In His Father’s Footsteps | The Lone Ranger (01-23-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: "In His Father’s Footsteps" | The Lone Ranger (01-23-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: September 11, 2025 (Podcast Release)
Show Date: January 23, 1952

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored performance of "In His Father’s Footsteps" from The Lone Ranger. The story follows Ted Carver, son of the recently wounded Sheriff Carver, who returns to Greystone to take up his father’s badge and face infamous outlaw Mike Pickens. Themes of courage, legacy, and the power of collective action are front and center as Ted, with the secret aid of the Lone Ranger and Tonto, galvanizes a fearful town into confronting its deepest threat.

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Key Discussion Points and Episode Highlights

1. The Town Under Siege: Mike Pickens' Domination

• Setting the Stage (05:04–06:42):
  The episode opens in Greystone’s cafe, interrupted by the notorious outlaw Mike Pickens, who confronts Sheriff Carver and challenges him to a deadly duel.
  • Mike Pickens (05:53): “Well, I don’t like him. And I don’t like you, Carver. So I decided to come and do something about it.”
  • Sheriff Carver is left seriously wounded; the town is fearful, recalling that two previous sheriffs were killed by Pickens and his men.

2. The Reluctance of Leadership & the Arrival of Ted Carver

• Vacuum of Authority (07:07–08:27):
  The town leaders are demoralized and afraid to face Pickens (“Not me, John. Count me out. I’m not signing my death warrant yet.” – [Ted Carver] 07:26), illustrating the grip of fear over the town.
• Ted Carver Steps Up (08:06–10:56):
  Ted, Sheriff Carver’s son, telegrams that he’s coming to take his father’s place—giving hope to some, doubts to others:
  • Telegram (08:06): “Leaving for Greystone at once by railroad. If sheriff’s job is by appointment, please consider me…to get the man who tried to kill him.”
  • Townsfolk are skeptical, noting, “It’d be like sending a tenderfoot against Pickens” ([John Stanley] 08:55).

3. Courage Amid Doubt: Ted’s Resolve

• Ted Refuses to Back Down (10:15–10:56):
  Ted insists on taking the sheriff’s post for the sake of family and justice.
  • Ted Carver (10:15): “I came out here with just one purpose in mind. To get the man who shot dad.”
  • Despite warnings, Ted’s sense of duty prevails: “Then give me the job. And let me try. Dad would expect me to fill his shoes after what happened.”

4. The Lone Ranger & Tonto Enter the Fray

• Strategic Support (11:23–12:13):
  Tonto and the Lone Ranger decide to keep an eye on things. The Lone Ranger recognizes Ted’s pride, predicting he won’t back down.
  • Lone Ranger (11:58): “Not if he’s anything like his father…Once his son Ted has taken that badge as sheriff, he’ll not want to appear yellow by turning it in.”

5. The Outlaw’s Challenge

• Pickens’ Taunt (13:24–16:12):
  Rather than gunning Ted down immediately, Pickens sends a threatening note: turn in the badge or be killed.
  • The Note (16:12): “To the new sheriff. Turn in your badge and get out of town by noon tomorrow. If you don’t, we’ll find a way to gun you down before sunset, in spite of any precautions you might take. — Mike Pickens.”

6. A Moment of Decision — and the Spark of Leadership

• Ted’s Dilemma (19:26–20:09):
  Alone in his office, Ted contemplates the impossible decision—leave or fight. The disguised Lone Ranger encourages Ted to keep the badge and helps him see a possible path to victory.

  • The Lone Ranger (19:44): “Pickens, I admire your courage.”
  • Ted Carver (20:09): “Doesn’t look like anyone can help me. ... I’ll try to face whatever comes tomorrow afternoon.”

• Forming the Posse (21:07–23:41):
  The Lone Ranger persuades townsfolk, shaming them out of their fear and into action.

  • Lone Ranger (22:38): “But Ted has courage. Something that seems to be lacking in this town.”
  • Banker Stanley is the first to join, breaking the deadlock: “I’ll go along with him.” ([John Stanley] 23:06)
  • Ultimately, a posse gathers—the tide is beginning to turn.

