The Suspects Gather

"Quigley, is everybody here?" Mews asked as he entered the living room."

"Everyone but Magnus-but we can get him on the horn when need be," Quigley said.

"Very good," Mews said looking around the room.  The suspects were quietly muttering to one another and avoiding eye contact with Mr Mews-everyone except for Mrs Snodgrass.

"Let's get on with this already Mews.  I've got a cheese souffle baking and guests to entertain for my New Years Party," she said looking peevish.

"I'm afraid the souffle with have to wait," Mews said.  "We have a mystery to solve."

Suspects 7 and 8: Constance Snodgrass and Beauregard

Beauregard

Constance Snodgrass

If it was up to me I'd have locked Snodgrass up weeks ago," Quigley said looking agitated.

"Yes, I think we are all well aware of your attitude towards Snodgrass, Quigs.  And she is our number one suspect but only because she did at one time wage a building-wide anti-dog campaign.  But that was years ago and really, we have no proof that Snodgrass has anything to do with the current case.  What further complicates things is that apparently she has some sort of relationship with this Beauregard character who is most definitely a dog.  Perhaps she's had a change of heart and is no longer a dogist."

"It is curious.  If she is the dog hater that she claims to be than why mingle with Beauregard?  And what do we know of Beauregard anyway Mews?"

"Not much my friend, except that he may have a prejudice against small dogs.  Didn't you tell me you saw him snarling at a tea cup chihuahua just the other day while you were following him?"  Mews asked as Quigley nodded.  "I'm afraid I don't have much on Beauregard.  My initial suspicion was simply that he was associated with Constance Snodgrass.  Now, I'm not sure.  I'm not sure of any of this Quigley.  I'll need a day of serious contemplation before I can solve this mystery once and for all.  I'll need you to leave me on my own and then come by in the evening for port.  I believe I'll have something for you by then," Mews said looking stoic.

"I have just the port in mind Mews," Quigley said looking excited.  "It will help soothe your addled brain and at once stimulate your creative process.  I look forward to it Mews." 

Suspects 5 and 6: Jean Claude Reveneau and the Swedish Twins

M. Reveneau

"Although we haven't seen much of Jean Claude Reveneau," Mews said munching on an apricot scone, "he was not bashful about his disdain for dogs last we talked."

"And what would M. Reveneau's motive be Mews?"

"Jean Claude strikes me as an arrogant, but simple man.  I don't imagine him strutting around and concocting a plan.  No, I think he is the type that acts impulsively.  Perhaps he heard barking, and in a fit of anger wrote a nasty note."

"And the Twins?  Surely such a lovely pair of creatures couldn't possibly be capable of such barbarism Mews," Quigley said giving his feathers a quick cleaning.

"I don't suppose you could find fault with the twins on any account, could you Quigley?"  Quigley smiled.

"I suppose I may be a little biased on this one Mews.  And that is why I've got you to set my head straight.  Honestly, I can't see that the twins would have any reason to get rid of Horst."

"Oh, but you forget that our female counterparts can be most wickedly motivated when awoken abruptly in the night by noisy neighbors on a regular basis.  And you do remember that Pernilla was trying to hide her peevishness at being subjected to Horst and Magnus' arguing."

"I suppose they could've been out of their minds due to a lack of sleep and written the notes hastily in the night only to regret it the next morning."

"Regret does not make the act any less egregious," Mews said.

"That's true Mews.  But I can certainly imagine their anger at being awoken in the night.  Even I might be capable of a nasty act while delirious from lack of sleep."

"Is that a fact Quigley?" Mews asked with eyebrows raised.

P.S. Don't forget to vote!

Pernilla and Ingeborg

Suspects 3 and 4: Magnus and Horst

Magnus

 "Horst gave me this photo of his former-ahem-friend, Magnus who now resides in Berlin," Mews explained to Quigley who was busy refilling his tea cup.  "While Magnus was out of the country by the time the notes began it is possible that he could've set something up using an accomplice."

"And Magnus' motive?" Quigley asked.

"He was a jilted lover.  He was bitter that Horst rejected his plea to move with him overseas.  He could have decided to "scare" Horst into moving with him. 

Horst

"And Horst?  As a suspect?  But he is the victim here Mews.  Why on earth would Horst harass himself?"

