The Broken Promise | Ranger Bill (04-18-56)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns: "The Broken Promise" (Ranger Bill, 04-18-56)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Air Date: April 18, 1956
Podcast Release Date: June 27, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns features the Ranger Bill story "The Broken Promise," a tale centering on trust, integrity, and community. When Ezra Newcomb sells his ranch under the verbal agreement that the local hot rod club can keep using its drag strip, the new Eastern owner, Todd Stone, soon breaks his promise. The story unfolds with the young club members, their relationship with Ezra, and Ranger Bill’s creative efforts to right the wrong in a manner both just and clever.

The restored audio brings a new depth to classic scenes of the American West—enhancing both storytelling and atmosphere, as the podcast continues its mission to preserve and elevate vintage radio drama.

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Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. The Sale and the Promise

• Ezra Newcomb decides to sell his ranch to Todd Stone, with a critical (but unwritten) agreement: the hot rod club keeps access to their beloved drag strip.
  • Ezra (04:52): “I gave my word that we'd make a deal, and my word's as good as gold.”
  • Todd Stone assures (05:13): “You have my word that the drag strip will be left open for the youngsters to use.”
• Ezra worries that without this promise in writing, things could go awry.

2. Hot Rod Club’s Concerns

• The hot rod club boys (Larry, Shorty, Muff) fret upon hearing of the sale, fearing loss of their racing spot.
  • Shorty (07:09): “What about our drag strip? I thought Ezra was our friend. Sure looks like he sold us out.”
• They seek reassurance from Ezra and are relieved by his integrity (08:35):
  • Ezra: “The man who bought the ranch, Todd Stone, promised to let you still use the race track, just like you’ve done for the past couple years.”
  • Muff: "Hey, you’re really a solid fella, Ezra."

3. Stone’s True Intentions Revealed

• As soon as Ezra is out, Todd Stone privately orders his foreman Lefty to close the drag strip (11:11):
  • Stone: “Close the hot rod track...the kids call it a drag strip, ain’t it?...Close it off for good.”
• When the club arrives to race, they’re stopped at the new gate and rebuffed by the foreman—leading to fresh tensions.
  • Foreman Lefty (15:00): “First one of you guys to touch that gate gets his face pushed in.”
• The club resolves to deal with the matter legally.

4. Community and Lawful Response

• Ezra, stung by Stone’s duplicity, vows to seek justice and not vengeance, turning to both prayer and Ranger Bill for guidance.
  • Ezra (20:06): “Please, Lord, don’t let me hate that man and try to seek revenge.”
  • Ezra (20:35): “There isn’t any higher court than the one the Lord presides over as judge. Well, how do you propose to take this matter to God’s court? Through prayer, I think. After I get through praying, I’m going over to see my young friend, Bill Jefferson.”
• Ranger Bill and Ezra brainstorm, worried for the club, especially after some new members break the law street racing in desperation for a track.

5. Alternative Solutions and Responsible Choices

• The club’s core members refuse to race illegally, upholding their promise to Ezra despite temptation (24:08):
  • Shorty: “We promised Ezra we’d sit tight until this mess gets straightened out.”
• Even when considering the deserted Old Mill Road, the boys resolve to act safely and within limits, showing their maturity.

6. Ranger Bill’s Plan and Stone’s Change of Heart

• Ranger Bill uses a clever strategy: reminding Todd Stone that the drag strip also serves as the ranch’s official fire lane, a vital safety feature. Closing it would put Stone at risk of legal action.
  • Bill (33:14): “I told Todd that he didn’t have a fire lane and he’d have to get one made in five days. If he didn’t, I’d serve a warrant for his arrest. ...As long as the drag strip remains open to the youngsters. If he closes the test track, then I serve the warrant. And that’s a promise that won’t be broken.”
• Stone, additionally impressed by the ingenuity and responsibility of the car club after a visit to their workshop, finally relents—restoring access to the drag strip.

