by Chris Hales
Joseph, Jonathan's son, learned much from those who were charged with caring for him. They tried to protect him from the dangers of the underworld, but he always explored his morbid fascination. It was he who would be the true inheritor to his father's empire.
Tom Edwards took Jonathan's death to heart and strove to act responsibly from then on in. Matthew and Mary unexpectedly became close to him in his attempts to bring order to the gangs of London. He always maintained he was a force for good, a law abiding man who should be regarded well, with good intentions. He took it upon himself to always keep a close eye on Joseph, endeavouring to ensure he always remained on a lawful path.
Mary never spoke of the visitor who came to her house, the night of Jonathan's death. She had sent all of the girls from her kitchen, hoping to spend some time alone with a fine bottle of matured whisky. She dreamed only of her one true love. She, just like everyone else, had thought it strange how he had worn a hood. Wild fantasies of him arriving at her home had persisted since the hanging. She dismissed them and only remembered him with eternal love. As she sifted through her memories of Jonathan she almost missed the timid knock at her back door.
Opening the entrance she gazed at the sight before her. Could it be true? Was he really here?
“Hello, Mary,” greeted her gentleman caller. “You open for business?”
Mary’s heart froze. She could hardly believe it. She tried to answer, but emotion prevented any sound from escaping her mouth. He reached out to place a hand on her shoulder. As the realisation he was not a vision hit her she felt consciousness leave her body.
Wonderful dreams of her love filled her mind. Finally she was at peace.
Jonathan Wild died on May 24th 1725...
… apparently.
