The Best of Friends | The Lone Ranger (10-16-40)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns – "The Best of Friends" | The Lone Ranger (10-16-40)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: October 16, 1940 (Podcast release: September 21, 2025)

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Overview of the Episode

In this digitally restored presentation of a classic Lone Ranger broadcast, "The Best of Friends," listeners are treated to a timeless tale of friendship, misunderstanding, and reconciliation in the Old West. At the heart of the story are two lifelong friends, Ebenezer ("Eben") and Baldy (Sid Sherwood), whose camaraderie is tested by jealousy and pride following the arrival of Eben's niece, Carolyn, from Virginia. As the two old men bicker over perceived slights and mishandled gifts, the intervention of the Lone Ranger and Tonto leads to a subtle but poignant lesson on cooperation, perspective, and the value of enduring friendship.

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Key Discussion Points and Story Progression

1. Setting the Stage: Friendship on the Brink

• Characters Introduced:
  • Ebenezer (“Eben”)—elderly recluse struggling with rheumatism
  • Baldy (Sid Sherwood)—his cantankerous but loyal friend
  • Carolyn—Eben's vivacious niece from Virginia
• The arrival of Carolyn stirs up old insecurities and jealousy, souring the once inseparable friendship:
  • “[Baldy is] nothing but a frickin old pipsqueak.” – Eben (06:37)
  • Carolyn expresses her concern for their fading friendship, leading to comical and heartfelt exchanges about gift-giving (fur coat, rifle) and who is more entitled to Carolyn's affection.

Memorable Moment [07:15]:

“Jealousy, that's all. The green-eyed monster. That's known as jealousy. It's eatin the innards out in Baldy. That's what it's doing. It soured his soul and turned his brain to cornmeal mush.”
— Ebenezer (07:15)

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2. Gifts Turned Grievances: The Catalyst for Conflict

• Tension escalates as old men misinterpret each other’s intentions when exchanging gifts, escalating their rivalry.
• Both decide to get rid of the unwanted presents: Baldy tries to sell his rifle; Eben considers selling his fur coat.
  • Both enter into secret arrangements to sell their gifts—the rifle to the Lone Ranger (incognito) and the coat to Tonto.
• Each agrees to deliver the items covertly to a camp by Frozen River, using Carolyn as the errand-runner—unaware the other has done the same.

Quote [14:33]:

“I'll sell you the coat, Injun. How much you figure to pay?”
— Ebenezer (14:33)

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3. The Lone Ranger’s Mediation: Crafting a Subtle Intervention

• The Lone Ranger (masked, as ever) and Tonto orchestrate a scenario to teach the quarreling friends a lesson:
  • They ensure both items—the fur coat and the rifle—are to be delivered by Carolyn to the same place.
  • The plan is laid to have Carolyn temporarily “disappear” at the camp so the old men must work together to find her.

Notable Reveal [17:01]:

“Silver bullet mask. White horse. Jumping Susan. The Lone Ranger.”
— Baldy, recognizing the Lone Ranger’s identity (17:01)

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4. Carolyn Caught in the Middle: The Ordeal on Frozen River

• Carolyn, dutiful but reluctant, delivers both coat and rifle, then follows the Lone Ranger’s plan to “miss her way.”
• Eben and Baldy, realizing Carolyn is overdue, finally admit to each other they both sent her on a task.
• Panic and guilt over her safety override their squabbling as they team up:
  • Eben provides the eyesight, Baldy his legs; together, they brave a snowstorm.

Touching Exchange [24:25]:

“You need eyes. Get a rig, fix Baldy and a strong team. And make it fast. … We can't lose no time.”
— Ebenezer (24:25)

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5. Climax and Resolution: Rediscovering Cooperation

• Guided by clues (fur snagged on branches, rifle shots), they find Carolyn safe, injured only with a twisted ankle.
• The realization dawns: both gifts were necessary for her rescue, and their complementary strengths saved Carolyn.
• Around the hearth, their friendship rekindles, with mutual borrowing and banter over the coat and rifle.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto’s plan has succeeded—without ever overtly meddling, they nudge the friends back together.

