In frontier justice, when formal legal systems fail to provide protection and justice, individuals may be compelled to take matters into their own hands, as demonstrated by Merl Reading's pursuit of justice against Henry Ballard despite the risks and moral complexities involved.
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>> Where's Billy?
>> He's inside.
>> Where is he?
>> I see he's in the kitchen.
>> Billy, >> sorry about the horses.
What happened?
>> Slater. Slater run me off.
>> Why?
>> As long as I was there, he couldn't work the blacks to death.
I told him they were young and and they'd never been in harness. He He tied them to a pigsty in a mud. Wouldn't take the harness off. After a week, they were filthy. And one day, I came out, he had them hooked up to a log pool.
>> Come on now.
>> [screaming] >> Then that old Slater and Ollie, they beat me.
>> Then they set them dogs on me.
[screaming] [groaning] [screaming] >> They might have killed me if I went back there.
>> You did right, Le.
>> Why don't you let Billy eat? how to kill him. Boy, >> what?
>> Why don't you let Billy hate?
>> Yeah.
>> Rest easy.
Damn it.
What are you going to do?
>> Get my horses back the way I left them.
And damages for Billy.
>> Ballard ain't going to do that cuz you tell him to and pay Billy to boot. He'd be the laughing stalk of Rollins. You're setting yourself up for a fall. Girl, >> Ballard ain't going to do what you want him to. He just won't.
>> Yes, he will.
>> You got chores to do, boy?
>> Yes, sir.
>> Then get to him.
I don't know, Merl. Al's got a lot of friends.
>> I want to know what the law says I can do.
>> Well, you could sue him.
>> Then I want to sue him.
>> It's not as simple as that.
>> Why not?
>> Well, you got to figure out things like how much it's going to cost you. Can you win?
>> I don't care what it costs, >> Merl. You go up against Ballard in this town, you're going to go through Judge Wilkins. Now Wilkins got shares in Ballard's cattle association.
>> I want my horses back in the condition I left them and damages for Billy. Do you want to handle it?
>> Jesus Merl, you're asking Wilkins to rule for you against Ballard and an engine against a white man.
>> I believe that God is to man as man is to animal. You treat him with respect.
You set dogs on a man. You pay for it.
Now the law upholds these ideas. And I mean to see the law has its day. Do you want to handle it?
>> I'm trying to tell you something here.
If you'll listen. You're wasting your money.
>> Yes or no?
>> I'll file if you want me to file. Cost you $20 in advance.
>> $20 in advance.
Half now and the rest want to see what you come up with.
Now you file it. Sure.
Two boxes. Here we go. Mom, good having you back. Think you paid up last time, so we're going to start fresh.
>> Okay, >> Mr. Wright, you got two swaybacks stinking up Mr. Ballard steak. I appreciate it if you pick him up real soon. You here?
Otherwise, we'll liking to chop him up for slop or something.
[laughter] >> All right, Slater, you want to take it on back to the room?
>> Kermit, next time Ballard or one of his fools comes in, tell him the law will take care of Ballard. And if the law don't take care of him, I'm going to take care of him. One way or the other, there's going to be justice. I will have it. Ballard himself is going to feed and groom my stallions. Make them shiny and beautiful just like I left them. Now, no matter what it costs me, that's going to happen. Sure as sunshine.
Will you tell Mr. Bow that if you see him? [laughter] >> Hear me. I speak the truth.
>> And poker as usual, my place Tuesday night.
I appreciate the help, judge. Oh, you're welcome.
>> Uh, Judge, Judge Wilkins, I was just coming up to see you.
>> I don't have time for you today, Rayborn. Come around next week. But we're waiting on your decision, judge.
It's been a couple of weeks now.
>> It's been a couple of weeks now, judge.
My client's getting awful nervous about this.
>> Sit down, Raybone. You make me nervous.
>> Yes, sir. Judge, I'm just waiting for your decision, judge.
I uh I hope the petition was in proper legal form. The way justice of your integrity is used to seem.
>> Nothing special. It was okay. You talked this petition over with Reading.
>> Yes, sir. Seems like a pissy fuss to me.
Reading wants to find a suit. Is that your idea?
>> Oh, well, no. Well, I give him counsel to the contrary, judge. His mind's made up.
>> Tell him to take his horses home and forget it.
>> Well, you see, my client views them as prize stallions. Judge >> prize is in the mind, counselor.
>> Huh?
>> Dollar don't want him. So, what's Reading going to do? Leave him there.
>> Well, it's like the charges says >> I know what the charges say.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Foolishness. Prideful foolishness is what this is. If I was you, I'd talk sense into him.
I got five towns to cover counseling.
You bring me this. I don't have time for a hearing.
$50 for Billy Redwood a crow. Jesus age.
>> Yeah. Well, I give him honest realistic counsel on that.
>> See you there.
>> Uh-huh.
>> Uh-huh. He wants it filed.
>> I just I'm We're just wondering when you want a hearing. That's all.
Well, you don't have to decide right now. Just when you get a chance.
>> Ain't going to be one.
>> I'm throwing a case out like evidence.
I advise you to tell Reading to pick up his horses and get on with his life.
>> Yes, sir. Judge. And I advise you to pick your clients more carefully if you want to do business in this town.
>> Yes, sir.
>> You're hauling [ __ ] up a mountain, Rayborn. Carefully it don't spill on you. [ __ ] up a mountain. Thank you.
>> Hey Merl, word is battle still working them horse out on the field.
>> Where'd you hear that?
>> Mac turnage coming in through Casper Thought they were yours. Maybe not though.
>> Just take him longer to put him back into shape.
>> Mhm.
>> Well, there ain't nothing more I can do.
except maybe uh Billy leaving the room with you. I want to say something right.
>> Anything you got to say to me, you can say in front of Billy.
>> Well, the word I get is Ballard wants to do business with you. He wants to settle with you on the horses, but he won't pay Billy.
>> Why not?
>> Well, Billy gave him trouble and run off.
>> Billy didn't run off. Ballard's fools run him off.
>> The suit stands the way it's red. Well, then he won't settle with you. It's going to be a standout.
>> Not in my mind.
>> Well, what else you going to do?
>> Or another tank.
>> Okay. You want more sto?
>> Please.
Are we ever going to get horses back?
>> I don't know. Gage, now you sleep tight. You let me worry about it.
I'm going to Cheyenne to see the governor before any of this happens, you know, or whoever runs the law. And if that don't work, I'm thinking about it.
>> Doing it all over again, ain't you?
>> Don't you know me?
Know there's no way I can let a man do what that man did.
That it's not possible. I know you.
>> If people are going to kick me, I'd rather be a dog than a man, Cora. So, if justice is to be done, don't deny me the freedom I need to get it.
>> No, this is not just about you and what you think is right. I'm a part of you and so is Cage. We just get thrown in.
Is that it?
>> Cor, please keep your voice down. Cage is listening.
>> I'm not saying you shouldn't go after Ballot, but you're doing exactly what he wants you to do to scare people away.
Let me try something, Merl. My way. If if it don't work, then then you do what you have to do. I'll stand with you no matter what.
>> What are you talking about, Coral?
>> You know I'm better at politicking than you are.
Let me go to Cheyenne Forest. No, I know the attorney general's wife, Judith Metaf. I met her at the statehood rally last year in Casper.
I spent the whole afternoon with her.
She'll get the petition to her husband.
That'll be the end of it. You get the horses back the way you want them and something for Billy.
>> Cor, this is not your fight.
>> It is my fight. It's my family. Look out that window. If you don't stay here and fix the bar, we're going to be living handtomouth before you know it.
>> I've been praying for a miracle so there'd be peace between Ballard and me.
But nothing comes back. No answers, no ways to go, nothing.
>> I'm your miracle. I'm what you prayed for.
What sort of woman is she? Attorney General's wife.
>> She's a fine woman.
>> Her husband?
>> I'm sure a husband is fair.
>> I don't know, Cor. What you're asking?
>> Truth is, I got a terrible fear. You go off, Jason Ballard. I'll never see you again.
>> You're getting sassy with your old man is what I'm hearing. You better watch that.
So, it's all [music] decided.
I'll be back in two weeks. I'll take Woody with me. I'll see [music] the attorney general. And I'll get the lamp.
All you always forget.
>> Two weeks is a long time.
>> Nothing like a [music] little separation to make the heart grow fonder.
Also, I'm smart in you when it comes to [music] politicing.
>> Or did I say that?
>> Yeah, I think you mentioned that one.
You're a miracle. All right.
>> Take care of my bride, will you?
[music] >> [music] >> If I meet a handsome cowboy, [music] I may go right on Delier.
>> Well, if you do send Woody back, I need him for the roofing.
>> Wouldn't be jealous, would you?
>> No.
>> Better come back. Hurry up. Who's my man?
>> Get down off of there, son.
>> Case, kiss your mother. Get off there.
Cage, go on now. Get out of here.
Now you're working on that barn.
>> Bye, boys.
Come on. Come on.
That's right. [music] That's right, folks. Come on in and see it all.
Don't nail it in before you let go.
who >> car honey. I'm going to go with the blacksmith.
>> All right, >> I'll come find you.
>> I'll be here.
>> These the original documents in the case.
>> Excuse me a moment. Mr. Crawford, you're next.
>> Now, okay, I will take these under consideration for the attorney general.
You are Mr. Wakefield. Is that correct?
Wakefield. Okay. You might want to take a seat. We'll get you soon.
>> You know any one of these things.
>> Look, but he started to he started to go off to the one side as we were coming up over the last hill.
>> I think we got to go visit an old neighbor of ours.
>> I said you were >> Mr. Metaf. Please.
>> You have an appointment?
>> No, I don't.
>> All these folks have appointments, ma'am. need to ride ahead so we can give you time. Mr. Lipton, you're next.
>> I come from Rollins to see Mr. Metaf. Do Do you think you could make an exception in my case?
>> Week is out of the question. He's across town with the statehood people.
>> Judith Metaf said anytime I was in Cheyenne to come look her up.
>> I'm sorry. There's nothing I can do.
>> My name is Cora Reading from Rollins. My husband is Merl Reading, the horse dealer. Maybe you know him.
>> No, ma'am. I surely don't.
>> Well, Mrs. has met CF does and she would want to know that I'm in Cheyenne.
>> So, could you please see that she gets this?
I'm staying at the Wayride Hotel. It's important that she get this message.
Thank you, Captain.
No end of them. Yes.
Okay.
Boy, we rubbed that up along the way, didn't we? Okay. Stay there. Hos.
[music] Hey, get the hell out of here, Woody.
>> [music] >> Someone get a doctor. She's still breathing.
[music] >> [music] >> Cora cold.
>> What happened?
>> She got run over.
>> Who is she?
>> Her name is Coren from Rollins. She come here to see the attorney general.
>> Oh, sir. I am the attorney general.
