53-01-05 The Mystery Of Edwin

Summary

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Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: 53-01-05 The Mystery Of Edwin Drood (Part 1)

Date: November 28, 2025
Main Theme:
This episode features an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ unfinished novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, as presented on the classic radio drama series, Suspense. The story intertwines jealousy, unrequited love, and murder in the cloistered confines of an English town—a literary mystery left unsolved by Dickens himself.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Highlights

Introduction and Setting the Atmosphere

• [02:06] The radio play opens on a somber note with John Jasper, music teacher and uncle to Edwin Drood, who confides his emotional turmoil and sense of impending doom:

  “This is the last night I have to live. And I will set down the naked truth without disguise.”
  — John Jasper (02:16)

• Jasper’s narration immerses the listener in the pensive, oppressive mood of Cloisterham College, setting the psychological groundwork for the story's suspense.

Relationships and Foreshadowing

• Jasper’s Hidden Turmoil
  Jasper reveals his hatred for the seemingly tranquil life in Cloisterham, contradicting his admired role:

  “You’re wrong, Edwin. I hate it. The plot. I hate it.”
  — John Jasper to Edwin Drood (05:15)

• Edwin Drood’s Return
  The reunion between Jasper and Edwin is friendly but shrouded in unease, with Edwin sensing Jasper’s weariness.
• The Toast to Rosa
  Celebration is tinged with unease as Edwin shifts the focus to his fiancée, Rosa, prompting an inner crisis for Jasper:

  “As we stood there... I began to realize why those words about the wicked man had come to me just before his return. It has been a warning. A warning that might have already come too late.”
  — Jasper (05:43)

Rosa’s Confession

• [07:06–08:11] Rosa candidly tells Jasper that she will marry Edwin out of obligation, not love:

  “I’m going to marry Edwin despite the fact that I do not love him.”
  — Rosa (07:41) “I do love another.”
  — Rosa, under Jasper’s pressure (08:11)

• Jasper’s Disquiet
  Jasper’s obsession with Rosa deepens, setting up a classic triangle marked by guilt, passion, and secrecy.

The Rivalry: Edwin Drood vs. Neville Landless

• [08:59–10:13] Tensions escalate at a social gathering. Neville Landless, a new arrival from Ceylon, admires Rosa, sparking jealousy in Edwin and a near-duel:

  “It seemed to me that you were taking the young lady... for granted.”
  — Neville Landless to Edwin (09:37) “You take too much upon yourself, sir. In my part of the world, you will be called to account...”
  — Neville Landless (10:04)

Rosa’s Distress and the Fate of Edwin

• [11:36] Rosa breaks down at the piano, her discomfort reflecting the intense emotional currents between the characters.

  “Oh, no. I can’t bear it. I can’t bear it. Take me away. Please take me away.”
  — Rosa (11:36)

• Jasper’s Resolve
  Jasper’s inner monologue signals his descent:

  “It was then the decision was made. It was then I knew that the end result was as fixed in time as the inexorable approach of death. In this instance, the death of Edwin Drood.”
  — Jasper (11:50)

The Crypt and Quicklime

• [16:19–18:15] Jasper’s late-night encounter with Durdles, the stonemason, introduces grim possibilities for disposing of a body:

  “Lime, that’s what. Quick enough to eat your bones and your boots with a little handy stirring... Plenty of room in them for a hundred more bodies if need be.”
  — Durdles (16:24–18:01)

Escalation: Jasper Sows Suspicion

• [19:01–20:41] An uncomfortable nightcap between Jasper, Edwin, and Neville exposes their differences more bitterly:

  “Because they might have made him more sensible of good fortune. That is not the result of his own merit.”
  — Neville Landless (20:59)

• Dramatic Confrontation
  The argument ends in threats:

  “I warn you, Drood, I’ll cut you down someday for this. I swear it.”
  — Neville Landless (21:42)

Jasper Manipulates Dean Chris Barkle

• [22:24–23:32] Jasper plants suspicion in Dean Chris Barkle’s mind, making Neville the prime suspect for any harm that may befall Edwin.

