Episode 40 – “Let’s Start Everything Over Again”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Mrs. Peacock is blackmailed by local busybody, Lena Hawthorne who has the advantage of having a tower which views over most of Hampshire with the assistance of her binoculars. Mrs. Black hires a staff to help in the renovation of Tudor Close. George Biddle, the insurance assessor, scams Mrs. Black out of a rare and expensive statuette with his assistant, Frances LeBlanc, who is here with an alternative scheme against the Black family. Scott Black begins to show signs of unstable, schizophrenic, and homicidal behavior to which his brother tries to help with but proves futile. Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard’s dinner date goes poorly when Colonel Mustard chokes on an olive and is saved by Dr. Prussian. Dr. Prussian’s wife, Roxanne, starts up an old affair in which she had years ago with Professor Plum in the Cloak Room of the A La Carte Restaurant. Colonel Mustard witnesses both of them exiting. Jane Meadow-Brook enjoys a pleasant dinner with Rusty until she realizes that she gave him the wrong impression of moving on to another man. Rusty leaves defeated and annoyed. Ms. Hawthorne pays Bradford Black a visit in prison and offers to tell the police that she witnessed Mrs. Peacock strangling Celeste Curry if he names the right price…
-Monday, May 9, 1949 –
-Night-
The door opens with a quick motion as Rusty Naylor enters his house, which is nothing more than an old cabin across the Lake from Tudor Close. The interior is less than appealing: a tool bench to one side, a dining table in the center, a dusty flat mattress in an old metal bedframe to the left side.
“She’ll grow to love me.” Rusty says confidently, “I know that she is hurting in that ungodly relationship with Miles.”
He walks over to the kitchen cabinet and takes out a bottle of scotch. He pours himself a shot and downs it quickly.
“Once she knows the lengths I’m willing to go to make her mine…” Rusty turns on the stove and puts a kettle of broth over the flame.
Mrs. Peacock’s Rolls Royce drives into the driveway of the Peacock Residence. Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard step out of the car and walk hand in hand to the front door of Mrs. Peacock’s house.
“It was a wonderful night,” Mrs. Peacock says turning to him at the door.
“If only I didn’t choke on the bloody olive.” Colonel Mustard says blushing
Mrs. Peacock laughs, “It made me realize how much I care for you. I don’t know what I would do if anything happened to you.”
In the Gate House of Tudor Close, Mr. George Biddle and Miss Frances LeBlanc enter.
“Cobwebs!” Miss LeBlanc says as she shakes one off of her hand
“Was this really necessary to meet here?” asks Mr. Biddle with a different tone on his voice.
“You should be happy I saved your life.” Mr. Boddy says stepping out of the shadows of the Gate House.
“Yes,” Mr. Biddle says rubbing his shoulder, “If it wasn’t for Sylvia’s bad aim the bullet would have killed me.”
Mr. Biddle removes his moustache, glasses, and wig to reveal himself as Monsieur Alphonse Brunette.
“Whatever grudge you hold against this family, could run neck and neck with the grudges that I hold.” Mr. Boddy says
“And I wanted to thank you both for allowing me to get closer to this family.” Miss LeBlanc says taking off her glasses and long brown wig revealing herself as Georgia Peach.
At his home on Ceil Drive, Dr. Rex Prussian stands in front of the long mirror in the corner of the Master Bedroom. He unties his tie and looks at his tired eyes and wrinkles. Roxanne comes out of the Master Bathroom in a long dark blue night robe.
“You’ve sobered down a bit.” Dr. Prussian says with discontentment on his voice
“I wasn’t drunk.” Roxanne says, “That was my natural flair.”
“Well you might want to tone it down a little.” Dr. Prussian says, “People were staring.”
“Wow,” Roxanne says sarcastically, “If I didn’t know any better I’d say we were the Meadow-Brook’s.”
“What do you mean by that?” asks Dr. Prussian
“You are controlling your wife like she is one of your staff members or skimpy nurses.” Roxanne sits on the edge of the bed and begins filing her nails, “What happened to the Byronic man that swept me away.”
“If you knew anything about the Meadow-Brook’s you’d know better than to compare us to them.” Dr. Prussian says
Across the street at the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook stands behind his desk in the Study. He pours himself a glass of whiskey and pulls out an envelope from his briefcase. He pulls out a series of papers from his briefcase as he touches the glass of whiskey to his lips.
“Well old friend,” he speaks softly to the glass, “It looks like you’ll be getting me through another sleepless period of my life.”
