Ranchers in Arms | The Lone Ranger (08-11-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Podcast Information:

• Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
• Host: Andrew Rines
• Episode: Ranchers in Arms | The Lone Ranger (08-11-50)
• Release Date: February 28, 2025

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Introduction

In the Ranchers in Arms episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to the tumultuous days of the American Wild West. This episode, inspired by iconic shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, features digitally restored audio that enriches the classic Western storytelling. The narrative centers around a group of cattlemen facing threats from impending railroad development and the deceptive schemes of nefarious characters aiming to exploit the situation.

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The Conflict: Railroad Threatens the Cattlemen

The story begins with a gathering of prominent ranchers in Larrabee County, led by Big Bill Carson, one of the largest ranch owners in the area. They convene at a local café in response to a message received by Nate Dixon, hinting that the recently completed railroad tracks pose a significant threat to their livelihoods.

At 05:01, Bill Carson passionately declares:

"And it's downright unfair. We came out here by prairie schooner and ox team. We fought wild beasts, privation and hunger. Then we built homes and settled this."

The ranchers are concerned that the railroad will bring homesteaders who will establish farms, leading to the end of open-range cattle raising. Hawkins voices the common sentiment:

"How much cattle could you feed if it wasn't for the open range?" (05:52)

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The Deception: Dixon and Benton's Plot

As tensions rise, Nate Dixon claims to represent the federal government, explaining that the government plans to open the rangeland for homesteading. However, skepticism arises among the ranchers about Dixon's true intentions. Dixon's companion, posing as a federal representative named Vinton, further complicates the situation.

Bill Carson challenges Dixon's assertions, leading to a heated exchange:

"Why are you here?" (06:39)

Dixon dismisses Carson's concerns, insinuating that the railroad men have ulterior motives:

"You cattlemen all have the same idea. Think that just because you got here first, you have a right to everything." (07:23)

The tension escalates when Dixon and his cohorts devise a plan to derail an incoming train, believing it will protect their interests and allow them to seize the gold believed to be carried on board.

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The Intervention: Lone Ranger and Tonto to the Rescue

Amidst the unfolding drama, Tonto, the Lone Ranger's faithful Indian companion, arrives on the scene. Recognizing the threat posed by Dixon and his accomplices, Tonto informs the Lone Ranger:

"What you want, Stranger?" Initiates confrontation (14:53)

As Dixon attempts to control the situation with intimidation, Tonto identifies the deception:

"That was a lie, wasn't it, Benton? You and Dixon must be playing for big stakes." (20:50)

The Lone Ranger swiftly takes action to neutralize the threat, showcasing his heroic prowess. He disarms Dixon and ensures that the true intentions behind the railroad's development are exposed.

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The Showdown: Stopping the Train Wreck

The climax unfolds as Dixon and his gang attempt to sabotage the train by planting blasting powder near the tracks. Unbeknownst to them, the Lone Ranger and Tonto intercept their plan. The tension peaks when the train approaches the tampered section, and Dixon's deceit is fully revealed.

At 25:00, Tonto warns Dixon:

"You're carrying a lot of gold, mister. We were warned about an attempt to rob this train."

Despite Dixon's attempts to maintain control, the Lone Ranger's intervention prevents the catastrophe. In a daring maneuver, the Lone Ranger boards the moving train, confronts Dixon, and disarms him, ensuring the safety of the passengers and the integrity of the railroad.

As the train safely rounds the dangerous bend, division arises among the ranchers who initially doubted Dixon:

"He's an all fired fine man, Jim. He's the Lone Ranger." (27:37)

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Conclusion: Ranchers Appreciate the Lone Ranger

With Dixon and his accomplices thwarted, the ranchers recognize the true guardian of their community. The episode concludes with the cattlemen acknowledging the Lone Ranger's heroism and the restoration of peace in Larrabee County.