  “I think, sir, that you have in your charge a most dangerous man. One who might well attempt to carry out his threat against Edwin’s life.”
  — Jasper (23:05)

The Disappearance of Edwin Drood

• [24:54–26:00] A renewed camaraderie on Christmas Eve between Edwin and Neville leads the two young men (with Jasper’s encouragement) out into the storm to see the river:

  “There is little I can tell you the night that followed. For there is little that I remember clearly.”
  — Jasper (26:00) “But as I sat there in that organ lot in the dim light of Christmas morn, there was one thing I did know. Edwin Drood would never be seen again.”
  — Jasper (26:00–27:56)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with Timestamps)

• “This is the last night I have to live...” John Jasper opens the narrative with a foreboding confession. (02:16)
• “You’re wrong, Edwin. I hate it. The plot. I hate it.” Jasper’s hidden resentment of his life in Cloisterham. (05:15)
• “I’m going to marry Edwin despite the fact that I do not love him.” Rosa’s candor unsettles Jasper. (07:41)
• “You take too much upon yourself, sir. In my part of the world, you will be called to account...” Rivalry erupts between Neville and Edwin. (10:04)
• “It was then I knew... the end result was as fixed in time as the inexorable approach of death. In this instance, the death of Edwin Drood.” Jasper’s chilling realization. (11:50)
• “Lime, that’s what. Quick enough to eat your bones and your boots...” Durdles discusses the macabre uses of quicklime in the crypts. (16:24)
• “I think, sir, that you have in your charge a most dangerous man.” Jasper cunningly redirects suspicion. (23:05)
• “Edwin Drood would never be seen again.” The story’s cliffhanger ending for Part 1. (27:56)

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Important Timestamps for Segments

| Timestamp | Segment | |------------|----------------------------------------------| | 02:06 | Drama begins; Jasper’s confessional | | 05:15 | Jasper admits his true feelings about Cloisterham | | 07:41 | Rosa’s confession to Jasper | | 08:59 | Neville and Edwin’s first conflict | | 11:36 | Rosa’s breakdown at the piano | | 16:19 | Jasper’s conversation with Durdles in the crypt | | 19:01 | Nightcap with Neville and Edwin – tensions rise | | 21:42 | Threat from Neville to Edwin | | 22:24 | Jasper manipulates Dean Chris Barkle | | 24:54 | Christmas Eve reconciliation and river walk | | 26:00–27:56| Edwin’s disappearance & Jasper’s ambiguous memory |

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Tone and Style

The episode maintains the brooding, suspenseful tone characteristic of both Dickensian and radio noir style storytelling. The adaptation uses first-person narrative (Jasper), historical dialogue, and atmospheric sound design to evoke unease and psychological intrigue.

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Conclusion

The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Part 1) artfully sets the stage for Dickens’ famous unsolved mystery by immersing listeners in jealousy, unfulfilled love, and the ominous shadow of murder. With its web of shifting suspicions and emotional intensity, the episode leaves listeners eager for the resolution promised in Part 2, while honoring the spirit of classic Golden Age radio drama.

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Transcript

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Tonight, autolife presents part one of the most famous of all literary puzzles. Charles Dickens unfinished novel, the Mystery of Edwin drood. Our star, Mr. Herbert Marsh.

[Harlow Wilcox]

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[Narrator]

And now, Autolite presents Charles Dickens the Mystery of Edwin Drud. Starring Mr. Herbert Marshall. Hoping once again to keep you in.

[John Jasper]

Suspense, This is the last night I have to live. And I will set down the naked truth without disguise. I was never a brave man. But the task comes without much difficulty. I can speak of myself as if I had already passed from the world. For while I write, this grave is digging. And my name is inscribed in the black book of death. It was in the organ loft of the assembly hall at Troysterham College where I first began to learn how a man's mind can become a thing of horrible wonder. A part, a writhing, tormented thing beyond his poor power to control. I'd gone there, as I so often did, for the peace and quiet, for the song of birds, the scents from gardens and woods that joined with me and my music. And it Was there suddenly, without warning, that my mind filled with those words? Words long forgotten, only half learned at best. Somewhere in the past. When the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness, he shall save his soul alive. The wicked man? What has that to do with me? With John Jasper? Simple instructor in music, Jack. And why should I be filled with a strange sense of guilt?

