Night Chase – Tales of the Texas Rangers (01-27-52)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Night Chase – Tales of the Texas Rangers
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: January 27, 1952
Release Date: May 21, 2025

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Introduction to the Episode

In this captivating episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes presents "Night Chase," an enthralling tale from the archives of the Texas Rangers. Digitally restored to enhance its original charm, this episode immerses listeners in a suspense-filled narrative of pursuit, investigation, and justice set against the rugged backdrop of Texas.

Main Story: Night Chase – Plot Summary

Setting the Scene ([03:07] - [16:04])

The episode opens with Ranger Jace Pearson, portrayed by Joel McCray, and his partner Clay Morgan diving into a reenactment of a historical case titled "Night Chase." The story is set on the evening of May 5, 1937, in Durham, Texas, where Rancher Jim Fuller and his wife Susan encounter suspicious men near their property.

• Initial Suspicion ([03:19] - [05:04])

  Jim Fuller notices men with flashlights tampering with his property, suspecting cattle rustling. Tensions rise as Jim decides to confront the intruders while Susan calls the sheriff for assistance.

• Sheriff’s Involvement and Ranger Deployment ([05:04] - [07:02])

  Jim alerts the sheriff, who then summons the Texas Rangers, Pearson and Morgan, to assist in the pursuit. The Rangers set up a roadblock on Farm Road 48, anticipating the rustlers' escape route.

The Chase Unfolds ([07:02] - [14:06])

As the rustlers attempt to flee, a high-speed chase ensues with Rangers utilizing mounted horses and responding swiftly to maneuver through the challenging terrain.

• Engagement and Escalation ([07:09] - [12:27])

  The pursuit intensifies when Rangers manage to disable the rustlers' vehicle, leading to a confrontation that results in one rustler being mortally wounded. The Rangers follow the tracks to a secluded shack, suspecting the presence of the second rustler.

• Search and Discovery ([12:27] - [14:06])

  Investigating the shack, Ranger Morgan discovers the lifeless body of the Mexican accomplice, confirming the severity of the crime and intensifying the Rangers' resolve to apprehend the perpetrators.

Investigation Deepens ([14:06] - [22:58])

The narrative delves into the meticulous investigation process undertaken by the Rangers.

• Tracing the Truck and Identifying Suspects ([16:04] - [18:19])

  Laboratory work reveals the truck's ownership linking to Harry Crowley, a tenant rancher. The Rangers visit Crowley’s ranch, where tensions escalate as they interrogate Harry’s wife, Ruth Crowley, uncovering discrepancies in her testimony.

• Suspicions and Interrogations ([18:19] - [22:58])

  Suspicion mounts as Rangers Clay Morgan and Jace Pearson observe Ruth leaving her home and later confront her brother, Hal Holden. The interrogation reveals inconsistencies, particularly regarding firearm evidence found at Holden's residence, tightening the case against him.

Climactic Confrontation ([22:58] - [26:37])

In a dramatic turn, Ranger Morgan confronts Hal Holden, leading to a tense standoff where Holden's deceit unravels.

• Evidence and Arrest ([26:37] - [26:55])

  The discovery of bullet casings and Holden's possession of a weapon links him directly to the crimes. Holden's attempts to resist are futile as the Rangers secure his apprehension, culminating in justice served.

Key Discussions and Insights

• Authentic Reenactment: The episode stays true to the original 1952 broadcast, offering listeners a genuine glimpse into historical law enforcement storytelling. The meticulous digital restoration enhances audio clarity, making the narrative more immersive.

• Character Portrayals: Joel McCray’s portrayal of Ranger Jace Pearson brings depth and realism to the character, while supporting actors add authenticity to the unfolding drama.

• Narrative Techniques: The use of dialog, sound effects, and suspenseful pacing effectively captures the tension and urgency of a night chase, keeping listeners engaged throughout.

Resolution of the Case ([26:37] - [28:25])

The episode concludes with the legal aftermath of the chase.

• Trial and Sentencing ([28:06] - [28:25])

  Al Holden pleads guilty to murder and cattle theft, receiving a life sentence at Huntsville Penitentiary. Ruth Crowley is sentenced to two years for obstructing justice, highlighting the Rangers' relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

Notable Quotes

• Jim Fuller on Suspecting Rustlers ([04:32]):

  “I got prettier ones right here in Texas.”
  — Jim Fuller ([04:32])

• Ranger Morgan on the Final Confrontation ([26:17]):

  “It won't be too hard. Not if Ranger Morgan finds the right piece of cotton waste in the other room.”
  — Clay Morgan ([26:17])

• Susan Fuller’s Foreboding Insight ([18:10]):

  “I knew it was gonna happen. I knew it all along.”
  — Susan Fuller ([17:55])

Conclusion

"Night Chase" offers a riveting journey through a classic Texas Ranger tale, blending historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling. The episode not only entertains but also honors the legacy of the Texas Rangers, showcasing their pivotal role in maintaining law and order in the Wild West. For fans of Western dramas and true crime narratives, this episode is a must-listen, providing both nostalgia and engaging content.

