The Lone Ranger - Old Andy Clarks Mule

Summary

Podcast Summary

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Lone Ranger - Old Andy Clarks Mule
Date: May 28, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

In this episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio," the classic drama “The Lone Ranger – Old Andy Clark’s Mule” takes center stage. Set during the boisterous days of the Western gold rush, the episode explores the fate of an old prospector, Andy Clark, his stubborn mule, and the trouble that arises when word of Andy’s gold discovery spreads. The Lone Ranger and his trusted companion Tonto must navigate suspicion, greed, kidnapping, and cunning schemes to restore justice and safety to a lawless frontier.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

Introduction to the Plot (02:16–03:08)

• Historical Context: The gold rush attracts both honest prospectors and unscrupulous criminals, making it dangerous for those striking it rich.
• Opening Scene: Andy Clark, an elderly prospector, tries to coax his stubborn mule homeward to his daughter, vowing to “sell him off” if his behavior doesn’t improve.

Andy Confronted by Outlaws (03:54–06:28)

• Ambush: Andy is confronted on the trail by Vic Fletcher and his cronies Lige Brinker and Mike Moody, who are after his gold.
• Resilience: Andy refuses to tell where his gold is hidden, standing his ground even at gunpoint.
• Threats and Kidnapping: The outlaws decide to detain Andy until he shares the gold’s location.

Notable Quote:

“You thieving, low down, sneaking coyotes. And you ain't gonna get away with this either.”
– Andy Clark (05:30)

The Lone Ranger & Tonto Intervene (06:52–10:24)

• Lone Ranger’s Plan: The Lone Ranger and Tonto visit Andy’s daughter Peggy, only mentioning Andy is on his way—leaving the gold a surprise, as Andy requested.
• Mysterious Disappearance: Andy’s mule turns up alone in town, raising concerns about Andy’s fate.
• Suspicions Arise: Villagers, including Vic Fletcher, suggest the masked Lone Ranger and Tonto may be involved, planting seeds of suspicion.

Memorable Exchange:

“Just this, stranger. I'm here to say you fellas killed Andy, stole his dust…”
– Vic Fletcher (09:11)

Revealing the Villains’ Scheme (11:02–12:25)

• Villains’ Plot: Vic Fletcher and Lige Brinker plan to turn suspicion onto Cliff Dolan (a rival for Peggy’s affection) and frame him for Andy’s disappearance and the gold theft.
• The Lone Ranger Gathers Evidence: The Lone Ranger meets with the Sheriff, revealing he suspects Vic Fletcher (who has a criminal background under other aliases).

Trapping the Outlaws (13:27–14:33)

• Nighttime Showdown: Vic and Lige try to ambush the Lone Ranger and Tonto at their camp but are outsmarted, proving the mask man’s prowess and raising further suspicion.

Framing Cliff and Cliff’s Revelation (19:22–24:02)

• False Accusations: Vic and his gang manipulate the Sheriff into suspecting Cliff Dolan, even planting evidence (gold dust) under Cliff's pillow to incriminate him.
• Cliff’s Discovery: Despite being accused, Cliff reveals he found Mike Moody’s hidden cabin and suspects Andy is being held there.

Notable Quote:

“But if you’re going to stand there and defy me like that, I’ll just have to jail you.”
– Sheriff Toddo to Cliff Dolan (22:20)

Rescue and Resolution (25:30–28:29)

• Race Against Time: Cliff and the authorities are delayed until morning by the villains, who intend to silence Andy for good.
• Final Showdown: The Lone Ranger, Tonto, Cliff, and the Sheriff arrive at the cabin just in time to rescue Andy and apprehend the outlaws.
• Twist: It’s revealed that Andy’s mule’s return was instrumental in alerting everyone that something was wrong.
• Andy’s Gratitude: Andy swears never to mistreat his trusty mule again, promising “the finest oats money can buy.”

Heartwarming Moment:

“And I was going to give him away. Sheriff, a feller don’t ever know and amuse his best friends. From now on, that critter of mine’s feeding on the finest oats... a dozen times a day.”
– Andy Clark (27:59)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• [02:16] Gold rush context & opening scene
• [03:54] Andy’s ambush by the outlaws
• [06:52] Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive at Peggy’s home
• [09:10] Vic Fletcher tries to implicate the Lone Ranger and Tonto
• [11:02] Villains discuss framing Cliff
• [13:27] The outlaws attempt to ambush the Lone Ranger at camp
• [19:22] Vic and Lige try to frame Cliff; gold dust “found”
• [24:02] Cliff reveals the location of Mike Moody’s cabin
• [25:30] Andy is found and rescued; standoff in the cabin
• [27:59] Andy shows gratitude to his mule

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Noteworthy Quotes

• Andy Clark (05:30):
  "You thieving, low down, sneaking coyotes. And you ain't gonna get away with this either."

