Moffet’s Move | The Lone Ranger (02-04-42)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns — "Moffet’s Move" (The Lone Ranger, 02-04-42)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Title: Moffet’s Move | The Lone Ranger
Release Date: January 20, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored broadcast of The Lone Ranger from February 4, 1942. In “Moffet’s Move,” the Lone Ranger and Tonto intercept a perilous plot orchestrated by the secretive Legion of the Black Arrow to ambush an army detachment led—or so they think—by Colonel Moffet. The Lone Ranger’s identity, a mysterious ring, and an urgent race through the wilderness add layers of suspense, with the fate of the army’s men and the broader Western frontier hanging in the balance.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Threat of the Legion of the Black Arrow

• The narrator establishes a post–Civil War setting, framing the Black Arrow as a clandestine organization with ambitions of revolt and despotism.
  • Quote: “A powerful secret organization called the Legion of the Black Arrows sprang up in the western United States. Its members were to be found everywhere, defying the law or using the law for their own purposes.” (02:38)

2. Midnight Camp Intrusion — A Secret Mission Unfolds

• The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and Tonto detecting an intruder at their camp by the absence of cricket sounds and Silver’s warning:
  • Quote: Tonto: “Cricket, katydid stop sound when man come near.” (03:58)
• The intruder, Amos, turns out to be a messenger tasked with delivering a letter after confirming the Ranger’s identity by a special ring.
  • Memorable exchange:
    • Lone Ranger: “You better have a good reason for sneaking up this way. What do you want?”
    • Amos: “You. That’s all. ... I was only trying to get close enough to see if you was wearing a ring on your finger.” (04:52–05:05)

3. The Urgent Message — An Army Ambush Planned

• The message warns: Colonel Moffet’s troops are to be ambushed in the Powder River woods. The Lone Ranger and Tonto set out immediately to avert disaster.
  • Quote: The Lone Ranger: “This good friend is the most dangerous task you’ve ever had. An army may depend on your success.” (06:43)
• Amos is recruited to help and pressed for details—he reveals the mysterious woman who orchestrated the message, indicating her intelligence network is strong.
  • Quote: “She certainly is well informed.” (07:48)

4. The Unknown Woman’s Role — The Ring’s Secret

• Shortly after, Amos meets the woman, confirms his message was delivered, and discusses Colonel Moffet’s absence from the army detachment.
• She learns a captain is in charge, not the colonel—a complication that could spell disaster if the lone Ranger can’t convince the captain of the trap.
  • Quote: Girl: “The captain may not know the Lone Ranger. He might think the mask means outlaw. He might put the Lone Ranger under arrest.” (10:28)
• She gives Amos an urgent secondary mission:
  • Quote: Girl: “Get word to the Lone Ranger. Tell him to open the ring. Remember that. Open the ring.” (11:04)

5. Amos’s Grueling Ride and Capture

• Amos rides all night to deliver the message, but is intercepted by outlaws in the woods and tied to a tree, despairing over his failure.
  • Quote: Amos: “I failed him. Maybe they've got their own Ranger prisoner too.” (14:01)

6. The Lone Ranger’s Attempt to Warn the Army

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto reach the army camp, only to discover Colonel Moffet is absent. Captain Blake, suspicious of masked men, demands the Lone Ranger unmask.
  • Memorable exchange:
    • Captain Blake: “If you were what you claim, a friend of the army, you’d be quite willing to submit to arrest, unmasking and investigation.” (19:52)
    • The Lone Ranger: “Captain, there are reasons you can’t possibly understand why I cannot be unmasked.” (20:01)

7. Standoff and Flight — Desperate Measures

• Blake orders the Lone Ranger arrested; the Ranger draws his guns and seizes the captain as a hostage to force his way into the woods, intent on proving the threat is real.
  • Quote: The Lone Ranger: “Much as I hate to. I'm leaving and you're coming with me. … Fire and you’ll hit your captain. Hold your fire!” (20:20–20:33)

8. The Final Confrontation — Battle with the Black Arrow

• In the woods, the Lone Ranger uses himself as bait, drawing enemy fire so the soldiers are convinced. Captain Blake finally realizes the truth.
  • Quote: “Do you think he was telling the truth?” “Let me listen. … Someone said, get the Lone Ranger. … The Black Arrow pay handsome. I heard that.” (23:46–24:00)
• The army emerges to fight the Black Arrow outlaws, scattering them and securing victory.

