Greed Drowns a Town | The Lone Ranger (08-26-42)

Summary

Detailed Summary: "Greed Drowns a Town" | The Lone Ranger (08-26-42)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Air Date: May 18, 2026 (originally aired August 26, 1942)
Episode Link: Not provided
Digitally Restored Audio

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Episode Overview

"Greed Drowns a Town" plunges listeners into the lawless, greed-fueled world of Sioux City, a Western town teetering between vice and virtue. When young Jim Hardy is cheated out of his savings at Zeke Crompert’s crooked gambling house, a chain of events is set in motion: Jim's father, Old Man Hardy, tries to confront the corrupt power structure, only to be scapegoated. The Lone Ranger and his faithful companion Tonto step in, crafting an ingenious plan that pits Sioux City’s villains against their own avarice. Themes of justice, redemption, and the corrupting influence of greed run throughout, culminating in a dramatic twist that reshapes the fate of the town and its people.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. Establishing the Scene in Sioux City

• Sioux City’s Reputation: Introduced as “the wildest, crookedest town in the West…few people left Sioux City alive” (03:33).
• Crompert’s Cafe: The epicenter of vice and rigged gambling run by the ruthless Zeke Crompert.

2. Jim Hardy’s Loss and Confrontation

• Jim Hardy, a young redhead, loses all his savings to Crompert’s fixed games.
• Quote:
  • Jim Hardy (Young Redhead): “That cash was my past savings… I was welcome enough when I had cash.” (03:48)
  • Zeke Crompert: “You got no rights here. We don’t want kids that are wet back of the ears.” (03:58)
• The Lone Ranger steps in to prevent violence and rebuffs Crompert’s job offer.
  • “I’d sooner starve.” — The Lone Ranger (04:55)

3. Old Man Hardy’s Stand for Justice (06:03 – 08:36)

• Old Man Hardy storms Crompert’s bar, denouncing his corrupting influence on Sioux City.
• Physical confrontation ensues; Old Man Hardy smashes up the bar, but is framed for shooting Crompert’s henchman, Lefty.
• Memorable Quote:
  • Old Man Hardy: “You tend to your business and I’ll run mine… Tonight I saw how you reach out and grab decent people and turn them into rotten wretches like yourself.” (06:24)

4. Lone Ranger and Tonto Rescue Hardy & Plan Retaliation (08:36 – 11:18)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto help Old Man Hardy escape lynching.
• Emotional Moment:
  • Old Man Hardy, believing he has lost his son, laments: “My only son. Lost him? Ran away. Called himself a thief. Branded himself for life.” (09:48)
• The Lone Ranger convinces Hardy to help an Indian village suffering under Crompert’s influence and illegal alcohol sales.

5. The Search for Jim Hardy (11:55 – 14:44)

• Lone Ranger and Tonto track Jim across neighboring towns.
• Jim, remorseful and feeling disgraced, works odd jobs, collects supplies, and heads to the hills for rumored gold.

6. Jim Hardy’s “Secret” and Plan to Smash Crompert (15:40 – 18:15)

• Jim is found hiding in the hills, fearing pursuit over a supposed gold secret.
• The Lone Ranger dispels Jim’s fears, revealing the truth about his father’s survival and enlistment of his help.
• Quote:
  • The Lone Ranger: “You haven’t found gold… but you’re going to find something better, Jim. Honor, glory, and happiness.” (17:52)

7. Crompert’s Greed Unleashed - The Set-Up (19:27 – 21:39)

• Back in town, Jim’s cryptic letter (a ruse orchestrated by the Lone Ranger) falls into Crompert’s hands, suggesting a hidden gold strike.
• Crompert assembles an army of gamblers and outlaws, determined to move a river and uncover the legendary gold.

8. The Exodus and Showdown in the Valley (22:19 – 24:45)

• Lone Ranger orchestrates the evacuation of the Indian village to a safe valley.
• Crompert and his mob arrive and, driven by greed, blast the river back to its original course—symbolic of their blind destruction.

