Chester’s Dilemma | Gunsmoke (01-31-60)

Summary

Gunsmoke Podcast Episode Summary: "Chester’s Dilemma"

Introduction

In the episode titled "Chester’s Dilemma," hosted by Andrew Rines, listeners are transported back to Dodge City, Kansas, during the tumultuous settlement of the American West. This episode delves into themes of loyalty, gratitude, and moral dilemmas faced by those lawmen tasked with maintaining order in a rapidly changing frontier.

Setting the Scene

The story unfolds in the Marshal’s office, where Matt Dillon, portrayed by William Conrad, oversees the operations alongside his trusted assistant, Chester Proudfoot (Harley Bear Hutchinson). The office is abuzz with the daily grind of managing mail and addressing the community's concerns. Edna Wahlstrom, a young woman employed at the store, becomes a pivotal character as the narrative progresses.

Character Interactions and Developments

Early in the episode, tensions arise between Doc (Howard McNear) and Marshal Dillon regarding Chester’s recent behavior. Doc observes, “[06:16] Doc: Alice, who is it? Helps now with your cleaning. I need somebody.” This highlights the strain within the office dynamics, as Doc expresses concerns over both his physical ailments and the well-being of his colleague.

Chester Proudfoot emerges as a central figure, exhibiting signs of weariness and disillusionment. Marshal Dillon confronts the issue, stating, “[10:02] Chester Proudfoot: Yeah. [10:03] Andrew Rines: Well, now, you're sure that's the move you want to make? I guess so.” This exchange underscores Chester’s internal conflict and Dillon’s role in addressing it.

Edna Wahlstrom’s character is introduced as someone yearning for a different life, subtly expressing her desire to leave Dodge City. Her interactions with Chester reveal a budding connection, illustrated when she remarks, “[07:00] Edna Wahlstrom: Texas Sam. Oh, what a mean, terrible looking person." This moment sets the stage for the unfolding dilemma.

The Dilemma Unfolds

As the plot thickens, Edna Wahlstrom finds herself in a precarious situation when Chester Proudfoot arrests her for tampering with the U.S. mail. Edna asserts, “[21:20] Edna Wahlstrom: Well, I. I know, Marshall. Chester said he liked me very much, but if he didn't arrest me, he'd be even guiltier than. Than I am.” This accusation forces Marshal Dillon to investigate the truth behind the charges, leading to revelations about Chester’s unwavering loyalty.

Through a series of interrogations and flashbacks, it becomes evident that Chester feels unappreciated for his diligent work. Doc offers insight, “[11:00] Doc: Chester is a victim of your ingratitude,” prompting Marshal Dillon to reflect on his leadership style. This realization is pivotal, as Dillon acknowledges the importance of recognizing and valuing his team’s efforts.

The climax of the episode occurs when Edna Wahlstrom confesses her predicament, revealing that her employer, Hans Gruber, coerced her into her current situation. Dillon unveils his plan to resolve the conflict, stating, “[27:58] Andrew Rines: That's all right. You laugh, but you listen too. I've hired a couple, Jacob Glassnap and his missus, to run the farm.”

Conclusion and Resolution

In a heartwarming resolution, Edna and Chester decide to pursue a new life together in San Francisco, symbolizing a fresh start away from the challenges they faced in Dodge City. Edna expresses her gratitude, “[29:21] Edna Wahlstrom: Please lean over. Oh, Chester, I think you're the second nicest person I ever met. Goodbye.”

Marshal Dillon reflects on the lessons learned, emphasizing the significance of appreciation and support within his team. The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the values that define a true lawman, leaving listeners with a sense of closure and the importance of empathetic leadership.

Notable Quotes

• Doc on Chester’s Condition
  “[11:00] Doc: Chester is a victim of your ingratitude.”

• Marshal Dillon’s Realization
  “[18:13] Andrew Rines: Well, yes, sir, I remember it, but I just couldn't do that.”

