The Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain | Hopalong Cassidy (01-08-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns: "The Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain" – Hopalong Cassidy

Original Air Date: January 8, 1950
Podcast Release Date: April 10, 2026
Host: Andrew Rhynes

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Episode Overview

In this immersive restoration of a Hopalong Cassidy classic, Hoppy and his loyal sidekick California ride into the remote outpost of Eagle Nest, where reward posters and rumor hint at trouble beneath the town's sleepy surface. The pair become entangled in the mysterious affairs of a so-called "rainmaker," a secretive scientific experiment atop Eagle Nest Mountain, and a swirl of danger involving strange shootings, fake wanted men, and a town caught between hope and deception. At the heart of the episode lies a blend of western lawlessness, small-town eccentricity, and a suspenseful plot of crime, family worry, and scientific ambition.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Hopalong and California Arrive in Eagle Nest (01:22–05:46)

• Hoppy expresses his desire to settle down in Eagle Nest, surprising California, who’s used to his partner’s adventurous ways.
  • California: “I always figured you’d die with your boots on, not out in the desert swattin’ flies.” (02:25)
• Reward posters abound—$50, $100, $500—targeting leading townsfolk, which puzzles and tempts California.
• Unexpected gunshots ring out, aimed at a young woman, causing the partners to wonder about the lawlessness in Eagle Nest.
• They decide to visit Eagle Nest’s “sheriff,” spurred by questions about the reward signs and the precarious law and order situation.

2. The Town’s Secrets: Rewards, Rainmaking, and Wetzel (05:46–14:06)

• Inside the eatery (Bud Bloom’s place), Hoppy and California meet the men featured on the reward posters, realizing the supposed criminals are upstanding citizens.
• California’s attempt at playing bounty hunter for reward money backfires—revealing the posters are merely local eccentricities, linked to honorary sheriff and rainmaker Mr. Billington.
  • Wetzel (Billington’s assistant): “We have no need of any real law around here… the citizens just elected Mr. Billington honorary sheriff in view of his great efforts to bring rain to the desert.” (10:10)
• Wetzel emerges as a suspicious character, overly eager to dismiss concerns and waving away the shooting at the girl as “usual.”
• Dynamite kegs for the rainmaking experiment gather on the porch; Wetzel warns Hoppy off, cementing the air of conspiracy.

3. Martha’s Despair & The Reality Behind the Experiment (14:06–17:53)

• Hoppy speaks privately with Martha Billington (the rainmaker’s daughter).
• Martha voices fears for her increasingly isolated and secretive father, manipulated by Wetzel and his “students.”
  • Martha: “Sometimes I get so desperate I try to get up to see him.” (14:23)
• Shooting at Martha is part of the plot to keep her away; she wonders if even her father is complicit but refuses to believe it.
• The so-called “dynamite” proves to be harmless white gunpowder—"just as sweet as sugar," signaling a bigger falsehood behind the experiment.
  • Hoppy: “Sugar won’t explode. This sugar will.” (20:49)

4. Scaling the Mountain: Suspense & Confrontation (18:22–25:32)

• Hoppy and California stealthily climb Eagle Nest Mountain to uncover the truth.
• Tension increases as Wetzel and his men prepare to set off the machinery, which is rigged with real explosives.
• Martha is ambushed and imprisoned, confirming Wetzel’s criminal motives.
• The plot is revealed: the rainmaking is a front for an illegal liquor trafficking ring, with the “reward posters” serving as coded signals.
• A suspenseful firefight erupts, with Hoppy improvising against Wetzel’s gang.
• Memorable moment: California’s dark humor about risking it for rain: “If it ever brings one drop of rain to this here desert, I’ll eat the boots off o’ my feet, spurs and all!” (18:58)

