Episode 23 – “A Little Family History”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Cynthia Scarlet alerts the Meadow-Brook’s that Chandler and Miss Peach have been missing for three days. Miles and Cynthia find Miss Peach has gone crazy and is holding Chandler at gun point. Miss Peach confesses to being the one who hired Dante to attack Chandler. Miss Peach reveals that the reason she is so desperate for men is because her father raped her when she was seven and she longs for closure. She explains that her older sister was always perfect and everyone loved her. Miss Scarlet tells Miss Peach that Chandler would love her sister more. Miss Peach shoots at Miss Scarlet but the bullet ends up in Miles’ chest. At the hospital, Miles Meadow-Brook wakes up and Jane tells him that she knows that he raped their housekeeper. She blackmails him for all the money in the off shore account and tells him that their marriage is over…
-Tuesday, April 19, 1949; 5.37 pm-
In the Conservatory of Tudor Close, Madame Claire Rose sits on the wicker loveseat near the window alcove. Mrs. White fills a watering can in the sink near the door.
“Mr. Ash said that you wanted to speak to me.” Jet says upon entering the room
“Yes,” Madame Rose says, “Please sit down. I have some distressing news.” Mrs. White turns her attention to Jet.
“What’s wrong?” asks Jet as he sits down in the wicker chair near his aunt.
“It’s about the people in this house.” Mrs. White says beginning to water the plants in the plant stands near the door.
“John and Bradford?” asks Jet
“Yes,” Madame Rose frowns, “Your cousin and your grandfather are carrying with them a horrible evil.”
“I know.” Jet says lowering his head.
“Tell me,” Madame Rose touches his hand
“I can’t.” Jet says fearing that John will find out
“Then we cannot put an end to this!” Mrs. White says with fear in her eyes
“For a while I thought that their deaths would be a stop to the pandemonium in our lives.” Jet says, “But now I realize that they are more involved that we think.”
“Tell us!” Mrs. White begs, her arms shaking as water begins to spill out
Jet takes a deep breath, “Mrs. Peacock is working for them.”
Deathly silence fills the room as Madame Rose and Mrs. White try to take in the new information.
“My God,” Mrs. White clutches her chest, “This was all a scheme for Bradford to be the rightful heir to Tudor Close.”
“He was always jealous of Hugh.” Madame Rose explains, “Everyone was.”
“Even you?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Madame Rose says, “I never cared of material possessions such as money or mansions.”
“Then what did you mean by everyone?” Jet asks
“Our sister Estelle was jealous much like Bradford was.” Madame Rose explains, “The money didn’t come from my father. It came from my mother. Upon my mother’s death after her long illness, my father greedily expected his inheritance much as Estelle did, but it was Hugh who inherited everything. My father and Estelle didn’t get a dime.”
“But they live so lavishly.” Mrs. White says with a puzzled look on her face.
“That’s because he asked for money from Hugh.” A voice says from the Conservatory doorway
Madame Rose jumps a little at the sound of the gruff tone. Jet and Mrs. White turn to see Mr. John Boddy standing in the doorway with his hands in his pockets. A light rain begins to patter against the glass roof of the Conservatory.
“So, I guess you don’t take you little brother’s life seriously.” Mr. Boddy says
“Don’t hurt Scott!” Mrs. White begs
“Just be glad that I’m the one who overheard you and not Bradford.” Mr. Boddy says, “He’s not as forgiving as I am.”
“What do you want from us?” asks Mrs. White
“Honestly, I want to help you.” Mr. Boddy says
“I find that hard to believe.” Madame Rose says, “You’ve always been so loyal to my father and his wickedness.”
“My loyalty to Bradford is not my choice.” Mr. Boddy says
“What do you mean?” asks Jet as Mr. Boddy closes the door and joins them by the seating alcove.
“It’ll be out in the open sooner or later.” Mr. Boddy says reaching into his pocket and pulling out his check book, “Threats obviously won’t work to keep you guys quiet so I figure a bribe might. How about £1,000 for each of you.”
“I don’t take bribes.” Madame Rose says, “As you may have heard, I’m not keen on material items.”
“Then at least agree to hear me out.” Mr. Boddy says sitting down next to Jet who uncomfortably stands up and walks over to Mrs. White
“John, I already know this story.” Madame Rose says taking off her reading glasses and closing her book. She rubs her forehead, “Remember I was a first-hand witness of it. You are merely repeating my father’s words, which are, I’m afraid, far from the truth.”
