Rumpole's Last Case

Reading Rumpole stories is one of the most enjoyable things that I've ever done. And this book is no different. It contains seven stories about the loveable old curmudgeon and his dealings down at the Old Bailey. It's sometimes hard to remember just how bright old Rumpole is, but these stories outlined that very clearly. The story "Rumpole and the Official Secret" really points this out when Rumpole runs up against someone who works in the defense department and who is giving secrets to the press. The snitch tries to turn attention away from himself, but Rumpole sees right through it. But my favourite story was "Rumpole and the Judge's Elbow". I must admit that I laughed out loud repeatedly when I read this wonderful tale. You need to read these tales too. They are incredibly funny and warm, and you too will learn to love Rumpole.

Despite the title, this isn't so very far along in the series and in fact features the introduction of the very politically correct "Ms. Liz Probert." The cases are the usual set, and Rumpole faces his usual trials and tribulations, most notably from a new member of chambers who wants to make everything much more efficient. The eponymous tale is one we've seen dramatized, where Rumpole has great success betting on a "four-horse accumulator," tells a judge exactly what he thinks of him, and is (of course) frustrated when his go-between leaves the country with his winnings.Entertaining, as always.

Rumpole has an assortment of foes in this collection of 7 stories: Judge Bullingham, his Head of Chambers Sam Ballard, dishonest prosecution witnesses, police officers, prosecuting barristers, and even the barrister defending his client's co-defendant in a case of armed robbery where a bank guard was wounded. No wonder he thinks of winning a fortune betting on horse races and moving to Spain in the last story, "Rumpole's Last Case". You should enjoy reading this book to find out how many cases Rumpole wins and if he really retires.