Episode 17 – “Arrivals and Departures” Part I
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Madame Rose is certain that Jessica was meant to be murdered and that the twins are responsible for the murders. Miss Peach finds her father, Colonel Mustard, casually writing his memoirs at home. When she presses him as to why he left, he explains that he was alone with his thoughts and needed to get out of there. He then informs her that he murdered someone. After hearing that Miss Peach says that murder is something they have in common. Mrs. Peacock picks up her dear friend, Francesca Thorn from the train depot. Miss Scarlet, who rides along, is snobby and rude to her. It is revealed that Miss Scarlet hired Dante Egret to attack Chandler and choose between her, Emily, and Mrs. Peacock. Mr. Green survives Jet’s attack and tells Jet everything about Bryce. Jet is in disbelief. The doorbell rings and Mr. Green orders Jet to leave. Jet agrees but instead remains in the Dining Room. He is horrified to find his mother is let in. They begin to argue. Mrs. Black is in disbelief that Mr. Green would sell to her son. Jet is in disbelief that his mother is dealing drugs. The doorbell rings again and Mr. Green excuses himself. Jet and Sylvia argue as to why she is here. Sylvia tells her son she doesn’t do drugs, she doesn’t sell drugs, and she came here to tell Mr. Green that he is Jet’s father…
-Saturday, April 16, 1949-
-Late Morning-
At the Green Home, in the Dining Room, Mr. Thallo Green stands still in the doorway. Mr. Dante Egret shifts uncomfortably where he is standing. Jet Black’s eyes fill with tears as he allows the words his mother just said to process into his mind. Mrs. Sylvia Black stands not daring to breathe. Her face is bright red from the embarrassment and regret of what she just let slip out. The grandfather clock in the hall chimes ten. Mr. Egret carefully picks a spot on the wall to stare at to avoid awkward eye contact during this awkward silence.
“Someone please say something.” Mrs. Black says
“Unbelievable.” Jet says, “Is Scott the only child you actually had with dad… or should I say Hugh?”
“Don’t you think it hurts me as much as it hurts you?” Mrs. Black asks pulling out a chair and sitting down.
“I have a son?” Mr. Green says distantly as he stares at the bags and bags of illegal substances that cover the dining room table.
“Yes,” Mrs. Black puts her head into her hands, “I didn’t want you to find out like this. I came here to tell you, but…”
“Are you sure he’s mine?” Mr. Green asks with confusion
“I’m almost 100% positive.” Mrs. Black says
“I was married before.” Mr. Green says, “We tried to get pregnant for five years. The doctors said nothing was wrong with her, it was me.”
“But,” Mrs. Black tries to protest, “If it’s not you…”
“It can’t be me.” Mr. Green says, “I’m unable to have kids.”
“I got pregnant with Jet while Hugh was away for three months in America.” Mrs. Black says
“Maybe you just didn’t know till the third month.” Mr. Egret suggests, “Then again, my mother was pregnant with me for ten months before I was born.”
“Can you please leave?” Mrs. Black looks at Mr. Egret, “This is a family matter.”
“Seeing how I’m not Jet’s father, I’m not his family.” Mr. Green says
“So nothing has changed?” asks Jet
“I…” Mrs. Black thinks, “I guess not.”
“Let’s just go.” Jet says brushing past Mr. Green and Mr. Egret.
“I’m so sorry,” Mrs. Black says following Jet out.
The front door closes. Mr. Green checks to make sure they are gone.
“Well that was something,” Mr. Green says
“What was that whole story about not being able to have kids?” Mr. Egret asks, “I know for a fact that you and Deidre have a daughter.”
“The Black’s have enough in their life right now.” Mr. Green says, “Just wait until Hugh Black’s father arrives.”
At Tudor Close, Mr. Ash quickly rushes to the front door and opens in. Two tall, menacing men enter the mansion. The first is an elderly man in his late seventies. He walks with a cane and has a look of anger and resentment over his face. His long, wiry, grey hair his slicked back and tied with a metal clasp. He is wearing a perfectly trimmed black suit coat over a rich burgundy shirt. He is Sir Bradford Black, the father of the late Hugh Black. His companion his much younger, but retains similar features: the look of anger and resentment, the long hair tied back with a metal clasp. However this young man is in his late twenties. He has dark brown hair and piercing green eyes. He is Mr. John Boddy, Hugh Black’s nephew.
