The Silver Trail | The Lone Ranger (04-26-50)

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: The Silver Trail | The Lone Ranger (04-26-50)
Release Date: January 27, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines

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Introduction

In this thrilling installment of Old Time Radio Westerns, listeners are transported to the untamed landscapes of the Wild West, where justice is swift and heroes ride under the cover of dusk. This episode, titled The Silver Trail, features the iconic Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto, as they navigate a contentious land dispute that threatens to disrupt the fragile peace between ranchers and Indigenous communities.

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Plot Summary

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and Tonto observing a westbound stagecoach traversing a valley, signaling the arrival of Judge Allen, who is set to mediate a land boundary dispute between rancher John Holbrook and the Indians of White Cloud's village. The conflict arises from a natural shift in a stream's course, which now affects the original property boundaries established by government deeds.

Key Points:

• Conflict Origin: A year prior, spring thaws caused the stream to alter its path, leading Holbrook to claim additional land based on the new streambed, while the Indians maintain the boundary should remain as per the original stream course.
• High Stakes: The Lone Ranger emphasizes the importance of this case as it could set a legal precedent impacting future land disputes (04:32–05:16).

As Judge Allen journeys to Newfield to deliberate, Holbrook, assisted by his foreman Corbett and the Indian agent Bart Benson, plots to manipulate the judge's decision. They conspire to abduct the judge and frame the Indians for the crime, aiming to coerce a favorable ruling.

Key Events:

• Confrontation: Holbrook and Corbett ambush Judge Allen near a fallen tree, forcibly extracting a letter from the judge intended to legitimize Holbrook's claim (12:22–14:15).
• Lone Ranger's Intervention: Following clues and witnessing suspicious activities, the Lone Ranger confronts Holbrook and Corbett, leading to a tense showdown where justice prevails as the villains are apprehended (25:04–25:55).

The climax resolves with Judge Allen upholding the original land boundaries, ensuring fairness and thwarting Holbrook's schemes. The Lone Ranger's valor reinforces his role as the unwavering guardian of justice.

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Key Characters

• The Lone Ranger: The masked hero dedicated to maintaining law and order in the West. His strategic thinking and bravery are pivotal in dismantling Holbrook's plot.
• Tonto: The Lone Ranger's loyal Native American companion, whose resourcefulness aids their mission.
• Judge Allen: An honest and steadfast judge entrusted with resolving the land dispute.
• John Holbrook: The antagonist, a greedy rancher determined to expand his holdings through deceitful means.
• Corbett: Holbrook's foreman, complicit in the abduction and coercion of Judge Allen.
• Bart Benson: The unscrupulous Indian agent who colludes with Holbrook.

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Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger on the Importance of the Case:
  "We'll establish a precedent. Will be bad if the judge rules that the Indians lose much of their land because a stream of Water changed."
  (05:07–05:16)

• Tonto on Boundary Disputes:
  "Many land fights start because of boundary lines."
  (04:55)

• Lone Ranger Confronting Bart Benson:
  "All Indians look alike to you, don't they, Benson? You're not interested in them as people. You're interested only in money."
  (17:10–17:34)

• Judge Allen Emphasizing Fairness:
  "In our courts, all men have equal rights without prejudice. A stream that marked a boundary has changed its course. In this case, it was an act of God."
  (26:19–27:30)

• Lone Ranger on Justice:
  "We'll tie these men and drop them into the pitfall. They'll stay there until the law comes for them."
  (25:45–25:55)

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Key Scenes and Highlights

1. Initial Surveillance ([03:32–06:43]):
   The Lone Ranger and Tonto identify the stagecoach carrying Judge Allen, setting the stage for the impending conflict. Their discussion highlights the legal complexities of land ownership and the potential ramifications of the judge's ruling.

2. Holbrook's Plot Unfolds ([07:04–15:10]):
   In Newfield, Holbrook and his associates engage in shady dealings with Bart Benson, aiming to secure Judge Allen's favor through coercion and deceit. The revelation of their plan to frame the Indians raises the stakes.

