
Original Air Date: July 06, 1951Host: Andrew RhynesShow: The Lone RangerPhone: (707) 98 OTRDW (6-8739)Stars:• Brace Beemer (Lone Ranger)• John Todd (Tonto)Writer:• Fran StrikerProducer:• George W. TrendleMusic:• Ben BonnellExit music from: Roundup on t...
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Lone Ranger
Foreign.
Andrew Rines
Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode 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 the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi O. Silver, the Lone Ranger.
Colonel Hume
It's Sam.
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.
Burt Hume
Come on, Silver.
Lone Ranger
Let's go, big fellow. I am Silver. Hooray.
Narrator
The Lone Ranger sat in the headquarters office of Colonel Hume at Fort Leaton. He listened with interest as the colonel paced the floor in front of him and talked.
Colonel Hume
My son Burt graduated from the academy at West Point recently, and I requested that he be sent to this post.
Lone Ranger
I see.
Colonel Hume
Since his arrival here a month ago, Burt has acted strangely.
Lone Ranger
In what way?
Colonel Hume
He was unusually quiet, didn't mix with the others, and on his off time, he went riding away from the fort alone to be going hours at a time.
Lone Ranger
Is he still acting that way?
Colonel Hume
Wait, please, let me finish.
Lone Ranger
Of course, go on.
Colonel Hume
Sir, before but came here, we captured one of Captain Kalmar's men during a raid on one of our supply wagons.
Lone Ranger
I've heard of that deserter, Captain Kalmar, and his renegade army.
Colonel Hume
Kalmar and his men have been a thorn in our side, attacking ammunition wagons, stealing supplies and horses, and so on.
Lone Ranger
Haven't your scouts been able to track any of his men to Kalmar's hideout?
Colonel Hume
Yes, on two occasions. But by the time we assembled the troopers and went there, Kalmar and his men had moved to another stronghold which we weren't able to locate properly. He's moved from one stronghold to another in the foothills, and all our efforts to catch up with him have been in vain.
Lone Ranger
So I've heard. But what of the man you captured? If you could get him to talk, I.
Colonel Hume
The man we took prisoner was sentenced to be shot. Then we received orders from the commanding general at Fort Worth to stay the execution until further notice.
Lone Ranger
Well, that's interesting.
Colonel Hume
Yes, interesting and strange. But of course, I never question orders from Sir Piers. But to get back to my son.
Lone Ranger
Yes.
Colonel Hume
From the time of his arrival, Bert showed Unusual interest in the prisoner, who was a rough looking man named Hal Carver. Bert insisted the man should get better treatment and better food.
Lone Ranger
Perhaps Burt needs time to get used to the discipline of the army in the field, Colonel.
Colonel Hume
Yes, that's the way I felt that it would take time for the lad to toughen up. Anyway, one evening when he was duty officer for the night, Bert went to the guard house and spoke to the guard.
Hal Carver
Guard, I've had orders to question the prisoner. Unlock the door for me.
Lone Ranger
Very well, Lieutenant.
Hal Carver
Now get inside and be quiet. I have a gun at your back.
Lone Ranger
Well, I don't understand, Lieutenant. Why do you?
Hal Carver
I said go inside.
Lone Ranger
Yes, all right, Carver, hurry.
Hal Carver
There's a cord in my pocket. Come tie him up.
Burt Hume
With pleasure, Lieutenant.
Hal Carver
When you finish with that, use your handkerchief to gag him.
Burt Hume
Look, what's this all about, Lieutenant?
Lone Ranger
Holy Mackle. If you let this umbre escape, you'll get.
Hal Carver
Hurry up, Carver.
Burt Hume
Yeah. There. Now I'll gag him.
Colonel Hume
No, wait.
Burt Hume
I'll tell you. Hey, he's all set, Lieutenant.
Hal Carver
Good. We'll leave him on the cot. I have horses waiting. We'll manage to get through the guard outside. You guard, see that the Colonel gets this sword. I've stuck a note on the handle. Now let's get away from here fast. Carver, come on.
