The Phantom Killer | The Lone Ranger (11-06-42)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: The Phantom Killer | The Lone Ranger (11-06-42)
Release Date: June 30, 2026
Host: Andrew Rhynes

---

Episode Overview

In this digitally restored classic episode, "The Phantom Killer," The Lone Ranger and his faithful companion Tonto investigate a mysterious string of stagecoach murders along a new route in the Old West. Each time, the guard and driver have been found dead, seemingly without any injuries, and the stage's gold shipments have disappeared. As suspicion falls on the masked hero himself, The Lone Ranger must uncover the real murderer and clear his own name with help from young Dan Kern, the bereaved son of one of the victims.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Developments

1. A Dangerous Prank and A Deadly Pattern

• [04:44] Two boys, Dan Kern (stage driver's son) and his friend Tad, impulsively take the stagecoach for a ride, demonstrating youthful bravado and foreshadowing Dan's key role in the story.
• [06:45] The Lone Ranger and Tonto spot the boys recklessly driving the coach and intervene just in time to prevent disaster:
  • "A boy is driving that stage, Tonto. Now he's changing places with the other." — The Lone Ranger [06:56]
• [08:44] On a subsequent run, the stage arrives with both the driver and guard dead, and its cargo looted. Evidence points to murder, but with no visible wounds.

2. Suspicion Falls on the Lone Ranger

• [09:24] The Sheriff and Superintendent Rand arrive, shocked to find the masked Lone Ranger and Tonto with the coach.
  • "There's no two ways about it. Those men were murdered. And this masked army and the engine are the ones who did it." — Sheriff [10:09]
• [10:16] Rand accuses The Lone Ranger of murder and theft. Mob justice threatens as the townsfolk are riled up by grief and suspicion.

3. A Desperate Quest for Justice

• [12:29] Dan Kern, determined to avenge his father, pleads for the dangerous job of driving the stage.
  • "Give me the job driving a stage my dad drove before he died. Don't laugh." — Dan Kern [12:59]
• [13:10] The discussion highlights the grim context: six drivers dead, and no experienced man will take the route.
• [14:25] Moved by Dan's resolve, Rand gives the 14-year-old boy the job as stage driver.

4. A Secret Plan and Shifting Alliances

• [15:00] The Lone Ranger, eavesdropping, seeks to gather intelligence and clear his name.
• [16:00] He confronts Rand, demanding the stage's schedule, and a fight breaks out:
  • "Here are my guns. What now, Rand? Prove your point." — The Lone Ranger, before engaging in fistfight [16:03]

5. Laying a Trap for the Phantom Killer

• [19:24] In a pivotal overheard conversation, Sheriff and Rand plan to use a gold shipment to bait the murderer and post deputies along the trail.
  • "We'll have that killer bottled up no matter where he strikes." — Sheriff [20:10]
• [20:46] The Lone Ranger and Tonto realize the killer won’t take the bait with security on the trail. They devise their own trap, enlisting Dan’s help.

6. Revelation and Teamwork

• [21:21] Dan confronts the Lone Ranger, still believing he's the murderer. The Lone Ranger gives Dan a silver bullet as proof of his identity, turning suspicion into trust:
  • "What bunch of Silver bullet, silver bullet, masked man and a white horse. What? You're the Lone Ranger." — Dan Kern [22:27]

7. The Final Confrontation

• [24:39] Dan (driver), the Sheriff (guard), and the disguised Lone Ranger depart with the stage, watched by a curious crowd.
• [25:01] Tonto rides past, pursued by deputies, intentionally drawing all security off the trail and leaving the shipment exposed.
• [26:04] Rand, seeing security leave, reveals his own duplicity:
  • "Stupid fools, all of them, leaving their post to chase one innocent engine. Just what I needed to give me a chance at that gold." — Rand [26:04]

8. The Truth at the Waterhole

• [27:24] The Lone Ranger reveals himself at the water hole, preventing the Sheriff from drinking, ordering Dan to hold Rand at gunpoint if necessary.
• [29:33] The Lone Ranger exposes Rand’s scheme: he poisoned the water hole, a poison lethal to men but harmless to horses, causing the unexplained deaths and facilitating his stage robberies.
  • "It's poisoned." — The Lone Ranger [29:33]
  • "He put poison in this water hole. Poison ordinarily used to kill insects." — The Lone Ranger [29:57]
  • Rand’s guilt is confirmed when he refuses to drink the water and confesses: "No, don't make me drink it. I'll confess. I killed him." — Rand [30:33]

9. Resolution

• [30:42] Dan is vindicated for his courage, and the Lone Ranger vanishes as quickly as he arrived, restoring order and justice.

