Crowbait Bob | Gunsmoke (11-10-56)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns: Gunsmoke – “Crowbait Bob” (Original Air Date: 11-10-1956)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Featured Cast: William Conrad (Matt Dillon), Parley Baer (Chester), Georgia Ellis (Kitty Russell), Howard McNear (Doc Adams)
Podcast Date: November 10, 2025 (rebroadcast)

---

Episode Overview

This episode of Gunsmoke, titled “Crowbait Bob,” spotlights the passing of a worn-down old cowboy, Crowbait Bob, and the mystery of his last will and testament. As the townsfolk of Dodge City, particularly Marshal Matt Dillon and Kitty Russell, become involved in Bob’s final wishes, the episode delves into themes of kindness, loneliness, the value of a person’s life, and the true measure of wealth. The gentle humor and quiet dignity so characteristic of the series are on full display, along with a poignant critique of opportunism and greed.

---

Key Discussion Points & Story Progression

1. Setting the Scene: Dodge City Gossip

• Opening Banter (03:43)
  • The episode opens with Chester’s incredulity about technological progress. He recounts a traveling salesman’s claim that “a railroad train over there in England... goes 150 miles in three hours flat” (04:09), which Chester finds hard to believe.
  • This talk of progress and the future contrasts starkly with the plight of Crowbait Bob, whose life has run its course.

2. Crowbait Bob’s Condition & His Last Wish

• Doc’s News (05:01)

  • Doc Adams brings word to Matt that Crowbait Bob, a destitute old cowboy living in a hayloft, is gravely ill and wants to see the marshal.
  • “He wants to see you, Matt. Right away... it’s something he wants to do before he dies.” — Doc Adams (05:35)

• Bob’s Request (07:00)

  • Crowbait Bob asks Matt to witness his will, revealing “I only got one thing to leave ... it’s here in this here leather box.” He asks Matt to ensure that the box gets to the right person after he passes.

• The Bequest (08:07)

  • Bob specifies the beneficiary: “It goes to Miss Kitty.” He calls her “just a God darned angel... that’s what she is. Just a golden angel.”

3. The Human Side: Kitty’s Kindness

• Kitty’s Reaction (11:17)
  • Kitty, learning of her unusual inheritance, is uncomfortable: “Whatever it is, I wish he hadn’t done it. Matt, I didn’t expect any payment.” (12:35)
  • Revealed through Doc’s teasing, it turns out: “Kitty’s been feeding him for the last two years.” (13:01) Her good deeds were done quietly, with no expectation of reward.

4. Opportunism Surfaces: The Family Arrives

• Long-lost Relatives (13:44–16:03)
  • Bob’s estranged niece (Ruth) and her husband (Albin) appear, feigning concern: “And this upstart saying we can’t see him!” — Ruth, about Matt Dillon (13:58)
  • Their motives are thinly veiled; rumors of Bob’s supposed wealth have reached them. They protest, feign generosity by bringing food, but are mostly interested in securing any possible inheritance.
  • When Matt suggests they pay off Bob’s outstanding bills instead of angling for the contents of his will, they balk.

5. Crowbait Bob’s Passing

• Bob’s Death (19:51)
  • As anticipated, Bob dies peacefully in his sleep. Matt, Chester, and Doc prepare to honor his last wishes.

6. The Will’s Reading & the Reveal

• Kitty Opens the Box (23:39)
  • The much-anticipated opening of Bob’s box brings a revelation:
    • It contains worthless Confederate banknotes, an old army medal ("Bravery in action... awarded to Lieutenant Robert Danford Conroy" — 23:59), a silver dollar, and a silken lock of hair from a long-lost sweetheart.
  • “Matt, it’s full of banknotes.” — Kitty (23:39)
    “Yeah. Confederate banknotes, Kitty.” — Matt (23:43)
  • The real treasure turns out to be poignant mementos of a life lived—honor, sacrifice, and love lost.

