Episode 18 – “Arrivals and Departures” Part II
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Mr. Green informs Mrs. Black that he is unable to have children and that Jet couldn’t possibly be his. Jet and Mrs. Black leave with relief. Mr. Egret asks Mr. Green why he lied, given how Mr. Green has a daughter. Mr. Green informs Mr. Egret that the Black’s have been through enough. Tudor Close is swept away in an uproar as Hugh Black’s father, Sir Bradford Black and Hugh’s nephew, John Boddy arrive. Sir Bradford Black informs Mrs. Black that Tudor Close now belongs to him. Mrs. Black requests to speak with Mr. Meadow-Brook about the will. Mrs. Peacock receives a call from her American brother, Professor Gregory Plum who bears the news that their mother passed away in her sleep the previous night. Plum informs her that he is arriving the next morning to be there for Hugh’s funeral. He explains that their mother’s ashes will be shipped and they can scatter them together. At Tudor Close, Mrs. White takes notes as Sir Bradford Black explains the modernizing of Tudor Close, which includes turning the Billiard Room into a Theatre, the Conservatory into a Spa, and the Ballroom into a Patio. Mrs. White is furthest from happy about the idea…
-Saturday, April 16, 1949; 6.23 pm-
In the Study of the Peacock Residence, the only light in the room comes from a single lamp on the desk. The lamp shines on a written document beneath it. A woman lays face first on the floor in front of the desk. Her shoe has fallen off in what appears to be a struggle. Around her neck a noose is tightly tied. On the floor at the woman’s feet is a diamond engagement ring, which sparkles in the light of the desk lamp.
-SEVERAL HOURS EARLIER-
-Saturday, April 16, 1949-
-Midday-
At the local Market, Mrs. Melinda Myrtle shops for Mrs. Peacock’s dinner party that night. She picks up a bag of potatoes and sets them carefully in her cart. Miss Suzanne Ecru tearfully walks past her.
“Miss Ecru?” Mrs. Myrtle turns quickly
“Oh,” Miss Ecru turns around, “I didn’t notice you.”
“How have you been?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “I haven’t heard from you lately. Is everything alright at the Meadow-Brook’s?”
“You know how it is,” Miss Ecru says, “You are their lowly servants. You scrub their toilets and do their laundry.”
“I’ll admit it isn’t the best job,” Mrs. Myrtle chuckles, “But it puts bread on the table. Are you alright, you look rather flushed.”
“I’m fine.” Miss Ecru says, “Really, I am.”
Mrs. Myrtle still senses something is wrong, but doesn’t press her any further, “Well alright, have a good night off.”
“Yes,” Miss Ecru says, “I suppose Jane and Miles will be attending the commemorative feast at the Peacock Residence, honoring the lives lost during that homicidal maniac’s massacre.”
“It does seem a bit tacky.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “But Mrs. Peacock does love to throw dinner parties.”
“Would you like any help?” asks Miss Ecru
“Oh, no thank you dear.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “I can manage a dinner party on my own.”
“It wouldn’t be any problem for me.” Miss Ecru says
“I wouldn’t dream of asking you to work on your night off.” Mrs. Myrtle smiles
“Actually I really don’t want to be alone tonight.” Miss Ecru says quickly
“Oh?” Mrs. Myrtle catches hints of fear and desperation in Miss Ecru’s voice
“You know… the killings have left my mind a bit unsteady.” Miss Ecru chuckles nervously as a tear runs down her cheek.
“Oh, well, I can always use an extra pair of hands to peel the potatoes.” Mrs. Myrtle winks
At Tudor Close in the Billiard Room, Mrs. Sylvia Black angrily tosses darts at the dartboard above the sofa.
“Careful,” Sir Bradford Black says entering the room, “I don’t want any holes in the walls.”
“Believe me, it’s not the walls I want to hit.” Mrs. Black mutters
“Not that it matters,” Sir Bradford Black sits on the edge of the Billiard Table and rolls several balls back and forth, “After all, this room will be entirely renovated.”
“You talk with so much confidence.” Mrs. Black says hitting the bull’s eye of the dart board.
“I knew my son.” Sir Bradford Black says
“And I knew my husband.” Mrs. Black turns around and stares him in the eyes, “He hated you. He never let me forget that. Why the hell would he leave you anything more than a tiny pension?”
“Because I knew things.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I know my son hated me. But when I told him that I knew exactly what he did with his sister, which resulted in twins, he was too petrified to think. He asked me what I wanted, I told him everything. Tudor Close, the money, the yachts, even his nice little villa in Monte Carlo.”
Mrs. Black drops the darts on the floor.
“Careful, Sylvia,” Sir Bradford Black waves his finger at her as he gets off the edge of the Billiard Table, “I was hoping I could keep the floors the same in here.”
Sir Bradford Black exits the Billiard Room with a chuckle. Sylvia angrily walks over to the bar and pours herself a shot of whiskey. Mr. Ash enters the room from the Library.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook is going to talk to you tonight at Mrs. Peacock’s party.” Mr. Ash says
“It doesn’t matter.” Mrs. Black downs the shot and pours another
“It’s not even four o’clock.” Mr. Ash motions to the bottle of whiskey.
“Bradford blackmailed Hugh!” Mrs. Black shouts
“Oh my,” Mr. Ash’s eyes widen
“It’s over.” Mrs. Black says, “He won!”
“No, not necessarily,” Mr. Ash says picking up a dart from the floor
“What?” Mrs. Black turns around to see him fingering the point of the dart, “What are you thinking?”
“If something happened to Sir Bradford, before he was able to claim the money and the mansion, you would be the next in line.” Mr. Ash says
“You can’t honestly be serious.” Mrs. Black says, “Hasn’t this town gone through enough with Sergeant Gray’s rampage?”
“Madame Rose is convinced that a killer is still at large.” Mr. Ash says, “And if she is right and Bradford dies before the real killer is caught…”
“Then everything will resume back to normal.” Mrs. Black finishes his sentence
“But all for the sake of morality,” Mr. Ash clears his throat, “Let’s see what Miles has to say about the will.”
Mrs. Black hands Mr. Ash the whiskey shot, “Here, you deserved it.”
“Don’t mind if I do.” Mr. Ash downs it, “Care for a challenging game of darts?”
“Since we are gambling everything as it is, let’s make the game a little more interesting.” Mrs. Black smirks
At the Boat House, Scott Black sits on the edge of the pier tossing rocks into the water. Jet comes behind him.
“Is grandfather really going to take the house?” asks Scott
“Not if I have anything to say about it.” Jet sits down on a wooden post of the dock
“Why?” Scott asks, “What are you going to do?”