7. Showdown at the Hideout

• Approaching the Hideout (24:00–25:05):
  With Tonto’s tracking skills, the posse reaches Pickens’s secluded camp.

  • Tonto scouts ahead and confirms Pickens’s location.

• Ted’s Stand: The Duel With Pickens (26:26–26:51):
  Ted confronts Pickens in his cabin:

  • Ted Carver (26:26): “Reach, Pickens. I came here to get you.”
  • Ted is faster on the draw, wounding Pickens and bringing him to justice.

• Victory and the Power of Courage (27:16–28:37):
  The posse rounds up the rest of the gang. Townsfolk marvel at Ted’s bravery—only for Ted to attempt to reveal the truth about who really saved the day.

  • John Stanley (27:33): “Thunder, Ted’s no tenderfoot after all.”
  • The Lone Ranger gently advises Ted to let the legend stand, encouraging the myth of courage in service to the greater good.
  • Lone Ranger (28:15): “It’s enough for them to know that they have a sheriff who has courage. … You’ll make a better sheriff if they all think you fired the shot that stopped Pickens.”

8. The Masked Man Revealed

• Ted’s Realization (29:40–31:17):
  As Ted wonders about the identity of his mysterious helper, the townsfolk piece together that the “cowpoke” who aided them is the legendary Lone Ranger, thanks to Silvers’ mention and Tonto’s presence.
  • Ted Carver (29:47): “After what he did for me, I should have known he must be the Lone Ranger.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "I came out here with just one purpose in mind. To get the man who shot dad."
  — Ted Carver’s unwavering resolve (10:15)

• "The trouble is, Mike Pickens and his gunmen have all of us buffaloed in this town."
  — Bitterness of the townsfolk’s fear (14:58)

• "But Ted has courage. Something that seems to be lacking in this town."
  — The Lone Ranger’s challenge that rallies the townsmen (22:38)

• "Thunder, Ted’s no tenderfoot after all."
  — Realization of Ted’s growth (27:33)

• "Ted, your father will be mighty proud of this. Mighty proud."
  — Community’s recognition of Ted’s courage (27:37)

• “After what he did for me, I should have known he must be the Lone Ranger.”
  — Ted’s recognition of his mysterious benefactor (29:47)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Mike Pickens confronts Sheriff Carver: 05:31–06:42
• Ted Carver’s arrival and decision: 08:06–10:56
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto decide to intervene: 11:23–12:13
• Pickens’ threat (note to Ted): 16:12
• Lone Ranger persuades the town to form a posse: 21:42–23:41
• Showdown at Pickens’ hideout: 26:26–26:51
• Ted’s true helper revealed: 29:40–31:17

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Tone and Style

The episode is steeped in classic Western drama—gritty, resolute, full of frontier honor and threat. Dialogue is earnest, and the Lone Ranger’s tone is inspirational, leading to a sense of hope and solidarity. The restoration work makes the performances and sound design vivid, immersing listeners in both the danger and the thrill of the Old West.

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Summary

"In His Father’s Footsteps" is a classic tale of inherited courage and the strength that comes from standing together. The episode blends action, suspense, and a powerful message about overcoming fear by uniting behind a leader with courage and integrity. Ted Carver’s journey from doubt to heroism—guided secretly by the Lone Ranger—reminds listeners of the value of leadership, bravery, and order in a world threatened by lawlessness.

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Transcript

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[Andrew Ryans]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Ryans 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.

[Ted Carver]

Sam.

[Tonto]

It'S.

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[Narrator]

With this faithful Indian companion Turtle, 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.

[John Stanley]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Narrator]

The crowd in the cafe at Greystone was, as usual, noisy and boisterous. That is, they were, until the door opened and the big, tough looking man entered.

[Ted Carver]

Hey, look, it's Mike Pickens. Heyday.

[Tonto]

Here comes Trouble.

[Ted Carver]

Hey, look.

