid ground and came into a clearing, we saw them range across the path we had to take. There were eight of them on horses with Bean at their head. The people men were silent as we stopped at the edge of the clearing, 30 yards away from them. They look pretty mean, Jace. They're all armed. I know they're going to get you. Take it easy, Eli. What do you say, Jace? We'll go through. Walk your horse slow and don't say anything unless they speak to you. Us, Eli? Yeah. There's a fight. Something happens to our horse. Stay close to me. You reckon they'll be crazy enough to try anything? Won't be long till we find out. Kept Chucky. Don't look like they're going to move you.

[Nelly Johnson]

Maybe not.

[Campaign Representative]

Morning, Rangers. Morning, Mr. Dean. If you don't mind, we'd like to get past. Sure, Angel. Sure. Just so does Harry. Since we all met out here. Have a nice friendly talk. I'm glad you mentioned it because I want to have a talk with you. Right now. I'm a little busy. Yeah. Got yourself a prisoner, I see. We didn't do so good in our hunt. Overnight at it. And we're empty handed. Too bad. If you and your friends would get out of the way, we'd like to get our man back to town. Inspect. You would wonder how it would be if we helped you be ashamed if we got away after you took so much trouble getting him. We'll manage. All right, Ranger. Open up there for the rangers, boys. Thanks. I meant what I said about that talk. We'll be out to see you this afternoon. Sure, anytime. And Ranger. Yeah? Just make sure that boy there gets a kind of trial he deserves. I believe he will. Now. It was past noon when we got Eli back to town and into a cell. He was still scared, but recovered enough to eat a good sized meal. At one o' clock we went up to question him. Sheriff led Clay and me along to the cell block. Well, one thing, Jace. You can be sure Eli's gonna get all the attention we can give him. He's the only prisoner we got now. Probably better that way. Don't know what beam this gang might try. Damn. Clay told me you had a little trouble on the way in. But I don't expect him to try much now. Bunch of blow hard? No, the same. I wouldn't like to bend Eli if they had caught him out in that swamp. Yeah, that's different. But here in the lockup, me and my deputies on the job. Yeah. I'll be down in the corridor. Holler when you want me. Thanks, Sheriff. Hello, Eli. You feel better now? Yes, sir. Much better. Not so scared now. Good. We just want to ask you a few questions. Yes, sir. Eli, did you kill Mrs. Dean? No, sir. Your coat was found in her hand, Mr. Ranger. I don't know how come my coat got me jeans hands, but I didn't fill her the. Did you tell Mr. Dean you were sick yesterday afternoon? Sick? No, sir. I never been sick a day in my life. Mr. Dean said that you told him you Were wonder how come he said that he knowed I wasn't sick. Sent me out in the field with the mule. Told me to pull some. And you went out there? Yes, sir. I was out there all afternoon.

[Nelly Johnson]

Come in toward evening.

[Campaign Representative]

Mr. Dean with you? No, sir. He stayed in to the house. Said Ms. Dean, she don't feel so good. She didn't sound like she was sick. How do you mean? I come up to the house after lunch to find out what I got to do the rest of the day. I hear Ms. Dean talking pretty loud to Mr. Dean. Did you hear what she was saying? No, sir. I don't listen much no more. Ms. Dean, she always speaks right sharp to Mr. Dean. Eli, when did you see Mr. Dean last? When he come to my shack after I come in from the field. Why did he come to see you? Cause Ms. Dean was dead.

[Nelly Johnson]

Mr. Dean say I die.

[Campaign Representative]

He wouldn't listen to nothing. I didn't kill Ms. Dean.

[Nelly Johnson]

I swear I didn't.

[Campaign Representative]

Did anybody else see you out in the field yesterday afternoon? Well, no, sir. Don't reckon nobody did. Eli, were you working all afternoon? Yes, sir, I was working the whole. No, sir. I forgot. I quit once. Once? What for? I stopped this kill. Mere rattler. You what? There was a big rattler curled up in the sun next to a stump.

[Nelly Johnson]

I didn't see him till the news creed.

[Campaign Representative]

Then I picked up a rock and let fe fly. Killed him right off. Did you leave the snake line where you killed him? Yes, sir. I got no use for no rattler, dead or alive. Eli, this is important. I want you to tell me exactly where you killed that rattlesnake. Well, sir, it was someplace in Mr. Dean's north field. With so much happened since you said it, I don't recollect just where. Reckon we'll have to stage our own private snake hunt, huh? Some folks say it's bad luck to kill a rattling. Feels like mine's already started. Don't worry, Eli. Killing that rattler might bring you more good luck than anything you ever did. We found the dead rattler where Eli said he'd killed it. In Bean's north field. We took the remains of the snake with us, figuring our lab could tell us approximately how long it had been dead. Then we decided to call our hand with Dean, but he wasn't home. We headed for town. It was 5:20 when we pulled up in front of the sheriff's office. He was standing outside. I could tell something was wrong even before he reached the top. Jake. Hey. I was just gonna Call your headquarters and have him get you fellas on the radio. What's wrong? Somebody just broke in the jail. I took Eli away. Holy. Who was it, Sheriff? That's just it, Jason. Don't know. I'd swear it was Ralph Dean and his bunch, but I don't know. How did happen? Well, everything was quiet. There wasn't even nothing you could feel in town like you sometimes can. I went home for supper and left my deputy here. They broke in then? Yep, Got my deputy. Guess who was coming down from taking Eli's supper. Slugged him and got the key.

[Nelly Johnson]

Didn't even get looked at.

[Campaign Representative]

Oh, I never sort of left and you couldn't have known. The thing we've got to do now is somebody awfully excited about it. Why, Attorney Matthews, I've been trying to cause. Well, what are you to Ernie? Because my brother. The boy hadn't said. Yeah, what about him?

