Original subtitles

Oh look! They've printed it.

What dear? ─ My poem. In The Morning Post.

Oh .. it looks much better than in Christian's writing, doesn't it?

This is a solemn moment Mrs Drew.

The golden moment in a writer's life.

The moment when he sees his name in print for the first time.

His foot is on the lowest rung.

The ladder stretches up above him. Up and up to untold heights.

Well Christian, can you scale it, do you think?

I'll have a .. decent try, sir.

I can write, I know I can.

Cochrane said I could. ─ Charles Cochrane?

I sent him my play to read. He asked me to go and see him at the theatre.

Is he going to do it?

No.

He said that one day he might be very glad to do a play of mine but ..

At the moment, I haven't discovered pain .. and .. power .. and passion.

Life hasn't hit me with its full glory and .. sordidness.

In short, my play had got no heart.

I'm utterly convinced, and so is your mother.

That great things will come to you in time.

I'm equally convinced that what you need at present is a bread-and-butter job.

There never was an author born into this world who didn't have to eat.

As your late father's dearest friend, I should like to put a proposition to you.

May I Mrs Drew? ─ Yes Vicar, please.

Well, I need a secretary.

If you think you'd care to fill the post.

I promise I'd wink at any lyric poetry mistakenly inserted in my sermon notes.

Thank you sir .. well, that's wonderful.

I've always dreaded working in a bank.

The Vicar's secretary. How splendid.

Then if you find you are not clever enough to be a writer ..

You could always be a clergyman.

Hello Christy .. How's the play?

I'm stuck. ─ Oh, rotten luck.

What's wrong? Is the Vicar smothering your muse?

No, purposely. It's not his fault, it's mine.

I need experience. Experience of life.

It's bad for writers to be sheltered, Robert.

Look at Swiñburne, Buñyan.

Kit Marlowe, roaring and singing round the taverns of Cheapside.

Living and seeing .. and writing.

He had heart alright.

I must say you're ambitious.

Oh shut up. I'm talking sense. You wouldn't understand.

A farmer would.

It's filth that fertilizes and rejuvenates the earth.

Lenten Town.

It isn't pretty, is it Bob.

There's beauty there.

If you can see it.

Do you ever read Kit Marlowe? ─ No.

Would he .. and Shakespeare for that matter ..

Have become the greatest dramatists the world has known if they'd not seen life?

I don't believe they would.

Life doesn't come to you. You have to go out and look for it.

[ Singing ] "Laugh - I thought I should have died. I knocked them in The Old Kent Road."

"Cor' blimey."

May I have a pint of beer, please? ─ Bitter or ale, dearie?

Bitter, please. ─ That will be fourpence, dearie.

Excuse me.

Oh. Very sorry my Lord, I'm sure.

Mind out, ducks.

Stop it Herbie. Here, make him stop it Len.

Herb, we can't take liberties with Frankie now you know.

When you was doing time, she got herself fixed up with something posh.

Jimmy Heal? Since when has a railway man been posh?

How much, Ma? ─ A shilling, please.

Glory be. Still there's plenty in the till.

He tells the cops he's spent the brass from his last job. But look at him now.

He's planted it just like a dog. ─ And dug it up when he come out.

Just like another dog.

Well, was it not worth it? ─ I wouldn't know.

The cops will always come out on top. ─ Says you.

Meet me here in three weeks time and say that again.

Hello, hello. Another job?

Give it a rest. You've been out for half an hour.

Where is it this time? The Bank Of England?

Glasgow. And if we get the stock .. ─ You'll get five years.

Ah kid, it's a cinch. We can't go wrong.

Who's "we"?

Me and my mate Name - Jocko. He's a Scot.

Go on. ─ He's coming here tonight.

He don't ask anyone to do a job with him. He hand-picks his pals.

Me .. I'm hand-picked, see.

Oh well .. here's luck Herbie.

Boy, will you need it.

Go on, hop it then. I want to talk to Herbie.

Alright, I was going anyway. It's my round.

Don't do it.

It's barmy. Every Cop in England has got your picture next to his heart.

Well, so what? If I get another stretch, what's that to you?

I'll not be in about six months and I'll come out ..

Here Frankie, are you stuck on Jim?

He's stuck on me more like. He wants to marry me.

Olive Mockson's stuck on him too.

She'd tear me eyes out if she weren't dead scared of Jim.

I'm scared of him myself. That's why I've got to lay off with you.

Olive Mockson?

That's her over there. The one with the moon face and the double chins.

Ask her if she's stuck on Jim.

I'll take you to the hospital. ─ Here, chuck Jim.

You've got me back now. ─ For how long?

You go straight, and I'll come back.

You'll have me in the Salvation Army next.

Oh Frankie, it's not so easy. ─ Well, I've done it.

That's rich that is. You .. straight? Ho ho.

Go on, laugh. At least I work for my living. And I'm honest.

I may not be so good, but I am honest. ─ Alright .. Alright.

I'm not ashamed of anything I've done.

"Sorry for nothing Frankie". That's me.

I'm "sorry for nothing Herb". That's me.

Here's Jocko. I must hop it.

So long Herbie. ─ So long.

Here, lend us a dollar until next month.

Oh knock it.

Sorry Jocko. Just a friend. ─ Oh aye.

We'll go somewhere where you haven't any friends. Come on.

Can't you look where you're going. ─ I'm sorry.

Never mind, it's spilt now. But it isn't milk.

May I get you another?

Oh the lady would be charmed, I'm sure.

You keep your nose out of this Olive Mockson.

You dressed-up lump of nothing, you.

Hey, you can't ..

Who asked you to interrupt two ladies conversation?

Making trouble between friends.

Getting familiar, eh?

You wait until Jim hears about this you dirty ..

Stay out Frankie, she's not worth it.

Stay out of this and don't interfere.

You're a touch wet, Miss Ketchen.

Wet? You laughing great seal.

You peroxided guttersnipe.

Naughty, naughty. Now wash your mouth out.

No Frankie. She likes gin and ginger!

Look at her fat backside.

Two to one on Frankie!

You .. yellow-headed sausage.

