C1 Child of fortune
It had been four months had passed since the police of Whitechapel had investigated the brutal murder Silas Duggan. Duggan had met his end at The Drunken Monk, a notorious pub that was the haunt of criminals. Poison followed by a cut from a barber's razor had killed Duggan. Duggan had been murdered alongside policemen from Limehouse.
Detective Sergeant Albert Flight, along with a chemist named Mr Hemlock had been charged with the murder. However the evidence indicated the murder had been orchestrated by Inspector Shine in collaboration with a man from The City of London. The man was suspected of being Roger Drake, owner of an import and export business and leader of all criminal activity on City Land, a man who was also Sergeant Drake's younger brother.
The deaths of the Limehouse men had ensured the involvement of Abbberline and Monro in the case with the evidence of a City man bringing Ressler into the investigation. The help and insight of Abberline, Monro and Ressler had proven invaluable. Shine and Drake had both been summon to appear at Inspector Ressler's station house for questioning. Before ether man could be questioned Inspector Shine had been killed by a young man. The man's father had been killed by men working for Duggan. In the firefight that ensued Bennett had nearly been killed. Shine's death had derailed the police's plans to further question Roger Drake on the matter of Silas Duggan. With no conclusive evidence of Roger Drake's involved in the murder the police had been unable to charge him.
As a result Duggan's murder had changed lives forever. It had freed Long Susan from her dept. The new owner of Obsidian Estates, Mr Grosvenor (a wealthy banker), only wanting rent from her and free access to the girls. Most importantly he did not desire her, in fact he seemed to have an almost paternalistic care for her.
For Sergeant Drake it had brought much worry and fear as the younger brother he had been so proud of had been implicated in a serious crime. With Shine's death Chief Inspector Abberline had been personally placed in charge of Limehouse by Commissioner Monro with strict instructions to route at all corruption. Roger Drake along with Mr Grosvenor had been placed under the surveillance of Inspector Ressler. Only time would tell what changes this new world would bring.
It was a sunny June morning in what was shaping up to be a good summer. Temperatures had been slowly rising since the start of May and there had been just the right amount of rain. In the parks of London the grass was growing at an extraordinary rate, trees were full of leaves and the flowers were blooming. The good folk of London seemed in a good mood and life was good.
At the police station on Leman Street, Captain Homer Jackson walked through the door whistling at the start of the day. Jackson's life was much changed since the murder of Silas Duggan. In the midst of the investigation into Duggan's murder Long Susan had revealed she was pregnant. The news had been a mighty shock for them both. In the midst of the turmoil the news had been a blessing they had never expected. Four months on, with Susan now six months pregnant life was just perfect.
"Morning Drake," Jackson said happily, catching sigh of Sergeant Drake stood at the front desk chatting to Sergeant Arthertone.
"Morning Jackson," Drake replied, glancing up at the station clock which read eight o'clock. "Nice to see you're time keeping is getting better."
"Man's got to earn his wage."
"What's this? The American scoundrel become a responsible husband?" Drake asked sceptically, taking in the American's well-kept appearance.
"Indeed Sergeant it appears perspective fatherhood is having a good influence on Captain Jackson," Inspector Reid said, coming downstairs drinking his morning coffee.
For a moment Sergeant Arthertone, Sergeant Drake and Edmund Reid looked at the man in front of them. The past four months had wrought a dramatic change in Captain Jackson. He was still free spirit yet he was usual well kept, hardly drunk and very happy. His time keeping was improving, however he frequently need to be dragged out of bed. The reason was not for his being drunk but because he wanted to spend time with Susan. This had led to some interesting scenes and Drake and Reid coming on the receiving end of Susan's increasingly sharp tongue.
"I made promises to Susan I don't want to break," Jackson replied proudly.
A sudden scream cut through the peaceful morning. Tumbling through the front door came a young girl with a baby clutched to her chest. Falling to the floor her back hit the stones with a thud yet the baby remained clutched to her chest. Fear was written across the girl's face, blood pouring from wounds on her arms and shoulders. Seconds later a rugged looking man lunged through the door brandishing a knife, his eyes fixed intently on the girl and child.
Before the man attack a bullet hit his left kneecap, sending him to the floor writhing in agony. In a flash the billy clubs of Inspector Reid and Sergeant Drake struck the man on his head knocking him out. Gasping for breath the trio were glaring murderously at the man. Jackson placing his gun on the front desk.
"Excellent shot Captain," Reid said, his voice icy cold.
"Reid take the child, Drake help me take her to the lab," Jackson yelled, kneeling down besides the girl. "Arthertone send to the London for a doctor and ambulance."
"We are police," Reid said kindly, gently taking the baby into his arms.
Looking at the girl Reid was overcome by a feeling of familiarity, near certain he had seen and spoken to her on several occasions. The girl was breathing raggedly yet her fear seemed to lessen, aware perhaps that she and the child were safe.
"Miss we're here to help you," Drake said, gently taking the girl into his arms.
