Post Martin | Gunsmoke (12-13-52)

Summary

---

Old Time Radio Westerns: "Post Martin" | Gunsmoke (12-13-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns
Air Date: May 19, 2026 (original episode: Dec 13, 1952)
Episode: Gunsmoke – "Post Martin"

---

Episode Overview

This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns presents the digitally restored classic "Post Martin" from the Gunsmoke series. Listeners are transported back to 1950s Dodge City, where Marshal Matt Dillon faces a moral dilemma involving Martin Blair, a man awaiting trial for murder and cattle rustling, and Martin’s unsuspecting sister, Katherine, who has just arrived from Boston to find her brother. The episode explores themes of justice, family loyalty, redemption, and the hard choices faced by those charged with upholding the law in the old West.

---

Key Discussion Points & Story Highlights

Katherine Blair’s Arrival in Dodge City

• Episode Opening (03:07 – 05:29)
  • Katherine Blair arrives in Dodge City from Boston, seeking her brother Martin. She meets Marshal Dillon and his deputy, Chester.
  • Katherine’s innocence and trust are contrasted with Matt and Chester's knowledge of Martin’s criminal situation.
  • Memorable Moment: Chester’s nervousness and humor at Katherine’s arrival, remarking, "My, I should have shaved this morning." (04:36 – Chester)

Martin Blair’s Predicament and Matt’s Dilemma

• Martin in Jail (07:43 – 09:04)
  • Martin, under the alias "Boston Jack," is awaiting trial for serious crimes.
  • Matt struggles with how to shield Katherine from the truth, while Martin pleads, "You gotta get her out of here, Dillon. Don’t let her find out." (08:25 – Martin Blair)
  • Matt’s empathy is clear, but his hands are tied by duty: "I don’t know if I can, Martin, but I’ll think about it." (08:47 – Matt Dillon)

Concealing the Truth

• Matt and Martin’s Plan (11:30 – 15:12)
  • Matt orchestrates a meeting between Katherine and Martin at Widow Markham’s, fabricating a story that Martin is working undercover to infiltrate a gang.
  • Katherine is relieved and proud: "Just wait till Mother hears about that. Oh, and she was so worried about you." (13:52 – Katherine Blair)
  • Martin, still conflicted, urges his sister to return home to avoid the impending scandal.

Martin’s Desperate Escape

• Jailbreak (16:33 – 18:35)
  • Martin uses a revolver he stealthily took from Widow Markham's house and breaks free from Matt's custody.
  • "If you take me again, you'll have to take me dead." (17:39 – Martin Blair)
  • Matt and Chester scramble to recover from being locked in Martin’s cell, fearing the consequences and Martin's next move.

The Pursuit

• Tracking Martin and Red Poly (20:31 – 25:30)
  • Matt infers that Martin will join his accomplice, Red Poly, and target the only witness, Ezra Hawks.
  • The tension escalates as they hurry to the Circle B ranch to warn Hawks.
  • Matt reflects on his dangerous line of work: "People who've never killed anybody don't understand a killer's worst enemy is his own nerve." (24:25 – Matt Dillon)

The Final Confrontation

• Shootout at the Corral (25:32 – 27:00)
  • Martin and Poly arrive and are confronted.
  • Poly is quickly dropped, and Martin attempts escape on horseback but falls and is trampled during a stampede.
  • "He fell off right in front of the stampede. They went right over him." (26:37 – Chester)

Breaking the News

• Telling Katherine (27:03 – 29:38)
  • Matt visits Katherine to break the news of Martin's death, preserving her positive image of him by omitting the truth about his crimes.
  • Katherine mourns: "Martin has always been fine and clean. He was just restless. People didn't understand." (28:42 – Katherine Blair)
  • Matt offers consolation: "He fought a good fight. That's something to remember." (28:38 – Matt Dillon)

Closure and Reflection

• Epilogue (29:51 – 30:19)
  • Chester reassures Matt, whose decision to protect Katherine from the full truth is affirmed.
  • "Martin paid his debt. No reason his sister should suffer." (30:05 – Matt Dillon)
  • The episode ends with Matt and Chester heading to join Kitty for a drink, seeking solace in small comforts.

---

Notable Quotes & Moments

• Chester Proudfoot (Comic Relief)
  "My, I should have shaved this morning." (04:36)
  Sets a light tone amidst growing tension.

