Traitor in the Fold | The Lone Ranger (08-18-50)

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Traitor in the Fold | The Lone Ranger (08-18-50)"

Introduction to the Episode

In the "Traitor in the Fold" episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhines presents a riveting installment of the classic The Lone Ranger series. Released on March 5, 2025, this episode transports listeners back to the golden age of radio Westerns, meticulously restored for enhanced audio clarity. The story unfolds in the rugged terrains of the early western United States, where justice and betrayal intertwine in a gripping narrative of survival and honor.

The Wagon Train's Journey and Internal Tensions

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and his faithful companion, Tonto, observing a sizable wagon train making its way across the prairie toward the Pecos Valley—a region recently plagued by Apache raids. Aware of the potential dangers, the Lone Ranger (timestamp [03:47]) decides to follow the wagon train to ensure their safety, emphasizing his role as a protector of law and order:

Lone Ranger [03:48]: "They may run into trouble. The Apaches have been making raids throughout the valley during the past two weeks."

As the wagon train sets up camp for the night, tensions surface among its leaders. Jed Rector, the train's master, addresses the group, highlighting the precariousness of their journey despite nearing its end. However, it's Tonto's intervention that sows discord within the camp. He confronts Jed and Rusty Drake, accusing them of fostering undue fear and undermining the group's morale (timestamps [04:47]–[07:32]):

Tonto [04:56]: "I want to warn you. A lot can happen in those three days. So don't be getting too confident that all our troubles are behind us."

The confrontation escalates, revealing that Tonto and Rusty have grown disillusioned with Jed's leadership. Their grievances culminate in their expulsion from the wagon train (timestamps [07:32]–[07:56]), labeling them as troublemakers. This pivotal moment sets the stage for the ensuing betrayal.

The Outlaws' Betrayal and Plotting

Following their removal from the wagon train, Tonto and Rusty Drake devise a plan to seize the wagon train's valuables. They reveal their collaboration with Muggs Delroy in Pecos and outline a scheme to ambush the wagons near the Pecos River (timestamps [08:23]–[09:35]):

Rusty Drake [17:55]: "We take the cash boxes and any valuables we find in the wagons. They get the horses after the people are done for."

Their alliance with Lightfeather, a renegade chief leading a band of outlaws, further solidifies their intent to disrupt the wagon train. The plan involves leveraging the ongoing Apache unrest to mask their criminal activities, aiming to rob the pioneers as they vulnerablely approach the river crossing.

Lone Ranger and Tonto's Investigation

Meanwhile, the Lone Ranger and Tonto remain vigilant, continuously monitoring the wagon train's progress. One night, they detect unusual hoofbeats approaching their campsite, prompting immediate suspicion of an impending threat (timestamps [08:34]–[10:00]). Deciding to investigate, they saddle their horses and return to the wagon train camp.

Upon their return, they inform Jed Rector of the potential danger, urging caution and increased vigilance (timestamps [14:02]–[15:02]). Despite Jed's initial skepticism, the Lone Ranger's insistence lays the groundwork for collaborative defense against the looming threat.

Planning the Ambush at the Pecos River

As the wagon train prepares to cross the Pecos River, tensions rise within the camp. Jed Rector expresses both relief and lingering distrust towards Tonto and Rusty, underscoring the fragile alliances within the group (timestamps [18:45]–[19:11]). The Lone Ranger and Tonto, foreseeing the impending ambush, devise a strategy to warn the pioneers and coordinate with local troopers.

The following day, positioned strategically near the riverbank, the Lone Ranger and Tonto wait for the wagon train to enter the valley between two slopes—a prime location for an ambush (timestamps [20:02]–[21:31]). Understanding the tactical advantage of this terrain, the Lone Ranger plans to intercept the attack and neutralize the threat.

