Invisible Trigger Fingers | The Lone Ranger (01-08-41)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: Invisible Trigger Fingers | The Lone Ranger (01-08-41)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: November 9, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode transports listeners back to the golden era of radio dramas, spotlighting a classic Lone Ranger adventure titled Invisible Trigger Fingers. The story centers on a mysterious murder, a frame-up scheme, and the Lone Ranger’s quest to uncover the truth behind a wrongful accusation. With digitally restored audio, listeners experience all the action, suspense, and wit as lawman “Old Missouri” is accused of murder, Mustang Mag demands justice, and the real outlaws aim to get away with more than just a ranch.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. A Shady Mortgage and Mustang Mag’s Dilemma

[04:56–11:02]

• The episode sets the scene with Mustang Mag receiving a legal notice claiming she owes $2,000 to Jack Irwin, far beyond the $200 she believes she borrowed.
• Sheriff Missouri delivers the notice, sparking a verbal spat with Mag about debts and trust.
• Quotes:
  • Mustang Mag: "Why in Tunker should I pay John Irwin any $2,000?" (07:43)
  • Mustang Mag: "I don't owe Irwin any money like that. I said I don't. Now, do you want to argue it?" (08:49)

2. The Lone Ranger & Tonto Enter the Fray

[09:34–12:18]

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive at Mag's ranch, offering help.
• The Ranger suspects collusion between Irwin and known crooks, based on overheard conversations the night before.
• Mustang Mag admits borrowing $200 from Irwin, not $2,000, increasing suspicions of a scam.

3. Discovery of the Murder & Missouri Framed

[12:18–15:14]

• Missouri goes to confront Irwin, only to find him dead.

• Brady and Jesse, Irwin’s cook, arrive and immediately accuse Missouri of murder.

• Mustang Mag: "He's killed Mr. Irwin. He's got a hang for it." (13:29)

• The Lone Ranger urges Missouri to run to avoid immediate lynching:

  • The Lone Ranger: "They'll think so anyway and hang you before there's a chance to find the real killer. Now get out of here." (14:28)

4. Missouri’s Decision & Surrender

[17:10–18:19]

• Missouri, believing justice will win out, decides to surrender rather than run.
• Mustang Mag is incredulous at his decision, worried about a wrongful conviction.
• Quotes:
  • Mustang Mag: "You gone addlebrain now. Won't stand by and see act loco." (17:47)
  • Missouri: "Boys, it ain't never to be said that Missouri didn't uphold the law." (17:38)

5. The Lone Ranger’s Investigation

[18:43–20:09]

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto track down the real culprits—Sid Newman and Bat Kester—at a cave, confirming their involvement in a larger criminal plot.

6. Twists, Inheritance, and a “Dead” Man Returns

[20:09–25:59]

• In town, the two criminals present a supposed will, claiming to be Irwin’s heirs.
• The Lone Ranger deduces the “murder victim” is not Irwin after all.
  • The Lone Ranger: "Jack Irwin is not dead." (23:27)
• Irwin appears alive, revealing the scheme: crooks captured him, had him alter his appearance, and then killed their own leader to frame Missouri.
• Irwin's prediction: "Knowing Mustang Mag as I do, I made the mortgage $2,000 instead of $200. I reasoned... there would surely be an investigation." (25:15)

7. Resolution and Mustang Mag’s Fury

[25:59–26:45]

• Mustang Mag storms into the sheriff’s office, demanding Missouri’s release:
  • Mustang Mag: "You either let Missouri elf pronto or you give me the keys to do so." (26:15)
• The real Irwin confirms his identity, Missouri is freed, and justice is restored.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Mustang Mag’s indignation:
  “Why in Tunker should I pay John Irwin any $2,000?” (07:43)

• The Lone Ranger’s calm command:
  “They’ll think so anyway and hang you before there’s a chance to find the real killer. Now get out of here.” (14:28)

• Missouri’s sense of duty:
  “Boys, it ain't never to be said that Missouri didn't uphold the law.” (17:38)

• The Lone Ranger’s pivotal reveal:
  “Jack Irwin is not dead.” (23:27)

