Night Fire | The Lone Ranger (05-19-52)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Night Fire" | The Lone Ranger (05-19-52)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Air Date: October 28, 2025
Featured Episode: Digitally restored broadcast of The Lone Ranger radio drama, originally aired May 19, 1952

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Episode Overview

This episode transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with a classic Western drama featuring the iconic Lone Ranger and his companion Tonto. The plot centers around Tom Allen, an aging and respected rancher preparing to leave his land and return east, but his decision on what to do with his valuable ranch triggers greed and desperation among his neighbors. Through restored, vivid audio, listeners are immersed in a suspenseful tale of betrayal, attempted murder, and the ultimate triumph of justice led by the Lone Ranger.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

Introduction of Central Conflict ([04:46]–[06:21])

• Farewell Celebration: Tom Allen, after a long and successful tenure as a rancher, announces his intent to leave the West and return to his daughter's home in the East.
• Mysterious Plans: Neighbors, especially Clyde Burton, are curious (and scheming) about Allen's plans for the ranch, but Tom keeps his intentions secret, hinting at a “surprise” to be revealed at the station the next day.

Notable Quote

“If you want to know what I’m going to do, come down to the station before I leave tomorrow afternoon. You too, Clyde. It’s going to be a surprise.”
— Tom Allen ([05:57])

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The Plot to Steal the Ranch ([06:43]–[08:26])

• Conspiracy Formed: Clyde Burton conspires with his henchmen, Joe Leonard and Gink Fannin, to obtain Tom Allen's legal papers, which detail the intended transfer of his ranch.
• Murderous Intent: Burton plans to kill Allen before his legal papers can be made official and forge documents granting himself the right to buy the ranch at a bargain.

Notable Quote

“If Allen dies before the papers are made legal and before anyone knows what’s in them... I'll forge new ones that say I have the privilege to buy the ranch for a few thousand dollars.”
— Clyde Burton ([07:32])

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Late-Night Attack and Arson ([08:26]–[09:59])

• Breaking In: Joe and Gink break into Allen’s home, posing as robbers, demanding money and the all-important legal papers.
• Violent Struggle: Allen refuses to cooperate, and a physical fight breaks out, resulting in the lamp being knocked over and the house catching fire.
• Allen Is Taken: As the house burns, Allen is kidnapped by his would-be murderers, who plan to force the secret of the documents from him.

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The Lone Ranger and Tonto’s Investigation ([12:50]–[15:15])

• Arrival at the Scene: Lone Ranger and Tonto, traveling on a secret mission, spot the fire and ride down.
• Evidence Found: They deduce from blood and footprints that someone escaped the burning house, likely wounded and assisted by others.

Notable Quote

“Those flames light up the area so completely you can make out the prints clearly. There seem to be two sets.”
— The Lone Ranger ([14:26])

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Framing Tonto & Tense Standoff ([18:14]–[21:12])

• Framing Attempt: Burton and Joe attempt to pin the fire and Allen’s supposed murder on Tonto, confronting him at gunpoint near the ruins.
• Lone Ranger Intervenes: The masked man ambushes the would-be lynchers, disarms them, and asserts Tonto’s innocence.

Notable Exchange

Burton: “You’re the one who shot Tom Allen and you’re going to pay for it.” ([18:51])
The Lone Ranger: “Tonto is no murderer. And he didn’t set fire to this house.” ([19:15])

• Skepticism Remains: The Lone Ranger senses the neighbors’ suspicious behavior and hatches a plan to double back and surveil them, suspecting their guilt.

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Unmasking the Villain ([22:42]–[27:00])

• In the Cave: Tom Allen, beaten but unbowed, is interrogated in a remote cave. He deduces the identities of his captors—Joe Leonard, Gink Fannin, and finally, Clyde Burton, whose voice he recognizes.
• Shocking Revelation: Allen reveals he had intended to give his ranch to Clyde Burton as a gift, not sell it at all—intensifying the irony of Burton’s treachery and planned murder.

Notable Quote

“I planned to give it to you at the depot when I left... There was no reason for what you did, Clyde. No reason for forgery or the murder you’re about to commit. Cause you’ll be forced to kill me now.”
— Tom Allen ([26:15])

• Lone Ranger’s Timely Rescue: The Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive, subdue the villains, and save Allen. The plot to frame Tonto is exposed.

