Episode 1.06 “The Search”
Dr. Black stands at the head of the Dining Room table, his face pale, looking around at the confused, uneasy faces around him. Everyone is present, save for Nurse Silver and Fivel.
“My fiancé is missing,” Dr. Black says, “She was very troubled last night as most of you all know.”
“Do you have any idea where she may have gone off to?” Miss Scarlet asks
“We have no reason to believe she would have left Blackwell Grange.” Mr. Ash says
“However,” Professor Plum clears his throat and looks over to Dr. Black, “As you all well know, I am a skilled chemist who tends to dabble every now and then.”
“What Peter is trying to say,” Dr. Black gets to the point, “He was experimenting with a lethal Poison which is now missing.”
The guests mutter amongst each other in panic.
“I don’t want to think my fiancé is suicidal,” Dr. Black says, “But we don’t want to take any risk. She has been unaccounted for since last night and if she is as troubled as we believe she is, then time is of the essence.”
“We need to search the Estate.” Mr. Ash says, “That includes the cellars, attic, all spare rooms, the gardens and forest around the estate.”
“Fivel and Nurse Silver are in the Conservatory.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t want to upset the boy or cause him need to worry.”
“Of course,” Mr. Green nods
“Professor,” Mrs. Peacock stands up, “I suppose you and I could search the cellars.”
“Yes,” Professor Plum stands up
“Mr. Clay and I will search the ground floor.” Miss Scarlet says
“I’ll assist you.” Colonel Mustard says, “I grew up here with Hugh, I know the every nook and cranny.”
“Mrs. White and I will search the bedrooms upstairs.” Mr. Ash says, “No closet will go unturned.”
“The attic?” Yvette speaks up
Mr. Green walks over to the young, French maid, “I’ll help.”
“I need some people to come outside to the gardens,” Rusty says, “The Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, Stables and everywhere else.”
“I’ll go.” Mr. Clay says turning to Miss Scarlet, “You and the Colonel will be able to manage the ground floor on your own.”
“I’ll help outside too,” Miss Peach says, “There is a lot of ground to cover. Mamma, will you come with us?”
Madame Rose looks up from where she has been silently sitting, “Seal the gates if she is still here we don’t need her wandering into town in this state of mind.”
“That leaves the forest to us,” Dr. Black says turning to Mr. Boddy
“There is an old well house south of the Stables.” Rusty says, “Check there.”
“The keys,” Mrs. White touches Rusty’s shoulder
“The keys to the Gate House went missing yesterday.” Rusty announces
“Did you not think to let me know?” asks Dr. Black with anger
“We didn’t want to cause a panic.” Rusty says
“It could have been easily misplaced.” Mrs. White says
“Is there anything else?” Dr. Black asks
There is tense silence in the Dining Room.
“Let’s find her and bring her home.” Dr. Black says
At the top of the stairs leading to the Cellar, Mrs. Peacock and Professor Plum descend carefully.
“We don’t want to startle her.” Professor Plum says, “We can only imagine what she has had to drink and if she dared to take the Poison…”
“She wouldn’t do that.” Mrs. Peacock says, “At least I’d hope not.”
“Would you?” asks Professor Plum
“I don’t wish death upon anyone.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s obvious how much you want Hugh back.” Professor Plum says
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Hugh Black is the one true love of my life. I have since then moved on time and time again but in the back of my mind he will always be the one who got away.”
“After everything he put you through,” Professor Plum says, “Would you trust him again?”
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says with frustration
“Really?” Professor Plum says, “Even after what he is doing to me? He treats me like trash, humiliates me, and you would still love that man?”
“Have you ever been in love?” asks Mrs. Peacock
Professor Plum remains silent
“Don’t pretend to understand this feeling.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I don’t even fully comprehend my feelings, why should you try to.”
“I’m sorry, Patricia,” Professor Plum says, “I was only…”
“I don’t want to hear it right now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Let’s just find Amelia and get on with our lives.”
In the Ballroom, Miss Scarlet and Colonel Mustard enter and turn on the lights. With a small delay, and a flicker and buzz, the chandelier lights up and illuminates the mirror covered Ballroom.
“No one’s been here since Christmas.” Colonel Mustard says noting the dust covering the curtains.
“Fivel plays the piano in here sometimes.” Miss Scarlet motions to the clean piano.
“Amelia didn’t come in here.” Colonel Mustard says
“Someone did.” Miss Scarlet points to the footprints in the dusty floor, leading over to the curtains.
“It was probably Mrs. White opening and closing the curtains.” Colonel Mustard chuckles, “This room is rarely used.”
Miss Scarlet takes one last look around before following the colonel back into the Hall.
“What was it like living here as a child?” asks Miss Scarlet
“It was such a long time ago.” Colonel Mustard thinks back, “I remember hating it at first. My father wanting me to stay with his friends during the war left me feeling safe and protected, but I never really felt welcomed here. Sure, I befriended Hugh straight off the bat, but otherwise I always felt like I was in the way.”
“That’s how I felt with one of my stepfathers.” Miss Scarlet says, “He made me feel worthless and in the way.”
“Your mother told me about Ernest.” Colonel Mustard lowers his vice
“We don’t need to search the Conservatory.” Miss Scarlet changes the subject, “Nurse Silver and Fivel are in there.”
“I suppose the Billiard Room then.” Colonel Mustard scowls
“Are you alright?” Miss Scarlet asks pulling him to the side in the Hall
“No, I am not alright.” Colonel Mustard says, “I barely got a wink of sleep last night and ended up drinking myself straight into morning.”
“I suppose we both are having similar feelings.” Miss Scarlet chuckles, “I got a little out of hand last night too.”
“I’ve just been thinking about how much of my life has been wasted away.” Colonel Mustard says
“What are you talking about?” Miss Scarlet pats him on the back, “You are a dignified war hero!”
