White Water | Challenge of the Yukon (12-20-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns: "White Water | Challenge of the Yukon (12-20-51)"

Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: April 2, 2025
Podcast Series: Old Time Radio Westerns
Episode Title: White Water | Challenge of the Yukon

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Introduction

In the "White Water | Challenge of the Yukon" episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners to the rugged terrains of the Yukon during the Gold Rush era. This digitally restored classic Western radio drama, originally aired on December 20, 1951, captivates audiences with its vivid storytelling, rich audio effects, and compelling characters. The episode intertwines themes of greed, betrayal, and honor, all set against the backdrop of the unforgiving Yukon wilderness.

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Plot Summary

The episode centers around the interactions between Johnny Elk, a wealthy prospector who has amassed considerable gold before the onset of the Yukon Gold Rush, and two shady prospectors, Clay Banham and his partner Dave. The narrative unfolds with Clay and Dave's desperate attempt to steal Johnny Elk's hard-earned gold, leading to a series of dramatic confrontations and moral dilemmas.

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Key Characters

• Johnny Elk: A seasoned prospector with substantial gold reserves, deeply connected to the local Indigenous community.
• Clay Banham: A greedy and unscrupulous prospector seeking to acquire Johnny's gold.
• Dave: Clay's partner, equally motivated by greed but somewhat hesitant about their plans.
• Sergeant Preston: A dedicated member of the Northwest Mounted Police, accompanied by his faithful dog, Yukon King.
• Constable Bill Cherry: The local constable who assists Sergeant Preston.
• Lonok: An Indigenous man and friend to Johnny Elk, aiding in the storyline's development.

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Detailed Synopsis

Initial Encounter and Setting Up (04:04 - 10:42)

The story begins as Johnny Elk visits the general store in Lime City to purchase supplies using gold rather than cash. His transaction attracts the attention of two prospectors, Clay Banham and Dave, who have recently faced a streak of bad luck. Intrigued by Johnny's wealth and friendly demeanor, they propose traveling together to pan for gold along the Wildcat River.

• Notable Quote:
  Dave (04:43): "I'm packing it now."
  [04:08]

As they journey downstream, Johnny shares his disdain for the current gold prospecting frenzy, revealing that he ceased panning years ago due to the oversaturation of miners in mountain streams. His connection with the local Indigenous tribe, whom he supports with his wealth, underscores his honorable nature.

Rising Tension and Betrayal (12:06 - 19:32)

As night falls, while Sergeant Preston and Yukon King patrol the area, Clay and Dave discuss their plan to rob Johnny Elk of his gold. Their conversation reveals their intent to overpower Johnny, retrieve the gold, and escape before law enforcement can intervene.

• Notable Quote:
  Clay Banham (12:11): "Johnny must keep his gold in his cabin."
  [12:14]

Lonok, an Indigenous friend of Johnny, becomes suspicious of their behavior, leading to tension and ultimately violence. Clay and Dave attempt to subdue Johnny, resulting in Johnny's sudden collapse and death, presumed to be from a heart condition. Despite their initial success, their search for the hidden gold within Johnny's cabin proves fruitless until Clay discovers a concealed compartment behind a loose rock in the fireplace.

• Notable Quote:
  Clay Banham (19:24): "What the gold dust. This is it, Dade. We found it."
  [19:17]

The Chase and Capture (20:00 - 26:42)

The next morning, Sergeant Preston receives a report about Johnny Elk's wish to leave his gold to the Indigenous tribe in his will. As Preston investigates, Clay and Dave, now burdened with the stolen gold, encounter Preston and Yukon King near the treacherous rapids known as the White Water.

Realizing they cannot navigate the dangerous rapids without assistance, Clay and Dave attempt to deceive Preston, claiming innocence despite the evidence. However, Constable Bill Cherry's testimony and the discovery of distinctive markings on their gear implicate them in the robbery and Johnny's death.

• Notable Quote:
  Sergeant Preston (24:31): "One alike. Search the packs."
  [24:31]

The corrupted prospectors' facade crumbles as Sergeant Preston arrests them, ensuring justice is served. The episode concludes with Preston honored for upholding Johnny's legacy and protecting the local Indigenous community.

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Greed vs. Honor: The contrasting motivations of Clay and Dave versus Johnny Elk highlight the destructive nature of greed and the enduring value of honor and community support.

2. Justice and Duty: Sergeant Preston embodies the relentless pursuit of justice, demonstrating integrity and dedication to his duty, essential traits of the classic Western hero.

