The Missing Heir | Challenge of the Yukon (02-26-52)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns – "The Missing Heir" | Challenge of the Yukon (02-26-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Broadcast Date: February 26, 1952
Podcast Release Date: August 27, 2025

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Episode Overview

In this episode of Challenge of the Yukon, titled "The Missing Heir," Sergeant Preston and his loyal dog King are drawn into a high-stakes search for the rightful heir to a vast English estate. The tale takes listeners into the snowbound villages of the Yukon, weaving suspense, danger, and a touch of romance as Sergeant Preston races against unscrupulous rivals to solve a decades-old family mystery. Restoration of this classic radio drama delivers the vivid sounds and thrilling atmosphere of the golden age of radio, now enriched for today’s listeners.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Mission: Finding the Missing Heir

[04:40] – [08:14]

• Setup: Sergeant Preston is summoned to police headquarters by Inspector Conrad, where he meets Mr. John Holly from London.
  • Mr. Holly’s firm seeks Ernest Deming, heir to the Deming estate in England.
  • Ernest’s parents, missionaries in Yukon, died during an epidemic. Last known information is a letter from Ernest's father, Leroy Deming.
• Objective: If Ernest is alive, he inherits the estate; if not, it goes to a notorious relative, Jeffers Hooker.
• Plan: Trace Ernest via postmarked letter from "40 Mile" and investigate local Eskimo villages for clues.

Notable Quote:
“Now, if Ernest Deming, who is now about 18 years old, is alive, he is heir to the estates and titles. Otherwise he'll go to a nephew of Lord Deming, a wastrel and scoundrel named Jeffers Hooker.” – Narrator, [07:22]

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2. The Villain's Scheme

[08:14] – [09:37]

• Scene: Jeffers Hooker, the nephew, confides in his accomplice Kane at a Dawson café.
  • They plot to locate Ernest before Preston and ensure he "is put out of the picture."
  • They depart for 40 Mile with supplies and a sense of urgency.

Notable Moment:
“Then we must see to it that he's put out of the picture.” – Jeffers Hooker, [08:43]

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3. The Local Hero: Kaylock’s Rescue

[09:05] – [11:17]

• Scene: Lucy Pittman, banker’s daughter, is saved from a wolf by Kaylock, a strikingly articulate young Eskimo.
  • Lucy notes Kaylock’s unique characteristics and education.
  • Kaylock humbly refuses any reward, showing his noble character.

Notable Quote:
“You know, somehow you're different from other Eskimo boys I've met. The way you speak, for instance.” – Lucy Pittman, [10:46]

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4. Kaylock & Lucy: Affection and Alienation

[11:24] – [13:22]

• Development: Kaylock and Lucy spend time together, arousing local gossip.
  • Lucy’s father worries about their association.
  • Kaylock, aware of social barriers and feeling "different," decides to distance himself from Lucy.

Notable Dialogue:
“I must tell you I am ashamed that I do not feel for my people as I should. Lucy... My mother was good, kind… she told me, Kaylock, you are different. I love you as my son, but you are different.” – Kaylock, [12:12]

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5. The Intersection: Kaylock as a Guide

[13:34] – [14:19]

• Hooker and Kane hire Kaylock to guide them through Eskimo villages under the pretense of trading trinkets, hoping to locate the missing heir.
  • The storekeeper vouches for Kaylock as an ideal guide, noting his English skills.
  • Their real motive remains hidden from Kaylock.

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6. Clues Emerge: Preston’s Investigation

[15:30] – [19:24]

• Sergeant Preston and Mr. Holly discover:
  • Kaylock's special upbringing and his mother’s hints at him being "different."
  • Lucy provides Kaylock’s dropped glove so King, Preston's dog, can track him.
  • The man who changed English banknotes at the bank matches Hooker’s description, indicating he is indeed the villain.

Notable Exchange:
“I think we should try to find that fellow.” – Sergeant Preston, [17:54]
“Kaylock isn’t in trouble. All we want is information.” – Mr. Holly, [18:00]

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7. Confirmation: Kaylock’s True Identity

[20:43] – [21:41]

• Hooker feigns interest in a ‘white man’s book’ that Kaylock owns – a Bible left to him by his mother.
  • While Kaylock fetches another suitcase, Hooker cunningly unlocks the Bible and discovers documents proving Kaylock is Ernest Deming.
  • Hooker destroys the evidence by throwing it into the snow and plans to eliminate Kaylock.