She come here to give you this.
Okay. You crazy bastards out there.
Okay.
It hurts awful.
>> Oh, I know. [panting] I know. I'm so sorry I left you down, Cora. I'm so sorry.
>> Don't let me die here.
>> Oh, no. You ain't going to die. I can let you die. We got to go home.
Hang on. Go home.
It needs to be okay now. [laughter] Infernal got real world.
>> Now, this petition doesn't belong here.
It's not the sound of Wilkins. Judge Wilkins and Rollins.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Private. Yes, sir. Get that in the pouch.
>> Hey everybody, Ma's coming.
>> Hey. Yeah, look at that. Right on time.
I swear your mother clocks better than Union Pacific Cage.
>> [music] [music] [music] >> What happened to my wife?
>> [music] [music] >> What happened?
[music] I'm so sorry I [music] wasn't there for her.
I'm so sorry.
I should never have left her.
It's all right. I'm so sorry. [laughter] >> You were looking for trouble.
[snorts] [snorts] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Be be praised, my Lord, for [snorts and laughter] those who forgive [music] through your love and bear sickness and tribulation.
Blessed are those who endure in peace, for they will be crowned by [music] you, most high.
Be praised, my Lord, for our sister bodily death, from whom no living [music] thing can escape.
Blessed are those [snorts] whom she finds doing your holy will.
For the second death can not harm them.
>> Annie up nicely. Mr. Ballot five card draw.
>> What happened?
Woody started. He said I smelled like pig slop. I stroked him a good one.
>> It would have pleasured me to been here to see that.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Take my advice. She's getting clear already.
>> Said his own woman to Cheyenne to beg for. What kind of man do a thing like that?
>> Keep buying as we've been doing and next year there'll be nothing but pasture from here to landers. No way they can stop us. Even the statehood.
>> According to you, Mr. Ballot.
>> Keep the land rolling in. That's the ticket. Calm everybody down as you want.
>> That means you, Ollie. You and Slater.
Good things are happening. We don't need trouble.
>> Uh, is that a quarter to me or to the judge?
>> Quarter.
>> A quarter to you, judge.
>> Another one.
[music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Shelby, >> how are you?
>> Shelby, this is your chance. I know you've been wanting to expand.
>> You want to sell out?
>> Maybe.
>> After all you put into it.
>> Well, yeah. I'm interested, Mar. I'd be a fool not to, but I got to I got to think about it. You come on me all of a sudden. The whole lot. But you've seen it, so you know what I'm talking about.
>> Oh, I know it's prime. All right.
>> A whole lot. Give me a hand.
All right, Haddock.
You're serious.
>> I got Raven working up the papers now.
You've been a good neighbor, Shelby. I want to give you a first crack.
>> You're talking the whole spread.
>> And what's on it?
>> Well, I got to tell you up front need for all them horses. Hold on. The horses ain't part of the deal. I got plans for the horses.
So, what we're talking is the price of the land and what's on it. I come up with $3 an acre.
>> $3 an acre.
That's a fair price, Moral.
You bet you that's all for good as long as you understand. Cash on signing.
>> Why are you doing this? I mean, you got water. You got one of the finest tracks of land in Rollins. I mean, if it's all because of Ballard, hell.
I mean, that land is your future.
There are bigger things in land.
M I hope you have >> Want a cup of coffee? Be nice.
>> No, that's all.
>> Hello, Mr. Raburn >> Cage.
What did he say? Well, attorney general sent your petition back.
I mean, he's awful sorry about court and everything, but he had to turn you down.
He says it's a local matter, and it's up to Judge Wilkins to decide. Huh?
That's the law. See, and he's got to obey it just like you.
What are you telling me?
>> Well, Wilkins already ruled, so that's it.
I uh I put in a lot of time on this, Merl.
>> Have you?
>> Yeah.
>> How much do I owe you?
>> 25.
Bless what you already owe.
Ah, boys.
That's all I got. The rest later.
I won't be needing anymore.
I'm awful sorry about what happened to Coral.
That's an awful thing to happen. Just awful.
Old town's upset about it.
If there's anything I can do, just how about something I want you to read.
Tell me what you think.
I'm Merl Rden by authority and [music] born in me as a free man. A >> free man living in a free territory.
Demand that Henry Ballard, within 7 days of receiving this note, bring to my stables the horses he [music] took from me. Groom and fatten them with your own hands to the condition I left them. And to injuries caused to Billy Redwood, who did nothing to you, pay him $50.
It is signed Merl Reading, owner of the horses. Let the law take care of [music] it. Merl, there's no way Balor is going to do what you tell him to do just because you say so.
>> Yes, he will. And if you don't, I got plans to convince him. Anyone want to hear the particulars? Come to my spread at sundown and I'll spell it out for you. [music] I hold no man responsible for the death of my wife but me.
I let her go.
And I got to live with that the rest [music] of my life.
Judge Wilkins.
In a town where there's no law, a man is obliged to make his own. Isn't that the way it works around here? Wouldn't you say, Judge Wilkins? 7 days.
[music] [music] [music] >> [music] >> Henry Balor, come talk to me.
I'm delivering a notice of law on you.
You got seven days to read it an answer.
Seven days and I'm coming for you.
I should have killed him.
>> Now, Shelby, I'll deposit the rest of the money in your name in the bank in Casper. If I need any, I'll come to you.
But remember, it's your money.
>> Why can't I just go with you?
>> Well, I need you to stay here with Mr. and Mrs. Dyke, so I don't worry.
>> Holland wants to go with you. It's your job now to hold down the fort till I get back. I mean, somebody's got to take care of the spread.
That's big responsibility. Do you understand?
>> Sure, >> Cage. Do you understand?
>> But all I want is to help you.
>> I know.
I know.
>> Hell, we all know it. Ballard's gone too far.
>> Yes, he has. putting up a toll gate, deciding who's to pay and who ain't.
>> If he can get away with what he done to Merl, he can do whatever the hell he wants. It's time we all woke up.
>> I know you're all real busy, so I'll get right to the point. I'm inviting you [clears throat] to ride with me against Henry Ballard.
>> No, what Ballard did to Billy and your horse's shore was bad. Now, I like to help, but this ain't my coral. You're >> right, Julie. It ain't your coral.
There'll come a time when this tollgate is just the start of things and B decides to box you in some more. Maybe take some of your land. We'll cut you off from water like he did Carrie Sartin.
>> That's right.
>> Then you'll come and say, "Look here, Merl. Look what Ballard's doing. I need your support." And I could say to you, Dewey, it ain't my quarrel. I run a horse farm. I live over there. 2-hour ride.
>> Mhm.
>> But until statehood comes along, all we got is Ball's law.
>> That's right.
And there's no future in it.
>> And I did not come 1500 miles to tolerate that.
>> I ain't looking for a shootout.
>> Well, neither is Merl.
>> That's right.
>> Overpowering with numbers. That's the idea. Scare them into doing right. Folks like you and me coming after them. No bloodshed.
>> What if he runs? We'll follow till we find him.
>> Damn right.
>> How long going to take him?
>> Maybe a day, maybe two, maybe longer. I don't care. I'll provide the horses and grub. As long as it takes.
>> It takes money, Marl.
>> My spread's for sale. Shelby and I worked out a deal. Every man jack of you gets $15 a month for as long as it takes to bring that man in alive and working in these stables.
>> Girl means business.
>> I'm for us. I'm sick of Ballard beating us.
>> I know men are right against him.
>> Bring him along. Now, if you don't want to go, it's okay with me. I'm going after Ballard anyway.
>> And if you don't want to go on principal, then go for money because I pay cash on the barrel head.
Amen.
[music] >> She ain't [music] coming. Who's he going to come with?
>> Well, he's got Woody and an engine.
[laughter] He shows he goes home in a pine box.
Hey, hold up there.
Hey. Hey, [screaming] Mr. Ballot. It's written and he's got a whole army with him. Got 100 men with him. Mr. Ballad, get out of here. Go get him up in the bunk house. Tell him to get down. Hurry up.
[screaming] Get the hell out of my way. Get back here. Get back here. Get back here.
You where you going?
See here.
>> Come on, son. Come on now. Get up there.
Hello.
>> Anything?
>> Nothing. Merl Slater and Ollie. They hightailed it.
Any man who treats an animal that way, he don't deserve a stable. Wouldn't you say, Billy?
Get the other animals out and burn it.
[music] >> [music] >> Get back.
[music] [music] >> [music] >> through. [music] There you go. What have you done? Look.
There you go. That'll do.
Mel, let's keep Ma'am, where's Balor?
>> I don't know.
>> Because of what your boss did, my law is now the law.
>> If you hide him or help him in any way, I'll burn you out. Do you understand?
>> Whatever's done, mend it.
>> Where's he going?
>> I don't know.
>> Don't lie.
>> Maybe headed for Cheyenne.
>> That's a long hall.
He's got to stop somewhere, doesn't he?
Please don't burn me out. I've got nowhere else to go.
>> Maybe headed for medicine ball.
>> Medicine ball? Who does he know in medicine ball?
>> Cobbeller. His brother-in-law owns a feed store there.
>> We leave for medicine ball tonight.
Let's go.
[music] [music] Ballard. Henry Ballard, you in there?
Come out.
>> Get off my property. Ready?
>> Check inside.
>> We ain't been introduced. How come you know my name?
>> I don't want no trouble.
>> You've been hiding a fugitive. That's a crime according to my law. Where is he?
Gone.
>> Where did he go?
>> I got nothing to do with your grudge against Henry.
>> Where and when did he go?
>> Come on.
While you're thinking about it, Billy, light me some fire.
I'll ask you one more time.
Where and when did he go?
>> You get the hell off my property. Ready?
>> Back where you come from. You ride with Crow.
on here.
>> If I knew where it was, I'd hide him to spite you.
>> Would you [music] burn him?
>> Come on.
>> Fire.
>> [music] >> Hey there.
>> [music] >> Heat. Heat.
>> [music] >> I'm looking for a man in Henry Ballard.
You know him?
>> Is there a printer around? I got a job for him. I pay cash.
Pardon me, ma'am. Miss, >> you a printer?
>> Yes, sir. I do print.
>> This is what I need printed. 200 copies.
How much?
>> $10.
>> I'll give you 15.
I need it right away.
>> I'll see what I can do.
>> Big. As big as you can make it.
>> Yes, sir.
Yes, that's what I do.
>> Big always.
>> As I said before, I'm looking for a man named Henry Ballard who cheated me out of my horses, injured him bad, and beat up my man. If you hide him or help him in any way, I'll burn you out.
[music] I, Merl Reading, by authority [music] inbornne in me as a free man living in a free territory, demand that Henry Ballard, within [music] 7 days of receiving this notice, bring to my stables the horses you took from me, groom and fatten them with your own hay to my stables.
>> [music] [music] >> If the injuries cause nothing to you paying $50 this time of the horses you There you go.
