Set a Thief | The Lone Ranger (02-03-41)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns

The Lone Ranger: "Set a Thief" (Original Airdate: 02-03-41)

Podcast Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: December 13, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored classic adventure from “The Lone Ranger” radio drama, titled "Set a Thief." The story immerses listeners in the intrigue following a violent bank robbery in the town of Claymore, instigated by Bat Benson and his notorious gang. Against a backdrop of suspicion and ruined livelihoods, the Lone Ranger employs daring strategy and deception to restore justice, clear an innocent man's name, and bring the outlaws to heel.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. The Bank Robbery in Claymore (03:56–05:45)

• Setting the Scene:

  • The town of Claymore is introduced as sleepy and unsuspecting.
  • The Stockman’s Bank is abruptly held up by Bat Benson’s gang.
  • The robbery is swift and violent; the townspeople and bank staff are helpless.

• Notable Moment:

  • Banker Tom Craig demonstrates defiance, while clerk Sam Kramer and others try to maintain composure.
  • Two Gun, one of Bat’s men, is shot in the chaos, providing a possible lead for the law.

2. Fallout and Suspicion (07:11–12:11)

• Personal Financial Ruin:

  • Tom Craig reveals to his wife Bess that he liquidated the bank’s investments due to poor economic news from the East.
  • The robbery wipes out the bank, devastating Claymore.

• Sowing Doubt:

  • Suspicion about Tom’s involvement in the heist emerges, fed by Sam Kramer’s remarks and Tom’s recent financial moves.
  • The Lone Ranger appears, masked and enigmatic, questioning Tom and Bess about the rumors.
  • Tom is forced to defend his actions and intentions, while Bess stands by him.

• Notable Quote:

  • The Lone Ranger: "Well, certain people are hinting that Tom might have known about this hold up ahead of time. That everything possible had been turned into cash so that a fake robbery could be staged..." (09:37)

• The Lone Ranger’s Departure:

  • Leaves a silver bullet as his calling card, confirming his identity to the Craigs.
  • He hints at a plan to recover the stolen money and warns the couple not to judge by appearances.

3. Ingenious Plan: Using a Thief to Catch Thieves (12:27–17:19)

• Lone Ranger’s Ruse:

  • The Lone Ranger breaks Two Gun out of jail, staging the escape to gain the gang’s trust.
  • The act also casts further suspicion on Tom Craig in town, complicating his predicament.

• Lone Ranger’s Strategy:

  • Tonto, disguised as a bystander, trails Two Gun’s return to the gang’s hideout without being detected.
  • The Lone Ranger’s manipulation is a calculated risk aimed at getting inside Bat Benson’s operation.

• Notable Quote:

  • Sheriff (to Two Gun): "Next time one of Bat Benson’s gang is caught, you’d better hang him on the spot because he’ll never be kept in jail." (14:37)

4. Locating the Outlaw Hideout (17:46–22:00)

• Covert Tracking:

  • Tonto successfully follows Two Gun and reports back, drawing a map to the well-defended hideout.
  • The outlaws have chosen a location protected by a narrow, guarded pass, making it virtually impenetrable.

• Sheriff’s Dilemma:

  • Tom Craig is questioned again by the sheriff, now suspected by the townsfolk of colluding with the bandits.
  • Tom maintains his integrity, expressing faith in the masked man’s true intentions.

5. The Trap and the Double Bluff (25:08–29:00)

• The Setup:

  • The Lone Ranger approaches the hideout openly and is challenged to join the gang, but only if he unmasks.
  • He refuses but outsmarts Bat and Two Gun by feinting compliance, then draws his gun and turns the tables.

• Showdown:

  • As the gang is distracted by the approaching posse (which the Lone Ranger has led to the hideout), he takes Bat prisoner and clears the way for lawmen to arrest the rest.
  • The real criminal mastermind is exposed, and the gang is apprehended.

