McAllister’s Bonanza | Challenge of the Yukon (12-23-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns: "McAllister’s Bonanza | Challenge of the Yukon"

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Episode: McAllister’s Bonanza | Challenge of the Yukon (12-23-51)
Duration: Approximately 32 minutes

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, listeners are transported to the rugged terrains of the Yukon during the famed gold rush era. The story revolves around Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, his loyal wonder dog Yukon King, and the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of miner Jim McAllister. As the narrative unfolds, themes of greed, deception, and justice intertwine, showcasing the relentless pursuit of truth in the wild frontier.

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Main Characters

• Sergeant Preston of the Yukon: A dedicated officer of the Northwest Mounted Police, known for his unwavering commitment to upholding the law.
• Yukon King: Sergeant Preston's swift and strong lead dog, instrumental in chasing down lawbreakers.
• Jim McAllister: A seasoned miner nearing a significant gold strike but plagued by illness.
• Clay Barnum & Joe Carter: Two men with dubious intentions, ultimately revealed as antagonists.
• Marion McAllister: Jim McAllister's 20-year-old daughter, determined to uncover her father's last wishes.
• Constable Harris: Assistant to Sergeant Preston, aiding in investigations.
• Gabby Hayes: A colorful character who appears briefly, adding depth to the story.

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Plot Overview

1. The Mysterious Death of Jim McAllister ([00:34] - [07:45])

Jim McAllister, an ailing miner, is on the verge of discovering a lucrative gold vein in the Yukon. Despite his health challenges, his primary concern is securing a fortune to support his wife and daughter back in the States. One day, overwhelmed by illness, McAllister collapses near his mining site. Travelers Clay Barnum and Joe Carter discover his lifeless body, unaccompanied by any immediate signs of foul play.

Notable Quote:

Clay Barnum ([03:25]): "Hey, it's Jim McAllister. He's dead."

2. Discovery and Deception ([07:45] - [12:28])

After reporting McAllister's death to Sergeant Preston, Barnum and Carter casually inspect McAllister's belongings. They find an unopened letter intended for McAllister's wife and a substantial amount of gold dust and nuggets. Their nonchalant attitude and subtle handling of the evidence suggest ulterior motives. Sergeant Preston, ever vigilant, ensures the letter remains sealed, maintaining its integrity for McAllister's family.

Notable Quote:

Sergeant Preston ([05:31]): "If the letter is addressed to his wife, it wasn't meant for us to read, so I'll seal it now."

3. Marion McAllister's Quest ([09:06] - [16:35])

Back home, Marion McAllister grapples with her father's sudden death and the mysterious map he left behind. Determined to find the hidden mine, she decides to seek Sergeant Preston's help in Dawson City. Upon her arrival, she is unexpectedly accompanied by Barnum and Carter, who masquerade as deputies. Their true intent is to exploit Marion's knowledge of the map for their personal gain.

Notable Quote:

Marion McAllister ([10:09]): "I'm going to Dawson City."

4. The Trail to Rocky Creek ([17:20] - [25:58])

Under the guise of assisting Marion, Barnum and Carter lead her towards Rocky Creek, where they anticipate discovering the mine. Marion's expertise and familiarity with the terrain make her an invaluable asset. However, their deceitful plan begins to unravel as Sergeant Preston tracks their movements with Yukon King's keen senses.

Notable Quote:

Sergeant Preston ([22:36]): "There's only one place they'd head, and that's up toward Rocky Creek, where her father's mine must be located."

5. The Climactic Confrontation ([24:10] - [26:04])

As Barnum and Carter attempt to seize Marion's sled, Sergeant Preston intervenes. A tense standoff ensues, culminating in Yukon King attacking the crooks. Preston swiftly disarms and apprehends them, ensuring justice is served. He then assists Marion in securing her father's claim, allowing her to fulfill her father's legacy honorably.

Notable Quotes:

Sergeant Preston ([25:02]): "Thunder. King. She's there. I'm coming, boy."

Marion McAllister ([26:04]): "Sergeant, you found it, didn't you? The mine, I mean."

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Key Themes and Insights

• Integrity vs. Greed: The stark contrast between Sergeant Preston's dedication to justice and Barnum and Carter's selfish motives highlights the moral battles of the Wild West.

• Family and Legacy: Marion's determination to honor her father's last wishes underscores the importance of family bonds and legacy.

