Gold Legacy | Challenge of the Yukon (05-06-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns — "Gold Legacy | Challenge of the Yukon" (05-06-52)

Podcast Host: Andrew Rhynes
Air Date: January 14, 2026
Original Broadcast: May 6, 1952

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Overview

This episode of Challenge of the Yukon, as restored and presented by the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, transports listeners back to the drama-laden days of the Klondike Gold Rush. Yukon gold, deception, danger, and the code of the Mounties set the stage for this gripping tale. Sergeant Preston, his trusted dog Yukon King, and a cast of desperate prospectors become embroiled in a gold claim adventure with stakes reaching far beyond precious metal—a struggle for justice, loyalty, and family.

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Main Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

The Dying Legacy and a Hidden Map (03:10–06:08)

• Old Jim Sullivan, an ailing, lonely gold miner, bequeaths a treasure map to his only true friend, Jack Barton.
• Jim's last words reveal a partnership with his late brother Jake, and hand over the key to a hidden gold claim in the Yukon, instructing Jack to seek out Pete Hanford in Ogilvy.
• Unbeknownst to them, Lennox, a sneaky crew member, overhears the conversation and immediately plots to intercept the gold.

“You're the only friend I got. No kin of any sort. No one but you to leave my gold mine.”
— Old Jim Sullivan [03:10]

Betrayal and Rising Stakes in Dawson (06:08–10:23)

• Lennox wastes no time assembling a team of unsavory characters—Curly and Baldy—at a Dawson café to scheme for the claim.
• Jack’s plans are complicated when he confronts Lennox and realizes the plot against him; Sergeant Preston and Constable Baker begin to take note of the brewing tension.
• Suspicion arises as Barton describes attempted murder, but proof eludes the authorities.

“You breathe a word of what old Jim told me, I'll kill you.”
— Jack Barton to Lennox [05:37]

Sergeant Preston Joins the Quest (10:23–12:00)

• Sergeant Preston, ever the guardian of justice, offers to accompany Jack on the trek to Ogilvy.
• With Yukon King running ahead, they head into the wilderness, wary of ambush from Lennox and his accomplices.

“Our main purpose is to see that Barton reaches his destination safely.”
— Sergeant Preston [10:44]

Map Secrets and Hanford's Assistance (13:48–15:20)

• At Ogilvy, Pete Hanford recognizes the precious map and cautiously agrees to lead the party to the prospective gold site, warning against high hopes.
• Pete’s daughter Jeannie Hanford is introduced, quickly becoming both a partner and an unwitting pawn in the unfolding scheme.

“Well, Jack, I don't want to raise your hopes too high. We'll have no trouble reaching the place. But we have no assurance we'll find gold when we get there.”
— Pete Hanford [14:36]

The Kidnapping Scheme Unfolds (15:24–17:36)

• Lennox and his cronies, lurking near the Hanford home, exploit the absence of the men to kidnap Jeannie under the ruse of her father’s injury.
• Jeannie’s personal items—a handkerchief, scarf, and ribbon—are taken as proof for use in their future blackmail.

The Discovery and Desperate Decision (18:07–21:14)

• Hanford, Barton, and the Mounties reach the dig site, confirm the presence of gold, and begin to celebrate.
• Their joy is cut short when Baldy approaches with a threatening ultimatum backed by Jeannie’s personal effects as proof of her captivity: sign over the claim or risk Jeannie’s life.
• The devastated Jack and Hanford capitulate, posting the claim in Baldy’s name.

“I'm posting the claim notice. You, Mr. Clark, convinced us that he has a prior right to this land.”
— Jack Barton [20:06]

Revealing the Full Extent of the Blackmail (21:01–22:09)

• Sergeant Preston remains suspicious, pressing Jack and Hanford for the truth behind their seemingly voluntary surrender.
• The men finally confess: “Lennox and Curley are holding Jeannie a prisoner... Baldy promised that she’d be released as soon as he had filed the claim in Ogilvy.” [21:36]

The Rescue: King's Finest Hour (22:12–27:06)

• Preston, with Yukon King, tracks Jeannie’s scent to a hidden cabin.
• King puts on an Oscar-worthy act, feigning injury at the door, luring the kidnappers into a vulnerable position.
• The big dog springs to life at Preston’s signal—immobilizing the captors just as Preston and company burst in for their arrest.

“Among other things, King's quite an actor.”
— Sergeant Preston [27:03]

• Jeannie is saved, the captors arrested, and the rightful claimants can at last file for their hard-won gold.

