4. In the Balance

Penelope Wilton and Lyndsey Marshal star in this high Victorian tale of a woman who runs her own bank.

Grieving for his young wife, Edward Vernon can no longer resist secret speculation with the assets of the bank.

When the market crashes and his scheme is discovered, he offers to run away with his cousin Hester, rather than face their ruin.

Margaret Oliphant's novel first published in 1883.

Dramatised by Kate Clanchy & Zena Forster.

Margaret Oliphant .... Penelope Wilton
Hester Vernon .... Lyndsey Marshal
Edward Vernon .... Joseph Kloska
Mr Rule .... Philip Jackson
Miss Halifax .... Stephanie Racine
Miss Letitia .... Liza Sadovy & Sarah Thom
Clerk .... Adam Nagaitis
Clerk .... Patrick Brennan
Despatch Rider .... Joe Sims
Old Merridew .... Robert Blythe

Director: Jonquil Panting

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2014.