Pick Up – Tales of the Texas Rangers (12-16-51)

Summary

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

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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.

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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])

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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.

Transcript

[Joe]

Foreign.

[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 Tales of the Texas Rangers. Original air date is December 16, 1951, and the title is Pickup. Hope you enjoy and again, thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

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. Name, states and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record. With only 6 shopping days till Christmas, thoughts go quickly to the many happy, hurried preparations for this wonderful religious feast day. There are presents for the children, the turkey for dinner and a thousand and one important things to plan and arrange before December 25th rolls around. Sunday is probably your day to rest, your day to take it easy. And it's on Sunday that NBC brings you a whole evening of great entertainment to help you relax, put you into a holiday mood and provide you with many hours of pleasant radio listening. Today, hear the big show with stars including Rosalind Russell, Phil Silvers, Jack Carson, Sarah Vaughn and many more. Yes, a full 90 minutes of great entertainment is yours. Comedy, drama, music. It's the big show. Then Phil Harris and Alice Fay are featured in a half hour of mirth and music. Later, Theater Guild on the Air presents Tyrone Power and Loretta Young in Aerosmith by Sinclair Lewis. Stay tuned to NBC, now entering its second quarter century as the leader in radio programming. And now, from the files of the Texas Rangers, the case called pickup.

[Clay Morgan]

It is 11:30 on the night of July 15, 1948. In a hobo jungle just outside the freight yards of Stone Canyon, Texas. Two men crouch beside a small fire.

[Joe]

Ain't that coffee ready yet, Whitey? Before you know it, afraid it'll be here.

[Whitey]

Well, it ought to be ready now. Hand me them two tin cans.

[Joe]

Catch.

[Whitey]

I wish we was already riding that rattler. Joe. I'm getting cold.

[Joe]

You're always getting cold.

[Whitey]

It's my chest. Ain't been right since last winter.

[Joe]

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

[Whitey]

There's your coffee. You know, I've been thinking, Joe, maybe we ought to stick around a while.

[Joe]

What fur?

[Whitey]

Well, there's plenty of work here. Besides, I'm getting tired. Always moving. Never getting set long enough to rest. Now, what's the matter?

[Joe]

It's coffee. What'd you put in it?

[Whitey]

Why is it the same as always, Joy?

[Joe]

I ought to know better than to let you make it, Whitey. You never could make a cup of coffee fit to drink. Come on, let's grab that rattler.

[Whitey]

Hey, you're pouring the coffee on the fire.

[Joe]

That's all it's good for. Put out fires. Come on, let's go.

[Whitey]

Well, let me finish my coffee first. Come on.

[Joe]

Come on, Whitey. Wanna miss this?

[Clay Morgan]

Great.

[Whitey]

Okay. Joe. Joe. Joe. I can't run so fast. Come on.

[Joe]

Come on. Joel. Joel.

[Whitey]

No, I'm trying. Joe. Wait. Wait.

[Joe]

Not empty. Why you with the door open?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, yeah.

[Joe]

All right.

[Clay Morgan]

Hurry up, will you?

[Whitey]

I can't.

[Jace Pearson]

Can't make it.

[Whitey]

Joel, give me a hand.

[Joe]

There you go. I don't know why I bother with you. More trouble. Move out of the way. I want to get the door closed.

[Whitey]

Might be some railroad ticks around.

[Joe]

Yeah, that's better.

[Whitey]

Joe.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah?

[Whitey]

There's somebody else riding in this car over in the corner.

[Joe]

So what? You don't own the railroad.

[Whitey]

But he's laying on his face. Something's wrong with him.

[Joe]

He's probably drunk.

[Whitey]

Leave him be. Well, maybe he's sick.

[Joe]

I'll go to it.

[Whitey]

Joel.

[Joe]

Now what's the matter with you?

[Whitey]

This guy, he's dead.

[Joe]

What?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Joe]

Let me see.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Joe]

We had to pick this car.

