Assembled Here the Volunteers

This week looks like it will be a busy one, so postings may be sparse. Still, fret not my fine yeomen, I can still bring you part 39 of “A Couple of Tenors Short”.

Giving a picture clue today would rather give the game away as to the track lyric that provides the title, but as always, I give you the answer.

OK, the quiz question out of the way, here is my mantra. This is a serial. Any new-joiners should start with the opener known as Part One.    

The troublesome recap has now settled into its new home. You can find the recap here!

Now read on...

The superintendant answered the phone and blustered for a few moments before his eyes opened wide and he suddenly mellowed, agreeing to take the call. Rushing over to the athletes, he grabbed his trousers and hurriedly put them on without removing his shoes, almost tumbling over in the process.

The superintendant became increasingly obsequious as the conversation went on until at last he replaced the receiver with a little bow. Afterwards, the superintendant drew himself up to full height, straightened his uniform and gave a cough.

 “That, Inspector was Sir Terrence Cauldron demanding to know why we have still got Phillip Duncan in the cells.” the superintendant stared at a spot a foot over the top of Jones’s head. “As he has co-operated fully, shouldn’t he have been bailed?”

“Enquiries are continuing and there are still some items that I feel that he could help with.” Jones gave a sigh. “Besides, Dunker doesn’t seem to be very keen to go. I believe he fears for his own safety.”

“Sir Andrew has said he is prepared to take Mr Duncan to a place of safety, has he not?” the Superintendant clasped his hands behind his back and flexed at the knees. “I suggest you bail Mr Duncan and release him into the custody of Sir Andrew.”

“But, sir...” Jones started to object.

“But, sir nothing.” The superintendant waved a palm of a hand at Jones. “My mind is made up and I order you to bail Mr Duncan!”

“I applaud you, Superintendant.” David Heatherington cut in, ignoring the scowl from Jones. “That is absolutely first rate decision making from you. First thing in the morning, bail Mr Duncan.”

“First thing in the morning?” the superintendant’s grin vanished as his head spun sideways to look at the security man. “What do you mean?”

“It will give me time to arrange extra security for Mr Duncan.” The security man stood up and looked out of the window. “It wouldn’t do if the nearest thing we have to a witness came to any harm, would it, superintendant?”

The superintendant coughed the nodded his agreement.

“Then we are agreed.” David Heatherington turned from the window and patted the Superintendant on the shoulder. “Good meeting everyone. Now, Inspector, walk with me.”

As the security man repacked his things into the embroidered bag, Jones shot a glance at the Superintendant. His superior made a shooing motion with both hands to indicate that he too considered the meeting over.

“Before I go, sir.” Jones looked at his superior. “I need you to authorise some weekend overtime for team.”

“Overtime! Out of the question!” the Superintendant’s cheeks began to flush. “We are less than a week away from the Light Entertainment Championships. Can’t be done. Besides, you need your rest. Relax and enjoy your weekend.”

Spotting the rising colour had spread to the superintendant’s nose; Jones fell in behind David Heatherington and headed for the heavy brass doors which swung open as they approached.

While the security man walked straight out into the lobby, Jones paused on the threshold and checked out the area for macaws before hurrying across the lobby to the lift.