The Turning Point | The Lone Ranger (05-07-52)

Summary

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Old Time Radio Westerns – “The Turning Point” | The Lone Ranger (05-07-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: October 22, 2025
Podcast Episode Overview

In this meticulously restored episode from The Lone Ranger (originally aired May 7, 1952), listeners are transported to the golden age of radio drama. “The Turning Point” tells an emotionally charged story of revenge, redemption, and family reconciliation, as Dave Andrews faces his past and the legendary Lone Ranger’s influence helps redirect the course of two troubled young men. Enhanced audio brings new clarity to the galloping hooves, tense confrontations, and heartfelt reunions that define this classic Western tale.

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Main Theme

At its heart, “The Turning Point” is about confronting one’s past and choosing a better path. Two ex-convicts—Dave Andrews, who seeks vengeance on the Lone Ranger for sending his father to the gallows, and Tony Hooker, his faithful friend—set out for revenge but find an unexpected opportunity when family, fate, and the Lone Ranger converge.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. Serving Justice and Wrestling with Revenge

• [05:14 – 07:33]
  Dave Andrews and Tony Hooker, both recently out of prison, are holed up in a cafe. Dave is obsessed with finding and killing the Lone Ranger, whom he blames for his incarceration and his father’s execution. Tony, seeking a new life, tries to dissuade him.
  • Quote [06:44]
    Tony Hooker: “I figure we’re both alone in the world. Sort of feel we’re at the turning point, you might say.”
• [07:33 – 09:44]
  The pair plots to ambush the Lone Ranger and his companion Tonto at their camp.

2. Confrontation at the Camp

• [09:44 – 12:33]
  Dave and Tony sneak up on the Lone Ranger and Tonto, catching them asleep. A tense standoff follows.
  • Quote [10:43]
    The Lone Ranger: “You’ve come here to kill us, is that it?”
  • The Lone Ranger counsels Dave against murder, trying to steer him away from making a fatal mistake.
  • Quote [11:08]
    The Lone Ranger: “If you kill, you’ll be hunted for murder. Hunted until you’re caught and finally hanged. Is that what you want, Andrews?”
• [12:33 – 13:19]
  The Lone Ranger and Tonto disarm them with quick thinking and mercy, letting them go free and giving Dave a chance to choose a better life.
  • Quote [12:54]
    The Lone Ranger: “I reckon we’re letting both of you go this time. I’m going to let you have that chance.”
  • Quote [13:00]
    Dave Andrews: “Maybe… maybe aim to shoot us in the back as we ride away.” The Lone Ranger: “Oh, no, Dave. We don’t shoot men in the back.”

3. A Family Secret and a Plan for Blackmail

• [13:46 – 15:39]
  Tony and Dave discuss their next step. Dave reveals he has a living grandmother—Mrs. Dennis, a wealthy ranch owner nearby—whom he intends to blackmail with his secret.
  • Quote [15:03]
    Dave Andrews: “I aim to make her pay me plenty so as I’ll not tell everybody her daughter’s husband was hung for murder.”

4. First Encounter with Mrs. Dennis

• [19:15 – 21:24]
  Dave visits Mrs. Dennis at her ranch, presenting proof of his mother’s identity with a locket, but is overcome by her kindness and stories of loss. He can’t go through with the blackmail.
  • Quote [21:15]
    Dave Andrews: “Well, I… I made a mistake, ma’am. Yeah, that’s it. I… I came to the wrong place. I’ll stop by another time. Goodbye, ma’am.”

5. A Heroic Fire and True Identity Revealed

• [22:11 – 27:41]
  A wildfire threatens the Dennis ranch. The Lone Ranger devises a daring plan to dynamite the mill dam and flood the valley to stop the fire.
  • Quote [24:25]
    The Lone Ranger: “I think we can stop that fire by blasting that mill dam. It would release enough water into the creek bed below.”
• Dave rescues the Lone Ranger’s nephew, Dan Reed, during the chaos, risking his life and being injured in the process.

