Compiled from the original records by George Wright
(See central column)
This is the third in the series of famous trials which was inaugurated by Peter Creswell's production of "The King's Tryall" in February, and made for something entirely new in radio drama. Howard Rose produced "Simon Lord Lovat" in May, and tonight Lance Sieveking is to produce "Richard Hathaway".

Again, nothing in the way of fiction has been added to historical fact, the dialogue and so forth being based on authenticated documents. It is apparent that the microphone technique of a static happening like a trial must differ altogether from that of the usual type of play in which there is a good deal of movement. Lord Chief Justice Holt, who presides over the trial, will be seated immediately under the microphone in order to be in the foreground of the listening auditorium, and listeners will be, so to speak, just behind his elbow and will hear the trial from exactly the same position as he will.

Dealing as it does with witchcraft, this trial has a special interest and fascination, and its historical truth gives reality that no fiction could supply. The engagement of Nicholas Hannen for the role of the Lord Chief Justice is good news. This distinguished West End actor comes far too seldom to the microphone.

The fourth trial in the series is to be that of Admiral Byng, and it is to be produced by Val Gielgud the first week in December.

('Richard Hathaway' was broadcast in the Regional Programme last night.)

[Cental column]

Famous Trials: 3: Richard Hathaway
Compiled from the original records by George Wright

The Trial took place at the Surrey Assizes on May 8, 1702, before Lord Chief Justice Holt. The charge was that the prisoner was a cheat and an impostor, in that he sought to cause Sarah Morduck to be burned at the stake for witchcraft.

Persons:
Richard Hathaway
Lord Chief Justice Holt
Mr. Conyers, Mr. Brodrick, Counsel for the Crown
Sir Thomas Jenner (Serjeant at Law), Counsel for the Defence
Sarah Morduck

Witnesses for the Prosecution:
The Rev. Dr. Martin
Mrs. Johnson
William Bateman
Mr. Hearne, brother to Sarah Morduck
Mr. Kensey, a chirurgeon
Elizabeth Baker, his servant
Mr. Stanton
Elizabeth Brand

Witnesses for the Defence:
Mr. Gibson
Anne Pearse, from the Hospital
Elizabeth Willoughby
Mr. Webb
Mr. Powell
Mrs. Davenport
Mrs. Walker
Mr. Flummery
Mrs. Dorman
Mrs. Dean
Dr. Hamilton
Sir Thomas Lane
Mr. Spurling;
Foreman of the Jury
and a Rude Medley of the Vulgar

Among those taking part are:
Nicholas Hannen, Frank Birch, Wallace Evennett, Henry Hallatt, Norman Shelley, Beatrice Gilbert, Eddie Jaye, Graveley Edwards, Philip Wade, Hal Walters, Denis Waldock, Elizabeth Addison, Wilfred Fletcher, Kathleen Rowse, Joyce Wodeman, Sylvia De Wit and Victor Keefe
Production by Lance Sieveking

Tonight at 21.25 (9.25)