Beyond The Velvet Claws Chapter 8

Perry Mason, Paul Drake and Lieutenant Arthur Tragg stood in the now deserted office of Frank Locke. The room, looking as though a tornado had blown through, had been left a complete mess. Papers everywhere, pictures on the wall askew, and the typewriter and adding machine, left standing as though someone was in the middle of some type of business meeting or transaction and was forced to leave in a hurry.

The three men surveyed the scene in front of them. As soon as he saw the destroyed room, Perry's heart sank. He knew that Locke…that dirty rotten sleazebag had Della and that she was in trouble…..trouble that was way over her head. He was about to say something to Paul when his thoughts were interrupted by the Lieutenant.

"Perry, you better have a look at this"

"Tragg, I am in no mood for games." The attorney was out of his mind with worry and was doing everything he could to keep calm.

Paul walked over to where Tragg was standing. He glanced down at the item the Lieutenant was speaking of and walked over to his friend. Keeping his cool, the handsome P.I.'s voice held concern.

"Uh Perry, I think you really better look at this."

"Oh for pity sake." Perry now was clearly aggravated. He turned and in two long strides stood next to the Lieutenant. Without saying a word, Tragg looked down, then he raised his head, meeting Perry's piercing blue eyes with his tired brown ones.

Perry's faced paled and his breath came in quick deep gasps as he took the item from the Detective. He spoke in a shaken whisper, having trouble saying the words.

"It's…It's Della's…."

"Perry….."

"It's from the blouse she was wearing today Paul. The one with those little pearl buttons. The one she wears with that black suede skirt and short little jacket. She looks so beautiful in that outfit. It's funny, just this morning, she said that one of the buttons on the cuff was loose and she wanted to sew it on. I told her we didn't have time and that I would buy her another one when we went to lunch this afternoon…..lunch…..if she hadn't gotten some crazy notion in her head that she had to help me…..that's where we'd be right now." Perry's voice trailed off.

Tragg was careful in how he gave Perry the next bit of news. "Uh Perry, I think Locke left you some kind of message. This was laying on top of the sleeve from the blouse. Here's the note."

The men looked down at the slip of paper. It plain writing it said, "PLAY ME"

Perry pushed the play button on the recorder. Bracing himself to hear Della's voice, he was unprepared for what came on the tape.

"Well, well now Mason, so here we are. Yes, by this time you know I have your precious Miss Street. Oh she thought she was so clever. She even went as so far as to tell me that you had no idea that she was here. She wanted to help you. Yeah, she thought I wouldn't catch on to her little scheme. Well Mason, you know what they say, never con a con artist. I saw right through her. She started out well enough, but then she asked me if Spicy Bits had any publications anywhere other than L.A. say, San Diego. That's when I figured she knew too much. So I decided to pack up and head for the hills as they say. Oh don't worry about your pretty little missy here. She's safe….for the moment. You know, she's something alright, a real fighter. She don't give up easy, I'll say that much for her. After her little 'tirade' she was real sleepy so I just helped her a little and now she's taking a nap. Like I said she's alright for now. She'll even stay that way if you follow my directions. For now just go back to your office and wait for my phone call. Go by yourself. No police, no D.A. no Private Investigators. My demands are real simple. Two million dollars in unmarked bills. I'll let you know where to deliver the money. Yeah, yeah, yeah, that's a lot of dough but I know for a man like you that shouldn't be a problem. And I have something you want that's worth more than all that money don't I?

The tape went dead. Perry felt week in the knees. It was like all the energy was suddenly sucked from him. Paul pulled over the desk chair and helped his shaken friend to sit. Tragg was about to say something when Paul shot him a look, held a finger against his lips and shook his head no.

For some moments, an eerie silence descended over the room All three men were lost in their own thoughts. Tragg thought about how smart Della was…..how savvy and clever she was. He chuckled to himself thinking about Della and how she always ran interference for Perry….she always did it with a smile and her genuinely warm personality and when need be, could be tough as nails. As much as he could get frustrated with them, he secretly enjoyed the banter that went on between them. He really had great fondness for Perry's secretary, almost as if she were the daughter he never had. Yes, he certainly would help Perry get Della back safely. She meant too much to him not to try.

