Justice Wears a Mask | The Lone Ranger (02-17-41)

Summary

Justice Wears a Mask | The Lone Ranger (02-17-41)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Air Date: January 3, 2026
Restored Original Air Date: February 17, 1941

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Overview

In this classic radio episode, the Lone Ranger rides into Greenwood, a town gripped by corruption and fear, to help an innocent man, Jerry Marshall, who stands accused of murder. As the forces of corrupt lawmen seek to suppress truth and justice, the Lone Ranger orchestrates an urgent campaign to expose the guilty and restore order, enlisting the aid of the town’s long-retired founder and respected lawyer, Jonathan Greenwood.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Greenwood’s Corruption & Setting the Stage (00:52–02:43)

• The episode opens with an account of widespread corruption in the western frontier, especially among public officials who prioritize personal gain over justice.
• The Lone Ranger and his companion Tonto arrive outside Greenwood, ominously observing a gunshot from their vantage point—an incident that sets the plot in motion.

2. Jerry and Ann’s Relationship – Hope and Danger (02:57–05:02)

• Jerry Marshall and Ann Dalton are introduced discussing Jerry’s dream of owning a ranch and their plans for marriage, highlighting both hope and uncertainty.
• Their tender exchange is interrupted by the arrival of Tonto and then the sheriff, signaling trouble.

Notable Quote:

• "In Greenwood, Bart Sterling can make trouble for anybody he wants to." – Ann Dalton, (05:02)

3. False Accusation and Immediate Peril (05:10–06:26)

• Sheriff Bart Sterling and his deputy frame Jerry for the murder of Joe Williams, relying on a supposed dying accusation, even as Ann provides Jerry’s alibi.
• Bart manipulates the narrative, casting Ann as a liar, intending to railroad Jerry into a conviction.

Notable Quote:

• "When Jerry Marshall comes to trial, he can tell the story to the judge and the jury. But we got a dead man's word against it." – Sheriff Bart Sterling, (06:03)

4. The Lone Ranger’s Plan – Rallying Old Heroes (06:26–09:27)

• The Lone Ranger recognizes the corruption—Judge Rolfe is as crooked as Sterling—and plans to bring Jonathan Greenwood, the town’s retired founder and esteemed lawyer, out of retirement.
• Greenwood’s initial hesitance gives way to resolve when he realizes his duty:
  • "I'm old and tired. But a call to duty such as this... It's done me more good than all the medicine in the world. I'll take the case." – Jonathan Greenwood, (08:45)

5. Corruption in Action: The Fix in the Trial (10:03–11:44)

• Sterling and Rolfe anticipate a quick, sham trial, having manipulated Ann into silence with threats.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto deduce that Ann’s refusal to testify stems from intimidation.

6. Ann’s Dilemma and Renewed Courage (12:18–13:16)

• The Lone Ranger persuades Ann to testify, citing both her duty and Greenwood’s arrival as Jerry’s defender.
• Ann’s courage is rekindled, but when the town learns Greenwood disappears en route, hope falters again.

Notable Quote:

• "Are you going to fail in your duty because you lack courage?" – Lone Ranger, (13:11)

7. Greenwood’s Kidnapping and the Rescue (15:42–19:20)

• The sheriff’s gang waylays Greenwood, keeping him from reaching town by hiding him in a remote cabin.
• The Lone Ranger confronts Bart Sterling and his henchmen, warning:
  • "The man who killed Jonathan Greenwood won't be safe anywhere in the United States. Adios, boys." – Lone Ranger, (17:18)
• Tracking a panicked gang member, the Lone Ranger and Tonto rescue Greenwood just in time for the trial.

8. The Dramatic Courtroom Showdown (20:18–25:07)

• The Lone Ranger intervenes as the trial devolves into a farce, disarming the corrupt officials and placing Greenwood in the judge’s seat.
• Ann testifies under oath, revealing the threats made by Bart Sterling and the arrangement to let Jerry live only if she stayed silent.
• Devastated, under questioning, Pete Atkins confesses to Joe Williams’ murder and implicates the sheriff.

Memorable Exchange:

• "Did anyone suggest to you that it would be wiser to remain silenced?"

