Gulch Creek Crooks | The Lone Ranger (10-25-40)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: The Lone Ranger – "Gulch Creek Crooks" (10-25-40)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Title: Gulch Creek Crooks | The Lone Ranger (10-25-40)
Release Date: October 4, 2025

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Episode Overview

This classic radio drama throws listeners into a high-stakes cattle drive across Texas, where the honest Larkin family and their friend Rocky Caldwell face the infamous Gulch Creek Gang—cunning rustlers plotting to steal a herd worth everything to the Larkins. As suspense builds, The Lone Ranger and his loyal companion Tonto quietly observe and maneuver, using their wits to outsmart the outlaws and protect justice on the frontier. Restored and delivered with pristine audio, the episode embodies the golden age of radio Westerns—blending danger, intrigue, and classic heroism.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Stage: Larkin Ranch in Peril

• Nancy Larkin and her father Abe Larkin discuss the strain of keeping their ranch afloat amid financial struggles and frequent cattle thefts.
• Rocky Caldwell, Abe's hopeful son-in-law, returns to help after a significant cattle sale meant to repay debts.
• Tension: Abe only receives payment for the cattle upon safe delivery, making the drive to the railway fraught with risk from the Gulch Creek Gang.

  "If that 1500 head of cattle is stolen... We'll be licked, huh?"
  — Nancy and Abe Larkin, (07:27–07:38)

2. Trouble in Town: Suspicion and Warnings

• Rocky shops in town, warned about strangers who may be Gulch Creek rustlers in disguise (09:03–10:41).
• He confronts a mysterious stranger—who is, in fact, the Lone Ranger himself, though Rocky doesn't recognize him.

  "This town’s an odd sort of place. It’s healthy enough for men living here, but the climate is mighty unsuited to strangers."
  — Rocky Caldwell to Lone Ranger, (11:03–11:18)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto strategize, choosing to observe the cattle drive and anticipate the gang's tactics (13:38–14:44).

3. Preparing for the Cattle Drive

• The Larkins and Rocky gather ranch hands for the daunting journey, debating the wisdom of Nancy joining the drive.

  "A cattle drive ain’t no place for a girl like you."
  — Abe Larkin, (19:34–19:39)

• Rocky lays out a plan: rest the cattle at Devil’s Pass—the likeliest place for an ambush (20:13–20:37).

4. Ambush Anticipation & Changing Tactics

• The Lone Ranger astutely predicts the Gulch Creek Gang will avoid attacking where they’re expected, suggesting the real danger is elsewhere (21:08–21:53).
• Tension builds as Rocky, uneasy, senses an attack is still coming and instructs his men to stay vigilant (22:25–23:54).

5. Surprise at the Train Yards

• The cattle reach the train with no attack. The Larkins begin to hope their ordeal is over (25:49–26:16).
• Something feels off with the train's coupling and engineer’s behavior—as pointed out by the Lone Ranger and Tonto (27:48–28:12).

  "What matter the answer? The men running that engine don't know their job. They're bungling it. I want to look in that engine cab. The Gallups Creek gang is smarter than we thought!"
  — The Lone Ranger, (28:00–28:12)

6. Showdown & Resolution

• The Lone Ranger discovers the outlaws have disguised themselves as train engineers to steal the entire cattle train (28:12–29:02)!
• In a daring move, he swings onto the engine, holds the gang at gunpoint, and forces them to surrender (29:02–29:18).

  "Stop this train or I’ll stop it for you! You won’t get me. Quick. Stop this train!"
  — The Lone Ranger, (29:10–29:18)

• The real train crew is found tied up, the gang foiled. The Lone Ranger declines any reward, ensuring Rocky gets it—so he can finally buy into the ranch and marry Nancy (29:36–30:24).

