A Man of Principles

Emily Christou

Prologue

Pride is one of the seven deadly sins Ian Carlisle, an Anglican priest and teacher of Theology and Religious Studies was rehearsing his sermon in the library of the vicarage, when he heard someone speak in a hushed tone of voice: Not again! He stopped for a moment and then resumed his reading: Never let your Pride prevent you from admitting that you were wrong if you saw that it was necessary to do so The whispering continued: Please! Not again! For a second time, Ian Carlisle ignored the intrusion: Remember King Herod. He agreed to have the head of Saint John the Baptist cut off because his Pride did not let him admit that he was wrong to promise the unattainable. Remember the lessons that you learnt in todays Gospel Now, the tone of voice became loud and clear: Not another deadly sin! This time, Ian Carlisle removed his spectacles and looked up from his papers. Someone was asking for an argument. Whats the matter, Hugh? Dont you like my sermon?

A Man of Principles

Emily Christou

Dad, this is the third week in a row that you have used one of the seven deadly sins in your sermon. Last Sunday it was greed, and the Sunday before, wrath. From where I was sitting I could see that Mrs Goodwin was miming the word you were about to say. It wouldnt surprise me if the congregation started laying bets on which deadly sin your next sermon would be. Oh, it wouldnt, would it? By all means, Hugh, tell me what I should or should not say in my sermon; Id like to hear your views. But try not to talk down to people. It is embarrassing for an adult to be talked down by a twelve-year-old. You know that I wouldnt want to embarrass you, dad, not you or anyone; Im simply offering an opinion. There was a touch of guilt in his voice when he added: I must admit I probably embarrassed my teacher of English though I didnt mean to. But then, its her fault; she thinks she knows better. Ian Carlisle was used to his sons outspokenness and remained calm. What did you say to her? He asked him. I corrected her grammar. She said: If I missed the eight oclock bus this morning, I would be late. She shouldve said: If I had missed the eight oclock bus this morning, I would have been late. One doesnt have to be so precise with the tenses in everyday speech. Dad, she was wrong. Now, about the sermon; shall we look for an interesting theme in current affairs? Ian Carlisle took a few seconds to decide which would be quicker; to let young Hugh say what he had to say or to have an argument; he chose the first option: Very well, Hugh. But if I agree to drop Pride, I shall need time to re-write the sermon. So, be quick with your suggestions.

A Man of Principles

Emily Christou

Why not choose an event from this chaotic year of our Lord 1968? We are nearing the end of the year, and the world is still in turmoil. Now, thats an interesting expression: world in turmoil though rather clich. Hugh, dont you get bored sitting in this library? Dad, Ive been sitting in this library with you since I was four. Here are some topics for the sermon: politics, assassinations, revolts, the civil rights movement, the cold war etc. You can even choose from the world of sport. How about the Olympic Games that were held in Mexico City in October, shortly after the massacre there? Do you know about everything thats happened in the world this year? Yes. I make notes of world events. Feel free to browse through the storage box that I keep in my bedroom. I also make notes of interesting sayings and expressions that I come across in the books I read. When do you find time to do all that? Most children of your age can just about cope with their homework. Theres nothing left to read in this library; I need to do something. I suppose you mean theres nothing left that youd like to read. No, thats not what I mean, dad. I mean Ive read everything. And Ive started to re-read some books. I didnt make enough notes the first time round, so now I have to go back and read them again to write down what I missed. Now let me suggest an alternative to re-reading. How about going to see your friends from time to time? Do you have friends, Hugh? We dont have the same interests, dad. Im not interested in learning to play the guitar, and they dont want to know about any great orators, dead or alive. Have you made up your mind to read Law, then? Yes. Many great people in history read Law.

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You made a good choice. But you must find a way to make friends. I like to read, dad. If youre not prepared to go out of your way to please others, you will never have friends. And now let me get on with my sermon. Later that evening Ian Carlisle spoke of his concerns to his wife: Are we raising this boy as we should be, Anne? He was wrong to criticize his teacher. I let him point out to me what I should or should not say in my sermon, because to be honest, I like his ideas. But he must learn to show respect to people. Hes not disrespectful; he really likes to be of help. I think it was a mistake not to send him to boarding school; at least he wouldve made some friends there. If you remember, he didnt want to go to boarding school. Is he disruptive at school? Have we had any negative reports? No, Ian. Excellent reports as always. What does his teacher of English think of him? She mustve felt insulted. She laughed: I think she enjoys the challenge. I worry because he doesnt socialize with children of his own age; he must find a way to make and keep friends. He will, Ian. Hugh will find a way to make friends.

A Man of Principles

Emily Christou

Chapter one About forty years later

Hugh Carlisle sat in his chair behind his desk and began: This evening the discussion will be ad lib. We shall begin with a new type of fraud that has emerged recently which is more difficult to detect than the more long-established types. I have no doubt you know that the type of fraud Im talking about is the Internet fraud. Has anyone of you been caught up in fraud that originated on the Internet? They shook their heads in a negative response. I would be surprised if you had he continued. Im sure youre all vigilant. As you probably know, fraudsters can hide their identity and location easily in the World Wide Web and it is difficult to check their legality on line; for these reasons, Internet fraud has spread rapidly; from identity theft to health fraud, from investment fraud to bankruptcy fraud. Hugh Carlisle held meetings in his room in Harrington Lewis at seven in the evening, regularly, throughout his adult life. His friends and acquaintances came to hear him talk about law, philosophy, principles and dogmas. He may have sat in court all day, but soon his tiredness would wane and his energy would be restored; he would spend the next two hours with people who shared his views and loved to hear his beautiful voice. Hugh Carlisle knew how to win people over; how to make them stand and listen.

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This evening too, there were as many questions as guests; but for the most part, they were all alike: How would you deal with this problem, Hugh? I would use all my resources to find a solution even if it looked like a pointless fight. When you see that something is wrong, no matter what, you have to try and put it right even when you suspect that it may destroy you in the process. On his way out that evening, Robert Harrington, the most senior partner in Harrington Lewis, heard what Hugh was saying as he was passing outside his room, and went inside. No, Hugh Harrington said. Thats going too far. Even if you dont care about the consequences that this action might have for yourself, think about the consequences it might have for the parties involved. You must be willing to admit defeat and stop fighting a pointless fight. The majority of Hughs guests came from outside the practice. Some attended the meetings regularly, no matter what the topic for discussion, others only when it was of interest to them. Some stayed away when the discussions were ad lib; sometimes, they ended in chaos. A few partners and staff from Harrington Lewis attended the meetings too, and this evening, Olivia Wilmot, a partner in the practice was there, and she nodded in agreement with Harrington, even though she knew that Hugh would never lose hope and give up on a fight. From time to time, she tried to persuade him to be less outspoken but it was no use; he insisted that his was the most appropriate course of action to take towards a given situation. Do you realize that a disgruntled client might decide to take revenge and harm you? It is unwise to be so unreasonably determined Olivia would tell him. One must speak the truth, or stop preaching Hugh would reply.

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It may be the truth as far as you are concerned; I love to hear you talk, Hugh, but I dont agree with your views. I know shes in love with me, Hugh Carlisle thought; and so is everyone who comes to the meetings. Am I to blame that young and old alike find me physically attractive? I do nothing to encourage them. All I want is their friendship. I was brought up to have values as laid down by moral principles. I wish I could tell her why it would be wrong for us to have an affair. More so for me; I am still married to Veronica. But I cant make her understand. I hope one day she works it out for herself. He had kept his old storage box that was full of relics from his childhood, and browsed through its contents all the time. He turned the pages of the three books that had been his precious companions during his friendless adolescence, and recalled how they helped him sail through it. He cast his mind back to those early years, when he was always reading, searching for answers, remembering his joy when he found what he was looking for, in a book. He wondered if he had gone too far; but then, he had not anticipated the consequences. Maybe Matthew was right when he said that he shouldve got rid of the storage box to stop reminding himself of outdated values and morals. He smiled as he thought about this; it was too late to get rid of the box now; Anna would never let him. His life continued much the same ever since Veronica left him. Except he didnt see Margaret as often as before, and he missed their moments together in each others houses, sitting side by side on the sofa, reminiscing.

A Man of Principles

Emily Christou

He invited his friends to his house, frequently. Margaret and Matthew Abbott were always among his guests, and so were Olivia, and more recently George Mackenzie. Hugh would place the storage box on the coffee table. Feel free to browse through its contents he would tell them. His guests looked at his childhood souvenirs from his life in the vicarage but did not see anything remarkable in that old storage box. All the same, he kept on asking them to browse through its contents every time. Perhaps, sooner or later, they would learn its secret. But the years went by and no one did; except Matthew.

*** On Wednesday the 5 of November, Lucy was at the reception desk in Harrington Lewis, when Hugh came back from lunch. Today, he didnt stop to have a chat; he walked past her in a hurry. An urgent matter had come up and it was important that he talked to Robert Harrington as soon as possible. Enjoy the fireworks, Lucy he said, and proceeded to climb the stairs. Lucy smiled happily: Thank you, I will, Mr Carlisle she said. Shed watch a display at her aunts house. Later that afternoon, George Mackenzie went to see Hugh, as he did every day, to have a talk with him, or to ask his advice on a difficult case. Something has come up regarding Marinos Bakery, George he said. A couple of days ago, I obtained some incriminating information on the directors of the loan company but I am not ready to discuss it with you just yet. Ill talk to you about it tomorrow. In the evening, a few minutes before eight oclock, the cleaner Susan Brown went in Hughs room to empty the waste-paper basket.

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Im sorry to disturb you, Mr Carlisle she said. I have to leave at eight to take my children to see the fireworks. You couldve come in earlier, Susan. You neednt wait for me to leave, to get on with your work.' I dont like to disturb you, Mr Carlisle. You dont disturb me. Tell me, how are your children getting on with the story books I gave you last month? Have they started reading them yet? They finished reading them and theyre writing to tell you about the stories. He laughed. Childrens letters are inspirational; I cant wait to read them.' *** At seven forty-five in the morning on Thursday the 6 of November, Margaret Abbott, practice manager at Harrington Lewis & Co, Solicitors and Commissioners for Oaths, arrived at Holborn Underground Station in Central London, to go to the companys premises in Grays Square. On her way, she met the lawyer George Mackenzie who had joined the practice four months earlier, and they walked together. They arrived at the front door and Margaret took out her keys. She unlocked the door and as she pushed it open she murmured that the alarm had not been set. Whoever was the last person to leave yesterday evening, had not set the alarm. She turned to the right of the entrance hall to go to her room behind the reception, and George turned to the left to climb the stairs. As she lingered at the reception desk to check the waste-paper basket, she heard a scream from George: Margaret! He yelled.

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Chapter two

At seven-thirty in the morning on Thursday the 6 of November, Detective Inspector Mike Harper of the Metropolitan Police was sitting on his rug in his bedroom in the lotus position. He had his eyes closed, and was concentrating on breathing deeply and rhythmically. As his mind emptied of all thoughts, his body became more and more relaxed. He loved this feeling of relaxation that rendered him helpless to make the slightest movement. It was extraordinary that stillness could be so divine. Then the alarm went off telling him that time was up. He had been practicing yoga and meditation through deep breathing from the time he got married to Rita. It had become part of his daily routine, like brushing his teeth or like saying a prayer, to some people. He relied on meditation for his wellbeing. If a day passed and he hadnt sat down alone to contemplate undisturbed for fifteen minutes, he became overstressed. He finished his exercises and stepped in the shower; a feeling of vanity would come over him every time he saw his slender figure in the mirror. At the age of fiftytwo, his hair was only slightly beginning to turn grey and his bony face was attractive enough to make him feel good about himself. His body, though small, was in good form, with the right proportion of fat to muscle. It shocked him to think what shape his body would be at his age now, if he hadnt met Rita. Id have a beer belly and a few spare tyres, he thought.

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This morning, he was in no hurry to get to the Station. Lately, he had been spending hours sitting at his desk. He picked up a book from his bedside table and went to join Rita for breakfast. Have you started a new book then? She asked him. Yes, another non-fiction. I darent start a novel; if a case comes up, I may have to abandon it for weeks, as I did with Great Expectations. Ive told you that I was halfway through it when a murder investigation began. I kept thinking of the plot instead of concentrating on the case. That was when you first became a Detective Sergeant, darling. Surely you wouldnt neglect your work now because of a book? I wouldnt chance it. But I enjoy re-reading passages from the same novels. Ive told you that I keep Great Expectations in my desk. Rita smiled knowingly. So, what are you reading now? Its a guide to world religions. I found it in a heap of withdrawn books in the forecourt of a reference library in Bishopsgate. Did you know that Atheism is classified as a religion? He was taking his time over breakfast. However, this period of leisure was about to end; he had just poured himself a second cup of coffee when his mobile rang: It looks like there was a suspicious death last night, sir. In Harpers experience, a suspicious death in Central London on Guy Fawkes Night was likely to occur. The crowds spread from the banks of the Thames and celebrated by getting drunk and disorderly. Besides, every so often, gangs of youths fought by thrusting knives recklessly at each other. He readily assumed that it was yet another youth in one such gang, who had met his death this way. Where? Harper asked.

A Man of Principles Grays Square, sir.

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What were they doing in Grays Square? Id like to know. Its not the place for young delinquents to go and pick a fight. The body wasnt in the Square, sir. It was found inside the legal practice of Harrington Lewis. You mayve heard of him. He was the renowned barrister Hugh Carlisle. The last person Id expect to die a suspicious death, Harper thought. Why would anyone murder Hugh Carlisle?

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Chapter three

Hugh Carlisles body was lying in the hall, at the bottom of the staircase, with his legs spread upwards on the stairs; his right arm was stretched away from the body and his left was thrust against the wall. His head was on the floor, and his eyes were wide open fixed on the ceiling. He was hit with a heavy, flat and smooth object at the top of the head and he died instantly, before his body began to roll down the stairs. I put the time of death approximately twelve hours ago, between eight and nine. I shall be more precise after the autopsy. When will you perform the autopsy? Harper asked the pathologist. Ill try to fit him in later this morning. In the meantime, I can tell you that he received three or four blows, and it was probably the first one that killed him; and he was either sitting down or hit by a very tall person. I guess he stooped, possibly to pick up something, and the murderer delivered the blows to the top of the head. Any thoughts about the murderer? A strong man; the object hit him with considerable force. But dont take my word for it, Mike. When the pathologist and the forensic team finished their investigations and the body was taken away, the officers cordoned off the staircase and the area of the hall that led to it. Harper and Detective Sergeant Chris Norton went in the boardroom

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where the two senior partners Robert Harrington and Joseph Weinberg were waiting with the practice manager Margaret Abbott and the lawyer George Mackenzie. No one was talking when the Inspector and the Sergeant went in; they were sitting quietly around the table brooding over their own thoughts. No one had stepped outside the room while the body was at the bottom of the stairs. They had kept the door shut, and though they could hear the noise, they wouldnt know what the police were doing. Maybe they didnt want to know; maybe they hoped that this dreadful incident would go away if they kept it out of sight. Harper addressed Robert Harrington: Please ensure that everyone uses the lift while the stairs are cordoned off. Arrange for all employees to prepare a signed statement as to what time they left yesterday evening, and where they were between eight and nine with their alibis if any. When my officers finish searching the rooms theyll take everyones fingerprints and then you can all get back to your work. We shall interview a few members of staff and try to be as quick as possible. Who found the body? George and I were together said Margaret. Whos the next of kin? Harrington was overcome with emotion; he spoke with a trembling voice: Inspector, this is terrible. Ive worked in this practice for forty-three years, going on for forty-four, and now, as Im about to call it a day and say that life has been good to me, I stumble upon the murder of a very good man and a great lawyer inside these premises. This is awful, Inspector. Weinberg had no praise for Carlisle: A good man or a great lawyer isnt always without reproach. Its a matter of opinion; your opinion, not mine.

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Obviously, they are not bothered about Carlisles next of kin, Harper thought; they did not answer my question. Why do they want me to know their opinion of Carlisle? His wife Veronica is his next of kin said Margaret. They had lived apart for about two years but they werent divorced. Mrs Carlisle left her husband for a QC, Arthur Shaw, and she lives with him in his estate in Suffolk. Hugh lived with their daughter Anna in their house in Notting Hill. Anna is in Oxford. I asked my husband to phone Arthur, Inspector. Thank you, Mrs Abbott. Detective Constable Russell knocked on the door and Harper stepped outside: Forensics has finished with these gentlemens rooms, sir. Good. When they finish in the Square remove Carlisles computer and take it to the Station. He went back to the boardroom: You may go to your rooms now, gentlemen. I shall speak to you later and hope not to take too much of your time. He turned to Margaret: Please stay here Mrs Abbott. He guessed her age to be late forties. He saw that in spite of the shock she had kept her composure. She was slim, nice looking, and had the unruffled look of a middle-class English woman who would never draw attention to herself by showing her feelings. A woman like her was probably a committee member of her local church; he could rely on her for information. How long have you worked here, Mrs Abbott? Nearly three decades, Inspector. Does anything ever happen that you wouldnt know about? Margaret forced a smile: Very little escapes me.

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So, youd know if an employee or client held a grudge against Mr Carlisle? I can think of no one, Inspector, who bore a strong enough grudge against Hugh to want him dead. This was hard to believe. Harper could think of a few disgruntled individuals with grudges against lawyers. Someone wanted Carlisle dead. Then again, she was probably biased. Tell me about this morning, Mrs Abbott. I arrived at Holborn underground Station at seven forty-five and it doesnt take longer than fifteen minutes to walk here. I met George Mackenzie on the way and we walked together. I unlocked the door, first with the Chubb and then with the Yale, and as I pushed it open, I saw that the alarm wasnt set. This did not surprise me; the employees often forgot to set the alarm before they left in the evening. I walked towards the right of the hall to go to my room behind the reception, and George walked towards the left, to climb the stairs. I noticed the unwashed cups on the reception desk and remembered that Susan had telephoned to say that she may not have time to carry out some of the usual tasks. I made a mental note to send an email around about the alarm and just as I was checking the waste-paper basket, I heard a scream from George. He yelled and called my name; he sounded scared. When I turned to look at him he was slowly stepping backwards. Margaret stopped talking for a few moments and then drew in a deep breath before she continued: I took a few steps towards George and followed his stare to the floor. When I saw Hugh lying there I thought I was going to faint and I held on to Georges arm. Harper noticed her anguish and interrupted her: Do you want to have a break now, Mrs Abbott? Would you like a cup of coffee?

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Margaret shook her head in a negative response and continued: George shouted at me to get an ambulance. Evidently, the thought that Hugh might be dead hadnt occurred to him. I crouched and took Hughs wrist; there was no pulse and he was cold. I also noticed an indentation at the top of his head. It couldnt have been caused by falling down the carpeted stairs. I said that Id call the police and that we should step back because we didnt know how he died and we may destroy evidence. Again, Margaret drew in a deep breath before she continued: George sobbed and said that surely it was a horrible accident; he fell down the stairs. In any case, even if it were an accident it wouldnt have made his sorrow easier to bear. Tears streamed down his face and he was barely intelligible as he tried to speak between sobs. Why anyone would murder Hugh, he said. He had no enemies. His clients were grateful to him for his support. She continued without waiting for Harpers question: It was a shock, Inspector, for George and for me. Hugh had worked here nearly for as long as I have and our families met socially even after the break up of his marriage. My husband Matthew is a lecturer in Law and Hugh was a good friend of his; they saw each other regularly for many years. Whos responsible for setting the alarm? The last person to leave. The cleaner Susan Brown is here every weekday from seven until nine and she always sets the alarm if shes the last to leave. Yesterday evening however, she was going to leave at eight to go to a fireworks display with her family and she may not have been the last. Did the employees know that she was going to leave at eight? Yes; I sent an e-mail to remind them about the alarm.

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Mrs Abbott, are you in charge for the security of the building? I put the proposal to the board to install a security lock but Mr Weinberg opposed my suggestion. Ive asked the employees to keep the door locked with the Chubb after six. Did Mr Weinberg say why he didnt want a security lock? He said it would be expensive to install, and if a key holder lost their keys, it would be expensive to replace. Harper had no doubt that this practice could afford a security lock no matter how expensive. Surely, Weinberg knew that taking shortcuts in security could compromise the safety of the employees? What was really his excuse? When was the last time you saw Mr Carlisle? At about four oclock in the kitchen yesterday. He told me that Anna was coming for the weekend and he planned to take her to the theatre. As far as you know how many employees were still here when you left? There were two names on the writing board by the front door, Hughs and Catherine Westons; shes our accountant. Anyone staying after seven writes their name on the board and erases it on their way out. Yesterday, those who normally stayed late, left early; maybe because of the fireworks. How did Mr Carlisle get on with the partners and staff? Hugh got on well with everybody; whats more the employees praised him. She added, anticipating Harpers next question: For his exceptional skills. Hugh never lost a case. Then she said as if to reassure Harper of Carlisles character: And hed rather turn down a case than defend a dishonest person.

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Its usually the dishonest that end up in court, Harper thought. And isnt everyone entitled to a defence? How did you find out about that? My husband told me. Soon after Hugh joined the practice he was invited to give a talk at the Law College where Matthew is a lecturer. They got on well so we started seeing them socially. Veronica is hospitable, though some might say that shes not very friendly. Did you approve of Mr Carlisles moral principles? Yes, I did. What about Mr Harrington? No, I dont think so, Inspector. Did he ever say to you that he wanted Mr Carlisle out of the practice? No. If Hugh left the practice, so would the clients. Besides, the partners wouldnt stand for it. I dont think Mr Harrington had a choice. To disapprove of ones principles isnt a convincing motive for murder, Harper thought. The murderer mustve had a good reason to kill a man like Hugh Carlisle. Please tell me everything you know about Hugh Carlisle, Mrs Abbott; the smallest detail may help us in our investigation. Hugh grew up in a vicarage; his father was an Anglican priest. He gave lectures and tutorials free of charge, for many years. So, his friends outnumbered his foes. Thats right, Inspector. If Hugh made enemies, it would be because he wouldnt keep quiet about someones illegal business dealings. I know of no one in

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this practice who was in trouble with the law and needed Hugh to cover up for them, unless of course, a situation arose in the last few days. A fleeting thought crossed Harpers mind. Was Carlisle murdered because his principles became an obstacle to someone who was striving to attain wealth? Was he so highly principled that he never bent the rules even if his life was in danger? Would you have found out about it? I would, from whoever was involved. The employees confide in me. You said that Hugh Carlisle was a family friend. You saw him at work every day and sometimes at weekends. You talked with him possibly more than he talked with his wife. How close were you to Hugh Carlisle? As I said, Inspector, he was a family friend. I must ask you this, Mrs Abbott. Were your feelings for Hugh Carlisle more intimate than feelings of friendship? Ours was true friendship to the end, Inspector. If youre implying that I was in love with Hugh, I assure you neither he nor I felt anything but friendliness for each other. Although, there were others close to Hugh, who mayve been in love with him and mistook it for friendship. No doubt youll find out for yourself by the end of your investigation. Harper suspected that she wasnt telling him the whole truth about her feelings for Hugh Carlisle; he could see that she was struggling to remain poised. She inhaled deeply before she spoke, possibly to steady her nerves and dispel the tremor in her voice. Maybe, what she told him was only part of the truth; how could she be sure that his feelings were as noble as she made them out to be? He was proud of his gift to read character on a persons face, and on getting someone to open their heart to him and tell him everything.

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Mrs Abbott, what was your position when you first came to work for Harrington Lewis? I was employed as assistant to the practice manager on a temporary contract; it suited me while I planned my career. So, you had other plans when you first came to work here. Margaret nodded. But then you changed your mind and stayed. Margaret mustve guessed where Harpers questioning was leading and didnt answer. Harper continued: It will help the investigation if we knew everything theres to know about Hugh Carlisles character. Its possible that he became a victim because of his behaviour. The truth may help us catch his murderer. Margaret said nothing. What was really your relationship with Hugh Carlisle, Mrs Abbott? Was he just a family friend? Inspector, I did have other plans before I met Hugh. I wouldnt have stayed in this job for twenty-seven years if he hadnt come to work here. How can I go on living without him? It wasnt love at first sight. My feelings for him grew when I started to attend his discussion groups. I fell in love with his words and his voice. His voice felt like a caress on my brain; it took away my tiredness. And I found him attractive though I wouldnt say he was a handsome man. It isnt in my character to show my feelings. Hugh probably never guessed how I felt about him when he was alive, and Im not going to confess that I was in love with him now that hes dead; Matthew would never know.

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I thought of Hugh night and day; during a moment of contemplation sitting at my desk; while walking in the street or sitting in the train; I thought of him when I was in my kitchen preparing a meal for my family and when I relaxed in front of the TV with Matthew; I thought of him while lying in bed at night with Matthew. I began to think of him again as soon as I woke up; I couldnt get to work quickly enough. I dont know why we became family friends; I suspect but Im not sure. The closeness began when Matthew and Hugh met. Since that day they saw each other regularly, once or twice a week; but then, they had something in common. The thought that someone could guess my true feelings, never entered my mind; not even when Hugh and I were sitting side by side on the sofa relating anecdotes from our past. We sat there like lovers, our heads resting at the back of the sofa, almost touching at times, and neither he nor I adjusted our positions in case we were misunderstood. I pretended convincingly; but what of him? What were his feelings? I wish he gave me a sign that he understood. He kept an old storage box that dated back to his childhood. He would bring it in the drawing room, place it on the coffee table, and tell the guests to look through its contents if they wished; come and meet my role models, he would say. In the box there were notebooks filled with notes that he had taken when he was a young boy, from literature, poetry, philosophy, law and the bible. It had biographies of saints, bibles, icons and a crucifix. I loved looking through his childhood souvenirs and reading the quotations he had copied. But I couldnt see why anything in that box was a role model for Hugh and I didnt ask him to explain. So, in answer to your question Inspector, was Hugh just a family friend, you see now that he was. Our relationship was platonic and remained so after Veronica left him. Thats true friendship; and Im resolved never to forget an old friend.

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Hugh Carlisle will stay in more than a few peoples memory, Mrs Abbott. Please give me the key to his room and a list of the key holders. Where can we do the interviews? You can use Olivia Wilmots room, next to Hughs. She too, is a resident barrister in the practice. I telephoned Olivia earlier to ask her permission. She will be coming for the interview shortly. Can you think of a reason why anyone would murder Hugh Carlisle? No, Inspector; I cannot imagine why. Hugh cared and helped others in any way he could. If you want to understand why he grew up to become the kind of man he was, browse through his storage box. Ill ask Veronica to show it to you. It may not help you solve his murder but it will give you an insight into his character. Where were you between eight and nine yesterday evening, Mrs Abbott? At home, with my husband.

Do you think Carlisle knew that Mrs Abbott was in love with him, sir? Sergeant Norton asked when Margaret left the boardroom. Yes, Im sure he did. Its unlikely to be sitting close to someone who wants to make love to you and not know it. He was exemplary, sir, not to pursue a love affair with her. Hugh Carlisle would not have pursued a love affair with a married woman. That wouldve been a flaw in the character of a man of principles.

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Chapter four

Harper threw an admiring glance at the decorative interior of the Grade I listed building, the stuccoed ceiling and wall panelling, and the ornamental woodwork on the banisters. What motive, he wondered, would anyone have to commit premeditated murder in this impressive place? He was standing with Norton outside Carlisles room on the first floor at the front of the building, where earlier, forensics had found an unexploded firework. The murderer left it here, Chris, to make Carlisle stoop to see what it was, so he could hit him on the head. How do you know the murderer was a man, sir? The object hit him with considerable force; it left an indentation at the top of his head. Well suppose it was a man. He planned this murder right up to the point of bringing in his own rubbish. Do you think he was hiding somewhere inside the building, sir? Its more likely that he had a set of keys. Harpers gaze lingered on the floor: If no one can explain how this firecracker came to be here, the theory that the murderer brought it in makes sense. Well know for sure after we talk to the cleaner. Did you know Carlisle, sir?

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I knew of his reputation. What Id like to know is why a man like Hugh Carlisle became a victim. What was the flaw in the character of this man of principles? What makes you think there was a flaw in his character? Victims are often flawed; besides, no one is perfect. As they entered Carlisles room, Harpers glance fell directly onto the mantelpiece above the marble fireplace; it was full of books that had collapsed from their upright position. And every available space on the walls was covered with bookshelves packed with large volumes. There was little other furniture in the room. On the wall opposite the desk a metal filing cabinet stood between the windows and a steel basket on top of the cabinet contained a stack of manila files. The desk occupied most of the centre of the room; there were four chairs in front of it and a swivel-chair behind it. Its likely, Chris, that he hid the murder weapon inside the building. Somehow I cant see him carrying it out with him. Norton didnt appear to be listening. He was reading the titles of books on the shelves. So, theres a Chubb and a Yale and an alarm thats not always switched on when the building is empty. Harper now raised his voice: I dont call this security, Chris. No sir. Norton continued to look at the books: He was a truly learned man, sir; there are books on science, philosophy, poetry and mathematics. Chris, we must find the murder weapon. Norton stood by the desk to look at the books that were spread on either side of the computer. Jung, Aristotle, Shakespeare, Bertrand Russell, Seamus Heaney

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Harper now responded with a sarcastic remark: Do you suppose the murderer struck him with a bunch of briefs? They went over to the mantelpiece. A marble statuette of the goddess Minerva holding the scales of Justice propped the books up on the right side. It couldnt have been the murder weapon, though; it had a narrow base and both sides were carved and bumpy. Harper was thinking about the missing bookend; would it match the pathologists description, when Norton too, noticed that there was something odd about the mantelpiece: I wouldve thought sir, that with the mantelpiece full of books, he wouldve placed bookends at both ends. Harper looked at Norton in disbelief: Chris, would a learned man like Carlisle keep a mantelpiece full of books with only one bookend to support them? Robert Harrington knew nothing about a bookend: I dont remember the last time I went in his room, Inspector. We meet in the boardroom, we communicate by e-mail and by telephone and I send the briefs with my assistant. I hardly know what everyones room looks like. Ask his protg, George Mackenzie. Im sorry he had to walk into Hughs murdered body. I hope he soon recovers from the shock.

Georges glance fell on the mantelpiece as soon as he walked in the room. What was the other bookend like, Mr Mackenzie? It was the head of a Greek philosopher made of marble just like this one. The name Aristotle was written with jagged writing at the base. It was very heavy. The front was curved with the facial features, but the back of the head was flat.

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When was the last time you saw it? It was on the mantelpiece yesterday, Inspector. Norton was quick to anticipate what Harper was about to ask him: Ill tell the search team what to look for, sir. Harper tried to guess Georges age; He was probably older than he looked. A few strands of wavy hair across his forehead gave him the appearance of an adolescent. He was thin and his grey business suit wouldve looked better on an older person. His eyes were sad and he seemed lost in thought; he was still in shock naturally. Despite that, Harper decided to question him while the evens were vivid in his mind. He paced about the room stopping from time to time to throw a glance at the books on the shelves. When Norton came back he resumed the questioning: What time did you come in this room yesterday? On my way out at six-thirty I came in as usual to say that I was going home. He was on the phone and waved at me. If the books on the mantelpiece had collapsed, I wouldve noticed. He added, perhaps to convince Harper of Carlisles meticulousness: Mr Carlisle kept the books straight and the right way up. If the statuette was missing, he wouldve made a fuss. Yes, he would, Harper thought; Carlisle was an orderly man; the bookshelves were neatly arranged. He wouldve tidied up at the end of each day; he wouldve put away the books that were spread on the desk and he wouldve placed the chairs against the wall, underneath the windows. How long have you worked here, Mr Mackenzie? Harper asked. Just over four months. Tell me about this morning.

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When I saw Hugh lying on the floor, I didnt realize that he was dead; I thought hed fallen down the stairs and was hurt. When Margaret said he was dead, the feeling that came over me was the same feeling I had when my grandmother died when I was fourteen. Back then, I didnt hide my grief. Today, I had to try and stop myself from sobbing. You said that you joined the practice four months ago; you couldnt have known him that well. I knew of his reputation before I joined the practice. Getting to know someone, to feel the kind of grief you describe when they die, takes time. It was easy getting to know Hugh. And getting to love him as much as you loved your grandmother? Yes, that was easy, too. In Harpers opinion, the closeness George felt for Carlisle was greater than a relationship between a young person and his mentor. One wouldnt normally experience the kind of pain he described for a colleague after knowing them for only four months. He decided to question him about it. He wouldnt lapse procedures in a murder investigation, for any reason. What made you love him? He showed that he cared; he took an interest in my work. I understand that Mr Carlisle stayed in the office until late. Was he alone or did he have visitors? He was with someone nearly always. Did the employees know if anyone was visiting him after office hours?

