The Missing Cattle | The Lone Ranger (07-21-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: The Missing Cattle | The Lone Ranger (07-21-50)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: February 24, 2025

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1. Episode Overview

The Missing Cattle is a classic Western drama featuring the iconic Lone Ranger, his faithful companion Tonto, and the diligent Sheriff Matt Gorman. Set in the small cattle town of Delta, the episode delves into the tensions and mysteries surrounding a series of cattle rustlings that threaten the prosperity of the Half Circle C Ranch. As suspicions arise and accusations fly, the Lone Ranger emerges to restore justice and uncover the truth behind the cattle thefts and a recent murder.

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2. Setting the Scene

The episode opens with a vivid portrayal of the Wild West, introducing listeners to the Lone Ranger and his trusty horse, Silver. The narrator sets the stage in Delta, a hub for cattle raising, highlighting the rugged life of pioneers and the constant threats from outlaws and rustlers.

Notable Quote:

“A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high Silver the Lone Ranger.” ([01:15])

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3. Conflict Arises

Tensions escalate when Eric Hyde, the owner of the Half Circle C Ranch, seeks the assistance of Sheriff Matt Gorman to address the ongoing cattle rustling. Suspicion falls on Brad Clemens, whose brother Rusty is under scrutiny for rustling and was previously convicted of murder. The confrontation in Sheriff Gorman's office reveals the strained relationships and underlying motives driving the characters.

Notable Quotes:

Rusty Clemens: “Look at it our way for once. In the first place, every time Eric here had cattle stolen, you've been out of town. Who tell us where.” ([05:50])

Eric Hyde: “I didn't have a thing to do with it.” ([07:58])

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4. Collaboration with the Lone Ranger

Desperate for a solution, Eric Hyde mentions reaching out to the Lone Ranger for help. Sheriff Gorman, though initially skeptical, agrees to involve the masked hero after Eric reveals the extent of the rustling problem and the danger it poses to his ranch. The Lone Ranger, along with Tonto and a young boy named Dan Reed, arrives in Delta, bringing hope to the beleaguered community.

Notable Quote:

Eric Hyde: “I was hoping the Lone Ranger will come.” ([09:28])

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5. Investigation and Confrontation

Sheriff Gorman and Eric Hyde coordinate with the Lone Ranger to investigate the cattle rustling. Through meticulous observation and detective work, they narrow down suspects and set traps to catch the culprits. Tensions between Sheriff Gorman and Rusty Clemens highlight the complexity of trust and betrayal within the town.

Notable Quotes:

Sheriff Matt Gorman: “If either of the men you suspect is guilty, it won't take long to prove it.” ([11:02])

Brad Clemens: “If you won't talk to me, I reckon you'll spill what you know pretty soon to the boss who owns this Brit.” ([20:38])

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6. Revelation of the True Culprit

As the investigation progresses, Sheriff Gorman uncovers significant evidence pointing to Eric Hyde himself as the mastermind behind the rustling and the murder of Enoch Kinsey. Confronted with the truth, Eric Hyde attempts to deceive the sheriff but ultimately fails, leading to his arrest. The episode skillfully unravels the deceit, showcasing the Lone Ranger's pivotal role in bringing the true villain to justice.

Notable Quotes:

Sheriff Matt Gorman: “Eric is not only the murderer of Enoch Kinsey, he's also the rustler of his own cattle.” ([27:18])

Brad Clemens: “Why would Eric steal from himself?” ([27:40])

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7. Conclusion

In the climactic resolution, Eric Hyde is apprehended, and the truth about the cattle rustling and the murder is revealed to the townsfolk. Brad Clemens, previously under suspicion, is exonerated, and the community of Delta breathes a sigh of relief. The Lone Ranger's intervention not only solves the immediate crisis but also restores faith in justice and law enforcement in the Wild West.