• "They said that if I didn't take the witness stand, they'd let Jerry off with a jail sentence. If I testified, he'd never leave the courtroom alive."
  – Jonathan Greenwood and Ann Dalton, (23:09–23:24)

• "Pete Atkins, you killed Joe Williams."

• "I didn't. Please, look out. It was the sheriff himself. I saw him!" – Jonathan Greenwood and Pete Atkins, (24:32–24:51)

9. Justice Restored and Greenwood’s Challenge (25:07–26:31)

• Jerry is acquitted. The corrupt sheriff and judge are deposed and arrested.

• Greenwood encourages the townsfolk to take responsibility for future justice:

  • "The responsibility for good government is in your hands. In the hands of each and every one of you. That’s the fundamental principle of the democratic ideal. Are you all true Americans? Remember that." – Jonathan Greenwood, (26:14)

• The Lone Ranger departs quietly, as Ann and Jerry vow to honor his legacy by keeping Greenwood a home of justice.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments (Chronological Timestamps)

• "[05:02]"
  "In Greenwood, Bart Sterling can make trouble for anybody he wants to." – Ann Dalton

• "[06:03]"
  "When Jerry Marshall comes to trial, he can tell the story to the judge and the jury. But we got a dead man's word against it." – Sheriff Bart Sterling

• "[08:45]"
  "I'm old and tired. But a call to duty such as this... It's done me more good than all the medicine in the world. I'll take the case." – Jonathan Greenwood

• "[13:11]"
  "Are you going to fail in your duty because you lack courage?" – Lone Ranger

• "[17:18]"
  "The man who killed Jonathan Greenwood won't be safe anywhere in the United States. Adios, boys." – Lone Ranger

• "[23:09–23:24]"
  "They said that if I didn't take the witness stand, they'd let Jerry off with a jail sentence. If I testified, he'd never leave the courtroom alive." – Ann Dalton

• "[24:32–24:51]"
  "Pete Atkins, you killed Joe Williams. I didn't. Please, look out. It was the sheriff himself. I saw him!" – Jonathan Greenwood/Pete Atkins

• "[26:14]"
  "The responsibility for good government is in your hands. In the hands of each and every one of you. That's the fundamental principle of the democratic ideal." – Jonathan Greenwood

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Important Segments & Timestamps

• 00:52–01:57: Intro narration and setting the moral stakes
• 02:57–04:28: Jerry and Ann’s relationship, marriage discussion, and foreshadowed trouble
• 05:10–06:26: Jerry’s arrest and the sheriff’s framing
• 06:26–09:27: The Lone Ranger recruits Greenwood
• 11:27–12:44: Judge and sheriff discuss silencing the witness
• 12:18–13:16: The Lone Ranger gives Ann new resolve to testify
• 15:42–19:20: Greenwood's abduction and rescue sequence
• 20:18–25:07: The climactic courtroom drama
• 26:14–26:34: Greenwood’s call to civic duty and Lone Ranger’s legacy

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Concluding Assessment

Tone:
Heroic, earnest, and principled, blending classic western bravado with moral clarity.

Summary Usefulness:
This episode exemplifies the Lone Ranger's enduring mission: to expose injustice, empower the innocent, and awaken communities to their own responsibilities. For listeners, it is as much an adventure as a call to action, richly dramatized and newly vibrant through the podcast’s restoration.

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For fans of the golden age of radio, “Justice Wears a Mask” offers not just nostalgia but an evergreen message of courage, integrity, and community action.

Transcript

[Ann Dalton]

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. 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]

A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hyo. Silver the Lone Ranger. In the early days of the western United States, many of the men in public office used their position for private gain instead of the people's good. These corrupt officials formed the greatest barrier. The masked rider of the plains met in his fight for justice. And only his strength and courage unequaled throughout the west could have won the final victory. For the forces of right over might return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats the great horse. Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Jerry Marshall]

Come on, Silver. We're heading for Greenwood.

[Narrator]

There's going to be trouble. I don't.

[Jerry Marshall]

Silver.

[Narrator]

Ha. The sun was setting as a lone ranger in Tonto rained up on the hill outside of Greenwood. We won't go any farther. T. There's a cowboy and a girl on the trail ahead. MC Mouse. Yes. I'll make camp here and you ride into town and get the supplies. Supplies we need. Maybe we stay here a long time. It's possible the stories we've heard about Greenwood are true. Oh, that shot. We can see the main street from here. Must have been fired from one of the houses. People are on out in the street now. I see them. Find out what's happened.

