english-e-books.net CHAPTER ONE A Stranger in Woodend On Saturday, 31st October, 1964, a man arrived in the village. It was late in the evening. He was looking for somewhere to stay the night. He knocked at a door and a woman opened it. 'Good evening, madam,' the man said. 'I'm sorry it's so late. But can you help me, please? Is there a hotel in this village? I want to stay here tonight.' The woman laughed. 'A hotel? Here in Woodend? No, sir, I'm afraid there isn't.' 'What a pity,' said the man. 'I'm a stranger here. And I want to see your village tomorrow.' The stranger was very polite. He was tall and had dark hair. And he had strange green eyes. 'Perhaps Mrs Harrison can help you,' the woman said. 'She has a room. Perhaps you can stay with her. Wait a minute. I'll get my coat, and I'll take you there.' The woman took the stranger to Mrs Harrison's house. Mrs Harrison gave him a room for the night. He was very glad. It was the last night of October and it was cold. The next day was Sunday. The man looked round the village. He was very interested in the history of the village. He met some of the villagers and asked them their names. But he did not visit the church. That was unusual. The church in Woodend was the most beautiful building in the village. But the stranger was not interested in it. He did not go to church that night with all the villagers. It was the first Sunday evening of November. When the villagers came out of the church, the man had gone. They had all liked him. The ladies had thought he was very good-looking. A few weeks later, he came back. It was the first Sunday in December. The villagers were coming out of church. It was cold and dark. english-e-books.net 'Hello he said. 'I'm back again. It's nice to see you all once more.' His next words surprised everyone. 'Perhaps you can help me,' he said. 'I'm looking for a house. I want to buy a house here.' 'Here?' someone said. 'But why here? There's no work in Woodend for a young man. All the young people leave the village. They find work in Lidney, the nearest town.' 'I'll get a job somewhere,' the stranger said. 'Perhaps in Lidney.' Then one of the villagers told him about old Mr Smiths house. Mr Smith had died in the summer. His house was empty. It was for sale. The house was on the corner of Main Street and Church Lane. 'I'll ask about the house tomorrow,' said the young man 'Perhaps I'll be lucky. Goodbye. I'll see you soon.' The villagers watched him leave. They all saw his car. It was very big and luxurious. He looked rich. A few days later, Mr Smith's house was sold. And in the middle of December, the young stranger arrived. He moved into the house and worked very hard. He fixed the roof. He repaired broken windows. He painted and decorated. He changed the whole house. But there was a big surprise for the villagers. On the morning of Monday, 21st December, they saw a big sign or the front of the house. And on the sign were these words: THE CORNER SHOP Proprietor: Dave Slatin english-e-books.net CHAPTER TWO The Village Meeting The villagers could not believe it. A shop in Woodend! Everybody talked about it. There was once a shop in Woodend, but it had closed twenty years ago. Some people wanted the shop, but others did not. The villagers met in the evening in the village hall. Everybody was there. Everybody was interested in the new shop. 'The Corner Shop is a good idea.' someone said. 'We need a village shop. We won't need to go to Lidney.' Then Mrs Harrison spoke. She liked the stranger, Dave Slatin. 'I agree,' she said. 'A village shop is a good idea. It's too quiet here. Woodend needs a shop.' 'Nonsense,' said Miss Brown. She was the village schoolteacher. 'Lidney is not far away. There are lots of shops there.' Soon everybody was shouting. Then Mr Hart spoke. He was a very big man, with a loud voice. 'Listen, everybody!' he shouted. 'We've never had trouble in this village before. We've always been quiet and happy. Now this shop is causing trouble.' 'Let Mr Slatin speak,' someone said. 'It's his shop. Let him speak.' 'Ladies and gentlemen,' said Dave Slatin. 'I don't want to cause any trouble. I'm still a stranger in your village. But I want to be one of you. I want to be your friend. I like the people of Woodend!' He smiled and a few people clapped. They liked him. 'The Corner Shop will sell lots of things,' he went on. 'It will sell food and things for the house. Everything will be cheap, I promise!' Everybody was listening carefully. 'And I have another idea,' he continued. 'I'll sell village products. 'What do you mean by "Village products"?' asked Miss Brown. ' said Dave. Everyone in the village was happy with Dave Slatin's plan. 'And Mrs Davies makes dolls. 'How will you pay us?' 'That's a good question.net 'I'll tell you. Yes.' said Dave. You'll bring your things to me and I'll sell them for you.' said old Miss Lucy Gray.' 'What a good idea!' said Miss Brown.' someone said. She started work in late January. In the summer. Miss Brown. I've seen your flowers. 'You can all do something. You make lots of things. 'And I do paintings of the village. . 