Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Fair Weather Friend Matter (EP4975)

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

Episode: "Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Fair Weather Friend Matter" (EP4975)

Date: May 15, 2026
Host: Adam Graham

---

Episode Overview

In this installment, Adam Graham presents another classic episode of "Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar" — a radio mystery beloved for its blend of suspense, action, and folksy humor. Titled "The Fair Weather Friend Matter" (original air date: April 12, 1959), the story sees Johnny Dollar summoned to small-town Oklahoma, where old acquaintances, insurance intrigue, and murder intersect. As always, Graham offers context and listener interaction before and after the radio drama, focusing on what makes this episode memorable for fans of golden-age detective stories.

---

Key Plot Points & Discussion

1. A Mysterious Call from Sidewinder Wilson

• (02:11) Sidewinder Wilson, an eccentric character from Bumswang, Oklahoma, calls Johnny Dollar with a cryptic invitation, alluding to an insurance-related issue he won't explain over the phone.
  • Notable Quote:
    • “Well, Johnny, I think I could show you something that’ll make your eyes pop out all over your head.” – Sidewinder Wilson (02:49)

2. The Fairweather Bank Robbery and Durango’s Connections

• (05:24–06:55) Johnny reports to George Reed at Floyd's of England (the insurer) to get briefed. They review the murder of a bank messenger in nearby Fairweather, Oklahoma, and the curious circumstance that the stolen securities were later returned anonymously.
  • Durango, a wealthy oilman with a penchant for cash, carries insurance benefiting his niece Carol Dalhart — a character both Johnny and Sidewinder are fond of.
  • Notable Banter:
    • "That Carol's a living doll...If I were to ever think seriously of getting married...Well, believe me." – Johnny Dollar (05:55)

3. Arriving at Bumswang: Eccentric Hospitality & Local Color

• (08:39) Johnny reaches the rural ranch, where Sidewinder welcomes him with mock gunplay, reflecting the colorful, comedic tone woven into the episode.
  • Memorable Moment:
    • Sidewinder demonstrates his “good hands” as caretaker by threatening Johnny with rifle play, quickly turning the confrontation into a comic greeting rather than danger.

4. The Case Unfolds: Sidewinder’s Admission & the Snake Incident

• (12:01–13:10) Inside the house, Sidewinder claims responsibility for returning the stolen securities, raising Johnny’s suspicions momentarily until a real rattlesnake appears, adding local realism and suspense.
  • Notable Scene:
    • Sidewinder coolly shoots the rattler, then brags about his collection of 427 rattles (13:10).
    • "No wonder they call you Sidewinder." – Johnny Dollar (13:10)

5. Suspects and a Makeshift Investigation

• (14:09–15:29) Sidewinder and Carol reveal their makeshift plan:
  • The suspected killer is Barney Gifford— the bank messenger’s no-good nephew and beneficiary. Carol aided by distracting Barney while Sidewinder found the hidden securities at Barney’s house.
  • Sidewinder lassoed Barney and locked him up rather than inform the police, due to animosity with local law enforcement and a desire for direct action.

6. Romantic Tension and Comic Relief

• (14:43–15:55) Johnny and Carol’s mutual affection is playfully exposed by Sidewinder (threatening to “shotgun marry” them if Durango finds out), offering a lighter counterpoint to the darker elements.
  • Notable Interaction:
    • "He’s liable to shotgun you into it if he catches you around here...And don’t you try to tell me you wouldn’t like being married to her, too, Sidewinder." – Johnny Dollar & Sidewinder (14:31–14:39)
    • Carol playfully challenges Johnny’s commitment-phobia.

7. Danger Returns: The Villain Strikes Back

• (19:09–21:18) News arrives that Barney Gifford has escaped and may be after Sidewinder for revenge. Tension escalates as the group braces for confrontation at the ranch.
  • Memorable Moment:
    • The house is put on alert, and plan is made for Carol to go to the police, which she resists.

8. Showdown and Resolution

• (22:00–23:53) A tense showdown unfolds:
  • Barney storms the house with a rifle, holding Johnny, Carol, and Sidewinder at gunpoint. As Barney is about to shoot, Johnny distracts him by referencing the morning’s rattlesnake incident.
  • The sound of a rattler (created with Sidewinder’s collection of rattles) distracts Barney, allowing Johnny and Sidewinder the chance to overpower him.
  • Notable Quote:
    • "I’m sure glad I saved these rattles, Johnny." – Sidewinder (24:00)

9. Epilogue: Departure and Lighthearted Closure

• (24:17–24:39) Johnny laments having to leave Carol behind, as Durango returns — threatening to bring a preacher for an impromptu wedding.
  • Carol resists Sidewinder’s matchmaking, and Johnny submits his expense account in classic Dollar fashion.