• Edna Wahlstrom’s Accusation
  “[21:20] Edna Wahlstrom: Well, I. I know, Marshall. Chester said he liked me very much, but if he didn't arrest me, he'd be even guiltier than. Than I am.”

• Chester’s Plea
  “[25:27] Chester Proudfoot: Mr. Dillon, I've. Oh, dear.”

• Edna’s Gratitude
  “[29:21] Edna Wahlstrom: Please lean over. Oh, Chester, I think you're the second nicest person I ever met. Goodbye.”

Final Thoughts

"Chester’s Dilemma" masterfully weaves a narrative that explores the complexities of human emotions and the responsibilities that come with leadership. Through its rich character development and poignant dialogues, the episode underscores the importance of empathy, recognition, and the enduring bonds that hold a community together in the face of adversity.

For fans of classic Western dramas, this episode offers a compelling blend of action, suspense, and heartfelt moments, all set against the rugged backdrop of the American frontier.

Transcript

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hello, it is Ryan. And we could all use an extra bright spot in our day, couldn't we? Just to make up for things like sitting in traffic, doing the dishes, counting your steps. You know, all the mundane stuff. That is why I'm such a big fan of Chumba Casino. Chumba Casino has all your favorite social casino style games that you can play for free anytime, anywhere with daily bonuses that should brighten your day a little. Actually a lot. So sign up now@chumbac casino.com that's chumbacasino.com no purchase necessary. BTW, see terms and conditions 18.

[Indeed Representative]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites. With Indeed sponsored Jobs, your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit. To get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode at Absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode. Around Dodge City and in the territory on west, there's just one way to handle the killers and the spoilers and that's with a U.S. marshal and the Smell of Gun Smoke. Gun Smoke Starring William Conrad. The story of the violence that moved west with young America and the story of a man who moved with it. I'm that man. Matt Dillon, United States Marshal. The first man they look for and the last they want to meet. It's a chance, a job, and it makes a man watchful and a little lonely.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hello, it is Ryan. And I was on a flight the other day playing one of my favorite social speech slot games on chumbacasino.com I looked over the person sitting next to me and you know what they were doing? They were also playing Chumba Casino. Coincidence? I think not. Everybody's loving having fun with it. Chumba Casino is home to hundreds of casino style games that you can play for free anytime, anywhere, even at 30,000ft so sign up [e-mail] to claim your free welcome bonus. That's chumbacasino.com and live the Chumba life. No purchase necessary. DGW terms and conditions 18 plus.

[Doc]

Alice, who is it? Helps now with your cleaning. I need somebody. Thought you did your own work.

[Andrew Rines]

I always have.

[Doc]

But lately I've had a nagging backache with sleepless nights and feel tired out. I know what discomfort backache can be. Better do something about it. But what? Try Doan's Pills.

[Andrew Rines]

Good advice. That's Doan's Pills, an analgesic and mild diuretic to the kidneys. Nagging backache also headache, dizziness and muscular aches and pains may come on with overexertion, emotional upsets or everyday stress and strain. Doan's Pain relieving action is often the answer. And they also offer mild diuretic action through the kidneys. So if nagging backache is making you feel worn out, tired and miserable with restless sleepless nights, don't wait. Try Doan's Pills, used successfully by millions for over 60 years. See if they don't bring you the same welcome relief. Get Doan's Pills today to save money by Doan's big economy size. Hmm. Now I sure can't find your order, Miss Kitty.

[Doc]

Oh, don't worry about it, Mr. Jonas.

[Andrew Rines]

I saw Edna getting things together, but what she did.

[Doc]

Mr. Jonas, I don't mind waiting, man, it bothers me.

[Andrew Rines]

Now, she should stay here till 5:00, but no, every afternoon come 4:30 she has to run off to the boarding house, change her clothes, comb her hair and freshen up, as she keeps saying.

[Doc]

Well, if she's not a good worker, why do you keep her on?

