Dated RT et mene Fone en ee rod Sree eer et Poe meer Ener ‘What could be more peaceful, more harmless Se oe ees Peer ern? Se eT re aes Reena ees eee ae, Superintendent Dalziel chinks i's Seen iets ee es or Cee ere Reginald HillDEADHEADS Stages How could ots be cece with murder A rove garden insummer is light place, ull of colours snd sweet, scent and the peacfel um of be It hax nothing do wth jealousy ate, gee revenge the ual motes fr murder, “The gardens a Rosemont Howe ae very beautiful, and Patch Aldermana say prod of his rose Inder, he seer think of ite ees al the more suet, rte his ors, Dick Elgon eepores him othe police for tntempted murder. "Egos gne sot the heady says {Chic Saperintendent Darel, ba, jst seas, he vl Inspector Pascoe to nesta Pasee would rather be catching burglar, but he begin lft dg ino Patrick AMcrmann’s past. Meanie, his wif, Ee, becomes enly ih Aleman’ wie, tnd young Police Cadet Singh discovers some interesting Information about vistors to Elgvod’s seaside ota. Personal lives hecome mixed up with profesional duties. However, Psscoegoesondigsing, andberinstopetexcited, then more and more parted Reginald Hil (1936— ) isa welbhnown writer af crime roves His Dail and Pascoe devetve sori ae se Yorkshit,whse he hime ves a: Farum woraneencss = Seri tr ne Hed‘OXFORD BOOKWORMS: we eee Oxford En ~ Black Series ~~ Facets Ty “Theta WH cts (Gatti Swen men ster enna rie rane ‘Tethuncmeéte Oe fear Bawat Thee moa Chan Sear SE vey oma ard "Are Con Tedd oe Cole etn hl ans ‘eae fm Bo esse 5100 ator rae 6.2500 ewan “Sect thee Sealine beri Tomar Hy Levee eS Green Jb ‘Reshond Gi Sb hr in ‘to hms or si ‘Wratten Bemealy Denese Rpt a Comtesse fr thet ~ Green Serie Natio of nic and mere as or ge ik sews bite Bones ead Ae Anencsa Wnt Levee! “airs eds fon Toho Ra fn ns) Cg ed ‘THR teler ot Zande Aowy Hope [BSc fan ret OXFORD BOOKWORMS COLLECTION ton by et rt ac i Tee brid any ay as aaa che hor win by Sk Eos Wang Roald Dahl ees ti he Sei go ae DEADHEADS Reginald Hill retold by Rosalie Kerr ~~ot Cen re ud ORD 5OF Ondo Yk ‘Ate Aud Bagh op emey ‘en Aes Cala Cp own BSD Ce hd Wee Mec Cy Fh Spore Tape Tuy Tote sree a a Osh Urey rs fie pte 9 Wa Cait Cod ‘Tavsmpid een © Oxo Urey Pes 1993 egies Nanhai se tiingnenl Nort ration ‘Ty om rama cee ean toc wore rere rt ent ‘wen porno Oxy Use ro ‘shots ilé bec h cnton at al et, Uy orol ade or thre ble sled uo ‘hone te tw eps pi ame hate Sick Hae “ype y Pear Hh yom Bak “Ped nage by Clo Death in a rose garden Mrs Florence Aldermann hated to see her garden looking so neglected. Her old gardener, Caldicot and his son, Dick, had not been working properly. That was because she had refused to employ Dick's son Brent. Brent had stolen some fruit from hergarden, and tha was serious crime to Mrs Aldermann, She would have to get rd ofthe Caldicots. ‘With ths thought in her mind, she rook her sharp knife and angrily cut the dead flowers from a rosebush. Aste deadheads fellinto her bucket, she realized that someone was watching her. "Patti," she called crossly, ‘come here!” Slowly the boy came up 0 her. Aged about eleven, he was still small for his age. His face was pale and expressionless, Mrs Aldermana could never see Patrick without feeling angry. She had been angry when her nieve Penelope had produced this unwanted child. She had been even angrier when Penelope refused to say who the father was, Mes Aldermann’s anger was strong and long-lasting, She til feleangey with poor Eddie Alderman, her husband, for dying two years ago and Teaving her alone to look after Rosemont, this big house and its demanding gardens. Finally she was angry with herself for rowing old and tired, angry with herself for having a hear attack while shopping in London six months ago.Deadheads 1 was lucky that Penelope had been with her when illness struck, Peony was sensible, calm, and an excellent nurse [Nothing upset Penny. She had shown no anger or bitterness, for ‘example, when told tha after Mr Aldermann’s death the money bbe had given her for years would stop. Florence Aldermann came out of he private hospital as soon as she was well enough to travel, and returned t0 Rosemont. Penny came with her and looked after her perfectly. ‘The only problem was thar where Penelope went, Patrick had to t00. Despite this, Mes Aldermann had asked her nice t stay with her at Rosemont permanently. The house was too big for her to live in alone, and Penny would be erateful, she felt sue, t0 be offered a home in such lovely part of Yorkshite. She could not belive her eats when Penelope said she was missing London, and would have to think about her aunt's offer. How could anyone prefer a tiny, dark London flat 10 fine old house like Rosemont, with its beautiful gardenst ‘Mars Alderman was about to speak crossly co Patrick, but before she could open her mouth, the boy said, ‘Uncle Edie used to do that. Why do you do it? Hisinterest surprised her. She spoke ess angrily than she had planned t0. “When the flowers fade and begin to dic’ she said, we have 10 cut them off, so that new flowers can grow. We call it deadheading,” As she spoke, she expertly sliced off another faded, sweet-smelling rose “Deadheading’ he repeated. So thatthe new young flowers can grow? “That's right, Patrick.” She felt almost pleased with the boy. For che frst time, she 2 Death ina rose garden Tooked at him with interest. The Caldicots had failed her, but what if Prvick could be trained to look ater her roses? What an excellent ~ and cheap ~ pardener he might become! She smiled at him. “Here, Patrick, take the knife show you how to deadhead roses. Becareful.Iesexteemely sharp e belonged to your great vale Edie. Carefully, he took the kif in his hand. "Let me ce you remove this deadhead,’ she ordered him. She took hold of a dead flower “Cut it just here, Patrick. Patrick! ‘Are you listening to me? He looked from the knife to his great-aunt. His face was not auite so expressionless as usual. There was something new there. He ignored the dead rose, and slowly aise the knife so ‘thatthe sunlight shone on the polished stel ‘Patrick!’ said Mes Aldermann, taking a step back. ‘The rose that she had been holding towards him escaped from her handy and its thorns dug painflly inc her arm. Then there were other, more violent sensations in her shoulder and neck, which had nothing to do with the rose thorns. ‘She screamed once before she fll backwards in the rose bed. Petals from the dying roses rained down on her. Patrick waited until all movement had stopped. Then he dropped the knife, and ran rowards the house, shouting fr bis motherCHAPTER 1 “I chink someone is killing people? Richard Elgood was sity years old, but as he came rowards Peter Pascoe, he moved like a dancer in hs sft leather shoes. Pascoe shook Elgood's hand and smiled. ‘Sit down, Mr Elgood. How can I help you?” Elgood did not smile, akhough he had a pleasant, cheerful face. “Tm not sure how to begin, Inspector he sid ‘They both sat down. Pascoe waited, watching the man, noticing hissik ie, the gold i-pin, the expensive cut of his suit. ‘Please, Mr Elgood,’ Pascoe said, “Tell me about it.” Elgood rook a deep breath “There's this man. In our company. I think he's killing people.” Pascoe was tired. He had been working for much of the previous night, waitingina garden for some burglars who never came, He desperately wanted to slep. “Can you give me just alittle more detail?” he asked. “Teertinly can,’ Elgood said rather tell my friend Andy Dabzel, but if he trusts you, I'll rust you too." He smiled at Pascoe, and Pascoe said, “Mr Daliel’s very sory he can't see you himself.” ‘What Detective Chief Superintendent Dalziel had actually sDeadheads said a5, I haven't got time to waste on old Dick Elgood this _morning. You look after him for me. And take him seriously. He's gota sharp mind, he's made more money than you or wll verse, and he’s got lt of influence in this par of Yorkshire." “All right’ Pascoe had said, but who is Elgood? Whar does he do? “Oh, you've seen his nai,’ Daltiel had smiled, showing yellow teth, We've al seen it many times. Then he had gone, leaving Pascoe puraled, “Now, Mr Elgoods” Pascoe sad. "You say this man works for your company. What kind of company is ‘Ever use a toilet” Elgood asked. Pascoe stared at him, speechless "Then you've seen my name,’ Elgood went on. “We make toilets, sinks all that kind of thing” “Of course!” Pascoe exclaimed. ‘Elgood Ceramics. I should hhave known.” “The chat company up with my ovin hands, Elgood said proudly." started with nothing, and got where Lam through hard work and hard work alone.” “And this. e¢.. killer,’ Pascoe said. He works for you, oes he? a “Well, who is it? You must give me his name. Elgood hesitated. Thenhe said ina low voice," Patrick Alderman” Later thar day, Pascoe went to see Chief Superintendent Dalicl, and told bir shat Ehgood had said. Dalziel laughed. “Dick's always been a bit odd, but I never thought he was actualy sft inthe head before!” 