• Irwin’s trust in Mustang Mag’s outspokenness to uncover the truth:
  “Knowing Mustang Mag as I do, I made the mortgage $2,000 instead of $200. I reasoned... there would surely be an investigation.” (25:15)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Mortgage Dispute & Conspiracy Revealed: 04:56–11:02
• The Lone Ranger Arrives: 09:34–12:18
• Murder Scene & Missouri’s Framing: 12:18–15:14
• Missouri’s Surrender: 17:10–18:19
• Pursuit of Real Crooks: 18:43–20:09
• Inheritance Plot & Truth Unveiled: 20:09–25:59
• Mustang Mag Demands Justice: 25:59–26:45

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Tone and Style

Throughout, the dialogue brims with wit, frontier spunk, and classic Western justice. Mustang Mag’s fiery indignation, Missouri’s homespun honesty, and the Lone Ranger’s calm, deductive reasoning typify the period's larger-than-life radio characters.

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Final Thoughts

Invisible Trigger Fingers blends intrigue, humor, and swift justice in a quintessential Lone Ranger tale. The episode exemplifies the era's best: clever plotting, memorable personalities, and a surefire belief in truth prevailing—thanks to the unflagging courage of heroes like the Masked Rider and his friends.

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(Ads and non-content portions omitted. For more OTR classics, visit otrwesterns.com.)

Transcript

[Sarah]

Hey, this is Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling, even kind of cheesy. But I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell Oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[Narrator]

Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit.

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Made with ktree eggs, smoked bacon and.

[Narrator]

Melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. AM PM Too much. Good stuff.

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[Andrew Rines]

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 (Lone Ranger Intro)]

A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty Hio, Silver. The Lone ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sam.

[Sarah]

Hey, Mrs. Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling. Even kind of cheesy. But I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell, oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[Narrator]

Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit.

[Dutch Vet Ad Narrator]

Made with K tree eggs, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit.

[Narrator]

AM PM Too much Good stuff.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Whenever men gathered around the campfire in the early days of the western United States, stories were told of the Masked Rider of the planes. His strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, his devotion to the cause of right against might. All these made him the greatest champion of justice the west ever knew. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Narrator]

Hello, I'm Silver. We're heading west to Pecos there's going to be trouble. I O Silver.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

The Lone Ranger Encanto camped in an arroyo, stood beside their horses, watchful and waiting. At the sound of approaching, hoof beats reached their ears.

[The Lone Ranger]

The horses remain quiet. They may not be seen. It's pretty dark now. Who comes? May? I don't know. Who could have business in this part of the country? Get close now. Steady, Sipper.

[Narrator]

Quiet, old boy. Remember this bet. Any time where one wants, he can.

[The Lone Ranger]

Turn us over to the law. Better take what he wants to give and keep still.

[Mustang Mag]

It's bonchourage, but it still riles me.

[Narrator]

Especially when I saw the hissy and musty. Sooner or later I will get what's come of you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hear them? I wonder who they are. Two fell out of that. Yes, just two of them. Who's this man Erwin they mentioned? Seems that Erwin can send those two to jail. They must be crooks. Which case they should be in jail. That's right. If Erwin, whoever he is, isn't sending them there, he must be as crooked as they are. Him, I are crooked for what? There's a lot of food for thought in what those two men said. Kimasabe. Tomorrow when we go into town, we'll see if we can learn who Erwin is. Maybe our friends know him. If Missouri Mustang Mag don't know him, nobody will.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

The following morning, old Missouri the sheriff rode out to Mustang Mag's ranch and met with his usual reception.

[Mustang Mag]

I don't care if you are the sheriff, Missouri. You needn't come calling here with that official expression on your face. But I'm here on official business. It makes no difference to me. I say, what's that you said?

[Narrator]

I'm here on official business. Doggone and all, I don't like it.

[Mustang Mag]

What official business, you coot? You wouldn't know official business if it stepped right up and bit you. Now calm yourself, Mag. Hang it all, you just seem to.

[Narrator]

Want to make my job hard. Now let me handle this my way, won't you?

[Mustang Mag]

All right, go ahead and make it fast. You got bread in the oven all right.

[Narrator]

Here again.

[Mustang Mag]

As sheriff of this year county, I'm.

[Narrator]

Serving you with this yer paper in accordance with the law.

[Mustang Mag]

You're done now.

