Looting of Lawrenceville | The Lone Ranger (03-30-53)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns: The Lone Ranger — “Looting of Lawrenceville”

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Airdate: March 30, 1953
Podcast Release Date: March 6, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored broadcast of "Looting of Lawrenceville" from The Lone Ranger series. The story centers on the cunning outlaw Lefty Scarsdale and his gang, who use a false telegram to lure the town’s lawmen away, leaving Lawrenceville defenseless for a daring midday heist. The Lone Ranger, his companion Tato, and Marshal Tom Bell must unravel the scheme, pursue the outlaws through mountain trails, and restore justice to the shaken frontier town.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. The Telegram Deception

• Setting: Lawrenceville, a rugged mountain town.
• Inciting Incident: Sheriff Jim White receives an urgent telegram, purportedly from Marshal Tom Bell (04:11), warning of Lefty Scarsdale’s gang and urging the formation of a posse.
• Quote:
  • Sheriff Jim White, flustered by the message:
    “Jumpin’ jackpots… Spread the word that they need a posse. A big one. I want every able-bodied man in town!” (06:12)
• Tato’s Suspicion: Tato, sensing something amiss, tries to warn the sheriff that the telegram might be a fake, but is repeatedly ignored (07:06, 07:33).

2. The Heist Unfolds

• Scarsdale’s Plot:
  • The telegram was forged. As the posse rides out, Scarsdale and his gang, watching from the hills, prepare to loot the now-unprotected town (08:44).
  • Quote:
    • Lefty to his gang:
      “That sheriff’s gonna be hopping mad when he learns the message was a fake. By that time, we’ll have cleaned out the Lawrenceville bank, the express office, and every other place that has a few dollars.” (09:02)
• Execution:
  • With only the town’s elderly and infirm left to resist, the outlaws easily overpower them and swiftly loot the town’s valuables (11:08).

3. The Lone Ranger & Marshal Bell Discover the Truth

• Revelation: Tato reports the fake telegram to Marshal Tom Bell and the Lone Ranger, who realize the ruse and immediately ride to Lawrenceville (09:56–11:03).
• Quote:
  • Marshal Tom Bell, upon learning he’d been impersonated:
    “I haven’t been there in weeks. But telegram signed, Marshal Tom Bell. Why should anyone use my name to send a fake message?” (10:19)
  • Lone Ranger connects the dots:
    “Maybe someone knew a message of that kind would take everyone away from Lawrenceville—and leave the town unprotected…” (10:43)

4. Loss and Pursuit

• Aftermath in Town:
  • The townsfolk, wounded and shaken, are tended to by the Lone Ranger and Tato (14:07).
  • Marshal Bell seeks witnesses, but the confusion leaves the gang’s trail uncertain (14:18–15:03).
  • Decision: Tato searches east, Lone Ranger searches west, and Bell rides to recall the posse, hoping to track down the gang (15:26).

5. Tracking the Outlaws

• Tato’s Capture:
  • Tato discovers the trail of the outlaws and signals the Lone Ranger with smoke, but is ambushed by Lefty and Speed, tied up, and threatened for answers (19:55–20:31).
  • Quote:
    • Lefty threatening Tato:
      “Why’d you build that fire? You’d better answer or I’ll crease your head with a gun barrel…” (19:59)
• The Lone Ranger’s Rescue:
  • Lone Ranger follows Tato’s trail, finds and frees him. In a tense melee, he outsmarts and incapacitates the outlaws (23:02–24:43).
  • Notable moment:
    • The Lone Ranger’s quick reflexes as gunfire erupts:
      “His gun barked a split second ahead of Speed and his silver bullet smashed the outlaw’s wrist.” (24:22)
  • The stolen money is recovered (25:25).