“I know people.” Jet says, “I can call on some favors, maybe have grandfather scared away.”
“He’s going to die next isn’t he?” Scott asks tossing a stone into the lake
“Probably.” Jet says nonchalantly, “You should realize by now that people can’t mess with this family and get away with it.”
“What about Cousin John?” asks Scott looking up at Jet
“His is only tough around grandfather.” Jet says, “Remember, grandfather took him in after his parents died in a shooting in Africa. Grandfather taught John to be a man. Never cry, never get pushed around, and never let anyone get in the way of what you want.”
“I don’t like them.” Scott says
“You’re a pretty good judge of character then,” Jet hops off the post, “Anyway, mother wants us to come to Mrs. Peacock’s house tonight.”
“Really?” asks Scott nervously
“Don’t worry, everything is over.” Jet says
“Then why am I still scared?” asks Scott
“Because blood has drenched Hampshire,” Jet says, “Everyone is uneasy.”
-Evening-
Mrs. Penelope Peacock stands at the Drawing Room window twisting her necklace nervously between her fingers. She is wearing a light blue evening gown with a turquoise colored shawl on her arms.
“You are worried, aren’t you?” Miss Cynthia Scarlet says from the doorway.
Mrs. Peacock turns to see Miss Scarlet standing in a radiant orange-red dress with ruby colored sequins on the trim.
“I didn’t realize how awkward it would be to have all these people in one house.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Especially since Hugh only died yesterday.”
“But the killer was caught.” Miss Scarlet says, “You need to relax. Enjoy your party.”
“You seem a bit different,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Earlier you were against the idea of a party.”
“Things have changed.” Miss Scarlet says with a bright smile.
As Mrs. Peacock passes Miss Scarlet, entering the Hall, Miss Scarlet’s smile quickly turns to a frown. The doorbell rings and Miss Ecru rushes to answer it.
“Oh, Miss Ecru?” Mrs. Peacock is a bit shocked
“I’m helping Mrs. Myrtle in the Kitchen,” Miss Ecru says, “I hope you don’t mind.”
“No, not at all.” Mrs. Peacock says standing in the Drawing Room doorway. Miss Scarlet sits down on the sofa and lights a cigarette. Miss Ecru opens the front door to see Miss Emily Peach grasping tightly onto her father, Colonel Algernon Mustard’s arm. Miss Peach is wearing a low cut orange dress with a white hand purse. Colonel Mustard is wearing a golden-brown suit coat with military badges over his heart. He is also walking with a black cane and a slight limp.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock embraces him, “I’m so glad you have recovered so soon.”
“He actually left the hospital last night.” Miss Peach playfully slaps his arm
“Well so long as you are well now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Please come in.”
“It’s a bit chilly outside.” Miss Peach says entering the home, “What lovely flowers.” She motions to the Hall table.
“Oh thank you,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I gathered them this morning.”
Miss Peach and Colonel Mustard enter the Drawing Room to see Miss Scarlet smoking on the sofa.
“Hello, Colonel.” Miss Scarlet says offering her hand elegantly to him. He kisses it gently, “And hello, Emily.” She bites her lip
“Hello, Cynthia,” Miss Peach says sitting down next to the fireplace, “I’m so happy you forgave Chandler. I hope we can still be friends even after that whole misunderstanding.”
“I’ll bet you do.” Miss Scarlet says, “If you’ll excuse me, I forgot to wear my engagement ring.”
Miss Scarlet exits the Drawing Room. Mrs. Peacock enters and stands next to Colonel Mustard, “I’m so glad you could come. I’ll have you know, that our parties don’t normally end like the one at Tudor Close.”
“I should hope not.” Miss Peach says, “There would be a lot less socialites.”
The awkwardness lingers in the air from Miss Peach’s attempt at a joke.
“Well, we are having honey roasted ham, mashed potatoes, and home grown green beans for the entrée tonight. There will also be a soup and salad as well as a small dessert.” Mrs. Peacock says
“You grow your own beans?” Colonel Mustard asks, “I never know when to plant them.”
“Oh these are from last year.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I store most of my herbs and vegetables in the cellar.”
“It must be rather spacious.” Colonel Mustard says
“Aren’t all the homes on this street nearly identical?” asks Miss Peach
“My basement is nothing more than a mere laundry room.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh, well if you’d like to see, perhaps we can do a quick tour before the guests arrive.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Emily, would you care to join us?”
“I think I’ll stay here.” Miss Peach smiles
Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard enter the Hall and head to the Kitchen. Miss Peach sits in silence for a moment then Miss Francesca Thorn enters the Drawing Room. She is wearing a moss colored skirt and a white blouse.
“I wasn’t sure anyone had arrived yet,” Miss Thorn says, “I was changing.”
“Just me and my father.” Miss Peach says
“Oh, then I don’t feel too bad.” Miss Thorn says
“You look awfully familiar.” Miss Peach says after scanning Miss Thorn’s face for a few moments
“Oh?” Miss Thorn asks, “I can’t imagine why. I’ve never been to Hampshire before.”
“No, I’m certain I’ve seen you before.” Miss Peach says, “In a picture or something.”
“I must have one of those faces.” Miss Thorn chuckles, “I’m Mrs. Peacock’s old school friend. Perhaps she has a photo album around.”
“I’ve never been here before.” Miss Peach says, “I’m not from Hampshire either.”
Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard return from the Cellar.
“Quite a storage space.” Colonel Mustard says entering the Drawing Room.
“Indeed,” Mrs. Peacock smiles
Colonel Mustard sees Miss Thorn and loses his balance, catching himself on the chair.
“Daddy?” Miss Peach rushes over to him
“What are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard asks Miss Thorn as he regains his balance.
“Hello, Algernon.” Miss Thorn says with a smirk
“You two know each other?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Of course!” Miss Peach says, “I saw your picture is my father’s house!”
“Constance, what are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard asks
“Constance?” Mrs. Peacock becomes quickly confused
“That’s his wife,” Miss Peach points, “Dame Constance Olivine!”
“Francesca?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “Is this true?”
“Of course it isn’t.” Miss Thorn says, “The real Dame Olivine is missing. That’s why it was so easy to pretend to be her, swoon a Colonel and make him agree to elope with me and move to a sleepy little town that no one has heard of.”
“Why?” Colonel Mustard says, “I thought you loved me!”
“All will be revealed in time.” Miss Thorn says slyly. The electricity flickers as howling wind blows against Hampshire once more.
The doorbell rings rapidly while the people in the Drawing Room stare in silence and awe at Miss Thorn.
Miss Ecru opens the front door and Mrs. Sylvia Black enters with Scott and Jet.
