Key to Justice | The Lone Ranger (06-06-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: "Key to Justice"

The Lone Ranger (Original Airdate: 06-06-52)

Restored & Presented by Host Andrew Rhynes
Podcast Release Date: November 6, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode, "Key to Justice," brings listeners back to the golden days of radio with a digitally restored Lone Ranger adventure. In this gripping tale of greed, deception, and frontier justice, the Lone Ranger and his companions must unravel a deadly plot involving a murdered prospector, a cunning frame-up, and a battle of wits with a ruthless outlaw gang. The restoration brings new life to the vivid soundscapes and dramatic storytelling that made Old Time Radio Westerns a household staple.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. The Scheme Unfolds: Greed and Murder in Elmville

• Setting: Elmville, a mining town set in the rugged mountains, where prospectors and outlaws cross paths.
• Plot Initiation: Outlaw Squint Crowder, along with his gang (Jake and Steve), plans to rob Pop Markheim, a former storekeeper who now collects modest gold shares as repayment for his past generosity.
• Markheim's Fate: Crowder's gang confronts and kills Markheim after finding only stock certificates and some money, not the gold they hoped for.
  • "Sorry, Markheim, but we can't let you turn us over to the law." – Crowder [08:50]

2. A Devious Frame-Up

• Framing an Innocent: Crowder masterminds a plan to frame Shep Belden, an old man from the town, for Markheim's murder by planting evidence (stock certificates and gold) in his room.
  • "Give me the stock certificates and gold you took from Markheim. I'll leave them for the frame up." – Crowder [09:28]
• Shep Belden's Plight: Shep is quickly arrested after flashing unusual wealth and failing to explain its origin convincingly.
  • "Well, the sheriff didn't believe it. He accused Shep of stealing the gold." – Dan Reed [20:06]

3. Lone Ranger & Allies Investigate

• Initial Encounter: Tonto and Dan Reed attempt to camp near the outlaws but are rebuffed. They split up to find the Lone Ranger and observe developments in town.
• Clever Eavesdropping: The Lone Ranger and Tonto overhear Crowder’s full scheme of planting evidence and setting up Belden for the crime.
  • "Crowder, that’s the tightest frame up I ever heard of. On the strength of the evidence, a jury will hang old Shep for murder." – Jake [14:44]

4. The Search for True Justice

• Break-in at Markheim's Cabin: The outlaws search for hidden riches but only find more papers and some (seemingly) valuable cash. The Lone Ranger and Tonto intervene, briefly capturing the gang before being outnumbered and forced to retreat with the stash—unbeknownst to all, the “valuable” cash is worthless Confederate money.
  • "Hold it, both of you! You’re covered." – The Lone Ranger [23:32]
  • _"These men hope to steal from Markheim." – The Lone Ranger [24:41]

5. The Sting Triumphs: The Key to Justice

• Devising the Trap: By accident, the Lone Ranger leaves the hotel room key in Markheim’s cabin, which Crowder uses to find and confront the masked man. The Lone Ranger exploits this, setting up a sting operation in the hotel room with the sheriff, hotel clerk, and Markheim's lawyer listening in.
  • "That masked man left the key to this room for you to find." – Markheim [29:03]
• Crowder's Confession: Caught off guard, Crowder confesses to murder and framing Shep, unaware his words are overheard by the law.
  • "I wanted the sheriff, the hotel clerk, and Markheim's lawyer to hear everything you said, Crowder." – The Lone Ranger [28:37]
• Truth Revealed: The cash Crowder wanted is revealed to be Confederate paper money, utterly worthless.
  • "Let me show you what that cash is. It's confederate paper money, and it's worthless." – Markheim [29:12]

