Amelia Hardy and the Case of the Scarlet Tipped Sardines

7/29/2019 Amelia Hardy and the Case of the Scarlet Tipped Sardines

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Amelia HardyIn

A Novel By Mahlia Pope


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LULU PUBLISHING

First published in the UK in 2012 by Lulu publishing

ID 13097332

Text Mahlia Pope 2012

The right of Mahlia Pope to be identified as the author of

this work has been asserted by her in accordance with

the Copyright, Designs and Parents act, 1988.

Printed in Great Britain

Lulu.com


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For Dad, Mum, Jacob and all

my other encouraging family, who

have always been there to help me solve themystery of who I am.


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Amelia screwed up her face in disgust as she reached

into the laundry basket and pulled out a pair of socks

that produced a ghastly stench, seeming to choke hernose and mouth until she hurled them across the

room. Her mother had been distraught after Amelia

had wound up at the police station last week, (she had

been framed to look like a thief by a mob of men trying

to break into the local bank) and so had compelled her

to temporarily avoid detective work and get a properjob. When Amelia had refused, her mother had found

her a job in The Marylin Hotel as a cleaner.A cleaner

she thought, outraged.Amelia Hardy, the worlds

number one school-girl investigator working in a hotel.

She hauled the bin bag out of the bin only to find that

the black plastic had a huge gash running all the way

down it. The rubbish came surging out of the gap, a

tsunami of revolting, rotten food and old packaging

spreading out all across the kitchen floor. A banana

skin slid onto her navy blue all stars and she grimaced

as she flung it into the air. She stamped her foot and

yelled in frustration, kicking a broken comb and

watching it skid across the cold marble floor and

clatter against a nearby wall.

Why is it always ME? she shouted angrily. She had

no idea who she was talking to, or if anyone could hear

her; but she continued to yell at thin air until she had


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calmed down. She took several deep breaths before

getting down on her knees and chucking the rubbish

into another bag, handful at a time. Through grittedteeth, she spooned the litter back into the bin bag until

there was hardly anything left. Just as she thought that

the task was nearly done, and relief entered her body,

she slit her thumb on something sharp and a trickle of

blood oozed out and rolled down her finger. The feeling

of slight happiness evaporated and she was, onceagain, irritated. She looked at the object that had

wounded her, only to find it was your average tin can.

Of sardines, if you were wondering. A strip of the red

background and scarlet scaled creature was missing,

and there was now a smidge of deep red liquid staining

the aluminium. She lobbed it into the bag immediately,

her thumb in her mouth, the metallic taste tingling

unpleasantly on her tongue. At that moment, her

mobile began to bleep in the wide pocket of her ugly

blue apron. She fumbled about and then looked at who

was calling her. It was Harvey. She sighed before lifting

it to her ear.

Hey Harvey she said, half-heartedly.

Amelia! Hi! I think I found us a case, and this one

looks like its- he began in a flurry, but Amelia

instantly cut him off.


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Whoa, Harvey, stop right there. You know that Im

working full time now! she groaned.

I know, I know but couldnt you just No. You know Ill only get another three months of

working in this stupid hotel if my mum catches me

she looked for the right word detecting. She

mumbled.

What if you dontget caught? he hinted hopefully.

Ameliastared at the floor that was now blotted with grease

and food

from the rubbish. Her brain hummed as she thought,

chewing her lip. She hesitated and then lifted the

phone to her ear again.

Fine. Ill be over in ten minutes. She grumbled,

though it set off a spark that grew into a flame as she

swiftly removed her rubber gloves and dumped them

under the sink. She paused, wondering if she had time

to quickly clean up a bit. Nah she thought, Im sure

whoeveris staying here can clean up themselves. She

grinned and accidentally kicked over a vase before

grabbing her rucksack and sweeping out, closing the

door on the horrific mess.

Harvey hung up on Amelia, an excited smile tugging at

the corners of his lips. He too had been banned from


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casework, and although he didnt have to scrub clean a

hotel, he missed it just as much as Amelia did. He

wondered if he should call Ben. He knew that Ameliahated getting her nine-year-old cousin into trouble,

and he usually ended up kidnapped or almost killed.

He grimaced. On the other hand, he was sometimes

the one that got them out of the sticky situations, and

it was easier to look for clues with three people than

two He dialled Bens home number, and Mrs Adamsanswered instantly.

Hello? she asked cautiously.

Oh Hi, Mrs Adams, its Harvey, I was wondering if-

I told you Harvey you are a bad influence and I want

you

to stay away from Benjamin she interrupted

arrogantly,

before hanging up and leaving a rather annoyed

Harvey to listen to the long beep that followed. He

sighed. Okay, so no Ben. He thought miserably. Does

nobody understand that were trying to save the world

here?There was a rap on the front door and Harvey

leapt up before his mother could answer and politely

turn Amelia away. He pelted down the stairs and then

realised that his mother was out, so they would be fine

for now. The door opened to reveal Amelia and to

Harveys surprise Ben, too.


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Ben? What are you doing here? he asked

suspiciously.

Well, Harvey, when your big cousin is the worldsmost famous person for lying and sneaking around,

you learn a lot. He smiled mischievously. Amelia was,

for the first time in weeks, wearing a grin and she

stepped inside without being asked, and raised her

eyebrow as she turned to Harvey.

Well? This had better be good, if my manager comesup to check up on me, then Im fired, and my mum will

find out and shell she started. Harvey placed his

forefinger on her lips, and she was instantly quiet.

Theres been a murder was all he needed to say to

vaporise any doubts Amelia had. Her deep brown eyes

lit up, and her smile spread further across her face.

Any leads? she pleaded. Harvey rolled his eyes.

Youre not supposed to be pleased about it! I was the

first

one up there. I found some weird stuff on the body,

and the

police literally begged me to show it to you they miss

you by the way. He grinned. Amelia scrambled up the

stairs and whistled as she saw the state of Harveys

room. There were folders and paper sprawled out all

across the floor and the desk.


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Hasnt your mum questioned all this? Amelia

gestured around the room. Harvey shrugged.

I told her it was for a massive English project.Yeah, a reallymassive English project replied Amelia.

They pulled the body out of the sea. Harvey said,

trying to read Amelias wistful expression.

She pondered each folder that contained a different

case that had been solved long after Amelia and the

gang could have solved it.The blue one at the end added Harvey and Amelia

hovered over the folder that contained the possible

case. She opened it up and tried to memorise each

item that Harvey had found on the body: A penknife, a

soggy box of matches, five coins no, five fake coins,

and a strip of some sort of label. Suddenly, Amelias

heart skipped a beat. She slowly picked up the strip of

paper and turned it over. It was the label from a tin of

sardines. Sardines with scarlet tipped scales.

She reeled over and gasped for breath. Harvey shot

her a questioning look as he steadied her.

What is it? he asked, bemused.

The strip of paper. It came from the very same tin of

sardines that I cut myself on back at the hotel! She

exclaimed with breathless excitement.

What? Are you sure? gasped Harvey.


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Yeah, Im positive. It had the same shape of label

missing. She replied. Then she sprang to her feet.

I have to go back! she cried, and bolted out of thedoor; sprinting all the way back to the hotel; where she

arrived, weary and panting, at the reception desk.

Amelia? enquired the receptionist. Her glasses were

perched on the end of her nose, and though she looked

about thirty, she was keen to do her job with dignity

and firmness.Please, Mrs Bainbridge, I need the keys to room

room 234 she panted.

Why is that? she questioned.

No time to explain, its an emergency! she replied

hurriedly.

Very well began Mrs Bainbridge, handing the keys

over. but I shall have to she sighed as Amelia

grabbed the key and dashed up four flights of stairs.

She practically fell through the door, her face now

painted crimson. Still breathing as heavily as ever, she

stumbled to the kitchen and bumped straight into the

manager. She was emptying the bin, and Amelia

rushed over and jerked her hand away. When she

recognised Amelias face her eyes filled with rage.

Excuse me, Miss Hardy, but can I just ask you what

you

think youre doing abandoning your duties and


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I know, and I am so sorry, but have you noticed a tin

of

sardines in that bin bag? she cut in, staring franticallyat the bag of litter.

Pardon me? said the manager.

