Chapter 12
At 5AM the next morning Chet's wrist watch alarm clock went off. He groggily looked up, then over to Callie. She was snuggled up close to him. He smiled with contentment for a moment, then reached over and kissed her gently on the cheek. As if she knew such pleasure even asleep she began to flutter her eyelids slightly and soon her gaze caught Chet looking down upon her. She smiled.
"Good morning sweetie." she said half sleepily, "What are you looking at?"
"Just the most beautiful woman I've ever seen." Callie cracked a bigger smile and looked back to him.
"You must be blind mister. I haven't done my makeup in almost three days and am wearing the same clothes. If it weren't for that natural spring out there I'd probably smell as bad as I look." Chet smiled.
"If this is you on a bad day, I am signing on permanently." They kissed deeply and repeatedly. Chet soon found himself feeling her warm body and kissing her neck. She moaned softly.
"Ahem, Chet." Callie said softly, "This probably isn't a real good idea. You sister is in here with us for one.." Chet looked up, and then over to where his sister was laying. She was beginning to awaken. She swung herself over into their direction. She flailed the covers in an effort to get air. In the process she flung the covers from her chest. When Chet realized she wasn't wearing a top he flushed red. Callie looked over to her also.
"Well Cal, are you as uncomfortable as me?" he half chuckled then looked over again. "Not to sound weird or anything, but I hadn't realized what a nice rack my sister had." Callie looked at him with mock disapproval. Then looked back over to Iola.
"Uhm, yeah. She certainly hasn't anything to be ashamed of." She starred for a moment, then cleared her throat.
"Hey Iola. You might want to get up. It's morning." Callie said somewhat loudly. Iola's eyes fluttered a bit more, then opened. She blinked slowly.
"Yeah, I'm up." She looked over to Callie, and then Chet. They were both trying to gaze in another direction. Iola then woke up enough to look down and realize she was hanging out.
"Oh my. I'm sorry. That was probably awkward." She giggled looking at her brother turning red.
"It's ok Chet. After all, I saw your, uh, well you know what I saw a couple days ago. And Callie has seen me like this a few times I'm sure." Callie cleared her throat.
"Not lately. Did you go see a plastic surgeon when I wasn't looking girl?" Iola smiled.
"No, Cal. They just kind of appeared like this overnight though a couple years back. But, I guess unless you're into talking to Joe about my breasts you probably wouldn't have such knowledge." she giggled. "Ok, turn your back while I throw my clothes one. Chet and Callie obliged her and sat with their backs to her. A moment later she was dressed and threw her shoes on.
"I will go see about breakfast. You guys get dressed." She said leaving the tent. Callie and Chet proceeded to dress and soon emerged from the tent themselves. They found Iola starting to fry some bacon and the others were mostly up and milling about the camp. Chet poured himself a cup of coffee that was eventually made earlier that morning. He took a sip.
"Wow. Mr. Hardy, were you making coffee again?" He asked when Mr. Hardy walked over. Fenton Hardy had a history of making some powerful coffee. He grinned to Chet.
"How could you guess? The double strength? That's what keeps me goin."
"Pretty powerful." Chet agreed. He took another swig and shrugged a bit due to the strength of the drink.
"Chet, you've eaten breakfast at our house enough times to know that the coffee is mighty strong." Joe needled. Chet smiled.
"True Joe, but Mrs. Hardy usually adds hot water to mine and it doesn't taste like full lead gasoline. But, you guys should be running like tops today." Mr. Hardy grinned and walked over to him with a rucksack. He set it down next to Chet.
"Here's your duffle with some clothes and such we need to get washed when you return. When you take the girls back, make sure you remember some other changes of clothes. He nodded slightly down towards the duffle. Then he sat and drew another cup of coffee.
"Your all set. The goods are in the bottom lining. Make a path for your boat. For once your safely in the powerboat and headed back the risk will be less. But still keep your eyes open. After all, you are carrying some pretty pricey goods. You will need to get to New York City as soon as you can. When you do get there, find Mr. Rabinowitz with Tiffany at their headquarters store. They will take care of the rest. They are delighted to know the real jewels are headed back to them." Chet smiled.
"Let's hope we have a nice boring trip back." He said. "Though it makes me a bit nervous to think about transporting that much." Fenton hardy gave a sly smile.
"Well Chet, I am betting that Tiffany and their insurance will compensate you well for your deed. I won't offer to guess at what they may give you, but I am sure it will at least help you absorb some of the costs you have laid out for this case. You had to buy that new boat and many supplies. I am confident Tiffany will at least help you pay for a portion of these expenses.. But as you said yourself, it's not a reward you were even after. So, whatever they give you will be a bonus." Callie smiled.
"I am just happy that we get a trip to New York City out of it. Maybe we can look around while we are waiting on those fake jewels to be made." Fenton Hardy nodded.
"I am sure you will have a couple days at minimum to get a break. For anyone to duplicate that jewelry, even with fake stones and gold it will take a bit of time. They still have to make it look exactly like the real deal." A moment later Iola passed out plates and announced breakfast would be momentarily. Kelly and Jackson walked into camp.
"Nice quiet night, boss." Kelly drawled. "Not a peep from anyone, but the wildlife here about is a bit more active than back home. Lots of owls about here." Jackson smiled and agreed. Mr. Hardy took a plate of food offered by Iola.
"Thanks, darlin'" he said appreciatively. "Jackson, I want you to take that hired arm to the state police headquarters up river. They are usually a little more agreeable than some of the local constables." Agent Jackson nodded.
"Yes, sir."
After breakfast, Chet, Callie and Iola, armed with weapons and the rucksack of concealed jewels set off for Chet's boat.
"If you get into trouble, use the radio." Mr. Hardy advised. Chet and the others nodded as they headed off into the direction of the river.
Joe seemed apprehensive as they vanished over the rise.
"I hope they will be alright." He said quietly. Tony planted a hand on his shoulder.
"They will be ok Joe. Remember, Chet is armed with enough firepower to invade Iraq. Plus, the girls are packing heat. They will be fine." he said. Frank stood up and smiled to his brother.
"Sure Joe. Hell, Chet will probably be so on alert he will be tossing grenades at bunny rabbits. No one will get near them." Fenton Hardy stepped up.
"Ok boys, let's get it together. We have a full day ahead."
Chet and the girls headed swiftly in the direction of the river where Chet's boat was docked. They looked about cautiously as they walked briskly along.
"You think if the gang was watching, they bought it?" Iola asked. Chet shrugged.
"I'm not all that sure we were being watched. I think if we were, that we'd have been hit for the goods. But I guess you never can tell. They knew we had sufficient firepower, so it wouldn't be an easy picking type thing." Callie smiled but was apprehensive.
"I will just be glad when we get to the water and in the boat. It's not like we are driving along the freeway in a Brinks truck." Chet laughed.
"We will probably be more subject to crime once we hit New York City. And that has nothing to do with the goods we are carrying."
They continued on at a quick pace. Fifteen minutes later Iola declared she needed to take a brief rest. Chet pulled out a large bottle of water and passed it around.
"Take a drink." he panted. "We are making pretty good time. Should hit the boat in less than 30 minutes."
"Then what's the plan, Chet?" Iola asked. Chet smiled.
"Pretty simple. We just head back to Bayport. Dock the boat and then head by car to the Big Apple." he said. Iola nodded.
"Sounds good for sure." she said happily. "Ok, let's get out of here before someone sees us." Chet smiled and nodded.
"Cool. Let's do it." He led the way with the large rucksack slung across his back. The thickets became denser towards the river. Chet ever present to the possibility of danger kept his weapon ready as he led the way towards the river. Iola and Callie kept equal watch with their weapons drawn.