5. The Climax: Truth Unveiled & Rain Falls (25:32–29:18)

• Hoppy rescues Martha and Mr. Billington while U.S. Deputy Marshal Slim Davies (in disguise) reveals he’s been working with Hoppy all along.
  • Slim Davies: “We came here to stop illegal liquor traffic. As I suspected, those reward posters were coded signals to the runners.” (26:25)
• Mr. Billington, having been duped but still hopeful, launches his “rainmaking” device, and, perhaps by coincidence, it begins to rain.
  • Billington: “Can’t you hear what these men are saying? It’s starting to rain. I’ve done it—my machine works!” (28:41)
• The episode ends on an ironic note, with California and Hoppy debating whether it’s the rain machine or coincidental clouds:
  • California: “Then it ain’t necessarily the rain machine that started it.”
  • Hoppy: “No. But on the other hand, could be.” (29:17)
• Peace is restored, the criminals apprehended, and the mystery behind Eagle Nest’s strange happenings comes to an end.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• California, skeptical of retirement:
  “Bears what do that, not humans.” (02:47)
• On the local law:
  Wetzel: “Just smile at them [the reward posters].” (09:58)
• Hoppy confronts Wetzel:
  “I warn you, Cassidy, if you persist in nosing around Eagle Nest Mountain, they’ll take you out of here in a box.” (12:04)
• Scientific ambition versus mischief:
  Billington: “Tonight I will see success. My esteemed colleague has just informed me that everything is in readiness.” (26:44)
• Rain falls:
  Martha: “Why, it's starting to rain, Father.”
  Billington: “I can make it rain. Do you hear me? I can make it rain.” (28:31–28:40)

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Key Timestamps

• 01:22: Hoppy and California ride into Eagle Nest – the strange reward posters
• 05:46: Meeting the “wanted” men—turn out to be pillars of the town
• 10:10: Wetzel’s explanation of Eagle Nest’s honorary sheriff and the “law”
• 14:06: Conversation with Martha, revelation of her father’s strange behavior and Wetzel’s control
• 16:15: Discovery that the “dynamite” is actually sugar
• 18:58: California jokes about eating his boots if the rainmaker works
• 19:55: Wetzel and the gang’s plan—capture Martha, set the real explosive
• 25:32: Deputy Marshal Slim Davies reveals his true identity
• 28:31: The rain begins to fall – Billington’s triumph and the episode’s irony
• 29:06: Hoppy and California’s exit, debating whether science or nature made it rain

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Tone and Style

The episode blends Hopalong Cassidy’s trademark warmth, dry humor, and gentle skepticism with suspense, a touch of scientific wonder, and classic Western action. The language is rich in colloquial twang and camaraderie, exemplifying the golden age of radio storytelling.

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This summary captures the heart of "The Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain," providing listeners—old and new—with the episode’s key twists, character moments, and enduring charm.

Transcript

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[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

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[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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 date is January 8, 1950 and in this episode, Hoppy wants to settle down in Eagle Nest after shooting. Hoppy has some words for the sheriff. Title of this episode is the Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain. Hope you enjoy. And again, thanks for listening.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

