Original subtitles

Now, ladies and gentlemen, I must ask you to keep very quiet,

because Ernie's got to keep his mind on the job,

or there'll be a strange face in heaven.

Now, upon the neck I put what is known as a half-hitch.

Around the body, another half-hitch.

Pull tight till the sack rests on the forceps of the arm.

An now, another half-hitch round his knees and round his ankles,

and there he is, trussed up like somebody's Christmas dinner.

And by the way, ladies and gentlemen,

if anyone's got a mother-in-law they don't like,

I'll place her in the mail bag, and they can go out and enjoy themselves.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, I'm coming round with the pay box.

If you can't afford it, just stand your ground.

And if you've got no money, ladies and gentlemen,

just put your hand in somebody else's pocket and see how much they've got.

(crowd laughing)

Come out!

Very sorry, sir. Have a heart.

I've cautioned you once. I'll have to charge you this time.

Right-o, sir. Ernie can wriggle out of anything.

- Go on, move along. - Right-o, sir.

(screams)

Oh, you beast!

Take that!

- Come back! Come back! - Come on then!

What are you up to?

Nothing, just helping.

Well, it isn't natural. You get back to your lessons.

- I finished them. - You weren't long.

- Did you do them properly? - Of course I did.

- They was easy. - 'Were' easy.

Were easy.

I got ten out of ten for arithmetic yesterday.

Oh, don't do that.

(whistling)

Here you are.

Door to door service. Whatcha, Tiddler.

- All right, love? - Mm-hmm.

Mum, can I have a sixpence?

I haven't got a sixpence.

Oh, go on, Mum, please! I want a balloon.

I'm not made of money. What do you want a balloon for anyway?

- Ta. - Oh, just because.

Last week it was bows and arrows, next week it'll be something else.

And I know just how long a balloon would last with you...

five minutes and you'd burst it!

I wouldn't. Promise I wouldn't.

- Beans on toast all right? - What, no caviar?

Dad, haven't you got a sixpence?

The old fellows got some smashing balloons.

Yellow ones.

As big as that!

They're only a tanner, Dad.

It isn't much for a really big balloon.

- He been a good boy today, Em? - Too precious good if you ask me.

Well, try my pocket.

- Cor, Dad! - Now, don't say I'm not good to you.

(Mum) Oh no, my lad. First you go and put your books away.

And don't go out without your jacket.

That's all he was soft-soaping me for.

He got ten out of ten in arithmetic this week.

Did he? There you are.

Might have a chance of winning that scholarship, you know, Em.

Of course he has.

Ha! You and your old teapot.

If it wasn't for this old teapot, Ted Palmer, we'd never breathe clean air

or see a green field from one year's end to the next.

I like a few days rest and a bit of a change, even if you don't.

I know, girl, I was only kidding. You could do with a holiday.

Bye, Mum.

'fraid it's a goner, son!

Never mind. Perhaps your dad'll give you another one.

I bet he won't.

Mum will be wild with me. She won't let him.

- And I wanted it specially too! - Come on now, come on now!

We can't have you behaving like this. Big fellow like you!

The police get lost things back for people, don't they?

Well, that depends, son.

Still, I'll tell you what... I'll take your name and address, just in case, eh?

It's Frankie Palmer.

- 6 Victory Buildings. - Just a minute, son.

Frankie Palmer...

6 Victory Buildings.

Just over there.

You will try, won't you?

Leave it to me, son.

If you find a tanner down there, it's mine, see.

And if you keep it, then that's stealing.

And the police are in... investigating.

So, clear off or I'll punch your nose!

Got a balloon?

(lisping) Yes, I'm going to fill it with gas and let it go with a message.

Who to?

Hopalong Cassidy.

The seagulls will get it.

- Give us a hold of it, Ron. - No, I told you I'm going to fill it with gas...

(imitates lisp) ... and send a message to the seagulls.

- (shouts) Buy your own bloomin' balloon! - Oh, Ronnie swore!

Ronnie swore, Ronnie swore!

- Ronnie's mum will tan his backside! - Hey!

Frankie!

Come back! Frankie!

Frankie! Come back, Frankie!

Frankie! Where are you?

Come on out!

Frankie! Come on out!

(whooping)

You'll be sorry!

I'll poke your eyes out! I'll twist your ears off!

Frankie!

I'll kill you, I'll kill you!

Give it back!

Come down off of there. You'll burst it!

You come up and get me then.

You beast! I'll tell my mum.

Come on, slow coach.

You wait! Just you wait!

Come on. Hurry up.

(screams)

You got yourself in a nice mess, haven't you, kid?

Just look at you.

You've done it all right and no mistake.

What you want to go and push him like that for?

I didn't!

I didn't!

Well, I must say it looked as if you was pushing from what I saw.

I can only say how it looked to me, can't I?

(gasps)

Not so fast!

