The End of the Rope | Ranger Bill (08-04-54)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: The End of the Rope | Ranger Bill (08-04-54)

Podcast Date: January 10, 2026 | Host: Andrew Rhynes

---

Episode Overview

In "The End of the Rope," the Old Time Radio Westerns presents a suspenseful Ranger Bill adventure that highlights the perils of youthful recklessness and the importance of obeying experienced advice. When two young visitors defy instructions and go mountain climbing, the rangers must execute a daring rescue, putting their skills and teamwork to the ultimate test amidst treacherous natural dangers.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

Setting the Stage: Arrival of the City Boys

• Main Cast: Ranger Bill Jefferson, Stumpy Jenkins, Gray Wolf, Henry Scott, Bart Norton, Jeff Murdoch.

• Bart Norton and his friend Jeff arrive from the city to spend time in the wilderness under Ranger Bill's supervision.

• Bill receives a telegram stating their visit, expressing concern about being responsible for them—especially since Bart's father requests, “no mountain climbing.”

  • Quote:

    “Your father said in his wire to me that you're not to do any mountain climbing.”
    — Bill Jefferson (09:45)

• The newcomers are good-naturedly tricked by the locals with tall tales—about “hoop snakes,” “milk snakes,” and “left-handed monkey wrenches.”

  • Light-hearted initiation plays out with friendly Western banter.

Ignoring Advice: The Temptation of the Mountain

• Despite being expressly told not to climb mountains, Bart becomes bored and convinces Jeff to sneak off for an unauthorized ascent.
• Both are initially excited but soon realize the ascent is far more dangerous than anticipated—especially as wind intensifies.

Crisis Strikes: The Climbers in Peril

• Disaster hits when Jeff slips, breaking his ankle, leaving the boys stranded on a narrow ledge hundreds of feet up as a windstorm builds.

  • Quote:

    “Jeff, hang on! The pick’s slipping—are you all right?”
    — Bart Norton (12:52)

    “No, Bart, I… I think my ankle’s broken.”
    — Jeff Murdoch (12:59)

• The Rangers hear of their disappearance and head out, using a helicopter to locate them after failed attempts to climb the ledge.

  • Memorable Moment: The realization that traditional rescues are impossible in brutal mountain winds. Tension mounts as daylight fades.

Innovation & Teamwork: The Rescue Operation

• Unable to reach the boys, Bill devises a plan patterned after maritime lifesaving—using a rifle to shoot a weighted rope to the ledge.

  • Quote:

    “I’ll take this rifle and make a weighted plug… We’ll tie a thin light rope to the weighted plug. Stumpy, you can fire it at the ledge.”
    — Bill Jefferson (22:03)

• Through a series of lines (from light cord to heavy winch cable), food and blankets are successfully sent to the ledge to keep the boys safe overnight.

• As winds persist, Bill adapts the plan to use the helicopter to extract each boy, lifting them off the ledge like a pendulum.

  • Quote:

    “You’re going to swing us off the ledge like a pendulum.”
    — Bart Norton (29:23)

Lessons Learned: Obedience and Humility

• Both Bart and Jeff are safely rescued, with Bart admitting his regret and learning a hard lesson about listening to his father’s and Bill’s wisdom.

  • Quote:

    “There’s one thing I want to tell Bill and the rest of the fellas… I’m awfully ashamed of myself for getting Jeff and myself into this mess.”
    — Bart Norton (31:25)

  • Humorous Reflection:

    “When did you decide that?”
    — Bill Jefferson (31:39)
    “When I was dangling 500 feet in the air on the end of a rope.”
    — Bart Norton (31:42)

• Bill closes with a message to young listeners about the importance of accepting the guidance of experienced elders.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with Timestamps)

• On Parental Advice:

  “What mom and dad tell us is for our own good. Life would be so much better if we'd listen to what older folks tell us.”
  — Narrator (03:37)

• Moments of Tension and Wit:

  “You have to be a monkey with magnets in feet. That’s straight up 500 feet.”
  — Grey Wolf, on the cliff’s difficulty (14:15)

