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3. Elfride Decides

Episode 3 of 3

After seeing Stephen at the church, Elfride procrastinates over telling Henry of her past. Stars Jeremy Irons and Janet Maw.

Since their accidental encounter with her old love Stephen in the church, Elfride is painfully resolved to tell Henry Knight the truth about her past.

Yet she cannot bring herself to do so - frightened by what she expects his reaction to be and desperate for just one more day's happiness.

But too much procrastinating could be her downfall...

Conclusion of Thomas Hardy's novel, first published in 1873.

Dramatised by Jane Beeson

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

Director: Cherry Cookson

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 1982.

20 days left to listen

1 hour

Last on

Fri 21 Aug 2026 05:00
BBC Radio 4 Extra

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