• Justice in the Wilderness: Sergeant Preston embodies the thin line between law and chaos in the untamed frontier, showcasing the challenges of maintaining order in such a rugged environment.

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Conclusion

"McAllister’s Bonanza | Challenge of the Yukon" is a captivating episode that delves deep into the human psyche against the backdrop of the Yukon gold rush. Through compelling storytelling and dynamic character interactions, the narrative explores timeless themes of integrity, deception, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Sergeant Preston's unwavering commitment serves as a beacon of hope and morality in the lawless expanses of the Wild West.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Clay Barnum ([03:25]): "Hey, it's Jim McAllister. He's dead."

• Sergeant Preston ([05:31]): "If the letter is addressed to his wife, it wasn't meant for us to read, so I'll seal it now."

• Marion McAllister ([10:09]): "I'm going to Dawson City."

• Sergeant Preston ([22:36]): "There's only one place they'd head, and that's up toward Rocky Creek, where her father's mine must be located."

• Sergeant Preston ([25:02]): "Thunder. King. She's there. I'm coming, boy."

• Marion McAllister ([26:04]): "Sergeant, you found it, didn't you? The mine, I mean."

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Final Thoughts

This episode masterfully blends suspense, drama, and the rugged charm of Old Time Radio Westerns. Andrew Rhynes, through meticulous digital restoration, ensures that every hiss, howl, and whisper immerses listeners fully into the golden age of radio. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to these timeless tales, "McAllister’s Bonanza | Challenge of the Yukon" promises an engaging and memorable listening experience.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Narrator]

Now. As gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild northwest, Quaker Oats, the giant of the cereals, 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.

[Sergeant Preston]

On, King. On, you husky.

[Narrator]

Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches back to the days of the gold rush with sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon king, as they meet the challenge of of the Yukon. Brought to you by Quaker Oats. Old sourdough. Jim McAllister was a very sick man, and he knew it. He had worked many streams during his three years in the Yukon and had panned enough gold to send back to his wife and daughter in estates so that they had not been in want. But now, on the threshold of his first great strike, the feeling of doom was upon him. He had hit pay dirt, a seemingly endless vein of gold that promised fortune untold. But his sickness made all that seem dim. McAllister entered the canvas tent where he kept all his belongings with paper and pencil. He sat down and began to write and draw laboriously. Jim McAllister almost collapsed as a new outburst of coughing convulsed him. When he'd recovered, the desire to get away from his diggings and to reach the town of Dawson became paramount in his mind. He placed the unfinished letter in an envelope and placed it unsealed in a large wallet which he carried in the pocket of his pocket. Hours later, miles missed starting point. And now, on the main trail to Dawson, Jim McAllister collapsed. Clay Barnum and Joe Carter, after a summer and autumn of ill fortune in the gold fields, were heading south to Dawson when they saw through the driving snow a blur of off color against the whiteness.

[Clay Barnum]

Ho.

[Narrator]

Ho.

[Clay Barnum]

Ho there.

[Narrator]

Ho. They stopped their sled a short distance from the spot where Jim McAllister lay sprawled in the snow beside his wailing dogs. Clay Barnum bent over the old man. He felt his head, his pulse, and placed his hand inside the man's parka over his heart. Then Barnum stood erect.

[Clay Barnum]

Hey, it's Jim McAllister. He's dead.

[Joe Carter]

Stabbed or shot, huh?

[Clay Barnum]

I don't think so. Will I see there's no signs of either. And what made you think of that?

[Joe Carter]

The count of the word that's been around lately. McAllister struck it rich someplace.

[Clay Barnum]

If he did, nobody knows where. He never filed a claim. Any new, Diggins? You thought maybe somebody killed him and took his. Hey, Joe, he seemed to be heading for Dawson. Maybe he had gold with him.

[Joe Carter]

What are you waiting for? Don't stand there. Let's go through a sled and close and see.

[Clay Barnum]

All right.

[Narrator]

Bottom going through McAllister's pockets came upon the Sourdough's wallet at the same moment that Carter found a bag of gold dust and nuggets in the sled. Carter jumped to his feet triumphantly.

[Joe Carter]

Clay, look.

[Clay Barnum]

A poke full of gold.

[Joe Carter]

A lot of it. What do you got there?

[Clay Barnum]

It's only a wallet.