[Jerry Marshall]

Hunter.

[Narrator]

Oh, Hunter. Do it.

[Jerry Marshall]

Get him up.

[Ann Dalton]

Scout, There's a crowd in the street outside of Joe Williams house. Jay, let's hurry.

[Jerry Marshall]

No, Ann.

[Ann Dalton]

I heard a shot.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, so did I, but that's nothing unusual in Greenwood. And besides, I got something important to tell you.

[Ann Dalton]

Something more?

[Jerry Marshall]

Yeah.

[Ann Dalton]

Can't be as important as buying the ranch. You worked a long time for it, Jerry. That's right.

[Jerry Marshall]

I wanted that little spread mighty bad for a special reason.

[Ann Dalton]

What is it?

[Narrator]

Well, Anna.

[Jerry Marshall]

Gosh, I never figured this would be so hard to get out, but I. Oh, well. Do you like singing in the cafe?

[Ann Dalton]

Why, I don't mind. Of course, I don't like it when I have to be nice to people like Bart Sterling, but most of the boys are all right.

[Jerry Marshall]

Wouldn't you like it better off the side?

[Ann Dalton]

There's an Indian coming. But I. Get over. He seems to be In a hurry.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'll be dog. Now I'll never get it out.

[Ann Dalton]

Of course, I don't intend to sing in a cafe all my life. I guess I'll get married and settle down on a ranch in an ice bean valley somewhere. I guess every girl looks forward to something like that.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, say.

[Ann Dalton]

What?

[Jerry Marshall]

I was just wondering if you. You ain't made any plans yet, have you?

[Ann Dalton]

Not. Definitely not.

[Jerry Marshall]

Bart Sterling.

[Ann Dalton]

Oh, I should say not. Not.

[Jerry Marshall]

Not me.

[Ann Dalton]

Why, Jerry, if I said yes to that, you'd wear your brown crown. You'd never stop using your quirk till you got to California. Do you think I want to scare you to death? But you wouldn't.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'd feel mighty brave.

[Ann Dalton]

Oh, you Would I?

[Jerry Marshall]

Oh, you just been egging me on.

[Ann Dalton]

I've been doing my best. Huh? Then sakes, Jerry. Pop the question, will you? Yes. Yippee. Come on.

[Narrator]

The whole town's gonna celebrate.

[Ann Dalton]

No, Jerry. No. You must promise me that you won't tell anybody what we're planning to do.

[Jerry Marshall]

There's a crowd up ahead.

[Ann Dalton]

Spot selling's there. Jerry, I mean it. You mustn't tell anybody. You go out to the valley and get your ranch fixed up. Don't come back here. Just send me word. I'll meet you in Jonesville. We'll get married there.

[Jerry Marshall]

What's the idea? Promise me. Well, if that's the way you want it.

[Ann Dalton]

That's the way I want it. When I leave Greenwood, I'll never come back.

[Jerry Marshall]

Man, I can't figure.

[Narrator]

With.

[Ann Dalton]

They're looking for you. Yeah. I don't like him. I don't trust boss.

[Jerry Marshall]

Just because he's sheriff, that don't mean he can make any trouble for me.

[Ann Dalton]

Ren up. You're wrong, Jerry. In Greenwood, Bard selling can make trouble for anybody he wants to. I can't it out of here.

[Jerry Marshall]

What's that?

[Ann Dalton]

Hurry up.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'm not running away from anybody. You'll be sorry you didn't. Marshall Nitze, get down off that horse. What for? Get off or we'll drag you off. Come on, Pete. Take it easy, Sheriff. Now what's on your mind? You're under arrest for the murder of Joe Williams. Murder?

[Ann Dalton]

You're crazy, Bart.

[Jerry Marshall]

Crazy, am I? You won't think so for long. Just a second, Sheriff. Let's get this straight. I don't know nothing about any murder. I expected you'd say that. But Joe didn't die as quick as you thought he would. He told Pete and me that you killed him.

[Ann Dalton]

When? When was he killed?

[Jerry Marshall]

About 15 minutes ago.

[Ann Dalton]

That was a shot we heard on the trail, Jerry. We were half a mile outside of town by. Jerry couldn't have done it.