---

Notable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• Sidewinder’s Coded Summons:

  • "Well, Johnny, I think I could show you something that'll make your eyes pop out all over your head." – Sidewinder Wilson (02:49)

• Romantic Teasing:

  • "If Durango finds that you've been out here and went back to Hartford without hitching up with Carol...he's liable to shotgun you into it." – Sidewinder Wilson (14:31)

• Snake Heroics:

  • "Easy now...whilst I get a bead on him with this thirty thirty—beep!—right in one eye, now t'other. And I'll just cut off his rattles and add 'em to my collection." – Sidewinder Wilson (12:44)

• The Rattlesnake Ruse:

  • "I'm sure glad I saved these rattles, Johnny." – Sidewinder Wilson (24:00)
  • "Yeah, so am I." – Johnny Dollar (24:05)

---

Host Adam Graham’s Commentary & Listener Feedback

(28:11–31:27)

• Adam comments on the episode’s strengths:
  • Character-driven storytelling:
    • "Its strength is just having entertaining characters and Jonstone having a good time playing with those characters..." (28:17)
    • The plot is more about adventure and personality than a tight mystery; entertaining but less intricate in terms of crime-solving.
  • The Rattlesnake Payoff:
    • Adam admits being surprised and pleased by the callback to the rattlesnake ruse, which resolved the main threat.
• Listener feedback:
  • Comments from YouTube about vintage commercials and cultural references ("Pepsi" jingles, Flamingo Hotel history).
  • Adam reflects on changes in advertising over the decades, with nostalgia for classic jingles.

---

Episode Structure & Timeline

| Segment | Timestamp | |-----------------------------------------|------------| | Call from Sidewinder, Setup | 02:11–03:31 | | At insurance office/Background | 05:24–07:00 | | On the ranch/arrival antics | 08:39–09:20 | | Exposition: Murder & Suspects | 12:01–14:39 | | Johnny and Carol's playful romance | 14:43–16:32 | | Barney’s Escape & Threat | 19:09–21:18 | | Showdown with Barney Gifford | 22:00–23:53 | | Epilogue, departure, expense account | 24:17–25:05 | | Adam Graham’s review & feedback | 28:11–31:27 |

---

Summary: Episode Tone & Appeal

The episode excels in character warmth and regional flavor; Sidewinder’s folksy humor and Carol and Johnny's flirtations stand out as memorable, even as the mystery itself plays second fiddle to atmosphere and banter. The rattlesnake motif threads the adventure together, culminating in an inventive, tension-breaking resolution.

For fans of old-time radio and lovers of character-driven mysteries, "The Fair Weather Friend Matter" delivers humor, suspense, and nostalgia — proof that sometimes the charm of the journey is the main reward.

---

Transcript

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

A vacation rental shouldn't come with surprises. It should come with verbo care and 247 life support. If the hot tub's broken, that's a verbo care thing. If my teenager starts calling me Leslie, that's a family thing. Leslie Verbocare and 247 Life Support. If you know you verbo terms apply. Seevirbo.com trust for details. 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.

[Johnny Dollar]

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.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a quote@liberty mutual.com or with your local agent.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Liberty.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Liberty. Liberty.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome to the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio from Boise, Idaho. This is your host, Adam Graham. In a moment, we're going to bring you this week's episode of yours truly, Johnny Doler. But first, I want to encourage you to. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software. And remember, when making your travel plans, check johnnydollerair.com johnnydollerair.com is our Priceline affiliate links. So part of the purchase price supports the great detectives of Old Time Radio at no additional cost to you. So remember, when making travel plans, check johnnydoller air.com first. But now, from April 12, 1959, here is the fair weather friend matter.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It's time now.