9. The Final Twist: Sioux City Drowned (25:22 – 27:18)

• The river’s return submerges Sioux City—literally drowns the town and its criminal establishments.
• No gold is found; the entire scheme was a trap to rid the region of crooks.
• Revelation:
  • Townsperson: “When you put the river back… you restored Apache Lake. In the basin where Sioux City was, the water started rising… The Lone Ranger planned it all… There’s no gold here. Never was.” (26:10-26:30)
• Parting Shot:
  • Townsperson: “All that’s left for you is this… A silver bullet. A present from the Lone Ranger. My advice is to stop digging gold and try to find some place where you can live without starving.” (27:00)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• [03:33] – Scene set at Crompert’s cafe; Jim Hardy cheated
• [06:03] – Old Man Hardy’s impassioned confrontation
• [08:36] – Lone Ranger and Tonto orchestrate Hardy’s escape
• [11:55] – Lone Ranger and Tonto begin tracking Jim Hardy
• [14:04] – Discovery of Jim Hardy’s mountain camp
• [17:09] – Jim realizes Lone Ranger’s true identity; agrees to help
• [19:27] – Jim’s letter sets Crompert’s greed in motion
• [22:19] – Crompert’s army marches; Sioux City abandoned
• [24:11] – The big dig and river diversion begin
• [26:04] – Townsperson announces Sioux City’s destruction and the truth behind the “gold”
• [27:00] – Delivery of the silver bullet to Crompert as a symbol of justice

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Courage vs. Corruption:
  • Old Man Hardy: “Tonight I saw how you reach out and grab decent people and turn them into rotten wretches like yourself.” (06:24)
• Lone Ranger’s Integrity:
  • “I’d sooner starve.” — Lone Ranger rebuffing Crompert’s offer (04:55)
• The Big Twist:
  • Townsperson: “The Lone Ranger planned it all… There’s no gold here. Never was.” (26:25-26:30)
  • “All that’s left for you is this… A silver bullet. A present from the Lone Ranger.” (27:00)
• Theme of Redemption:
  • The Lone Ranger (to Jim): “You’re going to find something better, Jim. Honor, glory, and happiness.” (17:52)

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Tone and Language

The episode preserves its classic radio drama flair—heroic, earnest, and suspenseful. Dialogue is direct, vivid, and charged with 1940s drama, blending Western grit with moral clarity. The Lone Ranger is level-headed and wise; Hardy is passionate and contrite; Crompert and his men radiate greed and bluster.

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Conclusion

“Greed Drowns a Town” stands as a classic Lone Ranger morality tale. It demonstrates how the pursuit of wealth and power blinds wrongdoers to the true costs of their actions. The Lone Ranger, through cunning strategy and steadfast virtue, not only saves the innocent but cleanses Sioux City of its rot—without firing a shot in anger.

Whether for nostalgia or moral reflection, this digitized episode delivers a powerful lesson in justice, with restoration technology breathing new life into every hoofbeat and gunshot of the original radio adventure.

Transcript

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[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. 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.

[Narrator]

Fiery horse with a speed of light, the cloud of dust and a hearty

[Jim Hardy]

high Old Silver the Lone Ranger.

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the Masked rider of the Plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. The stories of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, have come down to us through the generations. And nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of a great horse.

[Jim Hardy]

Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Come on, Silver, let's cover it. Sioux City Lord Silver.

[Narrator]

Sioux City was the wildest, crookedest town in the West. Dodge City had the reputation that may have been because few people left Sioux City alive. Crompers Cafe was the biggest place in town where one could find every type of gambling, all of it crooked.

[Jim Hardy]

Now, hold on.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

You've taken me for plenty of cash. Let me borrow from someone, won't you, Cropper?

[Zeke Crompert]

You heard what I said, redhead.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Yeah, well, I was welcoming up when I had Cash. I got a right to try and win back, sir.

[Zeke Crompert]

You got no rights here. We don't want kids that are wet back of the ears. Famous. Before I have you thrown out, you

[Jim Hardy]

won't throw me off.

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Take your hands off me.

[Jim Hardy]

Look here, Crawford.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

That cash was my past savings.

[Zeke Crompert]

I've got to win back, son.

