Episode 2.01 “Eleven Days Later”
A wooden ship pierces its way across the blue water. The front of the massive ship is adorned with the wood carving of a hippopotamus, decorated in gems and ivory. The flags are dark blue with gold trimmings. Standing at the Port side, Prince Philippe Azure stands regally as he narrows his eyes, viewing the bright horizon.
“Your father would be so pleased to see you setting Sekhmet’s Tears out to sail.” Prince Azure’s royal advisor, Mr. Saffron inhales deeply as he walks to the doors leading inside the aft of the Ship. Prince Azure follows after a moment of reflection.
“How much further?” asks Prince Azure, stepping into his private Study. Mr. Saffron draws open the curtains to reveal the breath-taking sight of the ocean and the frothy trail that the ship leaves behind. Prince Azure sits down in a high back chair and picks up a novel from his cluttered desk.
“We’ve half a week before we reach Plymouth.” Mr. Saffron says, “From there it’s a train ride to Hampshire.”
“Do you understand your instructions?” asks Prince Azure
“Your highness, your instructions are unable to be carried out.” Mr. Saffron protests politely, “In order for me to be able to snatch the girl…”
“We will get to the memorial in time.” Prince Azure says with unwavering certainty
“You don’t even know if she is going to be there.” Mr. Saffron says beginning to get impatient, “You are grasping at air for answers now that Dr. Black is dead!”
“Mr. Saffron,” Prince Azure walks over to the windows and stares out, “Remind me, who was the last man I interrogated?”
“I believe it was a man by the name of Waddington, your highness.” Mr. Saffron says taking the book from Prince Azure’s hand and placing it back in its rightful slot on the bookshelf.
“Do you remember what happened to this man named Waddington?” asks Prince Azure
“Perhaps I should hear it from you,” Mr. Saffron bows his head, “Your wisdom might retell the tale so well,”
“Enough,” Prince Azure snaps, “I won’t have you mocking me.”
“Then what will you have me do?” asks Mr. Saffron dropping all formalities, “You are asking me to do something that we do not have all the information on. You are putting the cart before the horse.”
“To hell with the cart. To hell with the horse.” Prince Azure says, “To hell with the horseman too.”
“I take it in this scenario, I am the horseman?” asks Mr. Saffron
“I will act cordial to her face and greet her with respect and dignity.” Prince Azure offers a hand to Mr. Saffron in a demonstrative way.
“But deep down you want me to slice her throat to the bone.” Mr. Saffron says, “We’ve been over this a dozen times. I understand what you want me to do and why you want me to do it. I am just having trouble seeing the timeline playing out the way we want it to. As your royal advisor, I strongly suggest you rethink the way you are going to go about handling this.”
“Dr. Black was supposed to be the one to set up a mutual gathering.” Mr. Saffron says, “I suppose his death ended up being a mutual gathering. Let’s just assume our roles and avenge Lawrence’s death.”
Many miles north of Prince Azure’s ship, in the Gate House of Blackwell Grange, Mrs. White hurries down the wooden staircase into the main living area of the Servant’s Quarters. She sees Rusty at the large stone fireplace stacking freshly cut wood.
“Has Reggie started the day already?” asks Mrs. White
“Aye,” Rusty nods, resting his small Axe against his shoulder, “I caught him out by the Well House at nearly half-past five this morning. I don’t think he saw me.”
“What on earth were the two of you doing by the Well House?” asks Mrs. White
“I was collecting wood.” Rusty says, “I just finished cutting them half an hour ago.”
“Goodness,” Mrs. White takes her apron from a peg on the wall, “I over-slept.”
“You haven’t gotten much sleep since Hugh died.” Rusty says, “Perhaps you should slow down.”
“I can’t.” Mrs. White says, “With the lawyer coming by with the paper work and the house hold chores, I can’t afford to slow down.”
“Mrs. Peacock made Mr. Ash rearrange the entire Library yesterday.” Rusty says dropping the axe to the floor and resuming his wood stacking, “If you ask me, it seems as though the black widow has plans to stay here a lot longer than the will stipulates.”
“It takes a while to warm up to her, but in the end she is a great friend and loyal confidante,” Mrs. White says, “However she does have a strange mindset on her priorities. She loves that Library an awful lot, doesn’t she.”
“It’s where she and Hugh used to shag each other.” Rusty says
“Don’t be vulgar!” Mrs. White hits him on the arm, “I ought to wash your mouth out with soap. And another thing, I don’t want you talking bad about Mrs. Peacock. She’s the lady of the house until Mr. Boddy’s eighteenth birthday. We need to make sure our jobs are secured until then.”
“Everyone hates her.” Rusty says
“Not everyone.” Mrs. White defends
“Her stepdaughter cringes at the thought of her.” Rusty says
“Miss Vivienne is not in a good frame of mind right now,” Mrs. White warns, “After what happened between her, Mr. Clay, and Nurse Silver, it won’t take much for her to breakdown completely. We need to be sensitive.”
Rusty silently resumes to his task as Mrs. White finishes tying her apron.
“Make sure to open the gate for Mr. Meadow-Brook.” Mrs. White says as she exits the Gate House.
In the Hall of Blackwell Grange, Miss Peach skips down the staircase and straight down the Hall towards the front doors. Sir Benedict Black IV comes from the very smoky Billiard Room. Colonel Mustard can be seen tossing back a drink in the background.
“Good morning, grandfather.” Miss Peach does a twirl in her sundress.
“Melba, you look radiant.” Sir Benedict smiles at his young granddaughter, closing the Billiard Room door behind him.
“I’m meeting Stuart’s father today.” Miss Peach smiles with excitement
“Lord Gray is hard to please.” Sir Benedict chuckles, “Don’t be too off-put by him.”
“I think I’ll manage just fine.” Miss Peach smiles, “Back where I grew up nobody was intimidated by nobody. Southern belles and rodeo boys, we all knew how to sling a gun and hold up a fight.”
“That seems to be pure contrast to the way we see you when you are here at Blackwell Grange.” Sir Benedict walks towards the front doors, taking Miss Peach on his arm in the process.
“I like to dress fancy every now and then.” Miss Peach says, “But don’t act too startled if you see me riding around with no saddle. Was that Colonel Mustard I just saw in there?”
“Give him his space.” Sir Benedict says, “He is very drunk and very quick to shift blame.”
