Kitty | Gunsmoke (11-29-52)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns: Kitty | Gunsmoke (11-29-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Date: May 12, 2026
Episode Runtime: ~36 minutes (content: 03:07–32:51)

---

EPISODE OVERVIEW

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns showcases a classic, restored episode of Gunsmoke titled “Kitty” (original air date November 29, 1952). The story dives deep into the themes of social judgment, pride, and personal dignity in frontier Dodge City. Marshal Matt Dillon invites Kitty Russell, a saloon hostess, to a benefit dance—sparking controversy, gossip, and difficult choices about integrity and belonging.

---

KEY DISCUSSION POINTS & INSIGHTS

1. Matt Dillon Invites Kitty to the Dance

• Setting: Early morning at the Texas Trail saloon.
• Characters: Matt Dillon (Marshal), Kitty Russell (saloon hostess), Chester (Deputy), Sam (bartender).
• Matt's Invitation: Matt asks Kitty to accompany him to a community dance, a benefit for the new school. Kitty is hesitant due to her reputation and the town’s judgment.
  • Notable moment:

    “I’d kind of like to, Matt, but no thanks… The ladies might not take kindly to it. Matt, I… not rightly polite society.” — Kitty Russell (06:07)

• Matt’s Persistence: Matt insists, urging that her company is what matters.
  • Quote:

    “I want you to go. It’s important to me that you go.” — Matt Dillon (07:06)

• Kitty’s Final Acceptance:
  • Quote:

    “I shouldn’t, but I guess I’ll go to the dance with you. I’ll be ready at seven.” — Kitty Russell (08:09)

2. Community Reaction and Gossip

• Gossip Spreads: News of Matt escorting Kitty quickly circulates, stirred by Sam, the bartender.
• Chester’s Concern: Chester delicately warns Matt of the town’s reaction.
  • Quote:

    “It’s all over town about you taking Miss Kitty to the dance tomorrow night.” — Chester (12:59)

• Public Scorn: Townsfolk, especially the women, make comments about Kitty’s “place” and Matt’s judgment.
  • Notable moment:

    “It’s indecent, that’s what it is… What’s this city coming to when a United States Marshal…?” — Townswoman, overheard by Matt (15:13)

• Matt’s Reflection: As the criticism mounts, Matt acknowledges the power of small-mindedness.
  • Quote:

    “People—when they’re mean and small—there’s not an animal to touch them.” — Matt Dillon (13:39)

3. The Dance: Social Hierarchy on Display

• Arrival at the Dance (17:11):
  Kitty, visibly nervous and self-conscious, faces coolness and exclusion from the women; Matt tries to reassure her.
  • Quote:

    “You look fine. You look just fine.” — Matt Dillon (17:16)

• Inside the Hall:
  • Kitty is met with chilly reception. Mrs. Sprinkle is openly hostile.
    • Quote:

      “I have no wish to speak to you, Marshal Dillon, or this woman you brought with you. I will not have my husband serving such people.” — Mrs. Sprinkle (21:42)

  • Matt defends Kitty’s right to be there.
    • Quote:

      “Aren’t you being a trifle bad-mannered, Mrs. Sprinkle?” — Matt Dillon (21:53)

• Social Ostracism:
  Couples refuse to dance alongside Kitty and Matt, forming a visual and emotional barrier (23:27).

4. Conflict & Stand-Off

• Vigilante "Committee": Three men confront Matt, insisting he remove Kitty for the sake of “decency.”
  • Quote:

    “We figured it’d be best if you take your friend home.” — Committee Spokesman (24:20)

• Matt Stands Firm: He removes his badge, signaling this is personal, not law enforcement.
  • Quote:

    “Mister, I’m the marshal in Dodge City—” (24:34)
    “I’m taking this badge off… now come on outside.” — Matt Dillon (24:53)

• Kitty Leaves: Unable to bear the humiliation, Kitty walks out (25:19). Matt confronts the “committee,” warning them to leave town.

