Shroud for a Nightingale - Part Two

These comments refer to both parts one and two of 'Shroud for a Nightingale'.

This story opening in Nightingale House in 1975 where a group of trainee nurses are being taught. In the class they are giving a demonstration of how to feed a patient through a tube, with a nurse playing the part of the patient... as soon as the liquid in the tube reaches her stomach she reacts violently and dies. It appears that somebody has replaced the milk meant to be used with disinfectant. Inspector Adam Dalgliesh and DS Charles Masterson turn up to investigate. As the case progresses various suspects and motives emerge.

I watched the old version of this story, starring Roy Marsden in the leading role, but thankfully, apart from the opening scene, I could remember very little about it so never felt a need to compare the two while watching. The story is divided into two sixty minute episodes, including adverts, and both can now be watched in a single two hour slot which I'd recommend. I enjoyed the story; the mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing till near the end. It has a great '70s feel. Early on it isn't too obvious why the story is set at the time rather than being updated but as the motive emerges it is clear that time matters. Bertie Carvel impresses as Dalgliesh, a character who feels more 1870s than 1970s... slightly old fashioned rather than out of place. The supporting cast is solid too. On the strength of this I will certainly be watching future Dalgliesh stories.