  "I don't need the cash to buy a half interest in the ranch."
  — The Lone Ranger, (30:09–30:14)
  “And then, by ginger, we’ll have a wedding!”
  — Rocky Caldwell, (30:24–30:27)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Abe Larkin’s desperation:

  "If that 1500 head of cattle is stolen? We'll be licked, huh?"
  — Nancy and Abe Larkin, (07:27–07:38)

• Rocky’s warning to the Lone Ranger (not knowing his real identity):

  "I’d sure hate to be in the shoes of a man that’s really a member of that gang. Especially if it happens to be Abe Larkin's cattle that he was thinking about."
  — Rocky Caldwell, (12:02–12:18)

• The Lone Ranger’s deduction at the train yard:

  "The Gallups Creek gang is smarter than we thought. Come on, Taddo."
  — The Lone Ranger, (28:00–28:12)

• Rocky’s awe at the Lone Ranger’s heroics:

  "You haven't—the last man done it. I never seen riding like that. What a horse that white one is!"
  — Rocky Caldwell, (29:36–29:39)

• The happy resolution:

  "You'll have the cash. You'll buy my ranch. Half of your ranch, Lin and oh...
  And then by ginger, we'll have a wedding!*"
  — Abe Larkin and Rocky Caldwell, (30:14–30:27)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [04:21] – Narrator sets the era and Lone Ranger’s role in defending the frontier
• [07:06] – The financial stakes and risks are revealed
• [09:03] – Rocky warned in town; hint of outlaws in disguise
• [13:52] – The Lone Ranger and Tonto plan their intervention
• [20:13] – Rocky and Abe’s cattle drive strategy
• [21:08] – Anticipating the ambush at Devil’s Pass
• [25:49] – At the train yard; sense of something amiss
• [28:00] – Lone Ranger discovers the stolen engine plot
• [29:08] – The Lone Ranger boards the train and stops the heist
• [30:14] – Rewards, ranch partnership, and a wedding

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Summary & Tone

Rich with suspense, Western grit, and vintage radio drama charm, this episode of The Lone Ranger brings listeners an action-packed tale of loyalty, deception, and clever heroism. From wary conversations over supper to thundering hoofbeats in the night and a showdown at the railway, the frontier’s dangers and resolve come alive. The Lone Ranger’s humble refusal for material reward and the warmly resolved partnership and wedding plans close the tale on a heartening note. The episode’s dialogue, humor, and period flavor are faithfully preserved—inviting old fans and newcomers alike to revel in radio’s golden storytelling.

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Transcript

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[Nancy Larkin]

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 the hearty hi O Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Nancy Larkin]

Sam.

[Rocky Caldwell]

It'S.

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[Narrator]

The rich grazing land of Texas made cattle raising the first great industry in the western United States. But the outlaw bands that roamed the frontier attacked the trail herds at every opportunity. The lives and property of the ranchers were in constant danger until the masked ratter of the plains started his fight for law and order. It was he, more than any other man, who put an end to rustling and made the new country safe for honest men and women. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again Come on, Silver.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Thomas. Waiting on the trail ahead. We've got to hurry. I'll see.

[Narrator]

Nancy Larkin stood in the doorway of the ranch house and watched her father's young saddle his horse and turned it loose in the corral.

[Paul Larkin]

Poor old Pa.

[Nancy Larkin]

Seems that everything's been against him. Mustn't let him know that he's changed so in the past few months. Wouldn't help any. Hi there, Paul. Come on in. I'm waiting for you.

[Paul Larkin]

I'm coming, Nancy. Is there anything wrong?

[Nancy Larkin]

Of course there's nothing wrong.

[Paul Larkin]

I was just putting the horse into the corral.

[Nancy Larkin]

Well, come in now and tell me all about the trip to town. Did the deal go through all right?

[Paul Larkin]

Yeah, the deal went through. Oh, it's good to sit down.

[Nancy Larkin]

Wouldn't you rather come inside?

[Paul Larkin]

The steps will do. Air's good.

[Nancy Larkin]

You really sold off the cattle, huh? You get your price for it?

[Paul Larkin]

Yep. The papers are all drawed up.

[Nancy Larkin]

Oh, well, that's grand. You cummed a lot on making that sale. I should think you'd have come home whooping her up.

[Paul Larkin]

I reckon I'm getting on in years, Nancy. These hot days are hard on me.

[Nancy Larkin]

Look, tell me about it. How many head of cattle?

[Paul Larkin]

1500.

[Nancy Larkin]

Oh, that's grand. That'll be enough cash to pay off your debts and leave something over, won't it?