Notable Quote:

Sheriff Matt Gorman: “He thought he was clever enough to call Dan, Toto and me. That we would help him put guilt on another person.” ([28:27])

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Final Thoughts

The Missing Cattle exemplifies the timeless allure of Western dramas, blending suspense, moral dilemmas, and heroic deeds. Through rich storytelling and dynamic character interactions, the episode captivates listeners, transporting them to an era where justice was hard-fought and legends like the Lone Ranger upheld the virtues of courage and integrity.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Narrator: “A fiery horse with a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high Silver the Lone Ranger.” ([01:15])
• Rusty Clemens: “Look at it our way for once... every time Eric here had cattle stolen, you've been out of town.” ([05:50])
• Eric Hyde: “I didn't have a thing to do with it.” ([07:58])
• Eric Hyde: “I was hoping the Lone Ranger will come.” ([09:28])
• Sheriff Matt Gorman: “If either of the men you suspect is guilty, it won't take long to prove it.” ([11:02])
• Brad Clemens: “If you won't talk to me, I reckon you'll spill what you know pretty soon to the boss who owns this Brit.” ([20:38])
• Sheriff Matt Gorman: “Eric is not only the murderer of Enoch Kinsey, he's also the rustler of his own cattle.” ([27:18])
• Brad Clemens: “Why would Eric steal from himself?” ([27:40])
• Sheriff Matt Gorman: “He thought he was clever enough to call Dan, Toto and me. That we would help him put guilt on another person.” ([28:27])

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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 at 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 a speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty high Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

With.

[Narrator]

His faithful Indian companion Tonto, the masked rider of the plains, led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. The stories of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness, have come down to us through the generations. 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.

[Eric Hyde]

Big fellow, I'll do it all away.

[Narrator]

The life of a pioneer was rugged at best. If a man did survive the perils of the long trail, the sickness and disease, the Indians, the chance of losing his team, his wagon and even his life on the steep rocky passes, he had by no means won the Battle of the West. For even after he had found his peaceful valley, cleared the land, built his cabin, and finally enlarged all this to a sizable paying cattle ranch, there were those who sought by fair means and foul to take it all away from him. Even here in the small town of Delta, hub of the cattle raising business for miles around, there were thieves, outlaws and rustlers who plied their trade outside of town. And a few miles to the north lay the prosperous Half Circle Sea range. And in spite of all the local sheriff could do, the herd was being systematically raided and plundered.

[Eric Hyde]

He's got 50 heads, he's 10 critters moving. Haze them along boys, haze them along. Very head this man had a mid of the hill.

[Narrator]

Eric Hyde, owner of the Half Circle C Ranch, sat in the office of Sheriff Matt Gorman in the small town of Delta. A young man who stood in front of them faced the sheriff defiantly.

[Rusty Clemens]

Look here Rusty. There's no sense in acting like we didn't have any right to bring you in here for question. Let me. We've got reasons.

[Brad Clemens]

I'd like to know what they are.

[Rusty Clemens]

Look at it our way for once. In the first place, every time Eric here had cattle stolen, you've been out of town. Who tell us where.

[Brad Clemens]

It's none of your business.

[Eric Hyde]

Just a minute, Sheriff. Rusty, the sheriff and I have got a good idea why you won't talk now. What makes you think your brother's worth going to jail for?

[Brad Clemens]

I don't know what you're talking about.

[Rusty Clemens]

Leading up to the rest of us, these times you sneaked off, you've done either one of two things.

[Brad Clemens]

Meaning what?

[Rusty Clemens]

Either wrestling Eric's cows or riding away that no good brother of yours has had Brad's.

[Eric Hyde]

All right.

[Brad Clemens]

I won't stand for anybody saying he ain't.

[Rusty Clemens]

Stubborn critter, ain't ye?

[Brad Clemens]

What other reason have you got for bringing me here, Rusty?

[Eric Hyde]

It'd be natural enough for you and your brother to try to get even with me.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, I know.

