Ep 2. Trouble in Chapter 17

James Garner stars as Jim Rockford, a private investigator in Los Angeles, in the Emmy Award-winning show, The Rockford Files. In season 4 episode 2, titled "Trouble in Chapter 17," Rockford finds himself in the middle of a mystery involving a missing manuscript and an author who will stop at nothing to retrieve it.

The episode begins with Rockford receiving a call from Peggy Becker, a former girlfriend who is now working as an editor for a publishing company. Becker tells Rockford that a manuscript for a book, written by a recluse author named Leland St. John, has gone missing and she needs his help in finding it. St. John's book is incredibly valuable, as it is rumored to contain scandalous information about the wealthy and powerful in Beverly Hills.

Rockford sets out to find the missing manuscript and starts by investigating the disappearance of St. John's longtime assistant, who was last seen with the manuscript. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers that St. John's family is deeply involved in the mystery and will go to great lengths to keep the manuscript out of the wrong hands.

Meanwhile, former LAPD Sergeant Dennis Becker, who is now a private investigator himself, is investigating a seemingly unrelated case involving a wealthy businessman who is being blackmailed. However, as the two cases begin to intersect, Rockford and Becker realize that they are both working towards the same goal and team up to crack the case.

As Rockford follows leads and gathers information, he encounters a cast of colorful characters, including St. John's eccentric sister and an enigmatic actor who is rumored to know more than he lets on. With danger around every corner, Rockford must use all of his wit and ingenuity to not only find the missing manuscript but also stay alive in the process.

As the episode unfolds, the tension builds, and the stakes get higher. With some surprising plot twists and unexpected turns, "Trouble in Chapter 17" is an exciting and entertaining episode that showcases the best of The Rockford Files. With its sharp writing, engaging characters, and thrilling plot, this episode is a must-see for fans of the show and newcomers alike.

In conclusion, "Trouble in Chapter 17" is a captivating and suspenseful episode of The Rockford Files that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. With its blend of mystery, drama, and humor, it is a fine example of the quality storytelling that made this show a beloved classic of 1970s television.