Murder at Tricorn Ranch | The Lone Ranger (11-26-51)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns – "Murder at Tricorn Ranch" | The Lone Ranger (11-26-51)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: November 26, 1951
Podcast Episode Date: August 29, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode from the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast presents a suspenseful installment of "The Lone Ranger," titled "Murder at Tricorn Ranch." Meticulously restored for modern audiences, it transports listeners to the rugged West, immersing them in a tale of murder, mystery, mistaken identity, and ultimately justice. The story revolves around the murder of a wealthy French ranch owner, George Durant, and the ensuing efforts of the Lone Ranger, his companion Tonto, and the local sheriff to solve the case and save an innocent man from a vengeful mob.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. Introduction to the Tricorn Ranch and Main Characters

• [05:37] Narrator introduces George Durant, his daughter Annette, and their life at the Tricorn Ranch after emigrating from France. Durant’s inexperience ranching leads him to depend on his young foreman, Wade Hatton.
• Annette's concerns: Durant refuses to use banks and carries large sums of money ("He carries on him always great sums of money in his money bag.” – Annette, [07:31]).
• Light romantic tension between Annette and Wade Hatton.

2. The Murder of George Durant

• [08:38] Durant leaves to meet someone in Little Canyon. He is confronted and fatally shot by an unseen assailant.
• [09:16] The Lone Ranger and Tonto, passing nearby, hear the shots and discover the dying Durant.
• Durant, unable to speak, tries to communicate the name of his killer by drawing a picture in the dirt: a hat (sombrero/chapeau).
• Quote: “Don’t try to speak. We want to know who shot you. Use the end of the stick to write the man’s name in the dirt.” – The Lone Ranger ([10:20])

3. Initial Investigation and Misdirection

• [11:44] The Lone Ranger brings Durant’s body to the ranch, where daughter Annette is devastated.
• The sheriff, Tom Roswell, and neighboring rancher Chapman "Chap" O’Neill arrive. Suspicion quickly falls on Hatton, who was not seen at dinner and knew about the money belt.
• [15:29] Interpreting the dirt drawing as a hat, O'Neill suggests ‘Hatton’ is the intended name: “Did you hear what this masked man said? Hat on. Get it.” – O’Neill ([15:52])
• Annette defends Hatton’s character.

4. Hatton’s Interrogation and Community Tensions

• [17:39] Hatton is arrested as he returns from town, stunned to hear of Durant's murder.
• [19:29] Under intense questioning, Hatton provides a strong alibi: “I was out at the C-Bar-L Ranch and there are five cowpokes out there who swear I was with them all night.” – Hatton ([19:41])
• O’Neill tries to provoke Hatton into anger, but the sheriff intervenes.
• Mob formation: As word of the murder spreads, O’Neill and his henchman Red Bissell stir up the townsfolk, pushing for frontier justice (mob lynching).

5. Mob Justice Confronted

• Red Bissell rallies the crowd: “Let’s hang the murderer... break down the doors of the sheriff’s office and get Hatton. Come on!” – Bissell ([24:01])
• [24:19] The Lone Ranger intervenes, dramatically holding off the mob: “Stop right where you are. The first man who comes forward will be shot.” – Lone Ranger ([24:19])
• Deputies fire over the mob, wounding Bissell. The crowd disperses.

6. The Clue Unveiled – Chapeau (Hat) Means Chap

• Bissell, wounded and desperate, begins to confess.
• The Lone Ranger connects the French word for hat, “chapeau,” with “Chap O’Neill”:
  “You don't have to speak French to know what their word for hat is, do you?” – Lone Ranger ([26:01])
  “French for hat is chapeau.” – Sheriff Roswell ([26:11])
• The dying Durant was trying to finger O’Neill, not Hatton.

