Original subtitles

[music]

[music]

Heat. Heat.

[music]

Heat up

[music]

[music]

[music]

here.

[music] Heat.

[music]

Heat.

[music]

Bill,

Bill,

darling, telephone.

It's probably those confounded electric

light people again. I'll tell them I

thought of a wizard in for a short

story. I'd hope to get it published next

month. Hello. Yes, this is Mrs.

Bennington's sled. It's mine too in a

way. Who? Oh. Oh, good morning. Uh, what

can we do for you? Stevie, Stevie,

quick.

I'm afraid she's booked up every day

this week. Yes. Not a day free.

Yes, she does.

When? Thursday week. Oh, well, if you'll

hold on, I'll look at her engagement

book.

What is it?

Export Fashion Fair Company.

Oh, good. Bill, what do they want?

Well, they want you to model that gown

that they advertised in last month's

thingy at the fashion fair gala on

Thursday week.

Yes, she seems to be free that evening.

How much? Five guineies.

10 gies. Another penny less. Oh, and

expenses, too. Yes, yes, yes.

You'll send the cloak and gown on the

deck. Thank you very much. Good day to

you all. I thought I did that rather

well.

10 Guineas is wonderful, darling.

Can we eat out tonight?

Save your washing house, please.

Yes, of course. Yeah, sure.

Heat. [music]

[music]

[music]

[music]

Heat.

Yep. Atlantic Air. Who?

Name of Olive.

Say, you're only the seventh guy that's

rung me in the last hour. We can't take

any more reservations for England for a

month.

Can't you hear? I said a month.

Listen, you park-faced rat. I want a

reservation on the next plane that

leaves the ground.

Now, see here, I don't take that line of

talk from anybody.

What did you say?

Lou Gatsman.

Yeah, Gatsman.

I'm a great pal. We're just buddies.

You ought to see us together. [music]

When I take a dislike to a guy on a I

can't get something I want, Lou takes a

dislike to him, too. And when Lou takes

a dislike to a guy, something mostly

happens to him.

Oh, sure, Mr. Oliver. Sure. I'll fix it

for you. You'll have a seat on the plane

leaving on Monday. Yes, sir. You'll find

everything in order. Thanks a lot.

Goodbye.

Excuse me.

Excuse me. Do you have a telephone

directory?

Telephone directory? Yes, sir. Which

one?

Which one? You have mint flavored?

What letter does the name begin with,

sir?

C for caring.

Richard.

Richard. Carling. Telephone number.

I don't want the telephone number. I

want the address.

The address is

[music]

of course I expect you and I hope our

acquaintance [music] will be extended

for such poor hospitality as I can offer

is waiting and tonight

as you say who knows

up to now you seem to existed mainly in

telephone conversation.

Ah, it's half an hour. Good. I've been

waiting.

No, not goodbye or revoir.

[bell]

Ah, it's you at last curtain. Come in. I

expected your attend. It's now past 11.

I was late leaving Lester.

Well, I'm afraid I can only give you a

few moments. You see, I expect someone

for supper.

Well, I had to see you tonight,

otherwise the whole thing would have

fallen through.

Well, did you get to agreement?

Yes, and it must be back in Leicester by

12 tomorrow or the deal's off. You told

me on the telephone you had trouble at a

meeting. Plenty, but at one time I

thought it would all break down. One of

them suddenly became very difficult.

Why? I don't know. He was quite friendly

at first. It was when I mentioned your

name as my partner, he changed

completely.

Oh, and what was his name?

Venner. Vinner. Dr. Venner. Oh, yes. Dr.

Vinner. I remember. He used to run an

asylum in London.

Don't be alarmed. I wasn't a patient.

What did he say?

Oh, don't hesitate. It wasn't very

pleasant. It was in connection with a

man named Houston.

Houston?

Oh, yes. Hu?

An unfortunate fellow I took some

interest in. I gathered there.

Yes. He was a builder who did some work

for me here and he had some sort of a

breakdown.

And you took him to Benner?

Yes. Poor fellow. is quite incurable.

[music]

Apparently, he was not.

What do you mean?

He's out. Out.

So, this Dr. Benner told me, he said,

"You might be interested to know."

Well, let's get back to business.

Did he say where was

No.

Aren't you going to read it through?

Good heavens, no. I employ a solicitor

to do that sort of thing.

But there isn't time.

Oh, yes, there is. I've arranged it

after your telephone from Leicester.

He'll see you tonight in his private

house as a special favor.

But look here, I've driven a long way

and I'm dead tired.

It's only in Finchley, 143 Selby Road.

Horrib's the name.

I shall have to start back for Leicester

at 9:00 in the morning.

Oh, that's all right. You can be here by

8 with a note from Horabin. Okaying the

agreement, and I'll sign it.

As a matter of fact,

and you can get away.

I was hoping you could put me up

tonight. One or two bits of business we

ought to talk over and my wife's not

expecting me.

I'm afraid I shan have time for business

tonight. If you're so tired, why don't

you stay at the Turkish? That would

fresh you up for your drive to Nester

tomorrow. There's one other thing.

What is it?

I've got to find £500 right away. I

wondered if you'd advanced me on account

of my share in the Lester deal.

My dear Curtain, I've done nothing else

but finance you ever since we met.

You've done pretty well out of it all.

So have you. When we first met you, you

were shabby down at heels. Is there any

need to remind me of that?

Well, it amuses me to think of it.

So, you won't help me?

Why should I be expected to pay for your

extravagance?

Or is it your wife? We'll leave my wife

out of this if you don't mind.

As you wish.

I'll go to your lawyer and be back in

the morning.

Hello. Hello. Is that you? Horovan

Carling speaking. Curtain's on his way

to you now. Well, you know what you've

got to do.

No, he must bring back a note from you

advising me not to sign the agreement.

I quite understand. I've been waiting up

for him.

All right, Mr. Carling. I'll give

Curtain the note you require.

Good. Now, listen.

Houston's out.

I know Houston's out. Dr. Villa is with

me now. He's just arrived from

Leicester. [music] You better have a

word with him yourself.

Hello, Carling. Yes, I'm afraid

Houston's out. I couldn't keep him in

any longer because he isn't certifiable

any longer. It's no good blaming me.

Even a private asylum has its

responsibilities. I was compelled, don't

you understand, compelled to certify

that he was cured and sane enough to be

at large. I had no option.

Don't talk to me like that, Carly. I

took a hell of a risk in keeping him in

for so long. I'll hand you back to

Horin. [laughter]

Oh, I I am sure Dr. Vel did his best.

He's as anxious about Houston being at

large as you are.

Well, he's got to be found. I don't care

whether you have to employ every private

to check in London. Do be reasonable,

Mr. Carling. You know quite well that

none of us dare employ any kind of

detective.

