Ep 22. The Gallows

Marshal Matt Dillon has his hands full as he attempts to keep the peace in the town of Dodge City, Kansas. In the season 7 episode 22 of the classic Western television series Gunsmoke, titled "The Gallows," Matt must deal with a prisoner who is scheduled to be hanged for killing a man.

As the episode opens, Matt is in his office sorting through papers when a group of angry citizens burst in. They demand that a prisoner named Ben Cowdry be hanged immediately, without a trial. Matt is hesitant to do so, as he believes everyone is entitled to a fair trial, and the evidence against Cowdry is not clear-cut.

Despite Matt's objections, the townspeople are insistent. They say that Cowdry is dangerous and that they fear for their lives as long as he is alive. They also argue that it is too expensive to keep Cowdry in jail and that the hangman is already in Dodge City, so the execution should go ahead as planned.

Matt attempts to reason with the citizens, but they refuse to listen. As tensions rise, Matt begins to fear that the situation will spiral out of control. He must find a way to keep the peace and ensure that justice is served.

As the day of the execution draws closer, things in Dodge City become increasingly tense. Matt receives a surprise visit from a Circuit Judge, who tells him that he must hold a trial to determine whether Cowdry should be hanged or not. Matt is relieved to have the judge's support, but he knows that the trial will be difficult.

The trial is held in the packed courthouse, with dozens of townspeople in attendance. Matt acts as judge, while Doc Adams and Chester act as witnesses for the prosecution. Cowdry is represented by a young lawyer named Eric Taber, who is inexperienced but determined.

The trial is contentious, with both sides presenting compelling arguments. Matt struggles to remain impartial, as the townspeople have already made up their minds about Cowdry's guilt. But he knows that he must uphold the law, no matter what the outcome.

As the trial draws to a close, the tension in the courtroom is palpable. Matt must make a difficult decision, one that could mean life or death for Cowdry. But no matter what he chooses, he knows that he has done his best to ensure that justice is served.

"The Gallows" is a powerful episode of Gunsmoke that explores themes of justice, fairness, and the importance of due process. It is a reminder that even in a world where law and order are sometimes hard to come by, there are still those who are willing to fight for what is right.