The Case of the Stuttering Bishop

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The Case of the Stuttering Bishop is a mystery novel written by Erle Stanley Gardner, featuring his famous character, Perry Mason, a shrewd and skilled lawyer. First published in 1936, the novel is one of the many in the Perry Mason series that delves into the intricacies of legal drama and criminal investigation. The story revolves around a bishop with a stutter who brings a complex case to Mason, involving identity theft, inheritance fraud, and murder.

Plot Summary

The narrative begins when Perry Mason is visited by a man claiming to be Bishop William Mallory, who has a noticeable stutter. The bishop presents Mason with a peculiar case: a young woman named Janice Seaton claims to be the long-lost granddaughter of a wealthy client. However, her identity is being contested, and there are suspicions of foul play and deception. As Mason digs deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of deceit involving multiple suspects with motives for fraud and murder. The investigation leads Mason into dangerous territory, challenging his legal acumen and putting his detective skills to the test.

Characters

• Perry Mason - The protagonist, a defense attorney known for his cunning and determination.
• Della Street - Mason's loyal secretary and confidante, who assists him in his investigations.
• Paul Drake - A private detective and friend of Mason, who aids in gathering evidence.
• Bishop William Mallory - The stuttering bishop who brings the case to Mason.
• Janice Seaton - The young woman at the center of the inheritance and identity controversy.
• Other characters include various suspects, law enforcement officials, and legal professionals who play roles in the unfolding mystery.

Themes

The novel explores themes of identity, deception, and the pursuit of justice. Gardner uses the character of the stuttering bishop to introduce the complexities of human nature and the ease with which appearances can be manipulated. The legal and investigative procedures depicted in the book highlight the challenges of discerning truth in a world where evidence can be fabricated and identities falsified.

Reception

The Case of the Stuttering Bishop has been praised for its intricate plot and the development of Perry Mason as a character. Gardner's ability to weave legal knowledge into a compelling narrative has made this book, and the series as a whole, a staple for fans of legal mysteries. Critics have noted the novel's pace, its engaging storyline, and the depth of its central and supporting characters.

Adaptations

The novel has been adapted into other media, including a film in 1937 and episodes of the television series Perry Mason. These adaptations have varied in their faithfulness to the source material but have contributed to the enduring popularity of Perry Mason as a cultural icon in American mystery and legal drama.

See Also

• Erle Stanley Gardner
• Perry Mason TV series
• Legal drama
• Mystery novel