Ep 2. Woman From Hog Ridge

The Rifleman season 3 episode 2, titled "Woman From Hog Ridge," follows Lucas McCain, a widowed rancher and sharpshooter in the town of North Fork, as he encounters a headstrong woman named Miss Milly Scott. Miss Milly arrives in North Fork from Hog Ridge and immediately sets out to start a business as a dressmaker, but her colorful and bold personality rubs some of the townsfolk the wrong way. Despite facing criticism and resistance from both men and women in town, Miss Milly refuses to back down and stands her ground.

As the episode unfolds, Lucas finds himself caught in the middle of the tension, trying to help Miss Milly navigate the obstacles she faces while also keeping the peace in North Fork. He takes on the role of mediator, attempting to smooth things over between Miss Milly and the women in town who feel threatened by her. Lucas also helps Miss Milly find a location to set up her business and even lends her some money to get started.

Meanwhile, a trio of bandits led by Hank Clay, a former friend of Lucas's, is in the area and planning to rob the local bank. When Lucas discovers their plans, he sets out to stop them and ends up in a violent confrontation with the bandits. Even as he is busy fighting off the criminals, Lucas can't help but worry about Miss Milly's safety.

Throughout the episode, the tension between Miss Milly and the rest of North Fork builds to a boiling point. Some of the women in town feel so threatened by Miss Milly's independence that they plot to ruin her business and reputation. Despite the odds against her, Miss Milly refuses to back down and continues to assert herself in the face of the resistance she faces.

In the end, Lucas manages to thwart the bank robbers and keep North Fork safe. While the town is initially hesitant to embrace Miss Milly, her persistence and hard work pay off, and she eventually becomes a beloved member of the community. The episode ends on a hopeful note, with Lucas and Miss Milly standing together in solidarity, both of them proud of the work they've done to make North Fork a better place.

Overall, "Woman From Hog Ridge" is a classic episode of The Rifleman that showcases the show's signature blend of action, drama, and heart. With its memorable characters and themes of empowerment and perseverance, it's a must-watch for fans of classic Westerns.