
Original Air Date: February 07, 1960Host: Andrew RhynesShow: GunsmokePhone: (707) 98 OTRDW (6-8739) Stars:• William Conrad (Matt Dillion)• Parley Baer (Chester)• Georgia Ellis (Kitty)• Howard McNear (Doc) Special Guests:• Virginia Christine• Lawrence D...
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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 absolutely free. This is one of over 80 episodes released monthly for your enjoyment. Now let's get into this episode.
William Conrad
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.
Matt Dillon
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 chancy job and it makes a man watchful and a little lone.
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Doc
Oh Kitty, it's you. Come in, come in.
Kitty
Yeah, it's me. Such As I am.
Doc
It's a little early for dinner, isn't it? Besides, you didn't have to come up here after me.
Kitty
Oh, this is a professional call, Doc. Take a look at my eye, will you?
Doc
Well, sure I will, Kitty. Come over here at the light.
Chester
Sit down.
Doc
Now, which one is bothering you?
Kitty
You see, Doc.
Chester
Yeah, I see.
Kitty
There's something in it, I think.
Doc
Sit still.
Chester
Oh, yes, yes. Now, let's see.
Kitty
You think you can get it, Doc?
Doc
Ah, there it is.
Kitty
See it? On this piece of cotton, well, you can hardly see. Felt like a whole scuttle of coal.
Doc
It doesn't take much to make your eye feel that way. I'll give you something to wash it.
Chester
Out with for a day or two.
Kitty
Okay, Doc.
Doc
You heard from Matt, huh?
Kitty
Not a word.
Doc
Seems to me he expected to be back by now.
Kitty
Well, he did. There's a trial starting up at Hays City today or tomorrow. I think Matt's supposed to testify.
Chester
Oh, yes. Yes, you're right.
Doc
I remember that now. Well, maybe he and Chester are making a pleasure trip out of it, huh? Maybe they found some decent weather and aren't hurrying to get back.
Kitty
Well, it wouldn't take much to improve on the weather we've got here, I'll say that.
Chester
Yes, sir.
Doc
I bet you that what they're doing today, they're taking it nice and easy and enjoying some good weather away from Dodge.
Kitty
Done.
Matt Dillon
Yeah. Chester, I don't rightly see how you.
Doc
Can bar the trail no more through all this. Ain't nothing but moving mud.
Matt Dillon
I think I know where we are.
Chester
Sure be too bad, Marshall, if you wound up back in them mountains where you picked me up.
Matt Dillon
Don't worry about it, Keel. It wouldn't do you any good.
Chester
Yeah, my friends might say different. They ain't none too cozy about the law.
Matt Dillon
They didn't help you before. Well, now, we turned on here, Chester. I remember this dip in the trail.
Doc
It looks awful slidy, Mr. John.
Matt Dillon
Yeah. We better lead the horses. K. Look out there.
Doc
That horse sure went down hard.
Matt Dillon
Yeah. Come on. Let's see what the damage is. You hurt, K?
Chester
No, I don't think so.
Matt Dillon
All right, get up then. Stand mighty easy. How about the horse, Chester?
Doc
Ain't nothing broke that I can see.
Matt Dillon
See if you'll stand. Come on, boy.
Kitty
Come on. Come on. Come on.
Matt Dillon
All right, Walk him a little.
Kitty
Uh.
Doc
Oh, he's got a bad leg, all right.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, we'll have to rest him for a day or two.
Doc
Well, how are we gonna do that, Mr. Dillon? Stuck out in country like this we ain't gonna try to stay here, are we?
Matt Dillon
There used to be a small ranch not too far from here, if I can still find it. You walk, Keel. Lead that horse good and gentle. Barn's over this way. We'll head there.
Doc
You must have a bump of direction on you. Like a homing pigeon, Mr. Dunk.
Chester
Yeah, pigeon with blind luck.
