Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode Summary: Crime Classics 53-06-22 002 The Shockingly Peaceful Passing of Thomas Edwin Bartlett

Release Date: April 11, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled Crime Classics 53-06-22 002 The Shockingly Peaceful Passing of Thomas Edwin Bartlett, host Thomas Hyland delves into a mysterious and serene death that unfurls into a complex tale of love, betrayal, and possible murder in late 19th-century Pimlico, England. Through meticulous narration and dramatic reenactments, the story unravels the circumstances leading to the untimely demise of Thomas Edwin Bartlett, exploring the intricate relationships between him, his young wife Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire, and her enigmatic tutor George Dyson.

Setting and Characters

Pimlico, England, 1885

• Thomas Edwin Bartlett: A dedicated grocer and a loving husband who appears serene and deeply committed to his wife’s education.
• Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: A 16-year-old student, bright and eager in subjects like geography, history, and botany, yet struggling with algebra.
• George Dyson: A 21-year-old tutor proficient in the three Rs and chemistry, whose interest in Adelaide extends beyond professional boundaries.

The Marriage and Early Harmony

Thomas Edwin Bartlett marries Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire, a young and studious girl who continues her education under the guidance of George Dyson. Their household showcases a harmonious blend of domestic life and academic pursuit. Adelaide excels academically, excelling in mathematics with Dyson's tutelage, which fosters a close-knit bond between the tutor and student.

Notable Interaction:

• [05:01] Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: "But of course. Monsieur Barnois."
• [13:08] Thomas Hyland: "Passion in Pimlico."

Conflict and Rising Tension

Despite the outward harmony, underlying tensions surface as Adelaide grapples with her academic challenges and marital responsibilities. Bartlett, though loving, becomes increasingly neglectful, retreating into his duties at the grocery store and offering minimal support for Adelaide’s studies. Adelaide's frustration grows, leading to emotional distress and a desire to escape her constrained life.

Notable Exchange:

• [07:05] Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: "I do not wish it anymore. I do not wish school."
• [07:24] Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: "I do not wish to be a school girl. Wife. What? A woman. Wife. A mother. Wife."

The Chloroform Plot Unveiled

George Dyson, leveraging his knowledge of chemistry, introduces Adelaide to chloroform, a potent chemical capable of inducing deep sleep or even death. Initially presented as a remedy for Thomas’s persistent stomach ailments, chloroform becomes a pivotal element in the narrative, raising suspicions about Dyson’s true intentions.

Discussion on Chloroform:

• [14:10] George Dyson: "Chloroform is a colorless, heavy and volatile liquid having a peculiar ethereal aura which cannot be perceived."
• [14:19] Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: "Can cause death."

The Night of Death

On New Year's Eve, amidst a quiet celebration marked by indulgent consumption of champagne, Thomas Bartlett succumbs to chloroform poisoning. The circumstances of his death are notably peaceful and undramatic, leading to bewilderment and subsequent investigation.

Key Moment:

• [23:20] Thomas Edwin Bartlett: "Drink."

The Investigation and Trial

A post-mortem examination reveals a significant presence of chloroform in Bartlett’s system, prompting a coroner's inquiry. Adelaide Bartlett and George Dyson become the primary suspects, facing accusations of willful murder. During the trial, both parties vehemently proclaim their innocence:

• George Dyson's Testimony:

  • [27:07] "I use the chemical merely to clean spots from my clothing. I believe neatness is next to righteousness."

• Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire's Testimony:

  • [27:46] "I loved my husband. He encouraged me to pursue studies of various kinds and decided to please him."

After deliberations, the jury returns a verdict of not guilty, leaving the true nature of Bartlett’s death shrouded in mystery.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with lingering questions about the fates of Adelaide and George post-trial. Whether the chloroform was a mere accident, a misguided attempt at helping, or a premeditated act remains unresolved. The story underscores themes of ambition, control, and the dark undercurrents that can lie beneath seemingly peaceful exteriors.

Final Reflection:

• [28:28] Thomas Hyland: "It may be safe to assume that some of the dust breathed by the Pimlicans on evening walks has been contributed by George and Adelaide and Mr. Bartlett."

Notable Quotes

• Thomas Hyland:

  • [00:32] "Tonight my report to you on the shockingly peaceful passing of Thomas Edwin Bartlett."
  • [11:29] "Oh, wow. Bravo."

• Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire:

  • [07:05] "I do not wish it anymore. I do not wish school."
  • [23:07] "I have had enough drink."
  • [25:00] "Oh, you confess it now, do you not? That I am a woman. An attractive woman yet. And finally a wife."

• George Dyson:

  • [09:24] "If X minus 1 equals 0, then X is equal to 1."
  • [17:20] "I've noticed something. Not your husband? He looks poorly."

• Thomas Edwin Bartlett:

  • [19:55] "You're a good fellow, Adelaide. Don't worry about me."

Production Credits

• Adaptation: Morton Fine and David Friedkin
• Music: Bernard Herman
• Production and Direction: Elliot Lewis
• Voice Cast:
  • Thomas Hyland: Lou Merrill
  • Thomas Edwin Bartlett: Herb Butterfield
  • Adelaide Blanche de La Tremoire: Betty Harford
  • George Dyson: Terry Kilburn

Closing Remarks

Crime Classics 53-06-22 002 The Shockingly Peaceful Passing of Thomas Edwin Bartlett masterfully blends historical ambiance with a suspenseful narrative, inviting listeners to ponder the enigmatic circumstances surrounding Bartlett's death. Through evocative storytelling and rich character development, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of true crime narratives from the Golden Age of Radio.