The Old Man

Old Man McKeen is dying but his wealth makes him a target from his kinfolk.

Some of whom are wishing he dies quickly and leave his wealth to them in his will.

Troy and Murdo are two people who drag Dave Blassingame in this strictly family affair.

The men steal Dave's horse and just leave him with his dog. Now he wants it back. When he arrives at Old Man McKeen's house, Dave realises that only his grandson truly cares for him.

A simmering episode about greed and a fast track inheritance. It all leads to a big shootout with Troy, Murdo and their hired guns.

Distinguished actor Sam Jaffe plays the dying old man who is up for one last shootout.

Dave has to hoof it after his horse is stolen, and wanders into family fight. Slightly superior entry thanks to a number of fine touches, including Dave's polite turn-around when threatened with a cocked gun. Fist-fight is showy , but overdone-- how is it guys can escape broken jaw after taking so many full swings flush to the face. For a series that strives for some realism, brawls like this only detract. Episode is also marred by Sam Jaffe's old man, who treats the part like he's declaiming Shakespeare from center stage. Still, the location shots of barren land around ranch house and shack outback lend authentic atmosphere, and furnish memorable backdrop for shootout. Entry demonstrates what fine performers Robert Wilke and Franklyn Ferguson were. And, of course, Bryan Keith whose consistent underplaying transforms Dave into a true diamond in the rough. Best line, "Beats eating' dirt"-- sarcastic comment from gun-toting horse thief as Dave meekly gives up his mount. As they say: Discretion is often the better part of valor.