The Avengers (1961) s02e11 Episode Script
Traitor in Zebra
(theme music playing) (knock on door) Sub-Lieutenant Crane is here, sir.
Man: All right, Williams, bring him in.
Sub-Lieutenant Crane, sir.
Sub-Lieutenant Crane, I have to inform you that as a result of a recent court of inquiry the commander in chief has issued instructions that you be held under close arrest to appear before a court martial to be convened at this station.
The charge is that you did, on several unspecified dates during the last six months, pass on information of a top secret nature to a person or persons unknown.
If you have a defense, Crane, I hope it's a good one? It is sir.
I am not guilty.
All right, carry on.
Oh, good morning, I'm Commander Steed.
I believe you have a room for me.
Oh, yes, sir.
It's all ready.
Oh, I think I'll have a small drink first.
- I've been driving the whole morning.
- What would like, sir? I'll have a large gin, please.
- Large gin.
- Pink.
- Morning.
- Man: Morning.
Oh, good morning.
- Good morning.
- Oh, Mrs.
Gale.
She's working at that naval place down here.
I suppose you'll be going there, too.
Yes, I am, for a few days.
Uh, may I offer you a drink, Mrs.
Gale? Thank you, Commander, I'll have a gin and tonic.
- Why the fancy dress? - I'm a service psychiatrist Temporary, short term commission, acting unpaid, present attached to admiralty.
I think it rather suits me, don't you? Admirably, but you don't keep your hat on between decks.
Oh, well, what's the set up? They have a very fine laboratory.
They're quite satisfied with my work, and in one week I've discovered absolutely nothing.
Nothing? Are you quite sure I'm not wasting my time here? I'd much rather be in Tehran doing relief work.
I thought you were interested in helping Sub-Lieutenant Crane? You found out nothing, whatever? Nobody's even mentioned his name.
- You're quite certain he's still there? - He's there all right.
He's confined to his cabin under close arrest.
They've developed at HMS Zebra a system which may be of absolutely beneficial importance to our defense system.
The enemy knows that.
They've developed a system for jamming those transmissions, and Crane is supposed to have given them the information to do this.
- But we think he was framed.
- It's possible.
Anyway, we're keeping him locked up until the next test transmission.
If that's unsuccessful, then we know that he's not responsible.
Yes, but for how long? You can't keep him locked up indefinitely.
Don't think it'll be for long.
I suppose he's safer in than out.
Until our equipment is safe from jamming, the prototype can't be put into production.
The final test is during the NATO exercises at the end of the month.
It's a bad road at weekends, too.
There was a traffic jam almost two miles long last Saturday.
Well then, I think I'll keep off it.
Will you put that on the bill, young lady? - Yes, sir.
- I think I better drink up.
Got to report to the Wardroom at 2:00.
Do you think they'll pipe you aboard? (marching footsteps) - Commander Steed.
- Leave us please.
- Hello.
- Hello, sir.
Sit down, won't you? - How do you feel? - How do you think? How would you feel? Just relax and answer my questions.
What do you want? Just a friendly chat.
- I'm not mad, you know? - Nobody said you were.
Then why are you here? I told you, I want to talk to you.
- Don't you want to talk? - No.
All right, then, I'll do the talking.
You do that, doctor.
The Navy had developed the finest unit for tracking enemy missiles and satellites in the world.
Now this transmitter is operated by a ruby crystal.
The formula is a top secret.
The fact that it could be jammed means that an enemy agent knew the formulas, otherwise they wouldn't have be able to build the machine to jam it.
Now someone in this unit - is passing out the information, you? - No.
A complete list of the metals was found in your cabin, a copy of the formula and the calibration graphs.
And a dictionary and travel brochure which proved that I was planning to take my next leave - in a certain foreign country.
- Were you? - No.
- Then why did you buy the dictionary? I never saw it before.
Three witnesses at the court of inquiry said you repeatedly expressed your admiration.
All I said was that the government of this country could learn a thing or two about efficiency.
That's your opinion.
How much are they paying you? Who is your contact? Now if you tell me the truth, I can help you.
If you lie to me, I can't do anything.
Well, if you really want to know, they deposited a million dollars for me in a bank in Honolulu.
I have a beautiful black dancing girl waiting for me.
It'll only be 15 years.
Why did you, on several occasions, stay behind in the control room after the others had gone? Because I wanted to learn something about my job.
- Or was it to memorize the formula? - No.
- Which you afterwards typed out on your own typewriter.
- No.
- I think you're lying! - That's not true! I believe that you were approached because of your known political sympathies.
But gradually, bit by bit, you got so involved you couldn't get out of it, because they'd paid you too much and because you were afraid.
- That's not true.
- I think it is! I didn't do it! I gave no information whatever to anyone! Whose side are you on? Yours.
Williams is an officer of the watch, isn't he? - Saturday, yes, sir.
- Has Steed arrived yet? - Oh, yes, sir.
- Don't drown it, please.
He saw Crane after lunch, sir, and then went out again.
He wanted to see you but you were over - in the control room most of the afternoon.
- Mm.
- Shall we go along and see how the others are getting on? - Yes, sir.
Man on P.
A.
: Will Lieutenant Commander Scott pick up the telephone at the porter's desk, please? Will Lieutenant Commander Scott pick up the telephone at the porter's desk, please? What are you looking so gloomy about, Graham? Oh, we had a bit of trouble with the computer, sir.
Don't talk shop in the Wardroom, least of all when it's our social evening.
- Do you have a head of security? - Don't worry about me.
I've signed the official secrets act.
- There's Commander Steed now, sir.
- Oh, good.
- Commander Steed, Nash, here.
- How do you do, sir? How do you do? Welcome to Zebra.
Do you care to drink? - Yes, I'd like a gin, thank you.
- Uh, steward.
Did you have a nice trip down? Bit foggy out of London, plain sailing after that.
Good, now let's see, you are staying at the Glendower Arms aren't you? If you have any complaints, you kick my secretary.
- How do you do? - Hello, sir.
Oh, let me introduce you.
Now this is Joe Franks, he's the local press baron.
Commander Steed, the headshrinker - from the admiralty.
- Hello there.
And this is Dick Thorne, our chief egghead around here, - on loan to us from Malvern.
- How do you do? You might show Commander Steed round your box of tricks, tomorrow, Dick, not that he'll understand it.
Not a chance.
- I'd be delighted.
- Thank you.
Oh, and this is Sub-Lieutenant Graham, a very serious scientist.
- How do you do? - How do you do, sir? Come along, Mellors, organize some drinks for our guest.
- Oh, yes, sir.
- Social evening, you know, Steed.
Once a month, we invite all our civilian friends up for a game and a drink.
Mustn't lose contact, you know.
Nice to meet another stranger from outer space Mr.
Steed.
- You staying long? - Just a few days.
Someone here in need of a psychiatrist? None that I know of.
Well, Mr.
Steed, what sort of treatment do you specialize in? The sort that gets results.
Can we have the same again, please, Maggie.
Of course, Mr.
Rankin.
Who's winning? Oh, Thomas as usual.
My eye's not in yet really.
Actually, I'm the worst darts player in the world.
Still, it's jolly good fun.
Now take something for yourself, won't you Maggie.
Thank you, Mr.
Rankin.
I'll have a lager with my supper, if I may? Mustn't have too much on an empty stomach.
Hello, Linda, thought you were going out tonight.
Couldn't come, had to write a report or something.
Anyway, I'm tired of him.
Plays darts and beer, that's all he ever thinks of.
Don't tell me, I'm sick of the same old faces.
Never mind, though, another few weeks, we'll be out of this hole forever.
How's the saving? - 85 pounds so far, and you? - 60 odd.
This will be the 20th time I've had to empty him, another 15 pounds should be enough, then the bright lights.
This is one little piggy that's not going to stay at home.
Graham: Slash it.
That's too much, bring it up.
Be gentle, you're not trying to throttle someone.
This is what we call our main control room, Commander.
There's a transmitter up the top with another dish like that one out there.
In there, there's a computer which does all the quick thinking for us and this is where it all comes out.
- I'm not clear, really, what it is you transmit.
- Light.
A specially manufactured ruby is inserted into a tube.
Then we spot light down the tube, the light beam bounces off some object miles up in the sky and, well, we know what the enemy had for breakfast.
What's the advantage over radar? Oh, far more powerful and accurate.
And the light beams are as ordered and controllable as the rays sent out by ordinary radio valves.
Distance here you see.
Distance in hundreds, height in tens.
You see for yourself, she's about a hundred miles up and, oh, 1,500 away.
She's an instrument capsule to test the upper atmosphere.
It's been in orbit about a year now.
Trouble is we know exactly where to look so it's all too easy.
Steed: If you know where she is, why do you have to track her? Thorne: Oh, just for practice, in case there was anything flying around that we really wanted to know about.
- So it is a sort of radar.
- Sort of, sort of.
The the width and frequency of the beam depends on the presence of minute quantities of certain metals, metals such as chromium, niobium and titanium.
