Pod Insights British Scandal The Other Virgin's Baby | A Thoroughly Modern Marriage | 1 About this episode Free-spirit Christabel Hart wants to embrace the modern spirit of 1920s London, despite marrying into a stuffy, aristocratic family. But her aversion to sex and domesticity proves incompatible with the growing expectation to produce an heir. All seems lost - until a miracle happens…
Do you have a suggestion for a scandal you would like us to cover? Or perhaps you have a question you would like to ask our hosts? Email us at [email protected]
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Transcript Speaker names marked ? are inferred from speaking time and the show’s known hosts — they are not voice-verified.
0:00 Alice Levine? Audible subscribers can listen to all episodes of British Scandal ad-free right now. Join Audible today by downloading the Audible app. This episode contains discussion of sexual consent and might not be appropriate for all listeners.
0:19 Alice Levine? Matt, before we get started, we have actually had quite a few emails in. Loads of people are now using the email as a kind of, I suppose, like a village pinboard, if they've got a complaint, a correction, a bit of advice. We're a very analogue show in a lot of ways. We don't have social media for British Scandal.
0:37 Matt Forde? No, we're as old fashioned as you can get in the digital age. We've basically become like an MPs advice surgery. People are coming to us and they've had their water cut off if they think they're going to be deported. There are certain things we can't help with, but there are certain things that it's good to hear about. Nick has been in touch.
0:53 Alice Levine? Go on.
0:54 Matt Forde? And he says, "The pie mash shop in the Millennium Dome heist series is meant to be pronounced manzies."
1:02 Alice Levine? Nick, I'll be honest with you, I'll just have to take your word that that's not how I pronounced it because we don't listen back.
1:06 Matt Forde? Well, I do. I'm a genuine fan of the show. In fact, that's how I got this gig. I emailed [email protected] and my dream came true.
1:14 Alice Levine? And I've always said you do really give competition winner energy.
1:17 Matt Forde? Thank you.
1:18 Alice Levine? Tom has been in touch. He wants you to know, Matt, on the subject of Russell's Burgers, which got a lot of airtime the other day, you've been doing it all wrong. They are actually not for human consumption. No, that's not what he said. He said, "Don't microwave the whole thing. Toast the bun and microwave the innards."
1:34 Matt Forde? How did I... the innards? How did I never think of that? Because we know it's naught to tasty in 60 seconds.
1:40 Alice Levine? We know that, that's a given.
1:42 Matt Forde? But obviously if you're microwaving the bread with the burger, it's far superior to toast it, as they do in burger joints.
1:46 Alice Levine? As they do in joints across the world. Thank you so much, Tom. I mean, these are the hot button topics that you can only hear about here on British Scandal. So if you want to get in touch with a recommended scandal for us to cover...
1:57 Matt Forde? Or the best way to consume processed meat.
1:59 Alice Levine? Yes, find a podcast that can do both, is what I say. [email protected] . Right, enough of this. Shall we begin?
2:11 Matt Forde? Seventeenth of June nineteen twenty-one, Bedford Square, London. Dr Mackenzie beams and pulls out a chair for the young woman entering his treatment room. Christabel Russell is a member of one of the country's finest aristocratic families, and he's keen to impress. Mrs Russell, how wonderful to meet you. Do please sit down. Dr Mackenzie notes how attractive she is, if a little unconventional with her short-bobbed haircut and close-fitting dress. Now then, what seems to be the trouble? He watches Christabel fidget with the tips of her gloves, her eyes glued to her lap. I'm afraid this is rather embarrassing.
2:56 Matt Forde? Dr Mackenzie arranges his features sympathetically. He softly pats her hand. My dear, I've been doing this job for thirty years. I assure you, whatever the matter, I have seen it before. He waits as she squirms a little. I've been told that I'm with child, and all the signs seem to be there.
3:18 Matt Forde? Dr Mackenzie's smile widens. Everyone in his social circle knows how desperate Christabel's in-laws are for an heir. And he, Dr John Baird Mackenzie, could be responsible for this precious cargo's safe gestation.
3:32 Alice Levine? Well, not really. I hate to take it away from him, but...
3:36 Matt Forde? Well, I think most people agree. It's the men that do the hard work when it comes to pregnancy and childbirth. This would really put his modest practice on the map. In a year's time, he may even be treating royalty. Oh, what wonderful news! He grabs the cushion from the back of his chair and races round to place it behind Christabel. The thing is, I don't believe it. He blinks. I don't understand. Which doctor did you see? I was told by a clairvoyant. Dr Mackenzie tries not to let his tone betray his irritation. Why must so many foolish women trifle with the occult? Right, well, a full examination will soon settle things.
4:21 Matt Forde? He gestures to his table, but Christabel recoils. No, I've never had anyone interfere with me, down there, including my husband. I won't. Dr Mackenzie stares, uncertain he's heard her correctly. Mrs Russell, if that were true, you'd be quite the medical marvel. To his despair, Christabel shoots him a furious look. Are you calling me a liar? Dr Mackenzie reddens. He hasn't spent thirty years studying the body's finer mechanisms to be questioned by a twentysomething woman consulting witch doctors. But he can't allow himself to be rude.
5:02 Alice Levine? Please stop calling them "the body's finer mechanisms".
5:06 Matt Forde? I fear this may lead to disciplinary action, but I would just like to say they are some of the finest mechanisms I've ever seen.
5:14 Matt Forde? Mrs Russell, please forgive me, but the only way we can establish this is with a physical checkup. He holds her gaze for what feels like a lifetime. Finally, she nods and makes her way over to the examination table. Dr Mackenzie moves briskly, first feeling her abdomen. While it's not as pronounced as with some, there is an unmistakable firmness beneath the surface. Well, you certainly are with child. He sees the blood drain from Christabel's face. He moves lower onto the internal examination, and his brow furrows. This can't be right.