>> Oh, you're getting down.
>> Hey.
of any new job.
>> All right, men. Let's mount up.
>> You better leave some men at Reading's place. Sharon Ballard ain't going there.
He went to his brother-in-law's house.
>> Reading finds Henry. He's sure as hell coming back.
>> Maybe. But I ain't split my men. I need all I got. You expect me to get ready?
>> Let's go, man.
Terrible situation, Judge.
I tried to control it as best I could.
Just no turning.
You know, he tried to pay me for my work.
>> I wouldn't take his money.
>> No. There's a funny smell around here.
Governor, I think you should look at this.
>> Henry Ballard.
>> Mhm.
>> Where is he? And he was at the Waynewright Hotel. He keeps moving.
We're already ready.
>> He's outside of town somewhere.
>> Clear him out.
>> I can't. I've got a 100 men on escort duty.
>> So go with what you've got. And what I've got is 10 men. Sir Reading's got 40 50 guns and Crow. Every out of work drifter in Cheyenne is signing on with him. So I need at least a company.
Great.
Just what we need with a statehood delegation coming in from Washington.
What's the attorney general doing in all this?
>> Mr. Medaf sent Reading's petition back to Judge Wilkins. And >> well, uh, Wilkins kind of works for Ballard is what it comes down to, sir.
Got shares in his association. I hear this is what caused the trouble.
Ballard, don't sing our song on statehood.
>> I don't care where he stands. He's entitled to protection until the matters cleared up. Tell Mad Cafe I want to see him on Reading's petition.
>> Yes, sir. It's a mess.
>> When do your troops get back?
>> Two, three days. I ain't Ballard.
Tell him we can't guarantee his safety.
Tell him he's on his own. Tell him for his own good he ought to leave Cheyenne.
>> Is there anything you can do to calm things down?
>> About the only way to calm Reading down is to shoot him down.
Follow the sheriff. Let me know where he camps.
>> [music] >> Wake up, sheriff.
Strip him.
>> Now quit, Merl.
I've gone too far.
>> Far enough when I get satisfaction.
[music] Sheriff, >> no animal's worth what you're doing. in your opinion. Well, >> you're going to jail for torching Ballard's bread.
>> Long as he's in there with me. You get this back as [music] soon as I find him.
>> Remember me, coward?
>> Remember me?
Damn.
You stinking savage.
Hey, >> you all seen what happened.
Slater drew first and he was going to shoot Billy in the back. You all seen it, right, Sheriff? Slater moved, but Billy had the upper hand.
>> Slater drew first.
>> Right.
[music] Slater moved first.
>> You all heard the sheriff. Don't forget what he said.
>> Damn it.
>> Ollie. Ollie, listen to me. You got to get to Judge Wilkins. Tell him that Reading shot Slater and he burned down Ballard's barn. Tell him to file charges. Go on. Go on. Get going.
[applause and cheering] >> I know when the statehood delegation arrives, we will all show them the hospitality and friendliness that Wyoming people are known for. Yeah, >> we are not separate ranchers, farmers, and settlers of the Wyoming territory, but united today as citizens of the future great state of Wyoming.
[cheering] Yeah.
Where's Valerie?
>> Apparently, he'll hold up in the hotel, sir. Refuses to leave town. Do I have that correct, Colonel?
>> Yes, I posted two soldiers with him.
That's the best I could do.
>> Just a matter of time before Reading finds him.
>> This is going too far. Jailing who?
>> Thanks for your support.
>> Jail who? Governor >> Ballard. How much charges?
>> Any charge you won't. Any charge you'll agree to. Disturbing the peace. See if he'll buy it. He wants protection.
Jail is the safest place for him. Thank you.
Colonel find ready to tell him if he quits going after Ballard that the attorney general will reopen his case.
>> I don't know, governor. People are upset.
>> Delegation arrives in two days. I want the streets clear.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Amnesty for what Reading's done. If he quits going after Boward, put it on paper, colonel, find him and give it to him. This is nonsense. The statehood of Wyoming will not be held up by a piss fight over two horses and a Crow Indian.
Understand me? I want this settled now.
You understand?
>> Governor, let's get a picture. You know the ladies?
>> Yes, I do.
>> All right, smile everybody.
Great.
>> Thank you for coming, everyone. Let's go eat.
[music] [music] Billy.
Billy, come with me.
What is going on around? We'll catch up later.
Heat.
Heat.
Hold your fire.
Hold your fire. [music] Hold your fire. Don't shoot.
[music] Hold your fire.
Hold your fire.
>> [gasps] >> I'm sorry.
It's getting so I don't recognize none of these guys anymore.
>> Yeah.
>> [snorts] >> I didn't think it out.
I should have known you draw fire coming in out of nowhere.
It was wrong to kill Slater for what he did to us.
And I [music] still can't believe Cor is dead, Billy.
I keep hoping a miracle happened and she'll come back to life.
God forgive [music] me for letting her go.
I'm coming after [music] you anyway, old man.
I'm coming.
What day do you suppose it is?
>> I don't know.
>> Riders coming.
[music] Governor wants to make a deal.
>> I'm listening.
>> You lay down your arms, come in peaceibly, he'll reopen your case against Ballard. You do this, we'll drop all charges against you.
>> Where's Ballard?
>> He's going to jail for disturbing the peace.
>> Maybe your boss don't read too good. I don't want him in jail. I want him working on my stables. Now, that's something I can't negotiate. Governor promises a hearing right away.
>> And if I say no, >> well, then I go after you with the army and you lose.
Billy's part of this. I got to talk it over with him.
They say they'll drop the charges if you come in.
>> I don't trust them.
>> That's what they say.
Rivers are not to be trusted. Neither are white men's armies. It's a trick.
>> Maybe you decide for you.
I'll decide for me.
>> Take care, my brother. You think so?
>> We'll see each other again. Just not on this road.
Goodbye, little brother. [music] Goodbye, Billy.
Goodbye.
[music] Heat. Heat.
[music] [music] >> [snorts] >> You got that.
Hold it. Hold it. Hold it. Stop the work. Take it outside, boys. I got a hearing to run.
>> Heard it.
Here, here. The court of the territory of Wyoming is now in session. The honorable Joe B. To Tolliver presiding.
>> Judge, it is a real Ballard. This is a legal hearing and you will get your chance to be heard when you are addressed. Be seated. Reading and Ballard. Remain standing.
>> Everybody take your seats.
>> Raise your right hands. Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth? Nothing but the truth. So help you God.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Please be seated. Are all the parties in this dispute here?
>> Oh, but Billy Redwood.
>> Where's Billy Redwood? He left Cheyenne, your honor. He refused the offer of amnesty.
>> Murder of a bastard.
>> Keep your mouth shut or I will have you jailed for contempt.
>> Want to get to the bottom of this in 2 hours or less of my time. Now, Mr. Reing, this is your petition.
Do you wish to change any of it?
>> Is that the one for my wife?
>> Yes.
>> No.
>> Will you accept cash for the horses?
>> No. Accept what the words say. Since Billy Redwood has refused amnesty, you may drop him from this petition.
>> Suit stands away. It's red. Judge.
>> So be it. Mr. Ballard, let's start with you.
What's your side of this mess?
>> Well, your honor, this uh troublemaker read and come on my land on his way to Casper to sell some horses. And I made a neighborly offer that he could pass pay me $10. Well, he had a near fit. Said he didn't have no $10. Yeah. Still trying to be helpful. I told him, >> "Sir, >> I can understand you from over there."
>> Uh, that if he'd just leave two of his animals when he came back, he could pay me pick them up. It'd be all right. Uh, and he left me uh two sway back old bones, you know. And when he did come to get them, he said, "These are not my horses." I said, "Of course they are."
He cursed me and left. Now, that's all there was to it. You can ask Ollie because he was right there. And poor old Slater.
>> Slater ain't part of this hearing, Valley. Now, even before we hear Reading side of the story, I got to tell you, I don't believe the part about the two sway back old bones.
>> Oh, but that's what there was.
>> Ain't no dealer I know would travel a 100 miles, sell a $5 nag.
>> I know horse.
>> So do I.
Now [clears throat] you put up a toll gate on your property.
>> It's my land.
>> Ready know what it cost him $10 for the crossing?
>> Whether he did or not, it's nothing to me. You charge everybody the same $10 to come and go.
>> You bet.
>> You're under oath, Mr. Ballard.
>> Some do and some don't. Is that it?
>> Well, I am a cattle rancher. I have >> Judge Wilkins over in Rollins just filed two counts of murder and one count of insurrection against me already.
>> Put up anything you want on your property, including a damn toll gate.
Excuse me, gentlemen. Would you take it outside of my courtroom, please?
>> Sorry, Dad. Apologies.
Thank you.
Although putting up a toll gate to my mind is a hostile act. And if it happened to me in my travels, you would feel the lash of my tongue. He says, "The governor doesn't have the power to grant amnesty for murder." Murder? What murder? A rancher's wife named Daisy Matis, one of Ballard's men, Slater, Morrison.
>> What's relevant here is the law. I judge cases on law. Law is the king with me cuz if it wasn't, this territory, even if it becomes a state, wouldn't be fit for a prairie dog.
>> [clears throat] >> Now, >> reading, what's your story?
>> He's lying.
>> Hold it.
>> Hold it. Order in this courtroom. Please take your seats.
>> Continue.
>> Wilkins claims Ready shot them both and burned down Ballard's bar. He says all this happened before the amnesty.
Agreed.
>> Before the amnesty?
>> God damn. We didn't know anything about any shootings. No.
>> What's the governor know about this?
>> I thought I should tell you first. We need to figure out how best to take this to the governor.
>> Come in peaceibly and all charges will be dropped.
Who wrote this? You.
>> No, sir.
I did, sir.
>> You did?
What the hell is he doing writing a legal document?
>> Well, that's the way it it just worked out, sir.
>> He doesn't know the first damn thing about law, much less amnesty.
>> Francis, I've been attending the statehood delegation. You are the attorney general and you allowed this this him to write an amnesty agree.
>> Sir, there was no one else. If I did not do it, it was not going to get done.
>> Do you realize the position you've put me in? Hoy, I am on public record for giving murder.
>> We were unaware of that at the time.
Sir, >> when did these murders happen?
>> As near as we can figure, sir. a couple of days before Reading's amnesty.
>> So, we covered him. Is that what you're saying?
>> Well, that's a legal question.
>> If a legal mind had prepared the amnesty, we wouldn't be in a legal mess.
>> You're right, sir.
>> This is all your fault, Hort. Get Judge Toiver.
>> Well, he's in court right now.
>> I would not advise bothering Judge Toiver right now, sir.
>> Get him anyway.
Now.
>> Yes, sir.
And them horses were promised to me when I went to Casper to pick them up, but was told that Merl didn't bring him.
