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Imprisonment and Execution in Modern Singapore Part III of Barb's Singapore Saga

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As a lawyer, Jeffrey`s efforts were poor,
He failed Amanda Jones and Barbara Moore,
Yet he`s enjoying the time of his life
Abusing his pregnant young wife.
While Jo, who caused much of Barb`s pain,
Has just taken a stiff dose of the cane.
Next, each tender pert nip
Will feel the lash of the single tail whip.
As the weak link in RBG`s plan,
She`s now set up to carry the can.
 
Kathy cried out in surprise and excitement. She had never allowed anal play during sex before, but the small invader felt good, she thought.
Hmm. If Jeffrey is still harboring any lingering resentments over his earlier treatment by his wife, perhaps he should let the gel in her ass run its course and then try one of the suppositories in her vagina while he demonstrates that she cannot deny him her rear passage...

It only seems appropriate that if he not be doing anything to allay Amanda's treatment, he at least echo it.
 
Wednesday - A New Day A-Dawning!
Despite my best efforts, one of the characters insisted on mentioning Trixie. He will be appropriately reprimanded and we shall not hear from her again.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Tujuh – Two days 5 hours

Various locations, Singapore, Wednesday, April 10, 2019
At 6:41 AM, the sun rose over The Republic of Singapore. The day started with light fog and 27.7°C (82°F). Sunny skies were forecast and a high of 34° (93°).

Barbara Moore awoke, stiff as usual from the thin mat on a hard stone floor, but still in the afterglow of getting revenge on that Josephine bitch. After she’d eaten breakfast, Imran appeared and conducted the humiliating inspection. He and the other guards were unusually free in mauling her breasts and deeply probing her orifices.
When they were finished, Imran brought his face close to hers. “You have more work today, bitch. Remember the friend of the Commandant, Mr. An? He has requested you for this afternoon. Be ready to indulge his every whim!” He and the others laughed at this and left the cell. Barbara went and curled up tight on her mat. Mr. An. God! It had been hell with him last time!

Amanda woke in an infirmary bed after a restless and painful night. He ass and rectum had been on fire. The ointment that the nurse had applied helped, but only slightly. Dr. Liú was expected this morning and might help further. However, Amanda dreaded her next bowel movement!

Chunhua Liú reluctantly dragged herself out of bed. Her ass and breasts were still sore from the beating they had received the day before. Far worse than the physical pain was the dread and humiliation she felt. In a matter of a few minutes, she had gone from being an independent, rising-star physician to being the sex and pain slave of the Commandant and the Chief Guard.
For the first time in a long while, Chunhua had no enthusiasm as she set off for Changi.

Josephine awoke in her soft bed with the silk sheets but had found no comfort there this last night. The guilt of her screw-ups and the betrayal of mama Rut’s trust weighed heavy on her mind. Her cunt was still sore, but much recovered from yesterday. Her body, however, ached from the numerous, painful welts that she had received.
Today she would probably be arrested. She faced public humiliation and dreadful punishment. All that faded when she thought back to the look of disappointment on mama’s face.
But Josephine Shanmugam was made of stern stuff. She meticulously applied her usual tasteful makeup and, mindful of the Cabinet Meeting today, donned one of her best suits. She would face her disgrace, with her head held high!

When Frost had gotten home last night, he mixed himself a small G&T to celebrate. After savoring it on his patio, he had felt quite tired and went early to bed. Even with only one little drink, Jack had slipped off to sleep almost instantly. When he rose this morning, he felt more refreshed and content than he had in years. He had promised himself he would solve this case, and he had!

At his desk in Changi at an early hour, Commandant bin Osman huddled with his two assistants. They had to complete the details for the two significant events coming up on Thursday and Friday. These would significantly enhance his reputation with the power elite in Singapore and generate a substantial profit!

Ambassador Walkerson sprang from his bed Wednesday morning and went straight to his exercise bike. A leader like Scot needed to stay in top shape.
This morning, before it got too hot, he was playing nine-holes with the British Ambassador at the Singapore Island Country Club. He had been looking forward to playing at the most exclusive golf club in the Republic. Non-members could not play there unless the guest of a member. Membership was a long and challenging process, beyond the reach of transient diplomates. However, in a throwback to the Colonial era, the Club always accepted the current Ambassador from the Court of St. James’s as an ex-officio member.
Scot was relieved that his discussion with President Berbahagia went so well last evening. She was very open to the idea of lessening the sentences and sparing the US embarrassment. She reminded Walkerson that the Singaporean President did not, in practice, have the unlimited pardon powers that the US President enjoyed. Much depended on the recommendation of her Cabinet. It would be difficult to ignore their advice if they gave a strong recommendation either way.
As he got off the bike, winded and sweating, Scot thought of Kathy Hodges. Warming his shower water, he tried to visualized Hodges’ young wife. Burnside's description (backed up by a response from his young assistant, Thompson, to the effect that Kathy was “a hot piece of ass”) made her, in his mind, a very desirable object. Thirteen weeks pregnant? Early pregnancy in women had always occupied a sweet spot in Scot’s set of sexual desires. Was she was as dedicated to her husband’s career as all reported? If so, what might she be willing to do to advance that?
The Ambassador stepped into the stinging flow of the shower and thought of the dinner Thursday night.

Robert Burnside was in the office as early as possible. He wanted to contact his corresponding number in the Ankara Embassy before the man left for the day. Despite the Ambassador’s orders, Robert was going to ask for help for Trixie Thomson. Burnside had felt badly firing her as abruptly as he had, on his boss’s orders. He knew they were leaving her alone and on limited resources. Now she was in such deep trouble. He wanted to talk to his friend before the Ambassador came in.
“Sorry, Robert, there’s nothing I can do,” said the voice on the phone with regret. “The Old Man has forbidden any help or contact. It seems your boss put a bug in his ear about Miss Thomson. I hear that the drug boys have solid evidence of her bringing in a kilo of hash, and they don’t take that lightly. If they decide to prosecute aggressively, it will go very bad for her. Meanwhile, Trixie will be left to the tender mercies of the thugs from the KOM, who have no mercy. I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy. Her only hope is if she has some wealthy friends back in the states who could hire her a top local firm of lawyers.”
“That’s not going to happen,” said Burnside. “She comes from poverty. I tried calling her mother, Trixie's only known contact, but the line had been disconnected for non-payment. No one back home even knows she’s in trouble.”
“Then she better pray to get a kind and gentle KOM officer in charge. But you know the difficulty with that.”
“There aren’t many?”
“There aren’t any!”

