Gunsmoke 53-05-30 (058) Fall Semester

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio Presents: Gunsmoke 53-05-30 (058) Fall Semester

Release Date: April 4, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Description: Dive into the rugged landscapes and morally complex tales of "Gunsmoke," one of the Golden Age of Radio's most enduring western dramas. This episode, titled "Fall Semester," features Marshal Matt Dillon's relentless pursuit of justice in Dodge City, where loyalty, pride, and the harsh realities of the Wild West intertwine.

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Introduction

The episode opens with the familiar authoritative voice of William Conrad, setting the stage in Dodge City. The narrative centers around a tense confrontation between Matt Dillon, the steadfast U.S. Marshal, and Lee Dargan, a recently arrived rancher struggling with cattle theft and personal vendettas.

---

Plot Overview

Initial Conflict:

The story kicks off with Lee Dargan appearing visibly distressed and intoxicated, expressing his intent to kill his foreman, Jim Salter, whom he suspects of cattle rustling. [02:33] Dargan declares, "I'm drunk enough to want to kill him. And I'm sober enough to know I'm too drunk to kill him. You understand?" This duality showcases Dargan's internal conflict and sets the stage for the central tension.

Investigation Begins:

Marshal Dillon, portrayed with nuance by William Conrad, takes Dargan's accusations seriously but remains cautious. [07:46] Dargan admits his suspicions are based purely on instinct, lacking concrete evidence. Dillon’s methodical approach leads him to investigate the cattle thefts meticulously. Through conversations with Chester, the ranch foreman, Dillon uncovers that Salter has been branding stolen calves under fabricated marks, cleverly evading detection.

Uncovering the Scheme:

Dillon realizes that Salter is exploiting the branding system, using a "bar S" mark that easily vanishes as calves shed their hair. [16:33] Dillon explains, "He was about to put a cold iron on that calf a while ago when we rode up," revealing Salter's deceptive tactics. This discovery heightens the stakes, emphasizing Salter's cunning and the fragility of justice in the frontier.

Escalation and Confrontation:

As Dillon and Chester delve deeper, Lee Dargan becomes more agitated, torn between his desire for vengeance and his respect for the law. [19:06] Dargan pleads for Dillon’s assistance, laying bare his desperation: "I just felt so. Almighty. Helpless. Mad and helpless." This vulnerability adds depth to Dargan's character, portraying him as a man pushed to the edge by circumstances beyond his control.

Climax:

The tension reaches its peak when Salter and his accomplices attempt to eliminate Dargan. [24:03] In a dramatic turn, Chester discovers Salter and his men heading towards Kelly's stable, where they brutally hang Dargan. Matt Dillon's swift response to rescue Dargan showcases his unwavering commitment to justice and protection of the innocent. "They just did it. He can't be dead yet," Dillon commands, illustrating his decisive nature in crisis moments.

Resolution:

In the aftermath, Dillon apprehends Salter, ensuring that justice prevails. Dargan, though initially driven by vengeance, finds solace in Dillon's steadfast law enforcement. [27:38] Dargan acknowledges the marshal's role, saying, "Well, that's not easy the way you people educate a man out here," highlighting the transformative power of Dillon's integrity and the rule of law.

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Character Analysis

• Marshal Matt Dillon: Embodies the archetypal Western hero—honorable, determined, and compassionate. His interactions reflect a deep sense of duty and understanding of human frailty. [22:42] Dillon reassures Dargan, "I'll find him, Lee," emphasizing his relentless pursuit of justice.

• Lee Dargan: A tragic figure caught between his pride and desperation. His journey from suspicion to seeking help illustrates the internal battles faced by those striving to uphold honor in a lawless land. [09:02] Dargan admits, "I'm not worried about that long, Marshal," revealing his resignation and hope.

• Chester: Represents the supportive and pragmatic ally. His role is crucial in assisting Dillon, providing a grounded perspective amidst the unfolding drama. [14:30] Chester supports Dillon's moral dilemma, stating, "No, sir, I surely wouldn't," highlighting his loyalty and ethical stance.

• Jim Salter: The antagonist whose deceit and greed propel the central conflict. Salter's intelligence in evading detection underscores the constant threat posed by rustlers and the challenges in maintaining law and order.

