Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast

Episode: At the Count of Three | The Lone Ranger (12-14-49)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: December 10, 2024

Introduction

In this riveting episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners back to the Wild West through the classic saga of The Lone Ranger. This digitally restored rendition captures the essence of the golden age of radio dramas, enriched with pristine soundscapes that breathe new life into the timeless tales of justice and adventure. The episode titled "At the Count of Three" delves into themes of honor, deception, and redemption, showcasing the Lone Ranger's unwavering commitment to upholding law and order in the untamed frontier.

Episode Summary

Setting the Stage

The story unfolds in the rugged town of Rimrock, where tensions simmer between ranchers and the local Nester community. Edna Corey, a resolute and spirited young woman, finds herself at the center of a brewing conflict. As she departs from her father's ranch to meet her horse at the hitch rack, she encounters Steve Bartlett, a ranch owner with questionable intentions.

Steve Bartlett: "What's your hurry, Ms. Edmund?"
[02:15]

Startled by Bartlett's aggressive demeanor, Edna's interaction spirals quickly as old rivalries resurface, setting the stage for potential violence.

Conflict Emerges

The confrontation escalates when Edna's partner, Bob Allison, steps in to mediate the tension between Edna and Steve Bartlett. Hank Corey, Edna's father, tries to maintain peace but is met with underlying hostility.

Hank Corey: "Trouble is, you don't realize Edna's a grown woman now."
[15:30]

Bob Allison's calm yet determined nature comes to the forefront as he addresses the brewing storm, indicating his reluctance to engage in needless violence.

Lone Ranger's Intervention

Unbeknownst to the townsfolk, the Lone Ranger, accompanied by his faithful horse Silver and partner Tonto, observes the unfolding drama. Disguised as an Indian to remain unnoticed, the Ranger strategically positions himself to prevent a potential gunfight.

As tensions reach their peak in the Rimrock Cafe, with Hank Corey threatening Bob Allison, the Lone Ranger takes decisive action. Just as Corey and Allison prepare for a showdown, the Ranger reveals his true identity, intervening just in time.

Lone Ranger: "You creased my hand and made me drop my gun, mistaking me for an ornery coyote."
[47:20]

The Ranger's swift move incapacitates Corey, preventing the imminent duel and diffusing the crowd's anxiety.

Resolution

Following the Ranger's intervention, the truth behind Steve Bartlett's manipulative schemes comes to light. It's revealed that Bartlett orchestrated the confrontation to eliminate Bob Allison and clear the valley of Nesters. The Lone Ranger confronts Bartlett and his men, ensuring they face justice for their deceitful actions.

In a poignant moment of reconciliation, Bob Allison acknowledges the Ranger's role in averting disaster and expresses his willingness to mend fences.

Bob Allison: "I reckon I well ought to appreciate the way you were willing to take a bullet rather than plug me."
[58:45]

Hank Corey, recognizing the futility of his vendetta, begins to reconsider his stance, hinting at a future where cooperation and peace prevail in Rimrock.

Notable Quotes

• Steve Bartlett: "What's your hurry, Ms. Edmund?"
  [02:15]

• Hank Corey: "Trouble is, you don't realize Edna's a grown woman now."
  [15:30]

• Lone Ranger: "You creased my hand and made me drop my gun, mistaking me for an ornery coyote."
  [47:20]

• Bob Allison: "I reckon I well ought to appreciate the way you were willing to take a bullet rather than plug me."
  [58:45]

Conclusion

"At the Count of Three" masterfully encapsulates the quintessential elements of Western storytelling—heroism, moral dilemmas, and the quest for justice. Through the Lone Ranger's courageous intervention, the episode underscores the importance of integrity and the power of one individual's resolve to uphold peace in a lawless land. Andrew Rhynes' expertly restored audio ensures that listeners are fully immersed in the rich auditory landscape of the Wild West, making this episode a standout installment in the Old Time Radio Westerns series.

For those who appreciate classic radio dramas or are new to the genre, this episode offers a captivating blend of suspense, character development, and timeless themes that remain relevant across generations.

This summary is based on the transcript provided and aims to encapsulate the core narrative and pivotal moments of the episode while adhering to the guidelines of excluding advertisements and non-content sections.