The Secret Bullet

by Les Rixon

  Drummond replied loud and clear: ‘I’m saying nothing until I see a solicitor.’ Drummond became very abusive and refused to answer any further questions.

  Inspector Willis then told Drummond: ‘The case against you is overwhelming and you are facing a very long prison sentence. To expedite matters, however, I will agree to you calling your solicitor.’ He then offered the telephone to Drummond.

  The telephone call turned out to be from his father. He said: Dad, I’m in trouble and need a solicitor as soon as possible’. After a brief delay, it became obvious that Drummond’s father agreed to contact his solicitor to represent his son. Drummond was then returned to his cell to await the arrival of the solicitor.

  Mr. Colin Clark arrived about an hour later and before seeing Drummond, had a brief discussion with Inspector Willis. Clark said: ‘From what you are telling me, this is very serious for young Drummond, but I am here to represent him at this stage and advise him where necessary.’

  ‘Understood’ replied Willis.

  Drummond was then bought back to the interview room. Inspector Willis read out all the charges against Drummond.

  Clark responded: ‘In view of the serious nature of the charges, I would like a few minutes privately with Mr. Drummond.’

  Willis agreed. Upon his return to the interview room Clark told Inspector Willis: ‘I have advised my client at this stage to plead Not Guilty’.

  ‘That is your prerogative, but I have to advise you that Mr. Drummond will appear before the local Magistrates Courts in the morning’ explained Willis. The Solicitor left and Drummond was returned to custody. Willis and Frank then began to prepare all the various documents required for the Court appearance the following day.

  At eleven o’clock the next day the Court proceedings commenced. Drummond was represented by Mr. Clark. The charges were read out. The response from Clark was brief: ‘My client refutes the charges and will plead Not Guilty on the grounds that due to certain medical conditions, he was not able to be responsible for many of the things of which he might be accused.’ The Magistrate was not impressed with this and the case was referred to the Crown Court.

  After the Court appearance, Willis and Frank discussed their next move. Willis said: ‘It is obvious they are trying to defend Drummond on the basis that he was heavily into drugs and was not aware of his actions. This is in no way acceptable in Court. We have a cast iron case and I will set things in motion for the Prosecution. On one final point, I am sure that whoever acts for Drummond will find it an almost impossible case to defend.’

  Two months later Drummond appeared in the Crown Court. The Prosecution’s case contained various items of solid evidence. The Defence was in the hands of Mr. Julian Martin, an experienced QC, who, as predicted, relied on various aspects of Drummond’s background and how he had been lured into drugs, as a result of which he needed urgent treatment for his addiction. He went on to say that Drummond had told him that he knew he should be prepared for a lengthy period of treatment for his condition, but denied any of the charges against him.

  The proceedings for the case were relatively short, since the evidence was so overwhelming. The Jury did not take very long to reach the verdict of Guilty on all charges. The Judge then addressed the Court, stating that Drummond had ruined the lives of several people, and that being a drug addict was no defence plus the fact that Drummond had not shown any remorse for his actions. ‘I have no alternative’ he concluded ‘but to send you to prison for twelve years’. Drummond was then led away. The case received widespread coverage, not only in the local newspapers, but also in several national newspapers.

  Chapter 9

  Richard continued reading the document which indicated that basically there were several funds that were rolled into one. Firstly, Helen’s husband, Inspector George Brown, had some years earlier taken out a substantial Life Insurance Policy which was considerably enhanced due to his death having been caused by circumstances beyond his control. The next fund was from members of the Masonic Lodge to which George and his friend Robert belonged. Both men were very popular members of their Lodge and George, had he lived, would have become Master in a few months time. Members from other Lodges also contributed to the fund.

  The Police Station where George was based had also set up a fund which was supported by other Police Stations plus considerable donations from members of the public. Just before all the collections were about to be closed, an anonymous donation of £40,000 arrived, which was divided between the two men involved in the accident. Tony Wren, a retired Police Inspector, was appointed to co-ordinate the execution of the funds raised. He spent a great deal of time visiting Robert Green and supporting him with advice as to the various benefits to which he might be entitled. He also made numerous visits to assist Helen in various ways. They had something in common, as Tony had lost his wife three years ago in a car accident.

  Richard reached the last page of the report which indicated that the figure Helen would receive was just over £100,000 plus her Police Widow’s pension. Richard then called Helen into the room and told her that, in his opinion, she should accept that figure. He then added that there was a possible claim from the friend who was driving him home, since he had Comprehensive Motor Insurance, but that it was probably prudent not to make such a claim against his friend, since Robert Green was now crippled and was finding life very difficult. Helen instantly agreed and said that it was time to move on. She went on to say that Tony Wren would be joining them for lunch and that he had been very supportive to her.

  Shortly afterwards Tony Wren arrived. His dress could be described as smart casual. Helen introduced him to Richard, whereupon she then enquired: ‘Would you all like a sherry before lunch?’ following which they all settled down in the lounge.