• Martin Blair’s Desperation:
  "Maybe I'm no good, but there's no reason why Kathy should pay for it." (08:34 – Martin Blair)
  Shows his concern for his sister’s reputation.

• Matt Dillon’s Code:
  "But if it comes to it, I'll do it. You understand?" (11:45 – Matt Dillon to Martin Blair, about using deadly force)

• On the Law in the West:
  "The law is still pretty much for the man who shoots first." (15:23 – Matt Dillon)
  Captures the era’s harsh justice.

• After Martin’s Death:
  "He died hard. With all the odds against him, Martin never asked for favor. He fought a good fight. That's something to remember." (28:29 – Matt Dillon)

• Protecting Loved Ones from Harsh Truths:
  "There's no harm in letting her think the best of it. Martin paid his debt. No reason his sister should suffer." (30:01, 30:05 – Matt Dillon to Chester)

---

Important Segment Timestamps

• Katherine arrives and meets Dillon: 03:07 – 05:29
• Martin in jail, Matt’s dilemma: 07:43 – 09:04
• The cover story for Katherine: 11:30 – 15:12
• Martin’s escape: 16:33 – 18:35
• Strategy at the Circle B ranch: 22:31 – 24:00
• Shootout and Martin’s fate: 25:32 – 27:00
• Matt breaks the news to Katherine: 27:03 – 29:38
• Closing reflections with Chester: 29:51 – 30:19

---

Tone & Style

The episode’s tone is forthright, often somber, but threaded with gallows humor and stoic compassion. The performances—particularly William Conrad as Matt Dillon—are understated yet powerful, conveying the weight of duty and mercy in equal measure.

---

Summary

"Post Martin" is a compelling Western drama blending suspense, family tragedy, and the moral complexities of frontier justice. It stands out for its emotional depth—especially the lengths to which Matt Dillon goes to shield an innocent from heartbreak, even as justice is done. With crisp dialogue, richly restored audio, and memorable performances, this Gunsmoke episode exemplifies the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast’s dedication to breathing new life into classic tales.

---

Transcript

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Casual Commentator]

then.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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.

[Casual Commentator]

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

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Liberty. Liberty.

[Casual Commentator]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Liberty.

[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 dates December 13, 1952 and the title is Postmartin. Hope you enjoy. And again, thanks for listening.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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 spots live Blackjack, live preps 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. Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details. 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.

[Casual Commentator]

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

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

We.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Anyways, get a'@libertymutual.com or with your local agent.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[Jan from Toyota]

Hey, campers, it's Jan from Toyota. This summer we're headed to Camp Toyota and the fun starts now. We're kicking things off by kicking up mud. Jump in, campers. We're going off roading in a 4Runner. Next, we're heading to the hot springs in Arav 4. And finally, park your tundras and Tacomas around the campfire because we're roasting marshmallows.

[Matt Dillon]

Fellows.

[Jan from Toyota]

Your summer starts here.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Dealer inventory may vary so your participating Toyota dealer for details. Event hand stream first Toyota. Let's go. Places.

[Narrator]

Around Dart 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. 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 Marsh.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Mr. Dillon.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah, Chester?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

You want to see the prettiest site north of the Pecos, huh?

[Matt Dillon]

Sight.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Come over here to the window and look. What's a comin down the street?

[Matt Dillon]

None of it's anything besides trouble. That'll surprise me.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

She must come in on the Santa Fe from the east.

[Matt Dillon]

Wow.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Say, I think she's coming here.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, it looks that way.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

My, I should have shaved this morning.

[Matt Dillon]

Or even yesterday morning.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Now, what could a lady like that be doing in Dodge City? Say, maybe she's gonna work in one of the saloons, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

I hope not, Chester. Good morning, ma'.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Am.

[Katherine Blair]

How do you do?

[Casual Commentator]

I'm.

[Katherine Blair]

I'm looking for the United States Marshal.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'm the. My name's Dylan. Matt Dillon.

[Katherine Blair]

I'm Katherine Blair, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

It's a pleasure, Ms. Blair. May I introduce my deputy? This is Chester Proudfoot.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

How you do?

[Katherine Blair]

How do you do? I just got in on the train from Boston, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Oh.

[Katherine Blair]

The station master said that you might be able to help me.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'll be glad to.

