- 2 days ago
This episode of the classic British thriller series "Thriller" is also known as "Death in Small Doses". Recently widowed Laura Vallance returns home to England after many years living abroad. She knows few people in England, but she desires rest and seclusion in her time of grief. However, she is more alone than she bargained for when she hires Roger Masters as her butler. With small doses of poison, the ruthless butler plans to keeps his wealthy employer incapacitated... permanently. Starring Michael Jayston, Nyree Dawn Porter, Barry Nelsonm Thorley Walters, Janet Key.
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00:00:00To be continued...
00:00:42leaving a position where one has been happy is always sad madam however the
00:00:46splendid references which you've seen fit to sign are at least some
00:00:49consolation I would like to stay I always held the opinion that a man in
00:00:56my position should strive constantly to be extended and I think we would both
00:01:01agree that my work here is finished all that remains is to tidy up
00:01:31so
00:02:02You're a widow on a foreign land, Laura.
00:02:04You need the protection of the American Embassy.
00:02:06You forget I was born here.
00:02:09Ah, yes, but you've lived most of your life abroad.
00:02:10You married an American.
00:02:12You have no friends here in England, no acquaintances.
00:02:14You're a stranger here.
00:02:16Since when did strangers in England need diplomatic shelter?
00:02:18Charming, though, my guardian would be.
00:02:20Oh, not all strangers.
00:02:22Just a beautiful, newly bereaved millionaires.
00:02:24I know George would have wanted me to look after you.
00:02:27After all, he always admitted he was lucky to have seen you six months before I did.
00:02:31You go, dear.
00:02:32There is no one I'd rather be looked after by, if you'll forgive the undiplomatic grammar.
00:02:37But it's really too soon.
00:02:40I came here to get away.
00:02:42Away from Washington.
00:02:44Away from people who knew me from memories.
00:02:46Anything that might remind me.
00:02:48Well, you're going to be lonely.
00:02:53Oh, Hugo.
00:02:55Please don't think I'm not delighted to see you.
00:02:57I am.
00:02:59And I know that later I'll be glad you're here.
00:03:02But just now I want to be among strangers.
00:03:05Anonymous.
00:03:05I want to become...
00:03:09...empty for a while.
00:03:11Does that make sense?
00:03:15Very well.
00:03:16But you do well to remember what they call me in the service.
00:03:19The bulldog hurt.
00:03:21You never let go.
00:03:22It's rather comforting in a way.
00:03:26Excuse me, madam.
00:03:28There's a person in the hall.
00:03:29A Mr. Masters.
00:03:30Says he has an appointment with you.
00:03:32An interview for Butler?
00:03:33Uh, yeah, sure I'm in, Betty.
00:03:35Yeah, well, I'll be on my way.
00:03:36By the way, if this, uh, fella doesn't work out,
00:03:39I'd be a pretty mean hand at butling myself.
00:03:41Mr. Masters, madam.
00:03:43Goodbye, Laura.
00:03:44Think about it.
00:03:45I will.
00:03:52Mr. Roger Masters, madam, at your service.
00:03:55It was noon, you suggested, I think.
00:03:56If you'd care to sit down, Mr. Masters.
00:03:58Thank you, madam.
00:03:58I'm very well as I am.
00:04:01Well, I've looked through the references you sent me.
00:04:04They're most impressive.
00:04:06Tell me, why did you leave your last employer?
00:04:08She went abroad for her health, madam.
00:04:10However, she was kind enough to write down her impressions of me before she left.
00:04:14Yeah, so I see.
00:04:18Look after Mrs. Valance, Betty.
00:04:19She's quite on her own, you know.
00:04:21Oh, I will, sir.
00:04:22Don't you worry about a thing.
00:04:28Your last post was in the country, I see.
00:04:31Will you like it in town?
00:04:33I'm sure I will, madam.
00:04:34I'm quite accustomed to London.
00:04:36Well, I don't intend to maintain a large establishment.
00:04:39If you came, there'd be yourself and the maid, Betty.
00:04:42She also does the cooking and cleaning.
