Downriver Adventure | Challenge of the Yukon (01-24-52)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: Downriver Adventure | Challenge of the Yukon (01-24-52)
Release Date: June 25, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines

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Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines presents a thrilling adventure titled "Downriver Adventure | Challenge of the Yukon." The episode is a digitally restored rendition of a classic Western radio drama, accentuating rich audio enhancements that bring the Wild West to life with vivid soundscapes and dynamic performances.

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Plot Overview

The story unfolds in the rugged wilderness of the Yukon during the gold rush era. The protagonist, Pete Chance, grapples with personal loss and family responsibilities following the death of his wife. To support his motherless daughter, Pammy, Pete enlists the help of his older sister, Flora. Their quiet life in the small town of Littleport is disrupted by a bank robbery orchestrated by the notorious outlaws, Sam Raybatt and Slim Carson.

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Key Characters

• Pete Chance: A determined man burdened by familial responsibilities, striving to provide for his daughter.
• Flora: Pete's strong-willed sister who manages the household and supports Pete and Pammy.
• Pammy: Pete's young daughter, whose innocent actions inadvertently aid in solving the robbery.
• Constable Redmond: A dedicated lawman injured during the bank heist, striving to apprehend the criminals.
• Sergeant Preston: The steadfast Yukon Mounted Police officer, accompanied by his loyal dog, Yukon King.
• Sam Raybatt & Slim Carson: The antagonistic bank robbers with criminal records, intent on escaping with stolen gold.

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Detailed Episode Summary

[00:00 - 03:00]
The episode opens with vivid narration set against the backdrop of the wild northwest, introducing the Yukon Mounted Police and the ongoing gold rush. A comedic advertisement for Quaker Puffed Wheat and Puffed Rice seamlessly integrates into the scene, blending product promotion with storytelling.

[03:01 - 07:18]
Pete Chance and Flora prepare to set sail downriver in their sturdy scow in search of Pammy, who has gone missing after a routine visit to the trading post. Constable Redmond joins Pete, hinting at underlying tensions and Pete’s occasional loss of temper. As they depart, Slim Carson and Sam Raybatt execute a bank robbery in Littleport, injuring Constable Redmond.

[07:19 - 12:00]
Sam and Slim make their escape, but Dog Yukon King aids Sergeant Preston in tracking the outlaws. Flora and Pete retrieve Pammy, who unknowingly helps by distributing notes in medicine bottles, which becomes pivotal for tracking the criminals. The tension escalates as Pete ensures the safety of his family while Constable Redmond limps after the robbers.

[12:01 - 19:25]
A humorous interlude features Pete Chance interacting with a snowman, continuing the blend of storytelling and advertisement. The pursuit intensifies with Sergeant Preston and Yukon King closing in on Sam and Slim. Pammy’s intuition about the robbers' identities adds a layer of suspense as she interacts with the suspects, leading to their eventual capture.

[19:26 - 24:00]
As the outlaws attempt to deceive Pete and his family, Pammy's keen observations and Flora's support prove instrumental in unmasking Sam Raybatt. A dramatic confrontation ensues, resulting in the apprehension of the criminals. Sergeant Preston, alongside Constable Redmond, secures the town and ensures the safety of Pete’s family.

[24:01 - 27:00]
With the robbers in custody, the episode concludes with reflections on the day's events. Pete expresses relief that the stolen gold remains untouched, and Sergeant Preston commends the teamwork that led to the successful resolution. Flora and Pammy celebrate their heroes, setting the stage for future adventures.

[27:01 - 31:39]
A teaser for the next adventure hints at a new threat in the Yukon—a poisoner targeting wild animals, foreshadowing Sergeant Preston's continued battle against lawlessness. The episode wraps up with Andrew Rines encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast through social media and subscriptions.

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Notable Quotes

• Andrew Rines [00:15]: "Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free."

• Pete Chance [03:01]: "Laurie, when we reach the States, I'll buy your whole drugstore. But between now and then you'll not need those medicines, pills and powders."

• Sam Raybatt [05:18]: "Ho. Ho."

• Flora [04:14]: "All the comforts of home may be it, but you're foolish to travel alone. Why not wait a week or so? Freighters will be making the trip downriver, and if you join them, you'll have the safety of numbers."

• Sergeant Preston [13:46]: "Hello, Redmond. Eddie King. Quiet, boy."

• Pete Chance [20:16]: "Hey, he knows who to look for."

