Nellie Watsons Boy | Have Gun Will Travel (09-18-60)

Summary

Episode Summary: "Nellie Watson's Boy" | Have Gun Will Travel (09-18-60)

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Introduction

In this poignant episode of Have Gun Will Travel, titled "Nellie Watson's Boy," host Andrew Rines transports listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West, where themes of familial strife, responsibility, and redemption unfold. Originally aired on September 18, 1960, this installment delves deep into the troubled relationship between a young boy and his domineering stepfather, all under the watchful eye of the stoic gunfighter, Paladin.

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Main Plot Overview

The story centers around Johnny, the son of the late Nellie Watson, who seeks the help of the legendary gunfighter, Paladin (portrayed by John Dana). After Nellie's untimely death, Johnny finds himself under the harsh care of his stepfather, George, who embodies the oppressive patriarch often seen in Western narratives.

Johnny's visit to Paladin is driven by the distressing environment at home. George's tyrannical behavior has made life unbearable for Johnny, leading the boy to seek Paladin's assistance in escaping his oppressive household. The episode skillfully portrays Johnny's internal struggle and his desperate need for a paternal figure who understands and supports him.

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Character Development

• Paladin (John Dana): A paragon of integrity and empathy, Paladin serves as a beacon of hope for Johnny. His demeanor is calm yet authoritative, embodying the ideal Western hero who intervenes to restore justice and balance.

• Johnny (Ben Wright): Initially portrayed as a meek and troubled youth, Johnny's character arc progresses as he gains the courage to stand up against his stepfather's cruelty. His journey symbolizes the quest for personal autonomy and the search for a supportive father figure.

• George (Ken Lynch): As the antagonist, George is depicted as a harsh and domineering stepfather. His abusive behavior towards Johnny highlights the recurring Western theme of the struggle between good and evil within familial settings.

• Ms. Wong (Virginia Greg): Although a minor character, Ms. Wong provides a glimpse into the domestic life of Paladin, showcasing his role as a caretaker and the complexities of his personal relationships.

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Key Conflicts and Resolutions

1. Johnny vs. George: The central conflict revolves around Johnny's fraught relationship with George. Scenes depicting George's abusive treatment of Johnny and a horse serve to heighten the tension, illustrating the extent of George's tyranny.

   • Notable Quote [05:43]:
     Johnny: "And no matter what I do, I don't seem to be able to please him, Mr. Paladin."

   • Notable Quote [09:39]:
     Johnny: "I'll get even with you someday, George. I'll get even with you."

2. Paladin Mediates: Paladin's role as a mediator becomes evident as he navigates the volatile dynamics between Johnny and George. His attempts to reason with George and his willingness to stand up for Johnny underscore his commitment to justice and fairness.

   • Notable Quote [06:26]:
     Paladin: "The only way I can really help you is to take you back to your stepfather where you belong."

3. Property Dispute: A subplot involving a land deal introduces a new layer of conflict, with Mr. Roberts attempting to illegitimately purchase Johnny's land. Paladin's intervention ensures that Johnny's rightful ownership is upheld, reinforcing themes of rightful ownership and moral rectitude.

   • Notable Quote [19:40]:
     Johnny: "Mr. Paladin, a horse in the..."

4. Resolution: The climax sees Paladin confronting George, ultimately leading to George's downfall and the affirmation of Johnny's autonomy. Paladin's decision to take Johnny away signifies a new beginning for the boy, free from his oppressive stepfather.

   • Notable Quote [20:14]:
     Paladin: "There should be no question about that now."

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Notable Quotes

• “Only the truth often looks different depending on our point of view.”
  Paladin [03:30]
  This line encapsulates the episode's exploration of subjective truth and the complexities of interpersonal relationships.

• “He boy take advice, do breakfast himself. And with splendid results.”
  Paladin [01:20]
  Demonstrates Paladin’s trust in individual capability and self-reliance.