[Paul Larkin]

I reckon so. Oh, well, we may as well go inside. Supper about ready.

[Nancy Larkin]

Won't take but a minute. You wash up and I'll get things spread out.

[Paul Larkin]

Helps a lot having pump in the house, don't it, honey?

[Nancy Larkin]

Sure does.

[Paul Larkin]

I don't suppose you heard from Rocky?

[Nancy Larkin]

Why?

[Paul Larkin]

Just wondering. Have you?

[Nancy Larkin]

No, I haven't.

[Paul Larkin]

He's a fine man. I sort of hoped we'd get to like him.

[Nancy Larkin]

He's mighty independent.

[Paul Larkin]

Where's that towel?

[Nancy Larkin]

Yes?

[Paul Larkin]

I can't. Fuller, ask me understand what ails that local young maverick. It's just doggone foolishness that he won't take a share of this ranch of mine instead of trying to buy himself a ranch of his own.

[Nancy Larkin]

That cut it independently. Here, Paul. Just like I said. He feels that he's got to make his own way in the world. But tell me about things. Now that the cattle are sold, we'll be able to get some of the things we need, won't we?

[Paul Larkin]

Maybe so, when I get the cash.

[Nancy Larkin]

You got something on deposit, though.

[Paul Larkin]

Well, honey, things are different than there was since the war. There's an awful lot of cattle in this part of the country. The prices are way low, and men that buy make their own terms.

[Nancy Larkin]

You didn't get any cash at all?

[Paul Larkin]

Well, no. But, Pa, I couldn't help it, honey. The big buyers don't pay nothing till the cattle is delivered to them in the East. In that way, they don't stand to lose if the stock is stole.

[Nancy Larkin]

Stolen?

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, there's been a heap of cattle stolen.

[Nancy Larkin]

The dark creek game?

[Paul Larkin]

I reckon so. Don't dish me up very much, honey. I. I ain't hungry.

[Nancy Larkin]

You're worried, Paul.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, now, Nancy.

[Nancy Larkin]

Yeah. Oh, you poor dear.

[Paul Larkin]

Well, I have more cowhands, but they're hard to get and want to slide a pay. Moving cattle has got to be a dangerous job since that Gorse Creek bunch started in.

[Nancy Larkin]

It would be a hard drive to the railroad, huh?

[Paul Larkin]

Plenty hard, even if we had a lot of men. Which way?

[Nancy Larkin]

Rocky said he'd be here for the roundup and run if you made a sale.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, Rocky'll help us, but he's only one man. There's a lot of strangers around town. I tried to hire some, but they wasn't interested. Oh, that's what worries me some too. These strangers might be some of that girl's quick gang. Find it out when there's to be a heavy run of cattle that can be stole without too much trouble.

[Nancy Larkin]

Pa, let me ask one thing. Well, how hard will you be hit if that 1500 head of cattle is stolen?

[Paul Larkin]

I don't like to think of it, Nancy.

[Nancy Larkin]

We'll be licked, huh?

[Paul Larkin]

Licked plenty. Flat broke. That's what it'll mean, girl. And hang it all, it ain't right.

[Nancy Larkin]

Poor Pa.

[Paul Larkin]

I wonder where Rocky is right now.

[Narrator]

That moment, Rocky was buying supplies at the best cafe in town.

[Paul Larkin]