• Sergeant Preston [24:24]: "Come aboard, Constable. We'll handcuff these two crooks, then free the prisoners."

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Audio and Production Quality

The digitally restored audio elevates the traditional radio drama experience, offering clarity and depth that surpasses vintage recordings. The rich sound effects—from the creak of the scow's doors to the thundering hooves of pursuing horses—immerse listeners in the Yukon’s untamed landscape. Legendary radio actors deliver compelling performances, bringing authenticity and excitement to each character.

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Conclusion

"Downriver Adventure | Challenge of the Yukon" is a captivating episode that masterfully blends action, drama, and character development. Through Pete Chance's resilience, Flora's strength, and Sergeant Preston's unwavering dedication, the story highlights themes of family, justice, and community. The meticulous digital restoration ensures that these timeless tales continue to enchant both new listeners and longtime fans of the Old West radio dramas.

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Looking Ahead

The episode concludes with a teaser for the next adventure, promising another exhilarating storyline featuring Sergeant Preston. Listeners are encouraged to stay tuned for more engaging tales from the Wild West, enhanced by superior audio quality and immersive storytelling.

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For additional content, exclusive access, and to support the podcast, listeners are invited to join as ranch hands through the podcast's official channels.

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End of Summary

Transcript

[Narrator]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Now. As gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild northwest, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. The breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the northwest. Blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike. In the wild race for riches back to the days of the gold rush with Quaker Puff Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puff Rice. It's nice. And when you hear that shootin you're dern tootin that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns and say what a taste treat you have every morning when there's Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat on the table top Em with milk or thick yellow cream and chilled fruit or sliced bananas Mmm mmm. Every crisp luscious bite and has that swell nut like flavor that hits the spot for the breakfast treat you'll never want to skip enjoy delicious Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat. After the death of his wife, Pete Chance had appealed to his older sister Flora to become his housekeeper and help him raise his motherless young daughter. For 18 years, Flora had looked after him and Pammy. But in spite of his indebtedness to her, Pete occasionally lost his temper with the tall, vigorous woman. As he watched her carry a bulging carpet bag of bottled remedies aboard his sturdy scowl, Pete's lips compressed in a thin line of irritated disapproval.

[Pete Chance]

Laurie, when we reach the States, I'll buy your whole drugstore. But between now and then you'll not need those medicines, pills and powders.

[Constable Redmond]

A lot of things can happen on a boat trip, Pete. Seasickness for once.

[Pete Chance]

Sea sickness. Now listen, if you think I can't handle a boat.

[Constable Redmond]

What's eating you? Your nerves are on edge. I got some medicine that I.

[Pete Chance]

There's not a thing wrong with me that getting underway won't cure. Hi there, Pete. Hello, Constable Redmond.

[Flora]

Howdy, Ms. Flora.

[Constable Redmond]

Good morning, Constable.

[Flora]

I guess you folks are all set to shove off now that the. The ice Is broken.

[Pete Chance]

Well, I waited all week for the ice to melt. Now I'm waiting for Pammy.

[Sam Raybatt]

Where is she?

[Pete Chance]

You know how women are. Last minute shoppers, every one of them. Come aboard, customer.

[Flora]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

The constable stepped from the dock to the plank that ran along the sides of the crude but sturdy scow. He walked along the plank and nodded approvingly. The flat bottom boat was well built. It was 42ft long and 12ft wide with steering oars at the bow and stern. Each end was squared, but the sides were sheared up. A mast about 20ft high was rigged with a large square sail. And in the center of the scow was a deck house with a small sheet iron stove for cooking.

[Flora]

All the comforts of home may be it, but you're foolish to travel alone. Why not wait a week or so? Freighters will be making the trip downriver, and if you join them, you'll have the safety of numbers.

[Pete Chance]

I'm well armed.

[Flora]

Who will help you handle the scow?

[Pete Chance]

I'll handle her myself.

[Flora]

You'll need an experienced riverman, Pete. You'll travel through a lot of dangerous waters.

[Pete Chance]

Now look here.

[Constable Redmond]

Now, maybe the constable's right.

[Pete Chance]

I've handled scows in all kinds of waters. We'll get through all right if we ever get started.

[Narrator]

If?

[Pete Chance]

Roy, you say? Here.

[Constable Redmond]

Where are you going?

[Pete Chance]

Look for Pammy. I'll be back as soon as I find her. You want to come along, Constable?

[Flora]

Sure thing.