“The rain is starting up again.” Mrs. Black says, “I hate springtime.”
“But look at all the pretty flowers.” Miss Ecru motions to the Hall table. Mrs. Black and her boys enter the Drawing Room. The air is filled with fear, confusion, and sorrow.
“Penelope, you look lovely.” Mrs. Black embraces Mrs. Peacock who is still shocked at the knowledge of her school friend’s new identity.
“You do too,” Miss Thorn smiles politely from the sofa.
“Oh, I don’t think we’ve met.” Mrs. Black says extending her hand, “I’m Sylvia Black.”
“Francesca Thorn. Oh, darling,” Miss Thorn stands up and hugs her, “I am so sorry to hear about your husband’s death.”
Miss Peach and Mrs. Peacock exchange a look of concern.
“I’m not sure it has completely sunken in yet.” Mrs. Black says with a frown
“And you boys must be going through a lot.” Miss Thorn draws the two boys into her embrace, “I’m sure your father would be proud of how strong you are being.” Jet and Scott are lead away from Miss Thorn by Mrs. Peacock.
“Penelope,” Mrs. Black walks over to her, “Is Miles here yet?”
“I wasn’t sure if he was coming.” Mrs. Peacock says
“He is.” Mrs. Black says, “I have something I need to talk to him about regarding Hugh’s will. Could we use your Study?”
“Oh, of course.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’ll unlock it.”
Mrs. Peacock exits the Drawing Room.
“So does it always rain in Hampshire?” asks Miss Thorn
“There does seem to be a storm hovering around us.” Miss Peach says staring daggers at Miss Thorn
“I prefer Scotland.” Miss Thorn says
“I thought you preferred Italy?” Miss Peach asks
“Emily,” Colonel Mustard says softly, “I’ll deal with her later.”
Miss Peach nods and walks over to Scott and Jet and begins to make small talk with them. Mrs. Black sits on the sofa next to Miss Thorn and begins to talk with her. Miss Scarlet comes down the stairs wearing her engagement ring. She politely greets Mrs. Black and moves over to Colonel Mustard. The doorbell rings as Mrs. Peacock reenters the Drawing Room.
Mrs. Myrtle answers the front door this time. Mr. and Mrs. Meadow-Brook enter the mansion.
“Good evening,” Mrs. Myrtle says, “I hope you don’t mind, but Miss Ecru offered to help me in the Kitchen tonight.”
“Oh, not at all.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She is behaving herself, I hope.”
Mrs. Myrtle chuckles heading back to the Kitchen as the couple enters the Drawing Room.
“Miles,” Mrs. Black stands up anxiously
“The study is unlocked.” Mrs. Peacock motions
“Thank you.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says as the two of them exit the Drawing Room and enter the Study.
“Did you find out?” Mrs. Black asks as Mr. Meadow-Brook shuts the doors.
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Have a seat.”
Mrs. Black sits down on the window seat as she wrings her hands.
“Tudor Close now belongs to Sir Bradford Black.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“No!” Mrs. Black shrieks, “It can’t!”
“I understand your concern.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “The most I can do is stall the will.”
“What will that do?” asks Mrs. Black
“Perhaps give Bradford enough time to reconsider moving in.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“He’s not going to reconsider!” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t you get rid of this will and bring up an older copy?”
“All the older versions have been destroyed,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says heading to the doors, “There’s nothing I can do. I’m sorry.”
“Lose it.” Mrs. Black says
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks in confusion as he turns to face her
“Destroy the will.” Mrs. Black says, “He can’t claim it if there is no evidence that proves that it’s his.”
“But you won’t get it either.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“We can fight it in court!” Mrs. Black says, “I’m his wife. The jury is bound to side with me.”
“It’s too risky.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I can’t just show up and say that I had his last will destroyed before he had time to make a new one.”
“What if Bradford dies before he can claim it?” asks Mrs. Black
“What are you suggesting?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks
“Hypothetically, what if Bradford dies?” asks Mrs. Black
“Tudor Close and the money would go to your oldest son, Jet Black.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Since Jet isn’t 18,” Mrs. Black says, “That would mean…”
“You would hold onto the money and the deed to the mansion until he turns 18.” Mr. Meadow-Brook finishes her sentence.
Back in the Hall of the Peacock Residence, Mrs. Myrtle opens the door to find a bruised and bandaged Chandler Weiss standing in the rain.
“Gracious, come in.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “What happened?”
“Where is Cynthia?” Chandler asks as Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook exits the Study. Miss Scarlet enters the Hall and to see Chandler.
“Oh my God,” Miss Scarlet throws her arms around him, “What happened to you?”
“Get off of me.” Chandler shoves Miss Scarlet off of him
“Chandler!” Mrs. Myrtle covers her mouth in shock
“You really think hiring some thug to attack me is going to win me over?” Chandler asks
Mrs. Myrtle helps Miss Scarlet from the floor
“I’m fine, Mrs. Myrtle,” Miss Scarlet says
“I came here to tell you that it’s over.” Chandler grabs Miss Scarlet’s arm and pulls the ring off her finger. He tosses it into the Study, “It’s over. You are a manipulative heartless bitch. No wonder I slept with your step-mother.”
Chandler exits the house slamming the door. Miss Scarlet turns around and stares angrily at Mrs. Peacock.
“Cynthia, I can explain.” Mrs. Peacock steps into the Hall
“Save it!” Miss Scarlet says, “I heard you and Chandler expressing your love in the back yard the other day.”
“You have to understand where I’m coming from.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was a mistake.”
“No,” Miss Scarlet says, “The only mistake was the killer missing your head when he took a shot at you at Tudor Close.”
Miss Scarlet races upstairs.
“Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock calls after her.
“Maybe we should go.” Mrs. Black says
“No,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Please stay. Mrs. Myrtle, how long till dinner?”
“About fifteen minutes, ma’am.” Mrs. Myrtle says
Mrs. Peacock sighs and enters her Study. She closes the doors.
“This is getting serious.” Mrs. Black says
Upstairs in her bedroom, Miss Scarlet stands and tosses her hand mirror angrily at the wall. It shatters into pieces as she looks at herself in her vanity’s mirror. She tears the hair clip out of her hair and lets her hair fall loosely over her shoulders. She notices a slip of paper under her hairbrush. She quickly snatches it and unfolds it.
Cynthia, come to the Study after the party. There’s something you need to know. – Penelope.
In the Drawing Room, the uneasy guests shift uncomfortably in their seats after hearing the sudden outbursts in the Hall.