9. The Ring’s Secret Revealed

• Post-battle, Amos delivers the mysterious message: “Open the ring.” The Lone Ranger discovers a hidden compartment in the ring.
  • Quote: The Lone Ranger: “There it is. There’s a secret compartment here.” (26:08)
  • Inside is a message: “This message will assure anyone who sees it that the bearer is acting at the personal request [of the] President.” (26:44)
• The authority and legitimacy conferred by the ring explain the woman’s plan and ensure the Lone Ranger’s credibility in urgent situations.

10. Epilogue — The Elusive Ally

• Amos wishes to thank the woman, but the Lone Ranger predicts she’ll disappear, remaining in the shadows until needed again.
  • Quote: Lone Ranger: “I think she’ll drop out of sight until she’s needed again. Good luck, Lone Ranger. Adios.” (27:09)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the Silence of the Night:

  • Tonto: “Cricket, katydid stop sound when man come near.” (03:58)

• Unique Detailing:

  • The Lone Ranger: “A ring? What do you know about a ring?” (05:05)

• Amos’s Frustration (Comic Relief):

  • “Mister, tell this redskin that my neck breaks easy, will ya? Stop dragging me. I’ll come.” (04:28)

• The Lone Ranger’s Integrity:

  • “Captain, there are reasons you can’t possibly understand why I cannot be unmasked.” (20:01)

• Epitome of Heroic Sacrifice:

  • “My life doesn’t matter. The life of your troopers is what counts. They must not be massacred. They must carry on.” (21:53)

• The Big Reveal:

  • The Lone Ranger: “There it is. There’s a secret compartment here... This message will assure anyone who sees it that the bearer is acting at the personal request of [the] President.” (26:08–26:44)

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Timestamp Guide for Key Segments

• Introduction of the Black Arrow: 02:38
• Camp Intruder & Ring Identification: 03:31–06:02
• The Girl’s Secondary Mission: 09:32–11:09
• Amos Captured in the Woods: 12:09–14:01
• Lone Ranger at Army Camp (Standoff): 16:22–20:35
• Lone Ranger Seizes Blake: 20:09–20:44
• Battle with the Black Arrow: 24:00–25:28
• The Ring’s Secret Revealed: 26:00–26:44
• Conclusion & Farewell: 27:03–27:16

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Episode Tone & Style

Classic, suspenseful, and crisp, filled with vivid soundscapes and rapid-fire dialogue. The Lone Ranger remains stoic and heroic, Tonto resourceful, and Amos provides comic relief and relatable awe. The tone alternates between high-stakes tension and moments of warmth or lightness, characteristic of Golden Age radio Westerns.

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In Summary

“Moffet’s Move” delivers a thrilling tale of loyalty, secret societies, and the fine line between lawman and outlaw, with the Lone Ranger and his allies racing against time and suspicion. The mysterious woman’s ring, the desperate rides, and the final confrontation encapsulate the mythic grandeur of the Old West radio tradition—restored here in sparkling audio detail for modern listeners.

Signature sign-off:
“Hi-yo Silver! Away!”

Transcript

[Amos]

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 hi O.

[Amos]

Silver. The Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

During the years of unrest that followed the Civil War, a powerful secret organization called the Legion of the Black Arrows sprang up in the western United States. Its members were to be found everywhere, defying the law or using the law for their own purposes, working toward the ultimate goal of revolt and the foundation of a despotic empire. It was the masked rider of the plains who led the fight against this band of outlaws and traitors. And for once, his great strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness were taxed to the utmost in the cause of democracy. Return with us now to those thrilling days in the West.

