Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary
Episode: As the Arrow Points | The Lone Ranger (12-20-50)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: May 8, 2025

Plot Overview

In this thrilling episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, titled "As the Arrow Points," listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Arizona Territory, where the legendary Lone Ranger and his trusted companion, Tonto, embark on a mission to thwart a nefarious gang of outlaws known as the Zappolatis—or Vultures. The story intricately weaves themes of justice, betrayal, and survival in the untamed Wild West.

Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger: The masked vigilante dedicated to upholding law and order in the West.
• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal and resourceful Native American partner.
• Cap Keller: Initially presented as the captain of a wagon train, he is later revealed to be a treacherous outlaw scheming to sabotage the emigrants.
• Clay Rogers: A member of the wagon train who becomes suspicious of Cap Keller's intentions.
• Ellen Sayre: A young woman traveling with the wagon train who plays a pivotal role in uncovering Keller's deceit.
• Pedro: An associate of Cap Keller, involved in the gang's plans.
• Captain Heller: A United States Cavalry officer who assists the Lone Ranger in the episode's resolution.

Detailed Summary

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and Tonto traversing the desolate Dry Bone Flats, tracking the movements of the Zappolatis. As the Lone Ranger observes the landscape, he muses, “I know it would be like Cochise to go on the war path” ([03:30]). Their investigation leads them to a small basin known as Red Kettle, where they suspect a prearranged meeting of outlaws is taking place.

Tensions rise as the Lone Ranger and Tonto analyze the tracks, estimating, “There are 32” outlaws ([05:07]). They deduce that the gang is preparing for another raid, despite the absence of nearby towns or wagon trains. Deciding on a cautious approach, they plan to wait until nightfall to infiltrate the camp and gather intelligence.

As night falls, an emigrant wagon train led by Captain Keller sets up camp at Red Kettle. Cap Keller, portrayed as a trustworthy guide, converses with Pedro about an impending attack:

Cap Keller: “Senor, el Capitan, the pass is blocked. Good. Go back and tell the gang to be in the class at daybreak.” ([17:35])

However, skepticism arises when Ellen Sayre challenges Keller’s decisions, labeling him a coward after witnessing his hesitation to protect the wagon train ([08:20], [11:09]). The Lone Ranger intervenes during a confrontation, revealing Keller’s true allegiance and thwarting his attempt to sabotage the train.

A pivotal moment occurs when the Lone Ranger discovers a signal arrow at Sweetwater Springs, indicating a planned ambush by the outlaws:

Clay Rogers: “What’s the meaning of the rag and hair?” ([16:26])
Lone Ranger: “Then this coward must have seen the wagon train.” ([16:47])

As dawn breaks, the wagon train faces simultaneous threats from both Cap Keller's outlaws and a war party of Apaches. The Lone Ranger orchestrates a strategic defense, ultimately leading to a fierce battle where the outlaws are decimated by the combined forces of the Lone Ranger and the United States Cavalry.

In the episode’s climax, Captain Heller of the Cavalry confronts the Lone Ranger, acknowledging his heroism:

Captain Heller: “I did, sir. I identified him as the leader, a notorious criminal known by such aliases as Cap Keller and El Capitan.” ([20:58])
Lone Ranger: “I have picked them up, Scout.” ([18:19])

The resolution sees the surviving bandits captured, and peace restored to the region. Captain Heller commends the Lone Ranger and Tonto, while the emigrants express their gratitude:

Pedro: “Mister, let me thank you for saving the wagon train.” ([22:05])

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger: “I know it would be like Cochise to go on the war path.” ([03:30])
• Tonto: “We were honest men who want to protect the wagon train.” ([13:59])
• Ellen Sayre: “I saw it all. Clay. I'm sorry I said what I did to you.” ([14:03])
• Clay Rogers: “What’s the meaning of the rag and hair?” ([16:26])
• Captain Heller: “Did you find among the dead outlaws the body of a man dressed in a buckskin jacket and hand tool boots?” ([20:53])
• Lone Ranger: “The Apaches may attack you before you can be ambushed by the outlaws.” ([10:32])

Conclusion

"As the Arrow Points" effectively captures the essence of classic Western radio dramas, blending suspense, action, and moral dilemmas. The Lone Ranger's unwavering commitment to justice triumphs over deception and violence, reinforcing his role as the ultimate guardian of the Wild West. The episode's rich audio landscape, enhanced through meticulous digital restoration, immerses listeners in an authentic and captivating Old Time Radio experience.

This summary was crafted based on the provided transcript of the "As the Arrow Points" episode from the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast. For more engaging stories from the golden age of radio, tune into Old Time Radio Westerns with host Andrew Rhynes.