“Sir Bradford, Master Boddy,” Mr. Ash bows, “May I take your coats.”
“It was done in here?” Sir Bradford Black asks angrily
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Ash asks
“The murder.” Mr. Boddy snaps, “The murder was committed in the Hall, right?”
“Oh, yes,” Mr. Ash says, “From what the police have been able to tell.”
“Give me the details.” Sir Bradford Black takes off his leather gloves and tosses them at the butler.
“Well the police found watered down traces of blood near the Study door.” Mr. Ash says quickly, “Apparently the killer tried to clean it up. They did a fairly good job of it, but missed some blood behind a planter.”
“Get rid of it.” Sir Bradford Black says handing his cane and coat to the butler.
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Ash asks
“The planter.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I don’t want that in my mansion.”
“Excuse me?” Mrs. Sylvia Black enters through the front door with Jet lagging behind her.
“Sylvia,” John Boddy nods to her
“You look the same.” Sir Bradford Black says uninterested in her
“This is my mansion.” Mrs. Black says, “My husband left it to me.”
“Oh, you see, that is where you are wrong.” Sir Bradford Black says, “My son contacted me about a week ago and made me the sole beneficiary of his estate.”
“Son of a bitch.” Mrs. Black shouts
“That language is not appropriate in my house.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Especially from a lady.”
“Mr. Ash,” Mrs. Black says to the butler who is buried under coats and top hats from the new arrivals, “Call Mr. Meadow-Brook.”
“Right away ma’am.” Mr. Ash says taking the coats to the Cloak Room.
At the Peacock Residence, Mrs. Penelope Peacock sits in the Drawing Room showing Miss Francesca Thorn photos from a photo album.
“Oh isn’t she a doll.” Miss Thorn points to a picture of six-year-old Cynthia Scarlet
“She did grow up a bit too quickly.” Mrs. Peacock says putting the album on the coffee table. Mrs. Myrtle comes in with the tea tray.
“Thank you, dear.” Mrs. Peacock smiles as she sets it down on the coffee table.
“How many guests will be attending your dinner party tonight?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “I’d like to go shopping and get an idea of how many people I’m shopping for.”
“Sylvia Black and her boys, I’m not sure about the Meadow-Brook’s but keep them in mind just in case, Colonel Mustard and Miss Peach, and Chandler Weiss.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well I ought to get to the market.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “Do you need anything before I go.”
“No thank you, dear.” Mrs. Peacock says with a smile, “I’ll find my way to the kitchen if need be.”
Mrs. Myrtle nods and exits the Drawing Room.
“She seems nice.” Miss Thorn says
“Oh she is,” Mrs. Peacock says, “She’s like family.”
“Well since Cynthia is out,” Miss Thorn pauses, “I thought we could talk a bit more seriously.”
Just then the telephone rings.
“Something always interferes.” Mrs. Peacock rolls her eyes. She crosses the Drawing Room and picks up the phone, “Peacock Residence,”
“Penny,” a male’s voice says with worry, “I received a phone call this morning from Blanche White telling me that Hugh Black was killed last night.”
“Um, hello to you to,” Mrs. Peacock says
“What the hell happened?” asks the man
“Gregory,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch lately, but you never answer my calls.”
“I have my reasons.” Her brother, Professor Gregory Plum responds on the other end of the line, “Last time I saw you there was a murder at Tudor Close. According to the story I heard from the housekeeper who contacted me, there’s been another one.”
“Is that our tradition now?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “Contact each other every time something happens at Tudor Close?”
“What happened?” asks Professor Plum
“Some police officer maniac killed Celeste Curry and Hugh Black as well as a handful of others around town.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well, I also called because I have some bad news.” Professor Plum pauses for a moment, “Or potentially good news since you hated her.”
“Is it mother?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She passed away in her sleep last night.” Professor Plum says, “She went peacefully. By this afternoon you should pop by your lawyer’s office and sign the papers that are sure to follow.”
“You make me sound like I only want the money.” Mrs. Peacock says
“If you don’t want it, I’ll take it.” Professor Plum says
“There’s a reason it was left to me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Because dad liked you more.” Professor Plum says
“Do we have to do this every time we talk?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “We are almost fifty.”
