The Lone Ranger 38-10-12 891 Little Bear

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – The Lone Ranger 38-10-12 "Little Bear"

Date: September 30, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Lone Ranger 38-10-12 "Little Bear"

---

Episode Overview

This classic episode of The Lone Ranger, originally broadcast in 1938, plunges listeners into a tale of tragedy, loss, and ultimate justice on the lawless western frontier. As the masked Ranger and his faithful companion Tonto discover a lost boy raised by Native Americans, they unravel old crimes linked to a brutal wagon train massacre, family heartbreak, and a high-stakes kidnapping motivated by greed. The episode skillfully blends suspense, emotional moments, and the iconic Lone Ranger’s pursuit of justice.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Wagon Train Tragedy and a Lost Child

[03:26 – 04:27]

• The opening sets the historical western backdrop, where wagon trains face attacks from outlaws and hostile groups.
• The Laramie family is killed during such an attack, but young Ted Laramie survives. Unable to kill a child, the outlaws leave Ted at a nearby Native American village.
• Five years later, only one outlaw remains at large, and Ted, now known as Little Beaver, has grown up among the tribe.

2. Discovery of Little Beaver

[04:27 – 07:00]

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto, guided by Grey Elk, wait to spot a white child rumored to live with the tribe.
• They meet Little Beaver, who speaks only the tribal language and does not remember English. A gold ring engraved “T Laramie” provides a clue to his former identity.
• The Lone Ranger suspects a connection to an elderly couple, the Laramies, who recently arrived in Red Run.

Notable Exchange:

• [06:29–06:30] The Lone Ranger (on seeing the name on the ring):
  “T Laramie… Where have I heard that name before, Kimosabe?”

3. The Laramies’ Search for their Grandson

[07:34 – 10:18]

• The Lone Ranger learns from Sheriff Duke that the Laramies have been seeking their lost grandson, suspected dead in the attack.
• The Sheriff’s deputies have searched for weeks, but no trace is found. The Sheriff fears crooks might use the boy's disappearance to take advantage of the Laramies for ransom.

Notable Quote:

• [09:33] Sheriff Duke:
  “Stranger, they don't come no finer. Poor old folks. Hardest thing I ever did was tell them what happened to their boy and his wife. Now they got their hearts a dead set on finding the kid. I sure hate to think what'll happen when they find out. It ain't no use.”

4. Little Beaver Kidnapped Again – The Ransom Demand

[11:21 – 14:26]

• Upon preparing to reunite Little Beaver with his family, the Ranger discovers the boy has gone missing; two Native hunters found dead.
• The Laramies receive a ransom note and Ted’s gold ring, demanding $10,000 for his return.
• A cloaked figure (later suspected to be one of the Sheriff’s own men) delivers the note, and efforts to apprehend him fail.

Notable Quote:

• [14:26] Sheriff Duke (reading the ransom note):
  “The fellow that's got the young un wants $10,000 cash to give him back.”

5. The Masked Man Suspected

[15:31 – 19:14]

• Suspicion falls on the Lone Ranger, but he evades the posse and returns to devise a plan with Tonto and Grey Elk to rescue Ted and expose the real criminal.
• He gains the reluctant trust of the Laramies and Sheriff, encouraging them to follow the ransom instructions to set a trap for the kidnapper.

6. The Trap Is Set

[20:22 – 21:56]

• The Sheriff, deputies, and Laramies await at the sheriff’s office. The ransom money is placed at the bridge per instructions.
• The episode builds suspense as the group anxiously awaits news of Ted’s fate.

Notable Moment:

• [21:49] Sheriff Duke (about Little Beaver):
  “Poor young un.”

7. Ted Returns / The Culprit Revealed

[22:06 – 25:04]

• Little Beaver appears outside, signaling the ransom has worked.
• The Lone Ranger and his allies set out to unmask the perpetrator, gathering all deputies and principals in one room.

8. Justice through Cunning

[25:05 – 27:26]

• The Lone Ranger leads a dramatic “parlor room” revelation. He deduces that only someone who knew about the search early could have kidnapped Ted.
• Grey Elk is called to point out the culprit. Under pressure, Grey Elk implicates Duke, one of the Sheriff’s deputies, who attempts to flee but is subdued.
• Duke confesses: he was one of the outlaws who originally massacred the wagon train and left Ted with the tribe.

Notable Reveal:

• [26:31] The Lone Ranger:
  “Did you get a good look at the man who stole Ted away?”
  Grey Elk: “Me see him. Me near when him kill him.”
  The Lone Ranger: “Is that man in this room?”
  Grey Elk: “Him here now.”
  (Grey Elk points to Duke; a scuffle follows.)

