
Original Air Date: January 03, 1951Host: Andrew RhynesShow: The Lone RangerPhone: (707) 98 OTRDW (6-8739) Stars:• Brace Beemer (Lone Ranger)• John Todd (Tonto) Writer:• Fran Striker Producer:• George W. Trendle Music:• Ben Bonnell Exit music from: Roun...
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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
A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high. O Silver the Lone Ranger. With this faithful Indian companion Tottle, 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 the greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.
Let's go, big fellow. Are you still? Hurry.
At the territorial prison, two men stood together for a moment inside one of the cells. As they stood near the cell door, staring down the long corridor, one of them was saying, you'll be getting out.
Sam Pierce
In two weeks, Ken. You'll find me waiting outside with a gun and a horse for you.
Ken Saybrook
Gosh, Sam, that'll be great. Those things cost dough.
Sam Pierce
Forget that fella. I'm sure Harry Congers will be glad to let you have him after I tell him about you, that you want to join his gang.
Ken Saybrook
I've heard a lot about Harry Congers.
Sam Pierce
So is everybody else in Texas. I reckon he's plenty smart. And you will be able to have a pot pile of cash stowed away before long if you spring along with his gang.
Ken Saybrook
Better keep quiet. Here comes the card. Yeah.
Sam Pierce
This is where I leave you, Ken. But it won't be for long.
Harry Congers
Well, from now on, you'll be Sam Pierce again instead of a number.
Narrator
Come on.
Sam Pierce
All right, all right. So long, Ken. You've been a good cellmate, and I hope we meet again sometime.
Ken Saybrook
Thanks, Sam. Good luck.
Harry Congers
Ken Sabrook will be getting out himself in a couple of weeks.
Narrator
And I bet he hopes you don't.
Harry Congers
Meet again under the same conditions.
Narrator
Let's get going.
Harry Congers
P.
Narrator
Two weeks later, Ken Saybrook, looking older than his 22 years, left territorial prison and found Sam Pierce waiting in a grove a short distance away.
Sam Pierce
Hey, Ken. Over here.
Ken Saybrook
Sam, you did remember?
Sam Pierce
Sure. I got Harry Conger to let me bring you a gun and a Bron tool. Neither one cost him anything anyway. Here's the shooting iron.
Ken Saybrook
Thanks. How far do we have to ride to get to the gang's hideout?
Sam Pierce
Oh, about 30 miles or so. Hit leather, fella. Let's get moving.
Ken Saybrook
Sure. Easy. Get up.
Sam Pierce
Get up. I been thinking, Ken. Are you sure you want to join Congress Gang?
Ken Saybrook
Sure. What makes you ask that, Sam?
Sam Pierce
Well, when I suggested you join the gang, I didn't know you as well as I do now.
Ken Saybrook
You mean you think I couldn't be trusted?
Sam Pierce
Oh, I didn't say that. Anyway, Harry Congers never trusts any owl hood. He makes sure none of them in the gang could double cross him by making him pull an open face job before they really get to be with the gang.
Ken Saybrook
What do you mean by an open face job?
Sam Pierce
Like holding up somebody without wearing a mask of any kind. Course, in your case, Congress is accepting you because of your prison record. Along with my say so.
Ken Saybrook
I see. How come you think maybe I've changed my mind about joining with him?
Sam Pierce
I know you haven't changed your mind, Ken. I was just sort of hoping you would, that's all.
Ken Saybrook
I reckon I don't savvy what you're driving at.
Sam Pierce
Tain't for me to say or to go in for any preaching. But you're young. You had the chance to make a fresh start. You could go away, maybe to Arizona or Colorado Territory where nobody'd find out about your past.
Ken Saybrook
What about yourself, Sam? You've just finished a long term in prison, so you're paid up as far as the law is concerned until you pull another job with the gang.
Sam Pierce
I've thought about it, Ken. Especially since there hadn't been any killings by Conger's gang at the time I was caught and sentenced. Of course, any of the gang who's caught these days will hang for the killings they've done recently.
Ken Saybrook
That's not so good, right?
Sam Pierce
It isn't. But Congers expected me to come back to the gang. When I got out, he had one of the men waiting for me. Just like I was waiting for you.
