Unleashed Fury | Tales of the Texas Rangers (05-11-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode Summary: Unleashed Fury | Tales of the Texas Rangers (05-11-52)

Release Date: August 27, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes

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Overview

In this gripping restored classic from the golden age of radio, the Texas Rangers face one of their most harrowing cases: the manhunt for Charlie Brock, a dangerously unstable asylum escapee. Drawing from dramatized “files” of the Rangers, “Unleashed Fury” explores the terror, unpredictability, and tragedy that ensue as a small Texas community confronts Brock’s “fury”—rooted in a traumatic childhood and deadly resentment toward teachers and institutions. The episode is driven by tense, compelling dialogue, immersive sound design, and a deep sense of foreboding, underscored by questions of responsibility, human frailty, and the hard realities of rural law enforcement.

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Key Discussion Points and Narrative Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene – A Midnight Visit (04:13-06:55)

• Timeframe: April 25, 1938, 3:30 am, near Carnesville, Texas.
• Characters Introduced: Ralph Lang and his wife Ginny; Rangers Jace Pearson (Joel McCray) and Clay Morgan.
• The Rangers warn the Langs of an escaped hospital inmate, describing him as "a killer."
• Tension rises as the Langs fearfully double-check their home’s security, revealing rural isolation and the immediate sense of threat.
• Memorable Moment: The sense of increasing dread as Ginny insists Ralph search the house:

  "I'm scared, Ralph." – Ginny Lang, [06:03]
  "You got to get hold of yourself now. There's nothing to be scared about." – Ranger Jace Pearson, [06:58]

2. The Escape and Early Pursuit (07:06–10:37)

• Sudden noises in the house raise fears the fugitive might be inside.
• The Langs escape and alert police; Rangers Pearson and Morgan arrive, discovering evidence (hospital clothes) left behind.
• Brief glimpse of Brock as a shadowy figure from a ridge—he eludes them in the darkness.
• Introduction of Brock's violent past:

  "He murdered his parents about 10 years ago." – Ranger Jace Pearson, [09:53]
  "Parents and two sisters clubbed him to death." – Ranger Clay Morgan, [09:56]

3. Profiling the Fugitive – Insights from the Psychiatrist (10:49–13:28)

• The Rangers consult Dr. Gallus at the state hospital to understand Brock.
• Details of Brock's cunning escape—using a string coated in wax and scouring powder over a patient three months.
• Character study: Brock as physically powerful, “incredibly strong,” and emotionally scarred; his violence triggered by humiliation and childhood traumas at school.
• Quote:

  "We weren't able to do much with him in the way of therapy." – Dr. Gallus, [12:14]
  "You think he will try to kill again?" – Ranger Clay Morgan, [13:26]
  "I wish I could say no." – Dr. Gallus, [13:28]

4. Near Misses and Rising Fear (13:41–21:18)

• Sightings of Brock at a school in Rockville are investigated with the town marshal.
• Tension as the Rangers and townsfolk struggle with inadequate resources and mounting anxiety.
• Attack on schoolteacher Laura Stanwyck in her home after he likely hid in her car—she manages to wound him and escape.
• Key exchange:

  "You mean he was in my car the whole time I was driving home?" – Laura Stanwyck, [21:13]
  "It sounds that way, ma’am." – Ranger Clay Morgan, [21:17]

5. Developing a Profile: A Pattern With Schoolteachers (22:13–23:23)

• Over dinner, Ranger Morgan notes a pattern: Brock’s violence centers on teachers and schools.
• They determine Brock may return to his own childhood school in Cedar Bluff.
• Insightful hypothesis:

  "With this guy, you never know what he's gonna do next." – Ranger Jace Pearson, [22:13]
  "Seems to me we do have something that looks like an M.O… schools.” – Ranger Clay Morgan, [22:22]

6. The Final Confrontation at Cedar Bluff (23:36–28:50)

• The Rangers stake out the school with principal Mr. Dunn, who was once Brock’s teacher and victim.
• As classes begin, the building is on alert. Brock breaks into the school and attacks a teacher (Ms. Hoffman).
• Rangers chase and corner Brock, who tries to resist but is subdued.
• Dramatic moment:

  "He's going for that flower pot." – Ranger Clay Morgan, [27:42]
  "Put it down, Charlie!" – Ranger Jace Pearson, [27:43]
  Brock, raving and incoherent, is finally restrained.

