Call to the Colors | The Lone Ranger (06-14-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Episode Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
• Host: Andrew Rines
• Episode: Call to the Colors | The Lone Ranger (06-14-50)
• Release Date: February 13, 2025

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Introduction to the Adventure

The episode "Call to the Colors" from the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast transports listeners back to the golden age of Western radio dramas, featuring the legendary hero, the Lone Ranger. The host, Andrew Rines, sets the stage for an immersive experience, free of the original recording's limitations, showcasing digitally restored audio that brings the Wild West to life with enhanced clarity and depth.

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Setting the Scene

The story begins with the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto, traversing the Arkansas Valley. Early signs of unrest are evident as they observe smoldering signal fires and tracks indicating small Indian raiding parties on the move.

Key Quote:

• Narrator [02:19]: "With his faithful Indian companion, Toto, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States."

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Encounter with Jim Wade

As the duo investigates, they discover the remains of a sod-covered dugout where a young woman, Mrs. Elsie Gannett, stands guard. The Lone Ranger and Tonto introduce themselves not as bandits but as protectors warning of impending Indian troubles. Their confrontation briefly escalates until the Lone Ranger asserts, "We're not bandits. We came to warn you" ([03:20]).

Shortly after, they are ambushed by a group of Indians attacking the sod house. In the ensuing chaos, they rescue a wounded man, Lieutenant Jim Wade, who reveals his innocence regarding a theft accusation and implicates Sage Gannett as the true culprit behind the missing money.

Notable Quotes:

• Lone Ranger [03:20]: "We're not bandits. We came to warn you."
• Jim Wade [05:53]: "I didn't steal that money. But I think I know who did."

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Unraveling the Mystery

Lt. Jim Wade discloses that the stolen money was hidden in an iron box by Sage Gannett, who married Elsie and relocated to a nearby dugout. Wade has been surveilling Gannett, anticipating the theft's reveal. This revelation leads the Lone Ranger and Tonto to alert Colonel Nelson at Fort Mason, presenting Wade and his story for verification.

Key Quote:

• Jim Wade [05:53]: "The money was in a small iron box. If Gannett took it, he hid it."

Colonel Nelson, upon verifying Wade's account, requests the Lone Ranger's assistance in locating the main body of the Indian raiders. The Ranger agrees, planning a strategic surprise attack with the available troopers.

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Confrontation with Sage Gannett

As tensions rise, Sage Gannett attempts to bury the stolen money, fearing exposure. The Lone Ranger and Tonto intervene, leading to a tense standoff with Elsie Gannett, who initially distrusts the duo. The Lone Ranger presents the recovered iron box, convincing Elsie of their authenticity and the truth behind her husband's alleged theft.

Notable Quotes:

• Elsie Gannett [12:54]: "No, I won't go with you. It's a trick of some kind."
• Tonto [13:44]: "I'll explain everything. Then perhaps you."

Elsie eventually believes their account, and she joins the Lone Ranger and Tonto in their mission to confront the Indian threat.

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Defending the Sod House

The climax unfolds as the Lone Ranger and Elsie Gannett defend the sod house against relentless Indian attacks. Utilizing the limited ammunition from a buffalo gun, they manage to repel the attackers repeatedly. The Lone Ranger's strategic use of his six-shooter becomes pivotal in holding off the onslaught.

Key Quote:

• Lone Ranger [15:34]: "That will stop them temporarily. They'll try it again."

Hours of defense culminate with the arrival of Colonel Nelson's troopers, who assist in driving away the final wave of attackers. This timely intervention secures the safety of Elsie and validates Jim Wade's innocence.

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Resolution and Vindication

With the conflict resolved, Jim Wade is exonerated and honorably reinstated in the military, earning his captaincy. Elsie Gannett finds solace and safety, expressing gratitude towards the Lone Ranger and Tonto for their unwavering support.

Notable Quotes:

• Jim Wade [19:21]: "I'll never lose faith, Elsie. I knew that someday I'd prove my innocence."
• Lone Ranger [19:45]: "Enjoy your happiness, Elsie."

Jim acknowledges the Lone Ranger's role in his redemption, and the heroes prepare to part ways, underscoring the Ranger's commitment to justice and protection.

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Conclusion

The episode concludes with the Lone Ranger and Tonto riding off into the sunset, having once again upheld justice in the Wild West. Their partnership and dedication exemplify the enduring legacy of these iconic characters, bringing a sense of closure and satisfaction to the listeners.

Closing Quote:

• Lone Ranger [20:04]: "Good luck and adios."

