Cloudy Waters | The Lone Ranger (03-13-42)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: "Cloudy Waters" | The Lone Ranger (03-13-42)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode: Cloudy Waters | The Lone Ranger
Date: February 11, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of the "Old Time Radio Westerns" podcast features a digitally restored rendition of "Cloudy Waters," a classic Lone Ranger drama from 1942. In this story, the Lone Ranger and his steadfast companion Tonto set out to expose the criminal acts of Benjamin Steel, the powerful and ruthless rancher dominating Tomahawk Basin. Amid cattle country rivalries and schemes to poison scarce water sources, the masked hero battles injustice with courage and integrity, ultimately restoring hope to beleaguered ranchers.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Introduction of the Conflict and the Villain (02:54–06:34)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto are camped near Tomahawk Basin, gathering evidence against Benjamin Steel, who is suspected of criminal activity.
• A tense confrontation occurs when Steel himself approaches, brazen and unafraid, knowing there’s no proof against him.
• Steel tries to intimidate the Lone Ranger, warning, “If you try to stop me, you’ll end up six feet underground in your grave.” (05:27)

Quote:

“You’re the coolest hombre I ever met outside of myself.”
— Benjamin Steel (04:11)

2. Poisoned Waterhole: Suspicion and Accusations (07:04–11:13)

• Mr. Carey and his daughter Abby, soon joined by ranch hand Ted Bailey, discover a waterhole has been poisoned—saved from drinking only by the Lone Ranger’s intervention.
• The blame is tossed between the parties, but clear evidence is shown when Tonto produces a dead jackrabbit from the water’s edge.
• Mr. Carey, despairing over lost water for his cattle, contemplates accepting Steel’s offer to buy them out.

Quote:

“If you’d taken a drink of that water, you wouldn’t be working for Steel much longer. The water’s poisoned.”
— The Lone Ranger (08:53)

3. Steel’s Manipulation and Mr. Carey’s Temptation to Sell (11:45–15:02)

• Steel feigns sympathy and renews his offer to buy Carey’s ranch, using the poisoned water as leverage.
• The Lone Ranger intervenes just as Carey is about to sign, smashing the inkwell and halting the deal.
• Steel storms off, his scheme momentarily thwarted.

Notable Moment:

“There’s a pen dipped right in the ink well. What the—the masked man put a smash—the inkwell’s ink all over the bill of sale!”
— Benjamin Steel (14:30)

4. Desperation and Divided Loyalties (16:13–17:56)

• After the confrontation, Carey pushes away the Lone Ranger, angry but conflicted.
• Despite Carey’s resistance, the Lone Ranger resolves to help him regardless—recognizing Steel’s cunning.

Quote:

“We may not corner Steel, but at least we can try and save Carey. He’s mad like crazy buffalo. And we’ll help him in spite of himself.”
— The Lone Ranger (17:31)

5. The Impostor Plot and a New Danger (18:02–22:25)

• Steel and his foreman Breed conspire to further frame the Lone Ranger by poisoning another waterhole and sending an impostor (in mask and white horse) to be seen riding away.
• Ted Bailey is manipulated into delivering the message that Carey can free graze his cows at Steel’s waterhole, not knowing the deadly setup.

Quote:

“We can use Ted Bailey. You listen now. I tell you...”
— Breed, plotting with Steel (19:20)

6. Ted’s Good News, Romance, and the Poison Trap (22:25–24:01)

• Ted delivers Steel’s “generous” message to Carey, who is grateful for the apparent act of neighborliness.
• Abby and Ted’s relationship sweetens, culminating in Ted’s proposal and Abby’s acceptance as they herd the cattle toward the poisoned waterhole.

Quote:

“Miss Abby, I haven’t asked your father yet. But—Abby, will you marry me?”
— Ted Bailey (23:20)

7. The Showdown at the Waterhole (24:01–27:26)

• As the herd nears the poisoned waterhole, an impostor Lone Ranger is seen fleeing the scene.
• The real Lone Ranger arrives from the opposite direction, warning them that someone is trying to frame him and poison their cattle.
• He speeds off after the imposter.

Memorable Action Sequence:

Abby, awestruck by Silver’s speed, roots for the Lone Ranger in pursuit:
“Look at that white stallion race over the ground. Why, he’s twice as fast as that other horse. Look!”
— Abby (25:00)

8. Justice Served: The Poisoner Exposed (25:17–27:26)

• The Lone Ranger captures Breed and returns him for judgment. Breed’s guilt is dramatically revealed when he refuses to drink from the poisoned well:

“The water is poison—if I drink, I die.”
— Breed, compelled to confess (26:33)

• Tonto and the Lone Ranger had previously removed the poison, using deceit to expose the real villain.