Hoy hoy! Watch that. Queensberry rules.

Stretch on.

Let me go you great boar. You're a lady, aren't you?

This is a free country. I'll have the law on you.

Just let me get at her. Just let me get at her!

No, no, please.

Here, haven't you done enough? Upsetting drinks and all.

Well I .. I did apologize you know.

That's right .. you was going to buy another wasn't you?

I was, yes. ─ You leave that to me.

No, no, please. Don't bother.

How about that drink?

Yes. Why not. I think a drink is clearly indicated.

"Clearly indicated". Ha, you talk funny.

What's your name?

It's .. "Kit".

Like a girl .. Kit what?

Kit Marlowe.

Kit Marlowe .. mine's "Frankie".

Frankie ..

Here's the old Platelayer's Arms. Come on.

No. Let's go somewhere quiet.

Alright .. all the same to me.

I live over there. Number 20 Crayber Square.

Lovely, ain't it?

Do you live somewhere posh as well?

I live in Sarum Hill.

My .. no wonder you talk nice.

Gentleman of leisure, eh?

No .. I'm .. I write.

What do you do? ─ I work at the Station Buffet.

Are you happy? ─ Oh, I mustn't grumble.

Anyway, I'm not in service.

Taking up the morning tea to some old trout who lies in bed all day.

When I take up the morning tea I take it to myself.

So I'm not sorry, Kit.

"Sorry-for-nothing-Frankie". That's me.

Don't worry.

My landlady puts herself to sleep at nights with gin.

Well sit down. Seats are free.

Don't be shy.

You haven't been much with girls like me, have you.

Well, I'm easy, see. I'm just what I look like.

Not like those "inscrutables" you writers write about.

Do you make a living, writing?

No. Not yet.

I'm going to though. I've .. had a poem published.

Go on. Read it to me.

You wouldn't want to hear it. ─ Yes, I'd like to.

Well it's .. it's called .. "Sunset".

So bowed old dame, with heavy feet and slow.

Towards ..

Carry on.

Towards the splendour of the setting sun.

Your poor unworthy piece of day-work done.

There by the shadows of the road you go.

The wind is quiet and the evening still.

And roads so level, that the younger feet ..

Sound brisk and lively, on the hard paved street.

And yet you walk as though you climbed a hill.

Go on.

That's all.

Ever so nice.

Would you like to keep it? ─ Yes.

I'll put it somewhere safe.

Fancy you writing all them funny things.

I keep my treasures behind the grating so I won't forget where I've put them.

You'll go far. I can see that.

I'll take it out and read it when I'm old. And you're famous.

I can't see you .. old. ─ Oh, that's nice of you.

Jim says that too.

Jim don't say it the way you do.

Jim? ─ My man.

He's a fireman.

He's the chap that stokes a fire, not the kind that puts them out.

He's on the Merseyland Express. The 06.10 from Euston.

Does he know ..? ─ That I ask friends in for a drink?

Of course he don't.

If Jim knew you was here, he'd do me good and proper.

Don't take much to make him bash a girl. He's the kind that likes it.

There's some that do.

Oh well, ching-a-ling!

Jim's jealous .. he has to have his own sweet way.

There's no-one worth a row of pins to Jim, but Jim.

The firm that builds them railway engines.

Couldn't make them go without the help of Mr Fireman Jim.

He's the one that pulls the train. The engine only helps him.

Come on sunshine. Give over dreaming of the girl you left behind you.

Stoke her up, or she'll go off the boil.

I don't know what you do when you're taking your friends back for a drink.

Hello ducks.

You were walking out with tarts and railwaymen.

And fixed up with a master criminal I suppose?

Men's all the same. If I go out with you, there's nothing ain't too good for me.

If I go out with someone else, I'm dirt. ─ And so you are!

And who are you, the King of Spain?

Goodnight, Your Majesty.

It don't no good to any girl who thinks respectable, to be around with you.

A petty little sneak-thief, just like his Lordship said you was.

Say it again!

Don't worry, you'll hear it said again. Leicester Assizes.

Shut your mouth, or I'll shut it for you.

See that? He's threatening. Assault and battery.

He's going to murder me, he is.

Cor .. ain't I frightened.

I'm going home to mum.

Now look what you've done!

Murder me ..

Ah .. you'd drive a man to murder.

Here, what's the row?

He's jealous. She don't belong to him.

Ah, stow it, you old ..

Here, cool down old man.

There's a little gentleman.

It's a pity they don't teach manners in the Scrubs.

She's a saucy puss, that Frankie.

Oh shut up about Frankie.

Hello .. it's off again.

I come here for a quiet drink ..

What are they doing about Frankie ..

Who's that?

It's me.

I've just come to say I'm sorry.

You had no call to talk to me like that.

Besides, look what you done to my skirt. ─ Well, I lost my temper Frankie.

Never seeing you these days and ..

And now on the night I'm leaving you're meeting this toff again.

Herb .. let's forget about it.

Let's be like we used to be, eh?

Alright .. who is he, anyway?

Oh he comes from Sarum Hill.

And Herb .. he treats me like a lady.

Holds my arm across the street.

Walks on the outside.

He'll grow out of that.

How old is he?

About twenty-ish. He's clever though.

He writes verses.

Oh .. aren't you getting posh.

And Herb.

He calls me his .. white swan.

His what? ─ His white swan.

Oh love a duck. He must be daft.

What's his name?

Oh come on ..

It's "Kit". ─ Kit what?

Kit Marlowe .. satisfied?

That's the 9:15. Won't be long for the Glasgow train.

Well, I know.

Here, Frankie.

Just in case.

Keep this lot warm for us.

I'll put it behind the grating.

That's just over a couple of hundred quid.

Well, I'll hop it.

Mustn't let old Jocko down.

Our own secret hiding place, eh.

Sure, I'll need all my time.

Herb.

Don't do nothing silly.

Don't worry. It's as soft as butter, and as fat.

I'll come back rich.

Maybe rich enough to have a go at going straight.

Come on Frankie .. give us a kiss.

Well so long, wish me luck. ─ Good luck, Herbie.

Frankie.

I spilt some beer on my dress. It was Herbie's fault.

