Walnut-Tree House | A Ghost Story by Charlotte Riddell | A Bitesized Audiobook

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  • Опубліковано 13 чер 2024
  • Edgar Stainton returns to his native England, having made his fortune in the colonies, to take possession of Walnut-Tree House, an abandoned mansion inherited from a cousin who died in an asylum. Can he solve the mystery which surrounds the old house, which drove his relative out of his wits and which has led tenants and tradespeople alike to avoid the place at all costs...
    Narrated/performed by Simon Stanhope, aka Bitesized Audio. If you enjoy this content and would like to help me keep creating, there are a few ways you can support me:
    * Occasional/one-off support via Buy Me a Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/bitesize...
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    * Become a Bitesized Audio Classics member on UA-cam, from $1 per month with various benefits:
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    Chapters/Timestamps:
    00:00:00 Introduction
    00:01:16 Chapter 1: The New Owner
    00:12:49 Chapter 2: The Child
    00:29:05 Chapter 3: Seeking for Information
    00:42:58 Chapter 4: Brother and Sister
    00:53:01 Chapter 5: The Next Afternoon
    01:01:37 Chapter 6: The Missing Will
    01:06:45 Credits, thanks and further listening
    Charlotte Riddell (1832-1906), sometimes credited (in typically Victorian fashion) under her husband's name as "Mrs. J. H. Riddell", was born Charlotte Eliza Lawson Cowan in Carrickfergus, County Antrim, Ireland. She moved to London in 1855 and married Joseph Hadley Riddell, a civil engineer, two years later. She apparently turned to writing to make a living after her husband lost all his money, early in their marriage. Her early works were published under pseudonyms, as "R. V. M. Sparling" for 'Zuriel’s Grandchild' (1856), as "Rainey Hawthorne" for 'The Ruling Passion', and as "F. G. Trafford" for 'The Moors and the Fens' (both 1857); she continued using the Trafford alias until 1866. Recalling this period in an 1890 interview in The Pall Mall Gazette, Riddell said: “At that time I wrote under the nom de plume of ‘Trafford,’ for it was not considered quite the thing for a lady to write in her own name. My husband was much amused one day when a man told him that he knew Trafford the novelist well, and that he was a ‘very good sort of fellow, don’t you know?’ But though there were few ladies writing in those days it was not a bit easier to get one’s work accepted than now. All my publishers would look upon my writing as a joke at first.”
    In all she wrote 56 novels and short stories, of which several had a supernatural theme. Her best remembered shorter ghost stories include 'A Strange Christmas Game' and 'The Open Door'. She was also the co-proprietor and editor of the periodicals 'Home' and 'St. James's Magazine' in the 1860s and 70s. Her husband died suddenly in 1880; there were no children from their marriage, and from 1886 she "retired in seclusion" to Upper Halliford, Middlesex, until her death in September 1906.
    'Walnut-Tree House' first appeared in The Illustrated London News on 28 December 1878. It was subsequently republished in book form as part of 'Weird Stories', a collection of Charlotte Riddell's shorter fiction, in 1882. The setting in Lambeth, south-east London, reflects her own knowledge of the area - she lived for a number of years at 75 South Lambeth Road in "an old-fashioned house" (sadly now demolished) and the opening of 'Walnut-Tree House' describes the area vividly with old mansions still standing while new streets and houses were rapidly built up around them.
    Recording © Bitesized Audio 2022.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 352

  • @BitesizedAudio
    @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +34

    Chapters/Timestamps:
    00:00:00 Introduction
    00:01:16 Chapter 1: The New Owner
    00:12:49 Chapter 2: The Child
    00:29:05 Chapter 3: Seeking for Information
    00:42:58 Chapter 4: Brother and Sister
    00:53:01 Chapter 5: The Next Afternoon
    01:01:37 Chapter 6: The Missing Will
    01:06:45 Credits, thanks and further listening
    A short biography of the author and some background notes can be found in the video description

    • @waningmooncancer9628
      @waningmooncancer9628 Рік тому +2

      THANK YOU, SIMON!!!! A wonderful story to subject to your inimitable talent. My dreary life needed a happy ending. Thank you 😊🤗

  • @ruthhase-gutierrez9830
    @ruthhase-gutierrez9830 Рік тому +5

    I love these kinds of ghost stories, where the ghost isn't there to frighten, but only to seek help. This one pulls at the heart strings.