00:04:44The advertisement mentioned just yourself in the household, madam.
00:04:46That is so.
00:04:47Would it be your intention, madam, to have frequent house guests?
00:04:49That would be very far from my intention.
00:04:51A start of two would be perfectly adequate, madam.
00:04:54I want quiet, masters.
00:04:55Peace and quiet.
00:04:57Should we agree, I'll expect you to remember that.
00:04:59I think I can promise to provide that, madam.
00:05:02Is the salary satisfactory?
00:05:04Perfectly, thank you.
00:05:06Very well, the engagement is yours.
00:05:08You may bring your things this evening and start tomorrow, if you wish.
00:05:11I do wish it, thank you.
00:05:14I assure you, you won't live to regret it.
00:05:28You got the job, then?
00:05:30I was appointed to the post of Butler, yes.
00:05:33I saw your references the other day.
00:05:36You move about quite a bit, don't you?
00:05:37Mrs. Vallance found them perfectly satisfactory.
00:05:40I never said she didn't, did I?
00:06:03It went like a dream.
00:06:05We're in.
00:06:05No problems.
00:06:07There's a maid who'll need watching.
00:06:14Thank you, Betty.
00:06:19He's the new butler, is he, then, madam?
00:06:21Yes, I'm sure you'll get on very well with him.
00:06:29He, uh, drives a bit of a flash car for a butler, madam.
00:06:35Well, we all have our little weaknesses, even butlers.
00:06:41Yes, madam.
00:06:45This cigar?
00:06:46No, thanks, Dad.
00:06:48I, uh, I ran into Laura Vallance today.
00:06:52Laura Vallance?
00:06:53Yes.
00:06:53Remember Mrs. Vallance?
00:06:55Laura Vallance.
00:06:56Yes, I mentioned her the other day.
00:06:59Oh, yeah.
00:07:00Washington, wasn't she?
00:07:01Married to that guy in the State Department.
00:07:03That's right, you got it.
00:07:04Just bumped into her, did you?
00:07:05Yes.
00:07:06Yes, her husband died, you know, and she's over here on a kind of a sabbatical to get over it.
00:07:10And that's how you bumped into her?
00:07:12Yes.
00:07:12Yes.
00:07:13She's taking a house near the park.
00:07:15Sensible lady.
00:07:16And where did this collision take place?
00:07:18What?
00:07:18Oh, they did.
00:07:20Yes.
00:07:21I see what you...
00:07:22Uh, well, no, she's, uh, we met over at her house.
00:07:26Rather too big for her, I would have thought.
00:07:29But still, well, you know, she wants seclusion.
00:07:31Pretty shaken up, I suppose.
00:07:33Yes.
00:07:34Yes.
00:07:35Well, I remember what it was like when your mother died.
00:07:38Takes a bit of getting used to.
00:07:39I should think the best thing for her would be to get married again.
00:07:42Well, she was very happy with what's-his-name, wasn't she?
00:07:45Well, that's the point.
00:07:46It's the people that were happy the first time around who have the best chance of making a go of
00:07:50it again.
00:07:51So when's the wedding?
00:07:53What?
00:07:54When are you going to marry Laura Vallance?
00:07:56Well, that's what you were getting around to in about two hours' time, isn't it?
00:07:59Why, you cheeky...
00:08:01I mentioned her the other day.
00:08:03Do you realize exactly how many times you've mentioned her recently?
00:08:07Oh, dear.
00:08:10The house was too big for her, if you ask me.
00:08:14Too big and too quiet.
00:08:16No friends, no relatives.
00:08:18What she wants to do is marry that nice Mr. Hugo and have a life again.
00:08:26This is Madam's study, where she does all the accounts and correspondence and such like.
00:08:30She should have a man to do all that for her.
00:08:33Oh, she has now, Betty.
00:08:34Me.
00:08:35I mean a husband, not a butler.
00:08:37What's in here?
00:08:39Madam's personal papers.
00:08:41Bank things, checkbooks, documents, things like that.
00:08:44They're none of your concern.
00:08:45You've evidently not been in service very long.
00:08:47The whole house and all its problems are the concern of the butler.
