The Eagle Feather | The Lone Ranger (01-22-51)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: The Eagle Feather | The Lone Ranger
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: May 23, 2025

Introduction

The episode begins with a brief welcome from host Andrew Rines at [00:45], introducing The Eagle Feather, an installment of The Lone Ranger series. Rines sets the stage for listeners, highlighting the podcast’s dedication to reviving classic Western radio dramas with enhanced audio quality.

Setting the Scene

At [01:17], the episode opens with the iconic introduction of The Lone Ranger:

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

Tonto, The Lone Ranger’s loyal companion, responds succinctly at [02:32]:

Ram.

The Lone Ranger continues to emphasize his role as a champion of justice in the Wild West, reintroducing listeners to the timeless themes of law, order, and bravery.

Conflict Introduction

The narrative delves into escalating tensions between settlers and Apache tribes. At [03:49], The Lone Ranger describes the Apache raids affecting small towns:

Indians had been on the war path in the southwest territory. One small town after another felt the brunt of their attacks.

Captain Elmore voices the urgency of the situation at [03:56]:

The Apaches are coming. Get the women and children inside and come on to the troopers.

The attacks are driven by the Apache's desperate need for resources, as highlighted by The Lone Ranger at [04:06]:

Even the ranchers were the object of the Apache's vicious attacks as they moved to get horses and plenty of fresh meat.

Strategic Dilemmas

Colonel Lyford and Captain Elmore discuss the dire circumstances at [04:28]:

Colonel Lyford: What more can we do? Even the couriers we've sent asking for reinforcements have been intercepted. And the Pony Express can't get through.

Captain Elmore considers abandoning the fort to protect the settlers but grapples with the loyalty to his men and the settlers’ safety. This internal conflict is articulated at [05:11]:

Colonel Lyford: Abandon the fort? But, sir, have you forgotten the settlers who've moved inside the stockade for safety?

The Lone Ranger's Involvement

At [06:27], the narrative shifts to The Lone Ranger taking action:

The Lone Ranger rode from the fort that afternoon. A worried, determined look on his face changed to a smile of satisfaction as he stopped a moment on a hill and looked back at the fort. Reaching into his inside pocket, he took out an eagle feather and carefully stuck it in his cap. Then he started on along the trail.

Tonto and The Lone Ranger scout the area, uncovering significant clues about the impending threat. Tonto remarks at [07:34]:

Whoever it is will pass by in a moment. Better him not see us.

Unveiling the Traitor

Colonel Lyford discovers a betrayal when Major Fernando reveals a sinister plot to seize control of the territory. At [10:27], The Lone Ranger uncovers Major Fernando’s alliance with the Apaches:

Major Fernando: We are anxious to know conditions there.

The plot thickens as Major Fernando outlines his plan to manipulate both American and Mexican forces to his advantage, intending to establish himself as the territorial governor.

The Trap and Betrayal Unfold

The tension peaks as Colonel Lyford is coerced into aiding Major Fernando's deceitful strategy. At [19:52], Major Fernando devises a plan to trick the fort’s defenders:

Major Fernando: Since we have much more to do before we take the territory, it is necessary that we lose as few braves as possible.

Captain Elmore is led into a trap through deceitful maneuvers, culminating in a deadly confrontation at [22:49]:

Colonel Lyford: Let's get down to the gates quickly.

As The Lone Ranger attempts to save Captain Elmore, a dramatic battle ensues. The Lone Ranger is severely wounded but manages to mitigate the dire situation by protecting his comrades.

Resolution and Redemption

In the aftermath, Colonel Lyford confronts the tragic reality of Captain Elmore’s betrayal. At [26:22], the gravity of Elmore’s actions is revealed:

Captain Elmore: You will be all right, Captain. Colonel Lyford: No. No. Anyhow, it's better this way. I don't deserve to live. I was a traitor to my country.