[Whitey]

We gotta get out of here.

[Joe]

Joel, you crazy white. This rattler's moving too fast. Now we get killed.

[Whitey]

What if the cops find us in here with that stiff that sent us away for good? We gotta get out of here.

[Joe]

I got a better idea. He's gonna get out.

[Jace Pearson]

You.

[Whitey]

You're gonna throw a dead man off the train?

[Joe]

Why not? He won't care.

[Whitey]

I still think we ought to leave him be.

[Joe]

Get out.

[Whitey]

Soon as a rattler slows down near a town.

[Joe]

What's the matter, you chicken? Come on. Get hold of his other arm.

[Whitey]

Joe, no.

[Joe]

Won't grab his. Whitey, get him over to the door.

[Whitey]

Oh, I feel sick.

[Joe]

You're always feeling sick. Sure is rough country out here. Okay, throw him out. There we go, and don't have to worry about him no more. Okay, Whitey. What do you say we get some sleep?

[Clay Morgan]

Body was found in a rocky ravine a day later by a Mexican nester, Julio Ramirez, who rode to the nearest town and reported his discovery in the absence of the sheriff. The rangers were notified within two hours. Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan were riding toward the ravine together with Ramirez.

[Jace Pearson]

How much, Father? Julio?

[Clay Morgan]

He's not far, senor.

[Whitey]

Just over this slope.

[Clay Morgan]

The dead one?

[Whitey]

He's there at the bottom.

[Charlie Bond]

You sure you never saw him before? Yeah.

[Whitey]

They don't know, senor. And I would know, because in a.

[Clay Morgan]

Whole year I seen Maybe like six people.

[Whitey]

This one I never seen.

[Clay Morgan]

That's why it was such a great surprise to find it. That one, Rosita, she. She was so scared.

[Joe]

Rosita?

[Clay Morgan]

Yeah, that's my burleson. She was so scared. There is the dead one.

[Whitey]

He's down there by the rocks.

[Charlie Bond]

Oh, boy. Jace. Railroad tracks near this side of the ravine.

[Jace Pearson]

Julio, how often do the trains come past here?

[Clay Morgan]

Two times a day, senor, but they do not carry a lot of people.

[Charlie Bond]

You mean the freight trains?

[Clay Morgan]

That's it. Freight trains.

[Charlie Bond]

He could have fallen off one of these freights, Chase.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. We'll know better when we get a look at the body. Get up, Char.

[Joe]

Come.

[Lil Dunlop]

No, no, no, Rosita, don't be scared.

[Clay Morgan]

The dead one will not hurt you.

[Jace Pearson]

Easy, Char. Easy, boy.

[Lil Dunlop]

Scar, if you don't need me some more.

[Jace Pearson]

You can go now. Julio. Thanks for helping us.

[Clay Morgan]

I'll be in my shack over that hill.

[Charlie Bond]

Oh, boy. Oh.

[Jace Pearson]

Let's get to work. Clay. Hey.

[Charlie Bond]

Shirt's torn. There's dirt and rock dust all over his back. Looks like he did fall off one of those freights.

[Jace Pearson]

Or got pushed. Turn him over, will you?

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah. Jeez.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. 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.

[Charlie Bond]

I'll check him for identification. Not what you call a pretty boy, is he?

[Jace Pearson]

Rolling down that hill. Didn't improve his looks any. You find anything?

[Charlie Bond]

Not yet. Pockets are clean. I don't think we'll get much from the dungarees in the shirt. Hey, wait a minute.

[Jace Pearson]

What is it?

[Charlie Bond]

Laundry mark on the shirt. CJ 405.

[Jace Pearson]

That's some help.

[Charlie Bond]

Not too much. We'll have to check every laundry in Texas to find out where this came from.

[Jace Pearson]

I got a hunch we may not.

[Charlie Bond]

Have to do that.