[Amos]

We. Jean.

[Narrator]

From out of the past come the thundering hoop beats of a great horse. Silver, the Lone Ranger rides again.

[The Lone Ranger]

One Silver from the tail of my cow.

[Amos]

One Silver away.

[Narrator]

The small fire in the Lone Ranger's camp in the woods had burned to glowing embers when the masked man wakened. He was unable to decide for the moment the reason for his waking. Then he noticed that Tonto had roused too. And though motionless, was keenly alert.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's Silver's warning. Taro. Someone is nearby. Me no.

[Amos]

Me listen.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me not hear sound. I don't hear anything.

[Narrator]

Not even cricket.

[The Lone Ranger]

That bant sign.

[Narrator]

Cricket katydid stop sound when man come near. The Indian slipped from his blankets and with typical cunning, squirmed along the ground for the thicket. And suddenly he leaped to his feet and Sharp.

[Amos]

Got him. Hey. Look out. Don't you.

[Narrator]

You watch for others.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good work. Tunnel.

[Amos]

And you're biting my neck the way you hold me.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm ready for anyone else.

[Amos]

I'm alone. Mister. Tell this redskin that my neck breaks easy, will ya? Stop dragging me. I'll come.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me got this feller. Don't be too rough until we find out who he is.

[Amos]

I'm a friend. I don't mean no harm. God.

[The Lone Ranger]

I let him go. Tonto. He won't get away now.

[Amos]

My sakes of life. I most stove in from the way Tonto cackled me.

[The Lone Ranger]

You better have a good reason for sneaking up this way. What do you want?

[Amos]

You. That's all. Go on. Dad. Rabbit, I didn't mean no harm. I was only trying to get close enough to see if you was wearing a ring on your finger.

[The Lone Ranger]

A ring? What do you know about a ring?

[Amos]

I was told to be careful and to make no mistake. And if you didn't have a ring? I was to sneak away again. Fine chance I'd have to get away. Does that engine have eyes in the dark?

[The Lone Ranger]

Who sent you here?

[Amos]

Now that don't enter into it at all. You're the Lone Ranger. You wouldn't be wearing the ring. I can see it now in what light there is. What's more, no one but Tonto could have took me like I was tooken. I'm satisfied that you're the right party.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get to the point.

[Amos]

I will. I will. Just tell Tonto not to treat my poor neck like it was a pump handle. All I'm to do is to make sure you wear the ring that you didn't get the chance to return to to a certain party. Then hand you this here a letter.

[The Lone Ranger]

A letter? Why didn't you say so in the first place?

[Amos]

It is.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where did you get this?

[Amos]

A couple hours back in town. That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

How did you know where to find us?

[Amos]

Now look at here. I can't answer a lot of questions. I was.

[The Lone Ranger]

How did you find us?

[Amos]

Well, tell. I will tell you. She rode with me to the edge of the woods, then told me to follow her trail till I see the light of your campfire. Which I done. She left rid off toward the north.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's some more wood on the fire, Tono. Light enough to read out of your hand, Tunder. Sorry about your neck.

[Amos]

Oh, that's all right. Under a reason. I reckon I'll have something to brag about to the boys when I tell.

[The Lone Ranger]

Them that the pardon or the Lone.

[Amos]

Ranger like to tie a knot in me. I sure shooting hate to have you.

[Narrator]

Really mad that brush make quick fire light.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's enough, fellow. I can read. This good friend is the most dangerous task you've ever had. An army may depend on your success.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Somewhere in the woods felt Powder river woods are very large. There are hills and valleys.

[The Lone Ranger]

Colonel Moffet's troops now well enter the woods. An ambush is planned. Colonel Moffat's troops. Ambush.

[Amos]

Hello.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, what we do? Break camp at once. We're through with rest and sleep. We've got to ride again and faster than ever before.

[Amos]

Great day in the morning.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here, Silver. Ready, boy. Steady. Steady there while we saddle up.

[Amos]

What can I do to help?

[The Lone Ranger]

Roll up that blanket and hand it.