Please! Please, mister! I didn't push him.

All right, all right, I believe you.

He came after me. He jumped.

I couldn't hold him, really, I couldn't.

I said I believe you, didn't I?

Take it easy, boy.

It was an accident. You couldn't help it.

But we got to think what the police'll say about it.

- The police? - Mmm...

Nasty, suspicious lot, they are.

We got to look at it their way.

- You say you didn't mean to push him. - It's the truth!

Well, I know that, but what are they going to think?

What...

- What will they do to me? - Well, it all depends.

But I'm afraid it could mean big trouble.

Now, don't go upsetting yourself. Maybe we can think of a way out.

Come on, we don't want to stop here.

You need to sit down, pull yourself together.

Now, listen, kid, I'd like to help you, honest I would.

You see, I know what it's like to be in a spot.

You've heard of the saying, haven't you... a friend in need is a friend indeed.

- Yes. - You can count on me as a friend.

I don't mind telling you you need one just now.

Thank you, mister.

- Just call me Len. - Len.

You don't have to thank me, kid.

But we got to think fast if we both want to stay out of trouble.

Why? Have you done something bad?

Oh, of course not!

I just had an unlucky break.

I'm the most law-abiding man in the world.

But I've been framed.

It's like this, kid. The police suspect me of something I didn't do.

But I've got no alibi, I can't prove I wasn't there.

We're in the same boat, you and me, aren't we?

Yes.

They've get spies everywhere, so we can't be too careful.

So, drink up like a good boy, and let's get moving.

I don't fancy prison much, do you?

No.

- What's the matter with him? - Oh, he fell and cut his knees.

Now he's frightened he'll get a leathering for mucking up his clothes.

For Pete's sake, don't cry, Frankie. It's only drawing attention to us.

Be a brave boy and dry your eyes. Come on, I'll take you home to your mum.

Come on.

Billy, stay with me. You'll get a smacked bottom.

You lost yours, didn't you, kid?

It wasn't mine, it was...

Here's a nice red one for you, just to show you I'm your pal.

I don't want it.

Come on, kid, be your age.

You just act like nothing's happened, we'll be all right.

Let's see a smile now.

That's more like it!

I don't want to go home, Len.

- Can't I stay with you? - Sorry, mate.

Come on, I know what I'm doing.

Suppose they've found out already?

Just deny everything.

But I get all mixed up when I don't tell the truth.

And Mum always knows when it's a story.

- She'll find out, I know she will. - Nah...

Please let me stop with you, Len. Please.

It's no good, you can't now. Just trust me, will you?

Will you?

- What happened to him? - Mrs Palmer?

He's not hurt. He just scraped his knee. I had to pull him out a fight with some kids.

Look at you! Just look at you!

How many more times do I have to tell you to keep away from those hooligans?

You better meet me in that cafe tonight, Frank, I may have an idea by then.

In the meantime, try to keep your head and don't talk.

No, Len. No, I won't.

His dad'll give it him when he hears he's been scrapping again.

- It's very kind of you to bring him home. - That's all right, Mrs Palmer.

I don't like to see a little one being bullied by kids twice his size.

Well, I'd better get moving. Be seeing you, Frankie.

You'll catch it, my lad. What did your dad say to you last time?

And just look at your jacket!

I don't know what I'm going to do with you.

Frankie!

Anything you fancy, deal?

No, thank you.

Well, you just stay where you are,

and I'll make you some soup and a little jelly.

I don't want anything.

Now, Frankie, I don't want any nonsense. You've got to eat something.

(door bell rings)

Oh, Emily. The most terrible thing.

Whatever is it?

Sit down, Jessie.

That poor Mrs Williams! They can't do nothing with her.

They've just found her Ronnie with his back broke!

(Emily) Dear God! However did it happen?

(Jessie) In a bombed house in Candle Street.

He must have been playing there and fallen.

Dead of course.

Poor little soul.

It's a scandal, Emily. That's what I say.

These places ought to be boarded up.

Time and again I've told my lot to keep out of them.

I shan't ever feel like letting the kids play in the street again.

Thank you.

Can I do anything?

No. Poor creature... she's got the police with her.

She'll have to go down and identify him, of course.

They knew who he was, though,

because she always made him carry his name and address in case he got lost...

or anything.

Such a nice little chap.

Ah, well... he's spared a lot of this world's wickedness,

though God knows that's precious little comfort to his mother.

(Jessie) I thought you ought to be the first to know,

because him and your Frankie were friendly, weren't they?

(Emily) Oh, I daren't tell him. He's queer enough as it is.

He got fighting with that Stewart Street mob,

and a nice young chap brought him home half dead.

You want to watch him, being your only one.

Honest, Em. I shan't have another minute's peace of mind when my lot's outside.

Thanks for the cuppa, love.

- Good night, Emily. - Good night, Jessie.

