Episode 47 – “Preparations”
Previously on the Memoirs of Mayfield: Miss Scarlet confronts Ms. Hawthorne who hasn’t cashed the cheque that Mrs. Peacock gave her. Hawthorne explains she’s selling Mrs. Peacock’s secret to the highest bidder. Miss Scarlet brutally murders the old woman, only to be witnessed by Mr. Meadow-Brook. Mr. Meadow-Brook tells Miss Scarlet that he’ll stay quite if she sleeps with him. Mr. Meadow-Brook later finds out about Professor Plum and Mrs. Prussian’s affair after reading an excerpt from Colonel Mustard’s memoir. Mrs. White begins preparing the menu for the garden party. Sylvia Black spontaneously decides to pull Scott out of school and teach him everything he needs to know at home in order to keep him away from the cruel world. Scott asks his brother for help with Sylvia’s foolish decision. Jet tells him to just let it play it’s course…
-Saturday, May 14, 1949 –
-Morning-
Sylvia Black stands in her bedroom in front of the mirror wearing a black and white polka-dot sundress. She is wearing a large sunhat, dark sunglasses, black gloves, and shiny black heels. Scott Black knocks on the door frame as he enters the room.
“You look so handsome,” Sylvia says coming over to Scott and fixing the color of his white shirt.
“My vest is too tight.” Scott pulls at the heavy cotton material
“You can take it off after lunch.” Sylvia says, “I want the guests to see you in it. You match Jet’s outfit perfectly.”
Jet comes into the doorway, “When are people going to start arriving.”
“Not for a while.” Sylvia says, “I still need to check on some last minute details. Why don’t you boys go see if John and your Aunt Claire are ready.”
Jet and Scott exit the Bedroom as Sylvia turns back to herself in the mirror. She is alarmed at the reflection in the mirror as she sees Hugh standing behind her. She quickly turns around to see no one is there.
“The caterers have arrived.” Mr. Ash says from the doorway
“You startled me,” Sylvia says
“I can see that.” Mr. Ash says
“Are the caterers setting up in the Gazebo?” asks Sylvia
“Yes,” Mr. Ash says, “But we have one little problem.”
Out in the Gazebo, numerous caterers set up round tables and a long white buffet-styled table. Mrs. White walks down the path from the Garden towards the Gazebo.
“What in blazes do you think you are doing?” Mrs. White barks at the head caterer
“Ma’am,” he offers his hand for her to shake, “You must be Sylvia Black’s maid.”
“I am her maid and her cook and her housekeeper and I’m supposed to be catering this garden party!” Mrs. White says obviously flushed
“No,” the head caterer hands her his clip board, “See there,” he points, “Sylvia Black ordered the Mediterranean lunch for thirty.”
“There has to be some mistake.” Mrs. White says
Sylvia Black and Mr. Ash come from the mansion and head towards the Gazebo.
“Here they are now,” Mrs. White says, “I’m sure this will be straightened out.”
“Blanche,” Sylvia says, “I’m so sorry. I thought Mr. Ash would have told you.”
“With all the preparations it slipped my mind.” Mr. Ash says
“I’ve been working on this menu for the past week!” Mrs. White says
“And I promise you we will use it during our midsummer garden party!” Sylvia Black says
“The whole damn thing is ruined!” Mrs. White shouts
“No,” Sylvia says, “You should change. I want you to be a guest here.”
“Every time someone comes to one of your parties it’s my cooking they eat!” Mrs. White shouts, “That’s the highlight of these parties! I get complimented on my pastries and cheese spreads.”
“Well,” Sylvia says trying to be gentle, “Maybe this time you’ll find the highlight of this party is being one of the pampered guests.”
Mrs. White’s mouth is agape, “I have nothing in common with those spoiled rotten brats born with gold spoons in their mouths and a silver one shoved up their…”
“Maybe you should rest in the Library,” Sylvia covers Mrs. White’s mouth and leads her away from the caterers.
In her bedroom on Ceil Drive, Mrs. Penelope Peacock stands in front of the long mirror in the corner and adjusts her light blue skirt. From the doorway, Miss Scarlet enters wearing a red sundress.
“You look lovely,” Mrs. Peacock smiles as she goes into her closet
“I need to talk to you about Ms. Hawthorne.” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh?” Mrs. Peacock says
“I went to see her on Wednesday to see why she didn’t cash your cheque.” Miss Scarlet says
“Did she give you an answer?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She told me she was planning on selling you secret to the highest bidder.” Miss Scarlet says
“Why didn’t you come and tell me this sooner?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“You’ve been so busy with Colonel Mustard I never actually had a chance to.” Miss Scarlet says
“We need to go talk to her before the garden party.” Mrs. Peacock says coming out of her closet with a blue hat decorated with peacock feathers.