6. Resolution and Frontier Wisdom

• Crowder and His Men Arrested: The plot comes to an end as the sheriff arrests Crowder and his men.
• Shep Belden's Name Cleared.
• The Lone Ranger Rides On: Markheim admires the Lone Ranger’s wits.
  • "You weren't quite as smart as the Lone Ranger. Sam." – Markheim [29:42]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "You'll know what it is in a couple of minutes. Bring your horse inside this circle of rocks."
  — Crowder commands Pop Markheim during the ambush [07:03]
• "I used to know him very well, Dan. He's a fine man. I… Tonto, I wonder if it’s Markheim who’s been murdered."
  — The Lone Ranger suspects the worst for his friend [20:35]
• "If I send the sheriff here, he'll find Markheim's stocks and paper money. That, together with the fact that you're wearing a mask, will be enough to hang you for Markheim's murder."
  — Crowder tries to threaten and bargain with the Lone Ranger [26:58]
• "We’re all obliged to you three. You serve justice. ...But you weren’t quite as smart as the Lone Ranger."
  — Markheim summarizes the justice delivered [29:32–29:42]

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Important Segments & Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment | |--------------|--------------------------------------------------------| | 04:20-09:19 | Crowder’s gang plots and kills Markheim | | 09:28-14:50 | The plan to frame Shep Belden is revealed in detail | | 15:18-16:08 | Lone Ranger and Tonto vow to clear Belden | | 19:01-20:21 | Dan Reed explains Shep’s suspicious wealth & arrest | | 22:16-24:51 | Lone Ranger and Tonto confront outlaws in cabin | | 25:54-28:48 | The hotel room “sting” where Crowder confesses | | 29:12-29:42 | Markheim reveals the cash is worthless; justice wins |

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Tone & Style

The tone is brisk, suspenseful, and laden with the rich, evocative language of classic frontier drama. Each character’s dialog is direct and in keeping with the period’s Western archetypes—outlaw cunning, lawman resolve, and the Lone Ranger’s unwavering morality.

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Conclusion

"Key to Justice" exemplifies the Lone Ranger’s enduring legacy: standing on the side of the wrongfully accused, using cunning and keen observation to bring criminals to justice, and providing the audience with the satisfaction of good triumphing over evil—often with a clever twist. Genuine suspense, memorable performances, and a seamless blend of action and intellect make this a standout episode, especially in its newly restored clarity.

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Ready for the next thrilling ride? “Hi-Yo Silver, away!”

Transcript

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[Narrator]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Crowder]

Only pay for what you need@liberty mutual.com Liberty Liberty.

[Markheim]

Liberty.

[Crowder]

Liberty Savings. Very underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company Affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the old time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

Speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty Hio, Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Crowder]

Sam.

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, 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.

[Crowder]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Markheim]

Come on, Silver.

[Crowder]

Let's go. Big fellow. Are you, Silver?

[Markheim]

Away.

[Narrator]

The town of Elmville was surrounded by mountains in which men dug or panned the streams for gold. About one mile north of town, a group of large rocks made a crude enclosure large enough to hide several men and their horses. There were three men there. Squint Crowder had lived for the past six months in Elmville. Jake and Steve were newcomers.

[Crowder]

When we left jail, I told you boys I'd find some way to make quick money. Didn't I say that, Jake?

[Jake]

Yeah, Crowder, you sure did.

[Crowder]

Soon as we got your letter, Crowder, we knew you'd made good on your promise.

[Jake]

Tell us about this, Jake.

[Crowder]

There's not much to tell. Sometime today, an old galoot named Markheim will come along this trail. He's called old Pop Markheim.

[Jake]

He'll come alone.

[Crowder]

Yeah, we rob him. That's right. You think he'd be carry enough to make it worthwhile? Wait till I tell you about him. He used to own the general store in Elmville. He'd grubstake anyone who wanted to try his luck in the hills. Why, he gave away almost as much as he sold. It's a wonder he didn't go broke. He did. He had to sell his store and home to pay his debts. He left town and settled in a cabin in the hills about two miles north of here. That was several years ago. Since then, lots of the men he grub staked have struck it rich. Each one pays Markheim a share of the gold he takes from his claim.

[Jake]

That must amount to considerable. What's the old man do with all that gold?