“Uh oh,” Miss Peach frowns, “Should I have Stuart keep an eye on him.”
“Maybe just for the sake of the people attending the memorial.” Sir Benedict says, “I don’t want any altercations. I’m still on edge over that Brunette fellow.”
“As am I.” Miss Peach says, “I feel like he’s after me still.”
“I don’t know if he was ever after you in the first place.” Sir Benedict shrugs, “He seems to strike at random when he took Nurse Silver.”
In the Study, Mrs. Peacock and Miss Scarlet sit behind the desk. They look eagerly at each other and then to a tall, bald man in a business suit. He wears a sea-foam colored tie with a matching pocket square. Embroidered on the pocket square, in a dark green thread, are the initials ‘M.M-B’. He is the lawyer to the late Dr. Hugh Black, Miles Meadow-Brook. He thumbs through Hugh Black’s will one last time and proceeds to slowly remove his glasses. He fumbles around with them for a bit, causing Miss Scarlet to clear her throat impatiently. Mrs. Peacock shoots her a look of disgust.
“Legally there is no mention at all of Madame Rose or Sir Benedict.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I cannot force you to make them stay here at Blackwell Grange, but I highly suggest that you do not kick them out.”
“Housing isn’t an issue,” Miss Scarlet holds up her hand, “They are welcome to stay. I’m more concerned with the sizable sum and what my budget should be.”
“You would need to talk to his accountant, Mr. Slate-Grey.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Wonderful,” Miss Scarlet says, “Leave his number, I’ll call him later.”
“More legal nonsense?” Mrs. Peacock stands up, “Hugh Black’s memorial is this afternoon. The man was barely cold and you were drawing lots over who was going to inherit.”
“We did not draw lots!” Miss Scarlet says crossing her arms
“Colonel Mustard lost £10 to Mr. Green.” Mrs. Peacock crosses the room and opens the door to the Hall, “I don’t need to deal with this right now.”
“I’m just looking out for us!” Miss Scarlet stands up, meeting her at the door to the Hall, “Stay and talk to Mr. Meadow-Brook. I can see I’m upsetting you. I’ll see if I can find John.”
She exits, slamming the door.
“She’s going through a rough time.” Mrs. Peacock says returning to the chair in front of the desk, “Her boyfriend left her after that incident with Nurse Silver.”
“I thought it was proven Miss Scarlet did not push her?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Mr. Clay seems to think differently.” Mrs. Peacock shrugs
“Or he was persuaded to think differently.” Mr. Meadow-Brook chuckles, “You know how deceptive jealous people can be.”
“So, just to be clear with what my stepdaughter asked,” Mrs. Peacock says tracing her fingers carefully along the fabric of the chair she sits in, “There is no budget regarding my recent access to Hugh’s funds?”
“Just be careful,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says staring sternly at her, “I don’t want to see a war between you and the relatives to Hugh. I’m sure there is already tension in the air.”
“Everything is fine.” Mrs. Peacock smiles brightly, “We are all on good terms.”
“No disrespects, but I find that very hard to believe.” Mr. Meadow-Brook stacks the paperwork and stands up from the desk, “If you’ll excuse me, I need to speak with some other household members.”
“Of course,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you, Miles. I’ll be sure to have your wife over for tea soon.”
“Jane would love that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She seems to have grown distant from her friends. Being social might do her some good.”
In the Billiard Room of Blackwell Grange, Colonel Mustard stares silently out the windows. He holds an empty glass in his right hand. The sticky residue at the bottom suggests that of whiskey or brandy. It is evident he hasn’t slept in days. He turns his attention to the lamp above the billiard table. He grips the glass tightly upon noticing how crooked the lamp hangs, due to Yvette’s suicide.
“Have you been in here all night?” Mr. Green enters the Billiard Room from outside on the Terrace.
“Couldn’t sleep.” He grumbles, dragging himself over to the bar.
“Hey, buddy, don’t you think you’ve had enough.” Mr. Green puts his hand on Colonel Mustard’s shoulder.
“Lyman, we have been good friends for many years,” Colonel Mustard says, “Never get between me and alcohol if you want that friendship to continue.”
“Mike…” Mr. Green sighs, “Not today. Hugh wouldn’t want you to suffer this way.”
“You didn’t know Hugh like I knew Hugh.” Colonel Mustard barks, grabbing the open bottle of whiskey, “No one knew Hugh the way I did! Hugh knew me and he knew exactly what his death would do to me. Mr. Green, either help me pour or get out of my sight.”
In the Garage, Rusty opens the large double-doors dragging the Garden Shears on the ground behind him. Miss Peach stands in the Garden with a tall oriental woman in a light purple kimono. They both watch as Rusty approaches Mr. Ash inside. Mr. Ash removes a Hammer from the toolbox inside the front seat of the automobile parked inside the Garage.
“Are the guests awake?” asks Rusty, setting the Garden Shears on the tool bench.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook was here bright and early.” Mr. Ash says, “I have to run this to Mrs. Peacock’s bedroom. She has some family photo’s she would like to hang up.”
“She seems to be getting comfortable here.” Rusty says opening the window next to the tool bench, “Did I see you out in the woods this morning?”
“No,” Mr. Ash says, “Why would I be out in the woods. The precipice past the Well House is dangerous. I haven’t ventured into the woods since we lost our last horse.”
Rusty eyes him for a moment, “Well if it wasn’t you then it was someone with a similar build.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook and I have been told we have similar body types.” Mr. Ash says, “Perhaps he was poking around the woods.”
“It couldn’t be Brunette could it?” asks Rusty
“It’s been eleven days since Nurse Silver encountered him.” Mr. Ash says, “Brunette is a long way away from here.”
In a dark room with a rough, wood interior, Monsieur Alphonse Brunette lays on a bed staring at the ceiling of the candle-lit room. His shoulder is bandaged and his facial hair has become unkempt.
“This is bullshit,” he sits up and walks over to his door. The door opens and a burly man with breath smelling of rum pushes his way in.
“You know damn well I don’t want to talk to you!” Monsieur Brunette says, “Move out of my way, I need to talk to someone.”
“We are long over-due for a talk.” The man says closing the door behind him.
“Why did we change course?” asks Monsieur Brunette, “Why aren’t we heading back to Africa?”
