Pledge to a Dead Man | The Lone Ranger (09-06-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Episode Title: Pledge to a Dead Man | The Lone Ranger (09-06-50) Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: March 14, 2025

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Introduction

In this enthralling episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, titled "Pledge to a Dead Man," the iconic hero The Lone Ranger—alongside his trusted companion, Tonto—involves himself in a gripping tale of justice, redemption, and betrayal in the rugged landscapes of the American West. Hosted by Andrew Rines, the episode seamlessly blends classic Western storytelling with enhanced audio quality, bringing the legendary radio drama to life with renewed clarity and depth.

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Plot Summary

Setting the Scene
The story unfolds in the troubled town of Shady Bend, where tensions simmer beneath the surface. Enter Bob Hawkins, a young boy grappling with the shadow of his father’s tarnished legacy, framed by smugglers and outlaws. Dan Reed, The Lone Ranger's nephew, is introduced as a skilled fighter trained by the Lone Ranger himself (02:11 - 07:05).

The Conflict Emerging
Bob Hawkins and Dan Reed find themselves in a confrontation with a group of unruly boys, showcasing their fighting prowess (04:44 - 07:05). This altercation leads to a deeper revelation about Bob's father, a man wrongfully accused and framed by the local smuggling gang led by Tom Martin (05:17 - 07:38). Bob’s determination to clear his father's name and support his struggling family sets the stage for the ensuing drama.

A Mysterious Visitor
One night, a masked man visits Bob, revealing himself as The Lone Ranger (08:00 - 09:13). The Lone Ranger seeks Bob’s assistance in gathering evidence against the elusive smugglers who have long evaded the law. Bob, initially reluctant, is persuaded to stay in town and assist in the plan (09:18 - 09:33).

The Smugglers’ Machinations
As Bob Hawkins departs Shady Bend, Bart Jenkins confronts Tom Martin and the other smugglers, accusing them of deceit and mismanagement of their illicit operations (10:06 - 12:03). The tension escalates as the smugglers plan to intercept Bob and The Lone Ranger, leading to a showdown on the trail to Pleasantville (12:03 - 16:10).

Confrontation and Deception
The episode reaches a critical point when the smugglers, unaware of the government's involvement, attempt to negotiate with The Lone Ranger and Bob. However, betrayal lurks as one of the smugglers, Bart Jenkins, is revealed to be an undercover government agent working with The Lone Ranger to bring down the gang (16:43 - 23:43).

Climactic Showdown
A fierce confrontation ensues at the shack where the smugglers have been hiding their contraband. Betrayals come to light, and The Lone Ranger deftly disarms and apprehends Tom Martin, ensuring that justice is served for Bob Hawkins' father and the community of Shady Bend (23:43 - 25:58).

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Key Moments and Notable Quotes

1. The Lone Ranger’s Plea to Bob:

   [09:12] The Lone Ranger: "You might be able to help me get that proof."

2. Bob’s Reluctance:

   [08:45] The Lone Ranger: "Bob, I want you to help me."

   [08:47] Bob Hawkins: "No one can help me. I don't want any."

3. Smart Strategy Discussion:

   [09:33] The Lone Ranger: "Stay in town for several days. While you talk about leaving to get a lot of money, I'll tell you what to say."

4. Smugglers Plotting:

   [10:19] Tom Martin: "We didn't need him at all. It was Tom's idea to have him act as front man and handle the cash."

   [11:02] Tom Martin: "Get the horses, boys. The four of us will be able to handle the boy and his pals."

5. Government Agent Revelation:

   [19:23] Narrator: "The store was lighted by only a small window... he was actually a special agent for the government."

6. Showdown Dialogue:

   [24:22] The Lone Ranger: "No, you don't."

   [24:25] The Lone Ranger: "All right. All right. My hands are up."

7. Resolution and Justice:

   [24:41] The Lone Ranger: "We can take care of these crooks now. And from the looks of things, I'd say there's evidence enough to hang them all."