[Crowder]

I'll tell you what I've learned and you draw your own conclusions. The gold is sent to a lawyer in town. Man named Bates. Was an old friend of Markheim.

[Jake]

Sent by the men who were grubstate?

[Crowder]

Yeah. Once a month, Markheim goes to town. He spends a couple of hours in the lawyer's office and he buys supplies at the store. Paying for them with gold. Then he goes back to his cabin. Passing by these rocks? Yeah, that's right.

[Jake]

Does he take the gold with him?

[Crowder]

He has no bank account in Elmville. And I know very well that his lawyer wouldn't keep a lot of gold in his office.

[Jake]

Then he keeps the gold in his cabin? That's what I say.

[Crowder]

What do you think, Steve? I think the same as Jake. Then we've all reached the same conclusion. He has the gold in his cabin.

[Jake]

Why don't we go to the cabin instead of waiting here?

[Crowder]

Then go there after dark when there's no risk of being seen by the prospectors in this vicinity. Then why do we stop? Mark? I'm here. I want him out of the way so he can't raise an alarm when we visit his cabin.

[Jake]

Looks like this place has been used for camp. There's ashes from a cooking fire.

[Crowder]

Someone's coming. Here, let me see. Move over so I can look between the rocks.

[Jake]

You see who it is?

[Crowder]

Markheim.

[Jake]

Is he alone?

[Crowder]

Yeah. I'll climb to where he can see me.

[Narrator]

Crowder ascended the rocky wall until the approaching horseman was in full view. Then he drew a gun and called Markheim.

[Crowder]

Rein in. You're covered. Don't try a fast move.

[Markheim]

Is this your stick up.

[Crowder]

You'll know what it is in a couple of minutes. Bring your horse inside this circle of rocks.

[Markheim]

What if I Refuse.

[Crowder]

I'll shoot.

[Markheim]

Well, don't get trigger happy, now. Do as you say.

[Dan Reed]

Yeah.

[Crowder]

You'll find an opening over there.

[Narrator]

Crowder held his gun steady and watched sharply while Markheim guided his horse around the rocks and through an opening.

[Crowder]

That'll do. Dismount.

[Markheim]

Three of you, huh?

[Crowder]

Search him, Jake. Right, Steve. You go through his saddlebag.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Crowder]

I'll dump him on the ground.

[Markheim]

I've seen you in town. The name is Crowder, isn't it?

[Crowder]

Yeah.

[Jake]

He's not packing a gun.

[Crowder]

Go through his pockets.

[Markheim]

If you're looking for money.

[Crowder]

We're looking for gold, Markheim. Oh.

[Jake]

Here. Summit. A couple of Double Eagles.

[Crowder]

$40.

[Markheim]

I brought that from town to pay a man who did some work on my cabin.

[Crowder]

Where's the rest of your gold?

[Markheim]

That's all I have.

[Crowder]

Don't lie. We know different.

[Markheim]

I'm not lying, Steve.

[Crowder]

What's in a saddlebag?

[Markheim]

Nothing but food.

[Jake]

And there's nothing else in his pockets except these papers.

[Crowder]

What are they? Stock certificates.

[Jake]

Railroad company, shipping, land.

[Crowder]

Markheim, every month you go into town, you collect a share of the gold from half a dozen claims.

[Markheim]

I collect just enough gold to buy food and supplies. All the rest of my dividends are invested in good stocks and bonds. Belaya Bates. That certificate your friend took from my pocket are the ones I picked up today. There's no point in stealing them because they're registered in my name. Not worth a dime to anyone but me.

[Jake]

I guess he's right. His name is on him.

[Markheim]

Tinhorn outlaws made a fool move when you decided to rob me. Now give me back my property.

[Crowder]

What'll we do, Crowder? Let him go. He'll turn us over to the law. We're not letting him go.

[Markheim]

Curt, you're not going to shoot me?

[Crowder]

No.

[Markheim]

Not for $40. You wouldn't do that.

[Crowder]

Sorry, Markheim, but we can't let you turn us over to the law. Wait.

[Markheim]

Give me that gun.