'sAldermann, ‘ “L think someone is klling people "Do you know him well” Pascoe asked. “Known him for years, He's quite a character, is old Dick, Did you notice the way he deesses, allsilk shirts and gold rings? You woulda’: look twice at him in London, but you don't ‘expect a plain Yorkshite boy to grow up into something like that, And the women! A new one every weck,ifyou believe the gossip. Wish I had the secret of is success” “Lee, sir’ Pascoe said. “What exactly would you like me 0 do? “Tell me what you know so fa “Elgood thinks Alderman has killed wo men who worked for his company. Their names were Brian Bulmer and Timothy Eagles, Bulmer died in a car crash after the office party last CCristmas. Eagles had a heart attack at is desk” ‘Why does Dick think Aldermann was involved?" “Twas about to tll you. Aldermann kept giving Balmer drinks atthe parcy, almost forcing him to drink too much to drive safely, Elgood says, And Aldermann shared an offic with Eagles. “Why should Aldermann want to kill Bulmer and Eagles?” “Aldermann is ambitious. Well, not exactly ambitious “Make up your mind. Is he or isn’t he? “Elgood doesn’t think Aldermann is very interested in his job, Pascoe explained, 'so he isn't cally ambitious. Bur he needs more money. He would improve his chance of a better- paid job with Bulmer and Eagles ou ofthe way. "Does Dick realy believe that?" Dali! said. Something else must have happened to make him cometo the police, What was “You're right’ Pascoe sad. ‘Something did happen, Ie seems 7Deadheads he had a quarrel with Aldermann last Friday. Flgood told Aldermann that he didn’t intend to promote him, although Balmer and Eagles had gone. Then he had 0 go out to a meeting, and after that he recurned to his office and worked until late, When he turned on his desk lamp, he gota powerful electric shock. He thought it was just an accident. Then yesterday morning he went t0 open his garage door ~ one of those metal up-and-over doors. Ie came off its supports and almost crashed down on top of him. Fortunately, he just ‘managed to jump out ofthe way. That's when he started to fel frightened.” “Um,’said Dali, Hescratchedhis huge stomach thoughtfully “Why doesn’t Dick wane to promote Alderman? he asked. ply that he doesn’t think Aldermann i very good at hs job. The second is office politics. “There are some people on the company's Board of Directors who would like to weaken Elgood's position as Chairman, to take some of his power from him, They want Aldermana on the Board just because they know Elgood doesn’t want him.” “Is that a fact? I think we'd better have a look at Mr Alderman for ourselves, don’t you? Got any good ideas on how we “Actually, Uhave, sir, Pascoe said. Sergeant Wield has given ‘me some interesting information about a ear which was badly scratched, probably by vandals, while it was parked in town the ‘other day. Irseemsthe owner isa Mrs Daphne Aldermana, who lives at Rosemont Howse." “Two reasons, sit. The frst iss 10 and see him without making him suspicious?” CHAPTER 2 Daphne Aldermann makes a new friend Patrick Alderman was standing in the garden at Rosemont, breathing inthe perfume of his oses. Golden, pink, yellow and red, they were a beautiful sight, and he smiled to himself as he inspected the flowers he loved. Life had been kind ro Patrick, In his early thirties he still looked young and handsome. He was happily married, and had son and a daughter, both at expensive private schools. His moment of peaceful enjoyment in the garden did not last Jong. ‘The sound of his daughter Diana's voice reminded him that today he had to drive her to school. Normally his wife Daphne did this, bu her ar had been damaged by vandals, and was a che garage, being repaired. He also knew that before he left he must find time to speak to his gardeners, They were the Caldicotts, the same family who had worked for his great-aunt. The old man had died, and now Dick, his son Brent and two young assistants kept the gardens neat and tidy. One of chem had left the greenhouse door open, and Patrick wanted to make it clear toa of them that this was 2 serious offence. In furure it would be beter if none of ther centered the greenhouse at all Daphne Allermann waited patiently for her husband, although she wanted to speak to her daughter's teacher that morning and was eager t0 go. She knew how important theDeadheads arden was to Patrick. A tall, good-looking, blonde woman, she Inad married young, very soon after the tereibleaceident that tna killed her father. Now, twelve yeas and two children later, ‘he knew tha she was very lucky in every way but one. Shedd not feel she really knew her hushand. He seemed ro live in a different world from her, a world in which the future was a ‘certain as the past, Ie was strange how frightening she found this ‘The sun was shining as they left Rosemont, but by the time they reached Diana's school, the sky was black, “Oh nat” Daphne sai. “Looks like rain, doesnt it” Patrick said, ‘Shall I wait and drive you ino cown?* “No, chanks,’ Daphne replied. 'm not afraid of abit of rain. Look! That lot are here again.” She pointed toa small group of women, who were standing near the school gate. Two of them had small children with ‘them, and each was areyinga sign on which she had written her ‘own message. PRIVATE SCHOOLS = PUBLIC DISASTER was one; another was FREE SCHOOLS FOR ALL CHILDREN, "Don't speak to chem,’ Patrick advised her. "Goodbye, deat.” Fifteen minutes later, finding herself out in the stret in a beavy shower, Daphne fle ess happy about walking neo town in the tain. She looked around for a friend, but all the other mothers had gone. As she hesitated on the pavement, she poticed a young woman with short black haie putting a baby into a rather old car. Daphne wondered if she had seen her ‘fore, and smiled hopefully “You look as if you need lif the woman sai, “Thanks awfully. That's really most kind of you.’ Daphne replied, Daphne Alderman massa nee friend She opened the car door, As she did so, something on the back seat caught her eye. The words PUBLIC DISASTER seemed to jump out a he. “Y's allright’ che woman said. ‘I won’ talk about it.” Acold wind was blowing rain onto Daphne's eps. She po in “What lovely litle boy? she said rightly, looking at the baby, who was wearing be clothes. “Actually, she's giel the woman sai, ‘and she isn always lovely. The blue clothes are a rest of people's automatic reactions, Why should pink mean girl and blue a hoy? Let me introduce my daughter, Rose. ‘And you,’ Daphne said coolly. ‘Are you Rose's mother o her father?” For a moment the woman looked shocked. Then she theew back her head and laughed loud “Mother, she said. My name's Ellie. Ellie Pascoe. Rose and are on our way to have acup of coffee. Would you like to join “Why not? Daphne sad ‘Ten minutes later Daphne found herself drinking. milky coffee in the Market Café, where Ellie and Rose scemed to be well-known customers. It was cheerful and noisy and full of shopkeepers from the market. It was not the sort of place Daphne usually went to for coffee. She wondered if Elie had Drought her there deliberately, hoping to make her fee! ‘uncomfortable ~ a rich woman among the workers. She saw Ellie watching her amusement, when suddenly allconversation in the café stopped. Looking up, Daphne saw that eo policemen had come in, One was an elderly man, and the other 4 young Asian, hardly more than a hoyDeadheads Daphne Aldermann makes new frie The customers relaxed and started talking again asitbecame clear thatthe policemen only wanted a cup of tea, They were looking around for an empty table when, to Daphne’ surprise, the older man came towards her and Elle “Hello, Mes Pascoe,’ said. How are you? Hos litle Rose™ “We've fine, Mr Wedderhuen, Who's your friend? I