Original subtitles

Thank you.

Are you a Roberts?

Yes, Mr. Rickers.

Did you have a good journey?

Excellent. The stagecoach from Dover made very good time to London, but it

was a slow drive out to Epping. True, but it's necessary.

London's too far from the danger point. Yes, I suppose the forest is a fine

hideout for the damn traitors. Yes, it is. But I feel we're getting hot.

I think my dispatches from Dover will help you, too. Good.

They are under seal, I suppose. Oh, yes, and quite safe. Fine.

The commandant will be here for them in the morning, so guard them well.

By the way, where are you sleeping?

At the Star.

An excellent choice, too.

Well, you've done a fine job at Dover, Roberts.

Oh, thank you, sir.

Well, good night. Good night, Roberts.

Good night, sir. And sleep well.

Thank you.

No sign of him yet.

Why do we have to meet him in this Lazio?

Ah, don't ask me.

This is the old blind beggar's hideout.

I suppose he's a pal of his.

We must ask him to meet us at the Tabard Inn next time.

You ask him, not me.

I wonder what his game is.

Why, what's it matter? He pays well.

Five quid for every one we drops from whopping down to Tim's mouth.

And no questions asked.

There ain't to be sneezed at.

I suppose not.

I wonder what's down there.

It's the old beggar's wine cellar.

Let's have a look.

Yeah.

It's locked.

Oh, stop that!

Go on, give it a ruddy ease.

What's this, you rats?

Spine!

Why, we were only... I pay you to obey orders, nothing else.

Try any games, and I'll screw your blasted necks with pleasure. Well,

do you play fair or not?

Anything you say, Chief. Anything?

Anything I say?

Yes. Absolutely.

Even if it were... Well?

Well? Oh, whatever your orders.

Yes, and that goes for me, too. Good, then we understand each other.

Is the boat ready at Wapping? Yes, Chief.

I shall have another customer for you soon.

How shall we know when?

The usual manner.

Huh. Squire Sedgefield.

So you don't like him either, eh? Oh, he likes him all right, but he's tough.

Most men in my pay have to be. Of course they have. They're no good if they

ain't. Good.

Then that is all.

Who's the passenger?

One that you've had before.

George Heaney.

Right, Chief.

George Heaney.

Now, take a look at this map.

Kelly's no longer safe.

You'll have to be landed farther down the coast.

I don't know the coast below Kelly.

Then you'll have to keep your wits about you, Mr. Heningham.

I don't like it.

By the way, the password's altered.

Read it.

Thanks. Just for safety.

I tell you I can't go on with it.

I'm getting out of it all.

Tell that to the man who pays us.

Pays me.

Pays you.

More devil than man.

Maybe. But he keeps his bargain.

Five hundred pounds a time.

Not bad.

I shouldn't like to be you if you ratted on him.

Have a drink.

Yes.

Yes, yes.

I'm scared.

Scared? What of?

Everything.

What's that?

The old blind beggar. I haven't seen him around here lately.

I expect he's off to the barracks.

The officers often give him a few coins.

Not scared of him, are you?

No, not of him.

I can't help thinking it's very fortunate the barracks are so near to

us. Fortunate?

The very walls frighten me.

Absurd. Fate played right into our hands when Captain Waden was posted here to

Wepping. Almost next door to his own father's house.

And so near to you.

His bosom friend.

Oh, my God.

Don't be a fool, George.

You've got free entry to the barracks.

And barrack room gossip in these days is worth... Well, shall we say 500 pounds

a bagful?

Have another drink.

No more.

Oh, well.

You'd better be going.

What time are you meeting Raiden there tonight?

I'm not going there.

Not going?

No.

To hell with it all.

I'll face anything, even that devil who pays me.

I'll... Go on. What next?

You'd better know.

I've been snake enough to use my friendship for Captain Raiden to worm

things out of him that you want to know.

But by heavens, I'll do it no longer.

Enough of this damn nonsense. I know what's the bottom of it all.

Actually, I've just told you. Oh, no, you've not. As usual, it's a woman.

You've fallen in love with his sister Rose.

That makes things difficult. You dare... Being at school with Radon didn't stop

your using him. But now that you're after the sister... Stop!

I've finished.

And that's enough.

We shall see.

But I'll tell you one other thing.

You'll never marry Rose Raiden. And why not?

I'd rather not say.

You wouldn't like it. What new lie are you concocting?

Good evening, George.

Good evening, Helen.

I came for a book, Father.

George has just been talking about his old school days with Captain Radon.

How interesting.

There's their meeting at the barracks tonight.

We should congratulate Captain Radon on his high jump at the cavalry sports

yesterday. Almost seven feet. An honest jump.

How amazing.

But those queer tales about leaps of 10 or 15 feet are absurd.

Unless he's got some trick boots with strong springs inside them.

Well, they do call him Spring-Heeled Jack, don't they, George?

It's really rather ridiculous.

Yes, it is rather.

I have my book, Father.

A pleasant evening to you, George.

Good night, Helen.

