Drexel’s End | The Lone Ranger (03-09-42)

Summary

---

Podcast Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode: Drexel’s End | The Lone Ranger (03-09-42)
Date: February 9, 2026

---

Episode Overview

This episode transports listeners to the classic Lone Ranger radio drama “Drexel’s End” (originally aired in 1942), presented in digitally restored audio. The story revolves around the fall of Clark Drexel, a ruthless syndicate leader who has terrorized Deadwood. The Lone Ranger, aided by Tonto and the town’s sheriff, navigates a web of escape, cunning red herrings, arson, and double-crossing deputies to bring Drexel to justice. The episode is noted for its rich atmosphere, suspenseful pacing, and insightful commentary on justice and frontier ethics.

---

Key Discussion Points and Story Beats

1. Drexel’s Arrest and the Anxiety of the Sheriff

• Background: Clark Drexel, notorious for corruption and intimidation, is finally imprisoned thanks to the Lone Ranger’s efforts.
• Sheriff’s Worry: Sheriff Glenn Bush is uneasy, fearing Drexel’s wealth will corrupt even the best men in town and facilitate escape.
  • “There’s mighty few men that can’t be tempted if there’s enough money around. And Drexel knows he’ll probably be sentenced to hang.”—Sheriff, [04:05]

2. Drexel’s Jailbreak

• Drexel eludes capture once again, sawing through the bars with outside help, confirming the sheriff’s suspicions.
  • “He’s free. He got out of the jail. I knew it.”—Sheriff, [04:58]
• The hound dog tracks Drexel to the livery stable, where the Lone Ranger and Tonto discover Jackson, the stablekeeper, was knocked out.

3. False Trail and Drexel’s Deception

• The posse believes Drexel has fled into the hills, but a chance encounter with Lem Callaway reveals Drexel double-backed to town using a horse-switching ruse.
  • “That means that Drexel went right straight back to Deadwood. He’s throwed us off the trail as neat as you please.”—Sheriff, [12:26]

4. The Syndicate Office Fire

• Flames erupt in the Drexel Mining Syndicate building—a key plot twist.
  • “Another do but let it burn. Look at those flames to the roof. They must be a mile high.”—Townsman, [13:24]
• All records and supposed Drexel himself seem to perish in the fire. Personal effects are found, suggesting his demise.

5. The Lone Ranger’s Suspicion and Plan

• The Lone Ranger deduces Drexel faked his death, mailing the vital records east to retain control of his wealth and land.
  • “I mean that Drexel set that fire on purpose. That’s why he doubled back to town after he got away...”—Lone Ranger, [18:14]
• He devises a sting: fake robbing the eastbound stage carrying Drexel’s records, then pose as an “Easterner” in town to draw out Drexel or his accomplice.
  • “I’m going to rob the stage.”—Lone Ranger, [19:04]
  • “Drexel won’t let me get away with that. He’ll either come himself or send someone to get me out of the way.”—Lone Ranger, [20:04]

6. The Double-Cross and the Sheriff’s Trap

• Deputy Buck, Drexel's accomplice, tells the stage guard to shoot for real during the holdup, hoping to kill the Lone Ranger.
• The sheriff confronts Buck, unraveling the betrayal when Buck refuses to ride with the Lone Ranger, fearing deadly crossfire.
  • “You wouldn’t go because the guard was going to shoot to kill. That guard was told to play along with whoever approached him.”—Lone Ranger, [26:03]

7. Deadwood’s Lawmen Close In

• Buck confesses and leads the sheriff and posse to Drexel’s hideout, a remote hunter’s cabin.
• Drexel tries to escape but is cornered and killed in a final attempt to flee.