• Notable Moments & Quotes:

  • Bat Benson: “You’ll have to take off that mask and show us your face.” (28:01)
  • The Lone Ranger, bluffing: “The mask stays on. ... Very well then, it was the rule of your game.” (28:09, 28:27)
  • Tom Craig, vindicated: “Sheriff. I told you that was the Lone Ranger. Don’t you see what he’s done? He pretended to be a crook just to find where Bat was. And he found out in the only way possible by letting Two Gun lead him here.” (29:21)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• The Lone Ranger to Tom Craig:
  "You’ve seen that appearances can lie. You’ll probably hear something that may convince you I’m an outlaw. But reserve judgment. You’ll find it pays." (11:39)

• Bess Craig, on recognizing the Lone Ranger:
  "Tom, don’t you remember those stories... a man with a mask. A horse called Silver." (11:16)

• Bat Benson plotting:
  "We’re going to make him take off his mask. We’re gonna be the first fellas that ever seen what he looks like underneath that covering of his. ... Then he gets drilled." (25:35)

• The Lone Ranger, foiling the outlaws:
  "Don’t make a move now. Walk ahead of me. I’m following on Silver. Walk to your men at the pass. Hurry..." (28:37)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Opening narration and bank heist setup: 03:56–05:45
• Suspicion cast on Tom, Lone Ranger visits: 07:11–12:11
• Lone Ranger’s plan in action: 12:27–17:19
• Tonto trails Two Gun, plotting the rescue: 17:46–22:00
• The trap is sprung, Bat Benson captured: 25:08–29:21

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Episode Style and Tone

The original radio drama tone is earnest, suspenseful, and rich with Old West atmosphere. Dialogue maintains classic heroic and villainous archetypes, with the Lone Ranger calm, cunning, and moral; townsfolk fearful but resilient; and outlaws ruthless yet ultimately outwitted.

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Summary

"Set a Thief" exemplifies why "The Lone Ranger" holds a beloved place in classic American radio. This artfully restored episode brings to life a narrative of strategy, courage, and the power of reputation. The Lone Ranger’s bold use of subterfuge and trust in character ultimately redeems the unjustly accused and brings notorious criminals to justice—reminding listeners that in the Old West, it often takes a clever hero to outsmart both villainy and doubt.

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Transcript

[Limu Emu]

Limu Emu and Doug.

[Narrator (Liberty Mutual Ad)]

Here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.

[Tom Craig]

Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us.

[Narrator (Liberty Mutual Ad)]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty, Liberty.

[Tom Craig]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Liberty Savings vary underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Sarah]

Hey, this is Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and, well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling, even kind of cheesy. But I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell, Oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[Limu Emu]

Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit made with K tree eggs, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. AM PM Too much. Good stuff.

[Andrew Rines (Host of Old Time Radio Westerns)]

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

[The Lone Ranger]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty.

[Tom Craig]

Hi, Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger. With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early days of the western United States. His strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness were always on the side of right against might. His life was devoted to the cause of justice. And it was he, more than any other man, who brought peace and security to the frontier and made possible the winning of the West. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats the great horse Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[Tom Craig]

Come on, Silver. We're heading for Claymore. It's going to be trouble. Hail, Silver, Hawaii.

[Limu Emu]

And Doug.

[Narrator (Liberty Mutual Ad)]

Here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug Limu.

[Tom Craig]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Narrator (Liberty Mutual Ad)]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty.

[Tom Craig]

Liberty. Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Liberty Savings Ferry unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates Excludes Massachusetts.

[The Lone Ranger]

On the surface, nothing unusual was happening in Claymore on the afternoon Our story opens the dusty main street, as was customary at that time of day, was almost deserted. A cowboy returning to his home ranch unhurriedly guided his horse eastward. A few loafers dozed in front of the cafe. Others followed their example. Before the harness shop, a woman shopping entered the general store. It was clear that no one in town noted the significance of the half dozen horses standing before the Stockman's bank with reins flung over their heads. If it had been guessed that those horses belonged to Bat Benson and his gang, the sleepy town would have been rudely awakened. Inside the bank, Bat was issuing swift orders.