[Rosa]

Are you in there, Jack?

[John Jasper]

The wicked man. Me?

[Dean Chris Barkle]

The wicked man?

[Rosa]

Jack, Are you in the organ? Lord Jack.

[John Jasper]

Who's that?

[Rosa]

It's I, Jack.

[Edwin Drood]

Your nephew, Edwin Drood. Edwin?

[Rosa]

I'm out here in the assembly hall.

[John Jasper]

Edwin. Edwin, my boy.

[Edwin Drood]

Jack. Jack. It's good to see you again.

[John Jasper]

Let me see what the past three months have done for you. I can't say they've done you a bit of harm.

[Edwin Drood]

No reason why they should. But tell me of yourself. You look a little tired.

[John Jasper]

Tired? Nonsense. Never felt that in my life.

[Edwin Drood]

Not worried about something, are you? Some strain you're under, perhaps, in this.

[John Jasper]

Sleepy old cottage town. Here, come into my office. We're wasting all this time and talk. I've been saving a special welcome for you, my boy. Sit down and rest your weary bones while I make it ready.

[Edwin Drood]

Oh, Jack, Jack. I'm truly home again. I can see that now. No wonder you love it here at Toystrom.

[John Jasper]

Is that what you think, Edwin?

[Edwin Drood]

Who could think otherwise, looking at you? Your respect, your talent for teaching music admired and looked up to. You'd be duty bound to love it.

[John Jasper]

You're wrong, Edwin. I hate it. The plot. I hate it.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Jack.

[Edwin Drood]

I'd never dreamed.

[John Jasper]

Well. No, no. Let there be an end to such talk, Edwin. We've delayed our toast much too long. As it turns to your future, Edwin.

[Edwin Drood]

No, Jack. Hold on. I'll not make that the first toast upon my return.

[John Jasper]

Oh, why not?

[Edwin Drood]

There's a much better one to drink to on this day of all days. To my future wife, Rosa.

[John Jasper]

Of course, Edwin. To Rosa. As we stood there, Edwin and I greeting to her, to Rosa, I began to realize why those words about the wicked man had come to me just before his return. It has been a warning. A warning that might have already come too late.

[Rosa (alternate)]

Good evening. Oh, it's Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

Good evening, Rosa. Have I startled you?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Why. Why, no, Mr. Jasper. It was only that I.

[John Jasper]

You were expecting someone else?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Well, Edwin said that he might get here early.

[John Jasper]

I'm sorry I disappointed you then.

[Rosa (alternate)]

It isn't that, really. I'm being quite rude, aren't I? Please, come in.

[John Jasper]

Thank you, my dear. You look most charming, Rosa. I'd swear that gown Was purchased in London expressly for your party tonight.

[Rosa (alternate)]

You surprise me, Mr. Jasper. I didn't know you were so observant. Concerning women.

[John Jasper]

Concerning women? Rosa or you?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Why me? I'm only one of your music students.

[John Jasper]

No, no, you're a good deal more than that to me, Rosa.

[Rosa (alternate)]

I'll open the parlor. We can wait there for the other guests. You said I was a good deal more to you than just a music student. What did you mean?

[John Jasper]

Edwin's my nephew. You're his betrothed. Surely the love I bear for him extends to you also.

[Rosa (alternate)]

Oh, I hadn't thought of your feelings toward me in just that way.

[John Jasper]

Had you thought of them?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Then allow me to be frank, Mr. Jasper. I'm going to marry Edwin despite the fact that I do not love him.

[John Jasper]

You do not?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Oh, as a brother, perhaps. He's a very dear friend, but not as one should love a husband.

[John Jasper]

Then why marry him, Rosa?

[Rosa (alternate)]

Because I couldn't bear to see him hurt. Because I promised both my parents and his that we would marry.

[John Jasper]

There's nothing that can change your mind?

[Rosa (alternate)]

No, Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

Not even if you loved another?

[Rosa (alternate)]

I do love another. The other guests, Rosa. Excuse me, please. I must let them in.

