Episode 37 – “The Lies We Tell Ourselves”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Bradford confesses to Mr. Green that he put Yuri Gold’s body in the car and crashed it on purpose. Bradford is attacked in the Billiard Room of Tudor Close by someone with a billiard cue. The memorial party for Hugh Black is a complete flop as Georgia Peach admits to be Helena Black’s daughter which Sylvia overhears. Mrs. Peacock explains to Mrs. White, Jet, and Scott that she only kidnapped Scott to keep him away from Bradford who would have easily sold him to Prince Azure. Monsieur Brunette holds Jet captive and goes to the Boat House to retrieve the money that Sylvia left for Mrs. Peacock. When Monsieur Brunette turns to shoot Jet he is in turn shot by Sylvia. Sylvia, Jet, and Scott are finally reunited. Prince Azure turns out to be in cahoots with Helena Black who is in a coma in an unknown location…
-Sunday, May 8, 1949 –
-Morning-
The gentle sound of a violin echoes from within the Ballroom of Tudor Close. Mrs. White, who is opening the Hall windows, finds this particularly strange since the sound of violin music hasn’t graced the house for years. She pulls her hair back as she heads towards the Ballroom doors. She opens them to see Sylvia Black sitting at a chair with a music stand in front of her. She is quickly working through her violin solo and does not notice Mrs. White standing in the doorway. Mrs. White watches Sylvia and listens to the emotion that is brought out as the instrument is used. She hears the anxiousness and sorrow behind the bow as it strikes the strings in a smooth and steady fashion. Mrs. White sighs and listens as Sylvia concludes.
“That was beautiful.” Mrs. White says, startling Sylvia
“I didn’t realize anyone was inside the house.” Mrs. Black says apologetically putting the violin away
“No need to apologize.” Mrs. White says, “I just came in to open up the windows. It’s such a nice day. I thought the house could use a little fresh air.”
“That’s very thoughtful of you Mrs. White.” Mrs. Black says as she helps Mrs. White opening the large French doors leading out to the Rose Garden.
“Don’t you just love that smell,” Mrs. Black asks as she allows the fresh spring air to fill her lungs.
“It means summer is just around the corner.” Mrs. White moans
“Are the boys still out boating?” asks Mrs. Black
“Yes,” Mrs. White says, “I could see Jet, Scott, and Mr. Boddy all from the terrace.”
Mrs. Black gives a smile, “Perhaps I should go take a look…”
“You need to give Master Scott his space.” Mrs. White says, “He has been smothered too much by you and me. He needs to spend some time with his cousin and brother.”
“I suppose.” Mrs. Black says, “I just thought he was gone forever.”
“I know.” Mrs. White says comforting Sylvia
“And then there was the rat race all around Tudor Close trying to find out where he was.” Mrs. Black says
“I know.” Mrs. White says
“Or the fact that we buried a man in the Rose Garden.” Mrs. Black says shaking her head in disbelief
“Rusty wasn’t too keen of the idea of having his award winning roses dug up.” Mrs. White chuckles
“My head is still reeling.” Mrs. Black says
“Everything is over now.” Mrs. White says, “Bradford is in prison, Mrs. Peacock is getting treatment, and Hampshire is finally beginning to heal.”
“Still,” Mrs. Black says, “I just hate thinking about all the damage that has been done here.”
“Perhaps it’s time for a little redecorating.” Mrs. White says
“You aren’t honestly on board with Bradford’s remodeling plans?” Mrs. Black asks as the two women head back to the Hall.
“No,” Mrs. White says, “I was thinking just redecorating the rooms which hold painful memories. The Hall for example: it was where Dr. Black passed away. Perhaps new wallpaper or new flooring will help ease the eerie chill that fills the air.”
“I never did like the stained glass windows above the stairs and front doors.” Mrs. Black says as she and Mrs. White exit the house through the front doors.
“Really?” asks Mrs. White as she waves to Rusty, who is weeding around the driveway.
“It’s too gothic.” Mrs. Black says turning around and looking up at the Manor, “It makes me feel like I’m living in a medieval castle.”
