The Riddle of the 5.28 | Thomas W. Hanshew | A Bitesized Audiobook

[@BitesizedAudio]

Story begins at: 00:01:20 As the packed 5.28 from London Bridge to Croydon steams into Anerley station, one compartment is seen to be in darkness. Inside the locked compartment the stationmaster discovers evidence of a baffling crime... A classic "locked room" railway mystery from 1910, featuring ex-criminal-turned-detective Hamilton Cleek. Some background information on the author and the story can be found in the video description. If you enjoyed this story, you may like to hear the "origin story" for the character of Hamilton Cleek, available here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kF60iqt9f7apkM0 Or for more stories featuring a wide range of classic detectives from the era, including Sherlock Holmes, Father Brown, Max Carrados, Loveday Brooke, Martin Hewitt, Dr. Thorndyke, and more, you may like to check out my Victorian and Edwardian Detective Stories podcast series: kzbin.info/aero/PLi95qAoufCZJMv5kcx_Is-ntdo4W8Wi0r

[@Frenchblue8]

Aha! The return of Hamilton Cleek!! I did find him extremely appealing in his moment of epiphany and I'm so happy to see that his intended life redirection was affirmed and his talents put to a far more beneficial purpose!

[@rupertgethin-u5p]

If anyone ever wonders if AI voices are acceptable. This gentleman resolves the argument. Rich ,clear diction,correctly paced.

[@worldhum]

Correct. Stanhope is ear candy. I can't listen to AI

[@alisonlaing7046]

Absolutely agree! There’s a vast difference between the energy of a real voice compared with the growing tragedy of using AI.

[@junekemp5646]

I hope Hugh Fraser’s voice is captured on AI (with pay to Mr Fraser).

[@cedarflame3070]

This is one of the best channels for listening to period pieces. This gentleman's voice is perfect! AI is never acceptable.

[@fiddlersthree8463]

@@junekemp5646Alas, no matter whose voice it is, AI is just that: artificial. No depth, no soul, rampant mispronunciations, idioms slaughtered by misplaced stress… Like listening to a song being read.

[@jodyharnish9104]

Simon, I love the way you use different accents for the characters! You are so talented.

[@TheSonsofFalstaff]

I was trying to find a word to describe you narration. The word 'sonorous' came to mind. I wasn't certain until I read the definition 'impressive in effect or style'. Definitely impressive in effect and definitely impressive in style.

[@TheHexCube]

Simon Stanhope, Greg Wagland, and Stephen Fry are the three of the very best voice talents that manage to keep me from giving up. Thank you all, from the bottom of my broken heart. ❤

[@sandraelder1101]

And Hugh Fraser for all things Christie!

[@TheHexCube]

@@sandraelder1101 Thank you for the heads-up!; not discovered Mr Fraser yet. So many more I'm sure too. Keep supporting our dear narrators my fellow listener! ❤🫂

[@TheHexCube]

@@sandraelder1101 Just heard a sneak preview of Mr Fraser, and Wow! a whole new avenue of delight thanks to you. He reminds me of a voice back from the 80's. Beautiful narration. I will look into his history and readings. Bless you and thank you again! X 🫂👍❤

[@sandraelder1101]

@@TheHexCube he does a really good Poirot too!

[@katiedotson704]

There is a difference between a narrator and a voice actor. Mr. Stanhope and others mentioned by @TheHexCube are the latter.

[@ruthhase-gutierrez9830]

Perfect timing, as always. I have a quilt to finish binding, and an hour is just about how long it will take me. I always hope for a story to listen to while I work on Sundays.

[@howdidiget]

oh goody! I was just regretting finishing your train mystery playlist. The only thing better than a locked room mystery is when the locked room that is also moving at the time.

[@ginabeena6757]

Excellent story! When they kept describing the little man with the dark mustache, I kept thinking Poirot was going to show up! 😂❤️

[@baruchben-david4196]

Hah! That didn't occur to me, but it's funny...

[@mariameere5807]

Hey Simon! Hope all is well with you! I have never heard this before (I am pretty sure) but it is great so far! I am leaving the comment now bc I love to listen to these while going to sleep, but often times the story is too exciting! Other times it’s perfect and relaxing and both are enjoyable! Thank you Simon, yours etc M ❤🌙❤️

[@charlottehackett6389]

So glad to have Hamilton Cleek back! Thank you, Simon!

[@j.kassai6283]

Your activity provides an invaluable possibility to learn the really beautiful English that still exists but, helas, is becoming very rear. Special thanks for this from a Hungarian learner of British English.