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Key Moments and Notable Quotes

1. Dargan's Confession:

   • Lee Dargan: "I'm drunk enough to want to kill him. And I'm sober enough to know I'm too drunk to kill him." [02:25]
   • Significance: Sets the emotional tone and introduces the central conflict.

2. Discovery of Branding Deception:

   • Matt Dillon: "He was about to put a cold iron on that calf a while ago when we rode up." [17:08]
   • Significance: Unveils the method behind Salter's rustling, deepening the investigation.

3. Dargan's Plea for Help:

   • Lee Dargan: "I just felt so. Almighty. Helpless. Mad and helpless." [09:15]
   • Significance: Highlights Dargan's vulnerability and need for assistance.

4. Climactic Rescue:

   • Matt Dillon: "Take my knife and cut him down. You can climb up on the feed box. I'll cover you from here." [24:49]
   • Significance: Demonstrates Dillon's courage and tactical acumen in saving Dargan.

5. Dargan's Realization:

   • Lee Dargan: "No, no, but that's not easy the way you people educate a man out here." [27:38]
   • Significance: Marks Dargan's transformation and acknowledgment of Dillon's influence.

---

Themes and Insights

• Justice vs. Vengeance: The episode explores the fine line between upholding the law and seeking personal revenge. Dargan's initial intent to kill Salter contrasts with Dillon's methodical pursuit of lawful justice.

• Integrity and Leadership: Marshal Dillon's character embodies integrity, showcasing how true leadership balances firmness with empathy. His decisions prioritize the greater good, even when faced with personal pleas for vengeance.

• Survival and Morality in the West: The harsh realities of frontier life are depicted, highlighting the moral complexities individuals face in maintaining honor and survival amidst pervasive corruption and lawlessness.

• Redemption and Transformation: Characters like Lee Dargan experience significant personal growth, moving from desperation and suspicion to seeking redemption through Dillon's guidance.

---

Conclusion

"Fall Semester" is a compelling installment of "Gunsmoke," weaving a narrative rich in tension, character development, and moral dilemmas. Through Marshal Matt Dillon's steadfast commitment to justice, the episode delves into the human struggles inherent in the Wild West. The interplay between Dargan's desperation and Dillon's integrity offers listeners a profound exploration of what it means to uphold the law in an often unforgiving environment.

Notable for its sharp dialogue and intricate plot twists, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of "Gunsmoke" in portraying the complexities of frontier justice and the timeless battle between right and wrong.

---

Notable Quotes with Attribution

• Lee Dargan: "I'm drunk enough to want to kill him. And I'm sober enough to know I'm too drunk to kill him." [02:25]

• Matt Dillon: "He was about to put a cold iron on that calf a while ago when we rode up." [17:08]

• Lee Dargan: "I just felt so. Almighty. Helpless. Mad and helpless." [09:15]

• Matt Dillon: "Take my knife and cut him down. You can climb up on the feed box. I'll cover you from here." [24:49]

• Lee Dargan: "No, no, but that's not easy the way you people educate a man out here." [27:38]

---

This episode masterfully captures the essence of the Golden Age of Radio, immersing listeners in a gripping Western saga that remains relevant through its exploration of fundamental human conflicts and ethical challenges.

Transcript

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[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. Guns Folk Starring William Conrad. The story of the violence that moved west with young America. The story of a man who moved with it. Matt Dillon, United States Marsh.

[Chester]

Mr. Dylan, I've been thinking.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah?

[Chester]

We ought to renovate this place.

[Matt Dillon]

What?

[Chester]

Renovate it?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, blast it. Chester.

[Chester]

What's the matter?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, nothing, nothing. I. I was trying to write and listen to you at the same time. That's it. Can't be done.

[Lee Dargan]

Marco.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. What's the matter, Lee?

[Lee Dargan]

I'm drunk.

[Chester]

We was walking. I thought he'd been shot.

[Lee Dargan]

No, I'm not shot.

[Matt Dillon]

I never saw you drunk before, Lee. Well, would you like a little coffee or something?

[Lee Dargan]

There's my gun. Now lock me up.

[Matt Dillon]

What?

[Lee Dargan]

Lock me up, I say.

[Matt Dillon]

You mean you want to sleep in jail Here?

[Lee Dargan]

I do. You keep my gun.

[Matt Dillon]

Are there any blankets out there, Chester?

