"Murder in the Manse" depicts life in the small town of Halifax where nothing unusual ever occurs, and it also paints a vivid picture of the raw prejudice which its inhabitants hold toward new-comers. Suddenly shocking news spreads like fire over the town, news that the first murder in over a century has occurred in their midst. To make matters even more shocking the murder occurs in the manse (home) of the new pastor and wife. The decision as to the guilt or innocence of the suspect is decided in the prejudiced minds of the citizens of the town long before the murder trial begins. Each day as the trial progresses more and more suspense is built up in their minds and hearts. The unusual methods used by the defense attorney keeps the attention of those present in the court room. The unexpected turn that the trial takes at the very last brings about an unexpected effect on every citizen of the small of Halifax.