3. Cultural Respect: Johnny Elk's supportive relationship with the Indigenous tribe underscores themes of mutual respect and the importance of aiding one's community.

4. Nature as a Character: The Yukon wilderness, especially the White Water rapids, serves as a formidable obstacle, emphasizing man's vulnerability against nature's might.

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Conclusion

"White Water | Challenge of the Yukon" masterfully blends suspense, character development, and moral lessons within the framework of an Old Time Radio Western. Through its richly restored audio and engaging storytelling, the episode not only entertains but also imparts timeless values of integrity, community, and the perils of unchecked greed. Andrew Rines and the Old Time Radio Westerns team successfully revive a classic tale, making it accessible and captivating for both longtime enthusiasts and new listeners alike.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Dave (04:43): "I'm packing it now."
• Clay Banham (12:11): "Johnny must keep his gold in his cabin."
• Clay Banham (19:24): "What the gold dust. This is it, Dade. We found it."
• Sergeant Preston (24:31): "One alike. Search the packs."

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Final Thoughts

For those who cherish the golden age of radio dramas, this episode of Old Time Radio Westerns offers an immersive journey into the Yukon’s perilous landscapes and the human stories that unfold within. The meticulous digital restoration ensures that every creak of the sled, every rustle in the wilderness, and every line of dialogue resonates with clarity, preserving the essence of these timeless Western tales.

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Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

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

[Narrator]

Now as gunshots echo across the windswept snow covered reaches of the Wild Northwest, Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice, the breakfast cereal shot from guns present Sergeant Preston of the Yukon. It's Yukon King, swift as the strongest lead dog of the Northwest blazing the trail for Sergeant Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police in his relentless pursuit of lawbreakers. Gold. Gold discovered in the Yukon. A stampede to the Klondike in the wild race for riches back to the days of the Gold Rush with Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice bringing you the adventures of Sergeant Preston and his wonder dog Yukon King as they meet the challenge of the Yukon. There's no one that can make a better cereal than Quaker Puff Rice. It's nice and when you hear that shootin'you're dern tootin'that Quaker makes the ones shot from guns and say if you hate to get up in the morning just think about this appetite alarm clock waiting for you on the breakfast table. A bowl of crisp fresh Quaker Puff Rice or Quaker Puffed Wheat topped with lots of milk or thick rich yellow cream and sliced bananas or chilled fruit. Yes you'll be out of bed like a shot for the ones shot from guns for a swell waker upper start tomorrow morning to enjoy the delicious toasty nut like flavor and tender crispness of Quaker Puff Rice or Quaker Puff Wheat. It was late afternoon when Johnny Elk left the office of Constable Bill Cherry in Lime City and headed for the general store. As the old man walked to the counter. The two prospectors who were pocketing their purchases eyed him curiously.

[Johnny Elk]

Hey, Jeb, is my order ready yet? I'm set to go back to Natalie.

[Storekeeper]

Be ready in a few minutes, Johnny.

[Dave]

I'm packing it now.

[Storekeeper]

Dave.

[Dave]

There's the man we've heard so much about.

[Johnny Elk]

Who?

[Dave]

Johnny Elk. I saw him once a couple of years ago and he hasn't changed a bit.

[Clay Banham]

Is he the old timer who's supposed to have so much gold he doesn't know what to do with it?

[Dave]

That's right. From what I hear, he spends it all on the Injuns.

[Clay Banham]

Where'd he strike it, Red?

[Dave]

He was panning Wildcat river before the gold rush started.

[Clay Banham]

Let's go over to where he stands and see if he pays for what.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

He bought in gold.

[Dave]

Right.

[Storekeeper]

There it is, packed and ready, Johnny. Trinkets and calico and canned goods. The Indians will have a celebration when they get there.

[Johnny Elk]

Yes, that's what I figure. Well, there's my poke. Zeb, weigh out what I owe you while I put this stuff on my sled.

[Storekeeper]

Well, wait a minute, I'll give you a hand.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, I can make it all right if one of you young feathers you open the door for me.

[Dave]

Oh, sure. Sure thing.

[Narrator]

A prospector named Dave stood near the scales, watching greedily while a storekeeper weighed some dust from Johnny's heavy poke. His partner, Clay Banham, hurried to open the door for Johnny Elk.

[Dave]

Here, I'll carry the load to your sled.

[Johnny Elk]

It's heavier than I thought. The sled's right over here, mister. All right. Well, here we are. I'll start a pack on the sled. All set now. Well, much obliged, young fellow.

[Dave]

Glad to do it.

[Johnny Elk]

I've never seen you or your partner around here before.