3. Confrontation and Capture ([16:18–25:55]):
   The Lone Ranger's pursuit leads to the discovery of Holbrook's scheme. Through strategic maneuvering, including the use of a pitfall trap and timely assistance from Tonto, the Lone Ranger successfully apprehends the villains, ensuring Judge Allen's safety.

4. Judicial Resolution ([25:55–27:34]):
   Judge Allen delivers a fair verdict, reinforcing the rule of law and the protection of rightful land boundaries. The courtroom scene underscores the episode's themes of justice and integrity.

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Insights and Themes

This episode underscores the timeless themes of justice, integrity, and the fight against corruption. The Lone Ranger embodies the ideal of an unwavering protector who stands against greed and deceit to uphold what is right. The narrative also touches upon the sensitive issue of land disputes involving Indigenous communities, highlighting the importance of fair legal processes and respect for original agreements.

Key Insights:

• Legal Precedent: The land dispute emphasizes how legal decisions can have far-reaching implications beyond the immediate parties involved.
• Moral Courage: Both the Lone Ranger and Tonto exhibit bravery and moral fortitude in the face of adversity.
• Cultural Respect: The portrayal of Indigenous characters like White Cloud and Tonto advocates for respect and equitable treatment.

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Conclusion

The Silver Trail delivers a compelling blend of action, suspense, and ethical deliberation, staying true to the essence of classic Western radio dramas. Through meticulous digital restoration, Andrew Rines enhances the auditory experience, making the Lone Ranger's adventures resonate with clarity and depth for both longtime fans and new listeners alike. This episode not only entertains but also prompts reflection on justice and the enduring struggle between good and evil in the frontier.

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Notable Production Details

• Creator: George W. Trendle
• Producer: Trendle Campbell Enterprises
• Director: Charles D. Livingston
• Writer: Fran Striker
• Performance: The Lone Ranger is brought to life by a legendary radio actor, capturing the character's iconic voice and presence.

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Listener Information

For those intrigued by this episode, Old Time Radio Westerns offers over 80 episodes each month, featuring a rich catalog of classic Western radio dramas. Enhanced through digital restoration, each story provides an immersive experience into the golden age of radio.

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Thank you for tuning into Old Time Radio Westerns. Subscribe to stay updated with our latest episodes and journey back into the enthralling tales of the Wild West.

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 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, with his faithful Indian companion Tato, 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 hoof beats of the great horse. Silver the Lone Ranger rides again.

[Lone Ranger]

That's so big fellow.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle were watching from a hilltop when they saw a westbound stage coach winding through the valley. They hurried downhill to a pile of boulders near the tr.

[Lone Ranger]

From here, Tono, we can see who's in the stagecoach.

[Tonto]

You think this stagecoach bring judge?

[Lone Ranger]

There's supposed to be a judge on this one. We'll soon know. I hope it's Judge Allen.

[Tonto]

Him plenty honest. Why him come here?

[Lone Ranger]

He's to settle an argument between a rancher named Holbrook and the Indians in White Cloud's village. Oh, Some time ago, the government gave a deed to property to White Cloud and another deed to Holbrook. The boundary between the two was marked by a stream of water.

[Tonto]

Why their argument?

[Lone Ranger]

Because a year ago during the spring thaws, the water changed its course and cut deep into the land belonging to the Indians. Holbrook immediately claimed that the land between the dried bed for the stream originally ran and the present stream. He claims that the stream marks the boundary line. And the Indians claim that the line is marked by the original course of the stream.

[Tonto]

Many land flights start because of boundary line.

[Lone Ranger]

That's why this case is important, Toto. We'll establish a precedent. Will be bad if the judge rules that the Indians lose much of their land because a stream of Water changed.

[Tonto]

Its course plenty bad.

[Lone Ranger]

It'll mean that anyone whose boundary is marked by a stream of water can take land from his neighbor by moving the stream.

[Tonto]

Me? Here.

[Lone Ranger]

Holbrook.

