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Guess the Character Game

Adam_Scarlet 31 Jul 09 at 3:45 p.m. GMT

Hey, all. :)

I thought this forum could use a "Guess the Character" game, seeming as there are so many characters throughout the wonderful world of Christie. It's a pretty simple format. You pretend that you're describing the character in 1st person.

e.g.

"I am a Belgian detective, infact the most famous detective in the world. I like to use my little grey cells and I love to take great care with my beatufiul moustaches".

Okay, that's obviously Poirot. When the next person guesses right they can post one and the game carries on like that. :)

I'll start with the first 'question'; an easy one.

"I am a famous American actress, married to a Lord. Our marriage is on the rocks at the moment, and I'm afraid I've fallen for a rather wealthy Duke".

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1329 replies

Reverse order

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Feb 12 at 2:15 p.m. GMT

You were on the right Lines Nofret

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Jan 12 at 11:09 a.m. GMT

No Not Mr Treves

Nofret 28 Jan 12 at 5:49 a.m. GMT

OLd Mr Treves in Towards Zero, having to take an upstairs room at the hotel? "He" might be the murderer he had recognised.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Jan 12 at 1:22 p.m. GMT

Thankyou Here is mine;

"I am set in my ways amd don't like changeing my plans but If I have to I have to, Shame really, He's quite Happy where he is".

Mr_Graves 25 Jan 12 at 3:39 a.m. GMT

Very well done, Tommy, it is indeed the escaped convict, known to us only as 'Freemantle Freddy', but who was never seen. Your turn now.

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Jan 12 at 1:04 p.m. GMT

The Escaped Convict in The Sittaford Mystery

Nofret 23 Jan 12 at 7:18 p.m. GMT

Is it Jacko Argyle from Ordeal by Innocence?

StephenNorton 23 Jan 12 at 5:46 p.m. GMT

is it perhaps mr. Brown from the secret adversary?

Mr_Graves 23 Jan 12 at 5:31 p.m. GMT

Not a character from Chimneys or a Poirot novel.

You probably only know me by my nickname.

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Jan 12 at 12:56 p.m. GMT

Paul Renauld in Murder On The Links I think he was talked about but never seen until he was Dead

StephenNorton 23 Jan 12 at 9:41 a.m. GMT

is it a character from a poirot novel?

Nofret 23 Jan 12 at 6:57 a.m. GMT

Is it Robert Underhay from Taken at the Flood?

StephenNorton 22 Jan 12 at 4:28 p.m. GMT

Is it perhaps a character from the secret of chimneys?

Mr_Graves 22 Jan 12 at 5:12 a.m. GMT

Not Eva Kane- this character is still alive at the time the novel is set. 

I was suspected, of course, but that was only natural. 

Nofret 21 Jan 12 at 6:04 a.m. GMT

From Mrs Mcginty's Dead, one of my favourites, is it Eva Kane?

Mr_Graves 21 Jan 12 at 1:07 a.m. GMT

Not Li Chang Yen, and not a fabricated character. This character does exist, but we never meet them. This person is a criminal, however.

Nofret 20 Jan 12 at 10:59 a.m. GMT

Not Li Chang Yen, then?

StephenNorton 19 Jan 12 at 6:29 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

May I ask you Mr_Graves does this pcharacter exists within the book, or is it a fabrication, like the "murder" presented in the first possible solution of the murder in the orientexpress?

Mr_Graves 19 Jan 12 at 5:26 p.m. GMT

Not Number Four. Not someone as prominent as that- I think this character may be overestimating their notoriety.

StephenNorton 19 Jan 12 at 4:52 p.m. GMT

Is it number 4 from the big four?

StephenNorton 19 Jan 12 at 4:52 p.m. GMT

Is it number 4 from the big four?

Mr_Graves 15 Jan 12 at 6:18 p.m. GMT

Thank you, Nofret. I must try and see that adapt at some point, it sounds quite good. Well, here is my clue:

I'm a rather prominent figure in a particular book, but you never actually meet me. I'm only talked about, and in regards to a daring plan...

Nofret 10 Jan 12 at 10:28 a.m. GMT

Oh, dear, sorry, it's me again holding up the proceedings! Yes, of course you are right, Mr Graves, it is Chloe West. I really enjoyed the American adaptation of Sparkling Cyanide, where the same actress that played Rosemary also played Chloe, but with a Bronx accent!

Over to you, Mr G.

Mr_Graves 21 Dec 11 at 6:16 a.m. GMT

I hate to guess twice, but I think it might also be Chloe West, I think her name is, an actress who was asked by George Barton to pose as dead Rosemary in "Sparkling Cyanide"...

Mr_Graves 21 Dec 11 at 6:13 a.m. GMT

Is it the so-called Princess Shaista from "Cat Among the Pigeons"? I believe there was some kind of change of accent in the adapt!

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Dec 11 at 1:31 p.m. GMT

Miss Bowers Death On The Nile

Nofret 01 Dec 11 at 3:54 p.m. GMT

No, a train wasn't involved in this story.

Tommy_A_Jones 01 Dec 11 at 1:39 p.m. GMT

The Female Murderer in The Plymouth Express

Nofret 01 Dec 11 at 6:48 a.m. GMT

No, this person accepted a job purely for financial reward, Gladys did it for love!

Clue - There was IMO a very good adaptation of this story, in which this character's accent betrayed her lower-class roots!

Tommy_A_Jones 30 Nov 11 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Gladys in Pocketful of Rye

Nofret 29 Nov 11 at 2:52 p.m. GMT

Not Victoria Jones.

He said it was a joke, but I had my doubts.

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Nov 11 at 12:24 p.m. GMT

Victoria Jones

Nofret 29 Nov 11 at 7:25 a.m. GMT

No, it isn't Midge, and it isn't anyone working for the Pale Horse.

NightRayDuck 29 Nov 11 at 12:01 a.m. GMT

Jane would never bother to emphasize that she had thought that it was "most peculiar" and so on and so on... Midge's job isn't exactly a shocking twist...

I wonder if this might be one of those survey-taking ladies who unknowingly work for the Pale Horse network, in The Pale Horse.

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Nov 11 at 11:46 a.m. GMT

Midge in The Hollow

Nofret 28 Nov 11 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

Aha, I thought someone would guess that! No, GKCfan, it's not Jane.

GKCfan 27 Nov 11 at 7:21 a.m. GMT

The title character in "Jane in Search of a Job?"

Nofret 27 Nov 11 at 7:11 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Mr W.

Well, I was hard up, so I accepted the job, and did what I was asked, although it sounded most peculiar to me. Then I heard what had happened. I had nothing to do with it!

Mr_west 26 Nov 11 at 5:55 a.m. GMT

Correct Nofret (:

Your turn!

Nofret 25 Nov 11 at 7:51 p.m. GMT

Edmunds, the solicitors' clerk?

Mr_west 25 Nov 11 at 3:54 p.m. GMT

Still no. There is someone you missed, he/she is not so very significant, so I'm not at all surprise. 

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Nov 11 at 3 p.m. GMT

Caleb Jonathan

Mr_west 25 Nov 11 at 2:12 p.m. GMT

When I said Nofret was close, I meant in the other way

*hint the book hint*

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Nov 11 at 1:39 p.m. GMT

The Solicitor Calgary went to see in Ordeal By Innocence

Mr_west 25 Nov 11 at 1:12 p.m. GMT

You're very clsoe Nofret! but it's neither Fogg or Mayhew. 

Nofret 25 Nov 11 at 12:16 p.m. GMT

I think this may be one of the legal eagles in Five Little Pigs, either Quentin Fogg or George Mayhew.

Mr_west 24 Nov 11 at 1:23 p.m. GMT

Thank you Ray (:

"I'm very cautious. I spent many years in this firm and took interest in the case. Ay, terrible bussines, I couldn't belive that it was true, but there was nothing else to belive in!"  

NightRayDuck 23 Nov 11 at 7:26 p.m. GMT

Well done, Mr west and Laura! Yes, this character is the elderly retired butler in the Christmas Pudding adventure / Royal Ruby theft. I was a little worried because I only have the Royal Ruby version on hand, and I never know whether details are the same in the Christmas Pudding version.

Mr_west's turn for the next puzzle! :D

Mr_west 23 Nov 11 at 5:25 p.m. GMT

Yes! I didn't remember how to spell his name correctly 

LauraPoirot 23 Nov 11 at 1:34 p.m. GMT

Mr_west I suppose you mean Peverell?!

Mr_west 23 Nov 11 at 11:39 a.m. GMT

Ohh I know that but I forget his name 

Parvel I think, the butler from The Adventure Of The Christimas Pudding

NightRayDuck 22 Nov 11 at 9:12 p.m. GMT

"I am old, and the mistress has been very kind and pensioned me off. However, during this festive season I always come back into the house and look after the master and the mistress properly. My hands may shake, I may be slow on my feet, but I am still in perfect form for my profession! And that is much more than can be said for the new employees these days."

Nofret 20 Nov 11 at 6:44 a.m. GMT

The clothing department!!!!! How dare you, Monsieur! I, Mademoiselle La Roche, provide nothing less than the finest haute couture for these ignorant cochons!

Your turn.

NightRayDuck 19 Nov 11 at 9:56 p.m. GMT

Mademoiselle La Roche, who handles the clothing department at the research center, in Destination Unknown.

It's not that anybody is actively insulting her, but the good-looking lady scientists just aren't interested in the things that Miss La Roche has in stock..

Nofret 19 Nov 11 at 8:20 p.m. GMT

Right gender, and right book, Tommy.............

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Nov 11 at 10:52 a.m. GMT

Janet Hetherington Destination Unknown

Nofret 19 Nov 11 at 4:49 a.m. GMT

Not Countess Rossakoff or Mr Mercado, but one of your other guesses is the right book, although not the right profession.

NightRayDuck 19 Nov 11 at 1:53 a.m. GMT

Countess Rossakoff in "The Capture of Ceberus" would fit the clue about trying not to notice anything fishy going on..

By the way, possibly I am missing some cultural nuances, but I haven't seen any indication that this must have been a female character? Some of the scientists in Destination Unknown, and some of the specialized archaeologists in Murder in Mesopotamia, might fit this clue down to a tee. I was thinking perhaps Mr. Mercado (lithographist, I think) in Murder in Mesopotamia.

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Nov 11 at 1:02 p.m. GMT

Mrs Nic from Hickory Dickory Dock

Nofret 17 Nov 11 at 8:17 p.m. GMT

No. it's no-one from Cat Among the Pigeons, but another of your guesses was very close! 

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Nov 11 at 11:26 a.m. GMT

I realised Honoria Bulstrode would have been a better Guess but she is English but just in case I am wrong and she isn't is it Honoria Bulstrode from Cat Among The Pigeons is it?

Nofret 16 Nov 11 at 4:13 p.m. GMT

That's very clever thinking, Tommy, it could easily be Miss Lemon, however this person is not English.

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Nov 11 at 1:24 p.m. GMT

Miss Lemon

Nofret 16 Nov 11 at 8:06 a.m. GMT

How dare you! I am not a gypsy! I worked hard to get to the top in my profession, and I'm worth every penny that they pay me!

NightRayDuck 15 Nov 11 at 11:38 p.m. GMT

old Mrs. Lee in Endless Night?

Nofret 15 Nov 11 at 4:01 p.m. GMT

Not Miss Lawson - this person seems oblivious to some very odd goings-on around them!

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Nov 11 at 1:19 p.m. GMT

Wilhemina Lawson Dumb Witness

Nofret 14 Nov 11 at 4:43 p.m. GMT

Not Hilary Craven, Tommy.

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Nov 11 at 1:49 p.m. GMT

I mean Hilary Craven

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Nov 11 at 11:26 a.m. GMT

The Lady in Destination Unknown

Nofret 12 Nov 11 at 3:12 p.m. GMT

Not Victoria Jones - I'm sure that if there was anything fishy going on she would have ferreted it out. This person turned a blind eye.

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Nov 11 at 11:15 a.m. GMT

Victoria Jones

Nofret 12 Nov 11 at 9:13 a.m. GMT

Not Lucy Eylesbarrow or Mary Dove - I'm sure people were most appreciative of their efforts!

Mr_Graves 11 Nov 11 at 10:26 p.m. GMT

Or, possibly, Mary Dove from "A Pocket Full of Rye"...

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Nov 11 at 11:26 a.m. GMT

Lucy Eyelesbarrow 4.50 From Paddington

Nofret 11 Nov 11 at 10:27 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Duck.

Having had many years' experience in my chosen profession, this latest position is very satisfactory in terms of pay and resources. Although sometimes I wish people could be more appreciative! And of course anything outside my remit is no concern of mine.

By the way, don't forget Guess the Murder Victim (a very easy one!)

NightRayDuck 11 Nov 11 at 3:21 a.m. GMT

Nofret is correct! The character is Jimmy McGrath in The Secret of Chimneys. Congrats, Nofret, your turn~

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Nov 11 at 3:07 p.m. GMT

The Man Hired to Impersonate in Taken At The Flood, Enoch

Nofret 10 Nov 11 at 6:26 a.m. GMT

Is it Antony Cade's friend from The Secret of Chimneys - think he was called Jimmy McGrath?

bdora 09 Nov 11 at 11:49 p.m. GMT

Jane Wilkinson from "Lord Edware Dies"!

NightRayDuck 09 Nov 11 at 11:11 p.m. GMT

ah, sorry, this character is not Gwen. this character is talking about commissions and jobs that are meant to make money.

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Nov 11 at 11:48 a.m. GMT

Gwen from Sleeping Murder she is from the other side of the world

NightRayDuck 07 Nov 11 at 8:40 p.m. GMT

"Well, I am from the backwoods of the Empire, I know nothing of the ways of English gentlemen in London. This little commision might be very tough for someone like me, and who knows, maybe it's a complete hoax! There's another little job that I'd much rather look into. What to do...?"

Nofret 05 Nov 11 at 5:56 a.m. GMT

Well done, Duck, it is Doctor Carver, who had declared himself to be an honest man who could never be tempted to theft.

Your turn.

NightRayDuck 04 Nov 11 at 8:23 p.m. GMT

Dr. Carver, archaeologist in the Parker Pyne short story "The Pearl of Price"? A theoretical debate about whether a witness would really notice everything, or if the witness would simply be led to believe that they had noticed any particular item. Dr. Carver's success in, um, accidental theft, pretty much proves that the wealthy American and his daughter were wrong to declare that they would certainly notice people fiddling around with things and would never be misled.

Nofret 04 Nov 11 at 4:41 p.m. GMT

Well, yes, it was theft, Miss E, and I stooped literally as well as metaphorically!  But I am not Bobby Jones.

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Nov 11 at 3:06 p.m. GMT

I have just had as weird Idea as Ray, is it Bobby Jones and did he stoop to impersonating a Lawyer in Why Didn't They Ask Evans?  

Miss_Eylesbarrow 03 Nov 11 at 6:28 p.m. GMT

was the thing you 'stooped to' a theft?

Nofret 03 Nov 11 at 6:27 a.m. GMT

That's very well thought out, Duck, but it's not Anthony Cade.

The arrogant man isn't the hilarious Lord Whitfield, Miss E, in fact he is an American.

NightRayDuck 03 Nov 11 at 12:46 a.m. GMT

I had a weird idea... maybe Anthony Cade, when he almost conclusively shows George Lomax what true nobility and high birth is like, but through signing on a job which goes against Anthony's political beliefs and personal habit? The Secret of Chimneys.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 02 Nov 11 at 5:59 p.m. GMT

Just trying to pin down the arrogant man, Nofret. Is he Lord Whitfield from Murder is Easy?

Nofret 02 Nov 11 at 3:37 p.m. GMT

This person isn't as old as Luther Crackenthorpe, and is very active in his profession.

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Nov 11 at 2:31 p.m. GMT

Crackenthorpe Snr

Nofret 02 Nov 11 at 5:52 a.m. GMT

Not Simeon Lee, Tommy.

There is a slight amount of trickery involved, but the character's beliefs are moral rather than religious.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 01 Nov 11 at 6:28 p.m. GMT

'Deepest beliefs' is this character known to be a religious person?

NightRayDuck 01 Nov 11 at 4:13 p.m. GMT

I don't know, the clue sounds like some sort of trickery or hoax is involved..

Tommy_A_Jones 01 Nov 11 at 11:38 a.m. GMT

Simeon Lee

Nofret 01 Nov 11 at 6:34 a.m. GMT

Not John Cavendish. Clue - the arrogant person was a rich man.

Tommy_A_Jones 31 Oct 11 at 2:54 p.m. GMT

John Cavendish in The Mysterious Affair At Styles

Nofret 31 Oct 11 at 12:49 p.m. GMT

I am not a murderer!

Tommy_A_Jones 31 Oct 11 at 11:23 a.m. GMT

The Murderer in ABC Murders 

Nofret 31 Oct 11 at 5:45 a.m. GMT

I would never stoop to blackmail! Though I did stoop to something......

GKCfan 30 Oct 11 at 7:36 p.m. GMT

Does the having "got one over on him" involve blackmail?

Nofret 30 Oct 11 at 3:54 p.m. GMT

No, it is a man speaking.

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Oct 11 at 1:36 p.m. GMT

Os it a Woman?

Nofret 29 Oct 11 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

Poirot? Don't think I've ever met anyone of that name.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 28 Oct 11 at 6:45 p.m. GMT

Is this character talking about Poirot?

Nofret 28 Oct 11 at 6:08 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Inspector.

That man's arrogance is really insufferable. However, thanks to a little habit of mine, I think I've got one over on him! Trouble is, it goes against my deepest beliefs...........

InspectorGrant 27 Oct 11 at 10:38 a.m. GMT

Well done, Nofret - it is indeed John Harrison from Wasps' Nest.

Over to you!

Nofret 27 Oct 11 at 6:30 a.m. GMT

John Harrison from Wasps' Nest?

InspectorGrant 26 Oct 11 at 6 p.m. GMT

No, not Michael, sorry Tommy.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Oct 11 at 2 p.m. GMT

Michael Endless Night

InspectorGrant 26 Oct 11 at 11:35 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Ray.  Here's mine:

It has been a beautiful summer and everything in the garden should be lovely, as they say.  But there will be more than one death at my hands before too long.

NightRayDuck 24 Oct 11 at 1:02 a.m. GMT

Well done, InspectorGrant! The character is Miss Diana Ashley, toying with eligible bachelors, in "The Idol House of Astarte".

Your turn!

InspectorGrant 23 Oct 11 at 5:02 p.m. GMT

Diana Ashley in The Idol House of Astarte?

NightRayDuck 22 Oct 11 at 7:49 p.m. GMT

I think these guesses are closer to the correct answer, even though I don't know the characters' names in the Blue Train novel.

I think this character might add:

Hint 3: "Yes, all right, I set the two of them fighting over me. And in a dark hour at a possibly dangerous place I acted too dramatically mystical. Still, I didn't mean for anyone to get hurt! And, no, I didn't hurt anyone, either."

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Oct 11 at 10:48 a.m. GMT

Mirelle The Mystery of The Blue Train

Nofret 22 Oct 11 at 8:49 a.m. GMT

Iris Staverton from The Shadow on the Glass?

NightRayDuck 21 Oct 11 at 6:36 a.m. GMT

Not Mrs. Luxmore. Whereas Mrs. Luxmore imagined the romantic rivalry between two men...

...Hint 2: This character actively stirred up romantic rivalry between men of certain qualifications. This behavior is considered acceptable in ladies with such qualifications of this character, although the behavior is considered somewhat notorious. To put it simply, I would say this lady was a little unkind, too manipulative, and didn't reckon on the consequences when those guys got really stirred up...

Nofret 21 Oct 11 at 6:08 a.m. GMT

Is it Mrs Luxmore from Cards on the Table? She deluded herself that Major Despard shot her husband for love of her!

NightRayDuck 20 Oct 11 at 10:29 p.m. GMT

This character is not Madame Daubreuil or Countess Vera Rossakoff. This character is indeed a lady, though.

This character might add:

"I was involved in - or at any rate present at - only one tragedy."

InspectorGrant 20 Oct 11 at 12:39 p.m. GMT

The Countess Vera Rossakoff from The Big Four?

Nofret 20 Oct 11 at 6:46 a.m. GMT

Madame Daubreuil, aka Jeanne Beroldy, from Murder on the Links?

NightRayDuck 20 Oct 11 at 3:02 a.m. GMT

"I? In my time, I was well-known and yet notorious. And I just couldn't resist being mysterious and dramatic! Even to this day, people argue about the extent of my involvement in that curious tragedy. I don't think there are many people who ever found out or figured it out."

Nofret 19 Oct 11 at 5:10 a.m. GMT

Well done, Duck, it is indeed Major Philpott, nicknamed God by Mike Rogers!

Your turn.

NightRayDuck 19 Oct 11 at 2:20 a.m. GMT

Major Phillpot in Endless Night.

Nofret 18 Oct 11 at 7:33 p.m. GMT

d) none of the above. That narrows it down a bit!

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Oct 11 at 10:58 a.m. GMT

Does this Character feature in a Book

a) Poirot, Miss Marple or T&T

b) Bundle Brent.

c) a book featuring Battle, Race or Ariadne (Without Poirot

d) one of the other books.

Nofret 17 Oct 11 at 5:39 p.m. GMT

No, someone older than Hori who lived in the 20th century!

de_misteri 17 Oct 11 at 5:14 a.m. GMT

Hori from Death comes as the end?

Nofret 17 Oct 11 at 4:55 a.m. GMT

Horus was primarily the god of war, protection, and the divine form of the Pharoah. My nickname is, however, that of the father of Horus' christian equivalent!

NightRayDuck 17 Oct 11 at 1:54 a.m. GMT

I am quite rusty in my "names in ancient pantheons", but I think Horus was the Egyptian all-seeing god?

the nickname is, I am guessing, "Horus"?

Nofret 16 Oct 11 at 9:14 a.m. GMT

Good point about Charles Cartwright, Tommy, but it's not him. The character comes from a full-length novel

My nickname implies all-seeing wisdom. If only that were the case I could have prevented a double tragedy.

NightRayDuck 16 Oct 11 at 2:30 a.m. GMT

Very difficult, Nofret!

Am I correct to understand that you mean this character is not in a Poirot story or a Marple story?

May I, then, ask if this character is in a full-length novel, or in a short story? Thank you.

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Oct 11 at 11:32 a.m. GMT

Sir Charles Cartwright, he might describe himself as Ordinary in that self depricating way that Actors have which I personally find quite annoying and irritating

Nofret 15 Oct 11 at 9:13 a.m. GMT

Right age and social class, but Gervase would never decribe himself as ordinary!

I have never met anyone from Belgium.

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Oct 11 at 2:35 p.m. GMT

Gervaise Chevenix-Gore

Nofret 14 Oct 11 at 12:41 p.m. GMT

Not Jefferson Cope - clue, this man lives in a beautiful house.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 13 Oct 11 at 7:20 p.m. GMT

I think it's 'Jefferson', Tommy, but I don't think he has a nickname...?  Good question Nofret, I'm really stumped.

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Oct 11 at 11:10 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Cope from Appointment With Death sorry can't remember his first name,

To Ray I meant Clapperton was interested in the Girls he went off with after saying Goodby to his wife and if the Cabins were all together they would be like neighbours.

Nofret 13 Oct 11 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

Tommy and Duck - you're probably thinking of Colonel Clapperton, I'm not he, and I appear in a full-length novel.

Clue - I was the friend of a very tragic victim.

NightRayDuck 12 Oct 11 at 6:03 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Tommy - I think I was thinking of the same character.. but I couldn't think of him supplying someone else with an alibi, and on a ship (or when the ship is docked in a port) I couldn't recall that character being interested in his neighbors either. hmm. very puzzling. o.O

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Oct 11 at 1:41 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Is he a Murderer in a Short story (The one set on board a ship?

Nofret 12 Oct 11 at 5:19 a.m. GMT

Not Badger Beadon, this chap was middle-aged.

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Oct 11 at 1 p.m. GMT

I mean Badger Beadon

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Oct 11 at 11 a.m. GMT

The chap Bobby goes into Business with in Why Didn't They Ask Evans?

Nofret 11 Oct 11 at 7:34 a.m. GMT

No, it's not Battler Hastings! Clue - this man unwittingly supplied a callous murderer with an alibi.

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Oct 11 at 11:40 a.m. GMT

Is it Hastings? I can't remember where a Nickname is mentioned in a book but In Dumb Witness Charles is an old friend anbd calls Hastings Battler as in Battle o' Hastings

Nofret 07 Oct 11 at 4:32 p.m. GMT

No, don't think she would have wanted to be a midge! Clue - it is a man speaking.

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Oct 11 at 11:38 a.m. GMT

Midge from The Hollw

Nofret 06 Oct 11 at 3:39 p.m. GMT

Not Miss Murgatroyd - this character had never met anyone from St Mary Mead!

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Oct 11 at 2:16 p.m. GMT

Miss Murgatroyed

Nofret 05 Oct 11 at 4:20 p.m. GMT

Good guess, but not Dora Bunner.

Tommy_A_Jones 05 Oct 11 at 1:07 p.m. GMT

Bunny A Murder is Announced Someone has to go first and at least this answer eliminates someone.

Nofret 05 Oct 11 at 9 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Tommy.

Describe myself? Well, I'm quite an ordinary person, really, nothing to look at, not particularly well-off (though our family had seen better days). I'm told I can imitate voices quite accurately! I take an interest in my neighbours - oh, yes, and I was amused to learn my nickname, in hindsight how I wish I could have lived up to it!

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Oct 11 at 2:51 p.m. GMT

I don't know why I put that post, please ignore it.

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Oct 11 at 11:07 a.m. GMT

Hardcastle (The Clocks)

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Oct 11 at 10:56 a.m. GMT

Yes Nofret,Correct on both points Well Done, Over to you

Nofret 04 Oct 11 at 8:58 a.m. GMT

Try this one then - is it Dr Haydock, specifically thinking of The Case of the Caretaker, when he recommends a problem to a convalescing Miss M?

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Oct 11 at 11:23 a.m. GMT

No I would never choose that book for a Puzzle as I don't like it.

Nofret 02 Oct 11 at 9:22 a.m. GMT

Is it Esa from Death Comes as the End?

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Sep 11 at 1:21 p.m. GMT

Thankyou Inspector Grant

I am a wise old bird I have to be a bit of a Psychologist, I am glad my remedy helped

InspectorGrant 28 Sep 11 at 12:21 p.m. GMT

You are right, Tommy, it is Sylvia Battle from Towards Zero.  Over to you ...

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Sep 11 at 1:10 p.m. GMT

Battle's Daughter in Towards Zero

InspectorGrant 27 Sep 11 at 12:31 p.m. GMT

No.   Here's a clue - it is a full length novel, but Poirot is not in it.

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Sep 11 at 11:18 a.m. GMT

Jane Finn The Secret Adversary

InspectorGrant 27 Sep 11 at 5:43 a.m. GMT

No, have another go, Tommy.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Sep 11 at 1:40 p.m. GMT

The Girl who comes to Poirot sent by Ariadne in Third Girl

InspectorGrant 26 Sep 11 at 12:31 p.m. GMT

Thank you Ray, hope you are feeling much better soon.  Here's mine ...

I didn't really mean to tell a lot of lies, but I did feel much better afterwards.

NightRayDuck 24 Sep 11 at 9:11 p.m. GMT

InspectorGrant got the right character! Your turn now, InspectorGrant! 

Nofret- I am sorry! You are right, I meant Henrietta from The Hollow. My thought process was being constantly interrupted by sneezes. 

InspectorGrant 24 Sep 11 at 7:44 a.m. GMT

Emma Boscowan in By the Pricking of my Thumbs.  Interviewed by Tommy.  (I really do think I might be on to something here, Ray)..

Nofret 24 Sep 11 at 6:32 a.m. GMT

There's no Henrietta in HP's Christmas. I expect you mean Henrietta Savernake from The Hollow.

NightRayDuck 23 Sep 11 at 11:28 p.m. GMT

oh dear oh dear... ::looking for a possible hideout:: but I haven't given any misleading hint, tho. hmm.

Hint 2 and Hint 2.5 eliminate all police officers and anyone in a Poirot story, so that rules out Battle. No, the man asking loadsa questions is not Battle.

Hint 4.75: ADVENTURE. Several adventures throughout his lifetime, in fact.

To the best of my understanding, Mr. Quin does not regard his activities as adventures; Col. Race's later cases were investigations, only his first case had been adventure-like, but I think it was a job assigned by the government? The only thing I can say against Mr. Parker Pyne is that his adventures are mostly when he is middle-aged. This character who asks lots questions has been getting in and out and back into adventures since his youth.

Hint 5: The character (the aging lady who gets asked these questions) practices the same or similar creative art as Henrietta from "Hercule Poirot's Christmas".

InspectorGrant 23 Sep 11 at 5:30 p.m. GMT

..Or is it Colonel Race?

Nofret 23 Sep 11 at 4:16 p.m. GMT

.....or is it Battle?

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Sep 11 at 1:42 p.m. GMT

Is the Man;

a) Parker Pyne

b) Mr Quin

c) Neither?

NightRayDuck 22 Sep 11 at 4:23 p.m. GMT

um, dear InspectorGrant, Hester is not a professional of any type, nor does she know of any information from MANY DECADES ago. o.O

Tommy - refer to Hint 2.5. This is NOT a POIROT story.

um, my Hint 4 wasn't very clearly written? What I meant to say was The man who asks a lot of questions is a recurring Christie character, with several grand adventures to his name, or under his belt, or in his graying hair, or whatever the expression he might feel comfortable with.

You might do well to figure out who this man is..

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 11 at 1:18 p.m. GMT

The Female relative of the 2nd Victim in ABC Murders I ma sorry I can't remember her name

InspectorGrant 22 Sep 11 at 12:17 p.m. GMT

Hester Argyle from Ordeal by Innocence? 

NightRayDuck 21 Sep 11 at 6:06 p.m. GMT

This woman does not work in a shop. Decades ago she used to go about different places while she worked. When the man comes asking questions, she is working in her own home. Note: While working, she may be a bit messy.

This woman is a native English speaker; she is not known to be foreign-born; nor has she lived in a foreign country for any significant numver of years.

The information she gives contains all possibly relevant information, but nothing specialized. This man is asking for, basically, anything she can remember about those times and that place. I think it's quite rude for the man to be inattentive to her answers, and even to momentarily doubt her honesty.

The replies are difficult to follow, precisely because:

1) The man asking for info does not know which details are relevant.

2) The situation that the man is trying to work on, is one remote extension of the "decades of crime & etc & etc & tragedy". This woman knows only of the remote beginning of those decades; situation has by now evolved to a hugely diverse scope, so it's difficult for this woman to estimate the relevance of the information she has, and to convey her estimated relevance to the man asking for info.

Hint 4: This woman appears only in one novel. The man asking questions, however, has had several grand adventures to his name. (That's why I seriously think his subsequent inactivity after obtaining the replies is really very unworthy of him.)

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Sep 11 at 1:37 p.m. GMT

Does the woman work in a Shop?

Nofret 21 Sep 11 at 5:32 a.m. GMT

Not a domestic servant, then.

Were the replies difficult to follow because a) the person did not have English as their first language, or b) because the reply contained a lot of unnecessary and specialised inforrmation?

NightRayDuck 21 Sep 11 at 3:23 a.m. GMT

"Well, that man just came up to my door and asked me for such a lot of information from the distant past, a subject that he himself knew nothing about. Of course he would find my replies difficult to follow! I had to ponder whether some other information might be relevant, too."

"Should he expect to figure out several decades of crime and intrigue and hidden tragedy by interviewing me for a few minutes? I wasn't deeply involved in those secrets, either; I hadn't much solid information to tell him. But - seems either he's thinking I am extremely scatty like people of my age and profession, or he's suspecting me of being involved in those crimes and deliberately lying to him."

The bolded words above still haven't been met by characters so far guessed. Any question to this character is welcome, and this character, I think, will spout several paragraphs of possibly relevant information which, if you happen to not have read, or have forgotten the particular story, will not understand at all (just like this man who asks this character lots of questions).

also,

Hint 3: The profession usually considered to be held by scatty or head-in-the-air persons, practiced by this lady, IS NOT THE ONE practiced by Dr. Calgary of "Ordeal by Innocence". The type of reputation about absent-mindedness is, however, much the same between these professions.

That's probably not a very useful hint? Ask something you'd like to know about this character before she gives you lots more information that you don't think of looking into..

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Sep 11 at 12:59 p.m. GMT

Is it the Discontented Lady from the Short story of that name?

Nofret 19 Sep 11 at 7:02 a.m. GMT

I would guess that the "scatty person" is a domestic servant.

is the young man Giles Reed from Sleeping Murder, interviewing one of the former servants of the Hallidays?

NightRayDuck 19 Sep 11 at 1:56 a.m. GMT

This character is not Madame Giselle's maid or anybody in Why Didn't They Ask Evans.

Both those stories are which I either haven't ever read, or haven't read in a long time and don't remember anything about. I don't know if there's anybody not policeman in Death in the Clouds that's qualified to ask a lot of questions? o.O

Oh well..

Hint 2.5: This character does not appear in a Poirot story.

About Hint 1, I should mention that nobody has yet guessed the correct profession, or even category of professions. Yet, I understand that, in stories, several types of professions are often held by characters who are scatter-brained or forgetful to the point that, at a casual glance, the characters might seem scatty?

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Sep 11 at 11:18 a.m. GMT

Is it the Woman played by Joan Hickson in Why Didn't |They Ask Evans?

Nofret 17 Sep 11 at 5:36 a.m. GMT

Is ti Madame Giselle's maid from Death in the Clouds, being asked about the people her mistress had blackmailed?

