Dead Man’s Hand | Hopalong Cassidy (01-01-50)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: Dead Man’s Hand | Hopalong Cassidy (01-01-50)

Podcast Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: January 1, 1950
Podcast Episode Date: April 3, 2026
Featured Characters: Hopalong Cassidy (William Boyd), California (Andy Clyde), Doc Sheldon, Sally Kirby, Kit Kirby

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored broadcast of “Dead Man’s Hand,” starring the legendary Hopalong Cassidy and his loyal sidekick, California. The story unfolds as Hoppy responds to a mysterious plea for help from his old friend Kit Kirby, a gold miner in trouble. What begins as an act of friendship quickly leads them into the heart of a deadly conspiracy in the lawless town of Indian Spring, where murder, gold, and a faked death all play a role in a tightly-woven tale of Western intrigue.

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Key Discussion Points and Story Breakdown

The Mysterious Letter and Setting Out ([01:40-05:43])

• Hoppy and California at Bar 20 Ranch: As winter approaches, Hopalong Cassidy receives a suspicious letter allegedly from Kit Kirby pleading for help, but Hoppy quickly spots the handwriting as a forgery.
  • Quote:
    “Someone wants us to come to Indian Spring, California. And they want it badly enough to forge this letter.” (Hopalong Cassidy, [03:34])
• Decision to Investigate: Hoppy and California ride out to Indian Spring, suspecting a deeper plot.

Arrival in Indian Spring & Encounter at the Saloon ([05:43-10:04])

• A Lawless Town: The pair immediately sense fear and lawlessness; the townsfolk, including a bartender named Jerry, warn them to move along rather than stay.
• Suspicion Grows: Hoppy observes a high-stake poker game and a gunfight where Luke Barry is apparently killed by Doc Sheldon under dubious circumstances.
• First Clues: Hoppy questions why a man holding a winning hand would draw his gun first and suspects the incident isn’t what it seems.
  • Quote:
    “Now, why should that guy with a winning hand pull a gun first?” (Hopalong Cassidy, [09:04])

Seeking Out Sally Kirby and the Town’s Dark Secrets ([10:04-14:57])

• Meeting Sally Kirby: Sally confides her fears; after Kit’s gold strike with his late partner Joe, violence and intimidation swept the town.
  • Quote:
    “We’re afraid. The whole town’s afraid. I wished a thousand times Kit hadn’t found that gold.” (Sally Kirby, [10:08])
• A Community Under Siege: Attempts to inform the authorities and the public (paper office burned, sheriff fled) have been squashed.
• Revealing the Forged Letter: Sally admits to writing the letter to Hoppy, desperate for help for Kit, who’s stranded and running out of supplies in the mountains.
  • Quote:
    “I did write that letter, but it was only because Kit needs help so desperately. Even if he could get a letter to you, you know how proud he is.” (Sally Kirby, [12:04])

Hoppy’s Investigation And The Fake Death ([14:57-20:52])

• Hoppy’s Midnight Experiment: At 4 AM, Hoppy and California reconstruct the barroom shooting and find evidence it was staged with blank cartridges.
  • Quote:
    “There was no killing here this afternoon. That was a put up job to make Sally Kirby think Luke is dead.” (Hopalong Cassidy, [17:42])
• Overhearing the Conspirators: Hidden beneath the poker table, Hoppy eavesdrops on Luke Barry and Doc Sheldon plotting to murder Kit and cover their tracks, all under orders from an unseen Santa Fe boss.
  • Quote:
    "Best protection you got is staying dead... When the boss files for Kirby’s claim, I’ll see you in six weeks in Santa Fe.” (Conspirators, [21:12])

The Funereal Twist and Rallying the Town ([20:52-24:58])

• Luke Barry’s Funeral: Hoppy interrupts the “funeral” and demands the coffin be opened—inside is not Luke but the missing Sheriff Underwood.
  • Quote:
    “Who’s in it? ... Good Lord. Why, it’s. It’s Sheriff Underwood.” (Hoppy, [24:56])
• Challenging Town’s Fear: Hoppy rallies the townspeople to stop being cowed by violence.
  • Quote:
    “You want to lie down and keep taking it, there’s plenty of rats who will keep walking on you. It’s up to you. How much longer are you going to take it?” (Hopalong Cassidy, [25:21])

Showdown in the Pass and the Unmasking ([26:28-31:58])