9. Resolution and Departure (27:26–End)

• Mr. Carey can now water his cattle, and their land is saved.
• The Lone Ranger quietly departs, his job done—having asked for no thanks, leaving only his lasting impression.

Quote:

“He didn’t wait for thanks, but we’ll be eternally grateful, whoever he...”
— Abby (27:38)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|--------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 04:11 | Benjamin Steel | “You’re the coolest hombre I ever met outside of myself.” | | 05:27 | Benjamin Steel | “If you try to stop me, you’ll end up six feet underground in your grave.”| | 08:53 | The Lone Ranger | “If you’d taken a drink of that water, you wouldn’t be working for Steel much longer. The water’s poisoned.”| | 14:30 | Benjamin Steel | “The masked man put a smash—the inkwell’s ink all over the bill of sale!”| | 17:31 | The Lone Ranger | “We may not corner Steel, but at least we can try and save Carey. He’s mad like crazy buffalo. And we’ll help him in spite of himself.”| | 23:20 | Ted Bailey | “Miss Abby, I haven’t asked your father yet. But—Abby, will you marry me?”| | 25:00 | Abby | “Look at that white stallion race over the ground. Why, he’s twice as fast as that other horse. Look!”| | 26:33 | Breed | “The water is poison—if I drink, I die.” | | 27:38 | Abby | “He didn’t wait for thanks, but we’ll be eternally grateful, whoever he...”|

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:54] – Initial confrontation with Benjamin Steel
• [07:04] – The poisoned waterhole discovered
• [11:45] – Mr. Carey considers selling to Steel
• [14:30] – Lone Ranger halts the deal with a dramatic move
• [16:13] – Carey expels the Lone Ranger in despair
• [18:02] – Steel and Breed plot a new scheme
• [22:25] – Drive to the new waterhole; wedding proposal
• [24:01] – Apparent sighting of the masked man, waterhole showdown
• [25:17] – Lone Ranger captures the true villain
• [27:26] – Resolution and gratitude; Lone Ranger’s departure

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Tone and Style

The dialogue and narration remain quintessentially Old West: brisk, direct, full of period flavor (“draw up a chair,” “cattle die of thirst,” “mad like crazy buffalo”). Tension, suspicion, integrity, and rural humor color the exchanges, keeping the story moving swiftly toward justice.

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In Summary

"Cloudy Waters" is a classic Lone Ranger episode showcasing themes of justice, cunning villainy, the hardship of honest ranchers, and the unwavering resolve of a masked hero. Enhanced by modern audio restoration, the episode captures the timeless battle of good versus evil—replete with cliffhangers, a romantic side-plot, and a satisfying triumph over corruption in the Old West. As always, the Lone Ranger rides off before receiving thanks, his legend secured in the grateful hearts of those he saves.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Andrew Rines (Host)]

Back in the old west, folks didn't run to the pharmacy every time trouble hit. They relied on the know how and natural remedies. Kind of like how Tonto always seems to have a special mixture ready for whatever came next. If you want to learn how to do that today, check out the Beginner's Guide to Herbal Remedies. Easy steps for teas, tinctures and salves. Even if you've never tried herbs before, visit otrwesterns.com herbs to learn more again. Otrwesterns.com herbs. Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment, you can find more western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Abby]

Two.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high. Silver the Lone Ranger, With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the planes, led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. The stories of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, have come down to us through the generations. And 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 a great horse. Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. We've got a basin.

[Abby]

I'll still.

[Narrator]

Lone Ranger in Tonto. Seeking to get real proof that Benjamin Steel, king of the cattle country, is actually a criminal. Worse than any outlaw were up against a tough fold. The vast Tomahawk basin was the center of Steel's activities. And the masked man and Tonto made their camp on the rim of the Great Basin. One morning, as they stood by the campfire, there came a faint whisper of sound from the surrounding woods. Then a knife whistled through the air.

[The Lone Ranger]

Kilosabby.

[Narrator]

Somebody throw a knife.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steady. Tunnel. The knife was meant to miss. Just a warning. Step out into the clearing. I got you covered. Right. Into the clearing or I'll shoot.

[Benjamin Steel]

Hey, come on.

[Abby]

Get up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get up.

[Benjamin Steel]

Give a credit, mask man.

[The Lone Ranger]

You don't scare his in kimosabe horseware. Tomahawk Brand. Ricky.

[Benjamin Steel]

You don't know who I am?

[The Lone Ranger]

Tomahawk Brand of Benjamin Steel Ranch.

[Narrator]

You work for him.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't think this man worked for Steel, Tono.

[Benjamin Steel]

You've never met me, Mask man, but I don't mind telling you who I am.

[The Lone Ranger]

I know who you are.

[Benjamin Steel]

You do, eh?

