Episode 46 – “The Price of Secrecy”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Mrs. Peacock and Colonel Mustard discus their past marriages. Colonel Mustard shares about his first wife Karen who was always living in an imaginary fantasy from her loneliness that she drove herself insane and despite psychiatric treatment she shot herself. Mr. Ash confronts Sylvia about her drug usage and makes her dump the morphine bottle and empty the syringe. Sylvia does and then proceeds to talk to her son who is distraught over the death of his school friend Olivia Pearl, who was obviously murdered by Mr. Green’s henchmen. Ms. Hawthorne pays Bradford Black another visit and claims that she will not step forward as a witness unless he pays her. At the sanitarium Sergeant Gray meets Colonel Mustard’s thought to be dead wife Karen Mustard…
-Wednesday, May 11, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
Miss Cynthia Scarlet climbs the deteriorated stepping stones that lead up to Lena Hawthorne’s house. She reaches the top to see Ms. Hawthorne standing on her front porch holding her binoculars to her eyes. She’s looking in the direction of Tudor Close.
“Ms. Hawthorne,” Miss Scarlet says approaching her
“Oh, Cynthia,” Ms. Hawthorne says startled, “How is your mother doing?”
“Step mother,” Miss Scarlet corrects, “And I’m here because of her.”
“Oh dear,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “I hope she’s alright.”
“Why didn’t you cash the cheque that she gave you?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Oh I decided it wasn’t necessary.” Ms. Hawthorne says turning to the flowering box and slipping on a pair of gardening gloves.
“You decided to be a decent human being and wish to leave my family alone?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She seemed so cruel to me,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “I decided to sell her secret to someone who seems a bit nicer. In fact he’s coming today… unless you want to buy it from me instead?”
Sylvia Black sits on the Terrace with Scott. They are both being served tea by Mr. Ash. Rusty Naylor is cleaning out the Swimming Pool.
“It’s a nice day.” Sylvia says, “The pool should be clean enough to swim in by tomorrow.”
“Why did you keep me home from school?” asks Scott
“I thought you needed some time with your mother,” Sylvia says, “Besides, it’s a stressful world out there and you are just a little boy. Mr. Ash I think we should pull him out of school and just teach him what he needs to know here at the mansion.”
“First boarding school, now this,” Mr. Ash mutters to himself
“Why?” asks Scott
“I just think it would be beneficial,” Sylvia says, “My mother never sent me to school and look how I turned out.”
“Yes, take a long look,” Mr. Ash mutters again
“Thank you, Mr. Ash,” Sylvia says, “Your muttering is much appreciated but not needed. Why don’t you see if you can help Mrs. White.”
“I’m not getting paid enough for this job,” Mr. Ash mutters again
“So what do you think?” asks Sylvia, “Wouldn’t you like to spend time at home learning what you need to succeed in life? I doubt you’ll need advanced arithmetic. You know the basics don’t you?”
“Well,” Scott says, “I’ve learned addition, subtraction, multiplication, and div…”
“Yes, yes, you know the basics.” Sylvia says cutting him off, “The only time you’ll use any of that is when dealing with money. As luck would have it you are rich enough to have an accountant. Hooray you’ve passed arithmetic!”
“Mother…” Scott looks at her with doubt
“What do you know about geography?” asks Sylvia
“I can name all the countries in Europe.” Scott says
“Fantastic!” Sylvia praises him, “You only need to know where your Swiss bank account is and where it is safe to go on vacation.”
“I’m not sure you really know what you are doing,” Scott says, “Perhaps I should just ride out the rest of my years in school like Jet.”
“Jet can fill you in on anything you really need.” Sylvia says, “Now on to Literature.”
“Oh god,” Scott puts his hand to his forehead
In the Master Bedroom of the Prussian House, Roxanne Prussian lays silently in bed next to Professor Plum.
“We can’t keep doing this.” Roxanne says, “One day Rex is going to come home early and then he’ll put you back in a coma.”
“Don’t worry about your husband.” Professor Plum says, “I know a nurse who’s keeping a close eye on him.”
“You told one of his nurses about us?” asks Roxanne
“Of course not!” Professor Plum says, “She actually thinks I’m interested in her. Florence Primrose is her name.”
“She’s the nurse who was sleeping with Hugh Black.” Roxanne says
“Hugh?” Professor Plum says, “I always thought he was the perfect family man.”
“Everyone thinks I’m the perfect housewife,” Roxanne says
“I’m not sure about that,” Professor Plum says
“What?” Roxanne stands up and puts on her bathrobe, “You don’t think I have class and poise?”
