Sir William Whitey Gull

 

Doctor John Campbell

 

Session IX: Secrets of Societies

 Late October 1891, the London weather never seemed to release the clouds from the sky, the constant damp consuming the city in what felt like an everlasting evening chill.

Marion sat at the main table in the office, pouring over his knowledge of Freemasons, knowing that the exclusive group was relatively anonymous, many of the people sitting around the table at Bidwell’s home most likely members.

Reginald paced near the fireplace, still frustrated with the lack of respect he received when being thrown out of Bidwell’s house.

Reginald announced his intentions to contact Inspector Craddock, Marion in turn expressing that he would wait for Godfrey to arrive, both men agreeing that they would need to visit the asylum where Bidwell was housed, the same place where Colonel Hollingsworth currently resides.

Godfrey took a chair next to Marion in the sitting area of the office, staggering and swaying slightly, his head on fire with a terrible headache.  Marion conversing with him that they needed to look into the Mason society within London, Bidwell having been a member.  Godfrey gave his reassurance that he would look into the motion however he was too unwell to continue in the evening, Marion and Godfrey arrange a dinner reservation for the following day.

Reginald wrapped on the door of Inspector Craddock’s office, the door itself opening as Detective Constable Craig pulled it open.

Striding into the room, Cradock’s greeting was cut off by Reginald impressing the name of Detective Sergeant Mulverhill and how he had shut down their search of Bidwell’s home.  Craddock laughed at Reginald, making it clear that if another Detective Sergeant was investigating the scene, it was of no business of Reginald to know.

Craddock eventually requested that Craig look into Mulverhill, his credentials and to see if in fact he was a genuine Officer.

Reginald conveyed all information regarding the investigation that Marion and himself had discovered within Bidwell’s house, including the Masonic Ring currently in Marion’s possession.

After a lengthy conversation based on Reginald’s best attempt to communicate in any form of clarity, much to Craddock’s frustration, Craddock’s notebook now contained pages of mixed information following no particular timeline, filled with quotes of a Cube, Masons, and what he had written down as two idiots being escorted from a crime scene.

Excusing himself, Reginald rose and departed Scotland Yard, his face red with frustration as he had failed to find the words to describe his discoveries, the only idea in his head giving him solace being that this would make for a good chapter in his memoirs.

Recalling the conversation in his mind, two instances stood out in Craddock’s reactions, When Reginald mentioned Bidwell being a Mason, the reaction was not to follow up with any line of questioning.  The second being when Mulverhill was identified as being associated with the Yard, again, very little questioning to follow, Reginald continued to walk to the street, pondering these reactions.

Entering the office at approximately six o’clock in the evening, Reginald strode inside and fell into the large armchair he had claimed near the fire.  Marion was looking into the best route to get to Mercy Hill, the location of the Asylum, the three-hour train ride needing to be taken first thing in the morning as to not waste the day.

Taking a stiff drink, Reginald agreed to meet Marion at the train station in the morning before taking his leave and heading back to his home.

*

The long ride to Mercy Hill through the morning rain was slow, Singh continued to receive his unusual glances as looks from passengers while Reginald and Marion discussed how Bidwell may have escaped the facility and as to who may still be present who knew of him that may be worth talking to.

Reginald reluctantly suggested that Marion take the lead when asking the staff for any information, being a medical man he would understand the language better than himself.

The large red brick building came into view on the tallest hill as the train pulled into the station.  A short carriage ride to the main entrance saw Reginald and Singh exit first followed by Marion who was doing his best to keep dry.

Marion reciting names in his head as he exited the carriage, Dr John Campbell was the name he had to remember, the lead physician at the facility.

Entering the main doors, the three were met by a well-dressed nurse, her apron clean and ironed flat, she ushered them to the main waiting area as Marion expressed his desire to speak to Dr Campbell.

Looking around within the common area of the facility as they waited, Reginald and Marion were both able to determine that this was not an asylum accessible by the common man, instead the well-presented building was primarily used by those of higher standing as to keep their illnesses discreet and away from the public eye.

After several minutes, a nurse took Reginald and Marion down a corridor towards a large wooden door with the plaque of Dr Campbell.  Singh remained in the foyer, keeping an eye on the comings and goings of staff and patients.

Entering the office, Dr Campbell had the look of a man who was not expecting visitors and was confused as to why an unknown doctor was asking for him.

Marion immediately engaged with Campbell, expressing the sudden passing of Bidwell and the desire of family to keep the matter quiet and all records to be handed over.  Campbell was confused as to why records were to be removed from the facility and expressed shock at the news of the murder of Bidwell, a patient who was showing remarkable signs of recovery.

Campbell retorted at the request for records, reminding Marion that they will need to be requested by a court.  Marion immediately returning the request with the severity of the situation, keeping the records quiet and not tarnishing the reputation of the facility through being uncooperative when requested in order to keep the circumstances of the patients confidential.

Standing and walking around the office, Campbell considered the demand, expressing that he was not able to release the records, however was happy to allow the two men access to them, allowing them to take notes while Campbell himself began recounting the stay of Bidwell at the facility.

Bidwell’s extended stay was recalled with much detail by Dr Campbell, admitted in 1888, arriving heavily sedated in the care of Sir William Withey Gull, physician to her Majesty the queen.

When admitted Bidwell exhibited signs of total insanity, acting like a savage beast, growling at doctors and residents.  For month he did not speak, instead producing a strange clicking sound.  April 1889, Bidwell fell into a deep coma, discovered by the nurses, yet awake again after only 24 hours.  Displaying no signs of the former insanity, Bidwell had returned to his usual state, calm, polite yet confused as to where he was and for how long he had been a resident of the Asylum.