Tonto succinctly captures the resolution:

"He's an all fired fine man, Jim. He's the Lone Ranger." (27:37)

The episode not only delivers thrilling Western action but also underscores themes of deception, community solidarity, and the timeless battle between honest ranchers and unscrupulous schemers.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Bill Carson on Fairness:

  "And it's downright unfair. We came out here by prairie schooner and ox team." (05:01)

• Hawkins on Open Range:

  "How much cattle could you feed if it wasn't for the open range?" (05:52)

• Tonto Confronts Deception:

  "That was a lie, wasn't it, Benton? You and Dixon must be playing for big stakes." (20:50)

• Tonto on the Lone Ranger's Heroism:

  "He's an all fired fine man, Jim. He's the Lone Ranger." (27:37)

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Final Thoughts

Ranchers in Arms | The Lone Ranger masterfully blends suspense, action, and classic Western motifs. Through impeccable voice acting and enhanced digital audio, the episode brings to life the struggles of ranchers against external threats and the unwavering bravery of the Lone Ranger. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Old Time Radio Westerns, this episode offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Wild West.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Bill Carson]

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 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 a speed of light, a cloud of dust, and the hearty Hio Silver the Lone Ranger, with his faithful Indian companion, Toto, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse. Silver, the Lone Ranger rides again. Big Bill Carson owned one of the largest ranches in Larrabee County. In response to a message, he came into town to attend a meeting in one corner of the cafe. He found that many other ranchers were there ahead of him.

[Nate Dixon]

Hey, Bill, you're just the man we want. Glad you could get here then.

[Hawkins]

What's going on?

[Nate Dixon]

Looks like we cattlemen got to take action. Come on over and listen to what Nate Dixon has to say. Hi there, Carson.

[Hawkins]

Howdy, boys.

[Tonto]

Shake hands with Nate Dixon.

[Nate Dixon]

East from the next county.

[Bill Carson]

Dixon, this is Bill Carson. He's about the biggest rancher we got around here. Glad to know you, Carson.

[Hawkins]

Dixon, You a cattleman?

[Bill Carson]

That's right.

[Tonto]

Bill Dixon has been telling us a few things about the railroad.

[Hawkins]

What about the railroad?

[Tonto]

Well, we've got. Stop it.

[Hawkins]

Stop it. Hawkins, you local. They just finished building the tracks. Railroad'll be a fine thing for all of us.

[Bill Carson]

That's the talk those schemers have been spreading. Carson, what's gonna happen when thousands of people come out here on the railroad to take up land and start farms?

[Tonto]

It'll mean the end of cattle raising. Sure.

[Hawkins]

How will it?

[Bill Carson]

How much cattle could you feed if it wasn't for the open range?

[Hawkins]

Mighty little.

[Tonto]

That's it. And what'll happen to the range?

[Narrator]

When all the nesters move in.

[Hawkins]

They haven't heard anything about the nesters moving in.

[Tonto]

Well, you're hearing about it right now.

[Bill Carson]

And it's downright unfair. We came out here by prairie schooner and ox team. We fought wild beasts, privation and hunger. Then we built homes and settled this.

[Tonto]

Part of the country.

[Bill Carson]

Now a pack of lazy, good for nothing sod busters. Ride out on the train, take up homesteads on the range and our cattle will stop.

[Hawkins]

How do you know all these people are coming, Dixie?

[Bill Carson]

Why, they've got to come. How can the railroad make money if it doesn't carry passengers?

[Nate Dixon]

The railroad men will see to it that people move out here.

[Hawkins]

Go on. There. I looked on the railroad. It's a good thing for all of us. I thought it'd save us a lot of time and money shipping cattle by train.

[Tonto]

Sure, sure, that's what we all thought.

[Hawkins]

Has the land around here been open to homesteaders?

[Bill Carson]

No, but it's going to be.

[Tonto]

Dixon has all the faculty.

[Bill Carson]

Land's going to be opened up all along the tracks.

[Hawkins]

Elliot's curious I didn't hear about it before this.

