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Doug
And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
car insurance with Liberty Mutual.
Doug
Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.
Liberty Mutual Partner
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Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Oh, no. We help customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Anyways, get a'@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.
Liberty Mutual Partner
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Andrew Rines
Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and I'm excited to bring you another episode. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. You can find more Western shows at our website by going to otrwesterns.com now let's get into this episode.
The Lone Ranger
Away.
Narrator
A fiery horse with the speed of light, a cloud of dust and a hearty hi O. Silver, the Lone Ranger.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
And Doug.
Doug
There's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Anyways, get a quote@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.
The Lone Ranger
It's sam.
Narrator
From the hills of Wyoming to the mountains of Mexico, the Lone Ranger led the fight for law and order in the western United States. Whenever men gathered around the campfire, stories were told of his strength and courage, his daring and resourcefulness. Nowhere in the pages of history can one find a greater champion of justice. Return with us now to those thrilling days when the west was young. From out of the pass come the thundering hoof beats of the great horse Silver. The Lone Ranger rides again.
The Lone Ranger
Come on, Silver. We're heading for the Rio Grandley. There's going to be trouble. I'll Silver away.
Narrator
The Lone Ranger in Tonto had found shelter from the storm in a cave less than a quarter of a mile from the Rio Grande. Suddenly, from somewhere between the Cave and the river. Several shots rang out.
Masked Man
30 silver tunnel. Did you hear that?
Squint
Someone shoot?
Masked Man
Yes. While they're shooting, there's generally trouble. Wait here. I'm going out and find out what the shooting means. You say counter gold. I'd rather go myself. As soon as I got my gun belt on. I'll go on foot. Horses hoofs make too much noise.
Narrator
Counterfoot our campfire.
Masked Man
No. Let the fire burn. If someone comes here, I'll be outside. Let them talk and we might learn more about the shooting. I'll not be far away. Sounded as if the shots came from the south. Hard to tell, though.
Narrator
When the masked man reached the edge
Masked Man
of the woods, he stopped.
Narrator
The sound of running feet reached him and then the hard breathing of someone on the verge of exhaustion.
Masked Man
One minute. Wait. Stay here.
The Lone Ranger
Let me go. Let me go.
Masked Man
Who fired those shots?
The Lone Ranger
None of your business. Please let me go.
Masked Man
Very well. I'll let you go. Where do you think you're going?
The Lone Ranger
Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Oh, I can't. Oh, what the use you walk out
Masked Man
of that motor hole, young lady. There, now. Take it easy.
Jed Bascom
You come.
Masked Man
Are you hurt?
Abby Watkins
No.
Masked Man
There's a shelter within 20 yards of here. You can see the light of the campfire. Let me help you there.
The Lone Ranger
Who are you, anyway? You don't talk like one of the Bascom gang.
Masked Man
I'm not one of the Bascom gang. You're cold, aren't you? Don't try to talk until you're warm. Meanwhile, please don't be afraid. We're almost at the cave.
Squint
Me?
Masked Man
Come help. The girl's exhausted. Toto, get some blankets ready and put some food on the fire to get warm. Are you sure you didn't hurt yourself and you fell?
Abby Watkins
No. But, girl, I wrote myself on the hot ground than still in that mud hole.
The Lone Ranger
Look at me.
Masked Man
That's the spirit. When you're concerned about your appearance, it's a sign you're getting over your fear.
Abby Watkins
How'd you know I was afraid?
Masked Man
Why would you run so blindly into a woods on a night like this if you weren't?
Abby Watkins
I suppose that's true.
Masked Man
Are those shots? Are they fired at you?
The Lone Ranger
Yes.
Masked Man
By whom?
Abby Watkins
Look here, stranger. I don't see that it's any of your business.
The Lone Ranger
I don't know who you are, and
Abby Watkins
I had work to do.
Masked Man
Work?
Abby Watkins
That's just what I said.
Narrator
Me got food on fire Ready?
Masked Man
Plenty. Quick now.
Abby Watkins
Well, thanks for the invitation, but I'm not staying here long enough to eat.