Additional Information:

• Cast:

  • Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson
  • Supporting actors include Tony Barrett, Whitfield Connor, Jeanette Nolan, Herb Ellis, and Betty Lou Gerson.

• Production:

  • Transcription and adaptation by Charles E. Israel
  • Produced and directed by Stacy Keats
  • Technical advisor: Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez

• Future Episodes:

  The podcast promises more authentic reenactments from the Texas Rangers' files, continuing to deliver high-quality Western narratives.

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Listen to "Night Chase" and journey back to the untamed frontiers where courage and justice prevail.

Transcript

[Andrew Rines]

Perdio sutra bajo redujeron susoras presente su solicitud Oy mismo con del Departamento de Emplude Oregon Es gratis basil Yai servicios de interpretacion dis ponivles llame al uno ocho siete, siete tres cuatro cinco tres cuatro ocho cuatro perio sutra bajo redujeron susoras ponderan calificar para los beneficios del segro de desempleo de Oregon es gratis applicar sin costos nitari vas paroptender beneficios hidden ilo servicios de interpretacion estandis ponibiles presentar su solicitud es fazil yame al uno ocho Siete, siete tres cuatro cinco tresiete tres cuatro cinco tres. Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and this episode of OTRWesterns.com is brought to you by. Now let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be Tales of the Texas Rangers. Original Air date is January 27, 1952 and the title is Night Chase. Hope you enjoy and again, thanks for listening.

[Joel McCray]

Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Names, dates and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record.

[Announcer]

Later this evening, great entertainment continues on the NBC Radio Network with such stellar programs as the Big show, the Phil Harris, Alice Fay Show, Theater Guild on the air and the $64 question. Immediately following Tales of the Texas Rangers, you will hear the Big show with Tallulah Bankhead and all of her guest stars. Today, listen for Vera Lynn, Jack Carson, James Barton, Tony Bavar and Bob and Ray, along with Meredith Wilson and the Big Show Chorus and orchestra. The big show brings 90 minutes of enjoyable listening. And then Phil Harris and Alice Fay step before the NBC microphones to bring you mirth and music in their own inimitable manner. Later, it's Theater Guild on the air with Dorothy McGuire, David Niven and Roddy McDowell in the theater Guild presentation of the Thief. And then too, you'll be happily entertained by Jack Parr as he asks the $64 question. So keep tuned here for continuous great entertainment. And now back to Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Joel McCray]

And now, from the Files of the Texas Rangers, the Case called Night chase.

[Jim Fuller]

It is 9:20 on the evening of May 5, 1937. Sixteen miles north of Durham, Texas. Rancher Jim Fuller and his wife Susan are driving up the dirt road which leads to their ranch house. Sure, there's a long haul into town and back, but I reckon the movie was worth.

[Susan Fuller]

Was a good movie, wasn't it?

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah.

[Susan Fuller]

The girl is so pretty too.

[Jim Fuller]

We got prettier ones right here in Texas.

[Susan Fuller]

Oh, what's an old fella like you know about pretty girl?

[Jim Fuller]

I did pick you out, didn't I?

[Susan Fuller]

Why didn't Susan?

[Jim Fuller]

If it wasn't to blame Doc in his car, I'd say he was blushing.

[Susan Fuller]

Well, maybe I am. But one thing, I ain't gonna sit here all night letting you tease me. Let's get on into the house.

[Jim Fuller]

You go in ahead, honey. I'm gonna take a walk down to barn. Wanna take a look at that mare's leg?

[Susan Fuller]

Well, don't be long, Jim. I'll have some hot cocoa fixed on me. Goodbye.

[Jim Fuller]

Susan. Come here quick.

[Susan Fuller]

What? What's wrong down there?

[Jim Fuller]

Saw these range.

[Susan Fuller]

Why? It looks like some men with flashlights.

[Jim Fuller]

What are they doing?

[Clay Morgan]

Yep, they got a truck with him.

[Jim Fuller]

Must have broke down the fence and backed it in.

[Susan Fuller]

Jim, ain't that where you got the heifers and tires?

[Jim Fuller]

It sure is. I'll bet anything them fellas are fixing to rustle my cabs.