Paul leaned against the edge of the desk. How many times had the three of them been in Perry's office, Perry ensconced behind his desk, Paul himself sitting comfortably in the big client's chair and Della….beautiful Della sitting on the corner of the desk, legs crossed, notepad and pencil always in hand ready for any dictation….ready for anything. Paul couldn't remember a time when he hadn't called Della 'beautiful.' It seemed as though it was right at the beginning…..when Perry first introduced them. Paul had been out of town on a job for Perry. He had been gone a week and when he came back, the first thing he did after unpacking was go to his office, then walked down the hall to Perry's. He knocked in his coded way and the door was opened by the most beautiful brunette he had ever seen. He was so stunned he couldn't talk and Perry took this opportunity for some good natured teasing.

"What's the matter buddy, cat got your tongue? By the way, welcome back. I guess you have information for me don't you? Oh, before I forget, let me introduce my new secretary, Miss Della Street. Della, this is Paul Drake, the big lug I was telling you about this morning…..the one I 'warned you about" Paul, this is Della, the most amazing secretary there ever could be."

Della had smiled at him then and held out her hand. Paul would have swept her up right then and there except for one thing. All the time the three of them were talking, Paul noticed something that he didn't even think his best friend and his new secretary were aware of. They were already in love and there was no way in hell that Paul Drake was going to come between them. As time went on, the three of them became so close personally and professionally it was as though they were siblings. They were always there for each other, no questions asked, no thanks needed. Paul came to love Della like a little sister and he knew her feelings for him were mutual. Paul took a deep breath and stood up. He was ready to go. He would help Perry. He would do whatever it took to bring "beautiful" home safe and sound.

"We have to go." The voice seemed to come out of nowhere. "We don't have much time. He'll be calling the office soon and I have to be there."

It suddenly dawned on Paul and Tragg that Perry was speaking. He was slowly coming out of his numb feeling…..out of shock and was ready to go into motion. The P.I. and the Lieutenant knew better than to ask him to let them handle the situation. Perry rose from where he had been sitting and faced the men. "Come on, we better get going. Lieutenant, if you wouldn't mind meeting Paul and I back at my office, we'll fill you in on everything there.,

"Perry….."

"Lieutenant, please. While I do appreciate your help and while I am going to take advantage of our friendship, right now is not the best time to tell me what to do. After Della…after I get Della back, then you can say whatever you want…..after. I can't tell you how I feel. I only know one thing. That woman is my life and I am nothing without her." Perry picked up the ripped sleeve from Della's blouse and lovingly caressed the silky material. Folding it neatly, he placed it in his shirt pocket…the one over his heart. Then, he walked out of Locke's office with Paul and the Lieutenant following behind.

Her eyes felt heavy. She tried to open them but was having trouble. Something was on top of them, something was weighing them down. She tried again, blinking quickly as if doing so would make them open. She was determined but no matter how hard she tried, she wasn't haven't much success. She couldn't remember much. The last thing that flashed through her mind was the fight…..he was ripping her blouse and so she scratched him and kicked him. He yelled out, calling her a bitch. She didn't care. All she knew was that she had to get out of there and get back to the office….back to him…..back to where she felt safe and protected and loved…back to Perry. The next thing she knew, he hit her, sucking the air out of her. He stuck her arm with that needle. Then she was falling…falling down, down, down into a deep cavernous of nothing but darkness. Now all she wanted to do was to open her eyes but she was so tired. Try as she might, she couldn't fight it. The last thing that flashed through her mind before the blackness overcame her again was Perry and how worried he must be.

The phone was ringing as Mason and Drake walked into Perry's office. Gertie, who had been called and been apprised of the situation was keeping the office going in her ever efficient manner. As soon as she saw Perry, she put the caller on hold.

"Oh Mr. Mason…"

Paul held up his hand. Not now Gertie. Mr. Mason will talk to you in a few minutes."

"But Mr. Drake, you don't understand, there's a woman on the phone who says she's knows where Miss Street is."

Perry stopped dead in his tracks. Turning on his heels, he walked over to his receptionist, placed his hands on her shoulders and gave her an intense look.

"What did she say Gert?...did she give her name?….where is she?…..is she with Della?"