• Vic Fletcher (09:11):
  "Just this, stranger. I'm here to say you fellas killed Andy, stole his dust..."

• Sheriff Toddo (22:20):
  "But if you’re going to stand there and defy me like that, I’ll just have to jail you."

• Andy Clark (27:59):
  "And I was going to give him away. Sheriff, a feller don’t ever know and amuse his best friends. From now on, that critter of mine’s feeding on the finest oats money can buy a dozen times a day."

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Tone and Style

The episode blends suspense, classic Western dialogue, moral lessons, and a touch of humor—especially in Andy’s banter with his mule. The Lone Ranger upholds his signature dignified, steady presence, while the villains are portrayed with an appropriate mix of menace and bluster. The camaraderie and quick wit of the supporting characters infuse the story with period charm.

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Summary

This classic Lone Ranger story masterfully delivers all the iconic elements of Golden Age radio drama: high-stakes frontier justice, clever schemes, a stalwart hero in the Lone Ranger, and a satisfying, heartwarming conclusion. The episode stands as a tribute to ingenuity, loyalty, and the importance of not underestimating even the most stubborn of companions—human or animal.

Transcript

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[Narrator]

A fiery horse for the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi O.

[Vic Fletcher]

Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Sam]

Sa. Sam.

[Narrator]

When gold was discovered in the western United States, thousands and thousands of men hurried to the new territory. Most of them were honest and worked hard at their claims. But criminals were drawn to the gold fields as well. And the honest prospector found it hard to protect their property. It was in the gold country that the Masked Rider of the plains did some of his greatest work in the cause of justice. And in time, he brought law and order to the lawless frontier. Return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse.

[Vic Fletcher]

Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. We're heading for Danville, fellows. Waiting on the trail ahead.

[Sam]

Hey.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, Silver.

[Sam]

Away.

[Narrator]

As our story opens, a small but wiry old man is urging his stubborn pack mule down the trail toward Danville.

[Andy Clark]

Dad.

[Lige Brinker]

Rat.

[Andy Clark]

You know, can't you make no better time than that? Gosh, I don't know why I put up with you the way I do. I swear to heaven, you're the most stubborn, cantankerous, wrong headed and addle pated critter ever was wished on a long suffering umber like me. Now get up. That's right. I says get up. And you stop. Now get away from that there grass. Don't be all us thinking of your stomach. We gotta get home to my daughter. And I'm telling you right now, Noah, when we get there, I'm sellin you off. And if nobody'll pay cash for you, I'll give you away. Blast you. Get along.

[Vic Fletcher]

There ain't no hurry, Andy.

[Sam]

Huh?

[Andy Clark]

Who said that? Who's there?

[Vic Fletcher]

Just stand where you are, Andy, if you don't aim to get drilled.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Come on, fellas.

[Andy Clark]

Vic Fletcher?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Uh huh.

[Vic Fletcher]

I want you to meet my friends Lige Brinker and Mike Moody.

[Andy Clark]

Them poon cats.

[Mike Moody]

That's a mighty reckless thing to say, Andy. When you're looking into the business end of this here gun, you ain't scaring me.

[Andy Clark]

Where the hoot, Lige? Vic, I never had much use for you, but I never thought you traveled with crooks like these.

[Vic Fletcher]

Well now you know.

[Andy Clark]

And Peggy's gonna know too.

[Vic Fletcher]

Maybe she. And maybe she won't.

[Mike Moody]

Quit arguing with the old kaja, Vic. Let's get his gold. Hey, what are you laughing about, you old fool? You think we're fooling? You're gonna find out different.

[Andy Clark]

So you want the gold has to pan out, huh?

[Mike Moody]

And we're taking it.

[Andy Clark]

And you thought I didn't savvy what you was up to that time a week back when you come prowling around my camp.

[Mike Moody]

You seen me.