That surprised me. Merl, he don't do business that way. Merl gives you his word. That's it.
>> What in your judgment was the value of these horses?
>> They was match stallions, your honor. I was willing to pay $200 each for them.
You ever seen him before?
>> Yeah, when they was yearlings.
>> You're dismissed.
>> Thank you, your honor. [clears throat] >> Anyone else have an opinion in this matter? Anyone?
>> All right, Mr. Reading, you will have a guard with you at all times until this case is over.
>> I don't need a guard, your honor.
>> There's angry people all over Cheyenne about this business. You can either have a guard or you can share a cell with Mr. Ballard. It's up to you.
I'll take the guard.
Hearing is ajourned.
>> That's everything. Mr. Van, you're all set.
Good.
>> Well, we already I can't stand here yarn.
>> You know, all this is over two horses.
Two horses and and I think >> three maybe four people dead. Oh no.
This is madness. Excuse me. And this man Ready was threatening to burn down the Waywright Hotel. This place is not ready to be a state. I can tell you that right now.
>> Well, we can talk all night long, but the people want something done.
>> Something will be done, Conrad, but it's got to be according to the law.
>> The question is, can Reading's amnesty be revoked?
>> He signed an executive agreement forgiving a man for something he'd already done, and he put a date on it.
>> For gave my word to honor it. But if reading violates the terms of his amnesty, you can revoke it and try him for murder.
>> But you've got to do it legal. If he doesn't violate his amnesty, you got a problem. You got to prove in court what you knew when it was granted. In the meantime, gentlemen, if you will excuse me, I got to go pee.
>> I think it's time for me to retire, Francis. Thank you.
>> Good evening, Horicon.
>> Small thing, Governor, if you don't mind. Good night, tomorrow.
>> Good night. Want to come out?
>> Your ballot wants to see you.
>> No, not with a trial coming up.
>> Well, if he feels wrong, sir. He does own a lot of land. Just a a word, sir.
He ain't going to plead his case. Just a word a moment. No more. Governor, >> show him in.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Mr. Ballard, the governor will see you now.
Sir, this is uh Henry Ballard.
Mr. Bow, what the hell is going on here?
You got a murder running loose in Cheyenne. Free as a J-bird. I ain't done nothing. And I'm locked away in jail.
Now I'm one of the biggest cattlemen in this territory. I ain't getting no respect. I ain't getting no protection.
Now you're talking about statehood for this 10horn shanty ain't worth a [ __ ] city. To hell with that. Where's my protection? Where is the army?
We don't have an army.
>> What? The army we have is on escort duty.
Protecting the folks from Washington.
Coming here to take this tinhorn shanty ain't worth a [ __ ] city and turn it into the capital of the state of Wyoming.
Under the circumstances, you can hight tail it out of town and take your chances on the road, which would suit me fine, or you can cool your ass in jail until things blow over. Either way, can't.
Yeah, >> Conrad.
>> Well, that wraps up a good productive day. him. He can't just go in somebody's house and burn down their barn. You can't just ride up and shoot somebody's wife. What? Where's the army? That's what I want to know. Where's the army?
You're just going around.
>> You need to be stopped.
You're welcome.
Billy wants to know how the trial is going. Judge ain't decided yet. How is it for you?
>> It's bad for us. If we get caught, they'll hang us. Billy wants to know if you will join us.
>> I'm keeping after Ballard.
I better spell it out for him.
Take this to him.
>> Good, friend.
Judge, how does this affect the amnesty?
I don't know how it will go with me, but if I lose, God willing, I have the strength to continue my fight. And with your help and friendship, I will.
Reading wrote this means he intends to break his part of the agreement and continue his fight with Ballard.
You can revoke the amnesty.
>> I say we arrest him and announce it to the crowd. That'll be the end of it.
>> There's a trial coming up, Mr. Metaf in which you as chief legal officer of this territory will have to consider all of the facts including murder and armed insurrection and not just part of it.
That will be the end of it.
Sir, somebody owes you an apology.
old man. Remember that boy.
[clears throat] >> Let's get on with this. The engine moved first. I seen it with my two eyes. Billy stalked Slater with a knife while Slater was on the ground. Reading watching all the time, he didn't say a word. Didn't say, "Hold on, Billy Redwood. What? What are you going to do? What are you up to?" See, Reading knew that it was Slater who beat up the Indian. It was Slater who got in the fight with Woody on the day that Reading's wife was killed. So when Slater moved to defend himself, Merl shot him dead.
It's premeditated murder.
>> They come riding up all of a sudden, >> the engine out front and I winged the crow pretty good and then and for no reason started firing and then Daisy, she uh God have mercy on her. She uh she heard the shooting and then she came running out to protect me [snorts] and and then that that man that man shot her.
I didn't know nothing about a coral.
All I know is Daisy and me had nothing to do with it.
And now she's gone.
>> I'm sorry for your wife, >> but you're a liar.
>> Mr. Reading, I have here in my hand a letter which may seem familiar to you.
>> Did you write this letter to Billy Redwood?
>> Yes, I did.
>> Would you do me the favor, sir, please, of reading it aloud to the jury?
if you like.
Dear Billy, I'm sorry I got you into this. Doesn't look good for you. The judge says you have no claim because you didn't show up. I don't know how it will go with me, but if I lose, God willing, I have the strength to continue my fight. And with your help and friendship, I will. With your help and friendship, I will what? Continue to burn people's barns and property. Continue to murder innocent people. Is that what you're saying?
>> No, that's not what I mean.
I said I will continue the fight against Ballard and I will, but I didn't say how. And I never said I'd done everything right.
And I take responsibility for that.
But Grady is lying when he says I killed his wife. And the sheriff is lying about how I killed Slater. I didn't go looking to kill anybody.
It's justice I'm looking for and it's justice I'll get. I'll track it as long as I'm breathing.
And even if it cost me my life.
>> [music] >> here. He hear the Court of the Territory of Wyoming is now in session. The Honorable Joe Bulliver presiding.
>> Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, have you reached a verdict?
>> We have, your honor.
>> Thank you, Miss Hayden.
Merl reading, please rise. Mr. Former, on the charge of killing Slater Morrison, we find the defendant Merl Red not guilty.
>> On the charge of two counts of armed insurrection and the killing of Daisy Matis, we find the defendant Merl Reen guilty as charged.
Order. Thank you, Mr. Foreman. Ro read Reading. Henry Ballard, please approach the bans.
>> We got him. I told you we get him.
>> How you like this, Justice, boy?
>> Wipe that smile off your face, Mr. Ballard. This is serious business.
You first. Mr. Bow. The petition of grievance against you by Mr. Reading has been upheld. You are to with your own hands restore the health and good condition of the two horses left in your care by Merl Reading. Further, in your testimony to this court, you lied when you described the condition of the horses as swaybacked old bones. Nothing could be further from the truth as testified by those who knew the value of the horses. Lying under oath is a serious offense.
[snorts] I therefore sentence you to two years in jail for perjury. Three months of [music] which will be spent working in burrow renting stables.
>> Get your order.
>> Merl reading.
You have been found guilty of armed insurrection and murder. Do you have anything to say before this court passes judgment upon you?
>> I took the law into my own hands.
I did it because there was none in Rollins.
I wrote my own law, but I didn't create it.
I used what [music] was there all along.
In my mind, that law was there before we were born.
>> [music] >> I am sorry for Daisy Matthysse. When we rode off, we never knew she'd been shot.
For my pardon, I beg [music] her husband's forgiveness.
I'm a horse trader, your honor. All I was doing was taking my horses to market. [music] That's it.
You wanted justice, you got justice coming to you.
>> Ready.
>> The horses misused by Henry Ballard will be restored [music] to their former condition and to your satisfaction.
Following that, hey, >> it is the sentence of this court that you be taken [music] to a place of execution and hang by the neck until you are dead.
[music] >> [groaning] [screaming] >> And may God have mercy on your soul.
>> [music] >> Court is journal.
There you go.
>> Okay.
about [music] [music] [music] heat.
>> [music] [music] [music] >> Can I just take a moment with my son?
Hey, come on now. [snorts] You're the man of the house. Come on.
>> Your mother and I will always be with you. You're just going to have to make it on your own for a while.
>> Why are they doing this to you, Paul?
>> Two people died of me, chasing ballad.
Somebody's got to pay.
>> But why? You didn't kill nobody.
>> I killed Slater. Right. But I didn't kill Daisy. It's important to me that you know I didn't. Her husband must have shot her by mistake.
[snorts] But I caused it.
Did you see the horses?
How do they look?
>> Great.
>> Promise me something, son.
>> Sure. Ball.
>> Don't ever settle.
>> [snorts] >> I'll never sour. Never.
>> You're the best two you and Billy ever raised.
A lot of pride in those stallions come from a great line you can build on.
So, how much money you got in the bank?
>> Maybe $200.
>> Well, you got the rest of the money Shelby owes.
He's a good man. You can trust him.
I'll take good care of you.
>> Shel Shelby says there there's >> we could bust out. There's a lot of folks in town and they're talking about it's time to put an end to it.
>> There's there's still time we could do it again.
>> Cage, they'd find me sooner or later. I don't want any more killing in my name.
Do you understand?
Now listen to me. Somebody steps on your rights, go after them. Never give up.
Never.
>> Just be smarter than I was.
All right, >> come on. Let's go look at the horses.
>> Mr. Ready, here are your horses.
Well, sir, >> these are my horses.
>> Beautiful animals, wouldn't you say, judge?
>> You want them, you got them. Hey, you burning hell. You son of a [ __ ] You got nothing for me. You did what I said you'd do.
>> You got nothing. Nothing. Nothing.
That's all you got. Nothing. I get what he said anyway.
>> [music] >> What happened?
[music] [music] [music] cigar.
[sighs] I worry [gasps] about you and me, Judge Wilkins. Swear to God, I do. Cuz if this country gets ruined, it'll be ruined by people like you and me. This is a territory of unimportant people. Most folks around here can't even write their name.
You and me.
We're the important people.
Trouble is there's not enough of us important people to go around.
We're spread thin. So sometimes important things get ignored or don't get said.
Like take care of the little fella.
See to it that he don't get ignored or cheated or insulted. Make sure that his dignity does not get trampled on. Now you're feeling bad right now. And by God, you ought to seeing as what just happened to a decent man.
Merl reading did not fail the law.
The law failed Merl.
Just so you'll know who's behind it.
This is a copy of a letter that I wrote to the governor asking that a committee be called to evaluate your fitness as a sitting judge.
It is my earnest hope and desire that that committee finds you wanting and that articles of impeachment be drawn to remove you from the bench. I'm doing this out in the open. Everything's on the table up and up so you'll know who the son [ __ ] is that is gunning for your ass. It's me, the honorable Joby Talib.
Well, we'll close, judge. Out of respect for the condemned man. For you, judge.