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Yes. He wrote his name on the board by the front door and he also wrote how many were coming that evening, though not their names. Youll find the names in his diary, Inspector. He kept it in the top left-hand drawer of the desk. What about you? Did you go to his room after seven? Yes. He advised me on various cases that I was working on. And were you alone with him during those sessions? I went to see him alone to discuss my cases. At other times, I joined his discussion groups when the topics were of general interest. What were those topics about? About law and order, justice, doing the right thing, and what was the right thing to do in various circumstances; and about life in general. He was a philosopher then, as well as a lawyer. A sure way to influence people said Norton. Thats right, Sergeant. People came round to his way of thinking. Did you also go to his house? Harper persisted. Yes, a few times. What did you do there? Did you go to his house to talk? Harper sensed a tone of resentment in Georges voice: Inspector, Hugh Carlisle drew men and women near him because of his personality. They were attracted by his looks, his behaviour, his voice and his words. If Hugh was looking for sensual gratification, he wouldve found it. I doubt if he ever gave in to temptation, but I cant be sure. Then he said, perhaps in anticipation of Harpers next question: Who knows what wouldve happened had he lived.

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Who knows, Harper thought. He was taken aback by Georges candidness but tried to remain in control of the situation. You havent answered my question, Mr Mackenzie. What else apart from talking did you do in his house? Sometimes Hugh cooked dinner; he was a good cook. Sometimes we watched a video. Sometimes we browsed through his storage box where he kept souvenirs from his childhood. You said that Hugh Carlisle wasnt looking for sensual gratification. Lets suppose that he were. What would youve done if he wanted an affair with you? I cant imagine Hugh asking me or anyone to have an affair with him. Lets suppose that he did. Would youve refused his advances? I dont know; maybe I wouldnt. All the same, I consider your insinuations an insult to Hughs memory, Inspector. Your questioning is barely justified. Hugh would never make improper suggestions to men or to women. Harper now raised his voice and spoke vehemently: Then make me believe that he would never make improper suggestions to men or to women. Did he love you as much as you loved him? And if so, didnt he as much as touch you? Its important to establish Carlisles character. Id like to know the truth about your relationship. Our relationship was platonic, Inspector. Tell me about your platonic relationship. There isnt much to tell except that we were good friends. George seemed to be lost in thought again. Hes probably ready to talk, Harper thought; he lowered his voice and spoke gently: Tell me about the contents of his storage box. And how old are you?

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Im twenty-six years old; I fell in love with Hugh the moment I saw him. I often ask myself why I fell in love with him. Maybe it was the way he greeted me when we first met. I said, good morning, Im George Mackenzie. He got up from his chair and said: I have a feeling well get along fine. I hope to learn a few things from you; Im out of practice in my age. That wasnt true; he said it to make me feel good and it worked. We shook hands and my legs felt weak at the knees from his touch. I never told him I was attracted to him physically, though Im not sure if thats what I was, but now that hes dead, I wish I had. He could express his thoughts, ideas and feelings fluently; he was a very learned man. I think I first fell in love with his words and his voice. There was also something about his unassuming looks which appealed to me. Our relationship remained platonic. When I was alone with him in his house he was courteous. Once, I was sitting with him on the sofa, and I said something without thinking, like how I cherished our moments together. He put his arm on my shoulders and the movement brought us nearer; it made me want to hide my face least I betrayed my feelings. We were so close and he couldve touched me more. Why was he the way he was? Was it because, though separated from his wife he wasnt divorced? Maybe his religious background had something to do with that. He never actually said that he was religious but I noticed things. First, it was the storage box on a side table in his elegant drawing room. Hed put it on the coffee table in front of the sofa and take out the relics, as he called them, of his childhood. There were books, notebooks, bibles, and a crucifix. And a few icons which I thought were valuable but Hugh said they had sentimental value; his mother had given them to him. Everything reminded him of his life in the vicarage.

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I asked him why he became a lawyer. He said that when he was a child, he used to sit in the library of the vicarage for hours and listen to his father rehearse the sermons. His father chose the most effective words and varied the tone of his voice in order to impress the congregation. He also read biographies of saints. It so happened that some of the saints he read about had studied Law. He couldnt say for sure that the reason he decided to study Law was because they had done so, or because he liked his fathers style when he read out the sermons changing the words and phrases repeatedly. I asked him why he took so many notes. Because he found everything he read interesting, he said. He would underline passages just as one does when studying a subject for sitting an exam. By the time he was fourteen, he had read everything in that library. He explained that his schoolmates didnt share his interest in books so he didnt have any friends. But, he said, when he grew up, he found a way to make friends. His mother was involved in charity fund-raising, which instilled in him the belief early in life, that helping people in need was a worthwhile cause. So, he gave up his spare time for the benefit of others. He taught people to express themselves well and to develop a cultivated voice. His reward was the moral satisfaction which was worth more to him than the monetary value. But the biggest reward of all was that he was never without friends. We were sitting on the sofa again when he said this. He put his arm on my shoulders and with his hand he touched the back of my neck and ran his fingers through my hair. I didnt only feel my face turning read; I was trembling. I didnt know it at the time, but looking back now, I think he saw what was happening to me.

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He mustve realized what I was going through, because he quickly found a pretext to get up; he said: Ill see if dinners cooked. I also noticed something else which made me think he was probably religious. One day in September we walked to the shops together. He wanted to buy a birthday present for Anna. On the way, we passed a beggar, a guitar player and three Big Issue sellers and he gave them all some money. I asked him why he didnt take the magazine and he told me that he had it. He didnt say anything else, so having seen what was in the storage box I came to the conclusion that he was more than just a good man; he was also religious. And now, four months from the day when I trembled with emotion for shaking hands with him, hes dead. I dont think I shall ever recover from the shock of seeing his body at the bottom of the stairs. His death has brought on a feeling of insecurity in me. How can I go through life without him? I want to remember him sitting at his desk in his shirt sleeves, with his hair greying at the temples, and his half-spectacles resting at the tip of his nose. Around him, there would be some of his closest friends; I shall always be there, and so will Margaret, Matthew and Olivia. He would begin the talk with the words: this evening, the discussion will be ad lib. A few moments of silence passed, and then George said: Id like to think that he cared for me as much as I cared for him, Inspector. From what you said, I believe he did, Mr Mackenzie. Apart from you, did anyone from the practice go to his house without a third person there? Olivia Wilmot did; they were good friends. What else did you talk about with Hugh Carlisle, Mr Mackenzie? Did he talk to you about his family?

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He loved his daughter and talked about her, but he never mentioned his wife. Only once he told me that he didnt stand in the way of his wifes happiness, even when she decided to leave him for another man. I got the impression that he rated his ideals higher than his wifes love. What did you think of his views about justice? His attitude to justice was singular. He wouldnt take on a case if he found out that a client was deliberately planning to deceive; I endorse his principles, Inspector. He wasnt interested in earning a higher fee or in the glory of winning. George added jokingly: And no one could bribe him. Harper paced up and down the room again, throwing a glance at the books on the shelves: Hugh Carlisle was indeed an avid reader he remarked. He was, Inspector. He was always researching, studying and exploring new ways of presenting a case. Then he said, with a voice full of passion: He loved what he was doing. He saw it as a service to the public. I suppose you could say, like a priest sees his congregation. It was absurd to draw a comparison with a priest. Was it rational thinking for a lawyer not to be interested in earning a higher fee? At the moment though, Harper was looking for the motive: Are you on a permanent contract, Mr Mackenzie? No; there was no vacancy for a permanent contract. Then he added with a slight tone of embarrassment in his voice: There is now, of course. One last question, Mr Mackenzie: Where were you between eight and nine yesterday evening?

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At home with my girlfriend. As George opened the door to leave, Constable Russell was about to knock: We found the bookend in the next room, sir. The bookend matched the pathologists description of the murder weapon and it was found in Miss Wilmots room. Did she conspire with someone to murder Hugh Carlisle? Its possible, but unlikely, Harper thought; George Mackenzie said that Olivia Wilmot was one of Carlisles closest friends. He went to see Margaret: Please give me the key to Miss Wilmots room, and make sure both rooms are kept locked while our investigations are continuing. Will you also ask Miss Wilmot to see either myself or Sergeant Norton if she wants to go in her room? Yes, of course, Inspector. You may use the boardroom for the interviews. Thank you, Mrs Abbott. Id like to talk to the senior partners in their rooms. Will you ask them if they could see me now?

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Chapter five

An air of antiquity prevailed in Robert Harringtons room. The dark oak joinery, leather-topped desk and upholstered armchairs reminded Harper of a study in a grand house. This must be the room of a powerful man, he thought; Harringtons standing in society seems to be deep-rooted. He was sitting in a black leather armchair behind the desk, unnoticed in his dark suit but for his striking hair; it was snow-white and thick. Harrington sounded undaunted when he spoke: Do sit down both of you. On any other day these chairs wouldve been placed against the wall and my clients would drag them in front of the desk. The reason theyre in the right place today is because the cleaner didnt come in yesterday; Margaret told me that she had to leave early. Who knows, maybe Hugh would be alive today if she were here. Harrington continued with the same tone of indifference in his voice: I was planning to retire, Inspector. I planned my retirement several times in the past, but every time I came close to it, something happened to make me change my mind. As soon as one case was over, another long-standing client was asking for my support. And now this. It wont be easy to replace Mr Carlisle said Harper. Should we replace him? Do we need two resident barristers? Our clients like Olivia, and with George a certified advocate, the situation should endure for a while.

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The problem is Hughs clients; how can I persuade them that both Olivia and George are competent enough to deal with their cases? Harper tried to say something, but he couldnt get a word in edgeways. Before you start your questioning, Inspector, I want to tell you that I left the office at my usual time of six-thirty and that my wife and I spent the evening at home. We had fireworks and bonfires, and all our grandchildren came round; it was quite an evening. Harper was a little surprised at Harringtons eagerness to declare his alibi at the start of the interview. Most people waited to be asked before they disclosed their whereabouts at the time of a crime. This was especially so with lawyers; they never volunteered information. There was regret in Harringtons voice as he continued: Im sorry it turned out to be a different sort of evening for poor Hugh, Inspector; Ill miss him. In fact everyone here will miss him and I feel sad that ones luck runs out, though with Hugh, Im surprised it took so long. What do you mean, sir? The employees praised him; they thought of him as a man too good to be true. You could say that, Inspector; then again, being too good to be true doesnt always guarantee ones safety. There are some who couldnt put up with such a man. What about you, sir? Did you find it difficult to put up with him? Difficult or not, I did put up with him; he was a brilliant advocate. How long had he worked here? For about twenty-five years; he came as a newly qualified pupil attached to the Inner Temple. Unfortunately for him, he finished his pupilage when political correctness was at its peak. In his Chambers, there were two applicants and one

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vacancy. One of the applicants was a woman and as I said, it was politically correct to offer it to the woman even though Hugh was the better lawyer. Is there anything you can tell us about Mr Carlisle that will help us in our investigation? No, Inspector. What about his life outside the practice? I know nothing about his personal life, Inspector. Twenty-five years is a long time to work closely with someone and yet know nothing about their personal life. Lawyers prefer their personal life to remain private. From what Ive heard, Mr Carlisle was an exception; he encouraged people to get close to him. Well, Inspector, I did not encourage him to get close to me. Id consider it an intrusion in my privacy. Did Hugh Carlisle try to intrude in your privacy, Mr Harrington? You know very well that I dont have to answer all your questions, Inspector. If you feel that I must, then I shall bring in my lawyer. Harper compared George Mackenzies forthrightness with Harringtons uncooperativeness. Mackenzie sounded sincere; probably because hes inexperienced, he thought. On the other hand, Harrington is powerful; he doesnt have to be sincere. That wont be necessary, just yet. Did you approve of Hugh Carlisles approach to justice, Mr Harrington? No, Inspector, I did not. Hugh did not care about doing justice in a legal sense. For example, he wouldnt take on a case if he believed that the client did not deserve the defence. Some lawyers would call it stupidity.

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How did Mr Carlisles principles affect the practice? Were well-known, and have no fear or likelihood of losing our clients. Its quite the opposite, however, when a new practice is struggling to get established; they may not accept anyone with Hughs attitude, as a resident barrister. When was the last time you saw him? He knocked on my door on Tuesday afternoon. Joseph was with me and Hugh left, saying he would talk to me another time. What did Mr Weinberg come to see you about? He came to tell me that he was planning to take a couple of days off to go to a conference; the subject matter was fraud. Representatives from Customs and Excise and other key professionals were invited, and Joseph thought it was a good idea that someone from the practice should attend; he put himself forward. I have no objection, though I would prefer if a younger lawyer attended. Joseph should know all theres to know about every aspect of the law.

Joseph Weinberg was up-to-date with todays world. The fixtures and fittings in his room were similar to Harringtons, but in addition to the computer and the printer there were other gadgets of modern technology. There was a scanner, a television set mounted on the wall opposite the desk, and a few pieces of equipment, no doubt necessary for the running of a legal practice. He was probably in his mid-fifties. He had a permanent frown and a cold stare, as if to say that he was always busy and under pressure. Harper got the impression that he did not want to talk to them. Maybe, he was putting it on, this manner that said he was too busy to talk to them, because he had something to hide.

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Weinberg hadnt bothered to put his jacket on. He greeted them with a nod and pointed to chairs opposite him. Its a sad state of affairs, Inspector. Im truly sorry about Hugh even though we didnt see eye to eye in business matters. Tell me what he was like in business, Mr Weinberg. Inspector, the word meant nothing to Hugh. He lived in an unreal world, a world that few people, if any, identify with, today. For this reason I tried not to do business with him if I could help it. And could you help it? We werent obliged to give him briefs just because he was our resident barrister. He shook his head in disapproval: but the clients asked for Hugh. Did his principles get in your way and thats why you disliked him? I did not dislike him, Inspector; and his principles did not get in my way, though I wish he kept them out of the practice. I prefer to do business with people who have the same opinions as me. Hugh also preferred the company of those who shared his views. He pushed the rest aside. Ask anyone. How long have you worked here, Mr Weinberg? About fifteen years. Did you join the practice as a junior partner? I came in as a senior from the start. In case youre curious to know why, Inspector, Hugh was offered the position but he turned it down. He was more interested in his intellectual pursuits than in the financial rewards. Why did you oppose Mrs Abbotts suggestion to install a security lock? Its an unnecessary expense. We managed without it for years. If a security lock had been installed, Mr Carlisle could be alive today.

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Thats conjecture, Inspector. Where were you yesterday evening between eight and nine? I was at home with my wife. Our live-in helpers, a cleaner and a gardener, wife and husband from the Philippines, would testify to it.

Harper and Norton went in the boardroom to discuss, amongst other things, the interviews and the comments which the employees had sent in with their statements. Its too soon to draw conclusions, but so far, I cannot detect a strong enough motive for murder said Harper. Harrington put up with Carlisle for twenty-five years; maybe he had enough. Both Harrington and Weinberg criticized him for his unbusiness like approach, but then they care for the financial return of the practice. Despite that, I think Carlisles murder is an inside job. What makes you think so, sir? It looks like an inside job, Chris; the murderer had keys; he knew where to find Carlisles room and he knew that there were two heavy bookends on the mantelpiece. He probably knew that the cleaner would leave early, and that Carlisle wouldnt be holding a seminar on Wednesday evening. On the other hand, it seems unlikely that an employee wouldve had the heart to strike him with such ferocity; a hired killer however, would. Are you saying that a member of staff or a partner let the murderer into the building, and when everyone had left, he somehow got hold of the bookend, stood outside Carlisles room, and waited for him to come out to kill him? Yes, something like that. What we need to find out, Chris, is exactly how a hired killer came to know that there were bookends on the mantelpiece.

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Harringtons opinion that Carlisle was a good man and a great lawyer seems to be in accord with what Mrs Abbott told us about him, sir. Thats right, Chris. Its obviously not Weinbergs opinion of him. Do you suspect Weinberg, sir? Everybody is a suspect until the real culprit is caught. Try to remember that. Carlisle was an extraordinary man, sir. What lawyer wouldnt take on a case for the money or for the satisfaction of winning? A visionary; someone who aspires to high principles. Ive never met one and I wish Id met Carlisle. Maybe a jealous lover killed him. Its unlikely that a lover wouldve killed him at his place of work. Besides, if we believe Mackenzie and so far, Ive no reason to doubt him Carlisle did not have lovers. But lets not assume; Mackenzie knew him for only four months. Well have a better idea about his private life, when we speak to others who were close to him for some years. He exerted great influence on everyone who came near him. Carlisle won people over with words; he used his ability sensibly and for worthwhile purposes. Do you think that the motives revenge? Revenge rates high as a motive for murder, but in this case, the motive may not be revenge. Do you still believe there was a flaw in Carlisles character? Yes. Then again, if he was flawless, as indeed he appears to be, there may be some who wouldnt put up with such a man, just as Harrington said. His principles didnt concern anyone but himself.

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Maybe his principles got in someones way; maybe they stopped someone from becoming wealthy. I suppose someone asked for his help and he turned them down. Surely, sir, lawyers dont have to accept every case that comes their way. True. Thats why I suspect whoever asked him for help was close to him; an employee perhaps, or a client he knew well. Do you think it was a robbery thats gone wrong? If Mrs Abbott had found the front door open in the morning, wed suppose that an intruder had walked in last night. She said the door was locked when she arrived. Besides, the murderer didnt take his wallet with his credit cards and his cash; and his keys are in his desk drawer. Maybe Carlisle was mixed up in crime. Thats whats in my mind, was he mixed up in crime? If we believe what everyone has been telling us about him, Carlisle wouldnt have been mixed up in crime. In fact he comes across just like a saint; if theres a heaven and hell, Carlisle would be in heaven. He paused for a few seconds and then he said reflectively: Do you believe in the afterlife, Chris? What do you think happens to us? No one knows, sir. There are some who say they know. Im not religious, sir. Id like to know what secrets the storage box holds. Neither Mrs Abbott or George Mackenzie saw anything in it that mayve influenced Carlisles character and lifestyle. Maybe Olivia Wilmot saw something in it.

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Hopefully, well find out from her and from his friends who went to his house. Someone is bound to tell us something. His estranged wife may tell us more. Id like to see whats in that box. Mrs Abbott said that her husband and Carlisle were close friends. We must talk to him as soon as possible. In the meantime, start interviewing the staff, Chris. Ask Russell to sit with you. And must I remind you that by asking them seemingly trivial questions, youre helping them to recall an incident that may have faded from memory. A small detail, crucial to the investigation, would only come to mind if you keep asking them one question after another. He left Sergeant Norton to deal with some of the interviews and made his way to the Station, to read the pathologists report of the autopsy which was e-mailed earlier. As he passed through the hall he saw the receptionist Lucy Andrews sitting at her desk, and it looked as if she had been crying. He instinctively began to walk towards her, but at the last moment he changed his mind. He was in a hurry, and decided to leave it to Norton to question her.

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Chapter six

Chris Norton was twenty-six years old, with inconspicuous good looks and an athletic body. He never neglected his daily workout at the police exercise centre. He was single, and lived in a studio flat in North London which he bought as a reward to himself when he attained the rank of Detective Sergeant of the Metropolitan Police. He had been working with Inspector Harper for a year. It didnt take him long to get used to his idiosyncrasies. He knew when he meant to be offensive, which was rare, and when he was making light-hearted fun of him. In spite of Harpers frequent ironic remarks he respected him and put up with his gentle patronizing. He looked upon him almost as a father figure. Almost, because he was close to his own father, whom he only saw at Christmas if he was lucky to have the day off, on occasional weekends, and for a few days during his annual leave. His parents lived on the borders near Hadrians Wall, which wasnt the place he would choose for a holiday. He was to interview two members of staff; the cleaner Susan Brown and the receptionist Lucy Andrews. If the barrister Olivia Wilmot arrived before Harper had returned from the Station, he was to start the interview but by no means let her leave; Harper too, wanted to ask her a few questions. After checking with the key holders that no one had lost or temporarily misplaced their keys recently or at any other time, he went to the boardroom with Russell to begin the interviews.

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Two uniformed officers had brought Susan Brown from her day job in the dining hall of the school where her children attended. I cant believe that Mr Carlisles dead she said as she entered the boardroom. I saw him at eight. Someone killed him just as I walked out of the door. Norton assessed her appearance; she would be about thirty-five and five foot six; she had short dark hair, brown eyes, and a slim, toned up body. She looked fit and sporty in her navy tracksuit. Probably, Mrs Brown. Please sit down. Im Detective Sergeant Norton and this is Detective Constable Russell. I wont keep you long. I understand that youll be collecting your children from school shortly. Thats alright, Sergeant. My friend will take them home with her. Norton believed that by looking at a person, he could more or less judge if that person could hit someone as strong as Carlisle with a marble bookend, and kill him with the first blow. He realized that this conclusion wasnt convincing on its own; he would bear it in mind however, if additional evidence emerged to confirm his suspicions. Detective Constable Russell would have an opinion on this. Russell too, was known to be a good judge of character, and could tell if someone was lying. He had written down what questions to ask her, lest he forgot something which might turn out to be important in the investigation. He was confident that the interview would be straightforward; but just in case, he wanted to be prepared. How long have you worked here, Mrs Brown? Three years. This is a huge building. How do you manage to clean it?

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I only hoover a couple of rooms, the reception area and the boardroom every day. I do some light dusting, empty the waste paper baskets and clean the washrooms. Professional cleaners come twice a month at the weekend to do a thorough job. What do you do if a room is due for cleaning, and someone is still working inside? Do they let you go in? Yes, apart from one person, they dont mind. Whos that person, Mrs Brown? Mr Weinberg wont even let me empty his waste paper basket. I wait until he goes, usually at the last minute. Couldnt you leave it until the next day? No, he doesnt like that; he complained to Mrs Abbott once. Norton didnt ask for information which, in his opinion, was unlikely to assist the investigation. This was Harpers style. For example: What did you have for breakfast? How long did it take you to eat a bowl of cereal, or how long did it take you to brush your teeth? He found it embarrassing to ask for such trifling details. Harper however, had no qualms about this kind of probing. What did you think of Mr Carlisle? I liked him; he was a gentleman. He always greeted me when he saw me and sometimes he asked me about my family. My children liked him too, and they never met him. She wiped her eyes with a tissue. Theyve got a shelf in their bedroom full of the books he gave them for Christmas and birthdays. Did you meet any of the people who came to see Mr Carlisle in the evening? Yes, I met a few. They went in the kitchen to make coffee and they talked to me if they saw me but they didnt introduce themselves. Sometimes it was just one person, George Mackenzie, who came to work here a few months ago, and sometimes

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there were as many as eight people with him. They took the chairs from Miss Wilmots room. I know the names of those who work here; they write it down on the board by the front door. What did Mr Carlisles visitors talk to you about? They asked me about my children; how theyre doing at school and what their interests are outside school. Her friendly face and prompt answers told Norton that she was reliable and trustworthy. She just didnt look like someone who could commit murder, or tell lies. She also appeared to be truly distressed. At the same time, he came to the conclusion that she did look strong enough to hit a man with a heavy bookend and kill him with the first blow. Tell me about yesterday. I arrived at my usual time, at seven. There were more people in the Square than normally, but I didnt stop to look at them. I was in a hurry to finish my work and go home; I went to watch the fireworks with my family. I saw from the Square that the light in the room on the first floor was on, but thats how it was, usually. Mr Carlisle was often here until late. I went in the kitchen in the basement and washed the cups that I found in the sink. Most people here wash their cups but some forget to do it. Then I hoovered the reception and I picked up any scraps of paper and other bits and pieces that were lying around. I cleaned the ladies washroom on the first floor and the mens on the third. Thats all I had time to do. Did you go inside any of the rooms? I went in Mr Carlisles room. I knew that Catherine Weston was in her room on the fourth floor because her name was on the board but I didnt go as far as there.

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As I said, I went to clean the mens washroom on the third floor. On my way down, I used the stairs. Mr Carlisles door was open and I saw him sitting at his desk. I went in and emptied his waste-paper basket. I left at eight, precisely. I unlocked the front door with the Chubb but I didnt set the alarm; I stepped outside and locked the door. What was going on in the Square at eight? There were more people than earlier. I glanced quickly around and saw that they were youngsters; it looked like they were drinking and carrying fireworks. I didnt hang around Sergeant. I hurried to the station to get the train home as soon as possible. My husband is a lorry driver and hes rarely home early. The questioning was going well. Norton was glad for the opportunity to prove to Harper that he could be trusted to get to the whole truth. He had sat with him at numerous interviews and was confident in his ability; nothing could possibly go wrong. What time did you get on the train and what time did you arrive home? I was on the platform at Holborn at eight-ten. I saw the time on the destination sign. The train came almost immediately. I got off at Bethnal Green at eight twenty-four and I was at home at around eight-forty. Does anyone in your house have access to your keys for Harrington Lewis? No, Sergeant. Who stays with your children in the evening? My mother-in-law. She lives nearby. Did you lose or misplace your keys recently or at any other time? No.

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At this point, Norton checked his notes and couldnt think of anything else to ask. She was there, almost there when he died. The murderer unlocked the door with his own set of keys and walked in as soon as she had left. Thank you, Mrs Brown. If you remember anything else please phone me. Norton watched her as she stood up to leave, and formed the opinion for a second time, that she was strong enough to hit a man and kill him with one blow; there was no alibi. Whats more, even if she had left five minutes later, she could have arrived at home by eight-forty. Maybe I should check the timetable of the trains to Bethnal Green, he thought.

Lucy Andrews was small and slender with long blond hair and blue eyes; she didnt look old enough to be in full time employment. When Norton saw her, he got the impression that she had been crying. She was edgy; she kept fidgeting with her hands. It was clear that she wasnt looking forward to the interview. He supposed that the employees would be glad for the opportunity to talk about Carlisle, provided of course that they had good words to say about him. On the other hand, perhaps Miss Andrews didnt have good words to say about him. Did that mean she wished him dead, and if the truth came out in the interview, she would be a suspect? His first thought was to follow his instinct and wait for Harper; however, he decided against it because he really had no excuse not to question her. Unless one did not give an alibi, Harper expected him to get on with the interview. Lucy had signed a statement verifying where she was between eight and nine, and had also provided an alibi, but as a receptionist, she may have noticed something which could only come to light in the interview; he had no other option but to question her.

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He decided to keep to the questions he had written down; if he asked her why she had been crying, she might start crying again. Obviously, the events of the day were the reason for her distress. Please sit down, Miss Andrews. Im Detective Sergeant Norton and this is Detective Constable Russell. Lucy kept staring at the table. It looked as if she was deliberately trying to avoid his glance. Miss Andrews, Hugh Carlisles murder was a shock to all who knew him. We want to find out if anyone saw anything that will help us catch his murderer. So please, try to answer my questions. Lucy nodded. How long have you worked here, Miss Andrews? Two years. Please try to speak up, Miss Andrews. Did you say two years? Yes. Did you come straight after your GCSEs? Yes. Did Mr Carlisle talk to you as he passed by the reception? Lucy didnt answer. He began to regret not waiting for Harper. Perhaps his question wasnt clear enough and he repeated it explicitly: Did he say good morning, or hello, or did he ignore you? Lucy said something but Norton couldnt make out what it was. What did you day, Miss Andrews? I said he never ignored me. So, you liked him.

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She nodded, and continued to stare at the table. The danger now was that if he lost his patience, hed end the interview too quickly, and before he asked her all the questions he should ask her. He decided to persevere; he could pretend that he was the Inspector, and ask one trifling question after another. Did anyone come in during the last two years who looked suspicious? No. Did anyone come in recently who looked suspicious? No. Did you notice anything suspicious yesterday? No. Was anyone ever hostile or threatening towards any of the employees? No. Did anyone come in recently without an appointment? Yes, I asked them to sign and write their address. She had brought the visitors book and gave it to Norton. Were you at your desk all the time? Yes. That cant be true, he thought. She mustve had a break at some point. He tried to think of a way to put the question to her without implying that she was lying. If he accused her of lying, shed probably shed more tears. He spoke softly: What time did you take your lunch hour yesterday? I didnt take a lunch hour yesterday. Norton waited for an explanation.

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Margarets assistant Jenny Hutton who takes over at reception when Im at lunch had a hair appointment. She added, with her voice barely audible: Ill take a double lunch hour one day next week. What time did you leave? Lucys voice was trembling: I left at six Norton now got the impression that she was frightened. He tried to reassure her that she neednt be afraid of his questioning: Miss Andrews, I have to ask you these questions, it is police procedure. Im not accusing you of anything. How did you get home, Miss Andrews? Lucy didnt answer. Did you go home by train? She said quietly: On my bike. When was the last time you saw Mr Carlisle? Now Lucy sobbed loudly, and said: I was at my desk yesterday when he came back from lunch. One more question, Miss Andrews. Where were you between eight and nine yesterday evening? I was at home with my mum until eight-thirty. She stopped talking for a few moments and when she spoke again, it sounded as if she had memorized the words: My mum then went to my aunts house for the fireworks. I waited for my boyfriend and when he arrived shortly after eight-thirty we went to my aunts house together. Thank you, Miss Andrews; thats all for now.

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As she stood up to leave, Norton noted her expression and it seemed to him that it showed too much sorrow just for the death of a colleague. Then again, Lucy was young, only eighteen. Maybe she had never before come so close to someone who had died, or worse, was murdered.

They stayed in the boardroom to wait for Olivia Wilmot. While they waited, they discussed the interviews to see if they could clarify a few points. I think Mrs Brown is a reliable witness, Chris, and she gave honest answers. But in my opinion, she was overconfident. Russell didnt interrupt during the questioning, although Norton wished that he did. By interrupting to ask about something that hadnt occurred to him to ask, he could spare them an interview for a second, or even a third time. What do you mean, Paul? She didnt stop to think; her answers were hasty. If we find that they were short of the whole truth, itd probably be because she forgot and not because she tried to obstruct the investigation. What about Miss Andrews? I think Miss Andrews may have a good reason to be upset. I mean a reason other than because Carlisle is dead. Maybe she was crying for personal reasons. Maybe she was crying for personal reasons. Even so, we want to know what those reasons are. The problems young girls worry about are usually of a romantic nature. Miss Andrews said that she went to the fireworks party with her boyfriend, therefore romance may have nothing to do with it. What do you suggest we do? Ask her for an interview again?

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It will help us to clarify the situation. Ill ask Harper. There were no sounds coming from outside; the commotion in the Square had ended and they stood by the window to see what was going on. Outside Harrington Lewis, the area was still cordoned off and a Constable was standing at the front door. The TV and other media crews had now left, though some members of the public still lingered about. I suppose those still here knew him well; they leave cards and a bunch of flowers said Norton. They were probably his clients. Maybe they didnt believe what they heard on the news; that Carlisle, whom they held high in their estimation, was now dead. While they stood by the window, they saw Lucy coming out of the front door and walking towards the bicycle bay. Then, they saw Harrington, close behind her, stopping to talk to her as she was about to ride. He spoke a few words and Lucy started to cry. Harrington took her hand in his obviously to comfort her, and then stood and watched her as she cycled away. A feeling of anxiety came over Norton, and he couldnt explain what brought it on. Harringtons gesture of compassion seemed genuine but why did he single her out? All employees were upset. Was it a coincidence that he came out as she was leaving? And why was she crying again? Perhaps this anxiety came over him because of Lucys interview; should he let her go home? What if she hadnt told them the truth? He quickly dismissed the thought; why would she lie? She said that she liked Carlisle and wanted his murderer caught. He had to admit that Russell was right, they should talk to her again, but he decided that if necessary, they could go and talk to her in her house.

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As they stood and watched Lucy cycle away, they saw Mark Hawthorne, a forensic psychologist with the Metropolitan Police. Was he Carlisles friend or client? Was he here in an official capacity? Norton wasnt sure if he should let him come in; perhaps he should ask Harper. His concerns proved groundless; Mark Hawthorne didnt go up to the Constable at the front door, to ask if he could go inside. He opened his briefcase and took out a bunch of flowers and a card. He placed them with the rest of the messages, and then glanced towards Carlisles room for a few moments before leaving.