- Where are you going? - Just out for a bit.

You're not going anywhere tonight, my lad.

Oh, go on, Mum, please, I'm all right.

I'm only going down to see Tommy Evans.

You can see him tomorrow.

Oh, only for a little while, Mum.

He...

He forgot his lessons, so I said I'd help him.

Oh, all right, but don't you be late or you'll catch it from your dad.

No, Mum.

- Yes? - Good evening, Mrs Palmer.

Might I have a word with the young gentleman?

What's he been up to?

There was an unfortunate accident this morning.

However...

All's well that ends well, eh?

He dropped it down the drain.

I've got kids of my own.

Oh, thank you very much, Constable.

- Say thank you, Frankie. - Thank you.

Yes, and you be more careful next time, son.

- They don't grow on trees, do they? - I should think not.

Don't stay out long, mind.

- Hello, Sid. How's business? - Not so healthy, boy.

The bottom's dropped out of the nylon racket.

You don't have to tell me. Can't put anything in my way, can you?

Not right now.

Makes it awkward with Uncle Sam on your tail. Doubles the risk.

Anyway, the mugs aren't as trusting as they used to be.

- I've found one that is. - Yeah?

Here he is. Push off, will you?

- What, him? - I said push off!

There's the boy. Everything all right, Frank?

Yes.

- Mum didn't want me to come. - Well, I'm glad you did.

Here, get yourself a drink.

- Thank you. - Make the most of it.

No telling where the next one's coming from.

Lemonade, please.

There you are. All right now, ducks?

- Yes, thank you. - That's the ticket.

Hear anything at your place today?

- Yes. - What were they saying?

About Ronnie and how they found him.

Found him already, have they?

They don't waste their time, the cops, you gotta say that for 'em.

Nobody's said anything to you, have they, boy?

- No. - Good.

- You had an idea yet? - Not exactly.

There's something we've got to face up to.

If things get too hot, we may have to bolt for it.

- You mean run away? - Oh, just till it's all blown over.

Just for a week or two.

What would Mum and Dad say?

What would they say if the police came to fetch you?

Trouble is you need money when you're on the run.

You've got to have it now, no good waiting till it's too late.

Haven't you got any money?

I spent my last bob on you.

Not that I grudge it, but...

Well, to tell you the truth, I haven't had a square meal for days.

You don't know what it's like to be hungry, do you?

You've got a nice warm bed and good food to go home to.

Is this any good?

No, you keep it, boy. I'm afraid we're gonna need much more than that.

Perhaps I could get some more.

Could you? Quickly?

We don't wanna be caught on the hop, do we?

- I'll try. - Thanks a million, Frankie.

And if you do have any luck, come right along to me. I'm always in here.

- But mind how you go. - Yes, Len.

Your new business partner, eh?

So, that's the idea... taking candy from a baby.

It could mean more than candy.

OK, Flo, one egg and chips.

Yes, sonny?

Would you buy this, please?

Had it a long time, haven't you?

Only since Christmas.

Oh! Does your father know you're selling his Christmas presents?

No.

Sorry, son.

- But it writes red too. - Oh, I'm not saying it's not a nice pencil,

but I couldn't buy it even if I wanted to, not till you're 21.

- Not till then? - That's the law.

Anyway, I've got a window full of pencils.

Everyone's short of money these days.

Oh.

Thank you.

There you are, sonny.

Thank you, sir.

Mister. This yours?

Yes. Yes... it is indeed.

Thank goodness. Thank you very much.

Honesty must... must always be rewarded.

This is for you, my boy.

You'd give away the whole world if I didn't watch you.

Financial difficulties again, eh, Frankie?

I... I...

What was all that about?

I don't know. I hope it's not another good kid going wrong.

(street vendor) They're lovely.

All ripe, all juicy.

Who wants some nice ripe muscats, two bob for a pound?

All ripe, all juicy.

Here you are, chum. Thank you.

Who wants 'em?

All ripe muscats, two bob a pound. Who wants 'em?

All ripe, all juicy, they're lovely.

They're lovely. All fresh, all ripe... muscats, ripe muscats.

They're lovely, all juicy.

Who wants 'em? Three and a half.

Anybody want... Yes, lady?

- A pound, please. - Pound of muscats...

Oh, they're lovely. Lovely and sweet too they are, I tell you.

A pound of muscats.

They're lovely, they're juicy.

Here, that's never a pound.

I wouldn't do you, lady, I'd rather give 'em to you.

Two bob. I thank you.

They're lovely. They're lovely. All ripe, all juicy.

Who wants 'em? All ripe, all juicy.

'Ere, help. Help!

Some thieving basket half 'inched a perishing pine. Get after him!

- Which way did he go? - How do I know? Go look for him.

Why couldn't he pinch a cherry? Lot of sockin' robbers.

- Come on, Charlie, move on. - Not so flippin' likely!

