Old Acquaintance | The Lone Ranger (10-15-52)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns — "Old Acquaintance"

The Lone Ranger Episode (10-15-52), Released December 2, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes

---

Episode Overview

This digitally restored episode of The Lone Ranger immerses listeners in a tale of justice, loyalty, and betrayal set on the turbulent frontier of Claremont County. Reed Caldwell, a retired gunfighter, is reluctantly drawn back into law enforcement when corruption and violence threaten the peace. A network of organized crime, personal allegiances, and old friendships tests the resolve of every character. Tension builds as Caldwell faces off against Wade Torrance, the local crime boss, and his notorious henchman, Star Webb, with support from the legendary Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Reed Caldwell’s Reluctance and Sense of Duty

• Reed Caldwell (Sheriff candidate) is coaxed into service by county supervisors who are desperate to fight back against Wade Torrance's dominance.
  • Caldwell is tired of gunfighting, longing for a peaceful life as a rancher with his new wife ([04:29]).
  • Quote:
    “I'm tired of being a gunfighter.” — Reed Caldwell ([05:13])
• John Burnett (Supervisor Chairman) pressures Caldwell by invoking the lawlessness and the suffering of locals, particularly referencing a child victim ([06:11]).

2. The Threat of Wade Torrance and Star Webb

• Torrance is the de facto ruler through intimidation; his new enforcer, Star Webb, poses a fresh threat.
  • Caldwell admits fear, not of danger but of what violence forces him to do ([05:44]).
  • Quote:
    “I've carried fear like a lump of ice in my chest every time I went for my gun. I haven’t been afraid of the man, exactly. I’ve been afraid I’d have to kill him—many times I have. Don’t want to anymore.” — Reed Caldwell ([05:55])

3. The Lone Ranger's Watchful Support

• Tonto and Reed narrowly escape an assassination attempt; Tonto brings Reed to the Lone Ranger's camp ([07:02]).
• The Lone Ranger, recalling past collaborations, immediately offers his help after learning of current troubles ([08:15]).
  • The Lone Ranger and Tonto have already been investigating rustling and killings in Claremont County.
  • They warn Reed not to trust Rosita Moreno, an old friend who is now business partner with Torrance ([09:33]).

4. The Duality of Rosita Moreno

• Rosita Moreno (Casino owner, former ally) confronts Reed, acknowledging her position against him due to business ties with Torrance, yet tries to warn and protect him ([10:21]-[12:13]).
  • Quote:
    “Because of our old friendship, I do not wish you to destroy yourself. You are one man. And you will get no help from the men who have forced this job on you. They are cowards, every one.” — Rosita Moreno ([11:10])

5. Villains’ Plot and Internal Tensions

• Torrance, Star Webb, and Rosita strategize, realizing they can’t use Caldwell’s wife as leverage because she’s fled for safety ([12:26]).
• Star Webb proposes a trap: fake a shooting at Herb Spencer’s (a secretly complicit rancher) house to lure Reed Caldwell into an ambush ([14:22]-[15:47]).

6. The Ambush and Rosita’s Redemption

• The trap is set and Caldwell responds to a distress call at the Spencer ranch ([17:47]-[21:02]).
• During the confrontation, Rosita is critically wounded while warning Reed ([21:45]). The Lone Ranger intervenes, saving their lives and unmasking Herb Spencer as part of the outlaw gang ([22:47]).
• Quote:
  “So the coyote comes after the wolves. I do not let you.” — Rosita Moreno confronting Spencer ([22:37])

7. Justice Restored: Lone Ranger Takes the Badge

• With Reed wounded, the Lone Ranger is appointed acting sheriff. The townspeople rally, and Reed’s authority is publicly recognized ([24:26]).
  • Quote:
    “Lone Ranger's been appointed Chief deputy and acting sheriff of Claremont County. And I don’t mind telling you that Reed Caldwell has given me authority to arrest Wade Torrance and Star Ware.” — Ben Smith ([24:27])
• Lone Ranger and Tonto outmaneuver Torrance and Webb at the Monte Carlo, thwarting their last stand and arresting them ([25:30]-[27:39]).