[Jim Hardy]

Wait. Hold on, Crawford. Let me talk.

[Zeke Crompert]

Hey, boys, give me a hand. I want to kick this ratty clear across the porch.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why you let him go.

[Zeke Crompert]

Slap me, will you?

[Townsperson]

Hush.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Don't be a fool, Comfort.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're no fighter with fists.

[Jim Hardy]

All right then, I'll use a gun. Oh, my wrist.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't draw a gun in here. You'll get hurt.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Where are you? Go on, youngster.

[The Lone Ranger]

Clear out and stay out. Hurry up.

[Zeke Crompert]

Yes, sir.

[Jim Hardy]

I'm going.

[Zeke Crompert]

I'll get you for this, stranger. No man slaps me and gets away with it.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Go back to your drinks and gambling tables.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pick up that gun and keep it in leather.

[Zeke Crompert]

Hey, just who are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's my affair.

[Zeke Crompert]

Hey, I could use a man like you. How would you like to work for me?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'd sooner starve.

[Townsperson]

Never saw the like of it. Face crompered right down.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hey, just see the way he slapped his gun hand.

[Zeke Crompert]

And then he let him pick up the gun.

[Townsperson]

Never saw anything like it.

Crompered even offered him a job.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wonder who the stranger is.

[Narrator]

Ever seen him around here?

[Townsperson]

He ain't Sioux City type. Look at him sitting in the corner. He's sitting with a redskin. Yes, sir, he's sitting with a redskin.

[The Lone Ranger]

I know. Every game in this place is crooked. The men who play don't have a chance to win.

[Tonto]

Me see young red headed fella, him lose plenty cash.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'd like to have made Crumpert give it back to him.

[Tonto]

Why not do that?

[The Lone Ranger]

They'd returned the money and the boy had taken it. Crumpert's killers would have had it back before morning. That right, the red headed boy would have been dead. Too bad there isn't some way to get rid of men like Crumper.

[Old Man Hardy]

Everyone here listen to me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who's the old man? Not know.

[Zeke Crompert]

Well, if it ain't old man Hardy spouting reform talk.

[Old Man Hardy]

I want it known that I'm here without a gun. I'm here to have a showdown with you, Crumpert. And if I'm killed, everybody here will know I didn't shoot first.

[Zeke Crompert]

Never mind yelling for the whole county to hear. Hardy, see what you got to say and get you don't have anything here that'll interest you.

[Old Man Hardy]

Crumpert, this time you've gone too far.

[Zeke Crompert]

No, no. You don't say so, Hardy. That's too bad. You just write me a letter and complain about it.

[Old Man Hardy]

I mean it. I haven't been here because it's been useless. But tonight. Tonight I saw how you reach out and grab decent people. Decent people and turn them into rotten wretches like yourself.

[Zeke Crompert]

I don't like that talk, Hardy. You tend to your business and I'll run mine without your help. I don't tell you how to do your job.

[Old Man Hardy]

Tonight my son came here.

[Zeke Crompert]

I don't know who your son is. How do I know who comes?

[Old Man Hardy]

My boy's name is Jim. Has red hair. You'll remember him. You took enough cash from him.

[Zeke Crompert]

Oh, that young upstart. You ought to teach him how to play games before you let him go out playing with professionals.

[Old Man Hardy]

I don't blame Jim. I blame myself and others like me who've let you settle here and grow rich and do nothing about it. That's why I'm here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now that you're here, what do you figure on doing?

[Old Man Hardy]

To start with, I'm going to take this bottle from here and throw it there.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Hell do, hottie.

[Old Man Hardy]

I'm gonna wreck this place. Wreck it. Smash every ounce of raw liquor you've got here.

[Jim Hardy]

Stop it.

[Old Man Hardy]

Shoot me, cr. Go ahead and shoot me.

[Jim Hardy]

Make yourself a murderer in the eyes

[Old Man Hardy]

of law and it'll be an excuse to hang here.

[Jim Hardy]

Stop and grab the crazy tool. Hang on to him.

[Old Man Hardy]

Get that gambling wheel.

[Jim Hardy]

He's a fighting fury.