I've been robbed, and I'm sticking here till I catch the flickering thief what done it.

One pineapple, value seven and a kick. What are you going to do about it?

- I'm sorry... - You're sorry?

- What about my rights as a taxpayer? - As a what?

Well, ratepayer.

Do me a favour, son. Get out of it!

Mind your back, lady. Why don't you look where you're going?

- Go home and cook! (car horn beeps, tyres screech)

And you!

What's that?

A pineapple.

Yeah, I can see that, but what's it for?

You said you was hungry.

Well, that's very nice of you, Frank, but...

Where did you get it?

Off a barrow.

How much?

Nothing.

You mean you stole it?

- Yes. - Frankie, how could you?

Don't you know it's very wicked to steal?

Look, kid, I'm not going to help you if you go on like this.

You just promise me you'll never steal again.

Promise me?

I promise.

All right, we'll say no more about it then.

Now listen, kid, I've been tipped off that they're on to us.

I had a narrow escape earlier on.

And Flo tells me they've been asking about a little boy

who lives in Victory Buildings.

Now, don't look like that, kid. Keep your chin up.

Remember, I'm with you, boy.

But I'd be a lot happier if we had that money.

Where are we gonna get it?

Haven't got anything in the post office, I suppose?

Nothing saved up anywhere?

- There is only... - Yes, Frank?

Only the holiday money.

Mum keeps it in a teapot on the dresser.

If I was her, I'd let you have something if it meant keeping you out of trouble.

I can't ask her for that money, Len.

I'd have to tell her all about everything.

You don't have to ask her.

But you just told me never to...

Once and for all get it out of your head that I want you to steal anything.

It would only be... well, sort of borrowing it, that's all.

I promise you, Frank, I don't want you to get into any trouble with your mum.

I can't, Len.

All right, boy, I understand.

Now, go along home, get some shut-eye. You look all in.

- Are you going home? - Home? That's a good one.

Where are you going to sleep?

Don't you worry about me, you just take care of yourself.

Now, go along, kid.

And if anyone asks any questions, I only hope Flo's able to keep 'em guessin'.

Because I know how your mum and dad would feel

if the police did come and have to take you away.

- Good night, boy. - Good night, Len.

What happened? D'you win the jackpot?

(continues laughing)

(footsteps approaching)

Where have you been?

Just look at the time!

Didn't I tell you to come straight back?

And don't tell me you were with Tommy Evans, because I know different.

What do you want to go and worry your mum like this for, eh?

I don't know.

You all right now?

You had us worried, you know, Frankie.

Your mum thought that you might have had an accident or something.

Something happened today, you know, Frank.

Your pal, young Ronnie...

He got hurt bad.

In fact...

In fact, he's gone, poor little blighter.

I know.

Your suppers in your room.

Try and eat something, there's a good bey.

There you are.

I told you kids don't go off the deep end about things like that.

It isn't as if they was great pals.

I don't know what you was worrying about, Em.

But he seemed so strange.

I didn't want to risk setting him off again.

Kids is proper little savages, even the best of 'em.

I don't think anything bothers 'em much.

At least till they've get kids of their own to look after.

We've got a lot to be thankful for, Ted.

Oh, give over, Ted.

There, you've made me jab my finger.

Never mind, love.

(Emily) Puss, puss, puss. Tibby, Tibby.

Oh, all right. Stay out then.

(door closes)

(clock chimes)

Frankie!

- What happened? - I...

- I wanted a drink. - Well, come on back to bed.

Mum'll get you a drink.

- Is he all right? - Yes, he's all right.

Hop in then.

There we are.

Here, dear.

Had enough?

Now be a good boy and try to get to sleep, won't you?

- Night, night. - OK? Tuck down then.

Good night, lad.

(sobbing)

(church bells tolling)

Watch the toast, dear.

Oh, why can't you do what you're asked. I told you to watch it.

Want anything done round here, do it yourself.

Go wake your father.

- Mum said to wake you. (grunts)

I've been awake for hours.

- No peace for the wicked. - (Mum) Breakfast is on the table.

Well, I think I'll lie in for a bit. I won't get a chance for another month.

You'll get up this minute, Ted Palmer.

There's the beds to do and dinner to get ready and goodness knows what.

I never get a morning off.

Fetch me slippers, there's a good old son.

I tell you what, Frankie boy.

How about you and me going down to the bridge, taking a look at the trains?

We haven't done that for a long time, have we?

I don't mind.

Well, you needn't be so toffee-nosed about it.

What's the matter? Getting too big for trains now?

No.

You needn't kid yourself you're grown up yet, Tiddler.

Big strong man, eh?

Got any hairs on your chest yet? Let's have a look, come on.

(strains) - Don't!

What's the matter, son? Not feeling so good?

- I'm all right. - (Mum) Oh, leave him alone!

