A Nephew Is Found | The Lone Ranger (12-25-42)

Summary

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Episode Summary: A Nephew Is Found | The Lone Ranger (12-25-42)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Show: The Lone Ranger
Release Date: July 29, 2026
Episode Airdate: December 25, 1942

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Main Theme & Purpose

This classic Lone Ranger episode, “A Nephew Is Found,” offers a touching and revelatory story weaving together family history, sacrifice, and the passing of a heroic mantle. Digitally restored by Old Time Radio Westerns, the audio drama brings listeners into the snowy frontier as a dying grandmother, Gran, unveils secrets about young Dan’s origins and his unexpected connection to the Lone Ranger. The episode is both an origin tale for the Lone Ranger’s sidekick and an exploration of legacy, courage, and belonging within the mythic West.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Setting the Scene: Snowbound in the Border Country

• [04:25-04:58] The story opens on a wintry landscape, with Gran (Mrs. Reed) confined by age and illness. The doctor assures her rest will suffice, but she’s aware her time is short.
• Gran’s main concern centers on her grandson, Dan—the last of her family—prompting reflections on mortality and continuity.

2. Gran’s Request and Dan’s Loyalty

• [05:54-07:14] Gran asks Dan about his closest friend besides her; Dan names the Lone Ranger, revealing his deep admiration:

  “When I grow up, I want to be just like him.” – Dan ([06:53])

• She asks Dan to find the Lone Ranger—a task he trusts can be fulfilled by signaling from the hill despite the storm.

3. Summoning the Lone Ranger

• [08:02-09:10] Dan sets signal fires, a ritual between him and the masked man. The Lone Ranger and Tonto, having concluded the pursuit of an outlaw, recognize Dan’s call.

  “When the masked man saw three signal fires high on the mountaintop, he knew it was Dan who wanted help.” – Narrator ([08:57])

4. Reflections on Mortality and Character

• [09:36-10:27] Dan expresses fear for Gran’s life. The Lone Ranger delivers a heartfelt philosophy:

  “People who live long and useful lives never really die. The goodness they have given to the world lives after them…” – The Lone Ranger ([10:09])

5. Gathering at Gran’s Bedside

• [11:01-12:23] At Gran’s home, neighbors gather as she prepares to reveal a well-guarded secret. She asks for a keepsake box, signaling the beginning of the story that connects the past to the present.

6. Gran’s Story: Wagon Trains & Tragedy

• [12:23-19:07] Gran recounts traveling west with another woman, Linda Reed, and her infant son Dan. When their wagon train is attacked, Linda is killed, and Gran promises to care for baby Dan.

• Memorable Moment: The siege scene resonates with tension and loss:

  “If the object of this raid is to kill a young mother, the Indians are successful.” – Gran ([18:59])

7. The Grim Tidings at Fort Laramie

• [19:49-20:22] Upon reaching safety, Gran receives word that her own husband and Dan’s father (a Texas Ranger) have both been killed—leaving her the sole guardian of the orphaned Dan.

8. Tying the Lone Ranger’s Past to Dan

• [20:41-25:15] Gran recounts the fateful ambush at Bryant’s Gap, where six Rangers—including Dan’s father and uncle—are apparently killed.

  • The Lone Ranger emerges as the lone survivor, rescued by Tonto, and presumed dead. He devoted his life to justice under the mask.
  • Key Quote:

    “He was the bravest of all. Six times Dan’s father was hit before he finally was beaten…But one of those men did live.” – The Lone Ranger ([23:07-23:35])

• The revelation builds:

  “Dan’s father was my older brother.” – The Lone Ranger ([25:11])

9. A Hidden Heritage Revealed

• [26:10-27:41] Gran gives the Lone Ranger Dan’s mother’s locket. The Lone Ranger removes his mask so Gran can see “the same clear eyes, forehead. Everything. You and my Danny boy.”

  “Put the mask on again, Lone Ranger. The west needs you.” – Gran ([27:15])

• Gran passes away peacefully, content Dan has a protector and that the family line—and values—will endure.

10. A New Beginning for Dan and the Lone Ranger

• [28:37-29:26] The Lone Ranger reveals Dan’s heritage to him, showing the locket with pictures of his parents and himself.