[The Lone Ranger]

His gunmen are at the windows.

[Narrator]

Mike Pickens walked slowly, his arms hanging at his sides. His piercing eyes surveying the crowd as they waited in hushed expectancy. Then he stopped walking and spoke.

[Mike Pickens]

My men are covering all of you from the open windows. I came here to find Sheriff Carver. Is he here?

[Ted Carver]

Yes, I'm here, Pickens.

[Mike Pickens]

I saw those reward posters you've plastered all over with your name signed to them saying I'm wanted dead or alive.

[John Stanley]

I have them all over the county.

[Mike Pickens]

Yeah, so I noticed. Well, I don't like him. And I don't like you, Carver. So I decided to come and do something about it.

[Ted Carver]

You did, huh?

[Mike Pickens]

Yeah. So now you have your chance to take me, or I'm counting three. And we draw and shoot. You understand? My men will see that no one interferes.

[Ted Carver]

Hold on, Pickens.

[Mike Pickens]

1.

[Tonto]

Take cover me in this little shooting.

[Mike Pickens]

2.

[Ted Carver]

You're noted for your quick draw and straight shooting.

[Mike Pickens]

Get ready, Carver.

[Ted Carver]

You're a killer, Pickens.

[Mike Pickens]

Do like lightning.

[Ted Carver]

The sheriff didn't have a chance.

[Narrator]

Let's get after those gunslingers. Mike Pickens bullet had not killed Sheriff Carver, but he had been seriously wounded and would not be able to carry on his duties for a long time. A few days after the shooting, the leading businessmen of Greystone met at the general store. John Stanley, the banker, was talking to them men.

[John Stanley]

You all know what happened to Sheriff Carver. And you all know that two sheriffs before Carver were killed by Mike Pickens and his men. The sheriff will be laid up for some time. We need somebody to take over the job and try to run down those killers. Well, who's willing to do it?

[Ted Carver]

Not me, John. Count me out. I'm not signing my death warrant yet.

[Tonto]

Nobody in town's able to stuff Pickens in his men.

[Mike Pickens]

That's right.

[John Stanley]

Well, that's just where we stand. Nobody will consider being appointed in Carver's place. The Greystone is left without a lawman. Things are liable to get out of hand without someone to keep law and order hereabouts. Here comes the telegraph operator with a message for somebody. What do you have there, Joe?

[The Lone Ranger]

Here's a reply to the telegram you sent to St. Louis, Mr. Stanley, from Sheriff Carver's son, Ted.

[John Stanley]

Oh, give it here, Joe.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here you are.

[Mike Pickens]

Is Ted coming here to be with his father?

[Tonto]

What's he say about the shooting?

[John Stanley]

Now, hold on. Hold on, everybody. I'll read you what Ted says in this telegram. Now, listen, I'm shocked to hear of Dad's condition. Leaving for Greystone at once by railroad. If Sheriff's job is by appointment. Please consider me to take Dad's place long enough to get the man who tried to kill him. Sign Ted Carver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe Pickens will get him, too.

[Tonto]

I say give Ted a chance at it.

[John Stanley]

Just a minute now. A good many of you don't even remember Ted Carver. He went to St. Louis five years ago. He was 20 years old then. A darn nice young fellow, too. He could handle guns about as well as his dad. But that's not good enough to buck up against Mike Pickens.

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe he'd be luckier than his father was, Mr. Stanley. Of course, he may be scared off when he hears what he's up against.

[John Stanley]

Well, we'll tell him the facts when he gets here. It'd be like sending a tenderfoot against Pickens to let Ted take over the job.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, maybe so, but Ted'll be sore enough of Pickens to go after him, which is more than anyone else would.

[Narrator]

Have the nerve to do.

[John Stanley]

Well, when Ted gets here, we'll talk it over. As far as I'm concerned, I don't think he should be appointed to the job. If he were, I figure he'd end up with a bullet in him just like his father did.

[Narrator]

When Ted Carver finally arrived in Greystone, a committee of townsmen met him at the station.

