Billy Pt 1-3 | The Lone Ranger (10-30-39)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Billy Pt 1-3 | The Lone Ranger (10-30-39)"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
• Host/Author: Andrew Rhines
• Episode: Billy Pt 1-3 | The Lone Ranger (10-30-39)
• Release Date: February 23, 2025

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Introduction

In the "Billy Pt 1-3 | The Lone Ranger (10-30-39)" episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes delves into a riveting three-part saga featuring the iconic Lone Ranger. This digitally restored classic Western radio drama transcends the original recordings' limitations, offering enhanced audio quality that immerses listeners in the Wild West's rich atmospheric sounds.

Plot Overview

Act 1: The Framing of Billy

The story unfolds in the early days of the Western United States, where Sheriff Otis and U.S. Marshal Cleary are investigating a stagecoach robbery near Laramie. Mrs. Clemens, an elderly woman, reports her husband's murder, providing a description of the outlaw responsible. Unbeknownst to the authorities, this outlaw is none other than the Lone Ranger, whose true identity is masked.

Billy, a young boy raised by Blackie (the Lone Ranger in disguise), overhears conversations suggesting his friend's involvement in the crime. Misunderstandings and manipulations lead Sheriff Otis to believe Billy is guilty, setting the stage for a tragic confrontation.

Key Events:

• [07:04] Mrs. Clemens details her husband's murder to Sheriff Otis.
• [10:22] Billy receives his horse, Blackie, instilling hope and deepening his bond with him.
• [15:01] Billy learns from Blackie about the impending danger from Sheriff Otis and Marshal Cleary.
• [22:19] Billy confronts the reality of Blackie's true identity and his own predicament.
• [43:26] Billy grapples with the truth of his situation, realizing he's being used to cover up Bulow's (the corrupt banker) theft.

Act 2: Unraveling the Truth

As tensions escalate, Mrs. Clemens accuses Billy of theft, causing a town-wide uproar. Sheriff Otis's partiality towards Billy is tested when evidence surfaces proving Billy's innocence. The Lone Ranger intervenes to protect Billy, exposing the real culprit—Saul Bulow.

Key Events:

• [54:25] Attorney Saul Bulow testifies, revealing his true nature and involvement in the robbery.
• [57:07] Billy discovers the hidden cash, leading to a dramatic showdown.
• [66:31] Billy insists on staying loyal to his friends, refusing Bulow's manipulative offers.
• [84:07] The tension peaks in court as evidence clears Billy's name, yet the town's distrust remains.

Act 3: Redemption and Justice

In the final act, the masked Lone Ranger confronts Sheriff Otis, unveiling the corruption that led to Billy's wrongful accusation. With the hidden money finally discovered, Bulow's schemes are exposed, restoring Billy's reputation. The community begins to see the truth, and justice prevails as the Lone Ranger ensures that Billy is safe and honest.

Key Events:

• [56:17] Criminal activities and deceit are fully exposed, linking Bulow to the theft.
• [75:07] A pivotal moment where Billy realizes the depth of Bulow's manipulation.
• [84:07] Courtroom drama culminates in the revelation of the stolen money's location.
• [86:05] The aftermath sees the community's shift in perception, acknowledging Billy's innocence.

Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger (Blackie): The masked hero striving to maintain law and order in the Wild West while protecting his young companion, Billy.
• Billy: A 14-year-old orphan raised by Blackie, whose innocence becomes the focal point of a corrupt scheme.
• Sheriff Otis: Initially portrays a sense of justice but is swayed by corruption and malicious intent.
• Marshal Cleary: A steadfast lawman working alongside Sheriff Otis but remains unaware of the underlying deceit.
• Mrs. Clemens: An elderly woman whose accusations against Billy drive the plot's conflict.
• Saul Bulow: The antagonist, a banker whose greed and duplicity frame Billy for the robbery.

Notable Quotes

• [07:44] Billy: "He knows me already."
• [14:10] The Lone Ranger: "I've changed, young fella. I'm all through being a crook like I was, kid. From now on, for as long as I live, I'm going straight."
• [23:21] Dr. Ewing: "You've done it. He's sleeping. It's the crisis. He'll live."
• [43:26] Billy: "I gotta go through with it. If I don't, then the masked man will be hung, and it'll all be my fault."
• [66:23] The Lone Ranger: "You have my word."
• [84:31] Billy: "It's cash Blackie must have stole. It was found buried near the cabin, so I brought it here to you."

Themes and Insights

The episode explores themes of trust, redemption, and the battle between good and evil. Billy's journey highlights the vulnerability of youth caught in adult conflicts, while the Lone Ranger embodies the classic Western hero's moral compass. The narrative underscores the destructive nature of corruption and the importance of community support in overcoming false accusations.

Conclusion

"Billy Pt 1-3 | The Lone Ranger (10-30-39)" offers a compelling continuation of the Lone Ranger's adventures, blending suspense, emotional depth, and classic Western motifs. Through meticulous digital restoration, the podcast presents an engaging and immersive experience, preserving the timeless appeal of old-time radio dramas. Listeners are left anticipating the next installment, eager to follow Billy's path towards justice and belonging in the untamed frontier.

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End of Summary

Transcript

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[Narrator]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Hio Silver Hawaii. A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi Yo Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Advertiser]

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[Narrator]

In the early days of the Western United States, the boys and girls who grew up in the new territory heard many stories about the masked rider of the Plains. Courageous, daring, and resourceful, he championed the weak against the strong and brought law and order to a lawless frontier. It was he, more than any other man who made possible the winning of the West. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the pass come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again. Come on, Silver. We're heading for Laramie Tunnels. Waiting on the trail ahead, the Lone Ranger and his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, sat their mounts beside the trail to Laramie Their gaze was fixed upon the cloud of dust that marked a stagecoach approaching in the distance. And that should be a tender. They should have left last Thursday. It's a two day trip by stage from Yellow Ghost to Warshaw. Warshaw. They'd catch this Laramie stage. Another two day trip. This is Monday. If something happened to delay them. They're in it. Not right. Look carefully as it goes by. Mrs. Clemens is an elderly gray haired woman. You've seen the marshal? Me? Watch him. I won't be able to see as well as you. I want to stay behind this rock. I don't want the driver to think he's in for a holdup. Be careful. Here they come. Watch closely now. The door. Them on stage. You sure? Nisi Laman. Good. What do now? The stage will be in Laramie in 30 minutes. It won't be long after that before the law goes into action. We're riding to Blackie's place where we can keep an eye on things and see that they go as they should. This is one stunter that Blackie won't escape the law. Come on. Get him out.

[Sheriff Otis]

Scout.

[Narrator]

Come on. Half an hour later in Laramie. Here we are, ma'am. Tired? No, you ain't. You're a wonder, ma'am. I reckon I must be more than 20 years younger than you and.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Yeah, I'm all think of rest until I see the man who killed John hanged.

[Narrator]

Sure, sure. I savvy. We better be getting out. Hey, give me your hand. I'll help you down.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Thank you.

[Narrator]

There you are, ma'am. Now then, that must be the sheriff over there. Here. This way, ma'am. Sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

Howdy. Howdy, ma'am. I see you're wearing a United states marshal's badge, mister.

[Narrator]

Your sheriff, Otis?

[Sheriff Otis]

The same.

[Narrator]

This is Mrs. Clemens.

[Sheriff Otis]

A pleasure, ma'am.

[Mrs. Clemens]

How do you do?

[Narrator]

I'm Marshall Cleary from Yellow Gulch.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yeah, well. Well, I've heard of you. What brings you to Laramie, Sheriff?

[Mrs. Clemens]

Mine was Lord, ma'am.

[Narrator]

But maybe it'd be better if I was to explain. Sheriff, Mrs. Clements is from Yellow Gulch, just like me. Last Wednesday, her husband. Well, her husband was killed. And I never heard of a more cowardly killing. Sheriff, the polecat never gave Mr. Clements a chance. All we got, Sheriff, is a description and a tip from a masked man that the fellow we want lives near Laramie.

[Sheriff Otis]

So that's what brought you here. A masked man. Some crook gave you the tip, huh?

[Narrator]

I suppose he's an outlaw. Don't imagine he'd be Masked, if he warned. But anyhow, it's the only lead we got.

[Sheriff Otis]

Tell me what the killer looks like and I'll tell you if he's around. And if he is, we'll get the pole cat whether he's a killer or not.

[Narrator]

Right. Describe the fellow, Mrs. Clemens.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Well, I'd say he was just under six feet, but he was stubborn.

[Sheriff Otis]

Just a second, ma'am. Billy, come here.

[Billy]

Me, Sheriff?

[Narrator]

Uh huh.

[Sheriff Otis]

You listening, wasn't you?

[Billy]

Gee, I was just standing there. I wasn't doing nothing.

[Sheriff Otis]

Nothing but spreading your ears to the wind to pick up everything that was said. You savvy what happens to young fellows your age that don't mind their own business? Oh, gee, I don't get larupped. Now vamoose.

[Billy]

I'm going.

[Sheriff Otis]

Better keep going, Billy, till you get home. And don't stop to spread anything you heard. That's a boy for you.

[Narrator]

All us underfoot, nice looking lads.

[Sheriff Otis]

Sure Billy's all right. Feel kind of sorry for the young un with no maw or paw and only Blackie to look after him. Not that he don't think the sun just about rises and sets on Blackie. Well, this ain't 10 of the business.

[Narrator]

We'd like to get it over with just as soon as possible.

[Sheriff Otis]

Sure, ma'am. I want to hear the rest of what you got to say, but I reckon this ain't the place for it. A little too public.

[Narrator]

Your office is just across the street.

[Sheriff Otis]

And down the block. My arm, ma'am.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Sheriff Otis]

This way. We'll have this settled in a jiffy.

[Narrator]

To a boy of Billy's age, the little he had overheard of the conversation between Sheriff Otis and Marshall Cleary was exciting news. He rode as fast as he could toward his home, a small cabin about five miles south of Laramie. When he arrived there. Ho.

