AT THE STORE
Maggie and PJ arrive and PJ parks the car on a diagonal infront of the store. The main window of the store has been smashed and there is glass everywhere. Maggie and PJ get out of the car and approach the store owner who is now stepping out of the store.
PJ : Good morning sir. I'm Detective Hasham and this is Constable Doyle. You reported a burglary?
Store owner : Well that's obvious isn't it?
PJ gives Maggie a look
PJ : Was anything other than cash taken sir?
Store owner : Not that I can tell so far.
Maggie starts looking around. PJ opens his notebook and starts scribbling.
PJ : Ok. Well have you touched anything?
Store owner : Not at all. I know how you guys work - I leave everything so that you can get fingerprints and find the perpetrator so no. I haven't touched anything.
PJ : Right. We'll need your details and......
Maggie, who has been looking at the surrounding area appears to have found something.
Maggie : PJ!
PJ excuses himself and comes over to where Maggie is standing. She has a small piece of paper in her hand.
Maggie : PJ, look at this.
She hands PJ the note.
PJ : (reads out note) Sorry. It's for a worthy cause. Signed Robin Hood.
PJ and Maggie look at each other puzzled.
OPENING MUSIC KICKS IN
IN TOM'S OFFICE
Tom : So the offender was apparently stealing for a good cause.
PJ : Yeah, like Robin Hood - steal from the rich and give to the poor.
Tom : And the owner didn't see or hear a thing?
Maggie : Nope. It must have happened just before he opened shop because he drove
past the store on his way to the bank but when he got there he realised that the money was still in the safe back at the store so he turned around to get it. That's when he noticed the shop had been broken into.
Tom : So what are we looking at? A quick thief looking for some quick cash? Any leads?
PJ : But the money was locked in the safe.
Tom : So you're saying it was an inside job?
PJ : It sure looks that way Boss.
Tom : Ok. You and Maggie go back to the store and get a list of employees from the owner. Maybe we'll get lucky.
They turn around and begin to head for the door. There is a knock and Nick pops his head through the door.
Nick : Ahhh, Boss, there's been another burg on Bradley Street. This time it's a chemist. I'm taking a look out there now.
Tom : Another one? Ok. Take Cooper with you.
Maggie walks out the door. PJ follows but stops just before going out and turns around.
PJ : Maybe it's an epidemic.
Tom gives PJ a look and PJ leaves. Tom puts his glasses back on and begins looking over sheets that are on his desk and sighs.
AT THE STORE
PJ and Maggie follow the owner into the store
Store owner : So you think it was an inside job?
Maggie : It certainly looks that way Mr Collins. Do you have any idea who it could have been?
Collins : Not at all. No-one knew the combination to that safe but me.
PJ : Can it be changed?
Collins : Yes, but it has to be opened for it to be changed.
PJ : Are you sure no-one else knew. Surely you must have told someone or else
written it down somewhere?
Collins : Well, it is written down
The store owner points to the phone number which is painted on one of the windows which is still intact.
Collins : Backwards.
PJ and Maggie give each other a look as if to say "Just great"
Collins : So have you got any leads yet?
PJ : The only lead we have is .......
AT THE CHEMIST
Adam is looking around the shop and Nick is talking to the distraught owner of the shop. Nick is holding a small piece of paper.
Nick : The calling card.
Adam comes over to where Nick is standing..
Adam : So it's our Robin Hood burglar again is it?
Nick : You catch on quick don't you Cooper. Any leads?
Adam : Mrs Davies from across the road said that she thinks she saw a masked male, medium height and build running away from here about 10 minutes ago. Oh, and she said that he had a feather coming out of balaclava.
Nick : Good work Cooper.
Adam leaves and Nick turns his attention to the owner once more.
Nick : Don't worry Mrs Wilks, we'll see what we can do about catching the thief and make sure that he pays.
Mrs Wilks the store owner nods and turns back to face her damaged store as Nick and Adam leave.
IN THE STATION
Tom is talking on the radio. Nick's voice comes over the radio.
Tom : So it's the same guy?
Radio : Looks that way.
Tom : Ok Nick. Wrap it up and come back to the station.
Radio : Will do Boss. We're on our way back now.
Tom : Mount Thomas Station over.
Tom replaces the radio transmitter as Dash walks into the Station.
Dash : Morning!
Tom looks at his watch.
Tom : What time do you call this McKinley?!
Dash : Well, Aunt Helen was moving into her new farm and I promised I'd help her pack a few things. It just took a little longer that I thought it would Boss. And then Grandma Lucy came over to sort a few things out and....
Tom : Save it McKinley
Dash : Sorry Boss. So where is everyone?
Tom : Out on a job. We've had two burgs already this morning. It looks like the same person did both. The only lead we have is a calling card and the burglar calling himself Robin Hood.
Dash : What, like robbing from the rich and giving to the poor?
PJ and Maggie come into the station through the back way.
PJ : Got it in one McKinley.
Tom : Maggie, PJ, did you come up with anything new?
Maggie : Yep. The combination to Collins' safe was his store phone number backwards.
Tom : It was what? His phone number backwards?
Maggie : (nods) He wanted to write it down somewhere where he wouldn't forget it and where it wouldn't be obvious so her chose his phone number.
Dash : That's the second most obvious place to hide a secret combination.
Tom : What's the most obvious?
Dash : The phone number forwards of course.
Tom rolls his eyes and turns to walk back towards his office as Nick and Adam walk in the front way.
Tom : Anything new?
Nick : Well, old Mrs Davies from across the road said she thinks she saw a masked male with a feather sticking out of his balaclava running away from the chemist that was broken in.