Notable Quotes:
“By Jove, that fellow Kaylock, he must be Ernest.” – Hooker, [22:35]
“Quiet. Dig it here for the next village. Then on the way we'll get rid of him.” – Hooker, [23:33]

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8. Deadly Ambush and Timely Rescue

[25:21] – [26:39]

• Climax: Hooker and Kane lure Kaylock to a cliff edge, intending to kill him.
  • Sergeant Preston and King arrive just in time; King leaps into action, disarming the villains and saving Kaylock.
  • Preston confirms Kaylock's identity with the pages retrieved from the snow.

Memorable Action Sequence:
“The shot that caused Jeff to fall with a wound in the leg, but he still held his gun. Before he could raise it to shoot again, King leaped at him with a savage growl.” – Narrator, [26:16]

Notable Quote:
“Sergeant, you saved my life. I am grateful, Ernest.” – Kaylock/Ernest, [26:39]

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9. Reunion and Revelations

[27:01] – [28:39]

• Preston brings Kaylock/Ernest and Mr. Holly to Lucy and her father:
  • The truth of Kaylock’s lineage is revealed: he is Lord Ernest Deming, Earl of Richland.
  • Lucy’s father is flabbergasted at the turn of events.
  • Ernest asks Lucy to join him in England; she happily accepts.

Notable Quotes:
“Pardon, Mr. Pittman, but I'm sure you haven't met Lord Deming, Earl of Richland… I'm introducing this young man, sir.” – Sergeant Preston, [27:37]
“Lucy loved him when he was just an Eskimo. I think they'll get along all right.” – Mr. Holly, [28:30]

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• “Kaylock does not want gold for doing what anyone would do.” – Kaylock, [10:28]
• “You stand in my way… walk to the edge over there.” – Hooker, [25:47]
• “I thought the boy was a goner for a moment. Sergeant, you saved my life.” – Mr. Holly, [26:39]
• “Oh, Kaylock. Now, you must call me Ernest. Lucy, I hope to take you to England if you'll.” – Ernest Deming, [28:15]

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Timeline of Important Segments

| Timestamp | Segment Description | |-----------|--------------------------------------------------------| | 04:40 | Introduction of the missing heir case | | 08:14 | Villain Hooker lays out his plan | | 09:05 | Lucy is rescued by Kaylock | | 11:24 | Kaylock and Lucy: affection and parting | | 13:34 | Hooker hires Kaylock as guide | | 15:30 | Preston investigates Kaylock and Hooker’s trail | | 20:43 | Hooker discovers Kaylock’s secret | | 25:21 | Kaylock’s life threatened – rescue by Preston/King | | 27:01 | The truth revealed to Lucy and her father | | 28:39 | Conclusion and resolution of the case |

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Tonal and Story Notes

The episode maintains the atmospheric earnestness and wholesome, period-specific tone characteristic of classic radio Westerns, blending suspense, honor, and romance. Dialogue is formal and straightforward, with the narrative driven by strong moral themes: justice, identity, and the triumph of good over evil.

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Conclusion

"The Missing Heir" delivers a satisfying blend of mystery and heroism as Sergeant Preston and Yukon King restore justice in the Yukon wilds. The restored audio elevates the drama, making the snowbound adventure and heartfelt ending as compelling as when it first aired. The surprising revelation of Kaylock’s heritage, the thwarting of Hooker's plot, and the romantic resolution for Ernest and Lucy wrap the episode with warmth and excitement for both nostalgic and new listeners alike.

Transcript

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[Sergeant Preston]

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[Sergeant Preston]

It's all right.

[Narrator]

We're so far up here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Look at me. Take a deep breath.

[Narrator]

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[Sergeant Preston]

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[Narrator]

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Now.

[Sergeant Preston]

As gunshots echo across the windswept, snow covered reaches of the Wild Northwest. Quaker popped wheat and Quaker popped rice. The breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the Northwest, blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. One king on your husky Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches. Back to the days of the Gold Rush with Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puff Rice. It's nice and when you hear that.

[Narrator]

Shooting, you're Dern Tootin.

