Viewpoint

Matthew, motivated by a desire to have something about which to boast to his fellow pupils, climbed the ladder left against the wall by his next door neighbour. Mr. Chrimes had been painting the fascia for several days. He had taken so long, Matthew calculated, because his vantage point offered a view into the rear bedroom at number 22 Beech Crescent. As he neared the top, wondering which of the dwelling’s female occupants he might witness, his mouth fell open. Through the window, he saw Mrs. Beverley, being embraced by a man. When the man turned, he identified his father.