The Pony Express Agent | The Lone Ranger (01-17-41)

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "The Pony Express Agent" | The Lone Ranger (01-17-41)

Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Episode Date: November 22, 2025

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Main Theme and Purpose

In this episode, the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast presents a digitally restored airing of The Lone Ranger episode "The Pony Express Agent," originally broadcast on January 17, 1941. The story centers on intrigue and corruption at a Pony Express station in the Old West, as the masked hero uncovers a plot involving political manipulation, murder, and blackmail. Through tightly drawn dialogue and suspenseful action, the episode explores themes of justice, redemption, and the ongoing struggle between honest settlers and corrupt officials.

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Key Discussion Points and Story Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene and Introducing the Characters

• The episode opens with the iconic introduction of the Lone Ranger, setting the tone for justice in the untamed West.
  [03:48]
• Two Eastern officials, Mr. Seeley and Jenkins, travel to Jonesburg to meet Dan Slade, the local Pony Express agent rumored to have a checkered past but given a chance for redemption.
  [04:47 – 05:43]
• Tension is built around Slade’s expected government pardon, and the arrival of Billy Cody (the young mail rider) hints at the real-life roots of the story, referencing “Buffalo Bill.”

2. Slade’s Character and Motivation

• Slade’s criminal past is acknowledged:

  “I say that in spite of the murders I’ve had to do in the past... They had to be done. Can’t make an omelette without breaking eggs.”
  — Dan Slade [08:01 – 08:08]

• The Lone Ranger expresses concern over the influence of Seeley and the type of men holding public office:

  “Frankly, Slade, I don’t like the type of men in office. They aren’t doing the best things for the States.”
  — Lone Ranger [07:46 – 07:50]

3. The Conspiracy Emerges

• Mr. Seeley pressures Slade: he offers the government pardon—in exchange for Slade’s help in tampering with the results of the coming election. Slade is asked to swap the official election returns with a forged envelope.
  [10:07 – 11:32; 18:08 – 18:47]
• Slade is deeply conflicted, holding onto his own moral code:

  “Speaking of honesty, I may have killed, but I stayed honest according to my own code.”
  — Dan Slade [11:32 – 11:39]

4. Murder and the Lone Ranger’s Investigation

• Jenkins is killed unexpectedly at the local café by a gunman (Slotkin). The Lone Ranger pursues and captures Slotkin, extracting a confession that he killed Jenkins on orders—part of the same political conspiracy.
  [12:04 – 15:09]
• Slotkin, terrified:

  “You don’t know half of what’s going on around here… Everyone that’s likely to make trouble is killed.”
  — Slotkin [15:44 – 15:54]

5. The Sting: Exposing the Conspiracy

• The Lone Ranger and Slade coordinate a plan: Slotkin is used to lure Seeley to a secret meeting under a bridge.
• Seeley reveals his true colors, showing no intention of helping Slotkin and coldly denying involvement in the murder, despite the mounting evidence.
  [20:10 – 21:43]

  “In the first place…I do believe you should hang for the shooting of my friend.”
  — Seeley [21:06 – 21:13]

6. The Lone Ranger’s Moral Argument

• The Lone Ranger appeals to Slotkin’s only hope: a fair trial where the full conspiracy can be exposed, offering not freedom, but justice:

  “You’ve got one chance to get prison instead of hanging, and that chance lies in a fair trial where the truth will come out.”
  — Lone Ranger [23:28 – 23:34]

7. The Climax and Justice Served

• The Lone Ranger, Slade, and lawmen confront Seeley, using his own words and offers as evidence against him.

• Slade receives his pardon and rejects Seeley’s offer to commit fraud.

• Marshal and deputies step forward; Seeley and Slotkin are placed under arrest for conspiracy and murder.
  [28:04 – 29:04]

  “You put me in a position where I can make men like Slotkin murder men like Jenkins.”
  — Dan Slade [28:27 – 28:31]

  “It was a frame up…and it was what you deserved, Seeley… The West has no room for your kind.”
  — Lone Ranger [29:03 – 29:11]

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Memorable Quotes & Notable Moments

• On Redemption and Justice:
  “You already have that pardon, Celie. And you’ve been trying to use me. Well, you’ll still be given time to eat your last meal.”
  — Dan Slade [27:10 – 27:21]

• Lone Ranger’s Masked Identity:
  “Perhaps I found the East too full of politics and corruption in public office. Perhaps I sought a country where there wasn’t such internal conspiracy. Isn’t that quite possible?”
  — Lone Ranger [25:48 – 26:00]