15 minutes later the river came into view. They rushed up to the edge. Chet looked up and down the river to gain a position.
"The boat should be south a little bit." he finally said. The others nodded and followed him as he led the way down along the river's edge. Sure enough ten minutes later they arrived at Chet's covered boat.
"Quick, let's get her uncovered and get out of here." Chet said beginning to remove the branches that covered the craft. With Iola and Callie's help they had uncovered the large boat in record time. Chet and the girls jumped in and Chet began to make a check of the motors and make sure all was in order. A few minutes later he was convinced the boat was fine and ready to roll. He hopped into the captain's seat and turned over the motors. With a steady growl they fired up and began churning. Chet looked to the two with a smile.
"Hold the sack in front of you and watch the river's edge as we get out of the hollow. There may still be surprises as long as we are in the hollow." Callie and Iola nodded and looked about as Chet pulled the craft around and headed out of the hollow.
"How soon till we are out of the hollow, Chet?" Iola asked. Chet looked at his watch.
"About two hours at most. As long as conditions hold it may be quicker. Then say another 4 hours fast travel to Bayport." This seemed to comfort the girls. Chet picked up speed and guided the craft expertly through the river channel. After a while they relaxed. Callie brought out the water bottle and passed it around. She kicked back in her seat and looked down at herself.
"God, Iola. I look like a half drown rat. No makeup. Clothes that needed changing three days ago, and my hair. Oh, I won't even start on that." she shook her head. Iola grinned.
"Well Cal, I can relate to you. That is the one bad thing about camping. Most of the modern conveniences are given away in the bargain for nature and tranquility. But cheer up. We will be home soon and get new clothes. And I'm sure will have time to do something with our hair and makeup. And then we can go to New York! Callie smiled.
"I am so sure I will fit in there. I'm not exactly with the times Iola." Chet smiled and turned around having overheard the two.
"Hey Cal,, here's a newsflash. Your beautiful! And also, if you'd like to shop for some "contemporary" attire, you are more than welcome to. In fact, I will make it a mission to help however I can to make you feel more contemporary. It will be fun!" Callie blushed at the compliment.
"I can't wait, Chet. Hopefully, it will be fun. Maybe I can shake the librarian image just a little." Chet grinned
"Then it will be our mission, once we dump the jewels. What say, Iola? You want to look a little more hip?" Iola looked peevishly at her brother.
"Do you think I need to be, bro? I thought I was doing ok. But I guess I couldn't pass up a chance to get my hair done in New York!"
Chet looked over towards the right bank. He froze, staring intently. He swore he saw the figure of a man crouched in the bushes near the river's edge. Not wishing to give the person any more time than possible to cause trouble Chet threw the throttle out. The big craft immediately reacted and lurched forward. The girls were taken off balance and were thrown back into the cargo bay. Chet kept an eye on the area where the man was. Too his amazement though, his boat went through the area unimpeded.
Callie and Iola emerged up from their toss. Iola looked peevishly to her brother.
"What was that all about, Chet?" she said straightening her hair. Chet pointed over his shoulder.
"I saw a figure crouching in the woods by the river. I thought he might have a rifle or some other weapon to use against us. But it appears he did nothing."
"I wonder why..." Callie mused. Iola looked about.
"I bet he was a sentry. Basically put there to keep a lookout and not necessarily do anything." Chet nodded.
"Pretty good theory, sis. Makes sense."
"I'm just glad he didn't try anything." Callie said uneasily. These guys sound pretty desperate. They are not only thieves, but terrorists. These people could threaten national security. No wonder they are willing to kidnap and murder. It seems not much is really sacred anymore." Chet looked kindly to her. He reached into a storage box.
"Hey, how about some tunes? Lighten the mood." Callie and Iola eagerly nodded. Chet smiled and placed one of his Aerosmith CDs into the boat's audio system. A moment later the shrill tone of Steven Tyler singing "Walk this way" was cranking.
"Oh Chet. I forgot you like Aerosmith. They rock." Callie smiled to him. "Frank was never into them. We would always have to listen to that new alternative crap he liked." Chet shuddered
"Alternative sucks. Trust me, I know Frank and his music. Sometimes when we are driving along and he puts one of those CDs of his in, I just want to whip out the .44 and blow his CD player up." Iola snorted a laugh.
"I'm sure glad Joe doesn't listen to that garbage." she said with relief.
Callie came up and sat next to Chet. She smiled to him. Sitting back watching him power the boat up river. Chet glanced over and saw her gaze upon him.
"What?" he stuttered. Not sure why she was looking so intently at him. Callie smiled.
"Nothing sweetie, you are just cute." Chet blushed and threw out the throttle a little more. An hour later they had cleared the hollow and were headed for Bayport.
Except for a brief stop at Treeport for fuel, the group headed steadily towards their hometown. Some hours later Chet announced that they would be in Bayport within half an hour. The girls were visibly excited.
"Where do we go when we get in Chet?" Callie asked. Chet was thoughtful.
"Well, I suppose it wise to stop by the police department and let Chief Collig hold our goods while we take care of anything prior to leaving for New York."
"How long will the trip to New York take?" Iola asked. Chet thought for moment.
"Probably 4 hours if I step on it." he said. He looked down at his watch. It read 9:49AM.
"We are making great time. Bayport is easy just after ten." he said. He was soon entering Barmet Bay. Chet slowed down as he entered the Bay. Upon reaching closer inland, Chet throttled down even more. Callie and Iola stood up and watched as Chet entered the area where the Hardy's boathouse was. Chet found the large triple bay house and pulled up alongside. Iola jumped out and ran down the side and entered the code in the keypad to open the automatic door. Upon it opening Chet throttled up slightly and entered. They noticed the Sleuth was still in the boat hanger where it had been delivered earlier.
Chet shut down the motors and began securing the boat. Iola walked in and helped Callie step out.
"Record time, Chet." Callie said looking at her watch. It said 10:10AM. Chet patted his craft gratefully.
"Piece of cake with this ride. Well, let's get to the police. Your car is still here Iola, so we are set." he said. He grabbed the pack and advised the girls to keep on the alert and watch everyone carefully. Iola smiled and took out her keys. They walked up to her Volvo and she hit the remote entry. The doors unlocked and Chet and Callie hopped into the back. Iola pulled out and hit the morning traffic. She soon took a side street which would lead to the old downtown area where police had their main headquarters. It was a beautiful area and drive. The road ran along the bay where many view homes sat on high banks. Iola slowed down abruptly and was gazing off to the left. Chet looked up, half alarmed.
"What's up, sis? See something suspicious?" he asked poking his head around the surrounding area. Iola deeply sighed. Her gaze was set on an old, large home near the edge of a cliff overlooking the bay. She turned back slowly.
"I'm sorry, Chet. That's just the house I want Joe to buy. It's our dream home. And it's for sale. Not that it does us much good." Callie smiled, looking over.
"It's beautiful, Iola. It looks so stately. How old is it? Do you know?" Iola smiled.
"Built in 1858. 5 bedroom, 3 baths. 4 fireplaces. Over 4,000 square foot. And it has been kept perfectly intact by the same family. And look at that view! It is breathtaking." Chet smiled and raised his eyebrows.
"I bet the price is pretty breathtaking too. This is one of the nicest areas of Bayport, and view homes are especially pricey. It's a great house though." Iola half smiled and shook her head.
"You are quite right Chet. The list price was $399,000! Joe loves the house too, but has basically told me that unless investigation fees go up another 1200 percent, that I shouldn't get my hopes too high." Chet sat back nodding.