"I'm sorry Mr. Mason. I don't know. I didn't have a chance to get any information. She just called as you were coming through the door."

"Alright Gertie, thanks. Now if you'll do me a favor and give me a minute, then you can put the call through."

Gertie shook her head and Perry and Paul walked into his office.

"Well buddy, what do you think?"

"I don't know Paul, I just don't know. Right now, I'll take all the clues I can get. Listen, Tragg should be here soon. Do me a favor please, go out and tell Gertie that when Tragg gets here to just have him come right on in. Then ask her to put the call through. I'd like you to listen in on the extension…..in case I miss anything that might be important."

"Alright Perry, I'll be right back." Paul opened the door and went into the waiting room to relay Perry's instructions to the receptionist. Having done so, he quickly walked back into Perry's office and went over to the round table. Then giving the lawyer a nod of assurance the two men each picked up a receiver. Breathing deeply, Perry kept his voice even and tried to maintain a calm demeanor. He didn't know who or what else he would have to deal with and even though he was filled with beyond worry for Della, he knew that was the only way he would be able to help her.

Slowly he picked up the receiver and spoke in a clear professional voice.

"This is Perry Mason. How can I help you?"

For a moment there was silence on the other end. Perry was about to speak again when he heard a strained, frightened voice.

"It's me who can help you, Mr. Mason. I happen to know where your secretary is."

"Exactly how would you know that?"

"I just do that's all. Look, I am willing to tell you everything, everything you need to know to go and get her but I have to have a guarantee first…a deal."

"And what is it that you want?"

I want, what do you call it, when you are let go after you tell something?"

"Immunity from prosecution?"

"Yeah, that….that's what I want. I want that and I want to be able to get out of town so I can start over."

"How do I know you're telling the truth?"

"Does the name Wilson mean anything to you?"

Perry's face paled and his hand shook.

"So what if it does?"

"Look here Mr. Mason. Frank Locke killed Eva Belter and he'll sure as hell kill your secretary. I can be at your office in ten minutes. I think you really want to see me now don't you?"

"Alright, just come right on up. It's the Brent Building, suite 904."

"OK I'll be right there." The caller hung up.

In less than a minute, Lieutenant Tragg walked into Perry's office.

"Gertie said to come right in. She said you got some call from a girl who knows where Della is.

Perry sounded exhausted. If one didn't know better, they would think he'd been awake for hours but it was only two in the afternoon.

"Yeah, whoever it is swears she knows where Della is. At first I didn't believe her but then she mentioned Wilson."

Tragg gave Perry and Paul a curious look.

Perry continued. "She's supposed to be right here which means one of two things. Either she made that call from a phone booth right near here or she lives in one of the apartment buildings. The other thing that's strange is that Locke hasn't called. We don't even know exactly when he took her. The only thing we know for sure is that it had to be around eleven o' clock. Gertie said Della left here around 10:00…..right after Paul and I went to the bank. It only takes about 15 minutes to get there and rush hour is over by then.

"Perry, listen, if it's alright, I'll wait in the law library. I don't think it will help matters any if this woman knows she's spilling everything in front of the police."

"That will be great Tragg, thanks"

Tragg turned and walked into the law library. No sooner did the door closed behind him, the intercom on Perry's desk buzzed and the attorney flipped the switch.

Perry looked at Paul and answered the receptionist. "Yes Gertie?"

"Your appointment is here Mr. Mason"

"Fine Gertie, send her in."

A second later, the door opened and a woman, plainly dressed and appearing younger than her voice walked through. Her eyes warily took in the surroundings and occupants in the room. She stood, not moving and Perry broke the silence.

"Please come in and have a seat Miss…."

"Barnes, Kathy Barns"

"Miss Barns, thank you for coming in to see me." Although he was going crazy Perry assumed his professional manor.

Kathy Barns eyed Mason quizzically. "I thought we had a deal. I said I would give you the information and you said there wouldn't be any police."

"Mr. Drake is a Private Investigator. He helps me on some of my cases. He has nothing to do with the police. Now, why don't you sit down and we'll get started."

Kathy spoke up before Perry was able.

"Has he called yet?"

"Who?"

"Frank Locke"

"No, no he hasn't."

