Samuel Wasserman and Bill Conner: a series of crime fighting and investigative adventures
Introduction: The story consists of the two lifelong friends, Samuel Wasserman and Bill Conner, who retired from law enforcement to become private detectives, and embark on a journey to solve the case of a man who was found dead at the estate of a wealthy businessman who owns a giant mansion, and an expensive golf course. With the help of three college students that they bring along with them, they all take on the investigation to crack the code of the murdered man.
Our story begins at the Ben Housen’s grass view hill, aside the Anacostia river. Samuel Wasserman and Bill Conner, the two lifelong detectives came to meet at the site. “Samuel, I’m glad I could be here to meet you on this fine afternoon. Of course, we’ve brought ourselves here to discuss the recent events involving a well talked about crime that’s been growing in recognition.” Bill said.
“Indeed it has,” Samuel said, “It’s been getting my attention too, and as you know, it involves the murder of the young man by the name of Collin Patterson, who was found dead at the Brandswroth estate. Hopefully, we can get involved in the case and be able to solve it.” he continued.
“I am as much excited to join in as you are.” replied Bill.
“Thankfully, as I’ve been called to take this case, after following several insipid cases over the years since my retirement from working for the law enforcement agency XXI years ago, and becoming a private detective. The police have found me to be well experienced, and as I requested of them, they allowed you to come along with me to be of assistance, as you are as well an experienced investigator. As well for me, I’m glad I can finally get back into a major case. Just like the old days. Since we know little about the man Collin Patterson, it’s important that we get as much information as we are able to obtain. It’s not known of anyone who hated him, and there is no current sign of any motive toward the man. He wasn’t particularly rich himself, while he had been known for going to the XXXVI Million dollar estate frequently.” Samuel said.
Bill took a seat on the stone bench behind him. “To me, I can’t see why anyone would want to kill him. He allegedly had no history of crime, no run-ins with the law. But as little as we know now, what can be concluded? Anyways, I hope it works out… Y’know. With all the work that comes with life, also comes wrinkles and grey hair. I can tell you, with age, you become more weary, and wish for the type of spryness you have when you’re younger. I remember the cases I solved with less difficulty, unimpeded by an aching back or knees.” Bill said.
“I as well am aware of the growing difficulty that comes with age. You can’t run anymore without twisting your ankle.” Samuel said.
“Indeed. I don’t even bother to run anymore. Well anyway, I can tell you that there’s– “. Bill was interrupted. He reached his hand into his pocket to answer his ringing phone. “Yes? who is this?” he said.
“Hello! It’s Officer Murray Matherson calling in. I hear you’re going to start the case about the murder at rich businessman’s estate. You must really want to get to the scene, don’t you? It’s good you and your friend Sam were accepted to take part in the investigation.“ the caller said.
“Oh! Yes! I do. Indeed it is.” Bill said. “I would like to congratulate you, Bill. For being able to be in another big investigation again. It’s been a long time since I’ve heard from you. I know you might have other stuff. But Whenever you have the chance to start with your investigation, it would be a great service to everyone, as you have had a lot of main expertise in these type of investigations. Have you had any cases you’ve been busy with?” Officer Matherson said. “Thank you. No, not recently, however me in my friend Samuel, who happens to be here with me are going to get working on it.” Bill Said.
“Well good luck. And don’t run into any criminals.” Officer Matherson said.
“Yes. Of course.” Bill said.
“Do you need any further help, if the both of you aren’t enough to do the job?“ Officer Matherson asked.
“No, I don’t need any further help with the matters. Samuel and I, we work with complete accomplishment of one another” Bill said.
"You’re not too nervous about it, are you?” Officer Matherson asked.
“No, I wouldn’t say I’m nervous. It’s no big problem.” Bill said.
“Remember to be cautious of everything.” Officer Matherson said.
“Yes of course sir.” Bill said. Samuel could hear the voice of the man on the phone.
“Well then I suppose everything is good then. It looks like I don’t need to say anything further. I guess I will end our brief conversation now.” Officer Matherson said.
“Yes indeed, sir. Good talking to you.” Bill said. “Goodbye, Bill.” Officer Matherson said. “Goodbye.” Bill said. He put his phone back in his pocket.
Samuel looked puzzled. “Who was that?” he asked.
“That was Officer Murray Matherson, giving me congratulatory remarks on the case we’re about the get involved in.” Bill said. Bill looked at his phone. “How do I shut this damn thing off?” he said, trying to touch the “End call” button on the screen. After several attempts, he finally hung up.
“You’re having trouble with your phone there I see.” Samuel said.
“Yeah. It’s a Nokia Lumia.” Bill said.
“That phone looks too damn complicated.” Samuel said.
“Yeah, and those damn Finnish people don’t like to make their technology easy to use.” Bill said.