NightRayDuck 17 Sep 11 at 2:59 a.m. GMT

This is not a maid in the Styles case, either. I think I might as well go ahead with the type of hints usually requested in these games..

Hint 2: The man who asks a lot of questions is not M. Poirot, not Mr. Hastings, nor any policeman.

And a tally of guesses so far: predominantly female characters; many middle-aged or above. These are on the right lines, this character is female, age I think is around 60-yrs-old or older.

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Sep 11 at 1:45 p.m. GMT

The Maid in The Mysterious Affair at Styles

NightRayDuck 16 Sep 11 at 3:47 a.m. GMT

this character is not the assistant to the archaeologist or the governess you have guessed. before this character spouts several additional paragraphs of possibly relevant information that would likely confuse our friends even further, I think I might give a hint by highlighting certain points in the statements so far.

Hint 1: see bold words below; but please do remember to consider the bolded words in context of the sentences they're in. The whole sentences are correct, the highlighted portions are characteristics not found in the characters that have been in guesses so far.

"Well, that man just came up to my door and asked me for such a lot of information from the distant past, a subject that he himself knew nothing about. Of course he would find my replies difficult to follow! I had to ponder whether some other information might be relevant, too."

"Should he expect to figure out several decades of crime and intrigue and hidden tragedy by interviewing me for a few minutes? I wasn't deeply involved in those secrets, either; I hadn't much solid information to tell him. But - seems either he's thinking I am extremely scatty like people of my age and profession, or he's suspecting me of being involved in those crimes and deliberately lying to him."

Kieren56 15 Sep 11 at 9:45 p.m. GMT

Is it Cecilia Williams, the governess Five Little Pigs ?

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Sep 11 at 2:11 p.m. GMT

Miss Johnstone Murder in Mesopotamia

NightRayDuck 14 Sep 11 at 6:48 p.m. GMT

Not Miss Gilchrist or Mr. Wake, either. This might be time for the character to explain the situation a little more clearly:

"Should he expect to figure out several decades of crime and intrigue and hidden tragedy by interviewing me for a few minutes? I wasn't deeply involved in those secrets, either; I hadn't much solid information to tell him. But - seems either he's thinking I am extremely scatty like people of my age and profession, or he's suspecting me of being involved in those crimes and deliberately lying to him."

Nofret 13 Sep 11 at 4:09 p.m. GMT

Is it Mr Wake, the vicar of Wychwood-under-Ashe, talking about Luke Fitzwilliam in Murder is Easy?

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Sep 11 at 11:39 a.m. GMT

Miss Gilchrist After The Funeral

NightRayDuck 13 Sep 11 at 1:59 a.m. GMT

Not Miss Peabody. Poirot didn't stick to information of the distant past for very long. This visitor did.

Nofret 12 Sep 11 at 7:38 a.m. GMT

Is it Caroline Peabody from Dumb Witness?

NightRayDuck 12 Sep 11 at 2:37 a.m. GMT

Thank you, SainsburySeale! I knew the name was Vera something, I just didn't find it when I flipped through the book.

Next character up for guessing:

"Well, that man just came up to my door and asked me for such a lot of information from the distant past, a subject that he himself knew nothing about. Of course he would find my replies difficult to follow! I had to ponder whether some other information might be relevant, too."

SainsburySeale 10 Sep 11 at 2:49 p.m. GMT

Vera Daventry aka Socks is right NightRayDuck!

Sorry it was so easy. I'll try to make it more subtle next time I get the chance.

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Sep 11 at 12:29 p.m. GMT

Jane Hellier

NightRayDuck 10 Sep 11 at 8:41 a.m. GMT

the character considers herself subtle. the game rule said to speak from the character's own point of view. so here we are. ;-)

Mr_Battle_Brent 10 Sep 11 at 6:16 a.m. GMT

Hahaha,what a nice subtle puzzle!

NightRayDuck 10 Sep 11 at 4:13 a.m. GMT

young woman nicknamed "Socks", who brings subtlety to the alarum-clock prank in the opening chapters of The Seven Dials Mystery?

SainsburySeale 10 Sep 11 at 3:16 a.m. GMT

Yay! now I think of a character, right? ...

I really don't know what to say about myself, except I am rather subtle. I do love subtle things, don't you?

GKCfan 09 Sep 11 at 3:32 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

YES!  Correct, SainsburySeale!  It's Mlle. Blanche from Cat Among the Pigeons, who was killed putting on makeup, and her killer hid in her room under her coat.  Blanche took on a dead woman's identity, and then tried to blackmail the killer!

SainsburySeale 09 Sep 11 at 3:19 a.m. GMT

Hi there! Mind if I take a guess? I think Angele Blanche who was pretending to be her deceased sister in Cat Among the Pigeons fits the descripion.

LauraPoirot 08 Sep 11 at 9:19 p.m. GMT

You're right Ray it was just that damned coat thing that made me think "it must be Maggie" and forget all the other clues... ;) I'm sorry I can't help you with the mirror story though I have such a scene in my mind but it's rather a movie scene... 

NightRayDuck 08 Sep 11 at 9:05 p.m. GMT

but Maggie wasn't attempting any crime or impersonating anyone else..

I haven't read certain books in a looooooong time and had been frequently interrupted back when I was reading them, so the guess will come across as rather garbled..

I'd guess the crime is impersonation, though not quite perjury like Merlina Rival mis-identifying a dead body.

The character and the story, maybe the middle-aged woman who got pushed out of a 7th storey window, in Third Girl? I have a vague impression of someone being killed while looking at himself or herself in a mirror, but I have no idea which story and which author that might have come from. 

LauraPoirot 08 Sep 11 at 8:22 p.m. GMT

Might Be Maggie Buckley in Peril At ends House.

GKCfan 08 Sep 11 at 7:46 p.m. GMT

None of those, sorry.  

The victim did not drown and the crime in question was not perjury.  The victim was not wearing her coat when she died, which gave the killer an opportunity.

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Sep 11 at 1:03 p.m. GMT

Mrs Lorimer from Cards On The Table

LauraPoirot 08 Sep 11 at 9:33 a.m. GMT

Is it Paul Renauld in murder on the links?

Nofret 08 Sep 11 at 9:09 a.m. GMT

If the person had worn a short jacket they might still be alive? So, did this person drown, as a long coat would have weighed them down?

If it wasn't for the coat I would guess the crime is perjury and the victim is Merlina Rival from The Clocks.

GKCfan 08 Sep 11 at 4:14 a.m. GMT

Sorry, this is not a character from Blue Train.  This is a female murder victim from a Poirot novel, and this victim is not the first person to be killed in the book.  Anyone want to guess what this "final attempt at breaking the law" was?  Here's a hint: this "final attempt" was not murder, theft, arson, or tax evasion.

natsimard 07 Sep 11 at 7:27 p.m. GMT

Could we have another clue? I am really struggling with this one...

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Sep 11 at 11:28 a.m. GMT

Is it the maid in The Mystery of The Blue Train?

GKCfan 07 Sep 11 at 2:44 a.m. GMT

No, sorry.

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Sep 11 at 1:59 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Is it The Dentist's Accomplice in Death In The Clouds

GKCfan 06 Sep 11 at 4:55 a.m. GMT

Sorry, no.  Remember that this character is murdered.

natsimard 06 Sep 11 at 1:04 a.m. GMT

Is it the young lady impersonating Pilar Estravados, Simeon Lee's grand-daughter in Poirot's Christmas?

GKCfan 04 Sep 11 at 5:48 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

No, sorry.  Not Eileen Corrigan from Taken at the Flood.

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Sep 11 at 12:19 p.m. GMT

The Irish Girl who claims to be the wife

GKCfan 04 Sep 11 at 4:24 a.m. GMT

Sorry, it should read, "if I'd WORN a short jacket."

NightRayDuck 03 Sep 11 at 11:44 p.m. GMT

GKCfan

"I am not who I say I am, and it's not clear if anyone ever figured out my real identity, or even the fact that I was stealing the identity of a dead person.  In any case, my final attempt at breaking the law prooved fatal.  I don't know that if I'd won a short jacket instead of a long coat I'd still be alive, or if I hadn't been so concerned about my looks I'd still be alive, but it's a possibility.  I do know for a fact that that I hate my job..."

Question.. This character won a short jacket instead of a long coat? I don't know many Poirot cases, so I just wanted to check if that sentence is correct. Thank you.

GKCfan 03 Sep 11 at 7:25 p.m. GMT

Sorry, both guesses are wrong... but a character who appears in both of the books you just mentioned also appears in the only book in which the character in my puzzle appears.

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Sep 11 at 2:32 p.m. GMT

I mean Enoch Arden

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Sep 11 at 1:47 p.m. GMT

I think it is the Chap hired to impersonate someone in Taken At The Flood

Nofret 03 Sep 11 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

This is a puzzling one, GKCfan! I'd say Claud Darrell (Number 4 in The Big Four) except he obviously enjoyed his job as an assassin.

GKCfan 02 Sep 11 at 8 p.m. GMT

"I am not who I say I am, and it's not clear if anyone ever figured out my real identity, or even the fact that I was stealing the identity of a dead person.  In any case, my final attempt at breaking the law prooved fatal.  I don't know that if I'd won a short jacket instead of a long coat I'd still be alive, or if I hadn't been so concerned about my looks I'd still be alive, but it's a possibility.  I do know for a fact that that I hate my job..."

natsimard 02 Sep 11 at 6:56 p.m. GMT

Congratulations GKCfan! It is indeed Maud Wye from the short story "The Herb of Death" in The Thirteen Problems. I will have to try a little harder when I get another kick at it.

Tommy_A_Jones 02 Sep 11 at noon GMT

The woman who as a Nurse Nursed her Husband's First Wife in Caribbean Mystery

GKCfan 02 Sep 11 at 6:36 a.m. GMT

Maud Wye from "The Herb of Death?"

natsimard 01 Sep 11 at 11:46 p.m. GMT

The first time I kissed my husband, he was engaged to my friend. When she died, suspicion fell on us both but we were married any way. It's not always the prettiest girl who wins the prize...

natsimard 01 Sep 11 at 11:20 p.m. GMT

Oh my goodness! I thought it was a total shot in the dark... Thank you for the warm welcome Nofret. I will be right back with my little puzzle.

Nofret 01 Sep 11 at 5:25 a.m. GMT

Well done, Natsimard, and welcome to our little games. It was indeed Mr Schwartz from The Erymanthian Boar.

Your turn now.

natsimard 31 Aug 11 at 10:18 p.m. GMT

The only character I remember in stripped pijamas was Mr Schwartz in one of the Labours of Hercule short stories... Could it be him? I think he was an american tourist.

Nofret 31 Aug 11 at 4:11 p.m. GMT

Not Katherine Grey.

Clue - I wore striped pyjamas.

Tommy_A_Jones 31 Aug 11 at 11:45 a.m. GMT

Katherine Grey FromThe Mystery of The Blue Train

Nofret 31 Aug 11 at 7:09 a.m. GMT

Not Hilary Craven. Clue - the "little guy" came from Belgium.........

Tommy_A_Jones 30 Aug 11 at 11:53 a.m. GMT

Mrs Craven From Destination Unknown (Can't remember her first name for the minute.

Nofret 30 Aug 11 at 4:59 a.m. GMT

Not Victoria Jones.

natsimard 29 Aug 11 at 11:33 p.m. GMT

Is it Victoria Jones - They Came to Baghdad?

Nofret 29 Aug 11 at 6:12 p.m. GMT

Good guess, it's not Anne Bedingfield, though the "little man" could have been Minks!

Tommy_A_Jones 29 Aug 11 at 11:29 a.m. GMT

Ann Beddingfield from one of My Favourite books The Man In The Brown Suit The Film is one of My Favourite Adfaptations aswell

Nofret 28 Aug 11 at 8:28 p.m. GMT

Well, I went looking for adventure, and oh boy, did I find it! Good job I came prepared! That little guy had us all fooled!

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Aug 11 at 3:10 p.m. GMT

I am an Idiot, I didn't see your answer Nofret you are absolutely right, He is thought to be Battle's Son and Battle thinks of Poirot while solving Towards Zero, as Battle and Race are both in Cards On The Table it isn't beyond the realms of believeabilty that Colin ever meets Race but not in the Books although he Didn't meet Ariadne he says in The Clocks that he has heard of her, Well done, Over to you. 

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Aug 11 at 11:31 a.m. GMT

Very slightly, she is referred to, in the Book this person is in, but The person never net Ariadne so thinking about it if she never met this persom there is no reason why Race did, aoart from the fact Race and this persons relative are both men and as I said although no-one seems to have noticed this persons relative thought of someone when solveing a Case and the person he thought of is in the same books as the person whose Identity I want you to discover, I have told you much too much now and I think you will get it from all that or I have bamboozlerd you completely.

Nofret 28 Aug 11 at 11:26 a.m. GMT

Is it Colin Lamb from The Clocks? He was the son of Chief Superintendant Battle, who solved the murder of Lady Tressilian by remembering Poirot's passion for symmetry.

NightRayDuck 28 Aug 11 at 6:13 a.m. GMT

is Mrs. Ariadne Oliver involved?

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Aug 11 at 1:43 p.m. GMT

No The Book is not set in The Middle East and The Person hasn't got a Title which Suggests His or her Proffession

InspectorGrant 27 Aug 11 at 1:26 p.m. GMT

Is the book set in the Middle East - like in 'Murder in Mesopotamia' - I was thinking of Nurse Amy Leatheran.

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Aug 11 at 11:21 a.m. GMT

No but it isn't beyond the realms of Possibility that Race would know this person.

NightRayDuck 26 Aug 11 at 5:02 p.m. GMT

is Colonel Johnny Race involved?

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Aug 11 at 3:30 p.m. GMT

No-one from Pale Horse or Cards On The Table but one of those Books is Close.

NightRayDuck 25 Aug 11 at 8:42 p.m. GMT

I keep thinking about the characters who survived the Cards on the Table case and unknowingly provided clues in the Pale Horse case. These particular characters aren't very active in the Pale Horse case, though.

I can toss out one or two random guesses, but they won't be supported by anything I have read. I am not good at remembering the pasts of characters..

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Aug 11 at 1:49 p.m. GMT

No, Fraid not, Ray is Closesst so far.  

Mr_Graves 24 Aug 11 at 7:56 p.m. GMT

Unless this character is an actual dog, I can only assume that it is somebody with canine qualities... For want of a better person, Cornelia Robson?

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Aug 11 at 1:49 p.m. GMT

No, Hastings never met this Person but If I say anymore it will give it away as you are sought of Close.

NightRayDuck 16 Aug 11 at 10:26 p.m. GMT

What was that about.. Hastings helping Poirot identify an elusive serial killer in "Curtain"? I don't remember much details from Hastings's life so I do not know whether Poirot helped Hastings's relative, sorry..

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Aug 11 at 1:38 p.m. GMT

I have just realised I have made it quite easy

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Aug 11 at 1:43 p.m. GMT

I should haved said "Faithful Dog" he or she is who I want you to reveal

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Aug 11 at 2:03 p.m. GMT

No sorry you are wrong Ray, I don't know if it is too early for a Clue but this person does not appear in The Labour of Hercules

NightRayDuck 09 Aug 11 at 5:36 a.m. GMT

hmm.. Countess Vera Rossakoff thinking about Poirot during "The Capture of Ceberus", referring to the previous activity in which Poirot saved her son ("The Big Four", I think) ?

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Aug 11 at 2:03 p.m. GMT

Yes Sorry, I didn't realise I had got the last one

"I don't mind being his Dog, if it means Finding a Murderer, He has helped a Relative of mine before now, Once when he wasn't even Present".

NightRayDuck 03 Aug 11 at 6:53 p.m. GMT

Hi Tommy! How are you? Are you going to set the next puzzle? Let us know. :-)

NightRayDuck 27 Jul 11 at 11 p.m. GMT

Precisely so, Tommy! This character is Deb, daughter of Tommy'n'Tuppence Beresford. Your turn! :D

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Jul 11 at 2:39 p.m. GMT

Deberoah Beresford

NightRayDuck 26 Jul 11 at 11:53 a.m. GMT

If anybody has a question or needs a hint on this character, please feel free to ask. :)

NightRayDuck 13 Jul 11 at 7:13 p.m. GMT

Thank you. :-)

"Ugh... my parents need to be more careful. They're old, you know, and they still rush off on these wild-goose chases. One goes missing and the other thinks there's nothing wrong, until I call long-distance to check with them. They really ought to look after one another better than that."

Nofret 13 Jul 11 at 7:22 a.m. GMT

Well done, Ray, it is indeed the pilfering curate Mr Hawes.

You turn.

NightRayDuck 12 Jul 11 at 9:42 p.m. GMT

Oh, wait. Is this character the new curate (name of Hawes or something) working under Reverend Clement, in "The Murder at the Vicarage"?

NightRayDuck 12 Jul 11 at 9:25 p.m. GMT

Was this person an elderly gardener who nagged at the employer about how the garden should be rearranged and re-planted and etc and so on?

Nofret 29 Jun 11 at 10:47 a.m. GMT

Yes, this person stole money. However, they eventually owned up.

NightRayDuck 28 Jun 11 at 7:02 p.m. GMT

or perhaps he or she stole also small pieces of jewelry?

The real difficulty I am having at the moment is that I can't think of a newly-hired character who makes suggestions to the employer. 

LauraPoirot 28 Jun 11 at 4:58 p.m. GMT

so he or she stole money!? just to make that clear.

LauraPoirot 28 Jun 11 at 4:57 p.m. GMT

so he or she stole money!? just to make that clear.

Nofret 28 Jun 11 at 2:24 p.m. GMT

Don't think the person in question gambled, they were just lightfingered.

NightRayDuck 27 Jun 11 at 10:33 p.m. GMT

gambling? and then needing extra monetary sources to repay debts?

Nofret 27 Jun 11 at 8:39 p.m. GMT

No, the weakness is definitely financial....

NightRayDuck 27 Jun 11 at 1:53 a.m. GMT

A tendency to listen at doors, then? Or an inclination to look through contents of desks drawers suitcases of employer?

Nofret 26 Jun 11 at 8:33 a.m. GMT

Definitely not, Ray!

NightRayDuck 26 Jun 11 at 12:26 a.m. GMT

Perhaps an addiction to alcoholic drinks?

Nofret 25 Jun 11 at 5:34 p.m. GMT

Not exactly, Laura, but you're close!

LauraPoirot 25 Jun 11 at 9:38 a.m. GMT

Is that little weakness maybe Kleptomania? It's just a guess...

Nofret 25 Jun 11 at 6:22 a.m. GMT

Not Miss Knight - did she have a little weakness?

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Jun 11 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

The Irritating Miss Knight The Mirror Crack'd

Nofret 24 Jun 11 at 7:38 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Ray

As I have only recently been employed here I am naturally anxious to make a good impression, but my suggestions do not seem to be welcomed, and I feel that my employer does not like me. If only I could get my little weakness under control.....

NightRayDuck 24 Jun 11 at 2:41 a.m. GMT

Yes, Nofret! The character is Dr. Pauncefoot Jones. Your turn! :D

By the way, my unreliable Christie-encyclopedia said that the character Edward is working with Dr. Jones and that the professor is so absent-minded that he is better known as "Pussyfoot Jones". Yikes. The bad reference book confuses their characters all the time. :p

Nofret 22 Jun 11 at 10:50 a.m. GMT

Is it the splendidly named Dr Pauncefoot Jones?

NightRayDuck 04 Jun 11 at 10:28 p.m. GMT

This is an archaeologist appearing in They Came to Bagdad, yes. Can you provide his name? :)

HerculeJC 04 Jun 11 at 3:45 p.m. GMT

Is this from THEY CAME TO BAGDAD??   I think one of the two archeologists could have thought that about Victoria.

NightRayDuck 03 Jun 11 at 9:04 p.m. GMT

..anybody want to make a guess on this character? Should I give a hint outright?

Hint 1: The confusion of various female travelers is caused solely by the name(s) they traveled under. No indecency was intended by the character, by the various travelers, or perceived by people around this character.

NightRayDuck 28 May 11 at 11:42 p.m. GMT

"Am I an absent-minded professor? It seems when a complete stranger asked me for help, I mistook her as a niece whom I'd never met but had been expecting here. But when my sister-in-law got here in my wife's place, I certainly noticed the difference! So many people traveling under a different name, eh?"

HerculeJC 28 May 11 at 9:35 p.m. GMT

Good job, NightRay.  "Back to you!!"

NightRayDuck 28 May 11 at 8:42 p.m. GMT

Jane Cleveland in "Jane in Search of a Job" ?

HerculeJC 28 May 11 at 6:28 a.m. GMT

Next Character:

"Oh my !!!  I was just seeking gainful employment!!!

"I never planned to be involved in this type of situation, one that called for me to be framed'"!!

NightRayDuck 27 May 11 at 8:34 p.m. GMT

Countess Vera Rossakoff is the correct answer! Over to you, Hercule.

HerculeJC 27 May 11 at 12:59 a.m. GMT

Are you COUNTESS VERA ROSSAKOFF?

NightRayDuck 26 May 11 at 10:12 p.m. GMT

Hercule - not any shop owner in The Pale Horse.

Hint 1: This character claims a social / peerage rank higher than Lady Bess.

Hint 2: This character appears in several stories.

HerculeJC 26 May 11 at 6:29 a.m. GMT

How about the shop owner in THE PALE HORSE??  I'll have to retrieve my copy of that story.

NightRayDuck 26 May 11 at 2:07 a.m. GMT

aah I keep forgetting the details of the business at Bertram's.. but I don't recall Bess Sedgewick as a brilliant and audacious criminal before the hotel...

This character claims a social rank higher than Lady Bess.

Tommy_A_Jones 25 May 11 at 3 p.m. GMT

Bess Sedgewick At Bertram's Hotel

NightRayDuck 17 May 11 at 8:12 p.m. GMT

My activities as a youngster were not clearly or widely known, but one might guess that they had been adventerous. When I was middle-aged, I was still adventurous and unscrupulous, taking any opportunity that came my way. In my old age, however, I've been reduced to being a small business owner that is only a front to the criminal activities of others. Aah.. am I no longer the brilliant and audacious criminal?

HerculeJC 16 May 11 at 8:48 p.m. GMT

Correct, Night Ray, Character #2 is Conchita Lopez, from Hercule Poirot's Christmas.

She impersonated Pilar, who relayed her story, then was killed in a vehicle attack, during the Spanish Civil War.   Conchita hoped a small legacy from Simeon Lee could help her resettle somewhere else.

Your turn, Ray!!

NightRayDuck 16 May 11 at 8:12 p.m. GMT

Conchita Lopez in Hercule Poirot's Christmas? Conchita considered it fair game if her impersonation pleased a bored old man enough to win her a small legacy, but when some rightful heirs wanted to give her an equal share she felt like she was cheating.

HerculeJC 16 May 11 at 3:39 p.m. GMT

Sorry, NightRay, it is not Eileen Corrigan.

However, my character, like Eileen, is impersonating someone else, although she is prevented from receiving an inheritance.

NightRayDuck 16 May 11 at 5:27 a.m. GMT

character #2 may have been Eileen Corrigan in Taken at the Flood? succeeded in an impersonation, gained a fortune, and then started pitying the rightful heirs.

HerculeJC 14 May 11 at 6:39 p.m. GMT

Okay, so Character #1 has been guessed.

For Character #2, let me add to her "statements": "She's dead!!.......Yes, I it can be done........That went better than I hoped. HE seems quite taken by me......NO!! I can't allow it to occur!! They are all too kind and gracious to me!"

HerculeJC 14 May 11 at 5:18 a.m. GMT

Correct, NightRay, Character #1 is Carrie-Louise Serrocold, from They Do It With Mirrors.

Now who, do you think, is Character #2:

"She's dead!!.......Yes, I it can be done........That went better than I hoped.......NO!! I can't allow it to occur!!"

NOTE: for hints, I will add to each of the sentences, to "draw out" the person, some more.  Remember: these sentences are this person's thoughts, but at different times and places.

NightRayDuck 14 May 11 at 4:43 a.m. GMT

I think Character #1 might be Carrie-Louise Serrocold, in They Do It With Mirrors.

HerculeJC 13 May 11 at 8:34 a.m. GMT

Hi Nofret.

Sorry it is not Emily Arundell and Bella Tanios.

My characters are not from the same story.

However, they do have one thing in common about Emily Arundell and Bella Tanios.

Nofret 13 May 11 at 7:17 a.m. GMT

Emily Arundell and Bella Tanios?

HerculeJC 12 May 11 at 10:43 p.m. GMT

Here are TWO Characters:

CHARACTER #1:

I've had a good life: so proud of my family, good friends.  Yes, things are going well.

So it is really possible that someone might wish to kill me??

and

CHARACTER #2:  Hint: sentences/thoughts occur at various times:

"She's dead!!.......Yes, I it can be done........That went better than I hoped.......NO!!  I can't allow it to occur!!"

NightRayDuck 12 May 11 at 8:08 p.m. GMT

Yes, HerculeJC! This is Pat from A Pocket Full of Rye. Your turn. :)

HerculeJC 12 May 11 at 6:34 a.m. GMT

Could this be PATRICIA FORTESCUE, from A POCKET FULL OF RYE?

NightRayDuck 12 May 11 at 3:52 a.m. GMT

thank you, Hercule!

It feels as though ever since I've been an adult, I've brought bad luck to people around me. Or can it be true that I am one of those girls who always marries quite an unsuitable man? My current husband seems to be doing his best to go straight and steady and work diligently and settle down.. so the setback now must have been a run of bad luck.

HerculeJC 12 May 11 at 1:03 a.m. GMT

Yes, NightRay, it is Jason Rafiel, from A CARIBBEAN MYSTERY,

and whose instructions, delivered after his death, sent Miss Marple to investigate what really happened to Verity Hunter, in NEMESIS (and, hopefully, clear his son's name).

To Nofret: I hoped you would, soon, get the answer. 

NightRay: "Spot On"!!  Your turn!!

NightRayDuck 11 May 11 at 10:19 p.m. GMT

Mr. Jason Rafiel? noting that this would probably be his last vacation in the Caribbean, and making a note to himself that he would very much like to get Miss Marple to look into the case involving his son (investigation which is told in Nemesis)?

HerculeJC 11 May 11 at 9:09 p.m. GMT

You're getting close, Nofret.  My character appears in a MISS MARPLE Story, but it is not BELLE GOEDLER.

Reminder: My character is noting where he was in one story, and what needs to be done, for another story.

My last sentence should be "Yes, it will be done, by her.  I'll make sure of that".

Nofret 11 May 11 at 7:05 p.m. GMT

Is it Belle Goedler from A Murder is Announced? She knows she is near death and she is asking Inspector Craddock to protect Miss Blacklock.

HerculeJC 11 May 11 at 2:41 p.m. GMT

Sorry, it is NOT Samuel Ratchett, alias "Cassetti".

In fact, my character is NOT featured in any of the POIROT Stories.

Nofret 11 May 11 at 1:35 p.m. GMT

Well, it fits Ratchett/Cassetti in the IMO excellent adaptation with Suchet. He obviously recognises the people from his past, but thinks that if he can get to Calais and pay the money demanded, then his sins will be forgiven. Of course, in the book of MOTOE, he was unrepentant to the end.

HerculeJC 11 May 11 at 5:55 a.m. GMT

No, it is not Poirot. 

HINT: However, my character is about to experience the same thing that will happen to both Poirot and George Barton, but in a different circumstance, as I am "between stories".

Nofret 10 May 11 at 3:45 p.m. GMT

Is it Poirot in Curtain?

HerculeJC 10 May 11 at 5:26 a.m. GMT

Sorry, it is neither Audrey Strange, nor George Barton.

Good guesses, though.

Nofret 09 May 11 at 6:06 p.m. GMT

George Barton in Sparkling Cyanide?

Mr_Battle_Brent 09 May 11 at 5:56 p.m. GMT

Okay,let me make a firt guess:''Towards Zero'' character Audrey Strange.

HerculeJC 09 May 11 at 3:29 a.m. GMT

Here is the next puzzle:

"It has been so long since I was there, with all those people....But soon it will be over, too late....Therefore, I need to make sure that this gets done.

"Yes! it will get done, by...."

NightRayDuck 08 May 11 at 11:18 p.m. GMT

Yes, HerculeJC. The character is Albert Batt and discussing particularly the events in By the Pricking of My Thumbs. Well done. Your turn to set the next puzzle. :)

HerculeJC 07 May 11 at 4:53 p.m. GMT

My next guess, then, is BY THE PRICKING OF MY THUMBS, as Tommy's Aunt died.

NightRayDuck 06 May 11 at 9:37 p.m. GMT

hi HerculeJC - the character is Albert Batt, indeed! but the story is not Postern of Fate. I should explain that "the piece of old furniture" was brought home by Tommy who had recently inherited it. I hope that helps.

HerculeJC 06 May 11 at 7:01 p.m. GMT

I think this is ALBERT, who works with the Beresfords.  The story is, likely, POSTERN OF FATE, as Tommy and Tuppence had relocated to a seaside town.

NightRayDuck 03 May 11 at 7:52 p.m. GMT

well, next character up for guessing!

I have a long and adventurous career with my employers. And they're certainly quite clever people. Now, if only the master will pay attention while I demonstrate how to take apart the piece of old furniture that he'd brought home recently.. I am sure this is important.

NightRayDuck 03 May 11 at 7:48 p.m. GMT

Well, I figured patrons of village pubs would be free to exchange gossip, and any staff at the pub also quite free to tell patrons about various happenings when they stop by the pub. But for the manager to actually get away from workplace to give information to a local resident.. that, I think, is alarming. I mean, supposing the "stranger that just checked in" had been the direct heir of one late client of Mr. Jeremy Cloade, been away for many years but now here to settle his inheritance, and this Lippincott woman goes and tells some distant relatives in the village who would inherit if the direct heir had remained absent? 

Nofret 03 May 11 at 6:21 a.m. GMT

Yes, it is Beatrice Lippincott, previously suspected of having a child out of wedlock.

Village pubs are so notorious for being hot-beds of gossip it's a wonder Miss Marple wasn't a regular! I can just see her sitting in the corner with a small sherry and taking everything in!

I think Ray would be a preferable name - the other 2 have unfortunate connotations!

NightRayDuck 02 May 11 at 6:56 p.m. GMT

Miss Beatrice Lippincott, inn manager eager to tell Mr. Rowley Cloade about a certain stranger who just checked in, in Taken at the Flood?

(I've been wondering, wouldn't inns need a little reputation for discretion?)

By the way, Miss Nofret, you're welcome to call me Nighty or Ducky or Ray-yyy (oops too many y's). The abbreviation puts me in mind of "nerd", and if I see it used regularly for many more weeks, I shall have to wrench my little grey cells to come up with a fun user name containing "nerd". (Pls. see discussion in Off Topic Discussions.)

Nofret 02 May 11 at 7:20 a.m. GMT

Not Mrs McNaughton, NRD. The "special person" in this case is a member of the opposite sex!

NightRayDuck 02 May 11 at 3:55 a.m. GMT

aww.. I forgot her name.. Mrs. Mac-someone, wife of the retired professor, in The Clocks? She likes gossipping.. and she has a habit that's subject to being gossipped. I am not sure if she'd see anyone as a "very special person", though. 

Nofret 30 Apr 11 at 12:08 p.m. GMT

Not Doctor Oldfield, unlike him this person wasn't averse to a bit of gossiping themselves!

Mr_Battle_Brent 30 Apr 11 at 11:02 a.m. GMT

Doctor Charles Oldfield from The Lernaean Hydra. The most obvious guess.

Nofret 29 Apr 11 at 6:59 a.m. GMT

Really! Do people in this village have nothing better to do than gossip! It's completely untrue, what they say about me! Anyway, from what I hear, certain folk have their own skeletons in the closet, and there's a very special person who will be grateful for this information..........

cameronjhw 28 Apr 11 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

Elementary Nofret it is the complaining and hypochondriac husband Alfred Cayley

Hope you come up with a good one....

Nofret 28 Apr 11 at 11:49 a.m. GMT

Aha! Is it Alfred Cayley?

NightRayDuck 27 Apr 11 at 9:35 p.m. GMT

in bytPrikngofmyThumb, Tommy Beresford did complain that Tuppence talked too much when she showed up in N or M! and Beresford and Bletchley both start with the letter B, yes?

 I found a likely-looking character in my unreliable reference book, but from the character listing, there seemed to be fully 4 other male characters not yet mentioned, and I don't remember anything from N or M, so I don't like to use that piece of information. But I'll list his characteristics, in case they remind Nofret of anyone...

this character is married, is present at the place with his wife, complains often about his imaginary ailments, so to keep his wife close by him all the time?

cameronjhw 27 Apr 11 at 4:28 p.m. GMT

No, not Commander Haydock. This leaves you with only two remaning male characters....

Nofret 27 Apr 11 at 7:58 a.m. GMT

Commander Haydock?

cameronjhw 26 Apr 11 at 5:15 p.m. GMT

Nofret you are correct it is from N or M? But it is not Major Bletchley. You are so close to the right character

Nofret 26 Apr 11 at 9:50 a.m. GMT

Is the lady who talks too much Tuppence? I'm guessing the book is N or M, is the character Major Bletchley?

NightRayDuck 26 Apr 11 at 5:06 a.m. GMT

Capt. whathisname.. Robert Gardner? husband of Aunt Jennifer to the suspects in The Sittaford Mystery?

cameronjhw 23 Apr 11 at 6:41 p.m. GMT

A good guess but it's not Timothy.

Nofret 23 Apr 11 at 12:37 p.m. GMT

Married and demanding his medicine - is it Timothy Abernethie?

cameronjhw 22 Apr 11 at 9:52 p.m. GMT

Not old Mr. Rafiel although he would fit the description all right but for my next hint this character is married.

