Ep 12. Champaigne Safari

"Have Gun, Will Travel" is a classic Western television series that aired from 1957 to 1963. Set in the late 19th century, it follows the adventures of Paladin, a gunfighter-for-hire with a strong moral code and a taste for refined living. Each episode features Paladin as he travels throughout the Wild West, taking on various assignments that often involve conflicts of honor, justice, and personal redemption.

Episode 12 of Season 3, titled "Champagne Safari," takes Paladin to the rugged frontier of Arizona. As the episode begins, Paladin receives a letter from a wealthy British gentleman named Sir Richard Stapleton. Sir Stapleton, a renowned big-game hunter, requests Paladin's services on a unique venture: a luxurious champagne safari deep within the heart of Apache territory.

Intrigued by the opportunity for adventure and curious about Sir Stapleton's intentions, Paladin accepts the invitation and makes his way to the desolate outpost town of Twin Oaks. Upon his arrival, Paladin encounters a hostile reception from the townsfolk, who are wary of outsiders and resentful of wealthy hunters encroaching on Apache land.

Undeterred by the locals' animosity, Paladin meets with Sir Stapleton at the local saloon. The British nobleman, accompanied by his wife Lady Agatha, explains that their champagne safari is not merely an indulgent excursion, but a mission to document and observe wildlife in its natural habitat. Sir Stapleton strongly believes that such an endeavor can help promote conservation efforts and preserve the vanishing wilderness.

However, tensions rise when Paladin learns that Sir Stapleton's hunting methods are less ethical than advertised. Instead of using cameras and tranquilizers as originally promised, Sir Stapleton intends to engage in trophy hunting. This revelation sparks a clash of ideologies as Paladin vehemently opposes the senseless killing of animals for sport, while Sir Stapleton defends his position based on personal ambition and the thrill of the hunt.

As the champagne safari commences, Paladin finds himself torn between fulfilling his obligation to his client and standing up for what he believes is right. Alongside the inebriated Sir Stapleton and an eclectic group of hunters, including a grizzled war veteran, a boisterous explorer, and a cunning big-game poacher, Paladin embarks on a treacherous journey through the unforgiving Apache territory.

As the group ventures deeper into the wilderness, they face a multitude of dangers that test their resolve and expose their true intentions. Raging rivers, elusive prey, and Apache war parties all conspire to complicate their already tense expedition. Paladin's resourcefulness and survival skills are put to the ultimate test as he tries to prevent unnecessary bloodshed while keeping the safari participants safe.

As the episodes nears its climax, Paladin is forced to confront not only the external threats but also the internal conflicts within himself and his fellow hunters. In a dramatic turn of events, he must make a decision that will forever alter the course of the champagne safari and potentially impact the lives of everyone involved. Will Paladin be able to reconcile his principles with the demands of his client, or will he be forced to take a stand against the very people who hired him?

"Champagne Safari" is a riveting episode of "Have Gun, Will Travel" that delves into complex ethical dilemmas and the clash between tradition and progress. As Paladin navigates the treacherous landscapes of the Wild West, viewers are treated to a suspenseful tale of survival, moral introspection, and the battle to preserve what is truly valuable in a changing world.