
Original Air Date: September 25, 1950Host: Andrew RhynesShow: The Lone RangerPhone: (707) 98 OTRDW (6-8739) Stars:• Brace Beemer (Lone Ranger)• John Todd (Tonto) Writer:• Fran Striker Producer:• George W. Trendle Music:• Ben Bonnell Exit music from: Ro...
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Unknown
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Foreign.
Andrew Rines
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Brace Beamer
A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust, and the hearty high silver the Lone Ranger.
Unknown
General.
Brace Beamer
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Brace Beamer
With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the daring and resourceful mask 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 hoof beats of the great horse. Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.
Unknown
Come on, Silver.
Let's go, big fella.
I am Silver.
Brace Beamer
The territory along the Rio Grande from the town of Eagle Pass northward to the mouth of the Posos river, where it joined the Rio Grande, had been terrorized for weeks by a band of outlaws who always managed to cleverly cover their trail.
Unknown
Lock the doors, take care of everybody.
Brace Beamer
As one small town after another felt the ravaging force of the outlaws, the name of the Darby gang spread throughout the territory, leaving fear and frustration in its wake. No one knew when or where the gang would strike. No one knew where they went after their terrorizing and devastating attack.
Unknown
I'm telling you, Sheriff, I'm moving out of this chair to a lobster talking bar. I got to admit that Derby gang's got me scared plenty. Maybe they might hit this place next. Don't know as I blame you much. Amos. Carnation. Take it. No sheriff in the territory's been able to trail that gang.
Brace Beamer
But in spite of the destruction and killings attributed to the Darby gang, one fact was notable. No woman or child was ever harmed. This fact was the topic of discussion as the Lone Ranger and Tottle rode leisurely along the trail to Eagle Pass.
Unknown
The outlaw gang is said to take its name from their leader, a daring type of fellow named Buzz Darby.
Ah, him plenty mean killer Kemosabi.
Yet he makes certain that in the raids, women and children are never harmed.
Ah, me hear about that.
Maybe that one good point in his favor will lead to his downfall.
Me not savvy.
It's just a thought I had that may help me plan his capture. Tonto, remember that brave young girl we saved from the stampede a few months ago? Her name is Sally Meadows.
Ah, her fine girl.
She now lives in Eagle Pass.
We go to Eagle Pass. Sea girl Kimasabi?
Brace Beamer
Yes.
Unknown
I'm going to ask her help in planning a trap for Darby and his gang. Later I'll tell you what that plan is. If we hurry, we'll make the outskirts of Eagle Pass by sundown.
Brace Beamer
At dusk, the Lone Ranger and Tottle arrived in the vicinity of Eagle Pass and pitched camp in the nearby hills. After supper, the Lone Ranger disguised himself so that he could appear without his mask. Then he and Tottle went into town to find Sally Meadows.
Unknown
Howdy, strangers.
Evening, Sheriff.
How. What brings you to Eagle Pass?
We came here to see a friend. Maybe you can tell me where she can be found. She?
Who you coming here to see?
Ms. Sally Meadows. Where does she live?
Well, you see, she's taking the whole town by storm with her singing and dancing at the opera house down in the next corner. She starts at 8:00 every night. You got half an hour before her performance starts, mister.
Well, thanks for the information. Come along, tell her. Adios, Sheriff.
Adios, mister.
Brace Beamer
A short time later, in her dressing room at the frame building the townspeople called the opera house, Sally Meadows was before a mirror, putting the last touches to her makeup.
Sally Meadows
There, now I'm ready. Sally, there's someone waiting to see you. He said it's important. Send him away, Aunt Emma. Each time I have to tell you, I don't want to see. This one's different. He didn't bring any candy or flowers like the others do. But tell me to give you. There now. Isn't that something? This is a bullet. A bullet of silver. I know. Now I know who he is. Of course I'll see him. Don't stand there, Aunt Emma. Get him. Hurry. He's waiting right outside the door. I'll tell him to come in, though it's hard to believe. She says she has seen it, so come right in.
Unknown
Thank you.
Sally Meadows
Here he is.
Unknown
Good evening, Ms. Meadows.
Sally Meadows
But you're not the one I expected. This is a trick.
Unknown
I had to come in disguise.
Sally Meadows
Of course. And your voice. I should have known.
Unknown
I'd hoped to talk to you alone.
Sally Meadows
I'll step outside and wait. Don't forget to watch the time, Sally. All right, Aunt Emma. It's been a long time since we met. But for You? I would have been trampled to death. I haven't forgotten.
