Return To Danger | Challenge of the Yukon (09-14-54)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: "Return To Danger" | Challenge of the Yukon (09-14-54)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Date: May 20, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features “Return To Danger,” an exciting digitally remastered broadcast of the classic radio series Challenge of the Yukon. Set during the Yukon gold rush, it follows Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police and his loyal dog, King, as they face off against fugitives, elaborate prison breaks, and a web of criminal intrigue. The episode highlights themes of loyalty, justice, and cunning, with thrilling action and evocative soundscapes that transport listeners back to the frozen wilds of the Klondike.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Stage: The Yukon Gold Rush

• The narrative immerses the listener in the lawless, gold-rush frontier of the Yukon.
• Sound effects and restored audio underscore the rugged environment—with snow, creaking saloon doors, gunfire, and galloping horses.

Notable Quote:
"Now as gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the Wild Northwest... Sergeant Preston of the Yukon." (01:37)

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2. Sergeant Preston’s Mission: Returning to Duty

• Sergeant Preston is returning from leave to Skagway, tasked with extraditing Matt Shane—a wanted murderer—back to Dawson for trial.
• Constable Downey is ordered to meet Preston and escort him, bringing along Preston’s loyal dog, King.

Notable Moment:
Constable Downey notices how much King misses his master—a touch of emotion for the stalwart canine hero:

“He isn’t here yet, King, but he will be soon. We’re going down to Skagway to meet him. You’ll see him tomorrow. Yes, boy, I know. You’ve missed him a lot, haven’t you?” (07:50) — Constable Downey

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3. Conspiracy in Skagway: Criminals Plot

• In a Skagway waterfront café, criminals Bart Nielsen and Slick Daniels plot with Dirk Gordon (undercover as a sailor) to break Matt Shane free by ambushing Sergeant Preston as he disembarks.
• They conspire to use a crowd as cover, take out Preston, and escape via motorboat to Juneau and beyond.

Notable Quote:

“You get Matt to it and head for Juneau. I’ve got a friend who owns a schooner there. He’s all ready to set sail for Tahiti.” (08:36) — Slick Daniels

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4. Constable Ambushed: Downey Attacked

• Downey, searching for the marshal, is identified and assaulted by Bart Nielsen.
• A brutal barroom brawl ends with Downey knocked out, bound, and hidden away—his uniform to be used by one of the conspirators.

Memorable Sequence:

“When I don’t like a face, I change it to suit me. Like this.” (11:16) — Bart Nielsen, before the fight breaks out

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5. Sergeant Preston’s Arrival and Distraction

• While preparations are made to transfer a sick passenger for emergency surgery (a subplot highlighting Preston’s compassion and resourcefulness), Dirk Gordon volunteers to help—really intending to facilitate the prison break.

Notable Interaction:

“Will you be taking your prisoner ashore with you, Sergeant?” (14:49)
“No, he’ll stay in the brig until the ship docks.” (14:52) — Gordon & Preston

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6. King’s Heroic Instincts

• Locked in a stable, King senses Downey is in danger and escapes, eventually leading Preston to his friend.
• The reunion between man and dog is filled with emotion, highlighting King's key role in Preston’s success.

Notable Moment:

“King! … Oh boy. Have you come over lately?” (19:36) — Sergeant Preston, upon being reunited with King

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7. The Race to Stop the Breakout

• After King leads Preston to rescue Downey, they uncover the full plan: Dirk Gordon and Daniels (in Mountie disguise) go to the City of Portland’s captain to obtain Shane, using deception and threats.
• Preston and Downey must act swiftly, coordinating with the marshal and anticipating every criminal move.

Key Sequence:

• Preston anticipates sabotage, having removed spark plugs from the criminals’ boat, ensuring they can’t escape even if they reach the water. (27:33)

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8. Climactic Confrontation

• An action-packed chase and shootout ensue on the harbor as the marshal’s boat closes in on the drifting criminals.
• Preston and lawmen subdue and arrest Gordon, Daniels, Shane, and Nielsen, foiling the plot.