Heartwarming Dialogue [27:45]:

“If it wasn't for both the rifle and the coat, I mightn't be here right now. … And if it hadn't been for both of you men working together, you wouldn't have found me.”
— Carolyn (27:45)

Reconciliation [29:03]:

“Maybe I can borrow your rifle when the weather's warm and nice again. I can sit out front and drop wild turkeys that get close.”
— Ebenezer (29:03)
“I'd admire to let you borrow it, Eben.”
— Baldy (29:14)

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6. Memorable Quotes & Scenes with Timestamps

| Timestamp | Quote | Speaker | |-----------|-------|---------| | 07:15 | “Jealousy, that's all. The green eyed monster… It soured his soul and turned his brain to cornmeal mush.” | Ebenezer | | 17:01 | “Silver bullet mask. White horse. Jumping Susan. The Lone Ranger.” | Baldy | | 24:25 | “You need eyes. Get a rig, fix Baldy and a strong team. And make it fast.” | Ebenezer | | 27:45 | “If it wasn't for both the rifle and the coat, I mightn't be here right now.” | Carolyn | | 29:03 | “Maybe I can borrow your rifle when the weather's warm.” | Ebenezer | | 29:14 | “I'd admire to let you borrow it, Eben.” | Baldy |

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• [05:06] – Introduction and set-up of the Lone Ranger theme
• [06:05–13:35] – Carolyn’s arrival, escalating conflict and humorous exchanges between Baldy and Eben
• [13:35–17:48] – The deals with the Lone Ranger & Tonto; both old men plot to outshine the other
• [18:33–21:46] – Carolyn's departure for Frozen River and the Lone Ranger's plan explained
• [22:05–24:39] – Eben and Baldy realize Carolyn is missing and set out together
• [25:20–27:10] – The rescue on Frozen River; realization of teamwork
• [27:10–30:07] – Heartfelt reconciliation, return of gifts, and humorous acceptance

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Summary and Takeaway

"The Best of Friends" is a humorous, touching example of how misunderstandings can be overcome by collaboration and care for others. The Lone Ranger and Tonto, by gently nudging Eben and Baldy into a moment of crisis, help the men rediscover both their friendship and the ways in which they complete each other. The episode is brimming with vintage Western humor, uniquely styled colloquialisms, and lessons about pride, trust, and gratitude—captured in the banter and, ultimately, the warmth of two “stove in old men” who are, together, far more than the sum of their parts.

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For new and old fans alike, this episode exemplifies the heart of classic radio Westerns: timeless lessons, colorful characters, and the power of friendship, all brought to new life by careful digital restoration.

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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 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.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Hearty hi O Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger.

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[Carolyn]

Dad, please.

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[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tonto, the masked rider of the plains fought crime and criminals throughout the early days of the western United States. No one could match his strength and courage. His daring and resourcefulness. And 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.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Come on Silver.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

We're heading for frozen river.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'll til my Hawaii.

[Narrator]

Ebenezer and Baldy were fairly old men. They had been pals and partners for most of their lives and lived together near their mind. Rheumatism made it difficult for Ebenezer to move far from his fireside. But since the recent arrival of his niece Carolyn from Virginia, he had been very contented. Until one day.

[Carolyn]

Uncle Eben, there's something wrong.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh nonsense, Caroline. What could be wrong? We got a comfortable house, plenty of firewood, and now you've come to live with us.

[Carolyn]

That's just the point. When I first came here, you and Baldy were as thick as two peas in a pod. I never saw two men that thought more of one another.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Now never mind Baldy. You tell me more about Virginie.

[Carolyn]

I want to talk about you and Baldy, Uncle Evan. Now there's no need snorting like that.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I don't want to talk about Baldy. He's changed.

[Carolyn]

I don't know about that.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Cantankerous old weasel. He. He's turned into nothing but a frickin old pipsqueak.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Your regular old woman.

[Carolyn]

That's exactly what I want to talk about. When I used to get a letter from you once in a while. Before daddy died, you always say. And how fine bald he was. And what good friends the two of you were not. Since I've been here I. I've noticed things.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

It's him, that's all. I'm same as I've always been.

[Carolyn]

I don't know about that.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Well I do, Caroline. And I'd sooner have no more to say. That calls for mentioning Baldy at all.

[Carolyn]

Uncle Evan, what's the trouble between you two?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Nothing.

[Carolyn]

Have you had a row about the gold claim you own?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

No.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Shucks, no.

[Carolyn]

Then what is it?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Jealousy, that's all. The green eyed monster. That's known as jealousy. It's eatin the innards out in Baldy. That's what it's doing. It soured his soul and turned his brain to cornmeal mush.

