Strangers from the East | The Lone Ranger (08-14-53)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns
Episode: Strangers from the East | The Lone Ranger (08-14-53)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: May 5, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features a digitally restored broadcast of The Lone Ranger episode, "Strangers from the East," originally aired on August 14, 1953. Listeners are transported to the golden age of radio, following the masked hero and his companion Tonto as they encounter a stranger in trouble and confront the corrupt Slugger Hawkins, who has seized control of Rock City. The episode explores themes of justice, redemption, and the Western code of honor, set against the backdrop of the lawless frontier.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

1. Discovery of a Stranger in Need (04:27–06:21)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto spot a stray horse along the trail, leading them to Drew Westcott, a newcomer from St. Louis, walking exhausted down the road.
  • Notable Quote:

    The Lone Ranger: "His rider may have had an accident." (04:41)

• Drew explains he was run out of Rock City by a bullying outlaw, Slugger Hawkins, and his gang after standing up to their intimidation in a cafe.
  • Notable Quote:

    Drew Westcott: "No, I was run out of town by a big, tough fella named Slug or something or other. He and his friends threw me out of the cafe, chased my horse down the trail and forced me to follow on foot." (06:00)

2. The Code Against Guns (06:41–13:07)

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto invite Drew to camp with them. Drew reveals the tragic family history that shaped his refusal to carry a gun:
  • Drew's father, a legendary sharpshooter and former sheriff, accidentally shot and killed his own brother-in-law due to a bad habit of firing too quickly.
  • Suffering from guilt, Drew’s father left for the West, urging Drew never to carry a gun or repeat his mistake.
  • Notable Quote:

    Drew Westcott: "Dad became sheriff in St. Louis once. He went after outlaws... As he rode from behind some boulders ahead to intercept dad... dad fired before he realized who it was." (11:33)

  • Reflection:

    The Lone Ranger: "That was a tragedy." (12:15)

• Drew confides he came West to find his father but is pulled unwillingly into conflict with Slugger Hawkins.

3. Rock City’s Trouble: Slugger Hawkins’ Reign (13:11–16:10)

• Rock City is under de facto control by Slugger Hawkins after the mysterious death of the sheriff.
  • The townspeople fear Hawkins and his men, offering no resistance to their schemes.
  • Slugger plots to legitimize his power by having himself installed as mayor, with his cronies as sheriff and deputy. They plan to manipulate the coming town meeting for their own gain.
  • Notable Quote:

    Slugger Hawkins: "If I was to get myself legally elected as mayor of Rock City, I could appoint Chunky as sheriff and Trigger as deputy. Then we could really take this town for everything it's worth." (14:32)

• The Lone Ranger sees an opportunity to rally resistance and undermine Slugger’s control.

4. Training with the Lone Ranger (19:05–20:14)

• Drew reluctantly agrees to take up a gun for the sake of justice, but struggles with his inherited tendency to "draw and fire as one motion."
  • The Lone Ranger offers patient instruction, helping Drew learn restraint and control.
  • Notable Quote:

    The Lone Ranger: "If you’re willing, Drew, I’ll spend time with you and try to teach you how to gain control." (19:36)

  • Drew: "I wish you would, sir." (19:43)

5. Undercurrents in Rock City (20:14–25:21)

• Tonto gathers intelligence in town, learning of the townsfolk's fear and their reluctance to oppose Slugger Hawkins at the election meeting.
• A mysterious stranger attempts to organize resistance but is subdued by Hawkins and his men, who plan to eliminate both him and, if possible, the masked man and Tonto, aware of their reputation in the region.
  • Notable Quote:

    Blacksmith: "You know, I’m curious about what you just said. Why do you say Rock City’s getting worse fast, mister?" (20:45)
    Blacksmith: "Nobody in town has the nerve, including me. He’s got everybody under his thumb—scared to make a move." (21:09)