Tom : So it really is a Robin Hood impersonator.
Adam : It sure looks that way Boss. We just have to find out who he's giving the cash
to.
Tom : PJ, you and Doyle check with the banks and pay special attention to anyone who's been asking for a loan recently. Nick, check with the local pawn shops to see if anyone has been in to try and sell stuff lately. Dash, you and Adam pick up the lunches from Chris and ask is she has seen anything. You never know, we might get lucky.
The troops turn to head off and Tom heads off to his office but stops in the doorway.
Tom : Oh and by the way, Zoe has invited us all to a masquerade ball she's holding at the pub for charity. I told her we'd all be there.
Nick : But Boss.......
Tom : It's for charity Nick. Besides, it's not your normal masquerade ball. Zoe will tell us more about it at the pub tonight. There's a meeting for all those that are attending.
Tom goes into the office and the Heelers go out of the station on their duties. Nick grumbles something to himself as Adam laughs at him.
AT THE PUB
Adam and Dash walk into the pub. Chris is busy serving a customer.
Dash and Adam : Hi Chris.
Chris: Hi. The lunches won't be a minute.
She gives the customer the drink and heads off towards the kitchen to get the lunches.
Dash : Thanks Chris.
They turn their backs on the bar and lean against the bar.
Dash : So what's this Robin Hood been doing anyway?
Adam : Well, he's hit two stores already and the only clue we have is a calling card which says, "Sorry. It's for a worthy cause. Signed Robin Hood."
Dash : Worthy cause? His own cause more like it.
Adam : Yeah well, he's only taking cash so he probably not trying to pawn off some goods.
Chris has now come up behind them with a box containing the lunches.
Chris : What's this I hear about a Robin Hood in Mount Thomas?
Adam : Who have you been talking to Chris?
Chris : Oh, everyone knows. It's all over town.
Dash : So has anyone been in asking for work or anything?
Chris : Not lately.
Adam : Looks like he wants the cash without the work.
Dash takes the lunches from the bench.
Dash : Thanks Chris. See ya later.
Chris : See ya later. Are you guys coming in for Zoe's charity meeting?
Adam : The Boss has roped us into it.
Chris : See you then. Good luck finding your thief.
Adam : Thanks.
They leave the pub.
IN THE CI OFFICE
PJ is on the phone but is on hold. Maggie is sitting opposite him looking through some files.
PJ : So, Maggs, are you going to that charity ball Zoe's holding?
Maggie : Huh......?
PJ : The masquerade ball. Are you going?
Maggie : Yeah. You?
PJ : I've got quite a lot of work the do here. I don't think....
Maggie : But it's for charity, PJ. Besides, it will be fun - dressing up so that no-one knows who you are.
PJ : Totally in disguise you mean? That doesn't appeal to me Maggs.
Maggie : C'mon PJ. How many times have you been to a masquerade ball? Or any ball for that matter.
PJ : Well.......I'll think about it.
Maggie : Good.
PJ : So what are you going as?
She is not given the chance to answer as the voice on the phone comes back.
PJ : Yes .... Uh huh .... (begins to write something down) Yep .... Got that .... Ok thanks a lot. (hangs up the phone) Bingo.
Maggie looks up from her work
PJ : Three people have been in for a loan in the past week but only one has been
knocked back. A Mr Harris.
Maggie : Let's pay Mr Harris a visit then shall we.
The get up and PJ opens the door.
PJ : After you....
They walk out of the office. PJ gets the keys from off the rack and Maggie goes to Tom's office. She knocks on the door and enters.
Maggie : Boss, PJ and I are out to visit a Mr Harris about a loan he applied for but was unsuccessful.
Tom : Ok. Can you drop by the hospital and tell Zoe that we will all be in tonight at the pub?
Maggie : Yep.
Tom puts his glasses back on and Maggie leaves the room.
OUTSIDE THE PAWN SHOP
The 4WD is parked outside the shop and Nick comes out of the shop holding a clipboard. As he walks out, he closes the clipboard and heads towards the 4WD. From the window which is open, he hears the radio.
Radio : VKC to Mount Thomas 508
Nick : Mount Thomas 508 receive. Go ahead VKC.
Radio : Advising you to switch over to back channel 4 for your station.
Nick : Receive that VKC. Switching over now.
Nick turns a knob.
Nick : Mount Thomas 508 to Mount Thomas Station.
Tom's voice comes over the radio.
Radio : Have you got anything Nick?
Nick : Nope. Nobody's been in with any stuff lately. Looks like a dead end.
Radio : Ok Nick. I need you back here so wrap it up and get back as soon a possible.
Nick : Got that Boss. Mount Thomas 508 out.
Nick closes the door and drives off.
AT MR HARRIS' PLACE
PJ and Maggie drive up the dirt road leading to the Harris property - a worn out excuse for a house. They get out of the car and go up to the front door.
Maggie : Looks like he was in need of a loan. Look at this place
Maggie knocks but there is no answer.
PJ : Mr Harris! This is the police. Open Up!
There is still no answer. They try the door knob but it appears to be locked.
Maggie : Knock the door down.
PJ moves back in preparation to knock the door down. He bangs his shoulder against the door. It splits and PJ goes crashing through the door into the hallway. He crashes into one of the walls inside the house.
Maggie : PJ, are you ok?
She rushes to help him and begins dusting off the wood and other debris that has attached itself to his shirt.
PJ : It was softer than I thought.
PJ looks at Maggie and smiles. He brushes himself off as a man appears at the end of the hallway.
Harris : My door! What'd ya do that for? Now that's something else I have to get fixed. And I sure know that it's not just chipped.