7. Aftermath and Resolution (30:24–30:48)

• Brock is returned to the hospital, placed in special isolation.
• Despite efforts at therapy, “Brock's condition grew steadily worse” until his death in 1940.
• The episode closes with a sober editorial note on the limitations of justice and psychiatric care.

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Notable Quotes and Moments

• On Brock’s Motives:

  "Everything that's gone wrong for him started with school and teachers." – Ranger Clay Morgan, [22:35]

• The Reality of Policing Small Towns:

  "Just between you and me, Rangers, I'd be happy if it’s you corner him and not me. I don't mind handling traffic offenders, but this maniac..." – Town Marshal, [15:26]

• Confronting the Unpredictable:

  "With this guy, you never know what he's gonna do next." – Ranger Jace Pearson, [22:13]

• Dread and Humanity:

  "Once you've been close to him, you never forget him. He was like some vicious animal. I can still remember the way he looked. And that was over 15 years ago." – Mr. Dunn, principal, [24:34]

• Resolution:

  "Charlie Brock was returned to the hospital... Despite continued efforts at therapy by the psychiatrist, Brock's condition grew steadily worse. On November 10, 1940, Charlie Brock died quietly in his sleep." – Narrator, [30:29]

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Key Timestamps

• [04:13] – Case begins: Rangers alert the Langs about the escape.
• [09:16] – Rangers confirm Charlie Brock’s presence in the house.
• [11:13] – Dr. Gallus details Brock’s escape and psychological profile.
• [14:55] – Ms. Knight’s sighting of Brock at the schoolyard.
• [19:19] – Interview with Laura Stanwyck after Brock's attack.
• [22:13] – Rangers deduce Brock's MO is linked to teachers/schools.
• [23:36] – Rangers plan to intercept Brock at Cedar Bluff school.
• [27:25] – Climax: Brock is cornered and apprehended.
• [30:29] – Case conclusion and Brock’s fate.

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Tone & Style

• Grim, urgent, and realistic: The dialogue is taut but never melodramatic, often colored by understatement and the matter-of-fact professionalism of the Rangers.
• Dark psychological undertones: The episode does not shy from the bleak consequences of untreated trauma or the dangers of stigma and isolation.

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For Listeners:

This episode showcases the best of the Old Time Radio Westerns—a gripping, methodical manhunt, tense character-driven action, and a thoughtful meditation on justice and mental health on the frontier. The digital restoration brings a heightened sense of immersion—the thud of boots, the ring of the school bell, the tense hush before violence. With memorable performances and an authentic script, “Unleashed Fury” resonates both as a crime drama and as a still-timely reflection on the cycles of fear, compassion, and fate in the American West.

Highly recommended for fans of vintage radio drama, Western suspense, and authentic procedural storytelling.

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is the story of the wad. As a maintenance engineer, he hears things differently. To the untrained ear, everything on his shop floor might sound fine, but he can hear gears grinding or a belt slipping. So he steps in to fix the problem at hand before it gets out of hand. And he knows Granger's got the right product. He needs to get the job done, which is music to his ears. Call clickranger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

This is one of the most spectacular.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Venues with all kinds of character and hospitality scenery.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

These people in this git attas valley.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

They love when you come to see what they have to offer. I'm JJ Harris, Ellensburg Rodeo Clown, and I want to invite you to the rodeo. Come hang out with us in Ellensburg. Great rodeo. Great time. Two performances on Saturday. One is the Extreme Bulls of the Year event. Do not miss The Ellensburg Rodeo, August 29th through September 1st.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

We'll see you there.