7. Unmasking the Real Killer

• The Lone Ranger tricks O’Neill by warning that Bissell has confessed, prompting O’Neill to recover the hidden money belt.
• [28:46] O'Neill is caught red-handed by Sheriff Roswell and deputies:
  “Drop it right there, O’Neill. Get your hands up. You’re under arrest for the murder of George Durant.” – Deputy ([29:14])

8. Resolution and Justice Served

• O'Neill’s motives are revealed: desperation for money and eradication of the loan/favor Durant had extended him.
• Annette is told the truth and learns that Wade Hatton will be freed, his innocence proven.
• Sheriff Roswell pays tribute: “For what's happened tonight, we're all grateful to the Lone Ranger.” ([31:04])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “If you're able, use the end of the stick to write the man's name in the dirt.” – The Lone Ranger [10:20]
• “Did you hear what this masked man said? Hat on. Get it.” – Chapman O’Neill [15:52]
• “Stop right where you are. The first man who comes forward will be shot.” – The Lone Ranger [24:19]
• “You don't have to speak French to know what their word for hat is, do you?” – The Lone Ranger [26:01]
• “French for hat is chapeau.” – Sheriff Roswell [26:11]
• “Drop it right there, O’Neill… You’re under arrest for the murder of George Durant.” – Deputy [29:14]
• “For what’s happened tonight, we're all grateful to the Lone Ranger.” – Sheriff Roswell [31:04]

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• [05:37] – Introduction to Tricorn Ranch, Durant family, and foreshadowing of murder.
• [08:38-10:33] – Murder in Little Canyon, Durant’s death, cryptic clue drawn.
• [11:44-15:18] – Investigation at the ranch, analysis of clue, suspicion on Hatton grows.
• [17:39-19:47] – Hatton’s arrest and interrogation, alibi provided.
• [21:13-24:23] – Mob stirs; Lone Ranger standoff with the mob.
• [25:35-26:38] – Bissell's confession; realization about "chapeau"/Chap.
• [28:46-29:14] – Sting at the cabin, O'Neill’s apprehension.
• [29:51-31:04] – Resolution and gratitude expressed to the Lone Ranger.

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Summary & Episode Flow

The episode masterfully weaves classic Western motifs – ranch life, greed, betrayal, frontier justice – with elements of mystery and deductive reasoning. The red herring of Hatton, insights around language (French “chapeau” as “Chap”), and the Lone Ranger's cunning intervention build suspense and deliver a satisfying resolution. Memorable exchanges underscore themes of loyalty, justice, and community, honoring the tradition of the Lone Ranger as “the masked rider for justice.”

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If you missed the episode:
Expect an engaging story that blends Western action, community drama, and clever detective work—with a linguistic twist—presented in the vibrant, immersive audio style that Old Time Radio Westerns is known for. The episode pays tribute to classic radio storytelling, with the legendary Lone Ranger riding into (and out of) action to ensure the real killer faces justice.

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Transcript

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[Crowd/Mob]

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 absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi O Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Annette Durant]

Sam Ram.

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[The Lone Ranger]

For.

[Narrator]

This faithful Indian companion Turtle. 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.

[Crowd/Mob]

The Lone Ranger rides again. From Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let go.

[Crowd/Mob]

Become Silver. Hooray.

[Narrator]

George Durant was 49 years old when he left France with his grown daughter Annette and went to the United States, settling in the fabulous Great west of which he had read so much. A man of means, he avoided commerce and bought a large ranch which he called the Tricorn. At the end of three years, his ranch had prospered, but he knew little of wrenching and allowed his young foreman, Wade Hatton, to supervise all phases of the work. Late one afternoon, as he mounted his gentle saddle horse Napoleon and prepared to ride away, he saw his charming daughter Annette approaching, escorted by Wade Hatton. Annette made a face.

[Annette Durant]

Papa, you are not riding off so late in the day. Dinner is ready, Papa. And I prepared the dishes you like so well.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Ah, that is she bad? Not a cheek. But I am no hungry for food this day. Right now I shall feast my eyes on the sunset and my ears will be moved to the car.

[Annette Durant]

Papa, I do not think that is.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Funny, because I do not eat. Eating is for the young ones. Wade will share your dinner, will you not, Wade? I'm sorry, sir, but I can't. Ms. Durand. I have a little private business I must attend to on the other side of town.

[Annette Durant]

It does not matter, really. I shall eat alone.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

But I go now, my petite. I too have private business.

[Annette Durant]

Revoir. Au revoir, papa.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

So long, Mr. Durant. You know, Ms. Annette, one of these days your father's going to be a real bronco riding ranger.

