The Sheriff of Gunstock | The Lone Ranger (10-19-49)

Summary

Podcast Summary: Old Time Radio Westerns – "The Sheriff of Gunstock" (The Lone Ranger, 10-19-49)

Introduction

In this episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rines brings listeners back to the golden age of radio with "The Sheriff of Gunstock," a classic The Lone Ranger episode originally aired on October 19, 1949. This digitally restored rendition offers enhanced audio quality, immersing the audience in the suspenseful and action-packed narrative of the Wild West. The story centers around the struggle for law and order in the town of Gunstock, highlighting the Lone Ranger's unwavering commitment to justice.

Plot Overview

The Sheriff of Gunstock unfolds in the once-peaceful town of Gunstock, which falls under the oppressive control of Rocky Hanford and his gang. Hanford moves into the Gunstock Hotel, bringing with him a group of unscrupulous men who begin extorting local businesses for weekly tributes. As Gunstock succumbs to Hanford's tyranny, resistance emerges in the form of the Lone Ranger, whose mission is to dismantle the corrupt hold Hanford has on the town.

Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger: The masked vigilante dedicated to upholding justice and protecting the innocent.
• Rocky Hanford: The antagonist who seeks to dominate Gunstock through intimidation and extortion.
• Mrs. Miggs: Owner of a local restaurant who becomes a pivotal figure in resisting Hanford's extortion.
• Sheriff Barrow: The town sheriff whose loyalty is tested as his own family becomes a target of Hanford.
• Toto: The Lone Ranger's faithful horse, Silver, and his trusted companion.
• Jack Barrow: Sheriff Barrow's 19-year-old son, whose capture by Hanford's gang intensifies the conflict.

Detailed Summary

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and Silver making a grand entrance into Gunstock, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict. The peace of the town is shattered when Rocky Hanford arrives, quickly establishing his dominance by destroying local businesses and demanding weekly tributes (04:16).

Mrs. Miggs, the resilient owner of a restaurant, confronts Hanford's representative, Duke, refusing to comply with the extortionate demands. This confrontation escalates when Hanford himself vows to demolish her establishment if she continues to defy him (05:57-06:38). Despite initial suppression, resistance within the town begins to simmer as Hanford tightens his grip.

Sheriff Barrow, initially complacent, becomes a reluctant ally when his son, Jack, is captured by Hanford's gang (14:03). The Lone Ranger, determined to rescue Jack and restore order, confronts Barrow, urging him to seek help from the Texas Rangers (12:24-12:43). As tensions rise, Mrs. Miggs reveals the gravity of the situation, pressing the Lone Ranger to act before her son is harmed (14:01).

In a pivotal scene, the Lone Ranger devises a plan to send a message to Hanford by disguising himself and manipulating events to lead Hanford into a trap (18:43-20:10). The strategy involves creating a false lead about a message from "Monk," a possible insider within Hanford's ranks, to lure the antagonist into revealing his location.

The climax unfolds at Hanford's shack, where a fierce gunfight erupts between the Lone Ranger, Jack Barrow, and Hanford's men (22:07-26:35). Despite being outnumbered, the Lone Ranger and his allies hold their ground until reinforcements arrive. Toto and a group of enraged townsmen charge in, tipping the scales in favor of justice and leading to Hanford's capture (27:50-28:18).

In the denouement, it is revealed that the Lone Ranger was instrumental in freeing Gunstock from Hanford's clutches, restoring peace and order to the town (29:20-30:19). The episode concludes with the revelation that the Lone Ranger himself was once Sheriff Barrow's son, Jack, adding a poignant layer to the narrative (30:10-30:21).

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger (04:16): "Protector of the peace in the early western United States."

• Mrs. Miggs (06:03): "You shouldn't have slapped me, Mrs. Miggs. You shouldn't have done that."

• Lone Ranger (14:03): "Any man had told me you'd sell out to Hanford, I'd have called him a liar."

• Mrs. Miggs (14:01): "If there's any move against Rocky Hanford, my son will be killed."

• Lone Ranger (22:07): "We can make a deal."

• Rocky Hanford (26:14): "We can make a deal."

• Mrs. Miggs (30:19): "He's the Lone Ranger."

• Lone Ranger (30:19): "I was too."