Remaining perfectly well behaving and showing no further signs of insanity, Bidwell’s only mention of any alarming topic was to do with an extra terrestrial world, speaking at length about a distant place coupled with when he would be able to leave the institution.

Released at the end of 1889, Campbell remained puzzled at how the rapid change of Bidwell’s condition occurred during his coma.

Campbell’s opinion of Bidwell was that of a man who was clever, driven, obsessive and cunning in the world of business.  Reginald and Marion both read segments of the records, focussing on recorded statements to do with Bidwell’s distrust and almost hatred of women, showing clear signs of distain for the female staff.  Reginald questioning Bidwell’s sexual orientation, however Dr Campbell was quick to dismiss the notion.  Reginald also enquired regarding personal effects, if there was any recollection of a cube at all on his person.  Again Dr Campbell dismissed the matter, explaining Bidwell had been admitted with very little by way of possessions.

Marion enquired as to the room Bidwell had stayed in, Dr Campbell explaining the room had been recently re-occupied, Reginald and Marion were happy to walk the corridors until the room could be inspected briefly.

As Reginald and Marion allowed Campbell to make the arrangements for the room Bidwell formerly occupied to be cleared briefly.  Moving through the facility, both Marion and Reginald observed the patients, all who seemed to be well cared for, all surfaces of the facility were much cleaner than they had expected.  Taken to a wing containing several door, Dr Campbell opened the door to the room Bidwell had been previously occupying.  Reginald observed the walls closely, a fresh coat of paint on the surface.  Marion looked around in every crack and crevice of the tiled floor, yet nothing could be seen.

Hearing noises from the corridor, Reginald and Marion spied a strange patient looking into the room.  The patient whispering and announcing himself as Ben, he pleaded for cigarettes.  Marion approached the man, handing him a small cigarette pouch from his bag, much to the patient’s delight.  Reginald asked if he had known Bidwell, Ben nodding and chuckling to himself, describing Bidwell as dangerous and mad, biting staff and patients, "clicking" at them instead of talking.

Marion probed for information regarding the change in Bidwell, Ben offering little more than a possible beating being the cause.  Ben went on to explain the conversations he had had with Bidwell, how he had planned to escape and get back to wherever he wanted to go.  Reginald probed as to where Bidwell wanted to go, however Ben did not know.  Asking about the cube, Reginald pushed harder on Ben to remember.  Ben shook his head, explaining he had heard Bidwell say that he had killed an Aboriginal for the cube, yet he did not have it with him when he was admitted, yet was desperately seeking it.

Marion and Reginald thanked Ben for the information, promising him more cigarettes on their next visit if Ben would keep his ear to the ground regarding information about Bidwell.  Handing Ben four matches for his cigarettes, Marion nodded politely as he and Reginald began to walk further down the corridor to where Dr Campbell was talking to an orderly.

Moving down to the wing they were familiar with, Reginald and Marion came across Colonel Hollingsworth who was now able to speak.  His memory vague and absent in parts, remembering Reginald and Marion, yet unable to place them anywhere but in his home for some unknown reason.  Reginald began to speak of Mrs Hollingsworth and his son, yet no memory was being triggered.  Marion watched closely as Hollingsworth expressions on marginally changing at the mention of names, yet were blank for many of those closest to him.

After spending some time speaking of past experiences in the army, Hollingsworth’s memory was similar, only latching on to some of what was being mentioned.  At the sight of Hollingsworth getting tired, Marion and Reginald took their leave, departing the Asylum, both enjoying a breath of fresh air, even through the light rain.

*

Reginald and Marin stood from their booth as Godfrey joined them, carrying a handful of leather bound books under his arm.  Godfrey immediately ordered from the drinks menu, taking a seat and opening the first book.  Asking what information the two knew regarding Free Masons, Marion and Reginald gave the same answer as most of the population would, a secret society shrouded in mystery.

Godfrey began his history lesson, pointing out the origins of the Masons trailing back to the Temple of Solomon and the first Master Mason Hirram Abeefe, the man who built the temple of Solomon.  Murdered by three men, the three ruffians, as they were known in Masonic tradition, the three Juwes.  The order was formed to guard their secrets of building and architecture from the common man.  Guilds of masons were formed to protect the secrets of the artistic buildings they were responsible for making, churches and temples etc.

Lodges were then formed around the world along with the secret communication methods in order to identify themselves to each other, adopting several traditions from numerous other societies across the globe.

Building in size and power, towards the end of the 18th Century, many masonic influences began to impact world leaders, the exclusivity of the guilds allowing only upper class entrants, many political views were being shaped by members of the lodges around the world.

Placing Bidwell’s masonic ring in front of Godfrey, asking as to its significance, Godfrey explained that it would be used as a way of introducing oneself abroad, much like the secret handshakes and such.

As the food arrived at the table, Marion quickly slipped the ring back into his pocket, the three men taking up cutlery and keeping their voices low.  Godfrey went back to the topic of King Solomon and his assassins.  A mention in previous years newspapers regarding the three assassins, “The Juwes are the men that will not be blamed for nothing”, a sentence found on a wall in the Ripper case in 1888.  Causing a stir that someone with knowledge of the Masonic order was Jack the Ripper, placing knowledge of such a fact on the wall for all to see.

Godfrey explained that there was a rumour that the files on the Ripper were going to be closed, having not struck for over three years.

Marion agreeing yet full of theories regarding who the Ripper could have been or still is.

