Old Olly’s Hat | The Lone Ranger (05-12-52)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Old Olly’s Hat | The Lone Ranger (05-12-52)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: October 24, 2025
Episode: Digital Restoration of “The Lone Ranger” — Old Olly’s Hat (original airdate: May 12, 1952)

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Episode Overview

This classic Lone Ranger episode, beautifully restored, transports listeners to the Wild West, recounting a tense tale of loyalty, greed, and justice. It follows the misadventures of old prospector Ollie Hooker and his young partner Gary Odin, who strike gold but soon find themselves ensnared in a deadly plot orchestrated by the unscrupulous land agent, Sam Drake. The Lone Ranger and Tonto must untangle a web of deception after Ollie’s apparent murder, racing to save an innocent man from wrongful execution.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene: Ollie and Gary Strike Gold

[05:15 – 08:31]

• Ollie Hooker, an aging prospector, and Gary Odin, his loyal young partner, rejoice at their newfound wealth: “Son, at last we've struck it rich. We got that black satchel over there under the bunk full of gold!” (Ollie Hooker, [05:27])
• Ollie intends to repay Sam Drake, the land agent who staked him, but Gary spots masked men approaching—it's the Lone Ranger and Tonto.
• Initial suspicion is quickly dispelled when Ollie recognizes the Lone Ranger and explains their shared history defending Fort Fillmore: “These hombres help the law, all right.” (Ollie Hooker, [06:19])

2. The Seed of Betrayal: Sam Drake’s Deceit

[08:44 – 12:27]

• Ollie and Gary bring gold to Drake, expecting to settle their debt. However, Drake claims Ollie signed an agreement promising him half the mine, not just repayment.
• Ollie, unable to read, was tricked:
  • “You didn't sign a note.” (Sam Drake, [10:13])
  • “Then what was it?” (Ollie Hooker, [10:24])
• Tension grows between Gary and Ollie as Gary feels cheated, but they soon resolve to seek a lawyer.

3. The Crime: Ollie Disappears and Gary Is Framed

[13:07 – 16:49]

• Before dawn, Ollie answers a knock at the cabin. Gunfire and confusion follow; Gary is knocked out.
• The sheriff arrests Gary for Ollie’s murder, based on circumstantial evidence:
  • “Gary Odin put in jail this morning. Them say he murder old feller.” (Tonto, [13:59])
  • “You shot your partner and then tossed him over into the rapids below.” (Sheriff, [15:42])
• Gary passionately maintains his innocence: “No, that's a lie. I heard a shot before I got outside. Then I was knocked out. That's all I know, Sheriff.” (Gary Odin, [15:49])

4. The Investigation: The Lone Ranger Steps In

[19:29 – 21:53]

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto believe Gary, noting inconsistencies:
  • “I remember Ollie saying he never wore his hat except when he went to town. And he certainly wouldn't put his hat on to answer the door during the night.” (The Lone Ranger, [19:44])
• They deduce the evidence was staged to frame Gary and investigate the scene, narrowly avoiding an ambush from Drake’s men.

5. The Plot Unravels: Conspiracy Revealed

[22:01 – 23:22]

• Sam Drake instructs his cronies to find the gold and lay low until Gary's swift conviction.
• The Lone Ranger, disguised as Ollie, infiltrates Drake’s office, laying a trap.

6. Courtroom Showdown and Final Justice

[23:54 – 31:16]

• At Gary’s trial, the judge seems ready to convict based on damning testimony until, dramatically, “Ollie Hooker” appears alive.
• The Lone Ranger’s sting exposes Drake:
  • “By jiminy. What makes you so sure I'm dead, Sam Grady. Who said that?” (Ollie/Disguised Lone Ranger, [25:15])
  • The satchel of gold is found in Drake’s office. His henchmen break under pressure, implicating him in the attempted murder.
• The Lone Ranger reveals his ruse: “I disguise myself as near as possible to look like Ollie. Though my voice almost gave me away. The plan worked, Drake.” (The Lone Ranger, [29:01])

7. Resolution and Restoration

[31:01 – 31:16 onward]

• Gary is exonerated; the judge declares the agreement null, having been obtained by trickery:
  • “About that agreement Ollie signed. According to the facts as I see him, that signature is obtained by fraud and trickery.” (Judge, [30:08])
• Ollie had already changed the claim registry to ensure Gary’s partnership.
• As for the Lone Ranger’s identity? “He's a mighty fine hombre who helps folks that are in trouble, Judge. He's the Lone Ranger.” (Gary Odin, [31:01])

