Flames of Revenge | The Lone Ranger (02-28-51)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Flames of Revenge | The Lone Ranger (02-28-51)
Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: June 12, 2025

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Introduction

In the episode titled "Flames of Revenge" from The Lone Ranger series, listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West, where themes of justice, revenge, and morality intertwine. Hosted by Andrew Rines, this digitally restored classic Western radio drama brings to life the timeless struggle between good and evil, enhanced by meticulous audio restoration that breathes new clarity into the vintage recording.

Plot Summary

Setting the Stage (01:35 - 04:35)
The episode opens with the iconic introduction of the Lone Ranger and his faithful horse, Silver. A tense atmosphere is established on the Bar H Ranch, owned by the stern and unforgiving Frank Higbee. The ranch's foreman, Mort Garber, is introduced as a tough and reliable figure, but tension arises when Frank confronts Mort about unauthorized actions concerning the prize cattle.

Conflict Erupts (05:08 - 08:28)
Frank Higbee's harsh demeanor is further showcased as he dismisses Mort from his position after Mort defies his orders to move the cattle due to a dried-up creek. The domestic strain within the Higbee family becomes evident when Frank's wife, Mamie, attempts to mediate the situation. To appease his son Ronnie, Frank buys a pony identical to the Trotters' Rusty, inadvertently deepening Mort's resentment.

The Arrival of the Lone Ranger (09:07 - 16:53)
While the Higbee family grapples with internal conflicts, the Lone Ranger and his companion, Tonto, are introduced as they camp near the ranch. They soon encounter Ronnie Higbee, who befriends them and shares his discovery of their camp. The Lone Ranger gifts Ronnie a silver bullet, symbolizing their bond. Meanwhile, Mort Garber's grievances lead him to encounter Pedro Madura, an outlaw seeking revenge against Frank Higbee.

Plans for Revenge (12:01 - 15:47)
Mort teams up with Pedro and Rocky Golf to scheme against Frank Higbee, planning to steal the prize cattle by exploiting weaknesses in the ranch's defenses. Their clandestine meeting sets the stage for impending conflict, highlighting Mort's descent into vengeance.

Rising Tensions and Tragedy (17:31 - 25:45)
Back at the ranch, Ronnie becomes increasingly talkative about his new friends—the masked Lone Ranger and Tonto. As a prairie fire breaks out, chaos ensues. Mort Garber seizes the opportunity to steal the prized cattle, leaving Frank and his men vulnerable. Ronnie, caught between his father and his new friends, becomes a pivotal figure in the unfolding drama as the Lone Ranger races against time to save him from the encroaching flames.

Climactic Confrontation (25:45 - 29:50)
The Lone Ranger confronts Mort and his gang near the riverbank, leading to an ambush that results in the outlaws' capture. Frank Higbee, witnessing the bravery of the Lone Ranger, begins to reassess his rigid stance. The episode culminates with the restoration of peace at the Bar H Ranch, showcasing themes of redemption and the triumph of justice.

Character Development

• Frank Higbee (Expedia Advertiser): Portrayed as a stern and unforgiving ranch owner whose strict leadership style strains his relationships, especially with his foreman Mort and his son Ronnie. Throughout the episode, Frank's hardened exterior begins to crack as he witnesses the Lone Ranger's heroism.

• Mort Garber (Expedia Advertiser): Initially a reliable foreman, Mort's dismissal by Frank ignites his thirst for revenge. His alliance with Pedro Madura elevates him from a disgruntled employee to a vengeful antagonist.

• Ronnie Higbee (Mamie Higbee): Eight years old, Ronnie serves as the emotional heart of the story. His friendship with the Lone Ranger and innocence highlights the impact of adult conflicts on the younger generation.

• The Lone Ranger (Expedia Advertiser): Embodies justice and moral integrity. His interactions with Ronnie and confrontation with Mort underscore his role as the protector of the innocent.

• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal companion, providing wisdom and support throughout the episode.

Themes

• Justice vs. Revenge: The clash between Frank's pursuit of fairness and Mort's desire for vengeance drives the narrative, exemplifying the thin line between righteous action and personal vendetta.

• Redemption: Characters like Frank Higbee experience growth, moving from strict authoritarianism to a more understanding and compassionate stance, highlighting the possibility of change.