  “Your father was my older brother.” – The Lone Ranger ([29:00])
  “Then you…You must be my uncle.” – Dan ([29:03])
  “There’s just the two of us, Dan, to carry on.” – The Lone Ranger ([29:15])
  “But you take his place now.” – Dan ([29:20])
  “You bet I will, son.” – The Lone Ranger ([29:26])

  Their partnership is solidified—a passing of generational hope and kinship.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [06:53]

  “When I grow up, I want to be just like him.” – Dan

• [10:09]

  “People who live long and useful lives never really die. The goodness they have given to the world lives after them. The hearts and minds of everyone they've known…” – The Lone Ranger

• [19:07]

  “If the object of this raid is to kill a young mother, the Indians are successful.” – Gran

• [25:11]

  “Dan’s father was my older brother.” – The Lone Ranger

• [27:15]

  “Put the mask on again, Lone Ranger. The west needs you.” – Gran

• [28:59]

  “Have you…” – Dan

  “Your father was my older brother.” – The Lone Ranger

• [29:20]

  “There’s just the two of us, Dan, to carry on.” – The Lone Ranger

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Important Timestamps

• [04:25] – Gran’s doctor visit and concern for Dan’s future
• [06:53] – Dan reveals his admiration for the Lone Ranger
• [08:02] – Dan climbs the hill to signal the Lone Ranger
• [10:09] – Lone Ranger’s view on legacy and death
• [12:23-19:07] – Gran’s flashback to the wagon train and tragedy
• [23:07-23:35] – The Lone Ranger tells of the Rangers’ last stand
• [25:11-25:15] – The Lone Ranger confesses his kinship with Dan
• [27:15] – Gran’s last wish to the Lone Ranger
• [28:59-29:26] – Lone Ranger and Dan accept their new bond

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Tone & Storytelling Style

The episode maintains the classic, sincere, and heartfelt tone characteristic of Golden Age radio dramas. The narration is vivid and evocative, with strong themes of sacrifice and morality. The Lone Ranger’s dialogue is stoic yet compassionate, and Gran’s wisdom and affection are pronounced throughout. The story transitions seamlessly from the immediacy of the snowy present to flashbacks full of danger and loss, then back to a sense of hope as family ties are uncovered and the future bond established.

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Conclusion

“A Nephew Is Found” stands as a pivotal Lone Ranger story, revealing the secret family connection between the masked man and his young companion, Dan. It delivers a touching meditation on legacy, resilience, and the power of good deeds to transcend generations. The episode ends not with an ending, but with a new beginning—a promise that the spirit of justice and kinship will continue to ride across the West:

“Ride on, Lone Ranger. Ride on forever with Danny at your side.” – Gran ([27:27])

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Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

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[Narrator]

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. The stories of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, have come down to us through the generations. And nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now 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. Come on, Silver. Come on, big fella.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Are you Silver?

[Narrator]

It was snowing in the high border country. Snow was everywhere. It fell in soft, swirling plumes of crystal that covered everything with white. The chill of it seemed to partially penetrate a warm room and shadowed the face of a kindly old woman whose only illness was age. Yet despite the snow and the chill of a storm, the woman's voice was clear as she questioned the doctor who stood beside her. Well, Dr. Sawyer, hard action, slow respiration normal for a woman of your age.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

That all?

[Narrator]

Well, I'm sure with a little rest and perhaps a tonic, you'll be all Right.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Chiddlesticks. All I want is rest. A long, peaceful rest. I know about my heart.

[Narrator]

I see. How about the boy, Dan? You're his only relative, aren't you?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

That's why I wanted to know how much time I have. Where's Dan now?

[Narrator]

He was waiting in the other room when I came in.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

On your way out. Tell him to come here, will you?

[Narrator]

On my way out? Why, I haven't prescribed anything.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

The only prescription I need, Doctor, is the one I'm asking for. Send Dan in.

[Narrator]

Just as you say.

[Dan]

How's Graham feeling, doctor?

[Narrator]

She wants to see you, Dan.

[Dan]

You mean I could go on in?

[Narrator]

She asked me to tell you I'll wait here.

[Dan]

Graham.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Come here, Dan. Sit down by my bed.

[Dan]

Doc Sawyer says you want to see me.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Yes, Dan. I'm going on a journey.

[Dan]

A journey?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Mm. I'm going alone, Dan. You'll stay here, Gran.

