Stage Line Robberies | The Lone Ranger (12-06-39)

Summary

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

Release Date: April 6, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhines

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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.

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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]

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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]

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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.

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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.

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Transcript

[Stage Driver]

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 the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty Hio. Silver. The Lone Ranger.

[Dan Crocker]

It.

[Narrator]

No outlaw or road agent in the early western United States could match the courage and resourcefulness of the masked rat of the plains. With his faithful Indian companion Tonto, he led the fight for law and order in the new territory and in time brought peace and security to the frontier. No greater champion of justice can be found in the pages of history. Return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse. Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. We're heading south for Chatfield.

[Stage Driver]

Hi, Silver. Away.

[Narrator]

For several months a series of well planned stage robberies had taken place outside the town of Chatfield.

[Stage Driver]

All right mister.

[Limpy]

Now throw down that express box there beside you.

[Stage Driver]

Bastard crook. Say the talk. Don't reach for that shotgun either. We ain't carrying no cash this trip.

[Limpy]

No are different.

[Dan Crocker]

Now let's have it.

[Stage Driver]

You're the same two crooks held up my stage of four.

[Limpy]

And you're the fella said you wasn't carrying cash. Don't give us no argument this time, mister.

[Ace Devlin]

Or reliable.

[Stage Driver]

Let daylight through.

[Lone Ranger]

You.

[Stage Driver]

Say, do you fellas always know when I'm carrying cash? You ain't missed once and we don't aim to. Now on your way, fell. On your way. Get up. Get up. Get all that you can look for us the next time you got something worth.

[Narrator]

Finally a coach from the east bought a well dressed passenger about 50 years old. Ascending from the stage at Chatfield. He studied the crowd until he saw Dan Crocker, the stage line's division manager. The stranger walked toward him at once and Crocker.

[Dan Crocker]

Huh?

[Stage Driver]

Yes.

[Dan Crocker]

Huh. Well, great land Negotian. If it ain't Mr. Elliot.

[Stage Driver]

My gosh.

[Dan Crocker]

What you doing here?

[Mr. Elliot]

Where can we talk?

[Dan Crocker]

Private, you mean?

[Mr. Elliot]

Yes.

[Dan Crocker]

Well, I don't know any better place than my office.

[Ace Devlin]

But.

[Dan Crocker]

Say, what about your baggage? Can't I?

[Mr. Elliot]

Your driver will take it to the hotel. He knows who I am. You'll engage a room for me.

[Dan Crocker]

Oh, then that's all right. Come along. Why didn't you write you was coming? Mr. Elliot? My stars. I never had no least notion of this.

[Mr. Elliot]

I sent no word on purpose.

[Dan Crocker]

Oh, well, step in, Limby. That'll be enough for today, I reckon. Just leave the sweepins. Go and run along. I'll have Clem finish it.

[Narrator]

But I'm almost done.

[Dan Crocker]

You heard me. Vammoose?

[Narrator]

Sure, if you want me to. It'd only take a minute though.

[Dan Crocker]

Out.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, I guess Gus will be looking for me.

[Narrator]

Down to the cafe anyway.

[Dan Crocker]

And close the door.

[Limpy]

Sure, Mr. Crocker. Sure.

[Mr. Elliot]

Who's that?

[Dan Crocker]

Limpy? Oh, he's just what you'd call a handyman, I guess. Swamps out the cafe for Gus Hastings nights and picks up odd jobs daytimes.

[Mr. Elliot]

Why, he doesn't look very bright.

[Dan Crocker]

Well, if he was, would he be doing this kind of work? Well now, Mr. Elliot, sit down. Tell me what's on your mind. These who Lips thought that might be it.

[Mr. Elliot]

According to the reports I've received, there have been more than a dozen within the last three months. You know what's going to happen if they don't stop?

[Dan Crocker]

I could guess I'll have to sell.

[Mr. Elliot]

The line or go into bankruptcy. Every time money we've accepted for shipment is stolen, I have to make it good. Within the last 90 days I've paid claims amounting to more than $60,000.