• “The only way I can really help you is to take you back to your stepfather where you belong.”
  Paladin [06:26]
  Highlights Paladin's initial inclination to resolve conflicts through conventional means before opting for a more drastic solution.

• “I didn't want to come back.”
  Johnny [08:25]
  Reveals Johnny's desperation and sense of entrapment within his current circumstances.

• “You Going? Do I have to take a razor strap to you?”
  George [09:51]
  Emphasizes George's volatile and threatening nature.

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Themes and Insights

• Family and Guardianship: The episode delves into the responsibilities of guardianship and the impact of abusive relationships on youth. Johnny's plight showcases the profound effects of familial neglect and abuse.

• Redemption and Justice: Paladin's intervention serves as a catalyst for justice, embodying the Western ethos of the lone hero who restores order and righteousness.

• Personal Autonomy: Johnny's journey reflects the universal quest for self-determination and the struggle to break free from oppressive environments.

• Moral Complexity: The characters are portrayed with depth, presenting moral ambiguities that challenge traditional notions of right and wrong, particularly in the context of frontier justice.

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Conclusion

"Nellie Watson's Boy" is a compelling episode that intertwines emotional depth with the classic elements of Western drama. Through its rich character development and intricate plot, the story underscores the enduring themes of justice, family, and personal growth. Paladin's role as a mediator and protector not only aids Johnny in overcoming his personal struggles but also reinforces the timeless appeal of the Western hero archetype. This episode stands as a testament to the storytelling prowess of Have Gun Will Travel, offering listeners a memorable journey into the heart of the Wild West.

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Note: This summary focuses on the narrative content of the episode, excluding advertisements, intros, outros, and non-essential segments as per the provided instructions.

Transcript

[John Dana]

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[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 have Gun Will Travel Original Air date is September 18, 1960 and the title is Nelly Watson's boy. Hope you enjoy and thanks for listening.

[John Dana]

Most people would rather remove a nest of irate hornets than search for auto and home insurance. That's why the zebra searches for you. Comparing over 100 insurance companies to find savings no one else can compare. Today@the zebra.com. i think I'll wait inside. I didn't say you were lying, Johnny. Only the truth often looks different depending on our point of view. Have Gun will travel starring Mr. John Dana as Paladin. San Francisco, 1875. The Carlton Hotel. Headquarters of a man called Paladin. Ah, an excellent breakfast, hey boy. My compliments to the chef. Oh, you thought? Thank you very much. He's shown great improvement. The coffee is both black and hot. The eggs perfect. Oh, not the same chef. Improving. Mr. Paladin. New chef. Oh. Who, hey Boy? You. He's Mr. Paladin. Say the only way to get things done right is do them yourself. He boy take advice, do breakfast himself. And with splendid results. Thank you, hey boy. My compliments to you. Now, if you'll clear these dishes away, I have some letters to answer. Hey boy. And I want to be left alone. Alone, hey boy. Alone and in peace and quiet I go. I live peace and quiet. Behold, somebody at door. Whoever it is, get rid of them.

[Johnny]

I want to talk to Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Oh, Mr. Paladin.

[Johnny]

I gotta talk to him. It's important. Oh, sorry.

[John Dana]

He's a part of him very busy.

[Johnny]

Listen, tell him Nelly Watson's boy wants to.

[John Dana]

Nelly. What? Hey boy, Let him in. But you say. I know what I said now. I say let him in. Oh, most confusing. Please, philando.

[Johnny]

Thank you. Are you Mr. Paladin?

[John Dana]

That's right.

[Johnny]

I'm Johnny. Nelly Watson's boy.

[John Dana]

Yes, yes, I can see the resemblance.

[Johnny]

That's What Mother said to say.

[John Dana]

How is your mother?

[Johnny]

She's dead, Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Johnny]

She always told me, johnny, if you're ever in trouble, if you ever need anything, you go find Mr. Paladin. So here I am.