6. Ambush and Showdown (25:21–28:27)

• Hawkins and his men attempt to ambush the Lone Ranger, Tonto, and Drew, but are outmaneuvered.
• At the town meeting, Hawkins tries to force his election but is interrupted by Drew, now armed and confident.
  • The Lone Ranger and Tonto, covering the meeting from windows, turn the tide through their dramatic intervention.
  • Notable Quotes:

    Drew Westcott: "You might look at the two windows behind you before any of you draw." (27:47)
    The Lone Ranger: "We have you all covered." (28:04)

• Hawkins and his gang are wounded and subdued, stripped of their power in front of the entire town.

7. Resolution: New Leadership and Reunion (28:33–30:33)

• The townspeople rejoice, quickly nominating Drew as the new mayor. In a twist, the previously gagged stranger (Drew's father) is freed and revealed.
  • Drew is joyfully reunited with his father and appoints him as Rock City's new sheriff.
  • Notable Quotes:

    Drew Westcott: "Dad!" (29:12)
    Drew Westcott: "Oh, with the backing of my two friends here, the masked man and the Indian. They taught me how to control my firing. Dad. Now I carry a gun." (29:22)

  • The Lone Ranger and Tonto slip away, ever mysterious.
  • Notable Quote:

    Drew Westcott: "He's about the finest man I ever met. And the best friend a fellow could hope for. He's the Lone Ranger." (30:33)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• Introduction & Theme – [01:38–04:27]
• Meeting Drew Westcott & His Story – [04:27–13:07]
• Slugger Hawkins' Scheme – [13:11–16:10]
• Drew’s Gun Training – [19:05–20:14]
• Town Intelligence, Stranger’s Capture – [20:14–25:21]
• Ambush & Plan for Showdown – [25:21–26:53]
• Town Meeting & Final Showdown – [26:53–28:27]
• Resolution & Father-Son Reunion – [28:33–30:33]
• Conclusion – [33:02–33:42]

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Memorable Moments & Quotes

• Drew’s Vow:

  "I have good reasons for not carrying one. For one thing, I would have killed Slugger Hawkins." – Drew Westcott (09:41)

• The Lone Ranger’s Faith:

  "I’ve decided you have courage, Drew. I’m very glad we met you." – The Lone Ranger (13:32)

• Father and Son Reunited:

  "Dad!" – Drew Westcott (29:12)
  "Drew, my boy." – Drew's Father (29:14)

• Identity Revealed:

  "Tell me who the masked man is, son."
  "Dad, he's about the finest man I ever met... He's the Lone Ranger." – Drew Westcott (30:33)

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Tone and Style

The episode captures classic Western storytelling:

• Themes of justice, redemption, and community courage
• Dialogue is direct, with clear moral contrasts between heroism (Lone Ranger, Tonto, Drew) and villainy (Slugger and gang)
• Virtue and integrity are ultimately victorious through both strategic action and restored family bonds

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Summary

"Strangers from the East" is a quintessential Lone Ranger adventure, weaving personal redemption with communal salvation. The restoration brings the suspense, galloping hooves, and dramatic confrontations to vivid life. Listeners will enjoy both the action and the heartfelt story of a son overcoming his past and reclaiming his future, all with the unflagging support of the Lone Ranger and Tonto. The episode stands as a testament to courage in the face of tyranny and the enduring power of doing what’s right.

Transcript

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[Andrew Rines]

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.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high. O Silver, the Lone Ranger.

[Chunky]

Sam, it's.

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tottle, the daring and resourceful mask 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 a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[The Lone Ranger]

One Silver. Let's go, big fella. I hope.

[Chunky]

Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and his Indian companion Tottle were traveling southward on the trail toward Rock City when the Indian pointed ahead and spoke.

[The Lone Ranger]

Look.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Kimasabi. Horse without rider grazing along trailhead.

[The Lone Ranger]

His rider may have had an accident.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Oh, there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, fella. Oh, there.

