Bently

I agree with the many reviews complaining that Chester's departure was never noted. It certainly should have at some point. That said, it seems Dennis Weaver took some time to decide to leave and how could he be sure that leaving would end up a smart move? I think the writers, by not stating he was gone, left room for Chester's possible return. Nevertheless, at some point Chester should have been celebrated...maybe in a wrap up, gala, final episode. Oh yeah, that never happened!

I enjoyed this episode where we get to see a more serious side of Chester.

It's a shame that we finally get to see him do some good detective work and all his friends think he's crazy. Then he rides off never to be seen or spoken of again.

Man, I wish this character was on the whole length of the show. What an interesting guy Chester is. I know why Dennis Weaver chose to leave, and it made sense but, I thoroughly enjoyed all his appearances. Thats why I gave it a 10, based solely on his performance. I loved how the writers brought out another facet not normally seen in him, and his exchange with the episode's antagonist on the street was cleverly handled.

This episode wasn't perfect, much of the action in it and the behaviors of some of the characters were somewhat hard to believe but, I'm glad Dennis Weaver's last appearance on the show was more well-rounded than usual.

The accepted answer is that Ned wanted to make life easier for his widow. Maybe Ned was delirious on his deathbed--such a reason is just not rational, especially not in light of the town's mob mentality. That said fact is demonstrated in an early scene.

Thankfully, Ned's decision is not the central focus of the drama. If we do not dwell too long on the reasoning, the episode can be enjoyed for several reasons. First of all, where the widow comes to live. Second, the hired gun's big scene (and it is awful that other comments may have spoiled this). But most important, Dennis Weaver's farewell--another excellent performance as a valedictory.

This is the last episode that the character Mr. Chester Goode was on Gunsmoke. The writers and producers of Gunsmoke never did explain what ever happened to Matt Dillon's best buddy Mr. Chester Goode. Especially disheartening since this character was beloved by so many of the Gunsmoke fans up till this time April 11, 1964.