I'm willing to make an exception. 10 bucks a shot if you got a permit.
Got to have a permit, judge.
Whoa. Girl, >> where's Billy?
>> He's inside.
>> Where is he?
>> He's in the kitchen.
>> Billy, >> sorry about the horses.
>> What happened?
>> Slater. Slater. Run me out.
Why?
>> As long as I was there, he couldn't work the blacks to death.
I told him they were young and and they'd never been in harness. He he tied them to a pigsty in a mud. Wouldn't take the harness off. After a week, they were filthy. And one day I came out, he had them hooked up to a log pool.
>> Come on.
Then that old Slater and Ollie, >> they beat me.
>> Then they set them dogs on me.
[screaming] [groaning] [screaming] >> They might have killed me if I went back there.
>> You did right, Le.
>> Why don't you let Billy eat? [snorts] how to kill him. Boy, >> what did you let Billy hate?
>> Yeah.
Rest easy.
Damn it.
What are you going to do?
>> Get my horses back the way I left them.
And damages for Billy.
>> Ballard ain't going to do that cuz you tell him to and pay Billy to boot. You'd be the laughing stalker Rollins. You're setting yourself up for a fall. Merl >> Ballard ain't going to do what you want him to. He just won't.
>> Yes, he will.
>> You got chores to do, boy?
>> Yes, sir.
>> Then get to him.
I don't know. Merl's got a lot of friends.
>> I want to know what the law says I can do.
>> Well, you could sue him.
>> Then I want to sue him.
>> It's not as simple as that. Why not?
>> Well, you got to figure out things like how much it's going to cost you. Can you win?
>> I don't care what it costs, >> Merl. You go up against Ballard in this town, you're going to go through Judge Wilkins. Now Wilkins got shares in Ballad's cattle association.
>> I want my horses back in the condition I left them and damages for Billy. Do you want to handle it?
>> Jesus Merl. You're asking Wilkins to rule for you against Ballard and an engine against a white man.
>> I believe that God is to man as man is to animal. You treat him with respect.
You set dogs on a man. You pay for it.
Now the law upholds these ideas. And I mean to see the law has its day. Do you want to handle it?
>> I'm trying to tell you something here.
If you'll listen. You're wasting your money. Yes or no?
>> I'll file if you want me to file. Cost you $20 in advance.
$20 in advance.
Half now and the rest want to see what you come up with.
Now you file it. Sure.
Two boxes. Here we go. Mom, it's good having you back. Think you paid up last time, so we're going to start fresh.
>> Okay.
>> Mr. Reading, you got two swaybacks stinking up Mr. Ballard State. I appreciate it if you pick him up real soon. You here?
Otherwise, we'll liken to chop him up for slop or something. [laughter] >> All right, Slater, you want to take it on back to the room?
>> Kermit, next time Ballard or one of his fools comes in, tell him the law will take care of Ballard. And if the law don't take care of him, I'm going to take care of him. One way or the other, there's going to be justice. I will have it. Ballard himself is going to feed and groom my stallions. Make them shiny and beautiful just like I left them. Now, no matter what it costs me, that's going to happen. Sure as sunshine.
Will you tell Mr. Bow that if you see him? [laughter] >> Hear me? I speak the truth.
>> And poker as usual, my place Tuesday night.
I appreciate the help, judge. Oh, you're welcome.
>> Uh, Judge, Judge Wilkins, I was just coming up to see you.
>> I don't have time for you today, Rayborn. Come around next week. But we're waiting on your decision, judge.
It's been a couple of weeks now.
>> It's been a couple of weeks now, judge.
My client's getting awful nervous about this.
>> Sit down, Rayon. You make me nervous.
>> Yes, sir. Judge, I'm just waiting for your decision, Judge.
I uh I hope the petition was in proper legal form the way justice of your integrity is used to seem.
>> Nothing special. It was okay. You talked this petition over with Reading.
>> Yes, sir. Seems like a pissy fuss to me.
Reading wants to find a suit. Is that your idea?
>> Oh, well, no. Why give him counsel to the contrary, judge? His mind's made up.
>> Tell him to take his horses home and forget it.
>> Well, you see, my client views them as prize stallions, judge.
>> Prize is in the mind, counselor.
>> Huh?
>> Dollar don't want him. So, what's Reing going to do? Leave him there.
>> Well, it's like the charges says >> I know what the charges say.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Foolishness. Prideful foolishness is what this is. If I was you, I'd talk sense into him.
I got five towns to cover counsel and you bring me this. I don't have time for a hearing.
$50 for Billy Redwood a crow. Jesus age.
>> Yeah. Well, I give him honest realistic counsel on that.
>> See you. Uh-huh.
>> Uh-huh. He wants it filed.
>> I just We're just wondering when you want a hearing. That's all.
Well, you don't have to decide right now. Just when you get a chance.
>> Ain't going to be one.
>> I'm throwing a case out like evidence.
I advise you to tell Reading to pick up his horses and get on with his life.
>> Yes, sir. Judge. And I advise you to pick your clients more carefully if you want to do business in this town.
>> Yes, sir.
>> You're hauling [ __ ] up a mountain, Rayborn. Carefully it don't spill on you.
>> [ __ ] up a mountain. Thanks.
>> Hey Merl, word is B still working them horse out in the field.
>> Where'd you hear that?
>> Mac turnage coming in through Casper feather thong. Thought they were yours.
Maybe not though.
>> Just take him longer to put him back into shape.
>> Mhm.
>> Well, there ain't nothing more I can do.
Merl maybe uh Billy leaving the room with Woody. I want to say something.
>> Anything you got to say to me, you can say in front of Billy.
>> Well, the word I get is Ballard wants to do business with you. He wants to settle with you on the horses, but he won't pay Billy.
>> Why not? Well, Billy gave him trouble and run off.
>> Billy didn't run off. Ballard's fools run him off.
>> The suit stands the way it's red. Well, then he won't settle with you. It's going to be a standoff. Not to my mind.
Well, what else you going to do or another tax?
>> Okay. You want more sto?
>> Please.
>> Are we ever going to get horses back?
>> I don't know. Cage, now you sleep tight. You let me worry about it.
I'm going to Cheyenne to see the governor before any of this happens, you know, or whoever runs the law. And if that don't work, I'm thinking about it.
>> Doing it all over again, ain't you?
>> Don't you know me?
Know there's no way I can let a man do what that man did.
That is not possible.
>> I know you. If people are going to kick me, I'd rather be a dog than a man, Cora. So, if justice is to be done, don't deny me the freedom I need to get it.
>> No, this is not just about you and what you think is right. I'm a part of you and so is Cage. We just get thrown in.
Is that it?
>> Cor, please keep your voice down. Cage is listening.
>> I'm not saying you shouldn't go after Ballot, but you're doing exactly what he wants you to do to scare people away.
Let me try something, Merl. my way. If if it don't work, then then you do what you have to do. I'll stand with you no matter what.
>> What are you talking about, Coral?
>> You know I'm better at politicking than you are.
Let me go to Cheyenne Forest. No, I know the attorney general's wife, Judith Metaf. I met her at the statehood rally last year in Casper.
I spent the whole afternoon with her.
She'll get the petition to her husband.
That'll be the end of it. You get the horses back the way you want them. It's something for Billy.
>> Cor, this is not your fight.
>> It is my fight. It's my family. Look out that window. If you don't stay here and fix the barn, we're going to be living handtomouth before you know it.
>> I've been praying for a miracle so there be peace between Ballard and me. But nothing comes back. No answers, no ways to go, nothing.
>> I'm your miracle. I'm what you prayed for.
What sort of woman is she? Attorney General's wife.
>> She's a fine woman.
>> Her husband?
>> I'm sure a husband is fair.
>> I don't know, Cor. What you're asking?
>> Truth is, I got a terrible fear. You go off chasing Ballard, I'll never see you again.
>> You're getting sassy with your old man is what I'm hearing. You [music] better watch that.
>> So, it's all decided.
I'll be back in 2 weeks. I'll take Woody with me. I'll see the attorney general and I'll get the lamp all you always forget.
>> 2 weeks is a long time.
>> Nothing like a little separation to [music] make the heart grow fonder.
Also, I'm smart in you when it comes to politicking. [music] Or did I say that?
>> Yeah, I think you mentioned that one.
>> [music] >> You're a miracle. All right.
>> Take care of my bride, will you?
[music] >> [music] >> If I meet a handsome cowboy, I make a ride [music] on Phil.
>> Well, if you do send Woody back, I need him for the roofing.
>> Wouldn't be jealous, would you?
>> No.
[music] >> Better come back. Hurry up. Who's my man?
>> Get down off of there, son. Case, kiss your [music] mother. Get off there, kids. Go on now. Get out of here. Go on now.
You're working on that barn.
[music] Bye, boys. [music] >> Come on. Come on.
[music] >> [music] >> That's right.
[music] We got That's right, folks. Come on in and see it.
Don't nail it in before you let go.
>> [music] >> to take care of >> car honey. I'm going to go with the blacksmith.
>> All right, >> I'll come find you.
>> I'll be here.
>> These are the original documents in the case.
>> Excuse me a moment. Mr. Crawford, you're next.
>> Mr. Crawford >> now. Okay, I will take these under consideration for the attorney general.
You are Mr. Wakefield. Is that correct?
Wakefield. Okay.
You might want to take a seat. We'll get you as soon as we know any one of these things. Look, >> he started to he started to go off to the one side as we were coming up over the last hill.
>> I think we got to go visit an old neighbor of ours.
>> I said, >> "Mr. Metaf, please.
>> You have an appointment?"
>> No, I don't. All these folks have appointments, ma'am. Need to ride ahead so we can give you time. Mrs. Lipton, you're next.
>> I come from Rollins to see Mr. Medaf. Do Do you think you could make an exception in my case?
>> This week is out of the question. He's across town with the statehood people.
>> Judith Metaf said anytime I was in Cheyenne to come look her up.
>> Sorry, there's nothing I can do.
>> My name is Cora Reading from Rollins. My husband is Merl Reading, the horse dealer. Maybe you know him.
>> No, ma'am. I surely don't.
>> Well, Mrs. Metaf does, and she would want to know that I'm in Cheyenne. So, could you please see that she gets this?
I'm staying at the Wayride Hotel. It's important that she get this message.
Thank you, Captain.
No end of them. Yes.
>> Okay. [music] Boy, we rubbed that up along the way, didn't we? You okay there, Hos?
Hey, get the hell out [screaming] of here, Woody.
>> [music] >> Someone get a doctor. She's still breathing.
[music] >> [music] >> Correction.
>> What happened?
>> She got run over.
>> Who is she?
>> Her name is Cory Red from Wallace. She come here to see the attorney general.
>> Well, so I am the attorney general.
>> She come here.
>> [panting] >> Give you this [ __ ] crazy bastards out there. Okay.
>> It hurts awful.
