Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week
Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian's governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts' maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.
This week's suspect: Mrs. French
How Long have you been employed at the Ravenscroft estate?
Since I was a girl: I was a housemaid for Mr. Ravenscroft's parents. I grew up in this house, and I've been here longer than anyone livin'.
What are your specific duties here?
I'm now the housekeeper! And the cook.
How do you like working for the Ravenscrofts?
I rather miss Mr. Ravenscroft. He did lend a bit of stability to the family.
What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?
He was a good boy! He was the kindest and cheerfulest man there ever was. He was handsome and young and strong. I love him. Like a son, of course.
Ruffing's notes: It seems to me that Mrs. French seems to know more than she is letting on. I detect some tension between her and Mrs. Ravenscroft. She does seem very fond of Patrick Roarke. I doubt that she is lying about that fact. I will continue to investigate into these matters further.
