New York correspondent and Xenaphile Dan Scapperotti provides this issue's look behind-the-scenes at the making of the show, including an exclusive interview with New Zealand star Lucy Lawless.

A crowd of Arabs, Zeid's men, weather-bound here on their way to Feisal, ran out when they heard her trumpeting approach, and shouted with joy at so distinguished an entry into the village.

The Rat never answered, if indeed he heard. Rapt, transported, trembling, he was possessed in all his senses by this new divine thing that caught up his helpless soul and swung and dandled it, a powerless but happy infant in a strong sustaining grasp.

April 1, 1828, Walter Scott, letter to Robert Surtees My daughter is not quite so well (thanks to balls and racketings), and I think visiting will suit us better on our return, as the weather will be more favourable.