Murder Strikes Thrice | The Lone Ranger (10-02-42)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Murder Strikes Thrice" | The Lone Ranger (10-02-42)

Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: June 9, 2026
Episode: Adapted from the classic Lone Ranger broadcast, remastered for clarity

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns presents "Murder Strikes Thrice," a suspenseful Lone Ranger story revolving around revenge, justice, and hidden identities in the town of Excalibur. When three men who testified in a murder trial are killed on their birthdays, suspicions arise that the man they helped convict, Paul Zenber, is behind the crimes. The Lone Ranger and his loyal companion, Tonto, delve into the case, unraveling a complex web of deceit, corruption, familial bonds, and ultimately, vindication and redemption.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. The Trial and Conviction of Paul Zenber

[06:18 – 09:24]

• Setting: Excalibur; Paul Zenber, a drifter, is on trial for the murder of Zeke Martin.
• Paul offers an alibi: Claims he was playing poker with three men at the Black Casino during the murder.
• Key Moment:
  • Judge McKesson: "The evidence presented against you in this court has been purely circumstantial. Haven't you any alibi to offer in your defense?" (07:01)
  • The three men (Cole Rankin, Lem Parsons, Seth Hollins) deny knowing Paul, leading to his conviction.
  • Memorable Paul Zenber quote: "You men are lying and you're hanging me. You're just the same as murders." (08:21)

2. A Year Passes: The Birthday Murders Begin

[09:51 – 12:15]

• Cole Rankin is poisoned at his birthday celebration.
• Lem Parsons is found stabbed by his wife on his birthday.
• Seth Hollins is shot during his own birthday festivities.
• Townspeople become fearful and demand answers from the authorities.

3. Community Outrage and Theories

[13:09 – 14:57]

• The citizens confront Sheriff Tim Runyon during a meeting.
• Accusations emerge that Paul Zenber, convicted thanks to the testimony of the now-murdered men, is the birthday killer.
• Quote:
  • Shane (townsman): "Rankin, Parsons and Hollins all testified against Paul Zimber at his trial. Due to their say so, Zimber was convicted of murder on his birthday. All three of them men died on their birthdays. Why, it's as plain as daylight who the killer is." (14:04)

4. The Lone Ranger and Tonto Begin Investigating

[15:51 – 17:56]

• The Lone Ranger encourages the town to give Sheriff Runyon a fair chance.
• Tensions rise; the Lone Ranger and Tonto narrowly escape a mob.
• The Lone Ranger suspects Zenber may have escaped prison and is seeking revenge, but also doubts the obvious.

5. Tim Runyon Loses His Badge

[16:28 – 17:59]

• Tim Runyon, removed as Sheriff in favor of a man named Hook, prepares to leave town.
• The Lone Ranger reassures him: "I'm here to help you get that badge back... Shane and Hook worked together to get the crowd to vote you out... I wonder why." (17:09)
• The Lone Ranger suspects Hook and Shane have ulterior motives and warns Judge McKesson of potential danger.

6. Revelations at Judge McKesson's Home

[22:01 – 24:48]

• The Lone Ranger warns the judge and his daughter Jane.
• Jane fears her father might be the next victim since he presided over Zenber's trial.
• Key Moment:
  • The Lone Ranger: "You may be next on the murderer's list." (24:02)
• It's revealed that Zenber was sentenced to life in prison on his birthday, and now the murders are happening on others' birthdays.

7. Major Twists & Investigation Breakthroughs

[25:11 – 26:08]

• Tonto returns: Zenber did escape prison four months ago (25:22).
• Shocking twist: Zenber is Judge McKesson's lost son (25:33).
• The warden's message about the escape was supposed to reach the sheriff but was intercepted by Hook (25:54).

8. The Real Murderers Caught

[26:22 – 29:42]

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto stake out the mining company's office.
• Shane and Hook are found blowing the safe to conceal evidence of their guilt and partnership with the murdered men.
• Key Confession:
  • Shane: "Them three partners of mine left me for dead 10 years ago... That's why you killed them all, huh?... To get back my share in the mine." (27:13–27:44)
  • They were framing Zenber and using the pattern of birthday killings to mislead suspicion.
• With evidence and confession at hand, the Lone Ranger successfully apprehends the culprits.