[Drew Westcott]

Totto.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't see anyone. The hoof marks show that horse came from town. We'll take him with us. I'll wait at the edge of Rock City while you go into town and hunt for the owner. Come on.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Get him up, Scott. Come, feller.

[Chunky]

Come on.

[Narrator]

With the stray horse in tow, the Lone Ranger and Tottle soon topped a rise and saw a bedraggled figure walking slowly toward them along the trail.

[Slugger Hawkins]

A feller walking this way. Maybe him. Look for horse.

[The Lone Ranger]

He seems tired.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Look him. Stop. Put up hands.

[The Lone Ranger]

You Must think we're outlaws, Hosing.

[Drew Westcott]

I haven't anything of value. I don't even carry a gun. I'm worn out from walking and say it's my horse.

[The Lone Ranger]

We found him grazing alongside the trail. We're not outlaws. No need to raise your hands.

[Drew Westcott]

Thanks, but that mess.

[The Lone Ranger]

Forget it. Oh, what happened? Did your horse throw you?

[Drew Westcott]

No, I was run out of town by a big tough fella named Slug or something or other. He and his friends threw me out of the cafe. Chased my horse down the trail and force me to follow on foot.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Him, maybe. Mean Slugger Hawkins fellow we hear about. Kimasabi.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. Taru, you're new to the west, aren't you?

[Drew Westcott]

Yes, I am. I'm Drew Westcott from St. Louis.

[The Lone Ranger]

Glad to meet you, Drew. Why did Slugger Hawkins mistreat you?

[Drew Westcott]

Well, earlier today, I was sitting in the Rock City Cafe. A fella, Slugger and his two friends in it.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Hey, we want some quick service, mister.

[Chunky]

Now, hold on, Slugger. Last time you hombres came in here, you were served plenty, but you refused to pay.

[Slugger Hawkins]

So you won't argue about it, huh? What about that, men? Shall we convince him we ought to get service?

[Chunky]

Yeah, I agree with Chunky. He ought to be convinced.

[Slugger Hawkins]

And draw your guns and let's go.

[Chunky]

Wait, wait. I'll give her whatever you want. Slugger, don't we?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Now you're talking sense. Put up your guns, man.

[Chunky]

Just as you say, slugger.

[Slugger Hawkins]

And as long as we're getting service, we might as well treat everybody in the place. Step up, everybody. Treats around the house.

[Chunky]

Hey, Slugger. There's one hombre over yonder who doesn't seem to want to join us.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Maybe he didn't hear me say the two treats around the house.

[The Lone Ranger]

Trigger.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Come on, Stranger. I reckon you didn't hear me say the treats around the house, did you?

[Drew Westcott]

Yes, I heard you, but I don't care for anything.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You don't, eh? Well, why don't you?

[Drew Westcott]

Because you have no right to come in here and force a cafe to treat everybody, including you and your friends.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Oh, you object to that, huh?

[Drew Westcott]

Yes, I do, Chunky.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Trigger, don't you think we ought to

[The Lone Ranger]

sit at this table?

[Chunky]

Yeah, that's right.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Get up and beat it, stranger.

[Drew Westcott]

What right have you to tell me this?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Right?

[Drew Westcott]

Let go, you.

[Slugger Hawkins]

All right, out of the way, everybody. I'm throwing out an undesirable stranger. Open the door, Chunky.

[Trigger]

Right,

[Slugger Hawkins]

out you go. Yeah, maybe we better help him up, huh?

[Chunky]

Come on. All right.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Folks around here know enough to jump when they get the word from Slugger Hawkins. Stranger. Help him up, Chunky.

[Trigger]

Right.

[Drew Westcott]

I don't need your help.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Where's your horse?

[Drew Westcott]

Palomino? There at the hitch. Wreck.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Trigger, go untie that Palomino and head him out of town.

[Chunky]

Sure thing, Slugger.