[Dave]

Hi, I'm Clay Bantam. My partners named Dade. We're strangers to Limes.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, I'm glad to know you, Clay. I'm Johnny Elkey. Where you two heading?

[Dave]

Wildcat River.

[Johnny Elk]

Huh? Whereabouts on the river?

[Dave]

Oh, no place in particular. Traveling north generally.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, I live on the riverbank. Why not travel with me?

[Dave]

Well, that suits me, Johnny. I'll go call my partner.

[Narrator]

It was 4:00 in the afternoon when Johnny Elk, Clay Banham and Dade left Lyon City. Soon the three men reached Wildcat river and turned to follow it downstream.

[Clay Banham]

That river is plenty noisy.

[Johnny Elk]

That's cause the water tavern's fast.

[Dave]

It looks high to me.

[Johnny Elk]

Yes, it is. This time of the year the snow is melting in the mountains. Come on, boys.

[Narrator]

As darkness Gathered, the men entered a canyon through which the river flowed.

[Dave]

How long will it take us to reach your place, Johnny?

[Johnny Elk]

Oh, about another hour.

[Clay Banham]

I hope you know where you're going.

[Johnny Elk]

Afraid of getting lost?

[Clay Banham]

I don't like traveling after dark.

[Dave]

Where does the canyon end?

[Johnny Elk]

Well, in a place called the Mouth. You know where that is?

[Clay Banham]

We're strangers here.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, now is just beyond Ida Wall's Indian village.

[Clay Banham]

Where's the Indian village?

[Johnny Elk]

Oh, about a mile past my place. You fellas are welcome to a meal with me unless you have other plans.

[Dave]

Hey, that sounds good to me, Johnny.

[Storekeeper]

What about you, Dade?

[Johnny Elk]

Flush. Flush.

[Narrator]

An hour later, Dade and Clay reached Johnny Elk's cabin. The front of the sturdy building was on a sloping bank about 150ft from the river's edge. Behind the cabin, walls of sheer rock rose in the darkness. Johnny had prepared a hearty meal for himself and his guests. His eyes twinkled as Clay and Dade had second, then third helpings of food. As Johnny refilled their tin cups with steaming coffee, he asked, you fellows had no kid?

[Dave]

Gosh, yes, Johnny.

[Clay Banham]

That's the first good meal I've had in a week.

[Johnny Elk]

Been getting by on slim races, huh?

[Clay Banham]

Mighty slim.

[Dave]

We've had a run of bad luck lately. You have a comfortable cabin here, Johnny?

[Johnny Elk]

Well, I like it. It's sort of crowded, but you boys are welcome to spend the night if you want it.

[Dave]

No, no, no. We don't want to bother you.

[Clay Banham]

What's that shack we passed about a half mile back?

[Johnny Elk]

That's a we cabin.

[Clay Banham]

We could spend the night there, couldn't we?

[Johnny Elk]

Sure. No one's here. You. You going to stay around here long?

[Dave]

We might. We figured we'd try panning Wildcat river for a while.

[Johnny Elk]

You'd be wasting your time. Before the rush, a fella could do well panning the river. But now so many miners and prospectors are panning the mountain streams. The river's worked out. I gave up panning two or three years ago.

[Clay Banham]

You paid the storekeeper in gold?

[Johnny Elk]

Oh, I always do.

[Clay Banham]

Oh. Where'd you get the gold if you're through panic?

[Johnny Elk]

Well, I got it before the gold rushers hit the Yukon. I have more than enough to take care of me for the rest of my life.

[Dave]

Why don't you go back to the States, Johnny, huh?

[Johnny Elk]

I'm satisfied to stay here with a.

[Dave]

Village of Indians for your nearest neighbors.

[Johnny Elk]

The Indians are my friends. They helped me when I had nothing. Now I'm able to help them. I like it that way.

[Clay Banham]

Clay, maybe we ought to Head east to look for gold.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, the country north of here is better for prospecting. And there's mighty good hunting about 10 miles beyond the Narrows.

[Dave]

Hey, it sounds good to me.

[Clay Banham]

D. Yeah, we'll try to get a canoe from the engines in the morning.

[Johnny Elk]

Now, wait a minute. You boys planning to go through the Narrows alone?

[Clay Banham]

Sure, why not?

[Johnny Elk]

You'll feel different when you see that water in the morning. Just past the Injun village, the canyon narrows. The river fills it completely.

[Clay Banham]

I can handle a canoe.

[Johnny Elk]

Yeah, so can a lot of other men, but they wouldn't try to steer a canoe around the jagged rocks at the narrows.