---

Notable Quotes & Moments

• On danger and heroism:

  • "We must warn them." — The Lone Ranger racing to save Dan and Tad [07:05]
  • "Your father is dead, Dan." — The Lone Ranger, with gravity [10:35]

• Accusation and mob fury:

  • "Let's lynch them two murderers!" — Mob, stirred by grief and suspicion [10:40]

• Heroic resolve and youth:

  • "I'll bring them horses through all right, Mr. Randy. When I get to Prairie City, I'll be driving them. They won't be pulling a corpse." — Dan Kern [14:05]

• Unmasking the villain:

  • "You want further proof, Sheriff? Make him drink that water." — The Lone Ranger [30:27]
  • "No, no, don't make me drink it. I'll confess I killed him." — Rand’s panicked confession [30:33]

• On truth and vindication:

  • "If it wasn't for you and the mask man. Why, he's gone." — Sheriff, showing gratitude after the case is solved [30:42]

---

Important Timestamps

• [01:15] Host Andrew Rhynes introduces the digitally restored series.
• [04:44–08:44] Dan and Tad’s fateful stagecoach ride; the first look at the stage murders.
• [09:24–10:40] Lone Ranger and Tonto accused of murder; mob scene ensues.
• [12:29–14:25] Dan requests and is granted the job as stage driver.
• [16:03] Lone Ranger and Rand fight over suspicions and schedule.
• [19:24–20:10] Sheriff and Rand plot to use gold as bait.
• [21:21–22:27] Dan discovers Lone Ranger’s true identity.
• [24:39–25:13] Deputies pursue Tonto, leaving the stage unguarded for the villain.
• [26:04–27:24] Stage arrives at the water hole; Rand makes his move.
• [29:33–30:33] Lone Ranger exposes Rand; the water hole mystery is solved and Rand confesses.
• [30:42] Conclusion; Lone Ranger rides off.

---

Episode Tone & Style

Maintaining the drama and straightforward heroism characteristic of Golden Age radio, this episode blends suspense, classic Western tropes (masked justice, stagecoach chases, clever outlaws), and a moral focus on courage, truth, and redemption. The dialogue is brisk, expressive, and era-authentic, with a strong emphasis on law, honor, and the moral clarity of the West.

---

Summary

"The Phantom Killer" delivers a classic Lone Ranger adventure with expertly restored audio, thrilling rescues, and a mystery that hinges on both Western grit and clever deduction. As suspicion and danger swirl on the open plains, the episode highlights themes of courage—especially as young Dan steps forward to confront evil—and the timeless power of justice personified by the Lone Ranger.

---

Transcript

[Lady Luck]

Hey everybody, lady luck here and we're celebrating America's 250th birthday. Now all summer long I'm going to be celebrating by playing on spinquest.com which is an American owned social casino. It obviously features over a thousand slot games and live blackjack, live craps, live bubble craps. Head on over to spinquest.com get yourself a $30 coin pack for just 10 bucks.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Pros Save more on what you need to get the job done right right now at Lowe's. Get 15% off, select custom entry and interior doors. Plus save $80 on the Dewalt 20 volt max 2 tool combo kit. Now just $169. And at the Lowes Pro desk bring us your materials list and get a quote in minutes. Handwritten, a photo or even a sticky note is all you need. Keep your jobs moving faster and on budget at Lowe's. Valid through 78 while supplies last selection varies by location.

[Dan Kern]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

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.

[Dan Kern]

O Silver Boy,

[Narrator]

Fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi o7 silver the Lone Ranger. Sam.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Sa.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Forget whatever plans you have this weekend because you're staying at home and playing on spinquest. And there's never been a better time to sign up than right now. New users get $30 coin packs for just $10. All the table games you love with hundreds of slot games and real cash Prizes. That's at spinquest.com S P I N Q U-E-T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Tunto, 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.

[Dan Kern]

Come on Silver. There's danger on the trail ahead. Miles Silver. Pull away.

[Narrator]

Outside the home of the driver of the Overland Express stage in Prairie City, two boys stood admiring the faded yellow coach and the team of four horses which were waiting to make the regular run to Doby. One of the youths, Danny Kern, was the stage driver's son. The other was his friend.

[Tad]

Someday I'm gonna be a stage driver just like my dad. It takes muscle to drive a four in hand. Well, you bet. And I got it, huh? Oh, look at this. If you don't believe me, that ain't so much. It's better than you can do. Well, I'll bet you can't drive a stage now. I bet you I can. I already done it.

[Dan Kern]

When?

[Tad]

Lots of times. Whenever dad takes me on one of his trips. You're just fooling. I am not. If dad wasn't going to drive that stage soon, I'd show you.

[Mr. Rand]

Go on.

[Tad]

I dare you to drive it. I tell you, Dad's taking it out on his run. It's easy to talk. Will you go with me if I do?

[Sheriff]

You mean you'll drive it if you go with me?

[Tad]

Well, you afraid? Of course not. Well, come on, then. All right. Come on.

[Narrator]

Quickly, the two boys scurried to the driver's seat of the stage, and Danny scooped up the reins with an air of authority. He spoke to the horses, then released the brake.

[Dan Kern]

Get out there. Get that horse.

[Tad]

We're moving.

[Dan Kern]

Of course we are.

[Tad]

I told you I could drive. Where we go? Out on the trail. Then I'll show you some real driving. You sure you know how?

[Dan Kern]

Oh.

[Sheriff]

Afraid he can't.