"He is pretty much right. Most all of our cases do not pay to any excess that say an attorney or a doctor would get for an operation or representation. I think HMH investigations reported net earnings for all partners of $146,000 last year. Obviously not bad for one person, but divided up between Frank, Joe and myself, and sometimes Mr. Hardy, we are talking income of well under $50 grand a year." Iola giggled
"Callie and I do your books, remember Chet? Hehe, the company made $144, 610 last year. $12,500 of that was Mr. Hardy's cut for a case.. Trust me, I've been through the numbers with Joe a number of times. He has basically said that our home will pretty much have to be priced under $125,000 for the payments to be reasonable for him to make. But overall it doesn't matter as long as we have a home and are happy." Chet smiled.
"And I am sure you two will be! I should really be more frugal these days. I pretty much blew that missing child reward on the boat and SUV. Plus many of these other goodies that have been charged on this case have me pretty drained. I should have been more responsible." Callie smiled to him.
"Well sweetie, things tend to cost a lot. And you were really just making sure you had everything you needed for the case. I know you will be in the red on this one since it is basically a charity affair. But maybe the Tiffany reward will help pay some of the expenses." Chet shrugged.
"Well, every bit will help. I am guessing that we may get in the area of $5-10 grand. And that beats a kick in the head! We didn't know what we had and certainly weren't expecting anything. So, if we get five or ten grand dropped on us, it will be cool. And half of that will be yours Cal." Callie smiled.
"Pretty cool for sure, Chet. I could use $2500. My bank account has maybe $450 saved in it." Iola nodded.
"Every bit helps, guys. Anyway, here's the station." She said pulling over to the curb in front of the downtown police station. Callie and Chet quickly got out, followed by Iola. Chet carried the rucksack and Callie and Iola walked on either side of him. They made their way past the main desk and walked down a side hallway generally restricted to police officials only. Though the Hardys and Chet had such a reputation for working with the police that they were usually given latitude, where others were not. They walked up before a desk officer who looked up. He smiled.
"Hello Chet, ladies. What's the good word?" Chet smiled.
"Morning McShane. Is the man in?" he asked referring to the closed door in back of McShane's desk. The officer smiled again.
"Just talking to the wife, Chet. Go ahead on in. He will probably be happy to have an excuse to get back to business and off the phone." Chet smiled again and walked towards the door. He tapped lightly on the door before he and the girls walked in. They found Chief Ezra Collig, a very good friend of the Hardys and Chet, sitting at his desk. He was on the phone.
"Yes, Martha, I will remember to stop off at the butcher on the way home. Yes, I remembered that too..." he looked up, smiled and rolled his eyes a bit in the direction of the phone, "Oh Martha, the detective has come in and I have to get back to work... yes...yes dear. I will see you then. Bye-bye." He hung up the phone and took a deep breath and smiled at the newcomers.
"Well now. Mr. Morton and associates. Don't tell me you have another bad guy? The last one ya brought in here was a pill enough. But it was a good pinch. The state boys from three different states are cutting cards to see who gets to extradite him first. Your dad has Pennsylvania in the lead for what he did to you all there." Chet grinned.
"A cops work is never done." he laughed. Chief Collig rubbed his whiskers thoughtfully.
"Not at $53,000 per year it isn't. And That's with my seniority. You can imagine what some of these rookies are making. Makes me wonder why they didn't choose to work at McDonalds. There's more money to be had there, and no one shoots at you and calls you a dirty name for being given a citation. So anyway, what can I do for you?" Chet smiled to the chief.
"Well dear chief, I was just wondering if you could safeguard this rucksack until I go back out of town later." The chief looked dubiously at the rucksack that didn't look too impressive. He noted to be what appeared to be some dirty laundry coming out of the top. The chief scratched his head looking over at the young detective.
"Er...you want me to guard your dirty laundry? I admit we have a bit of a crime lull today, but I think this is a wee bit misplaced, lad. May I suggest a Laundromat." Chet smiled. He opened the bag and took out a layer of clothing. He then handed the chief the bag.
"Take a look at what's hidden in the bottom, Chiefy." Collig took the bag with a dubious expression and began to examine the contents more closely. After a few moments her looked up straight to Chet.
"Great Scott! Chet, are these real?!" the chief asked amazed. Chet nodded sternly.
"Oh yes, Mr. Hardy authenticated them. The real deal. These jewels were stolen from Tiffany & Co. There is nearly $40 million in there, Chief! I am to return them to New York later today." The chief took on a new tone.
"Well now, I can see why you were wanting these held over here while you went about your business. No problem, Chet." He hit the intercom button.
"McShane!" he blasted, "In the office now please!". A moment later officer McShane came in.
"Yes, sir?" he asked. The chief held up the rucksack.
"Put this in our high security vault immediately. Then lock down the outer room. No one goes near the safe door but me." McShane nodded grabbing the bag.
"Right away sir." he said rushing from the room. The chief looked up to Chet.
"Well now, you can rest easy while you make your preparations. By the way, how are you getting there?" Chet shrugged.
"We figured we'd drive. It will only take four or five hours at a good clip." The chief gave a half smile.
"Well you could do that of course. But, you do know that a non-stop departs from the airport to JFK at 1:30? It might provide even more safety since a wide variety of things can potentially happen on the open road." Chet rubbed his chin thoughtfully, then nodded.
"Well, I think that probably is a good idea. Yes. That is exactly what we will do." Iola and Callie smiled eagerly.
"Are there three seats available you think?" Iola asked. The chief smiled and held up a finger. Then he picked up the phone and dialed.
"Yes, New England Air? Let me speak with Jim Horrigan... Yes, I can hold." He looked up smiling, then tapped his fingers impatiently. A moment later he smiled.
"Hello Jim? This is Ezra. Yes, how are you? Very good. Look, I need to get three people on your New York City flight this afternoon. Do you by chance have any seats?... Yes, three adults. Oh..." his face clouded. "Oh, you do!" his face again brightened. "That would be very nice Jim. If you can do that, especially. Uh huh. Very good. It is quite urgent they get to the city as soon as possible. Yes, the names are Chet Morton, Iola Morton and Callie Shaw. Uh huh. Yes, by 1. Will do. Thanks again, Jim. Yes, I will be there on Friday, as usual. Great. Bye Jim!" He said hanging up. He looked at the three anxious faces.
"He managed to find 3 seats. He didn't have any coach seats, so he assigned three first class seats." Chet looked up with a slight look of concern.
"Wow Chief, that's great and all, but three first class seats without advance purchase are likely going to add up to a very hefty fare." The chief waved it off.
"Don't worry about that, Chet. He assigned them as gratis seats assigned for police business. In other words, No Charge!" Chet grinned astounded.
"Wow, That's very generous Chief." The chief smiled.
"Don't worry, Chet. It is prudent for me to do so. Quite honestly, I don't need $40 million in jewels sitting in a duffel bag in my city one second longer than need be." Chet laughed.
"I see your point entirely." Collig nodded knowingly.
"So, just be back here around 12:30 and we will give you an escort to the airport." Callie and Iola squealed with delight. Chet nodded his appreciation and they waved to the Chief, promising to be back at 12:30. The group left. They jumped into Iola's Volvo.
"Let's get home." Chet said, "You guys aren't the only one's dying for a change of duds!" The girls laughed as Iola burst into traffic and headed for the Morton farm. 12 minutes of fast driving brought the turnoff for the farm. Iola took it with great speed and experience. Her tires threw up a good deal of dust and gravel when they left the hardtop for the rock driveway. She didn't cut speed despite being on a narrow dirt road that was their driveway. Soon the large three-story farmhouse came into view. The Morton farmhouse was an old clapboard home. They raised some cattle and had some crops. Upon Iola's grand arrival at the home, their mom came out onto the porch. Mrs. Morton was a pleasant faced woman of late middle age. She smiled happily upon seeing her two children. She ran out and wrapped her arms around them both.