• The Final Confrontation:
  “You’re under arrest, Cely.”
  — Lone Ranger [28:44]

  “Good work tonight, Slade.”
  — Lone Ranger
  “Thanks to you, Lone Ranger, that it is.”
  — Dan Slade [29:11 – 29:15]

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 04:47–06:16: Introduction of Seeley, Jenkins, and their mission in Jonesburg
• 07:00–08:08: Lone Ranger and Slade discuss Seeley’s influence and the ethics of lawmen in the West
• 10:07–11:32: Seeley’s blackmail—dangling the pardon for tampering with the election
• 12:04–15:09: Jenkins’s murder, Lone Ranger’s pursuit and interrogation of Slotkin
• 18:08–18:47: Seeley presses Slade again to swap the election results
• 23:04–24:42: The Lone Ranger outlines the stakes: Slotkin’s chance for justice
• 25:04–27:21: The plan is set; Seeley is tricked and confronted with his own corruption
• 28:04–29:11: Lawmen arrest Seeley and Slotkin; justice is declared

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Tone and Atmosphere

The episode is saturated with tension, coded language, and the crackle of frontier morality. The Lone Ranger’s stoic righteousness contrasts with Seeley’s duplicity and Slade’s gruff weariness. The soundscape of galloping horses, distant gunshots, and sparse dialogue evoke the classic Western “theater of the mind,” reworked here with modern audio clarity.

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Conclusion

This classic Lone Ranger drama showcases the enduring power of old-time radio storytelling. At its core is a battle not just of bullets, but of conscience and loyalty—a vivid drama brought to life by the restored sound and thoughtful curation of the OTR Westerns podcast.

For listeners: If you want a prime example of early 20th-century American radio blending entertainment and moral lessons, “The Pony Express Agent” delivers a masterclass in both intrigue and old-fashioned justice.

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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. 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.

[Narrator]

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

[Dan Slade]

It's sam.

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[Narrator]

In the early days of the Western United States, the reins of territorial government were often seized by unscrupulous men. Outlaws and corrupt officials were tanned in gloves. The honest settlers were left without any court of appeal until the masked rider of the plains started his great fight for justice. It was his strength and courage that upheld the principles of American democracy and made the frontier a land of equal opportunity. 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. Hello Silver. We're heading for Jonesburg. There's going to be trouble. Hi O Silver. Hello away. Two well dressed men sat in A coach that clattered along the trail. The town of Jonesburg was just ahead.

[Mr. Seeley]

I'll be more than delighted to reach Jonesburg, Henry. It's been a hard trip.

[Dan Slade]

You'll find it worthwhile, my friend.

[Mr. Seeley]

I only wish I were the one.

[Dan Slade]

To give some the good news.

[Mr. Seeley]

I dare say, Celie.

[Dan Slade]

You'll see an expression you never saw.

[Mr. Seeley]

In a man's face before. I don't know, Henry. You will, or my name's not Henry.

[Lone Ranger]

Jenkins.

[Mr. Seeley]

They tell me Slade is one of the most impassive of men. Bokeh, they call it.

[Dan Slade]

Perhaps he had to be that, living the hard life he has lived.

[Mr. Seeley]

But there are not many men who.

[Dan Slade]

Have committed the crimes accredited to Slade who are given a full and complete pardon by the government.

[Mr. Seeley]

Probably not. And he deserves it. You think so?

[Dan Slade]

J.C. why don't you?

[Mr. Seeley]

Slade was put in the Jonesburg station.

[Dan Slade]

Because no other man could survive the outlaws in the vicinity. Slade has dealt with them.

[Mr. Seeley]

Dealt with them? You know. Hey, J.C. still a fair job?

[Dan Slade]

Fair? It's been stupendous. There's not another one like him.

[Mr. Seeley]

No? Well, I'll judge better when I've met him.

[Dan Slade]

What of his pardon?

[Mr. Seeley]

You have the papers? In my pocket. Good. Oh, Jenkins, by the way.

[Dan Slade]

Yes?

[Mr. Seeley]

I'd appreciate the favor if you'd attend to a small matter for me while I talk to you, Slade.

[Dan Slade]

What is it?

[Mr. Seeley]

Spend some time looking about the town of Jonesburg. See what there is to it.

[Dan Slade]

While you talk to Slade?

[Mr. Seeley]

Yes. You don't mind?

[Dan Slade]

Well, I. I'll be disappointed. I'd hoped to see him when he.

[Mr. Seeley]

Was told that he'd never be punished.

[Dan Slade]

For his past crimes and could start life anew.