[@mfranssens]

“Alas, is becoming very rare” That was my effort to help you improve your English. Your comment was easily understood. Well done. I hope you get an opportunity to practice your English by visiting our country one day.

[@bea3693]

Thank you Simon, Great story as always. Can I just mention the clarity and tone used when reading. Ian unfortunately deaf and despite the hearing aids often spoken word can still sound muffled. So a big thank you for your presentation. I get very frustrated by many audios. You are my favourite and I listen every night. It's lovely that you find time to. do these audios along with other work.

[@markrossow6303]

Clear Enunciation !

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thank you for your kind comments and feedback, I'm glad to know you enjoy them

[@taliabee8661]

What a lovely way to finish the weekend! Thank you so very much 😀♥️

[@tammyhanlon3057]

Oh my goodness!! I am excited to hear this. I shared your last sonnet with my 17 year old nephew. I got the usual kid whining about "poetry is stupid" He had to listen three times and I saw him get it. He said "that guy has a lady that most guys think is homely!" ( I don't know if you know Americans mean plain or dowdy, not comfortable as British folks do) Thank you so much. Life is filled with opportunities to teach.

[@markrossow6303]

Yep.

[@BitesizedAudio]

How wonderful, thanks for sharing Tammy

[@annagettings4675]

Yay! Another Mr Hamilton Cleek of the many faces! Good luck to him in his quest for redemption and love. Wonderful Simon!, Thank you.

[@LadyBronwynn1400]

I was so glad to see this notification. Thank you so much, Simon. You made my Sunday night.

[@neko-chan6145]

love the descriptions about the authors. i havent heard of many of them. thank you for making these great little stories available to a new audience

[@caroleastwood9386]

Yes you have made MY Sundsy evening too Simon! How scrumptious I love train mysteries

[@qingma7663]

Dearest Simon, how delighted to hear your outstanding narration again! I listen some old one again and again when I am waiting for a new one coming . Such a comfort to listen to your voice and story whatever you play❤

[@jacquelineharrod6386]

My usual route from London Bridge! This adds even greater relish to my enjoyment. Thank you so much for recording this rare gem.😊

[@BitesizedAudio]

Ah yes, it always adds something extra when you know the scenery... I used to live on that line myself for a couple of years in the late 90s

[@Shineon83]

Oh, excellent-the sequel to “The Man who Called Himself Hamilton Cleek?” ….The main character ( not to mention his name ) were so memorable, I knew it couldn’t be coincidence …. I cannot wait to discover how he does treading the “straight and narrow”….

[@evelynrange7764]

Thank you so much 😊 literally can't sleep without listening to one of your stories 😅😊❤

[@snippycutwell9878]

When listening to you read I taste tea and smell coal smoke

[@dawnrowlands2408]

Ah wonderful. It's always a great evening when I can curl up with a cup of Horlicks and the soothing, dulcet tones of Mr Stanhope. Have a great week, sir.

[@consuelaofthenorth4768]

Thanks, Simon! Nice to have you back.

[@sophiaaudiobook]

"Such a convenient way to read a book while multitasking!

[@sandrapeach4990]

So glad you keep making the effort to find and upload these. Thank you

[@dodiekoehler]

Hey, Simon. I've never heard this one before. It was fun. As always, thank you very much!

[@malcolmbeven5152]

Just climbed into bed ,and seen this Simon,so glad always enjoy your narration, keep them coming 👍😎👌

[@Angelious2]

Excellent! A new detective audiobook. Thanks 😊

[@mijiyoon5575]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ an hour long too!!!! Woot! Woot! Thanks much *Simon* 👍👍👍👍👍

[@Bambisgf77]

Whoooo hooo! Home sick with sinus infection and now an upload from BSAC! 🎉feeling a bit better already!

[@BitesizedAudio]

Sorry to hear you're under the weather, get well soon!

[@Bambisgf77]

Thank you Simon, you are very kind. As always great performance!

[@irenabevans3411]

Most enjoyable, beautifully read as ever, Thank You Simon, really appreciate your efforts in bringing long forgotten books, to a new audience, looking forward to your next offering❤

[@athenaathena1307]

Great performance. Thanks for sharing Simon 😊👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@gunners8487]

So good to have another take of yore from you. Thanks as always for breathing life into these tales.

[@baruchben-david4196]

Thank you, Simon, for the many enjoyable hours I've spent listening to your narrations.

[@BitesizedAudio]

Appreciated, thank you

[@helenswan705]

just beginning this. a new one for me! Thank you

[@marshathornburg4352]

Oh, a new story to look forward to! Thanks Simon😊

[@michaelmcgehee1]

Thank you Simon for your continued activity. You are a gem!

[@scm731]

Thank you, thank you, thank you! Such a nice surprise.

