To paraphrase that well-filled-out fellow, "It's easy to get people into jail, much harder to keep them out." What a delight! The inimitable wry humor and intelligence of Rumpole ages well. Brits place real people, with shapes, wrinkles, character, and rumples in front of the camera. So get through the first, slow-moving episode, and then settle down for a delicious experience with the irascible Rumpole. With each successive story, the narrative develops and thickens like Rumpole's brown sauce, while picture and sound quality improves. John Mortimer's introductions are inimitable, though one may take exception to the ghoulish glee when he recounts blood-stains in "Rumpole and the Heavy Brigade," Disk 2; this doesn't detract from the overall excellence. Even the minefields of race and culture conflict are elegantly handled, showing the presumptuousness of assuming all minorities share the same beliefs; deftly done! You'd better have plenty of victuals on hand; the Brain of Rumpole requires much sustenance to maintain girth and mirth and insight. Suggestible viewers will hunger unless proper precautions are taken, with assorted cheeses. You're in for a treat. Enjoy!