Dan’s Strange Behavior | The Lone Ranger (12-23-42)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode Summary: "Dan’s Strange Behavior" | The Lone Ranger (12-23-42)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Air Date: July 28, 2026 (podcast release)
Original Broadcast: December 23, 1942

Main Theme & Purpose

This episode of "The Lone Ranger" immerses listeners in a suspenseful tale set along the U.S.-Canadian border near Copperville. The Lone Ranger and his trusted companion, Tonto, are drawn into the mystery of a young boy, Dan Frisbee, whose actions and identity are as intriguing as the pursuit of a runaway murderer, Ace Higgins. The story unfolds with classic Western themes—justice, loyalty, and sacrifice—culminating in a dramatic cross-border confrontation and revealing deeper questions about Dan’s past and his connection to the Lone Ranger.

---

Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

Opening Setup & Introduction of Dan (03:58–06:17)

• Setting the Scene: The Lone Ranger, after capturing an outlaw, lingers in Copperville out of interest for Dan, a remarkable 14-year-old boy raised by his ailing grandmother.
• Dan’s Ideals: Betty Martin, Mr. Martin’s daughter, praises Dan’s character:
  “For a boy of 14, he seems to be so well informed. And he has such high ideals.” (06:09, Betty Martin)

The Lone Ranger’s Curiosity and Dan’s Background (06:17–08:18)

• Dan’s Admiration: The Lone Ranger learns from Betty and Mr. Martin that Dan idolizes him and has long aspired to be his sidekick.
• Identity Questioned: The Lone Ranger subtly inquires about Dan’s last name and family, suspecting a deeper story.

Introduction of Conflict: Ace Higgins (08:18–10:39)

• Ace Higgins Confrontation: Tensions rise as Mr. Martin fires Higgins, revealed to be a wanted murderer. Higgins knows he’s safe while in the U.S.:

  “Brelt's got no power south of the border. He can't touch me here. This ain't Canada.” (09:04, Ace Higgins)

• The Border as Obstacle: Lawmen cannot pursue Higgins unless he crosses into Canadian territory.

Dan Drawn into the Plot (10:48–12:23)

• Dan’s Strange Behavior: Dan, excited to help the Lone Ranger, suddenly withdraws after receiving a mysterious note, refusing to participate in the plan to capture Higgins.
• Mystery Deepens: Both Mr. Martin and the Lone Ranger suspect Higgins threatened Dan:

  “If Higgins threatened that boy, I'll hold on.” (12:18, The Lone Ranger)

The Lone Ranger and Tonto Hatch a Plan (12:41–14:24)

• Split Duties: The Lone Ranger decides to visit Dan to investigate his change in demeanor, while Tonto scouts the border at Coon Creek.
• Dan’s Loyalty Tested: Despite pressure, Dan refuses to join action against Higgins, citing an undisclosed reason:

  “That's all there is to it. I can't help now.” (14:05, Dan Frisbee)

The Setup: Trapping Higgins (15:08–17:09)

• Undercover Maneuvers: Disguised, the Lone Ranger confronts Higgins in a café. He dangles an envelope supposedly containing incriminating evidence, pushing Higgins to the brink.

The Sting Operation at the Border (19:41–24:47)

• Psychological Trap: The Lone Ranger lures Higgins to a lone camp supposedly near the border. Higgins, desperate to destroy evidence, follows.
• Tipping Point: After Higgins destroys what he thinks is incriminating evidence, he realizes he has inadvertently crossed into Canada:

  “You walked right over it coming to this campfire... It's legal, Higgins. You came here of your own free will.” (24:37, The Lone Ranger)

Higgins Brought to Justice (24:49–25:00)

• Resolution: Higgins is arrested on Canadian soil by law enforcement, thanks to the Lone Ranger’s clever scheme.

Revelation: Dan’s Strange Behavior Explained (25:31–28:04)

• Dan’s Dilemma: Dan finally explains he could not join the Lone Ranger because his grandmother suffered a health crisis and needed him at her side:

  “I figured that Higgins was more important. It was just a case of the thing that was best for the greatest number.” (27:19, Dan Frisbee)

• Selflessness: Dan prioritizes the needs of many over his own desires, echoing the Lone Ranger’s own ethics.