[Tonto]

Grab him.

[Jim Hardy]

Hang on to him. He's wrecking my place. Hit him with that bottle. Knock him down.

[Narrator]

Hardy was a big man, younger than he looked and goaded by a fury that G unthought of strength. He smashed a hard fist into the face of the oncoming bartender. He threw a chair through the mirror back of the bar. He smashed gambling games and tables. Then when Cromper finally grabbed him from behind, the owner of the place felt himself gripped and spun to one side.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Out of the way, Crawford. Come on, Tunnel. We're in this too.

[Jim Hardy]

He's back in the place.

[Old Man Hardy]

Leave me alone.

[Jim Hardy]

Let me on him. Shoot me, Cropper.

[Old Man Hardy]

Shoot me and be a killer.

[Jim Hardy]

Shoot me in hand.

[Zeke Crompert]

Get away with that, Boss.

[Old Man Hardy]

You hit Lefty. It's Lefty you've got.

[Zeke Crompert]

I fired that shot in the air. I. I didn't mean to hit Lefty.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

You.

[Jim Hardy]

You did it, Hardy. Boys, Boys, listen to me. Hardy's the one. He came here with a gun That's a lie.

[Old Man Hardy]

Crowbirds.

[Zeke Crompert]

You gotta back me, boys.

[Jim Hardy]

Hardy came here shooting.

[Townsperson]

That's a story.

[Jim Hardy]

He killed Lefty. Hardy killed Lefty? That's right. Hardy did it. It's Hardy that got him. We gotta stand back at Crawford.

[Old Man Hardy]

Our word again. Hardy.

[Jim Hardy]

Lynch him. Lynch Hardy.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Come on, Hardy.

[Old Man Hardy]

Out of here, stranger. Wait.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Get back, all of you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Stand back or there'll be more shooting in this place.

[Jim Hardy]

Hell. Get the stranger. Oh, my hand.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Anyone else want to draw a gun?

[Jim Hardy]

Stop him. Stop him.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Stay where you are, Hardy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Out of here. Tunnel. Get him on, Silver. I'll ride back up in.

[Old Man Hardy]

I don't care about nothing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quiet. You're needed.

[Tonto]

Hardy, you come out this way.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Everyone stay where you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't come through this door.

[Jim Hardy]

Give me your breath to play, Hardy.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Ready, Tuttle? Any big fella.

[Old Man Hardy]

Get him up.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tono headed for the camp outside of town. In the camp, Hardy was given cool water to drink and Tonto applied soothing dressings to countless bruises. Then, when the older man was rested, the Lone Ranger stepped into the ring of light from the small campfire with a mask concealing the upper part of his face.

[Old Man Hardy]

Mask?

[The Lone Ranger]

I had a disguise when I was in town. Hardy, we.

[Old Man Hardy]

You look different, outlaw. No, it doesn't matter. Nothing matters now.

[The Lone Ranger]

I failed.

[Old Man Hardy]

I was a fool to think any scheme like mine would work.

[The Lone Ranger]

You said you were the father of the boy who lost that money. Yes.

[Old Man Hardy]

He left a note telling me what he'd done. He wouldn't face me. I've lost my son.

[The Lone Ranger]

My only son. Lost him?

[Old Man Hardy]

Ran away. Called himself a thief. Branded himself for life. He'll be an outcast, an outlaw. Like those. Those men in Crumpert's place. It isn't his fault. It's mine. My fault for spending my time with the Indians.

[The Lone Ranger]

I thought you were the missionary.

[Old Man Hardy]

Indians are willing to listen to me. They're the only ones who will.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, there's an Indian village north of here. They need you. Need me? Will you go there?

[Old Man Hardy]

It doesn't matter where I go.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger went with Tonto and Hardy to the Indians who lived in a valley far north of Sioux City. Hardy met the chief through Toto.

[The Lone Ranger]

They like each other. Toto. See how they're talking.

[Tonto]

Ah, chief pretty good Indian. Him want friendship with Settler. Him not like Crumpert.

