Original subtitles

They Met in the Dark (1943)

Well?

No sign of the escort, sir.

The destroyer was to pick us up from Point Harvester.

We passed Point Harvester an hour ago.

Yes, I know.

I don't understand it.

I don't like it.

Green, 4-5, periscope, half.

- Action stations! - Action stations!

- Hard to port! - Hard to port, sir.

Yes, it's a U-boat alright.

And us with no escort.

And then?

After the submarine moved, it hit us.

Where were you at the time?

Up to my neck in cold water, sir.

Yes, I mean, what was your approximate position?

I'd say latitude 60, longitude 30, sir.

About an hour sailing past Point Harvester.

Thank you.

Do you wish to cross-examine this witness?

No, sir.

The case for the prosecution is closed, sir.

You may give evidence on your own behalf if you wish,

but if you do so, you will be liable to cross-examination.

I wish to give evidence

and I have no other witnesses for my defense.

I wouldn't want to be in his shoes.

In them?

You're not good enough even to clean them.

- Pipe down, Mansel.

My evidence is very brief.

I can only that I received my sealed orders in the normal way,

opened them as soon as I arrived onboard my ship

and followed them to the letter.

Do you wish to cross-examine the accused?

No, thank you.

- Will you sum up? - Certainly, sir.

I will try to be as brief as I can.

The accused is charged with wilful disobedience of orders:

When acting as convoy escort,

he deliberately took his ship off its course,

contrary to the specific written instructions of his superior officer.

As a result, one merchant ship was sank, and another damaged.

You've heard the men who gave Lt Commander Heritage his orders,

testify to what those orders were.

And you've seen a copy of the orders.

Now, what is the accused's defense?

In substance... either that all his superior officers are liars

or that his copy of the orders was faked or substituted.

When challenged to produce these other orders,

which he insists he received, he was unable to do so.

Why?

He says they've disappeared.

They can't be found.

Again, why?

I say, for the all too obvious reason that they don't exist.

In this case, there is not a shred of evidence.

Nothing in his favor, except... and I say this willingly,

his past record.

That is why, as an old shipmate and friend,

I find it hard to ask you for the unfortunately quite inevitable verdict:

of guilty.

Please read the sentence to the court.

The court, having found that the charge against the accused is proved,

adjudges him, the said Lt Commander Richard Francis Heritage,

Distinguished Service Cross, Royal Navy,

to be dismissed from His Majesty's service.

Remove the accused.

The court is dissolved.

How did it go, sir?

They didn't believe a word I said.

I can't say that I blame them.

- I can't understand, sir. - I have no proof.

Thanks, I can do with one of that.

Lippinscott!

- I say, old man, you don't seriously believe... - Sorry, Heritage.

The court's finding was quite fair.

You were given every chance.

Well, I must be getting along. In a hurry, I've got a date.

That seems to be that.

You've collected a very promising black eye.

Yes, the other bloke isn't much different, sir.

Scraping again?

I can't give you orders any longer, Mansel, but I do wish you wouldn't.

I couldn't let him say what he said.

What was that?

What did he say, sir?

I don't just rightly remember.

Couldn't it be that I've got what was coming to me? Eh, Mansel?

Well, sir...

If you start picking fights with everyone who thinks that way, my lad,

- you're gonna have your hands full. - Yes, sir.

Do you know what the Admiral would've said to such goings-on?

He'd have said, hit him one for me, Mansel.

Your father, begging your pardon, sir,

all the 20 years I was with him

- was always very partial to a bit of a go with the dukes. - Yes?

And in this case?

In this case, like me and all the rest of the men, sir.

He would know it was like what you said.

Not like what they said.

Thank you, Mansel.

If I'm not being bold, sir...

What are you going to do now?

I'm gonna find the answer.

Get that proof, or it's the last thing I'll do.

I can't let you and the Admiral down.

Good for you, sir.

Now, who could have slipped you them faked orders

and pinched the real ones?

I'll check everywhere I went the night before I sailed.

Every person I met.

Well, have a look, sir, perhaps one of these here ladies

- might help you to remember. - I remember them all.

Uh... "Cherchez la femme", sir?

Yes, I did a bit of "Cherchez" in my time? haven't I?

Yes, sir. I remember your father who...

The last person I talked to that night was Mary.

Yes, Mary.

BLACKPOOL

Mary, you must be more careful!

- I'm so sorry, Mr. Riccardo. - I cannot bear pain.

I suffer! I suffer!

And my hands especially, they are my fortune.

With me, it's not like a pretty girl, the face,

but these!

Beautiful artistic hands, sir.

How right you are.

- Well? - No.

- I don't want to. Really, I can't. - You break my heart.

I don't want to do that.

Then you'll meet me tonight, as I say.

Please.

You make it so hard to say no.

I make it impossible to say no.

It's one of the secrets of my success.

So, you will? Tonight?

Anything else, sir?

Electric massage?

Today, no.

Thank you, that's alright.

- Just ready for you, sir. - Is Mary about?

Manicure, sir?

No, I just want to have a word with Mary.

I'm afraid she's got someone waiting for her.

I won't keep her long. I'm an old friend of hers.

Alright.

Mary!

There is a gentleman for you.

- Dick! - Hello, Mary!

I'm so glad. I didn't know where you'd gone.

I've got something very important to tell you.

And I want to ask you something.

Are you on leave?

After a fashion.

Brilliantine? Shaving cream? Razor blade?

Can I interest you in anything?

Thank you, no. I'm already interested...

Au revoir, dear.

Who is your fine friend?

That's the "Great Riccardo", mind reader.

He binds a girl's eyes with a scarf

and she knows everything he's got in his hand. Every detail of it.

In the floor show, at the hotel.

He's really spectacular.

So I noticed. Is he a good friend of yours?

- Well... - Mary!

How much longer have I got to wait?

Alright, Mary. I'll keep her quiet.

- I've got to talk to you. - Yes, but not here.

Something awfully strange happened that you must know about.

- What about lunch? - Busy all day.

But as soon as I'm through.

- Five o'clock in the lounge... - Alright, Mary.

You're still wearing that old manicle, I see.

It never comes off. For luck.

- Mary! - Alright!

Five o'clock in the lounge.

Pardon.

I forget him.

And now, what can I do for you, sir?

Take it off.

I say...

Has Mary gone?

Some time ago, sir. But she left a message for you.

She said she was very sorry, got called away.

It was something urgent.

Urgent, huh?

Yes, and would you meet her tonight at the "Bell and Dragon"?

What the blazes is that?

Just a few miles out of the town, sir.

Why there, I wonder.

I don't know. Maybe because she goes to a place near there.

Orchard Cottage. She got friends there.

- What time did she say? - She didn't.

She just said, later in the evening, sir.

It's queer.

What's the name of the pub?

