Missouri Mike's Horse Race

Originally Aired: December 26, 1938The Lone Ranger #923, "Missouri Mike's Horse Race,"The Lone Ranger and Tonto pursue the notorious outlaw Missouri Mike and his partner Steve Sanders across the frontier. While tracking the criminals, they stop at the ranch of Widow Sprague and her horse-loving son Sam to water their mounts. Young Sam is awestruck by Silver's magnificent speed and proudly shows off his own horse, Paint, which he believes is the fastest in the territory. The masked rider warns them about Missouri Mike, describing how the outlaw can be identified by his black beard, chestnut horse, and distinctive tattoo on his right forearm.Shortly after the Lone Ranger departs for Parkersville, Missouri Mike and Steve arrive at the Sprague ranch seeking water. Mike has cunningly disguised himself by shaving his beard and trading his telltale chestnut mare to an Indian named White Fox for a paint horse. When Sam boasts about his horse's speed, the scheming outlaw begins hatching a plan involving a race that could line his pockets with betting money while keeping his true identity hidden from the unsuspecting widow and her son.