9. Resolution and Emotional Finale

[29:42 – 34:19]

• Judge McKesson, wracked with guilt, almost commits suicide to protect his son—but is stopped by the Lone Ranger, revealing that Paul Zenber (his son) is dead and was innocent.
• Powerful Statement:
  • Judge McKesson: "The hardest task I ever had was to sentence my son to prison. Then not long ago, I learned that Paul was innocent... I wanted to make amends." (32:48)
  • The Lone Ranger assures him the real murderers have been caught and the truth will come out.
• Jane learns Paul was her brother; deep family emotion is revealed.
• The Lone Ranger departs quietly, his identity and reputation remaining legendary.
  • "He's gone." (Jane, 33:46)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “You men are lying and you're hanging me. You're just the same as murders.” – Paul Zenber (08:21)
• "Rankin, Parsons and Hollins all testified against Paul Zimber at his trial… All three of them men died on their birthdays." – Shane (14:04)
• "Tim, I don't know who you are, but I've left something on your desk that may tell you something. A silver bullet." – The Lone Ranger (17:54–17:59)
• "Zenber. Judge McKesson's son. Are you sure?" – The Lone Ranger (25:33)
• "Them three partners of mine left me for dead 10 years ago… that's why you killed them all, huh?" – Hook and Shane (27:13–27:44)
• "The hardest task I ever had was to sentence my son to prison. Then not long ago, I learned that Paul was innocent." – Judge McKesson (32:48)
• "He’s gone." – Jane (33:46)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Trial and conviction of Zenber: [06:18–09:24]
• First string of birthday murders: [09:51–12:15]
• Town hall confrontation: [13:09–14:57]
• Lone Ranger and Tonto step in: [15:51–17:56]
• Meeting at the judge’s house: [22:01–24:48]
• Zenber’s escape and family reveal: [25:11–26:08]
• Shane and Hook’s confession: [27:06–28:46]
• Emotional finale and justice: [29:42–34:19]

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Overall Tone & Feel

The episode is a classic Western melodrama: tense, reflective, and rich with period dialogue, moral dilemmas, and thrilling action. The Lone Ranger is calm yet commanding, showing clarity, empathy, and steadfast dedication to justice, while supporting characters bring out the emotional consequences of law, vengeance, and family secrets in a close-knit frontier town.

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Summary

“Murder Strikes Thrice” draws listeners into the heart of Western storytelling: betrayal, sacrifice, and the ultimate triumph of truth. The digitally restored audio brings renewed depth to every clattering hoof and emotional confrontation, making this retelling as immersive and gripping as the original broadcasts.

For longtime Lone Ranger fans or newcomers alike, it's a prime example of why these shows endure—thanks to their masterful suspense, timeless themes, and unforgettable characters riding the winds of justice.

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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]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust, and a hearty hi silver the lone ranger.

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Last year I went through many different life changes. I needed to take a pause and examine how I was feeling in the inside to better show up for the ones who need me to be my best version of myself.

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When you're navigating life's changes, Talkspace can help. Talkspace is the number one rated online therapy, bringing you professional support from licensed therapists and psychiatry providers that you can access anytime, anywhere.

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Living a busy life, navigating a long distance relationship, becoming a first stepfather, Talkspace made all of those journeys possible.

I could speak with my therapist in the office. I could speak of my therapist in the comfort of my home. I was never alone.

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tato, the masked rider of the planes led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. The stories of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, have come down to us through the generations. And 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 hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Shane]

Come on, Silver. There's murder on the trail ahead.

[Jane]

I'll sail away.

[Narrator]

Excitement rippled through the hot, dusty town of Excalibur like a refreshing breeze. The tense whispers of men and women gathered on street corners and house steps rose and fell in the thick summer heat. Suddenly there was a hush as a bell tolled, and all eyes looked toward the courthouse. Paul Zenber, a young vagrant and stranger to the town, was on trial for his life for the murder of old Zeke Martin.

[Judge McKesson]

Order. Order in the court.

[Narrator]

Judge McKesson, his voice lined with emotion that he struggled to conceal, leaned forward from his bench and looked down at the defendant.

[Judge McKesson]

Zimbabwe.

The evidence presented against you in this court has been purely circumstantial.

Haven't you any alibi to offer in your defense?

[Paul Zenber]

I didn't kill him, Judge. I swear I didn't. I was playing poker when Martin was killed.

