Paladin and Kwai Chang True knights of the Orient.

 There are very few lovers of Old Western Television that won't remember, "Have Gun Will Travel."  The story about a man who calls himself, "Paladin" after the foremost knights in Charlemagne's court.  Paladin is a gentleman knight.  A true warrior of the old school.  Although during the series that ran from 1957 to 1963 Paladin's true name is never really spoken, only eluded to.  Although it is accepted that his name may have indeed been Will Paladin.  It may be hidden within the card he hands to possible clients during the show.  Embosomed over a White Paladin Chess piece is, "Have Gun Will Travel"  Wire Paladin San Francisco the card became the graphic for the TV series during it's entire run.  

Played by Richard Boone who stated before his death in 1981 that Paladin was the best and finest part he had ever had the pleasure of playing.   Paladin was a Union officer during the Civil War being a graduate of The United States Military Academy at West Point, he was an expert shot and quick draw he became a gun for hire that charges an extremely high fee at 1000 dollars for those who can afford him, and gives his services away for free for the poor who need his help.  Paladin is a true Knight who follows the code. 

An expert in Chinese martial arts, Paladin is seen in a few episodes taking instruction from a Chinese Master.  He is an expert swordsman, a Boxer, and never looses a fight.  Paladin is to the Old West what Author and Lancelot were to Camelot.  A very educated man and a Master Chess player Paladin was also his own Merlin.  Following the path of righteousness and Chivalry Paladin is the kind of Good Guy that made the kids of the era feel good about the Westerns they were watching on TV, Myself included.  Two of my favorite shows of the time were, "Kung Fu" with David Carradine, and "Paladin" with Richard Boone.  I've always wondered what would have happened if Kwai Chang Caine hadn't met Paladin?  It would have been a glorious show.  What Kwai Chang did with his feet and body, Paladin did with his Colt 45 and mind.  What a show it would have been.

Now I will Google old Paladin episodes and dream the good dream.

Peace and Balance,

John