Themes and Insights

The Sheriff of Gunstock delves into themes of corruption, courage, and the fight for justice. Rocky Hanford represents the archetypal villain whose greed and lust for power threaten the fabric of a community. In contrast, the Lone Ranger embodies the ideals of integrity and bravery, inspiring those around him to stand up against tyranny.

The episode also explores personal sacrifice and the burdens of leadership. Sheriff Barrow's internal conflict between upholding the law and protecting his family highlights the complexities faced by those in positions of authority. Mrs. Miggs' unwavering resistance serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression.

Conclusion

"The Sheriff of Gunstock" is a quintessential episode of The Lone Ranger, blending suspense, action, and moral dilemmas to create a compelling narrative. Through its rich storytelling and memorable characters, the episode underscores the timeless struggle between good and evil, making it a standout installment in the Old Time Radio Westerns collection. Andrew Rines' meticulous digital restoration ensures that this classic tale of the Wild West is experienced with enhanced clarity and depth, allowing both longtime fans and new listeners to appreciate its enduring legacy.

Transcript

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't twinkling. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot CVS and more through Instacart and enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

[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 hi O Silver the Lone Ranger.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't Twink. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot CVS and more through Instacart and enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

[Narrator]

With his faithful Indian companion, Totto, 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.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver. Let's go big fellow. I am Silver. Silver.

[Narrator]

The town of Gunstock had been a thriving and peaceful community until Rocky Hanford moved in and took rooms in the Gunstock Hotel. Soon after his arrival, with a number of cold eyed helpers, things began to happen. First, an explosion wrecked the blacksmith shop. The next day, Mrs. Meigs was scrubbing the floor of her little restaurant. It was mid morning. The door opened to admit a thin, shifty eyed man in well tailored clothes.

[Lone Ranger]

Dinner won't be ready for you. Just call me Duke, ma'am. Call me Duke. I dropped in to see if you'd considered Mr. Hanford's proposition.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Now see here, mister, just who is this Hanford gent, what sort of game is he playing?

[Lone Ranger]

I explained it yesterday, Mrs. Miggs. Mr. Hanford. Protect you against loss in case your restaurant burns down or cowboys smash the window.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Let me get it straight.

[Lone Ranger]

You want me to sign up an.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Agreement to pay Rocky Hanford money every week so's nothing will happen to my restaurant?

[Lone Ranger]

You never know what'll happen, Mrs. Miggs. A carelessly thrown match might start a fire. Bunch of cowboys might come in, start a gunfight, break things up. Someone might toss a can of blasting powder with a lighted fuse attached through your big front window.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I get it. It's just the sort of game I thought it was.

[Lone Ranger]

Now here's the contrary.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Here's what I think of your agreement, you sneakin crooked. And here's what I think of you.

[Lone Ranger]

You shouldn't have slapped me, Mrs. Miggs. You shouldn't have done that.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Just take that slap back to the hotel and to Hanford. Tell him I'm not paying tribute to a crook.

[Rocky Hanford]

Well, I must say, Mrs. Miggs has spunk. I admire a woman like that. I'm sorry she has the wrong attitude, Hanford.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I'd like to go back there and.

[Lone Ranger]

Tear her place to pieces.

[Rocky Hanford]

Why bother? A couple of pounds of blasting powder will do the job.

[Lone Ranger]

How about it, boss?

[Rocky Hanford]

Get it ready, Grizzly. We'll take care of Mig's restaurant tonight. After that, I don't think we'll have any trouble persuading the rest of the people in town to do business with the Hanford Company.

[Narrator]

That night the restaurant was destroyed. Two days later, another place was blown apart by blasting powder. After that, Gunstock was quiet. But every store, cafe and office on both sides of the street paid weekly tribute to Rocky Hanford. Cappy Jackson, owner of the largest cafe, paid heavier than all the others. Hanford himself came in each week to make the collection. When he came for the fourth time, it was late at night. The customers were gone. Cappy was cleaning glassware and the bent over man with a heavy beard was sweeping the floor.

[Rocky Hanford]

What's the matter, Cappy? Why do you look at me that way?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Do you expect me to be glad to see you? Hanford?

[Rocky Hanford]

How's business?

[Lone Ranger]

All right.

[Rocky Hanford]

That's good. That's fine. Glad to hear it. Hope you haven't had any trouble.

[Mrs. Miggs]

No trouble.