“It doesn’t change the fact that I had an awful childhood.” Professor Plum says
“So what about mother’s funeral arrangements?” Mrs. Peacock tries to change the subject
“Her ashes will be shipped out here.” Professor Plum says, “I figured we could scatter them together.”
“You couldn’t wait until her cremation before hopping on an airplane for England?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“In all honesty, I liked Hugh better.” Professor Plum says
“Didn’t we all,” Mrs. Peacock mutters under her breath
“So I was wondering if you had a guest room available.” Professor Plum ignores her comment
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “When will you be here?”
“Tomorrow morning.” Professor Plum says, “I was going to take a nice boat ride, but figured I’d miss Hugh’s funeral.”
“Smart move.” Mrs. Peacock says snidely, “I assume you are taking a train to Hampshire?”
“Absolutely.” Professor Plum says, “I read some of the best books on a train.”
“Lovely.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’ll see you then.” She hangs up
“Apparently my long-lost estranged brother is coming to visit.” Mrs. Peacock sits back down on the sofa
“Oh that seems fun.” Miss Thorn says
“But I have better news.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come with me to my lawyer’s office. You won’t be disappointed.”
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook sits behind his desk smoking a cigar and going over some paper work. The telephone rings.
“Meadow-Brook,” he answers solemnly
“Sir, this is Reginald Ash.” Mr. Ash responds
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “How are things going over there?”
“Not too well I’m afraid.” Mr. Ash says, “Mrs. Black was wondering if you have the current edition of Dr. Black’s will on hand?”
“I keep all my important clients in my filing cabinet at home,” Mr. Meadow-Brook nods, “Don’t you think it’s a bit early to be digging through Hugh’s things? He hasn’t even been dead for 24 hours.”
“I agree with you whole-heartedly, sir.” Mr. Ash says, “Dr. Black’s father is here and claims the mansion is his we were hoping you could straighten this out.”
“Do you want me to come by Tudor Close?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“No, perhaps you could pull Mrs. Black aside during the dinner party at the Peacock’s tonight.” Mr. Ash says
“I don’t think we are going to the party.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “With Jessica’s death, we are not ready to socialize.”
“Well can you at least stop by the Peacock’s tonight to tell Sylvia.” Mr. Ash says, “She is really worked up.”
“I’ll see what I can do.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says hanging up. The front door opens and Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook enters.
“It’s all over.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says wiping the tears from her eyes, “Our marriage, our family, everything.”
“Our marriage doesn’t have to end.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says standing up and walking over to her, “If anything, Jessica’s death has brought us closer together.
Mrs. Meadow-Brook forcefully slaps her husband, “Don’t talk about her like that.”
“Jane,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs
“I’m through.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “You got your bank number. Since Hugh is dead and has no written evidence that half the money in that account was his, you have all the money you can get your greedy little hands on.”
“Jane, I don’t care about the money.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Since when?” asks Mrs. Meadow-Brook
“Since I realized how much my family means to me.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I know we have had a rough few weeks, but I still think we should go to Monte Carlo with Sylvia like we planned. It could help get our mind off things.”
“You can’t be serious?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shrieks
“I think it can definitely help us take our minds off of our problems.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Plus we could use some time away from Hampshire.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook nods slowly as she heads up the stairs.
“So it’s settled?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“We’ll talk about this later.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says disappearing up the stairs.
At Tudor Close, in the Study, Sir Bradford Black stands looking out the windows. Mrs. Sylvia Black sits in annoyance on the sofa near the back of the room. Mr. John Boddy stands in front of the desk admiring the wall moldings. Mrs. Blanche White enters the room with a notepad.
“I’ve called all the people for the funeral.” She tells Mrs. Black
“Wonderful.” Mrs. Black mumbles
“I’m glad you are here.” Sir Bradford Black says, “If you want to keep your job, you are going to need to be prompt and precise.”
“She works for me.” Mrs. Black points out
“She comes with the mansion.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Believe me, I’ll pay her twice as much as she gets here.”
“This isn’t up for discussion.” Mrs. Black says
“Don’t fret,’ Sir Bradford Black says, “You can visit the mansion anytime you wish.”
Mrs. Black seethes as she exits the Study
“Blanche,” Sir Bradford Black motions to her, “Take notes. I want this room entirely redecorated. New bookcases, a bigger desk, and for god’s sake, get rid of these garish curtains.”
