The Young Camper | Challenge of the Yukon (05-15-52)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: The Young Camper | Challenge of the Yukon (05-15-52)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Broadcast: May 15, 1952
Podcast Release Date: February 4, 2026

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Episode Overview

In this episode, Andrew Rhynes presents a digitally restored broadcast of "Challenge of the Yukon: The Young Camper." This classic radio drama follows Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police and his loyal dog King as they unravel the mystery behind a series of robberies near Whitehorse in the Yukon. The episode blends suspense, adventure, and heartwarming moments, especially focusing on young Johnny Saybrook and his dreams of camping, which unexpectedly become pivotal in solving the case.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene in the Yukon Wilderness

• [01:36–03:56]
  • The episode opens with the atmospheric sounds and introduction of Sergeant Preston and his dog King—heroes of the wild Yukon.
• Narrator: "Gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild Northwest... Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches..." (01:36)

2. The Ghost Cabin Legend

• [03:56–05:25]
  • Old prospector Hank shares a chilling encounter with a "ghost" at a deserted cabin, stoking local fears.
• Hank: "On the way here...I saw a flickering light and a face appeared at one of the windows. Then the light went out. I'm telling you, it gave me such a start I galloped all the way to town." (04:41)

3. Life at the Saybrook Cabin

• [05:28–06:56]
  • Jack and Betsy Saybrook discuss the isolation of their only child, Johnny, who plays at camping in the nearby pine grove, wishing for real gear.
• Betsy: "Poor Johnny. He's rather lonesome without playmates... as long as he finds something to occupy his time, I'm satisfied." (06:13)

4. The Robbery Plot Unfolds

• [07:07–10:13]
  • Sergeant Preston investigates recent robberies; meanwhile, a gang plans their biggest heist—the mining office payroll. They exploit the legend of the ghost cabin to cover their tracks.
• Gang member: "Reckon the ghost will keep folks away from the hideout, so we'll be safe there, too." (11:00)

5. Johnny's Night in the Rain

• [11:18–12:24]
  • Johnny sneaks out to sleep in his makeshift tent. Rain wakes him, and he overhears the gang arriving at the pine grove, mentioning their safety in the storm and "the ghost" scaring people away.
• Johnny (internal): "A ghost was with them. Maybe they're all ghosts of outlaws or something!" (12:14)

6. The Mounties Piece Together Clues

• [12:24–21:20]
  • Sergeant Preston and the constable investigate the robbery, learning from a witness that masked men fled toward the cliff trail. At the Saybrook home, Johnny's story about overhearing "ghosts" begins to make sense to Sergeant Preston.
• Sergeant Preston: "I think you've put us on the right track... If it proves out, I'll bring you a present—whatever you want most." (21:05)

7. Discovery at the Ghost Cabin

• [21:29–24:41]
  • Preston and the constable follow faint hoofprints to the ghost cabin, where they discover a hidden door behind a rug, leading to a cave used by the gang—a near-perfect hideout.
• Constable: "The marks go from the door to that back wall... Hey, it does look that way. But who'd bring a horse—?" (23:23)
• Preston: "We'll see. Anyway, I'm convinced we're on the right track." (22:09)

8. Confession and Capture of the Gang

• [24:43–26:42]
  • The gang, confident in their lair, reveal how the "ghost" story was an accidental diversion they perpetuated. Preston and the constable burst in, quickly subduing the criminals.
• Sid: "I came by, looked in the window and saw that old fella Stebbins coming out from behind the wall rug... the old coot was so scared he dropped dead." (24:43)
• Sergeant Preston (arresting): "Sometimes even a ghost talks too much. Constable, I recognize this one—he's Sid Krebs, an ex-convict." (26:12)
• Sergeant Preston: "For once, even King couldn't trail you. Krebs, we have a young camper who was scared out by ghosts to thank for your capture." (26:24)

9. Johnny’s Reward – Dreams Fulfilled

• [26:46–28:30]
  • Preston visits the Saybrooks, bringing Johnny his promised gifts: a real prospector’s tent and camp stove.
• Johnny (excited): "Oh, gosh... A real tent, just big enough for a boy like me! Oh, golly... A camp stove!" (27:41, 27:53)
• Sergeant Preston: "Now you have a camp stove and a real tent all your own. You could stay in that tent no matter how hard it rains." (28:13)
• Constable: "Johnny earned them, Jack. If he hadn't been a determined young camper, we might not have caught those crooks." (28:30)

10. Closing and Next Adventure Tease

• [31:11–32:27]
  • Sergeant Preston receives his next assignment—tracking Glen Deming, suspected in a payroll robbery—setting up an entirely new adventure.

