Original subtitles

Where are they?

Open this door! In the name of the people!

What do you want at this late hour? Your stuff.

No!

Mom!

By honor of the commune. I take orders from no one. I am your queen, Mary

Antoinette. We are to take Louis Charles.

She will not lay one finger on for his own sake.

Mama, don't let them take me.

You can't take him.

You can't take him.

Not my boy. No.

Let me go. Please.

Let go of him or we'll kill you.

Didn't she look lovely on her way to the guillotine? Oh, yes, lovely.

Imagine going to all that trouble.

Just have your head cut off.

Oh, isn't she gorgeous?

It's like a dream, Jane.

My new neighbour. On the silver screen at two trillion.

It is exciting, isn't it? Poor Arthur made a fitting in his grave.

I couldn't be happier, really. I couldn't. Do you think she'll pop round

for cups of sugar?

left the palm trees and glitter of Los Angeles for the leafy lands and

picturesque villages of rural England.

Miss Gregg has taken up residence with her dashing young English husband, film

director Jason Rudd, at Gossington Hall, St. Mary Mead, and seems to be loving

her new role as Lady of the Manor.

hunting, fishing, and shooting for Miss Gregg, she's hard at work on a new film

after her successful comeback as Marie Antoinette.

This time, she's taking on another queen, the Egyptian beauty Nefertiti.

Yes, Marina Gregg is truly queen of all she survived.

She's in a very good mood today.

She's been out riding with her husband.

How lovely.

Yes. She's quite taken to country pursuits. And what position do you hold,

Mr. Preston? I'm Ms. Gregg's exclusive personal assistant.

Your guests, Marina?

Riding makes me feel so alive.

I know exactly what you mean.

Arthur, my late husband, always got a little frisky after a canter.

Do help yourself.

Thank you.

I love your English tea.

Are you all right, Mrs. Bantry?

Yes, I'm fine, thank you. Only you're looking at me rather strangely.

Am I? Oh, I'm so frightfully sorry.

It must be the shock of seeing you with your head back on.

We had the very great pleasure of seeing you in Marie Antoinette the other

afternoon. We were in shreds, weren't we, Jane?

That's a very special movie for us.

It's when we first met.

I hadn't acted for a while.

And I had the privilege of directing her. I tell you, ladies, I was in awe.

My darling.

Such a gent.

I'm so young.

Gosh.

It's gone, Mrs. Bantry. Yes, please, help yourself.

Let them eat cake.

It must feel quite odd being back in your old home, Mrs. Bantry.

But it's all so different.

I do hope, I really do, that you don't mind the way we've pulled the house

around and changed things.

You must think we're the most terrible intruders.

No, not at all.

I'm thrilled you bought it, and I adore living in the lodge.

Your coming here is one of the most exciting things that's ever happened,

isn't it, Jane? Oh, yes.

And we're all so looking forward to the garden party.

So you have no regrets?

It's a new lease of life, Mr Rudd.

Since the sale went through, I've been travelling all over the place seeing my

children and grandchildren.

You have children? Yes. I have two sons, two daughters and nine grandchildren so

far.

It's great fun being a grandmother.

I wouldn't know. All the fun and none of the worry.

It's not too chilly for you, is it, Miss Mother?

No, Mr Rudd. Thank you very much.

It's very pleasant.

I'm sure you'll be very happy here, Miss Gregg.

Arthur and I had such good times.

And we will too, won't we, Jason?

Home at last.

What a wonderful feeling.

How do you think she keeps herself looking so young?

Maybe she eats monkey glands.

Maybe it's that cute young husband.

How many has she had now? I think there's number five.

Must be very tiring.

Exhausting. One was enough for me.

Dear old Gothington.

I shan't miss it, you know. You've made the right decision, Dolly. This is a

lovely little house.

Perfectly placed to keep an eye on things.

Oh, that was a nasty spill.

Oh, that young woman's driving like a mad thing. I hope you've learned

yourself.

Yeah, I went over on my own. Oh, that wretched pothole. I shall have another

word with Councillor Hubbard. Oh, dear, let me help you.

Let me have a nice cup of tea.

This is you, isn't it?

Yes, but I'm perfectly all right. No, no, nothing. You'll be quite shaken.

I don't take sugar, Miss Badcock. Oh, you must have sugar. It's good for

shock. I was abroad with the ambulances during the war and sugar always did the

trick. There now.

You get that down, you'll be right as rain.

I'm afraid I've put you to a lot of trouble.

Oh, no.

No trouble, I can assure you.

What is the use if you can't help each other, that's what I say.

Were you, um... Were you on your way anywhere in particular, Miss Marple?

I was on my way home, actually, from, um, Gossington Hall.

Gottington Hall?

Yes.

You know Marina Gregg?

I just met her, as a matter of fact.

Well, I never... It's so exciting that she's chosen to come and live here,

isn't it? I've always been the most huge fan.

Look what we just bought.

I've been collecting photographs, magazine articles, all sorts about her

for years.

When I was a teenager, I used to dream about her.

I'm so excited about the garden party.

Vinnie, honey, you're reading your article again. I just can't help myself,

Pumpkin. Oh, you're such a clever boy.

Not the hair.

What day we take a spin in the country this weekend?

Oh, Minnie.

I adore it.

Isn't England fun?

It's just like being in one of those old-fashioned comedies.

Let's hope Marina gets the joke.

How frightfully galling.

Dr. Haydox insisted, quite unnecessarily in my opinion, that I read it for a day

or two. Oh, thank you, Gerard.

I was so looking forward to it.

To be honest, I rather envy you.

Can't stand village dues.

Stale buns and warm lemonade.

And tea.

intent making a beeline for the house and having a jolly good snoop.

Counselor? Yes.

I'm Mrs. Hubbard.

That's right. I'm Anna Blunt, Jason Rudd's assistant. Would you care to

follow me?

Oh, yes, we'd love to. Miss Bantry. Oh, Miss Bantry. Miss Greg is greeting a few

special guests up there.

If you'd like to follow me.

Oh, how exciting.

Yes.

Do take that. Thank you.

Hold your stomach in.

Oh, rape drops. Yes.

Some people crashing in.

Excuse me. Would you look this way?

Lovely.

Thank you.

Quite flashed into my eyes.

Councillor and Mrs Hubbard.

How very nice of you to come.

I do hope you enjoy your afternoon.

Jason? Let me get you a drink.

Mrs. Dolly Bantry.

Oh, Mrs.

Bantry, it is nice of you to come. I wouldn't have missed it for the world.

I'm so sorry to hear about Miss Markle. Oh, she'll be on my feet in no time.