[Judge McKesson]

You mean you were playing poker at the time of the murder?

[Paul Zenber]

Yes. I was playing with three men at the Black Casino. That's how I got that money. The court accused me of stealing from the old man. I wanted fair and square.

[Judge McKesson]

That sounds like a reasonable alibi.

Would you recognize these men if you saw them again?

[Paul Zenber]

Sure I would.

[Judge McKesson]

Do you know where to find them?

[Paul Zenber]

They're sitting right in the courtroom, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

You say those men are here in this court?

[Cole Rankin]

Yes.

[Judge McKesson]

Where are they?

[Paul Zenber]

There they Are sitting right there.

[Shane]

It's a lie charge.

[Cole Rankin]

We never saw the kid before. That's right, judge.

[Shane]

You never let eyes on until this.

[Lem Parsons]

You're lying.

[Paul Zenber]

All of you.

[Lem Parsons]

You're lying.

[Cole Rankin]

What's the matter with you?

[Shane]

Order.

[Judge McKesson]

Order in the court. You three men come up here. What are your names?

[Cole Rankin]

Cole Rankin, your honor. Lem Parsons.

[Shane]

Seth Holland's at your service, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

You deny that you played poker with the defendant, Paul Zimbier in the Black casino the night of the murder?

[Cole Rankin]

We do, your honor. We ain't been in the Black casino since it opened.

[Paul Zenber]

He's lying, Judge. I swear it. That money they accused me of taking from Zeke Martin, I want it from these men. It's the truth, Judge. You've got to believe me. I didn't murder any old man.

[Shane]

The kid's daffy, Judge. Who wasn't anywhere near the Black casino the night of the killing.

[Cole Rankin]

That's right, you, Honor.

[Paul Zenber]

You men are lying and you're hanging me. You're just the same as murders.

[Narrator]

Let's get out of here, Liam.

[Cole Rankin]

I need a drink.

[Narrator]

One year passed as the three men pushed their way through the excited courtroom. A grim faced man with small shrewd eyes pulled his hat lower over his features and watched them pass. Then, as the clock ticked away what seemed a lifetime to the crowd which tensely awaited the outcome, the trial came to an end.

[Judge McKesson]

A defendant will rise and face the court. Hall Zimba, you have been found guilty of murder.

It is my duty to sentence you for the term of your natural life

to the state prison.

[Shane]

Life.

[Judge McKesson]

Prison.

[Tim Runyon]

Come along, Zenber.

[Paul Zenber]

But I am innocent, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes, Zember.

[The Lone Ranger]

I just want to thank you, Judge.

[Paul Zenber]

You and those three men who framed me. Today is my birthday. Thanks for the birthday present.

[Narrator]

One year passed in the town of Excalibur. The case of Paul Zenber was virtually forgotten. Then one night, Cole Rankin was celebrating his birthday with friends.

[Lem Parsons]

Happy birthday, Cole.

[Shane]

Speech.

[Cole Rankin]

Speech. Oh, no, no.

[Lem Parsons]

Give us a toast.

[Cole Rankin]

Here, Cole. Here's a drink. Now give us a toast.

[Lem Parsons]

Come on, Cole, don't be bashful.

[Cole Rankin]

Well, I ain't much on speech making, folks, but here's hoping you're all as happy on your birthday as I am on mine. Drink out. Cole drank that liquor and passed out like he was poisoned.

[Narrator]

Lem Parsons slept late the morning of his birthday. His wife, knowing him to be an early riser, wondered at this and finally went up to wake him.

[Cole Rankin]

Lem.

[Jane]

Lem, wake up. It's almost noon.

Don't drap that man. Wasting half his own Birthday? Lem, get up.

It's your birthday, Lem.

A knife.

Lem's been knifed.

[Narrator]

Seth Hollins began celebrating his birthday in a cafe. But he didn't seem to be enjoying it.

[Shane]

Step up to the bar, boys. The drinks are on me.

[Lem Parsons]

Sure enough, Seth. Be right with you.

[Cole Rankin]

What are we drinking to, Seth?

[Shane]

My birthday.

[Lem Parsons]

Your birthday? You don't look very happy about it, Seth.

[Cole Rankin]

I don't blame him. Look at what happened to Cole Rankin and Lem Parsons on their birthdays.