[Crowder]

Look out, boss.

[Narrator]

Markheim ceased his struggle for Crowder's gun and staggered back with a look of incredulity in his face. Then his eyes went glassy and he slumped to the ground.

[Crowder]

He's dead. He shouldn't have tried to take away my gun.

[Jake]

What's the difference, Crowder? You meant to shoot him anyway.

[Crowder]

I still think he was lying about not having any gold. So do I. I'd be willing to bet there's a fortune hidden in his shack.

[Jake]

Let's go and get it.

[Crowder]

Not in daylight. I told you before.

[Jake]

Yeah, yeah, that's so.

[Crowder]

You two get Rid of the body. Take his horse a long way into the hills and turn it loose.

[Jake]

Why don't you go with us, Crowder?

[Crowder]

Jake, you fool. We have a murder on our hands. I've got to do something about that. And what are you gonna do? I had it all planned out ahead of time. I'm gonna frame old Shep Belden for the murder. Give me the stock certificates and gold you took from Markheim. I'll leave them for the frame up.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, the three crooks rode away. Crowder went toward town while the others headed into the hills with the blanket wrapped form of the dead man tied across the saddle of his horse. That night, Jake and Steve were back inside the circle of rocks at a few minutes before 8 o'.

[The Lone Ranger]

Clock.

[Narrator]

Presently they heard approaching hoofbeats from the direction of town.

[Jake]

Maybe that's Crowder.

[Crowder]

That sounds like more than one horse, Jake.

[Jake]

Maybe he's bringing someone with him. Look through the crack and see.

[Narrator]

Steve peered between two of the massive boulders and saw the moonlit figures of two horsemen. He didn't know that they were Toto, the Lone Ranger's friend, and Dan Reed, the teenage nephew of the masked man.

[Crowder]

What do you see? Neither one is Crowder. One's a redskin, the other's a teenager.

[Jake]

Then keep quiet. They'll probably pass by.

[Crowder]

No, they're not passing by. They've left the trail.

[Narrator]

Jake and Steve drew their guns and listened to the clump of hoofs as the horses moved around the 40 foot circle of rocks to the opening on the side. Away from the trail. They advanced to meet the new arrivals.

[Jake]

What do you want here?

[Tonto]

We not know someone already here.

[Crowder]

You were asked what you wanted, Jolly.

[Dan Reed]

Mister, we just wanted to camp for the night.

[Crowder]

Not right.

[Tonto]

This plenty good camp place. We use it other times.

[Jake]

Well, we beat you to it. We're camping here. The vamos.

[Crowder]

What do we do, Tyler? We're supposed to. Dan.

[Tonto]

We go to town. Get him up. Scout.

[Crowder]

Come on, Victor.

[Narrator]

Tato and Dan Reed rode but a short distance in the direction of town. Then the Indian signaled a halt. Dan spoke first with concern in his voice.

[Crowder]

Galley Tahoe.

[Dan Reed]

We were supposed to meet the Lone Ranger in that campsite. If he doesn't find us there, he'll.

[Narrator]

Wonder where we are.

[Tonto]

Dan, you go to town. Get room in hotel. Stay there. Me go north to hiding place. Watch for mask friends.

[Crowder]

Good.

[Tonto]

Get him up, Scott.

[Crowder]

Come on, Vic.

[Narrator]

Totto cut from the trail and circled through the hills to meet his masked friend. While Dan Reed continued on the Route to town. He passed a single horseman traveling in the opposite direction. It was Crowder, heading toward the meeting place. The outlaw reached there at 8:00'.

[Crowder]

Clock. Oh, you're right on time, boy. Skinny. Everything is taken care of in town. What did you do with Markheim's body? We took it to a cave near Three Pines, and we turned his horse loose in the hills. Good. By the time it's found, the sheriff will already have the man to hang for the murder.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, Tato was some distance north of the camp, meeting the Lone Rangers.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, easy, said the big fella.

[Crowder]

Todo.

[The Lone Ranger]

I expected to find you in our campsite.