    • @leonaheraty3760
      @leonaheraty3760 Місяць тому

      I agree. If I ever encounter a ghost, I'll try to help them, if I can. 😊

  • @jackalina91
    @jackalina91 Рік тому +66

    This story was actually quite lovely- that’s 1 of the things about these older tales, that the story seems to be haunted rather than the other way around. Thank you Simon ♥️🇦🇺✌️

    • @Paxtonparsnip
      @Paxtonparsnip Рік тому +11

      Rather a clever observation! I’ve felt that feeling myself but have never had the wit or precision to put it so neatly! Well done!

    • @jackalina91
      @jackalina91 Рік тому +6

      @@Paxtonparsnip well thank you kind sir! 😎✌️

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +10

      That's a lovely way to put it, thank you Jackalina

    • @LazyIRanch
      @LazyIRanch Рік тому +8

      This is the first one of these stories that made me cry. It was the mental imagery I got from her poignant description of the little lad's despair and loss, and his devotion to his sister.
      Maybe because it made me think of my mother and her siblings.
      My grandmother died in 1932, she was young and had many children. My grandmother's mother was full Cherokee but no one even knows her name now because those orphans were taught to be ashamed of their "savage" blood.
      My mother and two of her siblings went to a Masonic orphanage in Ft. Worth. Their 14 year old sister was too old for the orphanage (anyone over 13 was considered an adult) so she went to be a caretaker for the children of a recently widowed man. He married her when she turned 15, and they had a long happy marriage. He died in the 1970s and I still remember him as a sweet, funny man who adored my aunt. She never remarried.
      The other children, my mother's half-siblings? They had nowhere to go. Some survived to adulthood. I got to meet two of them. They had their mother's lovely brown skin, dark eyes, and black hair. They also had difficult lives in Oklahoma, as white folks didn't accept them, and their relatives on the reservation didn't want them either.
      I wish my mother had written about her experiences growing up in the Depression in an orphanage, separated from her siblings, but I think it was too painful. It reminds me of a Dickens story, set in the 20th century!

    • @timd4524
      @timd4524 Рік тому +3

      Yes. I found it a very touching story myself.

  • @goatsandroses4258
    @goatsandroses4258 Рік тому +4

    Beautiful story, but I had to copy the line, "You see, I have been used to roughing it, and I can get along very well for a night without servants." I had to laugh at that! I suppose I've been "roughing it" for the past 50+ years...

  • @evelanpatton
    @evelanpatton Рік тому +11

    What a lovely, lovely Samhain tale!
    It is pleasing to have a Victorian Gentle-man who cares to find the broken heart & mend it’s pieces together. It was definitely written with feminine sentimentality, but that is rather nice.
    Thank you!🎃

  • @user89389
    @user89389 Рік тому +8

    I think this may be my new favorite story. I love spooky stories with haunting endings, but this was just very sweet.
    I loved it how Edgar wasn't your typical skeptical-logical man of science who believes in no old wives' tales, until coming face-to-face with a ghost, and then getting terrified. I loved it that he was a tough guy, not afraid of a little rain or a little work, willing to move into a haunted house by himself without shrugging off the rumors, but still with a heart of gold and an open mind.
    I really liked it that the boy's eagerness and sadness (that he noticed, bravo Edgar) moved him so much, that he had to get to the bottom of the whole thing instead of ignoring him. He could have ignored the boy, clearly, he meant no harm to anyone, he was just looking. But he didn't. He went above and beyond to make him happy. And the boy seemed to understand that, too.
    I loved it how the little boy was able to see his sister that he yearned for so much. I loved it how he was able to become calm and happy, but he didn't have to move on and disappear, he was allowed to stay and be with his sister, watch her smile and live. And as the will was discovered, everything fell back into its rightful place. The little boy on his sister's side, Mary in her house with the money she was supposed to get, and Edgar next to Mary, because he clearly earned that place.
    Unlike stories such as Shalken the Painter and The Shadow in the Corner, this one didn't leave me with a sour taste in my mouth. What a pleasant tale. Thank you for bringing it to us.

    • @RiaLake
      @RiaLake Рік тому

      Spoiler Alert!

    • @user89389
      @user89389 Рік тому

      @@RiaLake Not quite, you have to open up the comment before it's revealed what happens! :)

  • @namrathaprasad2954
    @namrathaprasad2954 Рік тому +4

    This story is so so beautiful....Poor kind Georgie....worthy of heaven....
    Glad...he found his peace at last!