• [27:15] The Lone Ranger reveals:
  “He didn’t, Sheriff. It’s the first time [Grey Elk] ever saw Duke in his life. The first time I knew one of your men had a guilty conscience, Sheriff. And Gray Elk played his part to prove it.”

9. Resolution

[27:26 – End]

• Sheriff Duke laments the cruel deception, but justice is satisfied: Duke will face punishment for his crimes. The Laramies are set to reunite with their grandson at last.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• The fate of Little Beaver:
  “He's just a youngster, Tado. But he rides well.”
  – The Lone Ranger (05:01)

• On the long odds:
  “A young un just 4 years old and left to grow up by hisself and that five years back. ... If that kid's found, I'll eat my saddle.”
  – Sheriff Duke (09:00)

• The ransom plot revealed:
  “The fellow that's got the young un wants $10,000 cash to give him back.”
  – Sheriff Duke (14:26)

• The trap springs:
  “Counting Gray Elk and myself, there are eight men in this office. And one of us is a murderer and a kidnapper.”
  – The Lone Ranger (24:51)

• Dramatic justice:
  “He killed two of his tribesmen, Duke. You'll tell us how you knew where to find the boy or you'll be turned over to the Indians for punishment.”
  – The Lone Ranger (26:55)

• Psychological trickery:
  "He didn’t, Sheriff. It’s the first time [Grey Elk] ever saw Duke in his life. The first time I knew one of your men had a guilty conscience, Sheriff. And Gray Elk played his part to prove it.”
  – The Lone Ranger (27:15)

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• The attack and lost child backstory: [03:26 – 04:27]
• Discovery of Little Beaver/Ted: [04:27 – 07:00]
• Sheriff tells the Laramie family’s backstory: [07:34 – 10:18]
• Kidnapping and ransom note: [11:21 – 14:26]
• Ranger plans trap, gains reluctant allies: [15:31 – 19:14]
• Waiting for the payoff at the bridge: [20:22 – 21:56]
• Ted reappears; confrontation setup: [22:06 – 25:04]
• The trap and Duke’s exposure: [25:05 – 27:26]
• Confession and closure: [27:26 – End]

---

Conclusion

"Little Bear" is a masterful example of Golden Age radio storytelling, blending suspense, emotion, and justice. The episode stands out for its intricate plotting, the clever psychological gambit that exposes the villain, and its sensitive portrayal of loss and reunion. Fans of The Lone Ranger will find classic themes of truth prevailing and family restored through the courage and ingenuity of our masked hero.

---

Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

When it comes to showing appreciation, the gift you choose says everything. Minky Couture Luxury blankets make the perfect statement. Soft, stylish and unforgettable. Whether you're thanking a client, rewarding an employee, or celebrating a milestone, nothing delivers warmth and gratitude like a Minky blanket. With custom options and elegant packaging, your gift will stand out and be remembered long after the moment has passed. Make your corporate gifting extraordinary with Minky Couture luxury you can feel. Visit minkkour.com to get started.

[Tonto]

Hi O Silver Away.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse for the speed of light. A cloud of dust in a hurry.

[Tonto]

Hi, Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Duke]

Sam.

[Mrs. Laramie]

It.

[Narrator]

With his great horse, Silver and his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the mask rider of the Plains fought crime and criminals throughout the western United States. It was he, more than any other man, who brought law and order to a lawless frontier. And the memory of his deeds will remain as long as the memory of the early west itself. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear, when adventure lay at the end of every trail. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Tonto]

Come on, Silver. We're heading for the Indian country. Donald's waiting for us there. IO Silver Away.

[Narrator]

The first wagon trains to enter the newly opened western territories were attacked not only by hostile Indians, but by vicious white outlaws as well. Such was the fate of the small train that carried Jack Laramie, his young wife, Edith, and their four year old son, Ted. A band of outlaws attacked the train and left no survivors, with one exception, the boy, Ted Laramie. The discovery of the boy presented a serious problem. Even these men found it impossible to kill in cold blood. They were unwilling to abandon the child in the wilderness. But to carry the lone survivor of their raid to the nearest settlement would link them with their crime. Two men appointed by the outlaw leader took the child to an Indian village and left him there. After five years, only one of the outlaws remained at large. And no one knew of the part he'd played in the tragedy of the wagon train. Now, in our first scene, we see the Lone Ranger and his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, sitting motionless on their great horses, their eyes sweeping the valley below them.

[The Lone Ranger]

You say the boy rides this way.

