Thin Ice | Challenge of the Yukon (01-28-54)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns – "Thin Ice" | Challenge of the Yukon (01-28-54)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Date: May 6, 2026
Original Air Date (Drama): January 28, 1954

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored presentation of "Thin Ice" from the classic radio drama Challenge of the Yukon. The story follows Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police, his lead dog Yukon King, and prospector Pete Madden on a thrilling and treacherous journey through the Yukon wilderness. The episode explores themes of trust, betrayal, survival, and justice amid the harsh conditions and dream-fueled dangers of the gold rush frontier.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene in the Yukon ([01:36])

• The show opens with a dramatic narration introducing the backdrop—the snow-covered frontiers of the Yukon during the gold rush.
• Quaker Puffed Wheat and Rice cereals are pitched with energetic mid-century flair, anchoring the nostalgia of the program.

2. Pete Madden and Concho Coleman’s Dilemma ([04:25])

• Pete Madden and Concho Coleman discuss their rich gold claim and the struggle to expand their operation.
• Pete prepares to trek to Dawson for mining machinery, carrying $5,000 in gold.
• “One of us has to go and get the mining machinery we ordered.” – Pete Madden ([04:51])
• Concho expresses concern about Pete traveling on foot alone, foreshadowing hardship.

3. Pete Visits Spike Marlin ([07:23])

• After a grueling week, Pete reaches the shack of his former partner, Spike Marlin, intending to rest before continuing.
• The dialogue establishes their history and the divergent fates since their last adventure together.
• “Your luck sure has changed, Pete. You never had a dollar to lend anyone.” – Spike Marlin ([09:10])

4. Seeds of Betrayal ([10:04])

• Pete, exhausted, falls deeply asleep. Spike, realizing Pete is carrying a fortune in gold, formulates a plan to rob him.
• Spike checks Pete’s pack, stealthily switches the gold pouch with worthless metal pieces ([13:31]).
  • Memorable moment: “Gold. Thousands of dollars worth.” – Spike Marlin’s awed, greedy whisper ([13:31])
• Spike advises Pete (dishonestly) to cross the lake directly, despite dangerous ice ([11:27]).

5. The Thin Ice Ordeal ([14:11])

• Sergeant Preston and Constable Dick Raymond note the dangerous lake ice as Pete starts crossing, warned too late.
• “We’ve got to stop him before he reaches the thin ice.” – Sergeant Preston ([14:51])
• The ice gives way beneath Pete; he nearly drowns, saved only by Yukon King’s bravery ([18:46]).
• “We’re coming, King!” – Sergeant Preston ([18:46])

6. The Discovery of the Theft ([20:10])

• Safe and warming up in the police post, Pete realizes he’s been robbed when his “gold” pouch rattles with scrap instead.
  • “Where’s my gold? Then I’ve been robbed. And only one man could have stolen my gold.” ([21:33])
• Sergeant Preston suspects Spike, seeing the deception: “With a police post across the lake. He wanted you to die a supposedly accidental death.” ([22:09])

7. The Manhunt Begins ([22:25])

• Preston and Pete set out on Spike’s trail, with Yukon King leading the pursuit via scent ([23:01]).
• The journey is brutal—a dog lames itself, but determination drives them onward.
• Pete worries about Spike targeting his partner Concho, as the fugitive seems headed toward their claim ([25:01]).

8. Final Confrontation ([26:20])

• Closing in near the claim, Spike ambushes Preston and Pete, shots are exchanged, and Concho stumbles onto the shootout ([26:32]).
• Spike is wounded by Preston and quickly apprehended.
• “[To Spike] You’re under arrest in the name of the Crown, Spike.” – Sergeant Preston ([28:17])
• Pete confronts his old friend and former partner about the betrayal and theft ([28:38]).
  • “Why, that dirty lion buzzard. To think he’d turn on me, steal my gold, connive to kill me. Why didn’t he just shoot me and be done with it?” – Pete Madden ([22:03])

9. Justice Served, Case Closed ([28:49])

• Preston tends Spike’s wound and prepares him for transport to Dawson for trial ([28:47]).
• Pete, now reassured and grateful, closes the adventure with a hopeful note:
  • “Oh, my troubles are over now that I’m traveling with Sergeant Preston.” ([28:59])
• Sergeant Preston: “This case is closed.” ([29:04])

