Original subtitles

I'm still sorry, Miss Jennifer.

Sorry? Jebb, if-- if you can drink as much as you drank last night...

and still throw Bart Crane through that window at your age,

you've got nothing to be sorry about.

Reckon that's right, at that.

But next time, throw him through the door. It's cheaper.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Could you tell me where I'd find a man who calls himself Major Ralph Forrester?

- Calls himself? - Why do you want him?

Then you do know him, and he does live here?

We know him, and he does.

Good. Now, could you tell me where I'd find the law in this town?

- Which do you want, mister, the major or the law? - Both.

You'll find Sheriff Killigrew at the jail, next to the last building, off the street.

Thanks.

Miss? Pardon me.

Where was it anyway? Medicine Bow or Laramie?

What are you talking about?

I'm sure I've seen you somewhere before.

That could be.

I've been a few places, but it wasn't Medicine Bow or Laramie.

- Sorry, Miss, uh-- - McLeod.

- Laura Belle McLeod? - No.

Just a guess. I thought maybe you owned the place.No, I just run it.

In that case, I might just be stopping back.

Meanwhile, I'll try to remember.

Don't look so glum, Sheriff.

He wants to see the major.What about?

[ Killigrew ] You tell him. [ Woman ] Who is it, Leonard?

He has business with the major, ma'am.

Perhaps I can help. Or if it's business, Mr. Walters here is our manager.

He handles most details for our company.

I think it'd be better if I saw your husband, Mrs. Forrester.

The major is very busy. I would prefer to know why before we disturb him.

Begging your pardon, ma'am, but I still think it'd be better if I saw your husband.

- Please come in. - Thank you.

Leonard, would you be good enough to find the major? I believe he's at the stables.

Of course, Laura.I'll come along.

May I offer you some refreshment?No, thank you, ma'am.

Please sit down.

My father, General Lawrence Otis,

commanding the Fifth Illinois Volunteers.

My husband was his chief of staff and one of the youngest majors in the Union Army.

Your, uh, first trip to Honesty?

Yes, ma'am. I wondered about the origin of the name.My father's idea.

He founded the town, actually.

Honesty was my mother's Christian name. She was a New Englander.

I see.You should have seen it 15 years ago...

when the mine was in full production and our cattle operations were--

Oh, Ralph, dear. This is my husband, Major Forrester. Ralph, this gentleman--

Yes. Sheriff Killigrew has already informed me who this gentleman is,

and of the impertinence of his mission here.

Well, now, Major, the judge back home didn't seem to think it was impertinent.

Judge Garth? No. I meant the circuit judge.

Major, if we could discuss this alone, maybe--

There is nothing to discuss, sir.

Now the sheriff has a paper that says there is.

May I see that paper, please?

[ Chuckles ] There's obviously some mistake.

A charge of fraud against my husband is ridiculous.

The fact remains, ma'am,

that the deeds Major Forrester used to buy that herd from Judge Garth were forged,

every one of 'em.Deeds?

Those deeds were perfectly valid.

They were honestly bought and honestly delivered.

Well, then you shouldn't have any trouble at all...

straightening the problem out when we get back to Medicine Bow.

You think for one minute I'm going to return to Medicine Bow with you...

over this ridiculous incident?

That paper says you will.

Since you didn't answer any of the letters Judge Garth wrote you about the problem,

the court there says you'll have to come back.

And it'll be my pleasure to accompany you.

Sheriff Killigrew,

you'll please accompany this gentleman out of this house...

and out of this town.

Ralph, dear, isn't there a more reasonable way?

Sheriff, please find Judge Dodge and bring him here.

[ Chuckles ]

This court, having considered the warrant duly presented...

in the matter of the criminal complaint...

brought by Judge Henry Garth versus Major Ralph Forrester--

Now wait just a minute.

Are you trying to tell me that this is an official court hearing?

Are you telling me, sir, that it is not?

You try a man here in his own home at his orders?

[ Judge Dodge ] Young man, do you wish to be held for contempt?

This is not a trial,

but an official hearing to examine the validity of this warrant.

Are you saying it's not valid?

I am not.

Then send him back with me to stand trial.

I cannot do that.

You, um, are not a regular officer of the law in Medicine Bow.

Is that correct?Well, of course I'm not.

Like that paper says, I was deputized by Sheriff Brannon for this specific job.

Improperly, if I may say so, sir.

Section 417 of the Territorial Code states...

that only a regular officer of the law...

can transport an accused in a criminal proceeding.

Well, what about the sheriff? Why not send him back with us?

He has other duties.

This hearing is closed.

Wait a minute.

That warrant has been served. What's to stop Major Forrester from running out?

- What about bail? - Uh, quite correct.

Bail is set at $50.

Fifty dollars? On a charge of him stealing 8,000?

I trust I misunderstood the tone of that last remark, sir.

Is there a lawyer in this town? [ Laura ] There is.

An excellent one, John Harrison.

We suggest you consult him, by all means.

We bid you good morning, sir.

