Earp's new deputy, Bat Masterson, is too eager to use his gun so Earp has been trying to emphasize that shooting someone is a last resort. He sends Hal and Bat to arrest the drunk Billy Jordan who is shooting up the Long Branch. Hal approaches Billy front the front realizing his gun is now empty. Bat comes in through a different entrance behind Billy and only sees Billy threatening to shoot Hal. He shoots Billy in the back not realizing billy's gun is empty. Eaveryone is angry with Bat as they realize he is a hothead. Billy is seriously wounded and Dr. McCarty doesn't have the skill to remove the bullet which near his heart and nicked a rib. Earp sends a wire to Fort Dodge asking them to send Dr. Perkins, a surgeon. Billy's family arrives wanting Bat's life if Billy dies. Earp sends the shunned Bat to meet the surgeon with a fresh horse. When he and Bat arrive at McCarty's office, the Jordans take Bat captive. Earp with his deputies were too late to prevent it so Earp tries to talk the Jordans down. Luckily Dr. Perkins comes out to say Billy will survive. Bat is released and Earp suggest he go apologize to Billy.
—Anonymous