  Helen turned to Tony: ‘Richard has looked at the file and seems satisfied with its contents, but I must let you discuss it with him.’ Richard remarked: ‘There’s just one thing that is puzzling me, although it does not affect the settlement figure, and that is I am curious as to who coughed up the £40,000 donation so near to the closure of the fund.’

  Tony, with a half-smile, replied: ‘You and me both. My natural curiosity led me to try and find out who made the donation. Whoever it was went to considerable lengths to conceal their identity. I did discover by chance that the cheque in question passed through more than one account and finally emanated from a firm of Solicitors in London. I have heard various rumours but at the end of the day I suspect that whoever made the donation had good reasons to wish to remain anonymous.’

  They all then moved into the dining room for a rational roast with all the trimmings, followed by a delightful rhubarb crumble. At the end of the meal, Tony proposed a toast: ‘To Helen, for providing such a lovely lunch.‘ He added: ‘I am so pleased that we have finally reached a successful solution to the fund raising, but good as it maybe all the money in the world would not eliminate the dreadful trauma Helen has had to face.’

  Richard then added: ‘I would like to respond to the toast on behalf of everyone around this table, by offering a very big thanks and appreciation of all the work that Tony has put into reach the magnificent sum that was raised. It does not need rocket science to realise that Tony must have spent many hours to achieve the results he has.’

  Tony replied: ‘There is just one thing on which I could not advise Helen, and that concerns the investment of the funds.’ Richard responded: ‘That is certainly a very important point. Helen does need to take professional advice on the matter. I can, if you are willing Helen, to have a chat with my father. If he cannot come up with anything, he would certainly know someone who can.’

  Helen then spoke: ’I think that would be a good idea. You go ahead.’ With that the meal concluded.

  Tony said: ‘I now have to leave you. I am off to my daughter’s party. It’s her wedding anniversary today.’

 
Following Tony’s departure, Helen addressed Mary and Richard: ‘What did you think of Tony?’

  Richard responded: ‘Well in my opinion, he is a very sincere type of person and I’m sure he is as honest as the day is long.’

  Helen smiled and said: That is more or less my sentiment.’

  Turning to Mary, Helen then asked: ‘Now, when are you free to come with me to my sister Joan to have an initial fitting of your wedding dress? Of course Richard cannot come to this appointment. You do understand Richard?’

  ‘Naturally, of course’ replied Richard.

  Helen then said: ‘I would like to discuss my wedding present to you. Bearing in mind the things you need for your house, I would like to provide you with all the curtains but I need to have some idea of your choice.’

  Richard added: ‘I would not have a clue on this one. As far as I am concerned, you go ahead. It’s a very practical present.’

  ‘Well’ said Helen ‘If you can give me a key I will go over tomorrow and take all the measurements and then go to that shop in the High Street. They do carry large stocks of standard size curtains. What they don’t have, they make up curtains to order.’ Helen went on: ‘Basically, I would suggest neutral colours that would blend in with almost any furniture you choose. Another good thing is that this firm not only supplies, but they also have a very good fitter who would take care of the tracking required.’

  Mary thanked her mother and said: ‘This is a very thoughtful present for which Richard and I are most grateful.’

  Richard then prepared to leave for home. His parting words were that his parents wanted to discuss a suitable present. So everything was slowly falling into shape.

  Chapter 10

  That evening Richard was in the garden having a beer with his father, who soon raised the question of a wedding present and enquired: ‘How far have you got with furnishing the house?’

  Richard replied: ‘Well, we have already bought a bed and some bed linen.’

  Harold smiled and said: ‘Well that’s a good start.’ He went on to say: ‘Your other and I both agree that the most practical present would be a contribution to the cost of furnishing the house’ and with that, he handed Richard an envelope saying: ‘You may open it now or when you next see Mary.’

  ‘Thanks’ said Richard ‘I can assure you it will be very useful. At that moment Janet came into the garden with a glass of wine. Richard got up and kissed his mother and said: ‘Dad has just told me about your wedding present. It will be most useful.’

  Chapter 11

  It was a glorious summer’s day, almost the longest day of the year. Richard rose early. This was the big day at last and today he and Mary would become husband and wife.

  His mother cooked a full English breakfast and as Richard and his parents chatted away, his father started to ask Richard something, but before he could get out the words Richard said to his Dad: ‘I think we have covered everything. All we need is a lovely summer’s day.’ He continued: ‘Thanks Mum for a lovely breakfast.’ He went on: ‘I’m leaving here just after two o’clock and meeting up with Tom in good time to be at the church by three o’clock.’ Richard then left the room to complete his packing.

  At two o’clock precisely Richard said goodbye to his parents with a cheery ‘See you in church.’ He soon arrived at Elmhurst Lodge Hotel where Tom was already waiting for him. They exchanged greetings and Tom suggested: ‘Let’s have coffee at the Hotel. We have plenty of time.’

  The time soon passed. Tom and Richard had arrived at the church ten minutes before the wedding was due to start. The organist began to pay the Wedding March, announcing Mary’s arrival and the start of her walk down the aisle and so the wedding began.

