Red Mans Range | Lightning Jim (1952)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Red Man's Range | Lightning Jim
Original Air Date: 1952
Release Date: May 26, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines presents a digitally restored rendition of the classic 1952 Western drama, Red Man's Range, featuring the iconic character Lightning Jim. This episode immerses listeners in the tense and rugged landscape of the Black Hills during a period of intense conflict between settlers and the Sioux tribe. Enhanced audio quality brings vivid soundscapes to life, enriching the storytelling experience.

Plot Overview

Red Man's Range centers around United States Marshal Lightning Jim and his deputy, Whitey Larson, as they navigate the treacherous terrain of the Black Hills. Their mission is to track down a local agent suspected of illicitly supplying firearms to the Sioux tribe, escalating tensions that could lead to further violence reminiscent of historical events like the massacre of General Custer.

Key Plot Points:

1. The Mission Begins (00:43 - 03:19):

   • Lightning Jim and Whitey embark on their dangerous mission to intercept the agent facilitating the illegal arms trade.
   • The backdrop is set with the discovery of gold attracting settlers into traditionally Indian territories, heightening hostilities.

2. Approaching Danger (03:19 - 12:38):

   • As they journey north from Fort Laramie, Lightning Jim expresses unease about the increasing danger of their task (03:26).
   • The duo encounters War Cloud, a Sioux chief, who demands firearms for his tribe, leading to a tense negotiation over buffalo robes (05:25 - 12:16).
   • An altercation ensues when War Cloud suspects Lightning Jim and Whitey of obstruction, culminating in a brawl where Lightning Jim and Whitey are bound and gagged (16:04 - 17:21).

3. Climactic Confrontation (17:21 - 29:55):

   • Part two reveals Lightning Jim and Whitey trapped in the trading post's cellar while the Snodgrasses and local allies prepare to confront the Sioux threat.
   • Kentucky, a renowned Indian scout, collaborates with War Cloud to outmaneuver the impending ambush (19:30 - 24:43).
   • A strategic plan involving gunpowder is devised to prevent the Sioux from acquiring the forbidden firearms, leading to a high-stakes showdown (24:33 - 27:05).
   • The episode builds to a cliffhanger as uncertainty looms over whether Lightning Jim can thwart the Sioux's plans without falling victim to their attacks (29:55 - 30:45).

Character Analysis

• Lightning Jim (Lightning Jim) [00:43 - 27:05]:

  • The steadfast and resourceful U.S. Marshal, determined to uphold the law amidst mounting dangers.
  • Exhibits leadership and tactical thinking, especially in devising plans to neutralize threats (24:43 - 27:05).

• Whitey Larson (Whitey Larson) [01:21 - 26:03]:

  • Lightning Jim's loyal deputy, providing support and camaraderie.
  • Demonstrates bravery and quick thinking during confrontations (16:11 - 17:04).

• War Cloud (War Cloud) [05:16 - 29:55]:

  • A Sioux chief representing the tribe's desperate need for firearms.
  • Embodies the tension between the Native Americans and settlers, highlighting the complexities of the conflict (05:16 - 29:55).

• Absalom Snodgrass (Absalom Snodgrass) [06:11 - 28:46]:

  • A local trader entangled in the illicit arms trade.
  • Displays cunning and opportunism, initially resisting but eventually negotiating with War Cloud (08:06 - 28:46).

• Mrs. Snodgrass (Mrs. Snodgrass) [06:22 - 29:55]:

  • Absalom's wife, involved in the trading post's operations.
  • Portrays resilience and assertiveness during the escalating conflict (06:22 - 29:55).

Key Scenes and Notable Quotes

1. Negotiation at the Trading Post:

   • War Cloud demands firearms:
     War Cloud (05:25): "War Cloud brave need guns, need powder, need bullet much bad."
   • Whitey Larson refuses to sell:
     Whitey Larson (05:28): "I don't gotta do nothing. I told you, I promised Chief Buffalo all the guns and ammunition I had on hand."

2. Brawl and Capture:

   • War Cloud confronts the marshals:
     Whitey Larson (16:07): "I didn't hurt him much, just choked him a bit."
   • Lightning Jim's resilience:
     Lightning Jim (27:03): "Good to see you."
     War Cloud (27:05): "Good to see you."