10. Teaser for the Next Adventure ([32:18])

• Brief preview for the following episode, hinting at more danger and adventure for Preston and King.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Spike’s Greed Revealed:
  “Gold. Thousands of dollars worth.” – Spike Marlin ([13:31])

• Point of No Return:
  “It’s less than a mile straight across the lake. You’ll save about 10 miles by crossing on the ice.” – Spike Marlin ([11:27])

• Sergeant Preston’s Determination:
  “We’ve got to stop him before he reaches the thin ice.” ([14:51])
  “With a police post across the lake. He wanted you to die a supposedly accidental death.” ([22:09])
  “You’re under arrest in the name of the Crown, Spike.” ([28:17])

• Pete’s Lament and Resolve:
  “Why, that dirty lion buzzard. To think he’d turn on me, steal my gold, connive to kill me. Why didn’t he just shoot me and be done with it?” ([22:03])
  “Oh, my troubles are over now that I’m traveling with Sergeant Preston.” ([28:59])

• Heroism from King The Dog:
  King braves freezing water to save Pete, a classic action scene.

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Important Timestamps

• [01:36] – Classic intro and setup of Yukon setting and characters.
• [04:25] – Pete and Concho plan; Pete prepares to set out.
• [07:23] – Arrival at Spike’s cabin; friendship and envy established.
• [13:00] – Spike’s theft and treachery.
• [14:31] – Dangerous lake crossing begins.
• [18:46] – Pete breaks through the ice; Yukon King’s dramatic rescue.
• [21:10] – Discovery of the swapped gold and confrontation.
• [22:25] – Pursuit of Spike Marlin initiated.
• [26:20] – Final confrontation: shootout, arrest, and justice.
• [29:04] – “This case is closed.” Sergeant Preston’s wrap-up.
• [32:18] – Preview for the next adventure.

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Tone and Atmosphere

The episode is steeped in the suspenseful, rugged, and dramatic style of golden-age radio dramas, with characters speaking in straightforward, frontier language. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, perseverance, and the relentless quest for justice are delivered in classic “Yukon” fashion. The restored audio truly brings to life the howling wind, crunch of boots on snow, and excitement of heroic action.

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Summary

"Thin Ice" is a thrilling tale of hardship, greed, betrayal—and the indomitable spirit required to survive and do right in the Yukon wilds. The episode shines through its lively production, memorable performances, and rich soundscape. Old-time radio fans and newcomers alike are treated to a classic adventure, freshly rendered for modern ears.

For further Western adventures, visit otrwesterns.com!

Transcript

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[Doug]

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[Pete Madden]

Foreign.

[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 now.

[Narrator]

As gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the wild northwest, Quaker Puff Wheat and Quaker Pop Rice. The breakfast cereal shot from guns presents Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon Cage, swiftest and strongest lead dog of the northwest breaking the trail for sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Un king on your husband 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 Puff Wheat and Quaker Puff Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puff's wheat. It's neat and when you hear the

[Pete Madden]

shooting, you're dern tootin.

[Narrator]

The Quaker makes the ones shot from guns. Be sure fellas and girls, the big red and blue package of Quaker Pop Wheat or Quaker Pop Rice is on your breakfast table every morning. These famous ready to serve cereals are actually shot from guns to make them bigger and better tasting. They have a comeback for more nut like flavor. A come again tender crispness. For a taste treat you want to repeat, ask mom to get delicious Quaker Puff Rice and Quaker Puff Wheat.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on Car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Doug]

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[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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[Doug]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

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[Doug]

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[Narrator]

Pete Madden and Concho Coleman owned and worked a rich gold claim in the Nahone mountain area about 100 miles north of Dawson. As Pete donned his Parker in the cabin they shared, Concho shook his bald head sadly. His blue eyes were clouded with concern and his weather beaten face was deeply creased with lines of worry.

[Spike Marlin]

Dad. Reddit, Pete. You'll have a mighty hard trip.

[Pete Madden]

There's no way out of it, Concho. One of us has to go and get the mining machinery we ordered.

[Spike Marlin]

All the way to Dawson on foot with a heavy pack on your back.

[Pete Madden]

Fellow I used to work with has a shack about a week's travel from here. I'll stop at his place and rest a while.

[Spike Marlin]

What's his name?

[Pete Madden]

Spike Marlin.

[Spike Marlin]

Never heard of him.

[Pete Madden]

We came to the Yukon together in 84. Fact is we worked for the Canadian Pacific Railroad laying track.