“We aren’t going to Africa.” The man says, “Prince Azure is making his way to Blackwell Grange.”
“When you picked me up you said we were going back!” Monsieur Brunette waves his arms fiercely about, “Godammit! Why must you always interfere with my life. I just wanted a quiet passage back to Africa. Azure would understand.”
“His royal highness commanded this ship be brought to Plymouth this very evening.” The man says, “An impossible task if you ask me.”
There is silence between the two.
“Have you heard from your brother?” the man stumbles around for his words, “I… I haven’t heard from him since your mother died.”
“Not now,” Monsieur Brunette turns away and opens his side table drawers.
“I loved your mother.” The man says, holding back an outpour of emotions.
“You left us to sail the seas.” Monsieur Brunette says, “If you are expecting me to throw my arms around you and call you father…” Monsieur Brunette pulls a knife out of the drawer of the cabinet and points it at him, “Stay out of my way. I need to get the hell off of this ship before it reaches England.”
“We are in the middle of nowhere.” The man says, “I should know, I’ve been sailing us the entire time.”
“Drunk and wobbly?” Monsieur Brunette conceals the knife up his sleeve.
“I’ve only had a drop of rum!” The man, his father, Captain Brown hiccups slightly.
“Don’t worry,” Monsieur Brunette takes the short, round man by the shoulders, “I will not harm his royal highness. Philippe and I are old friends. He saved my ass back when Hugh Black tried to have it thrown in jail for his mutilations. I’m sure he understands that I cannot go back to the place that I narrowly escaped. You mentioned my brother? Yes, Winfield is doing wonderfully. He works for Scotland Yard and he has been chasing me ever since Hugh Black was killed by their household maid. He probably has Interpol after me by now. I would also like you to take notice in one very crucial fact – I have never harmed anyone. I have threatened and conned my way through everything. I didn’t even learn how to unload a pistol until recently. I am not ready for you to put on one of your fatherly displays! Turn this ship back where it needs to go.”
“Prince Azure would never let me live that down.” Captain Brown says, “You need to face your brother. Explain to him what you explained to me. Winfield is a perfectionist. He doesn’t go on gut or instinct; he goes off of evidence and facts. You claim to have just been in the wrong place at the wrong time…” Captain Brown sits down on the edge of the bed with a prolonged grunt, “… maybe you can convince the world that you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
“It just seems so unlikely for any jury to believe that bad luck just chases me around.” Monsieur Brunette says, “I think back on every single one of my mistakes and realize how blinded by my own self-gratification I was. I could have avoided every single crime I’m being hunted for.”
“It’s not too late to become the person you want to be.” Captain Brown says
“Turn the ship around.” Monsieur Brunette says, “Please? For once do something for your family.”
Captain Brown stands up from the bed and exits the room, turning around to face him from the hallway, “Stay away from Prince Azure. I don’t want to see you treated like the last man to stay in that room.”
Monsieur Brunette looks around the room with shocked curiosity.
“I suppose it’s time to search more thoroughly.” Monsieur Brunette looks out into the hallway to see Captain Brown has already disappeared.
In his bedroom at Blackwell Grange, Mr. John Boddy sits in his armchair reading a book.
“Knock, knock,” Miss Scarlet enters his room, whilst knocking. She is wearing a short red skirt and a white button down shirt. She is carrying a Tennis Racquet.
“You sure love to barge right on in,” Mr. Boddy closes his book and stands up, “Won’t you be cold dressed like that?”
“Why ever would I be cold?” asks Miss Scarlet, “It’s hot outside. Open up a window.” She rushes across his room, tossing the Tennis Racquet on his perfectly smooth blanket. She unlocks and rolls up the window, allowing a sweet autumn breeze to flow into the room.
“I’d rather you didn’t.” Mr. Boddy snatches the Tennis Racquet and carefully smoothes the wrinkles out of his blanket, “The smell of the lawn trimmings is bloody awful!”
“It’s wonderful!” Miss Scarlet takes his hand and rushes him over to the door
“What are you doing with me.” Mr. Boddy pulls away, “Why are you so damn hyper?”
“Let’s play tennis.” Miss Scarlet says, “It’s a beautiful day.”
“It’s Uncle Hugh’s memorial for Christ’s sake!” Mr. Boddy brushes himself off, “I’m standing here dressed in black… you look like an alleyway whore!”
Miss Scarlet snatches the Tennis Racquet from him and angrily exits the room. The door slams loudly knocking a picture off the wall and onto the floor. The glass breaks. Mr. Boddy walks over to the picture to see a family photograph taken the Christmas before his parents disappeared. He bends over and touches the cracked and broken glass with his fingers. He runs his other hand along the smooth, papery faces of his parents. He closes his eyes and tears begin to drip down his face. He opens his eyes and sees Hugh Black standing behind his mother in the picture. He grabs the picture and throws it across the room. The frame and remaining glass shatter and give out as it makes contact with the wall. Miss Scarlet reenters the room.
“Leave me alone!” Mr. Boddy rushes across his room and opens the door near the back of his room. He enters the small dressing room and splashes water on his face from the basin. He then grabs a towel and looks at himself in the long mirror.
Miss Scarlet enters and slowly sits down on the gold-legged ottoman in the center of the dressing room.
“I just wanted to try and cheer you up.” Miss Scarlet looks down at her feet as she swings the tennis racquet back and forth.
Mr. Boddy turns around with fire in his eyes, “Take it off.”
Miss Scarlet stands up in startled shock, holding the Tennis Racquet in front of her, as it for protection.
“I know what you are here for.” Mr. Boddy says backing her into the corner. Miss Scarlet whimpers, “You and your bitch of a stepmother want to keep Blackwell Grange forever. You think if you fuck me enough I’ll write you into the will and then your stepmother and you can dispose of me just like The Black Widow does.”
“Please,” Miss Scarlet stammers
“Please, what?” Mr. Boddy shouts
Miss Scarlet tries to break free but knocks over his water basin, sending glass and water across the bathroom floor. Mr. Boddy pounces on her. She strikes him with the Tennis Racquet and rushes out of his Dressing Room, bumping into Mr. Meadow-Brook as she exits Mr. Boddy’s bedroom and into the upstairs hall. Mr. Meadow-Brook watches Miss Scarlet run away, dripping wet, bleeding and carrying the Tennis Racquet. Mr. Meadow-Brook enters the dressing room to see Mr. Boddy helping himself off the floor and onto the ottoman. The side of his head is bleeding, though the bleeding looks much worse due to the watery mixture from the basin’s spillage. He has cuts on his hands and fingers from the broken glass on the floor. His right pants leg is torn at the knee.