Narrator
Nope.
Sam Pierce
I reckon I'd be a dead duck if I tried to run out on Harry Congers.
Ken Saybrook
Now, he must be plenty mean.
Sam Pierce
He's meaner than a rat that's been stepped on at times. Now, in your case, Harry's never seen you, so if you decided not to go through with joining.
Ken Saybrook
I said I'd join the gang, Sam, so that's what I'll do. I want quick cash and that's the way to get it.
Sam Pierce
Well, after all, I'm to blame for talking into it in the first place. Let's get a move on, Ken. We have a long way to go yet.
Ken Saybrook
Get up there. Get up.
Narrator
After an uneventful trip, Ken and his former cellmate followed A narrow, rocky trail down into a secluded hollow. Large boulders bordered the trail. Suddenly, a horseman with ready gun moved out from behind one of them.
Sam Pierce
Hi, Sid. I've been expecting somebody to stop us somewhere along here.
Sid
Ah, it's you, Sam. Is that the new fellow you're supposed to be bringing to join the gang?
Sam Pierce
Yep, this is him. Sid, meet Ken.
Ken Saybrook
Howdy, Sid.
Sid
Howdy. Looks more like he'd be a preacher than an owl hoot.
Ken Saybrook
Thanks. We can't all look the part like you do, Sid.
Sid
Listen, you don't try it.
Sam Pierce
See that, Sid? That's plenty fast on the draw. Goes to show you can't judge by looks.
Sid
Yeah, he's fast on the draw. I admit I don't like the smart talk he gives out with.
Ken Saybrook
I'm not looking for trouble. You started it.
Sam Pierce
That's right, Sid.
Sid
Yeah, maybe I did it. There. You better get going. Harry's waiting to meet the new fellow.
Sam Pierce
Right. Let's go again.
Ken Saybrook
Get up. Come on.
Narrator
Boy.
Sam Pierce
You sure took Sid by surprise with that fast draw, Ken. Fact is, I was sort of surprised myself. Didn't expect you were that handy with a gun.
Ken Saybrook
In the business I'm going into, an hombre has to be handy with a gun, Sam.
Sam Pierce
Yeah, I reckon you're right about that. Sure you don't want to think over with.
Ken Saybrook
We're almost at the camp, Sam. Better we don't talk about that anymore.
Sam Pierce
Yeah, sure. Congers has his headquarters in that shack just ahead there. In a couple of minutes, you'll be right in there talking to him.
Ken Saybrook
I'm anxious to meet the outlaw leader I've heard so much about.
Sam Pierce
Well, here we are.
Narrator
Oh.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, there. Oh, boy.
Sam Pierce
Let's go in.
Ken Saybrook
I'm ready. Music.
Narrator
Come on.
Harry Congers
Howdy, Sam. I figure this must be that outbreak Ken you told me about.
Sam Pierce
Yep. This is Ken Saybrook, Harry.
Ken Saybrook
Hi, Congers. I've heard a lot about you. I've sure been anxious to come here to meet you.
Harry Congers
Yeah, Sam told me you wanted to join my gang, but I sort of figured you were older than you are.
Ken Saybrook
What difference does it make?
Harry Congers
None. None at all. Now, what were you sent to prison for, Saybrook?
Ken Saybrook
I held up the express office in Hallville, a town up near the New Mexico border. Couple of Texas Rangers trailed me and caught up with me.
Harry Congers
Must have been your first job.
Ken Saybrook
It was.
Harry Congers
You didn't play it smart. Better to start off with a well organized gang like mine.
Ken Saybrook
I reckon so.
Harry Congers
Yeah, Sam will show you what a bunk. Say, Brooke, get some grub and some rest. I'll See you later.
Ken Saybrook
All right.
Sam Pierce
Come on, Ken. I'll show you where to bunk.
Narrator
That afternoon, the Lone Ranger and Totto rode the trail near the town of Millbank. The Lone Ranger was talking as they moved leisurely along.
The last news of Harry Conger's and his gang came from down this way. Toto, you think Congers gang still in.
Ken Saybrook
Territory near Millbank, Kimasabe?