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Character Dynamics

• The Lone Ranger: Embodies justice and strategic prowess, guiding Bob Hawkins through the intricate web of deceit spun by the smugglers.
• Bob Hawkins: Represents innocence and the quest for redemption, driven by his desire to clear his father’s name and support his family.
• Tom Martin: The primary antagonist, leading the smuggling operations with cunning and ruthlessness.
• Bart Jenkins: An undercover government agent whose allegiance plays a pivotal role in unraveling the smugglers’ plans.
• Dan Reed: The Lone Ranger’s nephew, showcasing bravery and loyalty in assisting The Lone Ranger's mission.
• Tonto: The Lone Ranger’s faithful companion, providing support and wisdom throughout their endeavors.

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Conclusion

Pledge to a Dead Man delivers a compelling narrative that highlights themes of justice, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The Lone Ranger's strategic mind and unwavering moral compass ultimately triumph over the deceitful tactics of the smugglers, ensuring that Bob Hawkins and his family find peace and vindication. This episode not only pays homage to the classic Western radio dramas but also revitalizes them with modern digital restoration, making the timeless tales of the Wild West accessible and engaging for today’s audience.

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Final Thoughts

Andrew Rines masterfully curates this episode, preserving the essence of the original The Lone Ranger while enhancing the auditory experience. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Old Time Radio Westerns, "Pledge to a Dead Man" offers a captivating journey into the heart of frontier justice and the enduring legacy of The Lone Ranger.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• [09:12] The Lone Ranger: "You might be able to help me get that proof."
• [24:22] The Lone Ranger: "No, you don't."
• [24:38] The Lone Ranger: "We can take care of these crooks now."
• [24:52] The Lone Ranger: "I'll see that he's made the hero of this gadget."

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Enjoyed this summary?
Stay tuned for more classic Western adventures digitally restored for your listening pleasure on Old Time Radio Westerns.

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This summary is crafted based on the transcript provided and is intended to offer a comprehensive overview of the episode for those who have yet to listen.

Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse for the speed of light. A cloud of dust and a hearty hio silver. The Lone Ranger General Mills, makers of Cheerios, the Ready to eat oat cereal that gives you go power. And Wheaties, the breakfast of champions. Present by special recording. The Lone Ranger G man. Jimmy is 8 years old.

[Character 1]

He is strong and he is bold.

[Narrator]

He can capture outlaws.

[Character 1]

Cause he knows he's got Go power from Cheerios.

[Narrator]

Yes, he's got Go power.

[Character 1]

There he goes. He's feeling his Cheerios. Cheerios. Cheerios.

[Narrator]

That's Cheerios all right. The nourishing oat cereal that shaped like little letter O's. The Ready to eat cereal with a wonderful toasted oat flavor. What's more, every delicious spoonful of Cheerios and milk is real muscle building food. That's right. Each spoonful contains vitamins, minerals and proteins your body needs. And these good things in a Cheerios breakfast do good things for your body. Help you have healthy nerves, good red blood, strong bones and muscles. Yes, Cheerios is made to give you real goal power. So try Cheerios, the famous Oat cereal that needs no cooking. And soon you'll hear people say he's feeling his Cheerios.

[Advertiser 1]

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[Andrew Rines]

No, conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Advertiser 1]

I just meant that I feel really good about my coverage.

[Andrew Rines]

I mean, even if you took the clam out for the best day ever, visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride, knowing you're insured by specialists and sharing a strawberry ice cream cone together, the clam would not feel happy. And your strawberry cone would taste sort of clammy. Geico's motorcycle specialists who know bikes like you to assume no liability for clammy ice cream cones. Geico expertise for your motorcycle.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tato, the daring and resourceful mask 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. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Character 2]

Come on, Silver. Let's go, big fella.

[Character 1]

Are you Silver?

[Narrator]

A furious battle was in progress in the town of Shady Bend. Bob Hawkins and the Lone Ranger's nephew, Dan Reed, fought side by side against half a dozen other boys. Dan had been taught by the Lone Ranger how to dodge and parry blows and how to hit effectively. He and Bob Hawkins blackened several eyes and bloodied the noses of a couple of boys. And finally, the attackers withdrew.

[Character 1]

Come on, fellas. We'll get Hawkins next time. Yeah, we'll get you Hawkins.