8. Justice Restored and Departure

• With Drexel’s syndicate finished, the Lone Ranger and Tonto quietly take their leave, their mission complete.
  • “Well, that’s it, Tonto. Ah, work here. All done now.”—Lone Ranger, [27:25]

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Sheriff’s Realism About Corruption:
  “There’s mighty few men that can’t be tempted if there’s enough money around. And Drexel knows he’ll probably be sentenced to hang. At least you get life in jail. He can spend any amount of cash for his freedom and consider it worthwhile.”—Sheriff Glenn Bush, [04:05]

• Lone Ranger’s Deductive Insight:
  “I mean that Drexel set that fire on purpose. That’s why he doubled back to town after he got away… he put all the important records into a bundle because he didn’t want to lose his property. Then burned his self… I don’t think Drexel was near the fire after he started it.”—Lone Ranger, [18:14–18:27]

• The Classic Plot Twist:
  “That means that Drexel went right straight back to Deadwood. He’s throwed us off the trail as neat as you please.”—Sheriff, [12:26]

• Revelation and Confrontation:
  “You wouldn’t go because the guard was going to shoot to kill. That guard was told to play along with whoever approached him. You want to confess or go with me and see what happens?”—Lone Ranger, [26:03]

• Resolution:
  “Well, that’s it, Tonto… work here. All done now. Yes, Clark Drexel is finally paid in full. Come, Tonto. They don’t need us now.”—Lone Ranger, [27:25]

---

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [01:28] – Opening narration and set-up for Drexel’s arrest
• [04:05] – Sheriff expresses concern about Drexel’s resources
• [04:58] – Drexel’s jailbreak and the first tense mobilization
• [11:10] – The posse discovers Drexel’s ruse and change of direction
• [13:01] – Fire at the Drexel office discovered
• [16:01] – Aftermath of the fire; discovery of jewelry
• [18:14] – The Lone Ranger’s deduction and plan revealed
• [19:04] – Outline of the fake stage robbery scheme
• [22:11] – Drexel and Buck’s secret meeting, treachery solidified
• [25:57] – Confrontation of Buck by the sheriff and Lone Ranger
• [27:03] – Final showdown at the cabin; Drexel’s end
• [27:25] – The Lone Ranger and Tonto depart, justice served

---

Final Thoughts

This episode delivers classic Lone Ranger suspense and moral clarity, enhanced by meticulous audio restoration and brisk, immersive storytelling. The narrative’s twists (Drexel’s escape, the arson/red herring, a mole inside law enforcement) and the Lone Ranger’s clever stratagem drive home the ethos of relentless justice often glorified in OTR Westerns. The interplay between the Lone Ranger, Tonto, and the world-weary but honest sheriff provides a compelling depiction of frontier honor and cunning.

For listeners old and new, this is a standout Lone Ranger adventure — full of tension, plot reversals, and that signature call: “Hi-Yo Silver, away!”

---

Transcript

[A]

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

[B]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, the cloud of dust and a hearty higho. Silver the Lone Ranger. When gold was discovered in the Black Hills, a new wave of emigration swept into the western United States. Along with the honest settlers came gamblers, criminals and confidence men, and the mining towns ran wide open. It was in the hills that the Lone Ranger led the fight against the powerful and ruthless Drexel syndicate. And it was only his strength and courage that made possible the victory of right over Might return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse. Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[C]

Come on, Silver.

[D]

We're heading for Deadwood.

[C]

I'll Silver.

[B]

Clark Drexel, head of the Drexel Gold Mining Syndicate, was finally jailed through the efforts of the Lone Ranger. His capture and the events that led up to it furnished excitement enough to last the people of Deadwood for many weeks. Vexil was the subject of discussion in every cafe, on every porch, wherever men gathered. I don't know what we'd have done about him if it hadn't been for the Lone Rangers.

[E]

Too bad the Lone Rangers rode away.

[D]

Ain't it, though?

[C]

I wish you'd stay here and settle down.

[F]

Yeah, there's plenty of men would split.

[E]

Their claims with him if he'd stay here. Shucks, the Lone Ranger, he don't want gold mines.

[F]

How long do you think it'll be before Drexel hangs?

[E]

Oh, I don't know. Hope he does hang. He's got it coming.

[B]

Few people stopped to think that Drexel had become powerful because of his cleverness. Even while they Talked Clark Drexel was making plans for his escape. The sheriff, Glenn Bush, was the only man who felt concerned.

[G]

Here's your slippers, Glenn. Get those boots off now and settle yourself for my sake. Stop your worrying.

[E]

I'll keep my boots on till bedtime, Martha. No telling what'll happen.

[G]

You're not figuring on going out again tonight.

[E]

You never can tell.

[G]

My sake's a lie. You've been worrying and fretting till you're losing weight.

[E]

It's Drexel.