[Dave]

We'll watch for the rocks, Johnny.

[Johnny Elk]

Well, they're underwater. You wouldn't see the rocks that'd tear the bottom from the canoe. And the rocks aren't the worst of it. There's the rapids.

[Narrator]

Rapids? Yep.

[Johnny Elk]

Only one man around here can handle a canoe in the white water. And he's an engine.

[Clay Banham]

What's the white water?

[Johnny Elk]

Well, that's what the Injuns call the rapids. Say, I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll go over to the village in the morning and ask Lo Noc to guide you through. He'll be glad to do it when I tell him you're friends of mine.

[Narrator]

A short time later, Clay and Dade left to retrace their steps to a way cabin half a mile from Johnny's place, where they planned to spend the night. Meanwhile, Sergeant Preston and the great dog Yukon King reached Lime City. They went directly to the constable's home, where they were warmly welcomed by Bill. Jerry.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good to see you again, Bill.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Well, I'm glad you're here, Sergeant Preston, but I'm not the only one who's been waiting to see you.

[Sergeant Preston]

No.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Johnny Elk was here looking for you today. He has a serious heart condition and wants to make out a will.

[Sergeant Preston]

Is that why he wants to see me?

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Yes. He figures I might be transferred to another part of the Yukon. But he knows that you patrol this area regularly, so he wants to tell you what to do with his gold after his death. He said he was going to depend on you to carry out his wishes.

[Sergeant Preston]

I suppose he'll want to leave the gold to relatives.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

He has no relatives. He wants to leave what he has to the Indians.

[Sergeant Preston]

Chief Otawa's tribe?

[Constable Bill Cherry]

That's right. You see, for years, Johnny's been taking care of those Indians. Hunting and fishing are bad. He supplies them with food and clothing. He buys them medicine, trinkets and jewelry. And he wants to be sure they'll get what they need after he's gone.

[Sergeant Preston]

I see.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

That's his only worry. He's been here three times in the last two weeks asking about you and King.

[Sergeant Preston]

We'll go to Johnny's place in the morning.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Oh, he'll be mighty glad to see you, Sergeant Preston.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston checked Constable Cherry's reports. Then he and King went to the spare bedroom in the constable's home and turned in for the night. Soon he and his dog were both asleep in the way cabin beside Wildcat river where they were spending the night. Neither Clay Banham nor his partner Dade thought of sleep. A coal oil lamp burned brightly as the two men sat at a table in the drafty shack.

[Clay Banham]

Dade was saying, johnny up must have plenty of gold. Clay, you heard him say he had all he needed.

[Dave]

If we traveled north into the hills, we might find gold ourselves.

[Clay Banham]

Dade. Why should we spend months, maybe years looking for it when it's right under our noses, huh? There's no bank in Lime City, Clay. Johnny must keep his gold in his cabin.

[Dave]

All we have to do is go.

[Clay Banham]

There and take it.

[Dave]

We'd never get away with it.

[Clay Banham]

Why not?

[Dave]

What about Johnny?

[Clay Banham]

I'll tell you what about Johnny. We'll make him show us where he keeps his gold.

[Narrator]

Lodak, the Indian of whom Johnny Elk had spoken, had been in town transacting some business for his father, the chief. He was returning to his village when he noticed a light burning in the way cabin. His curiosity prompted him to investigate. He was about to knock on the door when he heard voices coming through the loosely chinked logs. He realized the two men inside the shack were talking about his friend, Johnny Elk.

[Dave]

Johnny Elk would never tell us where.

[Clay Banham]

He keeps the gold. He'll talk to save his life.

[Dave]

Even if we got the gold, Johnny would have the law on us in no time.

[Clay Banham]

Dade, tie and gag him so he can't go for help. By the time he's found, we'll be on our way out of the country with his gold.

[Dave]

Well, I don't know.

[Narrator]

Lonok moved to the window to look at the two men who planned to rob his friend. As he peered through the narrow opening, Clay saw him.

[Dave]

Hey, Dade. The window. What an engine. He must have heard his talk of robbing Johnny. Don't get him.

[Narrator]

Dade.

[Dave]

He's running away. He's at the riverbank.

[Clay Banham]

I'll stop him.

[Dave]

You hit him. He fell into the river.

[Clay Banham]

Maybe he was smart enough to jump in. Come on, we'll roll up for him.