"Stranger things have happened Quigs.  While unlikely, we must not rule him out if we are to be thorough.  It may be that he is motivated simply by narcissism.  The squeaky wheel gets the attention, right?  Or perhaps he has decided to set someone else up.  Maybe he doesn't like Mrs Snodgrass and wishes to drive her out of the building by making her look like a dogist."
 
"That would be a very passive aggressive maneuver wouldn't it Mews?"

"Yes, yes it would Quigs.  Now, more tea and more suspects.  Are you ready?" Mews asked as Quigley wearily nodded.

Suspects 1 and 2: Mews and Quigley

"Mon dieu Mews!  You can't possibly expect me to believe that after all this time you are the culprit.  Tell me you're just being thorough Mews," Quigley said looking anxious.

"I am being thorough and fair.  I do live in the building.  Dogs are my natural enemy.  There is no reason why I should be presumed innocent just because I am the sleuth."

"Okay, Mews, and I suppose I, as your sidekick, cannot be completely ruled out as well," Quigley said looking chagrined.

"That's right Quigley.  A detective, as you know, ought to deduce in a systematic manner as a scientist would.  That is why you and I cannot be completely ruled out although I know that I didn't do it."

"And I know that I didn't do it!"  Quigley shouted.

"But I don't know for sure that you didn't do it," Mews said.

"And I don't know for sure, Mews, that you did not do it!"  Quigley looked confused.  "Goodness, my head is spinning Mews.  I think I need a strong cup of tea."

"Yes, I agree Quigs.  And after tea we'll get straight to the next suspect who is neither you nor I."

"Thank goodness Mews.  I think I was starting to sweat.  Metaphorically, of course," Quigley said with a knowing nod.

Mews Reviews the Case

"Quigley, you've done an excellent job investigating.  We now know for certain that our prime suspect, Mrs Snodgrass, is acquainted with another suspect, Mr Beauregard.  It's finally time to review the case, our list of suspects, and their motives."

"What's to review of the case Mews?  Two anti-dog notes were left on Horst's door that read, 'Go home dog.'  Let's get on with things already and get straight to the suspects!"

"Very well, Quigley.  Your impatience-while aggravating-can be inspiring at times.  There's been enough dawdling.  Let's get straight to the suspect list."

"Excellent!  Now Mews, what dubious, potential dog- hating operater is first on the list?"

"Well, Quigley, why don't we start close to home-with none other than myself?"

Quigley Follows Beauregard to Mrs Snodgrass' Country Estate

 
                      
"Just as I suspected," Quigley quietly muttered to himself as he hid motionless amongst the dormant grape vines.  "Beauregard and Snodgrass are surely scheming.  I shall report to Mews at once.  This caper's days are numbered!" 

Quigley Trails Beauregard

"Looks as if this jowly fellow is about to make a phone call.  True, it's not exactly a felony.  Still, he's our last and most elusive suspect.  He's been known to have colluded with Constance Snodgrass in the past and I shall follow him until the day is dark and see what I can learn since he won't return Mr Mews' phone calls. . ."

Quigley Investigates

Finally, I've found Beauregard's residence.  I must get closer.

No, this won't do.  I'll surely be spotted here.

Ah, a touch of solstice sun.  How delightful.  Mews will be envious-what is this I see?

Beauregard leaving his building.  I shall follow him and see where he goes!

Mews Gives Quigley a Mission

"Mews, something about this Magnus character doesn't sit right with me," Quigley said taking a seat near the window.

"Yes, yes.  I know what you mean Quigley," Mews said, nodding.  "I'm afraid that Horst may still be withholding information from us.  Something doesn't feel right about our conversation with him.  I'll need time to review my notes and search for any inconsistencies."

"What's next then?  We have one more suspect left to interview isn't that right?"

"Yes, and that's where you come in Quigley.  I need some time to think and I need you to track down this Beauregard fellow."

"Are you saying I finally get to do some hard-boiled gumshoeing?  Oh dear, this is exciting," Quigley said as Mews handed him an address.

"I expect, Quigley, that you will keep a low profile and use your avian skills to the best of your abilities," Mews said.

"Mews! Are you implying that I swoop about from rooftop to rooftop whilst eavesdropping?"  Quigley asked.

"You might need to drop in on a few eaves, yes," Mews said with a grin.