"Oh, my babies." she said gratefully. "How was your trip? Did you find this captain person? Is everyone alright? Are you home for good?" Chet and Iola smiled. For they knew their mother well enough to know that this greeting was standard operating procedure upon them returning from a case.
"Iola Leann Morton, you didn't tell me this camping trip was on one of the boy's cases! You could have been hurt!" she scolded. Iola smiled, knowing her mom tended to overreact. She smiled to her mother.
"It's ok mom, I had a gun." she said sweetly. Mrs. Morton rolled her eyes.
"I don't think I want to know. Anyway, I was just about to prepare lunch. You must stay for that at least." She said, sensing that by her son's reluctance to answer her questions, that their return was not of a permanent nature. Chet beamed.
"Well of course we can stay for lunch. And even for a shower and some new clothes." Iola smiled to her brother.
"You've been in the field a few days longer than me, bro. So, you can have first honors on the shower." she offered. Callie grinned as Chet made an indignant gesture towards his sister.
"Ah, so you think I stink, huh? Well your right! Ok, I'm going." with that he vanished up the stairs. Callie giggled.
"He was getting pretty ripe. But again, so am I. I'm next." Mrs. Morton smiled.
"Chet can take some long showers, Callie. If he drags about just go throw him out. The hot water heater doesn't work as well as it used to, so the water can turn cold a lot faster." she said. Callie smiled again.
"I will make sure he doesn't use all the water." She said vanishing from the kitchen. Iola sat down at the kitchen table while her mother busied herself.
"How are things going here mom? Is dad at work?" Mrs. Morton nodded without looking up from her work.
"You dad is getting some overtime in for sure. So, what have you been up to?" Iola broached the subject carefully. For she knew with a case still open there was limited info she could give.
"Well ma, the case is still open so there isn't much I can say. But the hardy's captain friend is still missing and the same group is probably holding Bill as well."
"Oh my!" Mrs. Morton exclaimed. "Do you think he's alright?" Iola smiled reassuringly.
"Oh, I'm sure he won't come to any harm." She said not wanting to alarm her mother. "But Callie, Chet and I have to leave after lunch. We are due in New York City later today." Mrs. Morton looked up.
"The case is taking you to New York City?" It must be quite important." Iola nodded,
"It is, mom. But we should be able to handle it." She got up to help her with lunch.
Upstairs, Chet was feeling refreshed letting the hot water stream over him. Washing the last weeks' worth of dirt off. He stood facing the wall of the shower letting the water massage his back. He became lost in relaxing thought with his eyes closed. A moment later he yelped with attention. He turned around to see the nude form of Callie Shaw standing in front of him with an evil smile.
"Your mom warned me that I should come let you know there isn't much hot water." she said not removing the gaze she had upon him. Chet stuttered about. Watching the hot water stream down Callie's body was indeed a pleasure.
"You know Cal, I think my mom meant knock on the door and shout Hurry Up or something." Callie looked disapprovingly at him.
"Are you complaining, sir?" she asked with a mischievous look in her eyes. Chet again stuttered about.
"Err, no angel. But I don't think we have time for this. As much as I'd rather spend the entire day in the shower with you than take an old bag of jewels back." Callie smiled.
"That means a lot. So, I will let you off for now." She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him deeply. She pulled back and groped him briefly. Chet's eyes rolled back.
"Oh my Cal..." Callie grinned evilly.
"Guess that cold water will come in handy." Chet grinned, then excused himself allowing Callie to get enough hot water. He made a beeline for his room and dressed quickly. He was indeed a bit frustrated at this point. He needed a bite to eat. After combing his hair and gathering a little extra cash he had stashed in his, he ran downstairs. The old wooden loose stairs creaked under his big frame. He walked briskly into the kitchen.
"Hey mom, smells good." Chet said hungrily. Mrs. Morton beamed. She never tired of her son's compliments on her cooking.
"Fried chicken is almost done. I hope you left Callie some hot water." Chet coughed abruptly.
"Oh yes, I know for a fact she had some hot water in her shower." Iola raised an eyebrow and looked at her brother while her mom's back was to them. An accusing look on her face if there ever was one. Chet gave an overly innocent expression to her in return. No doubt his sister thought that he had been banging Callie in the shower. Iola returned her look to normal when their mother turned around. A moment later Callie came down.
"I forgot I didn't have any of my clothes here, Iola. So, I had to borrow some of yours. It is a reminder to me I need to go on a diet." She giggled at the t-shirt of Iola's she was wearing. Iola being a size or two smaller in frame that Callie. The t-shirt came only down to above her belly button and left little to the imagination in regards to the ample shape and size of her breasts. Chet smiled at the sight.
"Nothing wrong from where I sit, Cal. You should wear Iola's clothes more often." Callie smiled and walked over to Chet and sat down next to him smiling. Mrs. Morton was carrying a large plate of chicken over to the table. Chet was still keeping a gaze on Callie's top. She grinned at him.
"What ya looking at, Chet?" she asked coyly. Chet stammered about as his mother was looking down at him with some questioning look.
"Well...well, I j-just thought you looked great is all." he stammered. Callie giggled.
"That wasn't so bad. And thank you." She said reaching over and kissing him resoundingly on the lips. At seeing this, Mrs. Morton dropped a plate of biscuits she was bring to the table. Her mouth somewhat agape. She looked a little pale. It had totally not come to Chet's mind that it may have been prudent to let his mom in on his new relationship. Chet got up and helped his mom to a chair.
"Gee mom, I'm sorry. It totally slipped my mind! I mean about Callie and I." Iola finished picking up the biscuits and walked towards the stairs.
"I think I will use this time to get that shower in. Chet, you'd better inform mom of the changes in life as of late." she giggled walking up the stairs. Chet took a seat next to Callie. They looked over to Mrs. Morton, who appeared a little better.
"Yes Chet. You had better inform me of what has been going on in your love life as of late." she said still somewhat stunned by the girl she thought as pretty much Frank Hardy's wife to be kissing her son.
Chet and Callie explained the events of late and of the last year in regards to their significant relationships and how they were both deteriorating. And ultimately how she and Chet came to be. After finding out that Callie and Frank had not really been the couple she had presumed for over a year, she finally understood.
Ultimately she rose from the table smiling.
"I am so happy for you both. I think it is wonderful. You two obviously know each other quite well. So, whatever came about was obviously not a rush to judgment or anything else. I think you will be very happy together." Callie smiled. This had been a point of apprehension to her as she feared not being accepted as her son's significant other. These fears were put aside when Mrs. Morton gave Callie a big hug and smiled to her as only a truly approving mother could.
A few moments later Iola came down the stairs with her hair wrapped in a towel.
"Did I miss any bloodshed?" she asked with an air or humor. Mrs. Morton looked over her glasses at her sassy daughter.
"No bloodshed missy. I think it's wonderful. Of course, I am waiting on your wedding plans though. Are you and Mr. Joe going to be tying the knot this year?" she inquired. Iola rolled her eyes and smiled.
"Of course, mother. Joe wants to marry me more than anything. But, he wants to get a house secured first. I think he wanted to go look for a home this fall in fact. Of course, I have the house picked out. Just a little bit out of our price range." Mrs. Morton smiled.
"Joe's a good and responsible man. He will keep you in check and get something nice but will be responsible enough to know what can be afforded and what will work. I will just be happy when I can come to YOUR home and help you decorate... a nursery for instance." Iola sighed.
"I would like nothing more than a nice home and a couple kids. But as you mentioned, Joe is responsible so he won't engage such a plan until he is certain he can provide." Chet spoke up gesturing with a biscuit.
"Yeah, Iola. Uncle Chet wants a Chet junior around to play ball with." Callie smiled and cleared her throat.