“There is no need.” Miss Scarlet says holding up the newspaper.
“This is the obituary,” Mrs. Peacock looks up at her, “What did you do?”
“Read.” Miss Scarlet smiles
“Lena Hawthorne was found dead Friday morning after having fallen down the dangerous hill that leads up to her old home.” Mrs. Peacock says
“She was there for two days before they found her.” Miss Scarlet says, “Two whole days and no one so much as cared to check in on her.”
“You killed her?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“I did what needed to be done.” Miss Scarlet says going over to Mrs. Peacock’s dressing table and picking up two earrings, “Can I wear these?”
Mrs. Peacock nods, “You did it quietly I hope.”
“I strangled her with those damned binoculars that she spies on everyone with.” Miss Scarlet says, “It felt poetic… and it was the first thing I grabbed hold of.”
“And the police didn’t notice the lesions on her neck?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“It blended with the wrinkles and extra fat around her neck.” Miss Scarlet says
“You are horrible.” Mrs. Peacock shakes her head
“Remind me again,” Miss Scarlet says putting in the earrings, “How many people did you murder last month?”
“We all make mistakes.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Yes,” Miss Scarlet says, “Speaking of mistakes, are you sure the colonel is the right man for you?”
“I am,” Mrs. Peacock says
“Could he be husband number four?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Oh stop it!” Mrs. Peacock smacks her playfully on the arm, “I’m not sure what I would say if Algernon proposed.”
“Say yes so I can have this house all to myself.” Miss Scarlet says
“What about my brother?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“You can have custody of him.” Miss Scarlet says as she heads out into the Hall.
At the Oakwood Residence, Lady Elizabeth Oakwood coughs profusely as she walks down the stairs. In the Drawing Room, Percival Oakwood brings the breakfast tray into the room. Lord Edward Oakwood is sitting in his wheelchair near the bridge table.
“Isn’t Mrs. Crabtree working?” Lady Oakwood asks
“I’m helping her out.” Percival says, “Coffee?”
“Of course,” Lady Oakwood snaps, “I always drink coffee. Why should today be any different?”
“Father?” Percival offer as he pours coffee for his mother
“You know your father can’t drink coffee,” Lady Oakwood says, “You should know that by now.” She takes a sip, “This is cold. Go fetch a hot pot!”
Percival puts the silver coffee pot back on the breakfast tray and carries it out of the Drawing Room.
“Are we going to Tudor Close today?” asks Lord Oakwood
“Of course we are.” Lady Oakwood says, “How would it look if we didn’t go?”
“Well you don’t exactly seem to be feeling well.” Lord Oakwood says
“I’m feeling fine,” Lady Oakwood says
“You’ve been feeling nauseous and dizzy for the past month,” Lord Oakwood says, “I don’t think you should go to this party.”
“I’m fine,” Lady Oakwood says, “I know my body more than anyone else does!”
Lord Oakwood is silent. From the Hallway, Percival Oakwood listens and sets the breakfast tray on a side table. He withdraws a bottle of arsenic from his pocket. He adds two drops to the coffee and then secures the bottle and slips it back into his pocket. He enters the Drawing Room with the new pot of coffee.
At the Mustard Home, in the Hallway, Colonel Mustard stands at a mail table holding a small, black drawstring pouch in his hand. He opens the bag and removes a silver ring with two small diamonds on each side of a large blue diamond. He remembers the day that he acquired the diamond ring.
-FLASHBACK- 13 Years Ago-
Colonel Mustard stands armed with a rifle with five other armed men. They are in the grassy plains of Africa with a large empty truck. Two jeeps pull up with crates in the back.
“Colonel,” a man steps out and addresses him, “We’re sorry it took so long, we had word of a safari tour coming through. We timed it so that we would miss them.”
“These are all the boxes of ivory?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Enough here to fill the Nile.” The man says
“Hugh Black will be happy with our promptness.” Colonel Mustard says, “He wasn’t expecting this shipment to be delivered into my hands until Monday.”
“All the more reason to get it safely back to England.” The man says, “I assume that you have someone who can smuggle this through?”
“Hugh Black found a man by the name of O’Range.” Colonel Mustard says, “He has smuggled ivory, drugs, weapons, and women for years.”
“Colonel,” another man calls out
Colonel Mustard turns to see a caravan approaching. There are guards on each side of the caravan.