5:55 Matt Forde? Dr Mackenzie catches Christabel's eye. He checks again. Being wrong about this would put his whole reputation on the line, but there's no mistaking it. He's examined hundreds of women, and he's certain that Christabel Russell is five months pregnant. But just as she states, she also appears to be... A virgin.
6:21 Speaker 02 PrizePix packs are here. Rip digital packs and get real basketball, football and Pokémon cards on PrizePix packs. Available now nationwide. Once you see your pool, you have a choice to sell back instantly for real cash or ship at home. Cash from your sale will immediately be added to your PrizePix balance. It's just another way to run your game. New users, download the PrizePix app today and use code WONDERY to get $25 instantly in bonus packs when you buy your first $5 pack. PrizePix, run your game. 18 plus in eligible areas. Terms apply. Collect responsibly.
6:52 Speaker 03 Overwhelmed? That was me with diabetes. Hey, I'm Jabraan. Between teaching and coaching, managing diabetes felt like an extra job. With the Freestyle Libre 3 CGM, I get real-time glucose readings and have the insights to make informed decisions. My life feels lighter now. Learn more at freestylelibre.us.
7:12 Speaker 04 The views expressed should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment as a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual circumstances may vary. For prescription only. Safety info found at freestylelibre.us.
7:25 Alice Levine? From Wondery, I'm Alice Levine.
7:27 Matt Forde? And I'm Matt Ford.
7:28 Alice Levine? And this is British Scandal, the show where we bring you the murkier stories that ever happened on these odd little isles.
7:34 Matt Forde? British scandals come in many shapes and sizes. Some are about money, some are about sex, they're all about power.
7:41 Alice Levine? But when we look at scandals a bit closer, they turn out to be stranger, wilder, just plain weirder than we remember.
7:48 Matt Forde? So we're journeying back to ask who's to blame for what happened.
7:52 Alice Levine? And when the dust settled, did anything really change?
8:04 Matt Forde? Alice, today's scandal has a vaguely festive theme. What is the miracle that we all associate with the background of Christmas?
8:11 Alice Levine? Okay, is it the degree of the discount of Black Friday deals?
8:15 Matt Forde? No, that is a miracle, but it's not that one.
8:17 Alice Levine? The unique taste of Advent calendar chocolate?
8:19 Matt Forde? Personally, for me, that probably would be it, but in this context, no.
8:22 Alice Levine? Is it the generous returns policy of major retailers that means you can take stuff back way into January?
8:29 Matt Forde? Virgin on product placement, no. The bit that still blows my mind today is the Virgin Mary.
8:34 Alice Levine? Ah, sure, the ultimate case of we need to talk about where babies come from.
8:38 Matt Forde? Also, isn't it funny that 2025 years on, she's still known as the Virgin Mary? That's like me being known as Ton King Matt forever.
8:47 Alice Levine? Or ever.
8:48 Matt Forde? Fair point. And actually, today's story is about Britain's very own version of the immaculate conception.
8:53 Alice Levine? I feel like I would have heard about this, so go on.
8:56 Matt Forde? Yeah, you won't have heard of this story, but it is a cracker. It's a story of innocence, wealth, ambition, sex, gossip and feminism, a nightmare mother-in-law, and that classic British scandal subject, class.
9:08 Alice Levine? In the words of our executive producer, Joe, it's about breeding.
9:12 Matt Forde? In this case, it's more of a question of did they breed? And for this story's suggestion, we have listener Amy Vincent to thank.
9:19 Alice Levine? Thank you, Amy.
9:20 Matt Forde? This is the story of Christabel Russell, a woman who married into the upper classes and somehow found herself at the centre of one of the strangest, most scandalous court cases in British history. This is episode one, A Thoroughly Modern Marriage.
9:38 Matt Forde? December 1917, the Savoy Hotel, London.
9:44 Matt Forde? Twenty-year-old John Russell helps his mother out of their black daimler. He nervously eyes the entrance to the grand ballroom, grimaces as his mother yanks him down and adjusts his bow tie. Must you? John straightens up again, his six-foot-six frame now towering over her. She glares back. This wedding reception will be teeming with eligible young ladies, good families, proper breeding. There is a war on, Mother. I'm only back for three days. It's hardly the time to be... Nonsense. Your cousin Cedric managed to find a wife and he's in the trenches.
10:23 Alice Levine? That feels like a lie.
10:26 Alice Levine? Where?
10:27 Matt Forde? Get me out there. It'll be a heck of a recruiting tour, won't it? There's loads of ladies in the trenches, you know. Just dig deeper. They're down there somewhere. John sighs. He'd much rather be with his navy buddies during his leave than this stupid ball. His pals will be enjoying cigars and whisky right now. His mother cuts into his thoughts with her usual squeal. The Russell Fanny line goes back to the Dukes of Bedford. Your great-great-uncle was the Prime Minister, twice. It's high time you produced an heir. John nods, his mother's eyes still boring into him. He's always been so shy around girls, but with his mother it's easier to surrender than argue.
11:13 Matt Forde? Inside, under Lady Amphil's hawk-like gaze, John edges towards the dance floor, where gentlemen expertly steer ladies in silk gowns across the marble floor. Imagine mum watching you. Go on, talk to her, she's here.
11:27 Alice Levine? Squeeze her boob.
11:29 Matt Forde? No, not her, she's too good-looking for you. Keep going down the line. No, further, further, further. His top hat tilts as it brushes some hanging garlands. John inwardly curses as he pushes it straight, more self-conscious than ever. But he forces himself to approach a girl nearby. I say, care to dance? The girl looks up at him and smirks. Sorry, but I didn't bring a ladder. John's cheeks burn as a gaggle of ladies chortle. He turns away humiliated, only to feel a hand on his arm. He feels a rush of anger. Mother, will you just for once, please? But as he turns, his breath catches. He's staring into the eyes of a stunning blonde.