00:08:51Is that what it was like at Chevening Manor?
00:08:54What do you know of Chevening Manor?
00:08:57Don't know nothing about it.
00:08:58Just sew it on your references, that's all.
00:09:00Prying into other people's affairs is one of the little habits you're going to have to get out of now
00:09:03I'm in charge.
00:09:30Thank you, Masters.
00:09:31The temperature is perfect.
00:09:32I think we shall get on very well.
00:09:33I shall use my very best endeavours to that end, Madam.
00:09:36You may go.
00:09:37Thank you, Madam.
00:09:38Good night, Madam.
00:09:39Good night, Masters.
00:10:24Thank you, Madam.
00:10:26Oh, my God.
00:11:18Oh, you did give me a turn.
00:11:19What are you doing?
00:11:21No, on the contrary. What are you doing?
00:11:23I've just been upstairs to see if she wanted anything.
00:11:25Well, that's my responsibility now.
00:11:27Kindly remember your station.
00:11:28My station?
00:11:30Where do you think you are? Bleak house?
00:11:32Queen Victoria's dead, you know.
00:11:33Anyway, what were you doing in there?
00:11:36I was checking the doors and windows.
00:11:37The security of the house is my concern.
00:11:40The security of the house.
00:11:41Creeping about like Frankenstein.
00:11:43It's enough to give a girl curly hair.
00:11:45What are you doing in there?
00:11:52What's wrong?
00:11:55I'm not hardly looking at.
00:11:57What are you doing in there?
00:12:10What are you doing in here?
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00:13:51Come in Betty.
00:13:54Betty this is most distressing and I hope you don't...
00:13:57Forgive me madam I know how embarrassing these matters can be.
00:14:00The fact is that a valuable ring is missing from Mrs Valence's jewel case.
00:14:04What?
00:14:05It was there when Mrs Valence went to sleep last night. It is not there now.
00:14:08Since there are only the two of us in the house.
00:14:10Excuse me madam that will be the police.
00:14:12The police? I didn't tell you to send for the police.
00:14:14I'm sorry madam but I am at a disadvantage in this matter.
00:14:17I am the newcomer and I therefore felt it essential in my own interests
00:14:21that the matter be investigated in the proper manner.
00:14:23It really was not necessary to say.
00:14:30Madam I swear...
00:14:42It's absolutely horrible.
00:14:44There are police all over the house.
00:14:46A maid is miserable.
00:14:48I should never have let it get this far.
00:14:50Well it's a rotten thing to have happened but
00:14:52after all you had Betty what two weeks?
00:14:54Masters arrived just yesterday.
00:14:56It's best to get it straightened out.
00:14:57Oh Hugo I'm so glad you're here.
00:15:00I don't think I could have cooked by myself.
00:15:02Well I thought I'd just drop by on my way to the madhouse
00:15:05see if you care to have lunch with me.
00:15:09I think we've got it sorted out Mrs. Vallance.
00:15:12Is that the ring?
00:15:13Yes.
00:15:15Yes that's the one.
00:15:17Where did you find it?
00:15:19I dropped it somewhere not realized.
00:15:21No madam you hadn't dropped it.
00:15:22Not in that sense.
00:15:23We found it in your maid's bedroom.
00:15:25Roll up in a pair of tights.
00:15:27But she couldn't.
00:15:29But she wouldn't.
00:15:31In any case she's far too sensible.
00:15:33She must have known I'd miss it.
00:15:34You'd be surprised madam how careless lots of ladies are with their jewelry.
00:15:38They don't know whether it's on their hand or their...
00:15:40Well these girls know that they trade on it.
00:15:43Do you wish us to prefer charges Mrs. Vallance?
00:15:46No no no no no good heavens no um.
00:15:49Oh Hugo please will you deal with it.
00:15:51I just couldn't face her.
00:15:54Tell masters to give her the customary amount in lieu of notice and
00:15:58oh deal with it in any way you like.
00:15:59Tell her I'm sorry.
00:16:20Please don't distress yourself madam.
00:16:22You did the only thing you could.