3. Strategic Planning with Kentucky:

   • Kentucky devises a plan to use gunpowder:
     Kentucky (24:37): "I'm gonna run this long fuse from that barrel of gunpowder I just opened out through this crack in the wall."

4. Cliffhanger Ending:

   • Anticipation of the final showdown:
     War Cloud (29:55): "Well, Marshall, for God's sake, don't let that female hear you talking about all this."

Insights and Themes

• Conflict and Morality:

  • The episode explores the moral ambiguities of law enforcement in conflicted territories, highlighting the difficult choices faced by characters like Lightning Jim and Whitey Larson.

• Cultural Tensions:

  • Depicts the fraught relationship between settlers and Native American tribes, emphasizing the destructive impact of greed and territorial disputes.

• Resourcefulness and Strategy:

  • Showcases the protagonists' strategic minds and ability to adapt under pressure, vital for survival in the unforgiving Wild West environment.

• Cliffhanger and Suspense:

  • Ends on a suspenseful note, setting the stage for continued adventures and unresolved tensions, keeping listeners eager for the next installment.

Conclusion

Red Man's Range | Lightning Jim offers a compelling journey into the classic Western frontier, enriched by meticulously restored audio that enhances every creak, gunshot, and dialogue. The episode masterfully balances action, character development, and thematic depth, making it a standout installment for fans of Old Time Radio Westerns. Through its engaging narrative and vivid performances, it pays homage to legendary shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, ensuring that the timeless tales of the Wild West continue to captivate new audiences.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Lightning Jim expressing doubt:
  "I tell you, Lightning, the further we go on this job, the lesser I like it." [03:26]

• War Cloud's demand for firearms:
  "War Cloud brave need guns, need powder, need bullet much bad." [05:25]

• Whitey Larson's refusal:
  "I don't gotta do nothing. I told you, I promised Chief Buffalo all the guns and ammunition I had on hand." [05:28]

• Kentucky's strategic plan:
  "I'm gonna run this long fuse from that barrel of gunpowder I just opened out through this crack in the wall." [24:37]

• Cliffhanger intrigue:
  "Marshall, for God's sake, don't let that female hear you talking about all this." [29:55]

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This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the Red Man's Range episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who have yet to experience this classic Western adventure.

Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be Lightning Gem, originally aired in 1952 and the title is Red Man's Range. Thanks for listening and I hope you enjoy.

[Narrator]

Little Dog.

[War Cloud]

You know that the fairy will be your new home.

[Lightning Jim]

Sa.

[Whitey Larson]

Ram.

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[Narrator]

And now for the thrilling adventures of Lightning Jim. The discovery of gold in the Black Hills brought many prospectors and settlers into the region, which had long been acknowledged as Indian territory. And several chiefs of the Sioux tribe had taken their braves on a war path, opening hostilities whose zenith of horror was achieved a few years later in the hideous massacre of General Custer and his men. Lightning Jim and Whitey are now on the trail of the local agent who is contacting the Indians and affecting the sale and delivery of forbidden firearms. The mission is one of the most dangerous that the two marshals have ever attempted. And as they ride across the rolling plains north from Fort Laramie, how long.

[Lightning Jim]

He figured it'll be before he hits hostile territory?

[Narrator]

Well, according to the soldiers back at.

[Kentucky]

The fort, we done hit it, Whitey.

[Lightning Jim]

I tell you, Lightning, the further we go on this job, the lesser I like it.

[Kentucky]

My godly sure think a whole heap of that towheaded scalp of y don't you, Whitey?

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, I certainly do think a lot to my scalp. And my scalp's kind of attached to me too by.

[Kentucky]

Hey, take a look at that skyline here.

[Lightning Jim]

Don't like them. The Coppola redskins about a mile ahead and right standard three or two.

[Kentucky]

Might be just as well the very east of it till we get around them.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, no, we won't look over that ridge to the east there.

[Whitey Larson]

Two more Bakash.

[Kentucky]

Three of them. Directly west of the trail too. Looks like it's clouding up for trouble, Whitey.

[Lightning Jim]

But there's none of them behind us. Lighting Maybe we could make it back to the fort.

[Kentucky]

Yeah, but we ain't going to try.

[Narrator]

Whitey.

[Kentucky]

Up. Thunder.

[Lightning Jim]

Keep the minute lightning. You're kicking right in the tree. We'll run right into the first three and yes, this way.