Doc
You just watch where you're leading that horse kill, Mr. Dillon. Don't need no smart talk from you.
Kitty
You. You out there, Mr. Dillon.
Doc
Up on the porch, a woman.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, Chester, I see her.
Kitty
What do you want?
Matt Dillon
I'll be up to present myself, ma'am, as soon as I can see to the horses.
Kitty
You're welcome to find shelter in the barn, but don't come near the house.
Doc
Well, that ain't very friendly like in all this rain.
Matt Dillon
You take Keel and the horses over to the barn, Chester. I'll talk to her.
Doc
Yes, sir. Try to talk to her. Some coffee?
Matt Dillon
I'd like to talk to you, ma'am.
Kitty
All right, but I've got a gun.
Matt Dillon
I'm a U.S. marshal taking a prisoner, and I got a lame horse I like. Arrest him for a spell.
Kitty
I don't know you.
Matt Dillon
Well, I'm from Dodge City. Maybe your husband would know me. He used to know folks in this part of the territory.
Kitty
I've got no husband. What's your name?
Matt Dillon
Dillon. Matt Dillon.
Kitty
Matt Dillon.
Matt Dillon
Sounds like you heard of me yourself.
Kitty
Why, I certainly have. I'm Delia Robinson, Ben's daughter.
Matt Dillon
Oh.
Kitty
Well, you are the one who was Pa's friend, aren't you?
Matt Dillon
Yeah. Yeah, I was his friend.
Kitty
Well, Pa sure did think a lot of you.
Matt Dillon
Well, we did a lot of riding together.
Kitty
Well. Well, come on in. Come on in. It's no wonder you hunted out this place in the storm. You've probably been here lots of times, haven't you?
Matt Dillon
Yeah, a long time ago. I wasn't sure anybody'd be here.
Kitty
You. You knew my. My father had been killed?
Matt Dillon
Yeah, I knew.
Kitty
Well, I was with an aunt in Wichita. I come out here as soon as she'd let me. I kind of feel I belong here.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, I guess you do.
Kitty
Well, I'll put some coffee on the stove and you tell the others to come in.
Matt Dillon
Thanks, Vivian.
Kitty
No thanks necessary there. Pa would want it this way. You know how he was about a friend.
Matt Dillon
Yeah. Yeah, I know.
Doc
Well, I tell you, ma'am, that's better coffee than I can make, and that's a fact.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, that's a fact, all right.
Kitty
Here, let me pour you some more.
Doc
Well, ain't none to pour, ma'am. I just finished it off.
Kitty
Well, then I'll make some more.
Matt Dillon
Oh, no, ma'am. No, not for him. You want it, you gotta get along. Chester.
Doc
Yes, sir. I expect you're right.
Matt Dillon
You got it straight now?
Doc
Yes, sir. I go into town and send a telegraph to the the judge about how you're stuck out here for a day or two until Keel's horse can carry him again.
Matt Dillon
That's right.
Doc
And then I get on into Hayes City as fast as I can. Now, Mr. Dillon, what makes you think they'll let me testify instead of you? I ain't the marshal.
Matt Dillon
You were there at the shooting, weren't you?
Doc
Well, yes, sir, I was there.
Matt Dillon
Well, you don't have to be a marshal to tell what you saw, do you? Now, you get going.
Doc
Yes, sir, I'm going. I just told I don't get lost in this storm.
Kitty
You won't. I'm going with you.
Doc
Oh, well, now, that ain't necessary, Ms.
Matt Dillon
D. He'll find it all right. He just likes to complain.
Kitty
Well, it won't be easy in the dark and storm. Matt, that road winds around pretty good. I can lead him.
Matt Dillon
Well, there's no need for you to go out and.
Kitty
Well, I was going anyway. It's my night to sit with old Miss Pike.
Matt Dillon
But, Delia, it's not necessary.
Kitty
I do this every week and I spend the night in town.
Chester
You afraid be left here alone with me, Marshall?
