Original subtitles

- Morning, Davis. - Good morning, sir.

The commissioner sent this down for your immediate attention, sir.

It's just come across from the prime minister, 10 Downing Street.

Oh.

Davis, bring me the personnel file

for the Government Research Laboratory at Wallingford, will you?

What's the name of the fellow who's in charge of it?

Uh... Dolby, sir. Dolby.

- "Professor Dolby, born 1894--" - All right, all right.

Hello? Get me Professor Dolby

of the Government Research Laboratory at Wallingford.

Yes.

What do you make of that, Davis?

Another one for the loony bin, I suppose.

Yes. Still, it's a new line, isn't it?

No abuse, no obscenity.

Just a polite, well-written note from one gentleman to another.

Posted last night. Sunday.

Hello? Oh, yes.

Hello. Professor Dolby?

This is Superintendent Folland here, Special Branch, Scotland Yard.

Yes, sir. I believe you've got a Professor Willingdon on your staff.

Is he with you this morning?

Yes, I'll hold on.

What dope have you got on Willingdon, Davis?

"Willingdon, John Francis. Born 1893.

Second son of George Arthur Willingdon, Bishop of Hampton,

and Mary Helen Hartley.

Educated Rugby and Cambridge. Natural Science Tripos, 1921 prizeman.

Oliver Chair of Physics, Birmingham, 1927-32.

Assistant Director of Research, Cavendish Laboratories, Cambridge, until 1940.

Member of the British team for New Mexico, 1943.

Appointed senior research worker at Wallingford, 1945."

Hmm. Hello, yes?

He's not with you?

Have you any idea where he is?

I see. Look, sir, I shall have to speak to your chief security officer.

Would you get me put through, please?

- What do MI5 say about him? - Nothing at all, sir. Clean sheet.

Mm. Hello, Farrer. Look, this is Folland here.

I've got to speak freely, so I'm coming off this line. Stand by, will you?

AX2.

Hello, Farrer, can you hear me?

Good. Now listen, Farrer, we've got a letter here

that your Professor Willingdon is supposed to have written to the prime minister.

It may be a hoax, but I shall have to ask you to make a magazine check at once.

Yeah. When was the last count?

I see. Yes.

Yes, as quick as you can.

It's the simplest way out of that one, I think.

It reminds me of the fellow who kept writing to the archbishop

during the Lambeth Conference.

Mm? What was that?

Called himself Solomon Eagle.

Went about dressed in a goatskin and a pair of sandals.

You remember. When we finally caught up with him, he'd painted himself blue.

And was trying to set fire to St. Paul's.

Yes. You know, this chap's done it very well.

Did you notice the address?

- He's used a real embossing stamp. - Has he?

Folland here. Yes, Farrer.

What?

Last night? Hold on.

Quickly, Davis. Lay on a couple of cars and four men.

Now listen, Farrer, I am coming down.

Until I arrive, nobody must enter the place or leave it.

And there must be no discussion. I'll be with you in an hour.

Your pass, please, sir.

Right. Thank you, sir.

- This photo anything like him? - Yes, yes, quite.

- Has he the run of the place? - Of course. He has the run of the place.

And why shouldn't he? I mean, nobody would question him.

He's our senior research worker.

He was working here until lunchtime yesterday.

If he came back after that, your own police would have a record of it?

Yes, yes. Everybody's checked in and out.

Check up with the local security, then, Rogers.

The letter was posted at Paddington last night.

- Has he a car? - No.

And Rogers, check up at the railway station too.

Yes, sir. Sorry, sir.

- Sorry. - Ah, come in, Lane.

This is Willingdon's personal assistant, Stephen Lane.

Oh, good.

My name's Folland. We're police officers.

- Scotland Yard, Special Branch. - Oh?

When did you last see your Professor Willingdon?

We were working here together until lunchtime yesterday.

- Since then he's been working at home. - No, he isn't at home.

We've lost him, and we want to find him quick.

Lost him?

Mm. He didn't sleep at home last night, and he hasn't been seen since.

You've been with Professor Willingdon long?

Yes, about five years.

- Ever go to his home? - Yes, fairly often.

- Friend of the family? - Yes, I am.

What's that got to do with it?

Just answer the questions.

When you last saw him, did he seem to be quite normal?

- Of course. - He wasn't overworked?

Well... not more than any of us.

I see.

Look here, sir. We shall have to go to his home and see his family.

- I'd like Lane to come with us. - Certainly. By all means.

Come on, Lane. Come on.

I say, is this something pretty dodgy?

Dodgy? Hm. Could be.

- Steve! - Hello, darling.

Ann, this is Superintendent Folland from Scotland Yard.

- Good morning. - Oh, how do you do?

Do come in.

Carter, Thompson.

- Sit down, Mr. Folland. - Thank you.

- I'm afraid Daddy's not in, Steve. - Yes, we know, Miss Willingdon.

We wondered if you'd any idea where he is?

I'm afraid I haven't.

He's awfully vague, you know.

I daresay he'd ring up shortly and ask what's for lunch.

Of course, he might have gone into Oxford.

Oh, without saying a word to anyone?

Good heavens, yes. If he missed his train last night,

he wouldn't phone because of Mummy.

- Oh? - She's practically an invalid.

Get through to Oxford, Carter. Talk to Maxted.

Very good, sir.

You sound very serious.

Has something happened?

What is it, Ann?

It's Daddy, Mummy.

Steve and Mr. Folland here are rather worried about him.

Worried? Why should they be worried?

Your husband's a very important person, Mrs. Willingdon.

We have to take great care of him.

- What was he wearing when he went off? - His dark gray suit.

And of course his old raincoat. He never goes without that.

- Mm-hmm. Any hat? - An ordinary gray felt.

- I see. Did he take anything with him? - He may have done.

He has a little suitcase, a sort of Gladstone bag affair for his night things,

which he often takes to the laboratories with him.

If he was busy, he often slept at the labs.

I see. Thompson, send that description out to all stations.

Right, sir.

You know the kind of work he's engaged on, of course.

Does he ever discuss it with you?

I'm afraid it would be a rather one-sided discussion.

I see.

Thank you, Mrs. Willingdon. Sorry to have disturbed you.