You'll take care of this?I, uh, may need some more answers, sir.

All right. I'll see you later at your office.

Uh, Major, there's, um, still the matter of that bail,

uh, just for the record.

Oh, yes. Of course. Uh, Leonard, see that he gets it.

Wouldn't it have been wiser to discuss the land deals with Leonard or with me?

I thought we had agreed--Laura, I'm the president of this company.

Sometimes you and Leonard tend to forget that.

Sometimes there are things that you forget, Ralph.

That your father left everything in your name?

Oh, no. You haven't let me forget that for one minute...

since the day we were married.

Where are you going?I have to go down into town.

We were going to ride out to the mine together this afternoon.

I won't be able to. I have some things I must tend to in town.

All at the saloon?

Now just what do you mean by that?

I'm an understanding woman, and a patient one,

but there is a limit for any woman, Ralph.

Oh, Laura.

Laura, you're imagining things. You've been alone too much.

Maybe that's what I mean.

How can any woman who's so beautiful be such a fool?

Oh, darling.

I tell you what. I'll try and get back from town early.

We'll forget the mine.

And we'll make that a moonlight ride.We will?

And, uh, all that warrant business-- don't give it another thought.

I'll take care of it.

[ Virginian ] You'll take the case? [ Man ] Bring the action here?

[ Man ] To try it here? [ Virginian ] That's right.

Here, look down that street. See?

Forrester Feed and Grain. Otis Saddlery.

Forrester General Store. Here.

The Honesty Mining and Land Company, Ralph Forrester, President.

Otis Arms Hotel.

Forrester Lumberyard.

Why, there's not half a dozen businesses in this town the major doesn't control...

and his wife doesn't own.

And all of them depend on the mine out north a ways,

founded by General Otis, Laura Forrester's father.

And it's been losing money, last two years.Why doesn't it close down?

Laura-- Well, Mrs. Forrester won't stand for it.

Her father left it in trust for her.

And unlike certain other people around here I could name but won't,

Laura believes the word "trust" has some significance.

What you're saying is the major runs the town, but his wife owns it and keeps it going.

Precisely. So you see, my friend,

although you could undoubtedly find 12 jurors in town who don't work for the Forresters,

the odds are they'd have relatives who did.

Now you still want the trial here?

But if that judge won't order him back to Medicine Bow--

He doesn't have to. No, he's right.

You're not properly authorized to take him back.

However,

if the sheriff of Medicine Bow or a full-time deputy were to come here--

Where's the telegraph office?

It's next to the hotel.

But if I may suggest, don't send your wire there.

You give it, uh-- give it to the stage driver.

Have him send it from Beaver Crossing.Thanks.

Oh, what do I owe you?Five dollars.

[ Coins Clinking ]

Tell me, what's a man like you, uh, doing here?

I mean, uh, staying here?

[ Chuckles ] Well, I saw the name of the town on a map. Came here on a hunch.

Now I'm just too stubborn to leave.[ Chuckles ]

Oh, and by the way, what about the saloon? The Forresters own that too?

It's called the Laura Belle. His wife's name's Laura. What do you think?

There. Now from the bar-- 175.Right.

From the tables-- 580 plus 130 in dust.Check.

Good.

Oh, I'll be right with you.

That fella that rode in this morning-- he find you, Major?He found me.

Get that to the bank, and the receipt and statement up to Leonard Walters, hmm?

Well, good week?

Oh, could have been better, or a lot worse.

I, uh-- I fired that, uh-- that new dealer you brought in.

Oh?That Leonard Rankin?

Mmm?He was dealing seconds.

Who caught him, a customer?I did.

What's more, he was doing it terribly.

Well, that could have been solved, with the right teacher.

And where could he find better?

Ralph, when I took this job, you and I had an understanding.

I know, I know.

It either runs my way, or somebody else runs it.

All right. Rankin's fired. Fine.

Look, Jen, it's too nice a day to work.

I've got my rig right outside. Why don't we go for a ride?Where?

I was thinking of Cheyenne.

I wish you'd forget Cheyenne.

Have you forgotten it, Jen?

Oh, Ralph, you know how I feel about what you did for me in Cheyenne.

Why, without your help in getting me off of that charge, I--

Well-- Well, I don't have to tell you, do I?Why did you come here?

Why'd you take this job?Because--

Because I needed the job.

Is that the only reason?Well, I--

I get paid well for something I do well, running this place.

A lot less than you deserve. A lot less than it would have to be.

Would that be in the weekly report to your wife and, uh, Mr. Walters?

Ah, Jennifer, please listen to me.

No, you listen to me.

I have no intention of living on the back street of any man's life.

It wouldn't have to be like that. Not if--

Not if we went away together.

How? Running in the night?

Afraid Laura would be sending after us? No, thanks, Ralph.

You know, you-you could have just about any woman you really want in your life.

How, I don't know, but-but you can.

But you can't have two, not with me as one of 'em.

[ Sighs ]

Jennifer, there's one thing you still don't understand.