“The royal insignia.” The man gasps
“Do we take action?” asks a man from Colonel Mustard’s armed group
“We shoot any witnesses.” another man says
“Colonel,” the first man says, “We are waiting for your order.”
“Take down the guards first,” Colonel Mustard says, “Then the passengers.”
“All of them?” asks the second man
“All of them.” Colonel Mustard nods
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“The ring of the dead princess,” Colonel Mustard says softly to himself, “Despite the fear and sorrow this ring has seen, it still retains the beauty from the day it was cut and set.”
He sighs enters the Living Room and looks at the stack of journals from which he is taking excerpts from for his memoir.
“Where is 1936?” Colonel Mustard becomes flustered as he can’t pinpoint where one is, “Oh it has to be here somewhere.”
“Ahem,” a man’s voice is heard from the doorway. Colonel Mustard turns his head to see Miles Meadow-Brook standing near the front door, “I knocked and knocked. Your hearing must be fading.”
Colonel Mustard sees a black book in the man’s grip.
“What have you got there?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Well I read that page you tried to hide the typewriter.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “You are a very good writer. In fact you surpassed my judgment of a military man’s life story. I was so moved and enlightened by your writing I figured you wouldn’t mind if I read a little more.”
“Why in blazes would you steal one of my journals?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I didn’t steal it,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sets it on the coffee table, “I borrowed it. Now it is safely returned to you.”
Colonel Mustard grabs the book and holds it close to his chest
“If you didn’t want people reading them,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “They shouldn’t be scattered about your living room.”
“How much of it did you read?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Cover to cover.” Mr. Meadow-Brook smiles, “I found it especially intriguing when you and five men singlehandedly took down a royal caravan. Blood was spilt, the bodies were left for the jackals, and the ivory was returned safely to a smuggler and embezzler of whom I was very close friends to – Hugh Black!”
Colonel Mustard is silent
“Don’t worry,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Mr. Green and I have taken over where Hugh left off. Who’s to say we couldn’t use an extra pair of hands. I mean after all, you don’t mind getting your hands dirty. Let’s say you give me some information on anyone else you have written about in exchange for my silence.”
“No,” Colonel Mustard says, “I’m starting fresh with the woman I love. My life of crime is over.”
“It’s about to come right back up and bite you on the backside if you don’t hand over that information. Think about it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook walks towards the front door, “A few little secrets of the other Hampshire residents or you end up talking to Mrs. Peacock through jail bars. I doubt you want to end up back in jail.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook leaves Colonel Mustard’s house. Colonel Mustard angrily tosses the journal against the wall.
Across the Street in the Green Home, Mr. Thallo Green opens his briefcase. Inside is a roll of money and a gun. He smiles and closes the suitcase.
“Where can one find Dante Egret?” asks Mr. Green
-FLASHBACK- 3 Days Ago-
“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.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green thinks for a moment. He then picks up the telephone and dials a number.
“Tudor Close, this is Mr. Ash,” the voice answers
“Mr. Ash, it’s Thallo Green.” Mr. Green says
“I’m sorry, Mr. Green,” Mr. Ash says, “Sylvia specifically asked that you not come to the garden party today.”
“I need to talk to her,” Mr. Green says, “I won’t have to show up if you can get her on the phone.”
“Sylvia Black is busy preparing for her guests.” Mr. Ash says, “She doesn’t have time to answer the phone.”
“Then warn her that I’ll be by later today.” Mr. Green says
“What exactly does this pertain to?” asks Mr. Ash with annoyance on his voice
“Hugh Black’s New York Penthouse.” Mr. Green says, “I need the keys to it because I have a feeling that someone by the name of Dante Egret will be breaking in and hiding out in it for a while.”
“I’ll warn Sylvia that you are coming.” Mr. Ash says
At the Gate House of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black smiles excitedly.
“Lord Grey!” she greets the elderly man carrying a cello case. There is a much younger, Asian beauty on his arm. She is carrying a violin case.
“Sylvia!” Lord Grey hugs her tightly, “It’s been so long. I’m so sorry I didn’t make it to Hugh’s Funeral. I was in Shanghai.”
“I see you brought home a souvenier,” Sylvia eyes the young Asian woman with hint of concern.
“Oh no,” Lord Grey chuckles, “It’s nothing like that. This is Lady Lavender. She is a musical prodigy.”
“Hello,” Lady Lavender says, “It’s nice to meet you.”
“Lady,” Sylvia says, “How did someone of your fragile age gain such a heavy title?”