Colonel Hume
They went outside, and while Bert talked to the guard at the gate, Carver moved up behind in the darkness and knocked the guard out.
Lone Ranger
All this is hard to believe, Colonel.
Colonel Hume
Yes, I know, I know. To think that my own son would do a thing like that.
Lone Ranger
What about the note he left?
Colonel Hume
Oh, yes. Here it is, Missy.
Lone Ranger
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. I want none of it. And Carver's convinced me that Captain Kalmar's cause is worth fighting for. Sorry, dad, but that's the way it is. Oh, goodbye, Bert.
Colonel Hume
The boy must be mentally ill. That man Carver was a killer. A hard, vicious fellow who wouldn't give us any information under any conditions.
Lone Ranger
He speaks of Captain Kalmar's core.
Colonel Hume
Kalmar, in my opinion, is insane. He has a mistaken idea that he can gather enough forces to establish a state of his own from the Big Bend to the New Mexico border.
Lone Ranger
So that's it.
Colonel Hume
Yes. The danger is greater than headquarters thinks. Kellmore will continue to add renegades and gunmen to his force until most anything could happen. I. I can't understand Bert being persuaded.
Lone Ranger
Frankly, that note wasn't too convincing. To me. Are you sure there's no other reason why Burt would do something as drastic as that?
Burt Hume
No.
Colonel Hume
The whole disgraceful thing has me stumped.
Lone Ranger
When did he leave with Carver?
Colonel Hume
Three days ago. I've had troopers searching for them, but without success. That's why I sent for you, Tot.
Lone Ranger
And I'll do all we can to help you, colonel.
Colonel Hume
I knew you would. And by sunder, if you find Kalmar's stronghold we'll take every last trooper at the fort and go after him. I'll not rest until he and Bert are brought in to get the punishment they both deserve.
Lone Ranger
Tonto's waiting outside. If we get any news, I'll let you know. Goodbye, Colonel.
Colonel Hume
Goodbye, sir.
Narrator
In the shack he used for headquarters back in the foothills Captain Kalmar, a tough man with intense, piercing eyes was talking to Burt Hume and Hal Carver.
Lone Ranger
The talks we've had since you came here, Lieutenant have convinced me you're sincere in wanting to be with us.
Burt Hume
Captain, the fact that he helped me escape and became a deserter proves he wants to join up with you.
Hal Carver
That's right.
Lone Ranger
How do I know your father and you didn't plan it this way?
Hal Carver
Your own scouts have reported that the colonel gave orders to the searching parties to shoot me on sight. That ought to be proof enough for you.
Lone Ranger
Yes, that's true. All right, Lieutenant, we'll consider you one of us. I'm hoping you'll be able to give us some useful information.
Hal Carver
I do know of something that will be helpful.
Lone Ranger
What is it?
Hal Carver
Several wagons of guns and ammunition are to come to the fort tomorrow. They'll take a route through Smoke Valley instead of the regular and shorter route.
Burt Hume
Hey, captain, that's real news. We could use those guns and ammunition.
Lone Ranger
Yes, I know. I'll have some of our renegade scouts watch for the wagons.
Tonto
In another month, I hope to have.
Lone Ranger
Twice as many men. And after that, nothing will stop us.
Narrator
After the Lone Ranger met Tonto outside the fort the two men rode toward the foothills hoping to find some lead to the stronghold of Captain Kalmar and his men. As they rode a trail that was bordered with large boulders, a shot rang out.
Lone Ranger
Quick, right behind that big boulder. Come on up, scout.
Hal Carver
Easy shot.
Lone Ranger
Pull it.
Colonel Hume
Gray shoulder.
Tonto
It's not bad.
Lone Ranger
The shot came from over to the left.
Tonto
I'll see you Indian right away.
Hal Carver
Fast.
Lone Ranger
Let him go for the moment. I'll attend to your shoulder. Then we'll pick up his trail. He may be one of Kalmar's men. That was a close shave. Yet he may Be the means of showing us the way to the stronghold.
Tonto
Let me still wonder about Colonel Son.
