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Investigating a mine cave-in, Joe Cartwright finds his friend Seth Pruitt (Richard Rust standing over the dead body of Seth's future father-in-law. Admitting to murder, Seth explains that the dead man suffered extensive injuries in the cave-in, and begged to be killed rather than live out his life as a cripple. Seth then swears Joe to secrecy, out of respect for the feelings of Seth's intended bride Sara (Nancy Rennick). Throughout the rest of the episode, Joe agonizes over his promise to Seth, wondering if his decision to remain silent is morally defensible. A surprise ending caps Peter Packer's riveting teleplay. Originally telecast November 17, 1963, "The Quality of Mercy" was one of Michael Landon's favorite Bonanza episodes.