Special Delivery | The Lone Ranger (08-21-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: Special Delivery | The Lone Ranger (08-21-50)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: March 6, 2025

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Introduction

In this captivating episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with a digitally restored rendition of The Lone Ranger. This special delivery episode, originally aired on August 21, 1950, immerses the audience in a thrilling adventure set in the untamed frontier, showcasing the timeless tales of the legendary masked ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto.

Plot Overview

The episode unfolds in the small town of Broken Bow, where Hank Webster manages both the general store and the post office. Tension brews as Hank becomes increasingly uneasy over the delayed delivery of important mail from Virginia City. The story deepens with the introduction of Bobby Webster, Hank's ten-year-old grandson, who becomes entwined in local intrigues involving a significant shipment of jewels intended to finance the completion of a new railroad.

Key Events and Discussions

1. The Mysterious Messenger Arrives ([07:16] - [08:28])

   Hank Webster anxiously awaits the messenger responsible for delivering a letter containing instructions on transporting a million dollars' worth of jewels. As the town remains unaware of the impending risk, the arrival of a stranger on a white horse, named Chief, ignites suspicions and sets the stage for the unfolding drama.

   Hank Webster (08:33): "I'll tend this up there. The jewels have been hidden in my store for the last week."

2. Bobby's Encounter and the Conspiracy Unveiled ([09:59] - [13:30])

   Bobby Webster's innocent curiosity leads him to interact with the mysterious messenger, inadvertently exposing a nefarious plot orchestrated by two crooks, Slick and Baxter. The plan involves stealing the essential letter from Hank's safe, framing Idaho—Hank's trusted employee—for the theft, and subsequently killing him to cover their tracks.

   Messenger (11:12): "That letter will likely be locked in Webster's safe. Now, you wait around until the store is closed. Then get inside and bust open the safe."

3. Bobby's Struggle and Rescue ([13:17] - [21:05])

   After attempting to apprehend the runaway horse, Bobby suffers a severe fall, leaving him unconscious and vulnerable. The Lone Ranger, accompanied by his horse Silver, discovers Bobby and tends to his injuries. Through gradual communication, Bobby reveals the conspirators' scheme, setting the stage for the Ranger's intervention.

   Bobby Webster (19:58): "My name's Bob. Bob Webster."

4. Confrontation at the Cafe ([22:48] - [26:05])

   Armed with the stolen letter and cash, Bobby confronts Hank Webster, unveiling Slick and Baxter's plot. The tension escalates when the masked Ranger intervenes during a gunfight at the local cafe, skillfully disarming the crooks and ensuring Idaho's safety. The Ranger's swift actions exemplify his unwavering commitment to justice.

   Bobby Webster (26:05): "We may find the proof in your pocket. What makes you think so?"

5. Resolution and Revelation ([27:01] - [28:35])

   With Slick and Baxter apprehended, peace returns to Broken Bow. Hank Webster expresses his relief, acknowledging the Ranger's pivotal role in safeguarding the town and ensuring the successful delivery of the jewels. The episode concludes with the revelation of the Lone Ranger's true identity, solidifying his status as Broken Bow's silent guardian.

   Hank Webster (28:35): "You should know, Idaho. You've been bragging to Bobby how he saved your life so many times. He's the Lone Ranger."

Character Highlights

• The Lone Ranger (Bobby Webster): Portrayed with heroic finesse by Brace Beamer, the Lone Ranger embodies justice and courage, seamlessly blending action with moral integrity.

• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal Indian companion, Tonto, provides unwavering support and wisdom, enriching the narrative with his resourcefulness.

• Hank Webster: As the store and postmaster, Hank represents the everyman caught in the web of larger schemes, driven by a sense of duty and concern for his family.

• Bobby Webster: The young grandson whose bravery and innocence serve as the catalyst for uncovering the plot against Broken Bow.

• Slick and Baxter: The antagonists whose greed and cunning threaten the town's peace, ultimately thwarted by the Ranger's intervention.

Notable Quotes

• Hank Webster ([08:33]): "I'll tend this up there. The jewels have been hidden in my store for the last week."

• Messenger ([11:12]): "That letter will likely be locked in Webster's safe. Now, you wait around until the store is closed. Then get inside and bust open the safe."

