The Pack-Rat Nest | Challenge of the Yukon (05-13-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode Summary: "The Pack-Rat Nest" | Challenge of the Yukon (May 13, 1952)

Host: Andrew Rynes
Original Air Date: May 13, 1952 | Podcast Release: January 28, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns presents a digitally restored adventure of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, titled "The Pack-Rat Nest." Set during the Yukon Gold Rush, the story follows Sergeant Preston and his legendary sled dog, Yukon King, as they unravel a murder and robbery involving two trappers and a cunning, unexpected clue: a pack rat's nest. A classic radio mystery, it explores themes of justice, suspicion, and the quirks of frontier life, all brought to life with improved audio clarity.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Highlights

1. Trouble Between Partners (05:08–07:11)

• Characters Introduced: Scotty Digby, Andre Barnett (Frenchman he took in), Sergeant Preston, Yukon King.
• Conflict: Resentment brews over the division of profits from trapping. Scotty insists on a two-thirds share, arguing his ownership of the cabin and trapline, while Andre, who did most of the work during Scotty's illness, demands half.
  • Scotty (05:16): “I took you in when you had no place to go… This shack’s mine. So is the trap line.”
  • Andre (05:29): “But what would you have done had I not been here this winter? Who would have taken care of you when you are sick?”

2. Sergeant Preston's Visit and the Pack Rat (06:22–08:55)

• Sergeant Preston arrives for a routine check, finds Andre discontent, and learns of the quarrel over fur profits.
• Discovery of the Pack Rat: When King becomes interested in a rat hole, Andre explains a local pack rat has been stealing small items and hiding them in a nest beneath the cabin.
  • Andre (08:21): “It is a pack rat, Sergeant… One evening I saw the pack rat make off with a button… I found its nest under the porch.”

3. Murder and Suspicion (09:23–16:01)

• Strangers Arrive: Three travelers seek directions and water at the cabin. Among them is Carl Arnhem.
• Scotty Sells the Furs (10:36–11:05): He collects $1,200 at the trading post.
• Carl reveals he owns a rare German Mauser rifle (11:09).
• Murder Occurs: Carl, plotting to rob Scotty, waits at the cabin and fatally shoots him as he returns, then takes the cash (13:20–14:15).
• Andre’s Dilemma: He debates confronting Scotty or leaving altogether, unaware of the murder.

4. Investigation and False Accusation (15:32–21:06)

• Sergeant Preston detains Andre, who becomes the prime suspect due to a public argument and lack of alibi.
  • Sergeant Preston (15:42): “Are you sure you don’t know that Scotty was shot and robbed on the trail near your cabin?”
  • Andre (15:47): “I did not know. Who could have done such a thing?”
• Travelers report overheard threats from Andre the previous night (18:44–19:01).
• Sergeant Preston, however, seeks solid proof before charging Andre.

5. Gathering Evidence and the Rat’s Nest Clue (21:18–28:08)

• Mounties Trace Actions: They check timelines, alibis, and discover Carl Arnhem had the opportunity and a unique weapon.
• Return to the Cabin: At the crime scene, Preston notices an open window and a rifle-rest mark (24:13–24:35). No weapon is found.
• Carl Returns; the Confrontation Unfolds:
  • King investigates the pack rat’s nest again.
  • Sergeant Preston discovers an unusual empty rifle shell within the nest, matching Carl’s Mauser rifle (27:02–27:44):

    “It’s an odd shell. In fact, it matches the empty shell I just found.” (Sergeant Preston, 27:43)

  • Carl is flustered and ultimately confesses by his actions but tries to turn the suspicion back on Andre.

6. The Climax—Clever Dog, Clever Detective (28:25–30:08)

• Preston exposes Carl’s slip: Carl referenced the murder in a way only the killer would know (“…since the old man has been murdered after that threat…”), though Preston hadn’t specified who died.
  • Sergeant Preston (28:25): “If you had gone directly to Beaver Creek, as you claim, you couldn’t have heard of the murder. We didn’t tell you who’d been murdered…”
• Pack Rat as Key Witness: The shell in the nest, stolen by the rat, seals Carl’s guilt.
  • Carl (29:54): “It’s all because of that…”
  • Sergeant Preston (30:08): “Our little friend, the pack rat, helped us out there by taking the shell to its nest.”
• King assists in subduing Carl when he tries to resist arrest. Preston finds Scotty’s wallet on Carl, and Carl is arrested.
  • Sergeant Preston (29:46): “This clears Andre… We arrest you in the name of the Crown for the murder of Scotty Digby.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On partnership and fairness:

