In Matrimonial Malice Harriet is working for Joy Mostyn who has accused her husband of badly beating her over a long period, she finally has enough after he breaks her collar bone. Her story contrasts very differently with that of her husband Gordon who knows his career as a surgeon will be ruined if the story gets in the papers.
Joy Mostyn gets a very hard time in the witness box and it looks like her evidence is falling apart – until Harriet gets Gordon in the witness box.
Susan Littler as Sally Creig, Joy’s friend and one time girlfriend of Gordon’s.Meanwhile there is an interesting bit of business with Harriet having a go at Bill for not keeping the Chamber’s accounts up to date. Given that he and Rosie seem to be the only office staff and he barely has time to think never mind anything else it seems a little unfair. Harriet then makes a list of jobs for Bill and ends the conversation by saying “I don’t think I’m being difficult,” when actually she comes across as being very difficult. It seems Harriet’s new role as Head of Chambers is going to be hard work for Bill!
A strong episode lifted higher by some great guest players including Carolyn Seymour and Gareth Thomas as the Mostyns and Susan Littler as Joy’s friend Sally.
Anthony Valentine isn’t in this episode.
production details
UK / ITV – Yorkshire / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Friday 5 July 1974 at 9.00pm
Writer: Bill Macilwraith / Production Design: Eric Shedden / Director: Mark Cullingham
Series: Justice Season 3 Episode 7
cast
Margaret Lockwood as Harriet Peterson
John Stone as Ian Moody
John Bryans as Bill
Rosie Collins as Rosie
Carolyn Seymour as Joy Mostyn
Gareth Thomas as Gordon Mostyn
James Maxwell as Mr Stanhope
Brian Oulton as Mr Philson
Susan Littler as Sally Creig
Barbara Bolton as Alice Dewham
Roy Purcell as Dr Webb
Tom Gowling as Mr Byng