A timely intervention.

Calm after a storm.

Well, you better be going.

We may have to meet, well, you know whom, any day now.

I've told you, I'm not going.

I think you will.

George?

I carried that off well, didn't I?

Admirably. Hush. I received Jack's letter yesterday at the beauty parlor.

Tell him I meet him tomorrow as usual, will you please?

Yes, of course, if I see him.

If you see him?

Aren't you going to the barracks?

Father said you were spending the evening with Jack.

Well, I was, but... I

thought you'd left.

I was talking to Helen.

Yes.

I was listening.

Come in just a moment.

Well, since you've listened, what do you want?

Close the door.

So you carry love messages between my daughter and Raiden? I do.

What are you going to do about it? Oh, nothing.

Nothing at all.

I've known all the time.

You've known all the time?

Yes.

This lovemaking, Helen and Raiden, it pleases me.

It pleases me greatly.

But Helen, she thinks she's afraid... I know.

That's why she's hidden it from me.

Then you mean you'd consent?

Never.

There'll be no marriage between Raiden and my daughter. I don't understand.

It pleases you greatly?

You'll never consent?

What devil's game are you playing?

Chess.

With human pieces.

You're one.

Helen's another.

Listen, George Henium.

Tonight you've hinted pretty strongly that you intend to rat.

I think you should know that I've made plans to meet that possibility.

More threats?

No.

Just two strings to my bow.

Talk sense.

Excellent. I won't waste words.

If you play straight, you are valuable.

Your contacts with Raiden make you profitable to our plans.

Undoubtedly. Undoubtedly.

But if you play false...

And may God help you if you do.

Then one string to my bow breaks.

And the other string...

is Helen.

Helen?

Is she a part of your damnable schemes?

Oh, no.

She knows nothing.

Nothing at all.

But if you should, well, have to disappear, then she'll probably gather

in all innocence even more barrack room gossip than you ever could.

You'll use your own daughter for this villainy?

Yes, up to a point.

But not to manage with Raiden.

I'd save her from that curse.

Curse? What curse?

Oh, I thought you knew.

Apparently you don't.

The curse of insanity.

The curse of the Raidens.

Another of your damn lies!

No lie.

The truth for once.

The Raidens keep their secret well, but insanity is hereditary with them.

It runs its course with one or other of the brood.

Moments of sanity.

Moments of sheer bloodlust. Stop, you devil!

I'll choke that lie down your throat!

I know, I know, the truth often hurts.

But I warn you, Raiden's friendly hands may one day strangle you in cold blood.

I'll hear no more.

Do as you please.

I've finished with you.

Rattle us if you want to, but face the consequences.

Do you hear me?

Face the consequences.

George. Come in.

Ah, George.

Nice to see you. Come and sit down.

I didn't really intend to come tonight.

But don't say that to me have a drink Good stuff

got it from dad's cellar yesterday

Any news of Helen?

Yes, she got your note.

She'll meet you as usual tomorrow.

Ah, she's a darling.

I say, I suppose the squire hasn't smelt a rat, has he?

Smelt a rat? What do you mean?

About me and Helen.

Oh, well, who cares?

She knows her own mind. She's of age.

What can he do?

He's an evil person.

Yes, I suppose he is, really.

There's no supposing about it, he is.

Well, you should know.

You've been with him quite a bit lately.

What is it, a business deal or something?

No, not exactly.

Well, I should keep my eyes open if I were you.

He's a wily old bird.

You hard up again?

No, it's not that.

We're lively in there tonight.

Yes, exciting news from Dover.

We're on the track of those damn spies at last.

I've asked the Colonel to post me in the job.

I'd revel in a bit of counter-espionage, wouldn't you?

No, I daren't. I haven't the plaque.

It's my nerves. I don't know, but they seem all to pieces lately.

There's something on your mind, George.

What's worrying you?

Nothing, really.

Something is wrong.

What is it?

Can't you drop it, Jack?

Don't you trust me?

If I told you... Yes?

Oh, God, I can't.

Give me time, please.

All right, old chap.

Take your time.

Pray be seated, gentlemen.

If I'm wanted, send for me a theta.

And now I must be going.

Send for Radon, quickly.

I've got some good news for the boy.

Indeed, sir? Yes.

Now, come on, George, out with it.

You're in some mess.

I can't. I... Shall I guess?

What do you know?

Come in.

Oh, sorry, Rayton. The Colonel wants to see you at once. They're Dover business.

The Dover business.

All right, George, don't go.

You stay here. I shan't be long.

Oh, I don't think so.

You sent for me, sir?

Yes. I'm in rather a hurry, but I wanted you to know your application for

transfer to the secret branch is granted.

Here it is.

Thank you very much, sir.

Congratulations. Thank you, sir. We'll have a talk in the morning.

Good night.

Good night, sir.

The Epping Beauty Parlor is crowded lately.

And with good reason.

Our brother officers appear to find it most attractive.

But cherchez la femme.

The charming Helen Sedgefield takes her vapor bath there daily.