[Jace Pearson]

That stain on his shirt and those two on his dungarees. What would you say they were?

[Charlie Bond]

It could be crude oil.

[Jace Pearson]

Take a look at his shoes. Some more stains on top. And oil caked in the sole.

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah, Looks like he worked in the oil fields.

[Jace Pearson]

We'll have the lab go over these clothes, but it sounds like a pretty good bet.

[Charlie Bond]

Awful lot of oil towns in Texas, Jason.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, but only one I know of on this rail line.

[Charlie Bond]

You mean that boomtown south of here?

[Jace Pearson]

That's it. Ralston.

[Charlie Bond]

I suppose we find out he did come from there. How'd he get in one of those freights? And who pushed him off? Right here at this spot.

[Jace Pearson]

We'll Worry about that later. Come on, Clay. We got a lot to do before we head for Ralston. We arranged for the local justice of the peace to bring the body into town. Then we photographed the dead man and the laundry mark on his shirt. Three hours later, we were in Ralston checking the laundries. The second one told us what we wanted to know. The dead man was Carl Jessup, an oil well rigger who worked for an independent operator named Hamlin. We located Hamlin at one of his drilling rigs.

[Joe]

Well, what can I do for you Rangers?

[Jace Pearson]

I'd like to ask you a few questions.

[Joe]

Sure. Excuse me just a minute. Got him. Hell, Al over in the knowledge house to come on out and check that bit when you get her up.

[Jace Pearson]

All right.

[Joe]

What kind of questions?

[Jace Pearson]

You know a rigger named Carl Jessup?

[Joe]

I did.

[Charlie Bond]

What do you mean, you did?

[Joe]

Well, he worked for me till two nights ago. Didn't show up for work the next morning, so I figured he took off.

[Jace Pearson]

Any reason why he'd do that?

[Joe]

Well, he just been paid a month's wages. Maybe he just wanted to move on, work someplace else.

[Jace Pearson]

But he didn't tell you he was gonna quit?

[Joe]

No, he didn't. Wasn't surprised, though. Why not? Well, Carl was always kind of restless. Big homely boy. Got the idea he was always unhappy about something.

[Jace Pearson]

Anything in particular he was unhappy about?

[Joe]

Well, I. I don't rightly know. Seemed like he was carrying a grudge against the world. Cause he was born so homely? I guess, but that's only a guess.

[Jace Pearson]

Clay, show Mr. Hamlin the photo.

[Joe]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

Is that Jessup?

[Joe]

Yeah, that's him, all right. It was kind of funny, Ranger. Was he hurt or something?

[Jace Pearson]

He was murdered, Mr. Hamlin. Shot through the chest.

[Joe]

Murdered? But who'd want him?

[Jace Pearson]

But we're trying to find out. Did Jessup ever fight with any of the other oil workers around Ralston?

[Joe]

Not that I know of. Like I say, he was quiet and never cracked a smile. But I never seen him fight with nobody.

[Jace Pearson]

When was the last time you saw him?

[Joe]

Like I say, two nights ago. I just paid them in and most of us went down to the Bonanza Cafe for a glass of beer. Jessup was there.

[Jace Pearson]

Did he seem upset about anything?

[Joe]

Upset?

[Jace Pearson]

No.

[Joe]

Matter of fact, he was looking happier than I ever seen him look. Can't say as I blame him, neither.

[Jace Pearson]

How do you mean?

[Joe]

Well, he was talking with the prettiest redhead I've seen in a long time.

[Jace Pearson]

Oh, you know her name?

[Joe]

No, no, never seen it before.

[Jace Pearson]

But can you describe her teddy hard.

[Joe]

She's about five, four. Built like a. Well, you know what I mean.

[Charlie Bond]

Didn't it strike you funny, Mr. Hamlin, that a pretty girl like that would be hanging around an ugly fella like Jessup?