[Dan Crocker]

I know. Well, Mr. Elliot, what do you want? My resignation.

[Mr. Elliot]

Out there and don't be a fool.

[Dan Crocker]

Well, I'm the man in charge here. I suppose your could's head was my fault.

[Mr. Elliot]

I could. I don't discharge men who've worked for me faithfully the moment something goes wrong.

[Dan Crocker]

I've always tried to do my best.

[Mr. Elliot]

And I would have known it long ago if you hadn't. No, Dan, I'm not here to blame you. I've taken it for granted that if you couldn't get to the bottom of this then there's a very definite reason for it. I came to Chatfield to learn that reason in person.

[Dan Crocker]

Do you want to know something funny about these hold ups, Ms. Elliot?

[Mr. Elliot]

What is it?

[Dan Crocker]

There's never a stage held up Lesson that's carrying dust or cash.

[Mr. Elliot]

I think I see what you mean. These robberies aren't hit or miss affairs. The bandits know when valuables are being carried. Yes. So then who's tipping them off?

[Dan Crocker]

There's the problem.

[Mr. Elliot]

I see you've checked the employees.

[Dan Crocker]

Half the hold ups happened when nobody here but me knew cash was being shipped. Not even the drivers or guards.

[Mr. Elliot]

You assure of that?

[Dan Crocker]

I take oath on it.

[Mr. Elliot]

What other measures have you tried?

[Dan Crocker]

Well, I've done all the usual things but none of them worked. But I'm glad you come here. I hired a fellow the other day I think will get results.

[Mr. Elliot]

Someone to make an investigation, you mean.

[Dan Crocker]

Right. His name's Ace Devlin. Don't know whether you ever heard of him or not. But I can tell you he knows his business. Used to work for Wells Fargo.

[Mr. Elliot]

His name's familiar.

[Dan Crocker]

If it ain't, it ought to be. In his time he's caught more stage robbers than any dozen other fellows Wells Fargo ever had on its payroll.

[Mr. Elliot]

I'd like to meet him.

[Dan Crocker]

Looks like you're going to. That's him. Just rolled up. Now. Wait a second. He'll be in here.

[Mr. Elliot]

Competent looking fellow.

[Dan Crocker]

Plain pison to crooks. You take my word for it. Plain pison. Ace, come here.

[Ace Devlin]

I made some progress, Dan.

[Dan Crocker]

Have you? Good. But first let me make you acquainted with Mr. Elliot here. He's the owner of the whole shebang. Mr. Elliot, this is Ace.

[Mr. Elliot]

How do you do?

[Ace Devlin]

Pleased to meet you. He'd hold up to bring you west, Mr. Elliot.

[Mr. Elliot]

They did?

[Ace Devlin]

Well then if they did, I don't think you're going to have to stay here long. I think I've got a line on the fellow behind all this.

[Dan Crocker]

You have?

[Narrator]

Yep.

[Mr. Elliot]

That's good news, Ace.

[Dan Crocker]

Who is it?

[Ace Devlin]

Well, maybe I spoke a little hasty. It could be either one or two fellows. Right now I'd rather not mention any names. I wonder if either one of you gents thought of something.

[Mr. Elliot]

Thought of what?

[Ace Devlin]

Dan's been suspicion of everybody working here. He's tried every which way to trap the fella, tipping off them highwaymen. But he's forgot the fellas who'd be sure to know when the cash was being carried.

[Dan Crocker]

Who did I forget?

[Ace Devlin]

Fellas shipping cash to the bank.

[Dan Crocker]

Well, I'll be.

[Mr. Elliot]

Of course, if I were going to send out money, for instance, I could tip off the stage robbers to go as to the time I meant to send it. They'd hold up the stage, take the money, then divide it with me. The stage company would have to make good the entire loss. I'd lose nothing and be ahead my share of the money that had been stolen. Ace, I think you've hit it.

[Ace Devlin]

So do I.

[Stage Driver]

Wait.