[Mr. Seeley]

Sentimental rubbish. Slade would react, of course, if you.

[Dan Slade]

I'll do what you ask, Celie.

[Mr. Seeley]

I would especially like to know about the recreation centers, the cafes or whatever they have. Confidentially, I might venture a small sum in a business effort here. You and your hat. Of course, my friend. Very well, Mr. C. I'd like to know how many places there are. How they're connected. What sort of entertainment they offer.

[Dan Slade]

All right, son.

[Narrator]

On your way now.

[Dan Slade]

Yeah. What a lad he is. Well, did you notice the boy that's carrying that mail?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, I did, Slade. He seemed young.

[Dan Slade]

14. That's what he is. Just 14. And the best rider that comes through here. His name's Cody. Billy Cody. You'll hear of him someday.

[Lone Ranger]

I hope. Not the way we've heard of you, Slade.

[Dan Slade]

Oh, I've changed.

[Lone Ranger]

I hope you stay that way.

[Dan Slade]

Married? Settled down Strange Thing for a man of my career, isn't it?

[Lone Ranger]

It had to come, Slade. Have you heard from the government yet?

[Dan Slade]

Well, no. No, I haven't. I'm expecting to, though. A man named Seely's been working in my behalf. I'm counting on a pardon.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know Slade. How well do you know this man, Seeley?

[Dan Slade]

I never saw him. Why do you ask?

[Lone Ranger]

He seems to have a lot to say around the country west of here. Almost everyone who holds public office owes it to the efforts of this man Seely.

[Dan Slade]

Is that so?

[Lone Ranger]

And frankly, Slade, I don't like the type of men in office.

[Dan Slade]

Why?

[Lone Ranger]

They aren't doing the best things for the States.

[Dan Slade]

Was that why you came here? White horse mask and all that? You know, we've helped each other a few times. Lone Ranger. You know we can trust each other.

[Narrator]

Now.

[Dan Slade]

I say that in spite of the murders I've had to do in the past.

[Lone Ranger]

Those murders, Slade, I. Well, it's time. Too late to recall them.

[Dan Slade]

They had to be done. Can't make an omelette without breaking eggs. What I was getting at though. Why not come out and tell me why you're here? You're after information. What is it?

[Lone Ranger]

I'd sooner wait until you get your pardon. If you do get it. Why, let's wait. And there's a coach coming down the trail. I'd sooner not be seen here masked like this. I'll go around and back near the horses.

[Mr. Seeley]

Oh, over there.

[Narrator]

Over there it is.

[Mr. Seeley]

Hello. Is this the Jones work station?

[Dan Slade]

That's right. Right place in help you down, sir. Thanks.

[Mr. Seeley]

Decent of you. My name is Celia. Celia from Washington.

[Dan Slade]

I'm delighted, Sir.

[Mr. Seeley]

This is Mr. Jenkins. He's going to look around a bit. Look at your town over.

[Dan Slade]

Very well. I'm sorry we haven't more to show him.

[Mr. Seeley]

I'm looking for a man named Slade. Station master here, I think.

[Dan Slade]

Yes, Slade is in charge.

[Mr. Seeley]

Don't seem a butt. Rough looking fellow, isn't he?

[Dan Slade]

Oh, that's a matter of opinion.

[Mr. Seeley]

Kill him. Dare say. He'd be a bad one to cross Cutes to kill at the drop of a hat.

[Dan Slade]

Not unless there's good reason.

[Mr. Seeley]

Well, where is he? I haven't time to waste.

[Dan Slade]

My name is Slade.

[Mr. Seeley]

I don't care what your name is at you. Your name. You mean to say you are Slade?

[Dan Slade]

At your service, Mr. Seeley.

[Mr. Seeley]

That's one on you, Seely. Well, I'll have that look about town. Yes, yes, go ahead. I'm sorry. I didn't mean any offense.

[Dan Slade]

Why don't you step inside? Fresh coffee and soup. I can prepare something more solid if you'd like.

[Mr. Seeley]

Hey, well, yes, yes, let's go inside. I hope you haven't taken offense at what I said. I really didn't mean it.

[Dan Slade]

Charlie, take the stage in there and water the horses.

[Narrator]

Right away, Mr. Swain. Come on, Rocky.

[Dan Slade]

Sit down there. Thanks. I hope you'll like the coffee house lead.

[Mr. Seeley]

I came here to speak to you in person. It's about the pardon I've been working to get for him. Oh, yes, There's a lot of trouble connected with it. It isn't as easy as you might think.

[Dan Slade]

I'm sorry you've been so trouble.