[Kentucky]

Come along and don't argue, boy. Look, they're giving ground.

[Lightning Jim]

Then you think they must try to drive us into ambush. Yeah, and make him look like if they ever open behind.

[Kentucky]

I'm sure of it, buddy. If gone the way they wanted us to go, we'd be nothing more than a couple of dead hombres in no time.

[Lightning Jim]

They look like him. They disappeared from sight. I bet you they're hiding along the spaces ahead so they can shoot us when we pass through them.

[Narrator]

Reckon you're right, buddy.

[Kentucky]

Can't turn back now.

[Narrator]

The others get ashore.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Hey, I think they see one lightning.

[Kentucky]

Where?

[Lightning Jim]

Over to the right there.

[Whitey Larson]

Sure.

[Narrator]

Get a chance to get back to trading poor.

[Lightning Jim]

But look. Look behind us. Those are closing in. None of us.

[Narrator]

Holy smoke, Whitey. There must be 15 of them red devils now.

[Whitey Larson]

Right, Whitey.

[Narrator]

Ride for your.

[War Cloud]

Rappaho, Joe.

[Whitey Larson]

Hey, Chief War Cloud.

[War Cloud]

Huh?

[Whitey Larson]

Dog Gun. You Indians, you move like cats. Well, what do you want, War Cloud?

[War Cloud]

Dumb trading post get guns.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, you're wasting your time then. Cause I ain't gonna sell you no guns.

[War Cloud]

War Cloud brave need guns, need powder, need bullet much bad. You got Pale to War Cloud.

[Whitey Larson]

I don't gotta do nothing. I told you, I promised Chief Buffalo all the guns and ammunition I had on hand.

[War Cloud]

War Cloud brave have much cold. We'll pay much gold for gun, bullet powder.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, it's true that I promised this stuff to Buffalo Calf. But if you're willing to raise the ante. Well, hold on there. There's your covered wagon pulling up. You gotta go now, workloud. Come on back later. We'll talk about it then. Maybe we make a deal.

[Andrew Rines]

Come on, get out.

[Kentucky]

Quick.

[Whitey Larson]

Out the back way.

[War Cloud]

Work out feedback.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Hey, where do you think you're going, ev?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Why, I'm just going into the trading post for a minute, Marty.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, don't be long. Got him in this broken yoke bow, you know.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, howdy, stranger. Where'll yours be?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Hey, you're a rapper, Ho Joe, ain't you?

[Whitey Larson]

Yep.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Well, my name's Snodgrass. Absolute Snodgrass. I want to buy a couple of good buffalo robes if you got them.

[Whitey Larson]

Buffalo robes, huh?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Sure.

[Whitey Larson]

I've got a genuine winter skin engine cured. And the best money can buy.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

The best, huh?

[Whitey Larson]

That's good.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Lucky Ab don't buy nothing but the best. And why? Because he can afford the best, that's why. How much do you want from them?

[Whitey Larson]

Well, seeing as how they're prime hides, I ought to get well $15 apiece for them.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

$15, huh? Oh, it seems kind of steep, but I can afford it. Got some scales handy.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, gold up, huh? Big fork of it. Must have been prospecting. Struck it rich.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Rich? I'll say I am rich. Got more than 5,000 in nuggets and dust out yonder in that wagon. And I'm going back for more soon as them infernal redskins get settled down and empty snatches.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Whatever took you so long? Oh, so you got some buffalo robes, huh?

[Narrator]

Sorry.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

I told you. We can make out by sleeping another set of flannels. How much you pay for em?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

$15.

[Whitey Larson]

Your wife would take it. Huh?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

His wife? Of course I'm his wife. Whose wife would I be?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

$15, huh?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, that ain't a bad price for two good soft hides like these be.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

But you see, my dear, it ain't $15 for bow tides.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

You mean you paid $15 a piece for them skins? Why, you long eared grass eating toad pony, you.

[Lightning Jim]

Why?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Why, what do you mean? Throwing a hard earned gold around that a way.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

No, no, no, no. You said there was fine hide.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, I didn't say it was worth a weight in gold, did I? Now you listen to me after just.

[Whitey Larson]

A minute, ma' am.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

As for you, you Stephen shopkeeper, you. I'll thank you to give my man back every grain of that gold dust before I lose my temper.