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Notable Quotes

• “Son, at last we've struck it rich. We got that black satchel over there under the bunk full of gold.”
  — Ollie Hooker, [05:27]

• “These hombres help the law, all right.”
  — Ollie Hooker, [06:19]

• “I remember Ollie saying he never wore his hat except when he went to town. And he certainly wouldn't put his hat on to answer the door during the night.”
  — The Lone Ranger, [19:44]

• “By jiminy. What makes you so sure I'm dead, Sam Grady. Who said that?”
  — “Ollie”/The Lone Ranger in disguise, [25:15]

• “I disguise myself as near as possible to look like Ollie. Though my voice almost gave me away. The plan worked, Drake.”
  — The Lone Ranger, [29:01]

• “He's a mighty fine hombre who helps folks that are in trouble, Judge. He's the Lone Ranger.”
  — Gary Odin, [31:01]

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Key Timestamps

• [05:27] – Ollie and Gary celebrate their gold strike
• [06:19] – Ollie vouches for the Lone Ranger & Tonto
• [10:13-10:24] – Drake reveals the tricked agreement
• [13:59] – Tonto brings word of Gary’s arrest
• [15:49] – Gary insists on his innocence
• [19:44] – The hat clue: Lone Ranger’s critical insight
• [23:56] – Trial opens; Judge presides
• [25:15] – "Ollie" exposes Sam Drake in court
• [29:01] – The Lone Ranger reveals his disguise
• [31:01] – Gary reveals The Lone Ranger’s role

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Memorable Moments

• Ollie’s Hat as Clue: The repeated mention of Ollie’s hat — rarely worn except in town — becomes the pivot for the Lone Ranger unraveling the frame-up.
• Courtroom Drama: The surprise entrance by “Ollie” shocks everyone, flipping the entire case and causing crooks to incriminate themselves in their panic.
• Lone Ranger’s Disguise: The iconic hero’s use of disguise, both clever and risky, not only saves Gary but also delivers poetic justice to Drake and his men.

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Tone and Style

The episode maintains the energetic, upright, and slightly theatrical tone characteristic of classic Western radio—featuring a clear sense of justice, camaraderie, sharp suspense, and satisfying resolution. The Lone Ranger’s dialogue is measured and principled, Ollie is gruff yet warmhearted, and Gary is earnest throughout. Villains like Drake are sly and menacing, portrayed with relish.

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In Summary

“Old Olly’s Hat” showcases the enduring appeal of the Lone Ranger: quick wits, unwavering friendships, and the triumph of justice—even when the odds seem insurmountable. With restored sound quality, the immersive atmosphere of the Old West comes alive, and these timeless themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption still speak to listeners today.

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Transcript

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[Sam Drake]

From the Cascades to PDX to your kitchen, we recycle like we live here. That's why governments, brands, and recycling companies are all joining together to bring change.

[Narrator]

To make recycling better.

[Ollie Hooker]

As in trusting that your recyclables end.

[Narrator]

Up in the right places to be made into new things and having brands.

[Sam Drake]

Help fund the cost of recycling. You can find the Latest updates at.

[Ollie Hooker]

Recycleon.Org Oregon From Mount Hood to the.

[Sam Drake]

Bin under your desk, together we can do this.

[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. O Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Ollie Hooker]

Sam that's.

[Sam Drake]

The sound of James adding long lasting gain scent boosters to his laundry this morning. Several hours later, James sniffs the irresistible scent of gain on his shirt. Ah, Gain. Several hours later, James has even caught the attention of his mother in law and she never gives him attention.

[Narrator]

Ooh, you smell amazing, James.

[Sam Drake]

Oh, thanks Mom. I love you too.

[Ollie Hooker]

I never said that.

[Sam Drake]

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 hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Sam Drake]

Come on, Silver.

[Gary Odin]

Let's go.

[The Lone Ranger]

Big fellow.

[Sam Drake]

Iute, Silver.

[Ollie Hooker]

Away.

[Narrator]

Inside a cabin a short distance from the edge of a canyon through which a river flowed, two men, an old prospector named Ollie and a young man about 22 named Gary Odin, stood putting gold into a small sack.

[Ollie Hooker]

Son, at last we've struck it rich. We got that black satchel over there under the bunk full of gold. And this sack fool is to go to Sam Drake, the man who staked me to this claim.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, gosh, Ellie, it was a lucky day when I met you.