Memorable Moment

“You’re not going to kill anyone.”
— The Lone Ranger ([26:52])

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Justice and Resolution ([27:45]–[29:28])

• Villains in Jail: The trio of crooks is marched to town and jailed by the sheriff, after Allen recovers the real documents from the cave.
• New Purpose for the Ranch: Allen tears up the contested deed and resolves to donate the land to the territory for a county court, church, and school:

“It’ll make a fine place for a county court and a church and a school. Oh, I sure am glad things happened the way they did.”
— Tom Allen ([28:47])

• Appreciation for the Lone Ranger:

“I only know what he did for me and what he’s done for other people all over the West. That’s enough to know. Because he’s the Lone Ranger.”
— Tom Allen ([29:28])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Tom Allen's sardonic wisdom in the face of betrayal (26:15–26:52)
• The iconic Lone Ranger justice—swift, clever intervention (24:44, 26:52, 27:00)
• The subtle audio storytelling—flames, hoofbeats, tense silences—heightening drama throughout

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Key Timestamps

• [04:46] – Tom Allen’s future plans and "the surprise"
• [07:32] – Burton’s conspiracy and plot details
• [09:59] – Kidnapping, arson aftermath
• [13:07] – Lone Ranger & Tonto investigate the fire
• [18:31] – Tonto framed, standoff with Burton and Joe
• [22:42] – Tom Allen confronted, villains unmasked in cave
• [26:15] – Allen reveals his true intentions for Burton
• [27:45] – Lone Ranger’s intervention and rescue
• [29:00] – Crooks jailed, Allen decides the ranch’s future

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Conclusion

This classic episode is a rich, suspenseful Western drama featuring all the hallmarks of The Lone Ranger: selflessness, swift justice, and the fight against greed. The digital restoration brings new life to its tension, humor, and emotional core, making both the story and the soundscape vivid for new audiences. The morals of loyalty, the pain of betrayal, and the power of redemption resonate, culminating in a satisfying ending—Tom Allen finds a higher purpose for his land, and the Lone Ranger silently rides off to his next adventure.

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For fans of classic Westerns and radio drama, “Night Fire” is an outstanding showcase of both the genre’s timeless appeal and the meticulous digital restoration work that Old Time Radio Westerns offers.

Transcript

[Tonto]

What's that sound? That's the sound of Downy unstoppable scent.

[Narrator]

Beads going into your washing machine and giving your clothes freshness that lasts all day long. There it is again. It's like music to your ears. Or more like music to your nose. That freshness is irresistible. Let's get a Downy Unstoppables bottle shake. And now a sniff solo.

[Tom Allen]

Nice.

[Narrator]

With Downy Unstoppables, you just tossed wash wow. For all day freshness.

[Tom Allen]

You know that big bargain detergent jug is 80% water, right? It doesn't clean as well. 80% water?

[Narrator]

I thought I was getting a better.

[Tom Allen]

Deal because it's so big. If you want a better clean, Tide pods are only 12% water. The rest is pure, concentrated cleaning ingredients. Oh, let me make an announcement. Attention shoppers, if you want a real deal, try tide pods. Stop paying for watered down detergents. Pay for clean. If it's got to be clean, it's got to be tide pods. Water content based on the leading bargain liquid detergent.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the old time radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode at 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 high silver. The Lone Ranger Turn.

[Tom Allen]

Sam.

[Andrew Rines]

That's the sound of James adding long.

[Tonto]

Lasting gain scent boosters to his laundry this morning.

[Andrew Rines]

Several hours later, James sniffs the irresistible.

[Tonto]

Scent of gain on his shirt.

[Tom Allen]

Gain.

[Andrew Rines]

Several hours later, James has even caught.

[Tom Allen]

The attention of his mother in law.

[Tonto]

And she never gives him attention.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ooh, you smell amazing, James.

[Tom Allen]

Oh, thanks, mom. I love you too.

[Tonto]

I never said that. Add gain scent boosters to your laundry. Add joy to your day.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion Toto, 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 hoof beats of the great horse Silver.