• Admission of Fault and Growth:

  “I’m going to wire dad that I won’t do any more mountain climbing and no more disobedience.”
  — Bart Norton (31:32)

• Final Reflection:

  “I guess that’s as good a place as any to learn to be obedient, Bart.”
  — Bill Jefferson (31:56)

• Closing Moral:

  “His dad and I knew just a little more than he did. Only it almost cost him his life and the life of his best friend to learn that lesson. I hope it doesn't take you that long to find out.”
  — Bill Jefferson (32:04)

---

Important Segment Timestamps

| Time | Event/Turning Point | |--------|------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 03:37 | Narrator sets up the theme of heeding experienced advice | | 09:45 | Bill relays Bart’s father’s “no mountain climbing” order | | 11:13 | Bart and Jeff plot to disobey—plan mountain climb | | 12:52 | Jeff injured—crisis atop the ledge | | 14:15 | Rangers spot the boys, note cliff’s peril | | 22:03 | Bill develops rifle-rope rescue | | 23:21 | Supplies successfully delivered to the ledge | | 29:04 | Rescue via “pendulum” helicopter extraction explained | | 31:18 | Bart’s sincere apology and realization | | 32:04 | Bill’s closing moral on experience and obedience |

---

Tone and Style

• Language & Delivery: Warm, humorous camaraderie among rangers and guests; tense urgency during rescue; heartfelt earnestness in the moral wrap-up.
• Overall Style: Classic, comforting Western adventure with wholesome lessons and lively banter, suitable for family listening.

---

Conclusion

“The End of the Rope” is a thrilling tale of danger and rescue that underscores the wisdom of learning from those with experience. With engaging dialogue, memorable moments, and high-stakes teamwork, this episode delivers both classic Western excitement and a timeless message of humility and the value of obedience—lessons as relevant now as during radio’s golden age.

---

Transcript

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Why are more women than ever choosing Natural Cycles, the hormone free, side effect free way to take control of your fertility. Natural Cycles is a birth control app that uses your temperature to find your fertile window. It is more than a basic cycle tracking app. Natural Cycles is the only FDA cleared and CE marked birth control app and has helped millions prevent and plan for pregnancy naturally. Save 15% when you sign up today with code RADIO15. Learn more@natural cycles.com.

Corporate credit cards Cash Flow Management Centralizing Spend Help with Catching Fraud A powerful corporate card program needs to do a lot, so it should be designed to help work with your business. That's why with the American Express corporate program, you can customize key elements to match your company's needs. Explore and apply from a variety of card types based on employee roles, select liability and billing options that fit your needs, add spending controls to support compliance and decide whether earning rewards or cash back in the form of a statement. Credit delivers more value for your business. Learn more and start customizing your corporate [e-mail] corporate terms apply.

Foreign.

[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 for your enjoyment. You can find more Western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Ranger bill, warrior of the woodland.

[Narrator]

Ranger Bill, Warrior of the Woodland Struggling against extreme odds. Traveling dangerous trails, Fighting the many enemies of nature. This is the job of the Guardian of the Forest. Ranger Bill Pouring rain, freezing cold, blistering heat, snow, floods, bears, rattlesnakes, mountain lions. Yes, all this in exchange for the satisfaction and pride of a job well done.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Did you know you can save up to 70% on the best brands just by shopping at from rebel.com we're talking about strollers, car seats, high chairs, espresso, Mach machines, cookware. Everything you need for way less. Here's how it works. Every single day, REBBL drops thousands of new products on the site for up to 70% off. It is a constant stream of endless deals from top brands like Uppababy, Nuna, Baby bjorn, Breville, Nespresso, KitchenAid, Le Creuset and more. But you have to act fast because every deal is one of a kind. So if you see something you love, make sure you add to cart fast. So stop paying full price when you don't have to. Whether it's baby gear, kitchen upgrades or a treasure for your home you didn't know you needed. Rebel has it for way less. Up to 70% less. Shop from rebel.com and save big.