8. Resolution and Bittersweet Farewells

• With key criminals jailed, the town regains its courage to testify, ensuring all outlaws are convicted—except Rosita, who is acquitted ([27:55]-[28:18]).
• Reed and Rosita share a quiet moment before she departs for Mexico, her gratitude and regret voiced poignantly:
  • Quote:
    “What would many, many people do without the Lone Ranger?” — Rosita Moreno ([28:52])

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote/Description | |-----------|-------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 05:13 | Reed Caldwell | "I'm tired of being a gunfighter." | | 05:55 | Reed Caldwell | “I've carried fear like a lump of ice in my chest... Don’t want to anymore.” | | 09:49 | Tonto | "Safer not to trust her [Rosita]. In spite of your old friendship." | | 11:19 | Rosita Moreno | “It is more than that. It is suicide. You are one man. And you will get no help...” | | 14:22 | Star Webb | Plan to ambush Caldwell—using Herb Spencer as bait | | 21:47 | Rosita Moreno | “You must go. Get out of here. They are outside. Star and Wade. It was Wade who shot me.” | | 22:47 | Narrator | The Lone Ranger bursts in, saving Reed and Rosita | | 24:27 | Ben Smith | “Lone Ranger’s been appointed Chief deputy and acting sheriff...” | | 28:52 | Rosita Moreno | “What would many, many people do without the Lone Ranger?” |

---

Important Segments (Timestamps)

• [04:13-06:44] — Supervisors pressure Reed to become sheriff; he confesses his weariness with violence.
• [06:54-08:55] — Assassination attempt and meeting with the Lone Ranger.
• [10:21-12:13] — Rosita Moreno’s conflicted warning.
• [14:22-15:47] — Villains orchestrate their ambush plan.
• [21:45-22:47] — Rosita is wounded but saves Reed; the Lone Ranger intervenes.
• [24:22-25:10] — The Lone Ranger is officially empowered to act as sheriff.
• [25:30-27:39] — Final confrontation at the Monte Carlo; villains captured.
• [28:18-28:52] — Rosita’s poignant farewell to Reed and her acknowledgment of the Lone Ranger.

---

Tone & Atmosphere

• The episode maintains a classic, stoic Western tone—heroes are reserved but principled, villains are ruthless, and the frontier laws are enforced with rugged directness.
• Dialogue is terse but sincere, with moments of reflection on violence, justice, and personal cost.

---

Summary

“Old Acquaintance” is a tightly woven Western drama in which the archetypal lone lawman and his allies restore order to a beleaguered county. The plot underscores the pain and sacrifice involved in upholding justice—especially for those, like Reed Caldwell, who long for peace but are unwilling to turn away from duty. In the end, the presence of the Lone Ranger and Tonto both embolden the innocent and bring heel for justice to the lawbreakers, while old friendships are tested, and the cost of heroism is poignantly felt through Rosita Moreno's bittersweet departure.

---

Transcript

[Reed Caldwell]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. You can find more western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

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

[Reed Caldwell]

Sam.

[Matt Rogers]

This is Matt Rogers from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Matt Rogers]

Hey, Bowen. It's gift season.

[Tonto]

Ugh.

[Bowen Yang]

Stressing me out. Why are the people I love so hard to shop for?

[Matt Rogers]

Probably they only make boring gift guides that are totally uninspired. Except for the guide we made in.

[Bowen Yang]

Partnership with Marshalls, where premium gifts meet incredible value.

[Matt Rogers]

It's giving gifts with categories like Best Gifts for the mom whose idea of a sensible walking shoe is a stiletto.

[Bowen Yang]

Or Best Gifts for Me that were so thoughtful I really shouldn't have.

[Matt Rogers]

Check out the guide on marshalls.com and.

[Bowen Yang]

Gift the good stuff at Marshall.

[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 hoop beats of the great horse. Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Reed Caldwell]

Monsieur.

[Herb Spencer]

Let's go, big fella.

[John Burnett]

Hi ho, Silver.

[Reed Caldwell]

Hi.

[Narrator]

The five county supervisors sat facing Reed Caldwell on the far side of the long table. Reid watched each of them as they spoke in turn. His gray eyes were steady and his lean, tanned face showed no expression until John Burnett, the chairman, summed up for the board.

[John Burnett]

And so the situation simply this is the Board of Supervisors. We're supposed to govern the county. In reality, it's Wade Torrance who runs it. And he'll continue to run it until we can find a sheriff who isn't afraid of him.

[Reed Caldwell]

John, I'm married now. I bought a ranch. I came here to Claremont county to raise cattle, not to wear a badge.

[John Burnett]

You want to live in peace, is that it?

[Reed Caldwell]

Yes.