“I told you we weren’t safe,” Scott whispers to his brother
“It’s going to be okay.” Jet says putting his hand on his shoulder
Scott Black leaves his brother and walks towards his mother and Mr. Meadow-Brook who stand near the Study doors. Mrs. Peacock exits the Study with a glass of wine and bumps into Scott, drenching him.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says rather frantically, “Here’s let’s get you cleaned up in the Kitchen.”
Mrs. Peacock and Scott head down the hall to the Kitchen. Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook enter the Drawing Room
Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe I should go see if I can catch Chandler.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook looks at her in disgust. Mr. Meadow-Brook doesn’t make eye contact at all.
“Well you people sure know how to throw parties.” Miss Thorn says as Miss Peach exits the house.
“Francesca,” Colonel Mustard stands up, “May I speak to you alone?”
“If you must,” Miss Thorn stands up and enters the Hall with Colonel Mustard hot on her heels.
“So Miles was thinking about going ahead with our Monte Carlo plans.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says to Mrs. Black
“After all that happened, I thought time away from Hampshire would be appropriate.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I’m not sure about that.” Mrs. Black says looking up at Jet who stands at the window watching Miss Peach talk to Chandler in the rain.
“Really?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I was rather warming up to the idea.”
Up in her room, Miss Scarlet quickly looks out the window to see a car speeding out of the driveway. She opens her door and rushes downstairs, passing the Drawing Room, she enters the study to find that the only light in the room comes from a single lamp on the desk. The lamp shines on a written document beneath it. Miss Francesca Thorn lays face first on the floor in front of the desk. Her shoe has fallen off in what appears to be a struggle. Around her neck a noose is tightly tied. Miss Scarlet covers her mouth in horror as she picks up the document.
Dear Cynthia,
I never wanted you to get involved as much as you did. To be honest, if it hadn’t been for the accidental death of your father I wouldn’t be in the predicament I am in now. I’ll explain as best as I can, and the only way to do that is to start at the beginning. My brother, Gregory, and I were adopted. We knew that when we were teenagers. My adopted father always favored me and saw my brother Gregory as the son who would leave and never return once he was 18. That is exactly what he did. My brother left for America and became a Professor at a university. Daddy planned to leave his vast fortune for me. I would only inherit after the death of my adoptive mother. She hated me and I hated her. Her dying wish was to keep her alive as long as humanly possible. As she became sicker, her wish was granted. The finest doctors would be treating her and the finest medicines would be pumped through her retched body; all the while prolonging my inheritance. That is when I decided to settle down in a quaint little village and wait for my mother to die. The only trouble is, we were carrying a secret and a blackmailer was in the neighborhood. Celeste Curry. She began to blackmail me about the accidental switching of the pills which killed your father and the fact that we ran from the police and lied to cover it up. It was when I paid her that we realized the connection. The grey eyes like all members of the Black Family have. She was my mother. My birth mother. I realized it would soon be over. If word got around that my mother was found and I was associating with her, that rotten bitch of an adoptive mother would get her lawyers to cut me off completely. I kept Celeste as quiet as I could until I found her diary. She wasn’t Celeste Curry at all. Celeste Curry was an alias she adopted after getting in trouble with the law. Her real name was Estelle Black. I then realized that the Black family has a dark secret involving drugs, adoptions, and incest. She slept with her brother, Hugh, when he was 14. Hugh Black was my father! I realized then that incest really did run in the family. I was engaged to my own father for five months! I decided then and there that the blackmailing needed to stop and that Hugh and Estelle Black needed to die. I could not have any member of my biological family interfering with the money I was supposed to get! I remember my old friend Francesca Thorn who helped me cover up my sister and your father’s deaths. I told her to make a way to get to Hampshire. She told me that she would be there in a few months. I needed to plan out my moves carefully. Francesca informed me that she will be posing as a famous Dame from Italy. She then swooned a dashing Colonel; the same Colonel I knew from years ago. She sent Colonel Mustard to get the house prepared while she tended to her ill father, when in reality she arrived in Hampshire before the house was even bought. The plan was arranged and we began with the first step. I told Celeste that I wanted to help her with her blackmailing scheme and had the Private Investigator, Marcus Citrine go to the forest behind the Black’s house. I told him I would be there to show him where Bryce Black was allegedly buried. When he arrived there it wasn’t me he met, but Miss Thorn, who constantly beat him with a brick until he was dead. As she did that I had gained the information of my mother’s relationship with Sabata Bronce, who I’m sure, would be poking around after my mother’s disappearance. Francesca returned and we strangled my mother. We then got in my car and waited around the bend for Sabata to leave for work. We ran him over. Francesca and I put him in the trunk and got out of there before anyone saw us. In haste to get out of there we got a flat tire. Fortunately I heard from Francesca that her ‘husband’ was a handy mechanic and would change my tire if I asked him to. We stowed the unconscious Sabata in the crawlspace and decided to wait it out. Francesca stayed at a cheesy hotel in town and we waited. However I saw Scott Black persistently trying to get Ms. Curry to answer her door. I grabbed him and dragged him inside. I tossed the boy into the crawlspace as well. I had to make sure my identity had not been revealed. While checking on the hostages I heard Chandler and Mrs. Meadow-Brook enter. I hid in the shower prepared to kill anyone who dared to cross me. Chandler pulled back the shower curtain and I hit him. He didn’t have a chance to look in my direction. I dragged him back down after making sure Jane left. I decided that the body needed to be found. I knew the police would find out about our secret. Ms. Curry obviously held onto the information. So I dosed the house in gasoline and waited for the furnace to ignite the place. After that it was simple. Since I didn’t get a chance to kill Hugh at my Dinner Party because they left early, I thought a “Thank Goodness They Are Alright” party would get everyone together. People who hated Hugh would be there. It was perfect. A few days earlier I had Francesca switch is heart pills with pills laced with heroin. However he survived somehow. I decided we needed to take matters into our own hands. Francesca snuck in and helped me. She found a kitchen knife in the Ballroom and we both tracked down Hugh. Once I found him I gave him the horror of telling him that I was his daughter before killing him. Francesca took care of the body while I cleaned up. Only Francesca left the knife with him. I retrieved it but the bathroom was occupied. I ran to the Conservatory and began to wipe it in the leaves. Mrs. Black almost caught me but I turned it into angrily cutting off the leaves. When I heard Mrs. White tell everyone that Hugh said “Penelope isn’t safe” I knew exactly what he meant. I wasn’t safe. I was unsafe. I was the danger. Everyone just assumed he meant I was in danger. It was perfect. Thankfully I was able to have Francesca shoot at me that night: giving me the perfect alibi.
In closing I am gone and you will never find me. I am now going to start a new life and I hope to God you don’t track me down. Cynthia, burn this letter.