It's Hopalong Cassidy. Action and suspense. Out of the Old west comes the most famous hero of them all, Hop Along Cassidy. Starring William Boyd. The jingle of the Silver spurs heralds that fabulous figure of the early West. Hop Along Cassidy. The same Hoppy you cheer in motion pictures with the same California you've laughed at a hundred times in your local theater. These famous partners come riding into radio just as you've asked for them. William Boyd as Hopalong Cassidy and Andy Clyde as California. Now here they are in the exciting story, the Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain. Poppy, I never figured it would happen like this. You thinking a dessert in the bar? 20 to settle down. The spot like Eagle Nest sure surprises me. California. I always said I'd find a quiet place and kind of retire, didn't I? I got a hunch. Eagle Nest of this? I bet it don't even show on the map. Of all the local ideas I ever heard. This is it. Hoppy, maybe you ain't the man I thought you were. No, maybe not. I always figured you'd die with your boots on, not out in the desert swatting fly. A man needs some peace, quiet once in a while. You know, a chance to sort of hibernate. It's bears what do that, not humans. Oh, look at this. A reward poster. Maybe Eagle Nest ain't so dead to thought. Let's sit down as reward for Lou Jackson, the sheriff at Eagle Nest. Cheap skate. Sheriff. If I was that Lou Jackson, I just lumping me off at a price like that. Hey, what do you say, Hobby? Won't hurt to pick up a quick 50, huh? No California. I just want to settle down, but well. Hey, Hoppy, look over there on that bush. Another one of them reward posters. $100 for the capture of Bud Bloom. I'm not interested. But you sure can throw money away. Look at two more notices painted in them rocks. Must be plenty of trouble around here. There's 500 award for Griff. I told you I'm not interested. But gosh, Hoppy, that ain't all power. Who's a shooting at us? We ain't done nothing. Come from over toward that mountain. Maybe it's somebody shooting at a rabbit. I may have a funny pair of ears, but I ain't no rabbit. Hoppy, it's just natural for a man like you to want to clean out these parts. Well, either somebody aim is awful bad or we aren't the targets. Listen, I judge that must be the target coming up the trail. Now, come on, let's get out of sight. There. There he goes. There he goes. Now, are your eyes really that bad, huh? That's no he. It's a she. And a very young she. Well durned me down. Why dag nab them dirty California taking pot shots at a gal. Let's see if this will tone them down a bit. Ah, she's out of range now, so you can relax. What do you say we get out of range then? We ain't get much cover here. You know I don't like that shooting at a woman. Maybe we had better have a little talk with this advertising sheriff in Eagle Nest. Now you're talking like the old hobby. And I can use some of that reward money for a new parable. Well, come on then,

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Sam.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Now back to Hopalong Cassidy and the story of the rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain. Poppy and California have written into Eagle Nest and find there's not much of a town to welcome them. The Eagle Nest sure looks like a good place to feel, don't you, men? Here's an eating house. Bud Bloom's place. How about a cup of coffee? Did you say Bud Bloom? That's what it says over the door. Hoppy. Hoppy, that's the lung. That was worth a hundred dollars. Remember, here's our first reward money. Let's have a look. Howdy. Hello, Mr. Bloom? That's right. What can I do for you? Tell him to throw his hands up for a coffee. Shh. Not so fast. Been in this town long, Mr. Bloom? Almost ten years. Get him happy quick. Ever hear of Blue Jackson? Why, sure. He owns that barber shop over there. You get him up and I'll go after the hair clipper. Don't be so fast. California. There's something funny about all this, Mr. Bloom. Did you ever hear of a fellow named Griff Jessup? Of course. He runs the Buckhorn Bar across the street. Why is that