haven't seen him before.” “This is Police Cadet Shaheed Singh,’ Wedderburn said. ‘Tm ineodcing him tothe joys of trafic control. Singh his Mrs Pascoe, Detective Inspector Pasco’ wife” Fie smiled a Singh, ‘Will you join us? she said. The young man smiled back ar her, but Weddesbuen sad, “Thanks, but we en’ A quick cup of tea and then we must get back to work. Nice ro sce you, Mrs Pascoe” ‘Well’ Daphne said when the men had gone, "so 1 in with the police, am P| “My husband's in che police, yes,” Ele eplied, ‘but Pm not ‘What does yous husband do, Daphne?” “He works for Elgood Ceramics” "So you take a bg interes in sinks and tiles, do you?” "Not eelly," Daphne said, looking pure ‘Exactly,’ Ellie said. ‘We may be married, but we are stil individual people, aren’ we?” “Yes, bucitisn'c as simple as that. What i Told you that my husband was involved in some crime? Wouldn't you Feel you should tell your husband?" Ellie thought about i for a moment. Then she std, ‘Tm not sare. What if told you my husband was investigating yours? Would you feel you had to ell him? 2 Elie siledatSngh "Wil yo oi a” se aid aDeadheads Before Daphne could answer, she was interrupted by a wel: bull, middle-aged lady, dressed in bright colours, who was ‘coming towards them with 2 cup of coffee in one hand, and a large plate of chocolate cake in the other. “Hello” she cried. ‘e's Daphne Alderman, isn't? Lovely 9 ‘ee you again! always meant to keepin touch, but ie gets so busy, doesn i She turned and waved at three men, who were sitting at 2 table on the other side ofthe cafe “Coming, darlings! Must rush, Daphne. Bye!” "So you do know someone who comes here, Ellie sai. "You should have asked your friend co sit down. She looks like an interesting character.” "Do you really think so? Well, Mandy Burke s hardly one of ny best friends. Her husband used to work with mine, unt he died about four o ive yearsago.I'veonly mether once orice since then. Anyway, I don’t think Mandy would want sit with ewo women and a baby when there are men she could be entertaining! Ellie laughed. She was finding this elegant lady a surprisingly amusing companion. “Let me get you some more coffee, Daphne’ she said. CHAPTER 3 ‘The most important thing in life Patrick Alderman’ office still had the name of Timothy Eagles fon the door. That didn’t upset him. As his colleagues knew, it was difficult to upset Patrick Elgood remembered the party they had had at the office the previous Christmas. He had noticed Aldermann talking 0 the Financial director, Brian Bulmer, and he had also seen that Bulmer was drinking heavily. Dick Elgood, however, had his ‘mind on other things. He was leaving the party early, to meet a lady. Hours later, the news reached him. Bulmer's car had crashed, minutes after the end ofthe party, and he was dead. Dick Elgood had spent that Chaistmas alone at his holiday cottage by the sea. He thought alot about Bulmer's death and about who should replace him on the Board of Directors. The ‘bese man would he the chief accountant, Timothy Eagles, who ‘was good at his job and loyal to the company. Some of the directors, who were led by a man called Erie Quayle, wanted Patrick Aldermann, but Elgood would not listen to them, ‘Then Eagles had died, suffering a fatal heat attack as he sat at his desk. It soon became clear that Quayle and his geoup ‘wanted to make a serious attack on Elgood's chairmanship. ‘They supported Alderman, notbecause he would make a good director, but because they knew Elgood didn’t want him on the Board. During that year, Flgood found himself fighting abatle, ryDeadheads “The most important sing inlife «battle for hs survival as Chairman of the Boat ‘Aldermann himself appeared not to care whether he became 1 member of the Board of not. "Honestly, Dick,” he had rold Elgood last Friday, it doesn’ bother me a al." ‘This made Elgood so angry that he ended up shouting at Aldeemann, "you ever geta place onthe Board i'l be over my dead body" Patrick had continued to smile politely ‘Yesterday Elgood had gone to the police with his story, but since then he had calmed down and regained his self-control He knew that for him the most important thing in the world was to old on to the power he had as Chaitman of the Board of Dinectors He called his secretary into the room. I want you ro check something for me,” he told hee. "Find our exactly when Mr ‘Aldermann is taking his holiday this summer."Then he rang a London number, and asked for Mr Raymond Ease. In his office on the floor below, Patrick Aldermann was ‘opening his private lerters, one of which contained a hick bundle of papers. He, to, phoned someone in London, and ‘then called hie secretary in “Tl be away next Thursday and Friday,’ he told her. He smiled in a way which made her think how young and handsome he sill was. “I think you can all manage without me for a couple of days,’ he sid When Aldermann got home that evening, he found Daphne's car back inthe garage. It had been repaired, and he examined the new paine before he went into the house. Diana ran to meet him. Mummy's ouside” she told im. He lifed her onto his shoulders, and together they went to 16 find Daphne, who was relaxing in the garden. It had rained earlier, but now it was a perfect June evening. ‘sce your cat's back," he said. “Look! The rain’s knocked some petals off the roses." “Leave them,’ Daplune said. ‘Tl get us a drink. Sit down and hhave a rest after your hard day at the office” ‘She went into the house. In the distance, Patrick heard the font doorbell ring. A couple of minutes later Daphne came back, bringing the drinks, but also bringing two men with her. ‘The older man was white, the younger Asian, but what made Patek stare at them was the ugliness ofthe one and the heauty of the other, Tm Detective Sergeant Wield, the ugly man sid, “and thisis, Police Cadet Singh.” How can I help you? Patrick asked politely. “Actually, daring, they want co see me,’ Daphne said. "I's about the car. We can talkin the house so that we dont disturb yo "You won't disturb me," Patrick said. ‘Td be interested t0 hhear what the police are doing, and to help if possible.” “Very kind, sir’ Wield said. He wanted to have a good look at Patrick Alderman, and co include him inthe conversation if be could Wield turned to Daphne, ‘Now, ma'am. On Monday this week you parked your car inthe Station Strcet multi-storey cat park, What time did you leave it "Nine fiftcen, Ithink. 100k my daughter to school, and chen rove into town todo some shopping.” “And you didn’t come back until ater thre o'clock. Did you spend the whole day shopping?” 7Deadheads “The most important ding in fe “Vm afraid so, Daphne laughed. “When Igor hack, someone «else had already found his car damaged, and the police were there.” “And wien you left your ear, were there any others there? “Tean’t remember’ Daphne said. T might have been the first. oes it marcer?" No, Wield though, ie didn't mater. This plan of getting 2 ood look at Alderm “Not many more questions,’ he sad. "Do you know anyone ‘who might want to harm you in some way?” “By damaging my car? Daphne said, surprised. "But it wasn't jst my car. Others were damaged, 00.” “V know. But the sratchings on your ear might have been words. Words which suggest they knew it was a woman's ca” “Ta lefe my hat in che ear,’ Daphne said. ‘Anyone could see that? “What words were scratched on the car, Sergeant? Pattick asked, “Hard 1 say, sit Wield said uncomfortably. Daliel would say those words, he thought. He'd enjoy embarrassing these peoplet “Why would ehis person damage other cats, if these words were aimed only at my wife?” "We have «0 try everything, sin’ Wield cold him. “For ‘example, what about you? Do you have any enemies who might want to do you some harm? Anyone you know through your work? Patrick shook his head. ‘I work for Elzood Ceramics, I can think of nobody there who dislikes me enough ro do this.” He was getting nowhere, Wield thought desperately. He was not going too well 18 ‘would have to tell Pascoe this visit was a wast of time Suddenly Diana, who had been looking shyly at Police Cadet Singh through her fingers, sai, ‘Mummy, can I show him my Rowers? “Ob, I don’ chink..." Daphne began, but Singh jumped to his fet witha smile and said, ‘OF course, I'd love to see them. (Come and show me. “LIhope you don’t mind, si," Wield said ro Patrick. ‘He's a ‘good lad. And your garden is areal treat tothe eyes, Especially the roses, Patrick's smile was as happy as Singh's ‘It's a good year for them, he said. ‘Do you grow roses, Sergeant?” “Y'm afraid not,’ Wield said. ‘I've only got a very small arden? “There are roses for every garden.’ Patrick's voice had changed, and was ful of enthusiasm. “Even the smallest garden has room fora few roses if you choose the right varieties. And think of the excitement of planting a new variety, and watching, the frst roses open "1 see plenty of excitement in my job,’ Wield laughed. ‘Doyou? Patrick asked seriously.“ fndlife holds surprisingly few surprises ~ ouside my garden, I mean.” ally must see to the dinner,” Daphne said. ‘And it's time Diana came in’ She spoke politely, bir learly she was eager for Wield and Singh to leave Patrick ignored this “Diana’s perfectly happy,’ he said. “Just listen to her. And 1 must show the Sergeant one or two roses Pd like to recommend to him? Heed Wield to large greenhouse, where he picked up a bag and took a knife from a high shelf. The greenhouse was full of 1Deadheads tools and there was a large wallcupboard with a heavy lock on the door. “Good to sce you've got strong locks, sin’ Wield said approvingly “have to be careful, Sergeant, with children about, Patrick replied. ‘I keep enough pesticide in that cupboard to poison an army.” ‘As they walked among the roses, he used the knife vo cutoff dying flowers, which he dropped into the bag “Surely you have help with the garden?” Wield ssid. “You ‘can’t look afterall sis by yourself” “Thave help, Pattick told him, “but I do as much as posible myself. Tis garden isthe centre of my lif. I dream of having, ‘more time to give ait, [think we reall damaged, don’t you, by limits on the development of our true nature ~ limits forced on us by the hard necessities of life." ‘Wield felt that the man was speaking directly to him, as if Patrick Aldermann could know his own unhappy story. Ugly a8 hhe was, Wield had loved, and had been loved. He was alone now, and he could not bear to think of his loneliness. “Thats fine knife, he said, wanting to change the way the conversation was going. Patrick smiled. “Ie belonged to my great-uncle, He created this garden. He loved i very much. Casting off the dying flowers isa sad but necessary job fora gardener. A true lover of plants like my great-uncle always wanes to do it quickly and kindly. He needs the sharpest knife possible.” “The sun flashed on the point of the knife. “Now, let me show you these.” His enthusiasm for his roses had something almost religious 2» The most important bing im fe about it. Wield found he envied the man, not for his hous, his ‘garden or his family, but just because he knew so well what he wanted from life, and was able o enjoy it He fee sad when Daphne called Patrick to dinner, and it was time for them to go. “Thope ie wasall right for meto play with the lite gel” Singh said to him as they walked to the ear. ‘T thought it would give you more time ro speak to her mum.” ‘Wield stared at him for a moment, forgetting that Singh knew nothing about the real reason for their visit. “That Mrs Alderman,’ the boy went on, ‘she was in the Market Café chs morning, and guess who she was with? Me Pascoe’s wif!” Wield stared at him again, coldly this time, “You were supposed to he on traffic duty, not hanging around the Marker Cafe’ he said roughly. They drove back to the Police Station in silenceCHAPTER 4 Another death at Elgood Ceramics Peter Pascoe was dancing baby Rose on his knee. ‘Silly old Dalziel, sily old Dati,” he sang to her over and over again. “Whats the fat creaturedone to you now?’ Fie asked, as she ‘came into the oom. “Fat creature! What a way to talk about your daughter’ Pascoe sai "Very funy. What has Dalziel done?” "Oh, nothing much. He just goes on about this Elgood and Aldermann thing. But I don’t know what he wants me to do. ‘Wield went to sce them lastnight. “The Aldermanns? “Yes, He pretended it was all about your “What did he find out? “Nothing.” Pascoe did not plan to discuss with his wife al the poisons that Patrick Aldermann kepr in his greenhouse. There was no proof that he had used them on anything bur insects. There was no proof that Elgood's experiences withthe desk lamp and the ‘garage door were anything but accidents “Tl have to ell Elgood he's imagining things’ Pascoe said. “He's een lying inthe sun too long at his holiday coteage.” “All the same,’ Ellie said, ‘Flgood Ceramics doesn’t seem a end Daphne's 2Deadbeade very healthy place ro work. Al those sudden deaths. This child is wet, by the way.” “Only ewo deaths we know about. Is your turn to change Rose. I'm waiting fora phone eal fom the office.” ‘Don's let Andy Dalziel work you so hard!" “He's a good policeman,’ Pascoe said seriously. “He knows ‘what he's doing, oF I hope he doest Anyway, he's going to a «conference in London, and I expect this stupid business about Aldermann will be over bythe time he gets back.” “Well said El makes it rather awkward for me ifmy husband i investigating, ‘my new friend's husband.” ‘She picked Rose up and rook her upstairs. As she went out of the toom, the telephone rang, Pascoe picked it up, spoke a few swords, and then listened eacefully. “Tasked them eo check for me,’ he told Ellie when she eame back downstairs. “There has been one more death at Elgood Ceramics. A man called Burke fll off ladder outside is home. Accidental death the report said. No suspicious circumstances ‘He was assistant co Eagles, the chief accountant.” “And Aldermann gor thar job?" “Yes. doesn’t mean anything, ofcourse, but I'l ask Flyood about it By the way, when ate you seeing Daphne Alderman agai fit does continue, hope you'll tell me, It ‘We're having coffee omoerow. Why?” “Nothing, What's she like?” ‘Pleasant. Lively. Very traditional middle-class atitudes, of course, but she’s not stupid. “Areractive? “Oh, yes. Attractive al ight. Rather sexy, rally.” CHAPTER 5 “Forget I ever came to see you" Next afternoon Pascoe went to see Elgood in his office. He found him eating a sandwich a his desk, looking rushed and "Had your lunch? Elgood asked him. ‘Lucky mant Can'etalk 10 you for long. Got meeting to goto.” “These are tough times in business,’ Pascoe said “Yes, Look, I beginning ro feel ve been abit soft, coming to ee you. [should have thoughe about fst. Lasthing want is policemen all over the office, aking people questions. I got a bie upsct the other day, that’s all” Pascoe said nothing. Then he put a bag down on Elgood!'s desk. "Your lamp,’ he said. “We've checked it. And the garage door. There's no proof there was any criminal action. No proof there wasnt either. “I see. Looks as if ve made abit of «foo! of myself, doesn’t {tf Thanks for calling, Inspector." “One more thing. A man called Burke used to work here, dda’ he” “Yes, What about i?" “He fell off ladder and broke his neck, didn’ he? And then Patrick Aldermann got his job. Looks abit suspicious.” “Doesn't mean a thing,’ Elgood said. “An accident. And anyway, ic was four years agot Well, 'm a busy man, and aPascoe fone Elgood eating zanduich ti desk 26 “Forget ever came 0 suppose you are too, Arleast I've given Andy Dail somerhing, to laugh about." Pascoe was about 1 leave the office, when he caught sight of a photograph on the wall. Ekgood was in the centre of i, ‘confident smile on his fee. Among the names underneath the photo was Aklermana. “Who's thae? Pascoe asked. ‘Any His great-uncle,” Elgood said. ‘Eddie Aldermann. A great man, was Fale. Very good accountant. Could have been very rich, but he spent tall on that big house, Rosemont. His wife, Florence, wanted the hig house, and Eddie wanted the garden, and that’s where the money wen.” tion to our Patick? “Any children?” No. "So they lef the house to Patrick?” "No. Ie went to Flo Aldermann’s niece, Penny Highsmith Nice girl, was Penny. Paric’s her som ‘So she's Penny Highsmith and he's Patrick Aldermann How is that? “Ob, Patrick thought the sun shone out of Eddie,’ Elgood said. ‘Change his 1 second Eadie, Well, he can grow roses allright, bt he's not the accountant Eddie was, not by a long way." eto Aldermann, didn't he? Wanted to be “Yet you gave him a job?” “Why nor? For Eddie's sake. Patrick was working for a ‘company in Harrogate fora bit, bur then he left. He didn't ind «anew job too easly. I dhnk myself he was living on his