The Red Mark | The Lone Ranger (07-16-51)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "The Red Mark | The Lone Ranger"

Podcast Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Rines
Episode Title: The Red Mark | The Lone Ranger
Release Date: July 30, 2025

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Introduction

In this thrilling episode of The Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rines masterfully resurrects the classic tales of the Wild West with enhanced audio quality, bringing to life the iconic characters and gripping narratives that defined the golden age of radio. Titled "The Red Mark | The Lone Ranger," this episode delves into a suspense-filled investigation revolving around a mysterious stagecoach robbery, suspicion, and the relentless pursuit of justice by the legendary Lone Ranger and his loyal companion, Tonto.

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Setting the Stage

The story unfolds in Badger City, a small western town, and its surrounding areas. The serenity of the frontier is disrupted when a stagecoach carrying a substantial sum of money is ambushed. The atmospheric audio restoration allows listeners to vividly imagine the scene with sounds like birds chirping, the creak of saloon doors, and gunfire, immersing them deeply into the narrative.

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Main Characters

• The Lone Ranger (Silver): The masked vigilante and champion of justice, known for his unwavering dedication to law and order.
• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's faithful Native American companion, wise and resourceful.
• Jeb Veeley: Owner of the Last Chance Mine, a reputable figure in Badger City.
• Hank Dorgan: A cunning café owner with a dubious past and potential ties to criminal activities.
• Randy Larkin: Son of the deceased lawyer Andrew Larkin, ambitious and determined to clear his family's name.
• Andrew Larkin: A respected lawyer whose death and past actions play a pivotal role in the unfolding drama.
• Sheriff Tahoe: The town’s lawman caught between justice and public opinion.

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Plot Summary

1. The Stagecoach Robbery (00:46 - 05:19):

   • The episode opens with a vivid description of the Lone Ranger and Tonto riding Silver through the plains, setting a heroic tone.
   • In Badger City, Jeb Veeley conducts his routine of depositing payroll money into his home, entrusting his son Peter Veeley with signing the receipt. Expressing concern, Peter voices his unease about the large sum, fearing responsibility if the money is stolen.
   • Meanwhile, a masked highwayman ambushes the stagecoach, demanding the payroll money. Through tension-filled dialogue (e.g., Peter Veeley [04:42]: "All right, all right. Hold your fire."), the robbery unfolds swiftly.

2. Investigation Begins (05:26 - 08:12):

   • The Lone Ranger and Tonto arrive at the scene, meticulously examining evidence like a knife with initials HD and torn bandana pieces, suggesting the thief's identity might be Henry Dorgan.
   • The duo consults Andrew Larkin, a lawyer, who recounts his efforts to trace the tracks but admits the robbery remains unsolved. Larkin hints at Dorgan's past misdemeanors, intensifying suspicion.

3. Suspicion Falls on Randy Larkin (09:08 - 14:25):

   • A year after the robbery remains unresolved, Andrew Larkin passes away. His son, Randy Larkin, attends a dinner at Dorgan's Café, where tension escalates as Dorgan accuses Randy of owing him money.
   • The discovery of a marked $20 bill (with a red circle) at the café implicates Randy, leading to town gossip and mounting suspicion. Quotes such as Hank Dorgan [12:03]: "This is part of Jeb Veeley's stolen payroll money" highlight the crux of the conflict.

4. Randal's Struggle and The Lone Ranger’s Intervention (15:27 - 19:59):

   • Randy faces ostracization and struggles to secure employment, contemplating moving away. The Lone Ranger and Tonto observe the town's unrest, recognizing the need to clear Randy’s name.
   • The episode reveals deeper layers of Dorgan’s deceit, as the Lone Ranger deduces Dorgan’s manipulation to frame Randy. Key dialogue includes Tonto [14:22]: "Dorgan will never forget that your father took him to court and pressed a case that resulted in a thousand dollar fine."

5. Confrontation and Revelation (20:22 - 27:32):

   • The Lone Ranger, doubling as Tonto, devises a plan to expose Dorgan by leveraging the marked money. Disguised as an Indian, he confronts Dorgan at the café. The tension peaks when Dorgan tries to bluff his way out, but the presence of the marked bills forces a confession.
   • The climactic showdown occurs at Dorgan’s home, where he attempts to resist arrest, leading to his downfall. Through pivotal exchanges like Randy Larkin [26:50]: "I didn't want anyone to think that dad wasn't alive to defend himself," the truth emerges, exonerating Randy and capturing Dorgan.

