The Lone Ranger - Reward Notice

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Summary: "The Lone Ranger – Reward Notice"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: May 28, 2026

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Overview

In this Golden Age radio episode of "The Lone Ranger," the masked hero and his loyal companion Tonto ride into the town of Dalton. There, they become enmeshed in a web of blackmail orchestrated by a corrupt eastern lawyer, Nick Kirby, who exploits the townsfolk’s checkered pasts for personal gain. Driven by a sense of justice, the Lone Ranger sets out to dismantle Kirby's operation, clear the innocents, and restore peace to Dalton—even as the very people he tries to help become convinced he's their greatest threat.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Setting and Setup (02:18–03:19)

• Dalton, a Lawless Frontier: The narrator lays the groundwork, describing the struggles of lawmen and citizens who can't rely on the law, turning instead to the Lone Ranger.
• Arrival at the Ranch: The Lone Ranger and Tonto pass through Dalton. Suspicion arises around Nick Kirby, a shrewd outsider who's quickly amassed land and power.

2. The Villain Revealed: Nick Kirby’s Blackmail (03:37–07:02)

• Kirby’s Scheme:
  • Kirby leverages past misdeeds for leverage: “Every cow and steer on that ranch was took from some man that bought silence.” – Woman in Dalton [06:22]
  • He demands livestock or coerced labor to keep residents' secrets from the law, or else he exposes them and claims a government reward.
• A Town in Fear:
  • Many townspeople are “wanted by the law for something or other. But they're living good lives.” – Woman in Dalton [05:20]
  • Kirby’s blackmail traps the townspeople between their secrets and the threat of jail time.

3. Lone Ranger’s Diplomacy and Empathy (05:35–07:20)

• Second Chances:
  • “Most everyone makes a mistake in a lifetime. Those who see the mistake and change to become good citizens are sometimes better than those who have never made a mistake.” – The Lone Ranger [07:10]
  • He refuses to turn in a woman who tried to shoot him, understanding her desperation and the community’s fear.

4. Gaining the Sheriff’s Confidence (10:40–13:16)

• Sheriff Allen’s Dilemma:
  • The sheriff is torn: he knows of Kirby’s guilt but can't expose him without also dooming the townsfolk whose secrets would be revealed as evidence.
  • “When folks are trying their level best to live decent and honest, I says give them a chance.” – Sheriff Allen [12:06]
• A Plan Forms:
  • The Lone Ranger requests old reward notices to pose as wanted men, aiming to infiltrate Kirby’s inner circle and locate the hidden evidence.

5. The Plot Unravels: Infiltrating Kirby’s Ranch (17:12–20:24)

• Deceptive Maneuvers:
  • The Lone Ranger and Tonto present the forged reward notices, convincing Kirby they’re infamous outlaws for hire.
  • Kirby takes the bait, planning to use them—first as muscle, then threatening to turn them in for a reward.

6. Double-Cross and Escape (20:24–23:18)

• Sleight of Hand:
  • The Lone Ranger, under the pretense of compliance, tricks Kirby and escapes, stealing Kirby’s boots—an odd but strategic move.
• The Pursuit:
  • Kirby and his henchmen vainly chase Tonto, believing the Lone Ranger is still with him, not realizing the masked man is doubling back.

7. Destruction of the Evidence (25:12–27:09)

• The Showdown:
  • The Lone Ranger and Sheriff Allen reveal the trick: Kirby unwittingly stepped in paint, leaving tracks straight to his evidence stash.
  • “That wasn't mud. It was paint. Tonto and I had placed it there before we rode up to your place the second time.” – The Lone Ranger [27:43]
  • The evidence is destroyed by fire—removing Kirby’s leverage and freeing the townsfolk from blackmail.

