Testimony | The Lone Ranger (08-23-39)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Detailed Summary of "Testimony | The Lone Ranger (08-23-39)"

Introduction

In the "Testimony" episode of The Lone Ranger, originally aired on August 23, 1939, listeners are immersed in a tense courtroom drama set in the Wild West. Hosted by Andrew Rines, this episode showcases the Lone Ranger's relentless pursuit of justice amidst corruption, deception, and impending danger. The digitally restored audio enhances the atmospheric sounds, bringing to life the rugged landscapes and intense courtroom scenes that defined classic Western radio dramas.

Plot Overview

The episode centers around Luke Daly, a man accused of multiple crimes including horse stealing, rustling, stage robbing, and armed robbery. The local sheriff and Judge Wilkie struggle to secure a conviction due to the absence of concrete evidence, heightening tensions in the courtroom and the town at large.

Key Characters

• Judge Wilkie: The beleaguered judge striving to uphold justice despite systemic corruption and lack of evidence.
• Milt Cummins: A determined lawyer defending Luke Daly, fighting against the prejudiced system.
• Greg: A conflicted witness whose testimony could sway the trial's outcome.
• Masked Man: A mysterious figure with vested interests in the trial's proceedings.
• The Lone Ranger & Silver: Symbolic of unwavering justice, they move through the narrative, ensuring that truth prevails.

Significant Scenes and Discussions

1. Courtroom Turmoil ([04:32] - [06:00])

   The episode opens in a chaotic courtroom where Judge Wilkie attempts to maintain order. The prosecution's evidence has mysteriously vanished, leading Milt Cummins to vocally protest the attempt to convict an innocent man without proof.

   Judge Wilkie ([06:01]): "We ain't going to have no speeches, Zeke."

   Milt Cummins ([06:01]): "This is clearly a shameless attempt to railroad an innocent man to jail."

2. Moral Dilemmas and Pressure ([07:08] - [10:13])

   Milt assures Luke of his support but faces mounting pressure from Greg, who grapples with the fear of wrongful conviction tarnishing his reputation. Personal struggles surface as Greg converses with his deceased wife, Mary, revealing his internal conflict between integrity and fear.

   Greg ([10:13]): "But just the same, if I keep still and Luke goes free, it'll be a rotten trick on folks that have been my friends."

3. The Masked Man's Intervention ([12:52] - [16:36])

   A pivotal moment occurs when a masked man abducts Milt Cummins, threatening him to silence his testimony against Luke. This act of intimidation underscores the pervasive corruption and the lengths to which individuals will go to manipulate justice.

   Masked Man ([12:52]): "You're coming with me."

4. The Lone Ranger's Arrival ([23:27] - [29:35])

   As tensions escalate, the Lone Ranger arrives to restore order. He confronts the masked man, uncovering the truth behind the missing evidence. It is revealed that Milt had previously been involved in a gunfight with Slim Beckett, whose dying statement falsely implicates him, orchestrated by Greg to evade consequences.

   Masked Man ([29:24]): "Slim Beckett... Milt not only did society a favor when he killed Slim, but there's still reward money waiting for him."

5. Climactic Trial and Resolution ([26:24] - [31:20])

   The trial resumes with heightened emotions. Judge Wilkie attempts to maintain his impartiality but is confronted with the masked man's revelations. The Lone Ranger ensures that justice is served, exposing the deceit that threatened to undermine the entire legal process.

   Judge Wilkie ([31:20]): "Hold that paper over his face. Your Honor."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Milt Cummins ([06:01]): "The prosecution has just admitted there ain't no evidence. This is clearly a shameless attempt to railroad an innocent man to jail."

• Greg ([10:13]): "If I keep still and Luke goes free, it'll be a rotten trick on folks that have been my friends."

• Masked Man ([12:52]): "You're coming with me."

• Judge Wilkie ([21:16]): "Here's to the lady with the scales in her hands and the bandana across her eyes. Her handle's justice."