  "I took you in when you had no place to go. You've been living in my cabin and eating my food..." (Scotty Digby, 05:08)
  “You'd have starved to death if I hadn't taken you in…” (Scotty, 05:55)
  “But what would you have done had I not been here this winter?” (Andre, 05:29)

• On justice and trust:

  “I'd like to believe you, Andre. I intend to get proof against the killer and I sincerely hope it will not involve you.” (Sergeant Preston, 20:34)

• On the pack rat's unique evidence:

  "Perhaps you haven't heard of the habits of a pack rat. That particular rat often takes objects from inside a cabin and puts them in its nest. Just as it must have done with this empty shell…” (Sergeant Preston, 27:50)

• On Carl’s fatal mistake:

  "You gave yourself away before we found that shell..." (Sergeant Preston, 28:24)

• Resolution:

  "Our little friend, the pack rat, helped us out there by taking the shell to its nest." (Sergeant Preston, 30:08)

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Important Scene Timestamps

• Scotty and Andre argue over fur profits: 05:08–07:11
• Sergeant Preston learns about the pack rat: 08:06–08:55
• Strangers visit; Scotty sells furs: 09:23–11:05
• Carl murders Scotty: 13:20–14:15
• Sergeant Preston arrests Andre: 15:32–16:01
• The investigation and mounting evidence: 21:18–26:47
• Discovery of the shell via the pack rat’s nest: 27:02–28:08
• Preston exposes Carl; King helps subdue him: 28:25–30:08

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Tone & Style

The episode maintains a classic, suspenseful "whodunit" tone, rich with the sounds of the Yukon wilderness and the stark realities of frontier justice. Dialogue is earnest and period-appropriate, with clear moral lines and a sense of methodical police work meeting the unpredictability of the wild.

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Final Thoughts

A deftly restored recording showcases how even in the rough wilds of the nineteenth century, justice may hinge on the smallest unlikely clues—here, the habits of a lowly pack rat. The story blends melodrama, classic Western motifs, and clever detective work, demonstrating why Sergeant Preston of the Yukon remains beloved. The compelling interplay between animal instincts (Yukon King and the pack rat) and human cunning is central to the fun and charm of the episode.

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For more restored classic radio adventures, visit otrwesterns.com.

Transcript

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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. 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.

[Narrator]

The Mutual Broadcasting System presents 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. Unkang on your husky.

[Andre Barnett]

Gold.

[Narrator]

Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches. Back to the days of the Gold Rush with Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon King. As they meet the challenge of the Yukon.

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[Narrator]

Here's a Mutual note for you. When you hear the sound of an eerie laugh, a pistol shot, or the hard pounding of horses hooves echoing through the air, then you know that it's Sunday afternoon on Mutual and time for programs that are everyone's favorites for listening entertainment. The Shadow laughs and evildoers everywhere tremble in fear of his invisible presence. True Detective Mysteries dramatize actual cases of criminal careers brought to an end by the untiring efforts of law enforcement agencies. Stories of outdoor excitement are brought to you on Bobby Benson with the Cowboy Kid and his B Barbie Riders galloping to adventure in the Big Bend country of Texas. And the clever sleuth Nick Carter proves his title of master detective is a deserved one as he unravels a tangled web of deception with polished skill. Remember, Mutual is first for listening on the first day of the week. Listen for the sounds of Sunday and enjoy the Shadow True Detective Mysteries and Nick Carter every Sunday over most of these stations. Scotty Digby had a small cabin just off the trail, about a mile from Selkirk. The old man had lived alone until he had taken in a young Frenchman named Andre Barnett. Andre and Scotty worked the old man's trap lines. As spring approached, the shed behind the cabin was filled with valuable pelts. But instead of being pleased with their good fortune, the skins were a source of trouble. Each time Andre tried to discuss the division of the profits from their work.