so? It's just gonna be handy dandy in a more than five minutes. It'll bring us about. Let me see about California. These are all prominent men in this town. I ain't interested in the social standing. It's the price they'll bring. I've got a hunch. You wait here. I'll be back in a few minutes. And don't do anything but hobby. Now, wait a minute. Gosh darn it. Spoiling my easy money. Hey, you, Bloom? Yeah. Cup of java. You're coming right up. Well, hello, bud. Well, howdy, Griff. What'll it be? Oh, spaghetti, I guess. Did he call you Griff? Why, sure. Griff. J. That's right. That settles it. A man can just stand so much temptation. Get your Mitch in the air, you two. What do you mean by that? Get him out quick, I said. Well, now, if it's money, it's money all right. Reward money. I seen your ugly mugs tacked up to a tree just out of town. Oh, those posters. Why, you leather headed fool. Don't pay no attention to them. That's all a gag. I'm laughing all right. Mostly at the thought of that 600 bucks. You'll be sorry for this, Biggie. It's moving, Patty. Towards the sheriff's house, huh? This is the easiest money I ever made. Well, let's get to walking and get this over with. Walk? Who said anything about us walking? You do the walking. Ah, get going. I'm getting on my horse and I'm gonna drive you up there just like a bunch of dogies. Oh, boy, if the folks back there in town could only see me now. Oh, get a long little dogie. Get a long little dogie. Stop jumping around like that. I've seen wild horses. Better behave, I tell you. We ain't gonna forget this. No, me neither. Got a classic pair of books to remember it by. Yes. Howdy, Sheriff. I'm California Carson. I got a dangerous bunch of outlaws here. Which you offer As a reward for what? I tell this man to turn us loose. Mr. Wetzel, I'd like a chance to sell, ain't I? Can't you two down enough yet or will I slog them good? Sheriff, Untie those men immediately. And stop calling me sheriff. My name is Wetzel. Let those persons fly the coup. I'm hanging on to them until I see the sheriff. Then if you ain't. Now this is ridiculous. And you're liable to have a long wait for the sheriff. He hasn't been home here in two months. What kind of screwy. The sheriff has been working so consistently and constantly with his rain making machine that he's grown quite eccentric. He can grow whatever he wants as long as he gives me the reward. Oh, I have argued with you long enough, lout. Loud. This gun in my hand says you'd better turn your prisoners loose immediately. It's about time. Well, if this ain't that bad. What the man says. California happy? I told you to leave it alone in the first place. But then, reward. I've explained to your stupid friend three times that it's all a mistake. You see, we have no need of any real law around here. And the citizens just elected Mr. Billington honorary sheriff in view of his great efforts to bring rain to the desert. And he ain't even a real sheriff. Oh, of course not. He posts those reward signs constantly. And all the people with intelligence know enough to just smile at them. I ought to take my 600 bucks out of your hide. Turn the men loose, California. Our apologies, gentlemen. My friend here was taken in, as you can understand. Sure, sure. But just keep this bum out of my place. I'll put ant poison in his next cup of jabber. Incidentally, my name is Cassidy. And I'm Wetzel. I came here to work with Mr. Billington on his scientific experiment. I just rode down for supplies. And now if you'll excuse me. Rode down? Yes, the rain making machine is on the top of Eagle Nest Mountain. Rain in the desert Is. Is that the one with the sharp peak that we pass on the way into town? Yes. And you mustn't think anything about the shooting you heard. The old man always tries to frighten people away when they come too close. Well, that's interesting, but I don't believe I mentioned the incident. Did you tell Mr. Wetzel about the shots we heard? California, I ain't had a chance to tell him nothing. He's too busy doing me out my reward money. I. Well, it's just as he usually.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