NightRayDuck 22 Apr 11 at 4:02 a.m. GMT

old Mr. Jason Rafiel in A Caribbean Mystery? I forget his exact lines of business, but he's likely to discount the opinions from gossipping travelers.

cameronjhw 20 Apr 11 at 10:33 p.m. GMT

Good Guess but it's not Captain Wyatt.

NightRayDuck 20 Apr 11 at 4:10 a.m. GMT

Captain Wyatt in The Sittaford Mystery?

I thought this character sounded quite similar to one of those voluble old bogey umm I mean talkative retired elderly gentlemen, but it's some time before I could think of one that would go through so many topics in one paragraph.

cameronjhw 19 Apr 11 at 10:26 p.m. GMT

I'm sorry but it is not Carrie Louise, Lord Caterham, Prof. Shoreham, Miss Holland, or Miss Grriffth.

Hint-This character is a male

HerculeJC 19 Apr 11 at 6:39 a.m. GMT

Could it be Carrie Louise Serrocold, from THEY DO IT WITH MIRRORS?

NightRayDuck 18 Apr 11 at 10:44 p.m. GMT

Thinking of this not being Lord Caterham, I ended up feeling this character has a few similarities to Professor Robert Shoreham in Passenger to Frankfurt. Still doesn't fit, though. Professor Shoreham was a scientist in biology and chemicals and such, not an international relations expert..

NightRayDuck 18 Apr 11 at 10:37 p.m. GMT

It wouldn't be the Lord Caterham present in The Secret of Chimneys.. Lord Caterham doesn't care about international conflicts at all, and diplomacy or other countries had not been his business at any point in his life. (His deceased older brother would've been the one.) and Lord Caterham enjoys chattering and charming ladies, and doesn't need any medicine that I know of..

Nofret 18 Apr 11 at 7:52 p.m. GMT

Is it Lord Caterham from The Secret of Chimneys?

Mr_Battle_Brent 18 Apr 11 at 5:27 p.m. GMT

The Moving Finger:Miss Holland or Aimee Griffith

cameronjhw 18 Apr 11 at 3:53 p.m. GMT

I'm  sorry no one got it the character I had in mind was the devoted maid Elizabeth from the story Where There's a Will aka Wireless when she was sad over the death of her mistress Mary Harter.

I'll describe another character hopefully this one won't be so tough:

"How can I get any peace and quiet in this place with the news we have been receiving lately although I am of the opinion that they are putting too much stuff and nonsense into this international conflict. I should know what some of those countries are talking about since it was at one time my business...The new arrivals seem all right the lady does too much talking...now where did she go off to it's time for my medicine.

Mr_Battle_Brent 18 Apr 11 at 2:42 p.m. GMT

25 Mar 2011,that's sad. I think no one got it. But it would be a shame if the game ended.Could you write the answers camerinjhw and describe another character?

cameronjhw 25 Mar 11 at 10:54 p.m. GMT

No to both. It is not Miss Howard or the maid to Virginia. This character comes from a short story

Nofret 24 Mar 11 at 12:38 p.m. GMT

It could be Evelyn Howard thinking aloud.........

NightRayDuck 24 Mar 11 at 6:41 a.m. GMT

...not Louise (or whatever name the lady's maid to Virginia Revel) in The Secret of Chimneys, I think.. the incident in which Louise and the whole household staff was involved in, was not so complex as this clue. hmm.

cameronjhw 22 Mar 11 at 3:12 p.m. GMT

No it is not Elinor Carlisle however I will give a hint and say this person is a servant

Nofret 20 Mar 11 at 8:15 p.m. GMT

Elinor Carlisle from Sad Cypress?

cameronjhw 19 Mar 11 at 5:42 p.m. GMT

"Oh dear oh dear...I somehow felt something like this would happen....especially after the way she has been acting and the things she has said recently...maybe I should have come back I could have done something...now I guess I must do what she asked me to do...however I wonder if maybe he might know something about this...."

GKCfan 17 Mar 11 at 6:09 p.m. GMT

Yes!  It's Hori from Death Comes as the End!

cameronjhw 17 Mar 11 at 1:41 p.m. GMT

Could it be Edith de Havilland from Crooked House, Miss Marple from Murder with Mirrors, or Hori from Death Comes as the End

Nofret 17 Mar 11 at 9:44 a.m. GMT

Is it Dr. Gerard from Appointment with Death?

GKCfan 16 Mar 11 at 10:51 p.m. GMT

"I'm good at fixing things, and I might be able to fix this situation, but I don't think that I can fix this family... the damage is too severe.  The best I can hope for is a happy ending for myself and the people I love... at least the ones who are still alive.  Unfortunately, I may have to get my hands a little dirty... or perhaps a little bloody..."

Nofret 16 Mar 11 at 7:19 a.m. GMT

Yes, well done, GKCfan. Modern equivalent is, of couse, Ian Hislop, editor of Private Eye!

Your turn.

GKCfan 16 Mar 11 at 3:23 a.m. GMT

Percy Perry from "The Augean Stables?"

Nofret 15 Mar 11 at 11:33 p.m. GMT

Yes, of course, Miss E!

Now which particular dirt digger is it?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 15 Mar 11 at 3:54 p.m. GMT

Journalist?

Nofret 15 Mar 11 at 2:25 p.m. GMT

Not Mr Eccles.

Clue - Christie herself was given a hard time by members of this character's profession.

NightRayDuck 14 Mar 11 at 9:54 p.m. GMT

horse dealer?  ..checks the Christie timeline.. I mean second-hand car dealer? 

not lawyer? I was about to say Mr. Eccles from By the Pricking of My Thumbs..

what is a panel game?

Nofret 14 Mar 11 at 7:34 p.m. GMT

No, even lower than an estate agent! This was a question at our pub quiz recently - what do British people think is the least trustworthy profession? (I said lawyer and I was wrong!)

The "little Belgie" (in a short story) would have said "I do not approve of blackmail"

Miss_Eylesbarrow 14 Mar 11 at 11:07 a.m. GMT

Estate agent?

Nofret 14 Mar 11 at 9:42 a.m. GMT

Even more untrustworthy than a politician, if that's possible!

Clue - someone from the UK's favourite panel game is a modern equivalent of this person!

NightRayDuck 13 Mar 11 at 10:17 p.m. GMT

hmm.. politician? that'd explain the mention about serving Joe Public..

Nofret 13 Mar 11 at 10:04 a.m. GMT

Not Frank Carter GKCfan.

DK - you're on the right lines. Now, what is the profession that is mistrusted by virtually eveyone?

GKCfan 13 Mar 11 at 1:41 a.m. GMT

Is it Frank Carter from One, Two, Buckle My Shoe?

NightRayDuck 13 Mar 11 at 12:20 a.m. GMT

hmm... unreliable builder, blackmailing bartender, short-changing greengrocer, thieving servant, bribe-taking cop, people of that sort?

Nofret 12 Mar 11 at 11:59 a.m. GMT

Unreliable certainly, but I don't think there was ever a practical side to his communism.

 Clue - sadly there are too many like this person around nowadays.

GKCfan 11 Mar 11 at 9:41 p.m. GMT

Ferguson/Dawlish in Death on the Nile?  He's told by Cornelia in no uncertain terms that he's not reliable...

Nofret 11 Mar 11 at 8:47 p.m. GMT

No, this person is not at all dependable!

NightRayDuck 11 Mar 11 at 8:28 p.m. GMT

...the ever-dependable Mr. Parker Pyne? 

..runs and hides..

Nofret 11 Mar 11 at 1:24 p.m. GMT

Thank you, DK.

I'm not one of your hoity-toity toffs, all dolled up like that funny little Belgie! I'm an honest working man - yes, honest -  dedicated to giving Joe Public what he wants. Not to say that I don't manage to pocket a few extra quid on the side......

NightRayDuck 11 Mar 11 at 4:11 a.m. GMT

Yes, this is David Keeley! The tragic thing is that his guests don't even need to try to ignore him. Possibly some guests tried to find him and greet him first before being swept up in his daughter greeting the guests. Well, anyhow.. well done, Nofret! Over to you.

Nofret 10 Mar 11 at 9:26 a.m. GMT

Is it David Keeley from The Bird with the Broken Wing? (Ignore your host at your peril!)

Mr_Graves 10 Mar 11 at 6 a.m. GMT

My first thought was Lady Tressilian from "Towards Zero", the male friend being Mr Treves.... But then, I'm not so sure that would work, because I don't think she went downstairs to her guests very much...

NightRayDuck 10 Mar 11 at 2:09 a.m. GMT

You know, it's getting rather unsettling, the way that nobody notices me even when I am hosting a party in my own house. And it's not simply the rudeness of young people! Even an elderly friend with very correct social etiquette didn't notice me until I gave him my greetings.   

Miss_Eylesbarrow 09 Mar 11 at 11:10 a.m. GMT

Jane Marple would have been just too easy, but it struck me as I listend to The Sittaford Mystery recently how well the description of Mr Rycroft could be confused with the marvelous Miss M!  Well done Darknight, Mr Rycroft it is.  Your turn!

NightRayDuck 08 Mar 11 at 4:12 a.m. GMT

hi Miss E, is any of us getting closer yet? because I am thinking of submitting Mr. Rycroft of The Sittaford Mystery. he may not be entirely as intelligent and useful as stated, but his own opinion of himself certainly fits.

cameronjhw 03 Mar 11 at 9:23 p.m. GMT

This is an easy one are you the elderly but intelligent spinister Miss Jane Marple who is interested in human nature and the activities that take place in St. Mary Mead

Miss_Eylesbarrow 03 Mar 11 at 11:32 a.m. GMT

Excellent!  I love Spider's Web, I'd love to see it as a play sometime. 

As an 'older person' I naturally have a great experience of human nature, but more  than that, I have made it a personal study too.  Of my other hobbies, one of them in particular featured largely in the events which took place in our little village.  It was an interesting time and so nice to be able to talk things over with such intelligent young people.

GKCfan 01 Mar 11 at 7:03 p.m. GMT

Yes!  You're right!  It's Clarissa- great work- sorry for the delayed response.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 01 Mar 11 at 10:37 a.m. GMT

How are we doing GKC?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 22 Feb 11 at 10:45 a.m. GMT

Is it Clarissa Hailsham Brown from Spider's Web?

GKCfan 22 Feb 11 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

"Everybody thinks that I have a habit of lying, but that's not so!  Not exactly...  I mean, I do exaggerate a bit, but everybody does.  I have told a big lie recently, but it's to help someone I love, and anyway I tried telling the truth and they didn't believe me!"

NightRayDuck 21 Feb 11 at 4:17 p.m. GMT

Yes, GKCfan! This is poor Major Horton who had been quite happy with his wife even though others thought she was a bully, and nowadays, as Luke Fitzwilliam had seen several times, Major Horton is often futilely shouting at his bull dogs. Your turn! 

Apologies first to all friends who play these quiz games, for what I am about to say...

Christie stories are often crowded with minor characters who didn't participate in the crime in question, didn't even know that they, or their family member, had been victims of a cunning criminal. Why, then, to think first of the cunning, lying criminal and then to dig between the lines of the puzzle for lies and deception? Rather than, say, analyze every item stated in the puzzle, and then think if it fits an innocent character outright, or if it fits better the pretense put on by a cunning criminal? 

GKCfan 21 Feb 11 at 6:40 a.m. GMT

Is it Major Horton from Murder is Easy?

NightRayDuck 21 Feb 11 at 6:30 a.m. GMT

Not short story! This character is from a novel.

hint #2: This character is not one of the major characters in the novel. His wife was one of several victims chosen by a very odd qualification and for a very odd motive. If this character were to be heard to comment at the end of the story, it might be: People always gossip! Since my wife died, they just had to say that if she had been murdered, I must have been the murderer. Until that neighbor got arrested... not even the doctor had doubts about my wife's cause of death. I didn't have doubts. If only I had known, and refused to let that neighbor into the house...  

GKCfan 21 Feb 11 at 6:02 a.m. GMT

Is this from a short story?

NightRayDuck 21 Feb 11 at 5:13 a.m. GMT

ah, ok! well, I could give a general hint about the role of this character in the story. or I could ask the character to chatter a little more about his wife... who was very unjustly taken out of his life forever.

My wife was ill and the doctors didn't understand her illness! Many neighbors liked to say that she bullied me and any hospital nurse that came to stay in our house and took care of her; well, she wasn't strong physically, she had to make her needs known promptly. Why, someone reputedly said that the pets in my house "brightened up at once" after my wife died! That's absolute nonsense. My wife was strong-willed, too, perhaps an even better disciplinarian than I could ever be... Nowadays I am often observed shouting at the pets when I take them out for walks, and the pets wouldn't listen, they're just rather wild nowadays. 

general hint: try to put specific identities to the various neighbors described in the first installment of the clue.

GKCfan 20 Feb 11 at 11:37 p.m. GMT

I need another hint!  The phrase "My wife is a wonderful woman" is familar but I can't place it!

NightRayDuck 20 Feb 11 at 10:24 p.m. GMT

...is this one extra-puzzling again? please do tune down your trick-searching ability once in a while, especially when I state it as an easy one... this character here is telling all he knows until the very end of the story.

NightRayDuck 17 Feb 11 at 7:20 p.m. GMT

I'll do an easy one. 

My wife was a wonderful woman, amazing! Such fortitude despite all her ailments. I really have enormous respect for her, you know. She was a real lady of good breeding, old family, still quite comfortably off, not like some spinster neighbors who've been reduced to living in cottages. And certainly not like the low-class guy who had managed to make a whole lot of money and then had come back trying to lord over everyone, being beneficent, he thinks!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 17 Feb 11 at 9:51 a.m. GMT

New question anyone?

Nofret 29 Jan 11 at 5:42 p.m. GMT

Well done, Fiona, it is indeed Miss Muriel Wills, alias Antony Astor.

Your turn now.

fiona_m 29 Jan 11 at 2:16 p.m. GMT

Is it Miss Muirel Wills, from Three Act Tragedy?

MissQuin 29 Jan 11 at 11:03 a.m. GMT

I love these comments. Mind you Mr Satterthwaite keep himself busy, Gentleman Of Leisure is the polite title Nofret  

Is it the fabulous MrPye? His gossiping could have got him in trouble, although he sexuality is hardly in doubt. His antique business did well though.

Nofret 29 Jan 11 at 10:59 a.m. GMT

No, Bunch, Mr Satterthwaite was definitely one of the idle rich, as was Mr Shaitana. This person had similar interests to Mr S, but avoided his fate by listening to some good advice.

NightRayDuck 28 Jan 11 at 9:50 p.m. GMT

I haven't read any Parker Pyne yet, so I do not know the disposition and reputation of the gentleman; but I should say that Mr. Satterthwaite had no particular bad habit that could be definitely frowned upon by any of his acquaintances...

How about the creepy Mr. Shaitana from Cards on the Table? He sported a Prince-of-Hell style of fashion, and enjoyed making people feel that he probably knew their dangerously dirty secrets.

Bunch_Marple 28 Jan 11 at 6:12 p.m. GMT

I would say Mr Satterwaite, but he never worked..

Nofret 28 Jan 11 at 5:58 p.m. GMT

He might fit, though I think there's no doubt he batted for the other side! No, it's not Ellsworthy.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 28 Jan 11 at 12:28 p.m. GMT

Are you creepy Mr Ellsworthy from Murder is Easy?

Nofret 28 Jan 11 at 8:53 a.m. GMT

It's not Parker Pyne, and there is no record of any love interest for this person.

Bunch_Marple 27 Jan 11 at 10:40 a.m. GMT

Haha Nofret, I think it would take more than a drop of the hard stuff for poor Louise!

Could it be Parker Pyne? May I ask if we the reader have ever seen you in love if that isn't too personal?

Nofret 27 Jan 11 at 10:20 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Bunch Marple.

I suppose that nowadays you would question my sexual orientation, and it's true that I never married. My profession has kept me busy, and I now enjoy a measure of success. But a certain habit of mine has made me rather unpopular with others.

Hope you feel better soon, Bunch. Try a hot toddy with honey, lemon, and a dash of the hard stuff!

Bunch_Marple 26 Jan 11 at 7:19 p.m. GMT

Yes Nofret! And I have a very sore throat at the moment, so forgive me if I can't talk now!

Nofret 26 Jan 11 at 7:15 p.m. GMT

Is it Linnet's maid Louise Bourget from Death on the Nile?

Bunch_Marple 26 Jan 11 at 7 p.m. GMT

No, although my employer probably wont be taking anymore trips after the last. And nor will I!

NightRayDuck 26 Jan 11 at 2:42 p.m. GMT

Alice Clayton in the short story "The Voice in the Dark"? The last trip was probably a long time ago, though.

Bunch_Marple 26 Jan 11 at 1:36 p.m. GMT

PAH! I have standards, I do not serve breakfast in the small house of old ladies! And thank you, I could have been anything I wanted if I too had been born to money like my feckless, selfish employer!

My employer was well travelled yes, though on our last trip we did have company

NightRayDuck 26 Jan 11 at 1:08 p.m. GMT

oh and, how come we've all fixed on women in domestic positions? couldn't this be a secretary like whathisname "Hector McQuinn" in Murder on the Orient Express? although I think his salary might be higher...

NightRayDuck 26 Jan 11 at 12:23 p.m. GMT

Does the employer get around quite a lot? I was thinking Mitzi in A Murder Is Announced might fit the clue, but Miss Blacklock doesn't travel much these days.

Bunch_Marple 26 Jan 11 at 9:55 a.m. GMT

No, although I do enjoy hot climes I have to go where my employer goes...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 26 Jan 11 at 9:16 a.m. GMT

is it Victoria from A Caribbean Mystery?

Bunch_Marple 25 Jan 11 at 10:51 p.m. GMT

No GKC I would never have talked with such a sniffly woman and that dreadful old hag she cared for...

GKCfan 25 Jan 11 at 9:41 p.m. GMT

Miss Bowers in Death on the Nile?

Bunch_Marple 25 Jan 11 at 6:51 p.m. GMT

No, I was a little more travelled than these ladies

Miss_Eylesbarrow 25 Jan 11 at 10:04 a.m. GMT

Mary Dove in A Pocket Full of Rye?

Nofret 25 Jan 11 at 9:39 a.m. GMT

Midge Hardcastle and her unpleasant employer in The Hollow?

Bunch_Marple 24 Jan 11 at 7:54 p.m. GMT

No, Never been there, sorry

Nofret 24 Jan 11 at 3:57 p.m. GMT

Is it Miss Cresswell from Greenshaw's Folly?

Bunch_Marple 24 Jan 11 at 10:58 a.m. GMT

My employer is so mean. I work so hard for so little and they think they can command my loyalty, at all times. Ha!

Sorry for the lateness, I didnt realise Id given the correct solution!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 24 Jan 11 at 10:21 a.m. GMT

Bunch_Marple, are you setting a new question for us, please?

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Jan 11 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

I should have put speech marks as I had intended for it to be Miss Hinchcliffe speaking Discribing Miss Murgatroyed but you are right, Bunch_Marple. Well Done your Turn.

Bunch_Marple 15 Jan 11 at 1:03 a.m. GMT

Miss Murgatrod from Announced?

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Jan 11 at 3:23 p.m. GMT

I can't think of a difficult one so sorry in advance

She is a Muddle-Headed old thing but a Good sort, and If anybody touched a Hair on her Head I would ring Their Neck

Nofret 13 Jan 11 at 6:21 p.m. GMT

Well done, Tommy, it is indeed Imhotep, and my namesake is his little self-indulgence!

Over to you!

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Jan 11 at 5:02 p.m. GMT

Is it Imhotep in Death Comes As The End?

Bunch_Marple 13 Jan 11 at 4:03 p.m. GMT

Is he from a Marple/Poirot story or something else? I really cant think of many rich old men from the books, which is surprising!

Nofret 13 Jan 11 at 12:04 p.m. GMT

That's very well reasoned, Darknight, unfortunately not Old Crackenthorpe. This person is a lot older.

NightRayDuck 12 Jan 11 at 11:50 p.m. GMT

Could be father of Luther Crackenthorpe? the man who built the Crackenthorpe business and made all the money that now Luther can't spend and his sons are squealing for? the old businessman is only mentioned in retrospect in 4.50 from Paddington, but his will limiting Luther to a lifetime income, passing the inheritance to Luther's offspring, is an important factor in the murder motive.

Nofret 12 Jan 11 at 11:31 p.m. GMT

No, not Rex Fortescue.

Bunch_Marple 12 Jan 11 at 5:11 p.m. GMT

Rex from Pocket full of Rye?

Nofret 12 Jan 11 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

No, not Simeon Lee, and Poirot does not appear in the book.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 12 Jan 11 at 12:41 p.m. GMT

Simeon Lee in HPs Christmas?

Nofret 12 Jan 11 at 11:45 a.m. GMT

No, it's not Aristide Leonides.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 12 Jan 11 at 10:01 a.m. GMT

Is it Aristide Leionides from The Crooked House?

Nofret 12 Jan 11 at 9:21 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Bunch Marple!

Having worked hard all my life to become a successful businessman I feel I am now entitled to a little self-indulgence. But my sons are as ungrateful as they are incompetent!

Bunch_Marple 11 Jan 11 at 10:18 p.m. GMT

Nofret my hat is off to you! well done! over to you...

Nofret 11 Jan 11 at 4:40 p.m. GMT

Miss Johnson from Murder in Mesopotamia?

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Jan 11 at 4:37 p.m. GMT

Is it Mrs Otterbourne (Death ON The Nile)

Miss_Eylesbarrow 11 Jan 11 at 4:04 p.m. GMT

Is she a housekeeper?

Bunch_Marple 11 Jan 11 at 3:43 p.m. GMT

No, she isn't from any Marple :)

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Jan 11 at 3:27 p.m. GMT

Is it Mrs Lestrange in Murder At The Vicarage?

Bunch_Marple 11 Jan 11 at 3:11 p.m. GMT

Yes, she's a female, secondary character!

Nofret 11 Jan 11 at 11:17 a.m. GMT

Alistair Blunt in One, Two, Buckle my Shoe?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 11 Jan 11 at 9:18 a.m. GMT

is this a female character?

Bunch_Marple 09 Jan 11 at 3:51 p.m. GMT

Nofret, it was easier when we had eliminated all the Poirot and Marples!

No sorry, that isn't the character I had in mind..

Nofret 09 Jan 11 at 10:47 a.m. GMT

Well done, Bunch Marple! That one had me really puzzled - I never thought of Hugo!

Is your character Lady Westholme from Appointment with Death?

Bunch_Marple 08 Jan 11 at 9:43 p.m. GMT

This will be terribly easy but here goes...

Im a well travelled, no-nonsense sort of person. I do my job well and want to do what's best in the end. I suffer for it in the end though..

GKCfan 08 Jan 11 at 9:10 p.m. GMT

Are you sure?  Welcome to the boards, Bunch_Marple!  Why don't you take a little while to think of a character– any character– from a Christie book, and write a few sentences about the character describing his or her role in the story?  It's nice to have new people joining in on this game!

Bunch_Marple 08 Jan 11 at 8:41 p.m. GMT

Oh Im really happy! I just joined yesterdat so still getting into the swing! You do another one, that last one really got me racking my memory! :)

GKCfan 08 Jan 11 at 8:37 p.m. GMT

Yes!  That is right, it's Hugo from ATTWN!  Great job!  Your turn now!

Bunch_Marple 08 Jan 11 at 8:30 p.m. GMT

Oh is it Hugo Hamilton from And The There Were None, who lost his nephew and girlfriend on the same day and relates his story to the Judge some time later?

GKCfan 08 Jan 11 at 8:17 a.m. GMT

No, sorry.  It's not Col. Armstrong.  This character is not from a Poirot book.

Bunch_Marple 08 Jan 11 at 4:46 a.m. GMT

I may well be wrong but I was immediately struck thinking the Father of the kidnapped armstrong baby in Murder on the Orient express?

Although he loses his wife and child, Im not sure if this happens on the same day...

GKCfan 06 Jan 11 at 9:41 p.m. GMT

No, sorry.  The character is not from a Miss Marple story.

Nofret 06 Jan 11 at 12:21 p.m. GMT

Is it Marina Gregg's disabled child in The Mirror Cracked?

GKCfan 06 Jan 11 at 5:25 a.m. GMT

No, sorry.  Hint: this a not a murder victim.

NightRayDuck 06 Jan 11 at 12:09 a.m. GMT

Verity Hunt from Nemesis?

GKCfan 05 Jan 11 at 11:30 p.m. GMT

Sorry, no.

biggles_aristide 05 Jan 11 at 10:07 p.m. GMT

Amyas Crale?

biggles_aristide 05 Jan 11 at 10:06 p.m. GMT

Amyas Crale?

GKCfan 05 Jan 11 at 8:25 p.m. GMT

"Although I only appear in flashbacks and in other people's imaginations and memories, I am a very real person.   I was known to have loved two people, but one day I lost them both in different ways.  It's not clear what happened to me, but my story probably doesn't have a happy ending..."

Nofret 05 Jan 11 at 9:45 a.m. GMT

Yes, you're correct, GKCfan, Mrs Rymer it is!

Over to you!

GKCfan 05 Jan 11 at 6:02 a.m. GMT

Mrs. Abner Rymer from "The Case of the Rich Woman?"  I don't think that Deirdre Crozier wore a fur coat in Rhodesia in "While the Light Lasts."

Nofret 04 Jan 11 at 9:56 p.m. GMT

Good guess, Darknight, Jennifer Fortescue definitely had a negative self-image. But this character is from a short story.

NightRayDuck 03 Jan 11 at 10:08 p.m. GMT

I can't remember the type of outfit exactly, but I am thinking the character might be Mrs. Val from A Pocketful of Rye. (I can't remember the husband's surname, either, even tho it's same as the victim's surname.) 

Nofret 03 Jan 11 at 6:55 p.m. GMT

GKCfan, no,it's not Rosaleen.

Darknight, ha ha very funny! Think it was actually a mink!

NightRayDuck 02 Jan 11 at 11:44 p.m. GMT

For a moment, I thought the character meant that she's wearing fur coat made of cow-hide...

GKCfan 02 Jan 11 at 11:32 p.m. GMT

Rosaleen from Taken at the Flood?

Nofret 02 Jan 11 at 6:02 p.m. GMT

Thank you GCKfan.

"Oh, God, I look such a fright in this fur coat, no wonder all those snooty cows laugh at me.  I should be happy and contented with my life now that money worries are a thing of the past. But I feel so alone......."

GKCfan 02 Jan 11 at 12:17 a.m. GMT

Yes, Norfret!  Good work!

Nofret 01 Jan 11 at 8:24 p.m. GMT

Is it M. Giraud of the French Police from Murder on the Links?

GKCfan 31 Dec 10 at 7:30 a.m. GMT

Sorry, the character isn't royalty, a powerful politician, or a military leader, but the character is in a position of some authority.

NightRayDuck 31 Dec 10 at 6:57 a.m. GMT

Someone who's appeared only once, but been mentioned later a few times, has a nemesis, and has enough finances to suffer a little strain... (instead of going bankrupt altogether, that is). I think Mr. Robinson's line of work is more like, get people to spend enough money to solve the problem they're asking him to solve. Also I am not sure Mr. Robinson would've ever made his dislikes obvious. And I don't think we had an opportunity to meet Mr. Robinson's nemesis. hmm.

I got an odd feeling that this character may be royalty, powerful politician, military leader, or some such...

GKCfan 30 Dec 10 at 8:16 p.m. GMT

No, it isn't, sorry.  Remember, this character has actually appeared in only one book, but the character has been referenced in at least two later tales.

cameronjhw 30 Dec 10 at 3:17 p.m. GMT

Is it the mysterious Mr. Robinson who appeared in Cat Among the Pigeons, At Bertram's Hotel, Postern of Fate and I think Passenger to Frankfurt

GKCfan 29 Dec 10 at 9:25 p.m. GMT

"I do not like that little man at all, and he has placed a little strain on my finances.  Although I make only one appearance, I am referred to at least twice more in later novels, and my nemesis mentions once that the two of us worked together on a case during the Second World War, which is possible, although he could have just used my name in a lie during his investigation– he's used tricks like that before."

Mr_Graves 29 Dec 10 at 7:07 p.m. GMT

It was just too easy, wasn't it? Yes, it is Muriel Wills, although I would also have accepted Anthony Astor. Your turn...

GKCfan 28 Dec 10 at 9:40 p.m. GMT

Miss Wills in Murder in Three Acts?

Mr_Graves 28 Dec 10 at 8:14 p.m. GMT

Great! Here is my clue...

I am quite confident in my knowledge of things, and I am enjoying keeping it to myself. Something tells me I might have just solved the murders, but I can't seem to piece together what I know...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 28 Dec 10 at 4:19 p.m. GMT

Yes, Mr Graves, you got it!

Mr_Graves 25 Dec 10 at 7:18 p.m. GMT

Oh dear! So sorry, but I got a little confused, and thought I was guessing the book. My proper answer should be Lavinia Pinkerton, from "Murder is Easy". 

Mr_Graves 25 Dec 10 at 5:35 a.m. GMT

Hmmm.... Could it be "Murder is Easy"? Lavinia Pinkerton was concerned about all of the deaths in Wychwood-under-Ashe, and she is making an urgent train journey into London to see Scotland Yard about it. I really loved this book! Am I correct?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 24 Dec 10 at 10:10 a.m. GMT

I'm really worried about things in our village.  I can see who must be responsible but I don't have any proof.  It's a queer motive I must say, I just hope I can get someone to believe my story in time....

GKCfan 23 Dec 10 at 7:56 p.m. GMT

Yes!  You are right!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 23 Dec 10 at 9:47 a.m. GMT

Ah, just had a brainwave, is it Five little Pigs?  It's Meredith Blake talking about Phillip.  Meredith had an interest in science which he abandoned.

GKCfan 22 Dec 10 at 9:52 p.m. GMT

No, not Styles.  This book was published well over a decade after Styles and over a decade before Curtain.  This book also does not have any major recurring characters other then Poirot.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 20 Dec 10 at 9:21 a.m. GMT

is it from Styles?  One of the brothers trained to be a doctor but didn't make it, is it then Lawrence Cavendish about his brother John?

GKCfan 17 Dec 10 at 7:53 a.m. GMT

No, no one from Taken at the Flood, but it is a Poirot novel.  The character in question is not a doctor.

NightRayDuck 17 Dec 10 at 6:06 a.m. GMT

I can't think of many sets of brothers in stories with a recurring detective... a random one that comes to mind would be Dr. Lionel Cloade in Taken at the Flood, but I think his interest in science is more like, dampened by bad habits acquired during stressful times, rather than simply dead. 

GKCfan 16 Dec 10 at 8:03 p.m. GMT

No to both, sorry.  The speaker is a man.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 16 Dec 10 at 10:42 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Is it Caroline Sheppard from Murder of Roger Ackroyd?  Can't think what her interest in science would be though..

NightRayDuck 16 Dec 10 at 2:12 a.m. GMT

I thought perhaps Carol Boynton from Appointment with Death, discussing her brother Raymond, but I can't think of Carol having any interest in science. Nadine (Mrs. Leonard Boynton) had studied to be a nurse, but I thought she'd know more about Leonard than about Raymond; and similarly Carol knew more about Raymond's recent thoughts and activities than she did about Leonard's. hmm. 

GKCfan 14 Dec 10 at 8:34 p.m. GMT

No, it's not a Miss Marple novel.  The relative who's lying here is a brother...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 14 Dec 10 at 9:31 a.m. GMT

a long shot: The Moving Finger? 

GKCfan 14 Dec 10 at 6:09 a.m. GMT

Neither, sorry.  This comes from a book with a recurring detective.

NightRayDuck 14 Dec 10 at 2:45 a.m. GMT

I thought this might be Theresa Arundell discussing her brother Charles Arundell in Dumb Witness. 

Miss_Eylesbarrow 10 Dec 10 at 9:57 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Is it from Destination Unknown, the mysterious Andrew Peters aka Boris Glydr, in reference to his deceased sister?

GKCfan 08 Dec 10 at 5:27 a.m. GMT

I hate to accuse a member of my own family of lying, but he's not telling the truth about his feelings here.  Anyway, now that my interest in science is dead, I can't help but wonder... could he be lying about more than his emotions?

NightRayDuck 08 Dec 10 at 3:08 a.m. GMT

Yes, GKC! It is Lady Lucy, always wandering around her house and picking up various things for no purpose that she could think of. Quite a good excuse if she got the opportunity to pull off the "little accident".

Your turn!

GKCfan 07 Dec 10 at 5:25 a.m. GMT

Lucy Angatell from The Hollow?

NightRayDuck 05 Dec 10 at 9:47 p.m. GMT

Ah! I knew there was something I was forgetting about striking-looking women.

Next character puzzle...

I've been worried... my father's estate passed to my cousin rather than me, but now my cousin hasn't got a direct heir, and the estate's probably going to the next cousin who is simply very awkward and contrary and really most unsuitable for the estate. I wonder... perhaps I can engineer a little accident to change the situation?

Nofret 05 Dec 10 at 9:21 p.m. GMT

Well done, Darknight, it is indeed Mr Jessop. (And Hilary Craven had a beautiful head of red hair)

Lay off the leftover turkey!

Your turn! 

NightRayDuck 05 Dec 10 at 9:01 p.m. GMT

I am absolutely certain that I am forgetting the identity and the activities of the striking-looking woman. And, so, I also feel that I don't know who this character is, who feels extremely good with job-related skills... my brain feels like a soup cooked from leftover tofurkey.

Unless Hilary Craven counts as a striking-looking woman? (My impression was that her attitude was much more striking, at the time, than her looks.) In which case, I'd guess the character speaking to be Mr. Jessop from Destination Unknown.