[Katherine Blair]

I'm looking for my brother, Martin Blair.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Why, say, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Chester, will you punch up that fire? It seems a little chilly in here.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Chilly? Sure. Right away, Mr. Dillon.

[Katherine Blair]

Do you happen to know my brother, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

Yes, yes, I know him.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, good. Then you can tell me where to find him.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'm not too sure that I can. You see, he. He moves around a lot.

[Katherine Blair]

Yes, I know. He left home and came out west two years ago. Every time he's written us, it's been from a different address. He's always been that way. Restless, I guess you might call it.

[Matt Dillon]

Yes. Yes, I guess you might.

[Katherine Blair]

Mother's always thinking he might get into trouble out here by himself. But I tell her not to worry. He's young yet. He'll grow out of it.

[Matt Dillon]

I see. Meanwhile, though, you'll you'll need someplace to stay, I imagine.

[Katherine Blair]

Well, yes, I. I suppose there's a hotel.

[Matt Dillon]

I think the Widow Markham may have an extra room. You'd be better off there than at the hotel. Your baggage at the station?

[Katherine Blair]

Yes.

[Matt Dillon]

Chester, will you go to the station with Ms. Blair and then take her over to Widow Markham's and get her settled in a room?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Sure thing, Mr. Dillon.

[Katherine Blair]

This is awfully nice of you.

[Matt Dillon]

Not at all. And, Chester, will you explain the situation to Ms. Markham? I mean that we don't know where Ms. Blair's brother is at the moment, Chester.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, sir. I'll explain it to her, Mr. Dillon. After you, ma'. Am.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, thank you. You're very kind, Mr. Dillon. Goodbye.

[Matt Dillon]

Goodbye.

[Martin Blair]

Jack.

[Matt Dillon]

Wake up, Jack.

[Martin Blair]

I'm not asleep, Marshall. What do you want?

[Matt Dillon]

A jail cell usually softens a man up.

[Martin Blair]

Not this one, Dylan. Not now or 20 years from now.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, yeah, I know.

[Martin Blair]

You want something, or are you just making conversation?

[Matt Dillon]

Your sister's in town, Martin.

[Casual Commentator]

Kathy?

[Martin Blair]

Kathy's here in Dodge?

[Matt Dillon]

She just left the office. She's looking for you.

[Martin Blair]

What'd you tell her?

[Matt Dillon]

Nothing yet. Seems like a fine girl.

[Martin Blair]

You gotta get her out of here, Dylan. Don't let her find out. Get her on a train and get her out of here, huh?

[Matt Dillon]

Why?

[Martin Blair]

Maybe I'm no good, but there's no reason why Kathy should pay for it.

[Matt Dillon]

That's got nothing to do with me.

[Martin Blair]

Then you won't help? You won't keep her from finding out?

[Matt Dillon]

I don't know if I can, Martin, but I'll think about it.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Oh, evening, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Hello, Chester. Anything come up?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

No, sir. It's been the quietest night in weeks.

[Matt Dillon]

No trail herds in town. I guess that's the reason.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Ms. Blair's all right, I suppose.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. Yeah, she's all right, Chester.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Have you told her about her brother, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I told her that he's out of town and we're trying to get word to him.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

The truth's bound to get to her somehow, sooner or later.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know, I know. Only reason it hasn't already is because everybody in town knows him as Boston Jack.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, but his real name will come out at the trial next week, though.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I've been trying to get her to leave before then, go back home. But she won't leave until she sees him.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

You're sure gonna go hard with her when she finds out her brother's gilly

[Matt Dillon]

of cattle rustling and murder and horse stealing. And this time we got a witness.

[Martin Blair]

Yes, sir.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

I don't rightly see how you can keep her from finding out, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, come on, Chester. Let's have a talk with Mar.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Nice night, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, it's fine. Great night for taking a walk, don't you think so, Martin?

[Martin Blair]

Anything's better than rotting in that cell.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, where did you expect to end up?

[Martin Blair]

All you got is old man Hawk's word against mine. He's lying.

[Matt Dillon]

The jury will believe him.

[Martin Blair]

If he could see me so plain. How come he couldn't tell you who was with me?

[Matt Dillon]

It was dark. He saw your face in the gun flesh when you shot his foreman in the back.