[@SholaT39]

My earliest catch at 10mins; been checking all weekend😅 Thank you @MrStanhope🙏🏾🫶🏾❤️

[@karenzak6627]

Another great story, thanks, Simon! I really enjoy learning of new detectives through your channel.

[@thurayya8905]

Wonderful! Thank you so much for a strong, clear, well-trained voice.

[@graciaschlafly7183]

Thanks so much for presenting a new story. I’ll totally gaining on you and have had to listen to some dreadful copycats while awaiting your new stories.

[@nickybaker1338]

I used to do that, but none of them are a patch on Simon are they? Gave up with no withdrawal symptoms👂😅🥰

[@BitesizedAudio]

Lots of AI copycats seem to be springing up at the moment, all rather depressing I think. But I'll keep going!

[@pisiata3651]

I ve missed you! And i always come back to you! You are one in a billion! You and your voice! Thank you!

[@JensLarsson-vi5py]

You are still the best in your field and am so glad to see you have a new (for me at least) story for us to delight in . Having been with you since you had around 5000 "members" am glad to begin listening to your new output , knowing that I have a certain delight awaiting me ... Yours faithfully, Jens aka PARISCRIBE !

[@BitesizedAudio]

Wonderful, thank you for your continued support!

[@JensLarsson-vi5py]

@@BitesizedAudio So deserved welcome !

[@crystal-zx4fe]

Absolutely fantastic! Thank you.

[@THEPAGEBURNER1979]

Simon with the save. Improving lubetube 1 story at a time😂😂

[@oliverbayley3509]

A ruddy good listen. Brilliantly and elegantly read. Well done, Simon.

[@ValerieAnnHorn-Ross-mx4cv]

🇬🇧 ( aka Itallia 666) Oh that was a splendid yarn indeed! I do love Railway Crime for some obscure reason & remember you have narrated quite a number of said crime genre. Can't think of his name but a young Reverend of the 1900s wrote some very good Railway crimes, which you have narrated, a Rev Peter ...? I've never heard of Thomas Handshew, did he write anything else? As convoluted as this tale was, it was perfectly logical, well thought out & excellently written. Nice to hear that a rotten old stinker came to a sticky wicket! I dare say there are still a few aristocrats of damnable & scurulous behaviour around today who need a swift seeing to! But not in a terminal manner, I may add! I still believe in Karma! I'm always transported to past times whenever you read these marvellous stories... Btw, did you know that there are some lovely words, that are slowly disappearing from the British language ? & the word Marvellous is one of them? Some Etomologist ( I do mean word origins not insects 🐞) on BBC Radio 4, some chap used to host a Marvellous programme ( during 2018) about Words & being in fashion & out. He lamented some Marvellous words were becoming obsolete. . Marvellous being one of them, tracing it's history to a very long usage.. We all remember a very young Queen Elizabeth 1st, saying, when informed her sister Queen Mary had died & now she was Queen, said.. " It is Marvellous, in our eyes" Who knew the word harkened back to 16th c. So, appalled that this Marvellous word could be lost, I've made it my duty to use it as much as is Marvellously possible... So here's hoping everyone who reads this will take my lead in the fight to retain the word MARVELLOUS .. Sorry to have overtaken your platform for a Stand Up For Failing Old Words Society.. I do believe that such a society exists... If anyone knows, PLEASE, Inform me! Thank You Simon! Marvellous & of the Highest Magnitude are your narrations Peace & Jolly Japes! 🇬🇧🙋

[@nickybaker1338]

I can think of some dwindling-in some cases extinct-words & phrases: "Ghastly" "By jove" "By George" "By Jupiter" "I say!" "By thunder" "Scoundrel" Putting "Why" at the beginning of a sentence- (which is a mystery to me) The tradition of having a "last cigar" or a pipe with a stiff drink of brandy, whisky or port whilst the ladies retire to the drawing room. A gentleman always having a revolver in his pocket-can you imagine? A male servant always referred to by his surname-rather lofty, but there we are, the aristocracy class had standards to uphold. I don't belong to a society for preserving such words, phrases or traditions, but if one exists, or becomes a thing, I shall be an enthusiastic member. 😊

[@ValerieAnnHorn-Ross-mx4cv]

