The Third Robbery | The Lone Ranger (04-28-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns – The Lone Ranger: “The Third Robbery” (Aired: April 28, 1952)

Podcast Release Date: October 16, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes

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Episode Overview

In this digitally restored Western radio classic, The Lone Ranger and his loyal companion Tonto are called to action when a third daring gold shipment robbery hits near Medicine Springs. As suspicion falls upon innocent men and a conspiracy emerges right in the heart of the town, the dynamic duo must untangle a web of lies and deceit to restore justice. This episode is a classic “whodunit” with tense showdowns, clever plotting, and the signature sense of adventure that defined The Lone Ranger’s run on radio.

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Key Discussion Points, Plot Developments, & Insights

1. Setting the Scene: Anticipating the Third Robbery

• [03:13] Jackknife Hill: Notorious for train robberies; two previous gold shipments have been stolen.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto stake out the area, expecting the thieves to strike again, but the train passes without incident.
• Insight: The Lone Ranger deduces that the thieves must have an inside source informing them about gold shipments (“I’m sure of one thing...the thieves have some way of knowing when gold is being sent to Medicine Springs.” — The Lone Ranger, [03:56]).

2. Sheriff Bell, the Newspaper, and the Town’s Tensions

• [05:21] Sheriff Edward Bell manages both the local newspaper and the sheriff’s office.
• His daughter, Julie, expresses concerns that if there’s a third robbery, he’ll face harsh criticism from Barney Pitt, the station agent.
• The Lone Ranger’s involvement is confirmed, symbolized by his iconic silver bullet sent by mail.
• Quote:
  “How did you get the help of the Lone Ranger?”
  “He helped me once before, Julie. And he said to let him know if I ever needed him again.”
  – Julie Bell & Sheriff Bell ([06:56])

3. The Robbery Hits the Station

• [07:20] During the midnight arrival of the third gold shipment, masked men rob the express car at the station instead of on the tracks.
• Johnny Coates, the young assistant station agent, and Al Summers, the wounded express guard, give accounts of the well-planned heist.
• Barney Pitt accuses Johnny of possibly being an inside informant due to the repeated unlucky timing during railroad shipments (never when Johnny’s uncle, Ben Coates, is shipping by wagon).
• Notable Exchange:
  "It strikes me as mighty strange that the gold is always stolen while the railroad is responsible. Never when your uncle is freighting it."
  – Barney Pitt to Johnny Coates ([09:40])
• Johnny is fired by Pitt after a heated exchange.

4. The Real Conspirators Revealed

• [11:30] Late-night secret meeting: Pitt is revealed to be the criminal mastermind, “the boss.” His henchmen, Cherokee and Brush, report back after the heist.
• Pitt instructs them to frame Ben Coates by planting stolen gold and canvas bags at his place.
• Memorable Conspiratorial Moment:
  "We’ll have to work fast. The law will not rest until someone is jailed. The sooner we hand the sheriff a prisoner, the better off we’ll be."
  – Barney Pitt ([12:48])

5. Johnny and Ben Coates—Setup and Kidnapping

• [16:03] Johnny recognizes Cherokee’s voice in the stable and correctly identifies him as one of the robbers.
• Both Johnny and Ben are captured, gagged, and bound, then hidden in Ben’s freight wagon, which is driven away to an isolated spot.
• The gang plans to spread rumors in town to further frame the Coates.

6. The Lone Ranger’s Investigation and Rescue

• [18:27] The Lone Ranger, Sheriff Bell, and Tonto cross paths during their respective investigations.
• Tonto assists the sheriff tracking the crooks' trail, while The Lone Ranger discovers the abandoned Coates team, tracks them to the wagon, and rescues the captives.
• Quote:
  "You needn’t worry about my mask. I’ll cut those ropes."
  – The Lone Ranger, reassuring Johnny and Ben ([21:26])
• The Lone Ranger learns that Pitt’s men have gone to report back at the railroad station.

