Neal Butler’s Stage Ride | The Lone Ranger (10-13-39)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: Neal Butler’s Stage Ride | The Lone Ranger (10-13-39)
Host: Andrew Rhines
Release Date: February 1, 2025

---

Introduction

In this gripping episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhines presents a digitally restored classic Western radio drama from October 13, 1939, titled Neal Butler’s Stage Ride. This installment features the legendary masked hero, The Lone Ranger, as he delves into a tale of tragedy, redemption, and justice on the perilous trails of the Wild West.

---

Setting the Scene

The episode opens with a vivid description of the treacherous stage routes in the early western United States, highlighting the constant threat of outlaws and the challenging terrain:

Narrator [04:27]: "Travel was dangerous in the early days of the western United States. The stage routes crossed rough country where outlaws made their hideout, and the trails themselves were poorly marked and so narrow that only an expert could handle the lumbering coaches."

This sets the stage for the introduction of The Lone Ranger, whose mission is to bring safety and justice to these lawless areas.

---

Neal Butler's Turmoil

The central character, Neal Butler, is introduced in a state of distress:

Narrator [05:25]: "Neil Butler had slumped to his bed, far too exhausted to undress. But in spite of his exhaustion, he soon began to toss and turn, muttering in his sleep."

Neal is haunted by guilt over a tragic accident that occurred during his time as a stage driver, where a storm led to a disastrous derailment resulting in the deaths of passengers and fellow guards. His torment is palpable as he grapples with nightmares and the relentless accusations from the townsfolk:

Neal Butler [05:49]: "The devils can't sleep. Always seeing them. I'm hearing them going crazy. Get away."

---

The Rescue

The Lone Ranger intervenes as Neal's despair deepens. Leading his trusted horse, Silver, and his Native American companion, Tonto, The Lone Ranger locates Neal and attempts to comfort him:

Lone Ranger [07:24]: "Silver."

Narrator [07:39]: "Two hours later, a blanket clutched to his shoulders, Neil Butler stared glumly into the campfire the masked man had built."

The Lone Ranger encourages Neal to share his story, believing that understanding the past is key to moving forward:

Lone Ranger [08:07]: "It won't harm you unless you have something to hide."

Neal reluctantly begins to recount the harrowing events that led to the accident, providing crucial details about the stage ride and the severe weather conditions that plagued their journey.

---

Unraveling the Mystery

As Neal narrates, flashbacks reveal the tense atmosphere during the fateful stage ride. The severe storm, slippery trails, and Neal's determination to uphold his duty despite warnings create a backdrop ripe for disaster:

Neal Butler [09:56]: "Maybe I don't take the stage on weather like this as a rule, but them passengers inside was dead set on getting through."

The Lone Ranger discerns that the accident may not have been a mere result of poor judgment but hints at possible foul play intended to sabotage the stage route and rob the carriage of its valuable cargo.

---

Confrontation with Jensen

The plot thickens as The Lone Ranger and Neal follow the damaged trail to uncover evidence of deliberate tampering. Their investigation leads them to Jensen, a former colleague who appears suspiciously wealthy despite his modest past:

Lone Ranger [16:25]: "You understand that this goes to prove the trail had been deliberately weakened before you came over it with a stage."

Confronting Jensen, it becomes evident that he orchestrated the accident to steal a large sum of money being transported by the stagecoach. The tension culminates in a dramatic showdown where Jensen admits his guilt but pleads for mercy:

Jensen [28:47]: "I did it. I admit it. But I don't want to die."

The Lone Ranger swiftly neutralizes the threat, ensuring Jensen faces justice while clearing Neal's name.

---

Resolution

With Jensen apprehended and the truth unveiled, Neal Butler is relieved of the wrongful accusations against him. The Lone Ranger's intervention not only restores Neal's reputation but also reaffirms the masked hero's commitment to protecting the innocent and upholding justice in the Wild West:

Lone Ranger [30:45]: "Neil is cleared."

Neal expresses his gratitude to The Lone Ranger, acknowledging the hero's pivotal role in resolving his turmoil:

Neal Butler [30:45]: "You're done more for me already than I can ever replace."