[Andrew Rines]

No, no, no, no, I didn't say that. She's a fine worker. As a matter of fact, I'd hate to lose her.

[Doc]

Lose her?

[Andrew Rines]

Well, she keeps talking about San Francisco and how she'd like to live there.

[Doc]

Maybe it's only talk.

[Andrew Rines]

Oh, I don't think so. I get the notion that Dodge is just the place she ran out of money and as soon as she saves up enough, she'll be on her way.

[Doc]

Did she ever tell you where she's from?

[Andrew Rines]

A farm someplace in Ohio, I think. One day we got to talking about hogs and milk cows and she let it slip. Almost bit her tongue off after she said it.

[Doc]

You think she's ashamed of being raised on a farm?

[Andrew Rines]

No, it ain't that a funny thing. It's more like she was Scared like she had to keep it a secret.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, I'm back, Mr. Jonas. I'll just tidy up the counter. Oh, Miss Kitty.

[Doc]

Hello, Edna. My, you look pretty.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, thank you.

[Andrew Rines]

Miss Kitty's waiting for her order, Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, I've got it all wrapped and setting on the counter here.

[Doc]

That was very thoughtful.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, I knew you'd be in, So I told Mr. Jonas rather than have you wait, I'd get it ready and he could give it to you. Here you are.

[Doc]

Thank you.

[Chester Proudfoot]

It's almost 5:00. Are you ready to. Afternoon, Miss Kitty.

[Doc]

Hello, Chester.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I'm already. Mr. Proudfoot. You have to forgive the way I look, but I have been working all day and a person does get a little wilted.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, ma'am.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, shall we go? See you in the morning, Mr. Jonas.

[Andrew Rines]

All right, Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Nice seeing you, Miss Kitty.

[Doc]

Nice seeing you. And you too, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, it was very nice.

[Doc]

Mr. Jonas. I think you're wrong.

[Andrew Rines]

Huh? About what?

[Doc]

San Francisco. I think Dodge City is as far west as Edna plans to get.

[Andrew Rines]

Goodbye.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, I just think trains are the Most exciting thing, Mr. Proudfoot, don't you? All that black smoke and huffing and puffing and the way the whistle screamed. It's like a big wild animal. Or a dragon.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, no, I never quite thought of it that way, but with all the suit.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Would you mind if I just held onto your arm till it leaves?

[Chester Proudfoot]

No, ma'am. Not if you're really scared.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, my, but you're strong.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, and you must be very brave too, working with Marshall Dylan the way you do fighting Indians.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, we don't fight many Indians anymore.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Mostly capturing rustlers and horse thieves and trains.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, every once in a while we.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I'll bet you've saved his life lots of times.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Oh, Mr. Has a way of looking after himself. Oh, there she goes.

[Andrew Rines]

Very my Jing.

[Chester Proudfoot]

You know, it is pretty exciting at that.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, it certainly is.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Here's the Marshal's Mailchester. Oh, thank you, Charlie. I just come in and get it.

[Andrew Rines]

You think you and your pretty little helper here can carry all that by yourselves?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Oh, sure, Charlie. This little bit ain't so much to get.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Charlie sure is a josher.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I'll bet there are real important things in those letters once in a while.

[Andrew Rines]

He is.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Don't seem to be much today, though. Just three wanted circlers.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Could. Could I see one of them?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, I guess. Ain't no harm. They're gonna be posted anyway. Yeah.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Texas Sam. Oh, what a mean, terrible looking person.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, that ain't a Very good likeness of him. He's usually.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, don't show me the other. I. I don't want to know about such people.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, all right, but you ask.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I would like to see those envelopes.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, now, Ms. Edna, the U.S. mail is sort of sacred, like.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, Chester, just let me look. My, The Department of the interior in Washington, D.C. and the U.S. marshal's office in St. Louis. Oh, my, all that important mail. It is a responsibility, isn't it?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, yes, ma'am, it is. And I think I better walk you on home now so as I can take the mail over at the office.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

All right.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Mr. Doane likes to look at it before he goes out to supper.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, ma'am?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

This boardwalk's terribly rough. Would you mind if I took your arm?