Just a minute.

I think you've heard something about my husband that you haven't told us.

You needn't be afraid to tell us, you know.

I can see that.

If he does get in touch, as you seem to think he will, please let me know at once.

- You'll find me there. - Thank you.

Steve! Steve, what's all this about?

I don't know, it looks like a security job.

Perhaps your father's taken some drawings or papers by accident.

- Don't they trust him? - It's not that, darling.

It's just that we're so damned scared, we can't trust anybody.

Now don't you worry too much. And let me know if you hear anything.

- She's a nice girl. - I've always thought so.

Lane, you'll have to come back to London with me.

Why London?

Because that's where I think we shall find him, and you might help us do it.

- Where's your billet? - In the village.

While you collect your things, I can put a call through.

Drop me at the laboratories, take Mr. Lane to his digs,

wait for him, and then come back and collect me.

Whatever you say, of course.

But don't you think it might be better if you put me in the picture?

All right.

Willingdon has stolen a UR12 bomb from the magazine at Wallingford.

What?

He's also written a personal letter to the prime minister.

He says that unless it's publicly announced that Great Britain

will stop making any more such weapons,

he'll set it off and destroy what he calls the seat of government.

- But a UR12 would wipe out half London. - Exactly.

If the prime minister doesn't make this announcement,

your professor says that he'll explode the bomb at noon on Sunday next.

- Today's Monday. - I can't believe it.

How big's a UR12?

About the size of a portable typewriter.

In fact, he could easily have slipped it into a small suitcase.

Yes.

No, we haven't had a new vehicle since '45.

If we'd had full strength, we shouldn't have had the men to maintain them.

So it's no use bellyaching about that.

Will you wait in here, please?

- Hello, Grant. - Good morning, sir.

Good morning, sir. Any idea what's on?

No, sir. Simply got a message from the PM's secretary.

- So did we. - You're transportation, Grant.

- When's the army gonna get some new stuff? - Oh, can't afford it, sir.

False teeth and wigs come first nowadays.

Well, Prime Minister, my information is--

and perhaps Leith out here can confirm it--

that a UR12 exploded on Westminster Bridge

will lay flat an area roughly from Rotherhithe to Notting Hill Gate.

That is so.

Well, any possibility of a hoax can now be ruled out.

Willingdon has disappeared and has presumably taken a UR12 with him.

One question remains: Is he bluffing?

Young man wants a haircut.

You know, I saw me old staff car again the other day, swear to it.

Do you know what it was up to? Towing a damn trailer round a fairground.

Would you believe it?

A UR12 is actuated by an Aston Blaire time mechanism, sir.

Once the mechanism has been started,

the explosion can be set to occur anytime within 15 minutes.

Is there any chance of it exploding prematurely?

Not accidentally, no, sir. You see, there are two separate components.

One's quite useless without the other.

Of course, the time mechanism can be set

to operate instantaneously at the touch of a trigger.

At least there's no question of Willingdon planting the thing

and leaving us to find it.

No. Find Willingdon, and presumably you'll find the UR12 with him.

A full description's already gone out, sir.

And in an hour's time, we start a thorough comb-out.

I see.

All right, thank you, Folland.

Grenville, ask General Willoughby and the others to come in.

- Oh, Lane? - Yes, sir?

You've been working with Willingdon for a number of years, haven't you?

- Yes, sir. - Hmm.

Tell me, what are his political interests?

Political interests?

Well, sir, I think his main one was...

keeping away from politicians, sir.

Wise man. Thank you, Lane.

It's quite clear, gentlemen, that we daren't gamble

on the hope of the commissioner here finding this man.

I've therefore asked our military advisers to come here

so that they can prepare an immediate plan.

Ah, General Willoughby, come in.

- Will you come and sit beside me, General? - Yes.

Gentlemen, you'll find chairs.

Davis, anything come in? Sit down, Lane.

- Only Rogers' report from Wallingford. - Let's have it.

On the night of the incident, half past 7:00 approximately,

the missing person, Professor J.T. Willingdon,

is known to have left his home, Green Gables in the vicinity of--

You're not giving evidence, Davis. Let's have it in English.

All right, sir.

Well, the next thing is that round about eight o'clock, he's at the vicarage,

enjoying a quiet game of chess with the local incumbent.

- Vicar. - Well, vicar.

Apparently, he's not a bad hand at chess.

I expect that's on account of his mathematical brain, you see, sir.

Just the facts, Davis. Just the facts.

All right, sir.

Well, after about half an hour,

he leaves the vicarage and sets off for the labs.

According to the record at the gate, he was admitted at 8:50,

left again at 9:05.

He was last seen catching the 9:25 for Paddington.

That's a slow train. Got in that night at 10:50.

That's the lot, sir.

- Do you know this vicar, Lane? - I've met him. His name's Burgess.

He's the last person we know to have spoken to Willingdon.

I'd better see him. Lane, you'll have to come with me.

I've got another job for you.

- Where are we going? - Back to Wallingford.

Now, listen, Lane, what I'm after is some clue to Willingdon's motive.

Has somebody put him up to this?

Go through his papers with a tooth comb,

and if you find any reference to anything or anybody

you can't understand, let me know.

And, Lane...

- Don't tell them anything. - Right.

Drive on.

Is anyone at home?

Excuse me. Can you tell me where I could find the vicar, please?

Yes, I'm the vicar.

Oh. Sorry, sir.

Oh, don't apologize. I know, you took me for the builder's mate.

I'm afraid I'm fighting a losing battle with this place.

I no sooner patch it up here than it falls down somewhere else.

What can I do for you?

My name's Folland, Superintendent Folland.

You saw one of my men this morning, Sergeant Rogers.

Oh, yes, yes. So you're from the police too, are you?

That's right. I'm afraid I've come to bother you with a few questions.

Oh. Well, we're in a bit of a muddle this morning here, I'm afraid.

- But do find yourself a seat somewhere. - Thank you.

Well, what's it all about?

You're an old friend of Professor Willingdon's, I believe.

Yes, I am.

And he came here last night?

- Yes. - Did he stay long?

No, about an hour or so.

Did he seem to be quite himself?

Yes, I suppose so.

You sound doubtful, Vicar.