Unknown
I have come to ask your help, Sally. It will be somewhat dangerous.
Sally Meadows
I faced dangers before. What is it you want me to do?
Unknown
I want you to help catch the bandit Buzz Darby and his gang.
Sally Meadows
Darby? Yes, I've heard of him. I'm ready, my friend.
Unknown
I knew I could count on your help. Well, I'll not keep you any longer. Now, after the performance, Tuttle and I'll meet you and we'll make our plans.
Brace Beamer
Several days later, in his hideout in the hill some miles north of Eagle Pass, Buzz Darby looked up from a game of solitaire as the door of his cabin opened and one of his men entered with a newspaper in his hand.
Unknown
Hey, bud, something on the front page of this newspaper that'll interest you. What's it say? Yeah, I'll read it for you. Now, listen to this show. Girl in Eagle Pass receives fabulous gift from unknown admirer. Well, I'll. Wait a minute. Let me read the rest. Here it says, Ms. Sally Meadows, famous singer and dancer at the Eagle Pass Opera House received a diamond necklace said to be worth a fortune. Miss Meadows wears the necklace constantly in spite of warnings that outlaws might attempt to steal it. She laughed at the warning, saying that even the notorious Buzz Darby would not dare such an attempt. Miss Meadows refused the name of the person they sent her the gift. So she says I wouldn't dare, huh? Yeah, I thought that part of it would interest you. That's not the point. Just don't like being laughed at, especially by a showgirl. You wouldn't think of raiding Eagle Pass, would you? Eagle Pass is larger than the towns we've raided. What's more, I've planted a man there says to stay away. Yeah, Tex told me. He went there and found out they were ready if we made a raid. I know. Tex told me about Sally Meadows before. He says she's very beautiful. You know, Pete, I thought of a plan that might help me get that necklace and give the laugh to that girl.
Brace Beamer
For several nights, the Lone Ranger and Tonto watched from the shadows near the opera house. And after each performance, they watched near Sally's rooming house. But without result. One evening several days later Sally entered a dressing room in a state of excitement.
Sally Meadows
Aunt Emma. Oh, Aunt Emma, I have wonderful news. What is it you're so excited about now? He's stopping at the hotel. Oh, I must find a way to meet him before he leaves. Who's stopping at the hotel? Who else but thee, Mr. Rutherford, director of the Kansas City Opera House. Is that so? Well, maybe he's come here to get you to sing in his opera. No, Aunt Emma. I found out he's been here two days, and he hasn't come to hear me sing. But I'll send him a note, Aunt Emma, and you'll take it to him right away. I'll get me paper and pen. It's a chance I don't want to overlook. I shall Write and ask Mr. Rutherford for an interview after the show tonight.
Brace Beamer
A short time later, in the best room the local hotel had to offer, the outlaw Buzz Darby, carefully dressed for his impersonation of an opera director, sat talking to his man, Texas, who had been spying in town for some time.
Unknown
Well, Buzz, I've spread the news. Well, I'm certain that Sally Meadows has heard about the great director, Mr. Rutherford. Yes, I hear everybody knows about it. I got to give you credit. Thanks. I'll see who it is.
Mr. Rutherford, a woman brought this note for you.
Said it was important.
Well, thank you. Thank you very much. Well, looks like my plan's working. This girl will be sorry she laughed at me. You can bet on that.
Brace Beamer
We'll continue our lone ranger adventure in just a moment.
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Sally Meadows
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Brace Beamer
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Sally Meadows
Feeling his Cheerios.
Unknown
Now.
Brace Beamer
To continue that night after the performance, Sally waited impatiently for the visit of the man she thought to be a great director.
Sally Meadows
Oh, Aunt Emma. Maybe he's changed his mind and won't come at all. The aunt Chicken. It's Mr. Rutherford. Do I look all right? He must be impressed. Oh, you look beautiful as ever, Sally. Now, don't worry, I'll let him in.
Brace Beamer
I again have seen.
Sally Meadows
Oh, come by, please. It's kind of you to call, Mr.
Unknown
Rutherford, now that I'm here. The pleasure is all mine, Miss Meadows.
Sally Meadows
Have you seen the show, Mr. Rutherford?
Unknown
Yes, and I've heard a lot about you.
Sally Meadows
Well, I thought, Mr. Rutherford, that perhaps you'd consider me for the Kansas City Opera House.
Unknown
Fortunately, I have a part for you, Miss Meadows. Well, I have to be assured that you'd stay once you arrive there.
Sally Meadows
Oh, of course.