[Johnny Dollar]

Horde

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Johnny$Hi there, Johnny. This here is Sidewinder Wilson.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, well, what can I. Who did you say?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Sidewinder Wilson. You know, out here in Bumswang, Oklahoma.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, wait a minute. You mean that old friend of Durango, Laramie Delhart?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I sure do. Unless you've forgotten it. I'm the man that helped you find Durango. That he disappeared.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sure, of course you did, Sidewinder. If it hadn't been for you, he'd never have found the old coat.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, sir.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, what's on your mind?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, if you should just happen to mosey out here to bum spun. Well, Johnny, I think I could show you something that make your eyes pop out all over your head.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder, is this. Is this an insurance matter?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Now, you don't think I'd be calling on you if it wasn't, do you?

[Johnny Dollar]

What's it all about?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I'll tell you when you get here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'll be waiting for you at Durango's ranch soon, John.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, wait a minute, Sidewinder.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Bob Bailey in the intriguing adventures of the man with the action packed expense Account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Narrator/Announcer]

With your permission, we'd like to talk shop for just a moment. CBS Radio Shop. Recently, one of the foremost publications in the broadcasting field pulled 465 critics and editors. The question which radio network programs do you rate tops? When the answers from these 465 experts were tabulated, the final ratings were, to put it mildly, overwhelmingly one sided. Total honors accorded CBS Radio programs exceeded those of all the other networks combined. Let's put it another way. The final verdict of hundreds of critics, reviewers and editors was that CBS Radio had more top shows than all other networks put together. CBS Radio was pleased, naturally, at the result of the poll, but not surprised. Great programming is no accident. It's long been a policy of this network to devote every effort to maintaining highest broadcast standards, to making sure CBS Radio listeners hear the best entertainment, the most authoritative information. Whatever listening fair is for you, you can be sure you're hearing the best when you're tuned to CBS Radio. And now, act one of yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Johnny Dollar]

Expense account submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar to Floyd's of England. North American office, Hartford, Connecticut. Following is an account of expenses incurred during my investigation of the Fair Weather Friend matter. All of Durango's insurance was handled by Floyd's of England. So that would have to be the company that Sidewinder was talking about. Expense account item $1.20 for a taxi to Floyd's headquarters in Hartford in the office of George Reed.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, this is a switch, Johnny. You're coming here.

[Johnny Dollar]

George, I just got a call from that town out in Oklahoma with the unlikely name of Bum Sponge.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Old Indian name, I understand it means bad spring, bad water.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, it was from a friend of Durango, Laramie Dalhart's. An old character by the name of Sidewinder Wilson.

[Narrator/Announcer]

You know, of course, that Durango was here a few days ago here in Hartford.

[Johnny Dollar]

And he didn't drop in to see me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

He dropped in to pay the $4,500 premium on that insurance he carries for the benefit of his niece, Carol Dalhart. You must think an awful lot of that girl.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, well, who wouldn't? What, George? That Carol's a living doll. If I were ever to think seriously of getting married. Well, believe me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, what's the hitch? Does old Durango object?

[Johnny Dollar]

Object? Far from it. Hey, tell me, did he pay off that premium in the usual brand new hundred dollar bill?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, and as usual he peeled them off a roll that was big enough to choke a horse. Johnny, why that man carries so much cash around with him. Now, what did this fellow Wilson call you about?

[Johnny Dollar]

Sideline it wouldn't tell me. Well, now, wait.

[Narrator/Announcer]

There was a robbery murder case out there a while back in the little town of Fairweather. Ah, that's a few miles north of Enid, Oklahoma.

[Johnny Dollar]

What happened?

[Narrator/Announcer]

It was the messenger carrying some negotiable securities to the small bank there in Fairweather.

[Johnny Dollar]

Ah, you get stuck for insurance on both the man and the securities.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Only on the messenger the securities were returned.

[Johnny Dollar]

By whom?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Neither the bank nor the police out there ever found out.

[Johnny Dollar]

Funny. Do you suppose that's what Sidewinder called me about?

[Narrator/Announcer]

There's only one way to find out, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Which is to say that Floyds of England will pay my expenses.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well now, within reason of course.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Huh?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Why kid about it, Johnny, that freewheeling expense account of yours.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, George, you sound as though you don't trust me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, of course I do.