8. Justice and Resolution (27:10–28:50)

• Kirby Exposed:
  • With no more threats or secrets, the townspeople, led by the sheriff, turn on Kirby, prepared to testify against him.
  • “When you've been a lawman as long as I've been, you get sense enough to savvy when to take action and when not to.” – Sheriff Allen [28:16]
• The Lone Ranger Rides Again:
  • The legendary hero slips away, leaving behind his trademark anonymity and a safer Dalton.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Second Chances:

  • "Most everyone makes a mistake in a lifetime. Those who see the mistake and change to become good citizens are sometimes better than those who have never made a mistake."
    — The Lone Ranger [07:10]

• On Justice:

  • “When folks are trying their level best to live decent and honest, I says give them a chance.”
    — Sheriff Allen [12:06]

• On Cunning:

  • "That wasn't mud. It was paint. Tonto and I had placed it there before we rode up to your place the second time."
    — The Lone Ranger [27:43]

• On Integrity in Law:

  • “When you've been a lawman as long as I've been, you get sense enough to savvy when to take action and when not to.”
    — Sheriff Allen [28:16]

• Revelation of the Hero’s Identity:

  • "All I was going to say was that he's the fellow they call the Lone Ranger."
    — Sheriff Allen [28:33]

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Episode Flow & Important Timestamps

• [02:18] – Introduction and setup of Dalton’s struggles
• [03:37]–[07:02] – Kirby’s blackmail operation explained by a townswoman
• [10:40]–[13:16] – Lone Ranger’s strategy, sheriff’s cooperation, and prepping fake reward posters
• [17:12]–[20:24] – Lone Ranger and Tonto infiltrate Kirby’s ranch, set up for the deception
• [20:24]–[23:18] – Escape, boot theft, and bait-and-switch
• [25:12]–[27:09] – Destruction of blackmail evidence, Kirby’s plot unraveled
• [27:10]–end – Justice served, townspeople freed, and the Lone Ranger’s quiet exit

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Tone

The episode is suspenseful and earnest, capturing the spirit of classic radio adventure. The Lone Ranger is compassionate yet cunning; the townsfolk are desperate and wary; Sheriff Allen vacillates between duty and mercy. The resolution is clever, satisfying, and thoroughly old-time radio.

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This summary captures the heart of "Reward Notice"—a tale of justice, second chances, and the ingenuity of the Lone Ranger in one of his classic adventures.

Transcript

[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Narrator]

A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high O Silver, the Lone Ranger.

[Charlie]

Sam, it's.

[Narrator]

In the early days of the western United States. The local sheriffs had a full time job preserving the peace. They knew very little about law. There was no adequate court system and the men, women and children who couldn't defend their rights by force had no law enforcing agency to protect them. The masked rider of the plains was the only man to whom they could turn for help. And in time, high O Silver became the battle cry of justice. And now return with us to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Hank]

Come on, Silver. We're heading for Dalton. Santa's waiting on the trail ahead. Hail Silver away.

[Narrator]

Night overtook the Lone Ranger and his faithful Indian companion Tonto as they rode toward Dalton. The Rangers faced with the skies and the two men stopped at a large ranch house near the town. They talked with the ranchers, watered their horses and then continued on their way.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'd better put on my mask now.

[Sheriff Allen]

Tada.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's something about that man that I didn't like. Feller named Kirby. Yes, Nick Kirby. He's too shrewd looking. He seems suspicious of every move we made. That right. And he's a lawyer. How you know that? I saw a certificate on the wall. What would a lawyer from the east be doing here? And what would he want with a ranch as large as that? One of his mean hunt?

[Charlie]

No.

[The Lone Ranger]

And another thing. Those two cowmen we saw him with them plenty tough feller. One of them at least was an outlaw. Scar Larkin. You know him? Yes, he's wanted in Kansas. I wonder what he that shot said he Silver. It come from there. Hit him up, scout.

[Hank]

Come on, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's woman in that dry Gulf action. This way, Silver.

[Hank]

You drop gun. Two or two.

[Woman in Dalton]

Oh, wait, mister. Oh, don't shoot me.

[Hank]

Me got rifle now.

[Charlie]

Let go.

[Woman in Dalton]

Let go engine. Don't you kill me.

[Sheriff Allen]

All right, hunter.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let go of her arm.

[Woman in Dalton]

Wait. You. You ain't Nick Kirby.

[The Lone Ranger]

No, I'm not Nick Kirby.

[Woman in Dalton]

Oh, my sakes alive. Oh, thank the good Lord I didn't shoot you. He'd have been sin enough to kill Kirby, much as the pole cat deserves killing. But to drill the wrong man. Oh, stranger. Oh, don't take me to the law. I know I done wrong. I know I shouldn't have shot at you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why did you want to kill Kirby?

[Woman in Dalton]

There ain't a soul alive in Dalton that wouldn't like to see that snake put out of business. But there ain't no one who'd dare to kill him. I reckon I'm the only one in town who'd be willing to face the music.