There aren't two women in my life.

And as far as Laura sending after us,

you don't have to worry, believe me.

What are you saying?

I'm saying that there is a time and there are circumstances...

under which something can happen that couldn't happen before.

Just a little while longer, Jennifer.

Who are you lying to this time, Ralph?

To me or to yourself?

All right, well, you know, last week we ran out of this stuff.

Well, if you think that's all you'll need, Harley, that's it.

Give him one on the house. But not his own stuff-- he hates it.

[ All Laughing ]

Good afternoon.Good afternoon.

Can a customer buy the manager a drink?

Well, the manager never likes to lose business. Um, Harley?

What'll it be?Monongahela.

Two.

Oh, thanks.

Well,

let's see.

- Could it have been Wichita? - No. Oh.

Santa Fe, maybe?No.

Why don't you admit you've got the wrong girl... or the wrong line?

It's not very new, you know?

You, uh, staying in town long?Just a couple of days.

Does the, uh, manager work late at the Laura Belle?

Usually around 11:00.

Well, it occurred to me that outside this place my memory might be better.

Besides, the manager might like somebody to walk her home.

Just for safety's sake.

Oh. Well, that's a very thoughtful idea,

but she usually, uh, manages it alone.

And she will tonight.

Surprised to see you still in town.

Thought by now you'd be riding.

The business I came here for isn't exactly finished, Major.

Now if you'll excuse me, I was talking to Miss McLeod.

Don't you turn your back on me, friend.

I'll say this once. Get out of town.

I intend to, when you go with me,

or I get the $8,000 you stole from Judge Garth.

[ Jennifer ] Ahh.

Harley, clean this up.

You heard what I said.

Not very smart, mister.

A man could get shot in this town for less than that.

Not while I'm facing him.

[ Glass Clinking ]

Now, where were we?

Well, you were suggesting that I might need company walking home tonight.

That was, uh, pretty careless of you knocking that bottle off like that.

Well, accidents happen.Why'd you do it?

Let's just say I might not like violence in a place I run.

Could be a reason.

You said 11:00?

I also said I walk alone.

All right. 11:00.

[ Laughing ]

Still don't get it.What?

This afternoon, I, uh, asked if I could walk you home, you said "no."

Five minutes later you changed your mind. How come?

You don't remember a certain incident in between involving you and Major Forrester?

Frankly, I wanted to see you tonight because I wanted to warn you.

Look, whatever your argument is with Ralph-- with the major--

don't try to settle it here, and certainly not alone.

Why does it matter to you?My reasons are my own.

Anyway, didn't you know that's a woman's privilege?

Well, this is my house. Good night.

Wasn't a very long walk.[ Chuckles ]

Well, I told you I usually take the long walk home alone.

Sorry I can't ask you in for a drink, but the bar back there's still open.

Wait a minute.

Was it Kansas City?

No. I-I--

Jennifer. Jenny!

You're Clara Baines's kid sister.

Of course. Now I remember.

It was when I was working the yards with Carl Baines.

It was the "Jennifer" that threw me.

You knew all along, didn't you?

Maybe I did.

Why didn't you say something about it?

Some things you've forgotten are better left forgotten. Anyway that was a long time ago.

Eight years anyway.

You were the prettiest girl in town.

Might say in the whole territory.

Tell me, how is your sister?

I don't know. I haven't heard from her for a long time.

Listen, the reason I saw you tonight was because you're a friend of Carl and Clara's.

Now I'm telling you again.

Whatever it was you came here for, don't try to settle it here.

Now go on back home, and go now.

Good night.

[ Door Opens, Closes ]

[ Gunshots ]

All right, hold it right there!

Sheriff.Oh, so it's you.

- Somebody just took a shot at me. - Who?

- You wouldn't know, would ya? - Well, now, how should I know?

I can't imagine. But, Sheriff, give him a message for me, will you?

Give who a message? What are you talking about?

Your good friend, the major. If he didn't do this, he knows who did.

You tell him the next time it happens, it'll be him I'm looking for.

I, uh, brought the monthly report if you want to check it.

The total's not down again.

An overall company loss of about $3,000 on the month.

Not including the 8,000 on the Garth cattle deal.

That can't be lost.

Leonard, I know Ralph can make wrong decisions about these things,

but if he was cheated, we have to sue whoever's responsible.

Whatever you say, Laura.

8,000. 12,000 on that payroll robbery in March.

There's still no lead on that?

Not a trace. Whoever pulled that robbery,

it's as though they disappeared off the face of the earth and the money with them.

Leonard, thank you for this. I'm sorry to plague you with my worries.

I've never complained about sharing your worries, Laura.

You know how grateful I am. Ralph and I don't deserve you.

I'll be at the office if you need me.

[ Door Opens, Closes ]

20,000.

- May I help you, Laura? - Oh.

Yes, Ralph. I-- I was looking for the derringer. I-I thought it might be in here.

I haven't seen it.