[Andrew Rines]

I see.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yeah.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, now, you're sure that's the move you want to make? I guess so. Yeah. That makes three games in a row. And I suppose I should feel flush.

[Chester Proudfoot]

With victory, but I find absolutely no.

[Andrew Rines]

Satisfaction in beating a half hearted opponent. What are you talking about? Come on, mate, out with it. Well, you'll know sooner or later anyway. Chester. Chester. Has he been up to see you? No. Why, is he sick? Well, something's wrong with him. Well, what are his symptoms? What does he do? Nothing. Well, then what makes you think those are his symptoms? Doc? He doesn't do anything when he's here. He walks around with a blank expression. He doesn't hear anything I say. This place hasn't been swept up in a week. I've had to make coffee for the last two mornings. And day before yesterday, that drifter we had in the cell didn't get any supper. That doesn't sound like Chester. That's what I'm talking about. Now, do you have any idea what might be bothering him? As a matter of fact, I do. And the only thing that amazes me is that it hasn't happened long before this. Well, what is it, Doc? Chester is a victim of your ingratitude. What? Now, Doc, I know may sound silly, but it's a fact. Look, Doc. Now, wait. You ask my opinion and I'm gonna give it to you. I've seen cases like this before. A man goes on year after year doing his job and then suddenly one day he asks himself why. Oh, sure, he gets paid for it, but he has to feel that what he's doing is important. That the person he works for appreciates his efforts. If he is not appreciated, all the spunk goes out of him and he begins to think maybe he should Find something else to do. You mean Chester's thinking about quitting? I wouldn't be a bit surprised. So tell me, Matt, when was the last time you said something nice? Something nice? Look, I can't run this office like a Sunday school doc if I have to pat Chester on the head every time he does. All right, all right. You asked me and I told you. But you just go on like you have been. No word of thanks or no praise, barking orders, expecting things to be done day after day. Well, maybe. You certainly wouldn't want to lose a man like Chester because of your own stubbornness. Well, I. No, I wouldn't duck. Okay, I'll do something about it.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest. Life comes at you fast, which is why it's important to find some time to relax a little. You time. Enter Chumba Casino. With no download required, you can jump on anytime, anywhere for the chance to redeem some serious prizes. So treat yourself with Chumba Casino and play over 100 online casino style games, all for free. Go to Chumbacasino.com to collect your free welcome bonus. Sponsored by Chumba Casino.

[Andrew Rines]

No purchase necessary. VGW Group Void where prohibited by law. 21 + terms and conditions apply.

[Indeed Representative]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

There she goes.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, sire. There goes that old dragon.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, it sure is exciting.

[Chester Proudfoot]

It sure is. Well, let's go pick up the mail. Old Charlie must have it sorted out for now.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, but you'll have time to walk home with me, won't you?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Oh, well, of course I will.

[Andrew Rines]

I see you got your pretty little helper with you again, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

I sure have. Mail sorted yet, Charlie.

[Andrew Rines]

Yep. Here you are.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Thank you. Oh. See you tomorrow.

[Andrew Rines]

See you tomorrow. Both of you.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

You know, Chester, you're the nicest person I ever met.

[Chester Proudfoot]

I am? Well, I've.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, it's true. And I'll tell you something else.

[Chester Proudfoot]

What?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

This is a secret. Lean over so I can whisper it in your ear.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, you can just say it right out. Nobody can't hear it.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Lean over. That's what I think of you, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, now, Miss Edna, that's very. I don't think Front Street's a place to.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, it's all right, Chester. I don't care who knows.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, I think I'd better take you home on account of Mr. Dillon Be mad if he don't get his mail this up.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Time must be very important. Mail tonight. Let me.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Here now. You shouldn't do that, Miss Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Let's see. One from the Department of Defense circular.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Please give it back to me, Miss Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

A catalog of firearms and ammunition. Another circular. A letter from Ohio. Oh, I dropped that silly old catalog.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Never mind, I'll get it.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Oh.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Chester Proudfoot]

It ain't hurt none. Just the new Granger catalog I sent for.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Here are the letters.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Thank you, Miss Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

What's the matter?