I'm telling you, Horbin, he's got to be

found.

Good night.

You better come back first thing in the

morning. Kirsten's on his way here, and

it wouldn't do for you two to meet in my

house. [music]

[bell]

Very

[music]

nice house you have here. You do

yourself well.

Say, look at that

supper already.

I couldn't have it better, could I?

Oh, very good. Real swell setup. And you

knew me right away, Mr. Carling. The

name is Carling. Yes. Christian name,

Richard. Excellent choice. So much

depends on a name, especially if it

isn't your own. And you recognized me at

once. You haven't altered much. I can't

return a compliment. You have you know

this house isn't easy to find. I came

around earlier, but there was no answer.

I wasn't in and my housekeepers away

ill. That accounts for it.

I thought of writing and letting you

know I was coming, but I thought you'd

enjoy the surprise. It is a surprise.

But but what

I'm afraid I haven't got much time. I I

expect someone

another visitor.

Champagne

must be a swell dish. Is she on the

telephone?

Why? I just thought you'd like to give

her a ring and tell her an old friend

had turned up unexpectedly. I shall do

nothing of the kind.

Please yourself. I was only thinking of

her. And with regard to that drink you

were on the point of offering me, I'll

take a scotch

and don't drown it. Cigarettes.

What brings you here?

You

entered

mind if I sit down?

Yes, you, my dear Mr. Carling.

I had no other reason for coming. And if

it hadn't been for seeing a picture in a

magazine of some people in a restaurant,

I wouldn't even have known my old friend

was in London.

And although my old buddy was

fair-haired and wore a mustache, and Mr.

Carling in the picture was dark and

clean [music] shaven,

I recognized him. All right.

[music]

There's nothing in that pocket, Richard.

I don't carry a gun in England.

And now you are here.

Now that I am here, [music]

I'll have another drink.

Stop beating about the bush.

Sure, why not?

What are you going to do?

I'm not sure. Maybe I'll kill you. Ah,

don't be absurd.

Is it absurd?

Now, listen, Oliver, let's be sensible.

I admit you've got some cause for

complaint.

Of course, for complaint.

Go on.

I don't see any reason why we shouldn't

come to an agreement.

You mean money? [music]

What is?

Sure. Money is important.

Now, if you'll come tomorrow morning,

I'm sure we'll fix something. I admit I

owe you some compensation.

How much do you reckon it'll cost for

all those years in jail? You frame me

for the girl who died waiting for me.

Those others who committed suicide

because of you. You used to enjoy

watching people suffer. Surrounding

yourself with nerve-wracked, soul sick,

and humiliated creatures was your idea

of fun, wasn't it? Why do you worry over

them? Just having to beat one of them,

that's all. Do you reckon you have

enough money to cover that? Now tell me

what you want.

I want another drink.

I wonder what would happen if London

discovered who Mr. Carling really is or

was.

And I wonder what the lady friend you're

waiting for would say if she knew

something else I know about you.

That you're in such a financial mess. I

have more money in my pocket right now

than you have in the whole world.

Put that down.

Do you ever hear of a poem called

Dantis's Inferno?

What do you mean?

It's all about the different kinds of

hell. And in the lowest region, the

gentlemen who keep the devil company are

traitors.

[bell]

Kind of worries you.

I think it's a swell bit of culture

[music] myself.

Base may be a bit heavy. Horners a

little sharp.

Compensation. [music]

Reasonable compensation for broken

hearts and broken lives.

[music] You're willing to pay.

You'll pay. All right. [music]

Yeah.

[music]

Heat. [music]

[music]

[music]

Yeah. [music]

Yeah. Huh?

[music]

[music]

[music]

Grandma's crooked [music]

[music]

[music]

[music]

Hello. Yes. Who? Oh, you don't say, sir.

Who? Steady. Steady. Steady. Garrett

Storms.

Hello. I made the tea, darling. Oh,

sorry. No, I was talking to my husband.

Yes, this is Mr. Mill. Well, the

account, how is it? Oh, it hasn't been

paid. Oh, dear. Well, that's my husband.

You know what these authors are? They

will forget things. Yes. Well, we'll

have to see what we can do about it,

won't we? Would you give me the wine and

spirits department, please? No,

you're going to do.

You better see. They won't send anything

like today.

Yeah.

Darling, when you grow up, you'll

realize when you've got an account, you

can't pay the vessels. So, order

something else.

Oh, thank you. This is Mrs. William

Millington of Cranley Avenue Mansions. I

would like you to send me around a

bottle of whiskey and a bottle

goes that and a bottle of gin as soon as

possible and just charge me the account,

would you?

Oh, yes. I'll hold on.

Dear,

has my house been flown now?

Oh.

Oh, well, in that case, I'm afraid I

should just have to talk to the chairman

of the company.

Yes, of course I do. He happens to be my

uncle.

Oh, I didn't want you to know. I

wouldn't like you to think I expected

presidential treatment.

Oh, that's quite all right. You'll say

no more about it. You'll send them

around at once, won't you?

Thank you very much. Let's go by

I say who is the chairman?

Haven't the least idea. Where's Villa?

So early. Has Jack telephone.

Oh, thank goodness.

Why should it?

If he does, I want you to tell him that

I've been staying the night here.

What?

Yes. You must say that I got nervous

alone in the flat last night. I came

round to you. There's no one here to

know that I didn't. Lucky you can't

afford a maid.

Yes. Yes, I see that now.

I mean, uh,

yes.

Well, Jack went to Lester yesterday. He

wasn't supposed to be back till tomorrow

afternoon.

Oh, I see. When I got to the flat this

morning, I found his car outside. I

couldn't go in. He'd obviously found the

place empty and the bed not slept in.

Oh, dear. That's very awkward.

So, I came straight here. It's the only

thing I could think of. It's quite

likely he'd guess I came to you. I did

once before when he was away.

Yes.

What have you been doing?

That doesn't matter.

Oh, you brought your case with you, I

see. Have you got your life things in

it?

Yes. I see.

I thought I'd better listen so we can

all tell the same lies.

You are going to help me out.

Yes, very well. We always help. Thank

you, dear. You're quite sure, Jack the

Flat, I suppose. So, it must be a car

outside.

Yes, it must be. What else could it be?

There must be something wrong. Observe.

I've been ringing for half an hour. No

servants. You're not living in. There's

a housekeeper, but she's away ill. Huh?

I don't like it. I'm going to get in

somehow. Your responsibility, sir. If I

can get the front door open, will you

come in?

Yes, if I was asked him. All right. Will

you wait here?

[music]

[music]

[music]

I broke the window at the back. Look at

the lights. Still on.

This is the dining room. Should I?

[music]

It's darling. Oh my.

Take it easy, sir. Don't touch anything.

Uh, nothing moved.

No.

Uh-huh.