[John Dana]

Constipation is something people don't talk about much, but it can be a problem for anyone, even doctors. And when constipation occurs, it's interesting to see just what doctors consider important about a laxative they might use or recommend. While a majority of the doctors we heard from had this to say, a laxative should be effective, gentle, close to natural acting. A medicine that can be used with complete confidence. Now, Ex lax has been popular with many doctors and millions of people over the years because, pleasant tasting chocolated exlax is effective overnight. It helps you toward your normal regularity. Ex lax is so gentle, so close to natural acting, there's no upset. That's why many doctors and millions of people use exlax with complete confidence. Ex lax, the laxative that helps you toward your normal regularity. Gently overnight. 18 years had not marred my memory of nellie watson, One of those rare individuals you never forget. We had been close friends in illinois during the years before the war. It was difficult to believe that she was dead. And now this was her son sitting in my room. No longer a child, not yet a man. Awkward, uncertain.

[Johnny]

And no matter what I do, I don't seem to be able to please him, Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Well, stepfathers are like that sometimes, Johnny, man. Fathers, too.

[Johnny]

I suppose it wasn't so bad while mother was alive, but after she died.

[John Dana]

When did she die?

[Johnny]

A couple of months ago.

[John Dana]

What was the matter with her?

[Johnny]

The doctor said consumption, But I think it was a broken heart, Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Broken heart?

[Johnny]

Yeah, from trying to please him. She tried and tried, but she couldn't. She died. And then I decided to run away.

[John Dana]

Johnny, you never solve a problem by running.

[Johnny]

Are you saying I should go back?

[John Dana]

He's your legal guardian until you're of age.

[Johnny]

I don't care. I won't do it. I don't have to.

[John Dana]

No, Johnny, you can keep on running if you want to. Lots of people do keep on running all their lives.

[Johnny]

And you won't help me?

[John Dana]

I didn't say that. No. But the only way I can really help you is to take you back to your stepfather where you belong.

[Johnny]

Take me back? You'll come with me?

[John Dana]

If you want me to.

[Johnny]

All right, Then you'll see for yourself. You'll see I'm not Lying?

[John Dana]

Why? Don't think you are, Johnny. Only the truth often looks different, depending on our point of view. Let's go see what your stepfather's point of view is.

[Johnny]

The ranch house is just over the next rise, Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Nice spread. Your dad homestead all of this? Yes.

[Johnny]

Mother had a hard time making it run after he died. Until George came.

[John Dana]

George?

[Johnny]

My stepfather. Mother took him on as foreman. And before he was here a year, he made her marry him.

[John Dana]

Made her?

[Johnny]

Well, I can't see why she'd want to. He must have forced her. Oh, there's the ranch house down there. Corral's over to the left.

[John Dana]

Wait a minute. Seems to be some trouble over there.

[Johnny]

Yeah, that's george.

[John Dana]

What's he doing? Beating that horse?

[Johnny]

Yeah, he threatened to get even with him.

[John Dana]

Get even? Why?

[Johnny]

Well, that horse sold him a while back. It broke his arm.

[John Dana]

The horse doesn't know why it's being beaten.

[Johnny]

I know that's the way george is.

[John Dana]

Come on, Johnny. A minute, Mister. What are you. Well, it isn't a prodigal son. Come home. What brought you back?

[Johnny]

I didn't want to come back.

[John Dana]

He made me. Huh? Who are you?

[Johnny]

This here's Mr. Paladin. He was a friend of mother's.

[John Dana]

Ah, dare say. Long time ago. Must have been. Don't ever remember hearing her speak of you. Hey, aren't you afraid you'll turn that horse into a killer? You already try to kill me. I'm gentling him with a bullwhip. Look here, Paladin, or whatever your name is, this is my property. And it don't pleasure me none to have my actions questioned. To make myself plain. Yes, quite plain. Now that we understand each other, I suppose I should thank you for bringing the boy back. But I didn't ask you to. This is his home. He belongs here. Well, not you. Here. I might as well put you up for the night. Too far to ride into town. I wouldn't want to put you in any trouble. No trouble for me. The boy does the cooking. Foreign.