Unknown
Maybe you and your aunt can meet me tomorrow at the address. We'll make the arrangements there and draw up the contract.
Sally Meadows
All right. We'll be there, Mr. Rutherford. You can count on that.
Brace Beamer
At noon the following day, Sally and her aunt set out on horseback for the river crossing a few miles west of town.
Sally Meadows
Mr. Rutherford said he'd have someone meet us at the river crossing to show us the way. Aunt Emma, someone's coming now. Whoa, honey. Do you think he's the one?
Unknown
Easy, boy. Afternoon, ma'am.
Sally Meadows
Good afternoon.
Unknown
I was supposed to meet you here and take you across, but.
Sally Meadows
But how do I know you? He's the man who brought the answer to your note last night. Sally. Oh, well, then it's all right. We'll cross the river with you.
Unknown
But we aren't going across, ma'am. We're taking the trail up the river on this side.
Sally Meadows
But that's not the directions Mr. Rutherford gave us.
Unknown
You sure fell for his line, just like we thought you would. This says you're taking the river trail.
Sally Meadows
Heaven Protectors. It's a gun. What's the meaning of this?
Unknown
The meaning is that I'm taking you to see the man you talk to last night. Buzz Darby.
Sally Meadows
Buzz Darby?
Unknown
Yeah. He's waiting at our hideout, and that's where we're going right now. All right, get moving. Get up.
Sally Meadows
Come on, get up.
Brace Beamer
Early that afternoon, Tato had gone to town and returned to the camp. He shared in the hills with a lone ranger who was again wearing his mask.
Unknown
Did you talk to Sally, Taro?
No, no. Me not get to see her. Me find out. Arrived from town with aunt. Me bring message. Girl leave for you, Kimazade.
Yeah, I see. My dear friend, I'm riding with that aunt. Piedra's just across the river this afternoon. We're meeting the great director, Mr. Rutherford. I'll be back for the show. Contact me if you have news of Darby. Dolly Meadow School.
Oh, me see Rutherford yesterday. Him from Kansas City. Him stay at hotel in town.
Oh. What does he look like?
Tall like you. Good looking, dark hair, black eyes, small mustache.
I see. From what I've heard, that description would almost fit Otto. I may be wrong, but I have a feeling Sally might be going into trouble. We'll follow her and her aunt across the river to Piedras. Here.
Brace Beamer
Silver.
Unknown
Oh. Pillar at opera house. Say girl planned to stop at blacksmith shop before her leave town. Get new shoe on horse.
I should make their trail easy to follow. Come on. Through there.
Brace Beamer
In his hideout far up the river, Buzz waited for Tex to bring Sally under. Aunt.
Unknown
They're here. Pete. This time I'll be the one who does the laughing. All right. Welcome, ladies.
Sally Meadows
How dare you do this? You tricked her. You said you were the opera director, Rutherford, but you're nothing but a filthy outlaw.
Unknown
You're beautiful even when you're angry.
Sally Meadows
If you know what's good for you, you let us go.
Unknown
You're safe enough, lady. But first, Sally, I. I'll have that necklace.
Sally Meadows
You may have it. Here.
Unknown
Thank you. It's good of you to be so agreeable.
Sally Meadows
Now it's my turn to laugh again. The necklace isn't real. It's made of fake stones.
Unknown
She's just saying that, Buzz. Don't believe it. No, she told the truth. What? These are not real diamonds. Oh, that's a dirty trick.
Sally Meadows
Valet's friends will catch up with you. Then you'll see a trick or two.
Unknown
We're not concerned about anyone getting to this place, lady. Those who try run to an ambush down the trail.
Sally Meadows
And what now? There's no further reason for keeping us here.
Unknown
You're beautiful, Sally. I've decided to take you with me.
Sally Meadows
I'm not going with you.
Unknown
That the preacher across the border who marry us? Regardless of what you say, Sally, we'll ride there tonight.
Brace Beamer
Meantime, the Lone Ranger and Tottle followed the trail that led to the outlaw hideout.
Unknown
Where you think them go? Key Musabi.
And why you think? The description you gave of that director, Fitz Darby, the outlaw.
Oh, then you think that's him.
I think Buzz Darby made a play for that necklace. So sorry he's wore a knife. Hello. Hello.
Me. Me. All right.
Bullet.
Gray shoulder.
The heavy undergrowth hides us for the moment. Those boulders just ahead will give us better protection. Come on, Silver. Easy.
Here, hold this. Me?
All right, now, the shots come behind that big cottonwood tree to the right. Return their fire. Toto, using both your guns and what you do, I'll crawl through the underbrush until I get beyond that big cottonwood and maybe I can get the drop on them. I'll start now. Toto, start firing to hold their tip.
