Original subtitles

Thank you.

Isn't it lovely?

Beautiful. When do you get married? Three weeks' time.

I suppose it's appropriate.

What is?

Well, he is a tea merchant.

Yes.

I suppose it is.

You engaged, Miss Charlemont?

No. No, I'm not.

Plenty of time.

No need to jump at the first offer.

Electric, I say.

Mr. Hillary insists on the best.

It's serviced every three months.

How long have you been here? 11 years.

Ever since he won his seat. You know he's an MP.

Yes, of course.

Oh, Mr. Hillary, this is Miss Chaloner. You have an appointment to see her. Of

course. How do you do? Sorry to keep you waiting. You didn't.

Would you like to go through?

Thank you.

Hold any calls, Miss Fawcett? Yes, Mr. Hillary. Oh, Mr. Lane called.

What did he want? The Home Secretary would like to see you on Friday.

Where? At the house. 11.45.

Better make a note of it. Oh, it's already in your diary, Mr. Hillary.

Thank you.

One drawback of a glass, when we do get a bit of sun, it takes the colour out of

everything. Please sit down.

Thank you.

I'm on my third carpet already.

Smoke?

Do you want me honest or tactful? Honest every time. Then I'll smoke.

What can I tell you?

I know your references and speeds are all right, otherwise you wouldn't be

here. Miss Fawcett would see to that.

She seems very efficient.

She is.

And very pleased with her tea service.

Between ourselves, buying it gave me great pleasure.

Why was that?

An in-joke. In politics, a silver tea service means the order of the boot.

You know what I mean? After that comes the vote of thanks.

I'm with you.

The same efficiency, but less of the apron strings.

Do I make myself clear?

Like crystal.

You know I wear two hats.

A politician's and a businessman's. Yes, I know.

Interested in politics?

Honest, remember.

Not particularly.

Well, that's not a bad thing. The business is straightforward.

I preside at meetings and I entertain.

There are a few Indian tea planters' names to get off.

Banerjee, Sarawati, and so on. Otherwise, there's nothing to it.

It sounds easy enough.

It's the political Hillary you'll have to worry about.

Meetings to arrange deputations, correspondence with constituents.

Then there are all the personal things.

Seeing that I'm in the right place at the right time. Lunch bookings, train

times, plane reservations.

Oh, and keeping my wife in touch. That's very important.

Think you can cope? I'd like to try.

That's my wife and daughter.

They're in Cannes, like its own says. Very nice.

You know it? Not yet.

Ambitious. When can you start?

Tomorrow. Great. Miss Fawcett will be delighted.

Give her longer for a truce, sir. Then I'll see you tomorrow.

I hope you'll be very happy. Thank you.

Get Miss Fawcett to show you the filing system.

Never catch a secretary with nothing to do. There's always the filing. It's very

true. Ganging up on me already.

Till tomorrow.

Tomorrow.

Hey, miss.

Hello, Jimmy.

Welcome to Toik. Here.

Have some lemon.

Thank you.

Oliver been in here?

Not since lunch.

He was here with another chap.

He didn't leave a message, did he?

No. Were you expecting him?

Must have beaten him to it.

You get tired of waiting, miss, give me a shot.

I'll do that.

Your looks and my tips, we two know this place.

You won't forget your lunch date, Mr. Hillary.

No, I'll go straight there.

Can't keep the cabinet waiting.

That's what I thought.

Thank you.

How are you settling in?

It's early days, but fine so far.

Find the work interesting?

Most.

Good. About what time will you be back?

That's the sort of question you don't ask. Not when I'm lunching with Bill

Bryce. I thought I'd get my hair done.

It looks fine as it is. Might be a few minutes late.

One thing's for sure.

I won't be here to check on you. And you don't mind?

Not in the least.

You've got to look smart. It's good for business. Thank you.

Either we go into the lobbies as a united party, or... We will do that.

With five members ill and two abroad.

Robert, you worry too much.

What's the use of an expense account if you don't enjoy it?

Do you see who's over there?

Do you think he'll make something of this?

Robert Hill is always good for paragraph nowadays.

Sole bon fan.

That's a significant choice. And you're scampi. Very sinister.

Robert, I've news for you.

About the commission?

I'm still as keen.

Do you have to ask?

You've got it.

Official? Will be.

PM's releasing the news next week, after the defense debate.

Marvelous. A waiter. A bottle of Paul Roger, the 57.

Yes, sir.

