TONIGHT'S MUST-SEES

"The Beast," 8 p.m., A&E. Last week's opener didn't quite connect. It seemed too dark, too dreary, too unrelenting. This second episode, however, has a strong story, with lots of twists and dead ends. It also does a better job of humanizing its characters. Charles Barker (Patrick Swayze) continues to be a tough FBI agent, willing to steal evidence or threaten an enemy's family. Now, however, we see hints of the warmth he's concealing. His new partner (Travis Fimmel) continues to be overwhelmed. Now there are signs that the guy could even have a love life. They plunge into a complex case, as key people disappear or die. It's a tough hour, but one worth sticking with.

"CSI: Crime Scene Investigation," 8 p.m., CBS. Last week, Raymond Langston (Laurence Fishburne) agreed to take a job with the CSI. It was an unusual step for the character — a college professor and medical doctor, taking an entry-level job — and for the show. One of its stars (Marg Helgenberg) will be in charge of the unit, but Langston is basically a beginner. The advantage is that it lets viewers start all over, seeing an investigation through the eyes of a newcomer. Langston investigates a burglary — and soon finds much more.

OF NOTE

"Bones," 7 and 8 p.m., Fox. After a long break, this oft-clever show returns with two new episodes. The first, however, shatters all credibility. Brennan and Booth need information from circus workers; instead of just flashing badges and asking questions, they put together an elaborate disguise as a knife-throwing act. The result tries to be cute but is simply silly.

"Ugly Betty," 7 p.m., ABC. Betty's dad is home from the hospital and being smothered with kindness. Meanwhile, a handsome neighbor is interested in Betty. And at work, Wilhelmina tries to hide a romance.

"Grey's Anatomy," 8 p.m., ABC. Bailey becomes increasingly desperate to help a deteriorating patient; one solution involves an organ donation from a man on death row.

"The Office," 8 p.m., NBC. Michael and Dwight go undercover to spy on a competitor.

"30 Rock," 8:31 p.m., NBC. Nervous about a business retreat, Jack talks Liz into coming.

"ER," 9:01 p.m., NBC. Morris treats a young girl while other doctors have romance problems. Gates still likes Samantha; Neela is flustered by the return of Dr. Brenner.