[Narrator]

You know, fellas and girls, sometimes we think that Mother and Dad are just a bit stuffy with their advice and counsel. We even feel that our parents try to take the fun out of life. Well, that's not true. What mom and dad tell us is for our own good. Life would be so much better if we'd listen to what older folks tell us. This is the story about two young fellows who wouldn't listen to experienced advice. And it almost cost them. Well, say, I'm almost giving the story away. Stick around for a breathtaking story. The end of the rope.

[Gray Wolf]

Hey, Belle, here's a telegram for you. I came past the Western Union office on the way up here and Sid stuck it in my hand as I went by.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, thanks, pal. I wonder what's up.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Maybe his uncle left him his old swayback mule.

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah, for his Model T Ford.

[Bill Jefferson]

Bad news, fellas.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, how bad?

[Bill Jefferson]

My old friend Nathaniel Norton is sending his son Bart and a friend of his out here for a couple of months on a vacation.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Uh oh, and what kind of rascals are these young whippersnappers, Bill?

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, I guess they're well behaved as far as that goes, Dumpy.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, then we haven't anything to worry about.

[Bill Jefferson]

Perhaps not, but I don't like being responsible for his son and friend.

[Gray Wolf]

I'll keep my eye on them, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

Thanks, Belle. We've got lots of trail work to do in the next couple of weeks.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

When are these youngsters coming, Bill?

[Bill Jefferson]

Tonight. We'll meet them at the station.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

There's two young tender feet, sonny.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah. They're coming toward us.

[Gray Wolf]

He must be Bart Norton and his friend.

[Bart Norton]

Excuse me, sir. Are you Bill Jefferson?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Bill Jefferson]

You must be Bartholomew Norton.

[Bart Norton]

Yes, I am. Just call me Bart. This is my friend Jeff Murdoch.

[Narrator]

How do you do?

[Bill Jefferson]

Fine, thank you. I'd like you to meet Henry Scott and Stumpy Jenkins.

[Bart Norton]

Hi, Henry.

[Gray Wolf]

Hi, Bart.

[Bill Jefferson]

Our station wagon's just outside the depot. We'll give you a hand with your luggage.

[Bart Norton]

Say, this is a wonderful place you have here, Mr. Jefferson.

[Bill Jefferson]

Thanks, Bart. Just call me Bill.

[Narrator]

I've never been in a ranger's office before.

[Bill Jefferson]

Is that right? Well, I hope we'll see a lot of you in the next few weeks, Jeff.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Say, did you ever see a hoop snake, sonny?

[Bart Norton]

No, Stumpy. What do they look like?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Well, they're big, long snakes. They grab ahold of their tail with their mouth and roll down the road like a Hoop.

[Narrator]

Oh, go on, Stumpy. That's not true.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

It ain't, huh? Where do you think they get the name Hoop Snake from?

[Narrator]

Well, maybe you're right.

[Gray Wolf]

Sure, that's just like the snake we got out here that milks cows. It's called the milk snake.

[Bart Norton]

Hey, wait a minute. I'm not going to swallow that one.

[Bill Jefferson]

Why don't you guys lay off? Why, it's like the yarn about the left handed monkey wrench.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Monkey wrench? What in the world are we coming to? I've heard of a cow ranch and a sheep ranch. Never heard of a monkey ranch before.

[Bart Norton]

All joking aside though, Bill, I've never seen a left handed monkey ranch.

[Bill Jefferson]

You haven't? Why they've got one down at Pete's garage.

[Narrator]

Can we go look at it?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Why sure.

[Bill Jefferson]

The garage is just a block down the street.

[Narrator]

Come on, Bart, I want to see that wrench.

[Bart Norton]

We'll be back in a few minutes, fellas.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

You got your nerve, Bill. Jefferson, if I had a pulled ad, you'd have turned blue on the face.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, old timer, it's like you said. We're trying to harden up their tender feet. We'll pick them up at the garage in a couple of minutes and head for home. It's almost supper time.