What's the trouble?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Oh, there's no trouble. Get on with your cooking. How do you do, miss? I'm Hopalong Cassidy.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Well, hello, Mr. Cassidy. This is a pleasure. I'm Martha Billington.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Coffee? This is the gal. We must be the rainmaker's daughter.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Yes. My father's working so hard on that experiment.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Must be cozy up there trying to make it drizzle and shooting at people. Evening join. Don't let us disturb you, Miss. You go right on with your cooking. But don't work too hard. You already look wind blown and dusty. Gentlemen, if I may suggest it, you had best be on your way. You've caused enough stupid trouble already, nosing into everything. We've apologized for the trouble, Mr. Wetzel, but we can't help being interested in this great experiment of Mr. Billington. He certainly requires a lot of supplies, doesn't he? If you're referring to these kegs on the porch, they contain dynamite for the experiment. So you'd better not be around here lighting any matches unless you want to be blown out of town. Oh, I don't smoke. But you'd better be careful. Smoking that piper sticking out of your pocket might blow your head off and make some people awfully happy. I warn you, Cassidy, if you persist in nosing around Eagle Nest Mountain, they'll take you out of here in a box. But I like it around here. Think I might start a little ranch once it's cemented for rain.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

I wish you would, Mr. Cassidy.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Opie, do you want me to stake the horses out or cook up some grub? Oh, while you do the chores, I'm going to flip back to the sheriff's house and try to get word to Ms. Martha. You know I don't like that setup. Can't blame you. That Wetzel ain't exactly friendly in that poor gal with her father shooting her off the mountain. I wouldn't judge him from Wetzel story. This adds up to trouble. California, but I don't know quite what kind. I was afraid you might be settling down. Well, it's. I know the little man and he had a little horse and. Hey, what'll it be tonight, Hoppy? Pork and beans or beans and pork? Let's have both. And be sure to put a little water in my coffee. I like coffee you can pour. Insinuate. And I ain't a good cook. You just can't tell a cup of dami Tessie from a cup of plain coffee. I'll be back the time it's ready. If I don't get Blown back? Yeah. Hoppy, better take off your spurs. They can hear you. Mile, I never take off my spurs unless I'm going to take off my boots. And I'm not going to take off my boots. All right, go ahead and be honorary then. But be careful. Harpy.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Who is it?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Father, it's me, Cassidy.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Oh, hello, Mr. Cassidy. I'm so glad you came back. I wanted to talk with you.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

That's what I figured. But don't tell me your father has to sneak around his own house.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

I don't know. He might. It hasn't been the same since Mr. Westall came here and offered to help him. Why now? My father stays up on that mountain day and night. Sometimes I get so desperate I try to get up to see him.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

And when you do, some mysterious shots are fired at you. I did?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

How did you know?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

My friend and I were riding into town and saw that little foray this afternoon.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Oh, Mr. Cassidy, they tried to tell me it's my father shooting at me. I just can't believe it.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Don't believe it when it's Wetzel.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Telling you I won't stop until I get up to see you. Next time I'll try it at night.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

That might be pretty dangerous.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

My father's always been a little preoccupied. And all the years of work he's put in on that rain machine have taxed him. But Martin always seems to be doing such terrible things.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Like what, miss?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Those reward posters. Those men are his friend. And now every week or so there are more of them tacked up on the trail into town.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Have you ever seen him tack them up?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

No, I. I guess he does it at night. And all the men make such light of it, they won't even take them down after he's coasted them.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

What man?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Oh, Mr. Wessel's assistant.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

How many are there?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Three, I think. He says they're metallurgical students. Everything is kept so secret.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Now, Miss Martha, these kegs of dynamite here on the port.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Oh, my father's always is his experiment. But never so much as this before.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Well, there's nearly a wagon load sack here now.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

They must be getting ready to do something terrible. I'm so afraid my father will get hurt.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Do you mind if I open one of these things?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Of course not. Please be careful. I'm never going to use this stuff.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

It's all right. I've handled it before. Well, look at this. White gunpowder.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

I didn't know that.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

It tastes good, too. Just a sweet of sugar. I wouldn't worry about any Explosion with this stuff.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

But what's it all about?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

I have a hunch, Miss Martha. And if I'm right, California and I are going to have one sweet time tonight. Before we continue with the exciting story of the Rainmaker of Eagle Nest Mountain. Here is a word from your announcer.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Rap along.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

And California are making their way up Eagle Nest Mountain to pay a visit to the Rainmaker. But as California's mutterings clearly indicate, he'd rather get into trouble at a more convenient time. I don't know why these d emergencies can't wait till we've had our chow. Main sides were so empty even them beans smell good. Did you tie the horses up good? Topic's pretty frisky tonight. Sure, sure, but right now I'm wishing I hadn't. If a man was supposed to walk, he would have been born with four legs. Ah, this exercise will do you good. Ain't there an easier way to get up this mountain? I was afraid the main fell will be watched too closely. This is the path the jackrabbits have beaten. Well, I'm all for giving it back to him. Hey, blah, Hoppy, look. See that there thing up on top? Yeah. That must be the rain making machine. Oh nation, did you ever see a crazier looking contraption? Boy, the way that big lever's swinging back and forth. A lot of work has gone into that mechanism, California. They say one generation laughs at what the next generation invent. Well, I think this is good for a big long laugh. If it ever brings one drop of rain to this here desert, I'll set right down and eat the boots off and my feet, spurs and all. Well, we haven't much farther to go. We better be quiet from here on and stay close to the ground. There appears to be quite enough to did be around it. From behind the tower. Take a look.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