[John Stanley]

Well, man, there's the train from St. Louis. Ted ought to be getting off in a minute.

[Tonto]

Yeah, he's liable to want to get back on again when we tell him about Pickings.

[John Stanley]

He's not being appointed sheriff, though there's no reason he should feel that way. Well, there he is now. Come on. Oh, Ted. Ted Carver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Wow.

[Ted Carver]

Banker Stanley. Glad to see you here. How's dad?

[John Stanley]

Well, he's in a wheelchair, Ted, but it'll be a long time before he gets around again.

[Ted Carver]

I'd like to get my hands on the man who shot dad. Did you get my telegram?

[John Stanley]

Yes, Ted. But you see, the outlaw Mike Pickens, who shot your dad, is a mighty tough hombre and plenty quick on the draw. It'd be useless for a young fellow like you to try to get him.

[Ted Carver]

Mr. Stanley, I came out here with just one purpose in mind. To get the man who shot dad. It isn't right for you not to.

[Tonto]

Give me the chance.

[John Stanley]

Dad, it'd be suicide for you to take over as sheriff.

[Tonto]

They sure the minute Pickens heard about it, he'd bring his gang and come gun him for you, too.

[Ted Carver]

You have somebody else in mind to take Dad's place?

[John Stanley]

No, not yet.

[Ted Carver]

Then give me the job. And let me try. Dad would expect me to fill his shoes after what happened. Point me to the job before I see dad so I'll be able to tell him about it.

[Tonto]

Well, you still don't realize what you'd be up against.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dad.

[Tonto]

Nobody else is willing to take over the job.

[Ted Carver]

Then why not let me take it? After all, I'm the one who's taking the risk. What do you say, Mr. Stanley?

[John Stanley]

Ted, I hate to do it, but if that's the way you want it, I reckon we might as well give you the chance. Let's go see your father. We'll swear you in and give you his badge to wear. Let's go.

[Narrator]

That afternoon, Toto, Indian companion to the Lone Ranger, returned to their camp in the nearby hills.

[Ted Carver]

Horse come. Oh, fella, he's his come easy.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's going on in town, Toto?

[Ted Carver]

Well, Ted Carver, son of wounded sheriff, come and train him. Talk to men at station. Say him want to be sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ted's been east for some time. He'd be a tenderfoot as a sheriff out here now.

[Ted Carver]

Ah, but him want to get Mike Pickens, the outlaw who shoots sheriff. Men say they make him sheriff. Maybe him gets shot by outlaw who wound his father.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's a job he may not be able to handle.

[Ted Carver]

But maybe when him learn more about Pickens, young feller give up job.

[The Lone Ranger]

Not if he's anything like his father. Toto Carver's a very proud man. I feel sure once his son Ted has taken that badge as sheriff, you'll not want to appear yellow by turning it in.

[Ted Carver]

I mean not thinking have chance against Mike Pickens.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know. Tado. I'll disguise myself as a cowpoke and we both go to town and keep our eyes open in case Mike Pickens and his men show up.

[Narrator]

That same afternoon, one of my arrived at his cabin in the hideout camp.

[Mike Pickens]

Ho, ho, there. Ho, ho.

[John Stanley]

Steady.

[Mike Pickens]

Well, what brings you back from town so soon, Bert? I have news, Mike. Wait till you hear this. Well, I'm waiting. A young hombre came in on a train this morning. His name is Ted Carver. Ted Carver? Yeah, he's the son of the sheriff you gunned in the cafe. But the payoff is this. He's been appointed to be sheriff in his father's place since the old man isn't able to get around. Appointed to take his father's place, huh? Yeah, I hear he's sort of a tenderfoot with a gun. Been working in St. Louis for several years. The fact is, he telegraphed and asked to Be appointed so's he could round up the hombre who shot his father. Meaning you. That's a good one. Reckon he wants to get a bullet just like his father did. When are you going gunning for him? I don't know yet, Bert. Did they tell him about me before they made him sheriff? Yeah. Yeah, I overheard him talking to some men who met the train when he arrived. They tried to keep him from taking a job. Told him it'd be suicide to try to get you, but he still wanted the chance. It will be suicide if he tries to get me, just like they told him. I suppose you figure on gunning him before he even tries to find you, huh, Mike? Well, not exactly, Bert. Seeing as how he's young and more or less of a tenderfoot, I'll give him a chance to stay alive. What do you mean by that? Tonight, I'll print a note and tie it to a stone. Then we'll take the gang and gallop through town. And as we pass the cafe, I'll toss it through the window. I want everybody to know what's in that note. What are you gonna write? I'll let you read it. After I get it printed, I go tell the men to get ready for a ride to town. After supper.