[Billy]

Comanche, ho.

[Narrator]

Oh, boy.

[Billy]

Blackie. Blackie. Blackie. Gosh. You know I heard that from Tom just now. Do you? I bet you'd never guess.

[Narrator]

Hold on, hold on there, young fell.

[Sheriff Otis]

But.

[Narrator]

But you know. Hold on. Whatever it is, you can tell it later. I've been waiting for you. Any notion why?

[Billy]

Huh?

[Narrator]

Ain't there been nothing you've been wanting kind of special lately that I've been?

[Billy]

Oh, gee, Blackie, you don't mean it.

[Narrator]

Sure do. Come on. Let you and me see if we can't find something waiting for you out in bay.

[Billy]

Oh, golly, it is Blackie. You bought him. It's the hoss I seen at Mr. Whipple. Oh, boy, he's Swell like him. Oh, gee, he's the swellest hoss I ever seen. Did you really buy him for me, Blackie? Did you?

[Narrator]

Huh? Uh huh. He's yours for keeps.

[Billy]

Just look at him. Hear that? He knows me already.

[Narrator]

Takes to you, don't he?

[Billy]

Oh, Blackie, I. I don't know what to say. You've been so swell to me and me.

[Narrator]

Shucks, Kid, forget it. I ain't hardly done nothing. Leastways nothing to all I'd like to.

[Billy]

Was this what you went to your claim for, Blackie? Was it to buy the hoss from Mr. Whipple?

[Narrator]

Claim? Oh, yeah, yeah, that's what I had in mind.

[Billy]

You ever gonna take me with you when you go? Won't you? Someday, Blackie.

[Narrator]

We'll talk it over some other time. Didn't you start to tell me about something happening in town?

[Billy]

Oh, gosh, yes. I was near forgetting, Blackie. The sheriff's gonna jail a killer.

[Narrator]

Yeah. Come on, we better get back inside and start rustling up some grub, huh?

[Billy]

Uh huh.

[Narrator]

Now what's this about the sheriff?

[Billy]

Well, he was talking to a US Marshal and some old lady. I was right there and heard him.

[Narrator]

Well, that sounds interesting. U.S. marshal, huh?

[Billy]

Sure. From Yellow Gulch.

[Narrator]

From Yellow Kid. Did you say Yellow Gulch?

[Billy]

Sure, Blackie.

[Narrator]

What? Who was it he was after? Did you hear him Say, did you?

[Billy]

Oh, what's the matter, Blackie Crick, did.

[Narrator]

You hear them say or didn't you?

[Billy]

Well, no, they didn't mention no names.

[Narrator]

What else did they say? What was the after this fellow first. You hear that?

[Billy]

Gee, Blackie, you're hurting my arms.

[Narrator]

Sorry, Kid. I guess I didn't notice I had a hold of you. Now go on, tell me about it. I kind of interested.

[Billy]

Well, the marshal was telling the sheriff that back in Yellow Gulch there was this old lady's husband and some skunk held him up and then afterwards shot him in the back and. You ain't listening, Blackie. I thought you said you was interested.

[Narrator]

Here, Dad, I just thought of something I meant to do and didn't. But it's got to be tender to you. You go ahead and fix the grub. I'll be back later.

[Billy]

But Blackie, wait. Blackie.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Get up. Get up on you. Get up.

[Billy]

Gee, what got into him?

[Narrator]

When Blackie left his young friend, his destination was a remote clearing in a wood some distance from the cabin. There, leaving his mount saddle, he took refuge in a crudely built lean to. All day he remained in hiding. Then just as dusk was beginning to fall a horse. Whoever you are, rein up your cupboards. It's me, Blackie. It's Billy. Billy who? Who?

[Billy]

Who? Who there, Kid?

[Narrator]

What made you look for me here?

[Billy]

Blackie. Blackie, it was you I heard the marshal talking about.

[Narrator]

Did they come to the cabin?

[Billy]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Kidding. I don't know what to say.

[Billy]

Let's not talk about it, Blackie. You gotta get going. They're on your trail.

[Narrator]

They are?

[Billy]

I. I watched them. The marshal can read sign real good. They'll be coming along most anytime. You better leave.

[Narrator]

Yeah, that's so, I reckon. A bitter look, Kid. I. I guess I've smashed things, ain't I?

[Billy]

There wasn't no claim.

[Narrator]

Nope, there wasn't.

[Billy]

It was all lies. You wasn't buying me things with gold. You'd pay. It was with. With cash you'd stole. Oh, why'd you do it, Blackie? Why'd you have to? Everything was so swelled. I was so happy, and now it.

[Narrator]

Listen, Billy. Just listen for a second, then I'll clear out.

[Billy]

I'm listening, Kid.

[Narrator]

First of all, I want you to know I don't mean to whitewash myself. I'm pretty bad. I always have been. I was a crook when I first found you.

[Billy]

I always thought you was the swellest.

[Narrator]

Fellow there ever was. And all this time I felt like a dog for fooling you the way I have. But you see, Young, when I kind of felt toward you like. Well, I reckon like a man at peel toward his own son. No matter how bad he was, he wouldn't want his boy to know it. Nor he wouldn't want to give up his boy neither. Well, that's the way I've been. I guess I ought to be shut.

[Billy]

But won't you go, Blackie, please? I don't want him to catch you.

[Narrator]

Sure, I'll go. But before I go to you, do you think maybe you could say you ain't mad at me? Well, I can't blame you, Nan. Only.

[Billy]

Aw, gee, Blackie, I couldn't be mad at you in a million years.

[Narrator]

Oh, kidding.

[Billy]

But you gotta go. You just gotta.

[Narrator]

Here, boy.

[Billy]

Blackie, you take my horse. He's the one you brought me, and he'll give you a better chance. I'll go on, please. Well, and Blackie, I'm awful cold. If you just let me wear your hat and your coat.

[Dr. Ewing]

Cold?

[Narrator]

Why? Didn't think I was.

[Billy]

I'm shivering.

[Narrator]

Why, he can't take them. I just didn't think it was that cold.

[Billy]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

Well, Billy, I reckon this is Goodbye. All right.

[Billy]

Goodbye, Blackie.

[Narrator]

And Kid.

[Billy]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

You'll be hearing a lot of things about me. Bad things. Most of them true. But if they ever tried to tell you I didn't mean to be square by you, well, they'll be lying. And don't you let them convince you different. Get up. Get up there. Get up. Marshall Cleary, Sheriff Otis and the deputy approached the woods. Suddenly, there he is.

[Sheriff Otis]

That's him. That's the totem hat he always wears. And that's his horse trying to get away. Shoot him down. I got him. I knocked him from his saddle.

[Narrator]

Keep your guns handy in case he's tricking us. Get up. Get up there. Come on, get up.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get up. Get up there. Get up there. We got your Blackie. Don't cry nothing. Pull up. Get him covered. What?

[Narrator]

What?

[Sheriff Otis]

That sheriff. It ate him. We shot the wrong fella. It's Billy. And he's hurt plenty bad.

[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.

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[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. When the three lawmen discovered it was Billy they had shot, the deputy mounted his horse. The sheriff and the marshal carefully lifted the boy into his arms. The deputy was ordered to get him to a doctor as quickly as possible. When he had disappeared in the direction of town. Come on, Silver.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hear that?

[Narrator]

I oughta heard something. Hurry, old boy. Hurry.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hold it. Who is it? Can you make them out, Marshal?

[Narrator]

There's more than one. Wait till they get clear of the trees.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, I'll.

[Narrator]

You got one feller masked.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yeah, but that's Blackie with him.

[Billy]

Hey there.

[Narrator]

There's your post near, Marshal. Pull up there.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get your hands up, stranger. You and the Injun both.

[Narrator]

No, you don't. Sheriff, we caught your man, after he'd gotten away from you. Take him. But you've got nothing on Tono and me, and you know it. And you don't hold us without a fight.

[Sheriff Otis]

Look here, mister, no masked feller can tell me.

[Narrator]

Just a second, Chev. Stranger. Well, it was a masked man that gave me the tip to come here. I was just wondering if maybe you weren't him. It doesn't matter whether I am or not. Turning Blackie over to you, that's all that concerns you.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, well, Blackie talking won't get you free. The marshals told me all about you. You'll hang sky high.

[Narrator]

It had to happen someday. Ain't hollering.

[Sheriff Otis]

Nah. I oughta knowed anybody low enough to let a kid like Billy get shot on account of him.

[Narrator]

What's that about Billy Blessed? You answer me. You said Billy been shot. If you skunks hurt that cat, it couldn't be helped. There's no reason, man. How was we to know it was him in your coat and hat and on that horse? The horse? My coat and hat? Why, he must have been scheming it right then.

[Sheriff Otis]

He was. You ain't worth the powder to blow you to smithereens, Blackie. But that kid seemed to think for some fool reason you was all right. Leastwise, he aimed for you to have a chance. He was willing to give his life to see that you did.

[Narrator]

Sheriff, how bad's Billy hurt?

[Sheriff Otis]

It's pretty bad, but he's on his way to a doctor now.

[Narrator]

Then take me to him. Let me see him. Sheriff, I'll do anything you ask, but just let me find out how the kid's gonna do.

[Billy]

I don't know.

[Narrator]

I'm sorry. It's out of the question. You're going back to Yellow Gulch with me. But dog. Got it, Marshall. No use hogging we catch a stage going through the night. Now get moving.

[Sheriff Otis]

But I ride between us. Stranger.

[Narrator]

We're thanking you for your help. Forget it. Get up there. Where? We go to Laramie. From what the sheriff said, Billy's in danger of his life. I want to learn if he live.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get him out, Scowl.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver. Come on. In laramie. Kindly old Dr. Ewing had taken young Billy into his own home. That worked upon the youngster with all his skill. Billy's wounds were not serious. And yet when the sheriff called the next day to ask how the boy was doing.

[Dr. Ewing]

Hello there, Billy. I've got somewhere to see you.