Bell and Dragon, sir.

Thanks.

BELL AND DRAGON

- Good evening. - Nasty night.

A lady was supposed to meet me here.

No lady's been in tonight, sir.

- Give me a pink gin, will you? - No gin.

- Whiskey, then? - No whiskey, sir.

No gin, no whiskey, no lady.

No license.

- What have you got? - Plenty of beer, sir.

Alright, I'll have a pale ale.

Do you know a place around here called Orchard Cottage?

About half a mile up the road. Stands alone.

It's hard to find?

Can't miss it, sign's by the gate.

- Goodnight. - Goodnight, Charlie.

Did you say taxi?

- Could you get me a lift? - Where do you want to go?

- To Orchard Cottage. - Oh, that place!

- Come quickly, we'll go. - Oh, great.

Uh, wait...

What about your suitcase in the carriage?

- I'll get it in the morning. - Righto.

What did you mean, "that place"?

What place?

Where I'm going, Orchard Cottage.

I don't know. It's a queer place.

Kind of mysterious, I always think so whenever I passes it.

- Mysterious? - Lonesome looking. Deserted.

It can't be deserted. My uncles live there.

Them two old fellows are your uncles?

Fine chaps. I'm glad to hear they're back.

- Back? Where from? - From the sea.

But they've been back for years and years now.

They retired ages ago.

I know, but they joined up again.

Merchant Navy.

Can't keep old sailors away from it these days.

Of course you can't.

Good old uncles.

But... Suppose, they're not home?

They may be. They comes and goes.

Anyhow, there's somebody there.

Who?

Oh, yes, their housekeeper, I guess.

Oh, I don't know. I haven't see anybody, only smoke from the chimneys.

And that's what makes it so queer.

There are people there, but you don't never see them.

ORCHARD COTTAGE

Joshua and Andrew Verity

Master Mariners

Anybody home?

Here you are, miss.

I'm glad it stopped raining.

It's kind of dark, though.

- Have you got your torch? - Yes, I have.

Follow that path until you get to the gate.

The house is just a bit further.

- Thank you so much. - That's nothin', lass.

- So long. - So long.

Anyone here?

Just a minute, please.

Hey, you, there! Wait.

Sorry.

Oh, let me go!

Uncle Andrew!

Uncle Joshua!

Is there somebody here?

Please, wake up.

Who are you?

You inside there, open up!

Don't be afraid.

I mustn't go to sleep.

Is Mary about?

She hasn't been in this morning, sir. Most unusual.

Where does she live?

She hasn't been home either.

Her mother came this morning, asking for her.

- She was worried, very worried. - So am I.

Please, will you take me to...

Pleasure, where to?

No, no, thank you.

But you stopped me and I want to talk to you. Do get in.

Yes, but I don't want to talk to you.

Stop! Stop!

Alright, lady. Where do you want to go?

To the nearest police station.

- Officer... - Madam?

Something terrible's happened! Something awful!

If it's ration trouble, you go to the food office.

No, it's not.

What did you lose?

I didn't. I found it.

- What, a parachutist? - No, no, don't be silly.

- A body. - Whose?

I don't know. It was dead.

Accident or natural causes?

Murder.

Not murder!

- Well, I... - Well, do something.

It's kind of unusual around here, you know.

But, say you're in luck today.

Detective Inspector Burrows is here from headquarters.

You can tell him all about it.

Officer, officer. Do you know that man?

Can't say I do.

- I think he's the murderer. - Oh?

You'd better arrest him.

It's alright. I'll wait.

Good.

Take a sit, madam.

Will you leave me alone?

I've got to talk to you before you tell the police.

- Tell them what? - Whatever you're going to tell them.

You're trying to intimidate me, are you?

- Good morning, miss. - Good morning.

Now, about this murder.

- You didn't know the victim. - No.

- Where did you find the body? - In the bedroom.

- Whose bedroom? Yours? - No...

I don't know. One of my uncles' probably.

It's their house, Orchard Cottage.

What she was doing there, I have no idea.

- The victim is a woman? - Mmm. A girl.

- Can you describe her? - Yes. She was dark...

Very dark, in fact, and quite young, too, I should think.

And she had a bracelet with curious, dangling charms on it.

Of course, I couldn't tell how tall she was or anything like that.

- Anything else? - I'm afraid not.

What do you want?

- I came here to ask about someone who seems to have disappeared. - What?!

And this young lady's description exactly fits the person I'm looking for.

- Interesting coincidence. - It's nonsense.

He came out of the house just before I went in and found the body.

I was only there a minute before she arrived.

And you stayed in the cottage all night.

You did? With a dead girl?

And why didn't you report the murder right away?

- Well... I was afraid. - Of what?

- The murderer. Of him. - Ridiculous.

- What were you doing at the cottage? - I was looking for Mary.

Mary, who?

Well, uh... just Mary, as far as I'm concerned.

I suppose you do know there's a dead girl.

- I don't know. - I know. I know. - I don't!

Alright, alright.

I want to question you both later.

After we've viewed the remains and the scene of the crime. Come along.

You'd better come too. Tell Higgins to take over.

What's the name of that place?

- Orchard Cottage, sir. - Orchard Cottage, sir.

This is the room. It's... it's in there.

Must I go in again? I'm much sure I would not.

- Alright. - You stay here.

- Where did you say the body was? - On the bed.

Come in.

But... but she was there, on the bed.

Not an hour ago.

How could it happen? Where is she?

I suspect she's where she always was.

In your imagination.

No, no. I saw her there.

With her hands stretched out and the bracelet on it.

- And a piece of paper in her hand. - What paper?

- I'll show you. - You took it?

Yes...

I thought it looked like a letter.

I thought it would be evidence.

I assume your paper-evidence has disappeared too.

Like the body.

You!

I only had one part of the letter.

It tore when I took it. Her hand was clenching it.

Rigor mortis.

I put it in here so carefully and it's gone.

Young woman, we've had enough of your little game.

You could've got your picture in the paper

quite as easily by taking somebody's pills.

And with less serious consequences.

You don't believe me?

You read my mind.

But I tell you, she was there.

- She had a scarf around her neck... - Perhaps she had a sore throat.

But why should I come all the way from Canada

just to make this up?

There you have me.

Come on, let's have your identity cards.

Passport.

Thank you, Command Heritage.

I suggest you make a full report

of the missing person to headquarters.

Miss Verity, the law in England is not to be trifled with.

Especially in wartime.

You will be proceeded against for public mischief.

Good morning.

But I tell you, there was a body. There was.

And what's more, somebody else saw it too.

Who?

The murderer.

And it isn't my job to find him.

Quite right.

It's not your job.

Let me give you a tip.

Keep out of this.

- Are you afraid I know too much? - Perhaps.

You mean...

You mean the same thing might happen to...