A tin of sardines, sardines with scarlet scales? she

repeated impatiently. The manager continued to stare

at her. Amelia stamped her foot in frustration and

snatched the bin bag clean out of her hands. Much tothe managers disgust, she began to rummage around

in the bag, looking for just a tiny hint of scarlet. She

found none. Dented in hope and doing her best not to

sink to her knees in disappointment, she slowly lifted

her head up to face the fuming manager.

I am truly repulsed at your behaviour towards your

duties, and especially towards me. I have no choice

but to withdraw your job here at the Marylin Hotel. We

do not tolerate this kind of activity from staff. She

sniffed. Amelia was truly delighted that she had

repulsed her manager, but knew that her mother

would be instantly informed, and she would be

instantly in deep, deep trouble.

Fine. Thank you for giving me a chance. She said

politely, before stalking out and taking the lift back

down.


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The manager exited room 234 with a horrified

expression on her face. The resident of room 234

noticed as he openedthe door.

What is the matter? he asked lightly.

I just had to fire one of my staff, although I think she

was crazy. She was rummaging around in the bins for

goodness sake, looking for some sardines tin or

something. She replied. The man was suddenlyinterested.A tin of sardines, is she indeed? He

thought.

Who was the cleaner? he asked casually.

Why Amelia Hardy, of course.

Once she was back at Harveys Amelia took the piece

of paper and studied it. It was one hundred percent

exactlythe same chunk that had been torn off the

paper. She turned it over, and willed herself not to get

too excited. There was a scrawl of writing on the

reverse side of the paper, but it was barely legible, and

she struggled to make out even a few letters. Ben

quietly handed over her old magnifying glass and she

studied each letter carefully, occasionally making a

breakthrough and writing down a single letter. Finally

she had worked out each letter and they spelled out to


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make the word Arabella. Harvey read her loopy

handwriting and frowned.

Arabella he said slowly. Ring any bells?Nope replied Amelia and Ben in chorus. A huge crash

outside the window caused them all to freeze and look

at

one another.

HELP! screamed someone.

They jumped, two steps at a time down the stairs andyanked open the door, to reveal nothing but a woman

screaming and pointing at nothing.

Whats the matter, whats wrong? yelled Amelia.

Harvey

shot her a look.

Excuse me, Madame, but would you mind explaining

what happened? cooed Harvey, and Amelia rolled her

eyes and scowled.

There was a man, he stopped outside the door,

and and he had a letter for you she gasped. But

three men got out of a car and knocked him down

and and they chucked him in the boot of the car and

drove off! she broke down in hysterical sobs and as

Harvey soothed her, Amelia became trapped in her

own bemused bubble of thoughts.A tin of sardines

plus a drowned man plus five counterfeit coins plus

Arabella plus a letter for me plus a kidnapping equals


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one huge, annoying puzzle where the pieces dont fit

together! She was about to punch something when she

realised that Ben was watching her and she shot hergo-away-Im-thinking look at him. He smiled slightly

but then turned to help Harvey comfort the old woman.

Just then, her phone rang again, and she answered it

curiously.

Hello?

Amelia, is that you? answered a voice. Amelia knewthat

shed heard this voice somewhere before but she

couldnt

quite put her finger on it.

This is Paul Roberts, head of police added the voice

when

there was no reply.

Oh right, yeah, hello she mumbled, embarrassed.

Hi, I was just calling to give you an update on the

case of the drowned man.

Uh huh

The body has been identified, his name was Herbert

Dawes

and he was a sailor from the merchant ship, the

Arabella. He explained. Amelias heart raced and her

throat suddenly went dry.

Arabella? Did you say Arabella? she breathed.


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Yes Amelia? Is something wrong?

No, um thanks for the news. She managed to choke.

As she hung up, she let a little squeal of triumphescape her lips, and she grinned as she turned back to

Harvey and Ben. She fastened the straps on her

rucksack.

To the docks! she grinned. In that moment, Harvey

smiled, knowing that the old Amelia was back in

business, and she was not going to give up what sheloved doing best without a fight.

They strolled along the docks until they came to the

huge ship that was painted with the scruffy name

Arabella. They were scheduled to question the

captains mate at 2 Oclock sharp, and it was quarter

to, so they had time to relax a little while. Amelia stuck

her freezing hands in her pockets and looked up at the

pale blue sky, watching each seagull that soared above

their

MOVE! She yelled suddenly and shoved Harvey and

Ben

just as a crate full of metal plummeted to the ground

and shattered into hundreds of wooden splinters by

their feet. Ben stared at the mess, trembling, with a

terrified look on his face. Amelia squeezed his

shoulder, breathing heavily, her eyes also wide in


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shock. Harvey willed his heart to stop hammering so

hard, but it was pretty much impossible after almost

being crushed to death.We must be on to something. Panted Amelia, Why

else would someone try to kill us?

A crowd had begun to form around them, asking if they

were okay, but Amelia impatiently reassured them it

was an accident and that they were extremely lucky to

be intact. Though they had been lucky to havehappened to be watching the seagulls, Amelia knew

that this was no accident, and that this case was

already beginning to get interesting

At 2 Oclock precisely, they boarded the Arabella,

loaded with notepads and pens. They were just about

to enter the designated cabin when Amelia hesitated,

sure that this was her chance to see what was really

going on.

I think Im gonna go and take a look around the boat

she said, and Harvey got the message instantly.

Okay, meet you back here in half an hour he replied.

Amelia nodded and then sauntered off in the opposite

direction. What they should have been paying

attention to was the conversation that the mate, who

was named Eric, and another sailor were having.


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You take care of her, while I talk to the other two

hissed Eric. The sailor nodded and smiled nastily.

Amelia passed a door that read STAFF ONLY. She

noticed that it was slightly ajar, and it took every effort

to take a few paces the other way, but she gave in to

temptation and turned back, pushing the door open to

reveal a storage room full of crates. She cautiously

tiptoed down the stairs, keeping an eye out for anyonewatching as she came close to the crates. She made a

snap decision and lifted the lid of the one closest to

her. She gasped as rows and rows of canned sardines

met her eyes. Then she composed herself. Dont be

ridiculous she thought. Its just cans of sardines, what

could possibly be suspicious about that? She faltered,

and then slowly picked up a can, beginning to examine

it but she never finished. Because that was when a

shadow blocked out the light; she turned just in time

for someone to thump her on the head, and she was

deep in unconsciousness before she could even

register the tin of sardines skittering out of her hand

and coming to rest at the sailors feet.

Harvey glanced at the clock behind the mates head.

Ben threw him a bored look and Harvey repressed a

grin at his lack of interest, though he too had found the


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interrogation rather dull and uneventful, but more than

anything, extremely disappointing. He had let Amelia

down and she was sure to be disappointed that thiswas nothing more than an accident. He knew it was

time to wrap up.

So its as simple as that. The man was drunk and fell

into the water on his way back to the ship. He sighed.

Yes, plain as pikestaff agreed Eric.

Well thank you for your time, sir. Added Harveypolitely, before tucking his chair in and exiting the

cabin, followed by Ben.

That was the worst interview ever he retorted, but

Harvey wasnt listening. He was frowning at his watch,

trying to decide whether it was twenty minutes fast or

something was holding Amelia back He shuddered,

just as the sailor approached him.

Oh, your friend told me to tell you that she had to

make a hasty exit, she couldnt wait for you. He

informed, and Ben shrugged and went to leave the

Arabella. But Harvey was not so sure.

Did she say what it was? he probed.

No

Thats odd. She always says where shes going, and

she neverleaves us behind. He said, ignoring the little

part of his brain that screamed STOP! He knew that

what he was saying wasnt entirely true Amelia had a


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habit of getting excited and rushing off without them,

but Harvey never

minded. Well, apart from the times where she wouldrun

right into the heart of danger, and Harvey wouldnt be

there to save her.

Well shes gone without you he snapped.

She musthave told you where she was going to meet

uscontinued Harvey, and the sailors irritation was clearly

visible.

No. She didnt. Youre going to leave now he

breathed, his tongue laced with threat.

Not before Ive phoned her just to check he dared,

sliding his mobile out of his pocket.

That wont be necessary said the sailor quickly,

making an attempt to snatch Harveys phone clean out

of his hands, and failing. Harvey dialled Amelias

number, and raised the phone to his ear. Ring, ring.

The sailor began to panic. What would the mate do?