And for goodness' sake, hurry up!

Come on, then. Quick march, superman.

Got to keep your strength up.

Frankie, put that wretched thing away and sit down.

Well, somebody got out of bed the wrong side if you ask me.

Oh, eggs again, eh?

- Who's been making love to the grocer? - Be thankful for small mercies.

And stop trying to be funny, if you don't mind.

Well, I don't know. You're a bright pair this morning, I must say.

Hope it isn't catching.

Oh, blimey!

Hey...

What are you staring at?

Oh, and look at your plate.

Frankie, you haven't eaten a thing!

If you're trying to worry me to death, you're going the right way about it.

I don't know what's come over you.

Well, he's not hungry, are you, Frankie boy? I shouldn't force him, Em.

Come on then. I'll help you out.

(Mum) Oh, hurry up. You'll be late.

- Bye, Mum. - Let's have a look at you.

Mm-hmm. You'll need a clean hanky.

- Give him something for the collection. - Hmm?

Hey, Tiddler.

Don't spend it all at once.

Don't use it to blow in.

And no playing about in your best clothes, mind.

- Come straight back. - Yes, Mum.

I don't care what you say, he's grieving for Ronnie.

- Shouldn't we send a wreath? - Anything you say, old girl.

I think we ought to.

Just to show sympathy. It's the least we can do.

Chap I know in Covent Garden do us a nice one.

- I'll drop in tomorrow. - Don't get anything funeral looking.

Not for a kiddie.

I hate to see flowers all twisted out of their natural shapes anyway.

- Just a pretty sheaf... roses or something. - I know, love.

How much would it cost, a thing like that?

On, thirty bob.

Two pounds near enough.

Oh, don't you worry. I've got it.

But that's for your shoes, Ted. Now, you need them.

Not that bad.

- There's the holiday money. - That stays where it is.

Now, don't you be silly. You let me do things my way for once.

- Ted... - I don't want an argument, love.

Neither do I. So, you'll just get those new shoes and say no more about it.

Oh, I'll make it up somehow.

All right, have it your own way then.

Smack.

Ted... Ted, it's gone!

What do you mean, 'gone'?

- It can't have. - But I tell you it has.

Look!

Well, you must've put it somewhere else. What about your purse?

Oh, I'd know if I'd put it in my purse, wouldn't I?

It was there last night where it's always been.

- Are you sure you haven't shifted it? - What did I just say?

Who was in here yesterday?

Only Jessie Stokes and that young boy who brought Frankie home.

But he hardly got inside the door, and I never took my eyes off Jessie.

Could anyone have got in the window, do you think?

- Are you sure you locked up properly? - I know I did!

Ted.

Last night... when Frankie...

and again this morning... the way he was going on.

He wouldn't, would he?

Oh, he wouldn't. He's as honest as daylight.

All the errands he's done for me, and the change never short a copper.

No, Ted. I must have moved it. I'll look in my purse.

Oh, Ted...

# All things bright and beautiful #

# All creatures great and small #

# All things bright and wonderful #

# The Lord God made them all #

# Each little flower that opens #

# Each little bird that sings #

# He made their glowing colours #

# He made their tiny wings #

# All things bright and beautiful #

# All creatures great and small #

# All things wise and wonderful #

# The Lord God made them all #

Now, do you remember I told you last week

how Adam and Eve were driven out of the garden of Eden

and how they had two sons.

Janet, are you listening?

What were their names?

- (whispers) Cain and Abel. - Cain and Abel.

Now, Abel looked after the sheep,

and Cain grew the corn and the fruit.

But Cain began to be very jealous of his brother,

because he thought he was the Lord's favourite.

So, one day, when they were out in the fields,

Cain took up a stone and killed his brother,

and when the Lord asked Cain where Abel was,

he replied, 'Am I my brother's keeper?'

Then the Lord was very angry, because he knew Cain was telling a lie.

So, he drove him away from his family and his friends.

And the Lord put a mark upon Cain.

He did this because Cain said,

'Lord, if you drive me away like this,'

'people will know what I have done and will try to kill me because of it.'

But God intended that no one should punish Cain but himself.

And so he marked him and said,

'If anyone tries to kill Cain,'

'I will give that man a punishment seven times as bad as Cain's.'

So, Cain went away and lived in the Land of Nod,

on the East of Eden.

Now shall we all stand up and sing 'There's a Friend for Little Children'.

# There's a friend for little children #

# Above the bright blue sky #

# A friend who never changes #

# Whose love will never die #

# Our earthly friends may fail us #

# And change with changing years #

# This friend is always worthy #

# Of that dear name he bears #

# There's a rest for little children #

# Above the bright blue sky #

# Who love the blessed Saviour #

# And to the Father cry #

# A rest from every turmoil #

# From sin and sorrow free #

# Where every little pilgrim... #

Oh, Frankie!