[Ollie Hooker]

It was far luckier for me, Gary. If it hadn't been for you, I wouldn't be here to enjoy making the strike. There. I reckon that'll more than pay back what Sam Drake lent me. We'll ride into machine.

[Gary Odin]

Wait a minute, Ollie. Somebody's riding the trail along the canyon rim. Couple hombres coming this way. I see them through the window.

[Ollie Hooker]

Land of Goshen. It's the masked man and Injy.

[Gary Odin]

They'll rob us. Let's go. Get the drop on them. Come on.

[Ollie Hooker]

No, wait. Wait, Gary.

[Gary Odin]

We have you both covered. You better stop where you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're not outlaws, if that's what you.

[Gary Odin]

Think that mask says you are. By Gemini, a few.

[Ollie Hooker]

Hold on, Gary. Hold on.

[Gary Odin]

What's the matter, Ollie?

[Ollie Hooker]

I know about this masked man, an Indian. Like he says, they aren't outlaws. Year ago or so, I was at Fort Fillmore with the settlers for protection against the savages. This masked man, an Indian, helped save the fort?

[Sam Drake]

Yes, sir, that's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

I thought I'd seen you before, but I wasn't sure.

[Ollie Hooker]

Now put up your gun, Gary. These hombres help the law, all right.

[Gary Odin]

If you say so, Ollie.

[Ollie Hooker]

Sure, I say so. By Jupiter, if you ever need a friend, son, just call on them. Mister, why don't you and the Indian get off your horses a spell? Got something inside we want to show.

[The Lone Ranger]

You all I remember now. You're Ollie Hooker.

[Ollie Hooker]

Right the first time. And this is Gary Olden, my partner. Gary saved my life a few months ago when I was jumped on by a couple of redskins. I got the scar on my cheek from that fracas. I made Gary my partner on the spot. And at last we've struck gold.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm glad to meet you, Gary.

[Gary Odin]

Same here, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

And I'm also glad about your good fortune.

[Sam Drake]

It's plenty good.

[Ollie Hooker]

I've been trying to think, and it just come to me. Your name is Tonto and you're known as the Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's right.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, gosh, I've heard a lot about you, mister. I'm mighty happy to meet you both.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks.

[Ollie Hooker]

Come on inside and see what we have in that sack there is gold that I'm taking to the man who staked me to my claim. I reckon he'll be plenty surprised and glad to get it. And in that satchel over there under the bunk, we have more too.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'd say you struck it rich, Ollie.

[Ollie Hooker]

Yeah, plenty more back in the mine waiting to be brought out.

[Gary Odin]

I'm sure lucky I met Ollie.

[Ollie Hooker]

Oh, you've been the best friend I ever had, son. You work mighty hard. You deserve to share in the mine.

[The Lone Ranger]

Better be careful keeping gold in your cabin. The news of your good fortune will soon get around.

[Ollie Hooker]

Well, let's see. For the time being we're getting set to ride to town to pay off Sam Drake.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've heard of Drake, the land agent. So he's the one who staked you, huh?

[Ollie Hooker]

Yeah, mighty nice of him too. Well, I reckon I'll have to wear my hat. Never do, except going to town.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tottle and I will be on our way now. We'll stop by to see you again before we leave the territory. Adios. Come on, tato.

[Gary Odin]

So long, Mr.

[Sam Drake]

Gary.

[Ollie Hooker]

Those are two mighty fine men and good to have as friends.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, yeah, I like them both. Ollie, let's get started for town now, shall?

[Narrator]

It was early afternoon when Ollie and Gary drew rein in front of the land agent's office.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, ho there.

[Ollie Hooker]

I can't wait to see Drake's face.

[Sam Drake]

When we give him all this gold.

[Ollie Hooker]

I reckon he never expected to see the day I'd repay the money and get back my note. Come on.

[Gary Odin]

He'll be getting back what he lent you with interest, Ollie. He ought to be plenty satisfied.

[Sam Drake]

Well, what brings you here, Ollie? I haven't seen you since I staked you to that claim of yours.

[Ollie Hooker]

Well, by Jiminy, you'd be glad to see me now, Mr. Drake. Oh, this is Gary Odin, a friend of mine.

[Sam Drake]

Glad to meet you.

[Gary Odin]

Thanks. Same here, Mr. Drake.