Nofret 01 Dec 10 at 10:41 p.m. GMT

Thank you, Darknight!

I'm nothing remarkable to look at, you'd probably pass me by in the street without a second glance. But I happen to know that I am extremely good at my line of work - among other skills I am particularly proud of my ability to read body language. That striking-looking woman, for example, I can tell just what she is planning.

NightRayDuck 01 Dec 10 at 5:50 p.m. GMT

(vice versa) Yes, Nofret! Amazing job guessing this one in one go! Over to you for the next puzzle, please! 

(I was a little worried that people might complain that they couldn't find the name of this young man... I couldn't find one, either.)

Nofret 01 Dec 10 at 8:31 a.m. GMT

Could this be the young man in Jane in Search of a Job? He noticed that the Grand Duchess went into the house wearing high heels and came out wearing low (or vice versa!)

NightRayDuck 30 Nov 10 at 11:37 p.m. GMT

Aw! My head! I never thought my familiarity with my father's business would enable me to notice some very small discrepancy and end up helping a stranger who had been tricked into a criminal scheme. And I did that by being hit on the head! Aw! Am I making sense yet?

Hints available upon request. 

Miss_Eylesbarrow 29 Nov 10 at 10:06 a.m. GMT

Quite correct Darknight.  Your turn!

NightRayDuck 26 Nov 10 at 3:14 a.m. GMT

I think this might be Martha, the long-time and very loyal servant who unfortunately has a rather violent offspring, in the non-serial short-story "Sing a Song of Sixpence".

I wonder how often Christie fans get confused by story titles that were taken from the same nursery rhyme...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 23 Nov 10 at 9:11 a.m. GMT

Thanks Darknight.  It's getting harder to come up with them now, everyone is so good!  How about this:

I'm sure that I never told a lie about what happened, I have to be loyal to the family but at the same time, when you are trying to keep someone else out of danger, things get a bit awkward.

NightRayDuck 23 Nov 10 at 5:15 a.m. GMT

Yes, Miss Eylesbarrow! It's Boris and his nearly instinctive duty to the royalty of Herzoslovakia. Your turn. 

Miss_Eylesbarrow 22 Nov 10 at 10:32 a.m. GMT

Oops!  Posted too quickly - the book is The Secret of Chimneys....

Miss_Eylesbarrow 22 Nov 10 at 10:31 a.m. GMT

It's Boris Anchoukoff, the valet of Prince Michael and then valet to Anthony Cade.

NightRayDuck 21 Nov 10 at 10:10 p.m. GMT

I just realized that I left out something important. Here is the character description slightly re-written to convey his strength of feelings.

My master was killed while I slept - that was my utterly unforgivable negligence in my duties. I have sworn - I don't care who hears me - to track down the killer and avenge my master. God brought my next master soon afterwards, and absolutely I could think of nothing but to serve him. I went and asked him his wishes - and would you believe it, he tried to turn me away on the pretext of having no money to pay my salary! My duty to my masters is sacred and beyond mere matters of salary... but perhaps the new master has cause to pretend for a little while that he's not my rightful master. No matter. I go about and do things that will help him, anyway.

NightRayDuck 21 Nov 10 at 6:43 p.m. GMT

OK! I can relate to the vet bills... in the opposite direction. Before I got a pair of eyeglasses that actually worked, my cats were always staring at me with an expression of "Is it so very difficult to clean out the cat dirt box? Who takes 40 minutes to clean the dirt box?" lol. 

But sorry, no, it's not Mahmoud of Appointment with Death. When this character speaks of a master, he means actually the master that he'll serve for all of his life, or as happens with the recently deceased master, that he'll serve for the rest of the master's life. It's a life-long devotion, unlike Mahmoud's attention to the current clients in the tourist camp.

It's interesting, though, the way that you fixed on characters who don't speak English. This character, indeed, his native tongue is not English, but he has been described as speaking quite correct English, though with a thick accent. His new master possibly substituted a few phrases of his self-description with phrases more comprehensible to an Englishman, for public relation purposes. 

InspectorGrant 21 Nov 10 at 8:43 a.m. GMT

Lol Darknight - it is just that I am drowning in a sea of Vet bills at the moment, and any mention of the word money automatically makes me think of our dumb chums and their many ailments and other demands.

It sounds like it could be something out of Death Comes as the End, but I have forgotten the plot and don't want to browse through because of possible spoilers.

Will try Mahmoud out of Appointment with Death ;)

NightRayDuck 20 Nov 10 at 9:26 p.m. GMT

oh, dear dog... I mean dear God... oh anyway, dear friend Inspector Grant, no, this character is not Bob. Note the mention of money for salary. And for an additional hint: this character actually went and spoke to the presumptive master and said, in human English, "Master." Happy guessing. 

InspectorGrant 20 Nov 10 at 2:09 p.m. GMT

Is it Bob, out of Dumb Witness?

NightRayDuck 19 Nov 10 at 8:51 p.m. GMT

Next character up for guessing!

My master was killed while I slept - that was my negligence in my duties. God brought my next master soon afterwards, and absolutely I could think of nothing but to serve him. I went and asked him his wishes - and would you believe it, he tried to turn me away on the pretext of having no money to pay my salary! My duty to my masters is sacred and beyond mere matters of salary... but perhaps the new master has cause to pretend for a little while that he's not my rightful master. No matter. I go about and do things that will help him, anyway.

biggles_aristide 19 Nov 10 at 2:44 p.m. GMT

Thank you,  It means a lot, considering I thought it would be really easy.  So, now it's your turn...

NightRayDuck 19 Nov 10 at 7:05 a.m. GMT

Thank you, biggles, and yours was a good puzzle! The way you guessed the correct answer of the previous puzzle was also very good. We've been staying on this game for so long, that any mention of servant would lead most of us to a rotating guess of various butlers nannies kitchen maids and sinister hotel attendants who steal things from guests. So glad you could join us, you bring up fresh ideas. 

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 6:44 p.m. GMT

Correct darknightofrays! It is Joyce Reynolds.  I'm so glad I got to do one....Now I'm satisfied!  Over to you darknightofrays..

NightRayDuck 18 Nov 10 at 6:33 p.m. GMT

Wait. Or maybe more likely it's Joyce Reynolds in Hallowe'en Party? She re-tells the story of a friend witnessing something sinister, but changed it so to give the impression that it was her own experience. To get attention of famous Mrs. Ariadne Oliver. Poor kid just wanted to impress the famous guest.

NightRayDuck 18 Nov 10 at 6:29 p.m. GMT

I am thinking perhaps Nick Buckley from Peril at End House. Her plan depends very much on M. Hercule Poirot taking her side of the "case".

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 5:45 p.m. GMT

No, not her either.

Heres a hint:

"The person I'm trying to get th attention of isn't someone I'm attracted to.  But is someone who is famous.  Im not used to being around famous people very much. That's why I want there attention."

Please read earlier post in order to understand....

Any guesses????

Tommy_A_Jones 18 Nov 10 at 5:05 p.m. GMT

Virginia Revel (The Secret of Chimneys)?

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 2:09 p.m. GMT

Sorry, but It's not her.....good guess though.

Anyone else? Tell me if you need a little hint.

InspectorGrant 18 Nov 10 at 1:50 p.m. GMT

It sounds like Victoria out of They Came to Baghdad..  She was very infatuated with that Edward person, wasn't she, and she was very good at telling a lot of lies!

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Okay, this ones probably gonna be easy:"I'm just dying for some attention from a certain person. And I know there's only one way to get it!  But it might cause me to lose a friend....and get me in to serious danger!! But who cares?  What's the point in telling the truth? It's no fun at all!"

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 1:02 p.m. GMT

Oh, okay.....just give me a couple minutes to think....

Miss_Eylesbarrow 18 Nov 10 at 8:56 a.m. GMT

Okay, well done both of you, I'll have to try to set a harder clue next time!  Over to you Biggles_aristide.....

GKCfan 18 Nov 10 at 5:01 a.m. GMT

You got the character, biggles_aristide.  The next turn is yours!

biggles_aristide 18 Nov 10 at 1:12 a.m. GMT

Oh, darn I didn't have time to reply....oh, well.  Maybe next time

GKCfan 17 Nov 10 at 11:32 p.m. GMT

Ellis.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 17 Nov 10 at 2:45 p.m. GMT

and his name??

biggles_aristide 17 Nov 10 at 1:17 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Oh, is it the butler that Charles Cartwright pretended to be?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 17 Nov 10 at 9:12 a.m. GMT

Er, not sure what the previous post is all about

so, my mystery character:

I'm one of the servants.  I am reported to be good at my job but you'll never get to find out for yourself because by the time the police arrive I will have scarpered - never to be seen again.

iamnotmissmarple 16 Nov 10 at 9:55 p.m. GMT

I totally agree with iamhercule. who are you you wonderful person?

GKCfan 15 Nov 10 at 7:49 p.m. GMT

Yes!  It's Sven Hjerson!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 15 Nov 10 at 11:21 a.m. GMT

Oh, is it Mrs Oliver's Finnish detective - Sven Hjerson? 

NightRayDuck 15 Nov 10 at 5:48 a.m. GMT

OK. I've been thinking, other than the possibility of the mythical Achille, this character description might fit sort of, say, political leader, or religious leader? Perhaps some very wealthy tycoon? I can't think of anyone who is referred to so very often, though. 

GKCfan 15 Nov 10 at 4:55 a.m. GMT

Sorry, no.  It's not Achille, but it's a name Poirot knows well, even if Poirot has never met the character in question.

NightRayDuck 15 Nov 10 at 3:36 a.m. GMT

So... is the character "Achille Poirot", as Miss Eylesbarrow guesses, or is it someone else? Shall we start asking for hints? I find it difficult to even think of what type of hints will help me figure this one out. hmm. 

Miss_Eylesbarrow 10 Nov 10 at 9:22 a.m. GMT

Rats!  I haven't read 7 dials for ages, I can't beieve I confused George & Bill!!  At least I got the right book

Anyway, GKC, your clue.  Is it the great Hercule Poirot's mysterious brother?

GKCfan 09 Nov 10 at 8:54 p.m. GMT

I am a character who is often referred to, but is never actually seen in Agatha Christie's books.  The person closest to me despises me, but that person is also very defensive towards me.  I have many idiosyncracies, but they seem to endear me to people outside of my native land.  Though I am no longer young, I don't believe that I will die anythime soon, unless the person closest to me decides to kill me.

NightRayDuck 09 Nov 10 at 7:13 p.m. GMT

Oh, dear Miss Eylesbarrow... and dear GKC...

It is Bill Eversleigh in Seven Dials Mystery. George Lomax, though an insufferable windbag who might boast that he knows the truth, happens to be less qualified than Bill during Seven Dials incident. Besides, the Hon. George Lomax might have refrained from calling himself a young man since his late 20s. Congrats, GKC.

Oh, and Bill Eversleigh would like to add... "I know I got hold of her now. But it still makes me fuming mad that Codders proposed to make her his wife!!"

GKCfan 09 Nov 10 at 7:07 p.m. GMT

Or Bill Eversleigh from 7 Dials/Chimneys?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 09 Nov 10 at 9:27 a.m. GMT

Is it George Lomax from Seven Dials?  He also appeared in Chimneys...

NightRayDuck 09 Nov 10 at 1:21 a.m. GMT

OK! I hope this one is not very tricky... or very rambling.

I am good-natured and brave, like many other young men of my class. Sometimes I plod a little, and I am not always the first to see through lies or disguises. But this time I happen to know the true shape of the case! I can only hope she won't be completely taken in by the crooks.

GKCfan 08 Nov 10 at 5:54 a.m. GMT

Why, yes I do mean Sylvia Battle!  Great job!

NightRayDuck 08 Nov 10 at 1:06 a.m. GMT

Do you perhaps mean Sylvia Battle, youngest daughter of Superintendent Battle, appearing in Towards Zero? Sylvia has got so impatient with her teachers being all kind and condescending about their hunt for a petty thief among the pupils, that she ended up saying she's the thief.

GKCfan 07 Nov 10 at 7:55 p.m. GMT

I am the youngest child of a big family.  My father has a very important job, and he is really respected, liked, and well-known, both in the fictional Christieverse and the real-life world of readers.  I may very likely have a big brother who also has a very important job (a different one from my dad's, but a connected one), but no one is sure.  I did something really stupid that nearly got me in terrible trouble, but my father saved me.

If you've read the book(s) in question, you should know this one– the hardest part may be remembering the character's name!

NightRayDuck 07 Nov 10 at 5:27 p.m. GMT

Yes, GKCfan! Excellent work to come back with the answer so fast and with her full name. It is Anthea, the odd sister who acts like a young girl because she's so cursedly nervous. Your turn, GKC. 

GKCfan 07 Nov 10 at 5:54 a.m. GMT

Anthea Bradbury-Scott from Nemesis?

NightRayDuck 06 Nov 10 at 6:29 p.m. GMT

My oldest sibling has been making sinister accusations while wildly exaggerating the problem of my "nerves". My other sibling remains stubbornly ordinary and obtusely cheerful. Well, if a crime is ever discovered in the neighborhood... people will say that I've always been highly strung, that I have finally gone off my head. Can you say that anyone in my position wouldn't be nervous??

That is the complaint of the next character up for guessing. Have fun. 

MissQuin 06 Nov 10 at 9:29 a.m. GMT

Dark night you have it. It's David Hunter!!(claps)

I'll ignore any other posts that are nonsensical

NightRayDuck 06 Nov 10 at 4:17 a.m. GMT

Oh! How about David Hunter from Taken at the Flood?

iamhercule 05 Nov 10 at 9:05 p.m. GMT

Agatha Christie said your not supposed to say dirty words like that, Mss. Quin

NightRayDuck 05 Nov 10 at 5:56 p.m. GMT

a faked alibi, a male victim, a co conspirator that this character is willing to "silence"... I think that washes out Mr. "Sir George Stubbs", also. hmm.

MissQuin 05 Nov 10 at 2:30 p.m. GMT

What ho Miss Eylesbarrow, delighted to see you again! A very good guess, but not correct. This character also uses charm to lead other's in to wrong doing though...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 05 Nov 10 at 9:22 a.m. GMT

Hi Miss Q - I'm back!  It's been a while, good to see you are posing as tricky questions as ever!  Is it Lawrence Fortescue from Pocket full of Rye? xx

NightRayDuck 04 Nov 10 at 12:14 p.m. GMT

eck, that washes out my next guess of Nigel Chapman from Hickory Dickory Dock, as far as I can figure... 

MissQuin 04 Nov 10 at 11:16 a.m. GMT

I made it hard because you lot are so good as guessing! Well here's a clue:

Alright, so my albi was faked. So what?! I always put number one first. I just need my co conspirator to keep silent. If not, well I'll take actions to make sure of that silence! But the damned thing is although my albi was faked, I'm not the one who killed that man.

NightRayDuck 03 Nov 10 at 11:42 p.m. GMT

hmm. oooh! the highly multi-talented Ann Shapland from Cat Among the Pigeons??  I don't feel sure about "doesn't care what people think", but I have always been very impressed with her habit of seeking new thrilling jobs.

MissQuin 03 Nov 10 at 9 p.m. GMT

No not Harry. Mr Cade is a brave yet reckless young man.

But this person doesn't care what people think, so they are rebellious. Also by "taking measures" that their dark secret doesn't come out suggests what... lying, scheming or perhaps crime?

Mr_Graves 03 Nov 10 at 7:36 p.m. GMT

That helps me not a lot. What is this Mr Cade like?

My other guess was going to be Harry Rayburn, from "The Man in the Brown Suit"

MissQuin 03 Nov 10 at 2:52 p.m. GMT

It's not from Murder is Easy. Nor is it anthony Cade, but Darknight is closer. This person shares many characteristics with Cade.

NightRayDuck 02 Nov 10 at 8:31 p.m. GMT

...or could be Anthony Cade from Secret of Chimneys? 

Mr_Graves 02 Nov 10 at 6:57 p.m. GMT

Is it Honoria Waynflete, from "Murder is Easy"?

MissQuin 02 Nov 10 at 2:55 p.m. GMT

Ok here goes

This situaton is dangerous but then I love taking risks. I don't care what anyone thinks of me. As long as my secret's safe. Ive taken messures to make sure that it remains so... 

NightRayDuck 01 Nov 10 at 6:04 p.m. GMT

Yay! MissQuin has succeeded in nailing down the identity of the elusive young hiker! Yes, it's the so-called "Lady Hettie Stubbs" in Dead Man's Folly. I am glad I didn't need to resort to hints like "the magnificent M. Poirot chatted with me when once I disguised as someone more like my original personality" or some difficult comparison of bigamy cases across different novels. Whew!

Over to you for the next character puzzle, MissQuin. 

MissQuin 01 Nov 10 at 5:42 p.m. GMT

Just thought I'd take a wild guess, seeing as you were so disapointed my lack of responses! No Ive never read HPC properly so my impressions of it are wrong.

Well the "wife" Lady Stubbs in Dead Man's Folly, She's no trouble hiking and she pretends to be half witted.

NightRayDuck 01 Nov 10 at 5:27 p.m. GMT

Mr. Graves- that's all right. I knew what you meant about outdoorsy. This character is indeed outdoorsy but acts extremely dumb, as in, to use modern jargon, having low IQ. Mrs. Redfern wasn't that bad, only acting delicate in physique.

MissQuin- that's all right, too. But Magdalene... if you mean her current husband George Lee, he's more of a huge windbag, I don't know that he had committed any serious crime. If you mean Magdalene's "Naval papa that she had been living with", even if that's in fact a boyfriend / husband, we don't know much about what he has done in the past, and also Magdalene is not actually impersonating another known person.

Is this puzzle so difficult? I thought I set it pretty straight... It's from a quite well-known story, too. 

MissQuin 01 Nov 10 at 4:13 p.m. GMT

I think the character might be from Hercule Poirot's Chrisitmas. BUT Ive neve read that book properly! So go gentle on me please Darknight

If it was it'll be the young lady Magdalene? Her husband was a black sheep, she was also expensively dressed and acted dumb.

Mr_Graves 01 Nov 10 at 6:45 a.m. GMT

Mrs Redfern was a wild stab in the dark; I didn't seriously think it could be her. It was that bit about being outdoorsy, but acting stupid. Well, I don't think then that this character is from any book that I have read.

NightRayDuck 01 Nov 10 at 5:47 a.m. GMT

This character is certainly not Christine Redfern. This character mentions that she came home with her husband, and that she now stays home and hides from people. And the husband is well known as a bad hat or whatever the phrase used in the particular story. And that the husband has some family member(s).

Christine Redfern, when encountered in the books, is on vacation... definitely doesn't fit the clue.

Mr_Graves 31 Oct 10 at 11:29 p.m. GMT

Is it Christine Redfern, from "Evil under the Sun"? I don't think she was foreign, though....

NightRayDuck 31 Oct 10 at 8:26 p.m. GMT

The character is of foreign origin and appears in a Poirot case, yes. I've always thought there are way too many Poirot short stories and novels for "this is a Poirot novel" or "this is a Poirot short story" to be truly efficient hints. I would prefer to let the character talk some more about herself... If you extract each small fact from the chatter, the character in question should emerge as quite a clear picture.

The character further explains:

I mean, I am an active young woman with no difficulty at outdoor activities, but for my recent role I've had to wear dressy clothes, stay home all day, and make often the excuse of the headache and hide in my room not seeing anybody! Also, my original language is crisp and lively, but I've had to drawl and converse slowly as if I were really half-witted.

Mr_Graves 31 Oct 10 at 8:03 p.m. GMT

It must be a foreigner, possibly American, from what she says of British idioms... And from a Poirot story, I take it. Well, well... Perhaps it is a short story character?

NightRayDuck 30 Oct 10 at 5:06 p.m. GMT

Still no correct answers and not even new guesses... Well, I'll give the type of hint that many players prefer... This character is not Rosaleen Cloade, and is not Mary Restarick, but does appear in a story featuring the same detective as those two ladies.

NightRayDuck 29 Oct 10 at 7:01 p.m. GMT

Marrying a clever, daring man has been good. Having a lot of money has been great! Now I just want to wrap up this business and enjoy myself in peace; the pretense is getting tiresome even though I get to wear expensive makeup and designer clothes.

My husband really is clever, I think. His folks have always called him a bad lot, a wrong one, a black sheep, or whatever their British idiom is. Now that I am home with him, his folks blame me for leading him astray! Quite unfair. To help them get and keep the money, I've dressed up and acted dumb for months... 

That is a complaint that the character felt she might be entitled to add.

NightRayDuck 28 Oct 10 at 6:53 p.m. GMT

I need to sneak off for a catnap... I beg our friends here to put up at least 2 more guesses before I start hinting on the differences between the current guesses and the correct answer. Thanking you in advance. 

GKCfan 28 Oct 10 at 5:38 a.m. GMT

Mary Restarick in Third Girl?

NightRayDuck 28 Oct 10 at 5:33 a.m. GMT

Will somebody make a few more guesses please... I knew people would fix on Rosaleen Cloade, poor girl.

biggles_aristide 27 Oct 10 at 8:58 p.m. GMT

Rosaleen Cloade from Taken at the flood?

NightRayDuck 27 Oct 10 at 4:05 p.m. GMT

Marrying a clever, daring man has been good. Having a lot of money has been great! Now I just want to wrap up this business and enjoy myself in peace; the pretense is getting tiresome even though I get to wear expensive makeup and designer clothes.

cameronjhw 26 Oct 10 at 9:56 p.m. GMT

Excellent it is the elderly and retired professor Angus McNaughton who likes to garden. He's one of my favorite characters from the book the Clocks. Now it's your turn and I hope yours is a good one...

NightRayDuck 26 Oct 10 at 9:36 p.m. GMT

I've been thinking about this one for a long time, cameron.... A retired person, loves gardening, currently experiencing perfect weather for gardening, has a murder case, and has pests nearby. Could it be retired professor Angus McNaughton from The Clocks, having a murder victim discovered in his neighborhood, and two very noisy neighbor kids on summer vacation?

cameronjhw 19 Oct 10 at 2:22 p.m. GMT

"What a lovely day, a perfect day for my garden. My garden gives me something to do now that I am retired..Although now it seems that this murder  is disrupting my peace of mind...that and those pests who like to stir up a fuss nearby...

InspectorGrant 18 Oct 10 at 5:48 a.m. GMT

Yes, it is indeed Pierre Michel.  Very quick work Cameron - your turn!

cameronjhw 17 Oct 10 at 6:13 p.m. GMT

Is it Pierre Michel from Murder on the Orient Express

InspectorGrant 17 Oct 10 at 2:12 p.m. GMT

Thanks, Verity!

I couldn't find a decent internal narrative for this character, so will just describe him:

I am a Frenchman and I wear a uniform when I am at work.   I have been grieving for a long time now.

verityvamp 16 Oct 10 at 11:58 p.m. GMT

Yes Inspector Grant! it is Miss Waynflete from Murder is Easy, aka Easy to Kill. I wasn't sure if the gloves would give it away, but without it seemed too vague. Your turn!

InspectorGrant 16 Oct 10 at 1:13 p.m. GMT

I am guessing Miss Waynflete from Murder is Easy but only because of the reference to her wearing gloves. 

christie_greece 16 Oct 10 at 10:30 a.m. GMT

I'm not sure but the answer could be Mrs. Hubbard from Murder on the Orient Express.

verityvamp 16 Oct 10 at 3:37 a.m. GMT

thanks Dark Night! yes, i think Staffy is a rather silly nickname too. I've never done one of these character sketches before guys, so bare with me, I'm afraid it'll be either frightfully easy or too vague.

"I am a devilishly clever woman scorned who has waited years to exact revenge," giggled the old woman in gloves.

NightRayDuck 15 Oct 10 at 1:52 a.m. GMT

Spot on, verityvamp! Yes, it is Sir Stafford Nye from Passenger to Frankfurt. Your turn to set the next puzzle. 

By the way, am I the only one who finds Sir Stafford's nickname, "Staffy", very amusing?

verityvamp 15 Oct 10 at 1:26 a.m. GMT

Sir Stafford Nye from Passenger to Frankfurt

NightRayDuck 14 Oct 10 at 11:10 p.m. GMT

No, it's not Adam Goodman, and not Michael Rogers.

This character likes meeting interesting people. Requests for specific hints might be replied from the character's point of view. 

cameronjhw 14 Oct 10 at 12:55 p.m. GMT

Is it Adam Goodman from Cat Among the Pigeons or Michael Rogers from Endless Night

NightRayDuck 14 Oct 10 at 4:52 a.m. GMT

My friends are always telling me about my brilliant intellect, telling me that I would have developed a very distinguished career by now if only I had worked to curb my sense of humor. Well, I am clever enough to realize that life can't be all work! I do the miscellaneous jobs in my field, avoiding important people who might be offended by my idea of a joke, and also getting the time to travel with interesting friends to places that do not interest me at all. It's fun... all right, it's still a bit tame. I am bored.

That is the statement of the next character up for guessing. It does not reflect my own thoughts and sentiments! 

MissQuin 13 Oct 10 at 4:08 p.m. GMT

Dark Knight is correct! It's the seemingly fussy Miss Emily Skinner, who turns out to be capable of more than she lets on.

Over to you!

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Oct 10 at 2:49 p.m. GMT

Bella in Dumb Witness?

NightRayDuck 12 Oct 10 at 11:04 p.m. GMT

I wonder why it is that nobody has yet put forward one of the more fussy "invalid" characters as a guess...

I think it might be one of the sisters in "The Case of the Perfect Maid", short story sleuthed by Miss Marple. The two middle-aged Misses Skinner who are newer residents in a set of rooms, one sister always fussing about her health and stressing the need for very good service at home. Turned out that she's capable of performing good household service herself.

GardenLady 12 Oct 10 at 8:15 p.m. GMT

How about Christine Redfern from Evil Under the Sun or Mr. Cayley from N or M

Mr_Graves 12 Oct 10 at 7:21 p.m. GMT

Gerda Christow from The Hollow???

MissQuin 12 Oct 10 at 3:15 p.m. GMT

No, poor Emily wasn't a whinger! Poirot admired her.

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Oct 10 at 2:28 p.m. GMT

Emily Arrundell Dumb Witness?

MissQuin 12 Oct 10 at 2:23 p.m. GMT

good guesses. No it's not either of those. You have guessed that this person is whinger!

cameronjhw 12 Oct 10 at 1:51 p.m. GMT

Could it be Miss Van Schuyler from Death on the Nile or Mrs. Boynton from appointment with death

MissQuin 12 Oct 10 at 1:37 p.m. GMT

Thanks, so my turn:

I'm delicate! I always have been. I have my likes and dislikes same as everyone else. So why do people think I'm being so unreasonable? I reckon people think me foolish, but I'm capable of more than most people realise.

NightRayDuck 11 Oct 10 at 4:50 p.m. GMT

Yes, MissQuin! It is the brave and skilled young man Carmichael, British agent gathering intelligence on a dangerous global conspiracy. Over to you for the next one.

MissQuin 11 Oct 10 at 2:19 p.m. GMT

I think it might be Carmicheal They Came to Baghdad

NightRayDuck 11 Oct 10 at 7:44 a.m. GMT

I've traveled long distances in inhospitable lands - well, inhospitable for most people back home; I've been able to do it only because I lived here when I was younger, and I know the languages and the people. And I know very well how to avoid any ambush that the enemy may have set up. Even then, it's still been very difficult and very dangerous. I do my best, now I only hope that I can deliver these pieces of evidence to the right hands...

Puffinjill 09 Oct 10 at 6:48 p.m. GMT

Good grief, you lot are just too good for me!! Yes, darknightofrays, you are perfectly correct yet again! It is Emma Stamfordis/Julia Simmonds from A Murder Is Announced. Spot on explanation too! over to you, my friend, for the next one!!!

NightRayDuck 09 Oct 10 at 3:31 p.m. GMT

Emma Stamfordis, posing as Julia Simmons, sister of Patrick Simmons and distant cousin of Letitia Blacklock, in A Murder Is Announced? poor Emma has been bored (I can't remember what they said Julia was supposed to be doing), going out every day to sit at the cinema and such. Patrick keeps his mouth shut, pretty much, to the point that he forgets to sternly remind the real Julia to never write him a letter at Aunt Letty's address.

Puffinjill 09 Oct 10 at 1:33 p.m. GMT

Oh what a young and innocent mind you had, darknightofrays!!! Right, let's see if I can think of a new one.

Life is a little more exciting in this quiet place now this murder had occured. Trouble is, if anyone finds out who I really am, I may well be suspected of having done the deed myself. I hope the only person who knows the truth will keep his mouth shut! But it's so difficult, trying to fill my days and lying about what I do.

NightRayDuck 08 Oct 10 at 10:18 p.m. GMT

Yes, Puffinjill! It is Miss Dinah Lee, as she insists on calling herself for quite a while. I remember that even when I read the book the first time at age 8, I had wondered why Basil Blake & Dinah Lee would "move in together", as it were, in a quiet, respectable neighborhood that was bound to disapprove of them, on top of having to travel all the way to and from London for any party of their young and fast-living friends. I had wondered, well, up until I read the part when their little secret was revealed. 

Puffinjill 08 Oct 10 at 12:32 p.m. GMT

Is it Dinah Lee, Basil Blake's glamourous platinum blonde, from A Body In The Library?

NightRayDuck 08 Oct 10 at 4:29 a.m. GMT

The next character up for guessing- is feeling just slightly baffled.

It's been such fun! Moving with my, hah, boyfriend to this quiet community. Seeing the neighbors all shocked at what they think is our immoral lifestyle. And then we hear about this dead body turning up... so there's immoral living among the old neighbors, too, isn't there? But they seem to think we, the flashy newcomers, might have something to do with it. Hmm.

fiona_m 07 Oct 10 at 5:34 p.m. GMT

Congrats, darknightofrays! It is Mr Rycroft, eager to help out Emily Trefusis in "The Sittaford Mystery" Your turn

Good guesses guys, I can see how those fit too, apart from the new arrival part. Hopefully I wasn't too vague!!

InspectorGrant 07 Oct 10 at 7:23 a.m. GMT

The narrative tone sounds like Dr. Shepherd in The Murder of Roger Ackroyd - a bit sarky and very boastful.  Can't quite fit in the new arrival in the locality, though, which is a bit of a problem..

NightRayDuck 07 Oct 10 at 6:14 a.m. GMT

That's what I thought until I got to the last sentence. The new arrival is female. In Crooked House, the only female new on the scene is Miss Sophia Leonides who has recently come home from her job, and I don't feel Josephine Leonides is very eager to offer help to Sophia. It's a lot of fun to offer "services" to the policemen and unofficial snooping boyfriend, of course.

With the clue written the way it is, I am going to guess it's Mr. Rycroft, self-proclaimed expert (or in any case, owner and reader of large library on the subject) on criminology and on rare birds, in The Sittaford Mystery, planning on offering services to Emily Trefusis.

cameronjhw 07 Oct 10 at 3:39 a.m. GMT

Is it Josephine from Crooked House

fiona_m 06 Oct 10 at 6:56 p.m. GMT

Thanks, darknightofrays! I've just read Peril at End House so I had it on the brain.

How exciting that there's been a murder! I, of course, know exactly what I'm talking about here, where others may not. After all my years, finally getting a chance to shine - this is my area of expertise, in my own opinion. Possessing a deep knowledge that no one else has, I'm sure I can offer my services to the new arrival in the locality. She probably needs it, after all...

NightRayDuck 05 Oct 10 at 9:05 p.m. GMT

Congrats, fiona_m, you have identified the character! Yes, it is Ellen, Nick Buckley's housekeeper. Your turn to set the next puzzle. 

Mr. Graves, I really appreciate your hint request, the sort of member of the household; it's much more relevant than "has this character met Miss Marple" or "has this character met M. Poirot" that's usually being asked in this game. Well, maybe next time. 

Other friends- please do read through the clue and take at least part of every sentence into account. Mr. Simeon Lee would have done surprising things to people, yes, but he didn't get multiple surprising events happening to him lately. Sir Henry & Lady Lucy Angkatell haven't had multiple surprising events lately, only the single surprising event of a friend being shot dead at their house.

fiona_m 05 Oct 10 at 7:38 p.m. GMT

Is it Ellen, Nick Buckley's housekeeper in Peril at End House?

Mr_Graves 05 Oct 10 at 7:21 p.m. GMT

What a bother! There are so many servants and companions in the novels... Could we have a little hint? Like what sort of member of the household?

NightRayDuck 05 Oct 10 at 7:02 p.m. GMT

No and no, not Tresillian to the Lee family or the butler to the Angkatells.

Tommy_A_Jones 05 Oct 10 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

Is it the Butler in The Hollow?

cameronjhw 04 Oct 10 at 6:30 p.m. GMT

Is it Tresillian the butler and family retainer to the Lee family in Hercule Poirot's Christmas.

NightRayDuck 03 Oct 10 at 7:15 p.m. GMT

I am worried... I've worked for this household across several decades, and I know the quirks of these people. Some surprising events have been happening to the current head of household. People who know the family would have thought things ought to go the other way around - the head of household having surprising events happen to other people. If that's the truth of these events... that very clever-looking gentleman appears to be completely taken in. It's really very worrying.

cameronjhw 03 Oct 10 at 12:50 a.m. GMT

Correct it is the nannie (Janet Rowe) from Crooked House who drinks the poisoned cocoa.

Your turn..

NightRayDuck 02 Oct 10 at 5:36 p.m. GMT

I second christie_greece on the nanny from Crooked House, even though I am not sure she'd think of herself as indeed a servant, or only "a servant in a way". I think the last two sentences in the clue indicate that the character has just consumed some food or drink that's usually soothing, but is now getting some quite ill effects from it. I could be quite wrong about that, of course, and also, I am sure there are other "silenced" domestic staff members in some of the stories that I haven't re-read in the last decade....

