warmly sentimental tale author waltons someone pitch material me would probably reject maudlin dramatization manages tear without expected embarrassment one s better lovable hayseeds arthur hunnicutt appeal put consummate use mountain man doggedly faithful loyal hunting hound fates tied together inseparably human bond good see subtle environmental message here critters go heaven condemn poor devil merely follows instinct order stay alive deceit kingdom animals yet cruelly often treat them oddly satisfying episode confirms important message