The Takahe Stud

Press, 24 May 1977, Page 20

The Takahe Stud

l5

by

RAPHAEL J. MACLOUGHLIN

Wrapping his jacket around the unfortunate hunter’s body, Garth carried it back down the mountain. “Woa! Boy.’” the stud owner spoke softly, as his horse disturbed by the smell of blood attempted to pull away. Garth wasted no time in placing the lifeless form

“Yes, Mr Williams. Oh! I see. Well, I did ask in the beginning and . . .er, of course. The phone is not satisfactory. I’ll send an ambulance: I'll be there immediately.” “Good, inspector, you understand there’s nothing personal, but things can’t continue as they are.” re-

"Look. Mr Williams, I know exactly how you feel but just wait. ..” "Inspector, I DID wait. You and your men tracked the tiger to the old quarry on my land, then lost it,” retorted Garth. "Now I'm not waiting any longer!”

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across his saddle for he knew the tiger could appear at any moment. A short time later, Garth heaved a sigh of relief as the familiar sight of the stud came into view. “Now,” he muttered, “let me see if I can get to the stables without Penny of Mrs Miles see-

torted Garth, ending the conversation. “Wonder if the ambulance has arrived?” mused the inspector as he drove towards the stud. “Williams was annoyed, can’t blame him, I suppose. None of this would have happened if I’d been

JI right, Mr Williams, but I’d like > remind you of your young daughter. It would be stupid to do anything rash.” “It’s because of my daughter I’m taking action. As things stand, I can t let her out of the house. Goodday!”

ing anything. No point in having them upset.” The stud owner was grateful to sit and drink the sweet tea Penny gave him moments later. “Would you phone Inspector Hawkins?” he asked between sips.

allowed to call in the Army. Oh, well. I'll try and pacify him: nothing's as bothersome as a self-righteous citizen.' A short time later, a cautious inspector, greeted Garth. “Er. did the ambulance arrive?” “It's just left; inspector, come in.”

The heated conversation had been overheard by a worried Penny. What did her father mean, she thought, about taking action.