He downs it quickly and chokes back the coughing that erupts from his throat. He grabs a pen and signs the bottom of the paper quickly. He puts his hands flat on the desk and steadies himself. He takes the papers and walks to the Drawing Room where Mrs. Meadow-Brook listens to the evening news report on the radio. Miles walks to the radio and turns it off.
“I was listening to that.” Jane says despondently
“Here.” He hands her the papers
“What is this?” she asks
“It’s what you’ve been asking for.” Miles says, “For the past month we’ve stayed married in anger and resentment. I took away your freedom and you took away my hope.”
“You drew up the divorce papers?” Jane asks, “After everything you put me through? After the weeks of stress and abuse you finally decide you don’t want me as your slave anymore?”
“Dammit Jane,” Miles says turning away from her and looking out the window, “It was never about you.”
“Then what was it about?” asks Jane
“I knew that if you got your way and left me that this family would be over. We’d all be torn apart.” Miles says
“This is about Jessica isn’t it?” asks Jane
“I can’t believe she’s gone.” Miles says, “It’s been a month and I still can’t believe she’s gone.”
“It just doesn’t seem real since they never found her body.” Jane says
“I figured if I kept the family together that maybe one day Jessica would return to us.” Miles says, “Then the spite, infidelity, and hard feelings would be washed away.”
“Miles,” Jane says, “She isn’t coming back.”
“I know that.” Miles says crossly, “Why else do you think I finally drew up the papers.”
Jane silently looks down at the divorce papers in her hands.
“I’ve been acting like a fool.” Miles says, “Forcing you to stay with me all these weeks. It’s been causing you to hate me even more.”
“I don’t hate you,” Jane says, “I pity you.”
“I loved her so much.” Miles says choking back the tears
“She loved you too.” Jane says
“But all I’ve done is pushed her away.” Miles says, “My affair with Emily caused her to start using drugs. My affair with Emily pushed you away from me.”
“It’s so hard to say goodbye.” Jane says as she sets the divorce papers on the coffee table and sits down on the sofa.
“Jane,” Miles turns to her, “Can you forgive me for the wrong I’ve done?”
“Miles,” Jane sighs, “You’re emotional levels have been out of balance lately.”
“I know.” Miles says
“One minute you are angry and the next you are calm and at ease.” Jane says avoiding eye contact with him.
“I just try to find the hope to cling onto.” Miles says
Jane sighs and picks up the pen from the coffee table. She signs the divorce papers, “Well, I hope you find what you are looking for.”
In his cabin, Rusty Naylor watches the soup begin to bubble.
“Jane will love me.” Rusty says, “There is no way that she will ever find Miles worthy of being the man for her. Besides once I give her the one thing she is longing for she will have no reason but to love me.”
Rusty pours the soup in a bowl and turns to the frightened figure of Jessica Meadow-Brook, who is tied to a chair with a gag in her mouth.
“Yes my dear,” Rusty says to the frightened teenager, “Everyone in Hampshire thinks you are dead. They stopped looking for you a month ago.”
Jessica mumbles behind the gag.
“Time for you to eat.” Rusty says taking the gag from Jessica’s mouth and lifting a spoonful of soup to her lips.
Jessica sips the soup quickly.
“You sure are hungry.” Rusty comments
“This is the first meal I’ve had all day.” Jessica says
“I can’t risk going back and forth from the manor to my cabin.” Rusty says, “Someone will catch on.”
“Someone is bound to catch on anyway.” Jessica says, “My father is ruthless. He’ll kill you when he finds out what you’ve done by keeping me here.”
“I have a feeling your father won’t be in the picture for long.” Rusty says picking up a ball-headed Hammer from the sideboard.
“You aren’t going to hurt him are you?” asks Jessica
“I have my own leverage if he does anything stupid.” Rusty says, “Besides, if anything happens to me it happens to you. I’m the only one who knows you are here.”
In the Dining Room of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black sits at the head of the table busily looking over a notepad full of ideas for the renovation while she picks at her salad with her other hand.
“The Hall is first on the priority list.” Sylvia says, “It should be completed by the 17th.”
Scott and Jet mumble their responses.
“I don’t think it’s in good taste to destroy the interior of such an old house.” Madame Rose says putting her napkin down firmly on the table, “Countless people have visited Tudor Close since it was first built in 1826. The Hall is the one room that each and every had to walk through in order to attend benefits, balls, dinner parties, auctions, and other such events that took place here. The Hall holds all of those memories.”
“It is also the room that Hugh was murdered in.” Sylvia says bluntly
“Sylvia,” Madame Rose stands up and walks over to the sideboard and pours herself a glass of water, “Have I ever told you about Violetta Grunewald?”