[Sergeant Preston]

The Quaker makes the ones shot from guns, so why not start off every day with a bang for breakfast. Enjoy the ones shot from guns. Delicious Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat.

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[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police entered Inspector Conrad's office at Mounted Police Headquarters in Dawson.

[Mr. Holly]

Sergeant Preston reporting, Inspector.

[Narrator]

Good morning, Sergeant. Sit down. Be comfortable.

[Mr. Holly]

Thank you, sir.

[Narrator]

I sent for you, Sergeant, because I'm expecting someone here at 10 o'. Clock. I want you to meet him and hear his story.

[Mr. Holly]

Of course, Inspector. It's just about 10 now.

[Narrator]

Yes. I hope he doesn't keep us waiting. Here he is now.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come in.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston, this is Mr. John Holly.

[Mr. Holly]

How do you do, Mr. Holley. How do you do?

[Narrator]

Drop a chair, Mr. Holley. Thanks, Inspector. Now, I suggest that you tell the Sergeant what you told me last night. All right. I represent a firm of counselors in London, Sergeant. I was sent here to the Canadian province to search for a certain young man. I must find him or find definite proof of his death if he is no longer living.

[Mr. Holly]

I see. What's his name?

[Narrator]

His name is Ernest Deming, but I'm sure he's never used the name.

[Mr. Holly]

Huh.

[Narrator]

Why not Let me explain. Twenty years ago, a chap named Leroy Deming left England against his father's wishes and came to Canada as a missionary, bringing his young bride with him. He was the youngest son of Lord Deming, Earl of Richland.

[Mr. Holly]

That's interesting.

[Narrator]

About three years later, Lord Deming received a hastily written letter from the young missionary. We found the letter recently among his lordship's effects. Mr. Hawley has that letter with him, Sergeant. That's right. It's right here. I'll read. It says, dear dad, I'm writing this note in great haste and sending it to the nearest trading post by an Eskimo who is going to Try to get through for help by dog sled. The theory has broken out at our small mission. We are practically snowbound here and many have died. Helen and I are doing our best, but it seems impossible that we'll escape the epidemic. When the disease broke out and before the snow blocked us in, an Eskimo woman took our six months old son Ernest to safety in a nearby Eskimo village. When danger has passed, and if we survive, I write you again, your loving son, Leroy.

[Mr. Holly]

Was that the last word received by Leroy's father?

[Narrator]

Evidently so. And the father made no effort to find him. His Lordship's oldest son died a few years ago without issue. And Lord Deming died within the past year. We don't know what steps were taken, if any, to find out more about the baby, Ernest. But we did come across a cablegram from the authorities here stating the baby's father and mother had both died during the epidemic.

[Mr. Holly]

I see.

[Narrator]

Now, if Ernest Deming, who is now about 18 years old, is alive, he is heir to the estates and titles. Otherwise he'll go to a nephew of Lord Deming, a wastrel and scoundrel named Jeffers Hooker.

[Mr. Holly]

Does the nephew know of that letter?

[Narrator]

Yes. Yes. When he claimed the estates and titles, he was shown the letter and told that a search was to be made for Ernest Deming. Sergeant, I want you to help Mr. Hawley in his search for Lord Deming's heir.

[Mr. Holly]

Very well, sir. Is there a postmark on the envelope, Mr. Holley?

[Narrator]

Yes. Yes, it was postmarked 40 mile, Yukon territory.

[Mr. Holly]

And that's where we'll go from there. We'll start our search among the Eskimo villagers, foreigners, Deming.

[Narrator]

When will you start, Sergeant?

[Mr. Holly]

This afternoon, if Mr. Holley's willing.

[Narrator]

The sooner the better. It shouldn't be too difficult to find an English lad among those Eskimos.

[Sergeant Preston]

At a table near the front window on the Dawson Cafe, Jeffers Hooker, Lord Deming's nephew, sat with a rough looking companion, talking in low voices.

[Narrator]

Rather lucky I ran into you, Kane, on the way up here from Seattle. You haven't changed your mind about helping me, have you? If you pay what you promised, I'll.

[Mr. Holly]

Get through with it. Now, what are your plans, Jeb?

[Narrator]

To leave a 40 mile right away and find young Deming before he does.

[Mr. Holly]

Then what?

