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.

Narrator ...... Geoffrey Whitehead
Philippe Bridau ...... Thomas Arnold
Joseph Bridau ...... Mathew Pidgeon
Agathe Bridau ...... Briony McRoberts
Flore Brazier ...... Lucy Paterson
Jean-Jacques Rouget ...... Timothy Bateson
Desroches ...... Jon Glover
Monsieur Hochon ...... Christian Rodska
Madame Hochon ...... Colette O'Neil
Max Gilet ...... Alan Cox
Baruch ...... Nyasha Hatendi
Fario ...... Chris Pavlo

Directed at BBC Glasgow by Bruce Young.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in August 2008. Show less