Epilogue and Character Reflections (26:41–29:04)

• Jack’s selflessness earns Hanford’s gratitude:
  “Genie, I want you to know that Barton here didn't hesitate a minute about giving up his share of the claim when he thought it would save you a life.”
  — Pete Hanford [26:41]

• Jeannie is touched:
  “What's a gold claim compared to a girl like Jeanie?”
  — Jack Barton [26:53]

• King’s deception with the blank note is revealed—one of many clever Mountie stratagems.

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Memorable Moments & Notable Quotes

• Classic Mountie Justice:
  “We must capture them and jail them.”
  — Sergeant Preston [22:01]

• Comedy Bit:
  “That dog, he acted like he was one jump ahead of death until he got inside this place.”
  — Jack Barton [27:03]

• Wisdom for All:
  “These radio dramas... are created by George W. Trendle... Nowhere else can you escape so completely... as to live again in the glorious days of our own American past.”
  — Narrator [28:41]

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Important Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment/Content | |------------|---------------------------------------------------| | 03:10 | Old Jim bequeaths the gold map to Jack | | 05:01 | Lennox is discovered eavesdropping | | 07:45 | Mounties learn of Old Jim’s death | | 10:44 | Plan to protect Barton on the way to Ogilvy | | 14:36 | Hanford’s cautious optimism about the gold claim | | 16:12 | Jeannie deceived and kidnapped | | 18:44 | Gold is found – momentary triumph | | 20:06 | Barton and Hanford sign over their claim under duress | | 21:36 | Truth revealed: Jeannie is a hostage | | 24:40 | King feigns injury outside the kidnappers’ cabin | | 25:45 | The rescue: Mountie and King subdue the kidnappers| | 26:41 | Hanford's gratitude towards Jack Barton | | 27:03 | King's "acting" and comic relief |

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Tone and Style

The episode brims with adventure, suspense, and rich atmosphere. Dialogue is earnest, with a touch of good-natured Western wit. The soundscape—restored for modern audiences—evokes the grit of the gold rush era, while themes of loyalty, courage, and justice echo throughout.

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Conclusion

“Gold Legacy” encapsulates the best of Challenge of the Yukon: a vivid blend of high-stakes adventure, clever detective work, and a moral code as solid as the Mounties’ badge. Thanks to digital restoration and expert curation by Andrew Rhynes, the legend of Sergeant Preston, Yukon King, and frontier justice lives on for a new generation of listeners—richer, deeper, and more immersive than ever.

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Transcript

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[Andrew Rines (Podcast Host)]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. You can find more Western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

The Mutual Broadcasting System presents 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. On King on your huskies.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gold.

[Narrator]

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 Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon.

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[Narrator]

Here's a mutual note for you. Tune to Mutual any evening for Hollywood Star studded entertainment to make your stay at home nights a pleasure you can enjoy light hearted romantic comedy with Woman of the Year starring Bette Davis and George Brent. Thrill to the realistic picture of police operations on crime does not Pay and listen as Orson Welles narrates the stories behind the actual crime mementos in Scotland Yard's Black Museum. Your favorite doctor duet comes your way with Lou Ayers and Lionel Barrymore in the story of Dr. Kildare and their hour long productions of famous Hollywood hits on the MGM musical comedy theater as well as the MGM Theater of the Air. Errol Flynn stars in the modern adventures of Casanova, Anne Southern in the hilarious adventures of Maisie and Mickey Rooney and Louis Stone in the hardy family. Music 2 is yours for the listening with the one and only music hall favorite Gracie Fields. It's fun to stay home evenings when you stay tuned for Mutual's Hollywood Star shows. Hear them all over most of these stat. The steamer Yukon Queen was due to dock at Dawson in three days. One member of the crew knew that he would never again see the Yukon port. His name was Sullivan, but everyone called him Old Jim. Old Jim lay on his bunk, his fingers plucking at the blanket. 25 year old Jack Barton was at his side.

[Jack Barton]

Jack, you've been good to honor old man. I reckon you're the only friend I got. Oh, that's not true, Jim. Everyone's your friend. No, no. I'm alone in the world. No kin of any sort. No one but you to leave my gold mine. Sure, sure thing, Jim. I'm not fooling my brother Jake. He discovered it in the Yukon. Then he returned to the States with a map to get me so as.

[Narrator]

We could share it.

[Jack Barton]

A map? Just listen, Jack. Just listen to me. Well, sure, Jack. Jake died and now it's too late for me to use the map. I want you to have it. Trying to. Trying to get it out of my pocket. Here it is. Take it, Jake. Oh no, no. Take it easy. Take it easy.