[Jerry Marshall]

Trying to save him, huh?

[Ann Dalton]

It's the truth.

[Jerry Marshall]

Marshall had his horse waiting in back of William's cabin. After the shooting, he headed across the meadow and down into the hollow. Then he cut back to the trail and rode into town. Trying to make us think he just got here.

[Ann Dalton]

Jerry and I have been together since 2 o'. Clock. We rode all the way to Painted Ridge and back.

[Jerry Marshall]

You two are planning to get hitched, aren't you?

[Ann Dalton]

That's our business.

[Jerry Marshall]

It's the law's business too. Cause now you're trying to save his neck with a lie. Don't let her get away with it, Sheriff. She hasn't a chance. When Jerry Marshall comes to trial, he can tell the story to the judge and the jury. But we got a dead man's word against it. Take him to jail, boys. Get him off.

[Narrator]

Then, Sheriff, take him to jail. He couldn't have done it, Hunter. We saw him on the trail below us. At the time the shot was fired. That's right. But the sheriff won't listen to the testimony of a masked man. If he wouldn't listen to that girl, it's a frame up. And unless we can do something about it, the boy will hang. Don't him get trial. But not a fair trial. We know the judge, Ralph, is just as crooked as Bart Sterling. Bart will see to it that his own men serve on the jury. Marshall won't even have a lawyer to defend him. Wait a minute. You got plan? There are still more honest men in Greenwood than crooks. We could use this case to arouse them. We might be able to clean up the whole town. You not want boy to die? Of course not. And he won't have to. We help him escape. Not before we try something else first. We'll get him the right lawyer. Who? That old Jonathan Greenwood himself. The man for whom the town was named. Him live plenty far. I know he's been living on his ranch in Horseshoe Valley for the last 10 years. But I believe he'll come back to Greenwood when he realizes that he's needed. You go there now? Tonight. This minute? Yes. Over. Time to ride with you. You better stay here. I won't be able to get back before tomorrow night. Jess Greenwood will want to know everything that's happened in town. Me watch close.

[Jerry Marshall]

Come on, Silver. I'll. Silver.

[Ann Dalton]

Away.

[Jerry Marshall]

Silver Bullet.

[Narrator]

You've seen my horse.

[Jerry Marshall]

Call him Silver. Silver Bullet in a mask.

[Narrator]

Do they mean anything to you?

[Jerry Marshall]

They certainly do. But I think your errand would have been enough to identify you.

[Narrator]

And what's your answer?

[Jerry Marshall]

It's hard for me to believe that Greenwood should have changed so much since I left it.

[Narrator]

Bart Sterling and Judge Rolfe have run the town for the last two years.

[Jerry Marshall]

So they've all forgotten me, eh?

[Narrator]

The work that you did in the early days of Greenwood will never be forgotten.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'm an old man. I haven't touched a law book for 10 years.

[Narrator]

There's nothing difficult about the case. The boy's innocent. The girl's testimony will convince any jury. But they need someone to help them who isn't afraid of Bart Sterling.

[Jerry Marshall]

What's happened to Bill Leonard and High Walsh? What's happened to all the men who came west with me?

[Narrator]

Some of them are gone, of course.

[Jerry Marshall]

Of course.

[Narrator]

With the younger ones, I can't answer that. Perhaps they're too interested in the ranches of the business. I only know that Bart Sterling runs the town. His word is law.

[Jerry Marshall]

You feel that the honest men only need a leader to drive him out?

[Narrator]

I feel that they need you.

[Jerry Marshall]

You know, Mask man, I. I imagine that the days of my usefulness were past. I'm an old man.

[Narrator]

I'm.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'm old and tired. When a call to duty such as this. It's done me more good than all the medicine in the world. I'll take the case.

[Narrator]

Good. If you saddle up right now, we'll be able to reach Greenwood. By nightfall.

[Jerry Marshall]

If you go ahead, I'll meet you there.

[Narrator]

But they may hold the trial tomorrow or the next day.

[Jerry Marshall]

If it's tomorrow, I'll be too late. I can't ride that far. My men will drive me into Three Rivers and I'll take the stage. I'll be in Greenwood tomorrow night.

[Narrator]

I'll travel with you.