[Chester Proudfoot]

There was another letter here.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

There was?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, ma'am, you know there was. You had it right in your hand when. There it is. Where, Chester, you stuck it in your shirtwaist there.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

What makes you so sure that's your letter?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, it has to be.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Mr. Proudfoot, are you accusing me of stealing a silly old letter?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, no, ma'am. I suppose it could have got there by accident.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

If you're so sure, why don't you just take it away from me? Well, but if you try, I'd scream like anything. And everybody in Dodge would think that Chester Proudfoot was a big, nasty old brute.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Miss Edna. Miss Edna, I've. Oh, dear.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, good Morning, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Morning, Mr. Dawn. Sorry I didn't get your breakfast this morning.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, every man has the right to sleep late now and then, hasn't he? I think it's kind of good to eat breakfast out once in a while anyway.

[Chester Proudfoot]

I'm sorry. I just didn't close my eyes. Left her sun up, Ms. Dunn. Just tossed and turned. Tossed.

[Andrew Rines]

You know, Chester, I think you've been working too hard. I think you should take a couple of days, pack your saddlebag and take your fishing pole and ride out and just loaf a little. You remember that little stream that cuts off the Arkansas?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, yes, sir, I remember it, but I just couldn't do that.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, I can manage without you here for a couple of days.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Mr. Dillon, if you want me to go away, you don't have to be nice about it. I understand.

[Andrew Rines]

Chester, I didn't say I want you to go away.

[Chester Proudfoot]

You said you could manage without me for two days.

[Andrew Rines]

Chester, I figured that you needed a rest, a change. Now, look, you've got a tough job. Well, I got a tough job, too. Any marshal has. But if he doesn't have help that he can count on, his job is twice as tough. Now, you're a good assistant. You're loyal and you're dependable. Shut up. I'm not finished yet. Now, when I'm out on the prairie four or five days a week at a time, I gotta have a companion I can stand to live with. Well, most of the time, I can stand you. Now, does that sound like I'm trying to get rid of you? Well, does it?

[Chester Proudfoot]

No, sir.

[Andrew Rines]

All right.

[Chester Proudfoot]

And thank you very much. You just helped me make up my mind about something very important.

[Andrew Rines]

All right, then. Now make up your mind to clean up this rat's nest from top to bottom before I get back. I'm going over the long branch.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, sir, Mr. Dillon.

[Andrew Rines]

I don't know. Kidding, I guess. I was pretty hard on him, but maybe it helped. Anyway, sweet talking him seemed to make him feel worse.

[Doc]

And that was Doc's idea, huh?

[Andrew Rines]

Yeah, he figured Chester needed some encouragement.

[Doc]

And what did you figure?

[Andrew Rines]

Nothing. I just got tired of him mooning around like a lovesick cat and neglecting his work.

[Doc]

You said it, I didn't.

[Andrew Rines]

Huh? Said what?

[Doc]

Mooning like a lovesick cat.

[Andrew Rines]

What? Oh, not Kitty Chester. Whoa. Who?

[Doc]

Edna Wahlstrom.

[Andrew Rines]

You mean the little girl that Jonah's hired to work in the store?

[Doc]

She's not exactly a little girl. She's 22 if she's a day. And she set her cap for Chester.

[Andrew Rines]

What? Kitty Chester isn't the kind to go chasing after girls.

[Doc]

I said she set her cap for him.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, what do you know?

[Doc]

Speak of the devil.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Mr. Dillon.

[Andrew Rines]

Wow. Chester. Ms. Walstrom. Marshall, I think you know Ms. Kitty Russell, don't you?