[Narrator]

Then we must see to it that he's put out of the picture.

[Mr. Holly]

Zag in it. The dog sledding supplies are waiting out back. Right now.

[Narrator]

Then we shall leave. Mr. Holly is at Mountie headquarters. Probably trying to get information. Come in. We can't waste time.

[Sergeant Preston]

On a trail about a mile out from 40 mile, a young girl about 18, moved along toward town on snowshoes. Lucy Pittman, daughter of the town banker, was a kind hearted and determined young lady who in spite of her father's objections, befriended some of the less fortunate people around town. Lucy was returning home after paying a visit to an impoverished widow outside of 40 mile. As the girl rounded abandoned the trail. She stopped suddenly and stared in fright as a large timber wolf crossed the trail in front of her.

[Narrator]

Go away. Go away.

[Sergeant Preston]

Lucy stood rooted to the spot as the large vicious looking animal moved slowly forward with bared fangs. Then as the wolf crouched as if about to spring, the girl screamed.

[Narrator]

Help. Help.

[Sergeant Preston]

Help.

[Narrator]

Help. Help.

[Sergeant Preston]

You are all right?

[Lucy Pittman]

Yes, yes, yes, I'm all right. But if you hadn't come along, I. Well, you saved my life. Thank you.

[Narrator]

It was nothing.

[Lucy Pittman]

You mean to save my life was nothing?

[Narrator]

I did not mean that. I am very glad to save one so beautiful. I am Kaylock.

[Lucy Pittman]

I'm Lucy Pittman. Kaylock, my father will reward you with gold for what you've done.

[Narrator]

Kaylock does not want gold for doing what anyone would do. You should not be out here alone on snowshoes. It is most dangerous.

[Sergeant Preston]

For a moment, Lucy didn't answer. She stared at the handsome young Eskimo standing before her and noticed his weather browned but smooth skin and regular features.

[Lucy Pittman]

You know, somehow you're different from other Eskimo boys I've met. The way you speak, for instance.

[Narrator]

My mother, Kuna had books from the white Man's mission. She could read and write. She taught me much.

[Lucy Pittman]

Oh, I see. Well, if you're on the way to town, my father will want to thank you.

[Narrator]

You have thanked me. That is enough. Now you ride on sled. K Lock will take you to home of your father.

[Lucy Pittman]

That's very kind of you.

[Narrator]

I take snow.

[Lucy Pittman]

Thank you.

[Narrator]

It will not take us long to reach town.

[Lucy Pittman]

I'm ready.

[Sergeant Preston]

During the next few days, Kaylock came to town often and each time managed to see and talk to Lucy Pittman. One morning at breakfast, Lucy's father, a widower, spoke strongly to his daughter.

[Narrator]

Lucy. I've been meaning to speak to you about a young Eskimo. That fella Kaylock.

[Lucy Pittman]

What about Kaylock?

[Narrator]

Well, people are beginning to talk.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do you realize that?

[Lucy Pittman]

You mean because Kaylock and I are friends?

[Narrator]

Because you and that Eskimo meet openly and walk through town like. Well, like he was actually courting you?

[Lucy Pittman]

Well, I almost wish he were Con Nations.

[Narrator]

Take it. Lucy, come to your senses. I'll not have you.

[Lucy Pittman]

You see, last night I met K Lock and he said he wanted to tell me something. I was surprised and very sorry to hear what he had to say.

[Narrator]

Much pleasure has come to me being with you, Lucy. But it must not go on. I have decided.

[Lucy Pittman]

I don't understand. K Lock.

[Narrator]

You are a fine, beautiful white girl. I, Kalloc, am Escobel. I must tell you I am ashamed that I do not feel for my people as I should. Lucy Kuna. My mother was good, kind. Often, before she died, she told me, kaylock, you are different. I love you as my son, but you are different. I hope you will be happy in village of our people. But I am afraid for you, Kaylock. Afraid?

[Lucy Pittman]

What did she mean, Kaylock?

[Narrator]

I. I do not know. I. I shall not see you anymore, Kallak. The Eskimo must stay among his own. Goodbye, Lucy. It is better this way. Goodbye, Kaylock.

[Lucy Pittman]

Wait. Come back. Kaylock. I must see you again. I must.