5. After the Dance: Emotional Fallout

• Reunion at the Saloon:
  The episode’s emotional climax unfolds in a quiet, poignant exchange.
  • Kitty tries to be strong, Matt apologizes for what happened.
  • Quote:

    “It wasn’t so much for me. For you. I wanted to cry right there in the hall, watching you and knowing there was nothing you could do.” — Kitty Russell (27:48)

• Self-Reflection:
  Both agree the blame truly lies with the townspeople’s prejudice, not themselves.
  • Kitty’s resolve:

    “I wanted it to be right tonight because of you.” — Kitty Russell (28:15)

  • Matt’s regret and pride:

    “No, I wanted you to go with me… That made me real happy.” — Matt Dillon (29:29)

• A Quiet Celebration:
  To salvage the night, Matt suggests opening champagne for Kitty, and they share a private dance, underscoring their bond and mutual respect.
  • Quote:

    “Miss Kitty, I think the next dance is mine.” — Matt Dillon (30:21)
    “I’d be real pleased, Mr. Dillon.” — Kitty Russell (30:26)

---

MEMORABLE QUOTES & MOMENTS (with Timestamps)

• Kitty’s Reluctance & Honesty:
  “Not rightly polite society.” — Kitty Russell (06:15)
• Matt’s Determination:
  “I want you to go. It’s important to me that you go.” — Matt Dillon (07:06)
• Town’s Disdain:
  “It’s indecent… What’s this city coming to when a United States Marshal…” — Townswoman, overheard (15:13)
• Community Hypocrisy Confronted:
  “Aren’t you being a trifle bad-mannered, Mrs. Sprinkle?” — Matt Dillon (21:53)
• Kitty’s Strength Through Tears:
  “It wasn’t so much for me. For you… I wanted it to be right tonight because of you.” — Kitty Russell (27:48; 28:15)
• Celebrating Dignity Against Prejudice:
  “Miss Kitty, I think the next dance is mine.” — Matt Dillon (30:21)

---

IMPORTANT TIMESTAMPS

• 03:07: Gunsmoke episode begins; intro narration and character introductions.
• 06:07: Matt invites Kitty to the dance.
• 08:09: Kitty accepts.
• 12:59: Chester tells Matt about gossip in town.
• 15:13: Matt overhears townswomen’s criticism on the street.
• 17:11: Matt and Kitty arrive at the dance.
• 21:42: Confrontation with Mrs. Sprinkle.
• 23:27: Kitty asks Matt to leave; confrontation escalates.
• 24:20: “Committee of Three” tries to eject Kitty.
• 25:19: Kitty leaves the dance.
• 26:34: Emotional scene between Kitty and Matt at the saloon.
• 30:21: Matt asks Kitty for the next dance (private, symbolic resolution).
• 32:51: Gunsmoke outro.

---

FINAL THOUGHTS

The “Kitty” episode of Gunsmoke is a stirring portrayal of social boundaries, the pain of exclusion, and the quiet heroism of dignity and compassion. Kitty and Matt’s relationship is tested against Dodge City’s prejudice, but their mutual respect and tenderness prevail. The episode’s restored audio and strong performances evoke all the raw emotion and realism of a truly timeless Western drama.

---

Transcript

[Spinquest Announcer]

Forget whatever plans you have this weekend because you're staying at home and playing on spinquest. And there's never been a better time to sign up than right now. New users get $30 coin packs for just $10. All the table games you love, with hundreds of slot games and real cash Prizes. That's at spinquest.coms P I N Q

[Spinquest Disclaimer Voice]

U-E S T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Onlooker/Commentator]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this your first date?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, no.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[Andrew Rines]

Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host, Andrew Rines. And let's get into this episode. This episode's going to be Gunsmoke Original Air Dates November 29, 1952 and the title is Kitty. Hope you enjoy. And again, thanks for listening.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Whether it's slots or live dealers, Spinquest.com has the fun and action you're looking for with Spinquest exclusives. Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and even live dice. With craps and bubble craps. The games never stop so you don't have to. And right now, new users get $30 coin packs for just 10 bucks. Play [e-mail] SpinQuest is a free to

[Spinquest Disclaimer Voice]

play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Onlooker/Commentator]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this your first date?

