Night of the Long Knives
Garrie Hall

	The investigators are invited to a revue of Chinese theatre by 
Professor Charles Ashbourne, expert on all aspects of China. He tells 
them that it is a social invitation but hints that there is some point 
to the meeting.
	A treat of Chinese culture is in store. Jugglers, gymnasts, 
dancers in dazzling costumes and paper dragons. The finale is a lady 
conjuror assisted by two giant Mongols. After an impressive display of 
magic and muscle flexing the finale, the classic box-of-swords 
illusion, starts.
	Both assistants are too massive to fit into the box so the 
conjurer calls for a volunteer from the audience. Much to his delight, 
Ashbourne is chosen from several enthusiastic volunteers. He steps 
into the box and the door closes behind him.
	The two Mongols spin the box then thrust their swords clean 
through it. The box is rotated again to show the swords protruding 
right through the box. Then the conjurer screams and faints.
	As the house lights go up blood can be seen running down the 
blades. The swords are withdrawn and the dead body of Professor 
Ashbourne tumbles from the box. The curtain drops, none too soon.

Possibilities
1       Ashbourne's death was an unfortunate accident, a trap door 
that should have opened below him malfunctioned. The theatre's 
insurance company has made a substantial out of court settlement to 
Ashbourne's widow.

2       Access to Ashbourne's papers will point towards his 
investigations into Chinese Tongs in London. In particular he seems 
fascinated by Dr Cheng, an almost legendary figure wielding absolute 
power. Ashbourne was getting too close and was eliminated.

3       Ashbourne's wife was having an affair with the son of a peer 
of the realm. Using his contacts in the Chinese community, they 
arranged his death. In return they are to pay the Tongs half the 
insurance money that Mrs Ashbourne stands to receive from both her 
husband's and the theatre's policies.

Copyright (c) 1990 Garrie Hall