“No,” Sylvia says closing her notebook, “And I really don’t think it necessary to bring up any more unsettling things that have taken place in this house.”
“Boys, would you like to hear the story?” Madame Rose turns to Jet and Scott
“I don’t suppose we’ll be able to avoid it.” Jet says sitting back and crossing his arms, “On with it.”
“Fraulein Grunewald was the governess that watched over my mother, Helena Black, and her younger brother Gideon.” Madame Rose says, “She was a treacherous woman. She was very strict and often times had arguments with my grandmother about how she was teaching my mother and uncle. One day my grandmother walked in on Fraulein Grunewald whipping Gideon with a leather belt. She told Gideon to leave her and Fraulein Grunewald alone. My mother told me that she was secretly watching from the Nursery as my grandmother strangled Fraulein Grunewald with the very belt she beat young Gideon with.”
“And you are telling us this why?” asks Sylvia after a moment of uneasy silence
“I’m telling you this because murder has taken place within the walls of this home for over a century.” Madame Rose says, “Leave the ghosts alone and leave their final resting place as it was when they walked these halls.”
“That’s a charming story, Claire.” Sylvia says standing up from the table, “I’m sure it will give the boys quite a bit to digest as the go to sleep tonight. You forgot to throw in the pleasant fact that Scott’s bedroom use to be the Nursery.”
“You aren’t serious?” Scott stammers in horror
“But I’m sure your lesson had meaning behind it.” Sylvia stares daggers at Madame Rose
“I have upset the boys.” Madame Rose puts her hand on Scott’s shoulder
“I don’t think it really matters.” Jet says, “Father died here, that Frenchman was murdered at the Boat House, and for years we thought Bryce died in the Hall. I don’t think adding a dead governess really adds to any surprise.”
“I suppose not,” Sylvia says, “Then it’s settled!”
“What’s settled?” asks Madame Rose
“Something that I’ve been debating in my mind ever since Hugh was killed.” Sylvia says, “Next year the boys will be going to boarding school.”
“Boarding school?” Scott says with a look of worry on his face
“Are you mad?” Jet shrieks
“This house holds all these unpleasant memories and murder does seem so common in this retched town.” Sylvia says, “It seems appropriate that you grow up like decent boys under the care of proper teachers and professors… rather than hearing stories about professors murdering people with pipes in the Library.”
“But when will we see you?” asks Scott in distress
“Christmas, Easter, for a few weeks during the summer when you are on holiday.” Sylvia says
“Sylvia are you sure that this is the best way to deal with this?” asks Madame Rose
“John Boddy will be moving back to Arlington Grange as soon as possible.” Sylvia says
“And me?” Madame Rose says, “Are you just going to kick me out as soon as possible too?”
“No, Claire,” Sylvia says, “You were Hugh’s sister. In respect of Hugh I will do what is right. You have until August to find a place to live.”
“I don’t have any money!” Madame Rose says
“Then I suggest you polish your crystal ball and reopen a psychic shop to support yourself.” Sylvia says
“Why are you punishing us?” asks Scott
“Darling, you were kidnapped by a sociopath who can’t decide whether she killed Hugh or was bribed to kill him.” Sylvia says, “Lord knows she poisoned your mind with her insufferable nonsense.”
“This is outrageous.” Jet storms off
“It’s settled.” Sylvia says sitting back down, “And I don’t want to hear another word about it.”
At Port Wells Penitentiary, Ms. Hawthorne lowers her voice, “I need you to wire over some money to me before I speak a word of any of this to the police.”
“How do you expect me to wire money over to you with me behind bars?” Sir Bradford Black asks
“I’m sure you have a few favors you can call in.” Ms. Hawthorne says, “You have three days.”
“Or else what?” Sir Bradford Black asks, “It’s not like you can do anything worse to me than what has already been done.”
“No,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “You are right, I can’t do anything worse. I would just leave you here to serve your life in prison sentence.”
Back in Hampshire at the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Commissioner Forest sits in his office drinks a cup of coffee as he reviews the murder case of Camille Silver. Inspector Winfield Brown enters his office.
“You wanted to see me?” asks Inspector Brown
“I want to know about your involvement with Thallo Green.” Commissioner Forest stares at Brown with unwavering eyes
“I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.” Inspector Brown says
“You went to see him earlier today.” Commissioner Forest says, “Why?”
“I’m trying to find a flaw in his system.” Inspector Brown says, “We both know he’s a notorious gangster without a hint of evidence that we could use against him.”