12:13 Matt Forde? She's tall, perhaps five foot eleven, and there's something Sphinx-like about her.
12:20 Matt Forde? I'll dance with you. Before John can fathom a response, she's pulling him across the floor, nodding towards the girl who just mocked him. Ignore that horrible creature. I sat next to her at dinner and she was the most crushing bore. I'm Christabel, but I prefer Chris. John relaxes a little as she confidently stares him around to the music. John Russell, midshipman, HMS Defence. A sailor? How tremendous. I've always wanted to go to sea, although I doubt it can beat the thrill of the air. You've been in an aeroplane? I've flown one. It was absolutely topping, like being a bird.
13:06 Matt Forde? John's self-consciousness begins to leave him as he fires questions at her. He discovers she's twenty-one and works in a munitions factory. Not only has she flown, she's ridden horses, driven motorbikes, and her passions are dressmaking and dancing. But then, to his despair, the music ends and she checks her wristwatch.
13:28 Matt Forde? I must be on my way. Mary's Club beckons. John feels a stab of panic. He's certain that if Christabel leaves now, he'll never see her again. A new determination grips him. I wonder, could I take you to dinner when I'm next on leave? He stays on her as she rests her hand on her hip and tilts her head, studying him.
13:53 Matt Forde? For a moment, he's certain she'll refuse, but then her lips curve into a smile.
14:00 Matt Forde? Why not? It might be rather fun. John's heart soars. He spots his mother across the room, eyes narrowing in suspicion. He knows Chris is nothing like the demure young ladies his mother has in mind for a bride, but he's already decided. He'll defy every deathly dull plan for him by making this girl his wife.
14:31 Matt Forde? Seven months later. September 1918. Kensington, London. Christabel straightens her white ruff and shakes out her arms to show off her baggy white tunic with black pom poms. She sticks a leg forward as John opens the door of his flat, giving him an eyeful of her pantaloons. Ta-da! I'm Piero. She points to the tear painted onto her powder-white face. Looks glum. Right, eyes, it's different. Christabel inwardly sighs when John reveals he's chosen mock-medieval armour for the costume party they're attending. It's nice, but rather dull, a bit like him.
15:14 Matt Forde? Christabel has done all she can these last few years to enjoy the freedoms the war has offered young women like her. She loves working at the Woolwich Arsenal. Recently, she was promoted to inspector of gun carriages. Now she's in charge of over 2,000 women. She takes home real money: £400 this year.
15:33 Alice Levine? You know what I'm gonna ask you?
15:35 Matt Forde? In modern money, that would be £24,600.
15:38 Alice Levine? Not only is that a lot of money, most women in her position before the war probably wouldn't have had a job.
15:44 Matt Forde? And here she is, trousering £24,600. This is why older people loved the war: they made a fortune!
15:52 Alice Levine? I was making a point about feminism, and as ever, you have just trounced it.
15:56 Matt Forde? Yeah, but Alice, read what it says on my t-shirt: "This is what a feminist looks like." The money gives Christabel freedom to go out in the evenings and dance. She likes John, but this costume reminds her he's hardly unconventional. I'm sure we can find you something better. Where's your closet? Oh, um, through there, but why don't you wait while I have a look? Christabel playfully barges him aside. Nonsense! I dread to think what you'll pick.
16:25 Matt Forde? Christabel eagerly pulls the closet open. Inside, several silken satin dresses hang between John's naval uniforms. She slowly looks back at him, finds herself smiling.
16:38 Matt Forde? John? How many girls do you see while you're on leave? None. There's only you, I promise. She lays one of the dresses out on the floor, lets out a little laugh.
16:52 Matt Forde? If I wore that, I'd need stilts and a prayer. She looks from the dress to John, whose cheeks have turned crimson. Her eyes dart back to the six feet of fabric on the floor. She watches as John slumps onto the bed, a look of utter mortification on his face. John Russell, here I thought you were all starched collars and straight lines.
17:15 Alice Levine? Okay, so this is not what I was expecting either. He wears dresses in his alone time, we presume.
17:21 Matt Forde? John loves crossdressing, and of course, he's the last one that you'd expect. But isn't that always the case? What are you getting up to, Alice Levine?
17:30 Alice Levine? Am I the last one you'd suspect to be wearing a dress? Yeah, fair, fair.
17:36 Matt Forde? He looks up in shock. She knows she has to tread carefully. I'd love to see one on, quickly adds, for the party. She feels a thrill course through her as John's expression transforms from one of utter shame to trepidation to eagerness. Really? She gently rests a reassuring hand on his arm. She might just have misjudged John Russell after all. Yes, it would be perfectly tremendous. I'll do your makeup.
18:15 Matt Forde? At the party, Christabel looks over the shoulder of the man she's dancing with and watches John with growing fascination. His usual stiffness has gone as he sweeps elegantly around the room, topping up drinks, chatting easily. Her tipsy partner pulls her uncomfortably close. Christabel recoils. I'd rather you didn't. Her anxiety grows as the man ignores her, tightening his grip. But then. Excuse me, the lady's with me. Christabel feels a surge of relief at John's assertive voice. He reaches out his painted fingers and takes her into his arms, keeping a polite distance as always. She feels her shoulders relax.
19:00 Matt Forde? Chris, I wonder, would you ever consider becoming my wife? Christabel starts to laugh.
19:11 Matt Forde? John, I'm really not the kind. But John stops dancing, fixes her with a serious expression. I'm hearing talk of the war ending soon. We should think about the future. Christabel's mind races. She hadn't thought beyond the war.
19:31 Alice Levine? Yeah, of course, there's been this break in the norm and she's living in this anomalous moment of independence where she can go out at night, enjoy herself, she can go dancing, but also she's got this job and she's got purpose and she's got money. And she's thinking about the end of the war and imagining probably quite rightly that it's going to default back to normal dynamics. She won't be working every day in charge of lots of people in her factory. She will likely be in a domestic role and she won't be needed with the purpose that she has now.