[Andy Clark]

It'd take a crook, a heap slicker than you, Lige, to put anything over on me. So if it's a gold you want, just try and find it. Go right ahead.

[Mike Moody]

Why you. Vic. Mike. Look in them pack saddles.

[Vic Fletcher]

Yeah, you must have that dust around somewhere.

[Andy Clark]

And then when you get through hunting in them saddlebags, you can search me.

[Mike Moody]

If the gold ain't here, where is it?

[Andy Clark]

That's something you won't never find out. Why, I had a notion maybe you'd try a stunt like this. So I put that dust where it'd be safe till I get to town and back with somebody to keep guard.

[Vic Fletcher]

Nothing in the saddlebags, Lige.

[Andy Clark]

Told you, didn't I, Mike?

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Yeah.

[Mike Moody]

Andy here's got a notion. He don't want to tell us where he hid his dust.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

There's ways of getting him out of that notion, Lige.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Uh huh.

[Mike Moody]

That's what I was thinking. Suppose you could persuade him?

[Andy Clark]

Sure, I don't care.

[Mike Moody]

You aim to tell us where that goal is?

[Andy Clark]

I won't tell you nothing. You thieving, low down, sneaking coyotes. And you ain't gonna get away with this either.

[Cliff Dolan]

No.

[Vic Fletcher]

Come on, Lige. We gotta head back for town.

[Mike Moody]

Mike, me and Vic can't waste no time on this loco idiot. We're gone from town too long. Maybe we'll be asked questions when Andy don't show up. Yeah, but you're a trapper, Mike. You don't ever come to town. Listen. It's for supplies.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Mean you want me to take care of Andy?

[Mike Moody]

There's nobody but me. And Vic knows where your cabin is, Is there?

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

I'll give a thousand cash to anybody figures they can find it.

[Mike Moody]

Then that's where you're taking Andy.

[Andy Clark]

You gonna keep me prisoner?

[Mike Moody]

Unless you change your mind about telling.

[Andy Clark]

I ain't.

[Mike Moody]

But you will, Andy. You will get our horses.

[Andy Clark]

Vic lives. There's gonna be questions asked if I don't get to town soon. I told a stranger in his engine pod to let Peggy know that I was heading for home.

[Mike Moody]

And how do you figure that's gonna

[Andy Clark]

help you when I don't show? Feller sent out to look for me.

[Mike Moody]

They're welcome to look all they want. But once in Mike's cabin, they ain't going to find you, and that's for sure.

[Vic Fletcher]

There's the horses.

[Sheriff Toddo]

LI thanks.

[Andy Clark]

Come on, you blasted skunks.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now pay no mind.

[Mike Moody]

Anything Andy calls you Mike, get that gold. And don't be particular how you make him talk.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get up there. Get up there.

[Mike Moody]

Get up there.

[Sheriff Toddo]

This must be where old Andy said his daughter lived. Tando, I'm sorry we were delayed getting to town, but I have an idea we beat Andy here anyhow. Remember, Tanto, we're only to tell Peggy that her father's on his way home. Don't mention the gold he found. He wants to save that for a surprise.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me?

[Narrator]

No.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Come on, kimosabe. I hope my mask doesn't frighten her. I didn't want to put on a disguise. Me.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Here. Footsteps.

[Mike Moody]

Must be her.

[Sam]

Who? A madman and a redskin.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What's the matter, Peggy? Who's at the door?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Don't be alarmed, Peggy. We're not outlaws. We have a message from your father.

[Sam]

My father?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What's that? You were bringing word for Mandy.

[Andy Clark]

You are crook.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Careful, Sheriff, don't slap leather.

[The Lone Ranger]

You.

[Sam]

Sheriff, wait. Maybe. Maybe they do know something about Paul.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Is something wrong?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You just bet there's something wrong. And if you've seen Andy, speak up and tell about it.

[Sheriff Toddo]

We'll be glad to.

[Sam]

Won't you come inside?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Thanks. Come, Tyler. Who are these men?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Them two are Vic Fletcher and Lige Brinker. They's the one found Andy's mule.

[Vic Fletcher]

Howdy, stranger.

[Sam]

And. And this is my friend, Cliff Dolan.

[Cliff Dolan]

Afternoon, mister.

[Sheriff Toddo]

What did you say about Andy's mule being found?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Vic and Lige found it west of town, heading this way all by itself.

[Sheriff Toddo]

But Andy, what happened to him?