The Mashman. He must have crawled through the underbrush and got behind us. I said reach.
Stop your gun.
Brace Beamer
Not me.
Unknown
My wrist. Don't shoot again. I'll drop my gun.
Both of you walk down with those boulders. Get moving.
Brace Beamer
A short time later, Tex entered the cabin where Buzz and the others were gathered.
Unknown
Well, Tex find out about the shooting. Went down to the fort roof, but Red and Jack weren't there. Don't move anyone. He's masked.
Sally Meadows
He's our friend. Or at last he's here.
Unknown
Mister, you can shoot only one at a time. Over there, Texas. A gun. There's Pete holding a gun. We'll all shoot at the same time. You can't get us all.
Sally Meadows
Wait. Wait.
Brace Beamer
Well, as Buzz looked at Sally as he suddenly smiled, then slowly walked to him for a moment, the girl stood in front of the outlaw with a soft look in her eyes and the smile still on her lips. The others watched as she slowly put her arms around his neck. The expression on Buzz's face changed from one of suspicion to that of triumph.
Unknown
As he said, oh, you really do like me.
Brace Beamer
Even as he spoke, Sally dropped her Arms down over his, momentarily pinning both of the outlaw's arms close to his body. At the same time, she cried out.
Sally Meadows
Cloud, get the Masman. I'll hold this no good outlaw.
Unknown
Go. Junior shot through the window.
Brace Beamer
Get out of my way. Buzz shoved Sally to the floor. And before he could bring his gun into play, the Lone Ranger sprang forward.
Unknown
I'll shuttle you.
Brace Beamer
The Lone Ranger had seen Tato appear in the open door with ready guns just before he had lunged at Buzz Darby. Tato kept the others covered while the masked man fought with the outlaw chief. Finally, the Lone Ranger landed a terrific punch to the jaw.
Unknown
This will finish you.
Wait.
Sally Meadows
Wait no more. I think the big, brave Buzz Darby has had enough.
Unknown
Oh, that plenty good fight. You all right, Kimasabi?
Yes, Taro. Your shot through the window kept me from getting a bullet in the back.
Someone come, Kimi.
I'll cover them.
We got a report of a mask on me riding this way. Then we heard the shooting. Hey, there's the masked man and Miss Meadow.
Sally Meadows
The masked man's a friend, sheriff. He and the Indian captured these outlaws. Buzz Darby's gang.
Unknown
Two more tied up behind some boulders just down the trail.
Great day. Buzz Darby and his gang. We're sure glad to get this gang of our good.
I'm glad Tom and I are able to help in their capture. Sally Meadows deserves a great deal of credit for the part she played. Well, we must go now. I know you can take care of these crooks and of the ladies.
We sure can, miss.
Let's go, Tuttle. Adios.
Sally Meadows
Adios. Well, Buzz Darby, there goes the man who planned a trap you with that necklace story. And it worked.
Unknown
You mean you and he were in on the plan together?
Sally Meadows
Yes.
Unknown
He's the one you really care for, huh? And you tricked me.
Sally Meadows
Whether I cared for him or not wouldn't make any difference. His life dedicated to protecting the west from men like you. That man is the Lone Ranger.
Unknown
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Brace Beamer
The Lone Ranger, a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated is produced by Trendall Campbell Muir Incorporated. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer, your announcer Fred Po. Listen to the Lone Ranger. Brought to you by special recording Mondays through Fridays at this same time.
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 the following ranch hand Steve who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com 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.
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Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns – "Downfall of Buzz Darby | The Lone Ranger (09-25-50)"
Introduction
In the episode titled "Downfall of Buzz Darby," hosted by Andrew Rines on the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, listeners are transported back to the thrilling days of the Wild West. This installment features a classic Lone Ranger adventure, meticulously restored to enhance the original audio quality, bringing to life the iconic sounds and captivating storytelling that defined the golden age of radio dramas. Released on March 25, 2025, this episode delves into the cunning plans of the outlaw Buzz Darby and the relentless pursuit by the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto.
Plot Summary
Introduction of Conflict
The episode sets the stage in the territory along the Rio Grande, spanning from Eagle Pass to the Posos River. A notorious outlaw gang, led by Buzz Darby, has been terrorizing the region for weeks, leaving destruction in their wake while notably sparing women and children. This selective cruelty becomes a pivotal point for the Lone Ranger's strategy.