[Whitey Larson]

I ain't got your husband's money, ma' am. He ain't paid me yet.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

You see, I was just fixing to weigh up the dust when you stepped in.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, why didn't you say so in the first place? Now come on, get to work on that yolk bow.

[Whitey Larson]

But ma' am, I was just fixing to say that. Well, I. I might let you have them robes a little cheaper since you.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Ain'T dealing with no highway robber like you'll be at any point. Get along here.

[War Cloud]

Oh, girl. Howdy, stranger. You be the owner of this wagon outfit?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

That's me, Mr. Absalom. Snodgrass. The name Lucky Abdico.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

I'm the one you gotta deal with, stranger. What do you want?

[War Cloud]

Well, I seen your tracks on trailback yonder. Saw you was traveling alone. Thought maybe how you might like to hire a guard. An engine fighter, ma' am.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Guard?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Engine fighter? You? Why you're that old, you couldn't fight A Tide cab. Besides, there ain't been a smell of engine trouble between here and the Ford.

[War Cloud]

Maybe not, ma' am, but just today I seen a band of Rappahos wearing wall paint. Want more than 15 mile back. And I've seen Sue and Cheyenne to the west of here.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Is that so? Well, Marty, maybe we'd better hire the.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

St. Oh, this old scalper ain't taking me in none. E.B. snodgrass. Why, it's as plain as a nose on your face that he's just trying to scare us so he can make some easy money for himself. Now, get along with you. We got work to do. Look out. Where you going there?

[Narrator]

Hey, wave.

[Kentucky]

What happened?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

I got up there throwing by my clothesline, that's what happened. Oh, now look at my clothes all over the ground.

[Lightning Jim]

Well, ma' am, as long as you're looking at your clothes, you are safe. But you'd do me a great big fever if you turn around till I can locate the seat of my pants.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

The seat of your pants gone. Well, don't you dare turn around, young man, or I get in my way.

[Narrator]

Now, maybe you'll invest in that inner lining. I advise you to buy white. You see, ma' am, whitey's had trouble.

[Kentucky]

With the feet of his britches before.

[Lightning Jim]

No, no, no. Listen here, Lightning, don't.

[War Cloud]

Well, if my old eyes don't deceive me, it's Lightning Jim in Whitey.

[Narrator]

Huge dog on your h. Old.

[Whitey Larson]

Good to see you.

[War Cloud]

Good to see you.

[Lightning Jim]

Good to see you.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, you three may be old friends, but this ain't lodge night. And I'll thank you to move out of the way so I can get my clothes picked up.

[Lightning Jim]

Understand? I have a Sony pool about my bridges, ma' am. They're still all in one piece. I'll help you pick these clothes up. Don't go into Indians anyway.

[Whitey Larson]

Juicy engines in them.

[Kentucky]

Up to a couple of miles from here. Fifteen of them red devils with tailing us so close they had a range.

[Lightning Jim]

John, if you know anything about Indian shooting them, you'd know to have us pretty close.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

And now you see, Marty, he was right. The old fellow want lying none about the engines.

[War Cloud]

Well, do I get the job?

[Kentucky]

Oh, your after job is for this outfit, eh?

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Kentucky just what he is. And as far as I'm concerned, he's got it too.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Not so fair, sir. Ed, how do we know this Big Bone Whack knows anything about redskins? How to fight them and all?

[Kentucky]

Listen, ma' am, old Kentucky is one of the most famous Indian scouts the US Government ever had. Why, if it hadn't been for his teaching me some of the tricks of them savages, my deputy and me would have just thrown into one of the neatest little ambushes ever planned.

[Lightning Jim]

Sure, if that's redskins you're up against, you can bank and old Kentucky keep you out of trouble all right.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, I reckon as Harry must be all right if you two vouch for him. Seeing as how your badges show your marshals.

[Whitey Larson]

What'll the charge be?

[War Cloud]

Well, being as I was headed down towards the fort anyhow, I can afford to let you off right reasonable, ma' am.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

How much?

[War Cloud]

Well, I reckon $30 would be a fair price.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

$30? $30? Why, I never heard of such a price. I'll give you 15 and not a cent more.

[War Cloud]

$30 is my price, ma' am, but.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

This ain't no time to be so saving. Doggone it. Them buffalo hides may not be worth the price, but our own hides be.

[Kentucky]

Ever seen a body that's been carved on by rapper hoes, ma' am?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

I'll give you $20, old man. But I'm warning you, I won't go no higher.