Matt Dillon
Shut up, kid.
Chester
That little lady could protect.
Matt Dillon
I warned you to keep your mouth shut when we came in here. You better get going before it gets any darker. Chester.
Doc
Yes, sir.
Matt Dillon
You ride through as straight as you can.
Doc
Yes, sir, I will.
Kitty
I'll set him on the road just as good as Pa could do it.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, dad, I'm sure you will.
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Mr. Weems
It seems to be a man ought to be able to suffer in peace.
Kitty
Never mind, Mr. Weems. They'll keep it hot for you.
Doc
It ain't a very long telegraph coming.
Mr. Weems
In, pulling a man away from the table. That way it ain't decent.
Kitty
Then. Then you shouldn't be the only man in town who knows how to send a telegram.
Mr. Weems
Ain't nothing so important it couldn't have waited. My rights. I shouldn't be opening up till tomorrow morning anyway.
Kitty
Oh, cheer up, Mr. Weems.
Mr. Weems
It won't take long tramping around in the mud and the rain.
Doc
Look here, mister, you got a job to do, ain't you?
Mr. Weems
Nobody ain't never complained about the way I do my job.
Doc
Well, I'm about to.
Kitty
Now, you stop your fussing, both of you.
Mr. Weems
I had the place all locked up for the night. Well, come in, come in. Now that you're here, I got to get the line opened up.
Kitty
Sure is funny the way things happen, running into Pa's friend after all these years.
Mr. Weems
You mean to tell me this one was a friend of your pa's?
Doc
No, no, not exactly, no.
Kitty
No, not this one. Matt Dillon. He's out at the place.
Mr. Weems
Dylan?
Kitty
That's right, Mr. Weems. He rode in this afternoon. Didn't know I was there, of course.
Mr. Weems
I'll bet he didn't.
Kitty
What do you mean by that?
Mr. Weems
He wouldn't have come if he'd knowed.
Kitty
Well, that doesn't make any sense, Mr. Weems. Well, I've never done anything to scare him away that I know of.
Mr. Weems
It ain't seemly that you joke about it.
Kitty
I'm not joking, Mr. Weems. I was just glad to see him, that's all. Good friend of Pa's.
Mr. Weems
Like he was such a good friend that he killed him.
Kitty
What did you say?
Mr. Weems
Oh, well, now, I'm sorry if you didn't know it, Delia, but I still stick to what I say.
Doc
I'd be mighty doggone sure what I say. And Mr. Dillon ain't a man to kill a friend.
Mr. Weems
Well, the whole trouble town knows about it.
Kitty
Tell me what you mean.
Mr. Weems
Oh, now, Delia.
Kitty
Go on, Mr. Weems. Tell me.
Mr. Weems
Well, now, Delia, I. I ain't liking it that I'm the one to tell you.
Kitty
Tell me.
Mr. Weems
Well, it ain't exactly like Dylan pulled the trigger on Ben.
Doc
I'd bet my boots on that.
Mr. Weems
It amounted to the same thing, though.
Kitty
Tell me what happened. Happened?
Mr. Weems
Well, your pa, he was in some kind of ambush out there at the place. Dylan come by and wouldn't raise a hand to help him. He was just standing there when Ben was shot down.
Doc
I don't believe it.
Kitty
Why didn't somebody tell me this before?
Mr. Weems
Why, I. I guess folks figured it'd be easier if you didn't know.
Doc
Well, you sure made her feel easier about it right now, ain't you?
Mr. Weems
It's different with Dylan out there at the place. It ain't right that she shouldn't know.
Kitty
No, it sure isn't. I want you to get out of here.
Matt Dillon
I thought you were coming back till morning.
Kitty
I don't want you here. I don't want you here till morning.
Matt Dillon
What are you talking about?
Kitty
Pretending to be my father's friend.
Matt Dillon
Oh, so that's it, Ilya. I was your father's friend.