[Joe Carter]

I see. What's in it?

[Clay Barnum]

I'm going to. Hey, there's an envelope with a letter in it. It's too. Let me see that. Mrs. James McAllister.

[Joe Carter]

Oh, his wife, huh? Wonder what he wrote to her about.

[Clay Barnum]

Maybe you. Hey, what's the matter? What are you whistling like that for?

[Joe Carter]

Hey, look in a wallet. A picture of that girl. She's a lulu, isn't she? Yeah, look close at that. Hey, doggone, Clay, you know what? This must be McAllister's daughter.

[Clay Barnum]

Why, sure it is. Can't you see? It's signed Marion, and it says, to Daddy, with all my love.

[Narrator]

Intent on the picture in the wallet, both men neglected to hear the approaching sled and dog team until it loomed out of the storm and came to a stop.

[Joe Carter]

Clear some money, quick.

[Clay Barnum]

Let him see that bag of gold stick in your pocket.

[Joe Carter]

Yeah, yeah.

[Sergeant Preston]

Easy, King. Easy, boy.

[Clay Barnum]

Oh, hello. Oh, it's you, Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Bonham Carter. What have we here?

[Joe Carter]

Jim McAllister, Sergeant. We just came upon him. He's dead.

[Clay Barnum]

Here.

[Sergeant Preston]

McAllister denned. Oh, yes, no doubt about it. Poor fellow.

[Clay Barnum]

Yeah, he was a nice old guy. He didn't like people.

[Sergeant Preston]

That wallet in your hand and that letter, are they yours?

[Clay Barnum]

Barnum, the wallet. Oh, these? No, no, they're. They're. Well, they were McAllister's. We were just looking through his stuff. Just wondering if. Well, you know.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, certainly, I know. Let me have them, please. The wallet and the letter. The letter belonged to McAllister, too.

[Joe Carter]

Oh, yeah? Yeah. It's to his wife. It wasn't sealed, so we were going to see it.

[Sergeant Preston]

If the letter is addressed to his wife, it wasn't meant for us to read, so I'll seal it now. And send it to her when I arrive in Dawson.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Right now, I want to ask you mothers and dads a question. Do you know why millions of folks over 35 years of age return to the breakfast of their youth? Well, Quaker Oats supplies more life sustaining protein to help keep you energetic and alert than any other of 14 leading cereals. Yes, a leading state university made this amazing test on 14 nationally known cereals, both hot and cold, of all shapes and kinds. And in the report published in food research, a nationally known scientific journal, Quaker Oats is first in life giving protean. And remember, for all its energy and stamina value, a breakfast of Quaker Oats milk and sugar is only 218 calories. So mothers and dads for youthful vitality over 35, for that happy chipper feeling that goes with good nutrition, start eating creamy, delicious, hot Quaker Oats every morning. It costs less than a penny a serving and cooks in only two and a half minutes. Tomorrow, get a package of Quaker Oats or mother's oats, which are the same. Now to continue. Assisted by Barnum and Carter, Sergeant Preston brought the body of Jim McAllister into the town of Dawson. Also his dogs and sled. After a session of questions for official records, the two men who found the body were permitted to go, death having been certified as being due to natural causes away from the mountie headquarters. Carter chuckled.

[Joe Carter]

Hey, Clay. Preston and the other money didn't even ask about the poke we took from McAllister. They didn't even suspect we hooked it.

[Clay Barnum]

Hey, keep your voice down, huh? The reason they didn't suspect was because we had a few more bags of dust on the sled. You didn't see those?

[Joe Carter]

So what if I did? We probably wouldn't have got away with stealing them. They'd expect to find gold on McAllister. They know we didn't make a strike. Gotta be glad we have this. You know, Clay, I wish I'd have slipped that girl's picture out of McAllister's wallet.

[Clay Barnum]

Why?

[Joe Carter]

She was nice. I'll not forget what she looked like, believe me. Hey, here's a cafe. Let's go in, huh?

[Narrator]

At Northwest mounted police headquarters, Sgt. Preston wrote a letter. When he'd finished it, he wrapped it around the letter McAllister had written to his wife and placed both in a large official envelope. Then he sealed the envelope, rose from his chair and walked to where Constable Harris had arranged the dead man's effects.

[Sergeant Preston]

There you are, Harris. This explains everything to Mrs. McAllister. Send it along with his things, will you, please?