[Narrator]

I don't understand.

[Woman in Dalton]

They know a bear. You're a stranger. You're wearing a mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Woman in Dalton]

Outlaw. I can't hold that against you. My husband, he. He was wanted for the law too. Fact is, most everyone in town is wanted by the law for something or other. But they're living good lives.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now there are lots of people who have made one mistake in their lives. But most of them deserve the chance to go straight.

[Woman in Dalton]

And oh, so did my husband. He. Ah, shucks, what's the use of talking about it?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'd like to hear about it.

[Woman in Dalton]

Yeah. You ain't holding it again me that I tried to shoot you.

[The Lone Ranger]

What about the lawyer, Nick Kirby?

[Woman in Dalton]

What did you think of a man that had break up a family? That's what Kirby done.

[Sheriff Allen]

He did?

[Woman in Dalton]

Yes. My husband was in the army. He'd done a double turn at guard duty and fell asleep. They was gonna court martial him. And so to save his life, he deserted.

[The Lone Ranger]

Deserter, huh?

[Woman in Dalton]

But that was years ago. Even before he was married. Somehow this lawyer critter learned about it. And he told them just what he's told everyone else in town.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that?

[Woman in Dalton]

Turn over half his cattle or he'd squeal.

[The Lone Ranger]

That accounts for his large ranch.

[Woman in Dalton]

Every cow and steer on that ranch was took from some man that bought Silence. Lem refused to pay tribute to Kirby. So Kirby turned him over to the government and got a fifty dollar bounty for it.

[The Lone Ranger]

And Kirby has been doing that sort of thing all along?

[Woman in Dalton]

Sure he has, Orin. Rich skunk. Everyone would like to kill him, but they don't dare do it. He's got it fixed. So if something happens to him, all he knows and everything he has on folks will fall into the hands of the law. So instead of drilling him, everyone has to protect him. Me? Oh, it don't matter. There's nothing more he can do to me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Does he have outlaws working for him?

[Woman in Dalton]

Sure. When a man can't afford to pay him what he demands, he makes the poor critter work his wrench for him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Not what you see. Yes, Hallow.

[Woman in Dalton]

Well, you got my story. Now what are you gonna do Turn me over to the law. No, you ain't.

[The Lone Ranger]

No. Most everyone makes a mistake in a lifetime. Those who see the mistake and change to become good citizens are sometimes better than those who have never made a mistake. I'm glad you told me the story.

[Woman in Dalton]

But a stranger.

[Hank]

Who are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, T, we're turning back.

[Woman in Dalton]

Hold on, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're going to make camp.

[Charlie]

Wait.

[Hank]

Come on, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get him up.

[Narrator]

In the town of Dalton, two men were talking with Sheriff Allen in the lawman's office.

[Sheriff Allen]

All right, Charlie, speak up. You fellows didn't drop in for nothing. Let's have it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well. Well, sure, if it's like this. Yeah, or you tell them, Hank. You said you'd do the talking, Charlie.

[Sheriff Allen]

Talk or get out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, it's about. About Homer Dodwell's missus.

[Sheriff Allen]

You mean the wife of the fella Nick Kirby turned in for deserting?

[The Lone Ranger]

Uh huh. Well, it's like this, Sheriff. She's mighty head up again, the lawyer. And we sort of got a notion. You better keep an eye on her.

[Sheriff Allen]

Seems to me you're mighty worried about Nick's health.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Sheriff, he ain't a bad fella, but.

[Hank]

And you wouldn't want to kill him

[The Lone Ranger]

in your county, would you?

[Sheriff Allen]

You fellas ain't fooling me. Huh? Tain't Nick's hide you're worrying about. It's your own. You think I'm blind? I see things, and I've got them pretty well figured out. There's nothing any of you'd like better than to drill Nick. But you know the whole town will get in trouble if you do.

[The Lone Ranger]

That ain't it, Sheriff? Shucks, where'd you get a notion like that, eh? Well, it's just that we wouldn't want to see any fellow shot, let alone what had happened to Mrs. Dardwell afterwards.

[Sheriff Allen]

I'll watch her. Gosh, Sheriff, that's it.

[Hank]

What's that? Say, you don't think something's happened to Nick already, do you? If it hears, I what the task, man.