[Sam Drake]

What's in the sack, Ollie?

[Ollie Hooker]

Here in this sack is more than enough gold to pay back what you lent me. Twice as much, I'd say.

[Sam Drake]

Gold, you say?

[Ollie Hooker]

Sure thing. Take a look at it.

[Sam Drake]

I sure will. By thunder, it is gold. You mean to tell me you made a strike out there along the canyon?

[Ollie Hooker]

Yeah, Gary and I'll soon be rich. Fact is, we have more than this right now out at our place. And now I reckon I can take back that note. I signed for the cash you lent me.

[Sam Drake]

You're making a slight mistake, Ollie.

[Ollie Hooker]

Mistake? What do you mean by that?

[Sam Drake]

You didn't sign a note.

[Ollie Hooker]

Course I did. The day I got the cash from you, I remember distinctly that you asked me to sign a note for it, so I did.

[Sam Drake]

Oh, you signed something all right, but it wasn't a note.

[Ollie Hooker]

Wasn't a note? Then what was it?

[Gary Odin]

Well, Ollie told me he signed a note for the cash he got from you. Mr. Drake.

[Ollie Hooker]

Yes?

[Gary Odin]

I reckon I don't stab you anymore than he does. What you're talking about?

[Sam Drake]

Ollie signed a paper saying that if he made a strike, half the mine belongs to me.

[Ollie Hooker]

What? That isn't so at all by Jimmy.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, it must be some mistake. Ollie took me as his partner with the understanding I own half the mine.

[Sam Drake]

That's between you and Ollie, my friend. Maybe next time, Ollie, you'll read what you sign. Anyway. I have that paper with your signature on it. That means I own half the mine.

[Ollie Hooker]

But Dagnummit, how can you own half when I gave half to Gary? That doesn't make sense.

[Sam Drake]

Listen, if you want to give away half of what you own half of your share, go ahead.

[Gary Odin]

Now wait a minute. There must be something local about all this.

[Sam Drake]

Not at all. I own half the mine. Ollie splits his half with you. That's the way it stands.

[Ollie Hooker]

I'm not letting you get away with that, Drake. That gold there pays you back with interest and more. That talk about me signing over half to you was downright out and out lying.

[Sam Drake]

I'm not gonna argue with you, Ollie. I have the agreement signed by you and it's legal.

[Gary Odin]

How come you ever signed such a paper, Ollie?

[Ollie Hooker]

Oh, well, I. I thought it was a note, Gary. Honest, I. Well, I never was much on reading, but I don't like to let on about.

[Gary Odin]

Then you were tricked into signing. I reckon you ought to have sense enough if you can't read to have someone else look over anything you sign.

[Ollie Hooker]

Now, now, Gary, don't get sore. Reckon I trusted Drake too far, that's all. What's done is done.

[Sam Drake]

I was the trustin one. Nicer to lose. If you didn't find gold, half that.

[Gary Odin]

Mine belongs to me. Ollie agreed to that. And I worked mighty hard out there. Ollie. It's up to you to see I get my full share.

[Ollie Hooker]

Let's not go into any argument here, Gary. We'll go back to the cabin and talk it over.

[Sam Drake]

Ollie, I'll bring the sheriff out there early in the morning with that paper you signed and have him convince you it's legal.

[Gary Odin]

I'm getting out of here. I never could stand polecats.

[Ollie Hooker]

You?

[Sam Drake]

So long. Glad you both came in.

[Ollie Hooker]

No way, Gary. Don't be sore at me. We'll go talk things over.

[Narrator]

Ollie and Garry rode back to the cabin on the rim of the canyon. At first, Gary was angry at the old man because of what had happened. But then, realizing that Ollie had really been tricked, he soon got over his anger.

[Gary Odin]

Ollie, I reckon I lost my head for a while, but I realize it wasn't your fault. We'll take the gold in that satchel and get a lawyer. Maybe he could do something for us.

[Ollie Hooker]

Say, maybe that's a good idea.

[Gary Odin]

Yep. Well, no use gabbing about it anymore. Let's get supper and turn in early. Drake will be out here at the break of day. I reckon with the sheriff to make sure we savvy that agreement's legal.

[Narrator]

It was just before dawn the following morning when someone knocked at the cabin door. Ollie, who was a light sleeper, arose and went to answer the knock.

[Gary Odin]

Ollie, what is it?

[Sam Drake]

Somebody at the door.