7. Showdown at the Station – Justice Served

• [23:08] Julie Bell visits the station, overhears incriminating talk among Pitt, Brush, and Cherokee, and is caught and threatened.
• The Lone Ranger arrives just in time, subduing the villains with a display of expert marksmanship ("The Lone Ranger’s twin Colts were already in action. Silver bullets wing Barney and Brush." [25:12]).
• Sheriff Bell, Tonto, and Johnny arrive for the denouement—Cherokee's confession and evidence seal Pitt's fate.
• Justice Restored:
  "You and your pals will be out of circulation for a long time. I’ll see that the railroad hears the true facts of what happened. Johnny Coates will probably get his job back and a promotion."
  – Sheriff Bell ([26:49])

8. Final Revelations and The Lone Ranger Rides Again

• Pitt laments underestimating the outside help, not knowing the 'masked man and the Indian’ were the Lone Ranger and Tonto ([27:21]-[27:32]).
• Justice is restored, innocence is vindicated, and The Lone Ranger once more fades into legend.

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Memorable Quotes and Moments with Timestamps

• “That the thieves have some way of knowing when gold is being sent to Medicine Springs.”
  – The Lone Ranger ([03:56])

• “A silver bullet, Julie. It came by mail yesterday. There was a note with it.”
  – Sheriff Bell ([06:39])

• “It strikes me as mighty strange that the gold is always stolen while the railroad is responsible. Never when your uncle is freighting it.”
  – Barney Pitt ([09:40])

• “I’ll bandage your wounds until the doctor arrives. Johnny, this is the third time we’ve lost a gold shipment.”
  – Barney Pitt ([09:27])

• “I told you I think the sheriff has some outside help on these robberies. Federal men or railroad detectives might find clues that would lead to us.”
  – Barney Pitt ([12:13])

• “You’re the one who made the mistake, mister. I’d recognize your voice anywhere.”
  – Johnny Coates, confronting Cherokee ([16:15])

• “You needn’t worry about my mask. I’ll cut those ropes.”
  – The Lone Ranger, to Johnny and Ben ([21:26])

• “They were going to kill me.”
  – Julie Bell, after her rescue ([25:30])

• “We got him when he stepped outside to bolt the door. He’s on the station platform right now telling the masked man’s friend Tonto all he knows.”
  – Sheriff Bell ([25:33])

• “They’re not disguised, Barney. This Indian is Tonto. And the masked man you tangled with is The Lone Ranger.”
  – Sheriff Bell ([27:32])

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Major Turning Points & Timestamps

• [05:12]– Sheriff Bell receives the iconic silver bullet from The Lone Ranger, indicating help is on the way.
• [07:20]– Third robbery executed at the train station under everyone’s nose.
• [09:38]– Barney Pitt casts suspicion on Johnny, revealing his manipulative nature.
• [11:30]– Pitt revealed as the criminal mastermind.
• [16:03]– Johnny Coates confronts Cherokee, confirming the rogues’ identities.
• [21:11]– The Lone Ranger rescues Johnny and Ben Coates, flipping the investigation.
• [23:08]– Climactic confrontation in the station; Julie Bell is endangered.
• [25:12]– The Lone Ranger intervenes, justice is served.
• [27:32]– True identities and intentions revealed; town order restored.

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Tone and Style

True to its Golden Age legacy, this episode brims with rapid-fire exchanges, moral clarity, and moments of suspense, all delivered in the classic, earnest tones synonymous with radio’s frontier dramas. The Lone Ranger’s iconic stoicism and Julie Bell’s courage accentuate the high-stakes, yet righteous, mood throughout.

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Summary Provided by Old Time Radio Westerns / OTRWesterns.com
(Restoration by Andrew Rhynes – bringing classic radio to modern ears)

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Transcript

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

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 hi. O Silver. The Lone Ranger.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

It's Sam Sa.

[Narrator]

Faithful Indian companion. Totto, the daring and resourceful mask 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.

[The Lone Ranger]

O Silver, let's go, big foe. Silver.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Away.

[Narrator]

Jackknife Hill was the longest grade between Denver and the town of Medicine Springs. Trains westbound from Denver frequently slowed almost to a halt before the engines reached the top of the long slope. It was here the train robbers had struck twice and successfully escaped. With gold coins consigned to Medicine Springs, A third such shipment of gold was on the way. The train was scheduled to reach the top of Jackknife Hill at five o' clock in the evening. Two men were watching from the concealment of underbrush not far from the tracks. But they were not the train robbers. They were the Lone Ranger and Totto.

[The Lone Ranger]

The train is just about on time, Toto.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You think crooks hiding nearby?

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, if they are, we'll do our best to capture them. I'm sure of one thing. And what? That the thieves have some way of knowing when gold is being sent to Medicine Springs.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Why gold sent there? There are plenty gold mine close to Medicine Springs.