“That’s what I feel wasted some of the opportunity.” Colonel Mustard says, “I was once in love.”
“I never pegged you for the romantic type.” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “In fact Hugh and I were both in love with the same woman for a while.”
“That must be an interesting story.” Miss Scarlet says with enthusiasm
“I’ll tell you all about it.” Colonel Mustard chuckles as the two head into the Kitchen, “Her name was Prudence. She was the daughter of Hugh’s governess. Hugh would hardly pay attention during school lessons and would stare at young Prudence.”
“You fell for her too?” asks Miss Scarlet as she opens the pantry and glances quickly
“She had soft, blonde hair and the brightest eyes you could imagine.” Colonel Mustard says, “She looked a lot like you did, Vivienne.”
“Oh, Colonel,” Miss Scarlet smiles, tossing her blonde hair, “You have always been one to banter.”
“So many things unclear.” Colonel Mustard says breathing lightly
“So many, many things unknown.” Miss Scarlet moves closer, locking eyes with Colonel Mustard. He clears his throat as the two back towards the Dining Room doorway.
“Want to know one thing that always bugged me about the Dining Room?” asks Miss Scarlet as she brushes by Colonel Mustard. He follows her into the Dining Room with wandering eyes.
“Those six tall, high-back chairs that are always pushed away from the wall.” Miss Scarlet motions around the Dining Room walls to the six tall, high-back chairs made of hand carved wood and satin cushions.
“Those,” Colonel Mustard walks over to the nearest chair, “Those came from the original set to grace this Dining Room four generations ago. The table was only set for six as this was a family dining room, the main feasting and guest entertaining used to be done on the Ballroom, which at the time was just an encased loggia.”
“They have always looked so special.” Miss Scarlet sits down in one of them, “I always felt these were too fancy to sit in.”
“You look beautiful in that chair.” Colonel Mustard smiles at her
“Thank you,” Miss Scarlet poses proper and poised, almost mimicking the way her stepmother, Mrs. Peacock sits.
“So elegant,” Colonel Mustard dotes, “So ladylike.”
“Perhaps,” Miss Scarlet stands up, “We should stick to our task at hand. Miss Dove doesn’t appear to be in the Ballroom, Dining Room, or Kitchen.”
“The passageways!” Colonel Mustard says
“What?” Miss Scarlet exclaims
“There are secret passageways strewn about the house.” Colonel Mustard says
“Yes I know about the one from the Conservatory to the Lounge,” Miss Scarlet says, “I didn’t realize there were more.”
“These passageways used to just be hallways, basement access points for the servants to use to get quickly in and out of rooms quickly,” Colonel Mustard leads her back into the Kitchen.
“Why are they hidden now?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Someone got a sense of humor and decided to make tunnels from one room to the other.” Colonel Mustard says, “They just aren’t used as service passageways anymore.”
“Is there more in here?” asks Miss Scarlet
Colonel Mustard walks over to a bit of wall paneling near the back door and opens it to reveal a hollowed out part of the wall. Miss Scarlet steps back a little in shock of the passageway before her.
“Hollow walls were common during the prohibition.” Colonel Mustard steps inside, “If we follow this one down it takes us back up to the Study.”
“Should we go?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Well if we want to thoroughly search for Miss Dove, we do.” Colonel Mustard says as Miss Scarlet fully enters the dark cavity with him. The two duck down and descend a few steps to find it easier to wall.
“it’s a clear straight path to the Study.” Colonel Mustard motions to light at the end of the tunnel.
On the second floor, Mrs. White and Mr. Ash hand off candles to Yvette and Mr. Green.
“There is no electricity wired up to the Attic.” Mr. Ash says, “If you draw the curtains open it may help with the light.”
“We keep the curtains drawn because its old and dusty up in the attic.” Mrs. White smiles brightly, brushing her frizzy hair from her eyes and tucking it under her maid’s cap.
“Thanks, Blanche, Reggie,” Mr. Green nods as he turns to the attic stairs with Yvette behind him, “Let’s light this candle.” He takes out his cigar lighter and lights his own candle.
“Go on,” Yvette says clutching her unlit candle, “I’ll be right behind you,”
Mrs. White and Mr. Ash walk past some drapery and into the west wing of the second floor.
“Search through all of the guest bedrooms first.” Mr. Ash instructs, “We do not want to loiter inside of the guests rooms longer than necessary.”
“We don’t want to be accused of stealing again.” Mrs. White chuckles
“Again?” asks Mr. Ash
“I ran into a little trouble with spoons.” Mrs. White says walking down the hallway with Mr. Ash
“Spoons?” asks Mr. Ash
“They were nice spoons.” Mrs. White smiles with fond memories, “I pawned them for a couple pounds.”
“Honestly, Mrs. White!” Mr. Ash clucks in disgust
“Relax, Reggie,” Mrs. White says, “Hugh and I joke about it all the time.”
“I have never once heard you and Hugh joke about your thievery of silver pated spoons.” Mr. Ash says irately
“Oh we never tell our jokes in front of you,” Mrs. White covers her mouth with a chuckle, “I forgot how much of a grumpy man you are.”
Mrs. White chuckles and shrugs as she enters Mrs. Peacock’s bedroom.
Mr. Ash stands confused in the hallway.
Outside in the Garden, Madame Rose tries her best to shift off the uncomfortable feeling around her while Miss Peach chats her ear off. Rusty and Mr. Clay discuss the estate layout and decide on whether to go as a group or split into pairs.
“So, the first thing I thought was how pretty the gardens were and how it felt like ya’ll were just putting on a show for me.” Miss Peach explains to a very distant Madame Rose
“Melba, please,” Madame Rose says, “Not right now. I’m very worried for Miss Dove’s safety.”