[Sheriff Allen]

Look here, stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get these men out of here. I'm talking to you alone.

[Hank]

By God, don't slap leather.

[Sheriff Allen]

Hey.

[Narrator]

Hey.

[Hank]

Don't point that gun at me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get out.

[Sheriff Allen]

By thunder. I'm the law here. What's the meaning of this?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll explain when these men are gone. All right, you two. I'll see that you go and keep on going. Walk ahead of me. Where are we going?

[Sheriff Allen]

Evil.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Evil and Doug. There's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance. With Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Woman in Dalton]

Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Nick Kirby]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Hank]

Liberty, Liberty, Liberty, Liberty.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Charlie]

Or

[Hank]

just ease up on a trigger finger, won't you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Hank]

Don't. Don't do nothing you'd be sorry for.

[The Lone Ranger]

Those your horses?

[Sheriff Allen]

Uh huh.

[Hank]

That's them mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get mounted. Sure, sure, anything you say.

[Hank]

But we've never done you no harm, strangers.

[The Lone Ranger]

Any follow orders, huh?

[Hank]

What orders?

[The Lone Ranger]

Start riding and don't stop. When they catch you back here, there'll be trouble.

[Hank]

We ain't coming back.

[The Lone Ranger]

Honest we ain't. And this will help you get started on your way.

[Hank]

Get up there. Get up with you.

[Sheriff Allen]

Stranger. What in blaze?

[The Lone Ranger]

I just wanted to make sure our talk wouldn't be interrupted. Who's in that cell there?

[Sheriff Allen]

Huh? Him? Oh, that's just old Zeke Bagley. He's in jail half the time for disturbing the peace or something.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't want our talk to be heard.

[Sheriff Allen]

Don't pay him no mind. He's been over at the cafe and now he's sleeping at all. But doggone it, who are you to be asking me questions? You're mighty high handed for a crook.

[The Lone Ranger]

We met once before, Cheryl, quite a long time ago.

[Sheriff Allen]

Yeah.

[The Lone Ranger]

You don't remember me?

[Sheriff Allen]

Can't say as I do. Maybe you're on one of the reward notices that got filed away. But I'd have to see you without that mask to make sure.

[The Lone Ranger]

I have a horse called Silver.

[Sheriff Allen]

Silver?

[The Lone Ranger]

And a friend, an Indian named Toto.

[Sheriff Allen]

Well, I'll be.

[The Lone Ranger]

How do you remember?

[Sheriff Allen]

Well, I should smile, Garland. I was mistaken you for an outlaw. I must be getting old and useless to make a mistake like that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tell me something, Sheriff. What do you think of Nick Kirby?

[Sheriff Allen]

Why that low down owner is sneaking no account.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then what I've heard is true. Sheriff, would you help me bring him to justice?

[Sheriff Allen]

Ah, that something can't be done. Why not? The lawyer's too slick, that's why. You know what he's done? He's left a letter with a banker to be turned over to me in case he gets drilled.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Sheriff Allen]

Now understand I ain't supposed to know what's in that letter, but I got a pretty good notion it tells where he's hid the proof he's got agin the fellers in town.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then you know about that too.

[Hank]

Ha.

[Sheriff Allen]

I savvy a heap more than I give him credit for around here. And I'm telling you straight out, I'm on the side of the folks in town. I don't want to have see that evidence again. Em, maybe that ain't no way for a peace offer to talk. But when folks are trying their level best to live decent and honest, I says give them a chance.

[The Lone Ranger]

I still think something could be done.

[Sheriff Allen]

Well of course if anything happened to that there evidence, like it burning up or something, then it couldn't be given to me to act on, could it?

[The Lone Ranger]

But if the evidence is turned over to you, you'll arrest the men it implicates.

[Sheriff Allen]

A man's got to do his sworn duty.

[The Lone Ranger]

Of course. Sheriff, you said you had a number of reward notices on hand.

[Sheriff Allen]

Uh huh. Look at that desk over there. Spum chuck full with them.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll need two of them.

[Sheriff Allen]

Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

Two that don't carry pictures. One describing an Indian outlaw and the other describing a man about my bills.

[Sheriff Allen]

I most likely got him. But what do you want?

[The Lone Ranger]

I've heard Nick Kirby hires outlaws. And I have a notion that wherever he's hidden the evidence against the men in town, it isn't far from his house.