The Final Confrontation and Resolution

As the wagon train commences its river crossing, Lone Ranger's timely intervention proves pivotal. Jed Rector and his men are caught off guard by the ambush orchestrated by Sid Hooker and Rusty Drake, who lead the renegade Indians in the attack (timestamps [22:01]–[24:39]). A fierce battle ensues, with the Lone Ranger and Tonto skillfully fending off the attackers while assisting the wagon train's defense.

Key moments include the Lone Ranger's strategic advice to the pioneers:

Lone Ranger [25:30]: "I came to help. Jed. I suggest you get everybody into the wagon. The men can shoot under the canvas. Hurry."

The arrival of troopers from Fort Stockton signifies the turning point, as they encircle and capture the renegade outlaws, effectively thwarting the ambush (timestamps [25:43]–[27:21]). In the aftermath, Jed Rector acknowledges the Lone Ranger's crucial role in saving the wagon train, leading to the revelation of the Lone Ranger's true identity from his masked guise.

Jed Rector [27:48]: "Yeah, gone without waiting for thanks either."

The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the Lone Ranger's dedication to upholding justice and aiding those in need, solidifying his legacy as the unwavering champion of the Wild West.

Notable Quotes

• Lone Ranger [03:48]: "They may run into trouble. The Apaches have been making raids throughout the valley during the past two weeks."

• Tonto [04:56]: "I want to warn you. A lot can happen in those three days. So don't be getting too confident that all our troubles are behind us."

• Rusty Drake [17:55]: "We take the cash boxes and any valuables we find in the wagons. They get the horses after the people are done for."

• Lone Ranger [25:30]: "I came to help. Jed. I suggest you get everybody into the wagon. The men can shoot under the canvas. Hurry."

• Jed Rector [27:48]: "Yeah, gone without waiting for thanks either."

These quotes encapsulate the episode's themes of vigilance, betrayal, and heroism, highlighting the complex dynamics between characters and the Lone Ranger's pivotal role in restoring order.

Conclusion

"Traitor in the Fold" masterfully intertwines elements of suspense, betrayal, and heroism, delivering a compelling narrative that honors the legacy of The Lone Ranger. Through its vivid storytelling and enhanced audio production, the episode not only entertains but also immerses listeners in the timeless struggles and triumphs of the Wild West. Whether revisiting the classic tales or experiencing them anew, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of old-time radio Westerns.

Transcript

[Lone Ranger]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.

[Narrator]

A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hio. Silver the Lone Ranger, with his faithful Indian companion Tottle, the daring and resourceful masked rider of the plains led the fight for law and order in the early western United States. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days of yesteryear. From out of the past come the thundering hoofbeats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again. The Lone Ranger and Tottle rode the trail near Silverton. They reached a plateau and stopped to look out over the far reaching prairie.

[Tonto]

Look, Kingotube. Big wagon train come cross prairie.

[Lone Ranger]

It is a big one, Toto. Must be about 15 or 20 wagons in all.

[Tonto]

Isn't that right?

[Lone Ranger]

They're going on toward the Pecos Valley. They may run into trouble. The Apaches have been making raids throughout the valley during the past two weeks.

[Tonto]

Isn't that right?

[Lone Ranger]

I decided we'll follow along with that wagon train just in case. We'll scout ahead of them to make sure they aren't heading for trouble.

[Tonto]

That good idea.

[Lone Ranger]

All right. Let's go, Mont.

[Tonto]

Come on.

[Narrator]

All that day, the snake like wagon train with its billowing canvases and straining horses moved slowly across the prairie. At dusk, the wagons were drawn into a big circle and things were made ready for the night. After supper, the pioneers gathered around a big campfire to relax a bit after the tedious day that had passed. Jed Rector, master of the train, strode into the glow of the fire and standing on a box, raised his hands to quiet the group.

