Sweet and Sour

Originally Aired: March 12, 1961

In Gunsmoke #466, "Sweet and Sour," Matt Dillon and Chester are returning to Dodge from Wichita when they encounter a troubling situation at the train depot. A drifter named Ab Laster tries to force a young woman, Rena Decker, onto the train and insists she drink with him. Matt intervenes, disarming Laster and earning both the woman's gratitude and Laster's bitter promise of revenge. When they arrive in Dodge, Laster appears with his partner Joe Garrett, making it clear they'll be back to settle the score after a brief trip north.

Meanwhile, Rena's presence in Dodge creates unexpected tension. Matt tries to help her find work at the Long Branch, but Kitty refuses to hire her, warning that Rena is the kind of woman who causes trouble among men. Kitty's instincts prove correct when a fight erupts at the Long Branch, leaving two men dead. As Matt investigates the shooting, all signs point to Rena being at the center of the deadly confrontation, raising questions about whether this seemingly innocent young woman is as sweet as she appears.

Welcome to Gunsmoke: Old West Stories, a podcast that takes you back to the rugged plains of 1870s Dodge City, Kansas. Rediscover the timeless tales of bravery, justice, and survival in the American frontier with our re-broadcasts of the classic Gunsmoke radio program.

First airing on April 26, 1952, Gunsmoke was celebrated as the first adult western radio show, renowned for its superb storytelling and exceptional production quality. Join Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by the incomparable William Conrad, as he faces the challenges of maintaining law and order in a tumultuous town. Alongside him are unforgettable characters like Chester Proudfoot (Parley Baer), the steadfast deputy; Kitty (Georgia Ellis), the resilient saloon owner; and Doc Adams (Howard McNear), the town’s compassionate physician.

What sets Gunsmoke apart is not just its stellar cast and engaging plots but the immersive sound effects that bring each scene to life. Every gunshot, horse gallop, and whisper of the wind transports you directly to the heart of the Old West.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, Gunsmoke: Old West Stories promises to deliver gripping adventures and a nostalgic journey through one of radio’s most iconic series. Tune in and let the legends of Dodge City captivate your imagination.