Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Shy Beneficiary Matter (EP4633)

Summary

The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio: "Yours Truly Johnny Dollar: The Shy Beneficiary Matter (EP4633)"

Introduction

In Episode 4633 titled "The Shy Beneficiary Matter," listeners are immersed in a classic Johnny Dollar investigation filled with intrigue, suspense, and unexpected twists. Hosted by Adam Graham, this episode showcases the quintessential elements of old-time radio detective dramas, blending sharp investigative work with rich character interactions.

---

Act One: The Case Unfolds

[03:06 - 07:13]
The episode kicks off with Johnny Dollar, portrayed by Bob Bailey, reaching out to his colleague Pat McCracken for assistance. Johnny is grappling with an unusual problem: he needs to dispose of $25,000 but has been unsuccessful for two weeks.

Johnny Dollar:
"I've been trying to give it away for two weeks, but I can't."
— [03:17]

Pat, always ready to tackle a new challenge, immediately recognizes the complexity of Johnny's predicament. He learns that the funds are tied to the insurance claim of Ms. Helen Gaisworth, who recently passed away, leaving Elijah Summers as the beneficiary. However, locating Summers proves elusive.

Pat McCracken:
"I thought you said you were trying to give away $25,000 in goodness."
— [03:39]

Determined to solve the mystery, Pat outlines the steps he's taken so far: checking death lists and advertising in New York newspapers—eliminating any leads on Summers. The landlady's accounts hint that Summers might be an enigmatic figure, adding layers to the investigation.

Act Two: Digging Deeper

[07:13 - 16:24]
Pat delves into the background of Ms. Gaisworth, revealing her solitary and eccentric nature. Her mention of Elijah Summers leaves Pat with scant information, prompting a trip to San Francisco, funded by his expense account (Item 3: $167.20).

Upon placing advertisements in San Francisco newspapers (Item 4: $9.50), Pat unexpectedly encounters Janet Tyler, played by Alice Frost, who claims to be a friend of Elijah Summers.

Janet Tyler:
"Has he answered it?"
— [07:30]

Janet provides a crucial hint by introducing the small town of South Fork, California—a region steeped in gold rush history and located near the Yuba River. This leads Pat to Tough Luck Canyon, inhabited by hermits like Pan and Goll, suggesting a possible hideout for Summers.

In South Fork, Pat meets Sheriff Rollins (played by Joseph Curtin), who reveals that Elijah Summers is wanted for murder. The sheriff provides insights into the circumstances of the crime: Elijah had an altercation with Jess Tyler, resulting in her death and Elijah's subsequent flight.

Sheriff Rollins:
"Elijah Summers? Yeah, that's right. I'm looking for him."
— [08:31]

Determined to bring Elijah to justice, Pat collaborates with Janet and drives to the Tyler ranch, where Jess's widow Clara and her new husband Ben Watts await.

Janet Tyler:
"I don't mind anymore, Mr. Dallas. Time has a way of taking care of most things."
— [12:33]

The narrative thickens as Janet expresses her conflicted emotions towards Elijah, hinting at deeper connections and motives behind the murder.

Act Three: The Climax and Resolution

[16:24 - 23:18]
The investigation reaches its peak as Pat, equipped with camping gear (Item 6: $35.40), treks into Tough Luck Canyon. The rugged terrain sets the stage for a tense confrontation. Pat's persistence pays off when Janet reveals her true identity as Jess Tyler, unveiling the motive behind the murder.

Janet Tyler:
"Elijah was always pretty unpredictable. I guess no one really knows what the argument was about."
— [13:01]

An unexpected alliance forms between Pat and Janet to apprehend Elijah. During the ensuing standoff, Elijah fires at them with a .22 caliber rifle, but Pat manages to outmaneuver him, leading to a decisive resolution.

Pat McCracken:
"Once in a while I get the feeling that this job of mine is worthwhile after all."
— [23:18]

Ben Watts, the new husband, emerges as the true antagonist, having manipulated circumstances to frame Elijah for Jess's murder. Johnny Dollar’s meticulous investigation ensures that justice is served, restoring peace to the shaken community.

---

Host Commentary and Listener Engagement

[26:03 - 34:12]
After the narrative, host Adam Graham provides thoughtful commentary on the episode. He reflects on the pacing and storytelling, noting that while some episodes might benefit from more "breathing room," this particular story stands out for allowing Johnny to achieve a satisfying resolution.