[Joe Carter]

Sure thing, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

Back in the United States, when they received Jim McAllister's personal belongings together with a notification of his death, his wife and his lovely daughter, 20 year old Marion, were heartbroken. But after a week, when there seemed to be no more tears that could be shed, the mother and daughter read Jim's last letter once more.

[Marion McAllister]

Oh, it must have been terrible, the life he was forced to lead up there. Just think of it, Marian. He says that out of all the people he'd met, there wasn't one he'd trust.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Except whoever it was he wanted to get in touch with. And in case he died.

[Marion McAllister]

Yes, the chances are we'll never know who that was.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Mother. It could be that Sergeant Preston. That was such a sweet, sympathetic letter he wrote. He said he knew dad well and that he admired him.

[Marion McAllister]

But he didn't say that he knew where. Your father's mine was one he writes about in this letter.

[Mrs. McAllister]

No one knew except dad and now us.

[Marion McAllister]

We still don't know. All we have is this map Jim drew. I can't make head or tail of it.

[Mrs. McAllister]

There are some places that seem plain enough to me on that map. There's Dawson. Here's 40 mile, and these are the mountains. And in here some place is the mine.

[Marion McAllister]

Yes, someplace. Are you able to make it all?

[Mrs. McAllister]

No, but perhaps Sergeant Preston will help me.

[Marion McAllister]

Sergeant Preston? You mean the man who wrote to us from Dawson?

[Mrs. McAllister]

Yes. I'm going to Dawson City.

[Marion McAllister]

Now, just a moment, Marion. If you do go, remember what your father says here about not telling a single soul where the mind is located. And that means anyone.

[Mrs. McAllister]

No, Mother. I'll never tell anyone what's on this map. I'll memorize it and keep it in my mind all the time. And when I get to Dawson City, I'll go see Sergeant Preston at once.

[Narrator]

Marion McAllister arrived in Skagway about a month later, then went by barge and dog sled to Dawson City, now teaming with men back from the gold fields for the winter. She went at once to a hotel registered and then after changing clothes, set out for Northwest Mounted Police headquarters. She did not see Clay Barnum and Joe Carter in front of the cafe, concentrating on her.

[Joe Carter]

Clay, am I seeing things or is that a ghost?

[Clay Barnum]

A ghost, Joe. That's an angel. I never forget the face of an angel.

[Joe Carter]

Not me neither. Clay. That's a girl, all right. The one in the picture. Yeah.

[Clay Barnum]

Marion McAllister. Jo?

[Joe Carter]

Yeah.

[Clay Barnum]

You have any ideas what it means, her being In Dawson City like this?

[Joe Carter]

Sure. It means she's here. After the miner old man found but didn't register.

[Clay Barnum]

We checked again on that last week. Wherever it was he staked out his claim, he never put down the record.

[Joe Carter]

You think maybe she knows? It was that letter to his wife. You remember?

[Clay Barnum]

Yes, I remember. Hey, Joe, look. She's heading for Monte headquarters.

[Joe Carter]

Yeah, and Preston's there too. He and Harris have those two fellows that did the murdering at 40 mile. Yeah.

[Clay Barnum]

Take them down to Whitehorse, Joe. Come on.

[Joe Carter]

Where you going?

[Clay Barnum]

Over to Mountie headquarters where the girls just goin in. We'll go in and say we wanna get warm. See if we can't learn something worthwhile.

[Narrator]

The rear room of headquarters. Sergeant Preston tested the handcuffs of the two murderers he had captured and was now taking to Fort Selkirk for transfer to other officers. He was about to take them from the cell and Constable Harris entered from the outer office.

[Joe Carter]

Sergeant, hold up a bit, eh?

[Sergeant Preston]

What's wrong, Constable?

[Joe Carter]

Nothing, Sergeant. There's a young lady out front who insists on seeing you. She came all the way from the States for the privilege.

[Narrator]

Oh?

[Sergeant Preston]

Who is she?

[Joe Carter]

Marion McAllister. Oh, Jim, the daughter.

[Sergeant Preston]

Take over a while, eh? I'll not be long.

[Joe Carter]

All right, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

When Sergeant Preston entered the outer office, the beautiful Marian McAllister looked up and introduced herself.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Oh, hello. You must be Sergeant Preston. I'm Marion McAllister.

