Timestamps: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:53 The Story begins 00:46:21 Credits and thanks Stacy Aumonier (1877-1928) was an artist, actor, essayist and author, best known for his highly regarded short stories. He was described by his contemporary John Galsworthy as "one of the best short-story writers of all time". He was born in London into an artistic family of Hugenot descent, his father William Aumonier being a well-known architectural sculptor and his uncle James Aumonier a celebrated landscape painter. For those who'd like to read further, I've put some more detailed biographical notes in the video description.
Entirely too cute of a story! This is nothing at all like stories I am naturally drawn to and would select for myself. In fact, I would have passed it by completely had it not been for Simon narrating it and what a wonderful story I would have missed! Thank you Simon for saving me from my own short sightedness. ❤
Thanks to the story's author, the well-meaning but hapless Miss Bracegirdle wasted the night in a dead man's hotel room. Thanks to that author, I have wasted over 45 minutes. Oh bother!
Millicent Bracegirdle! What a great name. I think next time they ask me my name at Starbucks I'm going to say "Millicent Bracegirdle"😆 Thank you for this fun but intense story Simon. I had a rough day (not as rough as Millicent's) and needed a escape. This did the trick. Hope you have a great holiday. Enjoy the break, you deserve it.😊
How lovely. Miss Bracegirdle had herself an adventure and proved herself, ultimately, resourceful. She had led a restricted life (how could she not with a name like that?) and I hope she'll have more adventures. 😀
Yes. Ultimately she grew in stature from the experience. Such a delightfully quirky and proper lady who found within herself the capacity to withhold facile judgements, the discretion of whom to share her experience with, to query her upbringing , and the presence of mind and resourcefulness to get out of an intolerable situation . Wouldn't it be lovely to see her grow through other tales.
Miss Bracegirdle needs her own series of stories I think...in which she unwittingly becomes involved - and probably has a hand in solving - macabre crimes!
I love the French music at the beginning/end- just perfect & lovely! It reminds me a bit of R. Dahl’s darker stories. That pleasant twist that teaches one deeply about one’s self & others like no other experience could do. I just love all the info & research you put in the text under the video. Truly, an amazing time period to be alive & write, make art, be creative. I hope we get to hear more from this author on your channel! Thank you so much! 🪷
Simon, have a wonderful holiday. Don't worry about anything at home.. We, your faithful viewer fans will keep an eye on the store for you! We'll miss you but realize you must rest up that wonderful silky voice once in awhile. Enjoy.
What a fun story. So descriptive. I felt like I was right there in the middle of the panic. I often fall asleep through most stories and have to back track, but listened straight through this one.
The coyness of Millicent although reflective of the period, was quite comedic in the situation she found herself in, then her deliberation on whether or not to enlighten her brother to the facts or not, must have been quite a conundrum for her, well she certainly had an adventure !! both unexpected & one of secrecy for life, thoroughly enjoyed the tale & as ever your excellent narration, Thank You
Hi, Simon. A story I haven't heard or read narrated by the BEST story teller on the internet. What fun!!! What type acting do you do? Any of that on the internet anywhere? You are a blessing, Simon. Someone I think I would like to know. Thank you for the stories.
Thank you for your lovely comments Tammy. Pre-pandemic my main work was in theatre, with little bits of TV, radio and film along the way. Now audio is my main work! But I'm enjoying it immensely (though I do miss the theatre, and hope to get back there soon....)
Its not what I expected... It also showed the power of prayer... A most intense adventure inside a room.. relieved that it has a happy ending...wow.. Thank you ❤❤.
Yet another quirky little story I’ve never heard before. Many thanks for posting this before your family break,hope you have a wonderful time & thanks again for giving me so many new literal gems to enjoy.✊♥️😊
Lovely to have another story from you, with all the attending information. I had never heard of this author. Perhaps one day the heroine will tell her grandchildren about her adventure!
Simon, the changes you've added to the channel including the introduction to what you do here, how you present the stories, the little musical touches....really nicely done. I think it's made your channel even better and I've been a fan for a long time!