• Bobby Webster ([19:58]): "My name's Bob. Bob Webster."

• Hank Webster ([28:35]): "You should know, Idaho. You've been bragging to Bobby how he saved your life so many times. He's the Lone Ranger."

Conclusion

This episode of The Old Time Radio Westerns masterfully blends suspense, action, and heartfelt moments, breathing new life into the cherished legacy of The Lone Ranger. Through Andrew Rhynes' expert narration and the meticulous digital restoration, listeners are treated to an immersive experience that honors the rich storytelling traditions of the Wild West. Whether revisiting old favorites or discovering them anew, this podcast episode stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic Western dramas.

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About the Podcast

Old Time Radio Westerns is dedicated to preserving and revitalizing classic Western radio dramas. Hosted by Andrew Rhynes, each digitally restored episode offers enhanced audio quality, delivering rich soundscapes that bring the stories and characters to vivid life. The podcast pays homage to iconic shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, providing over 80 episodes monthly for enthusiasts and new listeners alike.

Connect with Us

• Website: otrwesterns.com
• Facebook: otrwesterns.com/Facebook
• YouTube: otrwesterns.com/YouTube
• Email: [e-mail]
• Phone: [phone]

Join our community of ranch hands and unlock exclusive content by subscribing through our platforms. Your support helps us continue to deliver high-quality Western adventures.

Copyright

This episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike License. For more information, visit otrwesterns.com/copyright.

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Thank you for tuning into the Old Time Radio Westerns. Saddle up and enjoy your journey back to the Wild West!

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Scientist]

No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Narrator]

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

[Scientist]

I mean, even if you took the.

[Bobby Webster]

Clam out for the best day ever.

[Narrator]

Visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride.

[Scientist]

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 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 hi O. Silver the Lone Ranger.

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With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, 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 the greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the Great Horse.

[Bobby Webster]

Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger writhes again.

[Bobby Webster]

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

[Narrator]

Are you Silver Hoy? Hank Webster ran the general store in Broken Bow. He also ran the post office in one corner of his store. His duties as postmaster took but little of his time because the stagecoach came in only once a week to deliver the mail in a small pouch and pick up outgoing mail, if any. Frequently, because of hold ups, letters bound for the east didn't go beyond the badlands that began at the edge of town. For three days, Hank had been increasingly uneasy. He paced the floor from the front door of the store through the living quarters in the rear, and every few Minutes he would go to the front porch where his 10 year old grandson sat listening to the tall tales of Hank's old friend called Idaho.

[Idaho]

Make some life Hank.

[Hank Webster]

Idaho. Have you seen anything of it?

[Idaho]

Was stranger in town?

[Hank Webster]

Yeah.

[Idaho]

No, dad. Rattit. Hank, you asked that a half hour ago and a half hour before that. Now me and Bobby told you that we'd let you know if we'd seen anyone.

[Bobby]

Randy, you keep busting in on the story Idaho's telling me.

[Hank Webster]

What lie are you telling the youngster this time, Idaho?

[Idaho]

Tain't no lie. It's about the time the Lone Ranger whipped a whole army of outlaws.

[Hank Webster]

Another Lone Ranger yarn.

[Bobby]

And I want to hear the rest of it. Idaho.

[Idaho]

Just a minute Bobby. Just a minute. Hank, what makes the man you're looking for so all fired important? Who is he? Where's he coming from?

[Hank Webster]

Virginia City.

[Idaho]

Well does that make him important?

[Hank Webster]

No, but J. Stuart Hamilton does.

[Bobby]

I've heard of him.

[Hank Webster]

I reckon you have. Bobby Hamilton's one of the biggest men in these parts, isn't he?

[Idaho]

The man who's back in the new railroad?

[Hank Webster]

Yep.

[Idaho]

Most every night while I'm working in the cafe, I hear someone talking about Mr. Hamilton and Hank. I understand Hamilton sending a million dollars worth of jewels to St. Joe.

[Hank Webster]

Where'd you hear that?

[Idaho]

For sakes of life, Hank, don't jump a man's head.

[Hank Webster]

Where'd you hear about the jewels?