[Narrator]

You're not wandering on Shady.

[Character 1]

We got as much right to live here as you have. And you're not gonna drive us out. You're piling the camera.

[Narrator]

You're piling the killer.

[Character 1]

Why you let him go? We gave him something to think about. Hey, why'd you pitch into the fight and help me out? You needed help. The odds were against you. Say, I'm Bob Hawkins. I guess you heard what some of the fellas said about my dad. I'm Dan Reed. I heard about you, Bob. In fact, I came here to look you up. Your dad was a friend of mine. Was a friend of a friend of mine. Oh, they all say dad Was no good. But that's not true. He was a swell dad. He wanted money so I could go to school. Got mixed up with some smugglers. Golly. But he wasn't bad. And he didn't kill anyone. In spite of what the law said, the rest of the gang framed him. You gotta believe that. I believe it, Bob. You saw how the boys were picking on me, Dan. I don't mind that so much. It's the way that grown ups treat my mother. None of them speak to her anymore. Well, I won't sit still for that. I can hear her crying almost every night when she thinks I'm asleep. I'm gonna do something about it. I'd like to know you're of mine, Bob. Would you come out to our house? I'd like to. Oh, would you? Would you really? Oh, gee, that'd be great.

[Narrator]

Come on, Dan.

[Character 1]

We live right over there. It's not much of a place. We had to move after Paul was buried. We used to have a lot bigger house.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle were waiting in camp when Dan returned and told about the fight and the visit to Bob Hawkins house.

[Character 1]

According to Bob, most of the crooks are still at large. His dad's the only one who was caught.

[Character 2]

Yes, that's right. The smugglers organization is still practically intact.

[Character 1]

Are they still smuggling guns into Mexico?

[Character 2]

Oh, I think they'll lie low for a time and start operations again when they consider it safe. Crooks.

[Character 1]

They should have been hung instead of Bob's father.

[Character 2]

They're not found, Dan. They'll expand their power till they become a real danger to the international relations with Mexico. Furthermore, a government agent has been murdered. Every man who had a hand in that must pay.

[Character 1]

I wish something could be done so Bob wouldn't have to leave town.

[Character 2]

Oh, is he leaving? Uh huh.

[Character 1]

He and his mother can't earn enough to live on. Bob's leaving in the morning. He'll get a job someplace where he's not known and then send for his mother.

[Character 2]

In the morning, huh?

[Character 1]

Yes, sir.

[Character 2]

Why, I want to talk to that boy. I'll see him tonight.

[Narrator]

That night, Bob Hawkins lay awake in his bed long after his mother had sobbed herself to sleep. The moonlight slanting through the open window fell in a square patch on a rolled up blanket that held Bob's few possessions. It rested in a corner, ready to go with the boy at daybreak. Then the shadow of a man's head and shoulders appeared and a voice came from the window.

[Character 1]

Bob. Huh? What?

[Character 2]

Take it easy, Bob. No need to Waken your mother.

[Character 1]

Who are you?

[Narrator]

Bob turned toward the window. As he leaped from bed, there was light enough to reveal the fact that the midnight visitor was masked.

[Character 1]

What does that mask mean? Are you one of the gang?

[Character 2]

Don't let the mask mislead you. Move at the window. Bob, I. I want to talk to you.

[Character 1]

If you're one of the crooks of.

[Character 2]

No, I'm not. I want to get those crooks who ruined your father. And I want to help you.

[Character 1]

No one can help me. I don't want any.

[Character 2]

Bob. Also, I want you to help me.

[Character 1]

I'm not helping anyone. That's a mistake my father made.

[Character 2]

I knew your father. He was a good man until he met Tom Martin.

[Character 1]

The law said he was a smuggler and a killer.

[Character 2]

Bob, I want you to help me make Tom Martin and his pals pay for what they've done.

[Character 1]

Why doesn't the law get them like they got there?

[Character 2]

The law must have proof against those men. You might be able to help me get that proof.

[Character 1]

How?

[Character 2]

You're planning to leave town.

[Character 1]

I figured on leaving at daybreak. My blanket rolls already.