[Narrator]

As Constable Redmond and Pete Chance climbed to the dock and headed toward the center of the small town of Littleport, two riders emerged from the trees behind the bank building. One of the men was short and thin. His partner was tall and heavy set, though their features had not appeared on handbills. Both men had police records. They were Slim Carson and Sam Rabat. It was Sam who signaled a Ho, ho.

[Sam Raybatt]

Ho. Ho.

[Pete Chance]

Ho.

[Sam Raybatt]

Sammy, you think anyone spotted us? I told you we wouldn't be seen if we rode through the hills instead of going through town. Now get over close to the building. Tie a bandana over your face. Right. Hold your fire while we're in the bank so no one outside will know that there's a holdup going on.

[Narrator]

Do you savvy?

[Sam Raybatt]

Yeah. When we're ready to leave the bank, we'll come out this way and we'll come out shooting. That'll keep the folks off the street and we'll be able to make a getaway.

[Narrator]

All right.

[Sam Raybatt]

You ready? Yeah. Let's go.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, Pete Chance and the constable had reached the center of town.

[Flora]

The trading Post is next to the bank, Pete. We'll probably find her there.

[Pete Chance]

Hey, Hoochoo.

[Flora]

There she is. Coming from the trading.

[Pete Chance]

There she is. Pammy.

[Narrator]

Dad.

[Pammy]

Constable Redmond.

[Flora]

Hello, Pam.

[Pete Chance]

About time we found you. What's in the packaging?

[Pammy]

A few supplies that Aunt Laura wanted. Anna bought a newspaper and some pens.

[Pete Chance]

We're overloaded with supplies. Now, as for newspaper and pencils.

[Pammy]

Oh, they'll not take up much room.

[Flora]

Dad, those shots came from.

[Pete Chance]

Must be a hold up. Stay back.

[Sam Raybatt]

You too.

[Pete Chance]

I have my shits done. I'm coming with you.

[Narrator]

As Constable Redmond rushed through the front door of the bank, Slim Carson, who was just inside the rear door, saw him coming. Slim fired. The impact of a bullet in his gun arm sent the policeman staggering back.

[Pete Chance]

Redmond hit me in the arm. Take it easy. I'll help you.

[Narrator]

Get after the crook.

[Flora]

They had horses out back.

[Pete Chance]

You better stay inside till. Stop shooting.

[Pammy]

Dad. Dad, are you all right?

[Pete Chance]

I'm all right, Pam, but the constable's hit.

[Flora]

Constable, you hit, dad, it's my gun arm. Jim. The crook was standing at the back door as I came in.

[Pete Chance]

The front partner was already outside.

[Flora]

Were there two of them?

[Pete Chance]

That's right. They both had their faces covered. But I heard the short, thin fellow who shot you call his partner.

[Flora]

Eh?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Pete Chance]

Sam was tall and heavyset. He was the one giving the orders.

[Flora]

Might be Sam Raybatt.

[Pammy]

I've heard of him.

[Pete Chance]

So have I.

[Flora]

He's dangerous. Plenty dangerous.

[Pete Chance]

And we're getting out of here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on.

[Pammy]

All right, dad.

[Flora]

This bears out what I told you, Pete. It'd be risky for you to travel alone.

[Pete Chance]

If crooks like Sam Raybatt can come into town and rub the bank right under the nose of the law, we'll be a whole lot safer on the river.

[Narrator]

Sam Raybatt and Slim Carson rode at breakneck speed through the hills north of Little Pole. Approaching the stream, they slowed their horses to a gradual halt and permitted the animals to drink the cool, clear water.

[Sam Raybatt]

Hey, we. We got away all right, Sam. The best part of the getaway is that we traveled over the ground too hard to show tracks. At least we're safe this far. We'll be safe all the way. I don't know, Sam. What do you mean? I plugged him on as I was leaving the bank. Did you kill him? I hit him. Hey, that's bad. I had no choice. If I hadn't stopped him, he'd have had us before we got out of town. If you killed him, we'll hang. We better get out of the Yukon, what about my share of the loot? We'll divvy it up. Now, carry as much as you can in your money belt. From here on, we'll travel in this stream. This stream empties into the river. I know it. That's where we're going.

[Narrator]

The two thieves divided the loot, then guided their horses into the rocky stream bed. As the animals picked their way carefully through the shallow water, Sergeant Preston and Yukon King reached the town of Littleport. The policeman was mounted on a black stallion, and as he drew rein and dismounted in front of the trading post, banker Thompson hurried toward him, leading the mountie into the bank. Thompson told of the robbery that had occurred three hours earlier.