[Cliff Dolan]

That's what we don't know, stranger. The mule showed up three days ago. We figured at first that maybe Andy broke a leg or something, let the mule go on ahead so his help would be sent. But we searched all up and down the trail of the hills and we ain't found hide nor hair of him.

[Sheriff Toddo]

What about the gold?

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Gold?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What are you talking about?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Sheriff, I promised Andy I wouldn't tell about it. But under the circumstances, I think I'd

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

better get on with it.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Tahlo and I met Andy in his camp in the hills a couple of weeks ago. He said if we happen to ride in this direction, to let his daughter know he'd be coming home soon. But he asked us not to mention the gold so that he could give Peggy A surprise?

[Sam]

Sheriff, do you think that.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

That he was held up for his gold? Well, it could be.

[Sam]

Well, then. Then that could mean he. He's dead.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Oh, now, Peggy, I don't want to set you to worrying any more than you are already. Shucks, come to think about it, most likely the gold didn't have nothing to do with your pa's disappearing at all, Sheriff.

[Vic Fletcher]

I think it did.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What's that, Vic?

[Vic Fletcher]

Let me ask you a couple questions first, Sheriff, have you ever heard afore about Andy finding gold?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

It was news to me.

[Vic Fletcher]

And to me and Lige here, too. And I bet it's the first Peggy or Cliff heard about it. Ain't that so?

[Cliff Dolan]

Yes, it was just as much news to me as it was to the sheriff.

[Vic Fletcher]

Just think it over, Sheriff. This mask on Bree here and the engine are the only ones to know about that gold.

[Sheriff Toddo]

What are you getting at?

[Vic Fletcher]

Just this, stranger. I'm here to say you fellas killed Andy, stole his dust, then come here with a story of yours so folks wouldn't be suspecting you.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Did you say your name was Vic Fletcher?

[Vic Fletcher]

Of course it is. Oh, now, what's that got to do with us?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Just a second. Well, stranger, you heard Vic. What you got to say?

[Sheriff Toddo]

If we'd stolen the gold, why would we stay here instead of clearing out of this part of the country?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You might have had reasons.

[Sheriff Toddo]

We don't know about Sheriff Toddo. And I liked Andy. If anything's happened to him, we're just as anxious as you to learn what it is.

[Vic Fletcher]

What else could you say?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Maybe so, stranger, but I reckon, things being the way they are, I'll have to hold you for questions.

[Sheriff Toddo]

I don't think you will.

[Vic Fletcher]

Come on, Toto.

[Sheriff Toddo]

We're leaving.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't let her get away. Sir, come back here. Watch out. Oh, my head. An expert in the draw again. We'll get the same hurry, Tanner.

[Andy Clark]

Hail.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll find a place to camp Tyler, then look into this, huh? I'm afraid it's something more than just an accident that's kept Dandy from getting home. Why do you think that? If it weren't, he'd have been found along the trail. I believe someone else knew about Andy's gold.

[Lige Brinker]

Remember that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Right. And another thing. That young chap who called himself Vic Pletcher. That's not his name. He didn't recognize me because when we met before, I was in disguise. But that other time, he called himself Jerry Morton Hunter member. The law couldn't prove anything against him, but he was suspected of a score of crimes. And he hemmed Steel Cole. I don't know, Tuttle. But we're going to find out. Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

That night in the shack that Vic and Lige shared, the two men talked over their plans.

[Mike Moody]

Vic, that was a slick stunt.

[Lige Brinker]

Pointing suspicion that the mask fell on the redskin.

[Mike Moody]

As long as the sheriff had to find out about the gold. This will keep him from wondering what we've been doing the times we was out of town.

[Vic Fletcher]

I got a better idea than that.

[Narrator]

Lige.

[Lige Brinker]

Yeah, I suppose you've noticed I ain't

[Vic Fletcher]

been getting any place with Peggy of late.

[Mike Moody]

A blind fella could see she's all taken up with that Cliff Duelling.

[Vic Fletcher]

Well, what would you say if we

[Lige Brinker]

was to make it look like he robbed old Andy?

[Mike Moody]

Cliff?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Right.

[Vic Fletcher]

Don't you get it?

[Lige Brinker]

Who'd suspicion us of framing Cliff after

[Sheriff Toddo]

we said the mask Thriller most likely stole Andy's.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

The masked man again.

[Sheriff Toddo]

I haven't got much time.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You.