6. Cornering the Gang

• The Trap:
  • As the remaining gang members, growing uneasy with Lefty’s absence, follow his old trail, they stumble on a carefully laid trap by the returning posse and the Lone Ranger (27:48–28:54).
  • Quote:
    • Outlaw, realizing they’ve been outmaneuvered:
      “We walked right into a trap.” (29:22)
  • All outlaws are arrested.

7. Resolution and Reflection

• Justice Restored:
  • The townspeople and lawmen express their gratitude. Marshal Bell acknowledges the Lone Ranger’s key role and the earlier mistake of ignoring Tato’s warning (29:33–29:46).
  • Quote:
    • Marshal Tom Bell:
      “Next time a man wants to tell me something, I’ll be all ears.” (29:49)
• Final Note:
  • The legendary Lone Ranger rides off, his identity once again leaving townspeople in awe:
    “He’s on our side of the law. He sure is… He’s the Lone Ranger!” (30:16)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Sheriff’s Rallying Cry:
  “Spread the word that they need a posse. A big one. I want every able-bodied man in town!” (06:12, Sheriff Jim White)
• Scarsdale’s Boast:
  “By that time, we’ll have cleaned out the Lawrenceville bank, the express office, and every other place that has a few dollars.” (09:02, Lefty Scarsdale)
• Tense Interrogation:
  “Why’d you build that fire? You’d better answer or I’ll crease your head with a gun barrel…” (19:59, Lefty Scarsdale to Tato)
• Lone Ranger’s Leadership:
  “If you find fresh tracks, signal with smoke. I’ll do the same… Don’t undertake a single-handed fight against the Scarsdale gang.” (15:26–15:43, Lone Ranger)
• Posse's Regret:
  “Next time a man wants to tell me something, I’ll be all ears.” (29:49, Marshal Tom Bell)
• Classic Ending:
  “He’s on our side of the law. He sure is… He’s the Lone Ranger!” (30:16, Sheriff & Marshal)

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Important Timestamps

• 04:11 — Sheriff receives fake telegram
• 06:12–07:06 — Sheriff rallies posse; Tato’s warning is ignored
• 09:02–09:19 — Scarsdale’s gang observes posse’s departure, prepares heist
• 10:19–10:43 — Lone Ranger, Tato, and Tom Bell realize the ruse
• 11:08 — Lawrenceville is looted
• 14:07–15:01 — Aftermath and plans for pursuit
• 19:55–20:31 — Tato captured, threatened for information
• 23:02–24:43 — Lone Ranger rescues Tato, subdues outlaws
• 27:48–28:54 — Gang returns, falls into posse’s trap
• 29:33–29:49 — Reflection on trust and listening
• 30:16 — Lone Ranger’s legendary status reaffirmed

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Episode Tone & Style

The storytelling is vivid, suspenseful, and punctuated by classic Western dialogue and camaraderie. The tone alternates between humor, tension, and heroism—capturing the spirit of Old Time Radio’s golden age. The episode is brisk and action-packed, with the Lone Ranger’s unwavering sense of justice anchoring the narrative and lending it a timeless moral clarity.

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For Western and Old Time Radio fans, this episode stands out for its clever plot, rousing action sequences, and the enduring mystique of the Lone Ranger—restored here with digital clarity and respect for its roots.

Transcript

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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]

A fiery horse with the speed of light.

[Tato]

A cloud of.

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[Tato]

It.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion Tato, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the Plains led the fight for law and

[Sheriff Jim White]

order in the early Western United States.

[Narrator]

Nowhere in the pages of history can one find the 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.

[Tato]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Let's go big fella.

[Narrator]

In the town of Lawrenceville, a small community surrounded by high rugged mountains, Tottle stood beside his horse at the hitch rail in front of the general store. He packed recently purchased supplies in the saddle bag while Sheriff Jim White talked in a friendly manner.

[Sheriff Jim White]

You see, the mountains around here are mighty rugged. If a man doesn't know his way, he's likely to get lost and starved to death. He knows Sheriff. The Western Union man is calling to me. I wonder what he wants. Ah, him come running. Yes, and waving a message. Must be important. He looks excited. What are you, Spark?