• Escort Down the Mountain: Hoppy orchestrates the descent from the mine, cleverly rearranging the riders to expose Doc Sheldon’s deadly plan.
• Reversal of the Ambush: Hoppy and California thwart the assassination by impersonating Luke and swapping positions, prompting Doc to confess under pressure.
• Comic Relief and Wrap-Up: California jokes about his nearly-too-accurate shooting during the staged attack.
  • Quote:
    “That shooting in Whitewater Pass... when you shoot to miss, you sure don’t leave much room to spare.” (Hopalong Cassidy, [32:11])
    “Miss? Did you tell me to miss him? Lordy, Hoppy, I was trying all the time to hit him!” (California, [32:23])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Forgery Recognized ([03:34])
  Hopalong: “Because you see, I know Kit’s handwriting and this letter is a bad imitation.”
• Barroom Tension ([07:37])
  Jerry: “If you’re smart, you get right back on that horse of yours.”
• Figuring Out the Ruse ([17:42])
  Hopalong: “There was no killing here this afternoon. That was a put up job to make Sally Kirby think Luke is dead.”
• The Town’s Turning Point ([25:21])
  Hopalong: “You want to lie down and keep taking it, there’s plenty of rats who will keep walking on you. It’s up to you. How much longer are you going to take it?”
• The Finale’s Comic Beat ([32:23])
  California: “Miss? Did you tell me to miss him? Lordy, Hoppy, I was trying all the time to hit him!”

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Important Timestamps

| Time | Segment | |-----------|------------------------------------------------| | 01:40 | Episode opens—Hoppy receives Kit’s letter | | 05:43 | Arrival in Indian Spring—the saloon scene | | 10:04 | Meeting with Sally Kirby | | 14:57 | Hoppy and California reconstruct the card table| | 17:42 | The “shooting” exposed as a set-up | | 20:52 | Overhearing the murder plot in the bar | | 24:56 | The coffin is opened—Sheriff Underwood inside | | 25:21 | Hoppy’s speech rallies the town | | 27:02 | Descent from the mine—positions set for ambush | | 28:51 | Doc Sheldon confesses under fire | | 32:11 | Comic ending—California’s marksmanship |

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Tone & Style

The episode stays true to the classic Western tone: suspenseful, witty, with a clear sense of right and wrong. Hopalong embodies resourceful heroism, while California offers comic relief. Dialogue is brisk and colloquial, steeped in frontier lingo and dry humor, with moral undercurrents about standing up to fear and corruption.

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Summary

“Dead Man’s Hand” delivers a satisfying blend of intrigue, action, and heart. Through sharpened audio and faithful performances, the episode brings Hopalong Cassidy’s world vibrantly to life—a tale of forged letters, faked deaths, mountain gold, and a showdown where the cleverness and courage of the Bar 20 crew once more triumph over greed and villainy.

Transcript

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

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[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and let's get into this episode this episode is Going to be Hopalong Cassidy Original air date is January 1, 1950 in this episode 20, after receiving a letter from Hoppy's friend Kit Kirby, a gold miner, Hoppy suspects something isn't right and rides to find out what it is. Title of this episode is Dead Man's Hand. Hope you enjoy. And again, thanks for listening.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

It's Hopalong Cassidy. With action and suspense. Out of the Old west comes the most famous hero of them all. Hop Along, Cassidy, starring William Boy. The jingle of the silver spurs heralds that fabulous figure of the early West, Halfalong Cassidy. The same Hoppy you cheer in motion pictures, with the same California you've laughed at a hundred times in your local theater. These famous partners come riding into radio just to as you've asked for them. William Boyd as Hopalong Cassidy and Andy Clyde as California. Our story tonight, Dead Man's Hand. With winter coming on and the snow beginning to crawl down the distant mountains, there are a hundred things to be done around the Bar 20 ranch. But Hopalong Cassidy knows that some of those things will have to wait, for he and California are going to have another job to do. Oh, it might be an easy job, like just giving a friend a helping hand. Then again, it might mean tangling with a treacherous gang who put gold nuggets above human life. How incarnation am I going to get my work done with you snaking me in Offing the range like a lamed up dog. I wouldn't have sent that writer out after you without a pretty good reason. California. Well, here's her up. Let's have her. You remember Kit Kirby? I remember Kit. Why, he was one of the best hands we ever had. He's in trouble. Listen to this letter I got this morning. Dear Hoppy, I'm writing you because I think you're the only friend I got left. Gold is where you find it, they say. And my partner Joe and I found it after three years in these godforsaken mountains. Our first samples essayed $500 to the ton. Gee, we Williams, that's a rich strike. Sure is. We thought we were lucky until the day Joe left with the second batch of samples. And I found him 10 hours later in Whitewater Pass with a bullet in his back. So I'm alone now. But that's not why I'm writing you. My wife Sally is alone too, in Indian Spring. And she needs help, Harvey. Your kind of help. That's all I can say now. Wish me luck, pal. Kit Kirby. Sounds like the boy has got hisself in trouble. Yeah, I believe Kit's in real trouble. More than this letter tells. Because you see, I know Kit's handwriting and this letter is a bad imitation. You mean. You mean it ain't? Someone wants us to come to Indian Spring, California. And they want it badly enough to forge this letter. Now a word from your announcer.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