What did you do it for?

How could you?

Stealing from your own.

No, Ted, don't. He's only...

(lashing)

(door slams shut)

Why should he do such a thing, Ted?

- Why? - I don't know, Em.

I don't know.

Couldn't get a word out of him.

(sobbing)

Hello, Frankie boy.

- You're looking a bit down in the mouth. - I'm sorry, Len.

- Sorry, mate? Why, what's happened? - I didn't get anything.

I tried, Len, honest I did.

I borrowed five pounds from home like you told mo.

But they found it, and Dad walloped me.

- Oh, that's terrible. Did it hurt? - Not much.

You should have stuffed some newspapers down your pants.

Didn't have time.

Didn't let on about anything, Frankie?

- Oh, no, Len. I didn't even cry. - I didn't think you would.

What's up?

The policeman.

Smart work, boy. They might have got us then.

- They mustn't, Len. - They won't. We'll beat 'em yet, Frankie.

- I was just on my way up to see you. - Why, Len?

I think I'm on to something, but I can't pull it off without you.

A friend of mine is waiting for us.

- What is it, Len? - Is the coast clear?

- Yes, he's gone now. - Come on then.

Stick close to me and keep your eyes skinned.

You're not going in there, are you, Len?

Why not?

All those people.

Never heard the saying 'safety in numbers'?

Here. Enjoy yourself for a bit. But go easy, it's all we've got.

Been waiting long?

Long enough.

Sure it's all right, Iris?

Course. It's a cinch. Cushiest job I ever struck.

The old woman's away and the potman sleeps out.

There's only his nibs to take care of.

I think he's taken quite a fancy to me.

- You let him touch you, and I'll... - Keep your wool on!

You don't have to go through with it.

- You want to back out? - Why should I?

Open and shut.

Do we have to use the kid?

Sure. Put the old boy off his guard.

Lend us a dollar, will you? We'll need it for running expenses.

See you pay me back before you start running.

Well, what do you know?

You win that?

Well, there's a clever boy.

It must be worth quite a lot of money.

Mm-hmm... quite a lot.

You're not going to take it off the kid, Len?

Now, would I do a thing like that, I ask you?

Frank and me are pals, aren't we, Frank?

- Please, do take it, Len. - No, no, no, not on your life.

Here, I'll fix it for you.

Come on over here, Frank.

It's safer over here. No one will hear us.

Is it going to be all right, Len?

That all depends on you, Frank.

Now, listen... I know someone who lives in a pub,

someone who'll help us, if only I get in to see him.

- Can't you? - No. No, he lives upstairs.

Sort of er... invalid he is.

And the man that runs the pub doesn't like me.

He'd never let me in.

So, we've just got to find ways and means, haven't we?

Yes, Len.

Well, this is what we'll have to do.

We'll get to the pub just after closing time and wait till it's quiet.

Then you go up and knock on the door,

tell him your mum's took bad, you'd better have some brandy.

Iris here'll see that he lets you have it.

Then while he's getting it, I'll slip in.

- Got that? - But suppose the man stops you?

Don't you worry about that, Frank. That's my pigeon.

Once I'm inside, it'll be plain sailing.

I've only got to slip upstairs.

Chances are, he'll never even see me.

Are you game, boy?

Yes, Len.

What did I tell you? Frankie's one of the best.

(landlord) Time, gentlemen. Please.

How many more times? Now, come along, ladies and gentlemen.

- Good night, George. - Good night, old man. Good night.

(woman singing drunkenly) # There's a tavern in the town #

# In the town #

# And there my true love sits him down #

# Sits him down... # Oh, blow me legs!

# I'll hide my head in a weeping willow tree #

# And may the world go well with thee #

# Fare thee well for I must leave you #

# Do net let the parting grieve you #

Remember what I told you.

And don't forget, Frankie, it all depends on you.

Good luck, boy.

(man chuckling) Give us another pimple and blotch, love.

Go on, it's all right.

Have to get used to me, won't she, Les?

Cor, the times we've kept it up, eh, till the small hours of the morning, eh?

Come on, sunshine, what'll you have? And a double for the guvnor.

Sorry, Arthur.

They're getting a bit sharp around here just lately, new super.

Oh... all right.

I know when I'm not wanted.

(laughs)

- OK, well, I'll be getting along. - Right-o.

You are a boy, aren't you?

I'll tell the old missus about you!

Good night, Arthur.

Thinks he's funny!

(knocking)

Hello, son. What do you want?

Please, mister. Mum's been took bad.

- She's got to have some brandy. - Oh, brandy, eh?

- What's the matter with her? - She's got pains.

- Are you sure she hasn't just got a thirst? - No, she's bad, honest.

Anyone with her?

- Where's your dad? - I...

- I don't know. - Well, where do you live?

Oh, please, mister. I got the money.