Jason, look who's here.

Ah, lovely to see you. Oh, Mr. Rock. Can I get you a drink?

Hermrose, why aren't you in the studio?

Oh, Miss Blunt asked if I could help out here.

Did she now?

Dr Gerard Haydock.

Just what the doctor ordered.

So thoughtful of you to invite me. My pleasure, doctor.

Tell me, what might I have seen you in?

Doctor? May I interest you in a drink? I thought you'd never ask. A Scotch would

go down a drink.

Go and serve themselves.

I've got to make a frightful serve.

Aren't you absolutely panting?

Miss Heather Babcock.

Oh, my God.

Very buzzy, eh, Mrs B? It's quite thrilling, Mrs Hubbard.

Even my leather isn't quite as tizzy. It takes a lot to get in the exciting.

Miss...

Badcock is the indefatigable secretary of the association.

Oh, Doctor.

I don't know what St John would do without her.

How wonderful.

Yes, she's always ready with a smile and helping hands. Jason, I'm sure Miss

Badcock would like a drink.

You don't remember me, then?

Well, why should you? It was years ago, in Bermuda Hall, basically.

I was there at one of our units, and you came to open a show in aid of St John

Ambulance? Yes, of course.

I was just a girl, absolutely thrilled.

Who'd be a film star, eh, Mrs B?

All that rubbish you have to listen to.

What a pity.

It's wonderful what they've done to the old place, don't you think?

You know, it's charming.

Oh, just mister, it's forced.

A vodka on me. I'm not sure I like it.

Look, I said to myself, I won't be beaten. I got up... You didn't knock it

back, Mrs Hubbard. What did you do with vodka? Oh.

Mr Hogg.

Have you got pictures of Lola?

Lola. Mr Hogg. Miss Brewster.

Miss Brewster. Mr Hogg.

Will you hold up me? I've never forgotten how wonderful you were that

day. It was a hundred times worth it.

Darling.

Now what will you have to drink?

Jason's cocktail.

Oh, I don't know whether I should.

Oh, let your hair down, Miss Batcock.

I suppose it is a special day.

Have a daiquiri, Miss Batcock. It's Marina's favourite.

Oh, thanks.

I've had three already.

Lola Brewster and Vincent Hogg.

I do not believe it.

Vincent and Lola. My dear.

Well, aren't you the dark horses?

This house, it's so ancient.

And so pretty.

I always knew you'd end up in an old pile.

Dear Vincent, such a riot.

Rudder.

Let's have a nose around.

Do you think we should?

This used to be a bathroom.

A bathroom.

Still is.

Oh, I'm sorry.

Hey, Fever.

Nightmare.

Please excuse me.

Two basements.

They're here to be our bedroom.

Oh.

Imagine, your Arthur is here.

Oh, do look at this.

Oh, Dolly. Oh, Dolly.

And this, this used to be Arthur's feet.

It's one of the ladies. She's had a sort of a seizure or a fit or something.

It's probably the heat. Yes, I'd better get some smelling salt. Oh, dear.

Ah, Mr. Rudd.

How is she? Mr. Preston's gone for some smelling salt.

It's a bit late for that.

Dead as a doornail.

Oh, dear.

And at the garden party. Dear me.

Yes, full of beans one minute, pegged out the next. What did she do?

Oh, no one knows you as fit as a fiddle, apparently.

Mind you, she always did have that sort of ripe look, like a piece of fruit

that's about to go off.

There's going to be an inquest and a post-mortem. Well, of course, under the

circumstances. Oh, great heavens, Heather Badcock.

You don't think it'll be suicide, do you? Oh, no.

No, she wasn't the type.

No, you're right, you're right. And anyway, why go to a party to kill

yourself? No, no, it's obviously murder.

Oh, Jane, these are for you.

Oh, thank you.

Cherry?

Leave her.

She's sleeping.

There was a kind of reception committee at the top of the stairs for selected

guests, and Heather Badcock arrived shortly after I did.

Miss Heather Badcock.

Dr. Hadock introduced her to Marina Greig. Miss Badcock is the indisputable

secretary of the association.

Oh, Doctor.

I don't know what St. John would do without her. How wonderful.

And Marina listened charmingly while Heather went on and on and on about how

she'd met Marina years ago.

She wasn't very tactful. I must say, because she was emphasising about how

long ago it was, and I don't think actresses like to be reminded of how old

they are. But Heather Badcock wouldn't think of that, would she? No, I'm afraid

she wouldn't. I mean, one wouldn't wish her dead, but she was rather tiresome.

But Miss Gregg took it all in good part.

Well, yes, but... What?

Well, when Miss Badcock was talking, I got the impression that Marina wasn't

listening after all.

She was...

staring over Miss Badcock's shoulder.

And when Miss Badcock had finished, she was on the island.

She was staring at the wall opposite.

Staring with... Oh, how can I explain it?

Do try, Dolly.

She... She had a sort of... She had a sort of frozen look, as if she

had seen... No, let me put it like this.

Do you remember the Lady of Charlotte?

Out flew the web and floated wide.

The mirror cracked from side to side.

The doom has come upon me, cried the Lady of Sherratt.

That's what she looked like.

She was staring at the wall, you think?

Well, she seemed to be.

Was there anything on the wall?

Oh, I don't know.

Pictures, I think.

I don't think pictures would be the reason.

No, especially if she'd see them every day.

Were people still coming up the stairs?

You mean she might have been looking at one of them?

Yes, it's possible. Well, there was a bit of a to-do when Lola Brewster

arrived with Vincent Hogg.

And also there was a young woman there taking photographs.

A photographer?

Yes. She took one of me.

And then Marina, all of a sudden, seemed to pull herself together.

I think... I think her husband nudged her or something.

She was back to her old, charming self.

Now, what would you like to drink?

Jason, cocktail.

Oh, I don't know whether I should. Let your hair down, Miss Badcock.

I suppose it is a special day.

That looks great.

Have a daiquiri, Miss Badcock. It's Marina's favourite.

Oh, thanks.

He gave a glass to the Badcock woman and one to his wife.

Daiquiris, I think.

It's very interesting, darling.

Very interesting indeed.

But who on earth would want to kill Heather Badcock?

Unless she knew something.

No.

If she'd known anything, she'd never be able to keep it to herself.

Perhaps she was blackmailing someone.

Blackmail? The thought wouldn't enter her head.

No, I suppose you're right. It reeks of murder, though, doesn't it? The whole

idea seems so very unlikely.

Unless, of course, it was the wrong murder.

Not a place to choose, isn't it, sir?

What do you mean, Tiddler?