---

Conclusion

Neal Butler’s Stage Ride is a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of guilt, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Through the masterful restoration, listeners are transported back to the golden age of radio Westerns, experiencing enhanced audio that brings the Wild West to life with vivid soundscapes and authentic performances. Andrew Rhines successfully honors the legacy of iconic shows like The Lone Ranger, delivering a timeless story that resonates with both new audiences and longtime fans.

---

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger [08:07]: "It won't harm you unless you have something to hide." (08:07)

• Neal Butler [05:49]: "The devils can't sleep. Always seeing them. I'm hearing them going crazy. Get away." (05:49)

• Jensen [28:47]: "I did it. I admit it. But I don't want to die." (28:47)

• Neal Butler [30:45]: "You're done more for me already than I can ever replace." (30:45)

---

This episode exemplifies the enduring appeal of Western dramas, combining suspenseful storytelling with rich character development. Whether you're a seasoned listener or new to Old Time Radio Westerns, Neal Butler’s Stage Ride offers an immersive experience into the heart of the Wild West.

Transcript

[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@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you.

[Narrator]

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 hail.

[Lone Ranger]

Silver the Lone Ranger.

[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.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts 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.

[Lone Ranger]

Travel was dangerous in the early days of the western United States. The stage routes crossed rough country where outlaws made their hideout, and the trails themselves were poorly marked and so narrow that only an expert could handle the lumbering coaches.

[Narrator]

It was not until the masked rider.

[Lone Ranger]

Of the plane started his great fight.

[Narrator]

For justice that the fear of outlaws was removed, and it was his knowledge.

[Lone Ranger]

Of the country which led to the choice of safer routes.

[Narrator]

Return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young and adventure lay at the end of every trail.

[Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Narrator]

Hello, Silver. We're heading west for El Laredo. Hello, Silver. Away.

[Lone Ranger]

Neil Butler had slumped to his bed, far too exhausted to undress. But in spite of his Exhaustion. He soon began to toss and turn, mutter in his sleep.

[Narrator]

Neil Butler. You killed them.

[Neil Butler]

Neil Butler.

[Narrator]

You killed them. Both of them.

[Neil Butler]

No, I didn't. Oh, no. Oh, no, it's a lie. Oh, no, it's a lie. I didn't know. I didn't. I didn't know. The devils can't sleep. Always seeing them. I'm hearing them going crazy. Get away.

[Narrator]

I'm going out. Don't stop, baby. Come back, Neil. It's only a dream. Don't try to stop it. Neil, stop.

[Neil Butler]

Come back.

[Narrator]

Neil. Neil.

[Neil Butler]

Neil, listen to me.

[Lone Ranger]

Can't you hear me?

[Neil Butler]

Come back.

[Narrator]

Come on. Set scout. I think there's a trail ahead. Tado her. Follow it to the west. It should be the trail to Alborido.

[Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Narrator]

Come on, old fellow. Hurry, boy. Steady, Silver. Steady, boy. Hold steady.

[Lone Ranger]

What's the matter, old fellow?

[Narrator]

What is it? Silver Their man.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, that's why the horse is pulled up.

[Narrator]

Let's have a look at him.

[Lone Ranger]

Something's wrong here.

[Neil Butler]

Maybe him shot.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll soon find out. Nothing here. Help me turn him over. No wound.

[Neil Butler]

Him just tired out.

[Lone Ranger]

That's what it looks like. Fellas exhausted. Well, Alvarado will have to wait. Kimasabe, what we do? We may camp and try to bring this fellow around. Give me a hand. I'll put him on.

[Narrator]

Silver.

[Lone Ranger]

Two hours later, a blanket clutched to his shoulders, Neil Butler stared glumly into the campfire the masked man had built. Neil. Neil.

[Neil Butler]

Huh? Oh, sorry, Second, I didn't hear you at first.

[Lone Ranger]

I think you'd better tell us your story.

[Neil Butler]

Story?

[Lone Ranger]

You did quite a bit of talking before you came to. Too much for you to deny that. There's something on your mind. Better tell it. Sometimes speaking helps.

[Neil Butler]

Talking ain't gonna help me.

[Lone Ranger]

It won't harm you unless you have something to hide.

[Neil Butler]

Hide? What'd be the use? The stories all over.

[Lone Ranger]

All the less reason then for not telling us. You were saying something about a stage? A bad trail. Rain.

