Devil’s Sink | The Lone Ranger (11-16-42)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: Devil’s Sink | The Lone Ranger (11-16-42)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: July 6, 2026

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Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, hosted by Andrew Rhynes, features a digitally restored classic episode of The Lone Ranger titled “Devil’s Sink.” Set in the unforgiving desert near Oro Mountain, the story centers on murder, false accusations, courage, and the quest for justice as the Lone Ranger, his companion Tonto, and a young man named Jimmy Hightower get entangled in a web of crime and wrongful suspicion. The episode highlights themes of redemption, law versus outlawry, and the strength of character, all set against a vividly described Western backdrop.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

Setting the Stage (04:07–06:13)

• Descriptive opening transports listeners to the desolate wasteland of Devil’s Sink and introduces Jeb Anderson, a solitary gold miner.
• The peril of the environment is palpable: “Nothing lived in Devil’s Sink. Not even hardy mesquite or greasewood.” (05:02)

The Crime – Murder and Theft (06:13–08:28)

• Jeb Anderson is attacked at night by Duke Bandy and his gang, demanding gold.
• Notable moment: The villains escalate their crime—after stealing gold, they set the cabin ablaze and shoot Jeb as he flees.
• Quote:
  • Duke Bandy: “With heat like that, he'll either fry or pop out of there.” (07:54)
  • “Jumpin’ Jehoshaphat, real gold nuggets! Must be 10,000 there.” (07:13)

Lone Ranger and Tonto Investigate (08:28–09:16)

• The pair discovers the crime scene and assesses evidence, deducing murder and arson.
• Tonto’s Observation: “Plenty hoof marks… mean three, maybe four horse.” (08:59)

Enter Jimmy Hightower (09:16–13:16)

• Jimmy confronts the Lone Ranger and Tonto, mistaking them for outlaws and attempting to take a horse.
• The Lone Ranger outdraws Jimmy and demonstrates impressive marksmanship, wowing the boy.
• Quote:
  • Jimmy: “Say, that’s the best shooting I ever saw. I bet even Duke Bandy couldn’t do better.” (11:01)
• Jimmy reveals he is considered a horse thief; his father is the sheriff, and he fears going home due to prejudice over his quarter-Indian heritage.

Wrongful Arrest and Swift Justice (13:16–15:15)

• Sheriff Anderson arrives with a posse, assumes Jimmy, the Lone Ranger, and Tonto are guilty, and arrests them.
• In a hastily convened court, Judge Crawford sentences Jimmy to five years for horse stealing and the Lone Ranger and Tonto to hang at sunrise for murder.

Life-or-Death Stakes and Escape Plan (15:28–19:32)

• In jail, the Lone Ranger concocts an escape using a slingshot made from Tonto’s belt.
• Quote:
  • Jimmy, doubting the plan: “Mister, you’re really loco if you think you can get out of here with a slingshot.” (16:03)
• The escape works; the trio flees and regroups at Devil’s Sink.

The Lone Ranger’s Pardon Plan (19:45–20:43)

• The Lone Ranger sends Tonto to the territorial governor with a note seeking Jimmy’s pardon.
• Quote:
  • “Technically, he did steal his uncle's horse. He's been convicted. We need that pardon.” (20:44)

Infiltrating the Outlaws (21:32–26:30)

• The Lone Ranger and Jimmy, still in handcuffs, attract the attention of Pete Letterman, who leads them to Duke Bandy’s hideout.
• In a tense exchange, the outlaws admit to the murder and theft.
• Duke Bandy recognizes the Lone Ranger from his silver bullets and ties up both protagonists in the desert sun.
• Quote:
  • Duke Bandy: “After about ten hours in that 150-degree sun, there won’t be enough left to plumb.” (26:19)

Survival, Redemption, and the Final Showdown (27:03–29:49)

• Rain allows the captives to free themselves.
• Jimmy realizes his heritage gives him strength:
  • “I’m proud I’m an Indian.” (27:13)
• They race to town to confront Duke before he can kill Sheriff Anderson.
• In a climactic ambush, the Lone Ranger and sheriff defeat Duke and his gang and reveal their guilt.
• The governor’s pardon for Jimmy arrives just in time, exonerating him.