Graham addresses listener feedback, including technical aspects like discrepancies in rifle calibers mentioned in the episode. He clarifies historical inaccuracies regarding firearm popularity and the integration of public service announcements (PSAs) from different eras into the episodes. Highlighting the challenges of preserving old-time radio shows, Graham emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity of original broadcasts while accommodating modern preservation techniques.

A standout moment is a heartfelt review from a listener named Beasy Working Mom, who praises Adam’s insightful commentary and the educational value of the podcast, despite occasional negative feedback regarding the host's voice.

Beasy Working Mom:
"If I only wanted the old time radio episodes without his input, I would just go elsewhere. Great job, Adam."
— [25:17]

Graham expresses gratitude for positive feedback and acknowledges the diversity of listener opinions, reinforcing his commitment to delivering quality content that honors the legacy of old-time radio detectives.

Conclusion and Wrap-Up

The episode concludes with a preview of the next story and a brief interaction among characters, maintaining the authentic feel of a radio drama. Adam Graham encourages continued listener engagement through social media and reviews, ensuring the podcast's community remains vibrant and interactive.

Pat McCracken:
"Next week, the most cockeyed case I ever worked on. Not one of life, but death insurance. Join us, won't you?"
— [25:17]

Graham's closing remarks emphasize the show's dedication to preserving and celebrating old-time radio detective stories, inviting both longtime fans and new listeners to partake in the ongoing adventures of Johnny Dollar.

---

Notable Quotes:

1. Johnny Dollar:
   "I've been trying to give it away for two weeks, but I can't."
   — [03:17]

2. Pat McCracken:
   "Once in a while I get the feeling that this job of mine is worthwhile after all."
   — [23:18]

3. Janet Tyler:
   "I don't mind anymore, Mr. Dallas. Time has a way of taking care of most things."
   — [12:33]

4. Beasy Working Mom:
   "If I only wanted the old time radio episodes without his input, I would just go elsewhere. Great job, Adam."
   — [25:17]

---

Final Thoughts

"The Shy Beneficiary Matter" exemplifies the enduring appeal of old-time radio detective stories, blending meticulous investigations with compelling character dynamics. Adam Graham's expertise in curating and presenting these classic narratives offers listeners both nostalgia and fresh appreciation for the Golden Age of Radio. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to Johnny Dollar's world, this episode promises a captivating journey through mystery and resolution.

Transcript

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[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 Dollar. But first, I do want to encourage you if you're enjoying the podcast to follow us using your favorite podcast software and also as you're making your travel plans, remember johnnydollerair.com johnnydoller.com is a Priceline affiliate link, so part of the purchase price benefits the Great Detectives of Old Time Radio at no additional cost to you. Now from November 17, 1957, here is the shy beneficiary matter from Hollywood.

[Johnny Dollar]

It's time now for.

[Pat McCracken]

Johnny Duller.

[Johnny Dollar]

Matt McCracken, Johnny Universal Adjustment.

[Pat McCracken]

Well, hi, Pat. What's new?

[Johnny Dollar]

I've got a problem.

[Pat McCracken]

This is new, Pat. Every time you call me up, you've got a problem. What is it this time, Johnny?

[Elijah Summers]

Did you ever have any trouble getting rid of money?

[Pat McCracken]

Getting rid of. Look, Pat, this is the thing I do best. Well, not so here. What do you mean? I got $25,000.

[Johnny Dollar]

I've been trying to give it away for two weeks, but I can't.

[Pat McCracken]

Just a minute. Let me take the phone for a minute. I thought you said you were trying to give away $25,000 in goodness.

[Johnny Dollar]

You heard me correctly.

[Pat McCracken]

Boy, you have got a problem. I'll be right over.

[Johnny Dollar]

Bob Daley in the exciting adventures of the man with the action packed expense account. America's fabulous freelance insurance investigator.

[Pat McCracken]

Yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Johnny Dollar]

And now, act one of yours truly, Johnny Dollar.

[Pat McCracken]

Expense account submitted by special investigator Johnny Dollar to the home office, Universal Adjustment Bureau, Hartford, Connecticut. Following is an account of expenses incurred during my investigation of the shy beneficiary matter. Expense account item one, A$20 for a cab from my apartment to the offices of Universal Adjustment where Pat was waiting for me, looking very snide. This is a real twist, Johnny. Usually beneficiaries are beating down my daughter collect.