“Sir?” Mrs. White raises an eyebrow with confusion
“He is preparing for the changes made to the mansion once everything is finalized.” Mr. Boddy explains
“I also would like a nice telescope here.” He motions to the window alcove, “I would be nice to see the stars at night. I want the secret passage sealed off.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I don’t want any trick doors in this house.”
Mrs. White quickly writes as quickly as possible. John Boddy begins to examine the open passageway.
“Where does this lead to?” asks Mr. Boddy
“The Kitchen,” Mrs. White answers
“Seal off the Kitchen side too,” Sir Bradford Black says, “In fact, I want it filled with concrete as to prevent any reopening.”
“Mrs. Black is checking with Hugh’s lawyer.” Mrs. White says, “What if Hugh didn’t make a new version of his will.”
“Oh he did.” Sir Bradford Black bites his lip, “I made certain of that.”
Mrs. White gets the uncomfortable feeling from the two foreboding men.
“Knock out the Conservatory,” Sir Bradford Black says
“I beg your pardon?” Mrs. White asks
“I want the Conservatory torn down.” Sir Bradford Black says, “We’ll turn it into a beautiful steam room; a stylish Turkish bath, perhaps.”
“A spa, sir?” Mrs. White raises her eyebrows
“I think it’s about time that we modernized Hampshire.” Sir Bradford Black says
“How much renovating did you have in mind?” asks Mrs. White
“The Ballroom doesn’t have a room above it.” Sir Bradford Black says, “It would make a nice large party patio.”
“We have a patio off the Library.” Mrs. White says
“Not big enough.” Sir Bradford Black says
“How many changes did you plan on making?” Mrs. White asks
“The Billiard Room seems a bit underused,” Sir Bradford Black says, “At least by me. I think a home theatre or cinema would fit the room much better.”
“But all that noise would cause disturbance in the Library.” Mrs. White says
“The Library won’t be the same either.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Auction off all the first editions and turn the Library into a cozy Living Room.”
“What about the Lounge?” Mrs. White says, “It is our living room currently.”
“I plan to turn it into my bedroom.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I’m far too old to use the stairs. The Dining Room and Kitchen can stay the same.”
“Sir,” Mrs. White can’t shake off her flustered feelings, “Tudor Close is a historical landmark in Hampshire. It is the perfect epitome of a proper English Mansion. Modernizing it may bring down it’s publicity.”
“I think these past few weeks have brought enough publicity to Hampshire.” Sir Bradford Black says, “It’s time to move on with the times.”
“It will still be called Tudor Close?” Mr. Boddy asks
“Tudor Close: The Reinvention.” Sir Bradford Black says continuing to stare of the window
“Oh god,” Mrs. White rolls her eyes
-Saturday, April 16, 1949-
-Late Morning-
At the Green Home, in the Dining Room, Mr. Thallo Green stands still in the doorway. Mr. Dante Egret shifts uncomfortably where he is standing. Jet Black’s eyes fill with tears as he allows the words his mother just said to process into his mind. Mrs. Sylvia Black stands not daring to breathe. Her face is bright red from the embarrassment and regret of what she just let slip out. The grandfather clock in the hall chimes ten. Mr. Egret carefully picks a spot on the wall to stare at to avoid awkward eye contact during this awkward silence.
“Someone please say something.” Mrs. Black says
“Unbelievable.” Jet says, “Is Scott the only child you actually had with dad… or should I say Hugh?”
“Don’t you think it hurts me as much as it hurts you?” Mrs. Black asks pulling out a chair and sitting down.
“I have a son?” Mr. Green says distantly as he stares at the bags and bags of illegal substances that cover the dining room table.
“Yes,” Mrs. Black puts her head into her hands, “I didn’t want you to find out like this. I came here to tell you, but…”
“Are you sure he’s mine?” Mr. Green asks with confusion
“I’m almost 100% positive.” Mrs. Black says
“I was married before.” Mr. Green says, “We tried to get pregnant for five years. The doctors said nothing was wrong with her, it was me.”
“But,” Mrs. Black tries to protest, “If it’s not you…”
“It can’t be me.” Mr. Green says, “I’m unable to have kids.”
“I got pregnant with Jet while Hugh was away for three months in America.” Mrs. Black says
“Maybe you just didn’t know till the third month.” Mr. Egret suggests, “Then again, my mother was pregnant with me for ten months before I was born.”