'And Mr Everett makes pots. english-e-books. I'll keep some of the profit. We can sell them to the tourists. 'Yes. 1965. Soon the shop was busy and Dave needed an assistant. The Corner Shop opened on Monday. You villagers are clever. 'And you. she did make bread and cakes.' he said. You grow beautiful flowers.' Miss Brown smiled. his flowers were beautiful.' said another voice. 'I know that you make beautiful bread and cakes. I agree!' said Mr Hart. The new assistant in The Corner Shop was Anna. Mr Hart. 'Yes. 4th January. Everyone knew about them. All the villagers agreed. Yes.' Now Mr Hart smiled. 'And here's the answer. Woodend can make a lot of money!' 'But what about the money?' said Mr Hart. Everyone knew that. You'll have the rest. One led into the stockroom. Anna never went into the Special Orders room. english-e-books. Dave lived alone. Dave advertised in newspapers and the village products sold well. . 'How does he do it?' asked Mrs Harrison.' 'But you won't get any big orders in Woodend. They were making a lot of money. in a flat above the shop. but pleased. He did not want to talk about that room. Peter. but no one ever went to his flat.' The other villagers agreed. Dave?' Anna asked one day. He was very popular in the village. The villagers were surprised. Dave said nothing. Sometimes her friend. I never go to Lidney now. He paid Anna good wages. but he's selling lots of fruit and vegetables.' said Anna. People from Lidney came to The Corner Shop. 'Its winter.' he replied. 'Big orders.net CHAPTER THREE The Corner Shop Dave Slatin kept his promises. And they're cheap. 'Why do you lock that room. The other door had a notice on it: SPECIAL ORDERS ONLY: KEEP OUT The door was always locked. The Corner Shop was a success and Dave seemed happy. At the bottom of the stairs there were two doors. 'What's in there?' 'It's for special orders. There were lots of visitors and Woodend became more interesting. helped at the shop and Dave gave him money too. No one ever saw inside it. Things at the shop were good and cheap. ' Anna ran to the bottom of the stairs and called 'Dave! Dave! There's someone to see you!' 'Who is it?' asked Dave from upstairs.' Anna was amazed.. one day in April.' said Anna. Miss Gordon..' The woman smiled. 'I'm pleased to meet you.' said the woman.net CHAPTER FOUR A Beautiful Customer For three months. I think so. She was wearing expensive clothes and arrived in a large car. Then. and he came down immediately. 'I think he's upstairs. Tell him. 'Yes. 'I'll tell Mr Slatin that you're here. She looked round and seemed a little surprised. This is The Comer Shop. Does he know your name?' 'Yes. but she was nervous. 'Miss Greta Gordon!' shouted Anna.' said Anna. 'Wait a minute.' The woman stopped.' was the reply. The new customer was a very beautiful woman. english-e-books. an unusual customer came into the shop. . 'Are you Greta Gordon. 'It's Greta Gordon! The film star!' 'I'm coming!' he said. Tell him Miss Gordon is here. It's the only shop in the village. that's right.' he said. the film star?' 'Yes. Miss Greta Gordon. the owner of the shop.' replied Anna. 'I'll go and get him. 'Is this The Corner Shop?' the woman asked. everything was normal.' 'I'm looking for Mr Slatin. But she had to stay in the shop.' said Greta Gordon. thanks. 'Please tell no one about my visit here. english-e-books. 'Shall I get the doctor?' said Anna. Dave went straight upstairs and Greta Gordon came to the front of the shop. Anna watched them. Miss Gordon looked round. Anna loved films. 'What's wrong?' asked Anna.' said Greta Gordon. Dave and Greta Gordon did not know each other. He seemed to be in a hurry.' said Greta Gordon.net 'Good morning. Greta Gordon was a Special Order customer! Anna thought that was very strange. she seemed nervous.' Anna was disappointed. Mr Slatin?' she asked.' said Dave. He did not call her 'Greta'. 'Yes. 'It's a small place. I'll sign it. Her eyes were red with tears. She wanted to tell everyone about Greta Gordon. Please tell no one. and she seemed to be frightened. The film star looked terrible! She was pale. and she did not call him 'Dave'. Dave and Greta Gordon went to the back of the shop and into the Special Orders room. Miss Gordon?' 'No. 'Can I help you. Miss Gordon. She wanted to tell everyone about her famous customer.' She signed the photograph and gave it to Anna. 'I want to give you something. She wanted to tell Peter about the film star. She was crying. . but it's big enough for me. I'm all right. 'No! No!' said Greta. 'Do you want to sit down?' said Anna. She got a chair and the film star sat down. She had beautiful hands and she was wearing beautiful diamond rings! Anna had never seen so many diamonds before. Ten minutes later. She wanted to tell someone about Greta Gordon. Greta Gordon came out of the Special Orders room. 'Is this where you work. 'Here's a photograph of me. Please follow me. Once again. She and Dave shook hands.' Anna was surprised. thought Anna. The diamond rings were gone. She held Anna's hands.' said Greta. english-e-books.' 