I’m not sure how a google search on Stacy’s sister, Minnie Aumonier (poet and painter) led me here but it was great to discover a Stacy Aumonier short story in excellent audio. The Aumoniers were an extraordinary family of talented artists, craftspeople, actors and writers. It’s hard to comprehend just how famous Stacy Aumonier was for his short stories in the early 20th century, and how almost completely forgotten he is today.
A real little gem of a story! I love those stories where not a lot actually happens eventwise but lots happens in terms of the changing awareness of the protagonist. I’d love you to do some more stories like this, thank you so much 😊 Also I consider myself quite well read but had never heard of this author before!
I absolutely love listening to you narrate these wonderful stories Simon. This Story was wonderful ! I too start saying my Prayers when things go wrong ! 😊 Please Stay Reading to Us Forever ! xx
This was very amusing. A farce really, a comedy of manners, a satire on the stiff respectability and moral anxieties of the age. So different, in subject matter, from the weird and spooky tales I would normally read or listen to, but somehow aligning with them in terms of style and era. Excellent choice. Thank you.
That's great to know, thank you Elias. Yes, it's interesting that this story has over the years gained a reputation as something of a "suspense classic" (even inspiring Hitchcock) when on the surface it appears to be something quite different. Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you Simon for making me step out of my usual paths. A nicely read and nicely written piece with an unexpected intensity - it takes me back to the Morning Story on Radio 4, circa nineteen seventy-cough😄
The Victorian/Edwardian Era's have always fascinated me whether decor, art, literature. Love your storytelling and painting the picture within each story. Blessed Be from Tennessee. )O(
Haha, nice! 😄Tongue in cheek but the author plays it straight, without an exaggerated wink to the audience! (I also feel Simon takes the same approach in rendering the narration)👍 I’d love to read on to see how this episode affected her going forward… Lovely as always, Mr Stanhope!
That was a great story. I laughed out loud. What a callous creature I've become!!!😂 Poor Miss Bracegirdle. She's a terrific character. What a brilliant author Stacey was, may he rest in peace. My grandfather also died of TB although it was in the 1950s when he was in his fifties. Thanks for these stories Simon. You really do read them so very well.
Having finished Christmas at Thompson Hall and then listening to Miss Bracegirdles predicament, I can't help but note the similarities of these charming short stories.
Simon, what an enchanting story! Such a resourceful little lady in a situation that might give even a Modern Woman pause, and so morally generous and upright. I had heard of this story - O. Douglas refers to it in her novel 'Eliza for Common' (published 1928) so it is a particular pleasure to be able to hear it and cross-reference it with the novel.
Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction
00:00:53 The Story begins
00:46:21 Credits and thanks
Stacy Aumonier (1877-1928) was an artist, actor, essayist and author, best known for his highly regarded short stories. He was described by his contemporary John Galsworthy as "one of the best short-story writers of all time". He was born in London into an artistic family of Hugenot descent, his father William Aumonier being a well-known architectural sculptor and his uncle James Aumonier a celebrated landscape painter. For those who'd like to read further, I've put some more detailed biographical notes in the video description.
Thank you for the timestamps! I really like the forwards that you do with bio’s and synopses, both written & voiced!
I cannot begin to express just how much your readings have added to the happiness of my life. Heartfelt thanks. 😊
Ditto 💞
Entirely too cute of a story! This is nothing at all like stories I am naturally drawn to and would select for myself. In fact, I would have passed it by completely had it not been for Simon narrating it and what a wonderful story I would have missed! Thank you Simon for saving me from my own short sightedness. ❤
Same here...excellently put.
We've been there...🥰
Exactly!!Simon’s clever curation of the stories he reads make the all worth a listen!!
This character’s ability to overthink is genius!! 👏🏻📖
Thanks to the story's author, the well-meaning but hapless Miss Bracegirdle wasted the night in a dead man's hotel room. Thanks to that author, I have wasted over 45 minutes. Oh bother!
Oh! the possible endings. Brilliant as your reading held me at the edge of my seat. Thank you.
Your narration of Miss Bracegirdle’s rising panic is absolutely superb. Thank you for such excellent storytelling.