[Joe]

Well, maybe it did a little, but you never know about women. Besides, I figured that was strictly their business.

[Charlie Bond]

Did you see them leave the cafe together?

[Joe]

Might have. Couldn't swear to it. I remember looking up once and they were both gone. Say, you figured this gal shot Carl.

[Jace Pearson]

We don't figure anything yet. This Bonanza Cafe, is it near the freight yard?

[Joe]

Yeah, about a block away.

[Jace Pearson]

How much money Jessup get paid that night?

[Joe]

Well, I'd have to check my records to tell you exact, but I know it was a right fair amount. Worked a lot of overtime. Must come to 600 odd dollars.

[Charlie Bond]

Are you thinking the same thing I am, Jace?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, sounds like the old confidence game, all right. From what we know of Jessup, he was a sitting duck for it. Mr. Hamlin, you mind taking a trip to Austin with us?

[Charlie Bond]

What for, Ranger?

[Jace Pearson]

We want you to go through our mug file of confidence girls. Maybe you can identify a pretty redhead. How about that one, Mr. Hamlin?

[Joe]

Oh, no, that ain't her. Now, look, Ranger, I'm glad to help out if I can, but I'm getting a little tired of looking at gals pictures.

[Jace Pearson]

We don't have many more to go through. Hand me that last bunch of folders, please.

[Joe]

Sure.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, take a look at this one.

[Joe]

Nope. Nope. Don't even look like it. Besides, that one's a blonde. Dad, you once got red hair.

[Jace Pearson]

Real red. It might be dyed. This one look familiar?

[Joe]

I don't. Wait a minute. Yeah, let me take another look. Yeah, that's her, Ranger. That's her.

[Charlie Bond]

Who is it, Jace?

[Jace Pearson]

Lil Dunlop. Served three terms at Gory confidence wreck.

[Joe]

I didn't recognize her at first. Looks a might younger in that picture.

[Jace Pearson]

It was taken four years ago. You sure she's the one?

[Joe]

Oh, goodness. Miss her? She sure got a pretty face. So she's the one that shot Jessifer.

[Jace Pearson]

More likely the man she works with.

[Joe]

Man, I didn't see no man with her and Jessup.

[Jace Pearson]

You wouldn't have. He was probably waiting outside the cafe, maybe in the freight yard.

[Joe]

Well, how you find out who the man was? If there was one?

[Jace Pearson]

Little Dunlap's record ought to tell us something, huh? Yeah.

[Charlie Bond]

You find something, Jace?

[Jace Pearson]

Could be. Each time Lil was arrested, she was with a man named Charlie Bond.

[Charlie Bond]

Want me to get his file out?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. But first take Mr. Hamlin over to the colonel and see if he gets transportation back to Ralston.

[Joe]

Sure.

[Charlie Bond]

Come on, Mr. Hamlin.

[Joe]

All right.

[Charlie Bond]

Meet you back here, Chase.

[Jace Pearson]

No, by the teletypes, I'm gonna get out. In all points Bulletin on Lil Dunlop and Charlie Bo.

[Narrator]

In a moment we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. Charity is all mankind's concern. And especially at this time of the year, we must in our charity remember there are many less fortunate men, women and children who have not even shelter, much less a comfortable home where families can be reunited. We must in our charity remember the poor and the lonely who will not receive a Christmas present or be remembered by anyone if we forget them. We must, in our charity remember those suffering in hospitals shut in and yet shut out from Christmas joy. We must, in our charity remember young children whose dreams of Christmas we can help come true. Yes, charity is all mankind's concern. You can show your concern for mankind by supporting the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal through the Salvation Army. Your charity brings Christmas happiness to legions of lonely and poor people. We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story pick up.

[Jace Pearson]

We got out in all points bulletin on Lil Dunlap and Charlie Bond with orders to spot and keep under surveillance, but not to apprehend. Clay worked south and I worked north, hoping to get some line on them. The first day passed without results. So did the second. The third day at noon, I received an urgent radio call from Clay. I met him back at company headquarters.

