A Fool and His Money Read Online Free PDF Page A

the people fell suddenly quiet and then burst into uncontrollable laughter. They had spotted the two clowns playing leapfrog, very badly, and one had got his enormous shoe trapped inside the coat pocket of the other. The ringmaster, seeing his opportunity for escape, fled to the back of the ring and was gone.
    Irene looked up at Boase.
    â€˜What do you think happened to Clicker? You thought there was something wrong.’
    â€˜I don’t know – maybe he just wasn’t well enough to perform. Hope he’s OK.’
    The pair settled down along with the rest of the crowd to enjoy the remaining entertainment.
    Back at the Bartlett house, Boase sat down in an armchair and drank a cup of tea.
    â€˜You should have seen them, sir, it was hilarious – they were even throwing things at the ringmaster.’
    â€˜Well, I really don’t know – what a carry on.’
    Bartlett was puffing on his pipe.
    â€˜Why were they so angry?’
    â€˜Well, Dad, I suppose because Clicker didn’t turn up – they say he’s the star of the show.’
    Irene went out into the kitchen. ‘Anyone want more tea?’
    â€˜Not for me dear, I’m going up to bed – I feel quite tired.’
    Caroline rose from her chair and, patting Topper on the head, went to the door.
    â€˜You all right, Princess?’
    â€˜Yes, I’m fine, George, dear. Goodnight. Goodbye, Archie – we’ll see you again soon, I hope?’
    â€˜Yes, I hope so, Mrs Bartlett – I mean, Caroline. Goodnight. I should be going home too. Thanks, Irene – that was such good fun.’
    Irene was leaning against the kitchen door.
    â€˜Yes, it was – I do hope the animals are all right. What do you think, Dad?’
    â€˜I’m sure they are, Irene – you don’t know what to worry about next. I’m sure they’re well looked after. Those lions I saw yesterday looked in pretty good health, roaring right next to my head.’
    â€˜But don’t you worry that they’re supposed to be in the jungle?’
    â€˜Well, yes, sometimes – but then, when would people like us ever see them – except in zoos?’
    â€˜Well, that’s another thing, though, isn’t it?’
    â€˜Irene – don’t start all that. It’s getting late – I think I’m off to bed too. Goodnight both. Don’t be long, Irene.’
    Bartlett left the room and Boase and Irene kissed, happy to be alone again.
    â€˜I really have to go, Irene. I can’t stay here all night.’
    â€˜I wish you could, Archie.’
    â€˜Oh, yes – so do I. Come on now, let go.’
    He prised himself from her embrace and made his way out.
    Irene walked to the front door and waved as Boase left through the garden gate.

Chapter Three
    George Bartlett hung his coat on the peg in his office and lit his pipe. As he drew his chair to his desk, he called out loudly.
    â€˜Penhaligon … Penhaligon!’
    The door burst open and Constable Penhaligon stood there.
    â€˜You all right, Inspector Bartlett, sir?’
    â€˜Of course I’m all right – just wondering what I have to do to get a cup of tea around here?’
    â€˜Oh right, sorry, sir – I thought there was something wrong.’
    â€˜Well, there is – I’m thirsty. How’s your mother coming along, Penhaligon?’
    â€˜She’s very well, thank you, sir. Yes, thanks for asking – she’s much better than she was. My sister Dorothy is staying on for a bit to look after her until she’s completely well again.’
    â€˜That’s excellent news, really it is – your mother is a lovely woman. Be sure to give her my best, won’t you? Now, what about that tea?’
    â€˜Very good sir, it’s on the way.’
    Penhaligon closed the door and left Bartlett alone. The inspector puffed on his pipe and wondered what the latest on the church theft was – it had all