[Tonto]

A true fella are already there. So, Dan, go to town. Ingat Room Hotel.

[The Lone Ranger]

Wait there for us. You say two men are camped in that circle of rocks?

[Tonto]

That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

Strange that they'd camp there when the town is so near. Unless they want to avoid being seen in town. Do you know who they are?

[Tonto]

Me not know.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let's find out.

[Crowder]

Scout.

[Narrator]

Lone Ranger and Tono halted their horses some distance from the camp and completed the way silently on foot. As they neared the rocks, they heard voices and quickly realized that there are now three men behind the rocks instead of two.

[Jake]

Handled it Slick crowd, eh?

[Crowder]

You sure did, boss. I like to be on hand when the old bum tries to spend a $20 gold fee. It's more than he ever had in his life at one time. The sheriff is sure to ask where he got it.

[Jake]

He'll say a stranger gave him two such coins for holding a horse for 10 minutes. That'll sure lift the sheriff's eyebrows. It'll sound like the biggest lie a lawman's ever heard.

[Crowder]

That's the idea, Jose Crowder.

[Jake]

Suppose the sheriff asked the old man to describe the stranger who hands out double eagles.

[Crowder]

Before I met old Shep, I stopped at my place. I got into some fancy clothes I had in my trunk. A long tail coat and fancy vest. And some false whiskers I used in a couple of stagecoach robberies. When Shep describes that outfit, the sheriff will be dead certain he's lying. What do you think the sheriff's next move will be? I figure he'll search the room where Shep sleeps.

[The Lone Ranger]

Probably will, yeah.

[Crowder]

And there he'll find a couple of stock certificates I planted. The old man will have to say he doesn't know where they came from, but no one will believe him.

[Jake]

Crowder, that's the tightest frame up I ever heard of. On the strength of the evidence, a jury will hang old Shep for murder?

[Crowder]

Yeah, if a lynch mob doesn't hang him first. In either case, the murder will be considered solved and we'll be in the clear. I've got to hand it to you, Crowder. You're smart.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mighty smart.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger in Tono hurried silently away from the circle of rocks. As they moved toward the place where they had left their horses, the Indian.

[Tonto]

Said we go away and leave these fellow.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, Toto. We have no proof to take to the sheriff.

[Tonto]

Crooks maybe get way.

[Narrator]

I doubt it.

[The Lone Ranger]

They think they're safe. We know that one is named Crowder, but he lives in town. Have no trouble finding him when we want him.

[Tonto]

What we do?

[The Lone Ranger]

First we must try to clear Belden. You heard what the killers said about him.

[Tonto]

Ah, him framed.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, and he's likely to be lynched before the truth is known.

[Tonto]

Dan Reed in town. Maybe him here talk. Maybe him know what happened to old man?

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll find out. Steady, Silver. I'll wait at the edge of town while you locate Dan's hotel room. I'd like to get into it without being seen and questioned about my mask.

[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 minutes.

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Narrator]

Uh, limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Crowder]

Only pay for what you need@liberty mutual.com Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings vary Underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance company and affiliates. Excludes Massachusetts.

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[Narrator]

Satan Totto learned that Dan Reed had a rear room on the hotel's first floor. He Hurried to a woods where the Lone Ranger waited near the edge of town. The horses were left hidden there. The masked man followed Tonto through the darkness behind the hotel and entered Dan's room through a window. He closed the window, drew the shade, and then turned toward Dan and Toto.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Dan, we had a little trouble getting together.

[Dan Reed]

Golly, it's good to see you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good to see you, too. Nice room.

[Dan Reed]

It's more than that. It's two rooms.

[The Lone Ranger]

Two?

[Dan Reed]

Yes, sir. I had to rent a sitting room as well as this bedroom. This door opens into it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sweet. This is fine. Dan, does that door in the sitting room open into the hall?

[Dan Reed]

Yes, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll make sure it's locked.

[Dan Reed]

When Tano came here a few minutes ago, before he went to get you, he said a man named Shep Belden had been framed.