“There’s a reason that you and your husband aren’t invited to all the parties.” Professor Plum says
“Okay,” Roxanne admits, “I tend to over drink when I’m at a party, but I will have you know that both me and Rex were invited to Sylvia Black’s garden party this Saturday!”
“So was I,” Professor Plum bites his lip, “Won’t that be awkward?”
“No more awkward than having sex in the cloak room of a five star restaurant while my husband was saving a man from choking.” Roxanne says
In Port Wells, in the Periwinkle Building, Mr. Green looks out his office windows.
“Forty-seventh floor,” he says, “No matter how long I’ve been here I’ll never get used to this height.”
He looks at the boats in the harbor as sunlight bounces off the choppy waves.
“The water is so mesmerizing from up here.” Mr. Green says
“Every time I look at that water I think about the man who drown in it yesterday morning.” Mr. Egret says from the armchair in front of Mr. Green’s desk.
Mr. Green walks behind his desk and takes a seat.
“You wanted to have a word with me,” Mr. Green says, “I’m guessing it’s about your disappointment in me for murdering an entire family.”
“I’m going to be a father in nine months,” Mr. Egret says
“Congratulations,” Mr. Green says, “Do you want me to be the godfather?”
“No,” Mr. Egret says, “I want you to take over everything.”
“Everything?” Mr. Green is shocked
“I’m going to raise my child in America.” Mr. Egret says, “I’m leaving behind my work in your hands.”
“So you are quitting?” Mr. Green asks, “You know that doesn’t fly over well with the boss.”
“I’ve already talked with Mr. O’Range.” Mr. Egret says, “He told me that he understands completely and I told him the lengths you are willing to go to protect this business.”
“Was he as disgusted as you were.” Mr. Green asks
“He was impressed that you had it in you to do what needed to be done,” Mr. Egret says solemnly, “From this point on you are getting my pension, my workers, and you are officially permitted to talk to Mr. O’Range personally without going through a middle man.”
Mr. Green is silent as Mr. Egret hands him a piece of paper with Mr. O’Range’s contact information on it.
“As of this moment you are Mr. O’Range’s second hand man.” Mr. Egret says, “You should be expecting a call sometime today.”
“I can’t believe he is letting you just leave,” Mr. Green says, “No one can just get up and leave.”
“I know,” Mr. Egret says, “I’ll watch my back. I’ll disappear, change my name, and live in hiding until my baby is born, then I’ll be gone for good.”
“You used to be so tough,” Mr. Green says, “Nothing would intimidate you.”
“I’ve changed.” Mr. Egret says
“I can tell,” Mr. Green says, “Make sure to watch your back. If O’Range is as vicious and heartless as you have always told me he is…”
“I’m sure he has a hit man after me already.” Mr. Egret says as he exits Mr. Green’s office. Mr. Green sighs as he takes it all in. The phone on his desk rings.
“Thallo Green,” he answers
“I take it you are expecting this call?” a rough voice responds
“Had you called ten minutes ago I wouldn’t know what you were talking about.” Mr. Green says, “How can I help you, Mr. O’Range?”
“I like your eagerness.” Mr. O’Range says, “I have a job for you.”
“How can I be of service?” asks Mr. Green
“Kill Dante Egret,” Mr. O’Range says
Back in Ms. Hawthorne’s Garden, Miss Scarlet stands confused. Ms. Hawthorne takes off her gardening gloves and puts the binoculars to her eyes again and stares off towards Ceil Drive. She lets the binoculars fall on the cord around her neck and chuckles.
“It looks like the Professor is paying Mrs. Prussian another visit.” Ms. Hawthorne says
“So you take my step mother’s money and you just decide that you aren’t going to cash it because you are planning on selling the secret that she paid for to someone else?” Miss Scarlet is infuriated
“Who says it can’t be an auction?” asks Ms. Hawthorne, “Maybe you can offer more than the man coming by today to hear all the details.”
“You are playing with fire.” Miss Scarlet says
“Maybe,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “But it didn’t stop me from turning down Bradford Black’s bargain.”
“You went to Bradford?” Miss Scarlet asks, “How many people in Hampshire know about what you saw?”
“Bradford and I, the man that’s coming by later today, and you,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “Oh and there is of course your mother and the woman she murdered.”
“What happens when you decide to tell someone else?” Miss Scarlet says, “Are you just going to keep collecting cheques until you ruin everyone’s lives?”
“I didn’t cash it,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “If you are so concerned about the money than let me go get the cheque.” Ms. Hawthorne turns towards her house, “It’s right on my dressing table. You can have it back. I was planning on sending it to your mother within the week.”
