Episode Summary: "Cry of a Killer | Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok"
Podcast Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rines
Episode Title: Cry of a Killer | Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok
Original Air Date: March 25, 1953
Release Date: February 15, 2025
Introduction
In the "Cry of a Killer" episode of Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok, hosted by Andrew Rines, listeners are transported to the treacherous landscapes of the Wild West. Featuring the legendary duo Wild Bill Hickok, portrayed by Guy Madison, and his trusty sidekick Jingles, voiced by Andy Devine, this episode delves into a suspenseful mystery involving a supposed ghostly cougar terrorizing the Cheyenne, Wyoming frontier.
Plot Overview
Initial Encounter on the Mesa
The episode kicks off with Wild Bill and Jingles traversing a desolate mesa when they hear a blood-chilling cry. Suspicious of a lurking danger, they discover the body of a man, initially presumed to be the victim of a cougar attack.
- Quote:
Guy Madison (Wild Bill): "Bill. Did you hear that?" [02:42]
Approach to T Bench Ranch
Deciding to investigate further, the duo heads to the nearby T Bench Ranch to seek assistance. Upon arrival, they encounter Ira Belder and his associates, Frenchie and Builder, who display hostility towards the newcomers.
- Quote:
Ira Belder: "We don't put up killers at the T Bench. You better be riding on." [04:08]
Tension and Betrayal
As tension escalates, it's revealed that the supposed ghostly cougar is a ruse orchestrated by the ranchers to intimidate others and rustle cattle. Frenchie openly threatens Wild Bill and Jingles, exposing their deceitful intentions.
- Quote:
Guy Madison (Wild Bill): "You'll have to use silver bullets to kill that cat, stranger. It's a ghost." [04:37]
Introduction of Rocky
Rocky, Ira Belder's nephew, enters the scene, expressing doubts about his uncle's involvement. He provides Wild Bill with crucial background on the ranch's recent troubles, hinting at internal sabotage and cattle rustling.
- Quote:
Rocky: "I wish I had something definite, but I haven't." [10:19]
Climactic Confrontation
Determined to uncover the truth, Wild Bill decides to investigate the area around a mysterious cave where the cougar's cries originate. Despite Jingles' apprehensions, Bill ventures into the darkness, leading to a suspense-filled showdown.
- Quote:
Guy Madison (Wild Bill): "I ain't gonna do it. No, sir, Ray Bob. S. Billy, you ain't gonna find nothing out on this forsaken mesa." [07:55]
Resolution
In the ensuing confrontation, it’s unveiled that Frenchie was masquerading as the phantom cougar to manipulate and control the ranch operations. Wild Bill and Jingles successfully thwart the deceitful plans, ensuring justice is served and restoring peace to the mesa.
- Quote:
Guy Madison (Wild Bill): "Hey, you mean Frenchie was a cougar? How'd you know it was him, Bill?" [22:21]
Key Characters
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Wild Bill Hickok (Guy Madison): The steadfast U.S. Marshal committed to upholding law and order in the Wild West.
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Jingles (Andy Devine): Wild Bill’s loyal and resourceful sidekick, providing both humor and support.
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Ira Belder (Ira Belder): The antagonist rancher orchestrating the ghostly threats to control the local cattle trade.
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Frenchie (Frenchie): Ira’s henchman, who impersonates the ghostly cougar to instill fear.
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Rocky (Rocky): Ira’s nephew, who becomes an ally to Wild Bill, aiding in uncovering the truth.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Wild Bill Hickok: "Bill. Did you hear that?" [02:42]
- Ira Belder: "We don't put up killers at the T Bench. You better be riding on." [04:08]
- Wild Bill Hickok: "You'll have to use silver bullets to kill that cat, stranger. It's a ghost." [04:37]
- Rocky: "I wish I had something definite, but I haven't." [10:19]
- Wild Bill Hickok: "I ain't gonna do it. No, sir, Ray Bob. S. Billy, you ain't gonna find nothing out on this forsaken mesa." [07:55]
- Wild Bill Hickok: "Hey, you mean Frenchie was a cougar? How'd you know it was him, Bill?" [22:21]
Insights and Themes
"Cry of a Killer" masterfully blends elements of suspense, deception, and justice, hallmark traits of classic Western narratives. The episode underscores themes such as the struggle between good and evil, the importance of vigilance, and the triumph of truth over deceit. Wild Bill Hickok embodies the quintessential Western hero—brave, principled, and unwavering in the face of danger.
The portrayal of the “ghostly cougar” as a fabricated threat highlights the lengths to which individuals might go to exert control and manipulate others for personal gain. Rocky's internal conflict and eventual alliance with Wild Bill emphasize the moral integrity essential for maintaining order in tumultuous times.
Conclusion
"Cry of a Killer" stands out as a riveting installment in the Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok series. With stellar performances by Guy Madison and Andy Devine, the episode captivates listeners through its engaging storyline, rich character development, and atmospheric soundscapes. Andrew Rines' meticulous digital restoration ensures that the episode's classic charm is preserved and enhanced, offering both nostalgia for longtime fans and accessibility for new audiences.
Listeners are left with a satisfying resolution that reaffirms the enduring legacy of Wild Bill Hickok as a symbol of justice in the rugged Wild West.