[Podcast Host Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Oldtime 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/Storyteller]

Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson. Another authentic reenactment of a case transcribed from the files of the Texas Rangers. Names, dates and places in the following story are fictitious for obvious reasons. The events themselves are a matter of record.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is the story of the Watt. As a maintenance engineer, he hears things differently. To the untrained ear. Everything on his shop floor might sound fine, but he can hear gears grinding or a belt slipping. So he steps in to fix the problem at hand before it gets out of hand. And he knows Granger's got the right product. He needs to get the job done, which is music to his ears. Call clickgranger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

Every day Monday through Friday, there's top entertainment all day long. When you set your radio dial to NBC, listen for Double or Nothing and you'll hear one of radio's funniest quiz shows. Yes, Walter o' Keefe consistently comes up with great comedy entertainment Monday through Friday on Double or Nothing. Listen and you'll agree. And then there's the program with a heart. Strike It Rich. The grand entertainment that Warren Hull brings you every day on Strike It Rich is just what the doctor ordered. If you suffer from the housework blues from Chicago, Tommy Bartlett brings you welcome Travelers and interviews with the many interesting guests who each day pass through the Windy City. And for more fun, listen for Bob and Ray, those two zany comics. Then there's Music and Charm with Dave Garaway. So remember, every day, Monday through Friday, chase your blues away with the wonderful daytime programs and on this station of the NBC Radio Network. And now, here's today's adventure with the tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

And now, from the piles of the Texas Rangers, the case called Unleashed Fury.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

It is 3:30am during the night of.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

April 25, 1938, near the town of Carnesville, Texas. Ralph Lang and his wife were asleep.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

In the upstairs bedroom of their farmhouse.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Outside the house, a car pulls to.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

A stop and a moment later, Lang is awakened by someone knocking on the front door. He gets up and goes downstairs.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right. Who is that? Ranger Morgan, Texas Rangers. Oh, sorry to wake you up, sir. Oh, it's all right. What is it? You hear anyone prowling around your house tonight? Why, no. Why? Well, I don't want to scare you, but we're looking for one of the inmates from the state hospital. You mean somebody escaped from the asylum? Yes. You're about 1 this morning. We're checking all the houses in the area. Your doors locked? Yeah. Always keep them locked at night. This man, is he dangerous? Yes, sir. He's a killer. I see. I'll have to be moving on now. Just make sure you keep your doors and windows locked. Let us know if you see or hear anything. I will. Thanks for warning us.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Who is it, Ralph?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Nobody, honey.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

You go back to bed.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, good night, sir. Good night, Ranger.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Who was that?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Texas Ranger.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

What do you want?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Nothing, honey.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

That ain't so. What's a ranger doing around here this time of night?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Now, Jenny.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

What is it, Ralph? What's happened?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Nothing, I tell you. It's just some fella got out of the hospital. Rangers are looking for him.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Why'd they come here?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

They're checking all the houses around here. Just wanted to know if we'd seen him.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Well, I'm scared.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Now, honey, there's nothing to worry about. Let's go back to bed.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I think you ought to look around the house first.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What fur? We keep our doors and windows locked. He can't. Please rep. All right, honey, all right. But there ain't a way he could have got in. Besides, if he did, we'd have heard him. But now.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Oh, same. I'd feel better if you had a look.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Okay.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Ralph, I'm scared.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No, honey, you don't have to Be scared.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

Here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'll switch on the living room light. There, you see? Not a soul.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

You better look in the kitchen.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, Jenny, the kitchen door's locked.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I'm not sure I locked it. I can't remember.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, I'll go out there.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Be careful, though.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I will. Nobody out here.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

See if the door is locked.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Huh? What? You were right. It was unlocked. I'll lock it up now. I've looked. What do you say we go back upstairs and get some sleep?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I'm still sleeping. Scared r that?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You got to get hold of yourself now. There's nothing to be scared about. I'll just get this light.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Listen.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I don't hear another upstairs. Sounded like our bedroom door. Let me make sure.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Don't leave me.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

No, honey. Come on. Come on. Yeah, it's closed.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

It's upstairs. He must have been hiding in the hall. We didn't know it.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I better phone him.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