Moving the conversation forward, Godfrey asked as to what Reginald and Marion’s interest in the masons was, Marion explaining that it was an avenue of investigation into finding if there was more than just a single perpetrator into Bidwell’s death.

Reginald, keeping true to his form of pulling random quotations from the air, he enquired about the word Yekub, the place Bidwell had written about.  Godfrey’s expression turned serious, speaking of how it was a name given to a distant planet, purely theoretical in his mind, yet quite possibly a planet that has had some influence over individuals as Bidwell described the place and claimed the cube was a relic of the civilisation linking the planets.

Reginald asked if Godfrey had any knowledge of the goal Bidwell was seeking at the gathering in the library after his party, pressing upon Godfrey if this was an attempt to return to the location through the ceremony.

Godfrey changed the subject, asking if the two had been sleeping soundly, as his own sleep had been interrupted by visions since the gathering at Bidwell’s home.  Expressing that he had informed the police of his visions yet not been taken seriously, Marion asked what the visions were about.

Godfrey only broached the topic as the two had brought forward the notion of Masons and alike.  Describing his vision of a great mass of faceless men, a word similar to Duncan or Dugan sticking in his mind.  Without thinking, Marion invited Godfrey back to their office to stay the night in one of the spare rooms, Marion overcome with the feeling that Godfrey was becoming a target of whoever had murdered Bidwell.

Godfrey agreed to spending the evening at the office of Lockhart and Collins, Marion expressing his interest in examining him in the morning if some form of vision was to be had during the night.

*

Godfrey made himself comfortable in the second spare room of the office Marion now resided in, Reginald also agreeing to stay the evening in case of any malcontents that may be around.

Reginald residing in the office, helping himself to the brandy bottle by the fire, Marion retiring to his room, Godfrey doing the same, the cold evening air not penetrating the warmth of the building.

*

Marion met Reginald in the main area of the office, Godfrey appearing a few minutes later with no visions or strange tidings to report.

Disappointed at the news, Marion prepared himself for the day, heading to the Morgue and making contact with Seamus in his usual way.  Arranging for Godfrey to be watched in case of any action that may be taken against him, Seamus was curious as to what Marion was expecting to happen, yet agreed to place one of his watchful street urchins on Godfrey.

Returning to the office, Marion saw that Godfrey had gone, Reginald having arranged a Cab for him to get home, Reginald still sipping an unfinished Brandy he remembered he had left on the side table by his armchair.

Discussing what their next step should be, Marion was keen to return to Inspector Craddock, Reginald however was sure that the Inspector was purely amused by their efforts and input, instead suggesting they return to Bidwell’s home for further investigation.

Deciding to return to the home of Bidwell in the evening, Reginald took the chance to sleep, making himself comfortable in the room he had become accustomed to sleeping in when remaining at the office for the evening.  Marion moving to the table in the office area, re-reading the journals of Bidwell and the books Godfrey had left with him regarding Masonic history.

As Big Ben chimed eight o’clock in the evening, Marion and Reginald stepped into a Hansom Cab on their way to John Bidwell’s residence.  Arriving in the dark of evening, both men moved carefully around the property, spotting a police constable standing guard at the front and rear doors.  After circling the property several times, both decided to withdraw from their intended investigation for the evening, moving back to the street before hailing another Cab for their escape.  Reginald showing clear signs of fatigue, he pleaded with Marion to drop the issue for the evening, allowing them both a night of rest.  Eventually agreeing, Marion dropped Reginald off at his front door step and returning to the office recalling the names of those present at Bidwell’s gathering.  Annie Bessant of the Theosophical society, Florence Farr and Dr William Wynn Wescott of the Golden Dawn Society, Robert James Lees and Godfrey Williamson both psychics, John Bidwell, the host, Dr Peter Begg, Paul Donner, Sir Willian Knight, Dr Stephen Matthers and Warren Puckridge.  Marion recalled the names several times before the Cab to a stop, by 10 o’clock, both men were lost to sleep.

Marion woke with the thought in his mind to contact Inspector Craddock, taking the opportunity as Reginald was not present.  Craddock answered the call, laughing at the coincidental timing of the call, inviting both Marion and Reginald to come to Scotland Yard as he had something interesting to show them in the basement.

Marion hung up the phone, immediately dialling Reginald’s home, the familiar voice of Singh answering, recognising the urgency, he instructed Reginald to meet Marion at the main entrance to Scotland Yard.

Arriving before Marion, Reginald was confused before spotting Marion running across the road towards him.  The two men entered the Yard and guided to the basement cells where Craddock, Craig and several others were standing outside a cell.

Craddock welcomed the two men with a chuckle, showing Reginald and Marion a badly beaten Chinese youth.

Craddock explained that this was a survivor of an attack conducted the previous night.  The Chinese youth and his two friends were planning to rob a man walking through the Limehouse district, the man instead snapping the necks of two of the assailants.  The police who picked up the youth believed he was on some form of opium, hauling him in to the local police station where his description of the man through the interpreter provided, resembled Bartlett.  Craig wrapped his bruised knuckles, clearly the interrogator, interjecting that Bennet Street Limehouse was the address of the confrontation.

Requesting to come with the police and Inspector as they arranged a police presence to the area, Craddock welcomed the guests, believing the two of them would see the real danger of the East End of London.

Exiting the carriage, Reginald, Marion, Craig and Craddock looked around the streets, the heart of Limehouse being largely populated by Chinese.  Several police exited from the following carriage, hauling the Chinese youth from the cell and placing him in the charge of Detective Sergeant Craig.

Fanning out around the area, the police set up a small perimeter, expecting the local Chinese to create a riot at any moment.