Well, if I was going to poison someone, spike their drink like, I wouldn't

choose a dude with loads of people milling around. I mean, someone's bound

to notice, aren't they?

That's what we're going to find out.

So what was it then, arsenic or cyanide or something?

According to the inquest, it was an overdose of hiethyldexylbarbacrin

doloritate.

Right.

It's an antidepressant, Tiddler, commonly known as Carmo.

Widely prescribed in America, but you can also get it here.

They found six times the recommended dose inside her, and she never used the

stuff, according to her doctor.

So are we actually going to, like, meet Marina Gregg then, sir?

Of course we are.

Damn full question.

Are you a fan of hers, Tiddler?

I am... sort of.

Yes, sir.

Bit old for you, isn't he?

So, Inspector, our local murder is considered worthy of the attention of

Scotland Yard. Yes, Miss Marple, the involvement of a Hollywood star raises

its profile somewhat.

Should I be honoured that I am your first port of call?

Commissioner Clithering speaks very highly of you. Ah, dear Sir Henry.

How's he enjoying his retirement?

I suspect he's a little restless. Yes, I can well understand that, yes.

How is the ankle?

Better, thank you, much better.

I must say, it is quite a coincidence that the woman who helped you when you

fell should be murdered a few days later. Yes, isn't it?

I don't suppose you had any intuition of this, did you? Oh, good heavens, no.

What an idea.

Although, she did remind me of someone I once knew.

Who is that?

Alison Wilde.

Very kind and full of life, but only ever saw things from her own

perspective. And what's Miss Wilde doing now?

Oh, she's dead, Inspector.

Would you care for a garibaldi?

No, thank you.

Oh, I'm so sorry.

It is a pity you went to the garden party yourself, Miss Marple. Yes, isn't

it? But my friend Dolly Bantry was.

It was Mrs. Bantry who sold Gottington Hall to Marina Gregg. And did Mrs.

Bantry see anything?

Yes, indeed, she did.

And what was that?

familiar with the Lady of Charlotte.

And she was staring as though she'd seen something awful, just like the Lady of

Charlotte. The curse has come upon me.

Exactly. Have you any idea what she was looking at, Mrs. Bantry?

Well, I wish I knew. She seemed to be looking over Miss Badcock's shoulder.

At the people coming up the stairs?

I really couldn't say.

Oh, dear, I'm not explaining myself terribly well, am I? You're doing very

well, darling.

My husband never knew what I was talking about.

Poor Arthur.

You all right there, Sergeant?

Yes, thank you, Mum.

Do you know, I once had a cat called Tiddles.

It's Tiddler, Mum.

You see it?

How lovely.

Marina Gregg, darling. Yes, of course. Well, you see, I wondered what on earth

it was that made her look like that.

And then I didn't think any more about it.

But then again, I may have imagined the whole thing.

Has that been helpful?

Never say never, Titi.

Like a curse from the mummy's tomb, Marina Gregg seems dogged by tragedy.

At a garden party for the St John Ambulance, hosted by Miss Gregg in her

new country home, as a rather unconvincing lady bountiful, the

secretary of the local association, a garrulous spinster by the name of

Heather Badcock, suddenly dropped down dead.

The dreary proceedings at which Marina Gregg greeted guests with the hauteur of

a minor royal were, ironically, kick-started into life by what

is now being treated as murder.

For the time being, Miss Gregg is too distraught to continue work on her new

film Nefertiti, or is she merely having a pet at being upstaged at

her own party?

That's the one. She was sitting right there, and she just went.

One minute she was fine, and the next... I thought you'd had a seizure or a fit

or something. What she did have was six times the maximum dose of a substance

called Calmo.

Everybody takes Calmo.

I don't.

Oh, you should. It is absolutely marvelous. It bucks you up and it sues

you down, if you take my meaning.

Would there be supplies of it in the house? Yeah.

The place is lousy with it. There's bottles of it everywhere.

Where exactly did Miss Gregg receive her guests?

Well, she was standing right about here, and... Oh, yes, there was a very

persistent photographer from London, Margot something or other, a chic

beatnik-y type. She was taking photographs.

And people were coming up the stairs?

Mm-hmm.

Yes, in driblets.

I brought up the VIPs, you might say, and Ella Blunt brought up the rest.

She's Mr. Rudd's secretary.

And you are Miss Gregg's secretary.

Exclusive personal assistant, Inspector.

And were you here the time that Miss Badcock came up?

I'm ashamed to say, Inspector, that I just cannot remember.

I have a feeling that I must have gone back downstairs to look after Vincent

Hogg and Lola Brewster.

Vincent Hogg, sir. He's a journalist. He used to be married to Miss Gregg. Oh, a

fan. Well, we must have a chat sometime.

This Vincent Hogg chap in? Yes, we didn't even know he was in the country.

So his turning up was something of a surprise?

You bet.

A pleasant surprise, would you say? Oh, yes. And what about Lola Brewster?

Well, she was a nice surprise, too.

So Miss Gregg was happy to see them? She couldn't have been happier. In fact, she

was thrilled.

To see her ex-husband?

Yes. With a redhead on his arm?

That's Hollywood.

Well, I should like to have a word with Miss Gregg, if I may. Oh, but you can't.

She's totally prostrated.

Nevertheless, I'd still like to speak to her.

Well, I'm afraid that's out of the question, Inspector.

You see, the doctor came by this morning, and he gave her a little

sedation.

I must say, it's a relief to be with someone who's normal.

What do you mean, Doctor?

I've been attending to Miss Marina Gregg. Oh, is she ill?

Not remotely, but she's behaving as if she were at death's door.

Well, she must be very much upset by Miss Bedcock's death.

Her nerves are shot to pieces.

Although she kept telling me, and would probably still be telling me, had I not

given her a sedative. Such a shock.

Someone suddenly dying like that in the middle of your party.

If you ask me...

Her upset has nothing to do with Miss Badcock's death.

Really? I probably shouldn't be famous.

Why, sure, you won't go any further.

So upset is she with herself, she even said that it was meant for me, Doctor.

The poison drink.

She actually said that, did she?

Yes, she certainly did.

Why on earth would she say that?

Quite preposterous to claim this tragedy as her own, with poor Miss Badcock

barely cold in the ground.

Tell me, Doctor...

Can you remember what happened after Mr Rudd served Miss Badcock and Miss Gregg

their drinks?

Yes. There were still guests coming up the stairs. There was a couple I recall.

Lola Brewster and Vincent Hogg. A suave-looking chap and a rather flashy

-looking redhead.

I do not believe it.

Miss Badcock and I were shifted off a little. And Miss Badcock.