Mews Listens to Horst's Story

"Magnus and I ended our relationship last summer because I would not accompany him to Berlin where his musical career was taking him.  Magnus is a tenor-he has a voice of the angels.  Anyway, I finally told him that I was tired of tramping around the world with him from city to city, production to production.  He didn't take it well I'm afraid and that's when the Swedish twins heard the arguments."

"I see," Mews said as he studied his guest.  

"But I'm certain Magnus is not a suspect Mr Mews.  You see he left the country before the nasty notes appeared."

"It would seem unlikely that Magnus is involved-however-we can't rule him out just yet."

"Yes, of course," Horst said looking glum.  "It's just that I can't bear to think that Magnus could be capable of such cruelty."    

Horst Opens Up

"I'm afraid I'm wracked with guilt," Horst said looking chagrined.  "You've both done all this work to find my antagonizer and I've barely lifted a finger to assist you in in my own case."

"Darn right Mr Horst!  I might add that you may have potentially gone so far as to harm your case," Quigley said, hopping onto the edge of the sofa.

"Nonsense, Quigley," Mews said from the kitchen.  "Why don't you relax and take a seat.  I fear you are intimidating our guest.  Now, Horst.  What can you tell us about this dog friend of yours that you were heard arguing with last summer?"

"Yes, okay.  If I may say one thing in my defense first.  I refrained from telling you about Magnus because I wanted to be discreet about my affairs.  It's hard enough being a petite dog-if you know what I mean."  Mews and Quigley exchanged looks and settled into their seats with some freshly brewed Irish tea.

Mews and Quigley Discuss Horst's Mysterious Visitor

"Mews, we must interview Horst at once.  He is withholding important information-who is this dog that he was heard arguing with?"  Quigley was getting agitated and he began hopping up and down.  "Mews.  Horst has become an unreliable witness.  Indeed, withholding such information is itself a crime!"

"Calm yourself Quigley.  Horst is not on trial here.  There is no court, no jury, no judge," Mews said.

"He's protecting someone Mews, I just know it!  I shall fly over to Horst's at once and interrogate him!"  

"No need for such impudent behavior Quigs.  I've already called him and scheduled an inquiry for the weekend.  Now, finish your tea and relax.  The last thing I need is an angry bird flapping about the building spreading rumors and even more anxiety!"

The Swedish Twins Join Mews and Quigley for Tea

"If only this meeting was under more pleasant circumstances," Quigley said looking serious.  "You must understand that the two of you are in no way suspects in this case," Quigley said ignoring Mews' look.  "We just want to know if you have any more information that would be of value to this case."

"I understand that our neighbor Mr Horst is being bullied, yah?  With angry notes?" Ingeborg asked.  "Because he is a dog?  But he seems so nice and refined.  We often hear the loveliest of music coming from his walls during the day," Ingeborg added.  "He also gives us wurst from time to time."
 
"Ah, yes.  I quite like the ones spiced with peppercorns," Quigley said pulling himself nearer to the couch.

"He does make a fine wurst, but perhaps we can get back to the matter at hand," Mews said giving Quigley a measured look.  "Ladies.  You say you hear sounds from Horst's apartment.  "Have you heard anything unusual?"  

"I don't know if you call arguing unusual," Pernilla said while she stirred her tea.  "But ya, lots of quarreling last summer."

"Oh yes, that was dreadful.  Sometimes the growling and the barking was so loud that it woke us both in the night!"  Ingeborg said.

"Growling?"  Quigley asked.  "Barking?"

"Oh yes, the both of them.  And the other dog-he seemed much gruffer, much louder," Pernilla added.

"Did you say that there was another dog?"  Mews asked turning off the stove with a quiet and thoughtful motion.  

Quigley Insists That He Help Interview the Swedish Twins

"Now, Mews.  I have to insist that I be present when you interview Ingeborg and Pernilla this coming week."

"Oh you do, do you?  And why is that Quigs?"

"Well, last I saw them-Ingeborg especially- was quite shaken up over this ordeal.  They simply can't believe that they are suspects in this case.  I'm sure that they would feel much more at ease-and therefore more willing to cooperate-if a person they consider a friend were present at the inquiry."  Mews leaned back and smiled at Quigley.

"I believe you're absolutely right Quigs.  I'm afraid I must insist that you keep your schedule open early this week."

"Yes, very well, I shall do just that Mews," Quigley said pressing out his downy breast with satified elan.

Mr Mews and Quigley Consult

"Mews, what did you learn about this Jean Claude fellow?  He's always struck me as a bit vapid and cocky that one."

