The Ordeal of Philip Yale Drew: A Real Life Murder Melodrama in Three Acts

G. G. Harrap, 1972. Hardcover. Fair/poor. Fair Hardback in well rubbed dustwrapper. Owner's name in neat had to f.e.p. “The story of how a popular actor suddenly found himself the number one suspect in the murder of a Reading tobacconist is both criminologically important and humanly fascinating. Important because the inquest took such a form that the resulting public outcry led to Parliamentary action against the growing and legally unsatisfactory process of ‘trial by coroner’. Fascinating because it is a story of triumph and suffering swaddled in the richly nostalgic atmosphere of the old theatre. The verdict was greeted by scenes of wild rejoicing. Thousands of people lined Drew’s route from the coroner’s court to his hotel, cheering, weeping and showering flowers on their hero of the moment. But that October day in 1929 was the beginning of the end for the actor. From then on his fortunes went steadily downwards until, before his death — alone and destitute — he was reduced to selling newspapers outside those very theatres where he had once starred.” Photo on request. We bulk ship if you buy lots of books from us, as we are currently having a massive clearance. NOTE: Non-European shipments will be by SURFACE MAIL only.