[Drew Westcott]

Wait a minute. Don't do that.

[Chunky]

Steady, boy. Get up. Get up there.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Mister, you better get going after your horse. I want you to go running. You savvy?

[Drew Westcott]

If I had a.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You haven't likely couldn't use one if you had. Now get moving.

[The Lone Ranger]

Chungy. Trigger.

[Chunky]

Yeah?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Help me kick up the dust around his heels with a few bullets.

[Chunky]

With plenty.

[The Lone Ranger]

That was quite an experience, Drew. You're lucky Slugger Hawkins didn't shoot you in the back as you ran from town. He has a very bad reputation.

[Chunky]

Isn't that right?

[The Lone Ranger]

Why don't you carry a gun?

[Drew Westcott]

Frankly, I. I gave up carrying firearms in the West.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's necessary for self protection.

[Drew Westcott]

I have good reasons for not carrying one.

[The Lone Ranger]

Such as?

[Drew Westcott]

For one thing, I would have killed Slugger Hawkins.

[The Lone Ranger]

No need to go that far. But having a gun might have kept you from being mistreated today. A man like Slugger Hawkins respect a gun and a quick draw would have.

[Drew Westcott]

Would have resulted in his death.

[The Lone Ranger]

I don't understand.

[Drew Westcott]

I don't think you do. But no matter.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, at least you have your horse back. Now where will you go?

[Drew Westcott]

I haven't decided yet. Mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

We're going to camp near here. If you care to join us. I'd like to talk to you some more.

[Drew Westcott]

I could do with some advice, mister. Maybe you're the man who can give it to me. I'd like to go with you and the Indian.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good.

[Blacksmith]

Let's go.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Narrator]

After the three men had pitched camp in a nearby grove, Drew said very little. But later, when they sat near the campfire having coffee, he seemed to have gained enough confidence in his newly found friends to begin a conversation.

[Drew Westcott]

I suppose you wonder about me being out here in the west and not carrying a gun.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I have wondered. Drew?

[Chunky]

Yeah.

[Drew Westcott]

The first place dad was an expert with a gun. From the time I could hold one, he taught me all he could about firearms, which was considerable.

[The Lone Ranger]

Go on.

[Blacksmith]

We listen.

[Drew Westcott]

Dad was younger. He came west, became a frontier sheriff out here.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's interesting.

[Drew Westcott]

He went back east to visit and met mom after they married. She persuaded him to stay there. You see, dad could outdraw and out shoot most anybody. But he had the habit of drawing and firing almost at the same time. He never gave anyone a chance.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm Beginning to understand now.

[Drew Westcott]

Dad became sheriff in St. Louis once. He went after outlaws with a posse. His brother in law rode with him. Posse separated to widen the search.

[The Lone Ranger]

What happened?

[Drew Westcott]

Brother in law and a few others took a branch trail. Later they found the outlaw's tracks. Dad's brother in law left. The others took a shortcut down a slope to find him. As he rode from behind some boulders ahead to intercept dad. Well, dad fired before he realized who it was.

[Chunky]

Not bad, I know.

[Drew Westcott]

He killed his own brother in law because of his bad habit.

[The Lone Ranger]

That was a tragedy.

[Chunky]

Yeah.

[Drew Westcott]

Dad almost went crazy thinking about it. Mom died soon after. And then one morning, dad went away for good. Yes, he. He left a note saying he was heading west. He went on to write that since he'd never draw first again against anyone, he'd likely die with his boots on. He said because he taught me to handle a gun, I'd learned the same bad habit he had. He begged me in the note never to carry a gun. And to go farther east to relatives in New England. I'd have no need for a gun.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Now we know why you not have guns.

[Drew Westcott]

Haven't carried a gun since dad left. But I couldn't stand staying with Mom's relatives. So I came west to find dad.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did you have any particular reason for coming to Rock City, Drew?

