Short Stories Collection

4. Victoria Winchester

May 17, 1889

Dear Inspector,

As you have requested, I have gotten close to the Lancashire family, especially to their eldest son, Edward. He is the most kind and well-mannered gentleman I have ever met and I do not believe that he would be capable of executing such crimes that you mentioned. However, his father, Mr. Albert Lancashire is of the most peculiar nature. He does not speak much and has an odd look in his eyes. He also does not trust strangers, nor his family; only his close group of five powerful men. For this reason, I decided to approach him through his son. He must know something, as he is his heir.

When I arrived, exactly six days ago, I solicited for a tour of the manor. I was accompanied by Edward's three sisters. They showed me every part of the manor and I believe that there might be something hidden in Mr. Lancashire's chambers or in his study that he always keeps locked. His sisters were so excited to have me as their guest that they let slip too many details about their family. Mr. Lancashire has not shared his chambers with his wife for more than seven years and are only together at dinnertime. For all that they told me, they live separate lives, each with their own lovers as long as they keep a facade for the sake of appearances. Apparently, she does not want to be a part of her husband's criminal life.

I have been growing closer to Edward and gaining his trust - mostly for the past three days - so that he will confide in me all that he knows about his father's crimes. I have been to Edward's chambers and I have found what appears to be his journal. I also discovered that there may be a secret passage from his chambers to his father's, and from his father's to the study. I also discovered that he has been trying to take down his father for the last couple of months when he found out about the suspicious disappearance of Lady Eleanor. I believe that I can join Edward and together we will work faster and better.

I have yet to find any evidence on the crimes you have warned me about, as you must have realised by now, but I am sure that there may be a letter or something better that can be found.

Victoria Winchester

***

May 23, 1889

Dear Inspector,

I shall be very brief in this letter as the matter is of the most urgency.

Edward and I have been working together and we have proof that incriminates Mr. Albert Lancashire of the disappearance of more than ten ladies and the death of over thirteen more. This proof endangers both our lives and we ask for you to send for someone to imprison him as soon as possible.

Under these circumstances, and following our agreement, my late dead husband's debts are paid, and after this matter is resolved, you shall release me as I will no longer work for you, as it was settled.

Take care,

Victoria Winchester