Narrator
That's what we're here to find out. That gang must be stopped. I heard the Texas Rangers consider it to be the most vicious gang in the Southwest territory.
Ken Saybrook
Kill many people.
Narrator
When Congers and his gang are caught, every one of them will hang. We'll spend a few days camped in this territory. Tano want to be sure that gang doesn't have its hideout near Millbank before we look elsewhere. Let's find a campsite before sunset.
That evening, Harry Congers had another talk with Sam and Ken in the gang's headquarters shack.
Harry Congers
Harry was saying, you're not known down in this territory. Say, Brooks, there's something I want you to do.
Ken Saybrook
What is it?
Sam Pierce
I thought you said he wouldn't have to pull a job alone, Harry.
Harry Congers
I'm not having him pull a job, Sam. But he can help get the next job lined up right.
Sam Pierce
What is the next job?
Harry Congers
You figure CY Deming owns the biggest spread around here, the Circle D. Yeah, I know.
Ken Saybrook
I've heard of the Circle D spread.
Harry Congers
Deming and his men drove a big herd to the railroad. He'll get paid off in cash, and you'll bring it back with him.
Sam Pierce
You wouldn't have a chance of waylaying him with all of his cowpokes riding back with him.
Harry Congers
I'm not that stupid, Sam. What I want Saybrook to do is to ride over to the Circle D like he's a stranger asking his way or wanting water or something.
Ken Saybrook
Then what?
Harry Congers
Wanna find out when old Deming is expected back? I understand he drove about a thousand head of longhorns. At 15 or $20 a head, that'll come to a nice pile of dough.
Sam Pierce
Yeah, it would.
Ken Saybrook
But like I said, Alyssa, the bank.
Harry Congers
In town isn't a large one. If I know when Deming will be back, I'll know he'll put that money in the bank. Then we'll rob the bank. Grabbing that cash and all the rest. We can lay our mitzer.
Narrator
After the talk with Congers, Ken Sabrook left the gang's hideout and rode to the Circle D ranch. He dismounted in front of the ranch house.
Oh, ho, boy.
Ken Saybrook
Good evening, ma' am.
Mary Deming
Good evening. What Is it you want?
Ken Saybrook
I'm a stranger in this territory, and I'd like to get some information, if you don't mind.
Mary Deming
Won't you step inside a moment?
Ken Saybrook
Don't mind if I do. Thanks.
Mary Deming
Now, what is it you want to know?
Ken Saybrook
Am I on the right trail to Milbank?
Mary Deming
Miss, I'm Mary Deming. Yes, the trail out there does lead to Millbank. Have you come far?
Ken Saybrook
Quite a distance, Ms. Demming. I. I came up this way to take on a new job.
Mary Deming
Oh, I see. For a moment, I wondered if you were looking for work. Dad's away right now, but he did say he could use some more help before he left.
Ken Saybrook
I've heard of the Circle D spread. Saw the shingle out at the entrance with your brand on it.
Mary Deming
Why, I didn't know our ranch was so well known.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, but it is. Must be a fine place to work.
Mary Deming
Everyone seems satisfied here.
Ken Saybrook
Anyway, maybe I might decide to make a change after I've tried the job I'm going to. When do you expect your father to come back?
Mary Deming
Dad went with some of the men on a cattle drive to the railroad. He expects to get set back sometime tomorrow.
Ken Saybrook
Tomorrow?
Mary Deming
Yes. Oh, I'm not very hospitable to a stranger. Won't you sit down, and I'll have the cook bring something to eat. If you've been traveling all day, you must be starved.
Ken Saybrook
Gosh, Ms. Deming, that's mighty nice of you to think of that, but. Well, I stopped at a place a few miles from here, and folks there gave me food. Thanks just the same.
Mary Deming
Well, when you come back for that job with dad, I'll expect you to eat with us so you'll be sure you're hungry.
Ken Saybrook
But I didn't say I was definitely coming back. I said if the job I was going to didn't pan out.
Mary Deming
I'm sure you'd like working here better, Mr. Saybrook.
Ken Saybrook
Ken Saybrook.
Mary Deming
I like that name, Ken.
