Episode 25 – “Hearts May Get Broken”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Miss Scarlet begins to have dreams of her taking revenge on Chandler and murdering him. Percival Oakwood warns his sister, Julia, that she can’t hide her pregnancy forever. Lady Oakwood remembers a tragic deep that took place in her drawing room involving her Aunt and a Silver Candlestick. When pressed by her housekeeper as to why she is bringing up the past wrongs, Lady Oakwood decides to throw a dinner party. Beryl, her housekeeper makes a remark about how Percival may start remembering being in an orphanage when he and Julia enter the room. In Paris, Scott sees a man outside of the apartment looking up at him. When Monsieur Brunette checks the man is gone, only for the same man to break in and tell Scott to run. Mrs. Peacock attacks the man as Brunette retrieves Scott. Mrs. Peacock finds the man’s identification card and sees he is Donald Coal, a Private Detective from Mayfield and that Inspector Brown knows they are in Paris. Miles Meadow-Brook feels suicidal after the recent separation with Jane. Nurse Primrose unintentionally let’s slip her affair with Hugh Black and Miles gets a great idea. Sylvia and Jane discuss Jessica’s funeral and Sylvia is horrified to find out that Jessica’s body wasn’t actually found. When Sylvia says that she will get Scott back soon, John Boddy overhears and becomes concerned…
-Wednesday, April 20, 1949; 9.02 am-
Miles Meadow-Brook finishes writing on the notepad next to his hospital bed and reviews it with a smile on his face.
Dear Mrs. Black,
I just wanted to let you know that there may indeed be more to your late husband’s life that you were aware of. It appears his infidelity did not end around the whole Jessica/Bryce scenario. Nurse Florence Primrose just confessed that she was deeply in love with your husband as they were having an affair. With all the rumors going out about your true involvement in Hugh’s death I thought you would like to have this little bit of information kept secret. Our families have been like one big happy family over the years and I intend to keep your secrets, so long as you convince Jane to take me back. I really hope you can convince Jane to love me again, because if you can’t, this information will just land on Inspector Brown’s desk and he will reopen the Hugh Black case and possibly find you guilty.
Good Luck, You’ve Only One Week to Fix This
Miles Meadow-Brook
Miles Meadow-Brook smiles as he folds up the note.
In the Library of Tudor Close, Mr. John Boddy is on the phone.
“What exactly happened?” he asks as Jet Black writes down notes next to him pertaining to the phone call.
“Donald Coal broke in and told Scott to run.” Mrs. Peacock says from the other end of the line
“Is Scott okay?” asks Mr. Boddy as Jet’s eyes widen
“I have him tied up in the Art Studio with Mr. Coal.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well Bradford should be calling by tomorrow for you to free Scott to us.” Mr. Boddy says
“I can’t believe Sylvia is actually pulling through.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It isn’t in Sylvia’s hands anymore.” Mr. Boddy says, “Jet is going to be the one who delivers this plan to safety.”
“Then I should expect the call tomorrow.” Mrs. Peacock says, “The painting is on its way to Africa. If I don’t get that call, Scott will be on his way to Africa too.”
“I understand.” Mr. Boddy says
“Tell Jet that if worse comes to worse we’ll arrange for him to say goodbye to Scott.” Mrs. Peacock says sympathetically
“What about Sylvia?” asks Mr. Boddy, “Doesn’t she deserve that?”
“She doesn’t deserve anything.” Mrs. Peacock says coldly as she hangs up
Mr. Boddy places the phone on the cradle.
“Well?” Jet asks eagerly
“We go ahead with the plan. You sign over the money to Bradford.” Mr. Boddy says
“You didn’t tell her that my mother is planning on having Bradford killed?” Jet asks
“That’s because I’m hoping the hit will be called off.” Mr. Boddy says, “I called in a favor from one of Bradford’s enemies.”
“Great,” Jet says, “He’ll be dead for sure.”
“No,” Mr. Boddy says, “This is an enemy that wants him alive… at least until Friday.”
At the top of the ravine, Gaspodin Sergei Gold stands looking at the wreckage below. He sees the limp hand begin to move as Bradford regains consciousness. Gaspodin Gold sighs in relief as he leaves the gravel road. Sir Bradford Black pulls himself out of the wreckage and begins to limp up the steep embankment.
In the Conservatory of Tudor Close Jet Black and John Boddy enter to see Jane Meadow-Brook and Sylvia Black talking.
“Well, ladies,” Mr. Boddy says, “I hope you two are having a nice morning.”
“We are thank you.” Jane smiles halfheartedly
“Sylvia,” Mr. Boddy says, “I’m sorry to tell you this, but there has been a change of plans. Bradford Black is not going to be murdered today.”