Do I? Oh, no, no, no.

As far as I could tell, he was quite himself.

Was there any special reason for his visit?

Oh, no. We play chess together two or three times a week.

We played last night.

What did you talk about?

We, um... talked about private matters.

Look, Vicar, it's vitally important that you tell me everything you know.

Superintendent, John Willingdon is not only one of my oldest friends,

he's also one of my parishioners.

I have no right to betray his confidence.

Now look here, sir. This is a matter of the greatest urgency.

Willingdon has disappeared, and I'm going to be quite frank.

His disappearance endangers the national safety.

National safety?

What is it you want to know?

What I'm trying to find out is his state of mind,

what his intentions were, and I have very little time to do it in.

The state of his mind?

Now, there I may have misled you, Mr.--

- Folland. - Mr. Folland.

To be quite truthful, when I said good-bye to him last night,

I did feel decidedly uneasy...

as indeed I frequently felt during the past months.

For a long time now, I've known that John was a very troubled man.

Yeah? In what way?

Oh, how can I put it?

I think he'd lost faith.

I think he'd lost all faith he once had in the value of his work,

and he was wondering more and more where it was leading us all.

Yes?

I feel he looked to me for help.

I wish I could've helped him more.

But he was so alone, Mr. Folland.

He was isolated by the very nature of his work.

Do you mean he thought that his work was being put to the wrong use?

Yes, I do.

And he asked me a question last night which I found it very difficult to answer.

Oh? What was that?

He said, "What would you do if you were convinced

the results of your life's work were being put to an evil purpose?"

- And what did you say? - What could I say?

If you and I were convinced of that, Mr. Folland,

wouldn't we do all in our power to oppose that evil purpose?

We should have to be very sure, Vicar, if we were in Willingdon's position.

Yes, I told him that.

But in a last resort, every man has to act according to his own conscience.

Did it occur to you last night that his mind might have become unbalanced?

No, I wouldn't venture an opinion.

But if it had, perhaps we're to blame.

For after all, Folland, we've placed on his shoulders this intolerable burden

and left him alone to deal with it.

- I say, Steve. - Yes?

This is extraordinary.

Here.

Look at that.

All that scrawl across Daddy's writing.

Here's another one.

Wait a minute.

This is Daddy's writing.

May I have a look, please?

Thank you.

"Dark, dark, dark, amid the blaze of noon."

This your father's writing, Miss Willingdon?

Yes, but I don't understand.

He wouldn't do that.

Mr. Folland, do you think he's ill?

Yes, I do, Miss Willingdon.

That's why we've got to find him quickly.

Lane, we'll take these with us.

Judging by these, the old man's been heading for this breakdown

for quite some time.

I can't understand why none of us noticed anything.

Well, that's how it happens.

Repressing a fear is like trying to hold on the lid of a boiling kettle.

Something's got to go eventually.

Oh, what's this?

- It's part of the comb-out. - What happens exactly?

Oh, they take an area, they work through it systematically,

and then they start all over again somewhere else.

It's a tedious business.

The men don't enjoy it.

Nobody enjoys it.

Let me see the hotel register, please.

Excuse me, sir.

Well, I'm damned!

Just a minute, please. Let's have a look at you.

Look here, I wasn't in ten miles of Freeman's Wharf last night!

On my life, I wasn't. I was over at Harringay with Smiler and Joycie Morris.

I don't know nothing about no cigarettes!

All right, get on with your game. You may win a packet.

If it's love that you want

Then it's love that you'll get, my baby

Police. Open up.

But if pearls are my price

Then you'll tell me, "No dice"

It's the love of the Lord up above

Oh, that's the Seaman's Mission, Salvation Army, Church Benevolent.

That leaves Rutton House. Then we can go to bed. Come on.

Well, there's your haystack, Lane.

And believe me, it's a damned small needle we're looking for.

Paper! Paper! Star News Standard.

Paper!

Paper! Paper!

Star News Standard. Paper!

Star News Standard. Paper! Paper!

Star News Standard. Paper!

No, I never was one for hair on the face, not even in me younger days.

A clean upper lip shows you've got nothing to hide, I always says.

Yes.

I wonder what you're doing to bring your hair back on top.

Nothing.

Ah, we'll have to do more about it than that, you know.

- Wait a minute. - No, thank you, I'm rather in a hurry.

I recommend this tonic. Grow hair on an elephant.

If you please, how much do I owe you?

Bob, sir. And I warn you, if you do nothing about it,

you'll get as bald as a coot in no time.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

Next gent, please.

Come on, good girl!

- Yes? - Mrs. Peckett?

- Yes. - I saw your advertisement.

The furnished room.

Oh, the first floor front. Yes, it is vacant.

Well, come in, please, will you, while I shut the door.

Thank you.

Down you go, Wendy.

Shoo.

I don't mind the gentlemen going out,

but I'm a bit more particular about my young ladies.

- My cats, you know. - Oh, yes, of course.

How long would you be wanting the room, Mr.--

My name's Richardson. I'd like it for a week.

- Ah, only for a week? - My work will be over by then.

Could I see the room?

Yes, I can show it to you.

Don't think me inquisitive. I'm not.

But I just wondered what sort of work is it you do?

I'm working at the British Museum. Research.

Oh, yes. I thought perhaps you might be an actor.

And of course, I won't allow theatricals in the house.

I quite understand.

Oh, the trouble I've had with that lot you wouldn't believe.

- Now, this is the room. - Thank you.

Ah, there's Bunty. Never know where you're gonna find her.

Shoo, Bunty. Get off the bed! Go on.

- Well? - Well, I think this'll do me very nicely.

Oh, yes? Well then, what about attendance?

- I can arrange a very small breakfast. - Thank you.

Ah, well, then I shall want your ration book for that.

Oh, yes, of course.

Hope you'll be comfortable. It's my mother's feather mattress.

On second thought, I don't think I'll bother about breakfast.

I shall be going out very early in the morning. I can get it at the ABC.

Just as you please.

In that case, the room alone is 22 and six in advance.

You understand it is customary, Mr., uh--

Richards.

- I thought you said-- - Richards.

- Oh. - Thank you.

Come on, Bunty.

Oh, there's Amber.

Naughty! She's forever in the beds.