Cliffhanger: The Mystery of Dan’s Name (27:24–28:13)

• Name Reveal Questioned: It's revealed “Frisbee” is not Dan’s real last name, leaving the Lone Ranger with another dramatic thread to pursue.

  “Is it truly his name?” (27:38, The Lone Ranger)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Dan’s Admiration and Ideals:
  “He seems to be so well informed. And he has such high ideals.” (06:09, Betty Martin)

• On Law and Borders:
  “Brelt's got no power south of the border. He can't touch me here. This ain't Canada.” (09:04, Ace Higgins)

• Dan’s Loyalty/Vulnerability:
  “That's all there is to it. I can't help now.” (14:05, Dan Frisbee)

• The Sting Recap:
  “You walked right over it coming to this campfire... It's legal, Higgins. You came here of your own free will.” (24:37, The Lone Ranger)

• Dan’s Ethical Reasoning:
  “It was just a case of the thing that was best for the greatest number.” (27:19, Dan Frisbee)

---

Important Segment Timestamps

• Dan’s Ideals & Martin Family Talks: 04:17–08:18
• Ace Higgins’ Dismissal & Law Exposition: 08:18–10:39
• Dan Receives the Threatening Note: 11:36–12:23
• Dan’s Refusal & Lone Ranger’s Confrontation: 13:26–14:08
• Café Undercover Interrogation: 15:08–17:09
• Envelope Sting and Border Transfer: 19:41–24:47
• Dan Explains His Actions: 25:31–28:13
• Teaser About Dan’s Real Name: 27:24–28:13

---

Episode Tone & Style

Classic Western radio drama—tense, moral, driven by dialog and character motivation. The Lone Ranger is resolute, wise, and empathetic; Dan is earnest and principled. The episode weaves suspense, subterfuge, and a touch of bittersweet familial care against a backdrop of justice and frontier ethics. The cliffhanger about Dan’s real identity sets up future revelations.

---

Summary

"Dan’s Strange Behavior" is a gripping Lone Ranger episode that masterfully combines a cross-border manhunt with the mystery and coming-of-age journey of Dan Frisbee. It’s a story about justice overshadowed by personal trials and selfless decisions, culminating in a satisfying capture and a tantalizing hint at greater secrets linked to the Lone Ranger’s legendary past.

---

Transcript

[Katie Duke]

Hi, I'm Katie Duke and I've been a nurse for over 20 years. Listen, I used to think that I was my most stylish in my 20s, but honestly, style and confidence only get better with age. And that is why I love figs. These scrubs are beautiful, comfortable and they are built to last. They're not those boxy, scratchy uniforms that we all started out in. No, no, no. These fit perfectly, they feel amazing and the quality is just wow. My favorite color, burgundy. It's chic, it's timeless, and it's even the same color as my apartment because I'm kind of obsessed with it. And I love adding custom embroidery to make my scrubs as personal as my style. And since I work in telehealth, my embroidered figs even double as my ID badge. It's never too late to reinvent yourself or your scrubs. Get 15% off your first order at wearfigs.com with the code FIGSRX. That's wherefigs.com code FIGSRX for 15% off your first order.

[Andrew Rines]

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.

[Narrator]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty Hio. Silver the Lone Ranger. With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the plains 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 the great horse.

[The Lone Ranger]

Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Ace Higgins]

Come on Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's danger on the trail ahead.

[Betty Martin]

I owe Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger in Tonto started on the trail of an outfit in Texas. Weeks of travel and relentless pursuit took them into the mountainous, snow covered high border country just south of Canada. Having captured the outlaw and turned him over to the local authorities, the masked man in Tonto stayed in the copper filled heels around Copperville because of a boy of 14 named Daniel. There was something about this boy that made both the Lone Ranger and his Indian friend want to know Dan better. Tonto had deeply planted thoughts about the boy, but he kept these to himself. The Lone Ranger saw in Dan many qualities that a.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's where Martin has his office. Tutto go and see him. Dan not work there now. Yes, I know it. That's why I came today. I wanted to talk to Mr. Martin when Dan wasn't there.

[Ace Higgins]

You think Martin know about Dan?

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, big fella. There, silver. Dan's helped Mr. Martin in the office from time to time. We'll see.

[Betty Martin]

How do you. Oh, how do you do?

[The Lone Ranger]

How do you do? I came to speak to Mr. Martin. Is he here?

[Betty Martin]

He's my father. I know who you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

You do?

