Classics Out Loud

Mr. Utterson, the lawyer of Dr. Jekyll, visits his friend's laboratory for the first time and discovers a sense of strangeness that makes him uncomfortable. Dr. Jekyll looks deathly ill and confesses to his friend that he has received a letter that he is not sure he should show to the police. The letter is signed by Edward Hyde, who claims to have repaid Dr. Jekyll unworthily for a thousand generosities but assures him of his safety. Utterson is surprised by Dr. Jekyll's selfishness and relieved that Hyde is no longer a threat, but he is also suspicious about the letter and begins to consider the possibility of a murder plot against Dr. Jekyll.

This chapter is full of tension, mystery, and intrigue, making it a must-listen for fans of classic horror and suspense. The vivid descriptions of the laboratory, the gaunt and silent theatre, and the dingy, windowless building will transport listeners to the scene and keep them on the edge of their seats. The dialogue between Utterson and Dr. Jekyll is also masterfully written, with each character revealing more about themselves and their relationship to Hyde as the conversation unfolds. Whether you are a fan of the novella or new to the story, this podcast episode is sure to leave you captivated and wanting more.

Mary wakes up to a new day and meets Martha, a young housemaid. As they talk, Mary starts to learn about the moor and the gardens surrounding the house. Martha tells Mary about her brother Dickon, who has a special connection with the animals on the moor. Mary becomes curious about the locked garden and its mysterious history.
She explores the other gardens and meets Ben Weatherstaff, an old gardener, who tells her more about the robin redbreast that has taken a liking to her. Mary's curiosity about the locked garden grows, but Ben tells her there is no door to be found. Mary begins a friendship with the little bird, and starts to feel less lonely and becomes determined to find the entrance to the secret garden.

In this transformative chapter, we witness the extraordinary power of friendship where even the most stubborn hearts find solace. After Colin's dramatic night, it is surprising to find that Mary, the once angry and bitter young girl, has become the nurturing presence he so desperately needs. Through the gentle nudging of Martha, she finds herself visiting Colin and opening the door to sharing her precious secret.
As with most growth, this chapter is filled with the irresistible charm of the Yorkshire dialect. Through Mary's newfound passion for speaking like her beloved friends, Martha and Dickon, she brings joy and laughter to Colin, who for the first time in his life, finds himself exploring the idea of truly connecting with another human being.
In this beautifully woven tapestry of emotion and revelation, Mary summons the courage to confide in Colin about her hidden refuge, the secret garden, and plots with determination to share the place where she found healing for her soul. In the midst of flourishing greenery, curious blue-eyed foxes, wise crows, and lively little squirrels, the children embark on a journey of discovery and healing.

As the enchanting narrative continues to weave its tapestry of emotions and secrets, a subtle yet profound lesson emerges – that there is no greater connection between two souls than the love and appreciation they share for the wondrous beauty that the world holds. Through the delightful conversations between Mary, Colin, and the seemingly magic Dickon, we come to understand that the heart truly thrives in the presence of pure, sincere friendship and that there is an inexplicable healing power in the care and nurturing of the natural world.
In the midst of all the joy and wonder, we are reminded of the fragility of life as we follow the daily struggles of Colin, who so desperately wants to escape the confines of his illness and experience the world beyond his secluded chamber. Yet, with every visit from Mary and the ever-growing prospect of experiencing the secret garden for himself, we witness a transformation in his spirit, kindling a fire of healing and hope.
As the garden continues to unfold and unfurl its gifts to our young protagonists, we cannot help but share in their delight of witnessing the world come alive with color, sound, and life. In this remarkable chapter, we embark, hand in hand, with Mary, Colin, and Dickon, on a journey of discovery, growth, and the healing power of friendship and nature's magic.

Our protagonist finally finds a moment to speak privately with Mrs. Grose about the unsettling events unfolding at the estate. As we join them on the terrace, the children are playing nearby, seemingly innocent and unaware of the dark secrets held within the house. But how much do they truly know?
Our protagonist begins to share her harrowing experiences from the previous night, and as she does so, we witness a nerve-wracking conversation between her and young Miles. What is the truth behind the children's midnight adventures, and what will become of our governess as she tries to unravel this tangled web of mystery and deception?