Old Time Radio Westerns: "Paroled Man" – The Lone Ranger (02-15-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: September 17, 2025
Episode: Digitally restored classic Lone Ranger drama
Main Theme: A tale of desperation, blackmail, and redemption as Glen Dawson, corrupted by gambling and debt, is coerced into participating in a bank robbery—only for the Lone Ranger and Tonto to intervene and uphold justice.

Episode Overview

This episode of The Lone Ranger delves into the struggles of Glen Dawson, a young man ensnared by gambling debts, and his confrontations with villainous forces trying to manipulate him into criminality. As pressure mounts and threats are leveled against his family, the narrative traces the complex decisions Glen faces, the courage of his sister Christine, and the intervention of the Lone Ranger and Tonto as champions for law and justice in the Old West.

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Family Tension and the Seeds of Trouble

[04:45–06:20]

• Glen Dawson is confronted at home by his sister, Christine, who pleads with him to stop gambling and wasting their late father's money.
  • Christine Dawson: “You promised. You said you wouldn't go to town again. You swore you wouldn't gamble.” [04:55]
  • Glen Dawson: “Whatever money I lost has been my own.” [05:08]
• Christine reminds Glen of his responsibilities and the trust placed in him by both her and Mr. Tindall at the bank.

2. Blackmail and Coercion by Criminal Elements

[06:20–10:09]

• At Judd Weller’s gambling den, Glen is summoned and confronted about the $10,000 debt.
• Weller reveals Glen has been stealing from the bank, not just losing his own money.
  • Judd Weller: “That was Bruce Tindall's money, wasn't it, Glen? The bank's money.” [07:56]
• Glen is forced into a deal: help Weller and Ray Tomi rob a Wells Fargo payroll delivery to cover his thefts, or face exposure and jail, with implied threats against his sister’s safety.
  • Ray Tomi (to Glen): “If you don't help us, something may happen to your sister. Like death, maybe.” [09:24–09:29]

3. Christine’s Fears and Appeal for Help

[11:55–16:21]

• Christine overhears Glen being threatened and is terrified for him.
• She seeks advice from Tom Carmody, a former lawman now crippled but wise and compassionate.
  • Christine Dawson: “Something's wrong with Glen. Something terribly wrong.” [15:14]
  • Tom Carmody: “If Glenn's in trouble, he'll not want to talk to an old has been like me. ... He needs a man of action.” [15:41]
• Carmody promises to enlist the help of his masked friend—the Lone Ranger.

4. The Lone Ranger’s Investigation and Action

[18:43–24:14]

• Upon hearing Christine’s story, Tom Carmody relays it to the Lone Ranger and Tonto, who set out for the Dawson ranch.
  • Lone Ranger: “We’ll see if someone’s spying on Glen Dawson. If there is, we’ll learn the reason for it.” [19:02]
• Christine is taken hostage by Bronco (an accomplice), while Glen is forced to participate in the holdup.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive just in time, subduing Bronco and rescuing Christine.
  • Lone Ranger: “You're a good decoy, Tonto. Remove the ropes and gags from the girl. Then treat this crook's wound, will you?” [24:09]

5. The Bank Robbery and Intervention

[25:20–27:32]

• Glen, racked by guilt, goes to the bank, where Weller and Tomi—disguised and armed—burst in to commit the heist.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto, prepared, intervene. In a tense shootout, Weller is wounded, Tomi takes a hostage, and Glen is also hurt but ultimately saved.
  • Ray Tomi (threatening): “Fire and you'll kill this lady, not me. Back up, lady. We're going out together.” [27:04]
  • Lone Ranger (grappling Tomi): “I'll do it if you don't drop the gun. There, that's better. Now to make sure you don't attempt anything more.” [27:27]

6. Resolution and Redemption

[27:36–30:03]

• The criminals are unmasked—Weller and Tomi exposed.
• Glen Dawson confesses to his crimes and prepares to accept his fate.
  • Glen Dawson: “I deserve it. Well, I'm willing to pay for what I've done. … When I'm free, I'll repay every cent I took from you.” [29:08]
• Mr. Tindall, recognizing Glen’s bravery and remorse, pledges to help him repay the money.
• Christine and the others reflect on the Lone Ranger’s intervention; his identity is confirmed through subtle clues.
  • Tom Carmody: “He is the Lone Ranger.” [30:03]

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Glen’s Moment of Despair:
  • “I’d rather go to jail.” – Glen Dawson, refusing to betray the bank before threats escalate [09:09]
• Threat of Violence:
  • “If you don’t help us, something may happen to your sister. Like death, maybe.” – Ray Tomi [09:24–09:29]
• Christine’s Quiet Strength:
  • “Oh, Glen. Glen, what is it you’ve done now, what is it you’ve done?” – Christine Dawson, wracked by worry yet determined to help her brother [12:31]
• Lone Ranger’s Command:
  • “You’re a good decoy, Tonto. Remove the ropes and gags from the girl. Then treat this crook’s wound, will you?” – Lone Ranger, ever cool under pressure [24:09]
• Acknowledgement of the Masked Hero:
  • “What a truly remarkable person that masked man must be. Has anyone any idea who he is?” – Mr. Tindall [29:36]

Important Segment Timestamps

• Christine confronts Glen: [04:45–06:20]
• Glen coerced at Weller’s office: [06:20–10:09]
• Christine seeks Tom Carmody's help: [11:55–16:21]
• Lone Ranger & Tonto investigate: [18:43–24:14]
• Rescue at the ranch: [23:49–24:15]
• Bank hold-up and shootout: [25:20–27:32]
• Villains exposed and Glen’s confession: [27:36–30:03]
• Revelation of the Lone Ranger's identity: [30:03]

Tone and Style

The episode maintains a classic dramatic tone consistent with golden age radio productions—dialogue is earnest, stakes are clear, and emotions run high, particularly in family confrontations and moments of peril. The Lone Ranger’s dignified, calm authority stands out as a beacon of hope and justice, while the villains are menacing and unrepentant.

Summary

Paroled Man weaves a rich tale of personal failing, blackmail, and the potential for redemption—even in the harsh realities of the Old West. Glen Dawson’s path from reckless gambler to reluctant accomplice, and finally a man willing to face justice, is framed by the steadfast love of his sister and the intervention of the iconic Lone Ranger. With vivid drama, suspenseful action, and stirring performances—in enhanced, high-fidelity audio—this classic episode reaffirms the enduring appeal of Western storytelling.

For more restored Western adventures, visit otrwesterns.com.