...to me?

Unless...

- What's that? - What?

Poor kid.

You're right.

And it was my fault.

Your fault?

Someone was trying to stop her talking to me.

Look out!

This is the perfect cottage for murder. There's even a well.

It's... It's...

No.

Covered with cobwebs.

Well? Aren't you going to thank me for saving your life?

I... I...

This scarf is...

You recognized it!

Then... You must have seen the body!

Wait a minute.

Can't you understand I'm trying to help you?

No, thanks.

I can take care of myself.

But, listen.

And what's more, I'm going to prove to the police that I didn't invent the murder.

Even if I have to find the murderer myself!

CHILD'S THEATRICAL AGENCY

The name on that paper. The name! If only I could remember it.

Joshua on his 16th birthday.

A second officer...

Oh... his first command.

Joshua as a child.

Child!

Child! That was it.

- No letters for you, Miss Bernard. - Thanks.

If anyone calls, I should be at Child's Agency.

Very good, Miss Bernard.

Darling!

Oh, beautiful. I've looked for you everywhere.

Funny you overlooked the only place you knew I'd be last night.

Last night?

And where were you, darling?

Business, dear, business. Most important.

But every second I've thinked of you.

Mmm... I doubt it.

- Come, let's go. - Now? Where?

You know I'm singing for Child and that man from the BBC.

Did you forget?

Your new number!

Of course not. How could I?

And today I cannot listen.

I'm desolate...

But you tell me, so soon you finish, all that happened. Eh?

I hope the BBC man likes it.

He will. You sing it so good.

You always say the right things.

It's one of the secrets of my success.

Key, please, 217.

What a dear little dog.

Sweet little dog sent straight from heaven.

You come right back, dear?

You bet, honey. Like an arrow from a bow.

Not "from a bow", To the bow!

- A joke, yes? - No.

How right you are.

Bye.

Excuse me, is this your dog?

- No. - Funny.

Why?

It looks as if it might be.

Do you happen to know whose dog it is?

You'd better ask the porter.

But I don't want to talk to the porter.

Excuse me, but I'm in a hurry.

Good, I can give you a lift.

No!

Why not if you're in such a hurry?

Because you are in too much of a hurry.

And I don't like the look of you.

I've got a very good looking car.

Be kind to her. No mother to guide her.

Dog snatcher!

Hector! Come to Mummy.

There

Don't talk to me. Not another word. Not a sound.

CHILD'S THEATRICAL AGENCY

Annette Leroy.

Gloria Brent.

Maisie Day.

Pamela Duncan.

Anyone else?

You're late.

I want to see Mr. Child.

Ah, who doesn't? What's your name?

Laura Verity. Why?

You're here for the chorus girl, aren't you?

- I, What? - Yes or no?

Is it flip-flap-flop you want to do? Because if not, come back next week.

Oh, yes! Yes, it is that

- Well? - Flip... what you said.

It must be today, not next week.

Why didn't you say so? Wasting our time.

Come on, kids, make it snappy. Mr. Child is waiting.

Excuse me, could you tell me in confidence:

- Do you know anything about a girl called Mary? - Mary who?

Just Mary.

Dozens of Marys. And I know all about all of them.

This one is very dark and young and

They are dark one day, blonde the next, and some of them young.

I'm afraid I can't help you, toots.

Oh, dear.

Excuse me, is Mr. Child in there?

Yes.

Nervous, aren't you?

Don't worry.

If your legs are alright, you're alright.

What have my legs got to do with it?

You'd be surprised.

Grant, I like it a lot.

Thank you, Mr. Boothby.

- Then it's alright. - Yes, rather.

Thanks very much, everybody. That should come over splendidly.

Now, where's Lily Bernard?

Lily?

I'm afraid she's not here, Mr. Child.

Not here? Where is she?

- What time is your train? - It's alright, I can stay a bit longer.

She'll be here at any moment.

I wonder if you would mind, while we're waiting,

my selecting a chorus for a review.

OK, go ahead.

Alright, Henry, I'll just run through these girls.

Come on, ladies, get in a line, hurry up.

Not a bad lot, eh?

Pity I'm not doing television anymore.

- Please, Mr. Child. - Huh?

- If you don't mind, I'd like to ask you something. - Oh! Oh!

Hold on, I'll ask you the questions.

- Not bad, huh? - Personality, too.

Well, what do you do?

Sing, dance, classical, eccentric, tap?

Well I can sing a little.

Very well, then. Sing.

- I don't sing very well. - Well, you don't have to.

I think I'd rather recite.

Alright, recite. Make it snappy.

Something I learned at school. I've never forgotten it.

- From Shakespeare. - Holy Smoke.

At last! We've been waiting for you.

- Where have you been? - I'd been, oh!

My friend brought me in his darling car.

I'm so sorry I'm late.

Never keep the BBC waiting.

Boothby is important; he has to catch a train.

Being so smart didn't get you anywhere, did it?

Don't try that again, girlie, we don't like it.

- Mr. Boothby, this is a pleasure! - The pleasure's mine, Miss Bernard.

Wait till you hear her sing.

It's a grand number, I know you'll like it.

And you'll like it too.

Mr. Boothby from the BBC, and this gentleman I didn't catch your name.

Lily overlooked it.

- Blackstone. - How do you do, Mr. Blackstone.

Delighted. Your voice is an old friend.

Who are you? These offices are private.

What do you want?

I'm sorry, I was at an audition downstairs and

Well, I...

Can I help you?

Looking for anyone?

Yes, someone connected with the agency.

That's me.

Everybody downstairs seems so frightfully busy.

I'm never too busy to assist a charming young lady.

Thank you.

I came here to make inquiries about a girl called Mary.

Mary? Which Mary?

What about her?

Oh, it's awfully kind of you.

You're sure I'm not keeping you from something more important?

I think this is important.

Oh, what a nice thing to say.

Suppose you'll tell me what's on your mind.

Of course. As usual, I'm talking too much.

Well, that is, if you...

Oh, you'll think I'm just a foolish girl.

But Mary said she'd help me to get on the stage.

You see, I want to be a great actress.

- And lots of money. - I know, I know.

Why not trying earn some?

Ansa? Who's she?

Thank you very much. That was fine.

- I'm afraid, I must rush. Goodbye. - Goodbye.

Did you like it?

- Shattering, the way you sing it. - You say the right things.

"It's one of the secrets of my success."

Would you like a drink?

You do say just exactly the right things.

Won't your friend, the great Riccardo, mind waiting?

It'll do him good. Oh it is a sweet car.

Love me, love my car.

Taxi! Hey, taxi!

Cheers.

Could I have a light, please?

By all means.

Thank you.

- Who's the girl? - I haven't the least idea.

Please, Lily, come. The trains don't wait.

You're not leaving town.