[Sheriff Otis]

Howdy, young un.

[Billy]

Hello, Sheriff.

[Dr. Ewing]

He like talking for just a short while, son.

[Billy]

Oh, I Don't know.

[Sheriff Otis]

Here now, young uncle. Where's all your pep? Golly. I never looked for the time when you wouldn't be full of spunk and rare to go.

[Billy]

Sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

Huh?

[Billy]

Blackie. What's gonna happen to Blackie?

[Sheriff Otis]

Why, he. That is Billy.

[Dr. Ewing]

You shouldn't exist.

[Billy]

I gotta know, Sheriff. What have they done with him? Why ain't he been allowed to come and see me?

[Sheriff Otis]

Billy, he's on his way to Yellow Goats with the marshal. He wanted to see you in the worst way. But it just couldn't be.

[Billy]

They're going to hang him. I don't think they are going to. They are. I know they are.

[Sheriff Otis]

But I tell you.

[Billy]

Oh, they can't do that to Blackie. They can't, Sheriff. You got to keep.

[Dr. Ewing]

The Sheriff's your friend. If he could do anything to help you, he would. Don't carry on so. Try to sleep, won't you, son?

[Billy]

I can't sleep, Doc. I just can't.

[Dr. Ewing]

Don't you realize that if you don't, you won't get well?

[Billy]

I don't want to get well. I don't care what happens to me. Blackie, they're gonna hang him.

[Dr. Ewing]

I have to go out, Billy. I won't be gone for long. And I want you to promise me something before I go.

[Billy]

Promise you something?

[Dr. Ewing]

Whether you think you can sleep or not, really try to. It's the only thing that's going to help you. If you won't try it for yourself, then try it for my sake. What do you expect folks will think of me if I lose a patient as husky as you are?

[Billy]

I'll try, Doc.

[Dr. Ewing]

There, that's better. Come on, Sheriff. Remember now, that's a promise.

[Sheriff Otis]

You see, it's the dog on the sting.

[Dr. Ewing]

He's not badly wounded, Sheriff. He is healthier than even you are. But he won't rest. He won't stop worrying about Blackie. And medicine can save a life when the patient refuses to live.

[Narrator]

Twelve hours later, on the stage bound for Washo, Mrs. Clemens, Marshall, Cleary and Blackie were startled by the sound of firing.

[Sheriff Otis]

Driver.

[Narrator]

Hi, driver. What's the trouble? It's a hold up. There's a masked man and a redskin. Get up. Get up.

[Sheriff Otis]

What's that?

[Narrator]

I know this man. Pull up.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hear me? Pull up if he wants.

[Narrator]

What is this? Those are the men who helped us catch Blackie here. Hello there. What is it, stranger? The life of the boy who was wounded depends on Blackie returning to Laramie. There's no time to waste. You've got to turn back at once. Turn back? Are you local? I said there's no time to waste. Then you go to places.

[Sheriff Otis]

I'll.

[Narrator]

I won't argue. One move and I shoot. Blackie, climb out here. You bet I will, mister. Get up behind me. You'll be tailed for this stranger. You'll get yours, and that's a promise. Marshall, I don't want to oppose the law, but in a case like this, I have no choice. Ready, Blackie?

[Dr. Ewing]

Ready.

[Narrator]

Come on. Come on. Bless him. Turn around, driver. Back to our army. This is the law speaking, and you do what I say. I think you hit him, Marshall. I hope I did. Get up. Get up. Get up. The marshal's bullets had taken effect. Both the masked man and Blackie had been hit. And once beyond range, the Lone Ranger and Tato reined in their mounts. How.

[Sheriff Otis]

How bad you hurt?

[Narrator]

Don't mind me, Kimasabe. Mine's a flesh wound. He caught me in the shoulder. Have a look at Blackie. I'm scared. I'm done for, mister. Oh, and you got heap bad wound. Then we can't go on. We will. I'll make it somehow. I've got to before I cash in my chips. I can do one decent thing to make up for all the bad I've done. That's to give Billy reason for living. It's a hard trip to Laramie, but just the same. If it was twice as hard and twice as far, I'd still last it out. Now, let's not talk. Let's travel.

[Sheriff Otis]

Right. Kill him. Get him over.

[Narrator]

Early the next morning, Dr. Ewing hurried toward the front door of his home. Yes.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hopefully.

[Narrator]

You, Blackie. How was the boy?

[Billy]

What?

[Dr. Ewing]

Right.

[Narrator]

If you come down, Doctor, look at Blackie. He's almost finished. Yet he came back here because he thought Billy needed him. Don't delay us because of my mask, Blackie.

[Dr. Ewing]

Good heavens, man. You rode here with a wound like that?

[Narrator]

Don't mind me, doc. I was the Kid.

[Dr. Ewing]

But you're in bad luck.

[Narrator]

Don't waste time. I can't hold out much longer.

[Dr. Ewing]

It's a miracle you've lasted as long as you have, Blackie. The boy's delirious. I haven't been able to get him to sleep. But he certainly won't do him any good to see you like this, Dirk.

[Narrator]

You. You just leave that to me. Go in there, huh?

[Dr. Ewing]

Blackie, I don't know what to say. A minute ago, I hated you, but now. Well, come on.

[Narrator]

You too, stranger. Of course. Stay here. Tada. The marshal and the sheriff come keep them out, huh? How to do it?

[Billy]

Sheriff. Sheriff. Good.

[Narrator]

Let me. Let me talk to him alone.

[Billy]

Odd. Black.

[Narrator]

Just stay here.

[Dr. Ewing]

Yes.

[Billy]

Come on. Get me, Blackie.

[Narrator]

Kid.

[Billy]

You can't hang you, Blackie.

[Narrator]

It's me, Kid. It's Blackie.

[Billy]

I don't care.

[Narrator]

Can't you hear me, Kid? It's me, Blackie. I'll come back to you, Blackie. Shucks. You think there was anything in the world could keep me from you? When you was aliens, did you really think I wouldn't come back to you?

[Billy]

Is it really you, Blackie? Is it?

[Narrator]

Sure is.

[Billy]

But what they said you was gonna hang. They said that?

[Narrator]

Someone said that about me? Well, of all the fool things. My kid. They won't hang me. I give you my word. Cross my heart. I just been telling you things. It ain't so.

[Billy]

Honest, Blackie. Honest.

[Narrator]

Honest. I'll tell you something, El.

[Billy]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

I've changed, young fella. I'm all through being a crook like I was, kid. From now on, for as long as I. I'm going straight.

[Billy]

Gee. Gee, Blackie, that. Swell.

[Narrator]

You're looking tired.

[Billy]

I've been awful tired. But thinking of you and wondering what was gonna happen.

[Narrator]

Ain't no need to wonder now. That's all over with now. What you're gonna do is get some rest so you and me can be together again. Rest, kid. Sleep. Sleep. All the sleep you can get.

[Billy]

Sure, Blackie. Sure.

[Narrator]

Sleep.

[Billy]

Sure.

[Sheriff Otis]

Blackie.

[Dr. Ewing]

You've done it. He's sleeping. It's the crisis. He'll live.

[Narrator]

Blackie, Don't. Don't wake him up, stranger.

[Dr. Ewing]

Yes.

[Narrator]

Don't let him know about me too soon, will you? No, Blackie. And after I'm gone, if you could kind of look after him a bit. There's nobody he can turn to. And you've been right kind. You have my word. I will. Thank you. Thanks. I. Yes, Blackie.

[Dr. Ewing]

It's no use, stranger. He can't answer you. He'll never answer anyone again.

[Narrator]

Come.

[Dr. Ewing]

Sheriff. Your prisoner's inside.

[Sheriff Otis]

This blasted engine wouldn't let us. By thunder. This time Blackie won't get away.

[Narrator]

Not if I have to handcuff him.

[Dr. Ewing]

You're right.

[Sheriff Otis]

Where is he?

[Dr. Ewing]

You're right, Sheriff. He won't get away from you. But I'll tell you something else. Blackie will never hang.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver. We're needed in Laramie. Oh, Silver. How are.

[Billy]

You?

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[Narrator]

Saul Bulow, Laramie's banker and Sheriff Otis call at the home of Dr. Ewing. Come in.

[Dr. Ewing]

Come in, gentlemen.

[Sheriff Otis]

We got here a little early, Doc, but Mr. Bulow didn't have much time to spare from the bank.

[Dr. Ewing]

That's quite all right. Sit down, gentlemen. Sit down. Billy's in his room. I'll call him.

[Sheriff Otis]

Doctor.

[Dr. Ewing]

Yes.

[Sheriff Otis]

You. You've told the boy?

[Dr. Ewing]

No, I haven't, Mr. Bulow. I've been saving it for a surprise. I wanted you to see the boy's face when he learned about it. Yes. And before we tell him, I. I want to tell you something.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yes?

[Dr. Ewing]

I want you to know that Sheriff Otis and I think you're doing a fine and unselfish thing. Something you'll never regret. Naturally, I've seen a lot of the boy while he's been my patient. I believe I've come to understand him as well as anyone could. And I can say this. If I had ever married. Billy's exactly the kind of a son I would have wanted for myself.

[Sheriff Otis]

I'm glad to hear you say it. I was a little afraid, that is. Well, after all, Blackie sure don't give that a thought. From the time Blackie found Billy an orphan 10 or 11 years ago and adopted him, sort of up till the other day when he died. Blackie raised the boy just as straight as you or I would. It wasn't till Blackie was arrested that Billy even suspicioned he was a crooked.

[Dr. Ewing]

And that's something to remember, Mr. Buell. Billy's young and like all boys, he's something of a hero worshiper. In his case, his heroes of Blackie and the masked man. He understands now that Blackie was an outlaw. But you'll never get him to think badly of him. And you never win his affection if you try. It would be better to avoid the subject altogether.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Sheriff Otis]

I'll remember that. Now, if you don't mind of course, of course.

[Dr. Ewing]

Billy.

