Covered Wagon Robbery | The Lone Ranger (11-07-49)

Summary

Episode Summary: "Covered Wagon Robbery | The Lone Ranger"

Old Time Radio Westerns featuring The Lone Ranger, originally aired on November 7, 1949, and digitally restored for enhanced audio quality by host Andrew Rhynes.

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Introduction

The episode "Covered Wagon Robbery" transports listeners to the tumultuous days of the Wild West, where lawmen and outlaws vie for control over small frontier towns. The story centers around the iconic duo, the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto, as they navigate threats posed by the notorious outlaw Rat Morton and his gang.

Plot Overview

1. A Warning to Sheriff Brewster ([04:33] - [08:35])

The Lone Ranger, keenly aware of Rat Morton's impending robbery plans, reaches out to Sheriff Brewster in Fowlerville. He shares vital intelligence gleaned from a Mexican shepherd boy who observed members of Morton's gang scouting the town. The Ranger outlines Morton's modus operandi: the gang camps a few miles from town, disperses to gather intel, and strikes swiftly under Morton's command. Recognizing the severity of the threat, Sheriff Brewster commits to increasing vigilance.

2. The Suspicion Falls on Bob Lacy ([05:35] - [07:25])

During a subsequent visit to the sheriff's office, Bob Lacy, the bank's bookkeeper, seeks counsel regarding his nephew, Fred Bowen, who has been implicated in gambling-related thefts. Lacy reveals a significant discrepancy in the bank's accounts—$10,000 unaccounted for—raising suspicions of internal malfeasance. Despite initial denials, Bob Lacy's nervous demeanor hints at deeper involvement, prompting the Lone Ranger to suspect foul play beyond mere thievery.

3. The Lone Ranger's Investigation ([10:02] - [20:59])

Determined to thwart Morton's plans, the Lone Ranger and Tonto embark on a strategic search for the outlaw hideout. They split their efforts, with Tonto scouring the northern hills and the Ranger covering southern territories. Their investigation leads them to an unusual sight: a covered wagon parked near Morton's camp—a discrepancy, as outlaws typically rely on saddle horses for their operations.

Meanwhile, Bob Lacy confronts Sheriff Brewster, revealing his financial struggles and inadvertent involvement in gambling, which led to his missing funds. His confession clears him of suspicion, redirecting suspicion towards his nephew, Fred Bowen.

4. The Bank Robbery and Showdown ([21:16] - [27:53])

As Morton's gang attempts to execute the robbery, the Lone Ranger and Tonto orchestrate a counter-strategy. Disguised as travelers with a covered wagon, they approach the bank, catching the outlaws off-guard. A tense confrontation ensues within the bank vault, culminating in a firefight where the Lone Ranger skillfully disarms and subdues Morton's men.

Simultaneously, Fred Bowen tries to manipulate the situation, but his deceit is swiftly uncovered thanks to the Lone Ranger's intervention. The episode reaches its climax with the arrest of Rat Morton and his gang, ensuring peace returns to Fowlerville.

Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger: The masked vigilante committed to justice and the protection of the innocent.
• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal Native American companion, providing wisdom and tactical support.
• Sheriff Brewster: The local law enforcement official collaborating with the Lone Ranger to maintain order.
• Bob Lacy: The bank's bookkeeper, whose financial troubles make him a person of interest.
• Fred Bowen: Bob Lacy's nephew, revealed to be the true culprit behind the bank's missing funds.
• Rat Morton: The primary antagonist, leading a gang of outlaws intent on robbing Fowlerville.

Climax and Resolution

In the decisive moments, the Lone Ranger and Tonto manage to outsmart Rat Morton's gang by exploiting their reliance on a covered wagon instead of horses, leading to their capture. Fred Bowen's betrayal is exposed, and the bank's security is restored. The episode concludes with the affirmation of the Lone Ranger's role as the guardian of justice in the Wild West.

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger ([07:33] - [07:35]): "Well, then why didn't you tell the."

• Bob Lacy ([06:22] - [06:23]): "How do you know?"

• Sheriff Brewster ([04:33] - [04:36]): "Got great ideas but no idea how to build a website." (Note: This appears to be part of an advertisement and is excluded from key content summaries.)

• Lone Ranger ([15:01] - [15:03]): "Wait."