I-- I heard about the shooting last night, and coming so soon after the robbery,

I was-- I was a little nervous.I see.

You heard? The man who was here, he was shot at.

I understand he says he was shot at.

Well, who would do such a thing, Ralph? And why?

Let that be my concern, Laura. Not yours.

Now, would you mind putting my things away?

[ Door Closes ]

You sure that telegram couldn't have come when you were off duty?

I'm positive, mister.Mm-hmm.

Well, if it does come, I'll be at the hotel.

[ Knocking ]Come in.

Good morning.

[ Sighs ] Good morning, Mrs. Forrester.

What can I do for you?

I'm sure you're busy and I'm sorry to trouble you,

but we've lost some papers we need.

I thought Mr. Walters had them in the office safe, but they don't seem to be there.

Some-- Some company records involving the mine.

We thought they might possibly have been left in this safe.

My specific instructions are to open that safe for no one but, uh,

Major Forrester and Mr. Walters.

But in this case, I'm sure I can make an exception.

No, they don't seem to be there. We'll have to look further at the office.

I'm sorry, Mrs. Forrester.

Oh, Miss McLeod? Yes?

I've been wanting to tell you what a fine job you've done with the Laura Belle.

Ralph and I both appreciate it.Oh, thank you.

It isn't easy to find this degree of efficiency and loyalty...

these days.It isn't?

There was a time when a certain element of cheating was involved in the operations here.

There is no cheating involved now, Mrs. Forrester.

You may be sure of that.

Miss McLeod-- Please.

Call me Jennifer.

And Laura.

Laura.

Jennifer,

it's occurred to me that for a woman of your great skill in management--

a place like this in a small town such as Honesty is--

Well, it's really wasted.

You think so?I do.

Now supposing, just supposing,

someone were to have enough confidence in you...

to back you financially in a much larger town.Such as?

Suppose we say Cheyenne?

Why Cheyenne?

Just as an example.

I'd be most happy to consider such a venture, Miss McLeod.

It was, uh, Jennifer, remember?

Mm-hmm. Of course. Jennifer.

You'll think about it?

Yes. Yes, I'll think about it.

Do.

Oh, incidentally, it isn't necessary to mention this visit to the major.

There's no need to trouble him.

Major? Major Forrester!Yeah?

Uh, the wire that fella from Medicine Bow has been waiting for?

Yeah? It came about an hour ago.

It's from a deputy named Ryker. Says he'll be here tomorrow.Have you delivered it?

- No, sir. He asked me about it, but, uh-- - Don't.

See, all of a sudden he wants to settle. Why? I don't get it.

You don't have to. You just take your money and go, and consider yourself lucky.

Where's the major?In the office.

[ Major ] Come in.

Oh.

Mr. Harrison said you wanted to see me.Yes. So good of you.

Those deeds that are in dispute-- do you have them?

I have.With you?

Yes.Leonard, that bill of sale, if you please.

It says "payment in full, $8,000."

Precisely.

$8,000.

So it is.Now, if I may have the deeds, please?

Just got one question, Major. What made you change your mind?

I don't like disagreements.

Actually, my lawyer informs me that if Judge Garth accepted those deeds,

and they were offered in good faith, the problem is his.

Caveat emptor I believe the legal phrase is.

"Let the buyer beware."

However, my company doesn't choose to do business that way.

Right, Leonard?Precisely right.

Now, if you'll just sign this bill of sale, sir.

Since the bad judgment regarding those deeds was mine,

I believe I have to pay.

Agreed?Agreed.

Well, gentlemen, I believe this calls for a drink. Shall we?

Uh, Jennifer.

We'll join you directly, gentlemen.

What was all that, Ralph?

A simple business dispute simply solved.

Were those deeds forged?

Those deeds are something you and I don't have to worry about anymore.

We'll let Laura and her beloved Leonard worry about them together.

- What are you talking about? - Remember, I said it wouldn't be long. It'll be now.

We're leaving. Be ready just after midnight.

With a fond farewell to Honesty, we're leaving.But how?

And why now? Does this have anything to do with him?

Oh, Ralph. I know you too well.

Does what you're planning involve any harm to that man?

What I'm planning involves the only two people who count.

[ Chattering ]

[ Jennifer ] Oh, I'll be no party to this.

[ Major ] You'll be no party to what?

Jennifer McLeod suddenly defending all that's proper and righteous. Ha!

Oh, stop it, Ralph.Well,

of course, if we were still in Cheyenne and there were a little question of murder involved--

It wasn't murder.Wasn't it, Jennifer? Wasn't it?

Well, you know it wasn't.But who else knows it wasn't?

And what if I should decide sometime to...

admit that that alibi I concocted for you was a lie?

[ Chuckles ]

Oh, but we both know I'm never gonna make a decision like that, don't we?

You see how it is between us, Jennifer?

We've got to get along with each other. Just the two of us.

You have no alternatives.

Are you so sure?

I'm quite sure.

You be ready just after midnight.

You want your horse now?

Yeah. Right now.