Aphrodite rising from the foam.

Venus enticing Mars all over again.

Payne, I want a word with you.

Well, what is it? What do you want? You insulted Helen Sedgefield in my hearing.

I demand an instant apology.

There's my answer, you cradles, Tony.

Stop it, you fools.

Are you both mad?

Far from it, sir.

But Lieutenant Payne insulted Helen Sedgefield.

To be settled by a pothouse brawl? No, sir. I demand satisfaction.

Swords or pistols, here, tonight.

Dueling between officers is not allowed.

And a penalty of death to the challenger.

Those are King's regulations.

Damn King's regulations.

I refuse to obey them.

But that sneering puppy may be too scared to meet me. Oh, no.

I'd like to give the braggart a lesson.

You! Stop it! Rain, do you hear me?

I beg your pardon, gentlemen.

Midnight, here.

Salt.

Jack, I heard it all.

For heaven's sake, give up this mad idea.

You must.

You know the penalty.

Are you the keeper of my conscience?

It's your life that's at stake.

Think, man.

Court-martial. A firing squad.

Is a duel worth that?

Would you have me go and apologize to that swine?

Dear Mr. Payne, I don't want to fight this duel.

Hell!

Who's mad, you or I?

Please go.

I've much to do.

But Jack... Do you hear me? Leave me alone.

Forgive me, sir.

What on earth's the matter?

Has Boney landed?

Are the French here?

It must be Jack.

Something's happened to him.

Oh, it's fish. There's always something happening to him.

What's he been up to this time?

What is this all about?

Well, I'm... Oh, don't stand there chattering like an old woman. You scare

the life out of me, then you start mumbling and muttering.

Come on out with it.

What is the matter?

I've come straight from the barracks.

Jack's quarreled with an officer.

There's been a frantic row.

He's challenged the man to a duel.

With swords, there, tonight.

Well, what of it?

The Raidens were never cowards.

But, sir, surely you... Don't interrupt.

Who's the man?

They've told him Payne.

That conceited foe.

Jack'll make a pincushion of him.

But, sir, have you forgotten?

Forgotten? Forgotten what?

King's regulations.

Dueling between officers has been forbidden.

The penalty for the challenger is death.

Death?

My God, yes, of course.

A new order.

I had forgotten that.

What are we to do?

Only one thing.

Stop the duel.

All the officers have tried, but Jack won't listen.

Only you can prevent it. I? How?

Well, the colonel's a close friend of yours.

He's away from barracks with his brother at Thayden.

If he knew, he'd stop it.

But it's a matter of minutes now.

Hardly an hour.

But I'm an old man.

Do you think I can ride like a trooper? No, but I can.

Write a short letter to the colonel. Trust me to find him.

I'll ride like the devil. I like twenty devils.

Where's McQuill?

Here, father.

There. That'll stare the Colonel.

Jack, what's going on here?

Oh, so you've come to your senses.

Have you dared to interfere with my plans?

I'd dare anything to save your life.

Leave me to look after that myself.

Better for you to guard your own. Are you going on with this damn foolishness?

If you mean am I going to fight Lieutenant Payne, yes.

What's it all for?

A lady's honour.

Ah, some fancy woman.

If you weren't my father, you'd pay for that, sir. Jack, have you taken leave of

your senses?

Don't you think you'd better go?

I came here to speak to my father, alone.

There's little time left.

As you wish.

Is there still time?

I hope so.

Are the stables open? Yes. Take my mare. She goes like the wind.

Hurry. Leave that to me.

Goodbye, Rose.

I'm sorry, Father.

But a lady I one day hope to make my wife was slandered.

Is that enough?

Heron Sedgefield. Yes.

Don't like the father.

I'm not interested in him.

Damn the Sedgefields.

You're not fighting this duel.

Nothing is going to prevent me.

Fool. Fool.

I'm sorry, father.

Let's talk.

There's so much I have to tell you.

Ha, ha, ha, ha.

You seem scared, Sedgefield.

I didn't expect you.

But you're welcome, just the same.

I'm glad of that. I want to speak to you, but I haven't much time.

Sit down.

A glass of wine.

Sit down!

You lost your hearing as well as your senses?

My sherry is excellent.

My news is not so good for you.

Not good for me.

Who's been talking?

Someone who knows.

Yes, that's what I like to see. A strong man.

Frightened.

It was only my fun.

Just a little test.

They told me you were pretty hard.

And I wanted to see how quickly you'd break.

Now, I know.

I see.

Just playing with me.

Just playing.

Then there's no news.

Oh, yes, there is.

Excellent news.

Some of our movements down at Dover have aroused suspicion.

Information has reached Epping, under seal, to our friends, the Bow Street

Runners.

Hardly excellent news.

I think it is.

You see...

I have those letters.

You have them?

How did you get them? In my own peculiar way.

And I've come to warn you to be very, very careful.

Stranger things might happen tonight.

Stranger things?

Much.

You'll know in good time.

You know...

We're two cunning old rascals.

There's only one thing you lack.

Guts.

