Great Agatha Christie Couple: The Tollivers

In Poirot's "Problem at Sea," the murder takes place on a ship containing several passengers. Among them are the Tollivers. 

The Tollivers are a rather insular British couple who are taking a vacation "abroad." When Poirot innocently suggests trying the local cuisine, they are shocked but game. 

They are a delightful couple. They are rather guileless. The audience learns their names when they introduce themselves to the unpleasant soon-to-be-victim. "I'm Mrs. Tolliver," says the wife. "I'm Mr. Tolliver," says the husband. 

"What a clever arrangement," the victim-to-be responds snidely. 

A few shots later, we see Mr. Tolliver carefully arranging a shawl around Mrs. Tolliver's shoulders. It turns out they have two children: a boy and a girl. Don't worry: they aren't awful parents! They clearly belong to that strata of British society that can leave their children to governesses and tutors and boarding houses while they travel abroad yet still adore them. 

They go about together. They react with compassion and good humor to various events. Mrs. Tolliver looks after the elderly, confused general. They are decent and friendly and obviously enjoy each other's company. 

Wonderful couple!

The Tollivers are played by Caroline John and Jeffrey Beavers.