[Billy]

What? Oh, hello, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

Howdy, son.

[Dr. Ewing]

Come here. Billy. You know Mr. Bulow, don't you?

[Billy]

Uh huh.

[Sheriff Otis]

How do you do? Hello.

[Dr. Ewing]

Wondering what this all about, eh? Well, we have a surprise for you.

[Sheriff Otis]

One you like.

[Billy]

Have you?

[Dr. Ewing]

How would you like to grow up to be a banker?

[Billy]

A banker?

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Sheriff Otis]

One of them fellows like Mr. Bulow here with cash to burn.

[Dr. Ewing]

Oh gosh, I. Billy, Mr. Bulow's been kind enough to offer you a home. What's more, he's going to take you into the bank with him, teach you the business. Now how does that strike you?

[Billy]

Gee, I don't know.

[Sheriff Otis]

Kind of takes your breath away, don't it?

[Billy]

But I always wanted to work on a ranch.

[Narrator]

What?

[Dr. Ewing]

Work on a ranch?

[Sheriff Otis]

I think you'll find working in a bank more profitable than the cowboys lap, my boy. There's plenty of youngsters your age who'd give their right eyes for the chance you're getting.

[Billy]

Oh, I guess so.

[Sheriff Otis]

But you want to come with me, don't you, Billy?

[Billy]

I reckon so.

[Dr. Ewing]

Of course you do. Now I've had your things brought in from the cabin. They're packed and ready. Mr. Bulow's in a hurry and hasn't much time to spare. So wash your face, get into a clean shirt and get back here as fast as you can.

[Billy]

All right.

[Dr. Ewing]

Wait. Haven't you anything to say to Mr. Bulow?

[Billy]

Say?

[Dr. Ewing]

Mm.

[Billy]

Oh gosh, sure. Thanks, Mr. Bulow. Thanks a heap.

[Sheriff Otis]

That's all right, Billy. I think I know exactly how you feel. But give me a chance, my boy. I have an idea that you and I will be great friends.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, true to the promise they had made. Blackie, when the outlaw lay dying, were camped in the vicinity of Laramie and planned to remain there until Billy's future was assured. It was late in the afternoon on the following day they were brought to attention. The sound of a rapidly approaching horse. Their horse. Heading for our camp. Better get back out of sight. No, wait. I think that's Billy. Not him. Hello there.

[Billy]

Hi hoo boy.

[Narrator]

Hoo hoo there. We didn't expect you, Billy.

[Billy]

And I didn't think I was ever going to get away to see you. Mr. Bulow's going to be awful mad when he finds I sneaked away from the bank. Hello, Tado.

[Narrator]

Oh, the bank?

[Billy]

Uh huh. I work there now.

[Narrator]

Well, that's news. I'm glad to hear it.

[Billy]

Oh, I ain't gonna work there long.

[Narrator]

No? Why not?

[Billy]

Gosh. Would you like to Work in a bank?

[Narrator]

I don't know. I've never tried it. It sounds to me like a good thing for you. How'd it happen?

[Billy]

Do you know Mr. Bula?

[Narrator]

I've heard of him.

[Billy]

Well, he's gonna adopt me.

[Narrator]

What?

[Billy]

Honest? Cross my heart. I'm living in his house and he's getting the papers all fixed. But I wish he wasn't.

[Narrator]

What seems to be the trouble?

[Billy]

Oh, I don't know.

[Narrator]

Don't you like Mr. Bulow?

[Billy]

Oh, he's all right, I guess.

[Narrator]

There must be something.

[Billy]

Oh, it's.

[Narrator]

What is it?

[Billy]

Well, gee, I never asked him to adopt me. And I never asked him to let me work in the bank neither. I don't see why they couldn't have asked me what I wanted to do.

[Narrator]

What does Dr. Ewing say about this? Well, he approves. Huh?

[Billy]

Huh?

[Narrator]

And the sheriff?

[Billy]

Oh, shucks. He'd say anything was all right if Doc Ewing said so.

[Narrator]

I see. Sheriff Otis, Dr. Ewing and Mr. Bulow all think this is the best thing for you. But you disagree. Is that it? Oh, I suppose The Sheriff and Dr. Ewing are your friends, Billy. You should know they'd never plan anything that wasn't for your own good.

[Billy]

They've been swell.

[Narrator]

Well, then.

[Billy]

But, gosh, I was hoping.

[Narrator]

Yes?

[Billy]

You just laugh at me, don't you.

[Narrator]

Think I'm your friend?

[Billy]

Sure.

[Narrator]

And friends don't laugh at each other's problems, do they?

[Billy]

No.

[Narrator]

Then out with it.

[Billy]

Well, if you want to know, I was hoping maybe you and Tano would take me with you. I'm old enough to handle a gun.

[Narrator]

So that's it.

[Billy]

I knew you'd just laugh.

[Narrator]

I'm not laughing. Tano and I are both proud to know you trust us that much, Billy. I'm afraid you have a mistaken idea.

[Billy]

Huh?

[Narrator]

Our lives aren't fun. They're not easy either. If the time and circumstances have been different perhaps neither one of us would be where he is. And certainly neither Tata nor I would ask anyone to share our dangers.

[Billy]

I'm not afraid.

[Narrator]

Of course you're not. But you know what it would mean if you insisted on this.

[Billy]

No.

[Narrator]

It would mean that Tata and I had failed.

[Billy]

Well, I don't savvy.

[Narrator]

The west is a great country, Billy. Someday it's going to be even greater. Someday the law is going to be respected and honest people will be able to live and work in peace. That's what Tato and I are trying to help bring about. But in order to do that, we need help from young fellows like you. Me Right. Nothing Tato and I could do in a hundred years would bring the law to the west unless there were honest citizens on our side. You have a chance to become someone with influence and power. You could show others that it pays to abide by the law. But if you threw away that chance because of us, then it would prove that we were going about this in the wrong way and we were defeating our own purpose. You understand that?

[Billy]

Gosh, I never thought of it just like that.

[Narrator]

It's time you did. If you left the bank without permission, it's time you got back.

[Billy]

You ain't leaving me, are you?

[Narrator]

We'll be around for a while yet and.

[Billy]

And you really think I ought to stay with Mr. Bulow and do like he says?

[Narrator]

I think so. At least for the present. Can't do any harm. Well, now, jump back in that saddle. When you're home, tell Mr. Bueller you're sorry you left your work and it won't happen again.

[Billy]

I can come and see you again, though, can't I?

[Narrator]

You'd better not. We'll look you up. However, if we have to leave the district, that's a promise. And Billy.

[Billy]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

Don't tell anyone where we're camped. You haven't, have you?

[Billy]

Oh, gosh, I'd never do that.

[Narrator]

Adios, then.

[Billy]

Goodbye. Goodbye.

[Narrator]

Toto.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get up.

[Billy]

Get up there.

[Narrator]

Him heap good boy. And I don't like what he told me. Oh, what? That I couldn't say anything to him. Because I may be wrong. However, I'd rather had been almost anyone but Bulow that adopted the boy. What matter? He has a good reputation around here, Kimasabe. But I've heard ugly rumors concerning the fellow other places. Oh, so we stay here. Blackie trusted us to look out for the boy, Tato, and we're keeping that trust at the bank. Saul Bulow merely smiled when he was told that Billy was missing from his work. But when he reached the privacy of his home, his face hardened. And when he recognized the boy's voice outside, he lost control of his temper completely.

[Sheriff Otis]

We'll settle this once and for all. Might as well have it out now as later. So there you are.

[Billy]

Come on, Mr. Bulow.

[Narrator]

Come here.

[Billy]

Gee, I'm sorry, Mr. Bulow. Honest I am. I'm. Oh. Oh, please, no, please, I never.

[Sheriff Otis]

You'll run away from your work, will you? Who told you you could? Who gave you permission to leave the bank without my knowledge?

[Billy]

Nobody, Mr. Bulo. But I only.

[Sheriff Otis]

Where did you go?

[Billy]

Just for a ride.

[Sheriff Otis]

You were raised by a thief, and you've got thieving blood in your veins. You should be in jail, not in a decent home.

[Billy]

Mr. Bulow, I'm awful sorry, but it won't happen again.

[Narrator]

I promise.

[Sheriff Otis]

It won't. All right. You're quite right.

[Billy]

I'll do anything to make up for it. You've been awful good to me. And honest. I appreciate. Was real good of you to adopt a fella like me.

[Sheriff Otis]

Adopt you? Who said I had?

[Billy]

Well, I know you ain't yet, but.

[Sheriff Otis]

And never will.

[Billy]

Aw, gee. Can't you give me another chance, Just one more?

[Sheriff Otis]

Who said I ever intended to adopt you?

[Billy]

Well, what do you mean, Mr. Bulow?

[Sheriff Otis]

You'll find out very soon.

[Billy]

Huh?

[Sheriff Otis]

If I'm not mistaken, you ran away to see that masked friend of yours.

[Billy]

I never no further lie.

[Sheriff Otis]

I guessed as much when I learned you were gone. Look in your face proves it. Think quite a bit of him, don't you?

[Billy]

I think he's the swellest fella there ever was.

[Sheriff Otis]

That's what you say. But I know you're kind. If he were in trouble, you'd run to save your weather's hat first and think of him second.

[Billy]

I would not. Besides, he ain't in no trouble.

[Sheriff Otis]

You're he, isn't he?

[Billy]

He ain't. I know he ain't.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yeah. Not quite so sure of it as.

[Narrator]

You were at first.

[Billy]

What are you saying? Things that ain't so.

[Sheriff Otis]

Misunderstanding. I believe I'd better make certain things clear.

[Billy]

Huh?

[Sheriff Otis]

I think I made it plain I never intended to adopt you. I had, however, a reason for bringing you here. A reason for putting you into the bank.

[Billy]

What reason?

[Sheriff Otis]

Not so fast. I'll explain myself very shortly. But before I do, I want you to understand one thing. And understand it so well, you can never say afterwards that you didn't have your warning.