7. Resolution and Reflection

• The story ends with the community restored and everyone grateful for both the wisdom and mercy shown, emphasizing the importance of promises and cooperative problem-solving.
  • Ezra (32:49): “Seeing the youngsters testing the zoom on their cars again on the drag strip makes me real pleased. It makes us all happy, especially the hot rodders.”

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• Ezra on character and promises (04:52):
  “I gave my word that we'd make a deal, and my word's as good as gold.”
• Ezra’s prayerful response (20:06):
  “Please, Lord, don’t let me hate that man and try to seek revenge.”
• Ranger Bill’s clever legal move (33:14):
  “I told Todd that he didn’t have a fire lane...as long as the drag strip remains open...If he closes the test track, then I serve the warrant.”
• Muff and club’s values (16:31):
  “We worked a long time to get folks to look at us favorably. And we don’t want all that feeling to go sour.”
• Ezra’s regret and learning (21:36):
  “Maybe...if I hadn’t made such a blunder in my judgment of character and if I had made this part of the written sale agreement, this wouldn’t have happened.”

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Important Timestamps

• The Sale and Ezra’s Worry: 04:48–06:25
• Hot Rod Club Reacts: 07:01–09:49
• Stone Orders Track Closed: 10:22–11:47
• Club Denied at the Gate: 14:33–15:40
• Ezra’s Response and Faith: 19:00–21:36
• Ranger Bill’s Telegram and Strategy: 25:02–33:14
• Stone Changes His Mind: 32:49–34:36

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Thematic Reflections

• Trust and Integrity: The damage caused by a broken verbal promise, contrasted with Ezra’s integrity and responsibility.
• Youth and Responsibility: The hot rod club strives to act safely and honorably, refusing to let reckless newcomers damage their hard-earned trust.
• Creative Problem-Solving and Law: Ranger Bill administers justice with wisdom—balancing legal fact with community need, and leveraging existing agreements for the greater good.
• Faith and Patience: Ezra’s reliance on prayer and higher principles provides a moral backbone to the narrative.

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Conclusion

“The Broken Promise” is a rich, character-driven Ranger Bill adventure highlighting the enduring value of a person’s word, the strength found in community, and the efficacy of both faith and creativity in overcoming setbacks. This episode, given new life through restoration, continues to offer meaningful lessons through the timeless medium of classic radio drama.

Transcript

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[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Ranger bill, warrior of the wetlands. Ranger Bill, Warrior of the Woodland.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Struggling against extreme odds. Traveling dangerous trails. Fighting the many enemies of nature. This is the job of the guardian of the forest. Ranger Bill Pouring rain, Freezing cold.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Blistering heat. Snow, floods.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Bears, Rattlesnakes, Mountain lions.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Yes.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

All this in exchange for the satisfaction and pride of a job well done.

[Lowe's Announcer]

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[Narrator/Advertiser]

Visit your nearby Lowes.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Hello boys and girls. I've been thinking about the story I'm going to tell you today. In fact, I have several I'd like to tell because so many interesting things happen in a ranger's busy life. Well, I sure know what this story will be about. How'd you like to hear of the trouble I had with Yo Yos and Shot Rotting? Don't look so puzzled by the lingo I am using. It's really on the up and up. All the trouble started when an elderly gentleman by the name of Ezra Newcomb decided to sell his property to an Easterner by the name of Todd Stone. In fact, we could start our story in the Knotty Pine bank where the business transaction took place. Hold onto your hats for the story. The Broken Promise. Ezra Newcomb, Todd Stone, Ed Banker and their attorneys are sitting around Ed's desk in the bank. Ed has the legal papers spread out for the signatures of the two men. Ezra hesitates before picking up the tent. What's the matter, Ezra?

[Todd Stone]

I hope you haven't changed your mind about selling your ranch.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

No, I haven't, Todd. I gave my word that we'd make a deal. And my words as good as gold.

[Todd Stone]

Well, that's fine. For a moment I thought you had changed your mind.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

There's only one thing that bothers me.

[Todd Stone]

What's that?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

The drag strip. You sure you're going to let the youngsters use it after you own the property?

[Todd Stone]

Yes, it's part of the deal.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

If I thought for one second that you'd break your promise, I'd call this whole thing off here and now.