[John Burnett]

Well, then you've come to the wrong place. Your cowhands will be killed and your cattle run off just the same as ours have been.

[Reed Caldwell]

How long ago was Tim Dolan shot?

[John Burnett]

He was dry gulched a month ago.

[Reed Caldwell]

What have you been doing for a.

[John Burnett]

Sheriff since then, Ben Smith has been running office.

[Reed Caldwell]

Well, let him keep on. I promise that I'll serve on a posse anytime he calls on me.

[John Burnett]

But Ben's an old man. He isn't equal to the job and he knows it. He should be the turnkey of the jail and nothing more.

[Reed Caldwell]

Well, find a younger man then. I'm not so young myself.

[John Burnett]

You're the best gunfighter I ever met.

[Reed Caldwell]

I'm tired of being a gunfighter.

[John Burnett]

They say you have the fastest draw in the West.

[Reed Caldwell]

Did you ever hear of a masked man called the Lone Ranger?

[Tonto]

Of course.

[Reed Caldwell]

I hope you don't think I could outlaw him.

[John Burnett]

Well, you'd never have to. He's on the side of the law. But you're more than a match for any of Wade Torrance's game.

[Reed Caldwell]

I'm not even sure of that. I saw Star Webb with Torrance this morning.

[John Burnett]

Well, he. He just arrived in Claremont City.

[Reed Caldwell]

Doesn't he intend to stay?

[John Burnett]

You're not afraid of him, are you, Reid?

[Reed Caldwell]

I didn't say that. But perhaps I am. Perhaps I've been afraid of every gunman I ever went after. What would you say to that?

[John Burnett]

I'd say no one would ever guess it.

[Reed Caldwell]

Well, it's true. I think I've carried fear like a lump of ice in my chest every time I went for my gun. I haven't been afraid of the man exactly. I've been afraid I'd have to kill him many times. I have. Don't want to anymore.

[John Burnett]

Torrance's men burned down the Turner Ranch three months ago. They shot little Mary Turner when she tried to stop them from taking a pony.

[Reed Caldwell]

I hadn't heard about that.

[John Burnett]

Do such men deserve to live?

[Reed Caldwell]

Can you give me any evidence that will warrant my arresting Wade Torrance?

[John Burnett]

No, Reed. It will be up to you to get the evidence.

[Reed Caldwell]

I haven't said I'd take the jump.

[John Burnett]

You mean to, though. I can see it in your eyes.

[Reed Caldwell]

All right, where's the badge?

[Narrator]

Reed stepped out into the moonlight and started down the main street to the livery stable where he had left his horse. Suddenly, a hand reached out and pulled him into the opening between two buildings.

[Reed Caldwell]

Hey, what's the idea?

[Narrator]

And then a bullet ricocheted from the corner post of one of the buildings. And Reed allowed himself to be drawn farther back from the street.

[Reed Caldwell]

That bullet was meant for me.

[Narrator]

That right?

[Reed Caldwell]

Yertado? What are you doing here? Lone Ranger may camp near here. He won't talk with you. You come with me. Sure thing. But how did you know someone was going to take a shot? At me see barrel of rifle in second floor hotel, Cross street. Torrance room dark. Me not see face a man behind rifle. I didn't mean that Torrance actually fired the shot himself. But he must have given orders that I was to be killed if I walked out of the supervisor's office wearing a badge. Maybe so. I should do something about this. Go after the man who shot at me. Him gone now. You'll not find him. Better you come with me, talk to mask man. My horse is at the livery stable. Well, you take Allie and get there. Me meet you west of town. I'll meet you in 10 minutes.

[Narrator]

Totto and Reed met outside town and the Indian led the way to the Lone Rangers camp. Years before, the masked man had helped Reed round up a band of smugglers in Los Gatos on the border. And when they clasped hands that night, Reed didn't have to be told the Lone Ranger was ready to help him once again.

[Reed Caldwell]

I suppose you're here because you've heard about the trouble Wade Torrance has been making.

[Tonto]

We've been camped here for two days, Reed. During that time, Tahlo's brought me many stories of the rustling and killing that's been going on. We learned you'd bought a ranch in the county. We learned the supervisors meant to offer you the job of sheriff. That's why Tommy was waiting for you in town tonight.

[Reed Caldwell]

If he hadn't been, I'd be dead.

[Tonto]

What happened?