"Excuse me mister. But if you want a Chet junior, you'd better be applying with me!" Mrs. Morton looked over her spectacles approvingly as Chet began to stammer again,
"You mean a child of my..my..own? he echoed.
"Why not?" asked Mrs. Morton. You have apparently got an interested party. But it might be a good idea to be married first." Those words hit home like a pile of bricks as they echoed in Chet's mind. Those words combined with Callie looking back into his eyes. A certain feeling he felt. Her offering him her vulnerability and maybe love in that look. They looked at each other for some time. Iola peevishly broke the silence by intentionally dropping a fork on the tile floor. The shattering metal sound seemed to bring them out of their deep mutual thought.
"Eat up, Chet. It's after noon. We have to make that plane.." Chet peered up. He smiled firmly.
"Right you are, sis." He quickly finished his meal. He stood up and looked at his watch.
"Yep, we better burn rubber." He kissed his mother on the cheek. "Sorry to eat and run mom. We will report back when we can. Give dad our best." Mrs. Morton hugged the three in turn and waved good bye as they rushed out towards the car. Iola took the driver seat and Chet and Callie jumped in the back. They all waved as Iola sped out of the driveway. When the car picked up speed Chet let out a sigh.
"Wow... Mothers, huh?" he said softly. Iola looked in her rear view at her brother.
"What hit you harder, Chet? Mom alluding to you and Callie tying the knot or what seemed like Callie being all for that idea? You were all for that idea, weren't you?" Callie looked over to Chet. She took his hand.
"Yes. I hope that doesn't scare you, hun." she said softly looking into his eyes. Chet returned the look.
"Not at all, angel. I just hadn't thought about it. Till now. Actually, the idea of having a child...Being married, seems quite wonderful." Callie smiled softly when she heard this. Iola looked back in the rearview.
"Hey now. Don't go beating Joe and me to the chase. Mom will have my ass and probably pull a shotgun out to inspire us." Chet grinned.
"Now now, Iola. That won't happen. Unless maybe Joe and you get into trouble before being married." Iola shrugged.
"Aint happened, yet." she said. Chet knocked on the side of the car door.
"Knock on wood."
Iola pulled up before the police station 5 minutes later. She pulled her car into the police impound lot. Or what was otherwise known to cops as employee long term parking. They jumped out of the car and ran up the steps to the door and walked briskly down the same hallway as before. Officer McShane smiled to them and gestured to the door.
"Head on in. He's expecting you." he said. Chet smiled, nodding and walked into the Chief's office. Collig looked up then checked his watch.
"Right on time, Chet. I just pulled your goods out of the vault and will take you personally to the airport." Chet beamed,
"Great, chief. Let's do it." Collig handed him the bag and escorted the group from his office. He led the way down the back hall to the rear exit. He opened the rear door to his prowl car. The group got in and the chief got in behind the wheel. He started the car and quickly burst into traffic.
"Should only take a few minutes, Chet." Collig said as he freely used his flashers to gain easy access through the slow traffic. Chet smiled.
"I like your technique chief! Gets results." Collig nodded with a smile.
"I also do this when I am late to pick my wife up." he said.
Ten minutes later Collig pulled up before the New England air terminal. He got out and opened the rear door when the group slid out.
"This way." the chief led. Looking about for anyone suspicious. He walked into the terminal and up to gate 6. He met the agent.
"Yes, Did Jim call down for the three in first class from my department?" The agent smiled.
"Yes chief. All set. We depart in 15 minutes. They may board now." he said gesturing toward the open gate door. The chief turned to the group. He shook Chet's hand.
"Well Chet, this is the best I can do for you. Watch your tail in the big city. There are many there who would actually rob that bag just for the dirty clothes." Chet nodded and smiled.
"I believe that. Thanks again, chief. We will be in touch." he and the girls waved upon walking up the gateway. They met a flight attendant. Chet smiled.
"Yes, we are with the police. We have three in first class." he said with an air of importance. Iola rolled her eyes. The attendant smiled.
"Of course. We have been expecting you. Please, this way." She showed them to three comfortable seats in the front row of the first-class section. Chet and the girls made their way into comfortable seats. Chet placed the rucksack between his legs.
"Keep a lookout around the plane and outside.. It's not like we arrived discreetly." he said softly, half expecting to see some swarthy stranger jump onboard before they took off. He kept a firm grip on the bag. Callie placed her hand on his.
"We're gonna be fine. I think we shook off any of the troublemakers in the hollow. Mr. Hardy's idea of keeping the boxes that originally held the jewels in plain site was a good plan. I think we fooled them." Chet smiled and looked over to Callie. Again, he looked over her outfit.
"I think I'm gonna buy out all of Iola's tops and give them to you, Cal." He said admiringly. Callie blushed slightly.
"Like that exposed midsection, do you? I have seen a lot of the younger teenagers wearing their tops like that but never had the guts. Guess I feel I was too fat or Frank may have thought ill of me." Chet snorted.
"You don't have to worry about the fat thing angel. I could bounce a dime of your navel, and then kiss it for hours." Callie giggled.
"Ya like it that much, huh?" Chet smiled mischievously.
"Well, the only thing I can think that would improve it would be a pierced belly button." Callie half smiled and looked off into space a moment.
"God, I've seen that in magazines and again on some of the teens, Wow, I guess I am learning how prudish Frank was. Hmm, gonna have to think about that one though. Sounds painful." Chet gave a chuckle,
"Gee Cal, not like I asked you to pierce your tongue." Callie raised an eyebrow and glanced over.
"Well I am happy to hear that. That just sounds painful." Iola giggled slightly.
"That's what I told Joe. He was curious about it, seeing the young teens out there and wondering. More because it is thought to be a sexual type of enhancement over individuality statement. But I think he thought it was a turn on none the less." Chet laughed at this.
"Sounds like Joe. Say, maybe you two can get the works done in the city. The makeover of all makeovers." Callie and Iola smiled.
"Gee, makeover and new clothes? If we get $5 grand from Tiffanys, we will use it up quick doing that." Chet shrugged.
"You ladies are worth it. Besides, $5,000 wouldn't have gone too far towards my bills anyway. Not to mention Callie caught the guy with the jewels. She is definitely entitled to some fun."
A moment later the Captain came over the intercom.
"Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen. We will be taking off in about two minutes. Our travel time to JFK will be 53 minutes. After we are airborne the attendants will have drink service for our brief journey. Have a pleasant trip."
A few minutes later the plane lurched forward towards the runway. It had a brief wait while another flight landed, then pulled ahead. After a few moments the cabin rumbled as the engines engaged, building pressure. The captain released the foot brakes and the plane shot forward. A few moments of speed building as they jetted down the runway and the plane shot forth into the sky. The jetliner climbed swiftly and within 2 minutes the pilot had leveled off.
"Pretty smooth." Chet remarked at the ease of the take off. Callie paled a little and took a breath.
"Smooth, but still scary. Was never a huge fan of air travel, but it can be endured. Say, flag that attendant." she said. Iola motioned to a passing attendant. Callie turned to her.
"Yes, could I get a scotch and water?" she asked. The attendant smiled.
"Of course, miss. Will be just a moment." she said hurrying off. Chet raised an eyebrow.
"Scotch?" He asked. Callie gave a smile.
"I need to numb a little. It's as good as a Prozac under the circumstances." Chet gave a chuckle and patted her on the knee.
"I can understand." he smiled and sat back to enjoy a little nap before the trip ended. The attendant brought Callie her drink. She downed her drink and then leaned back to rest.
"I'm gonna catch a snooze too, Iola. Can you watch the bag?" she asked closing her eyes. Iola looked over to her.