[Narrator]

Oh, no, no, no.

[Mr. Seeley]

It isn't that I don't mind. Don't mind the least. In fact, I'm always glad to do a man a favor. Like putting money in the bank, you might say. I help a man, man helps me.

[Dan Slade]

You know my case. I'm afraid that won't work.

[Narrator]

Eh?

[Dan Slade]

There's nothing I could possibly do to help you.

[Mr. Seeley]

I wouldn't be too sure about that. Election is coming at all.

[Dan Slade]

Election by vote, you mean?

[Mr. Seeley]

Well, as a matter of fact, Slade, there's something you can do for me. The Puny Express will carry word of the election, of course. It will be the fastest that a report of an election has ever been sent to the West.

[Dan Slade]

Yes, there's no question about that. But you were speaking about my pardon.

[Mr. Seeley]

If I keep working, Slade, I can assure you that you will have the pardon.

[Dan Slade]

It means everything to me.

[Mr. Seeley]

The difference between being a citizen, a solid citizen, and hanging. That's what it means to you.

[Dan Slade]

Yes, I'm aware of that.

[Mr. Seeley]

As I said, I can assure you of the pardon, but I must keep working to get it. That's why I don't hesitate to ask a slight favor of your.

[Dan Slade]

A favor?

[Mr. Seeley]

A favor. Well, the election report will come through this station. You'll have a chance to glance at the envelope and I may want you to take that report and substitute. An envelope which I will leave here with you.

[Dan Slade]

Is that honest, you slate? Speaking of honesty, I may have killed, but I stayed honest according to my own code.

[Mr. Seeley]

You wouldn't care to hang?

[Dan Slade]

In short, sir, you're making a proposition.

[Mr. Seeley]

You know exactly what I'm making.

[Dan Slade]

That was a shot.

[Mr. Seeley]

Wait. Wait a minute.

[Dan Slade]

Sleep. Wait for what?

[Narrator]

Trouble at the cafe. He will make away.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll see. What's going on there, Sylvie.

[Narrator]

Whoever shot him got away.

[Dan Slade]

Damn it.

[Narrator]

Where'd he go?

[Lone Ranger]

I didn't see. Who is the Jan, he's done for.

[Dan Slade]

He's from the east.

[Mr. Seeley]

Came in on the stage. Hey, there's a mask man. Oh, he didn't do the shooting. I seen the killer. He hightailed down the west trail.

[Lone Ranger]

Who is this man? Grab this masked man.

[Mr. Seeley]

Stand back.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't reach for guns. I'm not here to hurt anyone. But on the other hand, I'm not going to be shot at just because I'm masked. Who is the dead man? He come in on the stage from the east. Yeah, mister, he's an easterner. He come in with a gentle calling on Slade at the Pony Rider station. Why was he shot? Gosh, I don't know.

[Mr. Seeley]

Me neither.

[Lone Ranger]

We don't know how he came about the critter that shot him. Headed west.

[Dan Slade]

Thanks.

[Lone Ranger]

Hey, wait a minute. Who are you? Come on, Silver.

[Mr. Seeley]

Yes, Mr. Jenkins was my friend. I'll see that he is given the proper burial. I'm deeply touched by a sudden end. I can't imagine who would want to kill him.

[Lone Ranger]

None of us seem to know the critter that done the shooting.

[Mr. Seeley]

What about the man who started after him?

[Lone Ranger]

Man who started after?

[Mr. Seeley]

That's what I'm asking. He rode a horse he called Silver. Who was he?

[Dan Slade]

We don't know him either.

[Mr. Seeley]

He's been around here before.

[Dan Slade]

Seems to be a friend of Dan Slade.

[Mr. Seeley]

I wonder who he is.

[Dan Slade]

He wears a mask.

[Mr. Seeley]

Mask Him? Outlaw friend, no doubt. Possibly someone who demands favors from Slade. Well, it doesn't matter. The main thing right now is to arrange for the proper burial of my friend.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger by hard riding overtook the killer and ordered him to halt. Rain up there. I don't want to have to drag you from the sand at that speed.

[Dan Slade]

Keep away from me, I tell you.

[Narrator]

You can hit me right up. Keep away. I'm going to toss a roof on you. You'll get a bad fall. I'll take my changes. All right, then.

[Lone Ranger]

Back.

[Narrator]

Sylvie. Let go of you. Let me lose you, you fool. You made me drag you from the saddle.

[Lone Ranger]

Why didn't you rain up?

[Narrator]

I never believed roping like that could be done. Now we'll have a talk.