[Lem Parsons]

Yeah, that's right. Forgot about that.

[Shane]

There was just accidents. Nothing's gonna happen to me.

[Cole Rankin]

Of course not, Seth. Well, here's to you.

[Shane]

Yeah.

[Lem Parsons]

Many happy returns of the day.

[Shane]

Well, guess I'd better be going. Promised the wife I'd take her to the new tent show tonight.

[Cole Rankin]

Sure. We know how it is, Seth.

[Shane]

We'll see all you boys later.

[Lem Parsons]

Sure, Seth. Have a good time at the show. Give our regards to the missus.

[Cole Rankin]

His birthday, eh? I wouldn't be in Seth Holland's shoes tonight for all the gold west of the Panhandle. What was that? Sounded like a gun.

[Paul Zenber]

Somebody just shot Seth Hollins.

[Narrator]

Once again, the hot, dusty streets of Excalibur buzzed with excitement. This time over three murders. The Lone Ranger saw the story of the sudden deaths in a copy of the local paper. And took it with him to camp near town.

[The Lone Ranger]

What papers say doesn't tell a great deal more than we already know, Tonto. Three men were murdered. All three, but the same man. The fact that each was killed on his birthday proves that. But why on their birthdays may not know. All right, Tanto. I'd certainly like to. Now, wait. What? The last paragraph says that the Good Citizens League of Excalibur Is holding a meeting tonight to protest the murders.

[Judge McKesson]

Order.

[Shane]

Order.

[Judge McKesson]

I mean to conduct this meeting in an orderly and respectable manner. Those of you who are unable to comply are invited to leave at once.

[Shane]

We don't mean to be troublesome, Judge. We came here to find out what's being done about their murders. We don't aim to leave till we do.

[Paul Zenber]

Shane speaks for all of us, Judge.

[Lem Parsons]

That's right, Judge. We want action.

[Judge McKesson]

Very well, Shane. But I suggest that you address your remarks to Sheriff Tim Runyon like a gentleman.

[Shane]

Well, Sheriff? What about it, Shane?

[Judge McKesson]

All of you.

[Tim Runyon]

I've told you, I'm doing my best

[Shane]

to solve the murder.

[Paul Zenber]

Well, your best isn't good enough, Sheriff. Cole Rankin was poisoned more than three months ago. And you haven't arrested the Jasper that did it yet.

[Shane]

Looks right. Chef Glenn Parsons Was stabbed. And you haven't done anything about that either?

[Lem Parsons]

No.

[Cole Rankin]

And now Seth Hollins has been shot. It's getting so this town ain't safe to live in anymore. What are you aiming to do about it, Sheriff?

[Shane]

You only give me a chance. Out, Sheriff.

[Paul Zenber]

Had your chance, Sheriff. Rankin, Parsons and Hollins all testified against Paul Zamber at his trial. Due to their say so, Zamber was convicted of murder on his birthday. All three of them men died on their birthdays. Why, it's as plain as daylight who the killer is.

[Lem Parsons]

Sure, I remember when the kids said it at the trial.

[Tim Runyon]

I've already considered Zander Hook. He can't be the murderer. He's in the state prison.

[Shane]

Are you sure?

[Judge McKesson]

Of course, Tim, sure. He was sent to prison for life. I sentenced him myself.

[The Lone Ranger]

Maybe he escaped.

[Lem Parsons]

Nonsense.

[Judge McKesson]

If he had, the prison would have notified the sheriff to be on the lookout.

[Paul Zenber]

Maybe it did, Judge. And the sheriff neglected to tell you. Cause he didn't want to admit he couldn't catch up with Zenberg.

[Lem Parsons]

That's a lie.

[Cole Rankin]

Don't make no difference. Sheriff. You got to admit Hook's got an angle on this case and you ain't.

[Shane]

We're asking you to step down and surrender that star. Sheriff, if you aren't man enough to catch Zemba, we'll appoint someone who is.

[Lem Parsons]

We're with you, Shane. Let's make Hook sheriff.

[Shane]

Oh, wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why don't you give your sheriff a chance?

[Cole Rankin]

It's a mask, man.

[Lem Parsons]

Yeah.

[Shane]

Look who's with him.

[The Lone Ranger]

An Injun.

[Shane]

What's that you said, stranger?