[Tato]

Sheriff, we just received a message about Leslie Scarcity Caulfield.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Biggest crook who ever packed a gun.

[Narrator]

What about him?

[Tato]

Well, he and his gang of about 10 men are stuck up another bank. New rewards offered for his catcher. There's a total of nearly $10,000. Reward money for Scarsdale Dead relies.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hey, that's a heap of money. Where was his last stick?

[Tato]

Up in Greenville.

[Sheriff Jim White]

That's two days north of here in another county. It doesn't concern me.

[Tato]

But it does concern you, Sheriff. See, the United States Marshal says he thinks Garzale and his gang are heading this way in the hope of reaching the border. He wants you to organize a party traveled off from here to try to meet him.

[Sheriff Jim White]

The marshal wants me to organize a posse? Yeah, she's butch. Is that message addressed to me?

[Tato]

Yes.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Why didn't you give it to me? Here, let's have it.

[Tato]

Sir.

[Sheriff Jim White]

A fish of business like this, you should hand it over as soon as you get it.

[Tato]

Sorry, sir.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Jumping jackpots.

[Tato]

What's the matter?

[Sheriff Jim White]

Spread the word that they need a parsee. A big one. I want every able bodied man in town. Get the boys out of the cafe.

[Tato]

Hey, Sam. Jack. Beat everyone in town together in front of my office.

[Narrator]

Potto wondered what caused the sheriff to react so violently when he read the telegram. So instead of returning to the Lone Rangers camp as he had intended to do, the Indian waited in town until a crowd was assembled in front of the sheriff's office. He heard the sheriff tell about Leslie Scarville's gang and the bank robbery in Greenville.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hello, James. I've been asked to form a posse and head north to try to capture Lewis Crooks. Here's a telegram, Sam. One of the most celebrated United States marshals in the country. It's from Tom Bell. Yes, sir. Tom Bell. I reckon you've all heard of him. He's the man who helped us clean the crooks out of this town a few years ago. We're almighty in debt to him now. Here's our chance to help him out.

[Tato]

Now.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Spread the word to those who aren't here. Every man in town will want to do a favor for Tom Bell. Meet here in half an hour with guns and horses ready to travel. We'll start hunting the Scarsdale gang. Sheriff. He won't tell you. Now. Engine MB but you speak of Tom Bell. Kid, I can't talk to you now. I've got to arrange for grub for the poshee and get my horse saddled and take care of. There's another thing. Maybe you only want it. Oh, that rabbit.

[Tato]

Red skin.

[Narrator]

Let me go.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hey, Joe, wait for me. I want to talk to you about the food. Silly man, huh?

[Narrator]

During the next half hour, Tato tried several times to speak to the busy sheriff. But each time he was turned aside. He was still in town when the heavily armed men gathered in front of the sheriff's office with blanket bulls packed on their horses. He saw the sheriff, Sweary and the members of the party. Then the lawman said, we'll ride to

[Sheriff Jim White]

the mountains north of town, then break into small groups and fan out. Are you gents all set? Let's go.

[Tato]

We know. South.

[Narrator]

Bell. Tahoe's voice was drowned by hoofbeats. The Indian finally shrugged his shoulders, then mounted.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Scout shouted Scout.

[Narrator]

At that moment, Lefty Scarsdale and his gang were in the mountains east of Lawrenceville. Lestie and an outlaw called Speed were apart from the others. They were concealed by underbrush as they watched the sheriff's posse leave town.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Riding north just the way we wanted. Yeah, and they're carrying blankets, Lefty, so I reckon that plant will be gone for some time. I figured she, Sheriff White and the Lawrenceville men at Move if they thought they were helping Marshal Bell. That sheriff's gonna be hopping mad when he learns the message was a fake. By that time, we'll have cleaned out the Lawrenceville bank, the express office and every other place that has a few dollars. Hey, you took a lot of risks, Rusty. Hank's the only one that took a risk. He'd have been in trouble if the Greenville operator happened to return from lunch when he was sending the message. Is he gonna meet us at the hideout? Yes. We'll give him a full share of the loot.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

But we did him.