[Elijah Summers]

This one is playing it real core.

[Pat McCracken]

What's the deal, Pat? Well, it starts out real simple. Two weeks ago, a Ms. Helen Gaisworth died. Insured for 25,000.

[Elijah Summers]

Beneficiary, a man named Elijah Summers.

[Pat McCracken]

That's where my troubles start.

[Elijah Summers]

No, Will I, Jeff.

[Pat McCracken]

Can't locate.

[Elijah Summers]

Can't locate no trace whatsoever.

[Pat McCracken]

What have you done so far? Well, the usual, Johnny.

[Elijah Summers]

We've checked death lists, advertised in the newspapers. All I've come up with is nothing.

[Pat McCracken]

Where did you advertise? New York. That's where Ms. Gaysworth lives. Do you have any relatives? None, as far as we can determine. Any idea who this Elijah Summers is or why she picked him as beneficial? The only lead we've got is something. Ms. Gaysworth's landlady threat. What's that? Well, apparently this Ms. Gaysworth was something of. Well, an eccentric.

[Elijah Summers]

Lived alone in a dingy apartment. Felt that the world was pretty much against her.

[Pat McCracken]

All except Elijah Summers. Landlady.

[Elijah Summers]

Heard her mention him once or twice. It seems he's been nice to her.

[Pat McCracken]

Sometime in the past. How? That I don't know. Neither does the landlady. Do you have any idea where he could be? What he's doing? If he's even alive?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Nope.

[Elijah Summers]

But if he is, he's entitled to 25,000 bucks.

[Pat McCracken]

So we gotta find him. Hey, you know, you don't have much to go on, Pat. Correction, Johnny. You mean you don't have anything to go on. Expense account, item 2, $36 even. Transportation and incidentals to New York City. I saw the landlady, Ms. Gaysworth, had moved in six months ago from somewhere a few blocks away. Three hours later, I'd located the somewhere a few blocks away. There I learned only that she'd, yep, moved in from somewhere else a few blocks away. Gradually, however, a picture arose before my mind of a sweet little old lady drifting from place to place alone. And, well, I felt sorry for her. I also felt sorry for me because nobody along the line had ever heard of Elijah Summers. Finally, I turned up for a first landlady in New York. She remembered Ms. Gaysworth mentioning something about having come from San Francisco. She thought. Item 3, $167.20, plain, fair and incidentals to San Francisco. Item 4, $9.50, newspaper ads in the San Francisco papers. Frankly, I wasn't very optimistic. But that's where I was wrong. Because the very first day I got results. The results, incidentally, were blonde with brown eyes.

[Janet Tyler]

Mr. Dollar?

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah.

[Janet Tyler]

I'm Janet Blake. May I come in?

[Johnny Dollar]

Oh, my goodness.

[Janet Tyler]

Thank you.

[Pat McCracken]

What can I do for you, Ms. Lee?

[Janet Tyler]

You're the one who ran the ad about Elijah Summers.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, that's right.

[Janet Tyler]

Has he answered it?

[Pat McCracken]

Not yet.

[Janet Tyler]

Do you have any idea where he is?

[Pat McCracken]

No, not at all. That's why I advertise. Look, are you related to Mr. Summers?

[Janet Tyler]

No, I'm a friend of his.

[Pat McCracken]

Well, have you any idea where he might be?

[Janet Tyler]

Ms. Blake, have you ever heard of a little town called South Fork, California?

[Pat McCracken]

No.

[Janet Tyler]

It's on the Yuba river up in Sierras and what used to be some of the gold rush country.

[Pat McCracken]

You think Elijah Summers might be up there?

[Janet Tyler]

Maybe.

[Pat McCracken]

What makes you think so?

[Janet Tyler]

Just call it a hunt, Mr. Dallas. Just a hunt.

[Pat McCracken]

Item five, 2750. A rented car to take me to the town of South Fork. There was just enough inhabitants to keep it from being called a ghost town. A collection of ramshackle buildings at a fork in the river, hemmed in all around by the mountain rangers. I looked up the local law. Big, beefy, slow talking deputy sheriff named Rawlin.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Elijah Summers?

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, that's right. I'm looking for him.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Who's I?