Drank her daiquiri then?

No, because she wouldn't stop talking about Miss Marina Gray.

Excuse me.

Yes, of course.

When did she drink it? Well, it would have been a little while after.

It was getting a bit crowded by then.

Someone knocked into her and she spilt it. She spilt it?

Yes. It went down her dress and Miss Gregg's dress, I believe.

Don't worry, it's only a Chanel.

Here,

wipe yourself.

Have this, why don't you? I haven't touched it yet. She handed over her own

drink? Yes. Are you quite sure of that, Doctor? Yes, yes, I am. And Miss Badcock

took it?

Uh, no, she didn't want to at first, but, um... Yes, she took it.

And did what?

I've had five too much already.

Drank it.

Rather quickly, if memory serves.

Then I got chatting to Councillor Hubbard, and the next thing I knew...

Miss Madcock?

President? Is everything all right? Can I get her anything?

Get some smelling soap.

She was dead.

Well, Miss Marple, I'm delighted to tell you that you are now off the thick lift.

But here's something for the pain.

But what if Miss Gregg is right, that the poison drink was meant for her? She

might still be in danger.

Yes, but, well, you know what actresses are like. Tell me, Doctor, do you know

if she's told her husband any of this?

No, she didn't. I'm quite sure of that. In fact, I even suggested that perhaps

she should.

It is extraordinary.

What is? A good dose of fluthing always brings the colour to your cheeks.

Inspector Hewitt? Inspector? Ah, Miss Marple. I've just seen Dr Haydock.

Nothing serious, I hope? No, on the contrary, I'm perfectly well, thank you.

He mentioned something that I think you ought to know.

This business has made us all a bit edgy.

Especially your wife, I understand.

Well, she's sensitive at the best of times. She hasn't exactly helped.

Excuse me, Mr. Rudd.

I'm wondering if Miss Gregg might be available for a caution pattern

tomorrow. How the hell should I know?

I've been told your wife was rather distracted while Heather Badcock was

speaking to her. Cut it.

It's perfectly possible all this handshaking does get a little tedious.

But you didn't notice anything yourself?

Well, I think I did give her a nudge at one point to wake her up, but she was

fine after that.

I'm sorry to interrupt. Twenty minutes, John!

Mr. Rudd.

I've got two dozen journalists on the phone, Jason, wanting to know when they

can talk to either you or Maria. I'll get back to you.

Ten minutes, Ella, okay?

Okay. As you can see, things are pretty hectic, so if you wouldn't mind... Mr.

Rudd, has it occurred to you that the poisoning of Heather Badcock may have

been entirely accidental, and that the real intended victim was your wife?

Very astute, Inspector.

That's what I thought all along.

And why haven't you said nothing because I don't want her to suspect for one

moment that someone's out to kill

Your husband number?

Five.

Almost a cliche, isn't it?

She's got it into her head that she's cursed with bad luck.

Well, I have every intention of proving her wrong.

Good for you.

You see, Inspector, she expects too much.

She really believes she can be happy ever after.

Well, life's not like that, is it?

And what about children?

That's one of the reasons she considers herself unlucky.

She finally resorted to adoption and then, of course, got pregnant.

She was over the moon, but the result was catastrophic.

She gave birth to a boy who was severely retired and had a complete breakdown.

I met her on a comeback movie, Mary Antoinette, shortly after she recovered.

And the son?

He had to be put into a home.

In America?

Yes, but he was recently moved into a home over here.

Does she see him? Too much contact would drive her over the edge, and we can't

risk that.

But life goes on.

Not for Miss Badcock.

It was you, wasn't it, Mr. Rudd, who gave her her drink?

Yes, with daiquiris.

I gave one to Miss Badcock, then one to Marina.

It's Marina's favourite.

Oh, thanks.

I've had three in a minute.

And this was about the time that Vincent Hogg and Lena Brewster appeared?

Yes. I do not believe it.

Vincent and Lola. Marina put her drink down on the table. She hadn't touched it

and greeted them.

And that's where her drink remained.

And it was only then that it could have been tampered with.

Don't ask me how it was done. And as for who did it, well, you have about 20

possible culprits to choose from.

Not now.

What then?

My wife finally managed to retrieve her drink when that woman must have spilled

hers.

It's all right, really.

And Marina offered her drink to Miss Badcock and that was that.

But I can assure you the fatal dose couldn't have been added after then

because Miss Badcock drank it immediately.

And five minutes later, she was dead.

Can you think of anyone who would wish to harm your wife, Mr. Rowe?

I think it's fair to say that in our business we derive a certain pleasure

from seeing colleagues fall flat on their faces.

But after wishing them dead, not as a rule.

How long have you been Mr Rudd's secretary?

Five years.

I was part of the expat community in L.A. and, well, I was rather keen to get

involved in movies, so when Mr Rudd offered me the job, obviously I jumped

at the chance.

You knew him before he met Marina?

Never yet.

I suppose as Brits we had a natural affinity.

He's the sort of genius you know. He's still so young.

You like the job.

So it's my purpose.

Although I hadn't bargained on murder.

Six times the recommended dose would hardly be anything else. In an accident?

And how would that happen?

A lot easier than you think. The house is simply full of drugs.

These theatrical types, they have the most curious lapses in intelligence.

I mean, sometimes I think the more artistic they are, the less common sense

they have.

I still don't see how such an accident could happen.

One of the guests might have wanted an upper or a downer, having forgotten what

they had earlier, put too much in the ground, and then put it down.

abstracted and went off. Along comes Miss... What's her name?

Thinks it's our glass, picks it up and drinks it. People are very stupid, you

know. Sorry, sir.

Tell me, Miss Blunt, does Marina Gregg take Carmo? Oh, yes, we all do.

Have you any idea when I might be able to talk to her?

She's always throwing temperaments.

And this has given her the perfect opportunity to throw a really big one.

Didn't know you were a film mag fan, Miss.

I'm not. Just curious, that's all.

They belong to poor Miss Badcock.

Inspector Hewitt kindly procured them for me.

Would you say she's difficult to work for?

Difficult? She's an absolute monster.

The woman has no moderation.

She's either jumping for joy or in the depth of despair, and there are certain

topics one simply can't mention.

Such as?

Mental breakdown, psychiatric hospital, anything to do with children she can't

have any more, you see, and the one she did have.

Then why bring him over here?

Well, Jason thought it would be for the best.

In what way?

To give the right impression.

I mean, after all, Inspector, it doesn't put Marina in terribly good light, does

it? I mean, to move over here and leave her son to rot in an American asylum.

But it's not Mr Rudd's child, is it? No.

The husband before last.

