by Hal Erickson
synopsis
A decidedly pre-All in the Family Carroll O'Connor stars as freight line owner Tom Slayden. Using underhanded and monopolistic tactics, Slayden has managed to crown himself the unofficial boss of Virginia City. The Cartwrights become mixed up with the ruthlessly ambitious Slayden when one of his henchmen shoots Joe Cartwright in the back for "trespassing." Also in the cast are Judee Morton as Karen Slayden, Denver Pyle as the Sheriff, Phil Ober as Oliver, Chris Alcaide as Gus, William Tannen as Duran, and Roy Engel as the Doctor. Co-scripted by actor (and occasional Bonanza supporting player) Leo Gordon, with Paul Leslie Piel, "The Boss" originally aired on May 19, 1963.