Yes.

An excellent sheriff.

That's all my friend.

Keep awake.

I may be back.

I'm God.

Fight on. Fight on.

Fight on.

Fight on.

Fight on. Fight on.

Fight on. Fight on.

Fight on.

Fight on. Fight on. Fight on. Fight on. Fight on. Fight on.

Fight on.

Gentlemen,

I am surprised at this obvious breach of King's regulation.

I understand you are the challenger.

I place you under house arrest.

You will go to your room immediately.

Lieutenant Woods will accompany you.

Lieutenant Payne, you will report to me in the morning at 10.

Gentlemen, you will retire immediately.

We will go into this disgraceful affair tomorrow.

I never thought for one moment that the old man would turn up this time of

night.

I'm

terribly

sorry, Raiden.

Is there anything I can do?

It's all right, old chap.

I thought we could have got it over without his knowing.

I'm sick of letting the Colonel down.

He's been a good friend. Perhaps he'll smooth it out.

No.

No, he's a stickler for regulations.

Hard and fast to the last letter.

And I know what that means. So do I.

My God, if he does.

But he can't. King's regulations, Woods.

I say, old chap, do you think you could get me some brandy? I've only got some

port and sherry here.

Of course.

Thanks.

Yes, I know. I had a fall.

Where's your master?

Upstairs. Well, get him.

Go on, quick.

Dennis. To your room, Winch.

I heard your voice.

What's happened?

Have you had an accident, Captain?

You're hurt. No, no, Dennis. Listen, there's no time to waste. They're after

me. Never mind what for. You'll learn soon enough. Will you help me? What a

question to ask your old Batman. Will I help you? Anything you want, name it.

Good man, Dennis. Look, I want to get out of this uniform. Is that room all

right?

Yes. Come along, sir.

Come along. Thanks a lot.

Keep still, sir. There's somebody at the door.

Mr. Heeningham.

Thank the Lord it's you.

Raiden, is he here? Yes, in there.

Has he told you?

Not much.

Let me see him.

Wait a minute, sir.

He's gone.

He's clean away.

We'll never find him.

He's in the forest by now, and he knows every foot of it.

Never mind. We'll try tomorrow.

Here. He gave me a note from Miss Helen.

Wants her to get it quick. Will you take it?

You know where he hides them for her.

Trust me.

Anything to help Jack. That goes for me, too.

Well, I'll be going.

Good night, Dennis.

Good luck, sir.

Good evening, Helium. Come in.

I didn't know you were here.

A pleasant surprise, I trust.

Good news from the barracks? Yes, good news for me. I shan't have to go there

again. Indeed?

And why not?

Raiden's escaped.

Escaped? What from?

Court martial.

Are you drunk or dreaming?

I wish it were a dream.

Well, out with it, man.

What's that mad fool Raiden done now? Challenged and fought a blackguard who

slandered your daughter's name.

The colonel was too late to stop the duel.

Raiden was arrested, but he's got clean away.

Well, and what of that?

They'll soon get him.

Not if I can help it. Oh, and why not? Because it means court-martial and the

death penalty.

Does that mean nothing?

Nothing to me.

Not so good for him.

But that means the end of our barrack room contact.

Thank God for that. Is that all?

No other news?

Yes. Lies. Cursed lies.

They found the body of the sentry. Strangled.

Murdered. Those damn fools are accusing him of that.

The curse of the Raiden. Another foul lie.

Raiden's no madman and no murderer either.

I think you'd better go, Headingham. You're not yourself.

Get home.

Have some rest. Rest?

Not until I've found Jack Raiden.

That fool's a broken reed. He's no more use to us.

That's where you're wrong, Squire. He'll be more useful than ever. In all

innocence, he will lead the Bow Street Runners straight to Mr.

Jack Raiden.

What good's that to us? You're growing old, Squire.

Your wits weren't waking up.

That's an insult.

I intended it to be.

You need a shock.

I think we'd better say goodnight, sir.

Not yet.

We must have a quiet chat.

When you are calmer.

Not here, at the beggar's hut.

I'll go ahead.

It would be very unfortunate if you kept me waiting.

Unfortunate, I mean.

For you.

Oh, so you've come.

Good. That was wise of you.

You look as if you'd been hurrying.

Why do you bring me here at this hour?

I don't like the forest at night. Indeed.

That's just when I do like it.

I have an interesting little sanctum down below.

We'll have our conversation there.

You go first, Squire.

One moment, Squire. I think that now you'd better follow me.

Come in, Squire.

A grim place, but useful.

Very useful.

I beg you make yourself at home.

You were telling me tonight about the curse of the ravens.

I'm very interested.

Tell me more.

Is that all you wanted me for?

That's all.

Well?

I only know what I've heard.

It was all before I came here. No matter.

Go on.

Well, the story goes that old George Radon, the captain's father, had a

younger brother who lived with the family.

Jack was only a boy then, and Rose was just a baby.

And what was the brother's name?

Oh, uh, Philip.

Philip Radon.

Go on.