[Eric Hyde]

My ranch used to belong to Brad before he was sent to jail. After he was convicted of killing Ina Kinsey, the bank took the ranch and I bought it fair and legal.

[Brad Clemens]

Brad and me don't hold that against you. If you hadn't bought it, somebody else would.

[Eric Hyde]

Glad to know you feel that way.

[Brad Clemens]

But I'm telling you, Sheriff, Brad didn't kill that old miserina Kinsey.

[Rusty Clemens]

Look, everybody knew he was a miser and he had enough cash to make it worth stealing.

[Brad Clemens]

It wasn't proved. Nobody knows what he had.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

No.

[Rusty Clemens]

Just hold on, Rusty. Ann, we ain't here to try Brad's case all over again. All we're doing is investigate some rustling.

[Brad Clemens]

Why don't you pick on somebody else besides me?

[Rusty Clemens]

You're not the only suspect we got.

[Eric Hyde]

Matter of fact, Rusty, I don't think you're the one to blame. You could ask the sheriff, but we just thought you'd like a chance to explain your actions.

[Brad Clemens]

Am I under arrest or not? That's all I want to know.

[Rusty Clemens]

I'm not arresting you yet.

[Brad Clemens]

And I'm leaving. You want me, you know where I can be found.

[Rusty Clemens]

Go ahead. Go ahead.

[Brad Clemens]

Excuse me, Spike. I didn't see you coming in.

[Eric Hyde]

It's all right, Rusty.

[Narrator]

Come on in with me.

[Eric Hyde]

D, this same sheriff. But every time something happens around this town, you have to blame me.

[Rusty Clemens]

We have beef. And B, you have any trouble? With respect, no. He's getting used to being arrested, I guess.

[Eric Hyde]

You can't do this, Sheriff. I'm a Law B. Every citizen has his right.

[Rusty Clemens]

You know anything about the rustling that's been going on?

[Eric Hyde]

I didn't have a thing to do with it.

[Rusty Clemens]

Last time Eric had cow stolen was night before last. Where were you?

[Eric Hyde]

Down to the cafe and I can prove it.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, the bartender will tell you just that. Ah, that'd be a waste of time. I wouldn't believe that barkeep, no matter what he said. I first notice you've been spending quite a bit of cash lately. Where'd you get it from?

[Eric Hyde]

That's my business. You can't prove a thing on me. I want a lawyer and I. Frank.

[Rusty Clemens]

Get him out of here. Take him down to the cafe and chickeny store.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Sure, Sheriff.

[Rusty Clemens]

Come on, Dick. Yeah, there's nobody can beat him when it comes to jabbing.

[Eric Hyde]

Well, what do you think now, Sheriff?

[Rusty Clemens]

I don't know what to think. Except if neither of those two are behind the rustling, I don't know who it is.

[Eric Hyde]

Each got a lot of no good friends.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, and Rusty Clemence's next convict. Brother, I don't know what to say. Eric.

[Eric Hyde]

Wait a minute.

[Brad Clemens]

Sheriff.

[Eric Hyde]

Come here a minute.

[Rusty Clemens]

Look, here's what.

[Eric Hyde]

See those two riders across the street?

[Rusty Clemens]

You mean the red skid and that kid?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

What about him?

[Eric Hyde]

Well, I've got a confession to make. Sure of.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah.

[Eric Hyde]

Now don't get me wrong. What I've done is no reflection on your ability as a sheriff.

[Rusty Clemens]

What are you getting at?

[Eric Hyde]

You see, it's come to the point that if I lose any more cattle, I'll be broke.

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, I'm doing my best.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Serious.

[Eric Hyde]

I know you are, but that redskin and that kid, see, they're just riding away there.

[Rusty Clemens]

They don't understand.

[Eric Hyde]

They've got a friend who might be able to help both of us.

[Rusty Clemens]

Who is this friend?

[Eric Hyde]

The Lone Ranger. You ever hear of him?