But we'll play in Liverpool tonight.

Mr. Ricckardo. Mr. Blackstone.

- Charmed. - The great Riccardo!

I'm honored, will you join us in a drink?

No, thanks. We have no time.

Lily, we must go.

I'll see you in Liverpool.

Will you?

I'll be there tonight. I must hear you sing again.

Goodbye.

That face, it reminds me, Who is he?

An old friend of mine. I met him this morning.

You picked him up?

No, darling. He did the picking.

I don't like being followed.

You're not, ducky. I am.

- I want you to do me a favor. - Yes?

Keep out of this.

More threats.

It'll be a pity if anything happened to you.

It won't.

Tell me, do you know about the trains to Liverpool?

There ought to be one every hour or so.

Thanks.

And thank you for your advice.

You mustn't go to Liverpool.

Try and stop me.

Miss Verity, I have a warrant for your arrest.

What?

You'll be charged with wilfully giving false information to the police.

But I didn't!

You'll have to prove that.

Oh! And if I can't?

There'll be a fine or imprisonment.

Inspector, Inspector!

Look.

My Hector's gone again.

He ought to be at the end of this. He's not.

You must find him. He's been kidnapped.

If you'll just wait one moment, madam.

Oh, don't argue with me, Inspector. I demand an arrest.

- Later, madam, please! - Yes, but you- Now, you

Alright, I'll report you to the police.

And would you believe that this piece of paper, my one proof,

- disappeared too? - No.

I remember what was on it, though: "Child's, Theatrical Agency".

So, you went there.

Well?

I didn't find a thing.

It seemed alright, but

somehow, I don't quite know why, I had a quaint feeling of something...

fishy.

That's why I'm going to Liverpool.

My Dear, do you think you should?

I've got to prove there was a murder or find a murderer.

Besides, I hate being made a fool of.

I know how you must feel, but it seems rather dangerous.

Maybe, but nothing is going to stop me.

No wonder that you're nervous.

Well, after that, I think I'd like a cup of tea.

Oh, so would I.

You sit here and relax. I'll see what I can do.

Thank you.

- So? - She's easy. Spilled everything she knows.

She'll keep on until she finds the answer.

She might just stumble on something.

She might be troublesome, even dangerous.

Carter was right. She's not just another silly stage-struck kid.

I wonder if she's working with someone.

It's difficult to say.

Go back. Where's she sitting?

Far corner by the window, facing the engine.

Alright, Faye. I'll take care of it.

Sorry, we can't get any tea.

It doesn't matter. I'm so afraid this case will fall.

Oh, that's alright.

You sit down and make yourself confortable.

Did you hear something?

Very noisy tunnel.

No, extra sound, a kind of shot cracking.

Look!

Nonsense, my dear. That's been there for weeks.

No!

But I've seen it before.

I travel back and forth quite a lot.

Soldiers. You know, they're playing.

I thought they'd have it repaired by now.

Of course, as they say, there's a war on.

- Are you sure? - Absolutely.

My dear child, you're in a state!

You mustn't get the jitters.

Or, you'll be seeing ghosts everywhere

and imagine all kinds of mysteries.

Tickets, please.

All tickets ready, please.

My ticket was in my handbag, but

my handbag's disappeared.

My wife makes a habit of losing things.

But I forgive her.

We all do, sir. I know. I've had three of them myself.

- From Blackpool. - It's nine, sir.

Great. Thank you. Oh, these women.

Yes, but was the bullet there before, or not?

She said it was, but I could have sworn.

Oh, I just don't know anymore.

I'm beginning to doubt my own senses.

Steady, steady. Have some more tea.

Let's keep calm and stick to facts.

About this bullet, we don't know.

It may have been meant for you. Sugar?

or you may be getting jumpy and seeing mysteries everywhere,

but you've got to trust me.

But you're one of the mysteries.

- I am? - Yes.

- Who are you? - Well, I...

You're a commander to the police,

Mr. Blackstone or something, in Child's office?

You certainly keep your ears open.

Why are you following me?

I'm not following you, I'm following a clue.

What clue and why?

See?

You ask me to trust you, and then, you don't trust me.

- It does make it awfully... - Difficult. I know.

Here we'are, governor.

Sorry I'm late, sir,

but your message said refreshment room.

- Well? - Of course, I never thought of tea.

Mansel, this is Miss, Miss...

- Verity, how do you do? - Pleased to meet you, miss.

Same old trouble, sir.

You ought always to make sure of their names first.

- What are you talking about? - Same as all them other ones, sir.

Excuse us, miss, talking business.

I've been trying to check up on these photos, like I said, sir.

But where you did remember the names,

- most of them have disappeared. - Shh!

It's funny, sir,

but it seems like they sort of have a way of vanishing.

Thanks for the tea.

- I'm so sorry I haven't a picture to add to your collection. - But

I should feel safer on my own.

- You darned fool, Mansel! - Quite, sir.

Shall I start checking up on her now, sir?

- If there is any checking up to be done on Miss, uh - Verity, sir.

Miss Verity. I'll do it myself.

As you say, sir.

I'm afraid that is the cheapest room we have available.

Very well.

- Will you fill that out? - Yes.

And your identity card, please.

My papers are in my suitcase; I'll let them you have them later.

That'll be alright, madam.

Keep this, please.

- I'll take this one. - 1.06, please.

My wife never has any change.

Thank you.

Please, won't you listen to me? I want to explain.

About your harem of girls that disappear?

And other things.

Well, if you will chase me like this and I can't very well get away,

I suppose I should have to listen.

Good.

You see

Excuse me.

Hello.

Am I glad to see you.

Same here, only more so. You look terrific.

- All dressed up. - And no place to go?

Yes, but no one to go with.

Wrong again. This is my lucky day.

Waiter!

You still say the right things.

- What would you like? - I think, a sidecar.

So do I, but,

do you know this?

That's what we'll get.

And how's His Magnificence, the great Riccardo?

- That's the secret of your success. - How come?

He's busy talking about the show with Child.

And I thought it was my...

- devastating personality? - No. My darling car.

You beast!

And speaking of success, why aren't you singing in London?

Child ought to be looking after that instead of running down here

after his piffling floor show.

It's not only that; he runs a dance academy here.

Oh? What sort of a place is that?

Quite amusing, coins money

and gives Child a chance to find new talent.

You see, the girls attract the sailors and troops,

and the troops and sailors attract the girls.

Works both ways.

Don't worry about Child; he's smart.

This floor show, is that his too?

Or does it belong to the other two, Benson and Carter?

If you ask me,

Child owns Benson, Carter, and Ricky.

Still, who cares, as long as I get my salary.

And your London success.

Mmm, talk of the devil.

Good afternoon.

Aren't you the young lady who was going to recite Shakespeare to me?

Yes.

Very interesting. I'm sorry we were interrupted.