Masked Man
Where are you?
Abby Watkins
Do you hear anyone?
Masked Man
No.
Abby Watkins
Yes. It's all right then. Let him come after me. Thanks for giving me the chance to catch my breath, stranger. Now I've got to go.
Masked Man
You are a peculiar girl in your mask. I forgot about being masked. Please don't misjudge me for wearing it.
Abby Watkins
I have no time to form any opinion of you, so the mask doesn't matter a bit. Hey, here's your blanket. Thanks for the use of the fire.
Masked Man
You aren't leaving until the rain. What's up?
The Lone Ranger
Why not?
Abby Watkins
Can't get any wetter than I am.
Masked Man
Hardly. But you can get a lot drier. Now sit down.
Abby Watkins
I'm armed, mister.
Masked Man
Oh, I see you are.
Abby Watkins
I'm armed and I know how to use this gun. Please don't force me to use it. I like your style so far and hate like the dickens to double cross you, but I've got to do it.
Masked Man
Double cross me?
Abby Watkins
That's what I said. I've got to blame you for something I've done. It's the only way I know of.
Masked Man
I've been blamed for a lot of things and I'm quite used to it. It will help you to accuse me of anything you've done. Go right ahead. But won't you tell me what I
Abby Watkins
have to tell you? Honestly? I would, but I can't. I can't even tell you my name.
Masked Man
You mentioned the Bascom game.
Abby Watkins
Shouldn't even have said that much. Thanks, Ben.
Masked Man
Comfortable? Get her. Wait, Tana. Let her go. I'm going to follow. As soon as she had a little lead. That girl's in trouble. She's terrified. There was something about her face that was familiar. I wonder where I've seen her. Or someone who looked like her.
Squint
Tonto.
Narrator
Member.
Masked Man
Lawman. Him Looked like her. No. That's right. Now listen to me, kimosabe. I'm going to follow her. You come along about half an hour behind me. If I get into a trap of some sort, I'll count on your help. If there's anything to tell you, I'll leave a message.
Narrator
Jed Bascom stood at his desk in the living room of the cabin. Two men who bore the stamps of outlaws watched him as he examined the contents of the desk.
Jed Bascom
I guess I scared the crook away before he got anything.
Squint
Sure that Bascom can't take no chances on having some of the things in your desk.
Jed Bascom
Get out and chicken once more to make sure.
Squint
Glad you didn't drill the critter. Any idea who it was that tried to rob you?
The Lone Ranger
No kidding. You all right?
Jed Bascom
Don't I look it where have you been, Marty?
Martha Bascom
Bed, of course. Heard the shooting and ducked.
Abby Watkins
Who was it?
Narrator
Lawman, I reckon.
Squint
So where'd to go?
Martha Bascom
Figured the best thing for me to do was stay in hiding until I learned more of what was going on here.
Jed Bascom
Went into your mind to come with a gun and see if I needed help? What is it?
Martha Bascom
Listen, Bascom, I told you when I married you that I was willing to let you go on with your smuggling and all that sort of thing as long as I had all the pretty clothes and cash I want. I also told you I wasn't going to live here with any misunderstanding. I ain't to get into no gunfights.
The Lone Ranger
And if the law catches up with
Martha Bascom
you, it's your worry, not mine. I didn't say I'd marry you. And you could count on me to be the loyal woman that'd stick with
The Lone Ranger
you through thick and thin.
Abby Watkins
Get that straight.
Jed Bascom
I got it straight. I ain't said nothing about it.
Martha Bascom
All right, then don't throw it up at me if I don't come shooting when I hear gunplay. What happened?
Jed Bascom
Well, the prowler came here. I heard him and come into this room. Then I reckon he heard me.
Masked Man
He ducked.
Martha Bascom
Get away, you.
Squint
He didn't get nothing, though, ma'.
Abby Watkins
Am.
Martha Bascom
Don't matter if he did or not. It's a sign he knows where to look for evidence. Again, you polecat.