6. Resolution and Justice Served (27:29 - 27:32):

   • With Dorgan apprehended, the sheriff acknowledges Randy’s innocence, restoring his reputation and offering him a position with the stage line. The episode concludes on a note of justice and community restoration, reinforcing the Lone Ranger's role as a protector.

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Notable Quotes

• Peter Veeley [04:42]: "All right, all right. Hold your fire. We don't want to die. Here's the cash."
• Tonto [07:06]: "He should be jailed for life."
• Randy Larkin [10:27]: "He hated my dad. Now that Dad's gone, he probably hates my sister kitting me."
• Tonto [14:25]: "There must be some way to prove that Dorgan is a thief. We must find that way."
• Randy Larkin [16:52]: "I know, sir. I brought it on purpose to pay that. That polecat."
• Tonto [18:00]: "I've heard of your trouble in connection with the $20 bill."
• Randy Larkin [27:29]: "Oh, golly, golly. Thanks, Mr. Morley."
• Sheriff [27:32]: "Son, you should never have had a minute's doubt about your dad."

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Insights and Themes

• Justice vs. Prejudice: The episode underscores the dangers of suspicion and prejudice, showcasing how unfounded accusations can tarnish reputations and disrupt lives.
• Loyalty and Honor: Randy’s unwavering loyalty to his father’s legacy and his integrity in the face of false allegations highlight the virtues of honor and steadfastness.
• Cunning Deceit: Hank Dorgan’s manipulative tactics illustrate the lengths to which criminals will go to frame others and escape justice.
• The Role of Heroism: The Lone Ranger and Tonto embody the quintessential heroes, using wit and courage to uncover the truth and uphold justice.

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Conclusion

"The Red Mark | The Lone Ranger" is a compelling narrative that blends suspense, drama, and classic Western motifs. Through meticulously crafted dialogue and immersive soundscapes, Andrew Rines delivers an episode that not only entertains but also imparts timeless lessons on justice, integrity, and the triumph of good over deceit. For listeners who cherish the rich storytelling of old-time radio westerns, this episode is a testament to the enduring legacy of legendary heroes like the Lone Ranger.

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Transcript

[Peter Veeley]

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

[Peter Veeley]

Ho, Silver.

[Hank Dorgan]

Let's go, big fellow. Hey, you.

[Peter Veeley]

Silver. Hooray.

[Narrator]

Jeb Veeley owned the Last Chance Mine, but lived in Badger City, 30 miles away. On the first of the month, he went, as usual to the bank, grew a large sum in paper money and took it to his home. While a man from the mine stood watching, Veeley made up the payroll and put the money into a leather sack.

[Peter Veeley]

Well, there you are, Pete. All set. Just sign this receipt for the cash and I'll sign it. But, dad. Rattlet, Mr. Veeley, I don't like signing for so much money. If someone robbed the stage, I'd be responsible. It'll take me a mighty long time to pay back $10,000 out of my salary. Oh, nonsense, Peter. I couldn't hold you responsible for the loss. Well, all the same, I worry. From the time I sign these things until I turn the cash over to the foreman. It's just a precaution. That's all, Pete. Just good business practice. You sure take plenty of precautions, Mr. Reeley. Well, you better hurry, Pete. It's time for the stage to leave.

[Narrator]

A few miles west of Badger City, the trail had been cut through a dense forest. Trees and underbrush grew close to both sides of the road. When the stagecoach reached that point, a tall, thin man leaped into view and fired a warning shot.

[Hank Dorgan]

Pull up there. Rein in nosed horses, or I'll blast you from the sea.

[Randy Larkin]

Hold.

[Peter Veeley]

Hold there.

[Tonto]

Ho. Ho.

[Peter Veeley]

Ho.

[Narrator]

A bandana with holes cut for the eyes concealed the man's face.

[Randy Larkin]

Don't shoot.

[Peter Veeley]

Don't shoot, mister.

[Hank Dorgan]

Throw out that payroll money.

[Peter Veeley]

All right, all right. Hold your fire. We don't want to die. Here's the cash.

[Hank Dorgan]

Now get going and make it faster. I'll let you have it.

[Peter Veeley]

Get up. Get up.

[Narrator]

A few minutes after the highwayman had ridden away. A lone ranger and Tottle came out of the woods on the opposite side of the trail and drew their horses to a halt.

[Peter Veeley]

Gunfire come from near here.

