Episode Details

Originally Aired: August 21, 1960

Gunsmoke #437, "Dangerous Bath," Marshal Matt Dillon and Chester face an embarrassing predicament when two outlaws catch them bathing in a creek during a long ride across the prairie. The thieves, Ollie and young Harve, steal their horses, guns, and boots, leaving the lawmen stranded and defenseless. After a painful day and night of walking barefoot across the harsh terrain, Matt and Chester finally make it back to Dodge City with Doc Adams' help, their feet badly battered and their pride wounded. Doc declares they won't be able to wear boots for at least a week, leaving Matt frustrated and determined to find the men responsible.

When Matt spots a nervous young man at the Long Branch Saloon wearing boots that are suspiciously too large for him, he confronts Harve and quickly extracts a confession. The young outlaw reveals he's been wrestling with his conscience and was actually considering turning himself in. Now Matt must uncover the full story behind the theft and track down Harve's partner Ollie, while dealing with the indignity of being outwitted during what should have been a simple, refreshing bath.