Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: Blind Justice | The Lone Ranger (01-20-41)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: January 20, 1941 (Aired on podcast November 23, 2025)

Episode Overview

Theme & Purpose:
This episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored broadcast of The Lone Ranger episode "Blind Justice." The adventure centers on Sheriff Jim Bradley, whose declining eyesight makes him vulnerable as criminal elements plot to overtake his town. The Lone Ranger and Tonto uncover the plot and orchestrate a plan to restore true justice to Porter's Gap—while exploring themes of legacy, redemption, and loyalty.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Setting the Scene: Porter's Gap and the Blind Sheriff

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive on the outskirts of Porter's Gap to investigate rumors regarding Sheriff Jim Bradley's failing eyesight and its impact on the safety of the town.
  • "If he had seen it, he'd never have offered me a job. Miss bloody thick. Not that thick. I'm sure of it now. T. Bradley is losing his sight." —The Lone Ranger (05:38)

2. Small Town Loyalty and Hidden Dangers

• The people of Porter's Gap revere Sheriff Bradley, resisting any suggestion he's unfit for duty—despite knowing about his blindness.
  • "Jim's our sheriff. And he's going to stay sheriff as long as he wants the job." —Bartender (06:29)
• The Lone Ranger subtly probes the dangers inherent in having a blind lawman while learning of Bradley's personal reason for holding on: waiting for his son Bob to return and take over the badge.

3. The Criminal Conspiracy: Buck & Ransom's Plot

• Two newcomers to town (Buck and Ransom) plot to rob the express office, then supplant the sheriff and turn the town into a haven for outlaws.
  • "We could work out something pretty sweet. There's a Ringo kid, for instance... But how can I be sheriff? The town so sold on Bradley. You'll have to use blasting powder to get him loose from the job." —Ransom & Buck (10:52)

4. Assassination Attempt & Narrow Escape

• Sheriff Bradley is ambushed while riding home. The Lone Ranger and Tonto rescue the wounded sheriff and safely bring him to his ranch.
  • "Take a look around, Tedder. Him dead? Not yet. But we'll have to get him somewhere quickly." —Lone Ranger & Tonto (13:41)

5. Tensions in Town: The Frame-up

• Buck manipulates townsfolk into believing the Lone Ranger and Tonto shot the sheriff, leading to a mob chasing the heroes.

6. A Plan for Justice and the Quest for Bob

• With time running out, the Lone Ranger urges the wounded sheriff to delay any succession so he and Tonto can find Bob Bradley (aka "Chet Carlson"), and bring him back to save both his father and the town.
  • "Refuse to hand over your badge. Insist on an election. Do anything you can to give us three days." —Lone Ranger (19:14)

7. Tracking Down Bob: Wrongly Accused, Reluctant Son

• In San Marino and then Durango, the Lone Ranger finds Bob, now going under the name Chet Carlson, recently released from jail under a cloud of suspicion.
  • "I've been in jail, but I'm no crook, see?" —Bob/"Chet" (22:51)
• The Lone Ranger convinces the reluctant young man to return, emphasizing his father's need for him and the hope of redemption.

8. Showdown and Restoration at Porter's Gap

• As Bob returns, the town is on the brink. He admits to the assembled townsfolk his prison time and wrongful accusation, but is nonetheless embraced.
  • "You're a chip off the old bark. What more could we ask?" —Townsperson (28:27)
• Buck attempts to seize the sheriff's badge; a tense standoff is averted when the Lone Ranger shoots the gun from his hand, revealing the true villains.

9. Resolution and Reflection

• Justice is restored in Porter's Gap: Bob is elected sheriff, the conspirators are arrested, and Sheriff Bradley finds peace knowing his legacy and town are secure.
  • "That's enough for me. It's enough for us, too. How about it, boys? He's learned his lesson. I say he'll be a better man because of it." —Sheriff Bradley & Townsfolk (29:09)
• The Lone Ranger quietly departs, as is his custom, never waiting for thanks.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Bradley’s Declining Sight:
  • "If he had seen it, he'd never have offered me a job. Miss bloody thick. Not that thick. I'm sure of it now. T. Bradley is losing his sight." —Lone Ranger (05:38)
• Town’s Loyalty:
  • "Jim's our sheriff. And he's going to stay sheriff as long as he wants the job." —Bartender (06:29)
• Criminal Plotting:
  • "We could work out something pretty sweet... Not if something happens. I can't stick out the express office and then run for sheriff." —Buck & Ransom (11:42)
• On Redemption:
  • "I've been in jail, but I'm no crook, see?" —Bob/"Chet" (22:51)
  • "You're a chip off the old bark. What more could we ask?" —Townsperson (28:27)
• Lone Ranger’s Departure:
  • "That was the Lone Ranger. And before you've been sheriff long, you will find that when his work's done, he never waits for thanks." —Sheriff Bradley (30:06)

Timestamps for Key Segments

| Timestamp | Segment Description | |-----------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 03:38 | Opening narration — Lone Ranger’s arrival and the town’s introduction | | 05:38 | Lone Ranger observes Sheriff Bradley’s failing eyesight | | 06:29 | Town’s steadfast loyalty to Bradley discussed in the cafe | | 10:52 | Buck and Ransom discuss their plan to seize control | | 13:41 | Lone Ranger & Tonto rescue wounded Sheriff Bradley from ambush | | 19:14 | Lone Ranger urges Sheriff Bradley to resist resignation for three days | | 22:51 | Lone Ranger confronts Bob ("Chet Carlson") in Durango | | 28:27 | Bob’s confession and the town’s support—culminating in the showdown | | 30:06 | Reflection on Lone Ranger’s quiet departure and legacy |

Tone & Style

The episode maintains a heroic, earnest tone with classic radio drama pacing—underscored by themes of loyalty, redemption, and Old West justice. The dialogue is rich in period vernacular and moral clarity, with moments of tension, community spirit, and heartfelt reconciliation.

Summary

"Blind Justice" is a quintessential Lone Ranger adventure: fast-paced, filled with moral dilemmas, and ultimately uplifting. The digitally restored audio brings the iconic soundscape of the golden age of radio alive for a new generation, while the timeless tale of a father, son, and town united by justice and loyalty continues to resonate.