[Charlie Bond]

Well, you got back here in a hurry, Jace.

[Jace Pearson]

What's up, Clay?

[Charlie Bond]

Phone call from San Antonio about Lil Dunlop.

[Jace Pearson]

They ever spotted?

[Charlie Bond]

Well, not exactly. But a rancher identified her as the girl who picked him up in a cafe last night. She invited him to a party, then.

[Jace Pearson]

A shortcut through the freight yards. A man jumped out, slugged him and rolled him for all his money. Is that it?

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah, that's it.

[Jace Pearson]

Same old pattern. Did the rancher get a look at the man?

[Charlie Bond]

No. Jason was too dark. But it's a good bet it was Charlie Bond.

[Jace Pearson]

How much they get away with this time?

[Charlie Bond]

Over $800.

[Jace Pearson]

Doing all right? Yeah.

[Charlie Bond]

Not for long, I hope. You know, they must be pretty confident to start operating so soon after they murdered Carl Jessup.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, but at least they're operating. And sooner or later we'll get them.

[Charlie Bond]

Probably not in San Antonio. Chances are they moved on soon as they made their haul there last night.

[Jace Pearson]

Maybe. Hey, wait a minute.

[Charlie Bond]

What's on your mind?

[Jace Pearson]

San Antonio. Where's that folder with Charlie Bond's record.

[Charlie Bond]

Over on the other desk. You got an idea, Jason?

[Jace Pearson]

I'll tell you in a second. Here's what I want. Take a look at that page, Clay. Second paragraph.

[Charlie Bond]

I don't get it, Jace. This just says Charlie once attempted escape from Huntsville with his cellmate, a guy.

[Jace Pearson]

Named Earl Dorn, otherwise known as Mousey Dorn.

[Charlie Bond]

You know this fella?

[Jace Pearson]

I sent him off on his last trip to Huntsville. He worked the confidence racket, same as Charlie Bond.

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah, but what's that got to do.

[Jace Pearson]

With San Antone, Clay? That's where Mousey lives. Never operated any other place.

[Charlie Bond]

You don't think he was in on that job with the other pair last night, do you?

[Joe]

No.

[Jace Pearson]

But if he was as good a friend of Charlie as I think he was, Charlie wouldn't leave San Antonio without seeing him. Maybe he and the girl even stayed with Mouse.

[Charlie Bond]

Could be worth our paying a visit, huh?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Come on, Clay. Let's get to San Antonio. This is it.

[Charlie Bond]

Doesn't look like anybody lives here.

[Jace Pearson]

We'll soon find out. Not what you call a fancy house, Mousey. Never did go in much for trimmings.

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah, I didn't think anybody was here.

[Jace Pearson]

Try the door. Yeah.

[Charlie Bond]

Jake, she's going out the back window.

[Joe]

Yeah. Hold it, Mousey.

[Lil Dunlop]

Let me go.

[Jace Pearson]

Come on.

[Lil Dunlop]

Come on. Let me go, huh?

[Jace Pearson]

Stick around, Mousey. It's not polite to walk out on your visitors.

[Lil Dunlop]

I ain't done nothing, Ranger.

[Jace Pearson]

Why are you trying to run away?

[Lil Dunlop]

I wasn't trying to run away. I just got scared. Let me go, huh?

[Jace Pearson]

Sure. Come on. Let's go sit down. We want to have a little talk with you.

[Lil Dunlop]

What do you have to me for, Ranger? I've been living right ever since I got out of Hunchville.

[Jace Pearson]

Sit down.

[Lil Dunlop]

Yeah, sit down.

[Charlie Bond]

Over here on the sink.

[Jace Pearson]

You've been having visitors, Mousey, Huh?

[Lil Dunlop]

No, no, no, I. I had no visitors.

