I agree with the last reviewer, there was a bit of comedy at work here, albeit dark comedy, as Barnaby has no choice but to protect a businessman (played by Denver Pyle), pretending to be his brother. Buddy Ebsen had to resort to acting 101 and then some, and is fun to watch.
Pyle plays Stayley Kircher, coming very close to getting killed, and while he's in the hospital, Barnaby plays the good brother who will oversee his business operations. Does this now make Barnaby a target?
Series writer Robert W. Lenski drew up some terrific characters, and with no surprise, having also mastered numerous episodes for CANNON and MANNIX. Great direction from Alf Kjellin, also working on HAWAII FIVE O at the time. The accident scene involving Stayley has a Five O feel right off the bat.
Denver Pyle is always memorable and makes a solid team with Buddy Ebsen. Pyle was a regular on GUNSMOKE, best known as Uncle Jesse on the DUKES OF HAZZARD. Two excellent actresses are also featured; Nina Foch as Myra, making another series apprearance and Madge Redmond, very popular on tv commercials for years.
An original episode for sure, and just who is behind all the traps? It's fun guessing. SEASON 4 EPISODE 24 remastered CBS dvd box set.