“She was married to Lord Lavender,” Lord Grey says, “Until he passed away six months ago.”
“Us widows must stick together.” Lady Lavender says touching Sylvia’s arm with sympathy.
“Why don’t you go set up in the Garden.” Lord Grey says, “The other violin and viola players will be here soon.”
Lady Lavender nods and takes Lord Grey’s cello case.
“She’s a sweetheart isn’t she?” asks Lord Grey
“She’s twelve.” Sylvia says
“No she isn’t!” Lord Grey says, “She’s sixteen. They marry young with high expectations in the East.”
“Please tell me you are just a fatherly figure showing her the beautiful English countryside,” Sylvia sighs
“I think we should start rehearsing.” Lord Grey says, “You did want a fully prepared string quartet.”
Lord Grey walks off in the direction of the garden. Sylvia Black stands watching him as caterers carry chairs to the Gazebo.
Across the Lake in his Cabin, Rusty Naylor binds Jessica’s hands tighter.
“I can’t have any stunts from you today, miss,” Rusty says to the bound and gagged girl, “Today is the day your father will be out of the picture. By tomorrow you will be taken to a safe place in Arlington. I will then inform your mother that I saw someone resembling you there. By the time they find you, you will have starved to death.”
Jessica begins to cry.
“Your mother will love me for finding you,” Rusty says, “If only we’d found you sooner.”
Jessica moans and tries to pull herself out of her confinement
“Don’t struggle,” Rusty says, “You’ll only make the ropes tighter. Now I have to go make my appearance at this garden party.”
At the Prussian Home, Roxanne Prussian sits in the Breakfast Room drinking orange juice. Dr. Rex Prussian enters with the paper.
“Did you hear that Lena Hawthorne died?” Dr. Prussian asks
“Who’s she?” asks Roxanne
“She’s the woman who lives in that old house on the hill.” Dr. Prussian says, “I did surgery on her husband several years ago. He never recovered.”
“Oh, right,” Roxanne says, “How did she die?”
“She took a nasty fall down the pathway leading down the hill.” Dr. Prussian says
“Well,” Roxanne says, “I suppose I should start figuring out what I’m going to wear to Tudor Close.”
“We aren’t going.” Dr. Prussian says
“What?” Roxanne is shocked, “Why not?”
“Because you tend to make a scene at these sorts of gatherings.” Dr. Prussian says, “I mean you acted like a drunk at the A La Carte last week.”
“I won’t have anything to drink.” Roxanne says
“It’s out of the question.” Dr. Prussian says, “Besides, I’m going to the country club with several coworkers.”
“Please,” Roxanne begs, “Rex it’s been so long since we have been invited to anything hosted by the Blacks.”
“I will not condone it.” Dr. Prussian says, “I will not have you making a spectacle of yourself again.”
On the Grounds of Tudor Close, Jet Black stands on the Terrace looking into the Garden where he watches Lady Lavender tuning her violin. He walks down the terrace steps and over to her.
“Hello,” he says shyly
“Hello,” she smiles at him
“I’m Jet,” he introduces himself, “My mother is throwing this elaborate afternoon gala.”
“Su Sian,” Lady Lavender says
“I haven’t seen you around Hampshire before.” Jet says
“No,” Lady Lavender answers, “I’m from Shanghai. I came with Alfred.” She waves delicately to Lord Grey who stands across the garden. He smiles and waves back.
“So you play the violin?” Jet asks pointing at the violin in her hands
“That’s a silly question,” Lady Lavender says striking the bow to the strings and giving a long smooth note
“I… well, my mother plays too,” Jet says nervously, “I didn’t realize there was going to be live music.”
“We play while the other guests arrive.” Lady Lavender says, “Then we join them in eating, talking, and other activities.”
“Do you play tennis?” asks Jet
“I’ve never tried.” Lady Lavender says
“I could show you after lunch.” Jet says eagerly
“I would enjoy learning.” Lady Lavender bats her eyes at him
Jet smiles at her as Lord Grey comes over.
“I see you’ve met my beauty lotus flower.” Lord Grey says putting his grip on Lady Lavender’s shoulder, “She traveled with me all the way from Shanghai. There were some lonely nights during the train ride through the Mediterranean I remember.”
Jet avoids eye contact with Lord Grey.
“Move along boy,” Lord Grey says sternly, “There’s nothing to see here.”
Lady Lavender frowns as Jet reluctantly walks towards the Gazebo.