'All right. .' The film star kissed Anna.' said Anna. What a beautiful woman. 'I promise. Please don't tell anyone. And what beautiful hands! Then Anna noticed something. 'And please keep our secret.net 'Please keep this. 'She was a Special Order customer. Peter asked Anna to marry him. There was a picture of Greta Gordon! Anna was pleased . Dave. and Anna often went to the cinema in Lidney. She did not ask about Greta Gordon's Special Order and she did not ask about the rings. She did not tell anyone. Anna wanted to tell Peter about Greta.' she said. Anna was reading the film news. But she did show Film News to Dave Slatin. Now they needed money. so they worked hard and they saved. Peter played football or cricket. They were very much in love.' Dave replied. There were lots of tourists that year. One day. Anna and Dave were busy. Don't ask any more questions about her. 'How do you know Greta Gordon?' said Anna. They became engaged. 'Is she a friend of yours?' 'I don't want to talk about her. 'Look. but she kept her promise. Anna. One day. 'Here's a story about Greta Gordon' Isn't it great! She's got the big part in Beautiful Woman. In May. Mr Hart brought lots of flowers to The Corner Shop and Anna sold them to the tourists. He enjoyed sports and she loved watching films. She never told anyone about the film star.' So Anna did not ask any more questions. She turned the pages. He never talked about her visit to The Corner Shop. Soon it was spring.net CHAPTER FIVE A Page in 'Film News' Dave never talked about Greta Gordon.What a surprise! Beautiful Woman was going to be a big film. They planned to get married in the following year. . She said yes. english-e-books.' Dave looked at the magazine. And now Greta Gordon had the star part. On Saturdays. This was the magazine about film stars. Anna asked him about the film star. Anna kept her promise. 'I was in my bedroom. I can't believe it.' Greta told us yesterday. 'I've always wanted the part. In the daytime. I slipped and fell. 'We won't go far! I'll close the shop at lunchtime and we can go to Lidney. In the evening. But Miss Leigh has broken her arm. Dave was older. she is! She's terrific!' Dave did not seem interested. The weather was beautiful and the shop was doing well. But Anna was very close to him all day. Then one Friday. she was with Peter. CHAPTER SIX A Quick Kiss Summer tourists were arriving in Woodend.' Anna wanted to go with Dave. 'I don't know what happened. Anna loved Peter and she was going to marry him. Why had she come to see Dave? What had happened to the diamond rings on her fingers? There was another problem.' said Dave.' 'I'm sorry. Anna was living two lives. but she was worried about Peter. But Anna was not very happy. 'Would you like to spend the day with me? We can go anywhere you like. But she liked Dave too. Dave surprised Anna. Dave.' said Anna. All the women liked him.net Greta Gordon will star in "Beautiful Woman" The star of Beautiful Woman was Joanna Leigh. 'Big star? Yes. She often thought about Greta Gordon's visit. 'But Peter wouldn't like it!' 'Don't be silly. One life was with Dave. We can go in my car. 'I'm so lucky. Anna was with Dave.' 'I don't know anything about films.' was all he said. the other life with Peter.' he said. but she liked him.' said Miss Leigh. 'I hope she's happy with her big part. english-e-books. 'Is Greta Gordon a big star?' Anna laughed.' Greta Gordon will now be the star of Beautiful Woman. . 'What are you doing tomorrow?' he asked her. 'All right. Dave stopped his car near The Corner Shop. Then they went to a cinema and.' 'Of course!' laughed Dave. Then I'll come with you. Peter played cricket that Saturday.' she said. But for Anna.' 'I enjoyed it too. The night was warm.' said Dave. expensive dress. to a restaurant. 'You take me to the best cinema and to the best restaurant. Thanks. Dave and Anna were also very late. it was wonderful. He was playing in another village and returned to Woodend very late. He never knew about Anna's day with Dave.' Anna thought for a moment. 'It was a lovely day.' said Anna. Anna!' So the next afternoon Dave and Anna went together to Lidney. 'Anything you want. afterwards. english-e-books. It was a quick kiss. Dave bought Anna a new.' said Dave. .net 'Don't worry about Peter. He put his arm round her shoulders and kissed her. 'He's always busy on Saturday. Dave. They had a good time. He invited Peter and Anna. Anna did not like football. 'Hello. and he was about the same age. Dave was quite rich. . Peter did not buy her clothes and never took her anywhere. There was a young man outside. 'We are open tomorrow morning. Dave bought Anna clothes.' 'I'm very sorry Mr Slatin. I've been waiting for you.' said Anna. 'Can I help you?' 'I hope so.' 'But I've got an appointment.' 'I'm afraid that the shop is closed now.' said Dave. 'You're late. said the young man. Peter played football every Saturday. At five o'clock. He was her boss. Two minutes later.' she said. 'I want to see Mr Slatin. the day before the match. Then Dave spoke behind Anna. 'But can you see me now?' he asked.net CHAPTER SEVEN Another Special Order The summer passed. 