[Tom Craig]

Keep reaching, all of you. The first one lowers a hand gets lead. Two gun there, boss. Keep an eye on these armories. Right, Gus. Hurry it up. I'm near finished. Bat, you're cleaning out my bank. Sure. You got any objections, you dirty crook? Set your trash all right there, mister. You heard the boss. Keep your hands where they belong. You'll get yours for this. Better not swear anything, Sam. These men mean business. They'll shoot to kill. We've done it before, Mr. Craig. They'll be ruined. Money isn't worth a man's life, Sam. Leave these skunks to the law. Not so free with your lip there, you, Gus. We ain't got all day. Somebody's like to drop in here any minute. Get a move on. Just a second. There. That's the last of it. I'm coming. Nobody outside. With the horses is a two gun. Hope we're clear, then we're hightailing. We're leaving, folks. But don't let that put no notions in your heads. We're still watching you. Come on, Gus. Come on, Two Gun. Back out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Tom Craig]

Easy now, gent. Just take it easy. Watch out. Oh, Fox. Hand down on the floor. The bank has got too help, Bass. Help me do the last, will you, miss? Come back fast. Get me out of here, Boss. Them sharks rob us the town, we can't stop for you. Two guns to the hot des, boys. Mr. Fate takes arms with every dollar the bank has.

[The Lone Ranger]

My leg.

[Tom Craig]

You got me in the knees. You had more than that coming. There's the sheriff. Deputy, get a party and take after them fellas. That's Pat Benson's case. What's happening here? As soon as I can hear myself talk. You hurt, Craig? No, not even Nick. Who's this fella? One of the gang, sheriff. And that's the one they call Two Guns. That's him, Sheriff. I heard Bat call him that. My knee. Get me to his sawbones. What you ought to get is the end of a rope, Craig. You lose much everything, Sheriff. Drat em. Six holed up in my county in the last month. And all of them done by bats off fish. And why don't you catch them, Sheriff? It's not the Sheriff's fault. How are you going to catch crooks that don't leave no trail? No trail at all. Not after they hit that lava country. They get the hills where the manpaw is and there's no trailing them. Well, something's got to be done. I'm not blaming you, Sheriff, but something will have to be done. Do you realize what this hold up means to Claymore? The town's broke. I'm cleaned out and bats riding away with the savings of everyone who deposited with me. Well, we got this fella here anyhow, sawbones. And by heavens, he'll tell us where that bat's hid or he'll decorate a rope by morning. Give me a hand, you fellas. Help me carry this crook to jail.

[The Lone Ranger]

The sheriff threatened, begged and reasoned with his prisoner. The outlaw refused to talk. That evening in Tom Craig's home, his wife Bess tried to comfort him and.

[Bess Craig]

Tom, it won't be so bad. You can't have lost everything. The investment.

[Tom Craig]

That's just it, honey. I got word from Collins back east that things look bad. And I've been liquidating. Liquidating? To protect my depositors. And Bat comes along, poor dear. I guess I'd have shown more sense taking a chance on a crash. We couldn't have lost more.

[Bess Craig]

You turned everything you had into cash.

[Tom Craig]

If I can pay 10 cents on the dollar, I'll be doing well.

[Bess Craig]

The townspeople, the cattlemen, they're your friends, Tom. They'll understand.

[Tom Craig]

Maybe.

[Bess Craig]

But of course they will. Not Europe, my learny. We'll get a new start somehow.

[Tom Craig]

It isn't getting a new start, Bess, or people understanding. I guess they will. How foolish I was. All that cash there. When I knew Bat was operating in this district, I. I feel as though it was my own negligence that's responsible.

[Bess Craig]

Now, now you're just exaggerating.

[Tom Craig]

Who would that be?

[Bess Craig]

Probably the sheriff. Tom.

[Tom Craig]

Who's there?

[Bess Craig]

I see.

[Tom Craig]

No, stay there, honey. I'll answer it. One moment. Who Masks.

[Bess Craig]

Tom. What's the matter?

[The Lone Ranger]

Inside, Tom. We're having a talk.

[Tom Craig]

An outlaw.