Well, it is quite aired.

But I'll put you in another bottle for tonight.

- Thank you, Mrs. P. - You'll be all right?

Thank you, yes. Thank you, Mrs. P.

Come along. Amber, Bunty!

- I don't get it. - You don't have to.

What's the idea?

The prime minister's asked every London daily to carry it tomorrow morning,

without comment.

- Okay? - Okay.

The horse came forth,

a red horse,

and to him that sat thereon...

to him that sat thereon, it was given to take the peace from the Earth.

And there was given unto him a great sword.

Thus with a mighty fall shall Babylon the great city--

Babylon the great city be cast down.

Shh! Down, Penny.

- Yes, Mrs. Peckett? - I-- You--

You're still awake, Mr.--

- Yes. - You can't sleep?

Please don't concern yourself, Mrs. Peckett.

When I have a problem on my mind, my brain is clearest in the small hours.

- Good night. - Uh--

Good night.

Hello? Get me the Pretoria Road Police Station, quick.

Yeah? Oh. She's here.

- Yes, show Miss Willingdon in. - I thought she would be.

She's no fool, Folland. She knows there's something up, something pretty big.

What are we gonna tell her?

I'm not sure yet.

Come in.

- Miss Willingdon, sir. - Ah.

Hello, Miss Willingdon.

I know I shouldn't be here, Mr. Folland.

But Mother and I read the papers this morning,

and it's obvious that you're holding something back.

I do think I ought to know. After all, he is my father.

Now, look-- Come and sit down.

You mustn't think that we don't understand your feelings.

And we're anxious to avoid causing you any unnecessary distress.

The fact is, we've discovered that for the past few months,

your father's been working under a severe strain.

But he showed no sign of it at home.

Nevertheless, you can take it from me that it was so,

and I'm afraid it's been too much for him.

Are you trying to tell me that his mind is affected?

I'm afraid so.

But what does it all mean?

Ministerial discussions on a high level?

- Look, Ann, isn't that enough? - Oh, please.

Mr. Folland, tell me.

All right, Miss Willingdon.

I think the best way I can tell you is by showing you your father's letter.

It's addressed to the prime minister.

Oh, Daddy.

Taxi!

Clifts Hotel, Bayswater, please.

Steve, I still can't believe it.

Daddy's such a gentle person. He wouldn't hurt a fly.

I can't help blaming myself, Ann.

Working with him day after day, I should've realized he was overdoing it.

I wish I could talk to him.

- I know he'd listen to me. - Now, darling.

Ann, look!

- Steve, it's Daddy! - Stop, driver. Stop!

Final call!

Mind the doors!

Daddy!

Daddy! Daddy!

Steve, it was him. It was Daddy!

Come on! Quick!

Good-bye!

- Oh! - Sorry.

Thank you! What, has the world come to an end or something?

I'll repeat that.

To all districts, divisions and subdivisions:

Professor J for John Willingdon...

...train proceeding in the direction of Charing Cross.

The time was approximately 11:40 hours.

Description as previously issued,

except that Willingdon no longer has a mustache.

It is believed that he may be carrying a small black...

- I say, Sarge. - Uh-huh?

This statement of Mrs. Emily Georgina Peckett of 70 Clisby Road.

What about it?

Well, the lodger's been acting queer and been putting the wind up her.

Name of Richards.

Just take a dekko at this description, Sarge.

Five foot eight, gray felt hat,

dark gray suit, raincoat, medium build,

brown eyes, aged about 60.

Well, it doesn't sound like the landlady killer,

but it could be this professor fellow we've got to pull in.

Aye, it might be worth checking up. Good.

- Just thought I'd mention it, Sarge. - I said good, didn't I?

What do you expect me to do, pin a medal on you?

- No, Sarge. - All right, I'll send round a car.

Remember the last time we was doing this, Charlie boy?

1940, bringing the boys back from Dunkirk.

That's right. Well, what's up now, then?

Blowed if I know.

Come on, you two. We're moving off in half an hour.

They leave flippin' buses standing here, hail, rain or snow,

and then they expect the flippin' wheels to flippin' turn!

We should have joined the flippin' navy, Ozzie.

Too flippin' true!

I just had it on the ticker. Yes, I've got it here.

"As from 1200 hours on the 20th instant,

no continental arrivals will be accepted.

All such aircraft will be rerouted to B7372.

All runways, landing, and servicing facilities will be placed at the disposal

of the air minister for RAF Transport Command."

Well, what's it all about? What's going on?

Trixie!

- Trixie. - It's quite all right.

I'm afraid she's ever so friendly.

- But I'm very fond of dogs. - I can see that!

So can Trixie. Can't you, darling?

See, now your mother's got to pick you up. Oh, you silly little Billy!

- After you, dear. - No, no, please.

Oh, well, thanks ever so much.

But look, Mr. Cooper, there's a mark on the bottom.

And if I was to give you more than five bob,

that's what I should get on mine!

All right, my dear. Bless you, I'll take it.

Five bob, Bert.

- You in a hurry, dear? - Oh, no, you were first.

Oh, well, thanks very much.

There you are, my dear.

- Hello, Miss Goldie. - If you don't mind.

- Won't keep you a moment. - Come down, Trixie.

Been a nice, warm day again today, hasn't it?

Yes, indeed. It's been a wonderful summer altogether.

But it's surprising how chilly the nights can get.

- Don't you think so? - Yes.

Soon be wearing our coats again, I suppose.

Horrible thought, isn't it?

Funny enough, that's what I came in to buy. I left my coat somewhere.

Stupid of me. I... can't remember where I left it.

Forgot your overcoat? Ooh. Quite the old professor, aren't you?

- What? - Don't you know the old joke?

Absent-minded!

Yes, I suppose so.

- Is this the one, Miss Goldie? - Ah, that's the ticket.

Thank you.

Oh, do you mind?

Just slip it across my shoulders, would you?

Certainly.

Things looking up in the theater business, Miss Goldie?

Ooh, they certainly are.

They're sending up The Quaker Girl again.

I'm just going round to see Hamilton and Howard about my old part.

- Glad to hear it. - How do I look?

- Fine. - Good.

Well, thanks ever so much for holding her.