“I would find that believable, “Commissioner Forest says, “If it wasn’t for the large amount of money that was deposited into your account today.”
“What is your point?” asks Inspector Brown
“You are taking bribes from him.” Commissioner Forest says
“I assure you, Commissioner, I am not taking bribes from a mobster.” Inspector Brown says, “An uncle of mine passed away and left me with a nice pension.”
“You are aware that we will track down where the money came from.” Commissioner Forest says
“Commissioner,” Inspector Brown says, “You are only allowed to trace money flows if you are under the impression that I’ve done something illegal. I assure you nothing I’ve done has been done unethically. I would save your resources on finding evidence against Mr. Green for the many crimes he has committed.”
Back at the Prussian Home, Dr. Prussian and Mrs. Prussian lay silently in bed.
“Isn’t it awkward?” Dr. Prussian says
“Darling,” Roxanne says, “We’ve been married for quite a while. I’m used to it being awkward.”
“No,” Dr. Prussian says with a furrowed brow, “I mean about Professor Plum living across the street.”
“Oh,” Roxanne says, “Not really. Our flirting and love making was in the past. I don’t think of him that way anymore.”
“Was he exciting?” asks Dr. Prussian
“Well he’s a good deal younger than you.” Roxanne says, “So there was a hint of excitement in there. But you are just as fun. The vacations, cruises, and presents that you buy excite me.”
“Yes but am I exciting?” Dr. Prussian stresses
“I know that I love you very much.” Roxanne sits up and rolls over towards him, “Without a solid man like you I don’t think I would have landed on my own two feet.”
“I’m sure you would have found a way.” Dr. Prussian says, “You are a very strong woman. I’m glad I married someone like you.”
Roxanne lays silent next to her husband as she thinks about her encouter with Professor Plum earlier that night.
-FLASHBACK- EARLIER THAT NIGHT-
Professor Plum and Mrs. Roxanne Prussian are in a passionate love-making embrace in the Cloak Room of the A La Carte Restaurant.
“Roxanne,” Professor Plum kisses her fervently, “It’s been so long since I’ve been with a woman as exciting as you.”
“You think I’m exciting?” Roxanne chuckles as she clutches her arms tightly around Professor Plum’s neck.
“By far the most beautiful and exciting woman I’ve ever laid eyes upon.” Professor Plum says pulling her closer as they fall deeper into the fur coats hanging from the coat rack.
“Gregory,” Roxanne says breathlessly as they separate and she readjusts her blouse and skirt
“Will you marry me?” asks Professor Plum
“Gregory?” Roxanne is taken back
“Leave that old fool and be my bride.” Professor Plum says
“Gregory I love Rex.” Roxanne says
“Quite clearly,” Professor Plum says sarcastically, “After what we’ve been waiting to do for years…”
“No.” Roxanne says
“Think about it, Roxanne.” Professor Plum says
“Darling,” Roxanne takes his hand and kisses him on the lips, “What we did tonight is the start of a beautiful affair. But unlike most, no one will find out and no one will get hurt!”
She leads him out of the Cloak Room by the hand. Colonel Mustard watches the two emerge from the Cloak Room from the bar where Dr. Prussian orders drinks with his back turned to them.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
In the Gate House of Tudor Close, Monsieur Brunette, Miss Peach, and Mr. Boddy all huddle in the darkness.
“Thank you John,” Monsieur Brunette says, “After all these years I am finally close to getting my revenge against this retched family… no offense to you of course.”
“None taken,” Mr. Boddy says, “I rebuked the name Black when Bradford wanted it bestowed upon me.”
“If you hate this family so much why did you work with Bradford?” Miss Peach asks in confusion
“Because in working with Bradford I have begun the long process of tearing this family apart from one another.” Monsieur Brunette says, “Scott was already removed from the picture and will once again be removed by Prince Azure.”
“All I want is to find out more about Helena.” Miss Peach says, “She was my biological mother. Everyone acts like she was a criminal.”
“So this is where we come together.” Mr. Boddy says, “We each have a common enemy keeping us from what we want. We want answers that are being denied, vengeance for the wrongs committed against us, and ultimately for this family to fall.”
“Who is the person standing in our way?” Miss Peach asks with anger in her face
“Sylvia Black.” Mr. Boddy says
In her Bedroom at Tudor Close, Sylvia Black sits at her vanity combing her hair with an ornate brush.