[Grey Elk]

Often, Tonto that right?

[The Lone Ranger]

You're sure this is the right valley?

[Grey Elk]

Tanto not make mistake. Indian village over there.

[The Lone Ranger]

We've been waiting for more than an hour. Perhaps he wouldn't ride this far alone.

[Grey Elk]

You wait him. Come.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your Indian friend might have misinformed you, but there's a rider, Tato. A boy. Maybe the one we want. We'll stop him. Tado.

[Tonto]

Come on.

[Grey Elk]

Silver Scout.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've heard rumors of white children living with Indians before, Kimosabe. But usually they're wrong.

[Grey Elk]

You find out.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's seen us.

[Tonto]

Hello, there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Him waved hands. He's just a youngster, Tado. But he rides well.

[Grey Elk]

Him rides plenty well.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here he comes.

[Tonto]

How, Todo?

[Grey Elk]

What matter?

[The Lone Ranger]

This boy is white. He's dressed like an Indian. He's been tanned by the sun. There can't be any mistake.

[Grey Elk]

That right?

[The Lone Ranger]

Can you understand white man's talk?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Lena Tico Mote go la su.

[The Lone Ranger]

What did he say todo?

[Grey Elk]

Him say him call Little Beaver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then he doesn't understand English. He must have been very young when he first joined the Indians. Ask him if he knows where he comes from, who his people are.

[Grey Elk]

Denka. Romok.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Saligumo.

[Grey Elk]

Mini Hana. Kalke. Kat.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Tanomolo. Komini. Tipa. Get Molimete.

[Grey Elk]

Ido. Him live with Crow Indian. Him live there. Many Moon. Him ask bout you say him member pale face. Long time past.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's probably still got a few memories of his parents, Tato. Even though he doesn't understand those memories. And it's likely that I'm the first white man he's seen since he lost his parents. He calls himself Little Beaver. That's only his Indian name, of course. Wait. What's that hanging from that leather strap on his wrist?

[Grey Elk]

It ring. I wonder.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ask him if I can look at it.

[Grey Elk]

Palo tan de nicota Pelat.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Father panic.

[Grey Elk]

Him show you good.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's a small gold ring. Tender, like children often wear. Make up a clue to his identity. Yes. Engraving is almost worn away, but you can still make it out.

[Sheriff Duke]

Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

T laramie.

[Sheriff Duke]

Laramie.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where have I heard that name before? Kimosabe.

[Grey Elk]

That name Palern. Red Run.

[The Lone Ranger]

Red Run. That's it. An old couple from the east that was in Red Run. When we were there. No one seemed to know what their business was.

[Grey Elk]

What do you think?

[The Lone Ranger]

It may mean nothing, their names being the same. I'd be only an accident. But on the other hand, it might explain why those people came to the West.

[Tonto]

Tika, come.

[The Lone Ranger]

You want Toto get him. Let him go. Toto. This is something we're going to look into. We leave Little Beaver with his Indian friends for the present. He looks happy and healthy. He's safer here for a while.

[Grey Elk]

That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, he's only a boy. As he grows older and his mind develops, he'll never be satisfied leading the life of a savage. If he's related to the Laramies and Red run. And they seem decent people. We'll return for him. Come on. Tyler, will you find a place to camp for the night?

[Narrator]

It was a week later that the Lone Ranger, disguised but without his mask, stood outside the sheriff's office. The door opened and the sheriff escorted an elderly couple out onto the porch.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, Mr. Laramie, if it's your notion I've been handling this thing wrong. I reckon I'll have to try it your way.

[Mr. Laramie]

You've heard nothing at all from your deputies?

[Sheriff Duke]

Not a blamed thing. I've got all four of them on.

[Mr. Laramie]

The job and I'd appreciate it if you'd take my suggestion, sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, it's up to you. I'll see the word gets around. If that's what you want.

[Mr. Laramie]

Thank you.

[Sheriff Duke]

And, ma', am, don't you be giving up hope yet. There's still lots of chances.

[Mrs. Laramie]

I won't, Sheriff.

[Mr. Laramie]

Come along, Jenny. Good day, sheriff. If you hear anything, we'll be at the hotel.

[Sheriff Duke]

I'll let you know first news I get.

[Grey Elk]

Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Oh, howdy, stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Those were the Laramies, weren't they?

[Sheriff Duke]

That's the handle, all right. What's it to you?

[The Lone Ranger]

I know they're from the east, sheriff. I wondered what their business was in Red Run.

[Sheriff Duke]

Now, look here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Or is it a secret?