[Idaho]

In the cafe. It's general talk that Mr. Hamilton aims to sell his wife's jewels so he can raise the cash to finish that railroad that he's interested in.

[Hank Webster]

I hope that'll be kept secret.

[Idaho]

Not much secret about it. Everyone's wondering where he'll sell a million.

[Hank Webster]

Dollars worth of jewels. It ain't that much but it's a lot of jewelry, Hank.

[Idaho]

He'll have to sell him in an eastern city, won't he?

[Hank Webster]

Yep.

[Idaho]

And Virginia City's west of here. That means he'll have to send him through this town.

[Hank Webster]

Sure he will. That's just why I'm so worried.

[Idaho]

There'll be no chance for crooks to steal them between Virginia City and here.

[Hank Webster]

No.

[Idaho]

But after they leave here they'll have to be taken across the Badlands. No matter where they're going, that's going to be downright risky.

[Hank Webster]

Don't I know it. Gone. I wish that messenger would get here.

[Idaho]

He's bringing the jewels.

[Hank Webster]

No at all. I'll tend this up there. The jewels have been hidden in my store for the last week.

[Idaho]

Sakes a liar.

[Hank Webster]

I've been waiting word as to what I should do with him.

[Idaho]

Why don't Hamilton let you know?

[Hank Webster]

Well, he's got to find out where to send him. Where he can sell them. He's waiting to hear from Several agents in St. John, Omaha and other places. As soon as he hears, he'll send a messenger to me. And I sure wish he'd come.

[Bobby]

Idaho, you were telling me how the Lone Ranger saved your life when you were up against a gang of outlaws.

[Hank Webster]

Yes.

[Bobby]

They were shooting at you from all directions when you heard hoofbeats coming fast.

[Bobby Webster]

Yeah.

[Bobby]

You looked up and saw a big white horse charging down the hill.

[Hank Webster]

There he is. Here comes the messenger. See that stranger on the white horse?

[Idaho]

Oh, yeah.

[Bobby]

Ollie, that horse looks like. Oh, Ryder isn't mad. Guess it couldn't be the Lone Ranger.

[Hank Webster]

Yeah. Stranger, you're looking for me.

[Bobby Webster]

I don't know whether I'm looking for you or not.

[Hank Webster]

You don't know. Shakes your life. If you don't know, who does?

[Bobby Webster]

I'm looking for Hank Webster.

[Hank Webster]

Hey, that's me. That's me. Can't you see the sign there on my store?

[Bobby]

Hey, mister, what's your horse's name?

[Bobby Webster]

Horse's name?

[Messenger]

I call him Chief.

[Hank Webster]

Why?

[Bobby]

I'd call him Silver if I owned him.

[Messenger]

You wouldn't like the Lone Ranger?

[Bobby]

You know the Lone Ranger?

[Messenger]

Nope. I wish I did.

[Bobby]

Idaho knows him. Don't you, Idaho?

[Hank Webster]

Well, Idaho don't know him any more than I do. Well, we'll get to business. You got something for me?

[Messenger]

Yeah. We'll go inside the store.

[Hank Webster]

Yep.

[Messenger]

I'd like a witness to sign the receipt. Would you step inside, too, Idaho?

[Idaho]

I sure think.

[Narrator]

Hurry back.

[Bobby]

I don't want to finish your story.

[Bobby Webster]

All right.

[Idaho]

Bobby.

[Messenger]

I came from Mr. Hamilton in Virginia City. I guess you've been expecting me.

[Hank Webster]

I sure have. And I'm glad you got here. Are you going to take the jewels?

[Bobby Webster]

Careful.

[Hank Webster]

That's all right. I can trust Idaho with my life.

[Bobby Webster]

Hope so.

[Messenger]

To answer your question, no. The man who's going to take them will be here today or tomorrow.

[Hank Webster]

Does he know whether to go?

[Messenger]

It's contained in this letter. He'll be riding a white horse and.

[Bobby Webster]

He'Ll be wearing a mask.

[Idaho]

A mask?

[Messenger]

Yep. He'll identify himself by showing you a silver bullet.

[Idaho]

Great day.

[Messenger]

You seem to know who I mean.

[Idaho]

The Lone Ranger.