[Rusty Clemens]

Why, sure, who ain't? But what makes you think he'd come here and help us?

[Eric Hyde]

I talked to the boy. His name is Dan Reed. I'm hoping the Lone Ranger will come.

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, doggone.

[Eric Hyde]

Ah, don't get mad at what I did, Sheriff.

[Rusty Clemens]

Why should I get mad? Well, I'll be tickled to death to have his help.

[Narrator]

Afternoon faded and evening arrived. Harry Kyde and the sheriff waited for word from the Lone Ranger. They'd almost given up hope when the door opened suddenly.

[Eric Hyde]

What? Well, you did come.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You expected me.

[Rusty Clemens]

I heard you. Stability meeting. I've heard of you, but that don't mean that every critter wears a mad Truly.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You want proof, Sheriff? I don't blame you. Here.

[Rusty Clemens]

What's Eddie?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

A silver bullet.

[Rusty Clemens]

Silver bullet? That's good enough for me.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Danny told me you're in a little trouble.

[Eric Hyde]

Well, not very little. I've had a lot of beef stores. More than I can afford.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Yes, I know. You suspect two men. That's right.

[Rusty Clemens]

Geek Bowes and Rusty Clemens.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Rusty? The brother of Brad Clemens? The man who escaped from jail after being convicted of killing a Mr. Kinsey?

[Rusty Clemens]

That's him.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

And he's no good critter.

[Rusty Clemens]

That's just naturally cruel.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Any other suspects?

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, not unless the rustling is being done by outlawed smart satite to him.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

If either of the men you suspect is guilty, it won't take long to prove it.

[Eric Hyde]

That's what we need.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Action. Give me 24 hours.

[Rusty Clemens]

As long as you want.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

In the meantime, pass the word around town that you've been talking to me.

[Rusty Clemens]

You mean it?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

But what for?

[Rusty Clemens]

I thought you always worked in secret circumstances.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Alter cases, Sheriff. And at the same time you tell them about me. Tell them that within 24 hours I'll know who's behind the rustling. I'll call for him.

[Rusty Clemens]

Don't understand you ask for my help, Sheriff. Sure, sure. Anything you say.

[Eric Hyde]

Wait a minute.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I'll see you tomorrow night.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, between.

[Eric Hyde]

I want to.

[Rusty Clemens]

Sure, sure. Wanted to ask a few questions.

[Eric Hyde]

So did I. But results count most. And if there's anybody who can get results, it's him.

[Narrator]

Although they were greatly puzzled, the sheriff and Eric obeyed every suggestion given them by the Lone Ranger. Within a few hours, the little town of Delta was buzzing with the news that none other than the Lone Ranger was going to find the man responsible for stealing Half Circle Sea cattle. And on the following evening, when word was hurriedly circulated that the masked man accompanied by an Indian and a young boy was riding toward Deep Bower's Shack at the edge of town, a crowd gathered outside. A few moments later, three horsemen came up.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Oh, hello.

[Brad Clemens]

He's looking for.

[Rusty Clemens]

I thought the credit was a R. You figured.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Can you keep this crowd back?

[Rusty Clemens]

Very sure, if it would.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Inside.

[Rusty Clemens]

Easy. All right. Rusty Clement. Assembly in this crowd. They saw him just a minute ago.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Any big man. I'm going inside.

[Rusty Clemens]

I'll go with you. No.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Shut up. Let's keep the crowd from following me.

[Rusty Clemens]

You the boss. All right, folks, move back now.

[Eric Hyde]

Move back. Did you see that? He shot at the match man. Not through the window. He killed you all right. That fooled him.

[Rusty Clemens]

Don't kill what you see.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Now put him there with you. Come on.

[Eric Hyde]

I didn't do it, Alec. I Didn't. I didn't fight him. Sight.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

There's a gun on the floor beside him, Sheriff. Let me see it.