[Narrator]

Dade's bullets had hit their Mark Lonok had been hit in the arm. The other bullet had grazed his temple. When he hit the water. He had reached out with his good arm and fought desperately to reach the opposite bank of the river. Lonok heard the two men approaching. He took a deep breath and ducked underwater. We'll continue our adventure in just a moment. Say, old timer, you look pretty busy there panning for gold.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Well son, when you're prospecting for gold up here in the Yukon, you even forget about eating.

[Narrator]

But not when you have a heaping bowl full of Quaker Puff Wheat or Quaker Puff Rice waiting for you.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

What kind of vittles are those?

[Narrator]

Why, haven't you heard? They're the swellest tasting breakfast cereals in the Yukon. They're the famous cereals shot from guns.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Shot from guns?

[Narrator]

Yep. Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat are actually shot from guns. To make them deliciously crisp and tender. They're exploded up up up to eight times normal size. And that makes them bigger and better tasting.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Well, it's a new one on me.

[Narrator]

Yes siree. They're mag crispified. Shot through and through. With bang up nut like flavor too.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Guess I'll do a little prospecting on that. Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed weed.

[Narrator]

Believe me, your appetite sure strikes it rich when you pour out a heaping bowl full of those tenderly crisp melt in your mouth king size kernels of wheat or rice shot from guns.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

You don't have to cook them or nothing.

[Narrator]

No cooking. Just add milk or cream and top with your favorite fruit.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Mighty handy for a busy gold prospector.

[Narrator]

Busy person. And mighty nourishing too. Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice furnish added food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

I'm going to get me some right away.

[Narrator]

And that's a tip for you fellas and girls too. Be sure to get crisp, fresh, delicious Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat for a breakfast treatment that can't be beat. Now to continue. After an unsuccessful search for the body of the Indian, Dade and Clay went to Johnny Elk's cabin. The place was dark.

[Dave]

He's likely asleep.

[Clay Banham]

We'll wake him.

[Dave]

I think I hear him moving about inside.

[Clay Banham]

Yeah, so do I. There's the light.

[Storekeeper]

Just a minute.

[Clay Banham]

We want to talk to you, Johnny.

[Johnny Elk]

Oh, it's you fellas.

[Dave]

Yeah, we'll come in if you don't mind.

[Johnny Elk]

How come you're back here?

[Clay Banham]

We come to talk about gold.

[Johnny Elk]

Couldn't that wait till morning?

[Dave]

No, we want to get it.

[Johnny Elk]

Now what's the idea of the gun?

[Dave]

This is a robbery, Johnny. A stick a put.

[Clay Banham]

Johnny, you'll save yourself a lot of trouble if you tell us where you keep your gold. We'll help ourselves and clear out of here without hurting.

[Dave]

And if you don't tell us double crossing pole catch.

[Johnny Elk]

I offered you a meal and told you where to find a place to sleep. I tipped you off to good prospecting country and even planned to fix it so's you get there. Now you want to steal my gold.

[Dave]

Where is it?

[Johnny Elk]

I'd be loco to tell you. What's more.

[Dave]

Grab him, Tate, before he gets his gun. I got him.

[Storekeeper]

Let go.

[Clay Banham]

He's fainting.

[Dave]

Hey, what's the matter with him?

[Clay Banham]

I don't know. I don't feel any pulse.

[Dave]

He's dead. You're right. I don't savvy what killed him.

[Clay Banham]

Maybe his heart gave out. Yeah.

[Dave]

Now he'll never tell us where to find the gold.

[Clay Banham]

We'll have to search this place to find it.

[Narrator]

The two partners began a methodical search of Johnny Elk's cabin. As he turned out the contents of the desk, Clay found the letter.

[Storekeeper]

Hey.

[Dave]

Hey, look at this, Dade.

[Sergeant Preston]

Huh?

[Dave]

It's a letter to Sergeant Preston saying Johnny wants the Mountie to see that the engine's got his gold after his death. It's witnessed by the constable in Lime City.

[Clay Banham]

Does the letter say where to find the gold?

[Dave]

No. No.

[Clay Banham]

Then keep looking for it. It's gotta be here somewhere.

[Narrator]

After examining every piece of furniture, the two men went over the floor carefully looking for a loose board that might offer a place of concealment. They worked slowly, determined to cover every inch of the cabin in an effort to find Johnny's gold. After several hours of fruitless searching, they were discouraged and cold. The fire had burned to smoldering embers.

[Dave]

Let's get out of here, Dade. I'm tired and cold.

[Clay Banham]

I throw a couple of logs in the fireplace. We're not leaving until we get the gold.

[Dave]

Maybe Johnny didn't keep it in the cabin. Maybe hid it outside someplace.

[Clay Banham]

There's no place outside to hide anything. It must be in here. We've looked everywhere date.