[Betty Martin]

Please listen to me. Daniel has said so much about you. I know you're not an outlaw. Oh, I know that everything you've done has been for the good of. But the fact that you wear a mask. I know that father would want to help you. But the law.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ms. Martin. What are you trying to say?

[Betty Martin]

Father is talking to some sort of lawman in the other room. I. I think it might be you they're talking about. Please go. Hurry. I know my father wouldn't want you taken.

[The Lone Ranger]

The law isn't after me. Then why are you sure I'm the subject of discussion?

[Betty Martin]

No, not exactly.

[The Lone Ranger]

I ask your father about Dan.

[Betty Martin]

Oh, he isn't in trouble. He hasn't done anything wrong.

[The Lone Ranger]

By no means. Quite the contrary. He's done so much that's right that I'd like to know more about him.

[Betty Martin]

We. We all think an awful lot of him for a boy of 14. He seems to be so. So well informed. And he has such high ideals.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've been impressed by him.

[Betty Martin]

While you're waiting for Father, do you mind if I say something?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, not at all.

[Betty Martin]

I. We. Well, everyone likes Dan. They all know how he made you his ideal long before you came here to the north country. For years he has been devouring every shred of information he could get about you.

[The Lone Ranger]

He has?

[Betty Martin]

Yes. And his grandmother told him a lot of things about you too. She heard them from the people who had been in the South. The point I'm trying so poorly to make is just this. Don't let that boy down.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't intend to.

[Betty Martin]

He has said something to father about working with you, helping you.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's a lot a boy with Dan's ideals can do.

[Betty Martin]

His grandmother needs him.

[The Lone Ranger]

I thought she did.

[Betty Martin]

She isn't as strong as she appears. Dr. Sawyer feels that her tired old heart may give out at any time.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dr. Sawyer?

[Betty Martin]

Yes. He's our only doctor here in Copperville.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan's place Is with his grandmother as long as she needs him.

[Betty Martin]

And. And then what?

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, I don't know.

[Mr. Martin]

All right. Sorry I can't be of more help to you.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll appreciate what help you can give and have given, Mr. Martin. Thank you. Good day, Miss Betty.

[Betty Martin]

Good day.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Mr. Brelt, I believe.

[Mr. Martin]

Mask, a friend of mine.

[Ace Higgins]

Brelt Mask.

[Mr. Martin]

That man is connected with the law in Canada.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know. I've heard of him.

[Betty Martin]

Have you ever seen him before?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, I haven't.

[Mr. Martin]

He wasn't in uniform.

[The Lone Ranger]

No belt. The grimmest of all manhunters needs no uniform.

[Mr. Martin]

I saw the way he looked at you.

[The Lone Ranger]

He wanted to question my mask.

[Mr. Martin]

Please don't think me presumptuous in calling you a friend. Saved a lot of explanation.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm honored, Mr. Martin.

[Mr. Martin]

Thank you. I suppose you've already introduced yourself, Betty.

[Betty Martin]

Yes, Father. The Lone Ranger came to ask about Dan.

[Mr. Martin]

Dan?

[The Lone Ranger]

Mr. Martin, what's the boy's last name?

[Mr. Martin]

His last name? The same as his grandmother. It's Frisbee. Why?

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, then she is his grandmother.

[Mr. Martin]

Why, yes.

[Betty Martin]

What made you question it?

[Mr. Martin]

Why do you ask that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, it's something too vague to explain. I'm interested in the boy. I thought he might be someone else.

[Mr. Martin]

As far as I know, he's the grandson of Mrs. Frisby. He's always lived here. At least as far back as I know.

[Ace Higgins]

Martin, I want to talk to you.

[Mr. Martin]

Oh, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

Yeah, Higgins. Oh, so the masked man's here, too. What are you scheming?

[Mr. Martin]

I was going to send for you, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

You're through.

[Mr. Martin]

Fired. I don't want crooks working here. You lied when you got the job.

[Ace Higgins]

So that's it. Brelt was talking, huh?

[Mr. Martin]

Brelt asked if you were employed in the Martin copper mines. I told him you were.

[Ace Higgins]

Yeah, so then that troublemaking bloodhound shot off his mouth about me, huh?

[Mr. Martin]

He gave me a few facts that disagreed with what you told me about yourself.