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Notable Quotes and Memorable Moments

• Sergeant Preston (on camping): "There's nothing like the thrill of pitching a tent under the open sky. And nothing tastes as good as food that's been cooked out in the open air. That's an experience every boy and girl should have." (14:56)
• Johnny Saybrook (imagining outlaws as ghosts): "A ghost was with them. Maybe they're all ghosts of outlaws or something!" (12:14)
• Sergeant Preston (to Johnny): "If we catch these crooks, I'll see that you get them [a tent and camp stove]." (21:20)
• Sergeant Preston (arresting): "For once, even King couldn't trail you. Krebs, we have a young camper who was scared out by ghosts to thank for your capture." (26:24)

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Important Timestamps

• 01:36–03:56: Episode opening, Yukon atmosphere, setup
• 04:41: Prospector Hank relates his ghost cabin sighting
• 05:49–06:56: Saybrook family introduces Johnny's camping wish
• 08:52–10:13: The gang prepares the mining office heist
• 11:38–12:24: Johnny’s nighttime adventure, overhears villains
• 18:08–21:20: Preston and constable visit Saybrooks, Johnny clues them in
• 21:38–24:41: Preston discovers secret hideout at ghost cabin
• 24:43–26:42: Capture and confession of gang
• 26:46–28:30: Johnny receives his tent and stove, happy ending
• 31:11–32:27: Preview of next adventure

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Episode Tone and Style

The episode retains the rousing, wholesome, and suspenseful tone characteristic of mid-century radio dramas. There’s an emphasis on family, honesty, courage, and the thrill of outdoor adventure. The dialogue is earnest, and both peril and reward are depicted with innocence fitting a family audience.

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For New Listeners

This episode is a classic Western radio mystery with charming campfire flair, where a child’s sense of adventure ends up cracking a grown-up case. Listeners new and old will enjoy the mix of suspense, warmheartedness, and the educative, upright spirit of the golden age of radio.

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End of Summary

Transcript

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[Podcast Host (Andrew Rines)]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. You can find more western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now as.

[Narrator]

Gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild Northwest. Quaker popped wheat and Quaker Popped rice. The breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the northwest blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Unking on your husky gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches back to the days of the Gold rush with Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon.

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[Narrator]

Say fellas and girls for a delicious breakfast treat tomorrow morning. Pour yourselves a heaping bowl full of taste tempting Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice, the ones shot from guns. And listen. Big news is coming on this program in just a little while. Get paper and pencil ready. Keep listening. The sky was overcast, but the night was dark and gloomy when an old prospector entered the trading post in Whitehorse in the Yukon territory.

[Constable]

Hi, Hank.

[Narrator]

Just get into town?

[Hank (Prospector)]

Yep. Got a late start, Pat. But I'm running out of supplies so I had to ride in to get some more. Here's the least.

[Constable]

Right. You have a dark ride ahead of.

[Hank (Prospector)]

You if you're going back tonight. Oh, not me. I'm staying in town to. Mornin.

[Sergeant Preston]

What's the matter?

[Hank (Prospector)]

You scared of the dark?

[Constable]

Yeah. You've gone home at night before.

[Hank (Prospector)]

Maybe so, but I'm not going along that cliff trail this night.

[Constable]

What's the matter, Hank?

[Narrator]

Something scary on the way to town?

[Hank (Prospector)]

Well, as a matter of fact Pat, something did make me sort of nervous.

[Narrator]

Well, tell us about it.

[Hank (Prospector)]

Well, you all know about that deserted cabin that sets against the cliff about two miles out.

[Narrator]

Say, that's the place folks call the.

[Constable]

Ghost cabin, isn't it?

[Hank (Prospector)]

Yep. I never put much stock in the stories I've heard, but on the way here, when I was passing that cabin a while ago, I saw a flickering light and a face appeared at one of the windows. And then the light went out. I'm telling you, it gave me such a start I galloped all the way to town.

