2.5: A strange letter in the ’paper

The next morning, back at the Potting Shed and over the usual breakfast of coffee, juice, toast and marmalade, Alcock is flicking through the local newspaper, which he does out of habit, despite his dislike of its editorial stance.

Perhaps because of his visit the previous day, his eye is drawn to a strange letter on the letters page.

Sir,

At the forthcoming elections, your readers may wish to consider the character and reputation of the Barman of the Swan Hotel as expressed in the poem that a lot of people are saying.

The Barman has an upstairs room

That no one sees inside.

It’s rumoured there he keeps his wife

Who committed suicide. 

Is this a fit person to run such an establishment? There’s no smoke without fire!

Yours faithfully

Herbert, an honest reader.