These are mixed with carbon and fused over a white-hot flame until we get growth of ruby.
I can show you the lab if you like, if you're not already too bored with all this, sir.
Just baffled.
Back in a moment.
Aye, aye sir.
Now this is the lab, Commander.
Here is where we make the powders for the actual ruby.
The powder as well as manufacture of that is well-known.
It's what we put with them that counts.
These are code names for some of the stuff we use.
- Are you much of a chemist? - Bottom of the class.
Ah, you might find this more interesting.
Here's where we actually make the crystals.
We do quite a lot just for practice.
My new assistant, from Malvern.
- Hello.
- How do you do? Steed: Can women really do this sort of thing? Thorne: Oh, yes, under careful supervision.
Dr.
Gale, would you mind showing the commander exactly what you're doing? - Yes, of course.
- If you'll excuse me.
You're not frightened of burning your fingers, eh? - What woman would be for a ruby this size? - Ah.
Anyway, you can control the flame quite easily here.
Here you can see the beginning of the synthetic growth and the flow of powder is regulated by that trembler here.
I've just heard something.
They're going to have a new test transmission with a new frequency on a new satellite next week.
That looks like sugar.
Has the new frequency settled? - Yes, this morning.
- The ruby? Thorne made it himself without help.
Could anyone find out what the mixture was before - or would it have to be after? - I'm not sure.
Thorne: Okay in a moment, Steed? When you are.
Find out, it's vital.
- Could it be Thorne? - Possibly.
How long does it take to line up the transmitter? Two or three days.
If someone's gonna jam next week's transmission, it has to be done pretty quickly and they have to know the formula, maybe tonight.
Well, any the wiser? - I'm gonna stick to psychiatry.
- Good idea.
Well, I don't know if that gives you a rough idea Can't you find anyone to play with, Mr.
Mellor? - Uh, just practicing.
- Shall I ask them over there? Uh, no thanks, Maggie, not tonight.
Maggie: Good evening, Mr.
Rankin.
Oh, good evening, Maggie.
I haven't seen you with your paint box lately.
What's the matter, have you lost your inspiration? There's no light in this cold valley, Maggie.
You got to go south where the sun burns into the earth and brings out the living colors.
Well, I've only ever been as far south as Swansea, myself, but if you want someone to carry your paint box.
One day, Maggie I'll paint you cavorting in the Mediterranean, like a mermaid.
Good evening, Maggie.
- Hello, Mrs.
Gale.
The usual? - Yes, thank you.
- Good evening, Mrs.
Gale.
- Hello.
What about a game of darts? No, I'm afraid I've got to catch the shops, but I shall be back, and I'll be very happy to give you a game then.
- Right, I'll get my eye in.
- Good.
Oh, come on.
Come here.
- There's a good boy.
- Hello, Linda.
I thought I told you not to come here anymore.
Hello, doggie.
Whose dog is it? I don't know, it just wandered in.
- You collect strays.
- Uh, I'm sorry.
- I hope he didn't disturb you.
- No, it's quite all right.
- Here you are.
- Thank you.
- Afternoon.
- Good afternoon.
Linda.
You don't believe I was working last night? I don't care, you had a date with me, and you broke it for the third time running.
Well, I'll make it up to you.
How about going into town tonight and seeing a film? I'm tired of that flea pit.
Everything around here is so old-fashioned.
Why don't they show some decent films? I see, you're still yearning for the gay life - and the bright lights, are you? - Why not? Well, I don't intend to stay in this place all my life, and I'm saving every penny I can to get out of here.
And where do you get the pennies to save? - Oh, wouldn't you like to know? - Yes, I would.
Linda, if you're in some kind of trouble I wish you'd tell me what it is.
- I think you ought to mind your own business.
- Oh, Linda.
I can look after myself, thank you.
Leave me alone.
- Oh, don't be so stupid.
- I told you, leave me alone.
All right, if you change your mind, you know where I am.
Have you seen Crane today? Just for a moment this morning, sir.
He's suffering from acute depression.
Well, that's only to be expected under the circumstances.
Tell me, um, have you been able to come to any conclusion as to whether he's lying or not? It's impossible yet.
What might your own professional opinion be, sir? Why do you want to know? Oh, I don't know.
I like Crane, he's a nice fellow.
It would be rather embarrassing if we'd arrested the wrong man.
That's why I can't give an opinion, professional, - or unprofessional.
- Yes.
- Ah, there's the man.
- Good evening, sir.
- Good evening, Graham.
- Something I forgot, sorry to mention it at this late hour, - my report, old boy, - Oh, yeah, sure.
But I couldn't remember if I've mentioned it.
It is all under control, don't worry.
Well, I particularly wanted the captain to read it, - you know, by tomorrow.
- Will you leave it to me.
What was all that about, Mellors? - Oh, just wanted to review the report, sir.
- Oh, I see.
And where are you off to at this hour? I have a small piece of unfinished business - in the village.
- Oh, have you? Well, don't keep up all night, will you? Well, If you'll excuse me, Steed, I have to go, a pile of work - Of course, yes, sir.
- Come down here whenever you like.
Make yourself at home.
We're very pleased to see you, - even if you are an admiralty headshrinker.
- Oh.
- Good night.
- Good night.
You care for a game, sir? - There's nothing on the board.
- Thank you very much.
I'm extremely rusty, but, anyway, here goes.
How's your patient? Crane? Oh, Crane.
- Um, he's pretty cheerful.
- What do you think of him? - Are you a friend of his? - Yes.
He's the only real friend I ever had.
We lived only a mile apart when we were kids, but we never met until we joined the services.
It's a funny world, isn't it? When you know him better, you'll realize Crane could never have done this.
- I wouldn't take it too personally.
- Why not? Crane and I were like brothers.
Don't ask me why, it's just that now he's in trouble, I've got to do something.
I know he's innocent.
Look, I discovered that there are two other channels by which the information could be passed.
I put it all down in my report.
When the captain reads that, he'll have no alternative.
No alternative whatsoever.
- I think it was my turn, old boy.
- Hmm? Oh, I'm sorry.
Are we playing billiards or snooker? Snooker.
Billiards has three balls.
- Can I buy you drink? - I think I've had enough.
A good walk in the open air.
Good night, bye.
Good night.
Telephone call for you, Mr.
Rankin.
Oh, thank you, Maggie.
Hello? Oh, it's you is it? I thought I told you not to Never mind, there's no need to panic.
We can't talk about it on the telephone.
You better come round here and explain everything straightaway, right.
Hello, yes.
Oh, it's Rankin here.
I've just had a phone call from a friend of mine at HMS Zebra.
He seems to have ran into a spot of trouble.
Yes, I think that we might have to Yes, all right, I'll leave that to you.
He's coming here by car and should arrive in about 10 minutes.
Right, right.
Listen, we'll leave it like this, if he comes out alone, you'll know why.
It's Graham, he sent in a report.
He didn't mention my name but he points out two ways - in which the metals could have been known.
- My dear boy.
It's not enough to show what might have happened, you've got to prove that it did, and who can? - Does he mention any names? - No.
Well, then, there's no need to panic, is there? I can't go on like this.
It's too risky.
I came to tell you that I'm through.
Huh, I'm afraid they're not going to like this at all.
In fact, the skipper is going to be most upset.
I've heard too much about this blasted skipper.
Who is he anyway? You tell me who he is, and I'll do my own explaining to him.
- Now go on tell me, who is he? - Don't lose your head.
Go back to the station now.
Then make an appointment to meet me here the day after tomorrow.
In the meantime, don't look so guilty.
If you walk out of here looking like that, they're bound to suspect something.
All right.
- Good night.
- Good night.
- Goodbye.
- Cathy: Good night.
(engine starts) - Mrs.
Gale? - Yes? My name is Franks.
I run the Acorn Chronicle.
I hope my reporter didn't bother you.
- No, not at all.
- Will you have drink? Sorry, I couldn't be of more help.
No, I won't right now, thank you.
Shocking business, wasn't it? I've already spoken to the police.
They're completely baffled, except for the motive was apparently robbery.
- Oh, was it? - Yes, his wallet was taken.
They're saying up at the station that he never carried much about with him.
His attacker evidently didn't know that.
There's a lot of outside labor about at the moment.
Pretty violent way to rob a man, surely.
Possibly, but anyway, to change the subject, what do you think of our little community? I expect it seems a little backward after London.
(chuckles) You must forgive me, I have to find out these things, It's only a country paper, but we like to keep awake.
Have you seen much of the town? No, I'm afraid I've been kept rather busy.
I'd like to show it to you, if I may.
- That's very kind of you.
- How about tomorrow? Sunday's probably a good day for us both.
- Yes, it's fine.
- I'll call for you here and give you a noggin, and then we'll do our tour.
You might even care to see the old Acorn Chronicle offices.
It's a good example of a family newspaper, even though it's not my family.
Have you lived here long? Long enough to know better, and that's a fact.
No, no I mustn't grumble.
