The Blow Off – Tales of the Texas Rangers (11-25-51)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Blow Off – Tales of the Texas Rangers (11-25-51)"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
• Host/Author: Andrew Rines
• Episode: The Blow Off – Tales of the Texas Rangers
• Original Air Date: November 25, 1951
• Release Date: March 19, 2025

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Introduction

In the episode titled "The Blow Off," listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of Texas through a riveting reenactment of a true story from the archives of the Texas Rangers. Hosted by Andrew Rines, this episode showcases the exceptional talents of Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson, weaving a narrative filled with suspense, deception, and justice. The meticulously restored audio brings the Wild West to life, capturing every nuance from the creak of saloon doors to the distant thunder of hooves.

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Plot Overview

Initial Encounter at the Gas Station ([00:30] - [03:50])

The story begins on a hot night, June 16, 1947, at a remote mobile gas station near Glenwood, Texas. John Bishop and his wife, Bell Bishop, run into Ranger Jace Pearson and Sheriff Pruitt when their vehicle breaks down due to a busted gas pump handle. The couple, clearly anxious about their dwindling fuel, engages in a tense conversation with the lawmen.

Quote Highlight:

• John Bishop ([03:04]): "I'll think of something. Well, that's the end of the."

As fuel levels drop, the Bishops concoct a plan to return with gas, which inadvertently leads them to discover a dead body at their gas station—a pivotal moment that sets the investigation in motion.

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Discovery and Investigation

Discovering the Body ([05:01] - [08:37])

John and Bell Bishop stumble upon Jim Cartwright's lifeless body, leading to an immediate police response. Ranger Pearson arrives to assess the situation, questioning the Bishops about their connection to the victim. Suspicion arises as the Bishops claim no prior acquaintance with Cartwright and provide vague alibis.

Key Developments:

• Ranger Pearson scrutinizes the scene, noting inconsistencies in the fingerprints found on the telephone receiver compared to those on the body.
• Quote Highlight:
  • Ranger Jace Pearson ([09:16]): "If it is, I'd sure like to know what its duplicate was doing on Courtright's cash drawer."

The investigation tightens as Pearson and Sheriff Pruitt realize that the Bishops might be involved in more than just a simple robbery gone wrong.

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Tracking the Suspects

Following the Trail ([15:01] - [22:21])

The Rangers delve deeper, tracking the Bishops through various carnival routes without success. Their persistence leads them to Rocky Pass, where they encounter another carnival but find no leads. Frustration mounts until Ranger Pearson deduces a possible connection between the Bishops and a specific exhibit involving a two-headed baby illusion.

Quote Highlight:

• Ranger Jace Pearson ([16:38]): "They have to be working a show like this."

Their keen observation skills and determination eventually pinpoint the Bishops to a small, dilapidated ranch house, marking a significant breakthrough in the case.

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Climactic Confrontation

Showdown at the Ranch ([25:10] - [27:40])

As dawn breaks, Pearson and Pruitt close in on the Bishops' hideout. A strategic approach is planned, with Pearson taking the back entrance while Pruitt engages from the front. Tensions escalate when the Bishops attempt to flee, resulting in a high-stakes pursuit that tests the Rangers' resolve.

Key Moments:

• The Rangers' tactical maneuvers showcase their expertise and commitment to upholding the law amidst danger.
• Quote Highlight:
  • Ranger Jace Pearson ([26:02]): "We'll both need it."

Ultimately, the Bishops are apprehended without further violence, leading to justice being served.

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Resolution and Aftermath

Justice Served ([27:40] - [28:00])

Belle Bishop is brought to trial, where evidence presented by the Rangers solidifies her role as an accessory in Jim Cartwright's murder. Her conviction and sentencing mark the culmination of a meticulous investigation, highlighting the unwavering dedication of the Texas Rangers.

Quote Highlight:

• Narration ([27:40]): "Belle Bishop was found guilty as an accessory in the murder of Jim Cartwright. Her sentence, 50 years in the women's prison at Gorey."

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• John Bishop ([03:04]): "I'll think of something. Well, that's the end of the."
• Ranger Jace Pearson ([09:16]): "If it is, I'd sure like to know what its duplicate was doing on Courtright's cash drawer."
• Ranger Jace Pearson ([16:38]): "They have to be working a show like this."
• Ranger Jace Pearson ([26:02]): "We'll both need it."
• Narration ([27:40]): "Belle Bishop was found guilty as an accessory in the murder of Jim Cartwright. Her sentence, 50 years in the women's prison at Gorey."