“Getting yourself into mischief?” Mr. Meadow-Brook grabs a towel and tosses it to Mr. Boddy
“Platinum blonde slut!” Mr. Boddy growls in anger
“Was she trying to make herself an heiress?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks
“She was trying to seduce me, just like her stepmother did last night.” Mr. Boddy says
“Sex is their strongest weapon.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “They know you are a red-blooded teen on the cusp of becoming a red-blooded man.”
“I couldn’t be more disgusted by their insatiable lusts!” Mr. Boddy growls standing up and reentering his bedroom. Mr. Meadow-Brook follows.
“Just be careful.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Mrs. Peacock says everyone was happily living together and I knew from the moment she said it, that she was planning something. Miss Scarlet is vulnerable and weak. She has most likely been medicating herself to stay upbeat and happy.”
“Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay appear to have become a hot item.” Mr. Boddy smirks
“You enjoy that?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“It was fun to watch Miss Scarlet get walked out on.” Mr. Boddy chuckles
“Just try to stay on good terms with them.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “At least until your birthday?”
“I’ll do my best.” Mr. Boddy rolls his eyes, “But I’m locking my doors at night.”
“I would think it unwise to leave them unlocked.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
At the Gazebo, Professor Plum stands looking over the railing and at the lake. Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay sit dressed in black. Professor Plum takes off his glasses and places them in his top pocket.
“I see some people don’t understand the etiquette of a memorial.” Nurse Silver motions to Lady Lavender and Miss Peach who stand in the Garden dressed as if they were attending a garden party.
“Miss Scarlet was dressed in tennis clothing.” Professor Plum says, “I’m not sure if she has changed yet. I saw her going into the house.”
“Oh, I forgot to mention, I’m not going to be staying for long.” Nurse Silver says, “Sadly, I have some important business to attend to.”
“Medical emergency?” asks Professor Plum
“It’s actually family related.” Nurse Silver says
FLASHBACK – 11 DAYS AGO –
Nurse Silver lays in Mr. Clay’s arms.
“She’s dead to me!” Mr. Clay says, “I can’t believe her own insecurities would cause her to go to such lengths.”
“Everyone thinks it was an accident.” Nurse Silver says, “She shoved me and then Brunette grabbed me.”
“Colonel Mustard and Sergeant Gray are keeping watch.” Mr. Clay says, “Even Professor Plum and Mr. Green grabbed shotguns. Inspector Brown is sure that Brunette is well on his way out of the country.”
“I’m so scared.” Nurse Silver says
“The first night will be the scariest,” Mr. Clay says, “But it will get easier.”
“But Vivienne…” Nurse Silver says sitting up, “What if she were to come in here and catch us like this. Surely she would think…”
“I’m here to help you.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m here to help you get your baby back.”
“I know, but she is going to think there is something between us.” Nurse Silver says
“That’s ridiculous.” Mr. Clay laughs, “That’ll only prove how far off the deep end she has gone.”
Nurse Silver’s heart sinks. She forces out a smile, “I can’t wait till we get out of here.”
“We’ll leave the day of Hugh’s memorial.” Mr. Clay says, “You’ll say you’ve some family business. I’ll just go with you and that will be that. We’ll make our way to the hotel where Fivel and Amelia are staying and wait until she moves the baby in.”
“Are you sure it’s going to be that easy?” asks Nurse Silver
“It’s going to be fine.” Mr. Clay says, “In the end, I have a feeling that Amelia will do what is right.”
END OF FLASHBACK
In the Hall of Blackwell Grange, Mr. Green opens the front door and lets in an elderly priest.
“Uncle Thallo!” Mr. Green takes the suitcase from Reverend Green, “It’s so good to see you! I wish it were on better terms.”
“As do I.” Reverend Green takes off his hat and sets it on the table in the center of the room.
“Let’s see this new Library.” Reverend Green says walking across the room
“How long has it been since you’ve been at Blackwell Grange?” Mr. Green hands the suitcase to Mr. Ash, who presently comes up from the Cellar.
“Oh I haven’t been here since Beatrice was still alive.” Reverend Green says, “Hugh Black was young and handsome. Michael Mustard was clean cut and the envy of every girl. Mike and I still write each other.”
“He’s here,” Mr. Green says, “Not in the best shape, however.”
“You two will be sharing a room, correct?” Mr. Ash asks
“Yeah,” Mr. Green laughs, “Just run it up there when you get the chance. I’m going to show him around.”
The two enter the Library to see the furniture rearranged with the furniture facing the center of the room, where a large globe sits.
“It used to center the fireplace.” Mr. Green motions, “She felt the fireplace shouldn’t be the attention of the room since Dr. Black met his end there.”
“In this very room?” Reverend Green walks over to the fireplace, “Oh dear,” Reverend Green notices a part of the wood around the hearth is bleached and the varnish eaten straight through.
“We couldn’t get all the blood up.” Mr. Green sighs, “Mrs. White tried her best.”
“Tell me,” Reverend Green says, “Now that we’ve rid ourselves of that butler, what is the real reason you requested I come and do Hugh Black’s memorial?”
“I need you to stay here at Blackwell Grange in my absence.” Mr. Green says
“Where are you going?” asks Reverend Green
“I need to find Brunette.” Mr. Green says
“I don’t even know who that is or what that means!” Reverend Green says
“Don’t worry about it.” Mr. Green says, “I need you to keep an eye on things here until after the memorial.”
“Then I’m free to return to my life?” Reverend Green chuckles, “You sound as though something is going to happen here.”
“After you are done here,” Mr. Green continues, “You will go to Seafront Terrace and find my son. Befriend his mother and keep a close eye on him.”
“How long do you expect me to stay at this fancy high-price hotel?” asks Reverend Green
“I have money for you.” Mr. Green reaches in his coat pocket and pulls out an envelope, “This should hold you over till I return.”
“Why are you making this so dramatic?” asks Reverend Green, trying to figure out what he is about to face.
