Hand of Death | Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok (03-13-53)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Hand of Death
Series: Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok
Host: Andrew Rynes
Release Date: January 25, 2025

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok, host Andrew Rynes immerses listeners in a classic Western saga that combines high-stakes drama with the timeless charm of the Old West. Through meticulously restored audio, the episode transcends its original recordings, offering listeners an enriched auditory experience filled with vivid soundscapes and dynamic performances.

Plot Overview

The episode, titled "Hand of Death," follows the legendary lawman Wild Bill Hickok and his trusty deputy, Jingles (played by Andy Devine), as they arrive in the remote border town of Desert Hole. Tasked with assisting the town's sheriff, Glenn Stillwell, they are immediately thrust into a web of mystery and betrayal following the sheriff’s untimely death.

Key Scenes and Developments

Arrival at Desert Hole

At [01:30], Guy Madison as Wild Bill Hickok and Andy Devine as Jingles make their entrance:

Guy Madison (Wild Bill Hickok): "Hi, you folks. Hold on your hat. Gallop along with Guy Madison as Wild Bill Hickok and his pal Jingles."
Andy Devine (Jingles): "Which is me, Andy Devine."
Timestamp: [01:30]

The duo quickly assesses the situation in Desert Hole, noting the town's superficial appearance and the lurking undercurrents of corruption.

Discovery of Sheriff Stillwell's Death

Upon meeting Sheriff Stillwell, the partnership takes a tragic turn. At [05:00], they discover the sheriff dead with a single word scrawled beside him:

Andy Devine (Jingles): "The last thing Sheriff Stillwell wrote before he died. There it is. S O N. That's Son."
Timestamp: [05:15]

This cryptic message steers Bill and Jingles toward suspecting Tom Stillwell, the sheriff's son, who has a known history of conflict with his father.

Investigation at Pete Dawson's Place

Bill and Jingles suspect that Pete Dawson may be involved in the sheriff's murder. At [11:04], they decide to pay a visit:

Andy Devine (Jingles): "We're gonna pay a visit to Pete Dawson's place. You coming along, Judge?"
Timestamp: [09:00]

Their investigation leads them to Dawson's gambling den, where they confront him with the evidence, only to realize that the real antagonist is not Tom but a corrupt figure masquerading as Judge Sam Nelson.

The Revelation of Judge Nelson

A pivotal moment occurs at [20:11], when Bill uncovers a critical piece of evidence:

Andy Devine (Wild Bill Hickok): "Judge Sam Nelson killed an Amarillo five years ago. His money and papers were stolen. Killer unknown."
Timestamp: [21:03]

This revelation exposes Judge Nelson as the true culprit behind both Sheriff Stillwell's and Marshal Stan Jones's deaths, unmasking his sinister motives driven by vengeance and power.

The Trial and Confrontation

In a climactic courtroom scene at [21:46], Bill and Jingles confront the corrupt Judge Nelson:

Andy Devine (Wild Bill Hickok): "We find Tom Stillwell guilty of murder."
Timestamp: [21:50]
Judge Nelson: "I sentenced you to be hanged within the hour."
Timestamp: [21:54]

However, Wild Bill bravely interrupts the unfair trial, presenting the newly discovered evidence that proves Judge Nelson's true identity and his murderous deeds.

Climax and Resolution

The final showdown sees Judge Nelson's façade crumble as Bill and Jingles secure his arrest. At [23:08], Bill delivers a decisive blow:

Andy Devine (Wild Bill Hickok): "This is all I need to hang the guilty man. And it won't be Tom Stillwell."
Timestamp: [22:34]

With justice served, Tom Stillwell is exonerated, and peace is restored to Desert Hole as he prepares to marry his fiancée, Nancy.