[Messenger]

Yep. He's the one man who could be trusted on a mission like this. You'll see that those jewels get across the Badlands safely. Just give him this letter. It has all the information he'll need as to where they're to go.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, Bobby was wide eyed as he left the porch and stood beside the messenger's white horse. To the boy, it resembled the horse of the Lone Ranger.

[Bobby]

I won't hurt you. I just want to scratch your neck. I'd sure call you Silver if you were my horse. Silver. Oh, boy. Now stand still, Silver. I'll put the reins over your head where they belong. There. Wonder if I can get to that saddle. Steady, Silver. There. Oh, golly, this is a fine saddle. I owe Silver. I owe Silver.

[Bobby Webster]

Away.

[Hank Webster]

A horse. Bobby. It's Bobby.

[Idaho]

The horse is running away.

[Hank Webster]

Come back.

[Narrator]

Come back.

[Hank Webster]

That horse is wild. Hang on, Bobby. Hang on. Don't fall.

[Idaho]

He's a runaway.

[Hank Webster]

Come back here.

[Bobby Webster]

We gotta get after him.

[Hank Webster]

Let the ho get horses.

[Idaho]

I'll get him.

[Hank Webster]

I'll help you, sir. Let me borrow a horse.

[Narrator]

Bobby made a brave effort to stay in the saddle. The stirrups were out of reach. But he clung to the white mane of the runaway horse for several minutes. Then his fingers became numb. His frenzied grip on the horse's mane relaxed. He was pitched off to fall in a dense thicket at the bottom of an arroyo that paralleled the trail. He lay there motionless, while the messenger's horse continued along the route toward Virginia City. When Bobby regained consciousness, he heard men's voices at the top of the arroyo. The boy couldn't see the speakers and he was too weak to leave the place where he lay.

[Messenger]

I know how we can get the Hamilton jewels that are being sent east. Only trouble is, we don't know who's.

[Bobby Webster]

Going to carry him.

[Messenger]

Or what direction he'll be heading or when he'll go. I know how to find the answer to both questions.

[Bobby Webster]

How?

[Messenger]

I got my information from a gent who works for Hamilton in Virginia City. You see, Hamilton has put all the instructions in a letter to the postmaster at Broken Bull. All we've got to do is get that letter.

[Bobby Webster]

How can we get it?

[Messenger]

Steal it from the post office? Listen, Slick. An old galoot named Webster runs the post office in connection with his store. Shouldn't be hard to find the letter. Only thing is, we've got to act fast before the jewels leave Broken Bowl.

[Bobby Webster]

When Webster learns that the letter's gone, he'll tell Hamilton it was stolen. The plans will be changed. I don't know.

[Messenger]

I got it all worked out. That letter will likely be locked in Webster's safe. Now, you wait around until the store is closed. Then get inside and Bust open the safe. You're good at that.

[Bobby Webster]

I can crack most any safe that's made.

[Messenger]

Bust the safe and take whatever cash there is in it, as well as the letter. Then make a copy of the letter. When we know how the jewels are being sent across the Badlands, it'll be easy to get them.

[Bobby Webster]

All right.

[Messenger]

I copy the letter after taking it and the cash from the safe. Then what? And take the letter and the cash to the living quarters behind the store. A man named Idaho sleeps in a small bedroom. Tuck the cash and the letter under Idaho's mattress and join me at the cafe.

[Bobby Webster]

You'll be waiting?

[Messenger]

Yeah. Idaho works there. We start a fight, and Idaho gets killed. Accidentally.

[Bobby Webster]

Now, wait a minute. I don't like Nixon murder into this.

[Messenger]

It'll be called an accident. We'll see to that. What then? Webster finds his money and the letter gone. Later, he finds that same beneath Idaho's mattress and thinks the old man stole it. Now, I savvy your scheme, Baxter. Idaho being dead, he can't deny stealing.

[Bobby Webster]

The letter in the cash.

[Messenger]

Of course he can't. And Webster, figuring Idaho's the only one who saw the instructions for sending the Hamilton Jewels won't have any reason to change the plan. Baxter, I have to hand it to you.

[Bobby Webster]

You sure worked it out good.

[Messenger]

You might have known I had a good scheme when I sent for you.