[Bill Carson]

The railroad men are trying to keep a secret so there won't be any interference. Look, I'll prove what I say. You see that man sitting all by himself here on the corner?

[Hawkins]

Yes, I see him.

[Bill Carson]

I happen to know who he is and why he's around this part of the country. Get him over here.

[Tonto]

Yeah, I'll go get him.

[Hawkins]

Now, boys, even if Dixon is right in what he says, I don't see as there's much we can do about it.

[Bill Carson]

You can do the same as a cattleman over in my county Are doing. Same as a cattleman beyond here. Will do after I call on him and tell him the facts.

[Nate Dixon]

Joe is bringing the stranger.

[Tonto]

Good. Looks like Joe had to nudge him with the business end of a six gun. Sit right over and join the party, misses.

[Nate Dixon]

Not used to being threatened. What's this mean?

[Bill Carson]

He just wants straight answers to straight questions, that's all. Your name's Vinton, isn't it?

[Narrator]

It is.

[Nate Dixon]

I'll have you know I represent the federal government, Mr. Vinton.

[Bill Carson]

Why are you here?

[Nate Dixon]

None of your business.

[Hawkins]

Hold on, Vinton. There's no call to get rid. We're just curious, that's all.

[Nate Dixon]

I'm investigating rangeland. Does that answer your question?

[Bill Carson]

Just why is a man from the federal government investigating the range?

[Nate Dixon]

It's to be opened up for homesick.

[Tonto]

Did you hear that, Carson?

[Bill Carson]

There you are.

[Hawkins]

Never believe me now.

[Nate Dixon]

See Here, Vinton, the range is cut up. What about our cattle? What about it? We need the open range to feed our lives, sir. You'll have to fence the land. You cut down your stock to what you can feed.

[Tonto]

Fence our land? Of course. Where they want it. Now, see here, you can't do this to us. We won't stand for it. Doggone right, we won't. How about you, Carson?

[Bill Carson]

You got more cattle than all the.

[Tonto]

Rest of us put together.

[Hawkins]

Nobody better try to put my livestock off the range.

[Bill Carson]

That's the talk.

[Nate Dixon]

You cattlemen all have the same idea. Think that just because you got here first, you have a right to everything. You haven't. The sooner you realize it, the better. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll go to my hotel room. Good evening.

[Bill Carson]

Why, you. Let him go. Let him go.

[Tonto]

Well, Bill, I guess we got it straight.

[Hawkins]

They never believed it.

[Bill Carson]

Have I proved my point, Carson?

[Hawkins]

Yeah. Yeah, Dixon, I guess you have.

[Nate Dixon]

We've got to do something, Chance.

[Bill Carson]

I figure that if the railroad hears from influential cattlemen all along the line of track, it might do some good. The men over in my county are writing a letter. I suggest that you do the same.

[Hawkins]

What kind of a letter?

[Bill Carson]

Hell, the railroad. We don't want any of their trains coming out this way. Tell them we'll take action if they run trains in spite of our warning. Ah, that wouldn't help.

[Nate Dixon]

After spending all they did to lay the tracks, they won't pay any attention to a letter like that.

[Bill Carson]

They'll pay attention if we derail a train. You mean break it?

[Hawkins]

Sure way to prediction.

[Bill Carson]

We had to fight hard to get settled here. Let's fight to hold what we got.

[Nate Dixon]

Maybe he's right.

[Tonto]

It sounds reasonable to me. How about you, Carson?

[Hawkins]

I don't like to think of derailing a train.

[Tonto]

Well, neither do I, but we've got to save the range. Ain't likely anyone will get hurt just derailing a train.

[Bill Carson]

But it'd be a good warning.

[Hawkins]

We fought to win the range. I reckon we have a right to fight to hold it.

[Tonto]

Good for you, Bill. Then we're all agreed. We'll write the letter here. Here.

[Bill Carson]

Just a moment, Bill. I have a letter all written right here with me. You can sign it and we'll send it east on the next day.

[Hawkins]

We'll show em.