[Spike Marlin]

Railroad was finished in 85.

[Pete Madden]

Yep. Then Spike and I went prospecting.

[Spike Marlin]

Did you have any luck? No.

[Pete Madden]

Spike got discouraged and turned trapper. I drifted north and spent 10 years looking for a rich strike. Then I met you.

[Spike Marlin]

It was a lucky day for me, Pete, when we decided to become partners.

[Pete Madden]

It didn't take us long after that to find this claim. And it's a dog gone. Good one.

[Spike Marlin]

It'll be even better when we get the mining machinery working in the spring.

[Pete Madden]

I want to get it up here before the thaw. We'll be all set to go when the coal breaks.

[Spike Marlin]

How will you move the machinery from Dawson?

[Pete Madden]

I'll buy a sled and dogs for myself and hire a freighter to help haul it.

[Spike Marlin]

You need a lot of gold.

[Pete Madden]

I put $5,000 in gold in my pack and supplies. Enough to last a month.

[Spike Marlin]

The dog team will cost plenty and the first rate sled's priced high. On top of that, you'll have the machinery to pay for. You not have much of the 5,000 left when you start back here.

[Pete Madden]

I'll be all right.

[Spike Marlin]

Bad we haven't a sled and dog team to carry that pack for you, Pete. You'll be done into your bootstraps by the time you reach Dawson, I might

[Pete Madden]

be able to buy a sled and dogs from Spike Marlin. I hope so and would make the trip easier.

[Spike Marlin]

Look, I'll be glad to go in your place.

[Pete Madden]

Nothing doing, partner. We drew straw to see which one would go and that's all settled.

[Spike Marlin]

But you might run into trouble. You might be robbed.

[Pete Madden]

Don't worry. I'll not trust any strangers. Now to get that pack on. Oh, wait a minute.

[Spike Marlin]

Wait. Let me help you.

[Pete Madden]

Thanks.

[Spike Marlin]

There. All set?

[Narrator]

Yep.

[Spike Marlin]

Be careful, Pete.

[Pete Madden]

Right. Well, so long, Katjo. I'll see you in about six weeks.

[Spike Marlin]

I'll be looking for you, pardner.

[Narrator]

Six and a half days later, Pete trudged alone through wind and snow across the frozen surface of Jackknife river and continued south for several months. By the time he reached Spike Marlin's cabin that evening on the northern shore of Lake Achobe, he was exhausted. He was glad to find that his former partner had a spare bunk he could use.

[Spike Marlin]

Kick off your boots, Pete, and make yourself at home while I cook some grub.

[Pete Madden]

Thanks, Mike.

[Spike Marlin]

Nephew, look. Dog tired.

[Pete Madden]

Oh, I am. How long you been walking? Six and a half? Oh, close to seven days. Traveling that distance with a heavy pack on your backs, no picnic.

[Spike Marlin]

Sounds as if you've gone soft.

[Pete Madden]

It's been a couple of years since I've had this kind of workout.

[Spike Marlin]

You hungry, Petey?

[Pete Madden]

I'm almost too tired to eat.

[Spike Marlin]

How far you going, Dawson?

[Pete Madden]

I've got to pick up some mining machinery there. For who? My partner and me. We have a claim in the Nahone Mountains.

[Spike Marlin]

Well, it must be a mighty good claim. If you're going into mining, that's good enough. Maybe I was a jughead to give up prospecting.

[Pete Madden]

You thought trapping a couple of seasons would make you rich, Spike.

[Spike Marlin]

I thought wrong.

[Pete Madden]

Some fellas make a lot of money trapping.

[Spike Marlin]

Well, I haven't. It's a hand to mouth kind of life, Pete. I'd give anything to be able to go back to the States.

[Pete Madden]

What's stopping you?

[Spike Marlin]

Price of a ticket.

[Pete Madden]

Oh, I'll be glad to lend you a couple hundred dollars.

[Spike Marlin]

I need more than that.

[Pete Madden]

I'll make it 500.

[Spike Marlin]

Your luck sure has changed, Pete. You never had a dollar to lend anyone.

[Pete Madden]

Your luck will change too, Spike. It took me 12 years to find gold. They were downright lean years.

[Spike Marlin]

Now you're on top of the world. Me, I'm back where I started from in 84.

[Pete Madden]

I'm sorry, Spike.