“I’m not sure if you’ve noticed,” Mrs. White points, “But Tudor Close does have a medieval feel to it.”
Mrs. Black stares at the dark grey bricks of Tudor Close for several moments, “Would it be possible to have a lighter brick replace the dark grey ones?”
“I’m not sure.” Mrs. White says craning her neck and looking at the gargoyles.
“I think Tudor Close needs to be renovated from the outside.” Mrs. Black says, “Every time a person looks up the hill and sees this dark grey, gothic house, all that he will say is ‘that’s the place where the murders took place’. I want people to see it and wonder what it is like to be inside.”
“It sounds like an expensive project.” Mrs. White says
“Probably.” Mrs. Black says, “But I think with my recent beneficial arrangement with Mr. Green, we can afford it.”
On the other side of Mayfield, in Port Wells, Mr. Green tips the elevator operator of the Periwinkle Building. He walks confidently across the light gray carpets on the forty-seventh floor. He fixes his tie and is greeted by a young secretary who hands him a cup of coffee.
“Thank you, Miss Palmer.” Mr. Green smiles
“There is a man in your office waiting for you.” Miss Palmer says, “I’m sorry we had to call you in on a Sunday morning.”
“That’s no problem,” Mr. Green says, “I like the fact that this building is always running.”
Mr. Green opens his office door to see Inspector Winfield Brown examining some desk ornaments that Mr. Green has displayed.
“I figured it would be you.” Mr. Green says setting his briefcase on the desk.
“Let’s get down to business, shall we?” asks Inspector Brown
Mr. Green pops open his brief case which contains dozens stacks of money. He takes out two stacks and hands them to Inspector Brown, who in turn puts them in the deep pockets of his trench coat.
“Ah it’s a pleasure doing business with you.” Inspector Brown smiles
“I wanted to thank you personally.” Mr. Green says changing his tone, “Without you I might not be here today.”
“I did what needed to be done.” Inspector Brown says
-FLASHBACK- APRIL 22-
In the Billiard Room of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black forces Mr. Green into the center of the dark room. Lightning flashes outside illuminating the Billiard Room. Bradford and Mr. Green see a shadow move in the room.
“Who’s there?” Bradford asks, “I have a gun!”
Without warning or any indication a billiard cue slams over Bradford’s head. He drops the gun and falls to the floor. Lightning illuminates the room again and Mr. Green sees Inspector Brown standing over Bradford’s motionless body.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“Mr. Meadow-Brook will be in touch.” Mr. Green shakes Inspector Brown’s hand
“I’m sure that he will.” Inspector Brown says turning to the door of Mr. Green’s office
“Winfield,” Mr. Green says, “Miles will come around and accept you into this off shore business. I’m sure that he will.”
“We got off on the wrong foot.” Inspector Brown says, “I’m sure he has forgotten all about blackmail.”
In his Study, Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook has covered every inch of the floor with papers. He has a stubbly grey beard growing and there are dark circles around his eyes. On his desk are various letters cut out from newspapers in piles. There is a knock on the Study door. Mr. Meadow-Brook carefully steps over the papers and opens the door to see Madame Rose standing in the Hallway.
“I rang the doorbell.” Madame Rose says, “Your front door was open.”
“I didn’t hear.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says in a coarse voice
“You look terrible.” Madame Rose says
“I haven’t slept in a few days,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says leading her across the Hall and into the Drawing Room, “Coffee?”
“No thank you,” Madame Rose says, “I just came by because I have some more blackmail information.”
“Excellent,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says pouring himself a cup of coffee, “Does it have anything to do with the wealthy fortune teller who has been collecting tidbits from random townsfolk?”
Madame Rose looks at him blankly
“I’m kidding!” Mr. Meadow-Brook chuckles, “I would never blackmail my own informant.”
“It’s about your wife.” Madame Rose says
“Oh?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Despite the fact that she has agreed to stay married to you…” Madame Rose says
“Because I blackmailed Sylvia so that she would convince Jane to take me back.” Mr. Meadow-Brook interrupts her
“Yes,” Madame Rose says, “Despite the fact that Jane is putting up with you…”
“Because I in turn blackmailed her to stay married to me.” Mr. Meadow-Brook interrupts her again
“Let me finish.” Madame Rose says with annoyance on her voice, “Despite the fact that Jane is staying married to you and living with you and pretending to be your happy wife, she is seeing someone.”