Characters

• Wild Bill Hickok (Guy Madison): The stoic and determined U.S. Marshal seeking justice in Desert Hole.
• Jingles (Andy Devine): Wild Bill's loyal and witty deputy, providing both support and comic relief.
• Judge Sam Nelson (McDonald's Advertiser Voice): The antagonist posing as a judge, secretly orchestrating murders to cover his tracks.
• Sheriff Glenn Stillwell (McDonald's Advertiser Voice): The town sheriff whose death sets the investigation in motion.
• Tom Stillwell (McDonald's Advertiser Voice): The sheriff's son, initially suspected but ultimately proven innocent.

Notable Quotes with Attribution

• Wild Bill Hickok: "Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles rolled into Desert Hole to help Sheriff Stillwell run down a killer."
  Timestamp: [02:24]

• Jingles: "If I could just lay my hands on the coyote who did this."
  Timestamp: [05:14]

• Judge Sam Nelson: "You haven't explained. What about this gun that was fired?"
  Timestamp: [08:11]

• Wild Bill Hickok: "This trial is over."
  Timestamp: [23:03]

These quotes underscore the unfolding tension and the unwavering pursuit of truth by the protagonists.

Conclusion

In "Hand of Death," Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles epitomize the archetypal Western heroes, navigating deceit and danger with courage and integrity. The episode masterfully combines suspenseful storytelling with memorable characters, culminating in a satisfying resolution that upholds the virtues of justice and righteousness. Through Andrew Rynes' expert hosting and the exceptional performances of Guy Madison and Andy Devine, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Old Time Radio Westerns.

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Stay Tuned:
Join us next month for another captivating adventure in the Wild West, only on the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast. Don't forget to like, rate, and subscribe to support our digitally restored classics!

Transcript

[McDonald's Advertiser]

If you went on a road trip and you didn't stop for a Big Mac or drop a crispy fry between the car seats or use your McDonald's bag as a placemat, then that wasn't a road trip. It was just a really long drive. Ba da ba ba ba at participating.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

McDonald's if you're a facilities manager at a university, you know students rely on the cafeteria for breakfast, lunch, dinner and the occasional late night snack. So when a dishwasher breaks down and dirty plates pile up, the mess hall can turn messy in the blink of an eye. Enter Grainger. With over a million industrial grade products and fast delivery, the product you need now is never far away. So you can turn that dishwasher back into a lean, clean washing machine. Call click grainger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.

[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.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Kellogg's, the greatest name in cereals, presents Wild Bill Hicker.

[Guy Madison]

Hi, you folks. Hold on your hat. Gallop along with Guy Madison as Wild Bill Hickok and his pal Jingles. Which is me, Andy Devine. We got another Rootin Tootin Wild Bill Hickok adventure story for you from that famous talkin cereal, Kellogg's Rice Krispies. Snap, crackle, Pop.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Today, Kellogg's Rice Krispies, the world's only talking cereal, brings you Wild Bill Hickok, transcribed in Hollywood and starring Guy Madison as Wild Bill and Andy Devine as his pal jingles. In just 30 seconds, you'll hear the exciting story Hand of Death.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

If you went on a road trip and you didn't stop for a Big Mac or drop a crispy fry between the car seats or use your McDonald's bag as a placemat. Then that wasn't a road trip. It was just a really long drive. Ba da ba ba ba.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

At participating McDonald's, it just takes seconds to just seconds for mom to get you a really delicious breakfast. And when you're hurrying to get ready for school, that's important. In just seconds, you can shake out a bowl full of fresh Kellogg's Rice Krispies and put the sugar and cream on them. Then snap, crackle, pop. That's what you'll hear. Those Rice Krispies say good morning to you because tumble toast and spins them full of crispy goodness, makes them golden toasty all over. Boy oh, boy, they taste good. How about enjoying Kellogg's Rice Krispies tomorrow morning for breakfast? And right now, how about enjoying Wild Bill Hickok? Throughout the Old West, Wild Bill Hickok and his big deputy, Jingles were known as two men who could be depended on for a helping hand when one was needed. When Bill received an urgent call for help from his old friend Sheriff Glenn Stillwell he and Jingle saddled up and rode hard and fast for the little border town of Desert Hole. And a meeting with the hand of death.