[Sergeant Preston]

How do you do?

[Mrs. McAllister]

The constable said King is your dog. Oh, he's wonderful. You're my friend, aren't you, King?

[Sergeant Preston]

He seldom makes friends so easily. It's the only introduction you need.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I'm glad.

[Sergeant Preston]

Constable Harris tells me you came all the way from the States to talk with me.

[Mrs. McAllister]

That's right. It's about the letter you forwarded to mother after my father died.

[Narrator]

The girl glanced at the two men who stood in the corner warming their hands over the stove.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I'd like to be sure no one overhears us while I tell you about it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, come into the next room. I don't think we'll be interrupted.

[Narrator]

The two men at the stove watched from the corner of their eyes as Preston and the girl entered the next room. The sergeant pushed the door closed behind him, but not tightly. King, following his master and the friendly girl, pushed the door open wide enough to enter. The door remained ajar. Clay Barnum and Joe Carter exchanged glances, then inched closer to the door so they could hear Preston and Marian McAllister inside. Preston, studying a piece of paper the girl had given him, was talking.

[Sergeant Preston]

This map's clear enough up to a point, I'd say. The mine was a few miles this side of 40 miles. Probably near Rocky Creek. No wonder none of the prospectors have been able to locate the place. That area is supposed to be panned out. No one's mined there all summer.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I'd like to try and locate that mine, Sergeant. I'm sure it'll be easy with this map.

[Sergeant Preston]

Not as easy as you think, Ms. McAllister. First of all, you'll not be allowed to go into the gold fields.

[Mrs. McAllister]

What?

[Sergeant Preston]

The order holds for all women. As a matter of fact, we're discouraging men from going, too. Those who've been here a few years wouldn't think of taking to the trail and the weather we're having.

[Mrs. McAllister]

You're going to turn down my request for permission to look for my father's mine so I might register it?

[Sergeant Preston]

Definitely.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Perhaps there is a law that would keep me from seeking my father's mine. But there's justice, too, which we of.

[Sergeant Preston]

The Northwest Mounted Police try to ensure.

[Mrs. McAllister]

If that's the case, then why not help me?

[Sergeant Preston]

I didn't say I wouldn't help you if I can. I was merely discouraging any plan you might have that involved your leaving Dawson and heading north.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Oh, then. Then you will do something?

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll try, but only after I return from Selkirk. I'm delivering two prisoners, and the constable.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Told me about that. I'll wait, Sergeant. But how soon will it be before you return here from Selkirk?

[Sergeant Preston]

I should be back within a week.

[Mrs. McAllister]

That's not long. Not after the journey I've made to get here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Then I'll see you on my return. I'll do everything possible to assist you, Ms. McAllister. If I can't do it personally, I'll find men who will. Men that even your father would trust. So now, if you'll pardon me, I'll get started.

[Narrator]

A few hours after Sergeant Preston had left for Fort Selkirk with his prisoners, Clay Barnum and Joe Carter sat at a corner table in a cafe, talking. They had heard the greatest part of the conversation between Preston and Marianne McAllister, and a plan had formed in their minds. The details were complete now, and the men prepared to act. Marion McAllister was greatly surprised next day when when a clean shaven and prepossessing young man came to her hotel room and introduced himself as a deputy from Sergeant Preston.

[Joe Carter]

My partner and I are always on special duty, never in uniform. That's why the sergeant told us to help you. I know he told you women Are.

[Narrator]

Carter, recalling the pertinent parts of the conversation he'd overheard between the girl and Preston, gave a great degree of authority to what he said. He outlined the supposed plans of Preston.

[Joe Carter]

And added, and because it's not in strict accordance with the written law, we'll have to stand. Sneak out of town after it's dark.

[Mrs. McAllister]

With me dressed in men's clothes, you said?

[Joe Carter]

Oh, that's right, miss. You couldn't very well wear any other kind in the weather we'll run into.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I still don't understand. Sergeant Preston was so positive when he told me yesterday that I'd not be allowed to go on the search. Why, he said the law.

[Joe Carter]

The law bows before a beautiful woman, Ms. McAllister. And don't forget, yesterday's not today. Sergeant Preston didn't realize that my partner and I would be in Dawson so soon. You'll be ready this evening, then?

[Mrs. McAllister]

Yes, about 11. I'll have my clothes bought by then. Oh, but Mr. Carter.