"Well don't worry, he will"

"Yes, I'm sure he will." You said you had information for me about Miss Street."

"Mr. Mason, you look like an honest guy. I've read about you in the papers and sometimes I see you on TV. So I'm going to be honest with you. Frank Locke is a dangerous man. I know because my ex and him….they're partners. See, Frank and Ted, that's my ex, go way back….to when they were kids. They used to get into all kinds of scrapes and stuff. Well, as they got older the trouble got worse. First there was robbery then Frank got into all that trouble in Georgia. Then he came here and hooked up with George Belter and you know the rest. I met Frank when he came to stay with me and Ted last year. Frank suggested our moving in together so it would be cheaper. So that's what we did. They planned this big job. Frank was working at Spicy Bits and little by little slowly embezzling money. Ted opened an account at the bank so nothing could be traced back to Frank. They started months ago and really had a tidy little sum. They always laughed because they said that Eva didn't know what was going on in front of her face. Then, a couple of months ago things changed. Frank came home one day and said there was trouble. Mrs. Belter came to him and accused him of stealing. He said he told her she was crazy but that now she was a problem that had to be taken care of. Then he said he thought they should just split the money 50-50 instead of thee ways since Ted and I were together anyway. It didn't matter that he stayed here all that time and I cooked for him and did all his stupid little errands and kept my mouth shut. Ted was no better and he didn't take up for me. That's when I decided to leave him but first I decided to get back at them. I stole the key and sent it to Mrs. Belter with an anonymous note. Anyway, Frank went nuts when he found the key at the magazine. He accused me but I played dumb and said how could I send it when I didn't know where it was and besides why would I do that? He said it didn't matter and that he and Ted would take care of everything. That's when I realized something was going to happen. After that, everything happened really fast. Frank killed Mrs. Belter and then he called Ted and told him if anyone should ask, he was with us in San Diego the whole weekend. We were there for a little getaway. When we came back I knew that I couldn't stay any longer so as soon as Ted left to take care of some things, I packed my stuff and went to stay with my friend. I'm staying with her now. Then this morning, that's when something really strange happened and I realized it had to do with your secretary. My next door neighbor called me. I left her the number where I could be reached in case of an emergency or something. She's sort of is a nosy body and loves nothing more than to look out her widow with binoculars. This morning she called me and told me that something funny was going on. I asked her what she meant. She told me she saw Frank carry a woman into the house. She said the woman was young but she looked like she was unconscious and she had dark hair. She said there was something familiar about this woman. She thought about for a while and then she realized it was your secretary. Your pictures were in the paper a couple of weeks ago from that big case you were involved in. Oh yeah, I guess you need to know where the house is. It's in Covina. I wrote down the address. Kathy reached in her purse, pulled out a slip of paper and handed it to Perry.

"So do we have a deal Mr. Mason? All I want is some money and a bus ticket out of here to Idaho. My sister and her family live there. She said I could stay with them till I got a job and an apartment….It's a nice quite little town. No crime, no trouble, just a town where you can have a decent life.

Perry, who had been listening to Kathy Barnes leaned across the desk and tapped his fingers together. Looking intensely into her eyes he said clearly, "Miss Barns, if what you are telling me is true and Locke does have my secretary then yes, when she's back here, you have my word, I will make sure you get what you want."

Kathy was about to respond when the door to the Law Library opened and Tragg came into the office. A look passed between the men and Tragg nodded his head.

"Miss Barnes, this is Lieutenant Arthur Tragg of the L.A.P.D. He's helping me with this and he's going to help you too."

"Miss Barnes, it's a pleasure to meet you. Thank you for coming forward with this information. It's very helpful. Now, if you would be so kind as to come with me. I have two officers in the waiting room. They're going to take you somewhere where you'll be safe until this is over."

Kathy jumped up out of the chair. With her voiced raised and her eyes flashing, she looked at Perry and said, "I should have known this would happen. I trusted you."

Perry held up his hand. "Miss Barnes, Kathy, you can trust me. Lieutenant Tragg is here to help me and he will help you. He's not here to arrest you. He's here to make sure nothing happens to you. I promise you can trust me. I'm really grateful for all your help…..you don't how grateful. So please, go with Lieutenant Tragg and I'll be in contact with you as soon as Miss Street is back and all of this is over."

