The Lone Ranger - Little Bear

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Lone Ranger – Little Bear"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: May 27, 2026
Host: Harold’s Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

In this classic radio throwback, "The Lone Ranger – Little Bear," listeners are transported to the wild terrains of the Old West, where justice battles lawlessness. The episode centers on the mysterious case of a young boy, Ted Laramie, the lone survivor of a wagon train massacre. Adopted by an Indigenous tribe and known to them as "Little Beaver," Ted becomes the heart of a suspenseful story involving identity, loss, kidnapping, and clever detective work by the Lone Ranger and Tonto. The action unfolds as the masked hero works to reunite Ted with his grieving grandparents and outsmart a desperate outlaw.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Progression

1. Establishing the Mystery (03:03–06:36)

• Wagon Train Attack: A small wagon train is attacked by outlaws; all are killed except young Ted Laramie, left in an Indian village.
• Discovery by Lone Ranger & Tonto: Five years later, Lone Ranger and Tonto surveil the valley for a white boy rumored to live with the local tribe.
  • Quote:

    Lone Ranger: "He must have been very young when he first joined the Indians. ... He calls himself Little Beaver. That's only his Indian name, of course." (05:28)

• Clues to Identity: Noting the boy's gold ring engraved with "T. Laramie," they suspect a link to the Laramie family now in Red Run.

2. Connecting the Past (07:56–11:24)

• Meeting the Laramie Grandparents: The grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Laramie, have traveled west, hoping to find their lost grandson after inheriting money.
• Sheriff’s Reluctance: The sheriff shares the tragic fate of the wagon train, expresses skepticism about the boy’s survival, and fears that criminals could exploit the situation for ransom.
  • Quote:

    Sheriff Duke: "If that kid's found, he'll eat my saddle." (10:11)

3. Rising Stakes – The Kidnapping (11:44–14:44)

• Ted Goes Missing Again: News arrives that "Little Beaver" has vanished after going hunting with two tribe members—both found dead.
  • Quote:

    Tonto: "Him not know where boy gone. Him say little Beaver and two Indian go hunt them. Find Indian dead. Little Beaver gone." (12:29)

• Ransom Demand: A ransom note (accompanied by Ted’s ring) demands $10,000 for the boy’s safe return—escalating tension among the townsfolk.
  • Quote:

    Sheriff Duke: "The fellow that's got the young un wants $10,000 cash to give him back." (14:49)

4. A Calculated Response (15:54–19:06)

• Lone Ranger's Plan: Understanding the outlaw is dangerous, Lone Ranger devises a plot to trap him—coordinating with both Tonto (sent on an urgent mission) and the sheriff.
  • Quote:

    Lone Ranger: "I have a plan to get the money back and find the guilty man." (16:34)

• Sheriff and Deputies Act: The sheriff strictly instructs his deputies not to interfere with the ransom drop, prioritizing Ted’s life.

5. Building Suspense – The Stakeout (21:08–23:00)

• Anxious Waiting: Tension rises as the Laramies and the sheriff wait late into the night, hoping the boy will reappear once payment is made.
  • Quote:

    Mrs. Laramie: "It's going to be all right. Martin." (21:48)

• Ted Returns: The boy is seen returning to town, signaling the first part of the plan's success.

6. Confrontation and Unmasking the Real Villain (23:20–27:18)

• Calling All Deputies: The sheriff calls in his deputies, while Lone Ranger and a tribal medicine man, Grey Elk, orchestrate the next stage.
• The Reveal: The Lone Ranger reasons that only someone with inside knowledge—namely a deputy—could have engineered the kidnapping.
  • Quote:

    Lone Ranger: "One of us is a murderer and a kidnapper." (24:44)

• Grey Elk Identifies the Kidnapper: Grey Elk accuses Deputy Duke, who flees but is quickly captured.
  • Quote:

    Tonto (as Grey Elk): "Him here." (26:26);
    Lone Ranger: "Point him out." (26:27)

7. The Clever Ruse & Justice Served (27:18–End)

• Duke’s Confession: Pressured, Duke admits responsibility not only for the kidnapping but also for his role in the original massacre.
  • Quote:

    Duke: "I was one of them that left the kid near the village five years ago." (26:52)

• The Lone Ranger’s Cleverness: The medicine man was acting; it was the guilt-driven reaction that truly confirmed Duke’s guilt.
  • Quote:

    Lone Ranger: "Grey Elk played his part to prove it." (27:11)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On hope and heartbreak:

  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." (18:28)

• On justice and trust:

  Sheriff Duke: "He's gonna decorate a rope. And folks, that's a promise." (17:37)

• Final twist:

  Lone Ranger: "But he didn't, Sheriff. It's the first time he ever saw Duke in his life." (27:07)

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Important Timestamps

• 03:03 – Tragic backstory and the discovery of Little Beaver/Ted.
• 06:06 – Lone Ranger recognizes the "Laramie" name on the boy's ring.
• 09:04–11:24 – The sheriff recounts the wagon train massacre and discusses risks of exploitation.
• 14:00 – Ransom note and ring are delivered.
• 16:34 – Lone Ranger reveals his plan to trap the real villain.
• 21:47 – Ted reappears, signaling the trap has worked.
• 24:44–26:27 – The Lone Ranger singles out the guilty deputy, and Grey Elk identifies him.
• 27:07 – The revealing of the medicine man’s ruse and the confession.

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Summary & Tone

True to the classic Lone Ranger style, the episode balances suspense, mystery, and frontier justice. Listeners are treated to evocative period language and the tension between lawmen, outlaws, and those who dwell on the Western frontier. The wise, straightforward tone of the Lone Ranger and the emotionally resonant pleas of Ted’s grandparents add depth to the drama, while action sequences and the final twist pay tribute to the cunning nature of old-time radio heroes.

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Conclusion

"The Lone Ranger – Little Bear" is a poignant reminder of how even in stories set in the wild, untamed West, hope, family, and justice prevail. With engaging dialogue, well-plotted suspense, and a satisfying reveal, this episode underscores why the Lone Ranger remains a stalwart radio legend.

Transcript

[The Lone Ranger]

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[The Lone Ranger]

Sesh on TikTok.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse for the speed of light. A cloud of dust and a hari hi O Silver. The Lone Ranger.

[Tonto]

It's. Sam.

[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. Hi O, 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 a 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 often, Tonto?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're sure this is the right valley?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

You wait him come.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your Indian friend might have misinformed you, but there's a rider, Tato.

[Sheriff Duke]

A boy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe the one we want. We'll stop him, Tado. Come on. I've heard rumors of white children living with Indians before Kimosabe. But usually they're wrong.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

You find out.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's seen us.

[Tonto]

Hello, there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Him waved hands.

[Tonto]

Oh, there's Elvis.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's just a youngster, Tano, but he rides well.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Him rides plenty well.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here he comes.

[Tonto]

How, Tado?

[The Lone Ranger]

What matter this boy is white. He's dressed like an Indian. He's been tanned by the sun. There can't be any mistake in that, right? Can you understand white man's talk?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Lenatico. Mote go la su.

[The Lone Ranger]

What did he say? Tado?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Denka Romok.

[Sheriff Duke]

Saligumo.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Mini Hana Kalke Kat.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Tanomolo. Komini Tipa. Get Molimete.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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, 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that hanging from that leather strap on his wrist?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

It ring.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wonder. Ask him if I can look at it.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Palotande ni kota. Hey, Lot.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Father panic.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Him show you good.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's a small gold ring. Tent like children often wear. May give a clue to his identity. Yes. Engraving is almost worn away, but you can still make it out, Huh? T. Laramie.