Sylvia’s face goes pale under the realization that Mr. Boddy knows.
“It’s okay, mother.” Jet says, “He’s on our side.”
“I find that hard to believe.” Sylvia says
“So did I!” Jet says, “Just hear him out. We’ll have Scott back with us by Saturday if we do what he says.”
In Paris, Mr. Donald Coal and Scott Black are bound and gagged to two chairs in the Art Studio of the apartment. Monsieur Brunette sits at his easel roughly penciling the scene before him. A tear runs down Scott’s cheek.
“You both brought this on yourselves.” Monsieur Brunette says
Mr. Coal mumbles beneath his gag. Monsieur Brunette takes a sharp knife and puts it to his throat.
“I’m going to take off this gag.” Monsieur Brunette says, “If you raise your voice any higher that a whisper, Scott will witness me tearing your larynx from your body.”
Scott closes his eyes in horror as Monsieur Brunette pulls off the gag.
“If Inspector Brown doesn’t hear from me within the hour, police will come to this apartment.” Mr. Coal whispers to Monsieur Brunette, “I told them where I was heading and they will come here and you will be in prison.”
“Well aren’t you the bearer of bad news.” Monsieur Brunette says
“Please listen to me,” Mr. Coal says as Monsieur Brunette pushes the blade closer to his throat, “Leave the knife on that table and leave here with Mrs. Peacock. By the time I free myself and Scott you two will be long gone. No one will care where you two are, so long as I bring Scott back to his family.”
Monsieur Brunette considers the offer, “You may be on to something. How long until they are expecting your call again?”
“About a half-hour.” Mr. Coal says
“Then that will give me, Mrs. Peacock, and Scott enough time to leave before anyone notices you are dead.” Monsieur Brunette says slashing the man’s throat and cutting his ropes as the man falls to the floor holding his throat and sputtering out blood.
“Time to go, Scott.” Monsieur Brunette says, “And if you try anything as we leave, you’ll be in the same predicament as he is.”
As the ropes were cut from his arms he felt a little part of him die on the inside. He knew at that moment that things had drastically changed and would never be the same again. He looks at his reflection in the mirror to see Mr. Coal’s blood freckled over his face and shirt.
In the Drawing Room of the Oakwood Residence, Lady Oakwood looks over at her housekeeper, Mrs. Crabtree whose face is red from the possibility of Percival having overheard what she just said about him remembering being in an orphanage.
“Yes darling?” Lady Oakwood smiles as she talks through her teeth.
“Julia is pregnant.” Percival says as his younger sister drops her head.
“Is this true?” asks Lady Oakwood
“Yes.” Julia says
“And who is the father?” asks Lady Oakwood
“Well…” Julia begins to say
“She was raped.” Percival lies
“Raped?” Lady Oakwood clutches her pearls.
“Unfortunately she didn’t get a good look at the person who attacked her.” Percival says
“Are you certain you are pregnant?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
“Two and a half months.” She holds her stomach
Lady Oakwood picks up the phone.
“What are you doing?” asks Percival
“Calling Sister Mary Marjorie.” Lady Oakwood says, “They have a nice convent for young pregnant mothers.”
“I’m twenty years old.” Julia says
“Yes but you are living under my roof and you are unmarried.” Lady Oakwood says
“Mother, you can’t do this to her.” Percival steps in front of his sister, “It wasn’t her fault.”
“Maybe if she wore less scanty clothing…” Lady Oakwood begins to dial
“You can’t be serious!” Julia screeches
“There is nothing wrong with dressing amply.” Lady Oakwood says, “Hello, may I speak with Sister Mary Marjorie? Yes, thank you.”
Percival sighs and looks at his sister who is staring daggers at him.
“We should have told her the truth about the father.” Julia grabs her brother’s hand and drags him into the Hall
“You and I both know she would have reacted far worse if she knew.” Percival says, “We’ll work something out. Father won’t let her get away with this.”
From the doorway of the Breakfast Room, the butler, William Crimson watches.
In the Garden of the Peacock Residence, Miss Cynthia Scarlet walks arm in arm with her step-uncle, Professor Gregory Plum.
“How you will you be staying in Hampshire, Uncle Gregory?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I’m not sure.” Professor Plum says, “I will confess I have a bit on an ulterior motive for being here.”
“Penelope told me about your financial problems in America and how your teaching job wasn’t going too well.” Miss Scarlet says with sadness
“Some bitch reported me for forcing her into an unwanted sexual relationship.” Professor Plum says
“You didn’t did you?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Of course not,” Professor Plum breaks their grasp and looks into her eyes, “I did nothing. I was just targeted by her for whatever reason.”