Miss Scarlet grabs the cord of the binoculars and tightens it around the old woman’s throat. Ms. Hawthorne coughs and gags as the cord pulls tight against her windpipe. Miss Scarlet twists the cord fiercely around the old woman’s throat. Ms. Hawthorne kicks and grabs Miss Scarlet’s hair as she sinks to her knees. Miss Scarlet lowers Ms. Hawthorne down as she begins to fade away. Ms. Hawthorne’s grip on Miss Scarlet’s hair becomes looser and looser until the woman’s hand drops limply to her side. Miss Scarlet grinds her teeth as she squeezes the cord even tighter. Ms. Hawthorne’s face is a sickly color of purple and red from the lack of blood circulation. Miss Scarlet finally lets go of the cords and lets Ms. Hawthorne fall into the grass in a dead heap. She lifts up the old woman and pushes her down the steep, crooked stepping stones. Ms. Hawthorne lands about halfway down the stepping stone stairway. Miss Scarlet looks down at the body sprawled in a heap.
“My, my,” a man’s voice says from behind Miss Scarlet.
She turns around quickly to see Miles Meadow-Brook.
“I was just going to see what nonsense story the old bat had to say about Penelope,” Mr. Meadow-Brooks says, “I’m guessing by your reaction whatever she knew was true.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Scarlet begins to panic, “I can explain…”
“No need,” Miles says, “People do crazy things to protect the people they love. Trust me; I’ve done some crazy things.”
“She blackmailed my step mother,” Miss Scarlet says, “My step mother paid, but she kept on telling others about her secret.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook shakes his head in disgust, “What has happened to the trust between the blackmailer and the person blackmailed. I wouldn’t never tell a living soul after I’ve accepted money for a secret. I mean, I wouldn’t want to end up like Ms. Hawthorne, now would I?”
“Thank you for understanding,” Miss Scarlet says as she turns to leave
“Now hold on a second,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m not giving your something for nothing.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t know what more I can do?”
“Blackmail my dear,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I am a man of money. We all have done wrong. My wrongs have been confronted. Your wrongs will be confronted as well… unless you find a price to keep me quiet. I already told you that I wouldn’t dare to expose you after taking money. I thought you would take the hint.”
“Haven’t I been through enough?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Yes, that’s why I’m willing to make a bargain with you.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “How about we forget about money. How about you pay me a little visit sometime? I get awfully lonely since Jane and I split ways. Just think of it as a little company… and other nighttime activies.”
“You are disgusting,” Miss Scarlet says
“I didn’t murder a crazy little old lady.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m just a man who likes the company of a young lady.”
Miss Scarlet pulls her sweater closed and crosses her arms over her chest.
“Think about it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says patting her on the bottom as he passes by.
At Tudor Close, Jet Black enters the front door carrying his book bag. Scott comes from the Library.
“You need to talk to mum,” Scott says
“Why?” asks Jet, “What did she do now?”
“She wants to pull me out of school and teach me everything I need to know in the confinement of this house.” Scott says
“She’s just acting over protective based on everything that has happened,” Jet assures him as he crosses the Hall and heads towards the Kitchen
“How long will it be before it passes?” asks Scott
“Just try not to get kidnapped again,” Jet says, “Then everything will return back to normal.”
In the Kitchen of Tudor Close, Mrs. White sits at the Kitchen table looking through her recipe book. Jet enters the Kitchen,
“What do you think I should prepare for lunch at the garden party?” asks Mrs. White, “Ham or beef?”
“Give them a variety.” Jet says grabbing an apple from the fruit bowl
“Of course,” Mrs. White says, “I believe the Pearls are Jewish. I guess I would have to have something Kosher available. Though I’m not exactly sure how they can tell with all the cheeses there are.”
“I wouldn’t worry too much about that,” Jet says, “There’s a rumor that the Pearls aren’t around anymore.”
“They moved?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Jet says, “They’ve been missing.”
“Oh dear,” Mrs. White says, “Well I’ll still leave some out in case they turn up.”
Jet slices the apple with a sharp fruit knife.
“How was school?” asks Mrs. White
“Bothersome,” Jet says, “Thank god this is the last week before summer.”
“They can’t be piling that much on you with only two days left.” Mrs. White says
“We have to turn in a report tomorrow on the growing crimes in England and ways that they can be prevented.” Jet says
“How much have you written?” asks Mrs. White
“Step 1: Don’t live in Hampshire.” Jet says
“That would be a good start.” Mrs. White smirks
“I’ll probably fail.” Jet says, “Not that it matters once my trust fund kicks in… assuming mother hasn’t spent it all.”