The youth pointed the way to where the attack took place, Reginald and Marion hung back behind Craddock and Craig who were following the Chinese boy.  As they walked, Reginald and Marion could see that the boy was lost, his injuries at the hands of his interrogators was clearly effecting his bearings.

Marion and Reginald both paused as they looked at the signs on the street outside the warehouses that littered the streets, Baxters, Huntingtons, Donnegans… Marion and Reginald both froze as they saw the sign for Donnegans.  Both thinking of Godfrey’s words of his vision, Dugan or Duncan.  Taking Constables Baker and Lawrence following Reginald and Marion as they moved towards the warehouse, Reginald pushed the door open with his cane, the abandoned warehouse full of mouse droppings and wet mud.  Footsteps on the ground leading to the back of the warehouse revealed that in the very back corner, two legs laying face down appearing from behind an alcove wall.  Constable Lawrence blowing his whistle, Constable Baker returning to the front door of the warehouse also blowing his whistle.  Lighting a lantern, Lawrence moved closer to the legs just in time to see Reginald smack on of the legs with his cane, expecting them to spring to life, instead finding only a motionless corpse.

Marion moved closer to see the full body, Bartlett, laying face down in the mud, bruising around his throat.

Reginald and Marion looked around the space, the alcove had been set up like a small office, books and papers littered the walls and floor.  Papers nailed to the wall and wooden beams, diagrams of constellations, creations and machinery of a strange nature, the handwriting crude and almost illegible.

Opening several books, Marion could see the stamp of the British Museum, many of the books the property of the institution.  A strange book caught Marion’s eye, a large, leather bound book filled with manuscripts in several different handwriting styles, Marion quickly tucking it into his bag.

Shuffling some of the papers and moving some of the crates that the paperwork was nailed to, Reginald accidently knocked two large wooden crates end over end.  Marion stood at the sight that Reginald had revealed, an alcove in the wall behind the crates containing a small wooden box.  Marion moved to it, opening the lid to reveal the cube Bidwell had been carrying at his party.

Placing the box containing the cube into his bag, Marion pulled Reginald behind him to block the vision of Constable Lawrence as he did so.  More whistles and raised voices caught everyone’s attention, Constable Baker yelling for assistance, Chinese voices calling from multiple directions.

Reginald stuffed much of the paperwork that littered the walls in his pockets and coat as he and Marion accompanied Constable Lawrence to where Baker was outside the warehouse.  A crowd of Chinese had gathered, several police constables trying to disperse the crowd with little effect.

Constable Baker was standing over a young Chinese woman, keeping the crowd back blowing his whistle.  The woman was writhing and convulsing at his feet.  Slowly rising to her feet, she began to walk in a drunken fashion towards Reginald and Marion, a look of horror in her eyes.  Constable stopped blowing his whistle, looking around suddenly before running as fast as he could into an alley.

The Chinese woman held out her hands towards Reginald and Marion, a man’s voice bellowing out from her mouth “Get her, him, me!”.

Marion demanded to know who the woman was, the man’s voice coming from her identifying herself as Constable Baker.  Reginald and Marion both took a step back, their eyes wide with confusion and shock at the woman now standing in front of them.

History 1892-1893

 

• 1892
• Diesel patents his internal combustion engine
• First automatic telephone switchboard introduced
• Salisbury ministry falls after 6 years, Gladstone becomes prime minister for fourth and last time
• Cape to Johannesburg railroad completed
• Outlaws, the Daltons are killed in Kansas
• Oscar Wilde’s Lady Windermere’s Fan plays the St. James Theatre in London
• Tchaikovsky’s ballet The Nutcracker Suite plays in St. Petersburg, Russia
• First successful gasoline tractor produced in U.S.
• Unexplained explosions occur along the English Channel and continue for several years with no explanation ever discovered
• J.R.R. Tolkien born.
• 1893
• Independent Labour Party founded in Britain
• Franco-Russ alliance signed
• Revolt against South Africa Company at Matabele crushed by machine guns
• Second Irish Home Rule Bill passed by House of Commons but rejected by House of Lords
• Swaziland annexed by Transvaal
• Henry Ford builds his first car
• Imperial Institute founded in South Kensington, London
• Lady Margaret Scott wins first British golf championship
• Wall Street stock market crash results in four-year depression in U.S.
• World’s first open-heart surgery performed in Chicago
• Four-color rotary press installed by Joseph Pulitzer in New .York
• World’s first Ferris wheel in Chicago
• Lizzie Borden goes to trial in Massachusetts
• Third Ashanti War begins in West Africa
• First self-loading automatic pistolcdeveloped by Hugo Borchardt.

Bidwell Diary

 

Detective Sergeant Mulverhill

 

DC Craig

 

John Bidwell

 

Godfrey Williamson

 

Session VIII: Wealth and Ruin and a Hot Poker

The long evening of Kandahar house seems like a distant memory after the several weeks that had passed for Marion and Reginald. Reginald spending much of his time trying to write his memoirs, yet struggling with how best to paint the picture of events that had befallen himself and his colleague as to not be seen as a raving lunatic to whomever read his works.

Marion continued his work at the Morgue, taking on less responsibility as his interest in appeasing Dr Spencer taking up less of his attention. It was a wet afternoon in November when Marion and Reginald met for their fortnightly trip to Mercy Hill, roughly three hours from London by train, Albrook Asylum, to see Colonel Hollingsworth who was recovering slowly within the premises. As the two of them sat with the Colonel, his face suffering from palsy, his body not responsive, sitting in his wheelchair. The only signs of life from him, the vague concern that crossed his facial expression whenever Reginald and Marion entered, as if triggering a memory.