“Uncle, I was a bitchy school girl not long ago.” Miss Scarlet says, “They don’t just target someone without any reason.”
“I asked her out for dinner.” Professor Plum confesses, “She turned me down and laughed at me and next thing I knew I was fired.”
“I’m sorry.” Miss Scarlet says
“I had it coming.” Professor Plum says, “I should never mix business with pleasure.”
“We all make mistakes.” Miss Scarlet says slowly as her eyes fixate on Chandler trimming the hedges. She watches the sharp blades snapping and snapping as she envisions blood dripping down them. She continues to watch in morbid fascination.
“Cynthia?” Professor Plum nudges her when he realizes that she is lost in thought.
“What?” she asks still staring at Chandler
“I was just saying how nice it would be to start a new life here in Hampshire, free of mistakes.” Professor Plum says
“That sounds like a grand idea.” Miss Scarlet says smiling at her uncle, “If you’ll excuse me for a moment.” Miss Scarlet leaves her confused uncle by the bird bath as she walks over to Chandler.
“Cynthia,” he smiles, “It is so nice of your uncle to agree to let me stay here. I just can’t go back to my flat after what happened in there.”
“I need to talk to you about something.” She says with a serious look on her face.
“What’s wrong?” asks Chandler
“I have forgiven you for what you’ve done: sleeping with my stepmother, flirting with Emily, and slapping me at the party. I don’t know why but there is some subconscious anger that I’m dealing with.” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t know what it is.”
“Maybe you’re still recovering from the madness that has been going on over these past few weeks. I mean your stepmother murdered a bunch of people and the man you loved betrayed you.” Chandler says, “It’s only natural to have some conflicting emotions.”
“Conflicting emotions is one thing.” Miss Scarlet says, “Murdering you inside my head over and over is a whole other thing.”
At his desk in the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Winfield Brown stands at his chalkboard when an officer knocks on the door.
“You wanted to see me, sir?” asks the officer
“Out of curiosity, are both Emily Peach and Clement Gray being held at Dark Hill Sanitarium?” asks Inspector Brown
“I believe so.” The officer says, “Is there any significance in that?”
“I’m wondering if Sgt. Gray and Miss Peach were involved with Mrs. Peacock and Miss Thorn.” Inspector Brown says still staring at the chalkboard.
“I’m not sure.” The officer says
“Of course you’re not.” Inspector Brown says, “Well thank you for that bit of information. Let me know when you hear from Coal.”
On the floor of Monsieur Brunette’s Studio in Paris, Donald Coal breathes heavily as he holds a paint rag against his bleeding throat. He is trying to weakly stand but stumbles and lands in his chair. He worries that Brunette and Peacock may have heard him.
Out in the Living Room, Mrs. Peacock closes her suitcase as Monsieur Brunette closes his. He takes both suitcases as Mrs. Peacock puts on a sun hat and sunglasses and puts a black ski cap over Scott’s messy hair.
“Once we’re outside, keep your head down.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Lord only knows if the French police are looking for you.”
“Where are we going?” asks Scott in fear
“To a safe place for now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “If your brother and mother fail to get the money to the right person, we’ll be heading to Tangiers.”
At the Bluebell Tea House, in Hampshire, Madame Claire Rose sits sipping her tea at a table near the window. She is looking to her cup for the messages of the tea leaves as a shadow casts between her at the window. She sees Senor Sabata Bronce in his wheelchair blocking the late morning sun. She smiles at him.
“We hadn’t heard from you lately. I was wondering how you were doing.” Madame Rose says
“I miss the use of my legs.” He motions.
“Please, come have tea with me.” Madame Rose motions for him to join her, “It isn’t right for both of us to be alone.”
“Thank you,” Sabata wheels himself over to her.
“I hope you don’t mind cranberry muffins and black pudding.” Madame Rose says
“Not at all.” Sabata says with a smile, “It is not often I find myself in the presence of a beautiful woman, especially one who has respectable taste in food.”
Madame Rose blushes at his compliment, “I hate to pry.”
“Feel free.” Sabata says
“But I heard rumors that you and Estel… Mrs. Curry were having an affair.” Madame Rose says setting her tea cup down
“Ah,” Sabata says, “Nothing like a little early morning gossip.”
“I didn’t mean to upset you.” Madame Rose says
“My feelings for Celeste were merely lust.” Sabata says, “There was not a single romantic spark between the two of us.”
The server comes by with the black pudding and muffins.