[Drew Westcott]

Dad used to mention Rock City. I thought perhaps he settled in this vicinity.

[The Lone Ranger]

Since Slugger Hawkins and his partners moved into Rock City, there's been trouble. Everybody there is said to fear him. Hal and I came down here hoping we could do something about the situation.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Isn't that right, Slugger?

[Chunky]

Plenty mean feller.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Him steal, kill.

[Drew Westcott]

Well, I can't match Hawkins physically. He's much bigger and stronger than I. But I'm not afraid of him.

[The Lone Ranger]

I've decided you have courage, Drew. I'm very glad we met you.

[Chunky]

That's right, Drew.

[The Lone Ranger]

The people of Rock City need help. They're all under the thumb of Hawkins and his men. Two weeks ago, the sheriff conveniently met with a so called accident. Since then, there's been no law in Rock City.

[Drew Westcott]

I noticed. Everyone seemed to give in to Hawkins. There ought to be some way to relieve the situation.

[The Lone Ranger]

Would you be willing to help?

[Drew Westcott]

Yes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good. I have a plan in mind, Drew. I think we'll be able to prove to the people of Rock City that Slugger Hawkins isn't as tough as he seems. That he's really a coward.

[Narrator]

Meantime, in his hotel room, Slugger Hawkins was talking to his two friends.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Well, boys, I got everybody in this town Eating right out of my hand.

[Trigger]

You sure have, Slugger.

[Chunky]

You practically own the town.

[Slugger Hawkins]

And speakin of ownin the town, I've been thinkin of something.

[Drew Westcott]

What?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Now listen, both of you. If I was to get myself legally elected as mayor of Rock City, I could appoint Chunky as sheriff and Utrigger as deputy. Then we could really take this town for everything it's worth.

[Chunky]

And alive.

[Trigger]

That is an idea, boss.

[Chunky]

You think you can get by with it, Slugger?

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You boys pass a word around town that there'll be a meeting of all the men of Rock City and the meeting house to nominate and elect someone for mayor. We hold the meeting tomorrow afternoon at 2 o'. Clock.

[Trigger]

We'll start telling everybody right away.

[Chunky]

Yeah, but tell us, Slugger, how you gonna work?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Well, the meeting. Chunky will nominate me. You, Trigger, get up quick and second it and suggest that nominations be closed and nobody'll dare nominate anyone else. After that, I'll call for a standing vote.

[Trigger]

That ought to bring every man to his feet.

[Chunky]

Yeah, no one would have the nerve to stay seated. You could bring the gang in to back us up if necessary.

[Slugger Hawkins]

That's the way I figure it. After the vote, I'll be mayor and I'll tax every businessman in town. So, sort of a payoff for the privilege of staying business, then. Sheriff and deputy, you two will be sure they pay and that nobody interferes.

[Trigger]

Doggone it, you sure haven't figured out.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You gotta be smart, Chunky, to get along. You and Trigger go around town. Pass a word about the meeting.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Tell them we expect everybody to be there. Without fail,

[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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[Narrator]

Now, to continue at their camp, the Lone Ranger and Toto had given Drew Westcott a gun and watched with interest as he demonstrated his marksmanship. They were both greatly impressed.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's good shooting, Drew.

[Chunky]

Thanks.

[Drew Westcott]

Like Dad, I automatically squeeze the trigger when I draw. I just can't seem to control it.

[The Lone Ranger]

I noticed that Drew and you hit the target without taking time to aim him.

[Chunky]

Fine shot plenty fast and draw.

[The Lone Ranger]

But as Drew said, he needs control. If you're willing, Drew, I'll spend time with you and try to teach you how to gain control.

[Drew Westcott]

I wish you would, sir.

[Narrator]

For the rest of that afternoon and during the early part of the following morning, the Lone Ranger announced Tonto worked with Drew as he patiently tried to learn control in squeezing the trigger. While the Lone Ranger continued working with Drew, Ton rode to the blacksmith shop at the edge of town to have a loose shoe on Scout Face. The Indian waited while the blacksmith worked on the horse of a middle aged stranger. Tonto listened with interest to their conversation.