[The Lone Ranger]

Okay.

[Dan]

May I go?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

This is one trip I'll have to make alone.

[Dan]

What do you mean?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I'll explain it later, son. Right now I want you to do something for me.

[Dan]

Of course, Gran.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Who is your best friend?

[Dan]

My best? Why, you are.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

No, no, I. I mean, besides me. To whom do you feel? Closer than anyone else,

[Dan]

I guess. If you rule yourself out. There's only one other person.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Who is it, son?

[Dan]

The Lone Ranger. Was Mr. Martin before the Lone Ranger came here?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Yes, I thought so, and it makes me very happy. You think a great deal of the Lone Ranger, don't you?

[Dan]

Well, when I grow up, I want to be just like him.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

You couldn't choose a better model, son. And now, even though it's snowing outside, I'm sure you won't object to running a little errand for me.

[Dan]

Oh, sure.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Grant, I want to talk to the Lone Ranger. Can you find him for me?

[Dan]

Find him? Sure I can.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Where is he?

[Dan]

I don't know, but he'll answer my signal. He always does. Shall I go right now?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Please.

[Dan]

Are you sure you'll be all right? I don't know how long it'll take. I have to go up on top of the hill.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Don't worry, Dan. I'll be waiting.

[Dan]

I'll hurry as fast as I can.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Kiss me, Danny.

[Dan]

Sure.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

That's a good boy.

[Dan]

I'll be back now. Bring the Lone Ranger with me.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Be sure and wear your heavy coats.

[Dan]

Maybe I ought to stop at Mr. Martin's. He and Betty could come over and sit with you till I get back.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Well, if it isn't too much trouble.

[Dan]

I'll bet they'd Be glad to come over. Goodbye, Gran.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Goodbye, son. And hurry back.

[Narrator]

Dan guided his horse up a narrow trail until he reached the highest point of a mountain overlooking the valley. Then he dismounted and quickly gathered an armload of dry twigs from under high fir and spruce trees that gave protection from the snow. A few moments later, he had them arranged in three separate piles. When he applied a match, flames leaped upward like three bright plumes against the blackness of the night. The Lone Ranger and Tonto had followed the trail of a killer from the southwest. Crossing many states, they finally brought the outlaw to justice. Just south of the Canadian border, here in the snow covered, rugged mountains of the Copper country, they had met Dan, a 14 year old boy. There was a strange, unexplainable interest in the boy. His qualities seemed to be so like those of the Lone Ranger that Tonto was amazed. The Lone Ranger himself was surprised at Dan's knowledge of the woods and mountains, his understanding of the Indians, and his resourcefulness and courage. When the masked man saw three signal fires high on the mountaintop, he knew it was Dan who wanted help.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

Get up, Scout. Tonto rode just behind the Lone Ranger from the hidden camp to the hilltop where Dan waited.

[The Lone Ranger]

I knew you'd chub easy, big fella. What's wrong, Dan?

[Dan]

Gran wants to see you. She asked me to find you.

[The Lone Ranger]

How's your grandmother feeling? She's been ill, hasn't she?

[Dan]

I'm kind of worried.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did you send for a doctor?

[Dan]

Oh, sure. Doc Sawyer's there now. He stayed around. Gran talked sort of funny. Said something about going on a trip alone, not taking me with her. Then she asked me to bring you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, I. I see.

[Dan]

I've been thinking about it and wondering. Gran's pretty old. Maybe she. Maybe she thinks she's gonna. Do you think there's any chance of. I mean, do you think she might die?

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, people who live long and useful lives never really die. Gee, the goodness they have given to the world lives after them. The hearts and minds of everyone they've known. Your grandmother's one of those kind of people. She will someday leave here, but she won't die.

[Dan]

Yeah, Gran is like that. I see what you mean.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let's go to the house. Here we are

[Narrator]

other people here, too.

[Dan]

That's Mr. Martin's cutter. He's here with his daughter. You know what I said about good deeds living forever in the hearts and minds of everybody?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Dan]

If everybody just figured that way, there'd be a lot less trouble in the world.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why, yes. Dan. What made you Say that.

[Dan]

I don't know. Just seems like ordinary good sense.

[The Lone Ranger]

Truth is always that way, Dan. Just ordinary good sense. Let's go in.