[Chester]

Well, there's one, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, that's enough. Okay, Lee, just follow Chester then.

[Lee Dargan]

I will, Marshall. I come here to prevent a killer. Oh, I'm drunk enough to want to kill him. And I'm sober enough to know I'm too drunk to kill him. You understand?

[Matt Dillon]

To kill who, Lee?

[Lee Dargan]

Jim Salter, that's who. My foreman.

[Matt Dillon]

Is he in town, too?

[Lee Dargan]

He is at the Texas Trail. And let him stay there. Keep him out of here. I'm going to bed.

[Chester]

Right in there, Mr. Dogging. I never saw Mr. Dargan like that before, Mr. Dylan. No.

[Matt Dillon]

I wonder what he was fighting with Salter about.

[Chester]

Maybe Salter started it. Maybe he's drunk, too.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, if he is, knowing him, he'll be after someone else to fight with now. I think I'll go take a look, Chester.

[Chester]

All right.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, Chester, if Lee wakes up, just give him another drink, huh?

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, how come you're alone, Kitty. Being alone isn't so bad, Matt.

[Lee Dargan]

Sometimes.

[Matt Dillon]

Buy your drink?

[Chester]

No, thanks.

[Matt Dillon]

I don't see Jim Salter anywhere. I wouldn't complain about that. Well, then he was here, sitting right where you are. And he'll be back any minute. How drunk is he? Kidding? He isn't very drunk. Pit might be an improvement. It'd break his heart to hear you talk like that. If he has one. Here he comes now. Let's ask him. He looked sober enough.

[Chester]

You move in fast, Marsham.

[Matt Dillon]

Sit down, Solder. Sit down.

[Chester]

Seeing as how it's my table, I will.

[Matt Dillon]

I ran into Lee Dorgan. He was pretty mad about something.

[Chester]

That so?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. But it's all right, as long as you're not looking for trouble.

[Chester]

Me, Marshall, I never look for trouble.

[Matt Dillon]

Neither does Lee.

[Chester]

Now, you know those Southerners, Marshall. They're always getting insulted about something.

[Matt Dillon]

You've been foreman on Lee's ranch for over a year now, Sully. This the first time he's wanted to kill you?

[Chester]

Is that what he said?

[Matt Dillon]

That's what I heard him say.

[Chester]

Yeah. Well, Marshall, Lee's had a little bad luck with his cattle, that's all. He's had a drink or two. He needs someone to blame it on. You know how it is with these greenhorns.

[Matt Dillon]

Now, how is it?

[Chester]

If it weren't for me, he wouldn't have as many cows as he's got now. He's lost a few strays. He's all upset.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, as long as it doesn't end in guns.

[Lee Dargan]

Late.

[Chester]

Oh, me and Lee get along fine when he's sober.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. You have to leave, Matt? I'm afraid so, Kitty. Then I'm going to bed.

[Chester]

Wait a minute. You can't do that.

[Matt Dillon]

God says I can't, mister. Good night, Matt. Good night, Kitty.

[Chester]

Well, I'll be.

[Lee Dargan]

Mighty nice of you, Chester, to bring me all that coffee.

[Chester]

Oh, don't mention it, Mr. Dargan. I had a hangover once myself.

[Matt Dillon]

Here's your gun, Lee.

[Lee Dargan]

Thank you, Marshal.

[Matt Dillon]

You still feel like killing Jim Salter?

[Lee Dargan]

I'll kill any man that cheats me. That's how I was brought up, and that's how I am. So I guess it's just instinct that tells me I'm being robbed by Marshall. I got no proof at all. None whatsoever.

[Matt Dillon]

What is it, Lee? Don't your cattle tally upright?

[Lee Dargan]

Look, I came out here from Alabama 18 months ago. I bought a ranch. I'm trying to raise beef. I've learned a little, but I can see it takes years to be A cattle man. Meantime, I'm green and I'm an easy mark, but I'm not so dumb I can't count. Marshall, I branded over 300 calves last spring and fall, and more than half of them are missing right now.

[Matt Dillon]

Stolen.

[Lee Dargan]

I don't know, Marshal. I've asked every rancher and every buyer around here to be on the lookout for my brand that hadn't turned up once.

[Matt Dillon]

Why do you think Salter has anything to do with it?

