Ep 1. The Magnificent Bribe

Mr. Lucky is an American television series that aired from 1959 to 1960 on CBS. Starring John Vivyan as a suave gambler named Mr. Lucky, the show followed his adventures as he ran his illegal gambling establishment aboard a luxury yacht called the Fortuna II. In each episode, Mr. Lucky found himself in new and exciting situations, often involving dangerous criminals and high-stakes gambling.

In the pilot episode, titled "The Magnificent Bribe," Mr. Lucky is approached by a young woman named Jean King who is seeking his help in retrieving some incriminating letters. Jean explains that the letters were written by her late father, a former politician who was embroiled in a scandal before his death. The letters reveal the names of several corrupt public officials who were involved in the scandal, and Jean fears that they will fall into the wrong hands.

At first, Mr. Lucky is hesitant to get involved. He's a gambler, not a detective or a thief. But Jean is persuasive, and Mr. Lucky finally agrees to help her. He enlists the help of his friend Lieutenant Rovacs, a police detective, and together they come up with a plan to retrieve the letters.

Their plan involves bribing a corrupt police officer named Sergeant Sloane. They offer him a bribe of $10,000 to steal the letters from a safe in the police station. Sloane agrees to the deal, and Mr. Lucky and Rovacs give him the money and wait for him to return with the letters.

But things don't go according to plan. Sloane double-crosses them and takes the money without delivering the letters. Mr. Lucky and Rovacs are left with nothing, and Jean is still in danger. They come up with another plan, this time involving a high-stakes poker game and a fake bribe.

Their plan works, and they are finally able to retrieve the letters. But Sloane is still on their tail, and they are forced to make a daring escape. In the end, Jean is safe and the corrupt officials are brought to justice.

"The Magnificent Bribe" is a classic example of the type of thrilling and suspenseful stories that Mr. Lucky is known for. The episode is full of twists and turns, and the audience is kept guessing until the very end. John Vivyan shines in the role of Mr. Lucky, bringing his trademark charm and suavity to the character. The other cast members, including Ross Martin as Lieutenant Rovacs and Pippa Scott as Jean King, also give strong performances.

Overall, "The Magnificent Bribe" is a great introduction to the world of Mr. Lucky. It's a fun and exciting romp through the world of high-stakes gambling and dangerous criminal enterprises. Fans of classic television will love this show, and newcomers will quickly become hooked.