And where's he now?

Florida. Miss Blunt, do you know if Marina Gregg is afraid of anyone?

Marina?

Afraid?

Hay fever.

Peak nightmare.

A day out in London?

What a lovely idea.

I've been behaving disgracefully, gentlemen.

Will you ever forgive me?

I just let myself go to pieces after this awful thing.

Do take a seat in the picture. Thank you, Miss Gray.

This is Sergeant Tiddler.

How adorable.

Pull up a chair, Sergeant Tiddler. Make yourself at home.

Tiddler, chair.

Yes, sir.

I'm so ashamed of myself.

It's only natural that you should have felt upset.

I had no business making out it was worse for me than anyone else.

Hadn't you, Miss Gregg?

Well, hadn't you?

You're a very perceptive inspector, aren't you?

Why do you think someone wanted to kill you?

It was my glass, my drink, that had been tampered with.

It was just a mistake that that woman got it.

I wouldn't have said anything, but Jason insisted.

You've confided in him, then?

Dr. Hadock suggested I should.

Jason thought the same of me. He thought it all along.

It's quite funny, really.

He didn't want to alarm me by telling me.

I hope you're getting this, Sergeant.

I am, Mom.

Have you any idea, Miss Gregg, who might have tampered with your drink? Of course

I haven't. Are you certain?

If I had, Inspector, I'd tell you. I'm sure you would. I just wondered if

you'd... Had even the slightest suspicions. It could have been anyone.

Jason, darling, Inspector Hugh would think I know who spiked my drink, and I

keep telling him I don't. But I can't help thinking that perhaps you know a

little more than you're telling me. Well, I saw nothing. Neither did I.

God, I'm exhausted.

Just one more thing.

Make him go away?

Can't this wait, Inspector?

Someone has told me that while Miss Badcock was speaking to you, you looked

over her shoulder and saw something that seemed to alarm you. Now, is this true,

Miss Gregg?

Of course it isn't. What could possibly have alarmed me?

That's what we want to find out.

It seems you might have been looking at the staircase.

And at about that time, Vincent Hogg arrived with Lola Brewster.

Was it this that upset you?

I'm telling you, I wasn't upset.

Who said I was? Inspector, I think it's time to go. You didn't even know they

were coming, did you? I had no idea they were even in England.

So it was a surprise.

Yes, it was. A delightful surprise.

Delightful to see your ex-husband... Inspector.

With your current husband's ex-lover on his arm.

Yesterday's papers, Inspector.

So you knew about the affair, did you?

You're very persistent, aren't you? Did Lola Brewster ever make any threats

towards you, Miss Grant?

She wouldn't dare. Oh.

I'd heard that she'd pulled a gun on you at a party after Mr Rudd dumped her.

Let's cut to the chase, shall we?

Lola Brewster had no opportunity of poisoning that drink because I was close

beside her most of the time. Were you? The idea that she'd come to England and

poison Maria... Close beside her? What were you up to? I wasn't up to anything.

And what about Vincent Hogg?

The idea that that poisonous old snake could in any way alarm me.

But there was something, wasn't there, Miss Gray?

Something that distracted you.

Okay, Inspector.

Let me put it like this.

I've had quite a tough time recently.

But have gradually been getting back on track and I'm working my butt off.

But I still find time to open my house to raise money for charity and to be

nice and pleasant to everyone.

And they all say the same thing to you and you say the same thing back over and

over and over again.

Have you any idea how boring that can be? Don't. But you do it because it's

your job. And if at some point you glaze over, then so be it.

I have no faint idea what Miss What's-Her-Face was going on about. And

I tell you, it couldn't have been that riveting because I did blank out for a

second, two seconds. Who cares?

I'm human, so sue me! My only concern, Miss Gregg, is for your safety.

An attempt was made on your life by someone on the day of the party.

Someone who is quite possibly still here. And who...

in the scheme of things, is bound to try again. If you have even the vaguest

notion who that person might be, I beg you to share it.

Pat, you might know something that I don't. And if you do, you really should

tell her. For your sake.

But I don't.

How many...

Get out of here, the lot of you. I want to be left in peace.

I think you'd better... Thank you, Miss Gregg.

Mr. Rudd?

Any chance of an autograph, Miss Gregg?

Get out!

She's a cracker.

We've known each other for centuries.

We thought it would be jolly nice to have a portrait taken of the Memento.

Friendship's so important, don't you think, Miss Bent? And having seen you at

the party, I thought, very pardon.

Miss Marvel, can you look fractionally less petrified?

Oh, I'll do my best.

And Miss Bantry, perhaps not quite so lethal in your smile department?

Oh, yes.

More material.

Possibly.

I expect you've taken lots of famous people, haven't you, Miss Bentz? I'll

shoot anyone if we've got the money.

Hold it.

I gather from the press that this woman was poisoned by mistake, that it was in

fact intended for Marina.

That's right, sir. The overdose was in Miss Gregg's cocktail.

Miss Badcock spilled her drink and Miss Gregg gave her hers.

Pretty conclusive, I'd say.

You hadn't seen her for a while.

Not since our divorce, I'm happy, Derek.

So you didn't mind being ditched for a younger man?

To describe our marriage as a hellish nightmare would scarcely do it justice.

Then there was no love lost between you? No, Inspector. I can hardly claim to sob

into my pillow every night.

Why are you over here, Mr Hogg?

For my column, of course.

Marina's new film, Nefertiti, God help us, is creating quite a buzz. I would be

negligent to ignore it.

Now, Lola Brewster. Ah, yes.

She's been having a little lie down.

I'm sure she's up and about by now.

Wasn't it provocative taking her to the party?

She's my partner.

Partner? Rather American, isn't it?

Yes, we sort of gravitated to each other as injured parties.

She's a sweet girl.

Soothingly stupid.

Would it have been a shock for Miss Gregg to see you together?

Oh, yes, most definitely.

I believe she's told certain friends she's afraid of you, Mr. Hawke.

I wasn't aware she had any friends. Answer my question, please.

Marina's an actress. What do you expect? She plays up.

Why let something go when you can make a five-act drama out of it?

So she had nothing to be afraid of?

Certainly not me, Inspector.

I'm a pussycat.

Of course, we're such big fans of Marina Greig, aren't we, Jane?

Are you a fan, Miss Benn?

You suddenly act up a storm.

Oh.

Oh.

A bit, eh?

Hmm.

Perfect couple.

I thought she was so kind to open her home for the party.

And it all went frightfully well, except for the poor Miss Badcock.

I'd very much like to see your photographs, Miss Bent.

I expect you took several of Lola Brewster. Can you suck on the truth a

little? Make it up a bit.