Millicent Bracegirdle! What a great name. I think next time they ask me my name at Starbucks I'm going to say "Millicent Bracegirdle"😆
Thank you for this fun but intense story Simon. I had a rough day (not as rough as Millicent's) and needed a escape. This did the trick.
Hope you have a great holiday. Enjoy the break, you deserve it.😊
💜 with you on that!!! Isn't it faaaaab!
What a jolly story! Wodehouse comes to mind. Thanks so much!
How lovely. Miss Bracegirdle had herself an adventure and proved herself, ultimately, resourceful. She had led a restricted life (how could she not with a name like that?) and I hope she'll have more adventures. 😀
Yes. Ultimately she grew in stature from the experience. Such a delightfully quirky and proper lady who found within herself the capacity to withhold facile judgements, the discretion of whom to share her experience with, to query her upbringing , and the presence of mind and resourcefulness to get out of an intolerable situation . Wouldn't it be lovely to see her grow through other tales.
I found myself smiling all the way through! Thank you for another story by someone I don't think I've heard of.
This was charming, thank you Simon. I thought I had heard the surname "Bracegirdle" before. Sure enough, the Bracegirdles were Hobbits of the Shire.
I was wondering where I had seen the name.
Related to the 18th century actress, Anne Bracegirdle, by any chance?
What a fun little story. I loved that line "It was her duty not to have her head chopped off, if it could possibly be avoided".
‘…. dying just before teatime’ slays me!
Miss Bracegirdle needs her own series of stories I think...in which she unwittingly becomes involved - and probably has a hand in solving - macabre crimes!
Well Miss Bracegirdle is now in the public domain, so no reason why not!
I thought it was hilarious and I really agree with you!👍💛
beneath that rigidly demure and proper exterior lies a tiger of resource, wisdom and discretion.
Something on the spooky side would be delicious!
Google "Misses Bracegirdle's Night of Fear"
I love the French music at the beginning/end- just perfect & lovely! It reminds me a bit of R. Dahl’s darker stories. That pleasant twist that teaches one deeply about one’s self & others like no other experience could do.
I just love all the info & research you put in the text under the video. Truly, an amazing time period to be alive & write, make art, be creative. I hope we get to hear more from this author on your channel! Thank you so much! 🪷
Simon, have a wonderful holiday. Don't worry about anything at home.. We, your faithful viewer fans will keep an eye on the store for you! We'll miss you but realize you must rest up that wonderful silky voice once in awhile. Enjoy.
What a fun story. So descriptive. I felt like I was right there in the middle of the panic. I often fall asleep through most stories and have to back track, but listened straight through this one.
What a lovely story Simon with a little twist in the tail. Not what I usually listen to but I'm glad I did
The coyness of Millicent although reflective of the period, was quite comedic in the situation she found herself in, then her deliberation on whether or not to enlighten her brother to the facts or not, must have been quite a conundrum for her, well she certainly had an adventure !! both unexpected & one of secrecy for life, thoroughly enjoyed the tale & as ever your excellent narration, Thank You
Exactly
The juxtaposition of her absolute earnestness and total ridiculousness - just too much! 👏👏👏
Hi, Simon. A story I haven't heard or read narrated by the BEST story teller on the internet. What fun!!!
What type acting do you do? Any of that on the internet anywhere?
You are a blessing, Simon. Someone I think I would like to know.
Thank you for the stories.
Thank you for your lovely comments Tammy. Pre-pandemic my main work was in theatre, with little bits of TV, radio and film along the way. Now audio is my main work! But I'm enjoying it immensely (though I do miss the theatre, and hope to get back there soon....)
What a nerve racking story. Poor little Miss Bracegirdle!
Its not what I expected... It also showed the power of prayer... A most intense adventure inside a room.. relieved that it has a happy ending...wow.. Thank you ❤❤.
This is my favorite story that Alfred Hitchcock put a new spin on as well! YOURS IS MY FAVORITE SIMON!
I need to find that episode. Do you remember the title of it?