“Who?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
At Tudor Close, Jane Meadow-Brook carries a basket of muffins. She walks over to Rusty Naylor who is still weeding around the driveway.
“Hello Rusty.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“Good morning,” Rusty removes his cap and stands up
“I baked some muffins this morning and it turns out I made far too many.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I was wondering if you would mind taking them for me.”
“Oh that’s very thoughtful of you.” Rusty says nodding and taking one.
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“They taste just like the ones me mum used to make back home in Ireland.” Rusty smiles
“I’m glad to hear that.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook hands him the basket, “Rusty, before you go, I was wondering if you were busy tomorrow evening?”
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook?” Rusty is taken back
“It’s just that Miles and I aren’t exactly mending well,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “And I have a test dinner that I would like to try out, and since you are fond of my cooking…”
“Say no more.” Rusty says, “I’ll be glad to.”
“6.30?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“Sounds good to me.” Rusty says
“Dress will be casual.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smirks
Across Town at First Catholic Church of Hampshire, Reverend Hunter concludes his sermon as the congregation breaks off. Miss Julia Oakwood and Sister Mary Marjorie sit together.
“Look at them.” Miss Oakwood says motioning to her mother and father who are shaking hands with Reverend Hunter.
“Would you like to talk with them?” asks Sister Mary Marjorie
“I would soon cut off my own arm.” Miss Oakwood says
In the back of the church, Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock all mill about.
“Those sniveling, toady busybodies,” Mrs. Peacock says through her teeth as she pleasantly waves to a group of finely dressed women.
“Who?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I see the way they look at me.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Even though Inspector Brown made a public exoneration of my name those lips are still flapping about me.”
“You can’t have expected everyone to just forget.” Miss Scarlet says, “After all you are the real murderer.”
“Keep your voice down!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Bradford took the fall for everything! That should have stopped it all.”
“It’s never that simple.” Miss Scarlet says as Miss Peach approaches her from the vestibule.
“Cynthia,” Miss Peach says, “I didn’t see you or I would have sat next to you.”
“Oh,” Miss Scarlet smiles, “Mother this is Georgia Peach, the girl I was telling you about.”
“How do you do,” Mrs. Peacock shakes her hand
“I read in the papers that you were framed for the murders. Golly, that must have been a horrible burden.” Miss Peach says
“It is.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It really is. I heard from Cynthia that you are on a quest to find out everything you can about your biological mother, Helena Black?”
“Yes,” Miss Peach says
“How is that going?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Not very well unfortunately,” Miss Peach says, “Sylvia Black refuses to talk to me. The family has gone through enough though.”
“Yes, they have.” Mrs. Peacock says distantly
In the Port Wells Penitentiary, Bradford Black is brought into the visitation room. He is shocked to see Prince Philippe Azure and Mr. Rivers.
“Your highness,” Bradford lowers his head
“I don’t like showing my face in here.” Prince Azure says, “So let me be very clear about something: I will not be coming back again.”
“I understand,” Bradford says in defeat
“You screwed up,” Prince Azure says, “I should have the boy by now.”
“I know.” Bradford says
“I have it in my power that I will still get the boy.” Prince Azure says, “Only this time I am going to do things myself.”
Bradford looks up at Prince Azure, “If you get me out of here I will get do anything you need.”
“I’m afraid it is out of my power.” Prince Azure says, “Besides, I do not wish to see you screw everything up again.”
At the Peacock Residence, Professor Gregory Plum enters the Hall with Mrs. Myrtle.
“I can’t believe it took so long for you to be released from the Hospital.” Mrs. Myrtle says
“They had to do tests to make sure I wasn’t brain dead after the attack in Paris.” Professor Plum says
“Is there anything I can get for you?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “Dr. Prussian said you should rest. He’ll be by later today to check on you.”
“Water is all I need.” Professor Plum says sitting down in the Drawing Room and picking up the morning paper. Mrs. Myrtle heads to the kitchen as the front door opens. Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock enter the house.