[Spinquest Announcer]

Oh, no.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent. Liberty.

[Onlooker/Commentator]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Grainger Announcer]

When you manage procurement for multiple facilities, every order matters. But when it's for a hospital system, they matter even more. Grainger gets it and knows there's no time for managing multiple suppliers and no room for shipping delays. That's why Grainger offers millions of products in fast, dependable delivery so you can keep your facility stocked, safe and running smoothly. Call 1-800-granger. Click granger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[Narrator]

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 the U.S. marshal and the Spell of Gun Smoke. Gun Smoke, 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 Marshal.

[Kitty Russell]

Sam.

[Matt Dillon]

How are you this morning, Mr. Bumby? Oh, hello, Marshall.

[Chester]

Morning, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Morning, Sam. Is Kitty around?

[Chester]

Oh, don't know. She's up yet. But if she is, she ought to be down soon.

[Matt Dillon]

I'll wait.

[Chester]

Nippy this morning.

[Matt Dillon]

Ah, feels good. It's a nice time of year, huh?

[Chester]

I don't know, I. I kind of like spring.

[Matt Dillon]

So Sam, you better wash that glass over. Oh.

[Chester]

Oh, yeah. Can I get you something? Beer, maybe.

[Matt Dillon]

Got any coffee?

[Chester]

Sure, just made a puff.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, that'll be fine.

[Chester]

Her face is something.

[Kitty Russell]

That's pretty. Man, you got a pretty voice.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, good enough for calling hogs, I guess. Yeah, you just got up a while ago.

[Kitty Russell]

Why?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, strikes me I haven't seen you close too early like this, huh? No, no, you look fine. I got. I mean that you.

[Kitty Russell]

You better quit by your head.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I guess.

[Kitty Russell]

Where's Sam?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, he's bringing in coffee.

[Kitty Russell]

Oh, Sam, cup for me, please.

[Chester]

Sure, Miss Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

What's the occasion, Matt?

[Matt Dillon]

Kitty, there's a party tomorrow night. A dance. It's a benefit for the new school down at the hall. You know, and ever fellows to bring

[Kitty Russell]

a girl, you know, it happens. It dances. God.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, when I'm trying to. Will you go with me?

[Kitty Russell]

I'd kind of like to, Matt, but no thanks. Oh, well, I gotta work here, you know that.

[Matt Dillon]

Besides, well, you ought to be able to get off.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, even if I could, ladies might not take kindly to it. Matt, I. Not rightly polite society.

[Matt Dillon]

Ah, what do you care about what?

[Kitty Russell]

Thanks anyway, Matt. Ah, that smells wonderful, Sammy. I think I'll marry you.

[Chester]

Me?

[Matt Dillon]

Shocks me. Oh, shucks. Listen, Kitty, about the dance I've already bought.

[Kitty Russell]

You're sweet mad and I thank you kindly for thinking of me, but you better ask someone else.

[Chester]

Well, it isn't kidding.

[Matt Dillon]

Sam, will you go and polish up your glasses, please?

[Chester]

Sure, Mr. Dillon. Sure.

[Matt Dillon]

Now look, Kitty, I'm asking you to go with me. Well, it's important to me that you go.

[Kitty Russell]

Are you making love to me, Mac, at this hour in the morning?

[Matt Dillon]

No, I mean it. I want you to go to the dance.

[Kitty Russell]

You want to be embarrassed? You want everyone to stare at us? You know what they'll say. My, my. The marshal really should have better sense than to bring that woman here. It ain't decent. It ain't proper.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, kiddie.

[Kitty Russell]

Well, it's true. I'm a hostess at the Texas Trail. A saloon. You know what they think about me.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, will you go? Kidding?