Squint
Now, look here, Ms. Bascom. Even if you are Jed's wife, you ain't the right.
Martha Bascom
I've got the right to say what I like.
The Lone Ranger
And if you don't like what I say, get out. That goes for you, too, Jed. Bascom.
Martha Bascom
Where's the girl?
Masked Man
I don't know.
Jed Bascom
I don't see her from one day to the next.
Martha Bascom
You mean to say she slept through all that shooting?
Squint
Maybe she's hiding, too.
Martha Bascom
Maybe. I'll go see.
Jed Bascom
Well, you're at it. Find out how much longer she's going to have to stay here with us. I will.
Martha Bascom
I'm tired of her being here, same as you are.
Abby Watkins
Hey, you.
The Lone Ranger
Wake up.
Martha Bascom
You, I'm talking at. Wake up.
Abby Watkins
What's the matter?
Martha Bascom
Set yourself up in that bed. I hankered to have a few words with you.
Abby Watkins
Oh, it's you, Ms. Bacon. Alternative?
Martha Bascom
Tain't getting up time yet. Where was you during the shootin'?
Abby Watkins
Shootin'?
Martha Bascom
You mean to say you didn't hear no gunfire?
Abby Watkins
A while ago I might have, but. Guess I thought I'd been dreaming. There's something wrong, I don't know, but shootin' Gunplay. What's it all about?
Martha Bascom
Nothing that concerns you. How's that ankle of yours?
Abby Watkins
Getting better, thank you.
Martha Bascom
Seems like it's been healing a long time now. Odd, but a spill from a horse, that hurts you so.
Abby Watkins
I'll be able to travel another couple of days. I'm sure of it, Ms. Baskin.
Martha Bascom
All right, then. I'll count on that.
Abby Watkins
I'm dreadfully sorry that I put you and your husband to so much income.
Martha Bascom
Never mind being sorry. Well, you figure on going when you leave here?
Abby Watkins
Well, when I fell from my horse, I was on my way to El Paso.
Martha Bascom
Relatives there?
Abby Watkins
Good friends, not relatives. I see.
Martha Bascom
You didn't hear no shooting, huh?
Abby Watkins
Well, I just.
Martha Bascom
Something about you strikes me odd.
Abby Watkins
What do you mean?
Martha Bascom
Seems like I've seen you before somewheres.
Abby Watkins
What relatives? You got none?
Martha Bascom
Let me get that lamp and have another look at your face.
Abby Watkins
Oh, but.
The Lone Ranger
But what?
Martha Bascom
Don't you like to be looked at?
Abby Watkins
Well, I. That is.
Martha Bascom
Bothered me ever since I first set eyes on you. There, now look at me.
Abby Watkins
That light hurts my eyes.
Martha Bascom
You'll get used to it in a minute. Draw your hair back from your face.
Abby Watkins
Like this? Uh huh. Dead Reddit.
Martha Bascom
I wish I could remember where I
Abby Watkins
seen a face like yours.
Martha Bascom
Said you didn't have no relatives.
Abby Watkins
None living. I'm sure I've never seen you before.
Martha Bascom
Said your name was Wakefield, didn't you?
Abby Watkins
Yes.
Martha Bascom
First name Abby. Don't ring familiar.
Abby Watkins
No way either, Ms. Bascom. I think I know it. I know where you mean.
Martha Bascom
Just wait a minute, Abby. Wakefield. Let me see what this means. Your riding clothes wet and mud soaked. How'd they get that way?
The Lone Ranger
Well, first rain since you come here
Martha Bascom
has been tonight, ain't it?
The Lone Ranger
Well, yes. You've been out of this house. Mud there on the window. That's how you got back in again, ain't it?
Abby Watkins
I know you'll think I'm crazy.
Martha Bascom
Come on, talk, Miss Abby. Let me hear what your story is. You got such a bad hurt ankle that you can't hardly stand on it. But here's your riding clothes and your boot.
Abby Watkins
I know you were anxious for me leave, so I. I dressed and tried to leave. Mm.
Martha Bascom
Spill in the mud and come back, huh?