[The Lone Ranger]

I can guess. Your name is Benjamin Steel.

[Benjamin Steel]

Mister, what they say about you is sure a fact. You're the coolest hombre I ever met outside of myself. Here finds Steel.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steel. You're a member of the Black Arrow.

[Benjamin Steel]

I was a member of the Black Arrow. But the Black Arrow's gone.

[The Lone Ranger]

You smashed it just as you'll be smashed someday.

[Benjamin Steel]

Well, you're holding a six year on me. Why don't you take me to jail?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm not a fool. What matter, Kimasabe? You got prisoner. We take him to jail, give him to sheriff. If we do, he'll be free inside of an hour.

[Benjamin Steel]

Sure, because you gotta have proof to put a man behind bars, didn't you? There's nothing on earth to prove that I've been a member of the Black Hell. Just as there's nothing on earth to prove I don't run things fair and square. And according to law.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steele, this gun is aimed at your heart. I pull the trigger, there would be no need of a judge or a jury. No need for jail.

[Benjamin Steel]

You don't missed it. But you won't pull the trigger. No, you won't pull the trigger. Because you're the Lone Ranger. A Lone Ranger believes in law and order. You do everything according to what's honest. That's why I came here, bold as brass. I knew you wouldn't shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Steele. Got to the point.

[Benjamin Steel]

Mister, the point is as sharp as that knife sticking in the tree. Clear out. You and the engine both clear out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Because you say so.

[Benjamin Steel]

I run things in Tomahawk Basin. If you try to stop me, you'll end up six feet underground in your grave.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pa and I are staying here until you land in jail.

[Benjamin Steel]

Steel. So it's that way, huh? War, is it?

[The Lone Ranger]

Call it anything you like, but you'll end up in jail.

[Benjamin Steel]

What can you do against me? A masked man and an engine. You're stubborn, that's what. So be it. Then. It's your funeral. I hope you give me a good fight. Because I like fights. Savvy? I like them and always win them. The Tomahawk Basin belongs to me. I own Half the cattle to own the grasslands. Soon I'll own all of them. I'll use any methods I like and nobody's going to stop me. Those that have nerve enough to stand up against me will die. And that goes for you, Mr. Steele.

[The Lone Ranger]

Clear out before I change my mind.

[Benjamin Steel]

I hope you live to regret that. Adios, kiddie bear.

[The Lone Ranger]

Him plenty bad. He's clever, Tano. He knows we haven't a shred of proof against him. That's why he could meet us face to face. Him got plenty men and plenty guns.

[Narrator]

We stay in Tomahawk Basin.

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe anytime we ride into ambush, get shot. We've got a job to do, Tonto, and nothing will stop us. We're riding into the basin.

[Abby]

Young as the water hole. Father, shall we water the horses before we go on to the ranch house?

[Mr. Carey]

Yeah, Abby. Been a mighty dry ride from Leadville. Say, who's that?

[Abby]

It looks like Ted Bailey.

[Benjamin Steel]

A girl in love.

[Mr. Carey]

Sure has sharp eyes, Father. Don't deny it, Abby. You blush and clean up your ears. But Ted Bailey's a nice young feller. I wouldn't mind having him for a son in law.

[Abby]

He hasn't even asked me.

[Mr. Carey]

Sure, sure. Now don't tell him I said so. Well, howdy, Miss Happy.

[Ted Bailey]

It's nice to see you.

[Mr. Carey]

I'm here too, bailey.

[Ted Bailey]

Of course, Mr. Carey. Howdy to you too. You didn't think overlooked you?

[Mr. Carey]

I wasn't sure, son. Been waiting long?

[Ted Bailey]

Waiting? Well, I haven't been waiting.

[Mr. Carey]

Oh, just a coincidence, huh?

[Ted Bailey]

Yeah.

[Mr. Carey]

Then how come your horse has trampled down the ground so much?

[Ted Bailey]

Well, I. Well, that is anyway.

[Abby]

Now, Father, you stop that. Ted Bailey wanted to wait around to pass the time of day with us. There's no call for you to think it's funny.

[Ted Bailey]

Well, I reckon you must be right thirsty, Ms. Abbey. Let me help you off the wagon. It's mighty nice seeing you again.

[Abby]

It's been quite a while.

[Ted Bailey]

Well, I ride herd for Mr. Steele. I had to make a trip to Chisholm.

[Abby]

The water's nice and clear, isn't it? Yeah.

[Ted Bailey]

Haven't watered my horse yet. I didn't want him to muddy up the water before you came. Here you are. Take a sip.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't drink that water.

[Ted Bailey]

It wouldn't thunder.

[Abby]

It is a master.

[Ted Bailey]

Stand back. Let me get my gun.

[Abby]

Shut the gunman out of your head.