[Ace Higgins]

Well, Brelt's got no power south of the border. He can't touch me here. This ain't Canada. Canadian police ain't no authority here.

[Mr. Martin]

I know that. So does Brelt.

[Ace Higgins]

So you're firing me on his say so?

[Mr. Martin]

I'm firing you because I don't want your kind working for me.

[Ace Higgins]

All right, give me my pay.

[Betty Martin]

Here you are, Mr. Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

You got it all ready for me, huh?

[Betty Martin]

Is that the right amount?

[Ace Higgins]

It'll do. But you get this, Martin. You can't make me leave town. See, I know my rights. And you can't run me out of town over the border.

[Mr. Martin]

I don't intend to bother about you as long as you stay away from here.

[The Lone Ranger]

And you needn't be scared, neither.

[Ace Higgins]

Savvy? I ain't even to make no trouble. You don't need to call in the Lone Ranger to protect you from me.

[Narrator]

Get out of here.

[Ace Higgins]

I always thought you was Yeller Martin. But I didn't think you'd screamed at the Home Ranger for protection.

[Mr. Martin]

I said get.

[Betty Martin]

What a horrible person.

[The Lone Ranger]

The law wants him in Canada.

[Mr. Martin]

Yes. Murder.

[The Lone Ranger]

He knows better than to cross the border.

[Mr. Martin]

Then he knows he's safe this side of Coon Creek. The creek runs on the borderline.

[The Lone Ranger]

You say he's wanted for murder? Yes.

[Mr. Martin]

And as cowardly a murder as ever has been committed. He stabbed an old woman in the back so she couldn't make an outcry when he entered her home to steal her lifetime savings.

[The Lone Ranger]

He should be taken back to Canada.

[Mr. Martin]

Oh, it wouldn't do.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why not?

[Mr. Martin]

Lawmen are very particular. Unless Higgins crosses the border of his own volition, they can't touch him.

[Betty Martin]

He as much as said that you asked the Lone Ranger to protect us from him. Dad, he called you a rank coward.

[Mr. Martin]

Yes, but that doesn't matter.

[The Lone Ranger]

He recognized me. He'll be on guard whenever I'm around. He probably will make a point of watching what I do, expecting that I'll try and turn him over to the law.

[Dan Frisbee]

Mr. Martin, I. Jumpers. Ginger, the Lone Ranger's here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hello, Dan.

[Dan Frisbee]

Golly, I didn't expect to find you here. Sure am glad to see you. Well, see, I've been telling Graham about your plans.

[The Lone Ranger]

My plan?

[Dan Frisbee]

You know, someday I could work with you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, yes, that's right, Dan. Someday.

[Dan Frisbee]

She sure was pleased. She said she'd sure like me to travel as your sidekick.

[Betty Martin]

How is your grandmother, Dan?

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, she's pretty good. She doesn't seem to be as spry as she was. I wish there was some way I could make her feel stronger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, I'd like to talk to you.

[Dan Frisbee]

Sure.

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps you can help me right now, Mr. Martin.

[Dan Frisbee]

I was to work here today.

[Mr. Martin]

Oh, go ahead with the Lone Ranger, Dan. Betty will help me here in the office.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan might be able to help carry out a little plan to put our friend on the north side of the border, Mr. Martin.

[Mr. Martin]

Fine.

[Dan Frisbee]

What can I do?

[Betty Martin]

Hey, Dan. Danny. Huh? What's up?

[Dan Frisbee]

I ran to get here. I got a note that I was to hand you. A note?

[Ace Higgins]

Yeah, here it is.

[Dan Frisbee]

May I read it, Mr. Martin?

[Mr. Martin]

Of course.

[The Lone Ranger]

I think Dan might not be watched as closely as I'LL be. He might carry out a certain part of a plan to turn that killer Higgins over to the Royal Canadian Mounted.

[Mr. Martin]

I've got to leave you, Dan. What's the matter?

[Betty Martin]

What is it, Dan?

[Dan Frisbee]

I can't tell you now. I've got to leave here, that's all.

[The Lone Ranger]

Goodbye, Dan. You were going to help me put Higgins in jail.

[Dan Frisbee]

I can't, that's all.

[Betty Martin]

I can't do anything now. Well, of all things.

[Mr. Martin]

What was that note, Cracky?

[Dan Frisbee]

I don't know. It was just give to me by

[Ace Higgins]

some gent, that's all I know.