[Jerry Marshall]

You may be needed before then.

[Narrator]

I can't stop the trial, but from.

[Jerry Marshall]

What I've heard of you, you might be able to save the boys live.

[Narrator]

You're right. He'll be alive when you get there.

[Jerry Marshall]

Now, I think you'd better go before I call my men. Might be hard to explain. Your match.

[Narrator]

I'll see you in Greenwood tomorrow night. The Lone Ranger and Silver reach the camp outside of Greenwood shortly after dark. There, Tonto was waiting for the masked man with good news. The trial would not be held until the morning after Jonathan Greenwood was scheduled to arrive. But most of the people in town seemed to believe Bart's story of the dead man's accusation. And it seemed Almost certain that Jerry would be convicted the following day, Tonto spent in Greenwood keeping a close watch on the sheriff late that afternoon.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, look who's coming. Hi, Bud. You look like the cat that ate the canary. I've been working, Judge. Me and Bud just paid a call on Nan. You call that work?

[Ann Dalton]

Yep.

[Jerry Marshall]

That's gonna save you work tomorrow. That trial's gonna break records for speed. Suits me. I figured it would. You never did like to sit on that bench long. Makes me dizzy. Have a drink. Don't you want to know what happened? Well, of course I know Marshall's guilty and you might just as well hang him now. But a judge shouldn't make up his mind about things like that beforehand. I'll wait until tomorrow to hear your evidence. That's just it. There won't be any evidence for a man. She's been telling everybody that Poll Ted has an alibi. She's changed her mind, huh? Changed her mind. Just admitted to me that story was nothing but a lie. Well, we could hold a trial this afternoon if there's just you and Pete to listen to the shovel, if that is. Pete's riding guard on the stage from Three Rivers today. He won't be free till tomorrow. That's too bad. But don't you worry, Judge. From the time you leave this bar until you get back, it won't be more than a half an hour. We'll drink to that. Yeah. To justice. To justice.

[Narrator]

Well, Summer. Something wrong, Sheriff? Go to girl's house. Try and make a change of story. He can't do it. If it's true that she and Jerry planned to get married, she'll do anything in her power to save him. That's wrong. What do you mean, Sheriff? Tell Judge Girl not talk in court. She must know that Jerry will hang if she doesn't.

[Jerry Marshall]

Sheriff.

[Narrator]

Laugh. He must have threatened her in some way. We'll have to find out how. As soon as it's dark, I'll go and see her. And what about, Judge? The stage will be due about the same time. You go to the express office and meet him. Hire a wagon and bring him out here. Time to do it. But if that girl won't testify, he can't do his thing. Marshall will be condemned to hang. Steady, Sylvie. A friend.

[Ann Dalton]

A friend? Who are you?

[Narrator]

I'll have to step inside before I.

[Jerry Marshall]

Can tell you that you're masked.

[Ann Dalton]

God sent you here.

[Narrator]

No. I want to help you. And I want to help Marshall. You can't. Well, that depends on you. I've heard that you don't intend to take the witness stand tomorrow?

[Ann Dalton]

I don't care what you've heard. Why not get out of here.

[Narrator]

Isn't it true that you and Jerry Marshall plan to get married?

[Ann Dalton]

What dinner did that make anyone but us?

[Narrator]

You're the only person who can save his life. You realize that, don't you?

[Ann Dalton]

You said that you weren't from Bart.

[Narrator]

What if I were?

[Ann Dalton]

If you were, I wouldn't have to tell you anything.

[Narrator]

Well, perhaps this will change your mind. Old Jonathan Greenwood will arrive on the stage tonight. Is going to defend Jerry.

[Ann Dalton]

Jonathan Greenwood?

[Narrator]

One of the greatest lawyers the west ever knew. The man who founded this town.

[Ann Dalton]

But how? Why should he?

[Narrator]

Because he feels it's his duty to protect an innocent man he's never even seen. Jerry. Jerry means a thousand times as much to you. Are you going to fail in your duty because you lack courage?

[Ann Dalton]

No. I'll tell you everything. I. I thought I was all alone.

[Jerry Marshall]

Before, but now that I. Kimatabe.

[Narrator]

Tell her State. Come in, Judge. Not on it. Not on it. No. He had plenty of time to get the three Rivers. There isn't another stage until tomorrow night. Tono. Are you sure, Tonto?