Ken Saybrook
Gosh. Do you? Oh, by golly, when your father does get back, I. Well, maybe I'll see you again. I have to leave now.
Mary Deming
All right.
Ken Saybrook
Goodbye, Miss Demi.
Mary Deming
Goodbye, Ken.
Ken Saybrook
Great day. I didn't expect to run into a fine girl like that. I wouldn't be good minded.
Narrator
No.
Ken Saybrook
Have to go through with it. Have to stay with Harry Conger's gang. Easy, boy. Get up.
Narrator
The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger adventure. Before the next exciting scenes, please permit us to pause for just a few moments.
Ram.
Now to continue. As he left the Circle D ranch, Ken Saybrook. Was troubled by Mary Deming's beauty and friendliness. But he was determined to forget about her and go on with his plans. Meantime, the Lone Ranger and Toto had left their camp and rode toward town. In the moonlight, they were following the trail along the boundary of the circle D spread. As they rounded a bend, they came face to face with Ken Sabrook. The three men simultaneously reined to a stop.
Ken Saybrook
Masked man and an Indian.
Narrator
No need to draw your gun. We're not outlaws.
Ken Saybrook
That right? I'm riding on, and you better not try to stop me.
Narrator
We have no intention of stopping you.
Ken Saybrook
Someone else may be watching us right now, so you'd better be careful. If you try to trail me, you may run into something you don't expect. Get up there. It's easy for us to shoot him as him rode way.
Narrator
Yes, I know. Let's ride on. Come on. Get him up.
Ken Saybrook
Scout. Why you think him talk and act like that?
Narrator
I sensed something behind it all. Toto. He knew we could have shot him, yet he rode on without looking back.
Ken Saybrook
Isn't that right?
Narrator
What he said about someone else watching gave me the idea he might have thought he was followed.
Ken Saybrook
Ah, but we not see anyone else.
Narrator
I have a feeling he knew who we are. What he said about not trailing him or we'd run into something we didn't expect struck me as a hint that he wanted us to follow him.
Ken Saybrook
We think you're right, kimosabe. We think him know us. That only reason he act that way and take chance.
Narrator
We'll turn around and go back. Karo fellow.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, we maybe trail feller.
Narrator
When someone threatens me to keep me from doing something, there's usually a big reason behind it. We'll try to pick up that man's trail. One, two.
Somebody had been watching from a nearby arroyo. And as the masked man and Indian stopped and rode back, a horseman left the arroyo after they went around the bend and rode along a nearby branch trail. The outlaw Sid, who had been sent out to follow and watch Ken, reached the secluded hideout. Before Ken did, Sid rained to a fast stop at the shack.
Ho. Ho, there. Ho.
Harry Congers
What's the hurry, Sid find out something about the new fella?
Sid
Yeah, I trailed him like you said, Harry. He went to the circle D and he came out and started back by the regular trail. I rode near oil to keep out of sight.
Harry Congers
Yeah. Where is he now? What happened?
Sid
He's coming. He should be here almost any minute. I took a shortcut. Back on the trail, he met two hombres. One of them was Masked. The other was an Indian. Moon was bright enough for me to see him clearly.
Harry Congers
Well, what of it?
Ken Saybrook
Saybrook got scared.
Sid
Looked like he threatened him with his gun. And he said something about they better not try anything follow him or they'd run into trouble. And he rode past them and headed for here.
Harry Congers
He's lucky they didn't blast him.
Sid
Sure, but I know why they did marry. He must have got suspicious, so they turned around and started to trail him. You see, that Mas hombre is the one you've been warned about.
Narrator
Lone Ranger.
Sid
Yeah, I'm sure of it. They were talking loud. I heard him say he wasn't an outlaw. And when he started his horse, he called him Silver. And that horse was a big white stallion.
Harry Congers
I can't figure why they got suspicious of Sabrook.
Sid
Because he acted so scared, I reckon. Anyway, I saw him turn around, start following.
Harry Congers
Well, maybe it's a good thing they did go up the trail and tell Wes not to stop him. I'll get the others here. In fact, you better have Wes come here to the shack too.
Sid
What are you gonna do?