[Tonto]

Him make plenty trouble.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. He's the greediest man I've ever heard of, Toto. When he wants something, he gets it by hook or crook.

[Tonto]

Here comes stagecoach.

[Lone Ranger]

Now we can see who the judge is.

[Tonto]

You think Judge Allen ruled for Indians?

[Lone Ranger]

Judge Allen will rule fairly. His decision, whatever it is, will be the right one.

[Tonto]

One passenger in Statesco.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, it's Judge Allen.

[Tonto]

That good?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. Now I wonder what will happen.

[Tonto]

What?

[Lone Ranger]

You mean Holbrook wants that land very badly. He tried to buy it from White Cloud's people before the stream changed his course. Now he sees a chance to get it for nothing. He'll put up a fight. If Judge Allen rules against him.

[Tonto]

Anything him can do there might be.

[Lone Ranger]

That stagecoach will stop in Cold Springs to change horses. Then we'll go on to Newfield.

[Tonto]

That town near Holbrook ranch?

[Lone Ranger]

That's right, Toto. Judge Allen will probably go there to discuss the situation with the Indian agent, a man named Bart Benson. If we start now, we can get to Newfield ahead of the judge. Make camp. And you go into town and see what you can learn when the judge and Bart Benson talk. If the judge is going to rule against Holbrook, we may have to prepare for trouble.

[Tonto]

Oh, we start now?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tottle left the winding stagecoach trail and rode across the rolling rock studded prairie to reach Newfield ahead of the judge. The masked man remained in camp while Tottle rode into town and found a seat on the porch of the Indian agent's office. Corbett, the foreman on Holbrook's ranch was with Bart Benson, the Indian agent. Presently, Holbrook arrived.

[Bart Benson]

Hello, Holbrook.

[Corbett]

Have a chair.

[John Holbrook]

Thank you, Benson.

[Corbett]

Howdy, boss. I just got back from Cold Springs.

[John Holbrook]

Did the judge arrive?

[Corbett]

Yeah, I saw his stage. He's on the way here now. It's the judge. You didn't want Judge Allen?

[Bart Benson]

An honest judge. Holbrook, you can't negotiate with Judge Allen. You don't have a chance to get title to that property with Allen handing down the ruling.

[Corbett]

I talked to the judge, boss, and sounded him. He figures that anyone could change the course of a stream with blasting and digging. Therefore, the boundary of property shouldn't be changed just because the stream has moved. It'll take a strong argument to change his mind.

[John Holbrook]

Well, maybe I've got an argument that'll convince him.

[Lone Ranger]

Benson.

[John Holbrook]

I Might need some help from you. There'll be some cash in it.

[Bart Benson]

Well, I'm always open to a proposition. Indian agents don't get paid much.

[Corbett]

Before you talk too much, boss, I better close the window. There's an engine sitting on the porch. You can hear what's said.

[Bart Benson]

Most likely he doesn't savvy English, but there's no use taking chances.

[John Holbrook]

Now you can talk, Benson. Here's what I have in mind.

[Narrator]

Toto stayed on the porch for about a quarter of an hour, so it would not be obvious that he left because he could no longer hear the conversation in the office of the Indian agent. He rolled slowly until he reached the end of town. Then he hurried to the camp where the Lone Ranger was waiting. In a few words, he told the masked man as much as he knew.

[Lone Ranger]

And you couldn't hear what Holbrook wanted the Indian agent to do?

[Tonto]

No. Me not learn much.

[Lone Ranger]

You've learned quite a bit, Tonto. Steady there, Silver. I'm going to tighten your cinch. You learn that Holbrook is going to hire Bart Benson and it's probably for something underhanded. He's going to do something to make sure Judge Allen rules in his favor.

[Tonto]

That right?

[Lone Ranger]

I want to know what Holbrook plans to do. The Indian agent can tell us how.

[Tonto]

You make him talk.

[Lone Ranger]

Bring Benson here to camp.

