The Shooting of Wyatt King – The Six Shooter (05-20-54)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary
Title: The Shooting of Wyatt King – The Six Shooter
Host: Andrew Rhines
Original Air Date: May 20, 1954
Release Date: November 23, 2024

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Introduction

In this riveting episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast, host Andrew Rines presents “The Shooting of Wyatt King,” a gripping installment of The Six Shooter series starring James Stewart. Set in the rugged town of Copper Springs, the narrative delves into the mysterious capture of the notorious outlaw Wyatt King and the ensuing turmoil within the community. Through meticulously enhanced audio, listeners are transported to the heart of the Wild West, experiencing every tense moment with unparalleled clarity.

Setting the Stage: Wyatt King’s Capture

The episode opens with townsfolk discussing the unexpected capture of Wyatt King, also known as the Wyoming Kid. Ollie, a local rancher, informs Mack Hawkins about the posse’s arrival:

• Ollie [03:36]: “They're bringing him into town now. The posse came by my ranch about half an hour ago. I took right off so I could spread the word.”

The town is abuzz with speculation about who managed to finally lay a hand on the elusive outlaw. Mack expresses his disbelief:

• Mack Hawkins [03:44]: “Boy, I just can't believe it.”

The Mystery of the Shooter

As conversations unfold, it becomes evident that the circumstances surrounding Wyatt King’s capture are atypical. The sheriff, Hemphill, is unable to provide concrete details, leading to widespread confusion:

• Ollie [04:00]: “The sheriff's bringing him in now. That's true enough, but the way I understand it, the posse just sort of stumbled onto the kid.”

This raises questions about the legitimacy of the capture and the identity of the shooter responsible for Wyatt King’s injuries.

Enter Brett Poncet: The Six Shooter

The plot thickens with the introduction of Brett Poncet, portrayed by James Stewart, who claims no involvement in Wyatt King’s capture. During a conversation with the sheriff, Poncet asserts his innocence:

• Brett Poncet [07:00]: “I didn't shoot Wyatt King last night or any other time. I've never laid eyes on him.”

However, Ollie and Mack remain skeptical, convinced that Poncet, known as the Six Shooter, was indeed the one responsible. Mack confronts Poncet:

• Mack Hawkins [07:03]: “You're the fellow who shot it out with the King last night, ain't you?”

Poncet maintains his stance, leading to further suspicion and tension within the town.

Unraveling the Truth: Jonas Pilgrim’s Confession

As Poncet seeks to clear his name, the true shooter, Jonas Pilgrim, emerges. Poncet interacts with Pilgrim at the local bank, where Pilgrim reluctantly confesses:

• Jonas Pilgrim [20:45]: “I didn't intend to. I just grabbed my gun and let fire. I never should have done it, Mr. Poncet.”

Pilgrim reveals that an unfortunate misunderstanding led him to shoot Wyatt King during a bank hold-up, inadvertently taking the blame upon himself to protect his reputation.

Confrontation and Resolution: The Final Showdown

Determined to uncover the truth, Poncet confronts Wyatt King after the outlaw escapes from jail due to negligence. Their intense showdown is vividly portrayed:

• Wyatt King [25:42]: “Don't reach for your gun.”
• Brett Poncet [26:09]: “There are plenty other horses here. I'm taking yours, Wyatt.”

A fierce physical altercation ensues, highlighting Poncet’s resilience and skill as the Six Shooter. Ultimately, Poncet overcomes King, ensuring the outlaw’s final capture and restoring peace to Copper Springs.

Aftermath: Community’s Perception

The episode concludes with the town’s recognition of Poncet’s heroism. A newspaper headline celebrates Jonas Pilgrim as the man who captured Wyatt King, despite Pilgrim’s earlier attempts to distance himself from the incident:

• Narrator [31:13]: “Modest Pilgrim, that's what the paper called Jonas, tried to deny he'd anything to do with Wyatt's capture. But the folks in Copper Springs just hadn't believed him.”

This resolution underscores themes of honor, reputation, and the complexities of truth in frontier justice.