[John Jasper]

I remember little concerning the party that followed, being too occupied with my own thoughts. But two incidents do stand out of foreshadowing events to come. The first, the conversation between Dean Chris Barkle and his protege, Neville Landless. A strange and intense young man, but newly arrived from Ceylon.

[Finance Announcer]

My dear.

[Neville Landless]

She's a beautiful girl, Dean. One of the most beautiful it has ever been my fortune to meet.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

It might be best for you to curb your admiration, Neville Rose is already.

[Neville Landless]

Spoken for in Ceylon. That is not always a reason.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

I need hardly remind you, my boy, that this is Cloisterham in England. I warrant her fiance would not take too kindly to your attitude.

[Neville Landless]

Fiance?

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Young Edwin Drood.

[John Jasper]

Ah, yes.

[Neville Landless]

I now understand his air of proprietorship. Obviously, he's not one who appreciates his good fortune.

[Edwin Drood]

May I ask, Mr. Landis, the exact meaning of your remark concerning me and Rosa?

[John Jasper]

Edwin, really, I can't find. Mr. Drood.

[Neville Landless]

It seemed to me that you were taking the young lady in question rather for granted. I merely commented on it.

[Edwin Drood]

A manner of comment that hardly comes under the heading of civility in England, Mr. Lamberth. Though perhaps your somewhat heathen background may accomplish.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Come now, gentlemen. This is hardly a place.

[Harlow Wilcox]

Nor does it be very civil for.

[Neville Landless]

You to comment so upon a stranger here.

[Harlow Wilcox]

One who has not had your so.

[Neville Landless]

Called advantages in upbringing.

[Edwin Drood]

Perhaps the best civility is to mind our own business. If you will set me that example, I promise to follow it.

[Neville Landless]

You take too much upon yourself, sir. In my part of the world. You will be called to account for it.

[Edwin Drood]

By whom, for instance? Mr. Francis?

[Neville Landless]

By me, sir, at your earliest convenience.

[John Jasper]

Gentlemen, gentlemen, please. Edwin. Edwin. Let's have no more of this high words between the two of you. I don't like it, my boy.

[Edwin Drood]

Nor do I care for certain comments made in my presence here.

[John Jasper]

Jack, this is hardly a matter of moments. We are all hosts here to Mr. Landless. A stranger, newly arrived, who should respect the obligations of hospitality.

[Narrator]

Shall it be over then?

[Edwin Drood]

So far as I'm concerned, Jack. There's no anger left, Mr. Landless.

[Neville Landless]

None, Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

So be it then. The incident is over. When it became time for Rosa to play, I took my place at the piano beside her in order to turn the pages of the music. I stood there watching, watching her hands caressing the cheese like two white tender doves. Seeing her lips pursed tenderly in concentration, the curve, her soft cheek. Her eyes intent upon her music, yet finding moments free to glance up into mine. A tide of emotion welled up within me as I watched. And then I saw it begin to overtake her too. It was evident in the trembling of her hands, the color draining from her face, her quickening breath.

[Rosa (alternate)]

Oh, no. I can't bear it. I can't bear it.

[Rosa]

Take me away. Please take me away.

[John Jasper]

It was then the decision was made. It was then I knew that the end result was as fixed in time as the inexorable approach of death. In this instance, the death of Edwin Crude.

[Narrator]

Autolite is bringing you Mr. Herbert Marshall in Charles Dickens the Mystery of Edwin Drood. Tonight's presentation in radio's outstanding theater of thrills suspense.

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[Neville Landless]

Hello.

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[Narrator]

And now, Auto Light brings back to our Hollywood soundstage, Mr. Herbert Marshall in Elliot Lewis's production of the Mystery of Edwin Drood. A tale well calculated. To keep you in suspense.

[John Jasper]

I have said that a man's mind can become a thing of horrible wonder apart so it must have been with mine that night. For I know now that the plan to complete the perfect plan was born the very moment that Edwin Drood led Rosa from the room. Oh, the poor girl.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

She's quite evidently overwrought. Yes, quite overwrought.

[Neville Landless]

Little wonder with the strain she's had to bear. It can hardly be conducive to one's nerves when a fiance becomes proprietary and overbearing.