Jeffrey Hodges slept late and awoke, snuggled in the arms of his loving wife. Her face was so sweet and innocent, he thought. No one would believe all the dirty things she had submitted to last night. My sex-slave, he thought! In doing so, he felt a stirring in his loins. He kissed her lightly on the cheeks and slipped a hand around to caress her soft, round ass gently. As he did so, he felt a few welts remaining from last night.
Jeffrey wondered how his wife would feel about what he’d done to her. Would he face regrets or recrimination in the bright light of day? He could live with that. It would pass. He would accept a few days of icy treatment for that beautiful night.
He rubbed her ass more, pulling their hips together. His erection now pressed against her belly. Slipping his hand down to her crack and stroking her pussy from behind, he kissed that angelic face again on the soft cheek.
Kathy opened her eyes and smiled at him. “I love you.” She said.
“I love you too,” he said, running her fingers up and down her slit and maneuvering his cockhead closer to her gash.
“Is my Lord still horny this morning?” she said, kissing him lightly on the lips and moving her hand down to cup his balls, drawing a groan.
“Uuhhh. A beautiful sex slave does that to me.”
“Well, this slave wants her Lord to know that last night was wonderful, and,” she gave his balls the lightest squeeze, “while she a bit sore, she’s still his slave. Is there anything else in that bag of tricks of yours?”
"Now that you mention it, there is.” They both smiled.
 
As another day dawns in old Singapore,
Things are proceeding much as before.
Barb`s feeling chipper after her revenge upon Jo,
But Imran`s revealed just how things will go.
Amanda`s anus is bleeding and raw,
Chunhua`s tits and ass from the cane are still sore.
But Jo will soon be put in her place,
Having to face the ultimate disgrace
 
Wednesday - A New Day A-Dawning!
Despite my best efforts, one of the characters insisted on mentioning Trixie. He will be appropriately reprimanded and we shall not hear from her again.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Tujuh – Two days 5 hours

Various locations, Singapore, Wednesday, April 10, 2019
At 6:41 AM, the sun rose over The Republic of Singapore. The day started with light fog and 27.7°C (82°F). Sunny skies were forecast and a high of 34° (93°).

Barbara Moore awoke, stiff as usual from the thin mat on a hard stone floor, but still in the afterglow of getting revenge on that Josephine bitch. After she’d eaten breakfast, Imran appeared and conducted the humiliating inspection. He and the other guards were unusually free in mauling her breasts and deeply probing her orifices.
When they were finished, Imran brought his face close to hers. “You have more work today, bitch. Remember the friend of the Commandant, Mr. An? He has requested you for this afternoon. Be ready to indulge his every whim!” He and the others laughed at this and left the cell. Barbara went and curled up tight on her mat. Mr. An. God! It had been hell with him last time!

Amanda woke in an infirmary bed after a restless and painful night. He ass and rectum had been on fire. The ointment that the nurse had applied helped, but only slightly. Dr. Liú was expected this morning and might help further. However, Amanda dreaded her next bowel movement!

Chunhua Liú reluctantly dragged herself out of bed. Her ass and breasts were still sore from the beating they had received the day before. Far worse than the physical pain was the dread and humiliation she felt. In a matter of a few minutes, she had gone from being an independent, rising-star physician to being the sex and pain slave of the Commandant and the Chief Guard.
For the first time in a long while, Chunhua had no enthusiasm as she set off for Changi.

Josephine awoke in her soft bed with the silk sheets but had found no comfort there this last night. The guilt of her screw-ups and the betrayal of mama Rut’s trust weighed heavy on her mind. Her cunt was still sore, but much recovered from yesterday. Her body, however, ached from the numerous, painful welts that she had received.
Today she would probably be arrested. She faced public humiliation and dreadful punishment. All that faded when she thought back to the look of disappointment on mama’s face.
But Josephine Shanmugam was made of stern stuff. She meticulously applied her usual tasteful makeup and, mindful of the Cabinet Meeting today, donned one of her best suits. She would face her disgrace, with her head held high!

When Frost had gotten home last night, he mixed himself a small G&T to celebrate. After savoring it on his patio, he had felt quite tired and went early to bed. Even with only one little drink, Jack had slipped off to sleep almost instantly. When he rose this morning, he felt more refreshed and content than he had in years. He had promised himself he would solve this case, and he had!

At his desk in Changi at an early hour, Commandant bin Osman huddled with his two assistants. They had to complete the details for the two significant events coming up on Thursday and Friday. These would significantly enhance his reputation with the power elite in Singapore and generate a substantial profit!

Ambassador Walkerson sprang from his bed Wednesday morning and went straight to his exercise bike. A leader like Scot needed to stay in top shape.
This morning, before it got too hot, he was playing nine-holes with the British Ambassador at the Singapore Island Country Club. He had been looking forward to playing at the most exclusive golf club in the Republic. Non-members could not play there unless the guest of a member. Membership was a long and challenging process, beyond the reach of transient diplomates. However, in a throwback to the Colonial era, the Club always accepted the current Ambassador from the Court of St. James’s as an ex-officio member.
Scot was relieved that his discussion with President Berbahagia went so well last evening. She was very open to the idea of lessening the sentences and sparing the US embarrassment. She reminded Walkerson that the Singaporean President did not, in practice, have the unlimited pardon powers that the US President enjoyed. Much depended on the recommendation of her Cabinet. It would be difficult to ignore their advice if they gave a strong recommendation either way.
As he got off the bike, winded and sweating, Scot thought of Kathy Hodges. Warming his shower water, he tried to visualized Hodges’ young wife. Burnside's description (backed up by a response from his young assistant, Thompson, to the effect that Kathy was “a hot piece of ass”) made her, in his mind, a very desirable object. Thirteen weeks pregnant? Early pregnancy in women had always occupied a sweet spot in Scot’s set of sexual desires. Was she was as dedicated to her husband’s career as all reported? If so, what might she be willing to do to advance that?
The Ambassador stepped into the stinging flow of the shower and thought of the dinner Thursday night.

Robert Burnside was in the office as early as possible. He wanted to contact his corresponding number in the Ankara Embassy before the man left for the day. Despite the Ambassador’s orders, Robert was going to ask for help for Trixie Thomson. Burnside had felt badly firing her as abruptly as he had, on his boss’s orders. He knew they were leaving her alone and on limited resources. Now she was in such deep trouble. He wanted to talk to his friend before the Ambassador came in.
“Sorry, Robert, there’s nothing I can do,” said the voice on the phone with regret. “The Old Man has forbidden any help or contact. It seems your boss put a bug in his ear about Miss Thomson. I hear that the drug boys have solid evidence of her bringing in a kilo of hash, and they don’t take that lightly. If they decide to prosecute aggressively, it will go very bad for her. Meanwhile, Trixie will be left to the tender mercies of the thugs from the KOM, who have no mercy. I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy. Her only hope is if she has some wealthy friends back in the states who could hire her a top local firm of lawyers.”
“That’s not going to happen,” said Burnside. “She comes from poverty. I tried calling her mother, Trixie's only known contact, but the line had been disconnected for non-payment. No one back home even knows she’s in trouble.”
“Then she better pray to get a kind and gentle KOM officer in charge. But you know the difficulty with that.”
“There aren’t many?”
“There aren’t any!”