[Bart Norton]

It sure is peaceful and quiet out here. And I could sit on the porch all night and listen to the crickets and katydids.

[Narrator]

Yeah, Lord sure knew what he was doing when he created the earth. He knew that man needed time to rest so they'd be fresh for a new day.

[Bill Jefferson]

That's right, sonny.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Say, I hope you ain't got no hard feelings about that left handed monkey wrench.

[Narrator]

And the hoop snake and the milk snake.

[Bill Jefferson]

We had to initiate you fellas into the ways of the West. But Stumpy's right. We hope you haven't taken offense.

[Bart Norton]

Oh no, Bill, we haven't. We expected to have tricks pulled on us.

[Narrator]

Yeah, this is milder than we expected.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, I think it's time we hit the hay, fellas. Why don't you sleep here tonight, Stumpy?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Twist mine, will ya?

[Gray Wolf]

How about Mom's wheat cakes for breakfast?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

That does it. I'm staying.

[Bill Jefferson]

Let's have our devotions and then turn in in the morning. We'll saddle up for a long trip on the trail. Easy Tom. Easy boy. But Jeff, I'm leaving Henry here to entertain you.

[Bart Norton]

Well, we appreciate that, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

Just one thing I didn't mention, Bart.

[Bart Norton]

Yeah?

[Bill Jefferson]

Your father said in his wire to me that you're not to do any mountain climbing.

[Bart Norton]

What?

[Bill Jefferson]

That's right.

[Bart Norton]

But that's what we wanted to do most of all. What's dad thinking about?

[Bill Jefferson]

He's thinking about your safety part. I must say, I agree with him. So remember, no mountain climbing.

[Bart Norton]

Oh, okay.

[Bill Jefferson]

Now, you can use one of our cars to take the fellas around, Henry.

[Gray Wolf]

Oh, fine, Bill. I'll take them sightseeing. When you be back?

[Bill Jefferson]

In about 10.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, fellas, we've seen about all there is to see around Knotty Pine.

[Bart Norton]

We sure appreciate how you've taken us around, Henry.

[Narrator]

That's right. You've been a swell host.

[Gray Wolf]

Oh, forget it, fellas. I'm glad to do it.

[Narrator]

When will Bill be back, Henry?

[Gray Wolf]

Oh, about Wednesday, I imagine.

[Bart Norton]

Jeff, we'll have to dig up something to keep us busy for a few days.

[Gray Wolf]

I won't be able to help you for a day or so. I have some work to do over at headquarters.

[Bart Norton]

Jeff, I'm bored stiff. Henry's got work to do. And here we sit.

[Narrator]

Yeah, What'll we do?

[Bart Norton]

Go mountain climbing.

[Narrator]

What your dad will scalp you for.

[Bart Norton]

Dad won't care as long as we're careful.

[Narrator]

Oh, don't take me wrong, Bart. I'm all for it, but.

[Bart Norton]

But nothing, Jeff. As long as we're careful, who'll care?

[Narrator]

Yeah, maybe you're right. When will we start?

[Bart Norton]

How about right now?

[Narrator]

Okay, let's.

[Bart Norton]

Well, you got to this ledge without any trouble, Jeff.

[Narrator]

Yeah, but it scares me when I look down. We've been climbing almost straight up.

[Bart Norton]

Never look down when you're climbing. What do you say we start again?

[Narrator]

Yeah. Yeah. We can't stay on this ledge.

[Bart Norton]

Right. Say, Jeff, what do we do if a strong wind comes up?

[Narrator]

Don't worry. I got my pick set. I'll go first.

[Bart Norton]

Okay.

[Narrator]

Here goes.

[Bart Norton]

Got the pick set again, Jeff?

[Narrator]

Yeah, yeah. Come ahead, Bart.

[Bart Norton]

Jeff, hang on. The pic's slipping.

[Narrator]

Bart.

[Bart Norton]

Jeff, are you all right?

[Narrator]

No, Bart, I. I think my ankle's broken.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Here comes Gray Wolf down the trail.