[Tonto]

We go right now.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes, easy for us.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto went to the rear of the Indian agent's office so the masked man would not be seen and questioned by anyone who might be in the street. Tuttle dismounted, went around the building, and for the second time that day, walked up to the porch. This time, however, he didn't sit down. He went inside. Bart Benson, seated at his desk, was alone in the room.

[Bart Benson]

Well, Indian, what can I do for you?

[Tonto]

A feller in back building want power with you.

[Lone Ranger]

Now, who is he?

[Tonto]

Now you go out back door. You see him.

[Bart Benson]

Tell him he can come in here.

[Corbett]

If he wants to talk.

[Bart Benson]

I'm a busy man.

[Tonto]

Well, him busy, too. Now, you go out back door and you see.

[Judge Allen]

Wait.

[Bart Benson]

Hold on, redskin. Who do you think you're ordering around?

[Judge Allen]

Hey, hey.

[Corbett]

You go put down that gun.

[Bart Benson]

You'll never hear me take your gun.

[Tonto]

No, you go quick.

[Bart Benson]

All right, all right, I'll go. But you'll regret this. You've got a lesson coming to you. Last time a redskin got rough with me.

[Lone Ranger]

Go quick.

[Tonto]

There, feller. Who want talk?

[Corbett]

You. Your mask.

[Lone Ranger]

That's right, Benson. That's why I didn't care to come around to the front door. There might have been people in the street.

[Bart Benson]

What's the meaning of this? Who are you?

[Lone Ranger]

We have a lot to talk about, Benson, but not here. We'll go to my camp where we won't be disturbed. I'm not. Oh. Oh, my arm. There's a horse in the shed. We'll saddle it for you. Tie his hands together, Toto. It'll be easier to handle, Mrs. Abduction. You fix him. Tie them in front.

[Corbett]

You wait.

[Bart Benson]

You just wait. I have friends around here. They'll see that you get what's coming. Do you?

[Lone Ranger]

I expect to meet your friend a little later. Now keep quiet or we'll gag you.

[Narrator]

The stage coach was following a winding trail that would bring it into Newfield fully three hours after the arrival of the Lone Ranger and Tonto, who had taken a shortcut, and Corbett, who had to the same route over the rocky plain. The stage was about one hour from Newfield when Judge Allen became tired of riding alone and took a seat beside the driver.

[Judge Allen]

Get up there.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Get along, you lazy good for nothing.

[Judge Allen]

You're not pushing the horses too hard, are you, driver?

[Lone Ranger]

Oh.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Want to get to Newfield by sundown?

[Judge Allen]

Good. I'll be glad to see this trip ended.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Hey, Judge. It's none of my business, but I figure maybe you should know.

[Judge Allen]

Know what?

[Stagecoach Driver]

Well, you're going to be dealing with John Holbrook.

[Judge Allen]

Not exactly. He's one of the men involved in the case I'm presiding.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Well, that's what I mean. Downright anxious to get that land belonging to the Indian. So I understand when Holbrook wants something, he gets it one way or the other.

[Judge Allen]

Indeed.

[Stagecoach Driver]

I figured I would let you know. You better watch yourself, Judge.

[Lone Ranger]

Ho. Hold that. Ho.

[John Holbrook]

Hold that.

[Judge Allen]

What's the matter?

[Stagecoach Driver]

But, dad.

[Lone Ranger]

Ready?

[John Holbrook]

Look.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Look what's on the trailer head.

[Judge Allen]

The tree?

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Once it got blowed down by the wind.

[Judge Allen]

Well, the ground is level on both sides of the road. Perhaps you can go around the tree.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Yeah, maybe I can if the ground's hard enough. Hate to have to move that tree. Now I get down, have a look.

[Judge Allen]

I'll get down and have a look with you. It'll be a good chance to stretch my legs.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Yes, suit yourself.

[Lone Ranger]

Gun.

[Stagecoach Driver]

I can't figure how that tree could have blown down since the last time I was over this road. Been no high wind.

[Corbett]

Don't make a move. We have you covered, Corbett.

[John Holbrook]

Well, if it isn't Judge Allen.

