THE RIVER 

By Tessa Harvey


    After their meal, they all helped clear everything away just as there was a brisk knock at the front door. A senior police officer stood on the step. "May I come in?" he asked politely, "a real autumnal nip in the air tonight." 
    Joshua glimpsed the stars shining brightly in the still air and thanked God Josiah had not been in the river tonight. He said nothing though, and ushered the intelligent looking officer in. The man had an air of calm authority, but his remarks showed a great sense of humour. He complimented Elizabeth and the youngsters on their ability to be clear and honest. Their story had checked out with Joe's friend, Brian Carter, but further evidence had come to light. "Flash Harry and his pal Noddy," the children burst out laughing at the officer's words and the motherly Anne knew he was destroying fear as he spoke-"have been happrehended and are in custody."
    Jenkins, the officer smiled as all except young Blue knew he had deliberately mispronounced apprehended. The little girl realised suddenly and giggled, her blue eyes lighting up.
    She lost her balance on the grey footstool. There was more laughter, quickly curtailed as they saw she was embarrassed. "The men in the car were professional thieves. They had robbed a jeweller's shop and they were so organised they had escaped detection. "That is," explained the policeman, "until they became careless and over confident. They made a mistake." By now, his audience was enthralled and eager to hear more.


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