The Killers of Lion Canyon | Hopalong Cassidy (12-29-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast

Episode Title: The Killers of Lion Canyon | Hopalong Cassidy (12-29-51)
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: July 17, 2025

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Introduction

In this riveting episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to December 29, 1951, with the classic Hopalong Cassidy adventure titled "The Killers of Lion Canyon." This digitally restored episode showcases the timeless hero Hopalong Cassidy, portrayed by William Boyd, alongside his trusty companion, California Carlson (Andy Clyde). The story unfolds in the perilous terrains of Lion Canyon, where deceit and danger lurk around every corner.

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Setting Out for Lion Canyon

[01:29 – 04:14]

Hopalong Cassidy and California Carlson embark on a journey through the Skeleton Mountains, west of the Bar 20 Ranch. Hopalong explains their mission to seek out grazing lands recommended by an old friend, Ray Wilson, who had homesteaded in the area. As they navigate the steep canyon trails, California humorously remarks on the challenging mountaineering conditions:

California Carlson [00:40]: "Poppy, this here mountaineer sure makes a man hungry, don't it?"
[00:43] Hopalong Cassidy: "Back there on the prairie, we cook more than you could eat."

Their camaraderie sets a lighthearted tone before tension arises with the unexpected appearance of a stranger.

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First Encounter with Lou Rucker

[02:14 – 03:57]

A mysterious figure named Lou Rucker approaches, armed and cautious. Misunderstandings lead to a brief standoff, culminating in Rucker revealing his confusion, mistaking Hopalong and California for mountain lions:

Lou Rucker [02:20]: "Howdy, friends. Howdy. Hey, Put away your guns. I apologize for the shooting. My mistake, friends. I thought you was a mountain lion."
Hopalong Cassidy [02:29]: "Do we look like mountain lions, mister?"

Rucker introduces himself and offers assistance, prompting Hopalong to inquire about Ray Wilson's whereabouts. Rucker advises them to visit the Paradise Flats General Store, hinting at underlying tensions in the area:

Lou Rucker [03:10]: "Wilson was moving out."
Hopalong Cassidy [03:30]: "How do we get to the Paradise Store?"

Although Rucker appears helpful, Hopalong remains suspicious of his overly friendly demeanor.

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Discovery of Ray Wilson

[04:19 – 06:35]

Ignoring Rucker's warnings to bypass Lion Canyon, Hopalong and California press forward. They encounter a riderless horse and discover an unconscious man by a creek. Hopalong recognizes the man as Ray Wilson, seemingly saved just in time:

Hopalong Cassidy [05:01]: "This is Ray Wilson."
[05:54] Hopalong Cassidy: "That's lucky we got here as soon as we did. He isn't dead."
California Carlson [05:57]: "Taint the lion's fault."

Attempting to stabilize Ray, they debate whether a mountain lion caused his injury. Hopalong decides to take him to the Paradise Flats General Store for medical attention, with Rucker’s assistance appearing increasingly dubious.

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Arrival of Mrs. Wilson and Jimmy

[09:02 – 15:42]

As Hopalong and California aid Ray, Mrs. Wilson and her son Jimmy arrive, desperate and distraught over Ray's disappearance. Mrs. Wilson reveals the mysterious vanishing of their cattle without a trace:

Mrs. Wilson [12:07]: "Everyone has left. We're just small homesteaders with only a few cows. But our herds have simply vanished, two or three at a time."
Hopalong Cassidy [12:14]: "Has anyone else wanted it? For instance, Rucker or Brody?"

Jimmy, eager to help, discloses his own encounter in Lion Canyon where he witnessed a shadowy figure acting suspiciously:

Jimmy Wilson [13:15]: "A sort of a hole. A big one. Up behind some willows. I was looking in. Then a lion screamed at me."

This revelation strengthens Hopalong's suspicions against Rucker and his motives in the area.

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Kidnapping of Ray Wilson

[15:37 – 16:48]

Tensions escalate when gunshots echo from outside the ranch house. Upon investigation, Hopalong and California discover that Ray has been kidnapped:

Mrs. Wilson [15:51]: "He's gone. Ray's gone."
Hopalong Cassidy [16:05]: "They kidnapped him."

Analyzing the situation, Hopalong deduces that the kidnappers aim to silence Ray to conceal their nefarious activities, prompting a determined pursuit to rescue him.

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Investigating the Mine and Uncovering the Truth

[17:32 – 20:21]

Guided by Jimmy's knowledge of a mysterious hole in Lion Canyon, the trio follows a hidden trail that leads them to an old mine entrance. Their investigation reveals a grim discovery: cattle were herded into the canyon, slaughtered, and the meat was illicitly sold, orchestrated by the antagonists Rucker and Dr. Brody. Key insights include:

Hopalong Cassidy [19:32]: "We don't need it. This explains enough. The cows were brought here by walking into that stream we followed."
Jimmy Wilson [19:42]: "Do you think it was Rucker and..."
Hopalong Cassidy [19:48]: "That's my guess, Jimmy."

Their findings lay the groundwork for confronting the culprits responsible for the homesteaders' plight.

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Showdown and Rescue

[20:28 – 25:45]

The climax unfolds as Hopalong, California, and Jimmy confront Lou Rucker and Dr. Brody at the Paradise Flats General Store. A tense confrontation ensues:

Lou Rucker [21:02]: "I thought you were smart, Cassidy, but you're as dumb as your partner."
Hopalong Cassidy [22:24]: "I've done a lot of killing for a piece of grassland, haven't you?"

Utilizing quick thinking and bravery, Hopalong and his allies overpower Rucker and Brody, ensuring Ray's safe return and halting their schemes. The vindicated homesteaders express profound gratitude:

Mrs. Wilson [25:33]: "Hoppy, I don't know how we can ever repay you and California."
California Carlson [25:37]: "Oh, shucks, ma'. Am. Paying me's plum easy. I never asked for more than a good meal in my stomach."

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Conclusion and Moral

[25:56 – 27:34]

The episode concludes with Hopalong Cassidy reflecting on the thwarted scheme to monopolize Paradise Flats, allowing homesteaders to return in peace. The narrative underscores themes of justice, community, and the enduring heroism of Hopalong Cassidy.

Narrator [16:33]: "When a couple of land grabbing cutthroats try attempted murder and blame it onto lions to cover up their crime, they'd better make certain first that Hoppy and California are nowhere in the vicinity."

A teaser hints at future adventures, promising more action and intrigue in the Wild West:

Narrator [26:48]: "In our next adventure, Hoppy and California come into town to buy flour and bacon for the Bar 20 ranch and find the townspeople in an uproar."

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Production Notes

This episode, The Killers of Lion Canyon, was written by Mike Jackson with original music under the direction of Albert Glasser. The characters are based on creations by Clarence E. Milford, and the production is brought to life by Walter White Jr., ensuring authenticity and nostalgia for classic Western radio drama enthusiasts.

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Key Takeaways

• Suspicion and Deception: Lou Rucker's initial friendliness masks his malicious intent to seize Paradise Flats.
• Community and Resilience: The collaboration between Hopalong, California, and the Wilson family exemplifies trust and collective effort in overcoming adversity.
• Justice Prevails: The dismantling of Rucker and Brody's scheme restores peace to the homesteaders, reinforcing the triumph of good over evil.

This episode serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hopalong Cassidy, blending suspense, action, and heartfelt moments that continue to captivate audiences.

Transcript

[California Carlson]

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 Hopalong Cassidy original air dates December 29, 1951 and the title is the Killers of Lion Canyon. Hope you enjoy, and again, thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

With action and suspense, out of the Old west comes the most famous hero of them all, Hopalong Cassidy. Starring William Boyd. The ring of the silver spurs heralds the most amazing man ever to ride the prairies of the early West, Hopalong Cassidy. The same Hoppy you cheer in motion pictures, and the same California you've laughed at a million times. Raw courage and quick shooting have built a legend around this famous hero. Hopalong is a name to be feared, respected and admired for this great cowboy rides the trails of adventure and excitement. William Boyd as Hopalong Cassidy and Andy Clyde as California. What's our story this time, Hoppy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We call this one the Killers of Lion Canyon. California and I were riding in the Skeleton Mountains. That's a range not far west of the Bar 20 where an old pal of mine had taken up homestead a few years back. He had written to me what good grass there was, and I thought we might use some of it for bar 20 range. We were just getting up to where the pine trees grow. The horses had their heads down as they worked their way up a steep canyon trail.

[California Carlson]

Poppy, this here mountaineer sure makes a man hungry, don't it?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Back there on the prairie, we cook more than you could eat.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, yeah, I know. But there's something about this here altitude. Poppy, I thought you'd friends around here. That ain't no friendly greeting.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No, it isn't. Wait a minute.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Look.

[California Carlson]

There's someone coming.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't know this man. California, get ready.

[California Carlson]

Guns right here in my hand.

[Lou Rucker]

Howdy, friends. Howdy. Hey, Put away your guns. I. I apologize for the shooting. My mistake, friends. I. I thought you was a mountain lion.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Do we look like mountain lions, mister?

[Lou Rucker]

No, not at close range. I. I saw something move and this is Lion Canyon. And it's full of hungry critters.

[California Carlson]

Sure, and that makes them mean like me. I'm hungry too. And when.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Never mind. California, I, I gu.

[Lou Rucker]

Strangers in here. I'm Lou Rucker. There's anything I can do? Just name it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Cassidy's my name. And this is California Carlson.

[Lou Rucker]

It wouldn't be Hop Along Cassidy, would it?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It would.

[Lou Rucker]

Well, I'm sure proud to meet you men. Now, if I can help you in any way, you just Go right ahead and ask.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's kind of you, Rucker. I'm looking for an old friend of mine, Ray Wilson, a homesteader. He took out some land at a place called Paradise Flats.

[Lou Rucker]

Ray Wilson? Well, I don't know. Wilson was moving out.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Moving out? Doesn't sound like Ray. Would anything be running him out, Rucker?

[Lou Rucker]

Well, when a man can't make a living, he moves, don't he, Cassidy? I tell you, you ride up to the Paradise Flat store and ask about him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

How do we get to the Paradise Store?

[Lou Rucker]

Follow this trail a short piece till it forks. Hey, turn right. The left fork won't take you nowhere.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I see. Turn right, not left.

[Lou Rucker]

Yeah, that's it. The left fork continues on up in Lion Canyon. Them varmints will jump a man anytime.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They're that bad, are they? Well, thank you, Rucker. I hope we'll see you again. Come on, California.

[California Carlson]

I think that Rucker feller seems real friendly.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, too friendly.

[California Carlson]

What you mean?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I think he took a shot at us for one thing, and I don't remember. Ray Wilson is a man who would move away from a good piece of grassland.

[California Carlson]

Ah, Hoppy, you're just looking for trouble.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm not looking for it, but I'm beginning to smell it. Well, here's the forks. We turn left.

[California Carlson]

Hey, hey, hey, hey. Hold on. Hold. Rucker said turn right.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's why we're going left. Rucker was too anxious. There must be something in this Lion Canyon. Something Rucker doesn't want us to see. California, look. There's a horse running up the trail.

[California Carlson]

No rider on him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Let's go.

[California Carlson]

That broomtail sure is running, Hoppy. We ain't never gonna catch up with him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I know, but we can trail it and find out about the owner. Must be headed toward a ranch somewhere.

[California Carlson]

What you seeing, Hoppy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

There's something else ahead. Can't make it out just yet. Looks like a man.

[California Carlson]

You ain't wrong either. That is a man, all right. Laying there aside the creek.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And he's laying face down. Hold up a minute. Get down and have a look. Now then, here. Turn him over.

[Lou Rucker]

She has a fat look at that face.

[California Carlson]

Clawed by a mountain lion, sure enough.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And that isn't all of it. This is Ray Wilson.

[Narrator]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story. The killers of Lion Canyon. Riding to see Ray Wilson. Hoppy and California are fired upon by Lou Rucker, who claims he was shooting at a mountain lion. Not trusting Rucker, Poppy ignores his warning to stay out of Lion Canyon. There they come Upon a riderless horse and soon afterwards an unconscious man. Ray Wilson.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's lucky we got here as soon as we did. He isn't dead.

[California Carlson]

Taint the lion's fault. It done its best. Maybe Wilson was climbing this here cliff of the water comes over, he might have fell off and the lion jumped him. That could have knocked him out.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

If it was a lion, I'm not so sure. Anyway, this bandana stops the blood. Now help me get him up on my horse. Steady him. Now let me swing up first. All right, we'll get him here in front of me in the saddle.

[Lou Rucker]

There we are.

[California Carlson]

Good thing he ain't triplets the size of him. Whoa, whoa, whoa. Hold still, you old lop ear.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, yeah, I think we can track that riderless horse. We'll get somewhere. Maybe the Paradise Flats.

[California Carlson]

Yeah, and maybe we'll get someplace where we don't want to be. But let's go.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, there's the Paradise Flats General store. But that horse, that isn't a riderless one.

[California Carlson]

Sure ain't. That's palomino.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, it is. The same kind Rucker was riding.

[California Carlson]

What you figure that means?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy Trouble.

[California Carlson]

See look over there across from the store. Looks like an old mine tunnel with the entrance boarded up.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, but there are a lot of old mines in these mountains. Now ease over toward the store, California. We'll get Wilson inside.

[California Carlson]

I wonder what they got in this store in the way of thirst quenching, stomach filling vittles, huh, Cassidy?

[Lou Rucker]

I thought I told you to. What's that you got there in your saddle?

[California Carlson]

Oh, just like you said, Rucker. Mountain lions is bad in that canyon. The this feller get jumped.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Rocker, we need a doctor.

[California Carlson]

A doctor?

[Lou Rucker]

Why, why sure, Cassidy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm lucky.

[Lou Rucker]

There's a doctor right inside. He owns the store. Now just ease this man out of your saddle. I'll carry him in.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right. There, I got him. Lay him there on the counter, Rucker.

[Lou Rucker]

Too bad about this. Your friend Ray Wilson in it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I think you know that.

[Lou Rucker]

Well, you can leave him with me, Cassidy. I'll take care of him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I thought you said there was a doctor here.

[Lou Rucker]

Why, yeah, I guess maybe I did.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You better produce that doctor now.

[Lou Rucker]

Oh, oh, sure. Brody. Dr. Brody. Dr. BrodY. Here's a patient for you. A patient for me? That's right, Doctor. I got clawed by a mountain lion. This is Hopalong Cassidy in California. Carlson. They found him. How come they did? What were they doing up Lion Canyon? How come they was let to go up Lion Canyon anyway? They took A wrong turn. I told them how to turn to get to the store here. And why didn't they? Well, either they didn't remember my directions or they didn't want to remember.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Dr. Brody, let's take care of this man. We stopped the blood, but something struck him on the head.

[Lou Rucker]

I see a cranial contusion. Concussion, no doubt. Best thing is to get him to my back room. My operating room. Rucker, you carry him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'll do the carrying.

[Lou Rucker]

No need of that, Cassidy. He's in good hands. Now, you just leave him with us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Rucker, when this man comes to, I want to hear what he has to say. Maybe you understand.

[Lou Rucker]

Why is that accusing me of something, Cassidy?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I don't accuse until I have all the facts, Rucker. But I might do some accusing when Ray Wilson gives me the facts.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy, there's a wagon outside. There's a woman and a boy in it.

[Lou Rucker]

Rucker, take the patient into the back room before Mrs. No, Rucker.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Keep your hands off.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Oh, Mr. Rucker. Mr. Rucker, have you seen Ray?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Yeah. Dad's horse came home without him.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Dad.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Dad. Oh, Ray. Ray isn't dead, ma'. Am. Now, please don't worry, Hoppy.

[California Carlson]

You want me to try?

[Mrs. Wilson]

And while you're hop along, Cassidy. And you're California, Ray was always talking about you two. Oh, I'm so glad you're here. This is our boy, Jimmy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

How are you, son? Mrs. Wilson, Dr. Brody says he can help Ray. What do you think?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Dr. Brody? Since when was he a doctor?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's just what I thought, Brody, I didn't think you were even a horse doctor. Mrs. Wilson. How far is it to your place?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Only a mile. Just over and down the first ridge.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, I hate to move, Ray, but we must. California, you use Ray up and get him out to the wagon.

[Lou Rucker]

Cassidy, I'm warning you. Don't you move that man.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Save your breath, Rucker. Go ahead, California. Mrs. Wilson. You and Jimmy, too. I'll be out in a minute.

[California Carlson]

Coffee? I hate to leave you with these rattlesnakes, but you're the boss. Help me hoist stray onto my shoulder.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California.

[Lou Rucker]

Rucker, you letting them get away with this? Unless you got any better ideas, Brody.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Shut up, rocker. That's very good advice.

[Lou Rucker]

And I got some for you, too, Cassidy. Get out of this country, you and that pardner of yours.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Not till after we've heard Ray Wilson talk. If it's trouble you're looking for, wrecker, let's have it now.

[Lou Rucker]

Yeah, you're plenty fast on the draw, Cassidy. But that ain't my way.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

No. You have what you call mountain lions. Do your fighting a record. Tell your lions they can find me at Ray Wilson's place anytime tonight. All right, Mrs. Wilson. You've done what you can for Ray. He'll come out of it soon. He's comfortable on this couch, miss. Just leave him a while.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Hoppy. I'm so grateful to you in California. Now, please sit down any place. Oh, I didn't notice. It's getting dark. I'd better light this table lamp. There, that's better. Jimmy, stay near your father and call me if he stirs any.

[California Carlson]

Ain't it funny how a table always makes me think of eatin'?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Oh, why, you poor man. You must be starved. I'll go and fix something.

[California Carlson]

Any old thing will do, Mrs. Wilson. Just some meat and potatoes and coffee and a little cream. And maybe a piece of pie if you got it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Are you sure that's all? California?

[California Carlson]

Well, I could use some beans and.

[Lou Rucker]

A little hot gravy.

[California Carlson]

And maybe a small plate of hot biscuits a dripping with butter and honey.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold on, hold on. Think. Mrs. Wilson has the idea.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Oh, dear. Well, I'll have to see what's in the kitchen.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California is always empty, Mrs. Wilson. But first I want to know a few things. Why were you and Ray leaving Paradise Flats?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Well, everyone has left. We're just small homesteaders with only a few cows. But our herds have simply vanished, two or three at a time.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Did the mountain lions get them?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Well, that's what we had to believe. But the strange thing is we never found any carcasses.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mrs. Wilson, why did Ray want to leave?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Ray didn't want to leave at all. Paradise Flats has such fine grass. It's a big mountain meadow.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Has anyone else wanted it? For instance, Rucker or Brody?

[Mrs. Wilson]

Well, they have said Paradise Flats should be one big ranch instead of being filled with homesteaders. But they always acted friendly enough.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

So you can't say what happened to your cattle?

[Mrs. Wilson]

No, I can't. We had only a herd of 10 cows left last week. They vanished all at once.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And still no sign of where they went?

[Mrs. Wilson]

No. Except last night Ray told me he'd found something. Something he wanted to go out and take a look at before we pulled out today. I don't know where it was.

[California Carlson]

Mom.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Mom. Dad's talking.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

What did he say, son?

[Jimmy Wilson]

I couldn't tell.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Maybe he'll talk to you, Mrs. Wilson.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Ray. What is it, Ray? Tell me.

[Lou Rucker]

Don't. Don't whip Jimmy. He found. He found the.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Jimmy. What in the world Is your father saying, why should you be whipped?

[Jimmy Wilson]

I guess maybe because I rode in the Lion Canyon yesterday.

[Mrs. Wilson]

You've been warned about that?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Yes, but I just had to see it just once before we left.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And what was it you found, son?

[Jimmy Wilson]

A sort of a hole. A big one. Up behind some willows. I was looking in. Then a lion screamed at me. I sure got out of there fast, Huffy.

[California Carlson]

That makes sense. Lions, just like Rucker said.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It begins to make something else, too, son. Could that be an old mine you found?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Sort of, yes. I told dad about it, and I think that's where he went today.

[Lou Rucker]

Hoppy.

[California Carlson]

What?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Figure that makes a shortcut, maybe through the ridge. There's an old mine entrance up near the store, remember? And the day Rucker beat us over there from Lion Canyon.

[California Carlson]

You're dead right, Hoppy? He sure did.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

If Rake had just tell us a little more.

[Mrs. Wilson]

He hasn't even whispered.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

A doctor could bring him out of it. Mrs. Wilson. How far is it to a doctor?

[Mrs. Wilson]

20 miles. Around the mountain, by the road.

[Jimmy Wilson]

But, mom, it's only five straight across. I could ride it. Dad's horse is still saddled out there in the shed.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mrs. Wilson, it's our best chance. The boy can do it. Go ahead, son.

[Jimmy Wilson]

On my way, sir.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You got a fine boy there, Mrs. Wilson. No need to worry about him.

[California Carlson]

Speaking about worrying, Hoppy, my stomach sure getting worried that maybe I ain't got the brains enough to feed it.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right, California, if Mrs. Wilson wants to start supper.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Oh, yes, I. I'd better see what there is. Most of our stores are packed, but there must be something left.

[California Carlson]

There sure better be. Cause I'm getting mighty old. Fired wheat from.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Jimmy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Grab your gun, California, out in front. Over there, near our horses. Come on.

[California Carlson]

There he is. Cop off to the left. I'll get him.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hold it, California. That's the boy. Head toward him. Poppy. Hoppy. Right here. Easy now. What happened, son?

[Jimmy Wilson]

I was walking in the shed in the dark. And someone was here at your horses.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

He.

[Jimmy Wilson]

He saw me and then fired two shots.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Didn't hit me.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Then he ran off.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Could you tell who it was in the gun?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Flash it. It looked like Mr. Brody from the Paradise Store.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Poppy, look.

[California Carlson]

The house went dark.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come on, Mrs. Wilson. They're after Ray.

[Mrs. Wilson]

They shot me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Unlock the door. Let's break it down. Come on, California. Both together now. Keep your gun ready.

[Mrs. Wilson]

He's gone. Ray's gone.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

They've kidnapped him.

[Narrator]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and our story. The killers of Lion Canyon. While Hoppy and California are trying to understand what had knocked their friend Ray Wilson unconscious. Sudden gunshots draw them outside the ranch house. A moment later, they hear Mrs. Wilson scream. Running back into the house, they find that Ray Wilson has been kidnapped.

[Mrs. Wilson]

It was all so fast. I just don't know what happened.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I see how it was, Mrs. Wilson. One man drew us out with a shot near our horses. Someone else sneaked in here through the back door. And took Ray.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Yes. Ray tried to sit up when you went out. He seemed almost well. I think he was trying to talk.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Those two didn't dare let him talk. They had to get him away so he couldn't tell us what he knows.

[Jimmy Wilson]

I heard their horses, Hoppy. I can tell which way they went, even in the dark. They're taking the ridge trail over to the Paradise Store.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Good work, son. Have you got your dad's horse ready?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Yes, sir.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Can you lead us to that hole you found in the side of Lion Canyon?

[Jimmy Wilson]

I sure can. We can go right up to it. It's around a sort of a rocky cliff.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy, what in termination's the good of that?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I'm staking everything. It's a shortcut through Ridge.

[Jimmy Wilson]

We might even get to the Paradise Store before they do.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, you're gone now, Mrs. Wilson. Don't worry. Come on, California. Jimmy, let's go.

[California Carlson]

What's the use of having horses if all we do is walk? And up a stream, too.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Keep on coming, California. You have one thing to be thankful for. There's a full moon tonight, so we can see our way. Jimmy, how much farther?

[Jimmy Wilson]

These here are the willows. The opening is just on through. There it is.

[Narrator]

See?

[Jimmy Wilson]

This stream comes right out of a big hole in the mountain.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, it does. Hold on a minute, Hoppy.

[California Carlson]

That rock cliff we just come around is where we found Ray Wilson. Safety?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's right. And this is an old mine entrance. High enough to lead our horses in. You got your gun ready?

[California Carlson]

Why, you figured we might meet with that there mountain lion?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

If we do, it'll have only two legs. You follow me. Jimmy. Drop in behind. Come on.

[California Carlson]

Plumb black in here. Ain't it cold? Cold as ice.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, I can feel it. Jimmy, you all right?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Sure, Hoppy.

[California Carlson]

I never did like being under no mountain. Like being buried in a grave.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Keep up close to me, California. We're getting along fine.

[California Carlson]

Doggone it. Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hoppy.

[California Carlson]

Hoppy. Wait, Wait. I dropped my gun.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

All right. See if you can find it. Can you find it?

[California Carlson]

No, no. The God darn thing. But here's something. Feels like a piece of ice.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I better strike a match.

[California Carlson]

Jumping catfish. It is ice.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, and look. Here's a door with bars across it off at one side. It's a room. The walls are coated with ice.

[California Carlson]

Poppy, are you seeing what I'm seeing in there? Oh, and the match went out here.

[Lou Rucker]

I'll get it.

[California Carlson]

See that?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. That's butchered beef hung up on racks.

[California Carlson]

Well, I heard hell of ice and mountain caves, but this is the first time I ever actual seen it.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Let me see too.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come ahead, son.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Say, I'll bet this is what dad found.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, if he didn't, he came pretty close.

[California Carlson]

There goes the match again. I'll light another. Happy. I'll.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

We don't need it. This explains enough. The cows were brought here by walking into that stream we followed. That's why they never left any tracks. Then they were butchered.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Do you think it was Rucker and.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Brody that did it, Hoppy? That's my guess, Jimmy. How did Brody have supplies hauled to.

[Jimmy Wilson]

His store in a big covered wagon?

[Lou Rucker]

Sure.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Then the beef was taken out the front entrance of the mine. The covered wagon hauled it off to be sold. That's the way the homesteaders have been robbed.

[California Carlson]

Still don't get us out of here.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

The front entrance can't be far away. I figure the ridge over us is high and narrow. This tunnel won't be long. You got your gun, California? Yep.

[California Carlson]

Yep. I picked her up all right.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Come on. Go slow now. I see something ahead.

[California Carlson]

Getting kind of light ahead. Up there, ain't it?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Mine entrance is open. There's a little moonlight. That entrance was closed today.

[California Carlson]

Maybe someone heard us.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Better stop. California, you come ahead with me. Jimmy, you stay here with the horses.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Yes, sir.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

You think you can manage all three horses by yourself?

[Jimmy Wilson]

I'll do my best, sir.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Good boy. All right, California, let's go. So far, so good. No one in the mine and no one here in front of the store.

[California Carlson]

I don't see how you know where you are. You're near as dark in here as it was in the mine.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah. Follow me along beside the building. Remember Brody had a back room. Look, California, there's a light coming through a crack.

[Lou Rucker]

Go up easy now.

[California Carlson]

Looks like the light's coming from around a door.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Here it is. I'll take a peek inside.

[California Carlson]

See anything?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hobby Ray Wilson's in there. He's sitting up on a box. Brody's with him. I wonder.

[California Carlson]

Wonder where Rucker is.

[Lou Rucker]

He's right behind you.

[Narrator]

Drop those guns.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Quick. What is.

[Narrator]

Now back to Hop along, Cassidy.

[Lou Rucker]

I thought you were smart, Cassidy, but you're as dumb as your partner. Fallen for my trick?

[California Carlson]

Yeah, but I didn't see you if it wasn't so darn dark.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Never mind, California.

[Lou Rucker]

All right, Brody, open the door. I'm bringing him in. Smooth work, Rucker. Sure, I tailed him from the mine entrance and right up here to the door. I'll go ahead. You two forget about your guns. I've got them, Hoppy. California.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Ray. How are you?

[Lou Rucker]

Now, ain't it nice for old friends to meet again? Too bad you won't be seeing each other very long.

[California Carlson]

We'll be dead.

[Lou Rucker]

Well, now, that's smart of you, California. The first smart thing I've heard you say.

[California Carlson]

If I could just get my paws on you, Rocker.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I've done a lot of killing for a piece of grassland, haven't you? I see your game. Drive out the homesteaders, then you take over Paradise Flats.