[Judge Allen]

Who are you? What's the meaning of jumping out from behind a rock like this? And holding guns gentle.

[Stagecoach Driver]

And that's Holbrook. You're the good as his top hand. He's Corbett.

[Judge Allen]

Yes, I saw him in Cold Springs. So you are John Holbrook, eh?

[John Holbrook]

That's right, Judge. Thunder.

[Stagecoach Driver]

I bet these critters cut down that tree just so's we'd have to stop here. They were laying in wait for us. What is this hole, Brooker stick up?

[John Holbrook]

Not exactly. Let's call it a conference between me and Judge Allen.

[Judge Allen]

Oh, Rook, what do you mean?

[John Holbrook]

You and I have a lot to talk about, Judge. Mainly the ruling about the land. You see, I don't intend to let White Cloud and his Indians have that land. Now, I thought if you and I had a little talk, perhaps I could persuade you to decide in my favor.

[Judge Allen]

If you think you can influence me.

[John Holbrook]

I've got some mighty strong arguments for my side.

[Narrator]

Your Honor. John Holbrook and his top hand Corbett forced the driver to unhitch the team while they tied the Judge's hands.

[John Holbrook]

Now driver, get the judge's handbag from the stagecoach.

[Stagecoach Driver]

You get it yourself.

[Corbett]

Don't talk to my boss like that. Why? I do what Mr. Holbrook says. I have to whack you again. I'll use a barrel of my gun.

[Judge Allen]

You'd better do as they want.

[Stagecoach Driver]

All right, Judge Allen. I'll get the bag.

[John Holbrook]

The judge might need some of the things that are in it.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Here it is.

[Lone Ranger]

All right.

[John Holbrook]

Now come back here, driver.

[Stagecoach Driver]

What's your game, Holbrook? How far do you think you'll get with this kind of a deal?

[John Holbrook]

Far enough by the driver's hands, Corbett.

[Corbett]

Right, boss.

[Narrator]

Now you see here.

[Corbett]

Give me your hands and shut up.

[John Holbrook]

Make them good and tight.

[Corbett]

Don't worry, I tight man. He stays tight.

[Judge Allen]

Holbrook. I suppose you plan to use force to make me rule in your favor on the title of that piece of land.

[John Holbrook]

Well, that's a first rate guess, Judge Allen.

[Judge Allen]

Corbett learned how I felt about the matter when he talked to me in Cold Springs.

[John Holbrook]

You shouldn't have talked so much.

[Judge Allen]

If you seek message like these.

[Lone Ranger]

Save it.

[John Holbrook]

You'll hear all the details when we get to where we're going.

[Lone Ranger]

It'll hold you.

[Stagecoach Driver]

If it doesn't hold me, Corbett, you'll be a dead pigeon.

[John Holbrook]

Hetch.

[Tonto]

A promise.

[John Holbrook]

All right, Corbett, set fire to the stage Right.

[Lone Ranger]

Fire.

[John Holbrook]

Just as the Indians would do. You see, this is to look like the work of Indians. Members of White Cloud's tribe. Of all the cowardly tricks we just started, Judge Allen. Before we're through the Indians may be charged with a lot more than the burning of a stagecoach.

[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.

[Lone Ranger]

It.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. After capturing Judge Allen and the driver and setting fire to the stagecoach, Corba took the stage horses into White Clouds territory, while Holbrook forced the prisoners to go to White Rock. In the meantime, the Lone Ranger and Tottle had reached camp with the Indian agent. They tied Bart Benson's hands and feet and placed him on the ground with his back against a tree.

[Lone Ranger]

Now, Benson, you're going to talk.

[Bart Benson]

You'll be sorry for this.

[Lone Ranger]

I'm not interested in empty threats. I want information.

[Bart Benson]

You just wait till the law hears.

[Lone Ranger]

No one's going to hear anything while you're tied up here. There's a chance that you may not be around to know what happens after this little conference. What's Holbrooke going to do about Judge Allen?

[Bart Benson]

Judge Allen?

[Lone Ranger]

I said, what is Holbrooke going to do about Judge Allen?