[Andre Barnett]

Scotty said, listen, Andre, I took you in when you had no place to go. You've been living in my cabin and eating my food. I have done more than my share of the work. Oh, that's beside the point. This shack's mine. So is the traplane. Always you say the same thing. You tell me. You took me in, gave me a place to live and an opportunity to earn a little money. That's what I did. All right, all right. But what would you have done had I not been here this winter? Who would have taken care of you when you are sick? I live by myself a good many years. I can take care of myself and work the trapline while you were lying in your bunk, too weak to move. I did the work while you were unable to get out. If it hadn't been for me feeding you, you wouldn't have been able to do any work. You'd have starved to death if I hadn't taken you in there. I'm willing to admit you worked hard and you helped me out plenty of. That's why I'm giving you a third of what I get when I sell the first. Do not agree to that arrangement. Whether you agree or not makes no difference to me. Andre. I don't want to talk about it anymore. But I heard what I said. That's my last word.

[Narrator]

Scotty refused to discuss the matter further. Though Andre tried to keep his resentment to himself, the injustice of the situation.

[Sergeant Preston]

Preyed on his mind.

[Narrator]

Several weeks later, Sergeant Preston, accompanied by the great dog Yukon King was riding towards Selkirk on a routine inspection trip. He drew rein at Scotty's cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, Bly. Oh, boy. Come along, King.

[Andre Barnett]

Sergeant Preston and King, it is good to see you. Come in.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Andre. Thought I'd stop by and see how you and old Scotty are getting along.

[Andre Barnett]

It is not a good partnership, Sergeant. Soon I shall go elsewhere and set out a trap line of my own.

[Sergeant Preston]

What's the trouble?

[Andre Barnett]

Sit down, Sergeant, and I shall tell you.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right.

[Andre Barnett]

We have had a good season. The shed behind our cabin is filled with fine skins.

[Sergeant Preston]

Glad to hear it.

[Andre Barnett]

But I am not pleased. Scotty is determined and grumpy. He claims he took me in and gave me my start. I have worked very hard all season. Yet Scotty insists he will take two thirds of what we are paid for their skins. I shall not agree to such an arrangement.

[Sergeant Preston]

Of course, he does own the trap.

[Andre Barnett]

That is true. But he was sick most of the winter. I did most of the work. He is going to town tomorrow to sell the furs. He does not want me to go with him. So I shall not even be sure of what he gets for them.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know you're excitable, Andre. Scotty hasn't been well. Perhaps if you talk to him calmly and point out the facts, he'll agree to make more suitable division of the money.

[Andre Barnett]

I shall talk to him again when he comes in from the trap line. But of one thing I'm assure, Sergeant. I shall get my proper share of the cash. Then I shall break with Scotty for good.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sorry things haven't worked out, King. What's the matter, boy? What's in this corner? Oh, a rat hole.

[Andre Barnett]

King must have got a glimpse of a certain thief we have around here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thief?

[Carl Arnhem]

Oui.

[Andre Barnett]

It is a pack, right, Sergeant? Oh, for sometimes small objects disappeared from the cabin. One evening I saw the pack rat make off with a button. And sometime later I found Its nest under the porch. Come, I'll show you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Keep awaking.

[Andre Barnett]

Look there, just behind that support.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, yes, I see it. A couple of things in the nest right now.

[Andre Barnett]

A small spoon and another metal button. Oh, he is a slick one, that background.

[Sergeant Preston]

He must be under the cabin from the way King's acting. Here's your spoon and button, Andre. I'll go on to town now. I want to get to the constable's office before dark.

[Andre Barnett]

All right, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I hope you and Scotty get matters straightened out.

[Narrator]

Come on, King. That evening, three travelers stopped in front of Andre's cabin. As the three men approached the front door, they heard loud talking coming from within.

[Andre Barnett]

I have tried to talk to you calmly, sir, but you will not be reasonable. I warn you, when you bring back the money tomorrow, that you get for the spurs, and it will be plenty. I shall not take less than half. We'll discuss that when I get back tomorrow. Andre. There's no more to be said right now.

[Carl Arnhem]

We have come upon an argument.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yeah, but it seems to be over. Let's knock.

[Andre Barnett]

See who that is.

[Carl Arnhem]

Good evening.

[Andre Barnett]

What is it you want?

[Carl Arnhem]

We are heading for Selkirk and stop to ask how much further we have to go. Also, if possible, we would like some water.

[Sergeant Preston]

Of course.

[Andre Barnett]

Come in.

[Carl Arnhem]

Thank you. I am Carl Arnim. These are two men I met on the way here. Ben Harvard and Art Topkten.