“Can you please leave?” Mrs. Black looks at Mr. Egret, “This is a family matter.”
“Seeing how I’m not Jet’s father, I’m not his family.” Mr. Green says
“So nothing has changed?” asks Jet
“I…” Mrs. Black thinks, “I guess not.”
“Let’s just go.” Jet says brushing past Mr. Green and Mr. Egret.
“I’m so sorry,” Mrs. Black says following Jet out.
The front door closes. Mr. Green checks to make sure they are gone.
“Well that was something,” Mr. Green says
“What was that whole story about not being able to have kids?” Mr. Egret asks, “I know for a fact that you and Deidre have a daughter.”
“The Black’s have enough in their life right now.” Mr. Green says, “Just wait until Hugh Black’s father arrives.”
At Tudor Close, Mr. Ash quickly rushes to the front door and opens in. Two tall, menacing men enter the mansion. The first is an elderly man in his late seventies. He walks with a cane and has a look of anger and resentment over his face. His long, wiry, grey hair his slicked back and tied with a metal clasp. He is wearing a perfectly trimmed black suit coat over a rich burgundy shirt. He is Sir Bradford Black, the father of the late Hugh Black. His companion his much younger, but retains similar features: the look of anger and resentment, the long hair tied back with a metal clasp. However this young man is in his late twenties. He has dark brown hair and piercing green eyes. He is Mr. John Boddy, Hugh Black’s nephew.
“Sir Bradford, Master Boddy,” Mr. Ash bows, “May I take your coats.”
“It was done in here?” Sir Bradford Black asks angrily
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Ash asks
“The murder.” Mr. Boddy snaps, “The murder was committed in the Hall, right?”
“Oh, yes,” Mr. Ash says, “From what the police have been able to tell.”
“Give me the details.” Sir Bradford Black takes off his leather gloves and tosses them at the butler.
“Well the police found watered down traces of blood near the Study door.” Mr. Ash says quickly, “Apparently the killer tried to clean it up. They did a fairly good job of it, but missed some blood behind a planter.”
“Get rid of it.” Sir Bradford Black says handing his cane and coat to the butler.
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Ash asks
“The planter.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I don’t want that in my mansion.”
“Excuse me?” Mrs. Sylvia Black enters through the front door with Jet lagging behind her.
“Sylvia,” John Boddy nods to her
“You look the same.” Sir Bradford Black says uninterested in her
“This is my mansion.” Mrs. Black says, “My husband left it to me.”
“Oh, you see, that is where you are wrong.” Sir Bradford Black says, “My son contacted me about a week ago and made me the sole beneficiary of his estate.”
“Son of a bitch.” Mrs. Black shouts
“That language is not appropriate in my house.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Especially from a lady.”
“Mr. Ash,” Mrs. Black says to the butler who is buried under coats and top hats from the new arrivals, “Call Mr. Meadow-Brook.”
“Right away ma’am.” Mr. Ash says taking the coats to the Cloak Room.
At the Peacock Residence, Mrs. Penelope Peacock sits in the Drawing Room showing Miss Francesca Thorn photos from a photo album.
“Oh isn’t she a doll.” Miss Thorn points to a picture of six-year-old Cynthia Scarlet
“She did grow up a bit too quickly.” Mrs. Peacock says putting the album on the coffee table. Mrs. Myrtle comes in with the tea tray.
“Thank you, dear.” Mrs. Peacock smiles as she sets it down on the coffee table.
“How many guests will be attending your dinner party tonight?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “I’d like to go shopping and get an idea of how many people I’m shopping for.”
“Sylvia Black and her boys, I’m not sure about the Meadow-Brook’s but keep them in mind just in case, Colonel Mustard and Miss Peach, and Chandler Weiss.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well I ought to get to the market.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “Do you need anything before I go.”
“No thank you, dear.” Mrs. Peacock says with a smile, “I’ll find my way to the kitchen if need be.”
Mrs. Myrtle nods and exits the Drawing Room.
“She seems nice.” Miss Thorn says
“Oh she is,” Mrs. Peacock says, “She’s like family.”
“Well since Cynthia is out,” Miss Thorn pauses, “I thought we could talk a bit more seriously.”
Just then the telephone rings.