[Susan Fuller]

Jim, where are you going?

[Jim Fuller]

I'm gonna get my shotgun. Go down there after him.

[Susan Fuller]

Jim.

[Clay Morgan]

Wait.

[Susan Fuller]

If those men are rustlers, they probably got guns too. Now why don't you phone the sheriff?

[Jim Fuller]

Let him handle it. Well, all right, all right. Come on. They had them calves branded A4 now Rs. Get him. I'll never be able to identify them.

[Susan Fuller]

Maybe they won't get away.

[Jim Fuller]

You stay out here in the porch, honey. Keep an eye on them while I call the sheriff. They start to take off. Now you sing out.

[Susan Fuller]

All right, Jim.

[Jim Fuller]

Operator, you get me the sheriff, quick. They still out there, Susan?

[Susan Fuller]

I only see one flashlight now, I think.

[Jim Fuller]

Hello, Sheriff, this is Jim Fuller. I got a restless in my place. Yeah, down at the beginning of my east rain. Jim. Just a minute, Sheriff. What is it, honey?

[Susan Fuller]

They just started off.

[Jim Fuller]

They're taking off now, Sheriff. Could you see which way they headed?

[Clay Morgan]

Susan?

[Susan Fuller]

Looks like they might be making for that road. Runs along the other end of the.

[Jim Fuller]

Range moving toward Farm Road 48 chef. Yeah, I know you will. I sure hope you get them. The sheriff alerted his deputies for pursuit of the rustlers and requested assistance from the Texas Rangers Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan, returning from the case, were contacted by radio and informed that the sheriff had blockaded the south end of Farm Road 48. They were to set up a checkpoint on Farm Road 48, 15 miles to the north. Shots, knives and players are all set, Jase.

[Clay Morgan]

Good, Clay.

[Jim Fuller]

Pretty good spot for a roadblock. Curve on one end, that hill on the other. Yeah, sounds like our first customer coming now.

[Clay Morgan]

Passenger car. Couldn't be our boys. Wave him through, will you, Clay?

[Jim Fuller]

All right, go ahead.

[Clay Morgan]

You don't figure they could have cut.

[Jim Fuller]

Off on another side road, do you, Jason?

[Clay Morgan]

The sheriff said there was no turn off between here and the ranch. Clay.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. Truck all right? Coming pretty fast.

[Clay Morgan]

Just flipped off their lights. Must be them. They don't stop trying to get their tires.

[Jim Fuller]

They're not gonna stop. Give it to them.

[Clay Morgan]

Come on, let's get out.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. Could have sworn we hit a back tire.

[Clay Morgan]

Might have, but they got dual wheels on the rear.

[Jim Fuller]

Gonna be tough working up any speed with the horse trailer on the back.

[Clay Morgan]

Give her all she's got. I'll get on the radio. Unit 10 to KTXA.

[Jim Fuller]

KTX 80, unit 10. Go ahead, unit 10.

[Clay Morgan]

Subjects failed to halt at roadblock. They're proceeding north on Farm Road. 4 8. Unit 10 pursuing. We'll notify all units. 10, 4, unit 10. Clear.

[Jim Fuller]

I think we're gaining some, Jace.

[Clay Morgan]

Sounds like they think so, too. Let me get that rifle.

[Jim Fuller]

Jace, you all right? Ye guess so.

[Clay Morgan]

Few scratches from the glass. Sure made a mess of the windshield with that one.

[Jim Fuller]

Hope their aim doesn't get any better.

[Clay Morgan]

I'll see if I can spoil it.

[Jim Fuller]

See, you did it. You got that other back tire, J. Come on over. Hold it.

[Clay Morgan]

Play.

[Jim Fuller]

There they go. Climbing out of the cabin. Watch yourself. Yeah.

[Clay Morgan]

They're splitting up, Jace.

[Jim Fuller]

Take the one across the road. I'll get the driver. Hey, you. Get him. Jace.

[Clay Morgan]

This one's dead. How'd you make out?

[Jim Fuller]

Come on over. I think I lost him, Case. He went down to that scrub.

[Clay Morgan]

He could have headed anywhere from there.

[Jim Fuller]

Can't be too far away.

[Clay Morgan]

You keep after him. I'll go back, unload the horses. Catch up with you in a few minutes. Clary.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, it is over.

[Clay Morgan]

Here's your horse.

[Jim Fuller]

Thanks.

[Clay Morgan]

How you making out?

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, some tracks. Not very clear. Ground's too rocky.