[Rocky Hanford]

You know, I knew a man over in Washoe at a big cafe like this. A lot of fine glassware, high priced paintings on the wall. Poor fellow. Ten men came into his place one night and started to row. Most awful fight I ever heard. Of they smashed everything. Tables, chairs, glasses. Big mirror like that one on the wall. Paintings were just riddled with bullets.

[Mrs. Miggs]

What's that got to do with me? Hanford? I'm paying you every week. I'm paying your price.

[Rocky Hanford]

I understand you were complaining about my prices. You thought they were a little high.

[Mrs. Miggs]

No, sir.

[Rocky Hanford]

I'd hate to feel you were dissatisfied.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Cappy, I've got your money right here. There, Hanford. Gold eagles.

[Rocky Hanford]

Oh, I'm sorry, Cappy. I should have told you last week.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Told me what?

[Rocky Hanford]

The price has gone up.

[Mrs. Miggs]

You mean you want more money out of me?

[Rocky Hanford]

Well, it's not my fault, Cappy. You see, I've increased my staff. I have 10 men in town now.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I heard that more cow pokes had moved into the hotel.

[Rocky Hanford]

Cow pokes?

[Lone Ranger]

Cappy, they're protectors of the peace.

[Mrs. Miggs]

My eye. They're wreckers, that's what they are. You said it was 10 men that wrecked that cafe in Washoe.

[Rocky Hanford]

Curious coincidence, huh?

[Mrs. Miggs]

10 men will tear my place apart if I don't pay tribute to you.

[Rocky Hanford]

$50 more, Cappy.

[Mrs. Miggs]

It's robbery, that's what it is.

[Rocky Hanford]

$50, Jackson. I took. Get away from here, you.

[Lone Ranger]

Only trying to sweep the floor, sir.

[Rocky Hanford]

Get away, I tell you.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Hanford, what's the idea of pushing an old man off his feet?

[Rocky Hanford]

Serves him right for snooping around. Trying to hear what I'm saying. All right, get up, you. You're not hurt?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, sir. Who is?

[Rocky Hanford]

The old glute. Where'd he come from?

[Mrs. Miggs]

I don't know. He drifted into town a week ago, come here and ask for a job. So I'm working for three squares a day and a bunk in the back room.

[Rocky Hanford]

Well, send him out. I don't like witnesses to my transaction. I said send him out.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Hey there, old timer. You go out and take a walk, get some fresh air and finish sweeping in the morning.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, Sir.

[Rocky Hanford]

This extra $50 is because of some things you said around town.

[Lone Ranger]

Cabbie.

[Narrator]

The stooped over man shuffled out of the cafe and turned to the right. As he made his way along the wooden sidewalk through the dark and deserted street, his stride became longer and faster and more purposeful. Years seemed to fall away and he gained inches in height as he straightened his shoulders. His hands were busy. While he walked, he removed the whiskers, which were false, and then the battered old black hat and the gray haired wig beneath it. He drew a bandana from his hip pocket and wiped away the makeup on his face. By that time he had reached the end of the walk. The end of town. He turned sharply to the right and a moment later joined an Indian who was waiting with two horses in a clump of trees.

[Lone Ranger]

Here, Tunnel. Take these things and put them into the saddlebag. Here's the vest. I'll have the shirt for you in just a minute. Be here every night for week. I didn't know how long I'd have to stay in that cafe to get the information I was after.

[Rocky Hanford]

You get it?

[Lone Ranger]

It's just few minutes ago it'd be good to get back into my own clothes.

[Narrator]

No one who had seen the swamper in the cafe would have suspected that he was a strong, broad shouldered man. A man who was known throughout the west as the Lone Ranger.

[Lone Ranger]

Not my gun belt. Yeah. You get proof that everyone in town pay cash to Hanford. I know that Cappy Jackson is paying cash to Hanford. Now I'm going to call on the sheriff and see what he has to say. Here, hat. No thanks. You wait right here, Toto. I'll be back as soon as possible. Now for the mask. Get ready.

[Narrator]

The tall man fitted a mask across the upper part of his face and prepared to mount the great white stallion, the horse that was almost as well known as the Lone Ranger. Sheriff Barrow wakened after several hours of slumber.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Carnation's still dark out. Wonder what awakened me.

[Lone Ranger]

I did. Huh?

[Mrs. Miggs]

What the. Who's in my room? Who is it? Speak up.

