The Origin Of Tonto

Originally Aired: December 7, 1938The Lone Ranger #915, "The Origin Of Tonto," reveals the legendary first meeting between the masked man and his faithful companion. In the mining region of Washoe County, partners Bob Reed and Dan Slade strike it rich when a blasting charge reveals a massive gold vein. Their celebration is interrupted when they discover an Indian named Tonto has been injured in the explosion. While the compassionate Bob wants to help the wounded man, the cruel Dan Slade draws his gun, declaring that a dead Indian is a good Indian. At that crucial moment, a masked stranger intervenes and orders them to save Tonto's life.The story unfolds through the recollections of Cactus Pete, the wandering musician who knew the Lone Ranger well. As Pete tells a group of cowboys around the campfire, Dan reluctantly agrees to nurse Tonto back to health at his shack. Meanwhile, money pours in from the successful mine, and Dan spends it freely in town while something darker brews in his scheming mind. The tale explores themes of greed, prejudice, and the fateful circumstances that brought together the West's most famous partnership.