[Narrator]

Jack Barton placed an arm beneath the thin shoulders and lifted old Jim to a sitting position. During critical moments, while the dying man fought for air, the cabin door was opened softly. Neither Jack or Old Jim knew it.

[Jack Barton]

I gotta get here tell you how to find the gold mine.

[Narrator]

Out at the mention of gold, the cabin door was closed even more silently than it had been Opened. The ferret faced man who closed it remained inside the cabin. He stood against the wall and fingered a knife drawn from his belt.

[Jack Barton]

Easy does it, Jim. Easy now. Easy. I thought that was going to be as. Jack. Listen up close. You have the map? Yes, Jim. You'll need more than the map to find the gold claim. Take that map to the town of Ogilvy. Ogilvy? Show it to Hanford. Peter Hanford. The two of you stake the claim, share the gold mine. You understand? Yes, Jim. Pete Hanford at Ogilvy? Yes. Behind you. Lennox.

[Narrator]

What are you doing here?

[Sergeant Preston]

Let's go.

[Jack Barton]

Over me, you sneakin eavesdropper. You've been listening to what old Jim said. Don't lie. How long have you been in this cabin?

[Sergeant Preston]

I don't know.

[Jack Barton]

I didn't mean no harm.

[Sergeant Preston]

Jack.

[Jack Barton]

You hear what old Jim said about a gold mine? Did you? Jack, listen to me please. I couldn't help overhearing him. I'll help you look for the gold mine.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let me work with you.

[Jack Barton]

Not a chance. I don't want anything to do with you, Lennox. I just remember this. You forget everything you heard. You understand? Oh yeah, yeah. Sure thing, Jack. You breathe a word of what old Jim told me, I'll kill you.

[Narrator]

Get out.

[Jack Barton]

It's a good thing you saw him. Jim. Oh, Jim. So long, Jim.

[Sergeant Preston]

So long.

[Narrator]

The thin faced man named Lennox was the first to leave the Yukon Queen. When the steamer docked at Dawson, he hurried to the most popular cafe. After eyeing the patrons, he approached two men who stood at the far end.

[Sergeant Preston]

Of the long lunch counter.

[Narrator]

They were hard faced men and their eyes were shifty.

[Jack Barton]

You're looking for someone, stranger? I'm looking for information. Why'd you come to us? Think we look smart? You two look like men who knew their way around. What's that got to do with you wanting information? I thought you might have heard of a man named Pete Hanford. He lives in Ogilvy. Yeah, we heard. Shut up, Curly. Why are you asking about him, stranger? Who are you? The name is Lennox. I. I just arrived on the Yukon Queen. Oh, he's here. Is there someplace where we might talk without a big eared waiter listening? There's a back room. What makes you think we want to talk with you? I'm ready to pay for information. What have we got to lose, Curly? All right, Joe. Is anyone in the back room? When our steaks are done, send them back there. Let's go, Bally.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, Joe.

[Narrator]

The waiter took plates of food from the kitchen to the men in the back room. About 30 minutes later, Sergeant Preston and Constable Baker entered the cafe and sat down on high stools at the long lunch counter. They ordered tea.

[Jack Barton]

Here's your tea, gents. How's everything at the dock?

[Sergeant Preston]

About the same.

[Jack Barton]

Took you longer than usual to look over the incoming passengers.

[Sergeant Preston]

There was a dead man on board the Yukon Queen. That's what delayed us.

[Jack Barton]

Dead man? Golly. Sergeant Preston?

[Sergeant Preston]

An old man, Joe. Apparently dead of natural causes. Young fellow with him when he died said he'd had a bad heart for some time.

[Jack Barton]

Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, hello, Barton. You give the coroner all the information he wanted about the old man who died?

[Jack Barton]

Oh, yes, sir. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to ask you some information.

[Sergeant Preston]

No, Sit down. This is Constable Baker.

[Jack Barton]

How do you do, sir? I saw you at the dock.

[Sergeant Preston]

Glad to meet you, Barton. Cup of tea?

[Jack Barton]

Oh, no, no thanks, Sergeant. I want to go to a place called Ogilvy. You're the second gent that's asked about Ogilvy in the past hour. I am here. The other man inquired about Pete Hanford.

[Sergeant Preston]

He.

[Jack Barton]

He did what? He looked like a ratty sorter face and shifty eyes. Gave the name of Lennon. Why, that sneakin double crossing. Where is he? Where'll I find him? He got acquainted with Curly Bender and Baldy Clark.

[Sergeant Preston]

Fine company.