[Narrator]

Under. He has more sense than I gave him credit for. It saves me the trouble of ordering him to stay away from me.

[Lucy Pittman]

Dad, you'll never understand just how I felt about Kaylock. Never.

[Sergeant Preston]

That Same morning at 40 Mile Trading Post, Jeffers Hooker and his companion Kane were talking to the storekeeper.

[Narrator]

Maybe you could tell us where we might find an Eskimo guide who knows.

[Mr. Holly]

The villages around here.

[Narrator]

Well, now, let me see. Offhand, I can't think of one. But by jiminy, here's just a man for you. Speaks good English, too. Klock, come here a minute. You call me, yeah. These two men want to hire a guy. Neskimo. I figure he'll be just the one for him.

[Mr. Holly]

You know the country and the villages around here, Kellogg.

[Narrator]

Yes, I know. I think he'll do things all right. Weary. We're traitors. Kellogg.

[Sergeant Preston]

We want to go to all the.

[Narrator]

Eskimo villages near forty Mile.

[Mr. Holly]

And I sure hope we find what we're looking for.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment.

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[Sergeant Preston]

Golly, fellas and girls, watch how fast that young Indian swimmer can swim. Why, he's just like a fish. Look at the power in his strokes. And here he comes back already. Good swim, boy. You must be the fastest and most powerful swimmer in the Yukon. Me beat every brave and tribe. I suppose you're pretty smart about what you eat. Must be so. Say, do you eat Quaker puffed rice and Quaker puffed wheat? Oh, every day, sure, as sun rises.

[Narrator]

Good.

[Sergeant Preston]

Tell me what you like best about the ones shot from gun. Oh, they big. Indians like things big. Sure. That's because they're exploded up to eight times normal size. Me like good flavor and Quaker pop. Wheat and rice are wonderful with milk or cream and fruit. Indian brave know they good for you. That's right. A strong brave like you needs plenty of good energy. And the ones shot from guns is give you extra food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron. So you fellas and girls take a tip. There's nothing like the one and only Quaker puffed rice and Quaker puffed wheat shot from guns. Try them for breakfast tomorrow. Now, to continue that afternoon, Preston and Mr. Holly arrived in Forty Mile. They too stopped at the trading post to replenish their supplies and get information. Briefly, the sergeant told the storekeeper the facts and asked about any young Eskimo who might really be white. They were told about Keylock and that he had left that morning with two men whom the storekeeper described. Preston's interest in Kellogg was aroused, and when he learned of the young Eskimo's friendship with Lucy, Pittman decided to question her. Later, the sergeant and Mr. Holly were talking to Lucy at her home.

[Mr. Holly]

Lucy, did Kellogg say anything unusual that you remember?

[Lucy Pittman]

Well, yes. Something that I told dad about. It seems that Kaylock's mother told him that she loved him as her son, but that he was different. That she was afraid he'd never be happy with the Eskimos.

[Mr. Holly]

That's interesting.

[Narrator]

Very. I think we should try to find that fellow.

[Lucy Pittman]

Why? What has he done? Sergeant?

[Mr. Holly]

Don't worry, Lucy. Kaylock isn't in trouble. All we want is information.

[Lucy Pittman]

The last time I saw Kaylock was this morning. He was waiting outside the bank for the men who were using him as a guide. I saw him through the window.

[Mr. Holly]

Why did the men come into the bank? Do not.

[Lucy Pittman]

Yes. One of them, the tall one, changed some English banknotes for gold.

[Narrator]

English banknotes, you say?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Well, that's unusual, isn't it, Sergeant?

[Mr. Holly]

It isn't unusual for someone who's just come to the Yukon from England, such as Lord Deming's nephew, Jeffers Hooker, for instance.

[Narrator]

See, you're. You're right. Hooker is tall, dark, thin nose, eyes close together, clean shaven.

[Mr. Holly]

Lucy, does that describe the man who changed those banknotes?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Lucy Pittman]

Yes, it does. Except that he wore a beard.

[Mr. Holly]

Beard could easily be grown while making a trip from London by Joe.

[Narrator]

Sergeant, you must be right in thinking he's Jeff as Hooker.

[Mr. Holly]

He stands to lose a great deal if earnest dubbing is found. Mr. Holly, I had got something that Kaylock had worn, Something to give King his sentence.