>> Oh, I know. I know. I'm so sorry I let you down. I'm so sorry.
>> Don't let me die here.
>> Oh, no. You ain't going to die. I can let you die. [laughter] We got to go home.
Hang home. It needs to be okay now.
Attorney General.
[laughter] >> This petition doesn't belong here. It's on the sound of Wilkins. Judge Wilkins and Rollins.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Private. Yes, sir. Get that in the pouch to Rollins.
Hey everybody, Ma's coming.
>> Hey. Yeah, look at that. Right on time.
I swear your mother clocks better than Union Pacific Cage.
>> [music] [music] >> What happened to my wife?
>> [music] >> What happened?
[music] >> [music] [music] >> I'm so sorry I wasn't there for her.
I'm so sorry.
I should never have left her.
>> It's all right. I'm so sorry.
>> You are looking for trouble.
[music] [snorts] >> [music] >> Be be praised, my Lord, for [snorts] those who forgive through your love and bear sickness [music] and tribulation.
Blessed are those who endure in peace, for they will be crowned by you, most high.
Be praised, my Lord, for our sister, bodily death, from whom no living thing [music] can escape.
>> Blessed are those whom she [music] finds doing your holy will.
for the second death not harm them.
>> Annie up nicely missed the ballot. Five card draw. [laughter] >> That what happened?
>> Woody started. He said I smelled like pig slop. I stroked him a good one.
>> It would have pleasured me to been there to see that.
>> Yes, sir. You take my advice. She's getting clear already.
>> City's own woman to Cheyenne to beg for it.
>> Yeah. What kind of man do a thing like that?
>> Keep buying as we've been doing and next year there'll be nothing but pasture from here to landers. No way they can stop us. Even the statehood.
>> According to you, Mr. Ballot.
>> Keep the land rolling in. That's the ticket. Calm everybody down.
>> That means you, Ollie. You and Slater.
Good things are happening. We don't need trouble.
Uh, is that a quarter to me or to the judge?
>> A quarter to you, judge.
>> You got another one.
[music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Shelby, [music] >> how are you?
>> Shelby, this is your chance. I know you've been wanting to expand. You want to sell out? Maybe >> after all you put into it.
Well, yeah, I'm interested. Well, I'd be a fool not to, but I got to I got to think about it. You come on me all of a sudden. A whole lot. But you've seen it, so you know what I'm talking about.
>> Oh, I know it's prime. All right.
>> A whole lot. Give me a hand.
All right, Haddie.
You're serious?
>> I got Rabin working up the papers now.
You've been a good neighbor, Shelby. I want to give you a first crack. You talking the whole spread and what's on it?
Well, I got to tell you up front need for all them horses. Hold on. The horses ain't part of the deal. I got plans for the horses.
So, what we're talking is the price of the land and what's on it. I come up with $3 an acre. $3 an acre.
That's a fair price, Merl.
You bet you that's awful good. As long as you understand cash on Simon, >> why are you doing this, bro? I mean, you got water. You got one of the finest tracks of land in Rollins. I mean, if it's all because of Ballard, hell.
I mean, that land is your future.
There are bigger things in land.
>> I hope you have.
>> Want a cup of coffee? Be nice.
No, that's all.
>> Hello, Mr. Raburn >> Cage.
>> What did he say? Well, attorney general sent your petition back.
I mean, he's awful sorry about court and everything, but he had to turn you down.
He says it's a local matter and it's up to Judge Wilkins to decide. Huh?
That's the law. See, and he's got to obey it just like you.
What are you telling me?
>> Well, Wilkins already ruled, so that's it.
I [clears throat] uh I put in a lot of time on this, Merl.
>> Have you?
>> Yeah.
>> How much do I owe you?
>> 25.
Bless what you already own.
Ah, boys.
That's all I got. The rest later.
[clears throat] I won't be needing anymore.
I'm awful sorry about what happened to Coral.
That's an awful thing that happened.
Just awful.
Whole town's upset about it.
If there's anything I can do, just how about something I want you to read.
Tell me what you think.
I'm Merl Rden by authority and born in me is a free man. A >> free man living in a free territory.
Demand that Henry Ballard within 7 days of receiving this note. Bring to my stables the horses he took from me.
Groom and fatten them with your own hands to the condition I left them. And to injuries caused to Billy Redwood who did nothing to you, pay him $50.
It is signed moral reading, owner of the horses.
Let the law [music] take care of it, Merl. There's no way Balor is going to do what you tell him to do just because you say so.
>> Yes, he will. And if you don't, I got plans to convince him. Anyone want to hear the particulars? Come to my spread at sundown and I'll spell it out for you. I hold no man responsible [music] for the death of my wife but me.
I let her go and I got to live with that the rest of my life.
Judge [music] Wilkins, in a town where there's no law, a man is obliged to make his own. Isn't that the way it works around here? Wouldn't you say, Judge Wilkins? 7 days.
[music] [music] [music] >> [bell] [music] >> Henry Ballard, come [music] talk to me.
I'm delivering a notice of law on you.
You got seven days to read it and answer 7 days and I'm coming for you.
I should have killed him.
>> Now, Shelby will deposit the rest of the money in your name in the bank in Casper. If I need any, I'll come to you.
But remember, it's your money.
>> Why can't I just go with you?
>> Well, I need you to stay here with Mr. and Mrs. Dyke, so I don't worry.
>> All I want is to go with you. It's your job now to hold down the fort till I get back. I mean, somebody's got to take care of the spread.
That's a big responsibility. Do you understand?
>> Sure, >> Cage. Do you understand?
>> But all I want is to help you.
>> I know.
I know.
>> Hell, we all know it. Ballard's gone too far. Yes, he has. putting up a toll gate, deciding who's to pay and who ain't.
>> If he can get away with what he done to Merl, he can do whatever the hell he wants. It's time we all woke up.
>> I know you're all real busy, so I'll get right to the point. I'm inviting you to ride with me against Henry Ballard.
>> You know what Ballard did to Billy and your horse's sure was bad. Now, I like to help, but this ain't my coral. You're >> right, Julie. It ain't your coral. that there'll come a time when this tollgate is just the start of things and Bow decides to box you in some more. Maybe take some of your land or cut you off from water like he did Carrie Sartin.
>> That's right. I can >> then you'll come and say, "Look here, Merl. Look what Ballard's doing. I need your support." And I could say to you, Dewey, it ain't my quarrel. I run a horse farm. I live over there. 2-hour ride.
>> Mhm.
>> But until statehood comes along, all we got is ballots law.
>> That's right. That's right.
>> And there no future in it.
>> And I did not come 1500 miles to tolerate that.
>> I ain't looking for a shootout.
>> Well, neither is Merl.
>> That's right.
>> Overpower them with numbers. That's the idea. Scare them into doing right. Folks like you and me coming after them. No bloodshed.
>> What if he runs?
>> Let him. We'll follow till we find him.
>> Damn right.
>> How long will it take?
>> Maybe a day, maybe two, maybe longer. I don't care. I'll provide the horses and grub. As long as it takes.
>> It takes money, Marl.
>> My spread's for sale. Shelby and I worked out a deal. Every man jack of you gets $15 a month for as long as it takes to bring that man in alive and working in these staples.
>> Pearl means business. I'm for us. I'm sick of Ballard beating us.
>> I know men are right against him.
>> Bring him along. Now, if you don't want to go, it's okay with me. I'm going after Ballard anyway.
>> And if you don't want to go on principal and go for money because I pay cash on the barrel head.
Amen.
[music] >> He ain't coming. Who's he going to come with?
>> Well, he's got Woody and an engine.
[laughter] He shows he goes home in a pine box.
Hey, hold up there.
[screaming] Hey. Hey, bro.
Come back here.
Mr. Ballad, it's written and he's got a whole army with him. Got 1009 with him.
Mr. Ballad, get out of here. Go. Get him up in the [ __ ] house. Tell him to get these guns on. Hurry up.
Get the hell out of my way. Get back here. Get back here. [music] Get back.
Where you going?
[bell] >> See, I'm here.
>> Come on. Come on, son. Come on now. Get up there. Hello.
>> Anything?
>> Nothing. Merl Slater and Ollie.
>> I tailed it.
Any man who treats an animal that way, he don't deserve a stable. Wouldn't you say, Billy?
Get the other animals out and burn it.
[music] >> [music] >> Do >> [music] >> Heat. Heat.
>> [music] >> Get out.
>> There [music] you go.
>> What have you done?
>> There you go.
>> That'll do.
>> Ballard's keep.
>> Ma'am, where's Ballard?
>> I don't know.
Because of what your boss did, my law is now the law.
If you hide him or help him in any way, I'll burn you out.
>> Do you understand?
>> Whatever's done, men did.
>> Where's he going?
>> I don't know.
>> Don't lie.
>> Maybe headed for Cheyenne.
>> That's a long hall.
He's got to stop somewhere, doesn't he?
>> Please don't burn me out. I've got nowhere else to go.
Maybe headed for medicine ball.
>> Medicine ball. Who does he know in medicine ball?
>> Cubeller. His brother-in-law owns a feed store there.
>> We leave for medicine ball tonight.
There's some crap. Ah, [music] Ballard. Henry Ballard, you in there?
Come out.
>> Get off my property, Manny.
>> Check inside.
>> We ain't been introduced. How come you know my name?
>> I don't want no trouble.
>> You've been hiding a fugitive. That's a crime according to my law. Where is he?
>> Gone.
>> Where did he go?
>> I got nothing to do with your grudge against Henry.
>> Where and when did he go?
>> Come on.
While you're thinking about it, Billy, light me some fire.
I'll ask you one more time.
>> Where and when did he go?
>> You get the hell off my property. Ready?
>> Back where you come from. You ride with Crow.
on here.
>> If I knew where he was, I'd hide him despite you. Would you >> burn him?
Come on.
Fire.
Hey, >> [music] >> I'm looking for a man in Henry Ballard.
You know him?
>> Is there a printer around? I got a job for him. I pay cash.
Pardon me, ma'am.
Miss, >> you a printer?
>> Yes, sir. I do print.
>> This is what I need printed. 200 copies.
How much?
>> $10.
>> I'll give you 15.
I need it right away.
I'll see what I can do.
>> Big. As big as you can make it.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Yes, that's what I do. Big always.
>> As I said before, I'm looking for a man named Henry Ballard who cheated me out of my horses, injured him bad, and beat up my man. If you hide him or help him in any way, I'll burn you out.
[music] I, Merl Reading, by authority [music] inbornne in me as a free man living in a free territory, demand that Henry Ballard, within 7 [music] days of receiving this notice, bring to my stables the horses you took.
Rune and fatten them with your own hands to my stables.
>> [music] >> If the injuries cause nothing [music] to you $50 signal ready the horses you >> [music] >> There you go.
>> Oh, you're getting down.
>> Hey any quicker than he has to find a new job.