Hurriedly the trio took mother and child into the lab. Gently Drake set the girl down on the empty slab. Looking at her he too felt sure he had met her before. Under the harsh lights the true extent and severity of the girl's wounds were clear, deep lacerations to her arms and shoulders, sever, but not mortal. She had been very lucky that the blows had not struck her throat or her heart, it appeared running had saved her life. With great care Jackson began to treat the girl, rage slowly growing in his heart at what had been inflicted upon her.
Under the bright lights of the lab the girl's appearance was clearer. She was no older than twenty. Her green dress was of middling quality, her dusty black hair streaked with blood from a head wound. Yet bar the wounds she was well kept, not a poor girl but one of the middle class. Strange then why anyone would wish to attack her.
As Jackson treated the wounds the girl whimpered in pain. In Reid's arms the baby cried softly, its soft hazel eyes gazing up with fear while desperately searching around for its mother. Looking down at the small life Reid's heart was filled with compassion. In a fatherly motion he stroked the dark black head in an effort the comfort it.
"Captain take care of my baby," the girl whispered, grabbing Jackson's left wrist.
"Both of you are going to hospital. The baby will stay with you, Inspector Reid here will insist upon it," Jackson said kindly yet firmly, placing a bandage around the final exposed wound.
With one eye on the girl Jackson set about examining the baby. It was boy, small, no more than three weeks old with soft hazel eyes and dark hair. As he examined it Jackson was keenly aware of the significance of the event. Luck it seemed was with them, baring several bruises the baby was unharmed. Looking at one another Reid, Drake and Jackson felt a spike of anger race through their blood, cold looks coming their eyes and stiff determination that whoever was behind this would pay dearly.
For a while Reid, Drake, Jackson and the girl sat in the lab, with Reid sitting on a chair directly beside the girl. The girl was looking pale and terrified yet some colour had returned, the pain medicine having provided some comfort. She had fallen quiet yet her eyes were fixed on her child and she would smile at the trio from time to time. In Reid's arms the baby was sleeping peacefully, utterly oblivious to what was happening.
"Men from the London for you," Sergeant Arthertone said, poking his head around the door.
"Thank you Sergeant, send them in," Reid said kindly.
"Yes Inspector," Sergeant Arthertone said, smiling kindly at the girl.
A few minutes' later two porters in carrying a stretcher came walking in with a doctor striding behind them. The porters were wearing the uniform of The Royal London Hospital. The doctor was dressed in a sharp blue suit, his blonde hair was tied back in a short ponytail, with a blonde moustache and beard with sparkling hazel eyes.
"GOOD GOD MATTHEW JUDGE!" the doctor exclaimed dropping his bag.
"GOOD LORD RHETT YARWOOD!" Jackson exclaimed, walking over to greet him.
"How long has it been Matthew, four years?" Rhett asked in a strong Boston accent, slapping Jackson on the shoulder.
"Christ it has been! What brings you to London?" Jackson said grinning broadly.
"New job at The Royal London Hospital. We'll have to have up catch Matthew," Rhett said, hastily scribbling his address on a piece of paper. "Now then our patients."
With a skilled eye Rhett Yarwood looked closely at the girl as she was placed on a stretcher. The look on his face showing his concern yet mingled with a hint of relief. As Jackson explained the circumstances Rhett swore a couple of ripe oaths, a look of discussed appearing on his face. Taking the baby into his arms he turned to face the three men.
"Dr Rhett Yarwood, surgeon at The Royal London Hospital," Rhett said to Drake and Reid.
"Inspector Edmund Reid, you know my surgeon Captain Homer Jackson?" Reid asked, shaking Rhetts's hand.
"A pleasure to meet you Inspector Reid. Captain Jackson and I have been friends since medical school. Now I must depart with my patients," Rhett replied, his tone filled with quiet authority.
"Of course Dr Yarwood, the girl must be placed in a private room and make sure the child remains with her," Reid said firmly.
"As you wish Inspector, good day" Rhett said.
With great care the porters carried the girl out of the lab and Dr Yearwood left carrying the girl's baby. A sense of relief washed over the trio. Once the door had been shut the attention of Reid and Drake turned to Captain Jackson who was stood washing the blood from his hands.
"Captain Jackson this girl is known to you how?" Reid asked calmly.
"Names Viola Tanner, she was one of Susan's. I'd not seen her in about six months," Jackson replied heavily, turning off the taps.
"I know her as well Inspector, she's a friend of Bella's," Drake said, a touch of sadness in his voice as he leant back against Jackson's desk.
"It appears we have to visit Long Susan and Mrs Drake," Reid said, a hint of regret in his voice.
"Reid go gently, this could upset Susan," Jackson replied sharply.
"I will take the greatest care Captain," Reid replied kindly.
Together Inspector Reid, Sergeant Drake and Captain Jackson left the station. Stepping out into the bright light they were momentarily blinded. The air was warm. All three were glad they had left their jackets behind. It was a glorious morning, all around them was the flow of life. The merry calls of children on their way to school, the clap of horses hooves from handsome cabs and delivery carts. The shouts of stall holders, from bakeries came the delicious smell of fresh baked bread and a million other sights and smells mingling. There was a general air of good cheer that seemed infectious as everyone seemed to have a smile on their face.
