The Murder of Francis Rattenbury: Rattenbury & Stoner, 1935

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 29 ส.ค. 2022
  • There were only five possible suspects to the murder of an architect in a bungalow in Bournemouth in 1935: as Mr Rattenbury couldn't have attacked himself from behind, and the six year old child was quite obviously excluded, it reduced the field even further. And when one of the suspects confessed to the murder, it should have been the simplest of cases, really. But it wasn't. Someone got away with murder. The case of Rattenbury and Stoner, the investigation and subsequent trial is rightly one of the most celebrated cases in British Criminal history. It has spawned numerous books, plays, and television dramas. Here is a new take on the case...
    They Got Away With Murder
    A number of people have asked if they can help support my channel - I don't have any adverts on my channel (and don't intend to) but if anyone wishes to help defray the expenses of making these videos in some small way, they can buy me a cup of coffee! www.buymeacoffee.com/MarkJohn...
    Mark John Maguire

ความคิดเห็น • 742

  • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
    @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +187

    A number of people have asked if they can help support my channel - I don't have any adverts on my channel (and don't intend to) but if anyone wishes to help defray the expenses of making these videos in some small way, they can buy me a cup of coffee! www.buymeacoffee.com/MarkJohnMaguire

    • @SukiSays23
      @SukiSays23 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      I'm sure I'm not the only one who is happy you've provided a way for us to encourage you. Thank you

    • @alanberry1318
      @alanberry1318 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I am sorry John. I can't get the coffee donation to work. I have tried both credit and debit cards. Will try again later.

    • @grandmoffpuppeteer
      @grandmoffpuppeteer ปีที่แล้ว +7

      have you tried Patreon or the TH-cam tip thing?

    • @davidthompson8536
      @davidthompson8536 ปีที่แล้ว

      ⁰⁰⁰

    • @Boo-dawg.
      @Boo-dawg. ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@alanberry1318 The same thing happened to me, I tried to buy a coffee to support the This is monsters channel and I couldn't get it to work either. I don't know what the issue is, but it's extremely frustrating.

  • @TheKulu42
    @TheKulu42 ปีที่แล้ว +132

    Sadly enough, it seems that Alma had a talent for spotting vulnerable men, old and young, and manipulating them. Yes, I agree with your reasoning that she was the murderer. And I've got to say how much I enjoy your illustrations. The one of Alma chasing that poor policeman is priceless!

    • @hymatwat9412
      @hymatwat9412 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Vicky Howe

    • @moondancer4660
      @moondancer4660 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I laughed out loud when I saw that!!

    • @TheKulu42
      @TheKulu42 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@moondancer4660 I grinned. It looked like something out of a Marx Brothers or Three Stooges comedy!

    • @midnightodellewest1999
      @midnightodellewest1999 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@moondancer4660 as did I 😂

    • @lindc1070
      @lindc1070 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Though acquited , her conscience did her in. What is sad is Edith Thompson who was truly not guilty was found guilty and executed for a similar crime.

  • @unigateman
    @unigateman ปีที่แล้ว +35

    Great, I messaged you privately a while back about this case, I was born in Bournemouth and as a child in the 70s I used to often walk past the cottage where the murder took place. I was in the UK 6 months ago and the house is still in the same state as it was 40 years ago.. same net curtains, creepy and untouched. I have tried to find who now owns the house. George Stoner lived in Moordown Bournemouth until he died never spoke about the case.. Thanks again for this

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Thanks Stewey - yes indeed. I have thought long and hard about this case, and wanted to be sure that Mrs Rattenbury was culpable. Conventional wisdom (since Tennyson Jesse) has viewed Stoner as an unfortunate boy with a fevered imagination, who committed the murder; Mrs Rattenbury was the victim. I have never accepted this analysis of the murder since I first read of it in 1993. Nevertheless, I wanted to be convinced in my own mind that Mrs R was indeed guilty. I have only recently decided that she was.

    • @sharonletchford9375
      @sharonletchford9375 ปีที่แล้ว

      Interesting. Amazing the home is still their, did you take photos of it? Would have been interesting to see inside & out.
      Pleased this channel which I've just discovered , has covered this case for you. All the very best..

    • @Bpl541
      @Bpl541 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I think Alma Rattenbury was guilty of the murder. I also think that when she advertised for a young handyman she had already met him and wamted to bring him to live in her house. I feel sorry for her husband who she destroyed and for the young Stoner who lived with his knowledge and memories for the rest of his life. It’s such a sad story. I hope her son was able to live a good life😢

  • @marycahill546
    @marycahill546 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    Wow, what a story! The young son John was raised in Canada by Alma's sister. He lived and learned architecture under Frank Lloyd Wright in Arizona, and became a well known architect in his own right. He never believed his mother committed the murder, saying she was "too naïve" to do it.