[Dan Crocker]

Yes, that makes me think nearly every merchant in town has lost cash at one time or another. But there's one particular fellow who ain't never sent cash east without the stage was robbed.

[Ace Devlin]

Gus Hastings.

[Mr. Elliot]

Right, Hastings.

[Dan Crocker]

The fella I mentioned before, Ms. Elliot. The fellow that runs the cafe in town.

[Mr. Elliot]

You think he's responsible, Devlin?

[Ace Devlin]

Well, he could be. Like Dan says, the stage has Been held up every time he shipped cash. And if it is him, why, that would explain the rest of robberies. Uh, oh, well, folks get to talking when they drink, Mr. Elliot. It's Hastings business to sell him drinks. If he kept his ears wide open, maybe once in a while he'd overhear somebody tell it when he had cash to bank.

[Mr. Elliot]

Will you be able to get proof against him?

[Ace Devlin]

He mustn't Forget I said there was another gent could be to blame. Well, I'll know which one tonight. Hastings is out of town for the day. When he gets back, I aim to ask him a few questions. And when you have, I'll have my answer.

[Mr. Elliot]

That came from outside this window.

[Dan Crocker]

There he goes riding a white horse. Ace, now keep that horse in mind. If that mask on Brie riding it ain't one of them holed up men, then my name ain't Dan Crocker.

[Narrator]

It was not an outlaw who had raced away from the express office, but the Lone Ranger on his great stallion, Silver. He thundered westward, never slackening speed, until he came to the secret camp where Totto waited.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, Silver.

[Stage Driver]

Oh, boy. Oh, there.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, Toto. I want a disguise.

[Stage Driver]

Quickly.

[Narrator]

Oh, what you do?

[Lone Ranger]

Ace Devlin's got on the right track at last. Kimasabe. Oh, tonight he's calling on Gus Hastings at the cafe.

[Narrator]

Him guilty?

[Lone Ranger]

That remains to be seen. But if he is, things are likely to happen. Ah, I plan to be there all right. Out of hurry. Got no time to waste.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger swiftly removed his mask, assumed a disguise, and borrowing Tonto's horse scalp, headed back for Chatfield. He could not know, however, that Hastings had returned to town earlier than expected. When the Lone Ranger entered the cafe, Hastings was already in the office with Ace Devlin. The man on duty behind the bar looked up at the Lone Ranger's approach, then. Evening, stranger. Good evening.

[Lone Ranger]

Where's Hastings?

[Narrator]

Busy right now, mister. Like a drink?

[Lone Ranger]

No. Is Hastings here?

[Narrator]

Sure. Back there in his office. He. Hey, hold on.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes?

[Narrator]

You can't go back there now.

[Lone Ranger]

Why not?

[Narrator]

Cause the boss ain't alone. He's with that feller, Ace Devlin. From what they said, they wouldn't take kindly to being disturbed. You better wait here.

[Lone Ranger]

Is that the door to his office there at the end of the bar?

[Narrator]

That's it. But don't you go back there.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm not. I think I'll go outside and take a look around. Martin, those shots came from inside Hastings office.

[Narrator]

You bet they did.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm going inside there. Come on.

[Dan Crocker]

Didn't them shots come from the office.

[Stage Driver]

Who's in there?

[Narrator]

I know Gus is there. I seen him go in. So's Ace Devlin.

[Lone Ranger]

One side.

[Stage Driver]

Better stay out, stranger.

[Dan Crocker]

Maybe they got some.

[Lone Ranger]

I said stand aside.

[Narrator]

Locked. The door's locked.

[Lone Ranger]

Right. Give me a hand. We'll have to break in. Everyone get back. There may be shooting. Come on.

[Stage Driver]

Hastings.

[Narrator]

Sir, I didn't do it. There were three shots.

[Mr. Elliot]

It must have come from the window.

[Lone Ranger]

Mark he take a look at Ace. May still be alive.

[Narrator]

Right.

[Stage Driver]

Stand back.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't crowd in here. Come and go for the sheriff.

