First published in book form in 1947, The Labours of Hercules comprises an even dozen mysteries Starring Christie's most popular sleuth, the ever-dignified hercule poirot. The introductory chapter of the collection sets ...First published in book form in 1947, The Labours of Hercules comprises an even dozen mysteries Starring Christie's most popular sleuth, the ever-dignified hercule poirot. The introductory chapter of the collection sets up the rest of the book. At a dinner party, another guest compares the labors of poirot to those of hercules, and the little belgian is not amused.