She's taken a fancy to you, all right, hasn't she?

Haven't you, Trixie! Oh, you saucy girl!

Shake a paw with the gentleman.

Well, so long. Thanks ever so much.

- Thank you. - Come on, Trix. Come on, darling.

Got an idea she was in the original show, you know.

Wears well, don't she?

What can I do for you, sir?

I wonder, do you have an overcoat that would fit me?

I should think we could manage that. Get a rough idea of the size.

Let me see.

Here's the output of the Western Traffic Area, Midland red.

Let's have one of each for teleprinters, and three for circulation.

- All right? - Yes, sir.

- This has just come in, sir. - Hello, Fanshaw.

- This take you back? - Just the job, sir.

Good show.

Hello, operations. Hello, operations.

Five Corps Headquarters calling.

First and second divisions moved off

from lying-up areas at 2000 hours. Over.

Any news?

All this because of Daddy.

Look, Ann, I think I'd better take you home so that you can get some rest.

Rest?

Well, we're not doing very much good staying here, are we?

You're quite right, Steve.

You know, I'm just beginning to understand

the strain that Daddy's been going through all this time.

Come on, Ann.

- Now, I tell you, they can't see you. - Oh, is that so?

Well, let me tell you, I was in the business

before you were dry behind your ears!

And you can tell your Mr. Hamilton and your Mr. Howard

I wouldn't be seen dead in one of their rotten shows.

- Hello, little girl. - Not if I was starving!

- Oh, you wouldn't, eh? - No, I wouldn't!

- All right, all right. - Trixie!

Trixie! Trix?

Oh, there you are!

How do you do?

Well, if it isn't you again!

Now, you haven't been following me about, have you?

Oh, my dear young lady, I assure you--

Course you haven't. It's only my little joke.

I'll tell you what, if you're quick,

you'll have time to buy me a drink before they close.

Come on. I can do with one, I can tell you.

I've just been in there telling those so-and-sos

what they can do with their quivering Quaker girl.

I tell you, there won't be no declaration of war this time.

Someone presses a button, and it's good-bye, Sally.

- Hello, Goldie! Haven't seen you for ages. - Evening, all!

Sit down, Trixie, darling. Now, what am I going to have?

- I know. A nice glass of port, dear. - And you, dear?

A glass of port, and I'd like brandy and soda, please.

- Three star, love. - Thank you.

Glad you looked in tonight.

AI's being a proper misery this evening.

All right, you don't have to believe me. Here, Fred!

Fred.

Tell 'em what you saw on your way in this afternoon.

What, them ambulance trains? The sidings at Clapham Junction are full of 'em.

- All lettered up and everything. - There, you see? Ambulance trains.

They haven't been out since Dunkirk.

Army lorries belting down all the arterial roads.

Cabinet meetings all round the clock.

Go on, now say the balloon's not going up.

Oh, so what? There's nothing we can do about it, is there?

Do about it? I'll tell you what we can do about it.

Just for a change, we can press the button first.

Load fifty ruddy great bombers with a couple of hundred atom bombs.

We got 'em, you know. There's no doubt about that.

We've been turning 'em out like pineapples for the last five years.

Load the ruddy planes and blast their big cities to hell.

- What do you say? - No.

Eh?

I mean, you don't understand what you're saying. People don't, you know.

- Don't understand what? - Well, can't you see?

What you're suggesting would mean the total destruction of mankind.

That's what they said before the last lot. I tell you.

You'll never stop wars. There'll always be wars.

I'm afraid I can't discuss this with you anymore.

Well, there's no need to take it personally, now.

Here. Don't go upsetting yourself over him.

He doesn't mean any harm, you know, dear.

He doesn't know. How can he be so sure, so certain?

Oh, it's just his silly way.

He ought to be made to think about the things he says. Night after night.

Never mind. Don't worry. Drink up. Let me buy you one.

No, thank you. Nothing more.

- As a matter of fact, I must be going, I-- - Time, gentlemen, please.

I haven't found a hotel for myself for the night, yet.

- You've left it pretty late, haven't you? - Yes, I suppose I have.

All glasses, please, ladies and gents. Glasses, please.

Okay, Fred. Here you are.

Come on, we'd better get, then. Where's my bag? Come on, Trix.

- Good night, darling. - Oh, good night, love. See you tomorrow.

You wait till I get you home.

- All right, my dear. - You won't be saying all right.

Look, as you haven't settled anywhere to stay tonight,

I can fix you up at my place.

Oh, nothing posh, you know, Still, not so bad.

- No, really, I don't like to impose. - Now look here. Don't you be so silly.

I know you're an educated man, a gentleman.

But if you haven't anywhere to go, it's the only thing to do, isn't it?

- You can pay me whatever you like. - That's really very kind of you, but I--

but I really don't like to trouble you.

Oh, it's no trouble at all. Come on, dear.

Oh, oh, excuse me.

Who's that to, a lady friend?

As a matter of fact, to the prime minister.

Oh, you are a one! Here, let's take this taxi.

Taxi! Taxi!

Jump in, Trix. 38 Lennock Road, Kennington.

Come on.

Oh, it was a lovely tour, all number one dates.

Come in, dear. Shut the door.

- I'll show you the way, shall I? - Thank you.

Well, as I was saying, it was a lovely tour.

When we got to Liverpool, the leading girl got ill.

I had to go on for her. My dear, was I a success!

Well, they all said they'd never seen the part played like it before. Never.

Of course, I actually thought she wouldn't come back again,

but she did and how!

She was dropping to bits, but she would go on.

Come on, Trix. Excuse me, I'll just find the key.

Wait till I light up, dear.

You've got to be a cat not to fall over something in this place!

That's better. Take your coat off.

Make yourself comfortable.

I'll just get Trixie her dinner. Then we'll have a nice cup of tea.

I'll just put the kettle on. It won't take a minute.

Trixie, aww, my hungry girl.

Mummy won't be long.

I'll just put the kettle on, and then you shall have your din-din.

Din-din! Ohh!

Ohh, lovely! Come on.

Come along! Take your coat off. And put your silly old bag down.

In which room shall I be sleeping?

I mean, where shall I put my things?

Well, that's the only bed apart from mine. It's quite comfy.