00:16:23Seems such a straightforward person.
00:16:25She probably has a record of such thefts.
00:16:27The girl was lucky not to find herself prosecuted.
00:16:30That makes me a bit nervous about finding a replacement.
00:16:33Might I suggest madam that you leave it to me.
00:16:35I'm confident of finding a suitable person.
00:16:38Yes.
00:16:40Yes of course masters.
00:16:42Why don't you do that?
00:16:43I'll leave it in your hands.
00:16:44Very good madam.
00:16:45Will madam be at home for lunch?
00:16:47No no I shall be lunching out with Mr. Fane.
00:16:49I've also asked him to dine here the day after tomorrow.
00:16:52So if you could arrange something before then.
00:16:53Of course madam.
00:16:54Will that be all madam?
00:16:55Yes thank you masters.
00:17:27You're a genius.
00:17:28These are the best oeuf uncakat I've had since Brussels.
00:17:32Where'd you find it?
00:17:33I didn't.
00:17:34Masters did it.
00:17:35You know he really is turning out to be quite a prize.
00:17:38No chance for me to do my stuff then huh?
00:17:41Hugo.
00:17:42Beautiful.
00:17:45My compliments to the chef.
00:17:49But one vital ingredient missing.
00:17:51At the moment.
00:17:53The creamed spinach.
00:17:55I got that out of her when we discussed the menu.
00:17:58She adores spinach.
00:17:59But he never touches it.
00:18:01Wise man.
00:18:13Trolley.
00:18:40Well congratulations masters.
00:18:42Where did you dig up this goddess of the kitchen?
00:18:44We've worked together before sir.
00:18:46I remembered her and she happened to be free.
00:18:47I can't think why.
00:18:49If it weren't you my dear I'd steal her away myself tomorrow.
00:18:52A little more spinach madam.
00:18:54Yes.
00:18:54Yes I believe I will.
00:19:25Oh
00:19:37Madam?
00:19:38I don't feel very well master.
00:19:40Oh dear I'm sorry to hear that madam.
00:19:42I shan't be down to breakfast.
00:19:44I know how richly these little upsets can make one feel.
00:19:47Might I suggest madam that you return to bed
00:19:49and I'll instruct Lisa to prepare something simple.
00:19:51I'll bring up the mail and the household checks for you to sign later.
00:19:55I think that's a very good idea.
00:19:56I really do feel most odd.
00:19:58Just some coffee and a little dry toast
00:20:01and oh please telephone Mr Fane
00:20:03and ask him if we could meet at one o'clock rather than noon.
00:20:06Very good madam.
00:20:18That's enough.
00:20:20We don't want to kill her do we?
00:20:35May I take the train?
00:20:39Forgive me madam but I really don't think you should be up.
00:20:41I must make an effort.
00:20:42Mr Fane is expecting me.
00:20:45Did you give him my message?
00:20:46I hope you won't be offended madam
00:20:47and I took the liberty of cancelling your appointment with Mr Fane.
00:20:51I really didn't think you'd be well enough to go
00:20:53and I informed Mr Fane accordingly.
00:20:56I think you're right.
00:20:58It was very thoughtful of you master.
00:21:00It's probably gastric flu.
00:21:01It's very prevalent at the moment.
00:21:03If I might venture
00:21:03the only way to deal with it is to retire to bed
00:21:06and to remain there for a day.
00:21:07I've always found it works wonders.
00:21:09I believe you're right again master.
00:21:11I'm always recommending it to other people
00:21:13always reluctant to do it myself.
00:21:15If you'll permit me.
00:21:16No no really really I'm perfectly all right.
00:21:23Here we are madam.
00:21:25I'm being spoiled outrageously.
00:21:27I hope you'll feel better soon madam.
00:21:29That will be all Lisa.
00:21:48I hope you'll feel better.
00:22:04I hope you'll feel better soon.
00:22:14Gin.
00:22:16That is the sixth time in a row. I know you're cheating but I can't spot how.
00:22:24Just about on schedule.
00:22:29Well go on then.
00:22:31Take it easy. It'd never do to show her I was expecting it would it?