All right, come on, sonny. But you'll have to be quick.

It's long past time.

- (glass breaking) - Oh, there! I'm real sorry, Mr Potter.

All right, my girl, all right.

Profit on a gallon of beer, that's all.

There you are, sonny. That'll set her up all right.

Half a crown.

Thanks.

Sorry, mate, we're closed.

Yeah, I know.

- Hey! What the...? - Move and I shoot!

Iris, quick! Get the police.

- 999. Dial 999. - Not me, I don't want to get shot.

Ah! No gun, eh?

Iris! Iris, call the police.

Len... Len!

You'll kill him.

- You've done for him. He's dead. - Shut up or it'll be your lot too.

You're in this with me up to your neck.

If you don't want to swing, we got to stick together.

- Now get on the phone to the police. - No.

Listen, all you gotta do is tell 'em what happened just as it was.

The boy came in and then a fellow... short, fair-haired fellow with a moustache.

You got that?

Frankie!

He'll give us away. You gotta find him, Len.

Shut up, can't you?

He can't have got far, the slippery little basket. I'll fix him.

You do as I told you. Leave the kid to me.

- What are you going to do with him? - It's him or us.

Don't you see? It's him or us.

- Len, you can't. - Get on that phone.

(bottle clanking)

Hello! What are you doing out at this time of night, sonny?

- Nothing. - Nothing?

Bit late for doing nothing, isn't it?

Well, come on.

Come on. I won't bite you.

Where do you live?

Run away?

Maybe they're worried about you.

No.

Well, you can't stay here all night, that's a certainty.

What's your name?

Frankie. Frankie Palmer.

I think you'd better come back with me till we see what we're gonna do with you.

- Are you hungry? - Yes.

Boys always are. Come on.

Good night, Officer.

(music plays)

Heavens above, boy, when did you have your last square meal?

Dinner time.

And what happened between now and dinner time to make you stop out all night?

Nothing.

(music stops)

Shall I put another one on?

Yes, please.

- Do you like music then? - Yes.

- I wish my neighbours did. - Don't they?

Oh, they say they can't get to sleep or it wakes their kids up or something.

I teach dancing, you see,

but I can't run to a proper studio of my own, not yet anyway.

(music plays)

You had enough?

Sure?

Would you like this?

Well, I'm not as hard up as all that, Frankie.

Thanks, anyway.

It's a beauty. Was it a birthday present?

No.

I won it at the arcade out of one of those crane things.

I suppose you stopped out late and now you're afraid to go home.

- Is that it, Frankie? - No.

Well, if you won't tell me, you won't.

Nothing for it but to take you down to the police station.

- No, please... please don't. - What's the matter, Frankie?

Why are you so scared of the police?

Just am.

You know...

I had a little boy like you once.

- Did he die? - No.

No, he lives with his father, but that's neither here nor there.

What I was going to say was.

If my little boy had done anything bad, no matter what,

if he'd told me about it truthfully, without keeping anything back,

I'd have got him out of it somehow.

Even if he'd done something dreadful?

Even if he'd done something dreadful.

I...

- I have... - Frankie!

What?

It was my pal Ronnie.

He'd got a balloon, I ran off with it. He came after me.

Then...

- And then he fell down and broke his back. - But that was an accident.

Len said the police might send me to prison even if it was an accident.

Who's Len?

He said he was my friend and he'd help me if I got money for him.

I pinched some from home, and Dad beat me.

- Then Len took me to a pub. - Where was this pub?

Len was going to take the money from the till.

A man tried to stop him. Len went for him.

- I ran away, I was scared. - Yes, but what was the name of this pub?

I don't know... I don't know, but they'll get me.

- And then they'll find out about Ronnie. - Oh, shh... Frankie, no.

No, Frankie.

You mustn't cry so much, darling.

Now, Frankie... now, listen.

There's nothing to be afraid of, truly there isn't.

You didn't mean to hurt Ron,

and nobody's going to try and make out that you did.

- They'll say I did. I know they will. - Now, listen, Frankie.

We must go round to the station and tell them what happened.

No... I won't go!

But we must help them find Len.

But they'll shut me up.

All right.

Would you like to go home then?

- I want to stay here. - I'm sorry, that can't be done.

What would your mother say if she found I was keeping you out.

Have me run in for kidnapping, I shouldn't wonder.

You wouldn't like that, would you?

I'll tell you what, Frank.

We'll go and find a taxi to take you home.

Your mother will be so pleased to see you, she'll forget all about being cross.

- Now, you tell her... - I can't!

It'll be all right.

Don't you believe me?

Don't you?

That's a boy.

Now we'll go and find a taxi and I'll lake you home.

Here you are. Buy yourself a present from me.

Go on! Wouldn't you like a new football?

- Yes, thank you. - Don't lose it.

We shouldn't have left it so late.

I'll never forgive myself if anything's happened to him.