[Dave]

I tell you it's not here.

[Clay Banham]

I say it has to be. Come here, Clay.

[Dave]

What is it?

[Clay Banham]

Look at this rock. See?

[Johnny Elk]

It moves.

[Dave]

Hey, it's loose. Yeah, right.

[Clay Banham]

Comes out of the fireplace there. We'll see what's behind it.

[Dave]

There's a big hole. Reach inside. Dave?

[Clay Banham]

Yeah?

[Dave]

You find anything?

[Clay Banham]

Feels like there's a lot of small leather Sacks in there.

[Dave]

Bring one out.

[Clay Banham]

That's what I'm doing.

[Narrator]

Here.

[Clay Banham]

Open this one. I got another.

[Dave]

Right.

[Narrator]

With trembling fingers, Clay Banham loosened the leather thong that fastened the top of the sack. Then he spilled some of the contents into the palm of his hand.

[Dave]

What the gold dust. This is it, Dade. We found it.

[Clay Banham]

We'll get all of it out of here and then clear out.

[Dave]

We're rich, Dade. We're rich.

[Narrator]

When the two thieves left Johnny Elk's cabin carrying the stolen gold, their faces were flushed with excitement. The walk back to the way cabin, half a mile from Johnny's place, sobered them. Clay's spirit suddenly sagged, and he realized how tired he was.

[Dave]

Ah, I'm tired enough to sleep standing up.

[Clay Banham]

So am I. I'll get our gear together and pack some provisions and we'll head for Lime City.

[Dave]

What, without any sleep?

[Clay Banham]

You want to stay around here till somebody finds Johnny's body?

[Dave]

Nobody will find it till after daybreak. Maybe they'll not even find it then.

[Clay Banham]

Likely one of the engines will discover it. We start now, we'll have a good lead.

[Dave]

How far could we travel without rest? Neither one of us have had any sleep for 24 hours. I don't know about you, but I couldn't walk another half mile.

[Clay Banham]

All right, we'll turn in for a couple of hours.

[Dave]

Good. I'm hitting this bunk right now.

[Clay Banham]

Well get up at daybreak and start for town. All right.

[Dave]

All right. We'll get up at daybreak.

[Narrator]

Daybreak found Sergeant Preston and King already on the trail. They were traveling north and were only an hour from the way cabin when Dade opened his eyes. A look at the sky startled him to complete wakefulness. It's daylight. Dade hurried across the room and shook his sleeping partner.

[Clay Banham]

Play. Wake up.

[Dave]

Play. What is it?

[Johnny Elk]

Get up.

[Clay Banham]

It's daylight. We should have been on the trail a couple hours ago. All right, all right.

[Dave]

Take it easy. I'm getting up.

[Clay Banham]

Make it fast.

[Sergeant Preston]

We.

[Clay Banham]

No time to waste.

[Narrator]

Quickly, the two men packed their gear and the stolen gold. Then they left the shack. Half an hour later, Dade stopped abruptly.

[Clay Banham]

Hey, look ahead.

[Dave]

There's somebody coming.

[Clay Banham]

A man and a dog.

[Dave]

I didn't figure we'd meet anyone in this canyon.

[Clay Banham]

The man's park is open. It looks like he's wearing a red shirt.

[Dave]

It's not a shirt, Dade. There's a coat under that park. A red coat. Dade, it's a Mountie.

[Clay Banham]

There's only two places he could be going. Johnny's cabin of the Indian village.

[Dave]

In either case, he'll find out about the robbery.

[Clay Banham]

He'll be on our trip.

[Dave]

What do we do?

[Johnny Elk]

Turn around?

[Clay Banham]

We'll head for the narrow.

[Dave]

How we get through the rapids?

[Clay Banham]

We'll get that engine to take us through.

[Dave]

We better hurry, Dave. The Mountie's seen us after the engine's.

[Clay Banham]

Taking us through the rapids. We'll have to kill him.

[Dave]

What good'll that do?

[Clay Banham]

It'll cut off pursuit. According to Johnny Elk, only one man can steer a canoe through the white water. When we're through the mount, he'll be on this side of the rapids and we'll be on the other. He'll lose a lot of time by traveling overland to circle the rapids to come after us.

[Narrator]

As the two men approached the village of the cave dwelling Indians, they could see Wildcat river filling the narrowing canyon ahead. The current seemed to race over the partially submerged rocks at the narrows. In spite of himself, Clay shuddered when he saw the reefs gaping like jagged teeth in the midst of the turbulent and foaming water that flooded the canyon from wall to wall.