“Well, mama, I’m sure she’s alright, just off and startled somewhere.” Miss Peach says
“Sweet child,” Madame Rose touches the back of Miss Peach’s beautiful hair, “You think so positively and with such an optimistic viewpoint.”
“I like to see the good in things.” Miss Peach says, “It brings the good out of people that way too.”
Madame Rose smiles at her daughter as Rusty and Mr. Clay come over.
“Okay,” Rusty says, “Rosie and I will go over to the Swimming Pool and Gate House and Stables, Miss Peach, you and Mr. Clay will go to the Garage, Boat House, Tennis Courts.”
Miss Peach and Mr. Clay nod in understanding.
“We meet back here after we’ve search everywhere.” Rusty says
“What if we haven’t heard anything from the others at that point?” asks Mr. Clay
There is a moment of tense silence.
“We would like to think one of our groups can find her.” Miss Peach says defensively, “Please don’t look for her as if she’s already dead.”
Everyone turns to Miss Peach, who begins to tear up.
“I’m just trying to say,” Miss Peach wipes her eyes and takes a deep breath
“We know,” Madame Rose says shushing her, “You are very very worried for the state of Miss Dove. You don’t want to fear the worst even though none of us know what is happening.”
“What is happening?” asks Miss Peach, “Mama, are you having one of those visions again?”
“Indeed I am, child.” Madame Rose sits on the concrete bench near the fountain in the center of the Garden.
“What are you seeing?” asks Mr. Clay as he hovers on the grass next to Miss Peach, at Madame Rose’s feet. Rusty stands nearby and listens.
“Are you willing to listen to my vision and heed it’s advice?” Madame Rose asks sternly
“Yes of course!” Mr. Clay agrees enthusiastically Miss Peach smiles brightly as they await this prophecy.
“Leave Blackwell Grange!” Madame Rose says with tight, angry lips, “Get out of this place now. Do not prolong the inevitable by searching for a woman who wishes not to be found. And you,” Madame Rose swings her pointed finger to Miss Peach, “I don’t dare search what darkness plagues your path, but I will warn you this, get out of here and take your lies and pretenses with you.”
Miss Peach begins to cry in shock.
“Madame Rose, that is quite simply enough!” Rusty says, “Come, we are going to search the Gate House.”
“Fools,” Madame Rose bows her head and follows Rusty
“Are you alright?” Mr. Clay puts his arm around Miss Peach, “She didn’t mean anything by what she said. Sometimes psychics can get mixed messages.”
“Oh, what do you know!” Miss Peach swats him off of her and stands up, “My mother hates me. She’s not dillusional, she’s right.”
“Right about her predictions about you?” asks Mr. Clay
Miss Peach pulls him in tightly, “I may have gotten myself into a wee little bit of trouble back in America, sugar.” Miss Peach moves her lips closely to his ear, “I need a little time before I tell mama why I am really stopping here at Blackwell Grange.”
“A little time?” Mr. Clay pulls away
“A little time, just a tiny bit of time to get my mind straight.” Miss Peach nods enthusiastically
“What did you do?” asks Mr. Clay as the two head off to the Garage
“I don’t want to talk about it.” Miss Peach says
“I saw your suitcases, they were dusty and dirty.” Mr. Clay says, “You didn’t come straight from a train did you?”
“Mr. Clay, you are a wonderful man and I thank you for being there during my spot of trouble, but you couldn’t save me even if I wanted you to.”
In the Forest between the Stables and the Garage, Dr. Hugh Black and Mr. John Boddy climb through the weeds and shrubbery to find the forest pathway created from the years of walking to the Well House.
“These damned flies,” Mr. Boddy swats around himself
“I must say,” Dr. Black says, “You have put up quite a show up in there.”
“You like it?” Mr. Boddy chuckles
“I see what you think you are achieving,” Dr. Black says, “But you are sadly, lacking in every quality.”
“What do you mean?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Johnny,” Dr. Black says, “Your fast temper, angry slurs, and taunting nearly cost you your life last night!”
“Mr. Green is a bully, all talk, no balls.” Mr. Boddy spits angrily into the brush.
Dr. Black grabs Mr. Boddy by the shoulders and turns him to face him.
“Mr. Green has killed dozens of people and has wanted dozens dead. He gets what he wants and if you don’t pay the debt, you pay with your life.” Dr. Black says
“How did he become your friend?” Mr. Boddy asks
“I paid a debt to him four times over, due to my gratitude for him accomplishing the deed.” Dr. Black says
“What deed?” Mr. Boddy asks, “I thought you only hired him to find my parents?”
“I did.” Dr. Black says
“Then what deed was accomplished?” asks Mr. Boddy, “My mother and father weren’t found there was nothing positive about that trip at all.”
“Oh but we wrapped up another little story while we were there.” Dr. Black says biting his lip, “Involving a certain Prince and his family.”
“Prince Azure?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Yes,” Dr. Black pats Mr. Boddy as they start walking to the Well House again, “You remember Prince Azure? Ah, well you were very young.”
“The name has flown about several times.” Mr. Boddy says
“We happened to run into a little trouble with his friends and family and Mr. Green needed to handle some things, you know, just tend to some old things in the past.”
“He wouldn’t have killed me.” Mr. Boddy says
“Oh yes, he would have.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t know who, but someone here wanted Mr. Green to have you killed.”
Mr. Boddy stares blankly at Dr. Black.
“And unless you figure out what you are doing to piss off this person, then you need to change yourself.” Dr. Black says, “No more of your fast temper, angry slurs, and taunting. That is what has someone wanting you dead!”