[War Cloud]

I'll settle for 25.

[Narrator]

Taken.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

I'll pay you myself. Dagnabbit. I ain't gonna risk my hide for no measly $5.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

All right, Abs, not Grace. But that $5 comes out of your tobacco money. And when you're horning for a smoke, just remember it's what you get for interfering when I'm driving a bargain.

[War Cloud]

So you're gunning for the owl hooter what's been supplying guns to the engines up this way, eh? Lightning?

[Kentucky]

Yep. And I don't mind telling you, I'm expecting plenty of trouble on this job, too, Kentucky.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, are you two gonna talk all night?

[War Cloud]

Hey, White is right, Landon. You'll be traveling through bad territory tomorrow, and a good night's sleep may stand you in good stead.

[Kentucky]

Yeah, reckon that's so. Kentuck. Yeah, Whitey, you set up blankets over here.

[War Cloud]

I wonder what that Indian was doing here.

[Kentucky]

Indian? Where?

[War Cloud]

You can't see him now. Just left the trading post by the back way. One Arapahoe Joe's customers, I reckon. Nothing to get head up over. Only I wonder what he's doing over here so late.

[Lightning Jim]

I was looking that way all the time and I didn't see nothing. Just the shadows from those cottonwood trees.

[War Cloud]

Well, I reckon most folks wouldn't have seen that redskin Whitey. But when you've been dealing with the breed as many years as I've been. You learn the difference between shadows that sways back and forth in the ones that kind of oozes along Them last kind is Injuns.

[Kentucky]

Well, Kentucky thought you wouldn't hit the hay.

[War Cloud]

I do, but that ratted I don't like Injuns nohow. Well, good night, boys.

[Kentucky]

Good night.

[Lightning Jim]

Sleep good, old timer.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Whitey Waddy.

[Whitey Larson]

Whitey, wake up.

[Kentucky]

Come on, wake up then. I got something to tell you.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, Lightning, my sleep again. It can't be it until the morning.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

No, it can't wait.

[Kentucky]

Listen, Whitey, I was tossing around worrying about that Indian concept saw coming out of the trading post. And all of a sudden I noticed.

[Narrator]

A light in there.

[Kentucky]

Couldn't figure out why Rapper Ho Joe'd be up this late. I decided to have a look, sir. You really?

[Lightning Jim]

What did you see?

[Kentucky]

Plenty. At first I couldn't see a sign of nobody in the room. And all of a sudden I saw a trap door open in the floor and Joe come up out of it.

[Lightning Jim]

You're very much to that places as.

[Narrator]

Storerooms underneath the floor.

[Kentucky]

Yeah, but Joe was so careful about pulling the cougar skin over the opening. But I think he's being anxious for no one to know the storeroom's there.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, then you must think maybe your support get that supplying the guns to the Indians, huh?

[Kentucky]

It's an interesting possibility, Whitey.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Oh, that's so old.

[Lightning Jim]

Kentucky said you almost like sexist and seventh with the Indian.

[Kentucky]

Yeah. Now, come on, Buddy. Joe left for the back way, took his horse and where he went that you and me are going to have a look below that trap door before he gets back.

[Whitey Larson]

Don't know.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Right.

[Kentucky]

Lightning handed down the lantern pipe.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Oh, sure.

[Kentucky]

There you are. Remember, keep your eyes glued on the back door, Buddy.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

If you see or hear anything, lock.

[Whitey Larson]

The trap door and get out of sight. George. You dead, Lightning?

[Kentucky]

I like the phantom there.

[Lightning Jim]

Lightning.

[Whitey Larson]

Or the guns down there.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Guns out there.

[Narrator]

Gunpowder suit. Several barrels.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Even some dynamite.

[Whitey Larson]

Let him up, Marshall.

[Kentucky]

Rappaho's go.

[Whitey Larson]

I got you covered, Longhead. And I ain't afraid to shoot either. Now don't try any false moves.

[Kentucky]

But what.

[Narrator]

What'd you do with Buddy?

[Whitey Larson]

He's right here beside me, Marshall. I didn't hurt him much, just choked him a bit. Now turn around, face the wall, Mr. Lightning. Jim Woo. I am coming down.

[Kentucky]

Well, you got to drop on us this time, Jumbo Joe. We'll have you tighten a hemp nut.

[War Cloud]

Before we are finished.