Abby Watkins
Yes. Spill in the mud, come back, had the boots on.
Martha Bascom
Thought your ankle was swelled so you couldn't get them on. Let me see that ankle, please.
The Lone Ranger
You be still.
Martha Bascom
Let me have a look.
Abby Watkins
Just as I thought.
Martha Bascom
Ain't no sign of a hurt ankle.
Abby Watkins
Put your hands up. Mother Basket got a gun, huh? And I'll Use it now. I savvy.
Martha Bascom
Now I know how. You look familiar.
Abby Watkins
It's your father.
Martha Bascom
You got the same chin as he had. Your right name's Abby Watkins.
The Lone Ranger
And your old man was John Watkins, a lawman.
Abby Watkins
That's right. And he was murdered. You know who killed him?
Martha Bascom
I got notions about that, but ain't seen what they are.
Abby Watkins
He was trying to run down a pack of smugglers. The pack was led by Jed Bascom. Mm. Pa came here and that's the last anyone saw of him alive. Was found dead. Made to look as if he'd fallen over a ravine on his horse. But I know different. I'm here to get the evidence that my PA was after when he died.
Martha Bascom
You're a downright ambitious girl, ain't you?
Abby Watkins
He's sure wondering about it. I'm the one who searched through Jed's death tonight. And I'm the one he fired at in the dark.
Martha Bascom
Now that you got the drop on
The Lone Ranger
me, what you figure on doing?
Martha Bascom
Shoot me, and Jed and his pals will come here on the run. Don't shoot me now.
The Lone Ranger
Tell Jed who you are.
Abby Watkins
Yeah.
Martha Bascom
I know you haven't got the whip hand that you think you have, have it? You're in a bad spot and you can't win. Now, if you'll take my advice, you'll just take up them clothes, put up that gun and get out of the window. Travel fast and keep on going. You have a couple minutes start, and if you pick the right horse, that'll be enough.
Abby Watkins
Came here to get evidence against Jed, Bascom. I'm not leaving without that evidence.
Martha Bascom
Tell me some more. Maybe you know how you'll get it and get away with it.
The Lone Ranger
Open this door. Open it up.
Abby Watkins
Tell him to go away.
Squint
Clasp your hands and drop that gun.
The Lone Ranger
Good work, Squint. Watch her. Come on in, Jen.
Squint
I got her covered, boss.
Jed Bascom
What you doing?
Masked Man
Movie.
The Lone Ranger
Holding a gun and making threats.
Jed Bascom
I found out who she is. Here, mister.
Masked Man
Take a good look. That's the girl, all right.
Jed Bascom
So stand up. Happy Watkins. I know who you are now.
Masked Man
Yes, Abby? I remembered where I'd seen that cleft chin before. Your father had one like it. Planned hurting.
Jed Bascom
Coming here to get evidence on me, huh?
The Lone Ranger
That's what you was doing, Jed.
Jed Bascom
Good thing I had Squint go around outside and cover her through the window.
Abby Watkins
All right, Bascom, you know the truth. You've got me.
The Lone Ranger
Thanks to Batman.
Masked Man
Yes, Abby, thanks to me.
Abby Watkins
For a little while, I liked your style. Well, go on. Who's going to be the one to shoot Me.
Narrator
The curtain falls on the first act of our Lone Ranger story. Before the next exciting scenes. Please permit us to pause for just a few moments.
Doug
Then, Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
car insurance with Liberty Mutual.
Doug
Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
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Martha Bascom
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Doug
There's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Hey everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.
Liberty Mutual Partner
Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Anyways, get a quote@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.
Liberty Mutual Partner
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Narrator
Now to continue our story. When the smugglers learned Abby Watkins real identity through the Lone Ranger, the girl turned on the masked man.
Abby Watkins
And I thought you were a real man. You told me you weren't a crook in spite of your mask.
Masked Man
Did I tell you that?
Abby Watkins
Yes.
Jed Bascom
So she's there. Be watching Z.
Masked Man
Now what do you know about more than that, Jed?