That was him just now. Come to apologize.

What's eating you?

You got a poem on your mind?

You know, you are strange.

Sometimes I think there's two of you.

One that's saying: "Frankie, you're rotten".

Another one saying:

"Frankie .. I like rotten girls".

Not rotten.

Rotten is mean and vicious and greedy.

You're not that.

You're gay and generous.

And lovely. ─ Well, that's nice.

We've just passed the station. Soon, we'll just been in Liverpool.

And crawling into the pubs in Scotland Road.

Now sunny Jim .. I'm not going to overrun my signal.

Even if you were telling me about that bit of stuff that's waiting up for you.

Keep smiling .. off we go.

You'll get to London Town in time to see who's walking out your girl.

Come on, hurry up sunshine. Or you'll never catch that lodger of yours.

Signing off at 11.20.

Well, we didn't make it in time for the Old Swan.

Still, you're too young. For public houses.

Wait til you get to my age. Then perhaps you can step inside and have a lemonade.

So long, sunny Jim.

It's quiet, now the trains have stopped.

Isn't it.

Sometimes I wish it wasn't.

It makes me frightened.

It's Jim.

Frankie .. let me in!

Alright Jim, just a second.

Come on, open the door or I'll bust it in.

That way.

Will you be alright? ─ Quick.

You've been with Herb.

No Jim, I haven't.

I heard the windows ..

What's up? Been sun-bathing?

I was just .. getting into bed.

You've been seeing double too, eh?

It wasn't Herb. I swear it.

Now .. we'll see.

You liar!

Tell me next time, I'm still in Liverpool.

I told you to lay off with Herb, and I come right back here and catch you.

Now, I'm going to make sure you do lay off with Herb.

[ door knocks ]

Coming.

Who is it? ─ Jim.

I've come to stay .. for keeps.

What you staring at? What's the matter with you?

Nothing.

Give me a drink, I'm done.

Yes, Jim.

I saw Frankie in the pub tonight, with Herb.

They had quite a tiff.

I haven't seen Frankie. I came straight here.

I left the railway depot. And came straight to you.

Christy dear, you were late in last night.

Not so very late, mother.

And here's the Check for my poem, from The Morning Post.

I hope you're going to save it, dear.

No, you have it mother. Please, I'd like you to.

My first. ─ Oh.

How sweet of you.

Well, there will be lots more.

Wait until I've done the play.

You'll never finish a new one at this rate.

It isn't a new one. It's "The Area Steps".

I'm rewriting it.

Thank you, mother.

"Sorry-for-nothing-Frankie. That's me."

I never done it. Honest, Jocko.

Kit Marlowe done it.

I thought Frankie was meeting him after I left.

Och I, I ken, I ken.

I cannot find you doing it, but I'm not the Police.

Your record is not so good. ─ But I've an alibi.

I've been with you.

Och I, I ken, I ken, but then ..

I'm not the Police.

I'm thinking maybe my record is not so good, either.

I'm thinking when you say that you came up to Glasgow ..

On the very night the lassie was murdered.

And you say you came to do a job with me.

I'm thinking the Police maybe will not understand.

Och, well I'm thinking anyway, we cannot do the job now.

Jocko.

If I'd done her in, I'd have taken all my brass now, wouldn't I?

Aye, aye. I ken I ken. But I'm not a Policeman. I keep telling you.

Police will say you did her for the money lost your nerve and left without it.

The Police.

They've got a daft and crazy way of thinking, laddie.

I'll tell them just what happened.

They'll no believe you .. they don't trust their fellow men.

I doubt they'll have a pretty accurate description of your clothing.

Maybe I can fix you up .. and uh ..

With a wee bit of small change too, maybe.

Oh .. oh thanks.

I'll go back to London.

I'll lay off somewhere across the river, where the Cops will never see me

London in big enough to hide me, Jocko.

Glasgow's not so small, you know.

But I know London. London is big.

London's big? You should go to Hampden Park.

"Big murder. Read all about it. Latest on the murder. Read all about it."

"Paper. Read all about it. Murder latest. Read all about it."

Excuse me, Miss.

This shop is shut. ─ Oh Miss, have a heart.

I'm sorry. I'm not working overtime. I've got to get home.

Oh you're the lucky one, Miss. I've not got a home.

I thought maybe you'd fix me up.

It'll cost you a tanner if I do. ─ Well, that won't break my heart.

Not particular? ─ No, no fussy.

I can't afford to be.

Try ..

Jackson .. 17 Ship Lane.

Thanks, Miss. Here's your tanner.

Give it me tomorrow.

If you’re suited. ─ Thank you, Miss.

Goodnight.

Evening, Miss.

I'm sorry, but .. ─ Shop is shut.

Your tanner, Miss. Thank you.

So you got fixed up alright? ─ Sure. I told you I wasn't fussy.

Fag?

I don't smoke.

Are you doing anything tonight?

Have my tea at home.

Tell me Miss, what's your name?

It's Rosie. ─ Rosie.

Why not meet me when you've had your tea?

You aren't half shy.

Maybe I've got another fellow meeting me.

Well chuck him up ..

I didn't say I had. ─ Will you have a drink or two?

I don't drink, thank you.

What about a walk?

I don't .. ─ I don't walk, thank you.

Walk .. where to?

That's up you.

I'm not particular.

"Papers. Murder. Read all about it."

You haven't told me what your name is yet.

"Papers. Murder in London. Read all about it."

Jack.

"Our Father, which art in Heaven."

"Hallowed be thy name."

"Thy Kingdom come."

"Thy will be done in Earth as it is in Heaven."

"Give us this day our daily bread."

"And forgive us our trespasses."

"As we forgive them that trespass against us."

"And lead us not into temptation."

"But deliver us from evil. Amen."

How's the boyfriend, Rosie? ─ Fine.

Here, tell us about him.

Ask no questions Dave, and you'll hear no lies.

Now, what's the matter? Why don't you let us meet him?

Aren't we good enough for your Mr Jack?

Come on Dave, I'm hungry.

Alright, give me those. I'll fill you full of éclairs.

Coming Rosie? ─ No. I'm meeting Jack.