20:00 Matt Forde? No war equals no munitions equals no fun.
20:06 Matt Forde? I would never expect you to change, Chris. You could still go out dancing, living just as you do now, as would I. I feel we understand each other. She gazes into John's hopeful eyes. She realises that in a few months she'll be expected to settle down. And if she doesn't, people will start asking questions. She feels John's gentle hands on her waist. He's so much more respectful than other men. He makes her feel safe. Maybe this could work out well for both of them. He can marry her and she can keep her old life and use him as cover. But she must be completely honest.
20:48 Matt Forde? The thing is, I've never wanted children or any of that bedroom business. I find the whole idea of that messiness rather ghastly. If we were to marry, it would have to be more like a friendship.
21:05 Alice Levine? Okay, this is interesting. So she lives this very free, alternative life, but we've seen her reject the guy in the club, although he did seem sleazy to me so far. And now she's saying no bedroom business, which I'd like to unpack. So we're thinking maybe she's gay or she's asexual?
21:24 Matt Forde? And we don't know. Historians have no idea the reason why. All we do know is she did not want any man going near her finer mechanisms.
21:36 Matt Forde? She eyes him nervously, expecting him to withdraw his offer. But to her surprise, "That's fine by me. Whatever you want." Christabel has always thought of marriage as a trap, but perhaps with John it really could be a thoroughly modern arrangement, based on understanding and fun. Maybe she really can have it all.
22:06 Matt Forde? October 1918, Oakleigh House, Bedfordshire. Lady Anthill forces a welcoming smile as the butler shows her sheepish-looking son and his new wife into the drawing room. She extends her hand with the barest of warmth. "Christabel, how nice to meet you." "Likewise, Lady Anthill. We were so sorry you and Lord Anthill couldn't make the wedding." "Yes, well sadly we had longstanding commitments that were quite impossible to change." Her jaw tightens as Christabel raises an eyebrow. It's clear they both know that's a lie. In fact, Lady Anthill refused to attend, believing her son could do much better
22:51 Matt Forde? than this Colonel's daughter.
22:54 Matt Forde? She had nothing less than royalty in mind for her eldest. She can only hope today's meeting will give Christabel a clear idea of what's expected of her. Lady Anthill adjusts her lace cuffs and gets straight down to business. Your dress is rather contemporary, Christabel. While I'm sure Bond Street has changed since I last visited, it would be more in keeping if I made it myself. Actually, Lady Anthill can barely hide her horror. Like a seamstress? John jumps in. Christabel likes to design her own clothes. Well, when you are presented at court, we shall have something properly made.
23:40 Matt Forde? She watches Christabel's eyes widen. Presented at court? I hadn't thought, um... Lady Anthill's mouth tightens. She can't believe the girl's naivety. My dear, you are a Russell now. There are certain values, certain expectations. Lady Anthill eyeballs her, confident the message has got through.
24:13 Matt Forde? That evening, Lady Anthill pauses as she walks through the guest wing, confused to see John unpacking in the blue bedroom. She goes inside. Why are you in here? I had the rose suite prepared. Ah, yes, well, Christabel and I, at home, we have our own rooms. I don't understand. She watches John straighten up. We have decided not to, that is, Christabel is rather reverse to...
24:44 Alice Levine? You don't need to explain. Just say we have our own rooms.
24:49 Matt Forde? Not even second base?
24:51 Alice Levine? There's other stuff that you can do.
24:53 Matt Forde? Even over the shirt, you can...
24:59 Matt Forde? A knot forms in Lady Anthill's stomach. You mean to tell me she's not fulfilling her conjugal duties? It's really none of your... But what about children?
25:12 Matt Forde? Christabel doesn't really care for them. I beg your pardon? I don't want to push. I really think if you try to get to know her, give her time to adjust, perhaps in time she'll... Lady Amphil holds her hand up, her patience reaching its limit. She will not let this girl infect John with such outlandish, unacceptable ideas. Tradition must be upheld. You and your wife have a duty to produce an heir within the year. There will be no more separate rooms nonsense. She will lie back and do what every woman must. Do I make myself clear?
25:49 Alice Levine? So grim.
25:51 Matt Forde? And also imagine having to then say, look, I know we've talked about that, my mum really wants us to have sex. Could you just do it for her?
25:59 Alice Levine? She just said, could you just lie back and do what every woman has to do? So like, is that cool?
26:06 Alice Levine? And then I've got to go and tell my mum that we did it.
26:07 Matt Forde? In fact, I might just get her in halfway through. Mum! Mum, quick! God, quick, run! Too late.
26:16 Matt Forde? Lady Amphil stays on John until he wilts under her gaze and nods. But she knows she can't leave it there. She will keep a close eye on John and refuse to let up. Whatever it takes to ensure the family bloodline survives.
26:41 Matt Forde? One month later, Kensington, London. Christabel closes the door of the flat, kicks off her dancing shoes and rubs one of her aching feet. She stifles a yawn as she checks her watch. Midnight. She glances towards the kitchen and is relieved to see the light is off. She usually enjoys chatting to John about her night over cocoa, but all she wants to do now is sleep. Entering her room, she's startled to see John sitting on her bed, holding a slim book.
27:17 Matt Forde? John, whatever are you doing in here? Come here, I want to show you something. Christabel slowly edges towards him.
27:28 Matt Forde? Only when she sits does she read the title.
27:32 Matt Forde? Married Love by Mary Stopes.
27:37 Alice Levine? This is a really famous book, isn't it? This manual, I guess.
27:40 Matt Forde? It is. It is a revolutionary book and it advocates female sexual pleasure, which was groundbreaking at the time because particularly the upper classes considered talking about sex absolutely a no-go area. And sex was seen at the time purely for procreation purposes. Female sexual pleasure was not considered at all.
27:58 Alice Levine? Yes, I guess Lie Back and Think of England was the rather horrendous.