[Lone Ranger]

Take it easy, Barrow. While you're getting wide awake, I'll light this candle so you can see me.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Of all the cussed nerve. Come walking right into my house. And right into my room. By thunder. There better be a good reason for it or I'll throw you into the calaboose.

[Lone Ranger]

What the. Yes, Barrow, I'm wearing a mask. Don't bother reaching. I took the gun from beneath your pillow.

[Mrs. Miggs]

What do you want?

[Lone Ranger]

I've just seen Rocky Hanford making a collection from Cappy Jackson.

[Mrs. Miggs]

What about it?

[Lone Ranger]

I heard rumors that everyone in town was paying tribute to Hanford's gang. But I wanted to make sure it was true. I've made sure. What are you going to do about it?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Me?

[Lone Ranger]

Hanford has 10 men in town. Is that too many for you to handle?

[Mrs. Miggs]

I'll take care of my business, you take care of yours.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, you can't let Hanford dominate every businessman in town. If the situation is too much for you to handle, let the Texas Rangers move in.

[Mrs. Miggs]

The Rangers can't come here without a written request from me. That's the law.

[Lone Ranger]

Here's a pencil and Paper. You'll write a letter requesting the Rangers. I'll see that it's delivered.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Now listen here, mister. I don't know who you are, but I can make a guess that Hanford sent you.

[Lone Ranger]

Hanford didn't send me, Barrow. I'll identify myself as far as possible. Here, look at this. Silver bullet. I'm called the Lone Ranger.

[Mrs. Miggs]

The Lone Ranger. Well, maybe you are and maybe you're not. Hanford's a sly one. It'd be like him to send someone here to test me.

[Lone Ranger]

Test you? Well, that's the situation. Get up, Barrow. Hey, wait.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Let go.

[Lone Ranger]

Get dressed. You're going with me.

[Mrs. Miggs]

But I tell you, I've been a.

[Lone Ranger]

Good sheriff for 10 years. Any man had told me you'd sell out to Hanford, I'd have called him a liar.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I didn't sell out.

[Lone Ranger]

Then you'll either clean up this town or call in the Rangers to do it for you.

[Mrs. Miggs]

But why are you dressed?

[Lone Ranger]

I'm taking you to my camp. After I persuaded you to write for the Rangers. I'll hold you there until they've cleaned up gun stock.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I can't send for the Rangers. I can't do it and you can't make me do it. I'll die before I send for them.

[Lone Ranger]

You really mean that, don't you, Sheriff?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Yes, I do.

[Lone Ranger]

Then it can't be fear of death that keeps you on Hanford's side. And it can't be money. Barrow, you have a 19 year old son. Where is he?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Please. Please go away.

[Lone Ranger]

Let me be. Sit down. Sit down, Barrow. I'm sorry I handled you so roughly. A man will go a long way when the life of his son is at stake. Do you know where Hanford is holding the boy?

[Mrs. Miggs]

I've got nothing to say.

[Lone Ranger]

Have you had any message from your son?

[Mrs. Miggs]

I said I wasn't talking.

[Lone Ranger]

Like to play on your side, Sheriff, but you won't let me.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Look, mister, I'm satisfied that Hanford didn't send you. You don't talk like one of his breed. You talk like a man. I. There's nothing can be done.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, there is, Sheriff. And I'll have to do it. I'll have to take you to my camp and hold you there.

[Mrs. Miggs]

But I told you I'd die before I write for Rangers.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll write for them. They'll have the Hanford gang in jail before they learn that you didn't sign the letter. No.

[Mrs. Miggs]

No, you can't do that. If the Rangers come here, my boy will be so.

[Lone Ranger]

So it Is your son?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Yes. They captured him. Part of the gang is holding him a prisoner somewhere.

[Lone Ranger]

What would you do if you knew he was safe?

[Mrs. Miggs]

What would I do? I'd have the Texas Rangers in here before he could say Jack Robinson. Is he safe? Is he? Mister, do you know anything about my boy?

[Lone Ranger]

No.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Oh, I thought maybe.

[Lone Ranger]

Trust me. Trust me all the way. Barrow, tell me what you know. When did you last hear from your son?

[Mrs. Miggs]

I'll tell you all I know. I'll show you a letter I got. But it won't help. Nothing can be done. If there's any move against Rocky Hanford, my son will be killed.

[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.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't. Twink. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot, CVS and more through Instacart. And enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart. With Instacart's family carts, everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus, enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and terms apply.