  • @crowleythedemoncat
    @crowleythedemoncat Рік тому +23

    Simon, you present us with such treasures. A wonderful story brilliantly performed. Thank you ever so much.

  • @SpuktasticAudio
    @SpuktasticAudio Рік тому +58

    Oh, Simon. This is just perfection! How beautifully rendered and utterly engaging. And such a beautiful, edifying story. Bravo! ❤

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +5

      Thanks so much Bob, very glad to know you enjoyed it!

    • @charliesmith_
      @charliesmith_ Рік тому +2

      Played it 4 times over today. It's beautiful. Always wanted to meet me that one Mr.Stainton. a rough but *true,* steady fellow with a big, noble gentle, heart 💜xxx

  • @cnkclark
    @cnkclark Рік тому +14

    Oh that outro with Moonlight Sonata was the crowning touch to close out an exquisitely human ghost story for Halloween. Bravo!

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +3

      Glad you liked it! It felt an appropriate piece...

    • @paeganshadow
      @paeganshadow 4 місяці тому

      My favourite story, with my favourite sonata. Bravo and ty xx

  • @LaZoucheCustomshop
    @LaZoucheCustomshop Рік тому +22

    Brings a tear to the eye of even such as I, I thank you for such an engaging story and one that now is a favourite.

  • @hellodave1168
    @hellodave1168 Рік тому +6

    And, after all these years, I have a new favorite ghost story..thank you.

  • @mijiyoon5575
    @mijiyoon5575 Рік тому +5

    Thank You *Simon* this was generous of you

  • @beverlyadams7205
    @beverlyadams7205 Рік тому +27

    I didn’t expect to be so deeply touched by one of your performances. A beautiful story, perfect for Halloween, performed with perfection. Thank you Simon.

  • @rneustel388
    @rneustel388 Рік тому +2

    This has always been my favorite ghost story, because it’s so much more than just a ghost story. All it took was one man that could see with his heart, and wasn’t willing to stop until he had righted a grievous wrong. Thank you so much for this beautiful narration. Wishing you a very merry Christmas!!

  • @shirleypearl2166
    @shirleypearl2166 Рік тому +16

    Such good writing great strong characters a kind ruff diamond of a man but kind. and a gentle ghost very much brought to life with Simons narrative thank u 💜🙏

  • @jenford7078
    @jenford7078 Рік тому +5

    What a sweet ending.

  • @gunners8487
    @gunners8487 Рік тому +6

    Honestly, there's no narrator quite like you. A huge thanks for all you do, your work is appreciated.

  • @sugarfalls1
    @sugarfalls1 Рік тому +21

    A ghost story on Halloween?! I'd say that's perfect! Thanks, Simon! 💕💕👍👍🤩🤩What a touching ending!

  • @martiwilliams4592
    @martiwilliams4592 Рік тому +4

    Very intertaining . I enjoyed your presentation very much! Thank you!!!!!

  • @cousinsister69
    @cousinsister69 Рік тому +3

    Just wonderful.

  • @sarahperks8226
    @sarahperks8226 Рік тому +8

    Lovely Simon 🥰 have you considered doing a ambient story with a fire place and thunderstorm sounds that would be divine,so much love 💞

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +6

      Thanks for the suggestion Sarah. I've not tried anything along those lines as yet, but I have heard it's becoming quite popular. I'm a bit old-school and traditionally audio books don't have anything other than the voice reading and sound effects are, or certainly used to be, discouraged. Perhaps I'll try it sometime as an optional extra, with some stories which are also available to listen to unadorned for those who prefer that.

  • @susansherlock6934
    @susansherlock6934 Рік тому +6

    A very emotional ghost story - thank you.

  • @stephaniealeman8522
    @stephaniealeman8522 Рік тому +16

    How lovely to have chapters of your voice(s) in this longer story! I love the way you say “black beetles” in this tale with a somewhat dubious ending…he could do right by that orphan child by letting her have her 10,000 pounds and not immediately having to marry her! 🙂

    • @holymags2495
      @holymags2495 Рік тому +4

      But at the time this story was written the only option open to women for a secure future was to marry and in this case she was lucky to find such a kind man who loved her.