[The Lone Ranger]

Gold bullion from the mines is sent to Denver. Then the westbound train brings coin gold from the mint to the mine owners.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Oh, and you savvy?

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff Bell believes that thieves are working out of Medicine Springs.

[Johnny Coates]

Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Friend of yours? Where's Tullo? A good friend.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Why him not come here? Stand watch.

[The Lone Ranger]

If the crooks are in Medicine Springs, as he suspects, they'd know it when he left town to come here. They'd simply call off their plans to steal the gold. We want to catch them.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

The train nearly reached top of slope.

[The Lone Ranger]

And still no sign of thieves. I wonder if they've learned that this part of the track is being watched.

[Narrator]

The engine reached the crest of Jack Knife Hill and continued westward without incident. When the train had passed, the masked man turned to toddle.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Taro, that shipment of gold should reach Medicine Spring safely.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

We go there now, see, Sheriff Bell.

[The Lone Ranger]

No toddle a long way and the horses are tired. We'll camp here until daybreak.

[Narrator]

A train was scheduled to reach Madison Springs at midnight. It was just before midnight when Sheriff Edward Bell hung up an ink stained apron in the office of the Medicine Springs Gazette. Ed Bell still owned the newspaper, but his daughter Julie had been its manager since her father had been elected to the full time job of sheriff.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Well, honey types sitting locked, the press is ready to run first thing in the morning.

[Julie Bell]

And here's the coffee, dad. Hot from the stove.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

That'll taste mighty good.

[Julie Bell]

I wish you'd hire someone to set the type so you wouldn't have to work so late.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I enjoy helping you, Julie. And it's only one night a week. What's more, I intended to stay up tonight until the train arrives.

[Julie Bell]

Dad, I wonder if you should have followed Bonnie Pitt's suggestion to ride to.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Jack Knife Hill and try to trap the train robbers.

[Julie Bell]

Yes. He told you there'd be another shipment of gold on tonight's train.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Mighty good cup of coffee.

[Julie Bell]

Barney Pitt will be after your badge if there's another gold robbery. Three times in a row.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Julie, your job is running a newspaper. Barney Pitt's job is station agent for the railroad and my job is sheriff. When I want advice from Barney Pitt, I'll ask for. Anyhow, Julie, Jackknife Hill was well guarded. If those crooks showed themselves, they're in custody by this time.

[Julie Bell]

But how do you.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Now, look at this.

[Julie Bell]

A bullet.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

A silver bullet, Julie. It came by mail yesterday. There was a note with it.

[Julie Bell]

From the Lone Ranger?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yep.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

He and Tonter were watching Jackknife Hill when the train passed there.

[Julie Bell]

Oh, dad, that's wonderful.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Now mind you, Julie, not a word about it to anyone.

[Julie Bell]

How did you get the help of the Lone Ranger?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

He helped me once before, Julie. And he said to let him know if I ever needed him again. Well, I figured I needed him to catch the gold thieves. So I sent word to a preacher who knows how to reach him.

[Julie Bell]

Do you think the Lone Ranger will come here?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

If he catches the crooks, he'll bring him in. He may come here anyway, as you would hope. Show him. Well, there's your train.

[Julie Bell]

A few minutes early.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I'll go to the station immediately.

[Julie Bell]

I'll go with you. I hear the train stopping, dad. Throw shots.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Sounds like the shooting is down by the tracks.

[Julie Bell]

Oh, damn.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Who's on duty at the station? Barney Pitt or his assistant?

[Julie Bell]

Johnny Coates is Working tonight.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Then you go next door and get Barney. Pittsburgh. Tell him there's gunplay and it seems to be at the station. Tell him I've gone there.

[Narrator]

As the sheriff raced past the darkened houses along the main street of town, he drew his guns. He turned a corner and passed the cattle yards and finally the large warehouse that blocked the view of the station. Then he saw the train. The conductor and the engineer were kneeling beside the express guard while the fireman helped young Johnny Coates, the assistant station agent, to his feet.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

What's your gun playing?

[The Lone Ranger]

Nubian rode the express car and got away.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You mean they staged your robbery right here at the station?

[Johnny Coates]

That's right, Sheriff. Their faces were covered with bandanas. They held guns on me while the train pulled into the station. When it stopped and the guard opened the door of the express car to unload the gold, I tried to shout a warner. But one of the crooks slugged me. The other one started firing at me.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You were the guard?

[Johnny Coates]

Yeah. Al Summers is my name, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You've been hit in the arm.