“Something always interferes.” Mrs. Peacock rolls her eyes. She crosses the Drawing Room and picks up the phone, “Peacock Residence,”
“Penny,” a male’s voice says with worry, “I received a phone call this morning from Blanche White telling me that Hugh Black was killed last night.”
“Um, hello to you to,” Mrs. Peacock says
“What the hell happened?” asks the man
“Gregory,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’m sorry I haven’t been in touch lately, but you never answer my calls.”
“I have my reasons.” Her brother, Professor Gregory Plum responds on the other end of the line, “Last time I saw you there was a murder at Tudor Close. According to the story I heard from the housekeeper who contacted me, there’s been another one.”
“Is that our tradition now?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “Contact each other every time something happens at Tudor Close?”
“What happened?” asks Professor Plum
“Some police officer maniac killed Celeste Curry and Hugh Black as well as a handful of others around town.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well, I also called because I have some bad news.” Professor Plum pauses for a moment, “Or potentially good news since you hated her.”
“Is it mother?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She passed away in her sleep last night.” Professor Plum says, “She went peacefully. By this afternoon you should pop by your lawyer’s office and sign the papers that are sure to follow.”
“You make me sound like I only want the money.” Mrs. Peacock says
“If you don’t want it, I’ll take it.” Professor Plum says
“There’s a reason it was left to me.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Because dad liked you more.” Professor Plum says
“Do we have to do this every time we talk?” Mrs. Peacock asks, “We are almost fifty.”
“It doesn’t change the fact that I had an awful childhood.” Professor Plum says
“So what about mother’s funeral arrangements?” Mrs. Peacock tries to change the subject
“Her ashes will be shipped out here.” Professor Plum says, “I figured we could scatter them together.”
“You couldn’t wait until her cremation before hopping on an airplane for England?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“In all honesty, I liked Hugh better.” Professor Plum says
“Didn’t we all,” Mrs. Peacock mutters under her breath
“So I was wondering if you had a guest room available.” Professor Plum ignores her comment
“Yes,” Mrs. Peacock says, “When will you be here?”
“Tomorrow morning.” Professor Plum says, “I was going to take a nice boat ride, but figured I’d miss Hugh’s funeral.”
“Smart move.” Mrs. Peacock says snidely, “I assume you are taking a train to Hampshire?”
“Absolutely.” Professor Plum says, “I read some of the best books on a train.”
“Lovely.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’ll see you then.” She hangs up
“Apparently my long-lost estranged brother is coming to visit.” Mrs. Peacock sits back down on the sofa
“Oh that seems fun.” Miss Thorn says
“But I have better news.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Come with me to my lawyer’s office. You won’t be disappointed.”
At the Meadow-Brook Home, Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook sits behind his desk smoking a cigar and going over some paper work. The telephone rings.
“Meadow-Brook,” he answers solemnly
“Sir, this is Reginald Ash.” Mr. Ash responds
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “How are things going over there?”
“Not too well I’m afraid.” Mr. Ash says, “Mrs. Black was wondering if you have the current edition of Dr. Black’s will on hand?”
“I keep all my important clients in my filing cabinet at home,” Mr. Meadow-Brook nods, “Don’t you think it’s a bit early to be digging through Hugh’s things? He hasn’t even been dead for 24 hours.”
“I agree with you whole-heartedly, sir.” Mr. Ash says, “Dr. Black’s father is here and claims the mansion is his we were hoping you could straighten this out.”
“Do you want me to come by Tudor Close?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“No, perhaps you could pull Mrs. Black aside during the dinner party at the Peacock’s tonight.” Mr. Ash says
“I don’t think we are going to the party.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “With Jessica’s death, we are not ready to socialize.”
“Well can you at least stop by the Peacock’s tonight to tell Sylvia.” Mr. Ash says, “She is really worked up.”
“I’ll see what I can do.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says hanging up. The front door opens and Mrs. Jane Meadow-Brook enters.
“It’s all over.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says wiping the tears from her eyes, “Our marriage, our family, everything.”
“Our marriage doesn’t have to end.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says standing up and walking over to her, “If anything, Jessica’s death has brought us closer together.
Mrs. Meadow-Brook forcefully slaps her husband, “Don’t talk about her like that.”
“Jane,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sighs
“I’m through.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “You got your bank number. Since Hugh is dead and has no written evidence that half the money in that account was his, you have all the money you can get your greedy little hands on.”