[Carolyn]

But what in the world is Baldy jealous about?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh, it's on account of you being a blood relation of mine. That's what's ranklin his mind.

[Carolyn]

That's so silly. Why call him uncle the same as I do you. I know him as well as I do you. I never saw either one of you before I came here. Why in the world is he jealous?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That's what riles me. He's got equal claim on you. You just said so.

[Carolyn]

But Uncle Anthony, you call him uncle.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Same as you do. Me and him no relation. Tall. That's what's got to him. He's stuck up. He's got so upperty a man can't talk to him no more.

[Carolyn]

Uncle Eben, if my being here is going to break up your friendship.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What's more, he's rubbing it in now. Look what he went and done my birthday. He sent all the way to Frisco and ordered that fur coat for riding. When he knows dog gone well, I'll never straddle a horse again.

[Carolyn]

But he meant.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Well, he meant nothing but orneriness. That's what he meant. He gives me that fur coat as much as to say he's given me a present. Cause he's got to. But he'll be hanged if he'll give me something I can use.

[Carolyn]

But uncle Edward, didn't you give him the same sort of a present?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I didn't give him no jacket. I give him a rifle and a good un.

[Carolyn]

Yes, but he's so nearly blind that he can't use a rifle.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'll fix him precious little good he'll get out in that rifle.

[Carolyn]

So silly and so impossible. If you two are going to go on like this, I'll go back east.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

You can't do it. You ain't got no relatives to live with there.

[Carolyn]

I'll find something to do. I'll work. I'd sooner do anything than to stay. If my staying is going to make a break between you and your friend.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Now you're my blood relation, Caroline, and you're staying here. If that bald headed sawed off galoot don't like it here by ginger he's free to move whenever he wants to.

[Carolyn]

Aren't you all wrong about Baldy?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

No sir.

[Carolyn]

He took the rifle when he left the house today.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I can see through him like he was windy glass. He figures to sell the rifle to the first pilgrim he meets. Then come and laugh at me because I ain't able to move about to sell that no account hunk a skunk for. I'll bet right now Baldy's chewing with some stranger trying to persuade him to buy that rifle I paid good money for.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

That's just about what he's a doing. You never get another chance like this to buy a rifle, stranger.

[Carolyn]

Take a look at her.

[Narrator]

It certainly is a beautiful weapon.

[Carolyn]

Say, hold on.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Let me see you closer. My Ginger. Ain't that a mask on your face? Yes, I thought so. My eyes ain't what they might be. That's why I hankered a seller. Rifle taint no good to me. But it's a good un for a man that's got shooting eyes. You're an outlaw, huh?

[Narrator]

No, I'm not an outlaw.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

But mask, well, don't matter none to me. This is a chance to buy a fine rifle. I'll sell it real cheap.

[Narrator]

But I don't need a rifle.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

You gotta buy it. It'll do me a heap of good to tell that skinny old cusset I sold her to an out well anyhow. Masked man who? The goot that gave it to me is a present. We've been pards for years till his sister's daughter come here and he seen how pretty she was. And ever since he's been lording it over me.

[Narrator]

And you're not friends anymore?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm fed up with a crazy sidewinder. Every time that girl looks at me, he gets up and starts limping and working his rheumatic legs till she's all sobbing sorry for him. I never seed a man make such a fool of hisself over an 18 year old young un.

[Narrator]

Men who have been friends for a long time shouldn't break up so eas.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Well, we're breaking. As soon as I can find another place to stay, I'm moving out in the house. Now look, stranger, will you buy the rifle?

[Narrator]

Perhaps I will.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Good. Then take her. And if you ain't the catch, I'll trust you.

[Narrator]

Not yet, huh? I don't want to take the rifle just yet.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

But why?

[Narrator]

Well, there are reasons that I can't explain just now. What's your name?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Sid Sherwood. But everyone calls me Baldy. I don't mind none.

[Narrator]

I'll tell you what, Baldy. You know where the cafe in town is?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I should.

[Narrator]

Then I'll meet you there tonight.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Tonight? Seeks a life. For what?

[Narrator]

To finish the deal. You come and bring the rifle with you.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

And you'll buy her then?

[Narrator]

Yes. But there's one condition.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

What's the condition?

[Narrator]

It mustn't be known that I am buying a rifle.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Then maybe you are an outlaw, huh? It's all right, stranger. I won't make no mention of it to anyone.