[Sheriff Duke]

It would be if I had anything to do with it. But, shucks, I might as well tell you about it as anybody. I guess I promised. I spread the word around.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Sheriff Duke]

Don't suppose you remember a wagon train that was massacred east of here about five years back, do you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Five years ago. I believe I do recall something.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, them folks you just seen leave my office had a son traveling with them wagons. There was him and his wife and a young un.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff. How old was the child?

[Sheriff Duke]

About four, I think they said. Say, you act as though maybe you knew something.

[The Lone Ranger]

Go ahead, Sheriff. What's the rest of the story?

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, it just so happens that I was one of the first fellows to come across them folks that was kilt in the raid. We found enough to identify most of them, but there weren't no kid 4 years old among them.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're sure of that?

[Sheriff Duke]

Of course I am. Wouldn't forget a thing like that. Well, as I was saying, young Laramie and his wife was found, but no trace of the kid. The old folks never knew what happened to them until just recently.

[The Lone Ranger]

Until recently?

[Sheriff Duke]

Yep. Let them into a sizable amount of cash and decided to come west and do some hunting. They got this far, heard about what happened with the wagon train and now they're hoping maybe the young un wasn't killed.

[The Lone Ranger]

They look like good people, sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Stranger, they don't come no finer. Poor old folks. Hardest thing I ever did was tell them what happened to their boy and his wife. Now they got their hearts a dead set on finding the kid. I sure hate to think what'll happen when they find out. It ain't no use.

[The Lone Ranger]

You don't believe the child can be found?

[Sheriff Duke]

Shucks. It ain't reasonable, is it, mister? A young un just 4 years old and left to grow up by hisself and that five years back. I wouldn't say the same to them. But if that kid's found, I'll eat my saddle.

[The Lone Ranger]

What was the boy's name?

[Sheriff Duke]

Ted. Theodore. Named after his. Moore's father, they said.

[The Lone Ranger]

But why hasn't this been told around? Those people have been here for almost a month.

[Sheriff Duke]

Yeah, and I've had my four deputies searching the country for the past two weeks. But what I was trying to guard against was crooks hearing about the search.

[The Lone Ranger]

You mean they might get ahold of the boy first?

[Sheriff Duke]

Either that or try to pass off some other young un in his place. When folks got as much cash as the Laramies have got crooks'll do most anything to cheat him out of it.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's true, sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

But now old Laramie says I gotta let it be known. So I reckon I ain't got no choice. I. Hey, what's your hurry?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll see you again, sheriff. Here, Silver.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, now, look here, stranger. If you know anything about this.

[The Lone Ranger]

Shane, I said I'd see you again.

[Tonto]

Hail, Silver. Away. The boy we saw is related to the Laramie tunnel. We'll get him and return him to his grandparents.

[Grey Elk]

That good thing.

[Tonto]

Come on, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's the village saddle. Look, there's something going on. You hear the Indians chanting?

[Grey Elk]

They're plenty trouble.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wonder what's happened.

[Grey Elk]

Me find out.

[Mr. Laramie]

You can.

[Grey Elk]

There come Indian rider. Min ome. Him named Long Era Long Arrow.

[The Lone Ranger]

Isn't he the Indian who told you about the boy in the first place?

[Grey Elk]

Tama, Isn't that right?

[The Lone Ranger]

Call him Kimasabe. Ask him where the boy is. Tell him we found the boy's relatives. We want to speak to the chief about returning Ted to his own people.

[Grey Elk]

Kino sabe Long error.

[Sheriff Duke]

No.

[Grey Elk]

Peter Baktu Manecte te paan mut Dakota. Telpe do Sancte Nipo Dek ma. Him say boy gone. Gone? But where?

[Mr. Laramie]

How?

[Grey Elk]

Dakot Ten lo Makte Kinma Paco relit. Quick Tallow him Not know where boy gone. Him say Little Beaver and two Indian go hunt them. Find Indian dead. Little Beaver gone.

[The Lone Ranger]

You mean the boy went hunting with two Indians and disappeared. And the Indians were found killed.

[Grey Elk]

That right.

[The Lone Ranger]

But who did it?

[Grey Elk]

Them not know that. Why? Big trouble in village. All Indian feel bad when we're too late.

[The Lone Ranger]

Someone knew the boy was here. And I'm afraid the sheriff was right when he said he feared crooks might get ahold of him.

[Grey Elk]

What we do?

[The Lone Ranger]

Thank Long Arrow for the information. Tell him we're friends of the boy and we'll try to find him again. And ask him to keep the boy here of the Indians discover him before we do.