“Thank you dear.” She dismisses the server, “You know Mr. Bronce…”
“Senor.” Sabata corrects her
“Senor Bronce, the black pudding is often referred to as blood sausage.” Madame Rose says, “Rather gruesome title for such a delicious food.”
“Yes,” Sabata nods helping himself to some
“But yet it is ironic.” Madame Rose says
“I fail to see the irony.” Sabata says
“The horrible way the kill the animals in order to prepare it.” Madame Rose says
“I’d rather not talk about it.” Sabata says
“But just think,” Madame Rose says, “They break the legs of the animals, much like yours, and drain the blood from them, much like they did to Hugh, and finally they pass it off as a work of art.”
“I don’t understand.” Sabata says
“Well,” Madame Rose chuckles, “You are as guilty as Mrs. Peacock is.”
“I didn’t murder anyone!” Sabata takes offense to her comment.
“No!” Madame Rose says, “Of course you didn’t. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for you to think that I was accusing you of helping her murder people.”
“Then please explain, because I rather regret dining with you.” Sabata says
“I know Ms. Curry was weak.” Madame Rose says, “There is no way she could have scooped up all that blackmail on all those people on her own.”
“Are you suggesting that I helped her?” Sabata asks
“Why else would you have been kidnapped and placed in that cellar?” asks Madame Rose, “I find it laughable that they thought it was because you were having an affair with Ms. Curry.”
“I told you my feelings for her were of lust!” Sabata says
“Yet moments before you said that it is rare for you to find yourself in the presence of a beautiful woman,” Madame Rose says staring deeply into his eyes, “Surely you would have found Ms. Curry attractive in some way if there was a lustful spark between the two of you.”
Sabata is silent
“The police never put enough thought behind these things.” Madame Rose says
“What do you want from me?” asks Sabata
“I want you to help me, help you.” Madame Rose says, “By know I’m sure you’ve heard the Celeste Curry was actually my sister, Estelle Black. Estelle being a clever anagram for Celeste, drop one ‘L’, add one ‘C’.”
“What do you want from me?” Sabata repeats
“I want you to know that blackmail runs in the family.” Madame Rose says, “I won’t go to the police about your involvement with my sister’s blackmailing scheme if you tell me every little detail she told you about the residents of Hampshire.”
“I thought you didn’t like material gain.” Sabata says
“Oh I don’t.” Madame Rose says, “But it is good to let people know that their crimes aren’t as secret as they try to keep them.”
“Where shall I start?” asks Sabata
“Start with the biggest secret you know.” Madame Rose says taking a muffin and buttering it
“The Oakwood Family.” Sabata says in a low voice
In the Attic of the Oakwood Residence, Mrs. Beryl Crabtree and Lady Elizabeth Oakwood walk down the aisles and aisles of dust boxes and old trunks.
“I don’t know why you don’t leave well enough alone.” Mrs. Crabtree says clutching the crucifix around her neck, “I’m in as much risk as you are!”
“Julia is going to be sent away,” Lady Oakwood says, “Which means I’ll be having a lot more quality time with Percival. If he starts asking questions I’d rather have all the evidence gone.”
-FLASHBACK – JULY 21, 1933 –
The ring of the doorbell at the Oakwood residence echoes through the immaculate Hall. Mrs. Crabtree opens the door as Lady Oakwood comes from the Study.
“Lillian?” she gasps, “What the hell are you doing here?”
“I’m here to take Percival back to the orphanage.” Lillian says
“You can’t!” Lady Oakwood says, “You’ve no right.”
“You lied!” Lillian says, “I was the only nun in that convent who pitied you! You told me some sob story and I believed you. I even went to the lengths of lying about a break in. Do you know how much guilt I’ve dealt with? Then I find out you give birth to a baby girl.”
“Lillian, please.” Lady Oakwood says, “Come into the Drawing Room, we can talk this out.”
“I’ve made up my mind.” Lillian says, “I’m taking Percival back. He doesn’t deserve to be around wicked parents like you and Edward are!”
“What the hell is going on out here?” asks Lord Oakwood coming from the top of the stairs, “Miss Bijou?”
“Hello, Edward.” Lillian says, “I know the scam you pulled and I’m here to make things right!”
Lady Oakwood’s eyes land on the silver Candlestick on the Drawing Room mantel.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“Here we are,” Lady Oakwood says stopping at a large wooden chest with gold designs on it.
“Are you sure this is wise?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
Lady Oakwood kneels before it and unlatches it. She opens it and inside is a decayed skeleton covered in cobwebs. The stench of the corpse reaches the noses of the woman. There is a crack on the skull of the corpse. The corpse is also wearing a priest’s outfit.