“I didn’t…” Mr. Boddy’s voice breaks off
“This isn’t a game of idle threats, you need to take this seriously, because Mr. Green did not tell me who wants you dead.” Dr. Black says
“Is this why your fiancé has disappeared?” asks Mr. Boddy, “Was she on somebody’s bad list too.”
“Watch your tone!” Dr. Black corrects the boy
“I’m just saying, this isn’t a game of idle threats, what if your fiancé pissed off someone here too and Mr. Green got to her.”
Dr. Black slaps Mr. Boddy across the face.
“People don’t just disappear, goddammit!” Mr. Boddy storms off back towards the Mansion leaving Dr. Black alone near the Well House.
In the Cellar, Mrs. Peacock comes to the foot of the stairs from deep within the dirty, dark cellar. She is covered up to her elbows in soot. Her knees and dress are also covered and soot.
“Professor!” she calls out, “I tripped into the coal bin! I’m filthy, I’m gonna go wash up in the Kitchen.”
She gets no response from the dark, labyrinth-like cellar.
“Professor?” she calls out, “Oh, he’s probably in the boiler room or some back room.”
Mrs. Peacock climbs the cellar stairs to see Miss Scarlet and Colonel Mustard coming from the Study.
“Good heavens, Patricia, what happened to you?” Colonel Mustard holds back a chortle
“I took a little swan dive straight into the coal bin.” Mrs. Peacock chuckles, “I’m going to go wash up my hands and face in the Kitchen.”
“We just came from there.” Miss Scarlet motions to the Study, “A secret passage.”
“Really?” Mrs. Peacock takes interest and enters the Study, “To Hugh’s private Study, how queer.”
“It leads to the Kitchen.” Miss Scarlet says
“What reason would a man have, by having his private Study attached to the Kitchen, other than to have an affair with the housekeeper.” Mrs. Peacock says stepping over to the Study bookcase that is slide out.
“Simply thrilling isn’t it?” Miss Scarlet says, “I wonder what century old passageways our home has?”
“This is very interesting indeed.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you for showing it to me, it really brightened my day. I do, however, need to wash up and resume to assisting the Professor in the Cellar, unless you wouldn’t mind trading with me so I can stay above ground and away from the dirt and spiders.”
“I’ll be happy to trade with you.” Colonel Mustard says, “I’ll let Professor Plum know he has a new search partner.”
Colonel Mustard descends into the Cellar via the door underneath the staircase.
“What made you wish to search with me,” Miss Scarlet asks following her stepmother into the Kitchen.
“I figured we needed a moment or two to chat,” Mrs. Peacock turns on the tap and begins to wash her hands and arms
“Yes,” Miss Scarlet says sitting up on the kitchen counter, “I suppose we haven’t had a chat in a good while.”
“Vivienne, get down from the counter.” Mrs. Peacock motions, “Mrs. White probably just cleaned there.”
“I’m clean.” Miss Scarlet hops off the counter, “I’m not the one tracking coal dust and foot prints throughout all of Blackwell Grange.”
“You have so much spite in that tiny little body.” Mrs. Peacock narrows her eyes
“And you’re a bitch.” Miss Scarlet smirks and hops back up on the counter, provocatively lifting her skirt higher up her thigh.
“For god’s sake,” Mrs. Peacock scowls, “What is it you appear to be doing with your dress and your leg?”
“I’m a grown woman,” Miss Scarlet says, “Stop treating me like a child.”
“Oh I stopped treating you like a child when we slept with the same man.” Mrs. Peacock says drying off her hands
“Oh, but you got right back at me for that didn’t you.” Miss Scarlet grinds her teeth
“You slept with Matthew! You slept with MY husband! YOUR own stepfather!” Mrs. Peacock screams, pounding her fists on the table.
“He pressured me into it!” Miss Scarlet says, “I didn’t know what to do.”
“You did it and then you bragged about it.” Mrs. Peacock says
“You slept with my boyfriend.” Miss Scarlet says, “My first love.”
“You vial cunt!” Mrs. Peacock shouts angrily
“You deserved it.” Miss Scarlet says, “And don’t you even think about trying Mr. Clay. I’ve warned Chandler about you and your ways.”
“Did you?” Mrs. Peacock’s face brightens up, “Did he in turn tell you that he has already slept with me?”
Miss Scarlet is speechless
“Yes, Vivienne,” Mrs. Peacock bows before Miss Scarlet, “Your prissy, upright, bitch of an evil stepmother is actually a slutty little whore, just like yourself, only I am classy and you are trashy.”
“You just called yourself a slutty little whore.” Miss Scarlet says after a moment of speechlessness, “I don’t know if I will ever again be able to picture you as classy.”
In the Attic, Yvette lights her candle off of Mr. Green’s lit candle. Mr. Green is crouching down to avoid hitting his head on the low hanging beams.
“Ain’t there an old bedroom up here?” Mr. Green asks looking around at the windows with open curtains.
Yvette shakes her head quickly.
“Well of course there is.” Mr. Green says, “If you look at the attic from the outside of the house there’s that round big window alcove.”
“I think it was there for architectural value.” Yvette says with a shrug, “There is no room with windows like that.
“Sure there is,” Mr. Green points to a door near the front side of the house.
“It is nothing but an old closet.” Yvette takes him by the arm
“Old closet, but with windows.” Mr. Green pulls off of Yvette, “I know there’s a room up here, I guess there’s some good in seeing what Hughie’s hiding.”
“Please,” Yvette follows Mr. Green frantically
Mr. Green reaches the door and turns the handle, opening it.
“Oh my god.” Mr. Green looks around the room he has just entered with shock and worry.
Yvette notices the Lead Pipe sitting on a cardboard box in the attic. Uncertain of its reason for being there and being driven by pure fear, Yvette grabs the Lead Pipe and strikes Mr. Green over the head. Mr. Green hits the floor with a groan and Yvette drags him fully into the room.
