Slippery Ann by Bailey H. C

Author:Bailey, H. C. [Bailey, H. C.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Mystery
ISBN: 085468459X
Goodreads: 55022035
Publisher: Redwood Press Limited
Published: 1944-01-01T05:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER XIX

SORE HEADS

SOME TIME BEFORE this farewell the children’s service at All Saints’ ended. Mr. Clunk sat still beaming upon the children while they tramped out, then pattered down the aisle to help Emma, who wanted no help, with Miss Parker’s chair.

How kind of him! A faint flush came to the wan face, the dim eyes brightened. She had not thought he would be there. But Mr. Clunk loved the little ones, though God had not given him and his dear wife a child. Indeed, he loved them all the more for that. Miss Parker could quite, quite understand and her eyes were misty. Mr. Clunk thought there was nothing sweeter in life than a nice children’s service, he always sought them wherever he went, he and his dear wife had such bliss from them together at home. Miss Parker did hope he liked the service that afternoon, or were the children too restless? Ah, no, no, indeed, she must not think so, didn’t she remember “the stern disciples drove them back and bade them depart, but Jesus stopped them ere they fled - - “? They were all joy, they made one happy, didn’t they? Yes, that was just what Miss Parker felt. Mr. Clunk and she held the service over again till they reached her door. Wouldn’t he come in? Mrs. Winch was coming to tea? Mr. Clunk thanked her so much, but he must deny himself the pleasure, he had promised he would hear what he could do for a poor fellow in distress. Might he dare hope Miss Parker would honour him again? He was so kind, said Miss Parker sorrowfully.

Mr. Clunk hurried away to the Royal and in the dreary solitude of its drawing - room sucked toffee.

The door opened, Scott came round the screen and sat down beside him.

“Well, my boy, well?” Mr. Clunk asked.

“What’s the news from the police front?”

“I have heard none.” Mr. Clunk offered him the half - empty toffee tin, which was brusquely rejected. “We mustn’t be impatient,” said Mr. Clunk and took a piece himself. “Let us hope they are doing their best.” Scott grinned. “Oh dear, have you had more trouble?”

“Not a spot. But I’ve made some.”

“Tell me.” Mr. Clunk became fierce.

Scott recounted his dealings with Esk… .

Mr. Clunk’s prominent eyes enlarged, from time to time he sputtered and at the end he wailed: “How could you be so rash?”

Scott laughed. “That’s what young Esk handed me.”

“Of course he did. It was the only safe answer for him. Do you trust the young man?”

“Not too much. He’s very hot. I make it about six to four he’s white.”

“Is that enough?” Mr. Clunk squeaked. “I am amazed at you, Scott. Didn’t you really perceive he was leading you on?”

“You’ve got it wrong. I led him. He has to be useful now, one way or the other. If nothing at all breaks, that means Esk won’t work against the black market gang, he’s yellow, he’s one of ‘em. If he’s not, if he passes the word I’m getting the goods on ‘em, then they have to get me quick or bolt.

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