[Hank Dorgan]

Kimosabi.

[Tonto]

These tracks are fresh. The stage passed since the rain stopped.

[Peter Veeley]

We not here stage.

[Tonto]

We were too far away. We barely heard the gunfire.

[Peter Veeley]

Maybe gunfire means stage held up.

[Tonto]

We ride along the trail and see if there's any break in the stride of the horses. Come on, get him up.

[Peter Veeley]

Scout.

[Narrator]

In less than a hundred yards, the masked man saw where the stagecoach horses had been brought to a halt.

[Tonto]

We'll look around, Paulo.

[Narrator]

The boot marks of a man who had stepped from the shelter of the trees were clearly visible in the moist dirt. A moment later, the lone ranger and Tonto found where the highwayman had waited. There they found a knife that had probably been used to cut eye holes in a bandana. The bits of cloth that had been cut out lay on the ground here.

[Peter Veeley]

Initials. A knife.

[Tonto]

HD Tuttle. They might mean Henry Dorgan.

[Peter Veeley]

AH him run cafe in Badger City.

[Tonto]

He's run cafes in many places.

[Peter Veeley]

This knife prove him hold up stage?

[Tonto]

Not necessarily. But take more than a knife to convict that man. He's very smart.

[Peter Veeley]

We take knife to sheriff in Badger City.

[Tonto]

I don't know the Sheriff Tahoe, but I do know Andrew Larkin. We call on him.

[Peter Veeley]

Him lawyer.

[Tonto]

Yes. He'll make the most of this evidence. First we'll try to follow the tracks through the woods and see where the robbery.

[Narrator]

It was after dark when the lone ring Gerontato reached the home of Andrew Larkin. Larkin was a fine looking man who lived with his son and daughter. He examined the knife and the bits of cloth from the bandana.

[Andrew Larkin]

The report of the robbery came in some time ago. Jeb Veeley's payroll was stolen. Approximately $10,000.

[Tonto]

Who reported it?

[Andrew Larkin]

Viley's messenger. He borrowed a horse from a ranch and rode back. The sheriff went out and brought in word that he had found the tracks of three men.

[Tonto]

Only one man committed the robbery. The other tracks were made by Toto and me.

[Andrew Larkin]

The sheriff tried to follow the tracks through the woods, but he very quickly lost them.

[Tonto]

Toto and I followed them until dark. They led in a roundabout way toward Badger City.

[Hank Dorgan]

Yes.

[Andrew Larkin]

These initials on the knife.

[Tonto]

HD you have a newcomer in Badger City. His name is Henry Dorgan. I hope Larkin you can prove he committed the robbery.

[Peter Veeley]

Why?

[Tonto]

Because in several towns he sold liquor to Indians. Has never been punished for it. He's too smart.

[Andrew Larkin]

He's been punished for it here.

[Tonto]

He has?

[Peter Veeley]

Yes.

[Andrew Larkin]

I Got evidence against him? He paid a fine.

[Tonto]

He should be jailed for life.

[Andrew Larkin]

Well, I'll talk to the sheriff. If Dorgan committed the robbery, we'll do our best to convict him. You may be sure of that.

[Tonto]

Good.

[Andrew Larkin]

Will you and Tonto be nearby?

[Tonto]

No, Larkin. We're on our way to call on a friend. Padre.

[Andrew Larkin]

I'm sorry. I'd like my son to meet you both.

[Tonto]

Is he here?

[Peter Veeley]

No.

[Andrew Larkin]

He and his sister are visiting in Mud Flats until next week.

[Tonto]

Perhaps we'll meet the next time.

[Andrew Larkin]

I do hope so. Randy is a good boy.

[Tonto]

We left our horses in the rear of the house. We'll go out that way.

[Narrator]

That evening, under cover of darkness, Hank Dorgan buried the boots that would have fitted the footprints on the trail and the bandana that covered his face. When the sheriff called at the cafe, he admitted that the knife was his and said it had been lost for several weeks.

[Hank Dorgan]

The hold up man must have found it. Sheriff left it at the scene to throw the blame on me.

[Sheriff]

I suppose you have an alibi for the time of the robbery?

[Hank Dorgan]

I was home taking a nap, the same as every afternoon. Old Windy, my housekeeper will swear to that.

[Sheriff]

So that's your story, eh?

[Hank Dorgan]

That's right, Sheriff. But I'll be on the lookout. If any of that mark money turns up in my cafe, I'll let you know.

