Thomas Weldon Atherstone

[5] He was a classically trained actor who became prominent in music halls during the early 1880s and 1890s, although by the turn of the century his presence in vaudeville had been considerably reduced with the exception of occasional performances, such as poetry readings.

He then began a relationship with American actress Elizabeth 'Bessie' Earle at a flat in London's Battersea around 1899.

[6][7] While Atherstone's career continued declining over the next decade, Earle retired from the music hall and turned to teaching.

[8] Earle remained on friendly terms with Atherstone's elder son, Thomas Frederick Anderson, and when visiting her on the evening of 16 July 1910 for supper, they said they heard gunshots from the yard downstairs.

After calling for the police, it was discovered to be the body of Atherstone, who had been shot twice - once in the lip, and once through his left temple.