[Tonto]

If they run a train in spite of our warning, we'll smash it and let them know we mean business.

[Narrator]

The ranchers signed the letter and left it with Dixon to mail. Shortly after the meeting broke up, Dixon Went to the hotel and rapped on the door of a man who had posed as a representative of the federal government. The man named Vinton.

[Nate Dixon]

Come in, Dixon. The meeting broken up?

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Bill Carson]

I waited for the cattlemen to leave for the ranchers before I came here to see him.

[Nate Dixon]

How'd everything go?

[Bill Carson]

First rate. First rate? You're a better actor now, thought Vinton. Blame near had me believing you were a government man.

[Nate Dixon]

What about the letter? Did Carson sign it?

[Bill Carson]

Carson, Hawkins and all the others.

[Tonto]

Good.

[Bill Carson]

Now the cattlemen be blamed for what happens.

[Nate Dixon]

Are you sure there'll be gold on that train?

[Bill Carson]

Gold coins straight from the mint vent. Soon as the train is wrecked, we'll grab the cash. Then the government and the railroad can fight it out with the cattlemen.

[Nate Dixon]

Has the letter been mailed?

[Bill Carson]

Who's out the stage first thing in the morning.

[Nate Dixon]

I hope the railroad doesn't take the letter too seriously.

[Bill Carson]

How do you mean?

[Nate Dixon]

Be a shame if the railroad people didn't send out the train.

[Bill Carson]

You needn't lose any sleep over that. By the time that letter reaches the east, the train will be smashed to kindling and we'll be headed for other parts with enough gold to make us rich. Good. Now that I've reported to you, gonna turn in.

[Tonto]

Gotta get out early in the morning.

[Bill Carson]

And help the cattlemen.

[Nate Dixon]

Help them?

[Bill Carson]

Yeah. We're going to the valley and explode some blasting powder to destroy the railroad tracks.

[Narrator]

The following morning, the cattlemen met not far from the Carson ranch and brought with them picks and spades to dig holes in which blasting powder could be planted near the rails.

[Bill Carson]

This ground's mighty hard packed. Tough digging.

[Hawkins]

Yeah, it sure is. Hey, addiction. Are you sure this blaster stopped the train without killing anyone?

[Tonto]

Sure.

[Bill Carson]

The blaster just throw a lot of dirt over the rails. Train won't be able to get through.

[Hawkins]

I don't know anything about trains. Seems to me the whole train might be tipped over.

[Bill Carson]

I know what I'm doing, Carson. Just do as I say and don't worry about it. Not getting cold feet, are you?

[Hawkins]

No.

[Tonto]

Well, you got it back.

[Bill Carson]

What you said in the letter.

[Nate Dixon]

Dixon is right.

[Tonto]

The railroad ignores a warning, they'll have to take what comes.

[Hawkins]

We're planting an awful lot of putty.

[Tonto]

Better.

[Bill Carson]

Too much and too little. Gotta throw enough dirt over the tracks to stop the train.

[Hawkins]

Looks to me as if we're planting enough to tear the tracks right out of the ground.

[Tonto]

Dog gone.

[Nate Dixon]

My back's most broke from digging.

[Bill Carson]

How about some of you other gents grappling us feed?

[Nate Dixon]

Hey, hold on, Joe. Maybe we can get someone to do it for us. Hey, you injured? I saw that redskin right up.

[Bill Carson]

Never thought of asking him to dig for us.

[Nate Dixon]

There's no harm in trying. Hey, engine, you call me?

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Bill Carson]

Want a job? Doing yourself some cash money.

[Nate Dixon]

You work for railroad?

[Bill Carson]

Not exactly, but we'll pay you well.

[Nate Dixon]

Sure we will. Grab a pickaxe and bust up the ground alongside the tracks. Why are you very. Powder near tractor.

[Bill Carson]

Stop the train. Now get to work.

[Hawkins]

Well, hold on. You can't get any man to help by talking that way. What's your name?

