大象传媒

Elizabeth Barrett Browning's constant companion Flush has been stolen by a gang of London dog snatchers.

They're holding their canine victims to ransom - to exact a fearful retribution if the price is not paid.

Flush finds himself imprisoned in dreadful conditions in Whitechapel, while Miss Barrett becomes increasingly anxious in Wimpole Street.

Her father tries to prevent her securing Flush's return, and even dear Mr Browning advises her against giving in to blackmail.

So she leaves her sickroom to take matters into her own hands...

Virginia Woolf's biography of Elizabeth Barrett Browning's devoted spaniel, Flush.

Read by Jenny Coverack

Abridged and produced by Sara Davies

First broadcast on 大象传媒 Radio 4 in February 2011.