7. Concluding Reflections

• Kitty’s Wisdom (24:47)
  • “A medal. A curl. A dollar. A box full of worthless paper. Story of a man’s life.” — Kitty (24:47)
  • Matt closes with empathy: “Yeah, and there have been worse stories.” (24:57)
  • Kitty keeps the sentimental items and quips: “We’ll spend the dollar on a drink.” — Kitty (25:11), honoring Bob’s memory in the way that would’ve pleased him.

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Progress vs. Human Limits:
  • “A human body just ain’t built to go that fast. It’d get a man’s innards all out of whack.” — Chester (04:40)
• On Kindness:
  • “I treated him like a human being, that’s all.” — Kitty (12:15)
• On Inheritance & True Value:
  • “A medal. A curl. A dollar. A box full of worthless paper. Story of a man’s life.” — Kitty (24:47)
• On Remembrance:
  • “We’ll spend the dollar on a drink.” — Kitty (25:11)
• On Justice and Greed:
  • “Assault with a deadly weapon. Judge Bent will figure it’s worth about $100 in good hard cash, Ms. Cutler.” — Matt (22:39)

---

Timestamped Key Segments

• Crowbait Bob’s last request: 05:01–08:13
• Kitty’s secret charity revealed: 12:35–13:05
• Niece & nephew’s arrival and scheming: 13:44–16:03
• Bob’s peaceful death: 19:51–20:08
• The opening of the box and its contents: 23:12–24:47
• Closing moral and Kitty’s reflection: 24:47–25:16

---

Tone and Style

The episode’s tone is classic Gunsmoke: gently ironic, quietly moral, mixing humor and pathos. Each character’s voice is distinct, with Matt’s stoic decency anchoring the story, Kitty’s warmth and wit shining through, and Doc’s crusty concern making the town feel real and human.

---

Conclusion

“Crowbait Bob” serves up a classic Gunsmoke meditation on human dignity and the difference between material and emotional legacy. In revealing the small but meaningful treasures of a humble man’s past, the episode reminds us that compassion and memory are richer gifts than gold.

Transcript

[Kitty Russell]

Hey, this is Sarah.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Look, I'm standing out front of a.m. p.m. Right now and well, you're sweet and all, but I found something more fulfilling, Even kind of cheesy.

[Kitty Russell]

But I like it.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Sure, you met some of my dietary.

[Matt Dillon]

Needs, but they've just got it all. So farewell, oatmeal. So long, you strange soggy.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Break up with bland breakfast and taste AM PM's bacon, egg and cheese biscuit made with ktree eggs, smoked bacon and melty cheese on a buttery biscuit. AM P M. Too much. Good stuff.

[Kitty Russell]

What do you think makes the perfect snack?

[Doc Adams]

Hmm, it's gotta be when I'm really craving it and it's convenient.

[Kitty Russell]

Could you be more specific?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

When it's cravinient. Okay, Like a freshly baked cookie made.

[Doc Adams]

With real butter available right down the street at a.m. p.m. Or a savory breakfast sandwich I can grab in just a second at a.m. pM.

[Matt Dillon]

I'm seeing a pattern here.

[Doc Adams]

Well, yeah, we're talking about what I.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Crave, which is anything from AM pm.

[Doc Adams]

What more could you want?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Stop by AMPM where the snacks and drinks are perfectly craveable and convenient. That's cravenience. AM PM Too much. Good stuff.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines, and let's get into this episode. This episode is going to be Gunsmoke Original air date is November 10, 1956 and the title is Crowbait Bob.

[Doc Adams]

Gun.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Smoke Brought to you by L M the modern cigarette that lets you get full exciting flavor through the modern miracle of the pure white miracle. Tip. Live modern Smoke L and M 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.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug. Here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug Limu.

[Doc Adams]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty. Liberty.

[Kitty Russell]

Liberty.

[Doc Adams]

Liberty Savings.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Very underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates. Excludes Massachusetts.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Gunsmoke starring William Conrad. The transcribed 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.

[Doc Adams]

Smiles make me so mad. I think I ain't got a lick of sense in his head. I must need truth, Honest. I swear, too. Goodness, Mr. Dillon, these times a man's gotta choke his words right back down in his crawl. Keep from starting up a rugas.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, what's the trouble, Justin?