• Tonto ([26:22] - [26:23]): "I'm running this show."

• Lone Ranger ([27:20] - [27:29]): "Don't shoot."

• Sheriff Brewster ([28:38] - [28:42]): "He is the Lone Ranger."

(Note: Some quotes overlap with advertisements or non-essential sections and are thus excluded from this summary.)

Conclusions

"Covered Wagon Robbery | The Lone Ranger" masterfully combines suspense, strategic prowess, and the timeless battle between good and evil. The Lone Ranger's unwavering dedication to justice, coupled with Tonto's insightful assistance, ensures that Fowlerville remains a safe haven against outlaws. This episode not only entertains but also reinforces themes of loyalty, integrity, and the triumph of rightful authority.

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Transcript

[Lone Ranger]

It's been so long.

[Narrator]

How have you been?

[Tonto]

Hello?

[Narrator]

I'm doing well, Dave.

[Lone Ranger]

Why are you talking that way? Please say one for a compliment or two for a question.

[Sheriff Brewster]

Yeah, this is weird.

[Lone Ranger]

I think I'm gonna go.

[Rat Morton]

Talking with an automated phone tree can feel pretty ridiculous. That's why when you call Pacific Source Health Plans, you'll get a real person to answer all your important questions. Pacific Source Health Plans.

[Narrator]

This is a real person.

[Lone Ranger]

How can I help you?

[Rat Morton]

Human service, not automated phone trees.

[Lone Ranger]

Find a plan at Pacific Source members.

[Rat Morton]

First.Com.

[Sheriff Brewster]

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 hi O.

[Lone Ranger]

Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Brewster]

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[Narrator]

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[Sheriff Brewster]

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[Narrator]

With his 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 a 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. The Lone Ranger and his Indian companion Toto had been on the trail of rap Morton and his gang of outlaws for some time. When they were sure he was about to strike at Fowlerville, they camped near the town. The Lone Ranger waited until after dark, then called on his old friend, Sheriff Brewster.

[Lone Ranger]

I thought I should warn you so you can be on your guard. Sheriff.

[Josh Kane]

Yes, I appreciate it, but just why do you think Morton plans a robbery here?

[Lone Ranger]

Yesterday, Tom and I talked to a Mexican shepherd boy. It seemed two men we know to be members of Rat Morton's gang. They asked the boy how to get here.

[Josh Kane]

I see. Well, that's enough to warrant watching for trouble.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, Rathmorton always operates on the same plan. That's in your favor, Sheriff.

[Josh Kane]

I understand he travels alone. Except when he pulls a robbery?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. He'll camp within a few miles of town. His gang will ride in one or two at a time to join Morton and hear plans for the next job. I see. Then the gang breaks up. After getting orders, they drift into town one by one or two by two. Then on a signal from Morton, they strike quickly. Usually shooting up the town as they leave.

[Josh Kane]

Well, how does he get the low down on the jobs before he strikes?

[Lone Ranger]

Well, sir, that's a mystery. But I believe he works with an accomplice. I have nothing to prove that, though.

[Josh Kane]

Someone's at the door. You better step into the next room.

[Lone Ranger]

Very well, Sheriff.

[Bob Lacy]

Good evening, Sheriff.

[Josh Kane]

Oh, Banker Kane. How are you, Josh? What can I do for you?

[Bob Lacy]

You mind if I come in? I. I want to talk to you about something.

[Tonto]

Sure.

[Josh Kane]

Sure thing. Come on in.

[Bob Lacy]

I'll sit down here.

[Josh Kane]

What's on your mind, Josh?

[Bob Lacy]

Have you seen my nephew, Fred Bowen, gambling recently?

[Josh Kane]

Gambling? Oh, I can't say I have.

[Bob Lacy]

Then have you seen my bookkeeper, Bob Lacy, gambling or throwing money around?

[Josh Kane]

Wait. Hold on, Josh. What's all this about? Someone rob your bank?

[Bob Lacy]

One of those young men has been stealing from me.

[Josh Kane]

How do you know?

[Bob Lacy]

I suspected it for some time. Late today, after the bank closed, I checked the cash by my account. $10,000 is missing. That's a lot of money. Anyone who took it would have to be living mighty high. Or gambling.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, that's right.

[Josh Kane]

Have you checked your books? You might find out it's just an accounting mistake.