Arriving at Tenter Street the trio slipped quietly into the house as the house as the clock struck half past eight. The house was filled with a soft, sleepy air with a shaft of light streaming in through gaps in the curtains. There was no sound other than the soft chiming of a smart grandfather clock. Leaving Inspector Reid and Sergeant Drake in the hall, Jackson softly walked up the stairs. Reaching the top landing he paused for a moment, trying to work out just what to say when Susan enquired as to the reason for the early call. It was not a conversation he was looking forward to having.
Gently walking into the dark bedroom the sigh greeting him melted his heart. Susan was curled up under the red bedcovers, both hands draped lovingly over her stomach, the light making her hair shimmer like gold. The soft silk green nightdress she wore seeming to glisten softly against her skin. Walking over to their bed Jackson sat down, gently kissing her cheek and stroking her hair. Smiling in reply Susan snuggled close to him, her eyes half open. Reaching out to take his hand she moved it from her hair to her stomach. Leaning in close Jackson wrapped his other arm around her body. Then from within both felt their baby kick. Smiles appearing on their faces as they enjoyed the moment.
"I love you Kitten," Susan whispered sleepily as the baby kicked again.
"I love you both," Jackson whispered kissing her cheek.
"I'm happy you could share this with me."
"I'm sorry Susan but Reid and Drake are down stairs. They need to ask you some questions," Jackson replied, a look of regret in his eyes.
"Could it not wait? It is still early," Susan replied, turning over onto her back.
"Sorry darlin' it's urgent."
"It brought you here now so I cannot be upset."
"Let me help you up."
Standing up slowly Susan got out of bed, Jackson wrapping a long silky dressing gown around her. Tying the belt around her waist Jackson gently knelt down, placing a kiss on her stomach causing Susan to smile. From a night she poured herself a class of water. As the water slipped down her throat Susan felt the refreshing coolness against her skin. Placing the glass down Susan walked towards to now open door where Jackson was standing. Walking out of the room they went slowly along the corridor, listening for any sign of movement from the girls rooms. Silence only persisting. Reaching the stairs Jackson placed an arm around her while holding tightly onto the banister with his other hand. Leaning against him Susan couldn't help but smile despite the circumstances.
Stepping into the hall the pair saw Inspector Reid and Sergeant Drake chatting about cricket. Seeing her causing the pair smile, her long golden hair was flowing down her back adding a romantic appearance. To their eyes she was glowing with happiness and Jackson was looking very inch the protective husband.
"Good morning Miss Hart, our apologies for the early call," Reid said kindly.
"I hope there is a good reason Inspector," Susan replied arching an eyebrow.
"The matter is sensitive," Reid begun, shifting uncomfortably.
"Susan this morning Viola Tanner and her baby were attacked," Jackson said, his voice heavy with sadness and regret. "They're safe. We've sent them to the London."
Hearing the words a cold shiver rushed through Susan's body. Both hands dropped protectively to her baby. Inside her the baby kicked as if sensing her fear. Instinctively Susan nestled into Jackson's embrace. Taking a deep breath Susan felt her husband's arms tightening around her. Looking up she saw the worry in his eyes mingled with fiery strength. At once ice cold strength came surging through her, her eyes flashing ferociously with a mixture of anger and protectiveness.
"Viola worked here for three years until one of our gentlemen took her as his own," Susan replied, her voice level and composed.
"When did you last see her?" Reid asked, flipping open his notebook.
"A week ago. We had kept in touch, she was happy."
"The name of the man? Have you seen him at all recently?"
"Mr G Capshaw."
"You have an address for this man I presume?" Reid asked, watching her closely.
"I do," Susan replied.
Walking over to her desk she drew out a piece of paper and a pen, neatly writing out an address. Looking at it Drake and Reid gave a yelp of surprise. The address was in a very respectable part of Whitechapel and was in fact two streets away from where Reid lived. Standing there Reid realized he had seen and spoken Viola Tanner on several occasions on the streets near his home. He also recalled seeing and speaking to a smartly dressed young man who was with her daily. It seemed the case had taken an interesting turn.
"As you are aware that street is close to my own. I have met Miss Tanner and Mr Capshaw on several occasions. I always presumed them a married couple," Reid said, a trace of concern in his voice.
"Mrs Hart can you think of any reason why someone would want to hurt Viola Tanner? A business associate of Mr Capshaw's perhaps?"
"Sadly Inspector on that I cannot help you. Investigate the Capshaw family though, there could be reasons I am not aware off," Susan replied sadly.
"Our thanks Mrs Hart. Drake, Jackson time to investigate the house," Reid said, his tone softer.
"Our apologies for the early start," Sergeant Drake apologetically.
"Susan none of this will come back to you. Anyone comes asking questions you come straight down to Leman Street," Jackson said, disentangling himself from her arms.
"I will Matthew," Susan replied, her eyes flickering to the other two men. "Try not to get hurt."
"Don't worry Mrs Hart we'll keep him out of trouble," Drake replied with a grin as the trio walked out the front door.