Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast – Episode Summary: "Stage Line Robberies | The Lone Ranger (12-06-39)"

Release Date: April 6, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhines

Introduction

In this captivating episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhines presents a digitally restored classic Lone Ranger adventure titled "Stage Line Robberies." This episode transports listeners back to the Wild West's golden age, showcasing the Lone Ranger's relentless pursuit of justice amidst a series of mysterious stagecoach robberies threatening the stability of Chatfield—a once-thriving town now on the brink of bankruptcy.

Plot Overview

A Town in Peril

The story unfolds with Chatfield beleaguered by a rash of well-executed stagecoach robberies over several months. These heists have decimated the town's economy, pushing merchants to the edge of financial ruin. Dan Crocker, the stage line's division manager, grapples with the mounting pressure to identify and halt the bandits responsible.

Dan Crocker:

"There's never a stage held up Lesson that's carrying dust or cash." [07:36]

This line underscores the peculiar pattern behind the robberies—only stages carrying cash or valuable cargo are targeted, suggesting insider knowledge aiding the outlaws.

The Arrival of a Mysterious Stranger

Amidst growing tensions, Mr. Elliot, the owner of the stage line, arrives unexpectedly from the east. His sudden appearance raises suspicions, especially given the gravity of the situation.

Mr. Elliot:

"I sent no word on purpose." [05:40]

His terse admission hints at underlying motives, prompting Crocker to seek a private conversation to address the mounting crisis.

Introducing Ace Devlin

Crocker introduces Ace Devlin, a seasoned investigator with a formidable reputation from his days at Wells Fargo. Devlin's expertise becomes a beacon of hope for resolving the stagecoach robberies.

Dan Crocker:

"He knows his business. Used to work for Wells Fargo." [08:37]

Devlin quickly assesses the situation, proposing that Gus Hastings, the local café owner, might be the linchpin in the robbery scheme. His hypothesis revolves around Hastings having the means and motive to informate the robbers about cash shipments.

The Lone Ranger Enters the Fray

As tensions escalate, the Lone Ranger—alias Dan Crocker—arrives in Chatfield, disguised and determined to uncover the truth. His keen instincts lead him to the café, where a confrontation unfolds.

Lone Ranger:

"If that mask on Brie riding it ain't one of them holed up men, then my name ain't Dan Crocker." [11:15]

This declaration not only reveals his true identity but also cements his role as the town's savior against the pervasive threat.

A Deceptive Confrontation

In the café, Hastings is apprehended under the suspicion of murdering Ace Devlin. However, the Lone Ranger discerns inconsistencies in the evidence surrounding the murder, particularly the lack of a plausible escape method for Hastings after the alleged shooting.

Lone Ranger:

"If he had enough presence of mind for that, why didn't he follow his gun through the window and make his escape?" [16:32]

This revelation propels the Lone Ranger to delve deeper, challenging the town's precarious trust in Hastings.

Unmasking the True Culprit

The Lone Ranger's meticulous investigation leads him to suspect Limpy, a seemingly inept handyman whose actions belie a cunning criminal mastermind. A climactic showdown ensues, where Limpy's deceit is laid bare, revealing his orchestration of the robberies to deflect blame onto Hastings.

Limpy:

"We never meet on the stage is gonna carry cash." [23:59]

His cryptic admission further implicates him in the sophisticated scheme controlling Chatfield's fate.

Justice Restored

In the final confrontation, the Lone Ranger exposes Limpy's duplicity, ensuring that justice prevails. The episode concludes with the restoration of peace to Chatfield, as the Lone Ranger reasserts his unwavering commitment to safeguarding the innocent.

Lone Ranger:

"We don't have to prove anything. You've talked enough to convict yourself a dozen times over." [26:37]

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger:

  "Come on, Silver. We're heading south for Chatfield." [03:11]

• Dan Crocker:

  "There's never a stage held up Lesson that's carrying dust or cash." [07:36]

• Ace Devlin:

  "But I'm glad you come here." [08:28]

• Limpy:

  "We never meet on the stage is gonna carry cash." [23:59]

• Lone Ranger:

  "I won't say that he isn't. I will say, however, that I doubt that he is." [16:32]

• Dan Crocker:

  "There's never a stage held up Lesson that's carrying dust or cash." [07:36]

Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger (Dan Crocker): The steadfast hero dedicated to upholding justice in the Wild West.

• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal Native American companion, providing wisdom and unwavering support.

• Mr. Elliot: Owner of the stage line, whose mysterious arrival sets the stage for unraveling the robberies.

• Ace Devlin: A former Wells Fargo investigator brought in to solve the mounting crisis.

• Gus Hastings: Café owner suspected of leaking information to the robbers, later revealed to be innocent.

• Limpy: A seemingly naive handyman who masterminds the stagecoach robberies to protect his true motives.

Conclusion

"Stage Line Robberies" is a masterful blend of suspense, mystery, and heroism emblematic of the Lone Ranger saga. Through intricate plotting and richly developed characters, the episode delves into themes of trust, deception, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The digital restoration enhances the immersive experience, allowing modern audiences to appreciate the timeless storytelling that has made the Lone Ranger a beloved icon of American radio drama.

Listeners are left with a profound appreciation for the Lone Ranger's unwavering dedication to justice, reinforcing his status as the ultimate champion of the Wild West.