This week with digital coupons at Safeway and Albertsons get beef rib roast for 7.97 per pound member price with minimum purchase of $50 or more in a single transaction. Exclusions apply. See store for details. And broccoli, cauliflower or Russet potatoes are $0.97 per pound Member Price limit £6 plus selected sizes and varieties of lucerne butter cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese are $1.97 each. Member price. Visit safeway or albertsons.com for more deals and ways to.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Sa.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Now back to hopalong cassidy. There was a four day ride behind them when Hoppy and California pulled into the rough, dirty little town of Indian Springs. And as they walked into the town's rickety hotel, past a poker game to the bar, Hoppy knew that only Gold would bring Kit Kirby to a place like this. Jackson. Better to open. Raise you, Ed? I'm good to. How many? How many what? Well, all we got whiskey. So I don't ask, what do you want? I ask, how many? And suppose a fellow wants a room for the night? How long are you staying? Does that make any difference? Well, not to me, but might to you. If I were you, I'd ride on to Saguara in the morning. You know, mister. Well, Sam, I'd say you were scared of something. Well, it ain't only me. It's everybody around here. Look, if you're smart, you get right back on that horse of yours. Jerry. Yeah, Luke. You're around here to 10 Paul, ain't you, Jerry?

[VRBO Announcer]

Sure, sure.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Caught you shooting off your mouth instead of them that drink. Yeah, right away. Luke. Jerry the Jackrabbit. Look at him jump. Talking all the time. Talking. Any objections? Yeah, talking can get a man into a heap of trouble, pal. Remember that on your way out of town tomorrow. Okay, boys, this is the money hand I want to be in at the start. Give me five big ones. Gosh, hockey. I wouldn't turn my back and hitch and post in this town. Look at that poker game. Twenty dollar limit. I'd feel plum naked here without a six gun. Here comes Jerry. Look, mister, this town's no place for a cow poke on the loose. Now, take my advice. Ride on to Saro, Trail's plain and you'll have a move. Why Saro? They got the law in Saro. Government, Marshal. You mean there's no law around here? Well, don't know. Nobody's seen the sheriff and day before yesterday. Now that Luke Barry over there, he's a killer. Got the whole town buffaloed. Oh, there's going to be trouble. I can smell it. Maybe I don't smell as sharp as you, Jay. Dirty skunk. Double check me, will you?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I'll show you. Get down.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

I got it. Take it easy. You sure got Luke. That was fast growing, Doc. I saw him pull a gun on me. It was self defense. I had to shoot him. Well, sure, sure, Doc. Well, I'm still a doctor and it's my duty to see what I can do for him. Help me get him over to my office. Now. You can come up from behind the bar now, Jerry. Luke. What was it? Was it Luke? Why, nobody ever pulled a gun on Luke before. Well, I better get him over to my office fast. I'm afraid it's too late. But I'll do what I can. You're awful concerned about a fella he just shot. Who is that, Jay? Oh, that's Doc Sheldon. He's got a shingle hanging out right across the street. Come on, California, let's take a look. Look for what? Hobby? Ain't we already seen enough? This is a funny one. Why are you looking at them cars? Well, this is the dead man's hand. California. And I find it very interesting this. This Luke fella sitting here, wasn't he? That's right. And the fellow who shot him was here. What do you say we just forget the cards? Wait a minute, California. Luke said something about the other fella double decking him. Pulled his gun first. That right? Well, sounded like that. It was under a table by that time. Take a look at the card. Luke's got a full house here. The other man held a pair of tens. Now, why should that guy with a winning hand pull a gun first? Well, maybe. Maybe he was drunk. Oh, not that drunk. What's on your mind? Oh, just something to think about, that's all. Fix us up at the room, will you? My name's McKinney. This is California Jones. Looks like we'll be here in Indian Spring for quite a while. Well, it's your funeral maybe, don't you think? And, Jerry, could you tell us where Kit Kirby's wife lives? I'd kind of like to ride out and see her tonight.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I'm so glad to see you, Mr. Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