[Narrator]

That evening, the cafe was crowded as usual. The Lone Ranger, who was disguised as a cowpoke, stood at the back with Tonto, listening intently to the conversation.

[Tonto]

Well, in spite of all he's heard about Mike Pickens, it looks like Ted Carver's gonna keep his father's badge.

[Ted Carver]

Ted's not too quick on the draw, but he's too proud to let anything scare him off.

[Tonto]

Well, I for one, wouldn't think he's yellow if he decided to change his mind about being here.

[The Lone Ranger]

The trouble is, Mike Pickens and his.

[Mike Pickens]

Gunmen have all of us buffaloed in this town.

[Tonto]

That's what they do.

[Mike Pickens]

Mike and his gang just about run things around here.

[Ted Carver]

Reckon we'll just have to admit he.

[Mike Pickens]

Has us all licked for my part.

[Ted Carver]

Hey, something happening outside.

[Tonto]

Must be Pickens in his gang again, eh?

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe he's come to get the new show sheriff.

[John Stanley]

Hey, something came through the front window. It's a stone with something tied to it.

[Tonto]

I see.

[John Stanley]

What is it?

[Ted Carver]

Hold it.

[Tonto]

Note with writing on the outside.

[John Stanley]

What?

[Tonto]

It says for the new sheriff.

[John Stanley]

What does the note say?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah, yeah, read it out loud.

[Tonto]

No, no. Let's take it to the sheriff's office and let Ted Carver read for himself, eh? The notes were here. Come on, M.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let's go along. With him. Toto, I'd like to know what's in that note.

[Narrator]

A few moments later, Ted Carver, seated at his father's desk in the sheriff's office, looked up as the crowd entered.

[Tonto]

Hey, Sheriff, this note was thrown through the wind of the cafe just now. It's for you. Here, go through it. By the men who just galloped through town.

[Ted Carver]

I heard them and looked out. Thought they were just some cowpokes hooping it up here.

[The Lone Ranger]

More likely the Pickens gang. Better untie them, though, and read it out loud.

[Ted Carver]

All right. To the new sheriff. Turn in your badge and get out of town by noon tomorrow. If you don't, we'll find a way to gun you down before sunset, in spite of any precautions you might take. Mike Pickens.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Ted, what are you aiming to do about that?

[Tonto]

Well, reckon the only thing for you to do, Ted, is to turn in your badge and leave. You're kind of rusty with a gun, and Pickens and his men will find a way to get at you if you don't do as he says.

[Ted Carver]

Better do as he I'll not decide now. I want to think it over. I'll tell you in half an hour what I'm going to do.

[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.

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[Ted Carver]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. After Ted Carver had read Mike Pickens note and said he wanted to think it over, the crowd left his office as the young sheriff sat with his head in his hands, staring at the top of his desk. Ted didn't notice that two men had remained, and he was startled when the Lone Ranger, still disguised as a cowboy, spoke to him.

[The Lone Ranger]

The men in town would understand if you decided to Turn in your badge, Sheriff.

[Ted Carver]

What? I thought everyone had gone.

[The Lone Ranger]

My Indian friend and I wanted to talk to you, so we stayed. You've learned Mike Pickens reputation, of course.

[Ted Carver]

Yes, I have. I took my father's badge. In spite of what I heard about.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pickens, I admire your courage.