@@nickybaker1338 Ah yes, but those phrases were primarily used by the upper classes. There are some words like Marvellous that really are in decline, words that were used, common place by all members of society. I can remember our local Blacksmith, back in the 1960s, who had a booming voice, used to always utter ... " Hell & Damnations" as his ' go to' expletive! Very old fashioned! Also I recall a friend from school back, ithen who would say, if they wanted you to go and look at something they drew your attention to .. " Cock a Snook at that" Also rarely heard these days! My Granny always said a curious adage to her normal farewell + it was " Toodle Pip & Sans Faire Ann" Obviously of French origin but she produced it San Fairy Ann, I still sometimes say goodbye with Granny's farewell. I wish I could remember the name of this chap who Hosted this British Language Origins on BBC Radio 4... I think he had a Jewish surname but could be wrong, it was a fascinating show. Anyway, Thank You for replying & your comments Peace 🇬🇧🙋

[@BitesizedAudio]

@ValerieAnnHorn-Ross-mx4cv Yes, the author wrote a lot more stories featuring this character... he was rather prolific, and I must confess I've not got around to reading all of them by any means. I've recorded one previously: the origin story which is titled 'The Man Who Called Himself Hamilton Cleek', which you'll find on the channel if you've not heard it already. Some more info about the author is available in the video description. Re the Radio 4 presenter: was that Michael Rosen? (Word of Mouth?)

[@ValerieAnnHorn-Ross-mx4cv]

@@BitesizedAudio Arrrggghh YES! Marvellous Yes, it was Michael Rosen... Bliss. I knew he had a Jewish surname but it had completely gone from my memory. I've so often wanted to listen to his radio series again, AND now I can. Thank You so much Simon, I really am grateful. I loved Mr Rosen's programmes, a true Wordsmith! Yes I did listen to the other Mr Handshew story about Mr Cleek. I think I shall re listen to that one. Id a pal at university who's Name, delightfully was Kamilla Kaliq, pronounced exactly like Camilla Cleek There's another fascinating subject, peoples surnames, I've come across some unbelievable ones in my Time! My absolute favourite is Suppilulliumas ( Soop ill looli oooh mas) I believe it's of royal connection from the Hittite Empire but is still Used as a name today Now! That IS a name. So grateful for your info on Michael Rosen Peace & Jelly Beans 🇬🇧🙋

[@elizah2093]

Ooh can’t wait to listen

[@MsLisautube]

How exciting - a new story.

[@zednotzee7]

I enjoyed that. Just the thing for just before going to bed ! Hopefully there are more Cleek stories to come.

[@leonaheraty3760]

Thank you Simon! 😊

[@jackiegould1569]

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this. It was the first time I have listened to your channel but it wont be the last - Thank you

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thanks for listening!

[@jackiegould1569]

@@BitesizedAudio It was genuinely My Pleasure 😁

[@mfranssens]

@​@@jackiegould1569 Listen to some of the back catalogue of videos. There’s a lot to enjoy in there.

[@jackiegould1569]

@@mfranssens I am

[@alanporteous-oi2hx]

Just found this. I've subscribed. And will be back night after night to listen. Thank you.

[@step7274]

This is great! I love stories like this, thank you Simon!

[@helenamcginty4920]

Re these audiobook channels. I am so pleased to be able support the artists who put in the hard work of reading aloud rather than some random person who does nothing but add music one way or another to get round paying copyright fees to the actual narrator. I note that the best narrators are all good actors.

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thank you Helena, much appreciated!

[@code-52]

Simon, your channel has become even more important to me. After two and half years, and two eye surgeries, I got more bad news. I will be legally blind. But you bring literature to such life, I will always be able to see.

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I'm very sorry to hear your news, but glad if these stories are of some help to you. All best wishes

[@janebunday1792]

Thank you. So much. I love the stories and the way to tell them. 🎉

[@varde42]

Thank You for Your wonderful work :)

[@nigelramkissoonraja6916]

Absolutely awesome everytime 👍❤️

[@marchuws4993]

Brill, thanks for posting, loved it

[@BitesizedAudio]

Glad to know you enjoyed it, thanks for listening

[@arthuroldale-ki2ev]

SPLENDID!!!

[@eltoyongardener1225]

I suspected a woman as soon as the “little man with a mustache” was mentioned. How they did the escape I did not know. But the parallel train running alongside each other made me recall that Agatha Christie mystery “4:50 from Paddington”.

[@Aiko2-26-9]

I liked this story. A clever plot and fun for train lovers.

[@mfranssens]

As always, thank you Simon.

[@REDRAWVISIONS]

Excellent!!!!

[@smythharris2635]

Good evening all, is this the Chattasleepless choo choo?

[@philipinchina]

First rate. Good story which could not have been delivered better.

[@user-gr6og9dj7l]

Very well done, good sir. 👏

[@Nel33147]

You Brits have an uncanny ability to sound so much more intelligent than us , even when we read and say the same exact thing. 😊 Great content , and a great range of content.

