We trace its vile history through a series of child abductions and mysterious disappearances from the Brindle years to the present day.

The Pipes: The Wapping workhouse - unfondly remembered locally as 'The Orphanage' - is long gone, but the site retains its malign influence. But who dare's disturb him at this ungodly hour? Sebastian, workhouse old boy made good since his escape five years ago, has returned to pay Master the compliments of the season. Spare the rod, spoil the child and that's excuse enough for Brindle to indulge his kink. Now the governor banquets while his charges, all aged between five and ten years old, toil through the 'holiday' on rations of nowt. Captain Charlesworth, who despises Beech as a sadist and pervert, foolishly demands proof.Ĭhristmas Eve in the Workhouse: Once again, Master Brindle has found the most trivial excuse to cancel the children's Christmas. Professor Beech insists that he alone among those present can define the meaning of horror. Talk turns to Mr Dickens' new ghost story. The First and Second Horror: A winter's night at the club warming one's bones beside the fire. Jackdaw He Saw: Song lyrics of an appropriately doom laden nature. Regular Vault Advent Calendar watchers may recognise a few titles.

l could use the old French excuse that you can only understand good when you understand evil but, to be honest, maybe I just like being nasty.'Īrrived yesterday afternoon. It is a cathartic exercise perhaps, seeking out the most horrific scenario and then trying to make it even worse: Puzzles are almost always fun especially when they make you shudder and look over your shoulder. I like disturbing that comfort for reasons I don't quite fully understand myself. 'The nights will have drawn in and, hopefully, you will be comfortable at home.

School by Craig Herbertson