Tonto underscores the bravery and sacrifice of The Lone Ranger, affirming his role as the true hero:

Tonto: He's a brave man. And a just one, Captain.

The episode concludes with the revelation that The Lone Ranger was the one who risked everything to save Colonel Lyford, embodying the true spirit of justice and honor.

Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with a nod to the creative forces behind The Lone Ranger series, crediting key contributors and emphasizing the legacy of this beloved Western saga.

Notable Quotes

• Andrew Rines [00:45]:

“Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free.”

• The Lone Ranger [03:04]:

“Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice.”

• Captain Elmore [05:02]:

“That's just it, Captain. We couldn't hold this fort against those Indians.”

• Major Fernando [10:41]:

“Once they are in our hands, Forts Quitman, Leighton and Davis will fall easily.”

• Tonto [17:21]:

“Captain Elmore?”

• The Lone Ranger [24:23]:

“He's a downfall. Close the gates before it's too late.”

Conclusion

The Eagle Feather is a compelling episode that weaves intricate plots of loyalty, betrayal, and heroism against the rugged backdrop of the Wild West. Through vivid storytelling and rich audio restoration, listeners are transported into a thrilling adventure where true courage triumphs over deceit.

For those who cherish classic Western tales, this episode serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of The Lone Ranger, meticulously brought to life by the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast team.

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.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Tonto]

Ram.

[The Lone Ranger]

With his faithful Indian companion Tottle, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[Tonto]

Monsieur. Go, big fellow. Are you still hurry?

[The Lone Ranger]

Indians had been on the war path in the southwest territory. One small town after another felt the brunt of their attacks.

[Captain Elmore]

The Apaches are coming. Get the women and children inside and come on to the troopers.

[The Lone Ranger]

Even the ranchers were the object of the Apache's vicious attacks as they moved to get horses and plenty of fresh meat.

[Captain Elmore]

Hey, the Indians. They're burning the building.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Indian raiders had their stronghold in the foothills the of Sacramento Mountains. And a detachment of troopers which had been sent out to locate them had been ambushed, leaving few survivors. The commanding officer at Fort Stockton walked the floor in his headquarters office as he talked to his aide, Captain Elmore.

[Captain Elmore]

Captain Elmore, the situation is grave, very grave indeed. The massacre of our detachment of troopers is the last straw.

[Colonel Lyford]

But, Colonel Lyford, what more can we do? Even the couriers we've sent asking for reinforcements have been intercepted. And the Pony Express can't get through.

[Captain Elmore]

That's just it, Captain. We couldn't hold this fort against those Indians. If they decide to attack, the only thing I see to do is abandon the fort before it's too late.

[Colonel Lyford]

Abandon the fort? But, sir, have you forgotten the settlers who've moved inside the stockade for safety? We couldn't leave them to their fate at the hands of those Apaches.

[Captain Elmore]

That's true, that's true. Those settlers do present a problem. By heaven, we must get word down to Fort Lancaster somehow. Those Apaches must have spies everywhere. They seem to know every move we make.

[Colonel Lyford]

What if we can't get reinforcements?

[Captain Elmore]

We'll stay and do our best, Captain. As you say, we can't desert the settlers, no matter what the outcome. I just can't understand it, frankly. The Apache seem so well organized. Beginning to believe someone with military training is advising them.

[Colonel Lyford]

But that seems impossible, sir. A white man who'd do a thing like that.

[Captain Elmore]

I know, I know. There are vicious men among our kind as well as among the savages, Captain.

[Colonel Lyford]

Colonel, why not let me try to get through? It's our only chance of survival.

[Captain Elmore]

What makes you think you might succeed where all others have failed so far?

[Colonel Lyford]

I know this territory well, and I know the ways of the Indians. What do you say, sir?

[Captain Elmore]

Well, all right, Captain. Start out at once and try to reach Fort Lancaster. And I hope to heaven you'll make it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Captain Elmore rode from the fort that afternoon. A worried, determined look on his face changed to a smile of satisfaction as he stopped a moment on a hill and looked back at the fort. Reaching into his inside pocket, he took out an eagle feather and carefully stuck it in his cap. Then he started on along the trail.