[Mr. Carey]

What's the meaning of this? Bailey, are you hurt?

[Ted Bailey]

Oh, no, Mr. Carroll isn't hurt.

[The Lone Ranger]

My bullet hit the gun.

[Abby]

You're an outlaw. It's a hole.

[Ted Bailey]

What else could it be Ms. Abby. These hombres riding in spur for leather. And Besides, my boss, Mr. Steele, warned all us riders it was an outlaw room in the basin. An outlaw riding a white horse and wearing a mask. An engine pard with him.

[The Lone Ranger]

We not outlaw.

[Ted Bailey]

Mr. Steele's my boss. I work for him and I believe what he tells me.

[The Lone Ranger]

If you'd taken a drink of that water, you wouldn't be working for Steel much longer. The water's poisoned.

[Benjamin Steel]

What?

[Mr. Carey]

What's that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Water's poisoned. That's why I fired those shots as a warning.

[Abby]

I don't believe it. You were up on the ridge. How could you tell if the water was poisoned?

[Mr. Carey]

Yeah. Did you taste it?

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't have to taste it. Look across the water hole.

[Ted Bailey]

Huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

Get it, Tutto. Give him up, Scone.

[Abby]

Why? He's holding up a jackrabbit.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here. Here comes hubby. Thanks, Tuttle. This jackrabbit was lying on the far side of the water hole. Take a look at it, Carrie.

[Mr. Carey]

Jehus of that, mister, you're right. It was drinking from this water hole. And now it's dead. Bailey, would you know anything about this?

[Ted Bailey]

Me?

[Mr. Carey]

How come you didn't drink before we arrived?

[Ted Bailey]

How come you're saying I poison the water?

[Mr. Carey]

It looks mighty suspicious. Keep out of this, Abby.

[Ted Bailey]

Harry, if you wasn't Ms. Abby's father.

[Mr. Carey]

Don't hide behind a woman's skirts, Bailey. I asked you what you guess it. I got another gun. Draw up that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your hands away from that holster.

[Mr. Carey]

Let him draw, Mr. Edmond.

[Narrator]

I'll put a.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's enough, Carrie. Bailey, get on your horse and travel.

[Ted Bailey]

If you ask me, masked man, I'd say it was you poisoned this water.

[The Lone Ranger]

I said get on your horse.

[Ted Bailey]

There's only one of you here I give a hang about. I'm leaving for her sake. Goodbye, Ms. Abby.

[Abby]

Oh, you shouldn't have said that. That Bailey couldn't have poisoned the water. He couldn't.

[Breed]

Somebody did.

[Mr. Carey]

Abby. Now we're licked for certain. There's nothing left for me to do but to sell our ranch. I'll have to accept Steel's offer.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that?

[Mr. Carey]

Steel. Benjamin Steel, owner of the Tomahawk Ranch. He's made me an offer.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're not going to sell.

[Mr. Carey]

Sure I am. Lock, stock and barrel. What else can I do? This is the only water in my range. I can't let my cattle die of thirst.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gary, have you thought that Steel himself might have poisoned this water?

[Mr. Carey]

What? Why should he do that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Forget your cattle.

[Abby]

Oh, that's ridiculous. Benjamin. Steele's the biggest man in this valley. He wouldn't do a thing like that. You ask me, I think Ted was right. I think you poisoned the water.

[Ted Bailey]

No, that's not true.

[Abby]

You're outlaws. I don't know why you should do it and then want us away.

[Mr. Carey]

But we not poison waters enough.

[Ted Bailey]

Toto.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's no way to settle the argument now. It gets us no place.

[Mr. Carey]

I don't know what to think. I'm all mixed up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Carrie, will you wait a little while before making up your mind to sell out?

[Mr. Carey]

I. I can't wait long.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tad and I saved your life just now. We're asking you not to sell, mister.

[Mr. Carey]

I'll think it over. That's all I can say.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good. You may hear from us later. Adios.

[Mr. Carey]

Interrupts Scouts Adios.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver.

[Mr. Carey]

Come on, Abby, back to the wagon. We got a dry ride to the ranch house.

[Abby]

Father, those men are outlaws. Sit there. And he says Mr. Steele warned all his men about them.

[Mr. Carey]

I don't know, Abby. Mr. Steele's a mighty big man. But somehow that masked gent, he didn't sound like an outlaw.

[Abby]

I don't care what he sounded like. He must be an outlaw.

[Ted Bailey]

I rode right, right straight back here to the ranch house, Mr. Steele.

[Breed]

And if I'd been able to, I'd.

[Ted Bailey]

Have shot that master hombre. Like you said, he's an outlaw all right. No honest man would be so fast on the draw.