[Sheriff Toddo]

You've got to do exactly as I say.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I thought I seen the last of you yesterday.

[Sheriff Toddo]

But you didn't. Toto and I are staying until Andy's disappearance is solved.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

If Peggy and Cliff hadn't sort of taken a liking to you, I'd see you jailed, guns or no guns.

[Sheriff Toddo]

They believe I'm innocent.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Maybe they do, but that ain't saying I'm agreeing with him. Sir.

[Sheriff Toddo]

We're not even sure yet there's been a crime committed. But if there has been, I think I know the men who did it.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Huh?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Did you know that Vic Fletcher has gone by other names in different parts of the country?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Is that a fact? Say, I wonder.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Yes.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I just happened to think of something that struck me funny at the time.

[Sheriff Toddo]

What was that?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I told you. It was Vic and Lige found Andy's mule. But I ain't so sure that after they found it they had any intention of bringing it to town.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Why do you say that?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Because I run into him on the trail with that mule. And when I first seen him, they was going away from town. Then when I caught up, they said they was just heading for the Bar K outfit to see about some hosses and coming back.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Seems strange. They wouldn't have reported finding the mule right away. They knew its importance.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

That's what I was thinking.

[Sheriff Toddo]

And perhaps you'll be willing to help me make a test.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

A test?

[Sheriff Toddo]

I've been listening outside the cafe and I happen to know that Vic and Lige are coming here soon to ask you if you've seen me. You'll do What I say it won't prove their guilt, but at least it'll show whether or not I'm on the right trail.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Go ahead. I'm listening.

[Sheriff Toddo]

When they come to your office, tell them this.

[Lige Brinker]

The masked fellow's camp is just over there, ain't it?

[Mike Moody]

Beyond the gully.

[Lige Brinker]

I wonder how in blazes he could know anything about what we done. Maybe he don't. Maybe he's just bluffing. But we can't take no chances. He told the sheriff that when he talked to Andy, the old idget mentioned he was scared of being held up by a couple of fellas from town. Yeah, but what I can't figure out is why the masked fellow didn't name us to the sheriff if he was telling the truth. Don't you recollect the sheriff seeing the masked man heard us coming and cleared out before we got there? I didn't see nothing of him. He most likely went out the back way. Anyhow, he told the sheriff he'd be back in the morning to give names. And if he does, we'll have some explaining to do. Can't nothing be proved. But we'll be a lot safer if he don't never get to see the sheriff. I reckon you figure they're asleep by this time.

[Mike Moody]

They ought to be.

[Lige Brinker]

We've been hiding here ever since we trailed them from town. I want some action.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Come on.

[Lige Brinker]

We'll sneak up on them now. Careful of making any noise. There they are, rolled up in their blankets. We've got him dead to right. Ready? Yeah. Then come on.

[Vic Fletcher]

All right, you fellas, you're eating lead.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't make no move for your shooting irons. What's that? You fella?

[Vic Fletcher]

Watch the engine. Lige. Stranger, you feel this gun? I got pressed again. Ya. Well, in just about two seconds I'm pulling the trigger.

[Narrator]

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.

[Sam]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue the story. The Lone Ranger, knowing that old Andy Clark had found gold, suspected something more than an accident. When the old man failed to arrive in Danville, his suspicions pointed to Vic Fletcher and Lige Brinker. The two men hoping to prevent the Lone Ranger from talking, attacked him in his camp realm.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Vic.

[The Lone Ranger]

At them silver. That horse they're gonna get trifled over. Your own, not that gun.

[Mike Moody]

There it is.

[The Lone Ranger]

I dropped up with your hands, Vic. You clapped with them.

[Vic Fletcher]

If it hadn't been for them horse.

[Sheriff Toddo]

I have been trained to handle men like you.

[Mike Moody]

No don't shoot us. Why did you attack, stranger?

[Vic Fletcher]

We thought you were somebody else.

[Mike Moody]

Yeah, that's right. It was just a mistake.

[Sheriff Toddo]

A bad mistake.

[Mike Moody]

You ain't gotta do anything to us, are you?

[Sheriff Toddo]

Where are your horses?

[Vic Fletcher]

Just back aways behind them trees.

[Sheriff Toddo]

All right, get going and keep on going.

[Mike Moody]

Come on, Vic.

[Sheriff Toddo]

I'm coming.