[Amos]

Here as your thing.

[The Lone Ranger]

T. Leave the canteens aside. We'll empty them on our fire.

[Amos]

Here's the blanket. Thanks. Now, one minute.

[The Lone Ranger]

You said you saw the light of our fire. That fire was mighty well concealed. What kind of eyes do you have?

[Amos]

Well, I didn't exactly see it. The girl gave me pretty definite instructions. I know this would, you see. And she said you'd be near Overhang Rock.

[The Lone Ranger]

She certainly is well informed. Ready, Tuttle? All but fire. Put it out. Yes. Then we'll ride.

[Narrator]

When the Lone Ranger and Tonto left the camp, the man who had brought them the girl's message watched and listened until he could no longer hear the hoof beat of the horses. And he started back to town on the aged horse he'd left. At the edge of the woods he saw a figure on horseback in front of him he noticed that it was a girl.

[Girl/Ma'am]

I circled back after I left you, Amos. I wanted to be sure you delivered the letter.

[Amos]

I sure did, ma'. Am. Now if there's anything else I can do, you just name it.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Did the man you gave it to have the ring on his finger?

[Amos]

Yeah, he's well on his way by this time. Good. Thanks a lot cracking this. Don't thank me. I'm the one to thank you. Wait till I tell the Colonel that I met up with an old Ranger. Last time I see him, he was telling me about that masked man.

[Girl/Ma'am]

The Colonel?

[Amos]

Uh huh. He's a sort of distant relative of mine. Third cousin or something of the sort.

[Girl/Ma'am]

I'll ride back to town with you, Amos. I thought I'd better meet you and make sure you deliver the message.

[Amos]

I can hardly wait till the day after tomorrow when the colonel gets to town. That'll be nice. Yep. Had a letter from him last week and said it was coming by stage. It's been a long time since we seen one another. Fact is it's been five years when I left his cavalry on account of getting on in years.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Is he still in the cavalry?

[Amos]

Sure is. Fine soldier too. Reckon they don't make him no finer. Give him another five years and he'll make the name of Moffat mean something in the West. What's that? Huh? Why? Why are we stopping?

[Girl/Ma'am]

What did you say the colonel's name was?

[Amos]

Colonel Moffat. Why, you heard of him?

[Girl/Ma'am]

Isn't he with his troops north of Powder River?

[Amos]

No, the troopers are there, but the captain's in charge. The colonel's been east on some special business. Why, what's the trouble, miss?

[Girl/Ma'am]

Are you sure the colonel has been east?

[Amos]

Sure, I'm sure. What about her? Listen to me.

[Girl/Ma'am]

You said you'd been a soldier.

[Amos]

I was. Oh, it's a good un too, if I do say so myself.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Then you've got to help me further. The army needs you again.

[Amos]

Huh?

[Girl/Ma'am]

There's a big woods between here and Powder River.

[Amos]

I know that woods. It's big and sprawling over mountains and valleys.

[Girl/Ma'am]

A huge gang is there waiting to ambush Colonel Moffat's men.

[Amos]

Don't say. Why, the ornery coyotes. Moffat's men, you say? Yes.

[Girl/Ma'am]

They're going to come through the woods to get here. This is to be their new station.

[Amos]

I didn't know that.

[Girl/Ma'am]

The letter you took to the Lone Ranger told about the ambush. The Lone Ranger is riding to warned Colonel Moffat. But you say a captain is in command now.

[Amos]

Sure, I tried.

[Girl/Ma'am]

The colonel would know the Lone Ranger. He'd listen to him. Believe what the Lone Ranger said?

[Amos]

Sure.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Let me give him command. The captain may not know the Lone Ranger. He might think the mask means outlaw. He might put the Lone Ranger under arrest. If the Lone Ranger can't convince the captain that there is a trap in the woods, the whole detachment might be wiped out.

[Amos]

We gotta do something about that. Just you Say what and I'll do it.

[Girl/Ma'am]

You've got a ride. Ride hard and long and try to overtake the Lone Ranger.