Finale – The Lone Ranger Rides Again (30:06–30:12)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto depart quietly.
• Memorable final line:
  • Jimmy: “The best friend we'll ever have. The Lone Ranger.” (30:08)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Justice in the West:

  • Judge Crawford: “For your crime of horse stealing, I sentence you to five years in the territorial prison... for murder and robbery, you shall be hung by your necks until you’re dead!” (14:08–14:50)

• Skill and Modesty:

  • Lone Ranger (after outdrawing Jimmy): “You think that shot that knocked your gun away was lucky, huh?” (10:37)
  • Jimmy: “Couldn’t have been anything else.” (10:41)
  • Lone Ranger: “Look, Jimmy... Eyeballists can put that tin can into the well...” [proceeds to do so.] (10:42–10:59)

• Heritage and Pride:

  • Jimmy: “The only reason a kid like me can stand this is because I’m part Indian. And Indians are tough. I’m proud I’m an Indian.” (27:13–27:20)

• On The Lone Ranger’s Mysterious Presence:

  • Jimmy: “Hey, where’d he go? He and Tonto, they’ve disappeared.” (30:06)
  • Sheriff: “Who do you mean?”
  • Jimmy: “The best friend we’ll ever have. The Lone Ranger.” (30:08)

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Important Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment/Event Description | |-----------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 04:07 | [Narrator] Introduction to Jeb Anderson, Oro Mountain, and Devil’s Sink | | 06:14 | [Duke Bandy] Outlaws demand gold and burn Anderson’s house | | 08:52 | [Lone Ranger & Tonto] Discover the murder scene | | 09:16 | [Jimmy Hightower] Confrontation with Lone Ranger | | 13:16 | [Sheriff, Posse] Arrest and accusation | | 14:08 | [Judge Crawford] Harsh verdict delivered | | 15:47 | [Lone Ranger] Jail escape plan | | 19:32 | [Escape] Lone Ranger’s risky jailbreak with a slingshot | | 20:14 | [Governor’s Note] Lone Ranger’s message seeking Jimmy’s pardon | | 23:01 | [Devil’s Sink Hideout] Lone Ranger and Jimmy meet Duke’s gang | | 24:40 | [Duke Bandy] Outlaws confess to Anderson’s murder | | 26:19 | [Duke Bandy] Lone Ranger and Jimmy staked out to die in the sun | | 27:49 | [Escape] Rainfall leads to their escape from Devil’s Sink | | 28:14 | [Final Showdown] Lone Ranger, Jimmy, and Sheriff confront outlaws | | 29:45 | [Pardon] Letter from the governor saves Jimmy | | 30:08 | [Farewell] The Lone Ranger and Tonto depart, their identities unknown |

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Tone & Style

The episode is filled with classic Western action, a touch of humor, and warm moments highlighting honor and perseverance. Dialogue style stays true to the genre, featuring plainspoken exchanges and rugged wisdom colored by regional dialects.

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Summary

“Devil’s Sink” stands out as a tightly plotted, suspenseful Western whodunit and coming-of-age tale. It illustrates the Lone Ranger’s dedication to justice and his unwavering support for the wrongly accused. Through fraught chase scenes, tense confrontations, and moments of both wit and heart, the story ultimately reaffirms the ideals of courage, redemption, and the enduring legend of the masked hero who rides for justice in the Old West.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Hey everybody.

[Lady Luck]

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[Spinquest Announcer]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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[Narrator]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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[Narrator]

All new drinks are here now at McDonald's.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Refreshers contain caffeine.

[Duke Bandy]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode. 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/Storyteller]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty cryo.

[Narrator]

Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Oh, I have had no luck lately. Wait.

[Lady Luck]

Lady luck Ritzki. I got you. I've had so much luck on spinquest.com they have all of my favorite games, slot games, live blackjack craps and bubble craps. You can even get a $30 coin pack for just 10 bucks.