[Narrator]

Yep, I'm done now. As old Missouri you are famous. Hold on.

[Mustang Mag]

Let's see what this paper is.

[Narrator]

Well, I'll tell you what it is. And I'll also tell you that you're.

[Mustang Mag]

A nattle headed up.

[Narrator]

I says that you shouldn't be trusted to go around signing your name to Paper.

[The Lone Ranger]

What?

[Narrator]

Now, Meg, don't pile up.

[Mustang Mag]

Let me finish. You'll sit and keep still. Let me look at this. What's it for now?

[Narrator]

Well, it's a notice that if you don't pay John Irwin $2,000 by the.

[Mustang Mag]

First of the month. Hold on. Why in Tunker should I pay John Irwin Any $2,000?

[Narrator]

Cause you borrowed it. Says so right there.

[Mustang Mag]

You're nothing of the sort.

[Narrator]

Now, Mag, you needn't try to hide your personal assayers from me.

[Mustang Mag]

I ain't hiding nothing. I never borrowed no $2,000. And I lambaste a man that says I did.

[Narrator]

Irwin says you did, and so's the mortgage he's got. And so's the signature you wrote on that mortgage.

[Mustang Mag]

I seen it. Listen, you old goat, where'd you get this paper?

[Narrator]

Jack Irwin. He come to the office and told me how you borrowed cash. And how the mortgage was fallen due and he wanted the cash.

[Mustang Mag]

This calls for some thinking. You shouldn't have got yourself in so deep. Ma', am, be still. I'm a saint.

[Narrator]

There's times when women should seek out the judgment of men that they can trust.

[Mustang Mag]

$2,000.

[Narrator]

I could have told you that it wasn't good sense to go into depths as deep as that. You ain't the cattle to carry.

[Mustang Mag]

Well, you be still, Missouri. I ain't saying nothing.

[Narrator]

Besides, I always figured that me and you was sort of confiding in one another. And I was right.

[Mustang Mag]

Hurt, ain't so? That's all, huh? There's something mighty odd about this, Missouri. I don't owe Irwin any money like that. Now, man, I said I don't. Now, do you want to argue it?

[Narrator]

Well, Guy Snow. Mag, I only. Well, that is why. Well, the name you sign says you do. You say you don't owe the cash.

[Mustang Mag]

And that's a little confusing. Well, it needn't be. See here. How well do you know this Irwin Critter?

[Narrator]

Well, gosh, Meg, you know what he's like. He never shows much of hisself around town. He always keeps sort of. Who's that?

[Mustang Mag]

Six lies. Am I hearing things? Was that offering with a mask?

[The Lone Ranger]

How are you?

[Mustang Mag]

Oh, my sticks. Alive.

[Narrator]

Great Scott. Mister, it's good to see you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hello, Missouri.

[Narrator]

And Tono, too. Hiya, Tono. Oh, step in.

[Mustang Mag]

Step in and sit. Missouri, get that kettle of stew over the fire and heat it up.

[Narrator]

You bet I will. He's a man alive. That's more welcome, mister.

[Mustang Mag]

And you shouldn't have come at a better time.

[Narrator]

I've been having a pack of trouble with Mag.

[Mustang Mag]

She's got herself into trouble.

[Narrator]

$2,000 worth.

[Mustang Mag]

You shush. I want no trouble at all till you come here bringing this paper.

[The Lone Ranger]

What paper, Mag?

[Mustang Mag]

Jack Owens. He claims that I.

[The Lone Ranger]

Whose paper? Jack? Owen. I came here to ask if you knew him.

[Mustang Mag]

Sure I do not. Why? What do you know about Owen?

[The Lone Ranger]

Nothing. I came here to find out what I could about him. Last night Irwin's name was mentioned to you?

[Narrator]

Yes. Who was talking about him?

[The Lone Ranger]

A couple of men whom I believe are crooks.

[Mustang Mag]

It's Erwin himself. That's a cr. The idea of him trying to claim that I owe him $2,000.

[Narrator]

Well, if you don't owe him nothing then.

[Mustang Mag]

I didn't say that. I do owe him something. $200 and I'm ready to pay it to him.

[Narrator]

Then you did borrow from him?

[Mustang Mag]

Sure I did. Same as lots of others have. But what I borrowed was $200, not 2,000.