[The Lone Ranger]

We think so, Dan. Someone seems to have been killed.

[Dan Reed]

I saw part of it.

[The Lone Ranger]

You did?

[Dan Reed]

Yes, sir. After I settled in these rooms, I went to the cafe in the front part of the hotel to get something to eat. Shep was there. Everyone was talking about him.

[The Lone Ranger]

What was he doing?

[Dan Reed]

Well, he was offering to buy refreshments for everyone and waving a twenty dollar gold piece. Sheriff was there and he started asking questions.

[The Lone Ranger]

Questioning Belden?

[Dan Reed]

Yes, sir. Seems the old man never had much money. Sheriff wanted to know where he got $20.

[The Lone Ranger]

What did Shep say?

[Dan Reed]

He said a stranger gave it to him for holding a horse for a few minutes. Then he showed another $20 gold piece.

[Tonto]

No one believe old man get $40 for holding horse.

[Dan Reed]

Well, the sheriff didn't believe it. He accused Shep of stealing the gold.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then what happened?

[Dan Reed]

Well, the sheriff said he was going to go through Shep's sleeping room. He left with the old man. And then in about half an hour, when I'd finished my supper, Sheriff came back and told the men in the cafe that he'd locked Shep in jail.

[The Lone Ranger]

Do you know whether or not he found anything in Shep's room?

[Dan Reed]

Yes, sir, he did. He found some stock certificates that he said had been stolen from a man named Markheim. Shep denied knowing anything about them.

[Tonto]

You know Markheim Kimosabi?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Dan Reed]

Oh, you do?

[The Lone Ranger]

I used to know him very well, Dan. He's a fine man. I. Tonto, I wonder if it's Markheim who's been murdered.

[Tonto]

May not know.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, do you happen to know what the sheriff plans to do?

[Dan Reed]

Well, the last I heard, he told some men he'd ride into the hills tomorrow and call on Markheim.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, stay here and keep both Doors locked. Tonto, we're going to Markheim's house tonight.

[Narrator]

Lone Ranger and Toto left through the window and hurried to the woods where they had left the horses. There they paused to tighten the cinches.

[Crowder]

Why?

[Tonto]

We go to Markheim cabin, see if he's there.

[The Lone Ranger]

If he is, we'll talk to him. If not, we'll talk to Crowder and those men who are with him. Are you ready?

[Tonto]

What's the matter, Kimasabe?

[The Lone Ranger]

I brought the key to Dan's sitting room with me.

[Tonto]

Oh, that not matter. Dan still have key to bedroom.

[The Lone Ranger]

I must have put it into my pocket without thinking when Dan started telling what he knew about old Shep.

[Tonto]

We ready now? Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, said the big fellow.

[Crowder]

Scott.

[Narrator]

Easy.

[Tonto]

Thunder.

[Narrator]

Montoo, get him up.

[Crowder]

Scout.

[Narrator]

Desk. Destiny must have been at work when the Lone Ranger absentmindedly carried away the key to Dan Reed's sitting room. The masked man thought no more about it as he and Toddo headed north toward Markheim's mountain cabin. Meanwhile, Crowder and his companions were already at the cabin. Jake was hidden in the darkness to stand watch while Steve and Crowder searched inside by candlelight.

[Jake]

There's nothing here.

[Crowder]

There's a ladder leading to a loft. You might have a look up there. Prouder. We're taking a chance. The sheriff might come here after he finds those stock certificates you left at Belden's place. That's why Jake is outside. If anyone comes here, he'll know it. Now look in the loft.

[Narrator]

Search continued for some time. Loose floorboards were pried up. The loft was examined carefully from one end to the other. Every drawer and chest and box was searched thoroughly. Flagstones set in the floor before the fireplace were pulled loose. And then Crowder studied the rocks at the fireplace itself.