[G]

But he's in jail.

[E]

Well, now he is.

[G]

Well, he'll stay there. You got good men on guard. The lock on the jail's the best that can be had.

[E]

Good men are on guard, Martha. But Drexel has a mighty lot of money.

[G]

What of it?

[E]

There's mighty few men that can't be tempted if there's enough money around. And Drexel knows he'll probably be sentenced to hang. At least you get life in jail. He can spend any amount of cash for his freedom and consider it worthwhile.

[G]

There's nothing you can do about it. If he gets out of jail, you'll have to bring him back, that's all.

[E]

That's a plenty. If he gets out, we'll never find him.

[G]

All right, then you won't. But you won't be blamed. You can't be expected to be on the job 24 hours a day.

[E]

Why not?

[G]

Have you took leave of your senses?

[E]

If the Lone Ranger hadn't been on the job 24 hours a day, Grexel would never have been caught. Why should the Lone Ranger do that? Because he likes the idea of fair dealing and straight playing. Well, I'm paid to help keep law in order. He's not. If he can risk his neck helping me get Drexel behind bars by juniper, I'm going to do my best to keep him there.

[G]

Oh, there's no arguing with you.

[E]

Someone's stopping outside.

[D]

Who?

[G]

It is more than one horse reined up there.

[C]

Sheriff.

[E]

Sheriff, you better come fast.

[F]

Hurry, Sheriff.

[E]

We need your bed. What's the matter? Is it Drexel? How'd you know? Is it Drexel? Yeah. He's freeze. He got out of the chain. I knew it. Martha tossed my hat. Here. Hurry up and don't stand there. Be right with you, boys. How'd he get out? Oh, he had help. Who? We don't know. No shooting?

[F]

Nope.

[D]

Use your hand, buck.

[E]

Saddle up my horse and bring it along. I'll ride to the jail with Pete. On your horse? Right. I'll Go right to. How long has he been out?

[F]

Oh, we don't know. It might have been a couple hours.

[E]

Pete, I'll go straight to the jail. You go to Hank Sanders and bar his hound dog. Fetch it along in a hurry. Oh, boy. Get along there.

[C]

Come on, get.

[E]

He's toed through the bars. You can see where he cut him.

[F]

No one saw him since he was given his grub at sunset.

[E]

He might have been gone for a couple hours. Dread it all. After all the trouble we had in getting the crook. He'll never be found in the hills. Here comes Hank and Pete. Hank's got his hound off. All right, quiet down, all of you. Shut up. Can't hear myself think with so much gabbing going on. Now, let me have the true facts. You, Steve, Tell them to me and make them short. There's mighty little to tell, Sheriff. I took Drexler's grub at sunset. The plate of bully is still on the table. He never touched it. And then if you look in on him after that.

[D]

Well, I didn't.

[E]

Me neither. I didn't think it was necessary. All right, go ahead, Steve. What's the rest? Well, I was going off guard duty. Pete had come up to take my place. I took a look to make sure Drexel was all right. And he was gone.

[F]

Yeah.

[E]

Then I noticed we had sawed through the bars of the wind. He got hold of a saw somewhere.

[D]

Yeah.

[E]

Fine thing, Hank. Bring your hound around here? Any of you fellas got any of that stuff we took from Drexel? Yeah, I thought you'd need something. Here's his riding gloves. Give the hound a whiff and see if he can get a scent and follow it. I'll take charge of the dog, Hank. Here you are, fella. Dog looks like he's got the scent. Come on. Follow him and hang on to that leaf.

[B]

At that moment, the Lone Ranger and Tonto were riding toward Deadwood. As they reached the outskirts of town.

[D]

There's a light in the livery stable, Tonto. We won't have to go into town. We can stop there and find out from Jackson if there's any news.

[E]

That. Good idea.

[D]

Then we'll make camp at the spring.

[E]

You look. Door open? Yes.

[D]

That's Jackson standing there. What's the matter with him?

[E]

Him hold on to door. I like him.

[C]

He's falling down. Jackson.

[E]

Him hurt? Maybe.

[A]

There.

[E]

Silver's Teddy boy.

[D]

He's unconscious. Someone hit him over the head.

[F]

That bad?

[E]

Mark.