[Tad]

Look at him turning green. I am not. Hang on, then.

[Dan Kern]

Here we go. Get out. Get out there.

[Narrator]

Through the main street of town lumbered the stage. While town folk gaped at the two boys who sat in the driver's seat. Heedless of the warnings that were sheltered after them, Danny headed the four in hand for the Dobie Trail.

[Tad]

Oh, look at them horses. What?

[Dan Kern]

Hey, this is fun.

[Tad]

I bet I could drive it clear to Adobe. You ain't going to, though, are you? Oh, not this time, dad. It skinned me alive.

[Dan Kern]

Well, how far are you going?

[Tad]

Well, just for a spell down the road. You sure can handle them horses, Dan. Hey, you want to try your hand? Do you think I could? Oh, sure. As long as I'm here to help you. Maybe I better not. What are you scared of? Here, let me change places with you.

[Narrator]

As Dan half stood in the driver's seat of the fast moving stage, two riders quickly reined in their horses. One of them was A tall man who wore a white hat and a black mask. The other was an Indian.

[The Lone Ranger]

A boy is driving that stage, Tutto. Now he's changing places with the other.

[Mr. Rand]

Mm. That plenty dangerous.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, it's suicide. The stage is heading for a sharp curve.

[Narrator]

That's right.

[The Lone Ranger]

We must warn them.

[Dan Kern]

Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[Narrator]

Urging the powerful white stallion and the sturdy paint forward, the masked man and his Indian friend rode to intercept the sage before it was too late.

[Dan Kern]

Master Silver. Cinemas Count. It'll be close to hello. Take run and be fast. We've got to beat it. Final, Silver.

[Narrator]

From the fast moving stage, the boys suddenly saw the dangerous curve ahead.

[Dan Kern]

Dan, look.

[Tad]

Hey, give me those reins.

[Dan Kern]

Stop the horses. We'll overturn. Whoa. Whoa there. Whoa. They're running away. Whoa, Whole horse. Pull up there. Look. A mass man and an injured outlaw.

[Tad]

They're overtaking us.

[Narrator]

As the thundering stage drew closer and closer to the sharp curve ahead, the great horse Silver drew even with the driver's seat, then leaped inside the lead horse of the team. Quickly, the Lone Ranger grasped the team's reins.

[Dan Kern]

Whoa. Whoa, Puller, whoa.

[Narrator]

Raining on the reins, he slowly but surely pulled the team to a halt. Virtually on the brink of the turn, the coach lumbered to a halt.

[The Lone Ranger]

What are you boys doing with this team?

[Tad]

We were just taking her for a ride.

[The Lone Ranger]

A ride, huh? You might have killed yourselves.

[Tad]

We won't do it again. No, I better take it back now. My dad's a regular driver. He'll need it for the run to Doby.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll see you on your way. Help me turn the horses, Tuttle.

[Narrator]

A few days later, across the arid wastes of a sun bleached prairie, a puff of dust moved along a new wagon trail. Then a sudden breeze whisked the dust away, revealing a stagecoach bound for Prairie City. As the stage lurched wide around a bend, two horsemen watched its approach.

[The Lone Ranger]

There's something wrong with that stage, Tuttle.

[Mr. Rand]

Ah, horses run away.

[The Lone Ranger]

Look at the garden driver. Something's happened to them. Let's go.

[Dan Kern]

Get him up. Come home, Sil.

[Narrator]

A half hour later, a strange procession filed down the main street of Prairie City toward the express office. The town folk gaped as it slowly lumbered past, then buzzed with excitement.

[Dan Kern]

Sheriff. Hey, Sheriff. Stage is here, Sheriff. It's been wheelied again.

[Sheriff]

What's that?

[Dan Kern]

There it is. You can see for yourself. Look who's driving it. A masked man and a ninja.

[Mr. Rand]

What is it, Sheriff?

[Sheriff]

No yet, Rand. But I'm aiming to fire now.

[Mr. Rand]

I'll go with you.

[Dan Kern]

Me too.

[Sheriff]

Come down off that stage, you two. I've got you covered.

[The Lone Ranger]

Put those guns back in leather, Sheriff. How are friends?

[Sheriff]

I'll decide for myself who you are, mister. Meanwhile, if either one of you make a wrong move, you'll get a slug from those six guns.

[Dan Kern]

Hey, Sheriff. Yeah? The driver and the guard, they're dead. Narina. Mark on them.

[Sheriff]

That's the third time that's happened inside a month.

[Dan Kern]

Maybe they died of bad heart or something, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

Oh, you slow witted maverick. If it had been just once, you might be right. But six corpses have been brought in by stage. And all without a mark on them. What's more, the stage has been looted every time.

[Mr. Rand]

That's right, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

There's no two ways about it. Those men were murdered. And this masked army and the engine are the ones who did it.

[The Lone Ranger]

These two men were dead when we found them.

[Mr. Rand]

A likely story, huh, Sheriff?

[The Lone Ranger]

Who are you?

[Mr. Rand]

I'm district superintendent of the stage company, mister. And I'm charging you with murder and theft against the Overland Express.