6. Recognition, Forgiveness, and Redemption

• [27:25 – end]
  Inside the ranch house, Mrs. Dennis discovers Dave’s locket and realizes he is her grandson. An emotional reunion follows, with forgiveness and hope for the future.
  • Quote [28:35, Mrs. Dennis]: “Ada. That’s my daughter’s picture. I gave her that locket. But how did you—”
  • Tony Hooker: “Dave is your grandson, ma’am. His name is Dave Andrews.”
  • Quote [29:08]
    Mrs. Dennis: “I am mighty proud of my grandson. Mighty proud. Dave, as the masked man says, we’ll forget the past and think of the happy future in store for us.”
• Tony also finds a new start, as Mrs. Dennis offers him work on the ranch.
  • Quote [29:41]
    Tony Hooker: “Dave, I reckon this is a turning point for both of us.” Mrs. Dennis: “Why, of course you’ll stay on with Dave, since you’re his friend…”
• The Lone Ranger’s final impact is clear, having guided two young men toward redemption.
  • Quote [30:14–30:24]
    Dave Andrews: “He sort of brought Tony and me to the turning point that Tony speaks of and then showed us the right way to go. I’ll forget the past, all right. But believe me, Grandma, I’ll never forget the Lone Ranger.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “I figure we’re both alone in the world. Sort of feel we’re at the turning point, you might say.”
  – Tony Hooker, [06:44]
• “If you kill, you’ll be hunted for murder… hunted until you’re caught and finally hanged.”
  – The Lone Ranger, [11:08]
• “I aim to make her pay me plenty so as I’ll not tell everybody her daughter’s husband was hung for murder.”
  – Dave Andrews, [15:03]
• “I am mighty proud of my grandson. Mighty proud. Dave, as the masked man says, we’ll forget the past and think of the happy future in store for us.”
  – Mrs. Dennis, [29:08]
• “He sort of brought Tony and me to the turning point that Tony speaks of and then showed us the right way to go.”
  – Dave Andrews, [30:17]

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Key Timestamps for Important Segments

• The Set-Up & Motivation: [05:14–07:33]
• Ambush at the Camp: [09:44–12:33]
• The Lone Ranger’s Mercy: [12:33–13:19]
• Dave’s Plan to Blackmail Grandmother: [13:46–15:39]
• Emotional Encounter with Mrs. Dennis: [19:15–21:24]
• Fire at the Ranch, Dave’s Heroism: [22:11–27:41]
• Final Reconciliation & The Turning Point: [27:41–End]

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Tone & Style

The episode carries a classic Western tone: serious, direct, sometimes terse—but with moments of warmth and deep emotion, especially during the reunion and redemption scenes. The iconic presence of the Lone Ranger as a guide, judge, and savior infuses every act with moral gravity and hope.

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Conclusion

“The Turning Point” stands out as a quintessential Lone Ranger adventure, blending tense action, personal drama, and heartfelt salvation. Through powerful storytelling and restoration, classic themes of justice, the possibility of change, and the enduring bonds of family are given new life for modern listeners. The Lone Ranger, once again, rides away having steered lost souls onto a path of hope and honor.

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Transcript

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[Narrator]

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[Dave Andrews]

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 high of silver.

[Dave Andrews]

The Lone Ranger It's Sam.

[Sarah]

From the Cascades to PDX to your kitchen. We recycle like we live here. That's why governments, brands and recycling companies are all joining together to bring changes to make recycling better. As in trusting that your recyclables end up in the right places to be made into new things and having brands help fund the cost of recycling. You can find the Latest updates at recycleon.org Oregon From Mount Hood to the bin under your desk, Together we can do this.

[Narrator]

This faithful Indian companion, Tonto, 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 hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.

[The Lone Ranger]

Horse Silver.

[Tony Hooker]

Let's go, big fellow.

[Alex]

IO Silver.

[Dave Andrews]

Go away.

[Narrator]

Dave Andrews sat at a table in the Paker's Cafe with his eyes glued to the door. In spite of his 22 years, the pallor of his skin and the bitterness in his eyes made him seem almost as old as his rough looking 30 year old companion, Tony Hooker. Tony put down his glass and stared at his partner a moment. Then he spoke.

[Tony Hooker]

Listen, Dave, we've been coming here and sitting in this cafe day after day for a week. Why don't you give up this local idea of yours?