[Spinquest Announcer]

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[Narrator/Storyteller]

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. Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver. There's trouble on the trail ahead.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Oh, Silver Hoy.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

The ranch house of Jeb Anderson was located in a strangely desolate section of the southwestern desert to the west. And immediately behind the sprawling cabin of spruce logs, there rose Mighty Oro Mountain. It was at the base of this peak that Jeb had tunneled his tiny one man gold mine. In the east and south, the horizon was guarded by the oddest stretch of wasteland in the world. Devil's Sink. True to its name, Devil's Sink comprised an endless maze of gullies, ravines, spires and rocky crags, all composed of dull and lifeless volcanic slag. Nothing lived in Devil's Sink, not even hardy mesquite or greasewood. Its barren wilderness seemed to have retained the scorching heat of a million blazing suns. And neither man nor beast ever ventured beyond its outer rim. Living within sight of such desolation didn't disturb Jeb Anderson. He was content to extract gold slowly from his tiny mine in Mount Oro. He smelted the ore by hand, just as the Indians had done thousands of years ago. And each night he added a little more of the shining yellow metal to the store he kept. Jeb was confident that no one else knew of his gold mine in Mount Oro. The people in the nearby town of Kingsford had long ago tagged him as just another solitary rancher. Consequently, he was surprised one night to be roused from his sleep by a loud pounding on the cabin door.

[Narrator]

Who is it?

[Duke Bandy]

Open up, the old coot.

[Narrator]

What do you want?

[Duke Bandy]

I said open the door.

[Narrator]

Ah, let's cave it in. Little hard, lad. Will fix that lock, Duke.

[Duke Bandy]

Halfway wasted. You'll open up around.

[Narrator]

Who are you?

[Duke Bandy]

We're Bashful, Grandpa. I hate to tell our names. Come on in, boys.

[Narrator]

What? What do you want?

[Duke Bandy]

Get this over with fast. Where's the gold?

[Narrator]

I. I don't know what you mean.

[Duke Bandy]

Yes, you do. Get behind him, Spider.

[Narrator]

Yeah, okay.

[Duke Bandy]

And if you don't talk fast, lay your gun barrel alongside that bald head of his. All right, Anderson, where's the gold?

[Narrator]

I have no gold. You're lying.

[Duke Bandy]

We've been watching you mine that hole in the hill for the past six months.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Oh, really?

[Narrator]

I'll gab all night. Duke. Maybe it'd be easier to fan this layout and find out for ourselves. Please, I. Sure, Duke. What are we stalling for?

[Duke Bandy]

We're gonna talk, Anderson.

[Narrator]

Oh, no, no, I can't tell you.

[Duke Bandy]

Let him have it, Spider.

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Duke Bandy]

Now, let's scrape this place from one end to the other.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah, yeah.

[Narrator]

Spider, look at those doors over there.

[Duke Bandy]

I'll take this.

[Narrator]

Here it is, Duke. Here it is. Look at this. Jumping Jehoson. Real gold Nuggets. Must be 10,000 there.

[Duke Bandy]

If it ain't worth twice that, I'll eat it. Come on, Pete, pick Up the sack and let's high tape.

[Narrator]

How about the old man? He's still alive.

[Duke Bandy]

Pete, that can over there. What's in it?

[Narrator]

Smells like coal oil.

[Duke Bandy]

Dump it. Be sure you get plenty on the walls and floor.

[Narrator]

I gotcha.

[Lone Ranger]

A match, Duke.

[Duke Bandy]

I've got one.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Come on.

[Duke Bandy]

This place will be hotter than double sink in about two minutes. Now give me that sack. I'll pack it here.

[Narrator]

It's kind of your Bronx boy. I don't think I hit the old coot hard enough to finish him, Duke.

[Duke Bandy]

Yeah, and maybe the job's not done yet. Hand me your carbine, Spider. With heat like that, it'll either fry or pop out of there.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Help me.

[Lone Ranger]

He's still alive, but not for long.

[Narrator]

Here he comes, Duke. See the front door?

[Duke Bandy]

I see him.

[Narrator]

That got him. Come on, boys.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

On the following morning, just as the sun peeped over the top of Mount Oro, two horsemen rode into the clearing that surrounded the blackened ruins of what had been Jeb Anderson's cabin. A quick glance told the entire story. A dead man lay sprawled grotesquely on the ground as though he had been killed while running. The horseman reined up sharply. Lone ranger wearing a disguise beneath his mask and his faithful Indian companion, Tonto.

[Lone Ranger]

Steady, big fellow. This looks like murder, Tato. Somebody fired the house and shot this man when he tried to escape.

[Narrator]

Plenty hoof marks on ground mean three, maybe four horse.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, and here. Look. Deep cut on his head. No, that wasn't made by a bullet. It must have been a fight. We only knew how.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You fellas what the behind. And don't make any funny moves unless you want a slug in your back.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't move, Taro.