"Unfortunately, I learned very little except that our French neighbor enjoys his food and wine a good deal. And that he has a thing for the Swedish twins Ingeborg and Pernilla."

"Indeed.  As if he would have a chance in hellfire with either of them."
  
"Yes, well, Jean Claude's love life is little of my concern," Mews said with a measured look.

"Of course," Quigley said looking a little sheepish.  "Did you note anything suspicious about Reveneau?  Anything-out of the ordinary?"

"He did seem altogether eager about discussing his prejudice against dogs including a rather close call with an Irish Shepard out on his grandfather's farm.  But no, I'd have to say I don't get a feeling that Jean Claude is behind the nasty notes."

"Ah, but Mews, maybe that's exactly what he wants you to think!"

Jean Claude is Wined and Dined

"Oui, Mews, ce diner est grand!  I am-how you say-stuffed to the gills.  This pork-so tender-the salad nicoise-sublime.  Pour me some more of that Cabernet and I'll admit to anything!  Now, monsieur, what is this bone you have to pick?  You think that I have something to do with this Horst?  You think I want the dog out of the building?  No.  I have nothing to do with anything.  Do I like the dogs?  No.  But I am a rooster.  A cock if you will.  It is natural that I do not like the dogs.  But do I harass them?  No.  I live, I let live."  Jean Claude smiles and winks at Mews as he raises his goblet.  "The only ones I perhaps "harass" are the ladies if you know what I mean.  And they don't seem to mind to much.  No?  Oui?  Ah, have you met those Swedish sisters yet?  Ingeborg and Pernilla?  Oo la la!  Ces filles sont jolie!"

Mr Mews Questions a Rooster

"Jean Claude Reveneau, I appreciate you coming over on such short notice.  I realize this isn't the ideal manner in which to get acquainted."

"I should say not Monsieur Mews.  I feel as if your invitation was more a subpoena rather than an offer for dinner.  A bit barbaric, in fact.  I'm much more accustomed to an invitation for a snort of brandy along with a fine Cohiba rather than an interrogation. Mon dieu!  I almost did not attend.  And it is a rare event that Jean Claude Reveneau does not accept a dinner offer."
  
I'm afraid this visit has entirely gotten off on the wrong foot mon frere.  In my eager attempts to solve this mystery I've forgotten my manners.  Now, Jean Claude, let's get acquainted.  Might I interest you in a proper dinner?"

Quigley Defends Himself

"It is blurry Quigley.  But I would recognize that tail anywhere," Mews said scratching at his chin as Quigley looked on.  "You don't deny it do you?"

"No, of course not Mews," Quigley said with exasperation.  But certainly you don't believe that I'm a suspect in this matter Mews.  Mews?"

"Of course not Quig.  But tell me, what were you doing there, near Horst's door?  You really have no reason to be on that floor.  May I ask what your business was that evening?"  Quigley slowly nodded.

"If you must know, I was returning a sweater left by Ingeborg.  She lives on Horst's floor."

"One of the Swedish twins?"

"Yes.  She joined me for a glass of claret the night before the last letter appeared.  She's a lovely bird, and I can't imagine she has any involvement in the case of the nasty notes Mews."

"Lovely isn't actually a defense or an alibi for that matter Quigley.  I shall have to interrogate Ingeborg you know.  She and her sister Pernilla are two of my prime suspects."

"Certainly, I understand Mews.  I'm sure that you'll find Ingeborg to be most cooperative," Quigley said shaking out a wing.  Mews looked at him and smiled.

"I'll make note of that Quigley," Mews said as he showed Quigley to the window.  "Now see what you can find out about this Beauregard Chandliss fellow from your friends downtown."

Mr Mews Rounds Up Some Unusual Suspects

"Mews, where on earth have you been?  You haven't returned my phone calls for days!  I can only imagine you've been extremely preoccupied with the case.  Have you any leads?"  Quigley asked.  He sounded out of breath on the phone.

"Indeed I have been busy Quigs.  I've now assembled a list of prime suspects in the Horst case based on the building's camera footage that I've been investigating.  This list is a compilation of suspects that were seen lurking near the front door of Horst's apartment the night that the last note appeared."

"Oh dear, this is exciting.  Do tell!  Who is on the list Mews?"