Kitty
So you killed him, is that it?
Matt Dillon
I didn't kill him.
Kitty
You might as well have. You let him die.
Matt Dillon
What did they tell you?
Kitty
They told me that you stood by and saw him shot down.
Matt Dillon
I tried to help him. Did you?
Mr. Weems
How?
Kitty
By turning your back.
Matt Dillon
I told him to give himself up, but he wouldn't. D. I don't blame the folks in town for keeping it from him, but I expect you had to find out someday.
Kitty
Find out what?
Matt Dillon
It was the law who killed your father. Did he? Not me.
Kitty
The law?
Matt Dillon
Yeah. Ben had pulled a hold up. He wanted to make his stake quicker than the two of us were doing it. Riding from job to job. Job. He always said he wanted things nice for you. Well, anyway, he held up a bank.
Kitty
And you turned him in.
Matt Dillon
No, I didn't turn him in.
Kitty
You rode with the law to get him there.
Matt Dillon
I didn't do that either. I was here with him, right in this room when the posse came.
Kitty
And you didn't help him?
Matt Dillon
I tried to get him to give himself up.
Kitty
But you wouldn't fight with him.
Matt Dillon
I'm sorry, Delia. I think this country needs the law. I always did.
Kitty
How? How did it happen?
Matt Dillon
He tried to break out, and I shot him. I. I buried him over the big tree.
Kitty
You expected me to thank you for that?
Matt Dillon
No, I don't expect you to thank me for anything. But I never considered your father less of a friend.
Kitty
Well, I consider you less of one. I want you to go now.
Matt Dillon
I'm sorry you feel that.
Kitty
I don't care how sorry you feel. I want you to get out.
Doc
Now.
Matt Dillon
You listen to me, Delia. I don't like it much, staying where I'm not wanted. But here's where I'm gonna stay until that horse out there can travel.
Kitty
You can?
Matt Dillon
I can and I will. I'll just hang on to this gun until we leave.
Kitty
Why did you dare?
Matt Dillon
I don't like it any better than you do, but that's the way it's going to be.
Kitty
Serv. You're right. If the storm spooked the horses right out of the barn, I'm going to.
Matt Dillon
Have a look at them. You just rest easy, did you? We'll be out of here just as soon as we can travel. Now, that's a promise.
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Chester
Hey, little lady.
Kitty
Oh, it's you.
Chester
I sure do admire your spirit, telling him off like that.
Kitty
He had it coming.
Chester
Oh, he sure did that and more. Calls himself a friend, that's what I say. That's a terrible thing. I know how you could get even.
Kitty
All the way, man my father trusted. What'd you say?
Chester
Well, you want to get even, don't you?
Kitty
Of course I do.
Chester
I know how you could do it, that's all.
Kitty
How's that?
Chester
You just cut me loose, that's all. Just as simple as that. That's all?
Kitty
Well, I don't know about that.
Doc
Oh, sure, you do, little lady.
Chester
Sure you do. Cut me loose and I'll take care of them for you. Just like your PA would have done.
Kitty
You're his prisoner. He.
Chester
He let your paw be a prisoner, too. Now, ain't that right? It's just a way to get things even for your pa.
Kitty
Well, maybe you're right.
Chester
Sure I am. Now cut me loose.
Kitty
Yeah, but he's got all the guns.
Chester
Well, it ain't gonna matter none. Look, all I got to do is I got to just be by that door when he comes in. I could smash him with a chair and we'll see who's got the gun. Come on, now. Come on. We ain't got all the time in the world. He ain't gonna be out there all night, you know.
Kitty
You sure you can do it?
Chester
I'm sure I can. Come on, cut this rope now. Oh, I sure do thank you, little lady. Oh, that does feel good to be able to stretch and bend a little.
Kitty
Mr. Keel?
Chester
Yeah?
Kitty
Will you. Will you have to kill him?
Chester
Well, now, ma'am, I spec that just depends on him.