Only one bottle? At a time. Bill, I'm thrilled. All thanks to you for your

contribution. Nonsense.

No one knows the same better than you.

Some of the best tea-growing country in the world. Can I tell Adele? Not till

it's released.

Thought she was still in the south of France. She is.

Well, I hope it's warmer there than it is here.

I've been telling him all for years.

It's in his constituency.

That's where an MP charges his battery. Every time. It's the one basic

principle. Frequently overlooked. Frequently.

He's raced the damn thing all around the country. In Newmarket, Epsom, Brighton.

I don't think it's finished yet.

Because he doesn't know anything about horses. You try telling him that.

What more?

Just a bubble.

Thank you.

Miss Challoner, I'd better do some letters.

Oh, please sit down.

The first is to Edward Smith, my agent.

In the address book?

Yes.

My dear Ted, thank you for your letter.

I see your point about the new women's club.

But I'm afraid I can't make it for the inauguration.

I'll send them a nice long telegram.

A nice long telegram.

He'll read it out to them, you see.

Did we acknowledge that Board of Trade report?

Yes, I sent it off this morning.

Oh, good. How did that last bit go?

I'm afraid I can't make it for the inauguration. I'll send them a nice long

telegram. I'll pay them an informal visit next time I come down.

In the meantime...

In

the meantime, we...

And the same again.

Not me.

Well, with this hand, I could go on raising you all night.

There's only one thing that stops me. Money.

Here we go.

Four jacks.

Sorry, friend.

Four kings.

I don't believe it. Simply don't believe it. There they are.

Yes,

I'm sorry.

Forget it.

No, no, it was very bad form. I thought I had that one sewn up.

Luck of the draw.

You can't complain on that score.

Well, that's how it goes.

Feast or famine.

Well, the spirit's willing, but the cash is weak.

Have I got enough to see you through? Oh, yes, thanks. I've got my checkbook

back at the hotel. Excuse me.

I think I'll pack it in.

Yep, I'd love to.

Hope you're on expenses.

Well, don't run to this.

You've got the wife's spin dryer there.

I'm sorry.

Yes, you look it.

I should have stayed downstairs.

What, with the g-strings and the cold tea?

It's been cheaper.

Anyway, thanks for the game.

Sure, he'll be all right.

Finally met him in the boozer. We've got nearly 40 quid. You shouldn't worry.

Bye, Major.

Oh, goodbye.

Sorry it didn't work out better.

Next time, baby.

Well, for you perhaps, but I'll come in.

I've learned my lesson.

Bye. Bye.

Lesson little game. Yes, how much do we make?

26. 13 for you, 13 for me. Yep.

Well, it's only just right.

What do you expect? Trading stamps?

Same time tomorrow?

Why not, Major?

Adds a touch of glance.

Major Broderick, while that's... They must be out.

She'll be gone by now.

Look, you stick to your cards. Oh, and be careful when you deal off the bottom.

A blind man could see that.

In for life?

You've got time off for good behavior.

Go away, please.

We've been through that before.

Come on, Frankie.

We've got a car outside.

Leave me alone.

You can grow old waiting for him.

Don't you get the message.

We are not going anywhere together.

All right.

Stick with the layabouts.

Pick any winners?

Not when I picked you.

How are you, my darling? Don't soft-soap me.

Well, not very late, am I?

Putting it mildly. Well, you are going to forgive me. When?

When I tell you.

That's right. Turn it on.

I've been negotiating for a job.

Oliver, you can do better than that. No, seriously.

A job, salary, hours, everything.

Where? Jack's Club?

The barn?

Well, I'm sorry if that's your attitude.

Oh, darling, don't be cross.

Well, look, you don't give me much encouragement. I'm sorry, love.

Cheers.

Hello, Oliver.

Hello, how are you?

Oh, can't complain. How's the writing going?

Great.

Is he really a writer?

Yes. What sort of stuff? He tests ballpoint pens.

You know, I'm not kidding about this job. I've really had an offer. Who from?

Marty.

Oh, him.

Well, now what's wrong?

I don't trust him.

Listen, he does all right. He's one of the sharpest men in Warren Street. Maybe

that's why I don't trust him.

What do you want you to do?

Handle sales, chat with customers, that kind of thing.

He's quite a character. You'd like him.

I wouldn't. Hey, I was in his office the other day and a fellow came in and said

his engine was smoking.

So Marty said to him, well, how old's the engine?

So the fellow said, 12 years old. So Marty said, well, it's old enough to

smoke, let's face it.