Themes and Insights

The episode delves deep into themes of justice, integrity, and the struggle against corruption. Greg's internal conflict represents the universal battle between doing what is right versus succumbing to external pressures. The Lone Ranger embodies the ideal of unwavering justice, intervening to correct systemic wrongs and ensure that truth prevails.

Conclusion

"Testimony | The Lone Ranger (08-23-39)" masterfully weaves a narrative of courtroom intrigue and moral conflict, enhanced by stellar voice acting and rich audio restoration. The episode not only entertains but also prompts listeners to reflect on the nature of justice and the importance of standing up against corruption. By bringing classic Western tales to modern audiences with improved audio fidelity, Old Time Radio Westerns pays homage to timeless stories while making them accessible and engaging for today's listeners.

Transcript

[Narrator]

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart. With Instacart's family carts, everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus enjoy free delivery on your first three orders. Service fees and terms apply.

[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.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

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[The Lone Ranger]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the Plains fought crime and criminals throughout the early western United States. But the frontier courts were primitive. And due to the incompetence of the local sheriffs, a capture did not always lead to a conviction. It was only when the courage and resourcefulness of the Lone Ranger were placed in the balance that justice was sure to triumph. Return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Judge Wilkie]

Come on, Silver. Luke Baby's trial begins today. We've got to hurry. High all Silver. Hooray.

[The Lone Ranger]

Judge Wilkie rapped for attention with his gavel.

[Judge Wilkie]

And now. Folks, folks, this here's a court of law. No sense acting like he was to home. Just quiet down now. You, Clem, put that pack of cards away. Water Gamble. The cafe's a place for us. Barney, set that jug down. I'VE been watching you. You've had enough. Courts now in session. Luke Daly, Lars charged with horse stealing, rustling, stage robbing, cards, claim jumping, robbery, armed cards and cheating at cards. None of which has looked all with favor in these parts. Charge. Don't be in such a hurry, Zeke. You get your chance to present the evidence and tell the jury all about it in just a second. But there ain't no evidence, Judge.

[Milt Cummins]

Huh?

[Judge Wilkie]

It's been stolen. Quiet. Quiet. Now. What's that you said? It's gone. Every doggone bit of evidence we had is gone. Ask the sheriff. Somebody broke in his office last night and stole it. That right, John? Jake give it to you straight, Fred. Somebody forced a lock, busted my desk and cleaned it out. Why ain't you told me before this? I've done without half my dinner to get here in time. We only just now found it out fine sheriff you are. How was I to know anybody to do a thing like that? You figure I understand God on that evidence 24 hours a day?

[Greg]

You.

[Judge Wilkie]

What are you going to do about.

[Milt Cummins]

Me if you got the evidence? Try me. If you ain't, you got to let me go.

[Judge Wilkie]

Now, wait.

[Milt Cummins]

That's right, you, Honor. The prosecution has just admitted there ain't no evidence. This is clearly a shameless attempt to railroad an innocent man to jail. And I protest with such gross injustice. I appeal to you as an upright.

[Judge Wilkie]

Here, here, here, now. That'll be enough. We ain't going to have no speeches, Zeke.

[Milt Cummins]

Uh huh.

[Judge Wilkie]

Have you or have you not evidence against the prisoner Luke Daly, I. Well, we still got Milt Cummins to testify for us. You ready to carry on? The prosecution depending on Milt to get you a conviction? If you give me a little time, I'll give you a week. Court's adjourned till a week from today.

[Milt Cummins]

They can't hold my client.

[Judge Wilkie]

Reckon they can. Greg. Sheriff. Yeah? Take the prisoner back to the calaboose. And if he stole from you, I'll have you up for contempt of court. If Luke gets out, I'll resign.

[Milt Cummins]

Your Honor. Well, I'd appreciate having a word in private with my client before he jailed again, if it's all the same to you.

[Judge Wilkie]

Sure, go ahead. Just don't take all day.