So this is all for your girl, eh, Rocky? That's right. So pack it careful. Good to see you back in these parts. I reckon Abe and Nancy will be right glad to see you. I don't know. Maybe I don't get the welkin sign there since the last time. Abe has been buying up pretty plain grub lately. Never mind that. Reckon this fancy eating will be a real treat for him. Wrap it up and don't wag your tongue so much. Say, Abe was here in town today, did you hear? He was? Yeah. Closed the big cattle deal. 1500 head. You gotta tell that to everyone around here. Shucks. Ain't anyone that ain't heard about it by this time, I expect. Not with a tongue like yours. It's loose at both ends. I suppose you'll be helping Abe when he runs those critters to the railroad. Won't you? If he wants me to help, he can. Now, will you get that grub wrapped up? Just thought, Rocky, there's something you should know. Well, this Gulf's Creek outfit. I heard all about them dirty mavericks rustling all sides. How many of that bunch know about Abe Sales? I don't know. But there's members of the gang in town. I can tell you that. How do you know? I sold riddles to one a while ago. Point him out. Now, I'm just going on a hunt. But I was on the stage. You know, play acting for a time. Sure, sure. But get to the point. Being, on the stage, I can see where a man's face is disguised. And there's a man in here right now that's showing the face that ain't his. Cruel. Where's he at? Sitting at the table in the corner. That package beside him has a lot of grub racked up for packing on a trip. You see him? The gentle, the broad shoulders? Yeah, I see him. The thing that makes me suspect him is that there was a redskin sitting nearby when Abe was talking his deal over. Then as soon as Abe left, this injun hustled out to meet that stranger, then rode away. Stranger come in.

[Narrator]

Bought vittle.

[Paul Larkin]

I see. Now, don't let on I said anything. No, no, I won't. Just hold that package for a time. What you gonna do? Have a couple of words with that stranger. Now, don't get me involved. I won't. How old are you, stranger?

[Narrator]

Well.

[Paul Larkin]

Mind if I sit?

[Narrator]

Go ahead.

[Paul Larkin]

Just for a minute. Something I thought I should tell you. Well, this town's an odd sort of place. It's healthy enough for men that are living here but the climate is mighty unsuited to strangers.

[Narrator]

I see. That won't bother me, though. I'm not here for my health.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh. Oh, you ain't? Well, this precious little business here. You know, a man that's not known just can't do business around here.

[Narrator]

I'm not here on business.

[Paul Larkin]

I see. Just sort of passing through, is that it?

[Narrator]

Perhaps.

[Paul Larkin]

You'll likely be pulling out before sundown, I suppose.

[Narrator]

That's hard to tell.

[Paul Larkin]

I just thought I'd make mention of it. The place is unhealthy, as I said, during the daytime. But it's twice as unhealthy at night.

[Narrator]

Thanks for telling me.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, that's all right. I figure I'm giving all strangers sort of fair warning as to what they can look for.

[Narrator]

I'll be on guard.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, by the way, stranger, have you Ever heard of the Gulch Creek gang?

[Narrator]

Yes, just happens that I have heard about them. Why?

[Paul Larkin]

Well sir, there was a gent around here a while ago and he was just suspicioned of being with that outfit. It was horrible to see what happened to him. Is that so? Uh huh. I'd sure hate to be in the shoes of a man that's really a member of that gang. Especially if it happens to be Abe Larkin's cattle that he was thinking about.

[Narrator]

You know Abe Larkin?

[Paul Larkin]

I figure on someday marrying his daughter.

[Narrator]

You do?

[Paul Larkin]

I thought I'd mention that so you'd know.

[Narrator]

Oh, I am glad to know it.

[Paul Larkin]

If by any chance, mister, you happen to run into any of the Gulch Quick rustlers, you. You might mention the fact that I'm personally going to deal with any of them that have notions about the Larkin livestock.

[Narrator]

I'll tell the Ghost Creek men if I see any of them.

[Paul Larkin]

Good.

[Narrator]

Wait, one thing more. You must be Rocky Caldwell.

[Paul Larkin]

Know my name, is that it? Yeah, but Honda Dickens, you know it? I've heard it mentioned. I must get along now.

[Narrator]

Glad to have seen you, Rocky.

[Rocky Caldwell]

But how did you.

[Narrator]

I'll remember all that you told me.

[Paul Larkin]

If that don't be at all, I thunder he knew me. There's your package of grub, Rocky. What'd the stringer have to say? Who is he anyhow? Hang it all, he knew my name. I couldn't figure him out. Seemed to have a sort of half grin on his face. All the time I was speaking to him, I didn't see no grin. It was in his mouth. It was sort of in his eyes. Those eyes, they seem to look right through me. Rocky, you're getting downright local. By thunder. Maybe I am. But those eyes seem.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger raced out of town and headed for a distant wooded area where Tonto had made camp. When he reached a clearing where the faithful Indian was waiting, he reined in the great horse silver and handed down the food and supplies he had purchased. And there we are.