“Hello, Gregory,” Mrs. Peacock says, “It’s good to see you here.”
“It’s good to be here.” Professor Plum says
“I’m going to get changed and head to the Tennis Courts with Cynthia and Chandler.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Would you like to come along to watch?”
“I think I’ll stay here.” Professor Plum says
“Suit yourself.” Mrs. Peacock says heading upstairs
“Uncle Gregory,” Miss Scarlet says, “I wanted to talk with you.”
“Oh?” Professor Plum asks
Miss Scarlet reaches into her purse and pulls out a bag of fine white powder. The color drains from Professor Plum’s face.
“Be honest with me,” Miss Scarlet says, “Is this cocaine?”
“No,” Professor Plum says with slight relief, “It is a powder chemical that I’m selling to someone.”
“What type of chemical?” Miss Scarlet says
“It is a tasteless, odorless poison. It is completely undetectable.” Professor Plum explains
“Why would you need something like this?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I don’t but someone else does.” Professor Plum says
“Who?” asks Miss Scarlet, “Who are you selling it to?”
“An old friend by the name of Thallo Green.” Professor Plum says, “Cynthia you can’t mention this to anyone.”
“This doesn’t seem right.” Miss Scarlet says
“What he does with this is out of my hands.” Professor Plum says, “He said he would never use it. He just needs it as a wager.”
“This coming from a man who is in the mafia.” Miss Scarlet says
“He prefers to think of it as a business arrangement in Liverpool.” Professor Plum says
“Organized crime.” Miss Scarlet says
“More or less,” Professor Plum nods
“I don’t know if this is a good idea.” Miss Scarlet says, “This could come back to you if a murder is committed.”
“By the way that the jurisdiction of Hampshire works, I’m pretty sure anyone can get away with murder.” Professor Plum says
On the Terrace outside of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black and Mrs. White watch as Jet, Scott, and Mr. Boddy come back from the Boat House. Rusty has made his way to weeding around the Terrace. Mr. Ash is standing in the Library doorway.
“Did you boy have fun?” Sylvia asks
“We saw a deer.” Scott says enthusiastically, “Can we go swimming?”
“Not now,” Sylvia says, “I think we need to talk in the Library.”
“What’s going on?” asks Scott
Sylvia leads Scott into the Library where Mr. Ash and Dr. Olive are.
“Scott,” Sylvia says, “This is Dr. Olive. He is a therapist at the sanitarium.”
“Am I crazy?” asks Scott
“I just thought you needed someone to talk to about everything that happened.” Sylvia says
“I’m actually trying to leave it all behind.” Scott says
“Repressing painful experiences isn’t a healthy way of coping.” Dr. Olive says
“You’d rather have me relive the fears all over again?” Scott says calmly, “I’m finally feeling like a normal kid again. I delivered the morning papers, I’m studying for my history test, and I spent a day at the lake. I don’t need to talk about this, I don’t need any help. I’m fine. Really I am.”
Dr. Olive stands up, “If you need to talk to someone, have your mother call me.”
“Don’t worry,” Scott smiles, “You’ll be the first to know.”
“Why don’t you stay for tea,” Sylvia invites Dr. Olive
“That sounds lovely.” Dr. Olive says
“Scott, why don’t you go upstairs and get changed for tea.” Sylvia suggests
Scott races out of the Library and up the staircase. He opens his bedroom door and locks it quickly. His smiling face turns into a serious look of anger and frustration as he pulls out his dressing drawer. He removes a large kitchen knife from the spot underneath the drawer. He stands in front of the mirror and looks deeply into his reflection as he holds the large kitchen knife. Scott quickly grabs a pillow off of his bed and gently runs the tip of the knife over the light blue pillowcase. He sets the pillow on the floor and runs his fingers along the delicate softness of the cotton fabric.
“Blue like a peacock,” he whispers to the pillow.
