Where Peacocks Scream

by Valerie Mendes

  “So don’t just stare at it… Tell me what it says!”

  “It’s been typed,” Daniel said slowly. “It might not be from Jasper at all. You know what a con man he is.”

  “Course it’s from him, dunderhead! Who else could have possibly got hold of that painting?… Put me out of my misery and tell me what it says!”

  Daniel swallowed.

  Then, carefully, as if he could hardly believe his eyes, he read out the words:

  Danny-boy –

  Gave you a bit of a rough time. Sorry.

  The painting is genuine. It’s worth a lot of dosh. I’ve had it for years but now it’s yours. Enjoy!

  I’m off out of here. Finally, it’s goodbye and there’ll be no coming back. All my plans are in place. By this time tomorrow I shall be on the other side of the world.

  I hope I shall always remain your

  Uncle Frank

  Master of Surprise