The Witness for the Prosecution

Even though a short story Agatha Christie does know how to pack a punch. And give readers something to think about.

SPOILER ALERT!

In The Witness for the Prosecution Mr Mayherne thought this case seemed dark, and the guilt of the prisoner, Leonard Vole was clad tight. But Mr. Mayherne had doubts has he was talking to Vole.

The story was that Vole killed an elderly lady, Miss. French. Because she was rich, lived alone, and eccentric. And had eight cats. Typical description you read.

So Mr Mayherne goes into lawyer mode to establish the things are wrong on what is said about Leonard Vole. The only reason he had anything to do with Miss. French is because of her money. He starts there. Who told you Miss. French was well off? My friend George Harvey of course. He probably won't remember it was some time ago.

Mr. Mayherne gets frustrated with Vole for not answering his questions seriously. I don't like the line you speak to me with. Mr Vole it is you that I look to guide me.

More gets out on he and Miss. French. Why was he there so long. Because Vole is a weak nature. One of those people who can't say No. She was worried about some investments and knew little of money matters. Vole's dealings with Miss French were perfectly fair and above board. He acted in her best interest. That will hardly do. Mr Vole its not up to the witness to find out who murdered victim. You need alibi.

Finally it comes out another excuse that Vole has an alibi, his wife Romaine. I was with her at the time of murder. As Vole spoke of Romaine that she is devoted to him. That she would do anything in the world for him. Mr Mayherne's heart sank.

Fact remains wife never met Miss French.

Mr Mayherne goes and questions wife but she would not make good witness since she admitted what she needed to say.

A letter gets written to Mr. Mayherne. If he wants to find out the truth he needs to go to the rental place to find out. He follows the lead. There is a letter....

How did you get this letter. Doesn't matter the old lady says. Just give me my money.

Trail begins wife is a witness. Fingers crossed. Wife tells her side. And as Mr. Mayherne looks at her he notices something.

The question remains did Romaine give enough testimony to make Leonard Vole not guilty? Or is he really guilty? hmm....

Update: After watching a version of The Witness for the Prosecution I realize that a story especially a classic as Agatha Christie stories are, should be left alone. The story should end the way she wanted. Probably being a short story that’s why the ending was more dramatic and not just as is. Rather see it stay the same. Again because it a short story it needs to be drawn out. I don’t have to like it though.

Although it did answer the question of who was that other  that had the letters for the lawyer.

I give The Witness for the Prosecution  5-------->

Can't pass on Agatha Christie!