“Dr. Black is dead.” Mr. Green says, “There are murderers on the loose. Everyone here is a murderer. Even you.”
To Be Continued…
“Your father would be so pleased to see you setting Sekhmet’s Tears out to sail.” Prince Azure’s royal advisor, Mr. Saffron inhales deeply as he walks to the doors leading inside the aft of the Ship. Prince Azure follows after a moment of reflection.
“How much further?” asks Prince Azure, stepping into his private Study. Mr. Saffron draws open the curtains to reveal the breath-taking sight of the ocean and the frothy trail that the ship leaves behind. Prince Azure sits down in a high back chair and picks up a novel from his cluttered desk.
“We’ve half a week before we reach Plymouth.” Mr. Saffron says, “From there it’s a train ride to Hampshire.”
“Do you understand your instructions?” asks Prince Azure
“Your highness, your instructions are unable to be carried out.” Mr. Saffron protests politely, “In order for me to be able to snatch the girl…”
“We will get to the memorial in time.” Prince Azure says with unwavering certainty
“You don’t even know if she is going to be there.” Mr. Saffron says beginning to get impatient, “You are grasping at air for answers now that Dr. Black is dead!”
“Mr. Saffron,” Prince Azure walks over to the windows and stares out, “Remind me, who was the last man I interrogated?”
“I believe it was a man by the name of Waddington, your highness.” Mr. Saffron says taking the book from Prince Azure’s hand and placing it back in its rightful slot on the bookshelf.
“Do you remember what happened to this man named Waddington?” asks Prince Azure
“Perhaps I should hear it from you,” Mr. Saffron bows his head, “Your wisdom might retell the tale so well,”
“Enough,” Prince Azure snaps, “I won’t have you mocking me.”
“Then what will you have me do?” asks Mr. Saffron dropping all formalities, “You are asking me to do something that we do not have all the information on. You are putting the cart before the horse.”
“To hell with the cart. To hell with the horse.” Prince Azure says, “To hell with the horseman too.”
“I take it in this scenario, I am the horseman?” asks Mr. Saffron
“I will act cordial to her face and greet her with respect and dignity.” Prince Azure offers a hand to Mr. Saffron in a demonstrative way.
“But deep down you want me to slice her throat to the bone.” Mr. Saffron says, “We’ve been over this a dozen times. I understand what you want me to do and why you want me to do it. I am just having trouble seeing the timeline playing out the way we want it to. As your royal advisor, I strongly suggest you rethink the way you are going to go about handling this.”
“Dr. Black was supposed to be the one to set up a mutual gathering.” Mr. Saffron says, “I suppose his death ended up being a mutual gathering. Let’s just assume our roles and avenge Lawrence’s death.”
Many miles north of Prince Azure’s ship, in the Gate House of Blackwell Grange, Mrs. White hurries down the wooden staircase into the main living area of the Servant’s Quarters. She sees Rusty at the large stone fireplace stacking freshly cut wood.
“Has Reggie started the day already?” asks Mrs. White
“Aye,” Rusty nods, resting his small Axe against his shoulder, “I caught him out by the Well House at nearly half-past five this morning. I don’t think he saw me.”
“What on earth were the two of you doing by the Well House?” asks Mrs. White
“I was collecting wood.” Rusty says, “I just finished cutting them half an hour ago.”
“Goodness,” Mrs. White takes her apron from a peg on the wall, “I over-slept.”
“You haven’t gotten much sleep since Hugh died.” Rusty says, “Perhaps you should slow down.”
“I can’t.” Mrs. White says, “With the lawyer coming by with the paper work and the house hold chores, I can’t afford to slow down.”
“Mrs. Peacock made Mr. Ash rearrange the entire Library yesterday.” Rusty says dropping the axe to the floor and resuming his wood stacking, “If you ask me, it seems as though the black widow has plans to stay here a lot longer than the will stipulates.”
“It takes a while to warm up to her, but in the end she is a great friend and loyal confidante,” Mrs. White says, “However she does have a strange mindset on her priorities. She loves that Library an awful lot, doesn’t she.”
“It’s where she and Hugh used to shag each other.” Rusty says
“Don’t be vulgar!” Mrs. White hits him on the arm, “I ought to wash your mouth out with soap. And another thing, I don’t want you talking bad about Mrs. Peacock. She’s the lady of the house until Mr. Boddy’s eighteenth birthday. We need to make sure our jobs are secured until then.”
“Everyone hates her.” Rusty says
“Not everyone.” Mrs. White defends
“Her stepdaughter cringes at the thought of her.” Rusty says
“Miss Vivienne is not in a good frame of mind right now,” Mrs. White warns, “After what happened between her, Mr. Clay, and Nurse Silver, it won’t take much for her to breakdown completely. We need to be sensitive.”
Rusty silently resumes to his task as Mrs. White finishes tying her apron.
“Make sure to open the gate for Mr. Meadow-Brook.” Mrs. White says as she exits the Gate House.
In the Hall of Blackwell Grange, Miss Peach skips down the staircase and straight down the Hall towards the front doors. Sir Benedict Black IV comes from the very smoky Billiard Room. Colonel Mustard can be seen tossing back a drink in the background.
“Good morning, grandfather.” Miss Peach does a twirl in her sundress.
“Melba, you look radiant.” Sir Benedict smiles at his young granddaughter, closing the Billiard Room door behind him.
“I’m meeting Stuart’s father today.” Miss Peach smiles with excitement
“Lord Gray is hard to please.” Sir Benedict chuckles, “Don’t be too off-put by him.”
“I think I’ll manage just fine.” Miss Peach smiles, “Back where I grew up nobody was intimidated by nobody. Southern belles and rodeo boys, we all knew how to sling a gun and hold up a fight.”
“That seems to be pure contrast to the way we see you when you are here at Blackwell Grange.” Sir Benedict walks towards the front doors, taking Miss Peach on his arm in the process.
“I like to dress fancy every now and then.” Miss Peach says, “But don’t act too startled if you see me riding around with no saddle. Was that Colonel Mustard I just saw in there?”
“Give him his space.” Sir Benedict says, “He is very drunk and very quick to shift blame.”
“Uh oh,” Miss Peach frowns, “Should I have Stuart keep an eye on him.”
“Maybe just for the sake of the people attending the memorial.” Sir Benedict says, “I don’t want any altercations. I’m still on edge over that Brunette fellow.”