[Andre Barnett]

I am Andre Barnett. This is my partner, Scotty Digby. Hello. Have you come far?

[Sergeant Preston]

We've come down from Dawson. Yeah, that's right.

[Andre Barnett]

Now that it's getting dark, we wanted to find out how much further we have to go. Selkirk is only a mile from here. I'll get some water for you. Or perhaps you'd all like coffee.

[Carl Arnhem]

No, no, no. No, thank you. We'll just take the water and then we'll go on and get settled for the night.

[Narrator]

The following morning, Carl Arnhem entered the trading post. The usual group of loungers was sitting around discussing the news of the day. Old Scotty Digby was at the counter receiving payment for the load of furs he had brought in to sell.

[Andre Barnett]

Well, there you are, Scotty. $1,200 in cash. Well, thank you, Mike. I have a little business uptown and I'll come back to get the supplies ordered. Good morning to you. See you later, Scotty. There's something for you, mister.

[Carl Arnhem]

I don't suppose you have shells for a rifle of this make?

[Andre Barnett]

Hmm? That's a new one on me, mister. What make is it?

[Carl Arnhem]

It's a German mauser. Rifle. I bought shells for it in Seattle, but I'm getting low.

[Andre Barnett]

Well, to my way of thinking, you aren't going to find any in this territory. I'd say that's the only rifle with type around here.

[Carl Arnhem]

Perhaps you could order some for me from Seattle.

[Andre Barnett]

Well, I'll try. I don't know how long it takes for them to get here. Maybe months.

[Carl Arnhem]

Well, never mind. I may be going to the States soon. I'll wait until I get there. Thanks just the same.

[Andre Barnett]

Don't mention it. Well, hello Andre. You're looking for Scotty? Not exactly. Did you buy our first? Yep. Give Scotty twelve hundred dollars for him. I see. That is what I wanted to know. Well, he'll be back soon to pick up the supplies if you want to wait. No, no, no. I'll not wait. And there is no need to mention I gave me. And I don't want him to think I was checking on him. I may run into him uptown. See you later, Mike. Sherlocks. So long, Andre. No, about that foreign made rifle, mister. If you want to trade it for a new Winchester.

[Carl Arnhem]

No, no, I'll keep it. Thank you.

[Andre Barnett]

Well, come in again.

[Carl Arnhem]

Yes, of course. Good morning.

[Narrator]

When Andre had entered the store, Carl had stepped back so that the Frenchman hadn't noticed or recognized him. Carl left the store and stood watching as Andre rang to his staff up the street in front of the cafe.

[Sergeant Preston]

Uh huh.

[Carl Arnhem]

He is the one who was arguing with a man called Scotty at the cabin last night. If I ride out to their cabin and wait, I can take the cash when they arrive there.

[Andre Barnett]

Easy now.

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[Narrator]

Come on.

[Sergeant Preston]

Carl rode to the cabin and leaving.

[Narrator]

His horse behind the building so that anyone riding up trail wouldn't see it.

[Sergeant Preston]

He walked to the front door.

[Narrator]

Finding it unlocked, entered.

[Carl Arnhem]

Now I'll wait until I see them through the window.

[Narrator]

Carl waited patiently with his rifle held across his knees. Finally he saw old Scotty coming along the trail alone. He got up and partly opened the window which gave a view of the trail. Then deciding he could shoot the old man without being suspected, he knelt and rested the Mauser rifle on the windowsill.

[Carl Arnhem]

We'll soon be close enough so that one shot will do the trick. Yes, it's time right now. One shot did it.

[Andre Barnett]

Now I'll pick up the empty shell and get the cash.

[Carl Arnhem]

Shell? Empty shell Must have fallen through that white crack in the flooring. Well, no matter. Would never be found there. I'll get the cash.

[Narrator]

Quickly Carl ran to where Scotty had fallen. He found the cache and then Ran back mounting his horse, rode up the trail in the direction away from town. Get up. Come on, get up. Andre Barnett had watched Scotty leave town. Then leaving the cafe where he had been sitting near a window, he mounted and rode slowly down to the riverfront.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh ho dear.

