The Diary of Dr Pritchard

Originally Aired: October 6, 1952 Suspense #481, "The Diary of Dr Pritchard," presents the chilling true story of a Victorian-era physician who uses his medical knowledge for sinister purposes. Dr. Edward Pritchard appears to be a devoted family man, meticulously recording his thoughts in a diary while tending to his household. When the upstairs maid Lily dies in what Pritchard claims is a tragic fire, he quickly hires a new servant, the forward young Ellen. Soon after moving his family to a new home, Pritchard's wife Mary begins experiencing mysterious and increasingly severe symptoms—terrible pain, nausea, and frightening seizures. Though Pritchard claims to be treating her with tonics and sedatives, Mary only grows worse. As Mary's condition deteriorates, suspicions begin to mount. Her mother Mrs. Taylor arrives from Edinburgh, deeply concerned about her daughter's sudden decline from perfect health. She confronts Pritchard about his treatment, while family friend Dr. Gardner questions the diagnosis. With Ellen receiving expensive gifts and enjoying evening outings with the doctor, and Mary screaming in agony while her husband urges her to control herself, the true nature of Pritchard's devotion becomes terrifyingly clear.