[Bart Benson]

How can you be interested? Why are you.

[Lone Ranger]

I repeated my question. You can't possibly misunderstand.

[Bart Benson]

Look, mister, you've got the wrong man. I don't know anything about Holbrook's plan.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't lie. I was on your porch while Holbrook was in your office.

[Bart Benson]

You mean he. Oh, so you're that Indian who was right.

[Lone Ranger]

All Indians look alike to you, don't they, Benson? You're not interested in them as people. You're interested only in money. And you're always open to a proposition. Isn't that what you told Holbrooke just before Corbett closed the window in your office?

[Bart Benson]

Are you. You eavesdroppin redskin.

[Lone Ranger]

The government pays you to work in the interest of the Indians. What do you suppose White Cloud will say when he finds you're prepared to sell him out? What do you suppose White Cloud will do if he comes here and finds you tied? Come on, Tullo. We'll go to White Cloud.

[Bart Benson]

No way.

[Lone Ranger]

Make it fast.

[Bart Benson]

Oh, you can't leave me here. You can't let those Indians go to work on me.

[Lone Ranger]

It'll make you wish you'd taken advantage of this chance to talk, said Electric.

[Bart Benson]

Oh, don't go. I'll talk. I'll talk. Listen to me. Holbrooke wants the judge to rule against the Indians on a land boundary.

[Lone Ranger]

What does Holbrook plan to do to the judge?

[Bart Benson]

He's going to capture him. He's going to force him to put his ruling in writing. He'll hand the ruling over to me. And I'm supposed to see that it's enforced.

[Lone Ranger]

Does Holbrook plan to kill the judge?

[Bart Benson]

Yes. Yes. He and Corbett, they. They'll burn the stagecoach and leave the horses near White Cloud's place so the murder will look like Indian work.

[Lone Ranger]

Burn the stagecoach? You mean to say they've already started out to meet the stage? Yes. Huddle. Keep an eye on this man till I get back. I'm going to try to reach the stagecoach before it's too late.

[John Holbrook]

Easy.

[Lone Ranger]

Steady, big fella. One fell there.

[Narrator]

A lone ranger followed the stagecoach, the scene of the abduction. There were hoof marks on the ground. A full moon made it easy to follow the tracks of three horses across the plains. Presently, he saw a massive rock pile some distance ahead. He dismounted and left Silver at ground hitch to proceed more quietly on foot. Drawing closer, he realized that the rocks made a natural fortress. But he didn't know that at some time past, men who would use the fort had protected themselves against surprise attack by digging a mold, a trench fully 10ft deep over which they had laid a flimsy covering of twigs and grass. Soon the Lone Ranger heard voices from beyond the rocks.

[Lone Ranger]

That's Holbrooke.

[Corbett]

Don't worry about that, boss. How you making out with a judge?

[John Holbrook]

He's stubborn about making out a paper. He'll have to work on him. Thought I'd wait for you.

[Corbett]

Well, I'm here now.

[Narrator]

Crouching low, the Lone Ranger drew a gun and started forward. Then the ground beneath his feet gave way.

[John Holbrook]

What's that?

[Corbett]

Something fell into the ditch. Come on. We'll find out if it's man of beast.

[John Holbrook]

Whatever it is, it's trapped.

[Narrator]

Scrambling over the rocks, Holbrook and Corbett came to the place where the Lone Ranger had broken through the covering of the pitfall.

[John Holbrook]

Don't get too close to the edge.

[Lone Ranger]

Hey, you.

[Corbett]

Who's down there?

[Lone Ranger]

You'll find out when you haul me up.

[John Holbrook]

We'll find out before we haul you up. Where'd you come from? I'll answer no questions until you get me out. Then you can stay there until we're ready to get you out.

[Narrator]

In. The Indian agent was held captive. Tato began to feel concern at the long, continued absence of the Lone Ranger. He built a fire to serve as a beacon. Still, the masked man did not return. Tonto had tried several times to get more information from Bart Benson, without success. Finally, Tato drew a knife from the sheath in his belt. It glinted in the firelight as he felt the keen blade.