“As am I.” Miss Peach says, “I feel like he’s after me still.”
“I don’t know if he was ever after you in the first place.” Sir Benedict shrugs, “He seems to strike at random when he took Nurse Silver.”
In the Study, Mrs. Peacock and Miss Scarlet sit behind the desk. They look eagerly at each other and then to a tall, bald man in a business suit. He wears a sea-foam colored tie with a matching pocket square. Embroidered on the pocket square, in a dark green thread, are the initials ‘M.M-B’. He is the lawyer to the late Dr. Hugh Black, Miles Meadow-Brook. He thumbs through Hugh Black’s will one last time and proceeds to slowly remove his glasses. He fumbles around with them for a bit, causing Miss Scarlet to clear her throat impatiently. Mrs. Peacock shoots her a look of disgust.
“Legally there is no mention at all of Madame Rose or Sir Benedict.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I cannot force you to make them stay here at Blackwell Grange, but I highly suggest that you do not kick them out.”
“Housing isn’t an issue,” Miss Scarlet holds up her hand, “They are welcome to stay. I’m more concerned with the sizable sum and what my budget should be.”
“You would need to talk to his accountant, Mr. Slate-Grey.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Wonderful,” Miss Scarlet says, “Leave his number, I’ll call him later.”
“More legal nonsense?” Mrs. Peacock stands up, “Hugh Black’s memorial is this afternoon. The man was barely cold and you were drawing lots over who was going to inherit.”
“We did not draw lots!” Miss Scarlet says crossing her arms
“Colonel Mustard lost £10 to Mr. Green.” Mrs. Peacock crosses the room and opens the door to the Hall, “I don’t need to deal with this right now.”
“I’m just looking out for us!” Miss Scarlet stands up, meeting her at the door to the Hall, “Stay and talk to Mr. Meadow-Brook. I can see I’m upsetting you. I’ll see if I can find John.”
She exits, slamming the door.
“She’s going through a rough time.” Mrs. Peacock says returning to the chair in front of the desk, “Her boyfriend left her after that incident with Nurse Silver.”
“I thought it was proven Miss Scarlet did not push her?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Mr. Clay seems to think differently.” Mrs. Peacock shrugs
“Or he was persuaded to think differently.” Mr. Meadow-Brook chuckles, “You know how deceptive jealous people can be.”
“So, just to be clear with what my stepdaughter asked,” Mrs. Peacock says tracing her fingers carefully along the fabric of the chair she sits in, “There is no budget regarding my recent access to Hugh’s funds?”
“Just be careful,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says staring sternly at her, “I don’t want to see a war between you and the relatives to Hugh. I’m sure there is already tension in the air.”
“Everything is fine.” Mrs. Peacock smiles brightly, “We are all on good terms.”
“No disrespects, but I find that very hard to believe.” Mr. Meadow-Brook stacks the paperwork and stands up from the desk, “If you’ll excuse me, I need to speak with some other household members.”
“Of course,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Thank you, Miles. I’ll be sure to have your wife over for tea soon.”
“Jane would love that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She seems to have grown distant from her friends. Being social might do her some good.”
In the Billiard Room of Blackwell Grange, Colonel Mustard stares silently out the windows. He holds an empty glass in his right hand. The sticky residue at the bottom suggests that of whiskey or brandy. It is evident he hasn’t slept in days. He turns his attention to the lamp above the billiard table. He grips the glass tightly upon noticing how crooked the lamp hangs, due to Yvette’s suicide.
“Have you been in here all night?” Mr. Green enters the Billiard Room from outside on the Terrace.
“Couldn’t sleep.” He grumbles, dragging himself over to the bar.
“Hey, buddy, don’t you think you’ve had enough.” Mr. Green puts his hand on Colonel Mustard’s shoulder.
“Lyman, we have been good friends for many years,” Colonel Mustard says, “Never get between me and alcohol if you want that friendship to continue.”
“Mike…” Mr. Green sighs, “Not today. Hugh wouldn’t want you to suffer this way.”
“You didn’t know Hugh like I knew Hugh.” Colonel Mustard barks, grabbing the open bottle of whiskey, “No one knew Hugh the way I did! Hugh knew me and he knew exactly what his death would do to me. Mr. Green, either help me pour or get out of my sight.”
In the Garage, Rusty opens the large double-doors dragging the Garden Shears on the ground behind him. Miss Peach stands in the Garden with a tall oriental woman in a light purple kimono. They both watch as Rusty approaches Mr. Ash inside. Mr. Ash removes a Hammer from the toolbox inside the front seat of the automobile parked inside the Garage.
“Are the guests awake?” asks Rusty, setting the Garden Shears on the tool bench.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook was here bright and early.” Mr. Ash says, “I have to run this to Mrs. Peacock’s bedroom. She has some family photo’s she would like to hang up.”
“She seems to be getting comfortable here.” Rusty says opening the window next to the tool bench, “Did I see you out in the woods this morning?”
“No,” Mr. Ash says, “Why would I be out in the woods. The precipice past the Well House is dangerous. I haven’t ventured into the woods since we lost our last horse.”
Rusty eyes him for a moment, “Well if it wasn’t you then it was someone with a similar build.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook and I have been told we have similar body types.” Mr. Ash says, “Perhaps he was poking around the woods.”
“It couldn’t be Brunette could it?” asks Rusty
“It’s been eleven days since Nurse Silver encountered him.” Mr. Ash says, “Brunette is a long way away from here.”
In a dark room with a rough, wood interior, Monsieur Alphonse Brunette lays on a bed staring at the ceiling of the candle-lit room. His shoulder is bandaged and his facial hair has become unkempt.
“This is bullshit,” he sits up and walks over to his door. The door opens and a burly man with breath smelling of rum pushes his way in.
“You know damn well I don’t want to talk to you!” Monsieur Brunette says, “Move out of my way, I need to talk to someone.”
“We are long over-due for a talk.” The man says closing the door behind him.
“Why did we change course?” asks Monsieur Brunette, “Why aren’t we heading back to Africa?”
“We aren’t going to Africa.” The man says, “Prince Azure is making his way to Blackwell Grange.”
“When you picked me up you said we were going back!” Monsieur Brunette waves his arms fiercely about, “Godammit! Why must you always interfere with my life. I just wanted a quiet passage back to Africa. Azure would understand.”