[Jerry Marshall]

Sure.

[Narrator]

Nobody in stage. No guard. Only driver.

[Ann Dalton]

Pete.

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Ann Dalton]

Pete's the guard. He's one of Bart's men.

[Narrator]

Both Jonathan and the guard missing. That means.

[Ann Dalton]

That means that Greenwood may have started out, but he never got here. It means there's nothing you can do to beat them. Nothing.

[Narrator]

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

[Ann Dalton]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. When the stage arrived in town, neither Jonathan Greenwood nor the guard were on board. Pete was one of Bart's men. The Lone Ranger knew that the sheriff must have some connection with the lawyer's disappearance. He and Tonto waited in the shadows outside of Bart's home. The sheriff and Judge Rolfe were alone. They seemed to be waiting for someone. Until finally, hours later, a dark figure broke from the COVID of the cottonwoods and ran toward the back door.

[Jerry Marshall]

Still up. Good. Come on in. Yeah. Did Harry tell you? He told me you were inside the coach talking to the old man. Yeah, that's right. And that you called for him to stop and he marched the old man out at the point of a gun. Then you told Harry to drive on. Yeah. You got a lot of crush pulling a hold up without orders. Let's give him 90 days. Teach him a lesson. Mark, where's the money? I haven't got any. Are you trying to double cross? Let him go, boy. Where's the money? You gotta listen to me. Well, thanks. Go on. For sure. I knew the old gent was coming here and I decided to find out why. That's why I swung down into the coach. What, boss? His name was Jonathan Greenwood. Leaping Cactus Jonathan Greenwood. There ain't two of them. And he was coming here to be Jerry Marshall's lawyer. Who sent for him? How should I know that? But it didn't take much figuring to know you wouldn't like it. Count me in on that. So why not hold him outside of town until the trial was over? Maybe. No two ways about it. It's the opinion of this court that you use your brains for once. Pete. Yeah? I got him on. I don't want to know where he is. We're much obliged, but this was your idea. I don't want to get mixed up in any trouble with Jonathan Greenwood, the old fire eater. Hey, you can't go back on me, boss. I was. You get a hundred dollars for the job. I was only. Did you say a hundred dollars and the idea was yours? Sure. That's all right with me.

[Narrator]

Don't move. You're all covered.

[Jerry Marshall]

A mashman, an injured. You're talking to the law, mister.

[Narrator]

I know who you are, Sterling. And I just wanted to give you a friendly warning.

[Jerry Marshall]

Do I know you?

[Narrator]

This is straight. You and your gang had better get out of the country.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'm head man in this county.

[Narrator]

I said country, not county. The man who killed Jonathan Greenwood won't be safe anywhere in the United States. Adios, boy.

[Jerry Marshall]

Shall I? You didn't say you'd kill him, the fool. I didn't. I swear I didn't. That crook must have found his body. Then he killed him. Let's get a posse together. Hurry's gone. Not a sign of him. Ah, we'd never catch him. And Greenwood left Three Rivers on your stagecoach. Well, I could say we were held up six hours late. You can't get away with that. I didn't kill him. I just tied him up and left him in an old cabin. He's old. Maybe he died natural. There's only one thing left for you, Pete. Vamoose. That'll leave us all in a mess. No. Get back to that cabin. The old man's dead. Get rid of his body so nobody finds it.

[Narrator]

The door's opening. T. That's Pete. I don't think Bart will let him run away. I believe the trick worked him right now. And we'll follow him. Let's hope he leads us to Judge Greenwood. Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[Jerry Marshall]

Scout. It. Get light.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Jerry Marshall]

Kyle's Park. Pretty soon.

[Narrator]

We're nearing the end of the trail. Taboo, he's heading straight for that cabin.

[Jerry Marshall]

Leave Silver and scout here.

[Narrator]

No, he's going inside. We can't waste any time.

[Jerry Marshall]

Come on, Silver, fast. Let him off. Scout he sees his tunnel.

[Ann Dalton]

Get away.

[Narrator]

Right.

[Ann Dalton]

That gun.

[Narrator]

Pete.

[Jerry Marshall]

Hey, good work.

[Narrator]

Howdy. You roped him.