[Johnny Dollar]

Ah, well, you shouldn't, huh, George? I'll be in touch. Expense account item 2. 9000, 730. Transportation. The plane dropped me off at Enid, Oklahoma shortly after 6pm Item three, $2 even for some food. Item four, a 50 buck deposit on a drive your own car. I drove north on Highway 81. Then after some 27 miles and after crossing the Salt Fork of the Arkansas, which much to my surprise had a trickle of water in it, I turned left on the rough dirt road leading to Bump Spot. Finally there it was. The same two or three acres of poor, barren sandy soil. The ramshackle house and the remains of a barn leaning tiredly on the timbers that helped to prop it up. And on in front were the same two sad looking cows, the old and weather beaten horse, a friendly, mangy toothless hound who shook himself as he got up out of the dust and proceeded to assert his authority. And I still couldn't figure why Durango, who was worth millions in oil royalties, had ever chosen to settle down on this lonely, desolate spot. And yet, thanks to Carol, his attractive niece, the inside of that huge unpainted house was clean, modern, well furnished. I wondered if Carol would show up, but I saw no sign of the sleek convertible she always drove. Swinging open the sagging wire gate, I wondered if the agent Maxwell parked at one side belonged to Sidewinder Wilson. I didn't have to wonder for long.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Thank you.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hey, you crazy old coot.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yippee, Sidewinder.

[Johnny Dollar]

What the. Sam. Hell's the matter with you?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, welcome to Bung Sponganny.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, listen, you wild old character, put that thing down or I'll start throwing some lead around myself with that little.38

[Sidewinder Wilson]

lemon squeezer of yours.

[Johnny Dollar]

Why, you.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

No, sir, sonny, you wouldn't stand a chance.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, what's the big idea?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I just wanted to show you that when Durango leaves me in charge of his ranch, he leaves it in good hands. And also, I wanted you to feel real welcome around here. Now, how are you, Johnny boy?

[Johnny Dollar]

Still in one piece, no thanks to you. The crazy way you and Durango have of making somebody feel welcome around here. Where is he, by the way?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

First he went to Hartford to pay up on his insurance. Then he flew down to Washington.

[Johnny Dollar]

Ah, what for?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, to pay up on his income taxes. He wanted to make sure he got them in the right hand.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, now, he didn't have to go to Washington for that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, he figures he makes it easier that way. He just carries along a big bundle of money and lets them take whatever they think is right.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, no. Now listen, sidewinder. Did you call me in connection with that bank messenger who was killed down in Fairweather?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right, John.

[Johnny Dollar]

I understand the securities he carried were returned to the bank. Yeah, sure.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

They were sealed up in a big envelope and laid on the front doorstep of that bank. And what I figure, Johnny, you figure

[Johnny Dollar]

that if I can find out who sent him back the securities, I'll have a lead on the killer.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right. In. Johnny. I know who sent him back.

[Johnny Dollar]

You do?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

You sure?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, who, Sidewinder?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Me. Johnny. What is your me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Act two of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment. Are you going to write that letter today or put it off until tomorrow? Or maybe the day after? How about that spring suit you plan to have altered? Will you take it to the tailor tomorrow morning, bright and early? Or will the week somehow glide by while the suit just hangs on in your closet? If you're a confessed procrastinator, you're not unique. The putting off habit can be mild or chronic. But some matters, serious matters, are highly dangerous to assign to manana. One of the most important of these is getting protection from crippling killing polio. When life saving Salk Vaccine was first introduced in 1955, it was hailed as a major medical discovery. Yet at the beginning of this current year, some 98 million Americans, the majority of our population had not received even one inoculation. Why had all these people failed to take the simple measures necessary to gain protection from polio if you were among them this year? Don't take a chance. Don't put off those polio shots any longer. Get in touch with your family doctor or local health department right away. And now act two of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the Fairweather friend matter.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Come on the house, Johnny, and I'll tell you about it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Just let me get this straight. Sidewinder, the bank messenger down there in Fairweather was held up and murdered?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

The securities he carried were stolen by the killer. Then they were returned to the bank.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That's right. And I'm the one who returned them.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder. You? Now look, don't tell me that you're the one.

[Carol Dalhart]

Me?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You think that I'm the one that killed that messenger?

[Johnny Dollar]

I didn't say that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, that's what you were thinking, ain't it?

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, you said yourself that whoever turn those.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Whoever left him back at the bank. No, just you. Stand real still, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, come on now. Put that thing down. Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Move none.

[Johnny Dollar]

Look, would you listen to me?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And maybe you even better stop talking or that Sidewinder rattlesnake coming toward you might take it into his head.