[Character 2]

I. I want you to leave, but not at daybreak. Before you go, I want you to do some talking in town.

[Character 1]

Talking?

[Character 2]

Yes. Stay in town for several days. While you talk about leaving to get a lot of money, I'll tell you what to say.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger spoke in a low voice for over half an hour while Bob listened with mounting interest and enthusiasm. The boy did not leave town at daybreak. He stayed around for several days, during which he dropped remarks in certain places and did some carefully planned bragging. Soon after Bob Hawkins left Shady Bend, a man named Bart Jenkins mounted a horse and rode hard to a cabin in a woods not far away. Tom Martin and several other men were there. They came out to meet Jenkins.

[Character 1]

Something wrong, Tom? I got news. Well, let's have it. Jim Hawkins wife and son have been having hard going since the trial. You knew that. That's not my worry. I gave Jim Hawkins what I promised. He got his share. He didn't do any of the dangerous work like the rest of us.

[Character 2]

We didn't need him at all. It was Tom's idea to have him act as front man and handle the cash.

[Character 1]

And it was a good idea. He's the one who was seen, so he's the one who got his neck stretched. As for handling the cash, none of you trust me. And I felt the same way about you critters. You only thought you could trust Jim Hawkins. What's that, Bar Remember? You thought he should have got more cash than he collected. That's what we thought. Well, it looks like he did. He held out on us. He hid away a lot of the cash. And now his son is going to get it. Bob didn't know I was working with you, Tom. He told me a few things. Bragging? Sort of. He's got a masked man and an injured to help him. And they were trying to happen. He talks to you so free, he's glad to have someone who listened to him. Not many people talk to him. What about the masked man and Indian who are helping him? After what he told me, I kept watch on him. He got enough cash from Summers to buy an old horse. This morning he left town, so I followed for a ways outside of town. He met the Indian and the masked man. The three started along the trail toward Pleasantville.

[Character 2]

Well, why didn't you follow them?

[Character 1]

Those two men wore guns tied low. I didn't want to take chances, so I come here fast. We can cut them off on the trail if we go over the mountain. Maybe we should let the boy have that cash after all. Hawkins took his medicine without telling on the rest of us. Only because I told him his wife and kid would get hurt if he did. If he held out on the cash. I want it.

[Character 2]

Me too.

[Character 1]

Get the horses, boys. The four of us will be able to handle the boy and his pals. We'll bring him back here and ask some questions.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto had left Dan Reed in charge of the camp while they rode slowly toward the town of Pleasantville with Bob Hawkins. Presently they saw four horsemen approaching from a hill on the south.

[Character 2]

There's Tom Martin. He's been suspected of many crimes, but no one ever had proof against him.

[Character 1]

There's Bob Jenkins. He lives in town.

[Character 2]

One of the men you talk to?

[Character 1]

Yeah.

[Character 2]

Bob, I think you're looking at the men who ruined your father.

[Character 1]

If I had a gun, I'd make them pay.

[Character 2]

No. The law must get them. Now remember, Bob. You too, Toto. Do exactly as I said.

[Character 1]

Me?

[Narrator]

Remember, Kimosabe.

[Character 1]

All join guns.

[Character 2]

All right, Bob.

[Character 1]

Hey, buddy. Why you waving a gun at me? Take it easy, Pop, and you won't get hurt. These are my friends and these are my friends. There won't be gunplay if you do as I say.

[Character 2]

What do you want?

[Character 1]

I want to talk to you and the kid, but not here. We're taking you where we can talk without being disturbed by someone coming along the trail.

[Character 2]

Oh, you are Beaver. Yeah.

[Character 1]

You and Bart take their guns. Right. Take off that man's mask.

[Character 2]

We'll see who he is. One minute. Are you planning to make prisoners of us?

[Character 1]

What's it look like?

[Character 2]

Don't try it. We'll go with you to talk. But if you try to disarm us, we'll argue the point.

[Character 1]

Two of you armed against four of us.

[Character 2]

Some of you had got hurt before you got us.

[Character 1]

Maybe he's right, Tom. All right. For the time being, you can keep your mask and gun. As for later on, we'll see.