[Johnny Coates]

Both arms. They put me out of the fight, but I didn't lose consciousness. I saw him climb into the express car and grab the box of gold. Those two knew what they were about, Sheriff. They didn't waste any time.

[Julie Bell]

Here's Barney Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

What happened, Sheriff? I heard the shooting.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Two men robbed the express car.

[The Lone Ranger]

Did they get away with the gold? Yeah. They made the getaway in a wagon, Mr. Pitt. He had a team and Buck board at the side of the station. Didn't anyone try to stop them?

[Johnny Coates]

The engineer and conductor jumped off the train and opened fire in the darkness. It was too hard to hit the polecats. By the time the engineer and conductor got back here with lanterns, the crooks had gotten away in the wagon. They had fast horses.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, been hurt. Someone get the doctor.

[Julie Bell]

Yes, I'll go.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I'm going to look for tracks of that wagon.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's a dark night to follow track, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

If need be, follow him by lantern light.

[The Lone Ranger]

Summers, we'll wait inside the station for the doctor. You come along, Johnny. I want to talk to you.

[Johnny Coates]

All right, Mr. Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yeah, sit right down here, Summers.

[Johnny Coates]

I'll be all right.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll bandage your wounds until the doctor arrives. Johnny, this is the third time we've lost a gold shipment.

[Johnny Coates]

I know it, Mr. Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now, I think you could have prevented this robbery.

[Johnny Coates]

Well, how could I? I did my best.

[The Lone Ranger]

You tried to warn us, Mr. Pitt.

[Johnny Coates]

When I shouted a warning, the crooks knocked me out.

[The Lone Ranger]

That might have been done so you wouldn't be suspected.

[Johnny Coates]

Suspected of what? You think I was working with those crooks?

[The Lone Ranger]

Someone's letting them know when there's gold coming through. It strikes me as mighty strange that the gold is always stolen while the railroad is responsible. Never when your uncle is freighting it.

[Johnny Coates]

What are you getting at?

[The Lone Ranger]

Your Uncle Ben picks up gold shipments here at the station and freights them south through the mine owners.

[Johnny Coates]

Well, that's his business, freighting.

[The Lone Ranger]

It'll be much easier for crooks to stick up your uncle's freight wagon than to rob the train. But the gold is never stolen from your uncle. It's always stolen from the train.

[Johnny Coates]

Now, hold on, Mr. Pitt. My uncle Ben has nothing to do with this.

[The Lone Ranger]

He's been against the railroad from the beginning. Probably because it cuts into his freighting business. Since he can't compete with the railroad, he's.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I found the tracks of the wagon. I'll get a party in front of them.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, let's find you.

[Johnny Coates]

Now, listen, Mr. Pitt. If you think my Uncle Ben had anything to do with this robbery, quit.

[The Lone Ranger]

So working with someone who knows when gold will be shipped.

[Johnny Coates]

They could find that out in Denver.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. And they could find it out here in Madison Springs. From you or your uncle. Are you. Let go of me.

[Johnny Coates]

I'll let go when you take back what you said about my Uncle Ben.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Let it go, Johnny.

[Johnny Coates]

I ought to break his neck.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You heard me, Johnny.

[Johnny Coates]

All right, sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Coach. Coach, you're fired. Come around in the morning. Get your pay.

[Narrator]

The doctor came and dressed Summers wounds. The train continued on its way. The sheriff swore in a few deputies and set out with lanterns to try to follow the wagon trail. Barney Pitt attended to a number of details, then went to his home. He sat in the living room for over an hour. Then he heard a light tap on the rear door. It was the signal for which he waited. He hurried through the kitchen and opened the door. Two men stood there. They were known as Cherokee and Brush.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come in, boys. You covered your tracks?

[Cherokee]

Yeah, they're covered.

[The Lone Ranger]

What did you do with the wagon?

[Cherokee]

He cut the horses free and shoved it over the edge of Stonewall Canyon.

[Johnny Coates]

Here's your share of the loot in this saddlebag. Boss.

[Cherokee]

What about our next job?

[The Lone Ranger]

There'll be no next job. At least not for some time. We're lucky we got away with it tonight.

[Cherokee]

How so?

[The Lone Ranger]

I suggested to the sheriff that he go out and keep an eye on Jackknife Hill. He didn't do it, but the way he looked at me. He has something up his Sleeve. There may be railroad detectives working on these robberies. You better lie low.