[Blacksmith]

You're new around here, aren't you, mister?

[Chunky]

Not exactly. Though I haven't been here for some years. Looks like Rock City's grown a lot since then.

[Blacksmith]

Yeah, it sure isn't getting any better as a place to live or do business. Fact is, it's getting worse fast.

[Drew Westcott]

Here.

[Blacksmith]

Reckon this shoe will fit all right now. Steady there. Easy now.

[The Lone Ranger]

These who here?

[Blacksmith]

In a minute.

[Chunky]

You know, I'm curious about what you just said. Why do you say Rock City is

[The Lone Ranger]

getting worse fast, mister?

[Blacksmith]

One of you've heard of an umbre named Slugger Hawkins?

[The Lone Ranger]

Nope. Why?

[Blacksmith]

He runs Rock City now. Fact, he's called a meeting at 2 o' clock to get himself elected mayor. After that, anything can happen.

[The Lone Ranger]

Lol.

[Chunky]

The townsman have to do is to run someone against him, huh?

[Blacksmith]

Nobody in town has the nerve, including me. He's got everybody under his thumb. Is scared to make a move.

[Chunky]

Well, I was aiming to stay here a day or two anyway. I'll stick around and see what goes on.

[Blacksmith]

Well, that's it, mister. One dollar.

[Chunky]

Thanks. And here's the money.

[Blacksmith]

Right. If you were a slugger, one of his pals. I wouldn't collect very.

[Chunky]

A few hours before that meeting. Maybe I could talk some of the townsmen into running someone else against Hawkins.

[Blacksmith]

You'll sure be caught in trouble if you much talking. But I'll be waiting to see how you make out.

[Chunky]

All right.

[Blacksmith]

Engine, bring your horse over here.

[Chunky]

I'm Scout. I'll be seeing you, mister. So long.

[Blacksmith]

Get up there, Engine. That stranger's heading for trouble for sure. Slugger Hawkins won't like anybody interfering. As soon as he hears about it, that stranger might end up with a bullet in his back.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's right.

[Narrator]

Shortly after Tottle left the blacksmith shop, rode through the main street of Rock City. He noticed the stranger's horse in front of the cafe, so he dismounted and went inside. He heard the newcomer talking to a group of men.

[Chunky]

Ain't you men ought to have courage enough to run a man of your own choice for May. If you don't like the hombre you think he's going to be nominated? You don't know Slugger Hawkins, stranger. We don't dare on anyone else. How come you let one hombre scare all of you into letting him take over Rock's? He's a killer. And he's got tough friends too. Get tough yourselves then. You might get good results at that meeting. Let's think it over. I have to get a room at the hotel, but I'll see you all later.

[Narrator]

Tonto left the cafe behind the stranger and rode back to camp. He told the Lone Ranger and Drew about Slugger's plans and about the stranger who was trying to get the townsman to oppose him. Shortly after noontime, Chunky went to the hotel and entered the room where Slugger and Trigger were playing cards.

[Trigger]

Hey, I heard a stranger at the cafe shooting off his mouth a while ago. He told the men there they were fools to be scared of you. Said they ought to run someone against you.

[Slugger Hawkins]

What? Where's that stranger now?

[Trigger]

Right here in the hotel, down in room 203.

[Slugger Hawkins]

That makes it easy. We'll get to him and shut him up.

[Trigger]

Now wait. I found out something else. Something important.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Yeah, what?

[Trigger]

I saw an Indian around town dressed in buckskins and riding a fine paint.

[Slugger Hawkins]

What about it?

[Trigger]

Remember the masked man who rode with an Indian over near Pecos? The homies who helped the law grab the Norton gang.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You mean that's the Indian you saw? Yeah.

