Con artist Samantha Crawford appeared as early as the third episode. She uses an obscure rule regarding straights to beat Bret at poker. They cruise the Mississippi between St. Louis and New Orleans, finally making their way to Wyoming. Samantha served as the prototype for other women who tormented the Mavericks: Melanie Blake, Modesty Blaine and Marla. Samantha and Bret resume their game on the riverboat Stonewall Jackson, and that is when Sam resorts to Hoyle's Book of Games for 5 card stud, allowing her to beat Bret's straight with a pair of 9s. After double-crossing him in Wyoming, Sam realizes she has a soft spot for Bret.
Review of According to Hoyle