[Dan Kern]

Come, dad.

[Tad]

Bring him up.

[Dan Kern]

It's Danny Kern, the stage driver's boy.

[Tad]

Let me through.

[Sheriff]

All right, get back there. Let the kid through.

[Dan Kern]

Dad.

[Tad]

Dad.

[Dan Kern]

Dad. Dad.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your father is dead, Dan.

[Tad]

Dad.

[Dan Kern]

You're the man.

[Mr. Rand]

That's the man who killed him.

[Dan Kern]

Let's lynch them two murderers. Come on, Toto. Steady, Silver. Out of my way now. Hold on now. Get him. Not so fast. Oh, my hands. Come on, Toto. Get him up. They're getting away. Come on. Somewhere,

[Narrator]

Sometime later, the Lone Ranger and Toto rode along the new stage trail seeking a clue to the mysterious murders.

[The Lone Ranger]

Somewhere along this trail, six men were murdered.

[Mr. Rand]

Toto.

[The Lone Ranger]

No sign of injury. Oh. What is it, Tado?

[Mr. Rand]

You look there.

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, big fella. The stage was driven off the trail and alongside that boulder.

[Mr. Rand]

Ah, big fellow.

[Sheriff]

Tracks.

[Narrator]

Maybe.

[Mr. Rand]

Find something.

[The Lone Ranger]

There are three sets of wagon tracks leading from the trail.

[Narrator]

Isn't that right?

[Mr. Rand]

Kimasabi may find something. You look here and rock.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gold dust. At least it looks like it. Gold was stolen from the stage.

[Narrator]

Not right.

[Mr. Rand]

What that mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

Working alone, the outlaw found the loot too heavy to handle. Without dropping and breaking the boxes, they drove the stage off the trail and slid them onto this boulder and probably onto pack horses. This dust trickled from the boxes.

[Narrator]

Oh, Todd is heavy now.

[The Lone Ranger]

That means he knew the garden driver would be dead when the stage got here. What?

[Sheriff]

Kill him?

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, big fella. The answer lies on the trailer head. Tuttle.

[Dan Kern]

Come on, Silver. Get him up.

[Narrator]

The next day, the sheriff was in the district office of the stage Company conferring with the manager.

[Mr. Rand]

All right.

[Sheriff]

His eyesight standing up.

[Mr. Rand]

Oh, just a minute, Sheriff. Who's there?

[Tad]

It's me, Mr. Rand. Danny Kern.

[Sheriff]

Danny Kern? That's the son of the stage driver who was killed yesterday.

[Mr. Rand]

I wonder what he wants.

[Sheriff]

Ask him in and find out.

[Mr. Rand]

Come on in.

[Sheriff]

Sorry about your pa's death, son.

[Mr. Rand]

Yeah, me too.

[Sheriff]

We mean to make it up to you by catching the yellow lived coyote who killed him.

[Mr. Rand]

Yeah, that masked man. His Injun friend.

[Tad]

Well, that's what I've come to see about, Mr. Rand. Mind, I want you to give me the chance to catch a critter that murdered my dad.

[Sheriff]

What's that?

[Mr. Rand]

How can I give you the chance, boy?

[Tad]

By giving me the job driving a stage my dad drove before he died. Don't laugh.

[Sheriff]

Oh, sorry, son. But I thought I heard you say you wanted to drive the stage.

[Tad]

I did.

[Sheriff]

Gee, Horse the Fat, the kid's plum serious.

[Mr. Rand]

How old are you, boy?

[Tad]

14, but I can handle a four in hand.

[Sheriff]

14? You got size and weight? Enough to pass for 18.

[Mr. Rand]

Where'd you learn to handle a four in hand?

[Tad]

My dad taught me. He used to take me with him on some of his trips.

[Sheriff]

And you think by taking your dad's place, you might meet up with the murderer?

[Tad]

Hmm, son, that's what I'm hoping.

[Sheriff]

The new stage trail runs through some pretty dangerous and deserted country. Danny.

[Mr. Rand]

Yeah? Driving that coach is a man's job.

[Sheriff]

Only one water hole in the whole stretch. When you come to it, you're so dog gone thirsty you like to drown yourself. Getting enough to drink.

[Tad]

I want that job, Mr. Rand.

[Sheriff]

You got the spunk for a stage driver, I'll say that, son.

[Mr. Rand]

I don't know.

[Tad]

I heard you needed drivers for the new stage trail since some killings commenced, Mr. Rand.

[Mr. Rand]

That's so.

[Tad]

I heard you couldn't get no experienced driver to take the job.

[Sheriff]

The boys got you there, Rand.

[Mr. Rand]

Six men have been murdered riding the stage on that trail.

[Sheriff]

Yeah?

[Mr. Rand]

And do you want the job in spite of it?

[Tad]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Rand]

What makes you think you'd bring the stage through when six grown men haven't been able to?

[Tad]

I'll bring them horses through all right, Mr. Randy. When I get to Prairie City, I'll be driving them. They won't be pulling a corpse.