My kid is very close to me, Mrs. Kirby.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, we do need help. We're afraid. The whole town's afraid. I wished a thousand times Tiff hadn't found that gold.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

You think that has something to do with it?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

It has everything to do with it. The night Joe brought in the first sample, someone broke into the assay office and stole the report. That's how news of the strike got out. Joe went to Sheriff Underwood, but I guess someone else got there first.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

How's that?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Well, the sheriff seemed afraid to do anything. Then Mr. Sarks at Wells Fargo called a protest meeting. He was attacked on the street the next night. Left town after he got a note threatening her family.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Well, didn't anyone do anything about it?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

The editor of the weekly paper tried to. He wrote up the story together with what he knew about the gold strike. But the paper never came out.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Well, why not?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

His office burned to the ground last night. Week presses and all.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

That bartender finally knew what he was talking about. When was Kit's partner shot?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

On the trail just before the fire. That's when I knew it was more than I could handle, Mr. Cassidy. Sheriff Underwood promised me he'd do something, but.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Yeah, but he left town in a hurry, too. You got any idea who's behind this, Mr. Kirby?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I thought it was Luke Barry until this afternoon.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

You heard about the shooting? Yes.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I want to give you something, Mr. Cassidy. It's a map that'll tell you how to get to the mine after the trail leaves Whitewater Pass. I just threw it from memory. No one knows how to get there. You see, there's a maze of mountains and canyons beyond the pass gets up there now, huh? He hasn't come out for a month. I haven't even seen him in that long.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Well, now, isn't it surprising that I got a letter from him dated less than three weeks ago? I guess I thought maybe he'd sent it out by you. But you say you haven't seen him. You know, Mrs. Kirby, it's awfully hard to help when you just know half the story.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

All right, I'll tell you. I did write that letter, but it was only because Kit needs help so desperately. And even if he could get a letter to you, you know how proud he is. He'd never ask anyone for help.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

I know he's got more spirit than Topper. That say no Art Christopher's a mighty fine bit of horse flesh.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

It was wrong of me to sign Kit's name to that letter. I know. But you do understand why I did it?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Yes, I do, Mrs. Kirby. But just don't make a practice of it or somebody else might not understand. Now, about Kit. He's afraid he might get the same reception as his partner if he starts down the trail. So he's just sitting tight, huh?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Yes, but he has to come out, Mr. Cassidy. It's snowing up there already and he's almost out of supplies.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

What about the gold?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Well, that's up there, too. Over $40,000 worth of it. And it's got to come out sometime through Indian Spring. Wells Fargo.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Tell me, is there anyone in town you know you can trust?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Just Doc Sheldon. He's one of Kip's best friends.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

He was.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, I see him coming up to work now.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Children. Mr. Kirby, we'll be in the next room. Don't tell him we're here.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

But he.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Please.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, all right.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Come on. California. Right behind you.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Hello, Doc.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Sally. You heard about Luke Barry?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I heard he was shot. Is?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

He died in my office an hour ago. He drew a gun on me. First clear cut case of self defense. Half a dozen witnesses. I thought you'd want to know. Sally, Luke told me everything.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

What? Why, what do you mean?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Doc, he was back at the whole thing. That business at the assay office, the fire, all of it. Sally, honey, I think we're out of the woods now. A reign of terror is over.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I'm not so sure.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

You still think Luke was working for someone else?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, I don't know, Doc. It's been such a nightmare. I can't think anymore.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

You've got to think, Sally. But, Kit, you've got to get out of the mountains before the snow bottles him up.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Any news on the shelf?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Haven't heard. I think he's gone to Saguaro for the marshal. Take a look out the window there. What at? Sky. Snow could hit those mountains again tonight. It doesn't make sense. Sally. We've got to go up there and get Kit out.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I told you I arranged for the sheriff.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Doc, I tell you, this secrecy business is only hurting. Chip Winter doesn't wait for anyone.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