[Annette Durant]

I do not think so, Wade. He likes to ride, yes, but it is like the effort he makes to speak English. Go along fine for a while, then suddenly poop he is throwing. That he's true on a horse as well as when he speaks. Which is why I do not like to see him ride alone.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He does all right. What could happen?

[Annette Durant]

Many things. Everyone knows that. He carries on him always great sums of money in his money bag.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He just refuses to put it in a bank.

[Annette Durant]

Always in France there are no banks as you have here. He says he keeps his money always with him. It is not that he is a miser, as you say.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

That's sure. He's helped people in lots of ways since he came to these parts. Helped him? Without question. We need more men like him.

[Annette Durant]

Here in the west. It is nice for you to serve him.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

That's true. We need more women like you, too. Oh, I don't think you're trippy admitting.

[Annette Durant]

Wade, you make me blurt.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Oh, I didn't mean anything, Ms. Annette. There could be other. I mean. Well, I mean. Yes. I better be getting along. Bye, Miss Annette. I mean, au revoir.

[Narrator]

Was full and casting its silver glow on the rock littered ground when George Durant rode slowly into Little Canyon. He peered from side to side as if seeking someone. He stopped his horse near a large boulder and smiled as he saw a man step into his path.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Ah, sharp. It is here. You wait. No, it is, Morge. What you call pleasant this evening, is it not? Bayonet, she said. Chop chop. What are you doing? Why is it you raise your gun like that?

[Crowd/Mob]

Chop.

[Narrator]

At that moment, the Lone Ranger and Tato were riding across the mesa when they heard the shots from the canyon.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tato, you hear that? Shots.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Them come from Canyon Kimasabi.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's a trail straight ahead that leads down there. We're going, Toto. Come on. Too late.

[Crowd/Mob]

Come on, scout.

[Narrator]

Many minutes later, the Lone Ranger and Toto found George Durant lying in Little Canyon, badly wounded. There was no other person in sight. As the masked man knelt beside Durant and tried to stop the flow of blood. The Frenchman, sensing death was near, tried to speak.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm sorry, I can't understand what you're saying. He's not speaking English. Mister, who shot you? You know. Please hand me that stick behind you on the ground. Thanks.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger realized the dying man was unable to speak, but that he wanted to convey some message. He lifted Durant into a half sitting position and placed the slim stick in the man's hand.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't try to speak. We want to know who shot you. You understand? You do? All right. Now, if you're able, use the end of the stick to write the man's name in the dirt. You understand what I mean?

[Narrator]

Your aunt started to move the stick, then stopped. The moonlight revealed a stricken look in his eyes. A look that became knowing again as he began to press the stick into the dirt. He moved the stick convulsively, but when he stopped, he had made the outlines of a sombrero. He closed his eyes, opened them again, then started to make another figure. But the stick fell from his hand as he gasped and died.

[The Lone Ranger]

There was nothing we could do to save him. No. What's Kim or something? Him not right name like you say.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Him like mountain.

[The Lone Ranger]

A mountain. Let me look again. Yes, it could be that. It looks more like a sombrero. I think he better move his body away from here. The ranch not far from here.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Up canyon trail to north.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's right, the Tricorn Ranch. The one that Otto. The Tricorn Ranch is owned by a Frenchman named Durant. The language this man spoke was French. Perhaps this is George Durant's. Maybe. Otto, ride across the mason, take the short trail to town, find a sheriff and have him come to the Tricorn Ranch. I'll move this man's body there and be waiting for you.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Now.

[Narrator]

When elect your ramp answered the knock on the ranch house door and saw the mask man, she gasped in terror. Then when she saw the body of her father, she became hysterical. But by the time the sheriff and his men led by Tato, arrived in front of the house, the soothing words and manner of the Lone Ranger had calmed her greatly.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's a terrible tragedy, Mr. Ranch, but try to restrain your toe. Oh, that must be the sheriff outside. He'll need your help just as you need his.

[Annette Durant]

I shall try to be calm. I still do not understand why it is you wear that mask, but you have been most kind.