[Sheriff]

Doggone it, Rand, let the boy try it. I like his nerve.

[Tad]

Just give me one chance, Mr. Rand. You haven't got anything to lose.

[Mr. Rand]

No, no. Nothing but four good horses and a stage and cargo.

[Sheriff]

Give the lad his chance. I've got an Idea.

[Mr. Rand]

All right, boy. The job's yours.

[Tad]

Oh, thanks, Mr. Rand.

[Mr. Rand]

Report to me here tomorrow. We'll take the stays at Dobie in the morning and drive it back to Prairie City in the afternoon.

[Tad]

Yes, sir.

[Dan Kern]

Goodbye.

[The Lone Ranger]

Goodbye.

[Sheriff]

Goodbye, dad. Good luck to you.

[Tad]

I got the job, Rex. Now I'll get the critter that killed my dad.

[Dan Kern]

Get that boy. Get up there.

[Narrator]

As the youth rode away, a lone ranger and Tonto watched from a nearby concealment where they had listened to the conversation.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going in now, Tono. I'll wait here and not chase you. I don't think so. I have a hunch there'll map out a plan after I get what I came for. I want you to overhear that plan.

[Narrator]

Tonto's happy.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll wait for you at the fork outside of town. Adios. Adios.

[Tad]

Hey.

[Dan Kern]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your guns in leather. They're covered.

[Sheriff]

Put them shooting irons down, stranger, and surrender in the name of the law.

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't come to surrender, Sheriff.

[Mr. Rand]

So you admit you're the killer.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll think that whether I deny it or not, Rand.

[Sheriff]

And you are the murdering coyote.

[The Lone Ranger]

No, I'm not, Sheriff. I came here for information.

[Mr. Rand]

Information? What kind?

[The Lone Ranger]

I want to know when the stage leaves here for Dobie. Tomorrow morning. When it's scheduled to leave Doby in the afternoon.

[Mr. Rand]

So you can murder more of our men and loot the coach again, huh?

[The Lone Ranger]

You're becoming insistent on that point, Rand. I don't like it.

[Mr. Rand]

Pretty brave when you're standing behind them six guns, aren't you?

[The Lone Ranger]

You think you'd be a match for me if I weren't?

[Mr. Rand]

I'd be twice the match of the likes of you, Mr. Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Here are my guns. What now, Rand? Prove your point.

[Mr. Rand]

Prove it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Miss that swing, Rand?

[Mr. Rand]

Well, I won't miss this.

[The Lone Ranger]

That'll loo for you, Ren.

[Sheriff]

What a wallop you got, stranger flush on the jaw.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, Random. I'll take that information.

[Mr. Rand]

It's against the rules to give to anybody except them. Advise a fair.

[The Lone Ranger]

Very well. I'll buy one. Never mind, Rand. That chart on the wall seems to be the schedule. I'll just help myself.

[Dan Kern]

No. No.

[Mr. Rand]

Stop him, Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

My gun.

[Mr. Rand]

Sheriff, if you please. He's getting away.

[Sheriff]

Stop him, Garnet. I've never seen anything like that mask man. Never.

[Dan Kern]

Oh, s.

[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.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Forget whatever plans you have this weekend because you're staying at home and playing on spinquest and there's never been a better time to sign up than right now. New users get $30 coin packs for just $10 all the table games you love with hundreds of slot games and real cash prizes. That's at spinquest.coms P I N Q U-E S T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Pros Save more on what you need to get the job done right Right now at Lowe's get 15% off select custom entry and inter plus. Save $80 on the Dewalt 20 volt max 2 tool combo kit now just $169. And at the Lowes pro desk bring us your materials list and get a quote in minutes. Handwritten, a photo or even a sticky note is all you need. Keep your jobs moving faster and on budget at Lowe's. Valid through 7 8. While supplies last selection varies by location,

[Narrator]

we the ones still show up holding hands.

[Bigger Picture US Announcer]

When times are tough, anyone can make an impact. Get inspired to show up for your community by listening to the full gotta be a song and be the people Share playlist.

[Dan Kern]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. After Lone Ranger escaped in a hail of bullets, Tonto crept closer outside the window and listened.

[Mr. Rand]

That's the second time you've let that mask on break it away from you, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

Oh, you're gonna hang on to grease light?

[Mr. Rand]

You better do something to catch him pretty quick.

[Sheriff]

I'm aiming to. Oh, what's the stage freight in Adobe tomorrow?

[Mr. Rand]

Oh, nothing valuable.

[Sheriff]

What's it carrying on the return trip?

[The Lone Ranger]

Gold.

[Sheriff]

Gold, eh?

[Mr. Rand]

You think we better move the shipment back a couple of days?

[Sheriff]

No, that gold's gonna stick to schedule.

[The Lone Ranger]

But I can't afford use it as

[Sheriff]

bait to lure the masked man into a trap.

[Mr. Rand]

Oh, what's your plan, Jeff?

[Sheriff]

I'll ride this stage on the return trip myself. I'll take the job as guard of the gold.