[Narrator]

Remember that.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Sure thing. I'll remember.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

And I'll see you at the cafe tonight.

[Narrator]

Right. Come on there, Silver. During the afternoon, the Lone Ranger learned more about the two old men and the fur coat that had been Eben's gift from Baldy. That night, Eben was sitting in his usual place before the fire and Baldy came out of his bedroom.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

And look at the doggone old fool. Slicked up like he was going to a wedding party.

[Carolyn]

Oh, how nice you look, Uncle Baldy.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm going out.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

He looks like a fool. What you do to plaster your hair down? Where you got any hair?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Seems like there's certain folks here that's pretty jealous when they see a man dressed up.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Seems like there's someone here that's doggone mysterious about his business.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

My business happens to be private.

[Carolyn]

Stop it, both of you.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

All right, honey. I didn't mean to.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Now, don't you call her honey. She ain't no ways a relation to you.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

You don't know her any better than I do.

[Carolyn]

Will you please stop it?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm hanged if I blame you, Caroline, for getting head up. Must be downright tiresome to spend all your time setting with a rheumatic old man.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Why, dad rat you Bart in your wind.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Ain't none too much and can't be wastin it.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

By thunderation, if you could handle a gun, I'd offer to duel you.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

You'd have to set while you done it.

[Carolyn]

I'm not stand for any more of this fightin and bickering. If you two can't get along, then I'll get out of here.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Don't let the old man catch cold. Caroline.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

You blast it all, Caroline. I never can think of things to say to him while you're here. Granted, I'm plumb without words to use when I can't use some of my best cussing words. Did he take the rifle along with him?

[Carolyn]

Yes, he did.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Thought I seen him take it from the corner. Like he's not he's going somewheres to sell it. Ugly old fool.

[Carolyn]

Oh, Uncle Evan.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What's that? Hey, who are you?

[Tonto]

Me, Tonto, an Indian.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What's the idea of you walking in like this? Get my gun, Caroline. Get it fast.

[Tonto]

You not get gun you here, Tonto.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What do you want here? Did Baldy send you to scalp me or something?

[Tonto]

No. Me hear you got good fur, huh? Fur got fur coat.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh, yeah, I got a fur coat. What about it?

[Tonto]

Maybe you want sell it, huh?

[Carolyn]

Of course, he doesn't want to sell a fur coat.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Now, hold on there, Caroline. Where'd you hear that, redskin?

[Tonto]

Oh, me here. You sell fur coat.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'd sure admire to see an Injun wearing that coat around town. You want to buy it, eh?

[Carolyn]

Injun?

[Tonto]

Maybe.

[Carolyn]

Oh, Uncle Eben, you can't sell your coat. It was a gift.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Don't tell me what I want to do. That coyote's out pedaling. The rifle I gave him. I'll get square. I'll sell you the coat, Injun. How much you figure to pay?

[Tonto]

Me get money tomorrow in mornin. Me buy coat.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'll sell it. You just get some cash here.

[Tonto]

Me pay 50$. Well, tain't much, but you send coat to Tonto.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Send it. I got it right here. You can take it.

[Tonto]

Tonto not take it. That'd be bad. You send it.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I reckon if you were seen around here with my coat, someone figured you stole it, eh?

[Tonto]

Not right. Well, where the sender you send to? North Trail. North Trail? Near frozen river. Me wait there.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That's a pretty long ways. And in cold weather like this, I'd never make it.

[Tonto]

My legs ain't what they send coat there.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'll try and find a way to get her there.

[Tonto]

You not say you sell coat to Tonto?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh, you don't want me to say so. Well, all right. And I won't say nothing. I'll get the coat to you somehow.

[Tonto]

Me bring money in morning.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That'll be all right. Oh, Caroline, you'll do your old Uncle Eben a favor, won't you?

[Carolyn]

Take that coat to the frozen river up north, huh?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Would you do it, honey? Taint a hard trip for a healthy girl like you. Baldy selling the rifle I gave him. It'd be just fair and square, wouldn't it now?

[Carolyn]

I suppose so. Baldy sells the gift you gave him.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That's what he's a doing right now. I've take my life on it.

[Narrator]

We're agreed then, Boldy?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Agreed, stranger.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

And you'll get one of the finest rifles that's been made. It's a doggone shame I can't use my own self. If I could, I wouldn't let her go at 10 times the price.