[Johnny Coates]

And the sheriff is right here in town?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, he's out now looking for you two. Let him look.

[Cherokee]

Even in daylight he can't follow our tracks far. We're in the clear.

[The Lone Ranger]

You may not stay in the clear.

[Cherokee]

What do you mean?

[The Lone Ranger]

I told you. I think the sheriff has some outside help on these robberies. Federal men or railroad detectives might find clues that would lead to us. One thing is sure. There'll be an investigation.

[Cherokee]

How would it be if we fixed things so the investigation ended in a hurry?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

What do you mean?

[Cherokee]

Frame someone for the robberies?

[The Lone Ranger]

I've already considered that. In fact, I started working on it tonight.

[Cherokee]

You want any help from us?

[The Lone Ranger]

All you have to do is keep an eye on Ben Coates, the freighter. When you have a chance, plant a couple of hundred dollars in gold in his place. Together with a few of the canvas bags that held the coins.

[Cherokee]

Yeah. Hi. Savvy?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I thought you would. Cherokee, remember this. We'll have to work fast. The law will not rest until someone is jailed. The sooner we hand the sheriff a prisoner, the better off we'll be.

[Narrator]

At daybreak, the Lone Ranger and Tonto left their camp on Jackknife Hill and started toward Medicine Springs, not knowing that a gold robbery had taken place. And in Medicine Springs, the gold thieves, Brush and Cherokee were also on the move. Before sunrise, as they walked toward the stable where old Ben Coates kept his freight wagon and horses, Brush grumbled.

[Johnny Coates]

You go on to the stable, Cherokee. I'll see you there later.

[Cherokee]

Where are you going?

[Johnny Coates]

Find a cup of coffee and some breakfast.

[Narrator]

As the man called Cherokee approached the stable, the big wooden door swung open. Ben Coates propped a board against it to keep it from closing. Ben turned to re enter the barn like building when Cherokee called.

[Cherokee]

Howdy, Mr. Coates.

[Johnny Coates]

Good morning, mister.

[Cherokee]

Cherokee's my name.

[Johnny Coates]

I've seen you around town, but I reckon we've never met. You want some freighting done?

[Cherokee]

No, leastwise, not today. Looks like you're set to travel.

[Johnny Coates]

Yeah. The wagon's loaded and the team's hitched. I'm heading for the mines.

[Cherokee]

What about your nephew? The one who works in the railroad station?

[Johnny Coates]

You mean used to work in the railroad station? Johnny was fired last night and I'm just as glad that ugly looking station agent told him he was through. Now on, Johnny'll work with me. I always said he should stick to freight.

[Cherokee]

Well then Johnny will be traveling with you this trip?

[Johnny Coates]

That's right. From now on, we'll work together.

[Cherokee]

Well, glad to hear it, Mr. Cruz.

[Johnny Coates]

Please, mister. You're coming. Hey, Johnny. What's the idea of pulling a gun on Cherokee? The last time I saw this fella, he had a bandana over his.

[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.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. Johnny Coates had been in the rear of the stable when Cherokee entered and spoke to Old Ben. Johnny had recognized the outlaw's voice. Holding a gun in his hand. Johnny said, you're one of the train robbers.

[Johnny Coates]

You're local. Tell that to the sheriff. Johnny. What are you talking about? Last night's train robbery. Uncle Ben, this is one of the train robbers. I recognize his voice. Take his guns. All right, if you say so.

[Cherokee]

You're making a mistake, Johnny.

[Johnny Coates]

You're the one who made the mistake, mister. I'd recognize your voice anywhere. And I'll know your partner's when I hear it. You're hearing it now, kid. Drop your gun. He's right behind you, Johnny. I'm covering both of you. Drop your gun, kid, or I'll let your uncle have it.

[Cherokee]

All right, now take that gun. Now give me mine.

[Johnny Coates]

Here. Here.

[Cherokee]

I was afraid you wouldn't get here in time to take over, Brush.

[Johnny Coates]

I wouldn't be here if I'd been able to find something to eat. But the restaurant and the cafes aren't open yet. I didn't think both of you'd be loco enough to stay in town after that robbery.

[Cherokee]

Shut up.

[Johnny Coates]

What'll we do with them, Cherokee?

[Cherokee]

Barney wanted us to frame the old man.

[Johnny Coates]

Barney? The station agent, Barney Pitt, is working your jug here. Now they'll go to the lawn.

[Cherokee]

Don't worry, Brush. We'll take care of them. Put ropes on both of them.