“There he is.” Lady Oakwood says
“What now?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
“We clean our prints off of it and put it in the Peacock’s basement.” Lady Oakwood says, “It makes perfect sense when you take everything into consideration.”
At the Dark Hill Sanitarium, a young woman with blonde and red hair walks up the steps. She clutches a white shawl around her shoulders. She is wearing an orange and pink floral dress. She enters the building and walks to the desk.
“I’m here to see Emily Peach.” She says in a timid American accent.
“I’m afraid Miss Peach isn’t taking any visitors at this time.” The desk worker says
“Then would you please tell her that her sister Georgia is here and wants to know what the hell happened?” the woman asks
-Wednesday, April 20, 1949; 9.02 am-
Miles Meadow-Brook finishes writing on the notepad next to his hospital bed and reviews it with a smile on his face.
Dear Mrs. Black,
I just wanted to let you know that there may indeed be more to your late husband’s life that you were aware of. It appears his infidelity did not end around the whole Jessica/Bryce scenario. Nurse Florence Primrose just confessed that she was deeply in love with your husband as they were having an affair. With all the rumors going out about your true involvement in Hugh’s death I thought you would like to have this little bit of information kept secret. Our families have been like one big happy family over the years and I intend to keep your secrets, so long as you convince Jane to take me back. I really hope you can convince Jane to love me again, because if you can’t, this information will just land on Inspector Brown’s desk and he will reopen the Hugh Black case and possibly find you guilty.
Good Luck, You’ve Only One Week to Fix This
Miles Meadow-Brook
Miles Meadow-Brook smiles as he folds up the note.
In the Library of Tudor Close, Mr. John Boddy is on the phone.
“What exactly happened?” he asks as Jet Black writes down notes next to him pertaining to the phone call.
“Donald Coal broke in and told Scott to run.” Mrs. Peacock says from the other end of the line
“Is Scott okay?” asks Mr. Boddy as Jet’s eyes widen
“I have him tied up in the Art Studio with Mr. Coal.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Well Bradford should be calling by tomorrow for you to free Scott to us.” Mr. Boddy says
“I can’t believe Sylvia is actually pulling through.” Mrs. Peacock says
“It isn’t in Sylvia’s hands anymore.” Mr. Boddy says, “Jet is going to be the one who delivers this plan to safety.”
“Then I should expect the call tomorrow.” Mrs. Peacock says, “The painting is on its way to Africa. If I don’t get that call, Scott will be on his way to Africa too.”
“I understand.” Mr. Boddy says
“Tell Jet that if worse comes to worse we’ll arrange for him to say goodbye to Scott.” Mrs. Peacock says sympathetically
“What about Sylvia?” asks Mr. Boddy, “Doesn’t she deserve that?”
“She doesn’t deserve anything.” Mrs. Peacock says coldly as she hangs up
Mr. Boddy places the phone on the cradle.
“Well?” Jet asks eagerly
“We go ahead with the plan. You sign over the money to Bradford.” Mr. Boddy says
“You didn’t tell her that my mother is planning on having Bradford killed?” Jet asks
“That’s because I’m hoping the hit will be called off.” Mr. Boddy says, “I called in a favor from one of Bradford’s enemies.”
“Great,” Jet says, “He’ll be dead for sure.”
“No,” Mr. Boddy says, “This is an enemy that wants him alive… at least until Friday.”
At the top of the ravine, Gaspodin Sergei Gold stands looking at the wreckage below. He sees the limp hand begin to move as Bradford regains consciousness. Gaspodin Gold sighs in relief as he leaves the gravel road. Sir Bradford Black pulls himself out of the wreckage and begins to limp up the steep embankment.
In the Conservatory of Tudor Close Jet Black and John Boddy enter to see Jane Meadow-Brook and Sylvia Black talking.
“Well, ladies,” Mr. Boddy says, “I hope you two are having a nice morning.”
“We are thank you.” Jane smiles halfheartedly
“Sylvia,” Mr. Boddy says, “I’m sorry to tell you this, but there has been a change of plans. Bradford Black is not going to be murdered today.”
Sylvia’s face goes pale under the realization that Mr. Boddy knows.
“It’s okay, mother.” Jet says, “He’s on our side.”
“I find that hard to believe.” Sylvia says
“So did I!” Jet says, “Just hear him out. We’ll have Scott back with us by Saturday if we do what he says.”
In Paris, Mr. Donald Coal and Scott Black are bound and gagged to two chairs in the Art Studio of the apartment. Monsieur Brunette sits at his easel roughly penciling the scene before him. A tear runs down Scott’s cheek.
