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2. The Man of Letters

Episode 2 of 3

After failing to marry Stephen, Elfride meets his mentor Henry Knight. Starring Jeremy Irons and Janet Maw.

Stephen Smith writes again to Elfride Swancourt, saying he can't wait for them to get married.

However, Elfride can't imagine being married to him now.

Having met Mr Knight, she thinks Stephen is more like a brother....

Thomas Hardy's novel, first published in 1873.

Dramatised by Jane Beeson

Henry Knight .... Jeremy Irons
Elfride Swancourt ..... Janet Maw
Stephen Smith .... Michael Maloney
Parson Swancourt .... Nigel Stock
Mrs Swancourt .... Vivian Pickles
Mrs Jethway .... Anna Wing
Lord Luxellian .... Christopher Scott
Unity .... Sheila Grant
John Smith .... Alan Dudley

Director: Cherry Cookson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1982

19 days left to listen

1 hour

Last on

Thu 20 Aug 2026 05:00
BBC Radio 4 Extra

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1. The Architect

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3. Elfride Decides

See all episodes from A Pair of Blue Eyes by Thomas Hardy

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