[Sheriff Jim White]

He's earned it. The men have left Lawrenceville, Boss. Isn't it about time for us to move in? Yeah. We'll join the rest of the boys and get ready. We'll attack in about an hour. By that time, the p will be too far north to hear the gunfire.

[Narrator]

On several occasions, Marshall Tom Barrel had been given valuable aid by the Lone Ranger. He and the masked man were good friends and were enjoying a rare opportunity for a visit in a small camp south of Lawrenceville. Tato reached the camp about one hour after leaving the town.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Marshal Bell.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

You were gone a long time, Toto.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Saddlebags of Belgium. You seem to have gotten the supplies we needed. Something wrong, Kimasabi.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

What is it?

[Sheriff Jim White]

By me in town. Sheriff get telegram from Greenville. Sign Tom Bell. What? It's a Scarsdale gang rob banks.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

One more crime against the Scarsdale gang.

[Sheriff Jim White]

I didn't know those crooks were in the Greenville area.

[Narrator]

And I didn't send a message.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Me cry tell sheriff, but him not listen. Me cry say message not true. Marshal Tom Bell not in Greenville. I haven't been there in weeks. But telegrams signed, Marshal Tom Bell. Every man in town glad to help Tom Bell. All men joined posse. Them ride north. Them Hoax leap crooks traveling south. Why should anyone use my name to send a fake message?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Maybe someone knew a message of that kind would take everyone away from Lawrenceville

[Sheriff Jim White]

and leave the town unprotected.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

It sounds like a trick that Lefty Scarsdale might try. We'd better saddle our horses.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Here's Hoover.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Otto, how long ago did the sheriff and his men leave Lawrenceville?

[Sheriff Jim White]

About an hour. If Scarsdale plans to raid the town, he may have already done so.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

The sooner we get there, the better.

[Narrator]

While the Lone Ranger and Tom Bell were saddling their horses, the Scarsdale gang rode into town with guns placed. The only man left in the community were those who, because of age or infirmity, had been unable to ride. With the sheriff's body, they put up a feeble resistance which was quickly crushed. The terrorist wicked women and children hid inside their homes. The looting was quickly accomplished. Within minutes, the outlaws were gone, taking with them all the cash that could be stolen without loss of time. After leaving the ravaged community, Scarsdale and his men rode east into the mountains over trails they knew. Presently, the leader signaled a halt.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Boys, this is where we part company. It'll be sometime tomorrow, maybe the next day, before the sheriff finds out what happened. Oh, he's going to be a mighty surprise downbreak and mighty mad. You think he'll be able to follow any tracks? I doubt it. But even if he does, he'll have trouble lit up, boys and take different trails. Go by our roundabout route to that shack on the other side of the mountains where we holed up last winter. We'll meet there. Oh, but before you go, hand over the cash.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Well, Lasty.

[Sheriff Jim White]

You mean you're gonna take it all? Yeah. Speed is fair enough with me. We'll be responsible for it. Well, how about splitting it up now? Don't you trust us, Dusty? Well, sure, but we've earned our share.

[Tato]

And you'll get it.

[Sheriff Jim White]

But now, not till I'm ready to hand it over. Electric cash feed. We'll all lose our money if something happens to you two. Nothing'll happen to us. There's plenty of time to whack it up. Now, Dusty, I don't aim to argue with you. I want to be sure you critters show up at the hideout. If you've got cash coming, I know you'll be there. You got all the cash feed? Yeah, all but what Dusty was can hand it over.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Dusty only want what's a comin to me, Lefty.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hand it over. Well, if the law should catch up to you and speed or if you'd have a accident. Well, you want what's coming to you, Dusty? Yeah. Well, here it is.