To Be Continued…
“My fiancé is missing,” Dr. Black says, “She was very troubled last night as most of you all know.”
“Do you have any idea where she may have gone off to?” Miss Scarlet asks
“We have no reason to believe she would have left Blackwell Grange.” Mr. Ash says
“However,” Professor Plum clears his throat and looks over to Dr. Black, “As you all well know, I am a skilled chemist who tends to dabble every now and then.”
“What Peter is trying to say,” Dr. Black gets to the point, “He was experimenting with a lethal Poison which is now missing.”
The guests mutter amongst each other in panic.
“I don’t want to think my fiancé is suicidal,” Dr. Black says, “But we don’t want to take any risk. She has been unaccounted for since last night and if she is as troubled as we believe she is, then time is of the essence.”
“We need to search the Estate.” Mr. Ash says, “That includes the cellars, attic, all spare rooms, the gardens and forest around the estate.”
“Fivel and Nurse Silver are in the Conservatory.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t want to upset the boy or cause him need to worry.”
“Of course,” Mr. Green nods
“Professor,” Mrs. Peacock stands up, “I suppose you and I could search the cellars.”
“Yes,” Professor Plum stands up
“Mr. Clay and I will search the ground floor.” Miss Scarlet says
“I’ll assist you.” Colonel Mustard says, “I grew up here with Hugh, I know the every nook and cranny.”
“Mrs. White and I will search the bedrooms upstairs.” Mr. Ash says, “No closet will go unturned.”
“The attic?” Yvette speaks up
Mr. Green walks over to the young, French maid, “I’ll help.”
“I need some people to come outside to the gardens,” Rusty says, “The Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, Stables and everywhere else.”
“I’ll go.” Mr. Clay says turning to Miss Scarlet, “You and the Colonel will be able to manage the ground floor on your own.”
“I’ll help outside too,” Miss Peach says, “There is a lot of ground to cover. Mamma, will you come with us?”
Madame Rose looks up from where she has been silently sitting, “Seal the gates if she is still here we don’t need her wandering into town in this state of mind.”
“That leaves the forest to us,” Dr. Black says turning to Mr. Boddy
“There is an old well house south of the Stables.” Rusty says, “Check there.”
“The keys,” Mrs. White touches Rusty’s shoulder
“The keys to the Gate House went missing yesterday.” Rusty announces
“Did you not think to let me know?” asks Dr. Black with anger
“We didn’t want to cause a panic.” Rusty says
“It could have been easily misplaced.” Mrs. White says
“Is there anything else?” Dr. Black asks
There is tense silence in the Dining Room.
“Let’s find her and bring her home.” Dr. Black says
At the top of the stairs leading to the Cellar, Mrs. Peacock and Professor Plum descend carefully.
“We don’t want to startle her.” Professor Plum says, “We can only imagine what she has had to drink and if she dared to take the Poison…”
“She wouldn’t do that.” Mrs. Peacock says, “At least I’d hope not.”
“Would you?” asks Professor Plum
“I don’t wish death upon anyone.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It’s obvious how much you want Hugh back.” Professor Plum says
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Hugh Black is the one true love of my life. I have since then moved on time and time again but in the back of my mind he will always be the one who got away.”
“After everything he put you through,” Professor Plum says, “Would you trust him again?”
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says with frustration
“Really?” Professor Plum says, “Even after what he is doing to me? He treats me like trash, humiliates me, and you would still love that man?”
“Have you ever been in love?” asks Mrs. Peacock
Professor Plum remains silent
“Don’t pretend to understand this feeling.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I don’t even fully comprehend my feelings, why should you try to.”
“I’m sorry, Patricia,” Professor Plum says, “I was only…”
“I don’t want to hear it right now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Let’s just find Amelia and get on with our lives.”
In the Ballroom, Miss Scarlet and Colonel Mustard enter and turn on the lights. With a small delay, and a flicker and buzz, the chandelier lights up and illuminates the mirror covered Ballroom.
“No one’s been here since Christmas.” Colonel Mustard says noting the dust covering the curtains.
“Fivel plays the piano in here sometimes.” Miss Scarlet motions to the clean piano.
“Amelia didn’t come in here.” Colonel Mustard says
“Someone did.” Miss Scarlet points to the footprints in the dusty floor, leading over to the curtains.
“It was probably Mrs. White opening and closing the curtains.” Colonel Mustard chuckles, “This room is rarely used.”
Miss Scarlet takes one last look around before following the colonel back into the Hall.
“What was it like living here as a child?” asks Miss Scarlet
“It was such a long time ago.” Colonel Mustard thinks back, “I remember hating it at first. My father wanting me to stay with his friends during the war left me feeling safe and protected, but I never really felt welcomed here. Sure, I befriended Hugh straight off the bat, but otherwise I always felt like I was in the way.”
“That’s how I felt with one of my stepfathers.” Miss Scarlet says, “He made me feel worthless and in the way.”
“Your mother told me about Ernest.” Colonel Mustard lowers his vice
“We don’t need to search the Conservatory.” Miss Scarlet changes the subject, “Nurse Silver and Fivel are in there.”
“I suppose the Billiard Room then.” Colonel Mustard scowls
“Are you alright?” Miss Scarlet asks pulling him to the side in the Hall
“No, I am not alright.” Colonel Mustard says, “I barely got a wink of sleep last night and ended up drinking myself straight into morning.”
“I suppose we both are having similar feelings.” Miss Scarlet chuckles, “I got a little out of hand last night too.”
“I’ve just been thinking about how much of my life has been wasted away.” Colonel Mustard says
“What are you talking about?” Miss Scarlet pats him on the back, “You are a dignified war hero!”