    • @mauricedavis2160
      @mauricedavis2160 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Great information, thank you!!!🙏👍👻

  • @Jubilee33382
    @Jubilee33382 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Another fascinating tale, told so eloquently! Thank you. I was dreading the ending, thinking that the young lad would hang, mercifully he had a life afterwards. You have to have pity for the son John, having lost both his parents in such an appalling way.

  • @SueGirling68
    @SueGirling68 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Hi, the thing is when Mrs Rattenbury made the statement that she thought she was strong enough and that she had made a muddle of it, this is the truth because most people who are inebriated usually speak the truth. I actually found and visited her grave, it wasn't too far from her Husbands who at the time I visited and looked through church records also was in an unmarked grave near where I lived near Bournemouth. Thank you for sharing, much love. xx ❤

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you, Sue - yes, I understand her grave is not far away from her husband's. It is always interesting to visit the places and graves of many of these people in such stories. I visited the grave of Rose Harsent (Peasenhall Mystery) a couple of years ago, while visiting my sister in Suffolk. There were some old dried flowers on the grave (it was August) and much of the base of the grave had grown over, so only the headstone cross was visible.

  • @thedativecase9733
    @thedativecase9733 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I had never heard of this murder before. It's hard to have much sympathy for Alma, or even her husband, but I'm glad that George wasn't hanged and lived out the rest of his life. He was very young and probably feeling overwhelmed by the emotion aroused by his first love affair. It's a very interesting story - thank you for bringing it to us.

  • @Hexicawitchbroom
    @Hexicawitchbroom ปีที่แล้ว +20

    Thank you for this excellent piece about the Rattentbury case. George Percy Stoner was my father's half-brother. After doing my own research, over the years, I never believed GP committed the crime. I believe Grandfather claimed, at the trial, that George Percy was his only child, that was not true, he had four other children by another marriage before he married George Percy's mother. My father was also named George Stoner (George was his middle name but the one he went by). He was a policeman in Kent at the time of the murder. The trial, as you can imagine, made his life extremely difficult, although he eventually retired after thirty years with the rank of Inspector. I never knew my uncle and only found out about the Rattenbury case after the death of my father.

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Thank you for your fascinating comment. I did come across the fact that George Percy's father had a number of other offspring - and a previous wife, which was at odds with what he told the court. My assumption was he was bigamously married, as I could find no record of a divorce? It seems to me to have been a common enough phenomenon at that time when divorce was difficult and expensive. I believe my own Great Grandmother was bigamously married in Dublin! I also saw that one of the half-brothers was a policeman - presumably your father - and wondered what he made of it all. I can imagine it must have been an embarrassment - which is presumably why he never spoke of it to you. It would have been interesting to know his thoughts!

    • @Hexicawitchbroom
      @Hexicawitchbroom ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Thank you for your reply. I have become something of the family historian, as I used to teach Ancestry at night school, and naturally used my own investigations to help my students with theirs. Yes, we also believe that grandfather was living bigamously (naughty man) having walked out, leaving my grandmother to bring up four children by herself. My mother later told me that the scandal had damaged my father's career as he was set to rise quite high in the ranks. One of my aunts also lived in Bournemouth at the time but moved away, her surname being too much of a give-away. She found it very hard to deal with the inevitable questions and curiosity. Having said all of that, I would still like to have had the chance to meet Uncle Percy.

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@Hexicawitchbroom Indeed - it would have been fascinating to have an insight into what kind of a man he was...

    • @charliesmith_
      @charliesmith_ ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you Tulley and Mark. X🧡🌷

  • @candicebergstrom4490
    @candicebergstrom4490 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    The thought of Alma chasing the officer around, trying to kiss him, made me laugh. But, your artwork of that scene made it even funnier!

  • @chachadodds5860
    @chachadodds5860 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    What utterly selfish people.

  • @susanwaldron6831
    @susanwaldron6831 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I love sitting back and allowing your voice to wash over me as I listen to another well written tale of murder. Thank you.