[Tom Allen]

The Lone Ranger rides again. Come on, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Let's go. Big fellow.

[Tom Allen]

Are you Silver? Away.

[Narrator]

Tom Allen, a pioneer in the west, had planned to return to the eastern home of his daughter after 30 years of great success as a rancher. At the farewell party given in his honor, he made a speech in which he explained his plans for the future.

[Tom Allen]

And because my daughter Ellie's Husband refuses to give up his business to come out here. And I'm going to give in and go back there. I aim to see my daughter and grandchildren before I die.

[Tonto]

What are you going to do with your ranch, Tom?

[Tom Allen]

You might know that Clyde Burton had asked that question. That neighbor of mine's been pestering me to sell my ranch to him ever since he came here five years ago. Well, I'm not gonna do it.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's telling you, Clyde. You gonna let somebody run the ranch for you, Tom?

[Tom Allen]

No. I sold my cattle, got rid of my hands. I'm gonna get rid of the land, too. All 15 square miles of it? Yep. But I'm not gonna sell it to you, Clyde.

[Tonto]

Well, you don't have to rub it in.

[Tom Allen]

You want to know what I'm going to do with that ranch of mine?

[Narrator]

What are you going to do, Tom? Going to sell it to the Apaches.

[The Lone Ranger]

You going to come back to it with a wife?

[Tom Allen]

Oh, no.

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Tom Allen]

Mary's the only wife I ever had or ever wanted. No one can take her place. If you want to know what I'm going to do, come down to the station before I leave tomorrow afternoon. You too, Clyde. It's going to be a surprise. It is, too. You'll all see. But as I was saying before, I hate to leave you people here.

[Narrator]

After the party, Tom Allen rode as far as Clyde Burton's ranch house, then continued on to his own house five miles farther out along the trail. Shortly after midnight, two men, Joe Leonard and Gink Fannin, rode up to Clyde Burton's ranch house and dismounted.

[Tom Allen]

Oh, boy.

[Gink Fannin]

Steady Run.

[Narrator]

Burton greeted them and answered their unasked questions.

[Tonto]

Boys, things didn't turn out too well tonight. Old man Allen refused to sell me his ranch. I tried to talk to him before the party and he wouldn't even listen to me.

[Gink Fannin]

You didn't figure on that, did you?

[Tonto]

No. I thought with his going away, he'd let it go for a song. Then at the party tonight, he told everyone he's. Well, I don't know what he has in mind, but whatever it is, I aim to see that he doesn't do it.

[Gink Fannin]

How can you stop him?

[Tonto]

Kill him? Yeah.

[Tom Allen]

What good will killing him do?

[Tonto]

On his way from the party tonight, he rode this far with me. I pumped him and learned. Not even his lawyer has been told how Alan intends to dispose of the ranch. Allen hopes to surprise him, too when he brings the papers to town in the morning to have them put in legal form.

[Gink Fannin]

Yeah, I get it. If Alan dies before the Papers are made legal and before anyone knows what's in them.

[Tonto]

Right. I'll forge new ones that say I have the privilege to buy the ranch for a few thousand dollars. Alan's the kind who'd do a thing like that. And people will think it's the surprise he mentioned in his speech tonight.

[Gink Fannin]

What do you want us to do, boss?

[Tonto]

Go to his ranch tonight, get that paper that tells how he's going to transfer the ranch. That's the one I want destroyed so no one will find it later and perhaps figure things out.

[Gink Fannin]

How much time do we have to do this, boss?

[Tonto]

No more than five or six hours. Alan told me he had to bring his papers to Jed Williams law office in the morning to have them put into legal form. We want things in order by then before they start to look for him. So get going now.

[Narrator]

Joe Leonard and Gink Plannin reached Tom Allen's ranch house about an hour later. They made their way to the front door, which was unlocked, and entered stealthily. They wore bandanas across their faces.

[Gink Fannin]

Quiet now. I think I hear him in the next room. Yeah, he's there all right.

[Tom Allen]

Who is it? Who's out there?

[Tonto]

Joe, there's a light showing under the door of his room.

[Gink Fannin]

It's a lamp, that's all.