[Bobby Webster]

But I didn't think it'd be this good.

[Messenger]

Now you go over to the post office, wait around till the store's closed and get started on your part of the job.

[Bobby Webster]

All right, Baxter. I'm on my way.

[Messenger]

I'll meet you later in the cafe.

[Bobby Webster]

Get it. Get it.

[Narrator]

The boy lying at the bottom of the arroyo tried to move out of the brushwood. He had heard every word of the conspirators. He sobbed in pain and anger.

[Bobby]

Crook. Dirty crook. I gotta get away from here.

[Narrator]

The weak and dazed Bobby tried to stand. He clutched the bushes for support. As he gained his feet. Fierce pain shot from his ankle. It was more than he could endure. Unconscious for the second time, the brave lad slumped to the ground. It was sunset when Bobby again opened his eyes. He found himself in a woodland camp near a small stream. Before he could speak, he heard the low voice of a man who sat beside him. A masked man.

[Bobby Webster]

Take it easy. You've had a bad fall.

[Bobby]

Who are you?

[Bobby Webster]

Come over here. Toto. He's awake.

[Bobby]

You're mad.

[Messenger]

How Aunt feel.

[Bobby Webster]

Toto bandaged your head. Bad bump. That hurt, huh?

[Bobby]

Thought it was my ankle.

[Bobby Webster]

Your ankle's Badly sprained.

[Narrator]

You'll be all right.

[Messenger]

Two or three days.

[Bobby]

Where am I?

[Bobby Webster]

We found you near the trail. Were you thrown from your horse? Yeah.

[Bobby]

Where am I now?

[Bobby Webster]

A few hundred yards from where you fell. We needed water, so we brought you here.

[Bobby]

Now I remember. You two were talking.

[Bobby Webster]

Oh, so you heard us. We thought you were unconscious.

[Bobby]

You bet I heard you.

[Bobby Webster]

Hold on. Hold on.

[Bobby]

I know all about your plane.

[Bobby Webster]

No. No, you're not get up yet.

[Bobby]

You can't keep me here.

[Narrator]

You murderers.

[Bobby Webster]

Steady, son. Steady. Now you see, you're not strong enough to get up. Oh, you tell me. Tell me. Why did you call us murderers?

[Bobby]

I heard you planning to kill my friend who robbed Grandpa.

[Bobby Webster]

Who is your grandpa?

[Bobby]

I won't kill you.

[Bobby Webster]

What's your name?

[Bobby]

I won't kill you thing. I'll get away from here somehow.

[Bobby Webster]

Listen to me.

[Bobby]

Why should I?

[Bobby Webster]

Because you've made a mistake.

[Bobby]

I know what I heard.

[Bobby Webster]

You couldn't possibly have heard anything to make you think we're murderers.

[Bobby]

One of you is called Slick, and the other Baxter. He met on the trail from Virginia City.

[Bobby Webster]

Did those men sound like us?

[Bobby]

I don't remember.

[Bobby Webster]

Please. Please tell us who you are. It's important. I'm unconscious again. Toto, you heard what he said. Men called Slick and Baxter are planning murder. We must win the lad's confidence and learn who he is before it's too.

[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.

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Now to continue. After the messenger's white horse had been found riderless, there had been a long and fruitless search for Bobby. At sunset, the messenger rode back toward Virginia City. Hank and Idaho returned to town. Idaho went to the house and waited while Hank asked the sheriff to send men in Search of the missing boy. The old storekeeper was exhausted when he joined Idaho at the store.

[Hank Webster]

Any word, Idaho? No.

[Idaho]

What did the sheriff say, Hank?

[Hank Webster]

Well, he'll put two of his best men on the tracks of that horse.

[Idaho]

Did you tell him we'd already followed the tracks?

[Hank Webster]

Yep. He said Bobby had to leave the saddle somewhere. It's just a case of finding where and following the tracks. Well, Idaho, you may as well go. There's nothing you can do here. I hate to leave you here alone. I don't mind being alone. You've got your job.

[Idaho]

Yes, I reckon so.

[Narrator]

Toto went to town for a doctor, but found there was none available. He returned as darkness gathered over the Lone Rangers camp. The masked man had given first aid and Bobby lay in a coma. From time to time, his lips moved. His voice was barely audible.