[The Lone Ranger]

I know about Tim Runyon. He's entitled to that Star.

[Paul Zenber]

You got no call button into business. That don't concern you, stranger.

[Shane]

A masked man and an engine. That's a mighty odd combination, huh, boys? Maybe they're working with Zempers. What are we waiting for?

[Cole Rankin]

Let's get them.

[Shane]

Come on.

[Paul Zenber]

Through that window.

[Cole Rankin]

They're swinging on the auction.

[Shane]

Let me draw a bead on them. Come on, silver, get them.

[Narrator]

Thundering into the night, the silver shod hoofs of the great white stallion and the flying feet of the paint soon out distanced any thought of pursuit.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Toto, they're out of sight.

[Lem Parsons]

Slow down.

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, Silver.

[Lem Parsons]

Easy, boy.

[Cole Rankin]

Steady, fella, steady.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, everything seems to point to Paul Zenber as the killer. Zenber must have escaped from prison. Returned here for revenge on the men who convicted him.

[Cole Rankin]

And what we do now, we're going

[The Lone Ranger]

to make sure of that fact. Kimo Sabe, he ran to the prison where Zember was sent. Find out all you can about him. I've got another job to do.

[Cole Rankin]

Tanto sabi.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll meet at the campus camp.

[Shane]

So we're heading back to town.

[Narrator]

Late that night, Tim Runyon was packing his belongings preparatory to taking leave of the sheriff's office in the town jail when he heard the door open stealthily.

[Tim Runyon]

Who is it? I'll make a move or I'll shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

You don't have to hold a gun on me. Tim. Oh, it's you. I wanted to talk with you.

[Cole Rankin]

Who are you?

[Tim Runyon]

At the meeting tonight, you said you knew about me.

[The Lone Ranger]

I do, Tim. You've been doing fine work in Excalibur. Men like you who are upholding law and order in the West.

[Tim Runyon]

Not anymore, I'm not.

[The Lone Ranger]

What do you mean?

[Tim Runyon]

They took away my star. After you left the meeting. He gave it to Hook.

[The Lone Ranger]

So Hook is sheriff now?

[Tim Runyon]

I know when I'm not wanted. I'm clearing out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't be hasty, Tim. I'm here to help you get that badge back. Well, Shane and Hook worked together to get the crowd to vote you out of office and Hook in. I wonder why.

[Tim Runyon]

I. I don't know.

[The Lone Ranger]

They were pretty anxious to pin the murders on Zember, too.

[Tim Runyon]

But if it was Zember, the state prison would have notified me of his escape.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll soon know whether Zember is in prison or out, tim. Meanwhile, Judge McKesson must be warned.

[Tim Runyon]

Warned?

[Judge McKesson]

What about?

[The Lone Ranger]

Judge McKesson is even more responsible for Zenberg's being sentenced to prison and the three men who were murdered. He may be the next victim.

[Tim Runyon]

I'll go with you. The judge is my friend. His daughter Jane and I are.

[The Lone Ranger]

I mean, I understand him. She'd better wait here. The judge may be concerned that you're investigating the case now that Hook is sheriff.

[Tim Runyon]

But I. I don't even know who you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've left something on your desk that may tell you something.

[Tim Runyon]

On my desk? What? A silver bullet. A silver bullet, a mask, and a white stallion. The Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

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

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[Talkspace Host]

When you're navigating life's changes, Talkspace can help. Talkspace is the number one rated online therapy, bringing you professional support from licensed therapists. And psychiatry providers that you can access anytime, anywhere.

[Talkspace User Testimonial]

Living a busy life, navigating a long distance relationship, becoming a first stepfather, Talkspace made all of those journeys possible.

I could speak with my therapist in the office. I could speak with my therapist in the comfort of my home. I was never alone.

[Talkspace Host]

Talkspace works with most major insurers and most insured members have a $0 copay. No insurance, no problem. Now get $80 off your first month with promo code space80 when you go to talkspace.com match with a licensed therapist today at talkspace.com save $80 with code

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[Jane]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. As the Lone Ranger rode toward the McKesson ranch to warn the judge against the dreaded killer, the old gentleman listened patiently to his daughter Jane in their parlor.

[Jane]

But dad, you promised me you'd be careful.

[Judge McKesson]

I am careful, Jane.

