This is a rare two-part episode that well used every minute. The plot is complex, with multiple lines working their way to a satisfying conclusion. The opening scene is a man and a wife struggling to reconcile a long life together, with the inevitable tribulations, and parting due to a spate. It was intended by each to be but a temporary parting, to let things cool down, but ended up permanent due to tragic misfortune. That terrible event set the rest of the story into motion.
Ultimately, it is a narrative of integrity and duty, but surrounded by a humble admission of humanity. Several different people allow their prejudices to cloud their judgment, but are all essentially moral enough to listen to reason.
That essential goodness provided the means by which all of them to come to a better understanding, of themselves and others. There are no trite or preachy presentations -- instead just the acknowledgment of hard lives lived, filled with challenges, including a good bit of violent confrontation.
As the central guest star, Paul Stevens turned in a tour-de-force performance. He captured the center of attention and captivated the audience in such a manner, that we are surprised at the end just how powerful the effort really was. It was understated brilliance.
Gunsmoke endures as among the finest television series in history because it had the courage to dig deep into human psychology, and touch well the issues that face society. It resorted to no cheap theatrics, and no overly emotional appeals. Instead, it sought to bring people together through exposition of common human experiences, and bravely sought to establish elemental moral truths.
In seeking this, Gunsmoke created episodes such as this one, that stand well over many years, and provide valuable lessons we would all be wise to listen to.
If only television today could strive to reach as high!