[Narrator]

You must have been drinking some hard cider, Hank.

[Constable]

Yeah, you were seeing things.

[Narrator]

Nobody's been in that cabin for a couple of years.

[Hank (Prospector)]

All right, go on, laugh all you wanted. But I know what I saw. I'm not going to ride back past that goose cabin tonight. I'll pick up those supplies in the morning, Pat. And now I'm going to get room for the night.

[Constable]

So long.

[Narrator]

The cliff trail ran south from town along the base of a ridge which was spotted at intervals with low cliffs. About a mile from town, near a pine grove, Jack Saybrook, a young prospector, lived with his wife Betsy and his 10 year old son Johnny. It was the following day when Jack came to the cabin for noonday dinner. Hi, Betsy.

[Constable]

Dinner ready?

[Betsy Saybrook]

Be ready in a minute, dear.

[Constable]

I see you're setting only two places. Where's Johnny?

[Betsy Saybrook]

He's out in the pine grove playing camper. He has an old blanket.

[Constable]

What about his dinner?

[Betsy Saybrook]

Well, he wanted to roast potatoes in a campfire but I decided that would be dangerous. So he took his dinner out there to eat it.

[Constable]

What'll a youngster think of next?

[Betsy Saybrook]

Poor Johnny. He's rather lonesome without playmates. Jack, as long as he finds something to Occupy his time. I'm satisfied.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Hello, dad. Mom, I want some more food.

[Betsy Saybrook]

All right, son.

[Constable]

Look, Johnny, I. I think you'd better sit down here with us and eat the rest of your dinner.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Aw, gee, dad. I want to play camper. I'd rather go out to my tent and eat.

[Constable]

Well, have it your own way.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Gosh, I wish I had a real tent and some kind of a camp stove.

[Constable]

Things like that cost plenty of money, son. Anyhow, the only tents I've seen around town for sale have been large ones, and the camp stove they sell are too complicated for a boy to handle.

[Betsy Saybrook]

You sit down, Johnny. There's more dinner for you.

[Johnny Saybrook]

I suppose I might as well.

[Narrator]

Early that afternoon, sergeant Preston arrived in whitehorse with his great dog, Yukon king. The sergeant was talking to the constable.

[Sergeant Preston]

At mounted police headquarters. I'm here, constable, because of the report you sent. Headquarters. You found any clue to the crooks who've been operating around here since you sent that report?

[Constable]

No, I haven't, sergeant. There seems to be a small gang at work. Several robberies have taken place, but the crooks managed to get away and stay undercover.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see. None of the victims have recognized any of the.

[Constable]

No. And each of them gives a different description of the men in the gang. It seems they're always well matched when they operate.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's usually the case. I mean in reference to the descriptions. The victims are nervous and upset when a holdup takes place. Consequently, they don't seem to be very observant.

[Constable]

The only people who seem to agree are the few who've reported seeing the ghost of old stebbins out at ghost cabin on the cliff trail.

[Sergeant Preston]

I've heard some of those stories. Someone else come in with such a report?

[Constable]

Ah, yes. Old Hank, the prospector. He said last night he came by there and saw a face at the window.

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you think about it?

[Constable]

Well, his story tallies with all the others. First he saw a flickering light, then a face at the window for a moment.

[Sergeant Preston]

You think he imagined that?

[Constable]

I don't know, sergeant. I went out there this morning to investigate. I've been out there before, too. But the place is just like old Stevins left it run down. Dust all over everything. Old worn carpet on the floor. I found nothing to show anyone has used it since stevins died.

[Sergeant Preston]

I suppose old hack did imagine it after all. But it's strange that everyone's story is the same.

[Constable]

Well, it may be that having heard the first story about the ghost cabin, the others expected to see the same thing. If they Saw anything at all that's possible. Believe me, Sergeant, I investigated thoroughly. I feel certain no one is using that cabin.

[Sergeant Preston]

That case, we'll forget about it. I'll give me the details of the robberies that have taken place recently. Constable.

[Narrator]

That evening at the cafe in town, two men sat at the table talking in low voices.

