User Reviews

The great CBS western anthology series, Rawhide has never produced a better excursion into the dynamics of the people on a cattle drive. By season seven the producers were comfortable in their command of the medium to not expand but delve deeply into their main characters and treasured guest stars. This was written and cast as a tour-de-force for Mr. Albert Dekker, noted stage actor, screen legend and former California assemblyman. Although only 60 at the time Dekker delivers a convincing performance of a 71 year old cowpoke whose best days are hundreds of miles in the past. This a Hollywood veteran who is at the top of his game and perhaps a poignant reflection of real life. How could anyone know that in two years Dekker would lose his son (aged 16) and in a year more his life? The regular roles of Gil Favor and Mushy are fleshed out and play effectively off grizzled, aged Josh with no cheap cliches or gunfights. Just perfect character development and a tin-type glimpse into the dynamics of the life of drovers. Jay C. Flippen, Paul Doucette and John Rickard in shining cameos! An excellent episode!

This Rawhide story concerns an aged Albert Dekker who Eric Fleming chewed out in a moment of temper. But Dekker took it personal and is just eaten up with anger and bitterness.

This is one of the best Rawhide stories ever done for the series. It's a grim portrayal of old age in the 19th century. No Social Security, no pension plan for drovers either. Dekker is also illiterate which doesn't mean much herding cattle, but it does bar you from work a lot less physical. He finds that out when a job working for cattle buyer John Doucette doesn't pan out.

Dekker is brilliant in the part. Note should be paid also to Ann Shoemaker who runs a boarding house and to Jay C. Flippen who boards with her. Flippen is an old buddy of Dekker who also is facing everything Dekker is dealing with an senility to boot.

This is one special Rawhide story.