Frank and Edmund are brothers in this classic, Shakespearean tale of conflict. There are definitely touches of classic brothers Cain and Abel, or Romulus and Remus in this story.
The episode begins with Frank Dano, played by Tom Simcox, and the younger Edmund Dano, played by Tom Skerritt, returning to their parents' farm near Dodge City after their release from a six-year prison sentence for cattle rustling. Their father blames the elder brother for involving Edmund in the illegal activity that was responsible for their imprisonment. Meanwhile, their mother is in failing health.
Throughout the episode, we learn the true nature of each brother.
Simcox makes one of his eight appearances in this episode. He was certainly no stranger to television during this time and for several more years. Skerritt makes his first guest appearance on Gunsmoke here as the younger brother. Although he has quite a long career in both television and films, this appearance takes place relatively early in his acting life.
Other actors familiar to Gunsmoke include Nehemiah Persoff -- who had just appeared a few episodes earlier in the season in "Ten Little Indians," -- as the father; Julie Sommars as a girl that attracts the attention of Edmund; and Gregg Palmer, as a sheriff from another town that finds himself chastised by Matt Dillon. The performances by Simcox and Skerritt really carry this episode, although the supporting cast is good, too.
This episode makes effective use of many of the Dodge City regulars, although this is another of the episodes where they are mostly relegated to smaller roles. Roger Ewing finally shows up again as Thad Greenwood. This is the first episode in some time where the character is present.
While there is a lot going on in this episode, it is all interwoven well, despite an ending that is a bit too tidy. Frank, the older brother, tries to carry the weight that is thrust upon him by others, as well as his own inner turmoil and sense of responsibility. Edmund, on the other hand, is only interested in his own desires and has little concern for how his actions affect others. Some of the other people in their lives cannot -- or will not -- see the difference.
I consider this one of the better Season 11 episodes. There are no "wow!" moments in this story, but the writing and acting are solid.