[Tonto]

Quiet down, everybody. I got something to say to you. We came a mighty long way. Our journey's almost ended. We're not out of danger by a long shot. So far we've been mighty lucky. Our trail scout tells me we got about three days journey before we reach the Pecos River. I'll wait a minute twice a minute. I know three days don't seem much of anything after all the time we've taken to get this far. I want to warn you. A lot can happen in those three days. So don't be getting too confident that all our troubles are behind us. I've been noticing that some of you are getting a bit lax about standing guard at Night and things like that. Now listen, gent. Seems to me you keep the folks warm when there isn't any cause. Me and my partner join this train and we've taken your orders up to now. But after almost reaching the end of our journey, you're going too far and trying to scare the daylights out of everybody whenever you get the chance.

[Jed Rector]

Why is it every time my Jed tries to do what he's supposed to do, you have to butt in with your two cents? You and that lazy partner of yours, Rusty Drake, got this far with a whole skin because of the way Jed led the wagon train.

[Tonto]

That's telling them, Mag.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah, them two get on a lots of work, Hooker.

[Tonto]

Frankly, we didn't want you and Drake to join up with this outfit. But we finally let you. Every time there's hard work to be done, neither one of you are around. I noticed that this evening when we made camp. The fact is, I'd like to know just where both of you went to. That's none of your business. But I don't mind telling you, Jed, Rusty and I rode ahead to look over the trail we're taking in the morning. We have a couple of hired scouts to do that. And in spite of your ornery way of acting, I feel I'm responsible for getting you both through safe. If you happen to run into an Indian party and get scalped, it'll be your own fault if you leave the train. That's our lookout. We can take care of ourselves.

[Rusty Drake]

That's right. Sid and me are old enough to.

[Tonto]

Know what we're doing.

[Jed Rector]

You shut up, Rusty Drake. Nobody asked you to come around here yapping, far as I can see. I don't know why Jed don't tell you to go ahead on your own. Neither one of you brought a wagon along. And you haven't done any garden like you should have either.

[Tonto]

Why, Thunder? We've been taking order some, Jed, but we don't have to take that billowing from you. Magic Rusty is willing. I'm ready right now to leave the train and go on our own. That suits me, Sid. Come on, let's get our horses and leave. Sure, let the others listen to Chet and Mag do the clapping. We don't have to. Let's go.

[Jed Rector]

Well, I say good riddance, Ched. Those two are troublemakers and we're better off without them.

[Tonto]

Yes, maybe you're right. All right, folks, forget the little happening and get back to enjoying yourselves. But be sure you don't let down your guard till we reach where we're heading.

[Narrator]

Sid and Rusty left the wagon train and rode along the trail ahead at a leisurely pace. The moon was shining brightly. They talked as they rode.

[Tonto]

Well, we finally got a good excuse for breaking loose in that wagon train.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah.

[Rusty Drake]

I was beginning to wonder how we were going to do it without causing suspicion.

[Tonto]

A lot of cash in that train. Practically all of them. Brought along all their savings, right?

[Rusty Drake]

I know Jed and Meg had plenty. Sold out a big store in St. Louis before they left.

[Tonto]

You think Muggs Delroy got that letter you sent him in Pegasus?

[Rusty Drake]

There's no reason why he shouldn't have. After he lit out from St. Louis because of the law, he wrote me from Pecos. Said if we came out that way, we might pull some jobs together.

[Tonto]

Ah. What did you tell him in your letter?

[Rusty Drake]

I told him we were planning to come out with Jed's wagon train with lots of cash in it. That we'd leave the train on some excuse and make time for Pecos to meet him. Then we could plan something against the train and carry it through before it reached the Pecos River.

[Tonto]

In that case, let's make better time than this. Let's get moving. Get it up. Hobble.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Toto had camped that night a few miles ahead of the wagon train in a sheltered grove. They had rolled into their blankets to sleep when they heard fast hoofbeats on the trail that passed nearby. The Lone Ranger sat up and listened.

[Lone Ranger]

Are you awake?

[Tonto]

Me? Here. Hoof beats on trail.

[Lone Ranger]

They're coming from the direction of the wagon train. I'll stand up. Maybe I can see them through the trees as they pass.

[Narrator]

Pretty bright.

[Tonto]

Two riders. Kimasabi?