Now, let's get this clear, Mr. K. You

identified the body as Advil partner in

spite of the injuries to the face?

Yes. You quite sure?

Yes. Yes. Quite. Well, now you left here

at quart 11 and went straight to the

lawyer horin at Pinchley. Is that right?

Yes, that's right. Go on. Well, I was

very annoyed with the way he treated me.

Started finding quite unimportant faults

with the agreement and said he would

advise Carling not to sign it. We had a

bit of a r and I walked out. What time

was that?

Uh, just after quart 12.

And then I was expecting Carling to put

me up for the night. He brushed me off

to the Turkish bars. Uh, so you went

straight to the Turkish bars from the

lawyer's place at Finchley. Did you

speak of the Turkish bar?

Yes. I had some engine trouble in the

Finchley road that held me up for half

an hour and I got there just after 1:00.

But surely all this isn't necessary.

Nothing personal about it. Just says we

know the movements of everyone

concerned. What time did you leave the

Turkish bars? Uh, just before 9:00. I

went to my flat for a few minutes before

coming here to have it out with Carling.

And no doubt Mrs. Curtain will be able

to confirm the time you got back this

morning, if you ask her. As a matter of

fact, I'm afraid she can't. Really? Why

not? Apparently, she wasn't at home last

night. Oh, that must have been a bit of

a shock for you.

Yes, it was.

And as you said, Mrs. Curtain wasn't

expecting you back from Leicester for

another day.

Now, look here, Inspector. I'm not going

to listen to any suggestions.

Oh, no. Please don't mistake me, Mr.

Curtain. I'm sure there's a perfectly

good explanation. Uh, did you take any

steps to find out where she was?

No. No. I was in a hurry to get here.

Of course. Why didn't I think that she

probably went round to the Millington?

She did once before when I was away.

The Millingtons?

Yes, they're friends of ours.

They on the telephone.

Yeah, it's Chelsea 4358.

Got your fingerprint?

Yeah.

So, let's see.

4 3

58

5

8

M long

the Millington's quite some time.

I hear you. It's ringing.

Hello. Hello. Is that you, Steph?

Yes, it is. It's your husband.

Yes. But who is that? Oh, Jack. I'm so

sorry. I didn't recognize your voice at

first. Yes, of course she's here. She's

been here all night. She's still

dressing, I think. Well, of course. Yes,

I'll call her. Vera. Vera.

She's just coming, Jack.

It's your husband, darling. Pleasant

surprise for you.

Darling, you're back. How lovely.

Wonderful surprise.

Yes, it was stupid of me. I know, but I

was nervous all alone. I had a horrid

sort of feeling something might happen.

Yes, that's marvelous. I'll wait for

you. Goodbye, precious.

It's coming, Ron.

So am I. Of all the exhibitions of lying

I've ever seen.

Don't be silly, darling. You ain't seen

nothing yet. You go and do some more

thinking.

Well, there we are. Yes. Now, I was

nervous. Remember?

Yes, I know, dear. You still are. For

heaven's sake, try to look as if you did

stay here. Take your hat off. Oh, yes.

You got Mr. Cer's address and telephone

number.

Yes, sir. Well, thank you so much for

the email help after all. Oh, by the

way, can you make anything of that?

No, I can't. Do you always have that

little stammer? Only when I'm nervous? I

know. Tired. Well, goodbye.

Goodbye to the present. So, yes.

Well, that seems all right.

Yes. That's what I don't like about it.

I wish it had seemed all wrong.

Look at that solister Horban. Horbin.

Yes.

Mr. Harbin speaking.

Who?

Inspector Mallerie.

What?

Mr. Garling.

I take it you were his solicitor. Mr.

Horin. Mr. Curtain told us he saw you

last night about an agreement.

Yes, that's quite true. Mr. Curtain

arrived here about 11:30 last night and

stayed for about 3/4 of an hour

discussing an agreement. He was very

annoyed because I told him I couldn't

advise Mr. calling to sign it.

Certainly, inspector, you can be assured

I I'll help the police all I can, but

Mr. Curtain isn't a client of mine.

I see. Well, thank you very much, Mr.

Hardin.

Sounds a bit crooked to me, but I

believe he was speaking the truth.

I'm a good deal more interested in Mrs.

Curtain coffee.

matter.

I know what you're thinking, but that's

impossible.

Anyway, it solves a problem for us. We

don't have to search for Houston.

What was really behind Carling's

treatment of Houston?

I never found out. I only know it was

something to do with Carling forcing

Houston to build a secret chamber in

Carling's house.

Houston apparently rebelled, but Carling

forced him to do it.

What do you think Carling did to him?

Well, I rather gathered that Carling

himself attempted to brick him up alive

in the secret chamber.

In his moments of comparative sanity, he

was always muttering something about

brick on brick or his brain being in a

cloud.

Is it your opinion that he's not

entirely mad?

He's certainly not mad enough now to be

kept under restraint.

I tell you, you can't go inside. Can't

see anybody.

What's all this about? He says he wants

to see Mr. Carling, sir. And I've told

him he can't.

What's your name?

Houston.

Seems a bit uh you know, sir. What do

you want to see Mr. Carly about?

Well, it's about some papers. Yes, some

papers. Yes, [music] that's right.

When did you last see Mr. Carly?

Oh, I I couldn't say that.

Why not?

Oh, it was it was such a a long time

ago. A very long time ago. very long

time.

Was it years ago?

Yes, years ago. If if I could only see

him again.

Well, you can't see Mr. Caring now.

Just keep running. Very good.

Yes, but he owes me some money and

there's some papers in here.

You'll be a good chap and clear off

home. Go on, take my advice.

I always knew you'd get yourself into a

mess sooner or later. Be perfectly all

right if you back me up.

Yes. If we can make our husband believe

he spent a night here when you didn't.

You need to make it sound so awful.

Well, darling, it sounded like that for

a few thousand years.

Oh, for heaven's sake, don't lecture me.

Is the Jack the only one we have to lie

to? But is there anybody else? Of

course. What do you mean? You won't let

us down. I let you down. I mean, if we

go through with this, you will stick to

your story. Yes, of course,

build. This Vera business has given me a

wizard idea for the end of a short

story.

All I want now is a beginning in the

middle.

Darling, the cover is full of them. I

raised them only the other day.

Middles's in one pile, beginnings in

another. We'll choose a nice one to

read. Shirt,

Mr. Millington.

Yes.

Yes. Garage stores. A note for Mrs.

Millinton. Oh, I'll take it. Good day,

dear. Good day, sir.

Thank you,

Stephie. You won your bet.

Thought I would.

Well, I suppose this is the account.

Yes.

Uh-oh.

What is it now?

Our chairman, Sir Henry Robinson,

regrets he was unaware that he was your

uncle, but he admires your spirit and

hopes you will enjoy his.

Oh,

I love him. Of course,

Jack. Now, for heaven's sake, be careful

what you say.

Oh, I'll leave the big lies to you, too.

I'm not in your class.

Remember what I told you to stick to

your story? Yes. All right.

Hello, Jack.

Come out in a few minutes. Right.

Hello, Stephie.

Hello, Jack. There is things you only

need.

You look a bit of a wreck boy. I expect

I do. I've had a pretty hectic time.

Oh, well then you better have a drink.

How about a nice gin? I'd rather have

whiskey if you got it.

I'll have one, too, please. Yeah,

it was sweet of you to have beer.

Oh, no, Jack. Not a bit we were very

pleased to.

Can't think why she was so nervous.

Oh, well, it's just one of those things.

I often feel like that on news.

Great Scott, do you? Oh, it isn't like

Oh, here. Thank you.

Here's to the chairman.

Bless him. Who?

Oh, no one you know, old boy. Stephy's

uncle.

Jack, you look all in.

Here I am, darling.

You look terrible.

It gave me a bit of a shock to find the

flat empty. The bed not slept in.

It must have done.

I know. If I'd known you were coming

back early, I'd have left a note saying

where I was. Stephie and Bell have been

awfully kind.

Oh, not a bit. After all, what's the use

of friends? They can't give her a drink,

darling.

What was the matter? You're not usually

nervous. Oh,

I know it was silly of me, but I

couldn't help it.

Jen, dear,

thank you both.

What brought you back from Leicester so

quickly?

Well, they wanted a new contract signed.

I I promised in Leicester with it by 12.

You mean you're going back there today?

Not now.

in the circumstances.

My partner Carling was murdered last

night.

I came back last night with a new

agreement for Carling to sign. Must have

been just before 11. [music]

He told me to take it at once to his

lawyer at Finchley. I was to go back to

Carling early this morning. [music]

Now, when I got to the house, there was

no answer. I called a policeman and

broke in through a window. We

found Carling dead on the dining room

floor.

Do they know who did it?

It looks as if there was a woman in it.

Well, there is in most things, isn't

there?

Carling was obviously expecting a woman

last night. He had a supper table laid

out, flowers and everything. Champagne,

usual setup. It was all still there this

morning. Think a jolly good beginning to

another. Or would it be the end?

No, darling. We should probably come to

the end, presently.

What do you mean? Well, when they find

the Who did it?

Well, I must get to the office, ring up

Lester and try and straighten things

out. I'm sorry, darling. We'll have to

go back alone. Or could FA stay here and

I'll collect her later.

Will I be in anyone's way?

No, of course not.

It's very kind of you. No pleasure.

I'll see you after the car.

Goodbye, Steph.

Goodbye, sir.

Goodbye, B. Bye, Jack.

J, I've been thinking.

I'm so glad. Yeah,

I don't like it.

No, neither do I very much. Didn't seem

fair lying to old Jack like that.

He looked pretty rotten.

I dare say you wouldn't be looking so

good if your partner just been murdered.

I'll oversleep. I haven't got a partner.

I'm not happy about it.

Oh, Jack's quite capable of looking

after himself.

Stephie, I wonder what she really was

doing last night.

I don't think we'll let him go into

that.

Not yet. Well, you don't think?

What? Dear?

Well, she might.

Stephie. He's all right. He believed it.

Oh, how did he?

Well, whatever happens now, you've got

to stick to your story.

What do you mean? Now that we both lied

for you.

You said whatever happens. There's

nothing to happen.

Oh. Oh, isn't there? I wonder.

What are you looking at me like that

for?

Both of you.

But don't do it now. Don't lose your

head, dear.

You might need [music] it.

I [music] don't like it.

Shut up, dear heart.

Must you go?

You obviously don't want me here. I'm

going. Aren't you making rather fool of

yourself?

Now, you remember what I said. You stick

to your story.

Give me a cigarette. What you doing?

Oh dear. Last one.

I'll get some more when I got

Great Scott. It's Thursday. Lunch with

the old man.

Oh dear. Cigarettes.

One shilling. Two hapnes. Two pennies.

One and three. Ah. Two empty beer

bottles, four concern each.

Your ideas.

I'll bring back the change and anything

else I can touch the old man for. My

darling.

[music]

[music]

[music]

Uh,

Mrs. Millington.

Yes.

I'm Inspector Mallerie. I understand

Mrs. Curtain's here. Could I have a word

with her?

She was here, but she's left. She's gone

home.

Oh, in that case, may I have a word with

you?

Oh, why not? She's coming.

Sorry to bother you, Mrs. Mington. Oh,

no, not at all.

You'd bother me so much more comfortably

sitting down.

I believe I ought to ask for warrants or

identifications or Oh, Mr. Speaker,

please don't bother. I'm I don't think I

should know if I saw it.

I'm investigating the death of a Mr.

Carling.

Oh, well, I'm sure you're doing it very

well.

And that depends on how much help you

can get.

Uh, yes. Yes, of course. I'm afraid what

we call investigating involves asking

questions which sometimes seem a little

unnecessary.

Well, yes, and personal, but I can

assure you they're purely

a matter of routine.

You seem experienced, Mrs. Willington.

Well, you see, my husband writes

detective stories.

Really?

Well, ends and middles and beginnings,

but you know, routine always seems to

come into them.

And now you'd like to know the present

routine?

Yes. Won't you sit down?

I'm sorry. I haven't got any cigarettes

to offer you.

Oh, well, now me. Oh, thank you.

You have an injured arm, Mrs. Millson.

It's very clever of you to merge it.

Disguise it very well.

Oh, it was just an accident.

Recent?

No. No. Some time ago.

Well, now the routine.

That's very simple. Mrs. Curtain's a

friend of yours, I believe.

Yes.

We've taken a statement from our husband

in connection with this case, and he

told us that his wife stayed here last

night. Do you want to know if he was

telling the truth?

I suppose that's what it amounts to him.

Not that we doubt his word, of course.

Oh, no, no, of course not. But you're

just checking up. It's a matter of

routine.

Oh, I didn't.

I'm sure [clears throat] you couldn't

be, Mrs. Millington.

Oh, don't be too sure. Uh, yes, Mrs.

Curtain stayed here last night.

What time did you get here?

Oh. Oh, now let me think. What time

would it be? Was it um Oh, yes, of

course it was half 10

exactly. Well, a minute or two away

though.

And how? Why do you

remember? So, exactly. Yes, I knew that

one was coming.

It always does.

Yes. Well, now, um, well, my husband had

suddenly begun to think. He does

sometimes, you know. He'd got an idea

for the end of a short story, and I got

him some black coffee just to keep him

awake while he was thinking. And I

remember looking at the clock and

wondering how long it would be before

the coffee took effect. And it was just

10. I see. That seems very

very well thought out.

Well, I don't think I need volume any

further. And may I say how grateful I

am.

Oh, not at all, Inspector. It's been a

very pleasant little piece of

routine. Yes.

I wish all my routine were as pleasant,

Mrs. Billington.

Oh, Inspector. Thank you very much.

[clears throat]

Well, you must come back again and have

some more sometime.

Yes.

I do hope that arm isn't too painful, is

it?

Oh, no. It's a long time since you've

heard me. Good morning, Inspector.

Good morning,

[music]

99.

[screaming]

engaged.

Hello, Miss Arouch. Oh, this is Mrs.

Jack Kirk. I want a facial this

afternoon, please.

You can't? Oh, sure. You can manage

something.

Huh?

right away. It's very inconvenient.

I'll come right away.

Operator, would you get me Maya 9398?

I've had the engage signal three times

and now nothing at all. Yes, please.

This is Chelsea 4358.

I thank you very much.

The number is ringing. All right. Should

I keep on?

Oh, yes, please do. It's very important.

[bell]

Now, if you could possibly give us a

line up on any of his lady friends.

I've already told you I didn't know

anything about his private affairs. Ours

was purely a business association.

Still, you might have heard.

I knew nothing whatever about his

friends, men or women. Didn't want to.

He certainly weren't my friend. Look

here, Sergeant. I've already told you

and the inspector everything I can, and

it's no use asking me any more

questions. You really must let me get on

with my business.

But it's quite obvious that you're

better off by his death, and money

hasn't been too plentiful lately, has

it?

What are you getting at?

There's a rit out against you from a

firm of dress makers. And you owe 500 to

a money lender who's been threatening

you.

What do you mean by snooping into my

affairs?

Just routine, sir. Discretion is our

middle name. You'd be surprised the

number of things we don't tell.

I have nothing more to say. Very good,

sir.

Thank you.

I uh I suppose you've known the

Millington sometimes.

Yes. Uh more my wife's friends than

mine. I think you said that Mrs. Curtain

stayed the night with him once before

when you were away. Yes, she did. What

of it? Did she happen to say what time

she went around there last night? No,

she didn't. And what on earth is that to

do with you?

I never Thank you so much, obliged.

I hope we shall have to bother you again

since

get me Mrs. Millington's plan.

Hello, Mrs. Millington speaking. Oh,

hello, Jack. Oh, just a minute. Do you

have somebody at the door?

Mrs. Millington?

Yes. Export Fashion Company.

Thank you very much. You failed I've

given all my change to Milton. Would you

like to give you five bob? Like a nice

apple instead?

No, thank you ma'am. I wouldn't. I

belong to the no tipping league and I

like climbing five flights of stairs. I

hope what's inside will fit you.

Sorry, Jack. It was just my dress and

coke for this evening. No, the went home

soon after you left. She felt she

wouldn't stay after all.

police at your office or have they

trying for you?

Have they found out who did it?

They made up their minds there was a

woman in it. They as good as suggested

they had a clue, but they wouldn't say

what it was. I can't understand the

questions they've been asking. They even

wanted to know what time Vera went round

to you last night.

Did they? Whatever. It's got nothing to

do with them.

I suppose they just get into the habit

of asking questions.

I shouldn't worry about it too much,

Jack.

Goodbye. Heat. Heat.

[music]

[music]

Mrs. Curtain.

Yes.

My name is Mallerie, Detective Inspector

Mallerie.

Oh, I'm afraid my husband's not in.

You'll find him at his office.

As a matter of fact, Mrs. Curtain, but

you are the ones to work with.

Me?

Yes. If you don't mind, I won't keep you

very long.

If it's about Mr. Carlen, I'm afraid

there's nothing I can tell you.

Oh, well, there are just one or two

points in which you may be able to help.

I'd very much rather you saw my husband.

It's his business, not mine.

I understand you spent last night at the

Millingtons.

Yes.

What time did you get to the

Millington's, Mrs. Curtain?

What on earth does that matter?

I'd just like to know.

Must have been just after 11.

Just after 11. And were the Millingtons

both at home when you arrived?

Yes. And you're quite sure it was just

after 11?

Certainly wasn't before.

Oh, of course. The night porter here

would have seen you leave.

There isn't a night porter.

Really? Well, there ought to be,

considering the rent you must be paying.

Is your in?

She usually leaves at 6:00, but her

husband's home on leave, so she has a

few days off.

Well, there's really nothing else I can

tell you.

I'm sorry I can't answer any more

questions. I'm afraid I'll have to ask

you to go.

You better answer the telephone, Mrs.

Curtain.

Hello.

Oh, it's you. I thought it might be

I can't speak now.

You are not alone.

Oh,

it wouldn't be an inspector Mallerie by

any chance, would it?

Oh, it is. Well, now listen, dear. You

stick to your story. Do you understand?

And another thing, you got here last

night at

Hello. Hello.

Yes, I got cut off.

They hung up,

fool. Oh, no. I'm sorry. Not you. No,

it's all right. It doesn't matter.

To revert to last night, Mrs. Curt,

I refuse to answer any more questions.

Do you often stay with the Millingtons

when your husband's away?

Yes, I mean no. I did once or twice. I

can't remember.

But last night you felt rather nervous

here alone.

What's odd about that?

Nothing at all. But you quite sure it

was after 11:00 when you got to the

Millingtons.

Oh, really? I I

Mrs. Curtain, it's generally people who

have something to hide who object to

answering questions. Surely you have

nothing to hide. Or have you? You're

very rude.

There's just one more question, Mrs.

Curtain.

I refuse to answer.

Did you stay last night at the

Millingtons?

Did you?

How dare you?

I can't force you to answer.

Please go. May I remind you, it's the

duty of everybody to help the police,

particularly in a case of murder. Is

that a threat?

No, just very well meant advice.

I brought my new dress around to show

you. Well, if it isn't Inspector Man

again. More routine. Come in, Stephie.

Dear. Inspector's going.

I'm afraid I've rather annoyed Mrs.

Curtain.

Oh, have you? How did you do that?

Inspector's been asking questions about

last night.

Oh, has it? He seems to find it

difficult to believe that I was staying

with you.

No, I thought I convinced him of that.

I assure you we don't ask unnecessary

questions.

Good day, Inspector.

It was lucky you got here just in time,

Mrs. Willington.

Yes. Yes, lovely.

Good afternoon. Goodbye. Uh, could I uh

if you want to see my husband, he isn't

here.

My name is Houston. I'm I'm Houston.

It's He's very particular.

Mr. Curtain isn't here.

He's very particular. You see, I wanted

to get into Mr. Caringer's house, but

the police wouldn't let me. So, I

thought I ought to get in touch with his

partner, Mr. Curtain. I found his

address in the in the telephone

directory, but

now the parking dead.

How did you know that?

It hasn't been made public.

I knew it as if a black cloud

was lifting

from my brain.

There's nothing to be afraid of here.

Steady,

come down, Stephie.

I must talk to you.

Yes, in a minute.

What did you want Mr. Curtain for?

I thought as he was Mr. Caring's

partner, he'd know about his papers

where they were.

There's something among his papers you

want.

Yes.

Were you in business with Carly?

I'm a builder. At least I I was a

builder.

You were? I I've been away a long time.

I I think I was you.

But I'm not now. I I know I'm not.

No, of course you're not. You see, I

want to get back to my work. You know,

it's wonderful to build something. To

see a wall go up brick on brick on

brick.

Did you ever build anything for Carling?

Yes, I did.

Something that was was what?

I I can't remember. I was I was terribly

afraid. I I can't remember if I could

only see his papers. I was afraid to No.

Oh, no. No. Not now.

He's dead.

Did you kill him, Mr. Huser?

I Oh, no. I'm not strong enough. I

haven't seen him for a long time. I wish

I knew who

who did, though. I'd like to thank him.

Why don't you take him away somewhere if

you want to ask him all these questions?

This isn't a police station.

I'm sorry, Mrs. Curtain. Now, you go

along home, Mr. Houston. If I find

anything amongst Carling's papers which

concern you, I'll let you know.

Couldn't I come with you and look for

myself?

Well, I'll tell you what. I'll be

finishing up at Caring's house about uh

8:00. You come along then and I'll see

what I can do.

Goodbye, Mrs. Curtain.

Goodbye.

Thank you for being so very kind to me.

Goodbye, Mr. Houston. I'm sure the

inspector will help you.

Goodbye, Inspector.

I think I'll see the door shut this

time.

Mrs. Millington.

Hello V. Stephy here.

Yes, she's in there.

Oh, good. Hello, Stephie darling.

Hello, Bill.

Just got back and saw your note and

rushed over as fast as I could. I'm

afraid I interrupted your visitors.

Vera, Stephie, darling,

what a peculiar of a man that was. Think

so. He didn't want any papers, you know.

Stephie, darling,

he was lying.

Can I get a word in Hways?

Yes, darling. Give me a cigarette.

Darling, it's about the police.

Oh,

they picked me up this morning. started

asking me a whole lot of questions. What

about

Oh, nothing very much really. Mostly

about what time there got to our flat

last night.

What time?

And you know, I had an absolute brain

wave. I said it was the same time as the

light program news. That was the touch

that did it. 10:00.

Oh,

what's wrong with that?

I said it was 11.

Well, if you think it's a joke.

Yes, dear it is.

What kind?

I said half.

[laughter]

It's all very well for you to laugh,

Jack. Fine. Shut up. You silly little

fool up.

I was a fool ever to come to you. Oh,

you were a fool long before that.

I'm sorry. It doesn't matter what we all

said as long as you stick to your story.

Don't you understand? Yes, but if we all

said the police can't disprove anything

until they find out where you really

were last night,

Jack. Hello, everybody. Oh, what a day.

You look very tired, Jack.

I'm dead.

We're just going till I get my box,

would you?

Yeah. I thought I'd never get here. The

police have been round to the office.

No bother to see us back. Goodbye, D.

Goodbye, Dad. Jack, darling, be an angel

and get me a drink, will you? I'm all

in.

Police got anything on anybody here?

I don't know.

Man called Houston's been here asking

for you.

Houston

said it was about some papers of

Carlings. You went away with the

inspector. Inspector Mallerie.

Oh, is that his name?

I shrunk him.

What did he want?

I really can't go over all that again.

Vera,

was it about your going to the

Millingtons last night?

Oh, Jack, please

come here.

I said come here. I want to talk to you.

Sit down.

You're hiding something, aren't you?

I don't know what you mean.

Why are the police so interested in what

you did last night?

I don't know. And I don't care. I'm

tired.

I want the truth and I'm going to get

it.

Very well. You shall have it. I didn't

Stephy's last night. I didn't go there

till this morning when I saw your car

outside here.

So, you were lying all the time. and he

persuaded Stephie and Bill to lie too.

Why shouldn't they my friends?

What did you do last night? Was it that

gambling place at Brighton again?

Will you answer?

Yes, it was.

After you gave me your word,

you shouldn't have made me promise it

wasn't fair.

Did you lose much,

Bella?

Yes, I did. And I don't care.

I refuse to be cross-examined. I will

not question from you or anyone.

Extravagance. There's a rit out against

me from those dress makers of yours. And

I had to borrow £500 from a money lender

last time to get you out of trouble with

those Brighton people and save your

face. Now you're doing it again. I tell

you, you've nearly ruined me.

Mind you, my foot. You've got the

business all to yourself. Now you'll be

able to talk about your business all

night, too. I'm fed up. Forward and fed

up. You do nothing and you think nothing

but business. Business. Business.

Morning, noon, and night.

It's fortune for you that I have. It was

the money you threw away that made me

here. Do what?

You do get the business.

All of it.

Huh? What are you getting at?

That all this talk by being ruined cuts

no ice with me. Let your beastly

business take up the whole of your life.

I may as well not exist. Any wonder I

tried to get a bit of amusement

elsewhere.

I still don't see where the police come

in. I don't know. Leave me alone. Can't

you [laughter]

Hello.

Hello. This is Mr. Curtain. Is Inspector

Mallerie there, man?

Yes, the inspector's here. It's for you,

sir. Curtain.

Hello. Yes, Mr. Curtain. What's that?

Uh-huh. I see.

Put the dress

there. 23 Fortscq mansions, Brighton.

Yes. Yes, I agree. It would have saved

quite a bit of trouble if she'd said so

in the first place. All right, Mr.

Curtain. Goodbye.

Did you get that address?

Yes, sir.

Well, that's where the curtain woman now

says she was last night. What do these

people think we are? What have you found

now?

This, sir, in Caring's papers. Nothing

on the envelope. It links up with the

writing on the wall.

To the police. If I'm found murdered,

look for James C. Oliver of Chicago and

New York. He considers he has a

grievance against me and has repeatedly

threatened my life. Richard Carney. Huh.

No date. Sounds a bit phony to me. Could

be. We'll soon find out.

Oliver is here. He arrived Wednesday.

Yes.

Looks like he didn't have time to put in

the date. Well, if there is a James C.

Oliver and he was here. He probably put

up at some hotel somewhere. Call the

yard and tell him I'm on my way. Then

get Webster to check the airports and

saving list for the past four weeks.

I'll cover the hotels.

Yes, sir.

Uh, get on to Brighton and see what they

can find out from that address.

Very good, sir.

Oh. Oh, the zips got caught up on

something.

It's me, dear. Pull it down again.

No blood, darling.

Try again. Might draw some next time.

Now ready. Now

the police come to arrest us?

Might be.

Ah, all those lies and things, lassenity

or whatever they call it.

We'll ask them to handcuff us together,

darling.

Jack here.

All dressed up too. Come in. Well,

Stephie, I told Jack the truth about

where I was last night.

Yes, I thought you would. I couldn't

keep it up any longer.

It's been a good thing, really. I've

been too wrapped up in business. Ver and

I going to understand each other better

in the future, aren't we?

Yes, darling.

Good. Let's go for a drink. Of course, I

know you and Bill only did what you did

to help Bill, huh?

Well, we all have to do things we'd

rather not do sometimes, don't you,

Jack?

Did you tell anybody else?

The police. Did they make any comment?

No.

Didn't they say why they'd be so anxious

to prove that Bella hadn't stayed with

us?

I didn't ask.

I'm glad the questioning's over.

Yes. You think it is nearly

What do you mean?

I knew you wouldn't have the guts to

stick to your story. Vera,

it doesn't make any difference to you.

It's just where you're making a big

mistake.

You were only helping me.

No, dear. You thought we were giving you

an alibi, but you were really giving me

one. It's just what I wanted. Someone

who could prove I was here from 11:00

onwards.

Why on earth should you need an alibi?

You thought the inspector was bothering

you about Vera?

He wasn't, dear. It was me he was after.

And he couldn't get at me until he'd

broken down Va's story.

Why should he be after you?

Because he knew I was at Carling's house

last night.

Jesse,

you knew Carling?

Yes, Bill.

And you were there last night?

Yes, dear.

Then you

then I what?

But but I would

Oh, you were sleeping like a little

chloropformed pig when I left the flat.

That's a nice thing, I must say.

Would it be better if we all sat down?

No, I dashed about it now.

Oh, I do. Dear, you could always get up

again if you want to. I must say I'm

surprised. Yes, I thought you would be

there.

You never told me you knew, Carl.

Well, no, of course not, Bill. I knew

you wouldn't approve of the

acquaintance.

I think not. Of course. You're my wife.

Yes, I know, dear. It's all very well

expecting me to sit down. Very few

husbands would.

Oh dear. You're one of the few best

ones.

But supposing I'd woken up and find you

gone.

Well, this has nothing to do with us.

Come along, Jack. Aren't you going to

stay and see me arrested?

Arrested?

What for? For the murder of Caring.

But you didn't do it.

How can I prove that? I might have been

all right if Vera had stuck to her

story. Now that she hasn't, I'm sunk.

But they can't possibly accuse you. They

say I was the last person with Carling.

Do you think they're likely to believe

me if I swear he was alive when I left?

How could the police know you were at

Carling's house last night?

Well, I've been wondering about that. I

think I must have slipped up somewhere.

Or perhaps they found the driver of the

taxi I took and got a description of me.

Well, anyway, they know I was there and

that's that.

Bill, Darling,

I never let Carling so much as put the

tips of his fingers on me, and I never

meant to.

But you said,

"No, dear. I didn't say you thought.

Don't see what else you could have

thought when you admitted going to

Carring's house like that. Well, I'm

sorry to disappoint you, dear, but why

did you go?

Now, look, Bill, I'm not going to

explain anything now. You can believe me

or not, as you like.

Of course, I believe you.

Well, I know what I'm thinking.

Yes, dear. You're thinking it's a pity

Jack's such a light sleeper.

I'm going.

I won't stay. Jack, would you be kind

enough to induce your wife to sit down?

We must stay. Vera,

there's no reason whatever.

Yes, there is.

See who that is, M.

Sit down, Bar.

Mr. Millington.

Yes. I'm Inspector Mary. Is Mr. curtain

here. Can I come in? Yes, of course. Oh,

yes. I see he is. Good evening. Good

evening.

Well, Inspector, you're back again. How

very nice. We thought perhaps you might

looking again.

Yes.

I suppose you know Mrs. Curtain has

Oh, yes. I was afraid she wouldn't stick

to her story, but you mustn't mind her.

You see, she hasn't had my experiences.

She'll do better next time.

Yes. Well, I hope not. It's a serious

matter deceiving the police.

Well, of course. I knew why you were

trying to break down her story.

Stephie,

wouldn't you like to sit down? No, of

course not. You can't arrest people

sitting down, can you?

I beg your pardon.

Well, I suppose I might as well admit I

was at Carling's house last night.

Mrs. M, we've reached a point where we

must have the truth and nothing but the

truth. You do admit you were at

Carling's house last night.

It saves time, doesn't it?

You realize the seriousness of your

admission?

Naturally, Inspector,

were you at the time of the murder?

No.

Can you prove that? No, I'm afraid I

can't.

What time did you get there?

Oh, 12:00.

Was calling alone?

Oh, yes.

Was he expecting you?

Eagerly.

So, you with a visitor who was going to

suffer?

Yes, it was all for me. Flowers and all.

Were you in the habit of visiting his

house late at night?

No. Police or no police? I'm dashed.

It's all right, darling. It's all right.

This is just routine.

Mrs. Millington, what time did you

leave?

12.

So, you were there only half an hour.

Well, you see, I left because somebody

else came.

Who was it? I don't know. I went into

another room, naturally.

Could you hear them talking?

Only very faintly, Inspector, but it was

enough to know that it was a man. Whilst

they were in the dining room, I slipped

out of the house.

So, we've only your word for it that

there was another visitor.

I'm afraid so.

Your word hasn't been very reliable so

far, has it?

Well, no. I suppose it hasn't. Really?

You understand the position you've put

yourself into by these admissions?

Perfectly.

Well, Mrs. Millington.

No, inspector. No good. Darling,

you can't arrest her. She didn't do it.

Just a minute.

Mrs. Millington has told the truth.

Go on, Mr. Curtain. How do you know?

I went back to Carling's house last

night, and I can testify that he was

alive and well when she left.

Jack,

what are you saying?

Keep out of this, Villa. So, it was you

who came to Carling's house?

Yes. What made you go back to the house

at that time? I was so furious when I

left the solicitor at Finchley that I

went back to have it out with Carling.

How long did you stay? Only a few

minutes. And he was alive when you left.

Very much so. So, all your story about

being held up on the Finchley road was

invented to allow for the lapse of time

before getting to the Turkish bars when

you were really at Carling's house.

I must say it's not easy getting the

truth out of you people.

Inspector,

I wish you'd tell me something. How did

you know I'd been to Carling's house?

You tell me just now. I had no idea of

it before.

Well, I

Why did you come here? For the pleasure

of calling us liars?

No, Mr. Millington. I came to ask Mr.

Curtain a question. I went with Fat

first. He wasn't there, so I tried here.

But what is it?

Did Carling say he was expecting a third

visitor?

No. Do you remember him mentioning the

name Oliver? Jim Oliver? Oliver?

Yes. Yes, I think I do remember his

mentioning the name some time ago. Can

you remember what he said? I think he

said something about Oliver being the

only man he was afraid of. He was

talking of the time he was in America.

Why, Inspector?

It seems pretty certain he turned up

last night.

How did you find that out? We have our

methods.

Have you traced him?

No, not yet. He can't get away. Well,

I'm glad I'm not in this Mr. Oliver

shoes.

May I give you all a word of advice? If

any of you have any dealings with the

police again, tell the truth at the

beginning. Makes it so much easier for

everybody. Good night, you all.

Inspector,

I understand you're seeing Mr. Houston

again at 8:00 this evening. Aren't you,

Houston? I expect so. Why do you ask?

It was just that I felt rather sorry for

him.

I do hope you'll find what he wants.

We'll do our best. Good night. Good

night.

Now, can we go? It's very late. Yes. So

am I. Jack, would you give me a list of

the fashion fair gala?

Yes. Yes, of course, Stephie.

Thank you.

We'll wait for you in the car.

Good night, girl. Good night, Jack.

Well, darling, you've got plenty of

middles and beginnings to work on now,

haven't you?

I've got to think of an end.

I'll try and find one for you. Shall be

late.

Look after yourself.

[music]

Thanks, Jack, for telling the inspector

that Carling was alive when I left the

house.

You'd have been in a tough spot if I

hadn't.

Yes, I know. Were you thinking going to

Carling space later on this evening?

Why?

Don't.

Are we parked here for the night or

what?

Get me a taxi cookie.

It's a man here called Houston. He has

an appointment with you, sir. Oh, we'll

tell him I'm sorry, but we haven't been

able to find anything referring to him.

We're packing up here. Get your coat.

Hello? That you Horton? I finished here.

Have you picked up Oliver yet? Oh.

Oh, never mind. See you in the morning.

little blighter seems to have opted,

sir. Not a sign of him anywhere.

Nice night. Good to have a bit of fresh

air. I think I'm walking into the

station.

Yes, sir.

[music]

[music]

[music]

[music]

Heat. Heat.

[music]

[music]

There's the key. I shan want it anymore.

You look charming.

Yes, of course I do. I'm going to a

party.

I hope you'll enjoy it.

Oh, I'm sure I shall. By the way, I

thought I was the only one in the

secret. It appears I wasn't.

Who is?

Jack Curtain.

How do you know?

Well, he told his little story about

coming here and finding your body. I

knew he must be in it. Did he tell you?

A

situation arose in which, as a decent

fellow, he had to admit he was here

after I left.

He had no business to admit it to

anyone.

Be afraid of him. He lies almost as well

as I do.

So, you made him identify Oliver's body

as yours.

I wondered what you're going to do.

Oh, it was quite simple. You see, it was

in my house. We put Oliver in a suit of

mine. My papers were on him, and my

partner identified him as me.

Not bad, eh?

Anyway, Oliver's face wasn't

recognizable.

Chance, aren't you?

I've had to be.

I suppose you made it worth cursing

while to take the risk.

Oh, he wanted money badly.

You were able to give it to him.

It was Oliver's. He told me he had more

money on him than I had in the world.

[laughter] And he was right. Oh, you do

have the luck of the devil, don't you?

Well, you say he looks after his own.

Yes. You make a very nice getaway from

all your troubles, financial and

otherwise, with Oliver's money.

Uh-huh.

I think you are very wise to give

yourself a hideout in the house. I bet

you could tell some tales.

Unlike a woman, he doesn't.

Where is it? Is it in the roof? Oh, my

dear Stephie, I prefer to remain a

hideout.

Is there a way in here? Really?

There are two ways in and two ways out.

I met a charming little person this

afternoon at the curtain.

He said his name was Houston.

What? That rat?

And he said he once spilled something

for you. He couldn't quite remember what

it was.

Oh, he's off his head. He's been in an

asylum. Yes, he had a breakdown just

after he finished that building job for

you.

What did you do to him?

Better not ask.

Would you tell me something?

Anything.

Is there any possibility of your

changing?

Well, I shouldn't think so. I hope not.

Wherever you go, you'll always be the

same.

Well, that's the way I was made.

Yes, I suppose so.

But let's talk about you. I didn't think

there was a woman in the world who could

get me down. But you have.

I appreciate the compliment.

If Oliver hadn't come last night.

Oliver or no Oliver, it wouldn't have

been any use.

Have you been playing with me?

Yes, perhaps I have.

And don't you think it might be a a

dangerous game?

All the best games are dangerous.

What do you mean? Have you given me

away?

No. I I thought you had

I could have given you up to the police,

not come back. [music] I didn't want you

to be hanged.

I wanted to kill you

myself.

What?

You want to kill me?

Of

course, we both changed a good deal

since then.

Who are you?

It was in 1942.

I was in France in the resistance

movement helping British airmen to get

away.

It was there I met my husband.

But the Germans got me. They sent me to

a camp in Germany. [music]

It wasn't a very pleasant place.

The world heard a great deal about that

camp. Later on, most of the people in

charge are caught and hanged.

You got away.

The comedant used to amuse himself

with the prisoners.

One day he was a little bored. He wanted

a little target practice.

So, he used me tied up against the wall.

The idea was I suppose to see how near

he could get without actually hitting

me.

He must have been out of form.

The last [music] two went into my left

arm.

Don't you remember her? Commandant, Otto

Steiner. Don't [music] Don't you

put that down.

You say where you are.

I have no [music] intention of being

killed. I assure you.

You killed yourself when you had

Oliver's body identified as [music]

yours.

Extraordinary.

I don't even remember you.

[music]

No, no.

Up against the wall, eh?

Well, surely [music]

go on, move.

[music]

Your arms are stretch.

[music]

All right, the right will do.

[music]

Now I remember you.

[music]

Well, well, well. Small world.

That gives me a [music] chance to

complete the job.

I hate to leave things unfinished.

[music]

There's nothing to be afraid of now.

Is he dead?

Yes. I think that after all he should

have died without knowing by whose hand.

Oh, you wouldn't be afraid of that. I

wouldn't harm you.

yours.

You must leave nothing in this place.

I I thought perhaps I might see you

again.

Don't be afraid of me.

I'm not mad.

[music]

I never was.

You must go away now and forget that

you've ever seen me.

What about you?

I have a plan. There's nothing that you

can do.

[music]

[music]

What a beautiful cloak.

Just as it should be.

I shall remember you with gratitude

always.

And are you

Police, I want to leave a message for

Inspector Melie. It's very, very

particular.

My name's Houston.

Yes, Houston.

I've just executed Richard Carling. I'm

at his house waiting.

[music]

[music]

[music]