[D]

Now he's coming to. Trying to say something.

[E]

Drexel.

[D]

Drexel quick. Kimosaba, get some water. I'll carry him into the office. You got to find out what happened.

[B]

The dog led the sheriff and his deputies to the edge of town and stopped in front of a livery stable door.

[E]

Peach, you come with me. He's in there sure as you're born. Buck, you and Steve go around to the rear. See that he don't get out the back way.

[D]

Right.

[F]

Come on, Steve.

[E]

Yeah. Keep that dog quiet.

[B]

Quiet.

[E]

Quiet, boy. Get your gun ready, Pete. Yeah.

[F]

Right.

[E]

Rest of you keep back. There might be lead flying. Faster. Vexel's got himself a gun. Now stand ready, Pete. I'll kick the door open. I'm ready. All right, throw up your hand. You're covered. Make a move and we'll shoot.

[D]

Take it easy, Sheriff.

[E]

The masked man. The Lone Ranger.

[D]

I've had him. Close the door.

[C]

Hey, Sheriff.

[E]

Sheriff, there's two horses in the back. Yeah. One of them's white, like the Lone Rangers. Oh, he's here. What's the matter with Jackson?

[D]

He's been knocked down, but he's not seriously hurt. Tyler's fixing him up.

[E]

We followed Drex's trail to here. He's out of the jail.

[D]

Yes, I know it. But this time he's well up in the mountains with the best horse Jackson had.

[E]

Here he is.

[D]

Jackson's watch was smashed when he fell. That was over an hour ago.

[E]

With that much of a start, there's not much chance the dog won't help.

[D]

Jackson won't leave a trail the dog can follow.

[E]

Drat it all. If only someone had seen him. Get out and drill. The coyote.

[D]

How is Jackson?

[B]

Him be all right plenty quick now.

[E]

But I thought you'd gone away. I thought we'd seen the last of you. I'm doggone glad you're back. But how did you know about Sheriff?

[D]

Drexel will be dangerous as long as he lives.

[E]

I know, but how?

[D]

I don't want to leave the Black Hills until I see him. Tried and sentenced to a federal prison, hun.

[F]

Yeah.

[D]

It isn't going to be easy to find him now. He not only knows the hills around here, but he can force most of the miners to help him.

[E]

You mean because he holds most of the mortgages on their property?

[D]

Yes. Drexel can spend a fortune to buy help.

[E]

I reckon you're right there. I said something along the same line less than an hour ago.

[D]

They may have to search the property of every man in the Black Hills before Drexel is found.

[E]

And by juniper, we'll do that unless.

[D]

Well, what do you mean, Sheriff?

[E]

Well, Countle can follow a trail that can't be seen by anyone else. You think there's a chance that we could trail Drexel?

[D]

We're going to try, but we can't start until daybreak. Why?

[E]

Then he'll have gotten where he's going.

[D]

You be ready, Sheriff. And bring two of your best men with you.

[F]

Right.

[E]

He'll be ready at daybreak. Me and Pete and Steve. Now, what can be done about poor Jackson?

[D]

Get him in bed and keep him there for a couple of days. He'll be as good as new. Come along, cuddle.

[F]

Huh? Me?

[A]

Ready?

[D]

We see you at daybreak, Sheriff.

[E]

Sheriff, have you noticed the Lone Ranger in Tano? Sure. I've kept my eyes on him ever since we started up this trail.

[D]

Why?

[E]

Well, that redskin has been pointing to the trail a lot and calling the Lone Ranger's attention to things he's seen.

[F]

What about it?

[E]

It strikes me he's not sure we're on the track of Drexel. I'll shove ahead and find out.

[F]

Come on, boy.

[E]

How are things going, Sheriff?

[D]

Have you been watching the trail?

[E]

Sometimes. Not always.

[F]

Why?

[D]

The first track going downhill as well as the one going up.

[E]

What of it?

[D]

Thinks the downhill track was made about the same time as the one we're following.

[E]

Last night?

[D]

Yes.

[E]

What's that mean?

[D]

Someone who came into town last night must have passed Drexel.

[E]

I wonder who came in. I didn't hear of anyone.

[D]

Might have been one of the prospectors. They come and go from town quite often.

[E]

Might be.