[Reed Caldwell]

Them shoot at him? They were waiting for me when I came out of the supervisor's office. But Tano had spotted their ambush and pulled me into the shelter of a building just as the shot was fired. In a way, it's flattering. Means Torrance is afraid of me, doesn't it?

[Tonto]

Yes. If he weren't, Tano and I might not be here.

[Reed Caldwell]

Don't understand.

[Tonto]

We knew nothing of the situation in the county until we arrived. Then why we followed Star Web from Tombstone. Tono overheard him talking to some men there. He'd received a message there was a job waiting for him in Claremont County. A job that would pay $1,000.

[Reed Caldwell]

May hear him say your name. I see Torrance sent for my executioner.

[Tonto]

Webb is here to act as Torrance's bodyguard. If you ever try to arrest Torrance, you'll have to shoot it out with Star Web first.

[Reed Caldwell]

That's definite enough. Forewarned is forearmed, though.

[Tonto]

I. I have another warning, Reed.

[Reed Caldwell]

What's that?

[Tonto]

You know who owns the Monte Carlo?

[Reed Caldwell]

No, I've never been in the place.

[Tonto]

The owner is rosita Moreno from Los Gatos. You remember her?

[Reed Caldwell]

Of course. She was a very good friend.

[Tonto]

She may have been at one time, Reed. She isn't now.

[Reed Caldwell]

It would be hard to believe that, Rosita.

[Tonto]

Will you take my word for it?

[Reed Caldwell]

I've never known you to be wrong.

[Tonto]

Rosita isn't the sole owner of the Monte Carlo. Torrence is her silent partner.

[Reed Caldwell]

You're sure of that? You hear him talk. Well, in that case, it would be.

[Tonto]

Safer not to trust her. In spite of your old friendship.

[Reed Caldwell]

I. I remember your warning.

[Narrator]

Reed took over his duties as sheriff the next morning. And shortly before noon, Rosita Moreno walked into his office.

[Rosita Moreno]

Buenos dias, Senor Sherry.

[Reed Caldwell]

Hello, Rosita.

[Rosita Moreno]

May I speak to you in private?

[Reed Caldwell]

Just close the door and sit down.

[Rosita Moreno]

Thank you.

[Reed Caldwell]

It's been a long time.

[Rosita Moreno]

There have been changes.

[Reed Caldwell]

I'm back at my old job.

[Rosita Moreno]

Perhaps it is I who have changed most. But then, I always was a gambler, no? Yes, a gambler, but not a cheat. And that is why I have come to you this morning. To tell you the truth, I am on the other side in this town.

[Reed Caldwell]

So I've been told.

[Rosita Moreno]

And you understand. I play to win. I shall not let an old friendship interfere with my winning.

[Reed Caldwell]

You've made yourself perfectly clear. Is that all?

[Rosita Moreno]

No. Because of our old friendship, I do not wish you to destroy yourself.

[Reed Caldwell]

I've already learned that wearing a badge is dangerous business around here.

[Rosita Moreno]

It is more than that. It is suicide. You are one man. And you will get no help from the men who have forced this job on you. They are cowards, every one.

[Reed Caldwell]

If that's all, I.

[Rosita Moreno]

It is not quite all. I have seen your wife. She is young and pretty and good. You will be away from her a great deal. You must think of the danger to her as well as to yourself.

[Reed Caldwell]

I already have. We made our decisions last night. Sue's left the county, Rosita, and she'll not return until Torrance is behind bars. Why do you laugh?

[Rosita Moreno]

Torrance will not like that. He was counting on your fear for her safety. You have won the first trick. But I still say you will lose the game and I shall be playing against you.

[Reed Caldwell]

As you wish, Rosita.

[Rosita Moreno]

As fate makes it necessary if we speak of wishes. I wish you good luck. Kamiko.

[Narrator]

Wade Torrens, burly and bearded and star webbed, cold and ruthless, were waiting in the office of La Monte Carlo for Rosita. Wade jumped to his feet as she entered the room.

[Rosita Moreno]

Well, I told you it would be no use for me to go and see him. He is not a man who scares easily.

[Narrator]

Did you warn him we might go after his wife?

[Rosita Moreno]

That plan you must throw at the window. She is gone.

[Tonto]

Gone where?

[Rosita Moreno]

I was not fool enough to ask him where. Do you think he would have told me? No aid. You will not be able to strike at him through a woman. The attack must be direct. It is now up to this so brave gunfighter you have brought from Santa Fe.