[Masked Man]

Thanks.

[Judge Wilkie]

All right, show's over. Clear the courtroom.

[Milt Cummins]

Mr. Gregg. Now, Luke, don't you worry. This didn't work out just the way I figured. But you got my word you won't never be convicted.

[Judge Wilkie]

What?

[Milt Cummins]

You said they'd have to let me loose. I'll fix it. The evidence Is gone for good. Burned up. But how about Milt Cummins?

[Masked Man]

He can tell plenty about me.

[Milt Cummins]

Yeah, he knows about the claim jumping into the town. But I can't. Cummins won't open his mouth. You hear that? You keep still and be glad to do it. I'll go on back with the sheriff. I'll see to Milk tonight.

[The Lone Ranger]

That night.

[Milt Cummins]

Well, there you have it, Milt. You're gonna say half the things you claim to know about Luke you forgot. The rest you ain't so sure of as you was.

[Greg]

Well, you do this to me, Greg.

[Milt Cummins]

I've got a client to defend. He isn't going to be convicted.

[Greg]

He's guilty as a man can be. He's the rottenest skunk ever come to this town.

[Milt Cummins]

And if he's convicted, I get a hundred dollars for my fee. He goes loose, I get a thousand. There's only one answer to a proposition like that.

[Greg]

You're defending him? Knowing him, the crook he is, why not? Well, it's nothing to surprise a man. You've been crooked enough yourself in your time. Likely you could tell what happened to the evidence that was stolen. Perhaps I'll have to think it over.

[Milt Cummins]

Court don't convene again for another week.

[Greg]

I wish I knew what to tell you. No, that ain't it. I reckon I savvy what I ought to do plain enough. What I mean is, I wish I had the nerve to tell you to go to blazes.

[Milt Cummins]

I wouldn't if I was you. The next thing you'd find yourself right where Luke is. With less chance of getting out all these years. I got a good memory, Milt. And this ain't the first time it served me a good turn. Sure, I can recollect what happened 15 years ago just like it was yesterday. And maybe if you don't behave yourself, I'll start recollecting right out loud where the law can hear me.

[Greg]

You'd better go now.

[Milt Cummins]

Sure.

[Greg]

I'd like to ask Mary about this.

[Milt Cummins]

Mary, your wife?

[Greg]

Uh huh. We always talk things over when they ain't real clear. Right level headed Mary is too. She's never yet said to do a thing that was wrong.

[Milt Cummins]

But your wife's been dead for the past five years.

[Greg]

That long? Don't seem like it sometimes. Fact is, I've never been able to really convince myself she's left me. See there? See that rocking chair? Well sir, that's where Mary all is satisfied. She'd set there by the hour. Just rocking what? So now when I want to ask her Things I set there myself. I rock a bit like she done. And the first thing you know, there she is standing beside me, smiling real pretty and mighty nigh as young looking as the day we run away to get married.

[Milt Cummins]

Ain't the time to listen to such nonsense. Just see that you let me know what you plan to do before the trial starts up again. Good night.

[Greg]

You hear him, Mary? Did you? Sounded like you kind of misdoubted what I told him about you and me, didn't it honey? I'm in a fix. Seems like sometimes no matter how hard a man tries, the deck's stacked agin him. Look at what's happened. Here's this fellow Luke Daly. And no good if there ever was one. He's in jail right now and he ought to be kept there. And I'm the man can make sure he is. But gosh, I don't know Millie. I tell what I know up there in court and they'll be jailing me too. Ain't an easy thing to face. I'm getting along and I've always been well thought of. But just the same, if I keep still and Luke goes free, it'll be a rotten trick on folks that have been my friends. Mary, what's a man to do.

[The Lone Ranger]

The following morning?

[Milt Cummins]

Then by thunder, I'll go to the sheriff.

[Greg]

Go ahead Greg, that's your privilege. I can't stop you. But it's like I've just said. I've got to give my testimony.