[The Lone Ranger]

If I were you, wouldn't have much left to steal, would you?

[Tom Craig]

But you're.

[Bess Craig]

Get out this very minute.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll wait.

[Bess Craig]

Hasn't Tom had enough bad luck without being plagued by more outlaws?

[The Lone Ranger]

I wonder if it is his luck that's been bad.

[Tom Craig]

What do you mean by that?

[The Lone Ranger]

You have an employee.

[Tom Craig]

Sam Kramer.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's the man. He said some things in town that started people talking.

[Bess Craig]

What things?

[The Lone Ranger]

Things that made it look rather bad for Tom here.

[Tom Craig]

You're lying. Sam wouldn't say anything against me.

[The Lone Ranger]

He didn't. He only mentioned certain facts. Others drew the conclusions.

[Tom Craig]

What conclusions?

[The Lone Ranger]

Understand me. First, I'm accusing you of nothing. As a matter of fact, I've heard you had a very good reputation until now. I'm here because I wanted to talk to you and get my own answers before acting.

[Tom Craig]

Explain yourself.

[Bess Craig]

I will if you're saying anything against my husband.

[The Lone Ranger]

One moment. Is it a fact that most of the bank's investments had been converted into cash?

[Tom Craig]

It is.

[The Lone Ranger]

Why?

[Tom Craig]

I was just speaking of it with my wife. I'd had bad news from the East. The market's due to break. Maybe a crash, even a panic. If my information is correct, I made those conversions so that my depositors wouldn't lose.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see.

[Bess Craig]

You haven't told us what's being said.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, certain people are hinting that Tom might have known about this hold up ahead of time. That everything possible had been turned into cash so that a fake robbery could be staged at that Benson was hired to do the job.

[Tom Craig]

But.

[Bess Craig]

But it was Tom who shot the outlaw they called Two Guns.

[Tom Craig]

If I'd arranged a hold up, why would I have done that?

[The Lone Ranger]

Sam told them you shot. But they know Sam is loyal to you. They think he's protecting you.

[Tom Craig]

That's ridiculous.

[The Lone Ranger]

Refuses to say anything.

[Tom Craig]

So the townspeople think I'm crooked.

[The Lone Ranger]

Not all of them, Tom. And you must remember you're a young man. You came here from the east and you haven't been in town but two years. Those things are all against you.

[Tom Craig]

And being young, an Easterner and a newcomer, are all your marks of a crook?

[The Lone Ranger]

Of course not. I mean only that people haven't had a chance to fully judge you.

[Bess Craig]

What's all this to you?

[The Lone Ranger]

I wanted to form my own conclusions about Tom's honesty. And I couldn't act until I had. Well, you may be a better actor than I think. However, I'm convinced you're honest.

[Bess Craig]

I still don't see how this can interest an outlaw.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Mrs. Craig, you've just had an example that proves appearances are sometimes misleading. Well, that mask you're wearing was heavily meaning for you.

[Tom Craig]

What is it, honey?

[Bess Craig]

Tom. A bullet. A silver bullet.

[Tom Craig]

That's strange.

[The Lone Ranger]

It means nothing to you.

[Tom Craig]

Silver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here, step over to the Door.

[Tom Craig]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Look here, Silver. That's all right, old fellow. Back, Silver. Back.

[Tom Craig]

Silver. Bullet. Your. Your horse. Name's Silver.

[Bess Craig]

Tom, don't you remember those stories the stage driver told us when we came here? A man with a mask. A horse called Silver.

[Tom Craig]

The Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

I had two plans in mind, Tom. If I had thought you guilty, I would have used one. Now I'll use the other plans to get back the money that was stolen.

[Bess Craig]

That Benson, he's never been trailed. He's never been caught.

[The Lone Ranger]

This time he will be. I want both of you to remember one thing, however.

[Tom Craig]

Yes?

[The Lone Ranger]

You've seen that appearances can lie. You'll probably hear something that may convince you I'm an outlaw. But reserve judgment. You'll find it pays. But what.