[Rusty Clemens]

Big shooting around, all right. I've seen it a thousand times. Look.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Two shots. Gone. The smell of burnt powder.

[Eric Hyde]

Oh, wait.

[Rusty Clemens]

Listen, please.

[Eric Hyde]

My gun was stolen. I don't know who took it, but I didn't fire them shots. You've got to believe me.

[Rusty Clemens]

You know what's been said all over town about how this gent was calling tonight for the crook behind the cattle. Rodgers.

[Eric Hyde]

But I never have.

[Rusty Clemens]

You saw him and his friends right up. You knew he'd have the goods on you.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

What ain't right.

[Eric Hyde]

I'm not guilty.

[Rusty Clemens]

I didn't have any evidence against you before. This shooting is enough to convict you by itself.

[Eric Hyde]

I didn't do it, I tell you.

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, what'll I do with him?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Jail him right away.

[Rusty Clemens]

It'll be a pleasure.

[Brad Clemens]

But aren't you all the time.

[Rusty Clemens]

You stay out of this riffy.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Why?

[Eric Hyde]

Keep him away from me.

[Brad Clemens]

You no good sidewinder.

[Rusty Clemens]

I had a gun with you.

[Brad Clemens]

Right here in front of all these people. Trying to frame me, wasn't you? When you knew I didn't have an ally, you stole Eric's cows. Cause you figured I'd be blamed.

[Eric Hyde]

Oh, Rusty, no. How's that?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You get out of here.

[Rusty Clemens]

Get out.

[Brad Clemens]

Just let me have one swing at that crooked skunk.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I'm going to get on your horse and go home.

[Eric Hyde]

Bring your prisoner.

[Rusty Clemens]

Sheriff.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

That's your horse, Rusty.

[Brad Clemens]

Yeah. After Deke framing me, I'd like to.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Careful. Handle Deke now. Up with you. I won't. Yes, you will. On your way.

[Eric Hyde]

I hope they hate you deep. All right, folks, go on home now. The Sheriff's gonna care to me. Quiet.

[Rusty Clemens]

Quiet.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I know all of you people are interested in this case. But you'll have to wait a while to learn more about it. Sheriff, is your prisoner safe?

[Rusty Clemens]

He won't get away from me. Don't worry.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

See that he doesn't. Dan, bring up the horses.

[Eric Hyde]

Sure. Come on, Victor. It's over. Get him up. Scum.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Can I see you for a moment? Put Deke in jail, Sheriff, and keep him there. I don't prefer any charges against him. Because just between you and me, Deke isn't behind the rustling. And he didn't shoot at me. Oh, you wish me, Luke. Whoever's standing right here, you'll find out the truth. We'll prove it later. Ready, Dan? Hello.

[Rusty Clemens]

Sure.

[Eric Hyde]

Come on, Silver.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Yeah, Fix it.

[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 moments now to continue our story. Now to continue our story. The Lone Ranger, Tonto and Dan Lee rode eastward from Delta for several miles, then rained up beside the trail that led to the Half Circle C Ranch. They waited until another horseman appeared.

[Eric Hyde]

Is this him?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I think so. Then, Eric.

[Rusty Clemens]

Oh. Oh, score. Who is it?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Want to talk to you, Eric.

[Eric Hyde]

Oh, you.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Were you expecting someone else?

[Eric Hyde]

Say, what in thunderation did you mean by what you told the sheriff?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Did he tell you what I said?

[Rusty Clemens]

Of course.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

That Deke wasn't a rustler and hadn't shot at me.

[Eric Hyde]

I guess it was some trick he wanted to work so Deke would say something to convict himself. But at least you should let the sheriff in on your plan.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

That wasn't necessary. I meant what I told him. What's that? Because it was true.

[Eric Hyde]

It can't be. Two dozen people saw Deke fire those shots at you. I even saw it myself.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Now, wait a minute. You and the others saw me approach the house, but you didn't see Deke shoot at me.