- With Love, Penelope
In her car, Mrs. Penelope Peacock drives quickly through the wind and rain as she flees Hampshire. She glances over at the passenger seat where Scott Black sits terrified.
“You sit tight.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I won’t hurt you. We are going to start our lives fresh in Paris.”
-Saturday, April 16, 1949; 6.23 pm-
In the Study of the Peacock Residence, the only light in the room comes from a single lamp on the desk. The lamp shines on a written document beneath it. A woman lays face first on the floor in front of the desk. Her shoe has fallen off in what appears to be a struggle. Around her neck a noose is tightly tied. On the floor at the woman’s feet is a diamond engagement ring, which sparkles in the light of the desk lamp.
-SEVERAL HOURS EARLIER-
-Saturday, April 16, 1949-
-Midday-
At the local Market, Mrs. Melinda Myrtle shops for Mrs. Peacock’s dinner party that night. She picks up a bag of potatoes and sets them carefully in her cart. Miss Suzanne Ecru tearfully walks past her.
“Miss Ecru?” Mrs. Myrtle turns quickly
“Oh,” Miss Ecru turns around, “I didn’t notice you.”
“How have you been?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “I haven’t heard from you lately. Is everything alright at the Meadow-Brook’s?”
“You know how it is,” Miss Ecru says, “You are their lowly servants. You scrub their toilets and do their laundry.”
“I’ll admit it isn’t the best job,” Mrs. Myrtle chuckles, “But it puts bread on the table. Are you alright, you look rather flushed.”
“I’m fine.” Miss Ecru says, “Really, I am.”
Mrs. Myrtle still senses something is wrong, but doesn’t press her any further, “Well alright, have a good night off.”
“Yes,” Miss Ecru says, “I suppose Jane and Miles will be attending the commemorative feast at the Peacock Residence, honoring the lives lost during that homicidal maniac’s massacre.”
“It does seem a bit tacky.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “But Mrs. Peacock does love to throw dinner parties.”
“Would you like any help?” asks Miss Ecru
“Oh, no thank you dear.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “I can manage a dinner party on my own.”
“It wouldn’t be any problem for me.” Miss Ecru says
“I wouldn’t dream of asking you to work on your night off.” Mrs. Myrtle smiles
“Actually I really don’t want to be alone tonight.” Miss Ecru says quickly
“Oh?” Mrs. Myrtle catches hints of fear and desperation in Miss Ecru’s voice
“You know… the killings have left my mind a bit unsteady.” Miss Ecru chuckles nervously as a tear runs down her cheek.
“Oh, well, I can always use an extra pair of hands to peel the potatoes.” Mrs. Myrtle winks
At Tudor Close in the Billiard Room, Mrs. Sylvia Black angrily tosses darts at the dartboard above the sofa.
“Careful,” Sir Bradford Black says entering the room, “I don’t want any holes in the walls.”
“Believe me, it’s not the walls I want to hit.” Mrs. Black mutters
“Not that it matters,” Sir Bradford Black sits on the edge of the Billiard Table and rolls several balls back and forth, “After all, this room will be entirely renovated.”
“You talk with so much confidence.” Mrs. Black says hitting the bull’s eye of the dart board.
“I knew my son.” Sir Bradford Black says
“And I knew my husband.” Mrs. Black turns around and stares him in the eyes, “He hated you. He never let me forget that. Why the hell would he leave you anything more than a tiny pension?”
“Because I knew things.” Sir Bradford Black says, “I know my son hated me. But when I told him that I knew exactly what he did with his sister, which resulted in twins, he was too petrified to think. He asked me what I wanted, I told him everything. Tudor Close, the money, the yachts, even his nice little villa in Monte Carlo.”
Mrs. Black drops the darts on the floor.
“Careful, Sylvia,” Sir Bradford Black waves his finger at her as he gets off the edge of the Billiard Table, “I was hoping I could keep the floors the same in here.”
Sir Bradford Black exits the Billiard Room with a chuckle. Sylvia angrily walks over to the bar and pours herself a shot of whiskey. Mr. Ash enters the room from the Library.
“Mr. Meadow-Brook is going to talk to you tonight at Mrs. Peacock’s party.” Mr. Ash says
“It doesn’t matter.” Mrs. Black downs the shot and pours another
“It’s not even four o’clock.” Mr. Ash motions to the bottle of whiskey.
“Bradford blackmailed Hugh!” Mrs. Black shouts
“Oh my,” Mr. Ash’s eyes widen
“It’s over.” Mrs. Black says, “He won!”
“No, not necessarily,” Mr. Ash says picking up a dart from the floor
“What?” Mrs. Black turns around to see him fingering the point of the dart, “What are you thinking?”
“If something happened to Sir Bradford, before he was able to claim the money and the mansion, you would be the next in line.” Mr. Ash says
“You can’t honestly be serious.” Mrs. Black says, “Hasn’t this town gone through enough with Sergeant Gray’s rampage?”
“Madame Rose is convinced that a killer is still at large.” Mr. Ash says, “And if she is right and Bradford dies before the real killer is caught…”
“Then everything will resume back to normal.” Mrs. Black finishes his sentence
“But all for the sake of morality,” Mr. Ash clears his throat, “Let’s see what Miles has to say about the will.”
Mrs. Black hands Mr. Ash the whiskey shot, “Here, you deserved it.”
“Don’t mind if I do.” Mr. Ash downs it, “Care for a challenging game of darts?”
“Since we are gambling everything as it is, let’s make the game a little more interesting.” Mrs. Black smirks
At the Boat House, Scott Black sits on the edge of the pier tossing rocks into the water. Jet comes behind him.
“Is grandfather really going to take the house?” asks Scott
“Not if I have anything to say about it.” Jet sits down on a wooden post of the dock
“Why?” Scott asks, “What are you going to do?”
“I know people.” Jet says, “I can call on some favors, maybe have grandfather scared away.”
“He’s going to die next isn’t he?” Scott asks tossing a stone into the lake
“Probably.” Jet says nonchalantly, “You should realize by now that people can’t mess with this family and get away with it.”
“What about Cousin John?” asks Scott looking up at Jet
“His is only tough around grandfather.” Jet says, “Remember, grandfather took him in after his parents died in a shooting in Africa. Grandfather taught John to be a man. Never cry, never get pushed around, and never let anyone get in the way of what you want.”
“I don’t like them.” Scott says
“You’re a pretty good judge of character then,” Jet hops off the post, “Anyway, mother wants us to come to Mrs. Peacock’s house tonight.”