Darling, you're a fool, don't you see?

See what?

He's only going to use you.

Get you to drum up trade, old army friends.

And you'll have to sell them a lot of dud cars.

How do you know that?

It's obvious.

Did he mention anything about the army?

Regimental associations, anything like that?

Darling, you're too honest.

Look, darling, I've got to do something.

I'm broke, flat, stony broke.

I'll lend you some.

Don't be silly. I can't keep living off you.

Just to tide you over till things get better. But things may never get better.

Well, they won't with people like Marty.

Look, darling, let's try the newspapers again.

Get the Times tomorrow. What do you say?

Well, maybe I could write to some of the chaps.

Perhaps get on to the British Legion.

There you are.

Wait for something decent, then crack it.

Yes, I suppose you're right.

Let's have a drink.

An emcee working in Warren Street.

Well, it wouldn't be the first.

Two more, Jimmy.

Things aren't so bad.

Let's be grateful I'm working.

Of course, the new job. I forgot to ask you how you were getting on.

Joke? Not really.

Well, come on, share it.

Nothing to share. Oh, come on, Frankie. I could do with a laugh like that.

It's the new boss. He's sweet on me.

Already? Mm-hmm.

You're imagining it. He kissed me.

Did he?

Well, you needn't act so surprised.

What was it?

Fatherly peck?

Yes. If you call both arms around my neck, squeezing the living daylights out

of me, a fatherly peck.

Both arms, eh?

It's a bit strong for the first week.

He's a sweetie.

Yeah, I'm sure.

He's a big shot, isn't he?

Mm-hmm. He's got a book of press clipping. Is this big?

MP and all that.

Is he married?

What is this, an interrogation?

Is he married?

Yes. Wife, daughter, big car, chauffeur. Takes two hours for lunch.

Who, the chauffeur?

Anything else?

No, I think that's all for now, thank you. Why all the interest?

Oh, I was just curious, that's all.

Just curious.

Thank you. Thank you, sir.

Enjoy the dinner.

Delicious. Would you like to see the chef at work?

No, not really.

Not a curious person, are you?

Not when it comes to kitchens. You've seen one, you've seen them all. I don't

agree. That's where we're different.

Vive la difference.

That's not what I meant, Mr. Hillary. I thought not.

Come on, drink up. We've got work to do.

Do you mind if I make a suggestion?

Go ahead.

If we go back to the office, it'll take us what? Half an hour to get there?

Depends how soon we get a taxi.

My flat's five minutes walk.

Hasn't got strip lighting. The coffee's only instant. A good idea.

We needn't kill ourselves, but we must get something done on paper tonight.

He only does these things to annoy people.

Chez moi.

Make yourself at home.

That's Cassius.

Yours? No.

I just look after him. He belongs to the little girl across the hall.

Coffee?

Please.

Do you like it?

What? The plant.

Oh, yes.

Here. Don't have far to go, do you?

What for?

For anything.

Sit down, please.

Do you mind if I smoke?

No. You can give me one.

Thank you.

Rome.

A friend of mine goes around the world stealing ashtrays.

I used to be a clothes hanger man myself, but they're so bulky.

Back away.

Coffee. Oh, black.

No sugar.

When does your wife get back?

Tomorrow afternoon.

Campbell's meeting her.

Does he know?

Yes, yes.

Good.

Saves me having to tell him.

Ready when you are.

Commonwealth trade.

Date, para one.

Jackie.

Jackie. Hello.

Oh, what a question. Hey, listen, do me a favor, will you? Take a walk for a

couple of hours.

We've got a couple of mugs downstairs dying to lose their money.

How much? Three quid.

Two hours? I could share both that.

All right, then five.

Make it ten and I'll go to the pictures. Come on. Not you. All right.

Hey. What? Cash down.

Do me a favour, will you? You know I don't carry that kind of money around

with me. And another thing. What now? You tell your friend Bert not to smoke

so much.

My drapes are full of cigarette smoke.

Drapes, yet?

You go out with too many yanks.

You're dead sprossy, aren't you?

Oh, this neon light gets on my nerves.

What's the matter with it? One minute I'm red, next minute I'm green. I feel

like a cinema organ.

Here, we'll have it away now, will you?

Hello. Good night.

It's an open challenge to those who have lost faith in Africa.

For I believe this new world will one day stand in the same relationship to

the old as the Americas now stand to Europe.

More coffee?

No, thanks.

I think we'll stop there, Frances.

So soon?

I'm whacked.

Got a bit of a headache.