[Tom Allen]

A quiet. He's coming. Who's out here anyway? I heard the horses and I know.

[Gink Fannin]

Oh, surprise. Huh? You don't want us to use these guns. Do as I say.

[Tom Allen]

What is this, a little joke?

[Gink Fannin]

No, it's not a joke. Put that lamp over there on the table.

[Tom Allen]

Do what he says.

[The Lone Ranger]

Move.

[Tonto]

Put it on the table.

[Tom Allen]

Well, if that's what you want. There. Oh, that darn curtain. It's fixed. Well, now, why are you two fellas wearing bandanas and waving those guns like that?

[Gink Fannin]

Where's your money, Tom?

[Tom Allen]

You know my name, don't you? This is a little joke you're playing, isn't it?

[Tonto]

I'll show you if it's a joke or not.

[Tom Allen]

Hey, you almost nipped my ear. I made it close to prove we weren't fooling. Next time, maybe.

[Tonto]

I'll hit you if you don't get.

[Gink Fannin]

Let me handle this, Tom. We know you have a lot of money around here and some papers, too. We want them. Where are they?

[Tom Allen]

I'm not gonna tell you.

[Gink Fannin]

I said, where are the papers?

[Tom Allen]

You're not scaring me with your guns and your tough acting. I haven't any money in this house, and I don't know what papers you're talking about.

[Tonto]

Oh, you don't huh?

[Tom Allen]

Maybe this will help you remember.

[Tonto]

What papers?

[Tom Allen]

My arm. You'll break it, you yeller coyote. If you put aside that gun, old as I am, I'll make mincemeat out of you.

[Gink Fannin]

Put on your fist and stand right here. We haven't any time to waste. Now tell us, where's your money? And where are those papers you're supposed to take down at Jed Williams place?

[Tom Allen]

Oh, you two know everything, don't you? Well, if those are the papers you want, I can't figure why you want them. But they're not in this house, I'll tell you that. I got em hid.

[Gink Fannin]

Where?

[Tom Allen]

I'm not telling you now or any other time. So what are you gonna do?

[Gink Fannin]

You'll see. Look after this old goat while I take a look through the place.

[Tonto]

Right.

[Gink Fannin]

And keep your hands off of them. Just cover them till I search the bedroom. This isn't gonna take long.

[Tom Allen]

Your pal said it wouldn't take long. He's been in there 20 minutes ripping up the floor and everything else. He still didn't find anything and he's not gonna shut up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hey, Enter.

[Tom Allen]

Didn't you find that stuff yet?

[Gink Fannin]

No. Bring that old boat in here.

[Tonto]

All right, all right. You come on inside.

[Tom Allen]

I'll come inside. All right.

[Tonto]

Hey, what the hell?

[Tom Allen]

Hey, give me that gun. Didn't expect this, did you? Oh, you. You old rattlesnake. Hey, Joe, what's going on?

[Gink Fannin]

Hey, let go of him.

[Tom Allen]

No. Yeller coyote's gonna hold. Watch out for that lamp.

[Gink Fannin]

Watch out.

[Tom Allen]

He's choking me. Get him off. Let go of his throat. Now I see his face. I know you, Joe. Your name's G. That's enough. Oh. Oh.

[Gink Fannin]

Had to knock him out. Hey, Gink, look. Fire. The place is on fire.

[Tom Allen]

Get out of the way. Let me shoot that old snake.

[Gink Fannin]

Stop, you fool. The place is on fire. You knocked over the lamp, Gank. Look at those flames.

[Tom Allen]

Yeah.

[Tonto]

Hey, I didn't know. We gotta get out of here now.

[Tom Allen]

Wait.

[Gink Fannin]

Grab Alan, get him outside.

[Tonto]

Let him stay here and burn.

[Tom Allen]

I should have shot. Come back here.

[Gink Fannin]

Gotta get this hombre out of here and keep him alive till we find out where he hid this stuff. Help me carry him to the horses.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Gink Fannin]

Hey, here we are. Here, help me get this fella across in front of your cell.

[Tonto]

There you are.

[Tom Allen]

He's up there. Yeah, there's blood all over.

[Tonto]

Now what do we do?