Jeffrey Hodges slept late and awoke, snuggled in the arms of his loving wife. Her face was so sweet and innocent, he thought. No one would believe all the dirty things she had submitted to last night. My sex-slave, he thought! In doing so, he felt a stirring in his loins. He kissed her lightly on the cheeks and slipped a hand around to caress her soft, round ass gently. As he did so, he felt a few welts remaining from last night.
Jeffrey wondered how his wife would feel about what he’d done to her. Would he face regrets or recrimination in the bright light of day? He could live with that. It would pass. He would accept a few days of icy treatment for that beautiful night.
He rubbed her ass more, pulling their hips together. His erection now pressed against her belly. Slipping his hand down to her crack and stroking her pussy from behind, he kissed that angelic face again on the soft cheek.
Kathy opened her eyes and smiled at him. “I love you.” She said.
“I love you too,” he said, running her fingers up and down her slit and maneuvering his cockhead closer to her gash.
“Is my Lord still horny this morning?” she said, kissing him lightly on the lips and moving her hand down to cup his balls, drawing a groan.
“Uuhhh. A beautiful sex slave does that to me.”
“Well, this slave wants her Lord to know that last night was wonderful, and,” she gave his balls the lightest squeeze, “while she a bit sore, she’s still his slave. Is there anything else in that bag of tricks of yours?”
"Now that you mention it, there is.” They both smiled.
That whole episode had the feeling of the calm before the torture and punishment storm! Barb, Amanda, Chunhua Liú and Josephine all waking to face their own trials and tribulations ... I am shivering with antici ... pation ... wonderful!
 
新加坡共和国内阁
(The Cabinet of the Republic of Singapore)
Forms the Government (executive branch) of Singapore together with the President of Singapore. It is led by the Prime Minister of Singapore who is the head of government.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Lapan – One Day, 22 Hours

Cabinet Room, The Istana, Singapore, Wednesday, 1:55 PM
Josephine tried to act normal and cheerful with her Cabinet colleagues as they gathered before the bi-weekly meeting. However, the more perceptive among them knew at once that something was troubling their youngest peer.
At two o’clock precisely, all present were in their seats around the large circular Cabinet table. The Prime Minister, backed by his six Deputy, Senior and Assisting Ministers, sat at the head. The fifteen Department heads were all present, each with the Second Minister or Deputy sitting behind them. The last person at the table was Rayyan bin Haziq, Cabinet Affairs Secretary to President Rose Berbahagia.

About an hour later, as the meeting was winding down, the Prime Minister called on Rayyan to ask if the President had any matters for the Cabinet to consider.
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. There is one matter. If all would please turn to item 35A in their briefing booklets.” He paused to allow pages to be flipped. “You will see the matter of Barbara Ann Moore and Amanda Virginia Jones, both US citizens. Although they are separate cases, the President has requested that you consider them together and, if at all possible, return the same recommendation for each.”
“Miss Moore was convicted of the murder of a police informant while in custody, and not charged, but believed involved in drug dealing. She was sentenced to death by enhanced means. The Appeal Court heard her appeal in due course and rejected it. She has now requested clemency from the President to have her sentence reduced or converted to time served and exile.”
“Miss Jones was convicted just this last Sunday in drug court of possessing cocaine with the intent to sell and of resisting arrest, and by that resistance causing the death of a CNB agent. She has also been sentenced to death by enhanced means. Under our drug laws, she was allowed no court appeal. She now requests of the President the same compassion as Miss Moore.”
“The President also believes it appropriate for you to know that the US Ambassador has expressed the fervent wish of his government that such executions of US citizens do not take place. He is concerned that negative publicity may harm the excellent relationship between our countries. The President shares that concern. Thank you for your consideration.”

“Thank you, Secretary,” said the PM. “Are there any comments from the Cabinet?”
As was customary, the first speakers were more junior Ministers. These spoke up with tentative support for compassion. They believed that the importance of the relations with the US outweighed the need for strict punishment. Some also opposed such harsh a sentence on two young women. Others argued for the need to uphold the courts’ rulings.
On the whole, clemency did appear to have more support. As the discussion moved to the most senior Ministers, that edge for granting clemency continued.
After most had spoken, The Prime Minister turned to Josephine, who had been silent so far. “Since Presidential Pardon and Clemency impact on our criminal justice system, I would like to hear the opinion of the First Minister of Home Affairs.”

Josephine paused and cleared her throat. She knew this would probably be her last act as Minister and that her opinion could easily sway the Cabinet either way.
“Thank you, Prime Minister. The exercise of Presidential Clemency is indeed of the greatest interest to the Home Affairs Ministry. Although you all have a detailed report of each case before you, please indulge me as I go through what my department believes are the salient points to consider.”

“While these cases are separate, there are multiple areas of similarity and overlap. We at Home Affair agree with the President that it is appropriate to consider the two together. I strongly urge that the Cabinet recommendation be the same for each.” Heads nodded around the table.
“You should first note that both women were convicted and sentenced by courts of competent jurisdiction. They were each given all the rights and consideration that we give the accused in our justice system. Over the years, we have carefully tuned that system to balance the accused's rights against the need to maintain order and protect our citizens from criminals' harm. Under this system, both women are convicted and sentenced.”
“I should point out the significant similarities of the cases that led to the harsh judgments. In each instance, drug-dealing, a terrible scourge upon our people, was involved with credible evidence. Our system, therefore, prescribes exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Moore’s case, she murdered a fellow inmate while in jail. She appears to have been aware that the inmate was informing against her concerning drugs. Our system, to maintain order in the jails and prisons and to protect police sources, has prescribed exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Jones’ case, she has admitted carrying cocaine with the intention to sell. She has also refused to help the authorities in identifying the rest of her drug network. Most disturbing is that she is believed to have caused a drug agent's death by resisting arrest. Our system, again, to protect the agents who risk their lives for us in the struggle against drugs, prescribes exceptional punishment for this.”
“Miss Moore was given the full right of appeal, and the court heard that appeal and even took the rare step of meeting over two days to consider the defense arguments fully. In the end, they rejected the appeal.”
“Miss Jones was, of course, not given an appeal. As a matter of policy, we have decided that swift and sure punishment is the best deterrent to drug traffickers.”
“It cannot be doubted that the verdicts and sentences of the courts in this matter are just and align with our policy and procedure. This request for mercy seems solely based on two arguments. First that we should, for some reason, show mercy. I point out that neither woman has apologized for the harm they caused. Other than being young and female, they are not especially deserving of mercy. It would set a dangerous and discriminatory precedent if young and female demanded mercy.”
“The Ministry of Home Affairs believes that the procedures have been appropriately followed. There is no remaining argument for clemency except to preserve our relations with the United States of America. That goal is, of course, a matter of the greatest import. The friendship between us and that country is old and strong. Our economic ties are significant. We should not lightly take action to offend our good friend. The Home Ministry would never recommend that we do so.”