[The Lone Ranger]

That chief has had a lot of trouble with the Indians who go to Sioux City and visit Crumpert's place. Not right. They come back with whiskey. Crumpert sells them.

[Tonto]

Ah, Indian go to town with plenty Fur from trapping. Sell fur, get cash. Spend cash in cafe. Come back us nothing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hardy can do a lot of good here, Tano. They won't get rid of the evil. The only way to do that is to change conditions in Sioux City. Just a minute.

[Crompert's Henchman]

How do you like this village, Hardy?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why?

[Old Man Hardy]

These Indians are sincere. I've been wasting my time in Sioux City.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll stay here then?

[Old Man Hardy]

I'd like to. There's only one thing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Jim.

[Zeke Crompert]

Yes?

[The Lone Ranger]

We're going to look for him. Hardy, if you're here, we'll know where to find you when we have word.

[Old Man Hardy]

Why should you look for my son? Isn't your worry.

[The Lone Ranger]

I want a man like you with these friends of Tonto. If we try to find Jim, you'll be able to stay here. I'll see you again.

[Zeke Crompert]

We ride now.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Adios, honey.

[Townsperson]

Goodbye.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Come on, little girls.

[Old Man Hardy]

Come.

[Narrator]

In. The days that followed the Lone Ranger in Tonto concentrated on the hunt for Jim Hardy. They picked up his trail after a great deal of effort and followed to the next town.

[Townsperson]

Hardy, was he a lad of about 15 or 16 or thereabouts?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, with red hair. Why do you want him? His father wants to see him.

[Townsperson]

But you're not his pappy. Who are you?

[Zeke Crompert]

Why are you wearing that damn mask?

[The Lone Ranger]

This might identify me. Silver bullet, huh? No.

[Townsperson]

Great day in the morning. You're the Lone Ranger? Well, I'll tell you, that youngster did come through here. He stayed here in the livery stable for a few days working, like all get out. He wanted a horse or pack mule. He wanted to work till he'd earned one. Well, I figured if he stayed much longer, he'd work hisself to nothing but skin and bone. So I give him an old sway back and he shoved on. The last I see was heading north.

Redhead with a swayback horse.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Yeah.

[Townsperson]

He stopped here and worked in my store for a time. Spent three days working hard. Done some repairing to the roof and cleaned the place from front to rear. And did no end of other things.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did you pay him?

[Townsperson]

You might say he did. But he didn't want cash. He wanted vittles and spades and mining tools. Now, there ain't much call for mining tools around this part of the country. Not many goes in for mining. But he made up a pack as best he could. Load her on the swayback and walked alongside. It was a sorry looking outfit when he started on foot, leading the sway back and heading north.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks.

[Townsperson]

But you. Who are you and why? Why are you asking about him?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm a friend of his father,

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger. And Tonto learned that Jim had worked to earn a horse and mining supplies. Then left the towns to head into the hills. Following the trail was slow work. Several times Tonto had to spend hours looking for the familiar marks of Jim's worn boots. Or the irregular steps of the broken down horse. The trail led constantly higher into the hills until.

[The Lone Ranger]

Toto. There's a threat of smoke ahead. I think we're near the end of the trail.

[Tonto]

Maybe that way. Jim may camp.

[The Lone Ranger]

I hope so. Come on, Silver, old fellow. Won't be much farther.

[Tonto]

What we do when we find Jim?

[The Lone Ranger]

We need him, Tano. Need him to smash comfort.

[Jim Hardy]

Hey, you. Where are you going?

[Tonto]

Not Jim Hardy.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Jim. We want you.

[Jim Hardy]

Keep away from here. I'm on my own now.

[Crompert's Henchman]

He came from your father. He wants to see you.

[Jim Hardy]

I don't want to see him. Don't come closer. I heard what happened to Tom.

[Crompert's Henchman]

I don't care what you heard.

[Jim Hardy]

Empire.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Stop that shooting.

[Jim Hardy]

I mean it, mister. I'm not being taken a prisoner. That shot was just a warning. You can't get me on back of a rock.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Nevertheless, we're coming after you. You're not going to shoot us. Come on, boy.