[B]

Look ahead.

[E]

Smoke. Campfire there. Hey, there's a fire up ahead. Maybe that's Drexel.

[D]

We'll soon find out.

[C]

Come on.

[E]

Keep your guns ready to use.

[C]

That must be Drexel.

[E]

The tracks lead right to that rock where the smoke is coming up.

[D]

There's a man coming out to see us.

[E]

That's not Drexel. Oh, boy.

[F]

Hey, you.

[E]

Come here. We want to talk with you.

[C]

Howdy, Sheriff. What's your matter?

[E]

What's your name?

[F]

Me?

[C]

I'm Lem Callaway. Why Callaway.

[B]

Look, Sheriff.

[E]

That's one of Jackson's horses. Where'd you get that horse?

[C]

I swapped him. Now, don't tell me that he's a stolen animal.

[E]

That's just what he is.

[C]

Oh, now, if that don't beat all for luck. I know my luck was too good to last that man's mast.

[D]

Lem, when did you get the horse?

[C]

Last night. I was riding for Deadwood to get me Some supplies when I met a gent riding up the trail. He stopped me and saw where my horse was just about stove in and done for. He offered to swap horses and give me the supplies he had if I'd keep away from town.

[D]

Did he say why he wanted you to keep away from town?

[C]

No, sir. And I didn't ask too many questions. I was glad to get this horse.

[D]

So you took his horse and rode uphill in the direction he'd been riding?

[C]

Yes.

[D]

So he took your horse and rode downhill?

[E]

Yup.

[C]

Say, Sheriff, did I do something wrong?

[E]

That means that Drexel went right straight back to Deadwood. He's throwed us off the trail as neat as you please.

[D]

Sheriff, take charge of this man. He may be able to tell us more.

[A]

Oh, no.

[C]

Now, you can't arrest me.

[D]

Who can't?

[E]

You've been receiving stolen property. If your story is true, we'll let you go.

[C]

But, dad. Radger, come on.

[D]

I'm going back to Deadwood. Sheriff Drexel's up to something. Ah, him plenty smart.

[E]

Hey, look downhill. Look down where the town is.

[C]

Great gun. Smoke.

[D]

Fire there. Plenty big fire. Come on, fellow, clean him up.

[C]

Scout 1 Silver J.

[B]

Lone Ranger and TTO Raised at breakneck speed toward Deadwood, watching the smoke and flames that rose from the center of town. The wooden building that held the office of the Drexel Mining Syndicate was a mass of flames. The buckets of water thrown onto the townsman had no effect at all. The dry wood crackled and the fierce heat drove everyone back fully 100 yards.

[F]

Another do but let it burn. Look at those flames to the roof. They must be a mile high.

[E]

How it start? Start it all over at once. Get water on those other buildings. Soon the roof collapsed.

[B]

Red sparks leaked above the smoke and flames. Then the walls of the building caved in. By the time the Lone Ranger and Tonto arrived, there was little left for the mass of embers.

[F]

Well, he's done for. Maybe it's a good thing.

[D]

Who are you talking about?

[F]

Doc Drexel.

[D]

Was he in there when the building caught fire?

[F]

That's what they tell me.

[D]

He was. He's beyond help now. Flame die out plenty soon now and we find out. When did this fire start?

[F]

It seems that it started a short time after you and the sheriff went out on the trail.

[D]

And Drexel might have gotten into his office during the night. But right now I want to find out why he came back and what started that fire. Yes, I want to know whether Drexel's Dead or alive.

[B]

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.

[C]

Sam. It.

[B]

Now to continue our story. The Drexel office was a cold mass of burned wood. The sheriff's men examined the ruins carefully. And then the lawman stated, I guess.

[E]

There'S no question about Drexel being dead now.

[D]

How sure are you, Sheriff?

[E]

Here, take a look at the jewelry that was found in the ruins. There's a belt buckle and cufflinks. I remember Drexel wearing these.

[F]

Me too. I remember those cufflinks. He had them on when he was in the jail. Yeah, Drexel is finished, that's sure.

[E]

I guess all the records of the syndicate was burned up, too. Now nobody will know who owed Drexel money or what land he owed or held mortgages on or anything else.

[D]

Drexel must have an heir, huh? Someone who will inherit his money.