- If that's what you want. - Thank you, yes. That'll be splendid.

You are a funny sort, you know that?

- What are you looking at now? - London.

London. She either makes you or she breaks you.

That's what they always say.

There you are. Midnight.

- Another day gone. - Oh, don't say that.

Another day begun, that's what I always say.

I'll go make some tea.

"Dear Miss Goldie, I have had to be on my way.

I shall not be seeing you again,

but my thanks for your kind hospitality."

And two pounds!

Good old sport!

This letter, posted in South London, arrived this morning.

It says, simply, "There will be no discussion.

Either the government will make the pronouncement that I've already asked for,

or accept the grave but inevitable consequences."

It seems incredible to me the police have failed to find this lunatic.

- Hear! Hear! - Hear! Hear!

It might've been more helpful if we'd given the press and the public

the true story right from the start.

Well, it's a question of panic, you know, really.

The true story could easily paralyze the whole city.

But your alternative amounts to the same thing.

Not quite. The search is going on with the utmost vigor,

and the commissioner tells me he still has hopes of finding him.

However, we can't take chances.

Now, these folders that you'll find in front of you

contain the plan that we've adopted.

Before we discuss these measures, Prime Minister,

I would urge most strongly that a statement is made,

either through the press or over the air,

as soon as possible, and the sooner the better.

Already to my knowledge, the wildest rumors are in circulation.

We are interrupting programs at this point for a special announcement.

The prime minister will speak on a matter of grave national importance

at one o'clock today.

He has particularly asked that all those who have radio sets

should open their doors to those who have none,

whether they be friends, neighbors or passers-by in the streets.

I'll repeat that. The prime minister will speak...

You wanna know why the cabinet's meeting now, don't you?

You wanna know why the prime minister's gonna speak to the nation at one o'clock.

Well, I'll tell you.

There shall be wars and rumors of wars.

Got a job for the War Office about half past nine.

You know, corner of Cadogan Square.

I says, "Any news about this here ultimatum?"

- What'd he say? - Nothing.

My place in the country is slap in the middle of the reception area, blast it.

The whole place is simply plastered with signs. And they're moving troops.

Where on earth are they rushing troops to?

I was in the war office the other day, and I heard...

- Hear that, Jack? - What?

- The Russians is moving troops. - No!

Yes, I just heard it.

I don't like the look of it at all.

Still, they was good enough for ENSA last time, old boy.

I think you'll be good enough for ENSA this time!

Then why's Bert's got this meeting at the garage?

Perhaps they're just coming out on strike again, that's all.

I think it's something worse.

I said to Bert, if it is, I says, "Then you're not going, not this time," I said.

We're interrupting programs at this point for a special announcement.

- The prime minister will... - There it goes again.

Do you know what I think?

I think he's going to give another of them savings talks.

Anyway, ducks, we'll soon know now.

- We'll soon know now what it's all about. - That's right. Wonder what it is.

I hope it's not what you been thinking it is.

Go on! Oh, something.

This is London.

Here is the prime minister, the Right Honorable Arthur Lytton,

to speak to you from 10 Downing Street.

It is my unhappy duty to have to tell you all

of a grave emergency that has arisen during the past week.

I wish to preface my remarks, however,

by assuring you that government plans to overcome this emergency

are already in operation

and require for their success

only your calm and dutiful cooperation.

Many of you will know that part of the Government Research Station at Wallingford

has been turned over to the development of new weapons.

One of our leading scientists, a Professor Willingdon,

who has been working on this development,

has removed one of these weapons from our control

and has presented the government with an ultimatum to this effect:

That unless this country publicly renounces its intention

to manufacture all such weapons,

he will proceed with a plan of his own...

which can only be described as diabolical.

I have to tell you that all our efforts to discover the whereabouts

of this unhappy, misguided man

have so far been unsuccessful.

However, the development of these weapons

isn't our choice, but our necessity.

And if Professor Willingdon is listening to me,

I beg him to understand that were we to bow to his threat,

we might well be exposing this country,

indeed the whole of the free world,

to a danger far greater than any that confronts us now.

If the professor thinks that such a gesture on the part of this country

would effectively appeal to men of goodwill

over the heads of their own governments,

he ignores the fact that such an appeal could be-- and would be--

withheld from millions,

shut off as they are by rulers who control their newspapers, their radio,

their every movement.

Our recent history has taught us that to make ourselves weak

provides an irresistible temptation to the tyrant.

I'm now going to tell you the exact nature of the present danger.

Using one of these new weapons,

Professor Willingdon intends to destroy the seat of government

at midday next Sunday.

He will endanger an area of approximately 12 square miles.

We've decided that this area will be evacuated

and that within it,

a state of martial law will exist from this moment.

In a few minutes from now, you will hear details and instructions

about the evacuation scheme.

This is a colossal task.

It will demand sacrifices and hardships, but it will save lives.

I will remain at 10 Downing Street until the evacuation is complete.

One last word:

Should the danger be averted during this period,

the all-clear signal will be sounded throughout the area.

Remember, once again, the eyes of the whole world will be upon us.

This is London.

Please stay tuned in.

You are asked to have paper and pencil ready...

- I'm getting out of this. - ...to take down instructions.

Paper! Paper!

All about it! Evacuation official.

Paper, paper! Evacuation official.

Paper!

I said, "I can fix you up, if it's just a matter of accommodation."

How did he seem? Ill?

Well, maybe. He seemed tired.

But he didn't do nothing. I mean, nothing queer.

Wait a minute, though. It's just coming back to me.

That's right. He said he was posting a letter to the prime minister.

Ooh, I remember I laughed at the time.

Oh, I see. Now, this bag he had with him.

Did you have the opportunity of going through it?

I certainly did not!

Well then, did you happen to notice what he had in it?

He behaved like a gentleman to me, and I treated him the same way!

I'm sure you did. But can't you tell us anything

that might help to discover where he's gone?

If only I could, dear, I would.

But he didn't say anything. Truly, he didn't.

I made him a nice cup of tea, cheered him up a bit, you know.

And the next morning he was gone. He left me this note.

That's his writing, all right.

- Anything else? - Oh, well...

he did leave me a little something.

- Just for the room, you know, dear. - Quite.