[Martin Blair]

That's a lie.

[Matt Dillon]

As far as that's concerned, I know who was with you, But I haven't got a case against him. Red poly, wasn't it?

[Martin Blair]

I wouldn't know. I wasn't there.

[Matt Dillon]

Mm. I suppose we leave it to the jury.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Here's the way to Markin's place, Mr. Gillen.

[Martin Blair]

Yeah.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Martin. Let's get it straight now. You're here because you want to keep your sister from knowing the truth about you. Now, we're going in there and talk to her. Then you're going back to jail. You know the story I'm planning to tell her.

[Martin Blair]

I know.

[Matt Dillon]

I just want to make one thing clear. You are going back to jail. Chester will stay on the front porch and cover you through the window. And I'll be inside with you, also wearing a gun. Don't try anything foolish. I wouldn't want to kill you in front of your sister. But if it comes to it, I'll do it. You understand?

[Martin Blair]

Sure, I understand.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, let's go.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

I'll be there at the first window, Mr. Dillon. The parlor's on the left.

[Matt Dillon]

All right, Chester. Heads up, chester.

[Martin Blair]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

Good evening, Ms. Blair. Why, Mr. Dillon, I. I have brought you a visitor.

[Katherine Blair]

A visitor?

[Casual Commentator]

Martin.

[Martin Blair]

Hiya, Kathy.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, Martin.

[Casual Commentator]

Oh, Martin.

[Martin Blair]

Here, now, take it easy.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, it's been so long. Oh, Martin, why didn't you write?

[Martin Blair]

Well, you know how it is, sis. Say, maybe we can. Oh, go inside, huh?

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, of course. Come on in. Come in. I couldn't imagine who was knocking. Mrs. Markham has gone to bed and. Oh, here, sit down, both of you.

[Matt Dillon]

Thank you, Ms. Flair.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, Mr. Dylan. Where on earth did you find him?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I. I guess I better confess to you, Ms. Blair. I. I knew all along where he was.

[Katherine Blair]

What?

[Matt Dillon]

The only trouble was, I. I just couldn't produce him.

[Katherine Blair]

I'm afraid I don't understand you.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, you see, Martin's been doing Some work for me. Sort of secret work, you might say. We're trying to dig up evidence on a gang of cattle rustlers around.

[Katherine Blair]

Just wait till Mother hears about that. Oh, and she was so worried about you.

[Martin Blair]

Yeah, it's quite a job.

[Matt Dillon]

It's pretty hard for your brother to get away from the gang without stirring up suspicion. In fact, he. He's only got about an hour this evening.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, but you will manage more time in the next day or so?

[Martin Blair]

I'm afraid not, sis. I may not be able to get away again for a month.

[Casual Commentator]

A month?

[Martin Blair]

In fact, I've been thinking it over, and I think the best thing you can do is to take a train back home right away.

[Katherine Blair]

But I just got here, Martin.

[Martin Blair]

It's no place for you, Kathy.

[Matt Dillon]

He's right, Ms. Blair. Dodge City's no town for a girl alone.

[Katherine Blair]

But I came all this way to see Martin.

[Martin Blair]

It's like I told you, though, sis. It may be a month before I can manage to get away again. Tell you what. After this job is finished, maybe I can get back east for a week or so.

[Katherine Blair]

Oh, Martin, if you only could. We'd all be so happy.

[Martin Blair]

I can't guarantee it, but I'll sure try.

[Katherine Blair]

I'll admit I'm a little nervous here. By the very first thing Mrs. Markham showed me was a revolver. She keeps hanging out there in the hall in case of intruders, she said. Good heavens.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, this is the frontier, Ms. Blair. The law is still pretty much for the man who shoots first.

[Martin Blair]

Except sometimes.

[Katherine Blair]

Yeah, that sounds awful, Martin. You will be careful, won't you?

[Martin Blair]

I'm always careful.

[Katherine Blair]

I suppose I had better take your advice and arrange to leave in the next day or two. But meanwhile, we have an hour at least. Tell me about yourself, Martin. Tell me everything you've been doing.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Hey, it's cold in here, Mr. Dylan.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. You better get a fire started, Chester. I'll take Martin back and lock him up.

[Martin Blair]

I could use a little heat back in that cell.