[Sheriff]

Hey, what do you know about marked money?

[Hank Dorgan]

Vely told me about it. He said every one of the stolen bills had a little red circle in the corner, so he asked me to watch for him.

[Sheriff]

Veeley told you, eh? Yeah, I wish Billy tend to his gold mine and let me handle the robberies.

[Narrator]

The robbery went unsolved. It was about one year later when the lawyer, Andrew Larkin, died after a lingering illness. Two days following the funeral, his son Randy met John Morley, owner of the stage line, for dinner in Dorgan's Cafe.

[Tonto]

I'm sorry, Randy, that you find it necessary to give up your plans to study law.

[Randy Larkin]

I don't mind, Mr. Morley. My dad was a mighty fine lawyer, but he never got rich.

[Tonto]

Well, just a minute, Randy. What is it, Dorgan?

[Hank Dorgan]

You want me to put these two dinners on your bill, Mr. Morley?

[Tonto]

Yes, of course.

[Hank Dorgan]

And speaking of bills, as a matter of $20.

[Randy Larkin]

I know what you're getting at, Dorgan. You've told several people my dad died owing you $20. Well, I don't believe it. I don't think he ever came into this cafe to buy anything from you.

[Hank Dorgan]

All right, then, let it go. I can afford to lose the money.

[Randy Larkin]

I don't intend to let it go. I brought the $20 for you. Here, Take it. Now, I don't want to hear any more about dad owing you money.

[Hank Dorgan]

I never expected to collect that debt. You know, one of these days I might do a little paying back on my own hook and not with cash.

[Tonto]

Randy, that sounded like a threat.

[Randy Larkin]

He hated my dad. Now that Dad's gone, he probably hates my sister kitting me.

[Tonto]

Dorgan will never forget that your father took him to court and pressed a case that resulted in a thousand dollar fine. Are you sure you can afford that $20, Randy?

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, yes, sir. I brought it on purpose to pay that. That polecat.

[Tonto]

You said you had to go to work. Did your father leave anything?

[Randy Larkin]

He left the house to my sister and me and a little cash in a tin box. He used up most of his ready cash during the last few months when he was sick.

[Tonto]

Any debts?

[Randy Larkin]

Well, he left the names of two people he owed money to in St. Louis. With his cash and what I'd earned working part time for you, I managed to pay up everything. I sent the money to St. Louis this morning.

[Tonto]

How you fix now?

[Randy Larkin]

Well, I'll have to get a job within a couple of weeks, or a kit and I are likely to go hungry. I sure would like to drive one of your stagecoaches. I can handle it, Mr. Morley. I know I can.

[Tonto]

Well, I have no doubt you can drive a six in hand, Randy. Well, you've seen me on a regular run. There's more than just driving the horses. Driver must be a man who can be trusted. Large sums of money.

[Randy Larkin]

Well, you can trust me.

[Tonto]

Well, I don't question your honesty, lad. I need men who are fast with a gun. You know, we sometimes carry a great deal of cash. Remember the Veeley robber?

[Randy Larkin]

I'd have shot it out with that crooked. I can handle a gun.

[Tonto]

Well, if you were a few years older. Well, I'll think it over, Randy.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, thanks, mister.

[Peter Veeley]

I like it.

[Randy Larkin]

Yeah. What is it, Dorgan?

[Hank Dorgan]

You just gave me a $20 bill. Well, is this the bill?

[Randy Larkin]

I guess so.

[Tonto]

It looks like it seems to be torn the same way.

[Hank Dorgan]

This is the bill you gave me. There's no doubt of it.

[Randy Larkin]

What about it?

[Hank Dorgan]

For the past year, the law's been waiting for one of these bills to turn up.

[Randy Larkin]

What do you mean?

[Hank Dorgan]

I mean this is part of Jeb Villa stolen payroll money. It can't be. No, but see for yourself, you hear? You take a look, Mr. Morley?

[Tonto]

Yeah.

[Hank Dorgan]

I reckon you were told to watch for paper money with a small red circle. In one corner.

[Tonto]

Yes. Yes, I was.

[Hank Dorgan]

You're looking at it.

[Randy Larkin]

I didn't see that mark when I had the bill.

[Hank Dorgan]

No one had noticed it if they weren't looking for it. How much more cash do you have, Lycan?

[Randy Larkin]

If you're hinting that I stole that.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'm not accusing you. Maybe it was stolen by the man who gave it to you. Where'd you get it? I got it from the.