From the doorway of the Stable, Prince Azure watches the preparations for the party. In his hand is a black box wrapped up in red ribbon. There is a clear ticking sound coming from inside the box. He stares from the doorway of the dark Stable at Sylvia Black who stands in the entrance of the front gates. She is talking to Mr. Ash.
“Fool me once, shame on you,” he says, “Fool me twice, shame on me.”
-Saturday, May 14, 1949 –
-Morning-
Sylvia Black stands in her bedroom in front of the mirror wearing a black and white polka-dot sundress. She is wearing a large sunhat, dark sunglasses, black gloves, and shiny black heels. Scott Black knocks on the door frame as he enters the room.
“You look so handsome,” Sylvia says coming over to Scott and fixing the color of his white shirt.
“My vest is too tight.” Scott pulls at the heavy cotton material
“You can take it off after lunch.” Sylvia says, “I want the guests to see you in it. You match Jet’s outfit perfectly.”
Jet comes into the doorway, “When are people going to start arriving.”
“Not for a while.” Sylvia says, “I still need to check on some last minute details. Why don’t you boys go see if John and your Aunt Claire are ready.”
Jet and Scott exit the Bedroom as Sylvia turns back to herself in the mirror. She is alarmed at the reflection in the mirror as she sees Hugh standing behind her. She quickly turns around to see no one is there.
“The caterers have arrived.” Mr. Ash says from the doorway
“You startled me,” Sylvia says
“I can see that.” Mr. Ash says
“Are the caterers setting up in the Gazebo?” asks Sylvia
“Yes,” Mr. Ash says, “But we have one little problem.”
Out in the Gazebo, numerous caterers set up round tables and a long white buffet-styled table. Mrs. White walks down the path from the Garden towards the Gazebo.
“What in blazes do you think you are doing?” Mrs. White barks at the head caterer
“Ma’am,” he offers his hand for her to shake, “You must be Sylvia Black’s maid.”
“I am her maid and her cook and her housekeeper and I’m supposed to be catering this garden party!” Mrs. White says obviously flushed
“No,” the head caterer hands her his clip board, “See there,” he points, “Sylvia Black ordered the Mediterranean lunch for thirty.”
“There has to be some mistake.” Mrs. White says
Sylvia Black and Mr. Ash come from the mansion and head towards the Gazebo.
“Here they are now,” Mrs. White says, “I’m sure this will be straightened out.”
“Blanche,” Sylvia says, “I’m so sorry. I thought Mr. Ash would have told you.”
“With all the preparations it slipped my mind.” Mr. Ash says
“I’ve been working on this menu for the past week!” Mrs. White says
“And I promise you we will use it during our midsummer garden party!” Sylvia Black says
“The whole damn thing is ruined!” Mrs. White shouts
“No,” Sylvia says, “You should change. I want you to be a guest here.”
“Every time someone comes to one of your parties it’s my cooking they eat!” Mrs. White shouts, “That’s the highlight of these parties! I get complimented on my pastries and cheese spreads.”
“Well,” Sylvia says trying to be gentle, “Maybe this time you’ll find the highlight of this party is being one of the pampered guests.”
Mrs. White’s mouth is agape, “I have nothing in common with those spoiled rotten brats born with gold spoons in their mouths and a silver one shoved up their…”
“Maybe you should rest in the Library,” Sylvia covers Mrs. White’s mouth and leads her away from the caterers.
In her bedroom on Ceil Drive, Mrs. Penelope Peacock stands in front of the long mirror in the corner and adjusts her light blue skirt. From the doorway, Miss Scarlet enters wearing a red sundress.
“You look lovely,” Mrs. Peacock smiles as she goes into her closet
“I need to talk to you about Ms. Hawthorne.” Miss Scarlet says
“Oh?” Mrs. Peacock says
“I went to see her on Wednesday to see why she didn’t cash your cheque.” Miss Scarlet says
“Did she give you an answer?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“She told me she was planning on selling you secret to the highest bidder.” Miss Scarlet says
“Why didn’t you come and tell me this sooner?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“You’ve been so busy with Colonel Mustard I never actually had a chance to.” Miss Scarlet says
“We need to go talk to her before the garden party.” Mrs. Peacock says coming out of her closet with a blue hat decorated with peacock feathers.
“There is no need.” Miss Scarlet says holding up the newspaper.
“This is the obituary,” Mrs. Peacock looks up at her, “What did you do?”
“Read.” Miss Scarlet smiles
“Lena Hawthorne was found dead Friday morning after having fallen down the dangerous hill that leads up to her old home.” Mrs. Peacock says
“She was there for two days before they found her.” Miss Scarlet says, “Two whole days and no one so much as cared to check in on her.”