Kathy sat back down and breathed a little easier. In a moment, she spoke again. "Alright Mr. Mason, you've convinced me. I'll do as you ask. I hope I won't be disappointed."

"Thank You Kathy"

"Alright Miss Barnes, come with me." Tragg took Kathy by the elbow and escorted her out the door. A minute later, he was back and sat in the chair that had just been vacated by the young woman.

Paul who had been silent turned to Perry. "Alright pal, what do you want to do?"

What do you think I want to do? I want to get in the car and drive to Covina and get Della back."

"You mean you believe her?"

"Perry took a deep breath and looked straight at Paul. "I have to believe her Paul, I have to"

"I know Perry, but it just seems so easy, a little too easy, you know what I mean."

Perry's eyes darkened and his voice was low and rough with emotion. "Paul, Della isn't here so nothing about this is easy."

"Perry," Tragg interrupted the men's conversation. "I know this is killing you. I want Della to come back safe too. That's why we have to wait…..we have to wait until we get that call from Locke. We just can't go tearing over there."

"You don't believe her do you?"

"Look, I'm with you. Right now we don't have a reason not to believe her but if we don't play it Locke's way, then we are taking a chance with Della's life and…."

Perry didn't wait for the Lieutenant to finish. "Damn it Tragg! I don't need you or anyone to tell me about taking chances. Don't you think I know that? Don't you think I know I have to wait for that bastard to call me? So help me, if he's done anything to her, you'll have to arrest me."

"Perry, Tragg knows that….we both do."

The lawyer ran a hand over his face and let out a deep breath. "You don't understand Paul. This was my fault."

"What are you talking about?"

"Della wasn't herself these past couple of days. I chalked it up to what was going on. I knew there was something she wanted to tell me but I didn't press on it. I figured she would tell me when she was ready…..and she kept saying she wanted to help me…..she would always help me. Don't you see Paul, I didn't watch her closely enough…..I didn't take care of her." Perry stopped talking and put his hands in his head.

Paul now realized that Perry was in trouble himself…..emotional trouble. His best friend was blaming himself and Paul knew that unless he snapped out of it, he wouldn't be able to handle what lay ahead. His concentration and focus would be impaired and for Perry, who was always at the top of his game, that would be very bad indeed.

The P.I. leaned forward and eyed his friend cautiously. He would have to be very careful in how he approached this. His manor was calm….his voice, low but firm.

Perry, this is not your fault and I'm not going to let you feel as though it is. More than that, if Della was in this room right now, you know she would say the same thing and she would be mortified to hear you talk like this. Boy, she would really give you a piece of her mind.

Perry didn't look up and Paul's voice rose just a bit in volume. "Perry, look at me man. I'm not finished."

Perry looked up and stared at his friend. Paul wasn't sure he was looking at him or looking right through him.

"I'm only going to say this once so you better pay attention. All of us who know you, know what you and Della mean to each other….how much you love each other. It's also very clear how you take care of her and watch over her and protect her…..how precious she is to you and how you treasure her…..the way you look at each other. I'll tell you pal, it's the stuff dreams are made of. You have a connection that defies logic. Talk about soul mates. Now I have one more thing to tell you. Della was determined. You know how she is. She made up her mind that she was going to do whatever it took to help you. She also knows you and knew that you probably wouldn't let her go off and confront Locke by herself. So Miss–Stubborn-Strong Willed-Independent just went off by her little old self and did what she wanted to do for the man she loved. This had nothing to do with you taking care her or watching her…..and Perry….wherever Della is she knows that you'll find her."

For a moment Perry didn't speak and Paul thought his speech had been in vain. Then Perry let out a deep breath. With the slightest tremor in his voice and fighting to keep his emotions in tact, he said "Thank you Paul. I guess I needed to hear that. Thank you for saying that and thank you for being my friend….No man will ever have a better one." Perry seemed to suddenly gather strength. His voice became stronger. "Alright let's get back to work and figure out our next move. There's a beautiful girl out there who's waiting for me to get her and bring her home.

Tragg spoke up. "Perry, the chief of police in Covina happens to be a friend of mine. "I'm going to go call him. I want to be ready when that piece of slime calls.