“Then be my guest and cut in if I start to steer the story in the wrong direction.” Mr. Boddy says
Madame Rose nods as Mrs. White and Jet sit in the wicker chairs across from Mr. Boddy. Madame Rose reaches into her burlap sack and pulls out her knitting. She begins to knit as Mr. Boddy talks.
“As I’m sure you already know, Bradford was and is not a rich man. All the money he has was inherited. His wife was incredibly wealthy which meant she was in control of who got what and how much.” Mr. Boddy says, “When she died she left money to her children, primarily her oldest son Hugh. He was always her favorite”
“It’s wasn’t a game of favoritism.” Madame Rose interrupts him, “Our sister, Estelle was a drug user and our mother didn’t want the money put to that. Your mother, Margaret, had already passed away and I told her I didn’t want anything after she died. I explained that money isn’t the source of happiness and I was living just fine with my husband. She gave the money to Hugh because he was responsible.”
“Well that was Bradford’s misinterpretation.” Mr. Boddy says, “Bradford didn’t inherit a dime. Hugh got the family mansion: Tudor Close, most of the money, and all the stocks she had invested in.”
“But being a kind son as Hugh was, he gave his father ¼ of the inheritance.” Madame Rose says
“Yes. Bradford spent the money trying to find out what happened to my mother and father.” Mr. Boddy says
“Did he ever find out?” asks Mrs. White
“Only that they were on a Safari and their tour guide was shot to death. From what we’ve guessed the passengers tried to find their way back but were unable to.” Mr. Boddy says with sorrow, “Anyway, back to the story, Bradford, being broke and without anyone but me, he decided to live with his elderly school friend, who was ill and living in his family’s Chateau, Ravenhurst Hall. After his friend passed away Bradford decided to take over Ravenhurst Hall and became the head of that house.” Mr. Boddy says, “Then a few months ago he told me it wasn’t fair that Hugh was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and he had to work for everything. So he blackmailed his son. He told him to spurn his children and wife from his will and make him the sole beneficiary. Hugh agreed after understanding the extents of what he was being blackmailed for. Then Bradford found the perfect person with the perfect secret and the perfect motive to do his dirty work.”
“Mrs. Peacock.” Jet says
“Exactly.” Mr. Boddy says
“Why are you telling us this?” Mrs. White asks
“I just thought you should know.” Mr. Boddy says, “I’m not a bad person. I’ve just made some mistakes as well. My loyalty to Bradford is one of them.”
“He’s blackmailing you too.” Jet says with sudden realization
Mr. Boddy sighs, “For my loyalty.”
“Which you just broke.” Jet says pointing out that Mr. Boddy told him everything
“That is why I am bribing you to stay quiet.” Mr. Boddy says, “It won’t be much longer before Bradford’s plan falls flat. When it does I’d rather be on his good side.”
“Then why did you threaten me at the Funeral Home earlier?” asks Jet
“I was under Bradford’s orders.” Mr. Boddy says, “He knew you would be the next to inherit since Hugh didn’t change the will. He had me blackmail you to turn it down.”
“Do you honestly think I’m going to?” asks Jet
“You need to.” Mr. Boddy says, “If you don’t he’s going to get the money by selling your brother on the blackmarket.”
“So either way I choose he wins?” asks Jet
“What are we going to do.” Mrs. White says
“Play along,” Mr. Boddy says, “But slowly.”
“I don’t understand?” Mrs. White says
“I understand he is family but he is a terrible man.” Mr. Boddy says, “I assume everyone else agrees?”
Madame Rose and Jet nod.
“Of course he is,” Mrs. White says
“Bradford got involved with a Russian mob.” Mr. Boddy lowers his voice, “His way of paying them back is transforming Tudor Close into an elaborate Bed and Breakfast for them to take ownership of.”
“My God,” Madame Rose gasps, “That’s what the reinvention of Tudor Close is all about.”
“If he doesn’t get started by Friday heads will roll.” Mr. Boddy says, “Specifically Bradford’s head.”
“Good.” Mrs. White says
“Mrs. White,” Madame Rose says, “How could you encourage such a thing.”
“He is wicked man!” Mrs. White says, “I don’t care what happens to him!”
“Neither do I.” Jet says, “When will my brother be returned to us?”