“His royal highness commanded this ship be brought to Plymouth this very evening.” The man says, “An impossible task if you ask me.”
There is silence between the two.
“Have you heard from your brother?” the man stumbles around for his words, “I… I haven’t heard from him since your mother died.”
“Not now,” Monsieur Brunette turns away and opens his side table drawers.
“I loved your mother.” The man says, holding back an outpour of emotions.
“You left us to sail the seas.” Monsieur Brunette says, “If you are expecting me to throw my arms around you and call you father…” Monsieur Brunette pulls a knife out of the drawer of the cabinet and points it at him, “Stay out of my way. I need to get the hell off of this ship before it reaches England.”
“We are in the middle of nowhere.” The man says, “I should know, I’ve been sailing us the entire time.”
“Drunk and wobbly?” Monsieur Brunette conceals the knife up his sleeve.
“I’ve only had a drop of rum!” The man, his father, Captain Brown hiccups slightly.
“Don’t worry,” Monsieur Brunette takes the short, round man by the shoulders, “I will not harm his royal highness. Philippe and I are old friends. He saved my ass back when Hugh Black tried to have it thrown in jail for his mutilations. I’m sure he understands that I cannot go back to the place that I narrowly escaped. You mentioned my brother? Yes, Winfield is doing wonderfully. He works for Scotland Yard and he has been chasing me ever since Hugh Black was killed by their household maid. He probably has Interpol after me by now. I would also like you to take notice in one very crucial fact – I have never harmed anyone. I have threatened and conned my way through everything. I didn’t even learn how to unload a pistol until recently. I am not ready for you to put on one of your fatherly displays! Turn this ship back where it needs to go.”
“Prince Azure would never let me live that down.” Captain Brown says, “You need to face your brother. Explain to him what you explained to me. Winfield is a perfectionist. He doesn’t go on gut or instinct; he goes off of evidence and facts. You claim to have just been in the wrong place at the wrong time…” Captain Brown sits down on the edge of the bed with a prolonged grunt, “… maybe you can convince the world that you were just in the wrong place at the wrong time.”
“It just seems so unlikely for any jury to believe that bad luck just chases me around.” Monsieur Brunette says, “I think back on every single one of my mistakes and realize how blinded by my own self-gratification I was. I could have avoided every single crime I’m being hunted for.”
“It’s not too late to become the person you want to be.” Captain Brown says
“Turn the ship around.” Monsieur Brunette says, “Please? For once do something for your family.”
Captain Brown stands up from the bed and exits the room, turning around to face him from the hallway, “Stay away from Prince Azure. I don’t want to see you treated like the last man to stay in that room.”
Monsieur Brunette looks around the room with shocked curiosity.
“I suppose it’s time to search more thoroughly.” Monsieur Brunette looks out into the hallway to see Captain Brown has already disappeared.
In his bedroom at Blackwell Grange, Mr. John Boddy sits in his armchair reading a book.
“Knock, knock,” Miss Scarlet enters his room, whilst knocking. She is wearing a short red skirt and a white button down shirt. She is carrying a Tennis Racquet.
“You sure love to barge right on in,” Mr. Boddy closes his book and stands up, “Won’t you be cold dressed like that?”
“Why ever would I be cold?” asks Miss Scarlet, “It’s hot outside. Open up a window.” She rushes across his room, tossing the Tennis Racquet on his perfectly smooth blanket. She unlocks and rolls up the window, allowing a sweet autumn breeze to flow into the room.
“I’d rather you didn’t.” Mr. Boddy snatches the Tennis Racquet and carefully smoothes the wrinkles out of his blanket, “The smell of the lawn trimmings is bloody awful!”
“It’s wonderful!” Miss Scarlet takes his hand and rushes him over to the door
“What are you doing with me.” Mr. Boddy pulls away, “Why are you so damn hyper?”
“Let’s play tennis.” Miss Scarlet says, “It’s a beautiful day.”
“It’s Uncle Hugh’s memorial for Christ’s sake!” Mr. Boddy brushes himself off, “I’m standing here dressed in black… you look like an alleyway whore!”
Miss Scarlet snatches the Tennis Racquet from him and angrily exits the room. The door slams loudly knocking a picture off the wall and onto the floor. The glass breaks. Mr. Boddy walks over to the picture to see a family photograph taken the Christmas before his parents disappeared. He bends over and touches the cracked and broken glass with his fingers. He runs his other hand along the smooth, papery faces of his parents. He closes his eyes and tears begin to drip down his face. He opens his eyes and sees Hugh Black standing behind his mother in the picture. He grabs the picture and throws it across the room. The frame and remaining glass shatter and give out as it makes contact with the wall. Miss Scarlet reenters the room.
“Leave me alone!” Mr. Boddy rushes across his room and opens the door near the back of his room. He enters the small dressing room and splashes water on his face from the basin. He then grabs a towel and looks at himself in the long mirror.
Miss Scarlet enters and slowly sits down on the gold-legged ottoman in the center of the dressing room.
“I just wanted to try and cheer you up.” Miss Scarlet looks down at her feet as she swings the tennis racquet back and forth.
Mr. Boddy turns around with fire in his eyes, “Take it off.”
Miss Scarlet stands up in startled shock, holding the Tennis Racquet in front of her, as it for protection.
“I know what you are here for.” Mr. Boddy says backing her into the corner. Miss Scarlet whimpers, “You and your bitch of a stepmother want to keep Blackwell Grange forever. You think if you fuck me enough I’ll write you into the will and then your stepmother and you can dispose of me just like The Black Widow does.”
“Please,” Miss Scarlet stammers
“Please, what?” Mr. Boddy shouts
Miss Scarlet tries to break free but knocks over his water basin, sending glass and water across the bathroom floor. Mr. Boddy pounces on her. She strikes him with the Tennis Racquet and rushes out of his Dressing Room, bumping into Mr. Meadow-Brook as she exits Mr. Boddy’s bedroom and into the upstairs hall. Mr. Meadow-Brook watches Miss Scarlet run away, dripping wet, bleeding and carrying the Tennis Racquet. Mr. Meadow-Brook enters the dressing room to see Mr. Boddy helping himself off the floor and onto the ottoman. The side of his head is bleeding, though the bleeding looks much worse due to the watery mixture from the basin’s spillage. He has cuts on his hands and fingers from the broken glass on the floor. His right pants leg is torn at the knee.