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Chapter seven

Sergeant Norton didnt think that Olivia Wilmot would come to the interview dressed in her robes. However, when he saw her, he was taken by surprise. She was wearing a stylish suit which enhanced her model-like figure and her dark, almost black, glossy hair was cut in a square bob and covered her forehead with a fringe. Would anyone as attractive as her turn into an aggressive human being in court? Just for a moment, he forgot why he was there. Just for a moment, Olivia too, forgot why she was there. Norton got the impression that she was confused; she looked around her as if she wasnt sure if she had come to the right place. She must be accustomed to meeting and talking with police officers, he thought; she interviews them in court. Maybe she found it unnerving that an officer was going to interview her. Then she noticed Constable Russell and she seemed to remember; an expression of sadness showed on her face. When Norton regained his composure he tried to speak: Please He faltered, so he started again: Please sit down, Miss Wilmot. Im Detective Sergeant Norton and this is Detective Constable Russell. Im sorry you had to come back as soon as you started your weeks leave. We need your fingerprints for elimination purposes. Of course, Sergeant. Id like to be of help in catching Hughs murderer. How long have you worked here, Miss Wilmot?

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About five years. I came straight after my pupilage. Did you and Mr Carlisle meet socially? Hugh was a friend of mine. We used to go out for a meal, to see a show or visit a gallery. Should he ask her if she was in love with Carlisle? She wouldnt be, he thought; she was young and beautiful and he was old enough to be her father. Even if he was in love with her, he wouldnt have tried to seduce her; that wouldve been a flaw in the character of a man of principles. What was he like as a friend, Miss Wilmot? Very good company. Ill miss him not only because I lost a companion to the places I mentioned, not only because he was very well-informed on many subjects and not just in law, Ill miss him because I liked him; he was a good man and I feel sad that hes no longer here. What did you think of his views about justice? I did not always agree with his views. Hugh wouldnt give up on a cause even if his life was in danger. When was the last time you saw him? We had lunch together on Tuesday. Did he seem worried to you? Did you get the impression that he was concerned about anything? I sensed a slight absent-mindedness which was unlike Hugh. He said that he had to write and send a report to Customs and Excise about something which had come to his attention in the last couple of days; I didnt ask him what it was. Miss Wilmot, the murder weapon was found in your room. Do you always leave your room unlocked when youre away?

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Yes, unless I have sensitive papers lying around. Can you think of anyone, a disgruntled client perhaps, who wanted to incriminate you just for revenge, and left the murder weapon in your room? No, Sergeant. My clients feel indebted to me Did you lose or misplace your keys recently or at any other time? No. Where were you yesterday evening between eight and nine? At the Royal Opera House with my parents and a few others. We were a group of ten. I took the week off to do some research and at the same time to fulfil some social obligations. I wrote down for you the names and addresses of the whole group. Thank you, Miss Wilmot. Please let us know if you need to go in your room while our investigations are continuing. I will, Sergeant. Ill be back next Wednesday and hopefully you wouldve made an arrest by then. I wont say its wishful thinking.

When Harper entered the boardroom he was surprised to see Sergeant Norton and Olivia Wilmot engrossed in a handshake just like old friends. Olivia was about to leave. Obviously, Norton couldnt be trusted to follow orders. Miss Wilmot? Im Inspector Harper. Please sit down. He turned to Russell: You may go, Russell. He read the notes of the interview and then spoke to Olivia: Miss Wilmot, you told Sergeant Norton that Mr Carlisle had to write and send a report to Customs and Excise, but he didnt tell you what that report was about.

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Have you any idea what it mightve been about? I wish now I quizzed him about it; he did look preoccupied. I noticed that he was worried on Monday afternoon, when I came back from court. He had gone to see Mr Harrington and it couldve been important because Hugh didnt leave his room to go and discuss small matters. Did you talk to him then? I said jokingly: whats up. He said that he had to talk to Mr Harrington but Mr Weinberg was with him; he said hed see him another time. Why do you think he didnt want to talk to him with Mr Weinberg there? I suppose it wasnt a matter that concerned the practice. Olivias striking looks led Harper to believe that some intrusive questioning was called for. What was really her relationship with Carlisle? They saw each other socially; they went to the theatre and visited galleries together. Were their feelings for each other, more than just feelings of friendship? Above all, what were his feelings towards her? There was but one way to find out: Did you find Hugh Carlisle attractive, Miss Wilmot? Olivia answered without hesitation: I found him very attractive, Inspector. He had plenty of sex appeal which came from his intellectual qualities as well as from his looks. He wasnt handsome in the conventional sense; he had what the French call je ne sais quoi. And I found his generosity appealing. Miss Wilmot, was Hugh Carlisle more than just a good friend? Inspector, if I ever entertained any thoughts about having an affair with Hugh, it wouldve been in vain. Our relationship was platonic. Hugh wasnt interested in love affairs.

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Are you saying that he turned down everyone who wanted to have a romantic relationship with him? Yes, he did. Why do you think Mr Carlisle wasnt interested in love affairs? I dont know. I find it hard to believe that anyone could be so detached from the real world. Maybe it was because the others wouldve resented him for it. Resented him for it? Why, Miss Wilmot? Surely, an unattached man can have an affair without causing resentment? Inspector, every one in the discussion groups was in love with Hugh. To single someone out for an affair wouldve caused resentment. What about you? Were you in love with him, Miss Wilmot? I dont know if what I felt was true love or infatuation. Im sure though, if Hugh wanted to have an affair with me, I wouldnt have turned him down. Did you tell Hugh Carlisle how you felt about him, Miss Wilmot? Olivia didnt answer. Ill rephrase that; did he know that you were in love with him? Olivia remained silent. Miss Wilmot, you do want us to arrest his murderer? Yes, of course, Inspector. Then tell me everything you can tell me about Hugh Carlisle. It will help me to form an opinion about his character. Id like to know how he treated those close to him. You were close to him, werent you, Miss Wilmot? I was as close as anyone could be with Hugh. Harper waited and she continued: I did tell him, Inspector. I confessed my love to him. He wasnt interested.

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He said ours was an everlasting friendship. Why spoil it? I dont know what the matter was with him, Inspector. Was that normal behaviour for a man of our times? When I first came to work here, we met in public places; we had lunch together and sometimes a drink after work. We were never alone; though looking back now, I think nothing would have stopped us if we both wanted to start an affair. When Veronica left him I thought something might happen. I was often alone with him in his house but he never made the first move. So, one night, when we were sitting together on the sofa, I moved closer to him and kissed him. I shall never forget that moment, Inspector; I felt the warmth of his body. And as our lips touched, Hugh held me close to him for a few moments, but only for a few. Then he let go of me. Why, I asked him. Because I value our friendship, he said. I hope itll be for ever. Did you resent him for not wanting to have an affair with you? No, Inspector. How would you feel if you found out that Mr Carlisle was having an affair with someone in the discussion groups? I suppose I would be jealous, or upset, or maybe even resentful. But I wouldnt have killed him or conspired with someone to have him killed. Did you browse through the contents of his storage box? I did; I flicked through the notebooks and read some of the notes. I saw the icons, the bibles and the biographies of saints. I can only suppose that the contents of the box are remnants of a lifestyle he obviously didnt want to forget. Just like many people who remember their childhood lovingly, Inspector, Hugh was attached to the vicarage and his family as a child. I havent read the books, so I cant tell you anything about them.

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Whats your opinion of Mr Weinberg? He wouldnt hesitate to tamper with the evidence to win a case.

Harper walked up and down the room with his hands behind his back, contemplating what Miss Wilmot said about Carlisles attitude towards intimate relationships. Judging by what everyone he had spoken to so far had said, he had no doubt that her portrayal of his character was accurate. She was also sincere about her own feelings towards Carlisle, but what about the feelings of the audience in his discussion groups? What kind of people were they? Were they highly opinionated extremists who

wouldnt hesitate to do harm for their beliefs? Were they political radicals? What did they think of his comments on the topics of discussion? What if they disagreed? Would they be so subjective, that they would take offence and seek revenge? As a barrister, Miss Wilmot should have sharp powers of observation. Her information would be enlightening. Miss Wilmot, it would help the investigation if you told us something about the discussions Mr Carlisle held in his room. Could you tell us who his guests were in one particular evening and what exactly they talked about? Yes, of course, Inspector. When was the last time you attended? Last Thursday. There were eight of us; it was a full house. How did Mr Carlisle choose his audience? Was it by invitation? The meetings were well-organized; everything was planned weeks in advance. Hugh decided on the topic of discussion and then he sent out the e-mails to see how many wanted to take part. When they had all replied, he allocated so many evenings to the same topic. Then he e-mailed those who were interested, to confirm

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the date. Sometimes the discussions were ad lib and in that case there was no need for all this planning in advance. Do you remember the names of those present last Thursday? This time men were the majority; five men and three women. Myself and George Mackenzie, Judith Walsh, a teacher of English, Caroline Moore, a retired civil servant in the immigration department, Ian Frazer, a classics expert, Michael Higgins, a Law lecturer, James Taylor, a priest from Botswana, and Mark Hawthorne, a forensic psychologist. You may know him; I believe hes based at your Station, Inspector. Yes, I know him. Tell me, Miss Wilmot, what was the procedure? First, we set up our chairs in a horseshoe shape, facing Hugh as he sat in his chair behind his desk. He asked if all of us had understood the topic for discussion, and if there was anything we wanted explained. He asked each one of us in turn. It was rare that someone had nothing to say, but in that case, the next one in line spoke. Then, he asked about our comments; we looked forward to that because we all wanted to voice our opinion. Again we all spoke in turn, in an orderly manner, but when the pace got faster Hugh took over the discussion. He went over the comments we made and showed how he would express the same point by using more effective words. What was the topic of discussion last Thursday? It was one of Platos Socratic dialogues; Phaedo. What was that about? In this dialogue, Plato records the conversation between Socrates and his friends who went to visit him in prison on the last day of his life. Plato describes Socrates death when he drinks the poison, the hemlock. Would such a topic be of interest to his usual audience?

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Everyone who received the e-mail wanted to take part. Do you remember the comments? I remember some; George Mackenzie spoke first. He didnt actually make a comment; Hugh asked him to remind us of what happened at Socrates last moments. Tell us what happened at his last moments, Miss Wilmot. Earlier in the day, Socrates wife Xanthippe went to see him with the baby and his two older boys and with the women of his household. When they left, his friends joined him again, and he resumed his discussion with them. It was nearly coming up to sunset when the Officer of the Eleven Harper interrupted: The Officer of the Eleven, Miss Wilmot? They were The Police Commissioners of Athens, Inspector. Please continue, Miss Wilmot. The Officer of the Eleven went in and said: I shant reproach you as I do the others, Socrates. Theyre angry and curse me when I tell them to drink the poison; I only obey the orders of my superiors. Youre not like the others; I know that youre the noblest, the gentlest man who has come here. I know you will not make trouble for me. Farewell and try to endure what you must, as easily as possible. The officer was crying as he turned away, and Socrates looked at him and said: Farewell to you also, I shall do as you say. And then he said to his friends: How genuinely this man weeps for me. For as long as Ive been here, he came and talked to me from time to time. We shall obey him, Crito. Ask him to bring the poison. When the man went in the cell with the poison in a cup, Socrates asked him: Well, my good man, youre an expert in this, what must I do? And the man replied: Just drink it and walk around until your legs feel heavy, and then lie down and it will work by itself.

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Harper interrupted her again: And we know that he did, Miss Wilmot. Yes, Inspector. Olivia continued: Socrates drank the poison and walked around the cell; when his legs were heavy he lay on his back. The man who had given him the poison touched his body; first he pressed hard on his foot and asked him if he could feel it, and Socrates said that he couldnt. Then he pressed various parts all the way up his body, and showed Socrates friends who were watching that they were cold and stiff; the man said that when the cold reached the heart he would be dead. When the cold reached his abdomen Socrates spoke to Crito. He said: Crito, we owe a cock to Asclepius, dont forget to make the offering. Those were his last words. Why did he say that? Sick people who slept in the temples of Asclepius sacrificed a cock to him hoping for a cure. What a sad end to a wise man, Miss Wilmot. We scrutinized the dialogue; we talked about what parts of it we agreed or disagreed with and we made comparisons with the way the same situation would be dealt with today. Can you tell us some of the comments? It was my turn to speak next. I thought it was cruel to keep Socrates in prison with chains around his leg. Surely, the law enforcers in Athens knew of his character, and had no fear that he was going to try and escape? So, he wasnt executed immediately after his trial? No. His trial took place the day before the ship sailed from Athens for its annual mission to the island of Delos. Theseus had sailed to Crete in that ship carrying seven men and seven women as an offering to the Minotaur. Theseus saved them and

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vowed to Apollo to send a mission to Delos every year. Until the ship came back, the city had to remain pure; no executions were to take place. Sometimes it took months for the ship to return; it depended on how the wind was blowing. His chains were removed in the morning of the day he was to be executed. Did you have support for your argument? Yes, of course, Inspector. Everyone agreed that the punishment was severe. They kept a man chained, a man who would never, under any circumstances try to escape. However, there was also another argument about this. Michael Higgins, the Law lecturer, argued that Socrates would have insisted on being chained anyway, not only because he wouldnt accept preferential treatment; he wanted to uphold the laws of the city. What did you think? I agreed. His argument was consistent with Socrates character. So, you understand now Inspector, what it was like to spend an evening in Hughs room. Were there any other comments? Ian Frazer, the classics expert, praised Socrates because he put his time to good use, and wrote poetry during the few months he spent in prison. First, he composed an ode to Apollo to thank the god because it was his festival that delayed his execution; then he put into verse some of Aesops fables. Ian Frazer admired Socrates strength of character in that his awaiting fate did not demoralize him. Tell me about James Taylor. What was a priest from Botswana doing in Hugh Carlisles seminars? Hes more than just a priest. He calls himself James Taylor in public so that he doesnt have to spell his real name every time he uses it. Ill write it down for you. He travels to and fro between Britain and Botswana, he lectures in Theology as a

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profession, and he has at least three PhDs on various subjects all connected to some religious theme or other. What was his comment? He approved of the way Socrates convinced two of his friends that the soul does continue to exist after it leaves the body at death. They argued that even though the soul exists in the body while the body is alive, it no longer survives after death. Its destroyed and dissolves on the day a person dies. A perpetual subject for debates, Miss Wilmot. Mark Hawthorne thought highly of Socrates optimism in that after death, he was going to join the company of good men. That was the reason he wasnt resentful of dying; he believed that theres future after death, a much better future for the good than for the wicked. Indeed, Miss Wilmot, we hope so. Caroline Moore spoke of Socrates comments about the body; as long as we have a body, we shall never reach the truth; it seems that our body keeps us busy because it needs maintenance to thrive. The body and its necessities cause wars, civil disputes and battles, for all wars are due to the wish to acquire wealth and its the body and the care of it which force us to acquire wealth. Socrates was a visionary, Miss Wilmot. Judith Walsh, the teacher of English, noted a comment by Socrates, which she thought was perfect; that to express oneself badly isnt only faulty as far as the language goes; it does some harm to the soul. Its a shame educators dont take note of this comment, Miss Wilmot. Hugh talked about Socrates vision of the afterlife. When the dead arrive at the place in the depths of the earth where their guardian spirit brings them, theyre

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first judged as to whether theyve led a good and moral life. According to the seriousness of their sins theyre redeemed or not. Those whore judged to have lived a virtuous life are freed and released; they make their way up and live on the surface of the earth. Those who adopted the principles of philosophy as a way of life make their way to pure dwelling places and live in the future without a body. Those whore judged to be guilty of crimes make their way to Hades. What an extraordinary vision of the afterlife, Miss Wilmot. When we had all finished making our comments, he went through each one, and added his own explanation. He used words which no one, including myself, would have thought of using. George was lucky to have one to one tutorials with Hugh. So, the audience fell in love with his words and his voice. He had a beautiful voice, Inspector. Had Mr Carlisle chosen a new topic for discussion? It was going to be Platos Trial of Socrates. Due to the number of people who wanted to attend, Hugh had decided to give the lecture in the pub we usually go to, in Holborn. Everybody was looking forward to it. When Olivia stood up to leave, her eyes were filled with tears. At the moment it doesnt look as if Im going to get over his death, Inspector. I miss him terribly; I shall never forget him or his beautiful voice. So, this was Carlisle; a lawyer, preacher and philosopher, a lover of everything noble and gracious. Harper was convinced now, that if those present that evening were typical of the audience in the discussions, the murderer was unlikely to be among them.

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Why would a man, a single man, refuse the advances of an attractive woman, Chris? asked Harper. I use the word single to mean without a partner and as the opposite of married; had he sworn to remain celibate just because his wife left him? If that was the reason, it doesnt make sense; even if he were madly in love with his wife, having an affair wouldve eased his grief. It would have, sir. Miss Wilmot is very attractive. I can think of two reasons why a single man would refuse to have sexual relationships with an attractive woman; the first reason is that hes impotent or has some other ailment which stops him from having intimate liaisons. And the second, that hes gay. That sounds unlikely, sir. You remember what Mackenzie told us. What then? Shes a single woman and whats more she fancied him. What could be more normal than that? What was his excuse? Hes old enough to be her father, sir. An affair with Miss Wilmot wouldve been a flaw in his character; the flaw were looking for; wouldnt it? No Chris, it wouldnt. He was probably religious; the proofs in his storage box. Theres more to it than that; there are people who keep their childhood relics in a cardboard box throughout their life. Carlisle, like many others, was attached to his family; his box was full of memories. On the other hand, how many people do you know whod show that box to their guests time after time, and ask them to browse through its contents? His behaviour amounts to an obsession, in my opinion. Was it a coincidence that Carlisle chose Socrates last day as a discussion topic at the last seminar before he died, sir?

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It was a coincidence but the similarities are clear. Socrates had a strong sense of duty towards the laws and regulations of the state, and wouldnt violate those laws even when he knew that death awaited him. Similarly, Carlisles sense of duty may have been the reason for his murder. Maybe his principles got in someones way; he wouldnt take on a case if he thought that a client did not deserve the defence. Whats more, he wouldnt give up on a cause even if his life was in danger. Do you think Carlisle knew that his life was in danger? Even if he did, he wouldve done what he saw as the right thing. Whoever struck those blows was evil. How did an evil person get close to a man like Carlisle? I think we shouldve a word with Hawthorne. What does a forensic psychologist do apart from prying into peoples souls? He creates profiles of criminals and analyzes their minds to find out why they committed the crime. I saw him earlier. He came up to the front door to leave a card and a bunch of flowers. I expect hell be as devastated as Mackenzie. Theres someone among those we spoke to, who either aided the murderer or committed the murder. At the same time, also according to those we spoke to, Carlisle had no enemies. Yet, his murder was premeditated. A forensic psychologist may be useful in this case.

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Chapter eight

The autopsy report confirmed that Carlisle had died with the first blow and that the time of death was between eight and eight-thirty. Harper and Norton went in the boardroom to wait for Catherine Weston, to discuss the report, and to read through the notes of the interviews. They checked that the statements the partners and staff had signed verified their whereabouts at the time of the murder, and that the alibis they supplied could be followed up. Catherine Weston, the financial accountant, was the only member of staff who couldnt supply the address or telephone number of her dinner date. When Catherine Weston entered the boardroom Harper immediately noticed something about her he could not explain. It wasnt her looks or the clothes she was wearing; it was something to do with her character. Although he could tell character by looking at a persons face, he couldnt describe what exactly it was that he saw in her face. He had no doubt however, that by the end of the interview, he could pass judgement on Catherine Westons personality. Please sit down, Miss Weston. Im Detective Inspector Harper and this is Detective Sergeant Norton. How long have you been working here? Eight years. What did you think of Mr Carlisle? I hardly saw him; we communicated by e-mail.

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Didnt you join his discussion groups in the evening? I went once, when I first started here. Just once? They didnt discuss financial matters, Inspector. Who do you report to, on financial matters? Mr Weinberg wants to know the cash flow day by day, and I give him the bank balance every morning. What do you think of Mr Weinberg? Not a day goes by when he doesnt criticize my work. He looks for errors and when he doesnt find them, he imagines them. You say in your statement that between eight and nine yesterday evening you had dinner at Chez Marcos, that the name of your dinner companion was John Barker and that you cant get in touch with him. Thats right. The mobile number he gave me is wrong. And I cant get through to the number he used when he phoned me. Let me have that number Miss Weston and tell me about John Barker. How long have you known him? Not long, Inspector. I met him less than a month ago, and yesterday evening was the second time I saw him. How did you meet him? I received an invitation for a course organised by Customs and Excise. It was free and it seemed a good idea to update myself on taxation. By coincidence, John Barker whos a professional accountant, sat next to me. He told me that he often received information on a variety of courses, and he said that he could phone me to

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ask me if I wanted him to post something to me. I gave him my mobile number and my home address. What did you talk about? Did you talk about anything in particular? During the lunch break I talked about the partners and staff in Harrington Lewis and he talked about some of his clients. She did not only behave irresponsibly, Harper thought, she also abused her position of trust. But theres no point in telling her off; she wouldnt understand. Tell me about yesterday evenings arrangement. John phoned me on Tuesday to tell me that on Wednesday evening he would be calling on a client in the area, and asked me if Id like to go to dinner with him at a nearby restaurant. I said Id like that very much. He asked me how Id feel about being alone in the building after everyone had left. I told him that I wouldnt be alone. Some of those who planned to leave at seven could change their plans by Wednesday. I also told him that Hugh often stayed until ten and that hed be here, though he wouldnt be holding a seminar. And Susan Brown, the cleaner, would also be here but only until eight; she was taking her children to watch the fireworks. Did he say what time hed come? He said that hed phone me at about eight and that I should be ready to come down without delay, because sometimes his clients demanded to see him at the most inappropriate times; hed like to have dinner and a chat with me before someone called him. Now tell me what happened yesterday. I waited for his phone call in my room. It was exactly eight oclock when I heard the front door close; it was Susan, leaving. My mobile rang almost

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immediately; it was John. I took the lift to the ground floor and when I came out, I heard Hugh talking on the phone; his door was open. Was the front door locked with the Chubb? Yes. I unlocked it, and when I stepped outside, I locked it. When you opened the door and stepped outside, where was John Barker waiting exactly? Its strange really, Inspector. I opened the door and he was standing with his face almost stuck on it. He smiled and said that he couldnt wait to have dinner, and hoped Id forgive his impatience. I said that I was hungry too. Did he ask if he could come inside the building? Inspector, when I think about it now, I believe that he probably wanted to. Why do you say that? He leaned against the door and looked inside as if he was searching for something. He asked how I felt about being alone in the building. She laughed: He had forgotten that the day before I told him I wouldnt be alone. Did you tell him who was in? Yes. I said that Hugh was here. As I was about to step outside, I looked back and saw him. I said to John that Hugh was just going up the stairs, probably to the mens washroom on the third floor. Just then, he took out his mobile, and while I was locking the door he sent a quick text to a client to reschedule an appointment; so he said. It only took a few seconds. What happened next? He said that he was really hungry; he put his arm around my waist and started to walk fast, almost dragging me along. I tried to keep up with him but it was difficult and if he hadnt supported me with his arm I wouldve fallen. When we arrived at

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High Holborn he slowed down and said that he hoped he hadnt tired me out. He let go of me and we walked slowly side by side. What did you talk about at the restaurant? He asked about the solicitors and barristers and I told him that we had one more resident barrister, Olivia Wilmot, and that her room was next to Hughs. I told him that Olivia had gone on a weeks leave that day and would be back next Wednesday; she was due in court in the afternoon, at the Bailey. Did John Barker ask you to disclose confidential information about the partners and staff? He wanted to know what they earned and Im afraid I told him she said apologetically. I also told him that Hugh was never without work and he probably earned more than any of the partners. What else did you tell him? That Hugh wouldnt break the law under any circumstances to cover up anyones illegal business. Did he use his mobile again during the time you were with him? Yes, once more. He received a text at a quarter to nine and he said that his client wanted to see him immediately. We hadnt quite finished our meal and he apologised; he said that hed phone me to arrange for us to meet at a weekend if it was convenient for me. He asked the waiter for the bill, and told him to add the dessert I wanted to have. He gave him a generous tip and then he left. What time was it when he left? It was about nine. Miss Weston, could you describe John Barker to us as best as you can?

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He was quite good-looking. He wore a grey suit and carried a black leather briefcase. He looked rich. How old would you say he was, Miss Weston? About forty-five. Was he a large man, Miss Weston? Was he slim, fat, or was he average? He wasnt very tall; only slightly taller than me. And he was slim. Harper forced himself to follow procedures; he wouldve preferred to let her go immediately. Dragging words out of her to tell if someone was tall or short, was something he related to a four-year old. What colour was his hair? Brown. Anything else you can tell us about his appearance? No, I dont think so. Did you notice the colour of his eyes? I did, Inspector; they were blue. Will you help one of our officers to compose an identikit? Yes, but why? Do you think he had something to do with Hughs murder? We check and confirm the accuracy of all alibis; we cannot confirm yours. We must find John Barker. When Catherine Weston was out of the room Harper shook his head: Weston is superficial and untrustworthy; Weinberg mustve a good reason to criticize her work. She also suffers from delusions; she believes that she possesses sex appeal. What did you think of her, Chris? Nothing, sir.

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Exactly, Chris; nothing. So, what does it tell you, the fact that you think nothing of her? Shes naive sir, if thats what you mean. I dont disapprove of her because of her looks. Whatever form or shape nature intended for any of us isnt our fault. Or, for her taste in clothes, though I dont think that in her case, its a question of economics. And I dont disapprove of her for not knowing how to be charming, even though it costs nothing to acquire the talent; all she has to do is stand in front of the mirror and practice how to smile. I disapprove of her because she lacks common sense. Arent you a little unfair with your criticism, sir? Unfair? Would you take her out, Chris? Shes not my type. So why do you think a man of the world, like John Barker appears to be, wanted to be seen with Miss Weston? Do you suppose shes his type? Why didnt she realize that he was rude to her? Are we to think that shes nave just like a young, inexperienced youth? Why didnt it occur to her that he was probably not overwhelmed by her charm, but it was more likely that he wanted to use her in some scheme or other? Catherine Weston lacks common sense. I see what you mean, sir.

They took the lift to the first floor and stopped outside Carlisles room to look at the spot where the unexploded firework was found earlier. Mrs Brown said that she had picked up the scraps of paper and other bits and pieces that were lying around; she wouldve seen it and picked it up if it was there. So, the most plausible explanation

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was that the murderer had brought it in, expecting Carlisle to bend down to check what it was, so he could hit him. Harper unlocked the door and they went inside. Everything was as they had left it except for the computer that had been taken to the Station. The mantelpiece was full of the books that had collapsed when the murderer removed the bookend, and Carlisles jacket was hanging at the back of his swivel-chair. Harper sat in it, and tried to picture the man who motivated people into achieving their aspirations. He somehow felt that he was intruding in the dead mans privacy and avoided touching the books that were spread on the desk. Books did not deter this murderer from striking the blows. I cannot believe how easily the murderer obtained access to get in. Who wanted Carlisle dead and why? said Harper. Is it a coincidence that Carlisle was murdered on Guy Fawkes Night, sir? No, its not a coincidence, Chris. The murder took place on an evening when those who normally worked late, left early, possibly to go and watch fireworks. Weston told Barker that only Carlisle would be working late and that he wasnt going to hold a seminar that evening. More than one person is involved in Carlisles murder, we can confirm that now. Barker passed information to the murderer. So Barker is an accessory. Barker is an accessory also because he sent the murderer a text telling him that Carlisle was on his way up to the washroom on the third floor. This foolish woman believed that his interest in her was amorous and romantic and gave him answers to everything he wanted to know. So, where was the murderer when Barker sent him the text, sir?

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He was probably hiding close by. When Mrs Brown came out, Barker went up to the front door and the rest we know. Barker dragged Weston away from the Square so that she wouldnt see the murderer get inside. Thats right. He hurried to get in and go to Carlisles room before Carlisle came down from the washroom. He left the firework outside his room and went inside. Somehow he knew that there were two statuettes on the mantelpiece. How did he know that, sir? As I said, Chris, thats what we need to find out and when we do, well be close to catching the murderer and the accessory. Right now, we know very little about them. We dont know anything about them, sir. We know something about them. Why did he lock the door on his way out? Maybe he didnt think, sir. Exactly; there was a crowd of drunk and disorderly youths in the Square and he didnt think of leaving the door unlocked to make us believe that an intruder went in and killed Carlisle. He must be quite brainless. We have a stupid murderer and a manipulative accessory. Why did he leave the bookend in Miss Wilmots room? I dont know; maybe to distract us. Arrange for an identikit as soon as possible, and check with Customs and Excise about these courses and who they sent the invitations to; they usually keep records. Im sure it was Barker who sent it to Weston; we must confirm it, though. You said that Weston is foolish and that she lacks common sense, but shes an accountant, sir. Surely one needs to have common sense to qualify?

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She mustve had common sense when she qualified. As she got older, I suppose her complexes took over and clouded her judgement. Her craving for attention causes her to overlook ones bizarre behaviour. Do you think shes telling the truth? Are you asking if she made copies of the keys and gave them to Barker? And then lied about not being able to get in touch with him? I agree. We have to consider the possibility. What are we going to do about Carlisles diary, sir? Get Russell to help. And find out what time Chez Marcos open. Theres one more thing, sir. Lucy Andrewss behaviour was strange. When she came in for the interview I noticed that she had been crying. She could hardly speak and was also sobbing during the interview. Russell thinks we ought to talk to her again. Did you ask her why she was crying? No sir. I didnt want to upset her any more than she was upset already. I thought she was unhappy for personal reasons, but I agree with Russell; even if she were, we want to know what those reasons are. He thinks that the problems young girls worry about are usually of a romantic nature, but Miss Andrews went to the fireworks party with her boyfriend. We must talk to her as soon as possible. Ask Mrs Abbott to send her in. She already left, sir. At that moment Harpers mobile rang: Veronica Carlisle phoned to say that shes in Notting Hill with Arthur Shaw if you want to talk to her, Inspector. Thank you, Mrs Abbott; please let her know were on our way. And will you send Miss Andrews to see me when she comes in tomorrow?

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Chapter nine

The question in Harpers mind on the way to Notting Hill was why Mrs Carlisle left her husband. If she didnt love him why didnt she divorce him? Was it because she would be better off financially if, when he died, she was still married to him? If that was the case, then both she and Arthur Shaw were prime suspects. On the other hand, maybe she still loved him; but if she still loved him why did she leave him? He had to try and find the true reason for their separation. He remembered how Margaret described Veronica Carlisle; some might say she isnt friendly. Norton mustve guessed Harpers thoughts: Would she put up with persistent and intrusive questioning, sir? Harper went through the questions repeatedly and came to the conclusion that he had to ask them all: why did you marry him and are you the beneficiary of his pension. If Mrs Carlisle was all set for a quarrel, then let it be so; he wasnt going to change his procedure to suit her. She may not Chris, but Im prepared for that. As far as Im concerned, both she and Arthur Shaw are suspects for Carlisles murder. The questioning will be persistent and intrusive. I suppose Shaw wont leave us alone with her; Ill have to interview them together.

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They arrived in Notting Hill, and Harper couldnt help but admire Carlisles choice of address. It was a five-storey, including the basement, Georgian terraced house, situated in a conservation area, in a crescent with communal gardens and with several of the buildings listed. Im surprised Carlisle chose to live here, sir. He wasnt interested in winning court cases to earn a higher fee, yet he buys a house in one of the most expensive districts of London. Perhaps it wasnt his choice said Harper. They climbed the steps that led to the front door and Norton pressed the bell. Presently, they heard someone coming down the stairs; the drawing room was on the first floor as it was with many similar houses in the area. Harper correctly supposed that the man who opened the door was Arthur Shaw. He was surprised by his looks. For someone who lived in a country estate in Suffolk, who went hunting, horse riding and walked along the coast, Arthur Shaw was pale, and his thin, white hair gave his complexion an even paler hue. Anyone who saw him would probably think that he didnt get a breath of fresh air. Whats more, his expression did not reveal anything; there wasnt a sign on his face to show that he may be feeling sorrow or even indifference for Carlisles death. He must be feeling something, Harper thought. Maybe hes glad and doesnt want us to know. Was Carlisle an obstacle to his happiness? Mr Shaw? Im Detective Inspector Harper and this is Detective Sergeant Norton. I understood from Mrs Abbott, that Mrs Carlisle could see us today. Veronica is distressed and wants the murderer caught, Inspector. Even Shaws voice was weak and mediocre for a barrister, and Harper remembered how the Harrington Lewis employees fell in love with Carlisles beautiful voice.