[Paul Larkin]

Tanto.

[Narrator]

Food and supplies to last a long time.

[Paul Larkin]

That good?

[Narrator]

That should be enough there to last for at least two weeks.

[Paul Larkin]

What's your plan?

[Narrator]

I don't know yet. Maybe some time before we have the chance to stop for food.

[Paul Larkin]

Not hunt, not fish.

[Narrator]

We may not be able to. We might be riding a cattle trail. Oh, I met Rocky Caldwell Kimasabe. I like him.

[Paul Larkin]

Him friend.

[Narrator]

He's a friend of Abe Larkin. He's going to marry his daughter, Nancy. Oh, he thought I was a member of the Ghost Creek gang. I didn't tell him otherwise.

[Paul Larkin]

What you find out?

[Narrator]

Rocky's worried about the Ghost Creek outfit. He thinks he'll try to steal the Larkin cattle when it's run to the railroad.

[Paul Larkin]

You not unsaddled silver?

[Narrator]

No. We're riding. Tada. Get scout.

[Paul Larkin]

Yes, scout.

[Narrator]

We're going to ride the trail. The Larkin cattle will be taken over.

[Paul Larkin]

Why do that, Tata?

[Narrator]

The Galls Creek gang is small. There aren't many men in it. They depend on careful planning and a lot of cleverness to get away with their raids.

[Paul Larkin]

That right?

[Narrator]

Pack up some of that food in the saddlebags and I'll carry the rest. We're going to study that trail and try and determine where the gang would most likely attack. We'll try and use a strategy of the Ghost Creek gang against them. After we studied the land, I want to head for Lin's place at Abe Larin's ranch. That evening. The old man and Rocky made final arrangements for the roundup and the big drive.

[Paul Larkin]

That's all we can do, Rocky. Get the best men we can and trust to luck. Well, we'll at least give that Ghost Creek gang a hard fight. Hang it all though, Rocky. From what I heard of the way that outfit works, there ain't much fighting a man can do.

[Nancy Larkin]

You've talked long enough about the cattle drive. For mercy sakes, Paul, you're getting too head up about it.

[Paul Larkin]

No.

[Nancy Larkin]

Maybe the Ghost Quick gang won't show up at all.

[Paul Larkin]

I'm afraid you're wrong, honey. This all man in town? That I'm dead sure was one of them.

[Nancy Larkin]

Well, we won't worry anymore. We'll do our best and that's all anyone can do. Now tell us about your trip, Rocky.

[Paul Larkin]

Nancy's right. Let's change the subject, son. Did you find a little place to buy? No. Everyone around here wants sky high prices for land. Then why don't you buy into this place? I'll make over half the place to you. And you can pay when you get the cash. No, can't afford it, Mr. Larkin. And I won't buy what I can't afford. I don't aim to get married with a big debt. But hang it, what's the odds? Reckon I'm just plain stuff and I. Hi there. Hey, what you doing?

[Nancy Larkin]

Said you're going crazy.

[Paul Larkin]

I'm shooting out the window with him. That man I saw, the Ghost Crick man. He was right outside there looking in.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Let me add him.

[Paul Larkin]

Don't shoot. Crazy.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Can I see him?

[Paul Larkin]

That white horse yonder.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Rocky Kid missed again.

[Paul Larkin]

Away he's got away. It's gone. Look, there's another rider joining them out yonder. Now we're in for Ling. Now we're in for sure. The Goats Crick gang is watching us and waiting.

[Narrator]

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

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[Paul Larkin]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. During the next few days, the Lone Ranger rode across the plains with Tonto, studying the ground near the cattle trail. The Larkin ranch hands completed their roundup. The stubborn longhorns were herded together at the point where the dry was to begin. Then, when everything was ready, Rocky signaled Abe Larin, who rode up with Nancy.

[Paul Larkin]

We're all set, Mr. Larkin. Good. How does the stock look to you, Rocky? Prime. It should go through the trip in first class shape and not lose a lot of weight.

[Nancy Larkin]

Have you seen anything more? That man you shot at the other night.