[Bart Benson]

What are you going to do with that knife?

[Tonto]

Maybe find out if you know where Holbrook take Jack. Maybe that where mask friend goes?

[Bart Benson]

I can't tell what I don't know.

[Tonto]

You win. Me not hurt you. Me put knife away. Me go look for mask friend leave you here. But first make sure ropes are plenty tight.

[Narrator]

As Tonto leaned to inspect the ropes, Bart Benson saw the knife, which had been put only lightly in the sheath, fall out and drop to the ground. As Tonto moved away from the campfire, Bart Benson fairly held his breath for fear the Indian would discover that he had dropped his knife. For several minutes after Tottle rode away, the Indian agent waited motionless. Then, when he no longer heard the hoof beats, he squirmed forward until he could reach the knife with his hands, which had been tied at the wrists. It took some straining and struggling, but presently Benson managed to cut the ropes. Then he cut the bonds above his ankles. He was free. He hurried to the place where his horse had been left. He tightened the cinch, then picked up the reins and leaped to the saddle.

[Bart Benson]

Get up there.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger had tried to scale the perpendicular side of the pitfall several times. He knew that while he remained there, utterly helpless, Holbrook and Corbett were arguing with Judge Allen. He knew also that as the judge remained stubborn, the arguments would soon give way to more violent means of persuasion.

[John Holbrook]

I'm trying to be patient with you, Judge Allen. But there's a limit to my patience.

[Judge Allen]

No matter what you do to me, you can't win.

[John Holbrook]

Well, that's where you're wrong. Can't you get it through your head that I'll win no matter what happens when you and the driver are found dead? The Indians will be blamed for the murders. Just as they'll be blamed for burning the stage and stealing the horses.

[Judge Allen]

That won't give you the land that belongs to White Cloud.

[John Holbrook]

If you're killed, there'll be another judge. He may not be so stubborn. You'll save his life by giving me what I want.

[Judge Allen]

And you'll kill me as soon as you have it. You know very well I'll jail you if I'm free. You're all wrong on this, Holbrook. A mere letter from me won't give you possession of that land. There will have to be a court action during which you will present your side and White Cloud will present his.

[John Holbrook]

We got that figured out. There'll be a court action with a local judge presiding. Now, if we take him a letter with Your recommendations and explain that you were called away. You'll see that I get the land.

[Corbett]

Especially with the Indian agent on our side.

[Judge Allen]

You have it all worked out, haven't you?

[John Holbrook]

That's right. You just write a letter explaining that you've been called away, but that you've studied the case and that it's your opinion the land should be mine.

[Lone Ranger]

And then.

[Corbett]

Boss, someone's coming.

[John Holbrook]

Now, look over the rocks. Here it is.

[Corbett]

Might be another candidate for the pitfall, huh?

[John Holbrook]

Someone just came over the hill.

[Corbett]

Is there moon enough to show who it is?

[John Holbrook]

Looks like Benson.

[Lone Ranger]

Benson?

[John Holbrook]

Yeah. Yeah, it is.

[Corbett]

Better warn him about the pitfall.

[John Holbrook]

He knows about it. He knows about a crossover.

[Lone Ranger]

What's the matter, Benson?

[Bart Benson]

I thought I better tell you. Holbrook. There's a masked man and an Indian looking for you. Yeah, yeah, they captured me. I was held while a masked man set out to warn the judge. He set out before dark.

[John Holbrook]

Well, he was too late. We got the judge.

[Corbett]

Maybe the masked man's the one who came here. He's in the pitfall over yonder.

[Bart Benson]

Then you got him, huh? That's good.

[John Holbrook]

We'll deal with him as soon as we get what we want from the judge.

[Narrator]

Benson didn't suspect that Toto had left his knife near the fire on purpose in the hope that the Indian agent would free himself and hurry to Holbrook. Tanto had followed at a distance. When he came to the top of a hill and saw Benson at the rocks, he quickly dismounted and left his horse behind the hill. He hugged the ground, inching forward on his stomach. When he neared the rocks, he saw a gaping hole to his right and moved toward it to investigate. Meanwhile, inside the circle of rocks, Corbett was unlacing one of the driver's boots.