[Tom Craig]

Tados Hondo.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here. This side of the stories we've heard about Tom Craig are not true. Study, Silver.

[Tom Craig]

Yep.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll carry out the second plan we made. Get an extra horse and have him waiting outside the jail. And time to do it. Then get in hiding and be sure you're not seen. Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[Tom Craig]

Scowl.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, old fellow.

[Tom Craig]

Come on.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger waited until most of the lights in town were dimmed and the streets deserted. Then he headed for the jail. The sheriff's deputies were still out with a posse and the lawman was waiting for them in his office. Sheriff, your keys.

[Tom Craig]

Up on your hands, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll give the orders.

[Tom Craig]

That girl.

[The Lone Ranger]

Drop those guns on the floor. Drop them. Hurry. That's better.

[Tom Craig]

You. You must be Bat Benson.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Tom Craig]

No, you can't be. He ain't at all.

[The Lone Ranger]

That doesn't matter. I'm taking your prisoner, Two Gun.

[Limu Emu]

Why?

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't argue with me. Where are the cells? Through that door? Yes, and walk ahead of me. Make a false move and you'll regret it.

[Tom Craig]

You're the one that'll be sorry for this, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll worry about that. Open the door. Now keep on going.

[Tom Craig]

He ain't Bat. But you're sure as the dickens. One of his murdering gang.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's you, Two Gun.

[Tom Craig]

Who is it? Well, I'll be with a gun on the sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see you can walk.

[Tom Craig]

Just a few steps. This leg of mine is raising.

[The Lone Ranger]

Hob. Can you ride?

[Tom Craig]

What do you mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

The sheriff is letting you out. I've got a horse waiting for you in front. If you can ride, you'll be all right.

[Tom Craig]

You mean I'm getting free? That set you here.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're getting free. Unlock this cell, Sheriff.

[Tom Craig]

You'll pay for this, stranger. You'll have to give Me a hand to get outside, stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

The sheriff will do that.

[Tom Craig]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

Go ahead, help. Two Gun Walk.

[Tom Craig]

Of all the doggone things I ever heard of. Ain't it bad enough make me let the coyote loose without making me carry him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Besides, you don't have to carry him. Just give him your shoulder to lean on.

[Tom Craig]

This is good. Thank you, Sheriff. I'll see that the boys hear about how accommodating you've been. Shut your mouth.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Sheriff, out the front door. Don't shout for help.

[Tom Craig]

Don't lean on me, sir. Hard. Can't you do some walking for yourself? I'm enjoying the ride real good, Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Open the door, Sheriff.

[Tom Craig]

I won't forget this.

[The Lone Ranger]

Two Gun is riding the bay.

[Tom Craig]

Looks like a mighty fine horse, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

It is. You'll not be caught. Now then, Sheriff, lift Two Gun into the saddle.

[Tom Craig]

Gosh, I ought to have you for personal servant. Regular sheriff that. Only I'd have to teach us a manners first. All right, I'm ready. What else I got to do?

[The Lone Ranger]

Said the old fella. Nothing, Sheriff. Except tell your posse when it returns that the next time one of Bat Benson's gang is caught, you'd better hang him on the spot because he'll never be kept in jail.

[Tom Craig]

And that's no foolish blast, you two. You can take it from me, stranger. That's just what I will tell em.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Two Gun.

[Tom Craig]

Hurl. Silver Hoy.

[The Lone Ranger]

The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger story. Before the next exciting scenes. Please permit us to pause for just a few moments.

[Sarah]

Hey, this is Sarah. Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling. Even kind of cheap. Easy, but I like it. Sure, you met some of my dietary needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell, Oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[Limu Emu]

Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit made with cage free egg, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. A.m. p. M. Too much good stuff.

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[Tom Craig]

Sam.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now to continue our story. Although the Lone Ranger had vowed to bring Bat Benson and his gang to justice, his first act was to release from jail the one member of the gang the law had been able to capture with two gun. The masked man swept from town, cut away from the trail, then pulled up where a grove of trees gave them cover. I'm leaving you here. Two Gun.

[Tom Craig]

Huh? Ain't you going to the hideout with me?