[Tato]

Go, go, go.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Anyone else want to argue? Not me. Got the cash feeds? Yeah, we got it. And the rest of you get going and wait for us at the hideout. Dusty was known as one of the gang. Lefty, we've seen it. We came this way. If his body's found, he'll bury the body. It'll take some time to dig a hole. We'll make it shallow. What's more, we've got plenty of time. Come on.

[Narrator]

In Lawrenceville, the people were still dazed and stunned by the attack when Tom Bell arrived with his two companions. Everyone knew and trusted the marshal, so no questions were asked about the man

[Sheriff Jim White]

who wore a mask.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto gave attention to the wounded while Tom Bell, seeking information, questioned many people. He rejoined his friends as the last bandage was being tied.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Oh, I'll be through in just a minute, Tom. Did you learn anything? Well, enough to be sure.

[Sheriff Jim White]

The raid was made by Scarsdale.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Which way did they go?

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hardly anyone saw them. Bullets were flying thick and fast. Nearly everyone ducked for cover and stayed away from doors and windows.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Someone must have seen them.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Well, one woman peeked out a window.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

She said she thought they headed west. And that should be the other woman

[Sheriff Jim White]

thought they headed east. So take your choice.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

There you are, old timer. Your arm will be as good as new in a couple of weeks.

[Tato]

Thanks, Doc.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I'm not a doctor.

[Tato]

Well, thanks anyhow. Thanks a lot.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

You're welcome, Tom. If we knew which way the crooks went, we might be able to pick up their trail.

[Narrator]

We were coming from the south.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We'd have seen them there, go in that direction. Sheriff, posse north of town?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Yes.

[Sheriff Jim White]

If Scarsdale knew it, he'd hardly go north.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Then the crooks must have gone either east or west.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Well, before we do anything else, we should get word to Sheriff Jim White and bring him and the other men back from their wild goose Chase.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Is there anyone in town you might send?

[Sheriff Jim White]

No, everyone who could ride for the Sheriff. It's no good for me to go. Sheriff not Listen to me Tom.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

You're the one who can convince the sheriff that they telegram with the fake. I guess you're right.

[Sheriff Jim White]

I'll go after them.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Well while you're gone, T and I'll try to find tracks for the outlaws. T you search the mountains east of here and I'll go in the opposite direction. If you find fresh tracks, signal with smoke. I'll do the same.

[Sheriff Jim White]

If you find tracks, come back here and wait until I return with the sheriff. Don't undertake a single handed fight against the Scottdale again.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

We'll see you later Tom.

[Narrator]

The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger adventure. Before the next exciting scene, please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

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[Sheriff Jim White]

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[Tato]

Ram.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. While the Lone Ranger rode west. Tom Bell went north to look for the sheriff and Tato headed into the mountains on the eastern side of town. The Indian soon found fresh tracks of several horses and followed them to the place where Dusty had been shot.

[Sheriff Jim White]

He sent sign to Kimasabi. Get him off.

[Tato]

Count.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Leslie.

[Narrator]

Scarsdale and Speed were resting their horses when.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Speed. Look over there, above that other peak.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Smoke.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Suppose any of our boys were foolish enough to build a fire that smokes Like a man would have to pile damp leaves on a fire to make that much smoke, he'd have to do it on purpose. Speed, that fire is some kind of a signal.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

But who will?

[Tato]

Come on.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We'll find out more about it. Study the boy.

[Tato]

Come on.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Get up here.

[Narrator]

On a mountain peak selected by Toto for the purpose of signaling the Lone Ranger the smudge fire was nearly burned out. The Indian was absorbed in building another fire when suddenly.

[Tato]

Huh?

[Sheriff Jim White]

What's this? You're covered. Take your pipe and gun, Speed.

[Tato]

Right.