[Lucy Pittman]

I have something. Last night, Kaylock dropped a glove. I was hoping he'd come back to get it. It's in the table drawer.

[Mr. Holly]

Would you mind letting me take it along?

[Lucy Pittman]

Well, no, I'll get it for you. Here it is.

[Mr. Holly]

Oh, thank you.

[Lucy Pittman]

Perhaps if you come back this way, you'll stop and tell me how it. Well, if Kaylock is safe, of course.

[Mr. Holly]

We might even bring Kellogg back with us to see you. Let's go, Mr. Holly.

[Narrator]

Goodbye.

[Lucy Pittman]

Goodbye.

[Mr. Holly]

Bye, Lucy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Once outside, Sergeant Preston, with Mr. Holly on the sled, went to the front of the bank. There he stopped the dog team working. Hello.

[Narrator]

I. I don't quite quite understand what you intend to do, Sergeant.

[Mr. Holly]

Mr. Holly, from what we've learned of Kaylock, I think he might be the man we're seeking.

[Narrator]

You mean Kaylock might be Ernest Deming? What gives you that idea?

[Mr. Holly]

From the storekeeper's description, he's about the right age and speaks English better than any of the others. His mother attended a missionary school, too.

[Narrator]

That's true. I recall the storekeeper seeing all that.

[Mr. Holly]

What Lucy said adds to my convictions. Klock's Eskimo mothers told him he was different, that she loved him as a son, but was afraid he'd never be happy with Eskimos.

[Narrator]

He could be Ernest. Dimming at that.

[Mr. Holly]

Yes. And from the information we've received, one of the men who hired Kaylock as a guide must be Jeffers Hooker.

[Narrator]

Great heavens. If that's true, then. Then Hooker is being guided by the.

[Mr. Holly]

Very man he came here to find and perhaps murder. With the scent from this glove, King will be able to pick up Kellog's Tail here, King.

[Narrator]

Here, boy.

[Mr. Holly]

Get the scent, fella. Find him. If Kaylock is Ernest Deming, and if Hooker finds it out, Kaylock may be murdered Alive and King1.

[Sergeant Preston]

Meanwhile, Kaylock first guided the men who had hired him to his own village. There, Hooker and Kane set out a suitcase full of trinkets. And under the guise of training, they noted each of the young male Eskimos who gathered around them.

[Mr. Holly]

None of them look white to me, Jeff.

[Narrator]

Yes, yes, I know. But I have another plan. Oh, perhaps some of you have books. White man's books to trade. If so, bring them to us. You, Kayla, you have black book with gold on front. White missionary. Give it to Kuna, your mother. I keep book, not give it in trade. Kuna left book to me. It have lock of gold. But Kuna tell me to keep good book and not open it ever. Oh, come now, K. Lock, be a good fellow. Let us see the book you have. You. You needn't trade it if you don't wish to. All right. I go bring book. But I not trade.

[Sergeant Preston]

A few minutes later, Kaylock returned to the group carrying a leather bound, gold lettered Bible. Closed and locked by a gold class.

[Narrator]

Here, good book I keep. Have small key on string to open lock a white man's Bible. Oh, bring the other suitcase from the sled, K. Perhaps there's nothing there you'd want for this. I go get suitcase, but I not trade for Kane. Get the others interested in the trinkets going behind the hot. And open his clasp.

[Mr. Holly]

All right.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hey, look at these fine triggers. Quickly, Hooker slipped around the hut. Using the small key, he unlocked the clasp.

[Narrator]

Righty. And fly. Leroy Deming, born to Leroy and Edith Deming. His son, Ernest, January 9, 1880. By Jove, that fellow Kaylock, he must be honest.

[Sergeant Preston]

Quickly, Hooker tore the two pages in the front of the book, rolled them into tight wads and dropped them into the snow. Then he snapped the clasp back in place, returned to the group just as Kaylock approached with the other suitcase.

[Narrator]

Kalloc, I've changed my mind. We've done enough trading here. Better start for the next village. But it nears sundown, Mr. Hooker. It best to wait until morning. You. You said you knew the country. Of course. I put away my book now. Oh, you. You shouldn't leave that around your hut, Kaylock. You should take it with you. Someone might steal it. Eskimo do not steal. But you, you may not get back for some time. I take it with us. I go pack cases on sled. Now.