"Thanks Lieutenant, I really appreciate all your help….and your friendship too. For what it's worth it….it means a lot."

Tragg got up out of the chair and did something Paul Drake thought he'd never see him do. Arthur Tragg put his hand on Perry Mason's shoulder and gave him a comforting squeeze like a father comforting a child. Then without saying another word, the Lieutenant walked out of the room.

Frank Locke opened the door and walked into the darkened room. He walked over to the bed and looked down at the woman lying there. He put his hand on her shoulder. She recoiled at his touch and Locke gave a sinister laugh. "Oh good, you're awake. It won't be long now sweet cheeks. I'm gonna call you're Mr. Mason. I'd bet you'd like to talk to him."

Della glared at Frank Locke, brow furrowed with concentration as she worked to focus on her surroundings. Drowsy from the sedative he had given her, she still managed to convey the contempt of her captor. Her voice was slurred. "You….you'll nevvvver….get….a….awaaay with….this.

Locke laughed sarcastically. "Oh but I will doll, you see, you're my ticket out of here. I see you're really tired but you have to stay awake." Frank then went over to the small table in the corner and dialed Perry's office. The attorney picked up on the second ring

"Mason"

.

That's real good Counselor, you're right there and ready for me to tell you what to do. Do you have the money?"

"Yes, I have it."

Good, now here's what I want you to do. You leave right now and drive to this address. 4783 Birchwood Ave. It's in Covina. Remember, no police, just you. If I so much as smell a cop, the deals off and you'll never see your lovely Miss Street again"

"I want to talk to her."

"I thought you might. Tell you what I'm gonna do. I'm gonna put her on."

Frank put the phone to Della's ear. "Alright missy, you have 30 seconds."

"Per…Perry".….Della's voice was low and drowsy.

"Della, Della darling, are you alright?"

"Uh huh…I'm sooo….sor…ry….be….be care….fullll…..

"Don't worry baby, I'll be there in a little while. I love you."

"Lo….love you toooo….."

Frank pulled the phone away and spoke into it. Awww, ain't that sweet...You know Mason, I'm not such a bad guy. Your little secretary, she's real tired so I'm just gonna see that she takes a little nap now so she's all rested when she sees you. There was silence on the line, then Perry heard a strangled plea from Della.

"No, don't, please no, no. Then the line went dead.

Perry slammed the phone down so hard, it almost broke. His face was granite hard and his breath was coming in small gasps. "That son of a bitch, If he hurts her, I'll kill him. God knows what's done to her already….her blouse was ripped and he must have given her something to knock her out. I could hardly understand her. I think he gave her more because I could hear her tell him no…..then there was nothing."

"At least you know she's alright. That's something."

"What if Locke goes crazy and tries something funny before we get there?"

"He won't. He knows you'll do anything to get Della back. He wouldn't dare do something to ruin his chances of getting that money."

Perry gave Paul a blank stare. "He killed Eva Belter."

"Yeah, but Eva Belter didn't have the one thing Della has."

"What's that?"

"Paul's voice dropped and he looked his friend straight in the eye. "She didn't have anyone that loved her more than anything or anyone else and who would move heaven and earth to save her."

Despite the serious of the situation Perry had to smile.

At that moment, Lieutenant Tragg walked into the office. Alright guys, everything is all ready. Captain Sherwood has everything set up. By the time we get there the house will be under surveillance, and the men will be hidden out of sight. They'll wait till he gives them the signal. The case with the phony money is ready. We'll pick it up on the way. You drive with Paul. When we get there, Paul will stay with us and you'll take the case and go up to the front door. As soon as Locke answers, we'll go in the back. He won't know what hit him."

"Lieutenant, what about Wilson and…?"

Tragg laughed. You don't have to worry about him. Sherwood's men picked him up while he was making bets on the ponies at the neighborhood candy store.

"And Perry, you'll be able to get Della. As soon as we get Locke, you can go get your girl."

"Lieutenant….."

"You're welcome. You know how I feel about Della. Come on, we don't want to keep her waiting. She'd never let us forget it."

With that, the three men walked out of Perry's office, praying that everything would go according to plan… it had to…there was no room for mistakes.