[Benjamin Steel]

Keno, Billy. I'm glad you told me. So Kerry's water hole was poisoned, eh?

[Ted Bailey]

Well, him and me had a couple of words.

[Benjamin Steel]

Yeah, I thought you and Kerry were pretty friendly.

[Ted Bailey]

I'm sorry about it now. He accused me of poisoning the water.

[Benjamin Steel]

No.

[Ted Bailey]

Of course, now that I'm calmed down, I'm going to forget about it. Poor Kerry's had so much tough luck lately. He's all on edge.

[Benjamin Steel]

Yes, poor fellow. I hope he takes my offer. At least it'll give him some cash to settle on a new place.

[Ted Bailey]

I reckon I better go now, huh, Mr. Steele?

[Mr. Carey]

Yes.

[Benjamin Steel]

Bailey, head back and ride in line on that south herd. You better stop in the kitchen and have some grub, seeing as you miss dinner.

[Ted Bailey]

Oh, thanks, Mr. Steele. Gosh, you're a straight hombre to work for. Adios.

[Benjamin Steel]

Adios, baby. Straight ombre to work for that Billy kid still wet behind the ears. They sure got him fooled.

[Breed]

You got everybody fools in your steer.

[Benjamin Steel]

Howdy, Breed. You been here all this time?

[Ted Bailey]

Yes.

[Breed]

And your I stay in corner very quiet.

[Benjamin Steel]

Heard what Billy said?

[Breed]

The mastermind, he make trouble Already is.

[The Lone Ranger]

Read.

[Benjamin Steel]

If him and the engine hadn't warned in. I don't care. His ranch sure carrying his daughter would be dead from that water.

[Breed]

That is true.

[Benjamin Steel]

Yes, it'd be dead. With no living relatives, they could have taken a place like that.

[Breed]

Mother Bailey, he would be dead too.

[The Lone Ranger]

What of it?

[Benjamin Steel]

That ignorant cow Pudge wouldn't be any loss to me. As easy to get as Loco Weed was. You more careful, breed. The last man hadn't seen that dead rabbit that had taken that water.

[Breed]

Senor, I put the poison in the water hole. I do not stay around to watch. I have a moose. Pronto.

[Benjamin Steel]

Well, never mind.

[Breed]

You go somewhere, senor.

[Benjamin Steel]

Set up a horse breed. I'm riding over to see Carrie. I'm going to pay cash and get his ranch. Right. Hey, K. Bag full of cash. 2000 silver dollars this side of this bill of sale. I get you a ranch and the cash is yours.

[Mr. Carey]

Well, I sort of promised the masked man.

[Benjamin Steel]

Mask man, you ever cactus that umbrella? I'm doing your neighborly turn. Offered to buy your place. I got a good mind to take back my offers, Father.

[Abby]

Mr. Steeler's right. Sign the bill of sale.

[Mr. Carey]

You know, if I could only locate the skunk who's poisoned my water hole and burnt my winter hay.

[Benjamin Steel]

I reckon I'm wasting my time. Give me my cash and audio. You carry.

[Mr. Carey]

No, no, wait, Mr. Steele.

[Benjamin Steel]

Keno.

[Mr. Carey]

I'll sign.

[Benjamin Steel]

Hey, I knew you'd have sense. Carry. There's a pen dipped right in the ink well. What the. The math man put a smash the ink weld or zinc all over the bill of sale.

[The Lone Ranger]

Carrie isn't signing. Steel, clear out.

[Benjamin Steel]

Carrie, are you going to let this ornery outlaw talk you into losing his sale?

[The Lone Ranger]

You heard me, Steel. Clear out. And take your money with you. And don't come back.

[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.

[Abby]

Sam. Satan.

[Narrator]

Faced with the two six guns and the steady hands of the Lone Ranger. Steel rode away from Kerry's ranch in a fuming rage. Leaving the masked man untotled.

[The Lone Ranger]

Harry, I thought you promised me you'd think it over. In another minute, Steele would have had your wrench, mister.

[Mr. Carey]

You and the engine get out of here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gary, you mustn't, sir.

[Mr. Carey]

Mustn't. Right now I probably lost my one chance. Steele won't make that offer again.

[Abby]

Not after this.

[The Lone Ranger]

There must be some other way.

[Mr. Carey]

There's no other way. Then Steve was big hearted enough to make me an Offer.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't be a fool.

[Mr. Carey]

Yeah, I was a fool. I was a fool in the first place to listen to you. Well, you stopped us from drinking that water, so I listened.

[Abby]

We're not listening anymore.

[Mr. Carey]

Right, Abby? We're quits now, masked man. I won't start any gunplay because of what you did at the water hole. And also because you're inside my house. But now I'm telling you in no uncertain terms. Get out and stay out. And the next time I see you, be ready to shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

Lets go, Tanner. Steady, big fella.