[Dave Andrews]

Tony, if I have to wait around here a month, I'm gonna do it until I see the hombre I'm waiting for. Two weeks ago, when I was leaving territorial prison, a new prisoner told me that that masked man and his Indian friend were in this territory. Sooner or later that Indian is going to come in here snooping.

[Tony Hooker]

From what I've heard, they're dynamite.

[Dave Andrews]

Partner, I told you why I'm out to get that mask.

[Tony Hooker]

Sure, sure. He was responsible for sending you to prison two years ago. And when your old man shot a sheriff a year or so ago, it was a Lone Ranger who caught him and turn him over to the law.

[Dave Andrews]

Yeah, and dad was hanged.

[Tony Hooker]

You're liable to wind up the same way, Dave, if you don't come to your senses.

[Dave Andrews]

I'm taking that chance. You're getting cold feet stringing along with me, Tony.

[Tony Hooker]

All right, isn't that. I did an eight year stretch in prison. You and I hit it off together when we were cellmates. A year before I got out. I promised you I'd meet you with a horse and a gun and we agreed we'd be partners.

[Dave Andrews]

That's right.

[Tony Hooker]

Only I figured you'd feel like I did. We'd be in the clear and have a chance to go straight. Why, it'd be easy for us to get jobs on Sunday.

[Dave Andrews]

You ought to take up preaching, Tony.

[Tony Hooker]

Oh, you got me wrong, Dave. I figure we're both alone in the world. Sort of feel we're at the turning point, you might say.

[Dave Andrews]

What do you mean?

[Tony Hooker]

Well, if you decided to head south and take up with the old gang, I'm with you. If you make up your mind to go straight, I'm with you on that too. Frankly, that's what I'd rather have us both do. I'm tired of running from the law.

[Dave Andrews]

You know why? I'm here and I'm going through with it.

[Tony Hooker]

Murder doesn't sit well with me when.

[Dave Andrews]

It comes to showdown. I'll handle things alone, so don't worry. After I settle with a masked man, there's something else I'm gonna do.

[The Lone Ranger]

What?

[Dave Andrews]

I'll tell you when the time comes, I mean. Tony, look. That's the engine. He was with the Lone Ranger when I was captured. A week of waiting has paid off.

[Tony Hooker]

Now what do we do?

[Dave Andrews]

We'll wait till he leaves. Then we'll pick up his trail and see where they're camped.

[Tony Hooker]

Just as you say, Dave. But I still say you're playing with dynamite.

[Narrator]

The Indian Dave had recognized was Toto, the Lone Ranger's companion. He stayed only a short time in the cafe, and after he left, Dave and Tony walked to the front window and watched him ride from town. It was not quite sundown as they went out and mounted.

[Dave Andrews]

We'll follow his trail, but we'll have to be careful to keep out of sight.

[Tony Hooker]

Yeah, that Indian's plenty smart.

[Dave Andrews]

Easy, boy. Stay there.

[Alex]

Come on.

[Dave Andrews]

Get him. Get him. Get it.

[Narrator]

The two men stayed some distance behind Toto so that they would not be seen. They noted where the Indian turned off the trail and headed for a woodland grove near the top of a low hill. But they didn't stop for fear they might have been observed on the trail. After they had gone out of sight around a bend, Dave pulled to a halt.

[Tony Hooker]

Ho.

[Dave Andrews]

Ho.

[Tony Hooker]

Ho.

[Dave Andrews]

Ho.

[Tony Hooker]

Ho.

[Dave Andrews]

I'm certain they must be camped in that wooded grove on that hill, Tony.

[Tony Hooker]

It looks that way. They must have seen us ride past.

[Dave Andrews]

What of it? We didn't stop, so they'll think we're just a couple of cowpokes going home from town or something like that.

[Tony Hooker]

What do we do next?

[Dave Andrews]

We'll wait among those trees yonder.

[Tony Hooker]

We'll wait for what?

[Dave Andrews]

Until dark, and a long time after that, too. Then when I figure they're both sleeping, we'll sneak up on them and surprise them.

[Tony Hooker]

You mean you'd plug them while they slip?

[Dave Andrews]

No, no. I want that masked man to know who does it and why.