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Significant Themes and Insights

• Justice and Redemption: Jim Wade's journey from a falsely accused deserter to a reinstated military officer highlights the theme of rightful redemption through truth and bravery.

• Trust and Loyalty: The unwavering trust between the Lone Ranger and Tonto, as well as the eventual trust Elsie places in them, underscores the importance of loyalty and integrity.

• Courage in Adversity: The protagonists' fearless defense against overwhelming odds epitomizes courage, a cornerstone of Western heroism.

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Final Thoughts

"Call to the Colors | The Lone Ranger (06-14-50)" offers a compelling narrative rich with action, suspense, and moral dilemmas characteristic of classic Westerns. Andrew Rines' meticulous digital restoration enhances the listening experience, allowing contemporary audiences to appreciate the timeless tales of the Lone Ranger and his steadfast ally, Tonto.

For listeners new and old, this episode serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Old Time Radio Westerns, blending nostalgia with high-quality production to preserve and celebrate these iconic stories.

Transcript

[Lone Ranger]

With the American Express Gold Card, I can earn four times membership rewards points at US Supermarkets. So with all these groceries, I'm also getting points.

[Tonto]

Learn [e-mail] US Explore Gold Terms and Points cap apply.

[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, my.

[Narrator]

Special recording, the Lone Ranger. A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high old Silver. The Lone Ranger. Before this exciting adventure, a word from our sponsor. With his faithful Indian companion, Toto, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. Let's go. Bighouse and Silver.

[Narrator]

Since daybreak, the Lone Ranger and Toto had been riding through the Arkansas Valley, observing signs that Indians were on the move. Presently they found the smoldering remains of signal fires and tracks of small mounted parties.

[Lone Ranger]

They appear to be raiding parties, but small ones that not good and maybe make plenty trouble. We could locate the main body of Indians. We could ride to Fort Mason for troops. Look, Kimasabe. You see Sod house of buffalo hunters. Yes. There's smoke coming from the chimney. We're right there. And warned them.

[Narrator]

As they approached the sod covered dugout. A young woman stood in the doorway watching as they reined in their horses. She turned and called into the Saudi.

[Tonto]

Hey, you and Joe, come out here.

[Lone Ranger]

A ma ban.

[Tonto]

An Indian just rode up.

[Narrator]

What did you say about a mask man?

[Tonto]

Right there.

[Lone Ranger]

Sure enough. Hey, mister, the idea of coming here with a mask on your face. We're not bandits. We came to warn you. War us about what? Indians are on the move. We've seen the trail of several small parties this morning. They may be out for trouble. We're not afraid of redskins. We? You should get this woman to safety. That's my responsibility. Now get out of here before my brother puts a bullet through you. Very well. I advise you to be on guard. Let's go, Totto.

[Narrator]

The little Ranger and Tottle permitted their horses to slow to a walk. Soon after leaving the sod house, Tuttle registered his annoyance.

[Lone Ranger]

Feller in sod house. Stubborn Fool. His name is Sage Gannett. The other man is his brother Joe. How you known Kimasabe? I recognize the woman. She's the daughter of Seth Watkins, the storekeeper at the fort. Me know him. I learned recently that she married a buffalo hunter named Gannett. Look, Kimasabi. It's the Indians. Them shoot guns. Five of them. They're shooting at someone in the drawer below. That's right. They'll not see us yet. All right, draw your guns. They're going shooting.

[Narrator]

Surprised by the sudden attack, the small group of Indians broke and fled on their horses. As soon as the Lone Ranger and Tottle raced into the draw.

[Lone Ranger]

Fella shoot at looked like soldiers. Seems to be wounded. Easy. Go easy, feller. You could sure save my scalp. Mister, Are you badly hit? No, no. Just a shoulder wound. Hello. Get the medical kit. We'll bandage your wound and take you to the fort. Thanks for offering to fix me up. But you're not taking me to the fort. Are you a deserter? No, I was drummed out of the service. But you're not interested in that. Just fix me up, friend. You must be Lieutenant Jim Wade. As you know that you were accused of theft about six months ago. Death from the Watkins store for an owl hooch. You know a lot about me. I'm not a bandit. Easy now, while I clean the wound. Racing fellow.

[Narrator]

For the next few minutes, the Lone Ranger cleansed and bound the wounded shoulder of Jim Wade. When he had finished, he said you.