[Chunky]

Holy mackerel, Slugger. That means the masked man must be around here too.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Come on. We get to that loud mouthed stranger first. Then we'll Pick up the trail of that redskin.

[Blacksmith]

Why?

[Trigger]

We don't want to get mixed up with those two hombres.

[Slugger Hawkins]

We got a couple of hours for the meeting. Maybe we can catch the masked man in Indian off guard and settle with him. And we'll get back here in time to go through with our plans. We don't get to them first, they'll move in on us and spoil everything. Now let's go.

[Narrator]

A few minutes later, Slugger and his two gunmen knocked on the door of the stranger's room.

[Blacksmith]

Have your gun ready.

[Chunky]

Sure. Right. Bloody. What can I do for you?

[Slugger Hawkins]

Reach.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mister.

[Slugger Hawkins]

We're here for a visit. Step aside.

[Chunky]

Well, I reckon you're Slugger Hawkins. I've heard about you. You kind of took me off guard just now.

[Slugger Hawkins]

If you were smart, stranger, you would have expected this visit.

[Chunky]

Yes, I reckon I should have.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Take his gun, boys. And time.

[Blacksmith]

Gag him. All right.

[Slugger Hawkins]

We leave him here till after the meeting. And after that the new sheriff will arrest him on a fake charge and then let him escape. Of course, he won't go far without getting a bullet. Now get busy.

[Blacksmith]

Let's go.

[Narrator]

Later, Slugger and his gunman rode along the trail Tonto had taken from town, following the Indian's hoof marks. At the camp, the Lone Ranger was discussing the situation with Tonto and Drew

[The Lone Ranger]

Wescott, the stranger you heard in the cafe. Tonto may at least start the townsman thinking.

[Drew Westcott]

He'll be in plenty of trouble when Slugger Hawkins hears what he's been doing.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll all ride to the grove on the edge of town. Tono will go into Rock City and check on things. Later, when the townsmen are gathered in the meeting house, we'll follow through with a plan I have in mind.

[Chunky]

You must have the horses give warning, then look cross gully behind us.

[The Lone Ranger]

Quick. Move in among the trees.

[Narrator]

The three men ran in crouching position to the safety of the trees just as a shot rang out.

[The Lone Ranger]

That shot came behind the large bullet beyond the gully. Move closer. Keep behind the trees.

[Drew Westcott]

No.

[Chunky]

One man get hit.

[The Lone Ranger]

They're leaving three of them. I'd like to have had a closer look at them.

[Chunky]

I'm riding direction to town.

[The Lone Ranger]

Pick up the trail. We're going to town anyway. Come on. We'll discuss my plan of what we'll do at the meeting while we ride.

[Narrator]

At 2 o', clock, the townsmen gathered at the meeting house in town according to the instructions given out by Slugger's two gunmen. Slugger Hawkins stood on the low platform before them.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Quiet, everybody.

[Chunky]

Quiet.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Now all of you know why we're here. It's about time we elected a mayor for Rock City. We'll have nominations from the floor. No need to give out ballots. We'll take a stand and vote. Now we'll get down to business. Yes, let's have the nominations.

[Trigger]

I nominate Slugger Hawkins.

[Chunky]

I second that. Move that the nominations be closed. Watch em in.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Who said that?

[Drew Westcott]

I said it. Hawkins.

[Slugger Hawkins]

You thought we ran you out of town. Chunky, Trigger, throw this fool eastern her out and cool his heels with a few bullets.

[Drew Westcott]

Stay away from me. You too, Hawkins.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Oh, carrying a gun this time, huh? Draw your guns, man. Make sure this ordinary better look at

[Drew Westcott]

the two windows behind you before any of you draw.

[Trigger]

Hey, slugger. The masked man's at one window, the Indian at the other.

[Chunky]

They're covering us with gun, Slugger.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Well, I'll settle with this young fool for bringing them Halda.