[Jace Pearson]

No. You usually drink coffee out of three cups at once?

[Lil Dunlop]

Oh, yeah, yeah. I forgot. My aunt and uncle from Houston, they come by for a cup of coffee.

[Jace Pearson]

I see.

[Lil Dunlop]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

A middle cup. Clay, hold it by the bottom and bring it here, will you?

[Joe]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

Thanks. So your aunt and uncle were here?

[Lil Dunlop]

Yeah. Yeah, my aunt and uncle. Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

What color is your aunt's hair, Mousey? Huh?

[Lil Dunlop]

She's. She's. She got gray hair?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. You're sure it isn't red, Mousie?

[Lil Dunlop]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

Why, the lipstick on this cup is bright orange, the kind of redheaded woman might wear. You sure it was your aunt and uncle that were here?

[Lil Dunlop]

I.

[Jace Pearson]

It could have been Lil Dunlop and Charlie Bond. Goodnit, Mousey.

[Lil Dunlop]

Charlie. I ain't seen him a long time. A real long time.

[Jace Pearson]

Ranger, how many times you been in Huntsville?

[Lil Dunlop]

I don't remember. Twice, I think.

[Jace Pearson]

Three times. I know.

[Lil Dunlop]

Yeah. Yeah, I remember now. It was three times.

[Rosita]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

You know what happens when you get sent up again?

[Lil Dunlop]

Oh, you. You can't send me up again. I ain't done nothing.

[Jace Pearson]

We're looking for Charlie Bond and Lil Dunlop. They were here, weren't they?

[Lil Dunlop]

No.

[Jace Pearson]

If they were here and you don't tell us, the charge will be harboring criminals. The judge will throw the book at you.

[Lil Dunlop]

They weren't, I tell you.

[Jace Pearson]

All right, Clay, let's take these cups down to the sheriff's office. We'll bring Mousie along for company.

[Lil Dunlop]

You can't take me in. I ain't done nothing.

[Jace Pearson]

We won't keep you long. Just that we take the fingerprints off these cups.

[Lil Dunlop]

Fingerprints, huh?

[Jace Pearson]

Soon as we find out they don't belong to Charlie and Lil, we'll bring you back home. You ready, Mousey?

[Lil Dunlop]

Wait a minute.

[Jace Pearson]

You ready to start talking?

[Lil Dunlop]

Maybe. Maybe they was here.

[Jace Pearson]

How long ago?

[Lil Dunlop]

Early this morning.

[Jace Pearson]

They say where they were heading?

[Joe]

No.

[Lil Dunlop]

No, they didn't say.

[Jace Pearson]

Come on, Mouse, let's go.

[Lil Dunlop]

Oh, wait, wait, wait. I, I, I.

[Jace Pearson]

Okay. Okay, Ranger.

[Lil Dunlop]

They're going to Gulf City.

[Charlie Bond]

It sounds like they're gonna try their luck with a seaport for a change. Jason?

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah? Which cafe will they'll be working? Mousey?

[Lil Dunlop]

I don't know. She and Charlie were talking about it. They figured I'd decide when they get there.

[Jace Pearson]

Come on, Clay.

[Lil Dunlop]

Oh, I don't know. After Charlie a little. Ranger, you gotta believe me. If I'd have known, I'd have to.

[Whitey]

Tell you right off.

[Jace Pearson]

I'll bet. Next time, just be more careful about who you invite for coffee. I phoned the Gulf City chief of police and asked him to stake out his men in every cafe where Lil might be expected soon as one of them spotted her, he was to keep an eye on her and phone the chief's office. And Clay and I headed for Gulf City.

[Charlie Bond]

Just 20 more miles to Gulf City. Jace.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah? We ought to make it before dark.

[Charlie Bond]

The chief's men on the job. It shouldn't be too hard to spot Lil.

[Jace Pearson]

Our problem's to take Lil and Charlie together. I have to set a trap.