[Gink Fannin]

Take Alan up to the cave, start making him talk. When he comes to, make him tell.

[Tonto]

Where the papers are hidden. You mean the cave Back in the hills?

[Tom Allen]

Yeah, I mean that one.

[Gink Fannin]

What other cave is it? I get riding up there quick. I'll ride to the boss's place and find out what he thinks we ought to do. Then I'll ride to the cave.

[Tonto]

All right. I'll be waiting.

[Tom Allen]

Easy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steady.

[Tom Allen]

Lightning.

[Tonto]

Come on. Get him.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto were riding through the hills heading southward on a secret mission. They were making their journey at night because of the secrecy involved. As they rode around a turn in the road into the open, they stopped as their eyes beheld flames in the distance below.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's a house on fire down there.

[Tonto]

Ah, whole house burned.

[The Lone Ranger]

There seems to be no one near the place.

[Tonto]

Maybe somebody inside.

[The Lone Ranger]

I was thinking the same thing.

[Tonto]

We ride down see Kimasabe.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I'm anxious to complete this mission. We're on in the shortest possible time. But we can't go on till we learn what's happening down at that fire.

[Tom Allen]

Monsoon very much come.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tonto rode down the long snake like trail that finally led to the ranch of Tom Allen. The building was entirely in flames as they dismounted and left their horses in a grove of trees nearby.

[The Lone Ranger]

The distance to this place was greater than it seemed from up there in the hills.

[Tonto]

Ah, it may be our to ride.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here if there was anyone inside the house. We're too late to help them now.

[Tonto]

Fire stuff had to die out. House fall down soon?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, it's completely gutted. I can't distinguish anything within the flames. Can you make out anything?

[Tonto]

No. Let's wait a while to see. Maybe Kimasabi.

[The Lone Ranger]

What is it, Tano? What's on the ground there?

[Tonto]

Look. Blood. Much blood and ground.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, and it's fresh. It leads from the house. So someone must have escaped.

[Tonto]

Look close at grass. Footprints and grass.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I see them. Those flames light up the area so completely you can make out the prints clearly. There seem to be two sets.

[Tonto]

Them lead over this way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Blood stains are thick right here in this spot. They're hoof prints too.

[Tonto]

Ah, two horses.

[The Lone Ranger]

The prints go out toward the road. The answer would seem to be that one person was wounded and was assisted to his horse by another.

[Tonto]

Right to Dr. Mebby.

[The Lone Ranger]

I imagine that's it.

[Tonto]

Huno, listen me here. Kimasabi horses come this way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hondo, I think I better get back into the shadows. Whoever's coming might get a wrong impression if they see a mask man at the scene of a burning house.

[Tonto]

Me go with you.

[The Lone Ranger]

No, stay here. Find out who owns this house if you can. I'll hide Back here among these three.

[Narrator]

Meantime, Gink Fannon had taken the unconscious form of Tom Allen to a cave the at in the nearby hills. And Joe Leonard had ridden back to Clyde Burton's ranch house. The crooked Burton, when he heard Joe's story, was furious, but he immediately saddled his horse, and together the two men were now approaching the site of the fire.

[Tonto]

Ho, ho, ho.

[Tom Allen]

Hold it, Joe. Hold it. Ho, ho, ho.

[Gink Fannin]

Here. What is it? What's the matter?

[Tonto]

Look away from the house, out near the road. Someone's there. See?

[Gink Fannin]

Well, yeah. Hey, boss, it's an engine.

[Tonto]

Sure enough, it is. Well, that's good.

[Gink Fannin]

Good?

[Tonto]

Why? Because I thought it might be someone from town. Someone I knew.

[Gink Fannin]

Don't you think we ought to go right onto the cave, see what Ginks found out from the old man?

[Tonto]

No, Joe, I just had a brilliant idea.

[Tom Allen]

Huh?

[Gink Fannin]

What is it?

[Tonto]

That Indian sees us. He's looking in this direction. Yeah. We'll make Alan tell us what we want to know, Joe. I'll make sure of that. But if he has to die, well, when they find his body, there'll be no mystery about the identity of his killer.

[Tom Allen]

Huh?

