RUMPOLE AND THE ANGEL OF DEATH

This is a new collection of the popular Rumpole adventures, six more stories not yet televised on the popular PBS series, "Mystery." One of the stories is told by "She Who Must Be Obeyed," Rumpole's wife, Hilda, and is narrated by Jill Tanner; the others are narrated by Patrick Tull. As always, the allure of the stories is in Rumpole's witty musings, unique outlook and the work of the Old Bailey. Tull makes a wonderful Rumpole, complete with a deep, rumbling voice; his interpretations of the secondary characters are appropriate, also. There's no problem understanding the various British dialects because Tull's diction is exceptionally clear. Unfortunately, Tanner's rendition isn't as successful. Her high-pitched voice portrays Hilda as much younger than she should be (in her 60's), reducing the success of an otherwise fine recording. S.S.R. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 97]