Have Gun, Will Travel Season 5 Episode 4 Odds for Big Red

Paladin is back again, riding his faithful horse along a dusty trail. In this episode of Have Gun, Will Travel season 5 entitled "Odds for Big Red," Paladin finds himself challenged to a high-stakes poker game against a wealthy rancher named Big Red.

The game is being held at a saloon in the town of Sonora, where Paladin is currently living. Paladin's friend, "Sidekick" Johnny, reasons with him that he will be able to earn enough money to buy himself a new living space in the city if he wins. But Paladin is hesitant at first, knowing full well that Big Red has a reputation for being a cunning and ruthless gambler. However, his pride gets the best of him and he accepts the offer.

Before the game begins, Big Red and Paladin engage in a heated conversation about what it takes to be a good gambler. Big Red boasts that he has never lost a game of poker in his life, while Paladin argues that skill and strategy are what make a great gambler, not just luck. It's clear from the start that this game will be more than just a simple game of cards.

The saloon is full of onlookers eager to see the two men battle it out. Despite being in a potentially life-changing situation, Paladin maintains his cool and shows no signs of nerves. The hands are dealt, and the game is underway.

Throughout the game, various characters enter and exit the saloon, adding to the tension and excitement around the poker game. Some characters are cheering on Big Red, while others side with Paladin. The stakes continue to rise with each hand that is played, and the tension between the two men grows thicker with each passing moment.

As the night wears on, Paladin senses that something is amiss. Big Red begins playing recklessly, disregarding strategy and commonly accepted rules of the game. Paladin quickly understands that Big Red has enlisted the help of a group of con artists, who are signaling him with their movements and gestures.

Paladin confronts Big Red, and they engage in a passionate yet civil exchange of words. Big Red eventually admits to cheating, but argues that it's all part of successful gambling. Paladin, who believes in upholding fair play at all costs, is dissatisfied with this response.

In a carefully thought-out plan, Paladin sets up a trap for Big Red, revealing his cheating tactics to everyone in the saloon. Big Red is forced to concede defeat, having lost both the game and his credibility as a gambler.

The episode ends with Paladin walking away from the saloon, having proven to both himself and Big Red that true gambling requires integrity and strategy. As always, he rides off into the sunset, ready for his next adventure.

Overall, "Odds for Big Red" is an engaging and entertaining episode that captures the essence of Have Gun, Will Travel's unique mix of action, drama, and suspense. With masterful performances from Richard Boone as Paladin and a dynamic cast of supporting characters, this episode is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.