[Jim Hardy]

Keep back. I tell you. Don't come closer. I'll let you have it. Stop where you are. You hear me? Stop.

[Zeke Crompert]

The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger story. Before the next exciting scenes.

[Narrator]

Please permit us to pause for just a few moments. Now to continue our story. Shots rang from the rocks above the Lone Ranger. In Tonto, Jim Hardy's called out a grim warning.

[Jim Hardy]

Don't come nearer. I'll let you have it. Stop where you are. You hear me? Stop.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. Stay there, boy.

[Narrator]

The masked man guided Silver up the last steep incline. Toward the summit of the rock strewn hill.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Your father sent us, Jim. And we want to tell you where he is.

[Jim Hardy]

I know you, Gabe. Get back. Doggone it.

[Townsperson]

Please.

[Jim Hardy]

I don't want to kill a man. Not even an outlaw. Get back.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steady there, Jim. We're not outlaws.

[Jim Hardy]

Keep away from me.

[The Lone Ranger]

There. I'll take that gun for a while.

[Jim Hardy]

Let me go. Why can't Cromper leave me alone? I'm not hurting him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Jim. You think we came from Cromford?

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Where else you come from?

[Jim Hardy]

That mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

Crompers gang don't wear masks. You should know that crooks don't have to wear masks in Sioux City. I told you I came from your father.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

That's not true. Pa's dead.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where did you hear that?

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

I got the News stayed around the towns near Sioux City long enough to hear about it. Crawford's dirty double dealer. Polkat French lynch my pa. Jim.

[The Lone Ranger]

Jim, you're all wrong.

[Tonto]

We come with plenty good news. We fetch true story.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

You mean Pa's alive?

[The Lone Ranger]

Of course he's alive. We can take you to him.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

You're not from Cromford.

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

You didn't trail me to steal my secret?

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't know you had a secret. Sit down here a minute, Jim. We've got to get a lot of things straightened out.

[Narrator]

During the next few minutes, the Lone Ranger told Jim just what had happened in Sioux City. After the redheaded boy had left the the community, Jim realized that in the voice of a soft spoken masked man, he was hearing the truth.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Wait. Jumping Juniper. Now I got it. You're the man that helped me get out of there. You slapped his face or Jumping Juniper. What a fool I was.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, Jim, tell me about your secret and I'll tell you how we're going to try and smash Crompert. I'll tell you why I asked your father to make friends with the Indians to the north. Why I'm so anxious to have your help.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

All there is to it is that. Well, there's been stories of gold in this mountain.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Well, I talked too much when I was in one town working to earn my horse. I said something about having an inside tip as to whether it was gold I didn't have. I was just talking big. I guess I thought Croppert was out to steal my secret. Maybe shoot me to get it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, I see. Well, you haven't found gold. Not yet you won't. But you're going to find something better, Jim. Honor, glory and happiness. Here's how you'll get it. Hello. Over here. While we lay out our plans.

[Narrator]

A few days later, Jim returned to the home he had lived in before the trouble. He was seen by several of the townsmen and people wondered at his gay, happy attitude as he packed a few personal belongings and carried them to a buckboard. Finally, one of Zeke Cromford's friends came up to the house.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Hi there. How are you, Dan?

[The Lone Ranger]

Not as cheerful as you seem to be. What's got into you, Hardy?

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Oh, nothing much. Say, Dan, are you going back into town?

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure I am.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

I wonder if you'd take this letter to the post office. It's mighty important.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure thing.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Are you aiming to go now, Dan? I'm not saying a thing about my business savvy.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right. I. I didn't mean to Pry.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

It wouldn't do to tell what I know. Maybe someday I'll let a few friends in on it. We'll see. And don't forget that letter, Dan. It means a lot to me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah, sure enough I won't forget it.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

And give Gord my best. Tell him I'll take care of him someday.

[Jim Hardy]

Get up there, Bo.

[Narrator]

He drove off as if he was a millionaire.

[Tonto]

That old swayback hauling the buckboard.

[Zeke Crompert]

But you couldn't find out about him?

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Zeke Crompert]

I didn't take any stock in it when I heard he was going to prospect.

