‘Did any of those boys who passed away play cricket, Robson?’ Cardilini asked as they walked side by side across the oval.

‘You ever been afraid, Cardilini?’ Robson asked.

‘Yes.’

‘I’m afraid. I’m afraid because you’re trying to plunge us into a nightmare beyond comprehension.’ Robson stopped short of the grandstand. ‘I’m not even sure you should be at the school, so if you would wait here, I’ll get you a cup of tea,’ he said and walked off.

Cardilini looked for Carmody. He was standing separate from the others next to a tall, gaunt, elderly man who appeared familiar. At one point they both turned to look at him then continued their conversation. Parents were mingling with the boys. Cardilini could see stern words of advice being issued. Carmody eventually joined the group and received a number of pats on the back. You’d think he was winning a war, Cardilini thought.

Robson returned to Cardilini with a cup of tea. They both stood silently looking across to the players. Carmody separated himself from the team and walked across to them.

‘What do you think our chances are, sir?’ Carmody asked Robson.

‘I wouldn’t bowl yourself again. But, well done.’

‘I agree, sir.’

‘Clarke has three for sixteen. Does he have any overs left?’ Robson asked.

‘Yes, sir.’

‘Bowl him, and who would you bowl with him?’ Robson asked.

‘Morrell.’

‘Good choice, they haven’t been able to hit him.’

‘Are you enjoying the game, Detective Sergeant Cardilini?’ Carmody asked.

‘Parts of it.’

‘What parts would they be?’

‘Where you were hit for a four.’

Carmody smiled, ‘Yes. It doesn’t happen often.’

‘It doesn’t,’ Robson confirmed.

‘And it won’t happen again,’ Carmody said and nodded respectfully before walking away.

‘I do respect the boy, Detective Cardilini. Despite everything, I believe he is of good character,’ Robson said.

‘Who’s the skinny old chap in the tea line?’ Cardilini asked pointing.

Robson turned to Cardilini surprised, then returning his gaze towards the gathering said, ‘An interested spectator.’

Cardilini accepted this with a nod.

Robson took Cardilini’s empty teacup and saucer and they parted company.

Cardilini started towards his car before becoming aware of a group of young students staring at him. He stopped, ‘Any questions, boys?’

‘No, sir,’ one eventually replied. Cardilini continued to his car.

Kilkenny Rd

4.15 p.m. Saturday, 31st October 1965

Paul was standing on the front verandah when the car pulled into the driveway, he watched his father walk towards the house. Cardilini looked up at him and stood still.

Paul spoke defiantly, ‘I’m going to help with the garden because it’s what Mum would want.’

Cardilini nodded. ‘The academy’s still all good,’ he said and swore to himself he would make it ‘good’ no matter what it cost him.

Paul looked back, defeated and disbelieving. He took a breath before saying, ‘But I’m working at the drive-in tonight.’