[Randy Larkin]

I don't remember.

[Hank Dorgan]

So you don't remember. I suppose you get so many $20 bills, you can't remember where they come from.

[Randy Larkin]

No, I just can't remember one.

[Hank Dorgan]

Listen, if you didn't steal the payroll money, he'll tell where you got this cash. Unless you're trying to protect the thief.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, no. See here, Dorgan, I'm not even sure that's the same bill I gave you.

[Hank Dorgan]

You admit it as much. It's torn the same way.

[Tonto]

Randy, you'd better tell where you got that money.

[Randy Larkin]

No, I. I can't.

[Tonto]

Then you are shielding someone.

[Hank Dorgan]

No, I'm not.

[Randy Larkin]

I'm not shielding anyone. I just don't remember, that's all. I don't remember.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'll turn this over to the sheriff and tell him where I got it. I reckon he'll be wanting to ask you some questions.

[Randy Larkin]

All right, let him. Let him ask all the questions he wants to. I can't tell the sheriff anymore than I've told you. And if the sheriff wants me, he knows where to find me. I'll be at home.

[Narrator]

Word that one of the stolen bills had finally appeared spread fast through Badger City. Some people thought that Randy Larkin was the thief. Others thought he was shielding the thief because he was steadfast in his refusal to tell where he had gotten the twenty dollar bill. The Lone Ranger and Tonto had camped in the vicinity in town for supplies. The Indian heard the talk and reported to the masked man. The Lone Ranger nodded and replied.

[Tonto]

I'm sorry to hear that Larkin is dead.

[Peter Veeley]

Him good man.

[Tonto]

The Dorgan is still at large.

[Peter Veeley]

Him make most bad talk gainst young Randy. Him say maybe Randy steal money. Then him say, maybe father of Randy steal it.

[Tonto]

Has Randy been arrested?

[Peter Veeley]

No, but Sheriff talked plenty to him. Tried to make him tell where cash come from.

[Tonto]

Tanu, a year ago I thought Dorgan was a thief. I still think so.

[Peter Veeley]

Ah, him no good that time.

[Tonto]

I didn't know. The money had a red mark, so it might be identified.

[Peter Veeley]

Dorgan know about mark?

[Tonto]

He had the cash. He knew he couldn't spend it. May have decided to wait for the chance to use it to hurt the son of his enemy. There must be some way to prove that Dorgan is a thief. We must find that way.

[Narrator]

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

[Peter Veeley]

Sa.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger was determined to find some way to prove that Hank Dorgan had robbed a stagecoach and remove all suspicion from young Randy Larkin. Randy and his sister were at home. Soon after darkness gathered, the sheriff sat facing the two.

[Sheriff]

Randy, I want to let you know that I don't suspect you of stealing Veeley's payroll money.

[Kit Larkin]

Of course Randy didn't do it, Sheriff. He was with me in mud flats at the time of the robbery.

[Sheriff]

Kit, you're an honest young lady, but a lot of people in town figure you might fib to shield your brother. Others figure your brother is shielding the man who did steal the cash.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, Sheriff, I've told you a dozen times, I have nothing to say.

[Sheriff]

I've asked you a dozen times, Randy, where did you get that $20 bill?

[Kit Larkin]

Randy, why don't you tell him I'm not talking.

[Sheriff]

Well, you're a young fool, that's all I can say. Morley's willing to give you a job on the stage line, but he won't do it with everyone in town suspecting you of being a thief or shielding a thief.

[Randy Larkin]

I know it, Sheriff, and I'm mighty sorry. I'd like to have that job.

[Sheriff]

You've given me your final word, eh?

[Randy Larkin]

Yes.

[Sheriff]

All right, then, I may as well be going. I'm sorry your brother is so stubborn, Ms. Kid.

[Kit Larkin]

Sheriff, whatever Randy does is all right with me.

[Sheriff]

I'll say this. You Larkins are the most loyal family I ever knew. I'll bid you good night.

[Kit Larkin]

Good night, Sheriff.

[Randy Larkin]

Good night.

[Kit Larkin]

Oh, Randy, you'll never get a job in Badger City.

[Randy Larkin]

Well, that being the case, Kit, there's only one thing for us to do.

[Kit Larkin]

What?

[Randy Larkin]

We'll try to sell this house and move.

[Kit Larkin]

Randy, look. That mask man.