[Constable]

Well, we really ought to get our biggest haul tonight, Ken. Well, we bust into the mining office and grab that payroll. Yeah, and luck is with us too, Sid. Looks like it's gonna rain before the night's over. I count on that. So as our tracks will be washed out. Jake and Frank are sitting back there waiting till we go out, then they'll follow. The horses are already hitched behind the mining office.

[Sergeant Preston]

We sure have the law worried, Sid.

[Constable]

You plan things well. Thanks. With the hideout we have, we're plenty safe. Oh, when you get a chance, just amble back and get word to the others that we'll be moving about midnight. I'll go tell them now.

[Narrator]

At midnight, four figures met behind the mining office. A few drops of rain fell as they stood waiting for orders.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now this will be easy.

[Constable]

We'll force the back window. Jake will stay out here as lookout. Kell, you're the smallest, so we boost you through the window. You unbolt the back door. Frank and I'll come in.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now do you get it? Yeah, we get it.

[Constable]

I've been inside enough to look over the safe. I got what we need to blow it with. We'll clean it out, get to the horses and separate just in case. We'll meet in the pine grove about a mile down the trail. Then we'll head for the hideout together. It's already starting to rain, so our tracks will be washed out quick.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sure.

[Constable]

All right, let's mask our faces to be on the safe side. We'll get started.

[Narrator]

A short time later, the men at the cafe just two doors in the mining office were startled by a muffled explosion. Hey, did you hear that? Sounded like an explosion. Let's look outside and see what it was. A few moments later, the crowd reached the back of the mining office. The back door stood open and a thin veil of smoke slowly floated out the doorway.

[Constable]

Great sense. Look at that. Though they must have robbed a mining officer.

[Narrator]

Let's look inside.

[Constable]

Yep.

[Narrator]

The safe has been blown open. I'm going to go tell the constable. A short time later, the two Maori's arrived at the scene of the crime. A crowd was still gathered at the back door of the mining office. And others had written by be useless.

[Sergeant Preston]

To Try to find their trail. Now, they wouldn't know which tracks to follow, even if it weren't raining.

[Constable]

Well, maybe they didn't even leave town, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's possible. We'll do all the investigating we can around town. We may find someone who saw the crooks. First, though, we'll arouse the office manager and find out how much was taken. Come on, King.

[Narrator]

That night, the boy, Johnny Saybrook, had waited until his parents were sleeping and then he had eased out of the cabin and went to sleep in his makeshift tent in the pine grove down the trail. At first, the light rain didn't disturb him. But finally, as it rained harder, the water soaked through the blanket and woke him.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Golly, I'm getting all wet. I'll have to go in the cabin quick.

[Narrator]

As Johnny started to crawl from the soaked tent, he heard horses stopping nearby in the grove. Though he couldn't see anything in the.

[Sergeant Preston]

Darkness, he heard voices.

[Constable]

Waiting long? No, Jake and I just got here.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, we're safe.

[Constable]

Because of this rain, nobody will be able to trail us. Yeah, right.

[Narrator]

Reckon the ghost will keep folks away.

[Constable]

From the hideout, so we'll be safe there, too. Let's get going.

[Narrator]

I'm getting soaked.

[Constable]

I don't feel much like a ghost right now.

[Narrator]

Well, with a Clifford roof, you'll also.

[Constable]

Be dry and comfortable.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, let's go. Get out of here.

[Constable]

Get up.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Golly. A ghost was with him. Maybe they're all ghost of outlaws or something. I better get inside quick.

[Narrator]

The following morning, Sergeant Preston entered the.

[Sergeant Preston]

Constable'S office with King.

[Constable]

Good morning, Sergeant. You left the cabin mighty early. I didn't hear you go out.

[Sergeant Preston]

I wanted to do some more inquiring about the robbery last night. Hate to think of those cooks getting away with $5,000.

[Constable]

You find out any more?

[Sergeant Preston]

I did find a man at the hotel who looked out the window when he heard the explosion. He claims he saw two masked riders come from between the buildings and head out the cliff trail.

[Constable]

Well, that's something.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, of course, we got our horses and ride out that way, but frankly, Constable, I'm stumped. The sun's out, but the rain last night was certainly in their favor.

[Constable]

Yes, it sure was.

[Sergeant Preston]

Nothing for King to go on. The tracks are washed out. But in spite of that, King and I will continue this search.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment.

