Helps Kansas Kate | Lightning Jim (1952)

Summary

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Episode Summary: “Helps Kansas Kate | Lightning Jim (1952)”

Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Date: August 7, 2026

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Main Theme

This episode presents a digitally restored version of the classic radio western Lightning Jim: Helps Kansas Kate (originally aired 1952), immersing listeners in the drama and moral dilemmas of the Old West. The story centers on themes of loyalty, duty, and redemption as Marshal Lightning Jim Whipple intervenes when beloved cook Kansas Kate's son is implicated in desertion and criminal plans at a frontier outpost.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

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1. Life at the Frontier Fort

[03:11–05:50]

• The story opens at Fort Anderson where two young troopers, Jack Dolan (Kansas Kate’s son) and Red Ross, voice their grievances with military life and hint at disillusionment.

• Quote:

  “They chase us all over the country to fight some redskins who got more right to this land than we have. Now what do we get for it? Rotten food and a hard living. Who cares if we get killed? We're troopers. It's our duty to be killed. Well, I'm sick of the whole blame business.”
  — Jack Dolan [04:43]

• Colonel Barker overhears and punishes Jack and Red with 10 days in the guardhouse, stressing the seriousness of army duty.

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2. Kansas Kate’s Eatin’ House

[06:14–10:20]

• Lightning Jim and his deputy Whitey Larson ride into Indian Lodge, hungry and seeking Kansas Kate’s famed cooking.

• The banter highlights Whitey’s ever-present appetite and the camaraderie of the lawmen.

• Kansas Kate expresses growing fear for her missing son, Jack, who hasn’t arrived despite promises.

• Quote:

  “Somehow I've got a feeling that he's in trouble of some kind.”
  — Kansas Kate [09:45]

• Lightning offers reassurance, but there's a sense of dread.

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3. Guardhouse Planning & Desertion

[11:12–13:14]

• In the guardhouse, Red and Jack conspire to desert after their release, motivated by a sense of futility and fear of dying in battle.
• They plan to meet up with Al Slack, a known deserter with a secret hideout.
• Their escape turns violent when a sentry is killed during the breakout.
  • Pivotal moment:

    “One of the sentries come up and Red shot him down.”
    — Red recounting events to his mother [23:38]

• This act sets the rest of the narrative in motion, elevating personal stakes for all involved.

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4. On the Run & The Pursuit

[13:35–16:32]

• Jack and Red flee through the night, aiming for Al Slack’s hideout while the troopers and Colonel Barker begin a manhunt.
• Lightning Jim and Whitey encounter Colonel Barker and learn that Jack Dolan is one of the deserters, shocking Lightning and Whitey, who know the family well.
• Together, they develop a plan: Barker will pursue through the canyons, while Lightning and Whitey discreetly monitor Kate’s home, suspecting Jack will try to see his mother.

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5. At the Hideout – The Outlaws’ Plan

[18:05–20:09]

• Jack and Red join Al Slack at his cabin; plans are made to rob the payroll from a local silver mine.
• Slack expresses distrust in newcomers, aware that frightened young men may become informants.

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6. Jack’s Choice & Return to Kansas Kate

[20:45–24:19]

• Jack, guilt-stricken and unable to go through with the robbery, sneaks away from the hideout and returns to Kansas Kate for sanctuary.

• The reunion is fraught:

  “Oh, Jack, what have you done by? What have you done?”
  — Kansas Kate [22:59]

• Lightning Jim and Whitey arrive and gently confront Kate, seeking Jack. When he emerges from hiding, he confesses everything—including his role in the desertion and knowledge of Red’s actions.

• Kate is heartbroken but relieved her son is honest:

  “A deserter? You? The son of a soldier. I can't believe it. My own son a deserter.”
  — Kansas Kate [23:13]

• Jack insists on facing the consequences:

  “I'll face it out like a man should.”
  — Jack [24:17]

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7. The Sting Operation and Resolution

[25:10–29:18]

• With Jack’s cooperation, Lightning Jim sets a trap for Red and Al Slack.

• Red returns to the hideout, only to be apprehended by Jack, who now stands against his former friend and accomplice.

  “Turn around and hurry up cuz I ain't fooling. I'll take that cash box first.”
  — Jack to Red [26:15]

• Al Slack attempts to rob Kansas Kate at gunpoint, but Kate, using a trick taught by her late husband, disarms and captures him.

  “Give me that gun. Put up your hands, mister. I pull the trigger if you move a muscle.”
  — Kansas Kate [28:30]

• Lightning Jim, Whitey, and the Colonel bring the outlaws to justice.