This is Mr. Carter, my partner.

We've met.

- Mr. Riccardo, the mind reader. - Hello.

He's in charge of our floor show.

Still crazy to go on the stage?

It may sound crazy, but I am.

As a matter of fact,

Riccardo is in need of a new assistant for his own act.

- I'm the great Riccardo. - Are you?

Well, give it a try.

It's very kind of you and

it does sound awfully interesting, but

I run a dance academy here in Liverpool.

I'd love for you to come. It might amuse you.

And we could discuss your future.

This is the address.

I think she'll make a good assistant.

Come around tonight, won't you?

I might. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got an appointment.

We'll be looking out for you.

Cheers.

Excuse me.

That'll be 7 and 6, please.

PAWNBROKER

What do you want now?

Company, a few kind words.

- Any to spare? - Mmm.

I don't have any friends in Liverpool either.

You know where I've been?

Yes, I saw you come out.

- Successful? - Not bad.

A ring I was fond of, That he gave me five pounds.

He give you how much?

- Fifteen pounds. - Aha!

Did I say five?

One mere slip of the tongue.

You're very silent.

- I'm thinking. - Mmm... So was I.

Hungry?

You're a mind reader too.

Well, what are we waiting for?

- Cigarette? - No, thanks.

- Don't tell me you've lost it. - What?

My ring.

- Was I so obvious? - No, just sweet.

Thank you.

I spend my time saying thank you to you.

It suits me.

I'll pay you back that fifteen pounds.

So having the sea in your blood

and two uncles in the merchant navy,

you decided to join the Royal Navy.

That's why I came to England.

Well, now you know all about me.

They always tell me I talk too much.

I've been talking the whole time.

Don't be so hard on yourself. We've had our dinner.

And a lovely one.

Thank you.

- Here I go again. - I'm glad you enjoyed it.

And I'm very glad you broke down and told me everything. Makes it easier.

I feel better too.

- There's one other thing, though. - Yes? What?

It's too late now to ask you to keep out of this,

We seem to be in it together up to our necks, but please

Keep away from Child and that lot.

- Leave the dance academy to me. - Do you think it's dangerous?

For you, yes.

They think I'm just a passionate playboy.

They have no idea I have any connection with you.

So that's why you cut me dead every time

that blonde is around.

- What did you think? - Oh, I was furious.

Jealous?

I think it was that.

I hope it was.

Might've been.

Good.

- There's one thing you haven't told me. - What?

Have you ever been in love?

Oh, yes, ever since I can remember.

- Over and over again. Passionately. - Oh?

But never with anyone I knew.

Ice hockey players and film stars,

- explorers and sailors and... - Sailors? Good, I'm glad.

- I need to ask you. - What?

Have you been in love?

I've tried, and how! You ask Mansel.

But I've never succeeded.

You're trying and not succeeding. That doesn't sound right, somehow.

What kind of a woman do you want?

Well, I want my woman to be very feminine.

I mean, I'd like her to be scared stiff sometimes,

but be so determined that she'd

rather die literally than give in.

I'd want her to think that she was being absolutely independent,

but sometimes to be just the opposite.

I'd want a woman who sometimes is a little suspicious of her best friends,

who loses her bag

and she looks at you in the most adorable way

when she doesn't know quite what you're talking about.

Oh, yes, I do.

I said I tried to fall in love and never succeeded.

Funny thing.

Now, I'm not trying at all, and I think I'm succeeding.

Your bill, sir.

- Mmm. Much too cheap. - Oh, sir

- Thank you. - That's alright. Drink to our happiness.

Oh, thank you very much indeed, sir.

CHILD'S THEATRICAL AGENCY

No wonder she ran out on me.

CHILD'S DANCING ACADEMY

And one and two and three and one

and one and two and three and stop.

- He's here. - Grant?

Yes, standing by the door.

Now we can get on with it. Tell George.

Miss Verity?

Welcome.

I'm so very glad you were able to get here.

So very kind of you to ask me.

Besides, I couldn't help being intrigued by the chance of a job.

With Riccardo? Yes. Come on. We'll see if he's arrived.

Between you and me, Riccardo will do exactly as I tell him.

Oh, that's wonderful!

Charlie, this is Miss Verity. Look after her, will you?

- Good evening. - Good evening.

I'll go and hunt up Riccardo

and get him to settle your business.

Will you have a drink?

Thanks. Not just now.

It's a bit quiet out there, Charlie. Why not a "Paul Jones"?

Get things going.

Right.

- Excuse me a moment. - Yes.

- Hello, Bill. - Hello.

- Good evening, George. - Good evening, Bill.

Waiting for somebody?

Well, in a way, sailor, I was.

Who walked out on a swell girl like you?

Not exactly.

Join me and a drink.

That's nice of you. I think I will now.

Good.

What'll it be, lady?

- Would a small sherry be in order? - Why not?

George... And a pint of the usual, please.

What a coincidence.

You waiting and he doesn't turn up. Me not waiting for anybody.

- And I turn up. - To the luck of the Navy.

Here's to it.

- Dance? - Oh, I'd love to.

No hurry. Drink up first, eh?

What do those flags mean?

Signals.

What do you do?

Oh, It's all very hush hush, blue pencil secret.

Oh, I'm sorry. You see, I just arrived from Canada.

Staying with my uncles. They're sailors too.

You don't say...

Here's to them.

- Getting on fine, aren't we? - Sure, we are.

- So, how about shaking your legs? - Can't let the Navy down.

I feel queer.

What's the matter?

I'm dizzy.

I won't try to dance if you don't mind.

Of course not. Come over here and sit down.

Sorry, but I'll...

I'll be alright in a minute.

It's funny...

George! Where are you, George!

Is there a doctor here? Someone's ill.

- Can I help? - In the bar. He's really ill.

- We must find a doctor. - I'm a trained nurse.

Oh, good.

- Oh, where is he? - Who?

- The sailor who was ill. - Oh, Bill Grant.

- He's not ill, he's passed out. - What?

Tiddly, drunk if you will have it.

He wasn't drunk!

It does happen, you know.

When you've seen as many as me, miss, you know they fall over with anything.

Now, Bill Grant. He don't know when to stop.

He's been mopping it up all the evening.

And he needed just that one more to make him pass clean out.

Where is he now?

Well, he's sleeping it off so he won't get to no trouble.

I tucked him down nice and quiet, where no one will see him.

He's dead. You give him too much.

That drug doesn't kill. It only induces hypnosis.

Well, come on! Get on with it. Give him another shot.

Keep quiet! Both of you.

I know what I'm doing.

Bill.

Bill Grant.

Can you hear me?

Yes.

Now, I want you to listen very carefully

and answer some questions.

It is your duty to answer.

Lives depend on it. You understand?

Yes.