[Kitty Russell]

No.

[Matt Dillon]

I'll call by for you at seven.

[Kitty Russell]

I'll drink a bottle of whiskey and clout some old biddy on the head. Then you'll be sorry.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

I haven't got anything to wear, Matt. I can't wear my working clothes.

[Matt Dillon]

You look just fine like you are, Kitty. Just fine.

[Chester]

Just like you are,

[Kitty Russell]

Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah,

[Kitty Russell]

I shouldn't, but I guess I'll go to the dance with you. I'll be ready at seven.

[Matt Dillon]

How do you talk about a woman like Kitty? The color of her hair, eyes, the shape of her leg, the way she spoke, thought. Well, that's a picture you had to get by looking and hearing. Otherwise you. You'd never know it. And I felt real good about taking Kitty to the party the first time we'd really be out in company. And I liked the idea.

[Chester]

Oh, good morning, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Good morning, jester.

[Chester]

Nice day,

[Matt Dillon]

what is? That

[Chester]

that, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, all over my desk. That ink.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I know. I was just Cleaning it up, Mr. Dillon. Seems like a big blue bottle fly. Last of its kind this fall, I guess. Big fool blue bottle fly was a setting on your desk, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, you're slopping it all over the floor, Chester.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I see it. That lazy fool blue butterfly was a stomping all over your desk, Mr. Dillon. And I took a whack at him with a paper I happen to have in my hand and I got him.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, thanks a lot.

[Chester]

Well, that's all right, Mr. Dillon. If there's anything in this world I hate, it's a big maggoty blue bottle.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know. Chester, the mail come in yet?

[Chester]

Yes, a couple of minutes go. It's right over there.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, okay.

[Kitty Russell]

There.

[Chester]

I think that should do it, Mr. Dylan.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Chester.

[Chester]

Anything likely in the mail, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

No, no. Look, Chester, we better get these government circulars posted. Would you do that for me?

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I'll do that. Say, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, what is it?

[Chester]

Just about the dance tomorrow.

[Matt Dillon]

Now, what about it?

[Chester]

Well, you're going, aren't you, sir. Doc's going. He's taking Ms. McNish. I'm going. Everybody's going. You are going, aren't you, mister?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I'm gone.

[Chester]

Don't seem right a man you're standing not to go to a big social like we're. You are. Yes. Well, that's fine, just fine. Doc and. And me, we were talking and it just didn't seem right to us that a man like you didn't have no real nice, sweet girl to escort to a big social.

[Matt Dillon]

I got one, Chester. A real nice, sweet girl. I'm taking Kitty.

[Chester]

Miss Kitty.

[Matt Dillon]

I asked her before I came down. Is she accepted?

[Chester]

Well, that's good, Miss Kitty.

[Matt Dillon]

That's right, Chester. I gotta get a couple of letters off to Washington. Chester, you. You want to go and see about posting those circulars, huh?

[Chester]

Yes, Mr. Dylan.

[Matt Dillon]

Ah, fine,

[Chester]

Mr. Dylan.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, what is it, Chester?

[Chester]

Well, Mr. Dylan, it. It ain't none of my business, and I. I did not have no right to say it.

[Matt Dillon]

Say what?

[Chester]

Well, sir, I, I.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I was

[Chester]

wondering if I might borrow one of them fancy ties off you for the party.

[Matt Dillon]

That's not your business. That's what you haven't got any right to say.

[Chester]

Yes, sir. No, that's right.

[Matt Dillon]

You're a liar, Chester. But you can borrow a tie.

[Chester]

I thank you kindly.

[Kitty Russell]

That you're doing.

[Matt Dillon]

You work for a long time with a man, and you share a lot of life and a lot of death. And after a while, you. You know him even better than yourself. Well, that's the way it is with Chester. With me now, he had something on his mind, and I figured after a while he'd get it off. Well, the morning went and it was almost noon when Chester came back.

