‘That’s what we would like to know.’ There had been no indication that the contents of the chest of drawers or wardrobe had been disturbed, but this did not prevent Kershaw from saying, ‘Should you discover that anything is missing, please let me know at once. And now, if it’s convenient, I’d like to speak to Joanna.’
Subdued and still upset, Joanna repeated what she had said on Saturday and then suddenly asked, ‘Have you found the hat and scarf? Or the man?’
‘No, but we’re still looking and questioning neigh-bours. So far we’ve only spoken to one. It’s unfortunate that most of the people living nearby were out.’
Joanna nodded. ‘It was a lovely afternoon which probably accounts for that. As you’ve no doubt seen for yourself, most of the houses have been converted into flats. This is one of the few houses still occupied by a family.’
In reply to Kershaw’s further questions, Joanna told him that Ralph had never entertained or been entertained by any of the neighbours.
‘I doubt that he knew their names. When writing, he almost became a recluse.’ Joanna briefly said that Ralph had written two series for television about aristocratic families and their homes, and then went on to biographies. ‘Isabel has been absolutely marvellous. Even before he was ill she was running here and there for him. Although he was my uncle and I shouldn’t say it, he was a miserable and ungrateful bugger. Never a word of praise or a “thank you”. I was always glad that Elspeth continued to live here; she stood up to Ralph.’
Kershaw knew that Joanna was head receptionist at a well-known hotel, hence her concise statement, and now said, ‘Thank you, Joanna. That was most interesting and has given us an insight into the McGuire household. One further question, did your uncle have any enemies? Was there anyone who disliked him so intensely that they would—?’
‘No,’ interrupted Joanna and then relented. ‘I suppose it’s possible. If I can think of anyone I’ll certainly let you know.’
A few minutes later, Detective Inspector Kershaw greeted Duncan Sinclair with his usual courteous manner, at the same time aware that Detective Sergeant Small had quickly adjusted his expression of astonishment. Kershaw had also expected an older man and guessed the tall, handsome man to be in his mid-forties. And without wasting time he said, ‘I realise you’ve only recently returned to England and were away from Bristol on Saturday. However, do you know anyone, i.e. Ralph’s visitor, who would wear a hat, scarf and heavy overcoat at this time of year?’
‘No. In fact, I doubt that I can be of any assistance to you at all, Inspector.’ Kershaw then learnt of Duncan’s surprise when Ralph asked him to help with the necessary research on his return to England. ‘I was even more surprised, when I met Isabel in the library, to hear that she knew nothing about this arrangement. I was angry that Ralph didn’t have the courtesy to tell her.’
‘But despite this, you were and remained on good terms with Ralph for the short time between your return and departure for Birmingham?’
‘It was only a few days, but yes. Ralph was keen that I should interview more of Leo’s contemporaries.’ Duncan then learnt that the empty bottle in the bathroom cabinet was being tested for fingerprints and that the scene of crime team had nearly finished.
‘It’s been a long…’
Kershaw broke off as a uniformed constable knocked and entered. ‘Excuse me, sir, one of the officers from the house-to-house team would like a word.’ Realising the inspector was unlikely to impart any further information, Duncan headed for the kitchen.
Meanwhile, upstairs, the officer in charge was checking that nothing had been overlooked. In addition to the bedroom and its contents, the bathroom cabinet, wash basin and every other surface had also been dusted for fingerprints. Small plastic envelopes contained various miniscule fibres, and it was hoped that these did not pertain to the bed coverings, chairs, curtains or carpets. It had been ascertained that the room had been kept at an even temperature; so hopefully, the visitor had removed his hat, scarf and coat in which case some evidence of these might be found.
‘We’re not doing very well, are we, sir?’ said Tom.
‘No, but we’ve done enough for today. I’ll just tell Mrs McGuire we’re going.’ During a further conversation, Joanna had told them she was unable to add anything to her previous description. It had been impossible for her to see if the caller had a moustache, beard or had been clean-shaven; neither could she tell them the colour of his hair. He had been taller than her – Joanna guessed about 5’ 10” – but because of the coat, she couldn’t say if he was fat or thin.