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In the drawing room, Harper threw a quick glance around and saw that just like Carlisles room in Harrington Lewis, the bookshelves in the alcoves on either side of the fireplace reached the ceiling. There were oil paintings with gilded frames hanging on the walls. There were also a few watercolours in between, and those, he thought, were probably Annas choice. A regency style upholstered sofa was placed against the back wall with the two armchairs in front of the sash windows, opposite. There was also a reclining wing chair and a small coffee table by the fireplace. On an occasional table just inside the entrance, an old cardboard box was tied with string; Carlisles childhood souvenirs, no doubt. On the mantelpiece above the fireplace there was a photograph of Carlisle with his daughter in a silver frame, placed between two antique candlesticks. Harper

noted the similarity of her features to those of her father. Their dark, arched eyebrows framed their almond-shaped eyes and stood out against the paleness of their alabaster skin. Harper would not be intimidated by pride, whether it stemmed from social standing, wealth, or breeding. It seemed to him that Veronica Carlisle possessed all those social advantages and he believed that she would be indifferent towards anyone whose degree of importance, as judged by her standards, wasnt equal to hers. She was probably in her late forties. She was attractive; her skin was smooth and clear and though she appeared sombre in a black suit she looked younger. Shaw seemed an unlikely partner for a woman so sure of her own self-importance and with an irrefutably assertive personality. She greeted them with a formal how do you do and directed them with a gesture to the armchairs opposite.

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Id like to offer you my condolences Mrs Carlisle. Your husbands friends and colleagues told me that he conformed to moral principles; they held a high opinion of him. Thank you, Inspector. Hugh was indeed a man of principles and nothing would dissuade him from what he believed to be the correct and proper attitude to take towards a situation. She pointed to the cardboard box on the table: Take the box with you, Inspector. Margaret said you may want to look through its contents. They date from the time Hugh was a young boy. She must have thought that Harper hesitated to question her in front of Shaw because she immediately added: You can ask me anything with Arthur here. Shaw too, mustve guessed Harpers thoughts; he reassured him: You may think, Inspector, that I wouldnt feel any sorrow for Hughs death. I assure you it isnt so. I feel sad on Veronicas account; she lived with him for many years and his death has affected her a great deal, especially concerning their daughter Anna who loved him dearly. Harper hoped that Shaw may be willing to talk about their private life and began to question him: Mr Shaw, when you and Mrs Carlisle became lovers, did you keep your relationship a secret from those around you? Inspector, we were often invited to the same functions and the same dinner parties as Hugh. We didnt hide our feelings from the world. Ask Margaret Abbott. She and Veronica are still very good friends. How do you think Mr Carlisle felt when Mrs Carlisle decided to leave him?

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Inspector, Hugh wasnt heart-broken just because Veronica left him. Im sure he felt a sense of relief. What do you mean, sir? Hugh was an idealist and wanted to be surrounded by like-minded people. Those who went to his lectures and seminars shared his views not only on legal issues but also on life. Anna told me that George Mackenzie was devoted to him. So you see Inspector, Hugh didnt have time for Veronica; he was glad I was around to take her off his hands. When was the last time you saw him? We all met at Annas twenty-first birthday in September. We went to a restaurant with Margaret and Matthew Abbott and their children. Did you have access to his office keys? Shaw sounded offended: No, Inspector. And may I say your question is quite impertinent. Harper sneered at the thought of offending Shaw; maybe now he understood how it felt. He turned to Veronica: Mrs Carlisle, when you left your husband, did your daughter come to stay with you and Mr Shaw? Anna had just got into Oxford when I moved out. This has always been her home. She was here until the first week in October. When was the last time you saw your husband? Last Friday. We had agreed to sell the house and I came to discuss finances. Had you reached a decision as to the sale of the house? Hugh had changed his mind about selling it. So what was the outcome of your discussions?

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If you must know Inspector, he wanted to go into arbitration. Was she telling the truth? From what Harper had been told about Carlisle, he had come to the conclusion that he was a generous man. His generosity extended to strangers. Would he have been mean to his wife? Even though it was she who had walked out on him? Has his death solved the problem, Mrs Carlisle? Veronica didnt answer. What were his domestic arrangements? The cleaner Mrs Owen came on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Please let me have her address and telephone number. Did you have access to his keys for Harrington Lewis? I had no reason to take his keys, Inspector. Did you have access to the house when Mr Carlisle was out? Yes, Inspector. Hugh didnt stop me from coming here. Shaw clarified the situation: Inspector, this is Veronicas home. True, she has lived with me for a couple of years, or should I say, she has been my guest for a couple of years, but this is her permanent address as far as formal and official matters are concerned. So, Mrs Carlisle has had the best of both worlds. Some explanation was necessary on her part: Why did you marry your husband, Mrs Carlisle? Ill answer your question Inspector, to stop speculation on my motives. I married him first because I loved him and then because I could see that he had the potential to become wealthy.

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Would you mind telling me how you and Mr Carlisle met? Id like to know everything theres to know about your husband; it will help us create a profile which, hopefully, will lead us to his murderer. We met in Oxford at the graduation ceremony, and it was I who approached him. I smiled at him as if he were an old friend, and he smiled back. To this day, I cant believe that he persuaded me to marry him so quickly, without planning the wedding, without inviting guests or letting anyone know that we were getting married. He said that itd be really romantic to marry secretly. We could always hold a reception at a later date; to which I agreed. We were married in a chapel a week after we met with only the priest and deacon present, and spent our wedding night in a B&B where we were the only guests for breakfast. Looking back, I suppose the reason he wanted to marry me as soon as possible was because, perhaps out of respect for me, he didnt want to ask me to have sex with him before marriage. Or, maybe his upbringing had something to do with that; maybe he believed that having sex before marriage was a sin. If that was the reason, perhaps he was afraid that Id think he was mad and leave him. If we delayed the wedding, hed have to explain. And why did you leave him? Shaw intervened: Your questions exceed the limit of propriety Inspector. Veronica doesnt have to answer. It doesnt matter Arthur. Ill answer your question Inspector, to prove that I didnt leave him because I hated him. I left him for two reasons. The first reason is this: Hugh couldnt live without his ideology, and I couldnt cope with boredom. When our daughter Anna grew old enough to need no supervision from us, I began to make demands on his time; Hugh however, had no time for me. By then, he had

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established a routine whereby he met his friends, and anyone who was willing to listen to him talk about law, philosophy, principles and dogmas, in his room in Harrington Lewis where he held discussions regularly after work. They loved his words and the sound of his voice. Hugh didnt care about status; he avoided social gatherings where one meets the kind of people that matter. All he ever wanted to do was to stay in the office until ten to exchange views with like-minded people. The other reason is that he had a complete disregard for wealth. I wanted a better life, richer if you like, with a house in the country and a stable with horses; exactly what Arthur has got. I was shocked when I realized that he wouldnt use his potential to his advantage. How did you arrive at that conclusion? He had refused to take on a case to defend someone. According to Hugh the defendant was unethical and greedy. He would have won the case Inspector; there was no forensic evidence. He could have easily got him a not guilty verdict. Was he? Unethical and greedy? Yes, but thats not the point; everybody is entitled to a defence. I said that if he carried on like this, he would never take silk. He looked surprised and said: my dear, surely you have realized by now that Im not interested in becoming a QC? Well, Inspector, all my dreams about becoming a QCs wife went up in smoke and I saw my future with Hugh: I would be spending the rest of my life married to a junior! Did you criticize him for wanting a just outcome to a court case? Hugh didnt fight for justice in the way most lawyers do. He saw things differently. He was an expert speaker and persuaded jurors to ignore the judges summing up. As a result, more often than not, the accused was convicted on moral

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grounds when actually he or she shouldve been acquitted. Consequently, Hugh earned the contempt of presiding judges. Was it then that you decided to leave him? Yes, although I didnt leave him until several years later. I stayed with Hugh, but Arthur was there at the time when I was helpless and vulnerable. I started seeing Arthur and though I had problems with my conscience at first, eventually I had no scruples about infidelity. I loved Hugh and I wish he cared less for his ideals and more for me. Alas, I discovered that he couldnt live without his ideals; he could however live without me. So, I had enough, and when Anna went to Oxford I moved in with Arthur. Though we had lived together for twenty-five years I wasnt hurt, and neither was he, because we saw very little of each other during that time. She continued and was almost in tears: Inspector, youll hear people say that Hugh was too good to be true, but I doubt if any of those people realize how difficult it is to live with such a man. She added sadly: My daughter will miss him terribly; they were very close. Harper was sure he detected a tear about to fall from her eyes. Did he tell you anything about his childhood when you first met him? He told me that his father was a priest. I didnt know that he had spent his entire childhood in the library of a vicarage. Not until I saw his storage box. What do you make of the contents of the storage box, Mrs Carlisle? Did your husband talk to you about it? No. He simply told me to feel free to browse through it. I did, and I found nothing of interest in the box, Inspector. Its full of notebooks, icons, bibles, and books about saints. And before you ask, no, I havent read them. Matthew Abbott

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mayve found something interesting, Inspector; he browsed through the box every time he came. Why didnt you divorce him, Mrs Carlisle? Is it because, you would be better off financially, if when he died, you were still married to him? I was married to Hugh for twenty-five years before I left him, Inspector. Taking the decision to divorce him wasnt easy. Its now time for some intrusive questioning. Harper wouldnt lapse procedures in a murder investigation so as not to offend a witness. What are the terms of his will, Mrs Carlisle? He left his share of the house to Anna. Do you have a private income Mrs Carlisle, or do you rely entirely on Mr Shaw to support you? Inspector, Veronica does not have to answer your question. Are you the beneficiary of his pension? I think Ive answered your questions, Inspector. One more question, Mrs Carlisle. Where were you yesterday evening between eight and eight-thirty? Arthur and I dined in Chambers. Several Members were there including the Head of Chambers. I wrote down their names for you. I assure you, Inspector, no one is going to commit perjury for us.

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Chapter ten

Why did you agree to see Caroline Moore immediately, sir? Do you think she might suspect who murdered Carlisle? Norton asked. I hope she wont be wasting our time. She was a member of the audience in Carlisles last discussion group and I want to hear her views, to compare them with what Olivia Wilmot told us. Im also curious to know if she and any other member in Carlisles circle of friends assume that this premeditated murder was carried out with inside help. They were sitting in their office at the Station to review the days events and to wait for Caroline Moore. Harper was willing to talk to whoever came forward with information or for a chat about Carlisle; a word here and there may give him the lead he needed to proceed. So far, I cant point the finger at anyone Harper continued and accuse them of murdering or conspiring to murder Carlisle. With the exception of Harrington and Weinberg, most of the partners and staff approved wholeheartedly of Carlisles singular attitude to justice. Though there were some, who werent enthused about his unorthodox approach. Do you think the reason they didnt criticise him, is because theyre sorry that hes dead?

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It could be; or because his principles didnt stop them from becoming wealthy. His reputation for justice was well known, and the briefs kept coming in. Why would they wish him dead, if his good name helped to bring more clients to the practice? What about verifying Arthur Shaws and Mrs Carlisles alibi, sir? Its unlikely any of the Members in his Chambers would lie for them. This doesnt mean that they couldnt have conspired with someone to murder Carlisle. We must consider all the possibilities. Mrs Carlisle looked very unhappy when she mentioned her daughter; and she must be. Do you think she wouldve gone as far as to plot her husbands murder knowing how hurt her daughter would be? Youre right, Chris, she wouldnt; though Shaw might. On the other hand, I dont think he was lying when he said that they were seeing each other openly while Mrs Carlisle was still living with her husband. Carlisle wasnt an obstacle to their happiness. We could ask Mrs Abbott to confirm a few facts about Shaw. Yes; shed know if Shaw hated Carlisle enough to want him dead. He seemed happy to be with Mrs Carlisle. What would he gain by his death? Absolutely nothing, Chris. We must confirm it though. In a murder investigation, dont take everything one tells you as the whole truth. Do you think someone in the practice is lying? Someone knows more than theyre telling us; I cant see how the murderer got the keys to get in unless someone gave them to him. Theres an accessory inside Harrington Lewis. Barker is also a possible accessory, sir.

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Harper raised his voice now, annoyed at Nortons words: What do you mean possible accessory? Surely you can see that Barker was aiding and abetting the murderer to get inside? Is it a coincidence that the time of the murder was the exact time Barker took Weston to dinner? Youre right, sir. Did you check with Chez Marcos about the tape in the CCTV? The Constable who went round reported that they dont switch the camera on every day; only on Fridays and Saturdays. Im not surprised. How are we doing with the alibis? Are they all verified? Russell said all alibis except Lucys were confirmed. Whats happening about Lucys? No one answered the phone during the day or the front door earlier. Hell try again tomorrow. What about Weinbergs? Was he at home with his wife and live-in helpers? Yes, sir. Someone is withholding information. Someone in the practice knows why Carlisle was murdered and who murdered him. towards anyone; not even towards Weinberg. Russell has set up the incident room and theyll start talking to everyone whose name is in Carlisles diary. Good. Weve eliminated nearly everyone we spoke to. At the moment nothing points

When Harper saw Caroline Moore, he realized immediately that she wasnt the kind of person to waste anyones time with small talk simply for something to do. She was probably in her sixties. Fine lines covered her friendly face, and her short, steel-grey

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hair was parted at the left and brushed behind her ears. She was tall and slim, and was wearing an old-fashioned suit of good quality, which went well with her dignified appearance. She gave the impression of a well-to-do woman; a capable organizer of charity events. Her presence was strong. Twenty years earlier, Harper wouldve felt intimidated. How well did you know Hugh Carlisle, Miss Moore? I attended his lectures and seminars for about twenty years, Inspector; I would say that I knew him as well as his family and his closest friends. She spoke slowly; she too, had a beautiful voice. Indeed, Miss Moore. Ill leave it up to you to tell me what you think may be relevant to the investigation. I trust the information will be relevant. I spent my working life looking closely at peoples faces, trying to guess and judge if and why they were lying. I saw it in their eyes when they meant to deceive. I can guess the character of the man who killed Hugh Carlisle, Inspector. He must be a despicable and evil individual. Hugh didnt come into contact with despicable and evil individuals; someone brought those individuals to him. Theres a conspirator, Inspector, among his close companions and associates. He or she will lead you to the person who murdered him. Miss Moore, weve interviewed everyone close to him but found no suspects among them. Then look again. I wouldnt expect you to disclose information but if youve come across anyone among his associates, whom you do not trust, then persevere. He or shes the culprit. You have a difficult task, Inspector, because youre dealing with extremely clever lawyers. Im well aware, Miss Moore.

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I shant take up too much of your time. Ive come to tell you that I saw someone inside the building whom I would not trust. Hes a lawyer, Im sure, and an employee, no doubt. It was one evening when the discussion was over and we were getting ready to leave. As we lingered outside Hughs room, I noticed someone at the opposite end of the floor. Now this man would have walked from a higher floor to the first but for some reason did not wish to be seen and avoided passing outside Hughs room; he walked across to take the lift. Was he spying on us? I did not give it a second thought at the time. Today, when I heard the news I thought of him again and Im sure now that he hated Hugh. Why do you say that? Inspector, people would not miss an opportunity to go up to Hugh just to say hello. I have met some of those who work there, and they always came over to us to exchange a few words, we could see they meant well. Not this man though. Can you describe him? I saw him a few times but he never spoke. That day when I saw him get in the lift, Susan was coming down the stairs. I didnt want to appear inquisitive by asking directly who the man was, so I said: someone took the lift to go just one floor down. She told me that the mans name was Weinberg and I could tell by the tone of her voice that she did not like him either. How long ago? During last month; I dont remember the exact day. Miss Moore, were you a regular participant in Mr Carlisles seminars? A couple of times a month; it depended on the topic. I tried not to attend when the discussions were ad lib; sometimes they ended in chaos. What did you think of last Thursdays discussion?

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Platos Socratic dialogues were a perennial topic; Phaedo is the saddest. Why was it necessary to attend a seminar? Why couldnt you read the dialogue and come to your own conclusions? Ive read the dialogue several times, Inspector. People attend seminars to hear someone elses point of view; especially when that someone was Hugh Carlisle. What was it about him that impressed you? His words and his voice; and his looks; I found him attractive. I dont know if his looks would have made a difference; would I still go if I didnt find him attractive? Ill try and answer the question some day. Did you go to see Hugh Carlisle in his house, Miss Moore? Yes, a few times. Not only as part of a group but also on my own. What do you make of the contents of his storage box? The contents of the storage box, Inspector, show how prolific Hugh was as a young boy, and how lonely. He didnt have any friends, so he befriended the people he read about in the books.

Well, were none the wiser Chris Harper said when Caroline Moore left. She too, confirmed that there were no flaws in Carlisles character. She also confirmed our suspicions that Weinberg disliked Carlisle, sir. Weinberg is a businessman; why would he have anything to discuss with a bunch of philosophising intellectuals? Do you think Weinberg wanted Carlisle dead, sir? Maybe he wanted him dead but that doesnt mean he killed him. We know he disliked Carlisle even though he denied it, but I dont think disliking someone is a reason to commit murder. He happens to be the opposite of Carlisle as far as their

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outlook in life goes. Weinberg is a materialist, a businessman who would go to extremes to protect his interests. The question now is: did Carlisle get in his way? He told us that he didnt, but do we believe him? No sir. Everybody is a suspect until the real culprit is caught. Precisely, Chris. Tomorrow well start looking at Carlisles clients and the case or cases he was working on. Well meet here in the morning to go through his computer files before we go to Grays Square. I hope IT will download them by tomorrow morning. Well have them by tomorrow morning, sir. Some of the files, including the file of the current case are password protected but theyre optimistic that theyll override the passwords. IT promised theyll give it priority. Anyway, Mackenzie could tell us about his current case. I hope so; I hope we can find something to give us a lead. Carlisle wasnt murdered for money, and so far, it looks as though he wasnt mixed up in crime. But as a prosecutor he wouldve made enemies; maybe thats where the motive lies. Now, lets see what secrets this storage box holds. Shall I make room on the desk for its contents? Yes. I want to have a look before we talk to Matthew Abbott tomorrow. Do you think Matthew Abbott would know if theres anything of value in it? Not of material value, Chris; Carlisle wasnt interested in the material value of anything. But we saw his house, sir. And we saw his wife; isnt it odd how opposites attract. He couldve replaced the box with a new one; its falling apart.

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Maybe the box had sentimental value too; he was deeply attached to everything from his past. Put aside the icons, the crucifix and the bibles and separate the books from the notebooks; well start with the books. Start what, sir? You dont mean start reading them? To begin with, well make a note of the titles without disturbing the order Carlisle has placed them in the box. Then well flick through them; we may find something to tell us why Carlisle kept them all these years. These three books are kept together with an elastic band; it looks as though Carlisle read them again and again; theyre dog-eared. What do you know about saints? Im not religious, sir. So youve said. Do some research and see what you can find. Ill look through the notebooks; I hope something will make sense. Miss Wilmot said that Carlisle was probably attached to his family and the vicarage and thats the reason he kept them. Surely, sir, thats all theres to it? Possibly; I prefer to come to my own conclusions. So, lets make a start.

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Chapter eleven

Do you have a degree, Chris? Harper asked. Yes sir. Everybody who joins CID now has a degree. At sixteen, I applied for entry to the Police College. I spent several years in uniform, and then joined CID and attained the rank of DCI on the merit of my hard work and experience. Thats commendable, sir. Sometimes they went for a drink and Norton would drive Harper home afterwards. He didnt mind that; what he didnt like about it was that he was always the one to drink the alcohol-free beer. What Im trying to say is that you need commitment to the job, just as you need commitment to everything you embark on in life. What do you mean, sir? In the course of my career I encountered married couples whose bitterness towards each other was so extreme that it left them with one option: to go their own separate ways. Sadly, marriage vows dont always guarantee happiness. Marriage vows didnt guarantee happiness for the Carlisles, sir. Harper continued: When I come across couples with marital problems, a little anxiety disturbs my peace of mind, even though I know I neednt worry. Are you happy with the way your life has turned out, sir?

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I cant imagine what my life wouldve been if I hadnt met Rita. Norton was curious to know more about Harpers private life; should he be inquisitive? Everyone at the Station knew that his wife was a Hindu and that she taught yoga, but the two of them hadnt talked about it. He thought it would be appropriate now to ask him directly: May I ask how you and Mrs Harper met, sir? Harper laughed: In a day centre for the elderly. Soon after I joined CID as a Sergeant I went to investigate a break-in, and Rita was there teaching breathing exercises and yoga. I laughed rather offhandedly and she was offended, so I took her out for a meal to make amends; we were married within a year. She was happy to marry a non-Hindu, then. Rita upholds a liberal attitude towards old traditions, though there are some rules in her culture she wouldnt break. What rules are those, sir? Marriage vows; you marry for better or worse or you dont marry at all. What about her parents? Did they approve of her marriage to a non-Hindu? Harper laughed again and said: As it happens, her parents, Mr and Mrs Patel, were very happy that she was getting married to me. Rita is their only child. They tried in vain to persuade her to study for a degree in a traditional profession. They blamed themselves for that, because they believed they overindulged her. Her father told her that she was lucky a good man like me wanted to marry her. Norton managed to stop himself from asking why; Harper mustve guessed his thoughts because he readily explained: Her father told her that she had nothing to offer to a marriage; she couldve become an accountant instead of a teacher to layabouts. She convinced me that with

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meditation and yoga one can achieve clarity of mind. When we got married I went along with the idea to please her, but I soon realized how right she was. Everybody at the Station knew about his oriental tendencies; they had nicknamed him Zen. Unwittingly, Harper answered to it. They arrived in Kentish Town; Harper had to live near the station and Kentish Town was the nearest he could afford. It was a spacious, Victorian house with offstreet parking. Many of these houses were occupied by ethnic minorities and the multi-cultural atmosphere was most prevalent in the afternoon during the school term. Norton stopped the car outside Harpers semi-detached: Ill pick you up in the morning, sir he said.

As soon as Harper opened the door he sensed a waft of a spicy aroma. It was comforting coming home to a heart-warming meal. It would be a vegetarian meal as always, but he had learned to enjoy vegetarian food, and anyway, Rita didnt mind when, occasionally, he cooked himself a steak or any other animal flesh he fancied. On Thursdays she attended an evening class on psychology and sometimes she came home later than he did. Her mother, who lived nearby, cooked them a meal in the afternoon which they heated up in the microwave. Harper enjoyed his mother-in-laws authentic Indian cooking. Mike opened a bottle of wine and they sat down to eat, feeling tired but looking forward to the meal. Rita had praise for her mother: Darling, do you think Im quite useless in the kitchen because I cant prepare this kind of food? Mike teased her: Of course youre useless in the kitchen, sweetheart. But dont worry; as long as your mothers around, I shant complain.

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Good. All I want after a days work is to relax with you on the sofa. Their sitting room was Mikes favourite room of the house; it was large and sparingly furnished. The longer than three-sitter upholstered sofa was comfortable to lie on and catnap. There were two armchairs which comprised a suite with the sofa and a large oak coffee table that had seen better days. It had been scratched and knocked about from the time their children were small, but they loved it. In addition to the yoga, polishing the oak coffee table was therapy for Mike Harper. There was a television set opposite the sofa, and a wing chair in front of the bookshelves, in one of the alcoves by the fireplace, where Mike sat for reflection and meditation. In the other alcove there was a glass-fronted cabinet in which Rita kept some vintage pieces of porcelain. She also had a passion for line drawings, and the wall was covered with prints mostly from second hand shops in Charing Cross Road. The floor was light oak, on which she had laid some traditional Indian rags. Mike collapsed into the sofa and closed his eyes. Rita went and sat by him. Have you found the motive yet? She asked him. Thats what Im trying to work out. There doesnt seem to be a motive. So what have you got so far? The barrister had principles, fought for justice; his colleagues described him as too good to be true. He wouldnt take on a case for the money or for the satisfaction of winning. And according to his estranged wife, he wasnt interested in becoming a QC. So, as a budding psychologist, what do you think? He was joking, but she answered seriously: He wasnt interested in money, so no one could bribe him. He switched on the television with the remote and struggled in vain to keep his eyes open. It was only when Rita laid her head on his lap that he startled, opened his

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eyes and managed to catch a couple of words of what a debating team were talking about. He heard the name Aristotle twice in the space of a few seconds. He closed his eyes again and let the feeling of relaxation spread all over him, causing him to fall asleep very quickly. It was several minutes later when he opened his eyes and began to think about the events of the day. Eventually, his mind settled on the books on Carlisles desk. What about the book by Aristotle, he thought. Was it part of his research in a case he was working on? Perhaps not; Carlisle was, as Chris had put it, a learned man. He read extensively and was very knowledgeable. Maybe it was a coincidence that the books were there. On the other hand, it would be interesting to find out more. When Chris pointed them out he didnt give them a second thought. Hell ask him tomorrow. He couldnt wait until tomorrow. When something bothered him he had to deal with it. He telephoned Norton: Chris, what was your degree? Sociology, sir. Do you know anything about Aristotle? I read some of Aristotles Politics. Can we talk about it tomorrow, sir? You said that there was a book on Carlisles desk by Aristotle. It was the Constitution of Athens. I havent read that one. All I can tell you is what I heard on Question Time just now. In Nortons experience, Harper wouldnt wait until tomorrow so he continued: A member of the audience said that the government should bring in legislation to cap interest rates to protect the public from loan sharks. The politician on the panel said that such legislation was unprecedented, and the professor on the panel began to talk about Aristotles Constitution of Athens. He said that Dracon, a ruler of Athens towards the end of the 7th century BC, laid some cruel laws, the so

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called Draconian. Solon, who succeeded Dracon in the early 6th century BC, abolished Dracons laws, and he also ordered money lenders to cancel all existing loans. Why didnt you become a lawyer, Chris? Youre wasted as a policeman. Thanks very much, sir. Mike closed his eyes again, and concentrated on the faces of those he interviewed or had a few words with; which one was lying? If the key holders were telling the truth that they hadnt lost or misplaced their keys, someone stole a set, made copies, and gave them to the murderer. The question now was if the thief who stole the keys was a non-key-holder member of staff, or a member of a key-holders family. Mrs Brown said in the interview that no one in her house had access to her keys and that it was her mother-in-law who looked after her children in the evening. He began to plan for tomorrow. Tomorrow, before they saw Matthew Abbott, theyd have a word first with Lucy and then with George Mackenzie. Mackenzie could tell them about Carlisles recent cases; hed know more about them than Harrington or Weinberg. He could also tell them about the intellectuals in the discussion groups, though Harper didnt think they would find the murderer among them. No one who knew of Carlisles virtues couldve struck those blows. Carlisle was destroyed by someone who was ignorant and couldnt see into the spirit of the man he was destroying.

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Chapter twelve

When the Inspector and the Sergeant finished talking to Margaret, she went in her room and sat at her desk. She switched on the computer, opened the file that contained the notes of the last meeting and read the notes again to recall what those present had said. It was all very clear. It was her who had said that the security of the building was inadequate, and had suggested that they installed a security lock; if only she had insisted. She remembered that she was surprised when Weinberg did not agree with her suggestion. His answer was in the transcript of the minutes: Weve managed without a security lock for decades he had said. Why would an intruder break into these premises? To steal the briefs? Things are worse now than what they were when I first came here more than forty years ago, Joseph Harrington had said. Now, intruders are likely to break into premises for the purpose of stealing the office equipment. A client, whom we represented and who was given an adverse verdict to what he or she expected to get, may do just that. Weinberg had continued to disagree: I still think that installing a security lock is an unjustified expense. In addition to the initial cost of installation, we shall have to replace the lock every time a key holder loses a set of keys. All partners have keys, and many of the staff. True,

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we could reduce the number of key holders, but I doubt if any of the partners would agree to not having a key. Harrington did not argue. Margaret knew that he wasnt going to stay much longer; he had been planning his retirement for a couple of years. Weinberg wasnt giving in: We have an alarm. If the last person who leaves the premises in the evening sets the alarm, Im satisfied that security is adequate. Harrington had let Weinberg have the last word. He had suggested a compromise possibly so that he did not disappoint her: We shall look into the matter of security again at the next meeting. She remembered that she was annoyed with Weinberg for interfering; he didnt usually intervene in administrative matters or in issues of security, and now she began to wonder why. Why didnt he want a security lock? Was it a coincidence that as a result of his interfering, Hugh was now dead? So, there was only a Chubb, a Yale and an alarm. There were no rules put in place about the setting of the alarm or about the locking of the front door. It was left up to her to organize a procedure that was practical and straightforward so that everyone could follow it. Margaret decided that after six the Chubb should be on all the time. Those still inside, would unlock the front door to leave, and when outside they would lock it. If members of staff who werent issued with keys wanted to stay later than nine, they should tell her and she would give them the spare set. As for the alarm, Susan would set it before she left at nine if she was the last to leave. This wasnt an ideal arrangement. Very often, when she arrived in the morning and was the first to unlock the front door, she found that the alarm had not been set.

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Then again, it was reassuring to Margaret that this borough was one of the safest in London. Whats more, she was fortunate to hold a position that carried a great deal of responsibility, with a salary that helped to provide a good lifestyle for her and her family. For these reasons, she tried not to fret about the likelihood of intruders breaking into the premises. Obviously, her efforts to secure the building hadnt been effective and she blamed herself for the consequences. How did the murderer get the keys to get in? If only she had insisted on a security lock, Hugh would be alive today. Why did Weinberg refuse to have one installed? The practice could afford it. Still, it may not have saved Hugh; the murderer wouldve found a way. Margaret was always well-prepared for anything that might arise and get in the way of the efficient running of the business. As regards the present situation, no one, except the murderer perhaps, could have anticipated a crisis of this magnitude, and she felt that her patience and will-power were being tested. The TV and other media crews stood in the Square waiting for news, the police waited for the signed statements of the employees, the employees wanted to know if the police came up with a suspect, and Mr Harrington asked to see her repeatedly for this and that reason, but really because he was distressed and needed her support. She had to try and cope somehow. Her assistants Jenny Huttons eager voice interrupted her thoughts. Jenny seemed to be as upset as everyone, except that one couldnt tell by looking at her. She was of Jamaican descent and in keeping with her race, the smile was ingrained in her face; no matter what was going on around her, Jenny appeared to be smiling. When Margaret told her that Hugh was dead, she began to cry, yet her face did not lose its happy countenance. Presently, she had taken charge of incoming calls. There

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shouldnt have been any calls coming through, Lucy however, seemed beside herself. Margaret saw that she had tears in her eyes; she was crying possibly because she couldnt bring herself to tell the callers what had happened, or to lie. Even the most junior members of staff were in shock. The police took everyones fingerprints, and the employees, except those who were to be interviewed, left. At her usual time of seven oclock, Margaret stepped outside, locked the door and walked to Holborn Underground Station. Soon, she would be at home with Matthew; she couldnt wait to get home.

When at last Margaret sat on the train, she let her thoughts flood her mind. She thought of Veronica. Would Veronica be sorry for old times sake? She had lived with Hugh for as long as she with Matthew. Her heart filled with sorrow as she thought of Anna who would be heart-broken, and of Veronica who would be the one to tell her. Veronica too, would be heart-broken, if not for her love for Hugh, for Annas love for him. Will Anna ever get over her fathers death? What about Matthew? Hugh was his best friend and he too, would be heartbroken. Would he ever forget that his dearest friend was so callously murdered? As for herself, how could she carry on working in this place? After twentyseven happy years in the practice, would she have the will to go back tomorrow? How could she look forward to the future knowing that shed never see him again? I must find a way, she thought, for the sake of an old friend. She closed her eyes and cast her mind back to the days events. She remembered coming out of the Underground Station and walking towards Grays Square. She remembered meeting George.

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She tried to guess possible motives. Maybe an employee bore a grudge against Hugh; but if so, she wouldve known about it. She knew about everything that went on in the practice. She knew who had appointments with who, she knew when each case was due in court, she knew the clients and she also knew what was going on in the private lives of the partners and staff; this was because the employees confided in her. She would have known if anyone bore a grudge against Hugh. She searched her mind and found no incriminating behaviour from anyone. In spite of Hughs outlandish views on justice, his reputation was an asset to the practice. Weinberg was the only one, who had voiced openly his disapproval of Hughs values, but then Weinbergs reputation was also renowned; a lawyer of his standing wouldnt condone murder. Who then, bore a grudge against Hugh? A client? That was unlikely. His clients were grateful to him for his support. Margaret stopped thinking about motives. It was a problem for the police to solve. She kept her eyes closed, and once more she began to think about the days events from the beginning. She remembered unlocking the front door, stepping inside and walking towards her room. She remembered lingering by the reception desk and looking in the waste paper basket. She remembered that she was holding something in her hand when she heard the scream from George. She remembered walking towards him. Margaret sensed a sudden feeling of anxiety coming over her; her heartbeat was fast. She cast her mind back a few seconds. What was it that she was holding in her hand? She concentrated again and saw that it was a plastic bag that had fallen by the waste paper basket; it looked like it contained some shopping. When she went back to the reception desk to call the police she had forgotten about the bag.

