Squire Returns for Trial With New Business Venture

Originally Aired: September 27, 1935

In Lum & Abner #205, "Squire Returns for Trial With New Business Venture," tension fills the air as Lum awaits the return of Squire Skimp, the smooth-talking promoter whose fraudulent mining stock scheme has landed Lum in legal hot water. With his trial looming next week, Lum's only hope for acquittal is to produce Squire as evidence. When Constable Abner returns from the county seat with the prisoner, Lum and Grandpappy Spears are shocked to discover that Abner has allowed Squire to stop at his own house unguarded. Lum immediately assumes the worst, certain that the notorious conman has escaped out the back door.

Despite Lum's fury and Grandpappy's skepticism, Abner insists that Squire came willingly and even claims to be innocent of any wrongdoing. The wily Squire maintains that the mine is legitimate and blames Lum's mismanagement for the troubles. As Lum steams over Squire badmouthing him behind his back, he prepares for a confrontation when Squire arrives at his door, determined to make the silver-tongued promoter admit his guilt.