Ring, ring. He slowly reached his hand into his pocket

and it closed over a bottle of chloroform. Ring, ring. He

reached into his other pocket and found a pack of

tissues. He repressed a smirk, looking up to return

Harveys challenging stare. If he only knew what hes

getting himself into.Thought the sailor. Ring, ring.


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Quick as a flash, he whipped the bottle out and almost

poured the whole contents onto a tissue. Harvey

worked out his plan a split second too late, and hisphone clattered to the deck as the sailor covered his

nose and mouth with the tissue. Ring, ring. Ben

gasped, unsure of what to do, how to react. Harvey

struggled as he gagged on the sickly sweet and oh-so-

familiar odour that was dragging him

into blackness. Ring, ring. Harvey knew that there wasno way

out, so resulted to throwing hand gestures at Ben.

Go! Run! screamed Harvey, but the sound was

muffled and there were ants rapidly eating away at his

vision.

Ring, ring. He threw his arms out, like a go away

gesture, and Ben nodded and bravely turned around.

Harvey stopped struggling and went limp, his eyes

rolling back into his head and then closing, his head

lolling down as the sailor hoisted him up onto his

shoulder, unsure of what to do with him. He never

noticed Ben slip into another cabin and bolt the door

shut, leaning against the door, panting, desperately

trying to decide whether to hide here and save Amelia

and Harvey, or run back home. He was about to unbolt

the door ready to sprint off the Arabella and call the

police, when he stopped. He chewed his lip, thinking.


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What would Amelia do? He thought. What if you were

the bravest, cleverest and best detective around, what

would you do? He smiled, instantly knowing theanswer. You make a plan is what you do. A very brave

and clever plan.

Amelia regained consciousness slowly, her eyes

fluttering open and staring around the windowless,

claustrophobic room and groaning when she noticedHarvey slumped next to her. She was going to tap him

on the shoulder when she noticed that her hands were

bound tightly behind her, growling when she noticed

that her whole body was bound to the metal pipes that

lined the metal room. Gangsters! She thought,

scowling. Were in the hold of the Arabella! She tried to

remember what she had done to deserve being held

captive this time, but could only recall almost opening

a tin of sardines, and getting a thump on the head.

She rubbed the lump that was beginning to form

underneath her chocolate brown curls, and her scowl

deepened. At that moment, Harvey woke with a start,

his head snapping upwards as he was dragged back

into reality. He squinted at Amelia, as if remembering

who she was and then groaned also.

You okay? Did they hit you too? she asked worriedly.

Nope, they chloroformed me. He replied grimly.


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Well this sure is fine mess she sighed. Wheres

Ben? she suddenly remembered.

Hes fine, he escaped when they got me. SaidHarvey quickly. Amelia breathed a quiet sigh of relief.

The door swung open and smashed against the wall

behind, startling them. The mate entered, staring

nastily at them, unsure of whether to explain to them

the trouble they were in.

Well, sir, are you intending to keep this little joke upfor long? Asked Amelia, with intentional and amusing

ignorance.

That all depends on you. He replied, shrugging.

Whats that supposed to mean? At least tell us why

you tied us up here in the hold! Demanded Amelia.

Its no use pretending he shrugged again you know

why

better than we do. With that he walked out and

slammed

the door, shaking the room slightly.

Hey! Get back here! she yelled, though they both

knew that it was no use shouting at a metal door.

Harvey smiled wistfully. It was like the old Amelia

never left. He listened to her try to find some way out

of the ropes, and she struggled but soon gave up.

There was silence a little while.


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Did you get fired? At the hotel? asked Harvey

suddenly.

Uh huh. Not only did I- she put on an accent -abandon my duties, I was caught rummaging around

in the bins. They both chuckled at the idea of the

famous school-girl-investigator going through the bins.

Suddenly there was a TOOTand Amelias throat closed

up, knowing that that whistle meant they were in

deeper trouble than they had ever imagined.Were sailing! she spluttered.

To an unknown destination added Harvey, his face

white and painted with an anxious frown as they felt

the whole boat lurch forward an inch, leaving behind

the home and family that they loved.

Weve got to find out whats going on around here.

Said Amelia determinedly. Ive got a feeling theres

something more than sardines on this ship.

Like what? wondered Harvey aloud.

I dont know. But were sure as heck gonna find out.

Ben took a deep breath and slowly, silently unbolted

the

lock on the cabin door. He opened it a crack and

peered

out, chewing his lip as he noticed the sailor strolling

the


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decks. Ben had had to make do with what he had

found in

his cabin. Just a cupboard of gone off food, a sailor capand a small knife. He pocketed the knife nervously,

and, trembling, grabbed a stale loaf of bread. Taking a

deep breath, he unbolted the door. The sailor shot him

a questioning look. Ben held up the loaf of bread. He

cleared his throat, making it go as gruff as it could.

The boss told me to take some food to theprisoners. The ones theyre keeping in the

The hold nodded the sailor, and Ben nodded back

before half running, half walking the other way. Thank

goodness Im rather tall for my age! He thought

breathlessly. Clutching the loaf of bread tightly; he

scurried down several flights of stairs, keeping his

story short and simple, and gradually making his way

down to the hold. Yes! He thought with a shiver of

exhilaration. Im finally proving Im a worthy sidekick!

He grinned to himself. Hang in there, Amelia and

Harvey, Im almost there.

Amelia flicked her fringe out of her face, now highly

irritated. Those rotten thugs had stolen her rucksack,

and now she sat helpless in the hold of their miserable

ship, and nothing had happened in over an hour. She

twiddled the fine ends of the rope that was frayed at


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the ends. Then she tilted her head to one side. Frayed

ends? She grasped a thin layer and with both hands,

pulled at it. She could feel it untwisting each strandthat made up the rope for about a centimetre. She

gritted her teeth and repressed a roar of frustration.

Just then the door creaked open, and she kept her

head down, just in case seeing the face of her

kidnappers would allow that roar to slip out of her

throat.Ben?! cried Harvey beside her, and her head

instantly snapped up. She blinked several times, but

sure enough, somehow, her younger cousin had made

it to the bottom of the ship. Part of her glowed with a

mixture of pride and relief, but the other part

screamed What is he doing here? He could have got

himself killed! She chose to settle halfway between the

two.

Ben! What are you doing here? she exclaimed.

Duh, saving you he replied, and drew out the knife in

his pocket. Amelia gasped. Ben marched over to

Harvey and easily slit the ropes that bound him.

Harvey grinned, but he winced as he rubbed the red

marks where they had squeezed his hands together,

and soon they both were free. Then Amelia froze.

Quiet she hissed. There were footsteps coming from

outside, and growing louder by the second. Amelia


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shoved Ben behind a crate and yanked Harvey down to

where they both had been tied up. She silently tapped

her middle finger against her thumb and Harveynodded. It was their secret signal for just-copy-me-

and-let-me-do-the-talking. Amelia placed her hands

behind her back, and Harvey copied. They both

positioned themselves to make it look like they were

still attached to the pole. A narrow, stern looking sailor

entered, looking down upon them through cold eyes.I brought you some food. He grunted. Amelia smiled

sweetly.

How very nice of you, sir, but how are we to eat with

our hands tied behind our back? she asked, and

Harvey copied her pitiful expression, instantly

understanding what she was doing. The man cocked

his head to one side.

Fine, Ill loosen them a touch. But dont try anything

funny. He barked. He leaned down to loosen Amelias

ropes and soon noticed that there were none. He

realised that he was being fooled one second too late,

because that was when Amelias completely ropeless

arm swung up and struck him in the face. He was out

before he touched the ground. Amelia sprang up

cheerfully and gave Ben the nod. He slunk out and

Harvey and him helped Amelia drag the man and tie

him to the pole with the ropes that they had shed.


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Amelia slid his gun out of his pocket and took a

handkerchief out of the other. She fastened it around

his mouth.A work of art she sighed happily, and then all three

of them slipped out of one room and into the one

opposite, silently closing the door just as Eric entered

the one they were supposed to be being held captive

in. He roared in fury and then paused and laughed. He

strode over to the room that they were now in and puthis head as close to the door as he could.

Now then, little children, I know youre in there. He

said menacingly quiet. Amelia quietly bolted the door

and held her breath, holding Ben close to her.

By all means stay in there. But just a hint there isnt

any food or water, so you wont last long anyway. He

smiled, and then his footsteps died away as he left

them in the room. Amelia exhaled, and Harvey

squeezed her shoulder.