• Innocence and Influence: Ronnie's interactions with the Lone Ranger contrast with the harshness of the adult world, illustrating how innocence can be a guiding force for good.

Notable Quotes

• Andrew Rines (Host):
  "Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free."
  [01:01]

• Frank Higbee:
  "Why didn't you speak to me about it before you moved them?"
  [05:23]

• Mort Garber:
  "Yeah, well, that suits me."
  [05:39]

• Ronnie Higbee:
  "But he does want to hide his face. He told me so."
  [26:59]

• The Lone Ranger:
  "I know, son. I'll take you up here with me."
  [25:57]

Conclusion

"Flames of Revenge" masterfully weaves a tale of conflict, redemption, and the enduring fight for justice in the Wild West. Through richly developed characters and a gripping plot, the episode underscores the complexities of human emotions and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals. Andrew Rines' adept narration, combined with enhanced audio quality, ensures that both longtime fans and new listeners are fully immersed in this classic adventure.

Listeners are left reflecting on the enduring legacy of The Lone Ranger and the timeless lessons it imparts about integrity, courage, and the power of second chances.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me."
  Teen Advocate
  [00:15]

• "Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids."
  Teen Advocate
  [03:09]

• "You were made to travel."
  Expedia Advertiser
  [16:53]

These interspersed advertisements highlight contemporary social issues and sponsor messages, seamlessly integrated into the narrative flow.

Transcript

[Expedia Advertiser]

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[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Oregon legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@v flavors hookoreegoids.org paid for by the Campaign.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

For Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now, let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hio. Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis. Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Organ legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

Flavorshookorgankids.Org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tottle, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the Plains led the fight for law and order in the early Western United States. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Let's go, big fellow. Silver. Hooray.

[Narrator]

Frank Higbee, owner of the Bar H spread, was a gruff, hard man. He ran his ranch with an iron hand, delegating authority to no one. He was difficult to please when it came to hiring a foreman. Several had been hired and fired. And the man he had at the time, Mort Garber, had been taken on because he was almost as tough and as hard as Higby himself. But even Mort hadn't been at the Bar H long when matters reached a Climax Mort had just dismounted at the corral one day when Frank Higbee came from the ranch house with fire in his eyes.

[Mort Garber]

Hi, Boss.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Don't you high boss me, Garber.

[Mort Garber]

What do you mean? What's the matter?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Didn't I tell you to keep my prize cattle on the west range away from the other cattle? Didn't I?

[Mort Garber]

That's right, you did. But the creek dried up over there and they couldn't get water. We had to move them to the valley for the time being.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Why didn't you speak to me about it before you moved them?

[Mort Garber]

Doggone it, Boss is foreman here. I'm supposed to use my own judgment where the good of the cattle is concerned.

[Expedia Advertiser]

In other words, my judgment is no good, eh? Well, as of now, you aren't foreman of the Bar H any longer. Get your gear from the bunkhouse and clear out. That's all I gotta say.

[Mort Garber]

Yeah, well, that suits me.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Higby.

[Mort Garber]

You don't want a foreman around here. All you want's a yes man. I'll be mighty glad to clear out, but believe me, I won't forget the treatment I got here. You can bet on that.

[Narrator]

Even Frank's wife, Mamie, was not immune to his gruffness and flaring temper. That evening, Frank entered the ranch house to get his supper.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Mamie. Mamie.

[Mamie Higbee]

I had supper on the table in about 10 minutes. Frank, you know I went to town today and I.

[Expedia Advertiser]

By thunder, that's no excuse. I come in to eat, I expect to find my meals ready and waitin' if you didn't stop the gab all over town, you'd have been back in time.

[Mamie Higbee]

Frank, I didn't stop at all to talk. I did my buying and drove right back to the range.

[Expedia Advertiser]

You worth running?

[Mamie Higbee]

I told you he was going to visit the Trotters today, Frank. They'll bring him home after supper.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Why does the boy have to be going over there all the time? Abnab. And when I come home, I like to find him here.

[Mamie Higbee]

Trotters have a pony over there. Ronnie just begs all the time to go over and see.

[Expedia Advertiser]

So let's see then, by thunder, I'll buy the ornery critter so the boy will stay home where he belongs. Now get busy and bring him to supper.