Well, they say he was a queer fellow.

Always dabbling with odd bits of machinery.

Had some mad idea that he'd discovered a new mechanical power that would

revolutionize industry.

Had he?

Was it a mad idea?

No one knows.

He never finished his experiments.

Pity.

Great pity.

Why?

Well, the rumor is that he fell in love with his brother's wife.

Made advances to her which she rejected.

And then... In a sudden fit of terrible rage, he strangled her. And what then?

To save the family name from the stain of the gallows, George had his brother

certified as a lunatic.

Said that insanity was hereditary in the family.

The curse of the reigns, eh?

Yes. And what happened to Philip?

Oh, he was put into an asylum in France somewhere.

Is he still alive?

Well, Bonaparte put an end to news, but the Raidens heard that he'd died, oh,

years before, in an attempt to escape.

Anyhow, they've never heard of him since.

Strange story.

Very. Very.

It was in this old mill that Philip experimented.

George shut it up, let it go to rack and ruin.

Sold the old dower house for a song to Toby Watts, who turned part of it into

an inn.

The Tavern.

You heard of it, hadn't you?

I've seen it.

Well, that's all I know.

That's mostly hearsay.

So you never met Philip Radon?

No, and I'm not sorry either.

Shouldn't think old George Radon would like to see him again, eh?

A dug-up corpse?

I should think not.

The man's been dead and buried long ago.

Yes, it would be a nasty sort of joke, wouldn't it?

Sanchfield.

Philip Radon.

is neither dead nor buried.

What?

Alive?

Where? Here.

In this den.

With you.

I am Philip Radon.

Impossible. I was put to a far worse agony than the hangman's rope.

into the straitjacket of a lunatic asylum.

But I escaped, and I'm now back in a land I hate. A land that Bonaparte will

destroy utterly.

But I want money, and then more money for my inventions.

My French business provides some, but not enough.

The Raiden inheritance would be mine if that damn brood of Raidens were

exterminated. Look around.

My room.

My old workbench.

But I'm back again to take revenge to the uttermost limit.

I'll have no hand in this. Oh, yes, you will.

You and I stand together or hang together at the end of a rope until this

raiden scum, father, son, and daughter are out of my way.

Are your wits sharper now?

Already fate plays into my hands.

Captain Jack Radon, our wonderful spring-heeled Jack, will be laid by

those heels and either shot or hanged. They'll never hang Radon for dueling.

He's too fine an officer for that. No, but they would for murder.

I saw to that.

You saw to that?

Sentry, you!

It was you.

Yes. It was an amazing opportunity.

I never waste time.

I act.

Now let's change the subject.

Something more amusing. A little trick I learned in France.

There's a dark patch on the wall. It's level with your head.

Look.

Now, watch.

And watch again.

Clever, isn't it? Horrible.

Devilish.

But useful, my dear Squire.

Very useful.

And now there's just one thing more that I have to show you.

No more.

I've seen enough.

You refuse?

No, I... No, I... I thought not.

Good.

Allow me.

Come then.

Come along, Squire.

This way.

Don't slip.

It's very deep.

What is it? An old sump.

I drained it out years ago.

What's it for?

My amusement.

Have you ever read of the tortures of the Spanish Inquisition?

That gave me the idea.

It took a long time, even though the power was to have.

The old military.

But it works.

It works!

Inch by inch, until they meet, and then... Teddy,

I don't want to lose you.

Yet.

Horrible!

Horrible!

I'm going now.

I can't stand the war.

You see, Monet?

You do so hate the forest at night.

Shall I come with you?

Good night, Squire.

Sleep well.

Have you heard the news? No, what? A sentry's been murdered. And they think

Radon has done it. Good God.

Jack Radon?

I don't believe it.

We've tied him down to the forest and we'll get him.

I tell you, I saw him jump.

Fifteen feet it were.

Courage, Helen.

Everywhere I go, there's posters.

Jack wanted for murder.

Don't lose faith. Jack's no murderer. I know.

Oh, I know.

Why didn't George stop that senseless duel?

I don't know. I can't forgive him. Look at those people.

Think of what they're saying.

Lies about the duel. Lies about me.

Lies about Jack.

Oh, I can't stand it. I must get home. Away from it all.

But Helen... Don't go, Helen. Please.

Don't you think it makes me look much younger?

Personally, I can't see any difference at all.

Who is that man? I don't know. I've seen him in the town once or twice.

He makes me shiver.

My dear young ladies, I feel you're in distress.

Can I be of any assistance?

It's nothing, sir. Thank you. Oh, but surely.

A private matter, sir. We would rather not discuss.

I still feel I can be of assistance.

Sir, your persistence annoys us. I hope you will go away.

As you please.

The street is full of scandal mongers.

I can't face them.

Let's go by the forest way.

I think you're very wise.

At your service, sir.

They tell me, sir, that your Peruvian pomade is excellent. It is, sir. A

secret recipe of the Incas, in great demand by gentlemen of quality.

May I have a jar?

With pleasure, sir.

And the cost?