“No I don’t think it’s been touched.” Mrs. White says, “I remember she did a lot to protect it when Bradford tried claiming the mansion as his own.”
“Well,” Jet says, “I’m off to work on this report.”
“Take breaks.” Mrs. White says as the boy leaves the room, “When did I become the nanny?”
Miles Meadow-Brook enters Colonel Mustard’s House and closes the door.
“Colonel,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “The door was unlocked. I tried the bell.”
“Oh sorry old chap,” Colonel Mustard calls from the Kitchen, “I was listening to the horse race. Make yourself comfortable in the parlor.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook looks around the clutter filled parlor and walks into the center of it. There are photo albums and journals all around.
“Sorry about the mess,” Colonel Mustard says, “Penelope and I were reminiscing the past last night.”
“Ah,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “You two are quite the item I hear.”
“I hope so!” Colonel Mustard says, “Can I get you anything to drink? Coffee? Tea? Scotch?”
“No, no,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says eyeing Colonel Mustard’s typewriter, “I just came by to inform you that I went up to talk to Ms. Hawthorne like you asked.”
“And?” asks Colonel Mustard
“She wasn’t there.” Mr. Meadow-Brook lies
“Damn,” Colonel Mustard says entering the parlor with a cup of tea, “I wanted to put Penelope’s mind at ease. How much do I owe you for the trip up there?”
“Well I never did get to talk to her,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “So I’d say you can pay me after I do talk to her.”
“Ah well I’m sorry I sent you out of your way.” Colonel Mustard says
“It wasn’t an entire loss,” Mr. Meadow-Brook mutters
“What’s that?” asks Colonel Mustard as he takes a sip of tea
“Oh nothing,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says admiring the typewriter, “This is quite a beauty.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard stands up, “I’m writing my memoir on it.”
Colonel Mustard looks at the half typed up paper in the typewriter with a hint of panic in his eyes. He quickly pulls it out and sets it aside out of Mr. Meadow-Brook’s reach. He puts a blank piece of paper in the typewriter.
“Try it out.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh,” Mr. Meadow-Brook exclaims, “It moves quite smoothly. Mine needs to be oil and needs a new ribbon.”
“Well I could take a look at it and see what I can do.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh, I wouldn’t want to bother you with that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Though I would like to bother you for some tea. I changed my mind, tea sounds like a good idea.”
“Of course,” Colonel Mustard says, “Black Tea?”
“Yes please?” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Two sugar.”
“Comign right away.” Colonel Mustard scurries off into the Kitchen.
Mr. Meadow-Brook picks up the piece of paper that Colonel Mustard eagerly pulled out of the typewriter.
“Any honey?” Colonel Mustard calls from the Kitchen
“No,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Sugar is all.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook quickly reads the paper.
‘And after agreeing to buy Prussian a drink for saving my life I realized that mine wasn’t the only excitement happening. Professor Plum and Prussian’s wife scurried out of the Cloak Room where they were no doubt hiding their tawdry affair. What luck for them that I had choked…’
Mr. Meadow-Brook smirks and places the paper back where Colonel Mustard had placed it. Mr. Meadow-Brook turns to a random photo album and sits on the sofa. Colonel Mustard enters the room with a steaming cup of tea.
“Here you are,” Colonel Mustard hands it to him
“Oh thank you,” Mr. Meadow-Brook takes the cup and sets the photo album back down on the coffee table, “I went to the Farmer’s Market in Blackwell the other day and saw Mrs. Prussian there. Small world isn’t it.”
“Oh yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “How are their hunting dogs?”
“The Prussian’s?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks, “I wasn’t aware they had any.”
“No the Farmer’s Market.” Colonel Mustard says, “They normally sell hunting dogs this time of year.”
“Oh I didn’t notice any.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I was a bit distracted.”
“By what?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I may have been mistaken,” Mr. Meadow-Brook fishes, “But I could have sworn Mrs. Prussian was with Mrs. Peacock’s brother.”
“Plum and Prussian?” Colonel Mustard becomes nervous, “No, that would be absurd.”
“I thought so too.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I mean she’s a happily married woman.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard says distantly
“Well I’ll get out of your hair.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“You haven’t finished your tea,” Colonel Mustard says
“I just remembered I have an appointment with a client.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Well drop by some other time.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh I will,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’ll see you at Sylvia’s garden party on Saturday.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “I suppose you will.”
Miles Meadow-Brook exits Colonel Mustard’s house and walks down the street.