[Narrator]

There's only one thing you'll have to agree to do.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What's that?

[Narrator]

As I've explained It would be awkward for me to be seen around town with a new rifle. Might make lots of people question you about me. You'll have to send that rifle to my camp.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Now, where's that at?

[Narrator]

Follow the trail north from town to frozen river.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I can't follow no trail.

[Narrator]

You can find someone to send with a rifle, can't you? What about that girl? Your niece, Isn't she well? She let her deliver the rifle to me.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I don't know about that.

[Narrator]

It'll be no trip at all for a girl who can ride.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I reckon not.

[Narrator]

Baldy. You don't trust me, do you?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

It's that doggone mask I like. Your style and all else but that bare mask. Hang it on.

[Narrator]

I can't take off the mask, Baldy. But I can show you something that may tell you why I wear the mask.

[Carolyn]

Huh?

[Narrator]

This bullet.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

What's about a bullet?

[Narrator]

Look at it closely. You can see well enough at close range.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Is he silver?

[Narrator]

That's right.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Silver bullet mask. White horse. Jumping Susan. The Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

But what do you want to buy my rifle fer? Why do you want it sent to your camp?

[Narrator]

Will you send it there?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

No.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Gonna will hang it all. You do some mighty odd things from what I hear. But you always got a reason for them.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

This shootin iron will be at your.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Camp in the morning. Count on that, Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

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

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[Narrator]

Now, to continue our story, Tahoe arranged to buy Eben's coat and the Lone Ranger Baldy's gun. Both articles were to be sent by Carolyn to a camp on Frozen River. And the next morning, both Eben and Baldy tried to speak to the girl alone. Finally.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Well, I reckon I'll step outside and.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Get some fresh air.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Good.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I say good.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I reckon I need it. The air in here is right bad.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

You're right, Juan. Step outside.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Too bad you can't do the same.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Evan, if when you go, the air in here will be all right again. I won't need to.

[Carolyn]

What'd I tell you two about this bickering?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm downright sorry, Caroline. It's your uncle's fault for rilin me like he does. Caroline.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Caroline, now's your chance.

[Carolyn]

Uncle Eb and I hurry now and.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Take the fur coat and skip out the back way while Baldy ain't here.

[Carolyn]

Are you sure you want me to take her to that Indian?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'm sure, Aunt.

[Carolyn]

Maybe he didn't sell the rifle last night. He'd have said something about it if he had.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

All the better.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'll get the first laugh. Now hurry, honey, and don't let your old uncle down.

[Carolyn]

I hate to be a party to a thing like this.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh, never mind that.

[Carolyn]

I'd a lot sooner leave here myself.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

It makes your poor old uncle die in misery for thinking about you.

[Carolyn]

Oh, Uncle Ev.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Oh, go on, mosey along and see to it that you bundle up good. There's a sharp wind.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Outdoor. Caroline. Caroline, honey.

[Carolyn]

Oh, yes, Baldy.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Caroline, I've been wanting a chance to speak to you this morning. That's why I come outside. I hoped you'd come out in the house.

[Carolyn]

What is it, Baldy?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

What's that you got there?

[Carolyn]

Calabin's coat. It's pretty cold and I thought I might need it to keep warm.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Oh, I savvy. Look, you must be going somewhere then.

[Carolyn]

Well, yes. I had a couple of errands to do, Baldy.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Why, honey, there's a favor I want to ask of you. I'd sure appreciate it a plenty if you'd do something for me.

[Carolyn]

What is it?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

It's that rifle Evan gave me. It's that American old chick. Now, if you just take her up the trail north as far as frozen river.

[Carolyn]

What for?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Why, Caroline, there's a man there, a masked man that'll be waiting for you. He'll buy that rifle from you.

[Carolyn]

A mask man.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I know it's asking the heap of you, but for a special reason I can't go my own self. Will you do it for me?

[Carolyn]

Oh, Uncle Baldy, you haven't any idea. But look north tail to the frozen river. I'll do it for you. Yes, I'll take the rifle up north tail to frozen river. I'll start right now.

[Narrator]

An hour later, Carolyn found the camp where the Lone Ranger and Toto were waiting. They took her into the shelter of a lean tomb. But when she offered them the coat and the rifle. We haven't any desire to buy them toto and I hope to see our plan work out. Those old men have been friends for a good many years. They're on the verge of breaking up.