Notable Quote:

“A motor needs spark plugs, Downey. I borrowed theirs.” (27:35) — Sergeant Preston, revealing his cleverness

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9. Resolution and Homecoming

• Justice is served:
  • Daniels and Gordon are charged with piracy and mutiny.
  • Shane is secured for his murder trial.
  • Nielsen faces assault charges.
• Preston, King, and Rex return to their Yukon headquarters, warmly welcomed.

Closing Lines:

“We’re together again. And I have an idea. We’ll be sharing a lot of excitement this winter. But there’s one sure thing. Matt Shane will have no part of it. He’s behind bars...” (31:18) — Sergeant Preston

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Dramatic Reunion:
  “King! … Oh boy. Have you come over lately?” (19:36) — Preston greets his beloved dog
• Mountie Bravado:
  “Let him try it. Come on, King.” (23:15) — Preston, ready for a showdown
• Resourcefulness:
  “A motor needs spark plugs, Downey. I borrowed theirs.” (27:35) — Preston, on outwitting the criminals

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Important Timestamps

• 01:37 – The golden-age radio intro sets the tone and introduces Sergeant Preston and King.
• 04:45 – Constable Downey gets his assignment to meet Preston and learns of the dangers ahead.
• 08:36 – Criminals plot their ambush in Skagway.
• 11:16 – Downey is attacked and knocked out in the saloon.
• 13:40 – Sergeant Preston on the City of Portland prepares to go ashore.
• 19:36 – King and Preston are reunited.
• 23:31 – Preston faces down Bart Nielsen on the dock in a pivotal fight.
• 25:16–27:38 – Escape attempt on the ship; Preston reveals he sabotaged the criminals’ launch.
• 28:48 – Criminals face justice; plans for Shane’s trial are set.
• 31:18 – Preston and his team return home, reflecting on their latest victory.

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Episode Tone and Style

• The storytelling is brisk, dramatic, and earnest, in classic mid-century radio style.
• Character voices are distinctive, action is tightly narrated, and climactic moments unfold with vivid audio staging.
• The emotional bond between human and animal, and the unwavering duty of Preston, permeate the script.

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Final Thoughts

This meticulously restored “Return to Danger” episode is a dynamic snapshot of the golden age of radio drama, offering adventure, suspense, and hearty moral themes. With charismatic performances, clever plotting, and immersive sound design, it’s an ideal listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to the Old Time Radio Westerns universe.

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Transcript

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[Podcast Host Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly from your enjoyment. You can find more Western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode

[Narrator]

now as gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the Wild Northwest. Quaker popped wheat and Quaker Popped rice. The breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the Northwest breaking the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers.

[Sergeant Preston]

Unhing on you hunches

[Constable Downey]

gold.

[Narrator]

Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches back to the days of the Gold Rush with Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puff tweets. It's neat. And when you hear the shooting, you're darn tootin that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns. Well fellas and girls, Sergeant Preston, Yukon King and all of us want to welcome you back. Hope you had a good vacation and are all set to hear some thrilling tales of the gold rush days in the rugged Yukon. And say the more you hear about the great Northwest multi Sergeant Preston what's up baby?

[Sergeant Preston]

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to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details. And his strength and stamina. The more you want to be like him. And here's a tip. Eat a good breakfast every morning. Be sure to have a heaping bowl full of delicious crisp Quaker popped wheat or rice. Top it with milk and sliced bananas or other fruit and boy oh boy, you'll feel like you can take on any desperado in the Yukon. Start tomorrow morning to eat the one shot from guns. Swell tasting Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice. Late one afternoon in September, Constable Downey entered the office of the inspector at the Northwest Mounted Police post located in White Pass, the gateway to the Yukon.