“I witness a murder and find out another secret all in one day.” Mr. Meadow-Brook smirks as he walks towards the end of Ceil Drive, “And the best part is that most of the people I’ve got dirt on are going to be at the party this Saturday. It’s time for the blackmailing to commence.”
-Wednesday, May 11, 1949 –
-Afternoon-
Miss Cynthia Scarlet climbs the deteriorated stepping stones that lead up to Lena Hawthorne’s house. She reaches the top to see Ms. Hawthorne standing on her front porch holding her binoculars to her eyes. She’s looking in the direction of Tudor Close.
“Ms. Hawthorne,” Miss Scarlet says approaching her
“Oh, Cynthia,” Ms. Hawthorne says startled, “How is your mother doing?”
“Step mother,” Miss Scarlet corrects, “And I’m here because of her.”
“Oh dear,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “I hope she’s alright.”
“Why didn’t you cash the cheque that she gave you?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Oh I decided it wasn’t necessary.” Ms. Hawthorne says turning to the flowering box and slipping on a pair of gardening gloves.
“You decided to be a decent human being and wish to leave my family alone?” asks Miss Scarlet
“She seemed so cruel to me,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “I decided to sell her secret to someone who seems a bit nicer. In fact he’s coming today… unless you want to buy it from me instead?”
Sylvia Black sits on the Terrace with Scott. They are both being served tea by Mr. Ash. Rusty Naylor is cleaning out the Swimming Pool.
“It’s a nice day.” Sylvia says, “The pool should be clean enough to swim in by tomorrow.”
“Why did you keep me home from school?” asks Scott
“I thought you needed some time with your mother,” Sylvia says, “Besides, it’s a stressful world out there and you are just a little boy. Mr. Ash I think we should pull him out of school and just teach him what he needs to know here at the mansion.”
“First boarding school, now this,” Mr. Ash mutters to himself
“Why?” asks Scott
“I just think it would be beneficial,” Sylvia says, “My mother never sent me to school and look how I turned out.”
“Yes, take a long look,” Mr. Ash mutters again
“Thank you, Mr. Ash,” Sylvia says, “Your muttering is much appreciated but not needed. Why don’t you see if you can help Mrs. White.”
“I’m not getting paid enough for this job,” Mr. Ash mutters again
“So what do you think?” asks Sylvia, “Wouldn’t you like to spend time at home learning what you need to succeed in life? I doubt you’ll need advanced arithmetic. You know the basics don’t you?”
“Well,” Scott says, “I’ve learned addition, subtraction, multiplication, and div…”
“Yes, yes, you know the basics.” Sylvia says cutting him off, “The only time you’ll use any of that is when dealing with money. As luck would have it you are rich enough to have an accountant. Hooray you’ve passed arithmetic!”
“Mother…” Scott looks at her with doubt
“What do you know about geography?” asks Sylvia
“I can name all the countries in Europe.” Scott says
“Fantastic!” Sylvia praises him, “You only need to know where your Swiss bank account is and where it is safe to go on vacation.”
“I’m not sure you really know what you are doing,” Scott says, “Perhaps I should just ride out the rest of my years in school like Jet.”
“Jet can fill you in on anything you really need.” Sylvia says, “Now on to Literature.”
“Oh god,” Scott puts his hand to his forehead
In the Master Bedroom of the Prussian House, Roxanne Prussian lays silently in bed next to Professor Plum.
“We can’t keep doing this.” Roxanne says, “One day Rex is going to come home early and then he’ll put you back in a coma.”
“Don’t worry about your husband.” Professor Plum says, “I know a nurse who’s keeping a close eye on him.”
“You told one of his nurses about us?” asks Roxanne
“Of course not!” Professor Plum says, “She actually thinks I’m interested in her. Florence Primrose is her name.”
“She’s the nurse who was sleeping with Hugh Black.” Roxanne says
“Hugh?” Professor Plum says, “I always thought he was the perfect family man.”
“Everyone thinks I’m the perfect housewife,” Roxanne says
“I’m not sure about that,” Professor Plum says
“What?” Roxanne stands up and puts on her bathrobe, “You don’t think I have class and poise?”
“There’s a reason that you and your husband aren’t invited to all the parties.” Professor Plum says
“Okay,” Roxanne admits, “I tend to over drink when I’m at a party, but I will have you know that both me and Rex were invited to Sylvia Black’s garden party this Saturday!”
“So was I,” Professor Plum bites his lip, “Won’t that be awkward?”
“No more awkward than having sex in the cloak room of a five star restaurant while my husband was saving a man from choking.” Roxanne says
In Port Wells, in the Periwinkle Building, Mr. Green looks out his office windows.