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Characters

• Ranger Jace Pearson (Joel McCray): The determined and astute Texas Ranger leading the investigation.
• Sheriff Pruitt: The supportive sheriff collaborating closely with Ranger Pearson.
• John Bishop: A desperate man running a struggling gas station who becomes entangled in the murder mystery.
• Bell Bishop: John’s wife, whose actions and motives come under scrutiny during the investigation.
• Jim Cartwright: The victim whose death ignites the unfolding drama.

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Key Themes and Insights

Law and Order vs. Desperation: The episode explores the fine line between maintaining law and succumbing to desperation. The Bishops' actions reflect the lengths individuals may go to survive, even if it means crossing moral boundaries.

Dedication of Law Enforcement: Ranger Pearson and Sheriff Pruitt embody the unwavering commitment of law enforcement officers. Their relentless pursuit of justice, despite obstacles, underscores the integrity and bravery inherent in the Texas Rangers.

Deception and Revelation: The narrative masterfully portrays deception, with the Bishops attempting to mask their involvement. The Rangers' ability to uncover hidden truths highlights the importance of diligence and intuition in investigations.

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Conclusion

"The Blow Off – Tales of the Texas Rangers" is a compelling episode that encapsulates the essence of classic Western radio dramas. Through expertly crafted storytelling and vivid character portrayals, Andrew Rines and Joel McCray deliver an engaging tale of crime, investigation, and justice. The digital restoration enhances the listening experience, allowing modern audiences to appreciate the timeless narratives of the Wild West.

For those unfamiliar with the episode, this summary provides a comprehensive overview, capturing the pivotal moments and underlying themes that make "The Blow Off" a standout installment in the "Tales of the Texas Rangers" series.

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Further Engagement

Listeners are encouraged to explore more episodes of "Old Time Radio Westerns" for additional stories that delve into the heroic exploits of the Texas Rangers and other iconic Western tales. Engaging with the podcast community through Facebook and Discord can further enrich the experience, allowing fans to share insights and discuss their favorite moments.

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Thank you for tuning into this summary of "The Blow Off – Tales of the Texas Rangers." We hope it inspires you to revisit or discover this classic episode and continue your journey into the golden age of radio Westerns.

Transcript

[John Bishop]

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 November 25, 1951, and the title is the Blow Off. Hope you enjoy, and again, thanks for listening.

[Joel McCray]

The National Broadcasting company presents Joel McCray in Tales of the Texas Rangers from Hollywood. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson, Texas Moore. Than 260,000 square miles and 50 men who make up the most famous and oldest law enforcement body in North America. Now, from the files of the Texas Rangers come these stories based on fact Only names, dates and places are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record. Case for tonight, the Blow Off.

[John Bishop]

It is approximately 11pm June 16, 1947. Aaron Courtright is watering the gravel apron of his mobile gas station at the intersection of a farm road and Highway 75. A few miles south of Glenwood, Texas. A car drives up to the pumps. Yeah.

[Duke Bishop]

Howdy, folks.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Howdy.

[John Bishop]

Fill her up, you bet you. Hey, you got a telephone here?

[Duke Bishop]

Yep, over in the office there.

[John Bishop]

Let's try that call again, Belle.

[Duke Bishop]

Okay, just give me a second. Coil up this hose and I'll be right with you.

[John Bishop]

Yeah.

[Duke Bishop]

Pretty night, ain't it?

[John Bishop]

Yeah. Yeah, sure is. There we are.

[Duke Bishop]

Filler up, you see?

[John Bishop]

Yeah. What's special?

[Duke Bishop]

Oh, sorry, Mr. Truck. Busted the handle off the hand prop on my special regular. Be all right.

[John Bishop]

I got no choice, have I? My car's about empty.

[Duke Bishop]

Taking kind of a chance, weren't you?

[John Bishop]

Why, what do you mean?

[Duke Bishop]

Yeah, he's about to close up. Next station is better than 30 miles away ahead.

[John Bishop]

Well, we made it. That's what counts. Look, can't you hurry it up?