[The Lone Ranger]

You remain seated. I'll open the door.

[Narrator]

Sheriff Tom Roswell and his posse passed the ranch of Chapman o' Neal on their way to the Tricorn. O', Neal, who was riding through his gate, turned his horse and joined them on the way to the Tricorn ranch. He learned why Sheriff Roswell was with the Indian. When the lawman stood in front of the ranch house waiting the response to his knock. Chapman o', Neill, known everywhere as Chap, stood beside him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, he's taken long enough to answer the door. Sheriff, maybe you better barge right in. Yeah.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Someone coming now.

[Narrator]

As the door opened and the Lone Ranger appeared in the opening cap, o' Neill's reaction was immediate. He leaped in front of the sheriff, gun in hand, and pointed it at the mascot. Make a move. You stay right where you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's the idea?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

You murder informant?

[Narrator]

You're the one who killed Mr. Durant, aren't you?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Up with your hand. Stop it. Mr. O', Neill, put away that gun. What?

[Narrator]

But, Sheriff, this man is mask.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He's here. He's the one who found Mr. Durant's body and sent his Indian friend for me. Now put away the gun.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, thanks, Sheriff. You arrived here fast.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

We left right away. Ms. Durant, I'm sorry about this.

[Annette Durant]

Yes. You must find the man who killed my father.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

I'll try, Mr. Ant. Believe me, now, stranger, suppose you tell me how you happened upon the body. Tonto has explained who you are. And he tells me that Mr. Grant was still alive when you found him. He was.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did he tell you who it was that shot him? No, not in words or writing.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Oh, by the way, my name's Chapman o' Neill.

[The Lone Ranger]

Chap my friends call me. Oh, yes, but Sheriff, suppose I tell.

[Narrator]

You everything The Lone Ranger told of finding George Durant after hearing the shots and related in detail the last moments of the dying man.

[The Lone Ranger]

And instead of writing a name, he drew what I take to be the picture of a hat.

[Annette Durant]

May I offer an explanation perhaps?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Certainly, Mr. Irons.

[Annette Durant]

But perhaps he is not sure he is able to write English. Though I tell him it is not difficult. Always when he is excited or in trouble, he forget his English and speak his native French.

[The Lone Ranger]

That explains his speaking in French to me.

[Annette Durant]

Papa, when he is a boy, has studied to paint pictures, draw you. Perhaps he thinks he is better able to make clear what is in his mind if he draws a picture instead of writing in the English he finds so difficult.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

I'll bet that's it, stranger. You say it's possible to see this picture he drew in the moonlight?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, it was lighter then. But I have candles in my pack.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

And we have lanterns. You saw no trace of the money belt Mr. Rant says her father carried?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, no trace at all. Another thing. Much of the ground in the companion is covered with rock. It'll be hard to pick up a trail.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

No matter. We'll go there now.

[Annette Durant]

May I go with you? I may be able to help you. With this picture, I mean.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure, Mr. Rant. Come along.

[Narrator]

The men and nephew. Rant studied the ground in the canyon, scanning the a picture made in the dirt with the aid of the sheriff's lanterns. Roswell was the first to speak. He addressed the Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

I agree with you. It looks like a sombrero.

[Annette Durant]

That is what I think. Those last few lines papa made, they make the band on their hat and the dents of the crown.

[The Lone Ranger]

But what does it mean, a hat on their.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

That's it.

[Narrator]

That's what he meant.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He told you we'll kill them right there. What do you mean, Mr. O'?

[The Lone Ranger]

Neill?

[Annette Durant]

Yes, Jack? Tell us what it is you mean.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Did you hear what this masked man said? Hat on. Get it.

[Narrator]

Miss Annette.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Where's your form?

[Narrator]

And Wade Hatton?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

God gone, Mr. O'. Neill. It looks like you hit it. Hat on the ground is what he drew. Hat on. Yes, Mr. Rand. Where's Wade Hatton?

[Annette Durant]

I do not know. He left the ranch soon after Papa drive off.

[The Lone Ranger]

You hear that? He knew about Durant's money belt. He knew.