Oh really?! They are currently showing his series on sky arts (in the uk). Would be fun to catch this episode
I first read this story in middle school, which would be about 50 years ago now. How absolutely lovely to hear your rendition of it! Delightful.
I love the little twist about doing "her duty" - it took me a while to work it out, and I'm a vicar!
Fab story , Thank you , I am so glad the little lady had the wherewithal to Brace her Girdle and get herself organised despite that shocking ordeal .
Delightful listen and delightfully read. You're the best, Simon!
This is super funny . I like how this is something that could actualy happen to somebody 😂.
One of the most amusing and thoroughly entertaining short stories I've ever heard. It was as if I was right there with her. Thank you, Simon.
Thanks for listening Bill, glad to know you enjoyed it!
Thanks!
Thank you, much appreciated
Yet another quirky little story I’ve never heard before.
Many thanks for posting this before your family break,hope you have a wonderful time & thanks again for giving me so many new literal gems to enjoy.✊♥️😊
Lovely to have another story from you, with all the attending information. I had never heard of this author. Perhaps one day the heroine will tell her grandchildren about her adventure!
I adored this story of a proper British lady. Such fun.
Simon, the changes you've added to the channel including the introduction to what you do here, how you present the stories, the little musical touches....really nicely done. I think it's made your channel even better and I've been a fan for a long time!
Just what I needed. Thank you Simon 🌺
On pins and needles, excruciating, exquisite!
Delightful thank you Simon
Love it love it love it! Thank you so much Simon- you just get better & better!🌟
Oh, poor Miss Bracegirdle: it’s so cringeworthy! Will I make it through to the end!? 😬
Love all your narrations Simon... Thank you x
I’m not sure how a google search on Stacy’s sister, Minnie Aumonier (poet and painter) led me here but it was great to discover a Stacy Aumonier short story in excellent audio. The Aumoniers were an extraordinary family of talented artists, craftspeople, actors and writers.
It’s hard to comprehend just how famous Stacy Aumonier was for his short stories in the early 20th century, and how almost completely forgotten he is today.
I'm glad you found your way here! Thanks for listening and taking the time to comment
A real little gem of a story! I love those stories where not a lot actually happens eventwise but lots happens in terms of the changing awareness of the protagonist. I’d love you to do some more stories like this, thank you so much 😊 Also I consider myself quite well read but had never heard of this author before!
Thank you so much for this! As usual, you read it beautifully and with subtle humour. I lay in bed and laughed and laughed - a real gem.
That was a lot of FUN. Thank you!
“It is that which takes place in the heart”….. Simon, a heartwarming story and, as always, your voice,- companion of winter evenings.
A charming story, very witty.Beautiful narration by Simon.
Magnifique, cher Simon. Ooh la-la-la la-la la-la-la-la-la!❤
To night’s delight. Looking forward to bed time. Thank you Simon. 😘
Thanks! I’ve been watching for your next installation.
Simply the best storytelling..your voice is so soothing. Background music and really good wee stories. Thank you.x
The very brave Miss Bracegirdle!
Thank you.
I absolutely love listening to you narrate these wonderful stories Simon. This Story was wonderful ! I too start saying my Prayers when things go wrong ! 😊 Please Stay Reading to Us Forever ! xx
Thank you Josephine! I'll do my best!
I think this has got to be my favorite of all of your recordings, both because of this hilarious, charming story and your performance.
Thank you kindly!
How times have changed, loved this & your narration, Many thanks Simon xx
One of my favorites you have narrated. A pleasant cute story!
What a absolute little gem thank u Simon 💜😀
that was great fun and beautifully read Thank you.
Oh yes, and I love all of Simon’s narrations. I am a huge fan.
Thank you for another astonishing introduction to an unfamiliar writer. Agonizingly suspenseful - and sweet, and full of humour, and so well read!
Delightful story, masterfully narrated! Thank you, Simon 🙏
I'm so moved! 😳😍🤯
What an excellent character study of a plot! Brilliant.
That story made me chuckle.. loved it , thank you. 😊
You’re welcome 😊 Glad you enjoyed it
This was very amusing. A farce really, a comedy of manners, a satire on the stiff respectability and moral anxieties of the age. So different, in subject matter, from the weird and spooky tales I would normally read or listen to, but somehow aligning with them in terms of style and era. Excellent choice. Thank you.