Why not bring his high-and-mighty-ship along?

He don't like éclairs.

"Reward for the capture of Herb Logan. Read all about it!"

"Reward for the capture of Herb Logan. Papers, papers!"

"Read all about it."

Oh, I thought you were never coming.

I'm sorry .. I was kept late at the shop.

Mrs Jackson came in and told me you've moved.

I had to get a place nearer my work.

You .. aren't in trouble, are you?

I've got something I must tell you.

Can you take it? ─ All depends, Jack.

It won't make any difference to us now, will it?

Of course it won't.

Well .. first of all.

My name's not Jack .. it's Herb.

Well that don't kill me, Jack.

Herb.

Now look. Don't you read the papers?

Not much. Except the picture ones.

Did you ever hear about .. a murder?

Down in Crayber Square?

Yes .. Dave and Gracie talk about it quite a bit.

Good riddance to her, Dave said.

She wasn't all that bad.

You knew her?

Yes .. and they've got me lined up for that job.

You didn't do it, Herb?

No, I never did. I swear I never did.

A fellow called Kit Marlowe done it.

Please believe that. Please ..

What's the use of telling me who did it?

Don't you realize every minute you hide away makes it so much worse?

Well, If I'd given myself up, what happens? Can't you see?

They've got a victim.

As long as someone swings, well who cares?

That's what they'll do, and it won't be me. I'll stay out.

I've got to find this Marlowe. He's the one. I've got to find him.

Herb, I'm so afraid for you.

I told you as a secret, between us, because I couldn't keep it to myself.

Well, come to that, no more could I.

I reckon Gracie has saved you from a power of trouble.

That's right, Dave.

It's all been for her good. ─ You never should have done.

Now listen .. I've been looking up the law, see.

"Even if you've given no assistance to a person who's committed a felony."

"Anyone who knows of his guilt commits an offense."

"If they don't communicate the information."

But he swears he didn't do it.

And did you ever see the murderer who didn't swear he didn't do it?

That's right.

You know what you are doing Rosie, don't you?

Keeping information from the Police.

"Accessory" they call it.

And in the case of murder, you could get penal servitude for life.

It isn't true. ─ Oh yes. It's true alright.

I've got it all here in black and white.

Thanks Nicolas. Combe esta, combe ..?

How's tricks? ─ Very grazie, grazie.

Oh gracias. That's Italian for "thank you".

Now look, Rosie. ─ Now listen.

That fellow never should have told you.

As he has, you've got to go to the Police.

But do you really think he would have told me if he'd done it?

I .. I couldn't tell the Police.

Not now they've offered this reward. ─ A hundred quid?

Why ever not? It doesn't do to look a gift horse in the mouth, they say.

But he trusts me.

Dave ..

Besides ..

He's been so sweet to me.

I wouldn't call it sweet. Putting you in a spot like this.

I'd call it downright criminal. Besides, he might do it again.

For all you know, he's working up to have a go at you.

Or anyone!

You owe it to society. That's what I say.

You .. owe .. it .. to .. society.

Gracie ..

What am I to do?

You leave it to me.

When are you meeting him again?

Tomorrow afternoon.

What time? ─ At two.

Where, Rosie?

Where?

In ..

The churchyard.

Newington.

That's fine.

Hello.

Don't you look a treat.

Hello. ─ I tell you something.

I think I'm getting sweet on you.

Here Rosie, give us a kiss.

No, Herb.

Not here. There's people everywhere.

People? They're not going to kiss you. Only me.

Oh, what's the matter?

Why so ladylike?

Let's sit down, Herb.

I'm tired. ─ What, tired already?

Crikey, we haven't even started yet.

Have you ever seen the Crystal Palace?

Yes.

Want to have another squint at it?

Come on, let's go on top of a bus and catch the sun.

I love the sunshine.

It makes me want to holler all the songs I ever heard until I burst myself.

[ Singing: ] "Oh Rosie, this London's a wonderful sight."

Ah don't worry .. the Police have forgotten all about me.

Yes.

Yes Herb .. let's go.

Let's go now, quickly.

You are Herbert Logan? I have a warrant.

Governor, I know who done it. Honest, Governor. I know his name.

That's fine.

You going to be a gentleman and come along with us?

Oh please .. I'll come.

Let me say goodbye to her. She's been real nice to me.

Alright. But get a move on. We've a car waiting.

Well, Rosie.

Looks as though the outing is off, after all.

Here.

Why not do the Crystal Palace trip on me?

No trip ..

Alright.

We'll do it when I've cleared myself. It won't take long.

Say, this day next week. Same time, same place.

Alright

Yes Herb.

Well ..

Goodbye for now.

Nice work, Miss .. thanks.

Herb .. I ..

Alright then. Come along, Logan.

Anything the matter?

No .. thank you, Officer.

Goodnight, sir.

Very well. Now Mr Heal.

Can you tell us of any other men than the prisoner ..

Whom you knew to be acquaintances of Frances Ketchen?

No sir.

Did you hear the deceased speak of her alleged midnight visitor, Kit Marlowe?

No sir. Never.

Never .. thank you.

After you had signed off from the Railway Depot.

Why did you not turn your steps towards the house in Crayber Square?

Because sir, I thought Herb Logan would be there.

And why did you think that?

Well sir, I knew he hung around the moment my back was turned.

Thank you Mr Heal.

No questions, My Lord.

Call Mr John Craigie Glen.

I swear by almighty God the evidence I shall give shall be the truth ..

The whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

Your name is John Craigie Glen?

That's right.

Or "Jocko" to your friends.

Aye. You can call me that if you'd rather. I don't mind.

That's very friendly of you. Thank you.

And now, Mister Glen.

Will you tell the court if Herbert Logan came to Glasgow on the night in question?

Aye, he did.

And will you tell us why?

Aye, he came to .. do a job with me.

A burglary to put it bluntly.

Put it any way you like, sir. I don't mind.

And you came forward as a witness, even though you're a burglar, self confessed.

Hmm .. will you tell us why?

Because I'm not the man to save my skin, and let a lad swing for somebody else.

Just because your English Policemen don't ken their job.