[Tonto]

Me?

[Nate Dixon]

Tonto.

[Hawkins]

Tonto? Like Bill Carson?

[Nate Dixon]

Me no.

[Hawkins]

Oh, you do? Ah, well, I'll tell you the situation. We don't want a load of homesteaders coming out here to take over the raid. You savvy?

[Nate Dixon]

Me savvy.

[Hawkins]

We wrote and said so. Now, if the railroad comes out in spite of our letter, we aim to stop it. We need some help. You want a job?

[Tonto]

No.

[Nate Dixon]

Me not want that kind of work.

[Bill Carson]

Hey, hold on.

[Hawkins]

Yeah. Come back here.

[Narrator]

Toto rode down the hillside and raced across the valley where he was supposed to join the Lone Ranger. The masked man rose to meet his Indian friend and listened attentively while Toto explained what had made him late.

[Nate Dixon]

We see men working near railroad track. Go take a close look.

[Narrator]

Tato told about the plans to fire blasting powder strategically close to the railroad tracks so the rails would be buried beneath tons of earth.

[Tonto]

Otto, that ties in with something I heard.

[Nate Dixon]

What?

[Tonto]

That I went to town in disguise this morning to get some supplies. The cattlemen were talking about a letter that was going east on the stagecoach. Oh, I wonder if those men know the train is already on the way. We'll be here long before the letter reaches its destination.

[Nate Dixon]

Me not know.

[Tonto]

Furthermore, Bill Carson, the other ranchers seem to think the rangeland is going to be turned over to homesteaders. I don't know where they got that idea. I am going to find out.

[Nate Dixon]

You say train come through plenty soon?

[Tonto]

Yes. I wish you'd follow the railroad tracks east to the top of Ball Mountain. When you see the train, send me a signal. A fire at night or a column of smoke in daylight.

[Nate Dixon]

Me start now?

[Tonto]

Yes. Easy shot. I'll be on the move as soon as I saddle Silver. Adios. Adios.

[Nate Dixon]

Get him up.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the last charges of blasting powder had been planted and fused by the cattlemen. Big Bill Carson still looked dubious.

[Bill Carson]

There we are. Now, you want to light those fuses, Carson?

[Hawkins]

No addiction. I'm still not convinced we're doing the right thing? What do you mean?

[Bill Carson]

Well, it's too late to back out now.

[Tonto]

Hey, hey, look at that rider heading this way. He's wearing a mask.

[Hawkins]

You're right, Hookins. He is masked.

[Tonto]

Get your guns, boys.

[Bill Carson]

This might be a sticker.

[Narrator]

Dixon and half a dozen ranchers turned toward the oncoming masked rider. And each man had a hand on the handle of his gun.

[Hawkins]

What do you want, stranger?

[Tonto]

I want to talk to Bill Carson.

[Hawkins]

That's me.

[Tonto]

They're going to take your hands away from your guns. That's how we know who you are.

[Bill Carson]

And what you want.

[Tonto]

Now get off that horse and unmask.

[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. Now to continue. As the Lone Ranger dismounted, he studied the faces of the cattlemen he knew they were honest, hard working men ready to fight hard for their rights. And their faces were grim. Big Bill Carson stepped forward.

[Hawkins]

You said you wanted to speak to me. Take that mask off. Then you can talk.

[Tonto]

I wonder if any of you men would shoot me if I refused to take off this mask.

[Bill Carson]

Let's see your face, stranger. That's enough.

[Hawkins]

I'll handle this. Did you look here, missy? Where do you want to see me?

[Tonto]

You're an important cattleman, Carson. Was it your idea to erect a train?

[Narrator]

Surprising speed, the Lone Ranger unexpectedly grabbed Bill Carson by the wrist and twisted his arm behind his back. So Carson had a turn with his back to the masked man.

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Nate Dixon]

My arm.

[Hawkins]

You're breaking my arm.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger's other hand brought a six gun into view.