“Really?” asks Scott nervously
“Don’t worry, everything is over.” Jet says
“Then why am I still scared?” asks Scott
“Because blood has drenched Hampshire,” Jet says, “Everyone is uneasy.”
-Evening-
Mrs. Penelope Peacock stands at the Drawing Room window twisting her necklace nervously between her fingers. She is wearing a light blue evening gown with a turquoise colored shawl on her arms.
“You are worried, aren’t you?” Miss Cynthia Scarlet says from the doorway.
Mrs. Peacock turns to see Miss Scarlet standing in a radiant orange-red dress with ruby colored sequins on the trim.
“I didn’t realize how awkward it would be to have all these people in one house.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Especially since Hugh only died yesterday.”
“But the killer was caught.” Miss Scarlet says, “You need to relax. Enjoy your party.”
“You seem a bit different,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Earlier you were against the idea of a party.”
“Things have changed.” Miss Scarlet says with a bright smile.
As Mrs. Peacock passes Miss Scarlet, entering the Hall, Miss Scarlet’s smile quickly turns to a frown. The doorbell rings and Miss Ecru rushes to answer it.
“Oh, Miss Ecru?” Mrs. Peacock is a bit shocked
“I’m helping Mrs. Myrtle in the Kitchen,” Miss Ecru says, “I hope you don’t mind.”
“No, not at all.” Mrs. Peacock says standing in the Drawing Room doorway. Miss Scarlet sits down on the sofa and lights a cigarette. Miss Ecru opens the front door to see Miss Emily Peach grasping tightly onto her father, Colonel Algernon Mustard’s arm. Miss Peach is wearing a low cut orange dress with a white hand purse. Colonel Mustard is wearing a golden-brown suit coat with military badges over his heart. He is also walking with a black cane and a slight limp.
“Colonel,” Mrs. Peacock embraces him, “I’m so glad you have recovered so soon.”
“He actually left the hospital last night.” Miss Peach playfully slaps his arm
“Well so long as you are well now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Please come in.”
“It’s a bit chilly outside.” Miss Peach says entering the home, “What lovely flowers.” She motions to the Hall table.
“Oh thank you,” Mrs. Peacock says, “I gathered them this morning.”
Miss Peach and Colonel Mustard enter the Drawing Room to see Miss Scarlet smoking on the sofa.
“Hello, Colonel.” Miss Scarlet says offering her hand elegantly to him. He kisses it gently, “And hello, Emily.” She bites her lip
“Hello, Cynthia,” Miss Peach says sitting down next to the fireplace, “I’m so happy you forgave Chandler. I hope we can still be friends even after that whole misunderstanding.”
“I’ll bet you do.” Miss Scarlet says, “If you’ll excuse me, I forgot to wear my engagement ring.”
Miss Scarlet exits the Drawing Room. Mrs. Peacock enters and stands next to Colonel Mustard, “I’m so glad you could come. I’ll have you know, that our parties don’t normally end like the one at Tudor Close.”
“I should hope not.” Miss Peach says, “There would be a lot less socialites.”
The awkwardness lingers in the air from Miss Peach’s attempt at a joke.
“Well, we are having honey roasted ham, mashed potatoes, and home grown green beans for the entrée tonight. There will also be a soup and salad as well as a small dessert.” Mrs. Peacock says
“You grow your own beans?” Colonel Mustard asks, “I never know when to plant them.”
“Oh these are from last year.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I store most of my herbs and vegetables in the cellar.”
“It must be rather spacious.” Colonel Mustard says
“Aren’t all the homes on this street nearly identical?” asks Miss Peach
“My basement is nothing more than a mere laundry room.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh, well if you’d like to see, perhaps we can do a quick tour before the guests arrive.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Emily, would you care to join us?”
“I think I’ll stay here.” Miss Peach smiles
Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard enter the Hall and head to the Kitchen. Miss Peach sits in silence for a moment then Miss Francesca Thorn enters the Drawing Room. She is wearing a moss colored skirt and a white blouse.
“I wasn’t sure anyone had arrived yet,” Miss Thorn says, “I was changing.”
“Just me and my father.” Miss Peach says
“Oh, then I don’t feel too bad.” Miss Thorn says
“You look awfully familiar.” Miss Peach says after scanning Miss Thorn’s face for a few moments
“Oh?” Miss Thorn asks, “I can’t imagine why. I’ve never been to Hampshire before.”
“No, I’m certain I’ve seen you before.” Miss Peach says, “In a picture or something.”
“I must have one of those faces.” Miss Thorn chuckles, “I’m Mrs. Peacock’s old school friend. Perhaps she has a photo album around.”
“I’ve never been here before.” Miss Peach says, “I’m not from Hampshire either.”
Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard return from the Cellar.
“Quite a storage space.” Colonel Mustard says entering the Drawing Room.
“Indeed,” Mrs. Peacock smiles
Colonel Mustard sees Miss Thorn and loses his balance, catching himself on the chair.
“Daddy?” Miss Peach rushes over to him
“What are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard asks Miss Thorn as he regains his balance.
“Hello, Algernon.” Miss Thorn says with a smirk
“You two know each other?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Of course!” Miss Peach says, “I saw your picture is my father’s house!”
“Constance, what are you doing here?” Colonel Mustard asks
“Constance?” Mrs. Peacock becomes quickly confused
“That’s his wife,” Miss Peach points, “Dame Constance Olivine!”
“Francesca?” asks Mrs. Peacock, “Is this true?”
“Of course it isn’t.” Miss Thorn says, “The real Dame Olivine is missing. That’s why it was so easy to pretend to be her, swoon a Colonel and make him agree to elope with me and move to a sleepy little town that no one has heard of.”
“Why?” Colonel Mustard says, “I thought you loved me!”
“All will be revealed in time.” Miss Thorn says slyly. The electricity flickers as howling wind blows against Hampshire once more.
The doorbell rings rapidly while the people in the Drawing Room stare in silence and awe at Miss Thorn.
Miss Ecru opens the front door and Mrs. Sylvia Black enters with Scott and Jet.
“The rain is starting up again.” Mrs. Black says, “I hate springtime.”
“But look at all the pretty flowers.” Miss Ecru motions to the Hall table. Mrs. Black and her boys enter the Drawing Room. The air is filled with fear, confusion, and sorrow.
“Penelope, you look lovely.” Mrs. Black embraces Mrs. Peacock who is still shocked at the knowledge of her school friend’s new identity.
“You do too,” Miss Thorn smiles politely from the sofa.
“Oh, I don’t think we’ve met.” Mrs. Black says extending her hand, “I’m Sylvia Black.”
“Francesca Thorn. Oh, darling,” Miss Thorn stands up and hugs her, “I am so sorry to hear about your husband’s death.”