[Lone Ranger]

Were drummer the service six months ago. Why are you still around here? It's none of your business. But you saved my life, so I. I guess I should tell you. Anything you want to know. That's up to you, Jim. I didn't steal that money. But I. I think I know who did. Who? Sage Gannett. Buffalo Honey. Janet and I were courting Elsie Watkins, store owner's daughter. Then money disappeared. One night I took Elsie to a dance. I was blamed for it. Yes, I know. But you haven't answered my question. Why are you still around here? Yeah, I'm getting to that. The money was in a small iron box. If Gannett took it, he hid it. Because he married Elsie and took her to live in a dugout not far from here. Yes, I know. Gannett wouldn't want Elsie to know he took the money. So I have been watching him for months now. I've trailed him everywhere. He's gone. One of these days he'll go after that iron box. When he does, I'll have him where I want him. Catch him Fellow he's painting get his horse. He'll take him to the fort now.

[Narrator]

Sentry. On guard in front of Colonel Nelson's headquarters at Fort Mason could hardly believe his eyes when he saw the Lone Ranger and Tottle with Lt. Jim Wade supported between them, riding boldly toward him.

[Lone Ranger]

Holy smokes. A masked man and an Indian with Jim Wade. Get your hands up, mister. You sure? Engine, I must see Colonel Nelson at once. This man has been wounded and he's losing blood rapidly. What's going on here? We have a wounded man here, Colonel. We brought him here for medical care. Wade. Who are you? This may identify me here, sir. A bullet. A silver bullet. I see. Yes. I'm sorry, I didn't recognize you. What happened to this man? He was wounded by Indians. Potter and I drove them off. He needs immediate care, Colonel. Of course. Sidri, see that this man is taken to the hospital at once. He does, sir. Mister, you say this is the work of Indians? Yes, Colonel. They're out to make trouble. And I want more information about this. Will you come inside? All right, Silver. Easy.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger told Colonel Nelson how he and Tato had found Indian signs. How they had fought off the Indians attacking Jim Wade. And also the story that Wade had told them. When he had finished, Col. Nelson said.

[Lone Ranger]

I had no idea Jim Wade was still in the vicinity. In view of what he told you, his story rings true. Yes, it does. I intend to investigate it thoroughly later. Not now. Why not now? Because of what you say about the Indians. My scouts are at Fort McPherson. I need your services. Very well, Colonel. If you can locate the main body of Indians, I have enough troopers here to stage a surprise attack. Pardon me. As for come in. He must have in. We take Jim Wade to hospital. Doctors say he'll be all right soon. I'm glad to hear that, Taro. Indeed I am. So am I. Well, Colonel, till now. Get on our way now. You're doing me a great favor. We'll bring word the moment we find the Indian. Adios. Adios, sir. Oh, this is the place I buried the box. Joe, give me the short handled spade and saddle just to be on the safe side. You keep watch while I dig. Yeah, it's a good idea. That masked man may have pretended to ride off, then double back. He's mighty tricky. He should show up. We'll be ready for him. We'll pick him and the engine off of the rifle and we'll make the hole a little bigger and bury the two of them. You get to digging, Sage. I'll Keep watching. All right. Here it is, Joe. Just wear a dirt. Want me to L.G. no, no. It's not heavy. Wait. Tank. Go dirt back over that bus. Yeah, all right. What's wrong? Look to the West Indians. The masked man didn't lie. Yeah, you're right. The redskins. All right.

[Narrator]

Get married.

[Lone Ranger]

No, Joe. We wouldn't stand a chance. We gotta fight it out here. Give me my rifle.

[Narrator]

Got your horse. Let him have his hay.

[Lone Ranger]

Coming. Shot count.

[Narrator]

After leaving Fort Mason, the Lone Ranger and Tahoe followed the ridges overlooking the valley of the Arkansas for several miles. They adjust in words from a stretch of timber when the masked man pointed to the ground.

[Lone Ranger]

Look. Tunnel. Here are tracks of horses coming out of the timber. Ah, they see them. Tracks made by Indian ponies. No shoes on them. It's a fairly large body of Indians. A dozen or more. That right? We'll fail them. The tracks may lead us to the main body.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our Lone Ranger adventure in just a moment. Now to continue. The Lone Ranger and Tato had gone but a short distance when they came upon the bodies of Sage Gannett and his brother Joe. Their two dead horses lay nearby.

[Lone Ranger]

The Indians were hiding in the timber.

[Narrator]

This was a surprise attack.

[Lone Ranger]

And Indians in hurry. They're not stop or scout. Look here, Toto. These men seem to have been digging in the ground when they were attacked. Ah. Look around that loose dirt. See what you can find while I examine the body.