[Lone Ranger]

Yes. I heard one call the other Sid. Wonder what's their hurry?

[Tonto]

Need not know.

[Lone Ranger]

Let's saddle the horses and ride back toward the wagon train camp. I want to make sure things are all right there.

[Tonto]

That's a good idea.

[Lone Ranger]

We get horses.

[Narrator]

When the Lone Ranger and Tottle reached the trail and started back toward the wagon train, Toto pointed and spoke.

[Tonto]

Trail. Two galloping horses. Easy to seek in the savvy.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll backtrack on them and find out. Definitely if they did come from the wagon train. They did. I'm curious to know why they left during the night.

[Tonto]

Them riding too hard for trained scouts.

[Lone Ranger]

That's right. The scouts would be more cautious. All right, let's hurry.

[Tonto]

Town.

[Narrator]

At the wagon train camp, Jed Rector was on guard with one of the scouts. Suddenly, the scout pointed to the top of a rise in the rolling prairie and spoke.

[Tonto]

Here you Look, Jed. Across the prairie, on top of that rise. Couple of horsemen.

[Rusty Drake]

Looks like Gee Wound.

[Tonto]

He's bright enough to see one of them's a redskin. That's right.

[Rusty Drake]

Take the other one out.

[Tonto]

Very clear. But you can see that white horse plate.

[Narrator]

Enough.

[Tonto]

You think maybe they're Indian scouts? I don't know. As soon as they leave Hank and me, I'll trail them and see where they go. Gee, they've turned and going out of shade. Good. I'll get Hank. We'll get our horses and go over there and pick up the tracks.

[Narrator]

After the Lone Ranger and Tottle left the rise and started back to their camp, the two wagon train scouts picked up their trail and followed.

[Tonto]

Better keep close watch, Hank. You don't ride into an ambush. Yeah, I'm watching. So far I haven't seen any sign that says a lot of Indians are around. Neither have I, but I don't like the idea of them two spying on us. That's right. I'd say they were up to something. Hey, wait a minute. Your trail turns off here. Let's stop the tracks. Head for that grove back over there. Yeah, let's sneak over there on foot. Come on. Have your gun handy. We'll find out what they're up to.

[Narrator]

In their camp. The Lone Ranger had just finished taking the gear off Scout and Silver. As they prepare to spread their sleeping blankets on the ground, the great horse Silver whinnied and pawed the dirt.

[Tonto]

Keep us up, Silver. Give warning.

[Lone Ranger]

Walk over those low boulders, Tato. Then get down quickly. Come on.

[Narrator]

Just as the masked man and the Indian reached the low boulders, the Lone Ranger noticed a slight movement near one of the big trees a short distance away. He spoke sharply.

[Lone Ranger]

Down tunnel.

[Tonto]

Quick.

[Lone Ranger]

We'll throw some lead their way.

[Narrator]

After an exchange of shots, there was silence. Then Toto peered over the edge of the boulder.

[Tonto]

They think we see two dark figures running back through trees. Kimasabe.

[Lone Ranger]

All right, we'll follow them. Come on.

[Narrator]

As the Lone Ranger and Toto left the grove, they saw the two men mounting hurriedly.

[Tonto]

We shoot.

[Lone Ranger]

No, let them go and head back to wagon train. They may have seen us there and followed us. Let's get back to camp and get some rest.

[Narrator]

When Hank and the other wagon scout returned to the wagon train camp, they told Jed about what they had seen.

[Tonto]

Yes, sir. Jed. It was light enough to see that one was an Indian and the other was an owl hood wearing a mask. That's right. Somehow they got wise and got behind some boulders before we get a shot at Them. Then they started throwing hot lead at us. Yeah, and those bullets were chipping the bark off in the tree right at my elbow. Wasn't safe for us to stay and fight them, so we hightailed it back here. Well, what do you think about it now? You think we ought to take some men and go back there after him?

[Lone Ranger]

No.