[Guy Madison]

Bill, whoever named this place Desert Hole knew what he was doing. They ought to push the town in the hole and cover it up.

[Andy Devine]

I'll admit it isn't much to look at, Jingles but there's plenty of money around here. The biggest cattle town in the territory.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, they must have money around here. My, my, Just look at that sign. 25 cents for a bath. That's for me. I'm going in and take a bath and make myself a quarter.

[Andy Devine]

Jingles, they don't pay you, you pay them.

[Guy Madison]

You mean they charge you to take a bath?

[Andy Devine]

That's right.

[Guy Madison]

What a swindle. No wonder the sheriff needs help in this. This must be a crooked town.

[Andy Devine]

Worse than that. You remember hearing about U.S. marshal Stan Jones of Texas?

[Guy Madison]

Marshall Jones? He was the one shot in the back and killed right here in Desert Hole last week, wasn't he?

[Andy Devine]

Right. That's what Sheriff Stillwell wired me about. He thinks he's on the trail of the man who killed Marshall Jones and he just needs a little more evidence and thought we might help him.

[Guy Madison]

He may have that evidence by this time.

[Andy Devine]

Well, we'll soon find out. Jingles. Here's his office.

[Guy Madison]

Whoa, whoa, whoa. Joker.

[Andy Devine]

Who? Hello, sheriff. We just got Bill.

[Guy Madison]

He's asleep, sheriff.

[Andy Devine]

Hey, Jingles, look. He's dead.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, no. Not Glenn.

[Andy Devine]

Drill right through the back. Didn't have a chance.

[Guy Madison]

If I could just lay my hands on the coyote who did this. Hey, wait a minute. Ain't that a piece of paper under there, under your arms?

[Andy Devine]

Yeah. Let me see that.

[Guy Madison]

What is it, Bill?

[Andy Devine]

He just had time to print one word before he died. There it is. S O N. S O N. That's Son. Yeah. Jingle's son.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, Bill. Not Sheriff Stillwell's own boy. I can't believe it.

[Andy Devine]

What else are we to think?

[Guy Madison]

Oh, Bill, you're plum local. Why, we know that kid. We know he ain't the kind that'd kill his own father.

[Andy Devine]

Now, listen, Jingles. Sheriff Stillwell was an officer of the law. One of the best.

[Guy Madison]

Well, what's that got to do with it?

[Andy Devine]

His last effort would be to name his killer if he could, wouldn't it?

[Guy Madison]

Yeah, I suppose so, but. Oh, doggone it, Bill. Maybe he was trying to leave a message for Tom. Maybe that's it, huh?

[Andy Devine]

I hope you're right. We gotta find Tom Stillwell. And I hope we don't have to arrest him for murder. Somebody went out the back door.

[Guy Madison]

I'll get him. Dog gunnedy. Disappear. I tailed it down the alley and ducked in between some buildings. Well, let's get the horses.

[Andy Devine]

No use right now, Jingles. We'll find him later.

[Guy Madison]

You think it was young Tom?

[Andy Devine]

It could have been. Maybe he heard what we said and he left.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

All right, you two. Stand right where you are and drop those guns.

[Guy Madison]

But, mister. You guys.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Drop those guns.

[Andy Devine]

Better do what the man says, Jingles.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Now what are you two doing here? What's wrong with the sheriff?

[Andy Devine]

I'm sorry to say, but he's dead.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Dead?

[Guy Madison]

We found him slumped over his desk with a slug in his back.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Very nice story. I'll take a look at your guns. Just as I thought. One of these guns had just been fired and I think it's yours, my fat friend.

[Guy Madison]

Don't call me friend.

[Andy Devine]

We can explain everything.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

You'll do your explaining in court. I'm Judge Nelson. With Sheriff Stilwell dead, I'm the law here. You two are under arrest. Under arrest?

[Guy Madison]

You can't arrest us.

[Andy Devine]

Well, Jingles, under the circumstances, you can't blame the judge. But I think he'll change his mind when I tell him who we are. I'm United States Marshal Bill Hickok. Marshall Hickok.

