This is because the programmes have much in common, even though they are set on different continents and in different centuries. There is in each setting the strong single female, pillar of the community, with her careful use of words, her considerate adherence to etiquette and the desire to do what is right in every situation. Dorcas Lane and Mma Ramotswe would agree on many things, but, having said that, a small town probably wouldn’t be big enough for both of them.