  • @Apollo_Mint
    @Apollo_Mint ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I, along with everyone who has been following Mark's TH-cam channel for years, never cease to be astounded with the quality he brings to us. Sometimes I wonder if these series were ever televised whether they would add to the real life drama by having professional actors, directors, script writers, _et al_ , enacting the horrifying events. I do, however, worry that despite all their best efforts, the real magic that transforms us into silent witnesses following these tragic figures is Mark's creativity, his pathos for the people involved, and the appreciation not only for our contemporary perspective on what justice means, but also what it would have meant to the families, friends, and general public affected by those events around that time. Often, I find in Mark's meticulous work that life imitates the theatre, just as much as theatre imitates life. We traverse through brutality to scenes that seem so absurd that they border on comedy, and yet a few moments later we become uncertain whether to reach for the box of tissues as even the most hateful villain descends into depths even Oedipus and Faustus would pity. Rather than a televised butchering of what we lucky subscribers regard as treasure, I would nevertheless gratefully welcome a given opportunity, if ever possible, of Mark actually hosting a live event for an audience, perhaps with accompanying Powerpoint presentation to help illustrate the people and events of the time. For example, Temple Church would be an ideal location to host such an evening with its amazing acoustics. And then we could afterwards also treat Mark to a few drinks in the historic pubs nearby. Something like that in the precious little lifetime we all share, would truly be worth even more than getting away with murder!

    • @loisreese2692
      @loisreese2692 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Apollo Mint Hear, hear. Well written.

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That is a humbling and lovely suggestion, Apollo Mint - one day when time permits, perhaps!

  • @Brind-amour
    @Brind-amour ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Lust destroys lives.
    Thank you Mr Maguire, your remarkable work is highly appreciated!

  • @lizzynunez4906
    @lizzynunez4906 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    I L❤️VE your story telling voice 🥰, it's extremely relaxing! I suffer from insomnia and your voice helps me fall asleep. Thank you!!!!!!😴💕

  • @ohthehorror6402
    @ohthehorror6402 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    She most definitely killed him. Ah, Mark sublime storytelling once again. Thank you for the pleasure of listening to your wonderful prose.

  • @twinkle3026
    @twinkle3026 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Thank you for covering this story so eloquently! I read this book, a few years ago and i must say, you have done a great job, covering all of the key points, so if someone unfamiliar with this story, is watching, they will be totally furnished with the facts. .... Incidentally, Mr Rattenbury's version of poor, is not quite on the same level as my version! £20'000.oo!!!!! WoW! Nowadays, during this recession, we are experiencing, here in The UK, some of us are lucky to have £20.oo, let alone £20'000.oo in our possession! ..... Thank you once again and please do keep up with the good work! xx

  • @anotherblonde
    @anotherblonde ปีที่แล้ว +23

    Are the dilated pupils in the photo of the rampant Alma a clue to her drug use? Up till 1960 cocaine, heroine, amphetamines and opium were quite common ingredients for many over the counter medicines for human and animal. Another well researched and presented doc. Thank you.

    • @meh_lady
      @meh_lady ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Possibly, but very large pupils are a characteristic of my paternal side so it could be naturally occurring. Nearly all of my dad’s side have them, myself included. The iris of my eyes are just a sliver of color unless the sun is going straight into them. My eye doctor says she can see for miles. 😂 Both of my kids have them as well (I’m mom BTW), so it must be a strong gene!

    • @albertkhare2711
      @albertkhare2711 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Not working in India, have tried several times. Wish could offer more than just my good wishes. As you haven't monetised your account.

  • @rosemaryedwards7239
    @rosemaryedwards7239 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I'm glad Stoner got out of jail, got married, and had a child! I hope his wife was even tempered and filled with grace! I hope he never looked back with bitterness but looked ahead grateful. Anyone could be a fool at any time!

  • @diannagoosey2722
    @diannagoosey2722 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    What a magnificent voice you have! Thank you for your story 😊

  • @piewitch3529
    @piewitch3529 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Thank you for another brilliant video, Christchurch in the town where I live and you can still get down to where Alma took her life and the house still stands in Manor Road.

  • @oakwoodian4465
    @oakwoodian4465 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Apologies if anyone else has commented on this but on TH-cam there is film of Frank Titterton with Alma Rattenbury at the piano singing one of her songs "Dark Haired Marie".

  • @berserkerkonge8095
    @berserkerkonge8095 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I look at my alerts and see a new crime story...I sit down, stop all I'm doing for a well deserved break.
    Thanks

  • @felixthecat3n2
    @felixthecat3n2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Just the ticket for my evening! Thank you as always Mark!