  The Reverend Charles Lightfoot began the service by welcoming the congregation and then conducted the ceremony with great sincerity. He was obviously very experienced and seemed more than happy in his chosen vocation. Finally, he pronounced Richard and Mary husband and wife. The service over, the organist then played Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring, whilst the Bride and Groom and witnesses went to the vestry to complete the marriage certificate. Richard and Mary then began to walk slowly down the aisle. They were amazed at the number of people who had come to their wedding. Richard whispered to Mary: ‘Your dress is perfect for the occasion.’ Once outside the church then began the essential numerous photographs to be taken. When this was completed Richard and Mary left for the journey to the hotel to prepare to meet all their guests.

  Congratulations were almost continuous until they all gathered in the Embassy Room to the rear of the hotel. Tom came into his own as Best Man and took charge of the reception. The meal was an elaborate salad, which in view of the weather, was most appropriate. Tom rose and proposed the toast. He spoke with affection for Richard and Mary which was well received by the guests.

  Richard then rose and began: ‘My wife and I’ which brought a ripple of laughter. He then went on to thank everyone for their generous gifts and all those who had contributed so much prior to the wedding. Richard continued:

  ‘I should like to extend a special thanks to Helen and her sister Joan for their super effort in providing Mary with such a lovely wedding dress. I must also give special thanks to my parents who have made a big effort in assisting Mary and myself in the months before the wedding. Mary and I will try and see you during the interval before the evening entertainment starts.’

  Tom then rose and said: ‘There will now be a short interval whilst the tables are cleared and preparations are completed for the evening buffet and entertainment.’

  Just after six o’clock Tom addressed the guests: ‘Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to our band for the evening, Ian Prior and the Pioneers, plus the delightful vocalist Vanessa.’

  With that the curtains on the stage drew back to reveal a six piece band. At the moment Richard, who was having a chat with the Hotel Manager, said: ‘I thought we were having a disco’. ‘Well’ said the Manager, we had a request from a well-wisher who offered to upgrade the music. Apparently he attended a function where this band was performing.’ Richard said: ‘I think I know who this well-wisher is,’

  The band leader then addressed the guests: ‘Ladies and Gentlemen, there is in my opinion, only one dance and music that will fit this very happy day, so would Richard and Mary please take the floor for our opening number. It’s True Love from the film High Society.’ So Richard and Mary danced the first dance. The floor was soon full of dancers. It made a perfect start to the evening.

  At nine o’clock it was announced there would be a short break for the band and that a finger buffet was available at the end of the hall. The celebrations came to an end at around eleven o’clock. Everyone seemed to be in good spirits as evidenced by all the happy farewells until finally it was just Richard and Mary who were left to go to their room. They entered the lift and pressed button 3. Their room was just a few yards along the corridor. On entering the room Richard embraced Mary and said: ‘It all went so well.’

  Mary responded: ‘I am so very happy that the whole day was perfect.’

  Richard began to undress when Mary said: ‘I have a problem Richard. I can’t undo the zip on my dress.’

  Richard smiled and said: ‘We cannot have that problem on our wedding night.’ With that, he firmly pulled the zip down and said: ‘Is there anything else you want undone?’

  ‘No’ replied Mary, ‘I can manage.’

  With that, Richard went to the en suite bathroom. When he returned to the bedroom he saw Mary almost ready for bed. She was wearing a short, almost see-through nightie. He embraced Mary firmly and said: ‘You are a sight for sore eyes.’

  Mary responded: ‘I must go to the bathroom before you get too excited.’

  So on her return, they at last embraced one another in a warm comfortable bed.

  Mary said to Richard:
‘You remember we discussed several times about when we would start a family.’

  ‘Yes.’

  ‘Yes and we agreed to wait a couple of years.’

  ‘Spot on. I thought I would just mention it. I don’t want to be the next patient in my Maternity Ward.’

  ‘I agree. Just to reassure you, I was a troop leader in the Boy Scouts and their motto has always been - “Be Prepared” - and I am.’

  ‘You are very well organised,’ responded Mary and then they made passionate love.

  Chapter 12

  Next morning Richard awoke first and promptly made a cup of tea which he took round to Mary’s side of the bed. He kissed her gently and said:

  ‘Your morning tea, madam.’

  ‘What time do we have to leave?’

  ‘There’s no great rush but I would like to be on the way after breakfast- say about ten o’clock’

  ‘I don’t really want to take my wedding dress away with me.’

  ‘No problem. We will be passing close to our house on the way, so can stop and put the dress in the wardrobe in our bedroom.’

  ‘That would be perfect.’

  So they dressed in casual clothes and after breakfast started on their journey for their honeymoon. After taking the wedding dress to their house, Mary asked: ‘Now where are we going?’

  ‘It’s my surprise’ said Richard. Almost an hour later they joined the M3. Just after Eastleigh they joined the M27 at the Cadnam junction and drove south towards the New Forest.

  ‘I give up’ said Mary. ‘I thought I had it cracked when we were travelling towards Bournemouth on the M27.’

  ‘Well, I can now tell you where we are going. It’s to the Isle of Wight.’