[Eric Hyde]

I could swear.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

So could all the others. That doesn't make it true. In the first place, in the last 24 hours, I've learned quite a bit about Deke and Rusty Clemens.

[Eric Hyde]

You have?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Yes. Deke's one of the best pistol shots in this part of the country. He couldn't have missed.

[Eric Hyde]

The whole thing's too deep for me.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

And in the second place, while I was inside Deke's shack, I noticed that both the front and rear windows were open. Yeah? A man could have stood in the rear of the shack and fired through both windows.

[Eric Hyde]

But the gun was found on the floor.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Deke said he'd been thrown there. I'm sure he was telling the truth.

[Eric Hyde]

That doesn't make sense. Why would anybody do anything like that?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

For the purpose that very nearly succeeded to make Deke look guilty.

[Eric Hyde]

Now, look here. I don't know what you're getting at, but it just can't be Rusty.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Why not? His brother's a criminal.

[Eric Hyde]

Too much for me. All I know is that if the rustlers aren't found, I'll just have to quit trying to pay the bank for the ranch and give up. It'll mean I lose everything.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You're not a young man, Eric. I know.

[Eric Hyde]

It makes it all the harder. Say, I just remembered. You said you'd have the rustlers within 24 hours.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

No, I didn't. I just told the sheriff to spread that story around town. However, as a matter of fact, I do know who.

[Eric Hyde]

Who is it?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I'd rather not name anyone until I have proof.

[Eric Hyde]

What is that, proof?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

It'll take several days to get it together. Until then, we must wait. All right, then, follow. Come on, get out.

[Narrator]

Three days passed in which no one saw the Lone Ranger in Delta. But during those three days, the masked man saw much of the fertile cattle country. It was the second day that he rang up on the other side of the valley. His eyes surveying a magnificent stretch of rain flat.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

This is a spread I've never seen before, Silver. Which may be what we're looking for. Want to see the brand on these stairs? Come on, Fell. Easy. Silver Wolf. Half Circle C. Get back, mister. Should have known this range would be.

[Eric Hyde]

Watch. Steady. Hold that. Pull that.

[Brad Clemens]

Now, stand where you are and remember your covers. So keep your hands away from them guns.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Are you. Are you a hand on this, friend?

[Brad Clemens]

Yeah, and right now I want to know what a mask omrip doing here.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I'll answer that. I'm just looking around.

[Brad Clemens]

Yeah, well, that's one thing we don't welcome in these parks, Folks that's just looking around, even if they are outlaws.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Oh, what brand is this? The Circle O.

[Brad Clemens]

Not as it mean anything to you. State your business.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I told you, I'm just looking around.

[Brad Clemens]

Where'd you come from?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

A great many places.

[Brad Clemens]

Now, ain't that interesting? And I guess you're heading in the same direction. What are you noting around here? First, if you won't talk to me, I reckon you'll spill what you know pretty soon to the boss who owns this Brit.

[Rusty Clemens]

Curious critter, huh?

[Brad Clemens]

I reckon there'd be a lot of people that would like the same information. I'll take them guns of yours.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You're not dealing with a lot of people, cowboy.

[Brad Clemens]

I'll drop you where you stand. Oh, my hand. You shot that gun clean out of my hand.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Now, I want some information.

[Brad Clemens]

I don't know who you are, mister, but any man that can draw that fast is slinging lead for somebody's money. What's your name?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You forget you're answering the questions? Who owns a Circle O?

[Brad Clemens]

I told you that ain't general information.

[Eric Hyde]

Silver.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Perhaps you'll be a little more willing to talk in my camp.

[Brad Clemens]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute. I'll tell you who owns it. I know who you are. I should have noticed the minute you shot my gun out of my hand. Mr. Lone Ranger, I ain't aiming to argue.

[Narrator]

Early on the fourth day, the Lone Ranger returned To the camp. He and his friends.