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8. Closing Reflection and Aftermath

[29:34–30:14]

• Colonel Barker, hearing the full story, pledges leniency for Jack, recognizing his honesty and change of heart.

  “Jack has learned a lesson that no punishment could teach. Honor and respect for the trust that is given to a soldier.”
  — Colonel Barker [29:43]

• The episode closes on a note of redemption, patriotism, and restored faith for Kansas Kate.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Desertion & Duty:

  “I'm a rotten, low down coward.”
  — Jack Dolan [23:08]

  “‘Jack has learned a lesson that no punishment could teach. Honor and respect for the trust that is given to a soldier to serve his country.’”
  — Colonel Barker [29:43]

• Kansas Kate’s Grit:

  “Give me that gun. Put up your hands, mister. I pull the trigger if you move a muscle.”
  — Kansas Kate [28:30]

• Comic Relief:

  “My stomach is so empty, my backbone is where my stomach ought to be.”
  — Whitey Larson [06:40]

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Key Timestamps

• 03:11–05:50 – Army life, discontent, and guardhouse discipline.
• 06:14–10:20 – At Kansas Kate’s eatery; introduction of the personal stakes.
• 13:35–16:32 – Desertion, violence, and start of the pursuit.
• 18:05–20:09 – At Al Slack’s hideout; criminal plans are made.
• 20:45–24:19 – Jack’s return, confession, and intention to atone.
• 25:10–29:18 – Outlaws apprehended, Kansas Kate’s bravery, justice served.
• 29:34–30:14 – Discussion of consequences; lesson on honor.

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Tone and Atmosphere

The episode mixes earnest drama, Western grit, and humorous interplay, remaining faithful to the period’s radio storytelling while portraying the values and stakes of the frontier life.

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For New Listeners

Even if you haven’t experienced Old Time Radio before, Lightning Jim: Helps Kansas Kate delivers a fast-paced tale of honor, betrayal, and redemption, highlighted by vivid characters—especially the resourceful Kansas Kate—and classic Western tension, all restored in superb audio for a new generation.

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Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be Lightning Gem, originally aired in 1952 and the title is helps Kansas Kate.

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[Colonel Barker]

Is it your misfortune and none of my own? I I o Get along you little doggies. You know that the prairie will be your.

[Narrator]

Sam. And now for the thrilling adventures of Lightning Jim.

[Red Ross]

Some fight, eh Red?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah, some fight. We ain't troopers. The kids playing cowboy and Indians.

[Red Ross]

I don't get you.

[Jack Dolan]

Listen, they chase us all over the country to fight some redskins who got more right to this land than we have. Now what do we get for it? Rotten food and a hard living. Who cares if we get killed? We're troopers. It's our duty to be killed. Well, I'm sick of the whole blame business.

[Red Ross]

Yeah, we sure was crazy to end list.

[Colonel Barker]

Do you mean that, boys?

[Red Ross]

Colonel Barker?

[Colonel Barker]

You boys don't think much of the army life, do you?

[Jack Dolan]

Ah, we. I was just making a little fun, Colonel.

[Colonel Barker]

A little fun, huh? I don't think either of you realize what it really means to be a United States soldier. I'm giving both of you 10 days in the guardhouse to think it over.

[Narrator]

In the early days of the American frontier, the government established forts and army outposts to help bring law and order to the wild and sparsely settled region known as the Great American Plains. The brave troopers encountered the blizzards of snow that swept down from the north and the scorching winds of the deserts. They were attacked by the hostile tribes of Indians who bitterly opposed the white man's advance into the red man's hunting grounds. Life at the forts and outposts was

[Red Ross]

hard and many were killed.

[Narrator]

A life that weakened the courage of strong men. Assisting the troopers and local peace officers were the fearless United States Marshals, the G men of the old West. The thrills of those history making times come back to us in the adventures of United States Marshal the Lightning Jim Whipple and his deputy, Whitey Larson. We join them now on the road leading to a busy frontier town called Indian Lodge.

[Whitey Larson]

By God, it's like I'm so doggone hungry I could take a bite out of my saddle and think there was a piece of beef steak.

[Narrator]

Well, I'm sorry Whitey, but that saddle belongs to the government. And I won't have you chewing on government property.

[Whitey Larson]

Well then the government better fix it so I can shoo you on some food.

[Narrator]

It's just your Imagination, Whitey. It's all in your head.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, yes, my imagination.

[Jack Dolan]

Sure.

[Narrator]

And the more you think about it, the hungrier you get. I'll think about something else. You won't be hungry.