>> All right, men. Let's mount up.
>> You better leave some men at Reading's place. Sharon Ballard ain't going there.
He went to his brother-in-law's house.
>> Reading finds Henry. He's sure as hell coming back.
>> Maybe, but I ain't split my men. I need all I got. You expect me to get ready?
Let's go, men.
Terrible situation, judge. I tried to control it as best I could. Just no turning.
You know, he tried to pay me for my work.
I wouldn't take his money.
>> No. There's a funny smell around here.
Governor, I think you should look at this.
>> Henry Ballard.
>> Mhm.
>> Where is he? And he was at the Waynewright Hotel. He keeps moving.
Burl ready.
>> He's outside of town somewhere.
>> Clear him out.
>> I can't. I got a 100 men on escort duty.
So go with what you got. And what I've got is 10 men. Sir Reading's got 40 50 guns and Crow. Every out of work drifter in Cheyenne is signing on with him. So I need at least a company. Great.
Just what we need with a statehood delegation coming in from Washington.
What's the attorney general doing in all this?
>> Mr. Medaf sent Reading's petition back to Judge Wilkins. And >> well, uh, Wilkins kind of works for Ballard is what it comes down to. Sir got shares in his association. I hear this is what caused the trouble.
Ballard don't sing our song on statehood.
>> I don't care where he stands. He's entitled to protection until the matters cleared up. Tell I want to see him on Reading's petition.
>> Yes, sir. It's a mess.
>> When do your troops get back?
>> Two, three days. I Ballard.
Tell him we can't guarantee his safety.
Tell him he's on his own. Tell him for his own good he ought to leave Cheyenne.
>> Is there anything you can do to calm things down?
>> About the only way to calm Reading down is to shoot him down.
Follow the sheriff. Let me know where he camps.
>> [music] >> Wake up, sheriff.
Strip him.
>> Now quit, Merl.
You've gone too far.
>> Far enough when [music] I get satisfaction. Sheriff, >> no animal's worth what you're doing. in your opinion. [music] >> Well, you're going to jail for torching Ballard's bread.
>> Long as he's in there with me. You get this back as soon as I find him.
>> Remember me, coward?
>> Remember me?
[cough] [clears throat] Damn.
You stinking savage.
Hey.
[music] >> You all seen what happened.
[music] Slater drew first and he was going to shoot Billy in the back. You all seen it, right, Sheriff? Slater moved, but Billy had the upper hand.
>> Slater drew first.
>> Right.
[music] >> Slater moved first.
>> You all heard the sheriff. Don't forget what he said.
>> Damn it.
>> Holly. Holly, listen to me. You got to get to Judge Wilkins. Tell him that Reading shot Slater and he burned down Ballard's barn. Tell him to file charges. Go on. Go on. Get going.
[applause] >> I know when the statehood delegation arrives, we will all show them the hospitality and friendliness that Wyoming people are known for.
We are not separate ranchers, farmers, and settlers of the Wyoming territory, but united today as citizens of the future great state of Wyoming.
[cheering] Yeah.
>> Where's still hold up in the hotel, sir? refuses to leave town. Do I have that [music] correct, Colonel?
>> Yes, I posted two soldiers with him.
That's the best I could do.
>> Just a matter of time before Reading finds him.
>> This has gone too far. Jailing who?
>> Thanks for your support.
>> Jail who? Governor Ballard. No more charges.
>> Any charge you won't. Any charge you'll agree to. Disturbing the peace. See if he'll buy it. He wants protection. Jail is the safest place for him. Thank you, Colonel. find ready to tell him if he quits going after Ballard that the attorney general will reopen his case.
>> I don't know, Governor. People are upset.
>> Delegation arrives in 2 days. I want the streets clear.
>> Yes, sir.
>> Amnesty for what Reading's done. If he quits going after Boward, put it on paper, Colonel. Find him and give it to him. This is nonsense. Statehood of Wyoming will not be held up by a piss fight over two horses and a Crow Indian.
Understand me? I want this settled now.
You understand?
>> Governor, let's get a picture. You know the lady? Yes, I do.
>> All right, smile everybody.
Great.
>> Thank you for coming, everyone. Let's go eat.
Billy.
Billy, come with me.
Woody, go on around. We'll catch up later.
Heat.
[music] Heat.
Hold your fire.
Hold your fire.
[music] Hold your fire. Don't shoot.
Hold [music] your fire.
Hold your fire.
I'm sorry.
It's getting so I don't recognize none of these guys anymore.
>> Yeah.
I didn't think it out.
I should have known you draw fire coming in out of nowhere.
It was wrong to kill Slater [music] for what he did to us.
And I still [music] can't believe Gore is dead, Billy.
I keep hoping a miracle happened and she'll come back to life.
God forgive me for [music] let her go.
I'm coming after you anyway, old man.
[music] I'm coming.
[snorts] What day do you suppose it is?
I don't know.
>> Riders coming.
Governor wants to make a deal.
>> I'm listening.
>> You lay down your arms, come in peaceibly, he'll reopen your case against Ballard. You do this, we'll drop all charges against you.
>> Where's Ballard?
>> He's going to jail for disturbing the peace.
>> Maybe your boss don't read too good. I don't want him in jail. I want him working on my stables. Now, that's something I can't negotiate. Governor promises a hearing right away.
>> And if I say no, >> well, then I go after you with the army and you lose.
Billy's part of this. I got to talk it over with him.
They say they'll drop the charges if you come in.
>> I don't trust them.
That's what they say.
Rivers are not to be trusted. Neither are white men's armies. It's a trick.
Maybe you decide for you.
Now decide for me.
Take care, my brother.
>> You think so?
>> We'll see each other again. Just not on this road.
>> Goodbye, little brother. Goodbye, Billy.
Goodbye.
[music] [music] >> [music] [music] >> Oh yeah.
Yeah.
You got that.
Hold it. Hold it. Hold it. Stop the work. Take it outside, boys. I got to hear him to run. Heard it.
>> Here he Wyoming is now in session. The Honorable Joe B. Toiver presiding. Judge, it is a real >> Ballard. This is a legal hearing and you will get your chance to be heard when you are addressed. Be seated. Reading and Ballard, remain standing.
>> Everybody take your seats.
>> Raise your right hands. Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth? Nothing but the truth. So help you God.
>> Yes, sir. Yes, sir.
>> Please be seated. Are all the parties in this dispute here?
>> Oh, but Billy Redwood.
>> Where's Billy Redwood?
>> He left Cheyenne, your honor. He refused the offer of amnesty.
>> Murdering bastard. Keep your mouth shut or I will have you jailed for contempt.
>> Want to get to the bottom of this in two hours or less of my time? Now, Mr. Re, >> this is your petition.
>> Do you wish to change any of it?
>> Is that the one for my wife?
>> Yes.
>> No.
>> Will you accept cash for the horses?
>> No. I accept what the words say.
>> Since Billy Redwood has refused amnesty, you may drop him from this petition.
>> Suit stands the way it's written. So be it.
>> Mr. Ballard, let's start with you.
What's your side of this mess?
>> Well, your honor, this uh troublemaker read and come on my land on his way to Casper to sell some horses. And I made a neighborly offer that he could pass pay me $10. Well, he had a near fit. Said he didn't have no $10. Now, still trying to be helpful. I told him, >> "Sir, >> I can understand you from over there."
uh that if he'd just leave two of his animals when he came back, he could pay me, pick them up, it'd be all right. Uh and he left me uh two sway back old bones, you know. And when he did come to get them, he said, "These are not my horses." I said, "Of course they are."
He cursed me and left. Now, that's all there was to it. You can ask Olly cuz he was right there. And poor old Slater.
>> Slater ain't part of this hearing, Valley. Now, even before we hear Reading's side of the story, I got to tell you, I don't believe the part about the two sway back old bones.
>> Oh, but that's what there was.
>> Ain't no dealer I know would travel a 100 miles, sell a $5 nag.
>> I know horse.
>> So do I.
Now [clears throat] you put up a toll gate on your property.
>> It's my land.
>> Do Reading know what it cost him $10 for the crossing?
>> Whether he did or not is nothing to me.
>> You charge everybody the same $10 to come and go.
>> You bet.
>> You're under oath, Mr. Ballard.
Some do and some don't. Is that it?
>> Well, I am a cattle rancher. I have >> Judge Wilkins over in Rollins just filed two counts of murder and one count of insurrection against me already.
>> Anything you want on your property, including a damn tollgate. Excuse me, gentlemen. Would you take it outside of my courtroom, please?
>> Sorry, Dad. Apologies.
>> Thank you.
Although putting up a toll gate to my mind is a hostile act.
And if it happened to me in my travels, you would feel the lash of my tongue. He says the governor doesn't have the power to grant amnesty for murder. Murder?
What murder? A rancher's wife named Daisy Math is one of Ballard's menlater Morrison.
>> What's relevant here is the law. I judge cases on law. Law is the king with me.
Cuz if it wasn't, this territory, even if it becomes a state, wouldn't be fit for prairie dog.
[clears throat] >> Now, reading, what's your story?
>> He's lying.
Hold it.
>> Hold it.
>> Order in this courtroom. Please take your seats.
>> Continue.
>> Wilkins claims Freddy shot them both and burned down Ballard's bar. He says all this happened before the amnesty.
Agreed.
>> Before the amnesty.
>> God damn. We didn't know anything about any shootings. No. Does the governor know about this?
>> I thought I should tell you first. We need to figure out how best to take this to the governor.
>> Come in peaceibly and all charges will be dropped.
Who wrote this? You.
>> No, sir.
I did, sir.
>> You did?
What the hell is he doing writing a legal document?
>> Well, that's the way it just worked out.
Sir, >> he doesn't know the first damn thing about law, much less amnesty.
>> Francis, I've been attending the statehood delegate.
>> You are the attorney general, and you allowed this this him to write an amnesty agreement, >> sir. There was no one else. If I did not do it, it was not going to get done. So, >> do you realize the position you've put me in, Hoy? I am on public record for giving murder.
>> We were unaware of that at the time.
Sir, when did these murders happen?
>> As near as we can figure, sir. A couple of days before Reading's amnesty.
>> So, we covered him. Is that what you're saying?
>> Well, that's a legal question. If a legal mind had prepared the amnesty, we wouldn't be an illegal mess.
>> You're right, sir. This is all your fault, Hoy. Get Judge Toiver.
>> Well, he's in court right now.
>> I would not advise bothering Judge Oliver right now, sir.
>> Get him anyway.
Now.
>> Yes, sir.
And them horses were promised to me. I went to Casper to pick them up, but was told that Merl didn't bring them. That surprised me. Merl, he don't do business that way. Merl gives you his word.
That's it.
>> What in your judgment was the value of these horses?
>> They was match stallions, your honor. I was willing to pay $200 each for them.
>> You ever seen them before?