[Bill Jefferson]

Bill, Stumpy, we'll head back to Knotty Pine right now. Let's go, Storm.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Hey, Matilda.

[Grey Wolf]

Being plenty good to see you fellows again.

[Bill Jefferson]

Got kind of lonesome on the northern boundary, didn't it?

[Grey Wolf]

Long time not see anybody.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Maybe you started talking to yourself, eh, sonny?

[Grey Wolf]

Not quite.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Hey, get out of here, fellas. The rock slide's shutting. Come on, storm, let's go. McKinney, Where's your rock slide, sonny?

[Bill Jefferson]

Whoa, Storm. Boy, he's a king. It's all right, fella. I don't know where the rock slide is. Old timer Easy, King.

[Grey Wolf]

It sure sound like rock slide start.

[Bill Jefferson]

I wonder where those large stones came from. And why there.

[Grey Wolf]

Answer up one ledge on side of mountain, huh?

[Bill Jefferson]

Great Scott. How'd those men get up there?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

You have to be a monkey to scale that mountain.

[Grey Wolf]

You have to be monkey with magnets in feet. That's straight up 500ft.

[Bill Jefferson]

There's two of them up there as far as I can make out. Let's go back to town and get some rescue gear. Come on, Storm.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Hey, let's go, boy.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Come on.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Kill me.

[Bart Norton]

The rangers are leaving. What do we do now?

[Narrator]

Maybe they've gone for help.

[Bart Norton]

Yeah. Oh, sure. Why didn't I think of that? They know we're up here. We'll be back. I hope. I'm sorry I got you into this mess, Jeff.

[Narrator]

You couldn't help it. The rock gave way.

[Bart Norton]

Perhaps, but if I listened to my dad's advice, we wouldn't be in this mess. Bill warned us too.

[Narrator]

Well, what's the use of crying over spilt milk?

[Bart Norton]

Even if you weren't hurt, we couldn't climb down with the wind blowing up the way it is.

[Narrator]

That's right, Bart. All we can do is wait and hope.

[Bart Norton]

Yeah, and pray.

[Bill Jefferson]

There's Henry in front of the office. He looks worried.

[Grey Wolf]

We find out what wrong in minute.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Something's out by the look on his face.

[Bill Jefferson]

Who's doing hooky? Henry? What's the matter?

[Gray Wolf]

It's Bart and Jeff. They've been gone all day.

[Bill Jefferson]

You know where they went?

[Gray Wolf]

No, I left them at the house when I came over here to do some work. Mom says they took off about an hour after her left.

[Grey Wolf]

Bill, you think maybe they fellas up on Ledge?

[Bill Jefferson]

I don't know, Grey Wolf. I'm going to find out.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

How you figure to do that, young feller?

[Bill Jefferson]

With a helicopter.

[Grey Wolf]

Bring copter closer to mountain.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Okay.

[Bill Jefferson]

Hold on though. I gotta be careful of downdrafts.

[Gray Wolf]

Hey, Bill, what are we gonna do if those crazy guys did climb onto the ledge?

[Bill Jefferson]

Get them off, pal. Can you see them now, Gray Wolf?

[Grey Wolf]

Get dark now. Hard see through glasses.

[Bill Jefferson]

Here's the landing spotlight on the copter.

[Gray Wolf]

I shaded on the ledge. Gray Wolf. How's that?

[Grey Wolf]

Oh, I see plenty of good now.

[Bill Jefferson]

Can you tell who they are yet? You're right, Bill.

[Grey Wolf]

That Barton Jeff on Ledge.

[Bart Norton]

Jeff, that must have been Bill and Henry and the other rangers in the copter.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Well, now they know we're up here.

[Bart Norton]

Hey, Jeff, you're shivering.

[Narrator]

I'm getting cold. Bart. I think I've got a Fever, Jeff?

[Bart Norton]

I guess it's no use to tell you how sorry I am about getting you into this mess. Your ankle looks worse all the time.

[Narrator]

That's all right, Bart. You couldn't help it.

[Bart Norton]

Here, put my shirt on.

