Don't be fooled: it's not the corny cow-stealing plot that's the main point of this episode, but the conflict between Andy and the "authorities." This was the second episode in which Mayor Stoner (Parley Baer) appeared, and the writers seemed intent on establishing him as a dogged antagonist to Andy and Barney. The conflict is quite effective here, as Stoner scoffs at Andy's common sense policing skills in uncovering a cow thief and hires a big city police investigator to help in the case. Barney is shown at his sycophantic, self-serving, braggadocio best as he shamelessly sucks up to the investigator. There is a very touching scene toward the end between Andy and Barney after Andy has just been rebuffed and abandoned by the mayor and investigator. This episode is special in that it shows Barney at his best (and worst), and solidifies the bond between Andy and Barney in a more serious and poignant way than usual. Also, listen for a funny bit about a road safety slogan Barney thought up: "Walk on the left side after dark, and you won't wind up playing a harp."