I bet hes bluffing. He said.

Youre right. Its worth checking every single one of

these crates. She agreed, and they split off. Amelia

lifted the lid of a near crate and gasped in surprise.

Another crate packed with sardines!

Hey you guys, I think were okay for food! she

laughed. Her twinkly laugh bounced off the walls and

Harvey opened up his crate. He grinned.


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Yup, better get used to sardines, guys!

Same here added Ben, though with much less

enthusiasm; he wrinkled up his nose as the thought ofslippery sardines sliding down his throat lingered in his

mind. They made their way to the back of the room,

opening crate after crate of sardines. Amelia chewed

her lip apprehensively once they had finished the

only liquid they had found was a crate of champagne

right at the back, but she and Harvey didnt spoil Bensmoment of triumph. They sat on top of a crate and

Amelia grabbed a can

of sardines. She peeled off the top and then stopped

dead. Her heart thudded as she stared at the contents

of the tin. And it certainly wasnt sardines.

Opium! she choked. Harvey and Ben gasped in

chorus. So weve managed to get ourselves mixed up

with drug-runners. She said, sitting back and staring

into space in shock.

Not only that, but they were right. We havent got

anything to eat added Ben quietly. As if on queue, the

mate returned, and obviously had gone to fetch some

help. Amelia listened grimly to the sounds of their

mocking laughter. She turned to Harvey and Ben.

We gotta get out of here, and fast. She concluded.

They nodded, yet neither of them dared to speak the

question burning on their minds how?


32/88

Night soon fell, and the ocean reflected the star

studded cloak that engulfed the sky. Amelia and thegang had spent all day revising and preparing for the

escape that would kick off at precisely midnight.

Hunger clawed at their stomachs, and thirst lingered in

their throats. Amelia suggested that they try and get

some sleep until then, but it was only Ben who was

able to even close his eyes, let alone drift into apeaceful sleep. Soon, the time came for Amelia to

glance at her watch for the one hundredth time and

take a deep breath. She prodded Ben, and he rolled

over, mumbling. Amelia gritted her teeth and shook

him. He did not stir. She leaned in close to his ear and

talked at

a normal volume.

Ben, wake up she lowered her voice its time. He

instantly opened hid eyes and gave her a fearful nod.

Ready? she asked, and Harvey and Ben nodded. She

quietly pulled out the contraption they had created

earlier, and gave them a grin that was so obviously

hinted with excitement. She took one last look at the

two planks from the crates, tied together with a piece

of rope they had found and cut with Bens knife. The

rope criss-crossed across the boards, and then after

several knots, looped down leaving several meters


33/88

more dangling. Amelia tiptoed over to a cabin window

and pushed it open. The roar of the ocean and blast of

the salty odour woke her up, and she was determinedand ready to get out of her prison. She leaned out of

the window and, holding the end of the rope, swung it

round and round and then hurled it upwards. It flew

straight through the air and then sliced through the

open window above them. She pumped her fists into

the air as she pulled on the rope so that it wasdefinitely secure. Then she climbed back down from

the window and helped Ben clamber out of the window

until he gripped the rope, his eyes squeezed shut,

refusing to move.

Shift! she hissed. Ben remained suspended over the

mass

of swirling black water. Move, Ben! Just dont look

down, youll be fine! When have I ever let you fall?

she urged, knowing that she was wasting precious

time, and every

second counted. Finally, inch by inch, Ben hauled

himself up

the rope until he scrambled noisily through the open

window. Amelia waited impatiently an then exhaled

when she saw the rope drop and then dangle down

from above. She tugged at it once more, then saluted

Harvey and dragged herself all the way up, sliding in


34/88

with grace and then landing on her feet but not taking

in her surroundings until she could see Harvey also

making his way up. Then she looked up and instantlyfound herself peering around the Captains cabin. Only

there was no captain. She frowned, and that was when

Harvey popped out of the window. So far so good, she

thought, though they were far from finished. Ben

backed away from the sound of the mighty waves and

Amelias eyes widened in horror as he knocked over anempty glass bottle. As if in slow motion, it fell to the

floor and shattered deafeningly into thousands of tiny

little pieces. She shot him a furious look and then her

faced creased in fear as running footsteps approached.

She yanked Harvey and Ben into the locker

underneath the bunk bed, leaving it open just a crack

and held her breath. One sailor and the mate burst

through the door.

I could have sworn I heard something he barked.

Then he clearly noticed the open window. Lucky the

planks of wood had fallen into the sea. She tried to

climb up the window.

He shouted. But she couldnt have, its too high.

She might try again, sir. Hinted the sailor. Eric

paused.

Lets blow the door down before she can try. He

yelled.


35/88

You stay here he ordered the sailor. if anyone

comes, you

know what to do. With that he stormed out of theroom. In the darkness, Amelia looked pleadingly at

Harvey and he rolled his eyes. She grinned. One, two

THREE! She leapt out of the bunk and punched the

sailor right in the face. He staggered back, and landed

neatly in a chair, where Amelia bound and gagged him.

She whistled for Harvey and Ben to get out.Be careful she snapped. Ben sheepishly looked

down. So much for worthy companion he thought

miserably.

Eric stomped down the corridors, his arms loaded with

explosives. He dumped them right outside the door to

Amelias room and lit the fuse, sprinting away and

blocking his ears. Take that, Miss Hardy.

Amelia felt the boom rattle the boat, and as it came

from underneath them, she knew they had minutes

before the mate realised that she was a whole floor

above him. He would alert the whole boat and theyd

all be after her. She kicked the door open and they

dashed through the corridors, not meeting one sailor.

She assumed that they were all down one level, ready


36/88

to pounce on Amelia. She had laid a trap to buy them a

little extra time.

Eric literally pulled the bent door off of its hinges and

reeled back when someone shot at him from the

darkness.

He sneaked his hand around the frame and began

shooting

back, furious that Amelia dared to try and shoot athim. Then he noticed that what was being shot was not

bullets but

Champagne corks! he roared, and turned back the

other direction. He flung open the door of the captains

cabin, and his rage turned from red to purple when he

saw the sailor bound and gagged, struggling violently

in the chair. Another young sailor entered, panting.

Mister Mate sir, one of the lifeboats has vanished! he

cried. If it was humanly possible for one to explode,

that is indeed exactly what Eric did in that precise

moment.

Amelia pulled on the oars and watched as they

disturbed the waters and pulled them into swirling

patterns. She had refused to let either of the boys row

before her, and it was difficult to say no to Amelia

when she was coated in a layer of victory. Ben sighed


37/88

blissfully beside her in his sleep, and Harveys light

snoring faltered and then returned to normal. None of

them had any clue where they were, so they justrowed the opposite way the Arabella was headed for.

It had been twenty five minutes since their escape and

her arms were already beginning to tire. Ten more

minutes. She told herself, and then you can wake

Harvey and swap. But each heave of the oars brought

her closer to drifting off to sleep. The gentle lap of theocean against the sides of the boat, the swish of the

waters as the oar sliced through them, Harveys

continuous heavy breathing

Amelia jumped awake with a start, frowning at the

blanket that had been placed over the top of her. She

stretched and gave Harvey a sleepy smile as she

watched him row the boat. Ben remained in a deep

sleep, and she sat up and tucked a piece of hair out of

his face.

Any sign of land yet? she sighed.

Not a peep. We must be hundreds of miles away from

the coast. Replied Harvey anxiously. Amelia we

might not make it.

Dont say that! Of course we will.

You know that all we have is the bread, and one

bottle of water we found in the cupboard. He pleaded.


38/88

Well be fine. Though the reality of the situation filled

her mind with doubt. She was just opening her mouth

to add further encouragement, when her ears prickedup. Harvey paused too, hearing the sound that was

growing louder. It sounded like an engine. That was

when the yellow seaplane shot out of the clouds.

Amelia laughed in astonishment and immediately

threw her hands up into the air, waving frantically.

Were saved! cried Harvey, waking Ben up. He slowlysat up and his eyes widened in excitement when he

came to realise what was going on. All three of them

stood upright in the boat and shouted. Then Amelia

stopped. Something was not right, the plane seemed

to be circling them as if getting a better aim That

was when the shower of bullets pummelled the little

boat, and it began to fill up with freezing cold sea

water.

