Strange Jest: a Miss Marple Short Story(1941)

Agatha Christie

Miss Marple is enjoying a party when she is accosted by a pair of lovebirds who think that a recently deceased uncle has buried their inheritance. The naïve pair expect her to instantaneously summon forth the location of the illusive treasure.

Our careful observer of human nature knows that an examination of the scene is needed. Invited to Ansteys, the couple's ransacked family seat, Miss Marple ensconces herself in a household that has perhaps been too thoroughly investigated. She regales its members with what appear to be meaningless, infuriating anecdotes. Little do the others know their importance and where they will lead!

Librarian's note: this entry relates to the short story, Strange Jest. Collections and the other stories by the author are located elsewhere on Goodreads. The Miss Marple series includes twelve novels and 20 short stories. Entries for each of the short stories can be found by searching Goodreads for: a Miss Marple Short Story.