[Mike Moody]

Why are you not keeping here?

[Sheriff Toddo]

It wouldn't do any good to make them prisoners tatter their attacks tonight. Reveal the fact that they've had something to do with Andy's disappearance.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

That's right.

[Sheriff Toddo]

We still don't know where Andy is. He may be a prisoner, he may be dead. He may be lying somewhere wounded. But we have to let Vic and Lige remain free until we learn the truth.

[Mike Moody]

Best of luck. Now what are we gonna do?

[Vic Fletcher]

Right now I'm going inside and get ready for bed.

[Mike Moody]

Yeah, what about tomorrow? The masked fellow sees a sheriff you're not flame. Well, that's what I mean.

[Vic Fletcher]

There ain't nothing we can do to stop it missing out just now. The masked man ain't gonna give us another chance at him.

[Mike Moody]

You think I don't know that?

[Vic Fletcher]

Like that Lampvic, like I said afore, maybe it was just bluffing.

[Mike Moody]

You can't depend on it.

[Vic Fletcher]

And anyhow, they can't prove nothing on us. They gotta find Andy before they can do that. If they find him in that cabin, I'll eat my shirt.

[Mike Moody]

Just the same, things are getting mighty uncomfortable.

[Vic Fletcher]

Wonder if Mike's got Andy to talk yet.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I don't know.

[Vic Fletcher]

There's two things we gotta do now.

[Mike Moody]

Yeah? What's them?

[Vic Fletcher]

I told you I had a scheme to frame Cliff, didn't I? Well, that's the first thing we gotta do. If the sheriff think Cliff's to blame for all this. And nothing a mask fella can say is gonna hurt her.

[Mike Moody]

And what's the other thing?

[Vic Fletcher]

Make Andy talk. Then get rid of him.

[Mike Moody]

Get rid of him.

[Vic Fletcher]

Don't ask foolish questions. You savvy what I mean? Just as well as I do. Come on. Blow out the lamp and turn in.

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[Narrator]

Early the following evening, Vic and Lige entered the sheriff's office.

[Vic Fletcher]

Howdy, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Evening.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Good evening, fellas. What can I do for you?

[Vic Fletcher]

Well, you seen anything more of that masked fellow after what he said to you yesterday?

[Mike Moody]

No.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

He promised to come back. But he didn't.

[Mike Moody]

He didn't.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

That's what I said, ain't it?

[Vic Fletcher]

Just what I thought. You see what he was doing, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What do you think he was doing?

[Vic Fletcher]

That was just a bluff about Andy telling him anything. He's still trying to get you to suspect somebody else instead of him.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

That might be so.

[Mike Moody]

Of course it is. Why else would he stay away after saying he'd be back?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I couldn't tell you, Sheriff. Yeah?

[Vic Fletcher]

I don't know whether I ought to say anything or not. Well, what do you think, Lige?

[Mike Moody]

It's up to you, Vic.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Look here, if you've got something to say, say it. If you haven't, don't be wasting my time.

[Vic Fletcher]

Sheriff, it's like this.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What's like what?

[Vic Fletcher]

You know that Mask fella we were just talking about?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Sure, I know.

[Vic Fletcher]

Now, you understand I ain't saying that Cliff's done anything wrong. Matter of fact, I'd say Cliff's as straight an ombre as you're likely to find around these parts.

[Lige Brinker]

But.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Well, doggone it, if you can't tell your story without stopping all the time. Get out of here.

[Mike Moody]

Sheriff, what Vic's trying to say is we seen Cliff talking to the Mask fella.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Yeah.

[Vic Fletcher]

And what struck me and Lige funny was they're trying to keep anybody from seeing him. Of course, like I said, I ain't for a minute accusing Cliff of being in cahoots with an outlaw. But things being the way they are, I. Well, I thought maybe you'd like to look into it for yourself.

[Mike Moody]

Why don't you go to Cliff's place, Sheriff, and ask him what him and the Mask fella was talking about?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You think I oughta?

[Vic Fletcher]

It's only fair to give Cliff a chance of clearing himself, ain't it?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Do you know that he's been accused of anything yet? Well, I. But won't hurt none to ask, I reckon. Come along.

[Mike Moody]

Sure.

[Vic Fletcher]

Our horses are just outside.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

I'll see what Cliff's got to say. But if he's been up there and think crooked, then I'll be the most surprised fellow in this county. Steady there. Get up. Get along with you.