[Clay Morgan]

When I could follow with my flash coming down here, he headed along the bottom of this gully. I lost the trail just before I got to you.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, this rocky ground makes night trailing rough.

[Clay Morgan]

Wait a minute.

[Jim Fuller]

What is it, Jason? Over there.

[Clay Morgan]

That shack?

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. No lights. Could be worth taking a look.

[Clay Morgan]

Let's go. Yeah, come.

[Jim Fuller]

Come on. If he's not around there, chances are we won't get him tonight.

[Clay Morgan]

No, but maybe whoever lives in the shack heard him. Goodbye. Might get a line on his direction.

[Jim Fuller]

What if we don't?

[Clay Morgan]

Then we go back and see what we can find out about the dead man. Truck ought to tell us something, too.

[Jim Fuller]

Hey, did you hear the way those calves were blowing?

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Some of them got hurt when the truck turned over. Poor devils. Oh, bull sharky.

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, Dan. Oh, boy. Oh, not a sound. Think it could be inside, Jeff?

[Clay Morgan]

It could be. Stay here and cover me while I go up to the door.

[Jim Fuller]

Sure.

[Clay Morgan]

Texas Rangers. You here alone?

[Jim Fuller]

See? See, I'm alone. You forgive. I'm not dressed, but I was asleep.

[Clay Morgan]

We'd like to come in for a few minutes if you don't mind.

[Jim Fuller]

Come in, please.

[Clay Morgan]

It's all right, Clay. Come on.

[Jim Fuller]

I just make the light in the lantern, huh? That's better. No.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. You've been here all evening?

[Jim Fuller]

For six.

[Clay Morgan]

Yes, I'm here.

[Jim Fuller]

This is my house. Tonight I'm tired and I, I. I go to sleep early.

[Clay Morgan]

We're looking for a man, or you think he might have come this way?

[Jim Fuller]

A man? Well, what does he look like, sir?

[Clay Morgan]

We don't know yet. But he stole some cattle from a ranch down a piece.

[Jim Fuller]

Must be there.

[Clay Morgan]

Did you see anybody pass here tonight?

[Jim Fuller]

No. No, nobody. Any noises outside? Noises? No, nobody but you.

[Clay Morgan]

All right, come on, Craig.

[Jim Fuller]

You going to go now?

[Clay Morgan]

We'll be back in the morning to pick up our man's trail. Better keep your door locked tonight.

[Jim Fuller]

Adios.

[Clay Morgan]

Adios.

[Jim Fuller]

You can come up now. They're gone, senor. You did real good, Jackie. I'm proud of you. I do just what you tell me because I'm so scared. Yeah, right to be. You just said one word. I'd have blown your head off. Oh, no, no, no, no. You. You heard me. I told them that. You told him that. Now you go, please. They. They come back tomorrow. Yeah.

[Clay Morgan]

And you're gonna forget you ever saw me.

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, serious? Yes. I don't tell them. I. I forget everything.

[Clay Morgan]

Up in your shirt.

[Jim Fuller]

Just right. You're going to forget everything. Oh.

[Clay Morgan]

Oh, boy. How do you r. Evening.

[Jim Fuller]

My name's Jim Fuller. Sheriff asked me to tell you he went to fetch J.P. you the man.

[Clay Morgan]

Whose cattle were stolen?

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. I got most of them rounded up again, though, except for one head shoot because he was hurt too bad. You didn't touch anything on the truck, did you? No. No. Highway patrol wouldn't let nobody touch nothing. Want to start with the dead man, Jace?

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Might as well check the truck first. As long as we're up here. We'll see you later, Mr. Fuller.

[Jim Fuller]

You sure?

[Clay Morgan]

Ain't you miss anything funny about the truck thing?

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. No license plates.

[Clay Morgan]

Want to check the chassis number? I'll try the motor. Good.

[Jim Fuller]

A couple of shells with an automatic on the ground.

[Clay Morgan]

That'll be some help. How about the chassis number?

[Jim Fuller]

Field plate's been taken off.

[Clay Morgan]

I figured it would be. Come here and take a look.

[Jim Fuller]

What'd you find? Motor number chiseled off. Sure went to a lot of trouble.

[Clay Morgan]

Get a lab crew up here. Have them work it over. Do you think they'll be able to.

[Jim Fuller]

Bring out the number with acid?

[Clay Morgan]

Either that or by heating it hot enough so the number shows. Sometimes that works better.

[Jim Fuller]

Better go see if the dead man is any kind of identification.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah, but I got a hunch he won't.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, they must have planned this pretty careful.

[Clay Morgan]

And for a long time. Motor number wasn't taken off yesterday. Bodies over at the left cl.