[Grey Elk]

Malute gtech Nik Tonto. Him do that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then back to Red Runata. We've got to find out why the boy was stolen. Come on, get him up.

[Grey Elk]

Sc.

[Narrator]

One evening, several days later, the boy's grandparents were seated in the sheriff's office talking to the lawman.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, Mr. Laramie, I don't know what to think. Every one of my deputies have reported back and they never found a thing. I did what you asked me, told the folks in town about it, and still we ain't got no word.

[Mrs. Laramie]

And we thought we were getting closer to him at last.

[Sheriff Duke]

Shucks, ma'. Am, all my deputies are on hand. Now, I can send them out again if you'd rather.

[Tonto]

No.

[Grey Elk]

What the.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who threw that?

[Sheriff Duke]

Hey, wait. It's a note. Somebody wrapped it up in this stone and tossed it in here.

[Mrs. Laramie]

A note?

[Mr. Laramie]

Let me see that.

[Sheriff Duke]

And look. There's a ring with it. A small gold ring. See what the note says, will you? Mr. Laramie, I'm gonna find out if one of my deputies seen who threw it. Hey, fellas. Duke. Gus. Leo Flynn, come here. Somebody just threw a note inside here. Gus, did you see who done it?

[The Lone Ranger]

Gosh. Ain't seen nobody around, Sheriff Duke.

[Sheriff Duke]

Me neither. How about you, Leo?

[The Lone Ranger]

I reckon I was sort of dozing, Sheriff. I never heard nothing of you.

[Grey Elk]

Yell.

[Sheriff Duke]

Oh, blast it. What do you say, Slim?

[The Lone Ranger]

Gosh, Sheriff, I'm sorry, but dog gonna.

[Sheriff Duke]

Ought to fire the lot of you. You must be going blind or deep. What's the note say, Mr. Laramie?

[Mr. Laramie]

Sheriff, it seems impossible my grandson's been found. This. This ring's the one I gave him on his second birthday. Found the note.

[Sheriff Duke]

Says so over here. Give me that. I'll find out what this is all about.

[The Lone Ranger]

Read it to us, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Why, that dirty, low down polecat.

[Mr. Laramie]

What's it say?

[Sheriff Duke]

The fellow that's got the young un wants $10,000 cash to give him back.

[Mr. Laramie]

Oh, no, we'll pay it gladly.

[Sheriff Duke]

Not by a blame sight, you won't. I'm the law here and it won't stand for no such thing.

[Mr. Laramie]

But we may never see him alive again if we don't.

[Sheriff Duke]

The skunk's just bluffing if he thinks I can.

[Tonto]

Look there. I bet that's a fellow you want. Share.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, stop him. Fire at him. Missed.

[Tonto]

He's most out of sight already.

[The Lone Ranger]

A polecat.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, there he is, men. Catch that fella and we'll have the boy.

[Tonto]

Come on, get to your horse.

[Sheriff Duke]

The curtain falls on the first act of our thrilling Lone Ranger drama before the next exciting scenes. Please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. When the Lone Ranger was seen riding away from the sheriff's office after a note had been thrown in the window demanding $10,000 for the return of Ted Laramie. He was believed to be the outlaw who had kidnapped the child. The masked man, however, escaped from the sheriff's posse and made his way to the small camp where Tonto waited.

[Sheriff Duke]

What?

[Grey Elk]

What mattered?

[The Lone Ranger]

Tado? Somebody's made Ted a prisoner. He wants $10,000 for his return.

[Grey Elk]

That's bad.

[Tonto]

Bad.

[The Lone Ranger]

You have to act fast, Toddo. I heard the sheriff tell Martin Laramie he wouldn't let him pay the money. The sheriff doesn't know he's dealing with a murderer. He's already killed two men to get the child. He'll not hesitate to kill again if he has to.

[Grey Elk]

Hondo, think you're right.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't believe in paying money to outlaws. But we don't dare risk the boy's life. I have a plan to get the money back and find the guilty man.

[Grey Elk]

What man?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going back to town and talk to Laramie and the sheriff. It's dangerous, but I have to persuade them to follow the instructions they received. And you'll have to make a long trip as fast as you can.

[Grey Elk]

Glad do that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now listen closely and I'll tell you how we'll trap the man we're after.

[Narrator]

That same night, the sheriff returned to his office where the Laramies were anxiously waiting.

[Sheriff Duke]

I'm sorry, folks, but the masked fellow got clean away.

[Mr. Laramie]

You lost all trace of him.