28:02 Matt Forde? Sequel.
28:02 Alice Levine? Mantra.
28:05 Matt Forde? Christabel shudders. What, um, what is this? John pushes it towards her. It's a guide for married couples in the bedroom. Christabel eyes him with confusion, waits for him to continue.
28:23 Matt Forde? The navy chaps are always talking about this manual. She glares at John as he thumbs the pages enthusiastically. It's actually frightfully modern. Some of the suggestions even sound fun.
28:36 Matt Forde? Christabel's skin crawls. She snaps the book shut.
28:41 Matt Forde? We had an agreement, John. The thing is, mother is threatening to cut off my allowance, even take the flat if I, we, don't provide her an heir by... That's blackmail! To Christabel's horror, John reopens the book. I know we've rather shied away from these things, but this explains everything.
29:02 Matt Forde? Christabel stares at him, aghast, as he begins to read aloud. The woman has at the surface a small vestigial organ called the clitoris, which corresponds to the man's penis and is extremely sensitive to touch.
29:16 Alice Levine? Why are you making notes?
29:17 Matt Forde? Does the book say where it is? Is there a diagram? Stop it! Christabel notes the more John reads, the more excited he seems to become. There are suggestions for prevention, too. We wouldn't even have to have a baby straight away. We could practise first. It could be like dancing. Christabel's revulsion grows. It is nothing like dancing. Please just leave now! John rises from the bed and slowly pads out.
29:49 Matt Forde? Cristobal lies the book and tentatively opens it, picking out words like stimulus and orgasm, and diagrams of unimaginable acts.
30:00 Matt Forde? She slams it shut and hurls it across the room. Her chest heaves. Cristobal wonders if she's made a terrible mistake by marrying into such a controlling family, with all their suffocating talk of duty. She will just have to show them that she won't be pushed around, and banish these thoughts from her husband's mind by doing things her way. The modern way.
30:31 Speaker 05 Hi, I'm Kenya Paris.
30:33 Speaker 06 And I'm Malcolm Gladwell. We're back for season two of our Audible original podcast, The Unusual Suspects.
30:39 Speaker 05 We'll sit down with extraordinary guests from the worlds of art, film, literature, comedy, and wellness to hear from their unexpected stories of success.
30:46 Speaker 06 And who do we have this season? Well, we'll talk with Grammy-winning artist Anderson Paak, athlete Rich Roll, portrait artist Amy Sherald, Oscar-winning director Ron Howard, legendary writer David Sedaris, and many more. These conversations are more intimate than last season, wouldn't you say?
31:02 Speaker 05 I would. Listen to season one of The Unusual Suspects wherever you get your podcasts, and sign up for a free trial Audible to listen to season two in the Audible app or by subscribing to Apple Podcasts.
31:19 Speaker 04 You stepped out for your morning jog. Except it's not your usual morning jog. You started listening to an epic sci-fi book on Audible. Thirty chapters later, you've accidentally run a half marathon. You've lost track of how far you've run, somewhere just past the city limits. You can't stop. You have to find out what happens next. Then it's over. The universe seems bigger. You feel different. You feel like you have no idea where you are. Audible: Stories That Speak to You.
32:04 Matt Forde? March 1920, White Drawing Room, Buckingham Palace. Lady Amphil sucks in her breath as Christabel enters the flag-filled room on John's arm. She's wearing a dress with a shockingly low neckline and hair newly styled in a dreadful bob, hardly appropriate for a victory party with royalty. Lady Amphil's fingers tighten around her glass as she drains her sherry. She's sick of this humiliation. Talking to John has achieved nothing. She will have to deal with Christabel directly. She cuts through the crowd and grabs her daughter-in-law's elbow, firmly steers her into a quiet corner.
32:50 Matt Forde? It's high time we discussed your behaviour. I fund your lifestyle. In return, I expect you to fulfil your role as wife. Lady Amphil puffs her chest. Fully.
33:04 Matt Forde? She falters as Christabel nods. I quite agree. Lady Amphil blinks, starts to relax her grip on Christabel a little. Right, well, for a start, we must have no more of these elaborate... creations. She waves her hand at Christabel's dress. Oh, but I must keep wearing them, Lady Amphil. To advertise. Lady Amphil stares at her, lost. If I'm going to go into business so that I can support John, instead of relying on your allowance? Oh, this is lovely. She has played this beautifully. Business? Whatever do you mean? Her mind reels. Does her daughter-in-law mean to trade?
33:50 Matt Forde? Christabel swims in and out of focus. My mother will help me finance it. I've already found a suitable place in Mayfair. Lady Anthill is speechless, as Christabel casts her eyes across the room. And thanks to your connections, a whole host of potential clients. Lady Anthill clutches her pearls. I absolutely forbid it. You will concentrate on producing an heir, and if you do not, I will, I will insist. John seeks an annulment. Christabel's smile is infuriatingly serene. An annulment? After you presented me at court? Wouldn't that be rather improper?
34:36 Matt Forde? Lady Anthill's mouth goes dry, as Christabel leans in. Whatever would your friend say? What would the king say?
34:49 Matt Forde? Lady Anthill is speechless as the dinner gong sounds.
34:53 Alice Levine? Which was the mic drop of the 1920s, as she delivers the killer one liner.
34:58 Matt Forde? Now if you'll excuse me, I must join my husband. Lady Anthill feels her chest tighten as Christabel glides away. She realises now how destructive this girl is to all she holds dear. Enough is enough. She must force John to see the error of his ways, and find a new, more compliant wife, before the Anthill name is irreparably damaged.
35:31 Matt Forde? Four months later, Curzon Street, Mayfair.
35:36 Matt Forde? Christabel pins the folds of a gold lame dress on a mannequin. She beams as she steps back and takes in her shop. Bolts of silk and satin adorn the tables. A few society ladies browse through a book of her designs. She's about to go over and help them when, Christabel's smile fades, as John marches in and angrily slaps a letter on the counter. She sighs at the sight of his mother's familiar spidery handwriting.