[Crowder]

I've heard of men having a secret hiding place behind a loose rock. Maybe one of these. Hey, that one. It moved. Maybe this is it. Want some help with it? No, I can lift it. Slides right out. Watch your toes. There seems to be an opening in back where that rock was. Find anything? I feel something. A bundle of some kind. I have it. Hurry up, Crowder. Unwrap that paper. Let's see what's inside. I'm sure of one thing. There's no gold in this package. Just some packets tied with string. Well, it must be something important. Or mark. I wouldn't hide it. Looks like more of those stock certificates. Wait. There's something else. Yeah, paper money.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll take it. Hold it, both of you. You're covered.

[Crowder]

Who are you? Where'd you come from?

[The Lone Ranger]

Skip the questions. Keep your hands away from guns. Take that package, tunnel and disarm them.

[Tonto]

Me take them?

[Crowder]

Now, listen, mister, we all seem to be after the same thing. Let's talk about a split.

[The Lone Ranger]

Toss the guns into the corner tunnel.

[Crowder]

I'm holding guns on you. Good work, Jake.

[Jake]

Here with a mask. Drop that gun. That's it. Now, engine. Drop that package.

[Crowder]

Well, I wondered where you were, Jake.

[Jake]

I was watching these two. Crowder, from the time they rode up.

[Crowder]

Keep them covered while I take the masked man's second gun. Steve, disarm the redskin.

[Dan Reed]

Yeah, right.

[Narrator]

Lone Ranger and Toto remained motionless until Steve and Crowder were close. Then they moved with lightning speed, shaping sideways in opposite directions. Jake fired too late. His bullet brushed the masked man's sleeve.

[Crowder]

Let go of me.

[Narrator]

Toto charged Steve and drove him against Jake. But two fell. Toto grabbed Jake's gun. The Lone Ranger swung a fist at Crowder's joint.

[Crowder]

You.

[The Lone Ranger]

That does it.

[Crowder]

Get up. Get off of me, Steve. Let me. I'm trying to.

[Narrator]

Stay where you are. The masked man that picked up the gun he had dropped. As he covered the men on the floor, a sudden idea came to him unnoticed. He slipped his free hand into his pocket, withdrew the key to the hotel room and held it concealed.

[The Lone Ranger]

Cover them, Toto. I'll get the packets. These men hope to steal from Markheim.

[Tonto]

Me watch him. Anyone move, me shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, let's clear out.

[Narrator]

No one noticed that the masked man left the room key on the floor. As he picked up the packets of stocks and paper money, he and Toto backed through the door, then closed it.

[Jake]

Steve, you fool.

[Crowder]

You let him jump here.

[Markheim]

Why didn't you hit him when you're shot?

[Jake]

Never mind that. Go and get water. The boss is out cold.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tonto hurried back to town and once more left their horses in the woods. Then they went to the home of the sheriff. The lawman was suspicious when he saw the mask. But the Lone Ranger soon won his confidence and his cooperation in carrying out a plan that was built around the key to Dan Reed's sitting room room. Though it was after midnight, an oil lamp burned in the sitting room. Most people in town had long since gone to bed. But the Lone Ranger and Tonto waiting in that room were wide awake. Presently, a soft tap sounded on the door.

[Tonto]

Maybe this what we wait for.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll open the door, Tono. You be ready for trouble. Me ready? Take it easy, Carter.

[Crowder]

Now listen, mister. I'm here, friendly.

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you want?

[Crowder]

I Want to talk to you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come in.

[Crowder]

Tell your engine pal to put away his gun. I'm not here to make trouble.

[Tonto]

Put it away, Teller.

[Crowder]

My pals know where I am. And if I don't join them in half an hour, they'll tell the sheriff what they know.

[The Lone Ranger]

What do they know?

[Crowder]

They know the number of your room.

[The Lone Ranger]

What about it?

[Crowder]

I reckon the sheriff would be mighty glad to know where he can find the man who stole Markimes cash and stocks.

[The Lone Ranger]

How did you find me?

[Crowder]

That was easy. You dropped your key while you were in Markimes cabin. I found it. The name of the hotel and the room number were stamped on it.

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you want?

[Crowder]

I'll lay my cards right on the table, mister. You robbed me.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're talking about Markime's currency in stocks.