I have fun here.
I suppose you know everybody for miles around.
And if I don't, it means they must lead a pretty dull life.
Ah, good morning, squire, off the leash again.
Temporarily, yes.
Start as you mean to go on.
About 11:00 then.
And I won't let you off without a drink next time.
- Right.
- I'll be seeing you.
Mm.
You're always safe with a pipe smoker.
I'll let you know.
He asked me if I'd like to see over his newspaper offices.
- I said I would.
- Oh, really? Hello, Maggie.
Keep your eyes open, we haven't got much time.
I've discovered one thing.
The only way to discover the formula of the ruby after it's made unless Thorne is the leak is to get a look at the top-secret list of its components that he sends to the admiralty.
Well, the new ruby's finished, so if there's gonna be leak it's already happened.
I suppose Mellors could be the leak, but if he was working for them, why did they kill him? Apparently, the police think it was an outside laborer.
- Who told you that? - Franks.
Was Franks here when you saw Mellors? - No, not Franks, I'm positive.
- Who then? Well, there were so many people, I can't remember anyone in particular.
Oh, except that artist character.
- Rankin? - He and Mellors were playing cards.
It all seemed perfectly normal.
Hmm, got all sorts of pieces and they don't fit together.
All we've got to find is the link.
That's it, slowly.
Full extension.
That's fine.
Ready sir.
She's a beauty this time.
Perfect grain, yes.
Let's hope she gets a free run.
Other side, that's it.
Easy, Graham.
Right, sir.
Report to me when you've made the final check.
- Well, sir, everything's ready.
- Splendid.
We'll calibrate over the weekend and try the real thing on Monday.
Better not boob this time either.
We're six weeks behind schedule as we are.
Thorne: Oh, good morning, sir.
- Good morning, Richard.
All set.
- Yes, I think so.
Well, let's hope there's no trouble this time.
The undersecretary of state for defense is coming down this weekend to watch.
It will depend on his report whether or not we take part in the NATO exercises at the end of the month.
Queer how they never tried to jam our trials.
Only when we pick up the satellite.
International one-upmanship, trying to prove that they're in complete control of the situation.
Still, this time is gonna to be different.
- Why? - Because Professor Thorne has a new crystal and a new frequency, both of which are unknown outside this establishment.
Only if you assume the culprit has been caught.
- Oh, pipe down, Graham.
- I apologize, sir.
I should've thought the death of Lieutenant Mellors made it pretty obvious.
You can't be sure that what happened to Mellors has any bearing on this case.
Because you think Crane is guilty.
Look, Graham, I know how you feel.
I feel pretty unhappy about this business myself.
I've always thought of Crane as a very promising young officer, - but, no, the facts - Circumstantial evidence.
There are facts which seem to suggest that he's been giving information to the enemy.
No one outside HMS Zebra knows what's happened.
Most of the personnel here thinks that he's confined to his quarters with an attack of measles.
By keeping the matter secret, we hope that someone will give themselves away.
So if the transmission with the new crystal is jammed on Monday, it will prove that information could not have been passed out by Sub-Lieutenant Crane, unless of course, he broke from close arrest for the purpose.
We'll see, we'll see.
Well, what do you think of it? Oh, it's a fascinating place.
I'd love to see it in full swing.
Oh, the staff don't come in until the afternoon on Sundays.
I thought you'd prefer to see it without the bods.
We can hear ourselves think for a change.
You must be very proud of all of this.
I won't deny that.
Was it pride that made you ask me to come and see it? Do I really need to answer that? You're a very attractive woman, Cathy.
Thank you.
A gorgeous view.
You can see for miles.
You get rather used to that I'm afraid.
I hadn't realized how high up we are.
Surely that's part of HMS Zebra there across the valley, isn't it? That must the roof of the control room.
I believe so.
I am more interested in the bar, myself.
Have you never seen over the station? It's a fascinating place.
Frankly, I'm too well-aware of what we owe to the services to try and poke my nose in.
Doesn't news come first? Even a newspaper man can have principles.
- Yes, of course.
- (telephone rings) Excuse me, dear lady.
Well, have you seen enough? Have you seen enough to convince you? Convince me of what, Mr.
Franks? That it's worth spending thrupence a week on our little paper.
Oh, thank you, Maggie.
Oh you're all dressed up.
That's a very pretty hat.
Where are you going, chapel? Chapel.
Oh, no, it's my evening off.
I have every other Sunday free and sometimes Tom takes the bar over in the evening so I can get some fresh air.
- Milk? - Yes, please.
Where do you go? Usually to see a girlfriend, Linda.
- She keeps her father's sweet shop just up the road.
- I've seen it.
But it can't be much fun for you young things - around here, is it? - You're telling me.
I'm getting out of it just as soon as I can.
You're quite right, spirit of adventure.
I like to see it.
Hello, Mrs.
Gale.
- Fruitful? - Not very.
I'm not sure I didn't make a complete fool of myself.
Oh, dear, really? What do you make of this? "20 x 175.
" Well, nothing at the moment.
We've had proof that the jamming is local.
- How local? - 10 miles of Zebra.
There's a second transmitter, of the stiletto type which may or may not be ready to jam our transmissions.
Is there nothing you can do? Not till tomorrow's demonstration.
I suppose anybody with a certain amount of technical knowledge could know when the Navy starts tracking satellite gamma.
Yeah, they'd know when it was in the area.
It's a very well-behaved satellite.
I wish we could get you into the control room tomorrow.
I think that's pushing the uses of psychiatry even beyond Nash's credulity.
Where did you find this? In a wastepaper basket in Franks' office.
Huh, looks like a dart's score.
Well, Why would he have it? It's the only pub for eight miles and I've never seen him playing here.
Who are the regulars? Oh, a few of the locals, old Thomas.
Rankin occasionally.
Oh, Mellors used to Mellors? I don't think you made a fool of yourself at all.
Two ounces of the mixture please, and a quarter of the usual.
Something wrong, Cathy? Yes.
I'm bored, and I want more money.
If you want me to do all this, you got to pay for it, you know.
All this? A dog comes in here once in a while, you take a piece of paper, pass it on to me, you don't know where it comes from, what it signifies.
I'd say that's easy money.
Well, I know the dog belongs to that crazy artist, if he is an artist, and I also know that you're very anxious to get the paper.
Now so far I've kept the information to myself, but I bet it's worth more than 20 pounds for it to stay that way.
- You've forgotten something.
- Have I? In order to use all this money and go somewhere where your beauty and talents will be appreciated, you've got to be alive.
- You ready, Cathy? - Yes, just about.
I hope all goes well for you today, Ken.
Which way do I take that? Oh, yes, I suppose your loyalties are a bit divided.
Yes, naturally, I want the test to succeed, but if we do get jammed again, it will prove once and for all that Sub-Lieutenant Crane is not guilty.
Quite.
Shall we go in? Ah, there you are.
Time to get started.
- Our visitors will be here in a minute.
- Ready when you are.
All right, I'll take over now.
How long to go? About two minutes, sir, she's frightfully punctual.
I hope the excitement doesn't prove too much for you, Graham? Nothing showing so far, sir.
Oh, gentlemen, this is Dick Thorne, he's in charge of the program.
He said he'd have a talk later on.
- Give her 60 seconds.
- Right, sir.
- Thorne: Has the trace been clear? - Yes, sir.
Watch for the bearings.
If they're steady, it's a good crystal.
- Shall I check the beam? - Please, once she settles down.
- Anything on the PPI? - Not yet, sir.
There may be some static interference when we pick it up at first, sir, then the signal should get stronger over the next minute, reaching maximum intensity then.
Unless we get jammed.
(machinery whirs) There's something.
What's that? Thorne: That's gamma all right, it should get stronger over the next 60 seconds.
Thorne: There you are.
That's better.
That's fine isn't it? That's the best I've ever seen it.
I really believe you've done it this time, Thorne.
I really believe you have.
Let's just wait until we reach maximum intensity, if we get past that, then we've really done something.
Graham: Maximum signal coming up in five seconds, starting now.
Four, three, two, one.
Thorne: Blast it! Switch the selector.
Damp it.
Try a second radial.
Hold the sensitivity, man! - Hold it! - All right, all right.
- They've done it again, sir.
- Not so fast, look, it's clearing.
No, that always happens.
They're just showing us they can do what they like when they like.
And we'll never find out where it's coming from.
No, because we're dealing with a controlled microwave.
Direction timing just doesn't work.
I'm sorry, gentlemen.
Oh, it's not your fault, Dick.
Let's you up to my office and have a drink.
I'm sure you can do with one.
This way, gentlemen, please.
Cigarette, Cathy? Thank you.
You know, I feel quite sorry for Nash.
It must be embarrassing having the undersecretary peering over your shoulder.
I feel more sorry for Thorne.
He must be bitterly disappointed.
Yes, but at least this proves Sub-Lieutenant Crane - is not guilty.
- Yes.
It does look pretty conclusive.