“If all goes according to plan,” Mr. Boddy calculates in his head, “Mrs. Peacock will be secretly returning to Mayfield with him on Saturday.”
“Do we have the police intervene?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Mr. Boddy says, “It would risk Scott’s safety.”
“Where will they be kept at?” asks Jet with anxiousness
“Ravenhurst Hall.” Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy say in unison
In the Library of Tudor Close, Mr. Reginald Ash lays a log on the fire. Mrs. Sylvia Black sits on the red ottoman in front of the fireplace. She is wrapped in a shawl, wearing her funeral clothes beneath the shawl. She is clutching a picture of Hugh, Scott, Jet, and herself. Her veiled hat is at her feet.
“I promise Hugh,” she says to the picture, “I’ll get our son back.”
“Perhaps you should lie down?” Mr. Ash suggests
“I can’t sleep.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ve barely slept a wink since Hugh died. Now with Scott missing…” her voice breaks off into tears.
“There, there.” Mr. Ash puts his hands on her shoulders. She stands up and sets the picture on the ottoman. She embraces the butler and cries into his shoulder.
“You’ve been so loyal to us all these years.” Mrs. Black says, “We’ve dragged you through so many rough bumps and you’ve never let us down.”
“And I never will.” Mr. Ash says, “What do we do about Bradford?”
“I want him dead.” Mrs. Black says
“I’d gladly bury a knife in his spine.” Mr. Ash grits his teeth
“No,” Mrs. Black says trying to compose herself, “We need to do this quietly and smoothly.”
“What did you have in mind?” Mr. Ash asks
At the Green Home, Mr. Thallo Green sits pensively at his desk in his study. He thinks about his life and how he and his half-sister, Jane have gotten to where they are today.
-FLASHBACK- DECEMBER 18, 1927-
Red robins gracefully play on the snow covered lawn outside the Majestic Beaumont Hotel in Paris. The sound of graceful piano music is heard from the Lounge’s and Restaurants. A young man and woman step out of the back of their black Rolls Royce as a Bellman takes their bags. They enter the front doors of the Hotel and are greeted by warmth and liveliness.
“Mr. Green, Miss Emerald.” The Concierge greets them at the door, “You are eagerly awaited. Your bags will be delivered to joined rooms 703 and 705. If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to ask.”
Young Thallo (Marc) Green and Jane Meadow-Brook (Marie Emerald) make their way further into the lobby where they see a middle aged man wearing a high class black business suit with a brilliant yellow button-down shirt. He has dark features and is obviously of Russian decent. He is bald and wears an eye-patch over his left eye.
“Gaspodin,” Mr. Green nods to him, “This is my half-sister Marie.”
“Please, call me Sergei.” Gaspodin Sergei Gold replies
“Au chante.” Miss Emerald elegantly holds out her white gloved hand. Sergei gently kisses it.
“And this is my beautiful wife Irena.” Sergei Gold introduces the beautiful woman with a brilliant yellow evening gown.
“It is pleasing to meet.” She says in a thick Russian accent
“Please forgive her,” Sergei says patting his wife on the arm, “Her English is not very good.”
“Our French could use a little work.” Mr. Green laughs, “Despite having grown up in South France since childhood.”
“Shall we move on to the Lounge?” Sergei suggests, “The hotel owners, Dr. Beaumont and his wife are waiting for us with champagne and appetizers.”
In the Lounge of the Majestic Beaumont Hotel, Dr. Françoise Beaumont and Adelaide Beaumont sit on the divan talking with an older man as Sergei and Irena Gold, Mr. Green, and Miss Emerald enter the room.
“I’m so glad you all could come.” Dr. Beaumont says, “This is Monsieur Gaston Chamoise.”
“How do you do.” Mr. Green shakes hands with him
“I haven’t seen you since March.” Sergei reacquaints himself with Monsieur Chamoise as Miss Emerald and Mr. Green settle down.
“So you are doctor?” Miss Emerald says, “How do you manage that and still have the time to run this amazing hotel.”
“I’m a retired doctor.” Dr. Beaumont explains, “This hotel was built by my grandfather who passed it on to my father. My own father passed away in spring so I took over.”
“It seems like so much work.” Mr. Green says
“It is,” Dr. Beaumont says as several other hotel guests slowly begin to leave the room, “But it’s a good business, all those spare bedrooms that rarely get booked.”