Conclusion

“The Shooting of Wyatt King” masterfully weaves suspense, character development, and moral dilemmas, embodying the essence of classic Western dramas. Through enhanced digital restoration, listeners experience the rich soundscape—from the creak of saloon doors to the thunder of hooves—bringing the timeless tale to life with remarkable clarity. Andrew Rines’ homage to iconic shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger is evident, offering a captivating journey into the untamed frontier.

Notable Quotes:

• Ollie [03:36]: “They just don't seem to know, Ollie.”
• Brett Poncet [07:00]: “I didn't shoot Wyatt King last night or any other time.”
• Jonas Pilgrim [20:45]: “I never should have done it, Mr. Poncet.”
• Wyatt King [25:42]: “Don't reach for your gun.”

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The Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast continues to celebrate the golden age of radio with episodes like “The Shooting of Wyatt King,” offering both nostalgia and fresh perspectives through expert digital restoration. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the genre, this podcast is a must-listen for anyone captivated by the legends of the Wild West.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be the Six Shooter. Original air date is May 20, 1954 and the title is the Shooting of Wyatt King. Hope you enjoy and again, thanks for listening.

[James Stewart]

In a moment you'll hear James Stewart as the Six Shooter, just one of many fine programs brought to you each week on NBC. Tomorrow night there's Top Comedy Entertainment with the Bob Hope show, the Phil Harris Alice Faye show, and can youn Top this With Senator Ford. Bob Hope delivers rapid fire comedy routines while Phil Harris and Alice Fabe bring both mirth and music. A great Friday night lineup of comedy programs, all of them heard only on NBC.

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[James Stewart]

James Stewart as the Six Shooter the man in the saddle is angular and long legged. His skin is sun dyed brown. The gun in his holster is gray steel and rainbow mother of pearl, its handle unmarked. People call them both the Sick Shooter. The NBC Radio Network presents James Stewart as the Six Shooter, a transcribed series of radio dramas based on the life of Brett Poncett, the Texas plainsman who wandered through the western territories, leaving behind a trail of still remembered legends.

[Mack Hawkins]

And keep your shirt on. Keep your shirt on. Bank don't open till 9am you got five minutes to wait.

[Ollie]

It's Me, Mack Hawkins. I got some news for you, Ollie.

[Mack Hawkins]

News about Wyatt King. What's happened, mate?

[Ollie]

They got him? No, Sheriff Hemphill's bringing him into town now. The posse come by my ranch about half hour ago. I took right off so as I could spread the word.

[Mack Hawkins]

Boy, I just can't believe it.

[Ollie]

That's right. They got him.

[Mack Hawkins]

Squid Hemphill capturing the Wyoming key.

[Ollie]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Mack Hawkins]

Oh, not that Spud ain't been a good sheriff, but. Well, nobody's ever been able to lay a hand on Wyatt King before.

[Ollie]

Well, the sheriff didn't exactly capture him, Ollie.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, I thought you said.

[Ollie]

Well, the sheriff's bringing him in now. That's true enough, but the way I understand it, the posse just sort of stumbled onto the kid.

[Brett Poncet]

What?

[Ollie]

Yeah, that's what they say. He was laying in a grove of sycamores over by Tenderfoot Crick.

[Mack Hawkins]

Dead, huh?

[Ollie]

No, no, no. But he'd been shot up some. A bullet in his belly. Must have been hit at close range. He was still out cold when they went past my place.

[Mack Hawkins]

Say, who shot him and left him laying there?

[Ollie]

They just don't seem to know, Ollie.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, he was in mighty good health when he rode out of here Yesterday, cutting off $2,500 from my bank vault here.

[Ollie]

And your money was still on him. No need for you to worry about it.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Good morning, Macron. I'm sorry I'm late. Matilda had one of her dizzy spells this morning and I had to wait and till Doc McIntyre got there.

[Ollie]

Jonas, you hear about Wyat King?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Wyatt King?

[Mack Hawkins]

The fellow who held me up yesterday.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Oh, why, I thought they called him something else. Some kind of kid.

[Mack Hawkins]

That's right. The Wyoming Kid. Yeah, well, his real name is Wyatt King. Oh, don't you ever read them reward notices down to the post office?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, I just don't remember names. Very good, I guess. What about Mr. King?

[Ollie]

He's being captured.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

You don't see.