'Yes. 'I was. there was a big football match on television. Never mind' said Dave rudely. Anna earned a lot of money. The Corner Shop was always busy. His rudeness surprised Anna. but Peter had no money. Now it was September.. Everyone thought that she was happy. Dave opened the shop on Sundays too. She liked Dave. He was carrying a small case. she locked the shop door. english-e-books. Sometimes. the bell rang and Anna went to the door. But Peter was her fiance.' said the young man. But life was difficult for her.. She had not seen him. One Saturday. On Friday. Mr Hart had the biggest television in the village and he invited some people to his house. He was more interested in football.' 'Never mind. The young man seemed afraid.' said the young man. Anna was working in the shop all day. and he was older than her. and he took her out. 'You've forgotten something. She wanted to know about the young man. 'What do you mean?' asked Dave. 'Excuse me. 'Yes. The young man's face was white.' The young man turned round. 'Don't worry. english-e-books.' he said.' Anna heard the shop door close. It was white with fear. She came round the corner and saw the young man. Leave me alone. He was walking quickly to his car. You can go home now. The young man was leaving the shop. but she could hear him. there was a noise. Anna noticed immediately that he was not carrying his case.' said Anna. 'Is this the only way?' said the young man. Anna could not see him. 'Anna.' 'I won't be long.net 'Yes. The young man followed Dave to the back of the shop and into the Special Orders room. I want to go home. Anna stood in the street and watched him.' Dave turned to Anna.' He got into his car and drove off.' said Dave. 'Please go away.' she said. Goodbye. Why had the young man come to The Corner Shop? What was his Special Order? And why had he left his small case with Dave Slatin? . Then she went round the corner. But soon it was half past five. it is. Anna stopped. He was speaking to Dave. 'Leave me alone. But Anna wanted to stay. Anna put her coat on and left the shop.' said the young man. it's after five o'clock. 'Are you sure?' said the young man. Soon. and waited. She followed him. She was thinking. Everything will be all right. 'Hurry up and go home. You have left something behind. She closed the door very loudly. 'Come in. Dave was angry. Suddenly she was frightened. Another Special Order! Another Special Customer! Anna waited.' said Dave. english-e-books.net . Mike! Let's have another goal!' In the last seconds of the match.' said Peter. 'I'm helping Mrs Hart. 'What's happened?' said Anna. 'It's a terrific match. There were only five minutes of the match left. the goalkeeper. 'Come on!' shouted Peter. It was his third goal of the match. Mike Bailey scored another goal after twenty minutes.' she said. 'It's really good. Mr Hart had invited about ten people.' It was serious. But something was wrong! The other team's goalkeeper was injured. thanks. The score was 2-0. Look.net CHAPTER EIGHT The Football Match The next day was the day of the big football match. . Mike Bailey scored the winner. 'No. Mrs Hart and Anna came in from the kitchen. Anna did not watch the game. The ball had hit the goalkeeper's neck. english-e-books. Then the other side scored two quick goals. At half-time. 'What's wrong?' 'It's Brian Thomas. here's the tea. Bailey had been very near the goalkeeper and he had kicked the ball very hard.' said Peter. Can you take it in to the others?' 'OK. 'He's injured. Come on!' Anna laughed. Mike Bailey scored a great goal. 'Why don't you come and watch the match. Anna?' he said. The second half was very exciting. The goalkeeper had broken his neck. 'Come on. It was a good game and everyone was enjoying it.' Peter took the tea into the sitting room and the second half of the match started. They were making tea. Peter went into the kitchen. It was 2-2. She was helping Mrs Hart in the kitchen. net Later. The injured goalkeeper would never play football again.' said the interviewer. at The Corner Shop. but he could not. Anna was frightened too. The interviewer tried another question. Mike Bailey and Anna had met before. Mike. Mr Hart turned off the TV No one noticed that Anna had left the room. He could not speak. english-e-books. The TV announcer said. He looked very ill. 'Let me ask you about the third goal. The TV showed a picture of Mike Bailey and the interviewer. The day before. they all watched the news on TV. . They saw the ball hit the goalkeeper. It was an accident. 'three goals in one match! How do you feel about that?' But Mike Bailey said nothing. 'And now over to our sports studio for an interview with Mike Bailey. It was a great goal. Mike Bailey said nothing.' They all watched the interview. Mike Bailey had looked frightened. It was a great goal. But how do you feel about the injury to Brian Thomas?' It was a silly question. 'Mike. It was terrible. When the interview ended. He tried to speak. They saw pictures of Mike Bailey's third goal. 'I don't know. She was only seventeen. 