[Billy]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Otis]

If a word of what I said you hear is ever repeated to anyone, to anyone, mind you, your masked friend will hang sky high.

[Billy]

That ain't so.

[Sheriff Otis]

No. Just step over here. I'll show you the proof.

[Narrator]

One night a week later, Billy left Saul Bulow's home and made his way to a wooden bench built around the trunk of a great oak tree. As he slumped to the seat, a ray of moonlight showed his face streaked with tears.

[Billy]

I gotta go through with it. If I don't, then the masked man will be hung, and it'll all be my fault. I gotta go through with it. I just got to it. Billy, it's you.

[Narrator]

Sit down. Go away.

[Billy]

Don't stay here.

[Narrator]

You and I are going to have a talk.

[Billy]

Well, what about?

[Narrator]

I don't know. I've been watching you. You weren't happy.

[Billy]

I. I told you I never wanted to work in a bank.

[Narrator]

It's more than that. There's something else bothering you. Look at you now. You've been crying.

[Billy]

I ain't neither.

[Narrator]

Tell me about it, friend.

[Billy]

Oh, go away.

[Narrator]

You don't mean that.

[Billy]

I do. I do too.

[Narrator]

Mina. No. You're frightened at something. You're frightened now. You're so frightened you don't want to talk, even to me.

[Billy]

Just leave me be.

[Narrator]

Not until you've told me what this is about.

[Billy]

No.

[Narrator]

Then there is something.

[Billy]

I won't talk. I won't.

[Narrator]

You will.

[Sheriff Otis]

Let go.

[Billy]

Let me go, please. Can't you see I don't want to talk? Can't you do like I ask you?

[Narrator]

No, I don't. Follow me.

[Billy]

Don't come after me.

[Narrator]

You can't make me talk.

[Mrs. Clemens]

No matter what you do.

[Billy]

You just stay where you are.

[Narrator]

Me?

[Sheriff Otis]

Get him.

[Narrator]

No. Tada. The boy's half frightened out of his wits. Try and make him talk now would only frighten him more. Must be a better way to get to the bottom of this. It's up to us to find it. 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.

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[Dr. Ewing]

Now.

[Narrator]

To continue our story. For years, it had been Sol Bulow's custom to arrive at his bank a few minutes after it had been opened by his employees. The morning of the next day was no exception. But this time, as he opened the door. Mr. Pule.

[Sheriff Otis]

Good morning, man. Why haven't you stripped out?

[Narrator]

Oh, Mr. Bulow, something terrible's happened.

[Sheriff Otis]

What's that whiz? What's everyone doing at the Save we.

[Narrator]

Was just going to send for you, sir. But I. I said seeing his house.

[Sheriff Otis]

Can't you answer a plain question? What is all this?

[Narrator]

We've been robbed, Mr. Pupil. Oh, it's terrible, sir.

[Sheriff Otis]

Just look inside here. Good.

[Narrator]

Heavy.

[Sheriff Otis]

Stand aside. Empty. Empty.

[Narrator]

They're all empty, sir.

[Sheriff Otis]

Cleaned out. Who? Haven't opened the bank this morning? Has the sheriff been informed? Where's Billy? What? I opened the bank this morning, Mr. Bulow. That is, I think I was the first one here, don't you know? Well, I thought I seen Master Billy leaving the bank just ahead of me. But of course, I must have been mistaken. What's this? You saw Billy leaving this bank? I don't like to say it. I stand there stuttering like an idiot. Did you or did you not see him go out of here? I. Yes, sir, I did. Then why couldn't you have said so in the first place? But I didn't want to harm him, sir. Shut up, you blathering fool. Who's checked on what's been stolen? Anybody?

[Narrator]

I tried to, sir. Well, of course, you know, it ain't easy to tell right off.

[Sheriff Otis]

What are you trying to tell me? My business or trying to explain? Excuse your incompetence. How much is missing?

[Narrator]

It must be close to 50,000.

[Sheriff Otis]

50,000? And the lot of you stand here doing nothing. You get the sheriff. Yes, Mr. Bulow. Right away, Mr. Bulo. And you go down to my house. If Billy's there, which I don't expect, tell him to get here at what? Yes, sir. Now wait. Yes, Mr. Bulow. If he isn't at the house, scour the town for him. If he isn't in town, try to find someone who saw him leave. If you can't do that, consider yourself fired. Now get on with it.

[Narrator]

Yes, sir.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yes, sir. The rest of you, close your mouths and try to stay out of my way. $50,000 stolen from under your noses. If I didn't know how stupid you are, by thunder, I'd say you had help.

[Narrator]

Billy, however, was not found. And when it was reported that he had been seen racing swiftly from town with a satchel under one arm, a posse was hastily gathered. In the meantime, the Lone Ranger, unaware of the bank robbery, but urged to haste by another discovery, drove his great white stallion toward his secret camp. Silver thundered across country with the speed of light, leaping arroyos, crashing through saddle high underbrush, until at last the masked man pulled him to a sliding stop.

[Sheriff Otis]

Oh.

[Narrator]

Oh, so good. Oh, fella. Oh, boy, fella, I've been through Bulow's home. Nothing. I found what frightened Billy and me got news too. News? A fella robbed bank. What's this? And Law blame boy. Posse hunt of him. Bulo's bank was robbed. And they think Billy did it. If he did, then I know the reason.

[Sheriff Otis]

What?

[Narrator]

That I haven't time to explain. Silver and I have a long ride ahead of us. I have work for you. Try to find Billy before the posse does him. Head for Swamp. Then ride there. Find him. If you have to ride through the center of it, count to do it here.

[Sheriff Otis]

Scout.

[Narrator]

Tell Billy to surrender. Tell him not to be afraid. Then I'll get him out of this. Tell him he may have to face trial before I can get back. But trial or no trial, he has nothing to fear me. Tell him then on your way. And see that Billy comes to no harm.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get him up, Scout. Get him up.

[Narrator]

Come on, boy. Earl Silver.

[Sheriff Otis]

Away.

[Narrator]

Billy, who had been familiar with every foot of the swamp since early childhood, spurred his laboring mount over the only trail that offered solid footing. His quirt rose and fell. And he pleaded with his horse.

[Billy]

Get up, boy.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get up.

[Billy]

If we can get through here, fella, maybe we'll have a chance.

[Narrator]

Get up there.

[Billy]

Get up to the left, boy. We got a circle and a log there. And straight ahead again. Come on. Come on. Take much further.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get up.

[Narrator]

Get up there.

[Billy]

Come on. Tunnel.

[Narrator]

Stay back. Let me be.

[Billy]

Get up, boy.

[Narrator]

Get up.

[Sheriff Otis]

You stop n man.

[Narrator]

Him say him know what matter. Him know why you take cash. You let Law take you.

[Billy]

The mask man said that, huh? Then even he's again me.

[Narrator]

No, that's not true. Him your friend. Well, then why him say him fix up trouble. You not worry.

[Billy]

He doesn't know. He can't know. If he knew, he wouldn't have meddled. There. There comes the posse now. Tahno. I'll go to jail and it'll be your fault.

[Sheriff Otis]

You not worry.

[Billy]

Oh, that's easy to say.

[Sheriff Otis]

There he is.

[Billy]

Arrest. Kid's got him.

[Sheriff Otis]

Then we are both of you. Billy, I'm doggone sorry about this.

[Billy]

I ain't gonna put up no fight.

[Sheriff Otis]

Nope. Don't reckon you are, son. Witten Tunkett made you do it. Didn't you know that? If ever there was a time when you needed cash bad, I'd give it to you. Never a question asked. Didn't you know you had friends you could bank on?

[Billy]

I ain't got nothing to say.

[Sheriff Otis]

Blast it all, Kid. I never so hated to make an arrest. In all the time I've Held office. Dog gone, huh?

[Narrator]

He's hid the cash somewheres. We looked through his saddle bags and it ain't there. Can't find a satchel he was staying with neither. He must have hid it someplace in the swamp.

[Sheriff Otis]

Care to tell us where, Billy?

[Billy]

I ain't got nothing to say.

[Sheriff Otis]

Kind of foolish, ain't you? You know, being just a youngster. If you give back that cash, it likely wouldn't go so hard with you. You won't tell where you hid it?

[Billy]

I ain't got nothing to say.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, then I reckon I ain't either. Get back on your horse, Injun. You'll have to come with us. You'll be wanted to give testimony. Boys, hit leather. We're heading back for town. Quiet. Quiet this year. Courtroom quiet. Quiet.

[Narrator]

The crowd that had pushed into the little courtroom was distinctly unfriendly. It was soon clear the trial progressed that even the judge was convinced of Billy's guilt and was restrained from saying so only by the position he held. When Billy himself was at length sworn in the spectators became almost unmanageable.

[Sheriff Otis]

He was as bad as Blackie was.

[Narrator]

I'll watch him try to lie out of it.

[Sheriff Otis]

We'll fix him if he does. That's enough. Any more noise like this and I'll clear the courtroom. Now hurt yourselves. Get on with the witness.

[Narrator]

Your Honor, there ain't no use wasting time on him. He refuses to talk. He says nothing can make him say anything.

[Sheriff Otis]

Then call your next witness.

[Narrator]

Will Saul Bulow please to take the stand?

[Sheriff Otis]

Don't waste my time any more than necessary. I have business to attend to.

[Narrator]

You solemnly swear to tell the truth.

[Sheriff Otis]

The whole truth, nothing but truth.

[Narrator]

Help you?

[Sheriff Otis]

I do.

[Narrator]

Now then, Mr. Bulow, so folks will get the complete picture. I'd like first of all, for you to tell the court in your own words just what was your relationship with the defendant?

[Sheriff Otis]

I had planned to adopt him. Eventually, of course, he would have been my heir.

[Narrator]

And did he seem grateful to you for your generosity and kindness?

[Sheriff Otis]

Mr. Bulow, I'm not so sure I understand the question.

[Narrator]

What I mean is, how do you act at home?