“Forty-seventh floor,” he says, “No matter how long I’ve been here I’ll never get used to this height.”
He looks at the boats in the harbor as sunlight bounces off the choppy waves.
“The water is so mesmerizing from up here.” Mr. Green says
“Every time I look at that water I think about the man who drown in it yesterday morning.” Mr. Egret says from the armchair in front of Mr. Green’s desk.
Mr. Green walks behind his desk and takes a seat.
“You wanted to have a word with me,” Mr. Green says, “I’m guessing it’s about your disappointment in me for murdering an entire family.”
“I’m going to be a father in nine months,” Mr. Egret says
“Congratulations,” Mr. Green says, “Do you want me to be the godfather?”
“No,” Mr. Egret says, “I want you to take over everything.”
“Everything?” Mr. Green is shocked
“I’m going to raise my child in America.” Mr. Egret says, “I’m leaving behind my work in your hands.”
“So you are quitting?” Mr. Green asks, “You know that doesn’t fly over well with the boss.”
“I’ve already talked with Mr. O’Range.” Mr. Egret says, “He told me that he understands completely and I told him the lengths you are willing to go to protect this business.”
“Was he as disgusted as you were.” Mr. Green asks
“He was impressed that you had it in you to do what needed to be done,” Mr. Egret says solemnly, “From this point on you are getting my pension, my workers, and you are officially permitted to talk to Mr. O’Range personally without going through a middle man.”
Mr. Green is silent as Mr. Egret hands him a piece of paper with Mr. O’Range’s contact information on it.
“As of this moment you are Mr. O’Range’s second hand man.” Mr. Egret says, “You should be expecting a call sometime today.”
“I can’t believe he is letting you just leave,” Mr. Green says, “No one can just get up and leave.”
“I know,” Mr. Egret says, “I’ll watch my back. I’ll disappear, change my name, and live in hiding until my baby is born, then I’ll be gone for good.”
“You used to be so tough,” Mr. Green says, “Nothing would intimidate you.”
“I’ve changed.” Mr. Egret says
“I can tell,” Mr. Green says, “Make sure to watch your back. If O’Range is as vicious and heartless as you have always told me he is…”
“I’m sure he has a hit man after me already.” Mr. Egret says as he exits Mr. Green’s office. Mr. Green sighs as he takes it all in. The phone on his desk rings.
“Thallo Green,” he answers
“I take it you are expecting this call?” a rough voice responds
“Had you called ten minutes ago I wouldn’t know what you were talking about.” Mr. Green says, “How can I help you, Mr. O’Range?”
“I like your eagerness.” Mr. O’Range says, “I have a job for you.”
“How can I be of service?” asks Mr. Green
“Kill Dante Egret,” Mr. O’Range says
Back in Ms. Hawthorne’s Garden, Miss Scarlet stands confused. Ms. Hawthorne takes off her gardening gloves and puts the binoculars to her eyes again and stares off towards Ceil Drive. She lets the binoculars fall on the cord around her neck and chuckles.
“It looks like the Professor is paying Mrs. Prussian another visit.” Ms. Hawthorne says
“So you take my step mother’s money and you just decide that you aren’t going to cash it because you are planning on selling the secret that she paid for to someone else?” Miss Scarlet is infuriated
“Who says it can’t be an auction?” asks Ms. Hawthorne, “Maybe you can offer more than the man coming by today to hear all the details.”
“You are playing with fire.” Miss Scarlet says
“Maybe,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “But it didn’t stop me from turning down Bradford Black’s bargain.”
“You went to Bradford?” Miss Scarlet asks, “How many people in Hampshire know about what you saw?”
“Bradford and I, the man that’s coming by later today, and you,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “Oh and there is of course your mother and the woman she murdered.”
“What happens when you decide to tell someone else?” Miss Scarlet says, “Are you just going to keep collecting cheques until you ruin everyone’s lives?”
“I didn’t cash it,” Ms. Hawthorne says, “If you are so concerned about the money than let me go get the cheque.” Ms. Hawthorne turns towards her house, “It’s right on my dressing table. You can have it back. I was planning on sending it to your mother within the week.”