[The Lone Ranger]

I doubt that Bat would want to see stranger to know where his camp is. You do.

[Tom Craig]

Hey, I thought B sent you.

[The Lone Ranger]

No. Then why are you might be too gun and I want to join your gang.

[Tom Craig]

Stranger. I'm here to say we could use you. Well, unless and Bat was told about you first, maybe it wouldn't be such a good idea for you to go there along with me.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, that's what I thought.

[Tom Craig]

But golly, wait till I tell him about the way you handle the sheriff. That was as neat as anything I ever seen before. You can take it from me, mister, Bat's going to cotton to your style.

[The Lone Ranger]

I hope he does.

[Tom Craig]

Well, I'll be getting along then. Let Bat know I'm loose. What are you gonna do, stranger?

[The Lone Ranger]

You head for your hideout. Be careful you don't run into the posse. May not have returned yet.

[Tom Craig]

They ain't worrying me none.

[The Lone Ranger]

As soon as the posse gets back, the sheriff will most likely take out on your trail. Now stay behind and see that it's too confused for him to follow.

[Tom Craig]

That's right good of you, friend, but it ain't necessary. No, they couldn't follow no trail over the ground I'm gonna cross.

[The Lone Ranger]

I see. Look here.

[Tom Craig]

Dad says it's all right for you to join up. And he'll do that sure enough. How'll I get in touch with you? Well, I know where to look to find you.

[The Lone Ranger]

You won't. Then what are you tell him bad about me. Tell him what I'VE done. And tell him to expect me within the next three days.

[Tom Craig]

Huh? Expect you where?

[The Lone Ranger]

At your hideout.

[Tom Craig]

Say, you ain't figuring on trailing me, are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

I give you my word I won't follow.

[Tom Craig]

Wouldn't do you no good if you did. I'll be keeping a lookout for that white horse of your stranger. And if you do try to keep on my track, I'll know it.

[The Lone Ranger]

I expected as much. I still say, however, that I'll be at your hideout sometime within the next three days. Maybe tomorrow, the day after. The day after that, but no later.

[Tom Craig]

You sure got me beat.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Tom Craig]

If you can find Bat's hideout without trailing one of us there. I got just one thing to say.

[The Lone Ranger]

And that.

[Tom Craig]

And that is, you better have your forest than agin us. And that's no fooling.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'd better get started.

[Tom Craig]

Just so. Well, thanks for getting me out of jail and adios.

[The Lone Ranger]

Right.

[Tom Craig]

Get up there. Get up.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger kept his word. Two Gun watched the back trail for any sign of a white horse, but failed to notice the Indian on the paint who followed him silently through the night. It was late the next day that Tonto reined up in the camp he shared with the masked man.

[Tom Craig]

Oh.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me follow him good work. Him look hard to see white horse never see paint horse. I thought that trick would fool him if you were careful. Where is the hideout? What is it like? It's way back in hill. Me make map right. Them got good place. Two men hold off posse. It's easy to defend, huh? And what's the entrance to the hideout? Like it narrow pass. Bat got two guard there. Them watch trail all time. And the pass leads where? Blind canyon. And a siege could starve them out. Maybe them got secret way out. It's possible. Moreover, Bat would never choose a blind canyon for a hideout unless he were well stocked with supplies. He's probably got food and water on hand for months in case it's needed. That right? So I'll have to be admitted to their camp. Oh, and they're plenty danger. We have no choice. You'll not capture gang loan. We'll get the law there to take a hand when it's needed. And how you do that? I think after what happened last night, the law would just need a glimpse of me to follow me anywhere. That's right. But them not keep up with Silver. And I'll have to see that Silver matches his pace to theirs. Tata, we'll act this evening and you'll have a part to play. Meanwhile in town, Tom Craig had Been openly accused of working with the outlaws and the sheriff was forced to have him brought in for questioning.