>> Yeah. when they was yearlings.
>> You're dismissed.
>> Thank you, your honor. [clears throat] >> Anyone else have an opinion in this matter? Anyone?
>> All right, Mr. Reading, you will have a guard with you at all times until this case is over.
>> I don't need a guard, your honor.
>> There's angry people all over Cheyenne about this business. You can either have a guard or you can share a cell with Mr. Ballard. It's up to you.
>> I'll take the guard. Hearing is journal.
>> That's everything, Mr. Man. We all set already.
[screaming] I can't sit here.
Right there.
>> You know, all this is over two horses.
Two horses and and I think >> three maybe four people dead. Oh no.
This is madness. Excuse me. And this man reading was threatening to burn down the Wayne Wright Hotel. This place is not ready to be estate. I can tell you that right now.
>> We can talk all night long, but the people want something done.
>> Something will be done, Conrad, but it's got to be according to the law.
>> The question is, can Reading's amnesty be revoked?
>> He signed an executive agreement forgiving a man for something he'd already done, and he put a date on it.
>> I gave my word to honor it. But if Reading violates the terms of his amnesty, you can revoke it and try him for murder.
>> But you've got to do it legal. If he doesn't violate his amnesty, you got a problem. You got to prove in court what you knew when it was granted. In the meantime, gentlemen, if you will excuse me, I got to go pee.
>> I think it's time for me to retire, Francis. Thank you.
>> Good evening, H. Colonel.
>> Small thing, Governor, if you don't mind. Good night, gentle. Tomorrow.
>> Good night. coming up.
>> Ballard wants to see you. [laughter] >> No, not with a trial coming up.
>> Well, if he feels wrong, sir. He does own a lot of land. Just a a word, sir.
He ain't going to plead his case. Just a word. A moment no more. Governor, >> show him in.
>> Yes, sir.
Mr. Ballard, the governor will see you now.
Sir, this is uh Henry Ballard.
Mr. Powell, what the hell is going on here? You got a murder running loose in Cheyenne. Free as a J-bird. I ain't done nothing. And I'm locked away in jail.
Now I'm one of the biggest cattlemen in this territory. I ain't getting no respect. I ain't getting no protection.
Now you're talking about statehood for this 10horn shanty ain't worth a [ __ ] city. To hell with that. Where's my protection? Where is the army?
We don't have an army.
>> What? The army we have is on escort duty.
Protecting the folks from Washington.
Coming here to take this tinhorn shanty ain't worth a [ __ ] city and turn it into the capital of the state of Wyoming.
under the circumstances. You can hight tail it out of town and take your chances on the road, which would suit me fine, or you can cool your ass in jail until things blow over. Either way, >> get Yeah, >> Conrad.
>> Well, that wraps up a good productive day.
He can't just go in somebody's house and burn down their barn. He can't just ride up and shoot somebody's wife. What?
Where's the army? That's what I want to know. Where's the army? You're just going around.
>> You need to be stopped.
Go.
Billy wants to know how the trial is going. Judge ain't decided yet. How is it for you?
It's back for us. If we get caught, they'll hang us. Billy wants to know if you will join us.
>> I'm keeping after Ballard.
>> I better spell it out for him.
[music] Take this to him.
>> Good luck, friend.
Judge, how does this affect the amnesty?
I don't know how it will go with me, but if I lose, God willing, I have the strength to continue my fight. And with your help and friendship, I will. Freing wrote this means he intends to break his part of the agreement and continue his fight with Ballard.
You can revoke the amnesty.
>> I say we arrest him and announce it to the crowd. That'll be the end of it.
>> There's a trial coming up, Mr. Metaf in which you as chief legal officer of this territory will have to consider all of the facts including murder and armed insurrection and not just part of it.
That will be the end of it.
Sir, somebody owes you an apology.
old man. Remember that.
[clears throat] >> Let's get on with this. The engine moved first. I seen it with my two eyes. Billy stalked Slater with a knife while Slater was on the ground. Reading watching all the time, he didn't say a word. Didn't say, "Hold on, Billy Redwood. What? What are you going to do? What are you up to?" See, Reading knew that it was Slater who beat up the Indian. It was Slater who got in the fight with Woody on the day that Reading's wife was killed. So when Slater moved to defend himself, Merl shot him dead.
It's premeditated murder.
>> They come riding up all of a sudden, >> the engine out front and I winged the crow pretty good and then then for no reasoning started firing and then Daisy, she uh God have mercy on her. She uh [gasps] she heard the shooting and then she came running out to protect me [snorts] and and then that that man that man shot her.
I didn't know nothing about a coral.
[sighs] All I know is Daisy and me had nothing to do with it.
And now she's gone.
>> I'm sorry for your wife, >> but you're a liar, >> Mr. Reading. I have here in my hand a letter which may seem familiar to you.
>> Did you write this letter to Billy Redwood?
>> Yes, I did.
>> Would you do me the favor, sir, please, of reading it aloud to the jury?
if you like.
Dear Billy, I'm sorry I got you into this. Doesn't look good for you. The judge says you have no claim because you didn't show up. I don't know how it will go with me, but if I lose, God willing, I have the strength to continue my fight. And with your help and friendship, I will. With your help and friendship, I will. Will what?
Continue to burn people's barns and property. Continue to murder innocent people. Is that what you're saying?
>> No, that's not what I mean.
I said I will continue the fight against Ballard and I will, but I didn't say how. And I never said I'd done everything right.
And I take responsibility for that.
But Grady is lying when he says I killed his wife. And the sheriff is lying about how I killed Slater. I didn't go looking to kill anybody.
It's justice I'm looking for and it's justice I'll get. I'll track it as long as I'm breathing and even if it cost me my life.
[music] >> [music] >> here. He hear the Court of Territory Wyoming is now in session. The Honorable Joby Tower presiding.
>> Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, have you reached a verdict?
>> We have, you honor.
Thank you, Miss Hayden.
Merl reading, please rise. Mr. Former, >> on the charge of killing Slater Morrison, we find the defendant Merl Red not guilty.
On the charge of two counts of armed insurrection and the killing of Daisy Matthysse, we find the defendant Merl Ren guilty as charged.
Order.
>> Thank you, Mr. Foreman. Mo Reading.
Henry Ballard, please approach the bans.
>> We got him. I told you. We did him.
>> How you like this, Justice boy?
>> Wipe that smile off your face, Mr. Ballard. This is serious business.
You first. Mr. Bow. A petition of grievance against you by Mr. Reading has been upheld. You are to with your own hands restore the health and good condition of the two horses left in your care by Merl Reading. Further, in your testimony to this court, you lied when you described the condition of the horses as swaybacked old bones. Nothing could be further from the truth as testified by those who knew the value of the horses. Lying under oath is a serious offense.
I [snorts] therefore sentence you to two years in jail for perjury. Three months of which will be spent working in rural Ren stables.
>> Get your order.
>> Merl reading.
You have been found guilty of armed insurrection and murder. Do you have anything to say before this court passes judgment upon you?
>> I took the [music] law into my own hands.
I did it because there was none in Rollins.
I wrote my own law, but I didn't create it.
I used what [music] was there all along.
[snorts] In my mind, that law was there before we were born.
I am sorry for Daisy Matthysse. When we rode off, we never knew she'd been shot.
For my partner, I beg her [music] husband's forgiveness.
I'm a horse trader, your honor. All I was doing was taking my horses to market.
That's it.
You wanted a justice, [music] you got justice coming to you.
>> Ready.
>> The horses misused by Henry Ballard will [music] be restored to their former condition and to your satisfaction.
Following that pain, >> it is the sentence [music] of this court that you be taken to a place of execution and hang by the [music] neck until you are dead.
>> [screaming] >> And may God have mercy on your soul.
>> [music] >> Court is >> journ. Die, you son of a [ __ ] Die.
He's coming.
There you go.
Okay.
Okay.
Quit.
Heat.
[music] [music] Heat.
[music] >> [music] >> Can I just take a moment with my son?
>> Yeah.
>> Hey, come on now.
You're the man of the house. Come on.
[sighs] >> Your mother and I will always be with you. You're just going to have to make it on your own for a while.
>> Why are they doing this to you, Paul?
>> Two people died of me, chasing ballad.
Somebody's got to pay.
>> But why? You didn't kill nobody.
>> I killed Slater. All right. But I didn't kill Daisy. It's important to me that you know I didn't. Her husband must have shot her by mistake.
>> [snorts] >> But I caused it.
>> Did you see the horses?
How do they look?
>> Great.
[snorts] >> You promise me something, son.
>> Sure, Bob.
>> Don't ever settle.
>> I'll never settle. Never. They're the best two you and Billy ever raised.
>> A lot of pride in those stallions.
Come from a great line you can build on.
So, how much money you got in the bank?
>> Maybe $200.
>> Well, you got the rest of the money Shelby owes.
>> He's a good man. You can trust him.
He'll take good care of you. Shel Shelby says there there's we could bust out.
There's a lot of folks in town and they're talking about >> it's time to put an end to it.
>> There's there's still time we could do it again.
>> Cage, they'd find me sooner or later. I don't want any more killing in my name.
Do you understand?
Now listen to me. Somebody steps on your rights, go after them. Never give up.
Never. [snorts] Just be smarter than I was.
All right.
>> Come on. Let's go look at the horses.
>> Mr. Ready, here are your horses.
Well, sir, >> these are my horses.
>> Beautiful animals, wouldn't you say, judge?
>> You want them? You got them. Hey, you burning hell. You son of a [ __ ] You got nothing for me.
>> You did what I said you'd do.
>> You got nothing. Nothing. Nothing.
That's all you got. Nothing. I get what he said anyway.
[snorts] Heat. Heat.
[snorts] [music] [music] [music] [music] cigar.
[sighs] I worry [panting and gasps] about you and me, Judge Wilkins. Swear to God, I do. Cuz if this country gets ruined, it'll be ruined by people like you and me. This is a territory of unimportant people. Most folks around here can't even write their name.
You and me.
We're the important people.
Trouble is there's not enough of us important people to go around.
We're spread thin. So sometimes important things get ignored or don't get said.
Like take care of the little fella.
See to it that he don't get ignored or cheated or insulted. Make sure that his dignity does not get trampled on. Now you're feeling bad right now. And by God, you ought to see as what just happened to a decent man.
Merl reading did not fail the law.
Law failed Merl.
Just so you'll know who's behind it.
This is a copy of a letter that I wrote to the governor asking that a committee be called to evaluate your fitness as a sitting judge.
It is my earnest hope and desire that that committee finds you wanting and that articles of impeachment be drawn to remove you from the bench. I'm doing this out in the open. Everything's on the table up and up so you'll know who the some [ __ ] is that is gunning for your ass. It's me, the honorable Joby Taliviver.
Well, we'll close, judge. Out of respect for the condemned man. For you, judge.
I'm willing to make an exception.
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