[Clay Barnum]

Yes?

[Mrs. McAllister]

I'm going to fulfill my father's last wishes. I'll keep the map and only I shall give the instructions where to go up to a point.

[Joe Carter]

We understand, miss. That's all right with us.

[Narrator]

That night, when the only sounds in Dawson City were heard in the rowdy cafes, Marianne McAllister, bundled in men's clothes, topped by a parker, started out on the trail that headed north. The trio had been on the trail four days. The two crooks bided their time, showing great solicitude for the young woman at all times and protecting her whenever possible from the onslaught of snow, snow and wind. They led her to the spot where her father had been found dead. Though never telling her it was they who had found him. Marion was heartened by their knowledge of the country.

[Mrs. McAllister]

It's almost as if you were reading the map. I have. If I judge rightly, we'll turn off somewhere a few miles north of here.

[Clay Barnum]

Probably towards Rocket Creek.

[Mrs. McAllister]

That's right. You knew that?

[Joe Carter]

Well, your father did a lot of prospecting around there, miss. We'd see him often.

[Clay Barnum]

This mine of his, you mind telling us where it is exactly? We must be near there now. It'll help us get you there if we know.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I don't know where it is exactly. Didn't Sergeant Preston tell you that Daddy's map was blurred and not too detailed?

[Clay Barnum]

Yes, but. Well, we thought you.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Oh, that I was holding out on him because of what Daddy said. I wasn't, I assure you.

[Joe Carter]

Yeah, sure. We better get going.

[Clay Barnum]

Mush. Mush.

[Joe Carter]

Mush.

[Narrator]

That night, as Marianne McAllister lay inside her canvas tent, wrapped in blankets in her parker. The sound of whispers awakened her from her sleep. There was a tone about them that seemed to set off an alarm in her brain. She bent forward with her ear to the tent flap and listened. Joe Cotter and Clay Barnum were ready to search Marianne McAllister's sled.

[Joe Carter]

I tell you, the mine has to be somewhere around here. I heard what Preston said when he was reading the map that day.

[Clay Barnum]

All right. I don't believe that stuff she told us about not knowing where the exact spot is. That's why I want to look through her things.

[Joe Carter]

That's a waste of time. I tell you, she has the map.

[Clay Barnum]

On her somewhere, and I'm not going.

[Mrs. McAllister]

To give it to you.

[Clay Barnum]

Well, now you.

[Joe Carter]

You heard us talking.

[Mrs. McAllister]

I did. You're not very smart, you two.

[Clay Barnum]

And you're not very smart either, Ms. McAllister. If you were, you wouldn't have busted out of your tent like you did. Come here.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Keep away from me. Come near me and hurt.

[Clay Barnum]

None of that, Shirley. What do you got there?

[Mrs. McAllister]

No.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, a gun.

[Narrator]

Huh? Give it back to me.

[Clay Barnum]

Give it to me. I'll give it to you. Shut up.

[Narrator]

Barnum grabbed the girl around the waist with his right arm and placed his left hand over her mouth.

[Clay Barnum]

She's a real wildcat, isn't Joe? Get a rope and a sled. We'll have to tie her hands and ankles.

[Narrator]

Come on.

[Joe Carter]

Hold still.

[Clay Barnum]

Easy now, miss. No one's going to hear you.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. And now, here's someone who needs no introduction. That famous teller of tall tales, your old friend, Gabby Hayes.

[Gabby Hayes]

My name might as well have been King Neptune. The time I was trying to ford a river deep in the Yukon wilderness years ago, I had my six months supplies loaded on the stubbornest donkey the world has ever knowed. I started to lead that critter across the river. Fussing a node, he reared up and that donkey dunked me like a donut. Not only that, but he stood on the bank laughing at me. Well, sir, I was maddern a wet hen. I could see this was going to be a contest of sheer muscles. So before I'd done another thing, I had a great big bowl of nourishing hot Quaker oats. Jiminy, I could feel the strength from Quaker oats making my muscles bigger and bigger. Why, I thought they'd bust right out of my shirt sleeves. Cause you know, oatmeal gives you more strength and more energy than any other Whole Grain cereal. Cause Quaker Oats is the giant of the cereal. Yes, sir. Ee, Bob. So then I got behind that stubborn donkey. I pushed him into the river with a mighty heave. He was going so fast, he must have thought he was a seahorse. And shucks, we made the rest of the trip a water. So listen, buckaroos, if you want the giant of the cereals to help you like it does, old Gabby, start tomorrow morning to pack away creamy, delicious Quaker Oats.

