Although the language is that of the mid-Victorian era (occasional archaic vocabulary and long, formal sentences), this witty, detective-style story from Charles Dickens has a climax that would do Agatha Christie proud. The protagonist, a manager in an insurance office, leads us through the rather convoluted tale. With at least one murder and two more on the way, it is not until the end that readers learn that the real “detective” on the killer’s trail is not the protagonist, but one of his intended victims. Themes: first impressions (appearance/body language), deception, murder, justice, love, guilt.
Original Text / PDF / Audio (8,635 words)
Radio Play Version
This play is from the 1977 season of CBS Radio Mystery Theater, which broadcast from 1974 to 1982. In order to make the denouement more satisfying for listeners, the killer is brought to trial rather than being allowed to take the “easy” way out with poison, and the “hero” (Meltham) comes to a happier end than dying in misery from a broken heart. Listen and enjoy!