[Narrator]

We'll continue our Lone Ranger adventure in just a moment.

[Advertiser 1]

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[Andrew Rines]

No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Advertiser 1]

I just meant that I feel really good about my coverage.

[Andrew Rines]

I mean, even if you took the clam out for the best day ever, visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride, knowing you're insured by specialists, and sharing a strawberry ice cream cone together, the clam would not feel happy. And your strawberry cone would taste sort of clammy. Geico's motorcycle specialists, who know bikes like you do, assume no liability for clammy ice cream cones. Geico expertise for your motorcycle.

[Advertiser 1]

Dinner time. It's more than just a meal. It's when work comes to a halt, where macaroni masterpieces are made and little moments turn into lasting memories. With the Blue Cash Preferred card, you can get 6% cash back at US supermarkets. So you can bring home the flavors that bring everyone together. We did say everyone make the special moments even more rewarding. Learn [e-mail] Explore BCP terms and cash Back Cap Apply with Blue Cash Preferred.

[Character 1]

We're all over the country in every direction. How ya, how ya doing? Is the question. And here's what the happy people have to say. We're eating our Wheaties and do doin okay.

[Character 2]

Okay.

[Character 1]

That goes for the star, wherever you are. Take Barbara Ann Scott, figure skating champion from the Northland. Watch her on this one. Barbara Ann's good Now there is a champ who's a real Wheaties fan. Sure helps to keep a gal up on her toes. A guy, too. Take Bob Lemon, who pitches a lot of ball for the Cleveland Indians. Lemon knows what champions know. Wheaties for breakfast. Away you go. Gosh, no wonder the champs of tomorrow are eating Wheaties today. There's a whole kernel of wheat in every Wheaties flake. Keep on eating your Wheaties and you'll.

[Character 2]

Be do, do, do an okay, okay.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. Tom Martin looked at the masked man and saw what he thought was a trace of a wink. He accepted the Lone Ranger's offer to go to the shack without resistance if no effort were made to disarm or unmask him. Bart Jenkins rode ahead to show the way. The Lone Ranger followed, accompanied by Bob Hawkins and Toto in the rear. Tom Martin and the two remaining smugglers held their guns in readiness. One man was left outside the shack as guard so there would be no interruption. The others went inside. Martin eyed the masked man for a moment.

[Character 1]

Now we can talk.

[Character 2]

I think I know what you want to discuss, Martin. Before we get down to business, we'd better send the boy outside.

[Character 1]

Who, me? Now, hold up.

[Character 2]

Quiet, Bob.

[Character 1]

Why can't I hear what you're going to say?

[Character 2]

Because unless you're outside, I won't talk.

[Character 1]

Take him outside and tell Joe to watch him.

[Character 2]

Right, Bones.

[Character 1]

How about the Indian?

[Character 2]

He stays. Get going, Bob.

[Character 1]

Oh, this is a dirty trick, Dog. I want to hear what.

[Character 2]

Hey, Joe. Boss wants to keep an eye on the boy, see?

[Character 1]

Don't get away. I'll watch him.

[Character 2]

Now then, how about getting down to business?

[Character 1]

I'm ready if the mask man is. How about it? I've let you keep your mask and guns, and I've sent the boy out. Now, is there anything else you'd like before you're ready to talk?

[Character 2]

I'm ready now. It is true, isn't it, Bart, that Bob Hawkins told you his father had received some cash from the last shipment of guns across the border?

[Character 1]

Strikes me as odd that the the kid didn't speak of her to do something about it before this.

[Character 2]

He knew very little about it until I talked to him. Even now, he can't locate the cache without my help.

[Character 1]

You tell us where the cache is hidden.

[Character 2]

Oh, no, no, Tom, I won't do that.

[Character 1]

I'll get the boy to talk.

[Character 2]

He can't tell what he doesn't know. Martin, here's the situation. I know that a lot of money paid for smuggled rifles by Mexican renegades. Is hidden. But I don't know where to get that information. I must call on a certain man, and he won't talk unless I take Bob Hawkins with me. You'll have to see the boy to be sure Bob's in on the deal. After I have that information, I'll need help.