[Tom Craig]

You wanted to see me, Sheriff? Sit down, Craig. Thanks. Craig, before I say anything, I want you to savvy this ain't none of my doing. You and me have always got along fine together. I ain't like some that's always so doggone suspicious of easterners. I know that, Sheriff. Appreciate it, but I'd rather you got to the point. I can take whatever you have to say. Oh, sure, sure. Didn't mean to hint that you couldn't. Well, Craig, folks are saying you was in on this hold up and they want me to get the bottom of it. You think I was, Sheriff? Nope, I don't. Then what is there for me to say? I don't know how I can prove I wasn't in on it unless my word is proof enough do for me. But there's some as a dog gone bullheaded. They won't admit they know an honest noble even when they see one. I shot two guns. And maybe in time I could have got him to admit that fact if I could have put off his hand for a day or so. But that doggone mask feller, taking him away from here sort of complicates things. Craig, it'd do me more good than I can tell you to get the sights of my coats leveled on that masked feller just once. Just once. That's all I ask. Sheriff, I'm going to say something that will sound rather strange. Yeah? What's that? I don't believe that masked man was in with Bat. Huh? I believe he's the man we both heard about. The Lone Ranger. You're loco. I knew you wouldn't agree with me. He got reason for saying that he has silver bullets. I saw them. He wears a mask. His horse is named Silver. Oh, it can't be. I tell you, I saw what you just said. Describes the Lone Ranger from what I've heard of him. But if all the things said about that fella are true, he ain't got no more use for crooks than what I have. I know. And he sure wouldn't get a double dyed snake like two gun roofs of purpose. Not unless he had some purpose we didn't understand. What do you mean by that? Well, to tell the truth, Sheriff, I'm not sure myself. Well, Ann Craig, take a tip from me. Yeah? Don't go to telling the folks in town here that you don't think that masked fellow was a crook or they'll be More certain than ever that you're in with Matt. You can depend on it. They will, I suppose. But come in. You Sheriff fella. You can see my star, can't you? What do you want?

[The Lone Ranger]

You come quick, huh? That fella with mask in town engine.

[Tom Craig]

Just repeat that last, will you See.

[The Lone Ranger]

Fellow with mask near stage office Red Sea.

[Tom Craig]

If you seen a masked feller near the office of the stage line, I'll bet my boots it's the same pool. Cattle was here last night.

[The Lone Ranger]

Matt.

[Tom Craig]

What Tonto think it'd be just like that hombre's confounded nerve.

[The Lone Ranger]

You come office close by.

[Tom Craig]

Just across the street. Come along, Craig. I'm coming. Lead the way, Injun.

[The Lone Ranger]

Me see him beside the office.

[Tom Craig]

Around the side, huh? The Indian must mean back there in the shadow. Sheriff. Who's back there? Anybody there? There, fella. Mash. Hold on. Up on your hands. Come, Silver. Hold on. Never came close. Sheriff fella. Well, he ain't going to just ride off this time. We're taking after him. It's a Lone Ranger. You'll never catch him. But it ain't the Lone Ranger. Ain't a crook. I don't care if that fella does call his horse Silver. He ain't the fella you think he is. Deputy C.L. mark. Get the fellas together. Get a posse. We're catching ourselves a crook.

[The Lone Ranger]

But Benson and his men remain in their hideout waiting for the excitement following their last hold up to die down. A few hours later, on the same evening that the Lone Ranger led the posse out of town, Bat called Two Gun to one side and questioned him again about the masked man who had rescued him from jail.

[Tom Craig]

