Ep 23. Desert Justice

In the Bonanza season 1 episode 23, entitled "Desert Justice," the Cartwrights find themselves at odds with the local law when they come to the aid of a young man accused of murder.

The episode opens with the Cartwright family riding through the desert, searching for a lost herd of cattle. As they ride, they come across a young man named Sam Kirby (played by famous character actor Ned Glass) who has been shot and left for dead. The Cartwrights bring him back to their ranch to nurse him back to health, and soon discover that he is wanted for the murder of a prominent businessman in a nearby town.

Despite the evidence against him and the fierce opposition of the local law enforcement, the Cartwrights believe that Sam is innocent and set out to prove it. Their investigation takes them deep into the heart of the town and forces them to confront the corrupt political system that rules it. Along the way, they must contend with the local sheriff (played by veteran character actor John Dehner) and his deputies, who are determined to see Sam convicted and hanged.

As the episode unfolds, the Cartwrights begin to unravel the mystery of who really killed the businessman and why. They discover a web of deceit and corruption that implicates the most powerful men in the town, including the judge and even the sheriff himself. In the end, justice is served, but not without a few surprises and unexpected twists along the way.

As with most episodes of Bonanza, "Desert Justice" features the show's signature blend of action, drama, and humor. Fans of the show will delight in the familiar faces of the Cartwright brothers, including Adam (played by Pernell Roberts), Hoss (played by Dan Blocker), and Little Joe (played by Michael Landon). They will also be treated to a range of guest appearances by well-known actors of the time, including Dehner, Glass, and Constance Ford (who plays a pivotal role as the murdered man's wife).

Overall, "Desert Justice" is a classic episode of Bonanza that showcases the show's strengths. It offers plenty of action and adventure, but also weaves in themes of morality and justice that are timeless and universal. Whether you are a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer looking to see what all the fuss is about, this episode is a must-watch.