[Tonto]

Get him. Get him.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger and his Indian companion, Toto were riding up the Pecos river trail at a slow pace. The Lone Ranger was saying, we'll have.

[Tonto]

To keep our eyes open, Tahoe. From all reports, this is a territory in which the Apaches are on the warpath. And right Kimasabi. Them say Apache make many raids, kill plenty people. From what we have heard, those raids are planned. Same leaders behind them all. Their purpose seems to be to get horses, guns and ammunition. Maybe that right Kimasabe his tunnel. Cloud of dust come over. Rise in distance. Someone's coming this way. Turn off into the arroyo until he passes. Come on, scout. Easy, boy.

[Colonel Lyford]

Easy.

[Tonto]

Easy now. Whoever it is will pass by in a moment. Better him not see us. Here he comes now. Him coming over. Rise. What him wear? A uniform? Army officer. But look how there's a feather in his cap. Eagle feather. Why him wear that? That's what I'd like to know. Must be riding from Fort Stockton. Ah, it's against army regulations for an officer to wear anything on his uniform except the official insignia and decorations. I know. Let's trail that man for a short time. His life's in danger in this territory. Come on, Tiller. Get him up, scout.

[The Lone Ranger]

Meantime, cat. Captain Elmore followed the trail for a few miles. Suddenly, as he rounded a bend, he came face to face with two Apaches on their ponies. Their rifles were ready, but they held their fire as the captain pulled to a halt.

[Colonel Lyford]

Ho. Ho. The hobo.

[Tonto]

How?

[Colonel Lyford]

How?

[Tonto]

Hail face from fort where Eagle Feather. Apaches watch not kill.

[Colonel Lyford]

I bring news for Great One who uses the sign of the Eagle Feather.

[Major Fernando]

You come.

[Tonto]

We take you to Great One.

[The Lone Ranger]

A short time later, the Lone range aren tato pulled to a stop at the place where the captain had met the two Apaches.

[Tonto]

We stopped here. Toto then turned off the trail. Me see other hoof print. Looked like Mark's Indian pony scheme. Asabi. They must have taken him prisoner. Oh, it's not like Apache on warpath take prisoner. Lem kill from ambush strains them. Not kill off, sir, because he is an officer, they may hold him as a hostage. Maybe that right. What we do now, Kimasabi? A trail leads toward the foothills. We'll follow it. All right, let's go. Come on, children. Get him off the scouts.

[The Lone Ranger]

For some time, Captain Elmore rode into the hills with the two Apaches. Finally, they entered a secluded valley and the captain realized he had reached the Apache's camp. They rolled to the center of the camp and pulled rein before the chief's wigwam. The captain. Captain stood beside his horse, waiting. Then the chief in full regalia came from the wigwam. Accompanied by a man in the uniform of a Mexican officer.

[Colonel Lyford]

Good afternoon, Major. Fernando.

[Major Fernando]

Sure I welcome you, Capitan Elmore. Chief White.

[Tonto]

Deal.

[Major Fernando]

This is my friend from Port Stockton.

[Tonto]

How, How, Chief White, dear.

[Colonel Lyford]

Welcome, friend of Great One. Thanks to the eagle feather you gave me, Major, I was able to get here safely.

[Major Fernando]

Of course, amigo. The chief has honored all his raised not to harm those who wear the eagle fader. You bring news, perhaps?

[Tonto]

Yes.

[Major Fernando]

Good. We are anxious to know conditions there.

[Colonel Lyford]

Senor, the colonel has only about 50 troopers. He's been unable to get dispatches through to either Fort Davis or Fort Lancaster.

[Major Fernando]

Go on, Capitan.

[Colonel Lyford]

He wanted to abandon the fort and take the men to Lancaster. But I persuaded him he should remain to protect the few settlers within the stock.

