Don Mateo | Gunsmoke (12-13-59)

Sun Mar 02 2025

Original Air Date: December 13, 1959Host: Andrew RhynesShow: GunsmokePhone: (707) 98 OTRDW (6-8739) Stars:• William Conrad (Matt Dillion)• Parley Baer (Chester)• Georgia Ellis (Kitty)• Howard McNear (Doc) Producer:• Norman Macdonnell Writer:• Marian Cl...

Transcript

Matt Dillon (0:00)

Geico's motorcycle expertise gives me the coverage I need.

Kitty (0:03)

Like 24.7claims, I'm on cloud nine.

Cloud Expert (0:07)

Clouds are wholly unable to support the weight of an adult human.

Matt Dillon (0:09)

What's happening?

Cloud Expert (0:10)

Furthermore, clouds are not numbered. Even if you procured a jetpack and searched, you'd find no cloud numbered nine. However, at that altitude, you'd likely befriend a flock of migrating snow geese. Geese who'd encourage you to leave your 24.7geico motorcycle claims insurance behind as they would take you in and even share their dinner of crickets and clovers with you. GEICO assumes no liability for any indigestion that may occur from a clover cricket dinner. GEICO expertise for your motorcycle.

Andrew Rines (0:45)

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.

Narrator (1:13)

Around Dodge City and in the territory on west, there's just one way to handle the killers and the spoilers. And that's where the 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 (1:52)

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 lonely. Geico's motorcycle expertise gives me the coverage I need. Like 24.

Kitty (2:17)

Seven claims, I'm on cloud nine.

Cloud Expert (2:20)

Clouds are wholly unable to support the weight of an adult human.

Matt Dillon (2:23)

What's happen?

Cloud Expert (2:23)

Furthermore, clouds are not numbered. Even if you procured a jetpack and searched, you'd find no cloud numbered nine. However, at that altitude, you'd likely befriend a flock of migrating snow geese. Geese who'd encourage you to leave your 24.7geico motorcycle claims insurance behind, as they would take you in and even share their dinner of crickets and clovers with you. GEICO assumes no liability for any indigestion that may occur from a clover cricket dinner. Geico expertise for your motorcycle.

Summary

Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: "Don Mateo | Gunsmoke (12-13-59)"

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: March 2, 2025
Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Episode Title: Don Mateo | Gunsmoke (12-13-59)

Introduction

In this episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rhynes presents a digitally restored rendition of the classic Gunsmoke episode titled "Don Mateo." This episode delves into the intricate dynamics of friendship, duty, and the unrelenting nature of the Wild West through the characters of Matt Dillon, the steadfast U.S. Marshal of Dodge City, and his old friend, Esteban—once known as Don Mateo.

Plot Overview

The story begins with Matt Dillon asserting his authoritative presence in Dodge City, juxtaposed with a brief, surreal advertisement for GEICO motorcycle insurance. As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to the bustling environment of Dodge City, highlighting Matt Dillon's role in maintaining law and order.

Key Characters:

Matt Dillon: U.S. Marshal, a man committed to his duty but grappling with loneliness.
Kitty: Owner of the Long Branch Saloon, a pivotal figure in Dodge City's social scene.
Esteban (Don Mateo): Matt's old friend from his days in the frontier, returning with unresolved tensions.
Sam: The saloon's assistant, often acting as the intermediary.
Grimes: A farmer seeking help after being shot.

Reunion with Don Mateo

The crux of the episode revolves around the unexpected return of Esteban, formerly known as Don Mateo. Their reunion is fraught with nostalgia and underlying conflict as Esteban reveals his intent to find a man named Rallo, who has been causing trouble.

Notable Quote:

Esteban: "I've come to get a man. Maybe you know him. Maybe it's been a long time. But they tell me he is in Dodge City and I will find him."
[Timestamp: 05:05]

Matt Dillon is torn between his duty as a marshal and his lingering friendship with Esteban. Esteban's aggressive determination to hunt down Rallo reignites old alliances but also stirs tension between the two men.

Conflict and Confrontation

As Matt investigates the recent shooting of Grimes, he uncovers a web of deceit and lingering threats. Esteban's obsession with Rallo becomes a catalyst for the escalating conflict. The tension mounts as Esteban accuses Matt of abandoning their old ways, leading to a showdown that tests both men's principles.

Notable Quote:

Matt Dillon: "I'm saying this. If you go after this man, and if you kill him, I'll have to come after you. You come after me if you kill anybody. That's the way it'll have to be, because that's a law."
[Timestamp: 12:37]

The confrontation culminates in a dramatic shootout where Matt is forced to act against his old friend to uphold the law. Esteban's demise serves as a poignant commentary on the transformation from the lawless past to the structured present.

Themes and Insights

This episode masterfully explores themes of friendship versus duty, the personal costs of maintaining law and order, and the inevitable changes that time brings. Matt Dillon embodies the moral compass of Dodge City, while Esteban represents the bygone era of rugged individualism that clashes with established authority.

Notable Quote:

Matt Dillon: "Yeah, today I am. I'm sorry. It was my job."
[Timestamp: 23:56]

Matt's remorse highlights the emotional burden carried by those who enforce the law, often at the expense of personal relationships.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a reflective narration that underscores the enduring legacy of Gunsmoke and its portrayal of the American frontier. Host Andrew Rhynes wraps up by encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast community, ensuring that these classic tales continue to captivate new audiences through meticulous digital restoration.

Notable Quote:

Narrator: "Gun Smoke, produced and directed in Hollywood by Norman McDonald, stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, U.S. marshal..."
[Timestamp: 25:36]

Final Thoughts

"Don Mateo" is a compelling episode that not only entertains but also invites listeners to ponder the complexities of justice and friendship in a rapidly changing world. Through rich storytelling and enhanced audio quality, Old Time Radio Westerns brings the golden age of radio to life, preserving the timeless allure of the Wild West for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Listen to more episodes of Old Time Radio Westerns to immerse yourself in the legendary stories that shaped American folklore. Don't forget to like, rate, and subscribe to support the preservation of these classic dramas.