[Duke Bishop]

Oh, sure. Sure, man. Hey, what you doing in there?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Hey.

[Duke Bishop]

Hey, you. Get away from that cash draw.

[John Bishop]

Never mind her. Just hope this gun don't blow your head off. I'll shove that nozzle into the tank.

[Duke Bishop]

You ain't getting my money, you old fool. Right I will. Getting killed.

[John Bishop]

Get to the car quick, you dummy.

[Bell Bishop]

Me? I got the dough.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Dinner.

[John Bishop]

What'd you go for it so soon for? I didn't get a chance to get any gas in the tank.

[Bell Bishop]

You had plenty of time to get gas. How'd I know you were going to stand there gabbing instead? Now what do we do?

[John Bishop]

Try to make it through the next station.

[Bell Bishop]

What a spot.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Duke Bishop, a smart operator.

[John Bishop]

Shut up, will you?

[Duke Bishop]

That don't help.

[John Bishop]

I'll think of something. Well, that's the end of the.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Guess how far we come.

[John Bishop]

10, 11 miles.

[Bell Bishop]

Let's flag us a ride and get out of here.

[John Bishop]

And leave the car? Wouldn't that be smart? Like leaving our calling cards pinned to that stiff back there. This buggy's ours, don't forget.

[Bell Bishop]

Can't we take the license plates off and ditch them or something?

[John Bishop]

Oh, why does a woman have to be so dumb? There's a motor number. You can't get rid of that. Come on, pile out. Wait a minute. I got an idea.

[Bell Bishop]

What?

[John Bishop]

Know how we'll get some gas?

[Bell Bishop]

How?

[John Bishop]

Dig us an oil well. No, no. We're going to play it smart. We're going to catch a ride back to that filling station and discover a murder.

[Bell Bishop]

Sure appreciate the ride, Duke.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah.

[Bell Bishop]

Flights. Still aren't no cars around. Don't look like anybody's been here.

[John Bishop]

Well, you can't tell. It's been over a half hour. Hey, we're in luck. It's working out just right. Nobody has been here. He's lying just like we left him.

[Bell Bishop]

There's some gas cans, Duke. Let's pump one full and get out of here.

[John Bishop]

We can't do that.

[Ethel Hastings]

Why not?

[John Bishop]

Because the guy that picked us up and dumped us out across the highway would remember us. Sure, but you said we were coming.

[Bell Bishop]

Back to get Dad.

[John Bishop]

I said we're coming back to discover a murder. We're going to act like law abiding citizens. Now get in there.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Telephone for the law.

[Bell Bishop]

You're deliberately trying to get us burned.

[John Bishop]

I'm trying to keep us out of the chair. Now get in there on that phone. Quick. Here comes a couple of cars. Go on.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

What are you doing, Andrew?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sir?

[John Bishop]

Well, there's a dead man here. I. I think he's been shot. My wife's inside calling the police. We've already been notified.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

I'm Sheriff Pruitt of Glenwood. The man in that car behind me just came into town to report it.

[John Bishop]

Oh, well, this is terrible. Sheriff. A hold up, do you suppose?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Probably ask your wife to step out here.

[John Bishop]

Oh, sure, sure, of course. Oh, Bell, forget the telephone. The sheriff's here.

[Bell Bishop]

What?

[John Bishop]

I say the sheriff's here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Oh.

[Bell Bishop]

Somebody else report this?

[John Bishop]

Yeah, this is Mrs. Bishop, Sheriff. Howdy, ma'am.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

How long you two been here?

[John Bishop]

Just a few minutes. Got here just before you did.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Where's your car?

[John Bishop]

10, 11 miles down the line. Ran out of gas down there.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

You get a lift up here?

[John Bishop]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Callie. Yeah. Charlie. Is everything here just like it was when you drove in and discovered the body?

[John Bishop]

Well, seems like, Sheriff, near as I can tell.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Any sign of these folks around when you stop?

[John Bishop]

Nobody was around except poor Jim laying.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

On his face and all that blood. Ever see these folks before?

[Duke Bishop]

No, can't say I ever did.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Okay. Did you touch anything here, Mr. Bishop? That gas hose hanging unhooked there at the pump? The body?

[John Bishop]

Of course not, Sheriff. We just discovered the body and tried to notify authorities.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

How about you, Miss Bishop?