[Pat McCracken]

My name's Dollar. Johnny Dollar, Insurance investigator.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Looking for Liza Summers, huh?

[Pat McCracken]

That's the general idea. Here.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Well, good luck, Dollar. What do you Mean, I tell you, you find lied, you let me know, huh?

[Pat McCracken]

Okay.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Why, he's wanted for murder.

[Johnny Dollar]

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

[Pat McCracken]

Our flag now numbers 50 stars, and behind each star there stands yet another flag representing one of the 50 states. Rhode island state flag is white with an anchor. First used as a colony symbol in 1647. The motto Hope was added in 1664 when the government was organized under a charter from King Charles II.

[Johnny Dollar]

A circle of 13 gold stars were.

[Pat McCracken]

Added for the original 13 colonies. This is the flag of a unique colony and state which carried out a most noble experiment in freedom. The Royal Charter of 1663 reads, to hold forth a lively experiment that a most flourishing state may stand and best be maintained with full liberty and religious concernment. Rhode island state flag.

[Johnny Dollar]

The flag of the 13th state to.

[Pat McCracken]

Enter the Union was adopted on May 19, 1897.

[Johnny Dollar]

And now, Act 2 of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the shy beneficiary matter.

[Pat McCracken]

Now I knew why Elijah Summers was so hard to locate. After all, a man who's wanted for murder isn't exactly going to make himself conspicuous.

[Sheriff Rollins]

How come you want to find Elijah Dollar?

[Pat McCracken]

He's a beneficiary of a life insurance policy. Share of $25,000.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Afraid the DOE's not going to do him much good.

[Pat McCracken]

Maybe not.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Oh, sure, he's got to be brought in tried and convicted. But I figure that's largely a question.

[Pat McCracken]

When did this killing take place, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Last year, here in South Fork. A ranch about three, four miles east of here at just Tyler's place.

[Pat McCracken]

Is Tyler the one who was killed?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Yeah.

[Pat McCracken]

What happened?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Well, sir, Elijah always was a funny old duck. Guess Tyler kept him around the place a couple years. Sort of a hired hand.

[Janet Tyler]

I see.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Now, from what we could piece together, Elijah and Jess got in an argument about some work. Elijah wasn't doing very good. Elijah went plumb crazy, shot Jess and took off in the hills. I said, jess, we'd have took it pretty hard for the better part of a year. I guess. It was Ben Watts finally pulled her out of it. He was married just a month ago.

[Pat McCracken]

Oh.

[Sheriff Rollins]

She and Ben are living on the ranch straight out of town, to the east, up on a rise.

[Pat McCracken]

Okay.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Can't miss it. Figure on going out there?

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, I thought I might. You any idea where Elijah might have gone?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Matter of fact, I got a pretty good idea.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Over the next range of mountains is a place called Tough Luck Canyon. Couple hermits in there. Pan and Goll go well, they get maybe three, four bucks worth A day. Enough to live on. I've got me a hunch it'll. I just holed up somewhere in there.

[Pat McCracken]

Have you been up there, Astro?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Two, three times. Well, so he's got to be careful. That Elijah's a mean shot with a 30. 30? Jeff Tyler found that out. Besides, there's lots of places up in there for men to hide.

[Pat McCracken]

Uh huh. So you've given up on him, $?

[Sheriff Rollins]

I don't give up on no man. Elijah stays up there long enough, he's gonna get killed. Us. One of these times I go up there, I'll.

[Pat McCracken]

I got into my car and drove out to the Tyler ranch where his widow Clara and her new husband Ben Watts were living. They were expecting me.

[Janet Tyler]

Sheriff Rollins phoned us you were coming, Mr. Dallas.

[Sheriff Rollins]

I doubt if there's much we can add to what he's already told you about Elijah and the killing.

[Pat McCracken]

Well, I'm sure you don't enjoy talking about it, Mrs. Watts.

[Janet Tyler]

But I. I don't mind anymore, Mr. Dallas. Time has a way of taking care of most things. Of course, I still can't help feeling sort of bitter about Elijah. But I also can't help feeling sorry for him.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, sure. Amsterdam Stan, I. I gather that Mr. Tyler always treated Elijah pretty well.

[Janet Tyler]

Yes, he did. I kept him around here when it really didn't pay to.

[Pat McCracken]

Uh huh. Then how could Elijah turn on him that way?