[Amos]

Overtake him?

[Girl/Ma'am]

Hopeless, though it seems. You've got to try. If you can't overtake him, you'll have to keep going until you meet the troops. Tell the captain.

[Amos]

Oh, wait.

[Girl/Ma'am]

There's one thing. The ring.

[Amos]

The ring? You mean the one the Lone Ranger's got on his finger? Yes.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Get word to the Lone Ranger. Tell him to open the ring. Remember that. Open the ring.

[Amos]

I'll do it. I'll start right now. It'll take till tomorrow night to reach the woods and I'll make my way through in the dark. Get the Powder river and then shove on till I find the army camp. I'll get what grubba need as I go along.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Remember the message, Amos. Open the rain.

[Amos]

I will go.

[Narrator]

Amos pushed his horse to the limit. For long hours he rode steadily through the night. At dawn, he paused briefly, let the horse drink and graze for a minimum of time, then once more pressed ahead. By nightfall, the exhausted man and horse had reached the vast stretch of woods near Powder River.

[Amos]

Now we're in for hard travel. Old Horse got to go due north by instinct and what little we see of the stars. Get along, boy. We got luck on our side. We'll be at the Powder river by shut up.

[Narrator]

An hour and then another passed while horse and rider continued through the trees. Low branches slapped at Amos face and rough bark raked the horse's sides. It was almost midnight. The center of the forest had been reached. Then suddenly.

[The Lone Ranger]

This is just an ordinary kind.

[Amos]

Sure, that's all I am.

[Narrator]

Let me go.

[Amos]

I don't mean no trouble. Where are you going?

[Narrator]

North of the Powder River.

[The Lone Ranger]

The what?

[Amos]

Look mister, I didn't do anything. I don't know who you are, but if you think I'm an outlaw, you can search me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why are you riding north at this.

[Amos]

Time of the night?

[The Lone Ranger]

What's your name anyhow?

[Amos]

Amos. I'm riding north to meet my friend.

[The Lone Ranger]

Take him to the headquarters.

[Amos]

Please let me go to headquarters.

[The Lone Ranger]

A long ways off. Yeah, that's right. We gotta stick around here. Rope into the tree. That'll keep him for a turn.

[Amos]

No, don't do that. I gotta get north. Get up.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're lucky to be alive.

[Narrator]

Rope him for that. Tightly tied to a large trunk of a great tree Amos could see the vague figures of the men who moved in the midnight darkness of the woods. He knew there were a lot of them but there was no way to count the exact number. His spirit sank to low ebb. He had failed in his all important mission. The words of the girl echoed in his ears.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Tell him to open the ring. Tell him to open the ring.

[Amos]

Can't tell him. Can't help now.

[The Lone Ranger]

It'll be licked.

[Amos]

The army, my army, will be licked.

[Girl/Ma'am]

The whole detachment may be wiped out. Tell him to open the ring. Open the ring.

[Amos]

And I failed him. Maybe they've got their own Ranger prisoner too.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger and Tonto continued through the woods.

[The Lone Ranger]

Blackest part of woods behind us now. Hope those outlaws are behind us.

[Narrator]

Not what Tonto thinks.

[The Lone Ranger]

Do you Kimosabe? Ah, long time back. We ride in wide circle. That was when you told me not to speak and had our horses travel very slowly. And that's where Tonto thinks outlaw.

[Narrator]

Wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tado. Look ahead of us. That's good. That's where woods come to end out a river. That right. Another few seconds and we'll be out of the woods. And then we cross river. Then Kimosabe, we can really travel. The curtain falls on the first act.

[Narrator]

Of our Lone Ranger story before the next exciting scenes. Please permit us to pause for just a few moments. Now to continue our story. The masked man and Tonto reached the river and splashed into the water.

[The Lone Ranger]

Green was shallow.