[Tony Hooker]

Listen, Dave, like I said before, I don't want to get mixed up in a mo.

[Dave Andrews]

You're not going to get mixed up in it. You'll help me get the drop on him. But I'll do the shooting cruise if you want me to go alone.

[Tony Hooker]

No, no, no. I'll go with you.

[Dave Andrews]

All right, then. Now, let's ride back among those trees and wait till it's time to go Right.

[Tony Hooker]

Get up there.

[Dave Andrews]

Get him. Get up.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tonto had camped in the vicinity of Pecos to await the return of the Lone Ranger's nephew, Dan Reed, who had been to El Paso a few hours later. The Lone Ranger and Tonto had been sleeping for a short while when they were aroused by a warning whinny from the Great horse Silver. They awoke simultaneously to see two figures in the moonlight standing close to them, holding guns.

[Alex]

All right.

[Dave Andrews]

Please, we got you both covered.

[The Lone Ranger]

Well, Toto, seems that we have company.

[Dave Andrews]

Better be serious, mister, and careful. We mean business.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, I see.

[Dave Andrews]

Watching both of you closely. All right, get to your feet. But keep your hands away from your guns.

[Tony Hooker]

Susie says toto, I'm ready to shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

Now what?

[Narrator]

Dave stepped closer to the masked man and foolishly tilted his face toward the moonlight as he stood barely a foot away.

[Dave Andrews]

Then he said, the moon is bright. Take a good look, mister. Remember me?

[The Lone Ranger]

I can't say that I do.

[Dave Andrews]

You had me sent to prison two years ago. My dad was hanged because of you. After that.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, you must be the Andrews boy. Dave Andrews.

[Dave Andrews]

So you do remember.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good.

[Dave Andrews]

I wanted to tell you what I'm gonna do to you in the engine.

[The Lone Ranger]

You've come here to kill us, is that it?

[Dave Andrews]

That's it. Keep your gun on that redskin, Tony.

[Tony Hooker]

Yeah, sure.

[The Lone Ranger]

I have him covered right now, Dave, you're clear with the law? Your father killed a man in cold blood. He knew the penalty he'd have to pay for that. But you have a chance to live a decent life. Why spoil it?

[Dave Andrews]

Don't try to talk me out of this.

[Tony Hooker]

Hey, Dave, maybe.

[Dave Andrews]

Shut up, Tony. You know what I came to do. I've waited for this chance.

[The Lone Ranger]

You're still young. If you kill, you'll be hunted for murder. Hunted until you're caught and finally hanged. Is that what you want, Andrew?

[Dave Andrews]

Shut up. Shut up, you hear? I swore to find you.

[Narrator]

Dave, seemingly upset by the Lone Ranger's words, momentarily stopped talking and glanced as if for support at Tony, who stood close to Tonto. The Lone Ranger, whom Tonto was watching closely, suddenly went into action. One hand slammed down hard on the gun Dave held and the masked man's other hand swung a strong side blow to Dave's chin.

[The Lone Ranger]

Give me that gun.

[Narrator]

The action by the masked man in Indian had taken Dave and Tonto by surprise. Before they could avoid it, their guns were in the hands of the men they had come to shoot.

[The Lone Ranger]

All right, Andrews, get up. We have the guns.

[Dave Andrews]

Now you raise hands.

[Tony Hooker]

Sure, sure.

[Dave Andrews]

I don't Savvy?

[Tony Hooker]

I warned you they were tied to my Dave.

[Dave Andrews]

The way you talked, you took me off guard. Well, I reckon I've made a mess of it. Tony, I'm sorry I got you into this.

[Tony Hooker]

Oh, forget it, partner. Maybe it's better this way. Another stretch in prison is better than a rope anyway.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll take the bullets from your gun. Do the same with that one. Tutor. Here, Andrews, take back your gun and holstered. Here, yours.

[Dave Andrews]

What are you gonna do?

[The Lone Ranger]

Where are your horses?

[Tony Hooker]

You left them down there among the trees.

[The Lone Ranger]

We'll go there with you. Start walking.

[Narrator]

A short time later, Dave and Tony stood beside their horses. Both of them looked at the Lone Ranger, wondering what came next.