[Chester]

Gonna go have some dinner, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I think I will. How about you?

[Chester]

Hungry as a raggle bone.

[Matt Dillon]

Possum. Did you get the posters up?

[Chester]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, okay. Let's go.

[Chester]

Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah?

[Chester]

I guess there's something you ought to know, sir. There's talk.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, all right, Chester. Come on, get it out.

[Chester]

It's all over town about you taking Miss Kitty to the dance tomorrow night.

[Matt Dillon]

What do you mean, all over town? I only ask her this morning.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I know. Best I can figure. Sam over at the Texas trail. Must heard you and let it slip. There's been a mighty fierce mess of gum clobbering up and down all over.

[Matt Dillon]

All right. Thanks for telling me, Chester.

[Chester]

It ain't none of my business.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know. You said that before.

[Chester]

Yes, sir, I surely did.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, let's go get something to eat. It's hard to tell about people. Maybe it's hard to tell about yourself because you come under that same heading. People when they're mean and small, there's not an animal to touch them. Chester and I walked down the street and it didn't take long to hear and see what was going on. Some of the drifters leaning against the wall on the corner came right out with it.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Morning, Marshal. Understand there's Galentine's got herself a new bow.

[Matt Dillon]

What did you say?

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Maybe you ought to look into it, Marshall. Folks are being downright rude.

[Matt Dillon]

Mister, you're gonna. Come on, chester.

[Chester]

Ought to haul him in ever one.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, what are you gonna charge him with?

[Chester]

Pestilence, Mr. Dillon. Just plain pestilence.

[Matt Dillon]

I knew better what Kitty had meant about the ladies of the town. When a couple came out of Olivet's Dry Goods store. He didn't see me until it was too late.

[Kitty Russell]

It's indecent, that's what it is. Why she's come Nothing but a common saloon woman. What's this city coming to when a United states marshal.

[Matt Dillon]

Morning, Ms. Sprinkle. When a man's born, they say he's blessed or cursed with a lot of things already in him. Take pride, for instance. Sometimes pride can be a curse. Well, maybe I had more in my share. Maybe it would have been a sight kinder if I'd not taken Kitty to the dance. But I did.

[Narrator]

We will return for the second act of gun smoke in just a moment. But first, this hint for weekend driving. Whatever you do, be moderate. Be obedient to all traffic laws. Be careful. Use your head and don't take chances. Now for the second act of gun smoke.

[Matt Dillon]

I picked up Kitty at the Texas Trail at 7 the next evening. She was waiting by the side door. And when I saw her, she kind of moved back in the shadows. Almost as though she was ashamed for me to see her. Hi.

[Kitty Russell]

Hello, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

Are you all set?

[Kitty Russell]

Well, I guess so, Matt. Are you sure?

[Matt Dillon]

Hey, Kitty. You look fine. You look just fine.

[Kitty Russell]

Do you like it?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah.

[Narrator]

Yeah, I.

[Matt Dillon]

We walked along the street, down to the hall and I. I kept looking at her like. Like I say, you know, you had to know this Kitty to understand what I mean. And even then you get a surprise. She was like a 17 year old on her first date. And she was like all the women you'd ever known and loved. Soft and innocent and something else. Something that's female and you can't figure out what. Something that makes you Drunk without a drink inside you. It was snowing a little, and the flakes caught in her hair and melted into the black of her velvet cloak. And just before we went in, I looked at her again and I didn't care. I. I was proud she was with.

[Kitty Russell]

Evening, Marshall Dillon.

[Narrator]

Evening, Ms. Murphy.

[Matt Dillon]

You know Ms. Russell.

[Kitty Russell]

I. Do you have your tickets, Marshall Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, yeah. Here we are.

[Kitty Russell]

Fine. Go right in, won't you?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, sure.

[Kitty Russell]

Oh, excuse me, Mrs. Merson. Is there somewhere I can put my cloak? Oh, yes, yes, of course. The ladies reception room is right through there. I didn't catch the name Catherine Russell, man. Excuse me, ma'.