[Ethel Hastings]

Oh, no.

[Bell Bishop]

Well, just the telephone.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

All right, you can go back inside now if it'd be more comfortable, ma'am.

[Bell Bishop]

Thank you, Sheriff. Afraid I am a little shaky.

[John Bishop]

Look, Sheriff, this has been quite a shock to her. Couldn't we get some gas and ride back to our car so we can.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Be on our way? I'm afraid not. I'm going to phone for the ranger. You'll have to stay till they get here.

[John Bishop]

In response to Sheriff Pruitt's call, Ranger Jace Pearson was assigned to the case. Within two hours, he had carefully gone over the available information and evidence.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, Mr. Bishop, I guess that'll be all the questions for now. But before you and your wife leave, I'd like to have your full name and address in case we want to contact you later.

[John Bishop]

Oh, glad to, Ranger. Here it is on my driver's license. John Bishop, 980 West Pamela Street, Corsicana. That's a shady rest. We. We have an apartment.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You're headed away from Corsicana now. When will you be back?

[John Bishop]

Well, I got an appointment in Houston tomorrow about a job. But we'll be back home. Oh, day after tomorrow. Anything we can do, Ranger, just let us know.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Thanks.

[John Bishop]

You've both been very helpful.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sheriff had his deputy over there get you a tin of gas. He'll run you down to your car.

[John Bishop]

Oh, it's mighty nice of you, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Glad to help out. Bye, Ms. Bishop.

[Ethel Hastings]

Bye.

[Bell Bishop]

Bye, Ranger. Thanks again.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Good night.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Right. Decent folks, Jason.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sure seem to be.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

But the nasty case, Nothing to go on.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Not much apparently, but maybe we can turn something up.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Got any ideas? Jeez.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Uh huh. First off, I'm going to radio Austin for the lab crew. Have them scour this place from top to bottom. The lab crew went over Jim Cartwright station with a fine tooth comb while I waited for the lab report. I spent most of the next day searching the area for someone might have seen a car or suspicious action near the station the night before. I drew a complete blank and went back to the sheriff's office. Hi, Sheriff. Oh, hello, Jace.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Thought you were never coming back. Find anything?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No. Nobody seems to been traveling Highway 75 last night.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Lab boys didn't hit any jackpot either. Here's their report, just came in. Lab figures like we did that there was quite a scuffle before the shots were fired, but don't mean much.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No, but something in this fingerprint report might mean.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Those matching prints found on the telephone receiver in the cash drawer. Austin didn't have any record on whoever made him, so what good does that do?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The report says they were fresh. These prints don't match the ones taken from the body. So they aren't court rights. Hey, wait a minute, Sheriff. When you arrived At Courtright station, Mrs. Bishop was at the telephone, wasn't she?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Yeah, she was trying to call me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, then she was the last person to use the phone before those prints were pulled.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Well, you suppose that's her print on the phone?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

If it is, I'd sure like to know what its duplicate was doing on Courtright's cash drawer.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Yeah, and Bishop said himself he was on his way down to Houston to see about a job. If he was unemployed and broke, well, that sure be a motive.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I think we better run up to Corsicana tomorrow and sort of welcome Mr. And Mrs. Bishop when they get back from Houston. Late the next afternoon, Sheriff Pruitt and I rolled down a quiet Corsicana street to the address John Bishop had given us. Shady Rest turned out to be a shabby rooming house set next to a wide weed grown lot.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

I'll buy you a new Winchester if this deal pans out, Jason.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Let's hope it costs you, Sheriff. You better knock again.

[Ethel Hastings]

Wallace.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Good afternoon, ma'am. This is Sheriff Pruitt of Glenwood. And I'm Ranger Pearson.

[Ethel Hastings]

Howdy. I'm Ethel Hastings. Ms. Ethel Hastings. I'm the owner here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How do you do, Ms. Hastings? I wonder if you could give us a little information.

[Ethel Hastings]

Oh, maybe what you want to know.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We understand Mr. And Mrs. John Bishop are due back from Houston this afternoon. We were wondering if they've arrived yet.

[Ethel Hastings]

You mean Duke and Bell Bishop, huh? They have not arrived and they are not gone to.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What makes you so sure?

[Ethel Hastings]

Cause I evicted him, that's what.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Evicted them?