00:22:36I should be in bed and pass to sleep shouldn't I?
00:22:44Mint.
00:22:56Mr. Roger Master is reporting for duty.
00:23:18I'm sorry madam I sleep like the dead. Have you been ringing long?
00:23:20I'm sorry I didn't wish to disturb you masters but I really believe I'm quite ill.
00:23:25I think I better have a doctor.
00:23:26Certainly madam I know an excellent man.
00:23:28No no no. Mr. Fane left an embassy list.
00:23:31It's in my dress book on the dressing table. There's a doctor's number in there.
00:23:35Of course madam.
00:23:37Oh.
00:24:07I'm sorry to ring you at this late hour. I'm speaking with Mrs. Laura Valens.
00:24:10A friend of Mr. Hugo Fane.
00:24:13Could I speak to Dr. Eastor please?
00:24:17I see.
00:24:20Yes I see.
00:24:22When will he?
00:24:24Not till then.
00:24:27Oh thank you. My apologies again for disturbing you.
00:24:30I'm sorry madam. Apparently Dr. Eastor is aware at a medical convention in Bermuda.
00:24:34He'll not be back for two weeks.
00:24:35Oh no.
00:24:36However as I say I do know an excellent man used by a number of my previous employers.
00:24:40He's a most conscientious doctor.
00:24:41I'm sure you'll be in good hands.
00:24:43May I fetch him?
00:24:44Oh yes yes please do.
00:24:45Certainly madam.
00:24:46His number's downstairs.
00:24:47I'll telephone him immediately.
00:24:49Yes it's a virus infection Mrs. Valens.
00:24:51I know that sounds alarming but it's not.
00:24:53It's very minor.
00:24:55The symptoms are distressing I know.
00:24:57But his bark is worse than his bite if you understand me.
00:25:00I'm sorry to be in so much trouble.
00:25:01Not at all not at all.
00:25:02I wish all my patients were sensible.
00:25:04Hit small things early and they don't benefit the big things.
00:25:07That's what I always say.
00:25:08How long will I be?
00:25:09What in bed?
00:25:10Depends on you largely.
00:25:11If you're a sensible girl do as you're told.
00:25:14Take your medicine.
00:25:16Four or five days.
00:25:18Five days?
00:25:18Well it could be much longer if you don't behave yourself.
00:25:21Now then.
00:25:23I've written out some prescriptions there but I'm leaving with your chap.
00:25:26And I'm relying on him to see that you play the game.
00:25:30So.
00:25:31When I'm not here.
00:25:32He is as it were in loco parentis for me.
00:25:35You understand?
00:25:36And I'm telling him you need lots of rest and lots of quiet.
00:25:39And he's to see that you get him.
00:25:40All right?
00:25:41Yes doctor.
00:25:41Good.
00:25:42Now take these and I'll help you to sleep.
00:25:45Here we are.
00:25:47All right.
00:25:52Good.
00:25:53Good.
00:25:54Fine.
00:25:55Well that's it then.
00:25:57There we are.
00:25:59Now then.
00:26:00Yes.
00:26:00Oh yes.
00:26:01And remember.
00:26:01Your butler is the boss.
00:26:04I will remember.
00:26:05Right.
00:26:16Same as last time I suppose.
00:26:19It's impossible to detect and gradually in the way that it hits them.
00:26:22It's the only stuff.
00:26:23As for tonight there'll be more later as usual.
00:26:25Well there was a time you know.
00:26:26Yeah.
00:26:27That's before you got struck off.
00:26:29Come off it Ledworth.
00:26:30You haven't lived so well for years.
00:26:32And try and stay at least one quarter sober would you?
00:26:35I may want you again.
00:26:36Now don't you push me around.
00:26:38You need me.
00:26:40I own you.
00:26:42Don't forget that Ledworth.
00:26:43I picked you up out of your own filth.
00:26:45Dusted you off and made you useful again.
00:26:48Money.
00:26:48The clothes you stand in.
00:26:50The liquor you pour down your gullet.
00:26:51They're there by the grace of me.
00:26:53I even put a roof over your head.