[Tonto]

No. He was doing that, Jed. Them two are on guard now. The only thing we can do is row us to be more careful. Been watching for trouble. Yep. And you can take my word for it. If trouble comes, it'll be that masked man and Indian who brings it. The first time we come to, we'll get the sheriff and have him get a posse and search for them too. Until he finds them.

[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.

[Tonto]

It.

[Narrator]

Now to continue. The following morning, the big wagon train continued on its way westward. Meantime, in Pecos, after riding hard all night, Sid and Rusty found their friend Muggs. Delroy and the three of them sat talking in the cafe.

[Rusty Drake]

We're sure glad to see you, Muggs. Almost ran our horses ragged to get in your letter. You said you were coming out with a big wagon train. Where are the others?

[Tonto]

Wagon train is quite a way back yet. And the plains the other side of Pegasus.

[Rusty Drake]

Yeah, we found out there's a lot of cash in that train, Mugs. Me and Sid didn't get along with the others too well. We finally made an excuse to get away from them. I get it. You got some idea about taking that cash in. That's right.

[Tonto]

I thought if you could get a.

[Rusty Drake]

Few hombres together who'd be interested, we might be able to. I can do better than that. The Apaches have been raising a ruckus around here lately. But finally the troopers from Fort Stockton ran them back to the reservation. Eddie is all but a small number of renegades under Light Failure.

[Tonto]

Who's Light Feather?

[Rusty Drake]

Renegade redskin that got thrown out of his tribe. He's got a band together and they've been hiding out in the hills since the troopers got busy. How do they fit in like this? Lightfeather is a friend of mine, see? I could get him to bring his braves. We'd raid that wagon train. We could lay in wait near the bank of the Pecos river and trap him there.

[Tonto]

Why would those redskins help with the job? What did they want for helping?

[Rusty Drake]

Look, we take the cash boxes and any valuables we find in the wagons. They get the horses after the people are done for.

[Tonto]

Sounds like a good deal. Rusty.

[Rusty Drake]

How soon can you get in touch with Light Feather? Within an hour or so. Hey, come on. We get our horses and ride to this hideout camp right now.

[Lone Ranger]

We can get to those Indians today. We can get them to the riverbank in time. Let's go.

[Narrator]

Muggs led the way to Lightfeather's hidden camp and arranged for the ambush of the wagon train with the renegade chief. Meanwhile, the day passed uneventfully for the pioneers and the wagon train train. And that night as they sat around the campfire, Jed and Mag were conferring with the two wagon train scouts.

[Tonto]

So you think we'll be able to reach the river before noon tomorrow, eh? Sure will, Jed. Ain't very far from here.

[Jed Rector]

I'm sure glad to hear that. We can start the river crossing early in that case.

[Tonto]

Sure. And from then on things will be clear sailing. Fort Stockton isn't far beyond the river and those troopers keep the redskins quiet.

[Jed Rector]

You know, I'm glad them two ornery critters Sid Hooker and Rusty he Drake up and left the train. They sort of made me nervous the whole time they were with us.

[Tonto]

Well Meg, frankly I kept a pretty close watch on them myself. I didn't trust them any further than I could toss a steer. Yeah, well I reckon they're out of her hair all around. What worries me are that Maersk I'm bring that Indian we saw spying on us that night. Yeah, that's right. Hank and me haven't been able to catch sight of them since then. Well maybe it was a couple of outlaws who saw we were too big for the tackle and went on away. Let's hope so. Well, I'm turning in for a sparrow. I'll wake you up when it's your turn to stand watch.

[Jed Rector]

A I reckon those who aren't going to stand watch better turn in now so as to be fit for that river crossing tomorrow. You know, man alive, I'll sure be glad when we get across and have nothing more to worry about.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger and Tonto had kept careful watch but hadn't seen anything out of the way. They made sure that no one would surprise them a second time by being extra careful in the selection of a campsite at dawn the following morning the Lone Rangers spoke as they prepared to break camp.

[Lone Ranger]

Otto wagon train should reach the river a little before noon.