[Neil Butler]

I was a stage driver. Yes, well, it won't hurt, I reckon. Maybe so. It'll even help, like you said. You see, stranger, it was like this. I drove the stage on the Mountain division. Rowed for more than five years.

[Lone Ranger]

I see.

[Neil Butler]

Up till a month ago. That was when I made my last trip.

[Lone Ranger]

What happened then?

[Neil Butler]

Well, I had three passengers that day and plenty of express part of it. 15,000 in folding money for San Francisco in payment for shoup a shipment of gold east. On account of all that cash, there was two shotgun messengers riding along instead of one as usual, it was raining, fit to be tied. I was having my hands full snaking them horses over the mouth of.

[Narrator]

Get up there, Dusty. Get on, Blackie. Get up. Get up.

[Neil Butler]

Blasted rain. Can't hardly see the trail.

[Narrator]

I don't like it.

[Neil Butler]

Scared?

[Narrator]

Well, there's nothing to laugh about. Take a look at that drop. What would happen to us if we went over? This storm's turning the trail into gumbo. We could slip over off the edge just as easy as nothing.

[Neil Butler]

We'll make it.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Come on, get up. How about when we get to that twist in the trail? It's before we top the divide.

[Neil Butler]

Well, what about it?

[Narrator]

Trail's mighty narrow there.

[Neil Butler]

And I've been handling stages on this division long enough to know what I can do and what I can't.

[Narrator]

Yeah, but how many times have you drove in weather like this? There. Listen to that. You said the rain had let up. When? It's getting worse. Come on, Blackie.

[Neil Butler]

Quit soldiering.

[Narrator]

Lay into it.

[Neil Butler]

Maybe I don't take the stage on weather like this as a rule, but them passengers inside was dead set on getting through. You savvy as much as me. The superintendent didn't want any delay with the cash we're carrying. The more delay, the more likely road agents to get wind of it.

[Narrator]

Owen said you had to take the stage out, though. They asked you if you figured you could make it. You said no. You could have waited till tomorrow. And we both asked you to wait.

[Neil Butler]

And I wouldn't. Cause I savvy my job. And if you don't like it, climb down and walk.

[Narrator]

Get up. Get along there. Get up. Get up there.

[Lone Ranger]

You had confidence in your own judgment.

[Neil Butler]

Yeah. Like a fool. Well, that's the way it went. The rain pounding us, the horses slipping and sliding in the mud, the passengers huddled inside the coach. And doggone sorry they come, both the messengers hollering away at me to turn back. Then we come to within sight of the meanest twist and curve along the whole sail.

[Narrator]

Get up there. Come on there. What's the matter? You look ahead. Look at that curve. Dog on. If I ain't got a notion of war fiber, you loco nothing. Figure you can make that curve.

[Neil Butler]

I ain't loco, but I sure figured to do it.

[Narrator]

You can. But it's nothing but mud and the tail slacks toward the drum if we start slipping. Oh, God.

[Neil Butler]

Shut up and leave me handle this.

[Narrator]

We got the turn back and here we go. Here's the place to do it. We got room here. Rein in them horses. We'll turn up there.

[Neil Butler]

Get off.

[Narrator]

Pull up, Plastic. We'll all get killed. Get up. Come on there, you coyotes. Stop them. Give me them ravens. They go.

[Advertiser]

They go.

[Neil Butler]

Don't let your bo. We'll have an accident.

[Narrator]

Blast you.

[Neil Butler]

Too late to turn back anyhow. We're into the curve. Hang on tight and don't butt in.

[Narrator]

We'll never make it. Stop. Stop. Easy there, Dusty. Come on, blackhead. You there. Like to dig in? Get up. This young head. Get up. We're slipping. We're slipping on already. We're going to turn over. Come on there. You got to make it let into it. Come on, Blacky. Come on.

[Lone Ranger]

Really slipped off the trail. You went over the drop.

[Neil Butler]

We did. All I can recollect is the horses screaming and trying to hold their footing. Them messengers yelling like they'd gone loco. Everything beginning to turn upside down. Like the whole world was being tipped on end. And then me coming to again in a bed. And fellas standing around looking at me like they were sorry I wasn't done for.

[Lone Ranger]

The others, the passengers, the two guards.

