Good Christian people, pray attend Whilst I relate to you Concerning of a murder foul, It is, alas, too true. ‘Twas on the 17th day of June This murder it was done. They did complete the awful deed Before the rising sun. A helpless female, much beloved Was travelling to her home, Three boatmen seized her as she sat The water was her home. Here for the first time complete with extensive gazetteer and map is the true story of the murder of Christina Collins on the Trent & Mersey Canal at Rugeley in 1839, the story that inspired the creator of Inspector Morse, Colin Dexter, to write his award winning novel, The Wench is Dead. This much expanded edition is fully illustrated with an introduction by Colin Dexter. This guide is a must for all those with an interest in canals, history, murder and Inspector Morse as well as those who just want to explore some of the most beautiful locations in the England.