[Sheriff Jim White]

What's this mean? What are you up to, Injun? Who you signaling? Me build campfire. Is that wrong? Campfire, my eye. You build a smudge fire and you're about to start another. Who are the smoke signals for? Me not talk. You'd better answer or I'll crease your head with a gun barrel. Why'd you build that fire? Me not talk? I warned you. That's just a stock. Get up and talk or I'll give you some more. Hold his feet. Unconscious? I've dealt with stubborn Injuns before. He's probably playing Parsons.

[Tato]

Get up.

[Sheriff Jim White]

He's really out. Put a bullet through him. Now, wait. I want to know why he was sending those smoke signals. Tie him and we'll take him with us. All right, Lefty, you're the boss. We'll tie him to the back of his horse. Should be conscious by the time we camp for the night. Then we'll try again to make him talk.

[Narrator]

From a mountain on the opposite side of town the Lone Ranger saw Tato's signal rising high into the sky. He immediately abandoned his own search for tracks and headed in that direction. On the way to join his Indian friend, the masked man rode into Lawrenceville. He saw one of the townsmen whose wound he had bandaged and drew reins.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Oh, easy. Pity.

[Tato]

Hi there, Doc. My Arm feels fine. There's every time when I can do something for you.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

That time is right now.

[Tato]

Yes.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I want you to give a message to Marshal Tom Bell when he returns with the sheriff's posse shooting.

[Tato]

What's the message?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Tell him the Scarsdale Gang went east. Up lays a trail that can be easily followed.

[Tato]

I'll sure tell him that. When do you reckon he'll be back?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Well, I don't know.

[Narrator]

But whenever he comes, give him that message.

[Tato]

Count on me.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Thanks.

[Narrator]

Totto had left a plain trail, but the Lone Ranger made it even easier to follow. As he rode deeper into the mountains, he blazed the trunks of the trees he passed by cutting off sections of bark. It was twilight when he reached the place where Dusty had been shot and darkness was closing in when he drew rein on the peak beside the cold remains of Tahoe's signal fire.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Those are both easy.

[Narrator]

Sitting up, he dismounted and studied the

[Marshal Tom Bell]

ground closely in the fading light, two men came here.

[Narrator]

In addition to the tracks of Speed and Lefty, the masked man saw a peculiar scuff mark made by Tato's foot sign.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Let me know he was captured. He just said he'd been collapsed.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

In the darkness, the masked man had to trust the instinct of his horse. Instead of darting Silver, he held the reins loosely and spoke frequently in a low voice.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Fine tunnel, fine scout.

[Narrator]

It was the middle of the night when he saw a low burning campfire some distance ahead.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Stay here, Silver.

[Narrator]

Leaving his horse at ground hitch, the Lone Ranger advanced on foot and presently saw two men sleeping beside the small fire and Tahoe gagged and tied to a nearby tree. As he cautiously removed the gag, he noticed that his friend had been beaten.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Are you all right, Tahoe? Can you walk?

[Narrator]

Tahoe nodded. The Lone Ranger watched the sleeping outlaws while he released his friend. But his attention was momentarily diverted when Tahoe suddenly staggered and slumped to the ground.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I'll help you todo.

[Narrator]

In that instant, Lefty Scarsdale wakened, saw what was happening and shouted.

[Tato]

Speech. Wake up.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger charged while Lefty was

[Marshal Tom Bell]

reaching for his gun.

[Tato]

Now, aren't you Lefty, mask man. He freed the ratkin. Give me a hand.

[Narrator]

The leader of the outlaws shook off the Lone Ranger's blow and threw his powerful arms around the masked man in a bear like grip. Swing him around.

[Tato]

I'll crack his head. I'm trying to.

[Narrator]

Weakened by what he had endured, TTO lay on the ground and watch the fight but could not muster the strength to help his friends.