[Narrator]

In a moment the hoops of sculpt and silver clattered on the dry bank. The north bank of Powder River. Ahead, the land was level, free of trees and lighted by the moon. The Lone Ranger cried out. Both horses leaped ahead. They seemed joyous at the woods had been left behind. Mile after mile, the mighty silver paced the sturdy sculpts. The moon sank and the darkness grew more dense. Again. The hardy voice rang out. Then the first gray light of dawn it grew. And then a reddish hue came from the east to paint the land ahead. On through the dawn the horses ran. Then far ahead, just as the sun's rim showed a tiny arc above the horizon, the faint note of a bugle sounded above the clatter of the horses hoofs.

[The Lone Ranger]

Reoi me, Taddo.

[Narrator]

There it is. Who goes there?

[The Lone Ranger]

A friend. I want to speak to your commandant. You're a mask?

[Amos]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Will you summon the commandant?

[Amos]

Very well.

[The Lone Ranger]

Corporal, the guard. Corporal, the guard.

[Amos]

Very boy.

[The Lone Ranger]

The horse is very tired. Tello m a plenty long run. They've earned a rest and they're gonna get it.

[Narrator]

Maybe army go south right away.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's all right. We'll not have to go with it. As long as we inform the colonel of the situation south of here, he'll take matters in hand. He went into the woods unaware of the danger. He might be overpowered. But those outlaws don't have the advantage of surprise. The army will have the situation in hand from the start. Not many soldier here. Keymos Abbey and plenty outlawing woods. Odds mean nothing to the army. Taro. As soon as we've seen Colonel Moffat, we'll find a place to camp.

[Narrator]

The corporal, the guard will tell Captain Blake about you.

[The Lone Ranger]

But I want to see Colonel Moffat.

[Amos]

He hasn't been here in weeks.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hasn't been here?

[Narrator]

Captain Blake is in command and he doesn't like masked men. Captain Blake joined the sentry at the army camp and with a deep frown on his face, studied the Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

What, sir, is the meaning of this? You come here mask. I came to speak to Colonel Moffat. I understood he was in command. He's been away for some time. You're Captain Blake? I am the colonel were here, he would know who I am. I propose to find out who you are. Please remove with that mask. Just a moment. Captain Blake. You wouldn't have any idea who I am by seeing my face? No. Well, I'll. I don't expect that My efforts in this part of the country have made you familiar with the expression the Lone Ranger. I've been here but a short time. I'm from Ohio I must insist that you unmask, sir, and account for the wearing of that mask. Captain, I. This part of the country has been placed under what amounts to martial law.

[Amos]

Colonel.

[The Lone Ranger]

And I have been traveling hard to bring a message to you, to your men. I said, sir, unmask. Do so at once, or I'll have it done for you. Just a moment, Captain. You're traveling south. You're going through the woods south of Powder River. You know a great deal about army maneuvers. Too much, I would say. Captain, have you heard of a powerful gang of outlaws around here? So you seek further information. I do nothing of the sort. I'm trying to give you information.

[Amos]

False. The truth.

[The Lone Ranger]

The woods south of Powder river hold an army of outlaws. More of them than you have soldiers. They know you're coming. They're waiting for you. Indeed, yes. This is probably the poorest effort and strategy I've ever seen. Naturally, the outlaws don't want the army to take over control south of the river. The bandits down there have had things their own way. They don't want us there. So you come here. You expect me to believe you? Despite that mask? You tell of the size of the outlaw army in the woods. And I dare say you expect me to remain here rather than go and confront those outlaws. Captain Blake, I'm trying in every way I know to state the situation to you. What would you suggest, sir? That you start now, at once. Get through the woods in daylight and be prepared to fight. Thank you for the suggestion. My information, however, is different. Therefore, I will proceed along the lines originally planned and frank camp tonight.

[Amos]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

I have no apprehension of going through the woods in darkness. I've been informed that the men we seek are beyond the woods. If I follow your suggestion, we'll come out of the woods in the south at night. And that is where we expect to meet our opposition. What can I do to convince you I'm not in league with those outlaws? You can't convince me. Place this man under arrest. Yes, sir. Stand back. So I'm not going to be placed under arrest? Last draw. Two guns, huh? That serves to verify my suspicions. If you were what you claim, a friend of the army, you'd be quite willing to submit to arrest, unmasking and investigation. Captain, there are reasons you can't possibly understand why I cannot be unmasked.