[Lone Ranger]

Cuando compras unquit de baterillas.

[Narrator]

Now, to continue our story. After talking to Sheriff Barrow, the Lone Ranger returned to the woods near town where Toto had waited in the darkness. He told how Rocky Hanford had tied the Sheriff's.

[Lone Ranger]

You see, the Sheriff has a 19 year old son who was working in Scottsville. Jack was captured by the Hanford gang. He's being held prisoner. Oh, him hostage? Yes, that's it. Todo. Here's a letter that Sheriff Barrow received. I'll strike a match so you can read it. Jack Barrow signed the letter, but it was written by someone else. Crooks make Jack sign letter to prove him prisoner. Study the signature. Tonneau. That's our clue. The letter tells that Jack is being held and will be released unharmed in due time if Hanford is not molested. You say their clue in signature. Read that signature only to say your son, John Monk Barrow. Yes, John Monk Barrow. But his name is not Monk. His father couldn't imagine why he put that in. I think Jack was trying to give his father a clue. One of the men who was holding him must be called Monk. That's not much of a clue. That's all we have. We'll have to make the most of it. We can find Jack Barrow. The sheriff will call for rangers to come here and wipe out the Hanford gang. How we find them? I have a plan. It may be no good, but it's worth trying. Get your blanket. Pull it around your shoulders and walk into town like a wandering Indian. Go to the hotel and speak to the clerk. Tell him you have a message for Rocky Hay.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Who's there?

[Rocky Hanford]

It's the night clerk. I have a message for Mr. Hanford.

[Lone Ranger]

Let's have the message. It's verbal. An Indian, a vagrant Indian, came into the lobby. He said he had a message from Mr. Hanford. Monk wants to see you right away. What's that? That's the message, Mr. Hanford. The Indian said that Monk wanted to see you right away. He didn't explain who Monk was.

[Rocky Hanford]

Where is the Indian?

[Lone Ranger]

I sent him away, sir. I didn't want him hanging around. You should have brought him here. But I.

[Rocky Hanford]

Never mind. Get out.

[Lone Ranger]

What do you make of that, Hanford? You think something's wrong?

[Mrs. Miggs]

The shack?

[Rocky Hanford]

I don't know. Remember how Jack signed his name to the message for the sheriff?

[Lone Ranger]

He signed it John Monk Barrow.

[Rocky Hanford]

He said that was his full name. He wanted the sheriff to know that the signature was his own and not fors. It might have been coincidence that Monk Mason was in our outfit. On the other hand, Jack might have been trying to give his father a tip off and let him know that.

[Lone Ranger]

One of the gang was called Monk.

[Rocky Hanford]

Duke, you and Jake go out and look for that Indian. If you find him, bring him here. If you don't find him, come back anyway. I'm going to see Monk. I'll ride alone, but I want the boys to follow far enough in back of me to be out of sight in case I'm watched.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto were concealed in a dark Alley. They saw two of Hanford's men come out and look around, then return to the hotel across the street. A few minutes later, they saw Rocky Hanford appear. Go to the saddle shed and come out mounted.

[Lone Ranger]

Hello. I think Hanford has taken the bait. We follow him. Yes, we'll follow. Hope he leads us to Jack Barrow.

[Narrator]

The masked man and the Indian kept well in back of Hanford on a winding trail from town without suspecting that they too were followed in the dim moonlight by ten of Hanford's men. Presently they saw Hanford reign in at a shack some distance ahead.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. Stay with the horses and draw back among the trees.

[Narrator]

Rocky Hanford rapped three times on the door of the shack.

[Lone Ranger]

Mr. Hanford. Gosh, boss.

[Rocky Hanford]

Hello, Monk.

[Lone Ranger]

Hi, Mr. Hanford. Butch.

[Rocky Hanford]

How's the prisoner? There he is. An Indian came into the hotel, left woods. You wanted to see me?

[Lone Ranger]

Why? Don't savvy that, boss. We haven't sent word to anybody. Hey. Hey. What the. You're covered.

[Rocky Hanford]

He's mask.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll get him.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Go.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll get him, boss.

[Narrator]

At the Lone Ranger fire to disarmed Monk, who was in the act of drawing a gun. The other guard closed in and clutched the masked man. Then Hanford leaped into the fight. While the Lone Ranger struggled with Hanford and the guard, Monk stood back, hugging his injured hand and shouting with pain. His gun had fallen to the floor near the bunk where Jack Barrow sat. Despite the fact that his hands were tied at the wrist, the sheriff's son was able to pick up the heavy weapon and fire a warning shot.