[Johnny Coates]

Are you dirty? Poor Stan.

[Cherokee]

Steel coats. Car. The old man put a gag on him and put ropes in the gag on Johnny.

[The Lone Ranger]

Right.

[Narrator]

Brush found ropes in the stable. Ben and Johnny were tied hand and foot and effectively gagged. Then they were lifted into the big freight wagon.

[Cherokee]

Close the tailgate here.

[Johnny Coates]

Now what, Cherokee?

[Cherokee]

I'll drive the wagon along the regular route. You plant the gold in the sacks in Colt's house and get our horses and follow me. I look for you, long war bonnet tree.

[Johnny Coates]

If anyone should see you driving up.

[Cherokee]

It's too early in the day for that. No one's around. I'll see you later.

[Johnny Coates]

Right.

[Cherokee]

Get up.

[Johnny Coates]

Get up there. Get up now.

[Narrator]

Shortly after, Cherokee left town driving the freight wagon with the two helpless men on board, Sheriff Bell prepared to renew his search for the thieves. He was saddling his horse when Julie came from the house.

[Julie Bell]

Starting out again, dad?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Yes, honey? We didn't have much luck last night. The crooks dumped the wagon into Stonewall Canyon. I'm going to try to find some tracks here and follow them.

[Julie Bell]

Are you going alone?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Yes.

[Julie Bell]

Well, good luck, dad, and be careful.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Thanks, Julie. Stevie, get up there.

[Narrator]

The sheriff's search was slow and tedious. At noon, he heard the sound of approaching hoops.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff, we're on our way to town to see you, mister.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I'm plenty glad you're here. I have a lot to tell you.

[Narrator]

Sheriff Bell quickly told his masked friend and Tonto of the robbery that had occurred at the railroad station the night before. He explained that the express guard and young Johnny Coates were the only men who had seen the thieves.

[The Lone Ranger]

Is Johnny Coates in Medicine Spring?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

He's probably with his uncle Ben. Planned to move freight to the mines today. Rick and the wagon? Somewhere along War Bunda Trail. Right now.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll try to overtake them. Unless you need help here.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Tadu's better at cutting the sign than I am. I'd be much obliged if he'd help me follow these tracks. Glad to help. Thanks, Tanu.

[The Lone Ranger]

Sheriff. I'll meet you both in town later. Adios.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Adio.

[The Lone Ranger]

Adios.

[Narrator]

It was mid afternoon when Cherokee turned the heavy freight wagon off the main trail. Brush rode alongside the wagon leading Cherokee's big gray horse. He drew rein when Cherokee halted the team in a secluded valley few people knew about.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ho.

[Cherokee]

Ho. Ho.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ho.

[Johnny Coates]

Ho.

[Julie Bell]

All right, I'm hitching.

[Johnny Coates]

Tee?

[Cherokee]

Yeah.

[Johnny Coates]

Steady. Then what?

[Cherokee]

And we're clearing out of here.

[Johnny Coates]

What about Johnny Coates and his uncle?

[Cherokee]

We leave them tied and gagged in the back of the wagon.

[Johnny Coates]

We can't do that, Cherokee. They might get free of those ropes. What if they do?

[Cherokee]

They'll have to walk back to town. It'll be a mighty long hike. Meantime, we'll start spreading a story around town that they've cleared out with a stolen gold. The sheriff will investigate.

[Johnny Coates]

I savor your scheme, Cherokee. As soon as the sheriff searches their place, he'll find the golden sacks I left there.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Right.

[Johnny Coates]

Only thing is, they'll tell the truth when they get to town.

[Cherokee]

Sure, but no one will believe them. By that time, we'll have them framed so tight they'll never get clear. Now give me a hand. We'll unhitch the horses and lead them away from here.

[Johnny Coates]

You planning to go back To Medicine Springs with Ben's team in tow.

[Cherokee]

Of course not. We'll turn them loose as soon as we're away from this valley.

[Johnny Coates]

Right. Wait til Barney Pitt hears about this.

[Cherokee]

Yeah. We'll go back to the railroad station in town and report to him. He's due for a big surprise.

[Narrator]

Brush and Cherokee unhitched the team and led it out of the valley. They left the animals several miles from the deserted wagon. Then they headed for town.

[Johnny Coates]

Get him.

[Cherokee]

Get him.