“You both brought this on yourselves.” Monsieur Brunette says
Mr. Coal mumbles beneath his gag. Monsieur Brunette takes a sharp knife and puts it to his throat.
“I’m going to take off this gag.” Monsieur Brunette says, “If you raise your voice any higher that a whisper, Scott will witness me tearing your larynx from your body.”
Scott closes his eyes in horror as Monsieur Brunette pulls off the gag.
“If Inspector Brown doesn’t hear from me within the hour, police will come to this apartment.” Mr. Coal whispers to Monsieur Brunette, “I told them where I was heading and they will come here and you will be in prison.”
“Well aren’t you the bearer of bad news.” Monsieur Brunette says
“Please listen to me,” Mr. Coal says as Monsieur Brunette pushes the blade closer to his throat, “Leave the knife on that table and leave here with Mrs. Peacock. By the time I free myself and Scott you two will be long gone. No one will care where you two are, so long as I bring Scott back to his family.”
Monsieur Brunette considers the offer, “You may be on to something. How long until they are expecting your call again?”
“About a half-hour.” Mr. Coal says
“Then that will give me, Mrs. Peacock, and Scott enough time to leave before anyone notices you are dead.” Monsieur Brunette says slashing the man’s throat and cutting his ropes as the man falls to the floor holding his throat and sputtering out blood.
“Time to go, Scott.” Monsieur Brunette says, “And if you try anything as we leave, you’ll be in the same predicament as he is.”
As the ropes were cut from his arms he felt a little part of him die on the inside. He knew at that moment that things had drastically changed and would never be the same again. He looks at his reflection in the mirror to see Mr. Coal’s blood freckled over his face and shirt.
In the Drawing Room of the Oakwood Residence, Lady Oakwood looks over at her housekeeper, Mrs. Crabtree whose face is red from the possibility of Percival having overheard what she just said about him remembering being in an orphanage.
“Yes darling?” Lady Oakwood smiles as she talks through her teeth.
“Julia is pregnant.” Percival says as his younger sister drops her head.
“Is this true?” asks Lady Oakwood
“Yes.” Julia says
“And who is the father?” asks Lady Oakwood
“Well…” Julia begins to say
“She was raped.” Percival lies
“Raped?” Lady Oakwood clutches her pearls.
“Unfortunately she didn’t get a good look at the person who attacked her.” Percival says
“Are you certain you are pregnant?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
“Two and a half months.” She holds her stomach
Lady Oakwood picks up the phone.
“What are you doing?” asks Percival
“Calling Sister Mary Marjorie.” Lady Oakwood says, “They have a nice convent for young pregnant mothers.”
“I’m twenty years old.” Julia says
“Yes but you are living under my roof and you are unmarried.” Lady Oakwood says
“Mother, you can’t do this to her.” Percival steps in front of his sister, “It wasn’t her fault.”
“Maybe if she wore less scanty clothing…” Lady Oakwood begins to dial
“You can’t be serious!” Julia screeches
“There is nothing wrong with dressing amply.” Lady Oakwood says, “Hello, may I speak with Sister Mary Marjorie? Yes, thank you.”
Percival sighs and looks at his sister who is staring daggers at him.
“We should have told her the truth about the father.” Julia grabs her brother’s hand and drags him into the Hall
“You and I both know she would have reacted far worse if she knew.” Percival says, “We’ll work something out. Father won’t let her get away with this.”
From the doorway of the Breakfast Room, the butler, William Crimson watches.
In the Garden of the Peacock Residence, Miss Cynthia Scarlet walks arm in arm with her step-uncle, Professor Gregory Plum.
“How you will you be staying in Hampshire, Uncle Gregory?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I’m not sure.” Professor Plum says, “I will confess I have a bit on an ulterior motive for being here.”
“Penelope told me about your financial problems in America and how your teaching job wasn’t going too well.” Miss Scarlet says with sadness
“Some bitch reported me for forcing her into an unwanted sexual relationship.” Professor Plum says
“You didn’t did you?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Of course not,” Professor Plum breaks their grasp and looks into her eyes, “I did nothing. I was just targeted by her for whatever reason.”
“Uncle, I was a bitchy school girl not long ago.” Miss Scarlet says, “They don’t just target someone without any reason.”
“I asked her out for dinner.” Professor Plum confesses, “She turned me down and laughed at me and next thing I knew I was fired.”
“I’m sorry.” Miss Scarlet says
“I had it coming.” Professor Plum says, “I should never mix business with pleasure.”
“We all make mistakes.” Miss Scarlet says slowly as her eyes fixate on Chandler trimming the hedges. She watches the sharp blades snapping and snapping as she envisions blood dripping down them. She continues to watch in morbid fascination.