[Star Webb]

You don't think much of me, do you, Rosita?

[Rosita Moreno]

I reserve my judgment.

[Narrator]

You'd better get out of here, Rosita.

[Rosita Moreno]

Why? This is my office.

[Narrator]

I said get out. I want to talk to Star alone.

[Rosita Moreno]

Very well, if you have no need of brains.

[Herb Spencer]

What's that?

[Rosita Moreno]

I shall be in the gambling room if you find you need me.

[Reed Caldwell]

She's a smart one. Yeah, too smart for her own good.

[Narrator]

But she spoke the truth a few minutes ago.

[Reed Caldwell]

Stir.

[Narrator]

It's up to you now.

[Star Webb]

Just what do you want me to do?

[Narrator]

Pick a fight with Caldwell and beat.

[Tonto]

Him to the draw? Well?

[Star Webb]

Oh, I can do it. But I'm not sure it's a wise thing for you.

[Narrator]

Why not?

[Star Webb]

The witnesses of the shooting will go to the governor of the territory. They'll tell him one of your hired hand shot Caldwell and cold blood. You'll have United States marshals here. Might even have the militia.

[Reed Caldwell]

It's not so good.

[Star Webb]

Good at all.

[Reed Caldwell]

For you.

[Star Webb]

I'll be across the border. They'll never be able to touch me.

[Narrator]

It should happen where there aren't any witnesses.

[Reed Caldwell]

Right.

[Narrator]

But after last night, Caldwell will be watching for another ambush.

[Tonto]

Of course.

[Star Webb]

And he's a cagey bird.

[Narrator]

There's only some way we could set.

[Reed Caldwell]

A trap for him.

[Star Webb]

There is.

[John Burnett]

How?

[Star Webb]

He's sworn to uphold the law. That means whenever the law is broken, he has to do something about it.

[Tonto]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Come on. What's your idea?

[Star Webb]

Herb? Spencer.

[Reed Caldwell]

What about him?

[Star Webb]

No one knows about the agreement you have with Spencer. No one knows you drive the cattle you rustle into the canyons on his south range. That that's where you change their brands before driving them across the border.

[Narrator]

Listen, Spencer is useful to me because he's supposed to be respectful. You can't have any open connection with my operation.

[Star Webb]

I'm not suggesting that. As you say, Spencer is supposed to be respectable. If he calls for help, the sheriff will have to give it to him.

[Narrator]

The sheriff will. With a posse at his back.

[Star Webb]

I'll wait. Suppose it's the dead of night. A cowhand comes racing up to the sheriff's office. Reid's living in the quarters and back now. Cowhand has a message. Spencer's been shot. He's dying. He wants to identify you and me as the men who shot him. He wants the law to have his testimony. Caldwell may give his deputy orders to round up a posse and follow him, but he'll not wait for any posse. He'll head for the Spencer ranch alone, and we'll not have to worry about any witnesses to Caldwell's death.

[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.

[Matt Rogers]

This is Matt Rogers from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Lost Culture Resource with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Matt Rogers]

Hey, Bowen. It's gift season. Ugh.

[Bowen Yang]

Stressing me out. Why are the people I love so hard to shop for?

[Matt Rogers]

Probably because they only make boring gift guides that are totally uninspired. Except for the guide we made in.

[Bowen Yang]

Partnership with Marshall's, where premium gifts mean incredible value.

[Matt Rogers]

It's giving gifts with categories like Best Gifts for the mom whose idea of a sensible walking shoe is a stiletto.

[Bowen Yang]

Or Best Gifts for me that were so thoughtful I really shouldn't have.

[Matt Rogers]

Check out the guide on Marshall's do and gift.

[Bowen Yang]

The good stuff at Marshalls.

[Reed Caldwell]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. On the evening of the day Wade Torrance and Star Webb made their plans to murder Reed Caldwell, Toto rode into the Lone Rangers camp.

[Tonto]

You've been riding hard, Kimosabe.

[Reed Caldwell]

Maybe we find place where Russell would take cattle. Them steal Where? The rough country south of Spencer Ranch.

[Tonto]

I know. Any of those canyons might do it. A hiding place. But they have no water or grass.

[Reed Caldwell]

Maybe that not so. If fine Sina cattle lead into Badlands.

[Tonto]

Then every one of the canyons must be searched. And we'll start tonight. Here's Uber.