“Anyway, regarding other matters, a warrant has been filed for us to search the estate of Mr. Brandsworth. The man typically doesn’t like to comply with officers, and has avoided any attention from the public eye. Being the fact that he is a rich man, who owns an expensive golf course, and lives in a large mansion, being at risk of being sued by him is something to keep in mind. The man has somewhat of a temper. Leaving that aside, if all goes well, you and I can prepare for the investigation at the estate in the next couple days. Sound good?” Samuel said.
“Yes. It does sound good. It’s good to get some fresh air anyway. After all, the view is nice here isn’t it? You can see the birds flying overhead the reflective river with the suns orange glare in it.” Bill replied. “Yes, very much so. A touch off coffee to drink would be nice as well. Maybe some nice vanilla.” Samuel said.
“Can’t get enough of coffee. Especially on a nice day like this.” Bill said.
“After all, what’s life without a view of the world, over a river?”, “Indeed. Visiting at this place is much nicer than my dark, messy home. Full of papers, and file holders, clothes, and other stuff, filling up my room. If it weren’t for my back, I would probably get up and go here more often.”, “Whatever type of problems may occur. If I wasn’t engulfed in the tiring career I once had an obsession for, I would consider going to an area like this.”, “I remember back in the sixties, I had this one case involving a man who was shot. I quickly arrested the perpetrator after I found his handgun in the back of his car. I drove a MCMLVIII Ford Fairlane. That day, I could’ve gotten shot, but I was lucky enough to catch him by surprise with my gun drawn when he wasn’t expecting it.” Bill said. “I remember I was chasing this guy who was convicted of smuggling cocaine, it was a long time ago, but I still remember it well. I was running so hard, it was about XII blocks, when I finally caught him, I was out of breath, and dripping sweat. The police congratulated me for the arrest, and I remember that day as one the most successful, after receiving much praise from officers for catching a man who was part of a major drug bust. Even still today, I remember that day the most fondly as my career as a detective.” Samuel said. “Nothing the crimes we’ve both had in the seventies” Bill said. “Nothing indeed. The mornings at the desk, holding a cup of coffee in your hand with your badge tucked onto your white shirt, with the radio blaring, and the police commissioner yelling at you about the next case, as you check each headline in the paper for the latest details.” Samuel said.
Bill sitting on the bench with the sun over his eyes, pointed at the oncoming breeze of flying leaves through the trees over the river. They watched as two people on bikes passed by the path over the river below. The sun, still shining, yet growing dim. They temporarily forgot about the problems of tomorrow. The two men sat for awhile, and quickly got up.
“Well, this appointment was nice.” Samuel said.
“Indeed it was.” he replied.
“One more thing I must tell you avant le début de voyage.” Samuel said.
“Yes? What is it?” Bill said.
“I want to meet again here tomorrow, at V O’clock. And bring Anderson Philips with us. I want him to bring some young fresh minds along with us for the case. Ask him to gather three college students, and have them ride along with our investigation. Some detective hopefuls could be of big assistance.” Samuel said.
“Of course, sir. I will do that right away. Some helpers along our journey would be good. Anyway. Nice meeting with you.” Bill said. They shook hands, left the location, and walked back into their cars.
The next day, Samuel was finishing up eating lunch at the local cafeteria. He got into his car, and returned to the sight where he last met his friend Bill Conner the day before. He parked his car, and walked out to see he hadn’t shown up yet. He waited awhile, and turned around. He saw his car appear up the parking lot. Bill parked his car.
“Ah! Well you’re here. Now where is Anderson?” Samuel said.
“He should be showing up any minute. Hopefully he knows how to drive the bus.” Bill said. Several moments later, a George Washington University bus came driving in, and parked alongside them. A skinny, well dressed Anderson Philips, in a tie with combed hair, wearing a sport coat and brown pants walked out.
“Anderson! You’re as slovenly as ever!” Samuel said.
“And you’re as successful and rich as ever.” replied Anderson.
“You would know, considering you have two college degrees like me. Oh wait.” Samuel answered.
“Would you like to see our men?” Anderson asked.
“Yes! Where are they? You didn’t injure them all on their bus ride here did you?” Samuel said.
“No, they’re quite fine. Nothing at all is wrong with them.”, “Good. It’s about time we get some help around here. These guys need to be assured of all the details of the case as me and Bill are. Where are they anyway? Bring them out. You were able to get three of them weren’t you?”, “Yes. They’re all anxious to get out. Come here!” he yelled at them.
The three college students jumped out of the bus in single file.
“Allow me to introduce you to the three men who will be joining your investigation. Mathew Foreman, Josh Bale, and Jack O’Leery. They’re as eager as the both of you. If not more so.” Anderson said.
“Well done! Bring the men over! I need them to join our gang. Let me inform them of the events.” Samuel said.
The three college students walked onto the grass lawn where Samuel and Bill were.
“My name’s Bill Conner, and this is my friend Samuel, welcome aboard!” Bill said.