[Doc Adams]

There's a fellow over at the Dodge House, a traveling drummer out of Baltimore. And you know what he said?

[Matt Dillon]

Now, what he say?

[Doc Adams]

He said they got a railroad train over there in England somewheres that goes 150 miles in three hours flat.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, is that so?

[Doc Adams]

He said they'll have trains like that here one these days going clean across the country in 30 or 40 years. According to him, a man can get on one in New York City and get off a week later in San Francisco.

[Matt Dillon]

You don't say.

[Doc Adams]

Well, now, you don't believe that, do you, Mr. Jones?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Chester.

[Doc Adams]

I don't believe it. A human body just ain't built to go that fast. It'd get a man's innards all out of whack. Choke him to death trying to breathe. Maybe. Maybe the good Lord wanted a man to go 50 miles an hour, he'd.

[Matt Dillon]

Have put wheels on him.

[Doc Adams]

Well, yeah. Good morning, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, come on in, Doc.

[Doc Adams]

Oh, my. I just been at delivery stable, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, what's the matter? Is Ma sick?

[Doc Adams]

No, it's old Crowbait barn. Mars Grimmich's been letting him sleep in the hayloft in return for helping with the chores.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I heard he has.

[Doc Adams]

Well, old Crowbait took sick in the night sometime. He couldn't get up this morning.

[Matt Dillon]

What's wrong with him?

[Doc Adams]

Nothing that 30 years off his age wouldn't cure. And a thousand or so less bottles of rot gut whiskey.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, if he's sick, we ought to get him out of that hayloft.

[Doc Adams]

But I can't figure any place to move him. He wants to see you, Matt. Right away.

[Matt Dillon]

See me?

[Doc Adams]

What for, man? I wouldn't say, but he claims it's mighty important. It's something he wants to do before he dies.

[Matt Dillon]

Before he dies?

[Doc Adams]

I'm just trying to make him comfortable, Matt. That's all I can. Well, whereas I'm concerned. Marshall, you're the only man in Dodge City that's worth the hoot and holler. Except Moss Grimmick. But for him and Marshall, I'm a God darn liar.

[Matt Dillon]

What do you mean by that?

[Doc Adams]

Oh, there's lots of nice folks here. Of course there is. I Reckon the only ones I'm really talking about is that high flute niece of mine and that sneaky old husband of hers.

[Matt Dillon]

And I was wondering, Bob, if maybe we ought to let Ruth and Albin know about your being sick.

[Doc Adams]

This? No, sir. No, no. Let him know nothing. Let him sit out there in the precious ranch. And Rock ain't showed me no care for years.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, it's up to you, I guess.

[Doc Adams]

Marshall, the reason I sent for you is cause I want to make my.

[Matt Dillon]

Will like a will.

[Doc Adams]

Oh, I know, I know. It don't seem likely worth this. Old coot like me and have reason to. But that's where you're wrong.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, Bob, I'll do whatever I can.

[Doc Adams]

You know, I only got one thing to leave. Let's see. It's here. Yes, it's right here in this here leather box. Won't you take care of it, Fermi? Marshal, see that it ain't open till after I'm gone.

[Matt Dillon]

Ah, Bob, that'll probably be years.

[Doc Adams]

No, no, you don't know. Doc's trying to fool me too, But I know where I stand.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Bob, I'll take care of it for you. Look, Doc's gone after a rig and we're gonna move you over to the jail. At least you'll be warm there and there'll be somebody with you. And I'll write up a will of some kind and you can sign it.

[Doc Adams]

Yeah, I'm much obliged to you. Marshall, that there box is made available. I want to be sure the right party gets it.

[Matt Dillon]

Sure. What does it go to, Bob?

[Doc Adams]

He goes to Miss Kitty.

[Matt Dillon]

What? Kitty Russell? Yep.

[Doc Adams]

Yes, she's fine girl, Marshall. Just a God darned angel. That's what she is. Just a goulder and angel.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug, here we have the Limu emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug Limu.