[Guy Madison]

Darn tootin. I'm his fat friend. Oh, doggone. I'm his deputy, Jingle.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

I suppose you can prove that.

[Andy Devine]

Yes, I can. Right here in my pocket.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Put your hands up.

[Andy Devine]

Sorry. If you reach in my pocket, you'll find my badge and also a wire I got from Sheriff Stillwell asking for our help.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

U. S Marshal Bill Hickok have picked up trail of man who killed Marshall Stan Jones of Texas. Need your help. Signed, Glenn Stillwell.

[Andy Devine]

I'd hardly have that wire if I'm not who I claim to be.

[Guy Madison]

And here's my badge to go with it.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Well, gentlemen, I guess that proves it all right. I'm Judge Sam Nelson.

[Guy Madison]

Judge Sam Nelson? You must be the famous hanging judge from Amarillo.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

No, I'm afraid not. Oh, Nelson's a pretty common name. And I've never been in Amarillo. One more thing. You haven't explained. What about this gun that was fired?

[Andy Devine]

Somebody was hiding in the back room when we came in. Whoever it was escaped through the back door.

[Guy Madison]

That's right, Judge. I took a couple of shots at him, but I missed. We think we know who it was.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

The man who killed the sheriff.

[Andy Devine]

That's my guess. Take a look at this paper.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

S O N. What does it mean?

[Andy Devine]

It's the last thing Sheriff Stillwell wrote before he died.

[Guy Madison]

Points to one man, Tom Stillwell. His son.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

His own son. I can't believe it. But Tom and his father have been having some bitter quarrels. Last week they came to blows and the sheriff threw Tom out of the house.

[Guy Madison]

You know what they were squabbling about, Judd?

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Yes. Tom's been hanging out with the gambling bunch. Pete Dawson's place. Last week he announced his coming marriage to Pete Dawson's daughter.

[Andy Devine]

Where's young Tom been staying?

[McDonald's Advertiser]

With the Dawsons.

[Andy Devine]

Jingles, we're gonna pay a visit to Pete Dawson's place. You coming along, Judge?

[McDonald's Advertiser]

No, I think he'll stay here and take care of things. Sheriff Stillwell is my best friend. When you find Tom, bring him to me, son or no son. He's gonna hang.

[Andy Devine]

Jump and.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Jiminy Slim. What was that?

[Andy Devine]

Hey, what is that?

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

A prairie wolf.

[Andy Devine]

Couldn't be a cowboy howling for more Rice Krispies, or could it? No siree Charlie. That's a wolf all right. Calling the pack. Hollering for him to come on and go a hunting mighty lonesome call to to hear when you're night riding. But say, come to think of it, Charlie, it ain't much worse than the racket that the cook has to put up with if he runs out of Rice Krispies.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Slam. You cowboys really go for Rice Krispies, don't you?

[Andy Devine]

Why, sure, man. Cowboys are people. They like good eats just the same as anybody. And another thing. The cook likes Rice Krispies too. You bet your boots. Cause there's no fixing to them. All he has to do is just open up the box and pass them around.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

You're right, Slim. Rice Krispies are ready to eat anytime. They're tumble toasted by an exclusive Kellogg process that spins them full of crispy goodness and makes them golden toasty all over. So all you have to do is just put a little sugar and milk on them. Then snap, crackle, pop. You're set with a delicious dish. Enjoy a bowl full of Kellogg's Rice Krispies tomorrow morning. Now let's get back to Wild Bill Hickok. Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles rolled into Desert Hole to help Sheriff Stillwell run down a killer. But they found the sheriff himself dead with a slug in his back. And on a piece of paper they found printed. Just one word, son.

[Guy Madison]

Bill, what makes you think we'll find Tom at Dawson's place?

[Andy Devine]

You heard what Judge Nelson said. Tom Stillwell plans to marry Dawson's daughter.

[Guy Madison]

You mean you figured Dawson would hide him out?

[Andy Devine]

That's right. Dawson is a plenty tough critter.