[Bob Lacy]

I intend to check them tonight.

[Josh Kane]

If you do, though, the thief will know you suspect something's wrong. He'll either run out or cover his tracks. Wait till tomorrow night and give me time to make some inquiries. Maybe I'll learn something.

[Bob Lacy]

Not as yet. I'll wait till tomorrow night to look over the books.

[Lone Ranger]

Good, good.

[Josh Kane]

That'll give me time to check up on Bowen and Lacy. Now, meanwhile, don't act like you suspect him.

[Bob Lacy]

All right, Jeff. Good night.

[Josh Kane]

Good night, Josh. Oh, all right, mister. He's gone.

[Lone Ranger]

I heard you call him. Josh Kane. He's the banker.

[Josh Kane]

Yeah. I thought he had me there for a second.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, how do you mean?

[Josh Kane]

His nephew's cashier at the bank. When Josh asked me if I'd seen the boy gambling, I said I hadn't.

[Lone Ranger]

Then he asked if you'd seen Bob Lacy, the bookkeeper, gambling. Yeah.

[Josh Kane]

Yeah, I. I talked around that question and he forgot to ask me again.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, have you? Yeah.

[Josh Kane]

Fact is, I've been watching Bob.

[Narrator]

Oh.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, then why didn't you tell the.

[Josh Kane]

Banker I want a little time. Fred Bowen's a sneaky cuss. If anyone's stealing, I naturally suspect him. But the evidence points to Bob Lacy. And Bob's as fine a young fellow as I know of. In fact, he's engaged to Josh Kane's daughter.

[Lone Ranger]

So? Well, why don't you have a talk with Lacy and tell him the facts?

[Josh Kane]

Yeah, I think I shall.

[Lone Ranger]

That's a good idea. Well, Sheriff, I'll be getting back to camp tomorrow. Todd and I shall try and locate Rat Morton's hideout.

[Tonto]

Sure.

[Josh Kane]

Let me know if you do. I'll round up some deputies and we'll take Rat by surprise.

[Lone Ranger]

Good enough. Meanwhile, be on guard here. Adios.

[Josh Kane]

Adios.

[Narrator]

As the Lone Ranger suspected, Rat Morton and his gang had gathered to strike at F. It was near midnight when he and his men, sitting around a small campfire, heard hoofbeats approaching.

[Tonto]

Someone's riding in here, boys. Yeah. Keep them covered till we see who it is.

[Lone Ranger]

Hey, it's a cashier from the bank.

[Tonto]

Yeah. All right. Holster your guns, boys. Hi there, Bowen. Hello, Morton. Well, what do you want? I told you not to ride out here.

[Rat Morton]

I had to come. The sheriff knows you're in this territory.

[Tonto]

How do you know that?

[Rat Morton]

I got the news from a friend who'd just been deputized by the sheriff. So I came here to tell you.

[Tonto]

Uh huh. What else did this friend tell you?

[Rat Morton]

He said that several men were being sworn in as special deputies. They had orders to question any strangers who ride into town during the next few days. Morton, you'll have to call off the robbery for a while.

[Tonto]

I'll do nothing of the sort. I'm going through with it. And so are you, Bowen.

[Rat Morton]

But they'll be laying for you and your man.

[Tonto]

It don't matter. I'll ride into town right under their noses. They won't know what's happening either. Boys, gotta change my plans. But this is how we'll do.

[Narrator]

The following day, the Lone Ranger prepared to make a search for the outlaw band he believed to be hiding near Fowlerville. After breakfast, he and Toto saddled Scout and Silver.

[Lone Ranger]

Easy, Silver. Silly big fellow. Cinch tight now, Toto, we're not grind together today. You go through the hills north of here and I'll ride south. Steady. Easy, Silver. If you see any sign of Rath Morton and his gang, come back here at sundown and make a smoke signal. Me do that, big fella. Steady. I'll be watching. If I learn anything, I'll come back to camp and Signal you. And then we go back and try to capture him. That depends on how many men are in his gang. We'll probably have to call on the sheriff to help us.

[Tonto]

Me go now.

[Lone Ranger]

Good. Steady, Silver. Easy. Adios.

[Josh Kane]

Adios.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on. S.