[Narrator]

At 11 o' clock that evening, Herb Spencer was pacing the floor of his living room, arguing with Wade Torrance and Star Webb.

[Herb Spencer]

Wade, you must admit that I've done everything you've asked me to. But this is impossible. It would mean throwing away my good name.

[Star Webb]

I don't see what you're so excited about, Spencer. All we ask is that you send one of your men into town with a message for the sheriff that you've been shot.

[Herb Spencer]

What happens afterwards?

[Star Webb]

We'll take care of that.

[Herb Spencer]

You'll get rid of the sheriff and I'll be blamed for leading him into a trap. He will soon find out I haven't been shot. If my message to the sheriff was nothing but a trick.

[Star Webb]

Is that all you're worried about?

[Herb Spencer]

It's something I'll not be able to conceal.

[Star Webb]

Your worries are over. You shot me exactly where I meant to shoot you. In your left arm.

[Reed Caldwell]

Help me.

[Star Webb]

Of course.

[Reed Caldwell]

Come here.

[Star Webb]

Sit down on the couch.

[Herb Spencer]

There are bandages and a septic in that cupboard.

[Star Webb]

Well, this is what you ask for, isn't it? Now you can send your message to the sheriff and you'll be telling the complete truth.

[Narrator]

Have Marty take the message to town. Get rid of your other men. Send them out to one of your line camps for the night. Star and I'll be waiting for the sheriff in the bunkhouse. We don't want anyone else around.

[Herb Spencer]

Cold blooded killers, both of you. Oh, boy.

[Narrator]

The cowhand from the Spencer ranch dismounted in front of the sheriff's office and pounded on the door. A moment later, Reed Caldwell opened it. Ben Smith, his deputy, stood directly behind him.

[Star Webb]

Sheriff, Herb Spencer wants you.

[Reed Caldwell]

What's happened?

[Herb Spencer]

He's been shot. He's in a bad way and he.

[Star Webb]

Wants to see you before it's too late.

[Herb Spencer]

Who shot him?

[Star Webb]

I saw Wade Torrance and Star Webb.

[Herb Spencer]

Ride away from the ranch house right after it happened. You better get out there fast.

[Star Webb]

I'm going for the doctor.

[Reed Caldwell]

Ben. Yeah? Round up as many men as you can trust and meet me at the Spencer range.

[Narrator]

Ben found two of the men he was looking for in the Monte Carlo. And as he started toward the door with them, Rosita stopped him.

[Rosita Moreno]

Ben, what is this all about? How's it grosling?

[Herb Spencer]

You tend to your business, and I'll tend to mine.

[Rosita Moreno]

Rosita, you must tell me.

[Herb Spencer]

This is the end of your crowd. Herb Spencer's been shot and he's ready to make a statement that it was Ray Torrance and Star Webb that did it.

[Rosita Moreno]

Where's Herb?

[Herb Spencer]

At his ranch.

[Reed Caldwell]

The sheriff's on his way there. And as soon as I round up.

[Herb Spencer]

A few more men, we're going after him.

[Rosita Moreno]

You fools.

[John Burnett]

Come on, man. All right, man.

[Rosita Moreno]

This is murder.

[Narrator]

When Reed Caldwell burst into the ranch house, he found Herb Spencer sitting at his desk, his bandage gleaming white in the lamplight.

[Reed Caldwell]

Well, from what your hand told me, I gathered you were dying, Spencer.

[Herb Spencer]

Are you disappointed about that, Sheriff?

[Reed Caldwell]

No, I'm here for your statement.

[Herb Spencer]

I'm not sure I have any to make.

[Reed Caldwell]

Your man said you did.

[Herb Spencer]

Well, I've been thinking it over. Since the wound isn't serious, I've decided not to press charges.

[Reed Caldwell]

Spencer, this is our chance to arrest Wade Torrance and Star Webb.

[Herb Spencer]

I doubt if you'd be able to do that. Chair.

[Reed Caldwell]

You leave it to me. That's Rosita.

[Herb Spencer]

What's she doing here? What?

[Reed Caldwell]

Go.

[Rosita Moreno]

Go. Quickly.

[Reed Caldwell]

Rosita.

[Herb Spencer]

She's been shot. Put her on the couch.

[Rosita Moreno]

You must go. Get out of here. They are outside. Star and Wade. It was Wade who shot me.

[Reed Caldwell]

See what you can do for us, Spencer. I'm going after them.