“Will you need anything else tonight?” asks Mr. Ash from the doorway
“You may retire for the night.” Sylvia dismisses the butler
She stands up and walks over to her bedroom window which is open. She allows the breeze to blow off the lake and rustle her nicely combed hair. She doesn’t hear the footsteps behind her as a figure enters the room. Sylvia gazes out at the cloudless night sky at the full moon above her. The silver moonbeams sparkle in her big brown eyes. She smiles at the stars above her as the figure draws nearer.
“Hugh,” Sylvia closes her eyes, “I know that you would agree with me that getting our sons away from a murder-filled town is what is best.”
The figure grabs Sylvia by the shoulder and turns her around with force. Sylvia’s eyes widen in fear and shock.
-Monday, May 9, 1949 –
-Night-
The door opens with a quick motion as Rusty Naylor enters his house, which is nothing more than an old cabin across the Lake from Tudor Close. The interior is less than appealing: a tool bench to one side, a dining table in the center, a dusty flat mattress in an old metal bedframe to the left side.
“She’ll grow to love me.” Rusty says confidently, “I know that she is hurting in that ungodly relationship with Miles.”
He walks over to the kitchen cabinet and takes out a bottle of scotch. He pours himself a shot and downs it quickly.
“Once she knows the lengths I’m willing to go to make her mine…” Rusty turns on the stove and puts a kettle of broth over the flame.
Mrs. Peacock’s Rolls Royce drives into the driveway of the Peacock Residence. Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard step out of the car and walk hand in hand to the front door of Mrs. Peacock’s house.
“It was a wonderful night,” Mrs. Peacock says turning to him at the door.
“If only I didn’t choke on the bloody olive.” Colonel Mustard says blushing
Mrs. Peacock laughs, “It made me realize how much I care for you. I don’t know what I would do if anything happened to you.”
In the Gate House of Tudor Close, Mr. George Biddle and Miss Frances LeBlanc enter.
“Cobwebs!” Miss LeBlanc says as she shakes one off of her hand
“Was this really necessary to meet here?” asks Mr. Biddle with a different tone on his voice.
“You should be happy I saved your life.” Mr. Boddy says stepping out of the shadows of the Gate House.
“Yes,” Mr. Biddle says rubbing his shoulder, “If it wasn’t for Sylvia’s bad aim the bullet would have killed me.”
Mr. Biddle removes his moustache, glasses, and wig to reveal himself as Monsieur Alphonse Brunette.
“Whatever grudge you hold against this family, could run neck and neck with the grudges that I hold.” Mr. Boddy says
“And I wanted to thank you both for allowing me to get closer to this family.” Miss LeBlanc says taking off her glasses and long brown wig revealing herself as Georgia Peach.
At his home on Ceil Drive, Dr. Rex Prussian stands in front of the long mirror in the corner of the Master Bedroom. He unties his tie and looks at his tired eyes and wrinkles. Roxanne comes out of the Master Bathroom in a long dark blue night robe.
“You’ve sobered down a bit.” Dr. Prussian says with discontentment on his voice
“I wasn’t drunk.” Roxanne says, “That was my natural flair.”
“Well you might want to tone it down a little.” Dr. Prussian says, “People were staring.”
“Wow,” Roxanne says sarcastically, “If I didn’t know any better I’d say we were the Meadow-Brook’s.”
“What do you mean by that?” asks Dr. Prussian
“You are controlling your wife like she is one of your staff members or skimpy nurses.” Roxanne sits on the edge of the bed and begins filing her nails, “What happened to the Byronic man that swept me away.”
“If you knew anything about the Meadow-Brook’s you’d know better than to compare us to them.” Dr. Prussian says
Across the street at the Meadow-Brook Home, Miles Meadow-Brook stands behind his desk in the Study. He pours himself a glass of whiskey and pulls out an envelope from his briefcase. He pulls out a series of papers from his briefcase as he touches the glass of whiskey to his lips.
“Well old friend,” he speaks softly to the glass, “It looks like you’ll be getting me through another sleepless period of my life.”
He downs it quickly and chokes back the coughing that erupts from his throat. He grabs a pen and signs the bottom of the paper quickly. He puts his hands flat on the desk and steadies himself. He takes the papers and walks to the Drawing Room where Mrs. Meadow-Brook listens to the evening news report on the radio. Miles walks to the radio and turns it off.
“I was listening to that.” Jane says despondently
“Here.” He hands her the papers
“What is this?” she asks
“It’s what you’ve been asking for.” Miles says, “For the past month we’ve stayed married in anger and resentment. I took away your freedom and you took away my hope.”
“You drew up the divorce papers?” Jane asks, “After everything you put me through? After the weeks of stress and abuse you finally decide you don’t want me as your slave anymore?”