[Neil Butler]

The passengers was killed. All of them. One of the guards, Barton, he was the only ones to pull through. Bart had broke a leg. Me, I wasn't hardly scratched me. The fault of the whole thing. Not hurt at all. I wish I had been. I wish they had done for me. All I can do is see them that was killed. Accusing me day and night. It don't make no difference. They're staring at me, pointing at me. Saying things.

[Lone Ranger]

Saying things all the time. Easy. This is doing you no good.

[Neil Butler]

Tonight. Tonight I dreamed of him again. That's why you found me the way you did. I was trying to run away, but I can't. I can't.

[Lone Ranger]

What happened to the carrying? Was it found?

[Neil Butler]

Accusing me, accusing me, accusing me.

[Lone Ranger]

Pull yourself together, fellow. I asked you about the money you carried. What happened to it?

[Neil Butler]

I don't know. It's lying somewhere in the mud.

[Lone Ranger]

I reckon they made a search for it.

[Neil Butler]

A search? Just about turned things upside down to find it. But how was it to find a small package like that when they couldn't even find half the stage was scattered over half a county.

[Lone Ranger]

Listen to me, Neil. You feel as though you were at fault.

[Neil Butler]

I was. Of course I was. But I'd been so sure I'd covered that trail so many times. The authorities, they heard Bart's story. How him and his part had tried to get me to turn back. I was fired from my job, of course. Wasn't nothing the law could hold me for just a mistake in judgment. But it was plain to be seen how folks felt. I knew they was talking behind my back. Whispering, calling me a murderer.

[Lone Ranger]

Will you show us the place where the stage left the trail?

[Neil Butler]

What fur?

[Lone Ranger]

I have an idea. Todd and I were riding for Alvarado. Following a lead I think is connected with your accident.

[Neil Butler]

Yeah, but what's that?

[Lone Ranger]

Answer my question. Can you show us the place or can't you? Well sure I can tell to bring the horses.

[Neil Butler]

It won't be easy to get to. Stranger. That trail ain't been used since most of give way with the stage.

[Lone Ranger]

Never mind that. The sun's coming up now. We'll be able to see at any rate.

[Neil Butler]

But I.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't argue. Help me smother this fire. Then you ride with me on Silver. The trail they were looking for was many miles from the place where they had made camp. It was past noon when the masked man gave the signal to halt.

[Neil Butler]

You'll have to watch your footing. It's right steep here.

[Lone Ranger]

Now watch out for loose stones and we'll be safe enough. This is the place.

[Neil Butler]

Look there again. That rock. That's one of the wheels. The first one to bust loose. Up above us there is the place we slid off. You can see how most of the trail was carried away.

[Lone Ranger]

That's where I want to look. I'll have to climb. It's too steep for the horses. Stay with them. Tutor. Come on.

[Neil Butler]

I wish you'd tell me what this is all about.

[Lone Ranger]

Careful Here. That's better. This way. Now I'll tell you what I'm after. When and if I find it. Tell you one thing now however.

[Neil Butler]

Yeah?

[Lone Ranger]

You may not be as guilty of those deaths as you think yourself. I find what I'm looking for, I'll show you proof of it. Huh?

[Neil Butler]

You mean here we are?

[Lone Ranger]

This must have been the place.

[Neil Butler]

What place?

[Lone Ranger]

What's left of the trail is just over our heads Here.

[Neil Butler]

Uh huh.

[Lone Ranger]

But then trail curves. The most dangerous spot along its whole length.

[Neil Butler]

I still don't savvy. You see something?

[Lone Ranger]

Stay there.

[Neil Butler]

What is it?

[Lone Ranger]

Exactly what I expected.

[Neil Butler]

What's that you picked up?

[Lone Ranger]

Take a look.

[Neil Butler]

A cap and part of a fuse.

[Lone Ranger]

You understand.

[Neil Butler]

Now blamed if I do. I don't see what you don't.

[Lone Ranger]

You understand that this goes to prove the trail had been deliberately weakened before you came over it with a stage. I wondered why a driver with your experience would take a chance with the odds against him. Your judgment wasn't at fault. What you didn't know couldn't know that someone had been here ahead of you. Someone who had blasted out the rock here where it supported the trail. All that was needed was the weight of the coach to make the trail cave in.

