The Streets Are Guarded | Challenge of the Yukon (01-22-52)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Streets Are Guarded | Challenge of the Yukon"

Release Date: June 18, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns

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Introduction

In the latest episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns titled "The Streets Are Guarded | Challenge of the Yukon," host Andrew Rhynes immerses listeners in a thrilling adventure set against the rugged backdrop of the Wild Northwest during the Gold Rush era. This episode, part of the beloved Sergeant Preston of the Yukon series, showcases the titular Mountie’s relentless pursuit of lawbreakers alongside his loyal wonder dog, Yukon King.

The Suspicious Constable Herold

The story unfolds at White Pass, where Sergeant Preston has returned after a long winter in the Klondike. Upon his arrival, he meets with the inspector overseeing the customs post.

[04:23] Inspector: "Sergeant, welcome to White Pass."

[05:02] Inspector: "Meaning that you're not entering the territory."

During this meeting, Sergeant Preston notices inconsistencies in Constable Herold’s behavior and uniform. Herold’s coat has a conspicuous tear, resembling a bullet hole, which raises Sergeant Preston's suspicions about his true identity.

[08:20] Constable Herold: "What are you suggesting, Sergeant?"

[08:30] Sergeant Preston: "That the man who calls himself Constable Herold may be an imposter?"

Determined to uncover the truth, Sergeant Preston volunteers to investigate Herold's background and movements, suspecting foul play.

Investigation in Skagway

Sergeant Preston disguises himself as a local dog puncher and travels to Skagway, a bustling boomtown teeming with prospectors and adventurers. Accompanied by Yukon King, he checks into a hotel and begins his investigation by visiting waterfront cafes, the hub of Skagway’s activity.

At one such café, he encounters Smitty, a cockney sailor with ties to the recent mysterious events.

[10:03] Smitty: "Now there's a fine looking sled dog. What do you call him, mate?"

[10:17] Smitty: "I'd have been right until a few days ago. But the gold fever gets in your blood up here. I jumped my ship, I did."

Their conversation reveals that Constable Herold was present on the Portland Bell ship two weeks prior, unloading his gear before mysteriously disappearing. Smitty mentions a shooting that occurred the same night Herold was supposed to be securing his supplies, deepening Sergeant Preston’s suspicions.

[11:42] Smitty: "There was a shooting that night. A murder. It happened down at the end of the docks."

Confrontation with Red Carver and Bart Major

As Sergeant Preston delves deeper, tensions rise when he confronts Red Carver, a known associate of the nefarious Bart Major. A fierce altercation ensues at Bart’s café, showcasing Sergeant Preston’s combat prowess and Yukon King’s protective instincts.

[12:25] Constable Herold: "It wouldn't surprise me if someone stopped that moth he used for good."

Unbeknownst to him, Bart Major and his henchmen are orchestrating the turmoil from the shadows, aiming to eliminate Sergeant Preston to secure their operations.

The Impostor Revealed

The climax intensifies when Duke Halloran, revealed to be a former associate of the impostor Herold, bursts into the scene. It becomes evident that Constable Herold is, in fact, Duke Halloran impersonating a lawman to execute Bart Major’s criminal plans.

[20:15] Constable Herold: "I knew the whole deal was queer and I'd have to clear out. I slipped away as soon as it was dark, and I came straight here to warn you."

A dramatic showdown ensues as Sergeant Preston, aided by Yukon King, confronts Bart Major and his cohorts. The tension culminates in a daring escape attempt where Sergeant Preston and King narrowly evade capture, utilizing their wit and bravery to outmaneuver their pursuers.

Resolution and Arrest

The situation reaches a turning point when a squad of marines, led by Captain Marshall, arrives to restore order. The marines, under Constable Herold’s (Duke Halloran’s) manipulation, impose martial law to arrest the culprits.

[25:48] Narrator: "Disarm the men. No, wait a minute."

With the arrival of authoritative forces, Bart Major and his gang are apprehended, bringing an end to their reign of terror.

Teaser for the Next Adventure

As the dust settles, Sergeant Preston is briefed on the next mission, hinting at new challenges and adventures awaiting him in future episodes.

[28:28] Inspector: "You'll have to move fast. If they're in Little Port, they'll probably head for the border."