[John Jasper]

It would appear that your earlier differences would have been drood still rankle, Mr. Landless?

[Neville Landless]

I believe I have my anger well under control, Mr. Jasper. The same can hardly be said for the circumstances that provoke.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Oh, come now, Neville. It is hardly becoming to maintain such a disagreeable attitude.

[John Jasper]

Hardly becoming a health, but a natural reaction and one that can be as naturally overcome.

[Neville Landless]

And just how would you suggest this to be done, sir?

[John Jasper]

Through friendly discussion over a friendly nightcap, Mr. Landless. Shall we stay at my gatehouse within the hour?

[Neville Landless]

Will Drood be amenable?

[John Jasper]

He's already accepted my invitation.

[Neville Landless]

Then I shall accept also.

[John Jasper]

Thank you, Mr. Landis. You shall not regret it, I assure you. I took my leave then and pursued my way through the silent cobbled streets of Cloisterham. My past lingered beside the city's venerable crypt, that strange jumble of old walls, ancient Druidic stone of decaying monuments, wherein dwelt the bones of centuries of cloisterums dead. Upon reaching it, I forsook the cobblestones of the street for the rubble of the crypt. You were not surmounted by the yard gate, Mr. Jasper. Oh, is that you, Durgles? What was it you said?

[Durdles]

I said, where is a mound, Mr. Jasper?

[John Jasper]

Well, what is it?

[Durdles]

Lime, that's what.

[John Jasper]

Lime. What you call quicklime.

[Durdles]

Ay, Quick enough to eat your bones and your boots with a little handy stirring. Quick enough, surely to eat your bones.

[Harlow Wilcox]

Really?

[John Jasper]

Now, you use it in your stone mason work, do you?

[Durdles]

Ay, no. It's little enough stonework for Durdles these days, what with a mayor and them wanting to learn where the old ones is.

[John Jasper]

Yes. Searching for the final resting places of ancient druids, aren't you?

[Durdles]

Ay, trying task it is too, what with the way they're buried here. Without no rhyme nor reason. Scattered about like in walls and under passageways.

[John Jasper]

At best, I'd say it was an impossible task. Durdles.

[Durdles]

Not for Durdles and his armor. It's not Hammer.

[John Jasper]

How can that possibly help?

[Durdles]

Well, look you over here, Mr. Jasper. Here's a wall. Thick it is, over six feet. Crumbling bad in spots. Hard to tell just what might be buried there, if anything. But Girdles will soon put an end to that mystery. I tops, you see solid here, Unolden. So I goes on tapping all over here. Nothing. I tap some more here I find solid hollow again.

[John Jasper]

There you have it, Mr. Jasper.

[Durdles]

Walls, hollow door filled with rubbish and what not, I wager. But hollow. Plain enough. Like most of the walls around here. Plenty of room in them for a hundred more bodies if need be.

[John Jasper]

Yes, I dare say. Well, thank you kindly for the most illuminating lecturer.

[Durdles]

Well, now, you didn't say why you come visiting here in the first place, Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

I. I don't believe I know, Doddles. I don't believe. When I arrived at my lodgings, Edwin was already there. And no sooner have we got the fire blazing and made ourselves comfortable than Neville Landless put in his appearance. Please to sit down, Mr. Landless. Whatever small comfort you find here, consider to be your own.

[Neville Landless]

My thanks, Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

Turn up lamp on the desk, will you, Edwin? I'll prepare some mulled wine for that nightcap I promised.

[Edwin Drood]

Of course, Jack.

[John Jasper]

You'll probably notice, Mr. Landis, that I have the lamp so arranged as to illuminate a painting over the chimney place.

[Neville Landless]

I had noticed it, Mr. Jasper.

[John Jasper]

You'll recognize the subject, of course, Ms. Rosa.

[Neville Landless]

I could hardly fail to do so. Though the portrait is far from flattering to the original.

[John Jasper]

Don't be so hard on it, Mr. Landless. It was done by Edwin, who made me a present of it.

[Neville Landless]

I'm sorry, Mr. Frood. If I had known I was in the artist's presence, I doubt that your.

[Edwin Drood]

Remark would have differed, Mr. Landless.