[Vic Fletcher]

Get up there.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Here's Cliff's place.

[Vic Fletcher]

There's a light inside. He's home all right.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Who's there?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

It's me, Cliff. The Sheriff. Open up.

[Cliff Dolan]

The door ain't locked. Go on in. Evening, Sheriff. Hey, what are these poor cats doing here?

[Vic Fletcher]

Shucks, Cliff. There ain't no use you and me calling each other hard names just because we happen to like the same girl.

[Cliff Dolan]

Well, what are you doing here with the sheriff?

[Mike Moody]

I reckon the sheriff can tell you that.

[Cliff Dolan]

What's it all about, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Vic and Lyde's been telling me you were seen talking to the mask fellow, Cliff.

[Cliff Dolan]

And what of it?

[Vic Fletcher]

You see, he was talking to him. He admits it.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What was you talking about?

[Cliff Dolan]

I'm sorry, Sheriff. That's something I can't tell you.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Can't or won't?

[Cliff Dolan]

Just can't, that's all.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You ain't forgetting I'm the law around here, are you, Cliff?

[Cliff Dolan]

I ain't forgetting nothing.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Then maybe you're forgetting there's a heap of suspicion about the masked fellow lately.

[Cliff Dolan]

I said I wasn't forgetting nothing.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Oh, gosh, I don't know just what to do about this, Cliff. There ain't no young fellow around here I like better than I do you. And it sure hurt Peggy a lot if she was to think you was mixed up in anything that might have happened to her Pa. But if you're going to stand there and defy me like that, I'll just have to jail you.

[Cliff Dolan]

I guess I said I wouldn't tell you what me and the masked fellow was talking about, Sheriff. But there's something else I gotta tell you.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Huh?

[Vic Fletcher]

Look at here. Gold dust.

[Cliff Dolan]

Where'd you get that?

[Vic Fletcher]

Right from underneath the pillow on your car.

[Cliff Dolan]

That ain't so.

[Mike Moody]

I seen Big Finder myself. It was right where he said it was, Sheriff. You don't believe it? You can look out of the pillow yourself. There's still dust sticking to the bed.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

But it can't be.

[Vic Fletcher]

And I'll bet this was part of the gold Andy was supposed to have found.

[Mike Moody]

Gosh, Cliff, I never figured you for a crook.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Well, what have you got to say for yourself, Sheriff?

[Cliff Dolan]

I started to tell you something just before Vic stopped me.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Uh huh.

[Cliff Dolan]

And if I'm right about it, I think I can prove I'm innocent. Yeah, I was out of town this afternoon. Went riding over toward the hills.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What about it?

[Cliff Dolan]

You know Mike Moody, don't you?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

The trapper? Sure I do.

[Cliff Dolan]

Well, he was always one to hide out. He never wanted anybody to Find his cabin. And knowing the woods and the hills like he does, it wasn't hard for him to fix a place that nobody could find.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Go on.

[Cliff Dolan]

Well, today I found it.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You.

[Mike Moody]

You what? Found Mike's cabin?

[Cliff Dolan]

I did.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

What's his cabin got to do with proving you innocent?

[Cliff Dolan]

Sheriff, maybe I'm wrong. Maybe Andy ain't there with Mike. But I do know there's two fellows in that cabin. I seen him moving around from a distance.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Well, if you thought Andy was there, why didn't you get him and have Mike drill me? Anyhow, it took you long enough to tell me about it.

[Cliff Dolan]

Well, I just got back. I was going over to your office after I cleaned up a bit. Sheriff, you got to go there with a posse and see who's in that cabin before you jail me. If Andy's there, then he can tell you I never robbed him.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Can you take me there tonight?

[Cliff Dolan]

Well, I don't know. It's pretty dark. But I could take you there first thing in the morning.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Then that's what you're going to do. And between now and then, you're staying here with me so as I can

[Cliff Dolan]

keep an eye on you.

[Vic Fletcher]

Large, everything's going against us. And all because Mike let that blame you get away when we left him with Andy.

[Mike Moody]

I'll tell him a few things.

[Vic Fletcher]

Blame? Lucky for us, Cliff can't find the cabin at night. Steady.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

There.

[Vic Fletcher]

That gives us time to ride out there. First, get rid of Andy and make sure Mike don't do no talking.

[Mike Moody]

How about the gold?

