Wont start with key

I have a manual ford cougar2 that wont start with key but will if I bridge contacts on starter motor. I have checked the ignition black box which the key turns seems to be working fine but wont turn the car over, also I have bridged the contacts on starter motor with ignition on and car will turn over, I can also hear the relay in fuse box click so I guess that works, I can also hear the relay inside the car click so I guess that works. If you have any idea on this I will be very grateful thank you. Also the car is a manual. Thanks keith.