Fair enough.

Tomorrow's clear, isn't it? Mm-hmm.

We'll have a real blitz then. Nine o'clock?

On the dot.

I'll get your coat.

Thanks for the dinner.

Thank you for the coffee.

You're welcome.

Sorry we didn't do more. That's my fault.

We'll make up for it tomorrow.

Good night.

Good night, Franz.

Francis! What on earth?

Oh, who the hell are you?

Robert Hillary?

Yes. Well, my name's Challoner.

Francis' brother.

Oh, pleased to meet you. How do you do? Obviously, you're on Christian name

basis. I don't have much time for formality.

Where's Francis?

That's what I came to see you about.

I'll come into the office.

Thank you.

I like your sight.

I have to be in the center of town. It's the only way I can cope.

She didn't tell me she had a brother.

No, probably not.

We don't see a great deal of each other.

Like the press release says, we're just good friends.

Hard not to be.

How do you mean?

Frances is a nice girl.

Yes, she is.

What's happened?

She always comes to see me when she's in trouble, you know.

Anything wrong?

She came this morning, as a matter of fact. Is she ill?

No, no, not ill.

More upset.

Do you know what I mean?

I know what upset means, but what caused it?

Well, it was last night.

What was it?

It was a nasty shock.

Has she had an accident?

No, not an accident.

More of a shock.

Mr. Chandler, stop fencing. What gave her this shock?

You did, Mr. Hillary.

Would you explain that?

I shouldn't have thought that was necessary.

Certainly not to you.

Let's assume that I'm dense, shall we?

You explain.

Look, I hope we can discuss this business reasonably. What business?

I'd like to ask you a couple of questions. Go ahead.

Why did you trick my sister into taking you back to her flat?

Go on.

Why did you pretend it was to work?

And why did you try to take advantage of her?

You're out of your depth.

You picked the wrong girl, Mr. Hillary.

She didn't want to play your game. You should have left her alone.

I won't have my sister treated like a tart.

Did she tell you all this?

Who else?

Where is she?

Well, you won't find her.

You didn't expect her to come back, did you?

Yes.

Damn near rape from what I can make out.

Rape?

Yes. She needs a rest, you know.

A long rest.

Somewhere by the sea.

Now, that's a good idea.

At my expense, of course.

That's very kind of you.

Get out before I call the police.

Go ahead.

There's too much against you, Mr. Hillary. What?

Evidence.

You don't think they'd accept your sister's word against mine, do you?

Well, we'd have to see, wouldn't we? Ever heard of corroboration?

I've heard of publicity.

At least you put your cards on the table.

Plain, old-fashioned blackmail.

Say that.

What would you say?

I just want to see my sister get a fair crack of the whip.

The only crack of the whip that she'll get is a long term in Holloway.

You can't prove that I ever set foot in her place.

Oh, I can't.

But the porter can.

You know, it must be a nuisance sometimes.

Being well known, I mean.

Supposing I just sit tight?

What then?

Would you prefer charges?

We're not vindictive, Mr. Hillary. It wouldn't do us any good to see you in

the dark. Your career ruined.

No, I... I just want to see my sister get fair play.

Fair play?

Yes.

I'm sure we can settle this between ourselves amicably.

And if we don't?

Ah.

Ah, well then, I'm afraid we'd have to bring an action.

What for?

Damages. Assault.

Mental health, that sort of thing.

She'd not only lose the action, she'd end up in prison.

Perjury. I wouldn't envy you, though.

Explaining to your wife, your constituents, party whips.

Would open your daughter's eyes a bit, wouldn't it?

What's the cost of a recuperative holiday?

That's better.

How much?

A hundred pounds.

I can't afford to be stingy where Helson's at. I'll give you a cheque. No

cheques. Cash.

This is it.

Understand. Just once.

Once.

How much?

100 pounds.

And that's only the hors d'oeuvre.

Did he object?

Well, of course he objected. That's his privilege.

Any threats?

Yes, all from me.

Did he ask about me?

Oh, yes, he sent love and kisses.

I don't like it. No?

Well, all the more for those that do.

He's a nice man. Nice?

He's a dead villain.

All those half-starved Indians going potty-picking his tea while he takes two

hours for lunch and talks about equality. I could talk about equality if

I had his money. Money? It's always money. Yes.

Yes, you're absolutely right.

It's always money.

It even takes money to get plastered.

but not as brown as last year.

Nonsense. I look like a native.

A very attractive one. Now I know why Gauguin left home. How are you?