Oh, that's just the ticket.

And hold it.

Of course, it was just about then that Marina Greig had that funny turn.

Did you notice that, Miss Bent?

You're probably imagining it, Dolly.

Well, I'm probably putting it too strongly, but it did seem for a moment

that she...

She looked a little queer.

Mind you, I had just knocked back a ferocious martini, so I was probably a

bit squiffy.

Oh, well, you got quite lyrical about it.

It's not like me to be lyrical. You quoted Tennyson, I seem to remember.

Oh, did I? The doom has come upon me, cried the Lady of Shalott. Oh, yes,

you're right. I do love that poem, don't you, Miss Fenn?

Hmm.

Actually, it's, um... Curse, not doom, but I know what you mean.

So you thought it through, did you? It's most extraordinary.

She's expressing nothing, whatever.

No fear, no pain.

Do you know, you're absolutely right.

It is something, isn't it?

Something she's seen or thought.

You capture her very well, Miss Spence.

How do you metaphor?

Why do you ask?

Because you've worked in America, perhaps?

Hmm.

How do you know that?

I've seen your name in magazines. I thought you may have encountered her in

a professional capacity.

I couldn't keep this, could I, for my collection?

You may go.

Oh, thank you. Thank you so much.

Of course, one can never be sure how reliable these magazines are.

I've read, for example, that she has any number of children and then that she has

no children at all. It's all most confusing, isn't it? Absolutely.

How many children does she have, Miss Benz? I haven't a clue.

Haven't you?

Haven't you really?

What are you doing here?

Someone sent you? No, no, we're just here to have our photograph taken,

aren't we, Jane?

Are you, Miss Marple?

What other possible reason could there be?

What the hell? It's hardly a secret.

What is, Miss Spence?

That I'm one of the children Marina adopted.

We lived in the East End of London.

My mother and eight of us kids, and she simply couldn't cope.

So she did what a lot of women did in her position, and she wrote to the rich

and famous, begged them to adopt, and one day she got lucky.

Didn't Miss Gregg also adopt a boy?

Every time we lived the most wonderful life, Marina played her part for Hilt.

But she did want children, didn't she?

Oh, yes.

She just didn't want her.

As soon as she discovered she was pregnant, that was it.

All she wanted was a child of her own.

Well, you can't blame her for that.

No.

But I can blame her for taking me and my mother for letting her.

And your adopted brother, what's happened to him?

We drifted apart.

He was more resentful.

Always said that when he grew up, he would kill her baby.

And then, of course, he gave birth to that wretched little creature.

Perhaps with justice after all. You hate her that much?

Why shouldn't I?

Tell me, Miss Benson, was it Marina Gregg who arranged for you to take

photographs that day?

She knew nothing about it.

I was curious to...

See her again and... Do you know what? She didn't even recognise me.

I'm going down to Hellingworth Studio to take some production shots.

I wonder if she recognised me then.

Now, remember, you're on duty, Tiddler.

Yes, sir. So, for God's sake, don't sit there with your mouth open like a

beached cod.

Are you going to ask me lots of horrible questions, officer?

It's Inspector, actually.

And I hope they won't be too horrible.

I'm sure they will be.

Even though you have the kindest eyes and the cutest smile.

You know, gentlemen, I'm sure this whole thing must have been a terrible mistake.

You think so, Miss Brewster?

Oh, yes. It's all such nonsense.

As if anyone would want to poison Marina.

She's an absolute sweetie.

Everybody loves her.

Including you?

I've always looked up to her.

She's such a brilliant actress.

You know, it's a scandal she's never won an Oscar.

Still, she has a year or two left.

Wasn't there a little trouble between the two of you?

Oh, that.

It was nothing.

She stole my lover.

That's all.

Jason Rudd. Isn't that hilarious?

She's old enough to be his mother.

You can't have been too pleased. Well, I wasn't, but...

Now I see it was the best thing that could have happened.

I wouldn't have hooked up with Vinnie otherwise.

People say you were pretty furious.

People say all sorts.

Didn't you threaten to shoot her?

Oh, sure.

But I didn't really mean it.

Miss Brewster, I have it on very good authority that you said, that bitch

needn't think she'll get away with it. I'll get even with her in the end. Did I

really say that? I believe you did.

Well, I guess I was a little mad.

We all get a little ruffled sometimes, don't we, Inspector?

A little hot under the collar.

But do you really think I would poison her cocktail within three minutes of

seeing her again?

Really, Inspector.

I do think you're being a very silly boy.

I don't deny that Marina can be a little tricky sometimes.

But she gets away with it because we all love her so much.

She adopted some children once, didn't she?

Yes, but I don't think it worked out so well.

I guess it was kind of impulsive. You know, like shopping.

You get it home, then you think, oh, boring.

Haley Preston here. Can I help you?

I saw you do it.

Excuse me?

Yes? They're ready for you, Marina.

How are you doing?

I'm very well, thank you, Marina. And I must say, you look every inch the queen.

So do you.

Why are you here? We're doing the biggest spread.

Aren't you thrilled?

Vincent, you old dog.

We haven't.

Casey. So they still haven't found you out.

And Miss Brewster, as lovely as ever.

Hi.

Marina.

Does he play your husband?

Yes. Oh.

So Nefertiti also went for men half her age.

Isn't that the cutest coincidence?

And did you know she was regarded as a fertility goddess?

Quite a stretch for you, my dear.

They're waiting for you.

This way.

Thank you.

Thank you very much.

Perfect. Wonderful.

We really must go.

Thank you.

What are you doing here? Good morning, Mr Preston. What are you doing here?

Miss Craig invited us.

That's not like her.

We're so excited, aren't we, Jean?

Why didn't she tell me?

Scene 48, take 19.

Sweet Lord, I am not worthy of this honor.

Is he ever going to say anything?

It's your line, Marina.

Wife is honor enough. I know what it is. Thank you very much.

I wouldn't hold your breath for a sequel.

And action.

My sweet Lord, I am not worthy of this honor.

Wife is honor enough.

Not worthy.

You are a thousand times worthy.

Our people await, my queen.

Oh, my lord.

Excuse me. Sorry. I have a line there.

Then why the hell didn't you say it? I didn't give you a chance. Dear God.

Okay, keep on rolling. Get that out of here!

And... Action!

My sweet lord, I am not worthy of this honor.

Why is honor enough?

Not worthy.

You are a thousand times worse.

Our people wait for my queen.

As equals, we shall appear before you.

Oh, my love.

Is he going to do it like that? Okay, hold it, hold it. Cut there.

Do it like what?