[Johnny Coates]

Hit him on. Get him.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger had been traveling hard to overtake the wagon. Shortly after Brush and Cherokee had left Ben's horses, the masked man sighted the animals. When he saw the dangling traces and harness gear, he followed their back trail. It was plain and easy to read. It led him directly to the wagon in the hidden valley. The letters on the high sides of the canvas topped vehicle identified it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ben Coates Freight Wagon.

[Johnny Coates]

Help.

[The Lone Ranger]

What help?

[Narrator]

The call for help came from inside the wagon. The Lone Ranger moved quickly to the tailgate. He opened it and saw Johnny and Ben.

[Johnny Coates]

Help us, mister. Cut these ropes and I. Oh, your mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

You needn't worry about my mask. I'll cut those ropes.

[Johnny Coates]

My wrists are nearly raw. I've been trying to loosen the ropes. I was lucky enough to work the gag out of my mouth. You all right, Uncle Ben?

[The Lone Ranger]

There, your hands and feet are free.

[Johnny Coates]

Gosh. Thanks, mister. I'll take the gag off my uncle's mouth while you cut his ropes.

[The Lone Ranger]

Are you Johnny Coates?

[Johnny Coates]

How'd you know my name?

[The Lone Ranger]

I've been looking for you and your uncle there, mister.

[Johnny Coates]

We're doggone lucky you found us. I'm much obliged to you for cutting those ropes.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Mask or no mask, you better rub.

[The Lone Ranger]

Your wrist to restore the circulation.

[Johnny Coates]

Good idea, mister. You said you were looking for us?

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I wanted to question you about the gold robbery at the railroad station last night. Now, I'd also like to know who tied you and left you here.

[Johnny Coates]

Same polecats who robbed the train. They're trying to frame us for the robberies.

[The Lone Ranger]

How long ago did they leave here?

[Johnny Coates]

I couldn't judge that. We've been tied so long I've lost track of time. He left the team loose then headed back to town.

[The Lone Ranger]

I found your horses and left them at ground hitch. You'll have no difficulty finding them if.

[Narrator]

You follow their tracks.

[Johnny Coates]

Do that, mister. Where are you going?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm going to follow the man who left you here.

[Johnny Coates]

I heard them say they were going to the railroad station to report to Barney Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks for the information. Steady, Silver Easy, big fellow. I'll send help from town.

[Johnny Coates]

We'll not need it. Soon as we get the team back, I'll hitch them and we'll head for Medicine Springs.

[The Lone Ranger]

I may see you there, Mon salva.

[Narrator]

When the sheriff had not returned to Medicine Springs by five o' clock that evening, Julie went to the railroad station hoping to get more information from Barney Pittsburgh. She entered the station and called.

[Julie Bell]

Mr. Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm in my office, Ms. Julie. If you want to see me, you.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Have to come in here.

[The Lone Ranger]

I can't leave the telegraph key.

[Julie Bell]

I didn't mean to interrupt you. I just wondered if there were anything new on last night's robbery.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, you'd better ask your father that question.

[Johnny Coates]

There.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's the end of the message.

[Julie Bell]

Was the message about the robbery?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, Miss Julie. It's merely a change in the eastbound schedule. Oh, I'm very busy, Ms. Julie.

[Julie Bell]

Someone came into the station, Mr. Pitt.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I heard them. Go see who it is.

[Julie Bell]

I'll watch the telegraph key for you.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's not necessary, boss.

[Cherokee]

Mr. Pitt, where are you?

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm coming. Just a minute.

[Narrator]

Barney Pitt recognized the voices of Brush and Cherokee. He hurried across his office and was about to close the door behind him so Julie, who was inside, would not have a chance to see him talking to the two hoodlums. Brush and Cherokee weren't aware of this in their eagerness to report the day's activities.

[Johnny Coates]

Boss, Johnny Colt's recognized us as the train robbers.

[Narrator]

Hold on, Brush.

[Cherokee]

It's the truth, Mr. Pitt. We've taken care of the kid and his uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

Shut up, Cherokee. What's wrong, you big mouthed idiots? What's the idea of coming here? I told you to come to my house after dark if you wanted to talk to me.

[Johnny Coates]

We thought you'd want to know how he framed Johnny and his uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

Shut up.

[Cherokee]

All right, if you say so, Mr.

[Johnny Coates]

Fit.

[Cherokee]

We'll have to act fast if we're going to spread a story about those two. That's why we came here.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, you chuckheads.

[Johnny Coates]

What's wrong? Come here.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll show you what's wrong.