[Charlie Bond]

Clay, I don't follow you.

[Jace Pearson]

As soon as we get to Gulf City, I'm going to borrow a pair of dungarees and a denim shirt.

[Charlie Bond]

What for?

[Jace Pearson]

So I can pose as a seaman who's just been paid, walk into the cafe where Lil is and try and get her to pick me up.

[Charlie Bond]

Well, let's say she does. Then what?

[Jace Pearson]

Then she'll lead us to Charlie Bond.

[Charlie Bond]

But, Jay, Charlie's a killer. You won't be able to carry a gun that seaman's outfit.

[Jace Pearson]

But you'll have a gun. And you'll be tailing me from the minute Lil and I leave the cafe. Yeah.

[Charlie Bond]

I hope it works.

[Jace Pearson]

Not half as much as I do, Clay. Not half as much. We arrived at Gulf City around 7:00. I outlined my plan to the chief and he arranged for some seaman's clothes. I changed into dungarees and then Clay and I settled down in the office to wait.

[Charlie Bond]

10:00. Maybe. She's not gonna show tonight.

[Jace Pearson]

I'll give her time. She's probably waiting till the cafes fill up. It won't be so noticeable when she walks out with her latest sucker.

[Charlie Bond]

Only tonight, that's gonna be you.

[Jace Pearson]

Things work our way. There'll be two other suckers tonight. Lil and Charlie Bond, if things work our way.

[Charlie Bond]

I still don't like it, Jason.

[Jace Pearson]

You got a better idea?

[Charlie Bond]

No, I reckon not.

[Jace Pearson]

What's the matter?

[Charlie Bond]

Well, it's not really funny, but I can't get over you in that seaman's outfit. You look like you haven't spent a day on land in 10 years.

[Jace Pearson]

Just so it convinces Lil it ought to.

[Charlie Bond]

I'm convinced and I know you. I'll get it. Ranger Morgan. Where? Yeah, right away. Come on, Lil. The Yankee Cafe. Let's go, sailor.

[Jace Pearson]

The cafe was crowded with seamen when I walked in. I spotted Lil at the corner table and passed her on my way to the counter. Took out a wad of bills and made sure she could see them. And then I asked the proprietor for change to play the jukebox. I put in a nickel and when I turned around, she was standing at my shoulder.

[Rosita]

Hello, sailor.

[Jace Pearson]

Hi.

[Rosita]

You like music, huh?

[Jace Pearson]

We don't get to hear much aboard ship.

[Rosita]

You off one of the tankers?

[Charlie Bond]

Yeah.

[Rosita]

What's your name?

[Jace Pearson]

Jack.

[Rosita]

Jack. That's a real nice name. Mine's Lil. Buy me a beer, Jack?

[Jace Pearson]

Sure. Come on over.

[Rosita]

I hope you don't think I did wrong coming up to you and speaking first.

[Jace Pearson]

Glad you did. One beer and coffee, please.

[Rosita]

But don't you drink beer?

[Jace Pearson]

Yes, sometimes.

[Rosita]

Oh. I knew when you came in you'd be nice to talk to. I was right, too.

[Jace Pearson]

Funny, I was thinking the same thing when I saw you were You.

[Rosita]

I didn't even know you'd notice me.

[Jace Pearson]

Oh, with that pretty red hair. And how did I miss you?

[Rosita]

Yeah, I know.

[Joe]

Sorry.

[Charlie Bond]

Be right back.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Rosita]

I wish we could dance in here.

[Jace Pearson]

So do I.

[Rosita]

Hey, I got an idea. Few friends of mine are having a party tonight. Why don't we go? We could dance there.

[Jace Pearson]

I couldn't go in these work clothes.

[Rosita]

Oh, that won't make any difference. Come on, Jack.

[Jace Pearson]

Well, but don't you want to wait for your beer?

[Rosita]

There'll be plenty at the party.