spending most of his time on those gardens of his, The job with us was only temporary, but chen Cheis Burke uncle's money died, so Patrick took his place.”Deadheads “Buc he isn’ a great success? “He doesn't do too badly’ Elgood sa though. He isn’t really interested. People like him. He has charm, has Parick. Look, I must go now. Forget ever came to see you. Forget what I said about Patrick Aldermann. You understand me, don't you? Just drop i! Pscoe was eft alone. Ashe walked out ofthe building tll dark man went through che door just ahead of him. He stopped to getinto acat, and Pascoe noticed the beautifully shaped rose hhe wore in his buttonhole. I was a most unssual pinky-blue colour. Surely, this had to be Patrick Alderman, [As Pascoe passed the car, he exchanged greetings with the ‘man, who then said, Can I give you a lift” ‘No, thanks,’ Pascoe replied, ‘I've got my own car here. Excuse me, but I can’t help looking at your rose, What a fascinating colour! "Do you like it the man said, ‘e's called Blue Moon Please take ie’ “Oh, Leouldn'” “Why not? Blue Moon means improbabilty. We all need a litle improbabiliey in ie, don’t we? We must find the courage 1 reach out and take what life fers us” He put the rose in Pascoe’s hand. CHAPTER 6 Shaheed Singh investigates Police Cadet Shaheed Singh wasina diffcul situation. Walking pase che shops on his way to the Police Staion, he had met 3 couple of his old schoolfriends. They seemed pleased vo see him and, as they had no jobs, they had plenty of time ro ask him about his, and to admire his uniform. The trouble was, the group had grown bigger, some silly games had started, and now they had taken his hat, and everyone was trying it on and laughing. He wanted to be friendly, but he also wanted his hat back, and he dide't know how co gett. “Excuse me, Officer’ s woman's clear voice ext through the Jaughter."Can you help me, please? 'm looking forthe Chantry Coffee House. Can you direct me to it? Are you going that way yourself?” “Yes, of cours,’ Singh said. He held our his hand, and someone gave him his hat. He pu it on carefully ‘When they had walked a short distance, hesaid, “Thank you, Mas Pascoe. Theyre not bad lads, you know. They ust haven’ got anything ese to do.” “You're luckier than they ate li said. “You found a job” “Oh, [ could have worked in my dad’s shop,’ Singh said. T thought I'd rather be in the police.” “And are you enjoying i” »Deadbeads “Te gets bit boring sometimes. 'm ambitious, Mrs Pascoe. wane to do really well and gee promoted fas.” He stopped as they reached the Coffee Howse, and he could see Mrs Alderman waiting for her inside. Ie did not surprise hhim thar she and Mrs Pascoe were friends. To him che two ‘women seemed very similar ~ confident, middleclass women who never had to worry about things ike money. This thought ‘would probably have annoyed Ellie, who considered that she was much more modem and progressive than Daphne. Police Cadet Singh walked back to the station, thinking about Mrs Alderman. He could not understand why Sergeant ‘Wield had wanted to talk to her for so long about her ear. He had no idea that Wield was interested in Patrick Alderman, ‘When he arrived atthe station, the frst person he saw was David Bradley, park to examine the damaged cats. "Got a moment? Singh asked bir, “What's up, young Shady? Bradley asked, “That Mes Alderman. ‘The one whose car was damaged, Wield’s been asking her questions.” “Wield? Why's he intrested? There's nothing to say about hher. A man called us. He was angry because his car had been scratched. She didn’t seem to care. Just wanted to jump inthe car and go, withoue speaking (0 us.” “Didn't she have to stop and putall her shopping in the back of the car?” “Shopping? She dida’t have any. What's all his about, young Shady? Are you after Mr Dalriel’s job aleeady? “Just trying to learn how it's done, Singh said, ‘Did you say all the cars had been parked chere by nine? 1 af the men who had been sent t0 the ear x0 Shaheed Singh investigates “Yes. Allright, Sherlock Holmes? Is that enough for you?” “Thanks, Singh said. He wished Bradley woulda'e tak co him as if he were an annoying child. Nobody ese was treated like that, Did they do ic to him juse because he was black? He ‘would show Bradley! He would show chem al just how good at his job he could bet “IF Elgood says forget, then forget it,’ Dalziel “Tm sorry, si’ Pascoe told him, “but I feel there's something wrong. What's strangest of al isthat Egood told us Aldermann hnad killed Bulmer and Eagles, but e's sure Burke's death was an accident. "Dick willhavea reason, beieveme;’ Dail said. "Remember, Ines no fool. He's playing some game, We'll find out sooner oF Tater what it "Well, {didn’t have much luck,’ Pascoe went on, ‘but I did ‘meet Alderman, He gave mea blue rose” "He showed mehis roses, 0,’ said Wield, coming in quietly. “He was difcule ro talk to at frst, but he realy came to life ‘when he talked about the roses.” “Moce interested in the roses than in hie family?" Pascoe asked, "Plenty of men are more interested in thie hobbies than their Samilies,' Dalziel sai sharply. l's not a crime ye.” "He really loves those roses,” Wield said, "You should see him eadheading them, sit. He's gota special sharp knife. He ussit 0 dally.” “Tope you're not suggesting that just because he cuts the heads off roses with his nice shiny knife, he does che same co people!” aDeadheads “No, of course not st agreed Wield. “So why should we waste time on this business?” “Curiosity, sit" Pascoe sad immedistely. “Curiosity?” “Yes. want to know how this man, who isn’t very good at his job, has gor so far. He may be about ro join the Board of Directors ofan important company.” "Halfthe people in top jobs don’t deserve them,’ Dalziel said, “Listen, he sounds like Me Average to me. Dull, ordinary; wife and two children, nie house, nice garden. I expect he even bi a dear old mother.” “Tean tell you abour that lady," Pascoe said. “Mrs Penelope Highsmith. Lives in London.” “Highsmith? Why not Alderman? Did she marty again? “She's never been married. Patrick chose to take his great- uncle's name. She's never told anyone who Patrick's Father Dalziel didn’t seem to be listening. Suddenly he “Peany Highsmith! Did she live here?” "Yes, Patrick went ro schoo! here” “Tknow hee! Izemember her wel, She was a grand girl, fll of fan, Ie muse be her! “The look in his eye told Pascoe that he had happy memories of Penny Highsmith. A smile lit wp his fat face ‘Tiltell you what,’ Dale! said. ‘ve got to got this bloody conference in London. lle away couple of days. You can see what youcan do with this business whileI'm away. Don’t waste time on it though. Now go away. I've gor things to do.” (CHAPTER 7 How Daphne's father died Daphne Aldermann was amused to find chat Ellie and Rose visited the Chantry Coffee House as often as the Market Cafe “The coffees better her,’ Elie said. “Bue I'm sure you disapprove of the people, don’t you?" Daphne said, looking round atallehe middle-aged, middle-class ladies “Tm not sue I ike crowds of any kind of people Elie said. “One ata time theyre different” “When you're inthe church, as my father was, Daphne said, ‘you have to accept all kinds of people. And they usually bang, ‘on your door asking for help just at dinner time!” “Your poor father, Ellie std, “Or do yo feel sorry for your ‘mother, who had cooked the dinner, and then had to se it go cold?” Daphne smiled." suppose you want to suggest my mother had a miserable life in 2 male-centred family. In fast | did the ‘cooking. Mummy died when I as just child ‘Well Ellie said, ‘people shouldn'thaveo ask the church for help. The state should provide for their needs.” Daphne laughed. ‘Come ont You don't know a lot about human nature, do you? Everyone knew Daddy was kind man, and be had plenty of money. Mummy eame from a rich amily, you see" 3Deadbeads ‘She looked sad, so Ellie said cheerfully, ‘At least chat meant he could afford some help in the house after you got macried.” *No.’ Daphne looked close to tears ‘He was dead by that ime, It was awful. He had to go to Little Leven to inspect the hutch, hecause the tower needed repairing. A stone fell on him and killed him,” 'm so sorry,’ Ellie said gently. “What a terrible thing to happen ‘She wondered whether to put an arm around Daphne, but was uncertain what to do. Fortunately, at that moment Rose plunged her hand into a chocolat cake, and Dap was forgotten in che confusion. They talked for another hour before arranging to meet again the following week. ‘sad story Elland Peter Pascoe had alate dinner that night: He had been delayed by another burglary aca local country hows, while she had a crying baby co keep her busy. ‘Over dinner she told him about Rose's adventure with the chocolate cake, and went on to talk about Daphne “She was only seventeen when she met Patrick. He was an accountant in Harrogate, and did some work for hee father’s church. When they decided to get married, her father wasn hhappy about it. Thought she was too young. Then he died. 1 think she still feels guilty for upsetting him just before his eath” How did he dic?" “The church killed him’ Elle said mysteriously, “Overwork? “No. A stone from Little Leven church tower fell on him.” Pascoe whistled. ‘People seem to drop dead right and lef PT How Daphne's father died round Patrick Alderman, don’t they? he said, “Intersting information! You're doing well!” “Now look" Ellie said, Daphne's my friend. Iwas just having nice gossip, not acting asa police informer. thought you told me all the business about Patrick murdering people was just “Ithinktis, Pascoe said. ‘But do you mean you woulda’ tell me if you knew something that suggested he wae a murderer? ‘sudden ery rom Rose pur an end to cheiediseusion ofthis imteresting but puzzling question.CHAPTER 8 Daphne's sectet Shaheed Singh was atthe tp ofthe multi-storey ea park where Daphne Aldermann’s car had been damaged. Ever since his visi ro Rosemont with Sergeant Wield, he had been thinking about the ease. He wanted s0 badly to do something right, to bea succes asa policeman, Most of his old Schoolfriends had no obs. He supposed he was lucky, but at the moment he didn’t fee it. Important men like Dalvil nd Pascoe never noticed him, Sergeant Wield scemed to think he was a fool, and some ofthe others — well, he was sure they disliked him just because he was black He looked at is watch. Time to go. Wedderburn would be waiting for him for more boring traffic contro. Acthat moment the it doors opened and five youths gor out. He knew two of them, Jonty Marsh and Mick Feaver, They had been in his class at school. “Hello, Shady” they yelled. What's going on? “Someone's been damaging cars’ he told them, thinking ‘quickly. We've go ro catch them, “We! laughed Jonty.“There'sonly youhere. You'linevercatch anyone!” "No, Singh said seriously. “You don'e understand. The others are hidden, waiting, 've been sent out to have a word with you, because I said I knew you at school.” ”Deadheads He wasn't sure if Jonty believed him, but Mick and the ‘others looked frightened and guily. Singh had suspected his old friends. Now he was becoming sure that they had done the damage. He went on, half proud of himself, half ashamed of his power over these boys "The things there's more co ths than damage roa few cars. ‘There's one car we're very interested in. IF you have any information about t, you'll be helping us, and we always try to bbe nice ro people who do that.” He described Daphne's car to them. What happened next was better than anything he could have expected. I righet™ “Blonde hair, yeah tasty piece she was!” "We know whar she was getting inco his ear for! In a few minutes Shaheed Singh discovered that Daphne Aldermann had parked her ear and got straight into another ‘one. Iwasa big car, a BMW, and there was a man atthe whee “Yeah, we saw hes CHAPTER 9 Is Patrick Aldermann a thief? Pecer Pascoe also found he couldn'e stop thinking about the Alderman cas, It was nonsense he was sure, but ie fascinated him. Elzood mast be suffering fom overwork, andhis imagination was working overtime. Pascoe knew all about stress, and the peculiar things it did to the mind. He had no time to spare for this nonsense he told himself, as he picked up the phone and asked for Detective Inspector Skelwith of Harrogate police. He asked him to find out ifthey had any information about Patrick. Aldeemann, who used to work as an accountant in Hareogate “TI try.) Skelwith promised. “I wanted co talk to you, anyway. I looks asf the burglars you've had in your ares have ben at work over here. “Does it? Pascoe said. Why don’t I come over and see you is afternoon? He spent an hour ar the burgled house with Skelwich, ‘comparing the methods used with his own burglaries, and later, ‘over tea atthe office, came the reward Pascoe had hoped for. “Alderman worked for Bailey and Capstick,’ Skelwith told him. “He los his ob, i seems, and he was lcky it ended there My advice, if you want the whole story, is to go and see old Capstick, He's retired, now. His address is Church House, Lite Leven.” 9°Deadbeads Ie Patrick Aldermann a thie Herbert Capstck seemed pleased to meet Pascoe, The old man lay in a wheelchaie, looking out of the window at his pretty arden, heyond which Pascoe could see a church, This most be the church where Daphne’ father had heen killed. Tea was served by 2 housckeeper, and Pascoe explained carefully that his enquiries were not really official; he only wanted to satisly his own curiosity. ‘Any information you give me, he said tothe old man, ‘will of course remain confidential.” Herbert Capstick looked at him thoughtfully for a moment, and then smiled. ‘Very well, Mr Pascoe. I will tell you about Patcick. He came here as a young, newly qualified accountant. He was quiet, not particularly good at his job, bur pleasant ‘enough, knew his great-uncle Edward very well, He was. very successful accountant. He made enough money to buy that old house, Rosemont, and rebuild char wonderful garden, Patrick loved Eadie, loved ro tlk about him, although he had only met him a few times, You know he changed his name from Highsmith co Aldermann? He had Bad's love of roses, t00. The old man pointed out into the garden “Look at those roses Eddie planted some for me, more than thirty years ago. I've got just one of those lefe now. Patrick replaced theres for me when they go too old. Roses grow old ‘Mr Pascoe, just lke people. Patrick sid che old must give way place. Look a them, tothe new, but the new must deserve th Aren't they beautiful” They were, Pascoe could see, lovely roses, but he was eager for Capstick to get on with his story “Why did Patrick leave Bailey and Capstick? he asked, “The old man looked sad 0 This mast be the church where Daphne's father bad ber le. aDeadheads “Heewas dishonest. Quite unexpected. A terrible shock tome. ‘You se, there was an old lady, Mrs McNeil. She had a lot of money, and she wanted Pattick to manage it for her. He's very charming, you see, and she trusted him. She thought he was wonderful. Then one day he was not in the office when she called. There was a lor of flu around at the time, and he had caught it, Mes McNeil wanted something, and I had co look at the books. Then I discovered what he had been doing. For three or four years, Mr Pascoe, he had heen carefully and steadily stealing her money.” “He paused, ad shook his old head soerowfly ‘Thad to sel him what [had found. He didn't deny it, just stened to me quietly" “Didn't you go tothe police?” “First I had to cell Mes McNeil’ Capstic said. “With her lawyer present, ofcourse, But had no opportunity. Patrick was soon well again, but Mrs MeNeil hd also got the fu. She was an old lady, and ie was enough to kill her. So she died, you sec, before I cold tell her. Pascoe kept his face expressionless “But what about her will nd the relations who would have inherited? “She had left her money to Patrick Aldermann,’ Capstick said. “The only person he had cheated was himself. In the end, 1 decided there was no point in going ro the police. [rold him to Jeave, and Isai I intended never to see him again. I miss him sometimes, he added sadly. ‘I should like ro talk about roses with him again. ‘As Pascoe got up to leave, he said, "That must he the church where the Reverend Somerton waskilled. Daphne Aldermann’s father.” “Yes! Capstick said. ‘Oliver Somerton was a good man. A 2 Patrick Alderman a thief? Tiel too serious in his ways, bur a very good man.” "You knew him? OF course, your company took care of his church accounts.” "Yes," Capstick said, ‘bur not just the church aecounes, We looked after his own money, roo, He was quite a rich man, a6 ‘expect you know." ‘As Pascoe drove away, he could not