"Sure." she said half-heartedly. She had the slight feeling pass over her that she was perhaps a third wheel. Also, she was feeling a bit unappreciated. She had wished Joe was there. She was in need of some attention. She looked over to her brother and best friend. They were good for each other, she knew. And if they ended up married she would be quite happy.
The rest of the flight went uneventful. About ten minutes before landing Iola shook her brother awake.
"Hey bro, we are about to land. Tell Callie and get buckled up." Chet blinked a few times, then yawned. He gently shook Callie's shoulder and she came to. She looked up groggily.
"Hi... wow, that scotch really looped me to sleep. I am not a drinker much I guess. Just wanted something that would relax me." Chet grinned.
"Well, I think it worked." he said watching her straighten her soft dark blonde hair, then she took out a brush and went to work on it. Momentarily, the captain came on the intercom.
"Hello again, we will be landing at JFK airport in about three minutes. We will be starting our decent, so please buckle up. Thank you." Chet and Iola put their seats upright and buckled up. Soon after, the jetliner took it's decent into New York City. Within a few minutes the plane had made a safe landing. The pilot immediately taxied that aircraft to its arrival gate.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to New York City. It has been our pleasure serving you and please choose us in the future for all your travel. Thank you."
Chet and the girls unbuckled and stood up. Chet took the rucksack and placed it around his shoulder. The attendant released the passenger door and directed them off.
"Well, this is it." Chet said finally. He led the way off the craft. They entered one of the many concourses that made up the huge airport. They walked swiftly towards the exit to find the taxi run. Another ten minutes of walking brought them to an exit area. They scanned the busy area that was made up of travelers and airport employees. Iola gave a start and pointed.
"There are some." she said excitedly. The three made their way over to a lane of three taxis parked and ready for new fares. Chet signaled to the driver of the first. The driver walked over to the rear doors and opened it and gestured to the ladies who took seats first.
"Would you like your luggage in the trunk?" he asked Chet. Chet smiled, but shook his head.
"No thanks." he said getting in. The driver closed the door and walked to the front door and hopped in. He took out his keys and looked in the rear view.
"Where to?" he asked simply. Chet sat up.
"Please take us to Tiffany & Co, main store downtown." The driver tipped his cap.
"Yes, sir." He started the motor and burst into traffic.
Now to just about every New York City cab driver, speed was of the essence because speed meant more fares, thus, more money. Their driver was no different as he sped down the 6-lane highway towards Manhattan. Callie squealed with joy as the driver was giving her quite the ride.
"Wow. This is what I call driving." she said. Chet smiled then looked to Iola.
"That scotch sure goes a long way, huh?" He said. Iola grinned.
"That's my girl. She never was the drinker." she said watching her friend sit there taking the sharp curves with a big smile.
Another 25 minutes brought them before the grand and historic Tiffany & Co department store. An institution known for being the best in all matters jewelry and other goods that appealed to the affluent. A rich history surrounded the Tiffany name. Once they made the finest art glass and lead glass shade lamps. Some of which now commanded prices in the millions of dollars.
Callie stepped out of the cab and looked up at the grand building, then looked slowly down at herself. She got a concerned look on her face. Chet and Iola stepped onto the curb. Chet handed the driver a couple bills.
"Keep the change, pal." he smiled and drove off. Chet turned and looked at Callie and the expression on her face.
"What's up, Callie?" he asked somewhat puzzled. Callie gestured towards the building and the people coming and going from it. Many of which appeared to be dressed in very fine clothing.
"I can't go in there. Look at me! I am wearing borrowed clothes and they look way too casual to be going into a place like this!" Chet smiled to her. He took her close and took her hand.
"Angel, you are just as classy, and I know are more beautiful than any woman in that place." Callie looked up to him.
"You mean that?" she asked with an air of insecurity. She remembered that Frank had been an assuring type of man also, but tended to be less flowing with his emotions and feelings about how he thought. Chet was much more direct and free with the thought he had for her. She liked that. She smiled a bit as Chet looked into her eyes.
"Yes, angel, I mean it." He looked over to his sister, who was obviously very proud of her brother and how he treated a lady.
"We'd better go in guys." she said, "lest we forget we are on a major street in New York City with the you know what in the sack. I'd hate to get nabbed before we went inside." Callie took a deep breath and nodded.
"I've just never been in a place like this. I mean the best jewelry I have ever got was when Frank got me gold hoop earrings at the mall." Chet smiled.
"C'mon, we will go peek at what all the fuss and legends are about." He said taking the bag in the front door. The two ladies followed him. Upon entering the large store which was predominantly made up of expansive glass cases which displayed some of the most attractive jewelry they had ever seen.
They walked along, occasionally getting a glance from a customer who wondered if the three may be 'lost'. Though as a rule, employees could never make aloof gestures or statements of any kind. It was not considered proper at Tiffanys. Not to mention the directive from upper management was probably a belief which more subscribed to the idea of not to judge a book by its cover. As there had probably been occasion for an occasional millionaire to enter the store wearing a burlap sack. And the more important ideal that they may have lost a valuable sale because an aloof employee treated them badly based on their outward appearance.
Chet gestured for the spellbound ladies to come over to a large display case. Callie and Iola walked up to see Chet standing before one of the many engagement ring cases. Callie gasped in awe. There were several rings like she had seen in the stolen shipment.
"Oh my God, Chet. These are beautiful!" She said gazing intently at the diamonds. A moment later a gentleman in a suit came over and smiled to them.
"Good day to you. Is there something that the lady may wish to see?" he asked with a slight air of formality. Callie stammered, but Chet smiled. Realizing that all customers, whether or not they were buying customers or looking customers had to be treated equally.
"Why yes, thank you." he turned to Callie.
"Well my dear. What meets with your desire?" he asked her with a mock tone of formality and approving nature. Callie grinned, then looked silently in the case for a while. She then pointed.
"Oh my! That is it. Please, may I see that?" she asked knowing quite well it was better to be able to slip it on her finger for a brief moment, than to never at all. The salesman walked over to where she was pointing. He gave a brief smile looking to the ring, then to the group.
"Very well, then." he said in an even and respectable tone. He likely perceived that they were obviously the 'looking, but never buying' type of customers. But, as there was no one else at his counter who appeared to need service, and that protocol and just simple respect demanded it, he entered a code in a security pad and then took out a key and inserted into another lock. Chet observed the elaborate procedure.
"Quite the routine to go through, huh?" he said a bit of humor. The salesman gave a smile.
"Well, sir, our insurance carriers tend to be obsessed with procedures. Here we are." he continued pulling out the case Callie had pointed to. He placed it in front of her.
"This is a three stone ring, miss, and sir. The center stone weighs approximately 6.4 carats. It is rated D in color, and the clarity grade,,," he paused, "is flawless." he said. Iola looked up.
"That is quite rare in itself, is it not?" she asked. The salesman smiled empathetically.
"Oh yes. 99.99% of all diamonds found have flaws. There are very few flawless stones on the market. And to have one that is of this size.. Well, it is quite scarce. Also, on the two smaller stones on either side of the main stone, they are 2.79 carats each. Also, D in color and they are internally flawless. Which is, of course, the grade just under flawless. Very exquisite. The ring total weight is just under 12 carats. The setting, is of course platinum. And everything is also, of course, handcrafted to Tiffany's exacting standards which have yet to be equaled by any other jeweler." Chet and the others stood there, somewhat amused by the salesman's pride in the goods he sold. But his formal tones served for quite the deliverance. Callie sighed heavily. It is indeed beautiful, but I'm afraid it's a bit beyond my means." She said with matching formality. Knowing very well she could never afford such a ring without even knowing the price. Chet looked down at it as she tried it on. The fit was perfect. Chet looked up to the salesman.