[Annette Durant]

It is not fair to say that. Chapter I do not believe he would kill my father. Papa treated him like a stem when he said he had business on the other side of town. I believe that it is the truth.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

It may be Mr. Aunt, but in view of what we see here, the way we interpret it, I think we'd better question Wade Hatton. Come in. We're going back on the main road and we're going to look for Wade Hatton.

[Narrator]

A posse augmented by o', Neill, the Lone Ranger and Totto came upon Wade Hatton as he was leaving town, heading back towards the Tricorn Ranch. Hatton on his horse looked stunned as the sheriff's men surrounded him with drawn guns and Sheriff Roswell spoke.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

You're coming back to my office, Wade Hatton. I have questions to ask you and you'd better answer them truthfully. I'm holding you on suspicion of killing George Durant.

[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 moments.

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[Narrator]

Continue. Wade Hatton, astounded to learn of his employer's murder, was questioned for almost an hour. He bore up under the interrogation and in exasperation said to the sheriff, you're.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Out of your mind if you think that's what the picture means. I was out at the C Bar L Ranch and there are five cow folks out there who swear I was with them all night.

[Narrator]

They could have been in on the.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Job with you hadn't what?

[Narrator]

You cut them in on the money you stole, you dirty.

[The Lone Ranger]

No you don't.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Hatton, get back in that chair. What Right. Is that no good? Got to say things like that. Let me take one more punch jaw. Look, look.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's cut my jaw with his fist. Stand back, o'. Neill.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yes, Stand back. I'll handle this. And you don't belong in here, Mr. O'. Neill. McDowell.

[Crowd/Mob]

Yes, Sheriff?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Take Mr. O' Neill to the door and let him out.

[Narrator]

But, Sheriff, I.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Come along, Mr. O'.

[Crowd/Mob]

Neill.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Get your hands off me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on now.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

There you go. All right, Sheriff, he's gone. Thanks, Mac.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pete, Billy.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yes? What is a charge? McDowell's taking Haddon into that cell. Inside. You go with him and act as guard. Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

When Hatton had disappeared into the cell block, Sheriff Roswell looked at the Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Well, what do you think?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm not sure yet. I agree there's logic in oneills interpretation of the picture Durant made. Yet I.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yet you have the feeling that Hatton's telling the truth. Is that it?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I feel the same way.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

That's why I'll check in his alibi at once.

[The Lone Ranger]

Otano's waiting outside for me. If it's all the same to you, I'll go out the rear door and join him.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yes, do that. There's a crowd gathering out front. The word of Durant's death is around. I imagine seeing you and your mask might start from asking questions.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger could hear the sheriff and his posse right away as he went to join in the shadows behind the building. Cotto, who had been in front of the sheriff's office, reported about the temper of the mob that was gathering there.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Men, he plenty mad. Them say hang man in jail, lynch Hatton.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why, they don't know the facts in the murder any more than the sheriff does.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

A man, talk to him, go to.

[Narrator]

Cafe, go to stores, talk to men.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Tell him what happened. He'd hear him.

[The Lone Ranger]

You followed the man who's been rousing them?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Ah, him. In front of sheriff's office. Now.

[Narrator]

Tato led the Lone Ranger to a darkened recess at the side of the sheriff's building. There, unseen, he watched the mob becoming more excited. Then he spoke to Toto.

[The Lone Ranger]

We can allow Hatton to be harmed. Anything happens, I'll act. You remain here until I give you the word.

[Narrator]

When chap o' Neill left the sheriff's office, he'd gone to a nearby cafe where his foreman and henchman, Red Bissell, waited. He gave angry instructions to Bissell, who hurried to cafes and stores along the main street, spreading the word of Durant's murder. Now, as the crowd milled in Front of the sheriff's office. O' Neill spoke to Bissell at a spot behind the mob. You sure have them riled. You made them think hadn't killed Durant.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Cold blood.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah, I said he killed and robbed him. Most of them know the Frenchman in life. They think we ought to deal with Hatton ourselves.

[Narrator]

Otherwise his alibi might hold up and the sheriff will keep looking for the killer.

[The Lone Ranger]

I want Hatton to hang. Oh. Figure you may be able to get the girl as well as her old man's money, huh?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

My arm.