[Ted Carver]

Thanks, mister. Reckon I need courage now.

[The Lone Ranger]

Does that mean you're thinking of keeping the badge and facing the consequences?

[Ted Carver]

I feel I have no other choice. I'd be yellow if I gave up and left town now.

[The Lone Ranger]

No one else would think so.

[Ted Carver]

My dad wouldn't back down if he weren't my place.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm sure he wouldn't, Ted.

[Ted Carver]

Say, who are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

Believe me when I tell you I'm a good friend of your father's. I'd like to help you.

[Ted Carver]

Doesn't look like anyone can help me. I know the cards are stacked against me, but I can't bring myself to give in to Mike Pickens and his gang. I'll try to face whatever comes tomorrow afternoon.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why wait until tomorrow?

[Ted Carver]

What do you mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

I think we could shame some of the townsmen into forming a posse tonight.

[Ted Carver]

Posse?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I'm sure Tonto, my Indian friend here, could follow the trail left by Mike Pickens and his men.

[Ted Carver]

Ah, plenty bright. But what good would trailing them do? From what I've heard of Pickens and his gunmen, a posse would most likely be gunned down.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mike Pickens has everyone in Greystone buffaloed because he can draw fast and shoot straight.

[Ted Carver]

I know, but the rest of his.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gang are no better shots than many of the men in town. If we could take Pickens and his men by surprise at their hideout, I think we'd have a chance of capturing them. Mike Pickens is so sure he has everybody afraid of him that I doubt if he'd have guards posted at their hideout. Well, what do you say, Ted? Shall we try it?

[Ted Carver]

I'd hope to be the one to actually face Mike Pickens and beat him to the draw. But after all I've heard.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll discuss that part of it later. Ted, why not come along with us now and talk some Townsend into forming the posse? What do you say?

[Ted Carver]

All right, Mister, I don't know why I give into your plan like this, but the way you talk sort of gives me confidence. Let's go.

[Narrator]

Later. Ted, with a lone ranger and his cowboy disguise, stood before the men at the cafe. Ted was talking.

[Ted Carver]

Men, this armory has the idea we could trail Pickens gang to their hideout and capture them. I'll try it. If I get enough men to Form a posse. The last posse lost more than half its men.

[Mike Pickens]

I don't hanker for one of Mike's bullets.

[The Lone Ranger]

Just a minute, man. Mike Pickens has terrorized this town and the vicinity for some time. No one in business, no rancher with cattle to raise is safe as long as those gunmen are at liberty.

[Mike Pickens]

Pickens boasts of the fact that he.

[The Lone Ranger]

Has you all shivering in your boots. He's already killed two sheriffs here and lately wounded another. Now he's threatened the sheriff's son, Ted Carver, if Ted doesn't turn in his badge and leave town. In other words, Mike Pickens is telling all of you he's running Greystone from now on. If Ted gives up and leaves, this town will be at Pickens mercy. Nothing else for Ted to do if he wants to live.

[Tonto]

Yeah, he ought to do as Headnote says.

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps that's what most of you would do. But Ted has courage. Something that seems to be lacking in this town. Ted has decided not to turn in his badge. Instead, Ted Carver's willing to try to get those gum in the night if you men have nerve enough to follow him. I'm beginning to think none of you have. You intend to go along, mister?

[Mike Pickens]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

My Indian friend will follow the gang's trail to its hideout.

[John Stanley]

I'm banker here in Greystone, and that gang has robbed my bank twice. I thunder if Ted and this Homie right here have the nerve to try to run down Mike Pickens and his men. I'll go along with him.

[Tonto]

Good for you, John. I'll join ye.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, there are two who are willing. The rest of you cowards.

[Ted Carver]

That's strong talk, mister.

[Mike Pickens]

That's right, it is.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, why not prove I'm wrong by joining the posse?

[Mike Pickens]

All right, I'll go along.

[Ted Carver]

Yeah, count me.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's your posse, Ted.

[Ted Carver]

Good men, get your horses and meet me in front of the Sheriff's office in 10 minutes.