[Betty Martin]

I wonder if Higgins.

[Mr. Martin]

He seemed to be shaking as soon as Higgins name was mentioned.

[Betty Martin]

It might have been a threat.

[The Lone Ranger]

If Higgins threatened that boy, I'll hold on.

[Mr. Martin]

What are you going to do?

[The Lone Ranger]

The sooner we act, the better.

[Betty Martin]

Gosh, Pa, I. I don't know how to explain it, but I feel as if there's a lot of blasting powder just getting ready to explode.

[Narrator]

With Toto riding at his side, the Lone Ranger raced for the small, well concealed camp in the woods. There he and the Indian made plans.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll find out about Dan later on, Toto. The first thing to do is find out why he acted so strangely when he got that note. Then dispose of Higgins. We can take the time to learn more about Dan's past. While I ride to Dan's home. You ride to the border to Coon Creek. Examine it very carefully.

[Betty Martin]

Who?

[The Lone Ranger]

Who?

[Ace Higgins]

Silver?

[The Lone Ranger]

Steady boy.

[Ace Higgins]

Who?

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll see what dan has to say. Silver, old fella. Dan. Dan, I want to speak to you.

[Dan Frisbee]

I can't let you in. Please believe me.

[The Lone Ranger]

I believe anything you say, Dan. What can I do to help?

[Dan Frisbee]

Nothing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Would you care to show me the note you received?

[Betty Martin]

Nope.

[Dan Frisbee]

I can't.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see.

[Dan Frisbee]

You going after Higgins.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's the program.

[Dan Frisbee]

That's what I thought.

[The Lone Ranger]

Do you know any reason why we shouldn't?

[Dan Frisbee]

No, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

Or any reason why we should?

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, sure you should. He's a killer. Mr. Martin fired him. He'll make no end of trouble around here. He might m hire Mr. Martin or Ms. Betty. I wish I could help.

[The Lone Ranger]

Can't you?

[Dan Frisbee]

No, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'd sooner not say why I can't.

[Dan Frisbee]

That's all there is to it. I can't help now.

[The Lone Ranger]

Very well, D. I'll see you later. Take care of things.

[Betty Martin]

I will.

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, big fella.

[Ace Higgins]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger rode hard to join Tonto who was studying the land on both sides of the creek that followed a course through the woods on the international boundary.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll have to work this out alone.

[Ace Higgins]

What matters, Dan?

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't know him not tell no, but he has a good reason for what he's doing. I know that.

[Narrator]

What's your plan?

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, I've got to locate Higgins. When I do, I'll be in a disguise. Meanwhile, there are things you've got to do right here in the woods.

[Dan Frisbee]

Me?

[The Lone Ranger]

Do em now, come over this way and I'll show you the plan I have in mind. And I've got to hurry back to town. I think I can find Higgins in the cafe.

[Ace Higgins]

I ain't no fool. I know what Martin and that Lone Ranger want. They want me to do something so I can be jailed. They're afraid of me. Yeah, but I ain't no fool. Nobody ever said you was a fool, Higgins. So sure. I'm sore at Martin, the enemy buzzard. Didn't have to fire me just on account of Brill. Say so.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sorry to break in, but I'm in a hurry and I want information.

[Dan Frisbee]

What's on your mind, stranger?

[The Lone Ranger]

I want to find a man named Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

That's me. Why are you looking for me?

[The Lone Ranger]

You Higgins?

[Ace Higgins]

I said I was. Who you?

[The Lone Ranger]

My name's unimportant. Higgins, I've got something to talk over with you. Mind if we go to the private room?

[Ace Higgins]

Go ahead. You go first, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

There.

[Ace Higgins]

Who are you, where you from and what do you want of me?

[The Lone Ranger]

Put that gun away, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

Ain't none but the two of us here, stranger. My word's better than yours here. I got friends. Savvy?

[The Lone Ranger]

What of it?

[Ace Higgins]

You won't get nowhere trying to talk me out of holding iron on you. Say what you gotta say and make it short. First of all, I'll have a look at that there big envelope in your pocket.

[The Lone Ranger]

Go ahead.

[Ace Higgins]

I am. I'm. Where'd you get this? Where?

[The Lone Ranger]

You wanna look at it again, Higgins, before you open it.