[Narrator]

Higby's boy, 8 year old Ronnie, seemed to have struck the only soft spot in his heart. In his relationship with Ronnie. The gruffness and temper disappeared. And when the boy was present was the only time that Frank Higbee lost the hard expression on his face. And smiled. The following day at noontime, Frank was late coming home to dinner.

[Mamie Higbee]

I declare. Last night, Ronnie, your father was upset because supper wasn't on the table. Now he's late for dinner.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Golly, mom, you think something happens? Dad always comes on time.

[Mamie Higbee]

I don't know what's keeping him, son, but I'm sure he'll be along soon. If he doesn't, I'll have to put the dinner back on the stove and just.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Oh, here he is now. Hi, dad.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Howdy, son. I reckon you thought I was lost or something, didn't you?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Mommy has dinner Latent.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Uh huh, but he'll have to wait a little longer. Ronnie, I brought something I want to show you.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Golly. What'd you bring, dad? Where is it?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Right out front here. Come on.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Frank.

[Mamie Higbee]

Kigby, don't tell me you went and bought that.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Keep quiet, Mamie. You want to spoil everything. Now, Ronnie, get ready for a big surprise.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Gosh, I'm ready. A pony. He looks just like Rusty.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Rusty?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Yeah, the pony Trotters have. I mean the Rusty.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Well, that is Rusty. I bought him from the Trotters. How do you like that set?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Oh, gosh, thanks a lot, David. I'm gonna ride him right now.

[Mamie Higbee]

But Ronnie, dinner is waiting.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Go ahead, Ronnie. Ride your new pony. You can eat later. All right, maybe let's eat. My thunder. His face lit up like a Christmas tree when he saw that pony.

[Mamie Higbee]

I declare, Frank, you're going to spoil the boy.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Well, he's my son, ain't he? Just eat your dinner. Let's not hear any more about it.

[Narrator]

Meantime, the Lone Ranger and his Indian companion, Totto had camped in the hills not far from the Bar H Ranch. As they saddled their horses, Totto was.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Saying, you think Rustler still have hideout in this territory? Kimasabi? Yes, Toto. I understand they raided a ranch south of here two days ago. We'll stay a few days and try to find their camp. There. Silver, that cinch is tight enough. Scout already now. Oh, we need supplies. We'll get them. Before we come back. I hear hoofbeats. And look, we see him. Now it boy and pony. He doesn't seem to be frightened. That's right.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Ho, ho, Rusty. Ho ho.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Hello, son. Rusty's a mighty fine pony.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Uh huh. Dad gave him to me.

[Mamie Higbee]

Are you an outlaw?

[Expedia Advertiser]

No, we're not outlaws.

[Ronnie Higbee]

But you have a mask on, mister. Why do you wear that if you're not an outlaw?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Are you good at keeping a secret? Well then I'll tell you. I wear the mask so people won't see my face. That's plenty good reason, that boy.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Do you ever scalp people in you?

[Mort Garber]

You not worry.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Me not hurt ya. What's your name, son?

[Ronnie Higbee]

My name's Ronnie Higby.

[Expedia Advertiser]

I've heard of your father. Isn't he Frank Higbee of the Bar H Spread?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Uh huh. You have a funny face, mister.

[Expedia Advertiser]

A funny face.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Uh huh. You said you didn't want people to see it, didn't you?

[Mort Garber]

Oh, him have nice face, Ronnie.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Anyway, he has an awful nice smile.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Well, thanks, Ronnie. Let's forget the mask now and be friends, shall we?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Oh, sure. I bet most boys don't have a masked man and an Indian for friends, do they?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Perhaps not. Say, aren't you a long way from home?

[Ronnie Higbee]

No, sir. My father's ranch isn't very far away. I know the trail back all right.

[Expedia Advertiser]

You said you were good at keeping secrets, Ronnie. Suppose you don't tell anyone where our camp is?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Cross my heart. I'll keep it a secret. Huh? But will you let me come back to see you?

[Expedia Advertiser]

We'll not be here very long, only a few days. But we'll be glad to see you if you do come back. Well, we'd better start. Toto.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Is that your name, Tano?

[Expedia Advertiser]

That's right.

[Ronnie Higbee]

I like that name. Hey, mister, where'd you get all those shiny bullets? I never saw any like that before.