[Tonto]

Carson is my shield. You can't get me without putting a bullet through him, you said.

[Bill Carson]

Oh, my hand.

[Tonto]

Your hand wasn't hit. My bullet struck your gun. Anyone else want to try a shot?

[Hawkins]

Get me loose from this here.

[Narrator]

Let's rush him.

[Tonto]

Don't try it. Hand back, all of you.

[Narrator]

Before the menace of the masked man's gun, the cattleman drew back several paces.

[Tonto]

I'm taking Carson away from here where I can talk to him alone. I'll not guarantee his safety if anyone shoots at me.

[Narrator]

Carson struggled, but the masked man's grip on his wrist was a grip of steel. And upward pressure on Carson's arm, twisted behind his back, brought excruciating pain. Carson's other arm was locked, so the big cattleman could do nothing to relieve the pressure. Let go, baby.

[Hawkins]

Let go, baby.

[Tonto]

Here. You struggle any harder, I'll have to break your arm. Back up. We're going to Naroyo, about 50 yards from here. You men stay right where you are. Come on, Silver, follow along.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and his prisoner moved backwards step by step, while the masked man kept his eyes and his gun leveled at the others until he reached the rim of an arroyo 50 yards away. Dense underbrush grew along the edge of the arroyo. There he stopped and questioned Carson. At that moment, the Lone Ranger saw a column of smoke begin to rise from the top of Bald Mountain. He watched it spiral skyward until he learned from Carson why the ranchers planned to derail the train. Carson finished.

[Hawkins]

We got this land the hard way and we aim to keep it. And no masked man is going to stop it.

[Tonto]

Parson, according to your story, a government agent told you the land was to be open for homesteading.

[Hawkins]

That's right.

[Tonto]

That isn't true. There's no plan to let homesteaders into Larrabee County. As for Dixon, why did he come here? He has a small ranch in the next county. Why didn't he stay there and ask his own neighbors to help him?

[Hawkins]

I hadn't thought of that.

[Tonto]

You've been misled.

[Hawkins]

He sent a letter warning the railroad people. They run a train at their own risk.

[Tonto]

Your warning letter left on the stagecoach this morning. It can't reach the railroad office for several days.

[Hawkins]

There's no train coming through for a week.

[Tonto]

The train's on its way right now. Look at the top of Ball Mountain. You see that smoke?

[Hawkins]

Yes.

[Tonto]

That's a signal from my friend. The train is on the far side of the mountain bay.

[Hawkins]

That's true. Dixon lied.

[Tonto]

Dixon did lie. You'll know it when the train appears. Go back and tell your friends Dixon lied to you. Tell them what they mean.

[Hawkins]

Explosion. They fired the blasting party.

[Tonto]

The fact's been either ripped apart or buried, Possibly both.

[Hawkins]

Dixon must have given a word.

[Tonto]

Dixon wants that train wrecked.

[Hawkins]

Yes, but why?

[Tonto]

I don't know.

[Hawkins]

There's no reason to wreck the train. If the government isn't going to open this land for homesteading.

[Tonto]

Dixon must have a reason.

[Hawkins]

What are you going to do?

[Tonto]

I'm going to stop the train. You tell the other ranchers what you've learned. We'll deal with Dixon later.

[Hawkins]

How do I know you're telling the truth about the homestead?

[Tonto]

You can check that.

[Narrator]

Vinton. The man who had claimed to be a federal representative, stepped from the brushwood at the edge of the arroyo with a heavy gun held steady, he covered both the Lone Ranger and Bill Carson. He approached, but halted several paces back, too far for the masked man to have any hope of knocking aside his gun. The Lone Ranger waited, calculating his chances, watching Vinton for a split second when the gunman might be off guard. But Vinton was sure of himself.

[Nate Dixon]

You're both covered. I'll shoot at the drop of a hat, so don't take any chances. You, mister, keep your hands away from your guns.

[Tonto]

You called him Vinton. Is he the one who said he represented the government?

[Hawkins]

Yes.

