The Epic Casebook - Death Most Known

Inspector Carr is assigned by investigate a claim made by an American to be the sole heir of one of Britain's oldest Earldoms. When Ralph Marriott, from the state of Wyoming in the US, arrived to claim the title, he created a fund in which he promised that for every fifty pound share invested in his fund, the sender could hope to receive a one hundred percent profit as soon as the inheritance became his. Marriott claimed the purpose of the fund was to seek financial support for his rightful claims to the succession. This upset the establishment quite considerably. Questions were asked in Parliament. The home secretary was asked to look into it, so he invoked the aid of Scotland Yard. The Commissioner delegated Carr with the task of probing Mr. Marriott's motives and integrity. Carr began by paying a visit to Mr. Marriott at his current place of residence in England. When Marriott came to the door, Carr says "Mr. Marriott?" He says "Yes, I take it your Inspector Carr". Carr says "Yes, sir. Here is my warrant card" Marriott says "Oh, I don't need to see that now. You come on in. I mean, you're not arresting me or anything like that. Or are you?" Carr says "No, sir. As I said on the telephone, the home secretary is a little bit worried about all this publicity". Marriott says "Now, you said something about my inheritance. Any question you happen to ask, I'll be happy to answer". Carr says "Well, it's very good of you, sir. I've been through your papers. There's no reason at all why you shouldn't be in this country or why you shouldn't lay claim to the title. Frankly, Mr. Marriott, what is worrying us is the advertisement. The fund seems to be degrading for the British aristocracy. It's like gambling on your claim of inheritance". Marriott says "Okay, I get the message. I've probably received enough dough to pay all the fees I need. You can go back and tell your commissioner there'd be no more soliciting. I'll withdraw the advertisement. Mind you, there's an exception to every rule".