InspectorGrant 02 Oct 10 at 3:06 p.m. GMT

Or could it be the butler from Hercule Poirot's Christmas?  The one who was confused because a lot of the men had the same family resemblance.

christie_greece 02 Oct 10 at 2:35 p.m. GMT

It could be the servant from The murder of roger ackroyd, or the servant from crooked house (I can't remember if there was a servant in this book, but I think there was), but I can't remember their names.

cameronjhw 01 Oct 10 at 8:50 p.m. GMT

Oh, dear this whole murder business has given me quite a turn and I am only a servant in a way. I was shocked by the master's death. But then when someone tried to attack another member of the family I was frightened I can tell you that and yet I wonder if maybe it was ***** who did it. I'm not certain but I suspect that....oh but it could not be I have serve this family for a quite long time and I....oh this will calm my nerves...that's better now I...

NightRayDuck 29 Sep 10 at 8:29 p.m. GMT

Perfect answer, cameron! Yes, the answer is Lord Caterham, and since this is the guess-the-character thread, both of the books you mentioned are correct for the character. Your turn. 

cameronjhw 29 Sep 10 at 8:13 p.m. GMT

It has to be Lord Caterham from the Secret of Chimneys or the Seven Dials Mystery

NightRayDuck 29 Sep 10 at 8 p.m. GMT

I'll set an easy one this time, because I am too distracted by the thought of Lucy Eylesbarrow's cooking. :p

My ahem colleagues, especially the gent who always looks like he's about to go apoplectic, think they have the run of my house for any hush-hush scheme they may dream of. Patriotic duty is all very well, but it's my house, you know. I can't think why valuable or important things got to my house just to be stolen, or why important personages came to my house just to get killed.

ampman 29 Sep 10 at 3:13 p.m. GMT

darknightofrays is right!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is dithery Bryan who's son was so fond of Lucy Eylesbarrow's cooking.

Puffinjill 29 Sep 10 at 5:06 a.m. GMT

Was that a bit of a clue, ampman? Would it be Norman Gale from Death In The Clouds? I may well be completely wrong and you weren't giving us all a hint!!!

NightRayDuck 29 Sep 10 at 12:26 a.m. GMT

Bryan Eastley from 4.50 from Paddington?

ampman 28 Sep 10 at 6:42 p.m. GMT

No, sorry MissQuin.

Here's a clue. His head used to be in the clouds.

MissQuin 27 Sep 10 at 2:14 p.m. GMT

Could it be the Edward the writer in Murder Is Announced?

ampman 27 Sep 10 at 12:41 p.m. GMT

It's a man.

NightRayDuck 26 Sep 10 at 6:04 p.m. GMT

could it be Tuppence Cowley, later Tuppence Beresford? My most sincere apologies to Tuppence fans if this isn't like her. I haven't read any Tommy&Tuppence stories, it's just the impression I gathered from various fourth-hand sources.

ivi21 26 Sep 10 at 9:49 a.m. GMT

Is it a woman?

ampman 26 Sep 10 at 8:36 a.m. GMT

Not Hastings or Michael Rogers.

NightRayDuck 26 Sep 10 at 3:10 a.m. GMT

that's a tough one... my first wild guess would be Michael Rogers from Endless Night.

knottyceltic 25 Sep 10 at 8:38 p.m. GMT

Is it Hastings?  He is always investing in various things and losing all his money. 

ampman 25 Sep 10 at 7:59 p.m. GMT

O.K. Here goes.

I'm a bit of a dreamer. I have plenty of ideas about what to do with my life but I never get round to doing any of them. I need someone to give me some direction in life.

Puffinjill 21 Sep 10 at 5:35 a.m. GMT

Ampman, you're a star!! Yes, it was Mary from The Murder At The Vicarage, venting her indignation at Lettice Protheroe's comments towards her dusting abilities. Over to you for the next one!!!

ampman 20 Sep 10 at 2:50 p.m. GMT

Is it Mary the servant at the vicarage in Murde at the  Vicarage?

Puffinjill 16 Sep 10 at 6:34 a.m. GMT

I shall look out for your thread and try to have a go at guessing your new puzzle, darknightofrays. I'm afraid none of the suggestions you have put forward are the right one, but keep guessing!!!

NightRayDuck 15 Sep 10 at 9:22 p.m. GMT

I am sure I am forgetting the obvious answer (as usual), so I am going to exercise my little blurry cells by going through a bit of eliminating the characters who fit the clue less well..

Mr. Quin short story At the Bells and Motley, the young woman at the pub? I forget if she's the daughter of the pub owner, or simply employed there. Her young man is under suspicion. And yet, I can't think of anyone coming along to criticize her work while having her own family affairs to mind, so that washes her out.

Sheila Webb from The Clocks? No complaints from her clients, but also, no young man under suspicion, and no criticism from someone who should be minding her own family affairs.

I think my little blurry cells have just turned into little gooey cells..

Guessing object game: I'll start a new thread with the concept and a sample question, and you can take a look and give feedback? :)

ivi21 15 Sep 10 at 9:03 p.m. GMT

And about the last character, I also need a hint.

ivi21 15 Sep 10 at 9 p.m. GMT

I agree with a new game. Guessing the object can be fun! 

christie_greece 15 Sep 10 at 3:59 p.m. GMT

indeed, setting a new puzzle is harder than guessing it...

darknighttofrays I also think Guess the object is a great idea. Count me in!!!

well, well, well.... I can't think of a person who could say these words so I'll wait for a hint. Or I may think of someone later...

christie_greece 15 Sep 10 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

indeed, setting a new puzzle is harder than guessing it...

darknighttofrays I also think Guess the object is a great idea. Count me in!!!

well, well, well.... I can't think of a person who could say these words so I'll wait for a hint. Or I may think of someone later...

christie_greece 15 Sep 10 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

indeed, setting a new puzzle is harder than guessing it...

darknighttofrays I also think Guess the object is a great idea. Count me in!!!

well, well, well.... I can't think of a person who could say these words so I'll wait for a hint. Or I may think of someone later...

Puffinjill 15 Sep 10 at 2:47 p.m. GMT

Thanks, darknightofrays! Only trouble is I know need to try to think up a new puzzle. And I find it so much easier to guess them than set them! OK, let's see..... how about this...

"WELL!!!! Coming round here and critising ME at a time when SHE ought to be more concerned with her own family affairs!! What business is it of hers? I've had no complaints from those who employ me and that's all that matters,isn't it? I'm sure I do my best. Doesn't help matters having my young man under suspicion of this crime either. Nasty suspicious minds some people have! I have my feelings after all and now they're all upset."

I'm sure you'll all guess that one quicker than it took me to set it!!! By the way, darknightofrays, I'm intrigued by your idea for a new puzzle thread. Tell me more!!

NightRayDuck 13 Sep 10 at 8:38 p.m. GMT

Yes, Puffinjill is correct! It is Uncle Leadbetter, who expounds the theory of grasping the golden ball when it comes, while George secures a marriage to a beautiful girl with 20000 pounds a year, using 2 pennies to satisfy the ego of himself and that of the girl. 

Puffinjill 13 Sep 10 at 6:54 a.m. GMT

Is it Ephraim Leadbetter, the uncle of George Dundas, from the short story The Golden Ball? George certainly manages to change his life around in a few short hours!!

NightRayDuck 13 Sep 10 at 1:04 a.m. GMT

Hrumph! I've just disowned my lazy nephew this morning. Now the day's not ended yet when he comes to me and boasts about his accomplishments in one day. I hope he's not gone delirious..

I loved Bob's entry in this forum. It got me to re-read Dumb Witness (ugh but the dear clueless Hastings!). A bit later (pages 25 and 26 on this forum), I did one on Bunch Harmon's cat, and many people answered "Bob" and started puns about dogs, including "raining cats and dogs". It was hilarious. 

I wonder if people would be interested in a game of "Guess the object"? If a piece of evidence, or a murder weapon, or some other item of significance were to become sapient and talk about its role in the story?

GKCfan 13 Sep 10 at 12:27 a.m. GMT

Yes!  That is correct!  Every now and then I like to throw a non-human character into the mix, and I'd picked Bob a while back, and I thought that Wonky-Pooh might be a good one.  Your turn!

NightRayDuck 13 Sep 10 at 12:20 a.m. GMT

poor "Wonky Pooh", Persian cat originally belonging to Miss Lavinia Fullerton, in Murder Is Easy? Wonky Pooh running out of the house delayed Miss Fullerton's Scotland Yard visit. Drainage from his infected ear was used on a bandage to infect one of the victims. The killer took in Wonky Pooh for a while, but now the killer is caught and we don't get to hear where Wonky Pooh will go next.

Bob the terrier from Dumb Witness had all the luck to be saddled with silly Hastings..

GKCfan 12 Sep 10 at 9:47 p.m. GMT

I can't believe that I was used to help commit a murder!  I'm totally innocent, but someone else took advantage of my getting sick to commit a crime and almost get away with it.  No one could possibly blame me, and I'll certainly never be charged with anything or put on the wirness stand or even be questioned by the police.  Anyway, even if I hadn't gotten ill the killer would still have found a clever way to kill that person, so I can't blame myself too much.  At least no one in this village harbors any sort of prejudice against me due to my Middle Eastern ancestry.  But what will happen to me now that the killer has been caught?

NightRayDuck 12 Sep 10 at 8:12 p.m. GMT

GKCfan is correct! Yes, even though the wife, Rosina Nunn, putting away a prized jewel and failing to find it again, caused a young man an undeserved jail term, I still find the interaction between Mr. Judd and Miss Nunn enormously entertaining. That she's at the moment sporting a "duchess" look, and searching for preserved pineapples under her seat.. 

GKCfan 12 Sep 10 at 7:12 p.m. GMT

Mr. Judd from "The World's End" from the collection The Mysterious Mr. Quin.

NightRayDuck 12 Sep 10 at 7:06 p.m. GMT

My wife is so horribly absent-minded, and she fiddles with things all the time. If she loses something important, I wouldn't be too surprised to find that she had put it away in some hard-to-find place without thinking or noticing.

About the cat name- I dare say I am lazy, but if I had watched the adaptation before I had read the book, I would have been very, very confused when I heard the name "Tiglath-Pileser". I would probably start fiddling with the volume buttons on my tv. 

ampman 12 Sep 10 at 9:29 a.m. GMT

Congratulations darknightofrays,it is indeed  the vicarage cat in A Murder is Announced. My next clue would have been" My name and sex were changed on TV". In the book the male cat is called Tiglath-Pileser after an Assyrian king the vicar had studied but in the JH version SHE is Delilah.

ivi21 12 Sep 10 at 8:34 a.m. GMT

Lawrence Redding from The Murder at the Vicarage?

NightRayDuck 11 Sep 10 at 6:08 p.m. GMT

Is it the Harmon family cat in A Murder Is Announced..?

christie_greece 11 Sep 10 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

Is it a book or a short story?

ampman 11 Sep 10 at 11:25 a.m. GMT

No, sorry!

cameronjhw 10 Sep 10 at 5:42 p.m. GMT

Is it Albert Batt who worked with Tommy and Tuppence

ampman 10 Sep 10 at 5:37 p.m. GMT

Here's  an easy one.

I helped solve a murder but it got me into trouble. I have a mistress but I get on well with her husband.

christie_greece 09 Sep 10 at 3:53 p.m. GMT

ampman's right!!!!Well done!!! If you find the book (and you own it) it's quite easy to find the character because she says almost the same words at the beginning of the book (2nd chapter, I think) Your turn.:)

ampman 09 Sep 10 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

Mrs Swettenham in A Murder is Announced

christie_greece 09 Sep 10 at 11:04 a.m. GMT

It's from one of these books you mentioned but it's not Miss Marple...

NightRayDuck 08 Sep 10 at 5:38 p.m. GMT

I beg to differ.. I think it's Miss Marple in Nemesis, seeing the notice that Mr. Rafiel has passed away, but she hadn't thought she would get, not a legacy but rather a commission, to investigate the alleged "murder of Verity Hunt by Michael Rafiel".

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Sep 10 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

Miss Marple in A Murder Is Announced

christie_greece 08 Sep 10 at 3:23 p.m. GMT

I'm sorry but none of those two are correct.

hint 1: It's a Marple book (actually these are two hints, Marple and book!)

hint 2: She's a woman.

cameronjhw 08 Sep 10 at 3:09 p.m. GMT

Is it Mark Easterbrook from the Pale Horse or Luke Fitzwilliam from Murder is Easy

christie_greece 08 Sep 10 at 10:19 a.m. GMT

thanks Tommy, darknightofrays you're right about it.

"Every day I read two newspapers, The Times and another one. I usually look at the Births, Marriages and Deaths, particularly the latter.I never thought I would read something really interesting that would lead to something that noone could believe..."

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Sep 10 at 3:40 p.m. GMT

You go Christie, I can't think of one.

NightRayDuck 06 Sep 10 at 9:30 p.m. GMT

Yes, christie and Tommy, you are both correct!  christie, please go ahead and set the next puzzle.

I actually did see christie's answer first, but I was too sleepy to give any hints that would make sense. For the puzzles that I set, if you feel quite certain about your answer and only lack the precise character name, some little description of the character and how he/she fits into the story and the puzzle would be quite sufficient. In this case, for example, that "it's the married and widowed member of the three sisters that Miss Marple ends up visiting. her older sister is still grieving the death / disappearance of her young ward many years ago. their youngest sister suspects foul play within the family, and is therefore highly nervous."

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Sep 10 at 4:48 p.m. GMT

Lavinia Glynn From Nemesis If I am right Christie Greece should go next.

christie_greece 06 Sep 10 at 10:52 a.m. GMT

Is it from Nemesis??? But I can't remember names...

NightRayDuck 05 Sep 10 at 10:59 p.m. GMT

Thank you, cameron. Boris / Andrew always struck me as interesting. I think the story was written in such a way so that, except at the end, most of the information on Major Glydr was from Thomas Betterton and Olive Betterton, who had good reasons to fear him.

Well, next character up for guessing, says:

I've come home to live with my siblings, but they are being rather strange. The one just seems horribly grieved. The other is hysterical.. well, perhaps over-nervy. I find it strange because I see no reason for them to feel like that.. after all this time.

cameronjhw 05 Sep 10 at 8:30 p.m. GMT

Once again you have guessed correct. It is the mysterious Andrew Peters aka Boris Glydr. He interest me when I first read the novel. I thought both identities were two different people. I suspected Boris of being a villian but when I came to the ending that was a major surprise (in my opinion I prefer this one as being a really good spy thriller). I like this character because he reveal a interesting side underneath his whole Brotherhood of Man beliefs. Anyway, good job and over to you....

NightRayDuck 04 Sep 10 at 8:38 p.m. GMT

hmm.. Major Boris Glydr, nowadays Andrew Peters, in Destination Unknown ?

cameronjhw 04 Sep 10 at 5:50 p.m. GMT

No, I am afraid it is not Luke Fitzwilliam.

Hint-this character is known by two identites

NightRayDuck 03 Sep 10 at 6:14 p.m. GMT

I was thinking Luke Fitzwilliam from Murder Is Easy, but I am not sure.. He's not there exactly on a job, more a personal curiosity.

cameronjhw 03 Sep 10 at 2:43 p.m. GMT

No, I'm afraid it is not Michael Rogers from Endless Night.

christie_greece 03 Sep 10 at 2:17 p.m. GMT

Is it from endless night???Michael Rogers talks about Ellie Guteman.

cameronjhw 02 Sep 10 at 8:31 p.m. GMT

Sorry but it is not from the Seven Dials Mystery or the Unexpected Guest.

Hint-a non-series novel

NightRayDuck 02 Sep 10 at 5:52 p.m. GMT

Could it be the main character, Michael Starkwedder, from the original stage play, "The Unexpected Guest"?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 02 Sep 10 at 4:24 p.m. GMT

Seven Dials?

cameronjhw 02 Sep 10 at 2:54 p.m. GMT

No I'm afraid it is not from Crooked House.

christie_greece 02 Sep 10 at 9:41 a.m. GMT

Is it from Crooked House??? If I'm not mistaken Charles Haywards talks about Sophia, Aristide's grandchild.

cameronjhw 01 Sep 10 at 9:55 p.m. GMT

Try this:

"She is a rather attractive girl. Hard to think that she should be here with...I almost have the urge to tell her I love her. Wonder if she loves me. But I must focus on my job. I know danger is here and I must do what I can for her and also settle a personal score with...."

Puffinjill 01 Sep 10 at 8:18 p.m. GMT

It IS Lanscombe from After The Funeral. Well done, cameronjhw!! And over to you for the next one!

cameronjhw 01 Sep 10 at 2:32 p.m. GMT

Could it be Lanscombe from After the Funeral or Tresillian the butler from Hercule Poirot's Christmas

Puffinjill 01 Sep 10 at 8:34 a.m. GMT

Thank you, darknightofrays!! Mary Dove WAS lucky, escaping any from any form of punishment. Now, on to the next one. Try this:

"Life will just not be the same anymore. This house is a sad house and now it will probably be sold and strangers live here. And it took such a sad occasion to see almost all of the family reuinited under the one roof. And at my time of life I shall now have to think of moving on."

Oh dear, I know that is one of my worst - why is it so much easier to guess these than set the next one? - so please excuse me but I'm not feeling too well. (That's the truth, not just me being pathetic and playing on your sympathies!!!)

NightRayDuck 30 Aug 10 at 6:43 p.m. GMT

Hi Puffinjill! Yes, you've got it in one! It was Mary Dove from A Pocketful of Rye. She's one of the rare blackmailing characters, I think, who did not get killed, frightened off, or turned in to the authorities.

Puffinjill 30 Aug 10 at 8:37 a.m. GMT

Would that be Mary Dove from A Pocketful Of Rye?

NightRayDuck 30 Aug 10 at 3:36 a.m. GMT

Thank you, cameron, and let us see whether this one will require guessing through several possibilities. 

I was only working toward my usual racket when what would my current employer do but pop off in the most notorious manner. "A case of sudden death... investigation is only routine," says that nice detective, who is starting to imagine perhaps I am someone from my employer's past, here under an assumed name. Well, we'll have to skip this target, maybe, but I think I see a nice opportunity for a little harmless blackmail..

cameronjhw 30 Aug 10 at 2:03 a.m. GMT

You are right it is the "elderly" and somewhat intelligent English lady Miss Janet Hetherington. She is defintely not the typical English traveler she pretends to be. Very good job I thought it would be one no one would guess so quick. Oh well, your turn and good luck... 

NightRayDuck 29 Aug 10 at 11:59 p.m. GMT

Other than "neat-looking" English lady, this rather reminds me of Miss Hetherington in Destination Unknown a.k.a. So Many Steps to Death. Miss Hetherington, on rather something more than a vacation, on the look out for Hilary Craven who has been asked to masquerade as Olive Betterton. At the moment, Hilary is bandaged up.

I do believe the knitting problem during enjoyable holiday has happened to other characters in other stories, though...

GKCfan 29 Aug 10 at 9:55 p.m. GMT

When you mentioned knitting, I thought of Miss Marple at first, but that's too obvious.  It sounds like it's set at a vacation spot... Let's see... there wouldn't have been much comment about an "English lady" being there if the story were actually set in England, so we can probably rule out Evil Under the Sun and At Bertram's Hotel.  There are only a handful of novels that are not set in England... could it be A Caribbean Mystery?

cameronjhw 29 Aug 10 at 8:06 p.m. GMT

"Knit one, Purl--Oh dear, I missed a stitch. My knitting is rather impossible but I am enjoying my holiday. Some interesting people at this hotel especially that neat-looking English lady...she looks rather tired or lonely. I must keep my eye on her. I have to remember to get in contact with a certain party...

Hope this one will be a puzzler

NightRayDuck 29 Aug 10 at 3:14 p.m. GMT

christie- I think that's quite true about Ellie's cousin not having seen her since her wedding, only that Ellie is quite far from being a nitwit. I was hoping that this puzzle could keep people entertained for a little while if they'd guessed through all the cousins and weddings without homing in on the "nitwit" part of it. 

christie_greece 29 Aug 10 at 2:09 p.m. GMT

yetserday I was reading endless night and Ellie's cousin said: this is the first time I've been over since your marriage. I thought I had found it but...

Maybe next time...

NightRayDuck 28 Aug 10 at 11:51 p.m. GMT

wow.. Cameron got it without listing several other possibilities! I must have made it too obvious. Yes, it's Etienne de Sousa, whose cousin Hattie is indeed more of a nitwit than Victor Drake's cousins. It's a pity that readers of the book never get a first-hand narration on how lovely ("meek" I think was the word used to describe her) Hattie really was.

Cameron's turn. 

MissQuin 28 Aug 10 at 9:29 a.m. GMT

Or it could be Victor in Sparkling Cyanide?

cameronjhw 28 Aug 10 at 7:13 a.m. GMT

How about Ettinne de Sousa (Hattie Stubbs's cousin) from Dead Man's Folly

NightRayDuck 28 Aug 10 at 12:20 a.m. GMT

have to try to be puzzling have to try to be puzzling have to try ummm..

ok, I think I can do that by cutting back a few portions of the clue..

I wonder how my cousin is doing? I haven't seen that lovely nitwit since they got married.

MissQuin 27 Aug 10 at 10:36 a.m. GMT

Yes it's Tim Kendall. That charming man whose really very wicked! I'm sorry it was too easy. Darknight it's your turn now.

NightRayDuck 27 Aug 10 at 5 a.m. GMT

It wouldn't be Patrick Redfern, he's looking for death of the lover that he already mooched a lot of money out of, not death of his spouse who is currently quite a good partner in his schemes.

Dr. Quimper might fit the bill, but he's still several steps away from making a lot of money..

Tim Kendall, the hotel owner from A Caribbean Mystery, is another possible answer. He's in the habit of making money out of spousal life insurance, and currently, he feels certain he'll get to marry a woman who'll receive a legacy from a wealthy employer within a few years or so.

cameronjhw 26 Aug 10 at 10:52 p.m. GMT

Could it be Patrick Redfern from Evil Under the Sun, Michael Rogers from Endless Night, or Dr. Quimper from 4:50 from Paddington

MissQuin 26 Aug 10 at 4:15 p.m. GMT

I would love to see the adapt of that story in The AC hour, please show it again ITV3!!

Things are going very well. I stand to make alot of money from my spouses death and Ive managed to keep my affair secret too! I'll do anything to stop people meddling in my affairs, and that even means murder!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 26 Aug 10 at 4:09 p.m. GMT

You are correct as always Miss Quin, isn't it nice to have an easy one after all these tricky questions?  :)

Your turn

MissQuin 26 Aug 10 at 10:17 a.m. GMT

Oh it's Edward Robinson I think in the short story The Manhood of Edward Robinson, where he breaks away from his humdrum life and has a roaring old time. He gets to be more assertive afterwards too,

Miss_Eylesbarrow 26 Aug 10 at 9:50 a.m. GMT

Thanks Cameron, a nice easy one after your poser

What a thrilling time I've had - just like the movies!  Jewel robberies, fast cars and a beautiful woman.  Pity I've got to return to my old life, but I have a sneaking suspicion that things will be different from now on...

cameronjhw 25 Aug 10 at 6:37 p.m. GMT

Great job you got it in a nutshell. It is the cold and spiteful stepfather Roger Wetherby who hates his stepdaughter Deirdre because she has the money and he wants it. Good thing she ended up marrying James Bentley. I'm glad this one stump some people I like to make it interesting and baffling. Anyway now it's your turn. Take it away...

Miss_Eylesbarrow 25 Aug 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

Oh, hang on a sec, I've just thought, it's got to be Mr Wetherby, Deirdre Henderson's step-father.  She has the money, not her mother.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 25 Aug 10 at 5 p.m. GMT

The politician, Carpenter?

cameronjhw 25 Aug 10 at 2:33 p.m. GMT

Right book but wrong character.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 25 Aug 10 at 9:22 a.m. GMT

Mrs McGinty's dead?  Major Johnnie Summerhayes?

NightRayDuck 24 Aug 10 at 5:37 p.m. GMT

Tea, anyone?

My friends, please do not despair. Look at the clue rather than try to go through every husband/wife pair that you can think of. I feel certain that I know this character. I recall that I had burst out laughing, mirthfully, at the scene of domestic upset, since I was a child then and I had no feelings of domestic duty. I know definitely that I cannot provide a clear answer, because I know the scene, but haven't come across it lately.

Now, if we look at the guesses that have been advanced, several of them should definitely be washed out.

David Lee or Alfred Lee from Hercule Poirot's Christmas? No. Each wife is much more calm and collected than these men.

Any character from The Hollow? No. Money and inheritance have not been a concern in the particular household that the foreign man has been upsetting with absurd questions.

Hope that helps.

cameronjhw 24 Aug 10 at 5:34 p.m. GMT

No one has guessed the correct book yet. I will give my next hint: This novel is from the 1950s plus it features a recurring character besides Poirot.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 24 Aug 10 at 10:04 a.m. GMT

Has anyone guessed the correct book yet Cameron?  I'm running out of ideas.  To my mind it has to be either After the Funeral or Taken at the Flood.

cameronjhw 23 Aug 10 at 7:27 p.m. GMT

Good answers but they are not it. But you are getting close.

christie_greece 23 Aug 10 at 5:48 p.m. GMT

From "The hollow".....???

Miss_Eylesbarrow 23 Aug 10 at 4:22 p.m. GMT

Is it Taken at the Flood - Jeremy Cloade?

cameronjhw 23 Aug 10 at 3:19 p.m. GMT

Miss Eylesbarrow-I'm afraid it is not from Hercule Poirot's Christmas

christie greece-I'm glad this one sounds tricky. Ok here is the first hint I'll give: it's from a late 1940's-1950's novel

Miss_Eylesbarrow 23 Aug 10 at 2:08 p.m. GMT

Is it from Hercule Poirot's Christmas?  David or Alfred possibly?

christie_greece 23 Aug 10 at 1:19 p.m. GMT

could you please give a hint???? You chose a tricky one....

cameronjhw 21 Aug 10 at 4:16 p.m. GMT

GKCfan-Sorry it is not Timothy Abernethie although this defintely sounds like him.

darknightofrays-thank you for the compliment I hope this won't be too difficult or too easy for you or the rest of you. I try to make the clue interesting enough to puzzle the players for awhile. Let me know if anyone would like a hint.

NightRayDuck 21 Aug 10 at 6:56 a.m. GMT

I feel certain that this is a character from a story which I hadn't read in many years and that I am unable to recall. I just want to say that cameron described this character wonderfully. I love the details. 

GKCfan 21 Aug 10 at 5:13 a.m. GMT

Timothy Abernethie from After the Funeral?

cameronjhw 20 Aug 10 at 9:16 p.m. GMT

Could I try this one I have been thinking it over carefully and I think I have a really good one here it is:

"I am too busy to be concerning myself with this murder. My household is all in chaos and I can't even have my tea because some foreign man with mustasches is asking absurd questions. My wife is terribly upset. I am more concerned with getting hold of that money. She is the only person who stands in the way. Well at least she does what she is told and looks after the place"

Puffinjill 20 Aug 10 at 8:33 p.m. GMT

Bless you, darknightofrays, I'll certainly try!!!

NightRayDuck 20 Aug 10 at 5:20 p.m. GMT

Congrats Puffinjill! Yes, the character is Brian Pearson, and you've described his dilemma beautifully. I wish you a good time and good progress in what you're going to be working on. Now someone else please jump in with a good clue for the next round of guessing? 

Puffinjill 20 Aug 10 at 7:58 a.m. GMT

I know I shouldn't make a guess at this in case I am right, as I'm going away tomorrow and I'm too busy to think up a new one, but I just can't help myself!!! Could it be Brian Pearson from The Sittaford Mystery, lately returned from Australia (unbeknown to his family) and the brains behind the plans that are responsible for his new 'friends', Mrs and Miss Willett, renting Sittaford House? If this IS right, one of you kind souls will have to help me out and set the next one as my stress levels are already high and rising, and one more thing to do will turn me into a complete wreck!!

NightRayDuck 20 Aug 10 at 5:23 a.m. GMT

I am sorry cameron, but the correct solution is not yet among your guesses.

I am afraid my memory of all the stories you mentioned here is too distant for me to provide any comparison of how close any of your guesses comes to the character I had in mind.

cameronjhw 19 Aug 10 at 8:58 p.m. GMT

Is it the nephew from Four and Twenty Blackbirds, Charles Leverson from the Underdog, N or M, or Andrew Restarick from Third Girl, or Flora Ackroyd or Ralph Paton from the Murder of Roger Ackroyd

NightRayDuck 19 Aug 10 at 5:07 p.m. GMT

Yay! I've got my clue prepped, so my fingers have been itching for the keyboard for a little while. :)

I took advantage of an elderly uncle's love for money to get a "base of operation", as it were. The operation is technically illegal, of course, and has required a lot of planning, but I feel certain that I ought to do this for my, eh, new friends. While we're trying to pull it off, somehow or other my uncle just managed to get himself murdered! Now I have to keep out of sight, in case people realize that I am a prime candidate for his murder. And the operation we've planned is going wrong due to this blasted weather. And now my friends are a mess of wrecked nerves..

MissQuin 19 Aug 10 at 9:14 a.m. GMT

Yes! DarkNight you have it. Naomi the artist, who was accused of being blunt. She was aching for her love her was wrongly accused and in prison.

your turn.

NightRayDuck 19 Aug 10 at 1:12 a.m. GMT

Could it be Miss Naomi Carlton-Smith from the Harley Quin & Satterthwaite short story "The World's End"? although I feel Naomi is pretty good with words.

cameronjhw 19 Aug 10 at 12:14 a.m. GMT

Could you give us a hint please?

MissQuin 18 Aug 10 at 8:53 p.m. GMT

One guess at a time please! Butn o, it's none of those characters. If anyone wants a clue just ask.

cameronjhw 18 Aug 10 at 7:15 p.m. GMT

Is it Cora Lansquenet from After the Funeral or Arlena Marshall from Evil Under the Sun

MissQuin 18 Aug 10 at 4:22 p.m. GMT

Thanks for the hug, but sadly your answer isnt correct.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 18 Aug 10 at 1:44 p.m. GMT

Hi Miss Quin, thanks for the hugs - they are returned!  Your question is a real poser, I'm going for a wild stab in the dark - is it Louise Leidner in Murder in Mesopotamia?

MissQuin 18 Aug 10 at 9:34 a.m. GMT

OK Miss Quin steps in. Hugs sent your way Miss E.

Ok I'll try although mine are a ways too easy:

I need to explain myself. Perhaps I'm not good with words. People think I'm abrupt. Not that I care what other think! I know I should be happy. In these beautiful surroundings. But I'm not. People blame my artisic temperant. But it's more than that. That I can't be with the one I love... isn't that heartbreaking?

Puffinjill 18 Aug 10 at 8:10 a.m. GMT

Oh Miss Eylesbarrow, that's a shame! Well, take care of yourself and don't overdo it. We miss you when you're not around!

I really should stop trying to guess these if I know I'm stuck when it comes to setting the next one!! I'm really busy myself right now and can't think of one so if anyone wants to jump in, then please do!!! It would help me out alot!!!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 17 Aug 10 at 4:32 p.m. GMT

Yes, Puffinjill, it is Gabriel Stonor.  I thought I had found a difficult one, you are too good for me! 

I wish it had been a break - I've been working hard and not had time to log on

Puffinjill 17 Aug 10 at 2:48 p.m. GMT

Is it the secretary guy in Murder On The Links? I'm being vague, I know, but his name is on the tip of my tongue... it's... it's....Stonor, I think, Gabriel Stonor. Or something like that! I know he greatly admired Mme. Renauld.

And welcome back, Miss Eylesbarrow! Hope you had a good break!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 17 Aug 10 at 10:02 a.m. GMT

Hi, I'm back after a few days away.  Can't resist the temptation to nip in with a quick one...

I simply can't understand it.  I thought that I was a pretty fair judge of character, having knocked about the world over the past few years doing various things, but this revelation about my recent employer is a real shock to me.  And now this death too!  It's a complete mystery.  Good how the family are bearing up though, what a woman!

GKCfan 17 Aug 10 at 5:13 a.m. GMT

Could someone else please post the next one?  I'm a bit swamped at present...

NightRayDuck 17 Aug 10 at 2:48 a.m. GMT

GKCfan is correct! Yes, it's Lady Westholme, bustling politician in both versions, a witness with an extremely reliable manner in the novel version, a judgmental guesser in the stage play.

GKCfan 16 Aug 10 at 8:42 p.m. GMT

It's Lady Westholme from "Appointment With Death."

cameronjhw 16 Aug 10 at 8:22 p.m. GMT

Is it Hercule Poirot

NightRayDuck 16 Aug 10 at 6:19 p.m. GMT

good guesses, Cameron! Macwhirter would be particularly suited to "witness statement in near-incredible details". but I am afraid neither is correct for this particular character. Hint: Compare the second sentence and the last sentence in the clue. Something left unsaid there? ;)

cameronjhw 16 Aug 10 at 3:29 p.m. GMT

Is it Miss Casswell from the Mousetrap or Andrew Macwhirter from Towards Zero

NightRayDuck 15 Aug 10 at 6:37 p.m. GMT

Yes. It was a good reading. Also it was rather unique in the "Thirteen Problems / Tuesday Night Club" volume, where most of the other mysteries were solved by narration and questioning the narrator, rather than the usual police procedure of questioning the friends, neighbors, and other possibly involved parties.