  • @ellstark372
    @ellstark372 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Brilliant as always Mark! I had never heard this story before, how desperately, desperately tragic for all parties involved. Thank you for your hard work x

  • @julieblackstock8650
    @julieblackstock8650 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    one of my absolute favourite crime stories

    • @leeannschaffer1433
      @leeannschaffer1433 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I entirely understand why! I'd never heard it.

  • @kgraham5820
    @kgraham5820 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is my first trip to this channel and I am so pleasantly pleased! I know I’ll be listening to more. This story, howbeit tragic, was excellent! Sir, Thank you very much for your splendid and captivating story telling.

  • @terrys7798
    @terrys7798 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Another fascinating retelling of a classic case. I've read a lot about this tale and remained on the fence as to who was the guilty party. However, your explanation of events is very persuasive Mark.
    For those interested, if you type Alma Rattenbury into the search bar on TH-cam it reveals footage of Alma playing piano to one of her own compositions, 'Dark Haired Marie'. The singer is Frank Titterton.
    Thanks again.

  • @MadMartell
    @MadMartell ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I’ve silently watched for quite a while. Throughly enjoying your content. It’s time to come out. I’m a fan.

  • @christinebiada1292
    @christinebiada1292 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Only an hour and a half left of work! YAY! Super excited! Notification popped up during lunch break.

  • @roberttaylor6295
    @roberttaylor6295 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Mark you really are the sans pareil in the genre as shown in this gripping essay which filled my afternoon superbly as the dreaded rain splattered my window, which added to the drama! Thank yet again! Rob

  • @RSZ229
    @RSZ229 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I'm so excited there's a new one! Thank you!

  • @raindegrey9429
    @raindegrey9429 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    You have the best voice...it is just so SOOTHING. You are discussing murder and mayhem but your voice makes me feel like I am relaxing in a hot bath. Do like.

  • @alyssavigneault9677
    @alyssavigneault9677 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I get SO excited when these videos pop up. And thank you So much for not having ads. It takes me four or five listens to get thru a story. The stories are compelling enough that I can get into them, relax and fall asleep. And thats a massive compliment. Normally my anxious mind keeps me awake. The content and your voice is Utterly Perfect and no ads means I can actually fall asleep without some random advert screaming at me and waking me up! I go back to each video over and over again til I manage to complete the full story. Thank you for what you do!!

  • @helenejampierremarsh1896
    @helenejampierremarsh1896 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Very happy to hear you again on this channel.
    I very much enjoyed reading your book " The murder of Madame X" and agree with your thoughts.
    For anyone who hasn't read it yet, it is a pearl.

    • @terribongers2465
      @terribongers2465 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I’m about half way thru. I also hear Mark’s voice as I read😆

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you very much, Helene - I am especially delighted you enjoyed Madame X!

  • @nellieroman3505
    @nellieroman3505 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I was sooo thrilled to see there is a new video. I shouted so loud it startled my son. He didn't understand my excitement. Thank you Mark for your thorough work. It is always such a treat! I savor every word. You should narrate books. Good to hear you Mark.

  • @seanpaterson6863
    @seanpaterson6863 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Dear MJM,
    Grateful to you for such absorbing and skillfully produced and delivered stories.
    Your discourse is like listening to a judicial archaeologist go to work.
    Bravo!

  • @PollyAlice2000
    @PollyAlice2000 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    John, I am delighted to support your channel! We all appreciate your historical research that illuminates your essays in the theater of the mind. THANK YOU for another wonderful story!

  • @Chrissy259
    @Chrissy259 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Mr. Maguire, So Happy to see another video by you! The pleasure is all OUR'S! I love your voice, presentations and wonderful sketches. Keep up the fabulous work! 💖
    Chrissy

  • @nalodailec
    @nalodailec ปีที่แล้ว +9

    TH-cam failed to trigger a notification to me. Thankfully I was enjoying a slow start to the day and was delighted to see this tale. What a sad mess Rattenbury, Stoner and everyone encountered for themselves by coming together. Thank you Mr Maguire

  • @candicebergstrom4490
    @candicebergstrom4490 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I was just scrolling through the feed on my home page, & became ridiculously excited when this appeared in the feed! Thank you, kind sir!

  • @Mudhooks
    @Mudhooks ปีที่แล้ว +15

    “…chased tge constable around the room…” It’s reads like a scene from one of the “Carry On” films.