[Jim Fuller]

This one rustler won't try a second job.

[Clay Morgan]

Like to make sure his partner won't either.

[Jim Fuller]

Here's his gun. Old one.38 coat. Revolver.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. That means the other man had the automatic. Check his pockets, Clay. I'll hold the light.

[Jim Fuller]

All right. Little bit of change. Cigarette? Yeah. Looks like your hunch was right, Jace.

[Clay Morgan]

Nothing, huh?

[Jim Fuller]

What's our next step? We're radio for the lab crew.

[Clay Morgan]

Then as soon as it's light, we'll head back to that gully and start tracking again. At dawn, we retraced our steps to the night before. Even in daylight, the rocky terrain made it difficult to pick up a trail. He split up, began crisscrossing the area. Forty minutes later, Clay called me.

[Jim Fuller]

Hey, Jay.

[Clay Morgan]

What'd you find, Clay?

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, Jake. Pretty clear one.

[Clay Morgan]

Line them up. Look like they lead from any place special.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, the Mexican tracks.

[Clay Morgan]

It's right over there. Have another talk with him. Get up, Charlie. Come on.

[Jim Fuller]

You figure Rustler could have been there sometime last night as well.

[Clay Morgan]

By the front door. He might have been pretty thirsty from running. Could be stopped for a drink.

[Jim Fuller]

Might be some fingerprints handy if you did.

[Clay Morgan]

That's what I'm hoping.

[Jim Fuller]

Doesn't look like the Mexican's awake yet. Maybe he's still inside, scared to come out.

[Clay Morgan]

Oh. Oh, Sharky.

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, boy.

[Clay Morgan]

Through that window.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah. Funny he'd have a lantern burning in broad daylight.

[Clay Morgan]

And even funnier, he Let it smoke that way. Come on.

[Jim Fuller]

He might be out somewhere.

[Clay Morgan]

He wouldn't leave that lantern burning. Come on, let's go in.

[Jim Fuller]

Jeez. In the corner.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Our Mexican friend shot to there.

[Joel McCray]

In just a moment, we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCrae as Jace Pearson.

[Announcer]

Most of us know that the regular purchase of United States defense bonds is the safest and surest way to save. But as we begin this new year, it's a good time to check up and ask. Are you buying as many defense bonds as you should? Regularly set up a plan for buying bonds right through the year. That's the practical way to make sure that you actually do buy bonds instead of just thinking about it. One way is to join the payroll savings plan where you work. Ask your employer to set aside a certain sum from each paycheck and invest it in defense bonds for you. If you're not on a payroll, join the bond a month plan as your bank. Ask your bank to charge a certain amount against your checking account each month. They'll use that amount to purchase bonds which will be sent to you regularly. No matter what plan you use, be sure to buy defense bonds systematically. That's the sure sensible way to save, and it benefits both you and your country. And now back to the Texas Rangers.

[Joel McCray]

We can continue now with tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story Night Chase.

[Clay Morgan]

An automatic shell on the floor of the shack indicated that the rustler we were after had shot the Mexican. We followed the killer's tracks to the main highway four miles north where they ended. Then we went back to town. A lab crew was able to bring out the motor number on the truck by heat process. By midnight morning, we traced ownership of the truck to Harry Crowley, a tenant rancher whose place was near Fillmore, 30 miles east of the crime. Shortly before noon, we were approaching the Crowley Ranch gate.

[Jim Fuller]

Huh. You're still thinking about the Mexican, aren't you?

[Clay Morgan]

Huh?

[Jim Fuller]

Well, it was something.

[Clay Morgan]

Couldn't be helped. Maybe not.

[Jim Fuller]

You really think our man was hiding in the closet the whole time we were there?

[Clay Morgan]

Must have been. There's no other reason why he'd shoot him. Man running away doesn't stop off in a lonely shack to commit murder just to pass the time.

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, well, you could be right. But if he was there, that'd make the dead man an awful good actor.

[Clay Morgan]

Probably thought it was the only way to save his life.

[Jim Fuller]

Too bad he was so convincing. Here's the Crowley Ranch, Jason.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Sure hope we find something here. This is one killer I Want to settle with personally and soon.

[Jim Fuller]

Well, we can be pretty sure this Crowley was one of the two wrestlers.

[Clay Morgan]

To find out if he's the killer or the one I got. Here comes somebody. Watch it. Yeah, this is Crowley. Yeah, we're Texas Rangers. We'd like to talk to you. Want to come in? Give me that photo, Clay.

[Jim Fuller]

Thanks.

[Clay Morgan]

Did you ever see this man before?