[Whitey Larson]

Yo, that sounds good, but it don't work. My stomach is so empty, my backbone is where my stomach ought to be.

[Narrator]

Whitey, listen. How'd you like to have a nice big juicy steak? A baked potato with a lot of butter on it, Hot biscuits and coffee.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, say, Lightning Ease. Thinking about that makes me weak in the knees.

[Narrator]

What? Weak in the knees, eh? That explains everything, eh?

[Whitey Larson]

What do you mean?

[Narrator]

No wonder you're always hungry. You've got hollow legs.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, it's that sore. Yeah, you think I'm funny, but I don't.

[Narrator]

Well, don't get excited, Whitey. We're coming into Indian Lodge. Does that mean anything to you?

[Whitey Larson]

Indian Lodge? Will you believe me? Ain't that where Kate eating horses?

[Colonel Barker]

Sure.

[Narrator]

Kansas Kate. The finest cook on the plate.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, why didn't you see? So what we waiting for? Say, I can taste that steak already.

[Kansas Kate]

My go. Come on.

[Narrator]

Another piece of pie, Kate? How about some coffee?

[Kansas Kate]

Sure, and you can have all the pie and coffee you want. Anything more for you, mister?

[Al Slack]

I reckon not. You must do a pretty good business here, man.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, sure, and I can't be complaining. What with the new silver mine starting up. I've all I can handle.

[Al Slack]

Yeah, where there's miners, there's always plenty of cash.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, wait, mister. You got change coming. Well, of all things.

[Narrator]

Well, what's trouble, Kate?

[Kansas Kate]

Sir Jasper went off without waiting for his change.

[Narrator]

The one that just went out the door?

[Whitey Larson]

The same.

[Narrator]

Who is he, Kate?

[Kansas Kate]

Well, I don't know his name. Only been in here a few times. Why, have you seen him before? Lightning.

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah, Eshe lightning. Can't you forget business for yest one minute? I come in here to eat and I want the steak dinner.

[Kansas Kate]

Good for you, Whitey. It's no time to talk business when a man's got an empty stomach like you.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, that's right. That could stubble for me.

[Narrator]

All right, Kate.

[Jack Dolan]

Two steak.

[Whitey Larson]

Your share and all the trimming too tasty.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, how about another piece of pie, Whitey?

[Whitey Larson]

No, thank you, ma'.

[Narrator]

Am.

[Jack Dolan]

I'm full.

[Narrator]

I thought you were hungry, Whitey.

[Whitey Larson]

You're. Well, I was. When I come in here, I was so weak I could hardly stand up. Now I'm so full I can't get up off the ship.

[Narrator]

I give up, Kate. You can't. Please.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, never. You might, Whitey. Whenever you're hungry. Just come to Kate.

[Whitey Larson]

You are?

[Jack Dolan]

Sure.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, by the way, Lightning, I was meaning to ask you, have you seen me boy Jack at Fort Anderson?

[Narrator]

Not since he enlisted. That's six months ago, isn't it, Kate? Me and Whitey been traveling around the country after bandits and outlaws. We ain't been back at fort for quite a spell.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, you see, he told me Colonel Barker was going to let him off for a few days so he could come out here to see me. And he was coming a week ago. Every day I've been waiting, and every day it's the same. Not Jack.

[Narrator]

Well, I wouldn't worry none, Kate. You know, a trooper's life ain't exactly regular.

[Kansas Kate]

Sure, and I know that maybe you'll be saying I'm a foolish old woman, but somehow I've got a feeling that he's in trouble of some kind.

[Narrator]

No, Jack's all right. I'm sure he's Kate.

[Kansas Kate]

Good to hear you say that, Lightning. You know his father was in the service.

[Narrator]

Oh, yeah. I knew Sergeant Dolan. He was a fine soldier, too, Kate.

[Kansas Kate]

Sure, and he was that till the redskins got him. Bad Sisters and the Red Devils. I'm praying the same thing won't come to Jack or.

[Narrator]

Don't think about the worst side, Kate. Just remember, he's doing his duty, serving his country, and you can be proud of him for that.

[Kansas Kate]

I am, Lightning. I'm mighty proud of that. You know, me father always said it's your liver makes you think bad things. So I guess it's me liver that's putting the diver in me farts.

[Narrator]

Same old kid.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, now, will you look at Whitey, will you? Fast asleep.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Look at that mouth. I got a good mouth.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, no.

[Kansas Kate]

Go easy on the lad. He's tired out, that's what he is. Sure, and he sounds like one of them locomotives.

[Narrator]

Hey, Whitey. Whitey, Wake up.