[Pete Chance]

The constable, the cashier and the guard were wounded.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston, how seriously were they hurt?

[Pete Chance]

The cashier and the guard were both hit in the shoulder. They'll stay at the doc's house for a few days while he looks after them.

[Sergeant Preston]

What about constable Redmond?

[Pete Chance]

His right arm will be no good for a couple of weeks.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where is he?

[Pete Chance]

As soon as he was able to mount a horse, he went after the crooks. But I don't know how long he'll be able to stay in the saddle.

[Sergeant Preston]

You say the thieves went out the back way?

[Pete Chance]

That's right. Their horses were waiting for him.

[Sergeant Preston]

In that event, King may be able to pick up a scent.

[Pete Chance]

I could see their track, sergeant Preston, so I know King will have no trouble getting the scent. I'll show you where their horses were standing.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right. Come on, King. Get the scent, King. They want to follow us. Understand, fella?

[Pete Chance]

Has he got a sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

I think so, Thompson. I'll get my horse and go after them.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston returned to the hitch rack in front of the trading post. Picking up the reins, he led his horse to the rear of the bank.

[Sergeant Preston]

You want to follow those two men, King? Steady, Blacky. Lead the way, boy.

[Sam Raybatt]

Get up, blankie. Come on.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston had traveled only a short distance when he realized that constable Redmond would have difficulty finding the men who had wounded him. Though King was leading his master into the hills, there were no tracks on the rocky, hard, packed ground to betray the trail of the bank robbers. Meanwhile, constable Redmond had dismounted. He was studying the ground around him with scrupulous care. Since losing the tracks of the men he sought, he his progress had been discouragingly slow. His wounded arm ached with a soreness that seemed to numb his brain. He was hot and tired, but he persisted in his search. He was convinced that the bank robbers were in the hills heading north. Redmond was moving ahead slowly when he heard distant hoofbeats.

[Flora]

There they are. I was right about them being in the hills.

[Pete Chance]

Easy. Easy, boy.

[Flora]

Now we can travel, boy. Straight up the hill. We'll head them off. All right, fella, get up. Come on up, boy.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Flora]

Oh, boy.

[Pete Chance]

Oh.

[Flora]

There.

[Narrator]

As Constable Redmond reached the top of the hill, he halted his horse and drew his service revolver. Then he waited at the side of the trail for the rider to come into view. We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Say, fellas and girls, if you like presents, here's a present you can give your appetite every morning. A heaping bowl full of Quaker puffed wheat or Quaker puffed rice covered with milk or cream and fruit. You know, these ready to serve breakfast cereals are. Oh, excuse me a minute while I go to the door. Yes. What? A ghost.

[Pete Chance]

Oh, no, I'm not a ghost.

[Narrator]

I must be seeing things.

[Pete Chance]

Not at all. I'm a snowman.

[Narrator]

A snowman? Why, so you are. What on earth are you doing here?

[Pete Chance]

Oh, I get tired of just standing around doing nothing. Couldn't I help you sell Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice?

[Narrator]

You mean you want me to give you a job, Mr. Snowman?

[Pete Chance]

Yep, and I'll do a swell job because I know all about those swell cereals.

[Narrator]

Are you sure?

[Pete Chance]

You bet your life.

[Narrator]

You know that Quaker puff wheat and Quaker puff rice are shot from guns?

[Pete Chance]

I sure do.

[Narrator]

Do you know they're exploded up to eight times normal size, puffed to perfection so they're crisp and tender.

[Pete Chance]

They just melt in your mouth?

[Narrator]

I guess you do know what you're talking about.

[Pete Chance]

And they're full of bang up nut like flavor, too.

[Narrator]

But say, do you know that Quaker puff wheat and Quaker puff rice are nourishing? That they furnish added food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron for sure.

[Pete Chance]

Everyone knows that.

[Narrator]

Well, Mr. Snowman, if you're going to be one of our salesmen, remember always to say, fellas and girls, be sure to look for the big red and blue package with the smiling picture of the Quaker man on the front. Then you'll be sure of getting the original crisp, fresh Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice. Enjoy this delicious treat tomorrow morning. Now, to continue. With his pistol ready for action, Constable Redmond was preparing to face Slim Carson and Sam Raybatt. He wasn't prepared for the sudden appearance of the great dog king who stopped on the trail growling a menacing warning. A moment later, sergeant Preston appeared Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Redmond. Eddie King. Quiet, boy.