However, before Kershaw could reach the kitchen Isabel emerged. ‘Would you like a coffee before you go, Inspector?’
‘No, thank you.’ Kershaw had previously mentioned that he had an appointment to see Peter Hoskins, Ralph’s solicitor, the following morning and now asked, ‘Will you be attending the inquest on Wednesday?’
‘Yes. Joanna will be working but Duncan is coming with us.’
Peter Hoskins greeted Detective Inspector Kershaw and Detective Sergeant Small with a courteous smile. ‘I’m not very happy about giving you the information you require, Inspector. However, you did emphasise that it could help with your enquiries.’
‘It could provide a motive, especially if any of the suspects are in financial difficulties.’
‘You don’t surely think that Mrs McGuire was responsible for her husband’s death?’
‘We’re checking everyone’s alibi.’ Isabel had spent an hour at the library where she had been seen by the head librarian and some of the staff. The time of her arrival and departure had been rechecked and, while Kershaw knew that Ralph had become a tyrant, he doubted that Isabel would think up the ploy which had caused his death. Besides, there was nothing of that particular shade of green in her wardrobe which matched the miniscule fibres.
Kershaw leant back in his chair as Hoskins began. ‘Isabel is the main beneficiary while Elspeth and Joanna receive substantial bequests.’ Then, in reply to Kershaw’s query, ‘There are no other relatives and Ralph wasn’t in favour of leaving money to deserving charities.’
Hoskins’ gaze travelled to Tom and back to Kershaw. ‘Isabel inherits the house, Ralph’s portfolio of stocks and shares, and the residue of the estate which makes her a wealthy widow.’
‘What did you think of Hoskins’ last remark?’ asked Tom as they regained the pavement.
‘Strange, almost as though he disapproves of Isabel’s good fortune. It’s possible Elspeth will be disappointed about the house, but it was left up to Ralph, who has probably left her a reasonable legacy.’ Kershaw indicated a nearby brasserie. ‘Let’s have a coffee break,’ and once they were seated and their order given, he continued, ‘if it wasn’t for Gresham’s statement you could almost think the caller was a figment of Joanna’s imagination. We know she has a good job and is extremely efficient, but we don’t know what her financial situation is. That’s another thing to be checked, also Elspeth’s.’
‘What about the green fibres?’ queried Tom.
‘He, assuming it’s a man, must have taken his coat off, even for a few minutes – it was really warm in that bedroom. Or perhaps he wanted to wash his hands.’ A smiling buxom waitress set down their cappuccinos when the two men smiled their thanks and Kershaw resumed, ‘I’ll continue checking the contents of Ralph’s desk while you carry on reading what has already been written about Adare, and Isabel’s notes.’
Kershaw sipped his coffee appreciatively while Tom asked, ‘Do you really think this is relevant?’
‘I can’t help wondering if Ralph’s death is somehow connected with Adare’s biography. You must admit this caller sounds rather theatrical. He arrives overdressed, almost forces his way in and, without asking, goes up to Ralph’s—’
‘Could it have been a woman?’ interrupted Tom. ‘It’s not as though any physical strength was necessary, and it’s ofte
n women who resort to poison or overdoses. But why?’
Kershaw shrugged. ’We only know of three women and I doubt that Joanna would have recognised Isabel or Elspeth dressed like that. The clothes could have been hired from a fancy dress shop.’ Kershaw stopped abruptly. ‘No, I don’t think that’s really possible. Isabel was seated at the same table all the time she was in the library while Elspeth was wearing a smart suit that afternoon. She wasn’t out all that long, didn’t use the car. However, it would be a useful exercise to check on fancy dress suppliers.’
Half an hour later, Tom replaced the receiver and muttered, ‘No luck but I have had another idea. Perhaps it’s someone connected with the theatre, maybe a person who’s jealous or dislikes Adare and doesn’t want this biography to be written. He could have borrowed the items from the theatre wardrobe. Shall I make enquiries?’