[Jack Barton]

The three went into the back room to talk private. Well, I'll deal with him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Just a minute, Bart.

[Jack Barton]

Let me go, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

That crooked.

[Sergeant Preston]

We like to avoid backroom fights.

[Jack Barton]

Ellie tried to murder me. Now he's planning some. Ellie, he's planning something else.

[Sergeant Preston]

You better tell us about it. Come on, Burton. I'll go over to the corner to talk. Come on, Constable.

[Jack Barton]

Right, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

Jack Barton told of his conversation with old Jim Sullivan. He told about the legacy on the map and how Lennox had overheard the conversation.

[Jack Barton]

Now Lennox is talking to those men.

[Narrator]

In the back room. Did old Jim's brother stake that claim and register it?

[Jack Barton]

No, Constable.

[Sergeant Preston]

If he'd filed it, he'd have had to stay and work it.

[Jack Barton]

That's right, Sergeant. And he wanted to return to the States and get old Jim so they could work it together.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see.

[Jack Barton]

Your map, of course. Here it is. Pete Hanford doesn't know where it is. No, he doesn't know a thing about it.

[Sergeant Preston]

This map is worthless unless you have help from someone who knows every landmark in the vicinity.

[Jack Barton]

Pete Hanford's the right man.

[Sergeant Preston]

Put this away, Barton. As I see it, Lennox must have the map before he can hope to find the gold with Curly and Baldy.

[Jack Barton]

He probably plans to waylay Barton on.

[Sergeant Preston]

The trail to Ogilvy. Well, that's a situation easily handled. Let's go to the back room.

[Jack Barton]

What's the play, Sergeant? Hello.

[Sergeant Preston]

Lennox in jail on Barton's complaint of attempted murder.

[Jack Barton]

It'll be my word against his. I have no proof.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's all right. By the time he's brought up for a hearing, you'll have staked your claim. As for Curly and Baldy, we'll see.

[Jack Barton]

Well, no one here Lennox has been here. That empty package held the kind of cigarettes he smokes.

[Narrator]

Looks like he left at the rear.

[Jack Barton]

Door, nowhere in sight.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come with me, Barton. I'll ask the inspector for permission to accompany you to Ogilvy.

[Jack Barton]

I'd like to go along, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, I'll tell the inspector. Meantime, Constable, see if we can find Curly and Baldy here in town.

[Narrator]

Constable Baker learned that Lennox and his companions had left town in the direction of Ogilvy with packs on their shoulders. It was about an hour later when the two Mounties and Jack Barton were ready to start over the same trail, accompanied by Yukon King.

[Jack Barton]

Sergeant, do you think we should try.

[Sergeant Preston]

To pick up the trail of Baldy and Curly? There's no charges against them. Our main purpose is to see that Barton reaches his destination safely.

[Jack Barton]

They might be waiting along the trail to ambush Barton.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, they might try that if Jack's are traveling alone. But I doubt they'll start anything. We're with him. Furthermore, King will run ahead of us. And as those men are waiting in ambush, he'll root them out. Ready, Jack?

[Jack Barton]

Yes, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, King. Let's go, boy.

[Narrator]

Lennox and his companions had intended to ambush Jack Barton and had taken a position behind huge boulders on a hillside. But looking at the distant valley, they saw that their intended victim was accompanied by Mounties. So they changed their plans. They hurried along the hillside, keeping out of sight behind big rocks and shrubs until they were a couple of hundred yards from the trail. They waited there until the others had crossed the mountain and were out of sight. Then Curly broke the silence.

[Jack Barton]

Come all this way for nothing? Why didn't you tell us he'd have red coats with him? I didn't know they'd be with him, Curly. Now what do we do, Charlie? There's more than one way to handle this. We tried one way. You tell us another. We'll just persuade Pete Hanford to work on our side. It'll be as easy as breaking through thin ice. Would Hanford do that? I know a way to persuade Hanford. To do anything I say now. You just leave things to me and we'll have a gold mine.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Pro Savings days are on at Lowe's. Get up to 35% off select major appliances plus Milo's Pro Rewards members get an additional 5% off when you buy five or more. Select GE Whirlpool and Electrolux Kitchen or Laundry Major appliances Lowe's we help you save valid through 123discount valid to MyLow's Pro Rewards members only. Exclusions and other restrictions apply. Selection varies by location while supplies last. See associate or lowe's.com for details. Loyalty programs subject to terms and conditions. Visit lowe's.com terms for details. Subject to change maybe you haven't thought of the woods and forests as being very important. Sure, they're nice to have around. They make good picnic and camping spots. But that's not the only reason we should see that fires don't burn up our forests. Every time there's a forest fire, our national defense takes a beating. Precious timber is lost. Industrial plants are put out of action. Men who could be working other defense projects must be sent to fight the blaze. And nine out of 10 of these fires are caused by somebody's carelessness. So the next time you're around trees or rangeland, think about that. Don't build a campfire unless you have to. And if you do, be sure to drown the embers thoroughly before you leave. If you are not extra careful, you may start a fire that will end in the nations losing valuable timber and costly man hours. If you are careful, chances are that your favorite spot will be there. The next time you want to go camping or picnicking, follow the simple rules of forest fire prevention. Don't you be a firebug. Now to continue, Sergeant Preston, Constable Baker, Jack Barton and King reached the town of Last Chance without seeing anything of the men who were planning to skip and jump Jack Barton's claim. After spending the night in town, they set out early and reached Ogilvie before noon. Pete Hanford lived at the far side of the town. After introduction, Sergeant Preston told about Jack's mission. Hanford nodded.