I find the witnesses comments on the Police superfluous.

Aye, I agree my Lord.

Now Mr Glen, is Logan not a friend of yours?

Aye.

He's a decent lad.

And every word he's said in here .. has been gospel truth.

May one ask precisely how it is that you know what he's been saying here?

Aye, you may.

Then what is the answer, Mr Glen?

Perhaps I can provide the answer for you?

The answer is, you both agreed upon the story you would tell in court.

Aye .. aye. That's right.

In this emergency, we both agreed we'd tell the truth.

One final question Mr Glen.

Am I not right in thinking, that at least on one occasion, if not more ..

You have been convicted in the past of perjury?

Maybe I have. But not this time.

Regrettably, I cannot share your confidence.

I'm telling you the truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God.

Thank you.

I knew Herbie well, I did.

We had a pint or two together many a time.

But as I tell his blooming Lordship.

If ever I see a man look murder, it was Herb that night.

Oh, old Frankie would have laughed to see her name in headlines, eh.

I'll tell you something. Herbie is for the drop.

When that lawyer fellow gets started on him, he hasn't got a hope in hell.

He's a right terror, I'm telling you.

Now Logan.

You admit that when you told the Police you never visited the house that night.

You lied.

I put it to that your statement that you went to Glasgow to commit a burglary ..

Is false as well.

No sir! It isn't.

I put it to you that you murdered Francis Ketchen

That you panicked.

And that then, by chance, you found your way onto a Glasgow train.

No sir. I never killed her.

You admit that you quarrelled with her in the public house that night.

Yes sir.

Then presumably, you went round to Francis Ketchen's house and said ..

I'm very sorry I was rude.

Yes sir. I did just that.

Remarkably magnanimous of you, wasn't it?

And then no doubt this non-existent midnight visitor ..

This figment of your fevered mind, Kit Marlowe.

Doubtless, he dropped in and murdered her?

Yes sir.

Kit Marlowe, Logan, was a poet of considerable genius.

Who flourished in the days of Queen Elisabeth.

And although, no doubt, his morals were in tune with those licentious times.

One hardly thinks it likely ..

His spirit would return to earth to visit Francis Ketchen.

In a tenement in Lenten Town.

And yet without one single, solitary shred of evidence,

That is what you are asking the jury to believe.

That Frances Ketchen died from strangulation ..

At the hand of someone who doesn't exist.

But he does exist. I swear he does exist.

Kit Marlowe does exist!

Take him back.

Mister Hall.

Yes, Sir Huntley?

My Lord and members of the jury.

It is not for us.

To consider the possibility.

Or even the probability.

That Herbert Logan ..

Murdered Francis Ketchen.

Our sole consideration.

Must be whether, on the evidence.

The charge ..

That Herbert Logan murdered Francis Ketchen has been proved.

In my submission.

It has not.

Herbert Edward Logan ..

Members of the jury. Are you agreed upon your verdict?

We are.

Do you find the prisoner Herbert Edward Logan ..

Guilty or not guilty of the wilful murder of Francis Ketchen?

Guilty.

And that is the verdict of you all? ─ Yes.

Prisoner at the bar, you stand convicted of the crime of wilful murder.

Have you a reason why the court should not give you judgment according to law?

No. I never done it.

I never done it.

On my oath, I never done it.

No!

Oyez, Oyez, Oyez.

My Lords the King's Justices do strictly charge all persons to keep silence.

While the sentence of death is passing on the prisoner at the bar.

Upon pain of imprisonment.

God save the King.

Herbert Edward Logan.

A jury of your countrymen have found you guilty of murder.

The sentence of the court is that you be taken from this place.

To a lawful prison .. and thence to a place of execution.

And that you be there hanged by the neck .. until you be dead.

And that your body be afterwards, buried within the precincts of the prison.

In which you were last confined, before your execution.

And may the Lord have mercy upon your soul.

Amen.

I should have seen that one. That makes us quits. Okay?

Alright Logan, sit down.

Got enough to read? ─ Yes, sir.

Can't seem to take it in though, sir.

I gather you're not sleeping too well. ─ No sir.

That church clock keeps me awake.

That girl of yours has called again.

Do you still refuse to see her?

Yes.

I see.

Alright .. I'll tell her not to come here anymore.

Did she send those? ─ Don't you like them?

Not if she ..

Alright .. I'll see her then.

Good lad.

Herb ..

Is it .. is it lonely?

No, I've got company.

Don't hate me, Herb.

I don't hate you. That's what makes it worse.

Why did you do it, Rosie?

Why?

Because of things people said.

I got scared.

I know now you didn't do it.

I knew that afternoon in the churchyard.

Too late.

Yeah, I'll say it was.

Still you got your hundred quid.

I haven't touched it.

I gave it all .. to help with your petition.

You should have kept a quid or two back for the wreath.

Herb, don't.

I know it's all my fault.

I ..

I love you.

Here .. cut it out! I can't stand it if you ..

Here, take her out!

Take her away. Take her away!

Whatever happens to you ..

I've always loved you.

"And although I did not kill Francis Ketchen."

"I was in her room, which I have described above."

"After Herbert Logan left that night to catch the Glasgow train."

It is signed .. "Kit Marlowe."

Well Ainsley?

It isn't evidence. The Home Secretary can't act on that.

No. I'm afraid you're right.

Of course, you've always been convinced that Logan didn't do it, haven't you?

Yes, always.

Still, you had too good a case.

Why can't the fellow come forward. ─ Well, they never do.

Probably someone with "a place in life" to lose.

And how is that petition doing? ─ Fine.

Well that and this between them, might carry some weight.

Maybe.

I never slept a wink last night, and when I did I dreamed of her.

I'm off my grub and all. ─ Pity you ain't off the beer.

You turn it in.

I only told the judge what I've seen.

You ain't the only that who sees things.

I seen her one night before she copped it. With a fellow.

And it weren't Herbert Logan either. ─ And you never told the Police?

I don't like publicity.

I don't like to see a fellow swinging for a job he never done.

If I told the Police it wouldn't help him, then?.

It might and all with this. ─ What's that then?