[Janet Tyler]

Elijah was always pretty unpredictable. I guess no one really knows what the argument was about.

[Pat McCracken]

Mr. Watts, how would I get to Tough Luck Canyon? You.

[Johnny Dollar]

You mean you're going after Eliza?

[Pat McCracken]

I'd like to try.

[Johnny Dollar]

I don't think that's a very good idea, Mr. Dallas.

[Pat McCracken]

Probably not. But why not? Could be dangerous. For you maybe. And why do it? My job.

[Janet Tyler]

I've been thinking about Liza a lot lately. An old man like that somewhere up in that canyon, out in the open in a cold. It just isn't right.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, well, anyway, how do I get there?

[Sheriff Rollins]

As the road takes off a mile.

[Johnny Dollar]

Or so from here, you'll see it marked. Winds up through the mountains. About 3 hours hike from Tough Love Canyon.

[Pat McCracken]

Okay, thanks.

[Johnny Dollar]

Just one thing, Mr. Dollar. This Elijah, he's a good shot.

[Pat McCracken]

I know. So do I.

[Johnny Dollar]

Put a 3030 slug in my shoulder once.

[Pat McCracken]

When was that?

[Johnny Dollar]

Night of the kill.

[Pat McCracken]

Him.

[Johnny Dollar]

I was living on the next ranch over at the time. I was one of them that took off after him. He winged me from 200 yards.

[Pat McCracken]

Oh, I tell you for a fact.

[Johnny Dollar]

Mr. Dollar, he can shoot fast. He can shoot straight.

[Pat McCracken]

With those cheerful words from Ben Watts ringing in my ear. I drove back to Tom. Item 6, $35.40 for some camping equipment. I figured I'd be spending a couple of nights, nights out in the open. I found the so called road they told me about. Finally. It just sort of petered out among the trees and rocks up near the timberline. I started hooping it. Three hours later I was over the ridge and working my way down the western slope of Tufluck Canyon. Suddenly, I stopped. Yeah, somebody was turning me. I crouched behind some brush and. Wait. Another one. Hey, wait a minute. You're the girl who answered my ad about Elijah in San Francisco.

[Janet Tyler]

Mr. Dollar.

[Pat McCracken]

Janet. Janet Blake, isn't it?

[Janet Tyler]

Well, I'm afraid I lied to you about my name, Mr. Dallas.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Really?

[Janet Tyler]

Janet Tyler.

[Pat McCracken]

Tyler. Jess Tyler. The man Elijah killed.

[Janet Tyler]

He was my father.

[Pat McCracken]

What are you doing here? Decide to take the law into your own hands?

[Janet Tyler]

Maybe you don't understand. I don't want to harm Elijah, but he must be found and dropped back.

[Pat McCracken]

Well, I'm with you there.

[Janet Tyler]

Then stay with me because I think I can lead you to him.

[Pat McCracken]

Look, Janet, we're nearly at the upper end of this camp now. What makes you think Elijah's around this neck of the woods?

[Janet Tyler]

Well, years ago, Elijah brought me up here. There's a little pocket in the rocks, almost a cave. He liked it. Said it was his place. I recognize the landmarks.

[Pat McCracken]

Get down. Well, Bennett, looks like we finally located Elijah the hard way.

[Johnny Dollar]

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

[Elijah Summers]

It is a very well known fact that symbols are important to men everywhere. Whether they be symbols of country, religion or honor, they're a cherished part of the culture and tradition of all peoples. As in almost all countries of the world, the people of Spain are very religious. And in the Spanish town of Vendrelle, the people were having difficulty with a symbol. A 300 pound angel sitting on top of 150 foot church people. The angel had been there since 1784 and needed repairs to keep it from falling down on the heads of the parishioners. But 150ft is a long way up and 300 pounds are a lot of weight to bring down. Now, there was a great deal of head scratching over the problem until someone casually mentioned the problem to someone else who happened to be stationed at the United States Air Force base in Zaragoza, Spain. It wasn't long before visions of a helicopter came to mind because Americans like to help other people everywhere. The Air Force whirlybird lifted the angel from the church steeple, brought it down for repairs and later returned it to its perch. So grateful were the people of Vendrelle for this act of friendly cooperation that they held a mass celebration of American Day to show their appreciation. Television and newsreels carried the story of kindness. So did the newspapers and magazines throughout Spain. This gesture on the part of the United States Air Force created a new symbol, a symbol of friendship and understanding. It became a symbol of freedom, the right of all men everywhere.

