Part 1
The events told by Gabriel Betteredge,
Head Servant of Ladu Julia Verinder
Chapter 1:A Record of the Fact
This morning (May 21st 1850), my lady's nephew, Mr Franklin Blake, said to me: 'Betteredge, I've seen Mr Bruff, our lawyer, and we talked about the loss of the diamond two years ago. he thinks a complete record of the facts ought to be put down in writing. And I agree with him. The story should be told and i believe we've found a ways to do it. Everyone will tell their part of the story in turn, begining at the begining. I have a letter telling how my uncle got hold of the diamond in India. Next we must tell how the stone reached my aunt's house in Yorkshire two years ago; and then, of course, how it was lost twelve hours after it was given to Rachel. Nobody on the house during that time. Sp your narrative must be the first.
I have a clear memory for a man of over seventy. However, I did what you probably would have done: I modestly declared that i was incapable of such a task. But young Mr Franklin insisted, and here I am at my dest two hours later, realizing I may have bitten off more I can chew. Oh, well, here goes. . .
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I work for Lord Herncastle, and after he died, when miss Julia, his youngest daughter, married Sir John Verinder, I came with her to Sir John's house here in Yorkshire. I married a local girl, but five years later she died, pour soul, leaving me with my little girl, Penolope. Soon afterwards, Sir John died and my lady was left with her only child, Miss Rachel. My lady made sure that Penelope was educated, and when she was old enough she became Miss Rachel's mail.
My lady promoted me. I became manager of her farms in Yorkshire and carried on this work until, on Christmas Day 1847, my lady invited me to tea. 'Gabriel,' she said, 'It is time to work less. From today you will give up the outdoor work and simply look after the servants here in the house.' I protested, but looking out over the cold grey hills I knew she was right.