Well, I don't think there's anything else, Mrs. Phillips.

You know what to do if you catch another glimpse of him.

Won't be much chance of that. I'm getting out of here.

I'm off to Aldershot. I got friends there.

- Yes, sir? - Show this lady out, please.

Oh, well, good-bye. Good-bye, dear.

I do hope you find him soon.

Come on, Trix.

And good-bye to another chance of finding him.

I don't see how we're ever going to stop this thing happening.

I think it's time you went back to the country.

- Don't you, Folland? - No. I'm not sure that I do.

What?

Twelve noon on Sunday. That leaves us just over 48 hours.

In about half that time, most of the area will have been cleared.

Then we can really get to work.

A situation might easily arise

where Miss Willingdon would be of more use than any of us.

- That is, if you'd take the risk. - Of course.

Good. And cut out the alarm and despondency.

Both of you.

The evacuation will begin at 8:00 a. m. tomorrow.

During the remainder of today, civil defense officials and the police...

- Isn't it terrible, dear? - Yes. What do you think of it?

Have you got your evacuation card?

I'm not gonna hang around for anything like that.

I'm off now. I'm going to Aldershot.

Aldershot? What are you going to do there, dear?

Entertain the troops.

Oh.

Go on, Trix, out the way.

Left his bag.

Please don't touch that.

It mustn't go off too soon.

Do you mean...

It might, you know, if we don't take care.

I thought you weren't coming back here.

I had to come back. I'm sorry. I've nowhere else to go.

Well, I'm getting out.

I'm not staying here!

I'm afraid you have to stay.

I can't afford to take any chances now, can I?

- But-- - You're in no danger.

Please believe me.

But you must do as I tell you.

If you don't, if you make one move

or utter one word to betray me,

I shall be forced to detonate that weapon immediately.

And for you and thousands of others in this area,

there'll be no chance of escape.

Right away to areas H, L and M.

Hello? Area H, this is headquarters.

Please report progress. Over.

Yes. That is an order.

Attention, please.

All passengers are reminded

that under the evacuation regulations,

they can only be allowed to travel with enough luggage

to meet their immediate personal needs.

Any additional property, such as pets,

pictures, household furniture or sporting equipment

are strictly forbidden.

That's the lot! Next train in five minutes!

You'll all get away shortly. Take your turn, madam.

Oh, please let me go!

- I must catch this train! - I'm sorry.

I'm sorry. You'll get away all right. But you must take your place in the queue.

Nice room, nice hotel near Brighton. Twenty quid a night.

Three nights. Who wants it?

Nice room, nice hotel. Twenty quid a night.

Near Brighton. Three nights. Who wants it?

- Come on, Alf. Hurry up. Come on, hurry. - Oh, you're all right.

Come on, hurry.

Come on, son, up the apples you go.

Come on, gran, upstairs only. Mind yourself.

Mind that passerby.

Sorry, son, no chickens.

What do you mean, I can't take my chicken?

All right, dear. Ernie, you talk to him.

- He can put it under the seat, can't he? - Sorry, mate. Orders is orders.

No cats, dogs, mice, rabbits or chickens. Give us that chicken, son.

They'll soon be gone now.

- Would you like a drink of milk? - Thank you.

What is it?

I told you to go before we started. Now you can wait until we get there.

That's all, you little devil, you.

Just a minute. Can't take these things with you.

You've read the instructions, haven't you?

I can't go without my tennis racket and my fishing tackle!

I'm sorry. Orders is orders.

I've never heard such Bolshevik nonsense in my life.

Where does he think he's off to, Olympic Games?

I think he does, somehow.

Okay?

All aboard the Skylark!

- Please stop that bus. - Too late, lady. Sorry.

My little girl's on that bus! I went back to get her doll.

Oh, what am I going to do? I never ought to have left her.

Now, don't you worry. She'll be all right.

Here, hop up on one of these. They're all going to the same place.

I've got my orders. I don't care what the wages of sin are.

You're not getting on the bus with those boards. Now come on.

Another four, please.

How much longer are you gonna keep me here?

I've told you, as soon as I hear from the prime minister.

The prime minister? You heard what he said, didn't you?

He's not gonna take notice of a crazy old fool like you!

You're off your rocker, that's what you are.

Right off your blooming rocker!

Everybody out of here?

I'll go and see what's happened to the old woman on the first floor.

Yeah, you'd better check up on that Mrs. Phillips too.

I ain't seen her yet.

Hurry up, missus. The bus is waiting.

No-one's up there. Mrs. Phillips has gone to Aldershot.

Oh, thanks.

- They've all gone from up here, Joe. - Okay.

Come on, ma. Give us your bag. I'll give you a hand.

They've all gone.

Here's a late bulletin which has just come in.

With 72 hours to go, we've just checked all London's civil atomic defense centers

and learned that the evacuation of this capital city is proceeding smoothly

and slightly ahead of schedule.

Meanwhile, I've just come back from watching

a continuous stream of one-way traffic,

choking all the arteries leading from the city

with a tide of human cargo seeking safety in the country.

Transport of every description has been pressed into use,

from special pullman trains and military trucks and buses,

down to pathetic, little overloaded horse carts and broken bicycles.

The few treasured possessions of a population

forced to flee the mad ultimatum of one man.

Yet this complete exodus of the world's largest city

is being carried out coolly, resolutely and without panic.

Come on, ma, wake up. You shouldn't be here now, you know.

Here, take this ticket and report to the evacuation.

And you, pa. Come on.

The next train serving area H,

sections six, seven, eight and nine,

is now pulling into platform ten.

All evacuees for this area, please hurry along.

Hurry along, please.

Here, you can't go on the train with them boards. Go on, hop it.

Has that information come from the mayoress?

Yes, yes.

- Okay, Gladys, your turn to sleep. - Is it light outside?

Yes, dear. It's a beautiful day too.

You're still so sure, aren't you?

Supposing the prime minister doesn't do what you say?

- He will, you'll see. - Yes, well, supposing he doesn't.

Are you really gonna set that thing off?

- Yes. - But that's what you say you don't want.

That's what you say you're against!

What good's it gonna do you or anyone else?

And do you think I haven't thought about all this?

