Episodes
| Episode | Title | First Broadcast | Repeated | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Reckless | 20080817 | 20080823 (R4) | After Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo, Philippe Bridau becomes a reckless gambler who steals from his mother to finance his obsession. She foolishly continues to idolise him, and it is left to his more dependable brother Joseph to rescue the family from destitution. Starring Thomas Arnold and narrated by Geoffrey Whitehead Dramatised in two parts by Chris Dolan. Madame Descoings - Phyllida Law Giroudeau - David Holt Mariette - Liz Sutherland |
| 02 | Destitute | 20080824 | 20080830 (R4) | Philippe's gambling has left his family destitute and his political activities have landed him in jail. His mother and brother seek financial help from a rich elderly relative, but a pretty young housekeeper and her lover have already laid plans to rob the old man of his money. Starring Thomas Arnold and narrated by Geoffrey Whitehead Conclusion of Honore de Balzac's entertaining tale of family rivalry and fortunes lost and won, set in 19th-century France. Dramatised by Chris Dolan. Flore Brazier - Lucy Paterson Jean-Jacques Rouget - Timothy Bateson Fario - Chris Pavlo Philippe's mother and brother seek financial help from a rich elderly relative. |