[Narrator]

While the Lone Ranger identified the dead men as the Gamut brothers, Tonto dug in the loose dirt and soon found the iron box which he lifted from the hole. The masked man examined it and said.

[Lone Ranger]

Remember what Jim Wade told us this morning about the money stolen from the store at the fort? Ah, money in iron box. Him saying, this must be it. Jim Wade told us Sage cannot steal it.

[Narrator]

What we do?

[Lone Ranger]

Kimasabi. We'll take it with us. We must go to Gannett's widow at once. Cover these men with blankets. Then we'll break the news to Mrs. Gannis and take her to the fort. Send soldiers for these men.

[Narrator]

Elsie Gannett stood in the doorway of the sod house with a buffalo gun in her hands. She leveled it at the Lone Ranger and Toto as they drew rein and dismounted.

[Tonto]

You get back on your horses and clear out of here.

[Lone Ranger]

Mrs. Janice, we've brought bad news. Your husband and his brother have been killed by Indians.

[Tonto]

I don't believe you.

[Lone Ranger]

Otto and I found their bodies about four miles from here. Now you must go with us to the fort. The Indians are Out to kill every white person they find.

[Tonto]

No, I won't go with you. It's a trick of some kind. Get out of here or I'll use this buffalo gun.

[Lone Ranger]

I made the box, Toto. You get it from saddlebag. Here. Box.

[Tonto]

Where did you get that box?

[Lone Ranger]

Your husband had just dug it up from underneath an elm tree when he was killed by the Indians.

[Tonto]

I know you're lying.

[Lone Ranger]

I see you recognize the box.

[Tonto]

Of course I do. It was stolen from my father's store at the ford.

[Lone Ranger]

Jim Wade told me this morning that he believes Sage Gannett had stolen it.

[Tonto]

Jim Wade? What do you know about him?

[Lone Ranger]

I'll explain everything. Then perhaps you.

[Narrator]

Malone Ranger told how he and Tottle would save Jim Wade from being killed and what Wade had told them about his suspicion of the buffalo hunter. When he had finished, Elsie Gannett lowered the muzzle of the buffalo gun and broke into tears.

[Tonto]

I believe you. I'll do as you say. I'll go with you.

[Lone Ranger]

I hope you'd understand.

[Tonto]

I'll get my belongings together. It won't take long.

[Lone Ranger]

T. There's a horse in the corral. Saddle it while I help Mrs. Gather her things. Ah, me do it. Me take Silver and Scout and give them water. Them plenty thirsty. Come, Silver. Come, scout. Come. Hurry, Mrs. Ganet. We must leave here as soon as possible.

[Tonto]

Jake, I'm ready to go now.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll carry the valise for you.

[Tonto]

Thank you.

[Lone Ranger]

Let's join Potto.

[Tonto]

Indians.

[Lone Ranger]

Wait. Keep out of the doorway.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger pushed Elsie Janet to the side.

[Lone Ranger]

Then he.

[Narrator]

He too ducked back from the door and drew his guns. He shouted to Toto. There was no reply from Toto. But the other Indians were coming closer. The Lone Ranger holstered one of his guns, reached quickly for the heavy door and slammed it shut. He dropped the heavy bar into place, then turned to face Elsie Gannett in the darkness of the dugout.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll light a candle so we can see.

[Tonto]

Here's one on the table.

[Lone Ranger]

There. Now, how much ammunition have you for that buffalo gun?

[Tonto]

There it is on the shelf.

[Lone Ranger]

Only one box.

[Tonto]

That's all. Stage you plan to go to the fort tomorrow for more.

[Lone Ranger]

That won't last long, I'm afraid.

[Tonto]

What's that?

[Lone Ranger]

Trying to pound down the door with heavy timber. Let me have the buffalo gun.

[Tonto]

There's a firing slit in the door. You can shoot through that.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, I noticed it.

[Tonto]

Hurry. They'll knock the door down.

[Lone Ranger]

I can stop that.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger walked to the door and carefully slid back the COVID over the firing slit. He poked the muzzle of the heavy buffalo gun through and fired.

[Lone Ranger]

That will stop them temporarily. They'll try it again.

[Narrator]

Time after time the Indians tried to pound down the door of a windowless sod house with a battering ram. And each time the heavy buffalo gun took its soul and drove the redskins back. Minutes turned into hours and around midnight the Lone Ranger heard stealthy footsteps on the sod roof.

[Lone Ranger]

They're on the roof.