Well, it'll take me a while.

[ Horse Blusters ]

[ Horse Nickers ]

[ Nickers ]

[ Horse Whinnies ]

Whoa. Durn fool.

Waking a man up in the middle of the night.

[ Grunts ] All right, he's all set, mister.

Come on.

Hey, mister?

[ Virginian Groaning ]

Hey, mister.

Hey, mister?

[ Groans ]

Help! Somebody help! Quick!

You're lucky, mister. If that had been a little farther back--

[ Sighs ]We get down to my office, I'll put a bandage on it.

That can wait.

You goin' for the sheriff? I tried to reach him before.

Hyah!

At this hour, Ralph? Why?

Nothing can be that urgent.

Ralph, I asked you why.

Because I choose to. And I don't have to ask your leave.

You understand that, finally?

If there's trouble, surely I--If there's trouble, I'll take care of it.

Or don't you believe that's possible?

Please, Ralph. You can't just-- [ Galloping Hooves ]

[ Horse Whinnies ]

[ Knocking ]

[ Knocking ]

[ Knocking ]

Well, what do you want?

Naturally, you wouldn't know. I want $8,000, Major.

- Well, I just gave you $8,000 not an hour ago. - So you did.

- And I have a bill of sale with your signature on it. - That you have.

Well, then, I'll thank you not to trouble us any further, sir.

If I have to call the law--I underestimated you, Forrester.

The beginning, I thought you were nothing but a cheap, conniving crook.

I know better now.

There's nothing cheap about you.

Sir, if it weren't for the presence of this lady here--

You'd what? Run?

Or hit me from behind again, like you did just now down at the stable?

Why-- This is preposterous.

I can account for my presence every moment...

since I gave you that $8,000.

Right up till the time that Walters here and I came home.

I was either in the saloon, or in the saloon office,

discussing business with Miss McLeod.

Well, if you don't believe me, ask her.

I'll do just that, because let me tell you one thing,

I intend getting that money back tonight.

The sheriff handles law violations in this community, sir.

Well, this is one I'm gonna handle myself, and you can count on that.

Well.

[ Galloping Hooves ]

You knew. That's why you were leaving.

Well, y-yes.

I gave him the $8,000.

Apparently someone heard about it and waylaid him.

Someone?Well, yes.

Naturally, he thought it was I.

Well, it's only sensible for me to leave town for a few days...

until this calms down.

You say you paid him. With what?

- Leonard, did you-- - I, uh--

I borrowed that money.

From whom?

Well--

Laura.

I was wrong about those deeds.

But don't you worry about it. I'll fix it.

That's why I ought to go over to Laramie.

Oh, just have faith in me for a little while.

I'll be gone, at the most, for a week.

And, of course, you're going alone.

Now what does that mean?

How much of a fool do you think I am, Ralph?

Just one thing.

What?

Leave that with me.

It's the one way you can be safe.

I'll get my bag.

It's better this way, Laura. Believe me.

Better? He's going with her, isn't he?

He has that money, and now he's going away with Jennifer McLeod.

I'm sure you know.

[ Door Opens, Closes ]

[ Chattering ]

I understand you had some trouble.Oh, you heard about it, huh?

Sorry I wasn't around to help. Any idea who it was?

Suppose I asked you that question?Now, wait a minute, friend.

Don't worry about it, Sheriff. I'll handle it my way.

Table's reserved.I gotta talk to you.

Not here, not now.

- Your place, then, in five minutes. - No.

Where is she?

If she's not in the office, she might've went out the back way.

Maybe she went to her place.

[ Gunshot ]

[ Gunshot ]

Ralph. Oh, no.

Oh, no.

All right, what happened here?

The major.

He's dead.

I'll just take that gun, friend.

He shot at me, Sheriff, from up here. I returned his fire.

Sure. Sure you did.

Well, look, it was self-defense.

With an unarmed man?

You're under arrest, friend, for murder.

[ Ryker ] Good morning.

I'm looking for a friend of mine.

Came in a couple of days ago from Medicine Bow.

Check with the sheriff. Down the street.

[ Clopping Hooves ]

Hold it, mister. You Deputy Ryker?

Yeah, that's right. I'm looking for--I know why you're here.

First off, you better come with me.

Sorry, mister, but first off I've got to find a friend of mine.

Well, that won't be hard. He's in jail.

In jail?

For murder.

They're holding the trial tomorrow?

That's what Mr. Harrison here tells me.

With a jury drawn from people that have just come from Forrester's funeral, huh?

It seems that Laura Forrester insisted.

That gives us approximately 24 hours to produce evidence...

that will clear your friend here.

Oh, that's great. Uh, so where do we start?

You say there was no sign of either that money or a gun on Forrester...

when they searched the body?

- None whatever. - Well, I only fired at him after he shot at me.

He had to have a gun.

- You said this Forrester wasn't wearing a gun belt? - No.

You figure then that he must have had another gun of some kind?

Somebody got rid of it right after the shooting.Hmm.