[Jerry Marshall]

Hey, what's the idea? What'd you come back here for?

[Narrator]

We wanted to make sure that neither you nor Greenwood missed the trial.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, what's the idea? Tie his hands behind back T. Good morning.

[Narrator]

Are you all right?

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, I have spent more comfortable nights.

[Narrator]

I'll have the roof's off in a minute.

[Jerry Marshall]

It's much better.

[Narrator]

May I help you up?

[Jerry Marshall]

Yes. When does the trial start?

[Narrator]

We'll have to hurry. Taddo, you and Pete ride double on scouts.

[Jerry Marshall]

You get up there. Get up there.

[Narrator]

This bay is yours, sir.

[Jerry Marshall]

Oh, never mind. I can still swing into a saddle.

[Narrator]

Yes, Silver. I'll ride beside you and tell you everything that's happened in town.

[Jerry Marshall]

Excellent. It's time I gave little thought to my brief.

[Narrator]

I have a plan, too. We'll see what you think of it. Are you ready, T? I'm you ready. Come on.

[Jerry Marshall]

Let him up.

[Narrator]

Still. There's the town below.

[Jerry Marshall]

Yes, it hasn't changed much to the eye.

[Narrator]

There's no one on the street. That means they're all in the courthouse.

[Jerry Marshall]

The trial's begun. I'm afraid I can't.

[Narrator]

Set your own pace, sir. I'll ride on ahead. But first, do you think my plan will work?

[Jerry Marshall]

He hasn't heard any of it, has he?

[Narrator]

No. I gave Tanner the signal to drop back.

[Jerry Marshall]

It stands a good chance. And our friend Pete doesn't impress me as being overly intelligent.

[Narrator]

That's what I'm counting on. Don't hurry, sir. I'll make sure that the jury doesn't reach a verdict before you get there. Come on, Silver.

[Jerry Marshall]

Good luck.

[Ann Dalton]

I'll.

[Jerry Marshall]

Silver away. Honoring the court. Well, gents, I told you what Joe Williams said before he died. And I guess that's all you need to hear. It's too bad Pete can't be here to back me up. But you've all heard him talking around town. Now, you want to go into the other room to consider your verdict, or shall we get it over with right now? Aren't you gonna let me take the stand Order? This trial's taken over 15 minutes already. You're living on borrowed time, Marshal. I'm innocent. Order. If we wasn't gonna hang you, I'd fine you for contempt of court.

[Narrator]

Reach for the sealing, everybody.

[Jerry Marshall]

It's the Mashman. Throw him out.

[Narrator]

Don't boom anyone.

[Jerry Marshall]

Sheriff.

[Narrator]

Put your guns on the bench in front of the judge.

[Jerry Marshall]

You can't hurry up. I am now.

[Narrator]

Tell your deputies to do the same thing.

[Jerry Marshall]

He's got us. Do what he says. That's it.

[Narrator]

Don't touch them, Judge.

[Jerry Marshall]

Not me.

[Narrator]

Now get away from in front of the judge. On the other side of the room, all of you. Step down from the bench.

[Jerry Marshall]

Judge say there's a trial going on.

[Narrator]

I'm going to take your place.

[Jerry Marshall]

Eh? Oh, yeah, yeah. Matter of fact, I got a little business to attend to. I'd be mighty obliged to have you relieve me for a while.

[Narrator]

Stand over there beside the sheriff.

[Jerry Marshall]

Yes, you, Honor.

[Ann Dalton]

Let me do. Let me do. Mast Penn. What's the use of all this? Just set him free and let him get out of the county. He'll be safe then.

[Narrator]

Before we finish, the whole town will be safe. Take the witness stand.

[Ann Dalton]

Me?

[Narrator]

Swear her in, Clerk.

[Jerry Marshall]

You gonna beat the judge now?

[Narrator]

Hurry up.

[Jerry Marshall]

I'll put your hand on the book. Do you swear to tell the truth.

[Narrator]

The whole truth and nothing but the truth?

[Ann Dalton]

I do.

[Jerry Marshall]

Good work. Your Honor, there's no judge in the West I'd rather plead a case before.

[Narrator]

Gentlemen of the jury, I'd like you to meet the counsel for the defense, Jonathan Greenwood.

[Jerry Marshall]

Hello, boys. It's been a long time.

