Shape of Snakes

Letter from Danny's mother, Maureen Slater, dated 1999

32 Graham Road

Richmond

2 August

Dear Mrs. Ranelagh,

The reason I'm agreeing to see you is because Danny likes you and you did a kind thing for Alan all those years ago when you caught him thieving off of you. He's a fine man now-married with kiddies-and I think you'll be glad you gave him a second chance. Also I appreciated you visiting me in hospital that time. I know I told you I'd fallen down the stairs, but I think you guessed it was Derek who gave me the injuries.

You say a lot's changed since 1978 and that's true. There's hardly anybody left who remembers Annie. I still don't think she was murdered, but like you say there's probably no harm talking about it now. Derek walked out on me twenty years ago and I haven't seen him since.

Around midday next Monday will be fine.

Yours,

Maureen Slater