Samuel grabbed Mathew on his shoulder. “Now to catch everyone up on the recent events.” Samuel said, walking into the middle of the crowd next to Bill. He continued speaking, “A man was found dead last Saturday around IX in the morning. He was murdered at the estate of a rich business man named Martin Brandsworth, who owns a XL Million dollar golf course called the Brandsworth Grand Tournoi Green. The man murdered was Collin Patterson. He was found dead in the greenhouse next to the mansion. He was murdered with what appeared to be a machete, judging by the wounds on his back. There was no motive known yet. The murder weapon has not been found. His back was facing the entrance of the greenhouse before he got stabbed, and the blood stains on the floor back up the evidence. Little is known about him. He was XXV years of age, and frequently went to the Brandsworth Estate.”, “Who was there at the time of the murder, do you know?” Mathew asked.
“According to the police, Martin Brandsworth and his wife Lisa Brandsworth were asleep at the time the murder supposedly took place. A couple of servants, maids, and workers who tended to the gardens were possibly there.” Samuel answered.
“Were there any witnesses?” Josh asked. “As a matter of fact,” Bill said, “One of the key witnesses was a groundswoman, who said she saw the door of the greenhouse open during her garden work around the house. This all happened around V XXX in the evening. She said she didn’t see anyone go in, but several moments later, the door to the greenhouse was closed. There was no struggle heard, or screams heard.”, “What if the groundswoman did it. She wanted to look consistent with the evidence, so she said the approximate place she was at, no one else was there, and if she owned a machete for groundskeeping, she could’ve easily used that to go over there and commit the murder.” Mathew said.
“But anyone else could’ve used a machete.” Josh said.
“Who was the last person to see the man who was murdered?” Jack asked.
“That once more, depends on who was really there. More questions need to be asked by the people at the mansion.” Bill said.
“Who would be the most likely person at this point?” Jack asked.
“Whoever was closest to the crime.” Mathew said.
“But anyone could’ve done it. If no one knows where the murder weapon is, what proof do we have?” Josh said.
“We have one suspicious person, that’s who we have.” Mathew said.
“We need more alibis from people in order to know.” Josh said.
“Is there any evidence on the body of Mr. Patterson?” Mathew asked.
“No. No DNA evidence has yet been obtained. And there was no sign of a major struggle.” Samuel said.
“Why would he be in the greenhouse anyway? What a weird place to be.” Mathew said.
“Maybe he was the flower lady.” Josh said.
”So what duties are we brought to?” Mathew said, as he turned to Samuel and Bill.
“We brought you guys here to help us out. Whoever did it, needs to be taken to justice. Tomorrow, the three of you will come with us, and we will show up at the Brandsworth estate tomorrow at IX in the morning, where our investigation into the Collin Patterson murder will begin. I’ll meet you guys at Smithson Avenue, at your campus. You guys must show up there from your tired rooms, and be there at VIII XXX in the morning, once you’ve all had coffee and breakfast. Wait there for me. I’ll roll down the window and shout to you guys, and you can hop in. Bring some flashlights, magnifying glasses, latex gloves, and other stuff you might need.” Sam said.
Bill added, “And be there on time.”.
“And where are we left now?” Mathew said.
“Our little meeting here is done.” Samuel said. He patted them on the back, shook hands with them, walked with Bill back to the parking lot, got back into his car, and left. “Anderson! You’re up!” Sam said. Anderson walked them back into the bus, and drove back toward the campus. Samuel waved to Bill, and drove off.
The next morning, Samuel drove to the campus, with Bill in the front seat next to him. Samuel drove to the correct spot, an intersection with a traffic light. And as he suspected, the three drowsy college students awaited them, with their backpacks at hand.
“Hurry up and come in! It’s LX degrees this morning!” Samuel said with the window down, waving his arm toward himself.
They slowly slugged into the backseats. Sam put his foot on the gas pedal, turned around, and took off. They drove out of the campus where they picked up the college students. Samuel drove into a a rich neighborhood with large houses, big lawns, and statuesque shrubbery. As the ride progressed, more expensive houses appeared, with gated fences. Josh had his fist plastered to the side of his face, as his arm rested on the inside of the car door. He groaned a little. Mathew rubbed his eyes, and looked around the neighborhood, to see the flashy houses of the upscale residences, of which he has had minimal experiences viewing. Samuel remained quiet the whole ride. And Bill didn’t talk either. As Mathew looked around, trying to take in the landscape of the large neighborhood, he asked, “We’re going to the place right? The estate of Martin Brandsworth, right?”, “Yes of course.” Sam responded.
“And when do we show up there?”, “We’re almost there. You’ll know his mansion when you see it.”. “How big is the place?” Josh asked. “Very big. You’ll understand what they mean when they say he’s rich.” Sam responded.
“Does he have any security?” Mathew asked.