[Dan]

Gran's in the front room. Come on, Dan.

[The Lone Ranger]

What? What A lone ranger.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Come on in. You're back sooner than I expected.

[Dan]

We made it as soon as we could, Gran.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good evening.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Good evening. I suppose you are wondering why I sent for you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm proud that you did.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Well, Betty. Betty, look in that chest over there and bring me the small cardboard box that's in the top drawer. Of course. Is this it? Thank you, child. These are very dear keepsakes of mine. I've never showed them to anyone before, see? Why, they're baby clothes. What an adorable little dress. Just like the tyke who used to wear it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Are those keepsakes part of the story?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

They're the beginning.

[Dan]

What do you mean, Gran?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

It was almost 14 years ago, but I can remember everything as though it had happened yesterday.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tell us about it.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

When Jim, that was my husband, had been anxious to come out west for years. He read all the reports of the Lewis and Clark expedition and finally we decided to make the move. We traveled together as far as Council Bluffs. I waited there while he came on ahead. A few months later, he sent for me. He'd found this valley and decided it'd be our home. Well, naturally, I joined the next wagon train that was headed west. I'll never forget that trip. We left Council Bluffs at midnight for what was to be the greatest adventure of my life. Young man?

[Narrator]

Yes, sir?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Can you tell me where I'm supposed to ride? My baggage is in one of the freight wagons, but I can't find a spot seat for myself.

[Narrator]

Well, if you're not too particular, ma', am, you can ride my wagon right here.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Oh, thank you. You're very kind. Now, if I.

[Dan]

Here, here, let me help you up.

[Lady Luck]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

I've only got one other passenger. She's in the back of the wagon there someplace. You two ladies will be riding together for quite a spell, so you'd better introduce yourself. I'll be right back.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I guess I'm the other passenger he's talking about. Well, I'm very grateful. We have a long trip ahead of us and with three people here in the wagon. Oh, there really are four. I have a son. Son? Oh, excuse me. I didn't notice any boy scampering around here. Oh, he's hardly old enough to scamper. He's asleep in that basket. Do you want to see him? Of course. It's rather chilly tonight. So he's well covered. But now.

[Dan]

There.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Lovely baby. How old is he? Six months, Almost seven. Isn't this a rather difficult trip for. For a baby so young? He doesn't mind it. He thrives on traveling, just like his baby. Is your husband with you? No, he's going to meet us at Fort Laramie. You see, he's a Texas Ranger and our home is really down south, but. Oh, excuse me for being so rude. My name is Mrs. Reed, Linda Reed. This is Daniel. He doesn't acknowledge introductions very well when he's asleep. I'll excuse him. I'm sure the young man and I will become better acquainted before the trip is over. I didn't know then how tragically those words would come true. The wagon train left Council Bluffs that night and we traveled for days through the desert and wild country. Linda and I became fast friends during that time. And the baby, Little Dan, liked me too. Well, nothing of importance happened until the night before we were scheduled to arrive at Fort Laramie. Then, just after we'd made camp with all the wagons drawn up in a big circle, one of the trail scouts rode back with news that terrified all of us. What is it? What's wrong?

[Narrator]

You and Mrs. Reed better hug the bottom of the wagon, ma'.

[Dan]

Am.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Is there going to be trouble?

[Narrator]

Plenty. A pass. La Cheyenne engines are headed this way.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Don't worry, Linda. There are plenty of men and rifles with this train. Get Dan and stay back here under cover. Oh, I will, but what? Well, I'll help the other women reloading the rifles. Here they come. Millions of.

[Narrator]

The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger story. Before the next exciting scenes, please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

[Dan]

Hey everybody.

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[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Sam. Sa.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story, the eyes of everyone in the room, Dan The Lone Ranger, Dr. Sawyer, Mr. Martin and Betty were on Dan's grandmother as she continued her story.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

As long as I live, I'll never forget that awful night. Hundreds of yelling savages riding round and round our wagon camp in a circle that grew steadily smaller. They were using guns, spears and flaming arrows. Within a few moments, several of the wagons were afire and some of our men had been killed. I was busy keeping rifles loaded for our wagon driver.

[Narrator]

Got that other one ready, ma'.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Am. It's still hot, but I think you can use it. I'm sure there must be something I can do. Please let me help.