Secretary Rayyan let out his breath. The President very much wanted to pardon these women. But the arguments that Josephine had made so far had probably swayed most of the Cabinet into opposition. Thank God she would accede to the US request.

“However, fellow Ministers,” Josephine raised her voice and spoke with cold determination. “We have not taken action against our friend. Our justice system has worked as was intended. These women have been treated and sentenced just as our own would be. It is unreasonable for our friend to say to us, ‘do not follow your laws; do not punish our citizens as you punish your own; ignore your justice to preserve economic ties!’ No real friend would say that!”
Shit! Thought Rayyan, there it goes!
“The Ministry of Home Affairs, as the administrators and guardians of our superb criminal justice system, believe that clemency here would undermine that entire system. We are inflexibly opposed to any reduction of these sentences.”
With those last words, Josephine had seemed to have exhausted her last reserve of strength. She slumped, silent, back into her chair. You could have heard a pin drop in the room. Her impassioned oratory had stunned her listeners.

After a moment, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke up.
“I believe that, with the opinion of the Minister of Home Affairs stated so clearly and forcefully, that the consensus of the Cabinet is to support her recommendation. Therefore, I ask for a show of hands of those who would deny clemency. Eight of the fifteen Ministers raised their hands. Soon four more of the junior Ministers joined, then another than another. In the end, only one junior Minister, with a reputation as a maverick, refused to join.
The Prime Minister, who usually did not vote, announced the result.
“Secretary bin Haziq. Please inform President Berbahagia of the recommendation of her Cabinet by a vote of 14 to 1 to deny any reduction of the sentence of either prisoner.”
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister.” Said Rayyan with the utmost courtesy.
 
新加坡共和国内阁
(The Cabinet of the Republic of Singapore)
Forms the Government (executive branch) of Singapore together with the President of Singapore. It is led by the Prime Minister of Singapore who is the head of government.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Lapan – One Day, 22 Hours

Cabinet Room, The Istana, Singapore, Wednesday, 1:55 PM
Josephine tried to act normal and cheerful with her Cabinet colleagues as they gathered before the bi-weekly meeting. However, the more perceptive among them knew at once that something was troubling their youngest peer.
At two o’clock precisely, all present were in their seats around the large circular Cabinet table. The Prime Minister, backed by his six Deputy, Senior and Assisting Ministers, sat at the head. The fifteen Department heads were all present, each with the Second Minister or Deputy sitting behind them. The last person at the table was Rayyan bin Haziq, Cabinet Affairs Secretary to President Rose Berbahagia.

About an hour later, as the meeting was winding down, the Prime Minister called on Rayyan to ask if the President had any matters for the Cabinet to consider.
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. There is one matter. If all would please turn to item 35A in their briefing booklets.” He paused to allow pages to be flipped. “You will see the matter of Barbara Ann Moore and Amanda Virginia Jones, both US citizens. Although they are separate cases, the President has requested that you consider them together and, if at all possible, return the same recommendation for each.”
“Miss Moore was convicted of the murder of a police informant while in custody, and not charged, but believed involved in drug dealing. She was sentenced to death by enhanced means. The Appeal Court heard her appeal in due course and rejected it. She has now requested clemency from the President to have her sentence reduced or converted to time served and exile.”
“Miss Jones was convicted just this last Sunday in drug court of possessing cocaine with the intent to sell and of resisting arrest, and by that resistance causing the death of a CNB agent. She has also been sentenced to death by enhanced means. Under our drug laws, she was allowed no court appeal. She now requests of the President the same compassion as Miss Moore.”
“The President also believes it appropriate for you to know that the US Ambassador has expressed the fervent wish of his government that such executions of US citizens do not take place. He is concerned that negative publicity may harm the excellent relationship between our countries. The President shares that concern. Thank you for your consideration.”

“Thank you, Secretary,” said the PM. “Are there any comments from the Cabinet?”
As was customary, the first speakers were more junior Ministers. These spoke up with tentative support for compassion. They believed that the importance of the relations with the US outweighed the need for strict punishment. Some also opposed such harsh a sentence on two young women. Others argued for the need to uphold the courts’ rulings.
On the whole, clemency did appear to have more support. As the discussion moved to the most senior Ministers, that edge for granting clemency continued.
After most had spoken, The Prime Minister turned to Josephine, who had been silent so far. “Since Presidential Pardon and Clemency impact on our criminal justice system, I would like to hear the opinion of the First Minister of Home Affairs.”

Josephine paused and cleared her throat. She knew this would probably be her last act as Minister and that her opinion could easily sway the Cabinet either way.
“Thank you, Prime Minister. The exercise of Presidential Clemency is indeed of the greatest interest to the Home Affairs Ministry. Although you all have a detailed report of each case before you, please indulge me as I go through what my department believes are the salient points to consider.”

“While these cases are separate, there are multiple areas of similarity and overlap. We at Home Affair agree with the President that it is appropriate to consider the two together. I strongly urge that the Cabinet recommendation be the same for each.” Heads nodded around the table.
“You should first note that both women were convicted and sentenced by courts of competent jurisdiction. They were each given all the rights and consideration that we give the accused in our justice system. Over the years, we have carefully tuned that system to balance the accused's rights against the need to maintain order and protect our citizens from criminals' harm. Under this system, both women are convicted and sentenced.”
“I should point out the significant similarities of the cases that led to the harsh judgments. In each instance, drug-dealing, a terrible scourge upon our people, was involved with credible evidence. Our system, therefore, prescribes exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Moore’s case, she murdered a fellow inmate while in jail. She appears to have been aware that the inmate was informing against her concerning drugs. Our system, to maintain order in the jails and prisons and to protect police sources, has prescribed exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Jones’ case, she has admitted carrying cocaine with the intention to sell. She has also refused to help the authorities in identifying the rest of her drug network. Most disturbing is that she is believed to have caused a drug agent's death by resisting arrest. Our system, again, to protect the agents who risk their lives for us in the struggle against drugs, prescribes exceptional punishment for this.”
“Miss Moore was given the full right of appeal, and the court heard that appeal and even took the rare step of meeting over two days to consider the defense arguments fully. In the end, they rejected the appeal.”
“Miss Jones was, of course, not given an appeal. As a matter of policy, we have decided that swift and sure punishment is the best deterrent to drug traffickers.”
“It cannot be doubted that the verdicts and sentences of the courts in this matter are just and align with our policy and procedure. This request for mercy seems solely based on two arguments. First that we should, for some reason, show mercy. I point out that neither woman has apologized for the harm they caused. Other than being young and female, they are not especially deserving of mercy. It would set a dangerous and discriminatory precedent if young and female demanded mercy.”
“The Ministry of Home Affairs believes that the procedures have been appropriately followed. There is no remaining argument for clemency except to preserve our relations with the United States of America. That goal is, of course, a matter of the greatest import. The friendship between us and that country is old and strong. Our economic ties are significant. We should not lightly take action to offend our good friend. The Home Ministry would never recommend that we do so.”