[Neil Butler]

Well, I'll be. Hey.

[Narrator]

What?

[Lone Ranger]

Look above.

[Narrator]

A landslide started a purpose. Dano. Get out below with the horses. Get going before you. We'll be killed. Hurry.

[Lone Ranger]

Behind that ledge there. It's our only chance.

[Narrator]

Hurry.

[Lone Ranger]

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.

[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 posts 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@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you.

[Lone Ranger]

Now to continue our story. And a few minor bruises made by flying stones. But when Neil, outstretched upon the ground began to stir. No move.

[Neil Butler]

But I.

[Lone Ranger]

You hear me?

[Neil Butler]

Don't move.

[Lone Ranger]

Stay just as you are. And whoever set off that blast.

[Neil Butler]

Think he got us. You mean he might try again? What's to stop him? We can't down here.

[Lone Ranger]

He shouldn't be able to see us. But if he does. Make it look as though we're done for.

[Neil Butler]

Tato and the horses.

[Lone Ranger]

Tanto saw what was coming. Don't worry about them. They won't be seen. The overhang of the cliff gives them cover.

[Neil Butler]

Yeah. Careful.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't even turn your head.

[Neil Butler]

Doggone uncomfortable here.

[Lone Ranger]

But better than being killed. Wait.

[Neil Butler]

Try to keep silent. You're the boss. Can't I even. What was that?

[Lone Ranger]

The man who tried to kill us.

[Neil Butler]

Huh?

[Lone Ranger]

Just a moment more. A little too soon and spoil it now.

[Neil Butler]

Stranger. Look here.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes?

[Neil Butler]

You're way ahead of me. How'd you figure all this? What brought you into this part of the country? Yeah. And who's that? Just rode off. Do you know?

[Lone Ranger]

I believe I do.

[Neil Butler]

Then why don't you?

[Lone Ranger]

I won't mention names until I can prove he's the man behind the wreck of the stage you drove the fellow I'm thinking of, however, recently bought a large ranch in a county quite a distance from here. Tyler recognized him. He was from Alvarado. And the job he'd held would never allowed him to save money enough to buy even a small outfit. Yeah, I wanted to find out just where he got his money. We were heading for Alvarado to investigate, but before we left, we asked questions about the fellow. I've got an idea he learned we'd been interested in him, followed us to find out why, and this is the result.

[Neil Butler]

So that's what brought you.

[Lone Ranger]

Right.

[Neil Butler]

And? And it wasn't my fault them folks were killed.

[Lone Ranger]

Right again, stranger.

[Neil Butler]

Just with that alone. You've done more for me already that I can ever replace.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on. Must be out of sight by now. Back to the horses.

[Neil Butler]

And then what?

[Lone Ranger]

And then we pick up that fellow's trail. Hurry. Three hours later, Neil Butler's wife heard the clattering of hoofs outside their home and paused in her work to look through the window. What she saw sent her flying to the door.

[Narrator]

Neil.

[Neil Butler]

Oh, Neil, I've been worrying so. No need to worry for me, honey. But where have you been? What have you been? Nora? I've been so many places and done so many things since last night. It'd take me an hour to tell you, and I ain't got the time. Where's my gun? Did you see him? You left them on the table. Oh, sure, I see him. You're going to wear them? Uh huh.

[Lone Ranger]

Neil.

[Neil Butler]

Huh? What do you want with those guns? What are you planning to do with them? Oh, nothing much. They're going to be more for show than use, I reckon. Look at me, Neil. I want the truth. Are you going hunting for trouble? Why, shucks, no. What would I do that for? And why do you want to be armed? I just said they was more for show. Those men outside, who are they? Friends of mine. That's no answer. One of those men is masked. The other's redskin. Since when have you made friends with outlaws? Outlaws? That's a good one. Well, goodbye, honey. Wait. Well, where are you going? Why, just Alvarado. You. You haven't gone there since. Since accident? That's right. I ain't. I guess, with changed. Changed? Last night you were worried bitter. I was afraid of what you might do. That was last night. Now you're disinterested. Oh, Neil, I'm still worried. Please don't. I'm sorry. I've got to be on my way. No, wait, Nora. You asked me a Couple of questions. You asked me who the mask fellow was and what I aim to do. I'm gonna do something honey, I never figured to do again. I'm gonna drive a stage. No. And that mask fella. Well, if it leaves your mind any to know it, that there's the Lone Ranger. And now I can't stay any longer. Bye. The Lone Ranger.

