Chapter 39

“Sit down, Sir Percy. Nobody is arresting anybody until the Duke gets here. Then we will see what we shall see. Now, while we wait for the Duke, provide me with the details of this attempted assassination. How did you find out about it, and exactly who is behind it?”

Sir Percy, the Queen’s Minister, took a chair directly in front of the Superintendent’s desk. This was obviously the chair intended for the most important visitor. The most important visitor was somewhat perturbed by the policeman’s interference with the performance of his duties. “I am afraid that we are wasting time here. There are dangerous things happening, and I must not allow any interference with my activities.” The Queen’s Minister rose from his chair and placed his hands on his hips. “You fail to understand, sir. There are people in our midst who want to overthrow the government and behead the Queen. Unless we take drastic steps, there will be a guillotine in Piccadilly Circus. We cannot be irresolute about our firmness. We must stamp out disloyalty and disagreement at every opportunity. We must strike with all of our might against those who oppose the monarchy and the established church.” It sounded like a prepared political speech.

The Superintendent said, “Please sit down, Sir Percy. I need to know the details of what just happened and just how you happened to be on the scene. Who shot at whom. Why you think Mr. Duff, here, is an insurrectionist. I also understand you have jailed some people without a hearing. I would like to know about that, as well.”

“I am sorry, but there is no time to worry about these details of law. And I answer to the Queen, not to you. If you will not allow me to take this criminal into custody now, I guess there is nothing I can do. You will, however, regret this action.” The very important Queen’s Minister stomped out of the office.

“Well, I guess I had better start to worry. It sounds like Sir Percy has threatened me.” The head of the Metropolitan Police laughed.

I said, “Thank you for keeping me out of jail. These days, once you are in Newgate, you stay in Newgate.”

“I’ll do my best to correct that situation, Mr. Duff.”

“There is one thing I would like to show you, if you could take a moment to step outside with me.”