Secretary Rayyan let out his breath. The President very much wanted to pardon these women. But the arguments that Josephine had made so far had probably swayed most of the Cabinet into opposition. Thank God she would accede to the US request.

“However, fellow Ministers,” Josephine raised her voice and spoke with cold determination. “We have not taken action against our friend. Our justice system has worked as was intended. These women have been treated and sentenced just as our own would be. It is unreasonable for our friend to say to us, ‘do not follow your laws; do not punish our citizens as you punish your own; ignore your justice to preserve economic ties!’ No real friend would say that!”
Shit! Thought Rayyan, there it goes!
“The Ministry of Home Affairs, as the administrators and guardians of our superb criminal justice system, believe that clemency here would undermine that entire system. We are inflexibly opposed to any reduction of these sentences.”
With those last words, Josephine had seemed to have exhausted her last reserve of strength. She slumped, silent, back into her chair. You could have heard a pin drop in the room. Her impassioned oratory had stunned her listeners.

After a moment, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke up.
“I believe that, with the opinion of the Minister of Home Affairs stated so clearly and forcefully, that the consensus of the Cabinet is to support her recommendation. Therefore, I ask for a show of hands of those who would deny clemency. Eight of the fifteen Ministers raised their hands. Soon four more of the junior Ministers joined, then another than another. In the end, only one junior Minister, with a reputation as a maverick, refused to join.
The Prime Minister, who usually did not vote, announced the result.
“Secretary bin Haziq. Please inform President Berbahagia of the recommendation of her Cabinet by a vote of 14 to 1 to deny any reduction of the sentence of either prisoner.”
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister.” Said Rayyan with the utmost courtesy.
Wow - another scene that would look superb on TV! But bloody Josephine! WTF!!!

I was convinced there would be leniency but now I really am unsure.

Kudos to our esteemed author. Brilliant PrPr!
 
Wow - another scene that would look superb on TV!
I am currently entertaining offers from both Netflix and Amazon Prime!
I'm holding out for having Paul Bettany play Jeffrey; Judi Dench as RBG; and Willow Shields as Amanda. Non-negotiable is having our own Barbara Moore play herself!
 
新加坡共和国内阁
(The Cabinet of the Republic of Singapore)
Forms the Government (executive branch) of Singapore together with the President of Singapore. It is led by the Prime Minister of Singapore who is the head of government.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Lapan – One Day, 22 Hours

Cabinet Room, The Istana, Singapore, Wednesday, 1:55 PM
Josephine tried to act normal and cheerful with her Cabinet colleagues as they gathered before the bi-weekly meeting. However, the more perceptive among them knew at once that something was troubling their youngest peer.
At two o’clock precisely, all present were in their seats around the large circular Cabinet table. The Prime Minister, backed by his six Deputy, Senior and Assisting Ministers, sat at the head. The fifteen Department heads were all present, each with the Second Minister or Deputy sitting behind them. The last person at the table was Rayyan bin Haziq, Cabinet Affairs Secretary to President Rose Berbahagia.

About an hour later, as the meeting was winding down, the Prime Minister called on Rayyan to ask if the President had any matters for the Cabinet to consider.
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. There is one matter. If all would please turn to item 35A in their briefing booklets.” He paused to allow pages to be flipped. “You will see the matter of Barbara Ann Moore and Amanda Virginia Jones, both US citizens. Although they are separate cases, the President has requested that you consider them together and, if at all possible, return the same recommendation for each.”
“Miss Moore was convicted of the murder of a police informant while in custody, and not charged, but believed involved in drug dealing. She was sentenced to death by enhanced means. The Appeal Court heard her appeal in due course and rejected it. She has now requested clemency from the President to have her sentence reduced or converted to time served and exile.”
“Miss Jones was convicted just this last Sunday in drug court of possessing cocaine with the intent to sell and of resisting arrest, and by that resistance causing the death of a CNB agent. She has also been sentenced to death by enhanced means. Under our drug laws, she was allowed no court appeal. She now requests of the President the same compassion as Miss Moore.”
“The President also believes it appropriate for you to know that the US Ambassador has expressed the fervent wish of his government that such executions of US citizens do not take place. He is concerned that negative publicity may harm the excellent relationship between our countries. The President shares that concern. Thank you for your consideration.”

“Thank you, Secretary,” said the PM. “Are there any comments from the Cabinet?”
As was customary, the first speakers were more junior Ministers. These spoke up with tentative support for compassion. They believed that the importance of the relations with the US outweighed the need for strict punishment. Some also opposed such harsh a sentence on two young women. Others argued for the need to uphold the courts’ rulings.
On the whole, clemency did appear to have more support. As the discussion moved to the most senior Ministers, that edge for granting clemency continued.
After most had spoken, The Prime Minister turned to Josephine, who had been silent so far. “Since Presidential Pardon and Clemency impact on our criminal justice system, I would like to hear the opinion of the First Minister of Home Affairs.”

Josephine paused and cleared her throat. She knew this would probably be her last act as Minister and that her opinion could easily sway the Cabinet either way.
“Thank you, Prime Minister. The exercise of Presidential Clemency is indeed of the greatest interest to the Home Affairs Ministry. Although you all have a detailed report of each case before you, please indulge me as I go through what my department believes are the salient points to consider.”