[Milt Cummins]

You don't.

[Greg]

I do. It's what Mary wants.

[Milt Cummins]

You gone clean loco.

[Greg]

Nope. I'm seeing things straight.

[Milt Cummins]

You know what this means?

[Greg]

Uh huh. Jail maybe. Maybe even hanging.

[Milt Cummins]

And you'd rather risk that than keep shut?

[Greg]

I told you, it's what Mary wants.

[Judge Wilkie]

You old fool.

[Milt Cummins]

You talk and you will hang. I'll see to that myself. You'll hang and I'll be watching. And the only thing I'll be sorry for is that you can't hang twice.

[Greg]

Well, good day.

[Milt Cummins]

No, no, wait Milt. Now wait. What's the use in your acting like this? What's the good of it? Do you think the folks around here are gonna thank you for testifying?

[Greg]

I got to do it.

[Milt Cummins]

Look, look here. I'll admit Luke's a crook, see? I'm admitting it. But if I get him clear, I'll make him promise to light out. I'll make him promise to leave the state.

[Greg]

So he can rob and steal from folks somewheres elsewhere. No, nothing doing.

[Milt Cummins]

I'll split with you. I'll give you half the thousand. He's going to pay t. No use.

[Greg]

I've decided.

[Milt Cummins]

Why, you psalmsing and hypocritical skunk.

[Masked Man]

You'll do what? Finish it, Greg. You'll do what? Go on. Never mind these guns. They'll stay on their holsters. Finish that threat.

[Milt Cummins]

What's this to you?

[Masked Man]

The moment Tyler told me what happened yesterday at the trial, I knew you'd try to reach Milt. I've been following Milt just to see what your next trick would be. You're as crooked as your client.

[Milt Cummins]

You can't.

[Masked Man]

Like most of your clients, you'll finish in jail or at the end of a rope. I tell you, I have to put you there myself.

[Greg]

Stranger.

[Masked Man]

You're coming with me. Milt, wait.

[Greg]

Listen.

[Masked Man]

I'll listen later. Come along.

[Greg]

Where to?

[Judge Wilkie]

Camp.

[Milt Cummins]

Don't think I didn't mean what I told you, Milt. Don't you think it for a minute and I'll get you too, masked man.

[Masked Man]

You'll have the chance, Greg, because I'll be back. Get aboard, stranger.

[Greg]

I don't say you will.

[Masked Man]

Yep.

[Judge Wilkie]

With you. Come on, Silver. Hello, Silver. Hooray.

[The Lone Ranger]

Silver flashed through the town and raced northward across open rangeland.

[Judge Wilkie]

Come on, old fellow. Stretch out those great legs of yours. Head for the wood.

[Masked Man]

Silver.

[Judge Wilkie]

Thomas. Waiting at camp.

[The Lone Ranger]

The mighty stallion carrying double finally reached a small wood. And there is Master Drew Rain.

[Judge Wilkie]

Oh, boy. Oh, hold on.

[Masked Man]

All right, Mills.

[Greg]

Mister, that was a ride.

[Masked Man]

Dado. What happened? And what we expected. Greg can't afford to let Milt reach court. And Milt won't if Greg can help it. Milt? Yeah. I heard most of your conversation back there. How much of it was true? Has Greg anything on you? Can he get you jailed?

[Greg]

He can, stranger.

[Masked Man]

I see. I won't ask you what's behind it. That's your business, and it's in the past. Right now I'm interested in just two things. Keeping Luke Daly in jail and seeing that Greg joins him there.

[Greg]

Mister, well, I'm going to ask you the same as Greg did. What's all this to you?

[Masked Man]

I want to see justice done. Luke is the kind of criminal who breaks the law with guns. While Greg uses his wits. They're equally dangerous.

[Greg]

Funny talk for a masked man.

[Masked Man]

Let it go.

[Greg]

Just a second. You bring me here without getting my opinion on it. Now I'd like to know what for.