    • @Mudhooks
      @Mudhooks ปีที่แล้ว +7

      The scene of Alma’s death is rather poignant. She thought of jumping in front of a train but it was too public. Instead, she found herself in a peaceful field of buttercups by the river. I can imagine that her mind finally found peace.
      I’m not dismissing the fact that she murdered her husband just understanding her state of mind when she found herself in the place where she ended her life.

  • @zaygezunt
    @zaygezunt ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Powerful, poignant, poetic. Another masterpiece!

  • @felixthecat3n2
    @felixthecat3n2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Mark, have you ever considered having an event where you do what you do so well in front of an audience? I'm sure many people would pay handsomely for an evening of "They got away with murder" presented by you in person... Just a thought...

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      It is a lovely suggestion - thank you. I don't know where I would find the time, though!

  • @gdhse3
    @gdhse3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Yay! A new story from my favorite storyteller! Thank you 😊

  • @bethluther3950
    @bethluther3950 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Again, thank you for a gripping true-life mystery. Your stories are something I look forward to!

  • @clairegreenaway9653
    @clairegreenaway9653 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    So glad to have you back!!

  • @ShilohMarley
    @ShilohMarley ปีที่แล้ว +6

    My heart beams once in a few months I tell you. Thank you Mark.

  • @amyjones8114
    @amyjones8114 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Whoa…I was on the edge of my chair! This tale had a lot of unpredictable turns…and a sad end.

  • @walterprossnitz3471
    @walterprossnitz3471 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    As a student at Glenlyon school, I was in the Rattenbury house in Victoria on an almost daily basis, beginning in 1966. The ménage a trois had occurred only 40 years earlier - well within the memories of many still living, including Major Simpson who bought the property, from Rattenbury I assume? around 1931, and moved the school there shortly thereafter. We all frequently saw the Major and his wife who lived in that very house while their son (now in his 90's) was the School Principal. All the students knew that the architect of the Legislative buildings and the Empress Hotel (at that time still nr 1 in Victoria) had lived in the house, but we were spared the sordid details...

    • @charliesmith_
      @charliesmith_ ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How interesting. Thanks for sharing x

  • @tundrellaCat68
    @tundrellaCat68 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Such a sad end to a man who left his lasting mark in Victoria, BC. So many beautiful buildings he designed one of which, Norfork House School is where his cottage is in swanky Oak Bay.

  • @Libbathegreat
    @Libbathegreat ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Wonderful and worth the wait as ever! I suspect Francis knew of the fling and found it a great source of relief, at first. Whoever said, "Find me the sexiest woman alive and I'll find you a man that's tired of her shit" must have had an 'Alma' of his own. I reckon it was the lavish spending more than the affair that led to the row that ended Francis' life.
    Troubling that they'd sentence a man to death on such questionable evidence. I do hope George found some peace in his later life.
    I think this may be one of your best posts yet. Your prose as always is top notch and the depth and detail you were able to gather and assimilate breathed life into these people. The dreamlike quality of the last sketch you did of Alma in that field of buttercups was particularly appropriate. Thanks for this and I look forward to the next one :)

  • @aliquot8404
    @aliquot8404 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I agree with your assessment that Alma struck all the blows. I don't think the murder of her husband was premeditated, and certainly she was under the influence of alcohol and drugs and likely mentally imbalanced. She confessed to committing the murder repeatedly, even after she sobered up. Then she changed her mind and persuaded her young lover to take the fall. The wicked woman nearly murdered two men with this decision. Even in committing suicide she was entirely stupid and selfish. She should have confessed and exonerated George. I'm glad his sentence was commuted, although 7 years seems steep punishment for falling under the influence of an unbalanced sexual predator.

  • @mattiestorin
    @mattiestorin ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I absolutely love when I see a new episode on here. Saving this one as my Friday night treat. Thank you Mark.

  • @gordonclarkson2672
    @gordonclarkson2672 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I have little doubt that Mrs. Rattenbury was the culprit (although she was obviously of unsound mind), but I can't help wondering why, if she wanted to see her lover exonerated, she did not include a confession in her suicide note.

    • @Linnet09
      @Linnet09 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I can't make up my mind if she was actually of unsound mind, or merely had an undisciplined and impulsive personality that had its worst aspects accentuated by alcohol and drugs. But I hadn't thought about why she wouldn't confess in her suicide note, especially since she was still in the doting phase with her lover. She'd done so previously, although she was under the influence and might not even remember, like she claimed. Maybe she was just that self-centred, or, if the mental illness theory is correct, that irrational that all she could think about was her own misery. In a way, she reminds me a bit of Elvira Barney (also described on this channel), although I don't think Mrs Barney EVER thought of anyone but herself, and Mrs. Rattenbury did appear to be passionately attached to each of her husbands and lovers, for a little while anyway.