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Key Takeaways

• Intrigue and Deception: The episode masterfully weaves a tale of impersonation and betrayal, highlighting Sergeant Preston’s keen instincts and dedication to justice.

• Dynamic Characters: From the steadfast Sergeant Preston and the loyal Yukon King to the duplicitous Duke Halloran and the menacing Bart Major, each character plays a pivotal role in driving the narrative forward.

• Action-Packed Scenes: The episode is rich with intense confrontations, strategic investigations, and heart-pounding chase sequences that keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

Notable Quotes

• Sergeant Preston:
  “That the man who calls himself Constable Herold may be an imposter?” [(08:30)]

• Smitty:
  “There was a shooting that night. A murder.” [(11:42)]

• Constable Herold/Duke Halloran:
  “I slipped away as soon as it was dark, and I came straight here to warn you.” [(20:15)]

Conclusion

"The Streets Are Guarded | Challenge of the Yukon" exemplifies the charm and suspense of classic Western radio dramas. Through meticulous storytelling and rich audio restoration, Old Time Radio Westerns brings the legendary adventures of Sergeant Preston to life, offering both nostalgia for longtime fans and an engaging experience for new listeners. Join Andrew Rhynes and Yukon King in their next quest to uphold law and order in the untamed Wild Northwest.

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Listen to more episodes and subscribe to Old Time Radio Westerns on otrwesterns.com, follow us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for exclusive content.

Transcript

[Nicole Byer]

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[Narrator]

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[Expedia Voice]

You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights, hotels and hammocks for less Expedia Made to Travel.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Narrator]

Now. As gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild Northwest, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice, the breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the Northwest, blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches back to the days of the Gold Rush with Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog, Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon.

[Expedia Voice]

Ben hadn't had a decent night's sleep in a month, so during one of his restless nights he booked a package trip abroad on Expedia. When he arrived at his beachside hotel, he discovered a miraculous bed slung between two trees and fell into the best sleep of his life. You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights and hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia Made to travel.

[Narrator]

There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puffed Wheat. It's neat and when you hear that shooting, you're dern tootin that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns. Not only that, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice are the ones that give you added food values of restored natural grain, amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron and delicious. Just taste them. They're full of bang up nut like flavor. For a nutritious treat that can't be beat, eat Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat during the Long winter Sergeant Preston had spent in the far north, White Pass had been transformed into a well equipped and well manned customs post. On his return in the spring, the sergeant reported to the new headquarters building and waited to see the inspector in the outer office, where he had a good view of the long line of prospectors filing up the trail from Skagway. One of the men, red bearded and weighing at least 200 pounds, attracted his attention, and he turned to a printed list posted on the bulletin board. Just then, the inspector entered the outer office.

[Inspector]

Sergeant, welcome to White Pass.

[Nicole Byer]

Good to see you, sir.

[Inspector]

And good to have you back. Hello, King.

[Nicole Byer]

Inspector, would you take a look out the window?

[Inspector]

What?

[Nicole Byer]

Notice the big man with the red beard waiting to be questioned by the constable on duty. The one with the scar?

[Inspector]

He'll never get into the territory.

[Nicole Byer]

Recognize him?

[Inspector]

He's been turned down twice. His description is posted there on the bulletin board.

[Nicole Byer]

Sir. I've just been reading it.

[Inspector]

A thoroughly undesirable character. One of Bart Major's cutthroats in Skagway. His name suits him. Red Carver.

[Nicole Byer]

The constable on duty seems to be ready to pass him through.

[Inspector]

I'll attend to that.

[Narrator]

The inspector hurried from headquarters to the customs post, where Red Carver was shouldering his pack.

[Inspector]

Just a moment.

[Narrator]

Carver, huh?

[Constable Herold]

My name's Halloran.

[Inspector]

That may be the way your papers read, but your name is Carver. You'll not have to pay customs duty on those supplies.

[Constable Herold]

Oh, yeah? Meaning what?

[Inspector]

Meaning that you're not entering the territory.

[Constable Herold]

Now, just a minute.

[Inspector]

Too many men waiting to waste any time on you or any other member of Bart Major's gang. Back to Skagway, Carver.