[Lone Ranger]

Break it out.

[Mrs. Miggs]

These guys.

[Lone Ranger]

My guns. Stand clear, Hanford. I'll let you have it through the head. Good work, Jack. I don't know who you are. Why, you may. But you seem to be on my side. I'll take over now. You two stand over there against the wall with Monk and keep your hands up.

[Rocky Hanford]

All right, mister, why are you.

[Lone Ranger]

I have a knife here, Jack. Stick your hands out. I'll cut that rope. You three watch yourselves. They'll make a fast move. There you are, Jack. Thanks. Take the knife and cut the rope around your feet. Then you can cover these three while I fit some ropes to their hands.

[Narrator]

For a moment, the Lone Ranger was in command of the situation. He couldn't understand the half smart of confidence on Rocky Hanford's face. He didn't know that 10 of Hanford's men had heard the shots from far away and had spurred their horses forward to close in on the cabin. Tuttle concealed in the Trees nearby with Scout and Silver saw the gang ride by. There was nothing he could do to stop them or to warn his masked friend. In the cap. Jack was free and holding a gun. The Lone Ranger had tied the hands and feet of two of the three men then turned to Monk, who was sobbing.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Don't.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't tie me, mister. Don't do it.

[Mrs. Miggs]

My hand's busted. I can't stand the vein.

[Lone Ranger]

Jack, keep him covered. I hear some horses coming.

[Rocky Hanford]

Those are my men, mister. You're through. You see, I suspected a trap of this sort.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger hurriedly moved to the open door and looked out.

[Lone Ranger]

Can you see who they are? Yes, Jack. There's nearly a dozen out there. There are Hanford. Help. Help, boys. Help me. That's Hanford. It's a boss.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger slammed and bolted the door but not before Duke and Grizzly and the rest of Hanford's men had seen their leader backed against the wall with his hands tied while Jack Barrow held a gun.

[Lone Ranger]

The boss was tied. Hanford is Captain. I saw Jack Barrow. He was free. He was holding a gun. There was a masked man in there. Now, wait a minute, boys. Listen to me. If the sheriff's boy gets free, we'll all go to jail. We gotta get Hanford out of there. What about Monk and thieves? Yeah, they don't count. It's a boss we gotta get. Give me that rock at your feet, Grizzly. I'll heave it through the window and talk to that masked man and Jack Barrett here. You can't see through the window. There's a blanket over us.

[Mrs. Miggs]

I can yell through it.

[Lone Ranger]

You walk anywhere that way. Open that door. Let us come in. We want to talk to you. Too late for talking. I'm turning your boss over to the law. You'll never get out of that cabin alive. I'll take that stand. We're coming to get you. Come along. Open fire, boys. Pour lead through those windows. But we might hit Handful enemy. Here's tough luck. We warned the sheriff what would happen if there was any move against us. We're going to keep our word. Open fire.

[Narrator]

After the opening volley of gunfire the Lone Rangers tied Monk's hands despite his protests then put out the lantern and jerked the blankets from the windows. Then, in the darkness, he and Jack took stands on opposite sides of the room to return the fire of the outlaws who had spread out to surround the shack.

[Rocky Hanford]

Why don't you give up, mister? You can't win. My man will get you sooner or later.

[Lone Ranger]

Better keep Close to the floor, Hanford, or one of those bullets will get you. This gun's empty. What about Hanford's? I've emptied that one, too. I'm just about out of ammunition. All I have left is a gun I got from Pee Wee. Make the shots count. Hey, I got another one of those crooks.

[Rocky Hanford]

You can't get them all. Why don't you give up? Shout out that window. Let them know you'll surrender.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, how? Like this. I don't know who you are, mister, but there's no call for you to die fighting my fight. Look out the rear window. See if any of them are closing in from that direction. What'll we do when the bullets are gone? Then it's going to be hand to hand. I see a couple of them hanging all they duck behind rocks.

[Rocky Hanford]

You two haven't got a chance. Listen to me. We can make a deal.

[Narrator]

The fight continued, but both the Lone Ranger and Jack Barrow became more sparing with their bullets. Hanford's men took advantage of every rock and rise of ground to get to the cabin without exposing themselves. They were moving in slowly but relentlessly on all sides until finally Jack announced his last shot had been fired. This brought a laugh from Hanford.