[Narrator]

He walked slowly along the docks, then sat down on a packing case and stared at the water. Andre knew his shortcomings. He didn't want to face his partner just yet because he was afraid that, bitter as he was, his temper might give way and cause trouble. He sat for some time thinking. At first he decided not to go back to the cabin at all. To forget his share of the money. Then realizing he need cash to get a fresh start, he reversed his decision. He'd go out, take what Scotty gave.

[Sergeant Preston]

Him and leave for good.

[Narrator]

He walked back, mounted his horse and rode back to the cafe to have coffee before going out to the cabin. As he passed the constable's office, Sergeant Preston hailed him.

[Andre Barnett]

Hello, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I was about to go looking for you, Andre.

[Andre Barnett]

Looking for me? Why?

[Sergeant Preston]

Because of Scotty.

[Andre Barnett]

I don't understand.

[Sergeant Preston]

Are you sure you don't know that Scotty was shot and robbed on the trail near your cabin?

[Andre Barnett]

I did not know. Who could have done such a thing?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's what I'm going to find out. Andre, you'll have to come inside for questioning because of a few things we've learned. Andre, we have reason to suspect that you shot Scotty.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment.

[Carl Arnhem]

Well, the holidays have come and gone once again.

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[Andre Barnett]

What do you have to lose?

[Carl Arnhem]

Give it a [e-mail] Switch limited time.

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[Narrator]

Is National Girls Club Week, May 11 through May 17. Some of you girls listening may already know how much fun you can have in a girls club. There are more than 35,000 girls in 16 states and Canada who do belong. But a lot more of you could join the fun. The club dues are kept so low that any girl can afford it. And you'll get an all year round program of most anything you're interested in. Arts and crafts, homemaking skills and baby care, athletics and free play. You learn to play and to work together. And in the summer, members go to a girls club camp for a vacation that not all of you could afford otherwise. If there's no girls club in your community, try to get your folks and other people interested in organizing one. Tell them it's very important to see that the little girls in their community have a club where they can get wholesome companionship and friendly guidance in out of school hours. If you can get your entire community thinking about the good that comes of a girls club, you will have one in no time. Now to continue. After being told of Scotty's murder, Andre was taken into the constable's office by Sergeant Preston for questioning. As Andre entered, he saw two of the three men who had stopped at his cabin the night before.

[Sergeant Preston]

One of them spoke. That's the fellow sergeant. Just before we knocked at the door last night at his cabin, we heard him warning the old man that he wasn't going to take less than half.

[Narrator]

Of the money Scotty had get for the fur.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right. All three of us heard him. Where is this third man you speak of? He went up to Beaver Creek this morning to see about buying a claim.

[Andre Barnett]

He ought to be back soon.

[Sergeant Preston]

Beaver Creek's about three miles beyond Scotty's King. That's right. But Carl left sometime before Scotty did. We saw Scotty heading from town. We were in the cafe.

[Andre Barnett]

We saw this fellow there too.

[Narrator]

He left right after Scotty did.

[Andre Barnett]

But I didn't go out the trail.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sit down, Andre.

[Andre Barnett]

I didn't shoot Scotty. I didn't even know about it until you told me.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll talk about that in a minute. No use in you two men staying here any longer. Stay around town in case we want to ask any more questions. Sure thing, Sergeant.

[Andre Barnett]

Let's go work. All right.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, let me give you the fact, Sandra. Two hours or so ago, Scotty left town to go to the cabin. He carried twelve hundred dollars according to the storekeeper. And you knew about it?

[Andre Barnett]

Of Course I knew. But I didn't follow him. I never left. Down.

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you think of it, Council?

[Andre Barnett]

Andre, if you never left town, how come you didn't hear about Scotty's death? The men who found him on the trail and brought his body in told the story all over town as soon as they left here.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's the point, Andre. Where were you?

[Andre Barnett]

Well, Sergeant, I saw something briefly.

[Narrator]

Andre told of trying to think things over down by the river. Then he turned to Preston, saying, I.

[Andre Barnett]

Don'T even have a gun, Sergeant. I've seen you carrying a gun, Andre. Sometimes I carried Scotty. Scotty's the only one who could verify that, and he's dead. You could have thrown the gun away after the shooting. I didn't do it. I didn't. Believe me, Sergeant. You must believe me.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'd like to believe you, Andre. I intend to get proof against the killer and I sincerely hope it will not involve you.

[Andre Barnett]

Maybe King could pick up the scent of the killer.