He rushes over to look at the remains of the door. Maggie whispers to PJ.
Maggie : Looks like we've got a poet on our hands.
PJ : Just what I need.
PJ now turns his attentions to Mr Harris.
PJ : Mr Harris I presume.
Harris : Who wants to know?
PJ : I'm Senior Detective Hasham and this is Constable Doyle. We've been informed that you recently applied for a loan from the bank but was knocked back.
Harris : Yeah, so?
PJ : Well, we're investigating a series of burglaries and we have reason to believe that you may be involved.
Harris : I don't know what the hell you're talking about. So you can take your reason somewhere else you lout.
Maggie : I'm afraid that's not possible Mr Harris. Do you mind if we take a look around?
Harris : I most certainly do mind. I don't have anything here that would interest you blokes, I have barely enough to cover my own behind.
Maggie stifles a giggle.
PJ : We can get a warrant if you would rather.
Harris : Well. Ok. But you won't find anything coz I don't have a clue about what you're talking about.
PJ gives Maggie a look and they begin to search the property.
They separate and go into different rooms of the house. We see Maggie going through some of Harris’ stuff but doesn’t find anything. We then see PJ looking in another room.
PJ : Maggs!
Maggie looks up and goes to where PJ is.
Maggie: Found something?
PJ : Yeah. Look at this.
PJ shows Maggie a copy of the calling card that they’ve been finding at the sites of the robberies. Maggie continues to go through the room. PJ approaches Harris and shows him the card.
PJ : What are you doing with this Mr Harris?
Harris: What? I’ve never seen it before in my life.
PJ : Cut the crap Harris. Where’s the money?
Harris : What money. You must be crazy! How much money do you think I have - I mean, look at the house I live in.
PJ : I think it’s time we had a little talk, down at the station.
Harris : Whatever.
PJ : You almost finished Maggs?
Maggie : Yep.
PJ : Ok Mr Harris, move.
PJ holds Harris’ hands behind his back and guides him out of the house.
AT THE STATION
PJ and Maggie then come in through the front way with Harris. PJ leads him towards the interview room.
THE INTERVIEW ROOM
Harris comes into the station followed by PJ and then Maggie who turns to close the door.
PJ : Have a seat Mr Harris.
Harris : Thanks you so much (sarcastically)
PJ : Now, are you going to tell us where you’ve put the money?
Harris : I told you before, I don’t know anything about no money.
Maggie : Oh c’mon. You’ve got the calling card and the motive. Where’s the money Mr Harris?
Harris : Is that what this is all about? The card?
PJ : What do you know about the card?
Harris : Are you deaf or something? I told you I don’t know anything about the card.
PJ : Well then, would you like to tell us how you came into the possession of the
card?
IN THE MAIN PART OF THE OFFICE
Adam and Dash are standing behind the box containing the lunches. They pick out a bag and throw it to Nick who is sitting at his desk.
Nick : McKinley express. Best service around.
Tom comes out of his office to get his lunch.
Tom : Did you get anything Nick?
Adam hands Tom his lunch and he opens it and looks in.
Nick : No can do Boss. No-one has been in trying to flog off stuff.
Tom groans, partly because of his lunch and partly because they haven’t got any leads.
Tom : I guess this Robin Hood fellow is invisible as well. (Begins to walk off towards his office and says in a grumble) Why did I pick this sandwich today?
Adam : The Boss has got a point. We’ve got no idea who this Robin Hood guy is, and there haven’t been any burgs since...
Nick : Don’t say that Adam.
Adam : Why?
The phone starts to ring. Dash answers it.
PJ and Maggie come out of the interview room.
Maggie : Maybe he didn’t know about the card PJ. His place did look pretty trashed PJ, like someone had gone through it. Maybe the same guy hit his place but couldn’t find anything worth taking.
PJ : It’s him, Maggs.
Dash : Ok, we’ll get someone out there as soon as possible.
She hangs up the phone.
Dash: PJ, there’s been another burg at the service station.
Nick : That’s why Cooper.
PJ : Coming Maggs?
Maggie : Watch him Nick (as she gestures towards the interview room)
Maggie grabs her hat from the top of her desk and follows PJ out of the office. As they leave the station, Tom comes out of the office.
Tom : Where are those two off to now?
Nick : Ahhh, Boss, there’s been another burg.
AT THE SERVICE STATION
PJ and Maggie drive up in the CI car. An attractive woman comes out of the shop.
She looks distressed.
PJ : Hi. I’m Detective PJ Hasham and this is Constable Doyle.
Tracey : Thank God you’re here.
PJ : Ms. Pont I presume.
Maggie gives PJ a look.
Tracey : Miss actually. You can call me Tracey.
PJ : Right, Tracey, there’s been a burglary here?
Tracey : They just barged in and demanded money. I had to give it to them.
Maggie : I’m sorry, they?
Tracey : Yeah, there were two of them and they both had guns.
PJ : Guns?! Well, I’m glad that you weren’t hurt Tracey. Constable Doyle, check the area for any leads would you please. And while you’re at it, maybe Miss Tracey would like a cup of coffee.
Tracey : I take it white with two thanks.
Maggie : It would be my pleasure.
Maggie gives PJ another look, to which he replies with a smile.
PJ : So could you describe the offenders, Tracey?
Tracey : They were both in black clothes, with masks over their faces you know.
PJ nods.
PJ : And they were carrying guns.
Tracey : Yes, both of them had a small gun each. One of them pointed it at my head
while the other one went for the till.
PJ : They didn’t take anything else?
Tracey : Nothing. They just took the cash and left.
PJ : Ok Tracey. We’ll see what we can do to find the offenders. But for the moment, why don’t you just sit back and try to relax.