[Narrator]

It was almost sundown when Toto hurried back to the Lone Rangers camp. The masked man had not returned. The Indian built a smudge fire, hoping to attract his friends attention before darkness fell. And he was rewarded half an hour later when he heard hoofbeats approaching.

[Lone Ranger]

Me glad you come pronto, Kimasapi. What did you learn, Toto? Me fine camp of outlaws. It north of here, not far from town. Did you see Rat Morton? Ah, me see him. And him got plenty men. How many? There's six men. Seven counting Morton. Yes. We'll need the help of the sheriff. That's right. But Keema savvy? What is it, Tutto? Me see something. Me not savvy. A wagon with top on in outlaw camp. A covered wagon. That right? Me never see outlaws riding wagon. Oh, neither did I. Didn't they have saddle horses? Me count seven horses with saddles, two horses with harness for wagon. We'll find the answer to that when we raid their camp tonight. Come on. We're going to town for Sheriff Brewster. Easy. He's just not easy, fella. Monster.

[Tonto]

Get up there.

[Bob Lacy]

Hey, Rat.

[Tonto]

Who do you want me to tire? Drive through the alley. Slow down when you get back in the bank and let us out. The bank's just ahead. The cashier should be waiting for us. If he does what I told him.

[Josh Kane]

I think I can make him out now. Ho, ho, ho.

[Tonto]

Get ready to jump out, boys.

[Lone Ranger]

Here we are.

[Tonto]

All right, you hombres, outside. Hop out, Joe.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah. Right.

[Tonto]

Drive around front. Leave the team standing at the hitch rail across the street and come back and stand guard at the back door. Now get moving.

[Josh Kane]

Right.

[Narrator]

Get up.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on.

[Rat Morton]

Anyone stop you?

[Tonto]

Morton born? I told you they wouldn't. The deputies would be looking for men on horseback. They'll never suspect a wagon.

[Rat Morton]

Come on, let's get inside. I'll unlock the door. Hey. Go down the hole.

[Tonto]

Wait a minute, Boone. Are you trying to spring a trap on us? You see that hall light down there?

[Bob Lacy]

Sure.

[Rat Morton]

I came through the front way a while ago and lit it myself. I also opened the vault so we could save time.

[Tonto]

I hope you're telling the truth. It'll be too bad for you if you're lying. I'll keep him covered, boys. I guess you weren't lying.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Rat Morton]

There's nobody laying for us, there's nothing to worry about. Now, Ranch, you come into the vault with me and we'll get the money. The rest of you can sit down and take it easy.

[Tonto]

Yeah. Make yourself comfortable in them chairs. Sure. Someone's in that vault.

[Rat Morton]

It's Uncle Josh. How in thunder did he get in there?

[Bob Lacy]

Who are you talking to, Fred? Dick J. Who are these men with you?

[Tonto]

Get them up and keep quiet.

[Bob Lacy]

A gun, Fred? What's the meaning of this?

[Tonto]

It's a robbery, old time. And your nephew's in on it.

[Rat Morton]

I hate to do this, Uncle Josh, but I'm caught red handed.

[Tonto]

Jughead. Give me that.

[Lone Ranger]

I gotta kill him.

[Rat Morton]

He knows everything now.

[Tonto]

I'm not shooting anyone in here, you fool. Shot would bring every deputy in town on the run. Grab the old guy, boys. Let me go.

[Josh Kane]

You pay for this.

[Bob Lacy]

Take your hands up.

[Tonto]

Take him into the vault, boys, and be quick about it. Now, Born, take the lamp into the vault. We don't want nobody to see us in here.

[Rat Morton]

I've got it.

[Tonto]

All right. Come on. Brad.

[Rat Morton]

What are you going to do about my uncle? You have to kill him to shut his mouth and protect me.

[Tonto]

We get the cash out of here, we'll close the door of the vault and spin the combination. By morning he'll be dead.

[Lone Ranger]

Wait.

[Josh Kane]

Keemas Abbey postcode.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, yes. What is it, Todd? You see wagon and team? Yes, what about it? It looked like wagon and team. You see an outlaw camp. Are you sure? It looked like. Same wagon, same horses. It's in front of the bank, too. The bank's dark inside. That's right. We see no light. All right, dismount. We'll investigate before we go to see the sheriff. Easy, fellas.