[Rusty Clemens]

What happened, Eddie?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

My guess was right, Dan. I've got full proof of it.

[Eric Hyde]

Oh, that's good.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

We could accuse ahead of the rustlers. Now there's something else we have to do first. Geez, what's happened while I've been away?

[Eric Hyde]

More cattle stolen, that's all.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

From the half circle sea.

[Brad Clemens]

Ah, I thought so.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Because this time they didn't drive them through the hills to the south.

[Eric Hyde]

That's right. Tallow tree on them.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Good. I was hoping he'd do that. I think tonight we'll see the finish of cattle rustling around Delta.

[Rusty Clemens]

Golly.

[Eric Hyde]

What's going to happen?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Plenty, Dan. We have a lot of riding to do before that time comes. You and Tunnel better saddle your horses.

[Narrator]

That evening the sheriff went to the cell where Deke Bowers had been held in spite of his protests and unlocked the iron door.

[Rusty Clemens]

Come on air Deak. I'm tired to listen to you holler about being innocent.

[Eric Hyde]

So you finally come to your senses. It's a shame that. A decent law abiding and the loudest.

[Rusty Clemens]

Talking glute I've ever seen.

[Eric Hyde]

That isn't so. Man has a right to speak for himself.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, but you abuse the privilege.

[Eric Hyde]

Who's that waiting in your office?

[Rusty Clemens]

Just Spike, my deputy. And Eric and Rusty. And Rusty. You mean he's after me? Good way you won't buddy while you're in my office. Hey James. Howdy, Sheriff. Sheriff.

[Brad Clemens]

What'd you send Spike after me for?

[Rusty Clemens]

Where you think it was you were trying to get jailed.

[Brad Clemens]

There's nothing you can jail me for.

[Rusty Clemens]

Yeah, maybe you're right.

[Brad Clemens]

And why did he bring me down?

[Rusty Clemens]

If you'd like to hear the good news about your brother, that's all.

[Brad Clemens]

Good news about Brian?

[Rusty Clemens]

Sure. Well, come to think of it, I guess I haven't mentioned it to any of you. Gen Shad. It's.

[Brad Clemens]

What's it about, Sheriff?

[Rusty Clemens]

Sheriff? Well, I got word from Brad today. You couldn't have did just the same.

[Eric Hyde]

How'd you get word?

[Rusty Clemens]

Who brought it? Never mind. The real news is that Brad is tired hiding out. He's going to come in town tomorrow and surrender. Give himself up. Loco. That's what the message said.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

So Brad figures it's better to serve.

[Brad Clemens]

His sentence than keep on dodging the law.

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, not exactly.

[Brad Clemens]

What do you mean?

[Rusty Clemens]

No, it's like this. Brad says he found something that'll put him in the clear on the charge of killing Enoch. Says that's why I broke loose. To get her this evidence.

[Brad Clemens]

No, he can't do that. Somebody's tricking him. He'll hang if he gives himself up.

[Rusty Clemens]

You don't seem to think so.

[Eric Hyde]

He will.

[Brad Clemens]

He hasn't got a chance.

[Eric Hyde]

Seems to me, Rusty, that you were always the first one to claim your brother wasn't guilty.

[Brad Clemens]

He ain't. If there was any evidence to clear him, it would have come out at the trial.

[Rusty Clemens]

Well, don't get too excited, Rusty.

[Brad Clemens]

Anything else you want me for, Sheriff? Nope.

[Rusty Clemens]

I guess that's all.

[Brad Clemens]

And I'll be running along. Good night.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Good night. What got into Rusty?

[Rusty Clemens]

Oh, worried about his brother, I guess.

[Eric Hyde]

Think he'd be glad to hear there was a chance of Brad clearing himself.

[Rusty Clemens]

Oh, I don't know, Eric. Some folks are funny.

[Eric Hyde]

See, that reminds me. The Lone Ranger. Have you had any word from him about the rustlers in my range?

