In an annexe of the New York Public Library, translator Peter Constantine, is researching in the archives, looking for works by Russian writers. Suddenly he comes across a forgotten short story written by the young Anton Chekhov.

Chekhov's surreal tale is read by Rupert Graves.

'This fascinating and beautifully structured programme...'
- Susan Jeffreys, The Mail On Sunday.

'A beautifully produced piece of radio...what made this such an outstanding programme was not the drama of the discovery but the evocation of the library's atmosphere and history.'
- Elisabeth Mahoney, The Guardian.

'Checkhov as we really see him, in surreal mode imagining pink jelly pouring into his room through all the cracks and little people riding tiny horses with ducks' heads.'
Sue Arnold, The Observer.

This programme was scheduled for broadcast November 21st 2002.