Yes I agree about Michael's performance. So terrified he made ME nervous. Also, gotta give a shout out to Richard Kiley (the police chief) and his performance, as well. They both do a great job the whole episode, especially in the casino scene, when the chief beats the guy in dice, and laughs hard at the dude's misfortune. Fantastic scene right there, as he is interrupted by Hugh's issues. Even the scenes where the police chief is purposely stonewalling Columbo in his office, too busy to even give him the time of day.
I even use the phrase "This is the quid pro quo" when telling people they owe me a favor, and think of how the chief says this to Hugh over the phone when I'm saying it. hehe