Miss Peach and Mrs. Peacock exchange a look of concern.
“I’m not sure it has completely sunken in yet.” Mrs. Black says with a frown
“And you boys must be going through a lot.” Miss Thorn draws the two boys into her embrace, “I’m sure your father would be proud of how strong you are being.” Jet and Scott are lead away from Miss Thorn by Mrs. Peacock.
“Penelope,” Mrs. Black walks over to her, “Is Miles here yet?”
“I wasn’t sure if he was coming.” Mrs. Peacock says
“He is.” Mrs. Black says, “I have something I need to talk to him about regarding Hugh’s will. Could we use your Study?”
“Oh, of course.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I’ll unlock it.”
Mrs. Peacock exits the Drawing Room.
“So does it always rain in Hampshire?” asks Miss Thorn
“There does seem to be a storm hovering around us.” Miss Peach says staring daggers at Miss Thorn
“I prefer Scotland.” Miss Thorn says
“I thought you preferred Italy?” Miss Peach asks
“Emily,” Colonel Mustard says softly, “I’ll deal with her later.”
Miss Peach nods and walks over to Scott and Jet and begins to make small talk with them. Mrs. Black sits on the sofa next to Miss Thorn and begins to talk with her. Miss Scarlet comes down the stairs wearing her engagement ring. She politely greets Mrs. Black and moves over to Colonel Mustard. The doorbell rings as Mrs. Peacock reenters the Drawing Room.
Mrs. Myrtle answers the front door this time. Mr. and Mrs. Meadow-Brook enter the mansion.
“Good evening,” Mrs. Myrtle says, “I hope you don’t mind, but Miss Ecru offered to help me in the Kitchen tonight.”
“Oh, not at all.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “She is behaving herself, I hope.”
Mrs. Myrtle chuckles heading back to the Kitchen as the couple enters the Drawing Room.
“Miles,” Mrs. Black stands up anxiously
“The study is unlocked.” Mrs. Peacock motions
“Thank you.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says as the two of them exit the Drawing Room and enter the Study.
“Did you find out?” Mrs. Black asks as Mr. Meadow-Brook shuts the doors.
“Yes,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Have a seat.”
Mrs. Black sits down on the window seat as she wrings her hands.
“Tudor Close now belongs to Sir Bradford Black.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“No!” Mrs. Black shrieks, “It can’t!”
“I understand your concern.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “The most I can do is stall the will.”
“What will that do?” asks Mrs. Black
“Perhaps give Bradford enough time to reconsider moving in.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“He’s not going to reconsider!” Mrs. Black says, “Can’t you get rid of this will and bring up an older copy?”
“All the older versions have been destroyed,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says heading to the doors, “There’s nothing I can do. I’m sorry.”
“Lose it.” Mrs. Black says
“I beg your pardon?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks in confusion as he turns to face her
“Destroy the will.” Mrs. Black says, “He can’t claim it if there is no evidence that proves that it’s his.”
“But you won’t get it either.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“We can fight it in court!” Mrs. Black says, “I’m his wife. The jury is bound to side with me.”
“It’s too risky.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I can’t just show up and say that I had his last will destroyed before he had time to make a new one.”
“What if Bradford dies before he can claim it?” asks Mrs. Black
“What are you suggesting?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks
“Hypothetically, what if Bradford dies?” asks Mrs. Black
“Tudor Close and the money would go to your oldest son, Jet Black.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Since Jet isn’t 18,” Mrs. Black says, “That would mean…”
“You would hold onto the money and the deed to the mansion until he turns 18.” Mr. Meadow-Brook finishes her sentence.
Back in the Hall of the Peacock Residence, Mrs. Myrtle opens the door to find a bruised and bandaged Chandler Weiss standing in the rain.
“Gracious, come in.” Mrs. Myrtle says, “What happened?”
“Where is Cynthia?” Chandler asks as Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook exits the Study. Miss Scarlet enters the Hall and to see Chandler.
“Oh my God,” Miss Scarlet throws her arms around him, “What happened to you?”
“Get off of me.” Chandler shoves Miss Scarlet off of him
“Chandler!” Mrs. Myrtle covers her mouth in shock
“You really think hiring some thug to attack me is going to win me over?” Chandler asks
Mrs. Myrtle helps Miss Scarlet from the floor
“I’m fine, Mrs. Myrtle,” Miss Scarlet says
“I came here to tell you that it’s over.” Chandler grabs Miss Scarlet’s arm and pulls the ring off her finger. He tosses it into the Study, “It’s over. You are a manipulative heartless bitch. No wonder I slept with your step-mother.”
Chandler exits the house slamming the door. Miss Scarlet turns around and stares angrily at Mrs. Peacock.
“Cynthia, I can explain.” Mrs. Peacock steps into the Hall
“Save it!” Miss Scarlet says, “I heard you and Chandler expressing your love in the back yard the other day.”
“You have to understand where I’m coming from.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It was a mistake.”
“No,” Miss Scarlet says, “The only mistake was the killer missing your head when he took a shot at you at Tudor Close.”
Miss Scarlet races upstairs.
“Cynthia.” Mrs. Peacock calls after her.
“Maybe we should go.” Mrs. Black says
“No,” Mrs. Peacock says, “Please stay. Mrs. Myrtle, how long till dinner?”
“About fifteen minutes, ma’am.” Mrs. Myrtle says
Mrs. Peacock sighs and enters her Study. She closes the doors.
“This is getting serious.” Mrs. Black says
Upstairs in her bedroom, Miss Scarlet stands and tosses her hand mirror angrily at the wall. It shatters into pieces as she looks at herself in her vanity’s mirror. She tears the hair clip out of her hair and lets her hair fall loosely over her shoulders. She notices a slip of paper under her hairbrush. She quickly snatches it and unfolds it.
Cynthia, come to the Study after the party. There’s something you need to know. – Penelope.
In the Drawing Room, the uneasy guests shift uncomfortably in their seats after hearing the sudden outbursts in the Hall.
“I told you we weren’t safe,” Scott whispers to his brother
“It’s going to be okay.” Jet says putting his hand on his shoulder
Scott Black leaves his brother and walks towards his mother and Mr. Meadow-Brook who stand near the Study doors. Mrs. Peacock exits the Study with a glass of wine and bumps into Scott, drenching him.
“Oh, I’m sorry.” Mrs. Peacock says rather frantically, “Here’s let’s get you cleaned up in the Kitchen.”
Mrs. Peacock and Scott head down the hall to the Kitchen. Mrs. Black and Mr. Meadow-Brook enter the Drawing Room
Miss Peach stands up, “Maybe I should go see if I can catch Chandler.”