[Ollie Hooker]

Well, mister, what do you want?

[Gary Odin]

Step outside a minute, Ollie.

[Ollie Hooker]

Huh?

[Gary Odin]

Must be someone Ollie knows.

[Ollie Hooker]

Hey, hold Ollie. You can't do this to me.

[Gary Odin]

Ollie's in trouble now. Take my gun. Ollie. Ollie, where are you?

[Sam Drake]

Can.

[Narrator]

Later that morning, Toto, who had gone to the store in town, returned to the Lone Rangers camp with startling news.

[Ollie Hooker]

Oh, Scott.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, feller.

[Sam Drake]

Easy, Scott. Easy, feller.

[The Lone Ranger]

You were riding fast. Otto.

[Sam Drake]

Ah, me here, young fella. Gary Odin put in jail this morning. Them say he murder old feller.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gary murdered old Ollie. I can't believe it. They seem to be close friends.

[Sam Drake]

Not right.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did you get any details?

[Gary Odin]

No.

[Sam Drake]

Become quick tell you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll remove my mask and disguise my features. Tonto. Then we'll go to town and try to get in to talk to Gary Odin.

[Narrator]

A short time later, the Lone Ranger stood with Toto in the sheriff's office.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, we'd like to see Gary Odin. We're friends.

[Sam Drake]

If you come to bail him out. It's no use. He's in for murder.

[The Lone Ranger]

May we talk to him a few minutes?

[Sam Drake]

Well, it's not usual to let visitors in. When a prisoner is charged with murder.

[The Lone Ranger]

He has the right to have someone try to help him.

[Sam Drake]

You a lawyer?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, but what harm could it do for us to see him?

[Sam Drake]

Well, all right. You and the Indian leave your guns on my desk and I'll give you five minutes with the prisoner.

[Narrator]

A few moments later, the Lone Ranger and Tottle were talking To Garry. Through the bars of his cell, Garry told what had happened that morning.

[Gary Odin]

Then he said, when I finally came to after someone knocked me on the head, the sun was up. I was lying near the rim of the canyon.

[Ollie Hooker]

Go on.

[Gary Odin]

Well, I struggled to sit up. Then I realized someone was standing beside me.

[Sam Drake]

Reckon you're right, Mr. Drake. This fella had this gun in his hand. One of the bullets had been fired. Yeah, and that's the hat Ollie had on when he came to see me in town. Yeah, that hat was snagged in the brush right on the edge of the canyon. You can see where the body was dragged a few feet from the edge.

[Gary Odin]

What happened? Where's Ollie?

[Sam Drake]

Reckon you can tell us that. All right. The way it looks to me, you shot your partner and then tossed him over into the rapids below.

[Gary Odin]

No, that's a lie. I heard a shot before I got outside. Then I was knocked out. That's all I know, Sheriff.

[Sam Drake]

I figure he got knocked out because he slipped and fell back after he shoved the old man over the edge. He must have struck that rock there near his head.

[Gary Odin]

Uh huh.

[Sam Drake]

Son, you might as well admit you shot old Ollie.

[Gary Odin]

But I tell you I didn't. I was inside the cabin.

[Sam Drake]

Nobody's listening to any more, Sheriff. He was mighty sore at the old man when they left my office yesterday. He had his gun in his hand when we rode here and found him. And Ollie's hat was there where you picked it from the brush on the edge of the cliff. All right, young fella, get to your feet. I'm taking you in for the murder of Ollie Hooker.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did they say anything about finding Ollie's body, Gary?

[Gary Odin]

No. I swear I didn't kill him. But they'll never believe me.

[Ollie Hooker]

And.

[Gary Odin]

And I'll be sentenced to hang for murder.

[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.

[Sam Drake]

What's that sound? That's the sound of Downy Unstoppable scent beads going into your washing machine and.

[Narrator]

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.

[Ollie Hooker]

Nice.

[Narrator]

With Downy Unstoppable, you just toss wash wow.

[Sam Drake]

For all day freshness Gain Super Flings are here to take your laundry to the next level.

[Ollie Hooker]

Talking about Gain Super Flings Super Sized laundry packs.

[Sam Drake]

These things are Huge Super Fresh Super Clean Gain Super Flings Gain Super Flings Laundry packs have four times the Oxy cleaning power and three times the Febreze Freshness versus Gain Original liquids Super Fresh Super Clean Gain Super Flings Gain Super Flings for next level laundry.