[Todd Stone]

You have my word that the drag strip will be left open for the youngsters to use.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

All right. I'm sorry now that we didn't put that in writing, but it's too late to draw up another set of papers. Where do you want me to sign, Ed?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Right here on the first line.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Please put your signature on all copies. There you are, all signed. I hope you realize the property you bought is the best ranch land around these parts. Put your John Henry on there, Todd,

[Todd Stone]

on the second line.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yes, on an all copies. Then I'll see who the paper is

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

and you can endorse Todd's check, Ezra.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

And we'll get it in today's deposits.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That suits me just fine, Ed. Well, from now on, I'm a man of leisure. No more getting up at 4 in the morning. That'll seem strange after doing it for nigh under 50 years.

[Todd Stone]

I guess it will. Well, I wish you the best of everything in your retirement. I'm leaving on the next plane for the East. My foreman, Lefty Roberts, will be out first thing in the morning to take over.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That'll be mighty fine. The moving van's coming to move Ma and me into town bright and early. And don't forget your promise. Now, about the drag strip.

[Todd Stone]

I won't. How can I? You won't let me.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

No. What?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Ezra sold his ranch to some guy

[Lowe's Announcer]

in the East Poppin toads.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

What about our drag strip?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Hey, you guys, pipe down. Let's give Larry a chance to tell us a hot scoop. Go ahead, Larry.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

It's the truth. And also, it's no secret. I read about Ezra selling his ranch in the afternoon paper. The deal was closed this morning. The paper's got a whole column about it.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Did the paper say anything about the drag strip?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Not a word, Shorty.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Oh. Now where are we gonna test the zoom in our cars? I thought Ezra was our friend. Sure looks like he sold us out.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Don't go spouting off like a cheap carburetor. Fellas, I think we should go out and talk to Ezra.

[Lowe's Announcer]

When are we going?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We'll have to be right now, Muff. The paper said that Ezra's moving off his ranch first thing in the morning.

[Lowe's Announcer]

What are we waiting for?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Let's go. Okay, come on, let's go.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Get in the car. I'll take you.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

This isn't the usual time to come out here. You must have something on your minds.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Well, we didn't come out to test our cars, Ezra. We came out to find out what's going to happen to the Dragon Strip now that you sold out.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I guess you've been reading the newspapers, eh? We sure have. What's the scoop? As far as we're concerned, do we still get to use the test track on Saturdays? What are you saying? Well, I should say so. The man who bought the ranch, Todd Stone, promised to let you still use the race track, just like you've done for the past couple years.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Hey, you're really a solid fella, Ezra. We thought you'd forgotten about us.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Ah, don't talk nonsense, Muff. How could Ole is forget about you? Youngsters, I'm sorry the ranch is getting too much for me to handle. But I wouldn't have sold it unless that Mr. Stone had promised to keep the drag strip going. You feel better now? Thanks a lot. You know, it always makes me happy to see young folks with joy in their hearts. I'll come out and watch you test the zoom in your souped up cars. Won't be often, but I'll come when I can. You let us know when you'd like to come out and one of us will Pick you up. You expect me to ride in one of those speed jobs?

[Lowe's Announcer]

We'll keep it down to a crawl. We'd like you to come out often.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, thank you for the invitation. You make an old man's heart feel warm and pleased. Well, I guess I'd better get back in the house and help the missus with the packing.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Okay, Ezra. And thanks for remembering us. We really appreciate it.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That's all right. You just keep right on developing your mechanical genius on those cars. Even if I'm not around to watch you. Well, goodbye for now. Hello, Lefty? Robert speaking.

[Todd Stone]

Lefty, this is Todd Stone.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yeah, Mr. Stone.

[Todd Stone]

How are things?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, Ezra's gone. Moving van pulled away about an hour ago. Boy, they sure left this place spick and span. I could eat off the floor.

[Todd Stone]

That's fine. The furniture I ordered in Knotty Pine will be out this afternoon. I'm leaving here and going on a business trip for several days, so don't try to call me. You have all the arrangements made to take care of the stock?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yep. I got a couple good cowpokes coming out today and a top horse wrangler.