[Johnny]

Help yourself to some more, Mr. Paladin.

[John Dana]

Oh, no, thanks, Johnny. That was an excellent dinner. His mother taught him how to cook. Pity he wasn't a girl. Make a good wife to somebody.

[Johnny]

All right, George, cut it out.

[John Dana]

Oh, raise your voice to me, young man.

[Johnny]

Stop picking on me. You do your own cooking, you little.

[John Dana]

Oh, you go to your room. Don't let me hear a word out of you for the rest of the evening.

[Johnny]

You see What I mean, Mr. Peloton? You see what I mean?

[John Dana]

You Going? Do I have to take a razor strap to you?

[Johnny]

I'll get even with you someday, George. I'll get even with you. Get out.

[John Dana]

Well, there you are. How am I going to make a man out of him? He's just starting. Give him time. Time? Time to listen to his complaints and his back talk. Maybe you don't understand him. He's still a boy. Yes, I do. As well as the next man. What's your interest in him? His mother was my friend, remember? Yeah. Paladin. Ain't I heard of you? Maybe. Yeah, I know. You're a gun, ain't you? A hired gun? You could say that. I don't know. I'm so glad you brought him back. Kind of peaceful while he was gone. Maybe he would be better off somewhere else. Yeah, but paladin, I'm not making any secret of the fact that I don't like him. I never did. Nevertheless, you are responsible for him. Not the way I look at it. Got too big for his britches and walked off the property. Let him stay off. But this is his ranch, isn't it? Legally, paladin? What's legal? I work this place. I keep it up. I was his mother's husband. Once she died, this place became mine. As far as I'm concerned, there's no question about that. Yeah, well, the law might have a different point of view. You're a smart man, paladin. But not smart enough to realize that I'm the law when it comes to this ranch. I don't appreciate somebody like you coming around sticking his nose into my affairs. What are you getting out of this anyway? Nothing. Nothing more than the satisfaction that nellie watson's boy is getting a fair deal. Let Paladin. You're a businessman. You work for a price, don't you? All depends. Let me hire you. What for? Take that kid off my hands for good. I'd be willing to pay whatever you thought was fair. It's getting late. I'm gonna turn in. Morning, paladin. Morning. You sleep on that offer I made you last night? I slept on it. Gonna accept it? Where's the kid? Down the corral, I reckon was up before me. There's some scrambled eggs in the skillet. Help yourself. Thanks. I asked you if you're gonna accept my offer. I can't understand why you don't want him around you. He's a big help to you. There's a nice home for him. All you have to do is make up your mind to be nice to the kid. It'll be good for both of you. I tried to be good to him. Don't work. I've given up.

[Johnny]

Morning, saladin.

[John Dana]

Morning, Johnny.

[Johnny]

That horse has got a real bad cut on his withers, George.

[John Dana]

Don't come crying to me about it.

[Johnny]

Well, you did it.

[John Dana]

Maybe I did, maybe I didn't.

[Johnny]

We saw you take a whip to him.

[John Dana]

You shut up, or I'll take a whip to you. Don't.

[Johnny]

Quiet, George. Why, you stand back here. You come one step further, and I'll run that bread knife through your ribs.

[John Dana]

All right, Johnny, drop it.

[Johnny]

He got no call.

[John Dana]

I said drop it. Sit down. Eat your breakfast. You too, George. It's pretty brave with a knife in your hand. But don't think I can't still whip you the way I used to.

[Johnny]

The day of coming.

[John Dana]

The day will never come when I can't whip you for your yellow, clean throat. Sit down. Sit down, johnny. Eat your breakfast. Well, Johnny, I guess you weren't exaggerating. Guess there's no pleasing him.

[Johnny]

Well, I told you, didn't I?

[John Dana]

The kid's big enough. Let him go out and make his own way in the world. George doesn't want you here, Johnny. That's clear.