[Sheriff Allen]

But just between the two of us, friend, I'd say the same. Like I told you, I ain't sublime to some folks figure.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then give me those notices.

[Sheriff Allen]

I'll do that. Maybe it ain't just right and I won't say that maybe I don't suspicion a bit of what you got in mind, but if you can work it, I'm for you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm glad of that, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Allen]

Now let me see. No, this ain't the one. This ain't neither. Now dad. Reddit. Where did I put that? Shucks. Here's one. It's for an engine that knifed a U.S. marshal over Wyoming way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good.

[Sheriff Allen]

Uh huh. And here's another that'll fit you fine. There you are. And welcome.

[Nick Kirby]

Thanks.

[Sheriff Allen]

And mind you, I don't know anything about this, but man to man, it won't hurt to say that Nick's been looking for a couple of good gunmen. He ain't feeling as safe as he might these days.

[The Lone Ranger]

I can believe that.

[Sheriff Allen]

So here's wishing you luck. Nothing would suit me better than to see the folks around here rest a little easier.

[The Lone Ranger]

I knew I could depend on you.

[Sheriff Allen]

Would I be seeing you again?

[The Lone Ranger]

Not until I've taken care of Nick Kirby.

[Charlie]

Hey, Sheriff. What's that about the lawyer? What'd that feller say? Don't run it. Come here, won't you? What'd he say?

[Sheriff Allen]

When'd you wake up? Seek.

[Charlie]

Look here. What'd that feller say about fixin me? Kirby? That's what I want to know. What did he say?

[Sheriff Allen]

Now Zeke, don't you go getting excited.

[Charlie]

He's gunning for Nick. I'll bet that's what he's doing. He's gunning for the lawyer.

[Sheriff Allen]

You blame digits.

[Charlie]

Let me out of here.

[Sheriff Allen]

Are you sure you're sober enough to make it home?

[Charlie]

Dead rat. It sure. If I hadn't been what that masked weller said would have done it for me. Oh, come on now. Let me out.

[Sheriff Allen]

All right, all right. Just wait till I get the right key.

[Charlie]

Hurry. Blasted. Oh, golly. If that masked. But Drill's a lawyer, the whole town will be going to jail.

[Sheriff Allen]

There. Now don't do nothing foolish or I'll have to.

[Charlie]

Can't wait to talk to you, Sheriff. I gotta let the fellas know.

[Sheriff Allen]

Maybe I shouldn't have let you out.

[Charlie]

Folks, folks. Come around it. There's a feller gunning for the lawyer. Nick's gonna get shot. Boys, come fast. Listen to me. I got news.

[Hank]

When'd you get out of the calaboose?

[Charlie]

Won't you listen?

[Woman in Dalton]

Ya.

[Charlie]

You blame Galucha. There's a mask man. I heard him in the sheriff's office.

[Hank]

He was there. He's the one that chased us out of there. What'd he do to the sheriff? Nothing.

[Charlie]

All I know is that he said he was going to get Nick Kirby.

[Hank]

Nick Kirby? He can't get him. We can't let him get Kirby. If he gets Kirby, we're all headed for jail.

[Charlie]

Ain't I telling you that scene.

[Hank]

Come on, get your guns. Get after the masked man. We gotta drop him before he ruins all of us.

[Narrator]

Hunted by those he wants to help, the masked man is faced with a difficult problem as the curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger drama. Before the next exciting scenes, please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

[Charlie]

Sam. It.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. When the Lone Ranger's plans were overheard and the citizens of Dalton decided to capture him, the masked man in Tonto left the town for several days. They returned in the night shortly after a thunder shower and went Directly to Nick Kirby's ranch.

[Hank]

Four counter left.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hurry. Tanner, watch out for the steps.

[Sheriff Allen]

Huh?

[Charlie]

Me?

[The Lone Ranger]

Come

[Hank]

open the door. Open up there. Out of my way.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't want the door left open.

[Sheriff Allen]

What is this?

[Nick Kirby]

What do you mean by breaking in here?

[The Lone Ranger]

We want shelter for the night.

[Hank]

He was in a blasted big hurry.

[Nick Kirby]

Well, we don't care for strangers. Wait. Haven't I seen this Indian before?

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps.

[Nick Kirby]

Who are you two?