“That’s what I feel wasted some of the opportunity.” Colonel Mustard says, “I was once in love.”
“I never pegged you for the romantic type.” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “In fact Hugh and I were both in love with the same woman for a while.”
“That must be an interesting story.” Miss Scarlet says with enthusiasm
“I’ll tell you all about it.” Colonel Mustard chuckles as the two head into the Kitchen, “Her name was Prudence. She was the daughter of Hugh’s governess. Hugh would hardly pay attention during school lessons and would stare at young Prudence.”
“You fell for her too?” asks Miss Scarlet as she opens the pantry and glances quickly
“She had soft, blonde hair and the brightest eyes you could imagine.” Colonel Mustard says, “She looked a lot like you did, Vivienne.”
“Oh, Colonel,” Miss Scarlet smiles, tossing her blonde hair, “You have always been one to banter.”
“So many things unclear.” Colonel Mustard says breathing lightly
“So many, many things unknown.” Miss Scarlet moves closer, locking eyes with Colonel Mustard. He clears his throat as the two back towards the Dining Room doorway.
“Want to know one thing that always bugged me about the Dining Room?” asks Miss Scarlet as she brushes by Colonel Mustard. He follows her into the Dining Room with wandering eyes.
“Those six tall, high-back chairs that are always pushed away from the wall.” Miss Scarlet motions around the Dining Room walls to the six tall, high-back chairs made of hand carved wood and satin cushions.
“Those,” Colonel Mustard walks over to the nearest chair, “Those came from the original set to grace this Dining Room four generations ago. The table was only set for six as this was a family dining room, the main feasting and guest entertaining used to be done on the Ballroom, which at the time was just an encased loggia.”
“They have always looked so special.” Miss Scarlet sits down in one of them, “I always felt these were too fancy to sit in.”
“You look beautiful in that chair.” Colonel Mustard smiles at her
“Thank you,” Miss Scarlet poses proper and poised, almost mimicking the way her stepmother, Mrs. Peacock sits.
“So elegant,” Colonel Mustard dotes, “So ladylike.”
“Perhaps,” Miss Scarlet stands up, “We should stick to our task at hand. Miss Dove doesn’t appear to be in the Ballroom, Dining Room, or Kitchen.”
“The passageways!” Colonel Mustard says
“What?” Miss Scarlet exclaims
“There are secret passageways strewn about the house.” Colonel Mustard says
“Yes I know about the one from the Conservatory to the Lounge,” Miss Scarlet says, “I didn’t realize there were more.”
“These passageways used to just be hallways, basement access points for the servants to use to get quickly in and out of rooms quickly,” Colonel Mustard leads her back into the Kitchen.
“Why are they hidden now?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Someone got a sense of humor and decided to make tunnels from one room to the other.” Colonel Mustard says, “They just aren’t used as service passageways anymore.”
“Is there more in here?” asks Miss Scarlet
Colonel Mustard walks over to a bit of wall paneling near the back door and opens it to reveal a hollowed out part of the wall. Miss Scarlet steps back a little in shock of the passageway before her.
“Hollow walls were common during the prohibition.” Colonel Mustard steps inside, “If we follow this one down it takes us back up to the Study.”
“Should we go?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Well if we want to thoroughly search for Miss Dove, we do.” Colonel Mustard says as Miss Scarlet fully enters the dark cavity with him. The two duck down and descend a few steps to find it easier to wall.
“it’s a clear straight path to the Study.” Colonel Mustard motions to light at the end of the tunnel.
On the second floor, Mrs. White and Mr. Ash hand off candles to Yvette and Mr. Green.
“There is no electricity wired up to the Attic.” Mr. Ash says, “If you draw the curtains open it may help with the light.”
“We keep the curtains drawn because its old and dusty up in the attic.” Mrs. White smiles brightly, brushing her frizzy hair from her eyes and tucking it under her maid’s cap.
“Thanks, Blanche, Reggie,” Mr. Green nods as he turns to the attic stairs with Yvette behind him, “Let’s light this candle.” He takes out his cigar lighter and lights his own candle.
“Go on,” Yvette says clutching her unlit candle, “I’ll be right behind you,”
Mrs. White and Mr. Ash walk past some drapery and into the west wing of the second floor.
“Search through all of the guest bedrooms first.” Mr. Ash instructs, “We do not want to loiter inside of the guests rooms longer than necessary.”
“We don’t want to be accused of stealing again.” Mrs. White chuckles
“Again?” asks Mr. Ash
“I ran into a little trouble with spoons.” Mrs. White says walking down the hallway with Mr. Ash
“Spoons?” asks Mr. Ash
“They were nice spoons.” Mrs. White smiles with fond memories, “I pawned them for a couple pounds.”
“Honestly, Mrs. White!” Mr. Ash clucks in disgust
“Relax, Reggie,” Mrs. White says, “Hugh and I joke about it all the time.”
“I have never once heard you and Hugh joke about your thievery of silver pated spoons.” Mr. Ash says irately
“Oh we never tell our jokes in front of you,” Mrs. White covers her mouth with a chuckle, “I forgot how much of a grumpy man you are.”
Mrs. White chuckles and shrugs as she enters Mrs. Peacock’s bedroom.
Mr. Ash stands confused in the hallway.
Outside in the Garden, Madame Rose tries her best to shift off the uncomfortable feeling around her while Miss Peach chats her ear off. Rusty and Mr. Clay discuss the estate layout and decide on whether to go as a group or split into pairs.
“So, the first thing I thought was how pretty the gardens were and how it felt like ya’ll were just putting on a show for me.” Miss Peach explains to a very distant Madame Rose
“Melba, please,” Madame Rose says, “Not right now. I’m very worried for Miss Dove’s safety.”