[Johnny Dollar]

Easy now. Oh yeah, I can hear him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Easy now. Whilst I get a bead on him with this sturdy a beep right in one eye, not t'. Other. And I'll just cut off his rattles and add em to my collection.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh brother. Thanks. No wonder they called you Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah, that's a 427th rattle. So I've tooken off these foremans. I just don't like em, Johnny. They ain't like Diamondback. These Sidewinders around here'll sneak up on a man just like that dirty snake that killed the bank messenger. And you know why he done it, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

You still haven't told me who he is.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

It was to collect that insurance on him, that's who.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh yes sir.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

The man that killed him was his hair, what you call his Benue Fisher.

[Johnny Dollar]

How do you know, Sidewinder?

[Carol Dalhart]

Because I live down to Fairweather.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

That is when I ain't up here looking after Durango's place. Yeah, and that's how come I knowed that clawed Needles that was a messenger. Left his insurance to that no count nephew of his and that Barney Gifford. Sit down.

[Johnny Dollar]

Barney Gifford, huh?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah. So what I done was talk it over with Durango and Carol Delhart.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where is Carol Sidewinder, I've been waiting for you.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Dash that, Johnny. Oh, she'll be around.

[Johnny Dollar]

Good.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You're kind of sweet on her, ain't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

Wow.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Now, don't you try to fool me, Johnny boy. And you know how she feels about you, too. And if you don't think Durango knows, well, I'll tell you this.

[Johnny Dollar]

You say you talked it over with.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'll tell you this, Johnny Durango finds that you've been out here and went back to Hartford without hitching up with Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

Sidewinder, wouldn't you?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, I'll tell you this.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

He's liable to shotgun you into it if he catches you around here. And don't you try to tell me

[Johnny Dollar]

you wouldn't like being married to her, too, Sidewinder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Okay, okay. So anyhow, me and Durango and.

[Johnny Dollar]

Carol.

[Carol Dalhart]

Carol, Johnny. Oh, glad to see you, Carol.

[Johnny Dollar]

I. I'm glad to see you.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, then don't you stand there. Give me a kiss.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, you think I need an great invitation?

[Carol Dalhart]

Come here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, hi.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, don't stop, Johnny. It's been a long time.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

If Durango could see this.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, drop that saddle there.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yes, sir. He'd have that shotgun out so fast. Oh, it's been an awful long time, Jo.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, too long.

[Carol Dalhart]

I thought you were never coming back here.

[Johnny Dollar]

I'm here, huh?

[Carol Dalhart]

So let's make up for lost time.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, why not?

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, come on now.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Come on, you kid.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, it's good to see you, Johnny.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Don't you want to hear the rest of what I was? Now, look at here. If you don't cut loose from each other there, you know what I'll do? I walk right out of here and

[Carol Dalhart]

I'll go back fair with her and. And.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And I'll send a telegram to old Durango. And I'll tell him you two are making out like this all alone inside of his house. And if that don't bring him out here to get you two married.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, why don't you mind your own business?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I can't.

[Carol Dalhart]

I. I tell you, old goat, why don't you go somewhere and get lost?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm going right down to Fairweather and sending my telegraph.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no, no, no. Just settle down there, Sidewinder.

[Carol Dalhart]

Ah, settle down, John, with you anytime, any place.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, Carol, you're the only girl I know who makes me wish sometimes I was the marrying kind.

[Carol Dalhart]

But now, listen, I'll bet I can make you the marrying kind. Johnny, you like to give me a chance, huh?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm leaving right now.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, you aren't Sidewinder.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, let him go.

[Johnny Dollar]

Just be sensible for a minute, William.

[Carol Dalhart]

I was trying to, John.

[Johnny Dollar]

I mean about this murder case.

[Carol Dalhart]

And when we finish talking about it, we'll see. Oh, then let me tell you about it. It won't take me so long. And, Sidewinder, you stop making those silly eyes or I'll let you have one right between them.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I still think I ought to leave.

[Carol Dalhart]

So do I. As long as you're already. Well. Well, listen, Johnny. I'm listening. When Mr. Needles was killed, Sidewinder wanted them to make him a cop down there in Fairweather.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Or even just a deputy so as I could go out and hunt for that killer. Claude Needles was a friend of mine.

[Carol Dalhart]

But the police said no. They didn't need him, didn't want him.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

So that made me so.

[Carol Dalhart]

So we talked it over about who could ever do a thing like that.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And that's when I remembered Barney Gifford would get the money from Claude's insurance.

[Carol Dalhart]

I told Sidewinder I'd have a date with Barney and that would give him a chance to go through Barney's house and look for the security.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And I found him, Johnny, under a loose board in the floor.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yes.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

So when he come home, I lassoed him and I tied him up and I took him and locked him up in the two on my place.