    • @saphiire0072
      @saphiire0072 Рік тому +1

      Don’t spoil the ending 😭

    • @LazyIRanch
      @LazyIRanch Рік тому

      @@saphiire0072 I never read the comments before listening to the stories, because someone always drops spoilers.

    • @timd4524
      @timd4524 Рік тому

      Wasn't it amazing. I was so engrossed in the story, I forgot it was Simon by himself. A breath of wonderful civility.

    • @tammyhanlon3057
      @tammyhanlon3057 Рік тому

      Hmm . Lol, I presumed "the new owner" and the orphan were of a similar age and attraction and fell in love. Aren't stories great! Different for each. And Simon is so very good at telling stories.
      Blessings to you and yours.

  • @raychandler2757
    @raychandler2757 Рік тому +4

    The author seemed well aware of the pain and loneliness of unfulfilled childhood.

  • @wyominghome4857
    @wyominghome4857 Рік тому +4

    What a sweet ending, and a delightful change after all the shrieking and terror of most ghost stories.

  • @nickjames205
    @nickjames205 Рік тому +19

    I never knew I could appreciate a channel so much. You are so talented! Thank you

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      What a lovely comment, thanks Nick!

    • @beverlyadams7205
      @beverlyadams7205 Рік тому +2

      Me too!

    • @Bambisgf77
      @Bambisgf77 Рік тому

      @@BitesizedAudio I want to echo this sentiment dear Simon. Thank you for years of listening enjoyment. Your gift of storytelling is one that must be shared.

  • @caroleastwood9386
    @caroleastwood9386 Рік тому +4

    How Wonderful Simon!

  • @Kojoanna
    @Kojoanna Рік тому +3

    A good story, thanks

  • @mjrchapin
    @mjrchapin Рік тому +18

    Sad but lovely and inspiring story. So many of these truly gifted female authors are obscure, especially in the US. Thank you for sharing them!

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +6

      Charlotte's work certainly does seem to have fallen into obscurity, but I enjoy digging out these neglected ones

  • @Boogie_the_cat
    @Boogie_the_cat Рік тому +7

    Perfect timing, perfect narration! Keep up the good work. Thanks Simon.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      Thanks so much for the support Kitty, much appreciated

  • @ericdoran24
    @ericdoran24 Рік тому +9

    What a wonderful story and so exquisitely read.
    Thank you for sharing.

  • @nerdsforfreedom2794
    @nerdsforfreedom2794 Рік тому +3

    Enjoyed this story and the reading very much. Thank you

  • @BF-up5xw
    @BF-up5xw Рік тому +1

    Gosh, how lovely! And with a real investigation too; I love it when ghost stories and mysteries are married.

  • @JD-cw4qg
    @JD-cw4qg Рік тому +2

    aww what a superb tale, absolutely love this story and have listened to it 3 times already. I actually felt quite emotional at the end. Beautifully narrated Simon. Perfect.

  • @Bambisgf77
    @Bambisgf77 Рік тому +1

    Simon, this addition to your catalog is definitely in my top 3 favorites. The music is the icing on the cake! It’s such soothing addition that also sets the tone. Thanks for another wonderful tale. Hope all is well with you & yours!

  • @lizpride9960
    @lizpride9960 Рік тому +6

    Quite novel that the protagonist (Mr Stainton) at no point experienced fear at the sight of the ghost (so neither do we as the audience), but only acceptance and compassionate curiosity. The fear (for all of us) comes during his investigation of past events-fear that the boy's death was brought about by foul play. A rather different construct for a ghost story. Beautifully told by the incomparable Mr Stanhope, as always.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +2

      Thanks Liz - yes, it's an interesting structure. The same author uses a slightly similar idea in 'Nut Bush Farm', a blend of ghost story and detective story, both very popular genres at the time.

  • @simone222
    @simone222 Рік тому +38

    A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to stay for the night at a very old mansion in the English countryside, but I respectfully declined and took the train back to London. Stories such as this, I always had in the drawers of my mind. Plus, I really believe old houses, grand and small, are not only rich in history but also in mystery. This is most perfect for Halloween. Thank you Simon and Thank you again for a brightline on a female horror author. Happy Halloween to you and all.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +13

      Thanks Simone, same to you. I think I'd've been tempted to accept the invitation!