“No. Just a gate. No cameras or guards. At least on the outside fence.” Sam responded.
They drove further, finally reaching the end of the block. A swarm of trees covered the estate that succeeded the block. Finally, a big fence appeared. A tall fence. With metal spikes on top. Following a group of more trees, finally, the estate of billionaire Mr. Brandsworth became visible. The scenery was gratifyingly rich to the eyes. Surrounding the luxurious mansion, were visible water fountains spraying mist, along with planted cherry blossoms and oaks, and all assortments of flowers around the mansion. The lawn was of a carpet like prestige, seen in an area like that of the white house. The house was surrounded by hedges, as it followed a stone pathway from the entrance of the pillared walkway of the house, leading to the driveway, guarded by a big metal gate with gold letters saying, “The Brandsworth Estate”. Samuel drove up to the gate in his big black Lincoln Town Car.
“Do you know the code for the gate?” Bill asked.
“Yes I do. The police gave it to me.” Samuel answered. Samuel punched in the code. He drove in. Immediately as he drove in, a groundsman in boots and work gloves behind two of the hedges dropped his shovel, and instantly began running towards the car in an aggressive manner. “Stop what you’re doing right there!” he said. The man had thick grey eyebrows which sloped down, almost covering his eyes, and a square chin, and square nose. Samuel was the first one to catch view of the man.
He rolled down his window. The groundsman ran up to the hood of the car “You have no rights to walk on these grounds!!! This property is owned by Martin Brandsworth!!! I’m going to sue you!!! “I’m going to sue all of you!!!” the groundsman yelled, stamping his feet on the ground, and shaking his fist.
“I have rights to search this property! I’m assisting the law enforcement!” Samuel yelled.
“You’re going to hear from Martin Brandsworth!!! All of you intruding spectators are!!!!!!!!!” the groundsman yelled.
“What are you going to sue us for? We’re investigating this property!” Bill said.
“We’re searching the estate for more evidence, and to speak to witnesses, and any other individuals who might have involvement in the crime.” Sam said.
“You better watch yourself!!! This is not public property!” the groundsman said, starring back at Samuel in anger, as he walked back to resume his work.
“And what is up with that guy? There’s something suspicious about him” Bill said.
“Yes there is. Quite very much so.” Sam said, as he looked at him from his car.
“We’re going to keep an eye on him.” Bill said.
Samuel drove up a little more, and then turned and parked his car on the side of the driveway. He turned off his engine, and got out of the car. Bill did so as well, along with the rest of the men in the backseats, Mathew Foreman, Josh Bale, and Jack O’leery got out, and closed the back doors. As they got out, then it was clearly visible how truly elegant the place was. Beams of sunlight shined through the tops of the trees, as eastern Kingbirds and Mourning doves were heard above. Roses, azaleas, and magnolias were planted around the mansion. Far on the other side of the yard was a waterfall, surrounded
by bright white bedrock.
“Finally.” Bill said. “Where’s Mr. Brandsworth?” Mathew asked.
“He’s away doing business, luckily.” Bill answered. Too bad we won’t be seeing his roundness.” Sam said.
“He’s not expected to come back?” Josh asked. “No, he should be gone for the rest of the day.” Sam said.
The men gathered up in a circle, Sam was facing the rest of the students, with Bill aside him. Samuel began speaking first. “Alright now to inform everyone of the area. Your jobs are to go around and look for evidence. The estate is separated into five sections. The Plaza de Flora, the Arbor Atrii, Rush Falls, le Domaine Élégante, and the Brandsworth center, where you’ll find the Brandsworth lobby, which sells snacks, cooks meals, and
serves drinks. Also, I’ve done some researching, and it turns out Collin Patterson was Martin Brandsworth’s stepson. He also had a birth son named Henry Brandsworth, who recently stayed here at the estate. The police looked all inside the mansion for any murder weapons. It’s your jobs are now to go around the yard of the estate where the police overlooked, and find as much evidence as you can, while me and Bill will go speak to witnesses, and get any other information the police might’ve left out. And hopefully, erit victoriae nostra erunt! ”. Just as Samuel finished speaking, a police cruiser drove up from behind them.
“Oh what do we have here?” Sam said. The officer inside the car opened the gate, and drove up. “Oh! I know who that is! It’s Police Commissioner Charles Beaton!” Sam said.
The officer parked his car just behind where Sam parked. He walked towards them.
“Samuel! You look several years older! And you’re fatter, and your back is more hunched over!” Commissioner Charles said.
“That’s because I’ve been eating well and exercising.” Sam said.
“And who are these three guys? They don’t look like professional detectives.” Commissioner Charles Beaton said.