[Constable Downey]

You sent for me, sir? Yes, Constable Downey, I have an assignment for you. Yes, sir. Sergeant Preston is returning from his leave. He'll arrive in Skagway tomorrow morning on the city of Portland. It'll be good to have him back. It will indeed. Take two extra horses with you. One for the sergeant, his own, of course, Rex. And another for the prisoner he's bringing back from San Francisco. Prisoner? Matt Shane. Shane? He's wanted for the Crawford murder in Dawson. Exactly. The sergeant was visiting friends in San Francisco and he had a hunch that Shane might be found there. So he couldn't resist the temptation of going to work. That doesn't surprise me. His vacation turned into a busman's holiday. He started looking for Shane, found him, and with the help of the San Francisco police, Shane was taken into custody. Good. There was an extradition hearing and now the sergeant is bringing him back here for trial. Now, about tomorrow. Donnie. Yes, sir. As I told you, the sergeant ship is docking at Skagway. That's only a few miles from here at the foot of the pass. But it's American territory. We have no authority there. You'll have to get permission from the town marshal to carry a gun. Yes, sir. You may need it. The marshal's finding it difficult to preserve law and daughter. Shane has friends in Skagway. There may be trouble getting him from the ship up here. We'll be on the lookout for him. Well, I'd suggest that you leave at once and spend the night in One of the hotels near the harbor. The ship's due in at daybreak. Very well. Inspector, I wonder if I might take someone else with me. Can't spare another man. I'm not a man. I was thinking of King, the sergeant's dog. Oh, I'm sure you've noticed him, sir. He's grieving. This has been the longest he and the sergeant have ever been separated. And, well, have you noticed his eyes? Indeed I have. It would be a shame to delay his reunion with the sergeant any longer than was necessary. I agree. Downey, take him with you. Thank you, sir.

[Narrator]

During the summer, King had accompanied Downey on several trips. And when he saw the constable leading Rex from his stall, he raced toward them.

[Constable Downey]

Well, hello, King. I've been looking for you. There's good news, boy. The sergeant's coming home.

[Narrator]

King understood his master's name and the word home. In spite of the evidence of sight and scent, a wild hope took possession of him. Could it be the sergeant was somewhere around? He looked to the right and left. Then he whirled and ran to the end of the stable yard, looking down the trail that led to Skagway and the sea, the direction in which the sergeant had disappeared three months before. There was no sign of him. The constable called to him, come back here, King. King trotted back, his eyes intent on the constable's face, trying hard to understand.

[Constable Downey]

He isn't here yet, King, but he will be soon. We're going down to Skagway to meet him. You'll see him tomorrow. Yes, boy, I know. You've missed him a lot, haven't you?

[Narrator]

The constable reached Skagway at 9 o' clock that evening. There was room for his horses in the stable at the rear of his hotel, and he left King there with Rex. Then he started out to find the town marshal in order to get permission to carry a gun the following day. But Skagway's only lawman was not in his office, and Downey was told that he was making a tour of the waterfront cafes. At a corner table in one of them, Slick Daniels and Bart Nielsen, a brute of a man, were talking in guarded tones.

[Constable Downey]

I'm always interested in earning $500. Good. I got a letter from Dirk Gordon a week ago. Even Frisco. Yeah. Matt Shane was picked up there. Sergeant Preston's bringing him back here for trial. Tough breaks. He's due to arrive here tomorrow morning. In the city of Portland. Uh huh. Dirk will be on board too. East Shipping is a member of the crew. He'll give us a signal when the sergeant's just about ready to bring Matt ashore. And what happens? We'll take care of the sergeant as soon as he steps off the gangplank. I've got a fast motorboat, a few pairs down. You get mad to it and head for Juneau. I've got a friend who owns a schooner there. He's all ready to set sail for Tahiti. Oh, Just a few questions.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right.

[Constable Downey]

Shoot. Who takes care of Sergeant Preston? I do. You? How? With a gun. Oh.

[Sergeant Preston]

Then how do I earn my 500?

[Constable Downey]

There'll be a crowd on the dock. You're to make sure no one tries to stop Dirk and Matt and me from getting away.

[Sergeant Preston]

Clear the road.