I'll leave the door on the latch, just in case he comes back.

Please God he does.

Would you like me to come up with you?

No, thank you.

It's only over there.

Well, good night, Frankie. And cheer up!

It'll be all right, you'll see.

Good night.

Mum!

Mum!

Hello, Frankie.

What did you run off like that for?

I've been waiting for you.

Where have you been all this time?

Nowhere.

Just walking.

Didn't see anyone? To talk to, I mean?

What's the matter?

You're not afraid of me, are you?

- No. - What is it, kid?

You didn't tell me you was going to shoot him.

Shoot who, Frankie?

- The man in the pub. - I wasn't going to do anything like that.

I don't have a gun anyway.

- Then why did you... - It was like this, boy.

I kind of lost my head.

Don't blame me, Frankie.

It's hard to think straight when you're desperate.

You do silly things, things you never do in your right mind.

Then suddenly there it was, staring me in the face.

All that money in the till.

I thought, 'That's the easy way out for the kid and me'.

I only meant to scare the man.

It would have been OK if he hadn't attacked me like he did.

I had to defend myself, hadn't I?

Remember, I was doing it for you too, Frankie.

If he'd done for me, he'd have done for you as well.

You get that, don't you, kid?

Yes.

I knew you would.

What about the man?

- Is he dead? - That's just the trouble.

He had a good look at you and me.

He could describe us to the police when he comes round.

What are we gonna do then?

First thing to do is to get under cover for the night.

Give us time to think things over.

- I know a good hideout. - Can't...

- Can't I stay here? - I'm afraid not.

This is the first place they'd look for you.

Come on, boy. I'll see you right.

- When can I go home again? - We'll see, boy.

What the heck do you want, sneaking up on a girl like that?

- Bit jumpy tonight, aren't you, Mary? - It's none of your business.

Now then, now then.

Well, I'm upset. Just heard something dreadful.

In fact, I'm going into the station if you want to know.

Oh, must be something dreadful to get you to the station voluntary.

Oh, very funny, Constable Patterson.

Can I give you police protection?

And who's going to protect me from the police?

Sit down, Frank.

Is this where we're going to stay?

Sure. Cosy, ain't it? No one'll think of coming down here.

But I saw him go in.

Your husband will find him safe at home. I'm sure he will.

But all on his own like that.

That man might have got hold of him again.

He'll be too busy saving his own skin to worry about Frankie.

He won't go looking for more trouble.

He isn't there.

The latch was dropped, but... he isn't there.

Oh, Ted!

Perhaps he couldn't face it when it came to the point.

Not surprising with all that on his mind.

Why didn't he say, Ted? Why didn't he say?

As if we wouldn't have stood by him.

This fellow got a terrible hold on him, took him in completely.

Poor little soul.

- It was nice of you to help the boy, miss. - It was nothing.

There's only one thing in this world I hate more than a blackmailer, and that's a...

I should have stayed with him now, shouldn't I?

I thought maybe you could do with this, Mrs Palmer.

- Thank you. - What about you, sir?

No, thanks, chum.

You will find him, won't you?

I'm so afraid of that brute getting hold of him.

Now, you mustn't worry. We've sent a message to all stations.

Every man will be on the lookout for him. It's only a matter of minutes.

It's only a train. I thought kids liked trains.

Here, what's the time?

They'll pack up in a jiffy.

Then we can get some bo-peep.

Don't they ever stop here?

Nah, it's been closed for years, then it copped a landmine.

Nobody wants it now, except us, eh?

Oh, I'll take care of it for you.

Come on, Frank, I'll show you around.

Half a dollar and the Duke himself will take you over his ancestral halls.

This is the lift shaft.

There's another platform down there.

(clattering)

(train horn blares)

(Len) Frank! Frank, do you hear me?

I know you're not far away.

Why don't you come on out?

You'll have to sooner or later.

Or would you rather stay down here in the dark?

Maybe they would never find you.

Let's see how smart you are.

You can remember the way out, can't you? Just down that passage and up the stairs.

Or is it that passage?

(chuckles)

They all look alike in the dark, don't they?

You can't even see me, can you?

But I'm here all right.

Frank?

You can stay down here in the dark if you like.

It's all the same to me.

But it's no good.

Do you hear me, Frank?

It's no good.

Help!

Help!

There's a kid on the platform at Western Road.

Trying to get away from a man by the look of it.

(radio) 'Hello, 22 for Zebra and 8V for Victor.'

'Western Road Station. Police help urgently required.'

'A.S.12 refers. Over.'

Message received.

(radio) 'Hello, 22 for Zebra and 8V for Victor.'

'Western Road Station. Police help urgently required.'

'A.S.12 refers. Over.'

(tyres screeching)

- He's all right, sir. - OK, look after him.

Come on, Turner. Give up!

You come and get me!

Crumbs!