[Jack Barton]

Yes, I remember Jake Sullivan. He stopped here on his way to the mountain and again on his way back. He told me he'd be returning to the Yukon with his brother. I'm sorry to hear that he couldn't live to profit by his discovery.

[Sergeant Preston]

You think you can find the place where he found gold?

[Jack Barton]

Well, I'll be able to tell you, Sergeant Preston, when I see the man. Oh, here it is, Mr. Hanford.

[Sergeant Preston]

It's very carefully drawn.

[Jack Barton]

Yes, it is. Let's see. A valley here. This must be Moose Valley. One here. Parallel to it, a mountain peak. Three tall trees close together and a mass of rocks. Do the landmarks mean anything to you? Yes, indeed they do. And you can find the place? Well, Jack, I don't want to raise your hopes too high. We'll have no trouble reaching the place. But there's no assurance we'll find gold when we get there.

[Sergeant Preston]

I warned Jack about that.

[Jack Barton]

Oh, I'm not counting on anything. There's no reason why we can't start right away. It'll only take about an hour to reach the area. Oh, fine. I'll tell my daughter. Oh, Jeannie.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Be right there. Dad.

[Jack Barton]

Why, I didn't know you had a daughter. Would I have?

[Jeannie Hanford]

Yes, dad.

[Jack Barton]

Oh, come in here, Medellin. I want to introduce my new business partner.

[Narrator]

Hanford introduced his attractive 19 year old daughter and told the girl about the map. Preparations were made to set out in search of the gold. Meanwhile, Lennox, Curly and Baldy watched the Hanford home from the concealment of an evergreen woods a couple of hundred yards away. The trio had followed Jack and the Mounties to Ogilvie.

[Jack Barton]

Hey, look. Someone's coming from the house. Curly, let's take those binoculars. Here you are. The two Mounties. Yeah, and there's Barton Hanford right behind him. Someone is standing in the doorway. That's a girl I told you about. The four men are starting north from the cabin. Yeah, we'll wait right here for about an hour. That'll give the men a chance to get well away from the house. Then we'll call on the girl. Hope no one sees us. No one's likely to. We're lucky. The Hanford place is a little apart from the town.

[Narrator]

After about an hour of waiting, Baldi led the way to the Hanford house and rapped on the door.

[Jack Barton]

I remember. Let me do the talk and rap again. Maybe she didn't hear you. She heard it all right.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Who is it?

[Jack Barton]

You see, Ms. Hanford, your dad sent us for you.

[Jeannie Hanford]

What did you say about my dad?

[Jack Barton]

Ms. Hanford, I am sorry to be the one who brings bad news.

[Jeannie Hanford]

What is it?

[Jack Barton]

Well, it may not be as serious as the mount he's thinking.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Oh, tell me.

[Jack Barton]

Well, it seems that your father had a fall.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Oh, no.

[Jack Barton]

The three of us came by just after it happened. We offered to help. So Sergeant Preston asked us to come here at the house and get a couple of Blankets.

[Jeannie Hanford]

What happened to my father? Is he conscious?

[Jack Barton]

Well, he was conscious enough to ask for you.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Then I must go to him.

[Jack Barton]

Is there a doctor in town?

[Jeannie Hanford]

Not Nobles either. The nearest doctor is at Last chance.

[Jack Barton]

Well, the sergeant didn't say anything about a doctor. He probably plans to use the blankets to make a litter. Bring her father here at the house.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Please. Come in. I'll get the blankets right away.

[Jack Barton]

All right, boys. Should we take the blankets off this couch?

