The Barrister's Story, being the Decision of Sir
The novel revolves around a barrister who becomes embroiled in a complex case involving a murder trial. The story explores themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of human nature through the eyes of the barrister. As the trial unfolds, the barrister's own moral compass is tested, leading to a dramatic conclusion that challenges societal norms.
By H.C. McNeile · First published 1920 · Genre: Mystery, Drama, Crime · 7,543 words
First lines
"THIS morning," he began, leaning back in his chair and crossing his legs, "I mislaid my cigarette-case. I knew it was somewhere in the study, but find it I could not. Finally, having searched all over my writing table, I rang the bell, and somewhat irritably demanded its immediate production. The butler stepped forward and lifted it up from the centre of the blotting pad, where it had been the whole time, literally under my nose. What peculiar temporary kink in the brain had prevented my noticing the very thing I was looking for, when it was lying in the most conspicuous place in which it could possibly have been, I don't know. I leave that to the Doctor. But the point of my parable is this-it decided in my mind the story with which I should bore you fellows to-night."
What this Textopian page supports
The Barrister's Story, being the Decision of Sir Edward Shoreham is listed on Textopian as a short story by H.C. McNeile, dated 1920 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: H.C. McNeile
- Date: 1920 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Mystery, Drama, Crime, Legal Fiction, Romance
- Length: 7,543 words
- Structure: 1 section, 160 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Barrister's Story, being the Decision of Sir Edward Shoreham by H.C. McNeile
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
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Genres
- Mystery — The plot revolves around a murder mystery with a focus on uncovering the truth behind a suspicious death.
- Drama — The story explores intense personal and emotional conflicts, particularly in relationships and moral dilemmas.
- Crime — The narrative involves criminal acts, specifically murder, and the legal implications surrounding them.
- Legal Fiction — The story features a barrister and a judge, with significant focus on legal proceedings and justice.
Tags
Lawyer's Fiction · Courtroom Drama · English Literature · Classic Novel · Mystery Thriller · Legal Thriller · British Fiction · 19th Century Literature · Social Commentary · Class Satire · Morality Tale · Justice System Critique