After an hour with the Colonel, Marion and Reginald excused themselves, the hallway offering them a grand surprise. Ramona Hollingsworth was visiting her husband when she ran into the two men, asking them to wait for her as she had business to address with them. Curious, Marion and Reginald took a seat in the waiting area where they were met by Ramona shortly after, who asked them to accompany her in a carriage to an establishment where they could have lunch.

As Ramona, Marion and Reginald sat around a circular table within the restaurant Ramona had frequented since her husband’s treatment.

Ramona began to discuss her findings when going through her husband’s effects. Large bank accounts and ledgers of sales of illegal artefacts that had been financial their lifestyle. Documents relating to the conspiracy between both the Colonel and Geoffrey Jordan detailing to trafficking routes and personal gains for the two of them from using the ill-gotten gains. Ramon concluded her explanation with several conclusions that related to them. She was relocating from Kandahar house to a smaller residence with her son, selling Kandahar house as it had been purchase with illegally attained wealth. Ramona had also arranged a large sum of money that had been placed in an account for Reginald and Marion in gratitude of saving the lives of herself and her son.

The amount was substantial, clearly a percentage of the sale of Kandahar house and what looked like much of the gains that could be traced through the illegal channels Hollingsworth had been using, Ramona not wanting anything to do with the funds. Taker her leave from the two after their business had been concluded, Reginald and Marion discussed how best to distribute the funds they were now in control of, Reginald thinking that Marion could best benefit from new lodgings and clothing to better suit his infiltration into higher society. Marion joked that with the cases they had been assisting with, they should go into business for themselves as ‘Enquiry Agents”, consultants for Scotland Yard.

Reginald was as excited as a child flying a kite for the first time at the thought of becoming an enquiry agent, what started in jest was turning into a serious reality.

*

Reginald heard a knock on his door as the damp December rain was setting in, the familiar face of his Real Estate consultant entered his sitting room with Singh. Reginald having set his agent to task in finding a modest office space for the Consulting Agency he had in mind for his new career as an Enquiry Agent.

Marion retained his role at the Morgue, however only spending a couple of hours each morning to help arrange records and perform the occasional autopsy when Dr Spencer was otherwise occupied.

Turning much of his attention to finding smaller and somewhat “normal” cases for himself and Reginald to assist with, any of which that did not attract the attention of Scotland Yard, Marion tasking himself with building a somewhat reputation before opening an office as solid investigators.

Reginald accompanied his realtor to the North East of London, he had found something that he believed suitable, a six storey building where the ground floor was available, already set up as a joint living and business premises with front and rear access, a rear courtyard and across the way from a medical hospital for deceases of the throat. Golden Square, Soho. Sending word to Marion, Reginald was smitten with the property, deciding that this was perfect for what they were wanting. Marion arrived at Golden Square to see an excited Reginald shaking hands with his realtor, Reginald sighting him and nearly yanking his shoulder from the socket as he rushed Marion inside to look around. The set up was perfect, a modest kitchen, large meeting room already complete with library and 4 bedrooms plus a sitting room. Reginald sat Marion in one of the arm chairs in the main room, deciding to contact his accountant who was keeping a close eye on their new account, he wanted to buy this property as a permanent place for Marion to live and a business for them to work from. 

As 4pm chimed on the tall clock in Reginald’s sitting room, Marion, Reginald and George, Reginald’s account along with his realtor drew up paperwork for purchasing the property in Golden Square, a large deposit would be transferred from their account, repayment being estimated at a minimum considering the large investment. All men shaking hands, Marion immediately started thinking about how he would relocate and just how much he needed to bring with him from his former residence, in the end deciding that barely more than three bags were essential to him. Reginald thinking of the best place in the main room, most likely the wall above the fireplace, a perfect placement for his regimental flag that his wide did not like him displaying within their current residence.

Another week of planning, renovation, decorating and settling in saw Reginald comfortably sitting in the newly converted living area under the warm red glow of his regimental flag. Marion making himself at home in the kitchen having converted one of the bedrooms into his private library, the master bedroom where he slept and two guest rooms in case of emergency.

Singh also found himself a place to be comfortable, the sitting room of the property was an ideal place for someone to refocus in the near silence. Marion encouraging Singh to make the room his own for whenever he needed it, Singh having saved Marion’s life on more than one occasion, allowing him the chance to have a break from the constant yammering of Reginald seemed the least he could do in appreciation.

Marion took the time to introduce himself to the medical facility at the rear of the building, advising that he was available to assist in case of a medical emergency, the facilitators there less than enthused that a potential competitor, and ‘new money’ professional was moving in next door.

*

Reginald was very pleased with himself at the acquisition of his new business cards, his name the predominant feature on the “Lockhart and Collins” print, Collins in much smaller writing. Marion, although disappointed at the cards, knew that it was always going to be so, the predictable nature of Reginald’s character always dominant. A ring at the office door saw Singh advise Reginald of a visitor, Fordyce, Colonel Hollingsworth’s former butler stood in the doorway. Advising that as Lady Hollingsworth was relocating, she had several items she thought should be passed to the two men. Accepting the package from Fordyce, Reginald was pleased to see a folded regimental flag,

looking immediately around the office for the perfect place to hang it, making a joke that it should hang over Marion’s bed in his private bedroom.

Marion enquired as Fordyce’s state of employment and health, reporting that he was focussing on family matters and that his health was much improved from the injuries sustained in the events of the home invasion. Reginald and Marion, both impressed by how Fordyce had handled himself in the battle, without thinking, Marion offered Fordyce a role within the business, Reginald nodding in agreement. Fordyce was taken aback by the offer, however not willing to commit immediately, he chose instead to continue with his family matters and when back in London he would decide if he would take the two up on their offer.