“No, they’re not. They’re college students. We brought them along with us for help.”, “Oh. Alright then. So why are you guys here?,”, “Well if you haven’t already been told, we’ve been called by the law enforcement to take on this case, and we’re just about to start our investigation.”, “That’s good to know. This is after all now one of the most well known cases in all of Washington D.C.. Both of you men are hopefully fit for the job.”, “By the way, a groundsman approached us the very second we came in. He was defensive of the estate. Something was very suspicious about him.”, “That was probably Paul Jefferson, I encountered him when I went over here to search this place a couple days ago.”, “He seems like a suspect. It’s possible he was the one who committed the murder.”, “Well it is very possible. But he’s always been defensive of the estate.”, “Something about that man. But again, at this stage, there are several others who I suppose could use a good interrogation.”. Police Commissioner Charles Beaton looked around, and went back to his car. “Another thing, guys. I have some photos of the crime scene.” Samuel said.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out some photos showing Mr. Patterson’s body with the stab wounds. “Here you can get an idea of how he was stabbed.” Samuel said.
“The wounds aren’t consistent with a machete. They’re too short, and they’re not thick enough. It looks like he was murdered with a chef’s knife as apposed to a machete.” Josh said.
“I would’ve even guessed. But it does look like it was possibly chef’s knife.” Samuel said, looking at the image again.
“Do you think the chef did it?” Jack asked.
“Well there are multiple chefs who work here. But it’s possible.”. “Maybe Henry Brandsworth did it.” Mathew said.
“I’m not sure.”, “Well it’s possible. Him and Collin Patterson could’ve been enemies. If he was staying there at the same time, he could’ve killed him.”, “All has yet to be confirmed since the murder weapon hasn’t even been found.”, “Anyway, we’re going to go and get information from people inside the mansion. So we’ll leave you guys here. Good luck.” Bill said.
The three men spread in different directions, as Samuel and Bill walked up the walkway to the mansion, in they’re polo shirts and jeans. Mathew was wearing a black, buttoned down jacket with jeans. Josh was wearing a plaid shirt and khakis. Jack was wearing a white shirt with a leather jacket over it, and green pants. Matt walked to the Abor Atrii, and began looking up and around the trees. Josh went over to the the Plaza de Flora where the greenhouse was, surrounded by barricade tape. Jack took out his magnifying glass, and began looking at the ground. As Josh walked up, doves flew from the edges of the water fountains which he walked in between to get to the greenhouse. A stone sign was there, which marked the area saying, “The Plaza de Flora”. He put his backpack down, and took out a steal square measuring tool. He began measuring the footprints just leading up to where the barricade tape was. He then looked up at the footprints again from where they were first visible, to where they led up. His green eyes glistening in the sun as he looked with intent, puzzled about what he was looking at. He then put his steel measuring tool back, and took out a magnifying glass. He looked at each individual footprint. He put his magnifying glass back, and looked to see of anything else within the barricaded area that might be of significance. He then got out his phone, and took a picture of the footprints. Finally, he walked around the greenhouse. Mathew looked around each tree, which eventually led to the foot of the mansion.
He looked behind a hedge. Then closely at the walls of the mansion, and continued walking, looking behind each hedge, trying not to step on the flowers. He looked around at the whole yard. Aside from Josh and Jack, not very many people crossed through Mathew’s line of sight. An occasional groundswoman would walk by the perimeter of the mansion, or a maid would go walk out from the inside or come in. But aside from that, over the whole time he surveyed the people who would come and go, no one interesting would walk by. Mathew gave up on that matter, and walked back up to the little stone pathway aside the bushes. He ended up being just several feet from Josh. He looked to his side, and saw the mist of the water fountains. He looked behind him, and saw Jack with his magnifying glass, and he looked in front of him to see Josh walking carefully around the greenhouse. Mathew turned back, and got down on his knees behind the shrubs where the dirt was.
About a minute later, he found a small folded up piece of paper. He put on his latex gloves, and picked it up.
He opened up the piece of paper, and it read, “Finish Wednesday, don’t let Jacob come. Bring all the–” the note ended there.
Mathew looked behind paper to see a bar code. Josh finished looking around the greenhouse, and walked over to the waterfall. He looked on the bedrock to see a sign of anything. His shoes got slightly wet. He walked back onto the grass and stopped for awhile, as he took in everything he just did. He then walked over to the fence of the property, and put on his latex gloves and began looking behind rocks with his magnifying glass. He looked under leaves. By that time, Josh had walked over about half the area of Rush falls and le Domaine Élégante. Josh walked back to where Mathew was.
“Did you find anything?” Josh asked him.
“Yes. I found some weird note. But not much else. Did you find anything?” Matt asked.
“No. I was looking at the footprints though, and for the most part, there’s nothing interesting, but there seemed to be an area where the dirt was kicked up, like there was a struggle or something, or someone stumbled.” Josh said.
“Well we’ve looked all over. All the areas where the cops didn’t.” Mathew said.
“I bet if Mr. Brandsworth were here, he’d be happy to see us all walking all over his fancy lawn.” Josh said.