[Johnny]

And it's just as clear that I don't want to be here.

[John Dana]

Well, then I guess there's no point insisting that you stay.

[Johnny]

You mean it?

[John Dana]

If you did, one or the other of you would probably be dead. The way you're at each other's throats, I guess that means you'll be going back to san francisco with Mr. Paladin, huh, kid?

[Johnny]

If he don't mind taking me.

[John Dana]

Not at all, Jenny. How soon you figure to get started, Paladin? Well, there's no reason why we can't pull out this morning. Now we got everything settled. I got to be going. Where you going? I got some business in town. Be away most of the day. Reckon you'll be gone by the time I get back? Probably. Good. About that offer, Paladin. You'll be hearing from me along, kid. Good luck.

[Johnny]

Yeah. Well, Mr. Paladin, that's that.

[John Dana]

Let's go. No, no, Johnny, that's not quite that.

[Johnny]

What do you mean?

[John Dana]

That's exactly what your stepfather wants us to do. He's too eager to get us off the place. He's too eager to get rid of you. He even offered to pay me to take you off his hands.

[Johnny]

He did? Why?

[John Dana]

I don't know, Johnny, But I think we better find out how. Wait, Wait. No, wait for him to show his hand.

[Johnny]

All right, wherever you say so. I might as well finish cleaning up the breakfast dishes.

[John Dana]

Yeah. Funny kid, Johnny.

[Johnny]

Funny how?

[John Dana]

Well, you don't find many ranch kids who care whether the dishes are done or not.

[Johnny]

Well, there's nothing wrong with it.

[John Dana]

Oh, no, no, of course not. I'll help you.

[Johnny]

You don't have to do that.

[John Dana]

Makes it go faster.

[Johnny]

There used to be some soap in a can on the shelf. I wonder if.

[John Dana]

Rocks.

[Johnny]

Now what's he keeping? Rocks in a can?

[John Dana]

Let me see one of those. Hey, they aren't exactly rocks, Johnny.

[Johnny]

Hey, there's a letter in here with them.

[John Dana]

Let me see it. Our independent assay verifies your figure of $500 to the ton. Our representative will meet you on the morning of the 24th to close the deal.

[Johnny]

$500 a ton on this land?

[John Dana]

Yeah. Come on, Johnny. Where we're going to leave, or appear to, I don't imagine George will feel free to show the property until he's sure we've left the premises. So that's just what we'll do.

[Johnny]

Aggie, your rug looks like new. Shampooed it myself. Right on the floor. And you said impossible. That's when I was all tired out with nagging backache and muscular aches and pains. And am I glad I took your tip about that. You said, try those pills.

[John Dana]

Good advice. That's Doan's pills, an analgesic and mild diuretic to the kidneys. Nagging backache also headache, dizziness and muscular aches and pains may come on with overexertion, emotional upset or everyday stress and stress. Pain relieving action is often the answer. And they also offer mild diuretic action through the kidneys. So if nagging backache is making you feel worn out, tired and miserable with restless, sleepless nights, don't wait. Try Doan's pills, used successfully by millions for over 60 years. See if they don't bring you the same welcome relief. Get Doan's Pills today. To save money by Doan's big economy size, we saddle our horses out in the open so that anyone who might be watching could not help notice our leave taking. Once out of sight of the ranch, we doubled back through the wood and left the horses tied in some underbrush. We had no difficulty making our way unseen back to the barn where we spent the hot and dusty afternoon waiting. Finally, George and another man pulled up at the corral.

[Johnny]

Who's that man living?

[John Dana]

Mr. Power, keep your voice down. Well, there she is, Mr. Roberts. She's all yours. Lock Stock and barrel, bought and paid for. We find some grub in the kitchen, blankets on the beds. Of course, until your outfit moves in. All right. Come on, John.

[Johnny]

You going on tonight?