[Major Fernando]

You have done well. I mean. And soon your reward will be great. For Stockton must be the first to fall. And then Fort Lancaster. That right? Once they are in our hands, Forts Quitman, Leighton and Davis will fall easily. Since they will be cut off from the east and are closer to the border.

[Colonel Lyford]

Then what'll happen, Major?

[Major Fernando]

Amigo, the American nation Would think all this is just an Indian uprising. They will not realize until I move in my rebel soldiers from the mountains across the border that I, I, Juan Fernando, have moved in and conquered the entire territory between the Pecos river and the Rio Grande. Ah, the Great one will rule land justly and treat Apaches as brothers. But of course, of course. You have my word, Chevroy dear. We are allies, no? And together we shall succeed because we shall follow the rule of divide and conquer.

[Colonel Lyford]

The United States and Mexico may join in taking up arms against.

[Major Fernando]

Oh, no, no, senor Capitan. I shall at once make peace with el Presidente Diaz of Mexico and offer him the new territory with the understanding, of course that I am to be territorial governor. I feel sure that he will agree.

[Colonel Lyford]

When do you plan to send the Apaches against Fort Stockton?

[Major Fernando]

At dawn tomorrow perhaps. Then before the news reaches Fort Lancaster, we shall strike there. Chief White Deer have Apache braves ready to attack. See that? That is good. And now let us go into the wigwam to discuss the plans in detail.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle follow the trail of the captain and the two Apaches throughout the foothills. Tonto noticed many Indian signs along the way. But he and the Lone Ranger managed to reach a ridge overlooking the valley without mishap. They arraigned to a halt in a grove.

[Tonto]

Look, Kimas Holly Indians have big camp in the valley. I use my binoculars. What you see the officer we saw wearing the eagle feathers with a chief. A man in what seems to be a Mexican officer's uniform. Oh, that not good. Now they're going into the chief's wigwam. The officer we saw coming from the direction of Fort Stockton must be a traitor. Ah, there are hundreds of Indians in that encampmentado. The troopers must be told about them. Maybe Apache watch trail to fort not be easy get through. That Mexican officer may be the leader I spoke of earlier today who plans the attacks. Maybe that true as you say that Patches are probably watching the trail to Fort Stockton as well as the one to Fort Lancaster. It's strange. Officer ride trail from fort and not be hurt. That's true. Unless what Kimasabe? Unless there was something known to all the braves which would indicate that he was not to be harmed. Would them be quick to shoot at uniform from ambush for him get close enough to see face? Yes, but there was something different from other men in uniforms. The eagle feather he wore in his cap. That right? Maybe eagle feather worn by white man mean Apache not shoot' em. I think we've hit it Otto, don't you usually carry an extra feather or two in your saddlebag? We have eagle feather here. You take em. Good. We're right. This feather should guarantee my safety on the trail to Fort Stockton. Otto, you head for Fort Lancaster and tell the commandant there about the Apache. Captain, be careful. Take back trails whenever you can. Me be careful? Kimasabe. The presence of that army officer in the Apache camp may mean that they're planning to attack Fort Stockton. We helped Colonel Darby at Fort Lancaster once before and I'm sure he'll remember you. Ah. Italian troopers were ambushed in this territory a few days ago and massacred. So the force at Stockton is depleted and in need of reinforcements. Me tell him. Adios, Taro. I waited Fort Stockton for you to return. Adios. Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Captain Elmore]

Sam.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now to continue. After seeing the Apache camp, the Lone Ranger and Toto separated. The Indian started for Fort Lancaster while the masked man headed for Fort Stockton. It was dusk when the corporal of the guard knocked on the door of the colonel's office.

[Captain Elmore]

Come in. All right, inside you.

[Tonto]

Thanks, Colonel.

[Colonel Lyford]

We halted this masked man at the gate. He insisted on seeing you, sir.