[Crowd/Mob]

My arm.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Narrator]

Don't make another remark like that or I'll shoot You. Get up there and take charge of that mob. Do it fast.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now.

[Narrator]

Red Bissell went to the porch on the building next to the sheriff's office. The crowd, unruly at first, subsided as he signaled for quiet. Then he spoke.

[Crowd/Mob]

They have a murder inside the sheriff's office here. A cold blooded murderer who shot a good man because he wanted his money.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

We want him.

[Crowd/Mob]

Old man Durant was good to a lot of you fellas out there, and you're owing something. Something like seeing that the man who murdered him doesn't get away with it. He won't get away with it. He will get away with it if that sheriff has anything to say. He's in on the thing with Hatton. You see? I say we've stood for too much silly sallying with bad lawmen. Let's do things ourselves. Let's revenge old man Durant. Do I hear someone say lynch Hatton? Yes. Let's hang the murderer. Hang him. And let's break down the doors of the sheriff's office and Jeff Hatton. Come on.

[Narrator]

Red Bissell with a leer at chap o' Neill jumped to the ground and started for the sheriff's office, the angry mob shuffling behind. Suddenly, a masked man leaped from the shadows at the side of the building and vaulted onto the sheriff's porch. The Lone Ranger fired over the heads of the mob and faced them with two guns in his hands.

[The Lone Ranger]

Stop right where you are. The first man who comes forward will be shot.

[Crowd/Mob]

Who are you? What are you trying to do?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going to see that justice is done. You, whoever you are, you've been egging this crowd onto a lynching bee man. He's been lying to you. There's no real proof that Hatton killed Mr. Durant.

[Crowd/Mob]

That's not true. Who are you? Many are going to stand there afraid of a single man in a mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

I have friends behind you.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Huddle. Show them.

[The Lone Ranger]

You see? There are others, too.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yeah.

[Crowd/Mob]

Look, Here comes Ed McDowell and two other deputies inside.

[The Lone Ranger]

MacDowell. They're after Hutton.

[Crowd/Mob]

I know.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

I heard everything.

[Crowd/Mob]

Men, shoot him down. Shoot him down. Get back, Thistle. Grab that gun, McDowell. You can't stop us. Outsource.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Red.

[Narrator]

Bissell raised his gun to fire, but McDowell's shot caught him in the shoulder. At the same moment, the two deputies fired over the heads of the crowd.

[Crowd/Mob]

Red is hit. Look at him. They mean business. Anyone else want to start something? Anyone else? Then get away from here. Hatton will get a fair trial in the court. No mobs will rule this town.

[Narrator]

The crowd, like all mobs, was cowardly. The men slunk away, leaving the wounded Bissell at the feet of the deputy sheriff and the Lone Ranger. Red Bissell, fearing he was mortally wounded, began to groan.

[Crowd/Mob]

Oh, save me. Don't let me die. Chap. Chap. Don't let him do this to me. Where are you, chap? You won't die, Bissell. I know I'll die. I feel he put me up to this and then ran away.

[The Lone Ranger]

Who put you up to it, Red? Who had you lead the mob?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Coyote who ran away with the rest?

[Crowd/Mob]

SAP. SAP.

[Annette Durant]

Oh.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Oh, Chap.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hold it, Miguel. This sounds insane, but it might be the answer. You don't have to speak French to know what their word for hat is, do you?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why, no.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

French for hat is chapeau.

[The Lone Ranger]

The word this man said when he started. The name Chap o'. Neill. That's whom you meant, isn't it, Bissell?

[Annette Durant]

Yeah. Yes, chap.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Masked man. You mean that when Durant threw that picture in the dirt, he meant Chap o'?

[Crowd/Mob]

Neill?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why not? He started to trace another line next to the hat when he died. Had he finished, he might have given us a second picture and the complete name of his murderer.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

I don't know what to say. It's true. The Chap o' Neill always needs money. He's thrown away most of what his father left him and the banks won't loan him anymore.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let's find out then, while Sheriff Roswell's checking on Hatton. Look at Red. He's passed out.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Bandage him, Pete, and take him inside. And get a doctor. Right.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ed o' Neill did leave with the rest of the crowd. I saw him talking to Bissell before.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He must have it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Me see him go to horse ride west. Heading for his ranch, probably.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then let's go there, McDowell. Let's learn what's behind his. Trying to get hatton lynched. I'm saying there's more to this than a mere play on the word chapeau.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

But what'll we do?