[Stage Driver]

I'm right here. Let me through. Stand aside. What's happened here?

[Lone Ranger]

You probably know as much about this as we do. We heard shots in here and broke in. Hastings was standing here as you see him. Ace was on the floor.

[Narrator]

Barkeep, how is he? Dead.

[Stage Driver]

Then Gus, I'm arresting you for his murder.

[Dan Crocker]

Sheriff, I never killed him.

[Narrator]

I swear to. Everything's happened so fast, I. I just.

[Mr. Elliot]

Don'T know what to say.

[Stage Driver]

You say you had to bust in here, stranger?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Stage Driver]

And that means that the door was locked. There ain't no other door. So it's the only way out. Except for that window. Anybody in here besides you and Ace?

[Narrator]

No one.

[Stage Driver]

Then it has to be you. Dirty killer. He ought to be lynched. Turn him over to us, Sheriff. We'll save the law hanging in.

[Lone Ranger]

One moment.

[Stage Driver]

Hush up, you fellers.

[Lone Ranger]

Hastings isn't armed. Where's the gun that killed Ace?

[Stage Driver]

I never noticed. You got it, Limpy. I guess it's the one. Where'd you find it?

[Limpy]

Well, Gus claimed them shots come from outside.

[Stage Driver]

So I looked.

[Limpy]

And there was a gun right there.

[Lone Ranger]

Below the window on the ground.

[Narrator]

Sheriff, whoever shot Ace must have dropped his gun. Is hurry to get away.

[Stage Driver]

You claim them shots come from outside, huh? They did, Sheriff. They did. Well, they could have. Only there's two things say they didn't. One is I know why he's called on you. He had you pegged as the hombre behind the hold up. But I know. And the others. Something won't be easy to get around. Gus, this happens to be your gun.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on.

[Stage Driver]

No. Come on.

[Narrator]

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

[Limpy]

It.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. The Lone Ranger returned to camp and told Tonto what had happened at the cafe. While he spoke, he was quickly ridding himself of his disguise.

[Lone Ranger]

Then hand me my mask. Tanto.

[Narrator]

Here. Your mask. You Ryan again?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Narrator]

What do.

[Lone Ranger]

This affair isn't finished. Yet Kimo Sabi them catch killer. You mean they've jailed Gus Hastings? There's a difference.

[Narrator]

Him not killer.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, I won't say that he isn't. I will say, however, that I doubt that he is.

[Narrator]

Why you think that?

[Lone Ranger]

The sheriff claims Hastings killed Ace and dropped his gun outside the window. It's quite possible he did. But if he had enough presence of mind for that, why didn't he follow his gun through the window and make his escape? A moment's thought would have told him he'd be arrested. That right. As a matter of fact, when we broke into the office, he seemed dazed. He acted exactly as a man who found himself faced suddenly by a situation he couldn't understand. The law could say he'd killed Ace on impulse. But I still claim that a man who realized he must rid himself of his weapon would realize that he'd have to get away himself.

[Narrator]

Maybe you write.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm almost certain I am, Taddo. And for better reasons than I've told you.

[Narrator]

What then?

[Lone Ranger]

One was the position of Ace Devlin's body. It agreed with Hastings story. The shots came from outside. And there were powder burns on the windowsill. I saw them plainly. They were exactly where they should have been. As someone that stood outside steadied his gun against the window and then fired. What lawman say he didn't see it.

[Narrator]

You not tell?

[Lone Ranger]

If I had, the sheriff might have let Hastings go free.

[Narrator]

Me no savvy, Tanto.

[Lone Ranger]

The killer must be the man responsible for the hold ups. Earlier today, Ace told Elliot and Crocker he'd know who was guilty after he'd spoken to Hastings. The guilty man feared the result of that conversation murdered Ace to protect himself while Hastings is held for the murder. The real killer will think himself safe if Hastings is freed. Then the search for the killer will start all over again. Not right. And Hastings may die because the killer believes he needs to be silenced. No, Toddo. As long as the sheriff guards against the lynching. Hastings is safer where he is. You know, killer. I will.