[Tonto]

Look. They're breaking through with a pain.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll use my six guns and back.

[Tonto]

Oh, hurry. You're breaking through. Through.

[Narrator]

The masked man's gunfire drove the Indians off the roof, but only for a few moments. They soon returned. They were driven off a second time by the deadly fire of balloon ranger gun. They returned again and yet again. Meanwhile, the savages renewed their attacks on the door, only to be met by the fire of a buffalo gun. Finally it was quiet outside the sod house and Elsie Gannett, her nerves taut and tingling with fear, sat down in a crude chair and buried her face in her arms.

[Tonto]

Oh, why did I do it? Why did I do it? Poor Jimmy. He'll never know.

[Lone Ranger]

Sitting now, Elsie, they will be breaking. The Indians will soon make another effort to crash the dugout.

[Tonto]

Here they come.

[Narrator]

Once again the Indian civilians charged the heavy door of the dugout and the buffalo gun roared a deadly requiem.

[Lone Ranger]

They were through to safety.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger tossed the weapon to a corner.

[Lone Ranger]

It's useless now.

[Tonto]

Useless.

[Lone Ranger]

The ammunition is gone. I fired the last round.

[Tonto]

But you have your sidearms.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. One for you and one for myself. Take this one.

[Tonto]

But you can handle it better than I.

[Lone Ranger]

There's only one shell left in the chamber.

[Tonto]

1.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm killed when they break down the door. Don't be taking along, you understand?

[Tonto]

Yes, I understand. Listen. War cry. They're coming this way.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. They're making an all out attack.

[Tonto]

This is the end.

[Lone Ranger]

I still have six shots in my gun. I'll make every one count. The back in the corner while I open the door.

[Narrator]

At the heavy bar and opened the door cautiously for the six gun gripped in his right hand. The Indians were coming like an army, riding hard and waving weapons as they shouted wild cries.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll let them get closer before I fire.

[Narrator]

The last man waited and watched the savage charging horde. And then a new sound came above the war cries and the thunder of hoofs. At first the Lone Ranger thought the bugle was a figment of imagination. Then he heard it nearer and at the same moment saw horsemen approaching from another direction. These newcomers were no painted savages they were men in uniform, hard riding troopers who opened fire with carbines.

[Lone Ranger]

Look over there, Elsie.

[Narrator]

The army.

[Lone Ranger]

The trooper from Fort Mason.

[Tonto]

The Indians are turning. They're turning to the side. They're running away.

[Lone Ranger]

Did you see those men riding with the leading troopers?

[Tonto]

One's an Indian, Otto.

[Lone Ranger]

He's alive.

[Tonto]

Your friend.

[Lone Ranger]

He must have gone for the troopers.

[Tonto]

That other man, the one with the bandaged shoulder.

[Narrator]

But Jim.

[Lone Ranger]

Wayne. Need.

[Narrator]

While the troopers raced on in pursuit of the fleeing Indians, Toto and Jim Wade cut away from the uniformed men and rode to the door of the sod house. Balloon Ranger and Elsie stepped out to meet them.

[Lone Ranger]

Gene. Elsie, you're safe. That's all that counts now. Tano told me about the money.

[Tonto]

But Jim, can you ever forgive me?

[Lone Ranger]

I never lost faith, Elsie. I knew that someday I'd prove my innocence. Thanks to the masked man, I have. Jim. I see you have your insignia back. Yes, and next week it'll be captain's bars, you'll see on my shoulder. And Tano came into the fort and told what had happened. Colonel Nelson restored me to rank. Next week I get a captaincy. Here's Silver Kimakami. Good.

[Tonto]

We'll never be able to repay you and Tondo for all you've done.

[Lone Ranger]

Enjoy your happiness, Elsie. Jim, you'd better wait here until the troopers return. Oh, you'll wait with me, won't you? Oh, our work here is done, Tallow. And I must be going. I want to replenish my supply of cartridges. Come, Tallow. Easy. Steady, big fellow. Bye.

[Tonto]

Goodbye and thank you.

[Lone Ranger]

Good luck and adios.

[Tonto]

Jim.

[Lone Ranger]

Jim.

[Tonto]

I'd give anything to know who that masked man is.

[Lone Ranger]

I can only tell you what Colonel Nelson told me. He's the Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger, a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, is produced by Kendall Campbell Muir Incorporated. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer, your announcer, Fred Coy.

[Lone Ranger]

Listen to the Lone Ranger brought to.

[Narrator]

You by Special Recording at this same time.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank 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.