    • @catrinlewis939
      @catrinlewis939 Рік тому +4

      @@BitesizedAudio I most certainly would have, provided I didn't have other obligations. But I've stayed BnB in a 1400s manor house in Shropshire (reputed to be haunted, but I wasn't treated to any phenomena) and in a house in Kent incorporating the ruins of a 12th century abbey. So an offer such as Simone mentions above would be jam to me.

    • @StalinLovsMsmZioglowfagz
      @StalinLovsMsmZioglowfagz Рік тому +3

      @@catrinlewis939 No kidding, me too. I’ve had VERY strange things happen to me and my (now deceased) fiancé just after college on Coronado Island, by the haunted Hotel Del Coronado.
      Cheers

    • @LazyIRanch
      @LazyIRanch Рік тому +2

      I would have taken that offer! I don't really believe in ghosts, but I certainly have no proof that they DON'T exist.
      I've stayed several times at an old hotel in Texas built in 1911 (I think). The Von Minden has a movie theater in the same building, and to my delight, the owner took us through a locked door down a dark, dusty hallway that lead to the projector room, used by employees back in the day who worked in the hotel, too. Even though the theater was still in limited operation, everything in that place looked so old, and dusty. They only played movies once a week.
      He let us explore the place and take pics. I had my 9 year old son sit in a front row seat and took a photo from the stage looking towards the audience. When I got home I uploaded the pics to my computer so we could see them on a bigger screen. When I got to that pic, my son pointed at what looked like several small oval shapes just over several the seats behind him. I enlarged the image, and we gasped because those spots looked like heads with faces! Now I know it was just a case of pareidolia caused by the dust particles that probably produced that effect, but it was very weird all the same.

    • @simone222
      @simone222 Рік тому +3

      @@LazyIRanchThat offer was from my former employer, a milady, whom I haven't seen for quite some time. I was visiting England from the Philippines after 3 yrs. Although I worked for her mainly at her modern house in London, her family has minor aristocratic lineage which explains the several old mansions in the countryside. I'm a hypersensitive who sometimes senses the otherwordly. But my nose works better than my eyes. I can sometimes smell if a place is jinxed. At my condominium unit at a historic site in Manila almost 2 decades ago, I saw my first apparition, it was a lady garbed in ancient raiments that passed in front of my tv set one late evening. Thank you so much for sharing the fantastic experience you have had. I agree that sometimes it's just a case of pareidolia and/or dust particles messing up with the camera. When I saw the ghost, I thought of the same thing to calm my nerves, that my eyes were simply playing a trick since I was tired after a long day. Have a wonderful evening.

  • @lauralaladarling3775
    @lauralaladarling3775 Рік тому +1

    Hello Simon, Thank you so much for bringing such a wonderful atmosphere in your splendid narration to this sad but heartening end of Charlotte Riddel. As the new owner of Walnut-Tree-house it was a great relief that the horrendously neglected, sad little boy found his beloved sister, at last, to be able to rest in peace. Bravo. Xxxx

  • @angelachouinard4581
    @angelachouinard4581 Рік тому +5

    Thank you Simon. It's a dark rainy Halloween night. I'm curled up with the cats and thrilled to have a nice ghost story to listen to. Just let me turn off the lights......

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      Sounds very cosy! Thanks Angela, I hope you enjoy it

  • @krishnasen397
    @krishnasen397 Рік тому +1

    Beautiful story. So satisfying. I had tears in my eyes as the story came to an end.
    All credit to you Mr Simon. Your narration brought the story to life.
    Thanks and God bless

  • @sharonwhiteley6510
    @sharonwhiteley6510 Рік тому +3

    What a charming story. Thank you.

  • @ChristopherStump
    @ChristopherStump Рік тому +4

    What a sad and melancholy little story, Simon. Thank you once again.

  • @davidbailey4404
    @davidbailey4404 Рік тому +7

    My thanks, Simon, for this Halloween treat.
    A beautiful story, thoughtfully read. I'm afraid that my house is in a neighborhood
    passed over by trick-or-treaters, and I haven't been to a Hallowe'en party for years. Fortunately your story saved the day for me.
    I lean toward horrific ghost tales, but sometimes I do enjoy a sympathetic ghost, a touch of sentiment, and a pleasant ending, which you've provided in abundance. Many thanks, and a happy Hallowe'en to you!

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      Thanks David. Yes, not the scariest ghost story for Halloween, but I've done a fair few hair-raising ones recently and it's good to mix it up a bit!