[Lone Ranger]

Although Alvarado was a little more than an hour's ride from Neil's home, the masked man chose to arrive there after dark. And so several more hours had passed when Neil alone entered the local office of the stage line. Three men were seated inside.

[Neil Butler]

Evening, Neil. Neil Butler. No call to be so surprised to see me as a Jensen. Thought you'd left these parts for good when you quit your station agent job. Here. I brought you back.

[Narrator]

Why, I come back to say howdy to his friends.

[Neil Butler]

What's it to you? Oh, nothing, Sheriff.

[Narrator]

And Neil, let me tell you something. If you're still holding it again, Jensen for firing you from your job, forget it. I won't stand for no trouble from you.

[Neil Butler]

Yeah, so? Howdy, Bart. Ain't heard nothing from you yet. I'm kind of choosy who I pass the time of day with.

[Narrator]

Meaning meanin that calls the law weren't.

[Neil Butler]

Ever able to act again. You. It don't signify you ain't just as much a killer as if you'd shot them folks down with a gun. So if you think I don't take that kind of talk, Bart, no.

[Narrator]

Well, by thunder, in my book, you're.

[Neil Butler]

As low as they come.

[Narrator]

That plain enough? I would blast you, Bart. That's enough from both of you. Bart, don't go to starting nothing. You, Neil, you ain't so popular in town no more. Bart only said aloud what everybody else is thinking. Folks died cause you had to show what great shakes of a driver you thought you was. Take my advice. Stay out of Alvarado. I can't always be on hand to check rain. Folks keep out of sight and there'll be no cause for a ruckus to start. Now, you got business here?

[Neil Butler]

Sure. Think I stopped in cause I liked your company. There's an Injun outside, wants to speak to you. I said I'd tell you.

[Narrator]

What's he want?

[Neil Butler]

Suppose you find out for yourself. Oh, you're one of two, Bart. He. Hank could see both of you.

[Narrator]

Why me?

[Neil Butler]

You heard what I told the sheriff. You aimed to see what he wants. He's waiting there.

[Narrator]

Well, come on, Bart. Maybe we don't want you.

[Neil Butler]

Jensen you stay here.

[Narrator]

But I wait for this Jensen. We'll be right back in.

[Neil Butler]

Anyway, I'd sort of like to talk with you. I don't see no redskin, Sheriff.

[Narrator]

Maybe. Oh, there you are. All right, what's on your mind?

[Lone Ranger]

Reach.

[Neil Butler]

What?

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Lone Ranger]

Keep your hands from your guns, both of you.

[Narrator]

A mask man.

[Lone Ranger]

That was just a decoy, Sheriff. I thought you'd be too busy watching him to see me.

[Narrator]

What do you want? Did Neil send us outside knowing you was here?

[Lone Ranger]

If he did, he'll do nothing about it. Tada. Get the horses hitched to the stage. Hurry.

[Neil Butler]

Hunter.

[Narrator]

Do it. Horses.

[Lone Ranger]

The stage. Walk ahead of me toward the stables.

[Narrator]

Now look here, Mr. Sheriff.

[Lone Ranger]

I won't argue, Sheriff. Yet. Moving or take the consequences.

[Neil Butler]

We ain't got much choice, Sheriff. Let's go.

[Narrator]

They'll pay for this.

[Lone Ranger]

Someone will pay, Sheriff, but it won't be us 20 minutes later.

[Neil Butler]

Why ain't the sheriff and bar come back? What are you sitting there just grinning at me for? This don't look right to me if you're up to something. But same I'll use if I have to. Now just keep patient. Sure, I'm up to something. And it won't be long till you find out what. As a matter of fact, we'll just get started right now. Everything seems to be set. Come on.

[Narrator]

March that stage.

[Neil Butler]

There ain't supposed to be no stage this time of day. What are you. We're taking a ride, Jensen. All right. 1. I've been owing you for a long, long time. But I never found out till the day it was you I owed it to.

[Lone Ranger]

Here, here. Stay.