[Nicole Byer]

Why, a boy.

[Inspector]

On your way.

[Narrator]

Hey, look.

[Inspector]

Constable Downing, take over here. Harold, follow me.

[Constable Herold]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Nicole Byer]

Come on.

[Inspector]

This is Sergeant Preston, Constable, just back from a winter in the Klondike.

[Constable Herold]

Hello, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

Hello, Constable.

[Inspector]

Harold has been with us just a few weeks. Constable, you very nearly made a serious mistake.

[Constable Herold]

Well, sir.

[Inspector]

Read this where I'm pointing.

[Constable Herold]

Red Carver, age 35, weight 200, height 6ft, red hair, blue eyes, deep scar on left cheek.

[Inspector]

You were supposed to have memorized every description on this list.

[Constable Herold]

Oh, I, I did, sir.

[Inspector]

The reason for that was to make it possible for you to recognize and stop any of the men who tried to enter the territory while you were on duty.

[Constable Herold]

I understand, sir.

[Inspector]

Have you any explanation for not stopping Carver?

[Constable Herold]

None, sir. Except that I've examined the papers of a great many men this afternoon, and I, I, I wasn't paying much attention to their faces anymore.

[Inspector]

Well, there's Been no harm done. Carver's been turned back.

[Constable Herold]

But in the future, it'll never happen again.

[Inspector]

Sir, I must impress on you how important it is to keep these men out of the territory.

[Constable Herold]

I realize that, Inspector.

[Inspector]

Then in the future, be more alert.

[Constable Herold]

I shall, sir.

[Inspector]

That'll be all.

[Constable Herold]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

That was Sergeant Preston's first meeting with Constable Herold. He saw him at supper, but had no opportunity to talk with him until later that evening in the barracks. Harold was patching a small hole in the coat of his dress uniform when the sergeant stopped beside his bed.

[Nicole Byer]

Evening, Constable.

[Constable Herold]

Hello, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

What happened to your tunic?

[Constable Herold]

Oh, nothing. Just. Just ripped it.

[Nicole Byer]

Looks like a bullet hole.

[Constable Herold]

Oh, no, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

Just a tear divided. Old Sam isn't here.

[Constable Herold]

Sam?

[Nicole Byer]

On the supply room at training headquarters. He was a wonder with a needle.

[Constable Herold]

Oh, yes, good old Sam. Yes, I could certainly use his help, but this will have to do, I'm afraid.

[Nicole Byer]

That doesn't look too bad. I think I'll take a walk before I turn in. See you in the morning, Constable.

[Constable Herold]

Good night, Sergeant.

[Narrator]

The sergeant's walk took him straight to the inspector's cabin. They talked for some time of the Northwest Mounted's activities in the Klondike. And then the sergeant turned the conversation to Constable Herold.

[Nicole Byer]

I've just been talking with your latest recruit, Inspector.

[Inspector]

Oh, he has a great deal to learn.

[Nicole Byer]

I'm wondering if he was wearing his dress tunic when he reported for duty.

[Inspector]

Odd that you should ask that, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

Why, sir?

[Inspector]

Because he wasn't. It was his first breach of regulations. I called it to his attention, but he explained that torn the coat on bolt.

[Nicole Byer]

I saw the tear this evening. Looked like a bullet hole to me.

[Inspector]

What?

[Nicole Byer]

Not only that, but the material around the hole is discolored. A little bullet hole in the chest, directly over the heart.

[Inspector]

Well, obviously the hole couldn't have been.

[Nicole Byer]

Caused by a bullet or Constable Harold wouldn't be alive.

[Inspector]

Exactly.

[Nicole Byer]

But is he alive, Inspector?

[Inspector]

What are you suggesting, Sergeant?

[Nicole Byer]

That the man who calls himself Constable Herold may be an imposter?

[Smitty]

Indeed.

[Nicole Byer]

A few minutes ago, sir, I said to him, too bad that old Sam from the supply room at the training barracks isn't around to repair your tunic? He said. Yes, good old.

[Inspector]

John Wilkes has been in charge of the supply room for as long as I remember. He's the only one at headquarters who does any tailoring.

[Nicole Byer]

I know that and so do you, sir. But Constable Herald didn't seem to.