[Flora]

Doggone glad to see you. But you're the last man in the world I expected to find riding through these hills. K, old boy, how are you? Oh, I see. Now that I've hosted my gun, you'll say hello. Is that it?

[Narrator]

Whoa.

[Sergeant Preston]

How's your arm, Constable?

[Flora]

It'll be all right in a couple of weeks. Right now, I can't use it. Have you come from Littleport?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Flora]

And you know about the robbery?

[Sergeant Preston]

Thomson told me all about it. He and I were following the bank robbers. And you stopped us?

[Flora]

I lost that trail a couple of hours ago.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gang's following their scent.

[Flora]

Good.

[Sergeant Preston]

Perhaps it'd be better if you went back to town.

[Flora]

Because of my arm? Not in your life, Sergeant. Now that you and King have taken over, I'll tag along. It'll give me a great deal of satisfaction to see those two crooks in handcuffs. Lead the way. I'll follow you.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right. Go ahead, King. Come on, luggage.

[Narrator]

It was several hours later when Sam Raybatt and his partner Slim left the stream they'd been following. The ground underfoot was studded with jagged rock. The two men gave the horses their heads as they made their way downhill to the banks of the big river.

[Sam Raybatt]

Hey, Sam.

[Flora]

What?

[Sam Raybatt]

Stop here and listen. Ho, ho, ho, there. Sounds like someone's building something. Yeah, they're down below on the riverbank. Then we'd better investigate before we bust in on them.

[Narrator]

Good idea. Hit the ground right easy.

[Sam Raybatt]

We'll go the rest of the way on foot.

[Narrator]

The two men approached the river bank cautiously. As the trees ahead thinned, they saw two Indians kneeling on the ground beside a large raft built of logs.

[Sam Raybatt]

Hey, Sam, look. A raft with oars and everything. Just what we need. Yeah. Come on. But be careful. We don't want to make any noise. What are we gonna do? Sneak up behind those Indians. We'll crack them on ahead and then tie them. Then take the raft and be on our way down river.

[Narrator]

The two thieves succeeded in surprising the Indians. They took the raft and headed down river. Carried by the swift current. They traveled in silence for several hours. Rounding a difficult turn in the river, they saw Pete Chance's scow ahead at the side of the boat. Slim turned to his partner and shouted.

[Sam Raybatt]

Hey, Sam, look ahead.

[Narrator]

There's a boat.

[Sam Raybatt]

Look out for your oars.

[Narrator]

Look, Rabbit, you jughead, it's gone.

[Sam Raybatt]

We need it for steering. It's out of reach, I tell you.

[Narrator]

Ah, we'll be swept ashore from the stern of the scow Pam. And her Aunt Flora watched the struggles of the man on the raft. Meanwhile, Sergeant Preston and Constable Redmond had found the two horses the outlaws abandoned. The Indians told the policeman how they'd been struck on the head and tied hand and foot by unknown assailants.

[Flora]

Here are the tracks, Sergeant. See where they shoved the raft into the water?

[Sam Raybatt]

Two crooks not look very far and not no police bateau hidden in cove. Make better time in bateau than raft.

[Flora]

He's right, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

A police bateau is near here.

[Flora]

Yes, it's in the COVID ahead. The Indians keep it in repair and ready for use at any moment.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll get it and head down river. Come on.

[Narrator]

A short time later, after leaving their horses with the Indians, the constable, Sergeant Preston and the Great Dog King were headed down river in the tapering light flat bottom boat that was especially adapted for use on the river. Neither of the Mounties knew that the raft had been smashed on rocks near shore and that Sam and Slim, still clutching their saddlebags, managed to stay afloat by clinging to a log. Standing on a plank the side of his scowl. Pete Chance threw them a rope while Pammy handled the steering oar in the bow and a Durant tried to manage the oar sweep in the stern. Grab a hold of the rope and.

[Pete Chance]

I'll hur your board.

[Constable Redmond]

Do you think it's safe to take them on board?

[Pete Chance]

They're in trouble, aren't they? Unless we take them aboard, they'll drown.

[Constable Redmond]

But the constable said it'd be dangerous. They're strangers.

[Pete Chance]

The constable likewise said I'd need help to handle this cow. And he was right. We'll make better time with a couple extra hands for a crew.

[Sam Raybatt]

You go first.