[Neil Butler]

Thanks, Tonto. Climb up, Jensen. Where are we going? You ain't local, are you?

[Lone Ranger]

Stealing a coach like this?

[Neil Butler]

I said climb aboard. Now hand me them reins. You said you'd like to know where we're going, Jensen. Uh huh. You recollect the mountain trail. You recollect where the stage I was driving chipped over? I'll recollect. Well, that's just where we're headed for.

[Narrator]

Get up. Get along there. Wake up. Get up. Come on now. Get up. Get up there. Come on.

[Lone Ranger]

Hello, Ring, Silver and Scout. We're riding ahead of them with Neil cracking his whip and shouting to the.

[Narrator]

Horses he had driven so many times before.

[Lone Ranger]

The huge stage went lumbering out of town and through the night over the.

[Narrator]

Trail that led to the dangerous mountain country.

[Lone Ranger]

Urged on by the driver, the straining.

[Narrator]

Horses thundered up the trail at their utmost speed.

[Lone Ranger]

The trail met and followed a canyon that became Deeper the trail climbed higher. The floor of the canyon was concealed in shadows.

[Narrator]

And as the stage careened over the trail.

[Lone Ranger]

Jensen. Panic steadily mounted.

[Narrator]

There's Needle Rock. Right. Get up. Get along there. But the curve, the place where the trails broke through and it fell thousand yards beyond. Sure. Keep moving. Blackie, if you don't stop, we'll be killed.

[Neil Butler]

Let's get.

[Narrator]

Fine. You are local.

[Neil Butler]

But I'm keeping my promise.

[Narrator]

Jensen, we're going out together.

[Neil Butler]

Them reigns be. Or next time I'll knock you right off the stage.

[Narrator]

I did it. I'll admit it. I blasted out that trail. So you turn over when you went through the night. Oh, you waited for the stage to go off the trail.

[Neil Butler]

Then you stole the cash, didn't you?

[Narrator]

You. Yes. Yes, I did.

[Neil Butler]

After you got the cash, you quit your job.

[Narrator]

You cleared out and bought your seller rent. I did it. I admit it. But I don't want to die. Please. Please. I don't want to die. Neither did that motherf. Get along. Get along. Now. You got to listen. Neil. Neil. I'll divide up with you. I'll give you half of all I got. There was 15,000. That'll mean over 7,000 just for you. 7,000. Stop. Don't mean that. I do. I give you my word. Just don't kill me. No. Just ahead. The trail's on. We're gonna go through. Promise that again. I'll give it all to you. I'll give you anything. That's just what I wanted to hear. There.

[Neil Butler]

Steady there. Steady. Another five yards and we'd sure have gone over. Better get down. It'll do you good to stretch your legs. You don't look to me like you feel so good. Are you gonna get turned around? I can make it when the time comes. So you'll pay half what you stole, huh? I'll pay.

[Lone Ranger]

We thought you'd break Jensen come ask me right sallow and tie the sheriff and Bart until doing.

[Neil Butler]

The sheriff was riding right along with us inside the stage the whole way. Him and Bart both. I said this'd be your finish, Jensen. But it weren't in the way you figured I meant.

[Lone Ranger]

Santo and I tied and gagged them and put them inside where they couldn't be seen. But where they could hear everything that was said.

[Narrator]

What shame we did. And stranger, I'm apologizing for all the things I was thinking about you when you gagged us. You figured out a way to make.

[Neil Butler]

This skunk talk in front of witnesses. And you can believe me, he's gonna.

[Narrator]

Get everything he's got coming with full measure. Dwayne, I never confessed to nothing I didn't. You can save your breath. We heard a plenty Jensen, you'll hang.

[Lone Ranger]

And Neil is cleared.

[Neil Butler]

Neil, you got my word. Everybody's gonna hear the truth about this. And your old job's waiting for you thanks to the Lone Ranger. What?

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger. Chumpin G Horsifact Hi stranger. I've been wanting to meet up with you for a long time. Wait.

[Neil Butler]

Sheriff, you ain't through. Wait till Yep.

[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.comarts just go to indeed.comarts 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.

[Lone Ranger]

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 the following ranch hand, 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 copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[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 posts 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@ Indeed.com Arts, just go to Indeed.com Arts 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.