Lone Ranger
So do I. The long and strict training he had at the academy. It doesn't seem possible he'd do what he did, give such flimsy reasons. There. That bandage will hold you.
Tonto
You have ID about Lt. Kimasabe?
Lone Ranger
I think if we could question him, we'd get a different reason than he gave in that note. All right, let's mount and try to pick up that Indian's trail. Now. Steady, big fella.
Narrator
For some time, the Lone Ranger and Tottle followed the Indian's trail. Then they lost it in a stream which was bordered by banks of shale. Finally, they pulled to a halt.
Lone Ranger
The Indian was clever in covering his tracks.
Tonto
Toto Indian pony not leave marks on shale rock like horse with iron shoes. Well, sun going down Kimasabe. Soon it'd be dark.
Lone Ranger
We'll find a campsite, Tato. There's a small town not far from here where we'll be able to get a few supplies. All right, let's go. Come on, children.
Narrator
After selecting a campsite, the Lone Ranger and Tottle rode to the edge of the nearby town. The masked man waited in a grove while Toto went to the store. A burly looking man stood at the counter buying tobacco. Toto waited while the man talked to the storekeeper.
Burt Hume
That sure was surprising news about the Colonel's son. Over to Ford, wasn't it?
Hal Carver
What news is that, mister?
Burt Hume
Why, he helped a prisoner escape and went along with him as a deserter here.
Colonel Hume
Don't say.
Hal Carver
When did that happen?
Burt Hume
Few days ago. Left a note saying he was going to join up with Captain Kelmar.
Colonel Hume
Colonel's son must be a fool then.
Burt Hume
Why do you say that?
Hal Carver
You don't think any hombre in his right mind to throw in with Kelmar and his bunch of cutthroats, do you?
Burt Hume
Maybe not, but Kalmar's getting stronger every day. They say he's liable to be running this part of the country someday.
Hal Carver
Tommy rot. He'll hang as a traitor. If the Colonel's son is gone with him, I reckon he'll hang too. That'd be 25 cents, mister.
Burt Hume
There you are. I wouldn't talk too much against Captain Kalmar if I as you. Someday we might both be living under his laws. Go on.
Hal Carver
Something for you, Indian.
Tonto
Ah, here, Lys.
Hal Carver
Good. It'll only take a minute or two.
Narrator
After getting the supplies, Tottle returned to the grove on the edge of town and told the Lone Ranger about the conversation in the store, the Lone Ranger.
Lone Ranger
Remarked, I didn't see anyone. Right out of town, Toddo a feller.
Tonto
Go from store to cafe, cross street.
Lone Ranger
I see. That will give us a chance to follow him when he leaves.
Tonto
Why we follow Fella?
Lone Ranger
Before I left the colonel, he told me no one outside the fort knew about the escaped prisoner and his son.
Tonto
Oh, how me not know that?
Lone Ranger
The only ones who'd know besides the troopers would be Kalmar and his men.
Tonto
You think feller in store one of Kalmar's men?
Lone Ranger
Yes. Knowing what he does and from what he said, I feel sure he is. We'll wait in the shadows near the cafe until he leaves. Then we'll follow him later.
Narrator
When the man whose name was Sam left the cafe and rode from town, the Lone Ranger and Tottle followed at a safe distance. The moon had come up, and the moonlight helped them keep the man in sight. The outlaw rode trails that twisted and turned through the foothills. And at times he rode in shallow streams. It took all their ingenuity for the masked man and Indian to keep on his trail. They rode for some time. Then they saw the man ahead ride into the shadows of a narrow pass. They pulled to a halt.
Lone Ranger
That pass seems to go into a canyon beyond. That's the entrance to the present stronghold. They'll have guards watching.
Tonto
Isn't that right?
Lone Ranger
We'll circle well around to the wooded area, then right up the side of the hill and try to reach the rim of the canyon. All right, let's get going. Come on, Silver.
Narrator
The Lone Ranger and Tonto was stopped near the top of the ridge, then crawled forward cautiously. A moment later, they reached the rim of a hidden canyon and looked down.
Lone Ranger
That's it. Tottle. Kalmar Stronghold.