[Todd Stone]

Fine. I'm glad everything's going along well. I'll call you when I return from my trip.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

All right, Mr. Stone. Is there anything else?

[Todd Stone]

Not that I can think of. It seems as though I'm overlooking something, though. Oh, yes. Close the hot rod track. The kids call it a drag strip, ain't it? Yes, that's it. Close it off for good.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Okay. The boys and I'll sink some fence posts and put up a gate.

[Todd Stone]

Fine. Be sure and get it done before Saturday. That's when they race.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yeah, we'll take care of it. You just leave everything to me.

[Todd Stone]

That's what I'm paying you for.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

And it's good pay, too. Goodbye, Mr. Stone.

[Todd Stone]

Goodbye.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Hey, you guys. Don't any of you get it in the head to make like a yo yo and shot right out to the drag strip?

[Lowe's Announcer]

You tell them, shorty. We don't want any goofers in this gang.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You guys can burn. Oh, and test your zoom when you get out.

[Lowe's Announcer]

How about the three new guys? This is their first time out to the drag strip with us.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We'll keep an eye on them, muff. I think they're solid kids, but we'll soon know if they're shot rodders or not.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Yeah, and if they are, out they go right on their pointed heads. Our club's got a good reputation for safe driving. And I don't want it spoiled by a couple of goofers.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Right? I feel the same way. Let's go. It's getting past. Time to start.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Okay, guys, let's roll.

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[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I sold my car in Carvana last night.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Well, that's cool. No, you don't understand.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

It went perfectly.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Real offer down to the penny.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

They're picking it up tomorrow. Nothing went wrong.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

So what's the problem?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That is the problem.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Nothing in my life goes to smoothing.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'm waiting for the catch.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Maybe there's no catch. That's exactly what a catch would want me to think.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Wow.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

You need to relax.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I need to knock on wood.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

Do we have wood?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Is this table wood?

[Narrator/Advertiser]

I think it's laminate. Okay.

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

Yeah, that's good.

[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

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[Narrator/Advertiser]

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[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Hey, look at the gate.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Let's open it and go in.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Yeah, Ezra said the new owner promised we could use a track. The gate isn't for us. I'll open it.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Don't touch that gate. Who says so? I did.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Who are you to tell us we can't go in?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'm the foreman on this spread, Sonny, and I say you can't go in.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Yeah, well, for your information, we were told we could go in and that's what.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

First one of you guys to touch that gate gets his face pushed in.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We don't know that he really is the foreman.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I think he's a wise guy. Let's jump and hold it.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

We don't win battles with our fists.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, what do you know? A kid with brains.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Yeah, we're leaving, mister. But you had better be the ramrod of this spread because we got ways of finding out. Wise guys don't get far in this part of the country.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Don't threaten me, buster.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

I'm not making threats. I'm telling you facts. We were promised the use of this drag strip.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

My boss didn't tell me about any promises. So go on and beat it, the whole bunch of you.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

When you see your boss, tell him we have ways of dealing with people who break promises legally. Let's go, guys. Where to, Larry? You, Muff and I are gonna see Ezra. He'll know what to. Well, that's the whole story, Ezra.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Of all the underhanded tricks I've ever heard of. That man told a lie right to my face and in front of witnesses, just so I'd sell him the property. I suppose he would have promised me the moon if necessary to close the deal. What can you do to help us get the drag strip back?

[Lowe's Announcer]

Yeah, it's the only good place around here for us to test Zoom.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I know. You let me see what I can do about this. May take a couple of days before I have an answer, but I'll let you know as soon as I do.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Thanks, Ezra.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Meantime, I don't want you fellas to race on the streets or highways.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Don't worry, we won't. We worked a long time to get folks to look at us favorably. And we don't want all that feeling to go sour.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yeah, we'd only be hurting ourselves. We'll be waiting for news from you, Ezra. Yes, I can imagine. I'm anxious to get a hold of Todd Stone and give him a piece of my mind.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

