Here's why:
* No official record: There's no central database tracking every line spoken by John Wayne in his films.
* Various interpretations: "Pilgrim" can have different connotations depending on the context. It might be used as a term of address, a sarcastic comment, or even a reference to a specific historical figure.
* Subtle variations: Even if we could find a comprehensive list of his lines, identifying every instance of "pilgrim" would require meticulous analysis, potentially leading to debate over what counts.
While we can't give a precise number, it's fair to say that John Wayne likely used the word "pilgrim" several times in his career, particularly in Westerns, where it fits the era and the dialogue.