Kevin Kearns

Deadwood's first true elections are nearly here, with the offices of sheriff and mayor to be decided. One of Hearst's Cornish workers is killed at the Gem, leading Swearengen to suspect that the incident was a staged Hearst power play. Ellsworth and Doc Cochran are alarmed by complications involving Alma's pregnancy.

Enabled by Leon, Alma reverts to her bad habits, though she's able to exhibit enough charm to get Merrick to endorse her bank's liquidity during a crisis. Swearengen, still trying to decipher Hearst's intentions, finally finds use for Farnum. Dority rises to Captain Turner's challenge, driving Hearst to the Bella Union, where Bullock hands him an earful.

Aunt Lou's long-lost son, Odell Marchbanks, arrives in Deadwood after a circuitous trip from Liberia, although his mother soon attempts to orchestrate his immediate departure. Bullock and Swearengen contemplate a preemptive strike against Hearst, whose ire has been inflamed overnight. Alma's bad habits lose her Trixie's bank services.

Mac and Stella investigate when they find the body of Paddy Dolan, a longshoreman. (TV-14)