by Hal Erickson
synopsis
The "lost woman" of the title is Rita Marlowe (Ruta Lee), an alcoholic singer whom Ben Cartwright hopes to rehabilitate. But Rita is desperate for drinking money, and as a result accepts an offer of $200 to lure ex-prizefighter Mase Sindell (Don Megowan) back into the ring. The plan hits a snag when Rita actually falls in love with Mase. Featured in the cast are cult-film favorite Dick Miller (Sam), Harry Hickox (Dink), Roger Torrey (Tiny), Bern Hoffman (Fisherman), and John Indrisando (Referee). Originally telecast on March 17, 1963, this episode was discussed at great length two weeks later in a TV Guide "behind the scenes" article about Bonanza. "A Woman Lost" was written by Frank Chase.