“Dammit Jane,” Miles says turning away from her and looking out the window, “It was never about you.”
“Then what was it about?” asks Jane
“I knew that if you got your way and left me that this family would be over. We’d all be torn apart.” Miles says
“This is about Jessica isn’t it?” asks Jane
“I can’t believe she’s gone.” Miles says, “It’s been a month and I still can’t believe she’s gone.”
“It just doesn’t seem real since they never found her body.” Jane says
“I figured if I kept the family together that maybe one day Jessica would return to us.” Miles says, “Then the spite, infidelity, and hard feelings would be washed away.”
“Miles,” Jane says, “She isn’t coming back.”
“I know that.” Miles says crossly, “Why else do you think I finally drew up the papers.”
Jane silently looks down at the divorce papers in her hands.
“I’ve been acting like a fool.” Miles says, “Forcing you to stay with me all these weeks. It’s been causing you to hate me even more.”
“I don’t hate you,” Jane says, “I pity you.”
“I loved her so much.” Miles says choking back the tears
“She loved you too.” Jane says
“But all I’ve done is pushed her away.” Miles says, “My affair with Emily caused her to start using drugs. My affair with Emily pushed you away from me.”
“It’s so hard to say goodbye.” Jane says as she sets the divorce papers on the coffee table and sits down on the sofa.
“Jane,” Miles turns to her, “Can you forgive me for the wrong I’ve done?”
“Miles,” Jane sighs, “You’re emotional levels have been out of balance lately.”
“I know.” Miles says
“One minute you are angry and the next you are calm and at ease.” Jane says avoiding eye contact with him.
“I just try to find the hope to cling onto.” Miles says
Jane sighs and picks up the pen from the coffee table. She signs the divorce papers, “Well, I hope you find what you are looking for.”
In his cabin, Rusty Naylor watches the soup begin to bubble.
“Jane will love me.” Rusty says, “There is no way that she will ever find Miles worthy of being the man for her. Besides once I give her the one thing she is longing for she will have no reason but to love me.”
Rusty pours the soup in a bowl and turns to the frightened figure of Jessica Meadow-Brook, who is tied to a chair with a gag in her mouth.
“Yes my dear,” Rusty says to the frightened teenager, “Everyone in Hampshire thinks you are dead. They stopped looking for you a month ago.”
Jessica mumbles behind the gag.
“Time for you to eat.” Rusty says taking the gag from Jessica’s mouth and lifting a spoonful of soup to her lips.
Jessica sips the soup quickly.
“You sure are hungry.” Rusty comments
“This is the first meal I’ve had all day.” Jessica says
“I can’t risk going back and forth from the manor to my cabin.” Rusty says, “Someone will catch on.”
“Someone is bound to catch on anyway.” Jessica says, “My father is ruthless. He’ll kill you when he finds out what you’ve done by keeping me here.”
“I have a feeling your father won’t be in the picture for long.” Rusty says picking up a ball-headed Hammer from the sideboard.
“You aren’t going to hurt him are you?” asks Jessica
“I have my own leverage if he does anything stupid.” Rusty says, “Besides, if anything happens to me it happens to you. I’m the only one who knows you are here.”
In the Dining Room of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black sits at the head of the table busily looking over a notepad full of ideas for the renovation while she picks at her salad with her other hand.
“The Hall is first on the priority list.” Sylvia says, “It should be completed by the 17th.”
Scott and Jet mumble their responses.
“I don’t think it’s in good taste to destroy the interior of such an old house.” Madame Rose says putting her napkin down firmly on the table, “Countless people have visited Tudor Close since it was first built in 1826. The Hall is the one room that each and every had to walk through in order to attend benefits, balls, dinner parties, auctions, and other such events that took place here. The Hall holds all of those memories.”
“It is also the room that Hugh was murdered in.” Sylvia says bluntly
“Sylvia,” Madame Rose stands up and walks over to the sideboard and pours herself a glass of water, “Have I ever told you about Violetta Grunewald?”
“No,” Sylvia says closing her notebook, “And I really don’t think it necessary to bring up any more unsettling things that have taken place in this house.”
“Boys, would you like to hear the story?” Madame Rose turns to Jet and Scott
“I don’t suppose we’ll be able to avoid it.” Jet says sitting back and crossing his arms, “On with it.”