[Ollie Hooker]

I'm always in the dark.

[Judge]

The sweat and dead short smells like.

[Ollie Hooker]

A dark I'm downy r tonight.

[Indeed Advertiser]

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[Ollie Hooker]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. When the Lone Ranger and Tottle visited Garry in his cell, the young man told them all that had happened. The Lone Ranger thought a moment, then remarked.

[The Lone Ranger]

You say they found Lolly's hat snagged on the brush at the edge of the canyon?

[Gary Odin]

That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

I remember Ollie saying he never wore his hat except when he went to town.

[Sam Drake]

Me remember that.

[The Lone Ranger]

And he certainly wouldn't put his hat on to answer the door during the night.

[Sam Drake]

Maybe old man not thrown into rapids.

[The Lone Ranger]

He'll try to prove that later. It seems to me someone shot him then perhaps shoved him over the cliff. The gun must have been planted in Garry's hand after he was moved from the front of the cabin. And the hat was put where it was found so that the sheriff would use it as further evidence against Gary.

[Gary Odin]

Sam Drake told us he was bringing the sheriff out that morning. Someone else must have known that and came there earlier.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's possible.

[Gary Odin]

I'm sure thankful that you and Tono believe me, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

Having us believe you doesn't help much, Gary. But I promise you we'll do all we can to help you get out of this mess. Well, we must leave now, Toto. Adios, Gary.

[Gary Odin]

Adios.

[Narrator]

After leaving Gary and getting their guns, the Lone Ranger and Toto rode from town and went to look over the scene of the crime. The Lone Ranger knew Garry would quickly be brought to trial. He also realized that speedy and sometimes faulty justice in the Old west resulted at times in the hanging of innocent persons. The two men looked over the ground then they had entered the cabin near the canyon. They opened the door to leave when.

[Sam Drake]

That not good. Someone see us come into cabin.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll try to draw his fire again with my hat.

[Ollie Hooker]

There.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll poke the hatter on the doorway. A shot came from over near the mine entrance.

[Sam Drake]

Good Silver and scout outside the cabin out away.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, we'll go out the wind at the back and try to sneak up on whoever's firing at us. Take the satchel of Gold Tunnel and climb out. I'll come out.

[Sam Drake]

They look Round and the cabin.

[The Lone Ranger]

See anyone?

[Sam Drake]

Look over there? Two men right away past.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, they're running away. Let's mount and follow them.

[Narrator]

The two riders, not realizing that they had been followed by the Lone Ranger and Tonto, entered Sam Drake's office in town.

[Sam Drake]

Well, Russ, how did you and Trigger make out?

[Gary Odin]

Someone was inside the cabin snooping when we got there.

[Sam Drake]

Loco fools. Why didn't you get rid of him and find the gold Ollie said was there?

[Gary Odin]

We didn't want to run into trouble out there.

[Sam Drake]

Sam. That might have been the sheriff.

[Gary Odin]

Sam, we fired a couple of shots.

[Sam Drake]

Then rode away fast and came here. You think you were seen?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, but we work for you.

[Gary Odin]

You own half the mine.

[Sam Drake]

Makes no difference. I have to go easy till young Odin is declared guilty at the trial tomorrow. I'm certain he had no written agreement with Ollie. Oh, what's the difference if you have to wait? The trial isn't going to take more than two or three hours. Then you'll own the place and the gold will be yours.

[Narrator]

That night, Sam Drake and his two henchmen went to the cafe for a while. Later, they returned to Drake's.

[Gary Odin]

Hey, Sam, somebody went out the back window.

[Sam Drake]

Unbolt the back door, quick.

[Gary Odin]

Hey, there goes somebody. It's too dark to make him out.

[Sam Drake]

I'll chance a couple of shots.

[Gary Odin]

You missed him. He's gone.

[Sam Drake]

Let's see if everything's here. That's all right. Nothing seems to be disturbed. Reckon we came in just in time.

[Gary Odin]

Safe is still locked, so everything's all right.

[Sam Drake]

We'll stay around a while to make sure he doesn't come back. And if he does, we'll give him plenty of lead.

[Narrator]

At dawn, the Lone Ranger and Tonto went into the canyon and searched along the river for some time. Finally, they found what they were looking for and returned to their camp. There, the Lone Ranger spent considerable time on a new disguise until his entire appearance had been drastically changed. At noon, the trial began in the general store with a curious and hostile crowd in attendance.