[Doc]

Oh, yes.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Yes, I do. Good evening, Miss Kitty.

[Doc]

Well, won't you sit down?

[Chester Proudfoot]

Thank you. Uh, Mr. Dillon. Now, Miss Walstrom's got something to tell you.

[Andrew Rines]

All right.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I'm under arrest, Marshall.

[Andrew Rines]

What?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Chester arrested me for tampering with the US mail.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Now, you didn't open the letter, Ms. Edden, so that just makes it interfering instead of tampering.

[Andrew Rines]

Now, that's still a pretty serious charge with Walter.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, I. I know, Marshall. Chester said he liked me very much, but if he didn't arrest me, he'd be even guiltier than. Than I am. Because it wouldn't be loyal to you. And that a marshal has to be able to trust his assistant in everything.

[Andrew Rines]

Who was this letter addressed to?

[Doc]

To you, Marshall.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Here it is. It's Mr. Gruber back on a farm near Akron, Ohio. And it's all a lie.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, if you haven't opened it, how do you know it's a lie?

[Chester Proudfoot]

See, Mr. Dillon, this Mr. Gruber wrote to Ms. Eden about a week ago and told her what he was going to do if she didn't take the next train back to Ohio.

[Andrew Rines]

Well, let's find out.

[Chester Proudfoot]

If only you would have told me about this, Ms. Edna, instead of just.

[Andrew Rines]

Trying to steal the letter.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

But I just didn't know what to do, Chester. I thought if the marshal didn't know about it. Oh, Mr. Gruber would leave me alone.

[Chester Proudfoot]

I know, but.

[Andrew Rines]

Now, Ms. Walstrom, did you steal $200 from this Mr. Gruber?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

No, sir, Marshall, I didn't. He gave it to me. It was a loan.

[Andrew Rines]

But he says here that you signed a confession.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

He told me I was signing a.

[Andrew Rines]

Note telling me the truth now.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Yes, sir, I am.

[Andrew Rines]

And we'll find out who's lying tomorrow.

[Chester Proudfoot]

What do you mean, Mr. D?

[Andrew Rines]

Gruber's getting in the Dodge at 10 tomorrow morning.

[Indeed Representative]

Ch.

[Andrew Rines]

Ch.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Chumba looking for excitement. Chumba Casino is here. Play anytime. Play anywhere.

[Indeed Representative]

Play on the train.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Play at the store. Play at home. Play when you're bored. Play today for your chance to win and get daily bonuses when you log in. So what are you waiting for? Don't delay. Chumba Casino is free to play.

[Indeed Representative]

Experience social gameplay like never before. Go to Chumba Casino right now to play hundreds of games, including online slots, bingo, Slingo and more. Live the chumba [e-mail] no purchase necessary.

[Andrew Rines]

VGW Group void where prohibited by law 21 terms and conditions apply.

[Indeed Representative]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job posts seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed. And listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on This podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring indeed is all you need.

[Andrew Rines]

When somebody breaks the law, they should be in jail. That may be true, Mr. Gruber, but this jail wasn't built for women. I'm still not sure that the law was broken. You got my letter. I sent you her confession. I know. And if you'd filed a complaint back in Ohio, I can hold her here in Dodge until they can send somebody to take her back. But I am already here. I will take her back, Mr. Gruber. The law just doesn't work that way.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Here's the Telegraph, Mr. Dunn, from the Akron police.

[Andrew Rines]

You read it, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, Right then.

[Andrew Rines]

Now you read it, Marshall. Complaint against Edna Wahlstrom filed here by Hans Gruber, January 10th. Charge theft. Presently in your city. Please apprehend and hold for extradition. So now I want her arrested.

[Chester Proudfoot]

She's not no criminal, Mr. Dillon.

[Andrew Rines]

Oh, you think not?

[Chester Proudfoot]

No, I don't. She's a fine person. And if she done something wrong, she must have had real good reason.

