The Inspector Alleyn Mysteries: A Man Lay Dead / A Surfeit of Lampreys

Two BBC Radio Dramatizations for BBC Radio 4 by Michael Bakewell of novels by Ngaio Marsh, with Jeremy Clyde as Chief Inspector Alleyn.A Man Lay Dead:A game of 'murders' at Sir Hubert Handesley's country house party becomes far too realistic for anyone's liking. First a guest arrives with a dangerously lethal dagger and then, when the gong sounds to announce the start of the game, the victim plays dead in a very convincing manner. Chief Detective Inspector Alleyn believes the unusual dagger is a vital clue to the real-life murder, and soon he's on the trail of a Russian secret society. First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2001.A Surfeit of Lampreys:Like all good aristocrats, the Lampreys are charming but penniless - so a visit from the wealthy head of their family is greatly anticipated. However, their Uncle Gabriel isn't persuaded to part with his money and a row ensues. When a body is found in the lift leading to the Lampreys' flat, Chief Detective Inspector Alleyn finds a family immersed in hidden secrets and intrigue. First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in September 2002.