[Lee Dargan]

Instinct, I told you. I just don't trust him. Nothing more. But it's enough.

[Matt Dillon]

Then why don't you fire him?

[Lee Dargan]

Pride, I suppose. I want to beat him at his own game, whatever it is.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, good luck at it, Lee.

[Lee Dargan]

Well, I need more than luck, Marshall. I need a little help. I just don't know enough about this business.

[Matt Dillon]

You're asking me to help you.

[Lee Dargan]

I am.

[Matt Dillon]

But how?

[Lee Dargan]

Come out to the ranch, take a look around. Maybe you'll see something I can't see. Well, I don't know, Brandon. Again tomorrow. Marshall. Come out then. You gotta help me. I've been. I'll be ruined if this goes on anymore.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Lee, I'll come. But will you promise me one thing?

[Lee Dargan]

What's that?

[Matt Dillon]

If Salter does prove to be guilty, you won't try to kill him?

[Lee Dargan]

No, I can't promise that. I respect the law, Marshal, but I got my own code, too. Thanks. Just.

[Matt Dillon]

Now, wait a minute, Lee. You're stubborn, but I don't think you deserve being ruined. All right, I'll come.

[Lee Dargan]

Thank you, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Thank you.

[Lee Dargan]

You know, the reason I got drunk last night was because I just felt so. Almighty. Helpless. Mad and helpless.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know the feeling.

[Lee Dargan]

See you tomorrow.

[Matt Dillon]

Good morning, Marshall.

[Lee Dargan]

Dylan.

[Matt Dillon]

Good morning, Mr. Peters.

[Chester]

And what can I do for you this morning?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'm interested in some brands that you got registered here.

[Lee Dargan]

Oh, you don't mean to tell me.

[Chester]

That you're going into the cattle business, Marshall?

[Matt Dillon]

No, not likely. I just want to see what new brands have been registered in the past, oh, 12 or 13 months.

[Lee Dargan]

Well, certainly.

[Chester]

Sydney Marshall, 1865. Yeah, here it is.

[Matt Dillon]

There.

[Chester]

There you are.

[Matt Dillon]

That's the official brand book for the last two years. Thank you.

[Chester]

You can start anywhere you like in it.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, maybe you remember, Mr. Peters. Has Jim Salter got a brand registered?

[Chester]

Jim Salter?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, Jim Salter, the fellow who works for Lee Dargan? That's right.

[Chester]

Yeah, Last summer.

[Matt Dillon]

July, I believe.

[Lee Dargan]

Look there.

[Matt Dillon]

July, July, July, July, July. Yeah, yeah, yeah. Sover, James Saler. July 14th. Bar S. That's it. Bar S. Yes, indeed.

[Chester]

How's he doing?

[Matt Dillon]

Fine, Mr. Peters, fine. Thanks for the help.

[Chester]

Anytime, Marshall. Anytime at all. That's what I'm paid for.

[Lee Dargan]

Goodbye.

[Matt Dillon]

Goodbye, Marshall. When we weren't working, most of the cattle buyers in town spent their time drinking toddy and telling lies at the Dodge House. And there I learned that a number of bar esque calves had been sold in the fall and some more of them in the they remembered because it wasn't often a man sold only calves and also because the brands were newly burned on. But they said the brands were clean and there was no question of any previous marking having been altered. I figured Salter was a whole lot smarter than the ordinary rustler. And the next day I found out just how smart.

[Chester]

They sure got their branding fire set Far enough apart, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, they have.

[Chester]

Here's Jim Salter now at this first fire.

[Matt Dillon]

Now we'll stop and say hello, Chester.

[Chester]

All right, let him go, boys.

[Matt Dillon]

That's interesting.

[Chester]

What is?

[Matt Dillon]

I'll tell you later. You don't have to stop work just because we're here, soldier.

[Chester]

That's all right, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, but you didn't brand that one. You just have to cut him out and rope him again.

[Chester]

Iron's cold anyway.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, you got another iron there in the fire.

[Chester]

We'll get him branded, Marshall. What are you doing out here anyway?

[Matt Dillon]

We needed to change the scenery, so we thought we'd pay Lee a visit. Where is he?

[Chester]

Working the fire down yonder. You sure do keep your fire separated. Anything else you fellows object to? Well, no, I wasn't objecting. I was just making an entirely impersonal observation, that's all. Well, go do your observing on Lee. You came to see him, Solder, I'd starve plum to death where I'd ever work around you. You sure would, Chester.