[Ace Higgins]

Mister, if this here is what I think it is, you won't ever leave this room. Al. 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.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. The Lone Ranger, disguised, left Tonto in the woods near the boundary and went to the cafe to talk to Higgins in the back room. Higgins drew a gun and held it on the Lone Ranger while he looked the outside of an envelope.

[The Lone Ranger]

Going to show you that anyway, Higgins. You needn't have thrown a gun on me to take it.

[Ace Higgins]

What's this mean? Evidence against Ace Higgins.

[The Lone Ranger]

Higgins, you know what You've done so. You know what that evidence is all about.

[Ace Higgins]

Where'd you get this?

[The Lone Ranger]

No one ever committed a perfect crime. You should realize that.

[Ace Higgins]

You take your guns out slow and lay them on the table. Aim to have a look at what's inside this envelope.

[The Lone Ranger]

I thought we might make a deal.

[Ace Higgins]

Any dealing will do will be on my terms. Savvy?

[The Lone Ranger]

I doubt that.

[Ace Higgins]

Oh, you doubt it, huh? Even while you're looking down the barrel of my gun?

[The Lone Ranger]

That information was supposed to reach one of two men. Yeah, Martin or the Lone Ranger.

[Ace Higgins]

So that's hidden. They've been gunning for me for some time and selling for evidence. I said unholster your guns.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I heard you say that. You said put them on the table.

[Ace Higgins]

Well, do it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Not just yet.

[Ace Higgins]

No, you don't. This way. You want it now?

[The Lone Ranger]

Shut up and listen to me. You can talk better without a gun in your hand.

[Ace Higgins]

The most bust is my wrist.

[The Lone Ranger]

Until you're faster. You shouldn't play with guns, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

What's inside that envelope? Let me see it.

[The Lone Ranger]

I might have if you hadn't decided to take the deal. I don't like to have a gun pointed at me. I don't like to be talked to that way.

[Ace Higgins]

All right, all right. You got the whip hand. Now what's your proposition? Suppose you're hunting me up to sell it to me. You are willing to sell me that? The envelope?

[The Lone Ranger]

I might have been. For the right price.

[Ace Higgins]

Let me see the inside of it.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've changed my mind, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

What do you mean, change your mind?

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't like you.

[Ace Higgins]

Are you local?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why?

[Ace Higgins]

You don't have to like me to make a business deal. Maybe you can make a sale if you show me what's in there. I never done anything wrong, but maybe there's a mistake somewhere.

[The Lone Ranger]

The only mistakes are the ones you've made. You see, he's always likely to be a witness to what a man does. But now we don't deal. I'll take this where I was supposed to.

[Ace Higgins]

Hey, I heard some scuffling.

[Dan Frisbee]

Is there anything wrong?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, nothing's wrong.

[Ace Higgins]

Look here, let me have a look at the inside of that, will you?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, Higgins. I'm going to take it to Mr. Martin. Maybe he'll know what to do with it.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger, still disguised, left the cafe and went to Martin's home. He handed the sealed envelope to the owner of the copper mine, apparently unaware that Higgins had followed silently and watched from a vantage point outside an open window.

[The Lone Ranger]

Open it up, Mr. Martin. Read it all the way through before you comment. Very well.

[Betty Martin]

While my father is reading this, can't I get you something to eat or drink?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, thank you.

[Mr. Martin]

By thunderation, dad, this beats everything I ever heard.

[Betty Martin]

Why, what is it?

[Mr. Martin]

Just a minute. I'd better take one more look at a few of the lines here.

[The Lone Ranger]

They mean exactly what they say.

[Mr. Martin]

Well, fine. So there's evidence to put that ornery killer into jail. Even if he doesn't cross the creek and go to Canada.

[The Lone Ranger]

I think Higgins will land where he should, Mr. Martin. It wouldn't be possible for you or the sheriff to put him there.

[Mr. Martin]

How about yourself?

[The Lone Ranger]

I was told that there was a man around here called the Lone Ranger.

[Betty Martin]

Oh, yes, there is.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good.

[Mr. Martin]

You sound as if you thought pretty well of him, Betty.

[Betty Martin]

Oh, I do. I admire him more than any man I know. Dad, what are you laughing at?

[Mr. Martin]

Oh, nothing, Betty. Nothing at all.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mr. Martin, is there any chance that you'll be seeing this man who's called the Lone Ranger?