Of course, I had a few worried moments, but when lieutenant Mellors was murdered well, I I knew Crane couldn't be guilty.
Have you any idea why Mellors was killed? He probably read my report.
Oh? What was in it? Well, I didn't mention any names, nothing as open as that.
I just hinted how the ingredients in the rubies could've been discovered by people other than Crane.
Have you any idea who Mellors - could've passed the information on to? - No.
Have you? I cleared that matter with the police.
They're convinced the motive was robbery.
Poor Mellors, he was good officer, had his faults, but don't we all? Wouldn't be human if we hadn't.
If it's all right by you, I'd like to publish the facts - in next week's edition.
- Oh, yes, that's quite all right.
If he hadn't been killed in the village, - I could've kept it out altogether.
- Quite so.
I do appreciate your consideration in this matter.
(telephone rings) Wardroom.
Who? I can't hear you.
Yes, I believe he is.
Hold on a minute.
- Mr.
Graham.
- Yes? Excuse me.
Oh, Graham, you mind tell your girlfriends we don't encourage personal calls here.
Graham here.
Oh, hello.
- I've got to see you tonight.
- Sure, what time? I've got to get dad supper, Say 9:00? All right.
What's the trouble? It's about a dog.
I can't tell you now except you're right.
- You will come, won't you? - Yes, of course.
Well, I hope she's a little bit more presentable than the last one, Graham.
No, sir, she wants to talk to me about a dog.
Well, I must be on my way.
Oh, won't you stay to dinner? I'd love to, but I'm afraid duty calls.
Oh, dear.
He seems to be in a better mood tonight.
Oh, he's all over the place.
I wouldn't judge the Navy by that young gentleman.
We were all young once, I suppose.
Well, it's been a very pleasant noggin.
My dear fellow, any time.
You've forgotten your beer.
Hmm? Oh, thanks.
When you see her, don't take no for answer.
No, I won't.
- Good night.
- Good night.
Oh, Mr.
Frank.
Good evening to you, sir.
- Do you care for a game, sir? - What'll be tonight then? - Snooker or billiards? - Snooker or bil snooker, sir.
Come on, set them up.
Will you be seeing Michael tomorrow, sir? - Eh? - Crane.
Probably.
I wonder if you'd give him a message for me.
Yes, of course.
I wonder if you'd tell him that I think I'm onto some Steed: What's the matter, Graham? Graham! Steward! Quick give me a hand! (knock on door) Man: Anybody home? I've got a message for you from Graham.
- What is it? What's the matter? - Graham was delayed, he asked for you to give me the message.
- You go! I'll call myself.
- What were you gonna tell him? - It was personal.
- Whose dog is it? - What dog? - I don't know anything about any dog! - Yes, you do.
- Let me go! Now look, Graham is dead.
He's been murdered.
Now who owned that dog? I don't know.
I don't know.
- It belongs to Rankin the artist.
- Go on.
He doesn't come in himself, he sends a dog with a message in its collar.
- What messages? What do they say? - I don't know.
- I don't have to read them.
- What do you do? - I can't tell you.
- Who to? - Who to? - Oh, he'd kill me.
- Man: Linda? - Just coming! Lock the door.
Oh, you're too good for me, Mrs.
Gale.
Too much practice I'm afraid.
Maggie: There's one thing, though, I won't touch a dart when I get to London.
You're very keen to get away, aren't you, Maggie? - Well, wouldn't you be? - Yes, I dare say, but I wouldn't be in too much of a hurry if I were you.
London can be pretty lonely, you know, all by yourself.
Don't finish Maggie, carry on.
- Graham's been murdered.
- How? He was poisoned with nicotine, I think.
Have you seen Mr.
Rankin, Maggie? Oh, he's taking his dog for a walk, sir.
He does every evening.
Excuse me.
Get up to his room and have a look around, quick.
Rankin, right.
You take my turn, eh? Uh-huh.
Maggie, if Mr.
Rankin comes in before I get back, keep him down here, will you? Give him a drink, chat him up a bit.
You know how to do that, don't you? Yes, quite successful.
We can't continue to operate from here much longer.
Things are hotting up.
I had to get rid of Graham.
Tonight.
When are the NATO exercises due to start? I see.
Yes.
And without Mellors, there's not much else we can do.
Tonight then? Right, good-bye.
Nice walk, Mr.
Rankin? Oh yes, thank you, Maggie.
Would like a little whisky before you go up? On the house.
- You look a bit cold.
- Do I really? Well that's very nice of you, Maggie.
Thank you very much, Maggie.
Oh, you want the other half don't you? No, thanks, I've got some work to do.
I was just thinking, there's not much point in going to bed at this hour, is there? There's such a thing as having too much sleep, don't you think? Oh, very probably, but I must do some work.
If I were you, Mr.
Rankin, I'd have another game of darts and relax.
Then you'll be fresh to do your work in the morning.
No, I shall be all right.
Thank you, Maggie.
Bye-bye.
Mr.
Steed, he's gone up.
I couldn't keep him any longer.
Steed: Thank you, Maggie.
Oh.
(Chuckles) Hey, look, where's Rankin? I don't know? Has he come back? Maggie said he'd come up here.
Maggie, I thought you said Mr.
Rankin had come up here.
- He went out again, sir.
- Do you know where? I think I know where.
After you.
Sorry.
Ladies first.
(knock on door) Franks, Franks they're here, they're coming.
They'll send for the police.
They're bound to.
Stop blabbing.
What happened? It's Steed and the Gale woman, she was in my room.
- She may have found something.
- What could she possibly have found? There's nothing on paper connecting you and me.
- Was there? - No, of course not.
Then what makes you think they'll come here? Well, they might have talked to Linda.
I think Linda knows better than to give anybody my name.
Yes, but what are we going to do? We've still got to ensure that the HMS Zebra doesn't take part in the NATO exercises.
Look, look, there are headlights coming over the bridge.
Let them come.
We'll prepare a little reception for them.
No thanks, not me.
I came here to warn you.
That's all.
I need you, Rankin! What is all this? Franks, you can't keep me here, Franks, you can't.
You've only seen Patsy when she's lined up on the Navy.
What good is that going to be? They aren't going to be stopped by a beam of light.
They are by this one.
Patsy can stop any living creature - with blood in its veins.
- What? Anybody who steps into Patsy's beam will have their body temperature raised to 350 degrees centigrade.
Their blood would coagulate on the spot.
Yes, and the police are soon going to know why, aren't they? Long before the police can sort out the cause of death, this apparatus will be dismantled and destroyed.
Of course our central committee have strong views on people who leave evidence lying about or who talk.
Agh! No That door was locked the last time I was here.
Stay there.
Come on.
Oh, that's pretty neat, small enough to be maneuverable and powerful enough to jam anything within about 10 miles.
Provided you know how to switch on the light.
- HMS Zebra, isn't it? - Could be.
Yes, look there's the laboratory, - and that's the control room.
- Yes.
Steed: Well, the birds have flown.
Only one of them, I'm afraid.
- Do you think Franks did this? - Presumably.
Mellors and Rankin dead.
And us, he thinks.
What's his next move? Don't move, Thorne.
Franks, what what You'll find out soon enough.
Pity you had to work late tonight.
Anyone in the control room? Open the door! Right.
(ticking) (grunts) Get up.
In there.
You all right, Thorne? Yes, yes, I'm all right.
Where is it? (ticking) Dismantle it.
How soon will it go off? - Five minutes.
- Oh.
Dismantle it.
You'll never get it off.
Those things are made to stick.
Mm-hmm, I see.
- Well, do you want your head blown off? - Don't, don't touch that! I'm not going to, don't worry.
Mr.
Franks is going to, um, diffuse it.
I don't think that's very likely.
All right, we'll do it.
They work on a combination of numbers, like a safe.
- It'll take us hours.
- Get out of here.
Sound the alarm.
- Well what about you? - I'll join you in a moment.
Quick, you're valuable.
Don't you consider yourself valuable, Mr.
Steed? By my reckoning, it's two minutes, 40 seconds you've got.
Do I? If you change your mind, let me know.
You better shout loud, I may be some way away.
You're not gonna leave me here! They're very fine things those bombs, you know.
It may not kill you, just mess you up a bit.
No! Let me out, let me out! Nash: Bomb? - In there.
- With Franks? - How long have we got? - Get him out.
- You can't let him blow himself up.
- He won't.
(alarm bell clanging) - You better leave.
- You can't risk it.
50 seconds, Franks.
- You better go, Mrs.
Gale.
- You can't leave him in there.
Go on.
Let me out! I can't hear you, you'll have to shout louder.
- Let me out!! - 30 seconds.
Oh! Oh, no! All right, Steed.
All right, clear.
Come in.
Well, I must say, Steed, I didn't share your confidence.
However, you considerably raised my opinion of psychiatrists, and I'm sure Sub-Lieutenant Crane would support that view.
- Let's go and tell him.
- May we? - Yes, yes, of course.
- I think you better do that.
He'd never believe me.