[Carl Arnhem]

Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

King would have nothing to go on, Constable. Andre's scent would be all over the place. Besides the free men who stopped at the cabin and those who found Scotty.

[Andre Barnett]

And so you're going to accuse me of murder?

[Sergeant Preston]

Not until we have proof, Andrew. But in the face of the threat you made and until we can check on your movements during the past two hours, we'll hold you on suspicion.

[Andre Barnett]

But I didn't do it. I swear it.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll do everything possible to prove you didn't, Andre, and to find out who did. We'll keep you in custody. The constable and I will check the alibis of the two men who gave us the information about you.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston and the constable made inquiries around town, then compared notes at the constable's office.

[Andre Barnett]

I asked everyone I met along the docks about Andre Sargent, but no one remembers having seen him down that way.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see. I checked the cafe. Found that the two men who gave us the information about Andre's threat were there during those two hours. As they said.

[Andre Barnett]

It looks bad for him, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I can't accuse him of murder without proof, Constable.

[Carl Arnhem]

Oh.

[Andre Barnett]

What do we do next?

[Sergeant Preston]

First, we'll go to the trading post and ask Mike a few more questions. And we'll go out to the scene of the crime and look around. Come along, King.

[Narrator]

A short time later, the two Maoris entered the trading post.

[Andre Barnett]

Well, Sergeant, I hear you picked up Andre Barnett. Does he admit he killed Scotty? No.

[Sergeant Preston]

Tell me, Mike, how many were in here when you gave Scotty that money?

[Andre Barnett]

Well, now, let me see I'd say about six or seven.

[Sergeant Preston]

Could you tell me their names?

[Andre Barnett]

Well, offhand I couldn't. But I can tell you that all of them stay down here almost up to the time we heard about Scotty.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see. Well, in that case, their names don't matter.

[Andre Barnett]

The only one who was here and left was a stranger with a German rifle. Called it a Mauser. Come in to try to get shells for them.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, that must have been the man named Carl the two other strangers mentioned. When did he leave?

[Andre Barnett]

Right after Scotty went out. But of course, Scotty stayed in town a while. I saw that stranger heading for the north trail. That adds up, Sergeant. His friend said he was riding to Beaver Creek to see about buying a claim. He must have gone out that trail sometime before Scotty did.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, I know.

[Andre Barnett]

He sure had a mighty fine rifle. Did you ever see one of those Mausers, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, but not in this territory. Mike.

[Andre Barnett]

I told him he was probably the only one of its kind up here. And as soon as he runs out of what shells he has, he'll not be able to use it.

[Sergeant Preston]

He still had some shells then?

[Andre Barnett]

Uh huh. That's what he said. But he also said he was getting low on him.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll find out all we can about him when he comes back to town. But meanwhile, Constable, we'll go on out to Scotty's cabin. Let's go.

[Andre Barnett]

Right.

[Narrator]

Sergeant. And the constable, accompanied by King, rode out to the scene of the crime.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, buggy. Oh, boy. Here's about where the body was found.

[Andre Barnett]

Yes, there are plenty of hoof marks and footprints around.

[Sergeant Preston]

The bullet was lodged in Scottish chest. So he must have been shot from up trail as he rode toward the killer.

[Andre Barnett]

This is flat land around here. I'd say the killer would be someone he knew. For him to get so close and not suspect anything.

[Sergeant Preston]

It occurred to me the killer could have hidden behind the cabin or inside it. Let's look around. Come on, Bucky. Come on.

[Carl Arnhem]

Get up, boy.

[Andre Barnett]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Leading their horses, the two Mounties walked to the cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

Look. The window facing the trail is partly open. Both Scotty and Andre had gone to town. No one ever leaves a cabin for any length of time with the door or window open for fear of prowling animals.

[Carl Arnhem]

That's true, Sergeant.

[Andre Barnett]

Huh?

[Sergeant Preston]

Look here, Constable.

[Andre Barnett]

But look at what?

[Sergeant Preston]

See this mark in the dust on the windowsill? Yeah.

[Andre Barnett]

Yes. You think it might.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'd say it's the mark of a rifle where it rested on the sill. From here it'd be easy to Shoot a person who was riding up that trail.

[Andre Barnett]

Maybe you've hit it. We might find the rifle still in the cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll search for it.