[Inspector]

Well, this is something that must be investigated thoroughly.

[Nicole Byer]

May I volunteer for the assignment, Inspector?

[Inspector]

Where would you start?

[Nicole Byer]

Sergeant in Skagway. Hand out of uniform? If that's permissible.

[Inspector]

It'd be the only way to get any information. I'd like all of Constable Herald's movements traced from the time he walked down the gangplank of the Portland Bell on. Let me think. The afternoon of the 14th until he reports here on the morning of the 15th. The assignment's yours, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

I'll leave for Skagway before dawn tomorrow, sir.

[Inspector]

An excellent idea. Before dawn tomorrow so that no one will see you leave.

[Narrator]

And so it happened that Sergeant Preston wore the rough trail clothes of a dog puncher. When he reached Skagway the following day, he checked in at one of the boomtown's many hotels. Then he and King started on a tour of the waterfront cafes. The one closest to the pier where the Portland Bell had docked two weeks before was his first port of call. The first person he talked to was a cockney sailor who was attracted by King's appearance.

[Smitty]

Now there's a fine looking sled dog. What do you call him, mate?

[Nicole Byer]

King.

[Smitty]

Ay, he is a king too. Are you from the inside, mate?

[Nicole Byer]

Just down from Dawson, Are you now?

[Smitty]

Well, that's where I'm heading myself.

[Nicole Byer]

Oh, I'd have taken you for a sailor rather than a prospector.

[Smitty]

You'd have been right until a few days ago. But the gold fever gets in your blood up here. I jumped my ship, I did.

[Nicole Byer]

Could it have been the Portland Bell?

[Smitty]

It could. And it was not a bad berth Captain Hawkins commanded. Still, I've had enough of the sea. It's time I made a stake and settled down.

[Nicole Byer]

Did you bring in many passengers?

[Smitty]

About 300, that's all.

[Nicole Byer]

What if you happen to run into a friend of mine on board?

[Smitty]

Now who would that be?

[Nicole Byer]

His name is Harold.

[Smitty]

Constable Harold. You mean the young mountie? Why, I knew him well. Listened to him talk for hours about the school he's been to.

[Nicole Byer]

And you were interested?

[Smitty]

Fascinated. And there was another young fellow, one of the passengers. His name was Duke Halloran. When I wasn't asking the constable questions, he was. Between the two of us, he found out all there was to know about the Northwest Mounted Police.

[Nicole Byer]

Oh, tell me, did you see the constable at all after the ship had docked?

[Smitty]

Well, I helped him unload his gear that afternoon and piled it on the dock. He was going to sleep with it that night and get some Indians to cart it up to White Pass first thing in the morning. He must have made an early start. He was gone when I hit the deck.

[Nicole Byer]

Too bad, too bad.

[Smitty]

I thought to myself at the time, too bad the constable didn't stick around. Even if he doesn't have any authority in Skagway, he'd have made some sort of investigation.

[Nicole Byer]

Investigation of what?

[Smitty]

There was a shooting that night. A murder. It happened down at the end of the docks.

[Nicole Byer]

Who was killed?

[Smitty]

One of the passengers on our ship. He'd been showing a lot of money on board. I suppose he made the mistake of doing the same thing in Skagway.

[Inspector]

Maybe you don't know it, but there's.

[Smitty]

No law in this town. Things may be different when a Northern Star gets in tomorrow. The next day, they say there's a company of marines on board. I'm talking about no. No law at all.

[Nicole Byer]

You said the constable was sleeping on the dock.

[Smitty]

He was, to make sure nobody pinched his gear.

[Nicole Byer]

Wouldn't he have heard the shots?

[Smitty]

It wouldn't surprise me.

[Constable Herold]

It wouldn't surprise me if someone stopped that moth he used for good.

[Narrator]

Smitty.

[Smitty]

Oh, it's Mr.

[Narrator]

Carver.

[Smitty]

I beg your pardon, Mr.

[Narrator]

Carver.

[Smitty]

Did I happen to mention your name?

[Constable Herold]

You hadn't better.

[Nicole Byer]

As for you, mister, talking to me.

[Constable Herold]

I'd advise you to mind your own business and get that mangy dog out of here.