Reginald had been spending much of his time developing professional contacts when it came to running a business, securing the services of an accountant, solicitor and general advisors. Marion turned his attention to the more obscure, spending much of his time reading over the lore of the occult in London, making contact with several, self-advertised mediums, fortune tellers and general occult researchers. After spending weeks interviewing the potential “experts” in the field, one man stood out as a genuine individual, an older gentleman by the name of Godfrey Williamson, an occultist who had dedicated his life to studying the supernatural and strange nature of things. After several meetings with Godfrey, Marion began to share facts and information regarding the cases Reginald and he had investigated.

Being in constant contact, Godfrey extended an invitation to Marion and Reginald to join him at a party to be held in the evening the following night. The information regarding the Egyptian case they had most recently experienced, Godfrey stating that there may be guests at the party with more knowledge on the subject who would be good to speak to.

*

The invitation was hand delivered by messenger to Marion and Reginald, issued by John Bidwell, an infamous explorer and adventurer. His residence located in illustrious residential area of St John’s Woods, specifically Blenheim Terrace, where only the extremely wealth can afford.

John Bidwell was a man known of by both Reginald and Marion, building his wealth through shipping and as a successful entrepreneur. A rumour had been circulating regarding his sudden withdrawal from society, spending months out of the public eye, Marion had heard the name several times through half spoken sentences that he had overheard when visiting Colonel Hollingsworth. Bidwell had been residing in the asylum for the past several months, a fact not common knowledge as advertising such information was not the conduct of a gentleman.

Dressing themselves in their finest attire for attending a party held by such a highly respected individual, the damp fog began the settle over the early hours of the evening. The carriage Marion and Reginald exited at the large front steps of the mansion revealed several parked coaches, drivers huddled together ready to drive their customers home, whenever that may be.

Handing their invitations to the doorman, both Reginald and Marion were introduced upon entry, their names barely gaining any notice to the scattered crowd. Observing the scene, Marion was amazed at the wonderfully ornate marble designs, bannisters and railings of a large circular staircase leading to the second floor. Reginald heard the snap of polished wooden floors under his heel as he entered the main ballroom where much of the crowd had gathered. Taking a drink from one of the waiters, Reginal looked for a familiar face, anyone he may recognise as he was still unsure if he would know any of the other guests. Marion moved his way through the crowd towards where he could see chefs serving a beautiful array of food to the guests. Looking around the ballroom, several familiar faces of government officials and celebrities began to appear along with many of the men Marion had either enquired about or tried to get an appointment with from the general occult society.

Spotting Godfrey Williamson, Marion moved across to where he was standing, Williamson taking the time to begin showing his around and introducing him to many of the other guests who also took particular interest in the occult.

Williamson pointing out the home secretary who was in a corner speaking with the police chief, Bram Stoker and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle also stuffing their faces in separate area while deep in conversation. Reginald spotted the familiar coat of a military man, Retired Colonel Albert Hardwick, Reginald gravitating to the retired Colonel in an attempt to blend in.

The noticeable absence of the host John Bidwell seemed to be one of the main topics on conversation heard around the room. Marion taking Godfrey aside, he enquired as to why the invitation was extended to them. Godfrey explaining that was one of the best places to begin networking in the area of the occult within London’s higher circles. Taking the information at face value, Marion began circulating through the crowd, fresh calling cards in hand. Several of the high society members ignoring or pointing their noses up at Marion, on these occasions, Marion would take back his calling card and advise that they were select in the cases they took on, and not to trifle with petty cases of forgetful, pompous, rich idiots.

As 9pm chimed on the clock, the main doors swung open, a tall man sporting a dark suit and cane entered the hall, the doorman announcing him as the host, Mr John Bidwell. Bidwell was clearly not in good health, the mutterings of the crowd stating as much, yet no guest having the stomach to enquire to his face. As Bidwell circulated the room, Godfrey grabbed hold of Marion’s arm and introduced him to the host. Marion was shocked that he was now speaking to the host of the party, advising of the opening of the investigative agency and specialising into the strange and unusual. Bidwell enquired about what school of the occult Marion had knowledge in, enquiring as to the training and special instruction Marion had received.

Marion was unsure how to answer the question advising that in being new to the field, the investigations conducted did not require schooling, yet learning in the face of the investigation seemed to be their only way to educate themselves.

Reginald’s booming voice joined the conversation as he had seen Marion sweating while trying to answer questions Bidwell was asking. Reginald pushing his way through the crowd and taking Bidwell by the hand, distracting Bidwell from the subtle yet clearly intrusive interrogation of Marion.

Bidwell, although unimpressed with the knowledge of Reginald and Marion, knowing that they were associated with Williamson, extended an invitation to the two of them to remain after the party for a private function. Thanking Bidwell for the invitation, Marion agreed to remain with Reginald after the main party, Bidwell giving them a not and requesting they keep it to themselves, Bidwell continued his movements through the crowd.

As Marion and Reginald continued to scan the room, noting the famous faces around the room, they both noticed a strange trait of Bidwell, he seemed to refuse to talk to the women in attendance. More than a simple ignorance of the female gender, there seemed to be a deliberate distain for the gender, constantly turning his back on the women in the room, often giving stern or harsh looks.