No, no, no. He'll hear you. Let's go.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, come on. I can't get this flame locked.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

The light in our bedroom, it just went out.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Jack. Come on.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We get the car.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

What's the matter?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The car keys. They're upstairs.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Oh, what are we gonna do? Ralph? The window. He's watching us.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Come on. We gotta get out of here. When the couple reached the nearest house half a mile away, they called the police radio. Word was flashed to Texas Rangers Jace Pearson and Clay Morgan, who were covering that area in separate cars. Ranger Pearson had just arrived at the Lang farmhouse when Ranger Morgan pulled up. Ace. Over here.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Clay.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I checked this place just 30 minutes ago.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

House is dark. Could still be in there. Let's go find out.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sure hope we get him fast. I have to think of a guy like this Charlie Brock wandering around the countryside.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Yeah.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Try the door. Yeah, it's unlocked. There's the light. I'll get it.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Doesn't look like he's down here anyhow. Let's get upstairs. Stay on your toes. Gets cornered. He probably put up a fight.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Bedroom door's closed. You hear anything, Jason? No. Let's go in easy. Not here. Reckon the Langs could have been imagining things?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I don't think so. Look at this.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Hospital clothes. Charlie was here, all right.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Probably helped himself to one of Mr. Lang's suits. We'll get a description of anything that's missing.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What do you figure we ought to do now?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

He can't be too far away. Let's go outside and see if we can pick up any kind of trail.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Might not do any harm to have a look. At that barn back of the house.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We'll check there first. And if we don't find any tracks, we'll split up and start covering the area.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Tough part is we don't have any way of figuring what he'll do next. Wish we could see that barn better. Moon's just gone down behind the hill.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We'll see you all right, soon as we get a little closer.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Must be pretty slippery to break out of that hospital. Yeah.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Vicious, too. You remember his case?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All I know is he murdered his parents about 10 years ago.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Parents and two sisters clubbed him to death.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Wonder what makes a man go off.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Hold it a second.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What is it?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I thought I heard something. Yeah, there it is again.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Sounds like gravel rolling down this hill.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Jason.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

There he is.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Stand on that ridge. You can see a silhouette. Hold it, Charlie.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

There's no use, Clay. He just went over the rise.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How about that there? The whole time watching us. He sure got nerve. More than that.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Watch yourself when we get the top.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Mlb. Where'd he go? There's not a sign of him.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

He's got to be around somewhere. Let's keep moving.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Charlie.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Brock's trail led through a stretch of brush and ended on the bank of a shallow creek. Clay went back for our horses, and we continued to scour the area. By noon, we were convinced Charlie gotten away. We decided that the psychiatrist at the state hospital might be able to give us some information that would help in our search. We went there. Dr. Gallus showed us the window of the isolation room through which Charlie had escaped. He had sawed the bars with a piece of string coated with wax and.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Scouring powder was unbelievable, Ranger. Three heavy bars and only that piece of string to work with. The patience of the man.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

How long was he in isolation, doctor?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

About three months. Can't imagine why one of the attendants didn't notice what he was doing.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Seems like he was pretty clever about that, too. Little bits of chewing gum on the ends of the bars probably used to cover up his progress.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Look at the way those bars have been out, Jace. Took a strong man to do that, even after they were sawed through. Charlie strong? He's incredibly strong. Oh, that's my call. You want to wait here, Rangers? I shouldn't belong.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We'll come along with you. We're anxious to get going. As soon as we ask you a few more questions.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Certainly. I was saying I didn't realize how strong Charlie was till we had to put him in isolation. What happened? Well, we had just admitted a young man to the hospital school teacher. One day he was talking to Charlie. Something he said must have made Charlie angry.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Did Charlie attack him?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yes, he did. It took six attendants to get Charlie under control. He almost killed the school teacher.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Was that the first time you had trouble with him?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yes. He's always been very quiet. Too quiet. We weren't able to do much with him in the way of therapy.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

What about his killing his parents and sisters? Were you ever able to figure out the reason for it?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

