Tread Perilously -- Nero Wolfe (1959): Count The Man Down

Tread Perilously enters Pilot Season with the unsold 1959 Nero Wolfe pilot, "Count the Man Down." When Nero Wolfe receives a monthly expense bill totaling $4000.92, he tells Archie Goodwin to alert the media with this proclamation: a rocket scientist who died six days prior was murdered. The scientist's wife and associates quickly become suspects, but they also want to know who hired Wolfe to solve the crime. While Archie visits a local aerospace firm, Wolfe nurses his cold. Will everything come out in an expansive parlor scene and can Wolfe get the suspects to pony up for his services? Also, will Archie figure out how Wolfe knew about the scientist? Erik reveals the origin of his fascination with failure states. Justin suggests it also contributes to his Murder Brunette thing. William Shatner genuinely proves his abilities as an actor thanks to an unfortunate choice as Archie Goodwin. Star Kurt Kasznar proves to be a stellar Wolfe. Justin's love of a more recent Nero Wolfe series becomes a recurring topic. The Trivial Time Traveler ends up with a new mission. Bigfoot considers a presidential run. The world's best black & white beer makes its debut. Robert Redford enters the chat in a surprising way and The Big Book of Nazi Science derails everything.