[The Lone Ranger]

In the west, people don't ask questions like that.

[Hank]

Why?

[Nick Kirby]

Hold on, Barney. Stranger, you wouldn't be keeping something undercover, would you?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's our business.

[Nick Kirby]

Yes, well, I'm making it my business. I've noticed before that people running from the law don't like to talk.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're not outlaws.

[Nick Kirby]

Oh, of course not. Of course not.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mind if I sit down?

[Nick Kirby]

Go right ahead.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, well, We've been working around.

[Sheriff Allen]

Look.

[Nick Kirby]

What's the matter, Scar?

[Hank]

Here, stranger just dropped these papers out of his pocket.

[The Lone Ranger]

Give me those.

[Nick Kirby]

I'll take them, Scar. Barney, watch the stranger and the Indian. If they make a move, shoot.

[Hank]

I'll keep an eye on them.

[The Lone Ranger]

Those are mine.

[Nick Kirby]

Sure. That's why I'll look them over.

[Hank]

Here you are, Nick.

[Nick Kirby]

Well, well. Reward notices.

[The Lone Ranger]

You wish you hadn't seen those.

[Nick Kirby]

And quite an accurate description too. So you're wanted for murder, huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm not.

[Nick Kirby]

Don't lie to me.

[Hank]

What's the other paper say?

[Nick Kirby]

This is for the Indian. He knifed a United States marshal.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me not do that.

[Sheriff Allen]

No?

[Nick Kirby]

Well, the government's pretty sure you did. Offering $500 for your capture.

[Hank]

Is that right, boss?

[Nick Kirby]

And there's a thousand offered for this other fellow.

[The Lone Ranger]

Golly.

[Nick Kirby]

They must be wanted bad.

[Hank]

You're gonna turn him in.

[Nick Kirby]

Nick, I was just thinking. Yes, stranger? Just how handy with guns are you in the Indian?

[The Lone Ranger]

Good enough.

[Nick Kirby]

Willing to show me I am. How about a test in the morning? And if you prove yourselves, I'll hire you.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're not interested.

[Nick Kirby]

I see. You'd rather go to jail.

[The Lone Ranger]

You turn us in?

[Nick Kirby]

Why not? You're worth money to me. Of course I'd rather not. I could use a couple good gun hands. But if you prefer jail, well, then

[The Lone Ranger]

you seem to have us.

[Nick Kirby]

Well, I'm glad you realize that. And it's agreed.

[The Lone Ranger]

We don't want to go to jail. Good.

[Nick Kirby]

Scar.

[Sheriff Allen]

Yeah.

[Nick Kirby]

You and Barney guard these men. Yeah. I'll put these reward notices away.

[Sheriff Allen]

Wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where are you putting those?

[Nick Kirby]

Well, stranger, that's what nobody knows of myself. And no one will ever find it out. As long as I have these. You'll do exactly what I say.

[The Lone Ranger]

Nick's been gone 10 minutes already. How far does he have to go?

[Hank]

Stranger, you can keep your questions to yourself.

[Sheriff Allen]

It ain't healthy to be asking things about Nick.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, he's coming back now. I heard him on the step. You ready? Come on, T. Watch out.

[Charlie]

They hit the lamp. Grab him, Barney. Get a hold of him. No, no.

[Hank]

Let them get out of here. I'll take care of you. What's going on?

[Nick Kirby]

Let go.

[Charlie]

Let me loose.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Scar. Hell.

[Hank]

Where's the entrance?

[Charlie]

I can't see a thing.

[Hank]

Hey, what are you doing? Let go.

[Charlie]

Men. Shoot them. Shoot up.

[Hank]

We'll have to hit one of us. You stand back.

[Charlie]

There's the injured.

[Hank]

Get him.

[Charlie]

He ain't here no more.

[Hank]

He slipped away.

[Charlie]

Wasp, where are you?

[Hank]

Over here. Hell, I'm through, Toddle. Let's go. Out the door.

[Woman in Dalton]

Stop them.

[Hank]

They're outside already. We don't like this other land. Come on, Sylvie.

[Charlie]

There.

[Hank]

Now maybe we can see what we're doing. Well, I'll be.

[Sheriff Allen]

Huh?

[Hank]

Look at Nick, Boss. Wedding blazers. Happened to your boots? Golly, they're gone.