[Mack Hawkins]

Yes, I sure have found him down at 10 a foot creek. He was all shun up.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

My, my.

[Ollie]

And the darndest thing is, nobody knows who who shot him.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, what's so peculiar about that?

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, in the first place, the fellow who done it, he'd stand to collect a mighty nice reward. All them holdups, Kingspool.

[Brett Poncet]

What?

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, there must be at least $5,000 offered for him, dead or alive.

[Brett Poncet]

Why.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Why, that sure is a lot of money. Well, I better get over to my desk and start working on the account.

[Ollie]

Hollywood, that ain't the only strange thing about this here business.

[Mack Hawkins]

What are you Driving.

[Ollie]

Well, I told you. The Kid's been shot at close range. That means somebody met up with him face to face. He wasn't drag or nothing like that.

[Mack Hawkins]

Yeah, yeah, See what you mean.

[Ollie]

It would take a mighty big man to stand up to Wyatt King. And a mighty fast man out drawing.

[Mack Hawkins]

Yeah, he was supposed to be Lightning gunfighter.

[Ollie]

He's about 10 graves. I will testify to that.

[Mack Hawkins]

Sure ain't nobody around here. Well, these ways I can't think of anybody. Can you, May? No.

[Ollie]

No, can't. Not a single solitary soul. I've been racking my brain ever since I heard what had happened.

[Brett Poncet]

Morning, Judge. Yes, sir.

[Mack Hawkins]

What can I do for you?

[Brett Poncet]

You're the backer.

[Mack Hawkins]

That's right, mister.

[Brett Poncet]

Name is Poncet. Brett Poncet.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, I'm pleased to meet you, Mr. Poncet. I'm Oliver Rowan.

[Brett Poncet]

Hi. Howdy. I got a little check here. I was wondering.

[Ollie]

Did you say Brett Poncet?

[Brett Poncet]

That's right.

[Ollie]

Well, I'll be doggone.

[Mack Hawkins]

What's the matter?

[Ollie]

Why, he's a sick shooter, Ollie the Six Shooter. Ain't that right, Mr. Poncet?

[Brett Poncet]

Well, sometimes I guess folks call me. There, There.

[Ollie]

What did I tell you? Well, sir, I guess we don't have to do no more wondering about who shot up Wyatt King.

[Brett Poncet]

Why?

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, sir, we're almighty grateful, Mr. Ponson.

[Brett Poncet]

Hold on.

[Ollie]

If we'd have known you was in these parts, we wouldn't have had no doubts in the first place. No, sir.

[Brett Poncet]

I'm afraid I don't follow you.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, you're the fellow who shot it out with the King last night, ain't you? Well, it must have been you. It couldn't have been nobody else.

[Ollie]

Why, of course it was him, Ollie. There ain't no doubt about it. I said it would take a fast man to outdraw the Kid. Well, the Six Shooter's just about the fastest man on the west of the Mississippi, from the way I hear it.

[Brett Poncet]

Yes, you do. Well, that's mighty flattering. But as far as outdrawing Wyatt King. Well, I wouldn't know about that, seeing as how we never met up.

[Mack Hawkins]

Never met up?

[Ollie]

You mean you. You didn't recognize him last night?

[Brett Poncet]

Last night?

[Ollie]

Well, whenever it was you shot him.

[Brett Poncet]

Now. Now, let's get this straight, gents. I. I didn't shoot Wyatt King last night or any other time. I've never laid eyes on him.

[Ollie]

Well, if it wasn't you, then. Then who did do it?

[Brett Poncet]

I sure wouldn't know. I sure wouldn't know. I rode down the trail from Fort Drexel. I didn't see any sign of Wyatt King or anybody else.

[Ollie]

Tenderfoot Creek's just off that trail.

[Brett Poncet]

Is that so?

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, if Mr. Bunsen says he didn't do it, I guess he didn't.

[Ollie]

Yeah. Oh, wait a minute. Sure. Why didn't I think of it before?

[Mack Hawkins]

Yeah, I think it was.

[Ollie]

Everybody knows that the Six Shooter don't like to take credit for what he does. He's the sort of man that hides his lamp under a bushel. Well, you ain't gonna get away with it here in Copper Springs, Mr. Ponson.