It's too bad that the solid kids in the hot rod club have to suffer because of the carelessness of the three new members. Muff would say that a couple of yo yos are shot rotting. Listen to the goofers burnout, would you? But Muff, Larry, Shorty and the rest of the lads in the club don't know that the law is being broken right now as two of the newcomers race through Knotty Pine and out onto the highway in the middle of the night. But there are some people who know. And right now they're making plans to catch the shot. Riders. Car one to o'.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Rourke.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Go ahead, Car one.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

There's a hot rod heading down the north road and trying to get out on the highway.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We can't possibly catch that souped up job. I understand. Don't be risking your necks trying to catch those wild men. Set up a roadblock on the highway right outside of town so they can't get back in.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Right.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We're on our way. Car three. Come in, car three.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Car three to headquarters.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Philip, me boy, take the old dirt road and cut around in front of the hot rod. Right now. Don't be foolish enough to try and beat him. Take your time. They'll be racing up and down the highway, and when they get tired, they'll go home. That's when we'll put the squeeze on em. They'll find out the road's blocked front and back.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

I've got you, Sergeant.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We'll get em.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

While Pat scratches his Irish head in wonderment, another man tries to sleep but can't. Finally, the long night ends and Ezra puts a phone call through to Todd Stone.

[Todd Stone]

Hello, Ezra. What's on your mind, Stone?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Why have you put a gate across the test track?

[Todd Stone]

Is that what's bothering you? I thought it was something important.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, are you going to answer my question?

[Todd Stone]

Well, it should be obvious why I had the gate put there. I don't know why you wasted your money to call me.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I wouldn't worry about that. It's my nickel. But I'll tell you something you'd better worry about.

[Todd Stone]

What's that, Ezra?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Your broken promise, that's what. And as far as I'm concerned, it's important enough to call to China if need be.

[Todd Stone]

Promises don't mean a thing to me. It's what's in black and white that counts. I don't want those backyard mechanics on my property. They'd just be a nuisance.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You made a verbal agreement and you're gonna keep it. If you don't, then we'll have to ask the court to make you.

[Todd Stone]

Don't make me laugh. There isn't a thing you or anybody else can do about it. Now, don't bother me anymore. I'm a busy man and I don't go for sentimental nonsense.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Please, Lord, don't let me hate that man and try to seek revenge.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I most certainly can understand your anger, Ezra. Even my temperature's rising at the idea of Todd Stone not keeping a verbal agreement.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Rising temperatures don't do a bit of good, Ed. What can we do about it?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I don't know.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'd like to see that gate come down just as much as you do.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

But to do it legally, I don't know.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

If I weren't a Christian I'd seuss Todd Stone, he'd have to admit that he made the promise of perjure himself in court. Why let the fact that you're a

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Christian stop you from taking him to court?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Because, my friend, I have a higher court to which I can take my problem. Fact. There isn't any higher court than the one the Lord presides over as judge. Well, how do you propose to take this matter to God's cool? Through prayer, I think. After I get through praying, I'm going over to see my young friend, Bill Jefferson. What can Bill do? Ed, I'm surprised at you for asking a question like that.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I guess you're right, Ezra. It seems it's hardly anything that Bill can't do.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Bill said it. Don't forget he's got the Lord on his side too. Well, now I've said my piece. I'm afraid that the lads in the hot rod club feel that I let him down.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, you can't help it. That Thornry polecat didn't keep his promise.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Maybe. But if I hadn't made such a blunder in my judgment of character and if I had made this part of the written sale agreement, this wouldn't have happened.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I don't know if you can draw that conclusion, Ezra. It appears to me that Todd Stone probably would have tried to wriggle out of keeping the drag strip open. Even if it was in the written agreement. I don't think black and white would stop a man as unscrupulous as he is.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, maybe you're right. But what can I do about this?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That plenty of good question. Anyway. You try to force him to open drag strip, he fight and draw a fight out plenty long time. Yeah, Gray wolf's right. Something's gotta be thought that'll make him act in a hurry. A big hurry. Why, the fat's in the fire now. What do you mean by that, pal?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Pat and his boys picked up a couple of yo yos last night. Shot riding through town and out onto the highway. I told those youngsters not to go off half cocked and get themselves into trouble. Oh, it wasn't the older club members like Shorty, Muff and Larry and the