A guinea, sir.

Reasonable? Quite.

Pleasant. Very pleasant.

Your beauty parlor, sir, is well named.

I'm a great traveler myself, but seldom have I seen such... Beautiful patron.

Very charming remark, sir.

And the young lady I was speaking to just now, who is she?

A Miss Alice Macon.

She's a handsome wench.

She is.

Very. Well, you tell me this scoundrel Spring-Heel Jack had ever a fancy for a

pretty girl.

Let's hope he never sets eyes on her.

No, no, sir.

Well, I bid you good morning.

And I will report to you on the plumber.

Thank you, sir.

Helen, you startled me.

I thought you were in the town.

I was, but I came home. I can't stand those dreadful streets again.

What are you talking about? The evil gossip, the wicked lies.

Jack, Captain Raiden's name posted as a murderer.

Doesn't that shock you?

Is it a lie? I don't know.

Father, how can you question it?

Helen, what does this mean?

Don't ask me.

But Helen...

I can't tell you.

Please.

Any news?

Nothing. I've searched for four days. Not a sign.

But I know he's in the forest somewhere.

Have you seen Rose?

Yes. She left with Alice a little while ago.

Which way were they going?

By the forest path.

Right. I'll see you later.

It's George. I won't meet him. Let's go, quick. We can't, Rose. He's seen him.

No, no, I won't forgive him.

Rose. I'll walk on ahead.

Please listen.

How dare you let me go?

I know why you're angry with me. I know why you've avoided me.

Because I failed to stop the duel.

Then isn't that sufficient reason? No.

The Colonel was too late. It was no fault of mine.

Indeed. The fault of my mare, I suppose.

No, she went faster than the wind.

She seemed to know how much depended on her.

Then why did you fail?

Because I kept my temper.

The damn pompous ass of an adjutant at Thaden kept me waiting ten precious

minutes. The colonel was furious when he knew.

If I'd knocked the fool down, we should have been in time.

I swear I tried.

But I know I failed.

I'm sorry, George.

I understand now.

Rose.

What of my brother?

What can we do? Find him. Then protect him. I know he's in this forest

somewhere.

Get back to Alice now.

Everything will be all right.

Goodbye, George.

Forget my silly anger.

Goodbye, Rose.

There just now, sir.

We've just found a young girl in strength.

Who is it? A Miss Alice Maitland.

Alice Maitland.

I wouldn't if I were you, sir. Not a very pretty sight.

I'm off to get Mr. Rickers.

Captain Radon has a lot to answer for.

100 guineas reward.

Wanted for murder.

Captain Jack Radon for murder in diverse places in the

county of Essex.

Anyone giving information leading to his capture

will receive 100 guineas reward.

God save the king.

How many more murders before they catch him? Plenty, mark my words.

Aye, that sentry a week ago, and then that there woman at Faden. And now Alice

Maitland yesterday.

Who's going to be the next?

Aye, there'll be a next one all right.

He ain't finished yet.

Oh, we women are so scared.

Won't risk the forest.

Nay, and the children won't go outdoors to play neither.

When we mend the hands on him, we'll lynch him.

Captain Raiden.

Captain Satan, I calls him. No, no, not so fast.

I've known Jack Radon from a boy. He's the finest officer and gentleman I've

ever known.

Why, he's no more a murderer than I am.

Ah, well, that there Bill says so.

Aye, that's a lie.

Hey, what's the matter, Keeper?

Another. Aye?

Murder.

Once did.

A girl.

I've seen her.

Strangled.

Oh, give me a drink, for God's sake.

Now do you believe what I told you about Jack Radon?

Captain Ray, I wouldn't believe it.

No, I'm sure.

There's always a streak of madness in the family. I've always recovered your

breath. Give us the details.

Yes, I'll let you find it.

So find all these.

How did you get this?

The maid was sweeping. A stone came through the window, wrapped up in that

note, and hit her in the back.

Didn't she see him? No, she just screamed and dropped everything.

He says, at the old meeting place, from now on.

That means tonight.

I'll go now.

I'll get to know the truth.

I'll force it from him.

You don't begin to think, oh, it's impossible.

You can't believe it. I daren't.

I won't.

But there are strange things afoot.

Only an hour ago, I saw Rose for a moment.

And she told me something that frightens me.

What in heaven's name did she say?

That old Raiden believes Jack is the murderer.

What? His own father believes that?

Yes.

I'll get going.

I know where to find him now.

George, we had to meet.

I wish it hadn't been necessary.

But there are things I want to know that only you can tell me.

And there are things I want to know that only you can tell me.

They must wait.

First, I must know what manner of man you are.

What do you mean by that?

Are you a spy in the pay of France?

I... I think you've answered me.

God help me.

Then you knew.

Not for certain.

But I do now.

Jack, listen.

I was foolish, tempted.

I needed money badly.

They got me in their grip. I tried to break away.

They threatened to kill me if I did. So you're still a spy?

No, no, no.

I finished.

I'm through.

I know I'm doomed when they realize... Stop.