He viciously begins to stab it. Grunting and panting he slashes through the fabric of the pillowcase and into the heart of the pillow. Feathers and fabric tangle in his blonde hair as tears fall from his face. He continues to stab viciously until he hears the kitchen knife hit the wood floor beneath him. He wipes his nose and eyes with his sleeve and replaces the knife and his drawer. He then gathers the pillow and its contents and dumps them in the closet where numerous other pillows are strewn about.
-Sunday, May 8, 1949 –
-Morning-
The gentle sound of a violin echoes from within the Ballroom of Tudor Close. Mrs. White, who is opening the Hall windows, finds this particularly strange since the sound of violin music hasn’t graced the house for years. She pulls her hair back as she heads towards the Ballroom doors. She opens them to see Sylvia Black sitting at a chair with a music stand in front of her. She is quickly working through her violin solo and does not notice Mrs. White standing in the doorway. Mrs. White watches Sylvia and listens to the emotion that is brought out as the instrument is used. She hears the anxiousness and sorrow behind the bow as it strikes the strings in a smooth and steady fashion. Mrs. White sighs and listens as Sylvia concludes.
“That was beautiful.” Mrs. White says, startling Sylvia
“I didn’t realize anyone was inside the house.” Mrs. Black says apologetically putting the violin away
“No need to apologize.” Mrs. White says, “I just came in to open up the windows. It’s such a nice day. I thought the house could use a little fresh air.”
“That’s very thoughtful of you Mrs. White.” Mrs. Black says as she helps Mrs. White opening the large French doors leading out to the Rose Garden.
“Don’t you just love that smell,” Mrs. Black asks as she allows the fresh spring air to fill her lungs.
“It means summer is just around the corner.” Mrs. White moans
“Are the boys still out boating?” asks Mrs. Black
“Yes,” Mrs. White says, “I could see Jet, Scott, and Mr. Boddy all from the terrace.”
Mrs. Black gives a smile, “Perhaps I should go take a look…”
“You need to give Master Scott his space.” Mrs. White says, “He has been smothered too much by you and me. He needs to spend some time with his cousin and brother.”
“I suppose.” Mrs. Black says, “I just thought he was gone forever.”
“I know.” Mrs. White says comforting Sylvia
“And then there was the rat race all around Tudor Close trying to find out where he was.” Mrs. Black says
“I know.” Mrs. White says
“Or the fact that we buried a man in the Rose Garden.” Mrs. Black says shaking her head in disbelief
“Rusty wasn’t too keen of the idea of having his award winning roses dug up.” Mrs. White chuckles
“My head is still reeling.” Mrs. Black says
“Everything is over now.” Mrs. White says, “Bradford is in prison, Mrs. Peacock is getting treatment, and Hampshire is finally beginning to heal.”
“Still,” Mrs. Black says, “I just hate thinking about all the damage that has been done here.”
“Perhaps it’s time for a little redecorating.” Mrs. White says
“You aren’t honestly on board with Bradford’s remodeling plans?” Mrs. Black asks as the two women head back to the Hall.
“No,” Mrs. White says, “I was thinking just redecorating the rooms which hold painful memories. The Hall for example: it was where Dr. Black passed away. Perhaps new wallpaper or new flooring will help ease the eerie chill that fills the air.”
“I never did like the stained glass windows above the stairs and front doors.” Mrs. Black says as she and Mrs. White exit the house through the front doors.
“Really?” asks Mrs. White as she waves to Rusty, who is weeding around the driveway.
“It’s too gothic.” Mrs. Black says turning around and looking up at the Manor, “It makes me feel like I’m living in a medieval castle.”
“I’m not sure if you’ve noticed,” Mrs. White points, “But Tudor Close does have a medieval feel to it.”
Mrs. Black stares at the dark grey bricks of Tudor Close for several moments, “Would it be possible to have a lighter brick replace the dark grey ones?”
“I’m not sure.” Mrs. White says craning her neck and looking at the gargoyles.
“I think Tudor Close needs to be renovated from the outside.” Mrs. Black says, “Every time a person looks up the hill and sees this dark grey, gothic house, all that he will say is ‘that’s the place where the murders took place’. I want people to see it and wonder what it is like to be inside.”
“It sounds like an expensive project.” Mrs. White says
“Probably.” Mrs. Black says, “But I think with my recent beneficial arrangement with Mr. Green, we can afford it.”