Two Gun A. You know, I ain't just satisfied about that fella. Gosh. Bet he's just what we need in this gang. He told he could find this hideout without following. You being told the way, huh? That's what he said. Wore a mask, huh? Cold is horse Silver? That's right. And Bat, you ought to see that horse. He'd be worth traveling clear across the state just to see him in action. Never seen nothing of a redskin along with that masked fellow, did you? A redskin? No. Why should I Has a fella you met up with is a Lone Ranger? No. I've been trying all day to think of who the fella you described reminded me of. And I just got it now. But bad. It just can't be Dog gone. I know it can't. Didn't he hold up the sheriff? Didn't he take me out of the jail? The lonely wouldn't have done them things. What's more, if he had done him on purpose, being the Lone Ranger, it would have been so's he could follow me here. But he didn't. I know right well he did. As a redskin. Dead redskin? Sure. That partner of his he calls Torno. I don't know what to think. Well, I do. If I couldn't think out things like this, I wouldn't be the leader of this point. Somebody else would. But if what you say is so, what are we going to do? We're going to fix him for good. Yeah, he's going to find out. It's one thing to know where our camp is and another to do anything about it. You got something in mind, Bat? Two men at the entrance of this canyon could hold off an army, couldn't they? Sure. And it don't matter if that masked fellow does bring a posse here. They can't get at us. I know that. That masked hombre probably wants inside here, though. That must have been one of the reasons he got friendly with you. If he's really the Lone Ranger like you say he is, I suppose he was up to something like that. Well, we're letting him in, huh? Him and just him alone. And when he gets inside, what then? We're going to make him take off his mask. We're gonna be the first fellas that ever seen what he looks like underneath that covering of his. Gosh. And then? Then he gets drilled. Bet what if he ain't the Lone Ranger after all? Won't make no difference. One feller out of the way ain't gonna bother us any. We gotten rid of plenty for this. Yeah, but just the same. He's leveling. Boss. Hey, boss. What's the matter, cuz? A man's fellow and a white horse heading right here. So he's coming, just like I said. But there's a posse behind him. What'll we do? Let the master abyss. Yeah, and then you and Sandy hold the others off. Savvy? Just the masked fella gets in here, nobody else. I'll get back to the past. Let the mass fellas roll. Sandy let him soon hold back. The Lone Ranger's gonna find he fell into the trap he built himself. There he comes. That's him. We're ready for you. Act friendly at first. They. Hi there. We've been expecting you, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

I told Tougan I'd find my way here all right.

[Tom Craig]

You did that sure enough. You aim to join our gang? From what Two Gun tells Me?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Tom Craig]

Of course. We can always use good gun hands. But if you're joining, you'll have to take off that mask and show us your face.

[The Lone Ranger]

The mask stays on.

[Tom Craig]

You'll take it. That must be the poss. Forget it. Doesn't say any. Hold him off. I'll send the other fellows to give him a hand. Get to the pad, boys. Show that posse is fit off Mortifin shoes. But that mask, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

You still insist I take it off?

[Tom Craig]

I told you I did.

[The Lone Ranger]

Very well then. It was the rule of your game.

[Tom Craig]

It is.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll now then raise your hand.

[Tom Craig]

He tricked us. He pretended to lift his hands to take off his mask and grabbed his guns on the way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Don't make a move now. Walk ahead of me. I'm following on Silver. Walk to your men at the pass. Hurry. Come on, Silver. I can guess what you'd like to do, but you won't get the chance.

[Tom Craig]

Stand clear of that pass. All of you have. Blast the first man to raise a gun. Come on, fellow. Bring the pary. The way's clear. Get him out. Let us go.

[The Lone Ranger]

Try anything and you'll taste lead.

[Tom Craig]

Crush them ass fell. Crush him before the posse gets here. I ain't going to get sh. It's too late. These ma. Drop your guns. You're all under arrest. This is Batman's gang. All right. The whole bunch. You there, Master fella. Get your hands up too. You're in with this bunch. All right. Ch. Come on. Get him out. Stop. Shoot him. Bring him back. Oh, shoot. Sheriff. I told you that was a lone ranger. Don't you see what he's done? He pretended to be a crook just to find where Bat was. And he found out in the only way possible by letting two Gun lead him here. Save your shots and start looking for the money Bat took from my bank. Sam.

[Limu Emu]

Limu Emu and Doug.

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[Tom Craig]

Uh, Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us.

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[Sarah]

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[Tom Craig]

Sam.

[The Lone Ranger]

The story you have just heard is a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated.

[Andrew Rines (Host of Old Time Radio Westerns)]

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 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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

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Well yeah, we're talking about what I.

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[Tom Craig]

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[Limu Emu]

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