A petition, that's what. Here, you sign.

Right here. Eliza Samms.

Be alright to put my mark? ─ Yeah.

Here, come on boys, I want you to sign this petition for Herbie Logan.

Hey Harry, come on over here.

Logan. I have received this communication from the Home Office.

I'll read it to you.

The Home Secretary advises His Majesty to commute to penal servitude for life.

The sentence of death passed on Herbert Edward Logan.

Hello Rosie. What you done with all your money, ducks?

She's going to take me to Monte Carlo. Ain't you?

What's the matter Rosie?

You been backing the horses and done it all?

"Read all about it. The Logan case. A statement. Read all about it."

"The Logan case. A statement. Read all about it. Read all about it."

"Logan case. A statement. Read all about it."

Logan!

Logan.

You can't keep me here. I'm innocent. ─ Now, come on, Logan.

Don't let it get you down. ─ But I never done it. I'm innocent.

Look here Herbert Logan.

I won't punish you this time, but if you don't behave yourself I'll ..

But I never done it! I'm innocent.

Will you be sensible.

Sir, I am innocent.

That may be so, and it may not.

In any case, it is no concern of mine.

My job is to point out to you that even when you've done your 15 years.

When your case comes up for review.

You won't get out of here unless your conduct sheet is pretty clean.

I see, sir.

Prisoner .. right turn.

Quick march!

This fellow Drew wants watching. He writes poetry in prose.

I'm going to tell the British public it is a first class play.

Then it's bound to be a flop.

Hello Rosie .. how you keeping? ─ Fine.

Did you get my letters? ─ Yes, Herb.

It's no good. I'll never give you up.

I keep thinking of what's best for you. ─ I love you.

I know what's best for me.

I don't want anything else.

Lovely.

Such a wonderful sense of freedom.

What's the matter, darling?

Mary.

I want to marry you, but ..

Well .. but what?

I don't deserve such happiness. ─ Perhaps you don't.

But I do.

I've always dreamed about a white house.

Oh what a marvellous view.

You can see the whole of London.

Let's call it High Grove. ─ High Grove.

Do you really like it, Mary? ─ Oh, I think it is wonderful.

Well, Logan, now it's up to you.

Have you got any plans? ─ Yes, sir.

I'm going to prove I'm innocent.

You're a funny chap. Been in here for 15 years and never lost your faith.

Well, goodbye.

And good luck.

Herb. ─ Hello.

You never said it was today.

Just look at me.

That's all I want to do.

Rosie.

Come on, please.

Give us a kiss.

Fifteen years.

I've got my dinner on.

I'll get you something, too.

Don't you like it?

I like it alright, but ..

My tummy might get sore taking all my prison meals in one.

Well eat it up and take your tummy surprise.

Herb.

Will you get a job alright? ─ Well, it's not so easy.

Prisoners don't take the knock inside.

It's afterwards.

I've saved a bit. The laundry doesn't pay me bad.

When we get married. ─ What?

Why, you wouldn't want to marry me. ─ Why not?

Well, how would you like it? "There goes Rosie Logan."

"Her old man's just out prison .. for murder."

It isn't what people say.

It's what I know myself.

Grand .. that's what you are, Rosie.

Sorry Logan, but ..

We've nothing for you. Come again next week.

I've heard that for a year and more.

Look, since I come out I've only had one job and that didn't last.

I know. ─ As they got to know about me.

I've a wife and kiddie. They sacked her when her boss found out about me.

You've got to give me something.

Mr Logan, we're doing all we can.

But we've no powers to make employers give you work.

Don't move .. that's good.

That's very good.

Your face has character, my friend.

I'll paint you .. come tomorrow.

No.

I'll paint when the russet leaves of autumn fall.

Come back six months from now.

Excuse me Guv, but do you live here?

If any artist can be said to live .. I do.

Why?

Do you like the house? ─ I don't say I like it, but I know it.

Everybody does .. for many years ago ..

A girl was foully done to death in my own room.

That's why I live here, brother.

There's nothing like a murder on the premises.

For keeping down the rent.

Forgive me .. I must return to work.

Remember .. when the first leaves fall.

Then you and I will give the world a masterpiece.

In the meantime, I've a railway poster to complete.

Goodbye .. a railway poster!

Oh Herb, you must be soaked.

Take off your coat and come up to the fire.

Any luck? ─ No.

How's the kid?

What's up? Have you been crying?

Is he worse?

I always said this place should have been pulled down years ago.

If we want Jack to get better, we must get him out of here.

Yeah, we must move.

How can we?

Rosie, maybe that money is still there. Maybe ..

What money?

The money I gave Frankie the night Marlowe done her in.

It was hid in the room in Crayber Square.

That was sixteen years ago.

Well, there's no-one has lived there since, except a crazy painter bloke.

He wouldn't see a pot of gold if it leapt out of a hole and clipped him one.

How would you get it?

Well, I can't ask him for it, can I.

No.

Don't do it, please.

If you get caught they'll send you back to prison.

Then what will become of Jack? ─ It's him I'm thinking of.

He's got to grow up strong and healthy in a decent home.

If the money is still there, it only wants picking up.

I'll just be collecting my pay packet after 15 years of breaking stones.

Aren't you going to wish me luck?

Good luck Herb.

Herb.

Herb!

Come back!

Come back!

Herb!

Who's there?

Pretty, pretty, pretty.

You pretty .. pretty, pretty.

Pretty .. pretty .. meow.

Miaow.

Rosie.

Evening, Logan.

I'm Detective Inspector Benstead. Remember me?

Yeah .. it was you that picked me up.

What do you want?

I've been checking up on you at the Labour Exchange.

I had a talk with the Borough Surveyor. He'll give you a job.

Go and see him tomorrow morning. ─ Strewth!

I wouldn't have believed it of a .. ─ Of a Copper?

Wouldn't you?

I've got a wife and kiddie, same as you Logan.

Goodnight.

Thanks. Goodnight. ─ Goodnight.

When I saw him at the door I nearly died. ─ So did I.

Here .. open it.

It's wonderful, Herb.

Tomorrow, we'll take look around Park Lane.