[Narrator]

Our signal.

[The Lone Ranger]

It'll bring men. I've been the outlaw you accused me of being. I'd never let your guard fire that signal. You can't escape. Fire your guns or you'll be Riddled with bullets. Turn from here to ride and we'll bring you down. Blake, I've got to do this. Much as I hate to. I'm leaving and you're coming with me. You can't watch those other tunnels.

[Amos]

Watch him. Up. Hand me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let me go. I'm sorry. Up you go. You're riding on Silver, with me. Steady, boy.

[Narrator]

Let him go and I'll fire.

[The Lone Ranger]

Fire and you'll hit your captain. Hold your fire.

[Narrator]

Don't shoot the Captain.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll hang for this. You change your mind about that. Our horses are tired, but they've got to do it. Get going, gentlemen.

[Amos]

Forward. Mount up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Bring the horses.

[Amos]

He's got the Captain. Hurry up.

[Narrator]

He's making for a crowd. In a few seconds, after the Lone Ranger dashed away with the Captain, the troopers were in their saddles, racing in pursuit. That white horse can't hold a place.

[The Lone Ranger]

For long, carrying double like that.

[Amos]

Keep him in sight.

[Narrator]

Silver, already exhausted, called forth reserves strength from his great heart to obey the command of his master. This was no ordinary incident for the Lone Ranger. It was the climax of all his efforts of the past.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. Calm your silver heels.

[Narrator]

The masked man felt the ultimate defeat of the whole legion of the Black Arrow. The terrorist band of outlaws, plotters against the flag depended on the next few hours. He was ready, even glad, to offer his own life if by so doing he had smashed the menacing organization that threatened the very foundation of the nation.

[The Lone Ranger]

Blake. Larry. Ride. You've got to listen. There was no other way than this. You'll hang for this. Why men don't shoot you? My life doesn't matter. The life of your troopers is what counts. They must not be massacred. They must carry on. They'll carry on long after they dispose of you. The river is just ahead, on the far side. I'm going to let you to the ground. You'd better not, until we penetrated the woods. A little way far enough to prove to you that I have told the truth.

[Amos]

Otto.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now what you want, King? Ms. Abby, you've got to stay with the Captain. I'm going on alone.

[Amos]

Why?

[The Lone Ranger]

You stay tuned for no follow order to Kimasabe, a river we'll cross. Just a little deeper into the woods. Captain, I'll leave you in Toto. My men will overtake you in a minute. They won't need to. Steady, Silver. Steady, boy. Down you go. Take over, Tonto.

[Amos]

Tonto.

[The Lone Ranger]

Got gun on Captain Blake. I'm going on ahead. Those outlaws want me just as badly as they want you and your troopers. I think they're not far ahead of us. Perhaps when they open fire on me. You believe what I told you? That this is where your danger exists. I'll see you. You stay here. Adios, Tado. Let me join you by and by. Come on, Silver. This is the last effort. Silver, old boy. I know you're tired, but so am I. But that doesn't matter now. Only we can draw enough gunfire to show the troopers where those killers are. Only the first shots don't get. Are you all right, sir? Put that Indian under arrest. Let me take a horse. Here, sir. I brought your own. Search these woods for that mask man. Spread out. No nuts. Spread out.

[Amos]

Go on.

[Narrator]

Find outlaw.

[The Lone Ranger]

They'll find the outlaws beyond the woods. You hear one shot fired by the masked man to lure us on. He's desperately anxious to have us. Go on through the woods now and arrive at the other side after dark.

[Narrator]

Tyron again. Outlaw there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pair it off, men. Close in on him all. No shots knocked one man.

[Narrator]

There does seem to be a lot of shooting.

[The Lone Ranger]

I wait. One of those reports are rifles. Masked man had no rifle.

[Amos]

Was he?

