Madeleine Smith on Trial

<p> In 1855 Glasgow socialite Madeleine Smith began a flirtation with Pierre L'Angelier a handsome clerk--for her a mere diversion. But L'Angelier sought social mobility. Their class disparity gave her control of the intrigue but when the relationship turned sexual the power imbalance shifted.</p><p>The Scots recognized irregular unions in certain cases. L'Angelier considered Smith his wife a part she at first discreetly played. When he refused to step aside and allow her a more socially acceptable marriage his removal became necessary.</p><p> Smith's sensational murder trial captivated both Britain and America. Despite compelling evidence of guilt various factors led to her acquittal--her class and gender the peculiarities of Scottish law--and many believed the case went to trial only because the Crown feared blatant confirmation that justice was not blind.</p>