The new flotilla leader "Dandelion"...

What was the last signal?

Secret.

Bill Grant,

I'm going to tell you to open your eyes.

When you do so,

you'll be in the staff office,

and I shall be your superior officer.

Open your eyes.

Repeat the signal, Grant.

Sea and seed, Commanding Dandelion

prepare to sail 23:30 tomorrow, the 17th.

Dandelion.

- Who's in command? - Commander Lippinscott, sir.

- Lippinscott! - Shh!

Destination of Dandelion.

Signal 0349.

Commander Dandelion to collect sealed orders in person.

But I must know the destination. It's an important convoy.

I can only get what's in his mind.

Alright, Bill.

Thank you.

Close your eyes.

You will awake in five minutes.

"Dandelion sails at 23:30,

tomorrow, the 17th.

- Lippinscott commanding." - Distinctly worthwhile.

We're in luck. Lippinscott is staying at our hotel.

I'll have this coded by Fay and Max, to send out.

All we need now is the destination.

This is a job for Carter. He must handle Lippinscott.

Well, goodbye. I'm going to the floor show.

- No, you don't. That Verity girl is waiting for you. - Now? Where?

- Charlie's looking after her. - No hurry. She'll will not run away.

She's in the bag.

Come on, young lady standing staring

looking like you've seen a ghost. Come and dance.

Oh!

Surprise.

- No, I was... - Be careful!

We're strangers. We've never met before.

- But... - I'll explain later.

What the dickens are you doing here?

Well, I came... to say I was sorry.

You're

Are you angry?

Yes, furious.

- That our first dance must be so short. - What?

I've to send you home.

I'd rather be taken than sent, Mister.

I wish I could.

My job is here. Things may happen.

- Something's happened. - Here? To you?

No, to a sailor, Bill Grant. Signals.

- Bill Grant! - Yes, in the bar.

One glass of beer and he passed out. Then he disappeared.

They said he was drunk, but he wasn't.

So, that's the answer.

- Bless you! - Then...

I needn't go back to the hotel?

Now more than ever. I've got to find Grant.

Find other things too, maybe.

I can't do my job if I'm worried about you.

Please, darling.

Say things like that and...

...you could send me to Timbuktu.

Is...

Is that all?

Only that I love you.

What was that?

- I love you. - I couldn't... quite hear.

I hate you.

Look, there's Mansel!

And several of his friends from my old ship.

I'm in command again tonight.

And that's your cue to disappear.

Goodnight, darling.

What did you say? I didn't quite catch.

Goodnight, Mr. Blackstone. I promised Mama I wouldn't be late.

You're not going?

Oh, I find I'm terribly tired.

But, Mr. Child has fixed everything. Riccardo's waiting to see you.

Some other evening, thank you. Goodnight.

I don't get it. I just don't get it.

You don't need to get anything but the 24 notes. Listen.

Dandelion...

sails...

at 23:30, tonight.

That's the code, groups of six.

Listen again.

I've got to break it out, or it won't make musical sense.

Break it out as you like.

But stick to the code notes.

Oh, Miss Verity! I've looked for you everywhere.

Mr. Child speaks to me about you.

He's waiting for us right now. Let's go.

- Not now. I'm going home. - But, you can't go home.

Child has arranged everything. And I've made up my mind.

You and no one else are my assistant.

I'll show you how to do. Tonight.

Tonight... I shouldn't do myself justice.

It won't even take you a minute.

Oh, my dear Miss Verity. I've arranged everything for you.

She says she go home.

No, I'm afraid we can't allow that.

I tell you, it will not take you a minute.

Come along.

- Oh... - Good evening.

- Come into my room. - Come, please.

Sit down, will you?

Be a good little girl.

I'll leave you two together.

Riccardo will show you what to do.

As a matter of fact, you have very little to do.

It's almost entirely a passive role.

You're not afraid of me, are you?

Why? Should I be afraid of you?

Many young women in your position would be...

...a little nervous.

Now let's try it.

Cheers.

Hey, what did you say to me?

- What did I say? - I know what you said.

- I said what I said. - Well, I won't have it.

- Well, I'll have it. - Well, have it!

Come on, boys! Quiet!

- Hey! You leave my friend alone. - You keep out of this.

I really think you'd be safer in the other room.

Reminds me of Blackpool. That was a joy.

Well, thanks for the drink.

- Thanks for the dance. - Ta-ta. - ta'.

What's this?

- What's what? - This.

That!

What's going on here? Quiet!

Quiet, will you please. Quiet.

Stop making that rout. Can't you?

The worst thing is you can't have a drink in peace.

- In what? - Peace.

Grant!

- Petty officer Grant! - Yes, sir.

Take it easy.

- What happened, sir? - You tell me.

With a girl I was and a glass of beer.

- That's all I remember. - Nothing else?

Are you sure, Grant?

Except a kind of dream.

Queer...

Like I was in the staff office and somebody asking questions.

Who?

The staff officer.

Only...

Only he wasn't. It couldn't have been.

What kind of questions?

About orders.

In code. Secret!

Blimey!

Lucky, it was just a dream.

Same thing ever happened before?

I'm afraid it has, sir.

Everything under control, governor.

Another black eye, Mansel?

The other one's alright, sir.

- Keep it on petty officer Grant. - Very good, sir.

You've got one too?

So far, all quite easy.

- Yes, sir. So far. - All quite easy.

And now I come to the end of my turn.

And for the end, I use this!

No!

Yes!

What's this?

You asked to be my assistant. I only want to show you...

Hello.

What's going on?

Are we in trouble, Riccardo?

I'm so glad you've come!

Who's this charming young lady?

- You know what... - Keep calm, my dear.

I'll look after her. You mustn't be late for your floor show.

Yes, I go.

Perhaps I rehearse my new assistant too hard, eh?

You be so good. Thank you.

You... you... you!

Why didn't you hit him? Tear him apart?

He was trying to strangle me!

You, coward!

So, why don't...

Why don't you say something?

- Grant... - Yes, sir.

Tell Bobby I want to speak to her.

You wanted me?

I've only just ordered my supper.

Bobby, you remember one day I said I'd give you a break?

- Well, this is it. - Really, Mister Carter?

See that man in uniform, sitting alone?

He's commander Lippinscott.

- I can trust you, can't I? - Oh, yes, Miss Carter.

I was just had word from the Admiralty

that he's in danger, grave danger.

I'm letting you in on secret war stuff, Bobby.

It may sound absurd, but Fifth Columnists do exist, you know.

Go over and make friends with the commander.

Stick with him and report whatever happens to me.

Of course, he mustn't suspect.

I'd like to help in the war...

You could save his life and you will serve your country.

The Admiralty will be very grateful.

And I shan't forget.

- Alright, I'll do it. - Good girl.

Take this job, but this is war.