“I would have figured every room is booked each night.” Miss Emerald admires the crystal chandelier.
Sergei Gold picks up his briefcase from next to the sofa and sets it on the coffee table as the last of the guests are ushered out of the Lounge. Mrs. Beaumont bolts the double doors that lead to the hotel Lounge.
“What’s going on?” Mr. Green asks as an uncomfortable feeling begins to settle into his stomach.
“I’m sure Gaspodin Gold informed you this was a business meeting.” Dr. Beaumont says
“Yes,” Mr. Green says, “But I wasn’t sure you wanted my half-sister here for this?”
“Oh she will be a big help in what I have in store.” Dr. Beaumont says as a smile comes of Sergei Gold’s lips
Miss Emerald and Mr. Green exchange a glance of fear and intrigue. Sergei Gold unlocks the clasps on his briefcase and slowly opens it. Mr. Green and Miss Emerald lean forward in their seats to see tiny bags of illegal substances. Marijuana, cocaine, heroin, pills, etc.
“Remember how I mentioned all those empty rooms in the hotel?” asks Dr. Beaumont with a prideful grin, “This is where it all comes from.”
“You are running a drug cartel in the most luxurious hotel in Paris?” Miss Emerald says sitting back in her chair.
“Top quality.” Sergei closes his briefcase and kisses his wife.
“We get some of our best clients at the hotel!” Dr. Beaumont says
“All the desperate women who are under constant pressure of maintaining maximum aloofness,” Mrs. Beaumont says, “Rich tycoons who have gambled a bit too much and are quickly trying to find a way to make their inner pain go away.”
“What do you say?” Sergei Gold asks rubbing his hands together
“Will sell with us?” Irena Gold asks with excitement in her eyes
Miss Emerald looks at her half-brother and shakes her head. He remains quiet, staring at the briefcase.
“How much will we make?” asks Mr. Green
“30%.” Dr. Beaumont says
“Marc, no.” Miss Emerald says tugging on his arm and pulling him away from the group towards the large windows of the Lounge.
“Marie, we are barely making enough to sustain our lavish lifestyle.” Mr. Green whispers to his sister, “This could be our answer.”
“This won’t end good, believe me.” Miss Emerald says, “You’ll end up dead or in prison.”
“Not if we make the right choices with this.” Mr. Green says
“The right choice is saying no.” Miss Emerald says, “What would mom think?”
“She always taught us to do whatever we can to survive.” Mr. Green says
“I don’t think a drug ring is what she had in mind.” Miss Emerald says
“I accept your offer.” Mr. Green turns to small group in the seating area.
“I can’t believe you.” Miss Emerald says, “You’re playing with fire.”
“Miss Emerald,” Mrs. Beaumont asks, “Are you in.”
“No,” Miss Emerald says as she crosses the room and exits
“Will this be a problem?” asks Dr. Beaumont
“I’ll talk with her tonight.” Mr. Green says
“Good,” Dr. Beaumont says, “I understand that she is your sister, but if she becomes a threat, she will have to be taken care of.”
“I understand.” Mr. Green says
“You are a good man,” Sergei says, “But you should never put business before your family. No matter how desperate for money you are.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green is abruptly shaken out of his recollection with the sound of the phone ringing.
“This is Green.” Mr. Green answers
“Thallo, it’s Sylvia,” she answers on the other end of the line
“I purposely didn’t go to Hugh’s funeral to avoid you.” Mr. Green says
“I know how you must feel after I dropped the bomb about you being Jet’s father, but I need a favor.” Mrs. Black says
“This isn’t a good time.” Mr. Green says
“Please,” Mrs. Black says with desperation in her voice
“What do you want?” asks Mr. Green after a moment of reconsideration
“You still have that old warehouse?” asks Mrs. Black
“Yes,” Mr. Green says
“Why don’t you have Bradford go there with you.” Mrs. Black hints
“So I’m doing your dirty work too?” asks Mr. Green
“And of course receive a princely fee.” Mrs. Black says
“When do you want it done?” asks Mr. Green
“Tomorrow.” Mrs. Black says solemnly
“I get paid in advance.” Mr. Green says, “You talk to my boss Dante and you’ll never see Bradford again.”
“The sooner he’s gone, the sooner I can focus on finding my son.” Mrs. Black says
Back in the Conservatory of Tudor Close, Mr. Boddy turns to leave the room. He stops and turns back to Madame Rose, Jet, and Mrs. White.