[Mr. Holly]

What'd you find out Kaylock.

[Narrator]

He's the one.

[Sergeant Preston]

Holy mackerel.

[Narrator]

Quiet. Dig it here for the next village. Then on the way we'll get rid of him. Come along. Sleddy's packed and ready to go.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston and Mr. Holly had left Forty Mile a few hours after Keila and the others. But they traveled fast and made good time. They arrived at the Eskimo village just a short time after the two men had left with Kaylock. They questioned the Eskimos about the recent visitors.

[Mr. Holly]

What did they do while they were here?

[Narrator]

They show trinket try make trade.

[Mr. Holly]

They must not have stayed long.

[Narrator]

No. Kalloc show him black book. But go lack fellow with beard want trade. Kalloc say no. Im send Kallak for more trinket to sled me. See fellow with beard go back of hut with book. And him come out him and hurry get away. Then pack up. Give Taylor black book back. Leave what you make of it, Sergeant.

[Mr. Holly]

Wait. I'll go look behind the hut. Come on. Here's where he stood in the snow. What's that, King? Oh, just scraps of paper.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston unwanted the two pages from Kellogg's Bible. Then he quickly rejoined Mr. Holland.

[Narrator]

You seem excited, Sergeant.

[Mr. Holly]

Yes. Look here. These were torn from that Bible.

[Narrator]

Great heavens. And Kaylock is Ernest?

[Mr. Holly]

Yes, and the men with whom he's traveling know it. We must reach them before they kill the boy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Once more, King picked up the trail. The Mountie and Mr. Holly started in pursuit of Kaylock and the other two men. The glow of the setting sun was still on the horizon when Jeffers Hooker and his friend Kane turned off the trail behind a low ridge and stopped.

[Mr. Holly]

Ho there. Hoo there.

[Narrator]

Ho, ho, ho. Why do we stop behind Ridge, Mr. Hooker? I shall tell you in a minute, Kayla. Oh, by the way, do you carry a gun? No, I have rifle on my sled. Why do you reach? Be quick about it. I don't understand. Why do you point gun at me? He like you'll never know why we had to shoot you. But I shall tell you this much. You stand in my way, I have done nothing to you. No time for further talk. Walk to the edge over there.

[Mr. Holly]

Go ahead.

[Sergeant Preston]

Walk like he said. Slowly, Kaylock walked to the edge of a cliff. He stood without any show of fear, waiting for the shot he thought must follow.

[Narrator]

All right, Kane, shoot.

[Mr. Holly]

Sure. He'll drop into the snow bank below the cliff.

[Narrator]

He'll be missing for good. Damn he. Here it goes. Hold it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, my arm.

[Narrator]

Kane, it's a mountain on the Top of the ridge. I'll get him.

[Sergeant Preston]

The shot that caused Jeff to fall with a wound in the leg, but he still held his gun. Before he could raise it to shoot again, King leaped at him with a savage growl.

[Mr. Holly]

Hooker, as we came around a bend in the trail, I saw you turn off and go behind this ridge. I figured you might be up to something and ran ahead.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good shooting, Sergeant. I. I thought the boy was a.

[Narrator]

Goner for a moment. Sergeant, you saved my life. I am grateful, Ernest.

[Sergeant Preston]

Is your lordship all right?

[Narrator]

I do not understand such strange talk.

[Mr. Holly]

We'll explain on the way to 40 miles. I arrest you two men in the name of the Crown for attempted murder. They'll bandage their wounds, then take them to jail.

[Sergeant Preston]

The following day, Sergeant Preston, with Mr. Holley and Kaylock, went to banker Pitman's house. When they were certain he was home with his daughter Lucy, Lucy herself opened the door.

[Lucy Pittman]

Sergeant Preston, did you find Kaylock and was. Oh, Kaylock. Oh, I'm so glad to see you again. Do come in.

[Narrator]

Well, Sergeant Preston. Eskimo. What's the meaning of this? Why have you brought him here?

[Mr. Holly]

I understand he's calling on your daughter, Mr. Pittman.

[Narrator]

What? Does he dare.

[Mr. Holly]

Hold on, Mr. Pittman. First, let me introduce Mr. Holly of London, England.