‘No, get someone else to do it. Duncan Sinclair is due and may need to explain what he’s giving you to read.’
‘Don’t worry,’ it’s not as bad as it looks.’ Duncan placed two bulky files in front of Tom and continued, ‘The first file contains a copy of the script,’ and glancing at the inspector, ‘Isabel would like to know when we can move back into the study.’
Kershaw had examined the contents of Ralph’s desk, studied the titles of reference books on the shelves, and photographs of the various people about whom Ralph had written, but in spite of this he said, ‘I’ll come round this afternoon but you can move back tomorrow.’
‘Thank you. However, I doubt that Isabel will feel inclined to work; it’s the inquest in the morning,’ and when there was no immediate response, ‘Elspeth and Isabel were asking about the funeral.’
‘If the coroner agrees that the body can be released they can make the necessary arrangements.’
As anticipated, the inquest was adjourned and the coroner agreed that Ralph’s body could be released for burial. During the proceedings it was established that Ralph could not have reached the bathroom and that the overdose had been administered by person/s unknown.
Kershaw had noted that Isabel had remained calm and Elspeth tense, and watched as they emerged from the coroner’s court followed by Dr Beresford. Duncan Sinclair, who had left earlier, drew up at the kerb as Kershaw approached Isabel and said quietly, ‘You’ll be able to go ahead with the funeral arrangements now, Mrs McGuire.’
‘Yes, but…’ Isabel looked uncertain. ‘We still don’t know what happened. Who the caller was.’
‘That’s what we have to find out.’ As he drove back to the station, Kershaw wondered if Tom had found anything which would help them with their enquiries. Was the caller a man or a woman?
Kershaw’s thoughts then turned to his conversation with Dr Beresford. The doctor had told him that Ralph McGuire had not been prescribed the latest drug for Alzheimer’s but had been taking an old-fashioned anti-depressant. An overdose of this would cause strange heartbeats, and death. Had the caller known this, or anticipated that an overdose of whatever medication had been prescribed for Ralph would hasten his death?
7
‘Pleasant service, sir. I didn’t expect to see so many people there.’
Detective Inspector Kershaw was surprised as Detective Sergeant Rowena Lovell, one of the team who had carried out the house-to-house enquiries, joined him to watch the cars drive away from the church. ‘Judging from appearances I would say some were contemporaries from McGuire’s college days, while others were certainly from the theatre.’
Rowena nodded. ‘Was Mr Adare there or any other actors whose biographies Mr McGuire wrote?’
‘I don’t know but the funeral director is sending me a list of those who attended.’
‘You might recognise some of them if you go back to the house,’ suggested Rowena and quickly added, ‘I’m pleased to see that Mrs McGuire is looking better. It’s not easy caring for someone with Alzheimer’s – I’ve an uncle who has it. My cousin, who’s taking compassionate leave until she can make alternative arrangements, finds it very difficult. I relieve her whenever I can, but he doesn’t always recognise me. There’s such a personality change, and at times he’s very confused.’
Kershaw glanced at the slim young woman standing beside him, reflecting that he knew very little about the private life of those in his team and said, ‘So you could understand Isabel’s concern?’
‘Yes, but she tolerated Ralph’s demanding and selfish ways long before he was ill. His behaviour in the library, on the occasions he went himself, was general knowledge.’
‘That’s very interesting,’ but as he walked towards the car park, Kershaw considered that he must read Rowena’s notes again. Although Isabel said it was unnecessary, Rowena had spent the Saturday evening and all day Sunday at the house, thereby acquiring useful information.
It was Elspeth who opened the door and greeted Kershaw. ‘Come in, Inspector. Isabel will be pleased you’re here – perhaps you’ll meet someone who can help you with your enquiries.’