[Narrator]

You've got mask on. They might faint.

[Lone Ranger]

You forget Kimo Sabi. I've got a disguise on.

[Jimmy Hightower]

All right, turn around. Keep your paws up. A masked man and an engine.

[Lone Ranger]

You don't mind my saying so, son. That gun's almost as big as you are.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Outlaws. Then it must have been you two.

[Lone Ranger]

I just showed up here a few minutes ago.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I don't care when you got here or who you are. I'm afoot and I need your horse. I'm taking it.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, you are? There are two of them. Which one do you want? The stallion or the paint?

[Jimmy Hightower]

What's the difference?

[Lone Ranger]

Quite a bit. Look over there. How? Which do you want?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Why? Oh, my hand.

[Lone Ranger]

You're not hurt, son. All I did was shoot your gun away. If you're going to hold someone up, you should remember to keep your eye on him.

[Jimmy Hightower]

All right, you Whip me with your draw. Now what?

[Lone Ranger]

What's your name?

[Jimmy Hightower]

I'm Jimmy Hightower. I got here at sunup and I saw that somebody had killed Uncle Jeb. Fired his house.

[Lone Ranger]

That dead man over there your uncle?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah.

[Lone Ranger]

Go on.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I was bringing back Uncle Jeb Sorrel pony. I borrowed it about a month ago.

[Lone Ranger]

Where's the horse now?

[Jimmy Hightower]

He ran off while I was looking over the house. That's why I needed one of yours.

[Lone Ranger]

Needed it bad enough to steal, is that it?

[Jimmy Hightower]

No. I'm already down for horse stealing. One more wouldn't make any difference.

[Lone Ranger]

Aren't you pretty young to be a horse thief?

[Jimmy Hightower]

You don't have to rub it in just because you happen to get in a lucky shot.

[Lone Ranger]

You think that shot that knocked your gun away was lucky, huh?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Couldn't have been anything else.

[Lone Ranger]

Look, Jimmy. See that stone well over there?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Lone Ranger]

See the tin can on the ground about 10ft this side of it?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah.

[Lone Ranger]

Eyeballists can put that tin can into

[Narrator]

the well, but the waller on that

[Jimmy Hightower]

cistern's almost three feet high.

[Lone Ranger]

Here, watch.

[Narrator]

Golly.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Say, that's the best shooting I ever saw. I'll bet even Duke Bandy couldn't do better than that.

[Lone Ranger]

Who's Duke Bendy?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Why, I thought everybody knew about him. He's the best gunfighter in this whole country.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, is that right?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Say, you've heard of the Lone Ranger, haven't you?

[Lone Ranger]

Seems that I have.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Well, he's supposed to be pretty fast with a pair of six guns. But Duke Bandy's a lot faster. At least that's what everybody says.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, I'd like to meet Mr. Bandy.

[Jimmy Hightower]

He's got a gang that holds up over in Devil's Sink. That's why the law can't catch him.

[Lone Ranger]

You know quite a bit about outlaws, don't you?

[Jimmy Hightower]

I guess it's cause I'm one myself.

[Lone Ranger]

You?

[Jimmy Hightower]

And so are you. You wouldn't be wearing that mask.

[Lone Ranger]

Maybe.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You see this horse I was bringing back to Uncle Jeb? I. I didn't really borrow it from him. I swiped it.

[Lone Ranger]

But you were bringing it back.

[Jimmy Hightower]

That didn't make any difference to my dad. He said I was a horse thief. And he's sheriff of this county. We live over in Kingsford. I mean, he does. I'm not going back.

[Lone Ranger]

Why?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Well, he'd never believe that cayuse Uncle Jebbs ran away. He'd think I sold the critter and put the money in my pocket.

[Lone Ranger]

I don't think he'd be that tough on you.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Well, you don't know my dad. He's half Indian. I'm quarter Indian. That's one reason I'm glad I'm getting away.

[Lone Ranger]

Most of the Indians I know are proud of it. My best friend's an Indian.

[Jimmy Hightower]

It's all right for you to say that, but look.

[Lone Ranger]

Those men coming up the draw. Can you see how many?

[Narrator]

Six, maybe seven. Them ride hard.

[Jimmy Hightower]

It's my dad with a posse. And it's me he's after. You better get out of here fast.