[Andrew Rines]

Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

I'm sorry, Mr. Dillon, but I'm real upset.

[Andrew Rines]

Now, look here.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Look here. I think Miss Edna is all right. Fine lady. And I just won't believe she can do anything really bad like stealing your money. She works awful hard, and she's awful nice, and she's awful pretty, and.

[Andrew Rines]

And. And.

[Chester Proudfoot]

And she wouldn't do a thing like that.

[Andrew Rines]

You. You have got a lot to learn, young.

[Chester Proudfoot]

That may be, but there's one thing I do know. I know if you say one mean thing to her when she gets here, if you try to scare her one little bit, it's gonna make me madder than I am.

[Andrew Rines]

Are you threatening me, Chester? Chester, nobody's going to intimidate her. I'll see to that. Now, you just calm down, and I promise you we'll get to the bottom of this just as soon as we can.

[Doc]

There she is. Math.

[Andrew Rines]

Oh, hello, kitty. Come on in. Ms. Wahlstrom. Ms. Wahlstrom, do you know this man?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

That's Mr. Gruber.

[Andrew Rines]

Hello, Edna. Why did you do it, Edna?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Mr. Gruber, you told me when I signed that paper that now everything was all right. You know I was going to pay it back.

[Andrew Rines]

I. I don't mean about the money. But why did you run away? Everybody laughs at me.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I can't help that, Mr. Gruber. I had to do it.

[Andrew Rines]

But why?

[Doc]

I'll tell you why. No, Matt, this is important. Mr. Gruber, you're a widower, aren't you?

[Andrew Rines]

That's right. Four years now.

[Doc]

And Edna here was your Housekeeper. Your hired girl, huh?

[Andrew Rines]

Yeah.

[Doc]

How much did you pay her?

[Andrew Rines]

Well, not so much. Maybe money, but there's room and board. I bought goods so she could make clothes.

[Doc]

And on fair day one Friday a month, you took her to town with you, along with the chickens and eggs and pigs. And you gave her two whole dollars to spend, Is that right?

[Andrew Rines]

Yes.

[Doc]

And for that she kept the house, did the baking, the cooking, the washing and ironing, fed the pigs and fed the chickens and gathered the eggs. And when she wanted to leave, you wouldn't lend enough money to live for two weeks while she went looking for another job.

[Andrew Rines]

Yeah, that is so. But I didn't want her to go away. She was always talking about San Francisco and I was afraid that if she had money, she would go there.

[Doc]

But you made it easy for her to steal the $200. Then you made her sign that silly confession so that you could use it to frighten her into staying on the farm.

[Andrew Rines]

Is that the story, Gruber? Yeah, that's the story. You must be very proud of yourself. No. No, I am not. That's why I had to find you.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Edna, I don't even want to talk to you.

[Andrew Rines]

Mr. Gruber, please listen. I had to find you because. Well, because I want you to be Mrs. Gruber.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

What?

[Andrew Rines]

That's all right. You laugh, but you listen too. I've hired a couple, Jacob Glassnap and his missus, to run the farm. And you know the little house with the green shutters? The shape of place we used to pass going to town? The one you always liked so much.

[Doc]

What about it?

[Andrew Rines]

I bought it.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, that's very nice, Mr. Groover, but.

[Andrew Rines]

Wait, I'm not finished. Look here in this envelope. Go ahead, look.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Two tickets to San Francisco.

[Andrew Rines]

And I wrote to the Palace Hotel. They will get us married and we will stay there and we'll buy some fancy clothes and we'll go to the show houses. Oh, Mr. Gruber. Oh, I. I want you should call me Hans. Edna.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Oh, Hans. Hans, you're the nicest person I ever met.

[Andrew Rines]

There is a stage at 5:15 if you can get past.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I can, Aunt. I can, but we'll have to hurry. You come with me and we'll get everything together.