[Masked Man]

To make sure you give your testimony.

[Greg]

You claim to hear what we said. If you did, you ought to know. That's what I aim to do. If Greg permitted It he can have me arrested, sure. But that wasn't going to stop me from saying my say in court.

[Masked Man]

Bullet would. However, Greg evidently hoped to blackmail you into silence.

[Greg]

He can't.

[Masked Man]

But he knows that turning you over to the law won't serve his purpose. He'd get revenge. Yes. If there was nothing else he could do, he'd likely be contented with that.

[Greg]

What are you getting at?

[Masked Man]

Just this. He might want revenge, but he doesn't want it half as much as he wants your silence arrested. You'd still be allowed to testify. And there's only one way you could be stopped. By murder. You.

[Greg]

You really think that I wouldn't have.

[Masked Man]

Taken a hand in this if I didn't?

[Greg]

Murder.

[Masked Man]

Stay with Toto and me until court opens again and you'll be safe. Well, and if you wish.

[Greg]

Yeah?

[Masked Man]

Tell us what Greg has on you and perhaps we can help.

[Greg]

Nobody can.

[Masked Man]

How can you be certain?

[Greg]

And how do I know you ain't just trying to worm it out of me so as you can try some blackmail? How do I know you didn't get the idea when you heard what Greg threatened?

[Masked Man]

You don't know. I can give you my word. But of course, you have no reason to accept it.

[Greg]

Just so.

[Masked Man]

In that case, all I can say is you couldn't be much worse off if you told than you are already. Greg will take care of that.

[Greg]

Oh, God.

[Masked Man]

What is it?

[Greg]

I wish I was to home. I wish I could just sit in Mary's rocking chair for a couple minutes. Yes, then maybe she'd tell me what to do.

[The Lone Ranger]

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.

[Narrator]

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart. With Instacart's family carts, everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus, enjoy free delivery on your first three orders. Service fees and terms apply.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler Got eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't twinkling. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot, CVS and more through Instacart. And enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

[Milt Cummins]

It's been so long. How have you been? Hello.

[Narrator]

I'm doing well, Dave.

[Milt Cummins]

Why are you talking that way?

[Narrator]

Please say one for a compliment or two for a question. Yeah, this is weird.

[Milt Cummins]

I think I'm gonna go.

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[Judge Wilkie]

How can I help you?

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[The Lone Ranger]

Now to continue our story. Three days went by in the cafe where Milt's disappearance was the main subject of conversation. A dozen theories were advanced and.

[Milt Cummins]

You know how it looks to me, fellas?

[Judge Wilkie]

How's that?

[Milt Cummins]

It looks to me like that mast ombre Milt was seen riding away with was some fellow headed in for him. Likely some crook Milt had trouble with that we never heard of. Fellas, I hate to say it, but I bet we don't never see Milt alive again. You agree with me, Judge?

[Judge Wilkie]

Nonsense. Course I don't.

[Milt Cummins]

Why not?

[Judge Wilkie]

Call that blasted paint over there. Sounds something fierce.

[Milt Cummins]

What's that got to do with it?

[Judge Wilkie]

Gets me too mad to agree with nobody. Barkeep.

[Masked Man]

Yeah, Judge?

[Judge Wilkie]

Give all the boys a drink for my private bottle. Not that engine at the end of the bar. Just them, you know.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sure thing.

[Judge Wilkie]

And tell the professor to quit persecuting that poor unresisting pioneer. I'll have him up for disturbing the piece. Right.

[Masked Man]

Cut the opera, Jack.

[Milt Cummins]

You're upsetting the jar. Here comes Zeke.