[Narrator]

As Red Carver kicked King, the sergeant sprang to his feet and swung hard. His fist connected solidly with Red's jaw. Red staggered back against the bar. And then with a roar, he charged the sergeant, and the fight was ours. We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Say, if you fellas and girls ever got lost in the bleak, blizzardy Yukon wilderness and ran out of food, you'd be mighty glad if you suddenly came upon a trapper's food cache. Whoa, ho, you huskies. Ho, there. Hey, here's a trapper's food cache. Boy, wouldn't it be wonderful if he had a supply of the cereal? Shot from guns. Drop them guns. I got you covered. Oh, thank goodness you're here to help us out. Don't fool me. Drop them guns, you thieving critters. We're travelers. We've lost our way and run out of food. But them guns. Why, I was just wishing you could give us some heaping bowls of the breakfast cereal. Shot from guns. Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice Breakfast cereal? Yep, the swellest ready to serve breakfast cereals you ever tasted. But they're actually shot from guns? Yes, sir. The choice sun ripened premium grains of rice or wheat are loaded into huge guns. Then they're exploded, and out come big, giant grains up to eight times normal Size. They're magnified, crispified and shot through and through with bang up nut like flavor. Say, I reckon I'd better stew some in my food cache during the fur trapping season. Oh, they're mighty nourishing for breakfast, lunch or supper. Quaker puffed wheat and Quaker puffed rice furnish added food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron. Well, I'll sure get me some next time I go to town. That's what you fellas and girls ought to do. Remember too, Quaker puffed rice and Quaker puffed wheat are the ones shot from guns. Now to continue. The sergeant didn't realize that the way in which the fight was taking place was owned by Bart Major. That a number of his henchmen were in the crowd that circled the sergeant in red. But if he had known, he wouldn't have had time to give it any thought. He was too completely occupied with stopping Red's bull like rushing. Red wasn't observing any rules and was only looking for an opportunity to kick and gouge. But the sergeant had fought rough and tumble fighters before. Any straight rights and lefts forced the burly outlaw to keep his distance. Finally, Red began to weaken. The sergeant saw his chance. He stepped in and drove a terrific left to the solar plexus. Red's face twisted with pain and his guard dropped the next instant with all the force he could put behind it. The sergeant's right landed squarely on Red's jaw. The outlaw staggered a step or two and dropped to the floor. Then Red's friends began to close in. Warned of the danger by King. The sergeant backed against the wall. Then a voice rang out from the end of the cafe. All right, that's enough. Bart Major was standing in the door of his office. At his command, the place became silent.

[Expedia Voice]

There's been enough furniture broken in here. You handled yourself well, stranger.

[Nicole Byer]

Think so?

[Expedia Voice]

Yeah. You're the first man in Skagway to give Red Carver a bidding. I might be able to use you.

[Nicole Byer]

How?

[Expedia Voice]

I'm not sure. Why don't you drop around tonight and we'll talk it over.

[Nicole Byer]

Any particular time then you're interested? I may be. I hear you rule the roost here in town.

[Expedia Voice]

You recognize me? What's your name?

[Nicole Byer]

Jackson will do.

[Expedia Voice]

Jackson it is. Make it about 10 o' clock, eh?

[Nicole Byer]

10 o' clock it is.

[Expedia Voice]

Until then.

[Nicole Byer]

Come on, boy.

[Narrator]

Go Red. Fog rolled in from the sea that night. When the Northern Star steamed into the harbor. She dropped anchor offshore. The sergeant watched the progress from the dock in Front of Bart Major's cafe.

[Nicole Byer]

Waiting for clearer weather to tie up. King Skagway can certainly use that company of marines he's carrying. Well, come on, boy. Time to keep our appointment with Major.

[Narrator]

The sergeant crossed the street to the cafe. The place was filled to capacity. As he threaded his way through the crowd to Major's office, someone pulled up his arm.

[Smitty]

Jackson.

[Nicole Byer]

Oh, hello, Smithy.

[Smitty]

Sit down here a minute.

[Nicole Byer]

All right.

[Smitty]

I found out something this afternoon. On the night the Portland Bell docked two weeks ago, there were two murders, not one.

[Nicole Byer]

The passenger with all the money. And who else?