[Carolyn]

You know about that?

[Narrator]

Yes, I know about it.

[Carolyn]

I feel miserable when I think of Baldy and my Uncle Eben.

[Narrator]

I thought you might. And that's why I felt we could count on your help.

[Carolyn]

My help?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Carolyn]

I'd do anything to bring those cronies together again. The trouble is, I don't know what to do. If I left, each will blame the other for my going, and they'd be more bitter than ever.

[Narrator]

You must go away. I must, but not for very long. Listen to the plan I have in mind. If you'll help, it might bring everything out the way you want it. Volya and Evan waited for Carolyn's return. But as the hours passed, they grew more and more nervous.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

At last.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I should never have done it. Oh, Crickety, if anything has happened to that girl, why, she should have been.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Back hours ago, eh?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

What's that you say, Wally?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Eben, it's all my fault. All my fault, that's what it is. I sent her out in this cold and wind to meet a critic.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

You? Oh, you're loco as usual, Baldy. It was me that sent her out. I sent her to take that dead, ratted fur coat you give me to a redskin.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Is that why she was toting the coat? But that don't matter now. I'm the one she was doing a favor for. I talked her into taking that darn shooting iron you give me to sell to a masked man.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

A masked man? Yes, a crook. Why, that's worse than sending her to see a redskin.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I know it is, Evan. I shouldn't never have done it. But I figured that it'd be all right in this case. I would have swore that he was the man that's known as the Lone Ranger.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

The Lone Ranger?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

That's what I thought. Evan. Hang it all. I figured it wasn't far for her to go and that she'd be getting back in no time at all.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Where to did she go?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

The frozen river.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Where to?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I said the frozen river. That's where she was to take the rifle.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

But that's where she was going with the fur.

[Carolyn]

What?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

It's a trick, that's what it is. That masked man in the red skin was in cahoots. I see it all now, as plain as day. Oh, cracky. Eben, we gotta do something. We gotta go after him.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

If anything happens to Caroline, it's your fault. It's all your fault. You hadn't given me that coat in the first place.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

What about you giving me the rifle?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

We got to do something.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

We've got to. Now go out and hunt for her. There'll be a trail.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That won't help none. You couldn't see to follow a trail.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I got to.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I'm going.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

You? Why? Them legs of yours ain't no good.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I got to. I can see trail marks. She didn't go on horseback, did she?

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Don't reckon so.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Look, Wally, you got to hitch up a buckboard and help get me aboard.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Ain't no good, Eaven. Crippled like you are, you wouldn't be no good. We gotta both go. I'll do what walkin has to be done and you do what seein is needed. We got to go and stick together.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

All right. Help me to that door.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Let me see what the weather is like now. My legs. Lean onto me. Evan, you get to the door.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That'll be all right. Open her up and let's have a look.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Sounds bad.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Snow's blowing hard, but we've got to do it. Baldy.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I can do it better alone.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

You need eyes. Get a rig, fix Baldy and a strong team. And make it fast. It gets dark real early these days and we can't lose no time.

[Narrator]

The two old men defied the cold and whistling wind. They guided the big team through the snow toward Frozen River. At the same time, the Lone Ranger and T remain close by to ensure their safety. Be careful they don't see us.

[Tonto]

Tata, you watch out.

[Narrator]

They both deserve a lesson, but I don't want anything to happen to them. We've got to make sure they find Carolyn.

[Tonto]

That's right. Maybe them get lost in storm.

[Narrator]

That's why we've got to watch them every step of the way. To see that no harm comes to them. The two old men continued their trip. Finally, Evans headed the camp, which seemed to have been abandoned, then pointed ahead Brooks to be.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Some fir catched off the coat on the tree right ahead.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Tell me when to stop the haunches.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Now. Whoa.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Whoa there.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Get down, Baldy, and see if that ain't fir. Right on the low branch there beside us.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I got it. It's fir, all right, Evan. And we're still all right. Listen, there's another. Another. Evan, that's a repeating rifle like you.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Give me where them shorts come from. That way. Then let's get there. Come on.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Get up there. Get up. Get up there.

[Narrator]

Guided by the rifle shots, the two old men fought their Way through the snow until they came to a gully. Evan saw the girl lying in the snow at the bottom wrapped in a heavy fur coat.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Is it her? Sure.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Caroline, honey, are you all right?