Amelias first instant reaction was to get out her stolen

gun. She aimed at the propellers on the front of the

craft and shot three times. The first two missed, but

the final bullet struck and paralysed the engine quicker

than lightning. The plane swerved and landed on the

surface of the waves, its built in rafts resting on top of

the sea. The two pilots climbed out, shaking their fists

and cursing. Amelia swore as the water gushed up to


39/88

her knees. She would deal with the plane in a minute,

but right now, they had bigger problems.

Jump! was all she said. One two THREE! Theydived all at once and planted three large splashes into

the blood-chilling water. Amelia made a desperate last

effort to turn the boat upside down, but it was too late

and it sank slowly to the bottom of the ocean. She

turned back to the others.

Theres only one thing left to do. Harvey instantlyknew what she was thinking.

No way. He replied.

Yes way. Theyre both on the same side, it will be

easy! she begged.

Dont even think about Amelia swiftly and

unexpectedly dived down and dodged Harveys

attempt to grab hold of

her ankle. He punched his fist on the water, flicking

Ben in

the face. That crazy girl is going to get herself hurt! He

thought angrily.

Amelia closed her eyes and let the salty water gush

past her face, kicking as hard as she could, and trying

to ignore the burning sensation in her throat. She

opened her eyes once more, and saw the blurry

surface of the greenish water rippling above her. She


40/88

silently surfaced and sipped in gulps of air, keeping her

head down as she spied the two pilots meters away.

She gripped the rubbery raft of the opposite side of thecraft as she pulled out her gun, determined and ready.

Then she plunged back into the water once more and

swam gently around the side of the seaplane. Then,

she burst out of the water, taking the pilots by

complete surprise as she fixed her gun on their

bemused faces.Hands up. She ordered, and they obeyed.

Harvey rolled his eyes and began to swim towards the

seaplane. Ben followed, relieved and proud of his

cousin. He was still beaming as they reached the craft,

but he hid his smile as they watched Amelia climb

evenly aboard; her gun still poised in the air, and

ordered the pilots inside. There were four leather

seats, two at the front and two behind, leaving a space

at the other end of the plane. It was here that Amelia

tied the pilots up with a broken seatbelt and sat down

at the front of the plane.

Youre not going to fly it are you? asked Harvey.

No, Im going to dance on it. She retorted back.

What do you suppose I do?

Duh, make one of the pilots fly it. Pointed out

Harvey. Amelia rolled her eyes.


41/88

I really dont fancy being flown back to the Arabella,

do you? she snorted. Harvey racked his brains

desperately.You could just ride it along the waves? he suggested.

Yeah and get back to England at half past never! she

snapped impatiently. Ben went white.

Have you ever flown a plane before? he whispered.

Nope, but how hard can it be? she shrugged. Harvey

groaned, and fastened his seatbelt.

Amelia flicked a few buttons on the panel and the

propellers whirred into action.

See? Easy as pie. She said smugly.

Just because you know how to turn it on, doesnt

mean you can fly it growled Harvey. Amelia flicked

another switch, scowling.

Your lack of confidence in me is insulting she

mumbled. Then she grinned. Ready?

No replied Ben and Harvey at the same time.

Good. With that she clicked her knuckles and

grabbed hold of the joy stick, and pulled upwards.

Then they were tilted upwards and the plane slowly

climbed into the air.

Woo! she yelled, turning the plane around in the

direction that was supposedly England. Once the plane


42/88

had swivelled around, the excited atmosphere

vanished. Because there,

rolling rapidly from the horizon was a huge mass ofswirling

black clouds. A clap of thunder rumbled in the distance

and

Amelias face grew grave.

Please say that thats not the only way to England

breathedBen. Amelia looked at him grimly and nodded.

We cant go over it, we cant go under it she began.

Harvey knew that it was the only way to get back

home.

Well have to go through it he finished with her. Then

he squeezed her hand and fixed his eyes straight

ahead.

Right through it. She added. She took a deep breath,

and upped the speed of the craft. Ben felt sick already,

and huddled in the chair behind them, squeezing his

eyes shut. Then they shot, full speed towards the

nightmare storm.

Rain hammered every window in the craft, and Amelia

was motionless, her fingers gripping the rubber

controls, her eyes fixed straight ahead. Not even a hint

of dangerous excitement which she usually had when


43/88

she was performing an unsafe task like this. On the

other hand, this was not an unsafe task. It was a

terrifying voyage into the heart of hell, where everysecond of their lives depended on Amelias judgement

and skill. She calculated where the next fork of

lightning would strike, and the only time she ever

moved was to glance at the compass to check that

they were headed in the right direction. There was

silence among the crew. Ben rocked himself back andforth, holding his knees and willing himself not to be

sick. Harvey sat rigid in his chair, watching Amelia with

fearful eyes. A sudden fork of lightning missed them by

inches and in the second that Amelia took to compose

herself, another unexpected bolt cracked down and

struck the craft. The force and electricity rippled

through the controls, sending sparks flying everywhere

and volts of electricity shooting up the joystick and

right into Amelias hand. She shrieked and shook

violently, letting go of the controls and sending the

plane spinning through the air.

Amelia! yelled Harvey, as she slumped against the

controls, completely motionless. The plane hurtled

through the air, three different warning lights

screaming and flashing at them. Harvey grabbed hold

of her shoulders and shook her vigorously. She

remained limp, her eyes closed and unmoving, her


44/88

head lolling to the side and her mane of chocolate hair

falling into her face.

AMELIA! he shouted again. We need you! Weregoing to crash! he cried desperately. The plane

rotated upside-down and everyone aboard fell to one

side, knowing that this would surely be the end of all of

them. Amelias mind was practically separate from her

body, and she was trapped in unconsciousness,

screaming but helpless as the craft looped andtumbled down. She banged on the walls of her own

mind, willing herself to snap out of it. When she finally

found the exit back to consciousness, the plane was

plummeting down and Harvey was still yelling at her.

Her eyes rolled open and her head was reeling,

everything was spinning. She tried to focus

on Harvey, but it was just too much effort.

Thats it! Come on! Youre the only one who can do

this! he pushed. Maybe I should just close my eyes

she thought groggily.And then, from out of no-where,

Harvey resorted to last minute measures. He slapped

her across the face. Woosh! Everything snapped back

into perspective and Amelia jumped up and grabbed

hold of the gearstick.

Harvey! Pull the lever next you! she ordered, her

voice calm but edged with panic. Harvey instantly

reached over and pulled the lever. Amelia gripped the


45/88

controls and pulled as hard as she could manage

without breaking them. The plane was plummeting

towards the ground, Ben was hunched up in a ballwaiting for them to crash. But then, just as the plane

was going to hit the ground at a vertical angle,

Amelias efforts paid off, and it sloped slightly

upwards, twisting and skimming the ground. She knew

that they would crash, but there was still chance that

they might just be able to survive.Brace yourselves! yelled Amelia, then the plane

coiled around, buried itself in the sand and burst into

flames.

Bens small lungs were quickly smothered by the thick,

black smoke, and Amelia hauled him over her shoulder

as the flames began to lick at her feet. She gasped for

air, only to gulp in another mouthful of dirty fumes.

Harvey had barely been conscious as he crawled out of

the crackling craft, and now he lay sprawled across the

dazzling orange sand, closed eyes and completely

unaware that his best friend was being engulfed by the

roaring blaze. She staggered to the exit, exhausted

and her head clouded with the dense smoke. She

stepped back, braced herself and then leaped

unsteadily through the flames, stumbling out into a

place that most definitely was not England. As she fell


46/88

to the ground, a spray of sand spurted up and landed

on Harveys face. He sat up, his head jerking about,

making sure that they were all okay well, okaymeaning not dead, as Ben lay unconscious and Amelia

was on her knees, spluttering and gulping in the air.

Everyone got out then? he said, though was

surprised at how raspy his voice sounded. Amelia

nodded, and then her head snapped up. She looked

him right in the eye.The two pilots are still in there she whispered.

Harvey grimaced.

Sorry, theres nothing you can do for them now. He

replied regretfully. Then, in a heartbeat, Amelia had

stumbled up and was scuttling back towards the plane.

Amelia! Dont! yelled Harvey, but his heart sunk as

she disappeared into the roaring craze of fire he

knew there was no way of stopping her, so he hobbled

after her and his eyes instantly filled with tears, the

billowing smoke clawing at them. He closed his eyes

and followed the sound of Amelia choking desperately.