[Pete Chance]

All right. Give me your hand, stranger. Get you out of that river.

[Sam Raybatt]

Thanks. Thanks a lot.

[Pete Chance]

Yeah, you let me get your hand.

[Sam Raybatt]

Cheating.

[Pete Chance]

Hey, we saw your raft hit the rocks.

[Constable Redmond]

For pity's sake, Pete, come and take over this oar. Pammy and I are worn out trying to handle them.

[Pete Chance]

Sure thing, Floy. You gents sit down and get your bread. My name's Pete Chance. This is my daughter and my sister.

[Sam Raybatt]

Glad to know you folks. My name's Sam Samson. Jim Sampson. My partner's name is Jones.

[Narrator]

Howdy, Pammy. Sharp ears had caught Sam Raybatt's hesitation at the name Sam and his quick recovery as he smoothly introduced himself and his partner. In spite of her suspicions, she smiled to herself when her aunt spoke to the two newcomers.

[Constable Redmond]

You two are likely to catch your death a cold after being in the river. But I Got some medicine in my carpet bag.

[Pete Chance]

You can't do without that terrible tasting stuff.

[Constable Redmond]

Laura, I was only trying to be helpful.

[Sam Raybatt]

You need any help handling this scowl, Mr.

[Narrator]

Chance?

[Pete Chance]

Yes, yes, sure do.

[Sam Raybatt]

Well, then, I'll give you a hand. My partner's sort of worn out after.

[Pete Chance]

Our swim and let him sit in the deck house with the ladies and rest a while.

[Pammy]

Do you have any extra clothing in your saddle bag, Mr. Jones?

[Sam Raybatt]

Clothing? No. No, I haven't.

[Pammy]

Well, I'll empty the saddle bag for you. That way your things will dry.

[Sam Raybatt]

Leave that saddle bag alone.

[Constable Redmond]

My sakes, there's no need to bite Pam's head off.

[Sam Raybatt]

I'm. I'm sorry, ma' am.

[Pammy]

Well, that's all right. Had you built the raft yourself?

[Sam Raybatt]

No, a couple of engines built it. We. We swapped our horses for it.

[Pammy]

That's too bad. Looks like the Indians got the best of the bargain.

[Sam Raybatt]

You're right about that. We'd be better off if we stayed in the saddle. But Sam said we'd be better.

[Pammy]

What did you say?

[Sam Raybatt]

I said Sam, my partner, working the steering oar with your dad. He's Sam. Oh, yeah. Well, what I mean is, Mr. Sampson. That's his name.

[Pammy]

You said Sam.

[Sam Raybatt]

Well, I call him Sam for short.

[Narrator]

The girl had been in the bank when the two robbers were described. She knew that the short, thin man had shot the constable, that his tall, heavyset partner was named Sam. The descriptions fitted the newcomer.

[Constable Redmond]

Oh, my sakes, Pammy. What's wrong, child? You look like you're going to faint.

[Pammy]

I'm all right, Aunt Flora.

[Constable Redmond]

I'll get some smelling salt. Maybe it's seasickness.

[Pammy]

No, no, I'll be all right. If you'll excuse me, Mr. Jones, I think I'll sit back in the stirrup.

[Sam Raybatt]

A sure thing.

[Pete Chance]

Here.

[Constable Redmond]

Just reach back into my carpet bag if you want the smelling sauce, dear. Spirits of ammonia's there, too.

[Pete Chance]

Constable was hit just as he went through the door.

[Narrator]

I see.

[Sam Raybatt]

Was the constable killed?

[Narrator]

Nope.

[Pete Chance]

The bullet hit him in his gun arm. I reckon he's out looking for the bank robbers now.

[Sam Raybatt]

Well, if their faces were covered, he'll have a hard time finding him.

[Pete Chance]

Hey, he knows who to look for.

[Sergeant Preston]

He does.

[Pete Chance]

Yet the short, skinny one called his partner Sam the constable. Figures he's Sam Raybatt, the outlaw.

[Sam Raybatt]

Hey, Sam. Lady fixed me some grub. You want some?

[Narrator]

Shut up.

[Sam Raybatt]

All right, if you're not hungry.

[Pete Chance]

What did he call you?

[Sam Raybatt]

Oh, he called me Sam. You see, my name's Samson and, well, he calls me Sam for short. Yeah, well, what are you looking at?

[Pete Chance]

You. The man who shot the constable was short and skinny, just like your partner. You're tall and heavyset like Sam Raybatt. That gun.