[Sheriff Duke]

The way that hombre rode, it'd take a horse with wings to keep up with him. My deputies are still hunting him. But I come back to let you know how things stood.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Sheriff. You can't let any harm come to our grandson.

[Sheriff Duke]

Ma'.

[The Lone Ranger]

Am.

[Sheriff Duke]

We'll get that crook Sooner or later. And when we do, he'll be wishing he wasn't ever born. He's going to decorate a rope. And folks, that's a promise.

[Mr. Laramie]

I'd rather you let me pay the money that's asked.

[Sheriff Duke]

I told you before I would have thought about that.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Someone just ride up? I was sure I hear his voice.

[Mr. Laramie]

Perhaps he's one of your deputies, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

If it is, I'll give him a piece of my mind. Listen. They got track of the fellow they was hunting.

[The Lone Ranger]

Progressive knows we all crave validation.

[Tonto]

Girl, you are not 37.

[The Lone Ranger]

I would have guessed 27.

[Mrs. Laramie]

You guys are too sweet.

[Sheriff Duke]

Sure do we skin Terrific.

[Mr. Laramie]

Is something wrong, Ned?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why would you ask?

[Sheriff Duke]

Just because Today marks my 10th anniversary without a car accident or even a speeding ticket.

[Tonto]

But somehow tonight's all about your skin care.

[Sheriff Duke]

Wow.

[The Lone Ranger]

With snapshot from Progressive, you can get a personalized rate based on how you drive. And that's all the validation you need. Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliate snapshot not available in California.

[Sheriff Duke]

From all agents.

[The Lone Ranger]

Search possible for unsafe driving.

[Sheriff Duke]

I give them orders. Stay on the job till morning if they had to. And if they don't.

[Mr. Laramie]

Well, I'll bet it's the masked man.

[The Lone Ranger]

You were looking for. Keep your hands away from your gun.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Sheriff, you look our grandson. Don't harm him. We'll pay anything you ask.

[Mr. Laramie]

Just give him back and we'll ask no questions.

[The Lone Ranger]

I haven't got your grandson.

[Sheriff Duke]

We know you have. And by heavens, you'll hang.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm here to help you, just to make sure you don't interfere. Sheriff, I'll take your gun.

[Sheriff Duke]

You'll pay for this.

[Grey Elk]

Stand still.

[Mr. Laramie]

There.

[The Lone Ranger]

Just put it on the desk over here. You'll not try to reach for us.

[Mr. Laramie]

Stranger, can't we come to terms?

[Mrs. Laramie]

The boy means everything to us. We're not young anymore. And if we don't get him back, there won't be anything left for us to live for.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll get him back.

[Sheriff Duke]

You expect us to believe that?

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll have to. But first I want to know exactly what was said in the note you received.

[Sheriff Duke]

You don't have to be told.

[The Lone Ranger]

You wrote it. Answer my question.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Asked for $10,000.

[The Lone Ranger]

I know that. But how was the money to be delivered? And when?

[Mr. Laramie]

The note mentioned a bridge.

[Mrs. Laramie]

The old bridge, it was called.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's only a mile out of town.

[Mr. Laramie]

He said to get paper money, put it in the package. Hide the package at the east end of the bridge.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did he say when?

[Mr. Laramie]

He gave us a week.

[The Lone Ranger]

Can you get the money together within a Week.

[Mr. Laramie]

I can. I'm sure I can. I've already spoken to the banker. He'll send to Martinvale for it.

[Grey Elk]

Good.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then follow those instructions exactly.

[Sheriff Duke]

You rotten pole cat. You can't get away with this. I'm warning you. Your life ain't gonna be worth a plug nickel around these parts.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, I believe I can convince you that I'm not guilty.

[Sheriff Duke]

You can't do no such thing.

[The Lone Ranger]

You remember talking to a stranger some time ago? A man who asked you about the Laramies?

[Sheriff Duke]

Let me see.

[The Lone Ranger]

He was the first man you told about the hunt for the child after you'd promised the Laramies to speak. Spread the word around.

[Grey Elk]

Wait.

[Sheriff Duke]

I recollect now. He had a white horse and he called. Say, he called his horse Silver too.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm the same man.

[Sheriff Duke]

Then by thunder, you did get the Kid. That's why you were so blamed interested. Dad rat it. I even told you about these folks being worth a sight of cash. I wish I'd known then that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Listen to me, Sheriff. I'm going to tell you what happened after I spoke to you that day. I'm going to tell you why I spoke to you. Then I'll explain what I want you to do. If you still refuse, I'll have to try another plan. But I'm quite sure you won't.