I think that's your baby, that little one there, Commander.
Thank you.
(theme music playing)
Man: All right, Williams, bring him in.
Sub-Lieutenant Crane, sir.
Sub-Lieutenant Crane, I have to inform you that as a result of a recent court of inquiry the commander in chief has issued instructions that you be held under close arrest to appear before a court martial to be convened at this station.
The charge is that you did, on several unspecified dates during the last six months, pass on information of a top secret nature to a person or persons unknown.
If you have a defense, Crane, I hope it's a good one? It is sir.
I am not guilty.
All right, carry on.
Oh, good morning, I'm Commander Steed.
I believe you have a room for me.
Oh, yes, sir.
It's all ready.
Oh, I think I'll have a small drink first.
- I've been driving the whole morning.
- What would like, sir? I'll have a large gin, please.
- Large gin.
- Pink.
- Morning.
- Man: Morning.
Oh, good morning.
- Good morning.
- Oh, Mrs.
Gale.
She's working at that naval place down here.
I suppose you'll be going there, too.
Yes, I am, for a few days.
Uh, may I offer you a drink, Mrs.
Gale? Thank you, Commander, I'll have a gin and tonic.
- Why the fancy dress? - I'm a service psychiatrist Temporary, short term commission, acting unpaid, present attached to admiralty.
I think it rather suits me, don't you? Admirably, but you don't keep your hat on between decks.
Oh, well, what's the set up? They have a very fine laboratory.
They're quite satisfied with my work, and in one week I've discovered absolutely nothing.
Nothing? Are you quite sure I'm not wasting my time here? I'd much rather be in Tehran doing relief work.
I thought you were interested in helping Sub-Lieutenant Crane? You found out nothing, whatever? Nobody's even mentioned his name.
- You're quite certain he's still there? - He's there all right.
He's confined to his cabin under close arrest.
They've developed at HMS Zebra a system which may be of absolutely beneficial importance to our defense system.
The enemy knows that.
They've developed a system for jamming those transmissions, and Crane is supposed to have given them the information to do this.
- But we think he was framed.
- It's possible.
Anyway, we're keeping him locked up until the next test transmission.
If that's unsuccessful, then we know that he's not responsible.
Yes, but for how long? You can't keep him locked up indefinitely.
Don't think it'll be for long.
I suppose he's safer in than out.
Until our equipment is safe from jamming, the prototype can't be put into production.
The final test is during the NATO exercises at the end of the month.
It's a bad road at weekends, too.
There was a traffic jam almost two miles long last Saturday.
Well then, I think I'll keep off it.
Will you put that on the bill, young lady? - Yes, sir.
- I think I better drink up.
Got to report to the Wardroom at 2:00.
Do you think they'll pipe you aboard? (marching footsteps) - Commander Steed.
- Leave us please.
- Hello.
- Hello, sir.
Sit down, won't you? - How do you feel? - How do you think? How would you feel? Just relax and answer my questions.
What do you want? Just a friendly chat.
- I'm not mad, you know? - Nobody said you were.
Then why are you here? I told you, I want to talk to you.
- Don't you want to talk? - No.
All right, then, I'll do the talking.
You do that, doctor.
The Navy had developed the finest unit for tracking enemy missiles and satellites in the world.
Now this transmitter is operated by a ruby crystal.
The formula is a top secret.
The fact that it could be jammed means that an enemy agent knew the formulas, otherwise they wouldn't have be able to build the machine to jam it.
Now someone in this unit - is passing out the information, you? - No.
A complete list of the metals was found in your cabin, a copy of the formula and the calibration graphs.
And a dictionary and travel brochure which proved that I was planning to take my next leave - in a certain foreign country.
- Were you? - No.
- Then why did you buy the dictionary? I never saw it before.
Three witnesses at the court of inquiry said you repeatedly expressed your admiration.
All I said was that the government of this country could learn a thing or two about efficiency.
That's your opinion.
How much are they paying you? Who is your contact? Now if you tell me the truth, I can help you.
If you lie to me, I can't do anything.
Well, if you really want to know, they deposited a million dollars for me in a bank in Honolulu.
I have a beautiful black dancing girl waiting for me.
It'll only be 15 years.
Why did you, on several occasions, stay behind in the control room after the others had gone? Because I wanted to learn something about my job.
- Or was it to memorize the formula? - No.
- Which you afterwards typed out on your own typewriter.
- No.
- I think you're lying! - That's not true! I believe that you were approached because of your known political sympathies.
But gradually, bit by bit, you got so involved you couldn't get out of it, because they'd paid you too much and because you were afraid.
- That's not true.
- I think it is! I didn't do it! I gave no information whatever to anyone! Whose side are you on? Yours.
Williams is an officer of the watch, isn't he? - Saturday, yes, sir.
- Has Steed arrived yet? - Oh, yes, sir.
- Don't drown it, please.
He saw Crane after lunch, sir, and then went out again.
He wanted to see you but you were over - in the control room most of the afternoon.
- Mm.
- Shall we go along and see how the others are getting on? - Yes, sir.
Man on P.
A.
: Will Lieutenant Commander Scott pick up the telephone at the porter's desk, please? Will Lieutenant Commander Scott pick up the telephone at the porter's desk, please? What are you looking so gloomy about, Graham? Oh, we had a bit of trouble with the computer, sir.
Don't talk shop in the Wardroom, least of all when it's our social evening.
- Do you have a head of security? - Don't worry about me.
I've signed the official secrets act.
- There's Commander Steed now, sir.
- Oh, good.
- Commander Steed, Nash, here.
- How do you do, sir? How do you do? Welcome to Zebra.
Do you care to drink? - Yes, I'd like a gin, thank you.
- Uh, steward.
Did you have a nice trip down? Bit foggy out of London, plain sailing after that.
Good, now let's see, you are staying at the Glendower Arms aren't you? If you have any complaints, you kick my secretary.
- How do you do? - Hello, sir.
Oh, let me introduce you.
Now this is Joe Franks, he's the local press baron.
Commander Steed, the headshrinker - from the admiralty.
- Hello there.
And this is Dick Thorne, our chief egghead around here, - on loan to us from Malvern.
- How do you do? You might show Commander Steed round your box of tricks, tomorrow, Dick, not that he'll understand it.
Not a chance.
- I'd be delighted.
- Thank you.
Oh, and this is Sub-Lieutenant Graham, a very serious scientist.
- How do you do? - How do you do, sir? Come along, Mellors, organize some drinks for our guest.
- Oh, yes, sir.
- Social evening, you know, Steed.
Once a month, we invite all our civilian friends up for a game and a drink.
Mustn't lose contact, you know.
Nice to meet another stranger from outer space Mr.
Steed.
- You staying long? - Just a few days.
Someone here in need of a psychiatrist? None that I know of.
Well, Mr.
Steed, what sort of treatment do you specialize in? The sort that gets results.
Can we have the same again, please, Maggie.
Of course, Mr.
Rankin.
Who's winning? Oh, Thomas as usual.
My eye's not in yet really.
Actually, I'm the worst darts player in the world.
Still, it's jolly good fun.
Now take something for yourself, won't you Maggie.
Thank you, Mr.
Rankin.
I'll have a lager with my supper, if I may? Mustn't have too much on an empty stomach.
Hello, Linda, thought you were going out tonight.
Couldn't come, had to write a report or something.
Anyway, I'm tired of him.
Plays darts and beer, that's all he ever thinks of.
Don't tell me, I'm sick of the same old faces.
Never mind, though, another few weeks, we'll be out of this hole forever.
How's the saving? - 85 pounds so far, and you? - 60 odd.
This will be the 20th time I've had to empty him, another 15 pounds should be enough, then the bright lights.
This is one little piggy that's not going to stay at home.
Graham: Slash it.
That's too much, bring it up.
Be gentle, you're not trying to throttle someone.
This is what we call our main control room, Commander.
There's a transmitter up the top with another dish like that one out there.
In there, there's a computer which does all the quick thinking for us and this is where it all comes out.
- I'm not clear, really, what it is you transmit.
- Light.
A specially manufactured ruby is inserted into a tube.
Then we spot light down the tube, the light beam bounces off some object miles up in the sky and, well, we know what the enemy had for breakfast.
What's the advantage over radar? Oh, far more powerful and accurate.
And the light beams are as ordered and controllable as the rays sent out by ordinary radio valves.
Distance here you see.
Distance in hundreds, height in tens.
You see for yourself, she's about a hundred miles up and, oh, 1,500 away.
She's an instrument capsule to test the upper atmosphere.
It's been in orbit about a year now.
Trouble is we know exactly where to look so it's all too easy.
Steed: If you know where she is, why do you have to track her? Thorne: Oh, just for practice, in case there was anything flying around that we really wanted to know about.
- So it is a sort of radar.
- Sort of, sort of.
The the width and frequency of the beam depends on the presence of minute quantities of certain metals, metals such as chromium, niobium and titanium.
These are mixed with carbon and fused over a white-hot flame until we get growth of ruby.