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[Constable]

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[Sergeant Preston]

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[Sergeant Preston]

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[Narrator]

I'm here on the job site with Dale, who's a framing contractor. Hey, good morning. Dale traded up to Geico Commercial Auto Insurance for all his business vehicles. We're here where he needs us most. Yep, they sure are. We make it easy for him to save on all his insurance needs. All in one place with coverage that fits his business and bottom line. Oh, I shouldn't have looked down.

[Hank (Prospector)]

It's all right.

[Narrator]

We're so far up here. Look at me. Take a deep breath. I'm good. So good. Get a commercial auto insurance quote [e-mail] and see how much you could save. It feels good to Geico. Say, Sergeant Preston, isn't outdoor life one of the greatest things about being a Mountie?

[Sergeant Preston]

Why, yes, Jay. There's nothing like the thrill of pitching a tent under the open sky. And nothing tastes as good as food that's been cooked out in the open air. That's an experience every boy and girl should have.

[Narrator]

Yes, fellas and girls. And here's the most exciting news of the year. Right now, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice are offering Friends of Sergeant Preston a marvelous new waterproof prospector's tent and a genuine all metal can stove. The prospector's tent is made of sturdy, bright green plastic. It stands 4 1/2ft high, is 3ft square at the base, and has a flap to close it up. Snug and tight. It comes complete with tent pole stakes, everything you need to set it up easily in just a few minutes outdoors or in the house. And listen, this keen waterproof prospector's tent is yours. For only $1 and a box top from Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice. Now in addition, you can also get a genuine all metal camp stove that works. It's not a toy. You can really cook with it. On the top section you can fry hamburgers, hot dogs, bacon and eggs in the dutch oven. You can bake potatoes, biscuits over the broiler. You can cook cocoa, soup, beans. There's a firebox to fill with twigs, charcoal or canned heat for fuel. And you can get this complete four piece camp stove including handy combination stove, tongs and cooking fork for only 50 cents and a box top from Quaker Pop Wheat or rice. Now to get both tent and stove, the whole Sergeant Preston camping outfit, send two box tops from Quaker Puffed Wheat or Rice and $1.50. Send to Camping Outfit Box L, Chicago 77, IL. With your order you will get a little booklet that tells you how to get the most fun out of your camping outfit with tips for safe camping and cooking. What's more, if you aren't completely satisfied with your prospector's tent and camp stove, you get your money back. Remember, grocers now have special new packages of swell tasting Quaker Puffed wheat or Quaker Puffed rice with full offer details plus order blank right on the package. For the prospector's tent, send one box top and $1 for the camp stove. Send one box top and 50 cents for both tent and stove. Send two box stops and $1.50. But hurry, there's no time to lose. The supply of these Sergeant Preston camping outfits is limited. Send right away tonight to camping outfit Box L, Chicago 77, Illinois. Now to continue. Though the crooks had made a clean getaway, Sergeant Preston was determined to continue the search for them. He and the constable with King rode out the cliff trail, stopping at the few cabins along the way to make inquiries. Finally, they halted at the Saybrook place.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, ask the Saybrooks if they heard anyone pass here after midnight. Come along, King.

[Constable]

Hello, Sergeant. Hi, Constable.

[Sergeant Preston]

How are you, Jack? Come on in.

[Constable]

We've just finished breakfast, but you're in time for some coffee.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, thanks, Jack.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Good morning. I didn't expect to see a couple of Mounties coming here so early.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good morning.

[Constable]

Morning. Is there some reason why you came here, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Nothing to do with you, Jack. There was a robbery in town last night. Crooks are thought to have come out this trail. You folks notice anyone passing here after midnight?

[Betsy Saybrook]

I didn't, Sergeant. I was sleeping.

[Sergeant Preston]

So was I. I see.

[Constable]

Gosh, I'm sorry. We can't help you?

[Narrator]

Who was robbed?

[Sergeant Preston]

The mining office. $5,000.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, please mom, let me go out to my tent. I won't sneak out at night anymore. Oh, hello Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Johnny.

[Johnny Saybrook]

How are you, King?

[Betsy Saybrook]

Say hello to the constable, Johnny.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh yeah. Hello Constable.

[Constable]

Oh, hi, Johnny. I reckon when you saw King, you didn't not.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Yeah, that's right, Mom.