[Spike Marlin]

Well, tell me about your claim, Pete. How you found it, where it's located, what it's worth.

[Pete Madden]

Well, now, as to how much the thing is worth.

[Narrator]

Spike Marlin listened attentively to Pete's account of his good fortune. As the two men sat down to eat, Spike thought bitterly of the difference in their circumstances. Pete had struck it rich while he had barely enough money to live on. Halfway through the meal, Pete yawned deeply. Spike noticed that he had scarcely touched his food.

[Spike Marlin]

Something wrong with the grub Peen?

[Pete Madden]

Oh, no, it's first rate, Spike. I reckon I'm just too tired to enjoy.

[Spike Marlin]

Well, stretch out on the bunk if you want in.

[Pete Madden]

Thanks.

[Spike Marlin]

You should have said a slower pace for yourself. Then you wouldn't be so tired.

[Pete Madden]

I shouldn't have tried to pack my gear on my back. The trip would have been a lot easier if I'd had a good team and sled.

[Spike Marlin]

You're right about that.

[Pete Madden]

Know where I could buy a sled and some dogs? Well, let's see.

[Narrator]

As Spike sat at the table finishing his meal, he studied Pete thoughtfully. He knew the prospector was exhausted and suspected he would sleep so soundly nothing short of an explosion would waken him. A plan began to form in Spike's avaricious mind.

[Spike Marlin]

You want to buy a sled? Dogs up here?

[Pete Madden]

Yeah.

[Spike Marlin]

Constable Dick Raymond has a good team for sale.

[Pete Madden]

Constable?

[Spike Marlin]

The policeman at the post on the other side of the lake.

[Pete Madden]

I didn't know there was a police post there.

[Spike Marlin]

And they built it last fall. The constable's got dogs of his own as well as a police team. If you're willing to pay a good price. He'll probably be glad to sell his Malamutin sled.

[Pete Madden]

I'll stop to see him tomorrow, just

[Spike Marlin]

across the lake to get there. Why?

[Pete Madden]

I plan to follow the shoreline to the other side.

[Spike Marlin]

But why? It's less than a mile straight across the lake. You'll save about 10 miles by crossing on the ice.

[Pete Madden]

Is it solid enough to be safe?

[Spike Marlin]

Ah, it'll be another month before the ice starts thinning. It's plenty thick to walk on.

[Pete Madden]

I crossed Jackknife river this morning, but I had to be mighty careful. The ice is dangerous at this time of year.

[Spike Marlin]

The leak's safe.

[Pete Madden]

Oh, I'm glad to hear it. I don't want to carry that pack any farther than I have to. This bunk's downright comfortable, Spike. I can't seem to keep my eyes on my. Pete.

[Narrator]

Spike looked closely at the sleeping prospector.

[Spike Marlin]

Dead to the world, huh?

[Narrator]

Leaving Pete asleep on the bunk, Spike put on his parka and left the cabin. He went to the edge of the Lake and studied the ice. He knew that the warm Chinook wind had begun to melt it, but the unbroken surface presented a deceptively solid appearance. He returned to the captain. Pete didn't stir when Spike loosened his clothing in an effort to learn whether or not the prospector wore a money belt.

[Spike Marlin]

Doesn't seem to be carrying anything but this poke. This is downright light for a gent who is talking about lending $500 worth of gold.

[Narrator]

As Spike poured the dust from the poke into his palm, he noticed Pete's pack. He knelt by the hearth to open it. In the firelight, he rummaged through the contents until he found a heavy leather pouch. Loosening the thong that bound the top, he gasped.

[Spike Marlin]

Gold. Thousands of dollars worth.

[Narrator]

Spike emptied the heavy pouch of its glittering contents, replaced the gold with an equal weight of scrap metal salvaged from broken traps, then very carefully repacked the gear.

[Spike Marlin]

When he leaves here tomorrow, he'll never know. The pack was opened.

[Narrator]

Early the next morning, Sergeant Preston halted his dog team in front of the police post on the banks of Lake Achobe. At the sound of the sergeant's voice, the cabin door opened. King went forward eagerly to greet his old friend, Constable Dick Raymond.

[Pete Madden]

Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Dick.

[Spike Marlin]

Great day. It's good to see you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Apparently, the feeling's mutual. King never forgets, old friend.

[Spike Marlin]

I expected you'd get here on patrol

[Narrator]

sometime this week, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'd have been here yesterday if we hadn't circled the lake.