[Lee Dargan]

Oh, Jim.

[Matt Dillon]

Wasting time.

[Chester]

See you later, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah.

[Chester]

Okay, Adams. Bring another one out.

[Lee Dargan]

Okay.

[Matt Dillon]

He's smart, that solar.

[Lee Dargan]

To me he's just mean.

[Chester]

And downright greatness.

[Matt Dillon]

At least that too. Chester.

[Chester]

You got Something figured out?

[Matt Dillon]

Mr. Dillon, I got it all figured out.

[Chester]

What?

[Matt Dillon]

Salter's stealing cattle. All right. I know just how he's doing it. But the problem now is how to handle Lee Dargan and that code of his. I wouldn't want to see Lee hung for murder.

[Chester]

No, sir, I surely wouldn't ne.

[Lee Dargan]

Hello.

[Matt Dillon]

Hi, Marshal.

[Lee Dargan]

Holden, man. How are you, Marshal? Yes, sir, fine. Lady, we're about through for the day. Why don't you ride on down to Hel?

[Matt Dillon]

Okay. I'll be along directly. We Stopped by Salter's fire back there. Oh.

[Lee Dargan]

How are they doing?

[Matt Dillon]

Fine. Tell me something, Lee. Does Salter always work alone with those same two cowboys?

[Lee Dargan]

Yeah, come to think of it, he does. Why?

[Matt Dillon]

I was just curious. We'll see you at the house, Lee.

[Lee Dargan]

Go Marshall. Tell the cook I'll string him up. Supper isn't ready when we get there.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, I'll do that.

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[Matt Dillon]

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[Chester]

Well, not a bad house Mr. Dargan's got here, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

That's fine. Let's sit on the porch here, Chester. They'll be along soon.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, Mr. Dillon. Yeah, I give up trying to figure it out about Solar. You'll just have to explain it.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I told you he sold fresh branded calves under the bar S mark that he's got registered.

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, those were Lee's calves. Did you ever hear of using a cold brand, Chester?

[Chester]

A cold brand?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, you can either put it on through a wet blanket or you can just keep the iron hot enough to burn hair and press it down lightly so it won't scorch the hide. Looks like a fine brand for a few months. That is, until the calf sheds.

[Chester]

Well, I'll be doggone.

[Matt Dillon]

And then the cap's as unmarked as the day it got dropped. You can brand it at leisure with any mark that appeals to you. Like a bar S, for example.

[Chester]

So that's what Salter's been doing.

[Matt Dillon]

He was about to put a cold iron on that calf a while ago when we rode up.

[Chester]

Sure, sure.

[Matt Dillon]

He works at a distance from Dorgan because the other cowboys had noticed right away what he's up to. Poor Lee. He's sure right about being green at this business.

[Chester]

Well, he's gonna learn now, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

No, no, Chester. I can't tell him.

[Chester]

Well, why not?

[Matt Dillon]

Lee meant it when he said he'd killed Salter if he had any proof. If he did that, he'd be worse off than he is now.

[Chester]

Well, then why don't you just arrest that man?

[Matt Dillon]

A judge would let him off, I'm afraid cold brine can be laid to carelessness. Of course, we could wait a couple of months and catch him doing his bar esque branding. That's risky too, though.

[Chester]

Well, what are you gonna do, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

I don't know, Chester. But I'll have to figure something out by morning.

[William Conrad]

We will return to the second act of gun smoke in just a moment. But first, there's a lifeline that stretches from here to Korea. A lifeline that you help sustain for our fighting men when you give blood to the Red Cross blood donor program. Call the Red Cross for an appointment to give blood the first thing Monday morning. And now, the second act of gun smoke.

[Lee Dargan]

I don't understand it, Marshall. Just doesn't make any sense to me. But I asked for help, so. All right, I'll do as you say.

[Matt Dillon]

Then call Salter over here and tell him.

[Lee Dargan]

Okay, Marshall. Salter. Solder.

[Chester]

Yeah.

[Lee Dargan]

Come over here.

[Chester]

What do you want, Lee? We're already late this morning.

[Lee Dargan]

I'm going to make a change in our branding setup, Salter.

[Chester]

What?