[Tonto]

That was a lie, wasn't it, Benton? You and Dixon must be playing for big stakes.

[Nate Dixon]

We are. We don't intend to let anyone get in our way.

[Hawkins]

Then you're not a government man.

[Nate Dixon]

You're learning, Tusk.

[Hawkins]

What's the idea hiding in the brushwood?

[Nate Dixon]

Dixon and I thought it would be wise to have an ace in the hole. I guess it was.

[Hawkins]

Well, Vin, I don't know why you and Dixon want to wreck the train. When the Kettlemen hear this.

[Nate Dixon]

They're all looking over here, Carson. From where they stand, it looks like I'm holding a gun on the masked man. I'll bet every one of them is glad to see me bitten.

[Tonto]

You've given Carson the proof he needed.

[Nate Dixon]

That's too bad for Carson. Now he'll have to get what you get. I'm going to shoot you both.

[Hawkins]

You don't dare shoot me in plain sight, my friend.

[Nate Dixon]

It won't be in plain sight, Carson. The shooting will be done at the bottom of the arroyo. And the masked man will get credit for killing you.

[Tonto]

You've planned very carefully, haven't you, Benton? Yeah, and now I. I'm curious. I wonder what you plan to do about the cattlemen when the train is wrecked. You couldn't very well loot it while they all stand around watching.

[Nate Dixon]

We didn't figure on having them around. The train is coming. Like you say, it's ahead of time. But me and Dixon will handle the situation. Stand still. You stand still, I say. Stuff edging sideways. You two stay close together so I can keep you both covered. Now get down to the bottom of that arroyo.

[Hawkins]

Hey, Pleases, if you're going to do any shooting, you'll do it right here where all my friends can see what's going on.

[Nate Dixon]

I can do that, Carson, if that's the way you want it. Remember, all those men think I'm a government man. You'll be shot for resisting when I put you under arrest for plotting to wreck the train.

[Tonto]

There's just one thing you've overlooked, Vinton. You've been watching us so closely you've forgotten my horse. Take him Silver.

[Narrator]

Silver had been watching his master with hands raised before a pointed gun, and the carefully trained stallion was ready. At the word, he leaped into action, charging against Vinton and knocking the schemer off balance.

[Tonto]

Come on, Bill.

[Narrator]

Seizing the opportunity, the Lone Ranger leaped forward and shot his fist to Vinton's chin.

[Nate Dixon]

Oh, that's his stuff.

[Tonto]

Here's another.

[Hawkins]

That got him.

[Tonto]

It'll hold him for a few minutes.

[Hawkins]

Dixon's bringing the others. They're shooting at you.

[Tonto]

Dixon's doing the shooting.

[Hawkins]

No.

[Tonto]

No.

[Hawkins]

Hold your fire, boys. Nice man's on our side.

[Tonto]

I'll have to do something about Dixon.

[Hawkins]

Hit his arm.

[Tonto]

Talk to them, Carson. I'll try to stop that plane.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger leaped through the brushwood and out of sight before the oncoming cattlemen could. The great horse Silver followed as the ranchers rushed to Carson's side.

[Tonto]

Oh, wait.

[Hawkins]

Wait, boys. Listen to me. He's all right. It's Bitton and Dixon who are wrong. Now listen to me.

[Bill Carson]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

Lone Ranger guided Silver at top speed along the floor of the arroyo until he was well out of range of the ranchers. Then he cut sharply to one side.

[Tonto]

Come on, big fella. Up we go. That's it, Silver.

[Narrator]

Silver scrambled up the steep bank.

[Bill Carson]

Now.

[Tonto]

To meet that train.

[Narrator]

Far ahead. The masked man saw the train appear over the crest of the mountain range. It was moving very slowly as it started the downhill run toward the place where the rails had been covered with dirt. The crane was gaining full speed, and the men in the cab were glad the hard pull was behind them.

[Tonto]

More than one reason, Joe.