[Lone Ranger]

Get on your feet. Yeah. Come on.

[Dan Slade]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I am. Hey, what's your idea anyhow? Who are you? What you wrote me. First.

[Lone Ranger]

I want to know who you are and why you shot that Easterner.

[Narrator]

I got nothing to say.

[Lone Ranger]

There are ways to change your mind about talking. I don't want to have to use those ways, but I'll do whatever I have to.

[Narrator]

You can't make me talk.

[Lone Ranger]

Maybe not right now, but I can make you walk behind my horse. You'll walk until you're ready to drop. First, I'll take that gun of yours.

[Narrator]

No, no, wait. You can't get away with that sort of thing.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll see. Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

Hey, hold on.

[Lone Ranger]

Anytime you're ready, you can start talking.

[Narrator]

I can't drive like this. Oh, my feet.

[Lone Ranger]

What's your name?

[Narrator]

Slotkin.

[Dan Slade]

Right.

[Narrator]

Up. I can't keep this up.

[Lone Ranger]

Why did you shoot Mr. Jenkins?

[Narrator]

Wait. Wait a second. Oh, boy, I gotta get my breath.

[Lone Ranger]

Why did you shoot Jenkins?

[Narrator]

I had to do it. It was to save all of us.

[Lone Ranger]

What do you mean by that?

[Narrator]

He's from Washington. He was scheming. He aimed to put all my friends out of office.

[Lone Ranger]

Perhaps with the men in office are friends of a killer and they'd be better out of office. Who sent you to kill him?

[Dan Slade]

I don't know.

[Lone Ranger]

Maybe you'd better walk some more.

[Narrator]

Oh, no, no, honest. I don't know who sent me. All I know is what the letter said.

[Dan Slade]

What letter?

[Narrator]

I burned it last like it said to do. I was ordered to put Jenkins out of the way in Jonesburg. That's all I know. Honest. It's. It's a true stranger.

[Lone Ranger]

I think we'll go back and get your horse. And then you'll go to my camp.

[Narrator]

For what?

[Lone Ranger]

There's a lot of information I want from you, Slotkin. It'll be far easier for you to talk in my camp.

[Narrator]

Oh, they won't let me. I won't get the chance to talk. I'll be killed. Everyone that's likely to make trouble is killed. Oh, don't. Don't take me with you, stranger. I don't want to die.

[Lone Ranger]

Watkin, you're a badly frightened man.

[Narrator]

I admit it. I'm scared out of my shoes. You don't know half of what's going on around here. You don't know the way things are organized in the name of mercy. Let me go. It's the same as murder for you to make me keep in these plots. It's the same as murder. 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 moment.

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[Dan Slade]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue our story. When the details of Jenkins burial have been arranged, Seely returned to the express office. He found Slade standing out in front and repeated his proposition.

[Mr. Seeley]

It won't be at all difficult, Slade. You'll see the mail that goes through here on the Pony express.

[Dan Slade]

I always have seen it.

[Mr. Seeley]

The election returns will come through here tomorrow or the next day at the latest. Here's the envelope with that report. Has it crossed in the lower corner. He will replace it with this one.

[Dan Slade]

Why?

[Mr. Seeley]

Why?

[Dan Slade]

Yes. Why do you want another envelope substituted, Mr. Seeley?

[Mr. Seeley]

Because I want it, that's all. You needn't know the reason. All you need to know, Slade, is that your pardon depends upon the effort I put forth to secure it for you.

[Dan Slade]

Uh huh.

[Mr. Seeley]

You understand?

[Dan Slade]

Yes, I understand.

[Mr. Seeley]

This report will be addressed to California, you know.

[Dan Slade]

I know I can count on you then, Mr. Seeley.

[Narrator]

No.

[Dan Slade]

I've been wondering about Henry Jenkins, that friend of yours.

[Mr. Seeley]

Wondering about him? Why?

[Dan Slade]

Odd the way he was murdered, wasn't it?

[Mr. Seeley]

It is more surprising to find you so concerned about a mere killing. I thought you took such things in a quite casual way.

[Dan Slade]

Jenkins wasn't the sort of man who gets killed ordinarily.

[Mr. Seeley]

But what is the point of the present conversation, Slade?

[Dan Slade]

No point. Perhaps Mr. Seeley.

[Mr. Seeley]

I believe he. Now, you can find me at the hotel if you want me.

[Dan Slade]

One minute. That Indian riding tortoise seems to be signaling to you.

[Narrator]

What is it?

[Dan Slade]

Indian seller.