[The Lone Ranger]

You mean I'll swear in a lot

[Sheriff]

of new deputies today to post along the trail.

[Mr. Rand]

All along the trail?

[Sheriff]

Yep. At regular intervals.

[Mr. Rand]

Ain't no sense in stationing them in dry gulcher if that part of the trail's clean deserted. Ain't even a shrub for the murderer to hide behind.

[Sheriff]

I'm not taking any chances.

[Mr. Rand]

Well, I guess you're right.

[Sheriff]

We'll have that killer bottled up no matter where he strikes. Yeah, well, I'll be getting along. I've got a lot of deputies to swear him before tomorrow.

[Mr. Rand]

So you think you'll have the killer bottled up my sheriff.

[Narrator]

Urging his sturdy paint ahead. Tonto rode to the fork outside of town, where the Lone Ranger waited. He quickly reported what he had heard.

[The Lone Ranger]

The sheriff is poaching men all along the trail, Aunt Otto.

[Sheriff]

That right?

[The Lone Ranger]

That's the surest way to scare the killer off. To capture the murderer, we'll have to get those deputies away from the trail.

[Mr. Rand]

What we do?

[The Lone Ranger]

I have a plan, Tato. It'll require a third person to carry it out. Someone we can trust.

[Mr. Rand]

You, no person.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I think I do, kimosabe. Come on, Silver.

[Dan Kern]

Hold the color. Get him up.

[Narrator]

It was dusk when on the trail not far from town, Danny Kern heard the thunder of distant hoofs. Looking back, saw white stallion with a masked rider rapidly approaching. For a moment, he sat transfixed as the great horse Silver raced toward him through the gathering shadows of night. Then, recognizing the rider as the stranger he and Tad had met on the trail, the mysterious masked man whom he believed had murdered his father, Dan spurred his horse ahead the masked man.

[Dan Kern]

Get up, Rex.

[Tad]

We ain't got a chance against him without a gun.

[Dan Kern]

Get that boy. Wait, Dan. I want to talk to you. Come on, Rex.

[Narrator]

But try as he would to stretch the distance between him and the masked man, Dan soon found his efforts were of little avail. The onrushing stallion rapidly bridged the gap with powerful, sinewy strides. And the Lone Ranger reached for Dan's bridle.

[Dan Kern]

Horse's Silver.

[Tad]

Take your hands off that rein.

[Dan Kern]

Horse. Silver. Horror. Explode.

[Tad]

Suppose you're gonna kill me just like you did my dad.

[The Lone Ranger]

I didn't kill your father, Dan. You've got to believe that.

[Tad]

I suppose this Injun's innocent, too.

[The Lone Ranger]

Tahlo and I would like to be your friends, Dan.

[Tad]

You can't trick me like that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Dan, do you want to capture the man who killed your father?

[Tad]

You bet I do. And you're him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Toddle and I have a plan to trap the killer, but we need your help.

[Tad]

Oh, you don't fool me none, mister. If you really wanted to catch the killer, you just walk into the sheriff's office and give yourself up.

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps this will change your mind about me.

[Tad]

What bunch of Silver bullet, silver bullet, masked man and a white horse. What? You're the Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Shall we talk about that plan now, Dan?

[Dan Kern]

You bet we would.

[Narrator]

Late the following afternoon, there was a bustle of activity before the express office in Doby. It was almost time for the departure of the stage for Prairie City, and an exceptionally large and curious crowd of townfolk had gathered to watch how the 14 year old son of a slain stage driver handled the 4in hand on his return run. But Dan, made confident by the success of his trip from Prairie City, ignored their interest and whispered comments with the aplomb of a veteran.

[Dan Kern]

Whoa.

[Tad]

Hold up there, horse.

[Dan Kern]

Whoa. Whoa there.

[Tad]

Whoa. All right, Hank, hit some horses at the stage.

[Dan Kern]

Just as you say, Danny.

[Sheriff]

You handle that foreign hand like a veteran already, sir.

[Tad]

Thanks, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

Gold all stored aboard?

[Tad]

Everything's in order.

[Sheriff]

Good time to be moving, ain't it, Danny?

[Tad]

Almost, Sheriff. We. We got a passenger.

[Sheriff]

A passenger?

[Tad]

He's coming out of the office now.

[Narrator]

A tall man in nondescript clothes stepped out of the express office and into the stage. A secret preparation of wild berries and herbs applied to his face by Tonto and almost magically changed its appearance. Where not long before the Lone Ranger had stood, now walked an ordinary cowhand.

[Dan Kern]

Horses are all hitched, Annie.

[Tad]

Thanks, Hank. Ready, Sheriff?

[Dan Kern]

That passenger better get moving if you want to make it to Prairie City on time. We're moving right now.

[Tad]

Come on, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

All set there.

[Dan Kern]

Get up there, horse. Get up there. Come on, get up. Get up, horse. Get up.

[Narrator]

Leaving the outskirts of Dobie, the stage gathered speed, then settled into a steady run under Dan's expert hands. Unknown to the sheriff, the quarry he so eagerly sought as he fastened his eyes on the trail sat disguised as a passenger inside the coach.