[Spike Marlin]

Good thing you didn't try to cross it. The ice is thin and dangerous in

[Pete Madden]

the center of the lake.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, it begins to thin this time of year.

[Pete Madden]

Come inside.

[Spike Marlin]

You too, King.

[Narrator]

Great Scott.

[Sergeant Preston]

What's wrong?

[Pete Madden]

Look out there on the lake.

[Narrator]

Someone's starting across, crossing from the other side.

[Pete Madden]

But he'll never make it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, there.

[Pete Madden]

Hey.

[Sergeant Preston]

No use, Dick. He can't hear us.

[Pete Madden]

No, we're downwind from him.

[Sergeant Preston]

We've got to stop him before he reaches the thin ice.

[Narrator]

A long pole beside the cabin. I'll bring it with me in case he goes through.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right.

[Pete Madden]

Come on, King.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Oh, golly. I thought for a minute I heard a bear growling. You did? Let me out of here. Oh, stick around.

[Sergeant Preston]

My growl is worse than my bite.

[Narrator]

But I must be dreaming. Who ever heard of a talking bear? You know about Goldilocks and the three bears, don't you? Why, yes. Well, I'm the papa bear, and Goldilocks tasted your porridge. Yes, the little rascal. Well, you know, I always Thought Goldilocks should have tipped you off to something. To what? To the swellest tasting ready to eat breakfast cereal ever. Crisp fresh Quaker puffed rice or Quaker Puffed Wheat.

[Spike Marlin]

Hmm, did you say puff?

[Narrator]

Yes, the choice. Premium grains of wheat and rice are exploded up to eight times normal size. They're what? They're actually shot from guns. Tip, Mr. Papa Bear. For the fellows and girls listening in morning, noon or night, enjoy a bowl full of Quaker Popped wheat or Quaker Popped rice. The breakfast cereals shot from guns.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Doug]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Doug]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a'@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.

[Doug]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

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[Narrator]

Now to continue. As Constable Dick Raymond went to get the sturdy pole, Sergeant Preston took a length of rope from his sled and hurried after the mighty dog who was already racing across the ice.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hurry, Dick.

[Narrator]

Pete Madden was watching the ice and walking slowly to keep from slipping. He didn't see the Mounties and couldn't hear their shouts of warning. But Spike Marlin, watching through binoculars from his lakeside cabin, saw the policeman hurrying forward and waited tensely. He breathed a sigh of relief when the ice beneath Pete's feet suddenly gave way. Pete struggled desperately to stay afloat in the icy water, but the weight of his Pack and heavy clothing threatened to drag him under. Then he saw King and the two policemen hurrying across the ice. King leaped from the edge of the ice into the water. Pete grabbed the husky's furry neck and held on.

[Sergeant Preston]

We're coming, King.

[Narrator]

Help.

[Pete Madden]

Help. Hold on to the dog.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston and the constable advanced as far as they dared on the thin ice.

[Sergeant Preston]

We're coming.

[Pete Madden]

Help.

[Narrator]

Help. The sergeant tied one end of the rope around his waist, handed the other end to his companion.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hold this rope, Dick. Stay here with the ice is firm.

[Spike Marlin]

Right.

[Sergeant Preston]

I give him that pole.

[Narrator]

Lying flat on his stomach, which distributed his weight over a larger area, Reston moved toward the open water, pushing the pole ahead of him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hang on, the King.

[Narrator]

The ice cracked menacingly as the sergeant went forward.

[Sergeant Preston]

Can you reach the end of the pole?

[Pete Madden]

Yeah, I got it.

[Sergeant Preston]

Now try to pull yourself out of the water.

[Narrator]

Pete managed to reach the ice. Then slowly he crawled cautiously, a firmer footing where Sergeant Preston and the constable stood. Preston took off his parka and handed it to Pete.

[Sergeant Preston]

Here, wrap yourself in my parka.

[Pete Madden]

But what about you?

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry about me. You'll freeze to death unless you keep moving. Take it back to the post and I'll get King out.

[Narrator]

A short time later, Pete Madden and King were both warm and dry in the comfortable police post while a great dog lay contentedly at Preston's feet. Pete sipped steaming tea and expressed his gratitude to his rescuers.

[Pete Madden]

Oh, with heavy furs and that pack strapped on my back, I'd have gone under for sure if it hadn't been for you and your dog, Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Glad we were near enough to help you.