[Tato]

If I could only get a no no, don't shoot. You might hit me. Use your gun as a club and make it fast. The critter's slippery as an evil.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger knew that he was fighting for his life as well as the life of Cotto. He struggled in the outlaw's grip, twisting and cunning to keep Lesie between himself and Speed. Finally, he got one arm free and drove a lightning jab into the outlaw's stomach. Doubled over as the Lone Ranger stepped back, he dropped one hand to his holster and fired from the hip. His gun barked a split second ahead of sp and his silverboard smashed the outlaw's wrist.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

That changes things.

[Tato]

Lefty.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Lefty's busted my arm.

[Tato]

Don't kill him. You're too slow, Lefty.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Here's another. His hands are too busy trying to protect his face.

[Narrator]

Two more blows from a masked man's fist sent Leslie staggering back. And a final blow against the chin drove him to the ground, unconscious.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Now I'll deal with you.

[Tato]

Oh, no.

[Sheriff Jim White]

He already smashed my arm.

[Tato]

Wait.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Listen, mister.

[Tato]

Listen.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

What did you do to my friend?

[Tato]

Go lick on me. Talk. We. We just tried to make him tell

[Sheriff Jim White]

who we were sending smoke signals to.

[Tato]

He's all right. I swear.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We didn't hurt him permanent.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Where's the money you stole in Larsville?

[Tato]

I. I can't tell you.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

You may change your mind when you regain consciousness.

[Narrator]

The masked man quickly took all weapons away from the two unconscious men and hurried to the side of Toto. Toto, will you be all right?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I try.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Those cooks me all right. Kim not hurt bad. Them hit me like you hit them, only more Time may be all right, little one.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Do you know what they did with the stolen money?

[Sheriff Jim White]

It's here in camp, in Saddlebag.

[Tato]

Oh.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Where's the rest of the gang?

[Sheriff Jim White]

Me not know. But them talk about hideout. Rest of the gang go there, wait for money.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

But you don't know where the hideout is.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Me not know.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

All right. Let's lie there and rest. We're fly rope. Left in his partner,

[Narrator]

Totto regained his strength while the Lone Ranger attended to Speed's wound and tied both of the unconscious outlaws. Lefty was the first to open his eyes. He saw the Indian and the masked man watching him closely.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I'm glad you're conscious, Lefty. I have some questions to ask you.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Who are you?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I did not ask the questions.

[Sheriff Jim White]

I'm not talking.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Where's the rest of your gang?

[Sheriff Jim White]

You'll heard me.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Where's your hideout?

[Sheriff Jim White]

I said I wasn't talking. Go ahead and do what you want.

[Tato]

You can find.

[Sheriff Jim White]

I'm just as stubborn as that Indian.

[Narrator]

Other crook.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Wake up now, King. My sorry. Good.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Come on, wake up. I want to question you.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Who?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

That's it.

[Tato]

Don't hit me.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Can talk.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Where'd the gang hide us?

[Sheriff Jim White]

You can't tell what he doesn't know. You don't know where the hideout is, do you, Speed? You couldn't tell the masked man if you wanted to. No, that's what I. I don't know where it is. Maybe me work on him. Kimasabi. Me find out if him tell truth.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

No, Toto, that's not our way. It's not important for us to find

[Sheriff Jim White]

that hideout, but rest outlaws there.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Yes, I know they are. But I doubt if they'll stay.

[Narrator]

Daybreak found the other members of the gang assembled in the hideout. At noon, when Lefty and Speed had not arrived with the money, the men became restless and there was some speculation. Do you think he and Speed double

[Sheriff Jim White]

crossed us and cleared out with the cash? If they did, they're asking for sudden death. Maybe something's happened to him. Maybe they were captured.

[Narrator]

The restlessness increased with every passing moment. After an hour more of waiting, one of the men said, boys, I don't

[Marshal Tom Bell]

think the boss would double cross us.

[Sheriff Jim White]

He's never done a thing like that and something must have happened to him at Speed. If I had any idea which trail they'd take to get here, I'd go looking for him. I know the trail left he took the last time he came here from the mountains. Chances are he used the same roof. Well, then, let's go see if we can find out what's happened.