help imagining the scene, Patrick Aldermann meeting the pretty young daughter, ain then Inter finding some excuse to look at the account books te see how much money her father had. Back at che station, he was surprised to find Sergeant Wield ‘waiting for him with Shaheed Singh. “Police Cader Singh has something interesting totell you, sie Wield sadCHAPTER 10 Dalziel meets Penny Highsmith Andrew Daliel was bored. He didn’t much ike conferences. Ie vas allright mecting old friends and having a few drinks with them, but apart from that he hadn't found much ro interest him. ‘Onis second afzernaon in Landon he took a street map and set out to find Penelope Highsmith’s flat. He found the house, and wandered around for a while, keeping an eye on the front door. He was lucky. He was just passing the building for the third time when a taxi stopped just outside and a woman got ‘out, He recognized her at once. Tall and welldressed, with thick black curly hair, she looked much younger than he had ‘expected, He stopped, a fin sudden surprise, “Penny? he called. “Is it really you, Penny Highsmith?” “Yes, the woman said “Who the hell are you?" “Andy Dalziel, he said. ‘Do you remember me? “Ofcourse. Weren't you inthe police? You've puton weight.” ‘Just a bit Dalziel said, smiling. ‘'m down here for a conference." ‘Still a policeman” ory “Sail married? aa He waited, “Coming infor a cup of te, then’ she said 45Deadheads Once inside her comfortable flat, he relaxed in a deep armnchaie and watched her as she moved around, making the She was much as he'd known her years before; warm, independent, cheerfl ~ and very attractive. I's not fui, he thought, P¥e got old and fat, and she hast. "Why did you leave Yorkshire? he asked. ‘Talways intended to come back to London,’ she rald him. “1 only went to Yorkshire to ook after Aunt Florence for a shore while, Then she died, and I gothe house and the money. By that time my son was at school. He loved Yorkshire.” ‘Ishe still here?" “Oh yes. Sill at Rosemont. He married a nice girl. They've got two children. Igo up and visit sometimes, just for a day or ‘two. I prefer my lite at hereto that grat big house.” ‘I'm surprised you didnt sel i” "T nearly di” she said. ‘Patek was just about to finish school and stat work, e would have heen a good time to make “What happened to stop you?” “The buyer died,” Penny Highsmith sid. CHAPTER 11 Who was Daphne meeting? “You must tell us their names,” Wield said. ‘Shaheed Singh fle eapped, ashamed of being disloyal to his ‘old friends, yet desperate to succeed in is ob. “Why? he asked. ‘I choughe you were just interested in that Mrs Alderman,” Let us decide who or what we've interested in,’ Wield thundered. “Your jb isto obey orders!” ‘Why docs he hate me so much? Singh thought miserably. In fact, Wield fel sory forthe boy. Bur Pascoe had spoken to Dalziel on the telephone, and Dalziel had decided the boy must be questioned. “You've got to cell us,’ Wield said more gently, “Maybe it won's beso serious for them not if they can help. Singh looked a litle happier “Tonly know two of them,’ he said. “They were in my class at school. Mick Feaver and Jonty Marsh “Feaver and Marsh,’ Pascoe sai, ‘Do we know anything about them already?” “Feaver's got no record,” Wield said. “Marsh has been in trouble once or twice. You'll know his brother Arthur. Gor a record as long as your arm. Stealing from houses, mainly. “OK, Pascoe said. ‘I'l speak to Marsh fist. Bring him in.” ”Deadheads Wield watched quietly, admiring Pascoe's skill ashe led the boy through his memories of what he had seen in the ca park, ‘Marsh remembered the BMW clearly, and its colour ~ da blue “You'reagood witness," Pascoe said, ‘Now, are you suse that the car the woman got out of was che cat that go scratched?” “Oh, yeah,’ Marsh said. ‘Dead certain.” nothing, bur lee che boy realize for himself that his guilt was now clear. "Next, he talked to Mick Feaver, Mick remembered more details about the BMW. He also admitted that he had scratched Daphne's ca. Finally, Pascoe saw the 1wo boys together. "You have admitted damaging four cars, he told them. “This is serious, and we shall keep a record of i. However, you are both known to be of good character. One of my own officers cellsmeso. Atthe moment we shall gona further with this case, Please understand that you are very lucky, and keep out of ‘rouble in future. Is that clear?” “Yes, sit” The boys were eager to escape. ‘When they had gone, Pascoe told Wield, "You kno. something very interesting about cis dark blue BMW.” “Whats that, sir “Tknow who i belongs to. Lhad to look a it recently because a garage door had fallen on it.” "You mean it’s Elgood's? “Yes. I've checked the description. I's definitely his” ‘Which means ‘Which means ~ knowing Dick Elgood’s reputation with ‘women = we can be sure of one thing. The day before he came there's 6 Who was Daphne meeting? to tellus Patrick Aldermann was trying 10 murder him, he'd been off at his holiday cortage, making love to Aldermann’s wifet(CHAPTER 12 End of an affair Dick Elgood was totally relaxed, floating on his back in the I he eased his head, he could look across the beach to his holiday cottage, which stood near the edge ofa cli ‘Twenty years ago, when he had bought the cottage, it had nor been so nea the edge, but every winter the sea brought more ofthe cliff crashing down onto the beach, Elgood did not worry about that. He had no child to leave the cottage to. He had bought it cheaply. He was rather fascinated by its impermanence and the way the coast was always changing. Here he could elax, with a woman friend or alone, Today he ‘wanted o be alone, He had had to deal with a difficult meeting theday before. Times were hard, and some of his workers were to lose their jobs, bur he had managed the situation well, and ‘now this sunny day of peace was his reward, (Or perhaps not. A ear was stopping by the cortage. He thought for a moment of hiding but knew he must face her. It was Daphne Alderman, He swam to che beach, “Hello, love, he said. "This is «nice surprise. How did you know I was here “Patrick was talking to Eric Quayle on the phone lastnight. He told him.” 50 End ofan affair ‘Acar iworstopping bythe cottage esas Dope Alderman. stDeadheads ‘Talking, were hey, Elgood thought. Perhaps Patrick thought {Quayle could get him onto the Bosrd. Good thing he had made ‘hat phone call o London yesterday. That should put a stop to Aldermana’s lle plan, He smiled at Daphne. ‘Come up to the cottage, love, and! havea cup of coffee, How long can you stay?” ‘As they climbed the cliff path, Daphne said, ‘Doesn't it frighten you, the sea geting closer every year? I's pretty here, but it's so impermanent:” "Not like Rosemont, you mean? But even Rosemont wan't last for ever. Nothing will. 1 like change. It doesn’t worry Daphne made the coffee while he got dressed, As soon as they sat down, she said, ‘Dick, I came to tll you that it's over between ws. “He wasn’t surprised. She had never been really interested in him, he could tel, This was no disappointment, and he found it easy to smile and say, ‘Well, we're stil friends. We've ‘one. Don’t fel guilty about it.” His affair with Daphne had been unplanned and unexpected. He had met her when Aldermann joined the company as ce, He was c habit than because she attracted him, but he found her eager 0 meet him to discus her husband's job and salary. He supposed tha they were short of money. On several occasions he took her ‘ou for lunch, Then Burke died, and Patrick took his job. Later after Eagles had died, Elgood saw that Patrick hoped for a place on the Board, and knew that he didn’t want him there, He was honest with Daphne, teling her how he fl. Ie was later the same day assstane ro Che ming co her, more from 2 End ofan affair that he told Patrick, ‘If you ever get a place on the Board, itl be over my dead body!” Dick Elgood did nor expect to hear from Daphne again, but to his surprise she had telephoned, asking co see him. He had already planned a visit o his cottage nextday, sohe invited her to come with him. He was not sure she would come until the moment she had driven into the ear park and jumped ino his All the way to the coast she talked nervously about Patric, He stil seemed toe so sure of success. It was a if he knew the furure, knew for certain that he would be allright and thar he would always have Rosemont ‘A few drinks a the cottage relaxed her, but she still looked worried and nervous when Elgood finally fook her in his arms. "Thenext morning back at home the garage door had crashed down, narrowly missing him. ‘Now Daphne said, ‘Tm really not the type to have an affair like this. Thad to see you o make you understand. Hflt so awful when the police came ro ask questions about my cat. 1 kept remembering those boys in the carpark and wondering if chey| remembered me.” “The police were interested in your husband, not you, lgood ‘thought, but he cold hardly tll her that! "muse go in a minuce. 