[Mack Hawkins]

You're absolutely right, man. Why, shooting an outlaw like Wyatt King ain't nothing to be ashamed of. Well, Mr. Ponce, you ought to be proud of yourself.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, maybe I would if I'd done it. The fact is. Posse.

[Ollie]

Now, just. Just wait till I tell Sheriff about this here.

[Brett Poncet]

Here, and I.

[Ollie]

Wait a minute, Mike, wait a minute.

[Brett Poncet]

Listen to me. William, you mind the bank.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Yes, sir, Mr. Ron. I'll.

[Brett Poncet]

Mr. Ron. Hey, why do you. Well, I'll be darned. Well, I never saw anything like it. For the next half hour, folks came up to me from all directions, all saying I'd shot Wyatt King, giving me their congratulations. I told them I hadn't had anything to do with it, but they just wouldn't be convinced. And I didn't see how I could straighten them out on it. I. It did make me feel kind of funny, though. All this halibaloo over a misunderstanding. And then when the mayor said something about letting the kids out of school for a day in my honor, well, I just had to find some way of putting a stop to it. So I headed over to the jail, introduced myself to Sheriff Hampton.

[Mack Hawkins]

It's a privilege to meet you, Mr. Ponson. A real privilege.

[Brett Poncet]

Yes, a privilege. Yes.

[Mack Hawkins]

Oh, not that I wouldn't have caught up with King myself sooner or later, but you kind of speeded up the operation.

[Brett Poncet]

Yes, yes. Now, that's what I want to talk to you about, Sheriff.

[Mack Hawkins]

Oh, now, don't you worry about the reward. I'll see that you get.

[Brett Poncet]

No, I'm not interested in any reward.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, yeah, yeah. Everybody says you're the generous type. I heard that.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, I'm not that generous, Sheriff. Now, I reckon I'd take the reward if I was entitled to it. Oh, now, Mr. Sheriff, you've got to listen to me. Now, I didn't shoot Wyatt Kane.

[Mack Hawkins]

I heard you've been trying to ease out of taking the credit.

[Brett Poncet]

I'm not trying to do anything except tell you the truth. You ask King. When he comes to, you'll find out.

[Mack Hawkins]

Oh, he came to a little while ago, Mr. Poncet. Right after Doc McIntyre got through patching him up. He's practically as good as new now.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, go on, go on, ask him. If I had anything to do with.

[Mack Hawkins]

Shooting him, why should I ask him again?

[Brett Poncet]

Again?

[Mack Hawkins]

Why, sure. As soon as he was able to talk, I questioned him. Well, you says you made a lucky draw, Mr. Poncet. Of course, that's just an alibi.

[Brett Poncet]

No, now, wait a minute here. You mean to say that Wyatt King claims I shot him, huh?

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, you're the six shooter, ain't you?

[Brett Poncet]

Well.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, that's who he says done it.

[Brett Poncet]

I just couldn't believe my ears. I never laid eyes on this Wyoming Kid in my whole life. Boy, I'd heard plenty about him, of course, all his escapades. He had quite a reputation. Well, Sheriff Hemphill wasn't even easier to convince than the rest of the folks had been. So finally, I asked him if he'd mind letting me talk to King. The fellow who'd shot him must have resembled me in some way. At least that's what I figured. I was certain that once we met head on, the King could see that he'd been wrong.

[Mack Hawkins]

Well, why, huh? This the man who shot you?

[Wyatt King]

Why do you have to keep going over that? Sheriff, I told you who done it.

[Mack Hawkins]

Yeah, but Mr. Poncet here kind of disagrees with you.

[Brett Poncet]

I sure do. Oh, now, let's just get this thing straightened out once and for all, and then we won't have any.

[Wyatt King]

What's the matter with you, Brit? You was ready enough to pull the trigger last night. Why are you trying to lie out of it now?

[Brett Poncet]

Why, you. You know, we've never run into each other before last night or any other time.

[Wyatt King]

I got a bandage on my belly that says different.

[Brett Poncet]

Now, take a good look at me, Wyatt. Now, maybe in the dark, you sort of thought that the fellow. Well, maybe there was a likeness.

[Wyatt King]

You got a twin brother?