[Paul Larkin]

Not a sign of him. Nancy all set to go, huh? Yep. Well, we'll be back soon. We hope, Nancy. Not more. In a couple of days maybe, if we have luck.

[Nancy Larkin]

Oh, I'm riding with you.

[Paul Larkin]

What?

[Nancy Larkin]

Of course.

[Paul Larkin]

But a cattle drive ain't no place for a girl like you.

[Nancy Larkin]

I can ride as well as anyone and shoot pretty well. You'll need all the riders you can get.

[Paul Larkin]

Now, look, honey, with you to worry about if trouble comes.

[Nancy Larkin]

Nobody has to worry about me. You just worry about that cattle. I'm riding herds. Let's go.

[Paul Larkin]

Look, Nancy, I'll tell you what. We'll meet halfway. You and your paw stay here and wait. You start out tomorrow.

[Nancy Larkin]

Why the matter?

[Paul Larkin]

We plan to hole up for one day. And the Devil's Pass the slime grazing there. And that'll give the cattle A chance to graze and keep the weight up. Then you'll be able to catch up to us. Your paw can wait with you. I'll do it, Nancy. Then you'll know you ain't being left behind. You'll catch up to us easy. Don't you see? And we'll all get to the station of the railroad at the same time.

[Nancy Larkin]

All right, get up. Get up there.

[Paul Larkin]

What's the good idea, Rocky? You got something up your sleeve? Laram I figure the Devil's Pass is where this Gulch Creek outfit will try and attack us. It's a likely place. The only place on the trail where they could attack us in the ambush. You savvy? Yeah. Once past the Devil's Pass, there won't be no danger. The attack don't come there. It just won't come. All right, son. Heaven help you. See? At the station in a few days. Right.

[Rocky Caldwell]

All set, boys. Let's get started. Ring r. Keep the piping close. Come on now.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger in Tonto waited at Devil's Pass all day. It was less than an hour before sunset when they saw a cloud of dust in the distance. And there they come. Tado.

[Paul Larkin]

We wait here. Vanguard, huh?

[Narrator]

If an attack is made, we can at least help fight.

[Paul Larkin]

Not right. No wonder.

[Narrator]

Kimasabe. Something mighty odd.

[Paul Larkin]

Is it possible that the Gulch Creek.

[Narrator]

Gang is going to let 1500 head of cattle pass here unmolested?

[Paul Larkin]

Maybe you not plan right. What you say? Gulch Creek Gang. Smart they are. You think this only place where attack come? Gulch Creek gang maybe figure this bad place make attack.

[Narrator]

I wonder if you're right. Surprise is always one of the elements that plays an important part in the work of that gang.

[Paul Larkin]

No surprise of attack. Come here.

[Narrator]

You have an idea? This is a place where an attack would be looked for. Therefore, there'll be no attack here. It'll come as a surprise.

[Paul Larkin]

Yet.

[Narrator]

Where else could it come? A watch was kept throughout the night not only by the cattlemen but also by the Lone Ranger in Tonto. There was no sign of an attack. The next morning. The men felt greatly encouraged and their hopes rolled. As the hours passed. The cattle were allowed to graze until noon. Then the drive was underway again.

[Paul Larkin]

How do you feel about things now, Rocky? All right.

[Rocky Caldwell]

By golly, you sure don't look like.

[Paul Larkin]

You fell all right. What ails you? Look, boys. Would you just as soon save your wind? Sure, if that's how you feel. You got a stomach ache? No, I'm all right. Well, then, what's got you down, Castle boys. I hate to say it, but I'd feel better if we've been attacked in the devil's past. You what? You local? I know it sounds local, but right at all. We ain't in the clear yet. Why ain't we? There's something coming. I know it. I don't see how. Me neither. That's the trouble. That rustler outfit ain't gonna let this shipman go through like this with nothing happening. Well, they ain't done nothing. Maybe they don't even know about it. They know about it, all right. Make a bid to get the critters. Where? How? I don't know. Hank, you drop back and tell the wind riders keep a sharp watch on both sides. Let me know the first speck of duck is the horizon. Tell all the boys to keep the six guns handy and the rifles ready for shooting. All right. Get up, boy. Rocky. Huh? There's one thing you should know. I'm keeping an eye on it for all the same, they. What's that? There's been a little cloud of dust a long ways back of us. It's been there ever since we left the pass. There has been? Yep. I didn't make no mention of it sooner because it ain't been coming no closer. Does it look like it's from horsemen? Well, if it is, it ain't but a couple of them. I thought it might be Abe Larkin and Nancy riding up to catch us. That's likely what it is if they're just a couple riders. But get back and keep a sharp watch on it. All the same. As soon as them riders get close enough to make out who they are, let me know. Right. Get along there.