[Jace Pearson]

Come on.

[Charlie Bond]

Okay.

[Jace Pearson]

Forget that beer and coffee. Maybe I ought to go back to ship and change into some better clothes.

[Rosita]

I told you, it won't make any difference. My friends won't care.

[Jace Pearson]

Which way?

[Rosita]

Right down here. Sure. I'm glad I met you tonight.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, me too. Only I wish we'd met a long time before this.

[Rosita]

You see, I was right. You are nice. Oh, we take a shortcut through here.

[Narrator]

Freight yard.

[Rosita]

My friends live right on the other side. This will save us a couple of miles of walking.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah, if you say so.

[Rosita]

It only takes a few minutes. How come you're so quiet all of a sudden?

[Jace Pearson]

Reckon I don't have much to say.

[Rosita]

Well, I expect we'll have a lot to talk about before the evening's over and.

[Jace Pearson]

Say that again.

[Rosita]

Well, now, that's more like it. For a minute there, I was beginning to think you didn't like me.

[Jace Pearson]

You scared of something there?

[Rosita]

Well, of course not.

[Jace Pearson]

Why? The way you're looking around.

[Joe]

No, you don't.

[Jace Pearson]

Slug him, Charlie. Plug him.

[Joe]

Give me that gun.

[Jace Pearson]

Charlie, look out.

[Joe]

Grab the girl, Clay.

[Clay Morgan]

I got this one.

[Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Get your hands off.

[Joe]

I can't. Come on. I said give me that gun. You.

[Jace Pearson]

Charlie.

[Rosita]

You killed Charlie.

[Joe]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

He'll be all right. You okay, Jace?

[Joe]

Yeah.

[Jace Pearson]

Put the other pair of cuffs on Charlie.

[Charlie Bond]

Sure.

[Rosita]

Dirty, dirty cops.

[Charlie Bond]

Hey, you sure hit him hard, Chase. He's out cold in the face.

[Rosita]

I should have known you were a cop. I should have figured it out the.

[Joe]

Minute I saw you. It.

[Jace Pearson]

Don't worry, Lil. You have plenty of time for figuring from now on.

[Narrator]

In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard. Music means all things to all people. Music is relaxation, adventure. Elysian fields of dreams come true. We of NBC feel proud of our Monday evening lineup of truly fine music programs. Tomorrow means more fine music on NBC with the Railroad hour featuring Gordon McRae. Tomorrow, Nadine Connor will guest on the Railroad Hour production of the Romberg Gershwin musical Rosalie. To add to your Monday evening Listening Pleasure. Also tomorrow, there's the Voice of Firestone, with guests Jerome Hines and Howard Barlow directing the orchestra in March of the Toys. Later, there's the Telephone Hour with guest soloist Michael Rabin and the orchestra under the direction of Donald Voorhees. And enjoy the Mario Lanza show with Mario lanza, lovely Giselle McKenzie and Ray Sinatra and the orchestra. Yes, Monday is your invitation to hear the Railroad Hour, the Voice of Firestone, the Telephone Hour and the Mario Lanza Show. Hear it on this station. And now, here are the results of the case you have just heard.

[Clay Morgan]

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. Early in 1949, Whitey home a vagrant dying of tuberculosis in the county hospital confessed that he and another man had thrown the body of Carl Jessup from a moving train, thus clearing up the unsolved element in the case.

[Narrator]

Next week, Joel McCray and another authentic reenactment of a case from the files.

[Clay Morgan]

Of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator]

The cast included Tony Barrett, Tom McKee, Brad Brown, Herb Ellis, Bob Sweeney and Joan Banks. Technical advisor was Captain MT Lone Wolf Fish Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charles E. Israel and the program was produced and directed by Stacy KE Hal Gibney speaking.

[Charlie Bond]

Foreign.

[Joe]

Next, it's the Big.

[Charlie Bond]

Show, all this and tallulah2 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's 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.