[Narrator]

Inside the bank, the outlaws ransacked the vault by the dim light of a lamp, which could not be seen outside.

[Tonto]

Stuff for money in these carpet bags. Are you boys ready to go? Born?

[Rat Morton]

Yeah.

[Tonto]

We leave the old man inside. You shut the vault door and twirl the combination.

[Bob Lacy]

Oh, no, that's. That's murder. You know, I'll smothered to death in here.

[Tonto]

Pick up the money and get going, boys.

[Bob Lacy]

Don't leave me here.

[Tonto]

Don't do it.

[Bob Lacy]

Shut up.

[Tonto]

Close that door and let's get out of here.

[Lone Ranger]

There.

[Rat Morton]

Another combination.

[Tonto]

Come on.

[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.

[Tonto]

RA.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. Leaving everything in the bank as they had found it, the outlaws prepared to make their getaway. Convinced that Josh Kane, the banker, would not be found until morning and that he would be dead by then. As they reached the back door of the building, Joe, the outlaw on guard outside the building, rushed to the leader excitedly.

[Tonto]

What's the matter, Joe? There's a big gin out in front with an Indian. Huh?

[Josh Kane]

They've been looking over our wagon.

[Lone Ranger]

I can't make out who they are.

[H]

Hey, let's gun them down, Rat.

[Tonto]

No. No. Shooting would bring the law down on us. Prana. We couldn't make a run for it in a wagon. They'd catch us easy.

[Josh Kane]

What do we do?

[Lone Ranger]

Head.

[Tonto]

Bowen.

[Rat Morton]

Yeah?

[Tonto]

Isn't there a stagecoach leaving around this time for Cool Springs?

[Rat Morton]

Yeah, that's right. At least within 10 minutes.

[Tonto]

Good. All right, scatter, boys. I'll get over there and buy tickets for all of us. These carpet bags will look like travelers leaving town. Nobody will bother us.

[Josh Kane]

Yeah, that's right.

[Tonto]

The law's looking for people riding into town, not for anyone leaving on the stage.

[Rat Morton]

But I can't get on the stage. I'd be recognized. And folks might wonder where I was going.

[Tonto]

Where's your horse, Bone?

[Rat Morton]

At the rack up the street and.

[Tonto]

Lock that door we just came through. You ride out to our camp and wait for us. You'll get you cut there.

[Rat Morton]

But, Rant, how will you get there? The stage goes west, not north.

[Tonto]

Leave that to me. Come on, boys. Scatter and meet me in five minutes at the stage station.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, Sheriff Brewster had called young Bob Lacy to his office for a talk. He had laid the facts plainly before.

[H]

The bookkeeper, Mr. Kane, thinks I've been stealing from the bank.

[Josh Kane]

He knows one of you stole money. And I know you've been gambling lately. Can you explain that, Bob?

[H]

Yes, I can. You know, Sheriff, I'm engaged to Irene Kane.

[Josh Kane]

Yeah, sure, I know that.

[H]

I want to get married, but when I do, I want a home. Dad doesn't pay me much and. Oh, well, to tell the truth, I drew out $1,000 I'd saved. I started gambling, hoping to build it up to at least 3,000 so I could buy a place.

[Josh Kane]

It was your money, not the bankers.

[H]

I swear it, Sheriff.

[Josh Kane]

Bob, no one can make money gambling. You ought to know that.

[H]

I know it now. I lost every cent I saved. Now I'll have to break the engagement.

[Josh Kane]

That's too bad, son. I'm mighty sorry. But at least you can clear yourself of stealing from the bank.

[H]

I sure can. And I'll prove who did steal that cash. Oh, I'm going to the bank tonight and go through Fred Bowen's accounts. I'll have the proof on him when Mr. Cain comes to the bank in the morning.

[Josh Kane]

Wait a minute. Yes, come in, mess man. Now, don't be scared, Bob. I know this man.

[Lone Ranger]

Good evening, Sheriff. I think Toto and I have located Rat Morton and his gang.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger told all that Tono had told him about finding the outlaws camp and how they had found the covered wagon in front of the bank.

[Lone Ranger]

Tahoe's not sure it's the same team and wagon. He saw it from a distance, of course, when he was looking for the outlaws camp. Oh, another thing. We investigated the bank.

[Tonto]

You did?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. The front and back doors were locked. There was no guard outside and no sign that an attempt had been made to break open a door.