'What about weekends?' Dave asked. One day. She decided to wait.' said Anna.' A weekend in London! Anna had only been to London once. Dave laughed. She wanted to ask Dave about Mike Bailey and Greta Gordon. 'I don't know. Anna felt afraid.' she said.net CHAPTER NINE A Secret Weekend Anna did not know what to do.' 'When are you getting married?' asked Dave. Anna was excited. Dave and Anna were alone in the shop. He plays football then. 'We haven't decided yet.' said Anna. He looked into her eyes. 'I don't see him much at weekends. but sometimes she felt much older. Perhaps next year.' Dave smiled at Anna. 'We can go to London. 'I must think of Peter. Anna. Anna replied quickly.' said Anna. aren't you?' said Dave. She wanted to know about Special Orders. 'That's true. but she was also afraid. 'Is he still playing football?' 'Of course he is. for a day.' 'That's a long time. 'Yes.' 'Why don't you come away with me for a weekend. do you. english-e-books.' she replied. 'How's Peter?' asked Dave. Dave smiled. She also felt excited. She did not know why. thanks.' . 'You don't see him very much. Anna?' 'I see him three or four times a week.' said Anna.' said Dave. 'Sometimes you're bored. 'He's fine. ' 'One question! Only one!' shouted Dave.' said Dave.no.' 'Very clever. english-e-books. That's all!' Anna did not understand. Come with me and we'll go to the best shops. 'What sort of help?' she asked. Will you come with me?' Anna said nothing. she had an idea. And Anna went with him. forget him.. Quickly. Tell me. 'One question . He spoke quietly. And I give . 'He'll never know. She and Dave had made an agreement. 'One question!' shouted Dave. 'That's great!' 'But first. 'I want to ask you something.you can ask me one question.' said Anna. Why do people come to see you?' Dave thought about his answer. 'You're a village girl. 'But don't shout. I sell help to them. but you're very clever. 'Now tell me about your Special Orders. 'They need help.' he said.' Dave was angry. Dave had answered it. 'I've answered your question. We'll go to the best cinema.' said Anna. Dave had invited Anna to London for the weekend. Suddenly. Then I'll come to London with you.net 'Oh. 'All right!' said Anna.' she said.' said Dave. 'They come for help.' Anna said no more. Anna asked: 'Why do people come to you? Why.' he said.. . Anna!' 'Village girls aren't stupid. 'Perhaps I'll come with you.' 'What do you want to know?' he said quietly. 'I want to know about your Special Orders. She looked at Dave. 'Good!' said Dave. Anna had asked her question. ' Anna's face was red. Her voice was quiet. it's nothing!' she said. Don't talk about it. 'Hello!' said Anna. 'You didn't play? Why not? What was wrong?' 'I didn't feel very well on Saturday morning. It was not so busy now.' 'What do you mean . I was in the village all weekend.net CHAPTER TEN A Quarrel Anna enjoyed the weekend. 'Oh. On Saturday they went shopping and in the evening they went to a cinema.me and Dave Slatin?' said Anna quickly. 'I don't want to know. 'And you know why. 'You know what's wrong. And I didn't play. 'We didn't win. 'Oh. Anna.' said Peter. Most of the customers were villagers.' Anna was surprised. On Sunday they went to a park. 'Are you feeling better now?' she asked. 'No. 'Me?' she said. They arrived in London late on Friday evening and stayed at a big hotel. I stayed in Woodend. . On Monday evening.' said Peter. It's you and Dave Slatin. Someone saw you in Dave's car. english-e-books.' Anna tried to look surprised. Summer was over...' 'But Peter!' said Anna.' said Peter. 'Dave and I went. Anna went to the shop. 'Did you win on Saturday?' 'No. On Monday. It was the last Sunday in September. 'You went away with him on Friday evening.' 'Shut up!' said Peter. Anna. They came back to Woodend on Sunday evening.' Anna tried to explain. It was a cold autumn. Peter came to see Anna. There's something very strange about him. english-e-books. 'You talk about him all the time. Peter. 'I know he's got a lot of money. She was very unhappy. He can take you to places. But listen.net Peter did not listen. .' 'Dave! Dave! Dave!' Peter shouted. I'm a poor village boy. He's from a big city. I want to tell you about Dave. He left Anna's house. You can't have both of us. She wanted to tell him about Greta Gordon and about Mike Bailey. Anna! But you must choose. You must choose between Dave and me. Now Anna was alone. She wanted to tell him about Dave. But Peter had left her.' Peter turned round and walked out of the room.' 'I know that. Peter!' said Anna. She wanted to talk to Peter. I don't want to hear his name again. 'And I don't want both of you. 'Good morning. She was a different girl.I.' he said politely. She did not go out much. It had the letters A. He was well dressed and he was carrying a large briefcase. Then she said. She was very unhappy.S. I've come from London and I must see Mr Slatin.R. I am a salesman. But no one was able to help Anna.' She looked at the man's case. A middle-aged gentleman came in. 'Can I help you?' Anna was very polite too. printed on it. sir. She went to the shop every day. Anna was not very busy at the shop.' said Anna. 