[Sheriff Duke]

Laramie.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where have I heard that name before? Kimosabe.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

What you think it may mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

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 Co. You want Toto get him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let him go, Toto. But this is something we're going to look into.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

We leave Little Beaver with his Indian friends for the present. He looks happy and healthy. He's safer here for a while.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Foreign.

[Sheriff Duke]

Craving. Something specific.

[The Lone Ranger]

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[The Lone Ranger]

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[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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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. 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 uncle.

[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 killed 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 recent.

[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 to 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 one, just four years old and left to grow up by himself and that five years back. I wouldn't say the same to them. But if that kid's found, he'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 Laramie's a got, crooks'll do most anything to cheat him out of it.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's true, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

But now ol 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 Shane toad.

[Tonto]

I said I'd see you again.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Wait.

[Tonto]

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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That good thing.

[Tonto]

Come on, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

They're plenty trouble.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wonder what's happened.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Me find out you can. There come Indian rider. Me nome him named Long Arrow.

[The Lone Ranger]

Long Arrow? Isn't he the Indian who told you about the boy in the first place? Tanner.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That's 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Kino Tabe Long error.

[Sheriff Duke]

Dec Ma

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

gone. Gone?

[Sheriff Duke]

But where?

[Mr. Laramie]

How?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Dakut 10 lo macte kinma Paco relit.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quick handoff.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That right. But who did them not know that. Why? Big trouble in village. All Indian feel bad.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then we're too late. 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

What we do?

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Malute gto him do that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then back to Red Runata. We've got to find out why the boy was stolen.

[Sheriff Duke]

Come on.

[Tonto]

Get him up, Scott.

[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'.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Am.

[Sheriff Duke]

All my deputies are on hand now. I can send them out again if you'd rather.

[Mrs. Laramie]

No.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

What's up? Who threw that?

[Sheriff Duke]

Hey, 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Duke.

[Sheriff 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Yell.

[Sheriff Duke]

Oh, blast it. What do you say, Slim? Gosh, Sheriff, I'm sorry, but dog gonna ought to fight a lot of you. You must be going blind or deep. What's a note say, Mr. Laramie?

[Mr. Laramie]

Sheriff, it seems impossible.

[Sheriff Duke]

Huh?

[Mr. Laramie]

My grandson's been found.

[Tonto]

This.

[Mr. Laramie]

This ring is the one I gave him on his second birthday. The note says so.

[Narrator]

Over here.

[Sheriff Duke]

Give me that. I'll find out what this is all about.

[The Lone Ranger]

Read it to a 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 blame sight, you won't. I'm the law here and I 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 was there.

[Tonto]

Look there.

[The Lone Ranger]

I bet that's a fella you wash here.

[Sheriff Duke]

Well, stop him. Fire at him. Missed.

[Tonto]

He's most out of sight already. A polecat.

[Sheriff Duke]

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

[Tonto]

Come on, get to your heart.

[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.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That's bad. Bad.

[The Lone Ranger]

You have to act fast, Tono. 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

What plan?

[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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

trip as fast as you can 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'. Am. We'll get that crook sooner or later. And when we do, he'll be wishing he wasn't ever born. He's gonna 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 wouldn't have thought about that.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Someone just right up, I was. Sure I hear his horse.

[Mr. Laramie]

Perhaps it'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. I give them orders to stay on the job till morning if they had to. And if they don't, well, I'll be.

[Mr. Laramie]

It's the masked man you were looking for.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your hands away from your gun.

[Mrs. Laramie]

Sheriff, you blasphemous 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Stand still. There.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll just put it on the desk over here. Or you'll not try to reach for it.

[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. You wrote it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Answer my question.

[Mrs. Laramie]

It's 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 a 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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]

Do you remember talking to a stranger some time ago? The 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 Laramie's to spread the word around.

[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, Jeff. 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 righted 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 cache. 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.

[Sheriff Duke]

I 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.

[Mr. Laramie]

Jenny. What is it?