[The Lone Ranger]

Andrews, you're not a killer. I doubt that you'd have gone through with it.

[Tony Hooker]

I tried to get him to forget the whole thing, but he was sort of local about getting revenge.

[The Lone Ranger]

I told you before, you were clear with the law and had the chance to live a decent life.

[Dave Andrews]

Well, that's finished now.

[The Lone Ranger]

I reckon we're letting both of you go this time. I'm going to let you have that chance.

[Tony Hooker]

Holy mackerel.

[Dave Andrews]

Maybe. Maybe aim to shoot us in the back as we ride away.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, no, Dave. We don't shoot men in the back.

[Tony Hooker]

That's right, Dave. I know that's true about him.

[The Lone Ranger]

Mount and leave. But remember this. If you ever try to gun us again, I'll do my best to take you in for attempted murder. Now get out of here.

[Dave Andrews]

Easy, boy.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Steady.

[Tony Hooker]

Get it.

[Dave Andrews]

Come on.

[Tony Hooker]

Get him. Get it.

[Narrator]

Them ride plenty fast.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes. I noticed Dave Andrews hand shaking as he held his gun on me at camp. Perhaps by giving him another chance, we've taught him a lesson. Well, let's get back to the grove.

[Narrator]

Still somewhat bewildered by the turn of events, Dave and Tony returned to the cafe. Dave said little until Tony finally asked.

[Tony Hooker]

Well, Dave, reckon that changed things plenty. What are we gonna do now?

[Dave Andrews]

I reckon I'll have to forget about settling with the master.

[Tony Hooker]

I stop thinking about it. What do we do next?

[Dave Andrews]

There's something else I came here to do, Tony. Ed wrote me a letter before he. Well, before he died. Seems my mother was the daughter of a rich Ranger. When she married dad, her father turned against her. Dad took mom to Duff Creek to live.

[Tony Hooker]

Well, then what?

[Dave Andrews]

While I was still a little shaver, Indians burned us out and killed Mom.

[Tony Hooker]

Sure was tough.

[Dave Andrews]

Yeah. Yeah, dad brought me up. From then on, her folks knew we escaped the Injuns, but that's all. Mom's father died, but dad wrote that Mom's mother is living on the ranch they own just a few miles from Pecos. That's right here.

[Tony Hooker]

You mean you have a rich grandmother living near here?

[Dave Andrews]

Yeah, yeah, she owns the dentist spread. And Tony. I aim to make her pay me plenty so as I'll not tell everybody her daughter's husband was hung for murder.

[Tony Hooker]

Hey, I reckon the old lady wouldn't want folks to know her son in law got hung and her grandson was in prison. Maybe you better forget.

[Dave Andrews]

There you go again. I see a chance to get enough cash for us to get a good start and you try to ruin it. I was right about to.

[Tony Hooker]

Do what you want. How you aiming to go about it?

[Dave Andrews]

A ride to the dinner spread in the morning. I figure the old lady will pay plenty for me to leave this territory and keep my mouth shut.

[Narrator]

At dawn the following morning, the stage from El Paso arrived in Pecos. When the coach door opened, Dan Reed, the Lone Ranger's teenage nephew, got out first and turned and helped an elderly lady to alight.

[Dave Andrews]

Careful, Mrs. Dennis.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I declare, Danny, you made me forget what a hard trip it was. Why you've been so attentive. I feel mighty flattered.

[Dave Andrews]

I enjoyed talking with you.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I want you to come out maybe tomorrow to see me at the Bardee spread. I have a pair of silver spurs I want you to have. They used to belong to my husband when he was young. You've been so kind. I'd like you to have them.

[Dave Andrews]

Oh, golly, that'd be fine, but I'm meeting friends and we're leaving here this afternoon. Oh, dear.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Well, then come out before you go. Just for a short visit. It'll please me so much. Now, promise you'll come.

[Dave Andrews]

All right, Mrs. Dennis. I'm sure it can be arranged.

[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.

[Dave Andrews]

I don't know what to do. I'm always in the dark.

[Mrs. Dennis]

The sweat and dance.

[Dave Andrews]

So it smells like a dark.

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[Narrator]

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[Dave Andrews]

Sam.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. It was just before noon when Dave Andrews and Tony turned in at the entrance to the Dennis ranch house.