[Captain Elmore]

Great day. I've never been so glad to see anyone as I am to see you, my friend.

[Tonto]

Hello, Colonel Lyford.

[Captain Elmore]

My Colonel, sir.

[Colonel Lyford]

The mast.

[Captain Elmore]

I know all about a corporal. This man is a good friend of mine. You and the guards may leave now.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Captain Elmore]

I don't know how you got through. No one from here has been able to make it. Let's sit down.

[Tonto]

Thanks.

[Captain Elmore]

Colonel, I'm worried about the situation here. I have only 50 men. The Apaches knew that they'd surely attack.

[Tonto]

I'm sure they do know by now, Colonel.

[Captain Elmore]

That might be. They seem to know every move we've made recently. What if Captain Elmore gets through to Fort Lancaster?

[Tonto]

Captain Elmore?

[Captain Elmore]

Yes. Came here a couple of months ago as my aide. He knows his territory well.

[Tonto]

I see. And he left for Fort Lancaster earlier today?

[Captain Elmore]

That's right. Took a dispatch to Colonel Darby.

[Tonto]

Colonel Darby won't receive it, sir.

[Captain Elmore]

What makes you say that? Do you think he was ambushed by Apaches? After all, if you managed to get.

[Tonto]

He wasn't ambushed. I wasn't either. And I believe it was because of this eagle feather here.

[Captain Elmore]

Yes, I noticed when you removed that feather from your hat. What does that have to do with your getting through?

[Tonto]

You might say this is the Sign of a traitor.

[Colonel Lyford]

Traitor?

[Captain Elmore]

Come now, my friend. No one can ever say that you're a traitor.

[Tonto]

I'm talking about Captain Elmore, Colonel. What? How? And I saw him on the trail. He wore an eagle feather on his hat. He rode for some distance without harm. And he met two Apaches. What?

[Captain Elmore]

What happened?

[Tonto]

They led him to the Apache encampment. Alan. I trailed them through my binoculars. I saw the captain talking to the chief and to a Mexican officer.

[Captain Elmore]

Great day. My own aid. A dirty traitor.

[Tonto]

That seems to be it.

[Captain Elmore]

I had a feeling those Apaches had a military man telling them what to do. That Mexican officer must be the man.

[Tonto]

I think so.

[Captain Elmore]

We're cut off here. They attacked knowing our situation. We're done for.

[Tonto]

Toto headed for Fort Langast. If he gets through, you should get reinforcements by morning.

[Captain Elmore]

Do you think he'll make it?

[Tonto]

I sincerely hope he'll make it, Colonel.

[Captain Elmore]

What do you suggest we do in the meantime?

[Tonto]

Make every possible preparation to fight off an attack. The fact that your aid went to the Apache camp today might mean the time is near to take the fort.

[Captain Elmore]

And you think that they may attack at dawn?

[Tonto]

I think it's possible, sir.

[Captain Elmore]

I'll alert the men to do all they can to be ready. What are you going to do?

[Tonto]

Give you what help I'm able to give, Colonel. If Tano gets through, we have a chance. If he doesn't, well, we'll go down fighting together.

[The Lone Ranger]

That night in the chief's wigwam, Major Fernando was talking to Captain Elmore and Chief White Deer.

[Major Fernando]

It is arranged, Capadan, that we attack at dawn. Apaches take fort.

[Colonel Lyford]

The fort is strong, but with only 50 men and a few panicky settlers to defend it. It shouldn't be long before the Apaches take it.

[Major Fernando]

There is a bit of strategy in which you will take part, amigo.

[Colonel Lyford]

What's that?

[Major Fernando]

Since we have much more to do before we take the territory, it is necessary that we lose as few braves as possible.

[The Lone Ranger]

No?

[Colonel Lyford]

That's logical, Major.