[Sheriff Otis]

He proved sullen and vindictive from the first. I began to doubt the wisdom of my action almost at once but persevered in the hope that his attitude would change. I don't believe it. That's a lot of nonsense. It is as fine a boy dog gone. Can't you folks hush up? Doc, you started it. You sit down to keep still before I have to ask you to leave. Folks, I'm not trying to prejudice you against the defendant. Nevertheless, it must be plain to all of you that he repaid my kindness with treachery. He could claim no relationship to me, yet I was willing to adopt him. He was the ward for years of the most notorious thief known to this district. And yet I was willing to take him into my home. But you had your reason.

[Narrator]

Buello. What? Masked man?

[Billy]

You shouldn't have come here.

[Narrator]

Run for it.

[Billy]

Don't let him catch you. Please, mask man.

[Narrator]

It won't bother me. Billy. Yes. You're going to listen to me. If anybody tries to prevent me, I'll know how to deal with him.

[Sheriff Otis]

Folks, show the masked fellow the respect them low hanging guns of his demands.

[Narrator]

Keep shut and let him speak his peace. How many of you here recognize this man beside me? That there's Clem Placer from over Jonesville way. Howdy, Placer. Howdy. The masked fellow brought me here in.

[Sheriff Otis]

A doggone big hurry for a doggone good reason. Now let him tell it to you.

[Narrator]

I still don't know the entire truth of this affair. But I do know this much, knowing Billy. In the first place, he didn't steal that money from the bank. Billy's as honest as anyone here.

[Sheriff Otis]

Of course he stole it.

[Narrator]

Everybody knows Billy. Can you guess why I brought Clem to Laramie?

[Billy]

Well, my gosh.

[Sheriff Otis]

He's the fellow that wrote the letter.

[Billy]

That Mr. Bulo showed me.

[Narrator]

Exactly. Clem, tell them about it. Billy, I never wrote no such letter. You take it from me.

[Sheriff Otis]

If that polecat there ever said I did, he was lying. That's the straight of it. Wait, listen.

[Narrator]

You listen here.

[Sheriff Otis]

Now, what's all this about a letter?

[Narrator]

Billy took the blame for that robbery to protect me. Bulow showed him a letter he claimed was written by Clem that stated it could be proved I had murdered two deputy marshals. Because Bulow must have threatened to show that letter Billy fell in with whatever scheme it was Bulow suggested. I found the letter when I went through Bulow's home on the day of the robbery.

[Sheriff Otis]

Are you people going to take the word of an admirer, are you?

[Narrator]

It's Clem's worth their taking, not mine. Billy, just what did Bulow force you to do?

[Billy]

It was Mr. Bulow stole the cash. He stole it and said if I didn't run away like I was to blame, then he'd fix it so as the masked man would hang. He's got the cash hid away out.

[Narrator]

Of the floor in his barn.

[Billy]

We can go there and find it.

[Narrator]

And the forged letters and the strong box he keeps at home.

[Sheriff Otis]

Grab the full cash.

[Narrator]

Hey, he's running the door.

[Sheriff Otis]

Likely he was going to beat it out of the country after Billy was jailed for stealing our cat. Well, he'll leave, all right. By way of the rope. Arrest you, Sheriff. The skunk using a boy to help.

[Narrator]

Him rob the bank because he knew.

[Sheriff Otis]

Billy would be too frightened to check on the lies. If he doesn't get the rope for.

[Narrator]

This, I'll shoot him myself.

[Sheriff Otis]

And so will I. Hey, hold him.

[Narrator]

Where'd the mask man go?

[Billy]

Did anybody see which way he went? Hey, where's the masked man?

[Dr. Ewing]

Listen, Billy.

[Billy]

It's him. He's gone.

[Dr. Ewing]

But I've got a notion you'll see him again, young fella.

[Billy]

Ya have? Honest? Do you think so?

[Dr. Ewing]

Mm. Didn't he make Blackie a promise? Didn't he tell Blackie he'd look out for you?

[Billy]

Oh, sure, but.

[Dr. Ewing]

Well, son, the way you and trouble seem to meet, I'd be surprised if his job's half finished.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver. We're needed in Laramie. Pearl. Silver away.

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[Narrator]

A boy of 14 was retreating the length of Laramie's general store while the proprietor angrily waved his arms in front of his face.

[Sheriff Otis]

Get out. Go on, get out. Get out and stay out. I don't want to ever see your face in here again.

[Billy]

Gee, Mr. Robbins, I wasn't doing you no harm. I just wanted to sell you some of the vegetables and things I've been raising.

[Narrator]

I don't want any.

[Sheriff Otis]

I don't do business with folks I can't trust. Now clear out.

[Billy]

Well, listen, Mr. Robbins, I never had nothing to do with Mr. Bulow robbing the bank last the sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

I ain't taking no chances. There's the door pestery once more. And it's a toll I boot you'll be getting.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Young man, don't you be wasting my time.

[Billy]

But, ma'am, these are things I've raised myself that I'll sell you real cheap.

[Narrator]

Cheap? When you're as likely as not to.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Steal something behind my back. Young man, that ain't my idea of a bargain. Now, there's the door. Don't slam it behind you.

[Narrator]

And if you want my advice, young fella, you'll get out of Laramie and keep traveling till you get to a place where folks don't know you. But whatever you do, don't come back here.

[Billy]

But listen. All right. You think you got me licked, don't you? Well, you ain't. I'll show you. I'll show all of you I'm just as good as anybody else. And someday I'll prove it.

[Narrator]

Later that day, two men reined in before a small cabin about five miles from town. Whoa, boy.

[Sheriff Otis]

Billy. You the home, Billy?

[Narrator]

Nice place he's got, Shuck.

[Sheriff Otis]

Billy's a real hard worker. Billy. Hi. Where are you?

[Billy]

Hello, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

Afternoon, young feller. You recollect Walt here, don't you? He's been away from Laramie for a spell, but you ought to know him.

[Billy]

Uh huh. Howdy.

[Narrator]

Glad to see you again, kid.

[Sheriff Otis]

Oh, well, Billy, you needn't stand blocking the door there like we was a couple of crooks. Or ain't you gonna invite us in?

[Billy]

Oh, come in.

[Sheriff Otis]

Keeping things real neat since you come back to the old place to live, huh?

[Billy]

I guess.

[Sheriff Otis]

What's the matter? Kind of down in the mouth, Bob, I guess. Oh, now, you better perk up. Used to be you could find a grin for me, Summers. Ain't you and me friends no more?

[Billy]

I. I don't guess I got no friends no more. Ceptin the masked man and Toddo.

[Narrator]

Hey, you do sound real mournful, Sheriff. I reckon we didn't get here none too soon, kid. Sure is blue. Don't you think we better tell him what we come for?

[Sheriff Otis]

Seems as if. Look, Billy, I don't aim to pretend none. I know what's bothering you just as well as you do.

[Billy]

You'd think I'd been convicted of something.

[Sheriff Otis]

Sure, son, I savvy. But that's the way folks act sometimes. They don't stop to figure things out like you and me do. They just take a quick look at the appearances of things, then take a quicker jump to a full conclusion. And someone has to suffer for it. In this case, that someone being you.

[Billy]

You wait.

[Sheriff Otis]

I'll show em aim to stay on here.

[Billy]

Gosh, I gotta do something, don't I?

[Sheriff Otis]

Well Billy, most any other time I'd agree with you. I'd say stick and fight it out till folks come around to seeing things straight.

[Billy]

I'm gonna.

[Sheriff Otis]

I said most any other time, I tell you that. But this time I can't. There ain't any special use of fighting when there ain't any chance of you winnin'son. I hate to say this, but you got too many things agin you in the first place. There's Blacky.

[Billy]

Don't you dare say anything agin him.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hold on, hold on now, Billy. I ain't sayin anything special agin him though there ain't no use denyin he was a crook. But anyhow, folks are bound to remember how he took care of you all them years. And a lot of them don't realize you never knowed he was crooked till just there at the last. They figure maybe you helped him some. I've even had folks accuse me of going easy with you. Hiding things. I knew cause we was friendly.

[Billy]

Uh huh. I know.

[Sheriff Otis]

Then after Blackie died, Mr. Bulow took in and his bank was robbed. Of course the masked man proved Mr. Bulow was just using you for his own crooked schemes. And the same was brought out in court. But like all us, there's folks that can't believe the plain truth when they're told it. They got the kind of natures that all the time have to be suspicion on things. They wouldn't be happy if they warned. So there you are. You could stay on here another 10 years and there'd always be folks to look down their noses at you.

[Billy]

You mean even you want me to leave?

[Sheriff Otis]

For your own good. Shucks, you could start in again somewhere else where nobody knows about you. Tell you what I'll do. I got a good friend over in the Panhandle. Fellow name of Scott. Owns quite a spread. I'll give you a note to him.

[Billy]

I won't leave. I won't.

[Narrator]

Sheriff's giving you good advice, kid. And if you're afraid to pull stakes cause you're short of cash, why, Reckon I can help you out some. Take this place of yours. Ain't worth a great deal, but it's worth something. Don't know what I could do with it, but I'd be willing to give you a couple of hundred for it. That'd see you through, wouldn't it?

[Billy]

Gee, I don't know what to do.

[Sheriff Otis]

That's a mighty nice offer. For Walt to make. Billy, he's only doing it to help you.

[Billy]

Why, I've never lived anywheres but Laramie.

[Narrator]

To remember, Kid, after you'd got used to it in the panhandle, you'd probably like it twice as good.

[Billy]

Maybe.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, what do you think?

[Billy]

Well, could. Could I think it over for a bit? Do I have to decide right now?

[Narrator]

Why of course not. Take all the time you want. Take a week or two if you'd rather. Don't make no difference to me. Just let me know when you've made up your mind. Well, come on, Sheriff. Let's be getting back.

[Sheriff Otis]

See you later, Billy. And you give what we were saying some thought.

[Billy]

Uh huh.