Not long after 11pm, Bidwell addressed the room, bidding his guests goodnight as his day was long and tiring. The servants of the house began ushering many of the guests towards the front door, by 11.30pm many had left the premises, the few remaining making it clear that they were supposed to be present. A done people in total were summoned up the large staircase and pointed towards the only open set of double doors on the floor, opening into a large library, a large table taking up the centre of the room draped in purple cloth, 13 chairs placed around it.

The seating was random, anyone invited to the gathering was able to sit wherever they chose around the table, Godfrey, Marion and Reginald all sat along the side of the table closest to the exit. Among the guests, Annie Bessant of the National Theosophical society, Florence Farr and Dr Westcott of Golden Down, Robert James Lees the queens psychic, Dr Peter Begg, a cardiologist, Paul Donner, Sir Phillip Knight, Dr Stephen Manners a philosopher, Lauren Buckridge, a display of upper class social standing. Many of the others looked down their nose at Reginald and Marion, two men clearly not cut from the same cloth as them.

Shortly before midnight, the door opens again, Bidwell’s butler Mr Bartlett entered the room, closing all of the drapes and curtains before leaving and locking the door behind him. A second door located in the corner of the room opened, Bidwell entering the room in a black hooded robe caring a strange cube made of crystal, not bigger than a rubix cube. He asked all participants around the table to join hands and close their eyes. As Big Ben chimed midnight, Bidwell began to mutter, the only audible words seemed to be “Sending out my mind, contacting the others”. In amongst the muttering of Bidwell, a word repeats time and time again from Bidwell’s lips, “Yekub”. Many of the participants around the table began to sway and rock as Bidwell continued, Reginald opening his eyes and looking around the table as incognito as he could, Reginald could see how uncomfortable Marion was. After a short time, Bidwell’s voice became laboured, severing his hand contact with those around him, he leaned back in his chair, declaring that whatever he was trying to achieve did not produce any results, he then excused himself, ringing a bell to signal Bartlett to unlock the door and allow the guests to leave.

Moving down the stairs, Reginald muttered about the lunacy they had just participated in, Marion instead questioning Godfrey as to how many times Bidwell had tried this form of communication. Godfrey unable to give a clear response.

*

As Marion lay in bed he pondered the depths they had waded into regarding the occult society, the level of higher class citizenry at the table baffling him. Reginald rose mid morning, eating a hearty breakfast before heading to the office they had established. Marion had been researching the occult when Reginald arrived, immediately opening and the letters from the bank and lawyers office. A ring of the door bell broke their concentration, Marion opening the door with surprise as Inspector Craddock greeted him and entered followed by a second man, far shabbier looking.

After taking a tour of the office, admiring the mounts on the wall Reginald had arranged and skins on the floor, Introducing his associate as Detective Constable Craig, Craddock continued to speak in a tone of mild sarcasm.

Craddock sat himself in one of the comfortable armchairs that littered the meeting room. Without giving away any emotion, the Inspector asked as to when the two of them left Bidwell’s residence the night before. Reginald and Marion both shook their heads as if to immediately guess they were now being investigated again.

Marion began to rattle off the names of the celebrities present at the party that he could remember along with those who sate around the table after the main event. Detective Sergeant Craig raised him eyebrows at many of the names Marion was calling out, Craddock’s expression was unchanged. Enquiring deeper in the event after the party, Marion and Reginald did their best to explain the events that took place. Craddock finally came to the reason that he had graced the two with his presence, Bidwell had been murdered, violently with a fireplace poker, stabbed through the chest from behind.

Shock gripped Marion and Reginald, the man who they had been in the company of the previous night, a member of high society of such a visible profile, murdered not two hours after they had left his premises.

Reginald poured drinks from the recently stocked cart in the corner of the room, two stiff whiskeys were handed to Craig and Craddock who sipped them politely, Craig more enthusiastic than Craddock at the beverage.

Explaining the events, one of the housekeepers found the body of Bidwell by the fireplace in the library where they had conducted the event the previous night. Hanson Bartlett, Mr Bidwell’s butler now missing and considered the prime suspect. Marion and Reginald dove head first into the conversation, explaining what they had witnessed, how none showed any signs of malice towards Bidwell. Craddock asking if they had witnessed any form of suspicious behaviour, Marion and Reginald unaware of any such behaviour.

Advising that the two were not part of the investigation Craddock gave the slightest of instruction veiled in simple small talk. Advising there was supervision at the front door, a police constable posted there, and only the front door.

Taking his leave of the two, Reginald turned to Marion chuckling, Reginald expressing that Craddock advised them on purpose of where the police officer was stationed, more importantly, where there was no officer stationed.

Marion slung his medical bag over his shoulder, tying his shoes and taking his hat from the stand as he and Reginald called a Hansom Cab as they made their way back to Bidwell’s residence.

Exiting the cab a street away, Marion and Reginald made their way down the alley located to the rear of Bidwell’s residence, checking for any opening in the windows or kitchen doors. Locating a window next to the kitchen that was ajar, Reginald gently pushed it open, ushering Marion to climb inside and unlock the kitchen door. Marion, less enthused by the idea began to climb, semi falling through the window, however landing lightly enough on his side that the noise if his landing being muffled by his coat. Unlocking the kitchen door, Reginald and Marion could see the lack of cleaning that had taken place, the kitchen was still full of half eaten platters of food, champagne with no bubbles and the smell of day old caviar and cigarette ash filling the space.

Locating a second staircase as they moved through the kitchen to the servants quarters, the two began to ascend the stairs, watching for any signs of a police presence. Arriving at the end of the second floor corridor, they were barely six feet from the large double doors of the library that were closed.