“There’s only one problem.” Mr. Boddy says
“What’s that?” asks Jet
“If Bradford dies before Thursday, Mrs. Peacock won’t receive his call.” Mr. Boddy says
“What is bad about that?” asks Mrs. White
“If she doesn’t receive the call she automatically will sell him on the black market.” Mr. Boddy says
-Tuesday, April 19, 1949; 5.37 pm-
In the Conservatory of Tudor Close, Madame Claire Rose sits on the wicker loveseat near the window alcove. Mrs. White fills a watering can in the sink near the door.
“Mr. Ash said that you wanted to speak to me.” Jet says upon entering the room
“Yes,” Madame Rose says, “Please sit down. I have some distressing news.” Mrs. White turns her attention to Jet.
“What’s wrong?” asks Jet as he sits down in the wicker chair near his aunt.
“It’s about the people in this house.” Mrs. White says beginning to water the plants in the plant stands near the door.
“John and Bradford?” asks Jet
“Yes,” Madame Rose frowns, “Your cousin and your grandfather are carrying with them a horrible evil.”
“I know.” Jet says lowering his head.
“Tell me,” Madame Rose touches his hand
“I can’t.” Jet says fearing that John will find out
“Then we cannot put an end to this!” Mrs. White says with fear in her eyes
“For a while I thought that their deaths would be a stop to the pandemonium in our lives.” Jet says, “But now I realize that they are more involved that we think.”
“Tell us!” Mrs. White begs, her arms shaking as water begins to spill out
Jet takes a deep breath, “Mrs. Peacock is working for them.”
Deathly silence fills the room as Madame Rose and Mrs. White try to take in the new information.
“My God,” Mrs. White clutches her chest, “This was all a scheme for Bradford to be the rightful heir to Tudor Close.”
“He was always jealous of Hugh.” Madame Rose explains, “Everyone was.”
“Even you?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Madame Rose says, “I never cared of material possessions such as money or mansions.”
“Then what did you mean by everyone?” Jet asks
“Our sister Estelle was jealous much like Bradford was.” Madame Rose explains, “The money didn’t come from my father. It came from my mother. Upon my mother’s death after her long illness, my father greedily expected his inheritance much as Estelle did, but it was Hugh who inherited everything. My father and Estelle didn’t get a dime.”
“But they live so lavishly.” Mrs. White says with a puzzled look on her face.
“That’s because he asked for money from Hugh.” A voice says from the Conservatory doorway
Madame Rose jumps a little at the sound of the gruff tone. Jet and Mrs. White turn to see Mr. John Boddy standing in the doorway with his hands in his pockets. A light rain begins to patter against the glass roof of the Conservatory.
“So, I guess you don’t take you little brother’s life seriously.” Mr. Boddy says
“Don’t hurt Scott!” Mrs. White begs
“Just be glad that I’m the one who overheard you and not Bradford.” Mr. Boddy says, “He’s not as forgiving as I am.”
“What do you want from us?” asks Mrs. White
“Honestly, I want to help you.” Mr. Boddy says
“I find that hard to believe.” Madame Rose says, “You’ve always been so loyal to my father and his wickedness.”
“My loyalty to Bradford is not my choice.” Mr. Boddy says
“What do you mean?” asks Jet as Mr. Boddy closes the door and joins them by the seating alcove.
“It’ll be out in the open sooner or later.” Mr. Boddy says reaching into his pocket and pulling out his check book, “Threats obviously won’t work to keep you guys quiet so I figure a bribe might. How about £1,000 for each of you.”
“I don’t take bribes.” Madame Rose says, “As you may have heard, I’m not keen on material items.”
“Then at least agree to hear me out.” Mr. Boddy says sitting down next to Jet who uncomfortably stands up and walks over to Mrs. White
“John, I already know this story.” Madame Rose says taking off her reading glasses and closing her book. She rubs her forehead, “Remember I was a first-hand witness of it. You are merely repeating my father’s words, which are, I’m afraid, far from the truth.”
“Then be my guest and cut in if I start to steer the story in the wrong direction.” Mr. Boddy says
Madame Rose nods as Mrs. White and Jet sit in the wicker chairs across from Mr. Boddy. Madame Rose reaches into her burlap sack and pulls out her knitting. She begins to knit as Mr. Boddy talks.