[Johnny Dollar]

You didn't turn him over to the police?

[Carol Dalhart]

All the chief in that little old hick town told Sidewinder that if he interfered in the case, he'd lock him up.

[Johnny Dollar]

That's what he said.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, look, nevertheless, Durango, just before he left to go to Hartford, always has to be there right on time. You know, with that insurance payment.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, I know.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, that's when Durango said to call you up on the phone.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yep.

[Carol Dalhart]

Sidewinder, huh? I thought that was your idea.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

No, Durango's. And also for getting Johnny out here to see you again. Why, sure.

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, how does Durango think he is trying to run my life that way? What kind of a trick is that to pull on? Just you wait until he gets back here.

[Johnny Dollar]

Is that my cue to leave these parts, Carol?

[Carol Dalhart]

Well, it certainly. Oh, no, Course not, Johnny, but.

[Johnny Dollar]

All right. Now, Sidewinder, where is this Barney Gifford?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Locked up in my tool shed.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, who's looking after him?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Oh, Pete Willie. I told him not to let on to the police.

[Johnny Dollar]

You sure he can handle a man like Gifford?

[Carol Dalhart]

Yeah. Sidewinders.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I don't see why.

[Johnny Dollar]

Hey, look, maybe we'd better drive on down there.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, sure, sure, but we lie into that for him. Probably Durango saying to hold on to you, Johnny. He's probably on his way.

[Johnny Dollar]

If that's Durango, you tell him I've left.

[Carol Dalhart]

Hello. Now, you don't mean that, Johnny. I bet Durango really would make you marry me without either that. Johnny.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Look, Johnny. Carol.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, why don't you stay on that? I wonder what's the matter.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Listen. That was old Pete.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Barney Scarloch liked to kill old Pete.

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, no.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And now Barney's coming here. Coming for me to kill me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Act Three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. In a moment.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Be sociable, look smarter Keep up to

[Carol Dalhart]

date with Etsy Drink light, refreshing Stay young and fair and debonair Be sociable, have a Pepsi.

[Narrator/Announcer]

When friends drop in let your hospitality show you're sociable in the modern manner Pepsi, you know, is the favorite of

[Johnny Dollar]

the smart and young at heart Be

[Sidewinder Wilson]

sociable upsmart Keep up to date with

[Carol Dalhart]

Pepsi Drink light, refreshing Pepsi Stay young and fair and devonair Be sociable, have a Pepsi.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Have you tried a Pepsi lately? And now, act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Johnny Dollar]

Okay, then. If Barney Gifford's coming, we'll be ready for him. We'll Sidewinder. You aren't afraid of him, are you?

[Carol Dalhart]

He's a bad one, Johnny.

[Johnny Dollar]

But if Sidewinder was able to subdue him before.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, I. I caught him off guard. Johnny, he didn't have no gun then, but he has now. He took whole pieces.

[Carol Dalhart]

And Barney's a deadly shot. It's the only good thing you can say about it.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

And don't you see, it's dark outside now. If we stay around here, inside the house, we'll be like a flock of sitting duck.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, but I don't think we'll stay inside.

[Carol Dalhart]

You mean we've just run away from you?

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no. How long ago did he get away from Pete's?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Well, Pete says it was more than an hour ago.

[Johnny Dollar]

Then we haven't any time to waste.

[Carol Dalhart]

What are you gonna do, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

I know what you're gonna do. Carol.

[Carol Dalhart]

Yeah?

[Johnny Dollar]

Get out of here. Go on back to Enid. Tell the police. By the time they can get up here, Sidewinder and I will either have things under control or, well, then they can take over.

[Carol Dalhart]

Why don't you phone the police?

[Johnny Dollar]

Because I'm telling you to go on down there.

[Carol Dalhart]

You're just trying to get me away from here, aren't you?

[Johnny Dollar]

That's right.

[Carol Dalhart]

No, Johnny. I can shoot just as good as you and Sidewinder. And there's plenty of guns in the back room.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, Carol, that doesn't make any difference.

[Carol Dalhart]

You think I'm gonna leave you here with a killer after old Sidewinder? And if Barty finds you with him, he'll try to kill you.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Carol, would you just.

[Carol Dalhart]

I won't go, Johnny. I won't leave.