[Tato]

Come on. Come on.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We'll tread the horses.

[Narrator]

In minutes, the worried outlaws were in the saddle. They followed the man who knew the route that had been used by Lesty to reach the hideout on a previous occasion. After several hours of riding, one of the men suddenly called.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Boys, I smell wood smoke. There's a fire nearby. I see a campfire in the clearing up ahead. Maybe that's where Lefty and Speed are.

[Narrator]

I don't know why they'd wait in camp.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hey, looks like a couple of men are sleeping in blankets near that fire.

[Narrator]

We'll find out.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Get up there.

[Tato]

Come on.

[Narrator]

In another moment, the outlog rode into

[Sheriff Jim White]

the clearing and drew rein.

[Narrator]

As they dismounted, they saw that the figures near the fire were completely covered by blankets.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Now pull aside the blanket.

[Tato]

See who's underneath. It's Lusty and he's gagging. Hog tired. They're all covered, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Gun arrest DeMarco.

[Tato]

Let him have it,

[Sheriff Jim White]

old Winger.

[Narrator]

The sheriff and the marshal were ready. They opened fire as the outlaws went for their guns. There was more shooting from unseen men who were hidden among the trees and bushes which nearly surrounded the clearing. The crooks soon learned they were outnumbered.

[Tato]

Open fire. I quit. My leg is busted. Don't shoot again.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Throw down your gun.

[Tato]

All right, that is it. Come on out, boys. Look at him. Old Dan Town must be here.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

All of us.

[Tato]

You can ride.

[Sheriff Jim White]

You men have ropes use to tie these outlaws? Feature tied them as tightly as a mask. Man bound left hand speed. We walked right into a trap.

[Tato]

That's right.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We've been waiting here for you since noon.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

I hoped you would arrive with a Sheriff Ms. Posse before these crooks came to see what had happened to their leader.

[Sheriff Jim White]

We're sure obliged to your mask friend, Marshall Bell. It hadn't been for him.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

No. Hollow tried to tell you that the telegram was a fake.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Yes, I know. I know he did.

[Tato]

That.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Was too doggone busy to listen.

[Narrator]

The marshals raked me over for it.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Next time a man wants to tell me something, I'll be all he is.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Hey, I hope your engine friend will be all right.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Be all right?

[Marshal Tom Bell]

You were due way back with the horses.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Oh, me? All right now, Kabi. Me bring Scout Silver.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

All right, Tono. We meet again, Tom. Sure enough.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Thanks again, missy.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

Glad we could help, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Hey, what's the idea of roving us and letting that masked man walk away scot free? You ordinary poor catch. He's on our side of the law. He sure is.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

He's the Lone Ranger.

[Tato]

Sam,

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

I'm here on the job site with Dale who's a framing contractor.

[Tato]

Hey, good morning.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

Dale traded up to Geico Commercial Auto Insurance for all his business vehicles. We're here where he needs us most.

[Sheriff Jim White]

Yep, they sure are.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

We make it easy for him to save on all his insurance needs all in one place with coverage that fits his business and bottom line. Oh, I shouldn't have looked down.

[Sheriff Jim White]

It's all right.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

We're so far up here.

[Tato]

Look at me.

[Safeway/Albertsons Announcer]

Take a deep breath. I'm good. So good.

[Narrator]

Get a commercial auto insurance quote [e-mail] and see how much you could save.

[Marshal Tom Bell]

It feels good.

[Blinds.com/ZipRecruiter Announcer]

To Geico,

[Tato]

Sam.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trundle, produced by Trundle Campbell Muir Incorporated and directed by Charles D. Livingston. Tonight's drama was written by Twan Striker. The part of the Lone Ranger is

[Tato]

played by Ray Fellow 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 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 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.

[Tato]

Sam.