Harry Congers
Let Ken Saybrook be the bait to bring him here to the shack. Then we'll jump that masked man and Indian once they're inside. Now get.
Narrator
The outlaws quickly gathered in the shack and received their instructions.
Harry Congers
Now, you know what you're to do. Wes, you take two of the men, go to the boulders where the trail comes into the hollow. Don't bother, Saybrook. Watch for the other two. They'll probably dismount, try to sneak down to the shack on foot. Get the drop on them. Bring them in here. All right, boss. I'll take Joe and Dave with me. Let's go, fellas.
Sam Pierce
What are you gonna do after you get him inside here?
Harry Congers
Give me your bullet and bury him six feet under that new fella. Saybrook doesn't know the favor he's doing us. The first night he's with us. Now all we have to do is wait. He should be coming any minute.
Sam Pierce
There's Ken now. Wait till he finds out what Sid told you.
Ken Saybrook
Hi, Congers. Hi, Sam.
Harry Congers
How'd you make out, Saybrook?
Ken Saybrook
All right. Find out. Deming's expected sometime tomorrow.
Sam Pierce
Anything happen on the way back, Ken?
Ken Saybrook
Yeah. I thought I was gonna have a run in with a couple of hombres that looked like owl hoots, but I bluffed them and got away all right.
Harry Congers
Well, good for you. Say, Brook, now sit down. We'll all talk about that back job.
Narrator
Shortly after Ken arrived, the Lone Ranger and Tahoe moved down the rocky trail toward the hollow. As they reached the entrance to the hollow, Silver whinnied a warning.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, Silver could warn him.
Narrator
Yes, but they're in the hollow, the shack and a few tents. Silver must have caught the scent of the men there.
Harry Congers
Ah, and what we do?
Narrator
We'll dismount and investigate that shack. Easy city.
Ken Saybrook
Bigfoot, I see horse out front.
Narrator
That's probably the one the man we followed was riding. Come on.
Harry Congers
Reach.
Ken Saybrook
Bo Deal.
Sam Pierce
We got you covered from behind these bolts.
Narrator
Yeah, we came into a trap. Better do as he says. All right, we're reaching.
Harry Congers
These are the two we were expecting. All right, both of you keep your.
Sam Pierce
Hands high and walk to that shack.
Harry Congers
Now get moving.
Narrator
The boss is all ready to receive both here. Nice of you to let one of our boys lead you here.
Harry Congers
All around.
Ken Saybrook
Trail trick us.
Narrator
Look like we asked for it. Gone inside. Well, look who's here, boys.
Harry Congers
You all heard of the masked man and Indian who've been on our trail?
Narrator
You must be Harry Congers, right?
Harry Congers
We know you. We're seven or two. Mister. You don't have a chance.
Sam Pierce
I've sure heard a lot about that hombre. Haven't we all?
Harry Congers
Now, I'll take your guns and then unmask you, mister. After that, we're gonna let you run out the door. Both of you. We'll have two good targets for a little practicing. Wes, you and the other two get around in front of him. I got him covered with my gun. Right, boss.
Narrator
As Wes and the other two stepped around the Lone Ranger and Tonto and joined the others, Ken and Sam nonchalantly moved one to each side of the shack. Then they suddenly drew their guns. Ken spoke.
Ken Saybrook
Don't anybody move.
Narrator
Hey.
Ken Saybrook
Wham. And I got you covered.
Narrator
As Harry turned momentarily to look in amazement at Ken, the Lone Ranger and Tonto grabbed their guns.
Now we're four to five. Congers. We seem to have found friends here. Sam, what the devil goes on? Why do you.
Sam Pierce
It's Ken's idea and I'm with him. Harry, I don't pull anything.
Harry Congers
I'll fix that new fellow.
Narrator
Don't try it. The rest of you, drop your guns. Not me.
I can't show you.
Hey.
Harry Congers
Now we're three against four.
Sam Pierce
We better drop the guns.
Narrator
Pick up their guns. Tutto me get em. By thunder, I don't know why Ken.
Sam Pierce
Wanted it like this, but when he whispered to me what to do, I just did it.