[Brett Poncet]

Of course, I've got no twin brother.

[Wyatt King]

If you ain't got a twin brother, that was you that shot me. It wasn't very dark, either. Don't you remember the way we were standing there in the moonlight? And the way you went for your gun? The same gun you're wearing right now? I sure ain't likely to forget it.

[Brett Poncet]

I. Well, now, look here, Sheriff. Now, you listen to me. I don't know what's the matter with this King. You must have gone local or something. But I give you My word, Mr.

[Mack Hawkins]

Poncet, we all know how you feel about accepting honors and having folks look up to you, but this is one time you just ain't going to be able to get away with it. As a matter of fact, I believe there's some kind of a doings planned over at the town hall later on this afternoon after the parade.

[Brett Poncet]

That is the p. The parade? Oh, now, you just hold on here. Now, before everybody starts tearing around in circles, I like to talk to Wyatt alone, if you don't mind.

[Mack Hawkins]

What for?

[Brett Poncet]

Well, I. Just give me a couple of minutes with him, Sheriff.

[Mack Hawkins]

All right, all right. But I sure don't see what you hope to gain by it. I'll have to lock you in with him, though. Can't take no chances with a man like King.

[Ollie]

Give a holler when you want out.

[Brett Poncet]

All right, King, I want the truth.

[Wyatt King]

Well, I ain't the one whose loco punts it. You are. That's a pretty big reward for me.

[Brett Poncet]

There's a reward for the fellow who captured you.

[Wyatt King]

Well, as long as I keep saying you are the fellow you can collect, I'm doing you a favor.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, maybe I don't happen to want any favor from you.

[Wyatt King]

Well, don't look like you got much choice in the matter, does it? Of course, just between the two of us now. Now, seeing you right close like it might have been somebody else that shot me.

[Brett Poncet]

You know doggone well it was.

[Wyatt King]

Well, even if it was, even if I was mistaken about it, I. I sure wouldn't admit it.

[Brett Poncet]

I don't see why not.

[Wyatt King]

Oh, now, Mr. Pony, you don't think I want folks to know I was outdoor by a little fellow with gray hair and a pot belly.

[Brett Poncet]

Oh, how's that?

[Wyatt King]

A man nobody's heard of. A grocery clerk or a sod buster. That's what he looked like to me. Why, he even had a ready made suit on. A coat and pants cut out of the same cloth, stiff collar and a necktie. I never supposed a man like him would know how to use a gun, otherwise I'd been more careful.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, at least we finally got down to the truth, huh? Now all you gotta do is tell the sheriff. And.

[Wyatt King]

I'm not telling anybody else. Ponson and I got an idea you're telling them. Won't make much difference. Why not? As long as I keep saying it was you that shot me. And of course that's what I'm gonna say. I ain't got no choice.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, you haven't got any reason to lie about it.

[Wyatt King]

Well, now, look, it's one thing to be outshot by Brett Ponson, that ain't.

[Brett Poncet]

So hard to swallow.

[Wyatt King]

But the idea of being outdoor by nobody. Well, I wouldn't be able to face my friends again after I break out of jail. They'd all have a laugh on me. Yes. Sure was a lucky break when the sheriff come in and said you was in town. Asked if you was the one that shot me.

[Brett Poncet]

You're not going to get away with this. Can you?

[Wyatt King]

Well, I'm sorry if it upset you, Poncet, but after all, I got my reputation.

[Brett Poncet]

Your. Your reputation? Why, I never heard of such a thing.

[Ollie]

Sheriff, get me out of here.

[James Stewart]

We'll return to James Stewart as the Sick Shooter in just a moment.

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[Narrator]

The holidays are all about sharing with family meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart. With Instacart's family carts, everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus, enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and terms apply.