I only escaped for one purpose.

I knew of this French plot, but not enough.

I had to be free to track the traitors down. I have almost.

But not quite.

When I know all, I'll tell all.

And then surrender myself to punishment.

Oh, you must despise me.

Yes. Jack, listen.

I've told you I've finished with them.

Trust me, believe me, put me to any tests you like.

I won't fail you.

I wonder.

What was it you wished to ask me?

Jack, these awful stories they're telling about you. Those cursed reward

notices. I've seen them.

Go on.

Even your own father believes they're true.

He's helping Rickers.

Jack, they are lies.

Foul, cursed lies.

Aren't they?

You're not sure yourself, are you, George? I must know the truth.

Are they lies?

Jack, tell me. Please, tell me.

Are they lies?

Murder's no laughing matter. I agree.

then will you tell me no no no you'll fail the test george

test look out runners

You?

You dare to face me?

Why not?

You ask me why not?

Yes. I'm your son.

Does that mean nothing to you?

Son?

I have no son.

Must I repeat my words?

Father, you must... Stand back.

Don't touch me.

Then you... You believe those devilish lies.

Yes, and worse.

God forgive me for fathering such a monster.

Then you'd better send for your toady, Mr. Rickers.

Do you realize what that means?

He'll be here any moment.

Judging by my reception here, no doubt it'll please you.

Wait.

Before you send for Rickers, there's something you both should know.

Say it quickly.

There are traitors to Britain who...

No, keep off.

You fiend, you devil.

Now I know you. Helen, you must listen. Don't come near me.

That leap. Only one man, besides myself, knows its secret. And I think I know

what he's making for.

Oh, Mr. Ricker, thank heaven you've come. Follow him. Don't let him escape.

Escape? What happened?

Murder.

His father.

Another victim.

By God, it's the last.

Miss Sedgefield, you break the news to Miss Radin.

Tell her you're going down to the Tapard Inn to send Toby up here to take charge.

But you remain there till I join you.

Poor Rose.

Come on, men. We've got to get him this time.

from hell.

You'll kill no more.

You fool.

You blind, doubting fool.

I was, but not now.

Helen's told me.

Listen to me, George Heeningham. I will not. You will.

Some spawn of Satan has been at work too long.

Murder has followed on murder.

Tonight, my father killed in cold blood.

A knife thrown by this monster.

And that, that you charge to me. Look in that chest.

Blind beggar? Yes, and another spring-heeled jack.

I've suspected this place from the blind beggar for some time.

A very convenient disguise.

Then it wasn't you.

No, someone who wished to impersonate me. Only one man could attempt that.

A man I thought dead.

Dead? Who?

Your chief.

Read those letters.

Chief?

His writing.

His French plans.

And his confederates. Your names there.

Go and put them back. They'll be safe there until I need them.

What can I do? Much.

Who is your chief?

I've never known. I must know.

Are you going to help?

Or are you still afraid, still in doubt? No, no, no. I can help.

He thinks I'm still in his power. He expects me tonight.

Tonight? Where? Quick. At the old mill ruins. The old mill ruins? We go there

together. Come on.

We dare not.

Dare not? You say that to me?

Come on. There's no time to be lost.

Toby ain't come yet.

Those ring.

The villain.

I'll... I'll... Go on.

You'll do what?

Take her in there.

And wait for me.

Did you warn Heningham to be here tonight?

Yes, I told him to come.

Wise man.

You know, I was beginning to doubt.

Even you, Squire.

We shall see.

to wait for him, I suppose.

Yes.

Pretty kid, too.

Get out.

Ah, my pretty niece.

I'll deal with you.

Friendly.

Now remember, do exactly what I've told you.

I understand.

And whatever happens, don't get scared.

I shan't be far away.

It's time Mr. Heaney was here.

It would be a pity if he disappointed us.

You feel that way too, don't you, Squire?

Welcome, Helium.

Squire was getting quite anxious about you.

Don't sit down.

I'd rather stand.

I see.

Many strange things have been happening recently.

You mean many murders?

They do not interest me.

They may interest Mr.

Ricker. Naturally.

It is my own affairs.

My French business.

Of course.

I'm glad you agree with me.

Because there's a vital piece of work waiting for you.

Why for me?

Because I have doubts. Of what?

Of your loyalty.

Then I can put an end to those doubts at once.

And what exactly do you mean by that?

That I refuse to obey you any longer.

I have finished.

I was expecting that.

You know what to do?

I had six.

Unfortunately, I lost one.

But five will do.

Now, Mr. George Helium, I'm going to give you five chances.

And after each, I shall ask you if you wish to change your mind.

Very well, then.

One.

Well?

Then two.

Have you changed your mind yet?

Then three.

Now will you answer to hell with your...

Then fall.

Raiden. Yes, Squire. Jack Raiden. Stand still, Philip Raiden. I never miss my

mark.

Get over there. Quick.

And you.

Squire Sedgefield.

I'll leave others to judge you.