[Mrs. Laramie]

Look inside there. Do you see through the window? That boy.

[Mr. Laramie]

I show nothing.

[Sheriff Duke]

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

[Mrs. Laramie]

from the cafe dressed like an Indian.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, that's him, Sheriff. The boy's free. Now we can set our trap. And by hunter we will get the boy. Keep him here. But.

[Tonto]

But my friend's waiting him back.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll go out this way, Sheriff. Do what I told you. I'll be back in an hour.

[Sheriff Duke]

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 Tato. Come on, Silver. Oh, pull this over. Donna.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

You ready?

[The Lone Ranger]

Everything said Tano. Where did Grey out? Has Tano explained everything to you? Gray out? Me do like him telling me. Then get your horses. We're returning to town.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Here's count me.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto]

You see, boy Nearest out of the boy was set free.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That heap good.

[The Lone Ranger]

Be ready.

[Tonto]

Catch him. Bad fell. Come on, get him up. Sc.

[Sheriff Duke]

Hey, Slim. What do you want, Sheriff? Did you get a hold of the rest of deputies like I told you? They're coming.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

They're right behind me.

[Sheriff Duke]

Then tell him. Get a move on.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hurry up, fellas.

[Sheriff Duke]

The sheriff wants you in the office right now. We're hurrying as fast as we can. What's the rush? Get in here and find out what's ailing you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, something happened.

[Sheriff Duke]

Just dip inside, all you, and sit down. Howdy, Mr. Laramie.

[Mr. Laramie]

Hello, Duke. Hello, men.

[Sheriff Duke]

Say, Sheriff, where's the kid? I thought Swim 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 going to do. Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you mean by that chair?

[Sheriff Duke]

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

[Narrator]

Waiting for what?

[Sheriff Duke]

Waitin 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 come walking in here 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?

[Sheriff Duke]

We're your deputies, ain't we? And that's just why I'm keeping my mouth shut for now, huh? Because you are modest. That don't make sense.

[Tonto]

I can't.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here we are, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Duke]

Just hold your horses, fellas. 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 the medicine man from the tribe that raised young Ted Laramie.

[Mrs. Laramie]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

Are you 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. Huh?

[Sheriff Duke]

What story?

[The Lone Ranger]

One moment. Counting Grey 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?

[Sheriff Duke]

You're crazy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Wait, Sheriff. Except for your deputies, I was the first man to be told about the search for Ted. But when Tahlo 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.

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Go on.

[The Lone Ranger]

And that in turn pointed to your deputies.

[Mr. Laramie]

Shut up.

[Sheriff Duke]

Keep right on, masked 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.

[Sheriff Duke]

What's the redskin got to do with this?

[Tonto]

What right?

[Sheriff Duke]

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?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

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

[The Lone Ranger]

How long ago was that?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

That five year white man time.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Him ride with Indian friend near village. Bad white man come, white man shoot Indian take em. Little Beaver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quiet, Ray 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?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Me see him me near when him kill him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is that man in this room?

[Tonto (speaking in broken English/Native language)]

Him here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, Grey Elk, point him out Him.

[Tonto]

You're not gonna get me. Watch out.

[Sheriff Duke]

It's Duke. Grab him.

[Tonto]

She shot the light the first time. He follows me out gets drilled. Hey, let me lose Flash out. I'll fetch you fellas.

[Sheriff Duke]

I am to see by if I

[Tonto]

did get my hands.

[The Lone Ranger]

You roll through, Duke.

[Tonto]

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

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll kill two of his prizemen, 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 torture me. Christ save it, them redskins. You wouldn't do that and 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]

The 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.

[Sheriff Duke]

Why the first time?

[The Lone Ranger]

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 dog gone.

[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]

Come on, Silver, old fellow. It's trouble over in Danville. I O. Silver. Halloween.

[The Lone Ranger]

It.

[Sheriff Duke]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

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