[Neville Landless]

Perhaps it would not have, Mr. Drood.

[John Jasper]

Oh, come now, gentlemen. Let there be no more of this. The wine is prepared so and surely no lady, or at least a portrait of one should intrude upon the drinking habits of good friends. For you, Mr. Landless. Thank you, Sir Edwin.

[Edwin Drood]

Thanks, Jack.

[John Jasper]

Now for the first toast of the evening, I should like to oppose one to my nephew A most fortunate man. A toast?

[Neville Landless]

In truth, Mr. Jasper, I shall drink to it.

[Edwin Drood]

Thank you both, gentlemen.

[John Jasper]

Yes, Mr. Landless? I ask you to observe my nephew, for he is indeed one of the most fortunate men of the world.

[Edwin Drood]

And an enviable state if I truly possess it. Jack.

[John Jasper]

How could you doubt it, my boy? A family estate that eliminates the burdens of economic necessity. Rosa eager, waiting to supply you with the greatest blessings of domestic bliss and love. Quite different from your prospects and mine, is it not, Mr. Lanworth?

[Neville Landless]

Yes, quite different, Mr. Jaster.

[Edwin Drood]

Upon my soul, Jack, I almost feel apologetic for having my way smoothed as you describe. Almost, but not quite.

[Neville Landless]

Perhaps it might have been better for Mr. Drood to have known some hardships in the achievement of his possessions.

[Edwin Drood]

And why, pray, might it have been better for Mr. Drood to have known hardships?

[John Jasper]

Yes, Mr. Landless, tell us why.

[Neville Landless]

Because they might have made him more sensible of good fortune. That is not the result of his own merit.

[Edwin Drood]

Have you known hardships, may I ask?

[Harlow Wilcox]

I have.

[Edwin Drood]

And what have they made you sensible of?

[Neville Landless]

I have told you once before tonight.

[Edwin Drood]

You've told me nothing.

[Neville Landless]

I told you that you take a great deal too much upon yourself.

[Edwin Drood]

You added something else to that, if I remember.

[Neville Landless]

I did. I said that in my part of the world, you would be called to account for it.

[Edwin Drood]

That part of the world is a long way off, I believe.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

A very safe distance.

[Harlow Wilcox]

Stay here, then, say anywhere the gentleman may be found.

[Edwin Drood]

What would you know of gentleman, Lantless? You may know a common thief or a common boaster when you see him, but you're surely no judge of gentlemen.

[Harlow Wilcox]

I have taken all I'm going to take from you.

[John Jasper]

Here now, Edwin. Stand still. Mr. Lantless. Give me that bottle. I'll give it to your precious nephew.

[Narrator]

I warn you, Drood, I'll cut you.

[Harlow Wilcox]

Down someday for this. I swear it.

[John Jasper]

The scene had gone well, I thought. Very well. And after Lambert's enraged departure, after I had calmed Edwin down and sent him home, I waited for what I knew would inevitably follow. It was close to midnight when it did.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

May I come in?

[John Jasper]

Jasper of the.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

I. I understand you had some difficulty with my protege tonight.

[John Jasper]

He told you?

[Dean Chris Barkle]

There was no overlooking his wrought up state when he came home. I questioned him at once. Must have been rather difficult.

[John Jasper]

Murderous might be a more exact term. Murderous?

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Surely you exaggerate, Jasper.

[John Jasper]

I hardly think.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

But what could justify the use of such an expression?

[John Jasper]

The facts. I feel certain that if I had not been there to intervene, he would have laid Edwin dead at his feet.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Oh.

[John Jasper]

Unbelievable.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

And yet he did repeat to me the warning he gave young Drood.

[John Jasper]

That he'd cut him down someday.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

His exact words.

[John Jasper]

I think, sir, that you have in your charge a most dangerous man. One who might well attempt to carry out his threat against Edwin's life.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Oh, no, no, no. I can't believe that. Jesper, I'm confident that if we could get them together again, get them to shake hands upon it, all their differences could be resolved.

[John Jasper]

You're much more optimistic than I.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

Surely it's worth a try. For your nephew's sake, if for no other.

[Neville Landless]

Talk to him.

