Ep 21. The Hayburner

Ben Cartwright and his sons Hoss and Little Joe are faced with a new challenge in season 4 episode 21 of Bonanza, titled "The Hayburner." When a wild horse is captured on the Ponderosa ranch, Little Joe takes a liking to the animal and decides to tame it. However, a neighboring rancher, Buck Addison, claims that the horse belongs to him and demands that it be returned. Ben argues that the horse was captured on his land and therefore belongs to him, but Addison insists on taking the matter to court.

As the case unfolds, tensions rise between the two sides. Addison, a wealthy and influential man, tries to use his influence to sway the court in his favor, but Ben and his sons refuse to back down. Little Joe becomes particularly attached to the horse, which he names Blackie, and is determined to keep him.

Meanwhile, a romantic subplot unfolds between Hoss and a beautiful stranger named Lotta Crabtree. Lotta is a talented performer who is passing through town with her theater troupe. Hoss is immediately smitten with her and goes out of his way to impress her. However, Lotta is more interested in making a business deal with the Cartwrights than in romance.

As the trial continues, the Cartwrights discover that Addison has been tampering with evidence and using his wealth and influence to bribe witnesses. They are determined to expose his corruption and win the case, but they must act quickly before it's too late.

In the end, justice prevails, and the court rules in favor of the Cartwrights. Little Joe is delighted to keep Blackie, and Hoss is heartbroken when Lotta leaves town. However, he is consoled by the knowledge that he did the right thing by standing up to Addison and fighting for what was right.

"The Hayburner" is an exciting and suspenseful episode that showcases the resilience and determination of the Cartwright family. Despite facing powerful opposition, they remain steadfast in their commitment to justice and fairness. The episode also features some memorable performances, particularly by Lorne Greene as Ben Cartwright and Michael Landon as Little Joe. Overall, it's a must-watch episode for fans of this classic Western series.