Herbert Armstrong - Poisoner

# Herbert Armstrong - Poisoner

## Introduction
- Overview of Major Herbert Rowse Armstrong's case
  - The only UK solicitor executed for murder
  - Historical significance in British criminal justice
- Edgar Wallace's role as a courtroom reporter
  - His journalistic approach to documenting the trial
  - Context of Wallace’s career and influence on true-crime writing

## Part I: The Crime
- Background of Herbert Rowse Armstrong
  - Professional life as a solicitor
  - Personal life and relationships
- The Poisonings
  - First set of poisonings (non-fatal)
    - Victims and circumstances
    - Motives behind the crimes
  - Fatal poisoning incident
    - Victim profile
    - Evidence linking Armstrong to the crime
- Discovery of the Crimes
  - Initial suspicions and investigations
  - Forensic evidence and toxicology reports
  - Arrest of Armstrong

## Part II: The Trial
- Pre-Trial Proceedings
  - Legal strategies employed by Armstrong's defense team
  - Prosecution's preparation and key arguments
- Courtroom Drama
  - Key testimonies from witnesses
    - Medical experts
    - Associates and acquaintances of Armstrong
  - Cross-examinations and dramatic moments
- Public Reaction and Media Coverage
  - Sensationalism surrounding the case
  - Role of newspapers in shaping public opinion
- Edgar Wallace's Observations
  - Insights into the legal system at the time
  - Descriptions of courtroom dynamics and personalities

## Part III: Verdict and Aftermath
- The Jury's Decision
  - Deliberation process
  - Announcement of guilty verdict
- Sentencing and Execution
  - Details of Armstrong's sentencing
  - Execution procedure and its historical context
- Reflections on Justice
  - Critique of the British criminal justice system during that era
  - Ethical considerations regarding capital punishment

## Part IV: Legacy and Cultural Impact
- True-Crime Genre Evolution
  - Influence of cases like Armstrong's on modern storytelling
  - Comparison with contemporary works like *The Salisbury Poisonings*
- Edgar Wallace's Literary Contributions
  - Overview of his extensive body of work
  - Notable creations such as *King Kong* and detective fiction
- Lessons Learned
  - Societal reflections on crime, morality, and justice
  - Enduring fascination with real-life mysteries

## Appendix
- Timeline of Events
  - Chronological summary of key dates related to the case
- Bibliography and Further Reading
  - Recommendations for readers interested in true crime or Edgar Wallace's works