I've had plenty of time to think about it, you know.

Month after month, isolated, alone,

knowing you're developing a power greater than man has ever dreamt of.

Isolated. I'd isolate the lot of you in the ruddy zoo!

Why'd you start this science lark in the first place?

Why did I start? Why?

When I was young,

I saw in science a way of serving God and my fellow men.

I wanted to serve.

Now I see my life's work used only for destruction.

The dream has become a nightmare.

Well, you're not gonna help people by busting up their homes and their lives!

The whole blooming country, as far as I can see.

It's better for a city to perish than the whole world.

Well, why pick on London? What's poor, old London done?

All over the world, people are moving like sleepwalkers towards annihilation.

Can't you see that?

If London must be destroyed, it will awaken the rest of mankind

to the misuse of powers that might've brought them happiness.

People can be happy, all right. We don't ask so much.

It's you and your sort, inventing things, interfering with nature,

that's what's causing all the trouble.

No, you don't understand, do you?

Of course you don't. Silly of me to expect it.

But some will.

Perhaps some of my fellow scientists will understand...

and take courage from my example.

Well, gentlemen, the area is now clear.

And the position is this:

four divisions are extended around the perimeter.

In a few moments, the start signal will be given.

Each platoon will work slowly towards the center,

along its own fixed lanes.

As the perimeter decreases, units will be forced to double up,

and so, increase the thoroughness of the check.

These circles here, marked inside the perimeter,

are report lines at regular intervals.

They are known by code names

and will enable us to keep tabs on the whole operation.

All units down to sections are equipped with short-wave radio.

Now, it has been impressed on everybody concerned that if Willingdon is located,

no direct action will be taken by them.

They will report back here,

and you specialists chaps will take over immediately.

Then, if time permits, all troops will be withdrawn from the area

and it'll be up to the death-or-glory boys.

Thirty seconds to go, Wilson.

- That's the advance, sir. - Advance, Sergeant.

Stephen Lane, who was Professor Willingdon's assistant,

has volunteered to lead the party.

He will be responsible for neutralizing UR12,

if and when we can lay our hands on it.

He tells me it's a simple job that can be done quickly.

I just hope he's right.

Folland's plans for dealing with Willingdon, you already know.

You will be ready to move off at a moment's notice.

And now, gentlemen, before you go,

I know the prime minister would like to say a few words.

Thank you, Willoughby.

Gentlemen, I shall be quite brief.

All of you have volunteered for a duty

which, within a few hours, you may be called upon to perform.

On its success may depend not only the existence of this city,

but also, in a sense, the future of our country.

Anybody in the snake house, Johnson?

Only the sergeant major, sir.

- Right. Well, now search the monkey hut. - Right, sir.

All change!

Jones?

Hey! I told you to search, not soak.

You're on a charge. Come on.

Blimey, what a ruddy stink!

- Who done that? - Come on.

It's only the automatic still working.

Thus, with a mighty fall, shall Babylon the great city be cast down.

Party, halt!

You two men take the far wall over there.

You two men, take the bottom house, there.

Brown, you go into that house, number two.

You two men, take that house there.

All right, carry on.

You fellas look along there. Come on, Sam.

- Got a light, Rusty? - Yeah.

- Been upstairs? - Nah, a lot of flippin' eyewash this is.

- Waste of our ruddy time. - You're telling me.

- Here, have a drag. - Ta.

- Blimey! - Come on!

Well, I--

- What are you doin' here, lady? - Where is he? Where has he gone?

- What are you doin' here? - Has he gone?

What are you doing here? I said.

What am I doing here?

What am I doing here?

All right, remember now,

when you get to the ration lorry, have your mess tins ready.

Eat your grub quick, and no grumbling.

May be the last meal you'll get.

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

163 Brigade reporting. Battersea area clear. Off.

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

79 Brigade reporting.

Kensington area clear. Advancing into Belgravia.

What about my car to Aldershot? You said you'd--

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

54 Brigade reporting.

Lambeth area clear.

Advancing into Westminster.

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

1-5-2 Brigade reporting. Clerkenwell area clear.

Advancing into Westminster.

What about my car to Aldershot?

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

147 Brigade reporting. Pimlico area all clear.

Have joined up with 145 Brigade, and now advancing into Westminster.

Oh, to heck with it!

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

56 Brigade reporting. Soho area clear.

Now advancing into Westminster with 55 Brigade on our left. Off.

Party, halt!

Party, halt!

That's half past 11:00. This ain't soldiering.

They ought've had us out of this hours ago.

- Both streets clear, sir. No sign of him. - Right.

That leaves the church and the house on the corner.

Take the rear section, and search the house. I'll deal with the church.

- Put it down! - This ain't no time to take chances, sir.

Outside, Jackson, quickly!

Stay on the door, Jackson.

Here, give me that.

Hello, headquarters. Hello, headquarters.

Man discovered, St. Stephen's, Westminster.

Man discovered, St. Stephen's, Westminster.

Think he's RD2.

Lane. You know who I want. Quickly!

What about my car to Aldershot? What about--

Oh!

Quick, Lane, make sure it's him.

- Is it Daddy? - It's him, all right.

In that case, I'm getting my chaps out of here straightaway.

- It's now up to you, Folland. - Right, sir.

- Just leave us this section. - All yours.

- Now, you know what to do. - Yes.

- Feeling all right? - Yes, I'm all right.

Good girl. Off you go.

Quickly! Come on, jump up.

Daddy?

Daddy?

Ann! What are you doing here?

I've come to take you home, Daddy.

My dear, I can't go back now.

But, Daddy, please. Let me talk to you first.

My dear, there isn't the time.

What do they think they're playing at? We'll all go up in a minute!

But, Daddy, please.

No, no, no.

- But you could change your mind. - Not now.

It's too late.

Stephen!

What are you doing? What are you doing?

Steve! Daddy, please!

Daddy, no! No, Daddy, no!

No! Too late! Too late!

Too late! Too late!

Too late! Too late!

Too late!

Aldershot!

I want to go to Aldershot!

Oi! What about me?

Aldershot! I want to get to Aldershot!

Ohh.

Oh, Trixie!

What are we gonna do?

Trixie, we're going home.

Come on, Trix.