[Andrew Rines]

Oh, what about this warrant? Oh, I. I will write to them from San Francisco. Just forget all about it, please. Oh, that's about that.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Well, I'm just so excited, I almost went off without saying goodbye. Miss Kitty, thank you so much for helping me and Marshall. I'm sorry I took the letter. Really I am. And. And. Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Yes, ma'am?

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Please lean over.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Well, I.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Please. Oh, Chester, I think you're the second nicest person I ever met. Goodbye.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Goodbye, Ms. Edden.

[Doc]

I'm sorry, Chester.

[Chester Proudfoot]

Oh, that's all right, Ms. Kitty. You. It's just Mr. Dillon. Some people. Sure is hard to figure out.

[Andrew Rines]

Chester, if by some people you mean women, they certainly are.

[Ryan Seacrest]

How to have fun anytime, anywhere step one go to chumbacasino.com chumbacasino.com Got it.

[Indeed Representative]

Step two collect your welcome bonus.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Come to papa. Welcome bonus.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Step 3 Play hundreds of casino style games for free.

[Ryan Seacrest]

That's a lot of games all for free.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Step 4 Unleash your excitement.

[Indeed Representative]

Chumba Casino has been delivering thrills for over a decade. So claim your free welcome bonus now and live the chumba life. Visit chumbacasino.com no purchase necessary.

[Andrew Rines]

VGW Group void where prohibited by law 21 terms and conditions apply.

[Indeed Representative]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit. To get your jobs more visibility@ Indeed.com Arts. Just go to Indeed.com Arts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need.

[Andrew Rines]

Gun Smoke, produced and directed in Hollywood by Norman McDonald, stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, U.S. marshal. The story was specially written for Gun Smoke by Vic Parron with editorial supervision by John Mess. Featured in the cast were Barbara Eiler, Joseph Kearns and Vic Perrin. Harley Bear is Chester, Howard McNear is Doc and Georgia Ellis is kidding. This is George Walsh inviting you to join us again next week when CBS Radio presents another story on Gun Smoke Foreign 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 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.

[Ryan Seacrest]

How to have fun anytime, anywhere. Step 1 Go to chumbacasino.com chumbacasino.com Got it.

[Indeed Representative]

Step 2 Collect your welcome bonus.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Come to papa. Welcome bonus.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Step 3 Play hundreds of casino style games for free.

[Ryan Seacrest]

That's a lot of games all for free.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

Step 4 Unleash your excitement. Woo hoo. Chumba Chumba Casino has been delivering thrills.

[Indeed Representative]

For over a decade. So claim your free welcome bonus now and live the chumba life. Visit chumbacasino.com no purchase necessary vgw group.

[Andrew Rines]

Void where prohibited by law 21 + terms and conditions apply.

[Indeed Representative]

You just realized your business needed to hire someone yesterday. How can you find amazing candidates fast? Easy. Just use Indeed. Stop struggling to get your job post seen on other job sites with Indeed sponsored jobs. Your post jumps to the top of the page for your relevant candidates so you can reach the people you want faster. According to Indeed data, sponsored jobs posted directly on indeed have 45% more applications than non sponsored jobs. Don't wait any longer. Speed up your hiring right now with Indeed and listeners of this show will get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at indeed.comararts. just go to indeed.comarts right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. Hiring Indeed is all you need. Geico's motorcycle expertise means I'm covered by people who know bikes like I do.

[Edna Wahlstrom]

I'm happy as a clam.

[Ryan Seacrest]

No conclusive scientific research has shown clams can experience happiness.

[Indeed Representative]

I just meant that I feel really.

[Andrew Rines]

Good about my coverage. I mean, even if you took the climb out for the the best day ever, visiting the zoo, taking a scenic ride, knowing you're insured by specialists, and.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Sharing a strawberry ice cream cone together, the clam would not feel happy and your strawberry cone would taste sort of clammy.

[Andrew Rines]

Geico's Motorcycle specialists who know bikes like.

[Ryan Seacrest]

You do assume no liability for clammy ice cream cones. Geico expertise for your motorcycle.