"Yes.  Well, Mrs Snodgrass of course-although she does just live across the hall from Horst.  The Swedish bird sisters, Ingeborg and Pernilla."

"Ingeborg and Pernilla!  Really."

"John Claude Reveneau-the new French fellow on the first floor," Mews said continuing with his list.  "Beauregard Chandliss..."

"Yes, and is that it?"  Quigley asked excitedly.

"No.  There is one more figure that appeared on the hall monitor that night."

"Yes, and who might that be Mews?"

"It seems to be a certain unlikely fellow by the name of Alistair Quigley!"

More Suspects Emerge

"So Mews.  I've been patient and while critical of your latest plan to befriend our prime suspect I've "bitten my beak" and accepted it.  Now I think it's time you 
tell me what you know."
 
"Fair enough Quigs." Mews leaned forward.  "I did hear something a little odd as we were finishing up our vanilla trifle.  Mrs Snodgrass received a phone call.  It's seems that she was talking to someone named Beauregard."
  
"Beauregard," Quigley repeated quietly.

"Yes.  But that's not all.  I heard her say that 'Mews doesn't know anything.'  Now if that's not suspicious I'm not sure what is."

"Indeed.  Beauregard. Why does that sound familiar Mews?"

"It sounds familiar because I believe someone by that name moved out of the building over a year ago.  And I believe that this Beauregard was indeed a dog."

"A dog? Well that is strange."

"Now, Quigley.  Before you jump to any conclusions I have a task for you.  Here's a list of potential suspects I've gathered over the course of the last two weeks.  See what kind of information you can come up with and get back to me as quickly as possible.  We must get this case solved before something else happens.  Something worse than nasty notes."  

Mr Mews Plays A Dangerous Game

"Mews, you're playing with fire.  I'm not sure I can go along with this charade.  I'm ill at ease with this plan, my dear friend," Quigley said nervously sipping at his coffee.

"It's really quite simple Quigs.  I'm sorry if I'm putting you out, but really, this is the best plan.  If Mrs Snodgrass thinks that you and I are on the outs based on her conversation with me then I have a way in with her.  She is much too clever to divulge any information at face value.  And I know she knows something about the nasty notes Quigley."

"And why is that Mews?"

"It's a hunch, Quigs.  But my intuition has never let me down just yet."   
 

Mrs Snodgrass Makes a Startling Insinuation

"Yes I know of Horst," Mrs Snodgrass said.  "The canine from Bavaria.  No, I can't say I know anything about him and I'm not afraid to say that I don't really care much to.  He is after all, a dog Mews.  What is this all about?"

"As you may know someone in the building is leaving nasty notes on Horst's door," Mews said.

"Yes, I've heard of these notes.  And I assure you I know nothing of their origin.  Surely you don't think that I have anything to do with this Mews?"

"I'm by no means implying that you have anything to do with this.  I'm just asking around the building.  Do you happen to know of anyone that might have an issue with Horst?"

"Certainly.  More or less every bird and cat.  Even that dreadfully hyperactive Quigley would agree with me on that.  Maybe you ought to look a little closer to home to find some answers Mr Mews.  Perhaps you don't know this Quigley as well as you think.  He seems to make enemies rather easily.  Now, let me ring for dinner.  I can smell the lobster bisque and it's driving me to madness!"

Mr Mews Sips Kir Royale

"Those crabs cake were exceptionally moist Constance."

"It's all Mrs. Crowley's doing, my cook.  I took her on after her husband passed.  I'd be a slip of a woman without her-oh, but that might not be such a bad thing."

"Well, now, I think your shape is quite healthy and robust for a woman of your-ahem-maturity."  Mrs Snodgrass smiled and her eyes narrowed.

"You do have a unique command of the language now don't you Mews."  She settled into her seat.  "Now that we've had something to fill our stomachs why don't we get on with things.  Why is it, Mews, that'd you've so campaigned for my ear.  Are you here to discuss building politics or my physique?"

"I'm afraid I do have an ulterior motive.  What do you know of Horst, the dog from Bavaria?"

Mr Mews Enters the Lionness's Den

"Mr. Mews, do come in.  At last, we finally meet.  I have my cook mixing up some crab cakes for us-would you like a cocktail? How about a kir royale to start things out.  I do adore a reason for a late afternoon champagne."

"Yes, sounds lovely Mrs Snodgrass.  That's sounds just about right." 