“Well, mama, I’m sure she’s alright, just off and startled somewhere.” Miss Peach says
“Sweet child,” Madame Rose touches the back of Miss Peach’s beautiful hair, “You think so positively and with such an optimistic viewpoint.”
“I like to see the good in things.” Miss Peach says, “It brings the good out of people that way too.”
Madame Rose smiles at her daughter as Rusty and Mr. Clay come over.
“Okay,” Rusty says, “Rosie and I will go over to the Swimming Pool and Gate House and Stables, Miss Peach, you and Mr. Clay will go to the Garage, Boat House, Tennis Courts.”
Miss Peach and Mr. Clay nod in understanding.
“We meet back here after we’ve search everywhere.” Rusty says
“What if we haven’t heard anything from the others at that point?” asks Mr. Clay
There is a moment of tense silence.
“We would like to think one of our groups can find her.” Miss Peach says defensively, “Please don’t look for her as if she’s already dead.”
Everyone turns to Miss Peach, who begins to tear up.
“I’m just trying to say,” Miss Peach wipes her eyes and takes a deep breath
“We know,” Madame Rose says shushing her, “You are very very worried for the state of Miss Dove. You don’t want to fear the worst even though none of us know what is happening.”
“What is happening?” asks Miss Peach, “Mama, are you having one of those visions again?”
“Indeed I am, child.” Madame Rose sits on the concrete bench near the fountain in the center of the Garden.
“What are you seeing?” asks Mr. Clay as he hovers on the grass next to Miss Peach, at Madame Rose’s feet. Rusty stands nearby and listens.
“Are you willing to listen to my vision and heed it’s advice?” Madame Rose asks sternly
“Yes of course!” Mr. Clay agrees enthusiastically Miss Peach smiles brightly as they await this prophecy.
“Leave Blackwell Grange!” Madame Rose says with tight, angry lips, “Get out of this place now. Do not prolong the inevitable by searching for a woman who wishes not to be found. And you,” Madame Rose swings her pointed finger to Miss Peach, “I don’t dare search what darkness plagues your path, but I will warn you this, get out of here and take your lies and pretenses with you.”
Miss Peach begins to cry in shock.
“Madame Rose, that is quite simply enough!” Rusty says, “Come, we are going to search the Gate House.”
“Fools,” Madame Rose bows her head and follows Rusty
“Are you alright?” Mr. Clay puts his arm around Miss Peach, “She didn’t mean anything by what she said. Sometimes psychics can get mixed messages.”
“Oh, what do you know!” Miss Peach swats him off of her and stands up, “My mother hates me. She’s not dillusional, she’s right.”
“Right about her predictions about you?” asks Mr. Clay
Miss Peach pulls him in tightly, “I may have gotten myself into a wee little bit of trouble back in America, sugar.” Miss Peach moves her lips closely to his ear, “I need a little time before I tell mama why I am really stopping here at Blackwell Grange.”
“A little time?” Mr. Clay pulls away
“A little time, just a tiny bit of time to get my mind straight.” Miss Peach nods enthusiastically
“What did you do?” asks Mr. Clay as the two head off to the Garage
“I don’t want to talk about it.” Miss Peach says
“I saw your suitcases, they were dusty and dirty.” Mr. Clay says, “You didn’t come straight from a train did you?”
“Mr. Clay, you are a wonderful man and I thank you for being there during my spot of trouble, but you couldn’t save me even if I wanted you to.”
In the Forest between the Stables and the Garage, Dr. Hugh Black and Mr. John Boddy climb through the weeds and shrubbery to find the forest pathway created from the years of walking to the Well House.
“These damned flies,” Mr. Boddy swats around himself
“I must say,” Dr. Black says, “You have put up quite a show up in there.”
“You like it?” Mr. Boddy chuckles
“I see what you think you are achieving,” Dr. Black says, “But you are sadly, lacking in every quality.”
“What do you mean?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Johnny,” Dr. Black says, “Your fast temper, angry slurs, and taunting nearly cost you your life last night!”
“Mr. Green is a bully, all talk, no balls.” Mr. Boddy spits angrily into the brush.
Dr. Black grabs Mr. Boddy by the shoulders and turns him to face him.
“Mr. Green has killed dozens of people and has wanted dozens dead. He gets what he wants and if you don’t pay the debt, you pay with your life.” Dr. Black says
“How did he become your friend?” Mr. Boddy asks
“I paid a debt to him four times over, due to my gratitude for him accomplishing the deed.” Dr. Black says
“What deed?” Mr. Boddy asks, “I thought you only hired him to find my parents?”
“I did.” Dr. Black says
“Then what deed was accomplished?” asks Mr. Boddy, “My mother and father weren’t found there was nothing positive about that trip at all.”
“Oh but we wrapped up another little story while we were there.” Dr. Black says biting his lip, “Involving a certain Prince and his family.”
“Prince Azure?” asks Mr. Boddy
“Yes,” Dr. Black pats Mr. Boddy as they start walking to the Well House again, “You remember Prince Azure? Ah, well you were very young.”
“The name has flown about several times.” Mr. Boddy says
“We happened to run into a little trouble with his friends and family and Mr. Green needed to handle some things, you know, just tend to some old things in the past.”
“He wouldn’t have killed me.” Mr. Boddy says
“Oh yes, he would have.” Dr. Black says, “I don’t know who, but someone here wanted Mr. Green to have you killed.”
Mr. Boddy stares blankly at Dr. Black.
“And unless you figure out what you are doing to piss off this person, then you need to change yourself.” Dr. Black says, “No more of your fast temper, angry slurs, and taunting. That is what has someone wanting you dead!”
“I didn’t…” Mr. Boddy’s voice breaks off
“This isn’t a game of idle threats, you need to take this seriously, because Mr. Green did not tell me who wants you dead.” Dr. Black says
“Is this why your fiancé has disappeared?” asks Mr. Boddy, “Was she on somebody’s bad list too.”