[Hank Dorgan]

Hey.

[Tonto]

Please don't be frightened.

[Kit Larkin]

Who are you?

[Randy Larkin]

How'd you get in this house?

[Tonto]

The back door was open, Randy. I took the liberty of walking in because your father was a good friend of mine.

[Randy Larkin]

But who are you?

[Kit Larkin]

You're masked.

[Tonto]

Several years ago, Randy, I gave your father a bullet. But just like this one. What was made of silver?

[Randy Larkin]

A silver bullet, Randy.

[Kit Larkin]

There was one in Dad's tin box.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, yes.

[Tonto]

Your father knew that this mask was not the sign of a crook.

[Randy Larkin]

Why, you're the Lone Ranger.

[Kit Larkin]

The Lone Ranger.

[Tonto]

Then your father spoke of me.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, yes, he did.

[Tonto]

I've heard of your trouble in connection with the $20 bill.

[Randy Larkin]

I guess everyone this side of the Mississippi's heard about it by this time.

[Tonto]

I came for further information. And, Randy, make up your mind to this. I plan to get what I came for. I want straight answers to a few questions. What?

[Randy Larkin]

What are they?

[Tonto]

I heard that you identified the $20 bill when Dorgan showed it to you.

[Randy Larkin]

I guess I did. The bill he showed me was torn just like the one I gave him.

[Tonto]

Did you see the red mark on.

[Randy Larkin]

It before I gave it to him? I didn't notice it. It was mighty small.

[Tonto]

Are you sure you saw it later?

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, yes. He showed it to me.

[Tonto]

Dorgan might have torn another bill so it would look like the one you gave him.

[Hank Dorgan]

I thought of that.

[Randy Larkin]

But what's the use of hoping anyone would believe a story like that? Well, why are you asking these questions?

[Tonto]

Do you have red ink in the house?

[Randy Larkin]

I guess so, yes.

[Kit Larkin]

There's some on Dad's desk right over there.

[Tonto]

Here, andy, is a $20 bill. Draw a circle in red ink just like the one you saw.

[Randy Larkin]

But why?

[Kit Larkin]

Sakes alive, Randy, do what the Lone Ranger says. If there was ever a time when we needed a friend, this is it. And according to dad, he's our friend.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the sheriff walked slowly toward his office. The lawman liked Randy and his sister Kit, and he had known their father well. In his heart, he couldn't believe that young Larkin had committed a crime. But the evidence against the boy was strong.

[Tonto]

Hey, sir.

[Sheriff]

Yes? What? Oh, it's you, Dorgan.

[Randy Larkin]

Yeah.

[Hank Dorgan]

Have you talked to young Larkin?

[Sheriff]

I just came from their house. I talked to both Randy and Kit.

[Hank Dorgan]

I suppose he's still lying.

[Sheriff]

Randy's innocent until he's proved guilty.

[Hank Dorgan]

Remember that you had your way and let the kid get away with the robbery. What good did it do ya? He'd just go on committing other crimes until he'd finally end up in the gallows. I tell you, Sheriff, Randy should be stopped now.

[Sheriff]

I'm not asking your opinion.

[Hank Dorgan]

There's plenty of folks in town who feel as I do, Sheriff. And they'll see that you do your duty.

[Sheriff]

What are you getting at?

[Hank Dorgan]

You'll have to take action whether you want to or not.

[Sheriff]

Dorgan, you run your cafe, and I'll run the sheriff's office.

[Hank Dorgan]

All right, Sheriff. But I'm warning you. If you let Larkin escape punishment, it'll cost you your job.

[Narrator]

Well satisfied with himself, Dorgan returned To his cafe. The room was crowded with townsmen who were discussing Randy Larkin and the Veli robbery. Dorgan mingled with the customers and took part in their discussions.

[Peter Veeley]

Dorgan is mighty lucky. You happen to notice the marking on.

[Tonto]

The bill Randy gave him.

[Hank Dorgan]

Well, gents, there's some folks call me over cautious, but ever since the sheriff told me to be on the lookout for that cash, I've made it a point to examine every bill.

[Peter Veeley]

Hey, you were just doing your duty.

[Hank Dorgan]

I don't like to take credit. And I feel mighty bad about it, too, After I realized that it made things look bad for Randy.

[Peter Veeley]

I say he's sheiling somewhere.

[Hank Dorgan]

Well, he won't get away with it, gents. We'll see to it that he pays for his crime.