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Someone must have passed by the hall sometime after she had left yesterday and dropped the bag. What would the police think now? That she tried to obstruct their investigation? They would of course realize that with the shock and the upheaval it was obvious that she forgot; nevertheless, Inspector Harper wouldnt be pleased. The train was approaching Ealing Broadway Station when the thought came to Margaret that it was probably Susan or Catherine Weston who dropped the bag; or an employee who stayed late and didnt write their name on the board; never mind, shed find out tomorrow.

Matthew and Margaret Abbotts house stood in its own grounds. It was surrounded by a wooden fence and it also had a high privet hedge in the front which hid it from the road. She parked the car in the drive, and saw Matthew who came outside to meet her; she let her tears fall at last; she had been holding them back all day. He hugged her and as soon as they went inside, Margaret wanted to talk about the shopping bag: Matthew, I forgot to mention something to the police. He had cooked dinner; she smelled the herbs in the pasta sauce. Tell me about it after dinner. She tried to speak again, but he wouldnt let her: Im not going to listen; you look exhausted; well eat first. They went in the kitchen and Matthew took charge of the food. On any other day, she would feel relaxed sitting here; their kitchen had the look of a farmhouse kitchen, with a big table and chairs in the middle. It was here where they talked, planned their day, paid their bills and organized their life. Today, they did not talk; they sat down and forced themselves to eat. Margaret was trembling; she could hardly hold the fork. She hadnt eaten anything all day and felt weak and dizzy from

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the low level of glucose in her blood. She knew she had to eat to feel better. Matthew had probably anticipated this; pasta was what the doctor would have ordered. Now, tell me all about it; or just tell me what you havent already told me on the phone. When I went in this morning I saw a plastic bag that had fallen by the waste paper basket. I was picking it up when I heard George shout my name, and I didnt get the chance to look inside the bag. I forgot about it until I sat on the train. It was probably Susan or who dropped it. I shouldve told the police. Was it a supermarket bag? I dont think so. No, Im sure it wasnt. It was made of thicker plastic, like a bag from a clothes shop. She stopped talking suddenly and looked at Matthew worriedly: Susan wouldnt have gone shopping for clothes, would she? Its not likely, but possible. Do you think the murderer dropped it? Margaret, theres nothing you can do now. Phone the Inspector first thing tomorrow morning. Margaret woke up at dawn and began to think about Hughs murder and about who may have dropped the shopping bag. Then she thought about the murder weapon; it was the heavy bookend. The murderer was a strong man to kill Hugh with the first blow. So, if it was a man, would he have gone shopping for clothes? No, it wasnt the murderer who dropped the bag. Who then? In her mind, she followed her movements later in the day. She wasnt taking much notice of what the rest of the employees were doing. People went to her with questions and she answered them patiently and as best as she could, but she didnt talk to anyone at length. Now, she concentrated on the faces of women who were likely to

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have gone shopping for clothes. She remembered that Lucy didnt take a lunch hour on Wednesday. Margaret then remembered that Lucy was crying all day. She was very upset at Hughs death, but then so was Jenny and so was everybody else. Why was Lucy crying? She didnt think of asking her. Then, another thought crossed her mind; Inspector Harper asked to speak to Lucy again. Had she lied to the police? What happened to the shopping bag? Did Lucy take it? Margaret sat up in bed and whispered Lucys name. Matthew woke up: Whats up? Bad dream? I dont know what happened to the shopping bag; I remember that I left it on the reception desk. So, the person who dropped it probably took it; maybe Catherine or an employee who stayed late without you knowing. Maybe it was Lucy who dropped it. Maybe she went shopping in the evening after work. She explained: Lucy didnt take a lunch hour on Wednesday because Jenny had a hair appointment and was out for two hours. Margaret was very worried now: Matthew, she lied to the police. Why?

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Chapter thirteen

Dracons Draconian Laws were in Harpers mind on Friday morning when he sat in the canteen at the Station with Norton for a coffee and a chat before leaving for Grays Square. He was hoping that George would know why Aristotles Constitution of Athens was on Carlisles desk. He remembered his sarcastic remark to Norton the previous evening and hoped that he wasnt offended; but why would he be offended? Chris too, could have become a lawyer. On the other hand, such comments wouldnt do much for his confidence as a police officer. Whats happening about Carlisles computer files, Chris? It seems all the files are password protected, sir. IT promised me theyll give it priority to override the passwords. Anyway, Mackenzie will know about Carlisles clients and about his current case. After yesterdays hectic goings-on, today it was necessary to plan the day ahead; to think about the situation. Well see Lucy first said Harper. Doesnt she know that withholding information from the police is an offence? I believe she saw someone and for some reason she doesnt want us to know whom she saw. Well persevere until she does. What if she starts crying again, sir?

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We wont let her crying hamper our investigation. Next, well see Mackenzie, and afterwards well go to the Law College, to talk to Matthew Abbott. It is a possibility that behind this faade of goodness that Hugh Carlisle displayed to the world, there was something sinister in his character and we failed to see it. That sounds unlikely, sir. Even so, Abbott was his best friend and the only person whod know everything theres to know about Carlisle. What do you make of all this talk about Customs and Excise, sir? Fraud; Carlisle was writing a report to Customs and Excise. Weinberg was going to a conference on fraud where Customs and Excise would be present. Do you suspect that Weinberg was mixed up in fraud, sir? To attend a conference on fraud doesnt mean that he was mixed up in fraud; it could be a coincidence. What about Barker? Was it a coincidence that he went to a conference organized by Customs and Excise? No, it wasnt a coincidence, Chris. Surely you can see that Barker went to that conference to approach Weston? And we mustnt forget the accessory who gave the murderer the keys. More than one person is involved in Carlisles murder, except we have no proof that anyone of those we spoke to is involved. Who do you think Carlisle went to talk to Harrington about, sir? Weinberg; he didnt want to talk to Harrington with Weinberg present. Doesnt it follow that what he had found out implicated Weinberg? What about Carlisles storage box, sir? What do you make of its contents? Id say young Hugh was thoroughly studious. Those quotations and notes of world events are a learning experience.

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He made notes of everything he read, sir. You wouldve thought hed put them in the computer when computers became available. And the icons must be valuable. Somehow I dont think Carlisle kept them because of their monetary value. What interested me more, were the biographies of saints. All of them suffered for their cause, but I found no clues as to why they may have influenced Carlisles lifestyle. Carlisle didnt live the life of a hermit; he didnt spent days fasting, or praying for hours on end. But no matter; Matthew Abbott may tell us more. They drove to Grays Square and parked the car at the opposite side from Harrington Lewis. The autumn leaves that had fallen during the night had covered every bit of ground and they dragged their feet as they walked, shuffling the leaves in the hope that among the beer cans and crisp bags theyd stumble on something the search team had failed to spot. Harper didnt give permission to sweep the debris. The search team had found nothing, but he felt that as long as the rubbish remained, there was a chance something might turn up. They walked to the front door slowly, throwing a glance now and then at the tall and spacious Georgian terraced buildings. Squirrels hopped underneath the mature trees in the middle; the calm and peaceful atmosphere was a marked contrast to the busy road just round the corner. Theres an old-fashioned charm about this place said Harper. One can imagine governesses pushing prams a century or so ago. Pity the idyllic scenery didnt deter the murderer. Youd think youre in a country village somewhere, sir. To save time Chris, Ill speak to Mackenzie and you go and talk to Lucy again. If she starts crying, persevere until she tells you why shes crying.

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As soon as they stepped inside Harrington Lewis, they saw that something was wrong. Instead of Lucy, Jenny was sitting at the reception desk with tears streaming down her smiling face. Margaret was standing beside her and she too, appeared to be in tears. Margarets voice was trembling when she spoke: Lucy had an accident yesterday evening. A hit and run motorist knocked her off her bicycle and shes unconscious in hospital. Jenny sobbed: Please God, dont let her die. Chris, get on to the Station and find out how theyre doing with forensics. Margaret interrupted him: Can I talk to you in my room, Inspector? Theres something I forgot to mention in the interview and now I think it may be important. Margaret seemed to have lost her composure. They followed her in her room and she sat down looking shattered. She tried to pour some water in a glass from a bottle on her desk. Norton was quick to see that she needed help and poured the water for her. Harper was concerned: What is it Mrs Abbott? Inspector, Im to blame. I forgot to mention a plastic bag that I saw on the floor near the waste-paper basket by the reception desk when I came in yesterday morning. What with George shouting my name and with the shock from seeing Hughs body, the small detail of a plastic bag on the floor escaped me completely. Please explain, Mrs Abbott said Harper. Lucy didnt take a lunch hour on Wednesday because Jenny was at the hairdressers from twelve oclock until two. She mustve met friends after work and they went round the shops for a couple of hours in the evening. I remembered the bag

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as I went through the events of the day in my mind when I sat on the train on my way home. Later, I also remembered that Lucy was crying all day. They both guessed immediately; Harper couldnt speak from the shock. Norton was first to recover: Are you saying that Lucy came back here after she had been shopping for a couple of hours, and that it was her who dropped the bag? What reason did she have to come inside? To pick up her crash helmet; she usually left her bicycle chained in the bicycle bay in the Square, but left her helmet in her desk drawer. The picture Harper saw in his mind was too terrifying and when he spoke, he whispered, as if he was letting out a secret: She saw the murderer, Chris. Yes sir. Does she have a set of keys? No. She sometimes took the spare set from my top desk drawer without asking me. I didnt notice if it was missing. The realization that Lucy may have seen the murderer shook Harper, and for a moment he felt as bad as Margaret. He soon recovered though and went into action: Mrs Abbott, have you told anyone about the shopping bag? To Jenny? I told my husband. Dont say anything to anyone else. Not even to Harrington or Weinberg. Chris, phone the Station. I want a WPC posted outside the ward. Whoever tried to kill her will try again. On the way to the hospital, it became clear that Harper was more distraught by Lucys accident than he had let Margaret see:

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I know what happens when a witness crosses the path of a murderer; the murderer will stop at nothing to silence the witness. But why would anyone withhold such vital information? Does Lucy too, just like Weston, lack common sense? Shes young, sir. Shes young, Chris, but I dont think shes stupid. If she were stupid would they trust her to sit at the reception desk? Maybe it was the shock of coming so close to someone who was murdered right in front of her desk, sir. She saw someone Chris, Im sure of that. Was it someone she knew? A key holder, a member of staff or a partner, and thats why she was upset? Or a client she knew well? Why cover up for a murderer? Perhaps he threatened her. My point is Chris, whether he threatened her or not she shouldve told us. We wouldve caught him by now and her life wouldnt be in danger. He thought for a moment and then he said with certainty: No one threatened her, Chris. She saw someone and that person saw her, but I believe she didnt see the body on Wednesday evening. If she had, the murderer wouldve killed her too. Harper was furious with Norton and yelled at him: Did you ask her all the questions you shouldve asked, Chris? Couldnt you tell if she was hiding something? I assumed she was upset because of Carlisles murder, sir. Learn not to assume, Chris. Ask again and again until you get an answer. But Im to blame, too. I shouldve known that something was wrong when I saw her on

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my way out yesterday with tears in her eyes. I didnt stop to ask why she was crying because I had more pressing matters to deal with. When they arrived at the hospital, two police officers were standing outside Lucys ward. Lucy had her eyes closed and was breathing with the help of a machine. She was in a coma when the paramedics brought her in but had regained consciousness since. The doctor said it was quite a blow but the helmet helped to minimize the injury. He wouldnt let them talk to her and couldnt say how long it would be before she was well enough to be interviewed. Harper reassured Jean Andrews, Lucys mother: Well do everything we can to arrest whoever did this, Mrs Andrews. Inspector, please tell me, was it an accident or did someone try to kill her? Why are the police here? Did you speak to Lucy yesterday, Mrs Andrews? Yes. She phoned to tell me that the barrister was murdered. She sounded very upset; I think she was crying. We couldnt say much because I was at work. She said shed talk to me about it later and that it was important. Did she phone you on Wednesday evening before she came home? She phoned me when she arrived in Grays Square at about six minutes past eight. She told me not to wait for her and that shed go to my sisters house later with her boyfriend. Did she say anything else when you saw her? No; she was happy and enjoyed the fireworks.

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They went back to the Station to liaise with the officers who were at the scene of Lucys accident, and to find out if forensics had come up with any clues. Harper had no doubt that it was an attempt to kill her. Whoever it was she saw on Wednesday evening Chris, did not upset her. Mrs Andrews said that Lucy was happy and enjoyed the fireworks. Even if it was the murderer she saw, she couldnt have known it then. Do you think Carlisle was dead by the time she went inside the building? Yes. Mrs Andrews said that Lucy phoned her at about six minutes past eight. It probably took her a couple of minutes to walk to the front door and unlock it. She may have lingered for a minute before she went in. The murderer had gone inside probably immediately after eight and Carlisle wouldve come down from the mens washroom by five or six minutes past eight. Im quite certain that Carlisle was dead by the time Lucy went in, but only just. How come she didnt see the body, sir? You mayve noticed Chris that the staircase is visible as far as the top floor from the reception desk, but not for the first three or four steps at the bottom. She probably walked immediately towards the right of the hall to go to her desk. Whats more, she was in a hurry; she rushed to get out quickly. Maybe she saw a partner, sir, and thats why she found herself in a difficult position, to tell or not to tell. Weve checked their alibis; theyve all been verified. Maybe someone lied. Maybe theres a conspirator among Carlisles close companions and associates, like Caroline Wood said. So, which close companion or associate havent we interviewed yet, Chris?

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Chapter fourteen

When the phone rang at eight-fifteen in the morning on Thursday the 6 of November, it startled Matthew Abbott. He went to answer it, as hed normally do, but then for some reason, he hesitated. He began to feel a little uneasy; who could it be? Its me, darling said Margaret. It was a relief to hear her voice but the silence that followed the greeting was long-drawn-out; it somehow disconcerted him; he was frightened. Something mustve happened. And then she told him. She asked him to phone Arthur; it would be better if Arthur told Veronica. Matthew went in his study and sat at his desk with his head in his hands. He cast his mind back twenty-five years, and remembered the first time he saw him. He had come to give a talk at the College and Margaret said to introduce himself; he was her colleague and they should get to know each other. They did; and they got on very well. Over the years, their families got closer together and their children had become friends. He began to reminisce. He thought back to the time when he graduated with a Law degree. He couldnt make up his mind which career path to follow; to practice law or to lecture in law. Eventually, after a lot of thought, he decided to become a lecturer, and although he wasnt certain at first if he had made the right choice, he never regretted it. It seemed to him that teaching the public how to go through life

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observing the law, was more important than trying to defend them when they stepped out of line. He compared Hughs determination with his own indecisiveness. When Hugh graduated with a first-class Law degree, he had already planned his career to retirement. He knew what he wanted to do and how to achieve his goal. He trained as a barrister and achieved exceptional advocacy skills; he made it his vocation to teach anyone who was interested, how to become as good as he was. Matthew saw how people gathered around him; Hugh Carlisle inspired them, they were his disciples. He could never understand how Veronica had the heart to leave him for Arthur. On the other hand, she wasnt a scholar like Hugh. And now, he would spend the rest of his life missing him. How does one come to terms with the loss of a loved one? A sense of despair began to get hold of him and he was overcome with sadness. His eyes filled with tears and he burst out in sobs. He was thankful he was alone in the house, he would calm down before Margaret got back. He must control his emotions for everyones sake. From the moment Margaret phoned to tell him that Hugh was dead, he had been waiting for something to happen so that he could burst out of this feeling of angst. There was tightness in his chest and he felt the need to explode; he couldnt breathe from the weight. He was glad Inspector Harper asked to talk to him; it would be easy talking to a stranger. He had nothing to hide, anyway.

Except for his greying hair, one could mistake Matthew Abbott for a student; his cashmere sweater and grey flannel trousers were ample on his svelte body. And then, there was a blank expression in his eyes; as if he looked but he didnt see. Harper

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attributed this trait to youth. Maybe it was there because of the sadness and the loneliness; understandable when one loses a lifelong friend. Mr Abbott, you told Constable Russell that between eight and nine on Wednesday evening, you were at home with Mrs Abbott. Can you confirm it to us, please? Inspector, Im sure youve realized by now, that no one of Hughs friends and acquaintances wouldve lifted a finger to harm him. Yes, I confirm I was at home with Margaret. When was the last time you saw Mr Carlisle? We had lunch together on Monday. I understand from Mrs Abbott that he was a family friend. Is there anything you can tell us that might help us in our investigation? No, Inspector. I also understand from Mrs Abbott that you and Mr Carlisle met regularly for many years. How often did you meet? At least once a week. Where did you meet? It was convenient to meet for lunch either near the College or near Grays Square. Sometimes we met for a drink after work. Did you join his discussion groups in Harrington Lewis? I did, for a few years. I havent done so for several years now. Why did you stop going? Your question is not relevant, Inspector. Nevertheless, will you kindly answer it?

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Very well; I stopped going because I preferred to meet him at his house. We both wanted the privacy. Shall I interpret that any way I want, or would you care to explain? Ask me the questions Inspector, and I shall give you the answers. What was your relationship with Hugh Carlisle? I was in love with him. I see; you were lovers. I didnt say that; I said I was in love with him. What am I supposed to make of that, Mr Abbott? Inspector, you know very well, that in a murder investigation one shouldnt shun from asking a question, for fear of embarrassing the recipient. Did you have a sexual relationship with Hugh Carlisle, Mr Abbott? I wish I did. But Ill begin at the beginning. We met in this College, twentyfive years ago and immediately I knew that I wanted to see him again. I wrongly presumed then that Hugh also wanted to see me for the same reasons. If he did, he had the strength of character to resist temptation; I had not. I need precise answers; so tell me, why did you want to see him again? Must I spell every word, Inspector? Cant you guess? Like you said, Mr Abbott, to presume leads to blunders. I wanted to have an affair with Hugh. And did you have an affair with him, Mr Abbott? No. Extra-marital affairs werent Hughs idea on how one should conduct their life. Anyway, I accepted it; as long as we were in each others company, I was happy. We remained best of friends; just a deep brotherly love. I tried to convince myself that it wouldnt be the same if our love was sexual and nothing more. Despite

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that, he was someone for whom I would do anything; I wouldve pursued an affair with him if I thought Id have a chance. And I thought I had a chance when, a couple of years ago, Veronica moved out. And his daughter went to Oxford. Thats right. I went to see him and we sat down to talk. It was easy, Inspector, to fall in each others arms, and thats what I hoped would happen. Only, it didnt happen. As soon as I started to confess my love for him, he interrupted me; I suppose he wanted to save me the embarrassment of making a fool of myself. He said that what we had was beautiful, why spoil it? I pleaded with him but he said it was unethical because he was still married. I was ashamed and angry but I had to accept then that our love was destined to remain platonic. I never mentioned it again. We continued to see each other as before, and although Hugh was willing to meet at his house, I avoided it unless there were others present; I didnt trust myself to keep calm and collected. Matthew stopped talking and got up: And now I have work to do. Is that all? Harper asked as if the revelations didnt impress him. The conversation ended abruptly and he suspected that a lot may have been left unsaid. Is there more to tell? he persisted. Nothing thats relevant, Inspector. This is a murder investigation, Mr Abbott. Ill decide whats relevant. So, I am asking you again; is there anything more you can tell us? Inspector, I spent the last twenty-five years talking with Hugh. Of course theres more to tell. None of it is relevant, but you may find it interesting. Have you had the chance to look in his shabby storage box?

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I browsed through it; I saw the bibles, the icons and the crucifix, the notepads filled with quotations and other notes in childish handwriting; and several biographies of saints. I saw nothing extraordinary; he had underlined passages which obviously had made an impression. Its usual to do that especially in adolescence. Obviously, his life in the vicarage evolved around saints. In more ways than you can imagine, Inspector. During his childhood he did nothing but read. Everything he read mustve made an impression on him, because he filled one notebook after another. He opened the box from time to time in the course of his life and read those extracts that he liked most. As for the biographies, he was especially attached to his favourite saints. Who were they, Mr Abbott? There are three books in the box which he kept together with an elastic band. Theyre about the lives of three saints of the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Three Holy Hierarchs as theyre called; John the Chrysostom, Basil the Great and Gregory the Theologian. Ill tell you about St John the Chrysostom first, or as hes also known, St John of Golden Words. Hugh owed his successful career to him. This Saint was born in a province in southern Turkey around the middle of the fourth century AD and had studied Law under the famous pagan tutor Libanius. John the Chrysostom had an extraordinary talent as an orator. His eloquent speeches and sermons earned him the admiration of the whole known world. He was Hughs role model in his profession. Hugh told me that he was inspired by this saints personality and strived to achieve perfection in his own career as a lawyer. At least something positive resulted from all this religious knowledge. It seems to me Mr Abbott that Hugh Carlisles early education was commendable.

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Up to a point, Inspector, it was; but not in every way. Matthew continued: Now, Ill tell you about Basil the Great and Gregory the Theologian. They too, were born in wealthy families in a province in southern Turkey around the middle of the fourth century AD, and spent a few years living and studying together away from home. They studied Law among several other subjects, first in Constantinople, also under Libanius, and then in the Lyceum, Aristotles teaching institution in Athens, where they lived together for six years. The odd thing is, neither of the three actually practiced Law; they all became preachers. Basil lived the life of a hermit for a few years. I saw from the start of our acquaintance that Hugh was fascinated by those two saints, but it wasnt until Veronica left him that I realized the full extent of his obsession with them and why they had influenced his lifestyle. Why, Mr Abbott? As I told you, during his childhood and adolescence, he did nothing but read; he didnt form close relationships with anyone. Basil and Gregory filled that void in his life; he developed a kind of friendship with them, albeit unworldly. He abided by their morals, and to a certain extent he copied their lifestyle; or so he believed. In what way Mr Abbott? Basil and Gregory never married; and so, Hugh believed, they never had sex. He came to the conclusion that chastity is saintly so he chose to follow their example and live a saints life in a modern world. He grew up to believe that a single man or woman shouldnt form sexual relationships; thats allowed only with ones spouse. So, he couldnt have sex with say, Olivia Wilmot who was quite infatuated with him, or with another man. Basil and Gregory never had sex together, surely? The question is best left unanswered, Mr Abbott.

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Basil and Gregory were inseparable. They lived together and did everything together. They were content with each others company and didnt mix with their fellow students who were rich, and lived the good life in Athens. Basil and Gregory avoided them because they went with women. Why didnt Basil and Gregory go with women? They were in their twenties, Inspector; they must have had sex needs and they most certainly fulfilled them; we can guess how, but why didnt Hugh guess what was going on when he became an adult? He added sadly: Basil and Gregory had each other; Hugh had no one. He mustve met people in Oxford said Harper. And it was then that the problems started. Hugh was looking for a friend, not a sex partner. He had to invent excuse after excuse to turn down offers. He suppressed his sexual needs; he told me so. After all, isnt that what Basil and Gregory did? In Oxford, they began to be suspicious of Hugh. Who was he? Or what was he? Was he a fundamentalist belonging to an extreme code or belief? You could say that, I suppose. Then, he met Veronica. He could see that she wanted him so he said: wouldnt it be romantic to wait until we were married? She agreed, on the understanding that it wouldnt be too long. He decided that they should get married without delay. How could he tell her that he believed it was a sin to have sex with anyone other than ones spouse? Shed probably think he was mad and leave him. They got married a week after they met, without planning the wedding, without inviting guests, or letting anyone know. So you see, Inspector, Hugh couldnt shake off Basil and Gregorys supposedly chaste lifestyle; not for a moment did it cross his mind that things may not have been how they looked. There are some people, Mr Abbott, for whom chastity is a way of life.

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And what a miserable way of life it was for Hugh, Inspector. I wonder, didnt he meet anyone when he was a student to tell him that its more normal to gratify ones sexual needs than to suppress them? All the years Ive known him I tried to find someone to blame; was it his parents fault? He was surrounded by books unsuitable for his age from the age of four. Can a young persons mind cope with that kind of information? He was influenced beyond repair. I remember reading a quotation in one of his notepads; I often looked through his box and some of the writings stayed in my mind. I read this again after Veronica left him and wondered if it had registered in his mind: When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. Obviously, it had no effect on Hugh; he continued to reason like a child. I think he became obsessed with Basil and Gregory because, when he first read about them, he was trying to come to terms with his own sexuality; puberty had set in and his hormones were playing havoc in his body. He believed that Basil and Gregory coped by applying self-control. I asked him how he arrived at that conclusion and he said it was their only option because homosexuality, and giving oneself sexual pleasure, were, and still are, sins; therefore, not an option. So, if he followed their example, he too, could cope. Only it didnt end after puberty; he continued to abide by their principles throughout his life. I suppose he did not anticipate the consequences. All we can do is to suppose, Mr Abbott. Im Head of the Law Faculty in this College, Inspector. I love my job and I know that my students appreciate the attention I give them. But I have to be honest with myself and say that I couldnt have done it without Hughs support and

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encouragement. I shall cherish his memory for the rest of my life, but at the same time I shall regret that I did not have an affair with him; its too late for redemption.

On their way to the Station, Harper thought about Matthew Abbotts disturbing confession. What does one do when one is faced with unrequited love? Does one become a murderer? Could he have killed Hugh Carlisle, the man he was in love with? Isnt that what happens when a jealous lover loses his sense? Abbott though had no reason to be jealous. There were no lovers in Carlisles life. So, if it wasnt jealousy, what then? Anger, perhaps; thats right, Abbott was angry, he said so; and ashamed; how could he go through life knowing that he had made a fool of himself? Is it blasphemy to say that the saints were gay, sir? They were students; their saintly status came later. Im surprised that Abbott went so far as to appear a fool, sir. Surely he mustve realized after so many years of being close to Carlisle, that if Carlisle wanted to have an affair with him he wouldve made it clear? Do you think he suspected rejection? Even if he did, he wouldnt have heeded it. If Matthew Abbott is the murderer, it means that his wife lied about her alibi. Do you think Mrs Abbott is capable of lying? No, Chris, shes not. We have to consider the possibility that Abbott conspired with someone to have Carlisle murdered. Someone like John Barker. Well, its unlikely, but right now we have to consider it. Matthew Abbott didnt ask us to say nothing to his wife.

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Somehow I dont think he cares if she finds out. Were not going to mention it unless we have reason to believe that hes lying. Harper changed the subject: Russell and a Constable went through Carlisles diary and spoke to all whose name was in it; they checked their alibis. He didnt speak to everyone immediately and he suspects that some may have arranged those alibis. Well have to interview them. Russell has made a start but we must help him out. Well need another desk and one more computer in the incident room, sir. Arrange for that as soon as possible. Next, well have Weston help us compose an identikit of Barker. Someone is bound to recognise him; one of his clients perhaps, or a police officer somewhere in the country. Well find out who Barker is and hell lead us to the murderer. When is the artist coming? Between one and two oclock, sir. Just then, the reception phoned to tell them that the artist who would be doing the identikit had arrived. Harper telephoned Margaret to tell her that they were on their way to bring Catherine Weston to the Station. He ended the phone call and looked anxiously at Norton: Catherine Weston didnt go to work today, Chris. Mrs Abbott cant get in touch with her; she isnt answering her phone.

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Chapter fifteen

On the way to Edgware they did not talk. Harper was feeling more than a slight premonition. He could sense that something had happened, and although he knew what it was without even needing to think about it, he darent say it aloud. The small terraced house, in which Catherine Weston lived, adjoined hall-tohall to the next house, with a short distance between the two front doors. The path that led to her front door from her gate was stone, and the house was partly hidden behind a high privet hedge. A car was parked on the road outside, but there was no answer when they rang the bell. She may be out, sir. She may be, but do a check on that car. The car was Westons. We must get in, Chris. Harper rang the bell and knocked on the door repeatedly. She may still be out, sir. Do you really believe so, Chris? Norton didnt answer; maybe, because he didnt really believe so; or, maybe, because unlike Harper, hed think twice before creating such a commotion. Harper wasnt going to give up easily. I hope this racket brings the neighbours out. I hope sooner rather than later. He was right. A middle-aged woman emerged from the house next door:

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May I ask why you keep on knocking? She must be out. Harper took a few steps towards her and spoke quietly: Madam, were sorry to disturb you. Were police officers and would like to talk to Miss Weston as a matter of urgency. Have you seen her today? May I see your warrant card? Yes, of course, madam. Im Detective Inspector Harper of the Metropolitan Police and this is Detective Sergeant Norton. Did you happen to see Miss Weston today, Mrs? Burrows; Elizabeth Burrows. Not today, Inspector. When did you see her last, Mrs Burrows? I didnt see her, but I know she had a visitor yesterday evening. How do you know that, Mrs Burrows? As you can see Inspector, the front doors of these houses are close together. One can hear the bell and even the conversation. And did you hear the conversation? No. Perhaps because there wasnt any. She explained: I heard the bell shortly after eight. She mustve opened the door because I heard it close. A minute or so later, I heard the door close again. I listened and heard the footsteps down the path to her gate. Thats all. Do you hear her when she leaves for work in the morning? Yes. She drives to the station; the red car is hers. Theres something wrong, isnt there, Inspector? We wont know unless we go inside. Come through to my back garden and jump over the fence; you can look through her kitchen window. I leave mine slightly ajar sometimes.

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Mrs Burrows led the way through her narrow hall to the small kitchen and opened the back door. Harper walked closely behind Norton who went out in the garden and climbed over the fence. He mustve seen something through the kitchen window, because he signed to Harper with a slight nod: The door between the kitchen and the hall is open, sir. The house is Eastfacing and the light that comes through the partly-glazed front door brightens up the passage. I can see everything. He went to the door of the back room, broke a pane of glass and inserted his hand through the gap to slide the bolt. Harper started to walk back through Mrs Burrowss house trying to think of a way to stop her from following him. He decided that the best way under the circumstances was to ask her directly: Mrs Burrows, please stay in your house so that we can get on with our inquiries. Yes, of course, Inspector, but Id like to know if shes alright. Well speak to you before we leave. Catherine Weston was lying on her side very close to the front door. They crouched to look at the body. She was wearing the same clothes she wore when they interviewed her on Thursday, and the strands of her long, unkempt hair fell on her face concealing most of it. It looked like she had been strangled. Phone for the pathologist and the usual, Chris. The murderer must have arrived as soon as she came in, sir. She didnt even have the chance to take off her shoes. There are bits of gravel stuck on the soles from the newly laid tarmac.

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The murderer moved quickly. Why did she let him in? Didnt she learn from her experience with Barker on Wednesday to be wary of callers? Obviously not; someone rang the bell and she opened the door carelessly, without putting the chain on. He pushed her in before either of them spoke. Mrs Burrows said that she didnt hear a conversation. Do you think it was Barker, sir? Barker wouldve spoken a few words of apology at the doorstep. And anyone selling anything wouldve talked at the doorstep. The caller wasnt selling; he went right in. What if someone saw him push his way in, sir? It was dark, and the privet hedge, though narrow, is high and hides the door from the street and from the view of the houses opposite, though not from the bedrooms upstairs. It was early, and most people watch television downstairs. He took a chance. He was so quick that she had no time to react in any way. So, it couldnt have been Barker, sir. It could have been him. Weston wouldve wanted to know why she couldnt get in touch. He wouldve pretended that he came to apologize and she was so infatuated, that she believed him and let him come inside. We decided that Barker wouldve apologized at the doorstep, sir. Barker couldve whispered his apologies, and because she lacked common sense, she didnt think of asking him why hes whispering; just as it happened on Wednesday when he dragged her across Grays Square, and although she was in difficulty and couldnt keep up with him, she didnt voice her objection. Anyway, while apologizing, he wouldve no difficulty in getting a foot inside the door. There was a touch of regret in Harpers voice when he said:

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Weston was a woman with low self-esteem; she wouldve let anyone in, anyone who flattered her and brought her flowers, or in her case, chocolates. She needed counselling to overcome her complexes.