[Narrator]

What'll you do to keep warm?

[Bart Norton]

I can move around, you can't.

[Narrator]

You'll need your shirt. The wind's getting colder.

[Bart Norton]

No, you take it.

[Bill Jefferson]

Go.

[Bart Norton]

Will get us off here soon.

[Narrator]

Sure, but how's he gonna do it? Nobody can climb up here in this wind.

[Bill Jefferson]

These boxes look like they'll take a beating. Use plenty of rope around them, Henry.

[Grey Wolf]

Okay, Bill, we got everything in boxes they need Food, blankets, first aid kits, waterproof canvas.

[Bill Jefferson]

Fine. Let's take off then. Everybody aboard.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Go ahead. I'll close the door. Take her away, sonny.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Weight Watchers now offers access to affordable GLP1s. It works for members like I'm Haley and I've lost 100 pound. Weight Watchers has everything I need from weight loss medications to nutrition support and help with my side effects. It's all in one place. Weight Watchers handles the insurance for you and offers affordable cash pay options. With our program, our members are losing more weight with expert nutrition and side effect support.

[Gray Wolf]

I'm Mike and I've lost 135 pounds. Weight Watchers prescribing GLP1 medications. It's been life changing.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

I'm Sheria and I lost 80 pounds on Weight Watchers. I realized that it would take more than a prescription to lose weight and feel good on a GLP1. Better results, expert support, lose more weight, make it last.

[Gray Wolf]

I can't imagine doing a GLP1 without Weight Watchers.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Get started for as low as $[e-mail] GLP1 for over 60 years, we've helped millions of members find what works for them. Now it's your turn, Weight Watchers. Watch it work.

[Bill Jefferson]

Henry, you man the spotlight. Gray Wolf, Stumpy, two fellas man the winch and lower the supplies.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

Me too.

[Gray Wolf]

Bill, bring the copter closer.

[Bill Jefferson]

Bill, shine the light on the side of the mountain above us.

[Gray Wolf]

There. How's that?

[Bill Jefferson]

That's fine, Henry. I won't be able to get much closer because of that overhanging part of the mountain.

[Grey Wolf]

Huh. Not bad.

[Bill Jefferson]

What do you mean, Werewolf?

[Grey Wolf]

You're not able to lower supplies on Ledge. We too far away from Ledge.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

We ain't got nothing but thin air to drop these here supplies on now, young feller.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, I can't move any closer to the mountain. Sudden gust of wind could Push us toward the rock and smash the propeller blades to bits.

[Gray Wolf]

How are we gonna get the supplies to pardon Jeff then?

[Bill Jefferson]

Try swinging the cables back and forth like a pendulum. Perhaps you can get them on the ledge that way.

[Grey Wolf]

Ah, maybe that. Good idea. We try it now.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Lay on the floor and reach through the windshield and swing the cable. You lower away. Gray wolf, huh?

[Grey Wolf]

You say one lower.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

All right, lower away. I got the box and cable swinging.

[Gray Wolf]

Let the copter down a little, Bill. It might help.

[Bill Jefferson]

Okay, enough.

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah, that's good.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Ain't no use. We can't get close enough to the ledge.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'll take in the cable. Fellas, I've got a better idea. They'll go back to the airport and rig it.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Bill, what's your idea? To get those supplies on the ledge.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'll take this rifle and make a weighted plug. It's just a hair smaller than the rifle barrel.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, I get it. You're going to do the same thing as the lifesavers do on the coast.

[Bill Jefferson]

Exactly, pal. We'll tie a thin and light rope to the weighted plug. Stumpy, you can fire it at the ledge as soon as the line falls on the ledge. Then Bart and Jeff can haul in the thin line.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

See? It's all right. On the end of the thin line, we'll tie a heavier line. When the lads get the heavier line, we can put the regular line on the end of that.

[Grey Wolf]

When they pull third line in, then we can send supplies.

[Bill Jefferson]

Right. Henry, is the the power megaphone on board?

[Gray Wolf]

Yes, it is, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

All right, let's go, fellas.