[James Stewart]

Each year, forest fires take a tragic toll, destroying the natural resources that are vital to our nation's strength. Remember, one moment of carelessness can destroy national beauty and wealth that can never be replaced. Forest fires have been called America's most shameful waste because they can be prevented. Don't fail to do your part in preventing them. Don't be guilty of starting one now. Act two of the Six Shooter, starring James Stewart as Brit Poncet.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, I knew that there wasn't any point in hanging around the jail trying to make Sheriff Hemphill believed what Wyatt King had told me. King was right as long as he kept insisting that I shot him, I wasn't going to be able to convince anybody of the truth. Unless. Unless the man who really did shoot him. I was walking down the main street, passing the bank when I remembered what King had said. A gray haired fellow with a pot belly, wearing a ready made suit and a stiff collar and tie. Hmm. I'd seen somebody who looked like that. Couldn't think where, where, where was it? And then I just happened to glance into the bank. Hmm.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Yes, sir, what can I do? Oh, what? You're Mr. Ponson, ain't you?

[Brett Poncet]

That's right.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

My, you sure stirred up a lot of talk, Mr. Poncet. The whole town chief.

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah, I know.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Mr. Rowan just stepped out for a couple of minutes, but if there's anything I can do.

[Brett Poncet]

You're the teller, aren't you?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Yes, sir. Been with the bank for 26 years now.

[Brett Poncet]

You don't say.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

The name's Jonas Pilgrim, Mr. Ponson.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, pleased to meet you, Mr. Pilgrim.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Of course, if you're in a hurry for something, maybe I could find Mr. Rowland.

[Brett Poncet]

No, no, as a matter of fact, it was you I wanted to talk to.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Me?

[Brett Poncet]

Yes, yes. You see, I've just come from a session with Wyatt King over at the jail. Oh, and he told me about the shooting last night.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

That's real interesting, Mr. Ponson. Well, I've got some statements to get out now, so if you don't mind.

[Brett Poncet]

And King told me about the. Did it.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Oh, geez.

[Brett Poncet]

You know, it's a funny thing, Mr. Pilgrim. The description he gave me sure fits you right down to that tie you're wearing. And to come to think of it, you're just about the only person in town that does fit.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

I don't know what you mean, sir.

[Brett Poncet]

Why, you don't, huh? You don't? Well, it was nice Talking to you, Mr. Ponchet.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Yeah, you. You won't mention this to anybody else?

[Brett Poncet]

Well, I don't see what difference it makes as long as it wasn't you he was talking about.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, it. It might be kind of embarrassing. I mean. Well.

[Brett Poncet]

Just what do you mean?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

All right, all right, I'll admit it to you, Mr. Poncet. But you gotta promise me you won't tell anybody else. You gotta give me your word.

[Brett Poncet]

You shot him, huh?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

I didn't intend to. I didn't even know who he was. You see, I wasn't here when he.

[Brett Poncet]

Held up the bank.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

I was on my way back to town from Woody Tolliver's ranch. I'd read out to Tell her that her account was overdrawn again.

[Brett Poncet]

Uh huh.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

And this fellow, he come at me out of the dark, told me he wanted my horse. I. I didn't even stop to think. I just grabbed my gun and let fire. I never should have done it, Mr. Poncet. I don't know what got into me.

[Brett Poncet]

You. You're sorry you shot a man like Wyatt King?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

No, no, no, not exactly. But it's kind of hard to explain. The fact is, I'm married, Mr. Poncet.

[Brett Poncet]

Hmm.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

And Matilda, that's my wife. Matilda's kind of particular about some things. She's real particular about me. That's why I gotta wear this doggone collar. Just cuts my neck so I can hardly stand it sometimes.

[Brett Poncet]

Is that so? Well, shame. I sure feel sorry for you, Jonas, but I don't see what that's got any connection with.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, now, Mr. Ponson, don't you see? If Matilda knew, if I so much as carried a gun, why, she just have a conniption. And if she was to find out that I used to be, well, kind of experienced at gunplay, why, she'd just raise the roof. I don't think that she'd ever let me get out of her sight after that. You see, I never told her that when I was younger, I used to be sort of quick on the trigger.

[Brett Poncet]

I'll be doggone. Well, I take it your talents haven't exactly deserted you.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, sir, that was a dog. Gandhi. I wouldn't even had that dang revolver with me. Except that Widow Tolliver had given me some money to deposit, and she was real worried about my getting it into town. All right. You see, it was old Smith Tolliver's gun. She insisted on loaning it to me.

[Brett Poncet]

I see.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

When this Wyatt King jumped up at me, well, I guess some of my old instincts must come through. Leastways, the next thing I knew, he was laying there in the dirt, not moving.