PJ : When did the burgalry take place Tracey?
Tracey : About half an hour ago.
PJ finishes writing something in his folder and puts it down. He helps Tracey settle down in her chair and puts an arm around her shoulders. From outside, Maggie yells to PJ.
Maggie : PJ!
She looks up and glances in the direction of where PJ and Tracey are sitting, just in time to catch PJ putting his arm around her shoulders.
PJ : Excuse me Tracey, it seems my colleague needs my assistance.
PJ gets up and goes over to where Maggie is.
PJ : Found something Maggs?
Maggie holds up two toy guns.
Maggie : Assault weapon?
PJ : Well done Maggs. We’ll make a detective out of you yet.
She puts the guns into a plastic bag as PJ gets up and returns to Tracey’s side.
PJ : We’ve found the guns that were used in the burglary. Is there anything else you can tell us?
Tracey : Yeah, they left this.
She gives PJ a small card. He looks at it.
PJ : The calling card. Thank you Miss Pont. We’ll be in contact with you soon. In the meantime, keep safe ok.
Tracey smiles as PJ turns around and starts heading back to the car.
Tracey : Thank you. PJ, wasn’t it?
PJ turns around to face her.
PJ : Yeah. If you hear anything else, don’t hesitate to give us a call will you.
PJ turns again and heads towards the car where Maggie is already waiting.
Maggie : PJ, wasn’t it? (imitating Tracey)
PJ : C’mon Doyley
They drive off.
IN TOM’S OFFICE
Tom is sitting in his chair without his glasses on. PJ and Maggie are standing in front of his desk and they are discussing the case.
Tom : Another Robin Hood robbery them.
Maggie : Yep, the calling card was left again. This guy must be really desperate for cash. This time they even used scare tactics.
Tom : A dead end with Harris as well?
PJ : It’s got to be him Boss.
Maggie keeps quiet.
Tom : What about you Doyle? Do you think it’s him?
Maggie : He denies it. And he was in here when the burg at the servo took place.
PJ : He could have an accomplice.
Maggie : Our Mr Harris in there have two friends dumb enough to help him pull off a series of burgs? C’mon.
Tom : She’s got a point PJ. And besides, he didn’t know that we were going to bring him in so unless he already planned not to do the job himself.....
PJ : Yeah, I get your point Boss. But if it wasn’t him, then who?
There’s a knock at the door. Adam comes in.
Adam : Sorry Boss but it’s important. Mr White from the bank rang - he said that there was one other person who applied for a loan. He got the loan but only half of it. Apparently his credit record wasn’t good enough for him to be granted the whole amount he wanted.
PJ : Thank you Adam. What is his name?
Adam : A Mr Kilroy. He’s recently been widowered and his farm’s just about had it.
If you ask me, he’s our Robin Hood.
Tom : Good work Cooper. You two go out there and check it out. Adam, release Mr Harris in there. I don’t think he’ll be needed any further.
The phone rings in Tom’s office.
Adam : Right Boss.
They disperse. Tom picks up the phone. It is Zoe.
Tom : Hello ... no Zoe I haven’t forgotten ... 7 o’clock sharp we’ll be there.
LATER IN THE IMPERIAL
The troops have arrived for Zoe’s meeting. It is 6:45 - they’re 15 minutes early. They are all sitting at a table except for Nick who is at the counter getting drinks for them all.
Tom : So what did this Mr Kilroy have to say for himself?
Maggie : He wasn’t in when we went by. But we had a little look around. You weren’t wrong Adam when you said that his farm was going under.
Nick comes up with the drinks. PJ takes one and has a sip.
PJ : Mmm, the place was a shambles. It looked like he really needed the cash.
Maggie : We did bump into his Mother on the way out though. She’s staying with Kilroy for a couple of weeks. She was just going for her afternoon stroll when we saw her.
Tom : Could she tell you anything?
Maggie : All she said was that her son was in St Davids and wouldn’t be back until tomorrow afternoon.
Tom : Maggie, PJ, I want you two out there as soon as he gets back, understand.
PJ : Got it Boss.
Zoe comes into the pub. She speaks with Chris for a few moments and then turns to make an announcement.
Zoe : Thank you all for coming. We’ll have the meeting to organise this fundraising Masquerade Ball in the Dining Room - if you’d all like to follow me through.
She heads off in the direction of the Dining Room and some people follow here. The Heelers get up one by one, all except for PJ who doesn’t seem to move. They all head off and Maggie turns around, realising that PJ isn’t coming.
Maggie : PJ .....
PJ : It’s not my thing Doyle.
He takes another sip from his beer
Maggie : C’mon PJ, it’ll be fun. (she reaches to take his free hand and pulls him up) Besides...
PJ : it’s for charity (he finishes her sentence)
Maggie : Exactly. Let’s go.
She gives him another yank. He takes one last sip from his beer, put’s it down and allows himself to be dragged in the direction of the Dining Room by Maggie.
IN THE DINING ROOM
The meeting has already started. Maggie and PJ come in late.
Zoe : Glad you could join us PJ.
PJ looks sheepish as he and Maggie find seats with the others.
Zoe : Well, as I said, the ball is to raise money for the new breast cancer unit we’re planning to build at the hospital. With the number we’re expecting at the Ball, $50 a head, as well as the money raised from the auction being held on the night should just about cover our costs.
PJ : (whispers to Maggie) $50 a pop?! I’m out of here.
PJ makes a move to leave but Maggie pushes him back down.
Maggie : It’s for charity PJ.