[Narrator]

Do you think he was telling the truth?

[The Lone Ranger]

Sir, Let me listen.

[Amos]

Get the Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did you hear that, sir?

[Narrator]

Someone called out.

[Amos]

Wait. Let me listen.

[The Lone Ranger]

Someone said, get the Lone Ranger.

[Amos]

The Black Arrow pay handsome. I heard that.

[The Lone Ranger]

He was right.

[Amos]

Man.

[The Lone Ranger]

Man, listen to me. The Black Arrow is ahead of us here. Like the Black Arrow. Them got more men than you have here. More men?

[Narrator]

What of that?

[The Lone Ranger]

We're soldiers. We're fighters.

[Amos]

Come on, let's go get him.

[Narrator]

At last the captain believed. He led his men, saber flashing in the sun as it grinded through the trees, pistol in the other hand, barking at the first of the outlaws who came before his life. Trained soldiers, experts at grim battle charged the scattered outlaws who were taken by surprise. Gunfire that was devastating lashed at the Black Arrow. The outlaws were gripped by stark panic when they faced the army. Their shots were wild, erratic. Some tried to flee without success.

[Amos]

Success.

[Narrator]

Others sought the protection of trees. The well trained horses of the troopers leaked over obstacles, dodged around the underbrush and kept a line of fire on every man. And through it all, one man yelled.

[Amos]

Boys, that's the right spirit. That's the way we always got it. Cut them down, wipe them out. That students don't want the army. Men are like when they can fight the man you do. Lo Ranger. They'll get what's coming to us.

[Narrator]

He was last to a tree, but feared none of the wildly flying bullets. He saw the army. His army fighting as never before. Then the fight was over.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll cut the ropes. Amos. How did you get here?

[Amos]

The pool catch catched me. I was trying to get to you.

[The Lone Ranger]

There. Now rub your wrist.

[Amos]

Me? I'm all right. Did the troopers get them all?

[The Lone Ranger]

They're tying the prisoners now.

[Amos]

Golly. I wanted to tell you about Colonel Moffat. When the girl heard that he wasn't in command, she sent me after you. It was about the ring.

[The Lone Ranger]

The ring?

[Amos]

And she thought you might have trouble convincing the captain in command that he was to believe what you said. But you didn't have no trouble. I guess you fetched them here all right.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I have brought them here.

[Girl/Ma'am]

Glad you did.

[The Lone Ranger]

What about the ring?

[Amos]

She says to tell you to open the ring.

[The Lone Ranger]

Open the ring?

[Amos]

Just that? That's what she says. That and nothing more. Open the ring.

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't know it could be opened. In fact, I've hardly had a chance to examine it closely. You must have it. Everything all right now? How this ring is supposed to open in some. There it is. There's a secret compartment here.

[Amos]

Now, what do you know?

[The Lone Ranger]

This explains one thing more about the girl. Where's Captain Blake? Let him come. Captain Blake. Do they call you the Lone Ranger now, sir? I understand what that means. I'm sorry for the way I had to take matters in hand. Sorry? Man alive, I'm proud to have been taken in hand. Look, I didn't realize it, but I had this with me all the time.

[Narrator]

What's that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Very small bit of thin paper on which is written a message.

[Amos]

You see?

[The Lone Ranger]

This message will assure anyone who sees it that the bear is acting at the personal request President. Is this your ring? It wasn't mine, but. Well, I was told to wear it. Now we go make camp, huh? Yes, Toto. The army will take care of the prisoners. Your permission, Captain? We'll leave. That's all right.

[Amos]

I'll go back to town with my old regiment and tell the girl that everything's all right.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't think you'll see her to tell her, Amos.

[Amos]

You don't think I'll see her?

[The Lone Ranger]

I think she'll drop out of sight until she's needed again. Good luck, Lone Ranger. Adios. Adios, caritado.

[Amos]

Ah.

[The Lone Ranger]

Get off. Scout kennel up.

[Amos]

Sa. It's sam.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of OTRWesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739 this episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.