Prison Trail

This was an excellent episode, one of the fastest-moving one I've seen in this excellent TV western series. It features an interesting story, "known" guest stars like Beverly Garland and Claude Aikens, and plenty of action.

As for the story, Josh and Jason are escorting prisoners in a stage coach to Leavenworth - three men and a woman. They have an interesting tale to tell, especially the woman, "Sally" (Garland). On their trail is man who wants to kill her and find out where some hidden money is located. Josh and Jason must tend to the prisoners while fighting off the intruder and two Pawnees he's enlisted to him. The "stranger" is played by Brad Dexter, a veteran of these TV westerns and a good actor, too.

Not only is the acting great and the story a good one, it's episodes like this in which you really appreciate the efforts of Studio Canal in restoring these old prints. That, and the great studio lighting (rarely did old shows go on location, even if it was supposed to be out in the "Old West," although there are a couple of quick scenes here that are outdoors.). I say the above because of all the shadows and light in this story, which reminds me visually of a good film noir.

Atlhough I really enjoy this Steve McQueen-led series, I don't usually rate the episodes a "10" but this one is deserving, all things considered.