[Narrator]

Get down.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Don't stand up like that. Stay below the edge of the wagon. Mrs. Reed, you're a perfect target.

[Narrator]

Go to her, ma'.

[The Lone Ranger]

Am.

[Narrator]

I'll stay here and sling the lead. Just as long as there's any left.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Mrs. Reed. Linda. Why, you.

[Narrator]

How is she, ma'?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Am? If the object of this raid is to kill a young mother, the Indians are successful.

[Dan]

Them dirty, sneaking Cheyennes.

[Narrator]

I'd like to, but.

[Dan]

A young one?

[Narrator]

Mrs. Reed's boy. What'll become of him?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I'll take care of him until we get to Fort Laramie and meet his father. You'll trust me, won't you, dad? As it turned out, the little fella didn't have much choice. He had to trust me.

[The Lone Ranger]

You say his name was Reid?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

The Indian.

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Reed.

[Dan]

What happened?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

It was almost a massacre, but not quite. There were enough of us left alive to care for the dead and wounded. We reached Fort Laramie two days later. And Mrs. Reed? She's buried there on the prairie.

[The Lone Ranger]

Was the baby's father waiting in Fort Laramie?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

No, he wasn't. The only thing waiting for the boy and me was more grief. Two death messages.

[The Lone Ranger]

Two.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Jim, my husband, had been killed in a blasting accident clearing the ground for this very house we're in right now. The other message was addressed to Mrs. Reed. I opened was from a commanding officer of the Texas Rangers down south someplace.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Rangers?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Yes. The boy's father was dead. Killed in ambush while on duty.

[Dan]

This baby, you call him Dan?

[Narrator]

Could.

[Dan]

Could he be any relation to me?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Then you were that baby.

[Dan]

Gosh.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan's father. You said he was killed while on duty with the Texas Rangers?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

You know any more about it? Any other details?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Hargraves, the commanding officer, wrote me a letter explaining everything in detail. It seems that he called on six of his best men, had them come together, fully armed.

[Narrator]

Boys, I've got to send you on a job I wouldn't turn over to my worst enemy. Where we going?

[The Lone Ranger]

What's the assignment and how far is it?

[Narrator]

There's a place called Bryant's Gap. Just beyond is the basin where old Bryant lives. I've heard of the place. Reed. I don't like to send you men on this job. Those outlaws aren't the hiding sort. They're more likely to be waiting with guns. Well, isn't it possible that we can slip into the basin without their knowing it? It's possible, but not probable. They know about everything that goes on. There are a dozen places in the gap before you reach the basin where they could ambush you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, if there are no instructions, sir, we'll start.

[Narrator]

Oh, one thing, Reid. Aren't you expecting your wife and son from the east?

[Dan]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Then I'll send someone else in your place. No, thanks, sir. This is my job. I'll go with the others. But if you don't, my brother's going along too. One of us will come through.

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps you'd better stay with a good

[Narrator]

fight in the offing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Not on your tintype.

[Narrator]

Let's travel. Get up there.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Mr. Hargrave said that was the last time he saw his men alive. The next thing he knew, they'd been waylaid and killed. And by the time he got to the gap, there were six graves with the saddles and hats of the Texas Rangers to mark Hargraves.

[The Lone Ranger]

What about him? I knew him somehow.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I don't know why I felt that fighting men like Dan's father and the brother must have pulled out of there somehow. Remember, they weren't actually seen dead. All the officer knew was that he saw their graves.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's the matter with the Lone Ranger?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I don't know, dad. Look at his hand. It's actually trembling.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's the matter then? Mr. Martin, Betty, all of you. I would like to have a few minutes alone with Mrs. Frisby. How's that?

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Come, Father. We'll go into the other room.

[Dan]

Is there something wrong?