[Doc Adams]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you need@liberty mutual.com Liberty. Liberty.

[Doc Adams]

Liberty. Liberty Savings.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Very underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company Affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Dutch Vet Service Announcer]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24. 7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments. And shipping is always Free with Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Free yourself of old fashioned ideas.

[Doc Adams]

Why don't you live modern? Live modern. Live, live, live modern.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Free up, freshen up your taste Smoking.

[Kitty Russell]

L M.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Today all over the country, more people are changing to L M than to any other cigarette. And it's all because only L M gives you full, exciting flavor through the pure white miracle tip L M draws.

[Doc Adams]

Easier, tastes richer, smokes cleaner.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

So free up, freshen up your taste. Live modern, Change to L and M.

[Matt Dillon]

Make today your big red letter day.

[Doc Adams]

And start to live the modern way. Live, live, live modern Smoke at L.

[Kitty Russell]

M.

[Doc Adams]

It's America's fastest growing cigarette. Sam, how does it feel to be an heiress?

[Kitty Russell]

Stop it. That's all I've been hearing for the last three hours. How's the old man, Matt?

[Matt Dillon]

We got him moved over to the jail, kid. He fixed up a cell for him. And Chester's staying there this evening to look after him.

[Kitty Russell]

Must be terrible to know you're dying. Be all alone like that with nobody of your own.

[Matt Dillon]

I asked him about sending for his niece, Ruth Williams Guttler and her husband, but he was dead set against that.

[Kitty Russell]

And I don't blame him. Not the way they've treated him.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, Seems like they might have done something for him.

[Kitty Russell]

They could have found a place for him out there in the ranch, though. He drank too much. Maybe he had a reason to drink.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, maybe.

[Kitty Russell]

Maybe he is worthless. But he never meant any harm to anyone.

[Matt Dillon]

Crobate's all right.

[Andrew Rines]

I.

[Matt Dillon]

I didn't know that you and him were so thick, though.

[Kitty Russell]

I treated him like a human being, that's all.

[Doc Adams]

Good evening, Mac. Kitty.

[Matt Dillon]

Hello, Doc.

[Doc Adams]

Well, Kitty, I hear you're about to inherit a million dollars.

[Kitty Russell]

That's foolishness, Doc. Old Bob never had two quarters to rub together.

[Doc Adams]

Never can tell now.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, at least you get it. Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

Whatever it is, I wish he hadn't done it. Matt, I didn't expect any payment.

[Matt Dillon]

Payment for what?

[Kitty Russell]

Nothing. Forget it.

[Doc Adams]

Matt, you mean you didn't know?

[Matt Dillon]

Didn't know what?

[Kitty Russell]

You keep quiet.

[Doc Adams]

Where do you think Crowbait's been getting his meals?

[Matt Dillon]

I suppose Moss, the delivery stable, was feeding him.

[Doc Adams]

Moss has been letting him sleep there.

[Kitty Russell]

Doc, if you don't.

[Doc Adams]

Why, Kitty's been feeding him for the last two years.

[Matt Dillon]

Kenny, is this true?

[Kitty Russell]

All right, what of it? They waste enough food here in a long branch to feed 10 men like him. Didn't cost me anything.

[Doc Adams]

I. It was just oh, come on, let's have a dream.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, how's it going, Chester?

[Doc Adams]

Fine, Mr. Dylan. We got visitors.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, good evening, Ms. Cutler. Alvin. What brings you people into town?

[Doc Adams]

You know dang well what brings this marshal.

[Kitty Russell]

Poor Uncle Robert laying back there sick to his death maybe. And this upstart saying we can't see him. Upstart?

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Well, I'll be.

[Matt Dillon]

Now just take it easy. Just take it easy. Poor old Uncle Robert. Would that be Crowbait Bob, by any chance?

[Doc Adams]

Marshall, now you're insulting a dear relative of my wife.

[Kitty Russell]

What a thing to call Uncle Robert. Why, we had no idea he was took down and ailing this way.

[Matt Dillon]

No. I don't suppose you're dead since you haven't spoken to him in the last five years.