“While these cases are separate, there are multiple areas of similarity and overlap. We at Home Affair agree with the President that it is appropriate to consider the two together. I strongly urge that the Cabinet recommendation be the same for each.” Heads nodded around the table.
“You should first note that both women were convicted and sentenced by courts of competent jurisdiction. They were each given all the rights and consideration that we give the accused in our justice system. Over the years, we have carefully tuned that system to balance the accused's rights against the need to maintain order and protect our citizens from criminals' harm. Under this system, both women are convicted and sentenced.”
“I should point out the significant similarities of the cases that led to the harsh judgments. In each instance, drug-dealing, a terrible scourge upon our people, was involved with credible evidence. Our system, therefore, prescribes exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Moore’s case, she murdered a fellow inmate while in jail. She appears to have been aware that the inmate was informing against her concerning drugs. Our system, to maintain order in the jails and prisons and to protect police sources, has prescribed exceptional punishment for that.”
“In Jones’ case, she has admitted carrying cocaine with the intention to sell. She has also refused to help the authorities in identifying the rest of her drug network. Most disturbing is that she is believed to have caused a drug agent's death by resisting arrest. Our system, again, to protect the agents who risk their lives for us in the struggle against drugs, prescribes exceptional punishment for this.”
“Miss Moore was given the full right of appeal, and the court heard that appeal and even took the rare step of meeting over two days to consider the defense arguments fully. In the end, they rejected the appeal.”
“Miss Jones was, of course, not given an appeal. As a matter of policy, we have decided that swift and sure punishment is the best deterrent to drug traffickers.”
“It cannot be doubted that the verdicts and sentences of the courts in this matter are just and align with our policy and procedure. This request for mercy seems solely based on two arguments. First that we should, for some reason, show mercy. I point out that neither woman has apologized for the harm they caused. Other than being young and female, they are not especially deserving of mercy. It would set a dangerous and discriminatory precedent if young and female demanded mercy.”
“The Ministry of Home Affairs believes that the procedures have been appropriately followed. There is no remaining argument for clemency except to preserve our relations with the United States of America. That goal is, of course, a matter of the greatest import. The friendship between us and that country is old and strong. Our economic ties are significant. We should not lightly take action to offend our good friend. The Home Ministry would never recommend that we do so.”

Secretary Rayyan let out his breath. The President very much wanted to pardon these women. But the arguments that Josephine had made so far had probably swayed most of the Cabinet into opposition. Thank God she would accede to the US request.

“However, fellow Ministers,” Josephine raised her voice and spoke with cold determination. “We have not taken action against our friend. Our justice system has worked as was intended. These women have been treated and sentenced just as our own would be. It is unreasonable for our friend to say to us, ‘do not follow your laws; do not punish our citizens as you punish your own; ignore your justice to preserve economic ties!’ No real friend would say that!”
Shit! Thought Rayyan, there it goes!
“The Ministry of Home Affairs, as the administrators and guardians of our superb criminal justice system, believe that clemency here would undermine that entire system. We are inflexibly opposed to any reduction of these sentences.”
With those last words, Josephine had seemed to have exhausted her last reserve of strength. She slumped, silent, back into her chair. You could have heard a pin drop in the room. Her impassioned oratory had stunned her listeners.

After a moment, the Deputy Prime Minister spoke up.
“I believe that, with the opinion of the Minister of Home Affairs stated so clearly and forcefully, that the consensus of the Cabinet is to support her recommendation. Therefore, I ask for a show of hands of those who would deny clemency. Eight of the fifteen Ministers raised their hands. Soon four more of the junior Ministers joined, then another than another. In the end, only one junior Minister, with a reputation as a maverick, refused to join.
The Prime Minister, who usually did not vote, announced the result.
“Secretary bin Haziq. Please inform President Berbahagia of the recommendation of her Cabinet by a vote of 14 to 1 to deny any reduction of the sentence of either prisoner.”
“Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister.” Said Rayyan with the utmost courtesy.
Istana-Singapore-20090127.jpg
 
Another excessively long entry. There is so much to relate as we move toward the executions on Friday.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Sembilan – One Day, 21 Hours

Cell, Death Row, Changi Prison, Wednesday, 3:00 PM
OK, Princess,” said Lim Hua-Upp, entering Barb’s Cell with another guard. “Time for your date with Mr. An.”
Barbara rose reluctantly, and the guard handed her some pieces of fabric. The top was a thin, almost sheer, white cropped tee with a Maroon and Gold “M” over the chest. The bottoms were, simply, ridiculous. The same white, semi-sheer fabric was trimmed with the same colors. They dipped down so far in the back that half her crack showed. In the front, it stayed below the top of her trimmed pubic hair.
As Barbara pulled on the humiliating cheerleading outfit, she turned to Lim and said in disgust, “You are kidding, right!”
1430811011002_Northwestern_v_Minnesota.jpg
Lim almost giggled at the sight she made and her sarcastic comment. “Sorry, Princess, that’s what Mr. An had delivered for you. He said he was going to put you through your paces this time.” He laughed again. They proceeded to cuff her hands behind, but did not add a hood (an indulgence for which Barbara was grateful).
The men marched her down two halls before coming to a door marked VIP4. They unlocked the door, pushed Barb in, and locked it behind her.

Barb glanced around the room and saw, with disgust, that it was festooned with Cheerleading paraphernalia. All about were school flags and banners, pom-poms, hair-bows, megaphones, posters of cheerleading teams, and, most suggestively, photos of scantily clad girls executing suggestive poses.
In a chair in the corner, legs casually crossed, dressed immaculately in an off-white linen suit with matching shirt, tie, and shoes, was Mr. An, casually puffing on a white ivory custom vape.
“Welcome, Barbara Ann. You make a wonderful Minnesota Cheerleader! We are going to have much fun together.”

Irrawaddy Rd., Outside the Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore, Wednesday 3:45 PM
Musa and Frost waited in an unmarked car at the entrance to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Musa held the arrest warrant issued by the Parliamentary Court. He was also dressed in his Guards officer uniform. Frost was in a suit with his typical rumpled look along with his felt fedora. On the other side of the gate was a van with a driver, two Parliamentary Guards, and Captain Mcgregor. He had begged to be part of the arrest, and Musa was happy to oblige.

A black limo pulled up in front, and the detectives exited their car and approached. Shanmugam, two of her deputies and two bodyguards, climbed out of the limo and headed for the entrance. Musa and Frost blocked their way.
“A moment please, First Minister,” said bin Ibrahim.
Josephine stopped and looked up at Musa with resignation. Before she could speak, one of her deputies and a bodyguard moved between her and the detectives.
“Step aside, detectives,” said the Deputy. “You have no right to interfere with the First Minister!”
“Careful there, laddie,” came the voice of Captain Mcgregor. Josephine’s entourage turned to see him and two armed Guards with him. “Ye need to step aside. We have a warrant frae the Parliamentary Court.”
“It’s fine, Bill,” said Jo, with resignation. “They have their job to do. What is it, Chief Inspector?” she asked, trying to look unconcerned as her world was shattering to tiny pieces.
“I have a court warrant of your arrest. I shall spare you the embarrassment of reading the charges here, if that is acceptable.”
“Perfectly.”
He had her turn around and cuffed her wrists behind.
“Captain Mcgregor. Take possession of the prisoner and transport her back to Guards’ Headquarters for booking. You shall treat her with the utmost respect.”
“Aye, like the Queen hersel,” said the old Scot. Taking her arm gently, he began to lead her to the van. “This way Lassie. Watch your step.”
The detectives stood in silence as they watched Mcgregor use his hand to protect the Minister’s head as she slid into the van seat. He closed the door behind her and climbed in the shotgun seat. A moment later, the van crept quietly away.