“Cynthia?” Professor Plum nudges her when he realizes that she is lost in thought.
“What?” she asks still staring at Chandler
“I was just saying how nice it would be to start a new life here in Hampshire, free of mistakes.” Professor Plum says
“That sounds like a grand idea.” Miss Scarlet says smiling at her uncle, “If you’ll excuse me for a moment.” Miss Scarlet leaves her confused uncle by the bird bath as she walks over to Chandler.
“Cynthia,” he smiles, “It is so nice of your uncle to agree to let me stay here. I just can’t go back to my flat after what happened in there.”
“I need to talk to you about something.” She says with a serious look on her face.
“What’s wrong?” asks Chandler
“I have forgiven you for what you’ve done: sleeping with my stepmother, flirting with Emily, and slapping me at the party. I don’t know why but there is some subconscious anger that I’m dealing with.” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t know what it is.”
“Maybe you’re still recovering from the madness that has been going on over these past few weeks. I mean your stepmother murdered a bunch of people and the man you loved betrayed you.” Chandler says, “It’s only natural to have some conflicting emotions.”
“Conflicting emotions is one thing.” Miss Scarlet says, “Murdering you inside my head over and over is a whole other thing.”
At his desk in the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Inspector Winfield Brown stands at his chalkboard when an officer knocks on the door.
“You wanted to see me, sir?” asks the officer
“Out of curiosity, are both Emily Peach and Clement Gray being held at Dark Hill Sanitarium?” asks Inspector Brown
“I believe so.” The officer says, “Is there any significance in that?”
“I’m wondering if Sgt. Gray and Miss Peach were involved with Mrs. Peacock and Miss Thorn.” Inspector Brown says still staring at the chalkboard.
“I’m not sure.” The officer says
“Of course you’re not.” Inspector Brown says, “Well thank you for that bit of information. Let me know when you hear from Coal.”
On the floor of Monsieur Brunette’s Studio in Paris, Donald Coal breathes heavily as he holds a paint rag against his bleeding throat. He is trying to weakly stand but stumbles and lands in his chair. He worries that Brunette and Peacock may have heard him.
Out in the Living Room, Mrs. Peacock closes her suitcase as Monsieur Brunette closes his. He takes both suitcases as Mrs. Peacock puts on a sun hat and sunglasses and puts a black ski cap over Scott’s messy hair.
“Once we’re outside, keep your head down.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Lord only knows if the French police are looking for you.”
“Where are we going?” asks Scott in fear
“To a safe place for now.” Mrs. Peacock says, “If your brother and mother fail to get the money to the right person, we’ll be heading to Tangiers.”
At the Bluebell Tea House, in Hampshire, Madame Claire Rose sits sipping her tea at a table near the window. She is looking to her cup for the messages of the tea leaves as a shadow casts between her at the window. She sees Senor Sabata Bronce in his wheelchair blocking the late morning sun. She smiles at him.
“We hadn’t heard from you lately. I was wondering how you were doing.” Madame Rose says
“I miss the use of my legs.” He motions.
“Please, come have tea with me.” Madame Rose motions for him to join her, “It isn’t right for both of us to be alone.”
“Thank you,” Sabata wheels himself over to her.
“I hope you don’t mind cranberry muffins and black pudding.” Madame Rose says
“Not at all.” Sabata says with a smile, “It is not often I find myself in the presence of a beautiful woman, especially one who has respectable taste in food.”
Madame Rose blushes at his compliment, “I hate to pry.”
“Feel free.” Sabata says
“But I heard rumors that you and Estel… Mrs. Curry were having an affair.” Madame Rose says setting her tea cup down
“Ah,” Sabata says, “Nothing like a little early morning gossip.”
“I didn’t mean to upset you.” Madame Rose says
“My feelings for Celeste were merely lust.” Sabata says, “There was not a single romantic spark between the two of us.”
The server comes by with the black pudding and muffins.
“Thank you dear.” She dismisses the server, “You know Mr. Bronce…”
“Senor.” Sabata corrects her
“Senor Bronce, the black pudding is often referred to as blood sausage.” Madame Rose says, “Rather gruesome title for such a delicious food.”
“Yes,” Sabata nods helping himself to some
“But yet it is ironic.” Madame Rose says
“I fail to see the irony.” Sabata says
“The horrible way the kill the animals in order to prepare it.” Madame Rose says
“I’d rather not talk about it.” Sabata says
“But just think,” Madame Rose says, “They break the legs of the animals, much like yours, and drain the blood from them, much like they did to Hugh, and finally they pass it off as a work of art.”