[Matt Dillon]

You got plenty of blankets. Well, come on. Let's go. Now, you walk ahead of

[Martin Blair]

Dylan. Suppose the jury brings in a conviction. What's the sentence gonna be?

[Matt Dillon]

That's not up to me.

[Martin Blair]

I'm just asking for information. It means hanging, right?

[Matt Dillon]

Probably. All right. Stand right there while I open the cell.

[Martin Blair]

I don't want much to hang, Marshall.

[Matt Dillon]

Nobody does. All right, Martin, get INS

[Martin Blair]

Slow and easy, Dylan. Put your hands up.

[Matt Dillon]

Slow.

[Martin Blair]

Good. Now keep them that way.

[Matt Dillon]

Where'd you get the gun?

[Martin Blair]

In the hall at Mrs. Markham's. I slipped it under my coat when I was kissing Kathy goodbye. I'll take your gun now, Dylan. Thanks. Feels good to be holding a pair of guns again.

[Matt Dillon]

You won't be holding them long.

[Martin Blair]

Maybe. One thing though. If you take me again, you'll have to take me dead.

[Matt Dillon]

Any way you want it.

[Martin Blair]

In the cell, Dillon. Come on, move. Tell Chester goodbye for me, will you? I think I'll just go on out the back way.

[Matt Dillon]

What about your sister?

[Martin Blair]

I guess she wouldn't want to see me hang either. When you come right down to it. So long, John.

[Narrator]

We will return for the second act of gun smoke in just a moment. But first, if you've ever had delusions of grandeur or a particularly soul satisfying daydream, you'll understand the predicament of My little Margie. Tomorrow night on CBS Radio. Convinced that she's a princess, my little Margie, played by Gail Storm, gives her father. He's Charles Farrell, a royal pain in the neck. It's another comedy episode of CBS Radio's new Sunday night laugh program, My Little Margie. Tomorrow night on most of these same stations. Now for the second act of gun smoke.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Doggone it, Mr. Dillon, I know one of these keys is supposed to fit.

[Matt Dillon]

Chester, all I've got to say is it a better fit.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, sir, it'll.

[Martin Blair]

Well, that's not

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

would be a fine how to do if we had to call in a blacksmith to get you out of your own jail, Chester, it'd be sort of like the time.

[Matt Dillon]

Never mind, Chester. Just get the door open.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, sir. Oh, I know how you feel. All right, mister. Well, I declare. There you are, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Come on. I'll get the other gun out of the office safe.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Fine thanks you get for trying to help people.

[Matt Dillon]

Man gets careless and then he winds up in a jam like this. Hey, Lucina. All right. 27 left, 69 right.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

You sure gonna be hard to explain why you took Martin out of jail, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

If he gets clean away, we're gonna look pretty foolish.

[Matt Dillon]

He's not gonna get away, chester.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, sir.

[Matt Dillon]

10 to 1, Martin will try to team up with his sidekick, Poly before he heads out of town. Let's try the saloons first and see if we can pick up his trail.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Martin said we'd never bring him in alive, so don't take any.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

No sign of him in here, Mr. Dylan? Not unless he's in the back room.

[Matt Dillon]

Let's walk over toward the bar. That's bad business, Chester. Martin's already shot one man in the back we'll never catch him in the open if he's got anything to say about it.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yes, sir. I've been thinking about that. Kind of makes a man's spine crawl.

[Katherine Blair]

Hiya, boy.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Heavenly day, are you?

[Katherine Blair]

You act as though you were caught robbing a bank, Chester.

[Matt Dillon]

I've always suspected Chester of having a shady past.

[Katherine Blair]

Kid, have a drink, man.

[Matt Dillon]

No, no, we haven't got time. We can't stay. We're looking for a fellow, by the

[Katherine Blair]

way, who went bail for Boston Jack.

[Matt Dillon]

What do you mean?

[Katherine Blair]

Well, he was in here about 10 minutes.

[Matt Dillon]

He was in there, huh?

[Martin Blair]

Yeah.

[Katherine Blair]

He talked to Red Poly and the two of them left together. I thought he must.

[Matt Dillon]

You know where they went, Kitty?

[Katherine Blair]

Well, no, Matt, I haven't got any idea. But they sure left here in a hurry. He broke out of jail.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

There's 40 ways from Sunday. They could have ridden, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know. But if they're not in Dodge, there's only one way they'd hit the Circle B. Yeah. Martin knows Hawks is the only witness I've got against him. Come on, Chester.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Ranch looks quiet.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, we've been making time. Maybe we outrode them.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

If they're even headed this way now.

