Episode Summary: "For a Lost Cause" | The Lone Ranger (07-06-51)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: July 28, 2025

1. Introduction

In the seventh episode of "For a Lost Cause" from The Lone Ranger series, listeners are transported back to the tumultuous days of the Wild West. This digitally restored classic Western radio drama, expertly enhanced by Andrew Rhynes, brings to life the thrilling adventures of the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto. Set against the backdrop of lawlessness and rebellion, the episode delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and justice.

2. Setting the Scene

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger in the headquarters office of Colonel Hume at Fort Leaton. Colonel Hume expresses concern over his son, Burt Hume, a recent West Point graduate whose strange behavior has raised alarms. Burt's loneliness and prolonged solitary rides around the fort hint at deeper troubles.

Colonel Hume [03:23]: "My son Burt graduated from the academy at West Point recently, and I requested that he be sent to this post."

3. The Unfolding Mystery

Colonel Hume reveals that Burt has been unusually quiet, isolated from his peers, and has developed a peculiar interest in a prisoner named Hal Carver. Carver, a known associate of the notorious Captain Kalmar and his renegade army, becomes the focal point of Burt's strange actions.

The tension escalates when Burt, while on duty, orchestrates the escape of Carver, leading to his own desertion. He leaves a heartfelt note explaining his disillusionment with army discipline and his desire to join Kalmar's cause.

Burt Hume [06:34]: "Dear Dad, I'm turning in my sword and leaving, taking Hal Carver with me. I didn't realize the army treated human beings the way they treated this man."

Colonel Hume attributes Burt's actions to mental instability, emphasizing the threat Kalmar poses to the region.

Colonel Hume [06:52]: "Kalmar and his men have been a thorn in our side, attacking ammunition wagons, stealing supplies and horses, and so on."

4. Lone Ranger Enters the Fray

Responding to Colonel Hume's plea for help, the Lone Ranger and Tonto set out to track down Burt and Carver. Their pursuit takes them through rugged terrain, culminating in a confrontation near Captain Kalmar's stronghold in a narrow canyon.

Upon discovering Kalmar's plans to intercept a wagon train carrying guns and ammunition through Smoke Valley, the Lone Ranger devises a strategy to thwart the renegades' scheme. This involves a coordinated attack with Colonel Hume's troopers to ambush Kalmar's men.

Lone Ranger [19:35]: "We'll divide when we reach the valley. Half will be under my command on one side, the rest under Hal Carver."

5. The Climactic Battle

As dawn breaks, the staged ambush unfolds. The Lone Ranger and Kalmar's forces clash in a fierce battle within Smoke Valley. Amidst the chaos, betrayal surfaces when Hal Carver attempts to flee but is swiftly captured by the Lone Ranger, aided by his trusty horse, Silver.

Lone Ranger [17:42]: "Have to keep you quiet."

Through strategic maneuvering and bravery, the Lone Ranger ensures the defeat of Kalmar's army. The battle not only neutralizes the immediate threat but also uncovers a deeper conspiracy involving Colonel Hume and his son.

6. Revelation and Resolution

In the aftermath, it's revealed that Burt Hume and Hal Carver were part of a covert operation orchestrated by higher military command to dismantle Captain Kalmar's insurgency from within. Burt's apparent desertion was a calculated move to gain Kalmar's trust and gather intel.

Hal Carver [25:19]: "That's right. As soon as I succeeded in getting away with Carver, I managed to get word to the major."

Colonel Hume grapples with the deception but acknowledges the bravery and sacrifice involved in the mission. The Lone Ranger's pivotal role in resolving the crisis is lauded, reinforcing his status as a stalwart defender of justice.

Colonel Hume [27:02]: "As long as we have courageous Americans like you, sir. And if you'll pardon my saying so, like my son, our freedom is well guarded."

7. Notable Quotes

• Andrew Rines [00:15]: "Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines..."
• Narrator [00:58]: "A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hiyoo—Silver, the Lone Ranger."
• Lone Ranger [03:00]: "Let's go, big fellow. I am Silver. Hooray."
• Burt Hume [06:34]: "Dear Dad, I'm turning in my sword and leaving, taking Hal Carver with me..."
• Lone Ranger [17:42]: "Have to keep you quiet."
• Colonel Hume [27:02]: "As long as we have courageous Americans like you, sir. And if you'll pardon my saying so, like my son, our freedom is well guarded."

8. Conclusion

"For a Lost Cause" masterfully intertwines personal conflict with broader themes of loyalty and justice. Through compelling dialogue and strategic storytelling, the episode not only entertains but also imparts lessons on the complexities of duty and sacrifice. The Lone Ranger's unwavering commitment to justice serves as a beacon of hope, ensuring that the spirit of the Wild West remains vibrant in this digitally restored classic.

Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for the nuanced characters and the intricate plot that underscores the timeless battle between good and evil.

Enjoyed this summary? Dive deeper into the Old Time Radio Westerns by subscribing to otrwesterns.com and immerse yourself in more classic Western adventures, newly enhanced for modern ears.