1/2 One morning, Hercule Poirot's post includes a distressing communication from an elderly spinster seeking his help, but not saying why.

What intrigues him most is that the letter was written two months ago.

He persuades Captain Hastings that they must investigate immediately.

Hercule Poirot: John Moffatt

Captain Hastings: Simon Williams

Miss Lawson: Joanna David

Theresa Arundell: Tracy Wiles

Charles Arundell: Ifan Meredith

Ellen: Elizabeth Proud

Miss Peabody: Rosalind Knight

Dr Grainger: Sam Dale

Bob the dog: Richard Beadsmoore

Music: Tom Small

Producer/Director: Enyd Williams

Afternoon Play:

First broadcast: Thu 7th Dec 2006

14:15 on BBC Radio 4 FM

2/2 Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings are now on the trail of murder. And a little wire-haired terrier is proving very helpful in their deliberations.

Hercule Poirot: John Moffatt

Hastings: Simon Williams

Miss Lawson: Joanna David

Bella Tanios: Becky Hindley

Dr Tanios: Sam Dale

Theresa Arundell: Tracy Wiles

Charles Arundell: Ifan Meredith

Chemist: Damlan Lynch

Bob the dog: Richard Beadsmoore