He reached her, and grabbed hold of an unconscious

(or dead, he wasnt sure) pilot, copying Amelia as she

towed him towards the exit. Her constant spluttering

became more and more violent, and at one point, she

sank to her knees, scrabbling at the edge of reality.

But she was determined, and resorted to lugging the


47/88

pilot on her knees. At last, they scrambled out and

collapsed onto the sand, gasping for breath. Within

seconds Amelia had finally slipped away, beingdragged into a world where everything was quiet and

peaceful how very imaginary this world was.

The sweat that poured down Amelias forehead awoke

her, the sun blazed overhead, its burning rays stifling

her. She looked to her left, Ben and Harvey seemed tobe still sleeping. She wobbled unsteadily to her feet,

and carefully scanned every direction, spotting nothing

but sand, sand, and more orange sand. Her throat

burned and ached for water, but she knew that there

would be nothing for miles. Her eyes briefly skimmed

across something that wasnt sand a little to her right.

Might as well investigate. She thought, and walked

towards the object. Each step left a hole in the sand,

and she was glad, as she could easily find her way

back if she wandered too far. She skidded down the

sand dunes, and the closer she got to the object, the

narrower her possibilities of what it was became and

the closer she came to coming to a conclusion, the

more she wished she was wrong. But, of course, she

wasnt, and when she was stood inches away from it,

her whole body turned to stone. It was a skeleton. Not


48/88

just a skeleton a camel. A camel must have died of

thirst here. She thought gravely. This

was not just not England, this was slap bang in themiddle of the Sahara Desert.

Amelia returned to where her companions were still

out of the picture and frowned. Something was not

right Then she noticed the trail of singed rope and

footsteps leading in the opposite direction and she feltlike kicking herself. The pilots! The ropes must have

been easy to break through when they were burnt! She

slumped down to the sand and let the sun smother her

with its blistering rays of light.

After several more agonising minutes of running the

scorching sand through her fingers, Amelia decided

that they would have to start moving. She would not

tell the others that she had no idea which way the

closest town would be, and about the camel skeleton

she had found. Trying to swallow her fear, she roused

them up and put on a brave face. They had no

possessions so they were soon on their way to

wherever Amelia said they were going. They stumbled

across the sand in silence. Bens feet already were

aching, and his throat was parched.


49/88

I hate sand. He growled, he could feel it moving

inside his shoes every time he took a step.

Well thank god were not in the middle of a Desert!snapped Amelia. Ben scowled. Harvey sighed. He

glanced sideways at Amelia. She quickly looked away,

avoiding his eye. Shes hiding

something.Thought Harvey, instantly suspicious.

So, Amelia, where did you say we were going? he

dared. I didnt she replied, shooting him a look thatsaid leave it! She said no more, and neither did

Harvey as he knew that he would talk to her when Ben

was sleeping. Amelia read his mind, and began to

prepare for how she would tell him that there was very

little chance they would return home.

What seemed like hours was only minutes in the world

of sand. Ben was not just falling behind but had a face

like thunder as he dragged his feet at every step.

Im so thirsty he moaned, his throat dry and his voice

hoarse. Amelia gritted her teeth impatiently. Another

minute or so went past. My throat is sore he

groaned. Amelia clenched her fists. Another few

minutes. Amelia, my head is killing me he whined.

Amelia stamped her foot and turned on him.

What do you suppose I do about it, huh? she

retorted. She would never have guessed that her


50/88

cousin really could go on no further his eyes rolled

back into his head and he collapsed just in time for

Amelia catch him uncertainly. Harvey knelt downbeside them and felt Bens pulse as Amelia rocked him

back and forth slightly.

Its really faint he whispered. Harvey stood up and

looked

around. There was nothing in sight, nothing but the

trail oftheir footprints and the wreck of the seaplane, a tiny

speck in the distance. He turned back to Amelia,

perhaps a little too fast as his head reeled and he

wobbled unsteadily. He knelt back down beside them.

Then he unexpectedly lifted Ben and placed him

carefully over his shoulder. He offered a hand to

Amelia, and she took it gratefully. They began to walk

on again. Another hour passed, this one dragged on

even longer and they made little progress. Their walk

turned to a hobble, which soon turned to an agonising

stagger across the blistering desert.

You dont know where were going do you? he asked,

with

surprising gentleness. Amelia at him, an apologetic,

scared look flickering in her eye. She neednt have

shook her head. Harvey carefully laid Ben down and

sat down. Amelia sat weakly next to him.


51/88

I didnt think it would end like this. She said

thoughtfully. Harvey pondered it.

No, me neither. I thought wed get blown up orsomething. Amelia smiled weakly, licking her cracked

and bloody lips. She was at the point where every

heartbeat ached and pounded in her head. She would

have cried, but she had no fluid left at all in her body.

Harvey put his arm kindly around her. She hugged

closer to him. Harveys faint musky scent filled hermind with safeness. Maybe the last smell I ever smell.

She looked into his eyes, the flame in hers still fighting

not to go out. The last pair of eyes I will ever see. A

sudden burst of something came from out of the blue

and took over her. If this really is the end She leaned

in and closed her eyes. Harveys heart ached to copy

her. What the hell, if this really was the last moment

they were together, then He brushed her fringe out

of her face, and then leaned in. His lips were

centimetres away from hers, and then Amelias whole

body went limp. Her hand fell into his lap, and as

Harvey too felt exhaustion and dehydration closing up

on him, he entwined his fingers around hers and lay

down in the sand; sighing blissfully as unconsciousness

washed over him like a cold wave of heavenly water.


52/88

Youre dead. Amelia told herself firmly. You died of

thirst in the Sahara Desert.Yet she felt normal, and

apart from the burning sensation in her throat, she feltgood and refreshed. She curiously opened her eyes,

and really didnt know what to think. She appeared to

be in some sort of canvas tent. It was simple, all that

was inside was a simple but perfect bed and a table by

the side of her. This is probably all a stupid dream.

Lying underneath the lamp was a small slip of paper.Good morning, Miss Hardy. Please come to my office

as soon as youre ready, Lieutenant. Amelia shook her

head, still unsure as to whether this was all a

hallucination. She sat up, wincing as her head

throbbed slightly and spun the room around. Gripping

the side posts of the bed for stability, she climbed out

and lifted the entrance to the tent. Heat blasted her in

the face but she exited her tent, taking in every detail

the rows of tents, a few guards dotted about. One of

the tanned men who clearly didnt speak much English

approached her.

I take you to Lieutenant he mumbled, and Amelia

nodded

and smiled at him. He lead through the tangle of tents

to

one, slightly larger one. The entrance was raised, and

Amelia gasped.


53/88

Harvey Ben! she cried and her two companions

jumped up, they were all soon pulled into a tight

embrace. Once they were seated, Amelia was aware ofthe tear that glistened in the mans eye, seated facing

them on the other side of the desk. He held out his

hand and Amelia shook it

warmly, smiling dazzlingly.

We waited for you before we began the

explanations. He said, reflecting her friendly smile.My name is Lieutenant Delecourt..

Amelia Hardy. she replied, and Lieutenant nodded,

already recognising her face. If you dont mind me

asking how on earth did we get here?

When my men and I spotted a wisp of smoke on the

horizon, we immediately went to investigate. We

followed your tracks and found you unconscious, so we

carried you here. He explained. Amelia nodded and

allowed the information to sink in. Lieutenant cocked

his head to one side, curiosity written all over his face.

He leaned in.

And if you dont mind me asking, but how on Earth

didyou get here? he asked. Amelia grinned.

Well, sir it is a rather long story. She replied, but

Lieutenants shift to get comfy in his chair told her that

he was


54/88

eager to hear it. She took a breath, and between her,

Harvey and Ben, they told of their amazing journey.

They spoke of kidnappings, escapes, plane crashesand near-death experiences. Lieutenant sat back in his

seat, laughing, holding his breath, his eyes always

wide open and his mouth slightly hanging. She finished

quietly, casually skipping the part where they all gave

up and waited to be eaten away by thirst. Lieutenant

smiled. He didnt notice Amelia and Harvey catch eachothers eye. Amelia looked away, her face blushing a

brilliant crimson. He continued. I recognised you three

as soon as I saw you, and I couldnt believe my eyes.