36:04 Matt Forde? What now? She's cut my allowance entirely. Christabel glances at the customers. She stares John away from them. It doesn't matter. I can give you money. I don't want to be kept. It's not right.
36:18 Alice Levine? This comes up often in British scandal when we're talking about mega poshos. There is a kind of selective observance of what is proper.
36:30 Matt Forde? I can't live off money from my wife. I must live off money from my mother instead.
36:34 Alice Levine? Exactly.
36:35 Matt Forde? I'm a proud independent man.
36:39 Matt Forde? John slams his fist down. She'd stop if we just gave her an air. Christabel flushes as her customers scurry out. Her discomfort grows as he steps forward, grabs her shoulders. Would trying really be so bad? The book says, not that wretched book. She pushes him away. Ever since John laid eyes on that blasted book, he's changed.
37:06 Matt Forde? Most nights, he leaves his door open, like an open invitation. And she's even caught him watching her undress. She takes a breath.
37:17 Matt Forde? I love you. But I simply don't have those urges. And I don't think you really do either. It's just the pressure from your mother. Please, if you want to be with me, you must forget about her and all this air business. She stays on him, relieved when he nods sadly and slumps upstairs.
37:39 Matt Forde? Christabel feels her stomach are not, hoping that will be an end to it.
37:47 Matt Forde? Later, when she enters the flat after work, she's heartened to see John's bedroom door is firmly shut. Exhausted, she heads to bed, soon falling into a deep sleep.
38:01 Matt Forde? Until a hot breath against her neck wakes her with a start. A body pressing close, a hand moving across her nightgown, trying to get underneath. Horrified, Christabel sits bolt upright and turns to see John laying beside her, naked. John, what on God's earth? She scrambles from the bed. I must have been sleepwalking. I'm terribly sorry.
38:27 Alice Levine? This is suddenly very sinister and very scary.
38:31 Matt Forde? Christabel pulls on her dressing gown, wrapping it tightly round her as she waits for him to go. But since I'm here, perhaps we could... caddle? Christabel stares into John's eyes and sees something new, something alien and unnerving: lust.
38:51 Matt Forde? She feels sick to the stomach as she realises with absolute clarity that this isn't just about Lady Anthill's wishes anymore. John's urges are real. She pulls on her shoes and runs down the stairs, John shouting after her. Chris, where are you going? Chris!
39:10 Matt Forde? Ignoring his cries, Christabel unlocks the door and sprints out into the cold night. She halts when she reaches Murray's Club. Hearing the faint strains of music nearby, she feels safe, like she can breathe again. And now she knows what she must do. If she can't keep John from her bed, she will simply ensure she's never in it. Instead, she will go out dancing, all and every night if she has to. Anything to escape her husband's incessant, ceaseless desires.
39:56 Matt Forde? December 1920, The Rad Club, Pall Mall.
40:01 Matt Forde? John sinks into his leather armchair and takes a sip of whisky as his old navy captain recounts a recent fox hunting trip. Lads, lads, lads.
40:12 Alice Levine? Classic nineteen twenty leads.
40:14 Matt Forde? John's determined to make a night of it. He's spent the past month either arguing with his mother or with Chris. Tonight, he just wants to forget. Had a little rascal in my sights early on, but the blasted thing gave us a good run. Very nimble it was, tireless. John makes sympathetic grunts along with the rest of his pals, until one of them turns his way. A small smile playing on his lips. Speaking of nimble, Stilts, I saw your wife and Murray's the other night. Dancing up quite the storm she was, with several different men. John forces a laugh as his captain chimes in. Live little thing, isn't she? John shrinks into his chair as they clink glasses. Certainly is. I must admit, I've been quite envious.
40:59 Matt Forde? She must be rather worked up by the time she gets home.
41:04 Matt Forde? The table erupts in laughter. Only joshing, old boy. You don't know how lucky you are, Stilts. All changes down there once they start knocking out sprogs.
41:16 Alice Levine? These guys are fun, aren't they? They're just fun.
41:21 Matt Forde? He drains his glass, orders another, then another and another.
41:28 Matt Forde? Three hours later, John stumbles through the dark streets towards home. His head swims with thoughts of Christabel. How he loves her, wants her. He's fought his family, his dogged mother, for months to be with her. And he has rights as a husband. He must take them.
41:47 Matt Forde? John crashes into the flat to find Christabel removing her coat.
41:52 Matt Forde? John, I, I, I thought you were asleep. Pulled stood by alcohol, John bites back. No, Chris. I am very much awake, and I simply must. To his annoyance, she doesn't even meet his eye, as she waves her hand behind her. I'm tired, darling. I'll see you in the morning. He's left standing in the dark hallway alone, and feels something deep within him snap. He storms into his room, pulls a trunk from under the bed, and stares at its contents. He's had enough of being emasculated, humiliated, ignored. He's going to take what is rightfully his, by force.
42:39 Matt Forde? Seconds later, Curzon Street, Mayfair. Christabel sighs at the sound of her door creaking open. She continues to remove her makeup. She's exhausted, and all she wants to do is sleep. John, I said I'm tired. But as she turns, she feels the blood drain from her face. John is pointing a shotgun directly between her eyes.
43:06 Alice Levine? Jesus Christ.
43:10 Matt Forde? You will fulfill your conjugal duties, and if you refuse me again, I will kill you. Right here and now.
43:21 Matt Forde? The room seems to spin. Christabel's heart hammers against her ribs as she forces herself to breathe slowly.
43:30 Matt Forde? John, darling, you don't mean this. You're drunk. She flinches as he takes a step closer. Don't patronize me. She watches as his hand begins to tremble. Then, to her growing horror, he turns the gun to his own temple. Maybe, maybe I can't kill you, but I'll blow my own brains out, I swear.