"Of course, the question of the hour being..." He started. The salesman smiled.
"I'm afraid it is a trifle on the high side. The carat weight and flawless grade stones combined make the Tiffany retail price $427,000." Iola's jaw dropped.
"That's more than the house I want." she gasped. The salesman gave another formal smile.
"Well, miss, even the average Tiffany customer would never purchase such a ring. The price is sadly forbidding to many." Callie watched it gleam on her finger with a mesmerized expression. Chet cleared his throat.
"Well, Cal, perhaps we had better put it back. I'm sure the insurance carrier would appreciate it." The salesman smiled at this statement. Callie nodded sighing heavily.
"Wow, that was a pleasure." she said quietly. The salesman returned the ring to its case. Then looked up.
"Now, if you're looking for something perhaps a little less in cost..." he started. Chet held up his hand.
"Nothing would be nicer, sir. But, at the moment we do have a pressing engagement with Mr. Rabinowitz." The man looked half startled.
"Mr. Rabinowitz,, sir? Tiffany operations officer Rabinowitz?" he asked. Chet nodded.
"Yes. You see my name is Chet Morton. Of the Hardy, Morton and Hardy agency. We have recently recovered a shipment of stolen jewelry and were here to return it to him." The salesman looked flustered himself for the first time since they had met. He smiled profoundly and offered his hand.
"Well now. My name is Edwin George. Senior supervisor of fine jewelry. If you will excuse me, I can call Mr. Rabinowitz's office. I'm sure he will want to see you immediately." he smiled again. Chet returned the smile.
"Of course." he said. Edwin George looked down to the ample rucksack Chet carried.
"Would those be the,,er,," Chet smiled.
"Yes, those are the jewels." Edwin smiled and went to his phone immediately. After what appeared to a hasty exchange of words he returned to the group.
"Please allow me to show you to Mr. Rabinowitz's office, personally." he said. A moment later another man in a suit walked up to Edwin's counter.
"Yes, James. I need you to watch this counter. I have some business to attend to." The younger man nodded.
"Yes, sir." he said making his way behind the counter as Edwin hastily exited and gestured to the trio. They followed him to the back of the main room to an elevator. He pressed a button and the door immediately opened. They followed him in and he pressed a button. The doors closed and the elevator started upward.
"They are very happy upstairs, I can tell you that." he said. "Tiffany's is most grateful to you and your agency." Chet smiled.
"All in our day's work it seems." he said. "We just lucked out." a moment later the elevator bell rang and the doors opened. They walked out on the heels of Edwin George. He led them down a long corridor that was extensively decorated in some of the finest items Tiffany had ever produced. Chet whistled softly upon looking at a row of leaded glass lamps that adorned the right side of the hall.
"These lamps are wonderful. They must be worth..."
"Millions." Edwin George finished. He half smiled "a little inside information for you Mr. Morton, since your obviously of fine moral standing. The art glass and lamps that adorn this single hallway of the executive office wing are insured for over $100,000,000" he said empathetically. Chet raised an eyebrow.
"I shall make sure I don't trip." he said walking near a fine leaded glass dragonfly desk lamp. A moment later they came before a large desk. A woman of middle age in a professional suit looked up. She had reddish brown hair, wire rimmed glasses and a conservative grey dress on. She scrutinized the group. Edwin George stepped forward.
"This is Mr. Morton. He is the individual returning the stolen jewelry shipment." The woman smiled immediately.
"Oh, yes! Mr. Morton. We were advised by the great detective, Fenton Hardy that you had recovered the shipment. My name is Casandra Eckstien. I am one of Mr. Rabinowitz's personal assistants. He will be so pleased to meet you." she walked over and shook his hand. Chet smiled then gestured towards Callie and Iola.
"Thank you. This is my sister, Iola, and my assistant and dear friend, Callie Shaw." he said. Ms. Eckstein smiled and shook their hands.
"A pleasure. Please come right in. Mr. Rabinowitz has summoned Tiffany's insurance carrier... or one of them anyway." She led the way through a pair of huge oak doors to a room that looked bigger than most homes. They walked over to a desk where a genial looking man immediately got up. He walked over to the group smiling. He appeared to be about 50 and very refined in nature.
"Hello. Peter Rabinowitz. Mr. Morton I presume..?" he smiled taking his hand gratefully. Chet shook it.
"Yes, Chet Morton. Mr. Hardy arranged this return as we of course wanted to get these jewels back to their rightful owners." Mr. Rabinowitz smiled. And gestured towards a large leather sofa and several chairs.
"Please have a seat. Ms. Eckstien, please hold all calls and send in Mr. Lebowitz when he gets here." The woman smiled.
"Of course, sir." she said turning on her heel and rushing from the room. Peter sat down with the threesome and Mr. George.
"Now please, tell the tale of how you recovered this valuable shipment. I am fascinated to find out." Chet smiled.
"Well, sir. We are on a case in Pennsylvania. We were investigating a kidnaping and apparently it was done by hijackers. Well, one evening, Miss. Shaw and myself were on a stakeout of an area and we spotted a man. We went down to investigate him. He was holed up in this small cabin in the dead of night. Well, Miss. Shaw here apprehended the suspect with three boxes. We took him and the boxes back to our camp. We investigated the contents of the boxes. My, we were in for a shock." He said. Peter smiled raising an eyebrow.
"Oh, I am sure you were shocked to find such a treasure in the middle of an old hollow. By the way, may I offer you all anything? A drink?" Chet smiled and looked to his companions. They deferred to Chet.
"Yes, that would be nice. We would love some Fiji water if you have it." Peter smiled.
"Of course." he motioned to Mr. George, "You'll find some in the executive dining room." He turned back to the group.
"Well, Miss Shaw. Tiffanys is eternally grateful to you. What you did was brave beyond anything I could have been capable of. You and Mr. Morton have saved us considerably to say the least." He was interrupted by the opening of the door and a middle-aged man with metal rimmed glasses and briefcase walked in. He headed right over to the group. Mr. Rabinowitz turned and smiled.
"Jon Lebowitz, please meet Chet Morton, Miss Callie Shaw and Miss Iola Morton. Mr. Morton and Miss Shaw personally recovered the jewels." Mr. Lebowitz gave a broad smile and extended his hand to the group.
"Jon Lebowitz, Eastern life and liability group. We are underwriters for Tiffany & Co and were on the hook for the hijacked jewels. It is indeed a pleasure to meet you all." he said warmly. Chet smiled and stood. He pulled out the rucksack.
"Well, indeed a pleasure to meet you also. I am sure you will be wanting this back." he said. Lebowitz smiled broadly.
"Yes, of course. Upon authentication we will be happy to release our portion of the reward funds for the recovery." Chet smiled and removed his short wave from the bag and handed the bag over. Lebowitz took it and smiled.
"If you will excuse me gentleman, and ladies, I will take these downstairs to the diamond room for authentication and accounting. It shouldn't take very long." he excused himself. Peter Rabinowitz smiled profusely. It appeared to be a very good day for him. Chet smiled back.
"Mr. Rabinowitz, I also brought a request from the detective, Fenton Hardy." Peter Rabinowitz immediately gave him his full attention.
"Yes, of course Mr. Morton... please?" he asked. Chet went into detail about the kidnaped friends and the probability that the jewels would likely get them back and asked how likely it would be to make a set of worthless copies. Mr. Rabinowitz smiled.
"Mr. Morton, I would be glad to help you with this small matter. Actually, many of those stolen pieces have a copy already made for perspective buyers who may request one to ward off theft. There are a few I believe that we may have to have duplicated. But I can say assuredly I could have an exact matching copy of all the stolen jewels within 48 hours if that suits you." Chet beamed.