[Tonto]

The Indian. We'll fix it so people will think the Indian set fire to the house and killed Tom Allen.

[Tom Allen]

Hey, yeah, but how?

[Tonto]

I'll attend to that part. That's right up to where he is and let me handle the situation. Then you take your cues from me. Come on, get him, get him, get him.

[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.

[Tom Allen]

Every now and then, I rinse it out, and I need to rinse tonight. And I needed more. My kid went through that. And the smell never leaves. I don't know what to do. I'm always in the dark. The sweat and dead shark smells like a dark. I'm Downy rinsing tonight.

[Narrator]

Downy rinse fights stubborn odors in just one wash.

[Tom Allen]

When impossible odors get stuck in. Rinse it out, Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. The flames that had consumed the Allen ranch house were dying, but their light still extended to the spot where Tonto stood. His eyes on the approaching horseman. The two men rode into the light and leaped from their horses. Clyde Burton had his gun ready and pointed it at Tonto menacingly.

[Tonto]

All right, Indian, get your hands up. We caught you dead to rights, huh? Me not do anything. I said get your hands up before I plug you.

[Gink Fannin]

I have him covered, too.

[Tonto]

Oh, you make mistake. Me do nothing. Me see fire. Yes, you saw the fire after you started it. You skulking redskin. You're the one who shot Tom Allen and you're going to pay for it.

[Gink Fannin]

Boss, you want me to shoot him now? Drop those guns.

[The Lone Ranger]

I will shoot no one.

[Tonto]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

You're covered. I'll shoot if you don't. Drop those guns, both of you.

[Tom Allen]

There.

[Tonto]

I dropped mine.

[The Lone Ranger]

You too.

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Gink Fannin]

All right.

[The Lone Ranger]

There. Pick them up, Toto. Who are you?

[Tonto]

Neighbors of Tom Allen's. I might ask, stranger, who you are. Judging by the mask you're wearing, you must be a partner of this murdering redskin.

[The Lone Ranger]

Todo is no murderer. And he didn't set fire to this house. As you said a minute ago. This mask I wear is worn for reasons that don't concern you.

[Gink Fannin]

Where'd you come from? What are you doing here?

[The Lone Ranger]

We were riding in the hills when we saw the flames. We came here to investigate.

[Tonto]

That's why we've come. My ranch is down the road, five miles from here. I was awake and saw the flames in the sky, so Joe and I rode here as soon as possible. Joe's my ranch boss.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see. I take it that Tom Allen owns this house at Burndown. But what's this about his being murdered?

[Tonto]

Nothing. Did I say that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, you said that. And you accused Tanu of doing it.

[Tonto]

I'm sorry. I just thought. Well, I saw the house the way it is and I figured. Well, I figured Tom Allen must have been inside when the fire started.

[Gink Fannin]

We thought he was burned to death. Isn't that it, boss?

[Tonto]

Yes, exactly, Ed. I thought he'd been burned and that the Indian. Well, did it Kimasabe him saved.

[The Lone Ranger]

Never mind Todoi. It was all a mistake, wasn't it, Mr. Burton?

[Tonto]

Clyde Burton? Yes, it was a mistake. I jumped at conclusions, that's all.

[Gink Fannin]

We came here just like you to see what happened.

[Tonto]

As soon as we look through the ruins after the flames subside, we'll get the sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why not do that now? We'll be glad to inform him and tell him to ride out here.

[Tonto]

Oh, you don't have to do that, stranger. Joe will ride into New Hope and notify the sheriff. The town's quite a distance away. Well, you'll be able to continue on your way now.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, we'll do that now that you get the sheriff out here. I don't know. We'll get our horses.

[Gink Fannin]

Hey, what about our guns? The engine hasn't.

[The Lone Ranger]

Talla will leave them out there on the road. After we've ridden away from this spot, you might recover then. Otherwise, you Might be inclined to use them against us.

[Tonto]

Oh, no, not at all. I told you that was a mistake.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mistakes do happen. I know. Nevertheless, that's what we'll do with your guns. Hello.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto walked to the spot where they had left their horses with their backs turned to the two men who waited near the road. Totto spoke low.

[Tonto]

Himasabi, why we go, him stay?