[Smitty]

Granger, the bloke with the money, and your friend, Constable Herold.

[Nicole Byer]

Smitty. Do you have any proof of that?

[Smitty]

Only his body, that's all. Stripped of his clout that it was and washed ashore on the beach. A dying Men who found it are holding off the burial until the Marines arrive.

[Nicole Byer]

But, Smithy, a body that's been in the water two weeks. How could anyone identify it?

[Smitty]

There was a chain around the wrist with the man's name on it. Constable Held, Northwest Mounted Police. Oh, now, mate, you gonna join hands with the man who murdered your friend?

[Nicole Byer]

There's absolutely nothing to connect Bart Major with the killing.

[Smitty]

You have my word.

[Nicole Byer]

That isn't enough. Excuse me, Sweeney, where you going? To keep my appointment with Major.

[Smitty]

After what I've told you?

[Nicole Byer]

To play his game, Smithy, until I can start playing my own.

[Smitty]

Ah, now I get it. Well, it's a mighty dangerous game if you ask me. But the best of luck to you, Jackson.

[Nicole Byer]

Thanks, Smithy. Come on.

[Narrator]

Hey, who's that?

[Nicole Byer]

Jackson.

[Narrator]

Still got that dog with you?

[Nicole Byer]

He'll not make any trouble if you don't ever mind the dog, Red.

[Expedia Voice]

Come in, Jackson.

[Narrator]

As the bolt clicked behind him, the sergeant noticed another door on the far side of the room. A door that led to the outside. He pulled the chair from the wall and sat down.

[Nicole Byer]

Well, Major, I'm here.

[Expedia Voice]

Red doesn't think you should be trusted, Jackson.

[Nicole Byer]

Why not?

[Expedia Voice]

He heard you and Smitty talking about a shooting this afternoon.

[Nicole Byer]

He heard Smitty talking? Smitty likes to talk. I don't have the same feeling. Glad to hear it.

[Expedia Voice]

You're a sourdough, aren't you?

[Nicole Byer]

I spent last winter on the Klondike. Yes.

[Expedia Voice]

And you know the trail from here.

[Nicole Byer]

To Dawson well as anyone, I suppose. Good.

[Expedia Voice]

I can use you. I'm leaving Skagway in a few days.

[Nicole Byer]

For Dawson?

[Expedia Voice]

Yeah.

[Nicole Byer]

Will you be able to cross the border?

[Expedia Voice]

I believe so. After I've changed my appearance a little. Yes, who said?

[Constable Herold]

Duke. What's he doing here?

[Expedia Voice]

Let him in.

[Narrator]

A man wearing the uniform of the Northwest Mounted Police stormed through the door, his gun drawn. Duke Halloran. The same man who'd been accepted as Constable Herald at White Pass.

[Constable Herold]

Now, this is where you came the bartender's description. I thought it must be you. Sergeant, meet Sergeant Preston. Bart. I made a slip last night about the name of the tailor at Northwest. Monitored headquarters, and the sergeant caught me in it.

[Nicole Byer]

How'd you find out you'd made a slip, Duke?

[Constable Herold]

I checked with Downey. I said, that old fella in the supply room at headquarters, you know. And he said, john Wilkes. And I said, yeah, Too bad we don't have someone as handy with a needle up here. And I knew you'd tricked me last night. Then I found out you disappeared from the post, but I couldn't find out where you'd gone until I talked with a cook. Seen you heading down the Trail of Skagway wearing a check shirt, corduroy trousers and boots. That was enough for me, Bart. I knew the whole deal was queer and I'd have to clear out. I slipped away as soon as it was dark, and I came straight here to warn you.

[Expedia Voice]

So this is the much touted Sergeant Preston.

[Nicole Byer]

And Duke is the Duke Halloran, who made friends with Constable Herold on board the Portland Belle and who thought he'd learned enough about the Northwest Mounted Police to take the constable's place.

[Expedia Voice]

Well, it might have worked. Duke might have been able to get me into the Yukon if you hadn't been so smart.

[Narrator]

Sergeant rose from his chair. As he did so, he touched King's head, and the great dog sensed the command in his master's fingertips. He moved slowly along the wall toward Duke, who still had his revolver leveled at the sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

I wonder if Duke realizes that by appearing at the post in a dead man's clothes, he's tied himself in with a constable's murder.