[Judge Wilkie]

Fred. Now what? Look, Fred, you've got to do me a favor. Do I? Give me another postponement on that trial. Why? For I can't go into court without my main witness. You know doggone well I can. Meaning Milt, of course. Give me another week to try and find him. Just one more week. Still got a couple of days before the trial. A couple of days ain't gonna be enough. Can't help that. But Luke will go free. Zeke, Luke Daly is a. A skunk, a polecat, a mean, ornery coyote or anything else you see fit to call him. But nonetheless, you can't hold a man in jail forever just cause you hope someday to have evidence to keep him there legal. You come to court with a case on the day I set or let Luke go. Gosh, friend. And I always thought we was friends. Uh huh. We are. But that don't count where I'm a judge.

[Milt Cummins]

Heard what you said, Judge. It does you credit.

[Judge Wilkie]

Think so, Greg?

[Milt Cummins]

It's a real pleasure to know my client will be tried by a fair minded man. Poor Luke Friends is a misfortunate victim of circumstances. As an honest fellow as ever drew.

[Judge Wilkie]

Breath, he's the biggest scoundrel ever went unhung.

[Milt Cummins]

But you just said I'd give him.

[Judge Wilkie]

His legal rights and I will. But aside from that, we all know what the varmint is. And we're all hoping he gets what he's asked for. But you all forget it. And drink up folks. The barkeeps filled your glasses. I'm proposing a little toast.

[Milt Cummins]

Let's have it, Fred.

[Judge Wilkie]

Go ahead, John. Well, gents, here's to the lady with the scales in her hands and the bandana across her eyes. Her handles justice. And I'm here now making a promise. Folks, as long as I'm judging this county, that lady's blindfold ain't gonna be thick so tight that once in a while she can't slip it aside to get a peek at the true facts. There. Now let's drink up.

[The Lone Ranger]

An hour later at the masked man's secret camp.

[Masked Man]

And Greg said nothing so far. Tyler. You're sure of that? And bears out what I've suspected.

[Greg]

Mister, I wish you'd let me in on what you got up your sleeve. Look, I've told you all you ask me. You know about me shooting and killing Slim Beckett 15 years back. You know about Greg holding that straightened Slim Roto out, accusing me afore he died. Ain't I done my share? Can't I know what's up?

[Masked Man]

You'll know in good time. First I want to make sure of my facts. But blasted all you trials in two days. Yes, but I want to testify. In the meantime, you're staying in camp. We don't want you killed.

[Greg]

What's the difference between being dry gouged by a crooked lawyer and being hung for killing?

[Masked Man]

I'll see that Greg is told. You'll be in court.

[Greg]

That's what I mean. When I tell my story, Greg's gonna tell his. And even if I don't hang the least, I'll get his Jail?

[Masked Man]

You won't hang and you won't go to jail. Greg's getting the surprise of his life.

[Greg]

You seeing him now?

[Masked Man]

I am. Kind of. Keep Milk safe.

[Milt Cummins]

Me doing?

[Masked Man]

Come on, Silver.

[Judge Wilkie]

Come on, boy.

[The Lone Ranger]

It was evening when the masked man arrived in town. And not long afterwards, the loungers in front of the cafe were startled to see the sheriff burst from his office down the street and come running toward them.

[Judge Wilkie]

Acts like he was robbed again.

[Milt Cummins]

What's that about an outlaw?

[Judge Wilkie]

Hey, Sheriff, what's up? A mask man. He was in my office. Where'd he go? A mask man.

[Milt Cummins]

What was he after? Stealing thing didn't steal a thing.

[Judge Wilkie]

Blast him. But no outlaw is going to force me to answer a lot of foolish questions at the point of a gun and get away with it. I want that feller found. Scour the town, you Rannies. Get that man.

[Milt Cummins]

What's the fuss outside? Something's happened. Back inside, Greg.

[Judge Wilkie]

What?

[Masked Man]

Inside, you hear me?

[Milt Cummins]

What?

[Judge Wilkie]

You.

[Milt Cummins]

The masked man.

[Judge Wilkie]

You.

[Milt Cummins]

The masked man rode off with Milk.

[Masked Man]

There's hurting for me. They'll be here in a second. Now we're just ahead of them. Can they come to the door? Tell them I'm not here.