My next character up for guessing would like to make a serious complaint against the author:

Dame Agatha had been quoted stating that a stage play adaptation would necessarily be simpler than the story in prose form, so really plot and character changes could be desirable sometimes. Well, I don't know I'd prefer either my character in the original novel, or my character in the stage play by Dame Agatha! Both characters had the same name, you see, same looks, same career path. In the novel, I hold "efficiency" as my watchword, I am observant of details, I have a good memory, and I report my witness statement in near-incredible details. In the stage play, I am judgmental, and I make guesses that might have been right, but turn out to be quite wrong because I haven't even witnessed the necessary detail. I am a pillar of respectability in the novel, but, alas, in the stage play I am merely self-important in a comical manner.

MissQuin 15 Aug 10 at 10:45 a.m. GMT

Darknight you are right! I very sad story, quite easy to work out but good to read for the characters.

NightRayDuck 14 Aug 10 at 11:46 p.m. GMT

perhaps Mrs. Bartlett, the widow who takes in laundry, in the Marple short story "Death by Drowning"?

cameronjhw 14 Aug 10 at 8:25 p.m. GMT

Is it Victoria Jones from They Come to Baghdad.

MissQuin 14 Aug 10 at 4:41 p.m. GMT

No. This woman does manual chores, not a clerk type.

NightRayDuck 13 Aug 10 at 6:31 p.m. GMT

could be Ruth Lessing from Sparkling Cyanide a.k.a. Remembered Death?

MissQuin 13 Aug 10 at 12:50 p.m. GMT

No, this woman is older than Bridget and Anne.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 13 Aug 10 at 12:24 p.m. GMT

Bridget from Murder is Easy?

MissQuin 13 Aug 10 at 12:16 p.m. GMT

No it's not Anne.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 13 Aug 10 at 10:53 a.m. GMT

Anne Beddingfield in The Man in the Brown Suit?

MissQuin 13 Aug 10 at 10:10 a.m. GMT

Wahay! Ive guessed one for the first time in ages. Here goes:

I'm a strong woman, I know that. I can lie quite effortlessly too. But I'm telling the truth when I say Ive worked hard. Now I'm prepared to do anything for some happiness with the man I love.

Puffinjill 13 Aug 10 at 7:10 a.m. GMT

Oh, yes, yes, yes!!!!!!!! It is Geraldine Mary Alexandra Brown (to be precise, just as she was!) from The Clocks. Well done, MissQuin! Over to you....

MissQuin 12 Aug 10 at 9:55 a.m. GMT

It might be The clocks? the little girl Geraldine Brown?

Puffinjill 12 Aug 10 at 7:01 a.m. GMT

OK, here goes -

I do get rather bored with all this inactivity but I find I can pass the time by watching the world go by and imagining what the people I see are like. Now I hear there has been a murder nearby!!! But I didn't see anything out of the ordinary that day so I doubt anything I could say would help point the way to the killer.

NightRayDuck 11 Aug 10 at 7:37 a.m. GMT

Congrats Puffinjill is correct! I seriously don't remember any detail from "Dumb Witness" and perhaps that's my fault for not setting my clue distinct enough from Bob. In any case, this time the answer was the strangely named cat, as Puffin said. Over to you, Puffin!

..bedtime for me.. 

Puffinjill 11 Aug 10 at 7:03 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Is it Tiglath-Pileser, the strangely named cat owned by the Reverend Julian Harmon and his wife Bunch in A Murder Is Announced. By damaging the lead on a lamp, he brings enlightenment to Miss Marple as she sees how the murderer could have managed to make the lights fuse at Little Paddocks. Clever Puss!

NightRayDuck 10 Aug 10 at 6:34 p.m. GMT

ach, you dear folks are making me want to re-read Dumb Witness, but I get seriously bored when Hastings is present.. (yes, I loved the dog, too..)

Sorry, no, the answer to this particular character description is not Bob the tiny dog from Dumb Witness, although I did get the idea from reading his entry earlier in this game.

Let's see now what else the character can tell you..

If Bob or one of his kind tears through the furniture, he is a very disobedient dog indeed. When I, or one of my kind, tear through the furniture, I am only being an idiotic [derogative term for my kind]. That "idiotic ...." is a direct quote from my mistress.

I live in a village. I don't think my mistress is the type of person to live in the city.

After the particular property damage and ensuing commotion that secured my place in the story, the sleuth went very quiet and ponderous indeed. My mistress seemed worried. The sleuth was all right, though, just thinking about the murderer's trick. If the commotion gave the sleuth a heart attack or something, I'd be in real trouble with my mistress, and with Christie fans..

Puffinjill 10 Aug 10 at 2:56 p.m. GMT

Have a great time Nofret! Hope you are taking plenty of AC to keep you company!

MissQuin 10 Aug 10 at 11:28 a.m. GMT

It's raining here too, in fact raining cats and dogs!

My guesses have been well off the mark lately. I will pull together and we'll look forward to your return Nofret!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 10 Aug 10 at 9:14 a.m. GMT

Thanks Nofret, I'll wait to see if we are correct.  Have a great holiday you lucky thing!  It's raining where I am today and I'm stuck in the office - still, got all my lovely Christie friends to 'play' with so it can't all be bad

Nofret 10 Aug 10 at 9:09 a.m. GMT

No, over to you, Miss E.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 10 Aug 10 at 9:07 a.m. GMT

I agree with Nofret, sounds like Bob the dog in Dumb Witness, or possibly the Incident of the Dog's Ball, short story.  Can't think of another dog which takes the lead (oh! ha ha!) in any of the books.  If that's correct then it's certainly Nofret's go....

Nofret 10 Aug 10 at 9:06 a.m. GMT

As I'm off on holiday tomorrow I think I'll let someone else answer this one. I hope I'm not barking up the wrong tree!!!!

NightRayDuck 09 Aug 10 at 6:06 p.m. GMT

@Nofret: Which Bob?

@Cameron: Think small. 

The character speaks again:

I am hearing where people think I am a murder accomplice-after-the-fact, or even a murderer who has eluded the law for decades. Hrumph!

Let me put it plainly - I was only messing about, the way I had always done and will continue to do, tearing through all these things that people put in the house for I can't see what reason. There was a little commotion, and some time later, I was credited with perfectly re-enacting the trick that the murderer had used. I had no idea what it was all about.

Nofret 09 Aug 10 at 8:55 a.m. GMT

Sounds like Bob to me!

cameronjhw 08 Aug 10 at 6:36 p.m. GMT

Is it Henrietta Savernake from the Hollow, Elsa Greer from Five Little Pigs, or Stephen Norton from Curtain

NightRayDuck 07 Aug 10 at 9:32 p.m. GMT

Thank you Cameron.

I habitually damage properties and lightly attack the people that I live with. So far as I remember, they scold me severely but never beat me. Hey, one of my more violent escapades was even credited with showing the sleuth how the murderer's alibi was arranged!

cameronjhw 07 Aug 10 at 6:41 p.m. GMT

You are absolutely right. It is the 16 year old and tempermental Eustace Leonides who regards his home and family as a queer place and would love to go away to school. Way to go. Now it's your turn.

NightRayDuck 06 Aug 10 at 11:57 p.m. GMT

This is an extremely random guess, but this is the impression I got from some of the characters from Crooked House.. could have been Eustace Leonides (wants to go away to school), Josephine Leonides (wants to go learn ballet, and keeps her little crooked hands very busy in the murder business), or their mother Magda (so bored, that she finds the murder a very good pretext for staging family conclaves).

I don't think any of these three characters would bother noticing that everybody's going out of their minds, though, so, as I said, this is just a random guess.

cameronjhw 06 Aug 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

All great guesses but I'm afraid none of them are the correct ones.

Here is a hint-This character comes from a non-series books/short stories.

Miss_Eylesbarrow 06 Aug 10 at 11:37 a.m. GMT

Vera Claythorn ATTWN?

Nofret 06 Aug 10 at 10:40 a.m. GMT

Stephen Farr from Hercule Poirot's Christmas (Pilar being the "interest")?

Pat_september 06 Aug 10 at 9:53 a.m. GMT

Mr Horace Blatt, the yachtsman, a "self made" man  in "Evil under the Sun"??

HarleyBarley 06 Aug 10 at 8:14 a.m. GMT

Is it anyone else from ATTWN? The hint of panicked claustrophobia is there...

cameronjhw 05 Aug 10 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

A very good guess but not the too bright William Henry Blore from ATTWN.

If any of you would like a hint please let me know

Miss_Eylesbarrow 04 Aug 10 at 9:54 a.m. GMT

Inspector Blore from ATTWN?

cameronjhw 04 Aug 10 at 1:01 a.m. GMT

Good guess but I'm afraid it is not Wally Hudd.

Nofret 03 Aug 10 at 4:45 p.m. GMT

Is it Wally Hudd from They do it with Mirrors?

cameronjhw 03 Aug 10 at 3:31 p.m. GMT

I have almost had it up to here with this place. Everyone is acting either crazy or anxious about this murder business. Although things have become a little more interesting than usual. I wish I was someplace else than here. I tell you I think we are all about to go out of our minds.

GKCfan 03 Aug 10 at 6 a.m. GMT

Yes, it is General Macarthur from And Then There Were None!  Due to the real-life figure, Christie changed the character's name to General Mackenzie, and other names have been used over the years.  

cameronjhw 03 Aug 10 at 2:33 a.m. GMT

Is it the General from Ten Little Indians

GKCfan 03 Aug 10 at 1:17 a.m. GMT

Sorry, none of those.

NightRayDuck 03 Aug 10 at 12:43 a.m. GMT

aaaah GKCfan, that's an extremely interesting question. I am handicapped by having seen very few adaptations, and being uncertain whether I have found all of the plays written by Christie. based on the books on my shelf I can come up with one possible answer..

the dragoman (tour guide, general manager of the camping site at Petra) in Appointment with Death.

There are many differences between Christie novel Appointment with Death and Christie stage play Appointment with Death. "The dragoman" character in the novel version was named "Mahmoud", and very voluble about "inequities of the Jews". The equivalent dragoman character in the stage play version was named "Aissa" and quite adamant on his Christian schooling when another character insisted on calling him "Mahommed".

GKCfan 02 Aug 10 at 8:22 p.m. GMT

Many Christie characters get upset about the changes made to their personalities in adaptations, but I have more reason to be upset than anyone else!  The book I appear in has been filmed multiple times, and nearly every time they change my name!  Indeed, Christie changed my name herself when she adapted my book for the stage.  It makes sense, though, in historical perspective.  

Nofret 02 Aug 10 at 10:05 a.m. GMT

You're right, GCKfan!

Over to you.

GKCfan 02 Aug 10 at 1:40 a.m. GMT

Emery Power from 

"The Apples of Hesperides" from The Labours of Hercules?

cameronjhw 01 Aug 10 at 8:30 p.m. GMT

Is is Michael Rogers from Endless Night, Mr. Venables from the Pale Horse, Linnet Doyle from Death on the Nile, or Sir Eustace Pedler from Man in the Brown Suit 

Nofret 01 Aug 10 at 12:25 p.m. GMT

Thank you, Puffin!

Happiness is being rich enough to afford anything I want! And if it has a "not for sale" tag, then I can afford the best people to procure it - legally or not! But now I'm shocked by what an old enemy has revealed to me. The trail is cold, but I will not be beaten!

Puffinjill 31 Jul 10 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

It most certainly IS Ronnie Garfield from The Sittaford Mystery, a young man who was willing to bend to the will of his autocratic Aunt in order to keep in her good books and, hopefully, come into a little money when she died. Well done, Nofret! Your turn now!

Puffinjill 31 Jul 10 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

It most certainly IS Ronnie Garfield from The Sittaford Mystery, a young man who was willing to bend to the will of his autocratic Aunt in order to keep in her good books and, hopefully, come into a little money when she died. Well done, Nofret! Your turn now!

Nofret 31 Jul 10 at 11:55 a.m. GMT

Is it Ronnie thinking about his aunt Caroline in The Sittaford Mystery?

Puffinjill 31 Jul 10 at 7:33 a.m. GMT

No, sorry, none of the above!

cameronjhw 31 Jul 10 at 2:49 a.m. GMT

Is it Tim Allerton or Cornelia Robson from Death on the Nile, Raymond Boynton from Appointment with Death, Mr. Gardener from Evil Under the Sun or Rosalie Otterbourne from Death on the Nile 

NightRayDuck 31 Jul 10 at 12:34 a.m. GMT

I am sure my mind has short-circuited a little while trying to come up with a quiz for the "Guess the story" game, but I'd suddenly thought of a possible answer for this game so here it is.

Edmund Swettenham from A Murder Is Announced? referring to his bossy mother, and the new gardener lady, Phillippa?

GKCfan 30 Jul 10 at 8:12 p.m. GMT

Miss Bowers in Death on the Nile?

Puffinjill 30 Jul 10 at 3:28 p.m. GMT

Oh no, not again!! Not sure I'm up to this today. OK, lets see how quickly you can get this one -

'Do this, do that!'- that's all I hear all day long! But I suppose it will be worth my while in the long run. Anything to keep her happy and me on her right side. At least this murder should liven things up a bit. AND who is this VERY attractive young woman who has appeared? I wonder why she's here?

NightRayDuck 30 Jul 10 at 7:47 a.m. GMT

yes! Victoria Jones from "They Came To Baghdad".

your turn now, Puffin. Thanks again. 

Puffinjill 30 Jul 10 at 7:03 a.m. GMT

Welcome to the boards, darknightofrays!! Would the answer be Victoria Jones from They Came To Baghdad?

NightRayDuck 29 Jul 10 at 8:47 p.m. GMT

Thank you Puffin!

first of all.. I just joined this game a few days ago and haven't read through all the posts, so I beg your pardon if what I put now is repetitive of a character already used in the game. :)

"Office job is sooo bo~o~o~o~oriiing! I don't mind that I just got fired from one! I can worry about my income and bank savings later. Right now, I'll take any job that'll let me meet up with this wonderful young man I've just met. Oh he's so sweet. He looks like he's got a puppy-love for me! I know that I am really in love with him and this is not a schoolgirl crush!"

hint- parts of this self-description do not apply by the end of the story.

Puffinjill 29 Jul 10 at 6:55 a.m. GMT

It is Anne Johnson talking about the Leidners from Murder In Mesopotamia. Well done darknightofrays! Your turn!!

cameronjhw 28 Jul 10 at 8:05 p.m. GMT

Could it be Evil Under the Sun, A Pocket Full of Rye

JuliaUpjohn 28 Jul 10 at 10:15 a.m. GMT

Agree darknightofrays with the Leidners. It could also be Judith Hastings in Curtain describing Dr and Mrs Franklin.

NightRayDuck 28 Jul 10 at 8:50 a.m. GMT

the first answer I can think of was Clair Halliwell in the short story "The Edge", about Sir Gerald Lee marrying Vivian, but I don't think Vivian set really everybody's nerves on edge, except for Clair's..

another possible couple referred to may have been the archaeologist and his wife in "Murder in Mesopotamia", and the character who would express such sentiments about the couple would be the middle-aged lady who's been a long time assistant to the archaeologist? I am sorry I can't remember their names at the moment..

ok I went and looked up my index.. Dr. Eric Leidner and Mrs. Louise Leidner seem to be the couple discussed in the clue, and I think Miss Anne Johnson would be the one to describe them thusly, but it may have been Marie Mercado who said this.

Puffinjill 28 Jul 10 at 8:16 a.m. GMT

Oh God, I'm so bad at setting these! I'm afraid this is the best I can be before I've had my breakfast -

"A man has no business marrying a woman who has NO interest in what he does! I can't see why he wanted to marry a woman like her. All she does is bring disharmony and set everyones nerves on edge."

Miss_Eylesbarrow 27 Jul 10 at 11:13 a.m. GMT

Spot on Puffinjill!  It only takes one guess......

over to you :)

Puffinjill 27 Jul 10 at 7:06 a.m. GMT

Is it Dulcie Duveen from Murder On The Links? Her sister, Bella, was causing her some concern when she first ran across Hastings right t the beginning of that book.

cameronjhw 26 Jul 10 at 9:30 p.m. GMT

Is it from After the Funeral, Hercule Poirot's Christmas, A Pocket Full of Rye or Appointment with Death

Miss_Eylesbarrow 26 Jul 10 at 3:29 p.m. GMT

are you sure you need a hint already Cameron?    Yes, it's from a novel featuring one of those two detectives.

cameronjhw 26 Jul 10 at 3:25 p.m. GMT

Is it from a Poirot or Miss Marple novel

Miss_Eylesbarrow 26 Jul 10 at 9:42 a.m. GMT

Yay!  I like Nurse Letheran, she's really good, but I don't remember her from P2F?  Probably because I didn't enjoy the book much and I raced through it as fast as poss...

This is my character for you:

'People think that I'm a bit of an air-head, but really I'm quite a serious person - I have to be with that sister of mine to look after!  You never know when she's going to go off and do something really stupid.  It's a pity I'm caught up with all this at the moment, as I'd like to get to know that handsome man better.  Perhaps I will one day?'

Nofret 25 Jul 10 at 11:11 a.m. GMT

Because of the transvestite clue I thought it might be Arthur Jackson, because the blurb on my paperback copy of A Caribbean Mystery talks about "a sinister MASSEUSE" - feminine!

GKCfan 24 Jul 10 at 9:36 p.m. GMT

A Nurse Amy Leatheran appears briefly in Passenger to Frankfurt.

MissQuin 24 Jul 10 at 8:58 p.m. GMT

I like Nurse Letheran, which other book might she have appeared in?

GKCfan 23 Jul 10 at 8:26 p.m. GMT

Yes!  You are right!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 23 Jul 10 at 9:31 a.m. GMT

Got it ( I think), Nurse Letheran from Murder in Mesopotamia.  I'm right aren't I?  Poirot suggests humourously that she might be a man dressed as a woman.

GKCfan 22 Jul 10 at 7:38 p.m. GMT

No, not Mrs. Lancaster.  Here's a hint.  The character's bigger appearance takes place in a novel that is NOT set in England.

cameronjhw 22 Jul 10 at 7:21 p.m. GMT

Could you please give us a hint?

Nofret 22 Jul 10 at 7:14 p.m. GMT

Is it Mrs Lancaster, she of the mysterious "child behind the fireplace"?

GKCfan 22 Jul 10 at 6:20 p.m. GMT

No and no.  Does anyone want a hint?

Miss_Eylesbarrow 22 Jul 10 at 10:52 a.m. GMT

Not Mr Satherthwaite?

Nofret 22 Jul 10 at 9:53 a.m. GMT

Arthur Jackson from A Caribbean Mystery?

GKCfan 21 Jul 10 at 7:55 p.m. GMT

No, sorry.  Keep guessing, and let me know if you need a hint!

Miss_Eylesbarrow 21 Jul 10 at 9:38 a.m. GMT

Is it Minks from the Man in the Brown Suit?

GKCfan 20 Jul 10 at 10:05 p.m. GMT

I have an unusual distinction in the Christieverse- I play a central role in one novel, and I may or may not have a cameo appearance in a later novel– Christie scholars aren't entirely sure whether the second character is me or just someone else with the same name.  I've had some exotic jobs, and people usually trust me, but contrary to one person's insinuation, I am NOT a transvestite!  I don't know where people get these ridiculous ideas...

cameronjhw 20 Jul 10 at 9:28 p.m. GMT

Correct it is the self-pitying and annoying Henet. Good job! Your turn

GKCfan 20 Jul 10 at 8:10 p.m. GMT

Henet from Death Comes As The End?

cameronjhw 20 Jul 10 at 7:54 p.m. GMT

Let me do one:

At last they realize I am not longer the weakling they thought. Already I made some of them aware of how I feel. Soon I will take over and...who's that...what are you doing with that sheet...no..no

Puffinjill 20 Jul 10 at 7:10 a.m. GMT

I'm thinking........ but it's a sloowwwwww process. I might take a while so if anyone else can think of one, please have a go and I'll keep dredging my brain.

Nofret 19 Jul 10 at 12:17 p.m. GMT

Could possibly be any of those, Cameron, but Puffinjill is correct, it is Harold Crackenthorpe.

Well done, over to you!

Puffinjill 19 Jul 10 at 6:43 a.m. GMT

Could it be Harold Crackenthorpe from 4.50 From Paddington? He was a man who denied any rumours of financial problems and, in Lady Alice Crackenthrope, had a wife who was of no use to him.

cameronjhw 18 Jul 10 at 6:38 p.m. GMT

Is is George Lee from Hercule Poirot's Christmas, Jeremy Cloade from Taken at the Flood, or Aristide Leonides from Crooked House

Nofret 18 Jul 10 at 9:47 a.m. GMT

Oooh, that was a crafty one, GKCfan, as far as I know the Countess' son doesn't actually appear in any of Christie's works! Think this one may be easier.

I am a successful business man and pride myself on the fact that I have achieved much more than others in my family. But I totally deny that the firm has financial problems! No, I can see a way out of this mess, although my wife will be no help at all!

GKCfan 17 Jul 10 at 10:45 p.m. GMT

Yes, Nofret!  You are right!

Nofret 17 Jul 10 at 10:08 a.m. GMT

Niki Rossakoff?

HarleyBarley 17 Jul 10 at 8 a.m. GMT

Is it from a Poirot?

GKCfan 16 Jul 10 at 10:30 p.m. GMT

No, it's not fromn a Mary Westmacott book, and it's not Sir George Stubbs.  Let me know if you need a hint.

Nofret 16 Jul 10 at 5:01 p.m. GMT

Sir George Stubbs from Dead Man's Folly?

cameronjhw 16 Jul 10 at 3:09 p.m. GMT

Is it from one of the Mary Westmacott novels?

GKCfan 15 Jul 10 at 6:03 a.m. GMT

Here's a new one:

Well, I had a rough childhood, but life is much better now that I've come to America.  Sure, my first big romance didn't work out the way I might have liked, but it's all for the best– I'm in a much more suitable relationship now.  I wonder who my father is... no one seems to have any idea, although my mother's identity is never in doubt.

cameronjhw 14 Jul 10 at 3:11 p.m. GMT

Correct it is Greta Ohlsson

GKCfan 14 Jul 10 at 4 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Greta Ohlsson?

cameronjhw 13 Jul 10 at 7:13 p.m. GMT

Here are two more hints:

She is a foreigner and a killer

cameronjhw 12 Jul 10 at 3:38 p.m. GMT

Here is a hint:

The person speaking is a woman and comes from the Poirot series

cameronjhw 11 Jul 10 at 7:42 p.m. GMT

Here's one:

I am going home to my loved ones but I do not look forward to what is going to happen. But I know it must be done. May God forgive me

Nofret 11 Jul 10 at 4:17 p.m. GMT

I suspect that the producers thought that the Witchcraft element would not be believable nowadays. Still, it was a very telling moment when Poirot pointed out that this sixteen year-old boy had the hands of a man - ie. could have easily strangled Arlena!

But I digress. Over to Cameron.

MissQuin 11 Jul 10 at 10:07 a.m. GMT

Yeah, that was odd they way linda was then a man! Then there were men.. Maybe they could find a strapping 16 year old actress at that time?  

Nofret 10 Jul 10 at 4:50 p.m. GMT

My next clue would have been "On TV I changed sex"!

Yes, Cameron, it is Linda Marshall from Evil Under the Sun.

Your turn.

MissQuin 09 Jul 10 at 3:04 p.m. GMT

Or might be Clare in the short story The Edge?

cameronjhw 09 Jul 10 at 2:34 p.m. GMT

Is it Linda Marshall from Evil Under the Sun

Nofret 09 Jul 10 at 11:13 a.m. GMT

3 good guesses, but none of them is the person I have in mind.

cameronjhw 08 Jul 10 at 8:30 p.m. GMT

Is is Jackie de Bellefort from Death on the Nile, Rosamund Darnley from Evil Under the Sun, or is it Yahmose from Death Comes as the End

Nofret 08 Jul 10 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

OK, here goes:

Sometimes I wish I was dead - oh, why did he have to go and marry that painted tart? We could be so happy without her around spoiling everything. But I think I've found a way to get rid of her......

Puffinjill 08 Jul 10 at 2:24 p.m. GMT

Bang on, Nofret!!!! Your turn now.....

Nofret 08 Jul 10 at 9:25 a.m. GMT

Just found it! Lily Marbury!

Puffinjill 08 Jul 10 at 6:42 a.m. GMT

Name please, Nofret........

Nofret 07 Jul 10 at 9:05 a.m. GMT

I think it's the ABC Murders, the landlady's daughter who warns Mr Cust that the police are coming to question him.

Puffinjill 07 Jul 10 at 8:27 a.m. GMT

OK!!

This is ever so exciting!! I wonder if what we have been imagining can really be true? After all, he seems such a nice quiet man and I'm sure he wouldn't hurt a fly. And now we've got Scotland Yard involved. Perhaps I should warn him in some way that they may be coming to see him.

Way too easy, I expect for all you Christie die-hards out there!!!!

Nofret 06 Jul 10 at 11:38 a.m. GMT

Sorry for the delay - have been away in France but so glad to be back!

Yes, well done, it is Katrina Samoushenka fron The Arcadian Deer, such a sweet love story!

Your turn, PJ!

Puffinjill 24 Jun 10 at 6:38 a.m. GMT

Wild stab in the dark, I know, but could it be Katrina Samoushenka from The Arcadian Deer? Probably not, but worth a try!!!!!

cameronjhw 23 Jun 10 at 2:41 p.m. GMT

It is Romaine Heilger (Leonard Vole's wife) from Witness for the Prosecution

Nofret 23 Jun 10 at 1:24 p.m. GMT

Could be (though in the latest adaptation Jane Asher looked ravishing!) but it isn't her.

Clue - The character appears in a short story.

MissQuin 22 Jun 10 at 5:11 p.m. GMT

Could it be the first Mrs Protheroe in Murder at the vicarage? I seem to remember her being ill (or maybe that was the adapt), her lover gone, remembering the day she left her daughter??

Nofret 21 Jun 10 at 3:09 p.m. GMT

Not from The Thirteen problems.

Clue - she lied about her background.

MissQuin 20 Jun 10 at 9:51 a.m. GMT

They didn't have botox then! Elsa would have made do with piling on make up, which gives a very unhealthy look.

Is it from The Thirteen Problems?

Nofret 19 Jun 10 at 10:40 a.m. GMT

MissQ - with all that money Elsa could afford to remain young and beautiful, she says enviously!

Cameron - it's not from In a Glass Darkly, but this person does appear in a short story.

MissQuin 18 Jun 10 at 9:06 p.m. GMT

Elsa Five little pigs? Although not physically near to death, she kept saying "I died" those two words summed up so much meaning.. it was summer and her lover gone.

cameronjhw 18 Jun 10 at 8:27 p.m. GMT

Is it the woman from the story In a Glass Darkly?

Nofret 18 Jun 10 at 3:45 p.m. GMT

No, though it is a woman speaking.

MissQuin 16 Jun 10 at 5:53 p.m. GMT

Is it the old lady in Sad Cypress, she was dying, her lover gone.

Nofret 16 Jun 10 at 4:40 p.m. GMT

I suppose it could be Michael Rogers remembering Ellie, though his lover didn't exactly desert him! No, this person has nothing in common with Michael.

Mr_Lansquenet 16 Jun 10 at 1:35 p.m. GMT

Michael Rogers from "Endless Night"?

Nofret 16 Jun 10 at 12:48 p.m. GMT

Good guess, Scooby, but no. And the person is not from a Harley Quin story.

Scooby_Doo 15 Jun 10 at 5:43 p.m. GMT

The Englishwoman from the Mr. Quin story The Man From The Sea?

cameronjhw 15 Jun 10 at 4:22 p.m. GMT

Is it from one of the Harley Quin short stories?

Nofret 15 Jun 10 at 8:04 a.m. GMT

Here goes:

Please - don't look at me. I want you to remember me as I was, young and beautiful. Now I'm near to death, and even my lover has deserted me. But why do I keep remembering that summer's day.....?

MissQuin 13 Jun 10 at 10:32 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Yes! You got it! I was very disapointed when Mr Ellsworthy was cut from the dreadful Marple adapt of Murder is Easy. Why? I don't know. I just found him interesting, he was so creepy. He draws people (women!!) then in anger crossed them out, as they weren't interested. You can see why. His little gatherings were Satanistic rituals! Brigdet called him artitisc, he protested.

But I must protest a chickens being sacrificed! Bad man indeed.

He reminds me of a kind of Dorian Gray crossed with Oscar Wilde. I don't know why. Anyway take it away Nofret!

Nofret 13 Jun 10 at 9:32 a.m. GMT

Is it the effete Mr Ellsworthy from Murder is Easy?

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 7:16 p.m. GMT

Not a strong character, actually quite weak, but shares the same  perverse nature of Mr Shaitnana.

Yes they draw people.

Mr_Lansquenet 12 Jun 10 at 5:38 p.m. GMT

Ok

1 - I've read it

2 - He/she lives in a village

3 - Strong charachter frequently having people at home

It's the sketches-stuff that puzzles me.i was thinking of Capt. Trevelyan, but he was into acrostycs, not sketches... Unless, being a foreigner, I am not mistaking the meaning of "sketches": drawings?

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 5:06 p.m. GMT

No, sorry, but don't give up. This person's not a artist by profession, just sketches.

hint, Mr L Ive jsut checked your reading list and you have read this one!

Mr_Lansquenet 12 Jun 10 at 4:06 p.m. GMT

My last guesses (two). Basil Blake or Lawrende Redding?

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 4 p.m. GMT

This person lives in a village.

Mr_Lansquenet 12 Jun 10 at 3:57 p.m. GMT

I'd love to. I'm becoming unbearable with my wrong guesses

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 3:54 p.m. GMT

No. want a clue?

Mr_Lansquenet 12 Jun 10 at 3:51 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

You're not tellin me it's the magnificient miss Gilchrist...

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 3:46 p.m. GMT

Nope. But although this person say's they don't want to be called artistc, they actually do drawings.

Mr_Lansquenet 12 Jun 10 at 2:46 p.m. GMT

I meant that it "could" possibly be a female, indeed

Amyas Crale?

MissQuin 12 Jun 10 at 9:30 a.m. GMT

Mr L, you misunderstood. I havent yet said if the person was male of female.

Nofret, nope!

Nofret 12 Jun 10 at 6:44 a.m. GMT

Montague Corner from Lord Edgeware Dies?

Mr_Lansquenet 11 Jun 10 at 5:41 p.m. GMT

Oh but I didn't think it could be a female. How about Madame Giselle?

MissQuin 11 Jun 10 at 3:09 p.m. GMT

Nope, sorry your wrong Nofret. But Mr L, you are rather closer, as the mystery character shares some character traits with Mr Shaitana.

Cameron, well it would be rather to oeasy to say if it's a short story or novel. But I don't think we use the plays in this game, as theyre not as accesable for people to guess.

Nofret 11 Jun 10 at 12:33 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

It's the gay Mr Robin Upward from Mrs McGinty's Dead, isn't it? One of my favourite murderers!

Mr_Lansquenet 11 Jun 10 at 12:32 a.m. GMT

Shantana perhaps, from "Cards on the table"?

cameronjhw 10 Jun 10 at 9:33 p.m. GMT

Can you tell me if the character is from a play, short story or novel

MissQuin 10 Jun 10 at 5:38 p.m. GMT

Here's one

So you want to know all about me? I find that just too marvellous! People say I have an artistic temperament, but don't say that! I can't bear it. (grins) Anyway, I must get ready as I have friends coming down from London. One of our little gatherings.

cameronjhw 10 Jun 10 at 5:20 p.m. GMT

That's correct

MissQuin 10 Jun 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

Anthony Browne, Sparkling Cyanide!

cameronjhw 10 Jun 10 at 4:53 p.m. GMT

Ok, Here's another one.

I'm an American and I spent some time in jail for certain charges. I turn out to be a good guy and become a suspect in a murder case at a dinner party. I fall in love with one of the suspects and manage to save her life and help solve the mystery.

MissQuin 10 Jun 10 at 2:43 p.m. GMT

That's Miss Brent, then there were none. Good first clue, but perhaps make them a bit harder? Because our puzzle guessers are a very clever bunch!

cameronjhw 09 Jun 10 at 9:17 p.m. GMT

I would to give it a try:

CLUE: I'm 65 years old, I read my Bible and I'm very religious. I also discharged a pregnant maid who committed suicide. I end up "stung by a bumblebee".

I hope this is how I'm suppose to play this game.

MissQuin 16 May 10 at 9:43 a.m. GMT

 "The mirror crack'd from side to side, "The curse has come upon me" cried The Lady Of Shallot. When Marian Gregg face freezes she is compared to her, it's an excellent description. Or at least I thought so  Also like the fact Dolly Bantry's returns in this one.

GKCfan 15 May 10 at 6:47 p.m. GMT

Correct!  Funny how screenwriters think his murder isn't worth depicting!  What's the quote from The Mirror Crack'd you like, Miss Quin?

MissQuin 15 May 10 at 10:42 a.m. GMT

Giuseppe the Butler. I think Tommy got it right first. I had to run off to my bookshelves. Ive only read the Mirror Crack'd once, it's not one of my favourites, although it does contain one my most loved quotes.

I do find the two mirror titles confusing too Nofet!

Nofret 14 May 10 at 5 p.m. GMT

Oh dear! I got The Mirror Crack'd mixed up with They do it with Mirrors (the one with the obvious solution)! I was thinking of the boy who boasted that he knew the identity of the murderer, and got killed along with the Restarick brother!

Can't remember your butler at all! Well done for such a clever puzzle - we'll all have to look it up now!

Tommy_A_Jones 14 May 10 at 1:47 p.m. GMT

I can't think of his name, It might be Carlos but let someone else have a go as I can think of someone but forgotten his/her name so someone else have a go and I will research the book in question

GKCfan 13 May 10 at 6:18 p.m. GMT

Right character... do we want to go for the name or move on now?

Tommy_A_Jones 13 May 10 at 4:39 p.m. GMT

I think it is the Butler but I can't remember his name and someone else can have the next go as I can't think of one.