[Constable]

Will you please Johnny, don't pester your mother.

[Sergeant Preston]

Aw, gee, what are you so down about, Johnny?

[Betsy Saybrook]

I'll tell you, Sergeant. Johnny is being punished for sneaking out during the night to sleep in a tent he made from an old blanket. Oh, I found his clothes just soaked this morning, but I didn't know it.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Was going to rain, Mom.

[Betsy Saybrook]

That isn't the point, young man. The idea of sneaking out without telling us to sleep in that makeshift tent. Why anything might have happened.

[Sergeant Preston]

Weren't you frightened to sleep out there alone, Johnny?

[Johnny Saybrook]

Well, not at first, Sergeant. But after the rain woke me up and I was about to come inside, I got scared.

[Sergeant Preston]

What's frightened then?

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, nothing.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Johnny, answer the sergeant.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Well, I got scared when I heard the voices. I'm sure they were ghosts of outlaws or something like that.

[Constable]

Now, now, Johnny, no tall tales.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Honest Dad, I did hear him.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Johnny, you'd better go back in the other room while we talk to the sergeant and the constable.

[Sergeant Preston]

Just a minute, Betsy, if you don't mind.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Of course, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Johnny, you say you heard voices?

[Johnny Saybrook]

Uh huh. I heard horses stopping. It was in the pine grove, but it was too dark for me to see.

[Sergeant Preston]

Go on, Johnny.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Well, I heard one of them say something about they were safe enough in the rain and that nobody'd be able to trail em.

[Sergeant Preston]

I think her, Johnny. What else did you hear?

[Johnny Saybrook]

Another one said the ghost will keep folks away. Then the first one said he was getting wet and didn't feel much like a ghost. Just then I could tell there are others there too. Then they rode away and I ran into the cabin. If they were outlaw ghost, I didn't want them to come back and see me.

[Constable]

Johnny, I've heard you tell many things you've imagined, but that story really takes a cake.

[Sergeant Preston]

You'd better wait a minute, Jack. I don't think the boy did imagine it.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, I'm sure I didn't, Sergeant. I heard him as plain as anything.

[Sergeant Preston]

Constable, I think we've got something.

[Constable]

You think Johnny heard the crooks were hunting?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, I do.

[Constable]

But all that ghost talk.

[Sergeant Preston]

I have an idea about that. Johnny, I think you've put us on the right track. If it proves out that you have I'll bring you a present. Whatever you want most.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Golly, I want a real tent, a small one. And a camp stove, that's what.

[Sergeant Preston]

If we catch these cooks, I'll see that you get them. Come on, Constable. We have a job ahead of us. Let's go, King.

[Narrator]

Bye, Sergeant.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Goodbye, Sergeant. Bye, Constable.

[Narrator]

Hastily leaving the Saybrook cabin, the sergeant and the constable mounted and headed along the cliff trail away from town.

[Constable]

You seem to have a definite place in mind, Sergeant. Where are we going?

[Sergeant Preston]

To investigate the ghost cabin.

[Constable]

But I already investigated that.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'm sure Johnny heard the crooks talking last night. What he heard them say about the ghost gave me the idea that in some way this ghost people have seen at the cabin window was for the purpose of keeping folks away from there.

[Constable]

Yes, that's possible.

[Sergeant Preston]

Evidently, that cabin covers a hideout. Perhaps there's a trap door in the floor.

[Constable]

I didn't think of anything like that. It is possible.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll see. Anyway, I'm convinced we're on the right track. All we have to do is discover the secret of their hiding place.

[Narrator]

Come on, buggy, get it. The two Mounties rode the distance to the ghost cabin in record time. They stopped just around a bend and approached the place on foot.

[Sergeant Preston]

Quiet. Look, Constable. Fade out lines of hoof prints going to the cabin. Rain must have stopped before they were entirely washed out.

[Constable]

That doesn't make sense. None of the marks go away from here.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know. I see. The door is hanging on one hinge.

[Constable]

It's evident nobody's hiding in there.

[Sergeant Preston]

Soon find out. Let's go inside. Let's look around a minute.

[Narrator]

The two Mounties stood a moment looking the place over. A soiled Navajo Indian rug hung from ceiling to floor on the back wall, which was against the low cliff. A rusty stove, a couple of rickety chairs and an old table completed the furnishings.