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

rest of the careful drivers.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

The Speed Demons are the newest members in the club.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Patrick and his boys didn't try to catch him on the fly, did they?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Not on your life, Stumpy.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

They roadblocked them. Ordinary car couldn't catch those souped up jobs.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

One of the deputies figures the yo

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

yos were shot riding about 100 miles an hour.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Whee.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That's what you call moving? Not for that them there jet planes. But it sure is for automobiles.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Bill, can you help me with this?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Let me answer your question. This way, Ezra. I don't know yet what to do to solve the problem, but I'm sure going to give it a try.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

While you're thinking, I'll be praying.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You won't be alone there, sonny. We need the Lord's help real bad.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I think the pressure's perfect now in all cylinders.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Larry, you're a genius with a high compression head.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Hey, you talking about the head on his shoulders or the one on the motor?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

That was pretty good, Mop.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'll see.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

What do you guys think about my idea of racing on the old mill road?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

I don't know, Larry. We promised Ezra we'd sit tight until this mess gets straightened out.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Right, And I'm going to keep my promise. But the old mill road isn't used hardly at all during the day and not at all at night. It's a good road, but everybody uses the new highway. Now. I don't see where that's breaking our promise.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Oh, I don't know. We've got enough trouble now with the two goofers in the cling.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I know, Muff, but the old mill road's deserted and way out of town. We can't drive fast on it anyhow. It's not a drag strip. We could post guards at each end just in case somebody comes along. Then we'll stop our cars and let them through.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Well, maybe you've got something there. We don't all have to go at once and we don't have to burn o just warm up our cars. What do you say, Muff?

[Lowe's Announcer]

It sounds good to me, Shorty. If the law stops us and says no, then that's what it'll have to be, right?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

We're not yo yos.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Hello, Ranger headquarters. Bill Jefferson speaking.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Bill, this is Ezra.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yes. How are you?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Not so good, no.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

What do you mean?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Pat and his boys spotted Shorty, Larry and Muff crossing town in their hot rods. They followed him and the boys are heading way out of town.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You know where?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

No. Pat's going to keep following him. He says if we'll come out, he'd rather have us handle it since the boys haven't broken any laws yet.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Okay, we're on our way. I'll stop by and pick you up in five minutes. Goodbye. There's Patrick's car up ahead.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Why's he stopped there?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Maybe lan's going to race On Old Mill Road, just around Kerr.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yeah.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You might have something there. Gray Wolf. Pull alongside Pat's car, pal. Where are they, Patrick?

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

They pulled into the Old Mill Road, Bill. Don't tell me they've broken their promise too. I don't think so, Ezra. They've got a lad standing guard where the road meets the highway.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That's to warn anybody turning into the Old Mill Road. Sounds like they're out to warm up their cars, not burn them up.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We'd better find out. Let's pull up to the road and have a talk with him.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Right. You heard the man, Henry.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Right. I'm sorry, Ezra, if you feel that we broke our promise.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I don't feel that way now, Shorty. I can see that you mean well. And you're being as careful as you can.

[Lowe's Announcer]

I'm sure glad you feel the way you do about this. We didn't want you to think we'd

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

let you down like I've done to you.

[Lowe's Announcer]

No, sir. We haven't even thought that since you told us Mr. Stone promised to let us use the drag strip.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I think you fellas better give up the idea of using this. This is a good road. But not good enough to test the zoom in your car.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We're not gonna test zoom or Burno. We're just gonna make warm up runs, not speed.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I understand that you're not yo yos and that you don't shot Rod. But I'm thinking of your own safety. Suppose you blow a tire on a sharp stone going about 50 or 60 miles an hour.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yeah.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'd sure hate to see your cars

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

end up in the junk heap after

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

all the work you put into them.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Yeah, I guess you're right. We'll go back to town.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Just be patient a few more days. Fellas. I have an idea how to get our promise breaking friend to keep his promise. What are you gonna do, Bill? First we're going back to town. On the way in, we'll stop at the telegraph office. I'm going to send Todd Stone a message. That'll have him out here. Pro. Larry, shorty, muff, this is Mr. Todd stone.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Hello, Mr. Stone.

