If you thought this episode was icky, maybe Doc Adams needs to examine you to see if you have a heart! Yes, it was overly dramatic at times and maybe a little overacted, too, but it was (and is) quality TV. Many, many Gunsmoke episodes tugged at the heartstrings by showing just how hard life could be in the old west. We weren't given much of the mother or father's stories in this episode, but no doubt there were real life circumstances of orphaned children such as these triplets. It is a very believable story line.
The Mrs. Roniger character was acted to perfection (I would have loved to see more of Harry Carey, Jr).
Denver Pyle is convincing as the judge. Here there is no sign of Briscoe Darlin. As the judge, he speaks in a formal, educated manner.
Festus was understandably excited and happy to be a part of the joyous occasion. Milburn Stone did rant and rave a lot, but the passion he displayed was also understandable.
I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes with Miss Kitty. My favorite scene of the episode was the one where she handed the baby to Marshal Dillon - the look on her face when she looked at him spoke volumes.