[Narrator]

We'll keep as far back as we can, Tono, and still keep the herd in sight.

[Paul Larkin]

All we see is powder dust.

[Narrator]

That's enough. We can hear any gunfire that starts. I suppose we might leave that drive, but somehow I feel that there's something still to come.

[Paul Larkin]

That's how Tonto feels.

[Narrator]

You were right when you said that the Ghost Creek men wouldn't attack in Devil's Pass because that's where the attack was expected. The question is, where will the attack be made? Wait. What is it? Hunter?

[Paul Larkin]

Look behind two rider come this way.

[Narrator]

Off the trail, then let them pass. We'll see if.

[Paul Larkin]

Oh, there.

[Narrator]

Say Blockin riding with his daughter. Still no sign of the rustlers.

[Paul Larkin]

Look ahead there, Nancy. There's the herd still on the move.

[Nancy Larkin]

Those are. Paul, look. Those two men. That bass man. So you're Part of that wrestling gang.

[Paul Larkin]

Getting a drop on us. Why?

[Narrator]

We're not rustling.

[Paul Larkin]

Who are you?

[Narrator]

Rocky saw me at the window of your house. He thought I was one of the Ghost Creek gang, but I'm not. Listen to me.

[Paul Larkin]

What do you want?

[Narrator]

We're hoping to help you. If you have to fight the Ghost Creek gang, Rocky will start shooting at Tahoe and me as soon as he sees us. Tell him, Larkin. Tell him we're on your side.

[Paul Larkin]

I likely won't get the chance to tell him. You don't figure on letting us go, do you?

[Narrator]

Go ahead. I've said all I have to say.

[Nancy Larkin]

How do we know this isn't just part of a trick?

[Narrator]

I can only hope that you'll believe me, Nancy. I doubt if you've heard of me around this part of the country.

[Nancy Larkin]

Heard about you.

[Paul Larkin]

Him? Lone Ranger. What? A Lone Ranger. You? Yes, have I heard about you. Jumping Jehoshaphat. Nancy, you tell Rocky if he lifts a gun at this man, I'll tie and feather him. Ain't you riding with us?

[Narrator]

We're going to stay behind and hope to find out what that gang is planning. But you'd better get going if you hope to overtake that herd before it gets to the station.

[Paul Larkin]

Come on, Nancy.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Get up there. Get up.

[Narrator]

While the Lone Ranger in Tonto rode in sweeping zigzag, scouring the plains for a sign of the rustlers, the cattle arrived in town. The process of loading the cars began. Trail Abe likened to see car after car loaded with his long horns.

[Rocky Caldwell]

There's another one, Phil.

[Paul Larkin]

Boys, good work.

[Narrator]

The safety of the cattle once the train was underway had always been a foregone conclusion.

[Nancy Larkin]

Oh, we're going to make it. We'll make it all right now, won't we?

[Paul Larkin]

Why, Ginger Nancy, I bet we do. Things are shaping up real good, Lin. You sure been a help, Rocky. Ain't seen no sign of that Lone Ranger you made mention of, have you? No, but by darn, I bet if any of the gang dare show up now, he'll be on hand.

[Nancy Larkin]

Wasn't it silly, Rocky, you thinking that.

[Paul Larkin]

He was one of the gang? It throwed all my calculating off, Nancy. Now that he ain't, well, maybe that gang didn't have men in town at all. Maybe they don't have any notion of trying to get the cattle.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Who's that for? Get that tally straight.

[Paul Larkin]

Now, don't make no mistake. We'll be loaded in another half hour, Larkin.