[John Holbrook]

This is going to be tough on you, driver. But you can thank Judge Allen for it.

[Corbett]

What are you gonna do?

[John Holbrook]

You ought to be able to guess. I'd hurry with that boot, Carpet. This is your last chance, Alan. If you're ready to start writing your decision in my favor, you won't have to watch the driver get.

[Judge Allen]

No, no, no. Don't, dad. I'll give you what you want.

[John Holbrook]

Well, at last you're showing sense. He'd untie his hands.

[Stagecoach Driver]

You shouldn't do it to save me, Judge.

[Judge Allen]

I have no choice. I'll give them what they want. Not only to save you, but to save the next judge who might come here. There you are, Holbrooke. There's your letter.

[John Holbrook]

Thank you, Judge Allen.

[Corbett]

Now, should we let the judge and Driver have it for us.

[John Holbrook]

Might as well.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll take that paper. Ow, my arm. Come on, Tuttle, let's take him. Nice man.

[John Holbrook]

I'll kill you.

[Lone Ranger]

No you won't.

[Narrator]

Sneaking down from the rocks, the Lone Ranger and Tottle met Holbrook and Benson Hampton. While Corbett writhed with the pain of a broken arm. A well directed blow put Holbrook down. Corbett reached for a gun with his good hand, but the masked man was too quick.

[Lone Ranger]

No you don't.

[Bart Benson]

He got this one.

[Lone Ranger]

At my arm you're twisting. And over there you're covered. Keep an eye on them, Toto. I'll free the judge and driver. I'll cut the rope around your feet, Judge Allen. And you can free the driver. There you are.

[Judge Allen]

There was one man caught in the pitfall.

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. Toto found me there. He lowered his lariat and pull me out.

[Stagecoach Driver]

Hey, Judge, I reckon this is the.

[Lone Ranger]

First time you and me have had.

[Stagecoach Driver]

A masked man on our side.

[Judge Allen]

And I'm not one to question the way in which providence sends him.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll tie these men and drop them into the pitfall. They'll stay there until the law comes for them.

[Narrator]

It was three days later when Judge Allen held court in Newfield. White Cloud stated his case simply, Whole blood. Corbett and Benson were in court wearing handcuffs with deputies who would return them to the jail to await another trial. After the present one was finished. No one was aware of the masked man and the Indian who sat on their horses outside and watched the proceedings through a window.

[Judge Allen]

The court has studied this case and heard testimony from both sides. The decision about to be rendered is important for two reasons. First, it may serve as an example by which other similar cases may be decided. It Second, it will give evidence that the principles on which our government is founded are more than mere words on paper. In our courts, all men have equal rights without prejudice. A stream that marked a boundary has changed its course. In this case it was an act of God. If this course ruled that those who own land could lose their property because of this, it would be a simple matter for unscrupulous people to gain possession of land bounded by a similar scheme to increase their holdings by artificially diverting the water. This court therefore rules that the boundary remains fixed and marked by the former bed of the stream. Holbrook, if you are not satisfied with this decision, you may appeal and insist on trial by jury.

[John Holbrook]

What's the use? I know when I'm licked. What about the other case?

[Judge Allen]

Abduction and intent to kill? Yeah, that will be another trial. And I promised the masked man I would remain here to see that you and your friends were punished to the full extent of the law. He has added greatly to the list of those who are indebted to him, White Cloud and the Indians. The driver of the stagecoach owes his life to that masked man, and so do I. Yes, many people are indebted to the masked man. He is the Lone Ranger.

[Lone Ranger]

It's.

[Narrator]

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

[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 the following ranch hand, Steve who joined us recently. You too can join by going to otrwesterns.com donate send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com and you can call and leave us a voicemail. 707-986-8739 this episode is copyright under the Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Corbett]

SA.