[Johnny Dollar]

And now, act three of yours truly, Johnny Dollar and the shy beneficiary matter.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, we'd found Elijah Summers, all right. He was somewhere in the rocks above us there in Tupla Canyon. And I knew the minute Janet and I poked our heads up, we'd collect a slug. He had his pinned down but good.

[Janet Tyler]

Johnny, you think maybe it's.

[Pat McCracken]

Stay down. Now, look, Janet, I still don't understand why you were so anxious to find Elijah.

[Janet Tyler]

Johnny, you heard him shooting at us.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, you're right.

[Janet Tyler]

What kind of shots do they sound like?

[Pat McCracken]

Rifle. Matter of fact, a small caliber rifle.22, maybe.

[Janet Tyler]

Like this.

[Pat McCracken]

Where'd you get that.22 slot?

[Janet Tyler]

This came from Elijah's gun the night my father was killed.

[Pat McCracken]

But he was killed. Hey, wait a minute.

[Janet Tyler]

That's why I want to talk to Elijah.

[Pat McCracken]

That's a good idea, and so do I. But how?

[Janet Tyler]

I think you'll still remember my voice. Let me try.

[Pat McCracken]

Okay, but be careful.

[Janet Tyler]

Elijah. Elijah. Who's that?

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, go on.

[Janet Tyler]

It's Janet. Elijah. Janet Tyler. Ms. Janet? That's right.

[Johnny Dollar]

Who's that with Dollar?

[Pat McCracken]

Elijah. Johnny Dollar. I want to talk to you. I'm your friend.

[Janet Tyler]

I know you don't. Please, Elijah, he's telling you the truth. We don't want to hurt you, but we must talk to you. That's the truth. Ms. Dennis. Yes? You know I've never lied to you. You there.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Tell me you got a gun.

[Pat McCracken]

Yes.

[Janet Tyler]

Toss it out in the open where.

[Pat McCracken]

I can see it. Well, if we guess wrong about Elijah, we're dead.

[Janet Tyler]

I just know I'm not wrong about him.

[Pat McCracken]

I sure hope not. Okay, here it is.

[Janet Tyler]

Now stand up and come out into the open.

[Pat McCracken]

Okay.

[Janet Tyler]

Elijah.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Hello, Ms. Janet.

[Janet Tyler]

Oh, Elijah, you look terrible. Have you been up here all this time living like. Living like an animal?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Don't you worry about me, nuna. I've been getting along pretty good up.

[Pat McCracken]

Here by the looks of you. You haven't been getting much food.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Enough to keep my eyes sharp, mister. Oh, I see that deadly sheriff fella come poking around here time or two. He didn't even come close. And if he had of, I could have potted him easy with this.

[Janet Tyler]

That's what I wanted to talk to you about, Elijah. That rifle of yours.

[Sheriff Rollins]

It's a good one, Janet. I remember when you gimme it two, three years ago for the ground screws.

[Pat McCracken]

Elijah, have you ever had any other rifle besides that.22?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Nope.

[Pat McCracken]

You're sure about that?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Of course I'm sure. You see?

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Rollins]

I've took good care of it, too. I kept it clean and polished.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah. Look now, Elijah, have you ever used any other rifle besides that one? Nope. Janet, your father was killed with a.30 30. I know that.22 slug you showed me a while ago. You said you got it the night your father was killed, that it came from Elijah's gun.

[Janet Tyler]

I saw someone cry this slug out of his own shoulder the night of the killing. He threw it away. He didn't notice I was watching. Later I heard him tell it around. He'd been hit with a.30 30 slug.

[Pat McCracken]

You mean your stepfather, Ben Watts.

[Janet Tyler]

I was confused at first. I didn't understand. Then it came to me. Ben Watts was the one who'd killed my father. Elijah was probably trying to protect dad and shot Ben with his.22.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Yes, there was a big fight, Ms. Janet. I don't just remember what all happened, except all of a sudden they was chasing me. I run.

[Pat McCracken]

Sure, Ben figured he could pin the killing on somebody like Elijah. Who wouldn't have a chance proving his innocence. Elijah, have you seen Ben since you ran away?