  • @emmahardesty4330
    @emmahardesty4330 Рік тому +2

    Sweet story, good literature, offering much to ponder. Thank you for your excellent reading.

  • @jimmillward3505
    @jimmillward3505 Рік тому +4

    absolutely EPIC Simon great story so well read. Thank you

  • @possumaintdead
    @possumaintdead Рік тому +5

    Thank you so much Simon for digging out these forgotten gems! I particularly enjoyed this one, and plan to listen to it again at Christmas!

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      You're most welcome Nancy, glad to know you enjoyed it!

  • @michaeldonahoo461
    @michaeldonahoo461 Рік тому +4

    A beautiful story. A joy to listen too. It was uplifting, and in these times anything that is uplifting is worthwhile! I thank for the story and the fine performance!

  • @TheSilvercue
    @TheSilvercue Рік тому +2

    Looking forward to this tonight…on Halloween.

  • @tomatoangel1
    @tomatoangel1 Рік тому +4

    So sweet and poignant. ❤❤

  • @TedaR
    @TedaR Рік тому +2

    So lovely to see you, handsome 😊. Love the intro music. I'm always amazed by all the extras you put in. So much work!
    Enjoyed this, well done as always!
    Thanks for all you do! 👏👍😘

  • @LadyEng
    @LadyEng Рік тому +3

    Yessssss! Happy Halloween!!

  • @pariscribe5245
    @pariscribe5245 Рік тому +1

    What a treat ! When one gets both you and a charming story !

  • @alliekattlopez5535
    @alliekattlopez5535 Рік тому +6

    Thank you, you made my Halloween amazing.
    Thank you.🖤🧡🖤🧡

  • @blixten2928
    @blixten2928 Рік тому

    Can listen to this again and again. You have the BEST style and voice for these "Victorian" tales. I feel transported into another world. You put so much work into these. It is APPRECIATED.

  • @garry2893
    @garry2893 Рік тому +1

    Of all the great stories you have read over the years this is my favorite. I’d bet Dickens was envious of this wonderful story. Thank you!

  • @elizah2093
    @elizah2093 Рік тому +2

    What an excellent story. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you.

  • @rosiemcnaughton9933
    @rosiemcnaughton9933 Рік тому +13

    Great ghost story, skillfully rendered as always! Thank you. Happy Halloween 👹💀👻🎃.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      Thanks Rosie, appreciated. Happy Halloween to you too

  • @donnasmall2172
    @donnasmall2172 Рік тому +2

    Thank you so much for your wonderful stories.

  • @scoutrifle6827
    @scoutrifle6827 Рік тому +3

    Just INCREDIBLY well done-so enjoyable. Thank you, Simon!

  • @LadyBronwynn1400
    @LadyBronwynn1400 Рік тому +1

    I listen to your stories over and over. I love the way you correctly emphasize where it should be. Your voice is so calming and it puts me in the story itself. Thank you so much. 💓

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      You're most welcome. Thank you for your kind comments! 😊

  • @hannahreynolds7611
    @hannahreynolds7611 Рік тому +10

    So what comes after Walnut? Hazel or Chestnut? Was she a prolific writer with regular stories in journals? I do hope there's more to come from her - and beautifully read by our Simon, too.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +5

      Yes indeed, this and Nut Bush Farm have more than a few elements in common, aside from the titles I think. Glad to know you enjoyed it Hannah

  • @annikee5925
    @annikee5925 Рік тому +1

    Absolutely lovely, Simon. Thank you.

  • @blixten2928
    @blixten2928 Рік тому +1

    So beautifully narrated, such a fun story!

  • @synesthete23
    @synesthete23 Рік тому +1

    A poignant story superbly told. Thank you Simon 🎩

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      Appreciated, thanks @synesthete23, glad to know you enjoyed it

  • @hopefull2070
    @hopefull2070 Рік тому +5

    My Halloween bedtime narration is just perfect 🎃🖤🎃 Thank you Simon.

  • @jmbrinck
    @jmbrinck 9 місяців тому

    Thank you, Simon Stanhope, for your evocative narration of this exquisite story. You are master of your craft and your audio collection is a treasure.