[John Bishop]

When?

[Ethel Hastings]

Day four yesterday morning.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Well, that's the morning of the same day the code right thing took place.

[John Bishop]

Jake.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah? Why were they evicted, ma'am?

[Ethel Hastings]

Well, I'm patient and I'm long suffering. But I'm a woman alone in this world, and I have to look out for my own interest. That Tire's been living off me half the winter and all spring. And there just had to be an end to it.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Non payment of rent, eh? Would you say they were broke?

[Ethel Hastings]

Well, if they wasn't, they sure had it hid good.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Any idea where they were going?

[Ethel Hastings]

To perdition? I'll guarantee that. The way the two of them lolled around all the time, drinking and turning down offers for honest work or.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What I meant was, did they leave a forwarding address?

[Ethel Hastings]

No, but they'll be sending me one as soon as they locate. You can count on that.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Well, you seem pretty sure, ma'am.

[Ethel Hastings]

I am. They only had one thing of any value. Beat up old Trump. But they tried to sneak out to their car. The way they hollered when I locked it up for the back rent, it must be worth something. I told them they could send for it when they had my money.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Do you mind if we look at this trunk?

[Ethel Hastings]

Well, now, I don't want to do nothing wrong, but with the law, with me, guess it'd be all right, wouldn't it?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I think so, Miss Hastings.

[Ethel Hastings]

Well, then, come right this way with me.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

What model rifle you want, Chase? Looks like I might be buying you one.

[Ethel Hastings]

Just be dying to look at this truck myself. What in the world those two could have that was that valuable? Now, it's right in the storeroom here. That's it right there.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Open her up, Sheriff. Let's see what's inside. There's nothing in the trunk except something wrapped in that old shirt and see what it is.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Can you beat that?

[Bell Bishop]

Cover it up.

[John Bishop]

Quick.

[Bell Bishop]

Get it out of here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Get it out of here. Now, calm yourself, ma'am. It isn't what it looks like.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Looks like a jug of alcohol to me with a baby in it.

[Hal Gibney]

A baby with two heads.

[Ethel Hastings]

Oh, my heart. My heart was my medicine. I gotta have my medicine now.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Easy, ma'am. You're all right. That's a sideshow gadget. Just a rubber doll made to look like the real thing.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

You mean it's a fake, Chase?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sure. I've seen him in theatrical supply, house catalogs, all sorts and sizes. Mummies, too.

[Ethel Hastings]

Fake. Well, I might have known it. If anything, that pair had to be no good. I. I suppose it don't have much value, does it, Ranger?

[John Bishop]

Do you?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm afraid not. Not unless you want to join a sideshow sideshow.

[Ethel Hastings]

Ranger, I'll have you to know I'm a respectable woman.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

And you've been a very helpful one, too, Ms. Hastings. Thanks. Come on, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

That bottle is the blameless thing I ever saw. Jace. What do you suppose the Bishops had it for?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I bet they wish they had it now. You in the mood for a few days of traveling?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Anything that'll bring us up with the Bishops.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Good thing we know where to start looking for them.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Do we?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Living in a cheap rooming house, running out of money towards spring, refusing jobs that faked up exhibit. They tried to sneak out with them. Sheriff, you and I are going hunting for carnivals.

[Joel McCray]

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

[Hal Gibney]

It is absolutely imperative that our armed forces have an adequate reserve of blood blood plasma at all times. The only answer to this crisis is you, the American people, who have never failed. In such an emergency, the Department of Defense urges every one of us to contribute blood plasma. Blood cannot be manufactured or cultivated. It must be given by human beings to save a life. Make an appointment right away to donate a pint of your blood. Then know in your heart that you have saved a life.

[Joel McCray]

We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and tonight's case, the blow off. An authentic story from the files of the Texas Rangers.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Working from published carnival routes, Sheriff Pruitt and I tracked down one show after another without finding any trace of Duke Bishop and his wife. No showman's organization had ever heard of them. We were beginning to lose hope by the time we arrived at Rocky Pass, where a carnival company was working the annual Rocky County Fair.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Golly geez, did you ever see such a jam?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Carnivals are fun, Sheriff. That's what they're for.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Personally, I'm about fed up with them. And it looks like we're going to draw a blank here too. No sign of a two headed baby.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, we haven't checked that sideshow over there yet. Another one?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Do we have to?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

They're getting kind of old to me now, too. This looks like a pit layout.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Is that good?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It'll be the likeliest place for our pair to be working. One of those fake baby exhibits, if.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

That'S what they went back to. What do you mean a pit layout?