It wasn't easy to get Charlie to talk. But we gathered they'd always made fun of him. He'd been taken out of school when he was 16 and still in the fourth grade. And his family didn't let him forget it. He was older than 16 when he killed them, wasn't he? Yes. Oh, just a second, Lincoln. I have the key right here.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Wasn't Charlie in his middle 20s when he came here?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

24. Seems he ran away from home after he was taken out of school. He came back to see the bluff. That's his hometown. Eight years ago. Well, after he'd been home only two months, he. Well, you know the rest, huh? After you're in it. Excuse me while I see what the call desk wants. Dr. Gallus, do you want me? Oh, just a minute. Desk has a message for either one of you. I'll take it. Jason Ranger Morgan. Yeah, hold on. I certainly hope you catch up with Charlie soon, Ranger.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

So do we.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

He's dangerous. He's extremely dangerous. Completely unpredictable. There's no telling when he'll try to kill again.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

But you think he will try to kill?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I wish I could say no. Sorry doctor. We better get going.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Jace, who was it?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Town marshal's office over at Rockville. Somebody spotted Charlie Brock at a schoolyard there.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We took my car and made the 18 miles from the hospital to Rockville in 20 minutes. It was 3:30 when we arrived. The schoolyard was deserted. We began looking for the town Marshall. We found his car parked two blocks from the school. As we pulled up we saw the Marshall just leaving a house. Got out of our car and walked toward him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Howdy Rangers. Boy, I sure am glad to see the pair of you.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Got any leads on him, Marshall?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Not yet. Only one seen it was Ms. Knight over at the school. She's one of the teachers there. How long ago was this? Let's see, it must have been two hours ago. And you know, I got right out to the school. He'd already disappeared. I've been looking everywhere. Doing a house to house now, huh?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

You're sure it was Charlie Brock the teacher saw?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, couldn't have been nobody else. Old Norma Canine, she don't make mistakes. She said she recognized his picture from the paper. Even if she hadn't, couldn't have been. No doubt about it from the way he was acting. How do you mean? Well, Ms. Canine, she had the kids out in the schoolyard and she seen this fella standing outside the fence. Well, she didn't pay much attention to him. And then she scolded one of the kids a little, and this fella starts screaming at him and carrying on crazy like.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Did he come into the schoolyard, Mr. Canine?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

She didn't wait to see why. She just took the kids inside and called me. I come right out. The dumbest thing I ever seen. How I can't find him.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Where's Ms. Canine now?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

She's over her house. You see, she don't have no car, so I wrote a home in mine. She was right upset.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I guess she was.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yep. She got herself in such a state, I had to get one of the neighbors to stay with her. I Ted, you Rangers, I sure hope you catch this fella fast, neither. Want no part no maniac in my town. No, sir.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

You say you covered all the area around the school?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Covered every street and every house right up to here. There ain't no place he could hide for me, not the way I know this town. But I ain't been able to find him now. We'll give you a hand. It's pretty tough for you to be working alone anyhow. Well, just between you and me, Rangers, I'd be happy if it's you corner, but not me. I don't mind handling traffic offenders, but this maniac, he's something different.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We know our radio station standing by to flash us in case anything happens.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

How will they know?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

They asked your town operator to call them.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I'm going to get me a radio in my car one of these days. Mighty handy thing to have, especially when you got something like this here Brock fella loose in town.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Well, we'll see you later, Marshall.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I hope you get him, Rangers. I sure hope you get him. Figure he might still be around, Jason.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Even try to guess how close we were to him last night. He was watching us the whole time we were around the Lang farmhouse and we didn't know it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, that was the second time in an hour I could have had him if I'd have known.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Well, reckon the best thing to do is cover the outskirts of town. Maybe we'll be able to Spot him somewhere along the unit 10 to KTXA. Go ahead, KTXA as unit 10 arrived.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

In town of Rockville.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Unit 10 in Rockville.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Go ahead, investigate house at 573 Oak Street.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Man has attempted to strangle a Ms. Laura Stanwick.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The seventh believed to be Charles Brock.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