43:59 Matt Forde? Christabel looks into John's wild, unfocused eyes. Let's just talk, John. Please. She hears his voice crack. All we do is talk. Christabel sees tears form in his eyes. She takes a tentative step forward, only for John to press the gun's barrel even more forcefully against his head. Please. Sit with me, John. Christabel slowly guides him to the bed. She allows herself to breathe as he finally lowers the gun slightly and sinks onto the mattress beside her. But to her despair, his finger remains on the trigger. I love you, John. You know that.
44:43 Matt Forde? I just want things to work out.
44:47 Matt Forde? John's shoulders begin to shake. His lip quivers. Then why? Why do you make me a laughingstock?
44:55 Alice Levine? Wow, so it's not even "I really desire you, please give me what I want", which is in and of itself completely unreasonable. It's "because the big boys tease me at the club, will you have sex with me"? Still a no, actually, weirdly.
45:10 Matt Forde? Actually, it was a definite no before, it's even more of a no now. Christabel feels a prickly of guilt. I didn't realise that... And tomorrow, when we go to Oakley. Mother will belittle me as always. She'll call me spineless, a disgrace to the family. Everywhere I go, everywhere I look...
45:35 Matt Forde? Christabel's heart breaks as his voice cracks.
45:39 Matt Forde? She watches the gun slip from his fingers and onto the bed, as he collapses against her, sobbing onto her shoulder. I can't do this anymore. I can't!
45:52 Matt Forde? Up there, shh now. It's all right. We'll make it right, I promise.
46:01 Matt Forde? Christabel practically holds her breath as John's breathing becomes heavier, the alcohol and exhaustion overtaking him. He passes out.
46:11 Matt Forde? Carefully she picks up the shotgun and carries it to the closet. She tucks it behind her hatbox as out of sight. Her eye catches the copy of Married Love she'd hidden there months ago. She pulls the book out and opens it.
46:27 Matt Forde? Her stomach lurches, just as it did the first time she saw these pages. But now she forces herself to read. Has she just been in denial these past few months? Clinging to a fantasy that such a thing as a modern marriage can exist? Because however much it disgusts her, if she doesn't give John what he wants, right now she fears that one, or both of them, will end up dead.
47:02 Speaker 07 I'm Gemma Whelan, and in the new season of The Spy Who, we tell the story of the original femme fatale, the spy who was Mata Hari. A famous dancer turned World War I secret agent, accused of seducing Allied officers to uncover their plans. But was she a temptress or a scapegoat for French failures? Follow The Spy Who now, wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also listen to the full season of The Spy Who Was Mata Hari early and ad-free on Audible.
47:32 Speaker 02 In the summer of 1881, US Army Lieutenant Adolphus Greeley and 24 other men embarked on an ambitious scientific mission to the northernmost reaches of the Arctic. But despite several triumphs of discovery, the men would soon face tragedy. Hi, I'm Lindsey Graham, the host of the podcast American History Tellers. We take you to the events, times, and people that shaped America and Americans, our values, our struggles, and our dreams. In our latest series, after Adolphus Greeley and his men arrive at their destination more than 1,000 miles above the Arctic Circle, they get to work collecting scientific data and exploring the frigid landscape. But when resupply ships fail to reach them two summers in a row, they're forced to set out on a desperate search for rescue,
48:17 Speaker 02 and not all of them will make it home. Follow American History Tellers wherever you get your podcasts. Audible subscribers can binge all episodes of American History Tellers: Greeley Arctic Expedition early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts.
48:43 Matt Forde? The following day, December 1920, Oakley House, Bedfordshire. Christabel pushes her baked apple Charlotte around the plate, overwhelmed by a sense of impending doom at what she promised John she would do later tonight.
48:59 Matt Forde? Lady Anthele's eyes burn into her from across the dining table. You've barely eaten this evening, Christabel. Have we served you something you couldn't stomach? No, I just don't have much of an appetite, Lady Anthele. I hope you'll forgive me if I retire early.
49:18 Matt Forde? Of course, the bed is made up in the rose suite. For both of you. Christabel catches the hopeful smile from John as she pushes back her chair and makes her way towards the stairs.
49:33 Matt Forde? Twenty minutes later, her hands tremble as she attempts to fasten her nightgown in the sweet adjoining dressing room. She stares at her reflection in the mirror. It's perfectly natural, perfectly fun. Just like dancing. Think of dancing. Christabel takes a deep breath, then opens the door to see John is already in bed. He pulls back the covers invitingly and looks at her with such tenderness that her fear begins to recede. Come here, darling. Don't be scared.
50:08 Alice Levine? Not what you want to hear from a potential lover.
50:12 Matt Forde? Christabel climbs in beside him, tries to relax, but the musky scent of his body, the heat from his skin as he shuffles closer, the sweat beading on his brow, it all feels so alien to her, so wrong. I promise I'll be gentle. We can start with just the tip, as my navy chaps call it. No point trying to climb Everest on the first expedition, eh? Christabel squeezes her eyes shut, then she feels the weight of John's body on top of her, pressing down. Try to relax, darling, while I, uh... Christabel feels him fumbling, just as she feared. The sensation is strange, uncomfortable. Darling, please, I... It's almost in, just a little longer.
50:58 Matt Forde? I'm sorry, but I simply can't.
51:03 Matt Forde? She shoves him away.
51:05 Alice Levine? Whatever way you look at this, it's so grim. She is definitely under an immense amount of pressure. She feels pressure from her mother-in-law to have sex with her husband. I can't believe that she even tried it. I mean, the dynamic here is, as we know, totally bonkers. I mean, he was in their room with a gun not that long ago. And then there are other moments of genuine affection. So we can't know what was going on in either of their heads. But you never want to hear the sentiment. It's almost end just a little longer.
51:35 Matt Forde? Christabel sees the desire in John's eyes turn to despair. We want different things, John.