Now, off you go.

Hello, Larry.

I beg your pardon?

- Oh, dear. You're not Larry Gray. - I'm afraid I'm not, sorry.

So am I. I was all alone and saw you, and thought you were Larry.

- He's one of my best friends. - Lucky Larry.

You're exactly like him.

He's the nicest man in the world, and...

And what?

I was going to say, "and terribly good looking".

Oh, really?

- Do sit down, please. - But I couldn't.

Of course, if you were Larry...

Well, I look like him, and...

I might be the second nicest man in the world.

You might.

Are we going to have something to eat?

- Alone, sir? - Yes.

This way, please.

Oh, Lord.

What is it?

Here look now...

A man I don't want to meet, trying to attract my attention.

I say we start with oysters.

- Yes, that'll be wonderful. - Good.

Excuse me, my dear, Mr. Carter wants you.

- Does he? Where? - Out in the lobby.

Sorry, back in a minute.

Larry.

I couldn't talk to you in front of the girl.

- I'd rather not talk to you at all. - You've got to listen.

Waiter...

Yes, sir?

When the young lady returns, please ask her to meet me at the bar.

I'll be alone.

Put this on 122.

I thought I made myself clear:

- I don't want to talk to you. - Don't be a fool, Lippinscott.

Wrap yourself around it, old son. You'll feel better.

Ah, now I get it.

Downstairs and in the corridor...

Ah, of course.

- What a numbskull. - A bit slow on the uptake.

- Cheers. - Cheers.

Then there's nothing I could tell you.

No.

You gave us some information, though.

And kept us hopping around a bit too, to keep up with you.

Too bad we couldn't let you in on it, but...

Naturally not.

- But then, that trial of mine? - Camouflage.

You see, we had to have proof. Not about you, but about them.

- And we still want it. - I'm afraid all I've got...

are jigsaw pieces that don't fit.

The agency in Blackpool, the dance hall in Liverpool,

Child and his crew, the murder, Grant...

- They're all part of it somehow. - Yes.

We've got some pieces too. Let's try to put them together.

By the way, you'll be glad to know that...

that new girl of yours, Miss Laura Verity,

is beyond suspicion.

- Quite in the clear. - Eh?

We checked up on her, of course.

Quite unnecessary.

But about the gang, you could round them all up right now.

We could, of course, but that wouldn't give us the "how" of it.

You mean catch them "with the goods", as we say.

- Exactly. - Yes.

And you, I suppose, are the cheese in the trap.

I resent that.

I prefer the innocent lamb of sacrifice.

Damned lion in lamb's clothing. That's what you are.

Perfect day to take a pretty girl for a drive.

What's on your mind?

After last night, won't Bobby find it a bit strange if I come along with you?

I don't know. I'll tell her that you didn't want to borrow any money after all.

Picking up your sealed orders from the control office?

Yes, that's why I want you with us.

I say, you don't suppose, do you, that when dear little Bobby sees we get them,

she'll run straight away and tell Carter?

I'm sure she will.

Yes, that's what I thought.

You know, she seems a darned nice girl.

- Do you think she's one of the gang? - Nah...

They're just using her, just as they did Mary.

So we'll use Bobby too and make sure the same thing doesn't happen to her.

- I'll meet you outside. - In my car.

- Well, it's their next move. - You said it.

I got a bit stiff in the joint sitting there all night, governor.

A turn down on the lower deck could loosen them up a bit.

That is, if you're not in too much of a hurry, sir.

That's a very good idea.

- Thank you, Mansel. - It's alright, sir.

Who is it?

Only me.

Half a second.

- Good morning, Mr. Blackstone. - Darling.

We don't have time to start that again.

Thanks for the flowers.

I'm not quite ready yet, but I'll hurry.

No breakfast, sorry. I've got to go out.

Oh, is it that blonde again?

Not at this hour. Two brunettes.

Mansel will keep his eagle eye on you 'til I get back.

Thanks.

Dick.

- Once we've bagged our rats, I'll take over permanently. - Oh, my God!

I'm sorry, sir.

So am I.

Thank you.

Yes? Yes.

Good morning, Mr. Riccardo.

For last night, I must thank you very much, my friend.

It was a pleasure.

Hello there!

Hope I haven't kept you waiting.

Worth waiting for.

Well I hurried. I didn't even stop for breakfast.

Heritage!

Where's Child?

Well? What's all the excitement?

Bobby and Lippinscott, they go in his car alright.

But with them goes this Mr. Blackstone.

And he's Commander Heritage.

- Heritage? - Yes.

And together, in joining rooms, he and Lippinscott, they sleep.

And in the papers of Heritage, I find this.

That's not so good.

No, I don't like it. Not one little bit. I'm afraid.

Losing your heads won't help.

They don't know what we're doing. They have nothing to to get onto.

But this! This connects with Orchard Cottage.

- And there they've something to get onto. - He's right, boss.

This is your job. You'd better take care of it.

Yes, I go.

I'll make everything safe.

And the sooner, the better.

What are you, a bunch of old women?

No need to panic.

I wonder if we've got to have much more use for that fellow.

What about the Verity girl?

Lippinscott and those orders of his are the big things right now.

We'll take a chance with her. She can't trip us up.

What's the big idea?

Oh, it's you, Lily.

I'm so glad.

Who were you expecting?

No one. Nobody.

Nobody at all.

Then why didn't you answer when I...

Going somewhere?

Lily, come with me.

We get away. Both of us. Right now.

Before my broadcast tonight? Quit the show?

But, that is not important.

To me it is. It's my job!

You're always raving about my voice and the great career you're planning for me.

And now you want me to chuck it.

Why?

- You do not understand. - You're right, I don't.

I've been wondering for months,

but I didn't bother about it because I was working and getting paid for it.

There's something screwy about the whole setup.

Carter, Child and that doctor guy, and you!

Forget about it. You must come with me.

You're scared stiff!

What are the bunch of you up to?

Leave that alone.

Look, Riccardo... I've been pushed around and stood for it.

But there's one thing I won't stand for.

If this business has anything to do with the war we're fighting, I'll...

Swine!

Hello, Mansel. What on earth are you doing here?

Just having a bit of a sit down, miss.

Really, Mansel, this is ridiculous. Are you going to follow me around like this?

Sorry, miss, commander's orders.

I shan't obtrude. Just keep an eye on you.

Look!

- I must follow him. - I'm sorry, miss, it can't be done.

- But I must. - I'm sorry, miss.

Don't be a fool, Mansel, you can come too.

I promised the commander we wouldn't leave the hotel.

- I'm going to follow him. - No, sorry, miss.

Get out of my way.

- Sorry, miss. - Look!

- That's a policeman. - Yes.

- He's after me. - No good, miss.

You'll have to think of a better one than that to get rid of me.