[Sergeant Preston]

I admit, the place does look unused. Let's pull back this floor covering and see what's under here.

[Constable]

All right. That's a plank 4. There's no trap door there.

[Sergeant Preston]

Wait a minute. Look at these marks.

[Constable]

The floor has been scuffed by something.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'd say it was scuffed by horseshoes, Constable.

[Constable]

Hey, it does look that way. But who'd bring a horse?

[Sergeant Preston]

The marks go from the door to that back wall. Well, replace the matting. You know, this begins to make sense. Have your gun ready. All right, Sergeant, pull aside this wall rug. Crude door built into the back wall.

[Constable]

But the wall is built against the cliff.

[Sergeant Preston]

That door is there for a purpose. I'll Try opens into a tunnel, probably into an old mine. Follow me. Come along, King.

[Narrator]

The tunnel led into a fairly large cave in the ceiling of which there was an air vent. Crude chairs and a table along with padded sacking for bedding made it an ideal hideout for Cyd and his men. The four horses were stabled off to one side. Sid and Kell sat at the table in the cave, calling out the mine payroll into four piles. The other two men were resting on the bedding.

[Constable]

We'll split this four ways, Kel. This is our best haul we've made yet. Yeah, I reckon the law is running around in circles trying to find out.

[Sergeant Preston]

Who we are and where we went.

[Constable]

Ah, with the setup we have here, we'll be able to operate all summer. That's why I'm always telling you fellas to be sure not to disturb the dust or anything in the shaft.

[Sergeant Preston]

This is a lucky day for us.

[Constable]

When you got wise to this. Yeah, I. I came by, looked in the window and saw that old fella Stebbins coming out from behind the wall rug. You got his gold, didn't you?

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Constable]

I came in masked and the old.

[Narrator]

Coot was so scared he dropped dead.

[Constable]

With a heart attack. I went back in here and found his gold and then I left. After he was found and buried, I realized what a fine hideout this would make. Look, what gave you the idea for that ghost? Oh, that just happened. One night I heard hoofbeast just as I went into the cabin from the cave. Well, I was carrying a candle, see? I put out the candle, went to the window and looked out. The fellow passing by suddenly whipped his horse and went off flying. Well, the next day I heard the.

[Narrator]

Story he told about seeing a ghost.

[Constable]

I understand some of the men came.

[Narrator]

Out the next day to look around.

[Constable]

Yeah, but finding the shag Joseph Stebbins left. They're dusty and all. They decided a man had been imagining things. Now the money's all divided. Then I'll take my share.

[Narrator]

Hey, a couple of mounties.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, now you drop your gun.

[Narrator]

No, Jake. Frank, gun him. The two mounties and King went into action.

[Constable]

They were too fast for us.

[Narrator]

This dog away from me.

[Sergeant Preston]

You're through dunking. Watch them, fella.

[Constable]

I'll pick up the guns.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, and keep them covered. I'll take the cash. Mining company's sack still on the table.

[Constable]

King sure is well trained. He jumped one of them just as we gunned the other two things.

[Sergeant Preston]

Learned to jump a man when he goes for a gun. There I have all the Cash. Nice hideout you have here. Practically perfect.

[Constable]

How'd you find out?

[Sergeant Preston]

Sometimes even a ghost talks too much. Constable, I recognize this one. He's Sid Krebs, an ex convict.

[Constable]

Yeah, and you're Sergeant Preston. Must have been that dog.

[Narrator]

No.

[Sergeant Preston]

For once, even King couldn't trail you. Krebs, we have a young camper who was scared out by ghosts to thank for your capture.

[Constable]

I don't get it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, that doesn't matter. We arrest all of you in the name of the Crown for robbery. Let's get them to jail, Constable.

[Narrator]

That night, Sergeant Preston and King stopped in front of the Saybrook cabin.

[Betsy Saybrook]

Boy.

[Sergeant Preston]

Buggy. Oh, boy. Wait till I unload these gifts for Johnny King, then we'll go in. All right, fella.

[Constable]

Well, Sergeant Preston and King, come in.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thanks, Jack. Has Johnny gone to bed, Jack?

[Constable]

Why, he's getting ready for bed right now.

[Narrator]

Johnny.

[Constable]

Betsy.