“Getting yourself into mischief?” Mr. Meadow-Brook grabs a towel and tosses it to Mr. Boddy
“Platinum blonde slut!” Mr. Boddy growls in anger
“Was she trying to make herself an heiress?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks
“She was trying to seduce me, just like her stepmother did last night.” Mr. Boddy says
“Sex is their strongest weapon.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “They know you are a red-blooded teen on the cusp of becoming a red-blooded man.”
“I couldn’t be more disgusted by their insatiable lusts!” Mr. Boddy growls standing up and reentering his bedroom. Mr. Meadow-Brook follows.
“Just be careful.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Mrs. Peacock says everyone was happily living together and I knew from the moment she said it, that she was planning something. Miss Scarlet is vulnerable and weak. She has most likely been medicating herself to stay upbeat and happy.”
“Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay appear to have become a hot item.” Mr. Boddy smirks
“You enjoy that?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“It was fun to watch Miss Scarlet get walked out on.” Mr. Boddy chuckles
“Just try to stay on good terms with them.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “At least until your birthday?”
“I’ll do my best.” Mr. Boddy rolls his eyes, “But I’m locking my doors at night.”
“I would think it unwise to leave them unlocked.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
At the Gazebo, Professor Plum stands looking over the railing and at the lake. Nurse Silver and Mr. Clay sit dressed in black. Professor Plum takes off his glasses and places them in his top pocket.
“I see some people don’t understand the etiquette of a memorial.” Nurse Silver motions to Lady Lavender and Miss Peach who stand in the Garden dressed as if they were attending a garden party.
“Miss Scarlet was dressed in tennis clothing.” Professor Plum says, “I’m not sure if she has changed yet. I saw her going into the house.”
“Oh, I forgot to mention, I’m not going to be staying for long.” Nurse Silver says, “Sadly, I have some important business to attend to.”
“Medical emergency?” asks Professor Plum
“It’s actually family related.” Nurse Silver says
FLASHBACK – 11 DAYS AGO –
Nurse Silver lays in Mr. Clay’s arms.
“She’s dead to me!” Mr. Clay says, “I can’t believe her own insecurities would cause her to go to such lengths.”
“Everyone thinks it was an accident.” Nurse Silver says, “She shoved me and then Brunette grabbed me.”
“Colonel Mustard and Sergeant Gray are keeping watch.” Mr. Clay says, “Even Professor Plum and Mr. Green grabbed shotguns. Inspector Brown is sure that Brunette is well on his way out of the country.”
“I’m so scared.” Nurse Silver says
“The first night will be the scariest,” Mr. Clay says, “But it will get easier.”
“But Vivienne…” Nurse Silver says sitting up, “What if she were to come in here and catch us like this. Surely she would think…”
“I’m here to help you.” Mr. Clay says, “I’m here to help you get your baby back.”
“I know, but she is going to think there is something between us.” Nurse Silver says
“That’s ridiculous.” Mr. Clay laughs, “That’ll only prove how far off the deep end she has gone.”
Nurse Silver’s heart sinks. She forces out a smile, “I can’t wait till we get out of here.”
“We’ll leave the day of Hugh’s memorial.” Mr. Clay says, “You’ll say you’ve some family business. I’ll just go with you and that will be that. We’ll make our way to the hotel where Fivel and Amelia are staying and wait until she moves the baby in.”
“Are you sure it’s going to be that easy?” asks Nurse Silver
“It’s going to be fine.” Mr. Clay says, “In the end, I have a feeling that Amelia will do what is right.”
END OF FLASHBACK
In the Hall of Blackwell Grange, Mr. Green opens the front door and lets in an elderly priest.
“Uncle Thallo!” Mr. Green takes the suitcase from Reverend Green, “It’s so good to see you! I wish it were on better terms.”
“As do I.” Reverend Green takes off his hat and sets it on the table in the center of the room.
“Let’s see this new Library.” Reverend Green says walking across the room
“How long has it been since you’ve been at Blackwell Grange?” Mr. Green hands the suitcase to Mr. Ash, who presently comes up from the Cellar.
“Oh I haven’t been here since Beatrice was still alive.” Reverend Green says, “Hugh Black was young and handsome. Michael Mustard was clean cut and the envy of every girl. Mike and I still write each other.”
“He’s here,” Mr. Green says, “Not in the best shape, however.”
“You two will be sharing a room, correct?” Mr. Ash asks
“Yeah,” Mr. Green laughs, “Just run it up there when you get the chance. I’m going to show him around.”
The two enter the Library to see the furniture rearranged with the furniture facing the center of the room, where a large globe sits.
“It used to center the fireplace.” Mr. Green motions, “She felt the fireplace shouldn’t be the attention of the room since Dr. Black met his end there.”
“In this very room?” Reverend Green walks over to the fireplace, “Oh dear,” Reverend Green notices a part of the wood around the hearth is bleached and the varnish eaten straight through.
“We couldn’t get all the blood up.” Mr. Green sighs, “Mrs. White tried her best.”
“Tell me,” Reverend Green says, “Now that we’ve rid ourselves of that butler, what is the real reason you requested I come and do Hugh Black’s memorial?”
“I need you to stay here at Blackwell Grange in my absence.” Mr. Green says
“Where are you going?” asks Reverend Green
“I need to find Brunette.” Mr. Green says
“I don’t even know who that is or what that means!” Reverend Green says
“Don’t worry about it.” Mr. Green says, “I need you to keep an eye on things here until after the memorial.”
“Then I’m free to return to my life?” Reverend Green chuckles, “You sound as though something is going to happen here.”
“After you are done here,” Mr. Green continues, “You will go to Seafront Terrace and find my son. Befriend his mother and keep a close eye on him.”
“How long do you expect me to stay at this fancy high-price hotel?” asks Reverend Green
“I have money for you.” Mr. Green reaches in his coat pocket and pulls out an envelope, “This should hold you over till I return.”
“Why are you making this so dramatic?” asks Reverend Green, trying to figure out what he is about to face.
“Dr. Black is dead.” Mr. Green says, “There are murderers on the loose. Everyone here is a murderer. Even you.”
To Be Continued…