“Yeah. He’d be real happy to see all of us.” Mathew said.
“What does the note say?” Josh asked.
“Nothing really. It doesn’t really make any sense.” Matt said.
They both finished, and went towards the walkway. Jack put back his magnifying glass as they walked up.
“I see you got a lot of work done there!” Josh said to him.
“Where are the detectives? I need to give them my evidence.” Mathew said to Josh.
“I’m not sure. There’s a finite number of people here anyway.” Josh said.
“How long can old people talk?” Mathew said. “I don’t know, but they’ve probably finished talking awhile ago, and were walking back to the entrance the whole time.” Josh said.
Finally, Sam and Bill came out from inside the mansion with the three college students standing together.
“Good! did you guys find anything?” Sam said.
“Yes! I found a note on the ground next to the mansion!” Mathew said.
“Let me look at that.” Samuel said, as he reached into his car to put on latex gloves. He read the note.
“Quite an interesting find.” Sam said. He put the note in a plastic ziplock bag, and placed it in the trunk of his car.
“I noticed all the servants were white.” Mathew said.
“Mr. Brandsworth doesn’t like foreigners, and is always worried about getting in trouble for hiring illegals.” Sam said.
“What did you find, Josh?” Bill asked.
“Nothing much. I’ve just been looking at some footprints. There seems to be two sets of footprints. One with a pattern that looked like cleats. The footprints seemed to lead from the doorway of the mansion, and off to the inside of the greenhouse, and appears to turn around, and lead back, and there’s an area where dirt is kicked up, like someone stumbled. Having to judge from the poor quality of the footprints, I would guess the individual with the cleats was a size VII.” Josh said.
“Interesting. We need to find matches on the footprints to determine who was wearing the shoes.” Bill said.
“And Jack, did you find anything?” Samuel asked.
“Yeah. I found some cracks in the walk part.” Jack said.
“That’s really not much of anything that you found with that magnifying glass there. You hardly found anything, you imbecile! You only accomplished burning ants!” Samuel said.
Jack looked pissed off. “Hey! I did my work too!” he said.
“Well anyway. I think it’s about time for us to take a break, so why don’t you guys head over to the Brandsworth lobby and get some snacks.” Sam said, as he handed each of them several dollar bills.
“That’s one of the ways he makes money. Anyway, just head off the main entrance pathway, onto the smaller one, and just behind the Abor Atrii, you’ll find the Brandsworth lobby.” Sam continued.
The men walked for awhile until they reached a square with a tiled walkway. As they walked up, the Brandsworth lobby was in view. The men headed in. As they walked in, a man behind the counter was there. The men weren’t sure what to do, so they decided to just order something. Mathew ended up being the first to speak.
“Yeah, I’ll just have a corn dog.” he said.
“Can I get any of you guys anything?” the man behind the counter said to the other two.
“I’ll have three martinis.” Josh said.
“Oh! You’re ordering drinks for us?” Jack said.
“No, they’re all for myself.” Josh said.
They sat down at a table. Jack got a Snicker’s from the vending machine. A man walked into the lobby behind where the guys were sitting. He was
wearing a Hawaiian shirt, had a darki-sh complexion, curly hair, and a pointy nose, giving him an Italian appearance.
“Ayyo! You guys liking the hang out?” he said.
“Yeah we’re fine.” Matt said.
“You kids ain’t working for Mr. Brandsworth are you?” the guy asked.
“No… Yes. We are.” Josh said.
“Hey, well that’s cool. You gotta make money somehow, right?” the southern European looking man said.
He finished talking to the guys and went to the counter and ordered a drink. “We need to get the main problem which is who the murderer is. Who do you guess is the most likely?” Josh said.
“Probably Henry Brandsworth, or that angry groundskeeper guy.” Matt said.
“Mr. Brandsworth’s son is an easy target, but anyone could’ve done it.” Josh said.
“Maybe if we could find the murder weapon that would help.”, “That would. But we looked everywhere, and so did the cops.”, “We didn’t look inside the mansion though.”, “But the cops looked all over the mansion.”, “What if we go in ourselves and see if there’s any clues that might tell us about where the murder weapon might be, and go where the cops might’ve overlooked.”, “If the detective guys let us in, then maybe we can take a look and see.”, “Does he have a swimming pool in his house?” Jack asked. “We’ll have to see that.” Matt said. “That guy, Martin Brandsworth, has so much money. He has all these people tending to his lawn, and bushes, and not to mention his huge mansion. We could be living like that, if we owned a big golf course.” Josh said.
“I’d have my own race track outside my mansion, and would be do laps in my Ferrari.” Mathew said.
“The detectives owe us a look inside there.” Josh said.
“Yeah, I’d like to see what it’s like anyway. A rich business man’s house is something I’d like to see the inside of.” Matt said.
“Then why don’t we see if we can take a look in.” Josh said.