[Dave]

Look at that river, Dade.

[Clay Banham]

Yeah. When you see it, you can understand why the injuries call it the white water.

[Dave]

I'd hate to try steering a canoe through it.

[Clay Banham]

Looks like something's going on in the village. Indians are mighty busy.

[Dave]

We better call one of them here.

[Narrator]

Hey, you.

[Clay Banham]

You understand English?

[Storekeeper]

Have English. Good.

[Clay Banham]

We want to go through the white water.

[Storekeeper]

No, you not go through white water.

[Clay Banham]

Why not?

[Storekeeper]

Only one Indian able go through white water. Him hurt, huh?

[Dave]

What's wrong with him?

[Storekeeper]

Him come village this morning. Wounded arm, side of head grazed by bullet.

[Dave]

Hey, Dade. That must be the Indian we saw.

[Storekeeper]

Yeah.

[Clay Banham]

Is he dead?

[Storekeeper]

Him unconscious. Plenty weak. You come back village four or five weeks maybe, then him take you through whitewater.

[Dave]

No, he can't wait that long.

[Clay Banham]

We want to go through now.

[Storekeeper]

You not go through now.

[Dave]

Somebody has to take us through.

[Clay Banham]

Listen, and then we'll pay you. We'll give you gold, lots of it.

[Dave]

That's right. Just find someone to take us through the reefs and over the rapids.

[Storekeeper]

No one but Loock go through Whitewater.

[Clay Banham]

Look.

[Dave]

Engine.

[Clay Banham]

Johnny Elk promised us someone would take her through.

[Storekeeper]

Johnny not no. Loock hurt brother. Chief Grantel. Johnny. Johnny, come here. Him tell you you not get through whitewater.

[Dave]

Now, Dade, we gotta get out of here.

[Clay Banham]

Look.

[Dave]

The mount. He's coming on the run. And he has another engine with him.

[Clay Banham]

Must be the chief's brother. We'll have to kill the Mountie to escape jail.

[Dave]

No, no.

[Storekeeper]

The Injuns would mob us.

[Dave]

We'd Never leave here alive. Leave your gun alone.

[Clay Banham]

You have a better idea?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Clay Banham]

Yeah.

[Dave]

We'll try to bluff our way out of this.

[Narrator]

The mount.

[Dave]

He hasn't found Johnny. We'll be all right. The wounded Indian's unconscious. As long as he stays that way, we have nothing to worry about.

[Storekeeper]

Sergeant Preston. A good thing you come here. Lonak shot.

[Sergeant Preston]

I know. Munalak. I met a wigo. He told me. Has Lonak explained what happened?

[Storekeeper]

No, Chief. With Lonak now, maybe Lonok be conscious. Soon we go bring Johnny Elk to village.

[Sergeant Preston]

Johnny Elk is dead, Monalaq. I found him in his cabin.

[Storekeeper]

Johnny Depp?

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes. You two are strangers here, aren't you?

[Dave]

Yeah.

[Clay Banham]

Yeah.

[Dave]

I'm Clay Banham and this is my partner, Dave.

[Clay Banham]

We wanted to go through the white water, but this engine says there's no one to take us.

[Sergeant Preston]

Changed your plans rather suddenly, didn't you, huh? You were heading for Lime City when I saw you. Well, I'll take your guns.

[Johnny Elk]

Why?

[Dave]

We haven't done anything.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll return your weapons as soon as you've been searched.

[Clay Banham]

Searched? Why should we be searched?

[Sergeant Preston]

Johnny Oak's cabin was ransacked by the thieves who stole his gold. Since you're the only white men in the canyon, I'll have to search you.

[Clay Banham]

Now, hold on.

[Dave]

We have gold, but it's ours.

[Sergeant Preston]

One alike. Search the packs.

[Storekeeper]

Please search them.

[Dave]

Hey, now wait a minute. You can't prove that gold isn't ours.

[Storekeeper]

Me make folks for Johnny from Caribou sweet skins. Me marked oaks.

[Dave]

That's right.

[Storekeeper]

Me know Johnny's poke when me see him. Look, Sergeant Preston. Here.

[Johnny Elk]

Poke.

[Sergeant Preston]

Is that Johnny's poke?

[Storekeeper]

Here, picture of elk. Me put on skin for Johnny.

[Sergeant Preston]

That's all the evidence we'll need. You two are under arrest in the name of the Crown Sage.

[Dave]

You bunman jughead. You told me we could get away with it.

[Clay Banham]

We would have if we'd been able to get through the rapids.