All right, Doc. If the sheriff isn't back by tomorrow morning, I'll take you up.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

That's better, Sally. Now you're being sensible. I'll be here tomorrow morning at sun up.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Yes, Doc. I'll be ready.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Good night, Sally.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Good night.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

You say you can trust him?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Well, I think so.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

I hope so.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

You mean I shouldn't have promised to guide him up there?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

No, that part's all right. But stall him as long as you can tomorrow morning. Come on, California. Where are we going, Harpy? Best place I know at the moment. To bed. California. California, wake up. California. No, thank you, ma'. Am. No more meatballs. I get all gross. Turkey. I can always think of food. California. Hoppy. What time is it? Why? Get your britches on. It's dark. What? Get your britches on. I got an idea. Great time to get ideas. Hobby. Run me ragged all day ducking lead in the bar room. Then ain't got the decent. Hurry up. Can't find my boots and maybe my eyes are still closed. Never mind the boots, just the britches. You ready? Yeah, but. Come on. What? Scott? India. What time in the morning is it anyway? It's four o'. Clock. Now be very quiet and follow me right down the stairway into the bar room. What is. I want to try a little experiment. I give up. I'm going to get me a nice quiet job in a truck wagon somewhere. Getting up at four in the morning to do sperm. When a man works as hard as I do, hobby, he needs his 40 winch. Here we are. This is the table. What table? Where the boys were playing poker this afternoon. Now, you sit there. That's it. And I'll sit here facing you with the bar at my back. Now, you're Luke Barry and you're holding the high hand. But for some reason or other you tell me I'm double Decking and drawing. Me? What kind of. Wait a minute. Oh, I'm a long suffering critter. Why, I. Go ahead. Go on, Huffy. I'm Luke Barry. You shoot once and miss, then we trade shots. You miss again, I don't. Then I fire two more and it's over. Now we can go back to bass. I don't get it. California. You miss me twice. Mike, what happened to your bullets? Look. Not a mark on the bar. If you shot high, you'd have busted that mirror behind it into a million pieces. Wait a minute. Hobby? You mean. Them shots were hoppy. Where'd you launch it? Under the table. Come on down. Help me look. What you looking for? Let's see now. If it weren't for a mighty dart, I'd help you find it. But that is if I knew what it was, of course. Ah, here we are. I thought the truth. Sheldon was pretty hasty packing Luke Barry off to his office. What you got? Ah, there was no killing here this afternoon. That was a put up job to make Santa Crudley think Luke is dead.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

This week with digital coupons at Safeway and Albertsons, get beef rib roast for $7.97 per pound. Member price with minimum purchase of $50 or more in a single transaction. Exclusions apply. See store for details and Broccoli, cauliflower or russet potatoes are 97 cents per pound. Member price limit 6 pounds plus selected sizes and varieties of Lucerne butter cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese are $1.97 each. Member price. Visit safeway or albertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[VRBO Announcer]

You know what they say. Early bird gets the ultimate vacation home. Book early and save over $120 with VRBO because early gets you closer to the action, whether it's waves lapping at the shore or snoozing in a hammock that overlooks. Well, whatever you want it to so you can all enjoy the payoff come summer with Burpo's early booking deals. Rise and shine. Average savings $141. Select homes only this week with digital