[E]

And I reckon all his relatives, if he's got any, are in the East.

[D]

Yes, there are other members of his firm. They're in the east, too.

[E]

Well, nothing to do but wait till someone shows up to lay claim to the property.

[D]

See you later, Sheriff.

[E]

Where are you going now?

[D]

The stage office.

[E]

Stage office? For what? You don't figure on leaving your horse here and taking the stage east, do you?

[D]

Oh, I want to look at the packages that are waiting for the next stage. I'll go along. Sheriff, Suppose I wanted to send a package to someone in the East. What would I do with it?

[E]

Put the address on it and leave it in the office. The stage don't stop every day, so there's no point in having the agent there all the time. That's why the window's fixed, so people can drop packages in. There's a window seat.

[D]

Yes. Can you open the office?

[B]

Sure.

[E]

I've got keys to every place in town. Have to have them in the line of duty.

[D]

When does the next eastbound stage stop here?

[E]

They're due tomorrow.

[D]

Why? Just wondered.

[E]

I'll have this door open and at your feet. There you are. Smells a little musty in here. Door hasn't been open for three days.

[D]

Is this the pile of packages for these?

[F]

Yep.

[E]

There are all kinds of stuff here. Some of it's mail. The agent is postmaster, too, you know.

[D]

Yes, I know.

[E]

Some of the stuff is for the Wells Fargo line. You looking for something in particular?

[D]

Yes, Sheriff, I am.

[E]

If you give me an idea what you're after, maybe I could help.

[D]

I'll have to recognize it by the handwriting, Sheriff. Here. This might be what I'm after.

[E]

Addressed to some critter in Chicago.

[D]

Right on top, too. Happened to mean that it was one of the last things put through the window. That's right. Probably late last night. Early this morning.

[E]

See here.

[D]

How possibly put here by Clark Drexel.

[E]

Say, do you think so?

[D]

Shouting is very much like his. Might be his. Well, doggone, Sheriff, a little while ago you told me that without the records in the Drexel office, it would be impossible to know who owed money or what mortgages Drexel held. Sure. I think you'll find that information in this package.

[E]

You mean.

[D]

I mean that Drexel set that fire on purpose. That's why he doubled back to town after he got away. He put all the important records into a bundle because he didn't want to lose his property.

[E]

Then burned his cell phone.

[D]

I don't think Drexel was near the fire after he started it.

[F]

Great day.

[E]

He set the fire and threw his jewelry in to make it look like.

[D]

He was gone and disappeared. Now we haven't a chance of trailing him. He might have taken any one of a dozen directions from town.

[F]

Doggone. But what can we do about it?

[D]

I don't know yet.

[E]

And he can't lay claim to his property. He can't come back here very well.

[D]

I don't think he'll be far away for a few days.

[F]

Why?

[D]

You want to be sure his valuable package is taken to the stage. Furthermore, he can't travel far without a horse. You'll know what happens around here.

[E]

What are you planning to do, Sheriff?

[D]

Call a meeting of your deputies and let me speak to them. I'll outline my plan and ask them to help out. All right.

[E]

What is your plan?

[D]

I. I'm going to rob the stage.

[E]

All right, boys, quiet down now. Quiet down. Let the Lone Ranger outline his scheme.

[F]

Better be a good un.

[E]

Drexel is plenty slick.

[F]

I still think he burned in that fire. Me, too.

[E]

Quiet, boys. Go on, tell him your scheme.

[D]

I'm going to hold up the stage and take the package Drexel left. I think Drexel will hear about the robbery and he'll know his package is gone. And a few days later a stranger will come into Deadwood. On the stage, a stranger will look and talk like an Eastern egg.

[E]

And it'll be you, Wayne.

[F]

Buck.

[E]

Keep still and let him go on.

[D]

I'm sorry. Yes, I'll be posing as Easterner. I'll have the records with me and I'll start collecting the cash. I'll settle for half of what Drexel has coming. I'll sell mortgages cheap. Sell gold mines for less than Drexel paid for them. I'll get all the cash I can.

[C]

What's to be gained with that?

[D]

Drexel won't let me get away with that. He'll either come himself or send someone to get me out of the way.

[E]

But maybe he won't.

[C]

He won't dash, show us how.