[Matt Dillon]

They better be.

[Casual Commentator]

Hold it. Who's there?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Somebody standing there at the side of the house.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I see. It's the marshal, Matt Dillon. Is that you, Ezra?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

That's right.

[Casual Commentator]

Come on up, Matt.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

What brings you way out here this time of night, Matt?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'm sort of counting on an old acquaintance of yours showing up here sometime tonight.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

What are you talking about?

[Matt Dillon]

Boston Jack.

[Casual Commentator]

Out of jail, Matt. How'd that happen?

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I doubt if it'd serve any good purpose to go into that right now. He hasn't been here, I take it.

[Casual Commentator]

No, Matt. He's a mad dog. Ought to be shot long time ago. I'd kill him on sight.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I came out here to make sure he doesn't kill you. Chester, put our horses in the barn. Get him out of sight, huh?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

All right, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

And you may as well stay there, Chester, and cover the yard.

[Martin Blair]

Yes, sir.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Well, what about us, Matt?

[Casual Commentator]

What are we gonna do?

[Matt Dillon]

Go inside the house and put the lights out and wait. That's all. Just wait.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Been 30 minutes, Matt.

[Casual Commentator]

I think you're on a cold trail.

[Matt Dillon]

I hope not.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Yeah.

[Casual Commentator]

You've had enough time to get here.

[Matt Dillon]

Maybe not enough courage, though.

[Casual Commentator]

They figured the odds are 2 to 1 in their favor. Shouldn't take much courage.

[Matt Dillon]

People who've never killed anybody don't understand a killer's worst enemy is his own nerve.

[Casual Commentator]

I'll take your word for it, Matt. I guess you've sat and waited like this plenty of times.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, too many.

[Casual Commentator]

Does it ever bother you, Matt?

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Do you ever get to wondering?

[Matt Dillon]

Wait a minute. Well, there they are, Ezra.

[Casual Commentator]

Where, man?

[Matt Dillon]

Over there by the corral. You see, they're walking the horses into the yard, slow and quiet.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah.

[Martin Blair]

Yeah, I see them.

[Casual Commentator]

What are you gonna do, Matt?

[Matt Dillon]

Go out and call them.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Oh, they'll fire from the dark without no warning.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I know. They're getting off their horses. Gotta walk up here, I guess. All right, Ezra. Stay in the house and keep out of this. Chester and I can handle him.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Well, Matt, good luck.

[Matt Dillon]

Thanks,

[Casual Commentator]

Martin. Poly, you're under arrester. I dropped Poly.

[Matt Dillon]

Martin's running into the corral.

[Casual Commentator]

Yes, sir. I see him, Mr. Don.

[Matt Dillon]

You're trapped, Martin.

[Casual Commentator]

A climb out of that corral. I told you how it would be done. Come on in and get me.

[Matt Dillon]

Sure, Martin.

[Casual Commentator]

I'm coming. Mr. Dunn. He's firing the hay rig. We ought to look. He's trying to ride the horse out. Matt.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Matt, are you all right?

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah, I'm all right.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

You didn't shoot him, eh?

[Matt Dillon]

No. He fell off right in front of the stampede. They went right over him.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Well, here we are, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Yeah. Wait here for me, Chester. I'll go in and tell her.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

All right, you.

[Matt Dillon]

I hope she believes me.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Don't worry, Mr. Dillon.

[Martin Blair]

She will.

[Matt Dillon]

I'll be out in a couple of minutes. Evening, Ms. Blair.

[Katherine Blair]

Why, Mr. Dillon, this is a surprise.

[Matt Dillon]

Do you mind if I step in?

[Katherine Blair]

Of course I don't mind.

[Matt Dillon]

Thank you.

[Katherine Blair]

Friend of Martin's is welcome. And Mr. Dillon, there's something wrong?

[Matt Dillon]

I'm afraid so, Ms. Blair. I've got bad news for you.

[Katherine Blair]

It's Martin. Something's happened to Martin?

[Matt Dillon]

Yes, ma'.

[Casual Commentator]

Am.

[Katherine Blair]

He's hurt.