“As I’m sure you already know, Bradford was and is not a rich man. All the money he has was inherited. His wife was incredibly wealthy which meant she was in control of who got what and how much.” Mr. Boddy says, “When she died she left money to her children, primarily her oldest son Hugh. He was always her favorite”
“It’s wasn’t a game of favoritism.” Madame Rose interrupts him, “Our sister, Estelle was a drug user and our mother didn’t want the money put to that. Your mother, Margaret, had already passed away and I told her I didn’t want anything after she died. I explained that money isn’t the source of happiness and I was living just fine with my husband. She gave the money to Hugh because he was responsible.”
“Well that was Bradford’s misinterpretation.” Mr. Boddy says, “Bradford didn’t inherit a dime. Hugh got the family mansion: Tudor Close, most of the money, and all the stocks she had invested in.”
“But being a kind son as Hugh was, he gave his father ¼ of the inheritance.” Madame Rose says
“Yes. Bradford spent the money trying to find out what happened to my mother and father.” Mr. Boddy says
“Did he ever find out?” asks Mrs. White
“Only that they were on a Safari and their tour guide was shot to death. From what we’ve guessed the passengers tried to find their way back but were unable to.” Mr. Boddy says with sorrow, “Anyway, back to the story, Bradford, being broke and without anyone but me, he decided to live with his elderly school friend, who was ill and living in his family’s Chateau, Ravenhurst Hall. After his friend passed away Bradford decided to take over Ravenhurst Hall and became the head of that house.” Mr. Boddy says, “Then a few months ago he told me it wasn’t fair that Hugh was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and he had to work for everything. So he blackmailed his son. He told him to spurn his children and wife from his will and make him the sole beneficiary. Hugh agreed after understanding the extents of what he was being blackmailed for. Then Bradford found the perfect person with the perfect secret and the perfect motive to do his dirty work.”
“Mrs. Peacock.” Jet says
“Exactly.” Mr. Boddy says
“Why are you telling us this?” Mrs. White asks
“I just thought you should know.” Mr. Boddy says, “I’m not a bad person. I’ve just made some mistakes as well. My loyalty to Bradford is one of them.”
“He’s blackmailing you too.” Jet says with sudden realization
Mr. Boddy sighs, “For my loyalty.”
“Which you just broke.” Jet says pointing out that Mr. Boddy told him everything
“That is why I am bribing you to stay quiet.” Mr. Boddy says, “It won’t be much longer before Bradford’s plan falls flat. When it does I’d rather be on his good side.”
“Then why did you threaten me at the Funeral Home earlier?” asks Jet
“I was under Bradford’s orders.” Mr. Boddy says, “He knew you would be the next to inherit since Hugh didn’t change the will. He had me blackmail you to turn it down.”
“Do you honestly think I’m going to?” asks Jet
“You need to.” Mr. Boddy says, “If you don’t he’s going to get the money by selling your brother on the blackmarket.”
“So either way I choose he wins?” asks Jet
“What are we going to do.” Mrs. White says
“Play along,” Mr. Boddy says, “But slowly.”
“I don’t understand?” Mrs. White says
“I understand he is family but he is a terrible man.” Mr. Boddy says, “I assume everyone else agrees?”
Madame Rose and Jet nod.
“Of course he is,” Mrs. White says
“Bradford got involved with a Russian mob.” Mr. Boddy lowers his voice, “His way of paying them back is transforming Tudor Close into an elaborate Bed and Breakfast for them to take ownership of.”
“My God,” Madame Rose gasps, “That’s what the reinvention of Tudor Close is all about.”
“If he doesn’t get started by Friday heads will roll.” Mr. Boddy says, “Specifically Bradford’s head.”
“Good.” Mrs. White says
“Mrs. White,” Madame Rose says, “How could you encourage such a thing.”
“He is wicked man!” Mrs. White says, “I don’t care what happens to him!”
“Neither do I.” Jet says, “When will my brother be returned to us?”
“If all goes according to plan,” Mr. Boddy calculates in his head, “Mrs. Peacock will be secretly returning to Mayfield with him on Saturday.”
“Do we have the police intervene?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Mr. Boddy says, “It would risk Scott’s safety.”