- You searched the area, right? - Oh, completely.

That night and again the next morning. I was there myself.

[ Sighs ] This Forrester lived here in town?

Just outside. [ Door Opens ]

What's on your mind?Maybe an angle.

[ Killigrew ] All right, friend, time's up. Let's go.

All right, Sheriff. I'll be right there.

You take it easy. And take your hat off the bed.

A thing like that could bring a fella bad luck.

[ Door Opens, Closes ]

I very much appreciate you seeing me, Mrs. Forrester, especially at this time.

Please say what you came for and go.

Well, even in your grief, I'm sure you don't want to see an innocent man convicted.

My friend says your husband shot at him,

and he only fired in self-defense.

My husband's gun was here on this table, Mr. Ryker.

He left it with me before he went out of the house.

Well, did he maybe own another gun?

There were only two hand weapons in our home.

The one I spoke of and-- Come with me.

Well, Mr. Ryker?

A little unusual to keep a gun hidden away like that.

It was a gift to my husband from the men of his battalion.

He valued it highly.

Well, I'm sorry to have troubled you, ma'am.

Thank you. I'll find my way out.

See you a minute?Sure.

You, uh, live around here?

Yeah.Huh.

Lawman, eh? Come to help Killigrew line up his evidence?

You might put it that way. No need.

He's got enough now to hang that fella.

Tell me. You were here when it happened? The shootin'?

Well, right after. Same as Miss Jennifer, Killigrew and all the rest.

- When we heard the shots, we all came runnin' out. - All from the saloon?

Uh, well, now, Miss Jennifer-- I guess she came from her place.

Right.

Just exactly where was Forrester's body? Can you show me?

Yeah. Right, uh-- Right there.Here?

You stand there a minute, will you? You be Forrester.

Well, thanks a lot, mister.

All right. Wait there.

You said you heard shots. How many?

Gosh, I don't know. Three, four, maybe.

I hear the major had two slugs in him.

What is it?

Bullet holes.

Now remember exactly where we first saw these holes.

Remember? What for?

- For the trial. - For the trial?

Right. Thanks for the help.

Always glad to help the law.

What's the matter with you, mister? Can't you read?

The place is closed.

I know, but I want to see Miss McLeod.

Well, you can't.

Let him in, Harley.

Miss McLeod, I'm, uh--

I know who you are.

Well, then I guess you know too why I'm here.

One question my friend's going to have to answer in court...

is how he happened to be out there when Major Forrester was shot.

He says he was coming to your place to see you.

And that you knew he was coming.

Will you testify to that at the trial?

I'll testify to what was true.

All right. Then I'll see to it you get a subpoena as a witness for the defense.

Thank you.That won't be necessary.

I've already been subpoenaed to appear...

for the prosecution.

I had to see you.

There's something I must explain.

Ryker tells me you're testifying for the prosecution.

I have no choice.

- The prosecutor called me in for questioning. - About what?

About that argument you and the major had in the saloon.

I can't lie about that. There were other witnesses.

No one's asking you to lie about anything.

It's just--

It's just that I want you to know that when I do testify it may sound damaging.

To you, I mean.

You must know it was self-defense.

You were right inside your door.

You must have heard four shots.

I only fired two. The other two had to be him shooting at me.

Yeah. Yeah, I could say that.

Saythat? It's the truth.

But I'm not sure. I didn't see any gun on him.

But I do want to help you if I can.

- Why? - Say for old time's sake.

Let's say the girl named Jenny would have done that.

And we will prove, ladies and gentlemen,

beyond all possible doubt...

that this defendant, who came to Honesty in the first place...

with a ridiculous charge against its leading citizen,

did on several occasions threaten Major Ralph Forrester,

did falsely accuse Major Ralph Forrester,

and finally did, on the night of April 7 last,

shoot the unarmed Major Ralph Forrester to his death.

And it is with full confidence...

that I represent this defendant before you, ladies and gentlemen.

Proud, incidentally, that I can address you as ladies and gentlemen.

Proud that this territory was the first area of our nation wise enough...

to recognize the right of intelligent, open-minded women...

to join with intelligent, open-minded men...

in the dispensing of justice.

For it is justice that we seek here, and only justice.

And I'm sure that my client is going to receive it at your hands.

Mr. Denning, call your first witness.

Sheriff Mark Killigrew.

And I come down the street, and he was standing there with his gun drawn.

He claims somebody took a shot at him.

Oh, he's a great one for claiming things, this fella.

And that was two nights before the murder? Objection.

No murder's been proved, Your Honor.

That's what this trial's about.

Sustained. Go on, Mr. Denning.

What did the defendant say at that time concerning the major?

Well, he said, uh, "Tell your friend the major to watch out.

The next time I see him, I'll gun him down."

- Your witness. - That's not what I said, and he knows it.

Now, Sheriff, what you said, were those his exact words?

Oh, maybe not. But that's what he meant.

Well, then why didn't you lock him up, Sheriff?

Look, I don't need you to tell me my job.