[F]

Yeah, there'd be too much risk.

[E]

Well, anyway, how could he get.

[D]

You remember, Drexel has friends.

[F]

Yeah, that's right.

[D]

Someone helped him get out of jail by getting that saw to him. We don't know who it is, but someone in this town is willing to help Drexel. He could have that man make a play to get me without coming to town himself.

[E]

The Lone Ranger scheme is worth trying anyhow. We're going to do it.

[D]

The sheriff will tell the guard and driver of the stage what we're doing so they won't shoot too straight when I stop the stage.

[E]

We wanted you deputies to know what was going on so when you heard of the stage being held up, you wouldn't go gunning for the masked man too fast. Now, is everything clear? Well, that guard is a dead shot, Sheriff.

[F]

You better be sure and tell him what's to be done.

[E]

Well, tell him, Steve. You needn't worry about the guard. He won't shoot straight at the Lone Ranger. Be too bad if he did. He never misses.

[B]

That night when the town slept, one of the sheriff's deputies slipped quietly beyond.

[F]

The outskirts to a small hunter's cabin.

[B]

That had been abandoned for many years. No light showed in the cabin, but the deputy knew someone was there. He waited outside the door, listening intently in the darkness.

[F]

When he was sure that no one had followed him, he tapped softly and the door opened.

[D]

Buck.

[F]

Yeah. Come on. Get in. Hurry. You keep him comfortable here, Mr. Jackson?

[D]

Not very, but I can tolerate some discomfort.

[F]

How are things in Edward? Everything would be fine if it wasn't for that Lone Ranger. Now what? You don't think you died in the fire.

[D]

Confound him.

[F]

Found that package of stuff you left for the stage. He recognized your handwriting on it. He did? Yeah. Now he's got a scheme all coked up.

[D]

Does he know what my plans are?

[F]

He's seen right through them. He knew you'd send the records to someone so they wouldn't be lost. Then someone can come here and run the office while you went back east and fixed up a deal with Whoever inherits your money, so you keep drawing on your cash. I don't know how you reasoned it all out.

[D]

All it took was common sense. If he was sure I hadn't burned to death, he'd know the only move I could make.

[F]

What's he going to do about it? Make believe to rob the stage. Get that stuff of yours from it. He figures you'll hear about it. Oh, he figures I'll hear about it, huh?

[D]

Well, then what?

[F]

Then he plans to pose as an Easterner and come to your office. Or you'll come out of hiding to get rid of. Does he suspect you're working for me? He's got a hunch at someone. He is. He figures that whoever you send to get rid of him will know where you are. If he captures your friend, he can get you.

[D]

What else can you tell me?

[F]

The sheriff is fixing it with a guard and drive with the stage. When the masked man sticks it up, they'll know the holdup is a fake and they won't shoot to hurt him. Now, look, I've got an idea. Mr. Drexel. Yes? I'll talk to the garden driver after the sheriff finishes. I'll tell him that there's really gonna be a holdup. Tell him to really shoot to kill.

[D]

Will I listen to you?

[F]

I'll fix it so they will. You leave that to me. The Lone Ranger don't know it yet, but when he stops that stage, the next thing you'll stop will be bullets.

[B]

Two days later, the stage was loaded and ready to set out from Deadwood, heading east. In the small office of the stage line, the guards sat listening to Deputy Bill.

[F]

Of course, Yard, you can do what you like, but I'm giving you the true facts. The sheriff has been took in. You'd feel mighty foolish letting the stage be robbed, wouldn't you? Yeah, I reckon I would. But you'd be blamed for it too. Maybe charged with being in cahoots with the robbers. But on the other hand, if you do what the stage line pays you to do and shoot first, you'll be in the clear.

[D]

Sheriff would be sore if he was.

[F]

Right about what he said. What if the sheriff is sore? He'd have to get over it. That's all besought. Me too. But he can't do anything about it. All right, Buck. I'll shoot to kill.

[D]

Fine.

[F]

Fine. Of course I'm selfish about this. I admit it. If you get a couple of outlaws and the sheriff has told you to let him rob the stage, he'll be through and I'll get his job for trying to uphold law and order. All right. Now I gotta get started. Stage is waiting.