[Johnny Dollar]

Okay, okay. We're just wasting time. I haven't seen any car lights out on the road. But that doesn't mean that. That's right, mister. It doesn't mean a thing.

[Carol Dalhart]

Him.

[Johnny Dollar]

The front door had been pushed open by the barrel of a high powered rifle that slowly fanned the three of us. I knew that if I made a move to draw my handgun, if Sidewinder took a step toward his 30. 30 on the table. And if Barney was the excellent shot that Carol said he was. All right, put your hands up and come walking out this door.

[Carol Dalhart]

Listen, Barney, get it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Do like I see. Come on, Carol. Sidewinder.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Come on.

[Carol Dalhart]

Come on.

[Johnny Dollar]

Don't try anything.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

All right, Barney.

[Johnny Dollar]

Not so brave now that I got the advantage, are you, Sidewinder?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

All right. If you gotta kill somebody, kill me.

[Johnny Dollar]

You leave them alone now that they know all about me. No, sir. I'm gonna kill all of you like I killed old Pete. Now stop.

[Carol Dalhart]

You keep your dirty hands off of me.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

You keep them up.

[Johnny Dollar]

Carol. So you're not carrying a gun. I know that Sidewinder never carries it, but you do, don't you, mister? Thanks. I think I'll use it to kill you. So if you want to put your hands down to pray outside. Winder.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yes, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

You think maybe this is retribution for that killing you did today?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Killing, Johnny?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, when I first got here. You remember?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Oh, I don't know what you're talking

[Johnny Dollar]

about, mister, but I'm not gonna waste any time.

[Carol Dalhart]

Marnie, shut up.

[Johnny Dollar]

Cal, you're going to go first. All right. Now listen, Gifford. And you, mister. And last of all, Sidewine. What's that?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

It's your snake.

[Carol Dalhart]

It's a rattler. It's back up inside one.

[Johnny Dollar]

No, no, it's over next to Barney. Where?

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Where? I can't see it. Where is it? I'll kill it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where is it?

[Carol Dalhart]

Oh, but that. That snake.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, thanks, Sidewinder. I'm sure.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

I'm sure glad I saved these rattles, Johnny.

[Carol Dalhart]

What?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, so am I.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

But I never would have remembered them if you hadn't reminded me about killing that snake.

[Johnny Dollar]

You know something? I hated to leave that place. To leave Carol is what I really mean. But there was another phone call. Sidewinder answered it. And yep, it was from Durango. Phoning from Enid. Durango was so tickled to learn I was still around that he promised to come out to the ranch as fast as he could.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah, sure. Just as soon as he can pick up the preacher.

[Carol Dalhart]

Sidewinder.

[Johnny Dollar]

Well, much as I love that gal. Well, expense account total, including the trip back to Hartford and mileage on the rental car. 20350. Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Our star will return in just a moment.

[Johnny Dollar]

Be careful, you're going to land in the bathtub. Who's driving this flying saucer, you or me? Well, what do you see? Oh, germs. Millions and millions of germs. Sure, here on Earth, disease germs and viruses live in bathrooms. Wait, here comes a lady. She's putting a dash of Lysol in with those suds and she's mopping the floor. Wow, look at those germs and viruses. Drop dead. Boy, are you stupid. I thought all Martians knew that Lysol brand disinfectant kills disease, germs and many deadly viruses on contact. Disinfects from one cleaning to the next as nothing else can. That's right. I remember my seven grandmothers saying Lysol makes your favorite cleaner work better. Including many that claim to sanitize. I'm sorry you learned to speak English by listening to commercials. And Lysol comes in regular or pine fragrance for as little as 29 cents. How much is that Martian money?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now here is our star to tell you about next week's story.

[Johnny Dollar]

Next week? Well, getting away from Durango Laramy Dart isn't as easy as you might think. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yours truly, Johnny Dollar, starring Bob Bailey, originates in Hollywood and is written, produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in our cast were Virginia Greg, Junius Matthews, G. Stanley Jones, James McCallion and Bill James. Be sure to join us next week, same time and station for another exciting story of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. This is Dan Cubberly speaking. Suspense is next over the CBS Radio Network, W Albany, New York. 10, 10. 10. Yes. 10 hours of price shattering bargains at Henry s. Mantel Furniture, 343 River Street, Troy. This merchandise must be sold at once at savings to you of up to 87%. Mantel's was unable to extend their Latham store lease. So the stock from the Latham store has been moved to Mantel's main store in Troy. Save on famous brand merchandise, Haywood, Wakefield, Crayler, Simmons, Norge, Motorola and many more. Buy a $339.95 two piece living room suite for $199.95 or a $34.95 famous make inner spring mattress for 1788 or a modern bedroom set regularly 259.95 now 139.95 this tremendous sale at Henry S. Mantel furniture begins Monday 6pm to 11pm and Tuesday 6pm to 11:00pm the store will be closed during the day to mark down merchandise and arrange stock. Remember, there's no money down at Henry s. Mantel Furniture, 343 River Street, Troy

