Detailed Summary of "Pick Up – Tales of the Texas Rangers"
Podcast Information:
- Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
- Host: Andrew Rines
- Episode: Pick Up – Tales of the Texas Rangers (Originally aired December 16, 1951)
- Release Date: April 9, 2025
1. Introduction
In this gripping episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with "Pick Up," a riveting tale from the files of the Texas Rangers. The story unfolds against the backdrop of post-war Texas, weaving a narrative of deceit, courage, and justice.
2. Discovery of the Body
The episode opens late on the night of July 15, 1948, in Stone Canyon, Texas, where two hobos, Joe and Whitey, are preparing to board a freight train—the infamous "rattler." Their conversation reveals a tense atmosphere as they fret over catching the train:
Joe [02:47]: "Ain't that coffee ready yet, Whitey? Before you know it, afraid it'll be here."
As the train departs, the duo confronts an unexpected passenger—a man lying lifeless in their compartment. Faced with the grim reality that the man, later identified as Carl Jessup, is dead, Joe and Whitey decide to dispose of the body to avoid suspicion:
Joe [05:02]: "You gonna throw a dead man off the train? Why not? He won't care."
3. Initial Investigation
The following day, Julio Ramirez discovers Jessup's body in a rocky ravine and promptly alerts the Texas Rangers, Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan. They arrive swiftly to assess the scene:
Narrator [02:35]: "Body was found in a rocky ravine a day later by a Mexican nester, Julio Ramirez..."
Rangers Pearson and Morgan begin their meticulous examination, noting suspicious details such as oil stains on Jessup's clothing, indicating his occupation in the oil fields:
Jace Pearson [07:50]: "Shot in the chest. Well, that's our first break. Bullet didn't go through the body. We'll be able to turn the slug over to ballistics."
4. Clues and Suspicions
As the investigation deepens, the Rangers uncover evidence pointing towards a possible murder rather than an accident. The lack of identification on Jessup's clothing and the peculiar laundry mark (CJ 405) lead them to suspect foul play. They narrow their search to Ralston, a nearby boomtown along the rail line:
Jace Pearson [08:14]: "That's some help."
Their inquiry reveals that Jessup was last seen at the Bonanza Cafe, where he interacted with a mysterious redheaded woman, raising suspicions of a confidence game at play.
5. Identifying the Suspects
Delving into the local records, the Rangers identify Lil Dunlop, a known con artist, and her associate Charlie Bond as prime suspects. Lil's history of involvement in confidence schemes aligns with the modus operandi observed in Jessup's murder:
Jace Pearson [12:15]: "What do you want, Ranger? I ain't got nothing to say."
Charlie Bond [13:02]: "Who is it, Jace?"
Through diligent research, they connect Lil Dunlop and Charlie Bond to previous fraudulent activities, solidifying their case.
6. Setting the Trap
Determined to apprehend the duo, Rangers Pearson and Morgan devise a strategic plan. Pearson disguises himself as a seaman to lure Lil Dunlop into a trap at Gulf City. The Rangers collaborate with local authorities to monitor Lil's movements, anticipating her next move:
Jace Pearson [21:00]: "I'll tell you in a second. Here's what I want..."
Their meticulous preparation underscores the Rangers' commitment to law enforcement and their tactical acumen.
7. The Capture
The trap is set at the bustling Yankee Café in Gulf City. Pearson, now in disguise, engages Lil Dunlop, who is immediately captivated and unaware of his true identity. As Lil becomes comfortable, Charlie Bond arrives, revealing their true intentions. A tense confrontation ensues:
Rosita (Lil Dunlop) [23:52]: "Buy me a beer, Jack?"
Jace Pearson [25:00]: "Come on, Clay."
The Rangers swiftly move to detain the suspects. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Charlie Bond attempts to resist arrest, leading to a physical altercation. Pearson manages to subdue Bond, resulting in his arrest and the end of their criminal spree:
Jace Pearson [25:55]: "You won't grab his. Whitey, get him over to the door."
8. Conclusion and Outcome
The episode culminates with the Rangers' successful resolution of the case. Ballistics confirm that Charlie Bond was the one who murdered Carl Jessup, thereby closing the investigation:
Clay Morgan [27:55]: "Faced with ballistics proof that his gun killed Carl Jessup, Charlie Bond admitted shooting him and placing his body in a freight car. Bond and Lil Dunlop received life sentences in the penitentiary."
A final confession by Whitey reveals the chilling truth behind Jessup's demise, ensuring that justice is served:
Whitey [28:02]: "I couldn't get over you."
The episode concludes with acknowledgments of the cast and production team, highlighting the authenticity and meticulousness of the reenactment.
Notable Quotes:
- Joe [05:02]: "You gonna throw a dead man off the train? Why not? He won't care." ([05:02])
- Jace Pearson [07:50]: "Shot in the chest. Well, that's our first break. Bullet didn't go through the body." ([07:50])
- Jace Pearson [12:15]: "What do you want, Ranger? I ain't got nothing to say." ([12:15])
- Jace Pearson [21:00]: "I'll tell you in a second. Here's what I want..." ([21:00])
- Jace Pearson [25:55]: "You won't grab his. Whitey, get him over to the door." ([25:55])
- Clay Morgan [27:55]: "Faced with ballistics proof that his gun killed Carl Jessup..." ([27:55])
Final Thoughts
"Pick Up" offers a captivating glimpse into the relentless pursuit of justice by the Texas Rangers. Through masterful storytelling and authentic dialogue, the episode underscores themes of integrity, perseverance, and the triumph of good over evil. Whether you're a longtime fan of Old Time Radio or new to the genre, this episode is a testament to the enduring allure of Western dramas.