[Lone Ranger]

If you don't, I think we'll wait.

[Jimmy Hightower]

All right, I'm here, you bunch of bloodhounds.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Good thing we're headed this way. We heard the shots.

[Narrator]

Look yonder, Sheriff Anderson's house. Plumb fired out and there's Jeb on the ground.

[Sheriff Anderson]

I see it. I've got my own ideas. I don't play any favors, Jimmy. First was horse stealing. Now you're tied in on a murder and murder of your own Uncle Jeb.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I didn't kill Uncle Jeb. I just got here at sun up. I was bringing back his pony like you told me to.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Where is it?

[Narrator]

Ran away.

[Sheriff Anderson]

So you've added ly into your other crimes.

[Lone Ranger]

I think he's telling the truth, Sheriff. I believe him. My Indian friend and I got here just a few minutes after he did.

[Sheriff Anderson]

I'm not likely to take the word of a mask outlaw that I've cut red handed.

[Narrator]

He did? Yeah.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Sheriff, take the guns away from these men. Put them on the horses.

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You're loco, dad. These fellas didn't have anything to do with outlaws.

[Sheriff Anderson]

So are you. It's a good thing your mother didn't live to see you like this. But Dan, it had some of you men stay here. To take care of Barry and Jeff Anderson. Peters, got those two ombres ready.

[Narrator]

All set, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Anderson]

You lead off, I'll trade you. Come on, Jimmy, you're riding double with me.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Dad, you're making a mistake.

[Sheriff Anderson]

You do all your talking to Judge Crawford. All right, Peters, head for town.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

The Lone Ranger, Totto and young Jimmy Hightower. Found that justice moved swiftly in the little town of Kingsford. On the following morning, they appeared before Judge Crawford.

[Narrator]

And so, after considering all the evidence. I've arrived at a fair and just verdict. Jimmy Hightower, for your crime of horse stealing. I sentence you to five years in the territorial prison. The court quiet. And as far as this critter wearing a mask is concerned. And the Indian with him. The evidence proves them both guilty of murder and robbery. It is the sentence of this Court that tomorrow morning at sunrise they shall be hung by their necks until they're dead. Yeah. Guess that'll hold all three of you ombre until tomorrow morning.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, I'm sure it will. When do we eat?

[Narrator]

Not till supper time. That'll be your last meal. In the meantime, you can listen to what's going on outside. Hear it?

[Lone Ranger]

What's that building?

[Narrator]

A scaffold. One you and the redskin are gonna swing on. Nice sound, ain't it?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Gee, I got you into this.

[Lone Ranger]

Listen to me. Have you any idea who really killed your Uncle Jeb and robbed his house?

[Jimmy Hightower]

I don't know, but I'd bet anything it was Duke Bandy's game.

[Lone Ranger]

Where can we find them?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Can't. Even if we were out of here, they hole up in Devil's Sink.

[Duke Bandy]

I see.

[Lone Ranger]

Otto, give me that rawhide bell of yours if I want to make a slingshot.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Good.

[Lone Ranger]

Jimmy, scrape around here on the floor and find me a good sized stone slingshot.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Stone?

[Narrator]

Are you local?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Toto?

[Lone Ranger]

When that deputy brings our supper tonight, he'll probably make us stand at the back of the cell so we can't jump him. I want you to stand directly in front of me. Then when I yell, you duck so I can use the slingshot.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Mister, you're really loco if you think you can get out of here with a slingshot.

[Lone Ranger]

Jimmy, do you hear that hammering outside? Sure, but no chance is too great to keep from hanging at the end of one of those.

[Narrator]

Rop.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

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.

[Spinquest Announcer]

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[Lady Luck]

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[Spinquest Announcer]

10 bucks for 30. I'm headed over to spinquest.com right now. Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more detail.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Sam.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Now to continue our story. All day long, the Lone Ranger, Tonto and Jimmy Hightower waited in their jail cell and listened to the ominous thud of hammers that were completing the jail yard gallows. Finally, just at sundown, the hammering ceased and they knew that the scaffold was finished. Within a few hours, the masked man and his Indian friend would be blindfolded and led up 13 steps. Then ropes would be placed around their necks and death Would come swiftly and without mercy. Their only hope was a crude slingshot the Lone Ranger had fashioned from a rawhide belt.