[Spike Marlin]

Whatever's in your pack will need drying out.

[Pete Madden]

I wasn't carrying much in the way of clothing. Mostly supplies and the leather pouch full of gold. But I reckon getting wet won't hurt that any.

[Spike Marlin]

I'll see how much of your food can be salvaged, Pete.

[Sergeant Preston]

I didn't think anyone but a greenhorn would be foolish enough to try crossing the lake this time of year.

[Pete Madden]

I'm no greenhorn, Sergeant, but. Well, I wasn't going to risk the crossing till Spike Marlin told me the ice was safe.

[Sergeant Preston]

Who's Spike Marlin?

[Spike Marlin]

A trapper.

[Pete Madden]

Cabin's on the other side of the lake, huh? See it from our front window. Years ago, Spike and I were partners. He's been trapping around here for a long time, so I figured he knew what he was talking about.

[Spike Marlin]

He was wrong.

[Pete Madden]

Well, anyone can make a mistake.

[Sergeant Preston]

That one nearly cost you your life.

[Pete Madden]

Oh, hey, wait, wait. What's that leather pouch.

[Narrator]

I know that.

[Pete Madden]

But what's making that racket? What's inside it?

[Spike Marlin]

You ought to know, Pete.

[Pete Madden]

Gold dust doesn't rattle like that. Empty the pouch, will you, Constable?

[Spike Marlin]

Sure thing. There he is.

[Narrator]

Why, what in the world is this stuff?

[Sergeant Preston]

Place them out of your holdings. A broken hinge from a trap of gun. This is a link from a chain.

[Pete Madden]

Where's my gold?

[Spike Marlin]

Pouch is empty, people.

[Pete Madden]

Then I've been robbed. And only one man could have stolen my gold. It was in the pouch yesterday morning. I had it with me when I got to Spike's place.

[Sergeant Preston]

How much were you carrying?

[Pete Madden]

$5,000 worth.

[Spike Marlin]

Spike may have figured you'd drown in

[Pete Madden]

the lake before you found out you'd been robbed. I crossed the lake because he told me you had dogs and a sled you'd sell.

[Narrator]

I couldn't sell police property.

[Pete Madden]

He said you had a team and sled of your own. Besides the police dogs and sled. Why, that dirty lion buzzard. To think he'd turn on me, steal my gold, connive to kill me. Why didn't he just shoot me and be done with it?

[Sergeant Preston]

With a police post across the lake. He wanted you to die a supposedly accidental death. That way he thought he could escape punishment for robbery and murder.

[Pete Madden]

Well, he's robbed the wrong man. Hey, where are you going? I'm going after Spike.

[Sergeant Preston]

Take it easy. We'll both go after him.

[Narrator]

Constable Raymond was able to outfit Pete Madden with dry clothing. Then the sergeant and the irate Prospector traveled the 15 mile half circle around the edge of Lake Achobe to Spike Marlin's cabin. But the cabin was empty.

[Pete Madden]

He's gone. Cleared out.

[Sergeant Preston]

You're right, Pete.

[Pete Madden]

Maybe the skunk thinks I'm dead.

[Sergeant Preston]

He may know you're alive.

[Pete Madden]

Huh?

[Sergeant Preston]

From this window here, he has a

[Spike Marlin]

clear view of the lake.

[Sergeant Preston]

He might have seen the rescue.

[Pete Madden]

Then he knows we'll be after him.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes.

[Pete Madden]

Where do you think he went?

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston King will be able to tell us. That thief. He'll find Spike.

[Pete Madden]

I want to be with you when you catch up with him.

[Sergeant Preston]

All right, but we've no time to waste.

[Narrator]

King got Spike's scent from articles that had been left in the cabin. Once outside, the dog picked up the scent of the snow and began to follow it. The trail Leant North 1 King Andrew has. Because he knew the police would be looking for him. Spike Marlin traveled light. His dogs were powerful and as fast as Preston's. The big trapper himself was a match for the Mounties.

[Pete Madden]

Hush. Hush, you husky.

[Narrator]

Hardened by outdoor living, he was strong and had endurance enough to withstand the rigors of a long and difficult trip. As Sergeant Preston studied his tracks in the snow, he knew it would not be easy to overtake the thief. It was a trying manhunt. Sergeant Preston allowed a minimum of rest for himself, Pete Madden and the team of huskies. Only an iron willed determination to see Spike punished and to recover his goal enabled Pete to maintain the man killing pace without complaint. In four days, they gained slightly on the man they sought. Preston and his companion were only a few miles from the town of Reindeer Ridge when one of the dogs went lame.