[Chunky]

No.

[Slugger Hawkins]

I'm hit.

[Narrator]

As Slugger dropped his gun and clutched his wounded wrist, the Lone Ranger called through one of the windows.

[The Lone Ranger]

We have you all covered. Hey, slugger, I noticed one of your men has an arm and a sling. You must have been the three men who tried to ambush us a while ago at our camp.

[Chunky]

We better gun the masked man and the Indian. Oh, wait.

[The Lone Ranger]

They're against Slugger.

[Trigger]

The masked man's wise. Trigger, let's get away from here.

[Chunky]

Use your gun, Chunky.

[The Lone Ranger]

Right.

[Chunky]

I'll gun that yellow.

[The Lone Ranger]

Drop that gun.

[Narrator]

After wounding Chunky, the Lone Ranger followed Toto through the windows. Still keeping the crooks covered.

[Chunky]

I'll throw down my gun. Mister. I'm already wounded.

[The Lone Ranger]

Toto, watch these three. Keep them covered while the election continues.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Me watch him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Men, if you want to continue with this meeting and take this method of electing a mayor, go ahead. The slugger Hawkins is out of the running.

[Chunky]

That young fellow's the only one who got up nerve enough to face Hawkins.

[Slugger Hawkins]

Sure is.

[Chunky]

He's got plenty of spumps.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, yes, he sure handles the gun. Let's elect him mayor.

[Chunky]

What's his name?

[The Lone Ranger]

His name is Drew Westcott.

[Chunky]

I nominate Drew Westcott for mayor. I second the nomination. Let's make it. You nasty. Wait, wait.

[Drew Westcott]

Hold on.

[Chunky]

Let me talk. Lugger Hopkins and his men tied and gagged me in my hotel room. Hey, what. What goes on that mask, man?

[Drew Westcott]

Dad.

[Chunky]

Drew, my boy.

[Drew Westcott]

Oh, dad, it's good to see you.

[Chunky]

Oh, sonny, she. You the hombre who faced Hawkins?

[Drew Westcott]

Oh, with the backing of my two friends here, the masked man and the Indian. They taught me how to Control my firing. Dad. Now I carry a gun.

[Chunky]

Ray. Son, that's wonderful.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Drew, you've been elected mayor of Rock City. Congratulations.

[Drew Westcott]

Well, in that case, I appoint my dad as sheriff.

[Chunky]

He's a stranger who talked against Hawkins.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah, he'll be a good

[Chunky]

first thing I'll do is sheriff is to put Hawkins and his gun slicks in jail for attempted murder. They planned to kill me.

[Drew Westcott]

You said they tied and gagged you.

[Chunky]

Well, I made a big racket by kicking my feet against the door and the hotel clerk finally came up and untied me.

[Drew Westcott]

I see. Men, I'll do my best as mayor. And I know dad will make a fine sheriff. He'll see that law and order is kept here in Rock City.

[Chunky]

No. Son, I'd like to meet the two friends you spoke about. The masked man in India Nep. They were here a minute ago.

[Drew Westcott]

They got other men to guard Hawkins and his pals and they slipped out during the excitement. But you'll meet him sometime soon. Dad.

[Chunky]

Tell me who the masked man is. Sir.

[Drew Westcott]

Dad, he's about the finest man I ever met. And the best friend of fellow could hope for. He's a lone Ranger.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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[Liberty Mutual Co-Spokesperson]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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[Liberty Mutual Co-Spokesperson]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Liberty Mutual Co-Spokesperson]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Slugger Hawkins]

If you're into tech, you'll love this.

[Drew Westcott]

TikTok is a live lab where users

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

post instant reviews of the latest trends.

[Narrator]

Download TikTok and check it out.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sam.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell, Muir Incorporated, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beame.

[Andrew Rines]

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 our most recent ranch hands, Steve, who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com 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 Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Chunky]

It.