“Where will they be kept at?” asks Jet with anxiousness
“Ravenhurst Hall.” Madame Rose and Mr. Boddy say in unison
In the Library of Tudor Close, Mr. Reginald Ash lays a log on the fire. Mrs. Sylvia Black sits on the red ottoman in front of the fireplace. She is wrapped in a shawl, wearing her funeral clothes beneath the shawl. She is clutching a picture of Hugh, Scott, Jet, and herself. Her veiled hat is at her feet.
“I promise Hugh,” she says to the picture, “I’ll get our son back.”
“Perhaps you should lie down?” Mr. Ash suggests
“I can’t sleep.” Mrs. Black says, “I’ve barely slept a wink since Hugh died. Now with Scott missing…” her voice breaks off into tears.
“There, there.” Mr. Ash puts his hands on her shoulders. She stands up and sets the picture on the ottoman. She embraces the butler and cries into his shoulder.
“You’ve been so loyal to us all these years.” Mrs. Black says, “We’ve dragged you through so many rough bumps and you’ve never let us down.”
“And I never will.” Mr. Ash says, “What do we do about Bradford?”
“I want him dead.” Mrs. Black says
“I’d gladly bury a knife in his spine.” Mr. Ash grits his teeth
“No,” Mrs. Black says trying to compose herself, “We need to do this quietly and smoothly.”
“What did you have in mind?” Mr. Ash asks
At the Green Home, Mr. Thallo Green sits pensively at his desk in his study. He thinks about his life and how he and his half-sister, Jane have gotten to where they are today.
-FLASHBACK- DECEMBER 18, 1927-
Red robins gracefully play on the snow covered lawn outside the Majestic Beaumont Hotel in Paris. The sound of graceful piano music is heard from the Lounge’s and Restaurants. A young man and woman step out of the back of their black Rolls Royce as a Bellman takes their bags. They enter the front doors of the Hotel and are greeted by warmth and liveliness.
“Mr. Green, Miss Emerald.” The Concierge greets them at the door, “You are eagerly awaited. Your bags will be delivered to joined rooms 703 and 705. If you need anything at all, don’t hesitate to ask.”
Young Thallo (Marc) Green and Jane Meadow-Brook (Marie Emerald) make their way further into the lobby where they see a middle aged man wearing a high class black business suit with a brilliant yellow button-down shirt. He has dark features and is obviously of Russian decent. He is bald and wears an eye-patch over his left eye.
“Gaspodin,” Mr. Green nods to him, “This is my half-sister Marie.”
“Please, call me Sergei.” Gaspodin Sergei Gold replies
“Au chante.” Miss Emerald elegantly holds out her white gloved hand. Sergei gently kisses it.
“And this is my beautiful wife Irena.” Sergei Gold introduces the beautiful woman with a brilliant yellow evening gown.
“It is pleasing to meet.” She says in a thick Russian accent
“Please forgive her,” Sergei says patting his wife on the arm, “Her English is not very good.”
“Our French could use a little work.” Mr. Green laughs, “Despite having grown up in South France since childhood.”
“Shall we move on to the Lounge?” Sergei suggests, “The hotel owners, Dr. Beaumont and his wife are waiting for us with champagne and appetizers.”
In the Lounge of the Majestic Beaumont Hotel, Dr. Françoise Beaumont and Adelaide Beaumont sit on the divan talking with an older man as Sergei and Irena Gold, Mr. Green, and Miss Emerald enter the room.
“I’m so glad you all could come.” Dr. Beaumont says, “This is Monsieur Gaston Chamoise.”
“How do you do.” Mr. Green shakes hands with him
“I haven’t seen you since March.” Sergei reacquaints himself with Monsieur Chamoise as Miss Emerald and Mr. Green settle down.
“So you are doctor?” Miss Emerald says, “How do you manage that and still have the time to run this amazing hotel.”
“I’m a retired doctor.” Dr. Beaumont explains, “This hotel was built by my grandfather who passed it on to my father. My own father passed away in spring so I took over.”
“It seems like so much work.” Mr. Green says
“It is,” Dr. Beaumont says as several other hotel guests slowly begin to leave the room, “But it’s a good business, all those spare bedrooms that rarely get booked.”
“I would have figured every room is booked each night.” Miss Emerald admires the crystal chandelier.
Sergei Gold picks up his briefcase from next to the sofa and sets it on the coffee table as the last of the guests are ushered out of the Lounge. Mrs. Beaumont bolts the double doors that lead to the hotel Lounge.
“What’s going on?” Mr. Green asks as an uncomfortable feeling begins to settle into his stomach.