[The Lone Ranger]

How far away from the waterhole, Sheriff?

[Sheriff]

Quite a ways to go yet, Stranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

Have your men seen anything of the outlaw?

[Dan Kern]

No.

[Sheriff]

When that mask feller and his Indian friend hold up the stage this time, they'll find a mass of trouble.

[The Lone Ranger]

What's that?

[Sheriff]

I don't know.

[Dan Kern]

It's coming from behind us. Why, it's your deputy, Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Chasing someone injured.

[Dan Kern]

Helam up town of Gong. That redskin. Get up. Get up. Get on. Get up. After him, boys.

[Sheriff]

Don't let that engine escape.

[Narrator]

Riding like the wind, Tonto dashed along the stage trail toward Prairie City with the sheriff's deputies in hot pursuit. Attracted by the thundering hoops and the sound of gunfire, each man in turn left his post and joined the chase.

[Dan Kern]

You cover me. You come engine. Come on, horse. Get up there. Get up.

[Bigger Picture US Announcer]

Get up.

[Narrator]

Past the express office in Prairie City sped the chase. Superintendent Rand went to the window to see what the excitement was.

[Mr. Rand]

Stupid fools, all of them, leaving their post to chase one innocent engine. Just what I needed to give me a chance of that gold.

[Narrator]

It was some time later when Danny Kern brought the stage to a stop at the water hole. Yeah. Afternoon sun blazed down on the Trail with an almost intolerable heat and dust clogged the hot air as the stage slowly rumbled to a halt. Fidgeting beside Dan on the driver's seat, the sheriff eyed the water hole with keen anticipation of a drink from it to cool his parched throat.

[Dan Kern]

Pull up there. Whoa. Easy there.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Easy there.

[Dan Kern]

Whoa. Whoa there. Whoa, man.

[Sheriff]

I don't know about you two, but I'm making for that waterproono. I'm so dry I could drown myself.

[Tad]

Just a minute, Sheriff. Come on, there, Horses.

[Sheriff]

Hold on, Danny. If you got no better sense to let them horses drink first. They'll muddy up the water.

[Tad]

Them horses are mighty thirsty, Sheriff.

[Sheriff]

So am I. I ain't hankering to drink water after horses have stirred it up.

[Tad]

Well, maybe you better wait till we get to Prairie City for a drink.

[Sheriff]

Sheriff gone local lad. Get them horses out of here. Even muddy water's better.

[Narrator]

Suddenly, from the direction of the stage, a tall man who wore a white hat and a black mask and silver mounted six guns hung low at his hips, strode toward the sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll drink that water, Sheriff. The masked man, also your passengers.

[Sheriff]

You mean this?

[The Lone Ranger]

I removed my disguise in the coach.

[Sheriff]

Chopin, juniper and all. My deputies went chasing that Injun.

[The Lone Ranger]

That was necessary to give the killer a chance to expose himself.

[Sheriff]

You don't have to expose yourself to me, mister. I know who you are.

[The Lone Ranger]

Then take this gun.

[Tad]

Yes, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

If he tries to drink that water, shoot him.

[Dan Kern]

What in Thunder. Hey, Silver.

[Sheriff]

So you two are in cahoots all the time.

[Mr. Rand]

The killer's as greedy for gold as

[The Lone Ranger]

I think he is, Sheriff. I'll bring him to you.

[Dan Kern]

What?

[The Lone Ranger]

Easy, big fella. Remember, Dan, don't let him drink that water.

[Tad]

Yes, sir.

[Dan Kern]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

Down the trail, Thunder. The powerful white stallion. His flying hoop struck sparks from jutting stones, and his nostrils widened as the masked man urged him to even greater speed. Then, partly concealed by a boulder, they sighted their quarry. Who?

[Dan Kern]

Silver. Ho, ho. I want you, Rand.

[The Lone Ranger]

Keep your hands away from those holsters.

[Dan Kern]

What do you want?

[The Lone Ranger]

I want you for murder.

[Dan Kern]

Murder? You must be loco.

[The Lone Ranger]

No use stalling, Rand. I have proof you'll ever take me a second time.

[Dan Kern]

For you, Ren.

[The Lone Ranger]

No. You do, John.

[Dan Kern]

Oh. You wrote me out of my saddle. You're coming with me, Rand.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver.

[Dan Kern]

Where are you taking me? To the water hole.

[The Lone Ranger]

You'll talk there.

[Narrator]

At the water hole. In the baking heat of the afternoon sun, Dan Kern kept his vigil, watching the angry sheriff grow angrier by the minute. As his eyes thirsted on the water, Dan's guns wouldn't permit him to drink. Pleas, arguments, offers of leniency to Dan in exchange for a mouthful. The water availed him nothing and he lapsed into bitterness.

[Sheriff]

To think I encouraged Rand to give you this job. And you working for the killer.

[Tad]

I tell you, sheriff, the masked man ain't the killer.

[Sheriff]

I reckon your paw would say different.

[Tad]

Well, the masked man will be back soon, then. You'll see.