[The Lone Ranger]

I know what he said, Toto. He was positive when he said that you had shot Tom Allen. Then later he forgot about the shooting.

[Tom Allen]

Part as he told that other story.

[Tonto]

Me not like way them act.

[The Lone Ranger]

Nor do I. There's something furtive and suspicious about their.

[Tonto]

Actions and the way they talk them watch us. Need to get on horse scout.

[Gink Fannin]

Easy, fella.

[The Lone Ranger]

Notice where they're standing now. Right over the spot where the blood stains are heaviest.

[Gink Fannin]

Easy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Steady, big fellow.

[Tonto]

What we do now, King of Sally?

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll pretend to ride away from here. We'll circle back after we've gone about a quarter of a mile and ride a short distance up into the hills where we can watch this place without being seen. But we'd better go now. Monsoon.

[Narrator]

Clyde Burton and Joe Leonard watch the Lone Ranger and Tonto ride out of the circle of light cast by the dying flames.

[Gink Fannin]

They're gone, boss. They're riding away from town.

[Tonto]

What do you figure about them? As long as they're not going to notify the sheriff, I don't have to figure anything about them. Get our guns where they drop them on the road. I'll lead the horses out there and we'll ride at once to the cave.

[Narrator]

Tom Allen had been conscious for more than an hour, and during that time, Gink Fannon had used strenuous means to make the old man talk, but his efforts were in vain. Now, as footsteps were heard entering the cave, Allen was the first to see the two men who approached.

[Tom Allen]

Gink, here comes your partner with another one. The other one's got his face covered too.

[Gink Fannin]

Well, you been working on the old goat, huh? Did he talk?

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Gink Fannin]

Not yet.

[Tom Allen]

He's a tough old hombre. Don't say a word.

[Gink Fannin]

Well, maybe he will now with the three of us using persuasion, huh, boss?

[Tom Allen]

Your boss is afraid to talk. Why is that, boss? You afraid I might know your voice? Shut up. Why, Gink, you've been saying you wanted me to talk. You know, boss, I've been thinking a lot since these two come to my house, tried to rob me and burned the place down.

[Gink Fannin]

I said shut up. Ah, let him go on. The boss wants to hear this.

[Tom Allen]

How do you know the boss wants to hear me, Joe?

[Gink Fannin]

How did you know who I was, you fool?

[Tonto]

He tricked you into that.

[Tom Allen]

You are Joe Leonard, aren't you? Sure you are. You forget I know everybody in these parts. I recognized Gink when I pulled his mask off. Yeah, you let me finish. When I came to, I figured that Gink Fannin and Joe Leonard were always together around the cafes. And so, Well, I was right, wasn't I?

[Gink Fannin]

All the good it's gonna do you, boss. Let's kill him now.

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Tom Allen]

He's never gonna tell us where he hid the money or those papers. You want those papers? That's another thing. Gink knows all about them. At least he knows I'm supposed to take them to Jed Williams office at 8 o'. Clock. Did the boss tell you that, Gink? Did you, boss?

[Tonto]

You're afraid to talk, are you?

[Tom Allen]

Because you figure I'll recognize your voice. That's it, isn't it? Stop it.

[Tonto]

Stop asking those questions.

[Tom Allen]

Boss, I know that voice. I know who you are now. Oh, I can't believe it.

[Tonto]

What can't you believe?

[Tom Allen]

You're Clyde Burton, that's who you are. Sure you are. I know it now.

[Tonto]

All right. I'm Clyde Burton. There. I'll take off my bandana. Take yours off too, Joe.

[Gink Fannin]

All right.

[Tom Allen]

I should have figured that you were the only one who knew I was gonna go to see Jed Williams at 8:00'.

[Tonto]

Clock.

[Tom Allen]

I told you when we rode home together last night, I. I told you everything. But the most important part of all. He's laughing.

[Tonto]

He's crazy.

[Tom Allen]

Yes. Crazy to be fooled by Clyde Burton these past five years. But not as crazy as you, Clyde, for doing what you've done.

[Tonto]

What are you talking about? What important thing didn't you tell me? Why do you say I'm crazy?

[Tom Allen]

You've wanted my ranch a long time, Clyde.