Fine. You're thinner.

Well, that's good. Too many late nights.

There'll be some sad hearts in the chorus tonight.

How's Judy?

She's all right.

Come again?

I want to talk to you about her.

What about this boyfriend?

The Czech fellow.

Of course, it's just infatuation.

Did you convince her? I don't think so.

We'll have to do something.

Shall we ask him over, young Romeo?

Well, here.

Get the fish out of water. Let her see him out of context.

She'll soon change her mind.

Yes, a very good idea.

The classic method.

Chapter one.

And if it doesn't work?

I'll have to read chapter two, won't I?

You sure it isn't half past yet?

Quite sure.

You didn't even look.

I've got a teller on this horse, remember?

Question is, does the horse know?

What page is the radio on?

Must be in there somewhere.

Find it?

Did you find it?

We have backed a winner.

How do you know?

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hillary week-ending with the Chancellor of the Exchequer.

What about it?

Well, we start to move.

End of hors d'oeuvre, beginning of main course.

No more hundred pounds, that is.

No more?

How many have there been?

Eh?

I said, how many times have you been to see Hillary?

Just the once.

Liar. All right, a couple of times.

Two more or two in all?

Two more.

Why didn't you tell me?

I didn't want to worry you.

Didn't want to worry me about the money either.

What have you done with it?

Well, we spent it.

We've been living it up these past few weeks, hadn't you noticed?

Oliver, sometimes you scare me. Well, that's good. You can push him just so

far. How far would that be? Don't do it anymore, please.

Frankie.

Frankie, this is a big fish. Look, if it was just a case of him buttering up the

old woman, all right, it wouldn't be on.

But this is a big one. It won't stop him going to the police. No?

No.

Hillary tells the inspector, the inspector tells the super, the super

tells the commissioner.

The commissioner has a word with the home secretary, who just for fun tells

the cabinet.

Bingo, he's ruined. So would we.

We've got nothing to lose.

Speak for yourself.

Oh, come on, Frankie. Look, I know how you feel, but... Well, big ones come

along just once.

Believe me.

Good morning, Miss Stewart.

Morning, Mr. Hillary.

Mr. Chaloner to see you, sir.

I see the brown macrute was spreading again.

Come in.

You can go straight out again.

You've had 300 pounds. You won't get another penny out of me.

You're taking a very dangerous line, Mr. Hillary.

Get up. I have nothing more to say.

The next stop will be my lawyer. Get out.

You'll be sorry.

So will you if you don't get out.

All right.

If that man calls again, I don't want to see him. Yes, Mr. Henry.

I'll dictate later.

Hillary here.

Hello, Bill. How's things?

At number 10.

Marvelous, of course. Can I guess what it's about?

I'll be there.

Goodbye.

Would you get my wife, please?

Six favourable, one lukewarm, the mirror's undecided, and William Hickey

thinks your suit's shiny.

Six round, that's not bad.

You might have told me. I couldn't. I was sworn to secrecy. I think it was

very mean.

Hey, is that the time?

Will you have to go to India?

Possibly, but not for a few weeks yet. How about a celebration dinner?

Great. Just the two of us. Of course.

Salmon suture?

Fine. Champagne?

No, no, not champagne. Why not?

I didn't enjoy it last time.

Oh, answer that, darling.

Traffic willing, I'll be at the office in 40 minutes.

Yes, yes, it is.

Good morning, Miss Stewart.

Morning, Mr. Hillary.

Any messages?

Just a few.

Lord Dartell, Mr. Abbott, Sir Philip Bennett.

He said he'd see you at the house. Good.

Mr. Bryce, Ted Smith.

Oh, and Mr. Chaloner called.

Yeah? About 20 minutes ago.

I said I wouldn't see him. Yes, I told him.

What did he say?

That it was all right. Is that all?

He asked me to give you a message. I didn't understand it, so I took it down.

He thinks it would be best to take the matter of the girl direct to the

commission. He'd like you to think about it.

Does that make sense?

Thank you, Monsieur.

Peter Fletcher.

My solicitor.

That's the situation, Peter.

It's simple. You think so? We'll take proceedings.

Isn't there any other way? You've no alternative.

But I sent him packing last time. And he came back, didn't he? No, we'll trap

him. Mark, notes, witnesses. Leave all that to the police.

Then what?

Prosecution. Demanding money with menaces.

Peter, forget you're my solicitor for the moment. My advice would still be the

same. They won't stop till they've bled you dry. They never do.