[Tony Hooker]

Dave, this is a mighty fine spray. You suppose your old man was making up all that stuff about Mrs. Dennis being your grandmother? If she asked for proof, how could you?

[Dave Andrews]

Ever since I was a youngster, I've worn a locket under my shirt. A gold locket with a picture of mom in it. That ought to be proof enough. The old lady will recognize her own daughter's picture. You stay here like a mark.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Well, young man.

[Dave Andrews]

Howdy, ma'. Am. I'd like to talk private to you about something important.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Oh, of course. Come right in.

[Dave Andrews]

Well, thanks.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Now, you sit right down, young man, and make yourself comfortable.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Be clear, I'm not as young as I used to be. This easy chair feels mighty good.

[Dave Andrews]

Yes, and like I said, I want to talk now.

[Mrs. Dennis]

There I go, forgetful of my manners. You brought a friend with you, and I should have asked him in, too.

[Alex]

Oh, no, he.

[Dave Andrews]

He wanted to wait out there. Oh.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Well, what's your name, young man?

[Dave Andrews]

Why, it. It's Dave. Dave.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Mercy sakes. I had a daughter who married a man by that name, Dave Andrews. I liked him so much, but my husband didn't.

[Dave Andrews]

Oh, you've. You liked your daughter's husband?

[Mrs. Dennis]

Yes, of course, but they had to run away to be married. Ada never came back, and I wasn't allowed to visit her or write to her. It near broke my heart. Then she. She was killed by Indians, and her husband disappeared with their little son.

[Dave Andrews]

But look, Mrs. Dennis, I have got.

[Mrs. Dennis]

You know, that was 20 years ago. My husband died not long after we heard about Ada. What was it you wanted to say to me, son?

[Dave Andrews]

Well, I. I made a mistake, ma'. Am. Yeah. Yeah, that's it. I. I came to the wrong place. I. I'll stop by another time. Goodbye, ma'. Am.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Goodbye, Dave.

[Tony Hooker]

Well, how to meet you.

[Dave Andrews]

Shut up and let's get away from here. Easy, boy.

[Alex]

Come on, get up.

[Tony Hooker]

Get up. Get up.

[Narrator]

That afternoon, Dan Reed visited Mrs. Dennis as he had promised. She presented him with the silver spurs and was pleased as he examined them eagerly.

[Dave Andrews]

Golly, these are beauties. Oh, Thanks a lot, Mrs. Dennis.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I'm glad you like them.

[Dave Andrews]

Are you sure you want me to have them, man? Oh, of course.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Daniel, I'm sorry you and your friends are leaving Pecos so soon. I wonder what Alex, my foreman, wants.

[Alex]

Mrs. Dennis.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Alex, what's the matter?

[Alex]

Very fire, ma'.

[Dave Andrews]

Am.

[Alex]

Got A head start and moving this way.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Land sakes.

[Alex]

Ah, the bell'll bring all the hands. But we need more help than that. I'll ride the Pecos and bring back all the men I can get.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Oh, goodness. Look, Daniel. I can see heavy smoke through the west window.

[The Lone Ranger]

Golly.

[Dave Andrews]

It might get to the house and Barnes. I'm going after my friends. I'm sure they'll help.

[Alex]

They aren't far from here.

[Dave Andrews]

Come on, Victor.

[Narrator]

The ranch was close to town, and many of the townsmen, including Dave and Tony, came to the dentist spread to help before Dan returned with the Lone Ranger and Toto. The men did their best to beat back the flames, but in spite of their efforts, the fire crept closer to the buildings. Mrs. Dennis stood on the back porch of the ranch house when the foreman rode by.

[Alex]

Ho, ho, ho, Mrs. Dennis.

[Dave Andrews]

It looks hopeless.

[Alex]

It'll soon reach the big barn and the other buildings, including the house.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Oh, it's terrible, Alex. But don't let them take any chances. I don't want anyone hurt.

[Alex]

Here comes more help. It's a boy with a mask man.

[The Lone Ranger]

And an Indian.

[Narrator]

Easy, Scott, easy.

[Alex]

You're covered, mister.