[Sam Drake]

All right, quiet.

[Judge]

Quiet, everybody. Now, as I understand it, this young prisoner is charged with the murder of old Ollie Hooker. That right?

[Sam Drake]

That's right, Judge.

[Judge]

Well, let's get this case moving without any interruptions. First, we'll have the sheriff sworn in to tell what he knows. Then we'll hear what Sam Drake has to say. Come on up here, sheriff. Put your hand on the good.

[Narrator]

The sheriff and Sam Drake each gave testimony in the case carefully dwelling on each point of evidence against Gary Odin. Gary felt the hostility about him. He Knew he had little chance of defending himself against the circumstantial evidence being given by the sheriff and Drake. When the testimony was finished, the judge looked at Gary and asked, well, young.

[Judge]

Fellow, what have you got to say about it?

[Gary Odin]

I didn't kill Ollie, Judge. I swear I didn't.

[Judge]

From the evidence, you were the only one there with the victim. You argued with him before you left town, didn't you?

[Gary Odin]

Well, yes, but I did.

[Judge]

Sheriff himself, accompanied by Sam Drake, rode out there and found you lying near the edge of the cliff with your gun in your hand. One bullet was missing. The victim's hat was nearby. Drag marks showed where someone had been taking the edge and shoved over.

[Gary Odin]

Ollie was shot right in front of the cabin, Judge.

[Judge]

You mean that's where you shot him?

[Gary Odin]

I didn't shoot him.

[Judge]

Well, if you didn't, who did?

[Gary Odin]

I don't know. I tell you, I don't know. I didn't do it.

[Sam Drake]

We all know Ollie Hooker is. And Odin is the one who killed him. By jiminy. What makes you so sure I'm dead, Sam Grady. Who said that?

[Judge]

Who's that old fellow, Sheriff?

[Sam Drake]

My thunder, Judge. That's Ollie Hooker and all.

[Judge]

You going loco, Sheriff. Ollie Hooker's supposed to be murdered. That's why this prisoner's here.

[Sam Drake]

Maybe I'm a ghost come back to do some hunting, Judge.

[Judge]

You look like you're plenty alive to me. Since you are alive, we haven't any case here.

[Sam Drake]

The polecats who tried to kill me are here in this room now, Judge. What did he say? Those two men standing over there better not let those hombres leave.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff.

[Judge]

You and your men, bring them both up here.

[Sam Drake]

Yes, sir.

[Gary Odin]

Come on a minute there.

[Sam Drake]

Judge wants you to talk. Now let go. You haven't anything on me.

[Gary Odin]

The old man is alive. That's enough, Judge.

[Sam Drake]

Maybe Sam Drake better come up too. Judge, I know nothing about the attempt on Ollie's life. Fact is, I'm part owner of the mine, so there's no reason.

[Gary Odin]

Judge, he tricked Ollie into signing an agreement giving him half the mine. Ollie promised me half, but never put it in writing.

[Sam Drake]

Yep. I reckon Sam Drake figured on getting me out of the way before Gary could get a signed paper saying he owned part of the mine.

[Judge]

Eh, what difference would that make? You were dead. Your share would go to your nearest to kin. Ollie.

[The Lone Ranger]

Nope.

[Sam Drake]

I read that agreement. Judge says if anything happens to me, the entire mine goes to Drake. That's motive enough for him to try to have me killed before I sign away any of my shares.

[Gary Odin]

Hold on.

[Sam Drake]

How do you know about that clause? You can't.

[Judge]

Hey, there must have been some trickery if Ollie signed the agreement without knowing what was in it. Where's that paper now?

[Sam Drake]

I have it here in my pocket.

[Judge]

Let me see it. Give it here. It does give you the mind. The case of Ollie's death.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure.

[Sam Drake]

That's why I say Sam Drake tried to have me killed. You two hombres are the ones he sent to kill me, aren't you?

[Gary Odin]

Oh, we. We don't know anything.

[Sam Drake]

He has no proof against those men or me. Judge. It's more that voice. It's different somehow. I'm beginning to think they.

[Ollie Hooker]

Yep.

[Sam Drake]

Being in the rapids for an hour doesn't do a man's throat any good, Drake. That's where I was thrown, you know, after I was wounded. Makes it hard to breathe and talk.

[Judge]

Then you were shot and tossed over the cliff, Ollie.