[Doc Adams]

Well, that was just a family misunderstanding, Marshall.

[Kitty Russell]

When one's own kin is took bad sick about, he'd be mighty heartless if they didn't let bygones be bygones.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, sure.

[Kitty Russell]

I even brung him some nice chicken broth and baked him an egg custard pie.

[Matt Dillon]

That's real thoughtful of you, Miss Gutter. You must have heard the rumors.

[Doc Adams]

Rumors?

[Matt Dillon]

About him turning out to be wealthy.

[Kitty Russell]

Why, we haven't.

[Doc Adams]

That dance, old girl. Ain't gettin one spot, Marshall. No, sir. We'll take her to court.

[Matt Dillon]

Why don't you do that, Alvin? If you know some way of beating a legal will.

[Doc Adams]

He was out of his mind, Doc.

[Matt Dillon]

And I'll say different.

[Kitty Russell]

We demand to see him right this minute.

[Matt Dillon]

I'm sorry. He left orders against it.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, then take that food back to him and tell him who brung it. That'll change his mind.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Chester. Chester, take this back to the cell, will you?

[Doc Adams]

All right. He's asleep for a little while.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, if he's asleep, just leave him.

[Doc Adams]

All right, sir.

[Kitty Russell]

You be sure and tell him we brung it.

[Doc Adams]

Oh, I'll hire a brass band and tell the whole country. Now, Marshall, you know that's a terrible thing. A woman like that to undermine a man's feelings for his own kin.

[Matt Dillon]

Look, Alban, if you want to do something for him, why don't you pay off some of his bills around town?

[Kitty Russell]

Pay off is bill.

[Matt Dillon]

That's right. 10 or $15 to Mos Grimic, 20 or so to Wilbert Jonas at the general store.

[Kitty Russell]

I'd only pay him his self if he's got.

[Matt Dillon]

Wait a minute, Ruth.

[Doc Adams]

Might just make him stop and think twice if we was to pay him off.

[Kitty Russell]

Pay out good money on bills that wor.

[Doc Adams]

Shut up, Ruth. All righty, Marshall. We won't bother you no longer. We'll be going now. Come on, Ruth. Good night, Marshall. Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Huh? What's wrong, Chester?

[Doc Adams]

You better find doc in a hurry, Mr. Dillon. That old man don't look too good.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug here we have the Limu emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.

[Doc Adams]

Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Ferry Unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Co. Affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Dutch Vet Service Announcer]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24. 7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments and shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Free yourself of old fashioned ideas.

[Doc Adams]

Why don't you live modern Live modern.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Live, live, live modern Free up, freshen up your taste Smoking lnm why are more people changing to L M than to any other cigarette? Because only L M lets you enjoy full exciting flavor through the pure white miracle tip L M draws easier, tastes richer, smoke's cleaner. So free up, freshen up your taste.

[Doc Adams]

Get full exciting flavor.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Live modern smoke L and M Make.

[Matt Dillon]

Today your big red letter day and.

[Doc Adams]

Start to live the modern way. Live, live, live modern smoke and L.

[Kitty Russell]

M.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

It'S America's fastest growing cigarette.

[Doc Adams]

Sadly. Good pie, Mr. Jones. Your uniform is gudler did bake it.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, it looks real good, Chester.

[Doc Adams]

Makes men feel kindly. Funny eating it though.

[Matt Dillon]

No.

[Doc Adams]

Well, I reckon old Colbate wouldn't want him to go to waste.

[Matt Dillon]

No, I don't think he would.

[Doc Adams]

I wonder what is in that box, Mr. Jones.

[Matt Dillon]

I don't know. We'll find out as soon as Kitty comes over.

[Doc Adams]

Died in his sleep, Doc said. Peaceful as anything.

[Matt Dillon]

Mm.

[Doc Adams]

If you really ain't gonna eat that last peach pie.

[Matt Dillon]

I haven't eaten any of it, Chester. Well, why don't you finish it?

[Doc Adams]

Yeah. It orton to go the way he started.