[Narrator]

The sergeant and the constable made a thorough search of the cabin for a rifle, but without success. They went outside and searched the shed behind the cabin. And looked in the few scrub bushes.

[Sergeant Preston]

Nearby for the murder weapon.

[Narrator]

Convinced the rifle was not in the vicinity, they started back up the porch when they heard hoofbeats coming down the trail.

[Andre Barnett]

Must be a stranger. I don't know him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Neither do I. Ho. Ho there. Ho, there.

[Carl Arnhem]

I did not expect to see mounted police here.

[Sergeant Preston]

You must be the man named Carl.

[Carl Arnhem]

Yes, that's right. I am. Carl Arnhem at your service, Sergeant. But how did you know my name is Carl?

[Sergeant Preston]

We've talked to your friends in town.

[Carl Arnhem]

Ah, of course. But what is this all about? What's happened?

[Sergeant Preston]

We're Investigating a murder, Mr. Arnhem.

[Carl Arnhem]

A murder?

[Andre Barnett]

Oh, that is bad.

[Carl Arnhem]

Very bad indeed. My friends and I stopped by here last night. The two men were arguing. We couldn't help hearing.

[Sergeant Preston]

We've heard about that.

[Carl Arnhem]

Well, I left town early today to go to Beaver Creek, so I missed the excitement.

[Sergeant Preston]

Who did you see in Beaver Creek?

[Carl Arnhem]

A man named Hank Aiken. He had a claim for sale.

[Andre Barnett]

I know Hank Hagen, Sergeant. That'll be easy to check.

[Carl Arnhem]

Have you caught a murderer, Sergeant? Matthew, I don't think you have very far to look for him.

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you mean?

[Carl Arnhem]

The young Frenchman, of course, Sergeant.

[Andre Barnett]

He must be the one who did the killing.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now, why do you say that?

[Carl Arnhem]

We heard him threaten the old man Scotty last night. It's only natural that since the old man has been murdered after that threat, that man Andre must have done it.

[Andre Barnett]

Now, hold on, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Just a minute, Constable. I'm sure you were about to say we questioned Andre and so far have no proof against him, weren't you?

[Andre Barnett]

Yes. Sure.

[Sergeant Preston]

You must have passed this cabin on your way this morning, Mr. Arnhem. I don't suppose you saw anyone lurking about?

[Carl Arnhem]

No, no. I rode right by without paying any attention.

[Sergeant Preston]

You didn't think of stopping again to see the two men you met last night?

[Carl Arnhem]

Oh, no. I was in a hurry, so I didn't think of stopping.

[Sergeant Preston]

Nice.

[Andre Barnett]

What's king after under the porch?

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll go find out.

[Andre Barnett]

Hey, look. I just saw a rat go under the cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, I saw it too. It has a nest right down here by this support.

[Narrator]

That's a pack rat.

[Sergeant Preston]

We found several small objects in this nest. Yesterday, when I stopped here, I found something what is it, Sergeant? An empty rifle shell.

[Carl Arnhem]

Stranger shells should fall under there and into a rat's nest.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, isn't it? By the way, that's an unusual rifle you have on your saddle, Mr. Arnhem. Foreign make, isn't it?

[Carl Arnhem]

Yes, a Mauser, made in Germany.

[Sergeant Preston]

Can I look at it?

[Carl Arnhem]

Of course.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's a fine rifle. I see there's a cartridge in it. It's an odd shell. In fact, it matches the empty shell I just found.

[Carl Arnhem]

No, that can't be it. It cannot be the same. No shell from my rifle could have been in that rat's nest.

[Sergeant Preston]

Perhaps you haven't heard of the habits of a pack rat. That particular rat often takes objects from inside a cabin and puts them in its nest. Just as it must have done with this empty shell which matches those you use in this Mauser rifle.

[Narrator]

It is not possible.

[Sergeant Preston]

It does, however. And you're the only one who uses this type of shell.

[Narrator]

You kill Scotty Digby, the bait.

[Andre Barnett]

Don't move.

[Sergeant Preston]

Put down that pistol on him.

[Carl Arnhem]

I was too quick for you Mounties. I admit nothing, but I shall not let you accuse me of murder on the strength of finding an empty shell.

[Sergeant Preston]

You gave yourself away before we found that shell.

[Carl Arnhem]

What do you mean?