[Mr. Martin]

I wouldn't be surprised.

[The Lone Ranger]

And you can tell him where to

[Mr. Martin]

find me as I can if I know.

[Ace Higgins]

Where'll you be?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going to camp just this side of the creek.

[Narrator]

Creek?

[Betty Martin]

You mean. You mean Coon Creek?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I'll keep a fire going all night so it'll be easy to find my camp.

[Mr. Martin]

We needn't camp in the open. There's room here in my house.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks, but I think it'll be easier for me to pass on the contents of that envelope if I'm alone when the time comes.

[Mr. Martin]

Suit yourself. Maybe you've got a reason for wanting to be near the creek. It's. It's on the borderline, you know.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know. I'll take that envelope with me.

[Mr. Martin]

Very well. And say yes, sir. When you. When you see the Lone Ranger, you might tell him how Betty feels toward him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good evening, Mr. Martin.

[Ace Higgins]

So you'll be camping alone. The ornery coyote, Higgins, having overheard the

[Narrator]

conversation in Martin's comfortable house by standing near the window, made grim plans.

[Ace Higgins]

I'll get him there. I'll get him before the Lone Ranger can get to him. That's what I'll do. Can't afford to take chances.

[Narrator]

A short time later, a campfire gleamed in the woods. At night, the flickering light reflected from the snow and outlined the dark, uneven line that was a stream of running water known as Coon Creek. Higgins saw the light and a figure busily engaged in fashioning a lean to alone.

[The Lone Ranger]

There.

[Ace Higgins]

That's good. I'll get him. It's a good thing There's a plenty of snow. He couldn't hear me if I ran as hard as I could. His horse is tethered nearby. Well, every critter seems to know I'm coming.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who is it?

[Ace Higgins]

He likely thinks I'm the man he's waiting for at the Lone Ranger. Who is it? I reckon you're expecting me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, then. Come near the fire where I can see you.

[Ace Higgins]

I'm right here. There's guns leveled at you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hello, Hagen.

[Ace Higgins]

But, master, you're here first. See here. What's this mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you think it means? Who did you expect to find here?

[Ace Higgins]

Don't you make a move. You're covered this time. You won't get that chance to slap my gun aside. Keep your distance.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm not moving closer to you. What are you after?

[Ace Higgins]

You know darn well what I'm after. I'm after that there envelope.

[The Lone Ranger]

Envelope?

[Ace Higgins]

The one you showed me earlier. The one you showed Martin.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, yes.

[Ace Higgins]

You wasn't wearing that mask then. What's your game, anyhow?

[The Lone Ranger]

The only thing I have in mind, Higgins, is to see you turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

[Ace Higgins]

And, well, I won't be, see, not as long as I stay south of the border. Now give me that envelope.

[The Lone Ranger]

There it is. On that log near the fire. Good.

[Ace Higgins]

Stand still. Don't you make a move or I'll shoot. There goes all that evidence.

[The Lone Ranger]

Just as well.

[Ace Higgins]

What do you mean by that?

[The Lone Ranger]

All there was in that was a note to Mr. Martin telling him that you'd be listening to what I said to him and telling him what to say to me.

[Ace Higgins]

What you said it was something about me?

[The Lone Ranger]

I said it would put you where you belong. And it will.

[Ace Higgins]

Not now, it won't. It's all burned up.

[The Lone Ranger]

But it has. Higgins. You knew you'd done things in the States, things for which you should have been jailed. You thought there was proof of those things in the envelope. Well, that envelope brought you here to Canada.

[Ace Higgins]

Well, you're loco.

[Mr. Martin]

You're crazy.

[Ace Higgins]

Loco. This ain't Canada.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure as thunder is.

[Mr. Martin]

What the.

[The Lone Ranger]

Drop that gun, killer.

[Ace Higgins]

And me here to back him up. Look here, you can't touch me.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're on Canadian soil right now, Hagen.

[Ace Higgins]

I ain't. This is United States. I'm south of Coon Creek. There's the creek right over there.

[The Lone Ranger]

But the border is south of here. Maybe you forgot that. The creek's frozen over and covered with snow.

[Ace Higgins]

You walked right over it coming to this campfire. I tell you, it's a lie. I can See the creek. Me fix that stream of water. Me dick channel in snow. Turn Potter Creek into channel. Hey, this ain't legal.