[Expedia Advertiser]

These are silver bullets, Ronnie. Here, I'll give you one to remember us by.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Oh, golly, thanks a lot. I better get back home now. Goodbye.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Goodbye. Ronnie. Ronnie.

[Mort Garber]

Him Nice little feller.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Yes. I wish I could explain my mask to grown ups as easily as I did to him. Toto. Well, let's go. Easy color.

[Narrator]

At the cafe in town, the discharged foreman, Mort, stood at the bar talking to the barkeep.

[Mort Garber]

How things going, Ed? All right, Mort.

[Expedia Advertiser]

What are you doing in town this time of day?

[Mort Garber]

I'm not working at the Bar H anymore.

[Narrator]

Huh?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Since when?

[Mort Garber]

Since yesterday. Had a run in with that ornery coyote, Hickman, so I got fired.

[Expedia Advertiser]

And nobody stays with him long as foreman.

[Mort Garber]

I know, but he can't treat me that way. Someday I'll find a way to get back at him. Hey, mister. My friend over there wants to talk to you.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Huh?

[Mort Garber]

Yeah. The army at that table?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Sure.

[Mort Garber]

You want to see me, stranger? Oh, yeah. Sit down a minute, will you?

[Expedia Advertiser]

All right.

[Mort Garber]

Well, what's it all about? I'm Kel Cushion and he's Rocky Golf. We know you're Mort Garber, who used to be with the Bar H. How do you know I'm not still at the Bar H? You overheard what you said to the bar tonight, Mort. Well, what about it? No need to get your feathers off of Mort. We got a proposition to make to you. That's right. Go on. We just heard you say you were going to get back at your former boss at the Bar H. Yeah, and I mean just what I said, too. Sure you did. Well, we'll be able to help you do it. Of course, if you're afraid of the law. The law doesn't bother me, as long as I don't get caught. Yeah, I pegged you for that type hombre, Mort. Now, if you're interested. Sure, I'm interested. And we'll take you to meet the hombre or runs our outfit. Come on, let's get going.

[Narrator]

Mort and his two new friends rode out the west trail until they came to a shack in a secluded hollow near the border. They dismounted and entered the shack.

[Mort Garber]

Hey, Pedro, you brought an hombre we thought she'd want to meet. What is this, Senor? Why do you bring this stranger here? Calm down now, Pedro. This is Mort Garvey. He was Foreman at the Bar 8 spread till yesterday. Got fired. He wants to get back at old man Higby. Yeah, that's right. I'll make him sorry he ever got cup with me. But I don't get this setup. You will, don't worry. And Mort, this is Pedro Madura from across the border. Adriel Madura, the outlaw? But of course. I'm Ego. I see you have heard of me, eh?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Well, I sure have.

[Mort Garber]

They say you and your gang have rustled more steers and six other gangs put together. You see, senors, Did I not tell you I should warn they'd be most famous, no? Yeah, yeah, sure. Now look, Pedro. Mort could be a big help to us when we go after Higby's prize cattle. But of course, you are most right, rookie. Oh, so that's the angle, huh? Huh? And if you don't like it. Now, wait. Put your shooting iron away, partner. You can count on me on anything. That'll hurt Frank Hickman. Good for you, mortal. Caleb. Looks like we judged him right after all. Yeah. How are you going about getting those steers? You will tell us where they are grazing, Senor Mo, and we shall go and take them and run them quickly over the border. Won't be as easy as all that, Pedro. He keeps four cowpokes riding herd on those high steers every night. Keeps them on the west range. That is most interesting. How many men do you have, Pedro? We have seven down the Eusenor. Of course, you must realize you may not leave here now. If that's the way you want it, it's all right with me. This will be a lot easier. And being foreman at the Bar H spread. Sit down, Morright. Now we shall discuss the layout of the Bar H. Then we shall make plans so that it would be easy for us to take the prize. Cut.

[Expedia Advertiser]

And we will.

[Mort Garber]

This former boss of yours will be more sorry for his treatment of you after we are through. Amigo, I promise you that.

[Narrator]

The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger adventure. Before the next exciting scenes. Please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it.