[Jack Dolan]

Whitey.

[Narrator]

How about another steak?

[Whitey Larson]

What's that?

[Narrator]

I say, how about another steak?

[Kansas Kate]

Steak, he said.

[Whitey Larson]

The way I feel now, I think there would be a mistake.

[Jack Dolan]

Well, Jack, we've been in the guard house 10 days today.

[Red Ross]

Yeah, I know.

[Jack Dolan]

10 days in this stinking jail. And for what? Just cause we don't fancy the idea of being shot down by them redskins. Fella can't talk out loud no more.

[Narrator]

Nah.

[Jack Dolan]

This supposed to be a free country. I know what I'm gonna do.

[Red Ross]

What are you gonna do?

[Jack Dolan]

Can't you guess?

[Red Ross]

You mean you're aiming to clear out?

[Jack Dolan]

Sure, and so will you if you're smart.

[Narrator]

Yeah, but now that's desertin, Red.

[Red Ross]

You know what it means if you're caught?

[Jack Dolan]

Don't worry. They won't catch me where I'm going.

[Narrator]

Yeah?

[Jack Dolan]

Where's that? Come along and I'll show you.

[Narrator]

Now that's too risky.

[Jack Dolan]

Listen, it won't take us five minutes to clear town. And when we cross the river and make the hills in Smoky Valley, we're safe.

[Red Ross]

What about them redskins?

[Jack Dolan]

If we stay here, we gotta fight Redskins, don't we?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

And you might be the next one to get an arrow or a bullet in the head. Now we know where the redskins are and we'll head out of Indian country fast. What do you say?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Red Ross]

Well, Red, if I was only sure we could get away safe.

[Jack Dolan]

You leave that to me. Remember Al Slack?

[Red Ross]

You mean the chap who deserted last month?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah, that's him. He got away safe, didn't he? Yeah, sure. The colonel sent out a troop. They didn't find Al. He was smart. I could have gone when he did, but I got sick and he went by himself. But he's got a hideout and I know where it is.

[Narrator]

You do?

[Jack Dolan]

Sure. We can sleep as long as we want and eat some real food again. Yeah, yeah, but.

[Red Ross]

But I ain't got no money, really.

[Jack Dolan]

Don't worry about that, Jack. I got some cash and Al has plenty. Now listen, they'll be letting us out of here tonight. But instead of going back to the barracks, I'll meet you back at a tool shed behind the stable.

[Red Ross]

What about horses?

[Jack Dolan]

Don't worry. I'll get the horses. Here comes the guard.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

Remember tonight. Hey, Jack. Over here. I got the horses.

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

Hey, listen, Red, I've been thinking this over.

[Red Ross]

I can't do it.

[Jack Dolan]

I can.

[Narrator]

Out. Huh?

[Red Ross]

Yeah. Well, I don't blame you for feeling like you do, but I feel the same way. But I just can't go with you.

[Jack Dolan]

Don't be a fool. This is your chance to get away.

[Narrator]

Who goes there?

[Red Ross]

The sentry.

[Jack Dolan]

We're caught on our way, ace.

[Narrator]

Who goes there? Come on.

[Jack Dolan]

You can't back out now. Get on that horse.

[Narrator]

Stop around killing.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh,

[Red Ross]

you killed him.

[Jack Dolan]

Well, it was him. A rush now.

[Kansas Kate]

Come on.

[Red Ross]

They'll have to hold barracks.

[Narrator]

After it.

[Jack Dolan]

Purple.

[Al Slack]

Up the guard.

[Whitey Larson]

Shut up. Come on, get moving.

[Jack Dolan]

Come on, get up there.

[Narrator]

Oh, boy.

[Red Ross]

Wow, what a.

[Jack Dolan]

I wish sure had a run for it.

[Red Ross]

Yeah, but where do we go from here?

[Jack Dolan]

Up this canyon? North Indian Lodge.

[Red Ross]

Indian Lodge?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah. Al's hideout is five miles from the town.

[Kansas Kate]

Hey, look.

[Jack Dolan]

Where?

[Red Ross]

Down there by the river.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

It's the troopers.

[Red Ross]

They found our trail again.

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah, but from here on we're taking the rocks in the creek bed.

[Red Ross]

Get up.

[Jack Dolan]

Come.

[Red Ross]

Get up.

[Narrator]

Hey, Whitey. Hey. Hey, can't you hear me? Wake up. First thing you know, you'll be falling off that horse.

[Whitey Larson]

A what horse?

[Narrator]

Your horse.

[Whitey Larson]

What's the matter with my horse? He's all right.