[Tonto]

That's right.

[Lone Ranger]

Once across they'll be safe from attacking.

[Tonto]

Ah, Indians are freighter troopers from fort.

[Lone Ranger]

We ride to the river and wait There in hiding to watch the wagons cross. They may run into difficulties. All right, let's get started. Easy, big fellow.

[Narrator]

As they approached the place where the trail went between the two sloping hills to reach the river, the Lone Ranger and Tottle left the trail and circled to the other side of one of the hills. Then they rode to the crest and halted.

[Lone Ranger]

Tottle looked down on the slopes facing the trail.

[Tonto]

Indians waiting in ambush.

[Lone Ranger]

The wagon train will be trapped if it goes between those hills.

[Narrator]

That's right.

[Lone Ranger]

I'll go warn them. If you go up the river and cross without being spotted, you'll get troopers from Fort Stockton here within the hour.

[Tonto]

Me do that?

[Narrator]

Me get troopers.

[Tonto]

Men get here soon.

[Narrator]

Adios.

[Lone Ranger]

Adios. Ty.

[Tonto]

Hurry.

[Lone Ranger]

Get him up.

[Tonto]

Scout.

[Lone Ranger]

Come on, Silver.

[Narrator]

The Lone Ranger made his way cautiously down the opposite side of the hill. Then, when he was sure he couldn't be seen, headed along the trail toward the wagon train.

[Lone Ranger]

Now let's go, Monster.

[Narrator]

It was a short time later when Jed, riding alongside the lead wagon which Mag was driving, called attention to a rider coming at a fast pace toward them.

[Tonto]

Hey, Mag, look yonder. Coming towards us. You on the tree.

[Jed Rector]

Great day. I can't make out much for the dust, but he sure come and look at his split.

[Tonto]

Yes, sir. Quiet. Hey, wonder who's that coming yonder. We was just wondering the same thing. Hank.

[Jed Rector]

I Thunder. I'm beginning to make him out now. Looks like a mask ombre on a big white horse.

[Tonto]

Hey, you're right. Bet that's a mask hombre we chased the other night. Have your gun ready, Jed. I'll step the wagons till he gets here. We can handle things better that way. Oh, Lord. Stop. The white island. Watch out. Look.

[Narrator]

Coming.

[Tonto]

Holy cow. The mast Armory. The Indian isn't with him this time. Get the drop on him.

[Lone Ranger]

Easy. Steady.

[Tonto]

I came to warn you. Now hold on, mister. We got you covered to make one move.

[Lone Ranger]

You don't need that gun. I came to tell you Indians are waiting in ambush. There may be time if you swing around.

[Jed Rector]

Shut up, mister. This isn't the first time we've seen you. You came spying on us with a redskins. Now you try to get us to turn so as you can trap us. Maybe. Don't listen to anything he has to say, Jed.

[Lone Ranger]

You'd better listen. Indians are waiting in ambush at the river on both slopes of the hills there.

[Tonto]

Hey, listen, you. I'm one of the scouts for this here wagon train. We rode the river a while ago and we found everything all right. I say you're lying for some reason, I'll overlook the fact.

[Lone Ranger]

You call me a liar, mister. This is more important. I say Indians are waiting to raid this wagon train. Take that for what it's worth.

[Tonto]

Well, we. We believe what our Scots tell us, mister. That's what some mask hombre who spends nights spying on us is. Hank, we'll take his guns and take off his mast. Then we'll take him to Lord.

[Lone Ranger]

Don't try it if you want to live.

[Jed Rector]

Don't let him talk to you like that. Jed, are you a man or a mouse? And you with a drawn gun on him.

[Tonto]

I'll get his guns right now. Keep him covered, Hank. You too, Meg.

[Narrator]

As Jed holstered his own gun and urged his horse forward toward the Lone Ranger, the masked man signaled the intelligent Silver with his knee. Immediately, Silver snorted and reared to his hind legs. The other horses, frightened, jumped and fought. The great Silver whirled and sprang away down the trail at such a fast gallop that when the others regained their balance, the masked man and the great white stallion were out of gunshot.