[Pete Madden]

Will she be able to travel, Sergeant Preston?

[Sergeant Preston]

No, Pete. I'll have to take her out of harness.

[Pete Madden]

That's a piece of bad luck we could have done without.

[Sergeant Preston]

Easy, Peter, easy.

[Pete Madden]

Hey, look at King. He's fussing over that dog like a squaw with an ailing papoose.

[Sergeant Preston]

King, you'll have to help pull the sled, boy.

[Pete Madden]

Maybe we can get a dog in Reindeer Ridge.

[Sergeant Preston]

That wouldn't help. Pete seems used to working as a unit. Strange dog in the line might slow them down. There you are, Frida. You're riding the sled in style. Up here, lady. Lie down. Be or so off that foot and you'll be all right.

[Pete Madden]

You know, Sergeant Preston, I don't savvy why? Spike's heading north.

[Sergeant Preston]

What do you mean?

[Pete Madden]

It looks to me as if he's heading for the Nahone Mountain.

[Sergeant Preston]

What about it?

[Pete Madden]

That's where my partner Concho and I have a claim.

[Sergeant Preston]

If Concho's there alone, Spike may plan to rob him.

[Pete Madden]

I hadn't thought of that.

[Sergeant Preston]

He may head west from the Nahones to the Alaskan border. Once across the boundary line, he thinks he'll be safe.

[Pete Madden]

I hope we overtake him before he reaches the claim. I don't want Concho to have any trouble with him.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll do our best. Enter the line, King. That's it, fella. All set and let's go.

[Narrator]

And King on, you husk. Spike's trail led him to the town of Reindeer Ridge. But the sergeant learned that he stopped only long enough to buy supplies before shoving on.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll keep after him.

[Pete Madden]

He must be doggone near dead on his feet by this time.

[Sergeant Preston]

What about you, Pete? It's been a hard trip.

[Pete Madden]

I haven't complained, have I?

[Sergeant Preston]

Oh, you've done well. But I know you're too.

[Pete Madden]

I'm staying with you till we get

[Narrator]

Spike hunting on you.

[Pete Madden]

Husky.

[Narrator]

Outside the town of Reindeer Ridge. Spike's tracks disappeared from the hard packed wind swept trails. But King wasn't following visible tracks. Without hesitation, the mighty dog led the team on toward the Nahoni mountain region. They entered a forest of giant spruce and fir trees. An early moon appeared in the darkening sky.

[Pete Madden]

We're not far from my claim now, Sergeant. And Spike is still ahead of us.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll have to be careful here.

[Pete Madden]

What do you mean?

[Sergeant Preston]

We've passed half a dozen places so far where we might have been ambushed.

[Narrator]

As Sergeant Preston spoke, Spike Marlin fired from a hiding place ahead. In the uncertain light, he missed his target. Instead of hitting Preston, it clipped the fur of his pocket. Quick over, Pete.

[Pete Madden]

Right.

[Narrator]

Land sized rocks in the side of the trail provided quick shelter for the sergeant and Pete. As Spike fired again, the sergeant saw the flash of his gun and triggered his own weapon.

[Pete Madden]

Did you get him?

[Sergeant Preston]

No, Pete.

[Pete Madden]

I'll fill a skunk full of lead. Dog gone and I missed him.

[Sergeant Preston]

He's as well protected as we are.

[Pete Madden]

That right. The luck. Why that dirty skunk.

[Sergeant Preston]

Take it easy.

[Pete Madden]

That shot hit the rock less than an inch from my head.

[Sergeant Preston]

Keep your head down.

[Pete Madden]

But we've got to get him, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

I intend to get him.

[Pete Madden]

But how?

[Sergeant Preston]

You stay here. Fire a shot occasionally to keep him occupied while I go around through the trees and try to close in on him from the side.

[Pete Madden]

I savvy you'll get to a place where you can draw a bead on him. Then let him have it, eh?

[Sergeant Preston]

There'll be no more guns play unless he wants it. Pete.

[Pete Madden]

He's proven he wants it.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll see you later.

[Pete Madden]

Be careful.

[Sergeant Preston]

Don't worry. I'll keep the COVID as much as possible.