[Teen Advocate]

A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, if I try this once, it won't be that much of a problem. But then, eventually it becomes a problem.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Trip planner by Expedia. You were made to have strong opinions about sand. We were made to help you and your friends find a place on the beach with a pool and a marina and a waterfall and a soaking towel. Expedia made to travel.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue that evening at the supper table, Ronnie was more talkative than usual, and his father, Frank Higbee, sat listening with an indulgent smile on his lips.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Oh, golly. Rusty sure is a fine pony, dad.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Well, I'm mighty glad to think so, son.

[Ronnie Higbee]

The man who wants to hide his face from people said so, too.

[Mamie Higbee]

Ronnie, whatever are you talking about? Now, do eat your supper like a good boy.

[Ronnie Higbee]

But he does want to hide his face. He told me so.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Who told you so?

[Ronnie Higbee]

The masked man, Dad. I just told you.

[Mamie Higbee]

Masked man? Heavens, Ronnie, the way you prattle on about crazy things is downright frightened at times.

[Ronnie Higbee]

But it's true, mom, and you don't have to be frightened. He told me so. And so did the Indian. Oh, golly. You ought to see the horses they had. One was a.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Now, hold on, son. What's all this about a masked man and Indian anyway?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Well, when I went for a ride on Rusty, I came to their Camp. They were awful nice to me and said we could be friends.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Now, you just eat your supper and stop confusing people with that crazy talk about masked men and Indians and all that. But honestly, I said keep quiet, son. Neat. Now, do as I told you, Mimi. I'm going out to the bunk house and see the things are set for the night.

[Narrator]

It was after midnight that night when a cowpoke rode hurriedly to the ranch house at the Bar h and dismounted.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Mr. Higby.

[Mort Garber]

Mr. Higbee.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Hey, what's all the pounding for at this time of night? What's the matter?

[Mort Garber]

Look yonder. To the north range, Eh?

[Expedia Advertiser]

Fire. Jump in, Jupiter. Yeah.

[Mort Garber]

We'll need all hands to save the cattle we have over that way.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Ring the farm bell or rout out the men. Hurry. I'll be with you in a few minutes.

[Mort Garber]

All right. This will get them in.

[Expedia Advertiser]

What's the matter? What you ringing that bell for?

[Mort Garber]

Joe, look yonder.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Prairie fire.

[Mort Garber]

It's spreading over the north range. The range riders have gone to move.

[Expedia Advertiser]

The cattle while I come to get you fellas. All right, get your horses, man. Get over there. Prono, move the cattle and start a back fire before it spreads anymore.

[Mort Garber]

Hey, boss.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Groslers took the prize cattle. What? The other three hands went to help move the cattle from the north range. They left me with the prize herd. Six or seven outlaws wearing bandanas on their faces come along.

[Mort Garber]

Shortly after, they drove me off and took the herd.

[Expedia Advertiser]

You go to town for the sheriff. I'll wait here for him with a few of the men.

[Mort Garber]

All right, Force, get up there.

[Expedia Advertiser]

All right. Now, the rest of you, help move the cattle on the north range. Now.

[Narrator]

The prairie fire was just north of the Lone Ranger's camp. He and Toto were awakened from their sleep by a warning from the Great Horse. Silver.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Toto, wake up. Me wake Silver?

[Mort Garber]

Give warning, maybe.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Oh, look. North fire. We'll have to leave here. Toto is moving this way. Smoke is drifting over the camp.

[Narrator]

Hurriedly, the masked man and Indian saddled their horses. Then the Lone Ranger spoke.

[Expedia Advertiser]

They ride to the Bar H and warned them. Easy, said he.

[Narrator]

While he waited for the sheriff to arrive from town, which was only a mile or so away. Frank Higbee and a few of his men stood on the front porch watching the glow in the sky. Mamie Higby opened the door and came out, followed by Ronnie.

[Mamie Higbee]

Why are you waiting here? That fire has spread, Frank.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Yeah. Most of the men are going out there. We're waiting for the sheriff. Most important thing to me is to get after those rustlers.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Golly.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Say, Ronnie, you were talking about a masked man and Indian at supper tonight. By thunder, I bet they were real after all.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Sure, Dad. I told you they were. I found their camp.

[Expedia Advertiser]

That may be the lead we're after. Where is that camp, son?

[Ronnie Higbee]

But, Dad. I promise not to kill anybody.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Son, tell us where that camp is, do you hear?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Please. Please, dad. Don't ask me to tell.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Hey. Damn it.