[Narrator]

You've got plans?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. Call Scout.

[Dan Crocker]

Here, Scout.

[Lone Ranger]

Hey, Silver. A word of advice before we ride, kimosabe. What? That if the killer's the man, I suspect he's one of the shrewdest outlaws we've ever met. And one of the most dangerous. Be careful. Take care. Good. Come on, get him up.

[Dan Crocker]

Scout, old fellow.

[Stage Driver]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Later that same night, the stage eastbound from Chatfield labored to ascend a steep grade on the trail.

[Stage Driver]

Dig in, you critter. Pull, blast you. Pull.

[Ace Devlin]

Come on.

[Stage Driver]

Ain't much further. Put your weight into it. Get up. Get up. Get up.

[Narrator]

But just as the stage finally reached the top of the grade, several shots rang out. Two horsemen appearing suddenly from out of the shadows. Block the trail.

[Stage Driver]

Rein up. Outdoors again. Pull there. Pull up there.

[Lone Ranger]

This is a holdup. Don't reach for your gun. Just drop that express box to the trail and be quick about it.

[Stage Driver]

You quickly shoot. You can have it. I'll get it for you.

[Lone Ranger]

Follow orders or my next shot will be for you.

[Stage Driver]

I'm getting it.

[Lone Ranger]

Drop it over the side.

[Stage Driver]

Thank you.

[Lone Ranger]

Good. Now on your way.

[Stage Driver]

I'm gone. But, mister.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes?

[Stage Driver]

This is one time you got fooled. There ain't no more cash in that box than there is in my hip pocket. Get up. Get along there. Get up. Get along. Get up.

[Lone Ranger]

Did you hear what he said, Tunder? There no cash. Which is exactly why I hoped. You've got the box, then back to camp, Tanto. Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[Dan Crocker]

Silver.

[Stage Driver]

Away.

[Narrator]

When the stage returned to Chatfield late the following day, news of the holdup sent Sheriff Markham to the express office. Entering, he found Elliot and Dan Crocker inside.

[Stage Driver]

Evening, fellas.

[Mr. Elliot]

Hello, Sheriff.

[Dan Crocker]

We've been expecting you.

[Stage Driver]

I got here as fast as I could, but I just got word. So another one of your stages was held up, huh, Mr. Elliot?

[Mr. Elliot]

Exactly in the same manner as the.

[Dan Crocker]

Others, but without the same result.

[Stage Driver]

Well, that's one of the things I wanted to find out. Was there cash stole?

[Mr. Elliot]

Not a penny.

[Stage Driver]

You're positive of that, huh?

[Mr. Elliot]

I am.

[Dan Crocker]

You can look at our records. There's a list of everything went out on the stage last night. You'll find we weren't carrying $1 in cash.

[Stage Driver]

Well, that's good news to both of us, Sheriff.

[Mr. Elliot]

I can't afford many more losses.

[Stage Driver]

Nope, I don't reckon you can. But that ain't what I meant.

[Dan Crocker]

No, what you have in mind, Sheriff?

[Stage Driver]

Why, I thought you fellows could see it for yourselves. If there'd been cash on the stage and them crooks got it, why, that would have proved it. Warren Hastings tipped them off. After all, he's where he can't get word to nobody. Would have had to been someone else.

[Mr. Elliot]

I see.

[Dan Crocker]

Scared you'd have to start another hunt, huh?

[Stage Driver]

Can you blame me?

[Dan Crocker]

I.

[Narrator]

No.

[Dan Crocker]

Who said that it came from? There he is. There at the window.

[Lone Ranger]

Right.

[Stage Driver]

By thunder.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't slap mother, Sheriff. You either, Dan.

[Stage Driver]

Why, you can't bluff me.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm covered.

[Dan Crocker]

My gosh, that draws.

[Mr. Elliot]

It's the same mask, man.

[Stage Driver]

We Saw yesterday and one of them crooks that held up the stage. Alben a million I am.