The pathologist gave a quick assessment of the time of death and weapon used: She died about seventeen to eighteen hours ago, at about eight yesterday evening. She was strangled with a soft material, like a scarf or a tie. As always, youll get my report as soon as I do the autopsy. The forensic team tested the whole house for fingerprints but Harper didnt expect them to find anything. The murderer didnt venture further into the house; he strangled her, let her fall on the floor and walked out quickly in case any inquisitive neighbours were spying from behind the curtains. Harper believed he relied on speed so as not to be seen by the neighbours. Anyone who may have heard someone going in wouldnt expect to hear someone coming out within a couple of minutes. Nevertheless, the searches had to be done. By the time the preliminary work was completed and the special van came to take her away, a crowd had gathered outside. How did she die, Inspector? asked Mrs Burrows. We wont know until after the autopsy, Mrs Burrows. Did she live alone? Yes; sometimes her mother came for a short stay. Thank you, Mrs Burrows. Well be in touch with her. When the door to door enquiries were under way and a Constable was posted at the front door, they sat in the car to think through the situation before making their way back. Harper was alarmed though not altogether surprised. There was a tone of guilt in his voice when at last, he broke the silence:

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The murderer was ahead of us, Chris. Weston could identify Barker as the man who took her to dinner and acted as an accessory to Carlisles murder. Barker didnt want Weston to identify him and moved fast. We shouldve foreseen it. So, Barker was involved in this murder also, sir? Barker is an accessory. We know hes a manipulative man. He persuaded someone to commit Carlisles murder, so now, why commit this murder himself? Barker had something to do with this murder but he did not commit it. Committing murder denotes stupidity, so we must credit him with some intelligence. Theres someone who lets Barker manipulate them; someone brainless, like Carlisles murderer who locked the front door. Grays Square, sir? Yes. We may find some clues when we search Westons room and look through her computer files. She disliked Weinberg because he criticized her work. Id like to know why he criticized her work. Maybe her work wasnt up to the required standard, sir. So, why did they let her stay for eight years? Maybe their feelings of dislike were mutual, sir. Thats what it looks like, Chris. Maybe Weinberg criticized her work because he too, disliked her. Like you said, sir, she didnt know how to be charming. It was the nature of the job, Chris. It didnt call for a lively personality. Youre contradicting yourself, sir. Yes, alright; you can have the last word. The priority now, Chris, is to find Barker. Did you find out what time Chez Marcos open?

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Theyre open all day, sir, but the evening waiters come at six. Whoever served them on Wednesday evening wont be there yet. We have two murders and an attempted murder and still no motive. Can you think of a personality flaw that might apply to Carlisle? Isnt it a flaw to be an idealist, sir? Its an outdated virtue. What about the seven deadly sins? Sloth, gluttony, lust This isnt the time to be flippant. Sorry sir. Our chat with Mackenzie is overdue; well talk to him in Carlisles room. I hope he can tell us something to give us a lead. They went to Grays Square to find out from George if any of Carlisles clients bore ill-feelings towards him. That was unlikely, but as always, Harper wanted confirmation. On the other hand, as a prosecution counsel, the defendants feared him. Maybe someone had successfully stopped him from appearing as a prosecutor in their pending court case.

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Chapter sixteen

Sitting in Carlisles chair, Inspector Harper tried to imagine the atmosphere when George came in this room for his tutorial with Carlisle. He understood now the kind of relationship that existed between them. Georges openness about his feelings towards Carlisle shocked him at first, but after a while he realized that the love he had talked about was a deep, everlasting affection. They both expressed their gratitude for each other their way. Carlisle took an interest in Georges work and gave him his time and attention wholeheartedly, and George repaid him by loving him. What else can you tell me about Hugh Carlisle, Mr Mackenzie? I can tell you about the dream I had, Inspector. Last night I dreamt that Hugh was alive and well and I had gone to look for him; I was standing inside a gate from where I could see a landscape full of colour; it looked like a painting depicting a land of plenty, with flowers in bloom and trees budding. This must be Paradise, I thought, the Garden of Eden where Adam and Eve lived when God created them. I stepped forward and mixed with the floating spirits looking for Hugh. No one spoke. I was concerned about this; how could Hugh go through life on Earth or in Heaven, in silence? And then I woke up and for a few moments I lived in the dream before the painful reality hit me. Do you feel at ease to talk to us here? Shall we go in your room?

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It is heartbreaking coming in this room and not seeing Hugh; but Ill be fine. Ask me what you want to know, Inspector. Tell us about his current case. The case, Marinos Bakery v. Money4youLtd, was due to come to court in two weeks. Marinos Bakery is a small family business in Battersea specializing in cakes; it was established in the early sixties. The owners were in financial difficulties and needed a cash injection to continue until business picked up. Soon after the leaseholder Mr Sabatini renewed the lease, the health inspectors demanded that he brought equipment up to date. The bakery was in need of complete refurbishment to comply with the health and safety regulations. Mr Sabatini was reluctant to abandon it because it had been a very good business providing a modest but steady income over many years. Did Mr Sabatini approach Mr Carlisle directly? No. The brief came from Mr Weinberg. Please continue, Mr Mackenzie. Unfortunately, the bank refused him a loan so he approached the company Money4youLtd, and was given more than what he was asking from the bank. The loan was repayable in five years with an interest rate of thirty per cent. The terms of the agreement were that in case of default, Money4youLtd would take possession of Marinos assets; those assets were their family home. In addition, they would take over the bakery and the owners would be working there as employees getting only the minimum wage until the full amount was repaid. In other words the owners were in the hands of the loan company and would be treated as their slaves. At least, thats how Hugh saw it. And they signed a contract for this?

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Yes. However, as a result of a downturn in the economy, they couldnt keep up the loan repayments so now they stood to lose not only their home and possessions but also their personal freedom; this is typical of the cases which Hugh would take on and win. Its rather unusual to make such demands; is it legal? Its not illegal if the other party signs the contract. What the loan company were doing was unethical. If Mr Sabatini had spoken to a legal adviser before he signed, no doubt he wouldve been warned not to sign. Harper picked up the Constitution of Athens by Aristotle which had been left on the desk with the rest of the books. Have you read this book Mr Mackenzie? Yes, Inspector, I read it as part of my research for my dissertation. Was Mr Carlisle planning to use it in his arguments and make comparisons with the situation the present claimant, Marinos Bakery, is in? Yes. He was going to do exactly that. The case of Marinos Bakery is a good example of Dracons Draconian Laws. Tell us about Dracons Laws, Mr Mackenzie. Dracon ruled Athens in the late 7th century BC; one of the laws that he enforced was to secure loans on the debtors person. Can you explain in laymans terms? I lend you a sum of money to be repaid by a certain time and I ask you to sign a contract to agree that if you fail to pay it back, I have the right not only to seize everything you possess, but also to subject you, your family and your relations, to a life of slavery. From now on and for as long as you, your family and your relations live, you will be my slaves with no human rights whatsoever and theres nothing you

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can do to change it. Solon succeeded Dracon in the early 6th century BC, and as soon as he was head of the affairs of the state, he freed people of this law by making all loans on the security of the debtors person, illegal. And in addition, he introduced new laws which cancelled all private and public debts. The Athenians called his legislation the removal of burdens. In your opinion, would Mr Carlisle have won this case? Hugh was a first-rate prosecutor. I followed his cases and I can say definitely that he wouldve won this case. But it wasnt only Hugh who felt sure he would win the case, Inspector. He suspected that the directors of the loan company also believed that he might win it. Why do you say that? On Wednesday afternoon he told me that a couple of days earlier he had obtained some incriminating information on Stanley Duffy and Roy Clifford; theyre the directors of the loan company. This information wasnt connected to the case therefore he couldnt use it. He told me that he wasnt ready to discuss it with me just yet, but I believe it was more incriminating than the unethical contract of the loan. I suspect they knew of his reputation and they feared he would find a way to use it against them. So, what happens now? Is there going to be a hearing? Mr Weinberg asked me if I would take on the case and I accepted. How do you feel about it, Mr Mackenzie? In the four months that I worked with Hugh, I learned more about speaking for clients in court than what I learned from studying for an advocacy certificate. I shall win the case, Inspector. My only regret is that Hugh wont be there to hear me. Thank you Mr Mackenzie. Youve shed some light in this callous crime.

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Harper picked up the Constitution of Athens and put it in his briefcase. Norton was watching him closely. This is evidence, Chris he said. Then he added, as in answer to Nortons unspoken question: Of course, Ill bring it back.

Harper couldnt have anticipated the feeling of elation he now felt on the way out from Harrington Lewis: It sounds too good to be true, Chris. We shall persevere until we find proof that Duffy and Clifford have been involved in criminal dealings. We need their fingerprints and DNA. We must keep trying until we exhaust all sources of information. Shall we pass by Chez Marcos, sir? No. Chez Marcos will have to wait. Back at the Station they did not waste time. First, they searched the national database, and then Norton phoned Police Stations around the country. Stanley Duffy is well known to several police forces around Britain, sir. He raises capital for loans through his business as a property developer. The manner with which he obtains these properties is dubious and thats why he came to the attention of the police. He chooses vulnerable companies to lend money to. He is very astute as to how a certain business is going to go in the near future. Thats some business acumen interrupted Harper. Well, no sir, it isnt him who has the business acumen; its his partner, the other director of the company, the accountant Roy Clifford. Is Clifford a professional accountant?

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Yes sir. Money4youLtd isnt the only business Roy Clifford has dealings with. He files accounts for several companies and has a very good idea as to which one is about to collapse financially. He advises the client to get a loan, Duffy then steps in, and the rest is easy. In due course, Money4youLtd get hold of the assets of the failing company and the borrowers are in no position to fight. Complaints are made to the police but there are no grounds to prosecute. Does anyone have their fingerprints, DNA, or a photograph? We have all the information about Duffy, sir. A Constable on the Isle of Man told me that about five years ago they arrested him for GBH. He was convicted but released on appeal because he claimed that he was provoked. It was only his word against the victims, consequently, lacking the proof of beyond reasonable doubt the appeal judges reversed the court ruling. Isle of Man has posted Duffys fingerprints and DNA on the database together with his photograph. Unfortunately, sir, no one has anything incriminating on Clifford. The burden of the latest developments, of Westons murder and of Lucys attempted murder, fell heavily on Harpers mind; catching the murderer became a matter of extreme urgency. Now, he was slightly optimistic, though he tried not to build up his hopes just yet.

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Chapter seventeen

Mark Hawthorne asked for a meeting with Harper as soon as he heard of Carlisles murder on Thursday. He was an agreeable young man in his mid-thirties, well-known for his courteous manner towards his colleagues at the Station and towards everybody. Harper now believed it was because of Carlisles influence; he had to admit that the people in Carlisles life were superior; they also had one thing in common, something other that their love for Carlisle; they spoke beautifully. Harper hoped that Hawthorne could throw some light in the investigation; he would ask him for more information on Carlisles circle of friends and for a psychological profile on some of the suspects. He also hoped that Hawthorne would tell him more about the contents of the storage box and their influence on Carlisles character and lifestyle. It was Saturday morning however, and by now, Harper, and no doubt Norton too, were feeling the stress from the intensity of the events and from their efforts to pursue their inquiries; they couldve done with the day off. Harper didnt make plans for Sunday; right now, he would take the future one hour at a time. Well see if Hawthorne can tell us why Carlisle was murdered. It may not be as easy as that, sir. Is he going to start theorizing? Ive no time for that.

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They sat around Hawthornes desk drinking the cafetiere coffee he made for their visit. Harper decided to proceed with caution to avoid the kind of misunderstandings that arose during the interview with Mackenzie. Were you a regular participant in Hugh Carlisles seminars, Mark? Yes. I went when I could, no matter what the topic. Did everyone who went near Carlisle develop a cultivated voice? Did he teach elocution? His voice was compelling, sir; after a while we spoke like him. How long had you known Carlisle? I started going to his lectures and discussions about ten years ago though I knew of his reputation from before. Chris saw you on Thursday when you left a card and a bunch of flowers outside Harrington Lewis. Why did Carlisle mean a lot to you? Because he cared, sir; he didnt gather people around him so that he may get something out of them. Those who didnt know him well might think that he had an ulterior motive, but he didnt expect anything in return. Were you close to him? Everyone felt that they were close to Hugh; I was as close to him as anyone. Did you ever go to see him alone in his room or in his house? Yes. To save you the trouble of asking the question, sir, I did not have an affair with Hugh. What was your relationship with him? I admit that the kind of love I felt for Hugh wasnt brotherly; I never told him of course, but he mustve known. We all knew how everyone of us felt. I belong to that class of people, sir, who never disclose feelings of love or passion; they daydream

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about them. In my profession, I try to read peoples minds and I could tell that Hugh knew how we felt about him. As for his murderer, I have my suspicions. What can you tell me about his circle of friends? His circle of friends had nothing to do with his murder. All the same, Id like to know. Ill give you a report on those Ive met; youll have it by the end of the day. Did you browse through Carlisles storage box? I didnt only browse through it, sir; I read a lot of the writings in that box including some of the biographies of saints. The contents of that box are a psychologists paradise. When Hugh was a child he craved friendships. There was no one he could relate to, so rather than put up with second rate choices, he befriended the saints he read about. He was particularly influenced by Basil the Great and Gregory the Theologian. Do you know why? It was because of the unparalleled friendship that had developed between those two saints. One has only to read the letters Gregory wrote to Basil when he was dying, to understand that such friendships are rare. Do you think that their feelings for each other mayve been more intimate than feelings of friendship? With respect, sir, I dont expect everyone to understand the depth of this kind of relationship; not unless one is a qualified psychologist. Would you say that the strict religious doctrines the saints abided by were a positive influence on Carlisles character and lifestyle? Definitely. There are those whod argue that Hugh missed out on enjoyment and sensual indulgence. Theyre the kind of people who put their own needs first.

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What about character flaws? Assuming that victims are frequently flawed, can you see a flaw in Carlisles apparently flawless character? No sir. Hugh conformed to high moral values. Someone objected to his righteousness. Yes sir. He would have made enemies. Tell me about the partners; did you meet any of the partners? I saw them in the kitchen and in the washroom. I know the names of the two senior partners, but it was the younger one, Weinberg, who was there more often. I have doubts about two people in the practice; Weinberg is one. Why do you have doubts about Weinberg? I saw Weinberg several times in Harrington Lewis. When you come face to face with him you feel inferior; you get the impression that he doesnt want you near him. He treats everybody as if they were second-rate citizens. Weinberg is arrogant, sir, he wouldnt let anyone outside his own circle get close to him. The question now is, is Weinberg capable of murder or of being accessory to murder. In my opinion, if he had a strong enough motive, he would be. Whos the second person you have doubts about? Harrington. I saw him on Tuesday evening, though not inside the premises. Just before seven I was on a bus in High Holborn, on my way to see the man who was convicted of manslaughter earlier that day. I wanted to make an appointment to have a preliminary talk with him and explain my role as forensic psychologist. I saw Harrington getting in a taxi with a man. I couldnt have missed his snow white hair. What did he look like? The man he was with?

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I didnt get the chance to look at him properly. From a distance he appeared to be younger than Harrington. He wore what looked like a bespoke business suit and carried a briefcase; he was probably a solicitor. Or an accountant, Harper thought. Why dont you trust Harrington? Why do you doubt his integrity? Im only saying that Harrington has power; he knows that no one can touch him. And for that reason he believes he could do anything and get away with it. Harper had to admit that forensic psychology wasnt a pointless vocation. The question now was, was Harrington capable of abusing his power?

They went back to their office to think over what Hawthorne told them. Unlike Matthew Abbott, Mark Hawthorne didnt find Carlisles behaviour socially unacceptable. Reading about saints had been a positive influence; he grew up to become a good and righteous man. He kept the contents of the box throughout his life, to remind him of a childhood he didnt want to forget; just like Miss Wilmot said. Do you think Carlisle wouldve continued to live his life in the manner he did, if he hadnt kept the storage box and its contents, sir? He was constantly reminded of an outdated lifestyle and of old-fashioned values and morals. Itll be interesting to see what happens to the box and its contents now that hes dead. His wife will probably recycle everything. I think his daughter will keep it; she and her father were close. Shall we go and talk to Duffy now, sir? His office will be closed today. Well pay him a visit on Monday. Now, lets consider what Mark told us about the senior partners, Chris. He wasnt too far out

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from our own suspicions and I find it reassuring to have those suspicions confirmed. Weinberg is arrogant and bad-tempered. The question we must ask is this: if he had a strong motive to eliminate Carlisle, would he do so, if he knew he could get away with it? Do we suspect a possible motive apart from dislike, and a disapproval of Carlisles approach to justice? No, sir. If Harrington had a motive to eliminate Carlisle would he do so because he knows no one can touch him, and he believes that he can do anything and get away with it? Do we suspect a motive other than the motives for which we suspect Weinberg also? No, sir. Therefore, theres someone in the practice who gave the murderer the keys to get in because he wanted Carlisle out of the way. That person may not be Weinberg or Harrington because their motives are not convincing. We agreed the murderer is not an employee because all the alibis check and also because no one has lost or misplaced their keys. Thats right, sir. So, how did the murderer get the keys? Did someone lie in the interview? We know that Mrs Abbott forgot to tell us about the shopping bag and we suspect that Lucy didnt tell us the whole truth. I wouldnt like to accuse anyone of lying, so lets just say that someone forgot to mention something. Can you think of anyone? Before Norton could reply, Constable Russell came in: May I talk to you for a moment, sir? I have some information which may be relevant to the Grays Square case. Harper waited in anticipation and Russell continued:

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In the canteen earlier, I was having a chat with the visiting WPC from Bethnal Green and naturally I mentioned a few aspects of our work here, including my involvement in the search of Grays Square for the murder in Harrington Lewis. She told me that about three weeks ago, a woman cleaner she couldnt remember the name who worked evenings in those premises, was robbed, and her handbag was taken. The bag was found and except for thirty pounds cash, nothing else was missing. Harper was lost for words. Bethnal Green Police Station confirmed that the womans name was Susan Brown and that she reported the theft at nine forty-five on Friday the 17 of October The bag was handed in at twenty minutes past ten by a member of the public. They telephoned Mrs Brown to tell her, at ten thirty. It seems that Mrs Brown conspired with the murderer to be mugged in order to cover herself for giving him the keys said Harper. Do you think so, sir? Harper couldnt contain his anger: Just tell me, Chris he yelled, how come you didnt manage to get this information out of Mrs Brown in the interview? She answered the questions, sir. I asked her if there was anything else she could tell us and she said that there wasnt. I also asked if she had lost her keys at any time and again she answered that she hadnt. Theres no point in lecturing him, Harper thought. Let it be a lesson; I shouldve done the interviews. Phone Mrs Brown and ask her when we can see her but dont mention the theft on the telephone; taking her by surprise might bring out the truth.

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Chapter eighteen

Susan was bringing up her two children almost as a single mother. Her husband was an HGV driver and was at home only for short periods of time. He was supposed to have a couple of days off a week but he did not adhere to the schedule; they needed the overtime. Harper didnt think that shed be mixed up in crime; why give the murderer the keys and then report her bag stolen? It didnt make sense. However, as far as he was concerned, everybodys looked upon as a suspect until the real culprits caught. Anyway, hed soon find out if she was hiding something. She showed them to the front part of the lounge, the sitting area. At the back of the lounge, there was a dining table and chairs. On the sideboard, the bric-a-brac, childrens photos and holiday souvenirs gave the room a homely feeling. Please sit down; would you like a drink? She was looking at them curiously, as if trying to guess the reason for their visit. She had told them everything about last Wednesday evening; there was nothing out of the ordinary anyway. Harper decided to accept the offer of a drink; a cup of tea would put them in a more relaxed mood. He answered for both of them: Thank you, Mrs Brown; wed like a cup of tea. He waited for Susan to sit down before he began to question her:

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Mrs Brown, Sergeant Norton asked you at the interview, if at any time you had lost your keys and you answered that you hadnt. Thats right Inspector. On Friday the 17 of October, at about nine forty-five in the evening, werent you robbed as you walked from Bethnal Green Underground Station to your house? Susan threw her glance form one to the other as if she wanted reassurance that she had not misheard. Neither Harper nor Norton said anything; she heard them and they neednt repeat the question. They saw when the expression on her face changed, from that of bafflement, to recollection. Harper detected a slight embarrassment in her voice when she said: Inspector, Im so sorry, I forgot about that. They were both silent and she continued: I didnt give it a second thought and the reason for that is, because, apart from the cash, the mugger didnt take anything else. He didnt take my credit cards or my mobile and I did not lose my keys. I didnt mean to obstruct your investigation, Inspector. Mrs Brown, Id like you to tell me exactly how it happened. Your recollection of the incident may help us catch the murderer. Can we sit down at the table? They sat at the dining table facing each other. Take your time, Mrs Brown. And itd be easier if you closed your eyes when youre trying to think. He spoke quietly and gently, as if talking to a child. He thought it would be better if he asked the questions:

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Youve come out of Harrington Lewis and locked the door. He asked: Can you see yourself walking? Yes. Im wearing jeans and my black anorak. Im walking towards Holborn Underground Station. I know theres someone behind me but Im not worried. There are plenty of people walking about. Now, Im on the platform and Im waiting for the train. Ive been waiting for about three or four minutes. Now, Im stepping inside the train and Im sitting down. I dont look at who comes in or whos sitting opposite. Im reading my magazine. Now tell me what happens when you come out of the station. I turn off the main road. Theres no one around and the back roads are badly lit. My shoulder bag is hanging on my left shoulder. Suddenly, someone stops behind me and puts a gloved hand on my mouth. I can feel his longish hair touching my face. He rips my handbag off my shoulder, and runs. Can you see him now? Yes. I can make out his shape; hes quite tall and large. She opened her eyes and said: It happened so quickly I didnt have the chance to shout for help. What did you do? Harper asked her. There was no one around. I thought it was best to go to the Police Station and I did. They gave me a lift home, told me not to be too optimistic about finding my handbag, and advised me to cancel my credit cards. As for the keys I was going to report them stolen the next day. And did you? Well, no. I was going to do that in the morning, but at about ten-thirty the police phoned to tell me that my handbag was handed in by a member of the public

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who found it on a part of the pavement, where people were likely to see it. So, Inspector, it seems to me that all he wanted was the money and was considerate enough to return the bag with everything in it; my mobile and all my credit cards, the keys and my travel card. I didnt mention it to Mrs Abbott because I soon forgot all about it. The officer said I was lucky.

Do you believe her, sir? Norton asked on their way back to the Station. I get the feeling shes telling the truth. The thief probably went to a twentyfour hour locksmith to get keys cut and then dropped the bag to be found quickly before she reported the theft to Mrs Abbott. But how did he know that she worked until nine every day? The murderer had inside information on the running of the practice. The same informant mustve told him about the bookends. So this murder was planned quite ahead of time. Thats right, Chris; whats more, whoever planned Carlisles murder wasnt stupid. What makes it more difficult is the fact that none of the people weve spoken to so far are stupid. Norton interrupted: Except Weston, sir. Harper winced at the mention of Westons name: Her reckless behaviour cost Carlisle his life and hers. What we have to decide now is who is the cleverest of all? What do you think, Chris? I think Weinberg, sir. You said yourself that he isnt stupid. I meant he isnt stupid in the sense that he would commit murder. On the other hand, is Weinberg clever enough to be an accessory to murder and get away with it? No one can get away with murder, sir.

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No one should get away with murder, Chris. We know that theres more than one person involved in Carlisles murder; the stupid one who struck the blows and locked the front door, and the devious one who gave the orders. We still dont know the motive; and because of that, we dont know what kind of villains were dealing with. Anyway, our job is to make sure neither gets away with it. What happens now, sir? We must look into Duffys and Cliffords criminal doings to find out if this incriminating information was the motive for Carlisles murder. However, whatever Lucy saw, and no matter what we uncover about Duffy and Clifford, its no good to us unless we can get forensic evidence. Forensics found nothing. No fingerprints or DNA other than of those who work there and of others who couldnt possibly have anything to do with the murder. Whats more, sir, Duffy and Clifford may have an alibi. The murder was premeditated, Chris; the murderer would have an alibi. It was nearly six oclock when Norton phoned Chez Marcos: The waiters who were at the restaurant on Wednesday wont be there again until Tuesday, sir. They cant help us today. Lets go home, then; we both need a rest. Any plans for Sunday? Its football tomorrow, sir; were playing the City. Really? How brave of the Metropolitan Police to play the City! Well beat them, sir; youll see. Harper looked forward to a Sunday of reflection and relaxation. He would sit in his comfortable wing chair by the fireplace, close his eyes and contemplate the events of the last few days. He would concentrate until he had some answers. He felt sure that tomorrow he would have some answers.

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Chapter nineteen

Duffy fits the profile of the evil and despicable individual whom someone brought to Carlisle said Harper. Exactly how Caroline Moore described him. It was Monday morning and he was sitting in the canteen at the Station with Norton for their obligatory cup of coffee. He hoped that today would be the turning point in the investigation. How do you know he fits that profile, sir? Instinct, Chris, together with deep thinking as in meditation. Did you also meditate about the motive, sir? The motive would be a strong one; the murderer didnt meet him in a dark alley, or in a dubious neighbourhood, or in a pub full of drunks, or in a strip club, or in the company of criminals; the murderer sought him out at his place of work; he needed keys to get in. He couldve been seen and caught but he took a chance because it was important to him that Carlisle died. What did Carlisle know that his murderer didnt want him to know? That he was a criminal, just like Duffy seems to be. We also suspect that Barker and Clifford may be the same person, sir. Im quite sure theyre the same person, Chris; well have to prove it, though. What we also know for sure now is that the murderer made copies of Mrs Browns keys on the night of the 17 of October when he robbed her. We know that Barker is an

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accessory to Carlisles murder, and we suspect that hes also an accessory to Westons murder. We also suspect that Lucy probably saw the murderer. And were about to confirm my instinct; that Duffy fits the profile of that murderer.

Stanley Duffys office was on the first floor of a modern block in Euston, and from that address he ran a series of business activities, including the real estate dealings, under the name Duffy Enterprises. Money4youLtd was a separate entity. I suspect Duffy runs illegal businesses under a maze of legitimate companies, Chris. But lets not worry about that now; lets hope he doesnt have a plausible alibi for Guy Fawkes Night. Better not reveal our identities until were inside his office sir, in case we raise his suspicions and he runs away through a back exit. The name of the company Money4youLtd was on the door, and Norton pressed the bell and waited. A woman answered, and he gave his name saying that he came to make an appointment to speak with Mr Duffy about a loan. With the sound of the buzzer he pushed the door and they went inside. In a small office, a young woman was sitting in front of a computer, and Harper held out his warrant card. Immediately, as if being confronted by the police was an everyday occurrence, she rang through to Duffys office and told them to go in. When they walked into his office, they were dazzled by the quantity of chrome on the furniture. The desk and chairs were edged in chrome and so were the various cabinets. Even the prints on the wall, depicting women at various stages of nudity and motor cars, had chrome frames. Duffy bore a good likeness to his photograph. When Harper saw him, he remembered Mrs Browns description of the man who robbed her: His longish hair touched her face and she made out his shape as he was running;

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he was quite tall and large. Duffy was sitting, or somewhat reclining in a chrome and leather armchair, and was resting his feet on the desk. His hair was longish and fell around his forehead and his ears. His wrestlers arms were bursting out of his shirt sleeves. His neck was short and bull-like and he had a cigar between his teeth. In this reclining position, his beer belly stomach was in full view and his stout body appeared bloated. He looked vile. It would be an injustice, Harper thought, if the life of a righteous man ended by the hand of this evil-looking thug. He didnt move when they went in. Harper stared at him, trying to identify what type of brain deficiency would best describe him. He formed the opinion that Duffy wouldnt know how to talk to the police if only to disperse any suspicions they held against him; he needed Clifford to advise him on what to say and do. He looked just like the kind of person a manipulative and astute man could easily order about. Duffys expression and behaviour was that of a stupid man. Mr Duffy? What d you want? Im Detective Inspector Harper of the Metropolitan Police and this is Detective Sergeant Norton. Wed like to ask you a few questions Im busy. How long will it take? As long as it would take you to tell us where you were last Wednesday evening between eight and eight-thirty. Why d you want to know? Were investigating the murder of a barrister, Hugh Carlisle. I understand that he was going to be the prosecuting counsel in a case in which youre being sued; is that right Mr Duffy? So?

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Were asking everyone who had any connection with the victim to tell us their whereabouts so that we can eliminate them from our enquiries. And if I dont? Mr Duffy, can you tell us where you were or shall we take you to the Station for questioning? I was at a fireworks party. Where? It was a private party. The name and address of the occupier? Twenty-three Tavistock Vale and I am the owner. I see. Could you give us the names and addresses of the guests? They all live nearby, in the Shelter in Tavistock Vale. Just go in, ask if anyone saw Stanley Duffy on Wednesday evening last week and youll find that they all remember me, Inspector. Ask them if I was there all evening and theyll tell you that I was. He added, with his voice full of malice: And ask them if they had enough to eat and drink. Well, I dare say they had more than enough. They could just about lift themselves up from the floor. Harper was looking at him incredulously. Thats right, Inspector, it was charity. I am a charitable man. I feel for those poor kids so I thought lets do something to give them joy. So I bought them fireworks; they were quite spectacular; they wouldnt have seen any like them. I also bought them food and beer to eat and drink until they dropped on the floor snoring. I must say Mr Duffy you dont strike me like a charitable man. Id go as far as to say, that to me, you appear to be the opposite; hard-hearted and unfeeling. Now, why do you think I get that impression about you, Mr Duffy?

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Youre no judge of character, Inspector. He continued to sit back in his chair with his feet on the desk and with his fingers slipping through his longish, unwashed hair, eyeing them mockingly. Why did you set about to put Marinos Bakery out of business? Its got nothing to do with you. Youre well aware that Carlisle wouldve proved that though not illegal, the contract was unethical and you wouldve lost the case. Duffy didnt answer. He probably needed Clifford to explain to him the meaning of the words illegal and unethical. Can you tell us where we can find Roy Clifford? Roy Clifford doesnt work in this office. But surely you know where we can find him? Ive no idea. Are you saying that Clifford gets you to do all the dirty work, while he disappears to enjoy a quiet life? Hes my accountant and a director of this company but he doesnt run it. Will this be all, Inspector? Are you saying that the dishonest methods youve devised to get your hands on real estate up and down the country are solely the result of your genius? I find it hard to believe that a man of your calibre could be endowed with such wisdom. Harper saw that Duffy wasnt going to say another word. Itll be all for now. But dont get too relaxed Mr Duffy. Somehow I have this inkling that were going to see each other again. Outside Duffys office Harper took in a few deep breaths to calm down. Then, he gave instructions to Norton:

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Get on to the Station, Chris, and arrange for undercover officers to start tailing Duffy as soon as possible. And circulate his photograph in all Police Stations, airports, seaports and Eurostar. I have a feeling hell try to disappear. He took in a few more deep breaths and then he said: It was Cliffords idea to bring the youngsters in and get them drunk, in case the police asked him for an alibi. Well, they would provide him with an alibi, wouldnt they? But lets not worry, Chris; Justice will prevail.

It was early afternoon when they arrived at the Shelter for Homeless Youths but none of the residents were in. The supervisor Tom Lawton explained: They have to have a good reason to stay in, Inspector. They all take part in training schemes or studying for NVQs. Of course, we cant keep an eye as to where they go when theyre not here, but on the whole were pleased with their attitude. Here, theyre well looked after and they dont want to leave this Shelter. They know that if they misbehave theyll be out, not necessarily in the street; theyll be sent in a not so comfy Shelter, and they know from experience what some of those are like. Lawton approved of the fireworks party. They told me they had a super time, Inspector. I was glad someone spent all that money so they could have some fun. Mr Lawton, the man who spent all that money is helping us with our enquiries in connection with the barristers Hugh Carlisles murder on Wednesday evening last week. If any of these young people can remember if their benefactor left twenty-three Tavistock Vale during the evening, wed like to know. What time do you lock up? We shut the doors at eleven and those who dont look forward to the prospect of spending the night on the pavement are back by then. Actually, all of them have

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been getting back on time. This is because the council supplies the Shelter with computers. And there are no rigid restrictions as to what time they should go to bed. What time can we find them all in? After ten; no one is usually here early unless theres a football match on TV. As it happens a local team are playing at home this evening. The kick off is at seventhirty. Mr Lawton, it is important they cooperate. Do you think you could prepare them for our visit? Ill talk to them. He laughed. Try bribing them with a drink.

Times running out, Chris Harper said when they came out of the Shelter. Do you think Duffy is waiting for instructions to commit another murder? Clifford wouldnt hesitate to have someone murdered to serve his purpose. Ive no doubt that he could easily persuade a stupid man like Duffy to kill again. Clifford is probably trying to defraud another business in hardship, sir. We mustnt lose our optimism, Chris; time is running out. The situation seems hopeless but we must go back to the Shelter later. Even if it proves to be a waste of time, at least we wouldve tried. Were tired, and as you know, tiredness can cause us to lapse our procedures.