“Well, old friend. Does that make you feel better?” asked Musa.
“Neigh about twenty years younger! Let’s off to the Adjournment, and I’ll buy the rounds. As long as you’ll try one pint of real ale?”
“For you, my friend, I’ll try anything!”

Singapore, Wednesday Afternoon, April 10, 2019
In contrast to the Appeal Court Order, which was methodically disseminated to the interested parties, the President's decision on an appeal required no set communication. Gradually, the news spread and was met by varying reactions.

Jeffrey Hodges Office, US Embassy, Singapore, Wednesday, 4:10 PM
Jeffrey was sitting in his office, nervously trying to pass the time. The stress finally got to him. He decided to try Dr. Liú again. When she answered the phone, her voice was friendly, though lacking in her usual cheer. After a little small talk, Jeffrey asked, “Are you interested in dinner – and maybe dessert?”
“I’m sorry, Jeffrey. That’s not really a good idea now. We need to maintain some distance. I really do wish you well.” With no further explanation, she hung up, leaving Jeff frustrated and confused.

As a courtesy, Secretary Haziq rang the office of Ambassador Walkerson and passed on the disappointing news along with President Rose’s regrets. The Ambassador voiced a few choice swear words before calling Burnside with the news. He, in turn, walked to Jeffrey’s office, just as the attorney was hanging up from Chunhua, and gave him the news.
Jeffrey stared at Robert, open-mouthed for a short while, and then buried his head in his hands and wept loudly. Burnside tactfully withdrew.
After ten minutes, Hodges began to pull himself together. That’s the end, he thought. There is no other hope. Barbara and Amanda would die on Friday! He pounded his fists on the desk over and over in anger at the unfairness of it all. Finally, he stood up and grabbed his briefcase. Striding out, he told Mrs. Rittenhouse (his new secretary) that he was going home. Jeffrey rode the elevator down to the basement parking, fuming with anger.

Phone Call Between Rut Betar-Gisber and Wie An Kow, Wednesday, 5:30 PM
WAK: Good evening, Your Ladyship. You are working late today.
RBG: As are you, Colonel. Dedicated senior civil servants know no clock.
WAK: Just so. I presume you have heard of our arrest of First Minister Shanmugam?
RBG: Yes. I was much shocked. As you may know, she is a protégée of mine. She had always seemed dependable and loyal.
WAK: Our detectives built a case against her with rock-solid forensic evidence. When she was confronted, she confessed, and the confession was recorded.
RBG: My, my! Confessed, and recorded? Not very clever. Pray tell, why have you contacted me?
WAK: As I am sure you appreciate, the charges against the First Minister are extremely serious. She will lose her office and be barred forever from public service. But, besides, these criminal acts could earn extreme punishment, even up to death.
RBG: Most serious indeed. And most regrettable.
MAK: My thoughts precisely. You also should be aware of significant intertwinings between Shanmugam’s case and those of Miss Moore and Miss Jones.
RBG: Perhaps.
WAK: Some have wondered if there was any way to ‘mitigate’ their sentences as well as Josephine’s?
RBG: An intriguing idea, Colonel. But the legal options seem exhausted. Are you aware of the results of the Cabinet meeting today?
WAK: No. I tend to avoid government affairs outside of my Parliamentary responsibilities.
RGB: A wise and correct policy. The government shall continue to respect your independence as long as you respect theirs. However, you need to know that the Cabinet strongly urged President Berbahagia to deny the final appeal. Rose has no choice but to follow such a recommendation. So that would seem to be the end of that.
WAK: As I indicated, I am mostly ignorant in these areas. Hence this call to you. Your experience and knowledge of how the government and the criminal justice system works is second to none in Singapore. We have three young ladies facing terrible punishment. I cannot help but wonder if something is not possible.

RBG: You flatter me, Colonel. However, I do confess to an excessively long public service. That does inform one of how things get done in the Republic. I shall have to put my thinking cap on and see what I might come up with. Timing is a concern here. Wednesday is gone, and the executions occur at noon on Friday – just, umm, one day and eighteen hours from now.
WAK: Indeed, time is very pressing.
RBG: Even worse. The President is now the only person in Singapore who can change or delay the sentences. She left an hour ago for a state visit to Indonesia. Rose will not return from Jakarta until Friday morning!
WAK: Very tight indeed! However, I have confidence that if there is a way, you shall find it, your Ladyship. I hate to see three young lives wasted!
RBG: As do I, Colonel. Your compassion does you proud. Let us speak tomorrow.
WAK: Very good.
 
Another excessively long entry. There is so much to relate as we move toward the executions on Friday.

Seratus Tiga Puluh Sembilan – One Day, 21 Hours

Cell, Death Row, Changi Prison, Wednesday, 3:00 PM
OK, Princess,” said Lim Hua-Upp, entering Barb’s Cell with another guard. “Time for your date with Mr. An.”
Barbara rose reluctantly, and the guard handed her some pieces of fabric. The top was a thin, almost sheer, white cropped tee with a Maroon and Gold “M” over the chest. The bottoms were, simply, ridiculous. The same white, semi-sheer fabric was trimmed with the same colors. They dipped down so far in the back that half her crack showed. In the front, it stayed below the top of her trimmed pubic hair.
As Barbara pulled on the humiliating cheerleading outfit, she turned to Lim and said in disgust, “You are kidding, right!”
View attachment 912467
Lim almost giggled at the sight she made and her sarcastic comment. “Sorry, Princess, that’s what Mr. An had delivered for you. He said he was going to put you through your paces this time.” He laughed again. They proceeded to cuff her hands behind, but did not add a hood (an indulgence for which Barbara was grateful).
The men marched her down two halls before coming to a door marked VIP4. They unlocked the door, pushed Barb in, and locked it behind her.

Barb glanced around the room and saw, with disgust, that it was festooned with Cheerleading paraphernalia. All about were school flags and banners, pom-poms, hair-bows, megaphones, posters of cheerleading teams, and, most suggestively, photos of scantily clad girls executing suggestive poses.
In a chair in the corner, legs casually crossed, dressed immaculately in an off-white linen suit with matching shirt, tie, and shoes, was Mr. An, casually puffing on a white ivory custom vape.
“Welcome, Barbara Ann. You make a wonderful Minnesota Cheerleader! We are going to have much fun together.”

Irrawaddy Rd., Outside the Ministry of Home Affairs, Singapore, Wednesday 3:45 PM
Musa and Frost waited in an unmarked car at the entrance to the Ministry of Home Affairs. Musa held the arrest warrant issued by the Parliamentary Court. He was also dressed in his Guards officer uniform. Frost was in a suit with his typical rumpled look along with his felt fedora. On the other side of the gate was a van with a driver, two Parliamentary Guards, and Captain Mcgregor. He had begged to be part of the arrest, and Musa was happy to oblige.