“Fraulein Grunewald was the governess that watched over my mother, Helena Black, and her younger brother Gideon.” Madame Rose says, “She was a treacherous woman. She was very strict and often times had arguments with my grandmother about how she was teaching my mother and uncle. One day my grandmother walked in on Fraulein Grunewald whipping Gideon with a leather belt. She told Gideon to leave her and Fraulein Grunewald alone. My mother told me that she was secretly watching from the Nursery as my grandmother strangled Fraulein Grunewald with the very belt she beat young Gideon with.”
“And you are telling us this why?” asks Sylvia after a moment of uneasy silence
“I’m telling you this because murder has taken place within the walls of this home for over a century.” Madame Rose says, “Leave the ghosts alone and leave their final resting place as it was when they walked these halls.”
“That’s a charming story, Claire.” Sylvia says standing up from the table, “I’m sure it will give the boys quite a bit to digest as the go to sleep tonight. You forgot to throw in the pleasant fact that Scott’s bedroom use to be the Nursery.”
“You aren’t serious?” Scott stammers in horror
“But I’m sure your lesson had meaning behind it.” Sylvia stares daggers at Madame Rose
“I have upset the boys.” Madame Rose puts her hand on Scott’s shoulder
“I don’t think it really matters.” Jet says, “Father died here, that Frenchman was murdered at the Boat House, and for years we thought Bryce died in the Hall. I don’t think adding a dead governess really adds to any surprise.”
“I suppose not,” Sylvia says, “Then it’s settled!”
“What’s settled?” asks Madame Rose
“Something that I’ve been debating in my mind ever since Hugh was killed.” Sylvia says, “Next year the boys will be going to boarding school.”
“Boarding school?” Scott says with a look of worry on his face
“Are you mad?” Jet shrieks
“This house holds all these unpleasant memories and murder does seem so common in this retched town.” Sylvia says, “It seems appropriate that you grow up like decent boys under the care of proper teachers and professors… rather than hearing stories about professors murdering people with pipes in the Library.”
“But when will we see you?” asks Scott in distress
“Christmas, Easter, for a few weeks during the summer when you are on holiday.” Sylvia says
“Sylvia are you sure that this is the best way to deal with this?” asks Madame Rose
“John Boddy will be moving back to Arlington Grange as soon as possible.” Sylvia says
“And me?” Madame Rose says, “Are you just going to kick me out as soon as possible too?”
“No, Claire,” Sylvia says, “You were Hugh’s sister. In respect of Hugh I will do what is right. You have until August to find a place to live.”
“I don’t have any money!” Madame Rose says
“Then I suggest you polish your crystal ball and reopen a psychic shop to support yourself.” Sylvia says
“Why are you punishing us?” asks Scott
“Darling, you were kidnapped by a sociopath who can’t decide whether she killed Hugh or was bribed to kill him.” Sylvia says, “Lord knows she poisoned your mind with her insufferable nonsense.”
“This is outrageous.” Jet storms off
“It’s settled.” Sylvia says sitting back down, “And I don’t want to hear another word about it.”
At Port Wells Penitentiary, Ms. Hawthorne lowers her voice, “I need you to wire over some money to me before I speak a word of any of this to the police.”
“How do you expect me to wire money over to you with me behind bars?” Sir Bradford Black asks
“I’m sure you have a few favors you can call in.” Ms. Hawthorne says, “You have three days.”
“Or else what?” Sir Bradford Black asks, “It’s not like you can do anything worse to me than what has already been done.”
“No,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “You are right, I can’t do anything worse. I would just leave you here to serve your life in prison sentence.”
Back in Hampshire at the Mayfield Divisional Police Department, Commissioner Forest sits in his office drinks a cup of coffee as he reviews the murder case of Camille Silver. Inspector Winfield Brown enters his office.
“You wanted to see me?” asks Inspector Brown
“I want to know about your involvement with Thallo Green.” Commissioner Forest stares at Brown with unwavering eyes
“I’m afraid I don’t know what you mean.” Inspector Brown says
“You went to see him earlier today.” Commissioner Forest says, “Why?”
“I’m trying to find a flaw in his system.” Inspector Brown says, “We both know he’s a notorious gangster without a hint of evidence that we could use against him.”
“I would find that believable, “Commissioner Forest says, “If it wasn’t for the large amount of money that was deposited into your account today.”
“What is your point?” asks Inspector Brown
“You are taking bribes from him.” Commissioner Forest says
“I assure you, Commissioner, I am not taking bribes from a mobster.” Inspector Brown says, “An uncle of mine passed away and left me with a nice pension.”
“You are aware that we will track down where the money came from.” Commissioner Forest says
“Commissioner,” Inspector Brown says, “You are only allowed to trace money flows if you are under the impression that I’ve done something illegal. I assure you nothing I’ve done has been done unethically. I would save your resources on finding evidence against Mr. Green for the many crimes he has committed.”
