Ep 5. Enter Mark Twain

The show Bonanza, season 1 episode 5, titled "Enter Mark Twain" is a classic western TV series that premiered in 1959, and aired until 1973. The show centers around the Cartwright family that lives on a ranch called The Ponderosa, and their life in the old west.

In this particular episode, the Cartwrights are intrigued when they hear that Mark Twain is in town for a lecture. They are huge fans of his work and are eager to meet him. Mark Twain, played by veteran actor Howard Duff, is just as excited to meet them and decides to pay the Cartwrights a visit.

The episode starts with the Cartwrights preparing for Mark Twain's visit. They clean the house, prepare a big feast, and dress up in their finest attire. They eagerly await his arrival and are overjoyed when he finally shows up. Mark Twain is greeted warmly by the Cartwrights and they start conversing about his travels, his writing, and the old west.

Throughout the episode, Mark Twain engages in playful banter with the Cartwrights and entertains them with his wit and humor. He regales them with stories of his travels and the adventures he has had, including a hilarious account of a time when he had to retrieve a stolen mare.

As night falls, Mark Twain becomes the life of the party. He takes it upon himself to entertain the Cartwrights with his storytelling and has them laughing hysterically. Everyone is having a great time, but trouble soon arises when an old enemy of the Cartwrights, Frank Sawyer, shows up.

Sawyer is a ruthless criminal who is wanted for murder. He is also on the run from the law and has been on the Cartwrights' trail for some time. He had heard that Mark Twain was in town and followed him to the Cartwrights' ranch. His arrival puts a damper on the festivities and the Cartwrights quickly realize that they are in danger.

As Sawyer moves in to attack, Mark Twain comes up with a clever plan to distract him. He stages a fake speech, complete with fireworks, that lures Sawyer away from the ranch. The plan works, and the Cartwrights are able to defend themselves against Sawyer's attack.

By the end of the episode, Mark Twain bids farewell to the Cartwrights. He tells them that he had a wonderful time and was glad that they invited him over. He also tells them that he will never forget their hospitality and the memories that they shared together.

Overall, Bonanza season 1 episode 5, "Enter Mark Twain" is a fun and lighthearted episode that showcases the humor and wit of Mark Twain. It is a must-watch for fans of the western genre and is a great way to spend an hour in front of the TV.