On the other side of Mayfield, in Port Wells, Mr. Green tips the elevator operator of the Periwinkle Building. He walks confidently across the light gray carpets on the forty-seventh floor. He fixes his tie and is greeted by a young secretary who hands him a cup of coffee.
“Thank you, Miss Palmer.” Mr. Green smiles
“There is a man in your office waiting for you.” Miss Palmer says, “I’m sorry we had to call you in on a Sunday morning.”
“That’s no problem,” Mr. Green says, “I like the fact that this building is always running.”
Mr. Green opens his office door to see Inspector Winfield Brown examining some desk ornaments that Mr. Green has displayed.
“I figured it would be you.” Mr. Green says setting his briefcase on the desk.
“Let’s get down to business, shall we?” asks Inspector Brown
Mr. Green pops open his brief case which contains dozens stacks of money. He takes out two stacks and hands them to Inspector Brown, who in turn puts them in the deep pockets of his trench coat.
“Ah it’s a pleasure doing business with you.” Inspector Brown smiles
“I wanted to thank you personally.” Mr. Green says changing his tone, “Without you I might not be here today.”
“I did what needed to be done.” Inspector Brown says
-FLASHBACK- APRIL 22-
In the Billiard Room of Tudor Close, Sir Bradford Black forces Mr. Green into the center of the dark room. Lightning flashes outside illuminating the Billiard Room. Bradford and Mr. Green see a shadow move in the room.
“Who’s there?” Bradford asks, “I have a gun!”
Without warning or any indication a billiard cue slams over Bradford’s head. He drops the gun and falls to the floor. Lightning illuminates the room again and Mr. Green sees Inspector Brown standing over Bradford’s motionless body.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“Mr. Meadow-Brook will be in touch.” Mr. Green shakes Inspector Brown’s hand
“I’m sure that he will.” Inspector Brown says turning to the door of Mr. Green’s office
“Winfield,” Mr. Green says, “Miles will come around and accept you into this off shore business. I’m sure that he will.”
“We got off on the wrong foot.” Inspector Brown says, “I’m sure he has forgotten all about blackmail.”
In his Study, Mr. Miles Meadow-Brook has covered every inch of the floor with papers. He has a stubbly grey beard growing and there are dark circles around his eyes. On his desk are various letters cut out from newspapers in piles. There is a knock on the Study door. Mr. Meadow-Brook carefully steps over the papers and opens the door to see Madame Rose standing in the Hallway.
“I rang the doorbell.” Madame Rose says, “Your front door was open.”
“I didn’t hear.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says in a coarse voice
“You look terrible.” Madame Rose says
“I haven’t slept in a few days,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says leading her across the Hall and into the Drawing Room, “Coffee?”
“No thank you,” Madame Rose says, “I just came by because I have some more blackmail information.”
“Excellent,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says pouring himself a cup of coffee, “Does it have anything to do with the wealthy fortune teller who has been collecting tidbits from random townsfolk?”
Madame Rose looks at him blankly
“I’m kidding!” Mr. Meadow-Brook chuckles, “I would never blackmail my own informant.”
“It’s about your wife.” Madame Rose says
“Oh?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
“Despite the fact that she has agreed to stay married to you…” Madame Rose says
“Because I blackmailed Sylvia so that she would convince Jane to take me back.” Mr. Meadow-Brook interrupts her
“Yes,” Madame Rose says, “Despite the fact that Jane is putting up with you…”
“Because I in turn blackmailed her to stay married to me.” Mr. Meadow-Brook interrupts her again
“Let me finish.” Madame Rose says with annoyance on her voice, “Despite the fact that Jane is staying married to you and living with you and pretending to be your happy wife, she is seeing someone.”
“Who?” asks Mr. Meadow-Brook
At Tudor Close, Jane Meadow-Brook carries a basket of muffins. She walks over to Rusty Naylor who is still weeding around the driveway.
“Hello Rusty.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“Good morning,” Rusty removes his cap and stands up
“I baked some muffins this morning and it turns out I made far too many.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “I was wondering if you would mind taking them for me.”