[John Dana]

Yes, sir. Ain't aiming to spend another night in that place. You got your land, I've got my money. I'm heading for the lowlands to spend it. I wouldn't be too sure about that, George. Paladin, I thought you. Yeah, I know what you thought. Mr. Roberts, are you in the habit of buying property under false pretenses? Whether you infer that it doesn't belong to this gentleman. What is the meaning of this? Look, Mr. Roberts, I'm sure it can all be explained. I don't think so, George. So just give Mr. Roberts back his money. Won't somebody explain this to me, Bradley? George has attempted to dispose of the property of a minor without the miner's consent or knowledge. But I don't understand this young man, sir. Roberts, this young man is the rightful owner of this property. And I'm sure that he'll be willing to make a satisfactory leasing arrangement with you. But as to an outright sale of this property, I would advise against it. All right, Paladin, hold it.

[Johnny]

All of you, stay put.

[John Dana]

I've got his money in my saddle.

[Johnny]

Bag, and I don't aim to give it back. Mr. Paladin, a horse in the. I'm going out of here, rich man.

[John Dana]

Don't much care if I have to kill all of you on the way. Look out, George. That horse is coming for you.

[Johnny]

What? You Black fellow. Satan. Mr. Paladin, he shot the horse.

[John Dana]

All right, George, drop your gun.

[Johnny]

Oh, I guess I'll.

[John Dana]

George.

[Johnny]

Is he dead?

[John Dana]

Yeah. And the horses, too. Mr. Roberts. Yes? As I said before, this young man is the rightful owner of this property. There should be no question about that now. Yes, Come in. Well, well, Ms. Wong. Ms. Wong. How are you this morning?

[Johnny]

Good. Hey boy. Charlie. You come back last night.

[John Dana]

That's right.

[Johnny]

Where's your new son?

[John Dana]

My. My son?

[Johnny]

Hey, sonny son. Hey boy say you family man now. He say you have big, grown up son.

[John Dana]

Oh, you mean Johnny?

[Johnny]

How you do that all of a sudden? Have grow up, child?

[John Dana]

Well, it's. It's a part of the inscrutable occident, Miss Wong.

[Johnny]

Inscrutable ox. Will you be leaving hotel now? Set up housekeeping?

[John Dana]

No, no, I think not. Johnny will be in the east at school most of the time. He won't need a father. No, Ms. Wong, I have no intention of becoming respectable.

[Johnny]

Oops.

[John Dana]

Careful, Lucy. Chicken's got to be just the right distance from the charcoal. Yeah, that's got it. Everybody looks good and hungry, don't they? Hand me that French's Worcestershire, Lucy. Yep, folks, still pestering to get the secret of my barbecue sauce. Gotta admit, never tasted any better. Between you and me, Lucy, the credit's as much French's as mine. There's a combination of 15 spices and other ingredients in French's Worcestershire. All the right things to bring out the flavor is in hot or sweet barbecue sauce. French's Worcestershire really spice it up or to it's made by the French's mustard people. Yep, all ready now, folks. Here's a special recipe offer. Get 12 delicious new barbecue sauce recipes just right. Barbecue book, box 56. That's box 56. Rochester, New York. Have gun will Trouble, created by Herb Meadow and Sam Rolfe, is produced and directed in Hollywood by Frank Paris and stars John Dana as Paladin with Ben Wright as Hey Boy and Virginia Greg as Ms. Wong. Tonight's story was specially written for have Gun Will Travel by William N. Robeson. Featured in the cast were Ken lynch and Sam Edwards. And now here's our star, John Dana. We have the cast and the production staff of have Gun Will Travel. Send our sincere congratulations to the management and staff of KNX Radio, the CBS radio station in Los Angeles, which this week celebrates its 40th anniversary. Anniversary. We're mighty happy. KNX is one of the CBS radio stations that carries our program every Sunday. Congratulations and best wishes. This is Hugh Douglas inviting you to join us again next week when CBS Radio presents have Gun Will Travel.

[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 podcast trwesterns. 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.

[Johnny]

Sam.