[The Lone Ranger]

I have a plan in mind I'll tell you about on the way. It starts with me going to see o' Neill alone.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

We start for the last.

[Narrator]

Chapman. O' Neill had been unnerved when the masked man kept Red Bissell from breaking into the sheriff's office and had become panicky when his lieutenant had been shot. Now, as he opened the door in response to a knock from outside, his legs became jelly like as he saw the same masked man facing him.

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you want? To warn you, chap. Never mind who I am or why. I tell you Red Bissell talked to the deputies.

[Narrator]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's right. I don't know what he told them. They think they have the answer to everything now. You were the one who killed George Durant and took his money belt, he said. I mean, who? I haven't time to stay here. I only know they have a new idea about the picture Durant drew before he died. He could explain everything, could name you and not Hatton. I don't see how they do. If I were you, I'd get that money built and ride away from here before Sheriff Roswell returned and freeze Hatton. That should have happened. Well, adios.

[Narrator]

Wait, wait, wait, and tell me what. The Lone Ranger walked quickly into the night and away from the ranch house.

[The Lone Ranger]

When he arrived at a clump of.

[Narrator]

Bushes near the gate, he slipped in beside Deputy Ed McDowell.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, you ready to follow him? I can't be sure that things will work out as I think they might. But I know that when I told him my story, he was actually shivering.

[Narrator]

Half an hour later, Chapel Neal entered the deserted cabin in Little Canyon, the place where he had buried George Durant's money belt.

[The Lone Ranger]

He lit a candle and placed it on the floor. Then he removed a pile of trash.

[Narrator]

From the floor, which he had placed to cover the spot where the loot was hidden. There was a loose board, and he placed the fingers of both hands beneath this and began to tug. The perspiration was streaming from his face as he finally tore the board loose. I'll take this money belt and get out of here. He held the large money belt in his hands, his frightened eyes suddenly enlivened by the feeling of possession. And then he heard the door open behind him.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Drop it right there, o'.

[Narrator]

Neill.

[Crowd/Mob]

Get your hands up. You're under arrest for the murder of George Durant.

[Narrator]

It was after midnight. When Sheriff Tom Roswell brought Wade Hatton to an apt durant in the Tricorn ranch house, the Lone Ranger and Totto who had ridden with them to hear of the confession which o' Neill had made to the sheriff, remained outside the house as Sheriff Roswell led the way. Inside the house, Roswell told the wide eyed Annette of all that had happened. Events he had become aware of only on his return to his office.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

And the wait story proved true and I was ready to free him. I had no idea that the guilty man would be waiting for me to think.

[Annette Durant]

Chap o' Neill did this terrible thing. My father called him friend.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Yes, your father loaned him money to save his ranch after the banks had refused. O' Neill never intended to repay the note. He asked your father to meet him secretly in Little Canyon to discuss his situation. Then he killed your father and took his money and the note which was also in the money balance. He destroyed the note, I suppose? No, we recovered it and the money. He intended to get rid of the paper at once, but he didn't have time. He heard men riding into the canyon. After he shot Mr. Durant, he fled and hid the money belt in the cabin, then rode back to his ranch.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quickly.

[Annette Durant]

Who were the riders you just mentioned.

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Who scared him away? The masked man and the Indian.

[Annette Durant]

Wonderful masked man. Good, darling. It was he who saved your life, was it not?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Ah, he sure did, darling.

[Annette Durant]

But where is he now? And who is he?

[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

He's gone now, as he always goes when he's sure that justice has been done. And for what's happened tonight, we're all.

[The Lone Ranger]

Grateful to the Lone Rang.

[Annette Durant]

Sa.

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[Sheriff Tom Roswell]

Sam.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Twindle Campbell Enterprises, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Indeed Advertiser]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit. To get your jobs more visibility at indeed.comkidsandfamily just go to indeed.comkidsandfamily right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.