Brace Beamer's Opening
At [01:47], Brace Beamer, the announcer portraying the Lone Ranger, introduces the familiar sounds of the West: "A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust, and the hearty high silver the Lone Ranger."
The Darby Gang's Reign
Brace Beamer narrates the havoc wreaked by Darby's gang: "As one small town after another felt the ravaging force of the outlaws, the name of the Darby gang spread throughout the territory, leaving fear and frustration in its wake" ([04:29]).
Strategizing Against Darby
The Lone Ranger and Tonto recognize a crucial aspect of Darby's operations: his reluctance to harm non-combatants. At [05:57], a dialogue highlights this strategy:
"Yet he makes certain that in the raids, women and children are never harmed." – [05:57]
This restraint provides the Ranger with a foothold to devise a plan, leveraging Sally Meadows' safety and her relationship with Darby.
Enlisting Sally Meadows
The Lone Ranger, disguised, seeks out Sally Meadows, a renowned singer at the Eagle Pass Opera House. Their meeting is marked by tension and revelation:
"I want you to help catch the bandit Buzz Darby and his gang." – [09:00]
Sally eagerly agrees, setting the stage for the trap.
Darby's Countermove
Buzz Darby, unaware of the Ranger's plans, attempts to exploit Sally Meadows by sending a fake diamond necklace as bait. At [09:39], he reads:
"Ms. Sally Meadows, famous singer and dancer at the Eagle Pass Opera House received a diamond necklace said to be worth a fortune."
His underestimation of Sally proves to be his undoing.
The Trap is Set
Despite initial surveillance yielding no results, the Lone Ranger and Tonto persist. Sally Meadows, anticipating Darby's move, orchestrates a clever trick by presenting a fake necklace, undermining Darby's confidence:
"The necklace isn't real. It's made of fake stones." – [19:27]
Climactic Showdown
The episode culminates in a dramatic confrontation at Darby's hideout. As Darby attempts to seize the necklace, Sally's deception and the Ranger's timely intervention lead to the downfall of the gang. A pivotal moment occurs when:
"I think the big, brave Buzz Darby has had enough." – [23:01]
The Ranger delivers a decisive blow to Darby, ensuring justice is served.
Character Highlights
The Lone Ranger: Embodies justice and strategic brilliance, utilizing intelligence and alliances to combat outlaw threats.
Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal companion, providing both assistance and tactical support during confrontations.
Buzz Darby: A cunning outlaw leader whose hubris and underestimation of his adversaries lead to his eventual defeat.
Sally Meadows: A resourceful and brave opera singer who plays a critical role in luring and trapping Darby, showcasing the strength and intelligence of women in the West.
Notable Quotes
Lone Ranger's Strategy:
"Maybe that one good point in his favor will lead to his downfall." – [06:12]
Sally's Resolve:
"I'll hold this no good outlaw." – [22:30]
Darby's Underestimation:
"You wouldn’t think of raiding Eagle Pass, would you? Eagle Pass is larger than the towns we've raided." – [09:42]
Climactic Assurance:
"The masked man's a friend, sheriff. He and the Indian captured these outlaws. Buzz Darby's gang." – [23:26]
Insights and Themes
Justice vs. Outlawry: The episode underscores the eternal struggle between lawmen and outlaws, highlighting the values of justice, courage, and moral integrity.
Cunning and Deception: Both the Lone Ranger and Buzz Darby employ deception, but whereas the Ranger uses it to protect and uphold justice, Darby's deceit leads to his downfall.
Collaboration and Trust: The alliance between the Lone Ranger, Tonto, and Sally Meadows exemplifies the power of collaboration and trust in overcoming formidable challenges.
Role of Women: Sally Meadows is portrayed as a pivotal character, demonstrating intelligence and bravery, challenging the stereotypical roles of women in Western narratives.
Conclusion
"Downfall of Buzz Darby" is a masterfully crafted episode that encapsulates the essence of classic Western radio dramas. Through rich storytelling, dynamic character interactions, and strategic confrontations, the episode delivers an engaging narrative that honors the legacy of iconic shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger. Enhanced by digital restoration, the episode offers a vivid and immersive listening experience, making it a must-listen for both longtime fans and newcomers to the genre.
Additional Information
Listeners can access this episode and over 80 others monthly at otrwesterns.com. For exclusive content and to become a ranch hand, visit their YouTube channel or follow their Facebook page. For inquiries or to leave a voicemail, contact them at podcast@otrwesterns.com or call 707-986-8739.
Note: This summary focuses solely on the core content of the radio drama, omitting advertisements, introductions, and outros as per the guidelines.