SOLEMN HIGH MURDER

Rev. Simon Bede (this side of venerable -- at one point he beds a compatible matron), British aide to Canterbury, is given an extensive tour of handsome St. Jude's (Episcopal) in Greenwich Village. Fortunate, since the peculiar position of a lectern has something to do with the murder of Father Owsley, the rector. A rambling business, but those drawn to puzzles involving a lapse in the apse will be happy to know that the liturgy is traditional, the brandy good and the procession of dues and characters is scenic, if a bit sloppy.