51:42 Matt Forde? We've been fooling ourselves.
51:45 Matt Forde? What are you saying?
51:48 Matt Forde? We must admit defeat. Get that blasted annulment. Christabel's heart aches as she watches John's face crumple. But saying the words has only crystallized the decision in her head. It's time to put them both out of their misery and end this marriage once and for all.
52:13 Matt Forde? Five months later, May 1920, Mayfair.
52:19 Matt Forde? Christabel wrinkles her nose at the strong aroma of incense as she enters the shop and takes in the myriad crystals, astrological charts, and eastern figurines before her.
52:30 Matt Forde? A small woman emerges from a pair of long velvet drapes at the back of the room. She wonders if she should leave.
52:37 Matt Forde? She's been struggling to focus and sleep since she separated from John. So her mother has suggested she sees her clairvoyant. But Christabel is having second thoughts. Mrs. Naismith? You must be Christabel. Mrs. Naismith extends her hand. Christabel takes it reluctantly, feels a prickly of unease. Please, come through. Mrs. Naismith sits her down at a table, then closes her eyes and lifts her hands so that they hover over her. You pride yourself on being modern, independent. You've recently opened a business in fashion.
53:21 Matt Forde? And your marriage is troubled.
53:25 Matt Forde? Christabel smiles wryly. Her mother could have told Mrs. Naismith all of this. Your husband has taken new employment, and has looked at a cottage for the pair of you near Harpenden. He so desperately wants you back. Christabel shuffles uncomfortably. She never told anyone about that.
53:45 Alice Levine? Although estate agents can be a bit nosey, so they could have let slip.
53:50 Matt Forde? They'll gossip, don't they? You've been talking to Foxtons?
53:55 Matt Forde? Now, tell me what troubles you. Christabel hesitates. But then she reasons there's no harm in confiding in a woman she'll never see again. My husband and I want different things. His family are aristocratic and in need of an heir. But I do not wish to provide one. Mrs. Naismith opens her eyes, and gives Christabel a strange, knowing smile. My dear, it's rather late for such concerns, don't you think? Christabel stays on her, confused.
54:34 Matt Forde? Whatever do you mean?
54:39 Matt Forde? You already have a baby on the way. Christabel throws back her head and laughs. That's impossible! I'm quite certain, and quite wrong. We've never had sexual intercourse. But Mrs. Naismith stays on her, looking doubtful. Really? When did you last have your monthly courses? The question stops Christabel cold. Her mind races backwards through the months. Was it January, or maybe earlier? But she still can't believe. I've been under tremendous stress. I just assumed. Christabel's head spins as she thinks about the nausea she attributed to nerves, the tightness of her dresses. Can it really be true?
55:24 Matt Forde? Is she going to have a miracle baby?
55:39 Matt Forde? From Wondery and Samizdat Audio, this is the first episode in our series, The Other Virgin Baby.
55:45 Alice Levine? A quick note about our dialogue. In most cases, we can't know exactly what was said, but all our dramatizations are based on historical research.
55:52 Matt Forde? If you'd like to know more about this story, you can read Christabel: The Russell Case After by Eileen Hunter, The Virgin's Baby: The Battle of the Amphil Succession by Bevis Hillier, and Modern Women on Trial by Lucy Bland.
56:05 Alice Levine? And we love hearing from you with comments and suggestions, as we said at the top of the show, so please keep them coming. [email protected] .
56:13 Matt Forde? British Scandal is hosted by me, Matt Ford.
56:15 Alice Levine? And me, Alice Levine.
56:17 Matt Forde? Written by Wendy Granditer. Additional writing by Alice Levine and Matt Ford. Our story editor is James Maniak. Sound design by Dan King. Our engineer is Jai Williams. For Samizdat, our producer is Chika Ayers. Our assistant producer is Louise Mason. Our senior producers are Joe Sykes and Dashar Lissitsina. Executive producers for Wondery are Theodora Leludis, Estelle Doyle, and Marshall Louie.
56:54 Matt Forde? Ghosts aren't real. At least, that's what journalist Tristan Redmond always believed. Sure, odd things happen in his childhood bedroom, but ultimately, he shrugged them off. Until he discovered that he wasn't alone, that everyone who lived thereafter him also had bizarre experiences they couldn't explain. And it gets even weirder. It just so happens that his wife's great-grandmother was murdered in the house next door. Is this ghost somehow
57:19 Speaker 04 connected to her murder? He decides to go where no son-in-law should, digging up a cold case and asking questions that nobody wants answered. Like, could his wife's great-grandfather have gotten away with the perfect crime? This is a podcast about family secrets, overwhelming coincidence, and the things that come back to haunt us. For the best bingeable series like Ghost Story, listen to the Audible True Crime Podcast Wherever you get your podcasts. Audible subscribers can get all episodes early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts. For decades, two legendary brands fought for the hearts of American bikers: Indian Motorcycle and Harley-Davidson. The battle looked a lot like Coke versus Pepsi or Ford versus Chevy, but tastes changed
58:04 Speaker 04 and Indian didn't adapt fast enough. The icon all but died. Then came the Con Men, the Dreamers, a string of spectacular failures that kept Indian in the grave, until one company finally got it right. This is the story of an improbable revival and the reignition of an old rivalry. Hey, I'm David Brown, the host of the podcast Business Wars. And every season, we bring you the true stories behind the companies that shape our world. Indian's new owners are going all in, but an existential crisis looms. Can Indian and Harley recruit enough younger riders to survive? Make sure to follow Business Wars wherever you get your podcasts. Audible subscribers can binge all episodes of Business Wars early and ad-free right now. Join Audible in the Audible app or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts.
Previous Michelle Mone | Update: How Could £122 Million Just Vanish? | 4 Next The Other Virgin's Baby | Hunnish Scenes | 2 Page updated October 31, 2026 · transcript and summary are machine-generated