February 9th, 1873, Armed Constabulary Depot, Mount Cook 1400 hours.

Ira's trip down the hill into Wellington was uneventful. He successfully delivered the two bodies to the coroner and quickly made his way back to the Mount Cook depot so he could report the incident.

A stable-hand greeted Ira and took his horse to the stables for water and a customary rub down. Ira proceeded to the offices to attend to business. Inside, he was met by a hive of activity; clerks ...