[Narrator]

And Say, kids.

[Billy]

Yeah?

[Narrator]

I'm staying with my folks in town. I hear you've been raising potatoes and stuff to sell, but nobody's been buying. Why don't you come around to our place? We'll buy some.

[Billy]

Would you? Would you, Honors?

[Narrator]

Well, that's sure thing, Bump. We'll be looking for you. Bye.

[Billy]

I'll be there tomorrow. Gee, maybe I can sell enough so's I can buy some things I've been needing. If I can, then I'll be able to.

[Narrator]

Billy.

[Billy]

It's the masked man. Oh, gee, I thought you'd left.

[Narrator]

Toto and I were gone for a while, Billy, but we came back again to see how you were doing. I was at the window here while the sheriff and that other fellow were inside.

[Billy]

Did you hear what they said?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Billy]

Wasn't that one feller swell? Did you hear him say his and buy some things off of me?

[Narrator]

I did, Billy.

[Billy]

Maybe if they buy and find out I can be trusted, maybe others will do the same. And maybe I hope so.

[Narrator]

But I'm more interested in the advice they gave you.

[Billy]

About leaving, you mean?

[Narrator]

Yes. Are you?

[Billy]

Gosh, I don't know. It don't seem right somehow.

[Narrator]

And yet no one ever won a fight by running away from it. Billy.

[Billy]

But the sheriff said couldn't win.

[Narrator]

I know. I heard him. And I know he's your friend, but even the advice of friends can be mistaken.

[Billy]

Then you think I should stay?

[Narrator]

You want to?

[Billy]

Oh gosh, yes. I don't want to go. I'd heap rather stay here.

[Narrator]

All right. Stay then. Stay, Billy. And I'll make you a promise.

[Billy]

A promise?

[Narrator]

Fight this out and Toto and I will fight on your side. We'll fight until you win.

[Billy]

Will ya?

[Narrator]

You have my word.

[Billy]

Oh golly, I. You just bet I'll stay.

[Narrator]

Good boy. Shake on it.

[Billy]

There now.

[Narrator]

Then it's a bargain.

[Billy]

But what do we do?

[Narrator]

I have an idea I want to talk over with Toddo. I'll tell you about it later.

[Billy]

Oh, swell.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver.

[Billy]

Bye.

[Narrator]

Adios. Adios, Silver. Away. Returning to the camp he shared with Tondo, the masked man spoke of the plan he had mentioned to Billy. Although Billy's difficulty lies in the fact that people refuse to believe he could be involved in so much trouble without being partly to blame. Isn't that right? There's something been overlooked. Something we could turn to Billy's advantage. What? That Black. He carried out his robberies for years. He was a thief long before he took Billy under his care and remained a thief afterwards. Although he kept it from the boy. He couldn't have spent all the money he stole, especially during the last years of his career. Law not fine money. That's exactly what I'm getting at. No money was found. Blackie must have hidden it. Not right that money could be found. And if it were Billy who voluntarily turned it over to the law, then no one could suspect him of dishonesty. And we'll stay out of the picture. We let it be thought that only Billy knew of the money's existence and therefore he could have kept it if he had chosen that heap. Good idea. The question, of course, is to find where Blackie has hidden the money. That'd be heap hard. Perhaps. May not prove as difficult, however, as it seems at first thought. What do you mean? I believe someone else has thought of the same thing. Someone who wants that hidden money for himself. You know, feller, I'm not mistaken. I do. And it may be that he knows where the money is. In which case, we let him show us whether he's willing or not. Early the next morning, Billy acted on Walt's invitation and loading his small cart with vegetables, drove to town. There, while Walt stood by, he displayed his wares to Walt's mother, who bought generously.

[Mrs. Clemens]

My, this is fine lettuce. And these turnips. Ain't it just dandies?

[Billy]

I'm awful glad you like them, ma'am. Can I sell you anything else?

[Mrs. Clemens]

I'd like to buy more, but I'm afraid that'll be all I can use for now.

[Narrator]

Just take him on into the house, Billy, and come back and I'll pay you.

[Billy]

Uh huh. In the kitchen, ma'am.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Right on the table.

[Billy]

He has some.

[Narrator]

Well, Ma, boy ain't so bad as folks have been telling you, huh?

[Mrs. Clemens]

Indeed he isn't. He's a regular little gentleman. And to think of him at his age, just 14 or 15, ain't he? Well, to think of a boy of 14 having the gumption to make his own way like this. I vow there ain't many that'll do it.

[Narrator]

I took a liking to the kid the minute I saw him.

[Mrs. Clemens]

You can tell him to call around regular. Save me a lot of fetching from the store.

[Billy]

I put him where you said, ma'am, and. And. And thanks a heap for buying from me.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Land sakes, child, I ain't done you no favor. You done me one. Vegetables like you got to be a real treat.

[Narrator]

Here you are, Billy.

[Billy]

Oh, thanks. Thanks ever so much.

[Narrator]

Says you can come around some. Maybe in a day or two again, huh?

[Billy]

I sure will. Gee, business is picking up right smart. Good day to you.

[Narrator]

Bye.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Goodbye.

[Billy]

Get up. Get up there.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I got my grocery money in the kitchen, son. I'll pay you back.

[Narrator]

Oh, you don't have to do that, Mom.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Indeed I do. What would your PA say if he found out I let you pay for vittles when you come to visit us? I'd never hear the last of it. Wasn't much, was it?

[Narrator]

No, just 50 cents. Well, I.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Why declare you.

[Narrator]

Huh? What's the matter?

[Mrs. Clemens]

My money's gone.

[Narrator]

No.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I had close to $50 right here in this jar.

[Narrator]

But where could it have got to Look, Ma? You must have put it somewhere else and forgot it.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I never did. It wasn't an hour ago I counted it after paying that fellow for the cordwood. After I counted it, I put it right back. It's been took some time between then and now.

[Narrator]

Why, Ma, that's the same as saying I took it.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I never said no such thing.

[Narrator]

Well, there ain't been nobody but you and me in here the past hour, ain't there? Shucks, no. Paul went down to the harness shop right after breakfast. The fella delivered the cordwood, and that's all there's been around.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Why, that's funny.

[Narrator]

Of course, somebody could have sneaked in here sometime.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Maybe it's me in the kitchen the whole time. I ain't been out of it until just now when that boy. Oh, that boy. He come in here to leave what I bought off him.

[Narrator]

Now, wait, mate.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Nothing. It was him. It had to be him.

[Narrator]

You shouldn't say a thing like that unless you're sure of it.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I am sure of it. I'm as sure as ever seen him with my own eyes, the thief. And after you being so good to him, too.

[Narrator]

What are you doing?

[Mrs. Clemens]

I'm getting my hat and coat. That's what, little wretch? Land sakes. You do a body of kindness and that's what you get for it. You stay here and watch things while I'm out.

[Narrator]

Where are you going?

[Mrs. Clemens]

To see the sheriff. He'll lock up that little sneak and get my money back. Or buy Thunderation.

[Billy]

I'll know the reason why, but.

[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.

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[Narrator]

Now to continue our story, Billy drove home and unaware the trouble brewing in town, went to work straightening up the cabin. Shortly afterward, he heard some horsemen stopping outside and gosh, what's that?

[Billy]

Oh, hello, Billy.

[Narrator]

You're in trouble.

[Mrs. Clemens]

What?

[Narrator]

Now look, kid, I don't think you've done it, but you better clear out just as sure as sin they'll pin it on you. You won't have a chance.

[Billy]

Done what? Gee whizz.

[Narrator]

Right after you left this morning, Ma found her grocery money gone. Of course, I knew she was mistaken, but she's bound. You done it and she's gone to the sheriff. He'll be out here most anytime now, so you'd better be gone when he comes.

[Billy]

Oh, I never stole nothing. Honest I never ain't.

[Narrator]

I tell you, I don't think you did. Shucks, I was your friend from the first, weren't I? I can tell by looking at him whether a fellow's square or not. I figure you are, but what I figure don't count.

[Billy]

But gee.

[Narrator]

Now listen, waste no time. I come to warn you, to see that you had a fair chance to get away. Look, here's more than $100. These friends of mine come along to witness this. Take the cash for your place here and then beat it.

[Billy]

You're buying my place.

[Sheriff Otis]

You hid him didn't you, kid?

[Narrator]

Better take it, bub. And thank your lucky stars you got Walt for a friend. But, Billy, I ain't got no more use for this place than I got for an extra foot. All I'm doing this for is to see that you have cash enough to get away from here. I'll take in Vammos Prado.

[Billy]

But if I'm selling, won't there be no papers to sign her in Area 1?

[Narrator]

That's why my friends come along with them to testify you sold out Willing? It'll be a deal. Now, you take this cash and. One moment.

[Sheriff Otis]

What?

[Narrator]

They don't accept that money. Crook. What? Don't slap leather unless you want to make a gunfight out of this.

[Billy]

Don't shoot. Please don't shoot. The masked man's my friend.

[Sheriff Otis]

Funny kind of a friend for a.

[Narrator]

Kid to have, but it looks as though he needs one. Walt, if you want this place, you can have it for $500. What's that?

[Billy]

Gosh.

[Sheriff Otis]

Wait.

[Billy]

You don't savvy. He ain't buying because he wants it. Walt's my friend, too. He's just doing it to help me.

[Narrator]

Yes. Then let him help you. $500 worth. I ain't got that much. If I did, it's five times what the place is worth. How much have you? Just what?

[Sheriff Otis]

Reason?

[Narrator]

How much have you? That's my business. Well, then the sale's off. Ain't the kid got something to say about this? Of course. But I think he'll do what I tell him. Billy, are you gonna let this mask on me boss you around?

[Billy]

Gosh, I. I don't know what. Yes, I am. He's been my friend for longer than anybody else around here. And I'll do anything he says, no matter what.

[Narrator]

Well, Walt, I. Well, all I got with me is 300. Then hand it over.

[Billy]

But gee, mister, I don't want to cheat him. He's right about the place not being worth over a hundred.