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

coupons At Safeway and Albertsons, get beef rib roast for $7.97 per pound. Member price. Minimum purchase of $50 or more in a single transaction. Exclusions apply. See store for details and Broccoli, cauliflower or russet potatoes are 97 cents per pound. Member price limit 6 pounds plus selected sizes and varieties of Lucerne butter cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese are 197 each member price. Visit Safeway or Albertsons dot com for more deals and ways to save.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Before we continue with the exciting story. Dead Man's Hand. Here is a word from your announcer, Sa.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Sam.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Now back to hopalong cassidy. Happy and California have been in a lot of strange places at some very odd hours. At the moment, they are under a poker table in the Indian Spring bar room. It's 4 o' clock in the morning and they are just sitting and thinking, trying to make sense out of the discovery that the shooting of Luke Berry was staged and undoubtedly for Sally Kirby's benefit. This piece of wadding is what I found under the table, California. A piece of warding from a blank cartridge. Blank cartridges. What do you know about that, Hoppy? Doc Sheldon knew Mrs. Kirby. Take him up to the mine. If she thought Luke was out of the way. Quiet. It's the dead man and Doc. Yeah, Luke Barry. Just about as dead as I thought. You better saddle up now. Rattle for that bluff over Whitewater Pass. Be a long wait. We can't afford to be spotted. What we plan still murder, you know. Best protection you got is staying dead. Hey, Gun. I hate to miss my funeral in the morning. I wonder how the plans. What about Kirby? We ought to hit the path on the way down about three in the afternoon. Mrs. Kirby will be first, then Kirby. Remember that number two is Kirby. I'll bring up the rear after the fact. Mules. You won't be able to tell who's who at that distance. So draw your bead on number two and don't miss. I didn't miss before, did I? He talked after you left him. I didn't like that. Yeah. Don't worry. Kirby won't talk. And remember, I gotta get out of this clean. Everything depends on that. When the boss files for Kirby's clean, I'll see you in six weeks in Santa Fe. All right. Remember, I want you on your way to Whitewater Pass before Senate. Understand? Supposedly that's the reason why. Them dirty double Carson scopes. Let's scrape from hopping. Not so fast, California. But hopefully they'll get Kirby as he comes down that trail. If we grab these two right now, the boss they mentioned in Santa Fe will send somebody else after. Kit. The only way to settle this right is to find out who's behind it all. So we'll just have to play along. Well, let's take in my instincts, but dog gone hobby. You always seem to know better. Stink gets downright monotonous. You trying to flatter me? Come on. It's almost daybreak and we gotta hurry up. Spruce up a bit, huh? Well, don't folks always dress up to go to a funeral? Funeral? Puppy, you mean? Yes, sir. Luke Mar's last rite. And I have a hunch we're going to find it mighty interesting. And being there's no preacher in Indian Spring, I just thought that I'd get up and take charge here. Now, as you know, we're sending Luke Barry to his reward. And at a time like this, we're supposed to say something nice about the deceased. Now, being the deceased is Luke Barry, that regulation puts me at a whopping handicap. Harpy Winternation. Take it easy. I'll tell you when. Anyone present got anything nice to say about Luke? Now, that being the case, sermon's over. Let him down easy, boys. Just a minute. What's the matter, mister? Let's not be too hasty putting old Luke away. I'm one of his best friends, and I'd like to see the body. I'm sorry, mister. She's nailed down to stay. Rip her up. I want to see him. You get back down. You heard what I said. Take the lid off of that topping. Well, you'll get tough with me. Wouldn't. And it isn't customary for the part to pull a gun on the chief mourner. California. Yes? Take the lid off. Right. Hoppy. One of the boards is crashed. Listen. Stop it, will you? I'd shut up if I were you. Here she comes. There. Who's in it? I don't know. Never seen him. Good Lord. Why, it's. It's Sheriff Underwood.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, my goodness.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Just a minute, folks. Just a minute. I know I'm a stranger to all of you, but I'd like to say something. Well, speak up, mister. Yeah, what do you got to offer there? Since I rode into this town yesterday, I've seen nothing but fear. All of you are shaking in your boots. Now, you're only as strong as you want to be. You want to lie down and keep taking it, there's plenty of rats who will keep walking on you. It's up to you. How much longer are you going to take it? Well, what have you got to offer? Okay, mister. All right. You got a jail in town. I saw it. Put the parson here inside it, and I'll have another one for you by nightfall. Come on, California. We got a job to do, and do fast. Happy, if we don't get ourselves in the darndest places. Here we are making our own trail up the mountainside with a wind whistling through our whiskers. Ah, isn't that Even enough food to keep my ribs warm. I'll buy you a nice big steak just as soon as we get back to Indian Spring. No one look. Barry's up in them peaks above us. I ain't too certain of ever getting back. You aren't concerned? No. Just scared. I think we better split up here. You know what you're to do, don't you? I gotta do some mighty hard riding to reach the party before they get the Whitewater task.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

We were so afraid that you might get snowed in. Kit.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

It's been a long week up there, Sally. Seems good to be headed down this trail. Nothing to be afraid of now, kids. Luke Barry is dead.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, is that someone coming up? Well, it's Mr. Chastity.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Hello there.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Hop along.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Say, what are you doing here, Topper needed a little exercise. How are you, kid? Oh, golly, it's good to see you, Hoppy. Hey, wait till you hear about my gold strike.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