[Rocky Hanford]

Well, the time for that hand to hand fighting is getting mighty close, mister. That I want to see. You against my whole gang.

[Lone Ranger]

You might see more than that, Hanford. Hey, I hear hooves. Someone else is coming. That's what I counted on. I thought we'd hear from Toddles sooner or later. There's more gunfire. What's going on out there? Who's coming? I don't know who it is, Jack, but I'm sure it's help for us. Sounded like an Indian. It's Toto. Did you hear that, Jack? Well, then, that's my dad.

[Narrator]

Toto and the Sheriff rolled in accompanied by a score or more of angry townsmen. It was the chance those men in town had been waiting for. The chance to square things with Rocky Hanford and his gang of extortionists.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Get that critter on the right. Don't let any of them get away. Will you show those polecats who runs gunstock? Sheriff, behind you.

[Lone Ranger]

He got them.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Lego.

[Lone Ranger]

Lego.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Good work, Tano. You cooks better surrender. Throw down your guns. You're surrounded.

[Narrator]

The fight was short and sharp. The outlaws, outnumbered and surrounded, were quick to surrender.

[Lone Ranger]

Golly. The fight's all over. I'll open the door. Jack, you light the lamp. I put it down here out of the line of fire. I'll get It. Hello, sir. Barrel. BC Gang close in. We know you need plenty. Help me go to town. Get Sheriff. Thanks, T. Thank goodness you're still alive.

[Mrs. Miggs]

But Tono brought word that you were trapped here. I rounded up men as fast as I could.

[Lone Ranger]

Jack.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Jack, my boy.

[Lone Ranger]

Dad. Golly, I'm glad to see you. Hanford and two of his men are tied over there. Sheriff, they're ready for you. I think you'll find that Hanford has cash enough to return all he's collected and pay for most of the damage his gang has done.

[Mrs. Miggs]

The townsmen have the rest of the gang. I guess this makes the roundup complete.

[Lone Ranger]

It's over with you todo. Ah, him outside. Come on, then. We'll shove on. We've got to get to the silver mine and get more bullets. Sheriff, we'll meet again. Adios.

[Mrs. Miggs]

Thanks, mister. Thanks for everything. Golly, dad, that mask man, that masked man is the only gent in all the world that I. Yeah? Oh, well, never mind.

[Lone Ranger]

What were you going to say, dad?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Well, son, I had to knuckle down to Hanford's game because they were holding you as hostage. But when I heard that the masked man had been captured, I just had a move. I had to do it, even if it meant your life. Catto, the Indian, he didn't tell me you were here. He just said the masked man was trapped. Oh, gosh, boy, I'm glad to see you.

[Lone Ranger]

Oh, but dad, that masked man, if he's so important, who is he? Who is he?

[Mrs. Miggs]

Son, he's the man who found you. The man who trapped the Hanford gang. The man who cleaned up the town of Gunstock. He's the Lone Ranger.

[Lone Ranger]

I was too.

[Mrs. Miggs]

O.

[Instacart Advertiser]

Why get all your holiday decorations delivered through Instacart? Because maybe you only bought two wreaths, but you have 12 windows. Or maybe your toddler got very eager with the Advent calendar. Or maybe the inflatable snowman didn't make it through the snowstorm. Or maybe the twinkle lights aren't twinkling. Whatever the reason, this season Instacart's here for hosts and their whole holiday haul. Get decorations from the Home Depot, CVS and more through Instacart, and enjoy free delivery on your first three orders, service fees and term supply.

The holidays are all about sharing with family. Meals, couches, stories, Grandma's secret pecan pie recipe. And now you can also share a cart with Instacart's family carts. Everyone can add what they want to one group cart from wherever they are. So you don't have to go from room to room to find out who wants cranberry sauce or who should get mini marshmallows for the yams or collecting votes for sugar cookies versus shortbread. Just share a cart and then share the meals and the moments. Download the Instacart app and get delivery in as fast as 30 minutes. Plus enjoy free delivery on your first three orders. Service fees and terms apply.

[Lone Ranger]

SA.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created and produced by George W. Trendle and directed by Charles D. Livingston. Tonight's story was written by Fran Striker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beamer.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739. This episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com/copyright. Have a great day and thanks for listening.