“You killed her?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“I did what needed to be done.” Miss Scarlet says going over to Mrs. Peacock’s dressing table and picking up two earrings, “Can I wear these?”
Mrs. Peacock nods, “You did it quietly I hope.”
“I strangled her with those damned binoculars that she spies on everyone with.” Miss Scarlet says, “It felt poetic… and it was the first thing I grabbed hold of.”
“And the police didn’t notice the lesions on her neck?” Mrs. Peacock asks
“It blended with the wrinkles and extra fat around her neck.” Miss Scarlet says
“You are horrible.” Mrs. Peacock shakes her head
“Remind me again,” Miss Scarlet says putting in the earrings, “How many people did you murder last month?”
“We all make mistakes.” Mrs. Peacock says
“Yes,” Miss Scarlet says, “Speaking of mistakes, are you sure the colonel is the right man for you?”
“I am,” Mrs. Peacock says
“Could he be husband number four?” asks Miss Scarlet
“Oh stop it!” Mrs. Peacock smacks her playfully on the arm, “I’m not sure what I would say if Algernon proposed.”
“Say yes so I can have this house all to myself.” Miss Scarlet says
“What about my brother?” asks Mrs. Peacock
“You can have custody of him.” Miss Scarlet says as she heads out into the Hall.
At the Oakwood Residence, Lady Elizabeth Oakwood coughs profusely as she walks down the stairs. In the Drawing Room, Percival Oakwood brings the breakfast tray into the room. Lord Edward Oakwood is sitting in his wheelchair near the bridge table.
“Isn’t Mrs. Crabtree working?” Lady Oakwood asks
“I’m helping her out.” Percival says, “Coffee?”
“Of course,” Lady Oakwood snaps, “I always drink coffee. Why should today be any different?”
“Father?” Percival offer as he pours coffee for his mother
“You know your father can’t drink coffee,” Lady Oakwood says, “You should know that by now.” She takes a sip, “This is cold. Go fetch a hot pot!”
Percival puts the silver coffee pot back on the breakfast tray and carries it out of the Drawing Room.
“Are we going to Tudor Close today?” asks Lord Oakwood
“Of course we are.” Lady Oakwood says, “How would it look if we didn’t go?”
“Well you don’t exactly seem to be feeling well.” Lord Oakwood says
“I’m feeling fine,” Lady Oakwood says
“You’ve been feeling nauseous and dizzy for the past month,” Lord Oakwood says, “I don’t think you should go to this party.”
“I’m fine,” Lady Oakwood says, “I know my body more than anyone else does!”
Lord Oakwood is silent. From the Hallway, Percival Oakwood listens and sets the breakfast tray on a side table. He withdraws a bottle of arsenic from his pocket. He adds two drops to the coffee and then secures the bottle and slips it back into his pocket. He enters the Drawing Room with the new pot of coffee.
At the Mustard Home, in the Hallway, Colonel Mustard stands at a mail table holding a small, black drawstring pouch in his hand. He opens the bag and removes a silver ring with two small diamonds on each side of a large blue diamond. He remembers the day that he acquired the diamond ring.
-FLASHBACK- 13 Years Ago-
Colonel Mustard stands armed with a rifle with five other armed men. They are in the grassy plains of Africa with a large empty truck. Two jeeps pull up with crates in the back.
“Colonel,” a man steps out and addresses him, “We’re sorry it took so long, we had word of a safari tour coming through. We timed it so that we would miss them.”
“These are all the boxes of ivory?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Enough here to fill the Nile.” The man says
“Hugh Black will be happy with our promptness.” Colonel Mustard says, “He wasn’t expecting this shipment to be delivered into my hands until Monday.”
“All the more reason to get it safely back to England.” The man says, “I assume that you have someone who can smuggle this through?”
“Hugh Black found a man by the name of O’Range.” Colonel Mustard says, “He has smuggled ivory, drugs, weapons, and women for years.”
“Colonel,” another man calls out
Colonel Mustard turns to see a caravan approaching. There are guards on each side of the caravan.
“The royal insignia.” The man gasps
“Do we take action?” asks a man from Colonel Mustard’s armed group
“We shoot any witnesses.” another man says
“Colonel,” the first man says, “We are waiting for your order.”
“Take down the guards first,” Colonel Mustard says, “Then the passengers.”
“All of them?” asks the second man
“All of them.” Colonel Mustard nods
-END OF FLASHBACK-
“The ring of the dead princess,” Colonel Mustard says softly to himself, “Despite the fear and sorrow this ring has seen, it still retains the beauty from the day it was cut and set.”