There's somebody coming up this front trail. That must be what we heard. Yeah, well I can draw a beat on them as they come over this rise. Hey, look. Look through here. Listen to the woman. Uhhuh. Must be the old man's daughter. Well, don't make no difference though. Wetzel says to shoot. He said to shoot to scare her. He ain't never said to kill her. Maybe you're right. Let's wait for her right here. I can handle her. Quiet now. There, I guess that's done. Nicely done. Man. What's. Hold on. Hello, boss. Didn't know you were around. I know you didn't. I was following Mark up the trail. I Just wanted to wait and see how you'd handle the situation. We done all right, huh? Carry her inside the tank, Joe. Ah, sure boss, sure. She don't look this heavy. Slim, we got to work fast tonight. Martha's been talking. You know what that means. Yeah, this has been a good spot. But we've stayed around just about as long as we can. Especially if Cassidy is going to get snoopy. Cassidy? Yeah, rancher from the bar 20. Always going around getting at everybody's business. So this is how we're going to handle it. Slim, you set the dynamite with fresh caps. And see that the old man is locked in the car until we're ready. Then come and help me load the pack horse. Puppy Bobby, you hear that? They've set some of the contraption in motion. Yeah, that wheel is moving. Looks like this one quick action of this whole mountain will blow up. We better separate. We had. You're not afraid, are you? No, I just wanted to be around take care of you. I'll try to manage. Now you go around behind the tower and see if you can find some backstairs that might not be guarded. I'm sure the old man must be up there. Then where'll I find you? I don't think you'll have any trouble in a few minutes. I have a hunch it'll be easy to find where I am. Oh, gosh, I hope that contraption don't go off while we're up here in the mountain. Because then it might start to rain and me with out my overshoot. Well, you can always take off your hat and soak your head like we've been spotted. Keep down. I'd feel a lot better if we stuck together. Just dark enough to show these boys how to play the old Indian game. The way that guy out there. We ain't fighting ordinary people. That's right, we are. That's Cassidy. There he is now. All right. I got a hat behind. That's just his hat. If I know anything about the way Cassidy operates, he's somewhere else. Well, there wer. I'll cut to match this keg of powder. Take another look, Cassidy. Sugar won't explode. This sugar will. I roll this keg over from the powder house. With that unlocked, I didn't have a chance. Would you? You wouldn't cut that off, Cassidy. Not with Martha in the tank. California. Get out. Where are you? You got the girl out of the tank? Oh, please. All right, boys, I'm ready to set a match for this. Wait a minute. Cassidy. Slim, climb out of the window and get onto that big overhanging branch of the tree. And then when he comes out into the open, drop on him. Oakley. I'm coming out, Cassidy. We give up. We know when we're beaten. Keep your hands high and no trick. Good work. Clear there. I bet it's the first time Cassidy's ever been slugged over the head with his own gun. I'll go dump him in the tank with a grow. No, I don't think it better. It'll be easier that way. I put a separate charge under the funnel. When you bring the old man out to set the final charge, that'll go, too. Well, all right, but hurry. That machinery's in motion and the old man's the only one who knows how to stop it. Yeah, and he ain't going to. Not after all these months of wanting to set it off. All right, Joe, snap into it. Tie those things down. Why was that machinery started before we're off this mountain? I. I don't like it. I know the timing. Let's just keep moving. Now, go up to the tower and bring the old man down. Well, I don't know why it has to be done this way. Hey, Slim, is that you? Yeah. You cover Joe while he goes up to the tower. Cassidy, pal. Might still be around here. Where are you going? I'm getting out of here. There's too much powder on this mountain to suit me. Why, you dirty double guy. The rest of you aren't worth saving anyway. You planned it this way. You never meant for us to get away. Now you're getting the idea. What a rat you are, Wetzel. You were never quite quick enough on the draw, were you, Sickle? Drop that gun. Huh? Cassidy, where are you? Put your hands up and be quick. Joe, come and help me.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Sam.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