[B]

With the usual flourish, the stagecoach prepared to start. The driver climbed to his seat and took up the reins. The guard made sure his rifle was ready.

[F]

A crack of the whip in the.

[B]

Eight in hand broke into a run.

[F]

Buck.

[B]

The deputy waved his hand, then turned toward the nearest cafe. Lem came up to him and.

[E]

Hey, Buck. The sheriff wants to see in his office.

[D]

Now.

[C]

Yeah, right away.

[F]

What do you want?

[C]

How do I know? He just sent me to tell you.

[F]

All right. Thanks, lamb.

[E]

Oh, come on in, Buck. Shut the door.

[F]

You wanted to see me, Sheriff?

[E]

Yeah, I reckon you know this, Jim.

[F]

You still here in town?

[D]

Yes, Buck. I've been talking to the sheriff.

[F]

But I thought you was to be out on the stage line, you and Tono.

[D]

Oh, there's plenty of time. Stage has to stick to the trail. Yeah, but man on horseback and cut down the side of the mountain and got to the gray stones half an hour ahead of the stage tunnel. Can't go with me, you see.

[F]

Why not?

[D]

Well, he's an Indian. Would be easily recognized in spite of a bandana on his face.

[E]

An old ranger wants you to go with him, Buck.

[F]

Me? Yep.

[E]

Saddle up and start.

[F]

I got something else to do.

[E]

You've got nothing else that has to be done. You're a deputy on duty.

[F]

What's the matter with Steve or Lem or one of the others?

[E]

I got other things for them to do.

[F]

Now see here, my horse is in bad shape.

[E]

You can take my horse.

[F]

Well, but Sheriff.

[D]

You'll have to start right away, Buck.

[F]

All right, Buck.

[E]

I'll shoot the kill.

[D]

Well, what's the matter with you? Why are you standing there like that?

[F]

I don't feel right.

[D]

You'll be all right when you're in the saddle.

[E]

You're white as a ghost.

[F]

I can't go with you, that's all there is to it.

[D]

Why?

[F]

Because I can't, that's all.

[D]

Is it because you don't want to be killed? Why? Because you told the guards to shoot to kill?

[F]

I never said that.

[D]

Because you're the one who helped Drexel. You know where he is right now.

[F]

Wait.

[D]

You're the one who gave him the saw. The one who planned to have me killed by the guards.

[F]

Now, wait.

[E]

Listen, you scheming, double crossing snake. You give me that badge. The Lone Ranger knew that someone had to help Drexel. He figured it was one of my deputies. No one else would have Had a chance to slip a saw to him. Every one of the deputies was asked to go with the Lone Ranger.

[D]

And everyone was willing except you.

[E]

And you wouldn't go because the guard was going to shoot to kill. That guard was told to play along with whoever approached him.

[D]

You want to confess or go with me and see what happens?

[F]

No, no, wait. Let me talk. Vexel made me do it. He threatened all manner of things if I didn't help him.

[E]

That's a lie. He promised all kinds of things if you would help him. Come on in, boys.

[C]

Now, wait.

[E]

How about telling where Drexel's Here. You talk or you'll wish you had let me at that post.

[C]

Stop.

[E]

Don't let him out myself.

[F]

You got to help me. They'll kill him.

[C]

I'll show you.

[F]

I'll take it to him. I swear I will.

[C]

Come on. All right.

[F]

Don't. Don't.

[B]

All the sheriff's men were led to the hunter's cabin, the Lone Ranger, and taught to remain some distance behind the posse. From the distance, they could see the lawmen closing in.

[D]

Drexel hasn't a chance, Tono.

[B]

Not right.

[C]

You're a trap, Drexel.

[E]

Come out with your hands up, or we'll come after you.

[D]

I wonder, Toto, will Drexel fight to the end or surrender him? No, they're no chance. Now look, Drexel's going out a window on the side.

[F]

The sheriffs see him.

[E]

There he is, boys.

[C]

Stop the.

[E]

We fire, boys.

[D]

Well, that's it, Tano. Ah, work here. All done now. Yes, Clark. Drexel is finally paid in full. Come, Tano. They don't need us now.

[B]

Get him up.

[F]

Count. Get him up. Sam. It. Sam.

[B]

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

[A]

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, 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.