  • @patriciajrs46
    @patriciajrs46 Рік тому

    Such a delightful way to spend over an hour! Thank you, Simon for lighting up waiting in the duration of dialysis for my husband.
    I wish you joy of your inheritance. I love words. I love the way things are written. Thank you.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      You're welcome Patricia. Best wishes to you and your husband

  • @exileinderby51
    @exileinderby51 Рік тому +1

    This was a wonderful story by Ms Riddell, thank you for your narration.

  • @willamsandell1082
    @willamsandell1082 Рік тому +1

    Wow! What a great story. I think it’s my favorite out of the dozens I’ve listened to …thank you

  • @nickstone3113
    @nickstone3113 5 місяців тому

    Excellent story well read. Why is it that Victorian era ghost stories are the best that Hollywood can never equal. ? I know why. Beautifully read.

  • @shirleynarsi
    @shirleynarsi Рік тому

    This story and the way you narrated it was magical. What started by chilling me in the middle of the night ended bringing a tear to my eye. A lovely tale and one of your best performances. Great job Simon.

  • @Hazel_Fox22
    @Hazel_Fox22 Рік тому +1

    Such a lovely story! Thank you, Mr. Simon, for a restful hour.

  • @1x0en
    @1x0en Рік тому

    Another wonderful, evocative story, beautifully read by the peerless Mr. Stanhope. Thank you a thousand times over.

  • @feralbluee
    @feralbluee Рік тому +8

    what a wonderful story - a truly human story. there Are good and intelligent people in the world. and you read with good feelings ( wish i were better with words, sometimes i sound so simple minded - argh! :)
    ghost stories need not be ugly. although i do like it if a ghost gets revenge. if it’s going to be somewhat gruesome, that’s the way it needs to go. thanks so much and hope you had a fun Samhain :) 🎃🌻

  • @shirleypearl2166
    @shirleypearl2166 Рік тому +5

    Happy Halloween 🎃 💜

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      Same to you!

    • @kathleenhoffmanz4448
      @kathleenhoffmanz4448 Рік тому +1

      What a wonderful story full of sweetness and kindness. From a house of horror to a home of love - all with the same child. May we all find such peace

    • @shirleypearl2166
      @shirleypearl2166 Рік тому

      @@kathleenhoffmanz4448 yes it would b .that's what the great thing about a story u can create happy endings don't u think .💜

  • @klausehrhardt4481
    @klausehrhardt4481 7 місяців тому

    Touching story. More truth in it than people would usually tell or admit. Those bonds really exist and I am pretty sure people would lead a more joyufull and peacefull life by allowing themselves to ponder their fleeting exixstence on earth under these eternal perspective. Bravo.

  • @lisawhite-pagano3455
    @lisawhite-pagano3455 Рік тому

    Such a sad story. I found myself forgetting that it was a story and my heart broke for that little boy. I hope you do more stories like this one.

  • @paeganshadow
    @paeganshadow 3 місяці тому

    I've got to say Simon ( and I say a lot if you read ALL of my comments, but your voice REALLY does bring these characters to life, I have heard everything you have put up to date ( some more than 10 times hahha) not once can I say " oh he did that voice for such and such" each is as different as each character from each book... amazing. Thank you for your hard work xx

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  3 місяці тому

      That's very kind of you to say, thank you so much!

    • @paeganshadow
      @paeganshadow 3 місяці тому

      @BitesizedAudio my pleasure, and I mean that most sincerely xx

  • @joeharoutunian1805
    @joeharoutunian1805 Рік тому

    A different kind of ghost story, but a more human and meaningful one than many. The epitome of impossible wish fulfillment connection between this side and the other. Lovely and beautifully presented.

  • @user-jd4hm1fo6g
    @user-jd4hm1fo6g 28 днів тому

    I was surprised and heartened to find that I could afford to become a member of this channel and show my appreciation to Simon as well as enjoy the perks that come with the membership. Thank you, Simon. A workman is worthy of his pay and I will contribute more as soon as I am able to. I like to read the comments section and am sure that many others would join too if they knew.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  27 днів тому +1

      Thanks for your support Nicky, it's much appreciated. I hope you enjoy some of the bonus stories (do let me know if you have any problems finding them)

    • @user-jd4hm1fo6g
      @user-jd4hm1fo6g 23 дні тому

      @BitesizedAudio I just wish I could support you more. You truly deserve more. I was hoping that by commenting, it would raise awareness to other subscribers that they could show their appreciation by joining your channel. Thank you, I've had hours and hours of quality entertainment, all for the price of a packet of polo mints..