Ken Saybrook
I'm glad you played along with me, Sam. I knew who the masked man and Indian were. When I met them, I purposely wanted them to follow me. I figured Sid or someone had trailed me and might be nearby.
Narrator
Just why did you do it, Ken?
Ken Saybrook
Because it's my job. Just as you've made it yours to catch crooks and killers. I'm Ken Sabrook of the Texas Rangers.
Sam Pierce
Excuse me, but you were in prison with me.
Ken Saybrook
That was all planned, Sam. Now we can be friends and you can go straight. Forget I was a cellmate.
Narrator
Ken, you've done a good job.
Ken Saybrook
Thanks. Without you, it might have ended differently. If you and Tana will help me get these men to town, there's something else I want to do. Get Sam a good job.
Narrator
What? Now, hold on, Ken. Sam, it looks as though you're taking orders from the Texas Rangers these days. Let's start for town with these crooks.
The following day, Ken, Sam, the Lone Ranger and Toto stopped at the entrance to the Circle D ranch. After a few words, the Lone Ranger and Toto waited while Ken and Sam rode to the ranch house and dismounted.
Ken Saybrook
Well, what do you want, young fellow?
Mary Deming
Dad, that's the young man I told you about.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, it is, is it? I understand you might need a good ranch hand, Mr. Deming.
Mary Deming
Of course he does.
Ken Saybrook
Seems like I do, according to my daughter. Fine. You have a job, Sam.
Sam Pierce
Hey, that's darn nice of you folks.
Mary Deming
Yes, sir, but I thought. Well, Mr. Sabrook, can. I thought you.
Ken Saybrook
Oh, I have a good job. You see my badge? Texas Ranger. Well, what do you know?
Sam Pierce
Yep, and a darned good one. He and his friends at Mask man and Indian waiting out there. Caught the Congers gang last night and saved your cattle money to boot.
Mary Deming
I don't understand all this.
Sam Pierce
And they figured on robbing the town bank tonight.
Ken Saybrook
Who?
Mary Deming
That masked man and Indian?
Sam Pierce
No, no, the Congers gang.
Mary Deming
Why didn't you tell me last night, Ken, that you. Well, I. I did think you wanted the job here.
Ken Saybrook
Well, looks like you'll have to get along with this old codier. What's his name?
Sam Pierce
Name's Sam. And I'm not an old codier.
Ken Saybrook
Mr. Sam's a fine man, Mr. Deming. I know he'll make good. But that masked man out there. What is all this, anyway? I'll be back later to explain it all more fully, if Mary doesn't mind.
Mary Deming
Then you'll come for dinner?
Ken Saybrook
I sure would like to, Mary. I'll ride a ways with my friends and I'll come back. Yeah. Looks like your friends are getting ready.
Sam Pierce
To ride away now.
Ken Saybrook
They're waving their hats at us.
Sam Pierce
Well, that means they think Ken ought to stay right here while he's got the chance. Yep, that masked man sure smart to the ways of the world.
Mary Deming
At least he seems to understand what Ken should do better than Ken does himself. Who is that masked man anyway?
Ken Saybrook
He's an hombre every Texas Ranger hopes to be like someday. Mary he's the Lone Ranger.
Narrator
This is a feature of the Lord Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Enterprises, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer.
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.
Narrator
Become one.
Andrew Rines
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Narrator
Sam.
Episode Overview
In the episode titled "Cell Mate," part of the classic "The Lone Ranger" series, listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of the early Western United States. This digitally restored installment, meticulously enhanced by host Andrew Rhynes, brings to life the timeless struggle between lawmen and outlaws with unprecedented audio clarity. The story weaves themes of loyalty, redemption, and justice as it unfolds the tale of Ken Saybrook and his unexpected alliance with the legendary Lone Ranger.
Plot Summary
The narrative begins in a territorial prison where Ken Saybrook and his cellmate, Sam Pierce, engage in a candid conversation about their futures. At [00:04:04], Sam reveals his plan to escape and warns Ken about their ruthless leader, Harry Congers, emphasizing the peril of betraying the gang:
Sam Pierce [03:25]: "In two weeks, Ken. You'll find me waiting outside with a gun and a horse for you."