In just a moment, we will continue with Tales of the Texas Rangers, starring Joel McCray as Ranger Jace Pearson.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Can recruitment be beautiful? At LHH, we believe it can when it's rooted in purpose, not just process. We don't just match resumes to roles we uncover once in a lifetime talent. We understand the skills you need so we can connect you with people who align with your vision and can deliver lasting impact. Discover a more human approach to hiring. Visit LHH.com beautiful recruitment development career transition A beautiful working world.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

You've seen it happen time and time again. Children playing A ball rolls into the street. A child rushes after it full in the path of a speeding automobile. Perhaps the driver stops in time. The chances are he can't. And another tragedy, another accident due to carelessness is chalked up to become a figure on next year's traffic accident statistical chart. Let's all keep this year's traffic accident rate as low as possible. Stay within the speed limit. Don't endanger your life by trying to get somewhere too quickly. Better late than never may be a tired old saying, but it's also good common sense. Be alert and careful every moment you're behind the wheel. Never drive after drinking. Stick to your side of the road and watch for warnings at grade crossings. Remember, it's your life that's at stake. You can't afford to be careless. The life you save may be your own. And now let's get back to Tales of the Texas Rangers and our story for this week.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

We continue now with Tales of the Texas Rangers and our authentic story unleashed fury.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We drove to the address indicated in the radio call was a small bungalow set a little apart from the rest of the houses on the street. When we arrived, a number of neighbors were already in the house and stood in little groups. In the living room and kitchen, two or three people were comforting Laura Stanwyck, a girl in her early 20s. She was sitting at the kitchen table.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Excuse us. Let us through here, please.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Folks. If you don't mind, we'd like to ask Ms. Stanwyck a few questions. We won't be long. Ms. Stanwyck, we're sorry to bother you, but there are a few things we have to know.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

It was so awful. Awful.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Did you get A good look at the man?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Yes. His eyes and the way his mouth.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Had you ever seen him before?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Only his picture in the paper. He was the man who. Oh, I'm sorry.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The man who escaped from the hospital last night?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Yes.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Can you tell us how it happened?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I was standing here at the table, feeling potatoes. I heard the kitchen door open, and I looked around. Oh, it was so awful.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I'm sure it was.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

He jumped at me, made the most horrible sound, like an animal. I felt him put his hands around my throat.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Yes, ma'.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Am.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I think I jabbed his shoulder with a knife. I'm not sure after that. I must have fainted.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

This the knife you were using to peel potatoes?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yes. Little speck of blood on the tip. Chase.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

She might have nicked him, huh? Anyhow, it was enough to scare him away. Ms. Stanwyck, you say you only saw this man's picture in the papers. You never actually saw him until he came into your kitchen?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

No.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Were you home the whole day?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Oh, no. I just gotten home from school a few minutes before I came here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

School?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I'm a teacher at the grammar school.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Geez.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

How'd you get home from school, Ms. Stanwick?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Walk.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

I drove.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

That your coupe out in front? The blue one?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Yes.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Where was it parked?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Right outside the school building, where I always leave it.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

When you got into the car, do you remember if you looked in the back seat?

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

What? No, I don't think I did. Ms. Go, she's the fourth grade teacher. She was standing by the car when I got in. I remember we talked a few minutes about report cards. No, I'm sure I didn't look in the back.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Even if you had, it would have been tough to see anybody if he was lying on the floor.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

You mean he was in my car the whole time I was driving home?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

It sounds that way, ma'.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Am.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Oh.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