“Watch your tone!” Dr. Black corrects the boy
“I’m just saying, this isn’t a game of idle threats, what if your fiancé pissed off someone here too and Mr. Green got to her.”
Dr. Black slaps Mr. Boddy across the face.
“People don’t just disappear, goddammit!” Mr. Boddy storms off back towards the Mansion leaving Dr. Black alone near the Well House.
In the Cellar, Mrs. Peacock comes to the foot of the stairs from deep within the dirty, dark cellar. She is covered up to her elbows in soot. Her knees and dress are also covered and soot.
“Professor!” she calls out, “I tripped into the coal bin! I’m filthy, I’m gonna go wash up in the Kitchen.”
She gets no response from the dark, labyrinth-like cellar.
“Professor?” she calls out, “Oh, he’s probably in the boiler room or some back room.”
Mrs. Peacock climbs the cellar stairs to see Miss Scarlet and Colonel Mustard coming from the Study.
“Good heavens, Patricia, what happened to you?” Colonel Mustard holds back a chortle
“I took a little swan dive straight into the coal bin.” Mrs. Peacock chuckles, “I’m going to go wash up my hands and face in the Kitchen.”
“We just came from there.” Miss Scarlet motions to the Study, “A secret passage.”
“Really?” Mrs. Peacock takes interest and enters the Study, “To Hugh’s private Study, how queer.”
“It leads to the Kitchen.” Miss Scarlet says
“What reason would a man have, by having his private Study attached to the Kitchen, other than to have an affair with the housekeeper.” Mrs. Peacock says stepping over to the Study bookcase that is slide out.
“Simply thrilling isn’t it?” Miss Scarlet says, “I wonder what century old passageways our home has?”
“This is very interesting indeed.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you for showing it to me, it really brightened my day. I do, however, need to wash up and resume to assisting the Professor in the Cellar, unless you wouldn’t mind trading with me so I can stay above ground and away from the dirt and spiders.”
“I’ll be happy to trade with you.” Colonel Mustard says, “I’ll let Professor Plum know he has a new search partner.”
Colonel Mustard descends into the Cellar via the door underneath the staircase.
“What made you wish to search with me,” Miss Scarlet asks following her stepmother into the Kitchen.
“I figured we needed a moment or two to chat,” Mrs. Peacock turns on the tap and begins to wash her hands and arms
“Yes,” Miss Scarlet says sitting up on the kitchen counter, “I suppose we haven’t had a chat in a good while.”
“Vivienne, get down from the counter.” Mrs. Peacock motions, “Mrs. White probably just cleaned there.”
“I’m clean.” Miss Scarlet hops off the counter, “I’m not the one tracking coal dust and foot prints throughout all of Blackwell Grange.”
“You have so much spite in that tiny little body.” Mrs. Peacock narrows her eyes
“And you’re a bitch.” Miss Scarlet smirks and hops back up on the counter, provocatively lifting her skirt higher up her thigh.
“For god’s sake,” Mrs. Peacock scowls, “What is it you appear to be doing with your dress and your leg?”
“I’m a grown woman,” Miss Scarlet says, “Stop treating me like a child.”
“Oh I stopped treating you like a child when we slept with the same man.” Mrs. Peacock says drying off her hands
“Oh, but you got right back at me for that didn’t you.” Miss Scarlet grinds her teeth
“You slept with Matthew! You slept with MY husband! YOUR own stepfather!” Mrs. Peacock screams, pounding her fists on the table.
“He pressured me into it!” Miss Scarlet says, “I didn’t know what to do.”
“You did it and then you bragged about it.” Mrs. Peacock says
“You slept with my boyfriend.” Miss Scarlet says, “My first love.”
“You vial cunt!” Mrs. Peacock shouts angrily
“You deserved it.” Miss Scarlet says, “And don’t you even think about trying Mr. Clay. I’ve warned Chandler about you and your ways.”
“Did you?” Mrs. Peacock’s face brightens up, “Did he in turn tell you that he has already slept with me?”
Miss Scarlet is speechless
“Yes, Vivienne,” Mrs. Peacock bows before Miss Scarlet, “Your prissy, upright, bitch of an evil stepmother is actually a slutty little whore, just like yourself, only I am classy and you are trashy.”
“You just called yourself a slutty little whore.” Miss Scarlet says after a moment of speechlessness, “I don’t know if I will ever again be able to picture you as classy.”
In the Attic, Yvette lights her candle off of Mr. Green’s lit candle. Mr. Green is crouching down to avoid hitting his head on the low hanging beams.
“Ain’t there an old bedroom up here?” Mr. Green asks looking around at the windows with open curtains.
Yvette shakes her head quickly.
“Well of course there is.” Mr. Green says, “If you look at the attic from the outside of the house there’s that round big window alcove.”
“I think it was there for architectural value.” Yvette says with a shrug, “There is no room with windows like that.
“Sure there is,” Mr. Green points to a door near the front side of the house.
“It is nothing but an old closet.” Yvette takes him by the arm
“Old closet, but with windows.” Mr. Green pulls off of Yvette, “I know there’s a room up here, I guess there’s some good in seeing what Hughie’s hiding.”
“Please,” Yvette follows Mr. Green frantically
Mr. Green reaches the door and turns the handle, opening it.
“Oh my god.” Mr. Green looks around the room he has just entered with shock and worry.
Yvette notices the Lead Pipe sitting on a cardboard box in the attic. Uncertain of its reason for being there and being driven by pure fear, Yvette grabs the Lead Pipe and strikes Mr. Green over the head. Mr. Green hits the floor with a groan and Yvette drags him fully into the room.
To Be Continued…