[Whitey Larson]

Ever hear the saying dead men tell no Tales.

[Kentucky]

Dead men, eh? You're gonna kill us, is that it, Joe?

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, I ain't gonna kill you, Marshall. No, siree. I'm just gonna try and gag in. Leave the job of killing you to them that knows some real fancy ways of getting rid of nosy law dogs like you and your partner Engines.

[Narrator]

Well, Lightning Jim and Whitey seem to have run up against trouble with a vengeance. The thrilling climax of this Lightning Gym adventure will be heard in part two, which follows immediately.

[Kentucky]

Sam.

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[Narrator]

And now for part two of the Adventures of Lightning Jim the Red Man's Reign. It is dawn, and in the cellar of the trading post, Lightning Jim and Whitey lie securely gagged and bound, while outside preparations are being made by Ken Tuck and the Snodgrasses to commence the day's trek.

[Kentucky]

Southwood.

[Whitey Larson]

Be sure and give you to the fool.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

For land sakes, how long you going to keep up that terrible cat a walling ass.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Oh, gosh, all hemlock, Morty. Can't a man be happy for two minutes without you jumping down his throat.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Well, it's your own fault if I'm out of humor. Abs, not grass. I dare you. Agreeing to pay that old robber $25 when I'd have had him shaved down to 20 if you let me be.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

When your paw was laid away, you was sorry you hadn't married an undertaker so as you could save the price of the burying. And now I wish. I suppose you're wishing I was an Indian fighter. Matter of fact, I kind of wish it myself.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Yeah, you an Indian fighter.

[War Cloud]

That's good.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Why, the very first war hoop, you'll jump 15 ways. Abs not.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

I would not.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

And that's not counting up. But speaking of engine fighters, where's that old fool?

[Whitey Larson]

Kentuck?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Kentuck. Oh, Kent Hill.

[War Cloud]

You folks all set to go?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Already. About time you was showing up. You might as well understand right here and now that we ain't aiming to send out good money for you to go romping off your own devices every whip stick. Now, get your horse and let's get started.

[War Cloud]

Sorry to hold you up, ma' am, but the fact of the matter is I'm kind of worried about them two marshals. Been trying to locate which way they're headed, but can't find area trace.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Don't see if it makes a difference which way they went. It's gone, ain't they?

[Whitey Larson]

Sure can.

[Kentucky]

And Rapper Ho.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Joe said they pulled out about an hour before dawn.

[War Cloud]

Saw me S. Why can't I pick up the trail? There's Joe now. Hey, Rapper Ho.

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah?

[War Cloud]

What kind? You say them marshals pulled up stakes this morning?

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, long. About an hour before dawn, I reckon.

[War Cloud]

Kind of early for you to be up wanded.

[Whitey Larson]

Oh, I wasn't up. They wake me. Wanted to buy something. The trading post where they left.

[War Cloud]

Didn't hear them. What'd they buy?

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Oh, for land's sake, what difference does it make what they bought?

[Lightning Jim]

Get your horse.

[War Cloud]

Ah, just a minute, ma' am. Wouldn't you say they bought Rappaho?

[Whitey Larson]

It was tobacco, that's what it was. The big fella wanted some tobacco.

[War Cloud]

Now, let me get this straight, Rappaho. You're trying to tell me that Lightning Jim woke you up to buy some tobacco before he left this morning, is that right?

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, that's right.

[War Cloud]

Where's those marshals, Rappaho?

[Whitey Larson]

All right, I know where they was. Long as vale somewhere, I reckon.

[War Cloud]

I said, where's them marshals?

[Whitey Larson]

I'm telling you straight, Kentucky. I ain't no nursemaid. We're a couple of ten stars.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Oh, course he ain't Kentuck. What's the matter with you?

[War Cloud]

Listen, man, this coot's cold. Deck them marshals just as sure as I'm standing here. Lightning Jim never uses tobacco. No kind smoking or chewing. Now, I'd give you one more chance to spill a Joe, you gonna talk?

[Whitey Larson]

I tell you, I ain't done nothing. I ain't got nothing to say.

[War Cloud]

Get your hands up, you skunk. Hey, now, A.B. get his guns.

[Whitey Larson]

Sure can, Tut.

[War Cloud]

Now, start walking. Rappaho.

[Whitey Larson]

Where you taking me? What are you gonna do to me?