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

Clean him up.

[Benjamin Steel]

Scarlet.

[Ted Bailey]

Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

What we do now, Kimasabi? Gary doesn't know what he's getting into. Totto Steel's as craft in dangerous as a rattlesnake.

[Mr. Carey]

Ah, him worse than rattlesnake. Rattler give warming before him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Strike.

[Mr. Carey]

Strike.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're going to keep on the alert every minute, day and night. That night we may not corner Steel, but at least we can try and save Carrie. Him mad like crazy buffalo. And we'll help him in spite of himself. Steal him plenty smart hom come to wonder what he'll do next.

[Benjamin Steel]

Go there.

[Mr. Carey]

Ho, ho, boy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Breathe.

[Benjamin Steel]

Breed, where are you?

[Breed]

I'm here, senor. You get the lamps from Carrie?

[Benjamin Steel]

It doesn't look like it.

[Breed]

No, senor. That is the money you bring back. Hey, what happened?

[Benjamin Steel]

Hello, Razor. That's what happened.

[Mr. Carey]

Carrie was all set to sand, had.

[Benjamin Steel]

A pen on his head. Then the ranger bus in.

[Breed]

Senor, while you were away, I think of another way to get cattle from Carrie.

[Benjamin Steel]

What's that?

[Breed]

I have a plan, senor. Will be easy to work. I think there is a white horse in the corral. A horse that looks something like silver.

[Benjamin Steel]

What are you aiming at, Breed?

[Breed]

I tell you. But first I ask you a question. Well, if I get in trouble, senor, may be bad for you. Yes?

[Benjamin Steel]

What do you mean?

[Breed]

To the rest of the people in Tomahawk Basin. You are a very honest man. Only me know you have done many crime. Yes.

[Benjamin Steel]

Go on.

[Breed]

It would be to your best interest to to protect me if I should go to jail.

[Benjamin Steel]

Perhaps you won't. But if I should read, I'll tell you right here. Now, you won't go to jail. But if you ever did, you can count on me to get you out.

[Breed]

I hope so, senor.

[Benjamin Steel]

I'll have to get you out. If you talk to you put a rope around my Nike. See?

[Breed]

I make sure you understand. That is all.

[Benjamin Steel]

Let's have it. What's your scheme?

[Breed]

You are a good neighbor, Senor Steel. You Have a water hole not far from Senor Carey's ranch.

[Benjamin Steel]

Yes, that water is mine. It's not open water.

[Breed]

So then perhaps you will open it. Yes, senor. For this scheme I use the white horse. I rest like the Lone Ranger. And to take the message to Senor Cary, we can use Ted Bailey. You listen now. I tell you.

[Ted Bailey]

I got word the boss wanted me. Is he around? Breed it.

[Breed]

Take a little walk for a moment, Ed.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hello.

[Breed]

But I tell you what you ought to do. I am foreman for Senor Steele.

[Ted Bailey]

Sure thing, Breed.

[Breed]

The boss, he offered to buy carry out.

[Ted Bailey]

Say, that's right nice of him. Mr. Carey must have been mighty pleased.

[Breed]

And this sale was not completed. Bailey, that mask outlaw. He's talking no.

[The Lone Ranger]

What?

[Ted Bailey]

Doggone that gents hide.

[Breed]

I tell you, Breed, Monsignor Steele is very generous man. He's going to let carry water. He's heard at the Cottonwood water hole.

[Ted Bailey]

After what happened.

[Breed]

See, you are a good friend to.

[Ted Bailey]

Mr. Well, him and me had a few words.

[Breed]

It does not matter. You are still friends tomorrow. You're right. Tell Senor Carry he can water cattle at the Cottonwood. You do that. Yes.

[Ted Bailey]

Yes, sir, I sure will. I'll get there around noon tomorrow.

[Abby]

Now you eat that dinner. Father. I didn't cook it just to look at Abby.

[Mr. Carey]

I can't help feeling that.

[Ted Bailey]

Howdy. I've been riding all morning. Got some chow for a hungry man.

[Abby]

Ted.

[Mr. Carey]

Ted, baby, what a tarnation. You young wuther snapper.

[Ted Bailey]

Whoa there. Hold on, Mr. Carey. My holsters are empty. You left my guns out with a horse. And besides, I'm the bearer of good news.

[Mr. Carey]

Yeah.

[Ted Bailey]

Yes, sir. Now wipe that gloom off your face. First off, I'm apologizing for getting riled the other day. And second and most important, Ben Steele sent me to tell you that you can drive your cattle to the Cottonwood water hole and let them drink their fill.

[Abby]

The Cottonwood? But that belongs to Mr. Steele.

[Mr. Carey]

I haven't any money to pay him the watering fee.