[Lone Ranger]

And I'm coming in there by the front door. Don't draw while you're waiting for me, though. I have a friend here who'll keep you covered every second.

[Stage Driver]

You can't none of me. Watch him.

[Mr. Elliot]

There's somebody with him.

[Stage Driver]

A redskin.

[Dan Crocker]

What do you figure they want?

[Mr. Elliot]

I don't know. But I don't imagine we'll be long in finding out.

[Lone Ranger]

You won't.

[Stage Driver]

All right, what are you after?

[Lone Ranger]

First we'll return what we took last night. Tado, push that express box through the window.

[Dan Crocker]

Eric. Turning it Cause I want nothing in it.

[Lone Ranger]

Try to think straight. We were the outlaws you believe us to be. We wouldn't bother returning the box because there's no money in it. We just throw it away.

[Mr. Elliot]

You've admitted holding up the stage last night.

[Stage Driver]

And it does another time.

[Lone Ranger]

No, only the one you can't expect. But I won't bother convincing you now. That'll come later if you think there's.

[Dan Crocker]

Cash in the safe.

[Lone Ranger]

I know there isn't.

[Mr. Elliot]

And what did bring you here?

[Lone Ranger]

Toddo? And I came here to prove that Hastings is neither the murderer of Ace Devlin nor the man responsible for the stage robberies. Last night I wasn't positive of his innocence, Sheriff. But tonight I am and I'll prove it.

[Stage Driver]

How?

[Lone Ranger]

The hold up last night was part of a trap to catch the real killer. He took the bait and tonight the trap closes. Sheriff, you and Dan and Elliot are riding with Tonto and me.

[Mr. Elliot]

This is ridiculous. Sheriff.

[Stage Driver]

Can this fellow tell us, give us orders? Well, with the drop on us, I reckon he can.

[Lone Ranger]

Now you're acting sensibly. Your mount has already been led to the back of the office, Sheriff. Yeah, We've saddled horses for the other two. We ride at once.

[Stage Driver]

There's no use putting up a fuss, Mr. Elliot. We'll do as the masked man said.

[Narrator]

Although it was almost midnight, a small fire burned just inside the mouth of a cave many miles from Chatfield. Two men sat within the circle of light. Both were heavily bearded and powerfully built. Both had the appearance of men who make their living outside the law. The elder of the two broke the silence with Spot.

[Limpy]

Huh? You know, I've been thinking.

[Narrator]

Yeah?

[Limpy]

I've been doing a heap of thinking and I don't like where it gets me. Where does it get you? Well, what I've been thinking about most is that killing in town. You know, Ace stepping got me worried. Think it the Boss did it, huh? Don't you?

[Mr. Elliot]

Maybe.

[Limpy]

What of it? Well, it's like to spoil a mighty good thing. The boss ain't suspicion, does he? Not that I've heard of. Then how do you figure anything spoiled. We can keep on operating as long as he's all right, can't we? But how long's he gonna be all right?

[Narrator]

What do you mean?

[Limpy]

Well, with the killing, the law has to get busy. Oh, I know. They jailed Gus Hastings for it. What I'm getting at is this. If the boss was fool enough to kill once, what's to keep him from doing it again the second time? All this comes easier than the first, you know. Maybe next time he'll get caught, nuss along with him. Well, if he was, he wouldn't talk. What would he gain by it now? And how's anybody gonna pick this up? Shucks, that's the slickest part of the setup. We never meet on the stage is gonna carry cash. He leaves a sign where we can see it. Well, we got the cash. We take his share and leave it where he said Nobody could follow us to him or him to us. Idaho, you're worried about nothing.

[Dan Crocker]

As long as he stays away from.

[Limpy]

Us, we're in the clear.

[Stage Driver]

We don't know.

[Limpy]

Stay right there in the light where I can see you. You don't shoot.

[Stage Driver]

Boss, what's the matter?