That's great to know, thank you Elias. Yes, it's interesting that this story has over the years gained a reputation as something of a "suspense classic" (even inspiring Hitchcock) when on the surface it appears to be something quite different. Glad you enjoyed it
Love the accordion music, very suitable for such a tale.
What a quaint story! Thank you Simon for picking the best ones to delight your readers. 🎩 I’m off to find that Hitchcock adaptation 😁
Thank you Simon for making me step out of my usual paths.
A nicely read and nicely written piece with an unexpected intensity - it takes me back to the Morning Story on Radio 4, circa nineteen seventy-cough😄
A truly delightful comedy. Thankyou and the writer.
Marvelous reading. Spot on! So enjoyable
love this story Simon , did he write more like this as it would be great to listen to them
He certainly did write many stories, and I hope to read some more of them in the future. Thanks JD
@@BitesizedAudio Yes, please.
The Victorian/Edwardian Era's have always fascinated me whether decor, art, literature. Love your storytelling and painting the picture within each story.
Blessed Be from Tennessee. )O(
Haha, nice! 😄Tongue in cheek but the author plays it straight, without an exaggerated wink to the audience! (I also feel Simon takes the same approach in rendering the narration)👍 I’d love to read on to see how this episode affected her going forward…
Lovely as always, Mr Stanhope!
Thanks @grimtt, glad to know you enjoyed it
Thank you for the excellent narration of this delightful story!
Delightful! Thank YOU!!😊
That was a great story. I laughed out loud. What a callous creature I've become!!!😂 Poor Miss Bracegirdle. She's a terrific character. What a brilliant author Stacey was, may he rest in peace. My grandfather also died of TB although it was in the 1950s when he was in his fifties. Thanks for these stories Simon. You really do read them so very well.
Appreciated, thanks Adrienne
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Thanks
Well done! Tjank you for a most enjoyable story.
Marvellous! Bravo as always Simon. Xxxx
Glad you enjoyed it, thanks Laura
This was a completely different story from what I had imagined.
Admirably executed.
Thank you, much appreciated!
🤣🤣🤣🤣 Poor Miss Bracegirdle's imaginings. Thank you.
Such good fun. Thank you Simon.♥️🇦🇺😎
Fabulously charming. Thank you. X
The story and narration are very gripping indeed!
An interesting story, beautifully narrated as always.
Thanks Simon Sir
You're most welcome, thanks for listening and for your kind comments
Brilliant! 👏Both the story and the reading performance.🌸 Thanks. Waiting for the next ones.
What a wonderful story!
Having finished Christmas at Thompson Hall and then listening to Miss Bracegirdles predicament, I can't help but note the similarities of these charming short stories.
Thank you Simon
I really dig the music for this one. And I love your informative intros. Great job.
Thanks Kitty, much appreciated
Brilliant story, brilliantly performed.
Thank you Carole, appreciated
Delightful! More like this please.💕
Simon, what an enchanting story! Such a resourceful little lady in a situation that might give even a Modern Woman pause, and so morally generous and upright. I had heard of this story - O. Douglas refers to it in her novel 'Eliza for Common' (published 1928) so it is a particular pleasure to be able to hear it and cross-reference it with the novel.
Wonderful, thanks Katy. I've heard of O Douglas but don't know that novel. How interesting!
I love your voice and how you read each story. I’m new to your channel and I’m quite enjoying it.
Thanks so much for this story Simon, I so enjoyed it 😀👍
This is hilarious! I switched off some violent tv drama to listen to this story and it is both soothing and amusing!
Thank you
One of your best, I believe.
Excellent as always 👌 💐💐
Thankyou, you are brilliant! As soon as I can afford to, I will show my gratitude by joining your channel. Much love 🌈🌞❤️👍
Absolutely hilarious Thank you so much.
Enjoyed this!
This is hilarious and reminds me of Mr. Pickwick entering the wrong room at the inn.
Excellent reading.