[Jane]

No, you're not. Not when you return to the ranch after midnight.

Alone.

[Judge McKesson]

Come out, Jane. I'm not a child, you know. Besides, I didn't realize the meeting would last so long.

[Jane]

Aw, dad.

You know how I worry about you. After those three men were murdered, I. I just had a horrible feeling that.

That you'd be next.

[Judge McKesson]

Oh, now what put that fool idea into your pretty head?

[Jane]

It's not a fool idea, dad.

Those three men testified against Paul Zenber at his trial. And you were the judge who sentenced him.

Oh.

Why'd they take away Tim Starr? I was counting on Tim to help me protect you.

[Judge McKesson]

You're in love with Tim, aren't you?

[Jane]

I guess I am dead.

[Judge McKesson]

I'm glad, Gene. Tim's a mighty fine boy.

[Jane]

Thanks. Tim thinks a lot of you, too.

[Judge McKesson]

Gentlemen.

[Jane]

Yes, dad?

[Judge McKesson]

If anything should happen to me, I want you to take this key. It unlocks a box of my name at the bank.

[Jane]

Dad, what are you saying? You don't really think that.

[Judge McKesson]

Of course not, Jane.

It's just that I.

[Jane]

Who's that?

[Judge McKesson]

I don't know. It's pretty late for anyone to come calling.

[Jane]

Don't go near that window.

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[Judge McKesson]

Gene, what's Come on, Gene, put down that rifle.

[Jane]

It's a mask, man. Dad, you can see him in the moonlight. I'll bet it's the same man you told me escaped the meeting.

[Judge McKesson]

Jane, what are you doing?

[Jane]

He's riding up to the house, Jane.

[Judge McKesson]

Jade, put down that gun.

[Shane]

Tim Runyon.

[Jane]

Dad, did you hear? He's come from Tim. Well, come ahead, stranger, but keep your hands up.

Open the door, dad.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good evening, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

Good evening.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tim told me about you. Who were you expecting when you took that shot at me? Jane?

[Jane]

Well, I didn't.

[Judge McKesson]

She had a crazy idea the birthday murder was coming for me.

[The Lone Ranger]

It isn't a crazy idea, Judge.

[Jane]

There, you see?

[Judge McKesson]

I'm afraid I don't understand.

[The Lone Ranger]

You may be next on the murderer's list.

[Judge McKesson]

Why would the murder want to kill me?

[The Lone Ranger]

For the same reason he killed the other three. Revenge.

[Judge McKesson]

Then you think Paul Zender is a

[The Lone Ranger]

murderer too, don't you? When is your birthday, Judge?

[Jane]

Well, you don't think that.

[The Lone Ranger]

You can't be too careful, Jane.

[Judge McKesson]

It's Wednesday.

[The Lone Ranger]

Wednesday? That gives us a week before we can expect a murderer to strike here.

[Jane]

Oh, what makes you think he'll wait

to strike a dead on his birthday?

What if he strikes before?

[The Lone Ranger]

He won't, Jane. Zenberg was sentenced to prison on his birthday. Apparently he seeks revenge by murdering the men who sent him there on their birthdays.

[Jane]

Oh, dad, what'll we do?

[Judge McKesson]

There's only one thing we can do, Jane. Stay here and face it.

[Jane]

Oh, no.

[Judge McKesson]

What are your plans, stranger?

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll hear from me, Judge. Adios.

[Narrator]

Four days later, a few miles from the camp, the Lone Ranger awaited Tonto's return home.

[The Lone Ranger]

What did you learn, Tado? Must be important to make your ride scout so hard.

[Cole Rankin]

Plenty important. Tanto bring big news.

[The Lone Ranger]

What is it? Kimosabe Zenberg.

[Cole Rankin]

Himscaped prison.

[The Lone Ranger]

How long ago?

[Cole Rankin]

Warden say four months.

[The Lone Ranger]

That would give him plenty of time to return to Excalibur and murder the three men who testified against him, huh?

[Cole Rankin]

But that not the only news.

[The Lone Ranger]

What else did you learn?

[Cole Rankin]

Tado Zember. Him judge's son.

[The Lone Ranger]

Zenber. Judge McKesson's son. Are you sure?

[Cole Rankin]

Judge make visit to prison after Zenber make getaway. Him bring pardon.