[Sheriff]

Well, I want a drink of that water. My throat is parched.

[Tad]

Oh, no you don't. You don't touch that water.

[Sheriff]

My throat's parched.

[Tad]

Can't help it. Sir, my orders are you aren't to drink that water.

[Dan Kern]

Oh, boy.

[Tad]

Whoa. Silver, ho.

[Sheriff]

Darn it. What's wrong with this water?

[The Lone Ranger]

It's poisoned.

[Sheriff]

Sheriff Rand, what are you doing here?

[Mr. Rand]

Arrest this man.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff Rand is a mysterious killer, Sheriff.

[Mr. Rand]

That's a lie.

[The Lone Ranger]

When he saw Tano chased by your deputies, he hurried to murder you and Dan as he did the others.

[Mr. Rand]

Don't listen to him, sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

I found him where I expected, in a bowler. Where he planned to rob the stage of the gold.

[Sheriff]

Is that right, Rand?

[Dan Kern]

No, no.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ask him what he's doing on the trail with these pack horses.

[Sheriff]

How could he kill six men and not leave a mark on them?

[The Lone Ranger]

He put poison in this water hole. Poison ordinarily used to kill insects.

[Sheriff]

Oh, Dan's horses drank that water and they're as healthy now as before.

[The Lone Ranger]

Horses aren't effective to the poison, Sheriff. Men are.

[Sheriff]

So that's why you and Dan were so anxious not to let me drink.

[Tad]

That's it, Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

One hour after the six men drank here, they were dead. Rand waited at the bowler where he could be certain of it.

[Mr. Rand]

His lion.

[Dan Kern]

Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

After looting the stage, Rand sent the horses on again. You'll find the stolen goods at his home.

[Sheriff]

You yellow livered murderer.

[Mr. Rand]

Don't touch me. Sheriff.

[Dan Kern]

I tell you he's lying.

[The Lone Ranger]

You want further proof, Sheriff? Make him drink that water.

[Sheriff]

Go on, Rand, drink it.

[Mr. Rand]

No, no, don't make me drink it. I'll confess. I killed him.

[Dan Kern]

I killed him.

[Sheriff]

I ought to drown you in it, you murdering scum.

[Tad]

I told you I'd help catch the murderer, didn't I, Sheriff?

[Sheriff]

Yes, you did that daily. If it wasn't for you and the mask man. Why, he's gone.

[Tad]

Yep, he's gone.

[Lady Luck]

Hey, guys. Lady luck here. Are you going on any road trips this summer? I know I'm going to be going on a bunch of road trips. And being that I'm going to be passenger princess, I Love playing on Spinquest.com Spinquest has all of my favorite slot games. Live Blackjack Live Craps Head on over to Spinquest right now and get yourself a $30 coin pack for just 10 bucks.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Pros Save more on what you need to get the job done right Right now at Lowe's, get 15% off select custom entry and interior doors plus save $80 on the DeWalt 20 volt max 2 tool combo kit now just $169. And at the Lowes Pro desk bring us your materials list and get a quote in minutes. Handwritten, a photo or even a sticky note is all you need. Keep your jobs moving faster and on budget at Lowe's. Valid through 78 while supplies last selection varies by location.

[Lady Luck]

When it's time to scale your business, it's time for Shopify. Get everything you need to grow the way you want like all away. Stack more sales with the best converting checkout on the planet. Track your cha chings from every channel right in one spot and turn real time reporting into big time opportunities. Take your business to a whole new level. Switch to Shopify. Start your free trial today.

[Sheriff]

Sam.

[Narrator]

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

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate 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 Like Copyright for more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Dan Kern]

Sam.

[Lady Luck]

Hey guys, Lady Luck here. Are you going on any road trips this summer? I know I'm going to be going on a bunch of road trips and being that I'm going to be Passenger Princess, I Love playing on Spinquest.com Spinquest has all of my favorite slot games Live Blackjack, live craps. Head on over to Spinquest right now and get yourself a thirty dollar coin pack for just ten bucks.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Spin Quest is a free to play social casino. Voidware prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Pros Save more on what you need to get the job done right right now at Lowe's. Get 15% off select custom entry and interior doors plus save $80 on the DeWalt 20 volt max 2 tool combo kit. Now just $169. And at the Lowe's Pro desk bring us your materials list and get a quote in minutes. Handwritten, a photo or even a sticky note is all you need. Keep your jobs moving fast and and on budget at Lowe's. Valid through 78 while supplies last selection varies by location.

[Narrator]

Oh beautiful.

[Sheriff]

Spreading love everywhere we go all of

[Dan Kern]

my everyday people we're the proof.

[Bigger Picture US Announcer]

Alright, now your turn. Create your own version of Gotta Be Us and post it using BeThePleOpenCall for a chance to win a trip to record it in a professional studio. Plus have it played for a panel of music execs. X Come on, you've got this. No purchase necessary. Open June 18 through July 12, 2026 to legal residents of the U.S. 16 plus minors require parental consent. CP the People. Open Call.com for details. Sponsored by Bigger Picture US.