“Yeah we should. It won’t be wasting our time anyway.” Matt said.
“Have the detectives asked anything of that angry groundskeeper?” Jack asked.
“I don’t know. I’m sure they’ve done almost everyone who’s of suspicion. If they got anything interesting, they would’ve told us.” Josh said.
“Why would a groundskeeper want to do it?” Mathew asked.
“I don’t know. It’s not like Mr. Patterson knew any of them. And what’s to gain from killing him?” Josh said.
“Maybe someone paid him to do it.” Matt said. “But for what?” Josh said.
“We’ll have to find answers for all of this. Anyway, why don’t we go back to where the detectives are, and see if we can search his mansion.” Mathew said.
“Alright. Looks like we got an objective.” Josh said.
Matt finished his corn dog, Jack ate his Snicker’s, and Josh finished his three martinis. They all got up, and walked back through cherry blossom surrounded pathway to the main walkway, leading to the mansion where they last conversed with the detectives. Sam was leaning on the side of his car eating a croissant. Bill was drinking a cup of coffee which he’d left in his car several hours earlier.
“Alright. Good you guys are back. I think we’ve met our accomplishments for today’s work, my friends.” Sam said.
“That’s good. One thing I ask of you though.” Matt said.
“What can I help you with?” he responded.
“I would like to go inside Mr. Brandsoworth’s mansion for any clues we might find if you will let us. I know the police had already searched
there. But I’d like for us to. I promise we’ll be quick. Can we? ” Matt said.
“Well I just spoke with one of the main businessmen who works with Mr. Brandsworth. He showed me around the whole mansion. But I suppose I can ask the maid, Ms. Everson if we can go again. I will knock on the door. And we’ll see if she’ll be willing to show us around.” Sam said.
“Good then. We’ll be of as much help as we can.” Matt said.
“Cool! Does he have a swimming pool in there?!” Jack said.
“No swimming pool there.” Sam said. “I’ve seen every area in the mansion. Or at least I hope I have.” he continued.
They walked over to the big french door, and Sam gave it a big knock. They waited awhile, with no one to show up.
Finally, the maid Ms. Everson answered the door.
“Hello. Me and my friends here wanted make a quick visit inside here. They came along with us, and wanted
to look around the area if you will let us. They’re hoping of becoming detectives like us, and they
want to get they’re full detective work for today, so they wanted to come in and have a look.” Sam said.
“Oh of course. Come in.” Ms. Everson responded.
Sam walked in, along with Bill, and behind them, the rest of the men.
Upon entrance, a large carpet over the tiled floor led through the hallway from the entrance. Gold statues were there, along with paintings on the walls.
“I will lead all of you through the hallway, and through the living room where I usually lead the guests. Once I do that, I will point to where the guest rooms are.” Ms. Everson said.
“Okay. Very well then.” Sam said.
“Is there anything else I can do for you?” Ms. Everson said.
“No, that’s it.” Sam replied. They walked through the long hallway, where there were pictures of the billionaire Mr. Brandsworth on the wall.
“Who is that man there?” Josh asked, pointing to the picture.
“That’s Mr. Brandsworth.” Sam said. “He’s been taking the high fat diet I see.” Josh said.
They walked more, and finally reached the living room, where there was a giant T.V. covering the wall, with gold metal around the frame. A giant
couch was in the center, and a fireplace was on the right.
“I will leave all of you here. The guest rooms are over to the right when you walk past the living room. If there’s anywhere else you would like to
know where to go, I will tell you.” Ms. Everson said.
“Alright, guys. We’re inside.” Sam said.
“Can you tell me where the kitchen is?” Mathew asked Ms. Everson.
“Yes, go past the living room, and through those two rooms, and you’ll reach the kitchen.” Ms. Everson said.
“Alright.” he said. Mathew left and walked over to the kitchen. Jack searched behind the drapes in the living room.
“Can you tell me where the bedrooms are?” Josh asked.
“Yes, they’re up the stairs.” Ms. Everson answered.
Josh walked upstairs to where he guessed where Martin Brandsworth’s bedroom as. There were several doors down the hallway which
faced him. At the very end, was a French door with brass handles. He suspected that one was Martin Brandsworth’s. He
contemplated whether to open it. As Mathew walked into the kitchen, he saw a row of knives. They were hanging on
two hooks on the wall. There was a big one, a smaller one, and an even larger one. But next it it, was an array
of empty hooks. Mathew began to look stern. There was no knife hanging on the two hooks. He had a suspicious look on
his face. He made up his mind, and left the kitchen, and started towards the area next to where the staircase was. Sam and Bill
were there, speaking to the maid Ms. Everson. Mathew walked up to them.
“Can you tell me where the guest rooms are?” he asked Ms. Everson.
“Yes, they’re up the staircase. They’re the doors you see on the right.” she said.
“And can you tell me which room Henry Brandsworth had stayed?” Mathew asked.