[The Lone Ranger]

You mean Zenber was innocent of the murder, huh? No wonder he wants revenge. Toddo, his fourth victim will be his own father. We better head for town. Come on, Silver.

[Cole Rankin]

Come on, Scout.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why didn't the warden notify Sheriff Tim Runyon of Zenber's escape?

[Cole Rankin]

Him same send message by man named Hook.

[Shane]

Hook?

[Cole Rankin]

Ah, him, Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, Hook took care not to deliver the message. I have a hunch he and Shane are mixed up in these murders. Toto. They're as thick as thieves. All right, Silver.

[Lem Parsons]

Let's go.

[Cole Rankin]

Kennemons come.

[Narrator]

That night and the following day. The Lone Ranger in Tonto carefully observed the movements of the new sheriff and his friend. And late the following night, their vigil was rewarded.

[The Lone Ranger]

They went into the office of the mining company.

[Tim Runyon]

Tonto.

[The Lone Ranger]

That company was owned by the three men who were murdered. This may be the lead we've been looking for.

[Hook]

Come on.

[Jane]

There.

Look.

[Tim Runyon]

Tunnel.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's Shane and Hook in the back. Let's get closer so we can listen. Hold that candle steady, Hook. I thought I thought I heard somebody saying. You got the shakes, Hook? Give me some more head, Connor.

[Hook]

You're sure nobody'll hear it when you blow the safe sheet?

[Judge McKesson]

Yeah, it ain't big enough to make a real explosion.

[Hook]

I still don't see what you have to do.

[Shane]

I told you once his records are not safe. Naming me as a partner in the mine. Along with Rankin, Parsons and Hollins. If anybody sees them but us, they'll stop suspecting Zembra as the murderer and start suspicioning me.

[Hook]

Then why didn't you get him before?

[Shane]

Them three partners of mine left me for dead 10 years ago when they cheated me out of my share. They found the records missing. They'd have known I was alive and turned me into the sheriff.

[Hook]

Oh, that's why you killed them all, huh?

[Shane]

Yeah, that to get back my share in the mine. And now I'm taking over the company.

[Hook]

What was that?

[Shane]

Just your nerves, Hook. Take it easier. You'll get yourself a mess of goose pimples.

[Hook]

I'm regretting they ever let you get me into this.

[Shane]

You're getting paid, aren't you?

[Hook]

Yeah, but Why'd they have to vote me any shave?

[Shane]

Because Tim Runyon was getting too curious. He was planning to examine the papers in that safe for a clue to the killer after Rollins died.

[Hook]

What will everybody say when they learn the safe's been blown?

[Shane]

You say Zimba did it, Hook. See, I'm leaving his pocket knife with the kid's initials, PZ Right here on the floor for you to find.

[Hook]

Did you take that knife off the kid's body after you killed him?

[Shane]

Yeah. Hand me some more of that, Potter, Okay.

[Hook]

You sure are a slick one, Shane. Murdering your three partners and then framing his embers. Escaped from jail to make it appear he did it.

[Shane]

Yeah, on their birthdays too. That way them killings led right to

[The Lone Ranger]

the King kid's door.

[Shane]

Being six feet under himself, he'll never show up with an alibi.

[Hook]

Just the same, I never have agreed to freeze Ember if I'd known you meant to murder the kid.

[Shane]

You got paid a mighty fancy bribe for that, Hook. More than you made in a year as prison deputy.

[Hook]

I'm not complaining about the money, Shane. But I didn't know I was putting my neck in a noose.

[Shane]

All right, stop worrying. Give me the willies. I can't prove nothing against you.

[The Lone Ranger]

No?

[Hook]

Well, if the warden learns I never delivered his message to Tim Runyon about Zenberg's keeping.

[Shane]

He won't. Besides, it was necessary to keep running from warming my three ex partners before I could get to him.

[Hook]

Yeah, but I can't help feeling that.

[Shane]

Step back, Hook. I'm gonna blow this thing up.

[Cole Rankin]

All right, Tuttle.

[Paul Zenber]

What the ten master man.

[Shane]

Shane, no, you don't hold my arm. Drill up, Hook. He'll hang us. He picks you.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good work, kimosabe.

[Shane]

You've got nothing on us.

