Ep 8. Incident of the Lost Idol

In "Rawhide" season 3 episode 8, titled "Incident of the Lost Idol," the men of the cattle drive stumble upon a lone survivor, a Native American man named Running Fox. Running Fox tells the men that his people were forced to flee their village due to illness and that he is the last remaining member of his tribe. As a token of goodwill, Gil Favor and the men agree to help Running Fox retrieve a sacred tribal artifact that was lost during their haste to escape.

The artifact, a priceless golden idol, was taken from the tribe by a group of white men who Raning Fox believes may still have it in their possession. Along with Favor, two of his most trusted men, Rowdy Yates and Jim Quince, agree to help Running Fox in his quest. They set out together on a dangerous trek across the unforgiving wilderness to retrieve the lost idol and bring it back to its rightful owners.

The journey proves to be more difficult than anticipated when they discover that the men who took the idol are a vicious gang of outlaws who have been terrorizing the local towns. The men use their wits and expert knowledge of the land to evade the outlaws and retrieve the lost relic. Along the way, Running Fox shares stories of his tribe and customs, allowing the men to gain a deeper understanding and respect for his culture.

As they make their way back to the cattle drive, the men are ambushed by the outlaws, who have come to take back the idol. A harrowing fight ensues, pitting the skilled cowboys against the ruthless outlaws in a battle to protect the sacred artifact and their new friend, Running Fox. In the end, the men are victorious and return the idol to Running Fox, who is deeply grateful for their help.

"Incident of the Lost Idol" is a powerful episode of "Rawhide" that explores themes of honor, respect, and cultural understanding. The men of the cattle drive are forced to confront their own prejudices and misconceptions as they undertake a dangerous journey to help a stranger in need. Along the way, they learn to work together and rely on each other's strength to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The episode is a testament to the human spirit and the power of coming together in the face of adversity.