[Mamie Higbee]

Wait, Frank. Now, no use being rough with the boy. You're the one who taught him always to keep his promises. If he did make such a promise.

[Ronnie Higbee]

But I did, Mom. I just can't kill.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Go to your room. Go on. I'll attend to you later. We'll find those owl hoots somehow.

[Ronnie Higbee]

They're my friends. They're not owlhoots. They're Dr.

[Mort Garber]

Sheriff and his ma' am.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Hi, Higby. Ready to ride?

[Mort Garber]

Some men from town want to help fight that fire.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Good. There are plenty of men to fight the fire. What we'd better do, Sheriff, is to get after those rustlers before they get my prize. Heard across the border a hit Leatherman. My boy rode out the north trail this afternoon. Says he found their camp. Maybe we'll be able to find it. It may have hidden the herd someplace close by. For the time being. Let's go get a bear.

[Narrator]

Meantime, the Lone Ranger and Toto are taking a different trail to the Bar H1. As they approached the front of the house, Toto spoke.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Look, King, Savvy horse is all gone from Corel. Them already know about fire.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Who's there?

[Expedia Advertiser]

We came to give warning about the fire. It seems your men know about it.

[Ronnie Higbee]

If you came in from the range.

[Mamie Higbee]

Please go find my husband. Tell him a masked man and an Indian.

[Expedia Advertiser]

We're friends of Ronnie's. He came to our camp this afternoon. Don't be frightened.

[Mamie Higbee]

But Ronnie went to warn you. He took a shortcut to your camp. My husband, with the sheriff and some men are trying to find the camp.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Find our camp?

[Ronnie Higbee]

Yes.

[Mamie Higbee]

They think you're with the gang that took the prize herd and started the fire. Ronnie wouldn't tell where the camp is. Then he left before I could stop him. If he rides too close to the.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Fire, we'll Bring back Ronnie, Mrs. Higby.

[Narrator]

Don't worry.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Which way did he go, do you know?

[Mamie Higbee]

He rode out past the corral, heading for the range.

[Expedia Advertiser]

We'll try to pick up his trail. The moon's bright. All right, let's go. Tutto.

[Narrator]

After following the north trail a short distance, Higby Brought the others to a halt.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Yeah, that fire seems to be getting worse. Let's head over that way and help the others forget the cattle for the time being.

[Mort Garber]

Yeah, that's the best thing to do.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Now, I told him to start a backfire, but I want to be sure they drove off all the cattle so we won't lose any. It'd be tough if some of them got caught between the two fires. Let's get going. Get up there. Get up.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tonto easily followed Ronnie. The cowpokes fighting the fire had spread out in a thin line across the range. As the masked man and Indian approached, they saw torches in the hands of the men being applied to the dry tall grass.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Look. Kimo sabi men starting back fire. Ronnie road beyond the part where they're starting a tunnel. The boy will be trapped. Look. He sees someone way out in range. Him show up against light from fire? Must be Ronnie Higby. Come on till there. Watch count. He wait.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Come back.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Faster, big fella. Come on.

[Narrator]

As the wall of flame of the back fire rose, Frank Higbee with the sheriff and the others arrived and rained to a stop.

[Expedia Advertiser]

That'll stop the prairie fireman.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Frank.

[Mamie Higbee]

Frank, it's Ronnie.

[Ronnie Higbee]

He came this way.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Ronnie. What is this?

[Mamie Higbee]

Maybe he was going to warn his masked friend.

[Expedia Advertiser]

I couldn't stop him. Holy mackerel.

[Mamie Higbee]

The masked man and an Indian came to the house. Then they started after Ronnie.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Hey, I saw them.

[Mort Garber]

They went out there just as we started the backfire.

[Expedia Advertiser]

I yelled at them, but they kept going. Then Ronnie must be between the two fires. We've got to do something. We must save my boy.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle rode to where Ronnie sat waiting on his pony. The frightened boy cried out as they stopped beside him.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Sally's a fire. He's coming both ways. I was trying to warn you.

[Expedia Advertiser]

We know, son. I'll take you up here with me. There you are. Cuddle, Lead the pony. You'll make better time that way. Be catch rings. The flames haven't closed into the right yet. We'll try to get through there.

[Narrator]

Higby and the others watched for some time as the two lines of flames gradually moved together. Then Frank spoke brokenly.