[The Lone Ranger]

Blow away your gun. Forget the mask. Come to help fight the fire we daily trust.

[Mrs. Dennis]

That's Daniel. I trust those men since he brought them here. Now, you put away your gun.

[Alex]

Well, all right, but you can't help much, mister. Fire has a good start on us, and before long it'll reach the big barn and the house.

[The Lone Ranger]

Perhaps we can find some way to keep the fire from reaching the house and barn.

[Dave Andrews]

Sure hope so, Alex.

[Mrs. Dennis]

If you or the masked man should think of something, go ahead and try it without bothering to ask me first.

[The Lone Ranger]

Thanks, Mrs. Dennis. Alex, let's get to the barn and look over the situation. Dan, stay here where you'll be safe.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Yes, sir.

[The Lone Ranger]

Come on, Alex. Hurry.

[Narrator]

A short time later, the Lone Ranger and Alex stopped behind the barn. The land sloped downward from the barn into a valley, at the foot of which there was a small stream. To the left, where the valley narrowed considerably, the masked man noticed a concrete dam built to give water power to a mill which stood beside it. A large mill pond had formed behind the dam. The Lone Ranger spoke.

[The Lone Ranger]

Alex, the fire is still on the other side of the small stream at the bottom of the valley.

[Alex]

Yeah, but that trickle of water won't stop it.

[The Lone Ranger]

Do you have any dynamite handy? Yes, sir.

[Alex]

We moved it from the shed where it was and to a safer place.

[Dave Andrews]

Why?

[The Lone Ranger]

I think we can stop that fire by blasting that mill dam. It would Release enough water into the creek bed below.

[Dave Andrews]

Yeah, sure.

[Alex]

That's an old mill. We've been planning to tear it down anyway. Build a new one.

[The Lone Ranger]

Good. We haven't much time. We'll have to blast that dam right away.

[Dave Andrews]

All right.

[Alex]

We'll get plenty of fuse and dynamite. Let's go.

[Narrator]

Working against time, the Lone Ranger and Alex took dynamite to the mill dam and prepared it with a long fuse. Then the foreman rode to the group with which Dave Andrews and his friend Tony were working.

[The Lone Ranger]

Ho.

[Alex]

Ho, there.

[Dave Andrews]

Ho.

[Alex]

You men, move back up the slope near the barn house. Come away from here. Aren't you gonna try to keep back the fire?

[Dave Andrews]

No.

[Alex]

The fire will reach the bank of the creek in a matter of minutes. We planted dynamite at the mill dam hoping to flood the bottom of the valley enough to stop the fire. Now, the fuse will be lit in a few minutes, so you better leave here right away.

[Narrator]

The men carrying their firefighting equipment crossed the stream and started up the slope toward the barn. Suddenly, one of them pointed and spoke.

[Alex]

Look. Going down the slope and heading over toward the mill.

[Dave Andrews]

It's a colt.

[Tony Hooker]

Hey, there's a boy chasing after him. That dam blows, they'll be in trouble.

[Alex]

Hey, youngster, go back. Don't go near that dam.

[Dave Andrews]

Reckon he didn't hear you? I'll go after him.

[Narrator]

Meantime, Dan Reed, who had followed the colt, finally caught up to it.

[Dave Andrews]

Go back, fella. Go back. Oh, my ankle.

[Alex]

The colt's gone back up the slope.

[Dave Andrews]

You're too close to that damage now. What's the matter? The colt's hope hit my ankle. It'll soon be all right. It sure hurts. Look, son, they've lit the fuse to blow up the dam. You're too close. You gotta get away from here. Golly, I didn't know about. Come on, I'll help you.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I can't step on it.

[Dave Andrews]

Lean on me. Come on, run.

[Alex]

Run. Your boom. It'll blow up in a minute.

[Dave Andrews]

I can't. You go on. I'll stick with you, youngster. I'll carry you. Oh, I'm too heavy. We'll both be caught. I'll worry about that.

[Alex]

Hurry, or you won't make it.

[Dave Andrews]

Now I got you. It's tough going uphill, but we'll make it. Hang on.

[Alex]

We'll help.

[Dave Andrews]

He hit his head against this log. Help.

