A Case Of Murder (Kendall Book 6) Read Online Free

merely suggested that we must be absolutely certain of his guilt.” He paused for a few moments. “There’s a difference you understand.”
    Jury member number four shook his head. “Go ahead, discuss it. Do as you please,” he said. “Discuss it all you want. Let me know when you’ve finished.” He took a newspaper from his pocket and started to read it.
    And so the case was discussed from every angle. Forwards, backwards, and sideways. But at the end of fourteen hours and twenty-three minutes there was no getting away from the fact that the accused was guilty. Of that there was no doubt.
    * * *
    “You are free to go,” said the Judge once again.
    The Court bailiff indicated the door to their left, and intimated that they should now leave. Slowly the twelve good and true members stood up and made their way through the open doorway.
    “This Court is adjourned,” the Judge announced hitting the desk with his gavel. He stood up
    “All rise,” announced the Court Usher.
    The Judge bowed, turned and left the Courtroom.
    Members of the press rushed from the room anxious to get their stories to the press rooms. Court officials mingled with each other briefly, and then gradually left the room.
    * * *
    “Can I help you?” a voice asked as Kendall and Mollie reached the top of the stairs.
    “We are looking for the public gallery,” replied Mollie.
    “Which Courtroom, Miss?” the voice asked.
    Mollie looked at Kendall, and shook her head. “Courtroom number four,” replied Kendall.
    “Ah, the Crown Versus Collier,” replied the voice. “Second on the right. You best hurry though, his Lordship’s just about to start with the sentencing.”
    Kendall and Mollie thanked him and hurried along the corridor. They entered the public gallery just as the Judge began to speak.
    “I have considered all aspects of this case, and taken note of the recommendations of the Prosecution. I have also considered the mitigating circumstances put forward by the Defence.”
    The Judge paused and then turned his gaze towards the dock where the prisoner stood, flanked by two prison guards. In the Court there wasn’t a sound.
    “The prisoner will rise,” announced the Court Usher. One of the guards sitting by Collier’s side nudged him, and indicated that he was required to stand up.
    Collier stood up slowly, and looked at the Judge.
    “John Wyndham Collier, you have been found guilty in that you did wilfully murder Robert Andrews, as charged.”  The judge paused for a moment. “Have you anything to say before I pronounce sentence upon you?”
    Collier looked impassively at the judge. He said nothing but merely shook his head.
    “It is the sentence of this court that you be given Life Imprisonment, with a recommendation that you serve not less than twenty-five years.”  The Judge paused for a moment. There was another muffled groan from somewhere in the public gallery. The prisoner made no sound. “Officer, take him down.”
    The police officers standing either side of the prisoner placed a hand on to Collier’s shoulders, and lead him away.
    Members of the public up in the public gallery started to make their way down the stairs and out to the street. Amongst them Kendall and Mollie.
    * * *

 
    Chapter Three
    Chief Inspector Whittaker
     
    “Mr. Kendall,” a voice called out, as they came down the stairs. “And Miss Adams. It’s so good to see you again.”
    Tom Kendall smiled and offered his hand, as he reached the bottom of the staircase. “Inspector Whittaker,” he said. “It’s good to see you again.”
    “I was hoping to catch you before getting back,” said the Inspector. “And by the way, it’s Chief Inspector now.”
    Mollie stepped forward, put her arm around him and kissed him on the cheek. “Congratulations on the promotion, Chief Inspector,” she said.
    “So, when did that happen?” Kendall asked, patting the Inspector on the back.
    “Oh, a month or two back,” said the Chief Inspector.