[Matt Dillon]

It's worse than hurt, ma'. Am.

[Katherine Blair]

No. Oh, no.

[Matt Dillon]

Martin was killed in a fight.

[Katherine Blair]

Martin? Dead?

[Matt Dillon]

If it's any consolation, Ms. Blair, he. He died hard. With all the odds against him, Martin

[Katherine Blair]

never asked for favor.

[Matt Dillon]

He fought a good fight. That's something to remember.

[Katherine Blair]

Martin has always been fine and clean. He was just restless. People didn't understand.

[Matt Dillon]

No, I suppose they didn't, Ms. Blair. But he died on his feet, fighting.

[Katherine Blair]

I guess that's the way Martin wanted it.

[Matt Dillon]

Yes, I think so, ma'.

[Casual Commentator]

Am.

[Matt Dillon]

I suppose Ms. Markham's here. I wouldn't want to leave you alone.

[Katherine Blair]

Yes, she's here. I'll be all right, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, I'll come by and see you in the morning. If there's anything at all I can do.

[Katherine Blair]

You've been very kind, Mr. Dillon. I'm grateful to you.

[Matt Dillon]

I'm sorry about this, Miss Blair.

[Katherine Blair]

Marshall. I'll be leaving tomorrow.

[Matt Dillon]

Yes.

[Katherine Blair]

Goodbye.

[Matt Dillon]

Goodbye, Miss Blair.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

You all right, Mr. Dillon?

[Matt Dillon]

I think so. Chester.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Did she believe what you told her?

[Matt Dillon]

What I told her was true.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Well, there's no harm in letting her think the best of it.

[Matt Dillon]

Martin paid his debt. No reason his sister should suffer.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

That's right, Mr. Dillon.

[Matt Dillon]

Chester, if I remember correctly, Kitty offered us a drink earlier this evening.

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

That's right.

[Matt Dillon]

Well, let's go.

[Narrator]

Gunsmoke under the direction of Norman Macdonald, stars William Conrad as Matt Dillon, U.S. marshal. Tonight's story was specially written for Gunsmoke by Les Crutchfield with music composed and conducted by Rex Corey. Featured in the cast were Gene Bates, Sam Edwards and Ralph Moody. Parley Bear is Chester 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, Eve Arden plays the wise, cracking English teacher Connie Brooks of Madison High. Sunday nights on CBS radio and when our Ms. Brooks calls the role on comedy, there's laughter enough for all takers. Sunday nights and most of these same stations join Eve arden as our Ms. Brooks for high class classroom comedy. This is Roy Rowan speaking. America now listens to 105 million radio sets and listens most to the CBS Radio Network.

[Casual Commentator]

Sam

[Katherine Blair]

Foreign

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Whether it's slots or live dealers, Spinquest.com has the fun and action you're looking for with Spin Quest 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 now at Steam SpinQuest.com SpinQuest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Jan from Toyota]

Hey, campers, it's Jan from Toyota. This summer we're headed to Camp Toyota and the fun starts now. We're kicking things off by kicking up mud. Jump in, campers. We're going off roading in a 4Runner. Next we're heading to the hot springs in Arav 4 and finally park here. Tundras and Tacomas around the campfire because we're roasting marshmallows. Your summer start here.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Dealer inventory may Vary so you're participating Toyota Dealer for details Event Hand stream first Toyota, let's go places 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.

[Casual Commentator]

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

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Liberty Liberty Liberty Liberty.

[Casual Commentator]

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 Spokesperson]

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, $30 coin packs are on sale for $10. For new users, it's [e-mail] that's s p I n q u-t.com SpinQuest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Jan from Toyota]

Hey campers, it's Jan from Toyota. This summer we're headed to Camp Toyota and the fun starts now. We're kicking things off by kicking up mud. Jump in campers. We're going off roading in a 4Runner. Next we're heading to the hot springs in Arav 4 and finally park your tundras and Tacomas around the campfire because we're roasting marshmallows. Your summer start here.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Dealer inventory may vary so you're participating Toyota Dealer for details Event Hand stream first Toyota, let's go places. 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.

[Casual Commentator]

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

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

Oh, no. We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual Together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[Casual Commentator]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Spokesperson]

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

[Liberty Mutual Jingle Singer]

Liberty, Liberty, Liberty, Liberty.