if you are not already familiar with the British Television series called The Avengers, allow me to give you a small preview into this very popular and frequently copied series about a pair of British Secret Agents from the 1960s. Wikipedia refers to the main characters The Avengers initially focused on Dr. David Keel (Ian Hendry[1]) and his assistant John Steed (Patrick Macnee). Hendry left after the first series and Steed became the main character, partnered with a succession of assistants. Steed’s most famous assistants were intelligent, stylish and assertive women: Cathy Gale (Honor Blackman), Emma Peel (Diana Rigg), and later Tara King (Linda Thorson).
I would not hesitate to name Diana Rigg as John Steeds best and most memorable equal of all his associates, not to mention my personal favorite.
Here they are for their first adventure practicing with epees and banter. Their specific relationship seems to be more that simply partners much more familiar than co workers.
I have no explanation for this publicity photo I does not do the series justice. Dame Diana Rigg played a large part in selecting her own outfits and watching her was a major part of my enjoyment of the series. In an interview she did mention the restriction of showing off her navel similar to I dream of Jeanie.
Very strange publicity still from a unique tv show
crankyspanker 
I believe that first episode was the one in which Steed whacks a bent-over Mrs. Peel with the flat of his sword.
I have been trying to isolate a couple of my favorite moments. When trying to thwart this plot to eliminate Major corporate CEOs by replacing them with their assistants Steed poses as an executive and suggests that the most comfy place to take dictation would be bent over his knee, which is where she would up later in the episode. Steed chose to tickle her to get her to talk unfortunately instead of taking the most advantage from that position; ie spanking her!
CS
I don’t see how you can mention The Avengers without at least making a note of Emma Peel as the “Queen of Sin” (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Touch_of_Brimstone). This is only for hard-core fans, of course!
I have the light stroke from the foil scene posted on CSR. There was another episode in which Steed and Emma have their bodies taken over by members of the opposition, and “he” gives “her” one little swat with his hand. I haven’t gotten around to posting it yet, however, and I can’t remember if it’s available somewhere else.
Hi Web-ed
Happy Frackin Christmas. I always enjoy hearing from you please don’t be stranger in the new year. I have never been to Chicago and one of these days I plan to travel. Just a warning no threat implied.
Emanuele aka Crankyspanker