Ep 16. El Toro Grande

Ben, Adam, Hoss, and Little Joe are tasked with herding cattle to Virginia City. However, things take a turn for the worse when they stumble upon a town that is being terrorized by a massive bull named El Toro Grande. The bull has already killed one man and has injured several others, causing the townsfolk to fear for their lives.

The Cartwrights offer their assistance in capturing the bull, but the locals are hesitant to trust outsiders. Despite their reservations, Ben and his sons devise a plan to capture El Toro Grande. With some help from a local woman named Juanita, they are able to lure the bull into a trap.

However, things don't go as smoothly as planned when the town's corrupt sheriff, Sheriff Coffey, decides to take credit for the capture of the bull and demands payment from the Cartwrights. Ben refuses to pay and warns Coffey to stay away from them, but the sheriff is not one to be easily deterred.

Meanwhile, a group of bandits led by a man named Rio are planning to rob the bank in Virginia City. They decide to recruit Sheriff Coffey, promising him a share of the loot. Coffey eagerly accepts the offer, but things quickly spiral out of control when the Cartwrights get wind of the heist and try to stop it.

As the Cartwrights and the robbers engage in a shootout, El Toro Grande manages to escape from his cage and runs loose through the town. The wild bull causes chaos and destruction, but the Cartwrights are able to use their skills to take him down once and for all.

In the end, the Cartwrights are hailed as heroes and trusted by the townspeople. Sheriff Coffey is exposed as a traitor and is arrested, and Juanita, who has fallen in love with Hoss, decides to stay in the town. The Cartwrights leave with their heads held high, knowing that they have once again helped those in need.

Overall, El Toro Grande is a thrilling episode that showcases the courage and determination of the Cartwright family. With a blend of action, humor, and heart, this episode is a standout in the first season of Bonanza.