[Chester]

Am.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, sure, I'll wait for you.

[Kitty Russell]

Thanks. You better.

[Matt Dillon]

I could see them through the big open doors in the hall. They were all there, faces flushed, smiling, happy, dancing.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

And all.

[Matt Dillon]

The women seemed pretty and the men handsome. And Chester was up on the platform calling the dance. And Doc was fiddling. And I was waiting for my dancing partner, Miss Kitty Russell.

[Kitty Russell]

Now run away home and clean your own and leave my buffalo gal alone. You go.

[Matt Dillon]

Hi. What took you so long?

[Kitty Russell]

I saw him out. I had a skirmish with one of the genteel females in there.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Kitty Russell]

How says she? You know, I get the idea I'm not welcome around here.

[Matt Dillon]

Let's go in and get some punch, huh?

[Kitty Russell]

Sure.

[Matt Dillon]

How are you, John? Oh, that's a nice dress, Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

I haven't worn it since a few years back in New Orleans. Hey, Marshall. Oh, Miss Kitty.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, fine, Doc.

[Kitty Russell]

Hello, Doc.

[Chester]

I say, we got a bottle of whiskey outside. You care to join it? Oh, this punch?

[Matt Dillon]

Not right now, thank you.

[Chester]

Oh, hey, Miss Kitty. I saw you come in. Best looking woman in here. Oh, there's lots of scratching going on.

[Kitty Russell]

Thank you, Doc.

[Chester]

If you see Mrs. Magnesh, don't tell her where I am, will you? Man gets kind of dry fiddling.

[Narrator]

So long. So long, Doc. Punch, Marshall. Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

I guess so.

[Matt Dillon]

Mr. Sprinkle, have you met Ms. Katherine Russell? No.

[Narrator]

No, I'm afraid I haven't.

[Kitty Russell]

You got a short memory, Mrs. Sprinkle.

[Narrator]

Huh?

[Kitty Russell]

I could have swore it was you and the Texas Trail a couple of weeks back. Drunkard? No, Hoot Owl. Don't you remember? I had to slap your face, I think. Edward. Edward.

[Matt Dillon]

Yes, dear?

[Kitty Russell]

You let somebody else take care of the punch. I want you to come with me.

[Narrator]

Oh, Lord. I promised. I'm on the committee.

[Matt Dillon]

Evening, Ms. Sprinkle.

[Kitty Russell]

I have no wish to speak to you, Marshall Dillon, or this woman you brought with you. I will not have my husband sir, serving such people.

[Matt Dillon]

Aren't you being a trifle bad mannered, Ms. Sprinkle?

[Kitty Russell]

How dare you say that?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, aren't you?

[Kitty Russell]

I suggest that you leave, Marshall. You're not wanted here. Not with that woman you've seen fit to bring. Come on, Matt. I want to go.

[Matt Dillon]

No. This is a public dance, Ms. Frankel. Right now you're trying to make it private. If you can't behave like a lady, I'll thank you to leave this lady's presence.

[Narrator]

Now see here, Marshall can't talk like

[Matt Dillon]

that to my wife.

[Kitty Russell]

Hey, Kitty.

[Chester]

What do you say, Kitty?

[Kitty Russell]

Matt, please, I want to go.

[Matt Dillon]

We're not going anywhere. We're staying.

[Chester]

How about some music? All right now, folks.

[Narrator]

It'll be a wall this time.

[Matt Dillon]

Thanks for the punch, Mr. Sprinkle. Come on, Kitty.

[Kitty Russell]

I warned you, ma'.

[Matt Dillon]

Am.

[Kitty Russell]

Now, please, will you take me out of here before something happens?

[Matt Dillon]

Nothing's going to happen, Kitty. You and me are going to dance. Have a good time, that's all.

[Kitty Russell]

You're acting like a kid, Matt. It won't work. I've seen this kind of thing before.