1 feel beter now we've talked, Daphne said. ‘I worry about such silly things. You know, recently 've met a woman and become friendly with her. She happens to be a policeman's wife. ike her alot. She's really bright and independent, But I find myself waking up in the middle of the night thinking she's been told to spy on me!” "Have you told Patrick about your new fiend Elgood asked. soDeadheads “Oh, yes. He wasn’t bothered. He just told me to ask her and her husband to dinner. “What's hee name?” “Elle Pascoe. ‘To Daphne's horror, Elgood put his head in his hands and made a strange noise “Are you all right" she asked in alarm, “I wish [know he said ‘Sit down again, Daphne. I've got something to tell you." CHAPTER 13 ast deaths and a future burglary Dalziel laughed loudly when Pascoe told him over the phone about Elgood and Daphne Alderman, "Te-doesn'e surprise me,’ he suid. ‘t's just lke Dick. Typical Gives Aldermann a morive, though. And it explains why Dick seems so sure Aldermann’s trying to kill him.” "Te surprised me,’ Pascoe suid. Ellie's ge to know Daphne ‘Aldermann quite well, and she doesn’t seem the type." “Ask your Elle what she ean find out about the Aldermann ‘woman,’ Datel said. “Telon’ think she'd like tif asked hee wo spy on her fiend si “Why ever not? Daltel asked, sounding some more information for you,” he went on. ‘Another death lose to Aldermann. Somcone who wanted ro buy Rosemont from Penay Highsmith about the time Patrick lee school. Edgar Masson's the Aldermanns' family lawyer. He could tll you the details” “Anything else? “Yes. Ask him about Florence Aldermann’s will Pm so Dloody bored with this conference, I've been out on the case instead. Irseems Aunt Flo died without making a wil, Anothér thing. Daphne's father had plenty of money to leave, but he dida’t leave icall wo her. If Alderman expected to get rich that ‘way, he was disappointed! ssDeadheads ase deaths anda future burglary “Td best be going now,” he went on. ‘Somebody's giving & talk on the par policewomen can pla in community relations." ud you don't want to miss si” said Pascoe, surprised ‘Don't be daf, lad. I'll e nishing soon, and the foo! who's ving it has left his office open. I'm using his phone. He's locked his whisky away, though. Aufl what suspicious minds some people have.” “Why is Andy so interested inthis case?” Pascoe sid later ro Wield. ‘Before he wene ro London, be told us not to waste time ‘omit. Now he's all oft, Why?” “Because he’s met Mrs Highsmith?” Wield suggested. ‘Ts he ‘going to see her again soon?" “I think he iy Pascoe replied. ‘Come on. Lee's ake a good Took at what we aleeady know. ‘Wield listened, as Pascoe scarted to go through thelist of 1960, Mes Florence Aldeemann died of a heat attack. There are no suspicious circumstances, unless we count the fact that there was no will, so Penny Highsmith inheried everything. A few years later, Penny tried o sell Rosemont, bur the buyer died. I'm seeing her lawyer, Masson, later today to talk about that. “Now we jump forwards co 1971. The Reverend Oliver ‘Somerton. Daphne Aldermann’s father. He died in an accident at Little Leven church. There were no witnesses, which is always suspicious, but we know nothing else “On to 1976. Mes Catherine MeNeil, She died of fla, but we shouldn't be surprised hy tha. She was an old lady.” “She's the one Aldermann had been robbing, isn't she?" Wield said. “The one who left him her money?” 56 “That's het. It seems that Aldermann himself had fh and hile he was away from the offic his boss found out about his Titel games with her money.” ‘So Aldermann murdered her by sneezing over her and giving. ber fla,’ Wield said “The sneeze as murder weapon. | must say it's an original sor of rime." Le’ leave the jokes to Mr Dalie, shall we, Sergeant said Pascoe, and the two men laughed "1979, Pascoe went on. ‘Christopher Burke died, the first of three of Elgood’s employees to meet a sudden death.” "Fell of ladder, didn't he?” Wield ssi. "Yes. Some workmen were doing some repaits ro his house. Itscemshe came home in the middle of theaftcrnoon and ran up the ladder to see how the repairs were going. His foot slipped, and he fll and broke his neck.” "Where were the workmen? Weren' there any witnesses?” "No. Ithad been raining, so the workmen had gone off todo anindoor job somewhere else. Burke's wife had gone our. When she eame home, she found her husband lying there dead.” “Running up a ladder inthe mide ofthe afternoon, ate it had been raining. Why wasnt he at his office? Do we know whether he had been drinking?” "No, Pascoe said, "but if he was drunk, it might explain ‘everything. We ought to look into it Sergeant “Now,' he went on, Bulmer, Elgood’s financial director, crashed his car after the ‘office party last Christmas. He was definitly drunk, m afraid, No one elke as involved, and there were no witnesses. “we come to the fnal ro deaths, Brian =Deadheads Timothy Eagles, the chief accountant, had a heart attack, and. died a his desk. He was found next morning, sitting there with hhiscoat on. He must have been geting ready to go home, when the was taker ill” “Alderman was his assistant, wasn’t he? said Wield “Shared an office with him?” “Yes, said Pascoe. What are you suggesting, Sergeant?” ‘Wield said, ‘Imagine this. k's evening. Aldermann is about to leave the office. Everyone else has gone home. He finds Eagles at his desk, having his hear atack. He doesn't call for help. He just closes the door on him, goes home and leaves him to di Pascoe let out 4 long whistle. “Very cold-blooded. You've met Alderman. Do you think he could do a thing like that?" “Tes easce than murder, Wield sid Pascoe sighed deeply. I don't know, Sergeant. Is this all what Darel would call “a load of dafe rubbish”, or is there really something going on? I just don’ know.” Police Cadet Shaheed Singh wondered what Mick Feaver ‘wanted. When the hoy had fst come upto him, as he was going into the Market Café, he had expected anger. Now, sceing the ‘expression on Mick's face and the ext ons lip, he fle sorry for him, ‘Like a cup of tea?” Singh said. He would be meeting ‘Wedderburn in the caféin ve minutes, so there was just time to hhear whar Mick wanted first. The boy followed him silenly through the door. Mrs Pascoe was there, Singh noticed, but she was on her own this time. “Look, Shady, Mick said, as they sat down with theiecups of tea, ‘thanks for saying what you did yesterday.” 8 Past deaths anda future burglary ‘Saying what I did?” “Yeah. Thar Pascoc, he std someone had putin a good word for us. knew it must be you. “Thae’s al ight.” “Nothing's going to happen about scratching those car, is ‘No! “We both admitted i,” Mick Feaver ssid. Pascoe knows it wasall ofus. That Jonty Marsh, he wanted to say i wasjust me, to let me be the only one to get into trouble. You should hear har heealls you, 100. He says you pretend tobe fiend, then. ‘go straight back to the Police Station and tll chem everything you've heard.” ‘He that what he says?" “That black pig, he calls you. That black pig.” Singh looked down at his tain silence. These had been his friends, What a distance there was between them now. Sualdenly he wished he were in his father’s shop, among the familiar sounds and smells of home. “Look what they did to me last night,’ Mick went on, ‘ouching his lip. "They don'e dare lay a finger on you, but they aren't aftaid to havea go at me.” Singh looked up. Mrs Pascoe was just going out ofthe door, the noticed, and Wedderburn was ouside, talking someone in the market “Twve only got moment,’ he suid. “Is there something you ‘wane co ell me? “Mick Feaver spoke in a sudden us, ‘'s Jonty Marsh. He's been boasting about his brother, Arthur. Says he’s go a really big job on. Says Arthur's raking him along, too.