[Jeannie Hanford]

No, I'll bring some from the bedroom. And I'll be ready as soon as I change to heavier boots. I'll not be long.

[Jack Barton]

She believed every word of it. Baldy, look around this room. See if there's anything belonging to the girl. Anything that would. Here, this'll do. His handkerchief on the table. Here's a silk scarf. Guess I'll take that too. Now we're all set.

[Narrator]

Pete Hanford's task was simplified by the fine detail and precision of the map. He found a mountain peak where three tall trees grew close together and stood like sentinels against the sky. He found a mass of rocks and other landmarks. Finally, he paced off a number of strides and said, dig right here beneath a crust. The snow was soft and not too deep. Presently, the shovel struck frozen ground.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now we'd better use the pickaxe to break that ground.

[Jack Barton]

Keep as close as possible to the tree stump. Jade probably cut the tree himself to mark this place. I'll spade away some of the ground you've broken.

[Sergeant Preston]

No help.

[Narrator]

King, sitting nearby, saw a man coming through the valley from the direction of town. He wondered whether or not to call Preston's attention to the newcomer. Sergeant Preston paid no attention to the dog's low whimper. He was too busy with a shovel. The work progressed for some time, then suddenly.

[Sergeant Preston]

Wait. Hold it.

[Jack Barton]

What is it, Sergeant and Ford?

[Sergeant Preston]

You know, war. Look at this. Say, is.

[Jack Barton]

Is it Jack?

[Sergeant Preston]

Write out your claim notice. This is it.

[Jack Barton]

Oh, gosh. Hey, Hanford.

[Sergeant Preston]

Who's.

[Jack Barton]

Who's this? Baldy Clark.

[Sergeant Preston]

What? You're a long way from home, aren't you, Baldy?

[Jack Barton]

Any law against being here, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you want?

[Jack Barton]

I'm here to deliver a message to Mr. Hanford. Younger gent named Barton. Is that you? Yes, but who are you? He's mighty private. You'd both better come away from the lawman for a minute or two. It's something you want to hear.

[Sergeant Preston]

Go ahead. See what he has to say.

[Jack Barton]

Billy, Will, let's go over this.

[Narrator]

Baldy led Hanford and Jack Barton nearly 50 yards away from the place where they had been digging. It was too far for either of the Mouties to hear the conversation. While Preston and the constable waited, they deepened the hole and examined the oar more carefully to further confirm the fact that that it was truly an outcropping of gold.

[Sergeant Preston]

Probably worth a fortune. It's too early to say that, Baker, but we may be sure it's a mighty valuable discovery they're returning. Hmm. About time. Been talking for over half an hour.

[Jack Barton]

I wonder what Baldy had to tell those two.

[Sergeant Preston]

Whatever it was, it's had a sobering effect.

[Jack Barton]

Yeah, it sure has. Look at the expression on Baldy's face. Ever I saw a smug expression. We'll pick up the tool and return to my place.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant, what about posting your claim notice, will it?

[Jack Barton]

This isn't our discovery, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

What?

[Jack Barton]

That's right, Sergeant. I'm posting the claim notice. You, Mr. Clark convinced us that he has a prior right to this land. Now, hold on, Wally.

[Narrator]

If you have a prior right, where's your claim notice?

[Jack Barton]

A little oversight, Constable. I didn't get around to posting it. That's all right. I'll post it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now, Hanford, what's behind this? Is it blackmail?

[Jack Barton]

Oh, no, Sergeant. It's just that Baldy Clark convinced us that he has more right than we to stick this land notice. It's all written on. I'll just fasten it to this tree stump. There's something mighty mysterious about this deal, Wally.

[Narrator]

You're not going to get away with it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now steady, Constable. If Hanford and Barton are willing to concede to Clark, there's little we can do about it.

[Jack Barton]

That's right, Sergeant. Now get to town and register this claim. I'll see you again, Hanford. Well, there goes our gold miner.

[Sergeant Preston]

Why? Huh? Why did you and Hanford let him steal your claim? What did he hold over your heads?

[Jack Barton]

Sergeant, there was nothing else we could do. Hogwash.

[Sergeant Preston]

You could have told him to go.

[Narrator]

Jump in the creek.

[Sergeant Preston]

What would he have done if you'd defied him?

[Jack Barton]

Please, Sergeant, I don't want to discuss it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, I do. Baldy Clark is a crook. He stole a gold mine from you and Barton while Constable Baker and I stood right here watching. I can't understand why you let him.

[Narrator]

Get away with it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Is your daughter involved? Put.