[Todd Stone]

Hi.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Welcome to our shop.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Hello, Mr. Stone. Have a look around, won't you?

[Todd Stone]

Thank you, I will.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I think you'll find that these lads are master mechanics, Todd. They build their own motors and carburetors. We've had experts out here from the automobile makers. And they've been amazed at what these young fellows are doing.

[Todd Stone]

They seem to know what they're doing.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'll Say they do. Now, look at this carburetor here on the bench. You'll notice the special butterfly valves and the rest of the unique construction.

[Todd Stone]

You mean to tell me that one of these lads made this?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I sure do. Here you see? Automotive genius in the making. These fellows haven't had any formal engineering training. They just read books, create the ideas, they make the parts, test them in the shop and they try them out on the drag strip. Hot rodding isn't all speed, Todd. It develops mechanical ability. These lads know how to think and create.

[Todd Stone]

I guess they do. Look at this high compression head. Why, it's a beautiful piece of work.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Bill, I've just put a new gadget on my car. I'd like to show you and Mr. Todd how it works.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, I'd be glad to see how it works, Shorty.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Fine. Hop in and I'll take you for a spin.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Okay, let's take Todd home.

[Todd Stone]

Don't get any notions about my opening the drag strip. Perhaps you think that by taking me home you can soften me up.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

We're taking you home not for the reason you think. We've some business to attend to, as per my telegram to you.

[Todd Stone]

Well, yes. Well, all right, Shorty. You can take us out to my ranch. We want to take a look at the drag strip. But you park your hot rod outside the gate, understand?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Oh, yes, sir. Hop in and we'll be off.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

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[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Hey, look at that horse acting up.

[Todd Stone]

Why, that's my son riding the horse. He knows how to handle a horse better than that.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

That's not a bridle path horse he's riding now. He's riding a western animal with plenty of spirit. And fight.

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

It's a runaway. And he's going right down the drag strip.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Can you catch him?

[Larry / Shorty / Muff (Hot rod club members)]

Like nothing if he stays on the drag strip.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Alright, let's go. Christ.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

To the gate. Hey, what are you doing? Trying to save your son's life.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Keep going.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You've almost caught him.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Slow down.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Now.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I'll jump on. Get closer.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Hold it.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Now pull away. Whoa, boy.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Easy, fella.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Whoa.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You look pretty happy, Ezra.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

I hope I look as happy on the outside as I am on the inside. Seeing the youngsters testing the zoom on their cars again on the drag strip makes me real pleased. It makes us all happy, especially the hot rodders. What made Todd Stone change his mind?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Well, he thought the ride he had in Shorty's hot rod was quite an exciting experience. He's also impressed by the mechanical genius of the hot rod. Say, you never told us what you

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

put in the telegram.

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Whatever you say, it worked plenty good. I happened to think back about an agreement that Ezra and I had made some time ago.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

You're not talking about the drag strip acting as a fire lane, are you?

[Ed Banker / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Yes, I am, Ezra. Actually, the fire lane should be closer to the forest boundary by about 300 yards. Ezra and I agreed that the drag strip could be the fire lane, even though it wasn't right on the line. I told Todd that he didn't have a fire lane and he'd have to get one made in five days. If he didn't, I'd serve a warrant for his arrest. You not serve warrant now, Bill? No, we have the same agreement as I had with Ezra. As long as the drag strip remains open to the youngsters. If he closes the test track and I serve the warrant. And that's a promise that won't be broken. Well, there's more than one way to skin a cat, isn't there? And you can see why I made it rough on a man who refused to keep his promise. Ezra showed too, that the Lord has ways of getting wrongs made into rights for those that love him. Well, see you next week for more

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

adventure with Ranger Bill.

[Andrew Rines (Host)]

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 donate 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.

[Ezra Newcomb / Narrator (Ranger Bill story)]

Sam.