[Lone Ranger]

Seller named Seeley.

[Dan Slade]

What about him?

[Lone Ranger]

Tonto. Got message. Plenty important.

[Mr. Seeley]

Well, hand it over. My name is Celine.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, here. Message.

[Mr. Seeley]

Where did you get this message?

[Dan Slade]

Color give to Tonto. Whom?

[Lone Ranger]

Small color, plenty dark skin.

[Dan Slade]

Plenty dark hair, plenty beard.

[Mr. Seeley]

Where is he now?

[Dan Slade]

Me show you something important. Ce?

[Mr. Seeley]

Nothing that concerns you, Slade. Come with me in the end.

[Lone Ranger]

Tanto. Come.

[Mr. Seeley]

Step over here. Bed.

[Lone Ranger]

What you want?

[Mr. Seeley]

I want to meet the man who gave you this message. Oh, I noticed a clump of cottonwood trees a few miles east of here. The trail goes over a bridge near those cottonwood trees. I'll be beneath that bridge at sundown. Tell the man who sent this note to meet me. There is nothing for you.

[Lone Ranger]

No, I may not want money. Sundown under bridge undertale.

[Narrator]

I'm in trouble and you gotta help me.

[Mr. Seeley]

Mr. Sealy, you said something of that sort in your message. What made you think I could help you? I don't even Know you.

[Narrator]

You're the one that's got all the influence. My name is Slut and I. I'm known as the one that shot Jenkins.

[Mr. Seeley]

By whom?

[Narrator]

I reckon sooner or later everyone will know it. Then there'll be a posse out and I'll be found and took to jail. As it is, I'm being hunted anyhow. That's why you've gotta help.

[Mr. Seeley]

I can't see where your welfare is any concern of mine. If you are the one who shot Jenkins, is there any reason why you shouldn't pay for your crime?

[Narrator]

You can't let me down. You're the one that benefits by it. All your friends are holding offices right now. You know that Jenkins had to be killed. I was ordered to do the job.

[Mr. Seeley]

Didn't go for help to the one who gave that order.

[Narrator]

I can't look to him for help. The election's over. With the right man in elected, he'll have to work to cover up what he's been doing. Then lied out of the country.

[Mr. Seeley]

The report on the election hasn't reached here yet.

[Narrator]

But it will tomorrow. The pony rival bring the report. It'll get to California before I can get.

[Mr. Seeley]

I'm sorry. Your problem is a new concern of mine. Only my curiosity prompt me to meet you.

[Narrator]

Why won't you help me?

[Mr. Seeley]

I think you must be mad. You realize that you've as much as said that I ordered my good friend Jenkins killed. Oh, but why should I do such a thing as that?

[Narrator]

I don't know six alive. Mr. Seeley. If you only said the word, then the rest of the organization would let me alone. I could dodge the law all right, but I can't help you.

[Mr. Seeley]

Did you say your name was Slutkin? Well, Slutkin, there's nothing I can do for you. I don't know what you're talking about. In the first place. In the second place, you're a self confessed murderer. And I do believe you should hang for the shooting of my friend. As a matter of fact, don't pull.

[Narrator]

No gun on me.

[Mr. Seeley]

You're not armed. Where is your gun?

[Narrator]

I ain't got it.

[Mr. Seeley]

That's interesting.

[Narrator]

Quiet down. Listen. Celia. Stop it.

[Lone Ranger]

Silly.

[Mr. Seeley]

Go You.

[Narrator]

I said drop that gun.

[Apollo Advertiser]

Don't shoot.

[Mr. Seeley]

Don't shoot me.

[Lone Ranger]

All right, Slotkin. Come up here on the bridge with me. Now.

[Narrator]

Let me go. Now. Strange. I've done all you wanted me to do.

[Lone Ranger]

Come here.

[Narrator]

But look, I.

[Lone Ranger]

Board your horse and ride with me. We've other places to go.

[Narrator]

Yeah.

[Mr. Seeley]

Who are you? What's the Meeting of this.

[Lone Ranger]

Can I tell you a lot of meanings to it? Silly. It would do no good. So I'll tell you nothing. Mount up, Slotkin. I am. Now get going.

[Narrator]

Get up there, boy. Come on.

[Lone Ranger]

Our plan worked out fairly well. And it's sure of Seeley's position now. That's good. Yes, he went to the bridge. The mere fact that he went there shows he's guilt. That's right. The next problem is to prove that guilt. Slotkin is going to help us do that.

[Narrator]

Help you? So you can turn me over to the law?

[Lone Ranger]

That's right, Slotkin.