[Tonto]

Holy mackerel. Did you see that?

[Jed Rector]

He was by thunder. He moved so fast, him and that stallion. Nobody could see anything. They say that was the fastest moving hombre and horse I ever did see.

[Tonto]

I'd sure like to know what he was up to. Well, whatever it was, he didn't get away with it. Long as you say the way is clear, we're moving toward the river. All right, get moving, everybody. Get those wagons moving.

[Narrator]

An hour later, the wagon train entered the small valley between the two slopes where the trail approached the river. As the lead wagon stopped at the river, there was a stillness in the air for a few moments.

[Tonto]

Just as Hank said. Meg, everything's as quiet as can be.

[Lone Ranger]

Yep.

[Jed Rector]

Now all we have to do is.

[Tonto]

Holy smoke. Indians.

[Jed Rector]

The next man was right. Jed. Oh, Jed. Look at him coming down both.

[Lone Ranger]

Yeah, he's just Teddy. Big fella.

[Jed Rector]

It's him again.

[Lone Ranger]

I came to help. Jed. I suggest you get everybody into the wagon. The men can shoot under the canvas. Hurry.

[Tonto]

Good idea. Into the wagons, everybody. It is a wagon.

[Narrator]

Following the Lone Ranger's suggestion, the men quickly got into the wagons and, crouching down, shoved their rifles and guns under the edge of the canvas to shoot at the Indians. The Lone Ranger, taking advantage of each lull in the battle and creeping along under the big schooners, managed to make his way from one wagon to another, giving help and advice and watching for flaming arrows. Finally, he returned to Jed's lead wagon and was fighting beside Jed, Mag and Hank.

[Jed Rector]

Thunder. I made that one. Bite the dust. Darn it. There are plenty more to take his place. Must be 40 or 50 out there.

[Lone Ranger]

Wait. Look up the side of the slope.

[Tonto]

You see two white men. Holy smoke. That's Sid Hooker and Rusty Drake. They used to be with us, but they pulled out a couple of nights ago.

[Lone Ranger]

They must be responsible for this raid.

[Jed Rector]

I agree with you. They will never make it. We're running out of bullet.

[Lone Ranger]

We have to hang on.

[Tonto]

We're going to get down, but we'll go fighting. Terrible.

[Jed Rector]

If we could only think of some way that we did.

[Tonto]

The troopers.

[Lone Ranger]

My Indian friend went for them.

[Jed Rector]

Great day. And to think we didn't trust you. Look, the Indians are leaving.

[Narrator]

For a short time, the Indians fought back as they tried to retreat. But gradually the troopers encircled them, closing in gradually until they gained up entirely. The battle was over.

[Lone Ranger]

Got here just in time.

[Tonto]

Troopers set white men with Indians. Take white men to force. Take Indians to reservation.

[Lone Ranger]

Well, the train will be safe from now on.

[Tonto]

All right, Connie. I reckon we owe our lives to you, mister.

[Lone Ranger]

The only way the west was survive and grow by each one helping the other. Hank, we'll be nearby if you need help crossing. From now on, you won't have Indian trouble. Easy. Steady, Big F.

[Jed Rector]

Well, now, look at that. There they go. Riding away like nothing had ever happened. Instead of staying here, those people could thank them for what they did.

[Tonto]

Hey, jazz man. Where's that mask man? He's gone.

[Jed Rector]

Yeah, gone without waiting for thanks either.

[Tonto]

Well, by thunder, it finally came to me.

[Jed Rector]

I should remember before, but came to you, you knitwit.

[Tonto]

Why, what do you think? That the masked man is an ombre? I should have known. He's the Lone.

[Narrator]

This is a feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated, created by George W. Trendle, produced by Trendall Campbell Enterprises, directed by Charles D. Livingston and edited by Fran Striker.

[Tonto]

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 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 copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.