[Rosita Moreno]

In heaven's name, put out the lamp. They will shoot through the window. Reed, you have been hit.

[Reed Caldwell]

I'll get the lamp. Keep down.

[Rosita Moreno]

Do as Spencer is doing. Lie flat on the floor.

[Reed Caldwell]

Not while there's a chance of putting a bullet through them.

[Rosita Moreno]

They will see you at the window.

[Reed Caldwell]

Hey, they're riding away.

[Rosita Moreno]

Are you sure?

[Reed Caldwell]

Heading for town. Oh, I think I see why. Two riders coming this way from the south.

[Rosita Moreno]

From the south?

[Herb Spencer]

Well, there's no reason why we shouldn't light the lamp again.

[Rosita Moreno]

Who are they?

[Herb Spencer]

I'm not sure, but how about. Hold your hand, Sheriff.

[Reed Caldwell]

What?

[Herb Spencer]

You heard me. Drop your gun and reach for the shield engine. And it's too bad one shot wasn't enough. It's up to me now.

[Rosita Moreno]

So the coyote comes after the wolves. I do not let you.

[Herb Spencer]

Here we are. You, Sheriff.

[Narrator]

But as Spencer leveled his gun at the sheriff, the Lone Ranger stepped into the room. And the bullet from his gun drove cleanly through Spencer's forearm. Before he could squeeze the trigger, a masked man.

[Reed Caldwell]

The Lone Ranger.

[Herb Spencer]

Spencer, he get gun.

[Tonto]

You've been wounded, Reed.

[Reed Caldwell]

Never mind me. Take care of Rosita.

[Tonto]

We'll do what we can.

[Narrator]

During the next few minutes, the Lone Ranger and Tottle worked desperately to save Rosita's life. When all that could be done for her had been done. Reid's right shoulder and Spencer's arm were bandaged. Then, as they watched Rosita for some sign of returning consciousness, the sheriff told the masked man everything that had happened.

[Reed Caldwell]

So it turns out that Spencer is a member of Torrance's gang.

[Tonto]

We suspected that when Tom and I found stolen cattle in one of the canyons south of here.

[Herb Spencer]

Sheriff, I want you to know I was forced to do what I did. I escaped from prison in Kansas five years ago. Torrance knew it and threatened to send me back there unless I took his orders.

[Reed Caldwell]

You'll hang for murder if Rosita dies. And so will Torrance and Webb.

[Tonto]

You say they headed back for town?

[Reed Caldwell]

They started in that direction.

[Rosita Moreno]

Torrance will not Rosita Ulysse. Torrance will not run away. He has too much to lose in Claremont. And he Knows you are wounded, if not dead. There is no one else in the county who would dare try to arrest him.

[Reed Caldwell]

Rosita, I want you to meet the man who saved your life. This is the Lone Ranger.

[Rosita Moreno]

So then there is someone who might dare.

[Narrator]

The following morning, the people of Claremont clustered around Ben Smith as he tacked a penciled notice to the door of the sheriff's office.

[John Burnett]

The Lone Ranger. Where'd he come from?

[Herb Spencer]

This some kind of a joke, Ben?

[Tonto]

Joke?

[Reed Caldwell]

Nothing.

[Herb Spencer]

You just read what it says. Lone Ranger's been appointed Chief deputy and acting sheriff of Clermont County. And I don't mind telling you that Reed Caldwell has given me authority to arrest Wade Torrance and Star Ware.

[Narrator]

The news swept like wildfire through the town. There was a moment of high excitement and then the townspeople began to think of their own safety as they learned Torrance and Webb were prepared to defy the law. By noon, the main street was deserted. Ben Smith met the Lone Ranger and Tonto in a grove outside the town.

[Star Webb]

They're not running.

[Reed Caldwell]

They mean to fight.

[Tonto]

Where are they?

[Reed Caldwell]

In the Monte Carlo.

[Tonto]

Alone?

[Reed Caldwell]

Yeah. None of Wade's chief help wants any part of this.

[Tonto]

Reed Canard on that.

[Reed Caldwell]

But there's still two of them against one of you. We go with Mask Branton.

[Herb Spencer]

Even so, I don't see how you.

[Reed Caldwell]

Going to manage it.

[Herb Spencer]

Soon as you walk through the door.

[Reed Caldwell]

Of the Monte Carlo, you'll stop putting lead into you.

[Tonto]

There's more than one entrance to the Monte Carlo.