[Sheriff Duke]

All right, fellas. Tonight's a night. And the cache is all right down by the bridge like the note said.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, you want us to hide somewhere so we can see who gets it.

[Sheriff Duke]

Not by a blame sight. You fellas are my deputies and you'll do just like I say. Don't go near that cash. That goes for all you fellows. You, Gus, all right. And you, Leo, Duke and Slim too.

[The Lone Ranger]

But what's the idea?

[Sheriff Duke]

The Laramies want the Kid back alive. That's the idea. And they're not taking any chances on the crook getting scared and making off.

[Mr. Laramie]

But what are we supposed to do?

[Sheriff Duke]

Just go about your business like always? There's enough to keep you busy without meddling. All I gotta say is this. If that crook gets scared off on account of one of you, I'll have your badges. Now get. All right.

[Mrs. Laramie]

It'S after 11 o'. Clock. You don't think anything could have gone wrong, do you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't worry, Mrs. Laramie. The note said the boy would be returned as soon as the money was paid. We've made it easy for the man who captured your grandson to get the money without being seen. He'd have nothing to gain and everything to lose by keeping the Boy. After that?

[Mrs. Laramie]

I suppose so.

[Sheriff Duke]

If you folks ain't comfortable waiting here in my office, maybe it wouldn't hurt none to go down to the hotel.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't think that would be wise, Cheryl. The note we left with the money said to send the boy here.

[Sheriff Duke]

He could ask for us, couldn't he?

[The Lone Ranger]

You forget, he speaks only the language of his tribe. He understands no English at all.

[Sheriff Duke]

Poor young un.

[Mr. Laramie]

Just waiting, watching the clock. Can't stand it much longer.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll have to be patient, Mr. Laramie.

[Mrs. Laramie]

It's going to be all right, Martin.

[Mr. Laramie]

11:15.

[Sheriff Duke]

I sure hope you didn't make no mistake in your figuring, stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't. I'm sure of that.

[Sheriff Duke]

Jenny.

[Mr. Laramie]

What is it?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Outside there. Do you see through the window? That boy.

[Mr. Laramie]

I saw nothing.

[Sheriff Duke]

I see him now, ma'. Am. He stepped in front of the light from the cafe.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Dressed like an Indian.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, that's him. Chair of the boys free. Now we can set our trap.

[Sheriff Duke]

And by hundred we're worried.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get the boy. Keep him here. My friend is waiting him back. How to go out this way, Sarah.

[Tonto]

Do what I told you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll be back in an hour.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Right.

[The Lone Ranger]

And when I get back, we'll catch.

[Tonto]

The crook you're looking for. Here, Silver. All right, old fellow. Now to ride a cap and get tattooed. Come on, Silver. Oh, pull this over. Pullback. Pull. Saber. Donnell, you ready?

[The Lone Ranger]

Everything's at Tahoe. Where'd Grey out eat Grey out. Has Tano explained everything to you, Gray elf? Me do like him telling me. Then get to your horses. We're returning to town.

[Grey Elk]

Here's Count me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get a horse. I told the town we'd be back in an hour. We'll have to hurry you.

[Tonto]

You see, boy?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, Tono. The boy was set free.

[Grey Elk]

That heap good. Be ready.

[Tonto]

Catch him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Bad fella.

[Tonto]

Then come on. Get him up. Scar. Hail Silver away.

[Sheriff Duke]

Hey, Slim.

[Mr. Laramie]

What do you want, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Duke]

Did you get a hold of the rest of deputies like I told you?

[The Lone Ranger]

They're coming.

[Grey Elk]

They're right behind me.

[Sheriff Duke]

Then tell them get a move on.

[Tonto]

Hurry up, fellas.

[The Lone Ranger]

The sheriff wants you in the office right now.

[Sheriff Duke]

We're hurrying as fast as we can.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's a rush?

[Sheriff Duke]

Get in here and find out what's ailing you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, something happened.

[Sheriff Duke]

Just step inside, all you, and sit down.

[Mr. Laramie]

Hey, howdy, Mr. Laramie. Hello, Duke. Hello, men. Say, sheriff, where's the kid?

[Sheriff Duke]

I thought Slim said he'd come back. The boys over at the hotel, Mrs. Laramie. We didn't figure we ought to have him around for what we're gonna do, huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you mean by that, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Duke]

Never you mind, Leo. You'll save it soon enough. But right now we're waiting.

[Narrator]

Waiting for what?

[Sheriff Duke]

Waiting for the Mask ombre and some friends of his. Gus.

[Mr. Laramie]

Say, you ain't idiot enough to think.