[Lou Rucker]

Well, that's real interesting, Cassidy. Got anything else you know?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, I know a mountain lion didn't do the killing. You jump a man and knock him out. Then you cut him so there's plenty of blood. You make sure the lions will get him, then.

[Lou Rucker]

Right again, Cassidy. But that won't happen to you, Rucker. What do you aim to do with this bunch, Rudy? I'll tell you. Cassidy and his pal and Wilson are going to be found dead in the morning. Killed each other in a gunfight. We. We won't know why they shot each other. Ain't none of our business anyways.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It won't work, Rocker.

[Lou Rucker]

Tell me one reason why not.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, because. Because. Well, Rucker, it seems to me you ought to know the reason yourself.

[Lou Rucker]

Keep talking, Cassidy. I like to hear you make a fool of yourself. Yeah, and this is the guy we thought was so smart. Well, Cassidy, did you figure out yet why it won't work?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

It won't work because you've still got the rest of our bunch to deal with.

[Lou Rucker]

That's good. The rest of your bunch? Cassidy, nobody comes into this country without my knowing it. And I know you two came in alone. Hey, did I hear something? Ah, Brody, there ain't nothing to hear. Well, listen. Where.

[California Carlson]

Wait.

[Lou Rucker]

Sounds like a whole gang. Open the door, Rucker. See who they are.

[Narrator]

I can't make them out, whoever they are.

[Lou Rucker]

Here's a lead greeting for them.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California tank. California tank. I've got this.

[California Carlson]

You all right?

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Yeah, I'm fine. California. I got this coyote pinned down this year, Brody.

[California Carlson]

Feels more like a skunk.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Ray. Are you strong enough to get that gun over there.

[Lou Rucker]

I sure am, Hoppy. Seeing that fight just about cured me.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

That's fine. We got our hands full, so you cover them.

[Lou Rucker]

I've got them, Hoppy. I just wish they'd make a move so I'd have an excuse to plug them.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

California, take that rope and tie him up.

[California Carlson]

Right, Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

And now for a talk with the rest of our band. All right, Jimmy. Come on in, Jimmy.

[Lou Rucker]

A kid.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Gee whiz, what a mess. Hello, dad.

[Lou Rucker]

Hello, son.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Hello, Hoppy.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Hello, Jimmy. Now what have you got to say for yourself?

[Jimmy Wilson]

Nothing, sir. I guess I'm sorry I didn't keep the horses down in the mine like I promised, but. But I just couldn't stay away.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I knew you couldn't, son. I know, boys. And I knew you couldn't keep away for long. To tell you the truth, Jimmy, I was counting on your help.

[Jimmy Wilson]

Gee, dad. Mom's outside here, Jimmy. Yes, she drove over in the wagon. Said she couldn't stay away. Here she is now, Ray.

[Lou Rucker]

Oh, that's all right.

[Narrator]

I'm all right, Nellie.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

I guess we're all all right. Except those two there on the floor. Brody and Rucker. A couple of mountain lions who are going to have a nice long rest in the zoo.

[Lou Rucker]

Hoppy, I guess there's nothing I can say but thanks.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, forget it, Ray. Just tell the homesteaders they can come back to Paradise Flats. They won't be bothered anymore.

[Mrs. Wilson]

Hoppy, I don't know how we can ever repay you in California.

[California Carlson]

Oh, shucks, ma'. Am. Paying me's plum easy. I never asked for more than a good meal in my stomach.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

There he goes again.

[Narrator]

When a couple of land grabbing cutthroats try attempted murder and blame it onto lions to cover up their crime, they'd better make certain first that Hoppy and California are nowhere in the vicinity. In our next adventure, Hoppy and California come into town to buy flour and bacon for the Bar 20 ranch and find the townspeople in an uproar. The bank has gone broke and the men responsible turn out to be the Wastrils of Juarez. Hopalong Cassidy, starring William Boyd, is transcribed and produced in the west by Walter White Jr. The killers of Lion Canyon was written by Mike Jackson with original music under the personal direction of Albert Glasser. All stories are based upon the characters created by Clarence E. Milford. This is a Commodore production.

[Hopalong Cassidy]

Sam.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright for more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.