High up on Eagle Nest Mountain, the Rainmaker's giant machinery ticks closer to that uncertain moment of explosion. You up there on that tower. I got you covered. I give up. Don't shoot. I'll keep a beat on you till you get Mr. Billington safely down that ladder. I'm coming. Don't shoot.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Shoot.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Hobby. Hobby, is that you? Yeah. I told you I'd make enough noise so you could find me. Yeah, but where was you for the last 15 minutes? Taking a nap. See how bad Slim's hurt. Looks like we just winged. Bring him over here and I'll introduce you. What? Well, all right, Hobby. How are you, Slim? Oh, I guess I'm all right, Ms. Cassidy. You had me worried for a few minutes. See what is this? This California is Mr. Slim Davies, US Deputy Marshal, under whom I've been working. You mean you knew all the time about this? We came up here to get in trouble. We came here to stop illegal liquor traffic. As I suspected, those reward posters were toad signals to the runners. Well, doggone fooling me that you was coming up here to settle down the.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Cassidy. You're not hurt? I'm so thankful.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

You'll be more thankful to see someone else. Look who's coming down that ladder. Father. Come on over here, Mr. Billington. And you, Joe, up at your hands. And no trick. I give up, Cassidy.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Father.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Father. Martha. Did you come up to see the climax to all my years of work? Tonight, I will see success. My esteemed colleague has just informed me that everything is in readiness.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

What do you mean?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

The machinery is already in motion, Martha. There's no choice but to go through with it. I must get to the control room quickly. When the giant wheel reaches the top, the great moment will be at hand.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Mr. Cassidy, isn't there great danger?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Not if we get over beyond that bridge.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

But my father in that control room, I don't know.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Through the ages, man has sought a way to make it rain. No one has worked any harder than I have. And in a few seconds, the world will have the greatest gift science can give it. Rain. I'll go in the control room with you, Mr. Billington, if you like. Delighted, my friend.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

There's a lot of dynamite around here. It's such a risk, Mr. Cassidy.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Hurry up. The rest of you, get back right in here, Mr. Cassidy. Now close that door tightly. Well, I. I don't believe I have a match. Here's one with the touch of this match. Civilization will acclaim. That you, California? Yeah, yeah, yeah, that's me. I mean. I mean, this is me. Mr. Billington is here. He's just dazed, I think. I can't tell in the dark. Well, don't light no more matches around here. This whole mountain must be gunpowder. Why, it's starting to rain, Father.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Are you hurt, Bradley?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Rain? Did somebody say rain? My Jiminy, it is starting to sprinkle. I can hear the drops hitting my head.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

You feel all right, Father?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Feel all right? I'm the happiest man in the world. Can't you hear what these men are saying? It's starting to rain. I've done it. I've done it. My machine works. Do you hear me? I can make it rain. Can we help you down the trail, Ms. Billington? Well, I don't think they better try. To walk hockey. Well, maybe not, California. And I'll go ahead and send horses back for you.

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Oh, that'll be fine. Meanwhile, I think Father will enjoy just staying right here and feeling the rain on me.

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Yes. Yes, Martha. What about you, Slim? I'm all right, Mr. Cassidy. Well, you certainly helped us clean up a bad case. Tonight I'll take charge of our prison. It's still raining, isn't it?

[Characters from the Hopalong Cassidy story (e.g., Martha Billington, Mr. Billington, Slim Davies, Wetzel)]

Isn't it?

[Narrator / Hopalong Cassidy]

Yes, Mr. Dillington. It's really raining. Oh, I'm so thankful. So thankful. Well, we better be saying goodbye now. Come on, California, let's get going. Say happy. Yeah. Wasn't there clouds gathering overhead this afternoon? Yes. Then it ain't necessarily the rain machine that started it. No. But on the other hand, could be. Yes. Well, what do you think? I think we better get back to the bar 20 before you decide to make a rain machine. Goodbye for now. From Hop along in California. Here's a special invitation to join them next time. Time they ride out from the par 20, when, as usual, I have a hunch they'll get into plenty of action. That spells trouble. Hopalong Cassidy Starring William Boyd Transcribed in the west under the direction of Walter White Jr. Musical direction Serge Glison. James Matthew speaking. This is a Commodore production.

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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