[Julie Bell]

I heard what you said.

[Cherokee]

It's the sheriff's daughter.

[The Lone Ranger]

That's what I was trying to tell you. Now you'll have to commit a murder.

[Julie Bell]

Stay away from me.

[Johnny Coates]

Grab her.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Help. Help.

[Cherokee]

Put your hand over her mouth.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Help.

[Johnny Coates]

Fighting like a wildcat. Cherokee.

[The Lone Ranger]

Close the station door. Hold it to make sure no one comes in here. Right, boss.

[Johnny Coates]

Hey, you.

[The Lone Ranger]

It's too bad you heard so much, Ms. Julie.

[Johnny Coates]

Oh, she bit me.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

She.

[Johnny Coates]

Boss, Grab her arm so she can't claw my face.

[The Lone Ranger]

Cherokee. Cherokee. He's not available. Release that girl.

[Narrator]

Julie fell sobbing to the floor as Brush and Barney Pit whirled to face the masked man who had suddenly appeared in the doorway. The station agent and the hoodlum made fast grabs for their guns, but the Lone Rangers twin Colts were already in action. Silver bullets wing Barney and Brush.

[The Lone Ranger]

Speak up if you want more gunplay.

[Johnny Coates]

I arm your mask.

[The Lone Ranger]

That doesn't mean I'm on your side of the law.

[Julie Bell]

They're the train robbers. They've done something to Johnny Coates and his uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, I know, Ms. Julie. Johnny and his uncle are all right.

[Johnny Coates]

Julie.

[Julie Bell]

Dad. Oh, dad.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

These poor kiss hurt you?

[Julie Bell]

No, no, dad. I'm all right.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

But the.

[Julie Bell]

They were going to kill me.

[Johnny Coates]

Sheriff.

[The Lone Ranger]

Where did you come from?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Surprised to see me here, Pete? Well, you're not half as surprised as your friend Cherokee was. We got him when he stepped outside to bolt the door. He's on the station platform right now telling the masked man's friend Tonto all he knows.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now listen, Sheriff. Don't believe Cherokee. He's lying.

[Julie Bell]

You're the one who's lying, Barney Pitt, Those two hoodlums worked for you. I heard them call you boss. They came here to report that they'd taken care of Johnny Coates and his uncle.

[The Lone Ranger]

No, no.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You're finished, Barney. Say, Tonto, will you bring Cherokee in here?

[Julie Bell]

Dad, you and the masked man got here just in time. But how did you know I was here?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I didn't know that, honey. Tonto and I were following tracks. We were at the outskirts of town when the masked man came riding toward us. He told us to mount and follow him.

[Julie Bell]

Then he. He led you here?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Yes. We heard you scream for help. So we drew our guns and were set to come in shooting when Chirkee stepped outside. Say, mister, how'd you know what was happening here?

[The Lone Ranger]

Johnny told me these two were heading for Pitt's office.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

You get in there.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right. Cherokee. You stupid double crosser. Why didn't you warn us? Why didn't you let us know the law was closing in?

[Cherokee]

I didn't have a chance.

[Johnny Coates]

You didn't talk, did you, Cherokee?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Him talk plenty.

[Johnny Coates]

What even tell where we find loot from train robbery?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

We're finished brushing you right, Pete. You and your pals will be out of circulation for a long time. I'll see that the railroad hears the true facts of what happened. Johnny Coach will probably get his job back and a promotion.

[The Lone Ranger]

Besides, Otto, if you'll help the sheriff take the prisoners to jail. I'll ride to meet Johnny to tell him the good news.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Me help him. Kim.

[Johnny Coates]

Sally.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good enough. I'll see you later, Sheriff.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Right, missy.

[The Lone Ranger]

Adios.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Adios. Well, Barney, looks like you outsmarted yourself. What made you think you could get away with framing Johnny and his uncle?

[The Lone Ranger]

I wouldn't have tried to frame them, but I. Well, I thought you'd called outside help to work on the case.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

I did.

[The Lone Ranger]

If I'd known that masked man and the Indian were detectives in disguise.

[Julie Bell]

Detectives?

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

They're not disguised, Barney. This Indian is Tonto. And the masked man you tangled with is a Lone Ranger.

[The Lone Ranger]

It.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendle Campbell Muir Incorporated, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Striker. The part of the Lone Ranger is played by Brace Beame.

[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.

[Sheriff Edward Bell]

Sam.