Ep 11. Incident of the Night on the Town

In "Incident of the Night on the Town," the eleventh episode of Rawhide's third season, Gil Favor (played by Eric Fleming) and Rowdy Yates (Clint Eastwood) lead a cattle drive through tough territory, facing bandits, rustlers, and harsh weather. The episode begins with the drovers reaching the small town of Lambertville, where they plan to restock and resupply. Along the way, they encounter a stranger named Bud Ludlow (Strother Martin), who offers a friendly greeting and joins them on their journey.

As soon as the drovers arrive in Lambertville, they notice something is off. The town is deserted, with no sign of any inhabitants. As they investigate, they come across a town drunk named Gus (Harry Swoger), who informs them that the town's residents are all holed up in the saloon, frightened for their lives. Gus also warns them of a group of gunmen who have been causing trouble in the area, led by a man named Barby (James Coburn).

Despite the danger, Gil and Rowdy decide to stick around and find out what's going on. They head to the saloon and meet the town's leading citizen, Dr. Hyslip (Arthur Space), who explains that the town has been terrorized by Barby and his men, who have been robbing stores and killing anyone who gets in their way. Dr. Hyslip asks Gil and Rowdy to help him and the other residents protect their town and drive out the outlaws.

Gil and Rowdy agree to help and begin making plans to fortify the town and prepare for a showdown with the gang. They also try to recruit some of the townsfolk to help them, but most are too afraid to fight. Meanwhile, Bud Ludlow ingratiates himself with the drovers and begins cozying up to Rowdy, causing tension between Rowdy and Gil.

As night falls, the gang arrives in town, led by Barby and his right-hand man, Two-Twenty (Don Eitner). They begin sowing chaos and destruction, breaking into stores and threatening the townsfolk. Gil and Rowdy lead a team of defenders, using their skills as cowboys to outsmart and outmaneuver the gang. Bud Ludlow proves himself to be a valuable ally, using his own tricks and craftiness to help the drovers and townsfolk.

The episode builds to a tense and thrilling climax as Gil and Rowdy face off against Barby and Two-Twenty in a brutal shootout. The drovers and townsfolk hold their own against the gang, but at a great cost. Lives are lost and the town is left in ruins, but ultimately, Gil and Rowdy emerge victorious.

"Incident of the Night on the Town" is a classic episode of Rawhide, showcasing the show's signature blend of action, adventure, and Western tropes. The episode is notable for its strong performances, particularly by Eric Fleming and Clint Eastwood, who bring depth and nuance to their characters' relationships and motivations. The supporting cast also shines, with Strother Martin and James Coburn delivering memorable performances as Bud Ludlow and Barby, respectively.

Overall, "Incident of the Night on the Town" is a must-see episode of Rawhide, offering a thrilling and action-packed Western tale that will keep you on the edge of your seat.