Ep 39. Substitute Father

In Leave It to Beaver season 4 episode 39, titled "Substitute Father," Ward Cleaver's work schedule gets in the way of his planned camping trip with Wally and Beaver. To make up for it, Ward convinces his good friend Fred Rutherford to take his place and be a substitute father for the weekend.

At first, Wally and Beaver are skeptical about spending time with Mr. Rutherford, who is known for being strict and stern. However, as they begin their camping trip, he surprises them with his willingness to have fun and go along with their plans.

The boys bond with Mr. Rutherford over fishing and a game of horseshoes, but the real test comes when they get lost in the woods. Mr. Rutherford's survival skills come in handy as he helps them find their way back to camp.

Meanwhile, Ward is feeling guilty about missing the trip and decides to surprise the boys by showing up at the campsite. However, his presence causes tension with Mr. Rutherford, who feels like he's been replaced and unwanted.

As the night wears on, a severe thunderstorm hits, causing everyone to take shelter in a nearby cave. Mr. Rutherford, Ward, and the boys have to work together to keep each other safe and dry as they ride out the storm.

In the end, the experience brings the group closer together, and Ward realizes that Mr. Rutherford is an important figure in the boys' lives and that he should never be replaced. The episode concludes with a heartwarming moment between the two friends as they acknowledge the importance of their bond and their role as fathers.