[Nick Kirby]

Stranger knocked me down and took them.

[Hank]

Of all the loco things to do. What incarnation was his id?

[Nick Kirby]

I don't know, but they're going to pay.

[Hank]

You're going after them?

[Nick Kirby]

You bet I am. I gave them that chance, but they threw it away. Now we're collecting those rewards. Barney, bring me another pair of boots for my room.

[Sheriff Allen]

Right away, Nick.

[Nick Kirby]

I'll show those fellows what it means to cross. Nick.

[Narrator]

Kirby. Instead of racing away from the ranch, the Lone Ranger and Tonto held their mounts to a slow walk.

[The Lone Ranger]

The moon's beginning to break through the clouds, Tyler. They'll be able to see us. That'd be good thing. When they chase us, I'll break away at the first opportunity. You keep on, but don't let them get within gun range. They'll probably think I'm on ahead.

[Narrator]

Hunt.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't do that. I'll need an hour's time. I'll have to return to the ranch, ride into town and back to the ranch again.

[Sheriff Allen]

Me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep them way and I'll meet you on the hill overlooking Kirby's ranch house.

[Sheriff Allen]

There they are.

[The Lone Ranger]

They've seen us right any past. They want that reward money.

[Narrator]

Get him up.

[Hank]

See those trees? That's where I'll leave you. Those trees will give me cover.

[Charlie]

Hail Silver.

[Hank]

Away.

[Charlie]

Go.

[Hank]

More led their way. Expert catch for the man that drills them. They won't get away from us. Drill them, blast you. Drill them.

[Nick Kirby]

I'd Rather get them dead than alive.

[Narrator]

Unknown to Nick Kirby, however, the masked man had ridden off in another direction under cover of the trees. He returned to the ranch and then, when he'd finished there, raced into town. Hank and Charlie were in the cafe and heard the distant hoof beats of the great horse.

[Sheriff Allen]

Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Listen.

[Hank]

Come on, fellas. The masked man again. Coming right through town. Whoa.

[Charlie]

Look at him ride.

[Hank]

Stop him. Get him, man. Here he comes. Now's our chance. Get your horses. Come on, let's take after him. He's going to next place right now. Everybody out, Fellas. We're riding. If we're going to keep that fellow from killing Nick, now's the time to do it.

[Narrator]

In the meantime, Nick Kirby and his men continued their pursuit of Tonto Horse.

[Hank]

That engine horse don't ever seem to get tired. He can't keep it up. And how about the other fell? He just rolled Plum out of sight. I'm about ready to give. I say we won't.

[Nick Kirby]

500 is better than nothing. We'll get the Indian at least.

[Hank]

Get up there. Get up. Hey, what's the matter? Look where we're going.

[Charlie]

Huh?

[Hank]

There's Sandy Creek. There's Old Baldy. Over to the right. Fellas, our rescues got turned around.

[Charlie]

He's heading straight back for the ranch.

[Hank]

Big dog, ey?

[Nick Kirby]

That means he's so scared he doesn't know which way he's going.

[Hank]

We'll get him for sure. You bet we will. And he's going to be blamed. Sorry he took us on a chase like this.

[Nick Kirby]

Come on, get more speed out of these horses. He might give us a slip yet.

[Charlie]

Come on.

[Hank]

Get up.

[Charlie]

Get up. Get.

[Narrator]

The townsman followed the Lone Ranger to the hill overlooking Kirby's ranch and then lost him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now where in blazes did he get to?

[Hank]

I seen him a minute ago, then he just disappeared.

[Sheriff Allen]

I'm telling you, fellows, you're making a bad mistake. The masked man's on your side.

[Hank]

How come you know so much, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Allen]

Cause he's the man they call.

[Hank]

Are you looking for me? There he is. Now we got him. Blasted. He's got the drop on us again. If he hadn't come from behind us,

[Sheriff Allen]

we would have got him anyhow. I'm telling you, he.

[The Lone Ranger]

Listen to me, men.

[Hank]

Stop. God. No stranger. Maybe you mean well, mister, but you're just getting us in trouble and we can't stand for it.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll prove to you I'm not.

[Hank]

But you can.

[The Lone Ranger]

You've been afraid that if anything happens to Nick the evidence he's concealed will be turned over to the law and used against you.

[Hank]

We know blame.

