The Stranger on the Bridge The big Town Hall clock was striking midnight when Frank began to
cross the bridge. The night air was cold and damp. A low mist hung over
the river and the street-lamps gave little light.
Frank was anxious to get home and his footsteps rang loudly on the
pavement. When he reached the middle of the bridge he thought he
could hear someone approaching behind him. He looked back but could
see no one. However, the sound continued and Frank began walking
more quickly. Then he slowed down again, ashamed of himself for
acting so foolishly. There was nothing to fear in a town as quiet as
this.
The short, quick steps grew louder until they seemed very near. Frank
found it impossible not to turn round. As he did so, he caught sight of a
figure coming towards him.
After reaching the other side of the bridge, Frank stopped and
pretended to look down at the water. From the corner of his eye he could
now make out the form of a man dressed in a large overcoat. A hat was
pulled down over his eyes and very little of his face could be seen.
As the man came near, Frank turned towards him and said something
about the weather in an effort to be friendly. The man did not answer
but asked gruffly where Oakfield House was. Frank pointed to a big
house in the distance and the stranger continued his way.

The inquiry made Frank suspicious because he knew that the inhabitants
of Oakfield House were very wealthy. Almost without realizing
what he was doing, he began following the stranger quietly. The man
was soon outside the house and Frank saw him look up at the windows. A
light was still on and the man waited until it went out. When about half
an hour had passed, Frank saw him climb noiselessly over the wall and
heard him drop on to the ground at the other side.
Now Frank's worst suspicions were confirmed. He walked quickly and
silently across the street towards a telephone-box on the corner.
Answer these questions:
I. What relationship is there between the plan and the story?
2. Pick out as many details as you can which you think have been included
to make the story interesting.
3. What is the function of the first paragraph in the story?
4. Where is the most exciting part of the story to be found?
5. Show how the paragraphs lead on naturally to one another. How has
this been done ?
6. How does the idea of the bridge give the story its unity?
7. Do you consider the story to be well-balanced? Give reasons for your
answer.
8. How suitable is the title?