Amelia Hardy, Harvey Jones and Benjamin Adams from

London, all the way in the middle of the Sahara

Desert! he exclaimed. I immediately he began

again, but Amelia held up a finger, her ears listening

intently to the suddenly interesting radio broadcast.

The latest news today Yesterdays severe gales

caused a number of losses to shipping. Ships that sank

with everybody out in time included Jupiter and the

steam ship Tanganyika. An SOS was also picked up

from the merchant-ship the Arabella. The Benares

went at once to the aid of the Arabella and searched

all night, however no wreckage or survivors were

found. It must therefore be presumed that the Arabella

went down with all hands. Harvey gasped.


55/88

Thats odd, dont you think? frowned Amelia. She

turned to Lieutenant. Is there any chance we could

leave today? Imanxious to get to the coast as soon as possible.

Lieutenants smile faltered, disappointed at the

proposal of Amelia and her friends leaving.

So soon? He sighed. Yes, it can be done. I will send

two guards with you, so you are safe. Amelia jumped

up.Thank you so much. We wont forget the way you

have treated us. She said gratefully. Lieutenant

smiled weakly.

And I will never forget the time I met Amelia Hardy,

the

worlds most brilliant young investigator.

Amelia turned around on her camel, grinning and

giving Lieutenant a final wave. Then she rotated back

to keeping her eyes fixed on the tiny speck in the

distance that was Agadir, the Moroccan town that

would be the final clue she needed to solve the case

she hoped. The way the camels wobbled so made her

feel slightly sick, but she knew it would certainly be

quicker than walking. The five of them (Amelia,

Harvey, Ben their two guards) on their camels left the

untouched sand sprawled in piles with large dents in. I


56/88

hope that this journey goes quickthought Ben grimly,

or I think I might just be sick. How wrong he was

indeed, as their journey was about to take a long andmore importantly dangerous twist.

A guard burst through the entrance to Lieutenants

office, his hand clutching a crumpled piece of paper.

Sir, we received an urgent radio message for you! he

said,panting. Lieutenant frantically snatched the paper out

of his hands. The note read Twenty Arab raiders

proceeding to

Kefhier, stop dispatch patrol.Lieutenant gasped.

Kefhier?! Thats on the route that I sent Amelia and

her friends on! He sprang up and turned to his foreign

body guard. Ahmed, send for my section leaders at

once. The tall and well-built man nodded and scurried

off. Lieutenant fidgeted nervously until Ahmed came

back. He had brought along two other men.

Sir, you requested us. One said.

Yes, you and I are going to go and rescue Amelia

Hardy and her friends. We have sent them straight

towards a huge group of raiders. He said quickly. The

other man eyed him nervously.

Sir, youre not supposed to come with us on such

occasions. He said.


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Well, this time I am, and I want to hear no more of it.

He retorted back. We have to get to Kefhier

immediately!

Amelia was just getting used to the rise and fall of her

camel when the sound of many bullets hammered all

around her. Her heart attempted a summersault, and

she swiftly climbed off of her camel, grabbing Ben by

his shirt and diving behind the nearest sand dune.Harvey had done this so many times, he didnt need

help pulling out the gun that Lieutenant had issued

him and positioning it so that it poked on top of the

pile of sand they had taken cover in. Amelia took out

hers and began shooting, purposely missing the

raiders by centimetres just to tell them that she was an

excellent aim, and could easily pummel them unless

they surrendered. But they did not. One of the raiders,

the smartest one, crept around behind the sand dunes

until he was directly behind Amelia and the others. The

girl is the best shothe thought. I will shoot her first. He

aimed his gun carefully, and then pulled the trigger.

The bullet soared over every one elses head and sank

deep into Amelias flesh.

Amelia! screamed Ben, and Harvey snapped his

head around to see Amelia trembling, her hand


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pressed over her shoulder, her own blood smeared all

over it. She allowed the shriek of agony escape her lips

and then turned to Harvey. He had desperatelycrawled over to her, and now he was watching her,

horrified at the look on her face her lips were pressed

together and her face was almost white.

Im okay. Just need to stop bleeding. She

stuttered, her eyes squeezed shut to stop another

scream jumping off of her tongue. Her breathingscared Harvey the most, each breath coming out more

harsh and more ragged.

Shh he soothed. What do you need? he asked

calmly, though he was panicking on the inside.

A bandage she whispered. Harvey knew that the first

aid kit had been attached to the camels that were now

nowhere to be seen. Without even needing to think

about it, he whipped off his t-shirt and tore a strip off

of the bottom. Amelia put her finger up when he was

just about to put the home-made bandage on her. The

bullet its still in there. She gasped. Harvey felt a

shiver run down his spine despite the glaring sun,

because he knew that he would have to be the one

that pulled it out.

The blood-curdling screech that Amelia let out as he

did so was horrific, and a single tear spilled down her


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cheek as he wrapped the bandage around her arm,

trembling slightly at the sight of his best friend. As

Harvey aided her into lying down, and Amelia willedher shaken mind to drift, he became aware that the

shooting had stopped. He reluctantly left Amelias side

but turned curiously around to see a figure riding

towards them, the sun forbidding him to see his face.

He shielded his eyes, and a faint smile played at his

lips when he was able to see the features of this man.Lieutenant! Harvey grinned. Lieutenant clambered

off of his camel and ran towards them. When he saw

Amelias bloody and bandaged shoulder he was

distraught.

Im so sorry! This is all my fault! he said, his face

painted with sorrow and regret.

No its not how were you to know that those raiders

were on our tail? replied Harvey. Lieutenant

shrugged.

I could have sent more guards with you. He

mumbled.

Harvey stayed by Amelias side as he and Lieutenant

talked,

and he stroked her hair as he laughed, having fun.

Amelia on


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the other hand was being stabbed with a knife in her

shoulder over and over, and over again.

Several hours passed, and Harvey knew that Amelia

would be annoyed if he didnt wake her up soon. He

gently shook her awake, and she bolted up, her hand

snapping to her shoulder as she let out a heavy sigh.

It feels better, now. She lied, reading the question

that was on Harveys mind. She refused to let anyonehelp her with anything, repeating the fact that she had

to get used to using her arm normally. But Harvey was

not stupid, and he winced every time Amelia gritted

her teeth and pretended she was absolutely fine,

denying that she was in any pain at all. Her fists

clenched, she kept her eyes fixed straight ahead,

towards Agadir. She kept running the picture of home

through her head to stop herself from bursting into

tears of agony, and giving up the impossible fight to

get back there.

Ben seemed to be amazed at how far the camels could

carry them without needing water, especially as he

needed to take a gulp every five minutes. They could

now clearly make out the outline of Agadir in the

distance, the intricate details of each building that

lined the horizon. Closer and closer they trekked, and


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the more of the breathtaking awe that filled them with

wonder at the diverse and beautiful city before them.

At last, they reached the arch in the ancient wall thatsurrounded Agadir. After they clambered off of their

camels, they entered. They were struck by the wall of

the new and exciting atmosphere. Several different

songs filled the air, emitted by strange and foreign

instruments, the mysterious music drifting in between

the many other noises. Dark skinned men wearingeverything from robes to rags eyed them curiously,

some offering them exotic foods and others gesturing

to other unmoveable goods. They passed stalls lined

with dazzlingly coloured spices, the sweet and zesty

smells wafting around them. Women peered nervously

at them, their eyes the only visible thing underneath

their reserved black and white headdresses. A pitiful

frown crossed Amelias face as they passed many

children wearing dirt smothered clothes and trying to

sell them empty water bottles.

I give you good price for necklace? asked a clearly

timid man. Amelia eyed the beautiful necklaces,

deciding to buy one as a souvenir and plunged her

hands into her pockets, only to find they were empty.

She looked at him apologetically.

Sorry, I dont have any money she shrugged guiltily.

The


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man smiled warmly.

No matter, I give pretty necklace to pretty girl for no

price. He said kindly, and plucked one off of the sheetspread across the floor. Amelia beamed as he held out

a handsome green jade stone fixed into a silvery oval,

a matching chain looping

perfectly around it. She took it carefully.

Thank you. She added, before scampering off to

catch upwith Harvey, Ben and the others. She rejoined them,

and Harvey tutted as she fastened the necklace

around her neck.

Stay focused. He whispered. Amelia shot him a look.