[Joe Carter]

Mmm.

[Gabby Hayes]

It sure tastes good. Wait till you see what good it does for ye. Remember, everything I say about Quaker Oats goes for mother's oats, too. Cause they're zackly the same.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. Sergeant Preston arrived back from Fort Selkirk that evening two days ahead of schedule. When he inquired for Marian McAllister at her hotel, the clerk gave him surprising information.

[Gabby Hayes]

She checked out, Sergeant, four days ago.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, going back to the States, eh?

[Gabby Hayes]

No, I'm sure she hasn't. She bought herself some men's clothes, trail stuff, and took off with Joe Carter and Clay Barham.

[Clay Barnum]

I saw him leave.

[Sergeant Preston]

Joe Carter was here? What'd he do? What'd he tell her?

[Clay Barnum]

I have no idea. All I know is what I told.

[Gabby Hayes]

You just four nights ago. She checked out and went north. I couldn't figure how she expected it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hey, Sergeant, I can't wait. Pete. Thanks for the information.

[Narrator]

Less than an hour later, Sergeant Preston with his huskies and sled ready, prepared to leave headquarters. King stood beside him as he spoke to Constable Harris.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's only one place they'd head, and that's up toward Rocky Creek, where her father's mine must be located.

[Joe Carter]

I don't understand. Why would she leave with them if.

[Narrator]

You told her to remain here?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's what I intend to find out. Going to keep on the trail. I catch up with him. King up front. Boy.

[Narrator]

Jim McAllister's map was as puzzling to Clay Barnum and Joe Carter as it had been to Marian McAllister and her mother. They'd found it in the pocket of the girl's parker. For three days, they trudged the banks of Rocky Creek, keeping a very close watch on the girl at all times and trying to find some trace of the diggings. Then, on the afternoon of the third day, the plotters found a rock ledge with stakes set tight in the frozen ground beneath it. Written upon the stakes was the information that this was the property of Jim McAllister.

[Clay Barnum]

Sure, this is it. Look at that pane of gold over there. We're going to be rich.

[Joe Carter]

Yeah. Millionaires, Clay. Both of us.

[Clay Barnum]

Let's get back to camp, make up a claim for this place.

[Joe Carter]

Let's find a spot where we can get rid of that. Marion, you coming?

[Narrator]

Back in their camp, far off the beaten trail, Barnum and Carter gathered their mining tools together, ready to gather gold samples for a say back in town.

[Joe Carter]

Hey, listen.

[Narrator]

Then a bleak and frightened look covered their faces as they heard the barking of huskies coming near to where their tent stood.

[Clay Barnum]

Listen. Huskies. Quick, grab the girl. We gotta get her away from here.

[Narrator]

Carter and Barnum entered the tent, found and gagged Marion McAllister and carried her to a place behind one of the loaded sleds.

[Joe Carter]

He'll find her, whoever he is.

[Clay Barnum]

It's Preston.

[Joe Carter]

What?

[Clay Barnum]

I can make him out. Now. Come on back in front of the tent.

[Narrator]

Preston.

[Joe Carter]

That means we'll have to kill him. He's the only one who knows about this.

[Clay Barnum]

I'll have your gun ready. But play straight when he gets here. I'm ready too.

[Narrator]

Sergeant. Preston wasted no time as his sled came to a halt and he walked to where Carter and Barnum waited.

[Sergeant Preston]

The two of you, eh, Carter? Marion McAllister left Dawson City with you four nights ago. Where is she?

[Joe Carter]

Marion McAllister?

[Narrator]

Who's she?

[Sergeant Preston]

None of that, Carter. You saw her at the hotel and. Yes, King, what is it?

[Narrator]

King, whose nose had been high in the air sniffing, was struck by the pleasant aroma somewhere in the vicinity. It was the perfume of the girl who'd become his friend at headquarters a few days before. The scent was faint, but suddenly strong enough to follow. He leaped joyfully through the snow and headed for the sled that screened Marian McAllister.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thunder. King. She's there. I'm coming, boy.