That's probably why the marshal didn't spot Charlie. Picked himself a good place to hide.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Ranger, you don't think that man will come back?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I don't know. You better have one of your neighbors stay with you until he's picked up.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Awful man. I know. I won't sleep till you get it. Please, Rangers. You got to get him.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We questioned the neighbors. Nobody'd seen Charlie Brock enter or leave the house. Working in cooperation with the marshals and a posse of townspeople, we covered every inch of the town. At 10 that evening, Clay and I went into a restaurant to get something to eat before continuing the search.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Tired, Jason?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Not too much. I don't know.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Beats me. How this guy's disappeared.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Me too. Unless he's hiding someplace we haven't thought of looking.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Can't think of where that would be. We've hit just about every alley, cellar and backyard in town. You want to hand me the salt and pepper?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Yeah.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Thanks. Like I said last night, you can always try to outguess an ordinary criminal. Figure out some kind of M.O. on him. With this guy, you never know what he's gonna do next.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I've been thinking about that. Seems to me we do have something that looks like an M.O.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You mean schools? Uh huh.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Remember while he was in the hospital he jumped a schoolteacher? Today he was after two others.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, that forms a pattern all right. But why?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

It's something Dr. Gallus would have to say for sure. But it sounds like Charlie Fields. Everything that's gone wrong for him started with school and teachers.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Suppose it's true. Suppose he's going to hit another school. Where does that leave us? We can't cover every school in Texas.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

No, but there's one we can cover. One that could be a pretty likely choice for Charlie.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Which one's that?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Charlie's hometown. Cedar Bluff. It's only about 20 miles from here.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, how can we be sure? We can't.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

But if you draw a straight line between the hospital and Cedar Bluff. What's it cut through?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, let's see it. Hey, it does come right through here. You figured Charlie might have just been sidetracked for a few hours this afternoon. And maybe the place he really meant to go when he broke out was his hometown.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

There's more than half a chance he may be heading for the school where he used to go. He could figure that this school is the root of all his trouble.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

You might have something at that. Jase finished eating. Yeah, I've had enough. Let's get over to Cedar Bluff.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We arrived in Cedar Bluff a little before midnight and awakened the principal of the grammar school, a man named Dunn. He'd been one of Charlie Brock's teachers and twice the victim of Brock's violence. Mr. Dunn admitted that he'd been more than uneasy since reading of Charlie's escape. He also felt the strong possibility of Charlie showing up at the school following morning. Clay and I arrived at the school before it opened. By 8:30, the children began arriving. Fifteen minutes later, Mr. Dunn walked toward where we stood just outside the school building.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Good morning. Good Morning, Rangers.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

Morning, Mr. Dunn.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, you know, I. I've got to confess it. After you left me last night, I hardly slept awake.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I'm sorry if we bothered you. But we thought it was necessary.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Of course it was. Oh, good morning, Ms. Hoffman.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Good morning.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

I kept thinking about Charlie Brock and the trouble he gave us when he went to school here. Expect he was a real problem, huh? Yes, he wasn't. It's so strange. In most ways, he was a completely backward boy. But sometimes when it came to covering up something he had done, he was actually brilliant.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

And we've seen some examples of his brilliance. Like the way he broke out of the hospital.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, once you've been close to him, you never forget him. He was like. Oh, he was like some vicious animal. I can still remember the way he looked. And that was over 15 years ago. And I certainly hope he doesn't show up here with all these children around.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

We'll be watching for Mr. Dunn, just in case.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Don't you want to come into my office? We. Make yourselves comfortable.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Thanks, but we better stay in our car. There might be some radio calls. Besides, we'll have a better view of the school from there.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Your car? I'm afraid I don't see it. Oh, behind those trees. Mr. Dunn, we got out of the way especially for Charlie's benefit. Oh, yes, yes.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Call us if you want us.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Well, thank you, but I hope I don't have to.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

And see you later, Mr. Dunn. Come on, Clay.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, that Mr. Dunn reminds me of a teacher I had when I was going to school in Wichita Falls. Hey, hear that, Jason? Remember how there were days when you'd hear that bell while you're still two blocks away from school? Yeah.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

You start worrying because you were late and there was nothing you could do about it.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah, except start thinking of a good excuse.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I wonder what goes on in Charlie Brock's mind when he hears a school bell ring.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Probably thinks it's the end of the world.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Could be you're not far wrong. Well, we better get in and settle down. We're liable to be here all day.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

10:30. Must be the recess bell. Sort of funny about Charlie. You think if he was going to show, he'd have been here by now?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

I don't know, Clay. Maybe I was wrong.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