Tonto
I see plenty horses. Hit plenty big camp.
Lone Ranger
You'll get word to Colonel Hume right away.
Burt Hume
Freeze, both of you. I got you covered. Now stand up. One move and I'll blast.
Tonto
Get up, Toto.
Burt Hume
Now keep your hands up and turn around.
Lone Ranger
You're giving me orders?
Burt Hume
Mask, armory and an engine, eh? I reckon this is the last time you'll do any spying for the colonel. We'll send you both back to the fort filled with lead.
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.
Colonel Hume
Sam.
Narrator
Now to continue. As the Lone Rings and Toto looked over the rim of the canyon, the man Sam, whom they had followed from town, came up behind them and got the drop on them. The masked man and Indian stood Facing the hard faced gunman.
Lone Ranger
You're more clever than I thought.
Burt Hume
Yeah, I got wise that I was being followed, mister. I waited just inside the pass in the shadows and saw you turn aside. I figured what you were up to, so I came up here and waited.
Lone Ranger
I see, Mister, you and the others who follow Kalmar working for a lost cause.
Burt Hume
Oh, yeah, yeah. We know better. We'll grab the wagons of guns and ammunition that's gonna pass through Smoke Valley at dawn. After that, we'll be stronger than ever.
Lone Ranger
I suppose Bert Hume gave you that information.
Burt Hume
Yep, he sure did. But enough of this yapping. I want to get this over with. Seems like your horse is coming to kiss you goodbye.
Narrator
The great horse Silver sensed the danger to his master when he saw the gun in Sam's hand. The intelligent stallion walked slowly to them, coming in from one side as if to nuzzle the masked man. But just as he came close, the Lone Ranger whistled and Silver suddenly sprang forward. With a snort of rage, the big stallion sent the gunman sprawling to the ground. As the gun fell to one side, the Lone Ranger immediately leaped on top of Sam, knocking him breathless with a knee and clapping a hand over the gunman's mouth.
Lone Ranger
Have to keep you quiet.
Tonto
You have him covered.
Lone Ranger
All right. You get up. If you make one sound, I'll take horse.
Colonel Hume
You trick me.
Lone Ranger
Keep him covered, Toto. I'll tie and gag him and you can take him to the fort. Ah.
Tonto
And what you do?
Lone Ranger
I'll go warn the wagon train. Tell the colonel they plan to attack the wagons in Smoke Valley at dawn. It'll be easier for the troopers to take Kalmar and his men in that valley to try to get into their.
Tonto
Stronghold map right there.
Lone Ranger
We'll put him on scout with you and take him to the fort. I'll ride now to meet the wagons and see you at Smoke Valley at dawn.
Narrator
Later at the fort, after delivering Sam to the troopers, Toto listened as the Colonel spoke.
Colonel Hume
Condu. If there are wagons bringing guns and ammunition, I don't know anything about them.
Tonto
But Sam Fellers say that it what Kalmar and men think.
Colonel Hume
I don't understand it. However, we'll take the troopers to Smoke Valley so as to be there at dawn in case Kalmar and his thugs do show up.
Tonto
Lone Ranger meet us there. Him go warn wagons.
Colonel Hume
If Burt told Kalmar that, I don't know how he got his information. I'm not expecting any wagons. Maybe it's some trick the fellow pulls so you'd tell me and Then you'd.
Tonto
When Feller Sam tell us about wagons, him think we going to die. Him stand with gun ready to shoot?
Colonel Hume
Yes. Then Kalmor must believe it, even if we know it isn't true. In that case, he'll take his men to that valley anyway.
Tonto
With Sam prisoner now at fort, him not able to warn Kalmar.
Colonel Hume
My troopers will be there ready to close in on them. I'll give the necessary orders.
Narrator
Before dawn. Captain. Kalmar stood in front of his shack in the canyon and looked over the long, ragged lines of followers who were waiting to mount.
Tonto
Well, men, we're ready to go.
Lone Ranger
We'll divide when we reach the valley. Half will be under my command on one side, the rest under Hal Carver.
Tonto
On the other side.