    • @biaedwards4025
      @biaedwards4025 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      excellent point.

  • @ManTroubled
    @ManTroubled ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Gosh, how good was that ! How on earth did she get away with this. Mind you I don't think Stoner was the sharpest tool in the shed either. While I had heard of this murder, Mark presented it in such a way to make this event, well, unforgettable. Another great presentation. Thank you sir. Folks, tell you friends about this channel, it needs more subscribers.

  • @charlottereitberger6253
    @charlottereitberger6253 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Dear Mr MJM, thank you so very much for this incredibly strange case. You are without a doubt the best kept secret on TH-cam.
    Your work is thoroughly enjoyed . I usually listen twice! 🇺🇸❤️

  • @richardday6220
    @richardday6220 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I am always amazed at the knack you have of selecting these stories, Mark. And how human you make the people involved. It'd be easy to paint all involved as monsters, but you are able to find the right words to make them fully fleshed out people. Whether that means the perpetrators are deserving of sympathy, wiser men than me will have to decide. Also, just like in your book, when you move from the facts of the case (which is always excellently done) to the effects it has on those involved (no spoilers for the end, for those who haven't listened yet), is where it really shone. The last 10 minutes had me waiting for what I was expecting, but you told the story in a way that still carried punch.

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Thank you very much indeed, Richard - I am delighted you like them, and also that you liked Madame X! I have completed another book in what I hope will be a series of 6 in this style, if you are interested. I shall make an announcement about it on yt soon. Again, many thanks.

    • @richardday6220
      @richardday6220 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TheyGotAwayWithMurder Excellent news - looking forward to it

  • @kathleenmckeithen118
    @kathleenmckeithen118 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    WOW, what a story, and you, Mr. McGuire, the consummate storyteller, once again told a very strange, and sad tale so well. Thank you so much for giving us histories we probably would never have known about. It, more than likely, didn't hurt Mrs. Rattenbury that she was a woman and a physically sick woman at that.

  • @DalekSec4
    @DalekSec4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Always amazed at your research to find these long forgotten cases. I have said it before your videos would make a ideal TV show. Imagine you could have actors playing the parts and of course you should be in the show as well.

  • @cricket8438
    @cricket8438 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Always a treat when you record a story!! Thank you so very much! 🎉😍🎊

  • @annwilliams6438
    @annwilliams6438 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I think she planned to trap Stoner into killing her husband from before she hired him. She seduced him and he fell in love with her as his first lover. However when it came time to murder her husband, Stoner brought in the mallet but then could not go through with it… by this time she was in a state of total turmoil and realised that she needed to do it herself- and then made a mess of the job. Stoner then took the mallet outside and she took a bunch of drugs.

  • @debbyparker5431
    @debbyparker5431 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I always start checking to see if you've posted anything about 3 1/2 weeks after the last one . You are absolutely my favorite storyteller . 💝💝💝

  • @mariefriedmann3203
    @mariefriedmann3203 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Very skillfully done! Terrific reading voice and such interesting cases... you really bring these people to life again.

  • @peterharris38
    @peterharris38 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I lived in Bournemouth and did my chefs apprenticeship in 3 large hotels all on Manor rd so this was a fascinating watch. Thanks for your great story telling.

  • @TheBeautifulWindsofAragon
    @TheBeautifulWindsofAragon ปีที่แล้ว +9

    Always feels like a feast when I see a notification from "They got away..."😊 Thank you!

  • @tamaradasilva2876
    @tamaradasilva2876 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Always thrilled when I find a new one! Thankyou xx

  • @marctempler3250
    @marctempler3250 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Well...an absolute reason for happiness today is a new edition of this series of true crimes from long ago the sophistication and intellectual framing of which is unequaled nor ever likely to be. My sincere thanks for all your great work. A real pleasure in an increasingly coarse and tawdry world.

  • @lauraorem1276
    @lauraorem1276 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I was hoping you'd cover this case! I remember reading about it when I was very young in a wonderful crime anthology called "The Edge of the Chair." Can't wait to listen!

  • @dufathor-leo
    @dufathor-leo ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Both Alma ("Peace at last"), and George ("Both the Lady and I in a highly emotional state") deeply summed up the fact. Thank you.