"Good.  I do hope we can get started off on the right foot.  There seems to be a tremendous amount of rumors running wild in the building-perhaps it's up to us to set things straight being the, well, more mature denizens of Hoyt Street.  It's been ages since we last talked.  It seems that I'm spending more time in my Florida penthouse than I do here anymore.  I suppose I've become one of those snowbirds.  Oh look, here come the crab cakes now.  Do sit before they get cold."

Horst Gets Questioned

"This is the third letter I've received as of today," Horst said while looking on at Mews and Quigley over a pot of Irish Breakfast. 

"And the others?  Do you have the first two letters?" Horst shook his head.

"Sadly no," he said.  "I tore them up and tossed them in the trash," Horst said with doleful eyes.  "At the time, I felt that was the best place for them."  Mews wasn't sure but he thought he saws some tears welling up.

"Right, well, what's done is done.  Let's review what we know.  There have been three letters-the first two handwritten, and now this one.  The first two said "Get lost Dog."  Mews shakes his head.  "I don't like the fact that this one is not handwritten."

"And why is that Mews?"  Quigley asked.

"Well, not only does it evoke a sort of ransom note, but it suggests that the perpetrator might be taking further steps to disguise his or her identity.  If that is the case, it might suggest that they are in fact not finished with their campaign.  Of course this is all speculation.  What else do you have to add Horst?"

"A thud." 

"Pardon?"

"Yes, I'm sure I heard a thud right before I opened the door and found the letter."

"Yes, all right.  A thud.  Make note of "a thud" Quigley, won't you?"

The Case of the Nasty Notes Gets Underway

"Quigley, you're right.  Enough of this dithering.  I've thought and I've thought and then I've thought some more."

"That's a lot of thinking, Mews.  So where has all this thinking gotten you?"

"Here's what we'll do.  We'll let Mrs Snodgrass get her way this time.  Let her think she has the upper hand.  That way she'll be relaxed and more likely to let her guard down.  And while she's vulnerable I shall trap her.  I shall get my answers and then-case solved!"

"Sounds like a good plan," Quigley said finishing the rest of his muffin.   "Not that that old battle axe might ever relax.  But I like where you're going with this Mews.  I fully support your decision to join her for dinner. Let's get this show on the road and begin our investigation!  Might I suggest that you bring a stiff bottle of Brandy to aide in her relaxation?"

"Yes, that's good Quigs.  Now here's the rest of the plan.  We join Horst tomorrow for lunch and extract as much information out of him as possible before my dinner with Snodgrass.  It's important to be armed properly with the latest information," Mews said tapping at his tea cup.
   
"And your strategy with Mrs Snodgrass once you've got her under your spell?"

"Hmm.  Yes.  Strategy.  Might have to do some thinking about that Quigs."

"

Mr Mews Retreats Into Thought

"This situation is getting complicated Quigley," Mews says over the phone.  "Mrs Snodgrass seems to be more clever than we once thought.  Yes, I think we should discuss this in the morning over coffee.  I have to say I'm not quite sure what my next move is.  I daresay, Quigs, it's true.  I'm actually. . . confused."

Mrs Snodgrass Extends Her Own Invitation

"Oh, Mews.  You are a rare creature.  I simply cannot decide if I should despise you or shake your hand.  It wouldn't even have occurred to a lesser man that my request was inappropriate.  And for that I admire you.  Yet, I'm still feeling a bit slighted and I'm not sure I'm feeling as if I might just roll over and expose my furry belly for you and that Quigley fellow whom I still find suspicious.  I am willing, however, to extend an invitation to you for dinner at my house.  That way we can forget this whole unfortunate Quigley problem and you can retain your unwavering principles.  Yours, Constance Snodgrass."

Quigley Makes an Inquiry

"So, Mews, have you heard from Snodgrass yet?  I thought I saw her peering at me from her window while I was collecting some seeds from the courtyard.  It was rather unnerving."

"Oh, yes about that," Mews said as he walked into the kitchen.

"So you have heard from her?"  Quigley was shouting from his chair.  "What did she say?  Are you having dinner?"

"Not exactly Quigs," Mews said standing over the sink.  "You see, I had to withdraw my invitation."

"What?  What on earth are you talking about?  What did she say?"

"Well," Mews said taking a deep breath.  "She said that she would have dinner with me as long as you weren't there."  At this Quigley choked on his tea and snorted.