Martha Bascom
Her ankle ain't hurt at all. And take a look at these riding clothes. She was the one that tried to search through your desk tonight.
Jed Bascom
Well, this is almighty Interesting. Mighty interesting.
Abby Watkins
All right, Beckham, you've got me. Why don't you shoot me?
Jed Bascom
Plenty of time for that, Abbey boy.
Masked Man
Sir.
Squint
Who is this hombre anyhow?
Jed Bascom
Yes, stranger, who are ye?
Masked Man
If I wasn't on your side, do you think I'd come here and warn you about this girl?
Jed Bascom
Don't seem so.
Martha Bascom
That ain't telling who he is though.
Jed Bascom
You keep out of this, smartphee. And you have a lot to talk about, stranger.
Masked Man
Yes, we have.
Jed Bascom
I reckon you're hanker to join up with Me, huh?
Masked Man
I guess almost any man would be glad of the chance to join an outfit that's as powerful as yours, Bascom, if he didn't care about staying inside the law.
Squint
Good.
Jed Bascom
Good enough. I like the way you wear them guns. You look like a man that could handle them real good.
Masked Man
I'll manage them if there's need to. Good. Now then, Bascom. I want the chance to talk to this girl for work.
Abby Watkins
There's nothing to talk about.
Masked Man
That's where you're wrong, Abby. There's a lot to talk about.
Martha Bascom
I have nothing to say, Bascom.
Masked Man
I came here to get some information from her. That's the reason I've been trailing her. The fact that you've been helped is just incidental. What do you mean? My main purpose is to find out about some friends of mine. And I think she'll be able to give me the information.
Jed Bascom
Go on.
Masked Man
Talk to her alone.
Jed Bascom
Well, we'll leave you be.
Masked Man
One other thing. Have you someplace you can hold her captive?
Jed Bascom
I don't know. We don't generally keep prisoners here. We?
Masked Man
A cyclone cellar or something like that.
Squint
We got the cellar, boss. Ain't no way of getting there save from the trapdoor. We could lock her there.
Masked Man
That'll do fine. Put her down there and I'll talk to her later.
Martha Bascom
You.
Narrator
Come on, girl.
Martha Bascom
It's down cellar for you.
Abby Watkins
That masked man needn't think I'll talk to him. My lips are sealed and I don't care what's done. I know my life's as good as gone.
The Lone Ranger
There isn't anything you can say or promise that'll make me give the slightest bit of information. But get this, all of you.
Squint
Shut her up.
Abby Watkins
You better hear me. Cause these are the last words I'll ever say.
The Lone Ranger
You're all headed for downfall.
Abby Watkins
Flowers getting harder and harder to beat all the time. You can kill some men. That's my father. Some people like me. But just assure that a blue sky overhead.
The Lone Ranger
Every last one of you'll end up
Abby Watkins
on the rope of a hangman. Where's that fella? I'm ready.
Martha Bascom
This way.
Jed Bascom
She sure is a spooky girl, isn't she?
Squint
Gosh, boss, ain't it a shame? A girl like that has got to be so doggone foolish and reckless.
Jed Bascom
Hey, stranger. How about taking off that mask now that you're with friends?
Masked Man
I'm not sure yet that I am with friends.
Jed Bascom
What'll make you sure?
Masked Man
I'll have to know you better, then decide for myself. What was that?
Jed Bascom
Trap door to the Cellar being shut. Squinch, you take care of the outside door.
Squint
Right enough, boss. I'll tend to it right away.
Masked Man
Well, Bascom, now that we're alone. Yeah?
Jed Bascom
Me and you can come to a sort of understanding, can't we?
Masked Man
Just how big an outfit do you have? Big enough. How big?
Jed Bascom
I ain't sayin nothing about that. But you can be sure I got all the men I need. Unless. Unless I can get a man that's special. Like what? You seem to be. What sort of working arrangement you got in mind?
Masked Man
Percentage, maybe.
Jed Bascom
It could be work to have.