Lone Ranger
Wait until the wagons move into the valley. I'll give the signal to attack, two.
Tonto
Shots, then move in on them. How much of an escort do you.
Colonel Hume
Think they'll have, Lieutenant?
Hal Carver
I don't know, Captain.
Lone Ranger
Well, they usually have four men to a wagon. Two in the seat, two on horseback.
Hal Carver
I understand there are six wagons.
Lone Ranger
Well, that means about 24 men. I will take them by surprise and by numbers.
Tonto
We now have 50.
Lone Ranger
All right, mount. Let's get moving.
Narrator
The troopers from the fort also moved toward the valley. Toto, who had gone ahead to do some scouting, return to report to the colonel.
Lone Ranger
Easy, scout. Easy, fellow. Easy.
Tonto
It not good. We ride straight through valley, men waitin in ambush in trees partway down slopes on each side of valley, ready to attack wagons.
Colonel Hume
Then I'll divide our forces and move my troopers behind Kalmar's men, just on the opposite ridges. When the time comes, the troopers will ride down the slopes, forcing Kalmar's men into the valley so they're between our crossfire. The troopers will move in on the ridges quietly and stay out of sight until the time comes for action.
Tonto
That good idea.
Colonel Hume
Our scouts will inform us if the renegades are there. Then if the wagons don't come at dawn, we'll move on Kalmar's men anyway. And I. Well, I almost hope my Lt. Hume will not be taken alive.
Narrator
Just before dawn, Kalmar's men were waiting in hiding on the slopes of either side of the the valley. Unknown to them, the troopers had moved in quietly on the ridges behind them. As the first rays of the sun came over the horizon, Kalmar, who was sitting on his horse beside Bert Hume, spoke.
Lone Ranger
We'll do big things together, Lieutenant. Of course, if your tip about the wagons is false.
Hal Carver
Wagons will come, Captain. I'm Sure.
Lone Ranger
Good. Those guns mean a lot to us. Before long, people will hear a great deal about Captain Kalmar.
Hal Carver
Yes, indeed, sir.
Lone Ranger
When I rule this section of the country, Lieutenant, I'll see that you too have wealth. With our military training, we'll gradually build a strong army.
Hal Carver
Every man has his dreams, Captain, but few achievements. Captain, the wagons have been sighted. They're just about to enter the valley.
Burt Hume
Good.
Lone Ranger
Good. This is it, Lieutenant. You really proved yourself this time.
Hal Carver
Thank you, sir.
Lone Ranger
In a short time, we'll be moving down to take those wagons. The men have had orders not to let any of the troopers get away. Your father, the colonel is due for some shocking news before the morning is over.
Narrator
Just over each ridge, behind the renegades and gunmen. The troopers from the fort also heard the news about the wagons approaching. Colonel Hume spoke to Toto in puzzlement.
Colonel Hume
Tonto, wagons are coming, eh? I don't understand it.
Tonto
Soon them be in valley and Kalmar's men attack.
Colonel Hume
We'd be right behind them. Hey, I don't want to think about the lieutenant. I hope I don't see him during the battle.
Lone Ranger
Me? No.
Colonel Hume
As soon as they start the attack, the bugler will give the troopers their signal. Then we'll go into action.
Narrator
A short time later, the six wagons were centered in the valley, moving along slowly. Kalmar watched tensely.
Lone Ranger
There they are, Lieutenant. Time has come for me to get the signal. The bugle. Look. Coming over the ridge. Over there behind Army. Ho.
Burt Hume
Ho. Ho, ho.
Hal Carver
That's right.
Lone Ranger
And there are more behind us, Captain.
Narrator
It's a trap.
Lone Ranger
Look at the wagons, Captain.
Narrator
Kalmar looked down at the wagons from each of them. Many troopers were jumping hastily and turning their fire on the renegades.
Lone Ranger
I thunder. You tricked us.
Tonto
I'll oscar humpelak you not shoot the lieutenant.
Narrator
He planned all this.
Tonto
We know that now.