[Jimmy Hightower]

It isn't fair. All you did was to stop and talk to me, and now you're going to die. If my dad was anything but a dumb idiot.

[Lone Ranger]

It isn't your fault, Jimmy. Or your father's either. He did exactly what he thought was right.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Suppose he did. That doesn't help now.

[Lone Ranger]

It might. Remember what I told you, Toto. Stand in front of me. Me? Do it. Here he comes. Be ready.

[Narrator]

Well, your armies don't look as chipper as you did this morning.

[Lone Ranger]

How did you expect us to look?

[Narrator]

You outlaws are all alike. Spock and nervy. The rope will take that out of you.

[Lone Ranger]

Maybe.

[Narrator]

Now get back there to the other end of the cell. I ain't taking any chances. Get back. I'm not going to give you any chance to jump me. I'm wise to those tricks. I'll set your grub down here. When I close the door, you can come up and get it. Now, if you just shut up. What the hell?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Oh, you did it. You beat him with that rock from your slingshot.

[Lone Ranger]

He's not hurt, but we'll have to hurry. I'm going to take these handcuffs. I have a plan I'm sure will work. Now, come on.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Finding their horses tied behind the jail, the Lone Ranger, Tonto and Jimmy Hightower made good their escape and rode hard for many miles. Finally, they reached the forbidding rim of Devil Sink. There, the masked man called a halt.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll rest here until sunrise. That is, Jimmy and I will. Otto, I want you to ride east. Take an important message.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Why?

[Narrator]

May take it.

[Lone Ranger]

Come here. If the moonlight's strong enough so I can see to write. Yes, I'm sure you'll be able to read this.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Where town I go.

[Lone Ranger]

The governor of the territory. You know where he is? Here. I'll read the message to you so you'll know how important it is. Territorial Governor. Dear sir, Jimmy Hightower, convicted of horse stealing, sentenced five years, deserves pardon. Please send it to Kingsford by messenger. Who bears this note. Now I've signed my name.

[Narrator]

Will governor do what you ask him?

[Lone Ranger]

I don't know, Tono. I hope so. He's helped me in the past. Maybe he will again.

[Narrator]

What you do now?

[Lone Ranger]

Find Duke Bandy. He's probably the one who murdered Jimmy's uncle.

[Narrator]

Maybe better Toto stay here and help.

[Lone Ranger]

No. Clearing Jimmy's name is just as important as clearing our own. Technically, he did steal his uncle's. Horse. He's been convicted. We need that pardon.

[Narrator]

Ah. Time to go get him Unscout.

[Lone Ranger]

All right, Silver,

[Jimmy Hightower]

where'd Toddle go?

[Lone Ranger]

Do a mighty important job. He'll meet us later. Steady, big fella.

[Jimmy Hightower]

And you and me are gonna wait here till sun up.

[Lone Ranger]

There's no use trying to find our way through Devil's Sink in the dark.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I guess you're right. Now, what about those handcuffs?

[Lone Ranger]

I think these handcuffs may help us locate Vandy's gang.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Help us? What do you mean?

[Lone Ranger]

How are you, Jimmy? We can't do anything till. Put those handcuffs on, Jimmy.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yes, sir. Now what do we do?

[Lone Ranger]

We haven't the slightest idea where Bandy's hideout is. So if we can't find him, let him find us.

[Jimmy Hightower]

What are you gonna.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah, like this. Do you understand?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Oh, sure.

[Lone Ranger]

See if I hear any signs of anyone.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Nary a sign yet.

[Narrator]

Hey, what are you two hombres trying to do?

[Lone Ranger]

Get your hands up. These chains won't stop me from using a gun masked.

[Narrator]

Now wait a minute, stranger, and take it easy. I spied you from across the ridge. Saw what you're doing.

[Lone Ranger]

What's it to you?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah, spying on us. If we thought you were a lawman, we ain't.

[Narrator]

In fact, I'm just the opposite. You might call me the same breed as you two. Yeah, sure. No need of us showing our teeth at each other. Come along with me and I'll get them irons off you.

[Lone Ranger]

Who are you?

[Narrator]

My handle's Pete Letterman.

[Lone Ranger]

Never heard of you.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You can't trust these jaspers in this neck of the woods.

[Narrator]

You've heard of Duke Demandy, ain't ye?

[Lone Ranger]

What of it?

