Episode 2 sees the first series really finding its feet, with a tasty mixture of the ‘chase’ for antiques and action both in the auctioneers and on the water (again). There are no spoilers just some observations and highlights of characters and tropes which reappear through later stories.

Incidentally, I was gifted an omnibus (printed 1988) containing three of the novels from Jonathan Gash which were adapted for the series – the Firefly Cage here originally named the Firefly Gadroon. A Gadroon (yes, I had to google it) is a decorative motif used in metal or wood, which the production team made more accessible. 

It’s also striking how much the language and Lovejoy’s behaviour are toned down from the books when they reach the screen. Lovejoy’s use of terms like ‘bint’ and constant hunt for a leg-over feel a remnant of the Carry On/On the Buses school of British humour which even by 1986 was past its sell-by date. 

Instead, Ian McShane brings a charm and ability to laugh at himself which is used to full effect in the asides to camera, and even physical comedy through his battles with various ailing cars – this time it’s the turn of an iconic yellow Volvo. Even when committing low-level fraud and handling stolen goods, you find yourself rooting for the (anti) hero, who is still very young looking and clean cut at this point – the only mullet on display being Eric’s. 

The action moves from the auction house to London in a number of locations, but centred on Lovejoy’s friend’s houseboat moored off Cheyne Walk in Chelsea. This jetty is still recognisable and well-used as a premium mooring, although the lovely boat itself is long gone and the South Bank skyline now thoroughly modernised with flats. 

He is followed in this quest to uncover the true value of a rare item by several pursuers, one of which seems to be a roving tax inspector with powers to tailgate Lovejoy and also have lunch with him! This seems weird to us now in the world of call centres and long waits, but back then District Tax Inspectors would still be out and about, checking businesses against their filings and using their judgment to make deals, rather like the role of bank managers. 

There are a couple of guest stars well-known on the British TV and stage circuit (like the 6 degrees of Kevin Bacon game, there is always a Doctor Who connection somewhere). Oliver Cotton has subsequently appeared in a host of historical dramas and made the jump to Hollywood supporting actor, while Stewart Harwood (Gandhi to EastEnders) carries off a bravura performance as a convincingly unhinged convict released from prison. 

The plot is complex and has a few holes but nothing to spoil the enjoyment, while setting up and deepening a lot of the relationships (Janey, Tinker) which are such a big part of Lovejoy’s life. There is also a fab scene with Eric being disturbed in the middle of a sweaty, Dirty Dancing-inspired (the film came out then) solo grind to his favourite heavy rock, which I think sounded like Meatloaf, but as ever am happy to be corrected! All in all, a top episode so early in the show’s run and highly recommended.