What's that?

It looks like a bit of verse.

"So bowed old dame."

Oh, it doesn't mean anything.

"So .. bowed old dame."

"With heavy feet and slow."

"Towards the splendour of the setting sun."

The poor unworthy piece of day-work done.

By the shadows of the road, you go.

Fill Jack's bottle will you. The milk's hot enough now.

[ Radio: ] "All I want is to be happy. Always be as happy as you can, I say."

"Well, then there was a real set-to. He started shaking me."

"He was just going to lash out at me when I ran out of the house. For good."

"Are you sorry? No, I mustn't grumble."

"At least I'm honest."

"I may not be so good, but I am honest."

"I'm not ashamed of anything I've done."

"Sorry-for-nothing-Millie. That's me."

"Sorry-for-nothing-Millie."

"You have just heard the first part of The Area Steps"

"The famous play by Christopher Drew .." ─ Give me the bottle.

What did he say? Christopher .. something.

Where's the Radio Times?

"Adapted for broadcasting by the author."

"The second part follows after an interval of ten minutes at 7:40."

Here Rosie .. look here.

"The Area Steps by Christopher Drew."

That's him .. Kit Marlowe.

What makes you so sure? ─ Why, that's just how Frankie talked.

It's him alright. I know it is.

Have you got "The Area Steps" by Christopher Drew?

Oh no, that's a very old play. It's out of print.

Anything by him would do.

We have some of his poems.

A newly published volume in the collected works.

It has only just come in. ─ Thanks, mate.

"A great reckoning in a little room."

It's a line written by Shakespeare about a fellow dramatist called Marlowe.

Marlowe!

Where can I find out more about this bloke Drew?

He's got two columns in Who' s Who.

Who's what? ─ Who's Who.

It's a .. kind of record of successful people.

Written largely by themselves.

Drew. Christopher.

Born.

Educated.

Grant College, Sarum Hill.

Locations .. plays .. homes.

Address.

High Grove.

The treasury that gave us Shakespeare.

The treasury that gave us Shaw.

And, shall I say it? Yes, why not?

He's given me a box for the first night of his new play.

The treasury that gave us Christopher Drew.

Ladies and Gentlemen.

And those with their elbows on the table.

I give you the toast of Christopher and Mary.

Coupled with a toast of Christopher's collected poems.

Christopher .. Mary.

Christopher .. Mary.

And those with their faces in the fruit salad.

I thank you for your .. friendship.

On my own behalf .. and Mary's.

Though deeply grateful for the fame and ..

To put it bluntly, cash, my plays and books have brought.

The things I value most ..

Are seated around this table now.

My wife.

My children.

All of you.

Bob .. Annie. ─ Yes, Bob and Annie.

When I look round and see you all.

I think .. how lucky I have been.

And no man .. least of all myself.

Is worthy of such luck.

There is a candle there for every one of daddy's books.

Just think of writing all those books.

Just think of reading them.

If you don't shut up, I'll make you read them, one by one.

Come on Dad, no cheating.

Blow them all out with one huge blow.

Come on then, all together.

Goodnight father. ─ Goodnight darling.

Goodnight, Daddy.

Excuse me sir. A man came to see you. He was hanging about the gardens.

What sort of man? ─ Rough. Didn't like the look of him.

Did he give his name? ─ Logan. Herbert Logan.

He said he'd call back later.

I'll see him, if he does.

[ Door knocks ]

That's likely to be him now sir.

Mister Drew?

Yes?

I'm Herbert Logan.

Who?

Don't you remember me?

No, I'm sure we've never met.

No, we've never met before. But I've been looking forward to it.

It's kept me going, thinking that. For sixteen years.

Fifteen of them in jail.

Mr Logan, would you kindly tell me just what you've come to see me for?

You were Kit Marlowe, weren't you?

The only Kit Marlowe I know of ..

Died in the reign of Queen Elizabeth. ─ I heard that at the trial, thank you.

Frankie told me all about you.

Frankie? Who's Frankie?

The girl you strangled down in Crayber Square 16 years ago.

You were Kit Marlowe and you murdered Frankie.

Mr Logan, I'm afraid your imagination is running away with you.

I heard your play on the wireless: "Sorry-for-nothing. That's me".

That's what Frankie always said.

I found out other things as well.

You were twenty-one. Just what Frankie said.

You went to school in Sarum Hill, just like she said.

And she also said you were coming in that night.

You are him.

I know you are.

How dare you come here, talking like this.

As an author I'm accustomed to being pestered by lunatics, but it's too much.

Will you go at once. Otherwise I'll be obliged to call the Police.

You call the Police! I'll give them all the proof they want.

You mean this story about the girl being in my play?

All authors Mr Logan ..

Find their characters identified with people they never knew existed.

I was 21 sixteen years ago. So were several thousand other people.

I went to school in Sarum Hill, because I lived in Sarum Hill.

A lot of people do, you know.

I hate to say this, but you run the risk of being certified.

Will you kindly go.

I'm mad am I?

Well, perhaps I was, to think you'd come forward now.

What killer would?

You .. are .. clever.

Frankie said you were.

You've got all the answers pat.

I admit I could never prove you were Kit Marlowe, but I know you were.

So do you.

I swear it.

As God is my judge and yours.

One day He will judge you.

One moment.

There's just one point about your case that occurs to me.

I seem to remember that there was a woman who ..

Let's see.

Yes, here we are.

Olive Mockson.

She testified that a certain fireman on the railway.

A mister .. "Heal".

Could not have been with this ..

Frankie, at the time that she was murdered.

As he was with her.

I don't understand.

An alibi, Logan.

If this Olive Mockson was in love with Heal.

That alibi might not have been too sound.

Worth considering, do you think?

He'd undoubtedly be guilty of assisting of a felony.

Prosecutions for that are very rare.

But the cove in your play would be absolutely ruined.

Let an innocent man rot in prison rather than stand up to a justified disgrace.

The whole of society would be after him.

The papers .. the fellows in Parliament.

No-one would have the slightest mercy for him.

The disgust of his fellow men would follow him to the grave.

And yet.

That is how I imagined it would be.