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Chapter twenty

Do you think the youngsters in the Shelter for Homeless Youths would be willing to assist the Police with their enquiries, sir? Norton asked. I doubt it; Duffy indulged them; he spent a fortune on the most spectacular fireworks for their entertainment, and gave them food and drink like no one has ever done before. Hes their benefactor; why betray him? Well go and talk to them on the chance that there might be among them some who would speak the truth more out of naivety, than for doing their duty as law abiding citizens. Harper decided to see them before the game kicked off at seven-thirty. On their way, they stopped at the local convenience store and bought a can of fizzy drink for each and as many packets of crisps. When they arrived at the Shelter shortly before seven-thirty, Lawton showed them in his office, which had just enough room for an extra chair. Guessing Harpers thoughts, he explained: I dont mind the smallness of my office, Inspector; I care about these youngsters. Id rather they had enough room to sleep and socialize. I want them to feel secure and as happy as they could feel away from a family home. They stood in the doorway of the lounge watching them with concern. They were aged between sixteen and twenty-one and came from broken homes. Broken homes, Inspector, means that their father is in prison and their mother has a partner with a violent temper; so they ran away from home. said Lawton. Here,

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theyre well looked after. Whats more, no one shouts at them, no one takes their anger out on them as it was usually the case in their family home. This is now their home, and after some years when theyve developed a little common sense, theyll have to move on. Some wouldve trained in a skill or studied for NVQs, but there are a few who lack the discipline to learn; I dont know what becomes of them when they leave. They looked just like all teenagers; loud, untidy, and carefree. Some had slashed their blue jeans on purpose. They looked the way they looked because they chose to, not because they were forced to. Harper had no doubt that theyd rather be in the Shelter than in their family home. He tried to think of a plan on how to approach the subject. Should he mention that Duffy was helping them with their enquiries in connection with a murder? Two murders? And an attempted murder? Did they care that a lawyer was murdered? He decided to play it by ear. He would let their response be a guide to his questioning. The youths seemed to be in high spirits; very excited at the prospect of watching their local team play at home. The game was about to start and Harper moved in the middle of the room with Norton; he decided to be frank with them: Were police officers and this is a bribe he said. Were bribing you for information. They laughed and put their hand out for the drinks. Im Detective Inspector Harper and this is Detective Sergeant Norton. If you pay attention, this wont take long. Im sure you dont want to miss the game, so listen. Last Wednesday, on Guy Fawkes Night, do you remember if your host Stanley Duffy at twenty-three Tavistock Vale was out of the house at all during the evening

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but especially between eight and eight-thirty? And please give me your name when you speak. No one answered. I presume youre all sixteen Harper continued therefore I can talk to you as adults. If any of you isnt sixteen leave the room now. No one moved. Harper pretended he didnt know they werent juvenile; he hoped to appeal to their sense of pride. Even if they were, they wouldnt confess to it. Theyd much rather be questioned by the police than admit to being under age. Their team was marching on the football pitch and they clapped and whistled, taking no notice of what Harper was saying; they stretched their heads to see what was on the screen behind him. Norton whispered: Shall we move out of the way, sir? No. Eventually, someone who cant see the screen will say something. Harper was right. A young man stood up: My name is Pete. Why do you want to know? Whats he done? Hes helping us with our enquiries in connection with the attempted murder of an eighteen-year old girl. He drove his car up to her and knocked her off her bicycle. He left her for dead and drove off. He whispered to Norton: A white lie, Chris. No harm done, sir. The noise died out. Harper sensed their concern. Is she going to die? asked Pete. Shes now out of danger. We think he tried to kill her because she saw something he didnt want her to see. Thats why we must know where he was. One of the older boys spoke:

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My name is Joss. I didnt take much notice of what was going on. That was a sly trick he played on us; he used us for his alibi. Did any of you see Duffy leave the house? The game was about to start. They shook their head in a negative response. Harper wasnt giving up just yet. Did you notice if anyone apart from him came to the house? A friend of his, perhaps? Was anyone helping him with the food and the drinks? A young man sitting in the front stretched his head to see what was on the screen behind Harper. He said: My name is Rob. Ask the woman next door at number twenty-five. She came in to complain about the noise. She brought the police round. The game had started and he didnt hope to get any more information out of them. But hed heard enough. He congratulated himself for taking the decision to visit the Shelter. Is that what youd call a stroke of luck, Inspector? I hope you get the information you want. They thanked Lawton and went to knock on the door at twenty-five Tavistock Vale.

The chain was on the door. An elderly woman opened it slightly and looked closely at Harpers warrant card. She still hesitated to open the door. May we talk to you for a moment Mrs? Edith Hawkins. What do you want to talk to me about, Inspector? About last Wednesday evening, Guy Fawkes Night. Did you complain to the police about the noise next door? Mrs Hawkins opened the door wide now to let them in.

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I called the police because the noise was unbearable, Inspector. They showed no consideration for people who want some peace in the evening. I didnt mind the fireworks; it was the screaming, the swearing and the fighting. They drank so much they started hitting each other. Do you know the owner of the house? Yes, I know his face. He comes here very occasionally. Apart from last Wednesday, oh and Thursday, he hadnt been for a while. Last Wednesday, did you happen to notice if he was out of the house at any time during the evening, but especially between eight and eight-thirty? The youngsters came at about seven and he was probably there to let them in but I didnt see him. A few of the boys went out in the back to get the fireworks ready. I realized that I was in for a stressful evening, and I listened in the hope that hed try and control them a little. Someone drove off just before seven-thirty, and though I didnt see who it was, Im sure it was him because just after eight-thirty I saw the same car again. It was him unloading cases of drinks from the boot and bringing them to the house. So he was out for more than an hour, Inspector. The noise didnt stop, and I phoned the police at half-past nine. It was nearly eleven before they came. Thank you for talking to us Mrs Hawkins. The information you gave us will help us with our enquiries. Even though he said so, he didnt think that Mrs Hawkinss evidence would be convincing in a court of law. Mrs Hawkins saw him come back just after eight-thirty said Harper. Im sure he was coming from Grays Square. He didnt have to stop to buy the drinks; he had them in the car already. If we charged him on this evidence, it would take a lot of

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persuasion to convince a jury that he committed the murder. We could go back and insist he told us where he was coming from just after eight-thirty. Hed have to tell us where he bought the drinks, but even if he kept the receipt he wouldnt show it to us and theres nothing we can do about it. Mrs Hawkins confirmed that he was out for more than an hour, sir. Thats right. Duffy wasnt where he said he was. He has no alibi. All we need now Chris, is the forensic evidence to charge him with Carlisles murder. Then he added regretfully: We just havent the evidence, Chris. Norton put forward the same suggestion: He has no alibi, sir. Surely, Chris, we can bring him in and charge him. Mrs Hawkins is a reliable witness as far as Im concerned. The defence counsel however, could persuade the jury that her evidence is not beyond reasonable doubt. It was dark; how could she be absolutely sure that the man she saw was Duffy? Maybe we can have a word with the constable who came to the house. Yes, lets do that tomorrow. Right now, Harper had that feeling which he called intuition and which was telling him that he was close to making an arrest. But would he have the forensic evidence to press charges? And would he find out why a good man like Hugh Carlisle was murdered? He admitted that he wanted the murderer caught not only because he would be doing his job as a policeman; he saw it as a tribute to Carlisles memory. He said with conviction, and not just to put Nortons mind at rest: If Duffy is the murderer Chris, we will get the evidence. Remember, Duffy is a stupid man.

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Chapter twenty-one

On Tuesday morning Harper got up at five. He took his rug and went downstairs in the sitting room in case he woke Rita. Somehow today, he felt that he ought to be out and about. Was it a premonition that he had to be ready early? The situation was pressing; the undercover officers failed to follow Duffy; he went into hiding as soon as he and Chris left his office on Monday. Theres no doubt hes guilty, Harper thought; going into hiding must surely be a sign of his guilt? While he was in the shower he kept thinking of the many unsolved cases in their files. They were classified unsolved because there was no forensic evidence to bring charges against the persons who they suspected had committed the crimes. In this case also, all the evidence was circumstantial, but Harper did not believe it was a coincidence that Duffy fitted the profile of the murderer. He was barely out of the shower when the phone rang; Norton sounded jubilant: Message from the WPC at the hospital, sir he said. We can talk to Miss Andrews today. Harper was out of the house in seconds. Outside Lucys ward, the WPC smiled happily: Shes made a complete recovery, sir. The doctor said to go right in. Jean Andrews was inside the ward looking less weary than last time.

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Inspector, my daughter will live and you must arrest whoever did this or neither she nor I will ever be able to walk without fear for our lives. Were doing everything we can, Mrs Andrews; but please wait outside. We must talk to Lucy in private. Harper shut the door; he brought the chair near the top of the bed and sat close to Lucy. She averted her eyes and he had the feeling that she was afraid to talk to him. Lucy, Im sorry for your accident and for the pain you suffered. I promise well get whoever did this to you. But I need your help. Im going to ask you a few questions and you must tell me the truth. You want us to arrest Mr Carlisles murderer, dont you? She nodded without looking at Harper. Then please try and answer my questions as best as you can. Tell me what happened on Wednesday evening. I went shopping with friends in Oxford Street. I dont take my bike when I go shopping; I usually leave it chained in the Square. I had left my crash helmet in my desk drawer. What time did you get back? It was late; when I got to the Square I looked at my watch and I saw that it was gone eight oclock. My mum expected me to be back earlier so I had to hurry. I stopped outside the front door to phone her. I told her that I was on my way and asked her not to wait for me. Id go to my aunts for the fireworks later, with my boyfriend. She stopped talking for a few seconds. Harper tried not to show impatience while he encouraged her to continue: Now tell me what you saw, Lucy he said.

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I saw from the Square that the light was on in the room on the first floor, Mr Carlisles room. I unlocked the front door and went to my desk to take my helmet. As I turned to go, I saw Mr Carlisle walk up the stairs going possibly to the mens washroom on the third floor. I called out goodnight but he didnt answer. Maybe he didnt hear me because he didnt even turn round. I was in a hurry so I left. Next morning when I went in and Margaret told me that he was dead I thought I was probably the last person to see him alive, and I was afraid you might think that I had something to do with his death; thats why I didnt tell you the truth. I know you had nothing to do with his death, Lucy. I just want to clarify a few points and then well leave you alone. When they finished talking to her, Harper said quietly: You must promise me Lucy that youre not going to say anything of what you told me to anyone, not until we catch the murderer. Harper asked for secrecy from those involved in Lucys care. They must tell no one that Lucy had recovered. Visitors wouldnt be allowed for the time being. Talking to Lucy put a smile on Harpers face. Now at last, the tension eased; they were getting somewhere. Maybe now, they could stop the murderer. How many more deaths would there be if he wasnt stopped? Chris, I think its time we paid Miss Olivia Wilmot a visit.

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Chapter twenty-two

At one oclock on Wednesday, Olivia Wilmot came out of Harrington Lewis to go to the Bailey where she was due at two oclock. She was planning to take a taxi as she always did, but the traffic was heavy so she walked to Holborn Underground Station carrying her barristers bag with her gown and wig in her right hand, and her briefcase with her notes in her left. She was thinking about her case this afternoon, and wondered what chance the defence counsel had of convincing the jury that the defendant did not mean to inflict grievous bodily harm on his victim. As a criminal lawyer with experience in cases of GBH she was confident that both the jury and judge would agree with her, and bring in a guilty verdict. She had forgotten her Oyster travel card at home and the queue at the ticket office was long, so she went to the machine on the wall. She put the bag with her garments on the floor next to her, and looked for her purse in her briefcase. She read the table for the fare to her destination, inserted the coins and collected her ticket. She bent down to pick up her bag but it was gone. She took out her mobile and after a short conversation she went back to Harrington Lewis, walked into the boardroom, and closed the door. A few minutes later Sergeant Norton went in. Well, Sergeant, how did I do? Olivia asked him with a teasing smile. Will I qualify as an undercover officer with the Metropolitan Police?

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You did very well and thank you for your co-operation, Miss Wilmot. The man who snatched your bag was Duffy. He went into hiding after we spoke to him on Monday but now, thanks to you, hes in custody. He knew that you were due in court today; Catherine Weston told Clifford, his business partner, who, we suspect used the alias Barker when he took her to dinner. Duffy had to get hold of your gown and wig because they contain the forensic evidence that will lead to his conviction. Im glad you found evidence in my gown and wig to charge this evil man. Im afraid we shall have to keep your garments for a while. Thats alright Sergeant. Any excuse for not wearing that hideous uniform. But youll get them back eventually. At that moment Harper walked in: Miss Wilmot, thank you for your cooperation. Well make sure your garments are returned to you as soon as possible. He turned to Norton: Sergeant, we have a murderer to interview. My fault Inspector. Blame me for keeping your Sergeant here. Well be in touch Miss Wilmot.

Well, Chris? Harper asked when they were outside. Well what, sir? Sergeant, Miss Wilmot is a first-rate barrister. Youre a policeman. Would a woman like her be your type? Yes, I think she would, sir. Thats good; it looks like youre her type. Forensics werent very thorough in their search, sir. How come they missed the garments last Thursday when they went over the building with a tooth comb?

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Thats just it, Chris; obviously they didnt go over the building with a tooth comb. You told me that you asked forensics if Miss Wilmot could take her garments home for dry cleaning and they agreed. Thats right, sir. They said they had finished with her room. There will be an enquiry to find out exactly who said that and why; lets be thankful that Miss Wilmot hadnt got round to taking her garments to the cleaners. By the time they arrived at the Station, the undercover officers had charged Duffy with the theft of a bag; the CCTV tape showed him taking it. From the photographs the officers took, sir, it looks like he was stalking Miss Wilmot from the moment she left Harrington Lewis. Even with the scarf wrapped around his neck that covered half of his face, and the brim of his hat that came down to his eyes, you couldnt mistake him for the hugeness of his body. While Harper contemplated a course of action Norton became impatient: When are we going to charge him with the murders, sir? Presently; well charge Duffy with the murders and with Lucys attempted murder. But would he tell us what the motive was? On the other hand, if Duffy is a hired killer would he know what the motive was? If thats the case, what chance do we have of catching the real culprits? Patience, Chris; hell soon ask for his lawyer. They watched Duffy from behind the screen. He sat and put his feet on the table as was his habit of doing in his office, but they didnt stop him. He paced up and down the room and then sat down again, banging on the table with his fists. Then, he walked to the door and shouted that he wanted to phone his lawyer. He asked to make the call himself and Harper agreed. When the conversation was over, Duffy banged the phone and swore; obviously, his lawyer wasnt available.

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The telephonist traced the number to Harrington Lewis. Harper wasnt surprised; he phoned Margaret and gave her the time the call was made and the duration of the call. A call was made at that time, Inspector, but the caller didnt give his name. Who did the caller ask to speak to? Harper asked her. He asked to speak to Mr Harrington. Harper managed to stop himself from expressing his surprise. He asked Margaret to elaborate in the information she gave him. Mr Harrington told me to ask the name of the man, and when I told him that the man refused to give it he said not to put him through. He also told me to say that he was unavailable, and that he wouldnt be in the office for the rest of the day. Immediately afterwards, Mr Harrington left to see a client; so he said. Was it a prearranged appointment? Harper asked. Not as far as I know. So, twenty-five years later, Harrington found a way to get rid of Carlisle. Asking him to leave the practice was not an option; the partners wouldnt stand for it. Plotting his murder was the only option. But why now? Harrington was planning to retire, he said so himself. On the other hand, what other reason could Harrington have to want Carlisle dead? Harper was unconvinced about Harringtons guilt and decided to leave it at that for the time being. The truth will prevail in due course. If Duffy knows anything, hell talk; hired killers dont swear allegiance to their partners in crime. What now, sir? Norton asked.

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Well read him his rights and charge him. Arrange for the duty lawyer as soon as possible. Even if Duffy doesnt tell us anything, at least now we know where this investigation is leading us. I wouldve never believed it sir, that Harrington might be involved. I cannot think why he might be involved. You saw him talk to Lucy; he told her not to worry, and everything will be alright. We thought he wanted to comfort her but it was a devious move on his part because he stopped her from coming back to us to tell us the truth. Mark saw him get in a taxi with a man; was it Clifford alias Barker? Now, its Duffy who wants to talk to him. He may have a reasonable explanation as to why Duffy wants to talk to him, but we need to know what it is. Maybe Harrington acted for his real estate business. Id like to think so, but it looks more likely that Harringtons involvement is deeper than that. Why didnt he want to speak to Duffy? Mark said that Harrington has power and could get away with anything. Harper was non-committal: Well do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice. He was thinking of asking Hawthorne for a thorough profile on Harrington when the reception rang to tell him that a man with information on Carlisles murder was waiting to talk to him. Did he give you his name? Harper asked. Yes, sir. His name is David Evans and hes the editor of The Establishment, an English language newspaper in Amsterdam. He came to London on Eurostar earlier and wants to see you now, as he will be going back early tomorrow morning.

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Chapter twenty-three

Harper tried not to build up his hopes every time members of the public came forward with information; sometimes, what they revealed was of no significance to the investigation; in addition, they wasted police time. In this case also, he wasnt feeling too hopeful about the news Evans was bringing him. This man came forward probably because, just like Miss Moore and all of Carlisles friends and acquaintances, cared for him and was saddened by his death; he wanted to express his remorse or relate a suspicious incident that might have a bearing on the case. Evans was smartly dressed in a casual jacket and black trousers. He looked about forty, and had a slightly receding hairline and the hint of a bulge around his midriff; no doubt the result of years of sitting at a desk and of snack meals. It was my duty to come as soon as I could, Inspector. I find it hard to believe that Hugh Carlisle was murdered. I hope my information will help you catch the murderer. How did you know Hugh Carlisle, Mr Evans? I first interviewed him about ten years ago when he gave a lecture at the Law College. It was a remarkable speech; many of those present thought so. I kept in touch, usually by e-mail; I sent him news of legal issues in Holland and he supplied me with inside information on what was happening in legal circles in Britain before the rest of the media got hold of it.

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When was the last time you were in touch with him? I sent him an e-mail on Monday the 3 of November and before that on the 10 of October. Both e-mails had attachments. I brought them to show you, together with the newspaper cuttings. Evans had stapled the cuttings at the back of the copied e-mails. He passed them to Harper who read them out loud. He read the one dated the 10 of October first. Evans had translated from the Dutch: Police questioned three British nationals, Stanley Duffy, a property developer, and Roy Clifford, an accountant, co-owners of the casino The Joker in Amsterdam, and the manager of the casino Louis Spinoza. A fourth British national, Robert Harrington, a lawyer who acted as counsel for the above, was also questioned. The police were satisfied that Spinoza with Duffy and Clifford did not run the casino illicitly; they complied with the laws and regulations of the country. The police did not pursue the matter. The newspaper cutting was a photograph showing Harrington with two men one of whom was Duffy. He then read the e-mail dated Monday the 3 of November, at 3 pm, local time: Whats going on with your colleague, Hugh? First the Dutch police question him and his clients, and now hes socializing with Vincent van Bodden? Do me a favour and find out. I need material to boost my newspapers sales. A scandal will do just fine. The newspaper cutting was also a photograph showing Harrington and another man whom Harper did not recognise. The revelation that Duffy and Clifford ran a casino in Amsterdam did not surprise Harper. He was surprised at Harringtons involvement. He had been waiting

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for a sign to implicate Weinberg in Carlisles murder and at first he doubted what he read. He did not take in the importance of the second e-mail; the word scandal did not register in his mind. Soon though, his thoughts came back to the present and he questioned Evans: What do you know about Duffy and Clifford, Mr Evans? Theyre truly devious characters, Inspector. About four years ago they run a Joker in London and for some reason which wasnt obvious to me at the time, they decided to close it down and reopen in Amsterdam. The reason they closed it down was because they needed a casino in Amsterdam and they wanted Louis Spinoza to run it. Running a casino abroad doesnt make them criminals. They wanted someone they trusted; Spinoza couldnt be in two places at the same time. If there was only one person in the whole world they trusted, that person was Louis Spinoza. Harper was well aware of Amsterdams association with illegal trading, from where all sorts of dealings sprung and spread all over the world. Harrington however, wouldnt stoop so low as to get involved in the trafficking of anything. Harper saw it in his character. But what if he was wrong? Why was he involved in a casino in Amsterdam if it wasnt set up for the purpose of legitimate gambling? Why did he keep company with them? Perhaps because Duffy and Clifford were his clients and he had overseen legal matters regarding the setting up of the casino. If that was the case, then whatever those two were involved in had nothing to do with Harrington; he had probably no idea of what was going on. Seeing that Harper wasnt going to comment, Evans continued:

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Inspector, the kind of business they run from The Joker was, I would say, undercover, or more to the point, illegal. You have to think of the reason why they chose Amsterdam to reopen; why not Paris, or Rome, or Madrid? Harper didnt answer. There must be only one reason, he thought; are they involved in illegal trading? Inspector, my suspicions were confirmed recently, when I saw Vincent van Bodden and Robert Harrington together. Vincent van Bodden is based in Amsterdam. Harper had no idea what Evans was talking about. Who is Vincent van Bodden? asked Norton. Im about to tell you, Sergeant. Inspector, I assume from your silence that you dont know who Vincent van Bodden is. Vincent van Bodden is a diamond merchant and hes based in Amsterdam. He will sell rough diamonds to buyers who can provide references about their honesty and trustworthiness. Harper stared at Evans in disbelief; this was a bombshell. Surely, this kind of dealing wasnt Harringtons style? At last he spoke: Are you saying that they reopened in Amsterdam to buy rough diamonds with the purpose of smuggling them into Britain? I have no proof, Inspector, and I suppose neither do the Dutch police. I believe The Joker is a front. They need it as an excuse to go back and forth. They also need Spinoza in the casino to take care of things in their absence. Someone put them in touch with van Bodden and that someone I believe was Robert Harrington. He continued, seeing that Harper was speechless again. I also believe that van Bodden doesnt suspect that the diamonds come into Britain undeclared. He wouldnt risk his reputation.

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How much did Carlisle know? Harper asked. Only what I wrote in my last e-mail; I implied it was Harrington who put them in touch with van Bodden. Hugh knew that van Bodden is a diamond merchant. When was the first time you mentioned the Amsterdam Joker to Carlisle? About four years ago. I e-mailed him saying that Harrington was in Amsterdam and I sent him an attachment of a cutting from The Establishment where he was photographed standing outside the newly opened Joker. We expatriates try to get everywhere where we are likely to find material for gossip. That was purely for information; I wasnt suspicious then. I became suspicious recently, a few days before I e-mailed him on the 10 of October. Evans got up to go. The illegal diamond imports have been going on for about four years Inspector. Theres a hoard in a safe deposit box somewhere. Thank you for the information, Mr Evans. And you can be sure whoever killed Carlisle wont escape us. I hope you catch the murderer, Inspector. Hugh was a good and honest man.

This was a motive for murder. Harper was filled with awe as he thought of Cliffords shrewdness of mind; it takes an astute individual to organize the illegal import of diamonds. If there was ever a man who could set up a scheme to swindle and get away with it, then Clifford was that man. Where do we start, sir? Find out which police department in Amsterdam dealt with the questioning last month, explain the situation and ask them to find out Spinozas whereabouts last

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Wednesday. Next, ask them for information about Vincent van Bodden. Try googling his name while we are waiting. Harper picked up the photograph and got up: Im going to Chez Marcos. Tony, the waiter who served Barker and Weston, remembered them when Harper told him that the man left before he finished the meal. He confirmed that one of the three men in the photograph, Clifford, was the man who accompanied the woman. Inspector, he was a rich man; he was wearing a Savile Row and a Rolex and he gave me a fifty pound note for a tip. He took out his wallet. This is the note he gave me. Give me fifty pounds and you can have it. Thanks, Tony. Please phone the Station and make an appointment to have your fingerprints taken for elimination purposes. So, theres one person who knew all along about the incriminating information about Duffy and Clifford, their diamond smuggling, the Joker in Amsterdam, and the illicit business dealings of Money4youLtd. Harper kept turning the information in his mind but tried not to speculate about Harringtons involvement until he spoke to van Bodden. He suspected that Harrington had something to hide but he didnt for one moment think of him as someone who might be involved in smuggling.

Back at the Station he discussed with Norton a course of action: Chris, its confirmed; Barker is Clifford. Circulate his photograph same as Duffys and get in touch with Interpol. He could be anywhere by now, but hell have to show his face somewhere, sometime. How did you get on with the Dutch Police? They confirmed that Spinoza was in the casino at the time of the murder. Several witnesses verified it.

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What do they know about van Bodden? They said that Vincent van Bodden is coming by Eurostar tomorrow to see you, and asked me to confirm the time. Would nine am be convenient? Confirm the time and ask if he wants us to meet him at the terminal. Harrington has probably left his office, sir. Are we going to his house? No, well see him tomorrow, after we speak to van Bodden. Theres one thing I find puzzling, sir. Why did Carlisle go to see Harrington with the information he had come by, rather than go to Customs and Excise? He was a clever man. How come he didnt guess that Harrington might be mixed up in fraud? Carlisle was a man with no vices, and out of sheet naivety perhaps, or faith in others, believed that people are as honest as he was. Im beginning to see the flaw in his character; if indeed, we can call it a flaw. What do you mean, sir? That it was his own fault he got murdered? Im not saying that; not yet. First, Id like to know why Carlisle went to see Harrington on the 3 of November; did he suspect him of fraud? Vincent van Bodden will probably confirm what Evans told us, sir. If van Bodden confirms what Evans told us we shall need strong evidence to charge Harrington as an accessory to murder and fraud.

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Chapter twenty-four

Were not going to mention diamonds to Duffy, Chris, in case Clifford, whos the brains behind the operation, has kept the hiding place secret from him said Harper. Why would he have kept it secret, sir? Itd be easy for Clifford to convince a brainless buffoon like Duffy that it was in his interest not to know where he hid the diamonds. If thats the case, wed gain nothing by revealing what we know. Clifford has disappeared, so now, the only chance we have of finding the hiding place is, not to reveal what we know about the smuggling. Do you think Duffy realized we set up a trap to get him, sir? No; hes too stupid for that. Obviously, Clifford didnt warn him. When they went in the interview room, Duffy stood up, banged on the table, pointed a finger at Harper and said: Youll regret this Harper; Ill sue. Youve no evidence to charge me. Harper sat opposite Duffy and looked at him with contempt while Norton read him his rights; then he gloated: We found a DNA match, Duffy. Several hairs stuck in the wig. Your hair was coming out in handfuls when you put Miss Wilmots wig on. The DNA matches the one from the Isle of Man where they charged you years ago with GBH.

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He watched Duffy to see if what he told him registered in his mind; if he was really as dim as he looked it probably didnt. We know how you did it, Duffy Harper continued in a contemptuous tone, what we dont know is why. Just for the record Ill tell how I think you did it and then, you can tell me your story; and do feel free to interrupt. Harper could see that no degree of ridicule or contempt would stir anything in Duffy. He seemed insensitive to the point of frustration. We worked it out Duffy. You simply werent to know that one of the bicycles chained in the Square belonged to Miss Andrews. Youre too stupid to figure out that on Guy Fawkes Night there wouldve been several bicycles chained outside. Did Clifford forget to warn you? Duffy didnt answer. Harper didnt expect him to answer anyway, so he continued telling him what he believed happened: You went in as soon as Clifford sent you the text. The youngsters in the square were drunk and didnt take any notice when someone went in a building or came out. You climbed the stairs and left a firework on the floor outside his room. You went inside his room and waited behind the door holding the marble statuette. He stopped talking for a few moments to give Duffy a chance to confirm or deny the accusations. There was no response so he continued: Correct me if Im wrong. Carlisle stooped to see what was on the floor and you had your chance to strike. You killed him with the first blow, but you hit him again to make sure there was no breath left in him and then, still holding the statuette, you went in Miss Wilmots room and looked out of the window to see if it was safe to leave. You couldnt look out of the window in Carlisles room; his light was on. You couldve switched it off, but what if anyone watching knew Carlisle, and expected

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him to come out? But thats not how your mind works; its more likely that you didnt think of switching the light off. Are you really that stupid Duffy? Anyway, while looking out of Miss Wilmots window you saw Miss Andrews go to the front door. Well Duffy, would you like to tell us what happened next, or are you quite happy for me to tell the story? Harper stopped talking again and looked at Duffy for any signs of remorse but he was quite expressionless; he continued: You panicked; suppose Miss Andrews came up to see Carlisle in his room? But you neednt have worried. Luckily for her she was in a hurry and didnt walk towards the stairs to investigate. She wouldve seen the body and you wouldve killed her, too. You hid the statuette under the wardrobe, opened it and put the garments on; you started to walk up the stairs, possibly one would think, on the way to the washroom. Surprisingly, that was quick thinking on your part, pretending to be Carlisle, and thats exactly what Miss Andrews thought. She thought you were Carlisle and she called out goodnight. She did notice however, that the gown barely covered your back, but she didnt give it a second thought at the time. As for the wig, you pulled it down so tight to make sure it stayed on, that the hairs from your head stuck in it in tufts. After she left, you were probably still panicky in case someone else came in, and you replaced the garments in the wardrobe without thinking of the forensic evidence they may contain. Harper revelled in his triumph now, this was truly revenge: How could you be sure Duffy that what Miss Wilmot was carrying in her bag today, were the garments you had worn to disguise yourself after you killed Carlisle?

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Duffy now realized his stupidity and groaned with rage. Suddenly he jumped and leaned across the table ready to punch Harper. Norton and the Constable had anticipated the attack; they pulled him away from Harper and handcuffed him. Harper continued to gloat at Duffys hard luck: I presume theres nothing youd like to add, so I shall go on: You left, locking the door behind you and it mustve been later, much later after you spoke to Clifford, that the matter of forensics became apparent. It was Clifford who said there may be forensic evidence in the garments and you went back but it wasnt safe. The police were patrolling the Square in case the youngsters started to throw fireworks. Sadly for you, you had to abandon the idea of retrieving the garments. Your only alternative was to kill Miss Andrews before she told the police what she saw. It was unlucky for her that she didnt tell us immediately but shell survive. Harper could not resist mentioning the matter of the locking of the front door. This was sure to make Duffy cringe with rage: I tried to work out your reason for locking the front door. Were you still in a panic? Just imagine Duffy, if you had left the front door unlocked we wouldve probably thought that an intruder had gone in and killed Carlisle; who knows, we may not have looked any further. Was it Clifford who said to be sure you locked the door? Why do you think he wants you behind bars? This was too much for Duffy; he would hit someone if he could; he couldnt, so he kept banging on the table with his fist. Harper continued: Now, well talk about the second murder Duffy, so listen. You had to eliminate Miss Weston; she could identify Clifford. You both knew her address; you followed her to her house to find out what time she arrived and if she lived alone. Getting inside the front door needed some thinking, but Clifford sorted it for you. He

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told you that it was a question of speed; as soon as she opens the door, push it and step inside covering her mouth with your hand. Clifford is smart Duffy, he wasnt going to commit the murder; he left it to you. He knew you would trust him to do as he said; he knows how to make everyone who comes near him, trust him. Miss Weston trusted him and gave him all the information he asked for. And he passed it on to you to do the really dirty work. He also knows that when we catch up with him we can only charge him as an accessory to the murders. And you can be sure that sooner or later, we will catch up with him. He went near Duffy and threw a glance at his shoes: I bet you forgot to clean your shoes Duffy; the shoes you were wearing last Thursday evening when you went to Miss Westons house. Did you notice the newly laid tarmac? It was laid on that same day, and there were plenty of loose pieces of gravel and tar scattered on the road and on the pavement; it takes a while for all the bits to settle; we found some stuck on Miss Westons shoes. It stuck on our shoes too, and Im sure when we check yours were likely to find plenty. Didnt it cross your mind that well check your shoes? I bet Clifford wouldve thought of that. Duffy was no longer listening; he was humming and banging on the table. The CCTV camera recorded the accident when you knocked Miss Andrews off her bicycle. We cant see your face, and the number plate is false, but well find the car. Youll give us the addresses of all your properties Duffy and the keys to search them. Even if you refuse, well, well find them; we have our powers.

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Chapter twenty-five

Its another half an hour before van Bodden arrives, sir. Must we wait in the interview room? Shall we get some coffee in the canteen? Norton asked. Coffee isnt going to dispel my worries this morning, Chris said Harper. As a matter of fact, not even my usual twenty-minute yoga and meditation routine was enough to drive away my anxieties. Nevertheless, Im resolved to face whatever the day has in store for me. Why are you so anxious, sir? At last, were getting somewhere. Lets just say Im surprised at the speed with which events have unfolded. The murderer is in custody, although the masterminds are still at large. We know that the motive for the murders is large scale fraud. We have an accessory to those murders. The question now is, is there a second accessory? Vincent van Bodden arrived promptly at nine. Norton showed him in the interview room, and in the few moments which intervened between the introductions and the questioning, Harper noted his appearance and made a quick assessment of his character. Hed be about sixty-five; he had strong facial features and wavy grey hair; his figure was upright and wore a bespoke business suit; he looked distinguished. Why would this man lie, Harper thought; Evans said that van Bodden wouldnt risk his good name by selling to unscrupulous buyers; why would he come voluntarily to tell lies?