Miss Scarlet grabs the cord of the binoculars and tightens it around the old woman’s throat. Ms. Hawthorne coughs and gags as the cord pulls tight against her windpipe. Miss Scarlet twists the cord fiercely around the old woman’s throat. Ms. Hawthorne kicks and grabs Miss Scarlet’s hair as she sinks to her knees. Miss Scarlet lowers Ms. Hawthorne down as she begins to fade away. Ms. Hawthorne’s grip on Miss Scarlet’s hair becomes looser and looser until the woman’s hand drops limply to her side. Miss Scarlet grinds her teeth as she squeezes the cord even tighter. Ms. Hawthorne’s face is a sickly color of purple and red from the lack of blood circulation. Miss Scarlet finally lets go of the cords and lets Ms. Hawthorne fall into the grass in a dead heap. She lifts up the old woman and pushes her down the steep, crooked stepping stones. Ms. Hawthorne lands about halfway down the stepping stone stairway. Miss Scarlet looks down at the body sprawled in a heap.
“My, my,” a man’s voice says from behind Miss Scarlet.
She turns around quickly to see Miles Meadow-Brook.
“I was just going to see what nonsense story the old bat had to say about Penelope,” Mr. Meadow-Brooks says, “I’m guessing by your reaction whatever she knew was true.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Scarlet begins to panic, “I can explain…”
“No need,” Miles says, “People do crazy things to protect the people they love. Trust me; I’ve done some crazy things.”
“She blackmailed my step mother,” Miss Scarlet says, “My step mother paid, but she kept on telling others about her secret.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook shakes his head in disgust, “What has happened to the trust between the blackmailer and the person blackmailed. I wouldn’t never tell a living soul after I’ve accepted money for a secret. I mean, I wouldn’t want to end up like Ms. Hawthorne, now would I?”
“Thank you for understanding,” Miss Scarlet says as she turns to leave
“Now hold on a second,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m not giving your something for nothing.”
“Mr. Meadow-Brook,” Miss Scarlet says, “I don’t know what more I can do?”
“Blackmail my dear,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I am a man of money. We all have done wrong. My wrongs have been confronted. Your wrongs will be confronted as well… unless you find a price to keep me quiet. I already told you that I wouldn’t dare to expose you after taking money. I thought you would take the hint.”
“Haven’t I been through enough?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Yes, that’s why I’m willing to make a bargain with you.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “How about we forget about money. How about you pay me a little visit sometime? I get awfully lonely since Jane and I split ways. Just think of it as a little company… and other nighttime activies.”
“You are disgusting,” Miss Scarlet says
“I didn’t murder a crazy little old lady.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’m just a man who likes the company of a young lady.”
Miss Scarlet pulls her sweater closed and crosses her arms over her chest.
“Think about it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says patting her on the bottom as he passes by.
At Tudor Close, Jet Black enters the front door carrying his book bag. Scott comes from the Library.
“You need to talk to mum,” Scott says
“Why?” asks Jet, “What did she do now?”
“She wants to pull me out of school and teach me everything I need to know in the confinement of this house.” Scott says
“She’s just acting over protective based on everything that has happened,” Jet assures him as he crosses the Hall and heads towards the Kitchen
“How long will it be before it passes?” asks Scott
“Just try not to get kidnapped again,” Jet says, “Then everything will return back to normal.”
In the Kitchen of Tudor Close, Mrs. White sits at the Kitchen table looking through her recipe book. Jet enters the Kitchen,
“What do you think I should prepare for lunch at the garden party?” asks Mrs. White, “Ham or beef?”
“Give them a variety.” Jet says grabbing an apple from the fruit bowl
“Of course,” Mrs. White says, “I believe the Pearls are Jewish. I guess I would have to have something Kosher available. Though I’m not exactly sure how they can tell with all the cheeses there are.”
“I wouldn’t worry too much about that,” Jet says, “There’s a rumor that the Pearls aren’t around anymore.”
“They moved?” asks Mrs. White
“No,” Jet says, “They’ve been missing.”
“Oh dear,” Mrs. White says, “Well I’ll still leave some out in case they turn up.”
Jet slices the apple with a sharp fruit knife.
“How was school?” asks Mrs. White
“Bothersome,” Jet says, “Thank god this is the last week before summer.”
“They can’t be piling that much on you with only two days left.” Mrs. White says
“We have to turn in a report tomorrow on the growing crimes in England and ways that they can be prevented.” Jet says
“How much have you written?” asks Mrs. White
“Step 1: Don’t live in Hampshire.” Jet says
“That would be a good start.” Mrs. White smirks
“I’ll probably fail.” Jet says, “Not that it matters once my trust fund kicks in… assuming mother hasn’t spent it all.”
“No I don’t think it’s been touched.” Mrs. White says, “I remember she did a lot to protect it when Bradford tried claiming the mansion as his own.”
“Well,” Jet says, “I’m off to work on this report.”
“Take breaks.” Mrs. White says as the boy leaves the room, “When did I become the nanny?”