I can show you the lab if you like, if you're not already too bored with all this, sir.
Just baffled.
Back in a moment.
Aye, aye sir.
Now this is the lab, Commander.
Here is where we make the powders for the actual ruby.
The powder as well as manufacture of that is well-known.
It's what we put with them that counts.
These are code names for some of the stuff we use.
- Are you much of a chemist? - Bottom of the class.
Ah, you might find this more interesting.
Here's where we actually make the crystals.
We do quite a lot just for practice.
My new assistant, from Malvern.
- Hello.
- How do you do? Steed: Can women really do this sort of thing? Thorne: Oh, yes, under careful supervision.
Dr.
Gale, would you mind showing the commander exactly what you're doing? - Yes, of course.
- If you'll excuse me.
You're not frightened of burning your fingers, eh? - What woman would be for a ruby this size? - Ah.
Anyway, you can control the flame quite easily here.
Here you can see the beginning of the synthetic growth and the flow of powder is regulated by that trembler here.
I've just heard something.
They're going to have a new test transmission with a new frequency on a new satellite next week.
That looks like sugar.
Has the new frequency settled? - Yes, this morning.
- The ruby? Thorne made it himself without help.
Could anyone find out what the mixture was before - or would it have to be after? - I'm not sure.
Thorne: Okay in a moment, Steed? When you are.
Find out, it's vital.
- Could it be Thorne? - Possibly.
How long does it take to line up the transmitter? Two or three days.
If someone's gonna jam next week's transmission, it has to be done pretty quickly and they have to know the formula, maybe tonight.
Well, any the wiser? - I'm gonna stick to psychiatry.
- Good idea.
Well, I don't know if that gives you a rough idea Can't you find anyone to play with, Mr.
Mellor? - Uh, just practicing.
- Shall I ask them over there? Uh, no thanks, Maggie, not tonight.
Maggie: Good evening, Mr.
Rankin.
Oh, good evening, Maggie.
I haven't seen you with your paint box lately.
What's the matter, have you lost your inspiration? There's no light in this cold valley, Maggie.
You got to go south where the sun burns into the earth and brings out the living colors.
Well, I've only ever been as far south as Swansea, myself, but if you want someone to carry your paint box.
One day, Maggie I'll paint you cavorting in the Mediterranean, like a mermaid.
Good evening, Maggie.
- Hello, Mrs.
Gale.
The usual? - Yes, thank you.
- Good evening, Mrs.
Gale.
- Hello.
What about a game of darts? No, I'm afraid I've got to catch the shops, but I shall be back, and I'll be very happy to give you a game then.
- Right, I'll get my eye in.
- Good.
Oh, come on.
Come here.
- There's a good boy.
- Hello, Linda.
I thought I told you not to come here anymore.
Hello, doggie.
Whose dog is it? I don't know, it just wandered in.
- You collect strays.
- Uh, I'm sorry.
- I hope he didn't disturb you.
- No, it's quite all right.
- Here you are.
- Thank you.
- Afternoon.
- Good afternoon.
Linda.
You don't believe I was working last night? I don't care, you had a date with me, and you broke it for the third time running.
Well, I'll make it up to you.
How about going into town tonight and seeing a film? I'm tired of that flea pit.
Everything around here is so old-fashioned.
Why don't they show some decent films? I see, you're still yearning for the gay life - and the bright lights, are you? - Why not? Well, I don't intend to stay in this place all my life, and I'm saving every penny I can to get out of here.
And where do you get the pennies to save? - Oh, wouldn't you like to know? - Yes, I would.
Linda, if you're in some kind of trouble I wish you'd tell me what it is.
- I think you ought to mind your own business.
- Oh, Linda.
I can look after myself, thank you.
Leave me alone.
- Oh, don't be so stupid.
- I told you, leave me alone.
All right, if you change your mind, you know where I am.
Have you seen Crane today? Just for a moment this morning, sir.
He's suffering from acute depression.
Well, that's only to be expected under the circumstances.
Tell me, um, have you been able to come to any conclusion as to whether he's lying or not? It's impossible yet.
What might your own professional opinion be, sir? Why do you want to know? Oh, I don't know.
I like Crane, he's a nice fellow.
It would be rather embarrassing if we'd arrested the wrong man.
That's why I can't give an opinion, professional, - or unprofessional.
- Yes.
- Ah, there's the man.
- Good evening, sir.
- Good evening, Graham.
- Something I forgot, sorry to mention it at this late hour, - my report, old boy, - Oh, yeah, sure.
But I couldn't remember if I've mentioned it.
It is all under control, don't worry.
Well, I particularly wanted the captain to read it, - you know, by tomorrow.
- Will you leave it to me.
What was all that about, Mellors? - Oh, just wanted to review the report, sir.
- Oh, I see.
And where are you off to at this hour? I have a small piece of unfinished business - in the village.
- Oh, have you? Well, don't keep up all night, will you? Well, If you'll excuse me, Steed, I have to go, a pile of work - Of course, yes, sir.
- Come down here whenever you like.
Make yourself at home.
We're very pleased to see you, - even if you are an admiralty headshrinker.
- Oh.
- Good night.
- Good night.
You care for a game, sir? - There's nothing on the board.
- Thank you very much.
I'm extremely rusty, but, anyway, here goes.
How's your patient? Crane? Oh, Crane.
- Um, he's pretty cheerful.
- What do you think of him? - Are you a friend of his? - Yes.
He's the only real friend I ever had.
We lived only a mile apart when we were kids, but we never met until we joined the services.
It's a funny world, isn't it? When you know him better, you'll realize Crane could never have done this.
- I wouldn't take it too personally.
- Why not? Crane and I were like brothers.
Don't ask me why, it's just that now he's in trouble, I've got to do something.
I know he's innocent.
Look, I discovered that there are two other channels by which the information could be passed.
I put it all down in my report.
When the captain reads that, he'll have no alternative.
No alternative whatsoever.
- I think it was my turn, old boy.
- Hmm? Oh, I'm sorry.
Are we playing billiards or snooker? Snooker.
Billiards has three balls.
- Can I buy you drink? - I think I've had enough.
A good walk in the open air.
Good night, bye.
Good night.
Telephone call for you, Mr.
Rankin.
Oh, thank you, Maggie.
Hello? Oh, it's you is it? I thought I told you not to Never mind, there's no need to panic.
We can't talk about it on the telephone.
You better come round here and explain everything straightaway, right.
Hello, yes.
Oh, it's Rankin here.
I've just had a phone call from a friend of mine at HMS Zebra.
He seems to have ran into a spot of trouble.
Yes, I think that we might have to Yes, all right, I'll leave that to you.
He's coming here by car and should arrive in about 10 minutes.
Right, right.
Listen, we'll leave it like this, if he comes out alone, you'll know why.
It's Graham, he sent in a report.
He didn't mention my name but he points out two ways - in which the metals could have been known.
- My dear boy.
It's not enough to show what might have happened, you've got to prove that it did, and who can? - Does he mention any names? - No.
Well, then, there's no need to panic, is there? I can't go on like this.
It's too risky.
I came to tell you that I'm through.
Huh, I'm afraid they're not going to like this at all.
In fact, the skipper is going to be most upset.
I've heard too much about this blasted skipper.
Who is he anyway? You tell me who he is, and I'll do my own explaining to him.
- Now go on tell me, who is he? - Don't lose your head.
Go back to the station now.
Then make an appointment to meet me here the day after tomorrow.
In the meantime, don't look so guilty.
If you walk out of here looking like that, they're bound to suspect something.
All right.
- Good night.
- Good night.
- Goodbye.
- Cathy: Good night.
(engine starts) - Mrs.
Gale? - Yes? My name is Franks.
I run the Acorn Chronicle.
I hope my reporter didn't bother you.
- No, not at all.
- Will you have drink? Sorry, I couldn't be of more help.
No, I won't right now, thank you.
Shocking business, wasn't it? I've already spoken to the police.
They're completely baffled, except for the motive was apparently robbery.
- Oh, was it? - Yes, his wallet was taken.
They're saying up at the station that he never carried much about with him.
His attacker evidently didn't know that.
There's a lot of outside labor about at the moment.
Pretty violent way to rob a man, surely.
Possibly, but anyway, to change the subject, what do you think of our little community? I expect it seems a little backward after London.
(chuckles) You must forgive me, I have to find out these things, It's only a country paper, but we like to keep awake.
Have you seen much of the town? No, I'm afraid I've been kept rather busy.
I'd like to show it to you, if I may.
- That's very kind of you.
- How about tomorrow? Sunday's probably a good day for us both.
- Yes, it's fine.
- I'll call for you here and give you a noggin, and then we'll do our tour.
You might even care to see the old Acorn Chronicle offices.
It's a good example of a family newspaper, even though it's not my family.
Have you lived here long? Long enough to know better, and that's a fact.
No, no I mustn't grumble.
I have fun here.
I suppose you know everybody for miles around.