[Susan Fuller]

That's my husband. What happened to him?

[Clay Morgan]

I'm afraid I got bad news for you, ma' am. Your husband was caught rustling cattle last night. He was killed.

[Jim Fuller]

Killed?

[Clay Morgan]

I'm sorry, ma' am.

[Susan Fuller]

I knew it was gonna happen. I knew it all along.

[Clay Morgan]

Maybe you better sit down, ma' am.

[Susan Fuller]

I don't want to sit down. Kept telling Harry, you got a ranch and a wife. You gotta take care of us both. Not him. Had to keep thinking up big ideas to make easy money. Now he's got just what I told him.

[Clay Morgan]

Kid, how long was your husband mixed up in cattle rustling?

[Susan Fuller]

How would I know? He never told me nothing. Always away from the ranch. Leaving all the work for me.

[Clay Morgan]

We're looking for another man who was with him last night. Do you know of any people he went around with?

[Jim Fuller]

No.

[Clay Morgan]

Didn't he ever bring friends out here to the ranch?

[Susan Fuller]

Him? He was hardly ever here self when he was. Just spend his time jawing about all the big things he was going to do. He was going to be rich, Harry. Was him rich.

[Clay Morgan]

All right, ma' am, we'll be going now. We'd appreciate it if you'd stay here. We'll send somebody around to pick you up this afternoon.

[Susan Fuller]

Pick me up what, sir?

[Clay Morgan]

Have to go over to Durham and identify your husband's body. By the way, ma' am, you have a phone here?

[Susan Fuller]

Phone? We can't afford no phone.

[Clay Morgan]

Thanks, ma' am.

[Jim Fuller]

There's something fishy about this, Jace.

[Clay Morgan]

She didn't seem at all surprised when.

[Jim Fuller]

We said her husband was dead.

[Clay Morgan]

I know. Did you notice her eyes? Red and swollen, like she'd been crying for hours.

[Jim Fuller]

And she already knew about her husband being dead.

[Clay Morgan]

Could be only one man who could have told her our killer.

[Jim Fuller]

Well, suppose she does know something she didn't tell us. How do we find out?

[Clay Morgan]

Now she has some connection with Crowley's partner. She'll want to tell him we're on his trail.

[Jim Fuller]

There's no phone in the house. You'd have to use that jalopy over there to get to him.

[Clay Morgan]

Pull over that hill, Clay. Or we can watch the house without being seen. She goes somewhere, we're going to Be right behind her. Our hunch paid off. Twenty minutes later, Mrs. Crowley left the house and drove to town. We followed. She stopped at the hardware store and went in. When she came out again, a man walked with her to the car, talking urgently. Then he went back into the store. We let Mrs. Crowley drive a little way down the street before we told her to pull over to the curb.

[Jim Fuller]

What you want now?

[Clay Morgan]

Got your engine, ma' am? I thought we told you to stay home.

[Susan Fuller]

I wanted to come in and tell my brother about Harry.

[Jim Fuller]

That's your brother you were talking to outside the hardware store?

[Susan Fuller]

Yeah.

[Clay Morgan]

We'll go have a talk with him. You stay right here, ma' am. And this time, do what we say.

[Jim Fuller]

We might be onto something, chief.

[Clay Morgan]

Maybe. Only got suspicions to go on so far. We gotta have more than that.

[Jim Fuller]

Be with you in a second, Ranger. As soon as I get this can of paint out. Yeah, yeah. What can I do for you?

[Clay Morgan]

I'm Ranger Pearson. This is Ranger Morgan.

[Jim Fuller]

Glad to know your Rangers. My name's Holden. Hal Holden.

[Clay Morgan]

Your sister told us she broke the news to you about her husband.

[Jim Fuller]

How did you.

[Clay Morgan]

You started to say something, Mr. Holden?

[Jim Fuller]

No, no, I was just surprised. Ruth only left here a couple of minutes ago. Awful thing about Harry. Terrible.

[Clay Morgan]

You know anybody Harry was running around with? Somebody who could have been his partner on this job?

[Jim Fuller]

Partner? No.

[Clay Morgan]

Well, can you give us the names of any of his friends?

[Jim Fuller]

I'd like to help, Ranger, but I don't reckon I know of anybody Harry ran with.

[Clay Morgan]

I see. Mind telling us where you were last night, Mr. Holden?

[Jim Fuller]

You are hard. Look, Ranger, you think I was mixed up in this?

[Clay Morgan]

That's just a routine question. Where were you?

[Jim Fuller]

After the ranch. Whole evening. Any special reason? You were there the whole evening? Well, sure. I lived there. Did my sister tell you that?