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Mr van Bodden, the police in Amsterdam told us that they briefed you on the case and that you didnt mind coming to London for the interview. It was not inconvenient, Inspector. It was the least I could do to help in the arrest and conviction of those who murdered two innocent people. I shall give you all the information I can give you. How do you know Robert Harrington, Mr van Bodden? I met him during the Maastricht negotiations. He came to Holland to look into the legal arguments of the treaty and we met at a dinner given by the Dutch Chamber of Commerce. In retrospect, I believe he told his clients that I dealt in rough diamonds long before the setting up of the casino. Did Harrington introduce you to Duffy and Clifford? Yes. He invited me to the opening of the casino. I chatted to them saying possibly more than I should have said, and Clifford showed an interest in buying a couple of stones to import and resell in Britain. I explained the importance of documentation and told him that if all was in order I would certainly sell to them. He had brought a manila file and gave it to Harper. He supplied all the necessary documents. I brought them to show you, Inspector. Everything was in order. I informed Robert that I would be doing business with them, and asked him to give me character references in writing. He did, and so we started trading. If I suspected that they were untrustworthy I would have never supplied them with the merchandise. Would you say that Harrington knew what they were up to? Not at first. A person may start doing business in good faith and with honesty, but money has a strange effect; greed takes over. When the police came to see me yesterday, they told me they suspect that Duffy and Clifford smuggle the diamonds

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into Britain but they had no evidence so they could not pursue the matter further. I do not know if Robert was aware of it. I believe that he was not at first; however there is the matter of commission. He earns a tidy sum each time a transaction takes place, and running the danger of losing it could have prompted him to pretend that he did not see what was going on. I am only supposing Inspector. Tell me about the commissions. Who pays commission to whom? Robert gets commission from the seller, who is I, and from the buyers. The amount depends on the transaction but the total is twenty per cent shared. The last transaction took place around the 30 of October and we paid the commission directly into his Swiss Bank account. What would you say of Harrington now? Hes withholding information. If I were you, I would not trust him. We believe that the woman who was murdered last Thursday evening could identify Clifford as the man who used the name Barker and took her to dinner to get information which he passed on to the murderer. Wed like to talk to him. We also suspect that he mayve left the country. Do you know where we can find him? He came to Amsterdam on Thursday morning last week and I met him with a few others whose names I shall give you, in the evening at eight, local time, for dinner at a restaurant. We did not leave the restaurant until eleven. Can we trust you not to mention your visit here to Harrington? Of course; I want the criminals caught as much as you do. I fear that my suppliers may no longer trust me, Inspector. I shall co-operate fully, hoping that everyone involved will be brought to trial. And I shall never do business with Harrington again.

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When van Bodden left, Harper spoke slowly and purposely to instil into Norton the gravity of the situation: Chris, the first thing to do is to notify Customs and Excise. Fraud in itself is a serious crime, and when fraud is the motive for murder it becomes a matter of urgency. The fraudsters will stop at nothing to achieve their purpose. He reflected upon the recent events. How could he have suspected a motive of such seriousness? Carlisle knew who van Bodden was and guessed what was going on when he received the e-mail on the 3 of November. Evans and van Bodden seemed reliable witnesses, but he doubted if he could persuade the Director of Public Prosecutions to allow him to charge Harrington only on their information. Norton couldnt hide his astonishment at Harringtons involvement: How can a man of his social and professional standing mix with ruthless criminals who didnt hesitate to commit multiple murders and fraud? I wouldve never suspected that he was dishonest, sir. Harrington does everything by the book, but at the same time hed cover up dishonesty if he unwittingly found himself implicated in it. Just as our forensic psychologist said, he knows that no one can touch him. He believes that he could do anything and get away with it. In contrast to Carlisle the idealist, Harrington the pragmatist is the epitome of our times and may be forgiven in the end. What do you mean, sir? Why forgiven? Because he has power and the powerful always win over the good. I hope if hes guilty he doesnt get away with it, sir. Lets go and see what he has to say.

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Chapter twenty-six

Life wasnt quite back to normal in Harrington Lewis. The partners had resumed their routine and saw their clients in their rooms, but Carlisles and Olivia Wilmots rooms were kept locked. Jenny was at the reception desk because Lucy was still in hospital even though her condition had improved. Harrington didnt seem pleased to see them. He was sitting in his comfortable armchair behind his desk looking very sure of himself, and he neither moved to show that he acknowledged their presence, nor spoke. He probably found this interference into his privacy, disruptive. As far as he was concerned, he had told them everything he knew about Carlisle. Harper assessed his hostility, and decided to be direct from the start. He showed him the photographs Evans had given him. Mr Harrington, whats your association with Duffy and Clifford? Theyre both acquaintances of mine. How did you come to know them? Ive acted as their lawyer on occasions regarding their real estate business; mostly conveyance. We have reason to believe that Duffy and Clifford are involved in fraud and we suspect that Carlisle had found out about it. Can you tell us what you know?

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Ive no idea what youre talking about, Inspector. I admit I talked to them on a few occasions but they did not confide in me. Mr Harrington, Ive waited to see how much information you were prepared to disclose before I began to delve deeper into this. I can get on to the Dutch authorities to find out what I want without your cooperation. If you have anything to tell me, tell me now. All my business is above board. And I think you should know, Inspector, that Im non-domiciled therefore Im telling you all this because I want to tell you, and not because Im obliged to tell either to you or to Customs and Excise. Harper didnt interrupt. Was this the crucial point of the investigation? My business interests abroad and not just in Holland are varied. Mostly, I get income from commissions. I introduce trustworthy customers to merchants who want to sell their stock; the customers buy the stock with the intention of reselling it, and for my services my fee is twenty per cent, paid directly into my Swiss Bank account. So, in your opinion, Duffy and Clifford were trustworthy customers to introduce to diamond merchants? Yes, as far as I know, Inspector. Why would the diamond merchants or any merchant for that matter trust that you wont try and cheat, by introducing untrustworthy individuals to them? I dont know, Inspector. Maybe because I have credibility. Harrington stopped talking and picked up some papers from the desk, indicating perhaps that the conversation was over. Please continue, Mr Harrington.

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I told you thats all, Inspector. Ive no idea how they resell the merchandise or how they bring it into Britain, if they bring it into Britain. We know that Carlisle came to see you when he received an e-mail from Amsterdam on the 10 of October. Did you tell Duffy and Clifford that Carlisle was asking questions about them? What I did, and maybe I shouldnt have done, was to phone them and tell them about my conversation with Hugh. I told them that Hughs information from Amsterdam was that the police accused them and Spinoza of allegedly being involved in fraud. I also told them that it was reported in the Dutch press that the police had questioned all four of us; the truth is they did not question me. Ive acted as their lawyer on a few occasions in the past so I acted as their lawyer in Amsterdam. I advised them to be discreet, not to draw the attention of the press. Inspector, believe me, I dont know if theyre involved in illegal dealings, and if so, I dont know what these dealings are. Tell us what happened when Carlisle came to see you after he received the second e-mail on the 3 of November. He did not come to see me on the 3 of November.

Back at the Station they thought about what Harrington told them, and Harper came to the conclusion that it wasnt the whole truth. He said that he doesnt know what dealings Duffy and Clifford are involved in. Im sure he does; hes a first-rate lawyer. Hed know it if they were lying to him. So, they buy the diamonds, or whatever precious stones they buy quite legitimately, and then they bring them in the country without declaring them, saving a

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fortune in excise duty and equally they make a fortune by selling them on the black market. Surely, sir, its here, where they run the risk of getting caught? They havent been caught up to now; Carlisle was the only one who found them out. Thats why they had to get rid of him. But surely, trying to sell the diamonds has its risks. No, Chris, theyre not going to get caught trying to sell the diamonds. I suspect that somewhere in Britain, in a bank vault, theres a safe deposit box containing a large amount of rough diamonds. All they have to do is, wait for the right customer. And the right customer, someone who doesnt ask for proof of import documents to show from where and from whom they bought them, buys as many as they want and pays cash. The money isnt paid here; its probably paid in a Swiss Bank account just like Harringtons. It may not be a Swiss Bank account; it could be in any so called tax haven. Thats right. In any case, we dont stand a chance of charging anyone with fraud, unless we find the diamonds and how they smuggle them in the country. Im sure they smuggle them in, or they wouldnt have been afraid of Carlisle reporting them to Customs and Excise. If Harringtons business dealings are above board as he says, why did he tell them about his conversation with Carlisle? Why did he want them to know about it? Because Harringtons business dealings are not above board, as he says. Do you think hes lying, sir? Yes, I think he is lying. When Carlisle received the first e-mail dated the 10 of October about the questioning by the Dutch police, he showed it to Harrington not because he was suspicious but because he was curious. Harrington told us that he phoned them and advised them to be discreet, not to draw the attention of the press.

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Even if hes telling the truth, they werent prepared to leave it there. So far, Carlisle was the only one who suspected that something was wrong. Fear got into them and they decided that the only way out was to kill Carlisle. So it was then, on the 10 of October, that they began to plan his murder. Clifford sent the invitation to Weston, and Duffy robbed Mrs Brown. Someone told them about Weston and Mrs Brown. And someone showed them Carlisles room. Thats right, Chris. Duffy had probably been inside the building in the past and went up to the second floor to see Harrington. I suspect that Duffy came in the building again during this last month and someone took him inside Carlisles room and he saw the bookends; I also suspect that that someone was Harrington; he says that he phoned them to tell them about his conversation with Carlisle, but hes lying. Before we confront him however, we must be absolutely sure that it was Harrington. Harper closed his eyes: Think, Chris, were forgetting something. They sat at their desks and read through the notes they had taken at the interviews scrutinizing every word. Caroline Moore had said: You have a difficult task; youre dealing with extremely clever lawyers. He may be a clever lawyer but he wont fool us. Even if he escapes justice, Chris, we shall know the truth. He wont escape justice if hes guilty, sir They emptied the contents of their briefcases. What have you got there, Chris? Did you find anything? Its the visitors book, but Ive already checked it, sir.

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Chapter twenty-seven

Duffys arrest and murder charges were on news bulletins when Harper and Norton made their way to Harrington Lewis for the second time that day. Harper was aware that he needed strong evidence to charge a clever lawyer like Harrington as an accessory to murder and fraud, and although he didnt have it, he wasnt giving up just yet. Just now, there appeared a glimmer of hope; there may still be a chance. Harrington seemed surprised to see them: Inspector, youve solved the murders. The murderer is in custody. Isnt it enough? No, Harrington, you know very well that it isnt. You knew that Lucy lied to us. You went up to her and told her not to worry, you were there to help, and there was no need for her to talk to us again. As a result, she didnt come back to tell us the whole truth. She lied to you, Inspector? I had no idea. I had a few words to comfort her; the girl was upset. Everybody here was upset, not only Lucy. You singled her out because Duffy told Clifford, who in turn told you, that she came back while he was still inside the building. So you thought, just in case, lets put her mind at rest. Inspector, Ive no idea what youre talking about.

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Then Ill start at the beginning. Duffy carried out Carlisles murder without realizing that it was you who helped him to plan it. How did I do that, Inspector? You told us that Carlisle came to see you when he received the e-mail from Amsterdam on the 10 of October and you said that you telephoned Duffy and Clifford and told them about your conversation with Carlisle. I believe Duffy came to see you here, in your room. You took him for a tour of the premises and you passed by Carlisles room. You knocked on his door. He wasnt there; he was in court that day, but you knew that, of course. You also knew that the door wouldnt be locked and when you pushed it open, the first thing Duffy noticed was the mantelpiece with the books and the two heavy bookends at each end. Duffys glance fell on the mantelpiece immediately; its the first thing one sees when one looks into Carlisles room; and he noted the two heavy bookends. So, the problem of the murder weapon is sorted; it will be the bookend. So you suppose, Inspector. It would be wise and humble to use the words: I think. Harper continued, ignoring Harringtons comment: The second problem was to find a way to get Duffy inside the building. How could you do that without implicating yourself? You werent going to give him keys; you didnt trust him that if necessary, he wouldnt admit to it if pressed. Instead, you tackled the subject of security. You told Duffy that there was no security lock, only a Chubb and a Yale and if the employees werent careful anyone could rob them; a thief couldve keys cut without them knowing. For example, take the cleaner Mrs Brown who works until nine. If a thief was to snatch her handbag, he could go to a twenty-

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four hour locksmith and return the bag to be found before she had time to report it to the practice. So now, the problem of the keys is sorted. Harrington remained calm. He didnt seem concerned at the accusations. I suppose I have to hear you out, Inspector? The third problem was to get Duffy inside when Carlisle was alone in the building. Tell me, Harrington, did you think of the consequences when you decided to use Miss Weston as bait? Did you think that you might be putting her life in danger? Of course you did. But why worry about it? Weston, just like Lucy, was expendable; so endangering her life was of no concern to you. You talked about her personal life, in a malicious and unkind manner. You hinted that she was a lonely woman and it would be easy for someone to pretend to want to get to know her better. Then, one could obtain information out of her; she could tell who was working late; was it likely that Carlisle would be the only one working late one day? And what were Mrs Browns hours? Was she likely to finish work earlier on a certain day? So, Duffy robbed the cleaner for the keys, and Clifford got to know Weston. They decided what weapon to use, obtained all the information they needed about the running of the practice and you didnt have to get involved at all. How am I doing Harrington? Its all speculation, Inspector. Carlisle became suspicious when he received the second e-mail dated the 3 of November, showing you and van Bodden standing together outside the Joker in Amsterdam. He came to see you, this time truly concerned. He had guessed what was going on, and he told you that he would report everyone involved to the authorities. When you spoke to them about your conversation with Carlisle, they had to act quickly. In fact, they were ready to act quickly. Clifford phoned on Tuesday to ask

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Weston to dinner. And Duffy knew where to find Carlisle; he had come here to see you, and as I said, you took him round to his room. Duffy didnt come here to see me, Inspector. Are you saying that Stanley Duffy didnt visit you here sometime between the 10 and 16 of October? I dont remember. We can easily verify that. Where shall we start? Your appointments diary? Very well. He opened his diary and passed it to Harper. As you can see, Inspector, theres no appointment made for Duffy that week. There was a touch of triumph in Harpers voice when he spoke: You have credited Duffy with more intelligence that he deserves. He took the visitors book that Lucy had given to Norton out of his briefcase. The caller didnt always fill in the required information; sometimes the date was missing or the address was incomplete. Sometimes the initials were entered instead of the full name. However, someone had come to see Harrington. The name of his visitor wasnt legible, but Harringtons name was. The address of the visitor was also legible; it was twenty-three Tavistock Vale. The date isnt clear, but looking at the entries before and after, I would say it was Tuesday the 14 of October. The signature is regrettably unintelligible, however, the signatory had the sense, or shall we say in this case lack of sense to write down his address. Do you agree with me Harrington, that number twenty-three Tavistock Vale belongs to our Stanley Duffy? Harrington didnt answer; Harper continued:

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We know that he uses the place for convenience when he plans to do murder in the area and to entertain underprivileged youths when he needs an alibi. Harrington said nothing. Dont you find it demeaning, Harrington, to associate with criminals like Duffy and Clifford? Tell me; were the rewards worth the ruin of your career? Harrington took his time to answer, and when he did, he sounded calm and sure of himself: I would like to assure you, Inspector, that my career is not ruined, and may I remind you that one is presumed innocent until proven guilty? Your evidence is still circumstantial. We shall need Clifford to testify said Harper. Clifford isnt going to go down for your sake; he will serve time for abetting and being an accessory to murder, but he will also do anything to lessen his sentence. He can achieve that by telling us what he knows about the scheming and carrying out of two senseless murders. Inspector, your evidence against me isnt enough to charge me with anything, let alone accessory to murder. What youre saying is that, someone who lives at twenty-three Tavistock Vale came to see me, and that this someone was Stanley Duffy. Even if the DPP agrees to bring in a charge of accessory to murder, the defence counsel will argue that the person who came to see me may not have been Duffy; how do you know that whoever signed the visitors book didnt give a false address, being that of twenty-three Tavistock Vale? Harrington explained, perhaps not out of conscience, but because he wanted Harper to know that he wasnt as callous as he was made out to be: Hugh Carlisle was a good man, Inspector, just as everybody has been saying, though obsessed with his own self-righteousness. He received an e-mail on the 10 of

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October and he came to see me then, because he was curious; as I told you before, I warned Duffy and Clifford; I told them to be discreet, not to draw the attention of the press. I began to suspect that they were up to something, but by the time my suspicions were confirmed, Hugh received the e-mail on the 3 of November and he guessed what was going on, because he knew who van Bodden was. He came to tell me that he would report everyone involved including me and van Bodden to Customs and Excise. I said that I wasnt a criminal just because I was paid commission; I would be a criminal if I continued to accept payment knowing that I earned the commission out of illicit dealings. I told him that I too, had found out what was going on and I meant to put a stop to it. My intention was to tell van Bodden to stop supplying them with the diamonds immediately. If I suspected that they were

planning to evade excise duty I wouldve never introduced them to van Bodden or any other diamond merchant. Though I gave him my word that this scenario would end, I couldnt persuade him to change his mind; he insisted that everyone involved should be reported to the authorities. Carlisles sense of duty exceeded normal standards. So, you thought it was better that he died. I never thought it would get as far as that. I hoped something would happen to make him change his mind, or perhaps he would let me bribe him. He told me that he would pursue the matter and inform the authorities as soon as possible. He said that it was only fair to warn me because we were colleagues, and that on different circumstances he wouldnt have told me in advance. If youre telling the truth that you were not aware of their illicit dealings, what were you afraid of, Harrington? My reputation would be ruined, Inspector. Both van Bodden and I wouldve been dragged into this court case which wouldve lasted for ever because they

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wouldnt have disclosed where they hid the diamonds. Even though I have reached the end of my career, my friends and clients whom I helped over the years and who have a lot of respect for me, would no longer want to know me, and no supplier would trust van Bodden again. And all this, because, a man whose colleagues described as too good to be true and who wanted the public to applaud him for doing good deeds, would not listen to reason. You helped to murder someone, whose sole purpose in life was to strive for the benefit of others; an altruist unlike no one Ive ever known. Carlisle was a good and honest man; he wanted to uphold the law. Goodness and honesty, Inspector, are futile virtues to possess in todays world; they were the flaws in his character and the reason he became a victim. As far as Harper was concerned, Harrington was an accessory to murder; it was his duty to arrest him, and he arrested him.

Do you think that honesty was the flaw in Carlisles character and thats why he became a victim, sir? asked Norton. Honesty isnt a flaw in my opinion. On the other hand, it isnt a symbol of todays values. Lets just say that Carlisle lacked one other virtue if we can call it a virtue a talent one must have to survive in our times. What talent is that, sir? Its called diplomacy, Chris. Its a great talent to possess in todays world. If, together with honesty, Carlisle also possessed diplomacy, hed be alive today. Can one be honest and diplomatic at the same time? Carlisle wouldve found a way.

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Chapter twenty-eight

For several months after the end of the investigation Harper and Norton would sit in the canteen at the Station in the morning, to dwell upon the outcome. They couldnt come to terms with their failure to charge the accessories for the murders. Norton would bring the conversation round to the same subject: Harrington is guilty sir, and he got away, because, just like Mark said, he has power; he knew no one could touch him. He can now preserve his good name, keep his commissions, money he earned from illicit dealings, and theres nothing neither the police nor Customs and Excise can do; his reputation shall remain untainted. Theres no way I couldve persuaded the DPP to charge Harrington as an accessory to Carlisles murder only on the evidence of the entry in the visitors book said Harper. Anyone couldve written it. The book wasnt locked in a drawer; it was left unattended on the reception desk. What about the handwriting? The prosecution wouldve brought in a handwriting analyst. You forget that Harrington is a powerful man. What does that tell you? What do you mean, sir? Lets suppose that Harrington went on trial for being an accessory to murder and fraud. Harrington wouldve hired the best defence counsel in the country. Harrington has some powerful friends. The DPP is probably a friend of his. What

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chance do you think the hand-writing expert stood of giving the evidence he wanted to give without being subjected to scrutiny by all those powerful men surrounding Harrington? Theyd probably make sure the experts reputation as an analyst would be tarnished for good. The jury would listen to the judges summing up telling them that the case wasnt proved beyond reasonable doubt and should find him not guilty. I still believe the handwriting was evidence, sir. It was circumstantial evidence, Chris. The kind of circumstantial evidence the defence counsel wouldve no difficulty in throwing out. The DPP realized that Harrington had played a big part in abetting at least one of the killings, but he couldnt charge him only on this evidence; Harrington knew that. His reputation wouldve been damaged, sir. Like he said, his friends and clients who had a lot of respect for him would no longer want to know him. I agree; that would probably be so. He was lucky to leave the country before the court subpoenaed him to appear as a witness in Duffys trial for Lucys attempted murder. Yes, that was regrettable. Still, we had forensic evidence for Lucys attempted murder; it was proof for the jury to convict him. Did you expect Duffy to plead guilty for the murders, sir? Yes. I believe it was Cliffords suggestion to him when they were still able to get in touch that if forensic evidence was found to charge him, he should plead guilty and say as little as possible to avoid too much probing into their affairs. He convinced Duffy that it was to their advantage one of them should be free to deal with the sale of the diamonds. Shouldnt we arrest Clifford before he absconds, sir?

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Hes not going to abscond, Chris; hes not aware that we know of the diamond smuggling and that hes followed everywhere he goes. Hes more useful to the police and Customs and Excise if hes allowed to move freely. Undercover officers will observe him closely, until, in the end, he leads us to the safe deposit box. I still wish we had charged Harrington, sir. Harpers line of reasoning did not convince Norton; there was nothing he could say to console him. He was obviously overwhelmed by Carlisles larger than life personality, even though he only came to know him when he was dead. Nevertheless, he seemed to care deeply for him. Was it a kind of loving? It would be interesting to know what Nortons feelings wouldve been, had he known Carlisle when he lived. Would they have been affectionate just like Mackenzies? And what would the feeling be now if he put his arm on Chriss shoulders and run his fingers through his hair? Would it have a soothing effect? Harper too, was overwhelmed by Carlisles personality though he knew he shouldnt let himself become partial to anyone dead or alive, who was connected to an investigation. Carlisles immature childhood and his commitment to religious convictions when he became an adult were unique. Although he told himself that it was irrational for a grown man to adopt the lifestyle of two fourth century wealthy students who were given saintly status after their death, he felt that Basil and Gregory had been suitable companions to Carlisles unworldly adolescence. On the one hand Norton was right; on the other, he was going to be an Inspector one day, so what about rules and procedures? Shouldnt he learn to accept the law? Harper too, wished they had charged Harrington but should he admit to it? He decided not to make his opinion clear: Legal procedures were followed, Chris.

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Unfair procedures, sir. Carlisle had principles. I agree. But I also agree with Harrington that Carlisles sense of duty exceeded normal standards. He would never break the law to help someone out of trouble. This clashed with the wishes of the powerful who, in any case, always win over the good; whats more, society supports them. Think back in history a couple of thousand years and youll see that even then, society supported the powerful that crucified the good, or gave them hemlock to drink. It shouldnt happen today, sir. Shakespeare comes to mind; in Julius Caesar, Mark Anthony, the manipulative orator, incites the citizens of Rome to assassinate Brutus and then he praises him: this was the noblest Roman of them all. Today, a powerful lawyer, Robert Harrington, plots to murder Hugh Carlisle and then he too, praises him: he was a good man but he had to die. So, you see, nothings changed. I didnt read Shakespeare at school, sir. I did my reading after I left school, Chris.

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Chapter twenty-nine

One day, when life had returned to its regular pace in Harrington Lewis, Detective Inspector Harper went to see George. He made his way to Grays Square once more. Lucy was at the reception desk. Her face lit with joy when she saw Harper. She gave him the visitors book to sign and as he walked towards the lift she called out to him: Ill tell Margaret youre here, Inspector.

When Harper saw George he noticed that he looked older; he had grown up since the days when the shock from Carlisles murder had thrown him off balance for a while. He had controlled his feelings well but Harper recognized the emotional turmoil he had suffered. Now, he saw that he had recovered. He was probably his old self again, the self he hadnt met before. It was as if he was seeing him for the first time. Carlisle had taught him how to achieve excellence in his profession and it looked as though George heeded his advice. Harper saw it in his character from the start that George took great pleasure in his work; he was the kind of person who would do his best for those who came to him for advice. Did he see his work like a service to the public? Like a priest sees his congregation? Probably, Harper thought. Is he going to be another Carlisle, too good to be true? What would he do if the claimant or defendant acted unethically but not necessarily illegally? Well, George

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aimed to be a judge one day, and following procedures would be advantageous, at least until the day when he was appointed to the post. Are things back to what they were, Mr Mackenzie? Time is a healer, Inspector. I didnt think I could pull through. Hugh has become a beautiful memory. What about Marinos? Good news, Inspector. Mr Weinberg passed the case on to me and I wasnt going to let the family down by not trying as hard as I could for them. Georges eloquence and beautiful voice could charm an audience: The hearing was something like out of Athens in the 6th century BC. I, of course, referred to Aristotles Constitution of Athens which made an impression on the judge. He asked me to explain Dracons Laws and how I compared them to the laws of today. I talked about how loans were secured on the debtors person; I said that losing ones freedom and becoming a slave to someone had no place in todays world. I explained how even then, Dracons successor Solon abolished the cruel laws and took it one step further by introducing laws which cancelled all private and public debts. I summed up by saying that we were reverting to ancient times by allowing loan sharks to treat honest individuals this way. And Marinos are an honest and hard working family. The judge had no hesitation in doing exactly what Solon wouldve done. He ruled that Money4youLtd had taken unfair advantage by setting exorbitant terms in the contract and by charging unreasonably high interest rates. Marinos Bakery dont have to repay the loan and they are now in business. The family must be grateful to you, Mr Mackenzie. Yes, I suppose they are, Inspector. Mr Sabatini came to thank me the day after the hearing. He was overcome with emotion and embraced me. He made for all

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of us here, the most delicious chocolate truffles. Hes a truly master cake maker and we wouldve lost out if he hadnt been able to continue his trade. Are you going to stay in the practice? Yes. Mr Weinberg offered me a permanent contract; I accepted of course. He laughed and said jokingly: I have a long way to go before I can become a judge. I wish you luck; youll certainly make a fair judge. Harper took the Constitution of Athens out of his briefcase. Perhaps you could return it to whoever is collecting Carlisles personal effects. A coincidence, Inspector; Anna came today to do that. They went in Carlisles room. When Harper saw Anna he remembered the girl in the silver framed photograph on the mantelpiece in Carlisles drawing room. She was tall and slim and wore her long, auburn hair tied in a knot at the back of her head. Just like in the photograph, her arched eyebrows framed her almond-shaped eyes, and her jaw-line gave her face the shape of a heart. She was filling boxes with her fathers books; she smiled at George and said: Im glad you came; I dont want to take more than what belonged to dad. She turned to Harper: Thanks for catching the murderer, Inspector. Miss Carlisle, Im sorry for your loss. Your father was a good man; I heard the tributes to his memory. She stopped what she was doing and sat down in her fathers chair behind the desk resting her head in her hands. My fathers memory, his ideals and principles will be my guide throughout my life, Inspector. Im lucky to have the best role model I could have. His memory will give me strength. May I ask what your plans are?

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Its my duty to continue his legacy, Inspector. Ive been accepted for a pupilage in the Inner Temple. Talking to George and Anna raised Harpers spirits and he felt a sense of satisfaction that he had done a good job. Even though Clifford had escaped for the time being, it was a good result; they caught the murderer. Carlisles spirit shall live on for a while yet, Harper thought. Eventually though, both Anna and George shall remember him as a beautiful distant memory. Time is a healer when youre young.

When Harper walked into Margarets room he didnt know what to expect. He remembered their first conversation about friendship: there are those who confuse love with friendship; was she talking about her husband? He felt that he was harbouring guilty secrets. He consoled himself by saying that it was the nature of the job; it was obligatory for a policeman to know everything in a murder investigation. Margaret glowed with health and happiness. It looked as though she found a way to come to terms with Carlisles death. Have there been changes? Harper asked her. Mr Harrington retired as he was planning to do. Olivia and George are doing what they can to help Hughs clients with their problems. They cannot bear to come here and not see him. One doesnt forget a man like Hugh Carlisle. I shall never forget him, Inspector. I find it comforting and reassuring to imagine his face. Thinking about him is like saying a prayer. His memory is so vivid that at times I forget that hes dead.

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She walked towards the far end of the room and beckoned him to follow her. In a corner against the wall, inside a small desk with a glass top, Harper saw the contents of Carlisles storage box. There was the crucifix, the icons and the bibles, the notepads with the childish handwriting open to reveal a page full of quotes, the biographies of saints, and pamphlets dating decades back. A vase of fresh flowers was placed on the window sill close by. Pinned on a notice board on the wall above the desk was a photograph of Carlisle surrounded by more notes. Margaret had copied some of the quotes from the notepads. A quote underneath the photograph read: Forsake not an old friend; for the new is not comparable to him; a new friend is as new wine; when it is old, thou shall drink it with pleasure. I had to have this shrine, Inspector, to help me come to terms with his death. Anna will let me keep Hughs souvenirs for as long as necessary. Maybe, one day, I shall have no need for all this, but right now, it helps me to cope. When I want to reflect, I sit at this desk and browse through these relics. The employees too, come from time to time and stand here to think about Hugh; so his memory will live on. I often dream about him; sometimes the dream is slight, it passes like a fleeting image, and sometimes it tells a story. It must tell a beautiful story. One night I dreamt that I went to church and knelt in front of the altar to pray. I closed my eyes, brought my hands together and prayed to God that Hughs soul may rest in peace. In my dream I opened my eyes and I saw Hugh looking down on me from the dome. I knew he was dead because I knew it was his spirit that looked down. His spirit laughed and said: Rest in peace? I dont want to rest in peace; there are so many spirits to meet and talk to. Ive just seen two of my favourite whom I first met in the library at the vicarage when I was fourteen. Seeing them again jogged my

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memory and I remembered that they were responsible for my growing up to become a man too good to be true. The least I can do is to go and say hello.

Harper went and sat on a wooden bench underneath the trees in Grays Square, and cast his mind back forty years to a library in a vicarage where a small boy and his father spent their afternoons together, comfortable in each others company. It wouldve been cosy sitting in that library; it wouldve been warm in the winter with a fire burning in the hearth. The boy was an avid reader and showed exceptional talent from an early age. He had no fear of encountering disappointments in life; he was surrounded by the security and love of his family who had laid strong foundations for his future. Then, having reflected upon Hugh Carlisles privileged middle class background, he made comparisons with his own; it was hugely different. He came from an underprivileged background. His father was a self-employed house painter and decorator, who did not always have work. His mother was an assistant in a clothes shop, but although her wages were below the poverty line, it was regular work, and the money was sufficient to support the family during the times when his father was unemployed. He did not enjoy the cosiness of a home library with either of his parents; he sat alone in a flat in a rough neighbourhood where the only books available to him were his text books. Forty years on and his life was exactly how he wanted it to be; he wouldnt have wished for anything else but to be with Rita. He was happy, and was guaranteed happiness for the rest of his life; he felt sure of that.

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He started to walk aimlessly stopping from time to time to read the names of the distinguished past owners on the blue plaques on some of the houses along the way. This area was the haunt of artists, writers and thinkers. And this was the most cultured place in the world. Just around the corner, visitors from all over the planet came to admire the wonders of civilization in the British Museum. He stopped on a section of the pavement where his route was blocked by crowds and saw that he had strolled outside the gates of the Museum. He hadnt been inside since before the refurbishment. Now, he went in and stood under the Dome in the Great Hall, observing the transformation, walking slowly through the galleries which displayed the relics of ancient times. He found himself in the rooms where the Kings Library used to be. It was now the Enlightenment Gallery. The notice at the entrance explained that it was about the age of reason, exploring the passions and ideas of collectors and scholars from the eighteenth century when the Museum was built. What kind of people had collected the beautiful objects on display? He made a promise to himself to go again with Rita. He started to walk towards the Station. When he was about to go in, Sergeant Norton and Olivia Wilmot were coming out. Its a fine day, Inspector; Chris and I are going for a stroll by the river. Harper smiled as he watched them walk away holding hands. They look good together, he thought. *END*

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