The First Doctor and Steven Taylor arrive alongside a Victorian expedition on the site of the dawn of civilisation…

John Pritchard’s tale has something of a literary feel to it, with quotes from Shelley, Dante, and the Bible (Psalm 130 provides the title), and it’s one that has perhaps more resonance now than it might have done even two months ago. With the spotlight currently in part on colonialism and the belief of Empire-builders that they were absolutely right in what they were doing, the actions of those the time travellers encounter can be seen in a fresh light.

Having Peter Purves narrate in character as Steven is always fun to hear (as well as his portrayal of the First Doctor), but it presents a structural problem with this story, given that the time travellers are separated. Pritchard has to rely on the “as he told me later” line to then lead into a straight narration of the scenes at which Steven isn’t present. There’s also reference to the TARDIS translating for the pair – a new series idea that wasn’t mentioned at the time this is set.

Verdict: Those issues aside, this is a fascinating blend of historical and horror fiction with the mores of the time it’s set. 8/10

Paul Simpson

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