Episode Summary: "Smooth Larry’s Plan | The Lone Ranger (11-03-50)"

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: April 16, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "Smooth Larry’s Plan," listeners are transported back to the golden age of radio Westerns featuring the iconic hero, The Lone Ranger, and his faithful companion, Tonto. This digitally restored episode, originally aired on November 3, 1950, brings enhanced audio quality that immerses the audience in the thrilling adventures of the Wild West. Hosted by Andrew Rhynes, the episode showcases the timeless tale of justice, ingenuity, and the unyielding spirit of The Lone Ranger.

Arrival in Stockton

The story commences with The Lone Ranger and Tonto riding their trusty horse, Silver, as they approach the small town of Stockton. Disguised to resemble a cowpoke but still wearing his mask, The Lone Ranger is alerted to the town's turmoil.

• Narrator [03:06]: "The Lone Ranger and his Indian companion Tonto rode the trail southward from Pecos. The masked man had carefully disguised his features to resemble a cowpoke, though he still wore his mask."

Upon arrival, The Lone Ranger discusses the town's predicament with his companion, expressing concern over the terrorizing outlaw band that the local authorities have failed to apprehend.

• The Lone Ranger [03:24]: "Yes. The sooner the better. His message to our friend the marshal in Pecos. The Stockton sheriff said the whole territory was terrorized by an outlaw band. They haven't been able to track them down. That's not good."

Encounter with Smooth Larry

As The Lone Ranger strategizes to confront the outlaws, a confrontation unfolds with an unexpected villain, Smooth Larry—a notorious outlaw known for his cunning plans.

• The Lone Ranger [05:04] (Timestamp 05:04): "Smooth Larry, the most notorious outlaw in Arizona."

Smooth Larry reveals his trap, showcasing his manipulative prowess by capturing The Lone Ranger and Tonto, securing them in a camp with the intention of hijacking a gold shipment.

• Smooth Larry [05:43]: "I knew you'd follow me into the trap."

Capture and Sheriff's Investigation

With The Lone Ranger and Tonto captured, the plot thickens as Sheriff Hank Lynn from Pecos arrives in Stockton, seeking to aid in capturing the outlaw gang. Suspicious activities, including unusual firearms and gold shipments, raise alarms.

• Sheriff Marshall Lynn [07:03]: "Well after the mask man and the Indian set out for Stockton, I got to thinking I'd like to confess down here to help them and you round up that outlaw gang you sent me."

Sheriff Lynn's investigation leads him to question local gamblers and witnesses, uncovering Smooth Larry's elaborate scheme to rob the express stage carrying $10,000 in gold.

• Sheriff Lynn [08:19]: "I'd be willing to swear those are the Lone Ranger's special guns, Sheriff."

The Lone Ranger's Ingenious Plan

Despite being bound and facing imminent danger, The Lone Ranger devises a clever escape plan with Tonto's assistance. Utilizing Silver's strength, they manage to loosen their knots, setting the stage for a daring breakout.

• The Lone Ranger [13:27]: "I hope I can get my back against the wall and slide up in front of the window. I did it, Silver."

Their escape is meticulously planned, ensuring they remain undetected until the perfect moment to reverse the situation.

The Express Stage Trap

Smooth Larry, unaware of The Lone Ranger's ingenuity, proceeds with his plan to hijack the express stage. He believes he has outsmarted the masked hero, confidently anticipating the capture and demise of The Lone Ranger and Tonto.

• Smooth Larry [10:41]: "I'm shipping $10,000 on the express stage tomorrow to my bank and takers."

As the express stage departs, The Lone Ranger and Tonto subtly escape their bindings, positioning themselves to counter Smooth Larry's move.

• The Lone Ranger [16:32]: "Now, Todo, holding both guns on you. I'll keep him covered while you untie our feet."

The Final Showdown

The express stage arrives just as planned, but tension mounts as Smooth Larry's men attempt to seize The Lone Ranger and Tonto. However, the masked hero has prepared for this moment. With a strategic barrage of gunfire and the timely arrival of Sheriff Lynn with reinforcements, the outlaws find themselves overwhelmed.

• The Lone Ranger [19:21]: "About 10 or 12 more coming to help the law."

In the ensuing battle, The Lone Ranger and his allies swiftly neutralize the threat, capturing Smooth Larry and his gang.

• Sheriff Lynn [19:54]: "Well, we got them all. Thanks to your quick thinking, my friend."

The heroic efforts of Silver, the horse, are lauded as instrumental in turning the tide against the outlaws.

• The Lone Ranger [19:58]: "Marshall, the credit really should go to Silver. He's the one who helped us turn the tables on Smooth Larry."

Resolution and Farewell

With justice restored, The Lone Ranger and Tonto prepare to depart Stockton, leaving behind a town grateful for their bravery and cleverness. Sheriff Lynn acknowledges their contributions, and the heroes ride off into the sunset, ready for their next adventure.

• Sheriff Lynn [20:24]: "The law sure owes you a lot for what you've done to keep villains like these from blocking progress here in the west."

• The Lone Ranger [20:34]: "Thanks. Adios."

Notable Quotes

• The Lone Ranger [03:24] (Timestamp 03:24): "Yes. The sooner the better. His message to our friend the marshal in Pecos. The Stockton sheriff said the whole territory was terrorized by an outlaw band. They haven't been able to track them down. That's not good."

• Smooth Larry [05:43] (Timestamp 05:43): "I knew you'd follow me into the trap."

• Sheriff Marshall Lynn [08:19] (Timestamp 08:19): "I'd be willing to swear those are the Lone Ranger's special guns, Sheriff."

• The Lone Ranger [16:32] (Timestamp 16:32): "Now, Todo, holding both guns on you. I'll keep him covered while you untie our feet."

• The Lone Ranger [19:58] (Timestamp 19:58): "Marshall, the credit really should go to Silver. He's the one who helped us turn the tables on Smooth Larry."

Conclusion

"Smooth Larry’s Plan" exemplifies the classic elements that make Old Time Radio Westerns enduringly popular: heroism, strategic wit, and the ever-present battle between good and evil. Through digitally enhanced audio, Andrew Rhynes brings this timeless story to life, allowing both new listeners and longtime fans to relish The Lone Ranger's adventures with remarkable clarity and depth.

Note: This summary intentionally omits advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus solely on the narrative and key elements of the episode.