By the way, if Adele asks me what you're... You're slicing your putts.

Giving you a little tuition.

Where do we start? It's so bloody embarrassing.

I wasn't suggesting the man on the beat.

No, you'd only deal with the top brass.

They talk, don't they?

They're pretty discreet.

Robert, this isn't unique, you know. It happens every day of the year.

Not to people in my position. Don't you believe it?

What about the trial?

There'll be a trial, won't there?

You'll plead guilty. You won't even be called.

You think so?

I know it.

Well, you'll give evidence at the police court, of course.

Every newspaper in town will pick it up. Nonsense. They'll clear the place.

Entire hearing and camera. You'll appear as Mr. X and no one will be any the

wiser. It sounds too easy.

You've read blackmail cases with the prosecutors X or Mr. A.

Ever found out who they were?

How often were they men that people knew?

More often than you imagine.

Think of the alternative, Robert. Paying over extortion money all your life.

Will you contact the police?

Leave everything to me.

Let's go and have a drink. Fine.

Remember, Robert, the law books are full of cases just like this.

Of course, we'll have to get the girl as well, sir.

Is it necessary, superintendent?

I'd sooner leave her out if possible.

It's possible, but I don't recommend it.

Well, according to your records, he's the villain.

Put him away, Robert. She might continue on her own. Exactly, sir.

Or another of her brothers.

We'd start all over again.

I don't believe it. She's never been here with him, not once.

You're overlooking one important factor.

What's that?

On the day the blackmail started, she didn't come to work.

That's collusion.

She's in it, Robert, every step of the way. It could even be her idea.

Perhaps you're right.

Leave it to me, sir.

What will you want me to do?

Get them in this office.

I won't go, and that's an end of it.

He's got a point, Frankie, love. Can I admit that? I'm admitting nothing. I

don't even want to talk about it. I think it's a good sign.

Bully for you. Look, he wants to see you. That proves he's on my level.

Never asked to see me before. Well, we never asked for a thousand pounds

before.

Pounds? Yes, from each according to his capacity. That's a good old Marxian

principle. He won't wear it. Look, he's a romantic.

He can't believe you're in this with me.

He thinks I'm making it up.

It's a trap.

All right, so why did he wait?

He could have trapped me any time he wanted.

I don't believe it. Look, he's proud.

He'd die rather than have this story out in the open. The dinners, the visit to

your flat.

The silly papers that slay him. He's got desperate. I told you he would.

Nonsense. We haven't pushed him that far yet.

It had to stop somewhere.

Why? Forget it.

Look, am I asking so much?

A nine-penny bus ride for a thousand pounds?

I wouldn't go within a mile of that office.

All right. Well, if you won't go, I can't force you.

That's right.

Well, that's it then.

What do you mean? You and me finished.

Finished?

You'll be better off without me.

We'll record the entire conversation.

I didn't think that this kind of thing was permissible.

A little frightening powder works wonders.

We leave it a little open on the desk.

If that's all right with you.

You're clear what's going to happen?

Word perfect.

Not long now, sir.

You make it sound as though it happens every day.

Yes, commonplace, sir.

Secretary in our paramour threatening to charge her boss with sexual assault.

Mr. X came to see you himself, did he?

Yes, sir.

On the advice of his solicitor.

And you made the arrest?

I did, sir.

Did either of the prisoners resist?

Yes, sir.

Oliver Marchant.

There was a bit of a punch-up.

A fist fight, sir.

See, I told you it was nothing.

You think that's it? It is for my money. By the time the police have finished, it

will all be sold off.

Well, I hope it's that clear to everyone.

Especially their lawyers.

They'll advise them to plead guilty.

You think so? It means a smaller sentence.

We haven't the beginnings of a case.

We'll know by lunchtime.

Well, how did it go?

I'm sorry, Robert.

What do you mean you're sorry?

They're not pleading guilty.

No, but you said it was a certainty. No.

You said they had no alternative.

Damn court-carrying solicitors. Never heard of either of them. What the hell's

that got to do with it? Why didn't they plead guilty?

They both denied everything, reserved their defenses. They promised a total

answer. So how did it end?

They both committed for trial. She got bail.

It means the old Bailey, doesn't it?

The whole shooting match with me as Aunt Sally.

They changed their tune before then. Why?

They've no case. Who said so? I do.

Right now, Peter, that doesn't give me much confidence.

Look, there's your evidence to start with. Then there's the men from the

yard, the recorded conversation.