[Matt Dillon]

May I have this dance, Miss Kitty?

[Kitty Russell]

Please? Matt, you're being pigheaded and you know it. Let's get out.

[Matt Dillon]

You refusing me, Miss Kitty?

[Kitty Russell]

Oh, Matt.

[Matt Dillon]

We danced, but it wasn't what I hoped it would be. Kitty closed her eyes. I guess she was trying to blot it out. But I could see the other couples looking, whispering and one by one dropping away over into a small group that got larger. There were only about six of us left when the wall scented. That's when the stranger and a couple of his pals walked out onto the floor. They were drifters. Probably been in town for a week. And they were having their fun before they moved on.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Marshall, I got a painful duty.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Folks in this town seem real upset about you bringing that woman in here.

[Matt Dillon]

What's your name?

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

I'm just a fella I kind of made myself. My friends here at Committee of Three. Seeing how everything's done by committees here and we. Yeah, we figured it would be best if you take your friend home.

[Matt Dillon]

Mister, I'm the marshal in Doc City

[Kitty Russell]

and I. I'm leaving.

[Matt Dillon]

You're staying here, Kitty.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

She's smarter than you.

[Matt Dillon]

Marshall, Everything all right? Everything's fine, Chester.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

This ain't a matter of law, you know, Marshall. It's decency and what's right, John. Marshall, this ain't right.

[Narrator]

Mister,

[Matt Dillon]

I'm taking this badge off. Chester, you stay here with Kid Matt.

[Kitty Russell]

Don't you do It.

[Matt Dillon]

Now, come on outside,

[Narrator]

you.

[Matt Dillon]

We're gonna talk some more about this out there.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Ah, it's cold outside. Now you be a good fella and get out of where you ain't wanted.

[Matt Dillon]

You know I won't hit you in here, don't you?

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Were you thinking of doing that, Marshall? Now that ain't lawful.

[Matt Dillon]

I ain't done nothing kidding.

[Narrator]

Kitty, Wait.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

Now there's a gal with scent.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, mister, I'm telling you, you and your pals are going to have to come out sooner or later. And when you do, you better start hightailing it out of Dodge before I catch up with you. We'll think of that.

[Townsperson/Committee Member]

We sure will, Marsh.

[Matt Dillon]

Just three no good drifters hating the law. Finding pleasure in trouble. Kitty had gone and I went out into the street. It had stopped snowing. Just cold. Much colder. I went up to the Texas trail. Only two people in there. Some guy dead drunk on a table. And someone else standing at the bar looking into the mirror at me.

[Chester]

What do you have, Mr. Dylan?

[Matt Dillon]

Nothing, sir. Yeah,

[Chester]

I got some things to do in the back. Give me a call if anyone comes in, will you?

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, sure. I'm. I'm sorry, Kitty. I'm sorry.

[Kitty Russell]

Bad. Bad.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, kidding. Oh, it's all right.

[Chester]

Sure.

[Kitty Russell]

So mad I could.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know.

[Kitty Russell]

I should have known better.

[Matt Dillon]

No, it was me, not you. No, it wasn't that either. It was all those polite ladies and gentlemen.

[Kitty Russell]

You did give me a crutch of whisk.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. Here.

[Kitty Russell]

It's been a long time since I cried.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, sure.

[Kitty Russell]

It wasn't so much for me. For you. I wanted to cry right there in the hall, watching you and knowing there was nothing you could do.

[Matt Dillon]

Nice mess of people we got in the Dodge.

[Kitty Russell]

No, it's not them, Matt. It's me. I've run into this before. The only difference was I didn't have you around. I wanted it to be right tonight because of you.

[Matt Dillon]

Lot of narrow minded prayer spouting.

[Kitty Russell]

Yeah, they hurt your pride, didn't they?

[Matt Dillon]

No, no, it wasn't that.

[Kitty Russell]

No?

[Matt Dillon]

No, I wanted you to go with me.