[Narrator]

But hang it all, it don't make sense. It ain't fair. I help you, I do what I'm told and then I'm handed to the law on a murder charge.

[Lone Ranger]

That's right. But look, would you prefer being turned over to the law with its present officers, huh? You know very well you're handed to the law now. You'll never get a trial. They wouldn't dare risk the things that you're in a position to tell.

[Narrator]

I can't prove a thing.

[Lone Ranger]

They'd know that I would. And that's where you're wrong. Seely knows you sent for him. He doesn't know how much else you're aware of. But look, you've got one chance to get prison instead of hanging. And that chance lies in a fair trial where the truth will come out.

[Narrator]

No matter what I do, I'm in trouble to my neck.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, Lutkin. And Henry Jenkins is dead. Dead simply because he apparently knew something that Seely wanted kept a secret. Jenkins didn't even have the benefit of a trial by jury. What Seely fellow want? He wants Dan Slade to replace the official report of the election with a false report. The new officials move into power in Washington. The grafters who are in office in the west will have to cover their tracks and then get out. They'll need time to do that.

[Narrator]

But how will sending a fake report to the west give them time?

[Lone Ranger]

If the public thinks the same officials are to remain, there'll be no action taken. For the time being. The public has to be misled.

[Narrator]

What's this about Dan Slade.

[Lone Ranger]

Slade has been given to understand that if he doesn't do what Seely wants, he'll get no pardon.

[Narrator]

I begin to savvy how slick this Seely gent is.

[Lone Ranger]

I begin to understand a few things too, Slutkin. I can think of only one reason for the Jenkins murder. What's that? You'll find out after it gets dark. Tonight? Yes. Now sit down. You're going to have to learn just what you're to do. After I've talked to you. I must call on Dan Slade. We're going to have an interesting night ahead of us.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger Code called on Dan Slade. And then, when night had fallen, he crept to a window in the rear of the hotel. He saw an oil lamp burning on a table. And near it, the man from the east. The window was open. The masked man brought his gun above.

[Dan Slade]

The window sill and steadied it.

[Lone Ranger]

Celie, don't cry out or move.

[Mr. Seeley]

Who is it?

[Lone Ranger]

Right here at the window. See me.

[Mr. Seeley]

You again.

[Dan Slade]

What do you want?

[Lone Ranger]

Come with me.

[Mr. Seeley]

Through that window.

[Lone Ranger]

Through this window. Slade is waiting for you. I'm going to take you to him. You can go in one of two ways. Quietly, of your own accord, or even more quietly. Unconscious, in fact. And perhaps faster.

[Dan Slade]

I'll come to you.

[Lone Ranger]

I thought you would. I'll help you out of the window.

[Mr. Seeley]

But the slate wouldn't be. Why did he send a gunman to get me? A message would have sufficed.

[Lone Ranger]

Slade is in no mood to wait. A rider from the east is coming tonight In a few moments.

[Mr. Seeley]

I thought he wasn't due until tomorrow.

[Lone Ranger]

This way.

[Mr. Seeley]

Celie, I can't understand you or your position.

[Lone Ranger]

My position may become clearer to you in a little while.

[Mr. Seeley]

That mask. Why do you wear it?

[Lone Ranger]

Obviously to hide my face.

[Mr. Seeley]

You speak like an Easter lamb.

[Lone Ranger]

Perhaps I was. Perhaps I found ease too full of politics and corruption in public office. Perhaps I sought a country where there wasn't such internal conspiracy. Isn't that quite possible?

[Mr. Seeley]

You're the only man I've ever known out here to whom I could speak on equal terms. We might go far. If you.

[Lone Ranger]

Equal terms? Well, yes, let's leave that open. For a discussion that'll never come right up those steps. Celie, this lady's there in his office waiting for you. Walk right in.

[Dan Slade]

Well, Mr. C. Shut that door, won't you, Slade?

[Mr. Seeley]

What is the meaning of this? I'll have you know I'm not accustomed to being treated.

[Dan Slade]

Speaking of custom, I have a meal prepared, Wild Turkey. And I can recommend it. Won't you eat?

[Mr. Seeley]

Eat?

[Dan Slade]

It's an old custom to give the condemned man a last meal.

[Mr. Seeley]

Condemned man? Looky here.

[Lone Ranger]

Sit down, Celine.

[Mr. Seeley]

See here? This attitude is something I Do.

[Dan Slade]

I have some time to ask you what you prefer. And I thought you'd like turkey. Though, of course, I might be wrong. Celie, you'll know when the rider comes.

