The Case of the Nebulous Nephew

The PM crew definitely started season seven with a BANG. This is by far the best episode of the season. While murder (and the solution of such crime) is usually the main premise of the story, in this case it almost serves as a side-plot to a bigger and more important mystery. It involves a complicated web (woven by the eventual defendant of the homicide) that Perry and his subordinates eventually unravel to great dramatic effect in court, completely overshadowing the murder case. Well-acted, competently directed and suspenseful enough to keep you glued to the edge of your seat. This one is definitely a winner in my book.

The beauty of this episode is that a man recovers his humanity. The two elderly women, incredibly rich, are the targets here, but their unflappable resolve is endearing. They aren't made to be ridiculous as is often the case. There is also a wonderful conclusion to the trial, rather daring for 1963.

This is one of the most interesting episodes in the entire series. An excellent start to season seven.

Ernest Stone and John Brooks have a scheme that will bring them loads of money. What had happened many years ago was the a rich man's son, Caleb Stone III, had a baby which was named Caleb Stone IV. Right after the conception of the baby Caleb the 3rd dies in an airplane accident. The family of the rich man goes all out to prove that the baby was out of wedlock so that the mother and the baby will inherit nothing. And when the mother of the child dies, the baby is placed in a Catholic home for orphans.

Now Ernest Stone bring John Brooks in to say he was a friend of Caleb Stone IV and that Caleb died. Two older ladies Sophia and Nineveh really believe that John Brooks is actually Caleb. So the two older women want to change their wills so that John Brooks, who they think is Caleb Stone IV, will inherit all their fortune.

Since the women are so nice, John Brooks wants out of the scheme. When he talks with Ernest they get into scuffle. Ernest is hit with a butt of a shotgun but seems fine. Later Ernest is found dead and John Brooks is charged with murder and Perry will defend him in court.

This is a very good show. The murder was not the highlight of the show but trying to find the true Caleb became the lead. And it will be a surprise when the viewer learns the whereabouts of Caleb Stone IV. With some great acting by the entire cast this episode is worth the watch. A highly interesting story.

Another reviewer on this forum has correctly stated that the end credits(actors real names) do not match those appearing in this episode . In effect to add to that reviewers contribution, the end credits of the NEBULOUS NEPHEW are in reality the end credits to the episode known as THE CASE OF THE SAD SICILIAN. Both episodes are fine as is the acting in each. The SAD segment of the NEBULOUS NEPHEW relates to Irene Stone-a character played by Kate Manx. This attractive middle thirties woman-fragile in real life-committed SUICDE several years later by taking a sleeping pill overdose. What a waste.

Premier episode of the seventh season, a winner, boasting a rather inventive opening, shades of MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, though a few years away. Also shows the genius of director Arthur Marks, producer of the series.

Once again, an interitance is up for grabs, however with a far different slant. Distant relative Ernest Stone takes John Brooks (Ron Starr) under his deceitful wing, training him on what he should know as adult Caleb Stone IV, heir to a fortune. The real Caleb hasn't been seen since he was a baby, sent off to an orphanage and forgotten. Stone painstakingly prepares Brooks to be the heir apparant, looking like a fairly clever scheme that may just work...

Comes the test; Brooks (or Caleb) faces elder sisters Sophia and Nineveh Stone (Beulah Bondie and Meg Wyllie), the keepers of the flame, and must convince them beyond a shadow of a doubt. Yes, he proves to be an outstanding student and actor, ably fooling them, then of all things -- has a change of heart. He wants out of the scam, largely because the Stone sisters have been very kind to him. As Mason etiquette would have it, an arguement breaks out between the schemers and Stone turns up dead. Safe to say, Perry is saddled with one complicated case; Brooks is innocent, though he has doubts about his claim. Not the first or last tale about an imposter, but intricate enough to watch unfold and end up in Perry's court of last resort.

The acting here wins hands down, absolutely, particularly Starr and veterans Bondie and Wyllie, wearing heavy makeup.

Film buffs will recognize Bondie from such classics as MR SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON and ITS A WONDERFUL LIFE.

Early role for Ivan Dixon (HOGANS HEROES), later to become a distinguished director. Prime character actress Irene Tedrow plays Sister Theresa, stealing a few scenes for good measure.

On a tragic note, one of the final roles for Kate Manx (Irene), who had a promising career, however took her life following a divorce. Known for PRIVATE PROPERTY, which has become a runaway cult film, turning up lately on cable and dvd.

SEASON 7 EPISODE 1 remastered CBS dvd box set. Volumes 1 and 2. 4 dvds per box. Released 2012.