A black limo pulled up in front, and the detectives exited their car and approached. Shanmugam, two of her deputies and two bodyguards, climbed out of the limo and headed for the entrance. Musa and Frost blocked their way.
“A moment please, First Minister,” said bin Ibrahim.
Josephine stopped and looked up at Musa with resignation. Before she could speak, one of her deputies and a bodyguard moved between her and the detectives.
“Step aside, detectives,” said the Deputy. “You have no right to interfere with the First Minister!”
“Careful there, laddie,” came the voice of Captain Mcgregor. Josephine’s entourage turned to see him and two armed Guards with him. “Ye need to step aside. We have a warrant frae the Parliamentary Court.”
“It’s fine, Bill,” said Jo, with resignation. “They have their job to do. What is it, Chief Inspector?” she asked, trying to look unconcerned as her world was shattering to tiny pieces.
“I have a court warrant of your arrest. I shall spare you the embarrassment of reading the charges here, if that is acceptable.”
“Perfectly.”
He had her turn around and cuffed her wrists behind.
“Captain Mcgregor. Take possession of the prisoner and transport her back to Guards’ Headquarters for booking. You shall treat her with the utmost respect.”
“Aye, like the Queen hersel,” said the old Scot. Taking her arm gently, he began to lead her to the van. “This way Lassie. Watch your step.”
The detectives stood in silence as they watched Mcgregor use his hand to protect the Minister’s head as she slid into the van seat. He closed the door behind her and climbed in the shotgun seat. A moment later, the van crept quietly away.

“Well, old friend. Does that make you feel better?” asked Musa.
“Neigh about twenty years younger! Let’s off to the Adjournment, and I’ll buy the rounds. As long as you’ll try one pint of real ale?”
“For you, my friend, I’ll try anything!”

Singapore, Wednesday Afternoon, April 10, 2019
In contrast to the Appeal Court Order, which was methodically disseminated to the interested parties, the President's decision on an appeal required no set communication. Gradually, the news spread and was met by varying reactions.

Jeffrey Hodges Office, US Embassy, Singapore, Wednesday, 4:10 PM
Jeffrey was sitting in his office, nervously trying to pass the time. The stress finally got to him. He decided to try Dr. Liú again. When she answered the phone, her voice was friendly, though lacking in her usual cheer. After a little small talk, Jeffrey asked, “Are you interested in dinner – and maybe dessert?”
“I’m sorry, Jeffrey. That’s not really a good idea now. We need to maintain some distance. I really do wish you well.” With no further explanation, she hung up, leaving Jeff frustrated and confused.

As a courtesy, Secretary Haziq rang the office of Ambassador Walkerson and passed on the disappointing news along with President Rose’s regrets. The Ambassador voiced a few choice swear words before calling Burnside with the news. He, in turn, walked to Jeffrey’s office, just as the attorney was hanging up from Chunhua, and gave him the news.
Jeffrey stared at Robert, open-mouthed for a short while, and then buried his head in his hands and wept loudly. Burnside tactfully withdrew.
After ten minutes, Hodges began to pull himself together. That’s the end, he thought. There is no other hope. Barbara and Amanda would die on Friday! He pounded his fists on the desk over and over in anger at the unfairness of it all. Finally, he stood up and grabbed his briefcase. Striding out, he told Mrs. Rittenhouse (his new secretary) that he was going home. Jeffrey rode the elevator down to the basement parking, fuming with anger.

Phone Call Between Rut Betar-Gisber and Wie An Kow, Wednesday, 5:30 PM
WAK: Good evening, Your Ladyship. You are working late today.
RBG: As are you, Colonel. Dedicated senior civil servants know no clock.
WAK: Just so. I presume you have heard of our arrest of First Minister Shanmugam?
RBG: Yes. I was much shocked. As you may know, she is a protégée of mine. She had always seemed dependable and loyal.
WAK: Our detectives built a case against her with rock-solid forensic evidence. When she was confronted, she confessed, and the confession was recorded.
RBG: My, my! Confessed, and recorded? Not very clever. Pray tell, why have you contacted me?
WAK: As I am sure you appreciate, the charges against the First Minister are extremely serious. She will lose her office and be barred forever from public service. But, besides, these criminal acts could earn extreme punishment, even up to death.
RBG: Most serious indeed. And most regrettable.
MAK: My thoughts precisely. You also should be aware of significant intertwinings between Shanmugam’s case and those of Miss Moore and Miss Jones.
RBG: Perhaps.
WAK: Some have wondered if there was any way to ‘mitigate’ their sentences as well as Josephine’s?
RBG: An intriguing idea, Colonel. But the legal options seem exhausted. Are you aware of the results of the Cabinet meeting today?
WAK: No. I tend to avoid government affairs outside of my Parliamentary responsibilities.
RGB: A wise and correct policy. The government shall continue to respect your independence as long as you respect theirs. However, you need to know that the Cabinet strongly urged President Berbahagia to deny the final appeal. Rose has no choice but to follow such a recommendation. So that would seem to be the end of that.
WAK: As I indicated, I am mostly ignorant in these areas. Hence this call to you. Your experience and knowledge of how the government and the criminal justice system works is second to none in Singapore. We have three young ladies facing terrible punishment. I cannot help but wonder if something is not possible.

RBG: You flatter me, Colonel. However, I do confess to an excessively long public service. That does inform one of how things get done in the Republic. I shall have to put my thinking cap on and see what I might come up with. Timing is a concern here. Wednesday is gone, and the executions occur at noon on Friday – just, umm, one day and eighteen hours from now.
WAK: Indeed, time is very pressing.
RBG: Even worse. The President is now the only person in Singapore who can change or delay the sentences. She left an hour ago for a state visit to Indonesia. Rose will not return from Jakarta until Friday morning!
WAK: Very tight indeed! However, I have confidence that if there is a way, you shall find it, your Ladyship. I hate to see three young lives wasted!
RBG: As do I, Colonel. Your compassion does you proud. Let us speak tomorrow.
WAK: Very good.
This is building to a huge climax, in far more ways than one! Simply wonderful!
 
To avoid a great deal Moore pain,
Barb must play the cheerleader again.
She`d be unwise to cross Mr. An,
A cruel and unpleasant man.
With Jo now under lock and key,
The Colonel can apply pressure to RBG.
Barb and Amanda may just survive
And get out of this mess alive.

This is building to a huge climax, in far more ways than one! Simply wonderful!
Note the tendency of shlock writers to rely on cliffhangers to keep up the readers' interest. I must confess that I am now worrying constantly that my conclusion will never live up to your expectations.
One day and 18 hours - 42 hours left in Barbara's and Amanda's lives as the episode ends. That is certainly not much time!
 
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