Adele considered reporting Shazza to the governor but that would only create more problems. Nobody liked a grass.

She pictured Anna on the day when she had found her with her wrist slit. Why were they letting Shazza do this to them?

No, something had to be done. And, if no one else would do it, then she’d have to take action herself.

Then an idea formed in her mind. There was only one way to put a stop to Shazza. Now she knew what she had to do. After all, she had the tools at her disposal. It was just a matter of biding her time and waiting for the right moment.

Chapter 24

Peter lined up the staff of the Golden Bell ready to address them. Max had taken a seat off to one side and was nursing a tumbler of whisky while Glynn was standing next to Peter.

As Peter had predicted, Max had soon come back to him, anxious to cut a deal for Peter to have part-ownership. Not only that, but Max had also agreed to let him run the place; he would merely provide advice and back-up when needed.

Peter looked at each of the bar staff in turn, making them wait to hear what he had to say. It was important to exert his influence right from the outset and it gave him a buzz knowing they were all answerable to him now. Max had already given him the lowdown so he knew who were the shirkers, the slackers and the shady as well as who was reliable.

Most of the barmaids were pretty girls in their twenties with the odd exception. There was Paula, for example, who was a bit rough around the edges but, according to Max, an absolute diamond. Peter would need staff like her.

Then his eyes settled on the camp barman, Julian, not the best worker, from what Max had told him. And he definitely had an attitude problem. Noticing Peter surveying him, Julian began to roll his eyes and toss his head in mock annoyance.

‘Right!’ said Peter after some minutes. ‘I’m Pete and this here is Glynn.’ He nodded at Glynn, who remained impassive. ‘You’re probably wondering why Max has asked me to speak to you,’ Peter continued. ‘Well, I’ve got some news for you all. From now on I’ll be running this place and you lot will be answerable to me.’

Peter turned to Max for affirmation and he responded with a nod of his head. As he turned back towards the staff, Peter noted the look of astonishment on Julian’s face and he suppressed an amused smile. Some of the staff let out shocked whimpers and they began to mutter amongst themselves.