Episode notes
U.S. Marshall Matt Dillon and his deputy Chester are in the office when a young boy walks in slowly. The boy says "Marshall ... Marshall Dillon". Matt says "Over here, son. What's the trouble?" Chester says "Why, that's Will Thompson's young'un, Mr. Dillon". Matt says "What is it, kid? What's wrong?" The boy says "Dad ... Mom ... They burned our house ... Cut the fences ... Four of them ... My sister ... ". Suddenly, the boy collapses on the floor. Matt says "He's been shot. Hold that lamp down here, Chester". Matt looks over the boy, and says "There's blood all over the back of his shirt. Will Thompson, he's a homesteader, isn't he?" Chester says "That's right. He came to Dodge City about three months ago. Took a section over by Mulberry Creek. Mr. Dillon, you want me to go get the doctor?" Matt pauses for a moment, and says "No, the boy doesn't need a doctor now". Soon, Matt and Chester ride out to the Thompson's place. Chester says "Burned the house is right, Mr. Dillon. It's still burning". Matt says "Yeah, what's left of it is. Watch yourself, Chester". He says "Yes, sir". Matt says "No sign of life, though. Whoever did it's probably long gone by now". Chester says "There's no reason to hang around". Matt says "Let's tie up here and look around on foot. Bring up your carbine, Chester". He says "I got it, Mr. Dillon". After a few seconds, Matt says "They even fired the corn crib. Now, why would anybody want to ... " Matt stops, and Chester says "What is it? What's there?" Matt says "A dog, shot". Chester says "A dog? When they even shoot the dog, it's a ...." Matt asks "See something?" Chester says "Yes, sir. it's Will Thompson. I think it's Will". Matt says "What do you mean, you think it's Will? Matt walks over, looks at the body, and says "Scalped".