[Constable Downey]

Yeah, that's the idea. Don't you worry.

[Sergeant Preston]

Nobody will try to stop you with me around.

[Constable Downey]

When do I get paid? Dirk has the money. He'll pay you just before we leave in the motorboat. Or you can come to Juneau with us if you want to.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah, that's what I'll do.

[Constable Downey]

Hey, Mary. Look who just walked in. Mountie.

[Sergeant Preston]

What are you worried about?

[Constable Downey]

That isn't Preston. I know who it is. Name is Downey. My bets are he's here to meet the sergeant. Sounds likely. It's bad. Two of them guarding Matt. It'll be a lot tougher to get him away. You. You want to invest another hundred? What? Give me another hundred and I'll put this red coat out of commission for you. Oh, never mind. Is it a deal? Yeah. You watch.

[Narrator]

Constable Downey shouldered his way through the crowd in the cafe looking for the marshal. When he failed to find him, he started back toward the door, but Bart Nielsen stepped in front of him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where do you think you're going?

[Constable Downey]

I'm leaving. What's the matter?

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't you like our company?

[Constable Downey]

I'm looking for the marshal. He isn't here, so I'm leaving. What's the idea of wearing that uniform down here? Your government doesn't object to my wearing it.

[Sergeant Preston]

I don't see eye to eye with my government on a lot of things. I don't like your uniform, and I don't like your face.

[Constable Downey]

If you don't mind, I'm leaving.

[Sergeant Preston]

But I do mind.

[Constable Downey]

You're not going anywhere.

[Sergeant Preston]

I don't like your face. When I don't like a face, I change it to suit me. Like this.

[Narrator]

Mark swung with his left. The constable ducked, but the big man followed up his left with a right that caught Downey on the side of the head. The constable crashed into a table, and Bart followed Up his advantage, Downie evaded his first swing and getting in close, drove left and right to Bart's midsection. The big man was forced back against the bar. His hand reached out to steady himself, and he touched a bottle. He grabbed it firmly and brought it down on the constable's head. The policeman dropped to the floor, and in the next instant, the owner of the cafe was around the bar. Hey, what's the idea of hitting him with that bottle?

[Sergeant Preston]

I heard he was bar.

[Constable Downey]

He isn't even wearing a gun.

[Sergeant Preston]

How bad is he hurt? He's all right. I didn't hit him hard.

[Constable Downey]

I ought to have the marshal put you in jail.

[Sergeant Preston]

A good customer like me.

[Constable Downey]

You wouldn't turn me in jail. Just because you're big, you think you can make trouble whenever you want to. Well, I'm sick and tired of it. I ought to call.

[Sergeant Preston]

Will you keep your shirt on?

[Constable Downey]

I know that guy Blake, and I'll take him to his hotel.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll bring him around. I'll apologize. It'll be all right.

[Constable Downey]

There's no need for you to get mixed up. All right, now get him out of here. Get him out of here fast. Sure. Come on. You need any help?

[Narrator]

Come on.

[Sergeant Preston]

No, I can carry him. Come on. Well, should I die him in the harbor?

[Constable Downey]

No. Someone's sure to be watching this. Take him to my cabin. Follow me.

[Narrator]

It was at that moment that King, who had been sleeping just outside Rex's stall, woke with a start. He jumped to his feet and ran to the door of the stable. It was padlock from the outside. A stable man was having a late supper. There was no chance for King to get out until he returned. It was also at that moment that Sergeant Preston on board the city of Portland, knocked at the door of the captain's cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, it's you, Sergeant. Yes, Captain. I've just been talking with a mate. He tells me that we'll clear the entrance to Skagway harbor in less than half an hour. That's correct. But that you don't intend to bring the ship into the docks until dawn. It's too dark at night. We'll drop anchor just inside the harbor. I see. I just had another look at the man in 405.

[Constable Downey]

How is he?