[Mr. Seeley]

Rogue about about what?

[Dan Slade]

You've spoken of my past records, Celie. I have killed men. Men who deserved it. Men who lied to me or tried to double cross me. You wouldn't do that, would you?

[Mr. Seeley]

Whatever gave you that impression?

[Lone Ranger]

I hear a horse coming.

[Dan Slade]

Good. Sit right where you are, Celie. There should be a message for me.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll see you about it.

[Dan Slade]

A message about my pardon. You already have that pardon, Celie. And you've been trying to use me. Well, you'll still be given time to eat your last meal.

[Mr. Seeley]

You wouldn't dare to shoot me. You couldn't. I'm an important man. You'd hang in no time.

[Dan Slade]

Rather farsighted, Celie. Let me show you what I have behind this door.

[Mr. Seeley]

Who's that?

[Narrator]

He's captured me. He's gonna frame me for your killing. Make him let me out of here, Celie.

[Dan Slade]

He might as well hang for two murders as for one. And there'll be no question of his guilt in anyone's mind. Didn't he kill your friend Jenkins?

[Mr. Seeley]

You can't do this.

[Dan Slade]

But I can. I flatter myself that I'm of more value to this country than Slutkin. Therefore, it'll be better if he's hanged for your murder. Of course. You yourself know best whether you should be afraid. Unless you've lied to me, there isn't a thing in the world for you to worry about. We'll know as soon as a message is brought in. The writer's stuff.

[Mr. Seeley]

Now, Chris.

[Dan Slade]

Sleet.

[Mr. Seeley]

I found it.

[Dan Slade]

Found what?

[Mr. Seeley]

Your pardon. I have it. I have your pardon here.

[Dan Slade]

Indeed, yes. Here.

[Lone Ranger]

Here.

[Dan Slade]

Take it. Read it.

[Mr. Seeley]

You are a free man.

[Dan Slade]

Interesting. Now I won't have to rob the Pony Express for you, will I?

[Mr. Seeley]

Sleet?

[Dan Slade]

I.

[Mr. Seeley]

That is.

[Dan Slade]

Do you still want me to show my gratitude for this pardon by letting a false report of the election results go through to the West?

[Mr. Seeley]

I'd appreciate it, Slade. I can do lots more for you.

[Dan Slade]

I might like a bigger job.

[Mr. Seeley]

I get it for you. I'll make you rich.

[Dan Slade]

You put me in a position where I can make men like Slotkin murder men like Jenkins.

[Mr. Seeley]

If you wish it, yes. Anything you want.

[Dan Slade]

I think by this time, Seely, I have everything I want.

[Lone Ranger]

All we need, Slade. Good handler.

[Mr. Seeley]

Who is this?

[Dan Slade]

There were some men to hear our conversation. A United States Marshal. His deputy.

[Lone Ranger]

You're under arrest, Cely.

[Mr. Seeley]

I framed it, I think, to be.

[Dan Slade]

Charged as a plenty against you. Slutkin as well. Come here. I want to show you something. That wasn't the pony rider, was Lone Ranger's. Friend Tondo coming to meet him. What? Yes, the pony rider will be here on schedule in the morning. It was all a trick.

[Mr. Seeley]

It was a frame up episode.

[Lone Ranger]

It was what you deserved, silly. The west has no room for your kind of skinny.

[Mr. Seeley]

Ruined.

[Dan Slade]

Ruined.

[Mr. Seeley]

I've been tricked. I've been swindled.

[Lone Ranger]

Good work tonight slave.

[Dan Slade]

Thanks to you, Lone Ranger that he is.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on.

[Narrator]

Fell.

[Apollo Advertiser]

Tired of juggling sales tools or spending hours on prospecting just to book a few meetings? Meet Apollo, the go to market platform for finding leads, connecting with buyers and closing deals all in one place. Apollo gives you access to over 210 million contacts and AI that handles all your busywork finding leads, drafting emails and even prioritizing your day. So stop paying for five different sales tools when one does it all. Visit Apollo I.O. and sign up free today.

[Dan Slade]

Sam.

[Narrator]

The story you have just 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 and Ron W. Who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739. This episode is copyrighted under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Apollo Advertiser]

Tired of juggling sales tools or spending hours on prospecting just to book a few meetings? Meet Apollo, the go to market platform for finding leads, connecting with buyers and closing deals all in one place. Apollo gives you access to over 210 million contacts and AI that handles all your busy work finding leads, drafting emails and even prioritizing your day. So stop paying for five different sales tools when one does it all. Visit Apollo I.O. and sign up free today.