[Jack Barton]

Please, Sergeant. Harry, that's it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Are you protecting your daughter? Have those crooks captured Jeannie?

[Jack Barton]

Sergeant, there's nothing that can be done about it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Then they have captured Jeanne?

[Jack Barton]

Yes. Jake don't see anybody. We might as well tell the truth. Lennox and Curley are holding Jeanne a prisoner. Baldy promised that she'd be released as soon as he had filed a claim in Ogilvy.

[Sergeant Preston]

How do you know Baldy wasn't bluffing?

[Jack Barton]

He showed his genie scarf and a ribbon she wore and a handkerchief.

[Sergeant Preston]

Baker got the town with the shortest route. See that Baldy does not file that claim.

[Jack Barton]

Right. There are no. Sergeant, my daughter's leg.

[Sergeant Preston]

How do you know they'll keep their word to release her? They may kill her anyway so she can't testify against them.

[Jack Barton]

I'm on my way. We must trust those men.

[Sergeant Preston]

We must capture them and jail them.

[Jack Barton]

You can't go near their hiding place. They'll see you and kill Genie. King, Preston, don't go. My daughter's.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm as interested in saving her life as you are.

[Jack Barton]

Come on, King.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston turned abruptly and set out with King along the back trail. He traveled fast and was soon at the Hanford house at the edge of town. Without pausing to rap on the door, he went inside.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, gang.

[Narrator]

It took but a moment to learn that the house was empty. The mount. He went with King into the girl's bedroom. Small shoes that had been changed for hiking boots lay on the floor.

[Sergeant Preston]

Here, boy. This is the scent to follow. All right, King. We're on our way.

[Narrator]

After Sergeant Preston had left the scene of the gold discovery, Jack Barton and Pete Hanford gathered up to tools and started south. They traveled slowly. They had covered about two thirds of the distance to Hanford's house and were passing a dense stand of timber when they saw Sergeant Preston and King.

[Jack Barton]

He's coming this way. Hanford. What do you make of that? What's that?

[Sergeant Preston]

Dog.

[Jack Barton]

He's following a scent. Preston sees you. He's holding a hand to his mouth.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Jack Barton]

Doesn't want us to call out to him. I wish we could persuade him to give up trying to catch those crooks. At least Nilgeni is safe at home.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm glad you didn't shout.

[Jack Barton]

I suppose you've been to my house.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. That's where King picked up the scent. Your daughter was brought along this trail, Hanford. From this point, she was taken into the woods.

[Jack Barton]

There's a hard packed trail into the woods. It's a sled trail to a community west of here.

[Sergeant Preston]

King and I are going on. Hanford, you and Jack care to join us for the showdown?

[Jack Barton]

Sergeant, once more I appeal to you. Don't try to catch those crooks until my daughter is safe.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sorry, Hanford.

[Jack Barton]

Those crooks are sure to see you before you can close in. They'll kill Genie as they threatened and they'll shoot you.

[Sergeant Preston]

They may be too busy to do any shooting.

[Jack Barton]

What do you mean?

[Sergeant Preston]

King's learned a lot of tricks. This may be the time to use a couple of them. Come along. See what I mean?

[Narrator]

Deep in the woods, a small one room cabin stood near the trail. Inside, Genie sat on a bench tied hand and foot. Curly watched the girl while Lennox kept his face turned toward a small square opening that had been cut through the wall for ventilation.

[Jack Barton]

If you hadn't gotten suspicious, Jeannie, we wouldn't have had to tie her like this.

[Jeannie Hanford]

At least I know the truth. And I'm glad to know my father wasn't hurt.

[Jack Barton]

Glad you take it that way. Hey, Curly, come here a minute. What's the matter, Lennox? Look at that animal crawling this way. Is that a dog or a wolf? Yeah, looks like a dog. He's hurt. Yeah, now he's trying to stand. No, there he goes down again. You know, that looks something like Sergeant Preston's animal. What's he doing here? How do I know? He sure seems to be hurt bad.

[Narrator]

The two men watched King inch forward, whimpering as if in pain. Nearer and nearer the big dog came until he was within six feet of the door. Then Curly noticed.

[Jack Barton]

Something's fastened to his collar. Looks like a note. So it does. I'd like to see what it is. I'm going to open that door and let the dog in. Do you suppose Sergeant Preston is nearby? Well, if he were, the dog would go to him hurt as it is. You know that dog acts like it had been poisoned.