'Yes.' said the man very politely. It was the middle of the month. She knew that he was not a salesman. Anna knew that the man was lying. She was waiting for another Special Customer. But she wanted to talk to the man. 'Thank you. 'but I have a private appointment. Anna did not wait long. I usually speak to the salesmen. She seemed older. 'I'm looking for Mr David Slatin. He did not look like a salesman. 'Good morning.net CHAPTER ELEVEN Arthur Riseman It was October. The man smiled. They also knew that she had been to London with Dave. It was cold and wet. That was not true.' said the man. smiling girl. She looked ill. Anna was alone in the shop. she had been a happy. 'Are you a salesman?' she asked. english-e-books. Now she was sad and lonely. He was a big man with a very large moustache.' . Most of the villagers knew that Anna had quarrelled with Peter. Before. 'Perhaps I can help you. She did not talk to anyone. miss. Anna smiled.' he said.C. It was almost lunchtime. sir. She was interested in this man. not Roberts! What a liar! The man did not look at Anna.' Dave went upstairs and Mr Riseman came into the front of the shop. Mr Riseman. Dave came out. Mr Riseman. 'I'm pleased to meet you!' Anna listened. 'I'm pleased to meet you. They went into the Special Orders room. 'Thank you. She waited. Goodbye. Mr Riseman. Riseman! The man's name was Riseman. Anna wrote down the letters A. 'Arthur Roberts.R.R.' said Dave.' said Anna. 'I decided to have lunch in the shop today. She understood 'A.' said Dave. 'He wants to speak to you.' At half past one Anna heard noises.' .' Anna went to the back of the shop. Anna he said. Mr Riseman followed Dave.' said Anna. 'And thank you.' said Dave. 'I thought you had gone home.' the man said. 'I'm going in a few moments.' said Dave.S. Mr Slatin.' he said.C.' said Dave. 'Good morning.' 'Thanks. He came to the front of the shop. 'He's very busy at the moment. What's your name.' said Anna. Dave was talking.' 'Thanks.' . Dave was coming down the stairs.' Dave went back to the Special Orders room.' said Mr Riseman. 'Oh!' said Mr Riseman. Anna was sitting quietly in a corner. 'You have helped me a lot. 'Goodbye. But she did not understand 'I.' she said. 'You can go home now.'Arthur Riseman'.' 'No. And he went to the front of the shop. 'Please come with me. Dave. My assistant isn't in the shop.I. Anna did not leave the shop. A minute later. 'Roberts. english-e-books. But I'll tell him you're here. please?' The man smiled. but you can open the door. 'It's lunchtime.net 'I'm sorry.C. Mr Riseman was leaving. 'There's a man in the shop.' 'Good.S. 'Would you like to buy some bread. Then she said. Mr Riseman?' 'It looks delicious.' 'All right. Anna watched Mr Riseman leave. Her hands were still hurting five minutes later. Mr Roberts?' she said.' 'I think you've forgotten it. 'I haven't got a briefcase.' said the man. He held her wrists. 'Please. 'I'm so sorry. let me go. 'Listen to me. Anna spoke first. 'I'll go and get it for you. He had not taken his bread with him. my name is Riseman. My wife will love it. please. Leave it there.' said Anna. 'I don't want that briefcase.' said Mr Riseman. 'You can put it in your briefcase. . You're hurting me!' Mr Riseman let go of Anna and turned towards the door. He was very strong.' said Anna.' he said. Mr Riseman stepped in front of her.' she said. I'll take some. english-e-books. She put the bread in a bag.' Anna moved towards the back of the shop.' 'Here you are. 'Riseman. Anna smiled.' 'My briefcase?' said Mr Riseman. They did not like each other. 'Would you like to buy some home- made bread. 'Yes. He left the shop hurriedly. He was very polite again.' she said.net Anna and Mr Riseman looked at each other. There was silence. I'm buying some things for my wedding.'. Anna took a bus to Lidney and then caught a train to London.S.S. She took the note to the shop. I'm going to Lidney. She saw nothing. She decided to go to London and find Arthur Riseman. But she did not find anything about 'I. She understood 'A. Later. .net CHAPTER TWELVE Anna Waits for News Anna waited for some news about Mr Riseman. and they had all left something with Dave. The telephones were near to the entrance to the station but the boxes were all full. Greta Gordon had left her diamond rings.S. His case had the letters A. there was news about her in a magazine.R. All three visitors had been Special Customers. She got to Paddington Station at midday. And now Mr Riseman had visited The Corner Shop.R.' it said.C. It was a Friday.' was his company? Anna looked in the newspapers.C. on it. there was a lot of news about him on TV. Mr Riseman had left his briefcase.' The note did not tell the truth. They had all been in the Special Orders room. 'Sorry I can't come in today. english-e-books. The film star had visited The Corner Shop. Early in the morning.S. Later. Anna wanted to find out more about the three 'Special Customers". Mike Bailey had visited The Corner Shop too. Anna was waiting for some news about him. 