[Guy Madison]

You don't have to tell me. He's the fastest man with a gun I ever saw. Except one.

[Andy Devine]

We're liable to see him in action in a few minutes. All right, be ready with your guns. Jingles could be waiting for us.

[Guy Madison]

Yeah, I ain't looking forward to this one teeny weeny bit, but let's go. Woo we Bill. What a layout.

[Andy Devine]

Biggest gambling hole west of the fakers. Name any kind of a game and they got it.

[Guy Madison]

Well, I'll bet there's one game they ain't got here.

[Andy Devine]

What's that?

[Guy Madison]

An honest one. I wouldn't even play checkers in this joint.

[Andy Devine]

Well, I don't see Dawson at any of the tables.

[Guy Madison]

He's probably in his office weighing his money.

[Andy Devine]

Yeah, it's a door here under the stairs. Fine, while I give a listen. Yeah, he's in there all right. And there's somebody with him.

[Guy Madison]

Tom Stillwell.

[Andy Devine]

Well, I can't make out the voices, but we'll soon find out.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Who is it?

[Andy Devine]

Marshall Hickok. I'm busy right now. Come back later.

[Guy Madison]

Slog Jingle Dawson, open this door. We'll tear it off the hinges.

[Andy Devine]

Get away in that door, Hickok.

[Guy Madison]

Let me lean on it. Bill Hick.

[Andy Devine]

I told you not to come in.

[Guy Madison]

Wow, what a shot. Just like I figured. Bill Dawson ain't quite as fast as you.

[Andy Devine]

Hey Gu, what's the idea of you and this big moose charging in here? You got nothing on me. Maybe we have. Dawson, I heard somebody in here with you a moment ago. Where is he? I know what you're talking about. I think you do. Dawson. We heard two voices. Now where's the other man? I tell you there was nobody here but me. Huh? Then maybe you can explain why there are two cigars burning there on your desk.

[Guy Madison]

Well, he talks out of both sides of his mouth. Maybe he smokes the same way.

[Andy Devine]

Dawson, your visitor was Tom Stillwell.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Really?

[Andy Devine]

You're so smart. Where is he now? I'll just tell a look in this next room. There's nobody in there. We'll see about. Keep away from that door.

[Guy Madison]

You. So you want to play rough? I'll just have to get you down and sit on you.

[Andy Devine]

Thanks, Jingles.

[Guy Madison]

Dawson, where's young Steelwell?

[Andy Devine]

I don't know.

[Guy Madison]

No, no, no. I'm going to bounce up and down on you until you start talking. Now. All right, all right. Stop it.

[Andy Devine]

He's ready to talk, J. I knew.

[Guy Madison]

I could squeeze it out of him. Now, come on, Dawson. On your feet.

[Andy Devine]

Okay, Hickok, you win. I'm still where I was here. I stalled you long enough for him to get away. That's twice he's taken the back way out. First time was right after he killed his father. Hickok, you're a fool if you think he did that.

[Guy Madison]

Well, if he didn't do it, what's he running for?

[Andy Devine]

Because the cards are stacked against him. Everybody knows he had a fight with his dad last week. The sheriff was opposed to Tom marrying your daughter, wasn't he? That's right. He threw Tom out of the house. But that's no motive for murder.

[Guy Madison]

Lots of people have been killed for last. And besides, we have proof.

[Andy Devine]

Proof? What proof? Take a look at this. S O N. What does that mean? The sheriff printed that just before he died. Hey, Cuck. I don't know what to say. Always thought I was a good judge of man, but not this time. Sorry, Dawson. Now, do you want to tell us where Tom went? He was riding out to his place, pick up some clothes and he was heading for the border.

[Guy Madison]

Well, he's had too much of a head start, Bill. We'll never get him now.

[Andy Devine]

Maybe he can. I got a hunch he'll stop off at my place first to say goodbye to Nancy. Where is your place, Dawson? The Mill Creek Road, south of town. Come on, Jingles. I think this time we'll get our man.