[Sheriff Rollins]

Sure. Oh, Ben's come poking around here too, every so often. But I ain't too smart for him.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, sure. It figures, Janet. Elijah's a threat to Ben as long as he's alive. So Ben comes hunting up here every now and then.

[Janet Tyler]

It's horrible.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Well, of course, I gotta be real careful. Cause I only got a.22 and he's got a.30. 30. But he in there with ghetto ligy. Believe you me, he won't get up.

[Pat McCracken]

Elijah, get down and keep quiet. The shot had come from a clump of rocks more than 100 yards away. I scooped up my automatic where I'd thrown it on the ground. And started circling slowly, trying to get around behind the clump of rock. I'd almost made it when my foot flipped and sent a rock down the slope. He popped up then, ready to shoot. But lucky for me, his first look was toward the rock instead of me. He saw his mistake, swinging his rifle toward me. But he was too late.

[Janet Tyler]

Johnny. Johnny.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, right here, Janet. How's the logic shoulder.

[Janet Tyler]

He's all right, though. Johnny.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, It's Ben Watts. All right.

[Janet Tyler]

Is he. Is he still alive?

[Pat McCracken]

Oh, yeah. He'll keep long enough. Expense account total $410. Even remarks. Well, I turned Ben Watts to the local law, and I helped old Elijah fill out his claim for the $25,000 insurance money Ms. Gayworth had left him. It ought to keep him real comfortable for the rest of his life. You know, Pat, once in a while I get the feeling that this job of mine is worthwhile after all. Yours truly, Johnny Doll.

[Johnny Dollar]

Our star will return in just a moment. Our flag now numbers 50 stars, and behind each star there stands yet another flag representing one of the 50 states. Alabama's state flag is white with a crimson cross of St Andrew, the symbol of the Confederacy, and the national flag of Scotland. Alabama's state capitol, Montgomery, served as the first capital of the Confederacy, and it was on the steps of its capitol building that Jefferson Davis took the oath of office as president of the Confederated States of America. The Scottish cross is in the form of an X or saltier, and is also found on the state flags of Georgia and Mississippi. Perhaps it is the independent, rugged spirit of the Scots that recommended its national symbol to the Confederacy as a symbol of its rebellion. Alabama's state flag, the flag of the 22nd state to enter the union was adopted on February 16, 1895. Now, here is our star to tell you about next week's story.

[Pat McCracken]

Next week, the most cockeyed case I ever worked on. Not one of life, but death insurance. Join us, won't you? Yours truly, Johnny Dar.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yours truly, Johnny Dollar. Starring Bob Bailey. Originates in Hollywood. Written by Robert Rife. It is produced and directed by Jack Johnstone. Heard in our cast were Virginia Greg, Jeanette Nolan, Larry Dobkins, Jack Crucian, Russell thorson, and Howard McNear. 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.

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[Adam Graham]