[Dean Chris Barkle]

I'll talk with Neville. I know he'll meet with brood whenever and wherever you say.

[John Jasper]

Very well, Dean. I'll try. Though I say to you now, and you are my witness, I'm convinced that unless Neville Landrus leaves Cloisterum, the end result could be nothing but tragedy. It was two days later that Dean Chris Barco brought me assurance of Neville's willingness to cooperate. Immediately, I sought out Edwin Drood for a dinner on Christmas Eve. Just the three of us. And so the stage was set and the hours flew and the ugly streets of Cloisterham turned bright and gay with the holly, the mistletoe. The dinner in my lodgings went cheerfully and well that Christmas Eve. The holiday spirit burned as brightly as the fire in the hearth. There was peace on earth to all men of good will. Not even the unseasonable storm that began to rage outside could dampen the gy of the evening. Rather, it served as a challenge, an opportunity to heighten the feeling of good fellowship that seemed to be born that night, Sometime around midnight, when the two men, arm in arm, took their departure.

[Edwin Drood]

You would suggest something like this, Jack, then, going to see the river at this hour on Christmas Eve. Only a madman would suggest such a thing.

[John Jasper]

And only two young madmans such as you would take up such a pedestrian. If indeed you are to take it up.

[Neville Landless]

Nothing could stop me from it now, Mr. Jasper. It's unbelievable that that sluggish muddy stream could ever become a raging turret.

[John Jasper]

Nevertheless, you'll find a disposal, Mr. Landless. One of the few worthwhile sights to behold in Cloisterham. Our river reborn at the height of a storm. I warn you to be careful, however. The footing will be treacherous.

[Edwin Drood]

You're a wicked man, Jack. To inflame us over the idea and then attempt to draw us back. Will you not succeed in stopping us now? Ain't Ital?

[John Jasper]

No, Edwin.

[Neville Landless]

Nothing will stop us now.

[John Jasper]

Then come along.

[Edwin Drood]

We'll be on our merry way.

[John Jasper]

There is little I can tell you the night that followed. For there is little that I remember clearly. I know only that when dawn finally broke, I found myself in the organ loft playing my clothing wet through. And burning within my brain was a memory. A memory of a man walking alone through the wind and rain in the black of night. A man walking through the deserted streets. Close to him, the streets that suddenly unknown to him were no longer deserted. It. A memory? I said it was. Or was it a dream? I did not know. But as I sat there in that organ lot in the dim light of Christmas morn, there was one thing I did know. Edwin Drew would never be seen again.

[Narrator]

Suspense presented by autolite. Tonight's star, Mr. Herbert Marshall.

[Harlow Wilcox]

This is Harlow Wilcox speaking for Autolight. World's largest independent manufacturer of automotive electrical equipment. Autolite is proud to serve the greatest names in the industry. They are members of the Autolite family as well as are the 98,000 autolite distributors and dealers in the United States and thousands more in Canada and throughout the world. Our family also includes the nearly 30,000 men and women in 28 great autolite plants from coast to coast and Autolyte plants in many foreign countries, as well as the 18,000 people who have invested a portion of their savings in Autolight. Every Autolite product is backed by constant research and precision built to the highest standards of quality performance. So remember, from bumper to tail light, you're always right with Auto Light.

[Narrator]

Next week, part two of Charles Dickens unfinished novel, the Mystery of Edwin Drood. At which time we will attempt to solve this literary puzzle. Our Star Once again, Mr. Herbert Marshall. That's next week on suspense. Suspense is produced and directed by Elliot Lewis with music composed by Lucian Morowic and conducted by Gluskin. The Mystery of Edwin Drew was adapted from Charles Dickens unfinished novel by Sydney Marshall. In tonight's story, Terry Kelp was heard as Edwin Drew. Betty Harford as Rosa, Ben Wright as Landless, Joseph Kearns as Dean, Chris Sparkle and William Johnstone and his Durdles.

[Rosa]

You can buy Autolite resistor or standard type spark plugs, Auto Light stay full batteries and Autolite electrical parts at your neighborhood Autolite dealers. Switch to Autolyte. Good night.

[Harlow Wilcox]

This is the cbs radio network.