[Mr. Martin]

It ain't right.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's legal, Higgins.

[Ace Higgins]

You came here of your own free will.

[The Lone Ranger]

And the minute you stepped over the

[Ace Higgins]

border, we were here to put you

[The Lone Ranger]

under arrest for murder. And I have men with me to bear witness. Come along, Tado.

[Ace Higgins]

Be ready.

[The Lone Ranger]

Adios, Bells.

[Ace Higgins]

Wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let me thank you.

[Ace Higgins]

Come on, Silver. Anyone?

[Narrator]

Leaving the outlaw Higgins in the capable hands of the Northwest Mounted Police, the Lone Ranger and Tonto headed back for the little mining town of Copperville. And as they rode, one question kept going through the mind of the masked man. Why had Dan, who admired the Lone Ranger more than any other person in the world, refused to go with him to capture Higgins? Finally, Silver and Scout were brought to a halt in front of the house where Grandma Frisky and Dan lived.

[Ace Higgins]

Ho, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ho, Ho. Ho. Ho, fella. This time, Toto, I think Dan will tell us why he didn't stay with us. Easy, big fella.

[Dan Frisbee]

I'm coming. I can go with you now. I was hoping you'd be back.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hold on, Dan. We're finished. I came back to see you.

[Betty Martin]

Come in, for mercy sakes.

[Dan Frisbee]

Come in.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thank you.

[Dan Frisbee]

You mean you're all through with Higgins?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, Dan.

[Betty Martin]

Come on, Tanjo. You come in, too. I'll fix up a bite for the two of you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Tyler. Me?

[Ace Higgins]

Come.

[Dan Frisbee]

Where is Higgins?

[The Lone Ranger]

In Canada. He is captured by Belt.

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, golly. Did you hear that, Graham? I told you the Lone Ranger would find a way to get him there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, I. I want to speak to you.

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, I suppose it looked as if I backed out. I guess I did.

[Betty Martin]

No, let me tell it, Daniel. I think the Lone Ranger will understand.

[The Lone Ranger]

You needn't explain.

[Betty Martin]

But I want to. I'm. Well, I'm not as young as I might be.

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, Graham, you'll be all right now if you just follow the doctor's orders.

[Betty Martin]

You see, my heart pretty old and kind of worn down, and I guess I had a worse attack than usual. So Dr. Sawyer sent word for Dan to come here and stay with me.

[Dan Frisbee]

Oh, I couldn't do much, but I didn't want Graham here alone.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, tell me why you didn't say something about this.

[Dan Frisbee]

Well, I know it was important for you to deal with Higgins before he made trouble for Mr. Martin and Betty and maybe a lot of others.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, but then what would you have

[Dan Frisbee]

done if Graham wasn't feeling well? You'd have dropped Higgins and come here with me. Wouldn't you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why do you think I would have dropped Higgins?

[Dan Frisbee]

Because you would have. You'd have dealt with him later on.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, perhaps.

[Dan Frisbee]

And while you helped Graham and me, Higgins might have made trouble. Well, I guess I figured that Higgins was more important. Well, it was just a case of the thing that was best for the greatest number.

[The Lone Ranger]

The thing that was best for the greatest number.

[Ace Higgins]

Mrs. Frisbie?

[Betty Martin]

Yes?

[The Lone Ranger]

There's one thing I want to ask you. Everyone says that Dan's last name is Frisbee, the same as yours.

[Betty Martin]

That's what he's always been called.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is it truly his name?

[Dan Frisbee]

No, Graham, it isn't.

[Betty Martin]

I always thought your real name, Daniel, is not Frisbee.

[The Lone Ranger]

Kimosabe. You hear that? Yes. Yes, Tado, I heard.

[Betty Martin]

But why are you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I meant to leave here now, Mrs. Frisby. Dan. There are things to be checked on. The most important things in my life. Dan. I'll see you again real soon.

[Dan Frisbee]

Graham. What's he mean, I wonder?

[Betty Martin]

Dan? I wonder.

[The Lone Ranger]

Cannot, Scout.

[Betty Martin]

I am Silver.

[Narrator]

Well, just what lies in back of the young friend's name? What can possibly be the most important thing in the entire career of the Lone Ranger? The answer will come in the next thrilling broadcast.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sam. It's sam.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Tom, 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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.