[Narrator]

Well, I'm a part of his. We got a little cabin down on the floor of this sink. I know Duke. Like to meet you gents. You could get them cuffs off too.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, I. What do you say, Ken?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Well, might as well take a chance. But if this hombre tries any tricks, we'll plug him.

[Lone Ranger]

All right, lead the way to your cabin. The kid and I'll walk our horses and follow you.

[Narrator]

Sure. Come on.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

It took a good half hour for the little cavalcade to reach the bottom of Devil's Sink. The pathway was full of loops, turns and switchbacks. Finally they came in sight of a well concealed little cabin that was built close to a subterranean spring. This was the secret of Duke Van D's hideout. He had discovered water in the wilderness. He could live in the wasteland in which other men died of thirst. As they approached the cabin, a Small man with thick black hair and close set eyes stepped out of the door.

[Narrator]

Hey, Duke.

[Duke Bandy]

What's the idea?

[Narrator]

You won't need the shooting, Iron Duke. These gents are friends.

[Duke Bandy]

Yeah? Who says so?

[Narrator]

Look, I found them up on the rim trying to knock their bracelets off.

[Duke Bandy]

Masked man. Who are you?

[Lone Ranger]

I'm not used to names. Numbers are better.

[Duke Bandy]

Oh, jailbird, huh? Who's a button?

[Lone Ranger]

Just call him the Kid.

[Duke Bandy]

Well, I'll figure that out for myself. Let me see those cuffs you two are wearing.

[Lone Ranger]

Come here. Ever wear any yourself, Duke?

[Duke Bandy]

Oh, guess it's all right. Well, you might be lawman. Using them braces as a trick to sneak in here.

[Lone Ranger]

No, I never thought of that.

[Duke Bandy]

Where'd you bust out of?

[Lone Ranger]

Kingsford? We were in for murder.

[Duke Bandy]

Yeah? Who'd you beef?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Nobody but the law. Figured we killed a gent over by Mont Oro.

[Duke Bandy]

Mount Oro. Was the cabin burnt?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, what's so funny?

[Narrator]

You showing up here after being nailed for that job that was ours.

[Lone Ranger]

Is that right?

[Narrator]

Sure.

[Duke Bandy]

We grabbed all of that old coot's gold and drilled him when his house got too hot.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, I guess you hombres are all right.

[Duke Bandy]

Just unlucky, that's all. Get a chisel and knock off the hardware.

[Lone Ranger]

Feet.

[Narrator]

Sure, Duke. Got it right here. Hold them on this stump. There, that does it.

[Lone Ranger]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

Come here, kid.

[Lone Ranger]

Just the two of you here?

[Duke Bandy]

No, Spider's running up the horses. He'll be back pretty soon. I got a job on tonight.

[Lone Ranger]

Job? Where?

[Duke Bandy]

Place you just left Kingsford.

[Lone Ranger]

What's in Kingsford?

[Duke Bandy]

Not much. Bank, express office. Most of all, a sheriff.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Sheriff?

[Duke Bandy]

Yeah, an Injun sheriff That I don't like. Tonight I'm gonna tell him about it with lead.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You mean.

[Duke Bandy]

I'm gonna riddle that dumb redskin before he knows what's going on. You gents might as well come along. The more the better.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah, sure.

[Duke Bandy]

By the way, stranger, that's a nice set of peacemakers. You get in those holsters. Let me see one of them.

[Lone Ranger]

My guns sure

[Duke Bandy]

seem real fancy, ain't they? But they got good action. How do they break? Yes. Slick as a whistle, these bullets. Oh, I see.

[Lone Ranger]

What's the matter?

[Duke Bandy]

Put up your hands, you double cross and low down.

[Narrator]

Duke, what's wrong?

[Duke Bandy]

You almost fooled me, too. I should have known when I first saw you wearing a mask. But it didn't catch on until I saw the silver bullets. So you were gonna get in here and pull some of your lawman tricks, huh?

[Narrator]

Lawman? Who is this critter?

[Duke Bandy]

He's the lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger. So this is the critter.

[Lone Ranger]

Let him have it, Duke.

[Duke Bandy]

Oh, wait till we get back from Kingsford.

[Narrator]

But how are we gonna get the

[Duke Bandy]

stakes and some rope? Tie them both out in the sun. After about 10 hours, that 150 degree sun, there won't be enough left to plunge.