Nofret 13 May 10 at 10:49 a.m. GMT

Ah yes, I was right about the book and I think I've guessed the character but can't remember his name. Library closed for refurbishment - so could always sneak into W H Smith's and check up!

MissQuin 12 May 10 at 8:34 p.m. GMT

I know who it is, but I'll let Tommy guess as he was on the right track.

GKCfan 12 May 10 at 7:51 p.m. GMT

Tommy_A_Jones, right book, wrong character!

MissQuin 12 May 10 at 4:40 p.m. GMT

GKCfan

Everybody is right to say that blackmailers get murdered a lot... I should know!  Indeed, I'm not the only one from this murder case that knows that...  But I'm insulted!  My murder hasn't even been included in most of the adaptations of this Christie book!

I don't know if this clue means that this characters a blackmailer that is killed, or if their the murderer that has killed a blackmailer.

They say "my murder" do they mean the murder of themselves or their crime?

But the murder you mentioned Tommy was included in the adaptation of TMCFSTS, so that's what I meant to say.

Tommy_A_Jones 12 May 10 at 4:37 p.m. GMT

Oh does this person have to be someone who doesn't die then?

MissQuin 12 May 10 at 3:55 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

The Mirror Crack'd spoilers:

Ive seen the Hickson verision and she was murdered, so I don't think it's her.

Tommy_A_Jones 12 May 10 at 3:39 p.m. GMT

Ella Zeilinsky (The Mirror Crack'd From Side To Side)

MissQuin 12 May 10 at 2:39 p.m. GMT

I'm stuck GKC can we have a clue please?

Nofret 06 May 10 at 11:44 a.m. GMT

I think I can guess this character - unfortunately I don't have a copy of the book as it's never been one of my favourites because the solution is too obvious. Therefore I don't know the character's name!

GKCfan 05 May 10 at 1:38 p.m. GMT

Nope, sorry.

Nofret 05 May 10 at 7:19 a.m. GMT

Well, there have been many adaptations of And Then There Were None (under its various alternative non-PC titles!). And none of them feature the murder of the gofer Morris. He was a drug dealer, did he do a bit of blackmail on the side?

Lone_Wolf 04 May 10 at 6:46 p.m. GMT

"Most of the adaptions" definitely resricts the search. Which Christie books had three or more adaptions?

GKCfan 04 May 10 at 6:17 p.m. GMT

Everybody is right to say that blackmailers get murdered a lot... I should know!  Indeed, I'm not the only one from this murder case that knows that...  But I'm insulted!  My murder hasn't even been included in most of the adaptations of this Christie book!

Nofret 04 May 10 at 2:50 p.m. GMT

Yes, GKCfan, it is indeed Mary Dove, another fascinating Christie character. Your turn!

Lone_Wolf 04 May 10 at 7:35 a.m. GMT

Yeah, Mary definitely. And yeah, she's actually a rare example of a blackmailer that got off lightly - though it wasn't the murderer she was blackmailing.

GKCfan 04 May 10 at 7:04 a.m. GMT

I can only think of one person who fits all the clues– Mary Dove from A Pocket Full of Rye?

Nofret 03 May 10 at 6:31 p.m. GMT

Not Mlle Blanche. BUT, Lone Wolf, this is one blackmailer who wasn't murdered, in fact, got off quite lightly>

Lone_Wolf 03 May 10 at 5:24 p.m. GMT

And her blackmailers always end up badly. The surest way for a Christie character to sign his own death warrant is blackmail. Is there a blackmailer who wаsn't murdered in her books?

MissQuin 03 May 10 at 10:30 a.m. GMT

There's quite alot of blackmailers in Chrisite land! Hmm the French teacher in Cat among the pigeons?

Nofret 03 May 10 at 8:18 a.m. GMT

No, it's not Jane Wilkinson.

This person added blackmail to their crimes.

Mr_Graves 02 May 10 at 11:45 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

An alias, hmmm? Jane Wilkinson pretended to be some old woman, but then she was the actual murderer, so...

Nofret 02 May 10 at 3:05 p.m. GMT

Not Julia, though this person was also operating under an alias.

MissQuin 02 May 10 at 1:50 p.m. GMT

Could be Julia in Murder is Announced, she had no sympathy for the victims, but wasn't the murderer.

Nofret 02 May 10 at 11:21 a.m. GMT

Not Miss Waynflete, nor Dr Sheppard.

Curiously enough, this person isn't a murderer.

Onapi11 01 May 10 at 11:34 p.m. GMT

is it honoria Waynflete from Murder is easy ? (i think thats her name)

MissQuin 01 May 10 at 5:23 p.m. GMT

It could be Dr Sheppard in Murder of Roger ackyod, he certainly said the victims had what they deserved. One was suicide, but it was his doing.

Nofret 01 May 10 at 1:39 p.m. GMT

Not Elsa, there was only one murder in Five Little Pigs before the police investigated.

Onapi11 01 May 10 at 10:51 a.m. GMT

could it be elsa greer from five little pigs?

Nofret 29 Apr 10 at 10:30 a.m. GMT

Good guess, but no!

MissQuin 28 Apr 10 at 5:29 p.m. GMT

How about The Moving Finger, Mr Symmington?

Nofret 27 Apr 10 at 5:50 p.m. GMT

It was the mention of the ranch that gave it away!

Try this one:

The murders? Those victims got what they deserved! But now the police are nosing around and they've got me rattled. However, I'm not the only one with a guilty secret, perhaps I'll use that to my advantage.

GKCfan 27 Apr 10 at 5:23 p.m. GMT

Yes!  You got it!  I wanted to do a non-human character...  Well done, Norfret!

Nofret 27 Apr 10 at 10:28 a.m. GMT

It's Bob, isn't it? The little terrier from Dumb Witness, adopted by Hastings and taken back to Argentina.

GKCfan 26 Apr 10 at 8:49 p.m. GMT

"Everyone thought that I almost killed the old lady, but they were wrong!  It would all have been much easier if they understood me.  I wonder what life on a ranch will be like?"

Nofret 26 Apr 10 at 11:01 a.m. GMT

Top marks, GKCfan! It is indeed that bent copper William Henry Blore, and the "other business" was when he framed Landor, who was hanged. Blore claimed that he had no choice, as he was being blackmailed.

Your turn!

GKCfan 25 Apr 10 at 7:36 p.m. GMT

William Henry Blore in And Then There Were None?  He's referring to Lombard and Miss Brent in your follow-up quotes, isn't he?  The "other business" refers to the Landor case.

Nofret 25 Apr 10 at 5:13 p.m. GMT

Oh, everybody's read this book!

MissQuin 25 Apr 10 at 11:42 a.m. GMT

I have a feeling now it's a book Ive not read.

Nofret 25 Apr 10 at 11:23 a.m. GMT

This character got his comeuppance, as did the "smarmy bloke".

Onapi11 25 Apr 10 at 4:19 a.m. GMT

could you give us another clue?

Nofret 23 Apr 10 at 8:13 a.m. GMT

Sorry, Onapi, somehow I missed your post. It's not Bobby Jones, or Victoria Jones, but you're on the right track.

MissQuin 22 Apr 10 at 4:47 p.m. GMT

I posted my story under the misc catergory, Bainton Gray mystery I hope you enjoy it!

I'm going to scour my Christie books!

Nofret 22 Apr 10 at 4:42 p.m. GMT

I look forward to reading your story!

Not Ladislaus Malinowski.

"Little old ladies? Well, I've got my eye on one, she ain't from St Mary Mead, and she's definitely a wrong'un!"

MissQuin 22 Apr 10 at 4:26 p.m. GMT

Not the racing car driver in At Bertram's Hotel?

My little grey cells are tired I'm afraid, Ive been  so busy working on my little story.

Nofret 22 Apr 10 at 4:22 p.m. GMT

No, not James Ryder.

"I've never met anyone from Belgium!"

MissQuin 21 Apr 10 at 4:50 p.m. GMT

mmm, puzzling! How about James Ryder is Death in the clouds?

Nofret 21 Apr 10 at 8:59 a.m. GMT

It's not from The Clocks or Third Girl, but you're right about the person being rough and blunt.

MissQuin 20 Apr 10 at 4:26 p.m. GMT

Actually I'm not sure now.. It could be someone in the The Clocks?

MissQuin 17 Apr 10 at 10:12 a.m. GMT

Oh, I'm way out of my depth here! That smarmy bloke, he saw through me straight away. As for that other business, well, what could I have done?

I have this feeling, that "the smarmy bloke" could be referring to Poirot! Or at least I think there was a later book someone called him smarmy. I could be wrong though... sounds like someone rough, blunt speaking.

Is it David Baker Third Girl?

Onapi11 17 Apr 10 at 5:31 a.m. GMT

Is it Bobby Jones from 'Why diddn't they ask Evans'

or mabey Victoria Jones from 'they came to Bagdad'

Nofret 16 Apr 10 at 1:34 p.m. GMT

Merci beaucoup, mademoiselle!

Oh, I'm way out of my depth here! That smarmy bloke, he saw through me straight away. As for that other business, well, what could I have done?

MissQuin 14 Apr 10 at 8:50 p.m. GMT

Yes! You got it Nofret, it's Ruth Lessing. She was talking about Rosemary I won't be ever able to forget that hated person ever.. Rosemary means remembrance. Care for her boss, loves and plans to marry Victor Drake.

Your turn mon ami!

Nofret 14 Apr 10 at 8:13 p.m. GMT

Is it Ruth Lessing in Sparkling Cyanide?

MissQuin 13 Apr 10 at 4:56 p.m. GMT

I don't actually think that Jackie felt anything for anyone except Simon.

Anyway it's not Jackie. I'm pleased that this ones a bit more challeging for you all!

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Apr 10 at 4:40 p.m. GMT

Jaqueline De Bellefort

MissQuin 13 Apr 10 at 11:34 a.m. GMT

No it's not Gwenda. if you'd like a clue anytime then just ask.

Nofret 13 Apr 10 at 11:03 a.m. GMT

Gwenda Vaughan in Ordeal by Innocence?

MissQuin 12 Apr 10 at 3:24 p.m. GMT

I'm trying to think of a clue that's not too obvious...

The character was planning on getting married.

Puffinjill 12 Apr 10 at 3:06 p.m. GMT

Well, I'm good and stuck so a little clue might unstick my brain.

MissQuin 12 Apr 10 at 11:39 a.m. GMT

Again a good guess, but not correct. If you get stuck, just ask, I can give you a clue.

Nofret 12 Apr 10 at 9:45 a.m. GMT

Again, probably too obvious, but it would fit Audrey Strange, before the start of Towards Zero she feels friendly towards Thomas, is in love with his brother, and hates her husband.

MissQuin 11 Apr 10 at 11:44 a.m. GMT

Good guess Nofret, but not the character I was thinking of.

Nofret 11 Apr 10 at 10:44 a.m. GMT

Elsa Greer in Five Little Pigs could fit, the one I love (Amyas) and one I hate (Caroline), but the one I feel for? Possibly her current husband?

MissQuin 09 Apr 10 at 4:25 p.m. GMT

Nope!! I made it look like it's her but it isnt.

Nofret 09 Apr 10 at 4:07 p.m. GMT

Elinor Carlile in Sad Cypress?

MissQuin 09 Apr 10 at 1:23 p.m. GMT

Ok here goes..

I pride myself on my keeping my cool. I'm always calm and collected on the surface. But I met a person who changed my life forever. Theres three people who determined my fate- one I feel for, one I love and one I  hate. I won't be ever able to forget that hated person ever..

MissQuin 09 Apr 10 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Thank you mon ami, I'm going to try and think of something truly puzzling!

Puffinjill 09 Apr 10 at 6:14 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

See? Now who's guessing them quickly? Yes, you are correct, my friend, it is indeed Major Richard Setoun Erskine from Sleeping Murder. Such a sad but honourable character, who stayed with his wife rather than take his chance of happiness with Helen. 

Well done to you! I look forward to your next puzzle!

MissQuin 08 Apr 10 at 9:06 a.m. GMT

Richard Erskine in Sleeping Murder would fit? His wife was very jealous and Gwenda opened old wounds. That's one of my favourite Chrisites.

Puffinjill 08 Apr 10 at 6:24 a.m. GMT

Your puzzles are great, MissQuin. Don't stop setting them! I find it easier to guess them than set them but have a go at this one -

After all these years, along comes someone to remind me of the past. And I had learnt to put that behind me and make the most of the life I chose with my wife. Now her jealousy will make us all unhappy.

See, not good at all! sure it will be easy to guess.

MissQuin 06 Apr 10 at 11:56 a.m. GMT

You have it right again, I think your a champion at these.   So quickly as well! I will have to stop guessing at these I think, as when it's my go I make them not puzzling enough! Lady Horbury's a real tough person to deal with, as you picked up on that.

Your turn puffinjill

Puffinjill 06 Apr 10 at 6:11 a.m. GMT

Would it be Lady Cicely Horbury from Death In The Clouds?

MissQuin 05 Apr 10 at 7:12 p.m. GMT

Here I go, sorry Ive not come up with something good. I'm such a puzzle novice.

Don't you know who I am?! With my title, I should be treated with deference. But that awful Inspector clearly didn't see it that way!

Nofret 05 Apr 10 at 9:04 a.m. GMT

Well done, it is indeed Cornelia Robson, definitely a "one-off" character in the Christie canon!

Your turn!

MissQuin 04 Apr 10 at 10:26 a.m. GMT

It could be Cordelia from Death on the Nile? She was described as quite plain and frumpy. She did enjoy life and was given an oppuntinity. But the kleptomania was kept from her for a while I think.

She ended up with 2 marriage proposals, but because of her personailty attracted one man.

Nofret 04 Apr 10 at 10:04 a.m. GMT

Come on, you lot! Any guesses?

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Mar 10 at 1:15 p.m. GMT

Thankyou Nofret, Well done.

Nofret 27 Mar 10 at 9:27 a.m. GMT

I think you mean Colin Lamb is Battle's son!

Anyway, try this one:

Although I'm not wealthy, clever, or attractive to the opposite sex, I try to keep busy and enjoy life, especially now that I've been give such an opportunity. But I can't help feeling that someone is keeping something from me.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Mar 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

Nofret you have the right person but the wrong reason, He was willing to Collaborate in Cards On The Table and has been allowed to shine on hus owwn in Towards Zero and "If what people say is right is true someone has done something that I can't condone" refers to the fact that Most people think Battle is Colin's son and He let Miss Pebmarsh escape and as Battle is a Policeman he wouldn't condone that would he. 

Nofret 26 Mar 10 at 9:09 a.m. GMT

Superintendant Battle in Towards Zero, thinking about his daughter, Sylvia?

MissQuin 25 Mar 10 at 5:10 p.m. GMT

I thought comes up with the goods, Mr Goby. But it's not him as he's not close to anyone....oh I'm stuck. I'll keep guessing though, great fun this by the way.

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Mar 10 at 4:21 p.m. GMT

Sorry, It isn't George and it isn't Christian Gilbranson infact it isn't a character who appears in a Miss Marple book.

Nofret 24 Mar 10 at 4:59 p.m. GMT

Of course, you're quite right, MissQ, Poirot's last written instruction to Hastings was "Go and talk to Georges"!

How about Christian Gulbrandsen from They do it with Mirrors?

MissQuin 24 Mar 10 at 4:21 p.m. GMT

Didn't George meet Hastings? I don't know I thought he did in Curtian.

Nofret 24 Mar 10 at 4:04 p.m. GMT

Is it Poirot's valet Georges?

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Mar 10 at 4:39 p.m. GMT

Sorry Miss Quin not Hastings, he never met this person who as you have correctly guessed is a Man

MissQuin 23 Mar 10 at 3:14 p.m. GMT

Can you see my mistake? I thought this was the quess the quote game!!  Actually my minds on the mystery I was writing, but Ive finnished now and can hopefully concentrate.

hmmm I am rarely seen but have come up with the goods on occassions but I am not too proud to collaborate, If what people think is right someone close to me has done something I really can't condone.

I don't think it can be Harley Quin, as no-ones close to him. It sounds like it could be Captain Hastings in Curtain? He did make the odd remark that helped the case.

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Mar 10 at 5:13 p.m. GMT

Yes I thought you meant that but I thought It was out of my brain but I must have subliminalably remembered it, and thankyou for your kind words Miss Quin, I have no idea yet if the Character I am diacribing appears in the book where you read the quote, but I will explain my thinking wehrn the person is worked out.

MissQuin 22 Mar 10 at 5:04 p.m. GMT

I mean I read your Christie quote in one of her books, but I can't place it.

 Dont put yourself down Tommy, your puzzles good enough for me.

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Mar 10 at 4:59 p.m. GMT

Oh, How odd, It was just my way of describing someone but I must have read it somewhere too.

MissQuin 22 Mar 10 at 4:55 p.m. GMT

I think youve set a good puzzle Tommy! I think Ive read that line, but I cant think where!

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Mar 10 at 4:48 p.m. GMT

No sorry Puffin, I wouldn't laugh at you ever, thankyou for guessing, Perhaps otherr people think any teezer I set is below them.

Puffinjill 22 Mar 10 at 6:33 a.m. GMT

Gosh, this is a tough one Tommy. I'll make a guess but without much confidence that I'm right. Coming from the 'rarely seen' and 'not to proud to collaborate' angle, could it be Mr Harley Quin? If I'm completely wrong, don't fall about laughing too much!!!

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Mar 10 at 12:35 p.m. GMT

I will have a go; I am rarely seen but have come up with the goods on occassions but I am not too proud to collaborate, If what people think is right someone close to me has done something I really can't condone.

GKCfan 14 Mar 10 at 6:12 p.m. GMT

You are correct!  Well done!

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Mar 10 at 5:39 p.m. GMT

Miss Chadwick Cat Among The Pigeons

GKCfan 13 Mar 10 at 6:17 p.m. GMT

Here's the new clue:

I love my job and I love working with my best friend, but if my friend proceeds as planned, everything we've worked so hard for all these years might be ruined.  You cannot trust the younger generation to maintain the same standards of excellence that we have.  Already a killer has imperiled our reputation, and we are all in danger.  I must protect myself, my friend, and my workplace...

Puffinjill 13 Mar 10 at 3:08 p.m. GMT

You have it, my friend! It is indeed Andrew MacWhirter, the truth-bending Scot in Towards Zero. Over to you for the next one!!

GKCfan 13 Mar 10 at 7:21 a.m. GMT

MacWhirter in Towards Zero!

Puffinjill 13 Mar 10 at 7:09 a.m. GMT

You are getting there, MissQuin! You have the right book but not the right character. Have a look at the original clue again, and see who you think it might apply to - 

I always prided myself on my honesty, only to lose all I valued because of this. Now, by bending the truth, I have realised that there are more important things in this life.

MissQuin 12 Mar 10 at 3:45 p.m. GMT

Superintendant Battle mentions Poirot in Towards Zero and by Battle adopting Poirot's way of thinking , it  helps him solve the crime. So is it Battle?

Puffinjill 12 Mar 10 at 2:38 p.m. GMT

No, MissQuin, it isn't! Have a look back at the last clue I gave - not a book in which Poirot personally appears BUT he certainly gets mentioned and, in doing so, helps those solving the crime.

MissQuin 11 Mar 10 at 5:08 p.m. GMT

Is it Charles Enderby in the Sittaford Mystery?

Puffinjill 11 Mar 10 at 6:19 a.m. GMT

I'm afraid you are both wrong, Tommy and HerculeJC. Not Anthony Cade or Jimmy Thesiger. And this character never encountered Miss Marple.

So, what do we know? It's a male, never met Miss Marple and is in a book where Poirot does not appear - not in person, but he might still have been mentioned by other characters in the book......

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Mar 10 at 1:07 p.m. GMT

Jimmy Thesiger?

HerculeJC 10 Mar 10 at 12:43 p.m. GMT

Could it be Anthony Cade, from "The Secret of Chimneys"?

If not, is it someone who encountered an insightful old lady from Saint Mary Mead??

Puffinjill 04 Mar 10 at 6:47 a.m. GMT

Sorry, but no. This character doesn't feature in a book where Poirot appears.

Tommy_A_Jones 03 Mar 10 at 4:19 p.m. GMT

Colin in The Clocks

Puffinjill 02 Mar 10 at 6:38 a.m. GMT

No again, Tommy. Have another guess and I'll try to think of a clue that might help.

Tommy_A_Jones 01 Mar 10 at 5:01 p.m. GMT

Michael in Endless Night

Puffinjill 22 Feb 10 at 7:39 a.m. GMT

I know who you mean but it's not her. In fact, it's not a HER at all. Does that help?

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Feb 10 at 3:06 p.m. GMT

The bDoctor's Sister or Wife, (Can't remember which she is nand can't remember her name sorry.)

Puffinjill 21 Feb 10 at 8:05 a.m. GMT

No, not Gerda either. Keep going Tommy!

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Feb 10 at 5:03 p.m. GMT

irda Christow |The Hollow

Puffinjill 20 Feb 10 at 7 a.m. GMT

No, I'm sorry Tommy, it isn't Ann Protheroe. Have another guess.

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Feb 10 at 4:41 p.m. GMT

Ann Protheroe (Murder At The Vicarage)?

Puffinjill 12 Feb 10 at 7:35 a.m. GMT

Thank you, Nofret! Have a great holiday! Right, on to the next one. Try this one...

I always prided myself on my honesty, only to lose all I valued because of this. Now, by bending the truth, I have realised that there are more important things in this life.

Nofret 11 Feb 10 at 4:51 p.m. GMT

Well done again, Puffinjill, yes, Zachariah Osborne is correct. Based, as you say, on a dispenser who Agatha never forgot - he carried a lump of curare around in his pocket as he said he liked the feeling of power it gave him!

Your turn!

Puffinjill 11 Feb 10 at 6:32 a.m. GMT

Oh, I think I know!!! Is it the little chemist chappie Zachariah Osborne from The Pale Horse? I know he was based on the strange little man AC worked with in the Dispensary during WW1.

Nofret 10 Feb 10 at 4:04 p.m. GMT

Good guess, Puffinjill, as Sir Eustace was based on Archie Christie's boss. But this character was based on a colleague of Agatha's.

Puffinjill 09 Feb 10 at 2:40 p.m. GMT

It's not Sir Eustace Pedler, is it?

And I'm not jealous of your holiday AT ALL.....

Nofret 09 Feb 10 at 8:44 a.m. GMT

Hey, hurry up and guess me, everyone - I'm off on hol to Oz on Monday!

Clue - I was based on someone from Dame Agatha's past.

Nofret 22 Jan 10 at 9:03 a.m. GMT

No, and Col. Pikeaway does not appear in the same book as my chap.

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Jan 10 at 3:56 p.m. GMT

Mr Pikeway

Nofret 21 Jan 10 at 7:39 a.m. GMT

Both good guesses, Hercule, but neither is correct.

A little clue. "St Mary's Mead? Never heard of it! And I've never met anyone from Belgium!"

HerculeJC 21 Jan 10 at 1:55 a.m. GMT

PARKER PYNE

or

COLONEL RACE

Nofret 19 Jan 10 at 5:44 p.m. GMT

Wouldn't describe Mr S as a professional man - he's probably never done a day's work in his life, unlike my hardworking chap!

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Jan 10 at 3:36 p.m. GMT

Mr Satterthwaite?

Nofret 19 Jan 10 at 9:02 a.m. GMT

No, it isn't Mr Quin or any character from the Mr Quin stories.

HerculeJC 18 Jan 10 at 7:01 p.m. GMT

I thought of Shaitana remembering 'who's who'.

How about THE MYSTERIOUS MR. QUINN?

Nofret 18 Jan 10 at 8:58 a.m. GMT

It isn't our favourite Plod, Ampman!

Hercule, Major P probably believed that he never forgot a face, but he needed his little photos to aid his memory, didn't he? And the flamboyant Mr Shaitana? Very noticeable, I'd imagine (especially when played by the gorgeous Alexander Siddig!)

HerculeJC 17 Jan 10 at 7:54 p.m. GMT

I have a feeling this is an eventual victim.

My first thought was Major Pallgrave, from A Caribbean Mystery.

However, on reflecting I will guess: M. Shaitana, from Cards on the Table.

ampman 17 Jan 10 at 4:14 p.m. GMT

Inspector Japp ?

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Jan 10 at 3:50 p.m. GMT

I have actually Nofret, but I didn't like it much.

Nofret 17 Jan 10 at 9:59 a.m. GMT

Ha ha, very funny, Tommy! You obviously haven't read Death Comes as the End (featuring Nofret)!

Good guess, Hercule, but not Norton.I think he preferred to be a figure in the shadows, rather than the spotlight.

HerculeJC 16 Jan 10 at 7:37 p.m. GMT

For Nofret:

For your character description: is it Stephen Nortron, from CURTAIN??

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Jan 10 at 4:47 p.m. GMT

I thought it would be got far sooner than it was as it is the last AC book I read and finished it about a week or 2 ago, I thought it was much better than people say it is.

Sorry Nofret is that your quote or are you talking about you?

Nofret 16 Jan 10 at 12:07 p.m. GMT

Thank you, Tommy.

I am a middle-aged professional man, not someone you'd normally notice, though I dream of being the centre of attention.  I have several, varied hobbies, but the one thing I pride myself on is that I never forget a face.

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Jan 10 at 1:28 p.m. GMT

Yes Nofret you are right, I can imagine Humfries or Miss Gorringe thinking it about her as she sita eating Muffins or seed cake.

Nofret 15 Jan 10 at 9:31 a.m. GMT

Lady Selina from At Bertram's Hotel?

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Jan 10 at 3:27 p.m. GMT

No sorry Ampman this lady doesn't appear in the books suggested so far.

ampman 14 Jan 10 at 2:35 p.m. GMT

Miss Murgatroyd from A Murder is Announced ?

Tommy_A_Jones 13 Jan 10 at 12:42 p.m. GMT

No Sorry HJC and Nofret, but HJC you are right, I didn't mean to give that clue.

Nofret 13 Jan 10 at 9:18 a.m. GMT

Carrie Louise Serracold from They do it with Mirrors?

HerculeJC 13 Jan 10 at 5:25 a.m. GMT

So this is an old woman from a MISS MARPLE STORY.

I'll hazard two guesses: the first is, probably, completely wrong (but imagine the description being incorrect, as regards the character):

Chlotilde Bradbury-Scott, from NEMESIS.

The other guess:

Aunt Effie Ramsbottom, from A POCKET FULL OF RYE.

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Jan 10 at 1:20 p.m. GMT

No but on the right lines.

ampman 12 Jan 10 at 8:07 a.m. GMT

Emily  Barton from The Moving Finger ?

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Jan 10 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

No sorry both wrong but both close. 

ampman 11 Jan 10 at 2:15 p.m. GMT

Is it Dora Bunn from A Murder is Announced ?

Nofret 10 Jan 10 at 7:01 p.m. GMT

Well, it can't be Miss Marple, she's far from innocent, wasn't it her cousin Raymond who said she had a mind like a sink?

Is it Mrs McGillicuddy from 4.50 from Paddington?

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Jan 10 at 1:54 p.m. GMT

No sorry that is wrong deBellefort

deBellefort 09 Jan 10 at 10:43 p.m. GMT

Is that Lavinia Pinkerton from Murder is Easy? I'm probably completely wrong, but I seem to remember her being described in a similar way...my memory is probably flawed though

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Jan 10 at 1:04 p.m. GMT

O.K. Here Goes; She's a Nice Old Lady,One of life's Innocents, She just sits and watches the World Go by,

Puffinjill 07 Jan 10 at 7:05 p.m. GMT

I'm thinking........ give me a minute..... brain's frozen....If anyone else can think of another one sooner, jump in, or I may be some time!!

Nofret 07 Jan 10 at 10:47 a.m. GMT

Well done, Puffinjill, that was obviously too easy! But what a lovely game for a grey and snowy day. Over to you!

Puffinjill 06 Jan 10 at 2:36 p.m. GMT

Could it be Hilda Lee from Hercules Poirot's Christmas, married to David Lee who can't forget the treatment of his beloved mother in his youth?

Nofret 05 Jan 10 at 11:26 a.m. GMT

Good guess, but no, Evelyn's marriage was never happy while Lucky was around.

HerculeJC 05 Jan 10 at 5:08 a.m. GMT

Let me guess:

Evelyn Hillingdon, from A CARIBBEAN MYSTERY.

Nofret 29 Dec 09 at 10:10 a.m. GMT

Wow! Thank you, Puffinjill! My first attempt too! Let's see if I can provide a sufficiently challenging clue:

I am no longer in my first youth, and could never have been described as beautiful. However, I am happily married, although I sometimes think my husband could be a stronger and happier man if he could forget the past.

Puffinjill 29 Dec 09 at 6:42 a.m. GMT

You're a star, Nofret! Yes, Arthur Jackson it is!!

Over to you for the next teaser...

Nofret 28 Dec 09 at 3:27 p.m. GMT

Aha! Is it Arthur Jackson from "A Caribbean Mystery"? He was Mr Rafiel's masseur, but had previously worked in pharmaceuticals, and guessed that Molly had been given drugs.

Puffinjill 28 Dec 09 at 2:31 p.m. GMT

You are sooooooo very,very close, ampman. Just try one more time and I think you will be there.

Hope you had a good Christmas and wishing you well in the New Year.

ampman 28 Dec 09 at 10:33 a.m. GMT

Is it Esther Walters from A Caribbean Mystery ?

Puffinjill 28 Dec 09 at 8:13 a.m. GMT

Shall I try one Tommy, then you can have a little longer to think about your next clue. I understand what you mean - easy to come up with ideas but much more difficult condensing that character into a couple of lines. I struggle too! Anyway, everyone can have a go at this one and then you can get us all guessing with one of yours.

I am employed by a very rich man who is very demanding and can be extremely difficult to please. However, I get to travel to some lovely places and meet new people. My previous profession was in a different field but, thankfully, the knowledge I gained from it has enabled me to assist a certain person to save anothers life.

Mmm. Bit obscure, maybe? Oh, well, give it a go and I'll think of some clues to help. I think we could all do with something to get our brains ticking over again after Christmas.

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Dec 09 at 12:57 p.m. GMT

As I have said I am no good at setting these and I can't think of one, so someone else can have a Go, I will try and think of how to do it next year so someone else can do it, I have ideas but don't know if I will be doing it right.

Puffinjill 24 Dec 09 at 7:49 a.m. GMT

Yes!! Well done Tommy, it IS the well meaning but utterly irritating Heather Badcock!

Over to you for the next one to tease us over the Christmas period!!

Tommy_A_Jones 23 Dec 09 at 4:18 p.m. GMT

Heather Babcock The Mirror Crack'd From Side To Side?

Puffinjill 22 Dec 09 at 6:23 a.m. GMT

No, not Dr Sheppard, HerculeJC. You all need to think 'victim' rather than 'murderer'!

HerculeJC 22 Dec 09 at 5:02 a.m. GMT

How about Doctor Richard Sheppard, in THE MURDER OF ROGER ACKROYD.

Puffinjill 21 Dec 09 at 8:23 a.m. GMT

No, not Vera Claythorne, ampman. Guess again.

I hope this clue isn't too vague as I struggled myself this morning to remember who it was!!

ampman 20 Dec 09 at 10:47 a.m. GMT

Vera Claythorne in And Then There Were None ?

Puffinjill 20 Dec 09 at 8:39 a.m. GMT

Blimey! OK, I'll try another one for you all.

I am someone who is friendly, outgoing, good at organising and always trying to help other people.I mean well and would never intentionally injure another person. However, a selfish act in the past might just be the death of me.

Up to my usual poor standard of clue setting, but give it a go.

ampman 19 Dec 09 at 6:57 p.m. GMT

You have got it in one Puffinjill. Full marks. It is Mary Cavendish.

Puffinjill 18 Dec 09 at 7:57 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Mary Cavendish from The Mysterious Affair at Styles?

Probably way out, but she did grow to love John as he seemed to lose interest in her.

ampman 18 Dec 09 at 7:21 a.m. GMT

Don't be put off by the spoiler notice, I don't know how that got there. Go on, have a guess please!

ampman 15 Dec 09 at 3:35 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

 I will try just one more if that is OK.

Men find me attractive because of my good looks and the fact that I am a good listener. I did not love my husband when I married him but I grew to love him when I thought that I might lose him.

ampman 12 Dec 09 at 7:54 p.m. GMT

Yes GKCFan is correct ! Thought this one would go on for ages.

HerculeJC 12 Dec 09 at 6:47 p.m. GMT

I still say it sounds just like something Ariadne Oliver would also say.

I'll have to re-read A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED.

So is GKCFan correct??

Puffinjill 12 Dec 09 at 7:30 a.m. GMT

I remember now! I think you are right GKCfan, as I knew I had heard it recently, having just listened to A Murder is Announced and Lord Edgware Dies and I got confused. It's a line that makes me smile too, though not being male, I couldn't possibly comment as to how true it is!!

GKCfan 11 Dec 09 at 7:54 a.m. GMT

I remember this line because it made me laugh when I first read it.  Belle Goedler in "A Murder is Announced."

ampman 11 Dec 09 at 7:23 a.m. GMT

Nope.

Think rich widow.

HerculeJC 11 Dec 09 at 3:52 a.m. GMT

I think it must be ARIADNE OLIVER.

Puffinjill 10 Dec 09 at 7:12 p.m. GMT

Was it Jane Wilkinson aka Lady Edgware in Lord Edgware Dies?

ampman 10 Dec 09 at 3:10 p.m. GMT

Here goes.

"I've always thought",she said,"it must be terribly dull to be a man".

Puffinjill 10 Dec 09 at 7:44 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Spot on, ampman! Well done! It is Mona Symmington from The Moving Finger. And, although I should never condone murder (heaven forbid!), I've hardly met a character who deserved it more!! Not a nice woman, but who am I to judge!

