Ep 10. New Orleans Menace

In the tenth episode of season one of "The Rifleman" titled "New Orleans Menace," Lucas McCain finds himself facing a dangerous threat to his town of North Fork. Set in the late 1800s, this iconic western TV series follows the story of widowed rancher and expert marksman Lucas McCain, played by Chuck Connors, as he navigates the challenges of frontier life while raising his young son, Mark, portrayed by Johnny Crawford.

As the episode begins, Lucas receives a letter from an old friend, Sheriff Andy Clyde, who warns him about a notorious outlaw named Gabe Fenway. The wanted criminal, responsible for countless crimes across the region, is rumored to be heading to North Fork with his gang. Sensing the impending danger, Lucas takes immediate action to protect his town and its inhabitants.

Lucas shares the information with the town's marshal, Micah Torrance, portrayed by Paul Fix, a trusted ally and friend. Together, they devise a plan to ensure the safety of North Fork. Aware that Fenway's gang is likely to arrive by train, Lucas proposes setting up an ambush at the train station to apprehend them.

With the town on high alert, people go about their everyday activities, but the underlying tension is palpable. Lucas urges the community to arm themselves and stay vigilant, hoping to prevent any harm from coming to their loved ones. He also instructs Mark to remain cautious and stay inside until the threat is eliminated.

As the day progresses, rumors continue to circulate, and fear grows among the townspeople. Among them is Millie Scott, a charming young woman who runs the town's café, played by Joan Taylor. Millie is particularly worried as she has heard that Fenway's gang is known for its brutality towards women. Determined to protect her, Lucas offers Millie a rifle and teaches her the basics of self-defense.

Meanwhile, Micah prepares a plan to set up a blockade at the train station. He enlists the help of a deputy, Johnny Drako, played by Robert Crawford Jr., and together they strategize a way to catch the outlaws off-guard. Micah's knowledge of the area proves invaluable as they plan their tactics.

As night falls, tensions reach their peak. North Fork's residents lock their doors and gather in their homes, anxiously awaiting the arrival of Fenway's men. The eerie silence is momentarily broken by the sound of a distant train whistle, signaling the impending danger.

The show masterfully builds suspense as Lucas, Micah, and their posse wait in the shadows, their eyes fixed on the approaching train. As it screeches to a halt, chaos erupts, and a fierce gunfight ensues between Lucas's group and the outlaws. The action sequences are intense and gripping, reflecting the show's reputation for its high-quality Western-style shootouts.

Through cunning and sheer marksmanship skills, Lucas and his brave companions manage to apprehend the gang members one by one. Each encounter is filled with suspense and showcases Lucas's expertise with his iconic customized Winchester rifle, affectionately known as "The Gun that Won the West."

As dawn breaks and the last of the outlaws are captured, North Fork breathes a collective sigh of relief. Lucas's unwavering determination and resourcefulness have once again saved the day. The town celebrates their triumph over evil, grateful for his courage and leadership.

The tenth episode of season one of "The Rifleman," titled "New Orleans Menace," is a thrilling and action-packed installment that exemplifies the show's blend of Western drama, strategic planning, and marksmanship prowess. As always, Lucas McCain rises to the challenge, protecting his town from the encroaching menace.