As the two men are released, Sam persuades Ken to join Congers' gang, painting it as a lucrative opportunity. However, Ken harbors doubts about his path, leading to a critical encounter at the Circle D ranch with Mary Deming. Their interaction is a subtle foreshadowing of Ken's true intentions:
Mary Deming [12:44]: "I like that name, Ken."
Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Toto, are on the trail of Congers' gang. The tension escalates when they cross paths with Ken and Sam, leading to a strategic confrontation. Ken's true identity as a Texas Ranger is revealed in a dramatic twist:
Ken Saybrook [24:36]: "Because it's my job. Just as you've made it yours to catch crooks and killers. I'm Ken Saybrook of the Texas Rangers."
This revelation shifts the dynamic, turning former cellmates into allies. Together with the Lone Ranger, they orchestrate the capture of Congers' gang, ensuring justice is served. The episode concludes with the Lone Ranger solidifying his role as a beacon of hope and integrity in the Wild West.
Character Dynamics
Ken Saybrook: Initially portrayed as an opportunistic ex-con, Ken's character arc transforms as his allegiance shifts from the gang to the Texas Rangers. His pragmatic approach to survival and eventual commitment to justice highlight his depth and complexity.
Sam Pierce: Ken's cellmate represents the lure of criminal life versus the possibility of redemption. His internal conflict and ultimate cooperation with Ken underscore the theme of transformation.
Harry Congers: As the antagonist, Congers embodies the menace of unchecked outlawry. His interactions with Ken and Sam showcase his manipulative and ruthless nature.
Mary Deming: Serving as a pivotal character, Mary's interactions with Ken add a layer of personal conflict and emotional depth, influencing Ken's decisions.
The Lone Ranger & Toto: Vigilant and unwavering, their pursuit of justice complements Ken's mission, culminating in a powerful alliance against evil.
Notable Quotes and Moments
At [05:08], Ken questions Sam's intentions, revealing his internal struggle:
Ken Saybrook: "Sure. What makes you ask that, Sam?"
During their treacherous journey, Sam expresses concern over the gang's deadly reputation:
Sam Pierce [06:18]: "I've thought about it, Ken. Especially since there hadn't been any killings by Conger's gang at the time I was caught and sentenced."
The pivotal moment of revelation comes when Ken discloses his true identity to Congers:
Ken Saybrook [24:36]: "Because it's my job. Just as you've made it yours to catch crooks and killers. I'm Ken Saybrook of the Texas Rangers."
The Lone Ranger's recognition of Ken solidifies their partnership:
Lone Ranger [23:36]: "Mister, you don't have a chance."
Audio and Restoration Quality
Andrew Rhynes, the host, emphasizes the podcast's commitment to high-quality audio restoration. The episode showcases enhanced soundscapes—from the creak of a saloon door to the thundering hooves of horses—providing an immersive listening experience that surpasses the original recordings. This meticulous attention to detail allows listeners to fully engage with the dramatic tension and action sequences, making the classic Western tales resonate with contemporary audiences.
Conclusion
"Cell Mate | The Lone Ranger" is a compelling episode that masterfully blends classic Western storytelling with modern audio restoration techniques. Through its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and strategic use of sound, the episode not only pays homage to iconic shows like "Gunsmoke" and "The Lone Ranger" but also reinvigorates them for a new generation of listeners. The themes of redemption, justice, and the fight between good and evil are timelessly portrayed, making this installment a standout in the "Old Time Radio Westerns" series.
Listeners unfamiliar with the episode will find this summary serves as a comprehensive guide, capturing the essence and excitement of the adventure. Whether revisiting cherished classics or discovering them anew, "Cell Mate" offers a rich and engaging experience that honors the golden age of Western radio drama.
Sam Pierce [03:25]: "In two weeks, Ken. You'll find me waiting outside with a gun and a horse for you."
Mary Deming [12:44]: "I like that name, Ken."
Ken Saybrook [24:36]: "Because it's my job. Just as you've made it yours to catch crooks and killers. I'm Ken Saybrook of the Texas Rangers."
These moments are pivotal in understanding character motivations and the unfolding of the plot, highlighting the episode's depth and dramatic flair.