[Narrator]

Then by Juniper I'm gonna see him and get it straightened out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now wait a minute, Ms. Ori.

[Narrator]

I've gotta get moving and see Mr. Irwin.

[Mustang Mag]

If he thinks he can make a.

[Narrator]

Fool out of me or try and hoodwink mut Stang Mag while I'm around.

[Mustang Mag]

He'S got more thinking to do.

[Narrator]

I'll see you later.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mustang Meg, Perhaps you can give us some help.

[Mustang Mag]

I'd sure like some help myself. I don't sav it at all.

[The Lone Ranger]

Irwin seems to have gotten together with some crooks. I gathered from what I heard that he was putting over a deal that would mean a lot of money to him.

[Mustang Mag]

I can't say this Mr. Irwin always seemed like a real good sort to me.

[Narrator]

Never knowed him very well.

[Mustang Mag]

But then I did say he was first rate.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's well thought of in town. Oh yeah.

[Mustang Mag]

He's got plenty of cash and has always been willing to lend a little here and there where he could tide folks over for a spell. He like him to try a low down ornery trick like he's doing.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see. And where does he live?

[Mustang Mag]

In town.

[The Lone Ranger]

I know, but tell me.

[Mustang Mag]

Oh, you can't miss his house. About the biggest in the town. It's all painted up with white. It's the first place you see riding from here toward town at just this side of the church.

[The Lone Ranger]

Very well.

[Mustang Mag]

Hey, you leaving too?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll see you later. I want to speak to Jack Irwin. Come on, T. We're heading for town.

[Narrator]

Plenty man, huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll ride slowly enough to let him get to Irwin first. Come on. S.

[Mustang Mag]

Whoa there.

[Narrator]

Whoa, dad. Ratchet my shulifer. I'll have a showdown with Mr. Jack Irwin, that's what I will. Ain't going to do any Maggie while I'm around. Not on your tintype. Open up there, Irwin. It's the sheriff come back to see you. Ain't it just my lucky to hold. I come about that paper you give me. Dory glanced. Anyone home here? Reckon he's going somewheres. Which same is mighty odd being as he never leaves the house. Jumping juniper. He's hurt, Irwin. Erwin, speak to me. It's Missouri. It's the sheriff. Dead?

[The Lone Ranger]

Dead are in a doornail.

[Narrator]

What's going on here?

[Mustang Mag]

Oh, my sake. Mr. Bayes. Up there on the floor.

[Narrator]

Missouri, what'd you do? Now hold on, Brady. I don't know what's happened here.

[Mustang Mag]

Dennis, you killed John Irwin. I never done no such thing.

[Narrator]

Stand where you are, Missouri. Even if you are the sheriff, you can't get away with stabbing men dead. I didn't do it, Brady. Then why are you here? Who let you in? No one.

[Mustang Mag]

He's killed Mr. Irwin. He's got a hang for it.

[Narrator]

You say no one let you in here?

[Mustang Mag]

That's what I said.

[Narrator]

How'd you get in? The door was open. Oh, so you snuck in, eh? Snuck in and knifed Irwin. Look here, Brady.

[Mustang Mag]

What are you doing here?

[Narrator]

What business you got coming to Irwin's house? Me? I've been calling frequent. Me and Jesse Irwin's cook are keeping company.

[Mustang Mag]

That's right. The Brady was in the kitchen.

[Narrator]

Oh, he was, huh?

[Mustang Mag]

And I suppose you didn't hear me yelling to get in to see Irwin? We didn't hear nothing.

[Narrator]

You go get the deputy, Jesse. I'll hold Missouri here.

[Mustang Mag]

I will, Brady.

[Narrator]

I tell you, I don't know a doggone singer.

[Andrew Rines]

Brady.

[Narrator]

What the.

[The Lone Ranger]

Make me.

[Narrator]

Get me out here, mister. Get me out here.

[Mustang Mag]

I got work to do.

[Narrator]

Mast, eh? So you're friends with the outlaw. Say missour. Why you. Look, Brady, there you come this way. Hunter got wash ready. Go on, Missouri. Take to hiding with your partners and we'll know you're as guilty as s. Come on, Missouri. Yeah, go on, Missouri. Look, mister, if I take it on the run, the whole town will think.