[Narrator]

Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger had hurried to the camp near town, where Tonto waited.

[Tonto]

Ho, Silver. Ho. Easy, big fellow, easy.

[Peter Veeley]

See, young feller?

[Hank Dorgan]

Kimasabi.

[Tonto]

Yes, Tonto and I have what I wanted. A marked bill. Now, I want to borrow some of your clothing.

[Peter Veeley]

Oh, you fixed up like Indian, huh?

[Tonto]

Yes. Get some buckskins from your saddlebag while I darken my complexion.

[Narrator]

Working by light from the campfire, the Lone Ranger removed his mask and used stain made from the bark of trees to darken his skin. Then, while he changed into some of Toto's clothing, he outlined his plan.

[Tonto]

And while I'm calling on Hank Dorgan at the cafe, I want you to speak to John Morley. I'm sure that when he hears a plan, he'll get the sheriff to help us at the showdown.

[Narrator]

It was after midnight. There were only a few people left in Dorgan's cafe when the Lone Ranger entered, looking like a stalwart Indian.

[Tonto]

You thank Dorgan.

[Hank Dorgan]

That's my name.

[Tonto]

Me hear plenty talk about you.

[Hank Dorgan]

It looks like you didn't hear about the rules of this cafe. Now vamoose.

[Tonto]

No, me not go. Me talk business. Buy plenty firewater.

[Hank Dorgan]

I don't do business with Indians. There's a law against it.

[Tonto]

Law never bother you in Grantville, Indian.

[Hank Dorgan]

I said clear out.

[Tonto]

Me got plenty money.

[Hank Dorgan]

I said I wasn't interested.

[Tonto]

Here, me show you.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger drew from his pocket what appeared to be a thick roll of paper money. Dworkin saw a $20 bill on the top, and he stared more closely. His sharp eyes perceived a small red circle in one corner. He found it hard to maintain his composure.

[Hank Dorgan]

Well, that's a lot of cash, redskin.

[Tonto]

Me tell you, me got plenty money.

[Hank Dorgan]

Where? Where'd you get it?

[Tonto]

We do business first, then you ask questions.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'D be willing to bet you stole it.

[Tonto]

Oh, what that matter, huh?

[Hank Dorgan]

For the cash. Away engine. Don't let anyone around here see you with that much money.

[Tonto]

It's not all the money. Now we do business, huh?

[Hank Dorgan]

Listen, I don't mind where you got the money, Even if you stole it. It's all right with me. But I'm just curious. I didn't know anyone in these parts carried that much cash.

[Tonto]

No one carries this money.

[Hank Dorgan]

Ah, then you must have broke into someone's house, is that it?

[Tonto]

Oh, me not break in.

[Hank Dorgan]

The door was open, huh?

[Tonto]

Too much talk. Me here on business, listening.

[Hank Dorgan]

I can't do business here. I'll meet you somewhere else.

[Tonto]

Oh, where you meet?

[Hank Dorgan]

There's a big rock east of town. It's right near the stage trail. You know what I mean?

[Tonto]

Oh, me? No.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'll meet you there.

[Tonto]

Oh, how soon you meet.

[Hank Dorgan]

Well, let's make it one hour from now.

[Tonto]

Oh, that good. Me look for you. You not be late.

[Hank Dorgan]

You'll be seeing me Indian. You sure will be seeing Baldy. I'm leaving for the night.

[Peter Veeley]

All right, boss. What the redskin want?

[Hank Dorgan]

It's none of your business.

[Tonto]

No offense, boss.

[Peter Veeley]

I just wonder. That was all.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'll see you tomorrow. Don't forget to lock up.

[Narrator]

Gorgon left the cafe and hurried to his home at the edge of town. An old man who lived with him and attended to the chores. Was dozing on a sofa in the living room. He was roused by the sudden slamming of the door.

[Peter Veeley]

What the. Sam.

[Hank Dorgan]

Wendy.

[Tonto]

Get up.

[Peter Veeley]

Yeah, sure thing, boss. I'm up. What's wrong? Is the place fire?

[Hank Dorgan]

Did you leave this house while I was at the cafe?

[Peter Veeley]

No, sir. E. Boss, you told me to never leave it while you were away. I wouldn't go get your orders.

[Hank Dorgan]

And you been sleeping well?

[Peter Veeley]

Not deep. I only dozed a little. No harm in that, is there?

[Hank Dorgan]

You slept with the door unlocked.