  • @MelanieMaguire
    @MelanieMaguire ปีที่แล้ว +7

    What a sad story! So many memorable images - her chasing the policeman for kisses - the lovers weekend spree - the jury taking only 48 minutes to come to a capital judgement - and of course the tragic turn of events at the end. A very strange case, one that I'd not heard of, some marvellous prose in here too! Thanks very much for all the hard work that goes into these "video essays", I'm amazed that you manage to fit everything in! Great work! :)

  • @judeinLA.
    @judeinLA. ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Love stories from the 1930’s.
    ✨ Thank you for posting.

  • @peachyteach1
    @peachyteach1 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Stayed up late because I had to see this! It was well worth me being unable to stay awake at work tomorrow, though. Your in-depth story telling and analysis is fascinating and fabulous. Thank you!

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      Ah thank you - as long as you aren't an Air Traffic Controller, a little doze at work should be tolerated!

    • @peachyteach1
      @peachyteach1 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TheyGotAwayWithMurder 😄 Yes it should!

  • @infernafirestein
    @infernafirestein ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Hi Mark! I’m always so excited when I see a new post from you. I will most certainly buy you a coffee. Thank you! And, Alma did it. What a strange woman.

  • @jennifergongora9727
    @jennifergongora9727 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I watch and listen to your stories as I'm settling for bed and as soon as it's over. I'll wake up and listen again, and ,again , and again ..Thank you for such great work stay well sir and stay blessed .

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      How nice - thank you, Jennifer!

    • @kayhathaway6956
      @kayhathaway6956 ปีที่แล้ว

      I do, exactly, the same thing. Your detailed story’s 15:54
      are very interesting and your voice is soothing.

    • @jennifergongora9727
      @jennifergongora9727 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kayhathaway6956 me too ...itvv is very soothing .🙏 May You have A blessed Easter weekend .

    • @E-Kat
      @E-Kat 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Gosh, how different can we be. I find it hard to listen as I remember this is a real story and this all had happened to a human beings. The reason behind these murders makes me uncomfortable and sad.
      I remember even slightest disagreement between my husband and I and I regret saying something to my husband in not very nice tone of voice. Completely dislike mean words, and unkind behaviour of a slightest calibre.
      I wish there was a magic potion we could sprinkle on everyone to make us all very kind and loving.
      Nothing on this planet matters more than love and peace.❤🤗👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩
      The solution to every problem is forgiveness and that's the best present we can give to ourselves.
      All my love to everyone!❤

  • @larryd.4305
    @larryd.4305 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    One part rash immaturity + two parts clinical insanity = one helluva sad mess!

    • @annwilliams6438
      @annwilliams6438 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      … and throw in the drinking…

  • @TotemCrow
    @TotemCrow ปีที่แล้ว +12

    There is a movie based on this story called 'Cause Celebre' with Helen Mirren and David Morrisey.

    • @ahuddleston6512
      @ahuddleston6512 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Wow! I'm definitely going to check it out! Thanks 👍

  • @Just-Jill
    @Just-Jill ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Going to fangirl. The writing is exceptional, one of your finest pieces. Your legal argument was on point (IMHO). I fell in love with the train sketch..I'm not sure why. This was uploaded right before a I sat a three hour university exam. I so enjoyed this presentation with a coffee afterward. And I liked the red shirt! Done fangirling..Thanks Mark, you never fail to bring your best. 🌟☕

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      Well that made me laugh, fangirl! Thank you!

    • @Just-Jill
      @Just-Jill ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@TheyGotAwayWithMurder 🤣

  • @stevenlaird676
    @stevenlaird676 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Another highly enjoyable story. You have a lot of (deserved) compliments to read through in this comment section. But after that...get back to work! We're insatiable, and waiting...🧐

  • @julianhubbard4198
    @julianhubbard4198 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Outstanding production. Thanks for these wonderfully told true crime stories.

  • @tiberiusgracchus4222
    @tiberiusgracchus4222 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Oh wow, this is one of my favorite yet! So awesome to come home from a long day at work and find this gem waiting for me. Your description of the "Burden of despair" is exquisite. "And yet it is pervasive. It has breached all defenses. It is in the citadel of reason itself." Well done!

  • @barbaralamson7450
    @barbaralamson7450 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I was asleep when you popped up. I must say, seeing this is just about the best thing to wake up to.
    I will stop in again when this has been listened to.

  • @primesspct2
    @primesspct2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Another fine true life account of a murder, gotten away with! I never tire of your stories, and very much look forward to the next!