[Bobby]

Get help.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger leaned close, trying to catch a word that would tell something about the boy's identity.

[Bobby Webster]

Can you hear me? Maybe we take boy to town.

[Messenger]

Maybe someone know him.

[Bobby Webster]

No, Toto. He's too ill to be moved. Wait, wait. He's trying to speak.

[Bobby]

Silver.

[Bobby Webster]

Silver.

[Bobby]

Silver.

[Messenger]

Oh.

[Bobby]

Where's the ranger, Flabby?

[Hank Webster]

Oh, no.

[Bobby Webster]

Can you hear me, son?

[Narrator]

Bobby said no more. He lay motionless and silent. The minutes dragged heavily while the masked man and Toto watched the lad's pale face in the flickering light of a small, well concealed fire. Presently, the boy's eyelids moved.

[Bobby Webster]

Otto, I think he's regaining consciousness. It looked that way. If we could only learn something about him. You have help. We're here to help you. Can you understand what I'm saying? Now listen to me before you try to speak. You were talking about a horse named Silver.

[Bobby]

Silver.

[Bobby Webster]

We're not outlaws, lad. We're going to help you fight the outlaws. My horse's name's Silver.

[Bobby]

Silver? You're the Lone Ranger.

[Bobby Webster]

He's getting stronger, Tuttle. Let me prove I'm telling the truth.

[Bobby]

The horse needs Silver.

[Bobby Webster]

He's waiting. Now tell me, who are you?

[Bobby]

My name's Bob. Bob Webster.

[Bobby Webster]

Bob Webster. Your grandfather's Hank Webster?

[Bobby]

Yes.

[Idaho]

They're gonna rob him, Bobby.

[Bobby Webster]

You overheard men talking, remember?

[Bobby]

Yes, I remember.

[Bobby Webster]

I must know everything those men said.

[Narrator]

Hank Webster had been pacing the floor impatiently while he waited in the slender hope that one of the sheriff's men would bring word of his grandson. Presently, he heard a horse stop in the rear of his home.

[Hank Webster]

Why are they stuffing him back?

[Narrator]

He waited, listening, then started toward the rear. Curious, he opened the door to Idaho's room, then fell back in surprise.

[Bobby Webster]

Bobby Sent me.

[Hank Webster]

Bobby, where is he? What's happened to him? Tell me. What do you know about the boy?

[Bobby Webster]

Going to be all right, but he's in my camp. He's had a bad fall. There was a slight concussion. And I thought it better to keep him in camp until morning.

[Hank Webster]

Where's your camp? Why couldn't we find tracks?

[Bobby Webster]

Daddy. Webster, look at this money. I mean this letter.

[Hank Webster]

Where'd you get that money?

[Bobby Webster]

The letter's more important than the money. It's from Hamilton. Here, See for yourself.

[Hank Webster]

Where'd you get that?

[Bobby Webster]

It was beneath the pillow on Idaho's bed. Oh, no.

[Hank Webster]

I don't believe that. Not Idaho. Give me that letter.

[Bobby Webster]

Now, wait.

[Hank Webster]

That letter was in my safe.

[Bobby Webster]

Do you know a man named Baxter? No. I'd never heard him or anyone who's called Slick.

[Hank Webster]

No, no. I want to know about it.

[Bobby Webster]

They're the ones who stole this letter. They put it under Idaho's pillow so he'd get the blame. Now, where is Idaho?

[Hank Webster]

Oh, she here. How do I know you're telling the truth? How do I know you're not the one who busted the sheath?

[Bobby Webster]

The letter tells you about the man who will carry the jewels from here. Yeah, but he's to identify himself with a silver bullet.

[Hank Webster]

Inch.

[Bobby Webster]

Here's the bullet.

[Hank Webster]

Great cheeks. Alive, you mean to say.

[Bobby Webster]

Now, tell me where Idaho went. Is he out looking for the boy?

[Hank Webster]

No, no. He's going to work as usual. He went to the cafe.

[Bobby Webster]

That's where Slick and Baxter plan to kill him. Kill Idaho, Find the sheriff or a deputy or anyone with authority. And come to the cafe at once. I'll go ahead and hope I'm not too late.