[Sergeant Preston]

If you had gone directly to Beaver Creek, as you claim, you couldn't have heard of the murder. We didn't tell you who'd been murdered. Yet you said Andre must be the one who did the killing, that it was only natural. He must have done it since he threatened the old man.

[Andre Barnett]

I noticed that slipped, too, and almost mentioned it.

[Sergeant Preston]

That odd shell is just more evidence against you. That's probably the only gun of its kind in the Yukon.

[Carl Arnhem]

You have it all figured out. Well, who will figure things out when they find both of you?

[Andre Barnett]

Cat.

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, we'll take you in for Scotty's murder on him.

[Andre Barnett]

No.

[Carl Arnhem]

I'm going to kill you both.

[Narrator]

King had come out from under the porch and saw a car holding a.

[Sergeant Preston]

Gun on the two Mounties.

[Narrator]

King, true to his training, knew enough not to approach a man holding a gun from in front. The intelligent dog slowly circled around until.

[Sergeant Preston]

He was behind the killer.

[Narrator]

Then Preston called, I'll fix that, doc. As Carl turned, momentarily taking his attention from the Mounties. Hold it, dog. Preston swung the empty rifle he still held in his hands, catching Carl a glancing blow on the head and sending him sprawling.

[Andre Barnett]

The doc.

[Sergeant Preston]

He has my arm. Preston, get that gun.

[Narrator]

I have it dunking.

[Sergeant Preston]

Watch him, boy.

[Narrator]

Now get up, you. Sergeant.

[Carl Arnhem]

Sergeant. It's all a mistake.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, and you made the mistake. Keep him covered, Constable. I'll search him. Here's Scotty's wallet. His initials are on it. This money is the reason you murdered him.

[Andre Barnett]

This clears Andre.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. Arnhem, we arrest you in the name of the Crown for the murder of Scotty Digby.

[Carl Arnhem]

That empty shell.

[Andre Barnett]

It's all because of that.

[Sergeant Preston]

Perhaps it is. You might have talked your way out of the slip you made. But this odd shell clinched the case as far as I'm concerned. You weren't smart enough to pick it up.

[Carl Arnhem]

But it fell between the boards and the floor. I thought it would never be found.

[Sergeant Preston]

Our little friend, the packed rat, helped us out there by taking the shell to its nest. Constable, we'll take this killer to jail and free Andre Barnett. Then this case.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

Back in the old west, folks didn't run to the pharmacy every time trouble hit. They relied on the know how and natural remedies. Kind of like how Tonto always seems to have a special mixture ready for whatever came next. If you want to learn how to do that today, check out the beginner's guide to herbal Remedies. Easy steps for teas, tinctures and salves. Even if you've never tried herbs before, visit otrwesterns.com herbs to learn more again. Otrwesterns.com herbs Here's a mutual note for you.

[Narrator]

Every weekday afternoon at 5 o' clock over Mutual, it's time for the children's hour with programs for all lovers of daring adventure and thrilling exploits. On Mondays, there's Bobby Benson, the famous cowboy kid who gallops to rangeland excitement with his B Barbie riders. Wednesday and Friday, the fearless newspaper publisher Britt Reed dons the secret disguise of the Green Hornet and roars into action to bring evil doers to justice. And every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 5:30, Wild Bill Hickok, the real life marshal of the early west, outwits rustlers and renegades in stories of blazing action. Tuesdays And Thursdays bring Sergeant Preston of the Yukon at 5 o' clock with the stirring adventures of a northwest mountie as he faces incredible hardship and danger to get his man. And sky king follows. At 5:30 tune to Mutual every weekday afternoon at 5:00 clock for programs that take you to a world of imagination all over most of these stations. And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty. Inspector.

[Andre Barnett]

Sergeant. The mining company office in Whitehorse has been robbed by a small gang payroll of $5,000 has been taken.

[Sergeant Preston]

Are there any clues, sir?

[Andre Barnett]

None. They made that getaway in the rain and it seems impossible to trail or find them. I want you to go there and search until you do find them.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll do my best sir.

[Narrator]

The trail of the crooks has been washed away and even Yukon King can't pick it up. But an unusual story told by a boy camper gives Preston a clue that soon brings him face to face with the crooks and death. Be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by 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. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye and good luck Until Thursday. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Andre Barnett]

Sa.

[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.

[Andre Barnett]

Sam.