[Ted Bailey]

It won't cost you one red cent.

[Mr. Carey]

What's that?

[Ted Bailey]

Not one red cent. Mr. Steel says there's no sense letting good cattle die while you and him are fixing to make a sale anyways.

[Mr. Carey]

Say, that is good news.

[Ted Bailey]

I don't have to get back to my job till the day after tomorrow. Mr. Carey. If you want me, I'll be glad to give you a hand getting the cattle to the water hole.

[Mr. Carey]

Youngster, draw up a chair and set down. Abby, dish up some more of that grub.

[Ted Bailey]

I could eat a wolf Hide and hoofs and bears.

[Mr. Carey]

Pile the plates high, Abby. I got my appetite back.

[Ted Bailey]

Yep.

[Mr. Carey]

Bailey. We'll round up the cows this afternoon, start moving them right out. I reckon we ought to get to Cottonwood Waterhole a night before sundown tomorrow.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're breathing.

[Breed]

I've just now come from the water hole, senor. I lowered the heavy sack with a poison into the wood. In an hour only water will be poisoned.

[Benjamin Steel]

What about Carrie?

[Breed]

Saw his h the cattle from the top of the hill. Another three hours and they will drink.

[Benjamin Steel]

Good. You better get back there in time to put on your accent.

[Breed]

Please, senor. As they approach the water hole, they will catch sight of a m man riding away at full gallop. Only it will not be the long ranger, eh? He will be someone else.

[Mr. Carey]

Water.

[Ted Bailey]

There's a water hole up ahead.

[Abby]

Listen to the stairs. They can smell it.

[Mr. Carey]

Don't let them go too fast. They've been thirsty so long, I'll drink too much. Keep them in control.

[Breed]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Carey]

Yippee. You longhorns. You're gonna drink your fill. Nice fresh, sweet water coming.

[Ted Bailey]

Mighty too.

[Abby]

Get along there. Move along.

[Mr. Carey]

We'll hurt em tandem outright. Point up front.

[Abby]

Good boy, Ted.

[Ted Bailey]

Yeah. Miss Abby.

[Abby]

Thanks for all you've done.

[Breed]

Shucks, Miss Abby.

[Ted Bailey]

This was Mr. Steele's doing.

[Abby]

Thanks anyway.

[Ted Bailey]

You reckon you're pa is going to sell to Mr. Steele?

[Abby]

Of course he will. All the bad luck we've been having. And Ben Steel being so friendly, naturally will sell.

[Ted Bailey]

Oh, too bad the water on your ranch has been poisoned. Usually takes a month for the poison to disappear.

[Abby]

You couldn't wait that long.

[Ted Bailey]

Well, you could now. If you keep on using this water.

[Abby]

And I'll pay for it. No, Ted. We can't take any more advantage of Ben Steel. Father will sell. The least we can do and stay honorable.

[Ted Bailey]

Yeah, I reckon so. I guess that means you'll leave Tomahawk Basin, doesn't it?

[Abby]

There's no more land to settle here.

[Ted Bailey]

I'd sure hate to see you leave.

[Abby]

You would?

[Ted Bailey]

Well, I. Miss Abby. I haven't asked your father yet. But Abby, will you marry me? Will you, Ted? Oh, I know I'm just a plain cow puncher and I shouldn't even ask.

[Abby]

I think my father will say it's all right.

[Ted Bailey]

What's that?

[Abby]

And so will I. Abby.

[Mr. Carey]

You mean you'll marry me?

[Abby]

I've been waiting for you, dad.

[Ted Bailey]

Oh, gosh. Gosh, Abby. Bailey, I don't know what this. What's that? Mr. Carey?

[Mr. Carey]

Look up ahead.

[Abby]

Huh?

[Mr. Carey]

Dog gone and Bailey. Stop Looking so calf eyed.

[Abby]

Look.

[Mr. Carey]

They're galloping away from the water hole.

[Ted Bailey]

That's a white horse.

[Abby]

Father, isn't that the mask man?

[Mr. Carey]

Did you hear that? It sure is him.

[Abby]

I don't know, Father. That horse doesn't look as big somehow. Those words he shouted, they don't say.

[Ted Bailey]

There's something mighty peculiar going on. What was that hombre doing at the water hole?

[Mr. Carey]

I don't know. Maybe he was waiting in ambush for me. Then when he saw there was two of us, he changed his mind. Still, there's no use figuring these here cows are thirsty. Let's get that water. Get up there. Get up.

[Ted Bailey]

It's the masked man again.

[Mr. Carey]

In the engine.

[The Lone Ranger]

No. Reach for your guns. We've been waiting for you. Gone.

[Mr. Carey]

If I savvy this, why, we just saw you riding north over the ridge and now you're suddenly com busting in from the west.