[The Lone Ranger]

Crumper, you don't think he really struck something, do you?

[Zeke Crompert]

I don't know. Let me see the letter he gave you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here it is. Said it was mighty important.

[Tonto]

It's to an outfit in the East.

[Zeke Crompert]

I know that outfit.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hey, now we can't mail it.

[Zeke Crompert]

Who said I intended to mail it? I want to know what's in it. Says his old man is working with the engines.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is that where he went?

[Zeke Crompert]

Hey, hold on. Maybe we've got to hold us up ahead.

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Zeke Crompert]

The river runs past the place where those redskins live. It's running in a different bend than it used to. Do you know why? That river's got a different course than it used to have.

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Zeke Crompert]

Dan, listen. We're onto something big.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mighty big.

[Zeke Crompert]

Are you savvy? What's in this litter? Oh, I'm no fool.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hey, Crawford, what are you getting at? What about that river?

[Zeke Crompert]

Suppose a long time ago a gold strike was made. But the critter that found it wanted to keep it hidden. Suppose he used a lot of redskins, having them help him dig a new course for the river so it'd hide his discovery.

[The Lone Ranger]

But what good would the gold do him?

[Zeke Crompert]

Suppose he died and never did get the gold? Then along comes someone else.

[Townsperson]

Go on.

[The Lone Ranger]

Go on.

[Zeke Crompert]

Crumpet, the Indians have got that land now. Would the gold belong to them or to whoever finds it?

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't know.

[Zeke Crompert]

Imagine that fool writing ass what the law says on the situation of that sword. Oh, I got it all straight. Old man Hardy found out about the gold. He wants to make sure where he stands before he touches it.

[Old Man Hardy]

See, I got it.

[Zeke Crompert]

But we'll beat him to it. We'll put that river back where it belongs before he gets the redskins to do it. Now, call all my friends together. I'm forming a company, and those that want part of it can fight. They can fight the redskins. How many others want to take the chase? Some of us might get shot down.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Some of us Will get rich. I'm with you.

[Townsperson]

The more we get, the less chance there is of being shot. We'll lick the redskins.

[Crompert's Henchman]

We'll dry mud.

[Jim Hardy]

We'll get Hardy, too.

[Zeke Crompert]

I still want Hardy hanging on a rope.

[Narrator]

Jim drove slowly toward the north, then camped at night and on the second day continued the pace that was suited to the old horse that pulled his buckboard. Then towards sunset, he heard horsemen coming from behind.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

It's a Lone Ranger. You been in Sioux City?

[Zeke Crompert]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

And? Everything's in a terminal?

[Jim Hardy]

No.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Is that so?

[The Lone Ranger]

Kind of looked over the land while I investigated. The people Comfort is forming an army. He's getting together tools and wagons, horses and men, and they're going to head north.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Will I get to Pa before they get there?

[Old Man Hardy]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll ride on ahead and tell your father you're coming.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Come on.

[Townsperson]

Silver.

[Narrator]

Cromford had his army ready. Almost every man in town was with him. Outlaw and gamblers of every description. They packed tools, gunpowder and additional weapons into wagons, then mounted their horses and waited for the signal to start. Crompers. Place was closed, as were all the other cafes and gambling houses. Sioux City was abandoned for the time so the men could take war to the Indians and drive them from their valley in the hills.

[Crompert's Henchman]

Come on, boys.

[Zeke Crompert]

The sooner we get there, the sooner we'll be rich.

[Jim Hardy]

Get up there.

[Old Man Hardy]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Jim reached the Indians and his father.

[Old Man Hardy]

Jim, I'd given up hope of ever seeing you again.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

I've got lots coming to me, but. Well, that can wait. There's something more important to be done.

[Zeke Crompert]

Yes, sir.

[Old Man Hardy]

The Lord Ranger's here.

[The Lone Ranger]

He told me there isn't any time to lose.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Just tell what you want done.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hello. Signaling from the next hill that conference men are coming. I'll be here soon after dark.

[Old Man Hardy]

Are they that close?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. Know has left his post and he's on his way here. We've got to get these Indians out of the valley. Tell the chiefs they must move, not defend their valley.