[Expedia Advertiser]

It's too late. They must have been trapped out there. Ronnie.

[Mamie Higbee]

My poor boy.

[Mort Garber]

Hey, look. A masked man and an Indian. The Indian's leading the boy's pony.

[Mamie Higbee]

That means Ronnie is Old Brain.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Ronnie's boy. Look. The boy's riding with the mask man. Thank heaven. Oh, silver. Oh, boy. Easy. Steady, big fella. Oscar. Oh, fella. Oh, here's your boy, Higby, safe and sound. There you are. Ronnie. Ronnie. Ronnie. Sonny.

[Mamie Higbee]

Oh, may heaven bless you both.

[Ronnie Higbee]

I told you they were my friends. Dad, they are not lost. The masked man gave me the silver bullet.

[Expedia Advertiser]

A silver bullet? Hey, that big white stallion and the mask. Mister. Now I know you aren't an outlaw. I've heard about you. Mask or not, they've got my thanks. I'm sure they're not with the rustlers. Rustlers? Rustlers took my prize herd. Must have started the fire to attract attention away from the west range. They'll head for the border. Yeah, I reckon so. Why not ride to the river and follow it to cut them off? Thunder, that's just what we'll do. Sure. Maybe you take Ronnie back home. We'll go after those rustlers. All right, I'll now ride with you. Good.

[Mort Garber]

Let's go.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle, riding with the sheriff and the others, reached the river at the border, then rode northward toward the only possible place where cattle might be taken across. Meantime, the outlaw gang driving the herd, had followed the valley northward for a time, then had turned toward the river. Because of the cattle, their progress was slow.

[Mort Garber]

We are approaching the river now. Soon we shall be across with the longhorns. Then we shall be safe.

[Narrator]

As they moved the cattle close to the river, they approached a place along the riverbank that was studded with large boulders. Suddenly, they were surprised by a fusillade of shots.

[Mort Garber]

It is an ambush.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Here's your gunsmen.

[Narrator]

The outlaws were taken completely by surprise. Those who turned to leave found that other men were shooting from behind them. For an exciting few moments, they put up a hard fight. But finally they were beaten, some of them wounded, and the posse closed in, taking them prisoners. When he saw that the outlaws were captured, Frank spoke to his men.

[Expedia Advertiser]

All right, boys, the careless men are able to handle these rustles. All of you, get over there, round up my prize candle, then start driving them back to the ranch. Well, we got them all. Mister, Your suggestion to come to this point and wait in ambush sure did the trick. Thanks, Sheriff. This is the Madura gang. Hunt and I came down this way hoping to help in their capture. Well, I sure didn't expect to find that no good Mort Garber with him. Reckon this was his way of getting even for being fired. Perhaps you'd be able to pick a worthwhile foreman, Higby, if he were more lenient with your men. Now, hold on. What right have you got to, after.

[Mort Garber]

All you did for us.

[Expedia Advertiser]

I reckon you have the right of that. How about you being my former no thanks. H and I have other work to do. We'll come by this way again and stop to see you and Ronnie someday. Goodbye and good luck. Man alive. There's one hombre I could really let run the bar. H without interference. Who is he anyway? Sheriff he's an hombre whose advice is worth taking.

[Mort Garber]

Frank yes, sir, the west is mighty.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Proud of the Lone Ranger.

[Ronnie Higbee]

Sam.

[Teen Advocate]

Use of flavored tobacco by teens is a crisis Tobacco companies use flavors like cotton candy, watermelon ice and cool mint to hook kids like me. They seem harmless, but they aren't. Addiction to nicotine sets us up for a lifetime of health problems. Oregon legislators can do something about it. Passing Senate Bill 702A will keep flavored tobacco away from kids. But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me at flavors.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

Hookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.

[Expedia Advertiser]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[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 Technogod and Craig, 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.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

Nearly 90% of kids who vape say flavors are why they do it.

[Teen Advocate]

A lot of the flavors that I've heard are like peach, mango, watermelon. It makes it seem like more childlike and innocent. Oh, I tried this once. It won't be that much of a problem. But then eventually it becomes a problem.

[Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Representative]

It's time to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco products in Oregon and protect our kids from nicotine addiction. Urge lawmakers to Pass Senate Bill 702A. Take action at flavorshookoregonkids.org paid for by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Action Fund.