With my uncle, presumed dead, but at this moment very much alive, I will

settle. Not yet, nephew.

We shall see.

Even if that is Rickers.

Your game is up.

Don't stir an inch, or I'll fire.

I've got you, Raymond. Hold him.

There's no room in there.

Now, nobody leaves that place.

Bring a light, someone!

Hey, mister,

there's a woman lying in there, bound and gagged. What, another victim? The

rest of you, follow me. But you hang on to him like grim death.

Sorry, George.

Best I could do.

He's alive, all right.

Look after him.

Yes, sir.

Where's Red?

Somebody hit me.

Well, get after him and search the woods. You can't look up far.

You'll never find him. He knows the woods too well. The inhuman devil, and

we've got him red-handed.

There's another victim of his in there now. His own sister, Rose.

Rose?

Rose?

Touch

and

go, Jack.

Yeah.

Let's have a breather for the moment.

First of all, get these things off.

They're useless in a scrap.

Where's that fool, Jake?

He must have lost his way.

Awesome, madame.

Lucky day for me.

Only just a graceful touch and go for all of us, eh, chief?

Quiet, fool.

Even the walls have ears.

Look after her while I get a seat.

And that, Mr. Rickers, is the true story.

You say the man is Radon's uncle, but it's fantastic.

It's unbelievable.

First that century, and then Alice Maitland and many others, and now

tonight his own brother.

And Rose here.

If you hadn't been in time.

Yes, that's true. But why?

To make it all appear the work of Jack Radon, by pretending to be Spring-Heeled

Jack.

That's incredible.

But what was the purpose of it all?

So that Jack should tread the gallows.

Come with me to the tabard. It's one of his hideouts.

I'll show you proofs. We may even catch the monster.

And Helen's still there.

Then I daren't waste another minute.

I feel better now. I'll come with you.

The fools are going.

Quiet just a little longer.

The game's not over yet.

Let me in. It's me.

Turn that hand back.

You blundering fool. Where have you been? I got lost. And they're up there.

They've all gone. We know that.

Anything else? Yes.

They've lost Raiden.

Escaped. But they haven't reckoned with me.

I'll get Raiden yet.

I've a bait to hook him, Squire. Your daughter, Helen.

You swine!

Get out!

Find Helen Sedgefield.

Bring her here, no matter how, but bring her. Get out.

So, you've ratted at last, have you?

I've been expecting this.

Shall I settle with you now?

Did you hear that?

It's them.

Raiden and the other fellow.

Let's get back quick.

No sign of anybody yet.

They seem to have gone.

Come on, we'll search the place.

We'll find some queer things here.

They're coming back. Who?

Raiden and the other bloke.

The fates again.

Now I'll show them how Philip Readen exacts his revenge to the last drop.

Come with me.

To the pit!

I think you have sufficient proof there, Mr. Rickers. I have.

But one thing is certain.

Jack Raden's a free man.

They'll never court-martial him for mere duel when this is known.

But as for you, I'm afraid these papers are more than serious.

I'll stand up to whatever I deserve.

But let's get Philip Raden. I swear he's still in the old mill ruin somewhere. He

knows every corner of it. And he won't risk the forest tonight.

Sound advice, Eningham.

There's still a chance.

Come on, to the old mill, quickly.

Hurry up.

That's good enough.

Get that ladder up, and then get out.

Hurry! Hurry!

Are you deaf as well as dumb?

I'm a difficult man to cross the light. Get out of here!

Get out!

Get out!

This pit is my own invention.

The walls close together, and they'll crush you to pulp.

Far more exciting to watch than the gallows or the guillotine.

Death will be slow, very slow, but sure, sure as the

raiden curse.

As a boy, I taught you the secret of the high leap, but not with an iron ball on

your ankles. You see, I thought...

of everything.

And now to settle my account with that rat, Sedgefield.

A pleasant journey to you.

Now go down to hell and tell them I sent you.

Now say your prayer.

Oh, I should love to hear them.

Now, now, said she knew.

The

walls

are moving.

Don't look at them.

You've got to act quick and think quickly. You need to get your hands

free.

I think so.

The rope seems rotten.

Now, Squire Sedgefield, this is for you.

I think I've got a knife jack. Splendid!

It's no good for that chain.

Never mind. It's just an old padlock.

My pistol!

They've left my pistol.

She's loaded. Turn away. Find the rickshaw.

No. No, straight up.

Nothing to cling to. You can't be done. Can't you jump in, Jane?

Impossible. There's no space to leap.

Rage! Sentry!

Another one.

Rage!

Try this!

If it'll take my weight, Dennis, it'll take yours.

Yeah, you're down.

God,

what's that?

Quest for the brain.

Horrible death, but he deserved it.

He killed Squire Sedgefield before he died.

Now, Mr. Bow Street Runner, my job is done.

I'm willing to accompany you.

Captain Radin, after your fine work on this case, my advice to you is to return

to barracks immediately.

And King's regulations?

I have little doubt that His Majesty, knowing all the facts, will grant you a

pardon for breaking one of his regulations.