[The Lone Ranger]

That feller would come walking in here.

[Mr. Laramie]

After getting that $10,000, do you?

[Sheriff Duke]

Just you wait and see. You must have gone loco, Duke. Before I'm through here, maybe you'll change your mind.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're sure acting mighty mysterious, Sheriff. How about letting us in on what's going on? We're your deputies, ain't we?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Uh huh.

[Sheriff Duke]

And that's just why I'm keeping my mouth shut for now, huh? Because you are modest.

[Mr. Laramie]

That don't make sense.

[Sheriff Duke]

I can't.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here we are, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Just hold your horses. The masked man's here to straighten things out and I'm helping him.

[Mr. Laramie]

Who in blazes is the engine?

[The Lone Ranger]

This is Grey Elk. He's a medicine man from the tribe that raised young Ted Laramie. What are young Ted Laramie?

[Sheriff Duke]

Oh, you said the redskin would have some information for us, didn't you?

[The Lone Ranger]

I said he had a story to tell and he came here to tell it.

[Sheriff Duke]

Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

What story? One moment. Counting Gray Elk and myself, there are eight men in this office. And one of us is a murderer and a kidnapper. Where do you get off making a charge like that? You're crazy. Wait, Sheriff. Except for your deputies, I was the first man to be told about the search for Ted. But when Toddo and I returned for the boy, he was gone. Stolen. That meant he could have been seized only by someone who knew of the search before I did.

[Sheriff Duke]

Go on.

[The Lone Ranger]

And that in turn pointed to your deputies.

[Mr. Laramie]

Shut up.

[Sheriff Duke]

Keep right on Maske fella.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll remember I was close to your office the night the ransom note was thrown in the window. Close enough to know I was the only one who approached this building outside of your deputies again. So the guilty man has to be one of your men, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Which one?

[The Lone Ranger]

There's Duke and Slim, Leo and Gus. You'll learn the right one in a moment, Sheriff. Now Grey Elk, tell us what you saw. What's the redskin got to do with this?

[Sheriff Duke]

What right you got him when I said to shut up a minute. The masked man's handle this any way he sees fit.

[The Lone Ranger]

Grey Elk, how did you happen to know Ted Laramie?

[Grey Elk]

Find em him many moon past. Take em boy in tribe. Call em him Little Beaver.

[The Lone Ranger]

How long ago was that?

[Grey Elk]

That five year white man time.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now Grey Elk, tell us when you saw Ted the last time.

[Grey Elk]

Him ride with Indian friend near village. Bade white man come. White man shoot Indian take him. Little Beaver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quiet, Grey Elk. This is the most important question of all. Answer it carefully. Did you get a good look at the man who stole Ted away?

[Grey Elk]

Me see him. Me near when him kill him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is that man in this room?

[Grey Elk]

Him here now.

[The Lone Ranger]

Grey Elk. Point him out.

[Grey Elk]

Him.

[Tonto]

You're not gonna get me. Watch out.

[Sheriff Duke]

It's Duke.

[The Lone Ranger]

Grab him.

[Tonto]

She shot the light. The first army followed me. Elk gets drilled. Hey, let me lose. Well, thank you for this.

[Sheriff Duke]

I am to see by if I.

[Tonto]

Could get my hands loosely.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're all through, Duke.

[Tonto]

It was a blasted medicine man. Recognized me. The spiral things.

[The Lone Ranger]

You killed two of his tribesmen, Duke. You'll tell us how you knew where to find the boy or you'll be turned over to the Indians for punishment.

[Tonto]

No, don't do that. They'll talk to me. I serve them redskins. You wouldn't do that then talk. I was one of them that left the kid near the village five years ago.

[The Lone Ranger]

You must have been one of the outlaws who massacred the wagon train.

[Tonto]

Don't turn me over to the rescue.

[The Lone Ranger]

White man's justice will punish you, Duke.

[Sheriff Duke]

Golly. Stranger was sure lucky. Grey Elk recognized Duke.

[The Lone Ranger]

But he didn't, Sheriff. It's the first time he ever saw Duke in his life. The first time I knew one of your men had a guilty conscience, Sheriff. And Gray Elk played his part to prove it.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, I'll be doggone.

[Tonto]

I was tricked.

[The Lone Ranger]

You got only yourself to blame for it. Come on, Sheriff. Let's put him in a safe place to keep for hanging.

[Tonto]

Travel. Over in Danville. I O Silver. Hello.

[Mrs. Laramie]

SA.

[Sheriff Duke]

Sam.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard is a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated.