Original subtitles

(DOOR CLOSING)

Oh, Darling.

I have wonderful news.

The house we have been looking for, I've found it!

With a mooring for the yacht. The garage, the private beach.

The house of our dreams, look at it.

Isn't it heavenly?

Beautiful.

Darling what's the matter with you?

Michelle...

I have some news too.

What is it?

- John, tell me. - Hester isn't going to die.

What?

But the doctor said--

I know, I know. but that's before they started the new treatment.

Now it seems certain that she'll live.

I cant believe it.

Its true, and that isn't all.

The specialist said that there's no reason why in a few months

she shouldn't be leading a full and normal life.

That means the end for us.

No, Michelle, never. I couldn't live without you.

- But what can we do John? - I could get a divorce.

- How could we live? - I could get a job?

I said live, not exist.

I know what poverty can do to people in love.

It destroys them.

I've been through that once and I don't want it to happen again.

Michelle.

Oh, John, before you tell me I was so happy.

I was building such wonderful dreams for us.

And they all seemed to be coming true

and we had so little time to wait.

John, tell me it is not true. Tell me the doctors are wrong.

Tell me she's going to die. She has to die!

Maybe that's a solution?

Accidents can always happen.

You must be out of your mind?

I don't know, I don't know. I only know one thing.

I want to be happy now, John.

I won't let her interfere. I'm tired of waiting and waiting.

I want it now, now!

And I don't only want you. I want the life you promised me.

Michelle.

And if I don't get it, it is finished between us.

Even if I agreed it would be hopeless. I'm the obvious suspect.

Can't you see the papers? Wealthy victims widower inherits fortune.

- But we could work out an alibi. - How?

Who could I get to swear that I was with them when it happened?

It's not possible.

If you love me as much as I love you, you will find a way.

You know I love you, Michelle.

Then if we could find a way, would you do it?

Would you?

(BACKGROUND SUSPENSEFUL MUSIC)

(LIVELY MUSIC)

- Wouldn't work. - Why not?

Quite simply, because a model on a pond is one

thing and a vessel out at sea is quite another.

You'd need an aerial as high as a house to start off with.

- But surely we-- - Wait a minute.

I think you've given me an idea that might work.

What is it?

Oh no there would be far to many other difficulties.

What are they?

Well passport to start with. Where can I get hold of a false passport?

What about the old one of your brothers?

That will be out of date by now. He died years ago.

So what? It's easy to get it renewed.

But the photograph I don't even look like him. He had a beard!

But you would with a beard.

Michelle, what are we doing?

We've got to. We've got to.

But I've got to kill her.

Mr Marsden?

Now you are alright for another five years.

Now sign.

Charles Foster.

Doesn't look very good.

It doesn't matter.

They never look at them very closely at the cross channel boats.

- What about? - I've made the arrangements.

I'm going to see about it tomorrow.

(CITY TRAFFIC) (FOOTSTEPS)

For you, and for you! Thank you.

- Goodbye. - Goodbye.

What can I do for you, sir?

I wonder if you can help me?

I've just moved into this district and I haven't yet

found any permanent digs.

We can look after any mail for you, sir.

There's a regular scale of charges.

Well that's very good of you.

The most important thing is a parcel I'm expecting.

Should arrive anytime this week.

Well, if you care to give the sender this address,

I'll see that it's taken care of.

Now what's the name sir?

- Foster, Charles Foster. - Charles Foster.

I got them look. Darling pour me a drink, please.

I think I got the boat too, look.

Where did you get it?

Luckily they take the French yachting papers at the club.

Is this going to be fast enough? It looks very small.

Oh, yes, they do over twenty.

When are you going to get it?

Tomorrow. I'm taking a day trip to Boulogne

and then taking a taxi to Le Havre.

Bon voyage.

(BOAT HORN)

(HAMMERING SOUND]

(FRENCH MAN SPEAKING)

The packet boat leaves at twelve.

Twelve. Lets see.

Yes, high water on Saturday is at 8.30.

That means I must get under way from Shoreham about 9 o'clock.

The nurse puts her to bed at 9.30, doesn't she?

- Ah huh. - Give me the Radio Times.

Lets see, need the yacht here.

Saturday, oh, here we are.

9.30, The Knowles Family.

Ah I thought so. Nurse and cook never miss that.

Well that's one of the things I want to talk to you about.

How can we be sure they will be looking?

I'm going to make very sure. I'm seeing to it tonight.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Well, this is a something new, bringing my breakfast to me.

What are you up to?

I thought it would please you?

If you wanted to please me why didn't you stay last night?

Because I had to go down to the yacht.

Is that wretched thing going to be laid up?

That's what I wanted to talk to you about.

Ah, I thought there was something.

Well, for once, you're right, there is.

I want to test her engines before I lay her up.

And I thought of taking her over to Le Havre this weekend.

Leaving on Saturday.

Anything to get away from me I suppose.

Now, Hester, you know that's not true.

Anyway, it's mainly for your benefit.

As soon as you are well I want to take you out

for a holiday in her to the Mediterranean.

And who are you taking to Le Havre?

No one. Except Charles Clarke as crew.

How do you know he's free?

Well he is. As a matter of fact, I am just going to telephone him.

Hello, Charles? John Marsden here.

Look, the trip to Le Havre. It's Sunday.

Good. No only you and me.

Well, as I explained, it's really more

of an engine trial than anything else.

I plan to leave Shoreham about,

well, just after high water on Sunday evening.

That's it. Meet me on board about 8 o'clock.

Right, see you on Sunday. Goodbye, Charles.

(SINISTER MUSIC)

Well, it doesn't look like your friend

is going to turn up Mr. Marsden, does it?

No it doesn't, does it?

I cant be much longer either.

Otherwise, I shall miss the tide and the locked gates at Le Havre.

How's he coming down?

Train, train from London.

Oh, well, he's had it now. There isn't another one for an hour yet.

Well, I think I shall shove off on my own.

On your own?

Well, why not? It's a fine night.

Well, that would be a very unwise thing to do.

You might fall asleep at the wheel.

I don't think that's likely.

Now, look, I've got a much better idea than that.

Why not let old Sam lend you a hand?

He'd love the trip, he's just on the quay, I'll go and ask him.

No. Well, thanks just the same but I'll be alright.

I tell you what you can do though.

If you see my friend you might tell him what's happened,

and ask him to go across on the packet and meet me in Le Havre.

Certainly I will. Oh, by the way I've go to ask you this.

How much money are you taking with you?

Ah, 10 pounds. I don't expect to be there for more than two days.

- OK. - Well, I think I shall start up.

Will you cast off for me?

Certainly yes, just give me a shout when you are ready.

(ENGINE NOISE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Cheerio! Have a good trip.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC CONTINUES)

Now, let me make these pillows a little more comfortable for you.

I wish you wouldn't fuss so. You shake the bed.

No I don't want to take it off. I'll keep it on.

You'll only get to hot, you know. Then you will want to take it off.

Well if I do. I'll ring the bell.

Here give me my sleeping pill.

Well you needn't look like that.

I know you're dying to get back to your wretched TV.

What's on tonight?

It's the Knowles family at 9.30.

Hmm, you like that rubbish?

Yes, I think it's quite amusing.

When did my husband leave the house?

About two hours ago, he should be well out to sea by now.

Well, I hope it keeps fine for him.

Eugh! Here take it. Now clear out.

Goodnight, Mrs Marsden.

(ENGINE NOISE)

(CAR ENGINE NOISE)

(LAUGHTER AND TELEVISION NOISE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(SCREAMING)

(LAUGHTER AND TELEVISION NOISE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Quick switch off, commercial.

Eh, that was good wasn't it.

Its just the kind of play that I like.

Do you feel like a cup of tea, love?

I certainly should. I'll just nip along and see how she's getting on.

Oh, you'll work yourself to death running about like you do.

Sit down and have your tea. Nothing can happen to her.

Shan't be a minute.

They all think they are Florence Nightingale!

(CAT MEOWS)

(PHONE RINGS)

CID.

What address?

We'll be round right away.

Don't touch anything until we arrive.

There's been a murder at Glyndbourne Road.

You are sure you didn't disturb anything

when you came in and discovered the body?

Nothing. As soon as I saw she was dead and

there was nothing I could do, I phoned you.

What times her husband due in?

I think Mrs. Marsden is expecting

a call from Le Havre about 10 tomorrow.

Le Havre, hmm.

I had better contact the French police to

inform him what has happened when he arrives.

What a terrible shock for him. Poor man, I don't know what he'll do.

He'll never forgive himself for going away like this.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

What did you say?

Will you come alongside the tug please?

Very well.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

- You are Mr. Marsden? - Yes.

- Can we go to your cabin? - Course, come aboard.

Here we are.

Now, what can I do for you?

I have received instructions from the English police.

Go on.

I am afraid I have terrible news for you, Monsieur.

You must prepare yourself for a shock.

What do you mean?

Your wife is dead, Monsieur.

She was murdered last night.

This can't be true. My wife's an invalid. Who'd want to murder her?

It must be a mistake.

There is no mistake, Monsieur.

It would seem there was a burglary and

the thief was surprised by your wife.

And he killed her.

You have my deepest sympathy, Monsieur.

Forgive me, it's been a bit of a shock.

I must go back at once.

Can you arrange for somebody to look after the yacht until I get back.

I've no one else on board.

Oh, you came over single handed.

Yes, I didn't intend to but the friend

who was coming with me didn't turn up.

Well, you can leave her here.

I can arrange for her to be towed to the yacht basin

and a watchman put in charge of her.

Thank you. You're very kind.

Not at all. Au revoir, Monsieur.

Oh, just a minute.

- Can you smell gas? - Gas?

Yes we carry cylinders of gas on board for the cooking.

- Oh, butane gas? - Mm.

No, I cant smell it.

I wonder if you'd mind coming round the ship to check up for me?

Its one thing I'm terrified about is a gas explosion on board.

- Do you mind? - Certainly, if you wish.

It's a heavy gas, keeps low on the ground. Difficult to detect it.

What did they say?

Person or persons unknown, what did you expect?

Nothing else they could say.

But they didn't give you any--

The coroner extended to me the sympathy of the court.

But you didn't get any idea of what they are doing? The police I mean.

Nothing.

Do you think they will have seen you coming round here?

Seen me? Why? Well, the hall porter I suppose.

Well, that's one to many.

You must not come here anymore, this is the last time.

You've got to stay away.

Don't, not now. Relax.

Darling, how can I?

Look if the Police find out about me, we are lost.

I'm prepared to take that risk. I need you more than ever now.

Oh, John, please. All we got to do is to sit tight

until the will is proved, then we can go.

I think you care more about that damn money than you do about me.

You know why the money is important to me.

But I want it for us John. You know that, don't you?

Yes, I know.

(DOOR CLICKS OPEN)

You sent for me sir.

Well, Walker, the Brighton police have

called us in over this Marsden murder.

I'd like you to go down.

Swap figures with the local boys this time.

There not always such fools as you make them out to be.

Me sir, I don't know what you mean sir.

Yes, you know alright.

I had to use all my tact to smooth down the

Chief Constable on that last case you were on.

And this is supposed to be a perfectly clean cut case.

Murder for robbery. Let me know how you get on.

Yes, sir.

Tragic.

I understand she was a rich woman and her husband inherits.

That's quite right, but I'm afraid you're on the wrong track there.

Mr Marsden was on his yacht in the middle

of the channel when the murder took place.

Well, that was lucky for him, wasn't it?

Ah, Johnson, this is Inspector Walker of Scotland Yard.

- How do you do? - Good day.

Put him in the picture as far as you can

and give him any help he may require.

Good day Inspector. Come to me if you have any problems.

I certainly will, sir.

I have a list here of the people questioned.

PMs report...

and also the verbatim report of the coroners inquest.

These are the photographs taken at the scene of the crime.

And a list of the articles stolen.

Also the report of the fingerprint man.

Well, this seems very efficient. I'll take them with me if I may,

They should prove interesting reading.

I have a car nearby if you'd care to visit the scene of the crime.

Then I can introduce you to some of the members of the household.

No, I'd like to go through these first.

Has anything come in about the stolen property?

No, all the local dealers and pawnbrokers

have been circulated but so far without result.

Oh, this is Sergeant Adams, Detective Inspector Johnson.

Hello!

I've booked us rooms at the George, sir.

Oh, good. I'd like to go through these papers with

my Sergeant. Do you think we could use this room?

Certainly, you can get on with it.

Thank you.

- Do you know where this place is? - Yes sir.

I had a look around the outside while you

were having a chat to the local super.

It's a classy joint.

The woman's bedroom is on the groundfloor

with French windows opening onto a brick terrace.

Breaking in is as easy as getting out of a paper bag.

We'd better go round. I want to talk to the husband.

Perhaps I should say widower.

Oh, and there's a cook and a trained nurse

and a woman who comes in every day.

You'd better go back and see what you can get out of them

Yes, sir.

What about lunch?

- Mr. Marsden? - Yes.

My name's Walker, I'm from Scotland Yard.

- Come in. - Thank you.

Sit down, Mr. Walker.

Inspector Walker sir, CID.

I'm sorry to have to distress you but

I am sure you are as anxious to get the man as we are.

Naturally.

I still find the whole thing unbelievable.

It's the sort of thing you read about in the newspapers.

But when it happens to you, you just cant take it in.

Yes, I can quite understand that.

Your wife had been an invalid for some time, I understand?

Yes for three years. She caught some kind of

a bug in Egypt. She was partially paralysed.

But she was getting better. Making an unexpected recovery?

Yes, that's the terrible thing about it.

Only a few days ago they told me that in

a few months she would be completely cured.

And now this. Who could have done such a thing?

Why were the valuables not kept in the safe?

Nothing of particular value was stolen.

Just a few articles off her dressing table and out of the drawers.

Are you often away from the house at night?

Well, no, I didn't like to leave her alone more often than I could help.

Most evenings I used to read to her until she went to sleep.

And then if she did wake up, I could hear her call from my room.

That's what I hate about this.

If I hadn't taken the yacht on that

trip none of this could have happened.

When did you decide to make the trip?

Only on Monday.

And where is the yacht now?

Over in Le Havre. I took it across single handed.

The man who was supposed to be coming with me

mistook the dates on the telephone.

How many people knew that you were away

from the house on that particular night?

No idea. I didn't make any secret of it. Why should I?

Suppose the servants knew, customs man.

And I may have told some people at the yacht club.

I really don't remember.

Well, I can be sure to find you here if I need your help?

Yes.

Of course, after the funeral I shall have to go across to Le Havre

to bring the yacht back. But I'll let you know.

Do you think I could have a few words with the nurse?

Yes I'll call her.

Now on the day in question, the day of the murder,

did you notice anything unusual around the house?

I mean see anyone hanging around for instance?

Only the milkman, but he always hangs about when I'm here.

You observed nothing unusual?

Not a thing.

Unless you could call Mr. Marsden coming down to the kitchen unusual.

What do you mean?

He never normally comes down here, that's all.

That morning he did though.

What for?

To collect a parcel of groceries

cook had got ready for him to take on his trip.

Well there is nothing strange about that surely?

Not really. Bit strange him being on that trip though.

Don't you think?

- Why? - Bit of a coincidence like.

Now, if this was a movie I'd say he done it.

Well, it isn't. And you'd better be careful about

what you say about your employer my girl.

Unless you've any grounds for suspicion that is?

This is a terrible tragedy for Mr. Marsden.

He was devoted to his wife

Oh yeah!

Then how is it, one Saturday, when I was over in Shoreman

I see him on board his boat with another woman?

Well, anything wrong in that?

I suppose a man would say there wasn't

but a woman might see it different.

Anyway, I don't blame him after all those years with that old--

This lady... can you describe her?

Only saw her from a distance.

Proper slinky piece! One of those.

- Ever see her again? - No. Well, I cant be sure.

I did think I saw Mr. Marsden in a car with her one day.

Driving through Brighton that was.

The photograph showed that the room was in complete disorder.

Surely you and cook would have heard some sort of noise?

And the bell at the bedside, I'd have thought that the first

thing that Mrs. Marsden would have done would be to ring it.

Well the TV programme that cook and I

were watching was a very noisy one.

We wouldn't have heard anything from the bedroom

especially if we weren't listening for it.

But surely you would have heard the bell?

Oh, yes, we should have heard the bell but it didn't ring.

- You're sure of that? - Quite sure.

In your statement you said that you gave

a sleeping pill to Mrs. Marsden at 9.30.

You're certain of that?

Of course, she had one every night.

- Strange. - I beg your pardon?

How long have you been attending Mrs. Marsden?

I've been here for 6 months.

How do Mr. and Mrs. Marsden get on?

Well I can't pretend she was an easy person.

In fact, she was one of the most difficult patients I've ever had.

I've often wondered how Mr. Marsden stood it for so long.

I wouldn't have stayed myself if I hadn't been so sorry for him.

Yes, I see. I wonder if you would show me exactly where

you and cook were sitting when you're watching the television?

Yes certainly, if you will come with me I'll show you.

Thank you.

Well, thank you Miss Jones, that will be all for the moment.

Oh, is there going to be more later on? Goody!

There all like that nowadays. The cinema does it,

they all think they are Marilyn Monroes's!

So this is the room where you and cook watched

television on the night of the murder?

Yes, that's quite right, we were sitting here.

- And this set's in it usual place? - Yes, it always stands there.

Are these curtains drawn?

Yes I know that because there's a street lamp outside and

if they are not drawn the light falls right on the screen.

They were drawn tight?

Yes, if there's the smallest chink you get a light on the screen.

So it would be impossible for anyone to see in?

Quite impossible, you can see for yourself.

I see. There's just one other thing,

the bell beside Mrs. Marsden's bedside.

Your certain it couldn't have been rung?

Absolutely certain Inspector. It rings right there.

There's no chance of you not hearing it?

Absolutely none.

Well, that seems to be that. Well thank you nurse

I am sorry I have caused you so much trouble.

No trouble at all, Inspector.

So what have you found out?

Or is the girl so struck by your rugged

exterior that she could only giggle.

I did find out something, sir.

It rather seems that Mr. Marsden had a girlfriend.

Did he?

I'm starving, what about lunch? You can tell me all about it then.

I don't like this murder theory, sir.

The occupants of the house were watching television

which would explain why they didn't hear any noise but

the bell at the woman's bedside it only rang 6 feet away

from nurse and cook and yet they say they didn't hear it.

Either we must believe that they are

lying, or that the bell wasn't rung.

There can be only one reason why that bell wasn't rung.

And what would that be?

The woman knew who the intruder was.

Look sir, a young man marries a woman older than himself.

She's an invalid, she makes an unexpected recovery.

Within a week she's murdered and the husband inherits a fortune.

Well, of course, he's the obvious suspect but

he does appear to have a watertight alibi

and by all accounts he was a model husband.

Well, maybe he's not the blue eyed boy we imagined.

There's a girlfriend in the offing.

That's not a capital charge. Thank heavens.

I beg your pardon, sir?

Oh, nothing, nothing!

I take it you don't like his alibi?

No, I don't.

Then I suggest that you try to break it.

That's what I'd like to do.

Do you mind if I take a trip to Le Havre, sir?

I don't mind but if this trip of yours

turns out to be a wild goose chase

your expense account is going to come in

for some pretty severe criticism.

That's a chance that I'll have to take, sir.

(FRENCH MUSIC)

Come in, Inspector.

- Won't you sit down. - Thank you.

Where was Marsden's boat when you first saw it?

Entering the harbour.

It was already laying between the piers?

Oh, no, it was outside, coming up the channel between the buoys.

Is there any possibility that someone else bought the boat

in and Marsden boarded her later?

Impossible. He was on the bridge steering

the boat all the time I saw him.

Is there any chance that the man you met

wasn't Marsden but somebody impersonating him?

Take another look at that photograph.

There can be no doubt whatever, Inspector.

This is the man.

And your absolutely sure that there was no

one else on board when they bought her in?

Oh, I'm certain of it.

I went on board as soon as the boat came alongside

and then went all over it.

Why did you do that?

Mr. Marsden asked me to. He thought he smelt butane gas

gas and asked me to help him find the leak.

- Did you find the leak? - No.

I searched the boat from end to end but I could smell nothing.

And that's why I am certain there was no one else on board.

Maybe I'm barking up the wrong tree.

What is that?

Oh, it's an English expression, it means

that maybe I'm on the wrong track.

Before I go I'd like to see the yacht. Can I do that?

Oh, most certainly, I'll take you there myself.

Its quite near.

(FRENCH MUSIC)

It's strange that Marsden should have thought

there was a gas leak below.

This cylinder only connects to the galley.

This is the one that appears to go below.

And look its not even connected. The seals not broken.

Why should Marsden think that he smelt a leak unless...

Unless what, Inspector?

Unless he wanted to show you over the boat.

Why should he want to do that?

Only to prove he was alone on board.

These fishermen who complained that you nearly ran

them down, do you think I can have a word with them?

Oh, yes, that will not be difficult.

I can have them brought to my office.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says they were about 25km north of Cape de Le Havre.

And were about to put over their nets.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

When they see coming towards them at considerable speed, a motor yacht.

She had all her lights on although it was quite daylight,

And was heading for Le Havre.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says the yacht comes on straight at them.

So he fears a collision and shouts to his mate to go full speed astern.

But before he can start the motor the yacht is right on top of them.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

But by the grace of God misses them by about 2 metres.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says the yacht passed them and they

saw absolutely no one on the bridge.

So the man in charge must have been down below.

And just come up as the yacht passed them,

and turned the wheel in the wheel house

because they saw the wheel on the bridge turning.

What makes him so sure it was the Cruseeker?

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

Well he says there can be no doubt at all.

They saw the name Cruseeker on the stern.

Oh, well that's pretty conclusive.

Well thank him for coming would you.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

Well, thank you for all the trouble you've taken.

Oh, it's been no trouble at all, Inspector.

I hope that what you have found out has been to your satisfaction.

No I'm afraid it isn't.

Oh, I'm sorry. Are you returning to England then?

Yes I must get back to London at once. Which is the quickest way?

Well, there is no packet boat tonight you know.

In the winter season they only run every other day.

But is you care to go to Trouville you can fly direct to England.

Could you arrange that for me?

Yes, straight away.

(AIRCRAFT NOISE)

Hello. You alright?

Thank you, yes, I'm fine.

Not lonely with the whole plane to yourself?

You don't seem to be very busy.

No we never are this time of the season. Only got a couple more trips

I say your a detective, aren't you?

Yes. Don't you think you ought to go back and drive or whatever you do?

Oh that's alright sir. George has taken over.

George? Who's George?

Automatic pilot.

Oh, I see!

Look I'd feel very much safer if you went back.

Oh, very well, sir. Just as you like.

(AIRCRAFT NOISE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Look sir, let's assume for a moment that he had got an automatic pilot.

Now, my theory is this.

As soon as he got outside the harbour,

he adjusted the pilot, set the speed of the engines,

then he jumped overboard and swam ashore.

Now the girl was waiting for him on the beach with a car

They got into it. Then they drove to his house

he entered it, and then he murdered his wife.

Knowing perfectly well that he'd be undisturbed

by the cook and the nurse I suppose.

Now wait a moment sir.

He knew the routine of the household.

He knew that the cook and the nurse

would be watching television that time.

So after the murder he stages a robbery and

then leaves through the french windows.

Then he drives or is driven to Southampton where he picks

up the packet boat for Le Havre that leaves at midnight.

Go on.

The packet boat does 22 knots and should arrive at Le Havre at 6 am.

Now the murderer properly disguised walks ashore and picks

up a launch that he has in readiness and then goes to sea.

Now he knows exactly the speed of his own yacht, and exactly

the hour it should arrive at a certain position off the coast.

So, he waits for it, boards it. Scuttles the small launch

And then at the wheel of his own yacht he enters

Le Havre alone and with a watertight alibi.

Well, it sounds like absolute nonsense to me Walker.

And I'll give you two perfectly good reasons for saying so.

First of all, there's considerable

current or tidal stream in the channel.

Or so I've always been led to believe.

If you did put a yacht on course from Shoreham to Le Havre,

I don't believe it would ever fetch up there.

And another thing. The channel isn't the mid Atlantic, you know.

There is some other shipping in it.

Do you mean to tell me that this self piloted

yacht would get across without collision?

That naturally occurred to me to sir.

So I went to the Admiralty and I asked

for some information on the subject.

Will you excuse me for a moment sir.

Adams.

Now sir. There's Shoreham and here's Le Havre.

The course is due south.

It would take Marsden 11 to 12 hours to cross.

Leaving as he did at high water,

For the first 6 hours he would experience

the ebb tide which would take him that way.

For the second 6 hours he would meet the flood

tide which flows in the opposite direction.

So over a period of 12 hours the tides would cancel each other out.

Well that seems to dispose of my first objection.

Now this question of a collision.

Crossing as the yacht did from Shoreham to Le Havre

The amount of sea occupied by the other ships is extremely small.

By 0.005 or so I am told.

Its only when a boat closes the French coast and meets

the coastal traffic that this danger is likely to occur.

But by that time he was back on board.

Yes, well, Walker I'm prepared to go with you some of the way

At least as far of the possibility of the crime.

What do you propose to do now?

Well sir I'm going to find out if an

automatic pilot was fitted to that yacht.

If it was it is still there and if it isn't, where is it?

Well, good luck, let me know how you get on.

But I think you are wasting your time.

- Thank you, sir. - Come on, Adams.

What is it, Adams?

A list of the manufacturers of

automatic pilots in this country, sir.

Oh, good, let me see it.

Only 2 firms, sir, I've been on to them both.

First a complete blank.

Haven't sold any pilots to yachts in recent months.

But the second as you see here, sold three.

July 31st to yacht Rossimer owner Commander Campbell.

August 15th yacht Firebird.

You checked on this, of course.

Yes, sir. Both well known yachtsmen, no question of resale.

The pilots are installed on their boats at this moment.

What's this third pilot here, sold on

September 1st C. Foster 15 Lucas Street.

That's Chiswick, isn't it?

Yes sir. I asked the manufacturer about it. Rather curious sir.

Couldn't understand it over the phone.

Might be worth investigating.

At this point anythings worth investigating.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Now what can I do for you sir?

Mr. Charles Foster?

No, Sid's the name, Sid Smith.

Mr. Foster doesn't live here then?

I've lived here myself for about 30 years.

Wait a minute though. Foster, Charles Foster.

That name seems to ring a bell.

Yes, here it is. Mr C. Foster.

He's the gentleman who used this as an

accommodation address for a short time.

A very short time indeed. He had a parcel sent here.

A big one it was too. He collected it,

paid his dues and I've never seen him again.

Was this the man?

No this fellow had a big-- Who are you anyway?

A copper, eh?

What's wrong?

Well, anyway, as I was gonna say, this fellow

had a big black beard and wore glasses.

Did he leave a forwarding address?

No just collected the one parcel that's all.

I see. Well, thank you. Do you think I could have a box of matches?

Why, certainly, sir.

- Thank you. - Thank you.

- Good day, sir. - Good day.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

I am sorry to bother you but there are one or two details I wanted

to ask you about this man Foster who bought an auto pilot from you.

I'm afraid that's something I cant give you.

We've never met Mr. Foster nor even had any correspondence with him.

He rang us up one day last month.

Asked for details, did his buyer pilot, paid cash in advance

and gave us an address.

Thank you no, I use a pipe.

And that was quite satisfactory as far as you're concerned?

Well, actually no, we prefer to do the installation ourselves.

So it's not something just bought over a counter then?

By no means. Each instrument has to be adjusted to suit the

dimensions and particular characteristics

of each individual vessel.

What did you do in this case?

Oh, we explained this to Mr. Foster but he said we couldn't

possible do the installation as his vessel was abroad.

And if we didn't wish to sell him one of our pilots

the other firm would.

We didn't wish to miss the sale

so we agreed, if he'd send us the details we'd make

adjustments here but we couldn't give our usual guarantee.

What were the details?

Length, beam, speed, rudder area, voltage of electric supply,

diameter of wheel shaft, number of turns from helm to helm, each way.

Did you get these particulars?

Yes he telephoned them to us.

Do you think I could see them?

Certainly.

Bring in the Foster file, please.

May I ask where all this is leading to?

I'm afraid not, it's just a theory of mine at the moment.

Involving one of our instruments?

- Possibly. - Sounds most mysterious.

And will we be let into the secret if your theory is right?

Oh, certainly you will.

Ah, thank you. Here's the Foster file.

Do you think I could keep these?

Certainly.

What's the measurement of shaft wanted for?

Haven't you seen one of our instruments?

No, I'm afraid I haven't.

I was going to ask you to explain it to me.

Well, come this way we have a working model in here.

Switch on the machine.

Tighten up the clutch.

Then start the boat.

Push it off course would you.

You see. Automatically comes back on course.

Yes, that's very clever.

Could it go wrong?

Oh, very rarely. We've had practically no

trouble at all with any of our installations.

I see now why you would want the measurements of the steering shaft.

It is connected with the chain wheel.

Exactly. So the wheel is machined by us to fit each individual shaft.

It's secured here by a screw. Clamp's very tight.

I see. Well seems to cover everything,

Oh, there is just one point.

How did he pay for it?

A parcel of notes arrived. 250 one pound notes.

- No letter? - Just a parcel of notes.

I see. Well, thank you very much indeed for your help.

- Goodbye Mr. Ewels - Goodbye, Inspector.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Mr. Marsden?

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

- Hello, Inspector. - Hello, Mr. Marsden.

I'm sorry I wasn't here to greet you.

Any further news?

No, I'm afraid not.

At least very little as yet.

How did you know I was down here?

Oh, I telephoned your home. There were one or two

routine questions that I wanted to ask you.

They told me you'd been to Le Havre. Did you have a nice trip?

Yes.

She's a nice boat, isn't she?

Yes I put a lot of work into her.

Wont you come down below, Inspector?

Thank you.

- Have a drink, Inspector? - Thank you, yes.

- Scotch? - Fine.

Now, what was it you wanted to tell me?

One or two things puzzle me. The bell at your wife's bedside.

Why didn't she ring it?

Have you any ideas about that?

Well, I don't suppose she had time.

Those sleeping pills were very strong.

But the post mortem proves that

she didn't take a pill that night.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Its quite deceiving from outside, she's quite a big boat isn't she.

- Is she easy to handle? - Very.

But surely it must have been quite a strain taking her across the

channel in what was it 11 hours without a break at the wheel.

You get used to it.

Did you have to get used to it Mr. Marsden?

I don't understand you?

Have you ever thought about using an automatic pilot?

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

I don't trust him Michelle.

He seems full of sympathy but whenever he looks at me I

feel that he sees murderer written all over my face.

Has he ever said something that would

make you think he would suspect you?

Well, he did today.

He asked me if I've ever thought of using an automatic pilot.

Oh, John, he does suspect you.

Maybe he does but he still can't prove it.

Even if he knows that I had a pilot

Even if he knows exactly how I did it,

he's still a million miles from proving it.

If the yacht didn't exist, then he never could prove it.

Are you suggesting you take her out and sink her?

No, blow her up.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Sorry to keep you waiting Mr. Walker.

Not at all. I am sorry to bother you.

But there is just one point I'd like to clear up.

Only to glad to assist. I must say I'm most curious.

Going to have to restrain my curiosity?

I'm afraid so. It looks as if one of your machines

has been used to provide the perfect alibi.

Alibi? I don't see how. Not a bad advertisement for us!

Have to take some space in the housebreakers gazette!

I'd like to compare this with the steering motor in your other room.

Certainly.

Apply for a search warrant for Marsden's yacht, will you?

He's been trying to get hold of you all morning, sir.

Wants you to ring him. Its urgent.

Get him.

Hello, Jimmy, give me that Shoreham number again, will you?

Hello. Here.

Hello. Walker here.

Oh, good morning, Mr. Marsden.

Yes, yes, sure--

I see.

Why on earth didn't you tell me that before?

Alright, no, no, no, that will suit me.

Yes, on your boat at 4.

That's fine. Inspector, I may be just a little bit late.

Well, if I am, will you go on board and make yourself at home?

You'll find plenty of drink down in the saloon.

Yes help yourself.

- Thank you I will. - Good.

Good, see you later.

You can cancel that search warrant.

Doesn't look as if I am going to need it.

(HEAVY MACHINERY NOISE)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

(HEAVY MACHINERY NOISE)

Are you down there, Inspector?

Yes. I'd just about given you up.

Sorry I'm so late, I had a little trouble with my car.

Did you find everything you want?

Thank you, yes I helped myself.

Now what was it you wanted to tell me?

Well, I didn't say anything about this before because

at the time it didn't seem important.

But what?

(DRAMATIC MUSIC IN BACKGROUND)

Two days before my wife was--

- Yes, go on. - Before she was... she was killed--

Have you got a match? This box is empty.

Yes, they are up in the wheel house.

Shall we go up there, it's a bit stuffy in here anyway.

Yes, certainly, if you wish.

John, why didn't you call me? I've been so worried.

You have.

Well, what happened? Did you destroy your yacht?

- It didn't work - What do you mean?

Just what I say. I filled it up with butane gas and then

invited Inspector Walker to come down and blow it up for me.

What?

He's always been careless with matches but today

he hadn't any matches to be careless with.

John, look at me. Did you mean to kill him?

Well why not. The scent and the bloodhound in one.

Why are you looking at me like that?

I don't know you.

No, don't come near me.

You coldly and callously planned to kill this man.

But you must be insane.

That's funny coming from you.

Oh, no, the other was different.

I cant stand it anymore.

First it's Alice and now this. I've had enough, I'm getting out.

Oh, no, you're not.

Oh, John, what is happening to us.

Be patient, darling.

As soon as the will's proved we can go abroad

and leave all this behind us.

Can we ever leave it behind us John? Can we?

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

- Hello, Sir. - Anything new?

Nothing this end I'm afraid?

Mmm, there isn't, is there? I'm stuck, Adams.

Why did Marsden ask me to go down there?

All this nonsense about the man prowling around at night.

I'm sure he's lying.

He remembered much too clearly how the man was dressed.

Oh, look, here's the description that he gave me.

You'd better circulate it and give it to the press.

Yes, sir.

If Marsden wants to think that we are

following up his story then let him.

Did you get a look at the boat? Any sign of the auto pilot?

Oh, there is no doubt that he had one.

I found the mark of the set screw on the steering column.

- Everything fits except... - The pilot?

(SIGHS) Yes.

I wonder what he did with that?

At the bottom of the channel with the

jewels that he took from his wife

and the boat that brought him from Le Havre to the yacht.

The motor boat. That's it.

Find the man in France who sold or hired the boat to him

and we are beginning to get somewhere.

You see, there are 8 or 9 boatyards in Le Havre

which could supply boats of the kind you describe.

That should be enough relaxation for one day.

Oh, but there are many more in the vicinity!

I hope not, I hate boats.

Oh, but there is no need for us to visit them.

I can easily telephone them.

Oh, that's a very good idea but I

didn't want to cause you any trouble.

I assure you, Inspector, it's no trouble at all.

This way, Inspector. It's not very clean, I am afraid.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

It was a fast motorboat about 4 or 5 metres long

and worked by an outboard motor.

Do you speak English?

- Of course, just a little. - Good!

How fast would it go?

In fine weather with only one passenger

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

That would be about 20km an hour.

Is this the man you sold the boat to?

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

No he says he had a beard.

How did he pay for it?

He paid 150,000 Francs in 10,000 Franc notes.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

Well the man paid in notes.

Ordered the boat to be got ready and filled with petrol

and said he would phone him from England to tell

him the exact day and time he would collect.

And you yourself handed the boat over to the man?

Yes, about a week later.

Did he seem to be in a hurry?

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He said he had a rendezvous at Deauville.

I never saw him again.

Do you think you could make me a little sketch of the boat?

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

Thank you.

I agree with everything you said but still its all circumstantial.

Not one of your witnesses will come forward to swear to an identity.

I admit it's all possible but its highly ingenious.

A man of such ingenuity who had

worked out the murder in such detail.

He wouldn't of taken that one big risk.

What risk?