His hands sit below my waist. No, it didn't. Tell him, Jason. Casey, could

you make sure her hand stays above the waist?

It always does, Jason. I wouldn't dream of letting it go anywhere else. Let me

know when you've finished. Marina. Poppy.

She's quite a handful.

Jason! Jason!

Jason!

Who's Spence?

What's happening?

Marina thinks the coffee's been poisoned.

Good morning.

Good morning.

Beautiful weather.

Yes, isn't it?

Why on earth use the public call box?

Rather odd, I thought. So I telephoned the hall and wondered if the line was

down. And it wasn't. What do you think of that?

Clearly, Miss Blunt did not want to be overheard. Exactly.

And one has to ask oneself why.

She must have seen something at the party.

I'd agree that someone must have seen something.

The question is, why hasn't that person come forward?

Are you suggesting blackmail, Miss Marble?

Well, I wouldn't go so far as that.

Unless, of course, someone else gets killed.

How was it then?

It was the first day back on set and she played up something rotten. Did she?

You've no idea, Cherry. She's a right madam.

She thought her coffee was poisoned at one point and blamed me, do you think?

No. She did.

If it weren't for Mr. Red calming things down, I dread to think what might have

happened. What did he do?

He poured it away.

That's a bit silly, isn't it? How do you mean?

Because if it was poisoned, there'll be no way of knowing.

Do you think it might have been?

Well, if they can poison her cocktail... You know, I've been thinking about that.

When I was helping out the day of the party, I was quite close to her.

Heather Badcock, you mean?

Yes. When she got the cocktail all down her dress, there was something funny

about it.

What? Well, I didn't think anything of it at the time, but Mellie got over when

I popped into Cosington Hall the other day.

I'm almost sure she did it on purpose.

Spilled the cocktail on purpose?

Yes.

It's all right, really.

Sorry. Don't worry, it's only a Chanel.

That is a bit funny, isn't it?

Yes, it is.

I told Elephant about it. What for?

Because she's been going on and on at me about if I'd seen anything, and then I

thought, well, yes, I had.

The analysis of the coffee Marina complained about.

But you poured it away. I saw you.

Most of it.

I'm pretty adept at sleight of hand, you know.

Arsenic.

So she was right about it tasting bitter.

No.

Arsenic has no taste.

But her instinct was right.

And we thought she was just being hysterical.

Don't worry.

I've got more work out.

She was so happy here.

She said that at last she felt she could settle down.

Oh.

You didn't believe that, did you?

I thought there was a chance.

These things happen.

That's the way life is.

Some of us can take it.

Jaden, no one is going to oil her hair.

I've tried once, for God's sake.

Yes? Jane, Dolly, the Blunt woman, dead.

I'm afraid I have some rather bad news, sir.

Ella Blunt died this morning.

Oh, dear.

Cyanide poisoning.

How very unpleasant.

Why are you telling me this?

Didn't you know her?

Our paths have crossed once or twice, but... Wouldn't Jason Rudd... Be the man

to ask.

I thought you might know something he doesn't. Then I have to disappoint you,

Inspector. So there's nothing you could say that would be of assistance?

Mr. Hogg?

There is something.

Yes? A couple of days ago, I got a call.

I saw you do it.

What?

Did you recognize the voice?

No, but I know for a fact it was Ella Blunt.

How?

Achoo!

Why do you think she called you?

I haven't the faintest idea.

Come on now, pumpkin.

Marino, murder mayhem.

To have one murder under one's roof may be regarded as a misfortune. To have two

looks like carelessness.

Marina Gregg's rural evil has been blighted yet again by dastardly deeds,

this time in the shape of a poisoned atomizer inserted into the nostrils of

Miss Ella Blunt. Miss Blunt, the devoted secretary to Marina Gregg's boyish

husband, Jason Rudd, was a slave to hay fever and frequently had caused...

Dropping like flies, aren't they, Miss Marple? I wouldn't quite say that.

Primrose had a bit of a tinwag with Miss Blunt the other day.

Primrose? Primrose Dixon. She works at the studios.

She said she had something to tell her. What did she have to tell her? Well,

Primrose helped out on the day of the party, see? Serving drinks and that.

And ever since, that Miss Blunt has been going on and on asking her if she saw

anything. And if she did, it was her duty to tell her. And did she see

anything? Well, when she thought about it, yes.

Something did strike her as a bit funny, so she thought she'd better tell her.

And what was it, Cherry?

It was to do with Heather Badcock and the cocktail.

Oh, yes.

She said she did it herself.

Did what herself?

Spilt the cocktail all down her new dress.

You mean accidentally?

No. Primrose said she did it on purpose.

Spilt the cocktail on purpose? Yes. That is a bit funny, isn't it?

Yes. Yes, it is.

Don't make much sense, whichever way you look at it.

No.

No, it doesn't.

You get on quite well with Primrose, do you, Cherry? Oh, yes, Miss. We've known

each other since we were toddlers.

Good, because I have a suggestion I think you might quite like.

So Ella Blunt had it in mind to blackmail Vincent Hogg. But she got the

wrong person.

It seems she got the right one in the end.

Yes, but I'm at a loss as to know who. Must be losing my touch. None of that,

Inspector.

I would simply remind you that, in my experience, it is nearly always the

obvious person.

Meaning Jason Rudd? Well, yes, but he seems so very devoted.

One cannot see that he has any kind of motive.

What reason did he give you for throwing away the coffee? He should surely have

left it for you.

Precisely, but he didn't think there was anything wrong with it.

Now, it seems that ever since the day of the party, Miss Gregg has thought that

everything was poisoned. But it transpires that he didn't throw it all

away. He kept some, had it analysed, and found it was poisoned.

How interesting.

Miss Marple.

Yes? What you told me about Margot Bentz being adopted by Miss Gregg. You really

believe that after all these years... Yes, I do.

Children remember, Inspector.

Grouch and injustice, sorrow.

They do remember.

Yes.

Yes, I know.

My mother, when she died, I was six years old in the nursery having tea.

Freshly baked scones straight from the oven.

A maid rushed in and whispered to Nanny, there's been a dreadful accident.

The mistress, she's been killed.

And I didn't cry or speak. I just stared at the scones, still warm from the oven.

And even now, whenever I see a plate full of scones, I'm filled with sadness.

For a moment, I don't remember, but... Then I do.

Ridiculous, isn't it?

On the contrary, Inspector.

It is most revealing.

It's your mother.

Accounts vary somewhat, but the gist's the same.

It's the variations that might provide the clue.

Well, according to your friend Mrs.