[Narrator]

Inside of 10 minutes. A large group of men met in front of the sheriff's office. Toto and the lonely rangers, still disguised, were ready to ride with them.

[Ted Carver]

All right, men. We hope to take those gunmen by surprise. We'll talk over our planes as we ride along. Get up there.

[Narrator]

Mike Pickens and his men hadn't bothered to try to cover their trail. And it was fairly easy for Tono to follow it with a posse. Finally, the trail led over a ridge into a secluded hollow. On top of the ridge, the Lone Ranger. Secluded just to a hall.

[Mike Pickens]

Supposing.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Ted, we found the hideout put down there.

[Ted Carver]

I reckon you're right, mister. Far as I can make out in this moonlight, there's a couple of cabins down there.

[John Stanley]

What do we do now? They hear us riding down there.

[Ted Carver]

What do you suggest, mister?

[The Lone Ranger]

First, let Tano go down on foot to scout around. When he tells us what he's found out, we'll plan our approach.

[Ted Carver]

Good idea.

[Mike Pickens]

Yes.

[Ted Carver]

We come back soon.

[Narrator]

The posse waited while Toto left and moved cautiously through the trees and underbrush into the hollow. Before long, he came back to report to the waiting men.

[Ted Carver]

He find out plenty.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tell us, Toto.

[Ted Carver]

Only two men in big cabin. Me listen. Hear one fella called. Other one Mike. Must be Pickens himself.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. Now, I suggest that you go with me. Ted, they go to Pickens cabin. The rest of you follow Tahoe.

[Mike Pickens]

All right.

[The Lone Ranger]

He'll show you how to approach the other cabin without attracting attention.

[Narrator]

In his headquarters cabin at the hideout camp, Mike Pickens was alone with his right hand man, Bert. The rest were in the other cabin nearby. Mike was talking to Burt.

[Mike Pickens]

I bet that note we tossed through the cafe window scared the daylights out of everybody in town, Bert. Yeah, I figured it scared that young sheriff a lot more. I wouldn't be surprised to hear he packed up and left Greystone right away. We'll find out in the morning. And if he hasn't given up his badge and left by noon tomorrow, they'll see another sheriff drop with his boots on. I gotta hand it to you, Mike. You got that town and all the people in it right in the palm of your hand. Yeah, we got most of the hombres. They're so scared, they look the other way when we ride into town. It sure pays to be the quickest on the draw and the straightest shot in the county. Mike, someday soon we'll move in and take over Grace Stonebert. I'll set myself up as mayor and.

[John Stanley]

Let you be sheriff.

[Mike Pickens]

And we'll live respectable. Yeah, it's a good one.

[John Stanley]

Hey, Mike.

[Mike Pickens]

Hey, what the.

[Ted Carver]

Hey.

[John Stanley]

Look, Mike.

[Narrator]

Mike Pickens stared at the open door. Faintly outlined outside the door was the figure of Ted Carver. Neither Mike nor Bert could see beyond him where another tall figure stood.

[Ted Carver]

Rach Pickens. I came here to get you.

[Mike Pickens]

It's Ted Carver, the young sheriff. Yeah, so it is. All you'll get is this.

[John Stanley]

Carver.

[Ted Carver]

Oh, my wrist.

[Mike Pickens]

Holy cow. I can't believe it.

[Ted Carver]

Drop your gun, mister, or you'll get some of the same.

[Mike Pickens]

Yeah, yeah, sure, I guess I better.

[Ted Carver]

Let's go in. That was a lucky shot, that's all.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're lucky it stuck. Only your wrist, Pickens.

[Mike Pickens]

We should have had guards posted. They won't get out of here. The gang will be here after hearing that shot. Yeah, and both of these hombres will get plenty of lead.

[Ted Carver]

Hey, what's that? My posse. They surrounded the camp and are cleaning up that gang of yours.

[John Stanley]

Mike.

[Mike Pickens]

I didn't think those hombres in town had the nerve.

[The Lone Ranger]

They found their nerve when they discovered they had a courageous leader.