Zoe : And it’s not going to be your normal masquerade ball, (one of Zoe’s nurses stands up and starts waving a couple of hats around) with the theme fantasy, we have a hat filled with male fantasy characters and one filled with female fantasy characters. I’m going to ask each one of you to draw one piece of paper from the hat and this will be who you’re going to come as. Under no circumstances may you tell anyone who you’re coming as, especially someone from the oppposite sex. Try to make yourself as disguised as possible - even to the point that no-one can tell who you are. On the night, you have to find your partner, for example, if you’re Cinderella, your partner is Prince Charming. if you’re Snow White, you have to find a Dwarf and so on. The aim is to find out who your partner is and of course, to have fun. As I said before, there will be an auction on the night and we have a variety of items which I’m sure will interest all of you. So, without further or do, lets draw the names.
Everyone gets up and crowds around the nurse holding the hat. She gives one of the hats to Zoe.
Zoe : Ladies to Esther and gents to me.
She glances at Nick who quickly turns away.
Nick : Mate, can you draw my character out for me?
PJ : You heard the lady Schutz. I can’t draw for you coz than I’ll find out who you are!
Nick has a pained look on his face as he reluctantly goes up to draw his character.
Meanwhile, Maggie has drawn her piece of paper and she moves away to look at who she is going to be. Just as she is about to open up the piece of paper, PJ comes up behind her.
PJ : So, who are you going as Maggs?
Maggie : PJ! (startled) You know I can’t tell you that.
PJ : Oh c’mon. You can tell me....
Maggie : No I can’t! (starts laughing) Now go away so I can find out who I’m coming as.
PJ : Then will you tell me?
Maggie : PJ......
She turns away from him and opens up her piece of paper. On it is written "Beauty".
PJ : So......
Maggie : So what?! PJ stop it!
She goes away. PJ opens his piece of paper, looks at it for a moment as if he doesn’t understand it, and then scrunches it up and walks away.
AT THE STATION
Dash is standing near the cabinet, looking through folders. Adam is at his desk, as is Nick. PJ is standing behind Adam. Tom isn’t in yet and neither is Maggie.
PJ : So McKinley, what are you going as?
Dash : Don’t be silly PJ, I’m not going to tell you.
Maggie walks in.
PJ : C’mon Dash, you can tell me.
Maggie : Don’t Dash. He’ll be annoying but don’t tell him.
Adam : I mean, that’s the fun of it PJ. You don’t know who anyone is going as ....
PJ : Yes, mate, I heard Zoe last night. And I wonder who she’d going as.
PJ gives Nick a look.
Nick : Mate, I don’t want to know.
Dash : Yeah, maybe she’s going as your partner Nick.
Tom walks into the station.
Nick : You keep your mouth shut Deidre, or I’ll have you up for defamation.
Dash : Ooo, I’m scared.
Tom walks in.
Tom : Don’t you all have work to do? Maggie, PJ, can I see you in my office now.
PJ and Maggie follow him into his office.
Nick : You watch it McKinley, or the Schutzy Detective agency will be onto you.
Dash gives Nick a look and returns to her work.
IN TOM’S OFFICE
PJ and Maggie walk in. Tom sits at his chair and gestures towards the door.
Tom : Shut the door.
Maggie shuts the door after her.
Tom : It seems that our Mr Kilroy is quite a hero, in his mother’e eyes anyway.
Maggie : What do you mean?
Tom : Well, she’s been diagnosed with breast cancer and needs to undergo treatment. The loan was to pay for her treatment - not to do up the house.
PJ : Robin Hood.
Tom : Maybe. I want you two to go out and see Mr Kilroy today. See what he has to say for himself. If he’s not there again, have a chat to the mother. Maybe she can tell us a little about his movements and motives.
PJ : Right Boss, but she said that he wouldn’t be back until this afternoon.
Tom : Well that gives you an excellent opportunity to talk to his mother doesn’t it.
PJ : Ok.
AT KILROY’S HOUSE
Maggie and PJ walk up the path leading towards the front door. PJ knocks on the door. There’s no answer.
Maggie : Knock the door down.
PJ : No way. I am not trying that again.
He knocks again.
PJ : She’s probably just deaf.
The door opens.
Maggie : Mrs Kilroy.
Mrs Kilroy : Oh, you two again. My son’s not home yet, though I’m expecting him home soon.
PJ : Well, Mrs Kilroy, may we have a chat to you while we wait for your son to return?
Mrs Kilroy : Of course. Would you like a cup of tea while you’re here? You two must be worn out, catching criminals all day. I bet you never have a minute to yourselves.
She smiles at them as she leads them through the house.
PJ and Maggie look at each other.
Maggie : That would be lovely. Thank you Mrs Kilroy.
AT THE STATION
Tom is in his office. Nick is at his desk as is Dash. Adam is at the computer, checking Kilroy’s record.
Adam : This is interesting. (he turns to face Nick and Dash) It looks like Mr Kilroy has quite a bad credit record.
Nick : He’s got form!
Adam : Certainly has. He was caught stealing back in 95. Since then he’s copped a series of charges ranging from petty theft through to fencing stolen goods, not to mention a long list of outstanding parking fines.
Dash : No wonder he didn’t get the full amount of the loan he wanted.
Adam : Yeah, and get this, he’s wanted in Bendigo for armed robbery.
Nick : Looks like he’s our man.
AT KILROYS HOUSE
Maggie, PJ and Mrs Kilroy are in a sparsely furnished lounge room. Maggie and PJ are sitting on the double lounge and Mrs Kilroy is sitting on the single lounge. There is a table in the middle of them and the rest of the room is bare. They are all holding their tea in their laps, and Mrs Kilroy takes a sip from hers.