  • @katrinacollins892
    @katrinacollins892 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    I was excited to see that you posted a new video. The level of research you do for each story results in outstanding quality, and your analysis of each case reveals your deep insight into the minds of troubled people. Just finished "The Murder of Madame X", and your illustrations were a delight. It's amazing that you found Sylvia and were able to provide such up-to-date information on the main characters and their descendants. I bought you some coffee, and will absolutely support you if you open a Patreon account.

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you so much, Katrina! I am delighted you liked it and especially the Murder of Madame X - the final discovery of Sylvia was such a great moment in my research of this case. No-one would believe the time and effort I put into it over the years! Oh - and thank you for coffee! :)

  • @Tsumami__
    @Tsumami__ ปีที่แล้ว +15

    Both Alma and Ratz sounded like gross people

  • @samsungtap4183
    @samsungtap4183 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    I'm 27yrs older than my wife, better check the tool shed !

  • @susannahhunt100
    @susannahhunt100 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Another Gem. Thank you so very much.

  • @alanberry1318
    @alanberry1318 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    I love your videos and your art work. I could listen to your narrative all day. Thank you again for your dedication and professionalism that is both entertaining and enlightening. I certainly hope the police and legal profession are more adept today.

  • @weilandiv8310
    @weilandiv8310 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I love your scene art sketches, Mark. They are unique in style and visually pleasing to the eyes... of course... the story!! It is like I am there. Gracias, Sir.

  • @skippingstones2023
    @skippingstones2023 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    This channel is far and away the best.

  • @AnneAndersonFoxiepaws
    @AnneAndersonFoxiepaws ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Love your videos Mark, they are so well researched and you have such a natural voice for documentary television. I will buy you a coffee at some point but am unemployed at present and feeling the cost of living crisis!

  • @stephpike3088
    @stephpike3088 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Fantastic! Going to treat myself to a bottle of wine, sit down and listen to another wonderful retelling of devilish deeds. As always - thank you Mark

    • @McMurphyxxx
      @McMurphyxxx ปีที่แล้ว

      I will do exactly the same 🍷cheers!

  • @Boo-dawg.
    @Boo-dawg. ปีที่แล้ว +6

    OMG! I've been looking everyday for the past week to see if you had posted. I'm on the way to pick up my son from work and just happened to see where you finally did! 🙌 Thank you 😊

  • @TheTesemeau
    @TheTesemeau ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Your best psychological exploration yet-and there have been some great ones!-of the mind of a murderer, fantastic work, thank you Mark You tell the story with such compelling detail and deep compassion, congratulations on a superb episode.

  • @jennifermaurer100
    @jennifermaurer100 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    So happy to see a new video from you. Thank you for all you do.

  • @stephaniesealy9375
    @stephaniesealy9375 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Another fantastic essay Mark and your voice and diction make the English language sound so beautiful! Thank you for you!

  • @crescentmoonchild4031
    @crescentmoonchild4031 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    The whole story is sad, so many lives ruined. I just can’t get past what he did to his first wife so he could be with Alma tho. He paid a very high price all in all. He lost favor in society, I’m sure his kids were not happy with him, he lost money, and he eventually lost his life. All for what?

  • @boris1932
    @boris1932 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    You do such a wonderful job with these cases! Your narration is perfect!

  • @WildWestGal
    @WildWestGal ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Another total winner from our favorite storyteller and artist! Excellent analysis, Mark! As always, looking forward to your next production. Cheers from So. Oregon, Danyel

  • @shaunswift2738
    @shaunswift2738 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    As ever another fantastic case, I always look forward to a brand new story. Thank you again Mark for all your hard work.

  • @mikewilliams4499
    @mikewilliams4499 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    The prodigal storyteller returns. I still feel a tweak of the titles would provide wonderful suspense. They got away with murder slightly gives the game away😉. Thank you Mark for your creative brilliance in drawing, writing, researching and delivering. If you got out of bed a wee bit earlier we might get more of these epic posts...I apologise Maestro. I have always pondered why my great Grandma was found Not Proven having been discovered in the kitchen of our Scottish castle with a boiled haggis, a leg of dried mutton, a frozen turnip and her dead husband, Colonel Wally McFlatulance, (head bashed in and a raw carrot up his back valley) lying in the gigantic pickling pot. Perhaps a story to follow. I think I am now ahead of you Mark on stents. My arms look like Red Rum went over them😉👍😘

    • @TheyGotAwayWithMurder
      @TheyGotAwayWithMurder  ปีที่แล้ว

      Take care, Mike! I am not anxious to have any more stents in the near future - so I am happy for you to beat me in this!