[@sallyv1939]

I Recently found your channel. I love your excellent narration, thank you. I’ve also subsequently got my Warhorse ticket for Wolverhampton! 👍🏻

[@rachelsanger8629]

Delightful story, thank you !

[@Fred-zc8lt]

Well narrated, I have subscribed. Thank you

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thanks for listening, and subscribing

[@judikingsman6132]

Absolutely wonderful 😊❤

[@nickybaker1338]

New story, Simon's narration 'nuff said 😍🤩😊

[@kskssxoxskskss2189]

Another winner!

[@mauramould3915]

Thomas W Hanshew was the father of my husband's grandmother!!! We live in England but he lived in Brooklyn, New York.

[@BitesizedAudio]

How interesting, thank you for sharing! It appears (from the limited information I've been able to find) that he spent the last few years of his life in Britain, and died in London, but the information is sketchy. I've put what I've been able to verify (mostly based on a 1914 New York Times article I seem to remember) in the video description... but if you or your husband can shed any further light through family memories etc I'd be fascinated to hear about it!

[@SteefenWillson]

Very fine. Thank you so much! ❤

[@patriciajrs46]

Long time no listen! My fault, not yours. Thanks Simon for all of the uploads. I enjoy them.

[@BitesizedAudio]

Glad to have you back, Patricia - thanks for your kind comments

[@j.t.1215]

❤Love and gratitude to Simon.❤

[@crystalclear6864]

Yea brilliant

[@joedge6142]

Great, just in time for bed 👍

[@januzzell8631]

Wonderful - thank you again

[@craigkelly4278]

Love this as always

[@maryeckel9682]

A new one! Hurray!

[@stevenverhaegen8729]

Rats. I was completely on the wrong track. I was convinced the murderers had done a way with a carriage that was switched to a sideline...😂 😂😂 Kidding, but the things they managed with those trains in that period... 🤔 Thanks for the entertaining reading! 😊👍

[@wdobni]

very fine narration, as usual....i could only get through 2/3 of the story as the 'detective' made so many bizarre and improbable deductions, conclusions, and observations, and got so much fortuitously timely coincidental verbal information from a half dozen disinterested bystanders with photographic memories that the story must surely be a cynical parody of sherlock holmes

[@mngirl5437]

A great read Simon ❤

[@Inverted.surfer]

This poor man shot on the train, I believe, caught the train mortally wounded after escaping the Penge Bungalow murders... Poor chap !!!

[@patytrico]

Thank you!

[@SpuktasticAudio]

All aboard for another ripping railway yarn! ❤ 🚂

[@patriciaramsey5294]

A new Hamilton Cleek story. 🎉

[@vanessametcalfe2797]

Thanks!

[@leebennett1821]

Thanks

[@BitesizedAudio]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@andrewwestburnham3777]

thank you

[@AdaaHussain]

Hey siman why don't you consider doing Shakespeare dramas like Romeo and Juliet, your voice will perfectly suit those classics

[@letsgobrandon6281]

I had this figured out in the first two minutes

[@fiddlersthree8463]

Hello again, Simon. I feel duty-bound to tell you that your voice is popping up all over the Internet in AI replicas. Other commenters on the sites agree that it sounds exactly like you, and one even stated without doubt that it was not AI, it was Simon Stanhope. I previously noted to you that the site neuralsurfer has an AI copy of your voice narrating numerous Somerset Maugham stories. I am currently listening to "you" narrating a video about porch pirates posted on May 26, 2024 on a channel called 100M. The video is titled When Package Thieves Get Instant Karma. It is quite shocking to hear your voice using American slang.

[@davidhudson5251]

I have also noticed this.

[@BitesizedAudio]

@fiddlersthree8463 Thanks for the heads-up. It's tricky, because I don't think it's an exact clone of my voice, despite some similarities. I played it to my wife and daughter and they didn't think it sounded like me at all... I can hear a certain echo of my voice at points, but then I'm used to hearing recordings of my own voice when doing the editing, so I've grown used to it and can hear both similarities and differences. The porch pirates video you reference does indeed sound to me like the same voice as neuralsurfer is using, which suggests to me it's an AI voice available to subscribers of some database somewhere. How it got into that database is another question... a lot of "scraping" the internet, I suspect. All very depressing. The growth of AI narration is a real scourge, I think, and I find it rather depressing that people are fooled into thinking it's a real person... For me the giveaways are the lack of emotion, lack of character voices, and missing nuance of interpretation which any (good) human reader brings to a text. Somerset Maugham deserves better! (Plus, as I think I mentioned before, his work is still under copyright so whoever is behind that channel should really have permission from his estate... I suspect they don't!)