Mrs Kilroy : He’s such a sweetie, my son.
Maggie : We understand that you’re due to begin hospital treatment soon, Mrs Kilroy.
Mrs Kilroy : That’s true. Just as soon as Danny gets the last of the money together. He’s such a caring son. I told him he didn’t need to do it but he insisted.
PJ : Mrs Kilroy, do you know where Danny is getting the money from?
Mrs Kilroy : He said that he had some business to finish up and that would give him the extra cash he needed to pay for the treatment.
PJ : The bank loan that he applied for. Was that for your treatment?
Mrs Kilroy : Oh that. Yes, he was hoping to get a loan from the bank but they refused to lend him the whole amount, but they did give him some of the funds. Almost half.
Maggie : How long has your son been in St Davids Mrs Kilroy?
Mrs Kilroy : Ooo, (looks at her watch) about 25 hours and 43 minutes.
Maggie and PJ look at each other. They begin to get up.
Mrs Kilroy : Please don’t go yet. It gets so lonely here during the days when Danny isn’t home. I’m sure that he’ll be home soon.
PJ : Ahh, we have to get back to the station now. If you could give us a call when Danny gets back, that would be a great help.
Mrs Kilroy : There’s a slight problem with that, you see, we don’t have a phone.
Maggie : Well then, we’ll just call back in a couple of hours then. Thank you for the tea Mrs Kilroy.
PJ leads the way out of the house. Mrs Kilroy whispers something to Maggie.
Mrs Kilroy : You’re so lucky to have found someone like him (she gestures to PJ who turns around)
Maggie : Oh, Mrs Kilroy, we just work together.
Mrs Kilroy : Oh, I’m sure. I can see the way you look at him.
Maggie looks slightly embarrassed.
Maggie : Thank you for the tea Mrs Kilroy.
Maggie follows PJ out of the house. They begin to go down the steps and PJ whispers to Maggie.
PJ : What did Mrs Kilroy have to say to you?
Maggie : Absolutely nothing.
PJ leans over as if to say something else but Maggie is focussed on something else in the distance. A young man has appeared to have gotten out of a car and is heading towards the house.
Maggie : Mr Kilroy.
Danny turns and begins running.
Mrs Kilroy : Danny! They only want to talk to you.
Maggie and PJ take off in pursuit of Danny. Maggie is leading. Danny comes to a fence and tries to climb it. However, he is having trouble and this allows Maggie to catch up. She pulls him down, pushes him against the fence and holds his hands behind his back.
Maggie : I think it’s time we had a bit of a chat don’t you?
She leads him off towards where they’ve come from and to the CI car. On the way, they meet PJ.
PJ : You right Maggs?
Maggie : Looks like you need to improve your fitness PJ (she laughs). Move it! (to Danny)
She moves Danny off towards the car. PJ stops a while to catch his breath and then follows her towards the car.
PJ : Yep, you’re fine.
Maggie puts Danny into the car as Mrs Kilroy watches on.
Mrs Kilroy : Where are you taking him Detective?
PJ : We’re just going down to the station for a chat Mrs Kilroy. Nothing to worry yourself about.
Mrs Kilroy : Well, ok. Will he be home for tea?
Maggie : We’ll do our best Mrs Kilroy.
They all get into the car and drive off. Mrs Kilroy stands at the front porch and waves goodbye to her son.
AT THE STATION
PJ and Maggie come into the station the front way. Maggie escorts Danny to the interview room while PJ goes into Tom’s office.
IN TOM’S OFFICE
Tom takes off his glasses as PJ arrives.
Tom : Well?
PJ : Looks like he’s our man.
Tom : He’s got form PJ. Adam’ll fill you in.
PJ : Thanks Boss.
PJ leaves Tom’s office and goes to talk to Adam
IN THE INTERVIEW ROOM
Danny is sitting down and Maggie is sitting opposite him. nick is beside the door. PJ comes in.
PJ : Thanks Nick. (Nick leaves) Now Mr Kilroy, why did you run from us today?
Danny keeps quiet.
Maggie : Oh c’mon Danny. You must have had a reason.
Danny : I just felt like going for a run ok.
PJ : Oh sure. I believe that. Now what were you doing in St Davids?
Danny : I was there on business.
Maggie : And what kind of business would that be?
Danny : I work in the distribution industry. I had to see some clients.
There’s a knock at the door. Adam comes in.
Adam : Sorry PJ.
PJ : Interview suspended at 14:24 for Detective Hasham to speak with Constable Cooper.
Maggie stops the tape. PJ goes up to Adam.
Adam : There’s been another burg PJ. This time it’s the hospital, the money for the Ball has been stolen.
PJ : Right. Watch him.
PJ and Maggie go out of the interview room and Adam stays in with Danny.
IN THE MAIN PART OF THE STATION
Tom : Nick, you and Dash go out to the hospital and get a statement from Zoe and anyone else who saw them. Check for the calling card and how much was taken.
Nick : But Boss. Can’t Adam go, I have heaps of paper work to do and....
Tom : Adam’s minding the prisoner. Just go out there and get her statement will you.
Nick : Yeah, lets go Deidre.
They leave.
Tom : Do you think he could have done it?
Maggie : It’s possible. His mother said that he was in St Davids but so far we haven’t had anyone corroborate his story.
PJ : It’s possible he told her that he was going to St Davids but instead stayed in Mt Thomas and stole the money.
Adam comes out of the interview room.
Tom : Ok. Adam, check with the banks to see if a Mr Danny Kilroy has recently made large deposits into a bank account. I’ll bet he’s mad several and they’re all just after the robberies took place.
Adam : Got it Boss.