[Narrator]

Bring Pete down here. T A witness has been sworn in.

[Jerry Marshall]

Excellent. Your name, please.

[Ann Dalton]

Ann Dalton.

[Jerry Marshall]

Suppose you tell us in your own words what you know of the murder.

[Ann Dalton]

I only know that Jerry didn't do it. He couldn't have.

[Jerry Marshall]

Why not?

[Ann Dalton]

There was only one shot fired. When Jerry and I heard that shot, we were riding along the trail at least a half a mile outside of town.

[Jerry Marshall]

I see. Why did you decide not to give that testimony here in corse where you were afraid not.

[Ann Dalton]

Not for myself. You must believe that. Jerry.

[Jerry Marshall]

Did anyone suggest to you that it would be wiser to remain silenced?

[Ann Dalton]

They. They said that if I didn't take the witness stand, they'd let Jerry off with a jail sentence. If I testified, he. He'd never leave the courtroom alive. Not even if the jury acquitted him.

[Jerry Marshall]

Who are they? Who was it that made the threat?

[Ann Dalton]

It was.

[Jerry Marshall]

I object.

[Narrator]

Objection overruled. Tell the jury who threatened you.

[Ann Dalton]

It was the sheriff, Bot Sterling.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, that's. That's all, Ms. Dalton. I'm calling on Pete Atkins to take the chair. In my opinion, gentlemen of the jury, this obvious effort of the prosecution to intimidate the witness permits only one conclusion. I shall try to prove that conclusion. Now here.

[Ann Dalton]

Can't legal.

[Jerry Marshall]

That mask man ain't a judge. I object.

[Narrator]

Objection overruled. Swear in the witness. Now, do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth?

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, I do. Careful, Pete. Quiet.

[Narrator]

Sheriff. Stay back with your men.

[Jerry Marshall]

Pete, where were you when a shot was fired across the street from Joe's house? In the sheriff's office. Were you alone? No, sheriff was with me. What did you do when the shot was fired? We ran across the street. Now, just where did the bullet enter Joe's body? It went straight through the heart, you fool.

[Narrator]

That's enough, sheriff.

[Jerry Marshall]

Well, maybe I'm wrong about that. It went straight through the heart. Did you. Did you hear Joe accuse Marshall of killing him? Yeah. Pete, the men on this jury are cattlemen. They've lived on the range all their lives. They know that a man who shot straight through the heart dies instantly. In most cases. In every case, as a matter of fact, when the sheriff entered Joe Williams house, he found you standing over the dead body, didn't he? He promised to give you protection. No. Pete Atkins, you killed Joe Williams. I didn't. Please look out. It was the sheriff himself. I saw him. Defense rests, your honor.

[Narrator]

The case is dismissed.

[Jerry Marshall]

And may I suggest that you appoint some special officers to take charge of the sheriff and his deputies.

[Narrator]

I leave that to you, shorty.

[Jerry Marshall]

Then get some boys together and keep those men under guard. But don't leave the courtroom, anyone. We have another case to consider. I suppose you're talking about me. That's perfectly correct, judge Rawls. You can't accuse me of breaking any laws. I've been careful. I'm going to head a petition to the governor to have you removed from office. Oh, only kick me out, huh? Exactly. Well, Greenwood, I'm going to save you the trouble. I'm going to consider myself kicked. So long, boys. Oh, you don't. You're not going to get away like that. He's cut in on every job we ever pulled. He's going to jail with the rest of us. But I'm sure disappointed in you, Shorty. See if you can find another pair of handcuffs in his pockets. Well, now, men, your town is free of this gang. Are you going to keep it safe for honest men and women? Well, the responsibility for good government is in your hands. In the hands of each and every one of you. That's the fundamental principle of the democratic ideal. Are you all true Americans? Remember that. Let's hope that the next time the Lone Ranger comes to Greenwood, he won't have to remind you of your legions. A Lone Ranger?

[Ann Dalton]

Where is he?

[Jerry Marshall]

He saved my life.

[Ann Dalton]

He saved both our lives. We want to thank him.

[Jerry Marshall]

He's gone. But the best thanks we can give him is to make Greenwood the home of justice.

[Narrator]

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

[Ann Dalton]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com 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.

[Ann Dalton]

Sa.