[Andrew Rines]

No.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh. Oh, Kitty, Kitty. Come on in.

[Kitty Russell]

Doc told me. Max, I'm real sorry.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

No.

[Doc Adams]

Kitty. Poor old fellow.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, I hope he had a good life somewhere. Back along the line. His last years sure weren't very happy.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, here's a box, Kitty. It's all yours.

[Kitty Russell]

I wish he hadn't done it, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Why not?

[Kitty Russell]

Oh, I don't know. Looks like I did things for him just because I expected something. I just felt sorry for him, that's all.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I wouldn't count any chickens ahead of time.

[Kitty Russell]

I don't even care what's in it.

[Doc Adams]

It's just that I. Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, come on, Elvin.

[Doc Adams]

Marshall, you tricked us.

[Kitty Russell]

All that good hard cash paid out.

[Matt Dillon]

For folks acquainted with Miss Kitty Russell here.

[Kitty Russell]

I know who they are, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

How do you figure I tricked you, Albert?

[Doc Adams]

How do I? Well, them bills are his. I paid out $86 and 40 cents in that old soak before I run into Doc. Found out he died, and him without even knowing what we'd done for him.

[Kitty Russell]

You ought to be ashamed of yourselves. Oh, mighty fine talk for you. Doing his kin out of what's rightfully there. Oh, you beady idol. Why are you.

[Doc Adams]

Little girl.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, settle down. So you think I tricked you?

[Doc Adams]

Well, you don't think I'd have paid them bills if I knowed he was that far gone.

[Matt Dillon]

I thought I was giving you a chance to do something decent for once in your life.

[Kitty Russell]

We ain't responsible for his debts.

[Matt Dillon]

No, not legally.

[Doc Adams]

Now he's gone and died. He left all his wealth to this year. This year?

[Kitty Russell]

Woman, the way I hear, that box is full of diamonds and emeralds.

[Matt Dillon]

Whatever it's full of, it belongs to Kitty, so you may as well forget it.

[Doc Adams]

Forget it? When a fortune that's rightfully owned is laying right there on that table and about to slip through our fingers. You get your hands up, Marshal. You too, Chester. Albin.

[Matt Dillon]

Alvin. That was a real foolish move you.

[Doc Adams]

Just made, you know.

[Matt Dillon]

Now, you hand over the gun.

[Doc Adams]

Stay back, Marshall. I'll shoot, Albin.

[Matt Dillon]

I said hand over the gun, Marshall.

[Doc Adams]

So help me, if you take one more. You hit him.

[Kitty Russell]

You hit Elvin.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, drag him back and lock him up. Justice.

[Doc Adams]

Yes, Mr. Dillon. All right, come on.

[Kitty Russell]

You're locking up Elvin.

[Matt Dillon]

Assault with a deadly weapon. Judge Bent will figure it's worth about $100 in good hard cash, Ms. Cutler. And court's at 10 in the morning if you want to be there.

[Kitty Russell]

But what'll I do tonight?

[Matt Dillon]

Why don't you get yourself a room over at the Dodge house and meditate on your sins.

[Kitty Russell]

My sins?

[Matt Dillon]

Good night, Miss Cutler. Well, now, I suppose you want to take a look at your diamonds and Emeralds.

[Doc Adams]

I'm kidding.

[Kitty Russell]

Can't we just burn it, Matt? Not even open it.

[Matt Dillon]

Crowbait. Wouldn't wanted you to do that.

[Kitty Russell]

Yeah, I know.

[Matt Dillon]

Anyhow, you got too much curiosity to do something like that. And you know it's.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, you win, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Okay, let's see now. Yeah, I guess if we break the seal on the catch. There we go.

[Kitty Russell]

Matt, it's full of banknotes.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. Confederate banknotes. Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, what do you know? You suppose he thought they might fight the war over again someday, Matt?

[Doc Adams]

Maybe now.

[Matt Dillon]

Wait a minute. There's something underneath it.

[Kitty Russell]

What is it, man?

[Matt Dillon]

It's an army medal. Bravery in action Field citation awarded to Lieutenant Robert Danford Conroy.