[Sam Raybatt]

Yeah, this gun says you're right, but you made a mistake.

[Pete Chance]

Read a minute, Sam.

[Sam Raybatt]

What's the idea of the gun? Hold your gun on the women while I take care of this critter. Sure thing.

[Narrator]

They're gonna rob her.

[Constable Redmond]

They're robbers, all right.

[Pammy]

I noticed. Soon as the man named Jones called his partner, saying.

[Sam Raybatt]

Tie the hands and feet, Slim. Later I'll throw you over for when you finish tying him. Slim, put ropes on this gent here. Throw them all in the river.

[Narrator]

No.

[Sam Raybatt]

I just found out the Mountie you shot still alive. And as long as I'm in charge, there'll be no murders. Now hurry up and get them tied.

[Narrator]

Traveling in the bateau, Sergeant Preston and Constable Redmond had sighted the wreckage of the raft and had moved close to shore to inspect the debris.

[Flora]

Looks like the river's taking care of those crooks, Sergeant. They must have gone down.

[Sergeant Preston]

Perhaps not.

[Flora]

You think they made it to shore?

[Sergeant Preston]

They might have.

[Flora]

If we're going to look for them, we'd better do it now. It'll soon be dark.

[Sergeant Preston]

Which side of the river do you want to search?

[Flora]

They might be on either side.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, they might have stayed afloat by clinging to a log.

[Flora]

Hey, you're steering to the right.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Flora]

Why?

[Sergeant Preston]

I see something caught in the Nettie near those rocks.

[Flora]

What is it?

[Narrator]

A bottle.

[Sergeant Preston]

Medicine bottle. Must have been swept out of the current towards shore.

[Flora]

I suppose someone lost it.

[Sergeant Preston]

A piece of newspaper inside of it. Someone emptied the bottle, put the newspaper inside and uncorked it.

[Flora]

Let's see the paper.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll smash the bottle with my gun. It'll be a lot easier than trying to work the paper through the narrow opening.

[Flora]

Seems to me someone went to a great deal of trouble to preserve a newspaper clipping.

[Sergeant Preston]

It's more than a clipping, Constable. See here. Written on a piece of newspaper.

[Flora]

What does it say?

[Narrator]

Help.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sign. Pam Chance.

[Flora]

Pam?

[Sergeant Preston]

You know her?

[Flora]

Yes. She and her father and her aunt left town in a scow right after the bank robbery.

[Sergeant Preston]

Scow must be ahead of us.

[Flora]

Let's hope we reach it before dark.

[Sergeant Preston]

It may be better if we reach it after dark.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston resumed his rowing. The two policemen sighted the running lights of the scow shortly after dark.

[Sergeant Preston]

What is it, then?

[Flora]

Tied up ashore for the night.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's a lantern lit in the deck house.

[Flora]

I see two men on the far side. I Was aboard Pete's scout this morning, Sergeant. I'd recognize it anywhere.

[Sergeant Preston]

And that's it?

[Flora]

Yes, but I don't see the ladies or Pete.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let's hope they're still alive.

[Flora]

Shall we board her, sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, if we're able to come alongside without being seen.

[Flora]

Lucky there's no moon.

[Narrator]

Handling the small boat with practice skill, the sergeant drew alongside of the scow without being noticed. Fastening a rope to the planking, he swung himself to the deck. A moment later, the great dog King leaped to his side. Making no more noise than shadows, they moved along. Next to the narrow railing, Preston saw three figures on the floor of the deck house. They were bound and gagged.

[Sam Raybatt]

What's going on back there? Probably feet turning it loose. Well, you better go back and make sure his ropes are tight. Make sure they are.

[Narrator]

As Slim left the bow to go to the deck house, Sergeant Preston shouted, stand where you are. You're covered. In the lantern light coming from the deck house, Slim saw the red tunic, striped trousers and polished boots. Throwing caution to the winds, Slim grabbed for his gun. King, charge. Constable Redmond opened fire from the bateau and Preston shouted, hold your fire, constable. The force of King's charge threw Slim to the deck, where he lay motionless. The in King stood over him. Preston hadn't taken his eyes from the man in the bow of the boat. He knew Sam would try to take advantage of the momentary confusion. And he was right. Sam's right hand moved like a striking snake as his gun cleared leather. Preston's bullet smashed the weapon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come aboard, Constable. We'll handcuff these two crooks, then free the prisoners.