[Narrator]

A few moments later, the Lone Ranger and Tonto were walking down the main street toward the Monte Carlo town.

[Reed Caldwell]

Pretty quiet.

[Tonto]

Yes. You're sure about the layout of the cafe?

[Reed Caldwell]

Ah, there are outside stairs and back lead the second floor.

[Tonto]

The door will be locked. What's beyond the door?

[Reed Caldwell]

The hall lead to balcony.

[Tonto]

The balcony above the gaming room. Good enough.

[Narrator]

Inside the Monte Carlo, Wade Torrin stood behind the bar, facing the front door. Star Webb watched at one of the windows. You see him?

[Reed Caldwell]

Yeah. He isn't alone.

[Star Webb]

He has an Indian with him.

[Reed Caldwell]

One they called Toto. Where are they?

[Star Webb]

Halfway down the block.

[Reed Caldwell]

Better get back here with me. Right.

[Narrator]

Star took his place behind the bar with Wade, and together they waited. The minutes passed slowly. They'll kick the door in and step.

[Reed Caldwell]

Back from the opening. Shoot at the first sound.

[Star Webb]

They're taking their time about it.

[Tonto]

Listen.

[Reed Caldwell]

Breaking in upstairs. They're inside. Come on the other side of the room.

[Narrator]

We'll plug them as soon as they step out. In the balcony, Torrance and Webb waited in their new position. But no one appeared on the balcony.

[Reed Caldwell]

They could have taken the back stairs.

[Star Webb]

Down to the kitchen.

[Reed Caldwell]

And watch the kitchen door. I'll keep an eye on the balcony.

[Narrator]

Another five minutes of silence, and then.

[Reed Caldwell]

What's that?

[Star Webb]

The trap door behind the bar. They went down to the cellar. From the kitchen, they found the steps that lead up to the bar.

[Narrator]

Let's get out of here. Torrance and Webb paid no attention to the Lone Ranger's command. They threw open the door of the cafe, only to find Toto standing in the middle of the street, his guns drawn.

[Herb Spencer]

Drop guns.

[Narrator]

Torrance chose Tonto as his target. Star Web whirled to fire at the Lone Ranger behind the bar. But it was the bullets of the masked man and the Indian that found their mark. The two outlaws dropped in the doorway, both of them badly wounded.

[Tonto]

You're under arrest for murder and robbery.

[Narrator]

Half an hour later, their wounds bended, Torrance and Webb joined Spencer in jail. The town celebrated. And in the days that followed, with the ringleaders behind bars, the people of the county found their courage and hurried forward to give evidence against the gang. Every one of them was tried and convicted, with one exception. On the day Rosita was acquitted, she walked from the courthouse with Reed Caldwell.

[Rosita Moreno]

Now it is all over, Reed. And your pretty wife may come home.

[Reed Caldwell]

Yes, Rosita.

[Rosita Moreno]

Home is where I belong, too. I shall go back to Mexico.

[Reed Caldwell]

There's no reason.

[Rosita Moreno]

There are many reasons. And it is better not to speak of them. I am happy for you. And I am grateful to everyone for their kindness.

[Reed Caldwell]

Kindness? If it hadn't been for you.

[Rosita Moreno]

What I did was so little, Reed. It was you and your friend who brought peace to this town and this county.

[Reed Caldwell]

I don't deserve much credit. What would I have done without him?

[Rosita Moreno]

It is a good question. What would many, many people do without the lone rang.

[Reed Caldwell]

It?

[Matt Rogers]

This is Matt Rogers from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Bowen Yang]

This is Bowen Yang from Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang.

[Matt Rogers]

Hey, Bowen. It's gift season.

[Reed Caldwell]

Ugh.

[Bowen Yang]

Stressing me out. Why are the people I love so hard to shop for?

[Matt Rogers]

Probably because they only make boring gift guides that are totally uninspired. Except for the guide we made in.

[Bowen Yang]

Partnership with Marshalls, where premium gifts meet incredible value.

[Matt Rogers]

It's giving gifts with categories like Best Gifts for the mom whose idea of a sensible walking shoe is a stiletto.

[Bowen Yang]

Or Best Gifts for Me that were so thoughtful I really shouldn't have.

[Matt Rogers]

Check out the guide on marshalls.com and.

[Bowen Yang]

Gift the good stuff at Marshall.

[Reed Caldwell]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

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

[Reed Caldwell]

Sam.