We've had a fine bit, Mr. Cassidy. Doc Sheldon's been keeping a sharp lookout. Oh, have you two met? Mr. Cassidy's an old friend of Kit's, Doc.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

No, we haven't met. Howdy, Doc. Guess maybe I'll ride back to the end of the line and join you. If you don't mind, maybe I can help you watch for any danger. Mrs. Kirby, when we round this next bend, we'll be in Whitewater Pass. Can you make your horse stumble and not hurt yourself?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

I don't understand.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Please don't ask questions. Just do as I say.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

All right.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

I'll go back there behind the dock and we'll be on our way. All right. Ghetto. Well, I don't know what your idea is in coming up to meet us, Cassidy. I can tell you that I'm here to protect Chip. Then we have a lot in common, Doc. Well, just don't trust me.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Sally. Sally, are you all right?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Yes, Kit.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

My horse goes stumble.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

What's the matter up there? Sally, if your horse is tired, why don't you come back here with me and let Kit lead the way?

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

All right, Mr. Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

What's the matter? A good idea. There. Now, we'll ride through white water path this way. Kit first, Doc second. Sally third, and I'll bring up the rear. All right, let's get going. But, Cassidy, I don't think we should ride this way. Kit's out front. He exposed everything. I'll change places with him. I wouldn't if I. You, Doc. I have my gun handy in case of any emergency. Cassidy, I. I can't Ride here. I'm sick, I tell you. Mountain sickness. And there's nothing like a good ride to cure mountain sickness, Doc. Especially a number two spot. Wouldn't be surprised if you never got sick again after today, Poppy. That was a shock. What do you know? Someone's out shooting cows.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

What can we do?

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Leave this to me, Sally. Keep your places in line. Who's your boss in Santa Fe, Doc? There's no one. He's running the whole play up here, isn't he? After Kit's mine. Bound to get it, no matter who he has to kill first. I tell you, I don't know, Cassidy. I listen. Luke Barry's up there. He. He's shooting at me, but because I'm riding second. He sure you put him there. And he's going to keep shooting till you talk.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Luke Barry? But I thought he was dead.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Too bad, Doc. That was a good hat. Look at her float down the gorge. Stop him. I'll talk, Anthony. I'll talk. Luke. Stop. Stop shooting at me.

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Help is always ready before, during and after your stay. We've planned for the plot twists, so support is always available because a great trip starts with peace of mind. At vrbo, we understand that even the best of plans sometimes need a little support. So we plan for the plot twists. Every booking is automatically backed by our VRBO Care guarantee, giving you confidence from the very start. Whenever you need help, it's ready before your stay, through the moments in between, between and after your trip. Because a great trip starts with peace of mind. And maybe a good playlist. But we've got the peace of mind part covered.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Now a word from your announcer,

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Sam.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy. I'll take charge of the prisoners for a while, Hoppy. You won't have any trouble with the doc. Yeah, and it's surprising how a cap in the head will tame a fellow like Barry here. So you were in on this, too? California.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

It all came so suddenly, I don't even know what happened.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

Well, you see, kids, California. And I knew that Luke would be up on that peak above Whitewater Pass. So when I rode up the trail to meet you, California kind of sneaked up on Luke and took over the job. Like taking candy from a baby. Then it wasn't Luke shooting at us at all. It was. That's right, it was California. But the doc thought it was Luke. And he had instructed Luke to kill whoever was in number two position. Why, that's where I had been riding.

[Supporting Character (e.g., Doc Sheldon or Sally Kirby)]

Oh, kid.

[Hopalong Cassidy (Narrator/Lead Character)]

And with a bullets whizzing past in the dock, you sang like a bird. And now we know about the whole crooked mining outfit in Santa Fe. Good old Doc. He just needed a little persuasion. That's right. Hey, by the way, there's something I forgot to compliment you on. California? Yes, I'm blushing already. What is it? That shooting in Whitewater Pass. Brother, when you shoot the miss, you sure don't leave much room to spare. Miss? Did you tell me to miss him? Lordy, Hoppy, I was trying all the time to hit him. Goodbye. From harbor on Cassidy and Calhoy, another job is done and they're heading back to the Bar 20. But they'd be mighty pleased if you join them again next week for another story of action and excitement up along Cassidy, starring William Boyd, is transcribed and produced in the west by Walter White, Jr. Dead man's hand was written by Harold Swanson. All stories are based upon the characters created by Clarence C. Mulford. This is a Commodore production. SA.

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