Masked Man
You keep records of some sort, don't you? Maybe. I'll have to look them over. No, not right now. I wouldn't expect you to show me your records until we know each other. I just wanted to find out if I was talking to a good businessman. You won't find none petty. That's all I wanted to know for the time being.
Jed Bascom
Now, what about you?
Masked Man
What about me?
Jed Bascom
How do I know what to count on in you? Where are you from?
Squint
What have you done?
Jed Bascom
What incarnation do you look like?
Masked Man
There's plenty of time for that. I think I'll have a talk with the girl now.
Jed Bascom
Well, help yourself.
Masked Man
Where's that trap door? This way.
Jed Bascom
What did you want to talk to her about?
Masked Man
If it was anything I wanted you to know, I'd talk in front of you.
Jed Bascom
Don't give out much information, do you?
Masked Man
You want someone who tells all he knows to be a member of your gang.
Squint
That's right, now.
Jed Bascom
But you've got the right answer for everything, ain't you?
Masked Man
This is it. Open it.
Jed Bascom
You want me to lock it when
Masked Man
you get down there? That doesn't matter.
Jed Bascom
There's a couple of candles on the table at the foot of the stairs. You got matches?
Masked Man
Yes.
The Lone Ranger
You needn't think I'll give you any information.
Masked Man
All right, Bascom. You can shut the door now.
Squint
Right.
Jed Bascom
Just tell her when you would have come up.
Masked Man
Abby, please listen for a moment.
Abby Watkins
You double crossed.
Masked Man
Wait. I didn't tell him who you were until his wife had found out about you.
The Lone Ranger
I won't listen, Martha.
Masked Man
Bascom had you and you know it. You held a gun on her, but she told you that you were in a spot. You couldn't keep her covered forever, and you couldn't shoot her. She knew you were Abby Watkins.
Abby Watkins
I won't listen to a thing, Abby.
Masked Man
I'm here to help you. Won't you try to understand?
Abby Watkins
Fine.
Martha Bascom
Help you?
Abby Watkins
What'd you say?
Masked Man
I want to help you. I'm here because you're certain to be killed by the Bascom gang. They won't let you get away from here alive now that they know who you are. They already knew you before I spoke.
Abby Watkins
How did you know?
Masked Man
I heard the conversation between you and Martha.
Abby Watkins
You did?
Masked Man
I came from the woods shortly after you left me. I heard Martha when she found out who you were. I left word for Tando and gave him instructions.
Abby Watkins
Instructions?
Masked Man
We've got to count on him to carry through a part of my plan.
Abby Watkins
You told Bastim who I was?
Masked Man
Before I did that, I realized that nothing could be lost by telling him who you were. Much can be gained because now he thinks I'm as crooked as he is.
Abby Watkins
What did Bastum do?
Masked Man
He sent Squint around the outside of the house to get the drop on you through the window. Then he rapped on the door.
Abby Watkins
Oh, but now we.
Masked Man
Now we have only to wait until Toddo does his part. I think we'll be safe here. I hope so. That's the chance we must take.
Abby Watkins
Safe? Safe from what?
Masked Man
Just wait, Abby. Tonto should be here in a few minutes. Now.
Narrator
Upstairs in the cabin, Jed discussed the probability of the Lone Ranger joining the gang.
Jed Bascom
That old rail be real handy for a squid. I already know of a couple of ways to make first rate use of them.
Squint
What's the matter, newcomer, that you don't even know the face of? Comes here and you're all filled up with ideas as to how valuable he'll be.
Narrator
Why not?
Squint
What's the matter with us men that have been with you right along?
Jed Bascom
So that's what's rankling you, squid. Now don't go get yourself jealous of a new man. Why not? You wouldn't want the job I got in mind for him. What's more, I wouldn't want you to have that job. I figure you're too valuable to use up the way I got in mind for the Nashman. Same goes for the rest of the boys.
Squint
What do you got in mind?
Jed Bascom
That girl has got to have something happen, ain't she? We can't let her go free to tell what she suspicions about us, can we?
Squint
Wouldn't be good sense to do so.