[Narrator]

Take the money.

[Billy]

But.

[Narrator]

Take it. Well, I shouldn't pay it. I only been willing to pay five times as much if it had been necessary. Walt, the deal's finished. Clear out. Clear out.

[Sheriff Otis]

Come on, Walt. The place is yours. That's what you wanted, ain't it?

[Narrator]

Yeah. I'll remember how you held me up when I was just doing you a favor, kid. Don't think I won't.

[Billy]

Gosh, masked man, I don't feel as.

[Narrator]

If I should have taken the money.

[Billy]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Don't let it worry you, no matter what Walt said he didn't buy this place as a favor to you. I'll tell you.

[Billy]

Hey, look at there. There comes a sheriff with a whole pack of pellets.

[Narrator]

Then I'm leaving. But, Billy.

[Billy]

Huh?

[Narrator]

I haven't time to explain. But it was planned for the stolen money to be found on your place. It won't be. Tell the truth that you weren't to blame for the theft. Nothing can be done to you. No one saw you take the money. And as long as the money can't be found here, you're safe.

[Billy]

You better hurry. Then they come.

[Narrator]

Right. Come on, Silver. Come on, old fellow. Tonto was waiting for the Lone Ranger some distance from Billy's cabin.

[Sheriff Otis]

Oh, fool.

[Narrator]

Silver.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hold on.

[Narrator]

Hold on.

[Sheriff Otis]

What?

[Narrator]

What happened? Take this. It's cash, Silver, and bills. The money's supposed to have been stolen from Walt's mother. I found it where I thought I would. Hidden in Billy's wagon. Him not put cash there. No Kimasabi he didn't. Walt did. He must have placed it there this morning when Billy called at his home. The sheriff's at Billy's place now. No doubt he'll search it, but he'll find nothing. Him see you go. Yes, but that's all right. Maybe lawman think boy give you cash, hide for him. He won't tell. For a very good reason. What? That you're taking that money to town and making it look as though there were no robbery at all. Me not savvy. Listen, I'll explain. Although the sheriff returned to Laramie with word that nothing had been found in Billy's cabin that would justify arresting the boy, the townspeople were not satisfied. The sheriff's partiality for the youngster was well known. And there were many who believed that if he had performed his duty honestly, Billy would have gone to jail. Fellers, I don't care if the sheriff does say he searched that place from top to bottom. I don't care if he swears to it a dozen times over. I'm here to say if he didn't find the cash, it was cause he didn't want to.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Pity. The law can't protect us from a thieving boy.

[Narrator]

That's all I have to say.

[Mrs. Clemens]

I told you, you want to be trusted.

[Advertiser]

I told you so.

[Mrs. Clemens]

Don't you recollect me telling it to you.

[Narrator]

Why, I was just saying the other day to Ms. Horton.

[Sheriff Otis]

I tell you, the rest of you can do as you like, but me, I'm calling on the sheriff. I'm going to find out for myself if he's willing to do his duty. If he ain't, then there's just one thing to do. Run that kid out of the county yourselves.

[Narrator]

But that night, the masked man and Billy knelt behind a clump of bushes not far from the cabin. They watched three men digging by lantern light. And now do you understand why Walt was so anxious to help you? Billy?

[Billy]

He. He was after Blackie's case, right?

[Narrator]

Somehow he learned where it was. Perhaps he knew Black at one time or another. Perhaps he spied on him. Anyhow, that doesn't matter. The point is Wolf wasn't interested in you in the least. He only wanted you out of the way. Be careful. Don't let them hear you.

[Billy]

I won't.

[Narrator]

Remember what you're to do.

[Billy]

Uh huh. Just as soon as they've dug to where the cash is, you're gonna get him to chase me, right? And then when they can't see me, I'm to run over there and grab the cash myself.

[Narrator]

Tata will help you. He's over there beyond them.

[Billy]

Well then I'm to get to my.

[Narrator]

Horse and ride as fast as you can for town. I'll most likely be there ahead of you.

[Billy]

Uh huh. But. But there's something I don't see.

[Sheriff Otis]

Yes?

[Billy]

Why don't you just hold them up and take the cash now?

[Narrator]

Because you're taking that money, Billy, and you're turning it over to the law. When questions are asked, you're going to be able to answer honestly without involving Tato and me. Walt may suspect that I drew him away for a purpose, but he'll be in no position to say so. Well then I bet there's no more time for talk now, Billy. I think they're nearly finished. I'll have to get back to Silver when the time comes. Move fast.

[Billy]

Yeah.

[Sheriff Otis]

How much people we got to take? You'll be much bother getting tired. You think Blackie was figuring to leave this here forever?

[Narrator]

Just about what he did. Figure this he buried here is all cash he hid away when he first met the kid. He never planned on using it unless there was a bad need for it.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, come on, let's keep going. Yeah. If somebody should ride by and see us out here with this lantern, might get too doggone curious. Dig faster.

[Narrator]

Hurry up. We struck something. It's the box he put the cash in. Keep on going.

[Sheriff Otis]

From the size of it, there must be a pund. Either there is.

[Narrator]

Told you I heard Blacky post he had over 20,000 in the way, didn't I?

[Sheriff Otis]

That's it. It's Clear.

[Narrator]

Come on, then, give me a hand. It'll carry to the cabinet. Come on, Silver.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hey, somebody's shooting at us.

[Narrator]

There he is, over there. Come on, grab your gun. Bring it on.

[Sheriff Otis]

Come on, Bring.

[Narrator]

That. Same evening, the citizens of Laramie call on the sheriff at his office to demand action.

[Sheriff Otis]

You tell that kid to clear out.

[Narrator]

Sheriff, or we will. How do we know who he'll be stealing from next? It might be most any of us. And likely, when it happens, he'll have another slick story to get him out of it.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hold on. Listen to me, folks. You're getting things all twisted. You were saying? Billy's a crook, and I know doggone well he ain't. Now, you take my word for it and forget this fool talk. Then you ain't gonna do nothing about it, Is that it, Sheriff? If you want it put plain, that's it. Then we will. Who's with me? Who'll come along to tell that young coyote to clear out?

[Narrator]

I will.

[Sheriff Otis]

Boy. He's just a kid. But a kid can steal like anybody else. Come on, we'll shun.

[Narrator]

Stay where you are. Hey, a masked man. Not a one of you leaves his office.

[Sheriff Otis]

Sheriff, if the crook arrest him.

[Narrator]

He can't.

[Sheriff Otis]

If he was a crook, I'd say trying to arrest him right now would be pretty risky business. And I just so happen to know he ain't one. I've met this hombre before. You see, folks, the sheriff ain't only sticking up for that kid, but he's siding with outlaws as well. I see.

[Narrator]

I'm not an outlaw. I'm here only to prevent your making a mistake. You're not going to get a chance to harm Billy until you've learned he's not the thief you think him. We know all we need to know about Billy. Why, it's under.

[Sheriff Otis]

Careful.

[Narrator]

Come on, there's enough of us here. Let's rush him. The first man moves stops lead.

[Billy]

Sheriff.

[Narrator]

Sheriff.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hey, there's Walt Small. Let her through.

[Narrator]

Ma'am.

[Sheriff Otis]

What business you got here? She can tell you about the kid. It was her he stole that $50 from.

[Mrs. Clemens]

But he didn't. That's why I've come. I've made a terrible mistake. I found the money. It was in my stone basket. I don't recollect putting it there, but I must have and forgot about it. Oh, Sheriff, I'm so sorry. I never meant to accuse a boy without being sure.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, folks, how do you like that? Now, what have you got to say? How do we know it ain't A trick. How do we know the kid didn't sneak back there with the cash? Just cause he knew this time he was caught, was going to be run out of town.

[Narrator]

Juan, how about a man so that himself, huh? He just rode up. He's coming in here.

[Sheriff Otis]

Hey, what's that box he's carrying, Sheriff?

[Billy]

You take this. I'll turn it over to you.

[Sheriff Otis]

What is it?

[Narrator]

Why don't you look inside?

[Sheriff Otis]

Yeah, stand back, folks. Don't keep crowding me. Well, I'll be.

[Mrs. Clemens]

That box is full of cash.

[Sheriff Otis]

By golly, there must be thousands there.

[Narrator]

Where'd it come from? Did the kid find it?

[Sheriff Otis]

Whoa up, folks. Whoa. Let the kid tell it for hisself. All right, Billy. Now, where'd this box come from and who's it belong to?

[Billy]

I don't know who it belongs to, Sheriff. Honest I don't.

[Narrator]

It.

[Billy]

It's cash Blackie must have stole. It was found buried near the cabin, so I brought it here to you.

[Sheriff Otis]

You brought it to me when you might have made off with it.

[Billy]

But it was stole. It don't belong to me. Gee, I don't want it if it's been stolen.

[Narrator]

Now then, you there you were talking the loudest against him. What do you say now? I.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, maybe I could have been mistaken.

[Narrator]

Maybe.

[Sheriff Otis]

Well, I was then. Is that what you want me to say?

[Narrator]

Yes. To think of anybody choosing to give up all that care.

[Mrs. Clemens]

And we called the boy a thief. I was the worst of all. I reckon if it hadn't been for me, all this trouble wouldn't have started. Young man, I'm right sorry.

[Billy]

Ah, that's all right.

[Narrator]

Now, perhaps you people won't be so ready to judge before you know the facts. Perhaps you'll be ready to use charity instead of criticism. Billy has fought against odds to make a place for himself here. And yet instead of helping him, every one of you, with the exception of the sheriff, has treated him like a convicted thief. And me, for one. I'll stay in front of all of you here and all gone. Ashamed of myself, kid. As far as I'm concerned, you're all right.

[Sheriff Otis]

You're doggone fools. It took the masked man to show you what I knowed all the time.

[Narrator]

I know. Silver away.

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[Narrator]

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

[Sheriff Otis]

Foreign.

[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 Become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank the following ranch hand Steve who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.