'Dear Dave. but Anna did not care. She got off the train and looked for a telephone box.S.C. She thought about Mr Riseman. But there was nothing about 'I. Mike Bailey had left his case. Anna. They had all seen Dave.C.'? Perhaps Mr Riseman was a businessman and 'I. She remembered Greta Gordon.C. She listened to the radio.I. Then she had an idea. She watched TV. she left a note for Dave.' But what was 'I. Anna heard nothing.' She read the magazines. ' said Anna. 'I'll call again next week. Then Anna saw the letters 'I. 'I'm afraid he can't speak to you now. 'Mr Riseman doesn't know my name. Perhaps that was Mr Riseman's company. International Computer Services! I.' The woman laughed. She went to see a film. I think he works at I. I'll get his secretary. he does!' she said.C. english-e-books. Anna rang the number 222 8959. 'I'd like to speak to Mr Riseman. Mr Arthur Riseman.net She stood and waited. But she had not spoken to him. please. Can I help you?' 'Yes. Her train left London at half past six.' said the secretary. 'Is Mr Riseman expecting your call?' the secretary asked. 'I.C. . 'Mr Riseman's secretary.' Then there was another woman's voice on the phone. Then she had tea in a small cafe near Paddington Station. 'No.S. 'I want to speak to Mr Riseman. Can I help you?' said a woman's voice.S. thanks. please?' said the secretary.S.' said Anna.' There they were! They were on a huge advertisement.' said Anna. 'That's impossible. She bought an evening newspaper. Wait one moment.S. Soon one of the phone boxes was empty. 'Works here? Yes.' And she put the phone down.C. 'Yes.C.' she said. Anna had found the answer to her problem. please. 'He's at a meeting now and he's flying to Switzerland in an hour's time.' said Anna. he will. Anna spent the afternoon in London. 'Goodbye.' 'Who's calling. please.' 'But I must speak to him for a few minutes. and got on the train.' said Anna. Will Mr Riseman be back then?' 'Yes. he isn't. 'But I can take a message.' Anna replied. Anna had found Mr Riseman's company. The secretary became annoyed. 'He's the Vice Chairman of the company.' replied the secretary.' 'No. english-e-books. Six Dead: All from ICS. The plane was flying to Switzerland. Mr. Anna was waiting for some news. There it was. told us. 'I'm lucky to be alive. Alfred Gluck.' Mr. The meeting went on for a long time and I didn't catch the plane. Arthur Riseman. After a few minutes. near London. I was at a meeting today. Vice Chairman of ICS. . Among them was Mr.net Anna was tired. The passengers were all from International Computer Services (ICS). she looked at her newspaper. on the front page: PRIVATE PLANE CRASH NEAR LONDON Six Dead: All from ICS Private plane crash near London. Riseman will probably be the new Chairman of ICS. but she felt happy. the Chairman of ICS. Six people were killed this afternoon in a plane crash at Enfield. english-e-books. She found some old magazines and newspapers. She had never seen so much money before. Anna turned on the light. It was a small room. He did not ask about her day off. German. Anna opened the door and went into the room. At eleven o'clock. Lots of money. Anna was alone. Anna was amazed. She looked round the room. Underneath. and Anna did not tell him about it. French money. There was a small table. there were some dirty. What were they? What was Dave Slatin doing in that room? On Saturday morning she went to the shop. no papers. He was angry because Anna had not worked on Friday. old clothes. Special Orders? There were no order books. She turned on the radio and listened to the news. American. This was her chance! She went to the back of the shop and turned the handle of the locked door. Dave left the shop. But the Special Orders room was not locked! Dave had forgotten to lock it. was dead and Mr Riseman was the new Chairman. It was difficult because there were a lot of boxes on the floor. But underneath the clothes she discovered some money. She was thinking about Dave Slatin and the Special Orders.S. Anna walked round the table. Dave said nothing to her. The Chairman of I. That was all. but it was not a very strong light. no pencils. He got in his car and drove off. Anna opened one of the boxes and looked inside. Anna did not sleep that night. British money. There was money from all over the world. dark and hot.net CHAPTER THIRTEEN The Special Orders Room Anna got home about ten o'clock. two old chairs and a lot of boxes.C. . Then Anna looked into a bigger box. She found a small model aeroplane. Anna put it on the table. And there was the football book with the torn pictures. Anna put the book on the table. Anna looked into the box again and found some little cars. That was empty too. Then Anna found a book about football. Inside there were some pictures of footballers but the pictures were all torn. It was broken too. the model aeroplane. What were they for? Why did Dave Slatin keep them in this locked room? Suddenly Anna jumped. Someone was standing at the door. the toy cars.net She looked round again and found Mike Bailey's case. Inside it were some dolls with broken arms and legs. Then she found Arthur Riseman's briefcase. but it had a broken arm. There was a noise behind her. One of the dolls was very beautiful. english-e-books. It was empty. Anna put all these things on the table. . Anna looked at the things on the table. What a strange collection! There was the money. Most of them were broken. the broken doll. ' he said. Dave Slatin picked up the beautiful doll with the broken arm. 