“Oh that’s very thoughtful of you.” Rusty says nodding and taking one.
Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“They taste just like the ones me mum used to make back home in Ireland.” Rusty smiles
“I’m glad to hear that.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook hands him the basket, “Rusty, before you go, I was wondering if you were busy tomorrow evening?”
“Mrs. Meadow-Brook?” Rusty is taken back
“It’s just that Miles and I aren’t exactly mending well,” Mrs. Meadow-Brook says, “And I have a test dinner that I would like to try out, and since you are fond of my cooking…”
“Say no more.” Rusty says, “I’ll be glad to.”
“6.30?” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smiles
“Sounds good to me.” Rusty says
“Dress will be casual.” Mrs. Meadow-Brook smirks
Across Town at First Catholic Church of Hampshire, Reverend Hunter concludes his sermon as the congregation breaks off. Miss Julia Oakwood and Sister Mary Marjorie sit together.
“Look at them.” Miss Oakwood says motioning to her mother and father who are shaking hands with Reverend Hunter.
“Would you like to talk with them?” asks Sister Mary Marjorie
“I would soon cut off my own arm.” Miss Oakwood says
In the back of the church, Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock all mill about.
“Those sniveling, toady busybodies,” Mrs. Peacock says through her teeth as she pleasantly waves to a group of finely dressed women.
“Who?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I see the way they look at me.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Even though Inspector Brown made a public exoneration of my name those lips are still flapping about me.”
“You can’t have expected everyone to just forget.” Miss Scarlet says, “After all you are the real murderer.”
“Keep your voice down!” Mrs. Peacock says, “Bradford took the fall for everything! That should have stopped it all.”
“It’s never that simple.” Miss Scarlet says as Miss Peach approaches her from the vestibule.
“Cynthia,” Miss Peach says, “I didn’t see you or I would have sat next to you.”
“Oh,” Miss Scarlet smiles, “Mother this is Georgia Peach, the girl I was telling you about.”
“How do you do,” Mrs. Peacock shakes her hand
“I read in the papers that you were framed for the murders. Golly, that must have been a horrible burden.” Miss Peach says
“It is.” Mrs. Peacock says, “It really is. I heard from Cynthia that you are on a quest to find out everything you can about your biological mother, Helena Black?”
“Yes,” Miss Peach says
“How is that going?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“Not very well unfortunately,” Miss Peach says, “Sylvia Black refuses to talk to me. The family has gone through enough though.”
“Yes, they have.” Mrs. Peacock says distantly
In the Port Wells Penitentiary, Bradford Black is brought into the visitation room. He is shocked to see Prince Philippe Azure and Mr. Rivers.
“Your highness,” Bradford lowers his head
“I don’t like showing my face in here.” Prince Azure says, “So let me be very clear about something: I will not be coming back again.”
“I understand,” Bradford says in defeat
“You screwed up,” Prince Azure says, “I should have the boy by now.”
“I know.” Bradford says
“I have it in my power that I will still get the boy.” Prince Azure says, “Only this time I am going to do things myself.”
Bradford looks up at Prince Azure, “If you get me out of here I will get do anything you need.”
“I’m afraid it is out of my power.” Prince Azure says, “Besides, I do not wish to see you screw everything up again.”
At the Peacock Residence, Professor Gregory Plum enters the Hall with Mrs. Myrtle.
“I can’t believe it took so long for you to be released from the Hospital.” Mrs. Myrtle says
“They had to do tests to make sure I wasn’t brain dead after the attack in Paris.” Professor Plum says
“Is there anything I can get for you?” asks Mrs. Myrtle, “Dr. Prussian said you should rest. He’ll be by later today to check on you.”
“Water is all I need.” Professor Plum says sitting down in the Drawing Room and picking up the morning paper. Mrs. Myrtle heads to the kitchen as the front door opens. Miss Scarlet and Mrs. Peacock enter the house.
“Hello, Gregory,” Mrs. Peacock says, “It’s good to see you here.”
“It’s good to be here.” Professor Plum says
“I’m going to get changed and head to the Tennis Courts with Cynthia and Chandler.” Mrs. Peacock says, “Would you like to come along to watch?”