He sighs enters the Living Room and looks at the stack of journals from which he is taking excerpts from for his memoir.
“Where is 1936?” Colonel Mustard becomes flustered as he can’t pinpoint where one is, “Oh it has to be here somewhere.”
“Ahem,” a man’s voice is heard from the doorway. Colonel Mustard turns his head to see Miles Meadow-Brook standing near the front door, “I knocked and knocked. Your hearing must be fading.”
Colonel Mustard sees a black book in the man’s grip.
“What have you got there?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Well I read that page you tried to hide the typewriter.” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “You are a very good writer. In fact you surpassed my judgment of a military man’s life story. I was so moved and enlightened by your writing I figured you wouldn’t mind if I read a little more.”
“Why in blazes would you steal one of my journals?” asks Colonel Mustard
“I didn’t steal it,” Mr. Meadow-Brook sets it on the coffee table, “I borrowed it. Now it is safely returned to you.”
Colonel Mustard grabs the book and holds it close to his chest
“If you didn’t want people reading them,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “They shouldn’t be scattered about your living room.”
“How much of it did you read?” asks Colonel Mustard
“Cover to cover.” Mr. Meadow-Brook smiles, “I found it especially intriguing when you and five men singlehandedly took down a royal caravan. Blood was spilt, the bodies were left for the jackals, and the ivory was returned safely to a smuggler and embezzler of whom I was very close friends to – Hugh Black!”
Colonel Mustard is silent
“Don’t worry,” Mr. Meadow-Brook says, “Mr. Green and I have taken over where Hugh left off. Who’s to say we couldn’t use an extra pair of hands. I mean after all, you don’t mind getting your hands dirty. Let’s say you give me some information on anyone else you have written about in exchange for my silence.”
“No,” Colonel Mustard says, “I’m starting fresh with the woman I love. My life of crime is over.”
“It’s about to come right back up and bite you on the backside if you don’t hand over that information. Think about it.” Mr. Meadow-Brook walks towards the front door, “A few little secrets of the other Hampshire residents or you end up talking to Mrs. Peacock through jail bars. I doubt you want to end up back in jail.”
Mr. Meadow-Brook leaves Colonel Mustard’s house. Colonel Mustard angrily tosses the journal against the wall.
Across the Street in the Green Home, Mr. Thallo Green opens his briefcase. Inside is a roll of money and a gun. He smiles and closes the suitcase.
“Where can one find Dante Egret?” asks Mr. Green
-FLASHBACK- 3 Days Ago-
“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.”
-END OF FLASHBACK-
Mr. Green thinks for a moment. He then picks up the telephone and dials a number.
“Tudor Close, this is Mr. Ash,” the voice answers
“Mr. Ash, it’s Thallo Green.” Mr. Green says
“I’m sorry, Mr. Green,” Mr. Ash says, “Sylvia specifically asked that you not come to the garden party today.”
“I need to talk to her,” Mr. Green says, “I won’t have to show up if you can get her on the phone.”
“Sylvia Black is busy preparing for her guests.” Mr. Ash says, “She doesn’t have time to answer the phone.”
“Then warn her that I’ll be by later today.” Mr. Green says
“What exactly does this pertain to?” asks Mr. Ash with annoyance on his voice
“Hugh Black’s New York Penthouse.” Mr. Green says, “I need the keys to it because I have a feeling that someone by the name of Dante Egret will be breaking in and hiding out in it for a while.”
“I’ll warn Sylvia that you are coming.” Mr. Ash says
At the Gate House of Tudor Close, Sylvia Black smiles excitedly.
“Lord Grey!” she greets the elderly man carrying a cello case. There is a much younger, Asian beauty on his arm. She is carrying a violin case.
“Sylvia!” Lord Grey hugs her tightly, “It’s been so long. I’m so sorry I didn’t make it to Hugh’s Funeral. I was in Shanghai.”
“I see you brought home a souvenier,” Sylvia eyes the young Asian woman with hint of concern.
“Oh no,” Lord Grey chuckles, “It’s nothing like that. This is Lady Lavender. She is a musical prodigy.”
“Hello,” Lady Lavender says, “It’s nice to meet you.”
“Lady,” Sylvia says, “How did someone of your fragile age gain such a heavy title?”
“She was married to Lord Lavender,” Lord Grey says, “Until he passed away six months ago.”
“Us widows must stick together.” Lady Lavender says touching Sylvia’s arm with sympathy.
“Why don’t you go set up in the Garden.” Lord Grey says, “The other violin and viola players will be here soon.”
