Which Way Did They Go?

Eve Arden who on the big screen we normally see as the wisecracking best friend of the heroine, plays here a woman who is an early feminist and lecturer who sells books as well as culture. Culture and refinement is something that many western towns like Laredo certainly need and Arden who is a Boston brahmin will see they get it.

But while she's giving her lecture someone breaks the infamous Slaughter gang out of jail and the bank is also robbed.

This particular episode is noted for Arden's scenes with Neville Brand who is probably the cast member most in need of a little polish. The scenes are really a hoot and there are some surprise in store as the Texas Rangers uncover the truth.

After the "Slaughter Gang" robs a bank in San Sabo, the Rangers capture the bandits, and return their booty to the local bank. There, they meet culture-peddling Eve Arden (as Miss Em), who is refused for a bank loan. Ms. Arden impresses Reese (Neville Brand) with her flattery and ladylike manner. Reese, Chad (Peter Brown), and Joe (William Smith) devise a plan to help Arden sell tickets to her lecture on culture.

To sell tickets, a "hot tamale" from the "Silver Slipper" (Rita D'Amico as "Carlotta") is added to the program.

Arden lives this episode up considerably; and, her character's comic duplicity fits the show like a glove. The story, however, doesn't really rise above that of very ordinary episodic television. At the time, Arden's was a rare and welcome screen appearance. Veterans Myron Healey (as Sam Bolt) and Lyle Talbot (as the Sheriff) are other notable additions to the "Laredo" guest cast.

***** Which Way Did They Go? (11/18/65) Leon Benson ~ Eve Arden, Neville Brand, Peter Brown