[Josh Kane]

Then they must still be in their.

[Lone Ranger]

Camp, located on the old Indian mine property. I would backtrack on the wagon, but it's too dark for that. We might be losing time.

[Josh Kane]

I'll round up some deputies as we ride through town.

[Lone Ranger]

Good. Hollow's wedding with our horses.

[Josh Kane]

Fine. Well, good night, Bob. I hope you find that proof you're looking for.

[H]

I'll bet I do, Sheriff. I'll see you in the morning. Hope your nail those outlaws.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the stagecoach with Raph Morton on the box with the driver rolled out of town toward Cold Springs. It had gone but a few miles when Raph threw a gun and shoved it against the ribs of the driver.

[Tonto]

Stop the team, driver. Hey, a gun. Right. And this is as far as you're going. Stop here. All right, boys, outside. Get the horses out of those harnesses. Don't kill me, mister. I just want to borrow your four horses. Me and my boys are going horseback riding about set r. So long, old timer. Don't get sore feet. Walking back to town.

[Narrator]

When Bob Lacy entered the bank, he couldn't find the lamp by which he usually worked. So he took another from Josh Kane's office, lighting it. He found the place undisturbed and proceeded to unlock the vault where the ledgers were kept.

[H]

Two left, one and a half. Right.

[Lone Ranger]

There.

[Bob Lacy]

Blissy. Thank goodness you found me.

[H]

Mr. Kane.

[Narrator]

The banker quickly explained what had happened to him then said even.

[Bob Lacy]

Though I was facing debt, I had to satisfy myself of one thing.

[H]

What was that, Mr. Kean?

[Bob Lacy]

Well, I suspected either you or Fred Bowen of stealing from the bank.

[H]

I know that. The sheriff told me about it. That's why I came back here. I wanted to examine Fred's accounts.

[Bob Lacy]

Fred and his outlaw friends left the lamp in the vault.

[H]

Yeah, I missed it when I Came in.

[Bob Lacy]

So I went through your accounts and Fred's in his ledger. I discovered what he'd been doing. The ungrateful cuss. I'd like to get my hands on him right now.

[H]

Must have gone with the outlaws. The hideout is on the old Indian Mine property.

[Bob Lacy]

How do you know that?

[H]

A masked man told the sheriff and I was in the office when he did.

[Bob Lacy]

Did you see a masked man?

[H]

Yes, but I haven't time to explain now. The sheriff's on his way out there, so let's go too.

[Bob Lacy]

We'll have to get horses, Bob.

[H]

And there's a wagon on a team across the street. We'll borrow it. And on the way I'll explain everything.

[Bob Lacy]

Yes, I hope we get there in time to help catch that new good nephew of mine and his bandit friends.

[Lone Ranger]

Light of campfire? Yes, and I see a man standing by.

[Josh Kane]

What do we do? Rush the camp?

[Lone Ranger]

No, Sheriff. Have your men spread out and ride in around the camp to stop anyone from escaping. They may have hurt us and taken cover. Leaving just the one man to draw us on.

[Josh Kane]

Yes, you're right, boys. Spread out and ride in from all sides.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on, sir.

[Josh Kane]

Get up there.

[Narrator]

Fred. Bowen had arrived at Rat Morton's camp when he heard approaching horsemen. He thought Morton and his men were returning. The Lone Ranger and the posse were upon the crooked cashier before he realized he was trapped. But he decided to use brains instead of a gun in an effort to escape his plight.

[Josh Kane]

It's Fred. Bo.

[Rat Morton]

Good evening, Sheriff.

[Josh Kane]

Well, what are you doing here, Fred?

[Rat Morton]

I was giving my new gelding a workout tonight. I happened to see this campfire and rode in. Found those horses tethered over there, but no one was around. Is there any trouble?

[Josh Kane]

There's plenty of trouble. This is Rat Morton's camp.

[Rat Morton]

Rat Morton the outlaw?

[Josh Kane]

The same. It's no place for you to be.

[Rat Morton]

Oh, you're right. I'm getting out of here before any shooting stuff.

[Josh Kane]

Oh, no, you're not. You're not leaving here.

[Rat Morton]

You can't hold me here. I don't want to get shot if a gun battle starts.

