The old mill burned quickly and the two warehouses nearby were already on fire by the time we got there.’ Bell shook his head sadly. We tried to save them but it was no good.’ Bell, Crimson, Grunge, Reach, Brian and Bligh looked glum. When Bligh had heard the news of the night’s fires he had sent Brian to ask Bell and the Muddles to meet them for breakfast. They were to discuss how to cope with the new turn of events. ‘Two fires in one night. Are they punishing us for asking for help?’ Brian sounded bewildered. Grunge swallowed the last of his toast. ‘I think whoever’s behind these fires is sending us a message. They’re telling us that no matter what we do, it won’t make any difference. They want us to feel helpless.’ ‘Both fires must have been started at about the same time. It has to be the work of more than one person. It’s impossible to get from one side of Beadledom to the other within an hour,’ said Bligh. He picked up a plate and offered it to Crimson. ‘Muffin?’ he asked.