[Lee Dargan]

I've decided it'll be faster. From now on, we all work from one fire instead of two.

[Chester]

What for?

[Lee Dargan]

You and Adams and Smith will work alongside the rest of us. That's all.

[Chester]

Whose idea is this anyway?

[Lee Dargan]

Those are my orders.

[Chester]

Oh, you still talk like a Confederate colonel, don't you?

[Lee Dargan]

That'll do, Salter.

[Chester]

Sure. This for you, Marshall. I never did like you anyway.

[Matt Dillon]

It must have been pretty hard on Salter that day, having to put a permanent brand on Lee Dorgan's calves with a good hot iron. But he had no choice and he did it. About noon, Chester and I said goodbye and rode back to Dodge. I figured that'd be the end of Lee's trouble. But two nights later, while Doc and I were taking our ease at the Isle Fraganza, I found out I was wrong. Yeah, it's like that Igret cowboy got.

[Chester]

A letter from his sweet girlfriend in St. Louis. Mat.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Doc, what did the letter say?

[Chester]

Oh, well, she mentioned that she'd found.

[Matt Dillon]

A nice room with running water.

[Chester]

Yeah, running water. And so this uncivilized Son of the Prairie wrote her back to get rid.

[Matt Dillon]

Of that Indian at once, or our engagement is off.

[Chester]

You see, he thought that running. You understand that now, don't you?

[Matt Dillon]

Mad because for that, the next drink's on you.

[Chester]

Sure Man.

[Matt Dillon]

Sure. And when you get it as the bartender for a couple of good cigarettes, I really like the shoes.

[Chester]

I finish almost. Say, that was a fool. Oh, sir, I thought you left Lee doggin out at his ranch.

[Matt Dillon]

What?

[Chester]

Just came in the door.

[Matt Dillon]

Must be looking for you.

[Chester]

He's coming this way, man.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. What's that under his arm?

[Chester]

Oh, looks like a blanket.

[Matt Dillon]

Hello, Lee. Sit down, Marshall.

[Lee Dargan]

Doc.

[Chester]

Oh, how are you, Lee?

[Matt Dillon]

What are you doing in town? You all through, Brandon?

[Lee Dargan]

We're through.

[Matt Dillon]

How'd it go?

[Lee Dargan]

Yeah. Take a look at this blanket, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Huh? It's all marked up, isn't it?

[Lee Dargan]

It sure is. And it's burned with my brand all over.

[Matt Dillon]

Where'd you find this, Lee?

[Lee Dargan]

One of my men was riding by the place where Salter and his had his Brandon. Fire marshal his horse kicked it up. They'd half buried it there.

[Matt Dillon]

They showed it to you. Is that it?

[Lee Dargan]

That's it. And he explained all about Cole Brandon to me at the same time.

[Matt Dillon]

I see. Where's Salter now?

[Lee Dargan]

He got wind I was on to him and left. Marshall. I think he's in Dodge with those two. Worked with him, Adams and Smith.

[Matt Dillon]

And you're looking for him?

[Lee Dargan]

And I'm looking for him. But I'm telling you so's you can look, too. That blanket's enough evidence even for the law, I figure.

[Matt Dillon]

Along with the witnesses that had convict him. But I'll find him, Lee.

[Lee Dargan]

Better hurry, Marshall. I might find him first.

[Matt Dillon]

Lee, you'll stand trial if you kill him.

[Lee Dargan]

I'm not worried about that long, Marshal.

[Matt Dillon]

Why didn't you take his gun, Matt?

[Chester]

Shows he couldn't get in any trouble.

[Matt Dillon]

He just find another one, Doc. He's a mighty determined man.

[Chester]

Yes, I can see that.

[Matt Dillon]

I'll take that drink another time, Doc. I got work to do.

[Chester]

Sure, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, do me a favor, will you? Drop this blanket off at the office for me.

[Chester]

Oh, you bet your life I will. Good luck.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah.

[Chester]

Mr. Dillon. Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, what is it, Chester?

[Chester]

There's something wrong, sir. I just saw Salter and two men walk up behind Lee Dargan over there and grab his gun.

[Matt Dillon]

What? Where are they?

[Chester]

They were headed toward Kelly's stable. I thought I'd better find you first.

[Matt Dillon]

Come on.