Tom : And you two, go back in there and see what he has to say.
IN THE INTERVIEW ROOM
Maggie and PJ come back into the interview room.
PJ : Right, we’ll need names and contact addresses from you to check out your story.
Danny : I’m afraid that’s not possible.
Maggie : Why ever not?
Danny : My records are confidential and under no circumstances may I divulge that information.
PJ leans into Danny.
PJ : I think you’ve got something to hide Danny. Now why don’t you cut the crap and tell us the truth.
Danny remains quiet.
Maggie : What’s the matter Mr Kilroy? Got nothing to say?
Danny is still quiet.
PJ : Right. I put it to you that you didn’t go to St Davids at all. You stayed in Mt Thomas instead. You knew that the hospital was having a fundraising Ball you stole the money.
Danny : What?
PJ : Oh, you didn’t let your dear old mother find out about it. The bank didn’t grant you the loan you wanted so you had to get the cash some other way.
There’s a knock at the door. Adam comes in. Maggie goes up to him and he whispers something to her. He leaves and closes the door behind him.
Maggie : The bank has confirmed that you have made various deposits into your bank account, each time just after we had a burglary reported. What do you say to that Mr Kilroy?
Danny : Coincidence.
Maggie : Oh, I don’t think so. I think that you committed those burgs and then deposited then into your account. The only one that hasn’t been deposited is the hospital money. Where’s that Mr Kilroy?
Danny : I told you, I don’t know what you’re talking about.
PJ : You know, I bet that it’s still in your car. We found you before you had a chance to put it in the bank didn’t we.
They get up to leave.
Danny : Wait, where are you going?
PJ : To your place, I bet we’ll find that money in the back of your car.
Danny : You can’t do that.
Maggie : We can get a warrant if you would rather. But it’s in your best interests that you co-operate with us.
Danny : Yeah, alright. But my mother had nothing to do with it.
PJ : That’s right. Mummy’s little boy.
They leave.
AT KILROY’S HOUSE
PJ and Maggie are looking through Danny’s car. Maggie feels under a seat and finds a small bag.
Maggie : Got it.
PJ : Well done Doyle.
Maggie opens the bag and quickly counts the money.
Maggie : Close to two grand here.
PJ : Bingo.
Mrs Kilroy come out of the house.
Mrs Kilroy : What do you two think you’re doing.
PJ : Mrs Kilroy, we have reasont obelieve that your sone has been involved in some
illegal activities involving obtaining money.
Mrs Kilroy : I told him that it wasn’t neccessary. My husband had left me quite a modest sum after his death and I could have paid for the treatment quite easily myself.
Maggie : Then why did danny insist on paying for you?
Mrs Kilroy : Tyring to be the good son I suppose. is he in much trouble?
PJ : I’m afraid so Mrs Kilroy.
Mrs Kilroy : Can I see him?
Maggie : We’d be happy to give you a lift down to the station if you’d like. We’ve just about finished here.
Mrs Kilroy : I’ll just go inside and get my things.
She heads off towards the house and PJ goes to the CI car. PJ picks up the radio.
PJ : Mt Thomas 301 to Mt Thomas Station.
Tom’s voice comes over the radio.
Radio : Go ahead PJ.
PJ : Boss, we’ve found the money in Kilroy’s car.
Radio : Right, wrap it up and come back. Danny’s just about confessed the whole thing to Adam.
PJ : Got that Boss. Mrs Kilroy also wants to see her son.
Radio : Ok. Mt Thomas station back on channel.
Maggie comes over from Danny’s car.
Maggie : Look what I found.
She hands him a small pile of cards. PJ looks at them
PJ : Looks like we’ve found our Robin Hood.
Maggie : Yep.
Mrs Kilroy comes out of the house. Maggie opens the door for her.
Mrs Kilroy : Thank you.
Maggie closes the door and gets in her seat. They drive off.
IN THE STATION
Adam is fingerprinting Kilroy when PJ, Maggie and Mrs Kilroy come into the station the front way. Mrs Kilroy sees her son and rushes over to him.
Mrs Kilroy : Danny!
Danny : I’m sorry Mum.
Mrs Kilroy : Why?
Adam takes away the fingerprints and hands Danny a tissue which he takes.
Danny : I wanted show you that I wasn’t some no-hope loser.
Mrs Kilroy hugs her son. PJ and Maggie go into Tom’s office.
IN TOM’S OFFICE
Maggie puts the small bag of money on the table.
Tom : So he just wanted to show his mother that he still cared for her.
PJ : That’s about it.
Nick and Dash come into the station followed by Zoe. Tom gets up and goes out of his office. PJ and Maggie follow him. Tom gives the money to Zoe. She looks in the bag. does a quick calculation and then closes the bag.
Zoe : Yep, it’s all here.
Tom : The offender needed the money for his mother’s breast cancer treatment.
Zoe : Well I can’t see the logic in stealing the money we’ve raised for the new breast cancer unit if his mother was going to be treated for it. And as I understood it, her husband had recently died and left her quite a sum of money.
PJ : Danny didn’t know that though.
Zoe : It’s a pity. Is he being charged?
Tom : We’re way ahead of you Zoe. he’s been charged and has been released on bail put up by his mother.
Maggie : Maybe now he’ll stay out of trouble for a while.
PJ : Once a crook always a crook Maggs.
Maggie : Well, he did have good intentions.
Zoe : Speaking of crooks, you haven’t forgotten about the Ball tomorow night?
PJ : No, of course not. Ms Doyle here won’t let me forget it.
Zoe : Good on you Maggie. I expect to see you all there tomorrow night.
She gives Nick a look and then leaves.