[Crowder]

I went to a lot of trouble to find it. I figure I'm entitled to at least a part of it. I'll split the cash 50. 50 with you.

[The Lone Ranger]

What if I refuse?

[Crowder]

You're in no position to refuse, mister. If I send the sheriff here, he'll find Markheim's stocks and paper money. That, together with the fact that you're wearing a mask, will be enough to hang you for Markheim's murder.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wondered if you had murdered Markheim.

[Crowder]

His body will be found sooner or later in a cave near Three Pines.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see. Even if I split the currency with you, how do I know you'll not go to the sheriff about me?

[Crowder]

You'll have to take my word.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's not good enough. As you said, Crowther, someone was hang for Markheim's murder. If I'm found with a sheriff of the stolen stock and part of the currency, I'll be that man. I'd be much more interested in what you're saying if you could give me some assurance that I'd be in the clear.

[Crowder]

All right. I'll tell you this. There's already a man in jail who is suspected of that murder. Who? An old galoot named Shep Belden.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why is he suspected?

[Crowder]

Cause I arrange things. I framed them.

[The Lone Ranger]

The packets I took from you, Crowder, are right here in the table drawer.

[Crowder]

I thought they'd be in this room.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here they are. This one holds a stock certificate.

[Crowder]

I don't want those. That paper money is what I want.

[Tonto]

The door.

[Crowder]

Hold it. I've got a gun on you.

[Jake]

Well, with you, boss.

[Crowder]

I'm covering those two. Keep your hands up. Well, things are different this time, mister. Now, all three of us have guns on you and the Redskin.

[The Lone Ranger]

What does it mean, Crowder?

[Crowder]

Means we're taking the paper money.

[The Lone Ranger]

A double cross, huh?

[Crowder]

I'll call it that.

[The Lone Ranger]

You talked about a deal. Only so I'd bring out the Markheim packets. Your friends must have been listening in the hall. Could you hear through that door?

[Jake]

We heard every word.

[Crowder]

We could hear through the door. Just as if it was paper.

[The Lone Ranger]

I know that. I made sure of it.

[Narrator]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

I wanted the sheriff, the hotel clerk, and Mark Heim's lawyer to hear everything you said, Crowder.

[Jake]

What's he mean, boss?

[The Lone Ranger]

I wanted them to hear you admit the murder of Markheim and the framing of Shep Belden.

[Crowder]

And we heard it all, Sheriff. I'll get him. No.

[Markheim]

He get this way.

[Narrator]

Let go that gun.

[Crowder]

Hold it, or I'll bust your arm. You'll never get me alive.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Crowder]

Again. Stop.

[The Lone Ranger]

On your feet, Crowder. And up and face the music, Sheriff.

[Crowder]

You. You, the lawyer.

[Markheim]

All in the adjoining room, Crowder. And heard everything. You see, that masked man left the key to this room for you to find.

[Crowder]

What? He left it? Yep.

[Markheim]

Then he made off with the cash. And let me show you what that cash is. It's confederate paper money, and it's worthless.

[Crowder]

Why didn't you find that out, Crowder? I didn't say it good.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, we're not needed here any longer. We'll leave by way of the window as handed to our horses. Adios.

[Markheim]

Anything you do is all right with me, mister.

[Crowder]

Adios. Adios.

[Markheim]

We're all obliged to you three.

[Crowder]

We sure are.

[Markheim]

You serve justice.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks. Thanks a lot.

[Crowder]

Oh, that masked man. He.

[Markheim]

He figured you'd be just about smart enough to come here and try to get that cash. And you were just as smart as he figured. But you weren't quite as smart as the Lone Ranger. Sam.

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[Narrator]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

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[Crowder]

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[Andrew Rines]

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[Narrator]

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[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Crowder]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Fairy Underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Co. Affiliates excludes Massachusetts SAM.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Muir Incorporated and directed by Charles D. Livingston. Tonight's drama was written by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beame.

[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.

[Crowder]

Sam.