[Mustang Mag]

I killed her one.

[The Lone Ranger]

They'll think so anyway and hang you before there's a chance to find the real killer. Now get out of here. Get going while you have a chance.

[Mustang Mag]

Oh, my sakes. Why does everything have to happen to me?

[Narrator]

We'll find you, Missouri. We'll start a par out and find you if it takes till doomsday on.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your horse, Missouri, and ride with T.

[Narrator]

But you heard what I said. I'll be hunted down. So will you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah. T. Take this hat and shirt and give me those old clothes out of that saddlebag.

[Narrator]

You're taking off the mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't worry. My face is disguised.

[Narrator]

Oh, every.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm not going with you. It takes over a long tado. Meet me at last night's camp and get going. You come?

[Narrator]

I reckon there ain't no choice. Get enough scout?

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

A short time later, the Lone Ranger re entered the Irwin home and found Brady and Jesse still there.

[Narrator]

We'll get miserable now. There ain't a doubt about who killed Irwin.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's happening here?

[Narrator]

Who are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

As far as you're concerned, I'm a stranger. What's happened to this man?

[Narrator]

He's murdered. Can't you see?

[Mustang Mag]

Missouri done it. We caught him in the act.

[The Lone Ranger]

You saw the murder?

[Mustang Mag]

Well, same as we got here right after.

[Narrator]

Found the sheriff himself standing over the corpse with a knife in his hand.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Sheriff? Where is he now?

[Narrator]

He had a couple of pals that come and took him to hiding.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why would he murder this man?

[Narrator]

Jesse can tell you.

[Mustang Mag]

Because Mr. Irwin held a mortgage on the ranch that Mustang Mag owns. And she's a friend of old Missouri. And Missouri nopes couldn't meet the mortgage.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good motive and everything, huh?

[Narrator]

I'm going after the deputies and former posse.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, wait just a minute. What? Are you being too hasty?

[Narrator]

There ain't no time to lose.

[The Lone Ranger]

But if Missouri didn't commit this murder, you'll chase him while the real killers escape round.

[Narrator]

Was Missouri all right? It has to be. He's the killer. And as soon as he's found, he'll hang.

[Mustang Mag]

Brady means what he says, stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I'm afraid he does.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

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

[Dutch Vet Ad Narrator]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24. 7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments. And shipping is always free. With Dutch. You'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[Narrator]

I hear that you was wanting me. Oh, you heard, eh? As if you didn't know it when you ran off in the first place. Well, what are you gents waiting for?

[Mustang Mag]

You're taking me to jail, ain't you?

[Narrator]

That's what we are. And pronto with that then let's get.

[Mustang Mag]

Oh, Missouri.

[Narrator]

Missouri.

[Mustang Mag]

You don't mean to tell me that you really did kill Owen?

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Mustang Mag]

Then why entire nation have you come here to surrender without a fight?

[Narrator]

I'll get tried in court, Mag. They won't set out to lynch me without no trial. You get your trial.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right. Enough.

[Narrator]

Now turn back and start. I'm ready. Boys, it ain't never to be said that Missouri didn't uphold a law.

[The Lone Ranger]

There we go.

[Narrator]

Peace talk.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hold on.

[Mustang Mag]

You gone adelbrain now. Won't stand by and see act loco. Where at his old ranger? Why didn't he keep you out of the hands of these half brained critters that are so adultly charged you with a murder. Now, Meg, you're just riling yourself over nothing. Come on, Ms. Ore. Where's the Lone Ranger?

[Narrator]

Mag, it was the Lone Ranger that told me to hunt up Brady and the deputy and surrender myself to them.

[Mustang Mag]

He darned that. Yep, and he didn't do it.

[Narrator]

Figured that I'd swing for a murder I didn't do.

[Mustang Mag]

Then why.

[Narrator]

I ain't no more to say.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then move.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Get up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get up.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

With Missouri in jail, the Lone Ranger and Tonto rode toward a cave some distance from town.