[Constable Herold]

I didn't have anything to do with that.

[Expedia Voice]

Get up, Sergeant. Can't even prove the constable's dead, let alone that he was murdered. Where's the corpse, Sergeant?

[Nicole Byer]

The sea has been known to give up its dead.

[Constable Herold]

Hey, Bart. Someone must have seen us.

[Nicole Byer]

You killed Granger for his money. When Constable Herold found you robbing him, you killed him, too. And you had the brilliant idea of sending Duke to White Pass in his place.

[Expedia Voice]

Even if you could prove that, Sergeant, you couldn't do anything about it. You have no authority here. That's why I haven't ordered Duke to put a bullet through you.

[Constable Herold]

What are we gonna do with him? We can't just let him walk out of here.

[Nicole Byer]

No.

[Expedia Voice]

There are better places for an execution.

[Nicole Byer]

Killing King.

[Narrator]

At the sergeant's command, King leaped at Duke, and as the dog's jaws closed on the gunman's wrist, his gun clattered to the floor. In the same instant, the sergeant knocked the lamp from Bart's desk, plunging the room into darkness. Then he threw open the outside door and with King at his heels, ran into the foggy night. By the time he reached the front of the cafe, Bart, Red and Duke were after him. And their shouts brought more of Bart's men out of the cafe. The sergeant ran straight across the street and out on the pier, shedding his outer clothes as he ran. Luck was against him, for a strong gust of wind blew away the fog. Just as he was about to dive into the water, Bart and his men saw him. The sergeant hit the water with King at his side, and they started swimming toward the dim blur of light that marked the ship at anchor in the harbor. Once more, the fog closed open. The sergeant felt they had made good their escape. When he heard the creak of oar locks and the splash of oars behind them. The sergeant stopped swimming and treaded water.

[Nicole Byer]

They can't see us, but they can hear us. King. Back to shore, boy.

[Expedia Voice]

Back.

[Narrator]

The sergeant took a surface dive and began to swim underwater. For a moment, King hesitated, and then he understood what was expected of him. He was supposed to lead the men in the boat away from the sergeant. He barked and began swimming back to shore on a long diagonal. The sergeant swam underwater until his lungs were bursting. Then he shot to the surface. Treading water, he listened. He heard King's bark and then the voices of Bart's men much closer to shore.

[Nicole Byer]

They're following King. I'm not worried, boy. They'll never catch you on a night like this.

[Narrator]

The sergeant struck out for the ship once more. Meanwhile, King, on his way into shore, changed his direction whenever the boat drew close to him, then announced his new course by barking when he had widened the gap between himself and the outlaw. But they were close behind him when he finally scrambled up a stony beach and raced away toward the center of town.

[Constable Herold]

Preston will try to make it a white pass now.

[Expedia Voice]

May go to his hotel first to get some dry clothes. You and I'll go there, Red.

[Constable Herold]

Sure, Duke.

[Expedia Voice]

Pick up some men at the cafe and put a guard on the trail of white paths.

[Narrator]

Right.

[Expedia Voice]

Come on, Red.

[Narrator]

An hour later, there were only a few men in Bart's cafe when the sergeant strolled in with King at his side. The sergeant was wearing a blue shirt and dungarees. He dropped into a chair beside Smitty.

[Smitty]

Why have you come back here, Sergeant?

[Nicole Byer]

So you've found out who I am, Smitty.

[Smitty]

The whole town knows it by now. Oh, you were lucky to get away once. Do you think you can do it again?

[Nicole Byer]

I don't see any sign of Bart or Red or Duke Halloran.

[Smitty]

They're out looking for you. And there goes the bartender out the door. He'll tell him you're here.

[Nicole Byer]

I hope so.

[Smitty]

Hope so? They mean to kill you.

[Nicole Byer]

Oh, I doubt if they'll commit murder before this many witnesses.

[Smitty]

They'll force you to leave with them and then they.

[Nicole Byer]

I'll tell you a secret, Smitty.

[Smitty]

What's that?

[Nicole Byer]

The marines have landed yet?

[Smitty]

Don't say.