Yes, you should be. She hissed back, though she

knew

that they really should be getting to the harbour as

soon as

possible. They continued to wander down the streets of

Agadir, occasionally stopping to rest and redress

Amelias shoulder, though it was fast healing. A white

man who seemed to be in a hurry walked straight into

her, apologised and walked on. Amelia scowled,

rubbing her shoulder gently. Harvey was pondering the

strange creatures in cages when he heard Amelia

gasp, and he reeled around just to see her dart off

down an alleyway at top speed.


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Amelia! he yelled, grabbing hold of Bens wrist and

yanking him the way she went. They hurtled after her,

but quickly fell behind, several people blocking theirway, offering them strange fruits and odd pets. They

skidded around a corner only to find that it was a dead

end: and there was no sign of Amelia anywhere.

Keeping her distance, Amelia soundlessly trailed the

figure in front of her. It must be him. She thought, andat that moment she caught a glimpse of his face. It

was definitely him It was definitely Eric, the mate of

the Arabella. He rounded a corner and Amelia backed

up against the wall. She counted five and then poked

her head around the side of the wall. The narrow little

street was empty. Amelia punched the air in

frustration. She had lost him, and she realised that she

had also lost Harvey and Ben. The arched street was

lined with little doors that were obviously houses, and

Amelia knew that she could not just guess which one

Eric had entered. She turned around began to retrace

her steps, hoping that Harvey had gone to the harbour

to wait for her. If not, then they were all well and truly

sunk.

Harvey sipped his coke wearily, his eyes skimming the

harbour for any flitter of chocolate curls or patter of


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blue all star converse. Ben sat opposite him, giving him

sideways glances every so often; taking swigs of his

fresh, enormous glass of Moroccan orange juice. Hesighed, dramatically loud. Harvey sat motionless,

watching every person that passed by. Fed up and sick

of sitting still, Ben jumped out of his chair and tapped

Harvey on the shoulder.

Im going for a wander, look at the boats and that.

He declared, and Harvey nodded. Ben ambledalongside the boats, all different shapes and sizes, but

most of them large and bulky looking. He passed the

biggest boat of them all and stopped to look up and

admire it. His eyes skimmed over the colossal ship, but

something was not quite right, he could sense it. He

frowned at the man stood looking back at him from the

front of the boat. He looked familiar that was when it

hit him. His eyes trailed back to the name painted on

the side. Sabrina, he read. But Ben knew that this was

most definitely not the Sabrina. The man glowering at

him was the sailor who had chloroformed Harvey. And

this was the Arabella.

A sailor on the Arabella, Frank was his name, studied

Bens expression from in the shadows behind carefully.

He had instantly recognised his face, as being Amelia

Hardys cousin, one of the three faces his boss had


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described (that was until he discovered they had

dehydrated in the Sahara),

and he now assumed that they were all alive and ontothem. He watched as Ben squinted at the name and

then staggered back ever so slightly. Frank grimaced.

The boy knew, and he would probably run and tell

Amelia. The boss is not going to like this. He thought,

as he entered phone booth next to him. He speedily

dialled the mates number and he answered gruffly.Its Frank. He began. I got some bad news for you.

Amelia sprinted out of the alleyway that lead to the

harbour. Not noticing Harvey, she spotted Ben in the

distance, gesturing madly for her to come to him. She

hurried towards him, exhausted yet eager for some

action. The speck that was her cousin grew larger, but

with a lurch of her stomach, she realised that she was

not the only one approaching him. Two figures were

closing in on him, and one of them was raising a what

looked like a club As the thump shook her stomach

she gasped and sprinted at the two men who were

holding the limp little shadow. They hoisted him onto

their shoulders and threw him into the back of a car.

Her rage conquering her weariness, she sped up, but

though she could run faster than anyone she knew, the

sleek black car took off as a taxi passed her.


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Determined, she leapt into the taxi, surprising the

driver.

Follow that car! she yelled. The driver staredfrantically around.

Which car madam? he urged. Amelia clenched her

fists.

Why that one she stopped as she realised that

there was indeed, no black car to be seen. Ben was

gone.

When Harvey had spotted her and reached Amelia, she

was stood motionless, staring into space.

Amelia? he asked uncertainly. Amelia slowly turned

to look at him, her face shocked and frightened.

They took Ben she whispered, in fear of her voice

cracking.

What do you mean? Who? asked Harvey. Amelia

pointed to the large ship next to them. Harvey

shrugged, not

understanding her gesture.

Thats the Arabella. She stated. Harvey spun back to

the ship, and instantly knew she was right.

And the crew took Ben? he assumed. Amelia nodded,

her

bottom lip trembling slightly.


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Its okay, well find him. He soothed, hugging her

close.

After a while, Amelia wriggled free, the regret goneand

replaced with a furious determination.

I followed the mate Eric down an alleyway, and he

disappeared into one of the houses in a street. I think I

can find my way back there, and I have a hunch that

well find Ben wherever he was going.

Amelia and Harvey wound through the intriguing

streets of Agadir, Amelia leading them expertly back

the way she had come from. They stopped for a quick

drink in a caf to

discuss their plan of action. As Amelia waited for the

two coffees she had ordered, she gazed upon rows of

interesting jars with bizarre contents strange tins of

everything imaginable: including a tin with a red

background and a scarlet scaled sardine staring back

at her. Amelia gasped and waved frantically at the

man behind the counter. Like most Moroccans, a dark

beard sprung from his face and concealed everything

but his mouth, and he hunched down nervously,

unable to look Amelia in the eye.

Please sir, would you mind opening that tin of

sardines just up there? she hurried. The man frowned


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anxiously at her and then reached up and took down

the tin. Amelia held her breath as he swiftly opened it

but her shoulders slumped in disappointment when hereyes met the slimy fish returning her gaze. Harvey

noticed the change in atmosphere and joined her at

the counter.

Whats up? he asked. Amelia showed him the tin of

sardines and his eyebrows knitted together. He looked

at the Moroccan man. Excuse me sir, but where didyou buy this tin? he questioned, using hand gestures

to ensure that the man understood.

Mohamed Ali, sidi; the shop on corner he replied

apprehensively. Harvey nodded at Amelia, and she

deposited a generous amount of money on the counter

before hurrying back down the street, Harvey on her

tail. They reached the little shop standing on the

corner and entered. Rows of wine, spices and tea filled

each square of the shelves, and Amelias eyes

skimmed across them until they met with a whole box

crammed with cans of sardines. She strode to the

counter and sounded the bell loudly. Almost instantly a

man stepped out from behind the curtains, smiling

warmly at her.

Please sir, I would like the name and address of the

supplier who sold you those tins of sardines up there.

She asked politely. The man nodded.


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Yes, they came from Oualid Ben Saaladir, the biggest

trader in all of Agadir. He is very, very rich and he lives

in a magnificent palace with many luxuries. Hebabbled, and Amelia smiled gratefully at him.

Thank you. She turned to leave, but something

caught her

eye and she grinned before turning to face the man

again. She added: And how much for some

disguises?

Amelia crouched down against the wall beside a quaint

little house, the baggy robes rough and slightly

irritating against her skin, a grey curly beard strapped

expertly to her face; the false hairs easy to hide behind

as she studied each person that walked by. A crooked

stick was clutched tightly in her hand, a pair of black

circular glasses hid her eyes, and a matching grey wig

concealed her dark hair. Harvey sat in a caf a little

way down the street, a maroon turban sitting on his

head and a fake moustache stuck tightly between his

nose and mouth. He casually read an Arabic

newspaper, good at pretending to understand it,

turning the page every so often for effect but really he

too was glimpsing everyone that passed, his and

Amelias eyes both peeled for the same person Eric.

Harvey had insisted that he made sure he knew where


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Amelia would begin phase two of the rescue mission

before going to inquire about this Oualid Ben Saladir.

He would wait and see which house Amelia wouldfollow Eric into, and once she was inside, make a

casual exit and look for Saladir. His thoughts were

shattered as he registered the face that had walked by

him, the face that they were looking out for. Amelias

heart fluttered as Harvey gave the simple signal they

had agreed on he tapped a spoon on the side of hiscoffee mug three times and rustled his newspaper.

Sure enough, Eric walked by, a purposeful look on his

fac

Amelia Hardy and the Case of the Scarlet Tipped Sardines

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