[The Lone Ranger]

There can be no mistake about it, Tanta. They followed the trail carefully the first time we came this way. They're not mistake. The cave is just a little further beyond the trees. One mount to crook. I saw them riding toward town a little while ago. You have no colors. When I saw them in the daylight, I recognized them. One was Sid Newman. The other Bat Kester. Oh, hello. Wants both of them for a hold up in San Mateo County. That long way from here? That's why they think they're fairly safe here. So there's the cave right up through this mount here. It's going to surprise a lot of people in town when we show them what we've learned.

[Narrator]

Big surprise.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your gun handy in case there are members of the gang that we don't know about. Ready now? Step in. Ready now. It's all right. He's alone. P Look.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

The town was in a turmoil with news of the murder and the capture of Missouri. Then two men appeared with a claim that caused a new sensation.

[Narrator]

Here's the copy of the will, Sheriff. I reckon you'll agree this signature of Mr. Irwin is on the level, seems to me. Take a look, Brady. You knew Irwin better than anyone else. She's writing, all right. You'll find the original of the wool somewhere around the late Mr. Irwin's house, according to what he said the letter he sent us. How did you two heirs know he was dead? He was just passing through again. Heard the news?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's the way of it.

[Narrator]

Your name is Newman, huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's me. And this is Mr. Caster.

[Narrator]

I figure it won't take long to settle things up with it. Well, it shouldn't. There ain't no doubt about Irwin being dead. You two figure on settling down here? Reckon we might as well. Irwin has a big place. Little ticket kept, lad.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Well, we talked it over, you see.

[The Lone Ranger]

And figured we may as well keep it stead of selling it.

[Narrator]

Best ranch in this district. None better. Gosh, what luck for the two of you. How Dillman come to leave you all he owns? He saved his life. Where in San that is? Long ways wested here. Someone's stopping outside out there. Seems to be plenty of excitement out there. Well, I'll have a look.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Stand back, all of your.

[Narrator]

Put that gun it back at all. Hey, you. What is it, Brady? Throw your hands up and drop them guns. Come here, sheriff. Get the drop on them. You don't need guns on us. We came here to surrender. Just keep your friends from opening fire. Come here, Smear. It's the Lone Ranger. Come on, sheriff, get him.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll help him, Ranger. Ain't that what they said?

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't like it. Let's clear out. Yeah, we could. Where are you two going?

[Narrator]

Was it you?

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Well, shove on, Brady. Looks like you'll be busy.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll stay right here for the time being.

[Narrator]

We will not stay.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sit down there. You'll be interested in what we have to say.

[Narrator]

For a man that's under arrest, you've got a lot to say. These men don't.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're the one that claims I'm under arrest, Brady. He'll change your story when you hear what I have to say. Those two men might be the ones you want from place of Missouri and caught on me.

[Narrator]

Those two? He's luck. Those fighting words. These colorless killers. He can't do that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who are you two?

[Narrator]

Mr. Brady and the acting sheriff know who we are. That's all that counts. They're the ones that'll inherit the Irwin ranch.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, they will, huh?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

How do they know it so soon after Irwin's death?

[Narrator]

Irwin wrote him a Letter and told him he sent him a copy of his last will and testament. I see.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's it.

[Narrator]

Now we'll leave him.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll sit.

[Narrator]

I'll be hag, Uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

Say, you sit.

[Narrator]

All right, all right. You didn't stick a knife in me. You act like you had a plenty.

[The Lone Ranger]

To say for yourself, mister. If I didn't have, I wouldn't have ridden here to see you knowing that you had a posse out hunting me. Well, Missouri wouldn't have surrendered either if he hadn't felt certain that he'd be proved innocent of the murder of Jack Irwin.

[Narrator]

Start talking.

[The Lone Ranger]

First of all, how do you know Jack Irwin was murdered?

[Narrator]

Oh, why, great guns. We saw him dead.

[The Lone Ranger]

How do you know it was Irwin?

[Narrator]

You saw him?

[The Lone Ranger]

How?

[Narrator]

What did. Why, gosh, how do I know it's Missouri that's in jail. I know that's all.

[The Lone Ranger]

Because the dead man looked like Irwin. Isn't that the truth?

[Narrator]

Sure. And Jesse worked for him. She knew what he looked like.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tell me this, Brady. How are Jesse's eyes?

[Narrator]

They suit me.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Quiet.

[The Lone Ranger]

But her eyesight is not good, is it?