[Betsy Saybrook]

We have company, Sergeant, did you catch the crooks?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, Betsy, we did.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, golly, Sergeant, were they real crooks like you said?

[Sergeant Preston]

Very real, Johnny. There aren't such things as ghosts.

[Johnny Saybrook]

But they said.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know, son. They pretended there was a ghost at old Stebbins cabin to keep folks from going there. They had a very clever hideout in the cave which was entered through the cabin.

[Constable]

Well, I'll be doggone.

[Johnny Saybrook]

What's wrapped in those packages, Sergeant?

[Sergeant Preston]

Well, why don't you open them and see, Johnny?

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, gosh. Oh, dad, look. A real tent. Just big enough for a boy like me. Oh, golly.

[Sergeant Preston]

Open the other package.

[Johnny Saybrook]

All right, Sergeant. A camp stove.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, and that's yours, too. It's a small compact stove on which you can cook lots of things, Johnny. And what's more, it's safe for a youngster to use.

[Betsy Saybrook]

You know, I could use that myself in the kitchen.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Oh, no, Mom. This is my camping stove.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right, Johnny. Now you have a camp stove and a real tent all your own. You could stay in that tent no matter how hard it rains.

[Constable]

Sergeant, it's mighty fine of you to bring those to the boy. They mean a lot to him. Why, any boy'd like to own a tent and camp stove like that.

[Sergeant Preston]

Johnny earned them, Jack. If he hadn't been a determined young camper, we might not have caught those crooks. And now that they're in jail, the cash returned to the mining company, and Johnny has what he wanted most. This case is closed.

[Narrator]

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

[Podcast Host (Andrew Rines)]

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

[Narrator]

Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice are the ones shot from guns. Yes, they're exploded up to eight times normal size to make them extra crisp and tender. What a luscious flav refreshing breakfast. Treat these spring mornings with cool milk or cream and fresh strawberries or sliced bananas. Enjoy a bowl of crisp, fresh Quaker Puffed Wheat or rice tomorrow and listen. Special new packages are at Grocers now offering the Sergeant Preston Camping Outfit. Be sure to send right away for your Prospector's Tent, camp stove or both. You can get the wonderful new waterproof Prospector's Tent of sturdy plastic and ready to set up outdoors or indoors for only $1 and a box top from Quaker Puffed Wheat or Quaker Puffed Rice. You can get the complete four piece all metal camp stove to cook hot dogs, baked potatoes, fry eggs, a genuine camp stove for only 50 cents and a box top from Quaker Puffed Wheat or Rice. Or you can get both tent and stove for two box tops and only $1.50. Send to Camping Outfit Box L, Chicago 77, Illinois. Don't wait and miss out. Send now tonight to Camping Outfit box L, Chicago 77, Illinois. And now, here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty.

[Narrator]

Inspector Sergeant.

[Constable]

A telegrapher in Selkirk known as Pop was shot yesterday. The telegraph office and the express office are combined. Motive was robbery, a payroll of 20,000.

[Sergeant Preston]

Do you suspect anyone, sir?

[Constable]

Yes. The young express agent is missing. I want you to find him and bring him in for questioning. His name is Ned Deming.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know Ned Deming. I'll do my best, sir.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston doesn't realize that in going after Deming, he's playing into the hands of a ruthless and clever killer. Be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Muir Incorporated, directed by Fred Flowerday and supervised by Charles D. Livingston. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday on Thursday by Quaker Popped Wheat and Quaker Popped Rice. The breakfast cereals shot from guns.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Only.

[Narrator]

Quaker Pako 10 has all your family cereal favorites. A regular cereal pantry that's Quaker Pako 10. Six different delicious ready to serve cereals. Ten crisp fresh individual servings. Pako 10 and only Pako 10 has wheat and rice shot from guns and Pako 10 alone has the individual packages with the cellophane windows. There's both an inner and outer cellophane wrap to doubly protect that day. It's made. Christmas Pick up a pack of Pako 10 at your grocer's tomorrow. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Popped Rice. So long. Listen tomorrow at this 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.

[Johnny Saybrook]

Sam foreign.

[Podcast Host (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.

[Sergeant Preston]

Become one.

[Podcast Host (Andrew Rines)]

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

[Johnny Saybrook]

Sam.