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah, I'll be done.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Now, mind you. Now, mind you, I wasn't a gunfighter in my younger days, but I did kind of manage to shoot my way out of a few scrapes. Yes, I don't look much like it now, do I?

[Brett Poncet]

Well, a man's liable to do a certain amount of aging, I expect.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Sometimes I think I've done more in my share. Well, anyway, I suppose you can see now why I don't want folks to know what happened last night about me and Wyatt King.

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah, yeah, I guess you've got a point, Jonas. But I can't go on taking the credit for what you did we, Mr. Punch it.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

You give me your word on it?

[Brett Poncet]

No, no, no, no. I didn't do any such thing.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, you sure did. Well, I wouldn't have been telling all this if I What in tarnishing. Mr. Hawkins. Mr. Hawkins. What's all the rumpus about Wyatt King?

[Ollie]

You just broke out of jail.

[Brett Poncet]

He broke out of jail?

[Ollie]

Some darn fool forgot to lock a cell. Sheriff thinks he's heading toward Badwater Falls. Well, we're getting a posse together, for goodness sake. We won't be needing you, Jonas.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Oh, no, no, no, of course not.

[Ollie]

But the sheriff was real anxious to have you come along, Mr. Poncet.

[Brett Poncet]

Is that so? Well, I'm sorry I won't be able to, absolutely.

[James Stewart]

But you.

[Ollie]

You've already captured why it wants.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, let's just say that once was enough. As a matter of fact, I'm freaking on leaving town. Which way is Badwater Falls? South.

[Ollie]

Due south.

[Brett Poncet]

I'm heading north. So long. Well, inside of five minutes, the whole town of Copper Springs had ridden off from a southern direction. The male population, that is. I guess Jonas and I were about the only two men that hadn't joined up with the sheriff's posse. In a way, I was kind of relieved that King had broken out of jail. At least I'd be able to leave town without any more of this foolishness about me capturing him. Oh, not that I ever wanted a fellow like King to go free, you understand. But I figured the posse probably catch up to him pretty soon. He couldn't have had much of a head start. So I headed over to the livery stable to get Scar. I'd already paid for his keep in advance, but the man who ran the stable had gone off with the others. And I didn't feel like sticking around for the refund. Easy, boy. Easy, Scar. I looked around for his saddle. It was lying on the floor over by a pile of hay. And just as I picked it up, I noticed something funny about the hay. It was starting to move.

[Wyatt King]

Just keep holding on to that saddle.

[Brett Poncet]

Punch it.

[Wyatt King]

And don't reach for your gun. Wyatt, if you make a move, I'll ram this pitchfork right through you.

[Brett Poncet]

Oh, you're crazy. Watch. You'll never get out of town.

[Wyatt King]

Ain't nobody left town to stop me except you.

[Brett Poncet]

You got a wound in your belly that'll stop you.

[Wyatt King]

Don't worry about me, Puncett. I'll make out now. I'm taking your gun and your horse.

[Brett Poncet]

There are plenty other horses here. I'm taking yours, Wyatt.

[Wyatt King]

Shut up or you get a taste of these problems.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, there wasn't any point of my arguing about it. Not with a pitchfork digging into my chest. So I waited until he reached out a hand for my gun. Then I gave that saddle a little toss. Caught him right in the neck. He went over backwards. I started to go from a holster, but Wyatt stuck out the handle of that pitchfork. And the next thing I knew, I was down the floor beside him. He banged his fist into my face and I felt his hands go from my throat. I managed to get up on a knee and flipped him over. I hoisted myself onto my knee, but he let loose with a kick and I went flat again. I got a glimpse of his boot coming into my face. I just got out the way in time. And then he missed me and almost lost his balance. And I had time to get on my feet again. Came charging in with both fists again. One of them whipped past my ear and the other one smashed into my shoulder. That left him wide open. Well, I just couldn't leave him lying there on the floor unconscious. So I figured it wouldn't be very long before he came to. So I picked him up and carter him across the street to where he belonged. The jail was completely deserted and wasn't assigned to anybody. But the door to Wyatt's cell was unlocked. So I laid him on the cot inside and pulled the blanket up over him. I didn't want him to catch cold or anything like that. Found the key in the front office and I locked him in. Hi, Jonas. Hold up a minute, Jonas.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Mr. Ponchett. Why, I thought you left town.