[Dave]

It's your fault we didn't. If you hadn't shot that engine outside the cabin last night, he'd be able to handle a canoe.

[Clay Banham]

I hadn't shot him, he'd have warned Johnny.

[Storekeeper]

You shoot Lonax?

[Dave]

That's right. He shot him. You weak, big squealer.

[Clay Banham]

As long as you thought you'd get some gold, you're willing to go along with me. Now you're trying to blame me for everything.

[Storekeeper]

You're just as gilly as I am. You shoot Lonok, me kill you.

[Sergeant Preston]

Steady monologue. These two will Be punished for what they've done. How we know them paid attend their trial in Dawson.

[Storekeeper]

We do that.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll put the handcuffs on these two and then we'll go back to Lime City. From there we'll go to Dawson.

[Storekeeper]

Indians be plenty sad. Johnny a good friend. Now him dead.

[Sergeant Preston]

Well all miss Johnny Monalac. I came to the canyon to help him make out a will.

[Storekeeper]

Will?

[Sergeant Preston]

That's right. He wanted to provide for your tribe after his death. When I stopped at his cabin this morning, I found a letter addressed to me saying he wanted to leave his gold in trust for you so that the tribe would always have food, clothing and shelter. I'll take the letter to Dawson and turn it over to the court. I'm sure Johnny's wishes will be fulfilled if there are no other claimants.

[Storekeeper]

Johnny Elk good friend. Me go with you now, Sergeant Preston. Maybe me help put killers in jail.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll not need any help moon alike. But you're welcome to come with us before we leave. I'll speak to the Chief. Be glad to know we've captured the men who wounded Lonak.

[Storekeeper]

Oh, Chief, come this way now.

[Sergeant Preston]

Good. We'll be on our way as soon as I've told him that this case is closed.

[Narrator]

Sergeant Preston will return in just a moment with a word about our next exciting adventure. Christmas is in the air and good.

[Inspector]

Food is on the table.

[Narrator]

Yes, for a holiday breakfast treat for the whole family these mornings or any morning. You can't beat delicious crisp Quaker Puffed Rice or Quaker Puffed Wheat topped with milk or cream and fruit.

[Inspector]

Everybody goes for the toasty nut like flavor of good natural grain.

[Narrator]

It's a sun ripened natural flavor that old Mother Nature put into it.

[Inspector]

Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice are never coated with factory sweetening.

[Narrator]

And you mothers know that some members of your family like their cereal not.

[Inspector]

So sweet and others like it very sweet.

[Narrator]

Well, here's the beauty of Quaker Puffed Rice and Quaker Puffed Wheat.

[Inspector]

Your family can sweeten them with sugar just the way they like them.

[Narrator]

So you mothers can't miss when you serve the one shot from gun.

[Inspector]

Yes, Quaker Puffed Wheat and rice are exploded up to eight times normal size to make them extra crisp and tender.

[Narrator]

And they give your whole family extra food values of restored natural grain amounts of vitamin B1, niacin and iron.

[Inspector]

So look at your store tomorrow for the big red and blue packages with the sealed inner lining that keeps Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice as crisp as can be.

[Narrator]

And now Here is Sergeant Preston.

[Sergeant Preston]

Sergeant Preston reporting for duty, Inspector.

[Dave]

Sergeant, there's a girl on the trail heading north for the mine her father located before he died.

[Sergeant Preston]

Where's that, Inspector?

[Dave]

I don't know, Sergeant. Neither does she. But I want you to find them both, her and the mine.

[Sergeant Preston]

Yes, sir.

[Dave]

I want you to find her first, Sergeant. Because if you don't, she'll die. She'll never survive the cold and the.

[Constable Bill Cherry]

Perils of the trail.

[Sergeant Preston]

I'll find her, sir. Come on, King.

[Narrator]

A foolhardy girl braves the terrible dangers of the blizzard swept Yukon trail. Followed by two murdering claim jumpers bent on her destruction. Sergeant Preston starts in pursuit of the girl, not knowing that death awaits both of them at the end of the trail. Don't miss this next exciting adventure. These radio dramas, a feature of Sergeant Preston of the Yukon Incorporated, are created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendall Campbell Enterprises, 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 at the same time by Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed Rice. The breakfast cereal shot from gun Only 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. Listen tomorrow at the same time to the Green Hornet brought to you by the drink that makes you feel fresh again. Delicious Orange Crush. This is J. Michael wishing you goodbye, good luck and good health from Quaker Puffed Wheat and Quaker Puffed 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 the following ranch hand 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 copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.