THE NEXT NIGHT - PJ’S HOUSE
PJ is in his bathroom, sitting on the lid of the toilet. He pulls out a piece of paper from his pocket.
PJ : How do I know what a beast is supposed to look like?
He get’s up and goes into his bedroom.
MAGGIE AND DASH’S HOUSE
Dash is fixing up her hair as Maggie comes out of a room to show Dash what she’s wearing.
Maggie : What do you think?
Dash : Very nice Maggie. At least you look the part. How I’m supposed to look like Goldilocks is beyond me.
Maggie : You look ok to me. At least you didn’t get Barbie!
Maggie returns to her room.
Dash : Yeah, I guess you’re right.
AT THE IMPERIAL
The pub has been decorated with a fantasy theme. Zoe is at the door, standing behind a table nametags on it. She greets each person as they come in and hands them a nametag. Dash and Maggie come in.
Zoe : "Beauty" I presume. Here’s your nametag. And you are?
Dash : Goldilocks.
Zoe : I knew that. Here you are (hands dash a nametag). Thanks for coming and I hope that you have a good time.
Dash : Where’s your costume Zoe?
Zoe : It in the kitchen waiting for me to put it on. I’m just waiting for everyone to arrive before I put it on. That way, no-one will know who I am.
Maggie : Good plan.Thanks Zoe.
They move off into the party.
The next guest to come in is someone in a brown furry outfit. He is carrying a rose.
Zoe : Oh, the beast. (hands him a name tag) Your partner just came in.
PJ : Thanks. (in a gruff voice)
He makes his way into the party.
IN THE PARTY
PJ spots Maggie and Dash chatting near the bar. He makes his way over to them, bumping into a couple of people on the way because he can’t see very well through his outfit. Finally he makes it to where Maggie and Dash are. He looks at the Maggie’s nametag then goes behind her.
PJ : (still in his gruff voice) For you my dear. (he holds out the rose)
Maggie turns around to face the beast. She screams and then realises that he is her partner.
Maggie : Thank you.
She takes the rose from him.
Dash : Well, it looks like you’ve found your partner. I’ll leave you to it.
She leaves them.
AT THE ENTRANCE
Tom comes in to the pub dressed as a grandfather clock.
Zoe : Ah ha. The grandfather clock. You’re late, your partner arrived ages ago. Here you are.
Tom : Thanks, not that I really need it in this outfit.
He goes off to join the party.
There is only one nametag on the table. Nick comes in dressed quite amusingy as a dwarf.
Zoe : And last but not least, the dwarf.
She gives him the nametag.
Nick : Thanks, thanks a lot.
He grumbles something as he joins the party. Zoe follows him in and stops at the front of the party.
Zoe : Attention everyone! All our fantasy guests have arrived. Thank you all for coming tonight. I’m sure you’re all wondering where your partners are. I see some of you have already met up with them. Well let the searching begin. When the clock strikes twelve, you may all remove your masks but not before that. Happy Hunting.
She leaves in the direction of the kitchen to get changed. On the way she bumps into Chris on the way.
Chris : Looks like a success Zoe.
Zoe : Thanks for all your help Chris.
Chris : My pleasure.
Zoe dissappears into the kitchen.
LATER - IN THE PARTY
PJ is still talking to Maggie although they still don’t know who the other is.
PJ : Can I get you a drink, my beauty? (still in his gruff voice)
Maggie : That would be lovely, thanks. (in an airy voice)
He leaves to get the drinks.
In another part of the party, Adam, as Prince Charming as talking to Cinderella. Dash is still looking for her three bears. She spots someone dressed in brown with three bears heads pinned down his body. She goes over to him.
Dash : You’ve been so hard to find!
Man : And you too!
Dash : Well, I don’t look much like a Goldilocks.
Man : You’re much prettier.
Dash is surprised but smiles.
In another part of the party, PJ returns with the drinks.
PJ : Here you are my dear.
Maggie : You know, for a beast, you sure are sweet.
PJ : Maybe it’s got something to do with the sweetness of you.
Maggie : You know, I keep thinking I know you from somewhere.
PJ : I was thinking the same thing.
Maggie : I guess we’ll find out when the clock strikes twelve.
PJ : I hope that’s soon, becuase I can’t keep up this voicce for very much longer.
Maggie laughs.
Suddenly there is a loud noise, like a clock striking. It rings twelve times. Zoe (as Snow White) is talking to Nick (as a dwarf)
Zoe : I guess that’s it then.
They remove their masks. Nick has a look of shock on his face when he sees that he’s been talking to Zoe. Zoe just smiles.
Zoe : Well, well, well. Look who we have here.
Nick has a pained look on his face.
PJ and Maggie have just heard the clock chime. PJ puts down his glass of wine.
PJ : Shall I do the honours then?
Maggie : Only if I go first.
PJ : Ok.
Maggie reaches and takes PJ’s mask off. She is surprised by who she reveals.
Maggie : PJ! (in her normal voice)
PJ : Maggs?
PJ reaches and takes Maggies’s mask off.
PJ : Maggie!
They stare at each other in disbelief.
PJ : Maybe this is a sign.
Maggie : You don’t believe in signs PJ.
PJ : Well, I believe the fairy tale ends with the Beast taking his Princess to his house and they fall in love.
Maggie : You should be so lucky!
PJ : C’mon Maggs, you know how I feel about you.
Maggie considers this for a moment and then kisses him lightly on the cheek. She takes his hand and leads him out of the pub, smelling the rose with her free hand.
Maggie : It’s beautiful PJ.
And they leave the pub.
THE END
I hope that you liked it. Please mail me with any comments or suggestions.