Narrator
Quickly, Toto tied his lariat around Captain Kalmar, who had been wounded in the gun arm. Then, leaving him on the ground like a rope calf, he and Burt went down the slope to get into the fray.
Tonto
Get him up, Scarlet.
Burt Hume
Get up for us.
Narrator
In the valley, the Lone Ranger who had arrived with the wagons was in the thick of the battle. He was determined that all of Kalmar's men be taken. And his flaming gun saved many a trooper from the bullets of the renegade army. Hal Carver, who had led the other half of Kalmar's men, decided to to get away and started down the valley. Hal turned in the saddle and saw the masked man on the big white stallion following him. In a frenzy of fear, he emptied his gun at the oncoming figure. His galloping horse spoiled his aim, and he turned his attention to outrunning the masked man. But the gallant Silver steadily moved closer until, with a whirring sound, a lariat dropped suddenly over Carver and tightened.
Burt Hume
You're not going anywhere.
Lone Ranger
Now get up. I'll take you back with the others.
Burt Hume
The battle is over.
Lone Ranger
Captain Kalmar is finished. Come on, let's go.
Narrator
A short time later, as the troopers moved off with the prisoners carrying the wounded in wagons, the Lone Ranger and Tottle were with the colonel and a small group.
Colonel Hume
The colonel was saying, I still don't know how this all happened.
Lone Ranger
Perhaps it's better if the major who came in the wagon from Fort Stockton explains, Colonel.
Hal Carver
With pleasure. You see, Colonel, this was all arranged between the general at Fort Worth and your son, Lieutenant Hume.
Colonel Hume
Arranged?
Hal Carver
That's right.
Lone Ranger
The general saw your son when he.
Hal Carver
Passed through Fort Worth. They discussed Captain Kalmar's renegade army and its bad effect in this territory. Lt. Hume suggested he try to get in with Kalmar some way. Bert, come here. Yes, sir. You tell the colonel the rest. Well, dad. Sir, we agreed it was best not to let you in on it. You might object to something. The general sent a stay of execution for Carver, hoping I'd be able to get in with him.
Lone Ranger
I understand, Lieutenant, that sending the wagons filled with troopers from Fort Stockton was also your idea.
Hal Carver
That's right. As soon as I succeeded in getting away with Carver, I managed to get word to the major. I sent one of our scouts who was in on the plan. Well, you all know the rest.
Colonel Hume
I don't know what to say.
Lone Ranger
Your son has plenty of courage, Colonel. It took great courage to do what.
Colonel Hume
He did, and I. I gave orders for the men to shoot him on sight.
Hal Carver
That's all right, sir. I. I just kept out of their way.
Colonel Hume
And to think I. I thought you weren't fit to be a soldier. Give me some. You'll go far in the service.
Hal Carver
Thanks, sir.
Lone Ranger
Now that things are under control, Toddle and I'll be getting along, Colonel.
Colonel Hume
Thanks for your help, sir. Because of you and Tonto, we were able to fight and capture all those renegades and cutthroats.
Hal Carver
Yes, I'm afraid we'd have had a hard time of it without the troopers from Fort Leighton, Colonel. I didn't know Kalmar had so many men. And Kalmar would have shot me if it hadn't been for Tano. What's more, I saw the masked man capture Hal Carver. He almost got away.
Lone Ranger
The main thing is Kalmar's renegade army is finished. Men like that don't deserve to live in America. If we're to stay free, we must always be on guard against traitors.
Colonel Hume
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.
Lone Ranger
Thank you, Colonel. We'll see you again sometime. Adios, everyone.
Hal Carver
Dad. Colonel, sir, since I'm new to the west, may I ask who that masked man is?
Colonel Hume
Of course, son. Of course. To me, son, he represents the true spirit of America. A man who fights against all odds without reward or glory to uphold the traditions of our great country and to protect the rights and freedom of its people. Such an American is the Lone Ranger. It's.
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 the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beame.
Burt Hume
Foreign.
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.
Lone Ranger
Become one.
Andrew Rines
Of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739. This episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.
Colonel Hume
Sam.
Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: July 28, 2025
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.
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."
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."
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."
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.
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."
"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.
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