[Kitty Russell]

That made me real happy. But maybe we're different, Matt. You and me. Figure life different to them. That's not their fault. There's a lot of folks there. I know. I smile at them on the street. They talk to me. But tonight, well, that was different. I made him uncomfortable.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. I didn't do a bad job with you.

[Kitty Russell]

You can't look at it that way. And you can't go fighting the whole town either.

[Matt Dillon]

There's three fellas gonna get hurt.

[Kitty Russell]

No, I don't want you to do that. Matt. Just let it go.

[Chester]

Let it go?

[Matt Dillon]

Matt.

[Kitty Russell]

They don't mean nothing. You know what means something to me?

[Matt Dillon]

What?

[Kitty Russell]

That you asked me to go to the dance with you. I knew what was going to happen, but it was worth the chance. I thank you for it, ma'. Am.

[Matt Dillon]

You're a funny one.

[Kitty Russell]

Am I?

[Matt Dillon]

But you sure showed them up, those women, the way you look.

[Kitty Russell]

I'm glad. You know, you look pretty fine yourself.

[Chester]

Sam.

[Kitty Russell]

Yeah?

[Matt Dillon]

You got any champagne, Sam?

[Chester]

What? Have I got any what?

[Matt Dillon]

Champagne.

[Chester]

Well, yeah, I guess maybe a bottle or two.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, maybe.

[Narrator]

We'll break it out.

[Kitty Russell]

All right,

[Matt Dillon]

Miss kitty, I think the next dance is mine.

[Kitty Russell]

Oh, man. I'd be real pleased, Mr. Dylan.

[Narrator]

Gun smoke, under the direction of Norman McDonald stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, u. S. Marshal. Tonight's story was specially written for gunsmoke by Anthony Ellis with music composed and conducted by Rex Corey. Featured in the cast were John Dana, vivi Janis, Bob Sweeney, Lawrence dobkin and Mary Lansing. Parley bear is Chester, Howard mcnair is doc and Georgia Ellis is kitty. Gun smoke is heard by our troops overseas through the worldwide facilities of the armed forces radio service. 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 smoke. Don't miss Robert Trout and his timely roundup of world news tomorrow on most of these same CBS radio stations. Roy Rowan speaking. And remember, amos and Andy are here every Sunday on the CBS radio.

[Spinquest Announcer]

You know what? It sucks to be bored. But when I get on my phone and play real casino games on spinquest.com the time flies by. That two hour wait at the DMV seems like 10 minutes. Play your favorite slots live blackjack, live craps with a live dealer. New players, 30 coin packs are on sale for 10 bucks. Play spinquest.com and you'll never be bored again.

[Spinquest Disclaimer Voice]

Spin quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with liberty mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[Onlooker/Commentator]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[Matt Dillon]

Oh, no.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with liberty mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent, Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty this

[Grainger Announcer]

is the story of the One As a procurement manager for a hospital system, she keeps every facility in her network stocked and ready. That's why she counts on Granger to be her single source for thousands of products, from disinfectants to lighting, air filters and more. And with fast, dependable delivery, Grainger helps her keep every facility stocked, safe and running smoothly. Call 1-800-GRAINGER click granger.com or just stop by Grainger for the ones who get it done.

[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.

[Spinquest Announcer]

I'm here with Spinquest where you can play and win from the comfort of your own home with hundreds of slot games and all of the table games you love with real cash prizes. Right now, thirty dollar coin packs are on sale for $10. For new users, it's all at speed. Spinquest.com that's S P I N Q

[Spinquest Disclaimer Voice]

U E-S-T.com Spinquest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Grainger Announcer]

This is the story of the One as a procurement manager for a hospital system, she keeps every facility in her network stocked and ready. That's why she counts on Grainger to be her single source for thousands of products from disinfectants to lighting, air filters and more. And with fast dependable delivery, Granger helps her keep every facility stocked, safe and running smoothly. Call 1-800-GRAINGER clickranger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.