[Peter Veeley]

Boss, I sure wish you'd tell me what in tarnation's wrong.

[Hank Dorgan]

I'll show you what's wrong. Here, give me a hand with this trunk.

[Peter Veeley]

Sure thing.

[Hank Dorgan]

Grab a hold of it and tip it upside down.

[Peter Veeley]

All those extra clothes will spare.

[Hank Dorgan]

That's what I want. Do as I say. If the cash is gone, we're going out to kill an Indian.

[Peter Veeley]

All right, then. Here goes.

[Narrator]

In the darkness behind Dorgan's house. The Lone Ranger used a bandana to wipe away the stain from his hands and face. Then he pulled off the buckskin shirt and placed it in a saddlebag. It took but A moment to pull on his own shirt and don the gun belt and hat that had been hanging from his saddle. Last of all, he placed his mask across his eyes. Meanwhile, Dorgan had pulled up a false bottom in the trunk.

[Peter Veeley]

If you're worried about that cash, boss, it's all there.

[Hank Dorgan]

Yeah. Yeah, sure, I see it is.

[Peter Veeley]

Makes me near sick to die when I think of all that money that we can't spend.

[Hank Dorgan]

I wonder if he could. I thought that Indian had it.

[Peter Veeley]

Boss, you feeling all right?

[Hank Dorgan]

Hey, what the.

[Peter Veeley]

The window.

[Hank Dorgan]

Hold it, both of you.

[Randy Larkin]

Mask.

[Peter Veeley]

Boss, he's holding the gun.

[Hank Dorgan]

Come in, Sheriff. Now, what does this mean?

[Sheriff]

It means you're th.

[Narrator]

Turned from the masked man at the window and saw the sheriff followed by Morley, Jeb Veeley and Randy Larkin. He was gripped by panic when he realized that the contents of the trunk would convict him of the stagecoach robbery.

[Sheriff]

Look at the cash in that trunk.

[Peter Veeley]

Yeah, Let me look at it.

[Tonto]

See if it's yours, Billy. I'm sure of it.

[Peter Veeley]

I'll know as soon as I see. Couple of the bills. It is mine. Wasps. They got you.

[Sheriff]

And you, too, you lying old goat. You swore to a false alibi for Dorgan.

[Hank Dorgan]

It was a trick. I was framed. That Indian showed me a bill.

[Sheriff]

Dorgan, tell us all about it.

[Hank Dorgan]

I won't be taken alive. You'll have to shoot it out.

[Peter Veeley]

Oh, my arm.

[Hank Dorgan]

My arm is busted.

[Tonto]

Still feel like shooting it out. Dorgan, you should have known better than.

[Sheriff]

To go for a gun while that masked man was at the window.

[Hank Dorgan]

Listen, let me talk. He framed me. He did it. That masked man put the cash in my chest.

[Sheriff]

Tell that to the jury. Meanwhile, give me that good arm. I'll decorate it with these handcuffs.

[Hank Dorgan]

She's easy, Wendy.

[Sheriff]

Give me your arm. I'll hook you to the man you lied to.

[Hank Dorgan]

Help dad.

[Peter Veeley]

Read it, boss. I knew our luck had turned sour soon as I heard we couldn't spend that cash.

[Tonto]

Randy, have you anything to tell the sheriff?

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, yes. Yes, I have, Sheriff. I didn't want to defy the law, but I didn't know what else to do. The $20 bill I gave Dorgan came from my dad's cash box. I didn't know whether it was marked or not. I thought Dorgan might have switched it, but. Well, there was no way to prove it.

[Sheriff]

Randy, I'm satisfied that Dorgan carried some of that marked money just waiting to frame you. And you wouldn't talk because you figured folks would think your dad had stolen that money.

[Randy Larkin]

I didn't want anyone to think that dad wasn't alive to defend himself or tell his side of it.

[Tonto]

Randy, you wanted a job with me. Well, you may have it. All I ask is that you be half as loyal to me as you've been to your father.

[Randy Larkin]

Oh, golly, golly. Thanks, Mr. Morley.

[Sheriff]

Son, you should never have had a minute's doubt about your dad. If he hadn't been every inch a good man, he wouldn't have had a friend like the Lone Ranger.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Enterprises and directed by Fred Flower Day. Tonight's drama was written by Fran Stryker. The part of the Lone Ranger is.

[Hank Dorgan]

Played by Brace Beamed 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 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.

[Tonto]

SA.