[Narrator]

How do you do? How do you do? Now, Sergeant, tell me, what's the meaning? Pardon, Mr. Pittman, but I'm sure you haven't met Lord Deming, Earl of Richland. Of course I haven't, but what the deuce are you talking about? I'm introducing this young man, sir. I AM Most happy, Mr. Pittman. Wait a minute. What is this?

[Sergeant Preston]

A joke?

[Narrator]

Is a joke.

[Mr. Holly]

No, it's no joke, Mr. Pittman. Footman Caylock is really Lord Ernest Dunning, Earl of Richland. His father was a mercenary, but Ernest was brought up as an Eskimo. I've just been able to prove his identity and tell him of his good fortune.

[Narrator]

Great jumping catfish.

[Lucy Pittman]

Oh, Kaylock.

[Narrator]

Now, you must call me Ernest. Lucy, I hope to take you to England if you'll.

[Lucy Pittman]

Oh, of course, Ernest.

[Narrator]

You mean Lucy'll be the wife of an earl? Holy smoke. And I thought he wasn't good enough.

[Mr. Holly]

Lucy loved him when he was just an Eskimo. I think they'll get along all right.

[Narrator]

That is right, Sergeant. We will be very happy.

[Mr. Holly]

We're happy for you, Ernest, and very glad to say this case is closed.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure.

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[Sergeant Preston]

Three seconds, fellas and girls, name the breakfast cereal the whole family likes to eat. Wait now, we didn't say the one the dad alone likes or you or mom, but the whole family. Why, sure, in three seconds you can give the answer. Delicious Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. As mom knows, some of your family like their cereal not so sweet. Some like it ever so sweet. And that's the beauty of Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat. Your family gets the sun ripened natural flavor that old Mother N puts into the good natural grain. No factory sweetening is added so each one in your family can sweeten it with sugar just the way he likes it. So be sure mom gets the big red and blue Quaker packages with a sealed inner lining that keeps delicious Quaker Puffed wheat and rice as crisp as can be. And say fellas and girls, something big is coming your way. Something new, something different. Right out of the Great Northwest. Something you'll want for your very own. Be first to hear full details of a terrific offer on this program real soon. Be sure to be listening. And now, here is Sergeant Preston reporting for duty.

[Mr. Holly]

Inspector.

[Narrator]

Sergeant, as you know, Matt Johnson was found dead on the trail between here and Crystal Creek.

[Mr. Holly]

Yes, sir. He was caught in an avalanche.

[Narrator]

I believe he was caught in an avalanche. True. The coroner's report indicates that Matt must have been dead when the avalanche hit him. I'm assigning the case to you, Sergeant. Instead of an accidental death, it seems to be a case of murder.

[Sergeant Preston]

The man who planned Matt Johnson's death was so certain his guilt would never be discovered that he plotted another murder. And the motive for this one was a long smoldering hatred for a member of the Northwest Mounted Police. A hatred for Sergeant Preston and the ideals for which he stood. Don't miss this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Muir Incorporated, directed by Fred Flowerday and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at this same time by Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. The breakfast cereals shot from gun.

[Narrator]

Hello folks, this is your friend Aunt Jemima.

[Sergeant Preston]

Most of you know my Aunt Jemima.

[Narrator]

Pancake Mix makes the lightest pancakes ever.

[Sergeant Preston]

But did you know it makes wonderful waffles too? Yes, for crisp golden feather light waffles.

[Narrator]

Just follow the easy waffle directions on.

[Sergeant Preston]

The back of my Angel Mama Pancake.

[Narrator]

Mix pack package and quick as a.

[Sergeant Preston]

Flesh you'll bake waffles folks. Rave over like my song says, what do most folks love to eat? Waffles.

[Narrator]

Waffles.

[Sergeant Preston]

What kind are the biggest treats? Aunt Jemimas are Aunt Jemima Waffles golden, tender, light, easy to fix with my pancake mix. Have some this very night.

[Narrator]

Thank you folks.

[Sergeant Preston]

This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Popped Wheat and Quaker Pop Rice.

[Narrator]

So long.

[Sergeant Preston]

Listen tomorrow at the same time to the Green Hornet brought to you by the drink that makes you feel fresh again, delicious Orange Crush. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

Sam.