Moving as quietly as possible, Reginald gently turned the door knob to the library, pushing the door open slowly as to make as little noise as possible. Marion and Reginald slipping inside, leaving the door slightly ajar to save having to turn the knob when they chose to exit. Sighting the pool of semi dried blood by the fireplace, Marion and Reginald circled the large table at the centre of the room. Scanning the bookshelves, the massive library was impressively stocked with books on topics familiar and not with both Reginald and Marion. Sighting some small leather journals on a shelf close to the fireplace, Marion pulled two of them from their shelf, seeing that they were written in the handwriting of Bidwell, stuffing them in his coat pocket for examination later, Marion continued to look at the library. Moving to the small door where the two of them had seen Bidwell make his entrance from the previous night, Marion was first to push the single door open.

The small room was lit by a single desk lamp, standing in the far corner of the small space on a desk covered in loose paper, weighed down by heavy books laying open on the bench. The room itself was only small compared to the library if branched from, a single desk and chair, a small bookcase littered with well worn leather bound books. The walls of the room were covered in photographs of Bidwell from all over the world, pictures from Africa, Australia and the Americas.

Examining the photographs, Marion found himself drawn to a single picture of Bidwell standing next to a child, thin and pasty, the cube from the gathering the night before clutched in Bidwell’s hand, while his other arm draped around the child. Marion pulled the photograph from the wall and placed it in his pocket, not scanning for any sign of the clear cube in the room, an empty space on the bookcase close to the desk a possible place where it resided.

Reginald scanned the photographs, seeing more of Bidwell and the child, turning over several photographs to see the words written “With Mortimer and a possible location ”Cuncudgerie”.

Both men paused and looked at each other as a loud creak from a door opening snuck through the air. Both Marion and Reginald moved as quietly as possible to the singe door they had entered the small den from. Looking out into the library a shadow appeared in the large double doorway. A stout man wearing a bowler had neat suit entering the library, turning the gas light on, he began looking through the room. Pulling several books from the shelves and shaking them to see if anything was to fall out of them before putting the books back. Looking around and under the table, scanning the fireplace as he walked calmly around the room.

Reginald and Marion did their best to keep watch of the man as he circled the table and headed towards the large double door leading back into the corridor. The man in the bowler had made his way from the library, leaving the doors wide open, walking across the hall into the master bedroom, swinging the large double doors open and leaving them wide. Marion and Reginald took the opportunity to leave the confines of the small room and move cross the library, concealing themselves in case the man in the hat looked back towards them.

Keeping their eyes on the man in the master bedroom, the man’s attention focussed on the night stand next to the bed. Reginald suddenly stumbled, bracing himself by placing his cane against the floor harshly. The man turning and spotting the two men in the library, marching directly to them, demanding to know who they were and why they were trespassing on the premises. Reginald standing tall and making the same demands of identification. The man drew his jacket back as he pulled his identification form his pocket, revealing a revolver holstered on his belt. Detective Sergeant Mulverhill, attached to Scotland Yard. Handing the man their business card, Mulverhill demanded the two leave immediately, escorting them towards the main staircase, pushing them out, Marion walking well in front of Reginald who was intentionally hesitating to see how far he could push the Detective Sergeant.

Reginald engaged the officer at the front door, causing a scene, enough time for Marion to get enough distance to turn the corner and slip back towards the kitchen door. Reginald demanded to know who the Detective Sergeant was, the police officer shocked that anyone was inside the home. As the Police Officer reacted at the sudden news of occupation, Reginald demanded the police officer investigate, running back inside towards the stairs behind the officer.

Marion slipped back inside the kitchen, making his way back up the servants stairs. Reginald and the police officer halted at the top of the main stairs by Mulverhill, demanding the police officer return to his post and escort Reginald from the premises. Hearing the commotion from the main foyer, Reginald now being escorted by both the police constable and Detective Sergeant Mulverhill. Marion seized the opportunity to slip up the stairs and inside the open double doors of the master bedroom. Heading directly towards the bedside table where Mulverhill was looking. A jewellery box filled with some of the finest Jewellery Marion had ever seen, his view distracted by the unusual sight of an overly plain golf ring at the box’s centre. Picking up the ring, the noise from the hallway began to subside, Marion knew he was running out of time, placing the plain ring in his pocket and heading back down the stairs to the rear exit of the building. Turning back towards the main entry of the house, Marion was just in time to see Reginald being manhandled by the police officer. Standing on the curb, Reginald straightened himself up, a slight shock as Marion suddenly appeared beside him. Marion hailed a Hansom Cab, once inside, Marion explained the contents of the Jewellery box and the ring that seemed out of place. Pulling it from his pocket, Reginald and Marion both observed the rings surface move and rotate, revealing an image that both had seen before, a compass and a set square, the symbol of the Free Masons.

Arriving back at their office, Marion continued to examine the ring, placing a phone call to Godfrey, summoning him to visit and join in his examination, an appointment set for the same evening. Reginald, distressed at how little Mulverhill spoke down to him, Reginald placed a call to Scotland Yard, wishing to speak to Inspector Craddock. Unable to get in contact with Craddock, Reginald demanded the desk clerk make sure Inspector Craddock returned his telephone call.

Marion pulled the journals from his coat pocket, the last two volumes written by Bidwell. Marion examined the journals closely, discovering several key points regarding Bidwell’s adventure to Australia, the location where the pictures hanging in his den were originated.  Reading through the journal, Marion could see the workings of a man who had placed everything on the line for whatever the cube represented to him. Following it’s path down the trails of murder, incarceration and shame, Bidwell continued to show such devotion to the cube until his death. Placing the journals down, looking at the clock, two hours had a disappeared, Godfrey would be present shortly.