CHAPTER 7: THE MAID
Breathing heavily the woman finally stopped in front of the two young detectives. But why? "I know you're not writing for your school newspaper…" she started. Fearfully Bo and Jeffrey exchanged looks.
"I've got no idea what you are talking about." Jeffrey said, acting as if he didn't lie. But the woman didn't leave.
"There is not much time," she continued hastily, "and trust me, if you two are reporters then I'm the Queen of England." The woman had rendered Jeffrey speechless. But Bo was still able to ask questions and he took the chance with both hands.
"What do you want from us?" he asked the stranger.
"No, no, no…It's what you want from me. You did came to Mr. Forbes to prove the innocence of your friend, didn't you?" For the second time that day Bo's jaw dropped.
"How did you know, who are you?" Bo asked after getting his act together.
"I'm sorry. I should have introduced myself. I'm Elisabeth Finch and I work for Mr. Forbes…I overheard you talking to Mr. Forbes and I knew I had to give it to you." she explained. "Just call it a hunch."
"Give us what?" Jeffrey asked, finally able to speak again. Mrs. Finch reached into the pocket of her skirt and handed them an envelope. "I know who really robbed him. Find him and free your friend…Sorry, I have to go." Then she turned and walked back towards the house. Bo and Jeffrey looked at her in amazement. Then she turned and raised something in the air.
"Thanks for finding it. I'll make sure Mr. Forbes gets it back." Jeffrey's pupils widened as he frantically started to search his pockets. The watch wasn't in his pocket anymore. Although it was weird, it was best to return the watch. Otherwise they could have ended up in jail themselves.
"Guess, you're not the only magician out here." Bo grinned. Jeffrey gave him a glare before both boys turned their attention to the envelope. It was blank. Slowly Jeffrey tore it open and reached inside. He touched something and slowly removed it from the envelope.
In his hand was now the picture of a man. And somehow Jeffrey had the feeling he knew him. It just didn't come out. A chill went down his spine and Jeffrey quivered. "Who and where are you?" he muttered to the silent face…
TO BE CONTINUED…