[Vic Fletcher]

Maybe Mike's found out where it is by this time. But if he ain't to blaze us with it, the main thing is to save our hides.

[Mike Moody]

Get up there. Get up there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is that you, Tano?

[Andy Clark]

Oh, Scott. Oh, Scott.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Is everything ready?

[The Lone Ranger]

You hurry. Here's over. We ride fast. We'll have to.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Getting hungry, Andy?

[Andy Clark]

Of course I'm hungry.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Well, I reckon I made it plain what you had to do to get grub.

[Andy Clark]

Blast your thieving hide.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Mike, just tell where you hid your gold and you can fill your stomach till it busts. But if you're stubborn, you keep on getting nothing but bread and water once a day.

[Andy Clark]

If I told you where the gold was, you'd drill me.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Yeah.

[Andy Clark]

You couldn't let me go free to tell the law about you and them crooked partners of yours.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Well, suit yourself. Gosh, this is good grub. Best I've cooked up for a coon's age. I think I'll have another helping of them beans. And maybe I'll you needn't get excited, Andy. Couldn't be nobody but Vic and Lige. They're the only ones knows where this place is. Mike. Hey, howdy, Vic. Howdy, Lige. Man, what are you looking so scared about, Mike?

[Mike Moody]

Has Andy told you where the gold is yet?

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

He's still holding out. But after he's missed a couple of more square meals, why, I reckon he'll.

[Vic Fletcher]

We can't wait for that. But we'll ask if Cliff Dolan find your cabin. He's bringing a law here first thing in the morning. What?

[Mike Moody]

That's a fact, Mike. Cliff must have stumbled on this place accidentally.

[Vic Fletcher]

Why, the Lige untie Andy, will you?

[Mike Moody]

Sure.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

What do you want to untie him for?

[Vic Fletcher]

We gotta let the gold go. All it counts now is to see that Andy don't have the chance to do no talking.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Meanin'.

[Vic Fletcher]

I reckon you savvy what I mean? All right.

[Andy Clark]

I always said you fellas is lower than the meanest snake that ever lived.

[Mike Moody]

Keep your mouth shut.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

All right.

[The Lone Ranger]

There you are. Now get moving.

[Andy Clark]

Where are you taping me?

[Vic Fletcher]

Where nobody'll know whether you was drilled or not.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get along with you. We found the one. Sorry. What's the mask man? The sheriff.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

You bet it's the sheriff. And from the looks of things, we just got here in time.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, you won't get out. Good work, Toddle. Bring him in here.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Mike, if you or lies try that, you'll get shot.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

Andy, are you all right?

[Andy Clark]

Fit as a fiddle, Cliff, but well. Well, maybe I am just a wee bit hungry.

[Vic Fletcher]

I thought you fellas weren't coming this way till morning.

[Mike Moody]

Cliff said he couldn't find the cabin in the shucks.

[Cliff Dolan]

I couldn't have found it in the daytime for that matter.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

If you ask the mask feller, maybe he'll explain to you.

[Sheriff Toddo]

Right. None of us knew where the cabin was. You and Vic led us to us.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

Did you hear that, you blasted fools?

[Sheriff Toddo]

When I talked to Cliff this morning, I told him what to do. He rode out of town in the afternoon. Then when he talked to the sheriff, he pretended to have found the cabin while he was gone.

[Vic Fletcher]

How'd you know we had Andy in a cabin?

[Sheriff Toddo]

You and Lige gave yourselves away when you attacked Towno and me and our camp. Tahno trailed you to your cabin and heard you mention this place.

[Mike Moody]

Well, I'll be tar gond.

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

But even the masked fellow couldn't have done much if it hadn't been for Andy's mule. It was the mule showing up without Andy. That made us suspect something was wrong as soon as we did.

[Mike Moody]

That was your mistake, Mike.

[Lige Brinker (alternate or same as G)]

I forgot all about the mule.

[Andy Clark]

You say it was that dad ratted cantankerous critter that helped get me out of this fix?

[Sheriff Toddo (alternate or same as H)]

It was.

[Andy Clark]

And I was going to give him away. Sheriff, A feller don't ever know and amuse his best friends. From now on, that critter of mine's feeding on the finest oats money can buy a dozen times a day.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver old fellow, there's going to be trouble in Beaver Falls.

[Lige Brinker]

It. Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[The Lone Ranger]

Foreign.

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