[Guy Madison]

But, Bill, we'll never catch Tom Stillwell this way.

[Andy Devine]

I think we will, Jingles.

[Guy Madison]

But Dawson told us we'd probably find Tom at his place saying goodbye to his daughter.

[Andy Devine]

Yeah, I know that, Jingles. Dawson got mighty helpful all of a sudden.

[Guy Madison]

You mean you think he gave us a bum stare, huh?

[Andy Devine]

I'm almost sure of it, Jingles. He was sending us on a wild goose chase. So we're following Dawson. And I think he's going to lead us to Stillwell.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, I see.

[Andy Devine]

Hey, that's Dawson's horse.

[Guy Madison]

Somebody just lit a lamp inside the sheriff's office. Look. Look there by the window.

[Andy Devine]

Yeah, Dawson, all right.

[Guy Madison]

Look who he's with. Tom Stillwell. Let's take him, Bill.

[Andy Devine]

Hold up, Jingles. Not yet. Let's see what they're up to.

[Guy Madison]

They're opening the safe.

[Andy Devine]

Yeah? Tom's got a letter. He's showing the Dawson.

[Guy Madison]

What do you think it is, Bill?

[Andy Devine]

Now's the time to find out. Let's go.

[Guy Madison]

Let's go.

[Andy Devine]

Stillwell. Hold it. You're under arrest, Dingles. You get the keys out of the sheriff's desk and we'll lock him up. You're not arresting me, hick. I take him, Pete. You won't get away this time. Take waiting for the door.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, no, you don't. That's what I call a nice double.

[Andy Devine]

All right, you two, get up. Open the cell door, Jingles.

[Guy Madison]

Right this way, gentlemen. Now in you go.

[Andy Devine]

You're making a terrible mistake, Mr. Hickok. I didn't kill my father. I'm innocent, I tell you.

[Guy Madison]

For an innocent man, you've been mighty hard to kill.

[Andy Devine]

I didn't kill him, I tell you. Look at this letter we just found.

[Guy Madison]

What is it, Bill?

[Andy Devine]

It's a letter from Marshall Jones of Texas written to the sheriff. Dear Glenn, I'll be in Desert Hole a week from today to see you on serious business. Be sure that Judge Nelson is there too. Signed, Stan Jones, United States Marshal. Doesn't say much, does it? Marshal Jones never got to see my father. He was ambushed on the way here. I found his body.

[Guy Madison]

Did you kill Marshal Jones?

[Andy Devine]

What for? I didn't even know the man. But I figure whoever killed a marshal also killed my dad. You stay here, Jingles. I'll see who it is.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Evening, Marshal.

[Andy Devine]

Oh, Judge Nelson. Come in. Glad you stopped in, Judge. Got a letter here I'd like to have you see.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Letter from whom?

[Andy Devine]

It's a letter from Marshal Jones to Sheriff Stillwell. Ever see it before?

[McDonald's Advertiser]

No, I haven't.

[Andy Devine]

You'll notice it says Jones also wanted to see you.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

I don't know what to make of it. I never did know what Jones came here for. Sheriff never mentioned it to me. No, I can't help you there, Hickok. Where'd you get this letter?

[Andy Devine]

From Tom Stillwell.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

From Tom? You mean you got him?

[Andy Devine]

Yeah. He's right back there in the cell. You want to see him?

[McDonald's Advertiser]

You bet I want to see him.

[Guy Madison]

Well, howdy, Judge. We've got.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Get out of my way. Oh, there you are, Tom. You sneaky little murdering. Gunslick.

[Andy Devine]

Stop him, Jingle. He's going for his gun.

[Guy Madison]

Now, give me that gun or I'll break your arm. Grab it, Bill.

[Andy Devine]

I got it, Jingles. All right, let him Go.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

I'll kill him. I'll kill him.

[Andy Devine]

What's the matter with you, Judge? What are you trying to do? Yeah.

[Guy Madison]

You're supposed to uphold the law. Tom's entitled to a fair trial and.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

He'Ll get it Tomorrow morning at 9:00.