[Andrew Rines]

J.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Pit shows, they call them. A lot of acts and exhibits under one top, one admission for the bunch. They use pits instead of platforms to separate the performers from the audience.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

What a business.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Come on, let's see if this show's got anything to interest.

[Duke Bishop]

Extraordinary assemblage of marbles ever gathered together for the edification of man pack.

[John Bishop]

Something of fashion, hey, mister.

[Duke Bishop]

To any unique mister. You mean me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Rangers, mind stepping down here a moment? I'D like to ask you a couple.

[Duke Bishop]

Of questions instantly, Ranger. Fourth week without delay. All right, step right up to the window folks. The little lady would be happy to take you money. It's only two piece. 25 cents a quarter part of a dollar. Now what can I do for you gentlemen of the law?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The sheriff and I are looking for a husband and wife team. We have reason to believe we're working a show like this.

[Duke Bishop]

Man, it's one of the puzzles of my long and chicken career. Why millions of the law insist upon hounding us hard working Connies.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

This is the first case I've ever had to investigate in the show business, mister.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I hope it's the last.

[Duke Bishop]

A commendable Chinaman, Sheriff. Very commendable.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The people we're looking for probably operate some kind of an exhibit with what they claim is a two headed baby in a jar of alcohol.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Hopscotches, huh?

[John Bishop]

What's that?

[Duke Bishop]

Hopscotches. Not regular died in the world Carney drifters that keep switching from one show to another. They'd be the kind to use in that ancient sucker bait.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Anything like that with this show?

[Duke Bishop]

A fake you can order out of a supply house by the dozen. With this show? Absolutely not, Ranger.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

How about in this tent?

[Duke Bishop]

You got a lot of freak natural phenomena, Sheriff. Wonders of nature.

[Joel McCray]

All right, all right.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Have you got a two headed baby in there?

[Duke Bishop]

Yeah, not even a one headed one. But there are some husband and wife teens. Now just step over here with me. You look them over for yourself.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Go ahead Sheriff.

[John Bishop]

Follow him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Might as well be sure.

[Duke Bishop]

Yeah, right over here, Ranger. Excuse me folks. Excuse me. Now Sheriff, we have here Zara. The world's heaviest human body. She requires supplies a calorie intake of 10 normal adder.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm afraid she's not the one we're looking for.

[Duke Bishop]

Well, all right. Right over here. Next is her husband, the sword swallow.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

We're not interested in him either.

[Duke Bishop]

Well, I. Don't rush yourself, Sheriff. Don't rush. Be sure.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Look, but the Bishops weren't performers. They operated an exhibit.

[Duke Bishop]

Who did you say?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Duke and Bell Bishop. Now you know him?

[Duke Bishop]

Why no, no.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

The name mean anything to you?

[Duke Bishop]

No, nothing. Nothing at all.

[John Bishop]

All.

[Duke Bishop]

And now this gentleman over here is Serpentina the rubber woman.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Wait a minute, what's that over there?

[Duke Bishop]

Where?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Through that doorway under the banner that says See and believe.

[Duke Bishop]

Oh, that. That's the blowoff. Now if you'll just.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Don't be in such a hurry, mister. What's a blowoff?

[John Bishop]

It's.

[Duke Bishop]

Well, it's an Added attraction for which there's an extra admission charge.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Kind of a. Come on, eh?

[Duke Bishop]

I suppose you could put it that way, Sheriff.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Just what is this added attraction?

[Duke Bishop]

Kind of a shocker. A woman without a head alive? Merely a cheap illusion, gentlemen.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We'll take a look just the same. Come on, Sheriff.

[John Bishop]

Oh, ladies and gentlemen, this unfortunate woman sitting before you on this chair.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

There he is, Sheriff. There's Bishop.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Well, I'll be done. Jeez, that Parker said this no head.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Business but an illusion.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Look at them pipes and wires and stuff feeding into her neck.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

And she's moving.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

That must be Bishop's wife.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Don't think he's seen us yet. Come on.