[Carolyn]

I'm all right, but get me out of here. I just twisted my ankle. I can't walk very well.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'll help you out in there, Caroline. Just a minute now. I'm coming down.

[Carolyn]

Be careful. You don't fit, Baldy.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm all right. There now. Can you stand?

[Carolyn]

I can stand all right. Just let me lean on you and I'll be all right.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Now come on. We got the horses in a rig here. Get you home in no time at all. Poor younger you. This must have been enough to scare the daylights out here. Just leave on me.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

That's it. Now here, take my hand. Let me help you to the wagon.

[Carolyn]

I'm not hurt too badly. I knew the rifle shots would bring help sooner or later.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Get aboard now. Bundle yourself tight in that fur so she don't get too cold.

[Carolyn]

I'd likely have frozen if it hadn't been for the fur coat.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

How can you come to get lost like that?

[Carolyn]

Must have missed the camp I was looking for and got starved on the wrong direction.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Marriage them horses, Baldy, and get for home.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Get up there. Get up there.

[Narrator]

Warm and comfortable in front of the big fireplace. Carolyn sat on the floor between the two old men. Neither of them spoke for a long time. They seemed to be thinking. And then.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

If it hadn't been for having my fur coat, you'd assure froze Caroline.

[Carolyn]

I guess I sure would have, Uncle Ethan.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

It's my rifle that fetched us though.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

We followed the trail of bits of fur that ketched on trees.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

But we'd have gone right by that gully if Caroline hadn't fired the rifle. And fast. So as we'd knowed it was that fine repeater.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Maybe so.

[Carolyn]

Don't you see? If it wasn't for both the rifle and the coat, I mightn't be here right now.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Well.

[Carolyn]

And if it hadn't been for both of you men working together, you wouldn't have found me.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Well, I've been thinking of that.

[Carolyn]

It took your eyes, Uncle Evan, to spot the clues.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Yep, that's right.

[Carolyn]

But you couldn't have done much about him if it hadn't been for Uncle Baldy having the use of his legs.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Gesso.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Ebenezer, I've been thinking.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Me too.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

What are you thinking?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Well, here we are. A couple of stove in old men each of us. Ain't much More than half a man.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Yep, that's what I was thinking. Takes the two of us working together to do what either one of us could have done 20 years ago. We should have split up then.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Shoulda, but didn't.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Didn't then, shouldn't now.

[Carolyn]

That's just it. Like care so much for both of you that I'm unhappy when you aren't. Good things.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Look, Caroline, you didn't get to see the engine to complete the sale of the Colt, did you?

[Carolyn]

I didn't sell it.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'm sort of glad you didn't sell the rifle neither. It's a right fine rifle. I reckon maybe I'd better clean it and run some tallow through the barrel. Don't do to let a fine rifle stand around without cleaning.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Baldy, while you're up to get the rifle, would you mind handing down that there fur coat? No, but the heat ain't so good at this side of the fireplace. And I reckon that coat will feel good around my shoulders.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

There you are. But maybe I could borrow it when I go out.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Sure you can. Maybe I can borrow your rifle when the weather's warm and nice again. I can sit out front and drop wild turkeys that get close.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

I'd admire to let you borrow it, Eben.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Thank you, Baldy.

[Carolyn]

There, you see? You each bought the thing you like the best of all and gave those things to each other.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

You're too misunderstanding.

[Carolyn]

Suspicious old Faheed at you. Oh, it's the Indian.

[Tonto]

He comes, he bouts fur coat.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Shut that door. The Colt's coming in.

[Tonto]

You sell fur coat?

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

No, dad Rattit. No, I ain't a selling this fur. Not for nothing.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

And if you see that masked man, tell him the rifle ain't for sale neither. That settles that.

[Carolyn]

Oh, if you only knew. Uncle Evan. Uncle Baldy.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

I still can't figure out what that masked man in the Redskin wanted the coat and rifle for. Or why Duncan.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

They were so doggone funny about having Caroline come to meet him in the same place on Frozen River.

[Carolyn]

Don't try to figure it out. You're a laugh. You too, old darlings. You don't even understand your own minds. So don't try to understand the Lone Ranges.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Oh, get over away. SA.

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[Narrator]

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

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

Foreign.

[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.

[Ebenezer (Eben)]

Become one.

[Andrew Rines]

Of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank our most recent ranch hands, Steve and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcast trwesterns.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.

[Baldy (Sid Sherwood)]

SA.