[Narrator]

Well, ain't what it might be.

[The Lone Ranger]

In other words, if another man were to be dressed in the clothes of Jack Irwin and his hair and mustache fixed the same way, there might be room for doubt. You mean to say how to bring the man in? I'll forgive him.

[Narrator]

What are you getting at, mister?

[The Lone Ranger]

Jack Irwin is not dead.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

It's a trick.

[Narrator]

A trick? To do with all our inheritance.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll find out the sort of trick that's been played.

[Narrator]

Hello, Brady. Who in the same hill are you? The name is John Irwin. That ain't so. You aren't John Irwin. Oh, yes, I am. Those two men cut off my beard.

[The Lone Ranger]

And cut my hair short.

[Narrator]

I can prove my vermin, though, by recalling every event in detail in my life. He talks like Irwin.

[The Lone Ranger]

You stoop.

[Narrator]

This here's a lot of trickery. We a stand for this.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sit down and keep still. Meanwhile, hand over your guns. None if you'll decide to use them. I'll turn your guns.

[Narrator]

If you want my shooting. I take it this way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pick up his gun, Brady.

[Narrator]

Gosh, I've heard of the Lone Ranger shooting, but never seen it before.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now sit still. Bat Kester.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

What was that name?

[Narrator]

Bat Kester.

[The Lone Ranger]

You look over the reward notices from San Mateo County. You'll find both Kester and Newman are wanted.

[Narrator]

And if you're interested in what these crooks planned, I'll tell you. I don't know what should be done. Maybe Missouri should be here. Tell us your story, Irwin. Then we'll see if Missouri gets out of jail. These two crooks were working with another man who called himself Irwin. The three of them came to my house while I was making out a notice for Mustang Mag. They made me finish the notice then captured me. That's the notice Missouri took to her, ain't it? Yeah. Then Caster Newman took me to a cave and held me captive. I was shaved and my hair was cut. Why was that done?

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't know at first.

[Narrator]

I was left in the cave. Then Bat and Sid went away. They came back well pleased with themselves. They double crossed their own leader, murdered him and the sheriff. Old Missouri had arrived in time to take the blame. So that's how it was done.

[The Lone Ranger]

If you hadn't been so certain that Missouri was the killer, you'd have found the tracks that these two men made when they left the Irwin house. They went out a rear window.

[Narrator]

Go ahead, Irwin. The first plan had been for this imposter to take my place. These two thought of a better scheme though. They made me make out a will leaving everything to them. Then they killed their leader who was going to kill me. What's shaving you? Why was that? The plan was to kill me and let me be found as a stranger. Pretty slick. I told you I was making out a notice just as a matter of form for the sheriff to take the Mustang Mag. Yes, well, knowing Mustang Mag as I do, I made the mortgage 2000 instead of 200. I reasoned that no matter what happened to me, Mustang Mag would make such a commotion about being overcharged that there would surely be an investigation. I hope that would bring the criminals to justice. Doggone good thinking. Mighty smart. If you want proof, you can follow the same tracks the Lone Ranger followed to the cave where I was held. I reckon the looks on the faces of those two crooks is all we need to go by.

[Mustang Mag]

Hey there, you action shell Mustang nag.

[Narrator]

Who left that door open? The Lone Ranger left it open when he went out.

[Mustang Mag]

Don't matter who racks it open when I'm here and I'm making out and out demands on you. Missouri is pining away in that caraboose and he ain't guilty. Now, dad, Ratchet, Skinny, hide. You either let Missouri elf pronto or you give me the keys to do so.

[Narrator]

Give her the keys, Deputy.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

Here they are, Mag.

[Mustang Mag]

By ginger, I sure expected to have to fight for them.

[Narrator]

Good for you, Meg.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who you?

[Narrator]

I'm the man Missouri is supposed to have killed.

[Mustang Mag]

Huh, Sucran Sassafras I gotta get Missouri out without him here. This office is plum Roko I owe.

[The Lone Ranger]

My.

[Narrator]

Sam.

[Dutch Vet Ad Narrator]

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[The Lone Ranger]

Sam.

[Narrator (Lone Ranger Intro)]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com/facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com 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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Dutch Vet Ad Narrator]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24.7access to life licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments and shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.