[John Bishop]

This little lady would die in just about 60 seconds.

[Duke Bishop]

Hey, Bill. Duckwex, the rangers.

[John Bishop]

Keep clear, folks.

[Duke Bishop]

They're ducking out under the tent. J.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The canvas is loose here. Out this way, Sheriff.

[Duke Bishop]

Don't see him, Jace.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

There they go, Sheriff. Into the crowd. Out in the midway.

[John Bishop]

Come on.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Hold it, Bishop.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Too many people here to risk gunplay.

[Duke Bishop]

You got to be careful.

[John Bishop]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Watch it.

[Duke Bishop]

He's going to fire. Jace, they're heading for the parking lot.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, I see him.

[Duke Bishop]

We lost them, Jace.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

And they could hide in here all night with so many cars jammed together. All right. Ears are better than our eyes in a spot like this.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Hear anything?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Not yet. Hey, what's that?

[Duke Bishop]

There goes a car.

[Joel McCray]

But it ain't the one they have.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

They probably stole this one. But it's them all right.

[Joel McCray]

They're heading right for the fairground fence.

[John Bishop]

Yeah, and they're going to go through it over to our car.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Quit.

[Duke Bishop]

Time we drive through the auto gate.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

They'Ll be long gone.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We aren't driving through the auto gate either.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Think you can hit that hole they.

[Joel McCray]

Made in the fence, Chase?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Watch me. Try. Brace yourself.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Just like threading a needle.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Keep your eyes open for him while I get on the radio. Unit 10 to KTXA. Unit 10 to KTXA.

[John Bishop]

KDXA to Unit 10. Go ahead, Unit 10.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Unit 10 is pursuing a green new model four door Nash sedan southbound on High Highway 285, two miles south of Rocky Pass. Cars presumed stolen. The occupants are wanted for murder. Unit 10 requests roadblocks on all possible avenues of escape from this area.

[John Bishop]

Will do, unit 10. Kdx. A Austin.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Although we drove at top speed, the pursuit ended at a Ranger roadblock 50 miles south of Rocky Pass. Units at the roadblock had not seen the described car. So we knew Duke and Bell Bishop had turned off on some tributary road before they reached the Barricade. We turned back on Highway 285 to search for them.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

There's a farm road I was talking about up ahead, Jase. They could have taken it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Pretty sparsely settled country out west of here. Let's take a look, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Sit tight, Jace. I'll check it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

See anything, Sheriff? Well, this looks like a Jace fresh tire track.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Somebody made an awful fast turn off the highway. Direction of travel is right too.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Maybe our luck's changing, Sheriff. Let's find out. The road sure getting rough.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Yeah, it's beginning to get dark. We don't get lined up fair pretty soon, Jace. They may dodge us all together.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I don't think so, Sheriff. They've been giving us a bad time and they may give us a worse one. But the department's got this whole area isolated.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Before we're through, we may wish we had your trailer and our horses.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, I was thinking of that too.

[John Bishop]

KDXA to unit 10.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

That's usage.

[John Bishop]

KTXA to unit.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Unit 10 to KTXA. Go ahead.

[John Bishop]

Highway Patrol unit 402 reports contact with subject's car. 11 miles west of Highway 285. Second dirt road to left off of Farm Road 971. Subjects maintaining excessive speed on nearly impassable road. Unit 402 requests backing.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

We passed the second dirt road to the left yet, Sheriff. No, wait.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

It looks like one at the bottom of this hill.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. 10 4. Unit 10 approaching turnoff to Farm Road 9 6. Now relay to unit 402. We're coming behind him. Unit 10 clear. Hang on, Sheriff. Looks like a bad turn. The dust is settled, but you can still smell it in the air.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Yeah, the highway patrol car got to be just up ahead.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

And he's right behind Bishop and his wife. How's your shooting eye?

[John Bishop]

Pretty tolerable, Jeff.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Well, I could do with a little practice.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You're apt to get it. Reach my rifle out of the back seat. All right, get a shot, Sheriff. Try for the tires. If they don't stop, then try for the best target you can get.

[John Bishop]

Okay.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Jace, you have to smell the dust in the air now. You can see it.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Jace, look out.