[Hank Webster]

But wait. That's letter.

[Bobby Webster]

I'll take the letter with me.

[Narrator]

Baxter and the man called Slick stood just outside the cafe. They glanced through the doors long enough to locate old Idaho near the rear of the large room. He was waiting on a table.

[Messenger]

You see him? Slick?

[Bobby Webster]

Yeah.

[Messenger]

I'll go in and start talking to him.

[Bobby Webster]

See, we've been over this scheme before.

[Messenger]

We're going over it again so you don't make any mistake. I'll go in and start talking to him. You come along and bump into me. Sammy.

[Bobby Webster]

Yeah. Then you get sore about it, Right?

[Messenger]

We start an argument that leads to drawing our guns.

[Bobby Webster]

I know.

[Messenger]

When men in the cafe see gunplay start, they'll duck for cover. There'll be plenty of confusion, during which some bullets will fly wild. One will hit Idaho.

[Bobby Webster]

You'll see to that?

[Messenger]

Yeah.

[Bobby Webster]

All right. Let's get it over with the wind. Start talking to Idaho.

[Idaho]

Evening, mister.

[Messenger]

Got a vacant table at this side of the place.

[Idaho]

Well, now, I can maybe give you one in a few minutes. The chance over yonder are most through.

[Messenger]

Well, I guess I can wait.

[Hank Webster]

Hey.

[Bobby Webster]

Hey.

[Messenger]

Where are you going?

[Bobby Webster]

I want a table.

[Messenger]

You needn't try to bump me out of the place to get it.

[Bobby Webster]

Who says I bumped?

[Idaho]

I do. You're alive. Please, Chance.

[Messenger]

Wait a minute. Who you calling a liar? My son? You said that right to my face. A man don't live who can call me a liar and get away with it. You take that back. You're spoiling for a fight.

[Idaho]

Please.

[Bobby Webster]

Please, James.

[Idaho]

There's no need to fight. This here's a peaceful place.

[Messenger]

You shut up. I'm not spoiling for a fight, mister. Well, I won't take being called that by you. You take back what you said.

[Bobby Webster]

Get your hand off your gun.

[Messenger]

Take it back. Start that draw and I'll slap Levy.

[Bobby Webster]

That's a dare. Then take it. I know.

[Hank Webster]

Come here. Who's that? He's master.

[Messenger]

I'll take your dare.

[Narrator]

Slick's gun came out and a bullet hit the the big lamp near the ceiling. There was a bedlam of confusion as men scrambled over chairs and tables to find safety from gunplay. The Lone Ranger couldn't use his gun because old Idaho was in the line of fire. Acting with lightning speed, he dashed forward, dived over a table and grabbed the old man's legs. Idaho went down fast and the bullet split the air right where his head had been.

[Idaho]

Let go of me. Let me up.

[Bobby Webster]

Get him.

[Bobby]

Get him.

[Hank Webster]

Get him.

[Messenger]

Let's don't do it.

[Narrator]

Baxter fired at the two men on the floor. The bullet tugged the master. The Lone Ranger rolled to the side as he brought up a gun. Two shots found their marks. One struck Baxter's gun. The other broke Slick's wrist. The masked man leaped to his feet with guns drawn.

[Bobby Webster]

If there's any more gunplay, I'll be the one who makes it.

[Idaho]

My arm.

[Bobby Webster]

My arm is smashed. You, Idaho, get up. All the rest of you, stand where you are.

[Idaho]

See here?

[Hank Webster]

What's the idea of starting this Rocket, Idaho.

[Narrator]

What happened anyhow?

[Idaho]

Gosh, bosh, I. I don't rightly know. These two started jarring at each other and it led to gunplay. Then this last man come in like a tornado and knock me down.

[Hank Webster]

My arm.

[Bobby Webster]

Is your name Baxter?

[Idaho]

No.

[Bobby Webster]

Then they call you Slick. You must be Baxter.

[Hank Webster]

Whatever. Anywho. You all right, Hank?

[Idaho]

Things happen here.

[Hank Webster]

He's the sheriff and the deputies? I found him just starting out on a little search for Bobby. Hank told me about you, mister.