[Andy Devine]

Tomorrow morning? You can't do that.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

I said tomorrow morning.

[Andy Devine]

But there's no time for the boy to prepare his defense.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

There is no defense. He goes on trial tomorrow and he's going to hang.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

You know, a skeptical person is someone who says, I'll believe it when I see it or hear it myself. And that's why no one stays skeptical for very long about Kellogg's Rice Krispies. No, sir. Cause Kellogg's Rice Krispies give off with a cheerful snap, crackle, pop to tell you right off that here is a cereal that's fresh and crisp. Fresh and crisp because it's been tumbled, toasted, toasted evenly and spunful of crisp goodness. And the first delicious spoonful tells you all about that wonderful flavor of Kellogg's Rice Krispies. Now, a handy way for mom to get Kellogg's Rice Krispies is Kellogg's Rice Krispies handy packaging. That's eight generous individual sized servings of Rice Krispies, each separately packaged and all eight wrapped together with cellophane. Have mom look for them at the grocer's. And now how about a little music? Kellogg's Rice Krispies Kellogg's Rice Krispies let's.

[Andy Devine]

March right up to the table now Rice Krispies taste the best and how.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Snap, crackle, hot Kellogg's Rice Crispies, Kellogg's Rice. While Bill Hickok and Jingles finally captured young Tom Stillwell as he was opening the safe in his father's office this morning, Tom goes on trial before Judge Nelson, charged with murder. Bill and Jingles are still at the sheriff's office going through some papers.

[Guy Madison]

Bill, don't you think we ought to get over to that courthouse? This trial must be half over by now.

[Andy Devine]

There's nothing we can do for Tom over there. If I could just find some scrap of evidence to tell us who killed Marshall Jones. You sure? You look through all those pigeonholes in the desk, you know.

[Guy Madison]

Oh, I've been through so many pigeon holes, I feel like I got wings. You really think Tom is innocent?

[Andy Devine]

Well, all the evidence is against him, but I still can't bring myself to believe he killed his father or Marshal Jonesy. Hey, wait a minute.

[Guy Madison]

What'd you find, Bill?

[Andy Devine]

In this record book here, the sheriff made an entry. It says, found out Today that Judge Nelson came from Amarillo.

[Guy Madison]

That's a funny thing to put down.

[Andy Devine]

Not as funny as you think, Jingles. Remember when we met Judge Nelson for the first time yesterday right here in this office?

[Guy Madison]

I hardly forget it.

[Andy Devine]

You asked him if he was in a relation to Judge Sam Nelson of Amarillo.

[Guy Madison]

By golly, you're right, Bill. He said he'd never been to Amarillo.

[Andy Devine]

Come on, Jingles, we're heading for that telegraph office.

[Guy Madison]

You get an answer to your telegram, Bill?

[Andy Devine]

Yeah. Listen to this. Judge Sam Nelson killed an Amarillo five years ago. His money and papers were stolen. Killer unknown. This is it, Jingles.

[Guy Madison]

This is it. This is what?

[Andy Devine]

Judge Nelson of Desert Hole is a fake.

[Guy Madison]

You mean he killed the real Judge Nelson and moved here to Desert Hole?

[Andy Devine]

I'd stake my life on it. Marshall Jones and Sheriff Stillwell got on his trail and he killed them too.

[Guy Madison]

Well, what are we waiting for? Let's give it over to that courthouse, Jingles.

[Andy Devine]

We're gonna blow that trial sky high.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

This court will come to order. Gentlemen of the jury, have you reached your verdict?

[Andy Devine]

We have, you, Honor. We find Tom Stilwell guilty of murder.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Well, Tom Stillwell, Stand up. You've heard the verdict. Tom Stillwell, I sentence you to be hanged within the hour.

[Guy Madison]

You can't do that. I'm innocent. I'm innocent.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Take the prisoner away.

[Andy Devine]

Come on, you.

[Guy Madison]

You'll never hang me. Come on. All right, Leave that boy alone.