Miles Meadow-Brook enters Colonel Mustard’s House and closes the door.
“Colonel,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “The door was unlocked. I tried the bell.”
“Oh sorry old chap,” Colonel Mustard calls from the Kitchen, “I was listening to the horse race. Make yourself comfortable in the parlor.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook looks around the clutter filled parlor and walks into the center of it. There are photo albums and journals all around.
“Sorry about the mess,” Colonel Mustard says, “Penelope and I were reminiscing the past last night.”
“Ah,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “You two are quite the item I hear.”
“I hope so!” Colonel Mustard says, “Can I get you anything to drink? Coffee? Tea? Scotch?”
“No, no,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says eyeing Colonel Mustard’s typewriter, “I just came by to inform you that I went up to talk to Ms. Hawthorne like you asked.”
“And?” asks Colonel Mustard
“She wasn’t there.” Mr. Meadow-Brook lies
“Damn,” Colonel Mustard says entering the parlor with a cup of tea, “I wanted to put Penelope’s mind at ease. How much do I owe you for the trip up there?”
“Well I never did get to talk to her,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “So I’d say you can pay me after I do talk to her.”
“Ah well I’m sorry I sent you out of your way.” Colonel Mustard says
“It wasn’t an entire loss,” Mr. Meadow-Brook mutters
“What’s that?” asks Colonel Mustard as he takes a sip of tea
“Oh nothing,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says admiring the typewriter, “This is quite a beauty.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard stands up, “I’m writing my memoir on it.”
Colonel Mustard looks at the half typed up paper in the typewriter with a hint of panic in his eyes. He quickly pulls it out and sets it aside out of Mr. Meadow-Brook’s reach. He puts a blank piece of paper in the typewriter.
“Try it out.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh,” Mr. Meadow-Brook exclaims, “It moves quite smoothly. Mine needs to be oil and needs a new ribbon.”
“Well I could take a look at it and see what I can do.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh, I wouldn’t want to bother you with that.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Though I would like to bother you for some tea. I changed my mind, tea sounds like a good idea.”
“Of course,” Colonel Mustard says, “Black Tea?”
“Yes please?” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Two sugar.”
“Comign right away.” Colonel Mustard scurries off into the Kitchen.
Mr. Meadow-Brook picks up the piece of paper that Colonel Mustard eagerly pulled out of the typewriter.
“Any honey?” Colonel Mustard calls from the Kitchen
“No,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Sugar is all.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook quickly reads the paper.
‘And after agreeing to buy Prussian a drink for saving my life I realized that mine wasn’t the only excitement happening. Professor Plum and Prussian’s wife scurried out of the Cloak Room where they were no doubt hiding their tawdry affair. What luck for them that I had choked…’
Mr. Meadow-Brook smirks and places the paper back where Colonel Mustard had placed it. Mr. Meadow-Brook turns to a random photo album and sits on the sofa. Colonel Mustard enters the room with a steaming cup of tea.
“Here you are,” Colonel Mustard hands it to him
“Oh thank you,” Mr. Meadow-Brook takes the cup and sets the photo album back down on the coffee table, “I went to the Farmer’s Market in Blackwell the other day and saw Mrs. Prussian there. Small world isn’t it.”
“Oh yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “How are their hunting dogs?”
“The Prussian’s?” Mr. Meadow-Brook asks, “I wasn’t aware they had any.”
“No the Farmer’s Market.” Colonel Mustard says, “They normally sell hunting dogs this time of year.”
“Oh I didn’t notice any.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I was a bit distracted.”
“By what?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I may have been mistaken,” Mr. Meadow-Brook fishes, “But I could have sworn Mrs. Prussian was with Mrs. Peacock’s brother.”
“Plum and Prussian?” Colonel Mustard becomes nervous, “No, that would be absurd.”
“I thought so too.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I mean she’s a happily married woman.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard says distantly
“Well I’ll get out of your hair.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“You haven’t finished your tea,” Colonel Mustard says
“I just remembered I have an appointment with a client.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says
“Well drop by some other time.” Colonel Mustard says
“Oh I will,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “I’ll see you at Sylvia’s garden party on Saturday.”
“Yes,” Colonel Mustard says, “I suppose you will.”
Miles Meadow-Brook exits Colonel Mustard’s house and walks down the street.
“I witness a murder and find out another secret all in one day.” Mr. Meadow-Brook smirks as he walks towards the end of Ceil Drive, “And the best part is that most of the people I’ve got dirt on are going to be at the party this Saturday. It’s time for the blackmailing to commence.”