[The Lone Ranger]

Oh, Silver. Oh, you just send a big. I'll lift you to saddle. Dan.

[Dave Andrews]

That man, he tried to save me.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'll put him on Silver in front of you. Hold him on. Here he is.

[Narrator]

Get Up.

[Alex]

Go on, Silver.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Go on.

[Narrator]

The great horse Silver carried Dan and the unconscious form of Dave Andrews to the back porch of the house. The Lone Ranger, running desperately to avoid flying debris from the explosion at the dam, managed to escape with a few minor scratches. He soon reached the group around Silver.

[Alex]

There he is. He got him away just in time.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Yes, and the explosion released enough water into the valley to stop the fire. Squire. Are you hurt, mister?

[The Lone Ranger]

No, I'm all right. We better take Dan and the unconscious man into the house.

[Mrs. Dennis]

That young man needs attention. He did such a brave thing trying to help Dan.

[The Lone Ranger]

Yes, he has my thanks. Let's get them inside.

[Narrator]

Dan and young Andrews were both carried into the house. Dan sat in a chair, but Dave Andrews was placed on a couch in the living room. The Lone Ranger recognized Dave, but said nothing. And when Mrs. Dennis brought water and bandages, the masked man gave the unconscious man first aid.

[The Lone Ranger]

He received a bad knock on the head.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Poor boy. He came here this morning by mistake, looking for another place. I loosen his shirt and then I. Land sakes, look there. A gold locket around his neck on a thin gold chain.

[The Lone Ranger]

The boy.

[Dave Andrews]

What happened?

[The Lone Ranger]

It's all right. Take it easy.

[Dave Andrews]

Were you the masked man?

[Mrs. Dennis]

This masked man saved both you and the boy. Son, tell me that. That locket. Where did you get.

[Dave Andrews]

Was my mother's. Her picture is inside.

[Mrs. Dennis]

May I open it? I must see it.

[Dave Andrews]

Well, all right, ma'. Am.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I must be sure. Ada. That's my daughter's picture. I gave her that locket. But how did you.

[Tony Hooker]

Dave is your grandson, ma'.

[Dave Andrews]

Am.

[Tony Hooker]

His name is Dave Andrews.

[Mrs. Dennis]

My. My grandson. Oh, Dave. Why didn't you tell me this morning when you came here?

[Dave Andrews]

Well, I. I decided not to let you know. I came to this territory for two reasons. To find the masked man.

[The Lone Ranger]

Because I'm. I'm sure your grandmother isn't interested in the past. It's best to forget something.

[Dave Andrews]

Thanks, mister. Thanks a lot.

[The Lone Ranger]

I think your grandmother is proud of the way you tried to save Dan. It proves you're made of fine stuff.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I am mighty proud of my grandson. Mighty proud. Dave, as the masked man says, will forget the past and think of the happy future in store for us.

[The Lone Ranger]

I'm sure Dave will make a fine rancher. Then it's time for us to go. Before we leave the territory, we'll stop by to see Mrs. Dennis and Dave once again. Papa's waiting for us outside.

[Mrs. Dennis]

I'll have my grandson run the ranch from now on. I hope you'll stop to see us whenever you come this way.

[The Lone Ranger]

Of course, Mrs. Dennis. Adios. Adios, everybody.

[Tony Hooker]

Dave, I reckon this is a turning point for both of us. I figure maybe your grandmother will give me a job here.

[Mrs. Dennis]

Why, of course you'll stay on with Dave, since you're his friend. You've probably done so many things together in the past.

[Tony Hooker]

Yes, ma'.

[Dave Andrews]

Am.

[Tony Hooker]

But like the masked man said, let's forget the past. I know that's what I'm gonna do.

[Dave Andrews]

Thanks, Tony.

[Mrs. Dennis]

That mask man helped us so much. He saved your life and told us what to do to save the ranch house. Who is he, Dave? Have you ever seen him before?

[Dave Andrews]

Oh, yes. Yes, we've seen him before. He sort of brought Tony and me to the turning point that Tony speaks of and then showed us the right way to go. I'll forget the past, all right. But believe me, Grandma, I'll never forget the Lone Ranger.

[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 Stryker. 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 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 Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.