[The Lone Ranger]

We've got plenty, Shane. The record's in that safe. And Zenberg's pocket knife clinch you as a birthday killer. You can tell your story to the sheriff. You ousted Tim Runyon. Get the keys from Hook's pocketado. We lock these two in their own jail.

[Narrator]

Early the next day. The day before the judge's birthday, the old gentleman was alone with Jane in their parlor.

[Jane]

Oh, Dad, I wish this suspense were over. Your birthday's tomorrow.

[Judge McKesson]

It will be soon. Jane.

[Jane]

Dad, you sure you're all right?

[Judge McKesson]

Of course, child. Why shouldn't I be?

[Jane]

I don't know. I'm just nervous, I guess. Only, well, you've been acting so strange lately, says Jane.

[Judge McKesson]

It's just your imagination.

[Jane]

Yes, I guess you're right.

[Judge McKesson]

Jean. Yes, Gina? I Want you to go into town.

[Jane]

Town?

Why?

[Judge McKesson]

Hey, I need some pipe tobacco.

[Jane]

But I just filled your tobacco jar yesterday.

[Judge McKesson]

Gina. I want to be alone.

[Jane]

Dad, you don't expect a murderer today.

[Judge McKesson]

No, no, it's not that. Jean,

please go.

[Jane]

All right, dad, if it'll make you feel better. Take care of yourself, darling.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, Jane rode away from the ranch house and anxiously headed her horse toward town. Suddenly, she heard hoofbeats and saw the Lone Ranger, Tonto and Tim approaching.

[Jane]

Whoa. Oh, boy. Tim. Oh, Tim.

[Tim Runyon]

What are you doing here?

[Jane]

Tim, I was riding to see. I'm so worried, Jane. It's Dad. He's acting so strange. He asked me to leave the house so he could be alone.

[Tim Runyon]

Leave the house? Well, that's funny.

[Jane]

Tim, if anything happens to Dad, I.

[Tim Runyon]

Nothing will, honey. You leave it to the Lone Ranger.

[Jane]

The Lone Ranger? You mean.

[Shane]

Sure.

[Tim Runyon]

Didn't you know?

[Jane]

Thank heaven my aim was bad the night I shot at you from the house.

Dad.

[Shane]

Come on, Silver.

[Jane]

Shut up.

[Narrator]

Through the door of the ranch house rushed the Lone Ranger with the others close on his heels.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll take that pistol, Judge.

[Jane]

Dad, are you. Dad, you were going to shoot yourself.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes, Jane, I was. But this pistol is loaded with blanks. I tried the gun before. I put it to my head.

[The Lone Ranger]

I put them there, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

You?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I suspected you might try to take your own life to shield your son from punishment as a birthday murderer.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes. I wrote this suicide note confessing to the murders myself.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going to destroy this note, Judge. Your son didn't kill those men. The real murderer has confessed. Your. Your son is dead, Judge. Paul Zenber was also killed by the murderer.

[Judge McKesson]

Paul did.

[Jane]

Paul Zinber was my brother?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, Jane. His real name was Paul McKesson. I think you'd better tell her the rest, Judge.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes. You were just a child when Paul ran away from home, Jane. I thought he had died. And at the trial, I saw that Paul Zinder was my son, grown up.

[Jane]

Oh, dad.

[Tim Runyon]

Hold on to my hand, honey.

[Judge McKesson]

The hardest task I ever had was to sentence my son to prison. Then not long ago, I learned that Paul was innocent. Confirmed killer who was scheduled to die came to being confessed to Zeke Martin's murder.

[The Lone Ranger]

And the three men who testified against Paul lied.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes. I went to the prison to have Paul released, to welcome him home as my son.

They told me he'd escaped.

[Jane]

Oh, dad, don't.

[Judge McKesson]

Those three men were murdered. Everyone believed Paul had returned here for revenge. I came to believe it myself. I wanted to make amends to him for sending him to prison when he was innocent, for making him a murderer.

I decided to clear my son by

confessing to the murders myself. Then.

[Jane]

Then the Lone Ranger saved your life. I'll never stop thanking you. He's gone.

[Judge McKesson]

Yes, Jane, he's gone.

[Jane]

I'll soon. Sam.

[Shane]

Foreign.

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[The Lone Ranger]

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[ZipRecruiter Advertiser]

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[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 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 right have a great day and thanks for listening.

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