Kershaw looked past Elspeth into the crowded lounge, quickly noting that a table had been placed in the centre of the room while the two large settees and various armchairs, all rather shabby, had been pushed against the walls, but many people were standing. For a moment he watched as guests helped themselves to the food then transferred his gaze to the three women standing near the window. He immediately recognised the main spokeswoman, an elderly actress who, despite her age, still looked elegant and distinguished. Accepting a glass of white wine from Joanna, who greeted him with a nervous smile, he made his way towards them, confident they would be happy to talk about their careers and Ralph.
Within minutes, Kershaw found himself being entertained, each describing Ralph’s irrelevant and sometimes sensitive questions, all concluding that they were delighted with their biographies. At last, he was able to ask, ‘Is Leo Adare here?’
‘No, thank goodness,’ snapped the second actress, who was short, stout and had untidy hair.
‘His fans probably think he’s marvellous but he’s not a very nice man,’ offered the third actress with varicoloured frizzy hair. ‘Backstage, he’s ill-mannered and rude. It’s surprising he still has the same dresser.’
‘He could probably tell a few tales, especially about Dominic, his latest lover.’ This came from the first actress and glancing at Kershaw she elaborated, ‘He’s black and has acquired a niche for himself as a portrait painter.’
‘I’m sure Ralph or Isabel has spoken to Leo’s dresser,’ said the second.
‘But there’s one person who wouldn’t want to be asked for a contribution.’ The elegant actress looked across at Kershaw as though she knew him personally, and his profession. ‘His nephew.’
‘Kieran O’Brien, who happens to live in Bristol and is restaurant manager at a well-known hotel. He certainly doesn’t like his uncle.’ The second actress grinned maliciously, revealing yellowing teeth. ‘Apparently, he’s told Leo that a biography is unnecessary and asked if the truth about his uncle’s private life and behaviour was going to be included.’
‘Aren’t you forgetting where you are, Miranda?’ scolded the first actress. ‘You shouldn’t talk like that. I’m sure this gentleman isn’t interested,’ and glancing at Kershaw she enquired, ‘are you a relative or friend?’
Aware that the other two women were also gazing at him with curiosity, Kershaw told them, ‘An acquaintance; and I must speak to Isabel before I leave.’
But before he could reach her, Elspeth greeted him with, ‘Did you enjoy your conversation with the old dears who play the three witches in Macbeth?’
‘It was very enlightening.’ Kershaw noticed that Isabel, wearing a smart black suit, was talking to two scholarly-looking men and nodded when Elspeth told him they were colleagues from Ralph’s years at the college of further education. She added that Isabel would probably appreciate his intervention.
Although very
pale, Isabel greeted him with a smile. ‘It was very kind of you to attend the funeral,’ then, interrupting the flow of conversation, ‘Mr Kershaw is a family friend.’
‘In that case, we’ll leave you together,’ said the two men simultaneously and as they turned away, the bald-headed man said, ‘If you need any advice or assistance when dealing with Ralph’s affairs, please let us know.’
Isabel nodded and then looked up at Kershaw, ‘Thank you for rescuing me.’ And without pausing, ‘Is there anyone here who can help you with your enquiries?’
Kershaw scanned the crowded room and learning that Ralph had not seen either of his university colleagues for the last five years, considered that this was not an opportune moment to ask about Leo’s nephew or dresser and after commenting about the service and attendance, departed.
‘Was it that boring?’ Inspector Kershaw had opened his office door quietly, just as Detective Sergeant Small yawned and stretched.
‘No. Most of it was quite interesting. However, were there many at the funeral? Did you go back to the house?’
Tom grinned as Kershaw told him about his encounter with the three actresses and Ralph’s college of further education colleagues, but his expression changed as Kershaw asked, ‘What do you make of the notes about Adare’s dresser?’
On learning that there weren’t any on him or Kieran O’Brien, the inspector shook his head. ‘Strange. I would have thought they were amongst the first to be interviewed.’
‘They’re not even on the list of those Duncan has yet to see,’ said Tom.
Mercy or Mercenary? Page 4