[Narrator]

Bart, you're freezing. Here, take your shirt back.

[Bart Norton]

I'll just move around.

[Narrator]

Watch out for the edge of the ledge.

[Bart Norton]

Hey, here comes the helicopter again. There's the spotlight.

[Narrator]

Unless we're gonna try something else to get those boxes to us.

[Gray Wolf]

Bart, Jeff, listen closely. We've got supplies here for you. Food and blankets. We're going to fire a weighted plug at the ledge. On the end of the plug is a life line. When you get your hands on the life line, start pulling until you get a heavy line on the ledge. Stay right where you are and don't move around. When you hear the plug hit, then try to grab the line.

[Bart Norton]

Did you hear that, Jeff? We're going to get supplies.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Thank the Lord for that. Boy, I'm so hungry I could eat rocks.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay, fellas, keep your heads down and don't move. Here it comes.

[Narrator]

There it is. Get it, Bart.

[Bill Jefferson]

I got it. I got it.

[Narrator]

Start pulling it in, Bart. You won't have to be hungry and cold.

[Gray Wolf]

They've got the last box.

[Bill Jefferson]

Good work, boys. Henry, tell them we'll be back in the morning to get them off the ledge.

[Gray Wolf]

Bart, Jeff, we'll be back in the morning to get you off the ledge. Just take it easy until we get to you. Don't worry, we'll get you off.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

I hope you ain't bragging, young feller.

[Grey Wolf]

That's going to be plenty tough climb.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, let's go back home and get some rest. We'll find out how tough a climb that is in the morning. You ready, Gray Wolf?

[Grey Wolf]

Me ready now.

[Bill Jefferson]

Bill, Stumpy, Henry. You fellas just hold tight here until we find out if we can climb this mountain or not.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay, Bill.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

We won't run off and leave you.

[Bill Jefferson]

Gray Wolf, I think we ought to climb parallel to each other.

[Grey Wolf]

That good idea. Then it won't be dangerous from loose rocks.

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah. All right, let's climb.

[Grey Wolf]

Me got first solid hold with pick. Now me climb wall like fly.

[Bill Jefferson]

I hope we can say the same thing when we're 400ft. Let's rest a while.

[Grey Wolf]

Gray Wolf, that funny good idea.

[Bill Jefferson]

How far are we?

[Grey Wolf]

Let me say about a third of way up.

[Bill Jefferson]

I think that's about right. Boy, this wind is terrible.

[Grey Wolf]

It tears right off mountainside.

[Bill Jefferson]

Let's call it a hogling. Yes. No use fool ourselves. Jeff and Bart must have climbed this with little or no wind in effect. Well, let's back down.

[Grey Wolf]

Wall gets steeper as we climb.

[Bill Jefferson]

It's suicide.

[Grey Wolf]

Go higher.

[Bill Jefferson]

Take it easy climbing down. You have to think of some other way to get Jeff and Bart off that ledge.

[Gray Wolf]

Boy, am I glad to see you fellas with two feet on terra firma.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

That's right, Bill. Great Wolf, we could see the wind push you around on the side of.

[Bill Jefferson]

The mountain up there. Yeah, the wind's up there, Savage, all right. Bart and Jeff must have climbed up when the wind was fairly still.

[Grey Wolf]

Nobody'd be able to climb up or down to rescue Bart and Jeff.

[Gray Wolf]

Well, how are we gonna get them off then?

[Bill Jefferson]

I wish I knew.

[Gray Wolf]

They can't stay up there forever. Bill, if we can't get supplies to them. I mean, we can get supplies to them. Why can't we get them off the ledge?

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Well, getting them on the ledge is one thing, but getting them off is another.

[Grey Wolf]

Henry, boxes of supplies and people are two different things.

[Bill Jefferson]

Wait a minute. I've got it. What you said was right, pal. If we got the supplies on, why can't we get the lads off? Sure, why not?

[Gray Wolf]

How can we do it, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'll explain on the way to the airport. Let's get a helicopter and get busy.

