THIEVES FOILED.

Taranaki Central Press, Volume IV, Issue 414, 22 April 1937, Page 5

THIEVES FOILED.

Film Star’s Illness Used. London. April 15. A teleyram about Merle Oberon, I who was slightly injured in a motor smash three weeks ago, was used in an attempt to obtain possession of a picture wortlr, 1500 guineas. “Go io Middlesex Hospital Immediately. Merle Oberon had very serious relaps© yesterday. Meet me there. Graves,” ran a telegram sent to Gerald Brockhurst, fhe artist. Half an hour later the following telegram reached Brookhurst’s home, addressed to Miss Woodward: "Chauffeur will call 4.15 p.m., will you give him picture of Ophelia.—Brock.” A car did arrive at 4.15 p.m., but the picture had already been sent to the Royal Academy. Brookhurst had painted the model. Dorette Woodward, as “Ophelia.” He had also painted a portrait of Merle Oberon and had submitted both to the Academy. Brookhurst was out when the first telegram arrived. The car which called had been ! hired by a man who telephoned order- , ing the ear to go to Brookhurst’s stui dio and pick up a parcel, which was Ito be delivered by two men who i would be waiting at Paddington Bta- | tion.