[Nate Dixon]

We're toting a heavy load. I wasn't sure it'd make the hill.

[Tonto]

I sure fed the old boiler with a head of steam we had. We couldn't miss making the hill.

[Nate Dixon]

I was a might fearful of outlaws when we were running so slow. Word might have gone out about the gold we're carrying.

[Tonto]

Well, we got a clear run now. Long and straight downhill.

[Bill Carson]

Open the throttle and let's highball. You gonna open the throttle?

[Nate Dixon]

Hey, lookin out the window. Man's riding up this hill at top speed.

[Tonto]

Yeah, he seems to be waving at us. Why, he's masked.

[Nate Dixon]

Maybe we talked too soon when we thought we were out of danger from outlaws.

[Tonto]

Open the throttle wide.

[Hawkins]

Maybe we can outrun that critter.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger drew Silver to a sharp halt and turned abruptly as the train swept past.

[Tonto]

That's a train.

[Narrator]

His shout was lost in the rumbling of the wheels and the hissing of steam.

[Tonto]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

He had no choice but to turn and ride at top speed down the dangerous hill. Silver seemed to know what was expected. The gallant horse poured every ounce of his great strength into maintaining the killing pace. The masked man knew it was useless to shout. He guided Silver closer to the engine. The pounding hoops were right beside the rumbling wheels. The Lone Ranger leaned over. One hand touched the stair rail. His fingers gripped hard. He loosened the stirrups. Then he dropped the range and grabbed the rail with both hands. He pulled himself from the saddle. For a moment, the Lone Ranger's boots dangled just above the huge wheels. Then he swung himself up into the cab.

[Nate Dixon]

If this is a hold up, you're.

[Tonto]

As good as dead. I tried to tell you to stop. There's danger ahead.

[Nate Dixon]

Stop so you can rob us? No.

[Tonto]

If you keep on, you'll wreck this train. The tracks are buried.

[Nate Dixon]

You're carrying a lot of gold, mister. We were warned about an attempt to rob this train.

[Tonto]

Take my guns if you like, but slow down.

[Nate Dixon]

I'll take your guns.

[Tonto]

All right, you firemen, look out the window. Watch the tracks. You'll see they're buried under tons of dirt.

[Bill Carson]

Hey, Jim, he's right.

[Tonto]

Huh? Up ahead. A lot of understanding and wavering. The tracks are buried.

[Nate Dixon]

You're ganging, mister, waiting to attack us.

[Tonto]

My gang wanted to loot this train. I'd have let you go ahead and smash up Jim. Stop the train. Hurry it up. Stand aside.

[Nate Dixon]

Let me add that throttle. That was a close one.

[Tonto]

You may know some of those men. There's Bill Carson.

[Nate Dixon]

I know him.

[Tonto]

And Hawkins.

[Hawkins]

Hi there, tv. You're headed closer.

[Nate Dixon]

How'd the tracks get buried, Carson?

[Hawkins]

Well, it's a long story. We got the two crooks who aim direct the train and steal all that's on board. Including. Including the gold.

[Nate Dixon]

Good.

[Hawkins]

We the pack of fools listening to a lot of lies about the railroad would have been a pack Achilles if you hadn't stopped.

[Nate Dixon]

We wouldn't have stopped if that masked man hadn't done the humdingonest piece of riding I ever saw. Hey, wait a minute, mister.

[Tonto]

I want to get my horse.

[Nate Dixon]

But I want the passengers you saved to meet you. They owe their lives to you. Hold on, will you?

[Hawkins]

It's no use, Jim. You won't stick around to meet the people. He hedge. He doesn't accept praise or thanks for what he does. As soon as he finishes one job, he moves on to another.

[Nate Dixon]

Well, he's sure an all fired fine rider.

[Hawkins]

He's an all fired fine man, Jim. He's the Lone Ranger.

[Tonto]

It.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of Balloon Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Enterprises and directed by Charles D. Livingston. Tonight's drama was written by Fran Stryker. The part of 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 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.