John Thaw has just the right balance of restrained cynicism and intellectual curiosity as he and his assistant conclude, early on, that Hanbury was murdered and that life at Hanbury House is far more complicated than previously thought. The widow, her young daughter Georgina, the French au pair and her English boyfriend, the handyman, and a long-time female servant, all brought to life by excellent actors (who are, unfortunately, unnamed in the notes to this production), turn this seemingly simple investigation into a study of human nature and personality. Inspector Morse, himself, becomes less dour when he is attracted to Grayling Russell, the young female pathologist on the case. As Sir Julius's private life unfolds and another murder occurs, Inspector Morse must decide how, if at all, the theft of the paintings is connected to Hanbury's death.

The production values of this audiotape are outstanding, and the action is easy to follow and imagine. The narration, which provides transitions between scenes (which would have been obvious in the TV production), is unobtrusive and keeps the action moving quickly. The sound effects are realistic and add to the excitement of the drama, and Sgt. Lewis, Morse's assistant, provides a fine and often humorous foil to the by-the-book inspector. A delightful audiotape, highly recommended. Mary Whipple