[Clay Morgan]

Mr. Holden, do you have a gun?

[Jim Fuller]

No, I never have owned one. Lots of pretty guns in that rack over there. Seems like a man who sells guns would have one for himself. Yeah, you'd think so, wouldn't you? Tell you the truth, I've always been a little scared of guns.

[Clay Morgan]

Thanks, Mr. Holden. We might drop back a little later on.

[Jim Fuller]

Anytime at all, Rangers. Anytime.

[Clay Morgan]

How about it, Clay? You look like the one you chased into the gully last night.

[Jim Fuller]

I'd like to say it was for sure. It's the same build, if you know how dark it was.

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah.

[Jim Fuller]

If he's our man, Jace, he's gonna be tough to crack.

[Clay Morgan]

I know. With his sister to bear him out, he's got a pretty good alibi.

[Jim Fuller]

The thing we have to do is find the gun he used.

[Clay Morgan]

Even if we do, we still have to tie Holden to it.

[Jim Fuller]

You reckon we better have a look through the Crowley ranch house?

[Clay Morgan]

Might turn up something. We'll have Mrs. Crowley take us through.

[Jim Fuller]

Can I go now?

[Clay Morgan]

Sorry to keep you waiting, ma' am. Better start back the ranch now.

[Susan Fuller]

I still got some things to do in town.

[Clay Morgan]

Well, they'll have to wait. You want to search your home? Be better if you're there.

[Susan Fuller]

You can't do that.

[Clay Morgan]

We could get a warrant, save time if you gave us permission.

[Susan Fuller]

All right, you got permission.

[Clay Morgan]

Thanks, ma' am. You drive ahead. And remember, we'll be right behind you.

[Susan Fuller]

Wasting your time. Rangers ain't gonna find a sting in my brother's room.

[Clay Morgan]

Maybe we'll agree with you, ma' am, after we're through looking.

[Jim Fuller]

Yay. Found this in the wastebasket next to the desk.

[Clay Morgan]

Empty cartridge box? Yeah.

[Jim Fuller]

Same caliber as the ones we found last night.

[Clay Morgan]

Mrs. Crowley, have you any idea how this got in your brother's room?

[Susan Fuller]

Must have belonged to my husband.

[Clay Morgan]

Your husband had a revolver,38 caliber. Cold shells in this box were made for a.32 automatic. Whose were they, ma' am?

[Susan Fuller]

Black.

[Jim Fuller]

I don't know.

[Clay Morgan]

Your brother said he spent last night here. Did he?

[Susan Fuller]

He was here the whole night.

[Clay Morgan]

I kind of thought you might remember. He wasn't here. It could save you a prison term.

[Jim Fuller]

Prison?

[Susan Fuller]

What are you talking about?

[Clay Morgan]

If your brother is the man we want, you're helping him. You could go to jail for obstructing justice.

[Susan Fuller]

I got nothing to say. My brother was here at the ranch all last night.

[Clay Morgan]

Come on.

[Susan Fuller]

Ms. Crowley, why are you taking me.

[Clay Morgan]

Down to the constable's office?

[Susan Fuller]

You can't arrest me.

[Clay Morgan]

We're not arresting you, ma' am. We'll have to have another talk with your brother. And while we do, we just want to be sure where you are.

[Jim Fuller]

Howdy, Rangers. Didn't expect to see you back so soon.

[Clay Morgan]

We didn't expect to be back so soon.

[Jim Fuller]

Picked up any leads in that partner Harry's you were looking for?

[Clay Morgan]

I think so.

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, you know who he is?

[Clay Morgan]

We got a pretty good idea.

[Jim Fuller]

Well, I'm right glad to hear people like that. They all be put away as soon as you can lay a hand on them.

[Clay Morgan]

That's just the way we feel about it, Mr. Holden.

[Jim Fuller]

Is there anything I can do to you, Ranger?

[Clay Morgan]

We'd like to take a look at the guns you've got in that rack over there.

[Jim Fuller]

Guns? Why, sure. Come on over. Are you interested in buying one.

[Clay Morgan]

Just looking. Did I see that one? This raffle here, the.32 automatic above it.

[Jim Fuller]

Oh, that one, yeah. Of course, I don't know too much about guns, but people who do know tell me this one's a honey. Here you are, Ranger.

[Clay Morgan]

Cleaned and oiled recently, hasn't it?

[Jim Fuller]

We just got it from the factory a few days ago. That's the way they hand them to us.

[Clay Morgan]

So this one here, it's a different caliber. The same factory, isn't it, Mr. Holden?