[War Cloud]

I ain't messed around Injuns all my life without learning some good ways of getting the man's mouth to work in, Rappaho. But they don't exactly make pleasant watching for a lady. So get.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

There is no exclude to play any more of your rouser. No, Mr. Rabbit.

[Whitey Larson]

Hole, Joe.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Not with you tying them up if you want, Maud, nothing's ever got away from you yet.

[Whitey Larson]

Nab your female hide. Go easy there.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Say a saddle ho, I reckon.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Well, I'd say there was one thing you ain't been saving with Marty. And that's our rope.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Why, Abs not guess you don't think I'm planning on letting this here good hemp rope get away from us, do you? Not on your life I ain't. We're going right to the jail when them marshals turns this low down prairie. And we're going to get a rope back, that's what we're going to do.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Here comes Kentucky with them law men now. Well, I see Rappaho Joe weren't lying when he told you where you could locate them marshals, Kentuck.

[War Cloud]

Yeah. Man ain't likely to lie under the kind of persuasion I use to unrap a ho joab.

[Narrator]

Well, I see he got a business all and ready for the hangman business. Not that I took care of old.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Joe right enough, Marshall. But what I'm wanting to know is just when this famous garden engine fighter we hired is going to start doing something about getting us in a wagon shot down the trail from Fort Laramie.

[Kentucky]

Listen, ma' am, there's a load of firearms inside that trading post. And if the engines what's bought them get their hands on them guns, well, you know none of the rest of us would ever see Fort Laramie.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, that's right, Lightning. And we got to start doing something right away. By golly, there's no telling how soon them the devils will come after the.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Stuff easy coming here. Well, why are we standing around then? We gotta get out.

[Narrator]

Hold on there, Ab.

[Kentucky]

About how many braves does War Cloud have? Rapper Ho.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, how would I know?

[War Cloud]

Out of the way, Lightning. I'll get an answer for your time.

[Whitey Larson]

No, no, no, no. Keep that blood thirsty old coat away from me, Marshall.

[Narrator]

I'll talk.

[Kentucky]

Well, that's better.

[Whitey Larson]

Well, War Cloud's got, well anyway fifty, maybe a hundred or more in his camp. But he ain't likely to bring them all here after the guns.

[Lightning Jim]

Fifty or a hundred. We couldn't hold out more than a couple hours against that many Red.

[War Cloud]

Never.

[Kentucky]

We can't hold out against them, buddy. But there's one thing we can do. We can see them redskins don't get the guns and ammunition.

[Whitey Larson]

Right. Then all you got finished down here in the saddle?

[Kentucky]

Just about, buddy. You always to blow up all this ammunition. The only way to keep them red devils from Getting their hands on it.

[Lightning Jim]

And I just hope they don't get their hands on us instead.

[Kentucky]

Yeah. Hold this landing up high for me, will you buddy?

[Lightning Jim]

No. Let's see what you doing now.

[Kentucky]

I'm gonna run this long fuse from that barrel of gunpowder I just opened out through this crack in the wall.

[Lightning Jim]

You say that's good idea. Then we can sprinkle a trail of gunpowder from the end of the fust to a safe distance away.

[Kentucky]

Kentuck watching out for the Indians. Whitey.

[Lightning Jim]

He's keeping watch.

[Whitey Larson]

All right.

[Lightning Jim]

And the covered maggot is here out of sight in a clump of cotton. Was back at a trading board.

[Kentucky]

And our horses they're back to too.

[Lightning Jim]

And Kentucky left orders for more that's not dressed to stay out of sight. In the wagon. Everywhere Yours in the wagon too.

[Kentucky]

Good. There. That's got it. Now we're filler. Absolute gunpowder.

[Narrator]

Indian.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Yeah.

[Whitey Larson]

Quick buddy.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

I'm the right way man.

[War Cloud]

Indian. Hurry up now.

[Narrator]

Come on. No time to think of gunpowder now.

[Lightning Jim]

I think I'll see you there.

[War Cloud]

The wagon's kid. Back away. But we can see what's happening better from here.

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Look. See.

[Lightning Jim]

Look at this. Warner.

[War Cloud]

Red skin.

[Lightning Jim]

They'll get their ammunition all right.

[Kentucky]

Everybody likes Ham Hill. I'm going to sneak back there and.

[Narrator]

Light that dude while they're busy at the front.