“The second door you’ll see.” she said.
“The cops have already searched that area!” Bill said.
“I know, but let me take a look.” Matt said.
Matt cautiously walked over to the door. He put his hand on the door nob and turned it, to see that it was indeed unlocked.
He put on his latex gloves, and began looking around. He looked in the top drawers of the desk. He then looked in and behind several
vases. Finally, he looked behind the pillows of the bed, and under the sheets, and then under the bed itself. He made one more absolute
final check, and lifted up the end mattress from the mattress stand, to be unexpectedly astonished by what he saw. A kitchen knife was
under the mattress. Mathew was absolutely speechless, his eyes widened, and his heart beginning to pound, he let go of the mattress, and
ran back out of the room.
“Guys! Guys! You won’t believe what’s going on!” he yelled towards the end of the staircase.
“What? Did the queen of England die?” Sam said.
“No– no!!!! There’s a knife under the mattress of the bed where Henry Brandsworth stayed!!!” Mathew anxiously yelled back.
“What?! I have to look at this. Excuse me.”. Sam barged through, with Bill by his side, as they hurried up the stairs.
They went inside the room, only to see the utter incomprehension that awaited them. They lifted up the mattress.
“There is indeed a knife under there. Unbelievable. And where the cops didn’t even look. There’s no blood that I see on it,
but perhaps it was cleaned off.“ Sam said.
“I think we know what this means.” Bill said.
Sam took a picture of the spot under the mattress with his phone. He then put on his latex gloves, and picked the knife up.
“We need to get Jack and Josh.” Sam said.
They walked out of the room, down to the entrance. Sam called them.
“Guys! Hurry up!” Sam yelled. Josh and Jack hurried back to the entrance with surprised looks on their faces.
“Matt found this under the bed where Henry Brandsworth had slept. Quite remarkable. I think we now have the answer
to who murdered Collin Patterson.” Sam said. They all walked out of the mansion, to the front pillared walkway.
“I knew it! Henry is done!” Matt said.
“This isn’t proof that this is the murder weapon, but it strongly points to it being so. Henry Brandsworth better have a good explanation.” Bill said.
“But what if someone else is behind it, and made him do it?” Josh said.
“Who else would want to do it? He would be the only one.” Matt said.
“Or what if it was a setup! How do we know?!” Josh said.
“Either way, Henry Brandsworth is in deep trouble for having this in the bed he had stayed in.” Sam said.
“Either way, what we have now gotten from under the mattress is truly damning evidence.” Sam said.
“Oh cool! We can swear now?! Bitchin’!” Jack said.
“Congratulations, Mathew, on your extraordinary find. That should be the end of our work today.” Sam said.
Samuel, Bill, and Matt walked towards Police Commissioner Charles Beaton, who was standing next to his police cruiser. Josh and Jack
nonchalantly followed.
“I see you actually found something there!” Police Commissioner Charles Beaton said.
“Yes! Actual evidence! The weapon itself! Thanks to my young friend here, Mathew, the weapon has been found, right under the mattress
at which Henry Brandsworth had stayed. Once we obtain the fingerprint evidence on the handle of the knife, it will be proven! It is over for Henry!” Samuel said, as he put the knife in a plastic bag, and put it in the trunk of his car.
“Henry Brandsworth? I always new it was Martin Brandsworth’s mischievous little son! Finally the case will be done, and Collin Patterson will get justice once he is convicted!” Commissioner Charles Beaton said. The IV of them were at the end of the driveway, where the police cruiser and Sam’s car were parked, while Jack and Josh stood midway between the mansion and the gate entrance.
“We finally caught him, man! That wealth hungry criminal will have the sign of culpabilité written all over his face, and will finally be brought to justice!” Sam said.
“You don’t have proof he did it! You only found a knife in the room where Henry Brandsworth had stayed! That doesn’t mean he did it!” Josh yelled.
“The city will be grateful . It’s good we finally have one of the key pieces of evidence! What luck!” Police Commissioner Charles Beaton said.
“There is nothing good or ordinary about a knife under the mattress of someone’s bed. Especially when a murder happened!” Sam said.
“It’s good they found the guy, huh?” Jack said to Josh.
“They didn’t find the murderer, you moronic imbecile! They found a knife! That doesn’t even prove that he was the murderer! “The common curse of mankind, - folly and ignorance.” to quote the great William Shakespeare.” Josh said.
“Really? You’re quoting Shakespeare? He didn’t even do any good paintings aside from the Mona Lisa.” Jack said.
Sam made a hurrying motion with his arm at Josh and Jack. “Hurry up!” he said.
Josh and Jack walked over.
“Get over here, you guys. I’ll let Commissioner Charles Beaton drive you guys back to your campus. We’re done for the day. Gather all your stuff. ” Sam said.
Reply With Quote
Originally Posted by Alfred
Bookmarks