No more questions.

Mrs. Ralph Forrester.

Mrs. Forrester, I regret the necessity of calling you under the circumstances,

especially on this day.

But I'm sure you'll--I understand, Mr. Denning.

Your concern is not necessary.

You see, I too am determined to see justice done here.

Will you swear the witness?

My husband suggested he go to Sheriff Killigrew,

and he said, "This is one violation I'll take care of myself."

Those were his exact words, Mr. Denning,

as he stood in my doorway less than a half hour before Ralph was killed.

Would you say there was violence in his manner...

when he made that threat, Mrs. Forrester?

Violence is the wrong word, Mr. Denning. The word is murder.

[ Murmuring ] [ Gavel Raps ]

You can't let that pass.Leave her alone.

Your witness.

Mrs. Forrester, the defense too appreciates the strain and the suffering...

that this occasion has caused you,

and regrets them.

No questions.

The prosecution rests, Your Honor.

[ Murmuring ]

He's not calling Jennifer.

There's an old rule in this business.

Quit when you're ahead.

The defense first calls Jebb Finney.

And you were with Deputy Ryker...

when he discovered these bullet holes...

in the wall of the building across the alley?

That's the site of the shooting.

Look, I thought that fellow was working with Killigrew.

I wouldn't-- Just answer the question.

Yeah.

And you were also there when this section of the wall was cut out.

That-- That piece right there. Defense Exhibit "B."

But that don't mean a thing.

So maybe he missed the major a couple of times.

He sure didn't miss him with the slugs that killed him.

[ Murmuring ]

Yes, I did remove bullets from the body-- two of them.

Do you have those bullets with you now?

Now, I offer these as Defense Exhibit "C."

[ Ryker ] I'd say I've known him two, nearly three years.

You'd say that you and the defendant then were good friends, good friends.

We are.

You could then identify this gun as his personal property.

[ Women Scream ] [ Gavel Raps ]

[ Judge ] Mr. Harrison, what's the meaning of this?

I'm-- I'm sorry, Your Honor.

I regret the witness's carelessness, as I'm sure he does.

But since the accident has occurred, Your Honor,

I'd like to have that bullet removed from that exhibit,

along with one of those originally found there.

Perhaps Sheriff Killigrew could assist me?

Thank you, Sheriff.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, please notice.

Here's the slug that was originally in that wall.

And the one just fired accidentally by Deputy Ryker.

Now, compare this slug...

taken from the body by Doctor Crane.

[ Murmuring ]

[ Gavel Raps ]

This court is adjourned for 30 minutes.

[ Murmuring ]

Why the adjournment all of a sudden?

Were you watching Denning? That threw his case wide open and he knew it.

Can't you move now for a dismissal?Oh, you don't know Denning.

Give him time. He'll find an answer.

Like maybe you had another gun.

Um,

Mr. Harrison, could I see you for a moment alone?

What is it?

I would have said something before this,

but it was so evident your client was guilty.

But, uh, now there must be another answer.

Now, you see, last night in the saloon,

I overheard something I think you should hear.

What do you suppose this is? You talk to Walters before?

He was positive you were guilty. That's all he'd say.

And you'll testify to that argument between them?

Of course I will.

Thank you, Walters.

What's up?What'd he say?

It's about an argument. Forrester and Jennifer.

He was threatening to blackmail her.

Jennifer?

Who was the first person to get to Forrester after he was shot?

Besides you, I mean.Um, she was.

The money's gone, the gun's gone.

Jennifer with a room in direct line of sight.

Where you going?Fishing.

Fishing?With a search warrant, if I can find that judge.

[ Sighs ] I hate to see Jennifer get any further involved in this.

- Even if she's guilty? - She can't be. I'm sure of it.

Sheriff.

[ Walters ] Well, it was about a crime she had committed in Cheyenne.

And Major Forrester said that he'd expose her if she didn't go with him.

Well, she became furious,

and he said, "Well, after all, you have no alternative, Jennifer."

And she said, "Are you so certain I don't?" And then he went out.

Thank you, Mr. Walters.

Then you admit, Miss McLeod,

that the argument to which Mr. Walters testified did take place?

Yes.

Took place just a few hours before Major Forrester was killed.

Yes. But what you're implying is not true.

Oh, then you mean that the argument did not involve a threat by Major Forrester...

to reveal the truth about a criminal charge against you in Cheyenne?

You're putting the wrong face on all of it.

Yes. Yes, I was in trouble in Cheyenne.

Accused of murder. Of manslaughter,

but I was innocent, I swear I was.

But I couldn't prove it.

And Major Forrester provided the proof?

Yes. Yes.

Only this time, it wasn't manslaughter, was it?

It was a premeditated act to get rid of a man...

who threatened to expose you.No, that's not true.

Or was it the money?

Who was the first person to reach Major Forrester after he was killed?

He was.

And he was immediately taken into custody and searched.

Who was the next person?Huh?

Was it you, Miss McLeod?

I-- I don't remember.