[Sam Drake]

Yep, I sure was, Judge. And you might ask Sam Drake about taking a satchel of gold from our cabin. That's a lie. I don't know anything about his satchel of gold. Since you have no case, Judge.

[Ollie Hooker]

Excuse me.

[Sam Drake]

Excuse me, Judge. Could you have the sheriff go to Drake's office and look around, maybe in the closet or somewhere for that gold? Let him go. I have nothing to hide.

[Judge]

Go on, Sheriff. This is getting interesting.

[Sam Drake]

I'll be back shortly.

[Narrator]

Excitement ran high among the spectators while they waited for the sheriff to return. Finally, he entered and made his way to the front.

[Sam Drake]

Judge, Ollie was right. I found this satchel of gold in Drake's office.

[Gary Odin]

Slide.

[Judge]

What have you got to say to that, Drake?

[Sam Drake]

I don't know anything about it. It's a frame. Wait a minute. Maybe one of you.

[Gary Odin]

Hey, don't try to shove it off on us, Sam. That's right.

[Sam Drake]

We didn't get the satchel when you sent us out there to find it yesterday. Hey, I mean, by Jiminy, I was sure Drake sent you to steal our gold. Trigger is lying.

[Gary Odin]

Don't say I'm lying. You sent us out to get rid.

[Sam Drake]

Of old Ollie and the frame. Young Odin.

[Gary Odin]

Didn't he rush? That's right. Then he took the sheriff out later so he'd be a wit.

[Sam Drake]

These dirty coyotes are lying. Anyhow, Ollie Hooker's alive now, so there's no need.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ollie Hooker is dead. My friend and I found his body this morning far down the canyon. You'll find the corpse at the coronation.

[Sam Drake]

By thunder, you're not Ollie Hooker. I thought there was something strange about you.

[The Lone Ranger]

I disguise myself as near as possible to look like Ollie. Though my voice almost gave me away. The plan worked, Drake. You stand accused of Ollie Hooker's murder. You and your two gunmen.

[Ollie Hooker]

You.

[Sam Drake]

You must have put that satchel in the closet in my office last night.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's right, Drake. I hope that when it was found there, it would throw you and your gunman off guard so you'd start talking.

[Judge]

Your plan sure work, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I'm glad to say it did, Judge. I carefully searched Drake's desk and found the agreement. I read it and then put it back. That agreement indicated the motive Drake had for getting rid of Ollie.

[Judge]

He and those other tools stand trial for Ollie's murder.

[Sam Drake]

I'm leaving. The first one who tries to stop me gets blocked.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hold it, Drake.

[Sam Drake]

Oh, my gun arms.

[Gary Odin]

Get out of here.

[Sam Drake]

All right, come on. No, you don't. We got Rustin triggered. Don't let him get away.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Gary. I don't know. I'll see you again. You'll be all right now. I'm going to join Toto outside. Adios.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, thanks for everything. Goodbye.

[Judge]

By Jupiter, this is the most cantankerous case I ever sat in on. Never did see the like. All right, get out of here, young fellow. You're free.

[Gary Odin]

Thanks, Judge.

[Judge]

Now, hold on a minute.

[Gary Odin]

Yes, sir?

[Judge]

About that agreement Ollie signed. According to the facts as I see him, that signature is obtained by fraud and trickery.

[Gary Odin]

I was sure of that, Judge.

[Judge]

Far as I know, old Ollie has no living kin.

[Gary Odin]

He told me that that fella who.

[Judge]

Turned the tables on Drake just now slipped me a note before he went out. Listen. Says my friend checked at the assayer's office and found that Ollie Hooker recently changed the registration of his mining claim to show joint ownership with Gary Oden.

[Gary Odin]

What does that mean, Josh?

[Judge]

Well, it means that though Ollie didn't give you a written agreement as a partner, he did fix it for you on his claims registration.

[Gary Odin]

Well, what do you know?

[Judge]

I'll attend to the necessary legal procedure to see to it the mine's turned over to you, son.

[Gary Odin]

Josh. Thanks a lot, Judge.

[Judge]

Now I want you to do something for me. Of course.

[Gary Odin]

What is it?

[Judge]

Tell me who that hombre is who posed his Ollie and got the goods on those ornery pole kits.

[Gary Odin]

Oh, he's a mighty fine hombre who helps folks that are in trouble, Judge. He's the Lone Rang.

[Ollie Hooker]

Sa.

[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 Beame.

[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.

[Ollie Hooker]

Sam.