The way you had it figured, sounded like pretty good reasoning. Could be he's sleeping somewhere. Maybe he'll turn up this afternoon.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Maybe. I'm beginning to wonder.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

If he doesn't show by this afternoon, you want to move on?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

That might be the best idea. Get the constable to keep watching.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

There's Mr. Dunn on the steps. He's waving to us. Looks pretty excited about something.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on, let's go.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Rangers. Curry. Curry.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

He's in there. He's inside the building where he tried to kill Ms. Hoffman. Oh, it was awful the way he. Where'd he go? Upstairs, I think.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on, Clay.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Right. Must be up this way. Didn't come in while we were here. Must have broken in the school last night and slept here.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Yeah. Try that first classroom. I'll get the other one.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Right. Nobody in here.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

This one's empty, too.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Might as well work our way down the hall. We got to.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Wait a minute. The room over there. Thought I just saw the door he shut. He is in there. Try not to make any sudden moves. Just keep talking while we work toward him.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Yeah. Jeez.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

In the corner, huh? All right, Charlie. Come on now, boy.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Easy now, Charlie.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Nobody's gonna hurt you. You just come along with us.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

He's going for that flower pot.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

No, Charlie, put it down. Put it down, Charlie.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

What did you.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on, Charlie. You're going with us now.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Easy, Charlie. She got you. She got you.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on, Charlie.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Can you hold him for just a minute now?

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Let's go, Charlie. Everything's gonna be all right now.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

That's a boy, now. Easy does it.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Down this way, Charlie.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Everything all right, Br?

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Mr. Dunn, I think you better get.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Back in one of the classrooms till we get Charlie.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Surely, Ranger.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Surely.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

All right, Charlie. All right, let's go. Let's go. Let's go. You'll be all right, Charlie. I don't belong in there. They do. They do. They do. They do.

[Ranger Clay Morgan]

Come on, boy.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

In just a moment, we will tell you the results of the case you have just heard.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

Later today, you will find more great entertainment all lined up for you on this NBC station. Be sure to hear the first nighter starring Barbara Luddy and Olin Soule in a light comedy drama. Then it stars in Khaki and blue, featuring talented members of the armed forces with Arlene Francis as your mistress of ceremonies. And be sure to hear the hilarious Phil Harris and Alice Fay show featuring the comedy antics of Frankie Remy, Julius Abruzio and brother William. And remember, too, that theater Guild on the air will bring you Prologue to glory, starring John Lund and Wanda Hendricks. Today's theater guild on the air play is a story about Abraham Lincoln as a young man. Yes, Sunday is fun day on NBC because of the many fine shows sent your way to add to your listening pleasure. Later tonight, you'll want to hear Jack parr and the $64 question. As Jack asks the questions and gives away the money. So remember, for fine entertainment, all the rest of the day. Stay tuned to this station of the NBC Radio Network. And now back to the conclusion of today's Tales of the Texas Rangers.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

And now, here are the results of the case you have just heard.

[Ranger Jace Pearson]

Charlie Brock was returned to the hospital, where he was placed in a special isolation room. Despite continued efforts at therapy by the psychiatrist, Brock's condition grew steadily worse. On November 10, 1940, Charlie Brock died quietly in his sleep.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Next week, Joel McCray and another authentic reenactment of a case from the files of the Texas Rangers. Joel McCray will soon be seen in San Francisco Story, a Warner Brothers release. In the cast you heard Herb Ellis as Clay Morgan. The role of Charlie Brock was portrayed by Harry Lang. Whitfield Connor was Ralph Lang and Hope Summers was Ginny Lang. Howard McNear played Mr. Dunn and Kay Stewart was heard as Laura Stanwyck. Technical adviser was Captain MT Lone Wolf Gonzalez of the Texas Rangers. This story was transcribed and adapted by Charles E. Israel and the program was produced and directed by Stacy Keats. Hal Gibney speaking.

[Radio Host/Announcer]

Next, it's the Chase on NBC.

[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 YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. 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.

[Laura Stanwyck / Female Characters]

Sam.