[Sheriff Allen]

Well, it will.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, I can promise you it won't be.

[Hank]

You can't promise no such thing.

[Sheriff Allen]

Who's that coming?

[The Lone Ranger]

It must be Tonto Todo.

[Hank]

Who's he?

[The Lone Ranger]

You learn that later.

[Hank]

Oh. Oh, Scott. Oh. Oh, Scott. Good work, Tono.

[The Lone Ranger]

He gave me all the time I needed. Other feller come behind one of the fellows. Nick and his two gunmen. You can hear them now.

[Hank]

I say him. There's the skunk. Stranger, if you lay a hand on Nick.

[Sheriff Allen]

Leave this to me.

[Hank]

Pull that in the engineer. Outlaw, Sheriff. He knifed the US Marshal the last army. Looks like that other fellow. We was chased.

[Nick Kirby]

Sheriff, I demand their arrest.

[Sheriff Allen]

On what charge?

[Nick Kirby]

They're murderers, both of them. There's $500 reward for the Indian and a thousand for his friend.

[Hank]

We're claiming them rewards.

[Sheriff Allen]

Can you prove it?

[Nick Kirby]

I've got the reward notices. You stay here and I'll go after them right now.

[Sheriff Allen]

Don't bother.

[The Lone Ranger]

What?

[Sheriff Allen]

I gave those reward notices to the masked man in the redskins.

[Nick Kirby]

You mean that they're not.

[Sheriff Allen]

I mean they're not wanted by the law. They're not the men those bills describe.

[Hank]

You're crazy, you. The masked man's gone again. Where in places did he get to?

[Nick Kirby]

If he's got away, the Indian's still here. Redskin, you took us on that chase without any reason. And now I'm going to make you sorry you ever did something you not hurt.

[Hank]

Ton.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ho.

[Hank]

Everything's ready, fellow. You light him. Light what? What are you talking about? On what blazes are you. Wait.

[Sheriff Allen]

Hold your horses, fellas. I got a hunch something's gonna happen.

[Hank]

Flashing powder. My papers. The evidence. That's where I had it hidden. If you did, it's sure gone to glory. Now, what's that you said about your papers, Nick?

[Nick Kirby]

Sheriff, now you've got to rest. That mask, ma'.

[Charlie]

Am.

[Hank]

He's out, man. The evidence is gone. But wait. Listen, Nick. It's you the sheriff's gonna arrest. No, no, he can't. He can't do blackmailing a lot of us till we couldn't even call our names our own. And we'll all testify again. You Won't we, fellas? I'll have you jailed without no evidence. Nick, you're going loco, horse. How in tarnation did the masked fellow find your hiding place?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll tell you.

[Hank]

Blast you.

[The Lone Ranger]

You showed me yourself. You led me right to them.

[Hank]

I didn't. Nick.

[The Lone Ranger]

When you left your ranch house to Hide those reward notices. Do you remember stepping into a mud puddle?

[Nick Kirby]

Yes, but.

[Hank]

What's that?

[The Lone Ranger]

That wasn't mud. It was paint. Toddo and I had placed it there before we rode up to your place the second time.

[Nick Kirby]

Then. Then I walked in it and.

[The Lone Ranger]

And left tracks that took me straight to the evidence you've been concealing so carefully. You tricked me.

[Hank]

And, boss, that must have been why the masked fella took your boots away. He didn't want you to catch on to what you done.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's it exactly.

[Hank]

And to think we fellows in town was doing our best to stop you, Friend Charlie. It just goes to show you never

[Sheriff Allen]

can tell when you're well off. All right, Nick. You're going to jail pronto.

[Nick Kirby]

But, Sheriff, you know I had proof against these men. You know the masked man blew it up.

[Hank]

You have to do something, Nick.

[Sheriff Allen]

When you've been a lawman as long as I've been, you get sense enough to savvy when to take action and when not to.

[Hank]

Hey, wait. Gosh, he never even waited to be thanked. I never seen another fellow like him. Sheriff. What was that you started to say about him a while back?

[Sheriff Allen]

Why, all I was going to say was that he's the fellow they call the Lone Ranger.

[Hank]

Come on, Silver, old fellow. There's adventure down in Texas.

[Charlie]

I know, Silver.

[Hank]

Away.

[Nick Kirby]

There's.

[Narrator]

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

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