[Narrator]

With the door open, King tried once more to stand but collapsed on the threshold, whimpering loudly. His ears lay back and it seemed as though he had no strength to stand. Curly reached for the paper fastened to the collar. At that moment, from somewhere in the dense trees, Sergeant Preston's voice rang out. In an instant, King changed. He leaped to his feet, fangs bared. He charged at Curly and knocked the man off. Battle. Hey, call him off.

[Jack Barton]

Help me.

[Narrator]

Lennox reached for his knife, but King seemed to anticipate the move. His jaws closed on the schemer's arm.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let go.

[Jack Barton]

Let go.

[Narrator]

Curly drew his gun, but Sergeant Preston was at hand.

[Jack Barton]

Don't go, Preston.

[Narrator]

Drop that gun.

[Jack Barton]

Don't shoot.

[Narrator]

Don't shoot.

[Jack Barton]

Got off. This dog got him off. Take him away.

[Narrator]

You're covered, Lennox.

[Jack Barton]

Dunking.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, boys.

[Jack Barton]

Now take that gun.

[Narrator]

Kermit.

[Sergeant Preston]

Both of you stand against the that wall.

[Jack Barton]

Dad. Jeie, are you all right?

[Jeannie Hanford]

Yes, yes, I'm all right, just cut these ropes.

[Jack Barton]

I'll Cut you loose, Ms. JeIe.

[Sergeant Preston]

Give me your wrist, Kearney. Now you, Lennox, you're under arrest for the abduction of Ms. Hanford.

[Jack Barton]

Are you sure they didn't hurt you, Ms. Jeanie?

[Jeannie Hanford]

Oh, no. It's a matter of fact. I wasn't even tied until a little while ago. Tony's father had been injured. They were taking me to him. They brought me to this cabin and said he'd be brought here. Then I became suspicious and I learned the truth. Oh, Jack. Did they get the gold clean?

[Jack Barton]

We don't know, Jack.

[Sergeant Preston]

Constable Baker went into town to stop Baldy from filing that claim. We'll start for town directly to arrest Baldy. I'm sure you'll find that Hanford and you will be able to stake your claim.

[Jack Barton]

Genie, I want you to know that Barton here didn't hesitate a minute about giving up his share of the claim when he thought it would save you alive. Mr. Hanford, what's her gold claim compared to a girl like Jeannie?

[Jeannie Hanford]

Oh, dad.

[Sergeant Preston]

If you're ready, we'll take these prisoners to town.

[Jack Barton]

I'm ready. That dog, he acted like he was one jump ahead of death until he got inside this place.

[Sergeant Preston]

Among other things. King's quite an actor.

[Jack Barton]

I suppose that paper on his collar was just part of the act.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right, Curly. It's blank paper. Just to make you curious. Any other questions?

[Jack Barton]

No.

[Sergeant Preston]

Then this case is closed.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Here's a mutual note for you this Sunday. Rest your eyes on Mutual, where the scene is set for the nation's most popular day of rest. Listening in your own mind's eye of imagination. Here you can find Adventure Unlimited, can traverse the far reaches of the earth or even investigate mysterious and unearthly goings on. You'll hear tales to take you winging across space and time. Stories of frankly fantastic suspense as well as dramatic reenactments of real life episodes. Nowhere else can you escape so completely from the familiar environment of your own daily living to dare the dangers of far away places to accompany fearless and intrepid challengers of the unknown. Or to live again in the glorious days of our own American past. You'll find fiction detectives too, with intriguing crime bafflers for the whodunit fans to sharpen their wits on as they try to outguess some of the cleverest sleuths in the business. Start this Sunday to make listening a mutual habit. You're sure to Enjoy the programs heard over most of these stations. And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty.

[Jack Barton]

Inspector Sergeant, We've heard that Hunt Sparkman, who was wanted for several robberies, was seen in the town of Fort Albert.

[Sergeant Preston]

What about the men who worked with him, sir?

[Jack Barton]

We still know nothing about them.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sparkman and his gang have been wanted for a long time.

[Jack Barton]

Hunch has managed to escape capture because he always has an ace up his sleeve.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll do my best to bring him in, sir.

[Jack Barton]

Bringing his gang with him. Sergeant Very well, sir.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston's assignment is more difficult than he realizes. For the men in Hunch, Sparkman's gang know Preston is looking for the boss. When he takes Hunch into custody, he unwittingly walks into a six gun trap that may cost him his life. 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 Trendle Campbell Muir Incorporated, directed by Fred Flower Day and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday. This is J. Michael wishing you great goodbye and good luck until Thursday. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Jeannie Hanford]

Sam.

[Andrew Rines (Podcast Host)]

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 Ron W. 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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright right have a great day and thanks for listening.