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm sure of it Now. If the penicillin is acute, he should be operated on as quickly as possible. And to save his life, we should dock the ship. Not if you believe it's dangerous, Captain. I can take him ashore in a small boat. There is a doctor in Skagway. Who's qualified to operate? Yes, Dr. Carson, a good friend of mine. Good.

[Constable Downey]

I'll make arrangements for the Jacob's ladder

[Sergeant Preston]

to be dropped and the boat to be lowered as soon as we anchor. Thank you, Captain. I'll see that the patient is moved to the boat deck.

[Narrator]

Fine.

[Constable Downey]

Sergeant, I heard you talking to the captain. Yeah, I'm off duty now. I'll be glad to row you ashore and give you a hand with a sick man.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, thanks, but of course we'd have to get the captain's permission.

[Constable Downey]

I'll fix that up right now.

[Sergeant Preston]

Very well. If you'll meet me down at 405. Sure, sure thing.

[Constable Downey]

Will you be taking your prisoner ashore with you, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

No, he'll stay in the brig until the ship docks. I'll be coming back here tonight.

[Constable Downey]

I see.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, by the way, what's your name?

[Constable Downey]

Gordon, Sergeant. They call me Dirk Gordon.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Do you know what I've got in my hands right now? I've got those new packages of Quaker Puff Tweet and Quaker Puff Rice. The big packages with a gun on the front. And the reason I'm holding these packages is because I want to tell you fellas and girls something about the famous smiling Quaker man who's also on the front of these packages. You know, he's your guarantee that you're getting the original crisp fresh chopped from gun cereal.

[Sergeant Preston]

My, but you're flattering.

[Narrator]

Yes, like I say. Who said that?

[Sergeant Preston]

Why, I did.

[Narrator]

You? Who are you?

[Sergeant Preston]

Why, I'm the Quaker man on the package. You were just talking about me.

[Narrator]

I was. But gee, I never expected you to say anything.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, I don't often though I like to.

[Narrator]

You do?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. I like to say good morning to all the boys and girls and their families when they have me on their breakfast table.

[Narrator]

Well, that would be nice. But look, why not say hello now?

[Sergeant Preston]

Fine idea. Hello, boys and girls. When you see me smiling at you from the package, that's my way of saying good morning and once more, I'm mighty glad to see you enjoy those breakfasts of Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice.

[Narrator]

Yes, fellas, and girls, they're the world's tastiest breakfast. Delicious. Ready to serve. Wheat or rice, shot from guns. Just remember to get these crisp, tender, king sized greens exploded up to eight times normal size. Look for the big packages with a smiling Quaker man on the front. He's your guarantee that you're getting the original, the one and only Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed Rice, the breakfast cereal. Shot from gun. Now to continue. As soon as the city of Portland dropped anchor, Sergeant Preston, with Dirk Gordon's assistance, took the sick man from the ship to Dr. Carson's home in Skagway. Meanwhile, at the hotel where Constable Downey had registered, the stableman returned from his supper. When he opened the stable door, King slipped out. Somehow he knew that his friend, Constable Downey was in trouble. He picked up the constable's scent, followed it to the marshal's office, down to the waterfront, then through a series of alleys to Slick Daniel's cabin. He circled it, growling low in his throat. At the doctor's home, the sergeant talked with Dirk Gordon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, Gordon. The doctor decided to operate at once. He wants me to help with the anesthetic.

[Constable Downey]

Oh, chloroform, huh? Yes, Sergeant. I. I can't stand the smell of that stuff. It'll be all right if I wait for you down by the boat?

[Sergeant Preston]

That would be fine.

[Constable Downey]

I'll see you later.

[Narrator]

From the doctors, Dirk went directly to Slick Daniel's cabin. King saw him enter and caught a glimpse of Constable Downey lying on the floor, bound and gagged. The door was closed and barred. King raised his nose to the sky and howled. But suddenly his despair changed to excitement. There is a quality in a dog's love which provides him with a special instinct in everything concerning his master. King had received no message from his senses, and yet he knew. And his heart was filled with the knowledge that the sergeant was somewhere in the town. He raced toward the main street. It took over half an hour of frantic searching before he located Dr. Carson's home. He threw himself against the door in the living room. With the operation successfully completed, the sergeant was putting on his tunic.

