The Murder at the Vicarage

The Murder at the Vicarage is the second episode of Series 1. Previous Episode: The Body in the Library

Next Episode: 4:50 From Paddington

Transmitted: 19th December 2004

Viewers: 8.36 million

Synopsis
Colonel Lucius Protheroe is probably the least - liked individual in St Mary Mead. All resent his superior and demanding attitude. So, when he is found dead in the vicarage study, there is no end of suspects. His wife Ann was having an affair with a local artist, Lawrence Redding. His daughter Lettice was bridled under his strict rule. There is also the vicar and his assistant, whom Protheroe suspected of stealing church funds. Finally, there is the mysterious Mrs Lester with whom he clearly had some previous connection. Jane Marple, recuperating at home from a sprained ankle, had a bird's eye view of all the coming and goings at the vicarage around the time of the murder and she gladly assists Inspector Slack in solving the crime.

Differences to the Original

 * This adaptation eliminates the characters of Dr Stone and Gladys Cram, replacing them with Professor Dufosse and his granddaughter Helene.
 * The reclusive Mrs Lestrange becomes a lavish alcoholic named Mrs Lester.
 * Miss Marple is given an ankle injury in the lead up to the murder. She is also portrayed as a close friend of Anne Protheroe, something she was not in the original.
 * A series of flashbacks are included in this adaptation depicting Miss Marple in her youth and her love affair with a married soldier.
 * The vicar has a reduced role.