“Jane, I don’t care about the money.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Since when?” asks Mrs. Meadow-Brook
“Since I realized how much my family means to me.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I know we have had a rough few weeks, but I still think we should go to Monte Carlo with Sylvia like we planned. It could help get our mind off things.”
“You can’t be serious?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook shrieks
“I think it can definitely help us take our minds off of our problems.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Plus we could use some time away from Hampshire.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook nods slowly as she heads up the stairs.
“So it’s settled?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“We’ll talk about this later.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says disappearing up the stairs.
At Tudor Close, in the Study, Sir Bradford Black stands looking out the windows. Mrs. Sylvia Black sits in annoyance on the sofa near the back of the room. Mr. John Boddy stands in front of the desk admiring the wall moldings. Mrs. Blanche White enters the room with a notepad.
“I’ve called all the people for the funeral.” She tells Mrs. Black
“Wonderful.” Mrs. Black mumbles
“I’m glad you are here.” Sir Bradford Black says, “If you want to keep your job, you are going to need to be prompt and precise.”
“She works for me.” Mrs. Black points out
“She comes with the mansion.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Believe me, I’ll pay her twice as much as she gets here.”
“This isn’t up for discussion.” Mrs. Black says
“Don’t fret,’ Sir Bradford Black says, “You can visit the mansion anytime you wish.”
Mrs. Black seethes as she exits the Study
“Blanche,” Sir Bradford Black motions to her, “Take notes. I want this room entirely redecorated. New bookcases, a bigger desk, and for god’s sake, get rid of these garish curtains.”
“Sir?” Mrs. White raises an eyebrow with confusion
“He is preparing for the changes made to the mansion once everything is finalized.” Mr. Boddy explains
“I also would like a nice telescope here.” He motions to the window alcove, “I would be nice to see the stars at night. I want the secret passage sealed off.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I don’t want any trick doors in this house.”
Mrs. White quickly writes as quickly as possible. John Boddy begins to examine the open passageway.
“Where does this lead to?” asks Mr. Boddy
“The Kitchen,” Mrs. White answers
“Seal off the Kitchen side too,” Sir Bradford Black says, “In fact, I want it filled with concrete as to prevent any reopening.”
“Mrs. Black is checking with Hugh’s lawyer.” Mrs. White says, “What if Hugh didn’t make a new version of his will.”
“Oh he did.” Sir Bradford Black bites his lip, “I made certain of that.”
Mrs. White gets the uncomfortable feeling from the two foreboding men.
“Knock out the Conservatory,” Sir Bradford Black says
“I beg your pardon?” Mrs. White asks
“I want the Conservatory torn down.” Sir Bradford Black says, “We’ll turn it into a beautiful steam room; a stylish Turkish bath, perhaps.”
“A spa, sir?” Mrs. White raises her eyebrows
“I think it’s about time that we modernized Hampshire.” Sir Bradford Black says
“How much renovating did you have in mind?” asks Mrs. White
“The Ballroom doesn’t have a room above it.” Sir Bradford Black says, “It would make a nice large party patio.”
“We have a patio off the Library.” Mrs. White says
“Not big enough.” Sir Bradford Black says
“How many changes did you plan on making?” Mrs. White asks
“The Billiard Room seems a bit underused,” Sir Bradford Black says, “At least by me. I think a home theatre or cinema would fit the room much better.”
“But all that noise would cause disturbance in the Library.” Mrs. White says
“The Library won’t be the same either.” Sir Bradford Black says, “Auction off all the first editions and turn the Library into a cozy Living Room.”
“What about the Lounge?” Mrs. White says, “It is our living room currently.”
“I plan to turn it into my bedroom.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I’m far too old to use the stairs. The Dining Room and Kitchen can stay the same.”
“Sir,” Mrs. White can’t shake off her flustered feelings, “Tudor Close is a historical landmark in Hampshire. It is the perfect epitome of a proper English Mansion. Modernizing it may bring down it’s publicity.”
“I think these past few weeks have brought enough publicity to Hampshire.” Sir Bradford Black says, “It’s time to move on with the times.”
“It will still be called Tudor Close?” Mr. Boddy asks
“Tudor Close: The Reinvention.” Sir Bradford Black says continuing to stare of the window
“Oh god,” Mrs. White rolls her eyes