"Indeed.  And let me guess-you rejected her out of principle."

"Of course, what else could I have done?"

"I applaud you Mews, but have you forgotten the plan to investigate Snodgrass?  She is still the number one suspect in the anti-Horst campaign.  Did you hear that another letter has appeared?  Oh dear, I'm afraid we may have lost our chance to interview her."
   
"Yes, I considered all of this Quigley.  But take heart.  I have a feeling we'll be hearing from her again.  She isn't one to quietly retreat in silence."

"Well, I hope you're right Mews.  I hope you're right."

Mr Mews Withdraws His Invitation

"Dear Mrs Snodgrass.  After a thoughtful holiday weekend considering your response to my invitation, I've come to the regrettable conclusion that I must withdraw my invitation to you for dinner on account of the unfortunate attitude you have taken with my dear friend Alistair Quigley.  It is with a heavy heart that I tell you that I simply cannot allow a potential guest of mine to dictate to me my very own guest list.  Again, it is with a most lamentable tone that I compose this missive as it has led to another unfortunate situation which is the awkward gesture of withdrawing my invite, but I wouldn't be a principled man if I didn't stand by my own principles.  As a lady of society I'm sure you can see the predicament I currently face.
   In conclusion, I do hope that you, Mrs. Snodgrass, do not view this as a rejection but as a problematic compromise.  I shall end this letter with a request that you take heart and reconsider your initial response.  Perhaps you made your decision amidst an emotional moment and that with time and a proper understanding of my position you will come to respond next with the tact and character that is expected of you.  Yours in sincerity, Mr Mews."

Mrs Snodgrass Responds

"Dear Mr Mews.  I am oddly flattered by your persistence and eccentric character.  I might say it's been a long time since a gentleman has showed interest in my company.  I am intrigued and I will accept your invitation for dinner with one request; I would prefer that this Quigley character not attend as I find his beady eyes and his constant chatter disagreeable.  Yours, Constance Snodgrass."

Mr Mews Doesn't Take No For An Answer

Hello?  Anyone home?

Sounds like footsteps.

Are you at home Mrs Snodgrass?

That Mews again.  He's really becoming a thorn in my side...

Mr Mews Gives Mrs Snodgrass One Last Chance

 "Dear Mrs. Snodgrass.  I don't mean to be a bother, and please understand that if I don't hear from you after this third and final attempt to engage you, I shall resign from my efforts to meet with you.  I hope you don't view my persistence as untoward but as eager to make your acquaintance.  Yours, Mr Mews."   

There.  That should do it.

Now to address the envelope-

C'est fini.

Mr Mews Explains the Weather

"Yes, I think it's going to be a wet, cold winter here in the Pacific Northwest Quigs," Mews states overlooking the courtyard.  "It's already quite blustery out.  Quigs, did you know that El Nina is Spanish for The Nina?"

"You're quite the comic, Mews.  Feeling a little jaunty today?  I don't know, this El Nino and El Nina business gets me terribly confused Mews," Quigley says over a mid afternoon huckleberry scone.

"Yes, it can be a little confounding.  Looks like we're in a La Nina cycle now which generally means there are cooler than normal sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.  The mid western and south eastern United States usually becomes drier and warmer, but the Pacific Northwest gets..."

"Colder and wetter, yes.  Drats.  Perhaps.  I should migrate to Florida for the winter Mews."

"And leave me here to fend for myself on these cold winter nights?  I'll have none of that talk Quigley!"  

Mews Muses Over Family Portraits

"The likeness is quite remarkable Mews," Quigley says sipping some Earl Grey tea. 

"Yes, Mews said without hesitation.  "It's quite uncanny how much I resemble Grandpapa Mews," he said with a sparkle in his eye.  "You know, Grandpapa always had a flair for words.  He knew just what to say and when to say it.  Perhaps I should conjure up Papa when I next approach Mrs. Snodgrass."

"Are you still hung up on that priss?  You've invited her twice for dinner and still no response."

"Yes, but this time I shall make the invitation a little more, let's say, irresistible."

Mr Mews Grows Nostalgic

 "Oh hello.  You caught me in a reverie.  I was rummaging through my closet looking for a London Fog raincoat and I came across this old box of Harry Whittier Frees books that I enjoyed in my youth.  If you don't mind, I think I'll return to my nostalgia.  It seems like it was a simpler time, but was it?"