You don't remember kneeling beside the body...

and crying out, "No, Ralph, no."

No, that's not true. I don't remember.

And you did not during the confusion at that time...

take from the major's pocket the money that was there?

I did not.

Do you recognize this suitcase, Miss McLeod?

[ Sighs ] I-- I-- I don't know.

Your Honor, I offer this in evidence as Defense Exhibit "D."

Sheriff Killigrew will testify to the fact...

that it was obtained during a search of the witness's room...

by himself and Mr. Ryker while the court was in recess.

It is admitted.

$20,000, Miss McLeod.

[ Murmuring ]

Do you now wish to revise your testimony?

All right.

All right, I did take it from him.

I took it from his pocket.

He said he was coming back...

with enough money so we could leave together.

But I wasn't gonna go with him.

Oh, you weren't going to go.

Yet when you saw him dead, you took the money.

It wasn't for myself.

I-I did it--

I did it to protect someone else.

Someone else?

Who, Miss McLeod?

Laura Forrester.

[ Murmuring ]

You were protecting Laura Forrester by stealing $20,000?

What with him dead, what value was there in her knowing what he'd done?

I-I intended to eventually return the money.

Is that the truth, Miss McLeod?Yes, yes.

Or is it the real truth that knowing he was coming,

coming to you with the money,

knowing that the defendant could logically be blamed,

you killed Ralph Forrester--No!

with this gun?

No.

No.

Your Honor, I request a recess...

while the bullets from this gun are compared...

with those found in the body of the deceased.

Court will recess for one hour.

[ Gavel Raps ]

[ Gunshot ]

Now may I have the murder slug, Mr. Denning?

Nice try, counselor.

I'll trouble you for that, Deputy.

[ Door Closes ]How much time have we?

Fifteen, 20 minutes, no more.

You stall till I get there.

Your Honor, I protest this delay.

Since both defendant and counsel are in court,

I see no reason not to proceed.

Nor do I. Mr. Harrison.

Just a moment or two more, Your Honor.

Where'd he go?He didn't say.

Here he comes.

[ No Audible Dialogue ]

We are ready, Your Honor. I'll ask Deputy Ryker to again take the stand.

Now, ladies and gentlemen of the jury,

you recall that when we recessed...

we were concerned with comparative weights of bullets.

Now, I'd like to continue on that course.

Your Honor,

I'd like to have the doctor's exhibit here.

And I'd like to compare it with a bullet taken from another gun,

if the deputy will oblige?

[ Murmuring ]

Your Honor, I protest. That's not a slug from Miss McLeod's gun.

We tested--We, uh-- We admit that, Mr. Denning.

You're right.

Mr. Ryker, will you tell the court where you obtained this bullet?

From a gun I fired not five minutes ago.

The gunsmith can attest to that.

Where did you find the gun?

From the residence of a witness in this courtroom.

Do you have that gun on you now?

I have.

I'll ask Laura Forrester to retake the stand.

You recognize this gun, Mrs. Forrester?

It was my husband's.

Who knew, Mrs. Forrester,

the special hiding place where this gun was kept?

So far as I know, only Ralph and myself.

Oh, and that young deputy I showed it to yesterday.Mmm.

Were you aware, Mrs. Forrester,

that your husband was involved with Jennifer McLeod?

I won't answer that question.

Did you know that he had stolen $20,000...

and was planning to run away with her?

Nor that one, Mr. Harrison.

Jealousy-- that's a fearful curse to endure, isn't it, Mrs. Forrester?

And rejection by the man she loves...

can drive any woman to any ends,

especially when that woman has lived with a dream.Stop it.

A woman who's created a shining image that would've been shattered...

when her husband went away with another woman,

both of them running like thieves in the night.

You followed him that night, Mrs. Forrester,

followed him to that alley outside of Jennifer McLeod's room,

where, with this gun, you shot Ralph Forrester...

to his death.No.

Leave her alone. Leave her alone. [ Gavel Raps ]

[ Gavel Rapping ]

She's had enough.

[ Gavel Raps ]

For 20 years she's endured that vain, stupid man,

who lied to her, cheated,

made a mockery of her love for him.

There's no further need for this trial to go on.

I knew about that gun.

I killed Ralph Forrester because I hated him.

I hated him as much as I loved his wife.

You'll find it all there-- 8,000.

And we're lucky. Laura Forrester released it without question.

How is she?Laura? Don't worry about her.

A woman like that goes on. She's all right.

So will this town be now.

Well, thanks again, Mr. Harrison.

You thank your friend here. He came up with that derringer.

You take care of this fellow, will you? Keep him out of trouble.

I intend to.Good luck.

- Jenny. - Oh, I'm afraid I still don't remember her.

I'd heard that you may be leaving here yourself.

Seems best.

Thought you might be heading out Medicine Bow way.

Oh, well, I have a few things to clear up first,

and then-- who knows?

Good-bye.

Good-bye.

[ Man Announcing ] Produced in color in association with the NBC television network.