[Narrator]

As Sergeant Preston made his way toward the outlaw who waited eagerly for his pursuers to show themselves. Pete Madden's partner, Concho was putting on his parker in their cabin less than half a mile away. The elderly prospector had heard the gunplay and was on his way to investigate. He approached Spike's hiding place. Just as the sergeant reached a point from where he could see the gunman's moonlit figure. Spike heard Concho coming. Fearing capture, Spike turned to fire at the newcomer. But Sergeant Preston's gun roared. The bullet struck Spike Marlin's gun hand.

[Spike Marlin]

I had that shot.

[Sergeant Preston]

I did. Keep your hands up unless you want more gunplay. What's going on?

[Pete Madden]

Who are you fellas?

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston, Northwest Motor Police. This man is Spike Marlin.

[Narrator]

Marlin?

[Spike Marlin]

He's an old friend of my father.

[Sergeant Preston]

You're under arrest in the name of the Crown, Spike.

[Pete Madden]

All righty.

[Spike Marlin]

I know when I'm licked.

[Pete Madden]

Did you get him, Sergeant? I heard the critter howling.

[Sergeant Preston]

He's through fighting. Pete.

[Narrator]

Pete.

[Pete Madden]

What. What are you doing here? Spike robbed me. Concho stole the $5,000 I had in my pack. Sergeant Preston and I trailed the dirty crook. Sergeant, this is my partner, Concho. Howdy, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Preston]

Hello, Concho.

[Pete Madden]

Where's my gold spike? Fine friend you turned out to be. Tried to murder me, too, didn't you?

[Spike Marlin]

And I almost got away with it.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll bandage your wound, then we're going to Dawson.

[Pete Madden]

Dawson?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right, Pete. Spike's heading for jail.

[Pete Madden]

I'm going to Dawson to pick up some machinery.

[Sergeant Preston]

Fine. You'll be able to travel with us.

[Pete Madden]

Say, that'll be great.

[Spike Marlin]

I sure hope you don't run into

[Pete Madden]

any more trouble, Pete. Oh, my troubles are over now that I'm traveling with Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Thanks for your copy. Confidence, please.

[Pete Madden]

Why, that sounds like King.

[Narrator]

It is.

[Sergeant Preston]

Come on, Spike. My medical supplies are on the sled. And remember, you're covered, so don't try a fast move. Don't worry. We're coming, King Boy. This case is closed.

[Narrator]

We'll return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure.

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[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And, Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Doug]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Doug]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Doug]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

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[VRBO Announcer]

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[VRBO Support Representative]

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[Narrator]

Check and double check. You mothers especially check and see if the whole family doesn't prefer delicious Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat for breakfast. Check and see how much everybody, dad included, likes the sunny natural flavor of the good wholesome grain, the sunny natural flavor that old Mother Nature herself puts into it. These premium grains are never factory sweetened and no sugar is added. That's mighty important to you mothers and dads because you may not like your cereal so sweet, yet the youngsters may like it very, very sweet. And here's the beauty of Quaker Puff Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat. The whole family can sweeten them with sugar or not, just the way they please. So for a breakfast treat the whole family enjoys, get delicious crisp Quaker Puff Rice and Quaker Puff Wheat. You can't miss them on your grocer shelf because they come in the red and blue packages with a picture of the big gun on the front. Sergeant Preston and a constable traveling to the far north on patrol rescued a man weak from hunger. Later, after they had questioned him, the constable spoke to Preston.

[Pete Madden]

Sergeant, he tells a strange story.

[Spike Marlin]

Do you believe what he says about

[Narrator]

mutiny and the whaling ship and all that?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, the sooner we reach Mackenzie Bay, the better it will be. We hope to be of help.

[Narrator]

Preston, with the Constable and its great dog King met dangerous and exciting adventures in their hurried trip to the far north territory. Be sure to hear this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell, Muir Incorporated, directed by Fred Flowerday and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of Sergeant Preston is played by Paul Sutton. Sergeant Preston of the Yukon is brought to you every Tuesday and Thursday at this same time by Quaker Puff Wheat and Quaker Puff Rice, the breakfast cereals shot from gun. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Puff Wheat and Quaker Puff Rice. So long. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel. By going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve 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.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty, even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Doug]

Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Doug]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Doug]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Narrator]

Get that AMEX Gold Card ready. I'm too tired to cook.

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[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Doug]

Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. Other we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Doug]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Doug]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.