Chester's Dilemma: Gunsmoke (January 31, 1960)

“Chester's Dilemma” is an episode of Gunsmoke, the old-time radio show, first broadcast January 31, 1960. Listen free on Stupid Potato.

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What happens

Chester seems distracted and listless, neglecting his duties at the marshal's office while becoming oddly attentive to Edna, a young woman working at the general store who dreams of San Francisco. When Doc observes Chester's unusual behavior—his blank expression, lack of focus, and failure to perform his regular tasks—he diagnoses the problem as ingratitude from Matt Dillon, suggesting Chester may be thinking about leaving Dodge City altogether.

Dodge City, Kansas—the general store, marshal's office, and boardwalk

Characters: Matt Dillon, Chester Proudfoot, Doc, Kitty, Edna, Mr. Jonas

Listen for: Chester's troubled demeanor and Doc's blunt assessment of what's driving him away from his work; Edna's conversation with Chester about the train and her interest in those wanted posters

Written from the episode itself; it never gives away the ending. Every recording is remastered for the stream: cleaned of rumble, hiss and mains hum (and the old TV whine where we found it), then levelled in two passes to steady broadcast loudness, so one show is never quieter than the next.