Lady Lavender nods and takes Lord Grey’s cello case.
“She’s a sweetheart isn’t she?” asks Lord Grey
“She’s twelve.” Sylvia says
“No she isn’t!” Lord Grey says, “She’s sixteen. They marry young with high expectations in the East.”
“Please tell me you are just a fatherly figure showing her the beautiful English countryside,” Sylvia sighs
“I think we should start rehearsing.” Lord Grey says, “You did want a fully prepared string quartet.”
Lord Grey walks off in the direction of the garden. Sylvia Black stands watching him as caterers carry chairs to the Gazebo.
Across the Lake in his Cabin, Rusty Naylor binds Jessica’s hands tighter.
“I can’t have any stunts from you today, miss,” Rusty says to the bound and gagged girl, “Today is the day your father will be out of the picture. By tomorrow you will be taken to a safe place in Arlington. I will then inform your mother that I saw someone resembling you there. By the time they find you, you will have starved to death.”
Jessica begins to cry.
“Your mother will love me for finding you,” Rusty says, “If only we’d found you sooner.”
Jessica moans and tries to pull herself out of her confinement
“Don’t struggle,” Rusty says, “You’ll only make the ropes tighter. Now I have to go make my appearance at this garden party.”
At the Prussian Home, Roxanne Prussian sits in the Breakfast Room drinking orange juice. Dr. Rex Prussian enters with the paper.
“Did you hear that Lena Hawthorne died?” Dr. Prussian asks
“Who’s she?” asks Roxanne
“She’s the woman who lives in that old house on the hill.” Dr. Prussian says, “I did surgery on her husband several years ago. He never recovered.”
“Oh, right,” Roxanne says, “How did she die?”
“She took a nasty fall down the pathway leading down the hill.” Dr. Prussian says
“Well,” Roxanne says, “I suppose I should start figuring out what I’m going to wear to Tudor Close.”
“We aren’t going.” Dr. Prussian says
“What?” Roxanne is shocked, “Why not?”
“Because you tend to make a scene at these sorts of gatherings.” Dr. Prussian says, “I mean you acted like a drunk at the A La Carte last week.”
“I won’t have anything to drink.” Roxanne says
“It’s out of the question.” Dr. Prussian says, “Besides, I’m going to the country club with several coworkers.”
“Please,” Roxanne begs, “Rex it’s been so long since we have been invited to anything hosted by the Blacks.”
“I will not condone it.” Dr. Prussian says, “I will not have you making a spectacle of yourself again.”
On the Grounds of Tudor Close, Jet Black stands on the Terrace looking into the Garden where he watches Lady Lavender tuning her violin. He walks down the terrace steps and over to her.
“Hello,” he says shyly
“Hello,” she smiles at him
“I’m Jet,” he introduces himself, “My mother is throwing this elaborate afternoon gala.”
“Su Sian,” Lady Lavender says
“I haven’t seen you around Hampshire before.” Jet says
“No,” Lady Lavender answers, “I’m from Shanghai. I came with Alfred.” She waves delicately to Lord Grey who stands across the garden. He smiles and waves back.
“So you play the violin?” Jet asks pointing at the violin in her hands
“That’s a silly question,” Lady Lavender says striking the bow to the strings and giving a long smooth note
“I… well, my mother plays too,” Jet says nervously, “I didn’t realize there was going to be live music.”
“We play while the other guests arrive.” Lady Lavender says, “Then we join them in eating, talking, and other activities.”
“Do you play tennis?” asks Jet
“I’ve never tried.” Lady Lavender says
“I could show you after lunch.” Jet says eagerly
“I would enjoy learning.” Lady Lavender bats her eyes at him
Jet smiles at her as Lord Grey comes over.
“I see you’ve met my beauty lotus flower.” Lord Grey says putting his grip on Lady Lavender’s shoulder, “She traveled with me all the way from Shanghai. There were some lonely nights during the train ride through the Mediterranean I remember.”
Jet avoids eye contact with Lord Grey.
“Move along boy,” Lord Grey says sternly, “There’s nothing to see here.”
Lady Lavender frowns as Jet reluctantly walks towards the Gazebo.
From the doorway of the Stable, Prince Azure watches the preparations for the party. In his hand is a black box wrapped up in red ribbon. There is a clear ticking sound coming from inside the box. He stares from the doorway of the dark Stable at Sylvia Black who stands in the entrance of the front gates. She is talking to Mr. Ash.
“Fool me once, shame on you,” he says, “Fool me twice, shame on me.”