Originally Aired: November 7, 1938
The Lone Ranger #902, "Trouble At The Cooley Ranch," Deputy Steve Craig discovers rancher Lynn Bishop shot through the back near old Nate Cooley's property, immediately suspecting Nate in the killing. However, the Lone Ranger and Tonto discover crucial evidence at the scene that tells a different story. The hoofprints reveal that Lynn's body was transported to the location after being killed elsewhere, as his horse's tracks show no difference in depth before and after Lynn fell, while a third horse's prints indicate it carried double weight. The masked rider and his faithful companion begin backtrailing to find where the actual shooting took place.
Before the Lone Ranger can reveal his findings, young Doug Cooley stuns everyone by confessing to the murder, claiming he shot Lynn during an argument about rustling accusations near Buffalo Basin. The sheriff promptly arrests Doug and schedules his hanging for the following morning. With time running out and Doug seemingly willing to accept his fate rather than let his father be blamed, the Lone Ranger and Tonto must uncover the truth behind Lynn Bishop's death before an innocent man faces the gallows.