This is one of the most powerful episodes in the series, touching on several themes. Paladin attempts to join a bounty hunt for a man accused, among other things, of murder -- Paladin's personal preference (as usual) being to "bring the game in alive". But his services are declined. There are plenty of men already hot on the subject's trail and at least one will stop at nothing to claim the $5000 reward.
And the "subject" himself is no easy quarry, aware that being brought back to face trial for his part in a fatal lumber camp brawl with have no happier outcome than the one that almost certainly awaits him at the hands of the man-hunters. He is, after all, a freed Slave. Despite assurances (and respectful treatment) from his captor, Paladin, he's determined to keep living as a fugitive for as long as he can.
Tables turn, and suddenly it's Paladin who is in desperate need of help . His prisoner, now free, has no intention of hanging around to provide it. Paladin of course lives to fight another day -- but his relief at that fact is once again mixed with bitter regret.
And the "subject" himself is no easy quarry, aware that being brought back to face trial for his part in a fatal lumber camp brawl with have no happier outcome than the one that almost certainly awaits him at the hands of the man-hunters. He is, after all, a freed Slave. Despite assurances (and respectful treatment) from his captor, Paladin, he's determined to keep living as a fugitive for as long as he can.
Tables turn, and suddenly it's Paladin who is in desperate need of help . His prisoner, now free, has no intention of hanging around to provide it. Paladin of course lives to fight another day -- but his relief at that fact is once again mixed with bitter regret.