  • @GeorgeBletchly
    @GeorgeBletchly 10 місяців тому

    This is a wonderful series. Fine stories by authors who might otherwise have fallen into obscurity, beautifully read by Simon Stanhope. Perfect late night listening.

  • @debjuch1747
    @debjuch1747 Рік тому +1

    Just the most beautiful story, and so masterful with suspense, horror, heroism, luck, romance, and gratitude. I think I heard, in Simon's voice, a different depth than at other times. Such an enjoyable experience --though I needed a hanky

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому +1

      So glad to know you enjoyed it, thank you Deb

    • @debjuch1747
      @debjuch1747 Рік тому

      Still moved, interested,and entertained and this is probably eight or nine times listening to it. So, well, that's a good one!

  • @evelynroe7648
    @evelynroe7648 7 місяців тому

    I can simply echo the wonderful comments of others who have expressed their thanks to you. So glad I found you. Looking forward to more listening. Your narration is superb.

  • @mochawitch
    @mochawitch Рік тому +5

    That was lovely ❤️❤️

  • @sueatkinson3553
    @sueatkinson3553 Рік тому +1

    Absolutely brilliant Simon. I loved this one, perfectly and sensitively enunciated as always. Thanks for your work.

  • @bluegreenglue6565
    @bluegreenglue6565 Рік тому +1

    What a sweet ghost story, very satisfying. Thank you so much.

  • @Rossion64
    @Rossion64 Рік тому +1

    Just getting to listen to this now. She wrote great stories

  • @timd4524
    @timd4524 Рік тому +1

    Wonderful reading Simon. At times I forget it's just yourself lol. What a beautiful story. Thank you.

  • @beccadaviiidd
    @beccadaviiidd Рік тому

    I actually love how sweet this story turned out to be! I was anticipating being scared, but I was very pleasantly surprised ❤️ 10/10 for an unexpectedly wholesome ghost story

  • @stephaniestevenson6335
    @stephaniestevenson6335 Рік тому

    I absolutely loved this story! Your narration actually made me tear up at one point. A new story for me, thank you again!

  • @okesoncharlie
    @okesoncharlie Рік тому +1

    Perfect Hallowe'en/Birthday present !! A ghost story for bedtime after midnight on Hallowe'en. Especially an old English story with an old English country house. Thank you so much, Simon. 👍👏

  • @lparsons6977
    @lparsons6977 Рік тому +1

    What a wonderful, sweet story! ❤

  • @mariamcgee4462
    @mariamcgee4462 Рік тому

    Definitely one of my favourite stories. I really liked the character of Edgar.

  • @itallia666
    @itallia666 Рік тому +2

    How very very charming, i adore all the Victorian & Edwardian stories, especially the ones of supernatural content.
    This story was wonderful, just the kind of story to restore ones
    Natural joy & unwavering belief in the goodness of people who unselfishly put themselves out to mend the balance & harmony & thus ending someones search for
    Heartfelt love & the rejoining of twin souls
    I think a fine & just reward for the unlikely hero of this story, to have found love for himself & being, in a way the key to the completion of peace to the resting of a heartbroken soul & being the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle.
    Thank you so much, Simon, your inimitable style in reading us these wonderful tales makes the pleasure doubly rewarding.
    Kind Regards
    🇬🇧👧

  • @emmanuelpower2439
    @emmanuelpower2439 Рік тому +1

    Listened to several audios so far, and i love the way you read. Perfectly paced. Thank you thank you thank you. Emmanuel.

    • @BitesizedAudio
      @BitesizedAudio  Рік тому

      You're very welcome. Thanks for listening Emmanuel

  • @bonesmccoy6803
    @bonesmccoy6803 2 місяці тому

    Beautiful story, beautifully read. Nearly brought a tear to my eye. Thank you sir. God bless you.

  • @sirbimsaranadirangaalmedaa403
    @sirbimsaranadirangaalmedaa403 Рік тому +3

    As far as I'm concerned everything is better in your today's video the usual presenting methodology has returned to the stage after some couple of Halloween episodes. Thank you for the video! I'm highly appreciating your courage of sharing classical stories with the people.

  • @chimera8421
    @chimera8421 Рік тому +1

    Perfect - as usual. Thank you Simon.

  • @terryleetv1
    @terryleetv1 Рік тому +1

    Really lovely story Simon. Best you’ve ever done ❤