Now Harry, give the pubs a miss or if you can't, we'll stick to lemonade.

I never touched a drop until I become a driver.

Well, so long sunny Jim. ─ So long.

Be careful if you can't be good.

Are you Jim Heal?

That's me.

It's Logan .. Herb.

You clear off. There's no-one wants to mix with you.

I've got some questions I want to ask you, Mr Heal.

Who is it? ─ It's alright, Olive.

My missus wouldn't like you hanging about here, Logan.

Olive?

Olive Mockson? Is she your missus?

I'm sorry, I can't help you.

I know who done it, Jim.

I've found him.

Turn off that noise.

Well .. what's that got to do with me?

[ Off ] "I know who was with Frankie that night."

"A writer named Drew. Christopher Drew."

"He was with her alright."

"Well, even if he was, nobody knew too much about .."

You got no proof about this Drew.

Why the Cops would laugh at you.

Detective Inspector Benstead don't though.

The Cop that picked me up. He listens to me.

Always gets a bit too sentimental when you mix with Coppers, it does.

Well, supposing Drew had been with Frankie?

Just supposing he knew who it was that done her in.

Why, I've only got to force it out of him, see.

Then I've got what I want.

I'll tell you something.

That fellow Drew will talk one day.

I'll make him.

Sure as I'm standing here.

You're wasting your time, mate. Drop it.

Here.

Knock this back.

Still fond of you wallop, eh? ─ Yeah, when I can get it.

I'm a scavenger, not an engine driver.

I'd say it's been tough for you.

Pretty awful if you never done it.

There's only one thing kept me going.

The certainty that one day I'd find the real murderer.

Look mate, I always thought you done it.

Well, what else was I to think?

I want you to know that I don't bear you no malice.

So, what say you, if I try to fix you at the depot, with a job?

There's more dough in that than street-sweeping.

A railwayman, huh?

I can use some extra dough.

Yeah. Well, you can get enough to buy yourself and pint and forget all this.

All gone and done with.

Tell you what.

I'm going to see Charlie now. He's the foreman.

I'll speak to him about you.

So we'd better meet up at the Old Wild Swan

Oh no. I'm never going in there until I've put myself right before the world.

I'll walk in there again one day.

Come to think of it.

Why not come along and see Charlie with me?

Why not?

I'm going down the depot.

I'll .. take a look at the boiler before I go.

I shan't be long.

If you get fixed up alright.

We can celebrate with a wet, at the Platelayer's Arms.

Come on.

That's not the way to the depot, is it?

We go by the tunnel. Saves time.

Ain't half raw.

Rawest night this year, I bet.

Here, hold this while I light my pipe.

So you killed Frankie!

Frankie's dead. I warned you not to wake her up again.

And now, I'll just make certain she surely doesn't.

Wait.

There's someone.

I got to do right by.

Get the Police. Quick.

And he confessed?

Yeah, he confessed, but even that's not good enough.

Detective Inspector Benstead says lots of people, when they're dying ..

Confess to murders they never did.

We've got to get corroborative proof he said.

And how would you get it? ─ From Mr Drew.

I'm seeing him tonight. I phoned him at the theatre. He's rehearsing a new play.

I said I'd got to see him.

Something new, that concerned him.

Get a taxi says he, and wait for him outside the theatre.

We'll go somewhere quiet.

Somewhere quiet?

I'll take him somewhere quiet.

Aren't you going home, sir? It's getting very late.

Don't worry sir. People are saying it's the best thing you've done.

Goodnight sir.

Goodnight.

So this is where you live?

Yeah.

This way Mr Drew.

Why not sit down? The seats are free.

It was Jim Heal that ..?

Yeah, it was.

He confessed in the presence of witnesses.

Does that clear you? ─ Not yet it doesn't.

I need proof .. I need a word.

Just one word from someone else.

Who?

You, Mr Drew.

Jim Heal said he killed her because she was with another man.

All you've got to do is say it was you.

It was you, wasn't it?

Logan .. you've accused me of murder.

Now you accuse me of being with an unknown woman in a room I've never seen.

Haven't you, Mr Drew?

Look .. look around.

Can't you hear her?

Can't you hear her laughing the way she did?

"Sorry-for-nothing-Frankie." Didn't she say that to you?

Didn't she?

If you're not going to talk, I'll bet there's something here that will.

Frankie had a hideaway somewhere.

Somewhere where she kept her valuables, like.

Under the boards maybe.

Didn't you never give her something, Mr Drew?

I bet I could find something if I looked.

Have you read Heal's confession? ─ Indeed I have.

I've got a copy.

Can I see it? ─ Sure, I'll get it.

"Fancy you writing all them funny things."

"I'll put it somewhere safe, and read it when I'm old."

"When you're famous."

Is this what you were looking for?

This poem you wrote?

What's it got to do with ..?

It's proof you've been in this room before.

We're quite alone.

And that's how it's always going to be until ..

Just you and me, until you'll want to tell the truth.

I was here that night.

But ..

I could never make you understand why I've let you suffer like this.

I was young .. ambitious.

My life then was so sheltered, narrow-minded.

I had not only myself to think of.

Then.

Once I'd started, it became more difficult.

Worse, and worse.

I know I can't make it up to you, but ..

You can have all the money you need.

Money.

I don't want your money.

Logan, it's my wife and children against yours.

I've gone so far that I can't go back.

I'm not going to speak. ─ You're not going to?

I'll do anything else you ask me, but ..

Not that.

Well, Mr Drew.

Maybe now you'll feel some of the things that I felt for sixteen years.

In the end, justice has caught up with you.

I wonder how many of us would have had the courage.

Hello brother.

Is everything okey-doke?

What?

Yeah .. yeah, it is.

I must .. ─ I say.

When the first leaves fall ..

I'll show up, to be sure and thanks. Thanks a lot.

Rosie!

Rosie!

Rosie!

I'm cleared, Rosie.

Herb, how wonderful.

I think I'm going to cry.

Ah, you're a terrible female, Rosie.

Crying when they're going to top me.

Crying when I'm going to prove I'm innocent.

I bet you have hysterics when I get my pardon, love.

T-G