[Jim Fuller]

Yeah, sure. What are you getting at, Ranger?

[Clay Morgan]

Well, this other gun's hardly oiled at all. Just enough to protect it from rust. Are you sure you haven't been using the.32?

[Jim Fuller]

I told you, I don't know nothing about guns.

[Clay Morgan]

Player. There's a little work room in the back of this place. I saw it when we were here before. How about checking it for cotton waste that might have been used to clean a gun, George?

[Jim Fuller]

Look, Ranger, I got a right to know what this is all about.

[Clay Morgan]

Sure you have. Take a look at this box. Take a good look. It used to have.32 caliber cartridges in it. We found it in your room.

[Jim Fuller]

Who let you in there?

[Clay Morgan]

Your sister? Mr. Holden, we think you were with your brother in law, Harry Crowley. Last night you tried to steal calves from the Fuller Ranch.

[Jim Fuller]

Don't be crazy. I had nothing to do with Harry.

[Clay Morgan]

You got away from us and you killed a Mexican because you he might identify you, didn't you?

[Jim Fuller]

How do you figure to prove what you're saying?

[Clay Morgan]

It won't be too hard. Not if Ranger Morgan finds the right piece of cotton waste in the other room.

[Jim Fuller]

Cotton waste don't mean nothing.

[Clay Morgan]

It does if a ballistic check shows that this was the gun that killed a Mexican last night.

[Jim Fuller]

Well, I found that cotton waste full of Burt powder.

[Clay Morgan]

Wrap it up in paper.

[Jim Fuller]

Put down that rifle. Not today. Get dirty. I got him. Fake. Hey, you sure put him to sleep, Jace. But good.

[Clay Morgan]

He probably needed it. I don't guess he slept much last night.

[Joel McCray]

In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard.

[Announcer]

Immediately following Tales of the Texas Rangers. Stay tuned for the Big show and its galaxy of stars. Today's Big show guest list includes Jack Carson, Bob and Ray, James Barton, Vera Lynn and Tony Bavar. And of course, the Big show is presided over by Ms. Talona Bankhead with Meredith Wilson directing the Big show orchestra and chorus. Then here, Phil Harris and Alice Fay for 30 minutes of mirth and melody. There's a laugh in every line when it's Time for the Phil Harrison Alice Fay Show. Later, there's Theatre Guild on the air. And here to tell you about today's program is one of its stars, Miss Dorothy McGuire.

[Susan Fuller]

Tonight, Theodore Guild on the air brings you Henry Bernstein's story, the Thief. It is a story of the eternal struggle between what is true and what man wants to believe is true. It is the story of a young man's belief that his beloved is nothing less than the perfection he imagines her to be. Hear the Thief presented by Theodore Guild on the air tonight on Nvidia.

[Announcer]

And now back to Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Joel McCray]

And now here are the results of.

[Jim Fuller]

The case you have just heard. At his trial on July 17, 1937, Al Holden pleaded guilty to murder and cattle theft. His sister Ruth Crowley received a two year prison term for obstructing justice. And Holden was sentenced to life imprisonment at Huntsville Penitentiary.

[Joel McCray]

Here once again is the star of our show, Joel McCray.

[Clay Morgan]

Howdy, folks. Ever since that broadcast last year when I read a poem entitled Not Guilty, we've had requests from judges, lawyers, police officers and even a jailer in northern Alaska to repeat it. So here it is. Not guilty. I guess I've seen a thousand men go in this jail and out from tramps with month old whiskers to rich men with a gout. Not one of them was guilty of the crimes the law accused. Seems they were all just victims of some officer's abuse from the time the keys are rattled until they're locked up in the cell Their voices though they differ From a whisper to a yell the song is always just the same that everyone will sing I don't see why they put me here. I haven't done a thing. Makes no difference what they've done or how mean the crime has been when they're locked behind those prison bars they're always free from sin Though the evidence be solid and their voice with guilt may ring they'll stand right up and tell you I haven't done a thing. So long, folks. See you next week.

[Joel McCray]

Next week, Joel McCray and another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers. The cast included Tony Barrett, Whitfield Connor Jeanette Nolan, Herb Ellis and Betty Lou Gerson. Technical advisor was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez. The Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charles E. Israel and the program is produced and directed by Stacy Keats.

[Clay Morgan]

Al Gipney speaking.

[Announcer]

Next, the Big show brings you 90 minutes of drama, comedy and music on NBC.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of OTRWesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook join in the conversation by going to otrwesterns.Com Discord and don't forget to send us an email podcast trwesterns.com this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and again, thanks for listening.

[Jim Fuller]

Sam.