[Narrator]

Sure, Duke. I'll get the ropes and stakes.

[Duke Bandy]

The Lone Ranger. Well, mister, this is one time you run up against somebody smarter than you are. I'd like to see you about 2 o' clock this afternoon. Staked out in the middle of the sink,

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Duke Van DY proceeded with his murderous plan. The Lone Ranger and Jimmy were tied to large stakes face up toward the blazing desert sun. And as the long hours wore on, the torture was almost unbearable.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I don't think I can stand this much longer.

[Lone Ranger]

It's tough, Jimmy, but we've got to stand it. You've got to get out of here some way and warn your father.

[Jimmy Hightower]

You know, I've been thinking. The only reason a kid like me can't stand this is because I'm part Indian. And Indians are tough. I'm proud I'm an Indian.

[Lone Ranger]

Sure. Sure you are. And another thing, Jimmy, I.

[Jimmy Hightower]

What?

[Lone Ranger]

Listen. Thunder.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Yeah, thunder. And that means rain instead of the scorching sun?

[Lone Ranger]

More than that. If it rains hard, the ground will be soaked. Maybe soaked enough so we can pull up these steaks.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Lone Ranger]

Keep hoping, Jimmy.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

Within a half hour after the rain began to fall, the Lone Ranger and Jimmy Hightower had freed themselves from mistakes and were astride their horses that the outlaws were unable to catch.

[Lone Ranger]

Duke and his gang have a head start.

[Jimmy Hightower]

I know a shortcut.

[Lone Ranger]

Lead the way, Jimmy. Right. For all your worth.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Get up, boy.

[Narrator]

Come on, Silver.

[Jimmy Hightower]

We made it. And there's no sign of Duke and his gang yet.

[Narrator]

Right. Straight to your father's house.

[Jimmy Hightower]

It's right here.

[Narrator]

Ho. Ho.

[Duke Bandy]

Ho.

[Narrator]

Ho. Ho.

[Lone Ranger]

There's Duke now. Easy.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Quick.

[Lone Ranger]

We've got to warn your father. Into the house.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Dad.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Dad.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Jimmy and the Mayor. Swim quick.

[Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, Duke and these men are almost here. Got your rifle?

[Sheriff Anderson]

You an escaped prisoner?

[Jimmy Hightower]

Will you see dad?

[Sheriff Anderson]

Never mind explaining. If it's Duke's crud, I've got some shooting to do.

[Narrator]

Give up, sir? If we catch outnumbered.

[Lone Ranger]

Never mind. I'll get him.

[Narrator]

Oh, my arm.

[Sheriff Anderson]

I think I got one of them.

[Narrator]

Hold your fire. I'm fluid. Oh, my God.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Keep your hands up and walk this way, honey.

[Narrator]

Sheriff, we didn't know it was you. We thought it was like a lone ranger and a kid.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Here it is.

[Lone Ranger]

A surprise. Isn't it? Duke, I thought you too were. These are the men who killed and robbed Anderson. They boasted about it to Jimmy and me.

[Sheriff Anderson]

They're gilly, all right. I can see it in the faces. I guess we'll have use for that new gallows after all.

[Narrator]

What's going on here?

[Sheriff Anderson]

Yeah, Hello, Judge. I'm just arresting the real killers of Jeb Anderson. One of them is dead. These are the other two.

[Narrator]

But I thought it was me. Bring letter to Sheriff Here.

[Lone Ranger]

Go on, Sheriff, read it. I think I know what it says.

[Narrator]

Sheriff, convicting this masked man the Indian of murderer may have been a mistake. But your son Jimmy is still guilty of horse stealing. And he's got no right to be out of jail. Now, I take.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Read this.

[Narrator]

Glasses. You know I can't read without my glasses. What does it say?

[Sheriff Anderson]

Full pardon for Jimmy. It is signed by the Governor.

[Narrator]

The Governor.

[Sheriff Anderson]

I'm proud of you, son.

[Jimmy Hightower]

Well, not half as proud as I am of you, Dad. I wanted to. Hey, where'd he go? He and Toto, they've disappeared.

[Sheriff Anderson]

Whose shin? Who do you mean?

[Jimmy Hightower]

The best friend we'll ever have. The Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

Silver Boy. What's up everybody?

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[Narrator]

It's sam.

[Narrator/Storyteller]

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 Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

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