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THE MYSTERY OF THE MISSING RING.

Suspects:

Isabella Foster (daughter)
Diana Conway (neighbour)
Claire Wilkins (neighbour)
Rodney King (gardener)

Nothing exciting ever happened on Valley Avenue. It was a quiet, residential neighbourhood. The police hadn't needed to visit the street for as long as anyone could remember. Seventy-three year old Pearl Wiseman frequently said that she couldn't imagine a more peaceful place to live. This was all about to change. One sunny morning, residents of Valley Avenue were surprised to hear Michelle Foster screaming at her fourteen- year old daughter Isabella.

"I'm telling you for the last time, NO, you may not wear my diamond ring to your school dance! It's far too valuable!"

Michelle was normally a calm, diplomatic housewife and mother and it was a shock for her neighbours to hear her raise her voice. However, they couldn't help but sympathise with her nevertheless.

"I remember when our Jennifer wanted to wear my gold bracelet at her school dance" Pearl said to her husband Frank. "I know just how Michelle feels. When they can't even clean up after themselves, how can they possibly be trusted with expensive jewellery?"

After an angry retort to her mother, Isabella stormed out of the house and made her way to school, her backpack slung over one shoulder. Claire Wilkins from across the street watched Isabella leave and decided she'd head over to the Fosters' home and see how Michelle was doing. She arrived to find Michelle speaking to Rodney King, the neighbourhood gardener.

"I'm so glad you're here, the back lawn's in need of a good mowing" Michelle said gratefully to Rodney. "I know it's hot out there, I'm sorry that you have to do it today."

"No problem" Rodney said easily. "It's the fifth lawn I've had to mow this week. I'll get started on it." He paused to say a quick hello to Claire and then made his way through the house towards the back door.

Michelle then turned to Claire. "What a lovely surprise!" she exclaimed. "We haven't had a good chat for ages."

"I know and I thought it was time to rectify that!" laughed Claire. She hesitated and then asked "Did I hear you arguing with your daughter this morning?"

Michelle's face clouded a little. "Yes, but she's gone off to school now, so hopefully she'll calm down by the time she gets home." She turned away and opened the fridge. "It's awfully hot out there, can I get you something cold to drink?"

Claire decided not to press the issue if Michelle didn't want to talk about it. "Some juice would

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