[Brett Poncet]

I'm leaving right away, Jonas. Right away. That is, if you'll do me a little favor.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

A favor?

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah, you're through for the day with the bank, aren't you?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Oh, yes, yes, yes. We close at 4 o'clock sharp. I'm on my way home now.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, I was wondering if you'd mind putting off your supper a little bit.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well.

[Brett Poncet]

Until the posse comes back, that is.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

What for, Mr. Punch?

[Brett Poncet]

Well, you see, I was over at the jail just a minute ago and there's nobody over there watching things while the sheriff's out of town.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, I don't see what difference it makes. Wyatt King was his only prisoner and he's escaped.

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah, but even so, you know. Now suppose somebody were to break in? Like they could do a lot of damage, you know, the sheriff's probably got some important papers in the file.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

No, Mr. Ponson, no.

[Brett Poncet]

But you never know, Jonas. You never know about things like that.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, I guess the sheriff should have locked up when he left. I don't see what.

[Brett Poncet]

Well, then you won't mind holding down the fort while he's gone.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, I. As long as there aren't any prisoners to look after.

[Brett Poncet]

I just wouldn't feel right about running off if there wasn't somebody to mind the jail.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Well, Mr. Ponce, it sure seems to me like you're worrying unnecessarily, but. Well, I guess I can do that much for you.

[Brett Poncet]

Thanks, Jonas. I really appreciate it. All I have to do is sit in the front office until somebody shows up.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

All right, Mr. Ponson. I'll get right over there.

[Brett Poncet]

Go on, Jonas. Good luck to you.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

Oh, Mr. Ponces.

[Brett Poncet]

Yeah?

[Jonas Pilgrim]

I hope you aren't put out about my letting folks think it was you who shot Wyatt King last night.

[Brett Poncet]

Oh, I guess I'll get over it.

[Jonas Pilgrim]

After all, sometimes it is best if a man takes responsibility for something, even if he hasn't done it himself.

[Brett Poncet]

Why, at all. Oh, yeah, yeah, I guess that. Yeah, well, I'll be saying yeah. I tell you what, I got out of Copper Springs fast as I could. I just wasn't sure how things were going to work out. But then a couple of weeks later, a copy of the Cup Springs Press caught up with me and there was Jonas Pilgrim's picture all over the front page. Yes, sir. Great big article telling how the sheriff and his posse had come back to town without finding a trace of Wide. And there he was, right in the jail. And there was Jonas Pilgrim snoozing in the front office, calm as a cucumber. Modest Pilgrim, that's what the paper called Jonas is that he tried to deny hadn't anything to do with Wyatt's capture. But the folks in Proper Springs, they just hadn't believed him. Well, it was plain as day that he'd taken Wyatt single handed. Well, like Jonas said, sometimes it's best for a man to take the responsibility of the thing, even if he hasn't.

[Narrator]

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart. With Instacart's family carts, everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and terms apply.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't twinkling. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot, CVS and more through Instacart and enjoy free delivery on your first three order, service fees and term supply.

[James Stewart]

The Six Shooter is a transcribed NBC Radio Network production in association with Revue Productions. It is written by Frank Burt and is based on a character created by him. Mr. Stewart may currently be seen in the Universal International picture the Glenn Miller Story. Others in the cast were Bill Johnstone, Herb Vigren, Junius Matthews, Barney Phillips and Joel Cranston. Special music for this program was by Basil Adler and the entire production is under the direction of Jack Johnstone. All characters and incidents were fictitious and any resemblance to actual characters or incidents is purely coincidental. Oh, by the way, you'll be interested in knowing that the Six Shooter has been chosen for broadcast to our men overseas through the facilities of the Armed Forces Radio Services. This is John Wald speaking. McDonald Carey stars in Jason and the Golden Fleece tonight on the NBC Radio Network.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook join in the conversation by going to otrwesterns.Com Discord and don't forget to send us an email podcast trwesterns.com this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and again, thanks for listening.

[Wyatt King]

SA.