[Old Man Hardy]

I'll tell the chief.

[Jim Hardy (Young Redhead)]

Where can they go?

[The Lone Ranger]

I told your father of another valley to the west. They can go there. Won't be for long. Then they can come back.

[Narrator]

Indian drum sounded the message through the hills. Hunters returned as fast as their ponies would bring them. Wigwams were knocked down, packed and loaded. And in an incredibly short time, the red men were ready to move. In the meantime, Tonto arrived.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sunset. Tonto, Indians are moving out already.

[Tonto]

Indian like Hardy.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's crude of the way. The chief listens to him.

[Tonto]

Chief believe all hearty.

[Old Man Hardy]

Tell him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, how does. Jim. Jim. Get your horse. We're moving now.

[Narrator]

After dark, Sioux City crooks arrive.

[Zeke Crompert]

Yeah, let's be told the redskins heard us coming.

[Narrator]

And clear down.

[Townsperson]

It shows that they're scared of it. Yeah, we got the place without so much as find a single shot. This is the best yet.

[Zeke Crompert]

Now we'll all share in the cold. Now, what's the use of wasting time? Dan, you take six men and post guards. The rest of you come with me. I'll show you where to start digging. Are you men in the wagons?

[Jim Hardy]

Follow along.

[Zeke Crompert]

With a blast to Impossible. Come on.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Get up there.

[Zeke Crompert]

Here's this team.

[Narrator]

We've got to move.

[Zeke Crompert]

Steady, boy. Woo.

[The Lone Ranger]

They.

[Zeke Crompert]

Oh, steady. Hey, there. But we've got to change that course.

[Townsperson]

Sure of it, Crompa.

[Zeke Crompert]

Here's what'll make you howl. I found the whole thing diagrammed in Jim Hardy's letter. Hey, look. Look, Yandy. See where the moon falls in that arroyo? That's where the water used to blow run. If we work fast and dig right, it'll be there again by sunrise.

[Jim Hardy]

Now dig. Come on here, you boys, dig. That's it. Come on here.

[Narrator]

At dawn, the blasts were fired. The river gushed and Gerd then settled into a new course, crushing down a different side of a hill.

[Townsperson]

We did it.

[Jim Hardy]

We did it, boys.

[Narrator]

As soon as they could, the men began to dig. With the river had been. They worked feverishly at first, then more slowly as exhaustion overcame them. After the first day of digging, they went at the job more methodically, working in shifts. Hunger assailed them because no one wanted to leave the place to hunt for food. Hard labor was unknown to these men, and their muscles cried out in torment. But they kept on, lured by promise of great wealth. Day after day they worked, sleeping as little as possible, until a week had passed. Then an old man arrived.

[The Lone Ranger]

You come from Sioux City.

[Townsperson]

Fools. Fools, all of you. There is no Sioux City.

[Zeke Crompert]

What's this I hear about you coming from the city?

[Townsperson]

Crumpet? You've been fooled. Look it up yonder on that hill. Those men have been watching you for some time. Laughing, I'll bet. There's Jim Hardy, his father, the Lone Ranger in Tondo. And some of the Indians have moved to beyond the next hill.

[Zeke Crompert]

What are you talking about?

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that about the.

[Townsperson]

When you put the river back where it used to be, you restored Apache Lake. In the basin where Sioux City was, the water started rising, kept rising. Them of us that was left too old to ride with you went to the only place estate above water. The hill where Hardy lived. We're in his house now. We found the whole thing written out for us. The Lone Ranger planned it all. The Lone Ranger that there's no gold here. Never was. It was arranged to let Jim and to let Dan have that letter, nor to be read, not mailed. My cafe underwater. My place underwater. It was all washed out. Only place left is an island with Hardy's house on it. Trumpet, you were so doggone smart you washed out your own town. All that's left for you is this, wrapped in the letter we found in Hardy's house. Bullet. A silver one. A present from the Lone Ranger. My advice is to stop digging gold and try to find some place where you can live without starving.

[Crompert's Henchman]

I won't live Party.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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.