Right, over to you, ampman!

ampman 10 Dec 09 at 7:24 a.m. GMT

Mrs Symmington from The Moving Finger?

Puffinjill 09 Dec 09 at 7:40 a.m. GMT

No, it's not a character from a Poirot novel. Think Marple.

GKCfan 08 Dec 09 at 9:23 p.m. GMT

Laura Welman from "Sad Cypress?"

Puffinjill 08 Dec 09 at 6:56 p.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

Still wrong, I'm afraid!

I'm quite useless at giving clues but I'll have a go. This character ends up the victim, although it doesn't appear suspicious at first.

I very much doubt I have helped at all!

HerculeJC 08 Dec 09 at 2:53 p.m. GMT

We may need a hint, if this one is not correct.

I thought about THIRD GIRL: Norma Restarick and her father.

I had also thought about Marina Gregg in THE MIRROR CRACK'D, and Lady Boynto, from APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH.

Puffinjill 08 Dec 09 at 6:51 a.m. GMT

Nope. Keep going.

HerculeJC 08 Dec 09 at 5:56 a.m. GMT

The other stories I think about are

CROOKED HOUSE, with Josephine as the daughter, and

MRS MCGINTY'S DEAD, for Deidre's mother.

Puffinjill 06 Dec 09 at 11:45 a.m. GMT

No, I'm afraid not, HerculeJC.

HerculeJC 04 Dec 09 at 7:24 p.m. GMT

How about Cecilia Ackroyd, from THE MURDER OF ROGER ACKROYD.

Puffinjill 02 Dec 09 at 6:34 p.m. GMT

Try this one.

I am a martyr to my nerves and ill health and having SUCH a troublesome daughter just adds to my problems. I don't mean to be selfish, but her very presence seems to upset the household and prevents me from forgetting my past.

I expect you'll all guess that one in the blink of an eye.

HerculeJC 01 Dec 09 at 7:15 a.m. GMT

Now, "To you, Puff!!"

HerculeJC 01 Dec 09 at 7:06 a.m. GMT

Yes, Puff.   You caught that I was referring to one of the persons on the Taurus Express, "final destination Istanbul!!".   "Good job" (from one who left work about 3.5 hours ago).

It was Mary Debenham; she was noted as the one who noted how HOT her compartment was, as the Taurus Express was at the Aleppo Station.

Aleppo was where she saw M. Poirot for the first time, and her first thoughts of him (posted by me on other threads).

I, sort of, dsguised Mary's first thoughts about Poirot.

Puffinjill 01 Dec 09 at 6:14 a.m. GMT

Oh, blimey, my brain hurts. If it refers to a character on both of the journeys then it must be Mary Debenham or Colonel Arbuthnot.

Now get back to work.

HerculeJC 30 Nov 09 at 10:32 p.m. GMT

I'll make this one quick (am on a break at WORK, right now).

"Think through the story": which passengers pondered about their train accomodations during the two journeys noted.

Puffinjill 30 Nov 09 at 6:18 p.m. GMT

Seeing as this is the 'Guess The Character' game, I'm missing the bit that is really needed! So, right book, wrong person....can I just list the cast of characters?

HerculeJC 30 Nov 09 at 3:02 p.m. GMT

You are partially correct. 

It is from MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS.  And, yes, there was an odd assortment of passengers.

However, my character is not M. Poirot.

Puffinjill 30 Nov 09 at 7:18 a.m. GMT

Would it be a certain M. Poirot whilst travelling on the Orient Express? You will be hard pushed to find an odder assortment of characters than those in that train!

HerculeJC 30 Nov 09 at 6:10 a.m. GMT

HOORAY!!

Now let me try one more person:"It's so hot in here, while it is so bitter cold out there!!

"Now my thoughts are confirmed, funny as they are: One certainly encounters an odd assortment of persons during their lives!!".

GKCfan 30 Nov 09 at 5:18 a.m. GMT

Yes!  You are correct!

HerculeJC 30 Nov 09 at 3:42 a.m. GMT

Okay, then it must be Major Despard.  He wasin both CARDS ON THE TABLE and THE PALE HORSE

GKCfan 29 Nov 09 at 9:35 p.m. GMT

Nope, neither is correct.  However, the character in question does appear in one of the books you mention in your most recent guess.  Also, remember that the character is NOT a detective.

HerculeJC 29 Nov 09 at 7:37 p.m. GMT

My next guess will be Colonel Race: he appeared in THE MAN IN THE BROWN SUIT, CARDS ON THE TABLE, DEATH ON THE NILE, and SPARKLING CYANIDE.

The other character is Captain Arthur Hastings: he was in THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES, MURDER ON THE LINKS, THE BIG FOUR, THE ABC MURDERS, LORD EDGEWARE DIES, DUMB WITNESS, then after a long absence, CURTAIN.

GKCfan 29 Nov 09 at 7:11 p.m. GMT

I'm sorry, but neither guess is right.  Here's a hint: the "distinction" in question is the fact that this character appears in more than one Christie novels.

HerculeJC 29 Nov 09 at 8:27 a.m. GMT

I can think of characters who have been in financial 'rough-times'.

Two characters who have interesting "twists of fate", especially come to mind:

Michael Rogers, from ENDLESS NIGHT

and

Doctor Sheppard, from THE MURDER OF ROGER ACKROYD.

If these characters are not the correct ones, then a hint is needed.

GKCfan 28 Nov 09 at 6:58 p.m. GMT

Sorry, no to both.  Let me know if you want a hint.

HerculeJC 28 Nov 09 at 5:18 p.m. GMT

How about:

ANTHONY CADE, from The Secret of Chimneys

or

ANTHONY BROWN, from Sparking Cyanide

GKCfan 26 Nov 09 at 7:11 p.m. GMT

Sorry, but no.  If you want a hint, please let me know.

HerculeJC 26 Nov 09 at 3:58 p.m. GMT

How about James Bentley, from MRS MCGINTY'S DEAD?

GKCfan 25 Nov 09 at 7:39 a.m. GMT

O.K., here goes...  

I'm a man who keeps attracting the wrong kind of woman.  Not only that, but some people think that I'm a much worse person than I really am and put me in bad company.  Despite some rough patches in my past, everything worked out all right for me, and I've achieved a distinction that only a handful of Christie's non-detectives have achieved.

Puffinjill 25 Nov 09 at 6:59 a.m. GMT

What can I say, GKC? Any chance of remembering her name? Oh, well, never mind, you have guessed the right person. After all, in Three Act Tragedy, she was always being overlooked as she seemed such a negligable person. The name you are search for is Muriel Wills who wrote under the name of Anthony Astor. Well done you!

Over to you for the next one...

GKCfan 24 Nov 09 at 10:05 p.m. GMT

Could it be the female playwright in "Murder in Three Acts?"  I can't remember her name.

Puffinjill 24 Nov 09 at 6:47 p.m. GMT

Sorry, no! I had forgotten how many writers AC included in her books!

But you are heading the right way, thedoctor98, as you have guessed the right sex of the character!

thedoctor98 24 Nov 09 at 6:20 p.m. GMT

ariadne oliver?

Puffinjill 23 Nov 09 at 7:34 a.m. GMT

No, not him either!

GKCfan 22 Nov 09 at 7:26 p.m. GMT

Mark Easterbrook from The Pale Horse?

Puffinjill 22 Nov 09 at 6:57 p.m. GMT

No, my dear! It's not Mr Satterthwaite but I can see how it would apply to him, too.

Bundle_ 22 Nov 09 at 12:59 p.m. GMT

Mr. Sattherwaite?

Puffinjill 22 Nov 09 at 7:15 a.m. GMT

I think you are, thedoctor98!! Kept me in the dark for ages and I wouldn't have guessed the answer if it hadn't been for HerculeJC talking through the characters from the books so I think it was a joint effort, really!

My turn again now.

I am the sort of person who is easily overlooked, by my appearence masks a shrewd brain. Because I write for a living, I am observant and often see things others miss.

thedoctor98 21 Nov 09 at 7:37 p.m. GMT

well well well damn it all after months of guessing you finally got it well done puffinjill that has got to be the longest running guessing game ever i am the champion

Puffinjill 21 Nov 09 at 7:45 a.m. GMT

I know! Elizabeth Cole! Phew, I hope that's right!!!

HerculeJC 21 Nov 09 at 5:17 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

I think it must be from CURTAIN.  That was Poirot's final case, and Hastings returns to Styles Court, after a lengthy absence.  In fact it was about 40 years since he last appeared in a story (Dumb Witness).

I need to remember all the female characters from CURTAIN.

We have noted that is was neither Barbara Franklin, nor Judith Hastings.

Daisy Lutrell is an older woman: that eliminates her as our character.

Now, the question: who are the other female characters in CURTAIN.

For me it has been nearly four years since I read the story (was in a double-set with MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR).

I still think it is the woman whose relationship with Major Allerton was hinted to Hastings in such a way that he thought the Major was carrying on with Judith.

I guess I will have to check out CURTAIN, to see who the many characters are.

thedoctor98 19 Nov 09 at 6:38 p.m. GMT

it is hard to give a clue without giving  away the character but all i will say is that poirot and hastings were both in this book and it was quite a late book coming out come on people when i posted this question i thought you would get it sraight away not that youd be guessing over it a month or so after i posted it

HerculeJC 19 Nov 09 at 3:50 a.m. GMT

Nobody else has been trying to guess the answer.  Interesting.

Okay, other characters:

JANE WILKINSON, from Lord Edgeware Dies

CYNTHIA MURDOCK, from The Mysterious Affair At Styles

of

EVIE HOWARD, from The Mysterious Affair At Styles

This, also, is a long-shot: JUDITH HASTINGS, from Curtain

Puffinjill 11 Nov 09 at 1:44 p.m. GMT

Is this one of those that I will kick myself for not getting as the answer is actually blindingly obvious? I'm completely bambozled so far! Any chance of another clue?

thedoctor98 07 Nov 09 at 7:45 a.m. GMT

none of them are right but one of the stories is right but i need the name

HerculeJC 06 Nov 09 at 4:43 p.m. GMT

The other stories with Poirot and Hastings, that I recall, are:

LORD EDGEWARE DIES;

MURDER ON THE LINKS;

THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES;

and

CURTAIN

That leaves me thinking of Carlotta Adams, from LORD EDGEWARE DIES;

Mary Cavendish from THE MYSTERIOUS AFFAIR AT STYLES

Barbara Franklin from CURTAIN

I also think of 'Madame Marie', the neighbor in MURDER ON THE LINKS (it's been awhile since I read the book; trying to recall the name).

Finally, I am trying to remember:

1. Cinders' friend, from LINKS; and

2. The other tenant in CURTAIN (the single woman).

thedoctor98 05 Nov 09 at 8:03 p.m. GMT

no all wrong again im not sue if this clue will help but its a very famous poirot story very famous i think

HerculeJC 03 Nov 09 at 3:10 p.m. GMT

I recall that CINDERS, Hastings' wife, was younger than 30, so I'll pass on her.

THE ABC MURDERS, next, comes to mind:

My two guesses:

Thora Grey

or

Megan Barnard.

The others I thought of were the two sisters in DUMB WITNESS:

Theresa Arundell

and

Arabella Tanios

thedoctor98 02 Nov 09 at 12:35 p.m. GMT

No wrong again keep trying is there no one who can get this right i will give you a clue it was hastings who made this deduction. one more guess and if its wrong i will give a massive clue

HerculeJC 01 Nov 09 at 5:36 p.m. GMT

Okay, I thought of Conchita, as it was her eyes that alerted Poirot to her alias.

Now I am thinking of Countess Rossakoff, from THE BIG FOUR and THE LABOURS OF HERCULES.

thedoctor98 01 Nov 09 at 11:50 a.m. GMT

No wrong again keep trying i thought this one was easy just think carefully

HerculeJC 31 Oct 09 at 5:55 p.m. GMT

Let me try, again: Conchita Lopez, from HERCULE POIROT'S CHRISTMAS

thedoctor98 31 Oct 09 at 3:37 p.m. GMT

all of you are wrong think poirot

HerculeJC 31 Oct 09 at 5:02 a.m. GMT

My other guesses: Sorry if I am not allowed to post more than one:

1.  Ginger, from THE PALE HORSE;

2. Theresa Arundell, from DUMB WITNESS; or

3. Mary Dove, from A POCKET FULL OF RYE

HerculeJC 31 Oct 09 at 4:58 a.m. GMT

I'm probably "grasping at straws": How about Elinor Carlisle from SAD CYPRESS.

Puffinjill 30 Oct 09 at 6:52 p.m. GMT

Darn it.

thedoctor98 30 Oct 09 at 5:36 p.m. GMT

No it is not Mrs Lestrange from Murder at the Vicarage nice try though

Puffinjill 29 Oct 09 at 7 p.m. GMT

Could it be Mrs Lestrange from Murder at the Vicarage? I'm a bit unsure about the age but I do remember her lovely eyes. Must read it again soon!

But I'm probably way off...

thedoctor98 28 Oct 09 at 10:25 a.m. GMT

Can i do one?

She was a woman of between thirty and forty, slightly haggard, with a clear-cut profile and really very beautiful eyes. There was about her an air of reserve, more - of suspicion. 

HerculeJC 28 Oct 09 at 3:41 a.m. GMT

Anyway, I have done two of the last four "Character" guesses, so I will let someone else do the next challenge.

HerculeJC 28 Oct 09 at 3:41 a.m. GMT

Puff, I admit I knew the answer as I read ORDEAL BY INNOCENCE last August (was a good way to pass the time, after I agreed to take a much-later flight home, that day).

Puffinjill 27 Oct 09 at 6:26 a.m. GMT

See, told you! I can't set a really difficult clue for toffee!! But, well done HerculeJC, yes it is Arthur Calgary!! Over to you my friend!

HerculeJC 27 Oct 09 at 4:55 a.m. GMT

Doctor Arthur Calgary, from ORDEAL BY INNOCENCE.

Puffinjill 26 Oct 09 at 7:09 p.m. GMT

Unfortunately not, Tommy. Keep guessing!

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Oct 09 at 3:44 p.m. GMT

Nemesis?

Puffinjill 25 Oct 09 at 7:14 p.m. GMT

I've set one clue once before and I said before I posted that one that I was TERRIBLE at this sort of thing! I look at everyone elses clues and turn green with envy that I hadn't thought of them! So, I'm warning you all, the one I'm about to post is probably as pathetic as my last. But here goes...

I knew the journey I had to make would be difficult for me, but at least I thought it would bring happiness to those I had to see. Now I find my news has done the opposite, it has bought pain and suspicion to them. But justice must be done.

Right, there you go. Hope it's not too rubbish!!

Puffinjill 25 Oct 09 at 1:38 p.m. GMT

Heavens! My brain worked! Is it my turn now? Hang on, I'll have a think...

Adam_Scarlet 25 Oct 09 at 12:10 p.m. GMT

Puffinjill is correct! It's Mrs. Lorrimer. :)

HerculeJC 24 Oct 09 at 6:21 p.m. GMT

How about Emily Brent from AND THEN THERE WERE NONE?

Puffinjill 21 Oct 09 at 7:02 p.m. GMT

Would it be Mrs Lorrimer from Cards on the Table?

thedoctor98 21 Oct 09 at 6:33 p.m. GMT

Miss_Scarlet107

:D

I am shrewd and observant woman despite my failing health. I believed in old-fashioned morality and my passion for bridge is notorious.

Is it Lady Boynton from appointment with death

Adam_Scarlet 21 Oct 09 at 5:37 p.m. GMT

:D

I am shrewd and observant woman despite my failing health. I believed in old-fashioned morality and my passion for bridge is notorious.

asmikhushi 14 Oct 09 at 4:09 p.m. GMT

right amyas crale...ur chane to give 1 - miss scarlet107

HerculeJC 12 Oct 09 at 6:09 p.m. GMT

Sir Charles Cartwright from THREE ACT TRAGEDY??

Adam_Scarlet 11 Oct 09 at 3:11 p.m. GMT

Amyas Crale from Five Little Pigs?

asmikhushi 11 Oct 09 at 2:05 p.m. GMT

another...

here goes nothing

i have a talent which is my profession. i m hugely attract people but am myself attracted to them for a short while only. i prefer being with ppl i am close to

HerculeJC 05 Oct 09 at 3:56 a.m. GMT

Congratulations, Frndorfoe!!  You're correct.

It is Caroline Hubbard and Princess Dragomiroff, both from ORIENT EXPRESS.

Frndorfoe 04 Oct 09 at 9:21 p.m. GMT

The first one is Mrs. Hubbard and the second one is Princess Dragomiroff. They are both from Murder on the Orient Express.

HerculeJC 04 Oct 09 at 7:16 p.m. GMT

Let me try two other persons; after this I will take a break:

BOTH CHARACTERS ARE FROM THE SAME STORY

1. "Being a wealthy widow does have its advantages.  I enjoy traveling through Europe and Asia, thanks to many recommendations made by my daughter.  I enjoy chatting with people I meet about my daughter.

"I Just hope I'll be in time to sail back to America; this current delay I've encountered might cause me to miss my boat..."

and

2. "I was forced to leave my home Country, but I was fortunate that I had time to transfer my fortune to my home in Western Europe.

"I am thankful for the many friends and acquaintances I have made throughout the years, including many well-connected persons in Europe and America.

"Even when in limited surroundings I travel in style.  And everyone knows when I want to make my presence felt".

Puffinjill 04 Oct 09 at 6:45 p.m. GMT

Who's go now?

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Oct 09 at 4:25 p.m. GMT

I am just as bad, I am sure when I tried people were only being kind not guessing them straight away.

asmikhushi 04 Oct 09 at 1:17 p.m. GMT

well, i m bad at this...right!

Tommy_A_Jones 04 Oct 09 at 1:08 p.m. GMT

Jane Hellier from The Thirteen Problems

asmikhushi 04 Oct 09 at 12:52 p.m. GMT

lemme try one

i am a famous person and most people believe i am pretty dumb  but i am not as dumb as i seem to be. And though i m clever i do sometimes forget about what i had been saying and stumble

Puffinjill 25 Sep 09 at 6:23 p.m. GMT

Why didn't I get that!!!! My favorite too!!! Well done you!

Come on then, roll on the next one...

HerculeJC 25 Sep 09 at 5:32 p.m. GMT

Appointment With Death. Dr. King about Lady Boynton

Congratulations to m_hercule_poirot_2.  APPOINTMENT WITH DEATH is the correct answer.

I was hinting that the characters were from a Poirot story, set not in England (this time, in the Middle East).

My character was Doctor Sarah King, and her thoughts were about Lady Boynton, and her statement "I never forget anything!...".

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Sep 09 at 3:11 p.m. GMT

Murder On The Orient Express

m_hercule_poirot_2 25 Sep 09 at 7:08 a.m. GMT

Appointment With Death. Dr. King about Lady Boynton

HerculeJC 24 Sep 09 at 3:31 p.m. GMT

NO!! Not CARDS ON THE TABLE.

Hint: What is noted/hinted at for DEATH ON THE NILE??

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Sep 09 at 2:33 p.m. GMT

Card's On The Table?

HerculeJC 23 Sep 09 at 3:21 a.m. GMT

Tommy, you are now "heading in the right direction"/"getting closer".

Also, your post noted that one of my characters is the eventual victim. 

However, DEATH ON THE NILE is not the correct title.

Tommy_A_Jones 22 Sep 09 at 2:14 p.m. GMT

Death On The Nile? perhaps Jacqueline De Belfort would have said that after Linnet Ridgeway said something.

HerculeJC 21 Sep 09 at 5:22 p.m. GMT

NO, Tommy.

FIVE LITTLE PIGS is not correct, but you have noted that it is from a Hercule Poirot story.

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Sep 09 at 3:26 p.m. GMT

Five Little Pigs perhaps between Elsa and Angela?

Tommy_A_Jones 21 Sep 09 at 2:20 p.m. GMT

Did Elsa Greer say it to Angela in Five Little Pigs?

HerculeJC 20 Sep 09 at 10:14 p.m. GMT

No, not EVIL UNDER THE SUN

Tommy_A_Jones 20 Sep 09 at 3:20 p.m. GMT

Is the Book Evil Under The Sun? I think Miss Castle might have said something like that but I am not sure if she was talking about Christine Redfern or Arlena

HerculeJC 19 Sep 09 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

First off, the quote made by the character is that person's assessment of the other person, who is perceived differently by others.

I'll add other clues, later, if needed.

You're on the right track, Tommy (i.e. what do the two stories noted have in common, besides being written by Agatha).  However, is is not any of the characters from AFTER THE FUNERAL

Tommy_A_Jones 19 Sep 09 at 2:19 p.m. GMT

Did Rosamund say it about Helen in After The Funeral?

HerculeJC 17 Sep 09 at 11:40 p.m. GMT

Anyway, the characters are not from THE HOLLOW

Tommy_A_Jones 17 Sep 09 at 2:34 p.m. GMT

I might be wrong about her feelings

HerculeJC 16 Sep 09 at 11:53 p.m. GMT

I'll have to re-read "THE HOLLOW", to note Henrietta's feelings about Midge.

However, that guess is not correct.

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Sep 09 at 2:24 p.m. GMT

Henrietta Sevenake saying it about Midgehardcastle in 'The Hollow'

HerculeJC 16 Sep 09 at 3:59 a.m. GMT

Let me try my hand: guess two characters:

"What a pathetic little person she is!! But why did she make that comment to me??  It just doesn't seem to make any sense!"

Puffinjill 15 Sep 09 at 12:13 p.m. GMT

See, so damn easy!! Well done to you. I'll do better next time, promise! Over to you now...

Frndorfoe 14 Sep 09 at 3:10 p.m. GMT

Is it Maggie Buckley from Peril at End House?

Puffinjill 14 Sep 09 at 2:40 p.m. GMT

Hey! I got something right!! So, my turn,eh? I'm new to this so my effort will probably be pathetic but I'll have a go....

My cousin has always been good to me so I'm happy to go and be by her side if she needs me, but I do wish it was any other time but now. I'm so worried and have no-one but my cousin to confide in. At least she knows my secret and perhaps we can help each other. I wonder why she needs me?

See, told you, rubbish!!

Tommy_A_Jones 11 Sep 09 at 2:44 p.m. GMT

Well Done Puffinjill, Tuppence got Albert's assistance because he had on him a Cheap Thriller, I think it was called a Halfpenny Thriller, Well Done, Your turn now.

Puffinjill 11 Sep 09 at 1:01 p.m. GMT

Albert, T and T's young sidekick in "The Secret Adversary"?

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Sep 09 at 10:41 a.m. GMT

Close but not right.

HerculeJC 10 Sep 09 at 4:11 a.m. GMT

Tommy Beresford, and I would guess the book would be "N or M".

Tommy_A_Jones 09 Sep 09 at 12:19 p.m. GMT

No Bundle it isn't, This person does not appear in a Poirot story.

Bundle_ 08 Sep 09 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

Is it the little boy from Peril at End House, Tommy? I'm sorry I didn't provide a name -- but I can't remember it.

Tommy_A_Jones 08 Sep 09 at 11:10 a.m. GMT

No sorry It isn't him

GKCfan 07 Sep 09 at 4:19 p.m. GMT

Bill Eversleigh?

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Sep 09 at 12:16 p.m. GMT

No but I can see why you say him but it isn't him, Here is a Clue, this man appeared in more than 1 book.

HerculeJC 06 Sep 09 at 3:29 p.m. GMT

Sir Stafford Nye, in "Passenger to Frankfurt"??

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Sep 09 at 12:28 p.m. GMT

No Sorry HJC

HerculeJC 04 Sep 09 at 5:58 p.m. GMT

How about Edward Robinson, from the short story 'The Manhood of Edward Robinson', in "The Golden Ball and Other Stories"?

Tommy_A_Jones 28 Aug 09 at 2:13 p.m. GMT

I think he was but it isn't him

Bundle_ 27 Aug 09 at 3:46 p.m. GMT

Bobby Jones? The adaptation of Evans butchered the plot and character persona's so much that I can't remember if Bobby was looking forward to mystery solving or not.

Tommy_A_Jones 27 Aug 09 at 12:57 p.m. GMT

No, I forgot to say I am describing a Man

Bundle_ 26 Aug 09 at 7:37 p.m. GMT

Midge Hardcastle from The Hollow?

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Aug 09 at 2:14 p.m. GMT

I will have a go, I am young, Enthusiastic Dependable and can be relied apon, I just want to have Adventures like the Characters in the Books I read 

Bundle_ 26 Aug 09 at 2:10 p.m. GMT

Yes! It is Patricia Lane! Congrats, Winne!

SPOILERS For Hickory Dickory Dock

SPOILERS

SPOILERS

I said that she own a few pieces of value but otherwise is w/o much fortune because she owned a couple of pieces of expensive jewelry, a ring of which was stolen by Celia Austin. She is indeed a plain jane, but she is serious about her studies in politics. And she figured out who the culprit was but she let him lead her on because she loved him.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Aug 09 at 2:06 p.m. GMT

Patricia Lane

Bundle_ 26 Aug 09 at 2:03 p.m. GMT

No...

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Aug 09 at 2:02 p.m. GMT

Hello Bundle is it Mrs Hubbard?

Bundle_ 26 Aug 09 at 2 p.m. GMT

Hiya, Tommy!

You're getting closer, but no it's not her.

Tommy_A_Jones 26 Aug 09 at 1:59 p.m. GMT

Mrs Christina Nicholetis?

Bundle_ 26 Aug 09 at 1:51 p.m. GMT

No

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Aug 09 at 2:04 p.m. GMT

Genevieve

Bundle_ 25 Aug 09 at 1:50 p.m. GMT

I'm afriad not

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Aug 09 at 1:49 p.m. GMT

Elizabeth Johnston

Bundle_ 25 Aug 09 at 1:45 p.m. GMT

No

Tommy_A_Jones 25 Aug 09 at 1:11 p.m. GMT

Sally Finch

Bundle_ 24 Aug 09 at 4:05 p.m. GMT

No, but you're getting close.

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Aug 09 at 1:32 p.m. GMT

Celia Austin

Bundle_ 24 Aug 09 at 11:37 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

You must mean Valerie Hobhouse. You are on the right track but that's the wrong character, mon ami.

Tommy_A_Jones 24 Aug 09 at 10:44 a.m. GMT

This reply contains spoiler information. Show reply

I wont be guessing as 1 I haven't read and the other I read about 20 years ago and can't remember her name but I think I can remember something abvout her if that makes sense, either way I think it is the Murderer's Female Accomplice, Am I right Bundle?

Bundle_ 23 Aug 09 at 7:10 p.m. GMT

You are right it is either from One Two Buckle My Shoe or Hickory Dickory Dock. But Sally Finch is incorrect.

HerculeJC 23 Aug 09 at 5:11 p.m. GMT

Mole, that must mean either "One Two Buckle My Shoe" or "Hickory Dickory Dock".

I'm thinking of Sally, from "Hickory Dickory".

Bundle_ 23 Aug 09 at 1:42 p.m. GMT

Hi HJ! I changed my username from TheMole to Bundle, btw.

And sorry, it's not Mary Debenham.

I'll give a huge hint: This character comes from one of AC's rhyming title books.

HerculeJC 23 Aug 09 at 5:40 a.m. GMT

Can I try:

Mary Debenham, from ORIENT EXPRESS; not a 'knock-out', but a mover-doer.

Her love for Colonel Arbuthnot is apparent to all, especially to Poirot.

Tommy_A_Jones 16 Aug 09 at 1:37 p.m. GMT

Jane Grey (Death In The Clouds

TheMole 16 Aug 09 at 11:34 a.m. GMT

Nope.

Tommy_A_Jones 15 Aug 09 at 1:47 p.m. GMT

Valerie Bland (The Clocks)

TheMole 15 Aug 09 at 12:52 p.m. GMT

I am a quiet, well mannered young woman. I own a few 'pieces' of value but other than that I am without much fortune. And while I am what one would call a 'plain jane' I have brains to compensate for my looks. I am no fool except where my heart is concerned.

Here's the description again.

TheMole 15 Aug 09 at 12:51 p.m. GMT

I hope you enjoyed your vacation, HJ. Did you go someplace AC related?

All guesses are wrong. What kind of hint would everyone like?

HerculeJC 15 Aug 09 at 3:19 a.m. GMT

First off, was away on vacation for 3 weeks; got home on Monday night/Tuesday morning.

For the description: let me try NICK BUCKLEY from 'Peril At End House'.

Aurora 14 Aug 09 at 1:58 p.m. GMT

Christine Redfern

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Aug 09 at 1:25 p.m. GMT

Elinor Carlisle (Sad Cypress)

TheMole 14 Aug 09 at 1:19 p.m. GMT

Nay

Tommy_A_Jones 14 Aug 09 at 12:56 p.m. GMT

Anne Meredith (Cards On The Table)

TheMole 13 Aug 09 at 5:25 p.m. GMT

No

Tommy_A_Jones 12 Aug 09 at 1:37 p.m. GMT

Susan Banks (After The Funeral

TheMole 11 Aug 09 at 7:21 p.m. GMT

Nay. It's not from any character in The Hollow. I said that Gerda Christow was a good guess because I think in a few ways her personality is similar to the character I described.

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Aug 09 at 11:21 a.m. GMT

Veronica Cray?

TheMole 10 Aug 09 at 11:11 a.m. GMT

No.

But I think Henrietta felt attractive :0)

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Aug 09 at 10:55 a.m. GMT

I mean Henrietta Sevenake

Tommy_A_Jones 10 Aug 09 at 10:51 a.m. GMT

Henrietta Sevenace

TheMole 09 Aug 09 at 7:36 p.m. GMT

Good guess, but no.

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Aug 09 at 2:22 p.m. GMT

Gerda Christow

TheMole 07 Aug 09 at 1:56 p.m. GMT

Sorry, all guesses are wrong. A hint: The character is from a Poirot book.

marymck 07 Aug 09 at 1:26 p.m. GMT

Jackie from Death on the Nile? 

Tommy_A_Jones 07 Aug 09 at 1:03 p.m. GMT

Kay Strange (Towards Zero)

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Aug 09 at 2:25 p.m. GMT

I had forgotten the fortune bit of it but as for the looks some women wee themselves as plain Jane's when they aren't.

Frndorfoe 06 Aug 09 at 2:20 p.m. GMT

TheMole

May I go next?

I am a quiet, well mannered young woman. I own a few 'pieces' of value but other than that I am without much fortune. And while I am what one would call a 'plain jane' I have brains to compensate for my looks. I am no fool except where my heart is concerned.

WINNEBAGO1901

Linnett Ridgeway Doyle

Oh my WINNE! How could you call Linnett Ridgeway Doyle a 'plain jane'?And also she's definitely not "without much fortune". In the book Death on the Nile it says that "money and looks- It's too much! If a girl's as rich as that she's no right to be a good-looker as well. And she is a good-looker."

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Aug 09 at 2:19 p.m. GMT

Gladys Miss Marple's Maid

TheMole 06 Aug 09 at 2:17 p.m. GMT

No. Remember, mon ami, that this character is plain looking and w/o much fortune.

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Aug 09 at 2:08 p.m. GMT

Linnett Ridgeway Doyle

TheMole 06 Aug 09 at 1:58 p.m. GMT

Sorry.

Tommy_A_Jones 06 Aug 09 at 1:55 p.m. GMT

Molly Kendall

TheMole 05 Aug 09 at 4:31 p.m. GMT

I'm afraid not.

Tommy_A_Jones 05 Aug 09 at 1:35 p.m. GMT

Esther Walters

TheMole 03 Aug 09 at 2:57 p.m. GMT

May I go next?

I am a quiet, well mannered young woman. I own a few 'pieces' of value but other than that I am without much fortune. And while I am what one would call a 'plain jane' I have brains to compensate for my looks. I am no fool except where my heart is concerned.

Frndorfoe 02 Aug 09 at 6:20 p.m. GMT

Yes, MissScarlet107. You are right. It is Sir Charles Cartwright from Three Act Tragedy.

Adam_Scarlet 02 Aug 09 at 5:37 p.m. GMT

Sir Charles Cartwright?

Frndorfoe 02 Aug 09 at 2:09 p.m. GMT

I am a famous retired stage actor. I have knack for hosting rather lethal parties.

marymck 02 Aug 09 at 1:09 p.m. GMT

WTG Frndorfoe - your turn next!

Frndorfoe 02 Aug 09 at 12:36 p.m. GMT

Renisenb from Death Comes as the End.

marymck 02 Aug 09 at 8:41 a.m. GMT

I am a young mother, returning to my father's riverside house following the death of my husband.  I have come here for comfort, for a return to the familiar warmth of my family.  But something does not feel right and when my father returns from a business trip to the North, bringing with him a young and beautiful woman, my sense that something evil is lurking becomes tangible.

3rdGirl 02 Aug 09 at 6:18 a.m. GMT

Correct! Go Frndorfoe! Your turn to chose....

Frndorfoe 02 Aug 09 at 5:57 a.m. GMT

Amy Carnaby from The Nemean Lion, the 1st labour from The Labours of Hercules. She also appears in the 10th labour The Flock of Geryon. She is one of the most intresting characters from the Poirot mysteries. The Labours of Hercules is one of my all time favorite Agtaha Christie books.

3rdGirl 01 Aug 09 at 8:49 p.m. GMT

I am a companion to old ladies, and live with my ill sister and our Pekinese dog called Augustus. I have have a genius for criminality which I am trying to supress, and think my mind turns to crime because I long for excitement.

Adam_Scarlet 01 Aug 09 at 5:56 p.m. GMT

Correct! Your turn!

marymck 01 Aug 09 at 12:38 p.m. GMT

Jane Wilkinson