[Limpy]

I'll stay out here where you won't have a target in case you get fooled. So you thought you'd branch out on your own, eh? Thought you could work by yourselves and I'd be scared to call you on it. Well, you say no ain't. What are you talking about?

[Stage Driver]

That holdup you pulled last night.

[Limpy]

What else, huh?

[Stage Driver]

Hold up?

[Narrator]

What holdup?

[Stage Driver]

Did I end it, huh?

[Limpy]

Well, that must mean there was cash on the stage, even if I didn't know about it. So you can hand it over.

[Stage Driver]

Boss, you must be loco. We didn't hold up no stage and we didn't get no cash.

[Limpy]

You can throw it out. I'll get it.

[Stage Driver]

But listen, I'm trying.

[Limpy]

Idaho. Let me talk to the boss. He got something all wrong. Boss, we didn't even know there was a hold up. We didn't know, huh? I got one gun, paint right on your shirt and another on Idaho. I reckon you know I'll shoot if I have to. If you think I won't. Remember H. Devlin? I gave him what I'll give you.

[Stage Driver]

If you keep on lying.

[Limpy]

Toss out that cash. Give me five minutes, then hit her out. We Work together for the last time.

[Lone Ranger]

You're right, Limpy. Drop those guns.

[Stage Driver]

What?

[Limpy]

Draw your guns and run for it. Now's our chance.

[Stage Driver]

Right. Come on. My hands smashed.

[Dan Crocker]

You smashed my hands.

[Lone Ranger]

That'll get these to me.

[Stage Driver]

Get em. Flash them. Fire. No. The engine's got lands killed.

[Mr. Elliot]

Back in here.

[Lone Ranger]

Kevin, you can take over. Here's all three Stranger.

[Dan Crocker]

You handle them fellas Slick.

[Mr. Elliot]

Well they're disarmed.

[Stage Driver]

You bet they are. Didn't you see it? The mask feller shot the gun right from Limpy's hand.

[Dan Crocker]

So you're the skunk who was behind all the hold ups, Limpy. You can't prove nothing.

[Lone Ranger]

We don't have to prove anything. You've talked enough to convict yourself a dozen times over.

[Stage Driver]

Limpy.

[Limpy]

You brought these fellas here?

[Lone Ranger]

I never knew there was anywhere around.

[Stage Driver]

You can quit the arguing. The mask man done it by holding up the stage to make Limpy think you was pulling holdups without his orders. The masked feller knew that was the only way to get Limpy to lead us to you and he fell for it.

[Dan Crocker]

I reckon if it hadn't been for the stranger in the engine, Limpy, we'd never have caught you. Pretending to be just a handyman around town without no spending money was mighty clever.

[Mr. Elliot]

But I still don't understand why you suspected Limpy, stranger.

[Lone Ranger]

I doubt that I would have if he hadn't killed Ace.

[Stage Driver]

You mean killing Ace to save hisself was what trapped him?

[Lone Ranger]

Right. I was convinced that Hastings wasn't guilty because of the circumstances of the killing. That left only Limpy as a suspect. He worked regularly for Hastings, which explains why the stage was held up every time Hastings sent money on it. He got odd jobs with the other merchants. Which explains why their money was stolen only occasionally.

[Dan Crocker]

By thunder.

[Lone Ranger]

Huh.

[Dan Crocker]

That puts me in mind of something else. Remember the day you come here, Mr. Elliot?

[Mr. Elliot]

I do.

[Dan Crocker]

Well, Limpy was sweeping out and I told him to leave. But he must have hung around and heard Ace say he'd know who was guilty.

[Lone Ranger]

After he talked to Hastings, he was outside. I saw him as I rode away.

[Dan Crocker]

So he figured he had to kill Ace. Well Limpy, I reckon you've reached the end of your rope. Say, that's a good one, ain't it? The end of his rope. By gosh, when you hang Limpy, that's just where you'll be.

[Stage Driver]

Get him up.

[Dan Crocker]

Scout.

[Stage Driver]

It.

[Dan Crocker]

I want to keep sa.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to 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.