[Rusty Clemens]

Not a peep. Well, if you folks excuse me, I'm going to run you out of here. I've got a lot of book work to do. Good night, and thanks for dropping in.

[Narrator]

But when he thought his office had cleared, the sheriff waited only long enough for his guests to be gone. Then he let himself out the back way.

[Rusty Clemens]

Is that you, sir?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Horses settle and waiting, Sheriff.

[Rusty Clemens]

Who is this with you?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Dan, Reed and Todd. All right.

[Rusty Clemens]

My hope is that you know what you're doing, big fellow.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Come on.

[Narrator]

When Rusty Clemens had left the sheriff's office so hurriedly, he had quickly made his way to his own horse, mounted and sent it racing from town. He headed toward the rough, wild country that opened at last. On a narrow clearing in a little cabin, he reined up his horse and dismounted.

[Rusty Clemens]

Oh.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Oh, boy. Brad.

[Eric Hyde]

Oh, Brady. The matter with you?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

What? Inside.

[Brad Clemens]

What's this I heard in town about you sending a message to the sheriff that you're gonna keep yourself up in the morning?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Like her.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Do it even sooner than that.

[Brad Clemens]

Oh, Brad, you can't. There's no evidence that'll clear you now, and you know it. Why go into town and stick your head in a noose?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

I've got the evidence.

[Eric Hyde]

All right, if you have, I want to see it.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Eric, what are you doing here? How'd you find the way?

[Eric Hyde]

Never mind that. Where's this evidence you're talking about?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You'd give a lot to know, wouldn't you? Say.

[Brad Clemens]

What is it?

[Eric Hyde]

Get up. Now hand it over, Brad.

[Narrator]

Whatever it is.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You don't think that gun scares me, do you?

[Eric Hyde]

Give it to me and I'll help you get across the border. It's either that or you and Rusty reach the End of your string. What do you think?

[Rusty Clemens]

You see, Rusty?

[Eric Hyde]

This is the buzzard that killed Enoch.

[Narrator]

He knows that any evidence that will.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Clear me will convict him. I ain't got time to argue, Brad.

[Eric Hyde]

I know you won't. Why you.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Oh, my arm.

[Brad Clemens]

Still don't savvy this.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

It isn't hard to understand, Rusty. Eric is not only the murderer of Enoch Kinsey, he's also the rustler of his own cattle.

[Eric Hyde]

You're crazy.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

You have another ranch on the other side of the valley. You own it under a different name and use the Circle O brand.

[Eric Hyde]

That doesn't prove anything.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Here you've been running the half Circle C. Nothing is easier than changing it to Circle O.

[Brad Clemens]

Why would Eric steal from himself?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

He didn't. The ranch really belongs to the bank. He's only made the first payment. The meantime, he planned to strip the range of cattle, rebrand them with a Circle O.

[Narrator]

How'd you find all this out?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Eric told me you lying. You told me you couldn't make any more payments on the ranch. That was the first I knew you didn't own it outright.

[Brad Clemens]

Well, I'll be doggone.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

He tried to put suspicion for the rustling first on you, Rusty, and on Deke. It was he who fired at me from Deke's shack.

[Brad Clemens]

And he knew where Brad was all the time.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Yes. He made just one mistake.

[Brad Clemens]

What is that?

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

He thought he was clever enough to call Dan, Toto and me. That we would help him put guilt on another person.

[Eric Hyde]

It's not true.

[Rusty Clemens]

I think it's true. Eric, you're under arrest for murder.

[Sheriff Matt Gorman]

Good. Come on, Dan.

[Rusty Clemens]

There's one funny part to this, Eric.

[Brad Clemens]

What do you mean, Sheriff?

[Rusty Clemens]

Eric was the one who wanted some outside help to capture rustlers. And when the help got here, they weren't satisfied with that. They caught him. Murder, too. It.

[Narrator]

The story you have just heard.

[Rusty Clemens]

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 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 donate 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.