And if I don't, it means they must lead a pretty dull life.
Ah, good morning, squire, off the leash again.
Temporarily, yes.
Start as you mean to go on.
About 11:00 then.
And I won't let you off without a drink next time.
- Right.
- I'll be seeing you.
Mm.
You're always safe with a pipe smoker.
I'll let you know.
He asked me if I'd like to see over his newspaper offices.
- I said I would.
- Oh, really? Hello, Maggie.
Keep your eyes open, we haven't got much time.
I've discovered one thing.
The only way to discover the formula of the ruby after it's made unless Thorne is the leak is to get a look at the top-secret list of its components that he sends to the admiralty.
Well, the new ruby's finished, so if there's gonna be leak it's already happened.
I suppose Mellors could be the leak, but if he was working for them, why did they kill him? Apparently, the police think it was an outside laborer.
- Who told you that? - Franks.
Was Franks here when you saw Mellors? - No, not Franks, I'm positive.
- Who then? Well, there were so many people, I can't remember anyone in particular.
Oh, except that artist character.
- Rankin? - He and Mellors were playing cards.
It all seemed perfectly normal.
Hmm, got all sorts of pieces and they don't fit together.
All we've got to find is the link.
That's it, slowly.
Full extension.
That's fine.
Ready sir.
She's a beauty this time.
Perfect grain, yes.
Let's hope she gets a free run.
Other side, that's it.
Easy, Graham.
Right, sir.
Report to me when you've made the final check.
- Well, sir, everything's ready.
- Splendid.
We'll calibrate over the weekend and try the real thing on Monday.
Better not boob this time either.
We're six weeks behind schedule as we are.
Thorne: Oh, good morning, sir.
- Good morning, Richard.
All set.
- Yes, I think so.
Well, let's hope there's no trouble this time.
The undersecretary of state for defense is coming down this weekend to watch.
It will depend on his report whether or not we take part in the NATO exercises at the end of the month.
Queer how they never tried to jam our trials.
Only when we pick up the satellite.
International one-upmanship, trying to prove that they're in complete control of the situation.
Still, this time is gonna to be different.
- Why? - Because Professor Thorne has a new crystal and a new frequency, both of which are unknown outside this establishment.
Only if you assume the culprit has been caught.
- Oh, pipe down, Graham.
- I apologize, sir.
I should've thought the death of Lieutenant Mellors made it pretty obvious.
You can't be sure that what happened to Mellors has any bearing on this case.
Because you think Crane is guilty.
Look, Graham, I know how you feel.
I feel pretty unhappy about this business myself.
I've always thought of Crane as a very promising young officer, - but, no, the facts - Circumstantial evidence.
There are facts which seem to suggest that he's been giving information to the enemy.
No one outside HMS Zebra knows what's happened.
Most of the personnel here thinks that he's confined to his quarters with an attack of measles.
By keeping the matter secret, we hope that someone will give themselves away.
So if the transmission with the new crystal is jammed on Monday, it will prove that information could not have been passed out by Sub-Lieutenant Crane, unless of course, he broke from close arrest for the purpose.
We'll see, we'll see.
Well, what do you think of it? Oh, it's a fascinating place.
I'd love to see it in full swing.
Oh, the staff don't come in until the afternoon on Sundays.
I thought you'd prefer to see it without the bods.
We can hear ourselves think for a change.
You must be very proud of all of this.
I won't deny that.
Was it pride that made you ask me to come and see it? Do I really need to answer that? You're a very attractive woman, Cathy.
Thank you.
A gorgeous view.
You can see for miles.
You get rather used to that I'm afraid.
I hadn't realized how high up we are.
Surely that's part of HMS Zebra there across the valley, isn't it? That must the roof of the control room.
I believe so.
I am more interested in the bar, myself.
Have you never seen over the station? It's a fascinating place.
Frankly, I'm too well-aware of what we owe to the services to try and poke my nose in.
Doesn't news come first? Even a newspaper man can have principles.
- Yes, of course.
- (telephone rings) Excuse me, dear lady.
Well, have you seen enough? Have you seen enough to convince you? Convince me of what, Mr.
Franks? That it's worth spending thrupence a week on our little paper.
Oh, thank you, Maggie.
Oh you're all dressed up.
That's a very pretty hat.
Where are you going, chapel? Chapel.
Oh, no, it's my evening off.
I have every other Sunday free and sometimes Tom takes the bar over in the evening so I can get some fresh air.
- Milk? - Yes, please.
Where do you go? Usually to see a girlfriend, Linda.
- She keeps her father's sweet shop just up the road.
- I've seen it.
But it can't be much fun for you young things - around here, is it? - You're telling me.
I'm getting out of it just as soon as I can.
You're quite right, spirit of adventure.
I like to see it.
Hello, Mrs.
Gale.
- Fruitful? - Not very.
I'm not sure I didn't make a complete fool of myself.
Oh, dear, really? What do you make of this? "20 x 175.
" Well, nothing at the moment.
We've had proof that the jamming is local.
- How local? - 10 miles of Zebra.
There's a second transmitter, of the stiletto type which may or may not be ready to jam our transmissions.
Is there nothing you can do? Not till tomorrow's demonstration.
I suppose anybody with a certain amount of technical knowledge could know when the Navy starts tracking satellite gamma.
Yeah, they'd know when it was in the area.
It's a very well-behaved satellite.
I wish we could get you into the control room tomorrow.
I think that's pushing the uses of psychiatry even beyond Nash's credulity.
Where did you find this? In a wastepaper basket in Franks' office.
Huh, looks like a dart's score.
Well, Why would he have it? It's the only pub for eight miles and I've never seen him playing here.
Who are the regulars? Oh, a few of the locals, old Thomas.
Rankin occasionally.
Oh, Mellors used to Mellors? I don't think you made a fool of yourself at all.
Two ounces of the mixture please, and a quarter of the usual.
Something wrong, Cathy? Yes.
I'm bored, and I want more money.
If you want me to do all this, you got to pay for it, you know.
All this? A dog comes in here once in a while, you take a piece of paper, pass it on to me, you don't know where it comes from, what it signifies.
I'd say that's easy money.
Well, I know the dog belongs to that crazy artist, if he is an artist, and I also know that you're very anxious to get the paper.
Now so far I've kept the information to myself, but I bet it's worth more than 20 pounds for it to stay that way.
- You've forgotten something.
- Have I? In order to use all this money and go somewhere where your beauty and talents will be appreciated, you've got to be alive.
- You ready, Cathy? - Yes, just about.
I hope all goes well for you today, Ken.
Which way do I take that? Oh, yes, I suppose your loyalties are a bit divided.
Yes, naturally, I want the test to succeed, but if we do get jammed again, it will prove once and for all that Sub-Lieutenant Crane is not guilty.
Quite.
Shall we go in? Ah, there you are.
Time to get started.
- Our visitors will be here in a minute.
- Ready when you are.
All right, I'll take over now.
How long to go? About two minutes, sir, she's frightfully punctual.
I hope the excitement doesn't prove too much for you, Graham? Nothing showing so far, sir.
Oh, gentlemen, this is Dick Thorne, he's in charge of the program.
He said he'd have a talk later on.
- Give her 60 seconds.
- Right, sir.
- Thorne: Has the trace been clear? - Yes, sir.
Watch for the bearings.
If they're steady, it's a good crystal.
- Shall I check the beam? - Please, once she settles down.
- Anything on the PPI? - Not yet, sir.
There may be some static interference when we pick it up at first, sir, then the signal should get stronger over the next minute, reaching maximum intensity then.
Unless we get jammed.
(machinery whirs) There's something.
What's that? Thorne: That's gamma all right, it should get stronger over the next 60 seconds.
Thorne: There you are.
That's better.
That's fine isn't it? That's the best I've ever seen it.
I really believe you've done it this time, Thorne.
I really believe you have.
Let's just wait until we reach maximum intensity, if we get past that, then we've really done something.
Graham: Maximum signal coming up in five seconds, starting now.
Four, three, two, one.
Thorne: Blast it! Switch the selector.
Damp it.
Try a second radial.
Hold the sensitivity, man! - Hold it! - All right, all right.
- They've done it again, sir.
- Not so fast, look, it's clearing.
No, that always happens.
They're just showing us they can do what they like when they like.
And we'll never find out where it's coming from.
No, because we're dealing with a controlled microwave.
Direction timing just doesn't work.
I'm sorry, gentlemen.
Oh, it's not your fault, Dick.
Let's you up to my office and have a drink.
I'm sure you can do with one.
This way, gentlemen, please.
Cigarette, Cathy? Thank you.
You know, I feel quite sorry for Nash.
It must be embarrassing having the undersecretary peering over your shoulder.
I feel more sorry for Thorne.
He must be bitterly disappointed.
Yes, but at least this proves Sub-Lieutenant Crane - is not guilty.
- Yes.
It does look pretty conclusive.
Of course, I had a few worried moments, but when lieutenant Mellors was murdered well, I I knew Crane couldn't be guilty.