“I think I’ll stay here.” Professor Plum says
“Suit yourself.” Mrs. Peacock says heading upstairs
“Uncle Gregory,” Miss Scarlet says, “I wanted to talk with you.”
“Oh?” Professor Plum asks
Miss Scarlet reaches into her purse and pulls out a bag of fine white powder. The color drains from Professor Plum’s face.
“Be honest with me,” Miss Scarlet says, “Is this cocaine?”
“No,” Professor Plum says with slight relief, “It is a powder chemical that I’m selling to someone.”
“What type of chemical?” Miss Scarlet says
“It is a tasteless, odorless poison. It is completely undetectable.” Professor Plum explains
“Why would you need something like this?” asks Miss Scarlet
“I don’t but someone else does.” Professor Plum says
“Who?” asks Miss Scarlet, “Who are you selling it to?”
“An old friend by the name of Thallo Green.” Professor Plum says, “Cynthia you can’t mention this to anyone.”
“This doesn’t seem right.” Miss Scarlet says
“What he does with this is out of my hands.” Professor Plum says, “He said he would never use it. He just needs it as a wager.”
“This coming from a man who is in the mafia.” Miss Scarlet says
“He prefers to think of it as a business arrangement in Liverpool.” Professor Plum says
“Organized crime.” Miss Scarlet says
“More or less,” Professor Plum nods
“I don’t know if this is a good idea.” Miss Scarlet says, “This could come back to you if a murder is committed.”
“By the way that the jurisdiction of Hampshire works, I’m pretty sure anyone can get away with murder.” Professor Plum says
On the Terrace outside of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black and Mrs. White watch as Jet, Scott, and Mr. Boddy come back from the Boat House. Rusty has made his way to weeding around the Terrace. Mr. Ash is standing in the Library doorway.
“Did you boy have fun?” Sylvia asks
“We saw a deer.” Scott says enthusiastically, “Can we go swimming?”
“Not now,” Sylvia says, “I think we need to talk in the Library.”
“What’s going on?” asks Scott
Sylvia leads Scott into the Library where Mr. Ash and Dr. Olive are.
“Scott,” Sylvia says, “This is Dr. Olive. He is a therapist at the sanitarium.”
“Am I crazy?” asks Scott
“I just thought you needed someone to talk to about everything that happened.” Sylvia says
“I’m actually trying to leave it all behind.” Scott says
“Repressing painful experiences isn’t a healthy way of coping.” Dr. Olive says
“You’d rather have me relive the fears all over again?” Scott says calmly, “I’m finally feeling like a normal kid again. I delivered the morning papers, I’m studying for my history test, and I spent a day at the lake. I don’t need to talk about this, I don’t need any help. I’m fine. Really I am.”
Dr. Olive stands up, “If you need to talk to someone, have your mother call me.”
“Don’t worry,” Scott smiles, “You’ll be the first to know.”
“Why don’t you stay for tea,” Sylvia invites Dr. Olive
“That sounds lovely.” Dr. Olive says
“Scott, why don’t you go upstairs and get changed for tea.” Sylvia suggests
Scott races out of the Library and up the staircase. He opens his bedroom door and locks it quickly. His smiling face turns into a serious look of anger and frustration as he pulls out his dressing drawer. He removes a large kitchen knife from the spot underneath the drawer. He stands in front of the mirror and looks deeply into his reflection as he holds the large kitchen knife. Scott quickly grabs a pillow off of his bed and gently runs the tip of the knife over the light blue pillowcase. He sets the pillow on the floor and runs his fingers along the delicate softness of the cotton fabric.
“Blue like a peacock,” he whispers to the pillow.
He viciously begins to stab it. Grunting and panting he slashes through the fabric of the pillowcase and into the heart of the pillow. Feathers and fabric tangle in his blonde hair as tears fall from his face. He continues to stab viciously until he hears the kitchen knife hit the wood floor beneath him. He wipes his nose and eyes with his sleeve and replaces the knife and his drawer. He then gathers the pillow and its contents and dumps them in the closet where numerous other pillows are strewn about.