They even caught him with the money in his hand.

I'll have to appear, won't I?

The law being camera always is.

Anyway, they'll change their mind.

What sort of case have they got?

We've no case at all.

Bloody fine solicitor you are.

Look, I'm only trying to tell you how it would strike a jury.

Agree, Mr. Wheeler?

I certainly do. Now, our best bet is to plead leniency. Look, if you won't fight

this case, somebody else can.

Failing that, we'll do it ourselves.

I don't think that would be a very good idea.

Do you agree, Mr. Martin?

Why not?

Well, I should point out that your stories don't tally. Well, that's only

natural. Frances was upset.

Weren't you, Frances?

Yes, I was upset.

The stories will tally next time, don't worry.

Well, I still suggest we plead leniency.

Leniency implies guilt.

I don't want leniency. I want justice.

Fair enough.

We'll see what counters say. Oh, you'll be defended separately, of course. Why?

It's the law.

Okay. It's all right with me. What about you, Frankie?

I don't care either way.

Darling, lunch is ready.

I'm not hungry. I'll be in for a coffee later on.

You know, I wish you'd never got into all this.

Into what?

This wretched commission.

Well, I know it's a great honor and all that, but it simply isn't worth it if

it's going to ruin your health.

Another week and the worst will be over.

Good, I'm glad.

He attacked me.

Damn near rape.

That's what Oliver says.

He ought to know.

You're a character witness, you know that, Cassius?

Let's have a drink one day, baby.

To my unimpeachable character.

I would like to make a preliminary application.

Your Lordship has read the depositions, so my application will not be

unexpected.

It is that this case should be heard in camera.

Will your Lordship consent?

Upon what grounds, Mr. Attorney?

My Lord,

that such a course would best serve the interests of justice.

Why?

I call the attention of your Lordship to the name of the person from whom it is

alleged the money was extorted.

Your Lordship is acquainted with that name. I am, but I ask for some reason to

support your application.

I thought it spoke for itself.

However, if your lordship desires me to be explicit... He does.

One, the principal witness is a person of eminence who would be greatly damaged

if his identity were revealed.

Two, there can be no moral justification for inflicting such damage.

Three, there are numerous precedents for exercising such discretion.

Four...

To withhold such protection would be to discourage prosecutions for this

offence, and indeed encourage the offence itself.

Is that all, Mr. Attorney?

That is all, my lord.

Naturally, I am sympathetic to this request, but sympathy is not the most

reliable guide.

One must have regard to principles.

It is in the interest of an individual that the case be heard in private.

Yet it is in the interest of the community.

that it be heard in public.

The interests of the public have a prior claim.

Therefore, I'm going to refuse the Attorney General's application to hear

the case in camera.

I've never known it happen before, never.

Perhaps you've never met up with Justice Tree before.

I haven't.

Do you know him?

Clashed with him. He once ran for an appointment in Kenya. I opposed it. He

obviously remembers.

Stop an old bastard.

All in all, not been too lucky, have we?

You still appear as Mr. X.

That's decent of him.

How long was Miss Challoner your secretary?

I don't remember exactly.

Years? Months?

More a matter of weeks.

Four weeks to be precise, I think.

As you say.

And how long was her predecessor with you?

Eleven years.

As long as that.

Tell me, did you ever take Miss Talina out to dinner?

Yes. To restaurants?

Yes. How often?

A few times.

Half a dozen?

Yes. Six times in the course of four weeks. That's once, sometimes twice a

week.

Yes.

What was the purpose of these dinners?

They were usually because I'd kept her working late.

Usually, but not always.

I'm sorry, I don't follow.

It's really quite simple.

You said they were usually because you've been working late. What about the

other times?

There weren't any.

Then why did you say usually?

I don't know.

Perhaps I'm not as good at twisting words as you are.

You're scarcely a novice at public speaking, Mr. X.

That's not word twisting, isn't it?

Ah, well, to continue.

Did Miss Chaloner's arrival coincide with any change in your activities?

No. You didn't become twice as busy overnight or anything like that?

No. Your former secretary was a much older lady, wasn't she?

Not so old. She only left to get married.

How old was she, then?

About 40.

Much older than Miss Chaloner, though.

Obviously. And did you take this former secretary out to dinner half a dozen

times in four weeks?

No. Why not?

Well, the situation didn't arise.

Not in 11 years?

No. Yet you said you haven't become any busier.

That's right.

Must one infer then that Miss Chaloner was less efficient than her predecessor?