[John Bishop]

The road is dead ending.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Try to keep right on at the brush. So are we.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

What are you stopping for? You see something? Look.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

That little gully.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

The highway patrol car. I'm inside.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Watch yourself, Sheriff. Keep that rifle ready.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

No sign of the other car.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The tracks keep right on through the brush. Here, give me a hand with this. Top door. Gotta get the patrolman out of there. Let me get his feet easy now, Sheriff. Lift him out flat. Why? He was on a stretcher. Now down on this patch of grass.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Is he bad off, Jace?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, some abrasions and probably a mild concussion. You got a nasty lump on the side of his head.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Glad there's any worse. What do we do, Jace?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm going to radio for an ambulance to pick him up.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Then we'll have to stay here and wait for it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It's too dark to do much tracking in this brush anyway. We'll night it here by morning. We're going to have us those horses you were wishing we'd brought along. The highway patrolman was not seriously injured. During the night, our horses were towed into us. And by sunrise the sheriff and I were in the saddle, working toward other mounted rangers closing in on Duke and Bell Bishop from the outdoor side, who found their car and much later in the day followed their tracks to a small, dilapidated ranch house.

[John Bishop]

Whoa, Sharky. Whoa, boy.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Somebody's home there. Smokes in the chimney.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, but listen, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

You mean that old cow talking?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. What's it sound like she's saying?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Sounds like somebody forgot to milk her this morning.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Would a rancher forget something like that?

[Sheriff Pruitt]

What are you driving at, Jason?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Suppose somebody put the rancher out of commission so he couldn't take care of the cow.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

And a minute ago I was ready to ride right up to that front door.

[John Bishop]

Yeah.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I leave the horses here, we'll work the rest of the way on foot.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

It's going to be ticklish business if they're in there. They probably got their hands on every gun in the house.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I've got a hunch they may try to bluff it out till we actually bust in on them. You take the front door. I'll cut around to the back. Whichever way they break, then we'll have them.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

We better have a signal so I know when to rush the front piece.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Make your rush if you hear a shot or if I holler, whichever's first.

[John Bishop]

All right.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Good luck.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Same to you, Sheriff. We'll both need it. Approaching that house without cover or real knowledge of what lay behind the doors is the kind of work officers do only because it's part of their jobs. Death is cross close, and they know it.

[John Bishop]

I told you to stay by those back windows.

[Duke Bishop]

I'm scared.

[Bell Bishop]

Maybe there's rangers all around us. We got to get out of here.

[John Bishop]

Yeah, maybe we better not forget it. You take the back way.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Both of you stay right where you are. Come on, out in front with you there.

[John Bishop]

What a gag.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You like that couple lying there in the corner. Now, out on the front, sport, you hit that sheriff nick in the arm. Here, you get your arms around. This cup will keep you out of mischief.

[Duke Bishop]

Bishop, hold up behind that water drop.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, I'll flush him out. Bishop, I'm giving you a chance.

[John Bishop]

Come out from behind there with your hands up.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You hear me?

[Duke Bishop]

Come and get me, Ranger.

[John Bishop]

Okay, I will.

[Sheriff Pruitt]

Did he give up chase?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm afraid he did, Sheriff. Permanently.

[John Bishop]

Duly tried in the county courts at Glenwood, Texas, Belle Bishop was found guilty as an accessory in the murder of Jim Cartwright. Her sentence, 50 years in the women's prison at Gorey.

[Joel McCray]

Next week, Joel McCray. In another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers, Joel McCray is currently seen starring in the Universal International Technicolor production Cattle Drive. The cast included Tony Barrett, Eddie Mar, Gerald Moore, Betty Lou Gerson, Ed Begley, angel at Nolan. Technical adviser was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Tom Blackburn and the program was produced and directed by Stacy KE this is Hal Gibney speaking.

[Hal Gibney]

It's the Silver Jubilee on NBC. Today, it's the big show with guest stars including Mary McCarty, Dane Clark, Martha Scott, Phil Foster and your charming hostess, Tallulah Bankhead. Then join in the fun on the sparkling Phil Harris Alice Fay show. Later, Theater Guild on the air brings you the Broadway musical Allegro, starring Jane Powell, John Lund and Kenny Delmar. Keep tuned to the NBC Radio Network, now entering its second quarter century as the leader in radio entertainment. Next, it's the big show. All this in Tallulah 2 on NB.

[John Bishop]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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