[Andy Devine]

Who you talking to?

[Guy Madison]

He's talking to you. Now let go of Tom before I spread that nose of yours all over your face.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Hickok, what's the meaning of this? How dare you interrupt the proceedings of.

[Andy Devine]

This court just because. I'm not going to let you hang an innocent man.

[Guy Madison]

Not while we're around, you ain't.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Tom Stillwell has been found guilty by a jury and my sentence stands. I've signed an order for immediate execution. Here it is. As United States Marshal, I turned the hanging job over to you.

[Andy Devine]

Thank you for the paper, Judge. This is all I need to hang the guilty man. And it won't be Tom Stillwell.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

Hickok, the people of Desert hall will not stand for your interference.

[Guy Madison]

Now, sit down. Sit down, you jabbering monkeys, or I'll nail you to your seats for some hot land.

[Andy Devine]

People of Desert Holes, you heard in the evidence Sheriff Stillwell printed three letters on a piece of paper just before he died. Those letters were S, O, N. We thought it meant his son, Tom.

[McDonald's Advertiser]

And that's exactly what he did mean. This trial is over.

[Guy Madison]

Now, one More yap out of you, Judge, and I'll feed you that gavel. Big end first.

[Andy Devine]

Friends, we now know that those three letters didn't mean son at all. They are the initials of the man who not only killed Sheriff Stillwell, but he also killed a Texas marshal, Stan Jones. Those three initials belong to the man who just signed this order for execution. This man who calls himself a judge, Samuel O. Nelson.

[Guy Madison]

And we also can prove that he killed the real Judge Nelson and Amarillo five years ago.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Never take me alive.

[Guy Madison]

Well, he ain't the fastest man with a gun either.

[Andy Devine]

Look at the bell up to lock him up. Jingle Mr. Hickok. And jingles, I don't know how to thank you for what you've done for me. That's all right, Tom. I think that young lady in the back of the room is waiting for you. Yeah, that's Nancy. Goodbye and thanks again. Well, Jingles, looks like those two are heading for a wedding.

[Guy Madison]

Yeah, just look at them two lovebirds. Ain't it cute?

[Andy Devine]

Jingles, how come you never got married? Wouldn't you like to call some girl Mrs. Jones?

[Guy Madison]

Oh, that's one thing I could never do, Bill. Just wouldn't be right to call a girl Mrs. Jones.

[Andy Devine]

But why not?

[Guy Madison]

Cause that's my mother's name.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

And now, here are the stars of Wild Bill Hickok, Guy Madison and Andy Devine.

[Andy Devine]

That's it for now, folks, but we'll be back again on Monday. What's the story, Andy?

[Guy Madison]

Oh, it's about a foolish young maverick guy who tries to take the law in his own hands and ride a trail of vengeance.

[Andy Devine]

So long, kids.

[Guy Madison]

See you Monday. Choo Choo Choo. Choo Choo Choo. Your favorite cereal.

[Andy Devine]

You tell them, Andy.

[Guy Madison]

From Kellogg's Variety Pack.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Yes, keep the whole family happy every morning for breakfast, roll out freshness and variety. 10 individual serving size boxes with 10 assorted Kellogg's cereal favorites, including two ready sweetened treats that you get in Kellogg's Variety Pack.

[Guy Madison]

Choo Choo.

[Kellogg's Advertiser]

Choose your favorite from Kellogg's Variety Pack at your grocers. Kellogg's, the greatest name in serials, has brought you another exciting story of Wild Bill Hickok, starring Guy Madison and Andy Devine in person. Today's cast included Sam Edwards, Ralph Moody, Tony Barrett and Dusty Walker. Our story was written by Lou Fulton and directed by Paul Pierce. Music by Dick Orant. This is a David Hire production. Transcribed in Hollywood. Now. This is Charlie Lyon speaking for Kellogg's the Greatest Name in Cereals reminding you to listen again Monday, same time same station for another adventure of.

[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 the following ranch hand, Steve 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 copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.