The risk of being seen by the cook or the nurse.

Would he let the whole success or failure of this

most brilliant scheme hang on such a thread?

The set might have broken, the transmission itself even.

There are 1000 reasons for one or both of them leaving the room.

But everything falls into place sir.

The marks on the autopilot.

The man with the accommodation address.

And then the man with the similar description who

bought the boat, and then the boat vanishing.

And the friend who was going to go with him turning up a day late.

It all fits. Put Marsden in the dock and he is bound to crack.

No, I dare not do it. I cant risk another failure.

Did Adams turn up anything further in Brighton?

I don't know sir he's still down there.

You can take me to the pictures tonight.

What's on?

Well, it's an old picture but jolly good. Double indemnity.

Edward G Robinson. A detective!

Do you good. You might learn something!

If Edward G Robinson was here, he'd have found the murderer long ago!

Yeah, baby, I guess you're right!

Pick me up the same place?

OK.

Well drink your tea and push off.

I've got to wash the paint in here before cook gets back.

Hey, what's that cat doing?

Mm?

Sit in that chair. Watch the television and don't move.

What you talking about? Why?

Never you mind. You do as I tell you.

Well, what is all this?

A cat? What on earth do you mean a cat?

Yes, I know it sounds absurd. You what?

Well I can't imagine sir unless someone

mixed the putty with fish oil.

Yes, and another thing, the hole was drilled from the inside.

Yes, you can see the splinters on the outside of

the window frame where the drill came through.

Splendid news. Look tell the maid to keep her

mouth shut and come back here right away.

There's a call from Le Havre on your other line, sir.

Hello, Walker here.

We've had a great piece of luck, Inspector.

The motor boat we were looking for was hauled up last night.

In the net of a trawler about 10 miles out at sea.

Are you sure?

Oh there's no doubt whatever, Inspector.

Monsieur Pinot himself has identified it

as the boat he sold to the Englishman.

- He's with me here now. - Where's the boat now?

Hold on.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says its in his boat yard.

Oh, I can not write, I am too nervous.

Supposing we cannot get these two cabins?

Now, Michelle everything's going according to plan.

We've got the money and the shipping company have

promised to ring back this evening about the cabins.

- Now relax. - It's easy to say.

(PHONE RINGING)

That's probably them now.

Hello. Yes?

Hello.

Yes. You have.

What ship?

I see, that's very kind of you, thank you very much.

They're sending the tickets round tonight.

It's the Cardinia.

- When are we sailing - Tomorrow.

It's not good enough Walker.

There was no proof that he drilled that hole.

Or even if he did the reason why.

I know that it's all wonderfully circumstantial but there's no proof.

But the boat, sir?

There's no definite tie up between him and the boat.

(PHONE RINGS)

Hello, yes. It's for you Walker.

Thank you.

Hello, Walker here.

No, no, that's alright.

I see.

Yes thank you for ringing. Goodbye.

- That was him. - Marsden?

Yes, he rang to tell me he was going abroad for a while and

he was sailing on the Cardinia tomorrow for the West Indies.

That he raised a loan in expectation of the will.

You'll stop him of course, sir?

I can't. I've no reason to.

But surely you can hold him on suspicion?

Suspicion? Suspicion of what?

Look here, Walker, supposing I come out into the open

and charge him with murder and he gets away with it.

What do you suppose is going to happen to us?

Find me one shred of definite evidence that he was in the house.

Or a definite tie up between this boat and Marsden's yacht.

And you shall have your warrant.

Very well. I'm leaving for Le Havre immediately.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says the ship must have been scuttled because

it was pushed in from the inside.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

He says the rope was used to secure the boat alongside another vessel.

Then they sank the boat and as she sank they cut the rope.

And the rope in any case, it was not on the ship when I sold her.

And it's not French look.

Three strands, and that blue thread inside.

British Navy.

Could you buy this sort of rope in France?

No.

This is it!

This is the link. The rogues yarn.

Look cut off a bit of that rope for me will you.

I must telephone London at once.

(FRENCH SPEAKING)

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

You look there.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Where do they keep spare ropes on a boat like this?

With a large store aft. Looks like the bosun's store.

- Its padlocked. - Break it open.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

I think I've got it.

This is it.

Get to shore as quick as you can and telephone the Commissioner.

Go on we haven't got much time.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

Well, I am quite certain that these two

samples are cut from the same kind of rope.

- Can you swear to that? - Of course.

Comparison of the fibres of the ropes

yarn leave can be no doubt whatsoever.

Now are you satisfied, sir?

Oh, the gangway is still down. Why haven't we sailed?

I don't know, we are probably waiting for the mail or something.

We should have sailed half an hour ago. Something is wrong.

John, I am frightened.

Michelle, you are imagining things. They can't stop us now.

But supposing Walker has found out something else.

And asked them to stop the ship?

Walker's probably sitting in his office at

this very moment, and enjoying a quiet pipe.

(SHIPS HORN)

There, what did I tell you?

Oh, John. We are safe!

We are safe.

(KNOCK AT DOOR]

- Who is it? - Chief purser, sir.

Come in.

John Marsden, I have a warrant for your arrest

for the murder of your wife on October 2nd.

I must ask you to come with me.

(DRAMATIC MUSIC)

No, no!

(CRIES)

(CLOSING DRAMATIC MUSIC)