[Narrator]

Ten minutes later, Bart, Red and Duke burst into the cafe. Their guns were drawn and they headed straight for the sergeant.

[Expedia Voice]

On your feet.

[Narrator]

Mysterious.

[Nicole Byer]

Why? I'm not going anywhere.

[Expedia Voice]

You're coming with us.

[Nicole Byer]

I don't think so. There's someone in your office who has different ideas.

[Narrator]

Captain, they're here. Door of the office open and the young captain entered the cafe, followed by a squad of marines.

[Nicole Byer]

May I present Captain Marshall, United States Marines.

[Narrator]

Disarm the men. No, wait a minute.

[Constable Herold]

Wait for what? The authority of the President. I'm placing Skagway under martial law. My first official act will be to.

[Narrator]

Arrest you and Carver and Halloran for.

[Constable Herold]

The murder of John Granger and Constable Herold.

[Narrator]

We'll be placed in irons aboard the.

[Constable Herold]

Northern Star until we find a suitable.

[Narrator]

Building to use as a jail.

[Constable Herold]

Take them away, men. I'll see you in the morning, Sergeant.

[Nicole Byer]

Many thanks, Captain.

[Smitty]

Well, Smitty, it's well indeed.

[Nicole Byer]

As the saying goes, the marines have landed and the situation is well in hand. I can only end it. This case is closed.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. V, A L U E. Value. Yes, it spells value for the whole family when there's Quaker puffed wheat or Quaker puffed rice on the breakfast table. It's the economical deluxe breakfast treat for the whole family. Served with milk or cream and luscious fruit. Only choice, premium flavor. Rich grains are good enough for Quaker puffed rice and Quaker popped wheat. They're the good natural grains with a toasty sun ripened flavor that old Mother Nature put into them. As you mothers know, some of your family like their cereal not so sweet. Some like it ever so sweet. And that's the beauty of Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat. Your family can sweeten them with sugar just the way they like them. And when it comes to food value, every bowlful gives your family extra food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron. Remember too, Quaker makes the one shot from guns exploded up to eight times normal size. And when you open the big red and blue package with a sealed inner lining, notice that every plump grain is crisp as can be. So in these days, when value means so much, get both Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat for a delicious breakfast the whole family loves to eat. And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Nicole Byer]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty, Inspector.

[Inspector]

Sergeant, we've had word that Slim Carson and Sam Raybot have been seen going toward the town of Little Port.

[Nicole Byer]

Those two have been wanted for a long time. I'll go after them immediately, sir.

[Inspector]

You'll have to move fast. If they're in Little Port, they'll probably head for the border. They reach it, they'll escape punishment for their crimes.

[Nicole Byer]

I'll do my best to capture them, sir.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston doesn't know that the outlaws anticipate pursuit. A carefully planned robbery is time to kill the Mountie, leaving them free to make their escape. 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 Enterprises, directed by Fred Flowerday and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at this same time by Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice, the breakfast cereal shot from guns.

[H]

Hello folks. This is your friend Aunt Jemima. I know you like my extra light Aunt Yamama pancakes, but for a change of flavor, I know you'll also like my tangy buckwheat mix. Mm hm. Just add milk and you'll bake the most wonderful buckwheat cakes with just the right amount of old time buckwheat goodness. Not a speck too little or too much and light. My buckwheat cakes are so light and digestible, children can just eat and eat for variety. Try both kinds of my my pancake mix for fluffy light Aunt Jemima pancakes and my buckwheat mix for golden Angemima buckwheats. Remember, there's nothing more tempting in this whole wide world than Aunt Jemima's Buckwheat's Light. And say, why don't you try some today?

[Narrator]

Listen, fellas and girls, have you joined the March of Dimes? Well, your dime counts. Your dime is one way to help crippled boys and girls walk the way you do. So get that dime out of your pocket. Have it ready to give today. For that's the way to join the 1952 March of Dimes. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Pop Wheat and Quaker Popped Rice. So long. Listen tomorrow at the same time to the Green Hornet brought to you by the drink that makes you feel fresh again, delicious Orange Crush. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System. Sam Foreign.

[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.

[Narrator]

Become one.

[Andrew Rines]

Of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Technogod who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739. This episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

Sam.