[Bobby Webster]

That saves explanation of my mask.

[Hank Webster]

I told the sheriff I'd been robbed.

[Bobby Webster]

Here are your men, Sheriff. Slick and Baxter.

[Messenger]

What's that?

[Bobby Webster]

You rob Webster's safe. That's not true. You can't prove that.

[Hank Webster]

Where'd you get that idea?

[Bobby Webster]

An important letter and a sum of money were stolen from Webster. Isn't that right, Webster?

[Hank Webster]

Yes.

[Bobby Webster]

Well, you can't say we did it.

[Hank Webster]

What's your proof?

[Bobby Webster]

We may find the proof in your pocket. What makes you think so? Stand still. I'll see for myself. A sheriff. This is a downright insulting way to treat strangers in town.

[Hank Webster]

Here.

[Bobby Webster]

What's this? Some kind of message, isn't it? Better look at it.

[Hank Webster]

Dank, eh? That's your copy of the message to me. That's what it is.

[Bobby Webster]

Here's the original, Sheriff. You might compare the two and keep the information confidential.

[Hank Webster]

Now you, Stephen Cold cat, you can't deny opening my safe. How else could you get that information? I.

[Bobby Webster]

How about you, Baxter? Did you go with Slick to rob the safe? No, of course not. I was right here in the cafe at the time. At what time? How do you know what time the robbery took place?

[Messenger]

You were in on it.

[Bobby Webster]

And that proves it was your idea, Baxter. It was all your idea. You're in as deep as I am.

[Hank Webster]

Shut up.

[Bobby Webster]

I won't take the rap alone.

[Messenger]

You got me into this deal.

[Bobby Webster]

I have enough to lock you both up. That will do for a start, Sheriff. When you check your hand bills, you may find these two warrant for some other hold ups in the Badlands.

[Narrator]

Come on you crooks.

[Messenger]

Get going.

[Idaho]

Well, Poppy, I never seen the like of it. That masked man snapped them two shots from the door of the cafe. And both of them went straight to the lot.

[Bobby]

Golly. That was sure fine shooting, London.

[Idaho]

I heard it sure was.

[Bobby]

And are Slick and Baxter in jail now?

[Hank Webster]

Yeah.

[Idaho]

We took him there last night before the mask man brought us to where you were sleeping. Then we brought you home.

[Hank Webster]

You feeling all right, Bubba?

[Bobby]

I'm all right now, Grandpa.

[Hank Webster]

Well, I'll sit here in the ports with you for a mite. I sure feel relieved that the Hamilton shoes are off of mine.

[Idaho]

Off your mind. How's that, Hanks?

[Hank Webster]

They've been hid under the floor for the past week. That's why I've been so worried. I was fit to be tied waiting for word as to how I was to send a niece through here.

[Idaho]

And now you've sent them?

[Hank Webster]

Yep. According to the instructions that came yesterday, the letter said I was to turn them over to the masked man who showed me a silver bullet.

[Idaho]

He's the one who saved my life.

[Hank Webster]

The same the one who found me. That's right, Bubby. By now he's halfway across the Badlands, and I reckon Hamilton can just relax and feel sure he'll get his cash to finish the railroad.

[Idaho]

Hank, who in tarnation is that mask man?

[Hank Webster]

You should know, Idaho. You've been bragging to Bobby how he saved your life so many times. He's the Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

Bring along an American Express card to open the door to rewards wherever you go. Morning coffee run with an old friend. Earn cash back. Weekend getaway. Earn miles Dinner at the hottest restaurant in town. You get the idea no matter the place or the plan. AMEX rewards your inner explorer. See if you pre qualify for an American Express card with no impact on your credit score. Learn [e-mail] Check 4 offers your credit score may be impacted if you accept a card. Terms apply.

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

[Scientist]

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 ot trwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Narrator]

Bring along an American Express card to open the door to rewards wherever you go. Morning coffee run with an old friend. Earn cash back Weekend getaway Earn miles Dinner at the hottest restaurant in town. You get the idea no matter the place, place or the plan. AMEX rewards your inner explorer. See if you pre qualify for an American Express card with no impact on your credit score. Learn [e-mail] check 4 offers. Your credit score may be impacted if you accept a card. Terms apply.