Jed Bascom
All right, then she's got to meet up with trouble of a real dangerous nature and maybe be found dead in a few days. The law will be right anxious to get the one that killed her. Ain't that so? Sure, Especially with her being the daughter of a lawman. Well, just this law ain't going to rest or better hang a man for the murder. Ah, that's where the masked man comes in. What's the matter?
Squint
Do you smell smoke?
Jed Bascom
I ain't noticed. Likely food burning. Now what's the matter with my scheme?
Squint
The scheme being to fix it so the masked man is the one to hang. Sounds all right to me.
Jed Bascom
It is all right. Now do you see what the job I got for him is?
Squint
You might have told me about it in the first place.
Jed Bascom
You doggone injured. Worried that old Jed was going to let his own men down. Why I say it do smell smooth.
Squint
Something's burning for sure.
Masked Man
Seems to be over this way.
The Lone Ranger
Jed set the house into fire. Look at that smoke.
Jed Bascom
Flames.
Masked Man
Martha, what's stiff?
The Lone Ranger
Get our tanks out of there. This house will go up like tender.
Narrator
Get water for it.
The Lone Ranger
The house is afire. Water.
Masked Man
Get some water.
The Lone Ranger
I won't help. Look at the st. Them flames. Not these wings. The white spring's in flames too.
Narrator
We got to get out of here.
Squint
Damn.
The Lone Ranger
In the cell.
Masked Man
Never mind them.
The Lone Ranger
Come with me. Swift, get my clothes. What about the clothes? Take what you can tell and get out. I got to get my pretty squints.
Jed Bascom
Give me a hand.
The Lone Ranger
The smoke is getting bad.
Masked Man
Smoke?
Narrator
Richard, come on.
Jed Bascom
Like cash.
Masked Man
My rickets. I got to get them out.
The Lone Ranger
This place is going fast. The roof will get out in a minute.
Jed Bascom
Here, take what rickets r this?
Masked Man
Take this box. Quick.
Jed Bascom
Take it and then come this way. This more that's got to be saved.
The Lone Ranger
You come too, Slim.
Masked Man
Earlier. Never mind the smoke. Never mind it. Get over here. My secret hiding place.
The Lone Ranger
My eyes. Burn the smoke.
Abby Watkins
Now.
Masked Man
This is it. Grab a hold. This section of the wall. Grab a hold Here. Squint. Take a hold here. You got it?
The Lone Ranger
Yeah, yeah.
Squint
I got.
Masked Man
I got. That does it. I'll take these things. You're just going to elect your arms.
The Lone Ranger
Jake.
Masked Man
Jake.
The Lone Ranger
You better get out of here. Get yourself up.
Masked Man
We'll be all right. Hurry in a boss. Slim. Take these bundles.
Narrator
Gotta save them.
The Lone Ranger
I got em now. Save yourself. Get to the outside. What is this? The door is fastened.
Masked Man
Who's done this?
The Lone Ranger
It's fastened from the outside.
Masked Man
Open this door. Get this door open.
Narrator
While the smoke billowed in dense clouds through the cabin, the three men fought to get the door open. They were half blinded and the roar of the flames crept closer every minute. Then the Lone Ranger's voice rang out.
The Lone Ranger
Come this way. I'll show you how to get out.
Squint
I can't see. Who's this?
Masked Man
You want to get out of this fire trap?
The Lone Ranger
Come with me. Can't see you. Come on this way. Stop hold of me.
Abby Watkins
I can.
The Lone Ranger
Come on, then.
Masked Man
You're all right.
Jed Bascom
Just keep moving.
Masked Man
The back door is right ahead. Step through it and you'll be outside where it's safe. This is it, boys.
Narrator
We're all right, though.
Squint
Watering so I can hardly see. But it's a messman straight ahead, man.
Masked Man
Your horses are there now.
The Lone Ranger
Juke level, silly. Hey, there's the girl, too. Yes, I'm here. But no thanks to you, man.
Abby Watkins
We'd have died in that cellar if
The Lone Ranger
Tano hadn't opened the outside door.