[Ted Carver]

The posse rounded them all up.

[John Stanley]

I see you got Mike Picking good going.

[Ted Carver]

Yeah, if we never thought it could be done.

[Tonto]

A couple of them tried to rat away, but we got him.

[Mike Pickens]

Man alive. I'll sure have news to send over.

[The Lone Ranger]

That telegraph when I go back.

[John Stanley]

I don't savvy how this happened.

[Mike Pickens]

I drew quick as lightning, but somehow that young sheriff was faster.

[John Stanley]

Thunder. Ted's no tenderfoot after all.

[Mike Pickens]

That's right. Can't say he's a tenderfoot sheriff like we've been called.

[John Stanley]

Ted, your father will be mighty proud of this. Mighty proud.

[Tonto]

He sure will. You think you did something nobody else has been able to do. Outgun picking.

[Mike Pickens]

That's right.

[Ted Carver]

Ted's a wonder. He's been holding out on us. Just a minute, everybody. I guess there's something you ought to know about all this.

[The Lone Ranger]

They already know you've captured Pickens, Ted. There's no reason to say any more about it.

[Ted Carver]

I know, but I said.

[The Lone Ranger]

I suggest the men see the Pickens wound while I speak to you a moment outside.

[Ted Carver]

All right. I'll be right back. Men. See that Pickens and any others who were wounded are taken care of.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ted, I know what you were going to tell the men. But it's enough for them to know that they have a sheriff who has courage. And that because of his courage, the Mike Pickens gang is captured. You'll make a better sheriff if they all think you fired the shot that stopped Pickens. So forget what you started to tell them.

[Ted Carver]

Thanks, mister. I couldn't have drawn that fast. I want you to know how much I appreciate what you've done.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, thanks. Well, I see Tono's waiting. Now that Pickens is in custody, we'll be on our way out of the old Sheriff Carver. And good luck.

[Ted Carver]

Goodbye. Gosh. Well, reckon I better go back inside.

[Mike Pickens]

Doggone. There's something familiar about that hombre who went outside with Carver. But I can't place him.

[John Stanley]

Bert.

[Mike Pickens]

Hey, I feel that way about him, too.

[Ted Carver]

Well, you'll have enough time while you're.

[John Stanley]

Waiting in jail for your trial to think about where you met him with.

[Ted Carver]

Shall we take them away now, Sheriff? Yes, take them out of here.

[Mike Pickens]

All right, Pickens. On your way, you two. Come on.

[John Stanley]

All right, take it easy. Well, Ted, there go your friends. The cowboy and the Indian. I sure admired the way he talked up to the men at the cafe this evening. Sure put the spunk right back into him.

[Tonto]

Yep, and the way Ted acted helped a lot, too. We're sure proud of you, Ted.

[Ted Carver]

Thanks. I wish I could always prove myself to you as I seem to do tonight.

[The Lone Ranger]

You will.

[John Stanley]

Don't worry.

[Ted Carver]

There's one thing I'd like to know very much.

[Tonto]

Oh?

[John Stanley]

What's that?

[Ted Carver]

Well, I haven't any idea who that cowboy is. Who? Who backed me up when I came here after Pickens.

[Mike Pickens]

Oh, I can tell you that, Sheriff.

[Ted Carver]

You can? Who is he? Well, by putting two and two together, I figured it out. I've seen that engine before.

[John Stanley]

Riding with a mask man near Pecos.

[Ted Carver]

With a mask man? Yeah, yeah. I'm sure that tall, well built hombre posing as a cowpoke is in disguise. And I feel certain he usually wears a mask. I noticed he called his horse Silver, too. And the Injun's name is Tono. Holy smoke. Dad told me about an hombre like that once. After what he did for me, I should have known he must be the Lone Ranger. It.

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[Tonto]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[The Lone Ranger]

Played by Brace Beamed Foreign.

[Andrew Ryans]

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 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.

[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 at indeed.comkidsandfamily just go to indeed.comkidsandfamily 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.