[Chester]

What are they doing in Dodge anyway?

[Matt Dillon]

Lee's on to him, Chester. He knows the whole story now, and they know he knows it.

[Chester]

Tell them somebody's gonna get killed.

[Matt Dillon]

Sure, it looks that way. All right. Stay behind me, Chester.

[Chester]

That's the only door to the stable. They'll have to come out there, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know, but we're going in after them. Easy now. The entrance to Kelly's stable was open, but there was no light showing. Chester and I stepped quickly around the frame of the door. Then we stopped just inside, waiting for our eyes to get used to the darkness. They could hear voices in the back where the men were saddling up. And then suddenly we both saw it at the same time.

[Chester]

The first doll. Mr. Dillon, look. Yeah, it's Mr. Dargan. They hung him.

[Matt Dillon]

They just did it. He can't be dead yet. Here, take my knife and cut him down. You can climb up on the feed box. I'll cover you from here. Now hurry.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I'll hurry.

[Lee Dargan]

Something felt.

[Chester]

Maybe Dargan got loose somehow. Get up front there and take a look, both of you. I'll finish saddling up.

[Lee Dargan]

Okay, Silver. Come on, Smith.

[Matt Dillon]

Stay in here, chester. Don't move.

[Chester]

Mr. Dargan's breathing.

[Matt Dillon]

When they come up, we'll jump them. I'll take Adams. Now. Quiet now.

[Lee Dargan]

I'll see him. Rope must have broke. Let's hit him on the head and have done with him. You do it, Smith. I'll wait here. Yeah, okay.

[Matt Dillon]

You all right, Chester?

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Good. Now keep low.

[Chester]

What's going on up there? Adams.

[Lee Dargan]

Smith.

[Chester]

Mr. Dargan's coming too. Now he's breathing easier.

[Matt Dillon]

Keep him quiet. Hold him down if he tries to get up. Solder will be along in a minute.

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Lee Dargan]

What are you two doing?

[Chester]

Answer me. Plaster. Who's in there?

[Matt Dillon]

Throw down your gun, Salter.

[Chester]

Who's that?

[Matt Dillon]

It's Matt Dillon. I'll do as I.

[Chester]

Sure, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Here it is. All right, Chester. Get the guns off of Adams and Smith. We don't have to worry about Solder.

[Chester]

All right, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Lee. Lee, how are you?

[Lee Dargan]

Oh, it's good to breathe again, Marshall. I was about gone.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, you're all right. We got him and Salter's dead. You won't have any trouble now.

[Lee Dargan]

No, no, but that's not easy the way you people educate a man out here.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, if it was easy, Lee, anyone could manage.

[Lee Dargan]

Well, thanks, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, sure. Foreign.

[William Conrad]

Of Norman McDonald stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, u. S. Marshal. Tonight's story was specially written for Gunsmoke by John Meston with music composed and conducted by Rex Corey. Featured in the cast were John McIntyre as Lee, Harry Bartel, assaulter and John Dana as Peters. Parley Bear is Chester, Georgia Ellis is kitty, and Howard McNair is Doc. Gunsmoke has been selected by the Armed forces radio Service to be heard by our troops overseas. Join us again next week as Matt Dillon, U.S. marshal, fights to bring law and order out of the wild violence of the West. In gun smok a flirtation that leads to a killing interests Mr. And Mrs. North this coming Tuesday night on CBS radio. Don't miss Kiss of Death when Pam and Jerry north go into action against the murderer. Also Tuesday night on most of these same CBS radio stations, John Lund as yours truly, Johnny Dollar brings us his latest adventure in probing fraudulent insurance claims. Mr. And Mrs. North and yours truly, Johnny Dollar. They're both thrilling Tuesday nighters at the Stars address. This is Roy Rowan speaking. And this is the CBS Radio.

[Matt Dillon]

Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse. With family.

[Lee Dargan]

Cannolis and spins mean everything.

[Chester]

Now you want to get mixed up in the family business?

[Lee Dargan]

Introducing the Godfather at champacasino.

[Matt Dillon]

Com. Test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather slot.

[Chester]

Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me.

[Matt Dillon]

Play the Godfather [e-mail] Welcome to the family. No purchase necessary. VGW Group void.

[William Conrad]

We're prohibited by law.

[Matt Dillon]

21 + terms and conditions apply.