[Kitty Russell]

See, that was his name.

[Matt Dillon]

For conspicuous heroism during the storming of Chapultepec Heights, September 13, 1847. Signed General Winfield Scott, Commander in Chief, United States Expeditionary Forces in Mexico.

[Kitty Russell]

Here's a silver dollar, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Uh huh. Well, at least that's worth something. Look, it's a ribbon.

[Kitty Russell]

Silk hair bow tied to a curl. Lock of hair, Matt. I wonder who she was.

[Matt Dillon]

Whoever it was, a long time ago.

[Kitty Russell]

Metal. A curl dollar. A box full of worthless paper. Story of a man's life.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, and there have been worse stories.

[Kitty Russell]

I'll keep the curl and the metal. And you know something?

[Matt Dillon]

What?

[Kitty Russell]

We'll spend the dollar on a drink.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Kitty. I think I'd please him. Come on.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

In a moment. Our star, William Conrad.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug. Here we have the Limu emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.

[Doc Adams]

Limu? Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty. Liberty.

[Doc Adams]

Liberty. Liberty Savings.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Very unwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates. Excludes Massachusetts.

[Dutch Vet Service Announcer]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 24,7 access to licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments. And shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.

[Kitty Russell]

Limu Emu.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug. Here we have the Limu emu in its natural habitat helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally Doug.

[Doc Adams]

Limu Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you need@liberty mutual.com Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Very underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Excludes Massachusetts Every year in America, property losses through fire amount to around $800 million. And 90% of these fires are caused by human carelessness. We put a match to 720 million dollar bills every 12 months. Unnecessarily. Every 20 seconds, fire breaks out. Somewhere in the United States, three fires will start. While this announcement is being read, the cost in human life is even more shocking than the property losses. 11,000 people die every year in fires and thousands more are severely burned and disfigured for life. These losses do not have to continue. Each of us can protect his home from fire by following these simple safety rules. Don't smoke in bed. Clean out flammable debris and have it carted away. Repair or replace worn and effective electrical equipment. Use cleaning fluids that won't burn. In other words, don't give fire a place to start. This has been a CBS Radio public service announcement.

[Matt Dillon]

Hello, this is Bill Conrad dropping the role of Matt Dillon for a moment to remind you to cast your vote next Tuesday in one of the most important elections of our time. After you voted, don't forget, CBS Radio.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Is going to be reporting to you.

[Matt Dillon]

Over this station the election story with the most comprehensive coverage in broadcasting history. Be with us next Tuesday, won't you? After you voted.

[L M Cigarette Announcer]

Gunsmoke, produced and directed by Norman Macdonald, stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, U.S. marshal. The story was specially written for Gunsmoke by Les Crutchfield with editorial supervision by John Meston. The music was composed and conducted by Rex Corey, sound patterns by Ray Kemper and Bill J. Join us again next week for another specially transcribed story on gun smoke.

[Doc Adams]

Foreign.

[Andrew Rines]

This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed. Please take some time to like and rate our shows in your favorite podcast application. Follow us on Facebook by going to otrwesterns.com Facebook subscribe to our YouTube channel by going to otrwesterns.Com YouTube and send us an email podcasttrwesterns.com you can call and leave us a voicemail 707-986-8739 this episode is copyright under the Attribution non Commercial Share Like Copyright. For more information go to otrwesterns.com copyright have a great day and thanks for listening.

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

And Doug, here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat, helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug Limu.

[Doc Adams]

Is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Liberty Mutual Announcer]

Cut the camera. They see us.

[Liberty Mutual Voice]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Variant underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company Affiliates excludes Massachusetts.

[Dutch Vet Service Announcer]

Time is precious and so are our pets. So time with our pets is extra precious. That's why we started Dutch. Dutch provides 247 access to license licensed vets with unlimited virtual visits and follow ups for up to five pets. You can message a vet at any time and schedule a video visit the same day. Our vets can even prescribe medication for many ailments and shipping is always free. With Dutch, you'll get more time with your pets and year round peace of mind when it comes to their vet care.