[Narrator]

A short time later, Pete, his sister and daughter were freed. They told the policeman what had happened, and Pammy explained the bottled notes.

[Pammy]

You see, I suspected they were crooks, but I didn't know what to do about it. So when I was alone in the rear of the scow, I emptied Aunt Flora's medicine bottles and stuffed them with a note. I threw at least a dozen bottles overboard.

[Flora]

We found one, Pammy, and as soon as we read your note, we knew where to look for Sam and his partner.

[Pete Chance]

That's the first time your dispensary served a good purpose, Flora.

[Constable Redmond]

Aren't you glad I brought it along?

[Pete Chance]

Yes, you sure am. And I'm glad those two crooks didn't know we were carrying gold.

[Sergeant Preston]

They had plenty of stolen golden cash without taking yours, Pete.

[Pete Chance]

Then you found the bank cash?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, saddlebags and money belts.

[Sam Raybatt]

You'd have never found it if Sam hadn't talked I talked because when the judge finds out that you shot a Mountie, things are going to go hard with you, Slim. I figured by turning state's evidence we'd get a lighter sentence.

[Sergeant Preston]

You may have outsmarted yourself, Constable.

[Pammy]

How's your arm?

[Narrator]

Fine.

[Pammy]

Oh, you certainly had a busy day. Why don't you come over here, Constable, and I'll make you some tea.

[Flora]

Of course.

[Constable Redmond]

Oh, the constable and Pammy make a fine looking couple, don't they, Pete?

[Narrator]

I wish I were young again.

[Constable Redmond]

Goodness knows the setting's romantic enough. Don't you think so, Sergeant Preston?

[Sergeant Preston]

I think the setting's peaceful, Ms. Flora. Now that this case is closed.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Say, at breakfast at your house. Does mother have to be a sort of short order expert like this? Say, can't I have some breakfast cereal that isn't so terribly sweet? Gee, mom, I'd like my breakfast cereal real sweet this morning. Well, I don't want mine sweet at all. Now the way to solve that problem is to serve everybody delicious Quaker puffed rice or Quaker puffed wheat. Yes, everybody agrees there's nothing like the toasty nut like flavor of the good natural grain. Everybody likes the sun ripened natural flavor that old Mother Nature puts into it. It's never coated with factory sweetening. And that's the beauty of Quaker pot wheat and Quaker popped. Right, your whole family. Dad, mom, the youngsters can sweeten them with sugar or use no sugar at all, whichever way suits their own special taste. And don't forget there's added food values of restored natural grain, amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron in every spoonful your family eats. So be sure that you have on your breakfast table tomorrow morning for everybody to reach for a package of delicious Quaker puffed rice and Quaker puffed wheat for a delightful treat everybody likes to eat. They come only in the big red and blue package with a sealed inner lining that keeps them crisp as can be. And now, here is Sergeant Preston reporting for duty, Inspector.

[Pete Chance]

Sergeant, there's a madman or a heartless criminal on the loose in the territory. He's a poisoner and we must get him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Poisoner, sir?

[Pete Chance]

Yes.

[Flora]

Poisoning wild animals and making no effort to trap them.

[Pete Chance]

This thing is allowed to spread. It may mean the death of every wild animal between here and the attic circle.

[Sergeant Preston]

Our people need those animals and their.

[Pete Chance]

Pelts, Inspector, if they're going to survive. Yes, if you're going to survive, Sergeant, you'd better be prepared to face death. Yourself. This man is dangerous.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston starts out to find a heartless man who poisons the helpless animals of the wild, but his trail leads to humans who suffer from the deadly criminal and finally, Preston faces death himself. Be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendall Campbell Enterprises, directed by Fred Flowerday, and supervised by Charles D. Livingston. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at the same time by Quaker Puff Wheat and Quaker Puff Rice, the breakfast cereals shot from guns. Only Quaker Pako 10 has wheat and rice shot from guns. That's Quaker Pack O10, a regular cereal pantry. Six different delicious ready to serve cereals. Ten crisp, fresh individual servings. At breakfast you can take your pick of the pack, have your own separate individual package. Enjoy a different cereal extra fresh every morning. Just remember, only Quaker Pako 10 has all your family cereal favorites. Try Quaker Paco 10. You'll be glad you did. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. So long. Listen tomorrow at this same time to the Green Hornet brought to you by the drink that makes you feel fresh again, Delicious Orange Crush. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Narrator]

Sam.