Bantry, Heather Badcock said something like, You won't remember, but years ago

in Bermuda, I got up from bed when I had chicken pox and came along to see you

and you gave me an autograph.

Now... Jason Rudd says that Miss Badcock left her bed with flu to get Marina

Gregg's autograph.

Did he say when this was?

About 12 or 13 years ago.

I see.

What? Not quite as much as I'd like to. If only I knew why she'd ruined her new

dress. Who, Miss Badcock?

Yes, it seems such a very odd thing to do.

Unless... Of course. Oh, I must be very stupid.

I am glad that girl is safely in Bournemouth. What girl? Primrose Dixon,

the one who works at the studios and spoke to Ella Blunt. How in heaven's

name do you know she's in Bournemouth?

Because I asked Cherry to take her there on a little holiday.

Why on earth did he do that?

Because I don't want her to get killed, of course.

Chicken pox.

You're sure?

Well, something like that. I was talking about vodka at the time, so I wasn't

really listening.

She didn't say whooping cough.

Whooping cough?

She wouldn't put on make-up whooping cough.

Make-up?

It was the make-up that made you think Jenny Fox.

Or maybe it was Nettle Rush.

Oh, you're hopeless, Dolly.

Yes. Yes, thank you so much. But Mr. Rudd doesn't see anybody without an

appointment. Oh, I still need to see him. He really can't be disturbed. Oh,

I'm sure he can. Look, why don't you tell me what it is that you want? Well,

I already have.

I need to see Mr. Rudd. Miss Marple... This is where Marina Gregg would have

received her gift.

Am I right?

Yes. Yes, and I expect she would have been standing about here.

Yes, she was. You know, you remind me... Remind me of someone I once knew.

Gerald French.

What did he do?

Not a lot.

Had a most unfortunate past.

What kind of a past?

Oh, I couldn't possibly say.

If you'd be so kind as to fetch Mr. Rudd.

We've got to use this marble.

Don't worry, I'll be perfectly all right.

I understand now, Mr. Rudd.

The whole thing is really very simple.

So simple, one just couldn't see it.

What can I do for you, Miss Marple?

Thank you so much for seeing me.

This is really not the best time.

Ah.

An inspector calls.

Out flew the net and floated wide. The mirror cracked from side to side.

The curse has come upon me, cried the Lady of Shalott.

That's how Dolly Bantry described it.

The look on your wife's face.

Although actually she misquoted. She said doom instead of curse.

Perhaps a better word in the circumstances.

On the day of the party, while Heather Badcock was talking to your wife, Marina

was not looking at her, but at that picture.

A picture of a serene mother and child.

And though there was doom foreshadowed in your wife's face, it was not on her

the doom would fall.

It was Heather Badcock who was doomed from the moment she started talking.

I don't follow.

Why should you?

No one has told you exactly what she said.

But they have, Miss Marple, over and over again.

But not... The crucial phrase, because no-one thought it was important.

I was just a girl, absolutely thrilled at the prospect of seeing you in the

flesh. I've always been the most huge fan, but the most ridiculous thing was,

on that day, I went down with the temperature and the doctor said I

couldn't go.

What a pity. Can you imagine my disappointment, Miss Gray?

What did the doctor say it was?

German measles.

I wasn't feeling really ill. I only had this little rash on my cheek, so I said

to myself, I won't be beaten.

I got up, flapped the make-up on and went along.

Oh, please, I may be... Oh!

German measles?

That is correct, isn't it, Mr Rudd?

Yes.

A very slight illness, really.

A rash, a little fever, but extremely infectious.

And if a woman contracts it in the early stages of pregnancy, the consequences

can be devastating.

I think I'm right in saying your wife had a child who was born greatly damaged

and that she's never really recovered from the shock.

She never knew how or when or from whom she... Until the day of the party, when

a perfectly strange woman came up those stairs and told her.

And what made it worse, Heather Badcock was proud of what she'd done.

She thought she'd been resourceful and brave in getting up from her sickbed and

covering her rash with make-up in order to meet her idol, and boasted of it all

through her life.

She never meant any harm, but people like her lack any real consideration for

the way their actions may affect others.

Imagine what that moment meant for Marina.

For years she'd nursed a kind of hatred for this unknown person who'd caused her

tragedy. And suddenly she meets that person face to face.

A person who seemed so happy and carefree and pleased with herself.

It was more than she could bear.

Had she had time to think, to calm herself? But she didn't.

She always had her pills with her, so it was very easy to do.

She put the stuff into her own glass, and by any chance anyone noticed, they

wouldn't have thought anything of it, having seen her take them before.

She bided her time and presently found the opportunity.

She managed to jog Heather Bedcock's arm so that she spilt her drink.

Don't worry, it's only Chanel.

And that was where the confusion lay.

I only had the account of what Primrose Dixon reported to Cherry.

She said how funny it was that she seemed to spill the drink on purpose.

Yes. But the she that Primrose referred to was not Heather Badcock, but Marina

Gregg.

It was really the perfect matter.

Why don't you? I haven't touched it yet.

Please do. I've had far too much already.

She wanted Heather Badcock dead.

And a few minutes later, she was.

But then she was afraid, afraid someone had seen and could see only one way out,

to insist that the murder had been aimed at her.

She gave the performance of her life.

Jason!

And only one person saw through it.

This is...

Only a theory.

But you know it's the truth, don't you, Mr. Rudd?

You know because you knew from the first.

Can you imagine my disappointment?

What did the doctor say it was?

German measles.

I didn't know who he is.

She would go to any length to prove that she was the intended victim, even down

to doctoring her own coffee.

That was her, wasn't it, Mr. Rudd?

Yes, I...

You were frantic to protect her, but you didn't realize how much you would have

to protect her from.

It's not only a question of hushing up one death, but also the death of Emma

Blunt.

Who finally found the right person to blackmail, thanks to Primrose Dixon.

Sorry for you, Mr. Rudd.

The agony you've been through because you care for her so much.

Mr. Rudd, I need to speak to your wife.

I'm afraid that won't be possible.

It's all over, sir. You can't make excuses for her any longer.

Now, where can I find her?

In her bedroom, Inspector.

She died last night in her sleep.

That's right.

Was it an accident?

In my opinion, yes.

But it could be suicide.

It could, but it's most unlikely.

Or someone could have given it to her.

It's almost impossible to prove.

Doctor.

Excuse me.

Such a beautiful creature and such a wonderful gift.

How sad that she couldn't let go of the past and see the future as it really

was.

It's very fortunate she took an overdose.

Death was really the only escape left.

Yes, Mr. Rudd.

Very fortunate indeed.

She was so lovely and she had suffered so much.

Okay.