Ep 1. Border Patrol

Hopalong Cassidy is a classic western television series that premiered on NBC in 1949. The show was based on the popular character created by author Clarence E. Mulford and starred William Boyd as the heroic cowboy, Hopalong Cassidy. In season five, episode one, titled "Border Patrol," Hopalong and his trusty sidekick Lucky Jenkins (played by Russell Hayden) are tasked with securing the border between the United States and Mexico.

The episode opens with Hopalong and Lucky meeting with Border Patrol agent Hank Crawford (played by Lee Van Cleef). Crawford informs them that there have been reports of bandits crossing the border and stealing cattle from local ranchers. Hopalong and Lucky agree to help with the patrol and set out on horseback to scout the area.

As they ride along the border, they spot a group of riders in the distance. Hopalong recognizes them as a group of notorious rustlers led by a man named Kiley (played by James Bell). He tells Lucky to stay back and keep an eye on the horses while he approaches the rustlers alone.

Hopalong tries to reason with Kiley and convince him to stop stealing cattle, but Kiley is unresponsive. Suddenly, shots ring out, and Hopalong is forced to draw his gun. A brief shootout ensues, and Hopalong emerges victorious, but Kiley and his men manage to escape.

The next day, Hopalong and Lucky are joined by Mexican General Garcia (played by Nestor Paiva). Garcia informs them that Kiley and his men are not just stealing cattle, but also smuggling guns across the border to rebels in Mexico. Garcia asks for Hopalong's help in stopping the smugglers and preventing a war between the United States and Mexico.

Hopalong and Lucky agree to help and, with Garcia's assistance, track down Kiley's hideout. They launch a surprise attack and capture Kiley and his men before they can mount a defense. Hopalong and Lucky recover the stolen cattle and guns, but Kiley refuses to reveal the identity of the rebels he was working with.

Feeling guilty for his past actions, Kiley decides to cooperate with the authorities and leads them to the rebels' headquarters. Hopalong and Garcia meet with the rebel leader and convince him to abandon his plans for a war with Mexico. Peace is restored, and Hopalong and Lucky ride off into the sunset, ready for their next adventure.

"Border Patrol" is a classic episode of Hopalong Cassidy that showcases the show's signature blend of action, adventure, and heroism. With its exciting horseback chase scenes, tense shootouts, and dramatic plot twists, this episode is sure to please fans of classic Westerns.

As always, William Boyd delivers a standout performance as Hopalong Cassidy, portraying the character with rugged charm and a sense of honor. Russell Hayden is also excellent as Lucky Jenkins, providing comic relief and a relatable everyman quality that makes him a fan favorite.

Overall, "Border Patrol" is a must-see episode of Hopalong Cassidy that exemplifies why the show remains a beloved classic of the Western genre.