[Lightning Jim]

No you ain't, Lightning. If anybody's going back to light their shoes, that's going to be me.

[War Cloud]

I'm the best one to go, Lightning. My bucks can close and give me a better chance of getting back there without being.

[Narrator]

No, I can't let either one of you. But you run the risk. I'm going back there.

[War Cloud]

Oh well.

[Lightning Jim]

I can run the fastest Lightning in a short that.

[Narrator]

Hey. Come down. Come back here.

[Whitey Larson]

Can talk.

[Narrator]

Too late, buddy.

[Lightning Jim]

G. He won't ever be able to get out of the afternoon.

[Kentucky]

Not so loud.

[Narrator]

Look.

[War Cloud]

He's almost there.

[Kentucky]

Indians ain't expecting no trouble. Not have seen him before this.

[Lightning Jim]

Hey look. Looks like he's like in a few. Yeah, they've relaxed him and he has grown up along with a sweet.

[Narrator]

I see him, my dear. Unprofessive. Up.

[War Cloud]

Good.

[Narrator]

Helicon.

[Whitey Larson]

Duck.

[Kentucky]

Look. The Indians are blessed. They're on the run.

[Lightning Jim]

No opportunity to stop him. He ain't leaving for good, see.

[War Cloud]

Hey, this is going to be bad men like as not. They'll draw a cordon around us and send a rider back for the rest of the time before attacking.

[Lightning Jim]

Your goose is cooked now for sure.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Easy.

[Whitey Larson]

Thunder City boy.

[Lightning Jim]

Hey, hey, what you get in a.

[Narrator]

Horse like right to Fort Laramie for the troops?

[Lightning Jim]

No, but you can't do that. L. You never make it. The initial get you for sure.

[War Cloud]

Whitey's right, London. You ain't got one chance in a thousand to get past them.

[Lightning Jim]

Private, you can't do that. That's suicide.

[Narrator]

It's massacre if I don't get through, Whitey. And if there's any horse in the world that can make it, it's thunder. Let's go.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

It's almost dirt. Not a sign of a red skin yet.

[War Cloud]

Yeah, but there's a saying amongst us old timers, ma' am. When you see engine signs, be careful. And when you don't see no engine signs, be twice as careful.

[Lightning Jim]

You're this Dutch condone that. Them lips can start the trouble.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

Do you think Lightning Jim got through them engines?

[Lightning Jim]

Yes, I wish I knew, Toab. We heard the enemy shooting at them, but we couldn't tell whether he got past him or not.

[War Cloud]

Yeah, the sun's going down, folks. Reckon we better get to our post. Now, don't forget, Ms. Nightgrass, you and A.B. get under the wagons and shoot from there.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Yes, I got it. Bit arrest of guns and the wagons, folks. A bit of aim.

[Mrs. Snodgrass]

All right.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Come along, A.B.

[Narrator]

There they are.

[Lightning Jim]

Now, look to your aim and don't miss your letter.

[Whitey Larson]

Yeah.

[War Cloud]

They'll stop in a circle and draw closer each time they make the round. Fight your guns accordingly.

[Lightning Jim]

The doctor can talk. They got me.

[Narrator]

Wh.

[Whitey Larson]

In the arm.

[Narrator]

I. I can't shoot no more.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

Hey, the truth.

[Narrator]

Well, Thunder.

[War Cloud]

Whitney.

[Narrator]

Kentucky, you all right?

[Lightning Jim]

Sure, I'm all right, Lightning. But Kentucky, it hurt bad.

[War Cloud]

There ain't a word of truth in what he's saying. Lightning ducks are just cooking a little lead, that's all.

[Narrator]

Well, according to the tales you tell about you conduct, you're toting around a fortune in letting that big bony frame of yours already.

[Lightning Jim]

Oh, and what's more can talk you. They see that somewhere surround inside of you. You are pecking a spirit kill with bullet.

[Kentucky]

Good work, Marshall.

[Absalom Snodgrass]

It came just in time.

[War Cloud]

Marshall, for God's sake, don't let that female hear you talking about all this.

[Narrator]

Why not?

[War Cloud]

Listen, Lightning, that D. Female is so thrifty, that was she to know I had a silver bullet in me. She'd get a knife and start mining for it right here and now.

[Narrator]

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

[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 subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcast trwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-9868 8739 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 thanks for listening.