[The Lone Ranger]

That man was an imposter.

[Benjamin Steel]

What you mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

I mean he's riding a white horse and wearing a mask to fool you.

[Mr. Carey]

Now what in blazes would he do that for?

[The Lone Ranger]

Because he poisoned that water hole and he wanted to put the blame on me.

[Benjamin Steel]

Poison?

[Mr. Carey]

What's that you say?

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your cattle away from that water till I get back.

[Ted Bailey]

Where you going?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm catching that man. Toddo, stay here and make sure they don't move. Me watching. Come on, Silver.

[Abby]

A crimson.

[Ted Bailey]

I'll be dog. This here is more confusing than chasing a jackrabber through a bramble.

[Mr. Carey]

I can't keep those cattle from water.

[The Lone Ranger]

You do what mask friends say. How to make sure of that?

[Abby]

Father Ted, I believe that first man wasn't in Foster.

[Mr. Carey]

How are we going to tell Abby?

[Ted Bailey]

He's got too big a lead for.

[Mr. Carey]

This one to ever catch up with him.

[Abby]

That's just where you're wrong. Look. Look at that white stallion race over the ground. Why, he's twice as fast as that other horse. Look.

[Mr. Carey]

Why say so?

[Abby]

He is.

[Mr. Carey]

Maybe he will catch that hombry after all. Say injunction. Who is that partner of yours anyway?

[Breed]

We fix Lorenzo good arse. But he's one carried her. They die getting nice man do it.

[Narrator]

Breeds horse had crossed the ridge and ordered an easy gallop of the poisoner. Sitting easy in the saddle, Reed had no fear of pursuit. Until suddenly.

[Ted Bailey]

What is this?

[Narrator]

An amber breed straightened, turned and looked over his shoulder. Over the ridge behind him flashed a great white stallion.

[Abby]

Get up.

[Ted Bailey]

Get up.

[Narrator]

In sudden panic, Breed clap spurred to his mount, flattened out in the saddle as his horse lengthened his stride. There was no use Closer and closer pounded Silver's great strides. Closer and closer.

[The Lone Ranger]

No use. Stop or I'll make you stop.

[Ted Bailey]

You never catch me alive.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your hands off that whole.

[Narrator]

A six gun dropped from Breed's nerveless fingers. Then a rope snaked through the air, whipped tight around his body.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where are you struggling? You haven't got a chance.

[Ted Bailey]

You're going back.

[The Lone Ranger]

Understand? Oh, Silver wo. Oh, boy.

[Abby]

You got him. You brought him back.

[Ted Bailey]

Why?

[Abby]

It's freed.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here's a man who tried to poison this water hole, Carrie. Just as he poisoned yours.

[Ted Bailey]

You can prove nothing.

[Narrator]

That is a lie.

[Ted Bailey]

You cannot prove I do such a thing.

[The Lone Ranger]

No? Very well, then. Suppose you take a drink from that water hole. Otto. Pull him off his horse. Make him drink. No.

[Abby]

No, wait.

[Ted Bailey]

No. The water is poison. If I drink, I die.

[The Lone Ranger]

But I say you come.

[Mr. Carey]

Never mind, Agent. He said enough already. He admitted his guilt. Ted, you reckon we can turn this ornery coyote over to the sheriff?

[Ted Bailey]

We sure can, Mr. Carey.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here's some more evidence for you, Kerry. This bag is full of poison at the bottom of the water hole. I got it.

[Abby]

Who else helped you do this awful thing, Breed?

[Breed]

Beg me to jail.

[Ted Bailey]

I say no more.

[Breed]

Not one word.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Carrie, you can water your cattle now. Go ahead.

[Ted Bailey]

Water my cattle? Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

The water hole on your ranch will be clear again in a few days. The cattle won't suffer anymore. Mister.

[Mr. Carey]

What do you mean, Breed poison the water? He was afraid to drink it himself.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hannah and I were watching him. Several hours ago, he put the sack in the water hole and then left. Before he came back, we took the sack out. That water was fit to drink all the time. Breed didn't know it. That's how he convicted himself.

[Mr. Carey]

Well, if that don't beat everything.

[The Lone Ranger]

Bad man make heap big mistake, Contado. Our work here is done.

[Abby]

Come, Reed.

[Mr. Carey]

I reckon you more than met your match this time. Me and Ted are going to take you to the jailhouse just as soon as we get the cattle watered. And thanks to this mask man, you. Hey. He's gone. Him and the engine lit out already.

[Abby]

Yes, Father. There they go. He didn't wait for thanks, but we'll be eternally grateful. Whoever he.

[Narrator]

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

[Abby]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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 our most recent ranch hands, 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 copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Abby]

Sam.