[Narrator]

Well, that's more than I can say for you. What you need is a little excitement.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, no, Lightning. I just want to see Fort Anderson. Where? That's nice. And try it, Lightning.

[Narrator]

Whoa.

[Colonel Barker]

Thunder.

[Jack Dolan]

Woah, boys.

[Narrator]

Full on, Whitey.

[Whitey Larson]

Bo. There. Full boy. What's the matter? Who's coming?

[Narrator]

Look up ahead.

[Jack Dolan]

Who?

[Narrator]

Who? Who?

[Whitey Larson]

By golly, the troopers.

[Narrator]

Right. And here comes Colonel Park.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, there must be plenty trouble up like.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Howdy, Colonel.

[Colonel Barker]

Well, Lightning, Jim invited.

[Jack Dolan]

Hello, Colonel.

[Colonel Barker]

We saw you two chaps coming down the trail and for a while we thought you might be the two deserters we're looking for.

[Narrator]

Deserters?

[Colonel Barker]

That's right. Two young chaps. Maybe you know him. Red Ross is one overseer.

[Whitey Larson]

I know him by garlic. He's got red hair and he thinks he's a tough guy.

[Colonel Barker]

Yeah, that's a good description, Whitey.

[Narrator]

Who's the other one, Colonel?

[Colonel Barker]

Young Jack Dolan.

[Narrator]

What?

[Colonel Barker]

Yes, I know what you're thinking, Lightning. We all knew Jack's father before he was killed by the redskins.

[Narrator]

Yeah, well, I'm sure sorry to hear that, Colonel.

[Colonel Barker]

So am I. Do you know his mother, Kansas Kate runs an eatin house over at Indian Lodge.

[Narrator]

Yeah, me and Whitey just come from there.

[Colonel Barker]

Well, I'm afraid you haven't heard the worst.

[Narrator]

What do you mean, Colonel?

[Colonel Barker]

Red and Jack stole a cash box, shot down a sentry and deserted the fort there.

[Narrator]

That's plenty, Vlad. Any idea where they went?

[Colonel Barker]

Yes, we followed the trail along the river. They crossed over and doubled back. We figured to go up Willow Canyon and come back to Indian lot. Zach might try to get in touch with his mother.

[Narrator]

Yeah, Colonel, maybe Whitey and me can help you on this.

[Colonel Barker]

Fine. You want to come with us?

[Narrator]

No, I got another idea. You go on up the canyon and me and Whitey will head back to Indian Lodge and keep an eye on Kate's house.

[Colonel Barker]

All right, Lightning.

[Narrator]

And if you don't mind, Colonel, I. I'd like to be first to talk to Kate about it. I know her pretty well and maybe I can break the bad news, kind of dental like.

[Colonel Barker]

Sure, Lightning. And I don't envy you that job.

[Whitey Larson]

Nor me neither.

[Jack Dolan]

I tell you, she thinks A lot to that boy.

[Narrator]

Yes, Whitey. Enough to break any mother's. Will the two boys be caught. Well, what happened to Jack and Red and Kansas Cape will be shown in part two, which will follow immediately. Sam. And now for part two of the thrilling story Lightning Jim helped Kansas Kate. Kate's son Jack and another trooper, Red Rossi, deserted from Fort Anderson and were heading for the hills, pursued by the troopers from the fort.

[Jack Dolan]

Well, here we are, Jack. This is the cabin, all right.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Red Ross]

Look like nobody's here.

[Jack Dolan]

Well, if Al ain't around, we wait till he comes back.

[Al Slack]

Put up your hands and don't move.

[Jack Dolan]

Hey, don't shoot, Al. That's me, Red.

[Al Slack]

Well, I'll be.

[Whitey Larson]

Don't go.

[Al Slack]

Who's this with you?

[Jack Dolan]

It's Jack from the fort. He'll remember him.

[Al Slack]

Oh, yeah. Howdy, Kid.

[Red Ross]

Howdy.

[Al Slack]

You two were sure taking chances coming this close to the cabin in the dark. I might have drilled both of you.

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah, well, we was in such a hurry to get away from the troopers. We didn't think of that.

[Al Slack]

Are the troopers trailing you up here?

[Jack Dolan]

No, we left them at the river. We doubled back up the creek and over Rocky Ridge. No tracks to follow there.

[Al Slack]

Good. So you finally got smart, eh, Red?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah. The colonel heard me and Jack talking about what we thought of the army, and he'd give us 10 days in the guard house.

[Al Slack]

So you decided to pull out?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah. Had to drill a sentry to get away.