Squint
Ooh.
Masked Man
Me Tanto take those bundles from Monto. That's the evidence the law wants.
Squint
The law?
Narrator
What is that about the law?
Abby Watkins
What do you think?
The Lone Ranger
You Polk heads have been hiding the
Abby Watkins
evidence against this gang too cleverly for
The Lone Ranger
the law to find.
Abby Watkins
It took a trick to get you.
Jed Bascom
What's this about a trick?
Masked Man
Ask him. The only way to make you show the records you kept so carefully was to make you save them from the fire. You mean Otto started this fire to smoke you all out?
Squint
Hey, my gun is gone.
Jed Bascom
Mine too.
Masked Man
I took your guns while you were fighting your way through the smoke. You'll need no weapons in jail.
The Lone Ranger
Tricked.
Jed Bascom
We've been tricked.
The Lone Ranger
I ain't going to go down with you, Jed Bascom. I'm going to save my own day. Goodbye, Brooklyn.
Squint
Get up, woman's cap.
Masked Man
Let her go. TTO These men are the ones the law wants.
Abby Watkins
And now the law have them. The greatest wish of my father has been fulfilled. Thanks to you mess men.
Masked Man
The west must be rid of men like these. Abby.
Jed Bascom
Hello.
Masked Man
Keep your guns on them while I ride into town for the sheriff.
Abby Watkins
Goodbye, mess man.
Masked Man
Adios.
The Lone Ranger
AD.
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Narrator
The story you have just heard is a copyrighted feature of the Lone Ranger Incorporated.
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 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.
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Oh no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.
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Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.
Liberty Mutual Spokesperson
Anyways, get a quote@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.
Liberty Mutual Partner
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Release Date: May 23, 2026
This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns delivers a digitally restored presentation of the classic Lone Ranger radio drama, “Trouble on the Rio Grande,” first broadcast in 1941. Host Andrew Rhynes offers listeners a vibrant journey into the Wild West, where the Lone Ranger and Tonto become entangled in a tense affair involving lawmen, a cunning gang of smugglers, and a courageous young woman with a score to settle.
Memorable Dialogue:
“Why would you run so blindly into a woods on a night like this if you weren’t [afraid]?” – Masked Man, (06:39)
Notable Quote:
“There was something about her face that was familiar. I wonder where I’ve seen her – or someone who looked like her.” – Masked Man, (08:04)
Memorable Banter:
“I told you when I married you I was willing to let you go on with your smuggling […], as long as I had all the pretty clothes and cash I want. I also told you I wasn’t going to get into no gunfights.” – Martha Bascom, (09:29)
Crucial Revelation:
“Your old man was John Watkins, a lawman.”
“That’s right. And he was murdered. You know who killed him?”
– Martha Bascom and Abby Watkins, (13:54–14:00)
Notable Quote:
“If I wasn’t on your side, do you think I’d come here and warn you about this girl?” – Masked Man, (18:17)
Notable Exchange:
“I’m here to help you. Won’t you try to understand?” – Masked Man, (22:45)
“Safe? Safe from what?” – Abby Watkins, (23:32)
Climactic Moment:
“The only way to make you show the records you kept so carefully was to make you save them from the fire.” – Masked Man, (27:58)
Closing Words:
“The west must be rid of men like these, Abby… Keep your guns on them while I ride into town for the sheriff.” – Masked Man, (28:30; 28:37)
The original radio drama is fast-paced and dramatized with suspense, moral clarity, and occasional hearty humor. Abby’s courageous determination is juxtaposed with the Lone Ranger’s calm, methodical heroism. The villains embody both bluster and treachery, while Tonto provides silent, decisive support at the critical moment.
Trouble on the Rio Grande offers all the elements of a timeless Lone Ranger tale: undercover heroics, strong female characters, and justice triumphing over cunning criminality. This episode highlights ingenuity—using the villains’ own instincts against them—while honoring the values of loyalty, bravery, and the enduring quest for justice in the frontier West.
For more classic Western adventures, visit otrwesterns.com.