[Tonto]

And I'm going to get it after we kill you. I've made up a will copying your handwriting. It says I'm to have the right to buy your ranch for $5 an acre.

[Tom Allen]

What good'll the will do ya, even if it's a good forgery?

[Tonto]

Because people will think it's the surprise you talk to about. All right, don't tell us where you hid the papers that made the transfer. If we can't find them, nobody else will find them either and you'll be dead.

[Tom Allen]

So the boss will get what he's after at $5 an acre, Clyde. That's why I'm laughing. The irony of all this you were. You were going to get the ranch for nothing.

[Tonto]

What did you say?

[Tom Allen]

That was my surprise. I was going to have Jed Williams make up a deed to my ranch in your name. I planned to give it to you at the depot when I left. Funny. Funny, isn't it? Have these men beat me. My head doesn't hurt as bad now as my heart does. You see, Clyde, I liked you as I'd like a son. Stop it.

[Tonto]

Don't say any more.

[Tom Allen]

I haven't long to live, so I'll say what I please. There was no reason for what you did, Clyde. No reason for forgery or the murder you're about to commit. Cause you'll be forced to kill me now.

[The Lone Ranger]

You know he's not going to kill anyone.

[Gink Fannin]

You are the masked man. Don't reach for that gun.

[Tom Allen]

No.

[Gink Fannin]

My wrist.

[Tom Allen]

You not shoot either. No. No.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't fire.

[Tonto]

I didn't reach for my gun.

[The Lone Ranger]

Raise your hands. Burton.

[Tom Allen]

You again.

[Tonto]

Where did you come from?

[The Lone Ranger]

How did I follow you here?

[Tonto]

Burton followed me and Joe. Why?

[The Lone Ranger]

Because we were suspicious of you. You gave yourself away when we talked to you before.

[Gink Fannin]

Wrist.

[Tom Allen]

It's broken.

[The Lone Ranger]

Toddo will attend to it after he's dressed. Tom Allen's wounds.

[Tonto]

How did I give myself away?

[The Lone Ranger]

By accusing Todo of shooting and killing a man who we find isn't dead yet. You anticipated that, didn't you? You planned to kill Alan, then put the blame on Toddo. Isn't that it?

[Tonto]

Europe? How did you know?

[The Lone Ranger]

I know a lot of things now. For one, that you're going to jail. For another, that Alan here will have a chance to tear up those papers that deeded you his property. Isn't that right, Tom?

[Tom Allen]

It sure is.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll help you now and get you to town with a doctor.

[Tom Allen]

Wait just a minute, will you? There's something I must get back here in the rear of the cave.

[Tonto]

Something in the rear of the cave?

[Gink Fannin]

Yes.

[Tom Allen]

Say, you fellas didn't think you were the only ones that knew about this place, did you? I've been hiding things up here away from the house for over 20 years. Like money and papers, for instance. You hear that, Clyde? Papers hidden up here, you mean? Yes, that's what I mean. The papers you wanted to get from me were up here. Well, I'll tear them up then. When I see Jed Williams at 8 o', clock, I'll have him fix up some legal documents. Given my ranch to the Territory. It'll make a fine place for a county court and a church and a school. Oh, I sure am glad things happened the way they did.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle led their prisoners into the town of New Hope shortly after dawn. By 8 o', clock, the three crooks were in jail and Tom Allen was finishing his story to the sheriff.

[Tom Allen]

So, Sheriff, I'll stick around a while longer till you get Burton and those other hombres to trial like you planned.

[Tonto]

Well, we'll need your testimony, Tom.

[The Lone Ranger]

Masked man isn't going to stay here.

[Narrator]

Is he here?

[Tom Allen]

Oh, gosh, no. I wish he was. But he's heading south, where he was going when he saw the fire at my place. Oh man, am I glad he stopped off.

[The Lone Ranger]

You should be.

[Tonto]

Tom.

[Tom Allen]

You talk like you know who he is.

[Narrator]

Do you?

[Tom Allen]

I only know what he did for me and what he's done for other people all over the West. That's enough to know. Because he's the Lone Ranger. Sam, it's.

[Narrator]

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

[Tom Allen]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Tom Allen]

Sam.