[Narrator]

Please. Very well. Come then,

[The Lone Ranger]

Misses Frisby. Let me tell you a little more of the story. More of that massacre you know. Yes, Yes, I know about it. Those six Texas Rangers were riding through Brian's Gap. They knew that the high rocks on both sides gave plenty of hiding places for anyone who wanted to waylay them. There was nothing that could be done about it. Suddenly, without warning, the shooting started. Two of the men fell from the saddle without a chance to use their guns. Two others were wounded, but returned the fire. Dan's father was hit four times. Still he fought. He was the bravest of all. Six times Dan's father was hit before he finally was beaten. The other Rangers fought their best, but they had no chance. They were in the open and their enemies were shielded by rocks. The fight was over in a few minutes. But one of those men did live.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

He recovered consciousness to find his friends all dead. He was so weak he couldn't stand. Crawled along the canyon floor, wondering each moment why the outlaws didn't shoot again. He didn't know that he'd been unconscious for hours. Finally found a small stream of water and followed this to a cave. In the cave, the Texas Ranger lost consciousness again. He didn't recover for a long time. When finally he opened his eyes, he saw an Indian standing near him. He found that his wounds had been dressed. Hot broth was ready for him to eat. The Indian said, me Tonto, Tonto.

[Narrator]

Other Ranger all gone.

[The Lone Ranger]

All dead.

[Narrator]

Ah, me bury him. He make six grave. Outlaw think all Ranger dead. You dead doth others.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, but why did you. Why did you do that?

[Narrator]

You wear mask. Outlaw not know you still alive. You only one to get revenge.

[The Lone Ranger]

The only survivor.

[Narrator]

Ah, you lone survivor.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Then you were there. You were one of the Texas Rangers.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

You were the one who got every one of those outlaws. Then you had to carry on your work. You were officially dead.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Tell me. Tell me what? I want to know.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan's father was my older brother.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Then you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I am Dan's uncle. You see, my brother was several years older than I. I'd always admired him. From the time we were little fellows, we fought each other's fights. He taught me to ride my first horse. He used to hold me on his knee like our father to held him and tell me stories of adventure. I would have given my life for him. When he came west and joined the Texas Rangers, I too joined as soon as I could. After my brother was killed, I heard about the death of his wife.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Now I know why an all wise providence allowed me to live this long.

[The Lone Ranger]

For years I wondered about the boy. I never could find out whether he was alive or dead. I didn't know where to search for him. I only hope that I can be to Dan what my brother was to me. I promise you, I'll always take care of him. I want to think of him as if he were my own son.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

I have something here. I was going to hand it to you anyway. This little gold locket. Dan's mother wore it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, wait. I want to take off my mask.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

My eyes. They're not as good as they used to be. The candle. Will you bring it over so I can see?

[The Lone Ranger]

Of course.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

That's it. Hold it close and kneel down here by the bed.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Yes, it is true. The same clear eyes. Forehead. Everything. You and my Danny boy. Put the mask on again. Lone Ranger. The west needs you.

[Narrator]

Before the noon, Lone Ranger replaced his mask. He bent low and touched his lips to the wrinkled cheek of the fine old lady who was so very, very tired. He heard her breathe softly.

[Mrs. Reed / Gran]

Ride on, Lone Ranger. Ride on forever with Danny at your side.

[Narrator]

And then he rose and saw that rest had erased the wrinkles. That a great peace had descended on a brave soul. Though there was no wind and a candle flame went out and in the darkness the Lone Ranger replaced his mask. He turned to the bed.

[The Lone Ranger]

May the rest you so richly deserve be yours forever.

[Dan]

Say, Grant.

[The Lone Ranger]

She's sleeping then. Sleeping? Oh, yes. Will you go in, Doctor? Of course. Dan. Come outside with me. Yes, sir. She wouldn't want you to cry. I'm not crying. Dan, stand here in the light of the window. I want to show you something.

[Dan]

Yes, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's a locket she gave me. Here's a picture of you as a baby with your mother and father.

[Dan]

That's my father.

[The Lone Ranger]

On this side of the locket, there's another picture.

[Dan]

He. He looks something like my dad.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, that's a picture of me.

[Dan]

Have you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your father was my older brother.

[Dan]

Then you. You must be my boy, Dan.

[The Lone Ranger]

The years I've spent looking for you, wondering if you were alive.

[Dan]

Lone Ranger. My uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's just the two of us, Dan, to carry on.

[Dan]

I never knew my dad. But you take his place now.

[The Lone Ranger]

You bet I will, son.

[Narrator]

Well, the Lone Ranger has found Dan. And new thrills and adventures lie ahead when the boy falls in step while the Lone Ranger rides. It.

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[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands Steve and Tom who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcastrt otrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739 this episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright for more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

Sam.

[Lady Luck]

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