[Judge Wilkie]

Why you come back here?

[Masked Man]

I'm here to tell. That's them. Answer the door. Send them away.

[Judge Wilkie]

In there. Greg, are you there?

[Masked Man]

Tell them you haven't seen me. Hurry. And don't forget, I'm armed.

[Milt Cummins]

What's the matter?

[Masked Man]

Looking for a masked man.

[Judge Wilkie]

That held up the sheriff.

[Milt Cummins]

Greg got orders to search the town. You seen him, have you?

[The Lone Ranger]

No.

[Milt Cummins]

No, I haven't seen the fellow. Well, thanks. Sorry to bother you.

[Judge Wilkie]

Come on, fellas. My delivery table.

[Milt Cummins]

They're gone.

[Masked Man]

You're lucky, Greg. You've learned how to obey orders.

[Milt Cummins]

What do you want with me?

[Masked Man]

Court reopens the day after tomorrow. Mill's been gone. You've probably been hoping. He planned to stay away until the trial was finished. Until it would be impossible to call him for a witness against Luke Daly.

[Milt Cummins]

What's he going to do?

[Masked Man]

He'll be at that trial, Greg, and he'll testify for the prosecution.

[Milt Cummins]

A fool.

[Masked Man]

And in the meantime, forget any idea you may have of finding him. We know you'd like to close his mouth. You won't. He's hidden. And he'll remain hidden until the trial begins.

[Milt Cummins]

That's what you come for to tell me that, right? You know where Milt is?

[Masked Man]

I do.

[Milt Cummins]

Then you tell him something for me. Well, you tell him I said if he figures I was bluffing, he's made a Mistake?

[Masked Man]

Bluffing.

[Milt Cummins]

He'll know what I mean. Just tell him that in them same words.

[Masked Man]

Well, I will.

[Milt Cummins]

And when you've done it, mister, don't be surprised. Surprised if Milt ain't half so anxious to get to court as you seem to think.

[The Lone Ranger]

The day of the trial arrived. The courtroom was crowded. And when the doors opened to admit Milk Cummings. A wave of excitement swept through the place.

[Judge Wilkie]

Quiet. Matthew. Milt. About time. Peeks nearly half a fit. Take your seat beside him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Greg was seated beside Luke Daly at a table. The lawyer glanced at Milt nervously.

[Milt Cummins]

And he did show up. I never figured he'd have the nerve. When they come right to it. He's gonna testify. You said he wouldn't. You promised it. What kind of a lawyer are you anyhow? Hush up, will you? You want the judge to hear you. You want to spy on everything completely? Sure, I'll hush up.

[Greg]

But you listen to me, Greg.

[Milt Cummins]

Now, Luke, you'll be took care of for this. I got friends. They'll see to it.

[Greg]

And when they do, Greg, you'll wish.

[Milt Cummins]

It stayed out of the law and took a punch. And instead. Am I to blame?

[Judge Wilkie]

What do I care?

[Milt Cummins]

I wanted a lawyer to get me clear. And you proved you couldn't handle the job.

[Judge Wilkie]

Silence. Silence. All right, Zeke, go ahead. My first witness will be Milt Cummins. Take the stand, Milt.

[Milt Cummins]

Sure, Judge.

[Judge Wilkie]

Clem, swear the witness in.

[Milt Cummins]

Soundly swear. Tell the truth, the whole truth, none but the truth.

[Masked Man]

Salvia.

[Greg]

I do.

[Milt Cummins]

I'll fix Milt. Luke, see this paper? It's that statement I told you about. Wait till I shove this in front of Milt's face. Your Honor.

[Judge Wilkie]

What is it?

[Milt Cummins]

Just one second. I got something to say to the witness.

[Judge Wilkie]

You're out of order. Get back to your seat.

[Milt Cummins]

I want to remind the witness. And if he don't tell the truth, he can be jailed first.

[Judge Wilkie]

Get back. Get back.

