Ep 6. Thoroughbreds

Marshal Matt Dillon and the residents of Dodge City are in for an exciting time in season 4 episode 6 of the classic Western series, Gunsmoke. Titled "Thoroughbreds," this episode sees Matt once again facing down a group of dangerous outlaws, this time with the help of a young farmhand named Billy Poe.

The episode opens with Billy and his employer, a wealthy horse breeder named John Bailey, arriving in Dodge City to purchase a new stallion for their ranch. While in town, Billy becomes smitten with a barmaid named Lily, and the two begin a flirtation that is cut short when a group of bandits named the Basque gang arrive in town.

Led by a ruthless leader named Rojas, the Basque gang has been terrorizing the countryside for months, robbing banks and killing anyone who gets in their way. Unbeknownst to Billy and John, Rojas is actually a former employee of theirs, who has turned to a life of crime in order to enact revenge on his former boss.

When the Basque gang begins a bank robbery in the middle of town, Matt and his deputies spring into action, leading to a thrilling shootout in the streets of Dodge City. Though the gang manages to escape with the money, they leave behind several injured citizens, including John Bailey.

Determined to bring the Basque gang to justice, Matt enlists Billy's help in tracking down Rojas and his men. As they head out into the countryside, Matt and Billy encounter a series of dangerous obstacles, including a raging river and a pack of wild dogs.

As they finally close in on the Basque gang's hideout, Matt and Billy are confronted with a harrowing choice: risk their lives storming the hideout, or wait for backup and risk letting the gang escape.

What follows is a gripping confrontation that sees Matt and Billy fighting for their lives against the ruthless outlaws. In the end, it is Billy's quick thinking and bravery that saves the day, as he takes down Rojas and the rest of the gang in a thrilling showdown.

As the episode comes to a close, Billy prepares to leave Dodge City, with Lily by his side. Despite the danger he faced, Billy is grateful for the experience, which taught him the true meaning of courage and selflessness.

With its thrilling action sequences, tense plotlines, and memorable characters, "Thoroughbreds" is a standout episode of Gunsmoke that is sure to please fans of classic Westerns and action-adventure alike. Featuring standout performances from leading man James Arness and guest star Denny Miller as Billy Poe, this episode is a true gem of the genre, and a must-watch for anyone who loves a good Western tale.