[Al Slack]

I sure hope it was Musty. Never liked that guy. Know how? How will the horses? Over there in the trees and come on inside.

[Jack Dolan]

Sure.

[Red Ross]

You go ahead with Al, Red. I'll take care of the horses.

[Jack Dolan]

Thanks, Ken. I'll rustle up some grub.

[Narrator]

Al.

[Jack Dolan]

Sure is good to see you.

[Al Slack]

Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

What have you been doing?

[Al Slack]

Waiting for a chance to get the payroll cash at the new silver mine near Indian Lodge.

[Jack Dolan]

Silver mine, huh?

[Al Slack]

Yeah. Hey, listen, Red. You know this kid Jack well enough to trust him?

[Jack Dolan]

Oh, sure. He's all right. Wouldn't have brought him along if I didn't think so. He's fed up with the army, just like we are.

[Al Slack]

Yeah, but we got to be sure he don't weaken.

[Jack Dolan]

What makes you think he will?

[Al Slack]

Well, he's young, and kids sometimes get scared and start squealing.

[Jack Dolan]

Don't worry none about that. Jack's on the level and mighty handy with his gun. Yeah, One of the best shots at the fort.

[Al Slack]

We'll see. Say, did he drill the sentry?

[Jack Dolan]

No, I did. Hey, how about some grub? We're starved.

[Al Slack]

Sure. Sure, I was just aiming to pull out of here.

[Jack Dolan]

Where was you going?

[Al Slack]

Down to Indian Lodge. Maybe we'll go after the silver mine cache tonight.

[Jack Dolan]

Sure. Now, where's the grub?

[Al Slack]

You poked up the fire. I'll get it.

[Jack Dolan]

Now we need more wood. I'll tell Jack to pick up some outside.

[Kansas Kate]

Hey, Jack.

[Jack Dolan]

Jack. Hey, where are you?

[Kansas Kate]

Holy smoke.

[Red Ross]

What's the matter, Ren?

[Narrator]

It's gone.

[Red Ross]

What?

[Al Slack]

Are you sure?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah. Look, his horse is gone. There's mine and yours.

[Al Slack]

I told you he was weak, got scared and run.

[Jack Dolan]

I'd like to get my hands on him.

[Red Ross]

Come on, let's swallow him.

[Al Slack]

Yeah. Now let him go. No use chasing him all over the country in the dark. He can hide out too easy, and he ain't worth the trouble.

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah, I guess that's right. Yeah.

[Al Slack]

Come on. We got your grub and start for Indian Lodge.

[Kansas Kate]

Who's there? Open the door. Derek. Wait a minute. Oh, Jack, darling. I'm so glad to see you, son.

[Red Ross]

Hello, Ma.

[Kansas Kate]

I thought you wasn't coming at all. Where's your hat, lad?

[Red Ross]

My hat? It blew off in the river when I was crossing the bridge.

[Kansas Kate]

Ah, that's too bad. But sit down, son, and I'll be getting you something to eat.

[Red Ross]

No, no, don't bother, Ma. I ain't hungry.

[Kansas Kate]

What's the matter with you, By? Ain't you feeling good?

[Red Ross]

I'll be all right. I'm just tired, that's all. What's that?

[Kansas Kate]

What?

[Red Ross]

Somebody's coming.

[Kansas Kate]

There's somebody driving a wagon by outside, if that's what you mean.

[Red Ross]

Oh, yeah, yeah, It's a wagon. Yeah.

[Kansas Kate]

What in the world ails you, huh? Why, you're as white as a sheet and you're sweating like a tay. Kettle.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Red Ross]

I tell you, I'm just tired, Ma. Now leave me alone.

[Narrator]

Please, Jack.

[Kansas Kate]

You wouldn't be keeping anything away from

[Jack Dolan]

your own mother, would you?

[Red Ross]

No, Ma. No.

[Kansas Kate]

What is it, By? What's happened? Are you in trouble? It's them.

[Red Ross]

They've come for me. Oh, I gotta hide.

[Whitey Larson]

Quick.

[Kansas Kate]

No, Jack.

[Red Ross]

Please, Ma. Please don't let them get me. I can explain everything. I didn't mean to do it.

[Kansas Kate]

Don't do it.

[Red Ross]

Closet.

[Kansas Kate]

Now.

[Red Ross]

Tell him I'm not here.

[Kansas Kate]

Mother in heaven, what's he done? Who's there?

[Narrator]

It's me, Kate Light and Jim. Sorry, Kate. May we come in?

[Kansas Kate]

Why, sure you can. I know you're always welcome in my house.