But he's a policeman, and he's after me.

Are you protecting me or are you not?

Yes, she's staying here.

I think I saw her coming down the stairs only a few moments ago.

Oh, there she is.

Here he comes. Don't you let him get me.

Excuse me, no admittance.

- What do you mean? - What I said, no admittance.

- You were talking to Miss Verity. - I was.

- She's in the restaurant. - She is.

- I want to speak to her. - You can't. - Why not?

- Because I say so. - Oh, and who are you?

Never you mind.

Well, that's me...

- Detective Inspector Burrows, and Miss Verity is wanted. - Blimey!

I'm sorry, sir, but we don't serve breakfast after 10:30.

Was there a young woman here?

- Just this minute, sir. - Where'd she go? - Through there.

Come on, I'm going to follow that car.

You're under arrest for obstructing the police.

Suits me.

Here you are, sir.

Thank you, Blaine.

Radford, take this to the ship.

I want the acknowledgment signal the usual way.

Very good, sir.

Hello? Yes. Will you pass the information on?

Now, Scratch, have you got the file ready?

Put this blank sheet of paper in it.

Put the "secret" stamp on the outside.

Lovely, thanks.

- Got it? - Yes.

May I look?

- Secret! How Thrilling. What's inside? - Ah! Ah!

- Here we are. Nobody there. - Yes, she's in there.

Come on... out of it.

Oh, thank Goodness it's you. I thought it was one of the gang.

Well done, Mansel. It's splendid of you to bring a policeman.

I didn't exactly bring him, miss, he brought me.

You've got a mountain of trouble, young woman.

Listen, I'm not riding around in the back of cars for fun.

I've followed the man who murdered that girl and hid the body.

Enough of that. Come along, both of you.

At least you might go and see for yourself what he's doing.

- Oh, alright. - Come on, come on.

Good morning.

I must apologize for interrupting you.

This is purely a routine visit.

Just an ordinary wartime checkup.

Could I see your identity card?

Certainly.

Thank you.

Yes, that's quite in order.

- I'm sorry to have troubled you. - Not in the least. Not at all.

I'm very happy the police are so careful.

Good morning, Mr. Riccardo.

But I've seen you before, this morning, haven't I?

- Are you cheerful and energetic? - Digging for victory.

Splendid. And in someone else's garden too.

I still don't know what your game is, young lady, but I've seen all I want to.

It's time we were going.

Something's burning.

Look!

No, you don't!

You stay where you are, sonny.

For the next half hour, in the Forces program,

we're taking you to hear the floor show at the Regal Hotel, Liverpool

with Lily Bernard and the Melody makers.

So, over to the hotel.

Now, codebreakers, this is where you do your stuff.

Right, sir.

Watch the leader in his solo bits, he'll play certain groups of notes.

Yes, I know what to look for, sir.

If the boys don't recognize the code they're using, we're sunk.

I'll keep my fingers crossed.

- Got it? - He's getting it, sir.

I hope so.

Well?

Yes, I've got it, sir.

It forms into four groups of six.

2-G code, I think.

2-G is right. Makes it easy!

Dandelion sails, 23:30 tonight.

- Lippinscott's out there. - With Bobby?

She's done our stuff.

- Fell for my patriotic drivel. - Have you got the props?

That will do.

So much for HMS Dandelion.

Now when you get the real one from Lippinscott, slip it to me.

We've got to work fast, Fay.

Max must get the bearings over when he does his next turn.

Charlie and George are waiting for you in your apartment.

I'll see them later.

Dr. Benson, Mr. Carter, you're on.

Thank you.

Now, careful. No slip up.

Alright, cut it.

OK.

Now, ladies and gentlemen, those princes of magic,

those wizards of give and take,

the great Dr. Benson, assisted by the inimitable Carter.

Ladies and gentlemen, I'll now show you,

with the help of my friend Carter...

Carter. Carter!

Excuse me.

Shadows and light.

Good evening.

Carter, you're standing there. Johnson, upstairs. You know what to do.

Come on, boys.

- A trick for you, sir. Do you mind holding the tray? - Certainly.

Here's a serviette. Watch very closely.

One, two, three.

Alright? Compliments of the management.

A trick for you, sir.

Would you mind holding your hands out?

This is the wishing trick. I want you to wish for something you'd like.

One, two, three. Is that it?

Oh, sorry. I got the trick wrong.

- Would you mind to try it once more ? - Certainly.

Thank you very much. This time, wish hard. That's right.

Keep your eyes on me. One, two, three.

- Is that better? - It's splendid. Thank you.

Cheerio, sir.

Now, for our next trick,

I shall require the assistance of a gentleman from the audience.

- Will any gentleman oblige? - I will!

Would you kindly come this way, sir?

- You've got it? - Of course.

Well I must say I've got a very fine specimen.

Nothing wrong, as far as I can see.

One moment, sir. Excuse me.

Well, well, well... My dear sir.

I'd say we might find a use for them.

I want to start by binding your eyes. These will do as well as a handkerchief.

Don't worry. You shall have them back, and the lady won't be disappointed.

Let's see.

I want to be quite certain that you can't.

The game's over, Carter.

I got the Dandelion code message from the harmonica.

And I know what Benson took from commander Lippinscott.

And what he put in its place.

Ladies and gentlemen,

You've tonight witnessed a very remarkable performance.

During this apparently harmless entertainment,

information of vital importance to the enemy

has been taken from a member of the audience.

A code message has been sent from this stage,

designed to sink one of His Majesty's ships.

Secret orders have been stolen from a naval officer

and fake ones substituted.

To prove this, I shall require the assistance of a gentleman from the audience.

Would you oblige?

I'll keep this.

Thank you, sir.

I'm afraid my sleight of hand is less subtle than yours, Herr Carter.

- You have a sealed envelope in your pocket, I believe. - Yes.

Is that the envelope that was given to you today at the Royal Navy Control office?

Of course, it is.

It looks like it, but I've marked the one you mentioned.

- And there's no mark on that one? - None.

Good. That's all we want.

Burrows?

Thank you.

Ladies and gentlemen,

no allied ships will be lost as the result of this enemy action.

The envelope they took from my friend's pocket was harmless.

Quite. Just a blank sheet of paper, that's all.

And as far as I'm concerned, ladies and gentlemen, that is all.

Carry on, Burrows.

Please, keep your seats for a few minutes.

The place is surrounded by police.

There are several more members of this troup

whose public appearances are now over, permanently finished.

In the meantime, Miss Lily Bernard will entertain you.

There they go, miss.

Alright, Mansel. I'll take over now.

Very good, sir. Good luck, miss.

Thank you, Mansel.

Well, I've got them in the bag.

Yes, and...

...you've got me too.

The most... extraordinary thing has happened.

What?

For once, I've...

...I've nothing to say.

THE END