[Narrator]

Good.

[Paul Larkin]

And then I'll start hunting the ranch again. Look, Rocky, why don't you think it over and take a share of my outfit? You wouldn't make that offer if I wasn't hoping to marry Nancy. That's why I won't take it at your price. The price I can pay if I had cash enough to pay what half interest is worth it. It show me different.

[Nancy Larkin]

The engine.

[Rocky Caldwell]

There she comes, boys. There's a choo choo to hitch onto our cattle car. Watch that loading, boys. Keep her moving. Come on now.

[Paul Larkin]

Keep it going.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Watch her. There she goes to make the coupling. Don't let them critters get hurt. Hey, tell that engineer to be careful. He's bumping the critters all over the car. Take care there. Why don't you learn how to run that engine? Maybe that engineer is true.

[Nancy Larkin]

Huh?

[Rocky Caldwell]

What's the matter? Can't he make a cut?

[Narrator]

Yes, I know. It seems that the engineer's having a lot of trouble.

[Paul Larkin]

What matter him?

[Narrator]

I don't know, Kimasabe. Never seen them work like that before. Why doesn't one of the trainmen get out on the platform as they always do?

[Paul Larkin]

Need not know.

[Narrator]

They should have several men flagging the engineer.

[Paul Larkin]

Tadu.

[Narrator]

What matter the answer? The men running that engine don't know their job. They're bungling it. I want to look in that engine cab. The Gallups Creek gang is smarter than we thought. Come on, Taddo.

[Rocky Caldwell]

I'll kill the hulaway. We made the company todo. They're pulling out your own scouts. Stop that plane. Nike locking after it.

[Paul Larkin]

And run. The gun.

[Narrator]

The masked man raced down upon the Willard cowhands and shouted his startling news.

[Rocky Caldwell]

We use handles. Get after that pain before it's down to speed. It's your last turn. Come on.

[Narrator]

Followed by Larkin's crew, he urged Silver past the cattle cars until he was abreast of the engines.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Get away from there. Get back when we start shooting. Yes. We're not done. My hands. Keep them covered. Tanner. Camp. Getting on board that plane. I'll do it. If anyone brings a gun out, shoot it away from them.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger drew his great horse close to the engine. Then, leaning far out of the saddle, grabbed hold and dragged himself on board.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Get him. Draw him off. Not just yet. You're covered. Stop this train or I'll stop it for you. You won't get me. Quick. Stop this train. Don't shoot again. Don't shoot. Close that throttle in. Be fair. Hurry up.

[Paul Larkin]

Now.

[Rocky Caldwell]

Close that throttle. Don't shoot. Don't shoot. You're stopped.

[Narrator]

He's been on the floor of the cab of the real train crew. Keep the Gulf Street Gang covered if.

[Rocky Caldwell]

You haven't the last man done it. I never seen riding like that.

[Paul Larkin]

What a horse that whitening is. So they schemed to steal a whole dog on train.

[Narrator]

I don't think there'll be any more thievery from the Ghost Creek gang by Sunday.

[Paul Larkin]

Mister. We sure owe you plenty. I reckon I gotta apologize for thinking what I did.

[Narrator]

Now, Rocky, by the way, you were in charge of this drive. That means that you'll get the rewards for the capture of the gang.

[Paul Larkin]

Rewards?

[Narrator]

But you.

[Paul Larkin]

You're the one who's deserve them.

[Narrator]

I won't be around to collect them. D. Silver. That's the boy. Silver. But.

[Paul Larkin]

But why won't you?

[Narrator]

Well, you see, I don't need the cash to buy a half interest in the ranch.

[Paul Larkin]

You hear, Rocky? You'll have the cash. You'll buy my ranch. Half of your ranch, Lin and oh.

[Rocky Caldwell]

And then by ginger, we'll have a wedding.

[Paul Larkin]

I.

[Indeed Advertiser]

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[Nancy Larkin]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[Nancy Larkin]

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 OTR western.com YouTube become one 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 podcast trwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-98-68739 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.

[Indeed Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com kidsandfamily just go to Indeed.com kidsandfamily right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.