[Narrator]

Come on, laddie.

[Red Ross]

What's your door?

[Kansas Kate]

Well, I. I didn't expect you back here so soon.

[Narrator]

Well, we didn't exactly expect to come back so soon either.

[Kansas Kate]

Won't you sit down for a minute?

[Narrator]

Sure. Kate. You told us you were expecting your son, Jack.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, sure. That's the truth, Kate.

[Narrator]

You know that Whitey and me are your friends.

[Kansas Kate]

I. I hope you are.

[Narrator]

We want to help all we can, but we need your help, too.

[Kansas Kate]

What do you mean, Lightning?

[Narrator]

We just saw a man ride up here and come in. His horse is still out in back of the house. Where is he, Kate?

[Kansas Kate]

For heaven's sake, Lytton, tell me what's happened. What's he gone and done?

[Narrator]

Kate, if Jack's half the man I think he is, he'll come out here now and tell you straight and honest.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, Jack, what have you done by? What have you done?

[Red Ross]

Don't worry, Ma. I'll take my medicine. And I got it coming plenty. I'm a rotten, low down coward.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, no, Jack. Don't be saying that.

[Red Ross]

Well, it's true, Ma. I'm. I'm a deserter.

[Kansas Kate]

A deserter? You? The son of a soldier. I can't believe it. My own son a deserter.

[Red Ross]

I don't know what come over me. I went kind of crazy, I guess. It was Red talked me into thinking that way. It was him planned the whole thing.

[Narrator]

Go on, Jack. What happened?

[Red Ross]

Well, he was gonna get the horses, and we was gonna meet back at the stables. When I got there, something come over me all of a sudden, and I told Red I wasn't going with him.

[Narrator]

Yeah?

[Red Ross]

Well, he said I was crazy. And then it happened. One of the sentries come up and Red shot him down.

[Narrator]

And it was Red done the shooting?

[Red Ross]

Yeah, sure. And then I got scared, and boy knew what I was doing. I jumped on my horse and went with him.

[Narrator]

Where'd you go?

[Red Ross]

The troopers chased us along the river, but we went up over Rocky Ridge to a cabin belonging to a fella named Al Flack.

[Narrator]

Al Flack?

[Red Ross]

Yeah.

[Whitey Larson]

Say, that's the Jaeger that deserted from Fort Anderson about a month ago.

[Red Ross]

Yeah, that's him. He's a friend of Red's. Well, they went in the cabin. I stayed outside to look after the horses, but I could hear him talking.

[Narrator]

Yeah? What'd they say?

[Red Ross]

Well, Al's been laying low, waiting for a chance to rob the silver mine payroll. I don't know what come over me, but I got him a horse and come down here as fast as I could.

[Kansas Kate]

Oh, my poor boy.

[Red Ross]

Please, Maud. I'll space it out like a man should.

[Narrator]

Good boy, Jack. I had an idea you talked that Way. Just one more thing though, Jack.

[Red Ross]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

What about the cash from the port? Cash? Yeah.

[Jack Dolan]

What cash?

[Red Ross]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Narrator]

Colonel Barker says one of you took a cash box before you left the port.

[Red Ross]

Well, it wasn't me.

[Narrator]

No?

[Red Ross]

Red didn't say nothing about getting no cash.

[Narrator]

Probably figured to keep it for himself. Yeah.

[Red Ross]

Well, Lightning, I'm ready to go back to the fort.

[Kansas Kate]

Please lighten, please. Can't you do something for him?

[Narrator]

Yes, Kate, I think we can. If Jack is willing.

[Red Ross]

I'll do anything you say, Lightning.

[Narrator]

All right. Now here's what I got in mind. You take your order.

[Jack Dolan]

Getting that silver mine payroll was a cinch.

[Al Slack]

Yeah, over it.

[Jack Dolan]

Now what's the matter?

[Al Slack]

Hey, I just happened to think of something. You take the payroll cash back to the cabin and wait for me.

[Jack Dolan]

Ah, where are you going?

[Al Slack]

Down to Indian Lodge. Ever hear of Kansas Kate?

[Jack Dolan]

Kansas Kate?

[Al Slack]

Yeah, she runs an eating place in Indian Lodge. She takes in plenty of cash.

[Jack Dolan]

Ah, we got enough with the payroll money.

[Al Slack]

Well listen Red, no use passing up a good bet. We gotta clear out of here anyways. Might as well get all we can. I'll meet you at the cabin. I can handle this all along.

[Narrator]

Oh,

[Red Ross]

Howdy, Red.