'Why? Why did Greta Gordon give you those diamonds? And all this money.' 'But how do you help them?' asked Anna. 'My Special Customers gave me the money. 'I help them and they pay me.' said Dave. 'I left the door open for you.' 'They belong to me.' laughed Dave. It's mine now. english-e-books. not all of them. . He was laughing. 'Do you remember Joanna Leigh?' he asked Anna.' Dave said again. He came into the room and picked up an old box. Who gave you the money?' 'My Special Customers!' said Dave. 'I wanted you to go into this room this morning!' Anna was frightened. He took out the rings and threw them on the table.' said Anna. 'They belong to Greta Gordon.' 'But why?' asked Anna. 'Yes. Were they in this room too? 'Here. Anna remembered Greta Gordon's diamond rings. but she tried not to show her fear.' said Dave 'You have seen some of my Special Customers. It was Dave Slatin. 'You haven't found the diamonds.' 'But why do they come?' Anna asked again. 'She gave them to me.' 'Mike Bailey and Mr Riseman gave you all this money?' asked Anna.net CHAPTER FOURTEEN The Special Customers 'What about the diamond rings?' said a voice.' replied Dave Slatin. 'These people come to me for help. 'They aren't yours. I can give you everything you want. Anna. 'This doll is Joanna Leigh. you will give me children. He picked up the broken aeroplane. Let me go.' Anna was terrified now. Marry me.net Anna thought for a moment.' he said quietly. 'I have strange powers. Dave Slatin laughed and held Anna more tightly. 'I want you.' she cried. Anna tried to move away. Anna remembered the face. And you. Anna was terribly frightened now. 'Who's that. 'I will give you money and diamonds.' Anna felt more afraid. Dave Slatin moved close to Anna. . I need you.' said Dave Slatin. 'Let me go. She ran all the way home. of course I remember her. english-e-books.' said Dave Slatin. She had seen it on TV. Greta Gordon got her part. you still don't understand.' she replied. 'He's a goalkeeper.' 'No. Dave Slatin took Anna's arm and held it tightly.' 'He was a goalkeeper. Marry me. 'Brian Thomas. Dave Slatin was an evil man. Anna?' he asked. She ran out of the Special Orders room through the front of the shop and out onto the street. 'Joanna Leigh?' she said. no. 'And what do you think this is?' he asked Anna.' said Dave Slatin. She kicked Dave Slatin very hard and he let go of her hand. but she was too afraid to speak.' 'But Anna. Don't marry Peter. Anna moved quickly. She's the actress who broke her arm. What kind of man was Dave Slatin? Dave Slatin pointed to a torn photograph in the football book. 'Yes.' 'That's right.' He looked into Anna's eyes. Anna. 'Listen.' he continued. 'And my children will have these powers too. Anna knew the answer. Anna. People were running and shouting.' But Dave did not move. 'Jump! Save yourself. 'Jump. There was a big fire on the corner. The doctor came immediately.' said the doctor to Anna's mother. Peter came to Anna's house. The shop was in flames. He went to the window and looked outside. Peter came to see her. 'Dave must be inside. He tried to speak to Anna. 'Anna's very ill. Again Anna did not sleep all night. . 31st October. I don't know what's wrong with her. Nobody could see Dave Slatin. In the evening. He was standing at the window and he was laughing. but the others pulled him back. Flames were leaping up from the shop.' Then the villagers saw him. Dave.' That afternoon. was a terrible day for Woodend. she felt terrible and went to bed. Mr Hart tried to run into the shop. But Anna was ill in bed.net CHAPTER FIFTEEN 31st October When Anna got home.' they shouted. 'I'm worried. She had a fever and her mother phoned the doctor. He sat quietly beside her bed. 'I'll come and see Anna tomorrow. Sunday. At about seven o'clock. Some of the women in the street started screaming. but she was too ill. Anna stayed in bed. 'His car's here!' said Mr Hart. Peter heard shouting in the street. I'll come back again tonight. english-e-books.' Peter told Anna's mother. The next day. Fire! Fire! Fire! There's a fire at The Corner Shop!' Peter ran out of Anna's house and into the street. He was standing at an upstairs window. No one was able to save him and no one ever saw him again. They ran upstairs to Anna's room.net/ to find more fascinating and exciting stories! . . The villagers saw that he was still laughing. The flames hid him completely. Peter went back to Anna's house. Anna was dead. talking to Anna's mother.THE END - Hope you have enjoyed the reading! Come back to http://english-e-books.net The flames reached Dave Slatin. That was the last time they saw him. Suddenly there was a scream. The doctor was in the kitchen. english-e-books.