The Big Con

Originally Aired: November 13, 1960 Gunsmoke #449, "The Big Con," In this tense episode, a frantic gambler named Hook rushes into the Dodge City bank at opening time with an unusual request. With Marshal Matt Dillon and Chester looking on, Hook asks banker Mr. Pap for an immediate loan of twenty thousand dollars, using his poker hand as collateral. He claims to be in the middle of a high-stakes game at the Lady Gay saloon with forty thousand dollars in the pot, and he needs more money to stay in. Two other players, Shainways and Bordon, accompany him to ensure the cards aren't switched. Despite Matt's reservations, the excited banker examines Hook's four aces and agrees to the risky loan, seeing it as a sure thing that will net the bank a quick two thousand dollar profit. Matt reluctantly agrees to protect the money as the group returns to the card game, but disaster strikes when Hook's four aces lose to Shainways' straight flush. The devastated Mr. Pap faces financial ruin, having gambled with depositors' money. Doc Adams arrives and recognizes the scheme from a similar con he heard about years ago in New Orleans, raising Matt's suspicions that Hook and his confederates have deliberately swindled the bank in an elaborate setup.