“I don’t understand.” Sabata says
“Well,” Madame Rose chuckles, “You are as guilty as Mrs. Peacock is.”
“I didn’t murder anyone!” Sabata takes offense to her comment.
“No!” Madame Rose says, “Of course you didn’t. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean for you to think that I was accusing you of helping her murder people.”
“Then please explain, because I rather regret dining with you.” Sabata says
“I know Ms. Curry was weak.” Madame Rose says, “There is no way she could have scooped up all that blackmail on all those people on her own.”
“Are you suggesting that I helped her?” Sabata asks
“Why else would you have been kidnapped and placed in that cellar?” asks Madame Rose, “I find it laughable that they thought it was because you were having an affair with Ms. Curry.”
“I told you my feelings for her were of lust!” Sabata says
“Yet moments before you said that it is rare for you to find yourself in the presence of a beautiful woman,” Madame Rose says staring deeply into his eyes, “Surely you would have found Ms. Curry attractive in some way if there was a lustful spark between the two of you.”
Sabata is silent
“The police never put enough thought behind these things.” Madame Rose says
“What do you want from me?” asks Sabata
“I want you to help me, help you.” Madame Rose says, “By know I’m sure you’ve heard the Celeste Curry was actually my sister, Estelle Black. Estelle being a clever anagram for Celeste, drop one ‘L’, add one ‘C’.”
“What do you want from me?” Sabata repeats
“I want you to know that blackmail runs in the family.” Madame Rose says, “I won’t go to the police about your involvement with my sister’s blackmailing scheme if you tell me every little detail she told you about the residents of Hampshire.”
“I thought you didn’t like material gain.” Sabata says
“Oh I don’t.” Madame Rose says, “But it is good to let people know that their crimes aren’t as secret as they try to keep them.”
“Where shall I start?” asks Sabata
“Start with the biggest secret you know.” Madame Rose says taking a muffin and buttering it
“The Oakwood Family.” Sabata says in a low voice
In the Attic of the Oakwood Residence, Mrs. Beryl Crabtree and Lady Elizabeth Oakwood walk down the aisles and aisles of dust boxes and old trunks.
“I don’t know why you don’t leave well enough alone.” Mrs. Crabtree says clutching the crucifix around her neck, “I’m in as much risk as you are!”
“Julia is going to be sent away,” Lady Oakwood says, “Which means I’ll be having a lot more quality time with Percival. If he starts asking questions I’d rather have all the evidence gone.”
-FLASHBACK – JULY 21, 1933 –
The ring of the doorbell at the Oakwood residence echoes through the immaculate Hall. Mrs. Crabtree opens the door as Lady Oakwood comes from the Study.
“Lillian?” she gasps, “What the hell are you doing here?”
“I’m here to take Percival back to the orphanage.” Lillian says
“You can’t!” Lady Oakwood says, “You’ve no right.”
“You lied!” Lillian says, “I was the only nun in that convent who pitied you! You told me some sob story and I believed you. I even went to the lengths of lying about a break in. Do you know how much guilt I’ve dealt with? Then I find out you give birth to a baby girl.”
“Lillian, please.” Lady Oakwood says, “Come into the Drawing Room, we can talk this out.”
“I’ve made up my mind.” Lillian says, “I’m taking Percival back. He doesn’t deserve to be around wicked parents like you and Edward are!”
“What the hell is going on out here?” asks Lord Oakwood coming from the top of the stairs, “Miss Bijou?”
“Hello, Edward.” Lillian says, “I know the scam you pulled and I’m here to make things right!”
Lady Oakwood’s eyes land on the silver Candlestick on the Drawing Room mantel.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“Here we are,” Lady Oakwood says stopping at a large wooden chest with gold designs on it.
“Are you sure this is wise?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
Lady Oakwood kneels before it and unlatches it. She opens it and inside is a decayed skeleton covered in cobwebs. The stench of the corpse reaches the noses of the woman. There is a crack on the skull of the corpse. The corpse is also wearing a priest’s outfit.
“There he is.” Lady Oakwood says
“What now?” asks Mrs. Crabtree
“We clean our prints off of it and put it in the Peacock’s basement.” Lady Oakwood says, “It makes perfect sense when you take everything into consideration.”
At the Dark Hill Sanitarium, a young woman with blonde and red hair walks up the steps. She clutches a white shawl around her shoulders. She is wearing an orange and pink floral dress. She enters the building and walks to the desk.
“I’m here to see Emily Peach.” She says in a timid American accent.
“I’m afraid Miss Peach isn’t taking any visitors at this time.” The desk worker says
“Then would you please tell her that her sister Georgia is here and wants to know what the hell happened?” the woman asks