Possibly. Yet you retained her in your service.

I wonder why.

Mr. X, let's return for one moment to your former secretary.

During her 11 years with you, how many times did you take her out?

Never. Would you repeat that, please?

A little louder?

Never. Then I must repeat my former question.

What was the purpose of these outings?

Was Miss Challoner your mistress?

No. But you were hoping to make her so?

No, I wasn't. Then what was the purpose?

Well, we must let the jury decide for themselves.

We'll go on to something else.

Do you know, by any chance, where Miss Challoner lives?

Yes, I've been there.

With Miss Challoner?

Of course.

When was this?

One evening.

After one of your so-called dinners?

Yes.

Just the two of you?

Yes, but let me explain.

Explain by all means, Mr. Hill... Mr.

X. Explain why you and your secretary, who you say was not your mistress, went

late at night to her one-room flat.

I had some urgent work.

A thing which hadn't occurred in the previous 11 years?

No. Miss Challoner offered to help.

What was wrong with your office?

Nothing. Her flat was nearer the restaurant where we dined.

And who chose the restaurant?

I did.

So you went to her flat to work?

Yes. How long were you there?

Half an hour.

Only 30 minutes of urgent work.

Hardly worth it, was it? I was tired.

You must get tired very suddenly.

And do you say that nothing took place between you that evening?

I swear it.

You didn't, for example, kiss while you were in the flat?

No. Mr. X, bearing in mind that you are on oath... I'm not likely to forget it.

I'm delighted to hear it.

Have you ever kissed Miss Chaloner?

Yes. Oh, when was this?

One afternoon.

At your office?

Yes, I'd had a rather indulgent lunch.

Obviously, your indulgence didn't stop with the lunch. No wonder you had to

work in meetings.

It had nothing to do with it. Mr. X!

You admit kissing your secretary during working hours at your office, yet in the

next breath you ask us to believe that in the privacy of her flat, after no

doubt an equally indulgent dinner, nothing whatever took place between you?

Yes, I do.

No further questions.

We've done it, Frankie.

The name's not there, but they all know who it is.

Everyone who matters.

I'd wondered who Mr. X was.

Almost asked you once.

The girl was lying, Adele.

Never occurred to me that she wasn't. There was nothing in it, except what I

admitted in court.

You should have told me.

I hope to God you'd never have to know.

Carrying all that on your back, no wonder you looked so ill.

Well, it'll soon be over.

The moment I appeared in court, I was finished.

What do you mean?

There'll be no more House of Commons for me. If your private life doesn't stand

up, what price your public?

But when they find him guilty... Guilty, innocent, it's irrelevant.

The damage is done.

Surely in time... A politician's life is like a boxer's. They never come back.

What are we going to do?

Go abroad till it blows over.

That's virtually admitting everything.

It's the only way.

You hadn't set your heart on Westminster, had you?

Oh, I scarcely thought about it.

You know, I think you could ride this out. You've a lot of good friends.

They're out pretty often when I telephone these days.

Oh, because of some little tramp.

Well, I'm not going into mourning.

You're not?

It'll have its benefits.

Name one.

We'll see more of you.

That's true.

Oliver Marchant.

Yours is a vile example of a vile crime.

I can see nothing that could be put forward in extenuation.

You are a criminal by choice.

What might have been a distinguished army career ended in disgrace when you

were cashiered.

Since then, you've fallen to a much lower level.

I do not inquire about your relationship with the woman Frances Challoner.

All I'm concerned with is this.

You have been convicted.

rightly and properly so, of demanding and obtaining money with menaces.

The community must be protected from you and an example made.

In view of your past record and the character of this offence, I am being

lenient rather than otherwise in sending you to penal servitude for

seven years.

Sure, Jim. See you later, Charlie.

Thanks.

Isn't that Frankie Challoner, the girl acquitted at the trial?

Looks like her.

I don't think so.

You should know.

What's he want, an autograph?

Give us another small one, will you?

You heard what the governor told you.

Cleaned out.

Bought a bloody suit.

Tough.

I'll have the rest at home.

Careless. Come on, Jimbo. Chalk it out. Be a love.

Sorry. It's just till tonight.

Go fetch your money.

It's too far.

You moved?

Moved. Chalked out.

Tough.

Hello, Frankie.

Not drinking?

I just finished one.

What's the matter? Are you broke?

Critically.

That's a shame.

Aren't you going to buy me a drink?

Why don't you come back to my place?

I have a whole bottle full.

Why not?

I've been waiting for...