Welcome back. While I think this is one of those stories that might have worked a bit better with some more breathing room, not even a cereal, but just a few more minutes of story, I thought this was a good story and a nice contrast to those episodes that end with Johnny saying, you know, why am I doing this? And I enjoy a story where Johnny gets to win a little. Now we turn to listener comments and feedback and this one comes in regards to the three sisters matter from saysoff on YouTube who writes indeed. The.257 Roberts is a real caliber, but it's not widely used and I'm not sure that it ever was Back in the early 1980s, in one of my previous lives, I spent two years working in the sporting goods department of a certain department store in Midland, Texas. The last name of the store manager was Crook, so we had a crook working in retail, although he always said that he was an honest one. But I digress. Anyway, during my whole time there, I don't recall ever having sold a single box of.257 Roberts ammo after US repeating arms rescued Winchester from bankruptcy so that we could once again obtain Winchester products. We did order in a Model 70 in.257 Roberts, but it hadn't yet sold by the time I left. Also, our store was known for catering to people with oddball rifle caliber, so if anyone in Midland did have a.257 Roberts, they likely would have come to us for ammo. To show how we catered to these customers, I always kept a couple of boxes of.2520ammo and a couple of boxes of.303 British ammo on hand because at the start of every hunting season the same two customers would always come in and ask for them. Your point about the.257 in this story not being an automatic is likely accurate. Most likely it was a bolted action rifle, as was the case with the Winchester Model 70. Well, thank you so much. I appreciate that insight. And while I suppose it was possible that the.257 Roberts might have been more popular in Colorado in the late 50s, it's safe to say that if the killer had had to buy ammo, that would have been enough for Johnny to figure out who she was. I also had Karen email in and she was asking about some of our recent episodes which have some pretty obvious cuts where the original Armed Forces radio and television services would insert their PSA and what the reason for that was. It's not something that we would do. It's a situation where for a lot of these programs, they were not taken from first generation material. A lot of the late 50s, early 60s Johnny Dollar are copies of copies. And so the decision on whether to cut commercials or PSAs was made perhaps 50 years ago and could be for any number of reasons. It might be that a rebroadcast was planned and they decided to replace the PSAs with local commercials. They might have been copying a lot of programs onto mediums like tapes, and they're trying to get on as many as possible. I know we have a couple of episodes from 1958 that are home recordings, and I suppose some collectors might even have had a philosophy about not including them. For example, on today's PSAs, it includes the reference to our flag having 50 stars. This episode was from 1950. Our flag didn't have 50 stars until 1959. So these particular public service announcements are likely from the 60s. So I could see someone saying, I just want the original radio programs and not these later editions. Of course, they're pretty interesting to those of us in the 21st century, but if, say, you were living in 1972 or something, maybe not so much. Of course, today, when it comes to preservation, it's pretty standard practice that if you digitize a program, you digitize the whole program. And if someone has to use the program for some other purpose, they can edit or cut as they'd like, but you still need that source to have everything in it. But thanks so much for the question, Karen. And then we turn to a review on Apple Podcasts from Beasy Working mom, and she writes, I've been listening to the show for almost as long as it's been available. I love the episodes, the history. I really like Adam's commentary. He gives great background and framing to the episodes, just like everyone. I have favorite shows and less favorite shows, but I appreciate what I learn from each. It's part of the entertainment value for me. The nasty critiques of Adam's voice are like nails on a chalkboard to me. Give me a break. I chose this podcast because of what he adds. If I only wanted the old time radio episodes without his input, I would just go elsewhere. Great job, Adam. Well, thank you so much. I appreciate your kind comments. I started the podcast with very specific ideas and a vision for how I wanted to do it. And I'm always glad to hear when People enjoy what we're doing here, although I've always known that it's not going to be for everyone. I don't know why some folks feel the need to be nasty about it. I guess it's just the world we live in. But we've gotten a lot more positive feedback than the other kind. So thank you once again. And now it's time to thank our Patreon supporter of the day. And I want to thank Bailey. Bailey's been one of our patreon supporters since April 2023, currently supporting the podcast at the Psalmist level of $4 or more per month. Thank you so much for your support, Bailey. And that will actually 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 from. We'll be back next Friday with another episode of Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar. But join us back here tomorrow for Dragnetware.

[Pat McCracken]

Joe, hi.

[Elijah Summers]

You ready to go?

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah, we better hustle.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Here's your top coat, Joe.

[Elijah Summers]

Oh, thank you, Ben. Where's Tom?

[Pat McCracken]

We can pick him up down the hall. He's checking out some tear gas.

[Johnny Dollar]

Shelves might need him.

[Pat McCracken]

How about the address? You confirming?

[Elijah Summers]

2100 Buchanan Avenue. It's a corner house, Skipper.

[Pat McCracken]

You know what to expect when you get out there. Don't take any chances.

[Johnny Dollar]

He's alone in the house. That right?

[Pat McCracken]

Supposed to be, yeah. That won't give you much of a break.

[Elijah Summers]

How do you mean?

[Johnny Dollar]

He's heavy on guns. Two revolvers and a hunting rifle.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah, he's not shy about using them. Don't forget it.

[Johnny Dollar]

Right.

[Pat McCracken]

Ed.

[Elijah Summers]

Slats. Ben, let's go.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Okay. It's been a long haul.

[Pat McCracken]

Yeah.

[Johnny Dollar]

I hope this washes it up.

[Sheriff Rollins]

Hunting rifle, couple revolvers.

[Johnny Dollar]

What do you think?

[Elijah Summers]

18 robberies in three months. You know the guy as well as I do.

[Johnny Dollar]

Yeah.

[Adam Graham]

What's your. I hope you'll be with us then. In the meantime, send your comments to Box13greatdetives.net follow us on Twitter at Radio Detectives and check us out on Instagram. Instagram.com Great detectives from Boise, Idaho, this is your host, Adam Graham, signing off.