[Nelly Johnson]

I got him cutting nothing but scum. Last thing in the rest of his car.

[Campaign Representative]

It's crazy, Sheriff Plum. Where were they heading?

[Nelly Johnson]

Don't know. Not cutting wood. Back to my place. Home. Riding past.

[Campaign Representative]

Got the boy.

[Nelly Johnson]

They're crazy.

[Campaign Representative]

They're going away from town. Past your place, probably Graham Woods, Jason. Come on, Sheriff, show us where it is. The sheriff drove ahead and we followed. When we got as far as we could by road. We unloaded the horses and the sheriff pointed out Grim Woods. Clay and I started out. Five minutes later we were entering the woods. Just getting dark as we picked up the trail. Track seem to lead right into the woods. J. Yeah. Hope we're not too late. At least we won't have any trouble getting the ones that did it. That's not enough. I got to save that boy's life. Over there to the left. We ride in as close as we can and make the rest of it on foot. Wouldn't it be fast if we went all the way on horses? Yeah. The here is coming up Eli and take off before we get there. They're probably too busy to hear anything. They won't take the chance. Have to be close enough. We'll check. You playing here?

[Nelly Johnson]

Oh, please listen to me.

[Campaign Representative]

I didn't kill this.

[Nelly Johnson]

You got to listen to me like.

[Campaign Representative]

The boys want you to have your ass. All right, go ahead. It's him, huh? Are you waiting for me, Larry? You wanted to talk, we're listening.

[Nelly Johnson]

I know it ain't no use Mr. Be. But I tell you again, I didn't.

[Campaign Representative]

Kill Mr. D. Why was your coat going in my wagon? I don't know, Mr. Hit her hands. And you ran away, Mr. D. Honest. That's enough for me. What about you boys? Don't kill me. Don't kill me. You got your rope ready? Hold it. All of you, drop those guns. I said drop those guns. That's better. Now all of you stay where you are. I'm tired of Eli play. Get him down off that horse. Right. All right, Ranger, you stopped us. What for? He's gonna die anyhow. He never had a chance to prove his innocence. He's a murderer, ain't he? He killed my wife. I'm not so sure of that. You found his coat. Nessel's hands. What more do you want? It could be I didn't leave that coat. What are you talking about, Ranger? Let me see your hands, Dean. What for? Let me see him. No, the backs. How'd you get those bruises on your knuckles? They're from pulling stumps yesterday. You sure they didn't get booze from beating up Eli? You're crazy. I never beat him up. Maybe waited until Eli came in from work, accused him of killing your wife, beat him up and let him get away so you could get your gang of hoodlums after him. Nice. A lie. I never seen Eli. I was working in the fields all afternoon. Alone. Eli says he was the only one working in the field. Oh, he does? Hey, well, whose word are you going to take? Wait a minute, Dean. We might be able to prove Eli was in the field. Oh? He said he killed a rattlesnake. We found it where he said it would be. If our lab says it was killed yesterday afternoon, it's pretty good proof. You're trying to railroad me. You know better, Nat. But you gotta prove where you were yesterday afternoon, One eye. Gotta prove anything poor. Because if you don't, you got a murder charge against you for killing your wife. Yeah, hear that point? You gonna stand here and let him take sides against this? The only side I'm taking is the law of Texas. Come on, we're going back to town. I ain't going nowhere. I said come on. You ain't. Take a seat. No. Get up. Be all right? Correct. Come on.

[Nelly Johnson]

Stop.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Over.

[Campaign Representative]

Go. Get up. Hey, you're going to get something. You tried to keep Eli from having a fair trial. Go on, Eli. Yes, sir? You walk with me. Yes, sir. In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard. There's fine entertainment every day right here on the NBC radio network. Monday through Friday. You'll find interesting daytime programs on this station too. There's fun with Walter o' Keefe as he quizzes his contestants on Double or Nothing. Listen and you'll find this one of the funniest programs on the air. And making a note to hear the program of a heart striker. Strike It Rich. You'll hear people from all over the country on Strike It Rich and unwelcome travelers, too. Maybe your neighbors will be the next guests on these fine programs. So keep listening. Every day, Monday through Friday on NBC in the Mad and Mary department, we bring you the Ralph Edwards show on most indie stations, listeners. Ralph plays Truth or Consequences with his contestants and brings you enjoyable listening. And Dave Galway brings you 15 minutes of music and humor each weekday. It's all for fun and fun for all when you tune to NBC Daytime radio. So make it a day to brighten your household chores with a fine program sent your way every day on this station of the NBC Radio Network. And now back to Tales of the Texas Rangers. And now, here are the results of the case you have just heard. Laboratory investigation of the rattlesnake upheld Lei Wilder's story. Faced with this and other evidence, Ralph Dean confessed to killing his wife after a violent quarrel over money. The seven men who assisted the attempted lynching were tried before a jury of the citizens of their own county and given prescribed jail terms. Dean, convicted of murder, was sentenced to life imprisonment at Huntville. Next week, Joel McCrae in another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers. The cast included Tony Barrett, Vivian Baber, Bob Davis, Parley Bear, Herb Ellis and Bill Johnstone. Technical advisor was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charles E. Israel and the program is prod produced and directed by Stacy Keats. Hal Gibney speaking Next. The big show brings you drama, comedy and music on NBC.

[Teen Advocate]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it. A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, I tried this once. It won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem. It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

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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 join in the conversation by going to otrwesterns.Com Discord and don't forget to send us an email. Podcasttrwesterns.com this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and again, thanks for listening.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me at flavors hook Oregon kids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.