The beginning of the episode begins as an old squatter has killed a calf belonging to one of the large land baron, Amos Gentry, in Kansas. The Gentry boys, Colt and Ben, ride up on the squatter named Floyd Babcock and think they will teach Babcock a lesson. They put a rope around his neck put him on a horse with the threat of hanging him. Their intention was just to frighten Babcock and then release him with the assurance of him leaving the area. However during the threat the horse gets spooked and speeds off. Babcock is hanging and dies before the boys can cut him down. They lightly bury the body and hope this remains a terrible secret. But it is not to be.
The squatter has a friend that goes looking for him. He finds the burial area with his friend still tied to the rope. He sends word to Marshal Dillon in hopes of finding the killer(s).
Matt is old friends with Amos Gentry and goes visit the large ranch. Since the killing happened on Gentry land Matt believes that they may know something about the matter. Soon Matt even knows that he is running into road blocks set up by the Gentry family. And it appears that Amos Gentry will do anything to protect his boys. Possibly killing an old friend.
What really makes this episode stand out above others is the way the actors played their characters. Peter Jason and Robert Pine were both ideally cast and brought the characters to life. Even Louise Latham, that at times I find hard to take, did a nice job as the wife and mother of the Gentry clan. Plus this episode even had one of the movie star from the 40's and 50's that at one time was one of the most popular male actors in film. The incredible John Payne took on a guest appearance, which he rarely did, and produced a fine episode for all to see. A great watch for viewers