[Major Fernando]

I knew you would agree, Senor Capitan. Now, here is the part you play. At dawn, we shall be hidden just over the ridge in front of the fort. When I give the signal, you are to gallop toward the fort pursued by three or four braves who will shoot arrows over your head or to the side so as not to hit you.

[Colonel Lyford]

But why do you want me to do that?

[Major Fernando]

Do you not see, amigo? The guards at the fort will think you have returned and that you are being attacked by a few Indians. They will open the gates to let you in. Then the big attack will take place.

[Colonel Lyford]

But the ridge is some distance away. I'll get inside and the gates will be closed before the Apaches reach them.

[Tonto]

Of course.

[Major Fernando]

But you pretend you have escaped with your life. Later you open the gates for us.

[Colonel Lyford]

Good.

[Major Fernando]

Pale faces at fort not expect a type. Them have sleeping eyes. Fear in mind they will not see. If Capitan loosens bars of gate and Apache's right fires get inside. Four quick. Then they take four.

[Colonel Lyford]

I didn't figure on doing anything like that.

[Major Fernando]

So perhaps you fear for your safety, Amigo, you will not be harmed by the Apaches. And surely your own soldiers will not shoot you.

[Colonel Lyford]

All right, if that's the way you want it.

[Major Fernando]

Bueno, bueno, amigo. You will be rewarded greatly when all my plans have succeeded. And now. Now I suggest that you go to our wigwam and rest until the time comes to leave for the capital.

[Colonel Lyford]

All right. I'll see you both in the morning. Good night.

[Major Fernando]

See me watch close. Fair face, Captain. Have much fear. Maybe him not follow plan. I do not intend to give him a chance, Chief White dear. He served his purpose. He knows too much about our future plans. So we dare not take the chances that he might talk. No, it better him die. That is really my plan. See that you pick braves to follow him. Braves who will not miss Chief White Deer. Before the pale faced capitan reaches gate of fort. The arrows of Apache braves will silence his lips forever.

[The Lone Ranger]

Meantime, during the night there was great activity inside the fort. As everyone made ready for the expected attack. Dawn found the Colonel and the Lone Ranger standing on the rampart near the big gates. Looking out over the slope that stretched up to the ridge beyond. The Colonel spoke.

[Captain Elmore]

Everything out there seems peaceful enough.

[Tonto]

I've seen it that way before, Colonel, when an attack was about to begin.

[Captain Elmore]

Yes, so am I. Well, the sun's just over the horizon. If anything is going to happen, it should start soon.

[Tonto]

I was hoping Toddle and the men from Fort Lancaster would arrive before daylight.

[Captain Elmore]

I don't like to dash your hopes, my friend, but. Well, look. Someone galloping towards the fort.

[Tonto]

Several Indians are following him, Colonel. Look.

[Captain Elmore]

Great Dave. That's Captain Elmore. Let's get down to the gates quickly.

[The Lone Ranger]

The Colonel and the masked man went down the ladders to an opening in the stockade near the gates from which they could watch.

[Captain Elmore]

They're shooting arrows at him. Guide them back, men. Use your guns. The Indians are turning back.

[Tonto]

Look. The Captain has been hit by an arrow. He's fallen from his horse.

[Captain Elmore]

It's Fallen a short distance from the gates.

[Tonto]

I'm going out after him. He's trying to crawl, but he's badly hurt.

[Captain Elmore]

Don't risk it. After all, knowing what we do.

[Tonto]

I've branded him as a traitor, Colonel. But he should have the right to explain. We can't let him die out there. Tell the men to open the gates for me.

[Colonel Lyford]

All right.

[Captain Elmore]

Open the gates and let the masked man through. Quickly. Come back. The Indians are coming over the ridge.

[Tonto]

I must bring that man in. Tell your men to cover with gunfire.

[Captain Elmore]

Then cover the mask man. Go through the gate.

[The Lone Ranger]

As the Colonel and the men watched, the Lone Ranger ran out to where Captain Elmore lay wounded. The men in the fort kept up rapid gunfire to cover him as he picked up the wounded officer and started back. The Indian were not yet quite within range to harm him, but in another moment it seemed that he must fall a victim to their bullets.

