Page 38 of The Mercy Chair

‘Ah, just the man we’re looking for. I understand you’re in charge, Josh?’

‘I would appreciate it if you could make the effort to useallof my christened name, Sergeant Poe, not just the bits you can be bothered with.’

‘Fair enough,’ Poe said. ‘What was it again?’

‘Joshua. And the local constabulary was here yesterday. May I ask why the National Crime Agency is now involved?’

‘No, you may not,’ Poe said.

‘Then might I ask what you are here for?’

‘I haven’t decided yet.’

Joshua folded his arms and pressed his thin lips together. ‘This is a place of worship, study and meditation; I hope you’re not here simply to be disruptive.’

Poe turned to Bradshaw. ‘Are you feeling disruptive, Tilly?’

‘I’m never disruptive, Poe.’

‘How about you, Snoopy?’

Linus shook his head.

‘Seems none of us is in a disruptive mood today, Joshua,’ Poe said, opening the car door and climbing out. He arched his back and removed the cricks. ‘But we would like a look around.’

‘But—’

‘We’ll be as quiet as church mice.’

‘I’m afraid that won’t be possible.’

‘No?’

‘No.’

‘Why not?’ Poe asked.

‘Half the staff are in Keswick for the convention and the rest are either teaching or getting ready for tonight.’

‘What are they doing in Keswick?’

‘The convention is on,’ Joshua said, holding his gaze. ‘They’re spreading the word.’

‘Jolly good,’ Poe said. ‘And what’s happening tonight?’

‘A ceremony for graduating students. A small presentation followed by a chance to relax and socialise.’

‘Guess we’re stuck with you then.’

‘I’m sorry, Sergeant Poe,’ Joshua said. ‘I’d like to help, but Cornelius’s death has hit us all hard. It wasn’t just a terrible tragedy; given his founder-member status, it was also a huge blow to the organisation. The board is meeting soon to discuss his replacement and there is much to do.’

‘Murder,’ Poe said.

‘I’m sorry?’

‘You said “Cornelius’s death”. Did you not mean Cornelius’smurder?’

‘Slip of the tongue, Sergeant Poe,’ Joshua said. ‘Now, I’m sorry this has been a wasted journey for you all, but I really must be getting on.’

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