Page 55 of The Silent Appeal

Well? Aren’t congratulations in order?

11:27 p.m. Kevin wrote:

At least a little “you were right, just this once, Kevin.”

11:30 p.m. Kevin wrote:

Something, please!

11:31 p.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

Too busy partying with my misgivings to answer. Congratulations.

To: Fran Elroy-Jones

From: Isabel Beck

Date: January 30, 2025

Subject: Who done it?

Hiya Fran!

You’ll never guess my latest news… don’t look at the next line—try to guess!

Kevin MacDonald emailed me with a part in the next Fairways play! Apparently, it was Sarah-Jane who insisted he get in touch. I had such a lovely time at Fairways a few years ago. There’s nothing like being onstage, knowing all your words and every move. Nothing left to chance or other people’s strange and selfish behavior.

My part is Gerda Cristow, the doctor’s wife. I’ve already formed an opinion of her and the script hasn’t even arrived yet. We used to call them White Coat Chasers at St. Ann’s: nurses who were determined to marry an MD. If they had their sights set on a surgeon, we called them Scrub Snipers. There’s no equivalent in ophthalmology. Maybe that’s why I enjoy it so much.

I’m working at Specsavers just outside Fowey. The locals call it Little Fowey, but I’ve never seen that on any signs. Most of my patients (sorry, “customers”) are lovely but there are times I miss the bustle of the hospital ward and a job where every day is different. That’s why I’m thrilled to be back at Fairways.

Do you have anyone to learn lines with? I’ll need to catch up in the next couple of weeks, although books-down won’t be for another month or two yet from my memories of Blithe Spirit.

They say you should never go back, even if fate opens up a door giving you a chance to retrace your steps—it’s not really a door, it’s a trap.

I disagree. If a door opens up and you’re invited to go through it, there’s a reason you should say a big fat YES! There’s something there you didn’t learn last time, or someone who will appreciate your return…

I really, really hope that’s you! See you Monday. Love Issy xxx

To: Isabel Beck

From: Fran Elroy-Jones

Date: January 30, 2025

Subject: Re: Who done it?

[Mail delivery system: message could not be delivered]

Message exchange between Sarah-Jane MacDonald and Carol Dearing on January 31, 2025:

9:06 a.m. Sarah-Jane wrote:

Mum. I know we’re not talking, but I’m trying to locate a spreadsheet of invitees for a media briefing. I was working on it at the same time as Kevin’s party. It must be on your laptop.

9:06 a.m. Carol wrote:

Lucky me.