[Captain Elmore]

Run. Run. You can't make it, Colonel. We better close the gates. He must make it. He must. Don't touch those gates. The Indians will be close enough to kill him in a minute.

[The Lone Ranger]

As the Colonel and the men watched tensely, the Lone Ranger ran with his heavy burden toward the open gates. Another minute and he'd be inside. Then he stumbled and fell.

[Captain Elmore]

He's a downfall. Close the gates before it's too late. Troopers. Look. Troopers. Support Lancaster.

[The Lone Ranger]

As the Lone Ranger fell, he realized that it meant death. Grabbing his guns, he raised on his elbows and emptied them at a uniform figure and a few Apaches who had just moved within range. At that moment, the Lone Ranger, too.

[Tonto]

Heard the welcome sound of the bugle troopers. Heavens, he's safe.

[The Lone Ranger]

For another moment, the masked man lay watching as the troopers moved in and fought the Apaches, whose only thought now seemed to be to get away. Men poured through the open gates of the fort. As the Colonel and some of the men came running toward him, the Lone Ranger stood up.

[Captain Elmore]

My friend. My friend, are you all right?

[Tonto]

Yes, thanks. Colonel, there's a wounded man in uniform out there. Will you have your men bring him inside? I think he's a Mexican officer I mentioned.

[Captain Elmore]

Yes, yes, of course, of course. Sergeant, see that that man out there has brought him to the fort. Yes, you're right. Come on.

[Tonto]

Kami. Oh.

[Captain Elmore]

See the commandant, Fort Lancaster riding this way. We'll all go into the fort. Bring Captain Elmore inside.

[The Lone Ranger]

Later, in the quarters which the Colonel and the Captain had shared, several men stood around a cot on which Captain Elmore lay. They listened intently as the captain spoke weakly.

[Colonel Lyford]

I'm done. For, Colonel, they planned to kill me. I know that now.

[Captain Elmore]

You will be all right, Captain.

[Colonel Lyford]

No. No. Anyhow, it's better this way. I don't deserve to live. I was a traitor to my country.

[Captain Elmore]

I know. My mask friend knew.

[Colonel Lyford]

He. He knew her.

[Captain Elmore]

Yes. He was clever enough to figure out the meaning of the eagle feather. He saw you wearing it.

[Colonel Lyford]

But though he knew he had risked his life to save me.

[Tonto]

He's a brave man. And a just one, Captain.

[Captain Elmore]

That's right, Colonel Darby.

[Colonel Lyford]

But why did he do it?

[Captain Elmore]

Because he had branded you as a traitor in my presence. He felt you should have a chance to vindicate yourself if possible.

[Colonel Lyford]

I never knew any man could be that fine. What of Major Fernando?

[Tonto]

The masked man wounded him, Major confessed everything and will pay for his crimes. The Apaches will be punished along with their chief.

[Colonel Lyford]

I. I'm sorry about everything.

[Captain Elmore]

I'm sorry. Too late, Captain. An officer who betrays his trust becomes a traitor to his country. Deserves neither sympathy nor forgiveness.

[Tonto]

I agree, Colonel.

[Captain Elmore]

A man who tried to save your life, who risked arrows and bullets for you, was willing to believe that he might have been mistaken. It's hard for such as he to concede that any American could be a traitor to these great United States.

[Colonel Lyford]

Tell me, Colonel. Who is he? Who is the.

[Tonto]

The captain is dead, Colonel.

[Captain Elmore]

And he didn't have the satisfaction of knowing that the great American who risked his life for him is the Lone Ranger.

[Tonto]

SA.

[The Lone Ranger]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate this episode within your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube become one of our ranch hands and unlock some exclusive content. We want to thank the following ranch hand, Steve, who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739. This episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Captain Elmore]

Sam.