"That would be wonderful, sir." Peter stood up and walked over to his desk. He picked up the phone and spoke at length with someone. Momentarily he came back and took a seat.
"Chet, it's all arranged. You may come back in two days and we will have it ready." Chet nodded gratefully.
"It is much appreciated." Peter waved his hand.
"Chet, you and Miss. Shaw have saved our company not only the price of the jewels, but a staggeringly high increase in insurance costs. Our rates of coverage could have gone up as much as 10% for all our stock. And I will stress to say that 10% of our entire stock is astronomical in itself." Chet nodded. A moment later Mr. George walked back in with a silver tray. He placed the drinks before the trio and sat back down.
"Thank you." Callie said gratefully. "Afraid the whole experience has been so incredible I find myself faint." Peter smiled watching her drink.
"My dear, you have no reason to be faint. We are most grateful to you. And soon you will be aware the extent of our gratitude." At that instant Mr. George looked up. He gave Mr. Rabinowitz a sideway glance.
"Oh, sir, I nearly forgot, when I came in there was a matter outside that required your immediate attention." Peter Rabinowitz looked somewhat mystified, but saw the look on Mr. George's face that suggested he needed to talk to him privately.
"Oh, well then. If you ladies and Mr. Morton can excuse me for a moment, I will take care of this post haste. Mr. George, please direct me to the matter of concern." Chet smiled.
"Not at all, sir." as they watched Rabinowitz and George head out of the office.
Once outside the office, Peter Rabinowitz looked to Mr. George for explanation.
"What is it Edwin? I hate to seem a bad host to the group who just saved us tens of millions of dollars." Mr. George smiled.
"Precisely why I brought you out here. I know of course they will get a reward for the recovery. But, if I may bring it to your attention sir, the lady in there was looking quite fanciful upon an engagement ring when I first met their acquaintance. I thought perhaps as a gesture to the lady, since the cash itself may seem insensitive, we might offer it to her as a sign of our sincere appreciation since she did basically risk her life in apprehending the thief." Mr. Rabinowitz smiled approvingly.
"Quite right, George. By all means, go down and wrap it up." Edwin George smiled.
"Right away sir." he said. He was about to turn away when Rabinowitz asked,
"By the way, Edwin, what ring did the lady have fancy for?" Edwin George smiled.
"She selected a three stone, 6.4 and 2.9 sides, D and flawless. Retail $427,000." Rabinowitz raised an eyebrow, then smiled.
"The lady has good taste. Oh, and Mr. George, pick up the sister something nice. Maybe one of the diamond necklaces from the Garland group. In the 20s with a matching bracelet." Mr. George smiled.
"Very good sir. I will be up momentarily with it." Rabinowitz nodded and returned to the office. He walked over to the group.
"My apologies for the intrusion. Work is never done. Please, if there's anything else you need just say the word. Have you been in town long?" Chet shook his head.
"We just arrived directly from the airport." he said. Peter looked sorrowful.
"Then you haven't found a hotel yet?" he asked. Callie shook her head.
"No, not as yet. We hadn't even given it a thought." Mr. Rabinowitz smiled.
"Then please let me arrange for your stay. I know a place that could help you out." He excused himself again to the phone. A moment later Mr. Lebowitz came in the door and walked over with a smile.
"All is well. Every item was accounted for and authenticated. I would again like to express my upmost pleasure at your recovery of these items." Chet smiled and waved a hand.
"Really, it was nothing..." he started. "We were searching for a kidnaper. And this just popped up." Mr. Lebowitz laughed.
"Well it popped right into your honest hands. So, for that we are grateful. And there is of course the matter of the rewards." Chet looked up.
"Rewards?" as in more than one?" Mr. Lebowitz smiled and gestured.
"Normal procedures are in a case like this that the insurance carrier, or my company, offers a portion of money to recover the items. And the insured matches that equally. So basically, it is one reward divided by the two of us to you. And since the items were authenticated and fully accounted for, we will issue you your reward today. As I am sure Mr. Rabinowitz will also do for his half." Callie looked up questioningly.
"That sounds great Mr. Lebowitz, but may I ask if at least one of you can give us your half in cash. We'd like to do a little shopping, and most banks we expect wouldn't be interested in cashing a check for us. Being we are from out of town and all." She said. Mr. Lebowitz raised an eyebrow.
"Well, I'm not sure... a LITTLE shopping you say? You must have very nice taste. But I'm simply not able to have that much cash on hand." Chet smiled.
"Oh, it's ok. We understand. After all, not everyone has $2500-5000 cash on them. A check will be fine." Mr. Lebowitz gave a startled look to them. He cleared his throat.
"Uhm, may I ask what you think the reward is for the recovery?" he asked. Chet shrugged.
"We figured it to be perhaps 5 to 10 thousand dollars." he said. Mr. Lebowitz gestured for them to come over to the desk. They got up and walked over to find Peter Rabinowitz hanging the phone up. He looked up smiling.
"Great news. I have a room for you. Three days..." he was cut off by Mr. Lebowitz.
"Mr. Rabinowitz. The authentication and accounting are done and all is perfect. But more importantly there's the matter of the reward. More so the impression that Mr. Morton and these ladies have as to what the reward is."
"Oh?" Mr. Rabinowitz started. "Is there a problem?" Mr. Lebowitz shook his head.
"Oh no! But I just wanted to tell you, sir. Mr. Morton just told me he thought the reward was going to be possibly $5,000 to $10,000." Mr. Rabinowitz looked shocked. Chet, sensing trouble, looked down to him.
"Of course, if that is too much, I assure you whatever you offer will be fine. We were more than happy to bring you the jewels back for nothing. We aren't in business to get rewards." he said seriously hoping he hadn't offended the men by saying he expected more than what they were going to give him. Though he thought in his mind that $5,000 isn't that much to spare for such a recovery.
Mr. Rabinowitz laughed heartily.
"Oh my. Heheh, " he pressed the intercom button on his desk, "Ms. Eckstien, if you have those checks back from the courier, please bring them in." he continued laughing. Chet, Callie and Iola were feeling slightly uncomfortable. Feeling that they had thought they were asking or expecting too much. They watched the two executives exchange smiles and glances and look back to them. A moment later Ms. Eckstien came into the office and handed each of the executives an envelope.
"Here you are gentlemen." she said and hastened off. Mr. Rabinowitz and Mr. Lebowitz opened the envelopes. Mr. Lebowitz looked down at the check, then looked to Callie and Chet.
"Your names are spelled MORTON and SHAW, correct?" the pair nodded. Mr. Rabinowitz smiled as he checked this spelling on his check also. Lebowitz opened a briefcase and pulled out some forms also. He looked over to Rabinowitz who was smiling broadly. He nodded.
"Uhm, would you like to sit down?" Rabinowitz asked. Chet shrugged.
"No thanks, I'm feeling ok. But would like to apologize if I presumed we would get more than the actual reward was..." Mr. Rabinowitz held up a hand.
"Chet,, Chet, say no more. Tiffany's is Very grateful to the two of you. And it is my pleasure to give you this check, which is Tiffany's portion of the reward," he handed Chet the check. "To you and Miss. Shaw." Chet took the check, more than half expecting to see the figure of $1,000. He looked down and started coughing. His eyes scanned the check. His face paled. Callie looked alarmed.
"What's wrong, Chet?" she asked concerned. Chet just stuttered and gave her the check. She looked down at it and read it aloud.
"Pay to the order of Chet Morton and Callie Shaw, the sum of $1,925,000.00! What? Is this a mistake?" she asked blankly. Mr. Lebowitz shook his head.
"Neither is this one." he said handing her a check. Also, for $1,925,000. Callie looked faint. Iola looked stunned as she read the checks in Callie's hands!