[Milt Cummins]

I got it here, Milt. Slim statement. And by heavens, I'll use it.

[Judge Wilkie]

Greg, you're in contempt of court. Clem, grab ahold of him. Get him. Make him sit down.

[Milt Cummins]

I apologize, you, Honor. I forgot myself.

[Judge Wilkie]

Well, I'll overlook it just this once. But if it happens again, it'll cost you a penny. Now sit down.

[Milt Cummins]

Yes, your Honor.

[Judge Wilkie]

Stay where you are.

[Masked Man]

What was that?

[Greg]

That's him.

[Judge Wilkie]

That's the masked man. Get him.

[Masked Man]

Fellas.

[Judge Wilkie]

Hold him for me.

[Masked Man]

Those cops are a warning. The first man to lay a hand on me will be sorry for it. Now to watch them.

[Milt Cummins]

Me watch them?

[Judge Wilkie]

This here's a court of law. Well, what's going on here? Bless me if I ever seen the beat, Sheriff.

[Masked Man]

Hold it, you.

[Milt Cummins]

Greg, get back.

[Masked Man]

You've got a paper there with writing on it. That paper contains a dying statement of a man accusing his killer. Turn that paper over to the sheriff.

[Judge Wilkie]

I won't.

[Greg]

Oh, bless your masked man. You're double crossing me.

[Judge Wilkie]

You said you'd see I wouldn't hang or go to jail.

[Greg]

Now you're giving that paper to the law.

[Masked Man]

Trust me, Mills.

[Judge Wilkie]

You lied to me. You lied to me.

[Masked Man]

Take that.

[Milt Cummins]

No, you don't.

[Masked Man]

Don't try to get away.

[Milt Cummins]

Bless you.

[Judge Wilkie]

Blast you.

[Masked Man]

Hey, Archer, what was under this? Read it.

[Greg]

Why'd you do it, Nast? Man, you promised me. You said I could trust you.

[Masked Man]

That statement won't get you in trouble, and Greg here knew it. He took advantage of your ignorance, Judge.

[Judge Wilkie]

Huh?

[Milt Cummins]

What?

[Judge Wilkie]

Oh. Well, it's about time somebody paid little attention to me.

[Masked Man]

Milt has told me his story. Fifteen years ago, he got in a gunfight with a man named Slim Beckett. He wounded Slim in a fair fight, but he had no witnesses to prove it, except for Greg here.

[Judge Wilkie]

Slim Beckett. I've heard that name before.

[Masked Man]

You have? He was an outlaw with a price on his head. But Milt didn't know it. When Greg got the dying statement from Slim accusing Milt of his death, Milt thought Gregg had a hold over him. The fact is, Milt not only did society a favor when he killed Slim, but there's still reward money waiting for him.

[Judge Wilkie]

That's why you held me up in my office and asked all them questions. You was making sure Slim was the fellow you had in mind. Right then.

[Greg]

Then that explains why Greg didn't want to show that statement even after threatening he would. I could only be scared by it as long as he didn't use it so as I could find out the truth.

[Masked Man]

Correct.

[Greg]

And I said you was double crossing me.

[Judge Wilkie]

Well, doggone. Hold on, hold on. There's still a trial to be held here, Sheriff. Arrest Greg there for a contempt of court, obstructing justice, intimidating witnesses and getting me some. Man, I can't digest my dinner. And you, masked man, I want you to. Well, I'll be switched if he ain't gone. Old Pilbar away.

[Narrator]

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart with Instacart's family carts. Everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and terms apply.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't twinkling. Whatever the this season, Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot, CVS and more through Instacart and enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

[Andrew Rines]

Hi, this is Keith from Lewis Jewelers.

[Milt Cummins]

It all starts with a ring. It's designed by you and handcrafted by us right here in the great city of Ann Arbor. We look forward to celebrating your moments at Lewis Jewelers sa.

[The Lone Ranger]

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 like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

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