[Jack Dolan]

Who's that?

[Narrator]

Me, Red.

[Red Ross]

Remember me, Jack? Yeah. Put up your hands, Red, and keep them up high.

[Jack Dolan]

Oh no, wait a minute. Listen, you have to poke a gun in my. Red.

[Red Ross]

Turn around and hurry up cuz I ain't fooling. I'll take that cash box first. Now I just want your gun, Red. It's better now you can turn around. But don't try no funny business. I'm keeping you covered.

[Narrator]

Hey, what's the big idea, Jake?

[Red Ross]

Never mind that. Where's the cash you took from the port?

[Jack Dolan]

How did you know? I don't know what you're talking about.

[Red Ross]

Ah, yes I do. Hand it over Red, or I'll let you have it.

[Jack Dolan]

Ah, it's in my pocket. Here. It's in this bag. Yeah.

[Red Ross]

Wasn't gonna split that up, was you Red? So you robbed the mine tonight, huh?

[Jack Dolan]

Listen, Jack, let you and me split up this cache and clear out.

[Red Ross]

Oh, now you want to double cross Al?

[Kansas Kate]

Why not?

[Jack Dolan]

He just went back to town to pull another job.

[Red Ross]

What kind of a job?

[Jack Dolan]

Says he's gonna hold up an eatin place run by Kansas Kate.

[Red Ross]

Kansas Kate?

[Jack Dolan]

Yeah.

[Red Ross]

Why that dirty, low down vomit.

[Jack Dolan]

What's the matter? Do you know? You bet I do.

[Red Ross]

Then I'm going to fix you right now.

[Jack Dolan]

Wait a minute. Now don't shoot Me, Jack?

[Red Ross]

No, I'm not that yellow. Red, you shot down the sentry at the fort, didn't you?

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, sure.

[Narrator]

But what's that got to do.

[Red Ross]

Never mind. That's all I wanted to hear you say.

[Kansas Kate]

Ow.

[Narrator]

Good work, Jack. Lightning Jim. Get up, Red. You're under arrest. And the charges? Robbery, desertion and murder.

[Al Slack]

Howdy, ma'.

[Narrator]

Am.

[Al Slack]

Oh, don't be frightened, ma'.

[Narrator]

Am.

[Al Slack]

Just don't make no noise.

[Kansas Kate]

What do you want?

[Al Slack]

Cash, ma'. Am. Cold, hard cash.

[Kansas Kate]

I haven't got any cash here.

[Al Slack]

That's a safe over there in the corner, ain't it?

[Kansas Kate]

Yes, but there ain't any cash in it. Just keep me bills and. And papers in there.

[Al Slack]

Is that so? Open it up and be quick about it.

[Kansas Kate]

But I tell you.

[Al Slack]

Don't argue. Open that safe.

[Kansas Kate]

Sure, if you say so.

[Al Slack]

That's better, ma'.

[Narrator]

Am.

[Al Slack]

Maybe you got cash in there after all.

[Kansas Kate]

Well, there. Look for yourself. There ain't no cash.

[Al Slack]

What's this box?

[Kansas Kate]

I'll show you. Give me that gun. Put up your hands, mister. I pull the trigger if you move a muscle.

[Red Ross]

Come on, Lightning.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Keep Red covered, buddy.

[Whitey Larson]

You're sure, Lightning.

[Kansas Kate]

Come in, boys.

[Narrator]

What, Ma?

[Kansas Kate]

I got a prisoner for you. Like, then.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Pull off his mask, Jack.

[Al Slack]

Sure.

[Red Ross]

Red was right. It's Al Slack.

[Kansas Kate]

Thought he was going to rob me. But I showed him a trick me Denny taught me years ago.

[Narrator]

What was that, Kate?

[Kansas Kate]

How to grab a gun out of a man's hand when he's got the drop on you.

[Narrator]

Good for you, Kate. Now we got to see what we can do for Jack.

[Colonel Barker]

Misses Golden Lightning Jim has told me the whole story. Of course, Jack must be punished. But we're going to give him every consideration.

[Kansas Kate]

Thank you, Colonel.

[Colonel Barker]

I think Jack has learned a lesson that no punishment could teach. Honor and respect for the trust that is given to a soldier to serve his country. It's a duty that places a country's honor above life itself. We who serve now blaze a long, hard trail for the America of tomorrow. We follow the flag of the Stars and Stripes and of the red, white and blue.

[Narrator]

And so ends another thrilling adventure in the lives of United States Marshal Lightning Jim Whipple and his deputy, Whitey Larson. Sam,

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[Andrew Rines]

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