Back at the Prussian Home, Dr. Prussian and Mrs. Prussian lay silently in bed.
“Isn’t it awkward?” Dr. Prussian says
“Darling,” Roxanne says, “We’ve been married for quite a while. I’m used to it being awkward.”
“No,” Dr. Prussian says with a furrowed brow, “I mean about Professor Plum living across the street.”
“Oh,” Roxanne says, “Not really. Our flirting and love making was in the past. I don’t think of him that way anymore.”
“Was he exciting?” asks Dr. Prussian
“Well he’s a good deal younger than you.” Roxanne says, “So there was a hint of excitement in there. But you are just as fun. The vacations, cruises, and presents that you buy excite me.”
“Yes but am I exciting?” Dr. Prussian stresses
“I know that I love you very much.” Roxanne sits up and rolls over towards him, “Without a solid man like you I don’t think I would have landed on my own two feet.”
“I’m sure you would have found a way.” Dr. Prussian says, “You are a very strong woman. I’m glad I married someone like you.”
Roxanne lays silent next to her husband as she thinks about her encouter with Professor Plum earlier that night.
-FLASHBACK- EARLIER THAT NIGHT-
Professor Plum and Mrs. Roxanne Prussian are in a passionate love-making embrace in the Cloak Room of the A La Carte Restaurant.
“Roxanne,” Professor Plum kisses her fervently, “It’s been so long since I’ve been with a woman as exciting as you.”
“You think I’m exciting?” Roxanne chuckles as she clutches her arms tightly around Professor Plum’s neck.
“By far the most beautiful and exciting woman I’ve ever laid eyes upon.” Professor Plum says pulling her closer as they fall deeper into the fur coats hanging from the coat rack.
“Gregory,” Roxanne says breathlessly as they separate and she readjusts her blouse and skirt
“Will you marry me?” asks Professor Plum
“Gregory?” Roxanne is taken back
“Leave that old fool and be my bride.” Professor Plum says
“Gregory I love Rex.” Roxanne says
“Quite clearly,” Professor Plum says sarcastically, “After what we’ve been waiting to do for years…”
“No.” Roxanne says
“Think about it, Roxanne.” Professor Plum says
“Darling,” Roxanne takes his hand and kisses him on the lips, “What we did tonight is the start of a beautiful affair. But unlike most, no one will find out and no one will get hurt!”
She leads him out of the Cloak Room by the hand. Colonel Mustard watches the two emerge from the Cloak Room from the bar where Dr. Prussian orders drinks with his back turned to them.
-END OF FLASHBACK-
In the Gate House of Tudor Close, Monsieur Brunette, Miss Peach, and Mr. Boddy all huddle in the darkness.
“Thank you John,” Monsieur Brunette says, “After all these years I am finally close to getting my revenge against this retched family… no offense to you of course.”
“None taken,” Mr. Boddy says, “I rebuked the name Black when Bradford wanted it bestowed upon me.”
“If you hate this family so much why did you work with Bradford?” Miss Peach asks in confusion
“Because in working with Bradford I have begun the long process of tearing this family apart from one another.” Monsieur Brunette says, “Scott was already removed from the picture and will once again be removed by Prince Azure.”
“All I want is to find out more about Helena.” Miss Peach says, “She was my biological mother. Everyone acts like she was a criminal.”
“So this is where we come together.” Mr. Boddy says, “We each have a common enemy keeping us from what we want. We want answers that are being denied, vengeance for the wrongs committed against us, and ultimately for this family to fall.”
“Who is the person standing in our way?” Miss Peach asks with anger in her face
“Sylvia Black.” Mr. Boddy says
In her Bedroom at Tudor Close, Sylvia Black sits at her vanity combing her hair with an ornate brush.
“Will you need anything else tonight?” asks Mr. Ash from the doorway
“You may retire for the night.” Sylvia dismisses the butler
She stands up and walks over to her bedroom window which is open. She allows the breeze to blow off the lake and rustle her nicely combed hair. She doesn’t hear the footsteps behind her as a figure enters the room. Sylvia gazes out at the cloudless night sky at the full moon above her. The silver moonbeams sparkle in her big brown eyes. She smiles at the stars above her as the figure draws nearer.
“Hugh,” Sylvia closes her eyes, “I know that you would agree with me that getting our sons away from a murder-filled town is what is best.”
The figure grabs Sylvia by the shoulder and turns her around with force. Sylvia’s eyes widen in fear and shock.