“I’m sure Gaspodin Gold informed you this was a business meeting.” Dr. Beaumont says
“Yes,” Mr. Green says, “But I wasn’t sure you wanted my half-sister here for this?”
“Oh she will be a big help in what I have in store.” Dr. Beaumont says as a smile comes of Sergei Gold’s lips
Miss Emerald and Mr. Green exchange a glance of fear and intrigue. Sergei Gold unlocks the clasps on his briefcase and slowly opens it. Mr. Green and Miss Emerald lean forward in their seats to see tiny bags of illegal substances. Marijuana, cocaine, heroin, pills, etc.
“Remember how I mentioned all those empty rooms in the hotel?” asks Dr. Beaumont with a prideful grin, “This is where it all comes from.”
“You are running a drug cartel in the most luxurious hotel in Paris?” Miss Emerald says sitting back in her chair.
“Top quality.” Sergei closes his briefcase and kisses his wife.
“We get some of our best clients at the hotel!” Dr. Beaumont says
“All the desperate women who are under constant pressure of maintaining maximum aloofness,” Mrs. Beaumont says, “Rich tycoons who have gambled a bit too much and are quickly trying to find a way to make their inner pain go away.”
“What do you say?” Sergei Gold asks rubbing his hands together
“Will sell with us?” Irena Gold asks with excitement in her eyes
Miss Emerald looks at her half-brother and shakes her head. He remains quiet, staring at the briefcase.
“How much will we make?” asks Mr. Green
“30%.” Dr. Beaumont says
“Marc, no.” Miss Emerald says tugging on his arm and pulling him away from the group towards the large windows of the Lounge.
“Marie, we are barely making enough to sustain our lavish lifestyle.” Mr. Green whispers to his sister, “This could be our answer.”
“This won’t end good, believe me.” Miss Emerald says, “You’ll end up dead or in prison.”
“Not if we make the right choices with this.” Mr. Green says
“The right choice is saying no.” Miss Emerald says, “What would mom think?”
“She always taught us to do whatever we can to survive.” Mr. Green says
“I don’t think a drug ring is what she had in mind.” Miss Emerald says
“I accept your offer.” Mr. Green turns to small group in the seating area.
“I can’t believe you.” Miss Emerald says, “You’re playing with fire.”
“Miss Emerald,” Mrs. Beaumont asks, “Are you in.”
“No,” Miss Emerald says as she crosses the room and exits
“Will this be a problem?” asks Dr. Beaumont
“I’ll talk with her tonight.” Mr. Green says
“Good,” Dr. Beaumont says, “I understand that she is your sister, but if she becomes a threat, she will have to be taken care of.”
“I understand.” Mr. Green says
“You are a good man,” Sergei says, “But you should never put business before your family. No matter how desperate for money you are.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green is abruptly shaken out of his recollection with the sound of the phone ringing.
“This is Green.” Mr. Green answers
“Thallo, it’s Sylvia,” she answers on the other end of the line
“I purposely didn’t go to Hugh’s funeral to avoid you.” Mr. Green says
“I know how you must feel after I dropped the bomb about you being Jet’s father, but I need a favor.” Mrs. Black says
“This isn’t a good time.” Mr. Green says
“Please,” Mrs. Black says with desperation in her voice
“What do you want?” asks Mr. Green after a moment of reconsideration
“You still have that old warehouse?” asks Mrs. Black
“Yes,” Mr. Green says
“Why don’t you have Bradford go there with you.” Mrs. Black hints
“So I’m doing your dirty work too?” asks Mr. Green
“And of course receive a princely fee.” Mrs. Black says
“When do you want it done?” asks Mr. Green
“Tomorrow.” Mrs. Black says solemnly
“I get paid in advance.” Mr. Green says, “You talk to my boss Dante and you’ll never see Bradford again.”
“The sooner he’s gone, the sooner I can focus on finding my son.” Mrs. Black says
Back in the Conservatory of Tudor Close, Mr. Boddy turns to leave the room. He stops and turns back to Madame Rose, Jet, and Mrs. White.
“There’s only one problem.” Mr. Boddy says
“What’s that?” asks Jet
“If Bradford dies before Thursday, Mrs. Peacock won’t receive his call.” Mr. Boddy says
“What is bad about that?” asks Mrs. White
“If she doesn’t receive the call she automatically will sell him on the black market.” Mr. Boddy says