[Character 1]

More help than the Indian can give you.

[Character 2]

Yes, I'll need your help. That's why I was willing to come here for a discussion.

[Character 1]

Ah, you want us to go partners with you?

[Character 2]

Oh, you might say so.

[Character 1]

And split the cash seven ways?

[Character 2]

No, the two outside don't have to be cut in.

[Character 1]

You mean Joe and young Pop? You're a cool one, ain't you?

[Character 2]

You know what I mean?

[Character 1]

Yeah. You mean we eliminate the people we don't need when we're through with them. It's a good idea. I'll take that deal. Now, where'll we find the hombre who can tell us where the cash is hidden?

[Character 2]

You'll know when we get there.

[Character 1]

We're heading toward Pleasantville.

[Character 2]

We go beyond Pleasantville. We can reach our destination by sunset.

[Character 1]

And we'll start right now.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger, Bob and Tottle. Went with the four smugglers To a small community called North Platts. It was nearly sunset when they drew rain. In front of the general store, the only building at the crossroads.

[Character 1]

This is the place?

[Character 2]

Yes. I'll go into the store with Bob. Come along, Bob.

[Narrator]

All right.

[Character 1]

You stay here, redskin. Me stay here?

[Narrator]

The store was lighted by only a small window. In the open door, the smugglers outside couldn't see too clearly. They didn't know that the man behind the counter was not the regular storekeeper. That his beard was false. Or that he was actually a special agent for the government. Working by prearrangement with a Lone Ranger.

[Character 2]

Those men outside of the crooks. To get evidence against them, we must find where they have hidden the money, the records and the guns I still hope to sell.

[Character 1]

Just tell me the next move, and I'll play along.

[Character 2]

Those men think the law is after them. They'll hurry across the border. They'll be sure to take their cash with them. And most likely their rifles and their records.

[Character 1]

I see. When they go for those things, they'll reveal their hiding place.

[Character 2]

Yes, that's it.

[Character 1]

Well, how are you going to make them believe the laws? After them.

[Character 2]

I'm going to fire my gun. Make them think I've killed Bob Hawkins. They'll know that in a murder case, they'll share the blame with me. Because we're all together. Bob you snap.

[Character 1]

Sure wish we could hear what's going on inside. Let's go closer.

[Character 2]

Better we stay here.

[Character 1]

Do what masked man say. The Indians right, Tom? I don't like what I see in there. The boy's trying to talk and the masked man's trying to stop him. Hey, he's drawing a gun. He's pointing it at the boy. I don't want gunplay. Not here. Why, you. He started gunplay. Shots will bring men from the houses over yonder.

[Character 2]

Here comes the mask man.

[Character 1]

You pay, you pay.

[Character 2]

Get going before he finds another gun.

[Character 1]

Crazy fool.

[Character 2]

Get going, you hear? The boy started talking. Easy, Savings.

[Character 1]

Why you shoot him? Save the questions. Get out of here. Get up. Get.

[Narrator]

The six men rode hard away from town and maintained the fast pace for several miles. Then Tom Martin signaled a halt.

[Character 1]

Oh, we can stop here for the horses to get their wing. You to tell me why you started gunplay.

[Character 2]

You'd have done the same thing, Martin. That man in the store wasn't the storekeeper.

[Character 1]

Who was he?

[Character 2]

Special agent for the government. Oh, he must have learned that someone would go there. He took the storekeeper's place. When Bob found it out, he told the man who you were.

[Character 1]

Why that? What else did he say?

[Character 2]

He told about your hideout, your shack in the woods.

[Character 1]

Why didn't you shoot sooner?

[Character 2]

I did the best I could.

[Character 1]

You should have killed a government man.

[Character 2]

Oh, no. There's too risky. The law always gets a killer of a government man. I disarmed him with a bullet. That gave us time to get clear.

[Character 1]

All right, get going, boys. Head for the shack. And you, mister. You and your engine, pal. Don't try to come with us. I've had enough of you and your ideas.

[Character 2]

Suits me.