Kitty
What do you mean?
Chester
Well, if he wants to give up nice and easy like I spec, maybe I. I might just tie him up and leave him.
Kitty
I don't think he'll do that.
Chester
No, I don't think so, neither. Kind of too bad, ain't it? You just better stand over there to the window.
Kitty
Why should I do that?
Chester
Well, so's you could tell me when he's coming. I'm going to get me something to eat. Go on, now. Get over to the window.
Kitty
You'll be able to hear him when he's.
Chester
Get over there, I said. That's right. I wouldn't want to have no trouble with you.
Kitty
What's the. What's the marshal taking you in for, Mr. Keel?
Chester
I killed a man, ma'am. Of course, I killed more than one this first time I caught me. You want some of this bread?
Kitty
No, thanks.
Chester
All right. I'm kind of good at it, if I do say it myself.
Kitty
Good at what?
Chester
Killing. Listen, little lady, you ain't doing your job. You should have told me he was coming. Just be quiet.
Matt Dillon
Be quiet while I get over here and hoist this chair.
Chester
Quiet, now.
Kitty
Just quiet. Miss out, don't you?
Chester
Do you.
Matt Dillon
All right, Keel. Just straighten out right there. Delia, hand me that rope.
Kitty
Yes, ma'am.
Chester
Double cross.
Matt Dillon
You ought to be grateful to her.
Chester
I don't see her.
Matt Dillon
She untied you so you could get a little exercise before I put the rope back on you. Now, Put your hands behind you there.
Kitty
Matt. Matt.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, I'm.
Kitty
I'm sorry. Yeah, I guess I. I think this country needs the law too.
Matt Dillon
Yeah, Delia. And the law doesn't come easy no matter what side you.
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William Conrad
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Kitty
Like acting with a miserable cold. I relieve cold distress the fast way with four way cold tablets.
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Kitty
Do what I do. Take four way cold tablets. It's the fast way to relieve nasty cold distress and feel better quickly.
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Matt Dillon
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William Conrad
Every trace of dandruff goes down the drain. Three minutes with Fitch Embarrassing. Dandruff's gone. Fitch can also leave hair up to 35% brighter. Get Fitch Dandruff Remover shampoo today. Gun Smoke produced and directed in Hollywood by Norman McDonald, stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, US Marshall the story was specially written for Gunsmoke by Marion Clark with editorial supervision by John Meston. Featured in the cast were Virginia, Christine, Lawrence Dobkin and Bartlett Robinson. Harley Bear is Chester, Howard McNear is Doc and Georgia Ellis is Kitty. This is George Walsh inviting you to join us again next week when CBS Radio presents another story on gun smoke.
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 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 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.
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Gunsmoke Episode Summary: "Delia’s Father" (02-07-60)
Released: March 30, 2025 | Host: Andrew Rines
In this riveting episode of "Gunsmoke," titled "Delia’s Father," listeners are plunged into the tumultuous aftermath of a tragic event that rocks the quiet Western town of Dodge City, Kansas. The narrative delves deep into themes of loyalty, justice, and redemption, centered around the complex relationship between Matt Dillon, the steadfast U.S. Marshal, and Delia Robinson, the daughter of a man whose death is shrouded in mystery and betrayal.
The episode opens with an accidental injury sustained by Kitty, a trusted member of the community, who visits Doc to address an eye irritation (Timestamp [03:55] - [07:12]). During their conversation, it becomes evident that Matt Dillon, the town's marshal, is expected to testify in a trial concerning recent violent events, leading to speculation about his whereabouts (Timestamp [07:12] - [10:03]).
As a storm rages, Matt and his companion Chester encounter Delia Robinson seeking shelter. The reunion is fraught with tension, revealing Delia’s deep-seated resentment towards Matt for his perceived role in her father Ben Robinson’s death (Timestamp [09:07] - [19:52]). This confrontation sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of past grievances and the quest for truth.
