Family Secrets

A Hope Holmes adventure Chapter IV

Hope Robin; Faith Robin

I stared out at the city. People that were dressed in their fancy gowns and suits in cabs, made their way across the Thames River, heading towards the opera. I was headed in the opposite direction. I took out the blackmail, envelope, pencil, and the pad of paper. I placed the blackmail into the envelope. I set underneath my leg so it wouldn't blow away. I picked up the pencil and tapped it against the paper.

'Where do I begin?' I wondered. 'With an apology? Or some description of the foul letter?' I began to write.

"Dear Father,

If you are reading this I must assume the worst has happened. In this envelope I have enclosed the blackmail, on which, I received only but a few hours ago. I apologize that I didn't tell you at first of what that letter contained. Unfortunately I have decided to try to keep you out of this matter as much as possible, for what I fear was an attempt to tell you to stay out of a case. However, whatever happens do not quit on my account. To be honest with you, I would rather die than to see you suffer. So I beg of you do not try to come after me. If I escape I promise I will come back or make some type of contact."

I crossed this out, tore out the paper and crumpled it into a ball. I placed the crumpled paper into my purse. I started again.

"Dear Father,

First of all I must apologize for not telling you. Yes I did expect something. If you recall I received a letter in the mail. This letter contained a message. I have placed this letter with this one. Soon after I questioned Mrs. Hudson to the person who had delivered the letter. I led her to believe that it was an admirer, to keep from having suspicion rise as a result.

I don't know who sent this letter, for as you will observe, there was no return address. What ever may happen, if I have been kidnapped and ransom is demanded. I beg of you do not allow your self to fall into their clutches. For all I know the sender could be watching me at this very moment as I am riding to a friends'. As you can see I have left this letter and its contents in the care of one of my former roommates, Ms. Sally Granger. I should warn you not to waste your time with her, for I will not reveal even the contents even to . She is one of the very few I have placed my trust in. With this, I must bid you goodbye for now. I hope to see you soon.

Your Daughter,

Hope Holmes.

P.S. I have enclosed my locket as well to ensure if I am captured that I can perhaps persuade my captors that they have the wrong girl. I love you and I'll see you later."

I looked the letter over with a critical eye.

'It will have to do,' I thought, stuffing the items back into my purse. I looked up, I was near my destination.

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