[Character 1]

Come on, boy. Get up.

[Character 2]

Come on.

[Character 1]

Get him up.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle rode at an angle to the route of the four smugglers and were soon out of sight in a small. Tom Martin and his men continued as fast as their horses could travel to the shack where they had lived for the past week.

[Character 1]

We got to work fast. We aim to get across the border with the things we got buried. Bart, you stand watch. Let us know if anyone comes this way. Right. The rest of us will get the stuff together. You think we can take the time? We can't cross the border broke, can we? We work too hard to get our pile of cash together. And we'll need the names of those men we deal with in Mexico. I'll get the record. Get to work, boys.

[Character 2]

And thanks.

[Character 1]

All right, I got the cash and Records. You boys take those rifles. All of them? Certainly. Can't leave them here as evidence. Time and bundles. Each of us carry a bundle. They get too heavy, we'll hide them someplace between here and the border. Hey, someone's coming through the woods. We gotta have a little more time. If it's Loman, we'll have to fight it out. Now we can leave the rifles. I'm giving the orders. White Horse. The match man come in here. He's got plenty of nerve. Now, what's he want now? You'll soon find out. Why'd you come here?

[Character 2]

That's several reasons. Martin, there's one thing I wanted to tell you and your man.

[Character 1]

Well, what is it? Speak fast. We haven't time to listen to talk. You boys get those rifles.

[Character 2]

Oh, there's lots of time. You're not going across the border.

[Character 1]

Who ain't?

[Character 2]

What do you mean? There's a lot you men don't know. I came to tell you that in the first place, Hawkins didn't hold out any cash.

[Character 1]

What? But that kid told me.

[Character 2]

He told you just what I told him to tell you. Bart. He told a number of people the same thing. You see, he would rise to the bait. I suspected you might be the one, but I wasn't sure. You crooks ruin the life of Bob's father. Nearly ruined the life of the boy. But I think things will be all right now.

[Character 1]

I don't like the way you're talking. It's beginning to sound like you tricked us.

[Character 2]

You're getting warmed. Humphrey.

[Character 1]

Under your alarming. I'll kill you for this, Tom.

[Character 2]

I thought you'd say that. I hoped you wouldn't say it before some men got close.

[Character 1]

I'm saying it now. And I'm accident.

[Narrator]

No. The first shot came from behind a nearby tree and blew the gun from Martin's hand. Others followed quickly and several men moved into view behind their blazing guns.

[Character 1]

I'm quitting. I give up. Don't you? We'll shoot to kill unless you throw down your guns.

[Narrator]

Tom Martin with the last of quit. One arm hung limply at his side. But he drew a gun with his uninjured hand. As he brought it to bear, the Lone Ranger leaped forward. No, you don't.

[Character 2]

No.

[Character 1]

Let go.

[Character 2]

My wrist. Drop that gun or I'll break your arm.

[Character 1]

All right. All right. My hands are up. Got you now on his handcuffs. Then you're there in court. This evidence you dare get. Well, it looks like they'll be hanging Mr. Dale.

[Character 2]

You and your men won't need toddle with me any longer.

[Character 1]

We can take care of these crooks now. And from the looks of things, I'd say there's evidence enough to hang them all.

[Character 2]

Oh, just one thing before I go. About Bob Hawkins.

[Character 1]

I'll see that he's made the hero of this gadget. Furthermore, there's substantial rewards.

[Character 2]

Good. Then Bob and his mother will be taken care of. Well, adios, Dale. You ready, Taro?

[Character 1]

Ready. Wait. You've earned a share of those rewards.

[Character 2]

Just tell your boss in Washington that our mission was accomplished. Easy. Come on, Scout.

[Advertiser 2]

Hey, Mr. Deal.

[Character 1]

That mask man, he's leaving. That's right, Bob. He doesn't stay around after his mission's accomplished. You see, he's the Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger, a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, is produced by Trendall Campbell Muir Incorporated. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer, your announcer, Fred Foy. Listen to the Lone Ranger. Brought to you by special recording Mondays through Fridays at this same time.

[Character 1]

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 the following ranch hand, Steve, who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739. This episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.