[Sergeant Preston]

King.

[Narrator]

King jumped up and the sergeant hugged him close.

[Sergeant Preston]

King. Oh boy. Have you come over lately?

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[Sergeant Preston]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date? Oh, no.

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[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

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[Sergeant Preston]

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[Constable Downey]

Meet me.

[Sergeant Preston]

Are you absent without leave?

[Narrator]

But in spite of his great joy at seeing his master once more, King didn't forget for a moment that the constable needed help. He pulled away from the sergeant and ran a few steps down the street, begging the sergeant to follow him.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's something wrong. All right, King. I'll go with you. Thanks for everything, Doctor. I'm on my way.

[Narrator]

When they reached Slick Daniel's cabin, there was no light showing. The sergeant knocked on the door. There was a faint sound inside. The sergeant opened the door. The moon showing for a moment through the clouds revealed Constable Downey, dressed in a blue shirt and dungarees, lying on the floor, bound and gagged.

[Sergeant Preston]

Downey. I'll get this gag out of your mouth first. There.

[Constable Downey]

Thanks.

[Sergeant Preston]

What happened to you?

[Constable Downey]

I came down here to meet you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hold still while I cut these ropes.

[Constable Downey]

I was looking for the marshal to get permission to carry arms. A big bruiser called Nielsen picked a fight with me in a cafe and knocked me out. He and a friend of his called Slick Daniels brought me here. They're planning to help Matt Shane escape there.

[Sergeant Preston]

Matt's still locked up in the brig aboard ship.

[Constable Downey]

I know. I know all about it. How? A sailor came here about half an hour ago from the ship. He said he'd come ashore with you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gordon?

[Constable Downey]

That's the name. A friend of Shane's. He's the one who's paying Daniels and Nielsen to arrange his escape.

[Sergeant Preston]

Paying Daniels and Nielsen? No wonder he was so anxious to come ashore with me. Any idea where they are now?

[Constable Downey]

Yes. I know just what they're planning.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let's have it.

[Constable Downey]

Daniels is wearing my uniform. He has a motor launch. He and Gordon are going out to the ship in it. Daniels means to tell the captain that you've sent him for Matt.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm getting back fast. You get the marshal and bring him out to the ship.

[Constable Downey]

I'd better come with you.

[Sergeant Preston]

No, we'll need the marshal's authority, and he has a motorboat. We'll need that, too, in case I don't get back in time to stop the captain from turning Shane over to Daniels. We'll have to follow them.

[Constable Downey]

All right, I'll get the marshal. But there's one more thing.

[Narrator]

What?

[Constable Downey]

They left Nielsen on shore down at the waterfront. He has orders to stop you from going out to the ship.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let him try it. Come on, King.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, the sergeant and King reached the dock where the small boat from the steamer had been tied. The huge figure of a man stepped from the shadows to bar their way.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston. Oh, you're Nielsen. Yeah. How come you know my name? The constable told me. Oh, so you found him.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now that I've found you, it gives me a chance to even the score. Come on, redcoat. I'll beat you to a pulp. How's this for a starter?

[Narrator]

If Bart's first blow had landed, he might have made good his boast. But the sergeant dropped his shoulder and Bart missed. Then the sergeant went to work, and the fury of his attack drove Bart back from the the dock until a warehouse cut off any further retreat. By that time, he could do no more than try to defend himself. His defense was futile. Driven by the need for speed, the sergeant dropped the big man's guard with a blow to the midsection. Then he crashed a right to the jaw. Bart sagged to the ground. A few seconds later, his hands were handcuffed behind him, and the sergeant issued an order.

[Sergeant Preston]

Stay here, King. Guard him.

[Narrator]

On board the city of Portland, Dirk Gordon had taken Slick Daniels to the captain's cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes?