[Joe Carter]

No, you're not. You're standing right where you are, Preston. He's alive, if that's what you want to know. Now stand there.

[Clay Barnum]

Move an inch and we'll shoot.

[Joe Carter]

We'll shoot anyway.

[Narrator]

Oh, will you? Hey, Sergeant. Preston turned and grabbed Carter's gun arm. Before the surprise crook could shoot, he spun Carter in front of him, shielding himself from Barnum's gun at the same time bending the gun arm of Cotter.

[Clay Barnum]

Get him, Clay.

[Joe Carter]

Shoot him.

[Clay Barnum]

Well, get out of the way. You're blocking him. And it got the toy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hold him, King.

[Narrator]

King's leap sent Barnum off balance. Now the dog's teeth sunk into the would be killer's arm. And Barnum, crying out in pain, dropped his gun.

[Clay Barnum]

My arm let go. But I.

[Narrator]

That's it, King.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll concentrate on you. Carter. Get around here. That's it. Throw a gun, will you? All right, King, take over now. Thanks, boy.

[Clay Barnum]

My arm. Preston, go.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll handcuff you while I'm untying Ms. McAllister. There. All right, King. Got him, boy.

[Narrator]

Preston went to the spot where the crooks had placed the girl. Quickly he loosened the ropes that bound her and helped her to her feet.

[Sergeant Preston]

How do you feel, Miss McAllister?

[Mrs. McAllister]

Oh, cold. Terribly cold. But I was too afraid to realize it until now, Sergeant, that they were going to kill me.

[Sergeant Preston]

But they didn't. I'll never kill or threaten anyone again.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Sergeant, I've got so much to tell you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do that later, please. Right now, suppose you go into the tent and mourn yourself. Meanwhile, I'll get these men ready for the trip back to Dawson.

[Narrator]

Weston tied the two crooks hand and foot and placed them on his sled. Then he retraced their footsteps through the snow to the spot where they'd found the mine and noted its position for filing by the dead man's daughter. Then he returned to the tent. King, wagging his tail, waited with a girl now surprisingly recovered from her ordeal.

[Mrs. McAllister]

Sergeant, you found it, didn't you? The mine, I mean.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, Ms. McAllister. And I'm glad I found you. You'll be able to file your claim now, arrange for having it worked and get back to your mother in the States.

[Mrs. McAllister]

What? Is that the only reason you're glad you found me?

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm afraid it will have to be. Ms. McAllister, this is one time I wish it could be otherwise. But the code of the Northwest Mounted Police says we must accomplish our mission and report for a new assignment. We finish by getting our man. In this instance, two of them. And when I get them back to Dawson and into a cell, this case will be close.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure.

[Marion McAllister]

This is your friend Angel Mima suggesting for breakfast, for lunch or for supper, serve Aunt Jemima pancakes. Yes, folks, only Aunt Jemima pancake mix gives you Old south goodness and the lightest pancakes ever. For a wonderful supper tonight just add milk to Aunt Jemima pancake or buckwheat mix and bake golden, fluffy pancakes. For breakfast, for lunch or for supper, serve Aunt Jemima pancakes.

[Narrator]

Be careful. Help stop accidents. Remember, fellas and girls, you. Yes, you yourselves can help stop accidents. Most accidents are due to just plain carelessness. Use your old bean. When you're playing out of doors, don't dash out into the street after a ball. Be careful when you cross streets. And don't be a smart aleck on your bike or ride in the dark without lights. Don't take chances, not even a little chance. Be extra careful. And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty, Inspector.

[Clay Barnum]

There's been a shooting, Sergeant. Get over to the Palace Hotel as soon as you can.

[Sergeant Preston]

Any details?

[Clay Barnum]

Sir, It's Luke Devlin who's been shot and we suspect that his own gang has turned against him. You'll be dealing with the worst roughnecks in the territory and I must warn you to watch your step.

[Narrator]

Are the Inspector's suspicions correct? Has the ruthless Devlin gang turned on its leader and taken the law into its own hands? If this is the case, then the sergeant is faced with one of the most difficult assignments. Don't miss the 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 Enterprises, directed by Fred Flowerday 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 Sunday at this same time by Quaker Oats, the Giant of the Cereals. This is Giant Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Oats, the Giant of the Cereals. So long. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Sergeant Preston]

SA.

[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 sl copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

Ra.