Mrs. Meadow-Brook looks at her in disgust. Mr. Meadow-Brook doesn’t make eye contact at all.
“Well you people sure know how to throw parties.” Miss Thorn says as Miss Peach exits the house.
“Francesca,” Colonel Mustard stands up, “May I speak to you alone?”
“If you must,” Miss Thorn stands up and enters the Hall with Colonel Mustard hot on her heels.
“So Miles was thinking about going ahead with our Monte Carlo plans.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says to Mrs. Black
“After all that happened, I thought time away from Hampshire would be appropriate.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“I’m not sure about that.” Mrs. Black says looking up at Jet who stands at the window watching Miss Peach talk to Chandler in the rain.
“Really?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I was rather warming up to the idea.”
Up in her room, Miss Scarlet quickly looks out the window to see a car speeding out of the driveway. She opens her door and rushes downstairs, passing the Drawing Room, she enters the study to find that the only light in the room comes from a single lamp on the desk. The lamp shines on a written document beneath it. Miss Francesca Thorn lays face first on the floor in front of the desk. Her shoe has fallen off in what appears to be a struggle. Around her neck a noose is tightly tied. Miss Scarlet covers her mouth in horror as she picks up the document.
Dear Cynthia,
I never wanted you to get involved as much as you did. To be honest, if it hadn’t been for the accidental death of your father I wouldn’t be in the predicament I am in now. I’ll explain as best as I can, and the only way to do that is to start at the beginning. My brother, Gregory, and I were adopted. We knew that when we were teenagers. My adopted father always favored me and saw my brother Gregory as the son who would leave and never return once he was 18. That is exactly what he did. My brother left for America and became a Professor at a university. Daddy planned to leave his vast fortune for me. I would only inherit after the death of my adoptive mother. She hated me and I hated her. Her dying wish was to keep her alive as long as humanly possible. As she became sicker, her wish was granted. The finest doctors would be treating her and the finest medicines would be pumped through her retched body; all the while prolonging my inheritance. That is when I decided to settle down in a quaint little village and wait for my mother to die. The only trouble is, we were carrying a secret and a blackmailer was in the neighborhood. Celeste Curry. She began to blackmail me about the accidental switching of the pills which killed your father and the fact that we ran from the police and lied to cover it up. It was when I paid her that we realized the connection. The grey eyes like all members of the Black Family have. She was my mother. My birth mother. I realized it would soon be over. If word got around that my mother was found and I was associating with her, that rotten bitch of an adoptive mother would get her lawyers to cut me off completely. I kept Celeste as quiet as I could until I found her diary. She wasn’t Celeste Curry at all. Celeste Curry was an alias she adopted after getting in trouble with the law. Her real name was Estelle Black. I then realized that the Black family has a dark secret involving drugs, adoptions, and incest. She slept with her brother, Hugh, when he was 14. Hugh Black was my father! I realized then that incest really did run in the family. I was engaged to my own father for five months! I decided then and there that the blackmailing needed to stop and that Hugh and Estelle Black needed to die. I could not have any member of my biological family interfering with the money I was supposed to get! I remember my old friend Francesca Thorn who helped me cover up my sister and your father’s deaths. I told her to make a way to get to Hampshire. She told me that she would be there in a few months. I needed to plan out my moves carefully. Francesca informed me that she will be posing as a famous Dame from Italy. She then swooned a dashing Colonel; the same Colonel I knew from years ago. She sent Colonel Mustard to get the house prepared while she tended to her ill father, when in reality she arrived in Hampshire before the house was even bought. The plan was arranged and we began with the first step. I told Celeste that I wanted to help her with her blackmailing scheme and had the Private Investigator, Marcus Citrine go to the forest behind the Black’s house. I told him I would be there to show him where Bryce Black was allegedly buried. When he arrived there it wasn’t me he met, but Miss Thorn, who constantly beat him with a brick until he was dead. As she did that I had gained the information of my mother’s relationship with Sabata Bronce, who I’m sure, would be poking around after my mother’s disappearance. Francesca returned and we strangled my mother. We then got in my car and waited around the bend for Sabata to leave for work. We ran him over. Francesca and I put him in the trunk and got out of there before anyone saw us. In haste to get out of there we got a flat tire. Fortunately I heard from Francesca that her ‘husband’ was a handy mechanic and would change my tire if I asked him to. We stowed the unconscious Sabata in the crawlspace and decided to wait it out. Francesca stayed at a cheesy hotel in town and we waited. However I saw Scott Black persistently trying to get Ms. Curry to answer her door. I grabbed him and dragged him inside. I tossed the boy into the crawlspace as well. I had to make sure my identity had not been revealed. While checking on the hostages I heard Chandler and Mrs. Meadow-Brook enter. I hid in the shower prepared to kill anyone who dared to cross me. Chandler pulled back the shower curtain and I hit him. He didn’t have a chance to look in my direction. I dragged him back down after making sure Jane left. I decided that the body needed to be found. I knew the police would find out about our secret. Ms. Curry obviously held onto the information. So I dosed the house in gasoline and waited for the furnace to ignite the place. After that it was simple. Since I didn’t get a chance to kill Hugh at my Dinner Party because they left early, I thought a “Thank Goodness They Are Alright” party would get everyone together. People who hated Hugh would be there. It was perfect. A few days earlier I had Francesca switch is heart pills with pills laced with heroin. However he survived somehow. I decided we needed to take matters into our own hands. Francesca snuck in and helped me. She found a kitchen knife in the Ballroom and we both tracked down Hugh. Once I found him I gave him the horror of telling him that I was his daughter before killing him. Francesca took care of the body while I cleaned up. Only Francesca left the knife with him. I retrieved it but the bathroom was occupied. I ran to the Conservatory and began to wipe it in the leaves. Mrs. Black almost caught me but I turned it into angrily cutting off the leaves. When I heard Mrs. White tell everyone that Hugh said “Penelope isn’t safe” I knew exactly what he meant. I wasn’t safe. I was unsafe. I was the danger. Everyone just assumed he meant I was in danger. It was perfect. Thankfully I was able to have Francesca shoot at me that night: giving me the perfect alibi.
In closing I am gone and you will never find me. I am now going to start a new life and I hope to God you don’t track me down. Cynthia, burn this letter.
- With Love, Penelope
In her car, Mrs. Penelope Peacock drives quickly through the wind and rain as she flees Hampshire. She glances over at the passenger seat where Scott Black sits terrified.
“You sit tight.” Mrs. Peacock says, “I won’t hurt you. We are going to start our lives fresh in Paris.”