[Constable Downey]

Yes? A northwest mounted policeman to see you, sir. I'm coming. I'm constable Downey, captain.

[Sergeant Preston]

I have a message from sergeant Preston. How's the patient?

[Narrator]

Oh, he's all right.

[Sergeant Preston]

They're operating. You sent a message?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm to take his prisoner ashore. I believe you have the key to the brig. That's true. I suppose you have a written order from the sergeant? No, I don't. I'd prefer one, but I have instructions. I'm sure the sergeant will understand. When the prisoner was delivered into my custody for the duration of the trip, I signed a paper acknowledging my responsibility. I must have a release from the sergeant. It'll take only a few minutes to return to shore.

[Constable Downey]

And get it inside. Captain. What? Back. Don't raise your voice or I'll use this gun. You're an imposter. Shut the door, Gordon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah.

[Constable Downey]

Where's the key to the brig?

[Sergeant Preston]

This is an act of piracy. And you, Gordon, you're a mutineer.

[Constable Downey]

Your keys.

[Sergeant Preston]

I have no intention of giving you my keys.

[Constable Downey]

They're probably in his desk.

[Sergeant Preston]

I warn you, Gordon. Shut up.

[Constable Downey]

Yeah.

[Sergeant Preston]

Here they are. For the last time.

[Constable Downey]

Last time. All right. I'm gonna stick a towel in your mouth and tie you up. Don't say it. Do it right.

[Narrator]

Minutes later, the sergeant climbed aboard the steamer. First he went to his stateroom and buckled on his gun belt. Then he hurried to the captain's cabin. There was no answer to his knock and he looked through the porthole. He could see a dim shape on the floor. He set his shoulder against the door. It gave way and then.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll have you free in a moment, Captain. Pirates. Mutineers. I gathered. Gordon and a man wearing a policeman's uniform have paid you a visit. They took my keys. They've gone to release your prisoner. They're still on board. Their motor launch is tied to the foot of the Jacob's ladder. Why didn't you set it adrift? Then they'd have no way to leave. It might be better to let them get clear of the ship, Captain. Why? If you don't mind your prisoner escaping, that's your business. But I intend to make sure that pirate, that mutineer, get 20 years. I didn't say we'd let them escape, Captain. They're armed, though. If there were a gunfight on board this ship, a great many innocent people might be hurt. I intend to stop them. Look, there they are. Near the bottom of the ladder. They're stepping into their launch. Give me your gun, Sergeant. They'll not get away. They're casting off and the tide will take them in toward shore. That's a motorboat. It was. Look, Captain, here comes another motorboat. Marshal and Constable Downey are in it. Yes, and King and Nielsen, too. I'm going over the side. I want to be at the foot of the ladder when the marshal boat comes alongside.

[Narrator]

You better catch those crooks.

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry.

[Narrator]

When the marshal's motorboat edged up to the foot of the Jacob's ladder, the sergeant jumped aboard.

[Sergeant Preston]

Full speed ahead, Marshall. You were too late, Sergeant. Their trick worked.

[Constable Downey]

They got away with Shane.

[Sergeant Preston]

Not quite. That's their boat over to the right. I know that launch. It's faster than this one. Not tonight. It isn't.

[Constable Downey]

Well, their motor isn't going. They're drifting.

[Sergeant Preston]

A motor needs spark plugs, Downey. I borrowed theirs.

[Constable Downey]

You what?

[Sergeant Preston]

I took them as I came aboard the ship. Shall we circle the launch, Marshal, and give them a chance to surrender before we open fire? One chance. That's all. Ahoy there. You're under arrest. Get your hands up. There's your answer.

[Narrator]

I'll leave the shooting to you and the constable, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll have to keep my hands on the wheel.

[Narrator]

A marshal handled his boat with skill and made sure that the criminals in the launch had the worst possible target.

[Sergeant Preston]

Let him have it.

[Narrator]

First, Daniel stopped the bullet. Then Shane. And Gordon lost all desire to fight.