[Josh Kane]

I don't believe your story, friend. I'm going to keep you here till I know you've told the truth.

[Rat Morton]

No, you'll not keep me here.

[Josh Kane]

That's it. I've got him. Now let me snap these cuffs on the critter.

[Rat Morton]

You have no right to do this to me.

[Josh Kane]

See about that.

[Lone Ranger]

You button your lip, Sheriff. Yeah, it looks like Morton and his gang plan to return. They left their saddle horses and all Their camp gear. They see us around the campfire, they won't come here.

[Josh Kane]

I guess you're right about that, mister.

[Lone Ranger]

Now we'll all get to cover of darkness.

[Josh Kane]

Good idea.

[Lone Ranger]

How to put ashes over the fire so they won't suspect anyone's been here. Ah, me doing Stay out of sight and make no sound. If Morton and his men ride in, I'll give the signal for action. Come on, Silver. Come on.

[Tonto]

I thought the cashier would be waiting for us, Rat. Yeah, yeah. So die.

[H]

You gonna wait for him, boys?

[Tonto]

I sure am. Joe, stir up that fire, will ya? All right, I'll get it, Red.

[Lone Ranger]

But, Red.

[H]

When they discover the bank's been robbed, this country will swarm with lawmen.

[Tonto]

No one will discover the bank's been robbed till daylight when someone opens the vault, finds Josh Kane's body.

[H]

Yes, maybe so. But I don't see any sense in.

[Tonto]

Waiting for Fred Bowen.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm for taking his share of the loot and pulling out of him.

[Tonto]

Now listen to me. I'm running this show. Don't worry about his share of the divvy. We'll have it when we ride out of here. But I won't leave him to shoot off his face. About what happened tonight. How do you mean? When he starts blowing his money, he'd be suspected. The law puts the pressure on him. He talk. I know his kind.

[H]

What are you gonna do about him?

[Tonto]

Put a bullet through him when he rides in here. Now cool your heels. You'll be here soon.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Sheriff Brewster]

Again.

[Lone Ranger]

You're surrounded. Get your hands up.

[Tonto]

It's a mess, man. Sit him down.

[Lone Ranger]

The sheriff.

[Tonto]

Let him have it.

[Narrator]

Ralph Morton and his men, silhouetted against the now brightly burning fire, shot wildly into the surrounding shadows.

[Lone Ranger]

So you want to shoot it out, huh?

[Narrator]

Dropping low, the Lone Ranger fired with both hands.

[Josh Kane]

All right, close in on them, boys.

[Narrator]

Rats spun from the impact of a bullet in the arm. Another outlaw dropped with a broken leg. The third crook stumbled and lay sprawling on the ground, crying out in mortal fear.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't shoot.

[Josh Kane]

Don't shoot me.

[Lone Ranger]

Throw down your gun and make it.

[Josh Kane]

Fast, or we'll cut you down like mad.

[Tonto]

Dorm, I'm hit.

[Bob Lacy]

My arm.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll patch you up before we take you in.

[Josh Kane]

We've heard enough to put all of you behind bars, including Bowen. Bring that pole cat here.

[Bob Lacy]

Take it easy there.

[Josh Kane]

Hey, there's the bank cashier.

[Lone Ranger]

Sure, if you heard them say they locked banker Kane in the bank vault.

[Josh Kane]

Yeah, and if he's dead by the time we get back to him, they'll hang for murder.

[Lone Ranger]

Hey, Masali, you look here. Yes, hello. Me find money from bank and saddlebags on horses. Then that closes the case against them.

[Josh Kane]

Wait, someone's coming in a wagon. Keep your guns handy, boys. Why, it's Bob Lacy and Josh Kane.

[Tonto]

Kane's not dead. He's alive.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll be going now. Adios.

[Josh Kane]

Adios, my friend.

[Rat Morton]

Adios.

[H]

Mr. Kean. That's the masked man I was telling you about. The one I saw in the sheriff's office.

[Josh Kane]

And if it hadn't been for him, these crooks would have made off with all the money in your bank.

[Lone Ranger]

Josh.

[Bob Lacy]

I reckon you're right, Sheriff. Just who is he, Josh?

[Josh Kane]

He is the Lone Ranger.

[Tonto]

SA.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created and produced by George W. Trendle, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer.

[Sheriff Brewster]

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.