Matt Dillon (William Conrad): The principled U.S. Marshal who embodies law and order in Dodge City. His commitment to justice often places him at odds with those around him, including Delia Robinson.
Delia Robinson (Georgia Ellis): A strong-willed woman tormented by the loss of her father. Her interactions with Matt reveal a woman driven by pain and seeking answers.
Doc (Howard McNear): The town’s compassionate physician who acts as a mediator between conflicting parties.
Chester (Harley Bear): Matt’s loyal companion, providing support during critical moments.
Mr. Weems: A mysterious character whose revelations add layers of complexity to the central conflict.
Delia confronts Matt with accusations that he either caused or allowed her father's death, leading to an emotional showdown. At [17:35], Delia states:
“You killed him, is that it?” - Delia Robinson
Matt vehemently denies direct involvement, explaining that it was the law enforcing justice when her father attempted a bank hold-up. His defense is met with skepticism and anger from Delia, who feels betrayed by someone she once considered a friend of her father.
The tension escalates as Chester interferes, suggesting a way for Delia to exact revenge. In the heat of the moment, Chester proposes to Delia:
“You just cut me loose, that's all. Just as simple as that.” - Chester
This suggestion leads to a brief struggle where Chester attempts to overpower Matt. However, Matt swiftly regains control, showcasing his unwavering authority and dedication to maintaining peace. Delia’s internal conflict becomes palpable as she wrestles with her desire for vengeance versus her innate sense of justice.
In the final scenes, Delia grapples with the truth about her father’s death. Matt reveals:
“It was the law who killed your father. Did he? Not me.” - Matt Dillon [18:10]
Delia’s realization forces her to confront her emotions and reassess her perception of Matt. The episode concludes with a fragile understanding between Delia and Matt, hinting at future reconciliation.
Matt Dillon on his role:
“I’m that man. Matt Dillon, United States Marshal, the first man they look for and the last they want to meet.”
[02:20]
Delia’s accusation:
“You killed him, is that it?”
[17:35]
Matt’s justification:
“It was the law who killed your father. Did he? Not me.”
[18:10]
Doc’s mediation attempt:
“Well, I tell you, ma'am, that's better coffee than I can make, and that's a fact.”
[10:24]
Chester’s manipulative proposal:
“You just cut me loose, that's all. Just as simple as that.”
[22:27]
1. The Burden of Duty: Matt Dillon's unwavering commitment to the law often isolates him, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the name of justice.
2. The Complexity of Friendship: Delia's struggle with Matt, once a friend of her father, underscores the intricate dynamics of personal relationships intertwined with professional obligations.
3. The Quest for Truth: Delia's relentless pursuit to uncover the circumstances of her father's death emphasizes the human desire for understanding and closure.
4. Redemption and Forgiveness: The episode subtly explores the possibility of reconciliation and forgiveness, even amidst deep-seated pain and anger.
"Delia’s Father" serves as a poignant exploration of the ripple effects of violence and the pursuit of justice in a lawless land. Through masterful storytelling and compelling character interactions, the episode delves into the heartache of loss and the struggle to reconcile one's sense of duty with personal emotions. Matt Dillon stands as a pillar of righteousness, yet his actions leave lasting impacts on those around him, particularly Delia Robinson. As the storm subsides, the town of Dodge City is left to ponder the true cost of maintaining order and the delicate balance between law and personal loyalty.
For fans of classic Western dramas, this episode delivers a powerful narrative filled with emotion, tension, and the timeless struggle between right and wrong.
Cast:
Written by: Marion Clark
Editorial Supervision by: John Meston
Produced and Directed by: Norman McDonald
"Delia’s Father" exemplifies the enduring appeal of "Gunsmoke," blending intricate character development with gripping storytelling. Andrew Rines' adept narration ensures that both long-time fans and new listeners are thoroughly engaged, making this episode a standout in the storied legacy of the series.
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