[Sergeant Preston]

Up with your hands. All right, all right. I got him up. He has two. But all that's left to do, Marshal, is give them a toll wire two back to the.

[Constable Downey]

Yes.

[Sergeant Preston]

The captain intends to charge Daniels with piracy and Gordon with mutiny. I'd better give Shane some first aid or I'll never get him to Dawson. Enough, Sergeant. That big hulk Nielsen in the bottom of the boat is my prisoner. He's charged with assault and he'll spend the next few years in my jail.

[Narrator]

When the city of Portland made its return trip to San Francisco, Daniels and Gordon took Shane's place in the brig and faced sentences of 20 years on their arrival in California, conviction was certain. Barton Nielsen went to jail in Skagway for his criminal assault on Constable Downey. And two weeks later, after Sergeant Preston had delivered Matt Shane into custody at Dawson.

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[Sergeant Preston]

Q U E-T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited.

[Narrator]

Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

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[Sergeant Preston]

Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this your first date? Oh no.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

Anyways, get a'@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.

[Sergeant Preston]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Narrator]

The headquarters which had come to be his home was filled with old friends anxious to welcome him back to the Yukon.

[Constable Downey]

It's good to see you again, sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thank you sir. Hello sergeant.

[Narrator]

Welcome back.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thanks Mike. You sure missed you. I've missed you. All of you. Hello Tom. Bill. Good to see you, Jack.

[Narrator]

It was some time before the sergeant was free to unsaddle Rex, give him a rub down and turn him into his own stall.

[Sergeant Preston]

There you are Rex.

[Constable Downey]

Home at last.

[Sergeant Preston]

And glad of it, aren't you? How about you King? Well, I feel the same way. We're together again. And I have an idea. We'll be sharing a lot of excitement this winter. But there's one sure thing. Matt Shane will have no part in it. He's behind bars. The crown prosecutor says he'll pay for his crime. So Rex and King, we can safely say our first case.

[Narrator]

We'll return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Say kids, ask your mother how many times she's heard something like this at the breakfast table.

[Sergeant Preston]

Ho hum. Same old thing to eat.

[Narrator]

Well, here's something that'll make appetites perk up and take notice. Including yours and dad's.

[Sergeant Preston]

Just pour out bowlfuls of delicious crisp tender Quaker puffed wheat or Quaker puffed rice.

[Narrator]

Top with milk or cream and sliced bananas, chilled peaches or strawberries and say

[Sergeant Preston]

when you and your family taste the toasty nut like flavor of the good

[Narrator]

natural grains of wheat or rice, the sunny natural flavor that old mother nature puts into them. You'll want this breakfast treat every morning. Remember, there's no sugar added to Quaker popped rice and wheat.

[Sergeant Preston]

There's no factory sweetening.

[Narrator]

Here's the beauty of the ones shot from guns. You and your family can sweeten them

[Sergeant Preston]

with sugar to suit your own special taste.

[Narrator]

So wake up your appetites every morning with the sunny natural flavor of delicious Quaker Pop Tweet and Quaker puffed rice.

[Sergeant Preston]

And remember, when you eat a better breakfast, you enjoy a better day.

[Narrator]

The rarest of all fur bearing creatures brought Sergeant Preston face to face with killers and at the crucial instant, the Sergeant's gun misfired. For chills and thrills, be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendall Campbell Muir Incorporated, and directed by Fred Flowerday. Today's adventure was written by Tom Dougal. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Brace Beamer. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at this same time by Quaker Pop Tweet and Quaker Pop Rice, the breakfast cereals chopped from gun. This is Fred Poy wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Popped Wheat and Quaker Popped Rice.

[Constable Downey]

So long.

[Narrator]

This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Sergeant Preston]

Foreign.

[Podcast Host Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com

[Sergeant Preston]

Become one

[Podcast Host Andrew Rines]

of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739. This episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

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[Sergeant Preston]

to play social casino void where prohibited.

[Narrator]

Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this your first date? Oh no.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Advertiser]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Sergeant Preston]

Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty if you work

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