[Gray Wolf]

Are we going to set this up just like we did for the boxes?

[Bill Jefferson]

Yeah, exactly the same with one change.

[Grey Wolf]

What change is that, Bill?

[Bill Jefferson]

Use the cable as much as possible. It'll take the strain better on the winch. Put the heavy rope on the end of the cable.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

It'll work fine. Use your stout eye. Splice down the end.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'm going to bring the copter in as close as I can.

[Gray Wolf]

Do you think it would be better to wait till the winds die down, Bill?

[Bill Jefferson]

No, pal. Probably won't be another windless day in this canyon for months.

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah, I guess you're right, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

Stand by the power. Megaphone. Henry. I'm going to hug the mountain.

[Gray Wolf]

Okay, I'm ready. Only don't hug it to death.

[Narrator]

We're going to try something again, Bart.

[Bart Norton]

I wonder what it'll be this time.

[Bill Jefferson]

Mark.

[Gray Wolf]

Jeff, listen closely. We're going to take you off the ledge just like we put the supplies on. Now, trust us. This is the only way we can do it. Be sure and tie the rope securely around your chest.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Here comes the shot, Jeff.

[Bart Norton]

They're going to swing us off the ledge like a pendulum.

[Narrator]

It'll work. It has to. There it is, Bart. Gra. Grab it.

[Bill Jefferson]

I've got it.

[Gray Wolf]

Pull a thin line until you get the heavy line over to the ledge. Tie the heavy line securely around your chest. When you're ready, wave your arm. Then Bill will raise you off the ledge with the helicopter. Do just exactly as we say. Your life depends on it.

[Narrator]

Don't worry, we will.

[Bart Norton]

Okay, Jeff. Raise your arms and I'll get this rope around you.

[Narrator]

That feels good and tight. I'll hang on to the rope, too.

[Bart Norton]

No set?

[Narrator]

Yeah, I guess so. Go ahead. Give him the signal.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Take him away.

[Gray Wolf]

Here I go.

[Narrator]

O.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Here comes the end of the cable.

[Grey Wolf]

Me. Stop. Winch us.

[Bill Jefferson]

Pull, Jeff.

[Grey Wolf]

Rest of way now.

[Gray Wolf]

Yeah. Let's lift together.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Here he comes.

[Narrator]

Boy, am I glad to see you fellas.

[Bill Jefferson]

We're glad to see you.

[Gray Wolf]

You said it, Bill.

[Bill Jefferson]

You all right, Jeff?

[Narrator]

I got a bad ankle.

[Bill Jefferson]

I'll make Jeff comfortable, fellas. Then we'll get Bart off the cliff the same way with this flying banana. How's it feel to be safe and sound, Bart?

[Bart Norton]

It feels wonderful, Bill.

[Narrator]

You tell him, Bart.

[Bart Norton]

There's one thing I want to tell Bill and the rest of the fellas.

[Stumpy Jenkins]

Now, what might that be, sonny?

[Bart Norton]

I'm awfully ashamed of myself for getting Jeff and myself into this mess.

[Bill Jefferson]

Well, did you learn something from it, Bart boy?

[Bart Norton]

And how. I'm going to wire dad that I won't do any more mountain climbing and no more disobedience.

[Bill Jefferson]

Oh, when did you decide that?

[Bart Norton]

When I was dangling 500ft in the air on the end of a rope.

[Bill Jefferson]

I guess that's as good a place as any to learn to be obedient. Barn. Well, fellas and girls, I think Bart found the truth. His dad and I knew just a little more than he did. Only it almost cost him his life and the life of his best friend to learn that lesson. I hope it doesn't take you that long to find out.

[Narrator]

See you next week for more adventure with Ranger Bell.

[Bill Jefferson]

Hi there, boys and girls. This is Ranger Bill. Back again for just a third of a minute with an extra word of thanks to you for joining us today. Hope you'll team up with the Rangers every week at this time when your local station gives us this chance to get together. See you then.

[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 YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. 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.

[Narrator]

Sa.