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

A vacation rental shouldn't come with surprises. It should come with verbo Care and 24. 7 Life Support. If the hot tub's broken, that's a verbo care thing. If my teenager starts calling me Leslie, that's a family thing. Leslie Verbo Care and 24. 7 Life Support. If you know you Verbo terms apply. See verbo.comtrust for details.

[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. It turns out that that reference to Bum Spum in the last episode was more than just a callback, but kind of setting up this episode. This is another one of those where I think that its strength is just having entertaining characters and Jonstone having a good time playing with those characters, but kind of to the detriment of the mystery or more like the adventure. In this case, you end up with essentially a very abbreviated bet with dollar battling the bad guy. However, I did like the Rattlesnake callback. I had not put any significance in the rattles in the pocket, so I was pleasantly surprised the way that played out. Still, I do wish we'd gotten a little bit more plot or action, but I guess you can't have everything all right, listener comments and feedback now and we have some comments on YouTube regarding the like me matter. Listener writes the Flamingo Hotel and Casino was originally opened in 1946 by mobster Bugsy Siegel. I just watched a 12 episode documentary series about Las Vegas two months ago. Thanks so much. Appreciate the background information. Jeffrey writes so quaint. I never heard that version of a Pepsi advertisement. Funny how those older commutes shows use singings and tunes. We don't see that nowadays. I have to admit that I am not a connoisseur of modern commercials, but those I've seen you I don't tend to hear those anymore. And it's not like those were something that you only heard in the 50s and 60s. I remember hearing the commercial jingles into the 80s and 90s back when I was a kid. You know, the Best part of waking up is Folgers in your cup. Just for the taste of it, Diet Coke. Have you had your break today? Those are the ones that just, you know, pop into my head. And now I've started on replay. Although I don't think those jingles were quite as good as the be sociable Pepsi ad. Well, now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Rebecca the cat lady. Patreon supporter since August 2024, currently supporting the podcast at the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thanks so much for your support and that will do it for today. If you're enjoying the podcast, please follow us using your favorite podcast software and be sure to rate and review the podcast wherever you download it for from. We'll be back next Friday with another episode of yours truly, Johnny Dollar. But join us back here tomorrow as we give way to the great adventurers of Old Time Radio and Counterspy.

[Johnny Dollar]

Where the matter, Billy? You scared? No, I just want to make sure nobody's around. Get the paint. Come on, Billy. We ain't got all night. Maybe we shouldn't paint a store, bud. Suppose the color, Billy. We join the Young Defenders to show guys like Old Man Green. We don't want them in this part of town, right? Yeah, I guess so.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Well, then, come on.

[Johnny Dollar]

Whole store window with paint. And then we'll pour the rest of it in the doorway. Show this all local. He can't mess around with the Young Defenders. And let us stop painting quick.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

Give me the small brush. Going to make a picture of here.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Boy. Boy, stop painting my store. Oh, man Green, I've got you. Please don't. Big heroes. You come in the night to spoil an old man's store. Help him, Billy. He hit his head.

[Johnny Dollar]

Come on, Billy.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Help me, Buck. He's holding onto me. Come on, Billy. We gotta get out of here. Listen, boy, let's call my jacket Mr. Green. Come on, Billy.

[Adam Graham]

I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comment to box13reatetectives.net Follow us on Twitter at radiodetectives. Check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com greatdetectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.

[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.

[Johnny Dollar]

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.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Liberty Premier hosts on vrbo Deliver quality vacation rental stays with fast responses and clear instructions.

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, I had a question and our host replied.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Super quick premier move.

[Johnny Dollar]

Wish I had a premier group chat.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

They won't even write me back.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Book a top rated stay with a premier host if you know you've Erbo 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.

[Johnny Dollar]

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.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Liberty.

[Sidewinder Wilson]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Liberty.