Ep 18. Yorky

Marshal Matt Dillon and his deputy, Chester, have their work cut out for them when a young and inexperienced ranch hand named Yorky takes up with a gang of road agents intent on robbing a stagecoach. Yorky, played by actor Michael Landon, is a likable but naive kid with more dreams than sense. He's enamored by the band of outlaws led by a man named Blackie, and decides to join them in their next heist.

Matt Dillon, played by James Arness, has known Yorky for a while and has always tried to steer him in the right direction. But Yorky's stubbornness and impetuousness lead him to ignore Matt's advice and make a fateful decision that puts his life in danger.

As they investigate the stagecoach holdup, Matt and Chester discover that Yorky had been hanging out with Blackie and his gang. They try to convince Yorky to leave the gang and turn himself in, but he won't listen. He believes that he's found a new life with the outlaws, and is blinded by the excitement and danger of the lifestyle. It's only when one of the gang members is killed in a shootout that Yorky realizes the error of his ways.

The tension and stakes are high in this episode as Matt and Chester race against time to capture the remaining members of the gang and save Yorky from a tragic fate.

The writing and performances in Yorky are top-notch, showcasing the complexity of human nature and the struggle between right and wrong. The episode is a prime example of Gunsmoke's ability to balance action and drama with subtle character development. It's a must-see for fans of the classic western series and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted story with a lot of heart.