Have you any idea why Mellors was killed? He probably read my report.
Oh? What was in it? Well, I didn't mention any names, nothing as open as that.
I just hinted how the ingredients in the rubies could've been discovered by people other than Crane.
Have you any idea who Mellors - could've passed the information on to? - No.
Have you? I cleared that matter with the police.
They're convinced the motive was robbery.
Poor Mellors, he was good officer, had his faults, but don't we all? Wouldn't be human if we hadn't.
If it's all right by you, I'd like to publish the facts - in next week's edition.
- Oh, yes, that's quite all right.
If he hadn't been killed in the village, - I could've kept it out altogether.
- Quite so.
I do appreciate your consideration in this matter.
(telephone rings) Wardroom.
Who? I can't hear you.
Yes, I believe he is.
Hold on a minute.
- Mr.
Graham.
- Yes? Excuse me.
Oh, Graham, you mind tell your girlfriends we don't encourage personal calls here.
Graham here.
Oh, hello.
- I've got to see you tonight.
- Sure, what time? I've got to get dad supper, Say 9:00? All right.
What's the trouble? It's about a dog.
I can't tell you now except you're right.
- You will come, won't you? - Yes, of course.
Well, I hope she's a little bit more presentable than the last one, Graham.
No, sir, she wants to talk to me about a dog.
Well, I must be on my way.
Oh, won't you stay to dinner? I'd love to, but I'm afraid duty calls.
Oh, dear.
He seems to be in a better mood tonight.
Oh, he's all over the place.
I wouldn't judge the Navy by that young gentleman.
We were all young once, I suppose.
Well, it's been a very pleasant noggin.
My dear fellow, any time.
You've forgotten your beer.
Hmm? Oh, thanks.
When you see her, don't take no for answer.
No, I won't.
- Good night.
- Good night.
Oh, Mr.
Frank.
Good evening to you, sir.
- Do you care for a game, sir? - What'll be tonight then? - Snooker or billiards? - Snooker or bil snooker, sir.
Come on, set them up.
Will you be seeing Michael tomorrow, sir? - Eh? - Crane.
Probably.
I wonder if you'd give him a message for me.
Yes, of course.
I wonder if you'd tell him that I think I'm onto some Steed: What's the matter, Graham? Graham! Steward! Quick give me a hand! (knock on door) Man: Anybody home? I've got a message for you from Graham.
- What is it? What's the matter? - Graham was delayed, he asked for you to give me the message.
- You go! I'll call myself.
- What were you gonna tell him? - It was personal.
- Whose dog is it? - What dog? - I don't know anything about any dog! - Yes, you do.
- Let me go! Now look, Graham is dead.
He's been murdered.
Now who owned that dog? I don't know.
I don't know.
- It belongs to Rankin the artist.
- Go on.
He doesn't come in himself, he sends a dog with a message in its collar.
- What messages? What do they say? - I don't know.
- I don't have to read them.
- What do you do? - I can't tell you.
- Who to? - Who to? - Oh, he'd kill me.
- Man: Linda? - Just coming! Lock the door.
Oh, you're too good for me, Mrs.
Gale.
Too much practice I'm afraid.
Maggie: There's one thing, though, I won't touch a dart when I get to London.
You're very keen to get away, aren't you, Maggie? - Well, wouldn't you be? - Yes, I dare say, but I wouldn't be in too much of a hurry if I were you.
London can be pretty lonely, you know, all by yourself.
Don't finish Maggie, carry on.
- Graham's been murdered.
- How? He was poisoned with nicotine, I think.
Have you seen Mr.
Rankin, Maggie? Oh, he's taking his dog for a walk, sir.
He does every evening.
Excuse me.
Get up to his room and have a look around, quick.
Rankin, right.
You take my turn, eh? Uh-huh.
Maggie, if Mr.
Rankin comes in before I get back, keep him down here, will you? Give him a drink, chat him up a bit.
You know how to do that, don't you? Yes, quite successful.
We can't continue to operate from here much longer.
Things are hotting up.
I had to get rid of Graham.
Tonight.
When are the NATO exercises due to start? I see.
Yes.
And without Mellors, there's not much else we can do.
Tonight then? Right, good-bye.
Nice walk, Mr.
Rankin? Oh yes, thank you, Maggie.
Would like a little whisky before you go up? On the house.
- You look a bit cold.
- Do I really? Well that's very nice of you, Maggie.
Thank you very much, Maggie.
Oh, you want the other half don't you? No, thanks, I've got some work to do.
I was just thinking, there's not much point in going to bed at this hour, is there? There's such a thing as having too much sleep, don't you think? Oh, very probably, but I must do some work.
If I were you, Mr.
Rankin, I'd have another game of darts and relax.
Then you'll be fresh to do your work in the morning.
No, I shall be all right.
Thank you, Maggie.
Bye-bye.
Mr.
Steed, he's gone up.
I couldn't keep him any longer.
Steed: Thank you, Maggie.
Oh.
(Chuckles) Hey, look, where's Rankin? I don't know? Has he come back? Maggie said he'd come up here.
Maggie, I thought you said Mr.
Rankin had come up here.
- He went out again, sir.
- Do you know where? I think I know where.
After you.
Sorry.
Ladies first.
(knock on door) Franks, Franks they're here, they're coming.
They'll send for the police.
They're bound to.
Stop blabbing.
What happened? It's Steed and the Gale woman, she was in my room.
- She may have found something.
- What could she possibly have found? There's nothing on paper connecting you and me.
- Was there? - No, of course not.
Then what makes you think they'll come here? Well, they might have talked to Linda.
I think Linda knows better than to give anybody my name.
Yes, but what are we going to do? We've still got to ensure that the HMS Zebra doesn't take part in the NATO exercises.
Look, look, there are headlights coming over the bridge.
Let them come.
We'll prepare a little reception for them.
No thanks, not me.
I came here to warn you.
That's all.
I need you, Rankin! What is all this? Franks, you can't keep me here, Franks, you can't.
You've only seen Patsy when she's lined up on the Navy.
What good is that going to be? They aren't going to be stopped by a beam of light.
They are by this one.
Patsy can stop any living creature - with blood in its veins.
- What? Anybody who steps into Patsy's beam will have their body temperature raised to 350 degrees centigrade.
Their blood would coagulate on the spot.
Yes, and the police are soon going to know why, aren't they? Long before the police can sort out the cause of death, this apparatus will be dismantled and destroyed.
Of course our central committee have strong views on people who leave evidence lying about or who talk.
Agh! No That door was locked the last time I was here.
Stay there.
Come on.
Oh, that's pretty neat, small enough to be maneuverable and powerful enough to jam anything within about 10 miles.
Provided you know how to switch on the light.
- HMS Zebra, isn't it? - Could be.
Yes, look there's the laboratory, - and that's the control room.
- Yes.
Steed: Well, the birds have flown.
Only one of them, I'm afraid.
- Do you think Franks did this? - Presumably.
Mellors and Rankin dead.
And us, he thinks.
What's his next move? Don't move, Thorne.
Franks, what what You'll find out soon enough.
Pity you had to work late tonight.
Anyone in the control room? Open the door! Right.
(ticking) (grunts) Get up.
In there.
You all right, Thorne? Yes, yes, I'm all right.
Where is it? (ticking) Dismantle it.
How soon will it go off? - Five minutes.
- Oh.
Dismantle it.
You'll never get it off.
Those things are made to stick.
Mm-hmm, I see.
- Well, do you want your head blown off? - Don't, don't touch that! I'm not going to, don't worry.
Mr.
Franks is going to, um, diffuse it.
I don't think that's very likely.
All right, we'll do it.
They work on a combination of numbers, like a safe.
- It'll take us hours.
- Get out of here.
Sound the alarm.
- Well what about you? - I'll join you in a moment.
Quick, you're valuable.
Don't you consider yourself valuable, Mr.
Steed? By my reckoning, it's two minutes, 40 seconds you've got.
Do I? If you change your mind, let me know.
You better shout loud, I may be some way away.
You're not gonna leave me here! They're very fine things those bombs, you know.
It may not kill you, just mess you up a bit.
No! Let me out, let me out! Nash: Bomb? - In there.
- With Franks? - How long have we got? - Get him out.
- You can't let him blow himself up.
- He won't.
(alarm bell clanging) - You better leave.
- You can't risk it.
50 seconds, Franks.
- You better go, Mrs.
Gale.
- You can't leave him in there.
Go on.
Let me out! I can't hear you, you'll have to shout louder.
- Let me out!! - 30 seconds.
Oh! Oh, no! All right, Steed.
All right, clear.
Come in.
Well, I must say, Steed, I didn't share your confidence.
However, you considerably raised my opinion of psychiatrists, and I'm sure Sub-Lieutenant Crane would support that view.
- Let's go and tell him.
- May we? - Yes, yes, of course.
- I think you better do that.
He'd never believe me.
I think that's your baby, that little one there, Commander.
Thank you.
(theme music playing)