00:26:55Or perhaps you'd like to go back where I found you eh Ledworth.
00:26:58The alcoholic ward.
00:27:00All right.
00:27:00Well I don't.
00:27:01I didn't mean anything.
00:27:03I can't do what you say.
00:27:04Of course you will.
00:27:09Of course you will.
00:27:13Now get back to the house.
00:27:24What's the matter with him?
00:27:26I think it's the time of night when bent doctors remember the Hippocratic Oath.
00:27:34good morning madam I trust you slept well oh yes thank you I'm very thirsty breakfast will
00:27:39be up in five minutes madam what are you doing doctor letter was prescribed complete rest and
00:27:45quiet madam no telephone call I don't think that's necessary he warned me you might be a
00:27:48difficult patient madam I'm afraid I shall have to be quite heartless
00:27:55what do you mean no telephone calls the doctor was quite explicit sir
00:27:59he said no telephone calls and no visits he said it was most important that mrs. Valens had complete
00:28:04rest what's the matter with it did he say he said it was a virus not serious but it could
00:28:10become so
00:28:10if mrs. Valens did not observe his routine
00:28:37oh dr. Easton Hugo Fane uh doctor this is going to sound rather odd but uh has a mrs. Laura
00:28:44Valens
00:28:44consulted you and if so and just completely in confidence of course what the devil's wrong with
00:28:48her she hasn't consulted you no no no nothing at all thank you doctor I'm hungry masters you hardly
00:29:02gave me any breakfast either I'm sorry madam doctor's orders you know what they say feed a cold and starve
00:29:07a fever is that what I've got a fever I'm afraid I know nothing about the art of medicine madam
00:29:11I do
00:29:12have a great respect for medical men dr. Lederworth says it's for your own good oh did mr. Fane telephone
00:29:18this morning no madam I see thank you
00:29:34I don't see there's anything odd about it at all dad well I recommended our own doctor to her now
00:29:40she's gone
00:29:41gotten herself ill she's called in somebody else woman's privilege she decided not to take your advice
00:29:48maybe that's what you're sore about is it I mean after all she couldn't choose her own doctor without
00:29:53starting a congressional debate yeah I suppose you're right uh can I borrow your car tonight
00:30:00hmm yes
00:30:07hey what's wrong with your own
00:30:19hmm
00:30:23hmm
00:30:24hmm
00:30:29hmm
00:30:31hmm
00:30:32hmm
00:30:48is this all?
00:30:50I'm afraid so madam
00:30:57I'm starving
00:30:58I've had hardly anything to eat for the past two days
00:31:02I think that's why I'm feeling so weak
00:31:04I'm sorry madam but I'm only following the doctor's instructions
00:31:07I'm sure it's doing you good
00:31:09I'm sorry sir I'd be wrong to disobey the doctor's and madam's instructions
00:31:14the treatment requires complete rest and no visitors
00:31:16who's looking after?
00:31:17he's an American doctor sir
00:31:19he's a friend of madam's who happened to be over here
00:31:21well where can I get in touch with him?
00:31:23I'm afraid I don't know sir
00:31:24mrs. Vallance called him herself
00:31:26he seems very strict
00:31:27thank you
00:31:28there we are madam
00:31:29that's the latter
00:31:33why is mr. Fain called?
00:31:34no I'm afraid not madam
00:31:37will that be all madam?
00:31:38yes
00:31:44Hugo
00:31:46all seems very unnecessarily complicated to me
00:31:49Hugo
00:31:54just tell mrs. Vallance I called
00:31:56certainly sir
00:31:57goodbye sir
00:32:10I'm sorry madam I was unable to get away at once
00:32:13was that mr. Fain?
00:32:14yes it was madam
00:32:15I asked him if he'd like to come up but he said he'd spoken to dr. Ledworth and the doctor
00:32:18had advised against it
00:32:20he came to say goodbye madam
00:32:22goodbye?
00:32:23mr. Fain has been posted back to Washington madam
00:32:25his plane leaves at noon he called here on his way to the airport
00:32:27oh no
00:32:30oh Hugo
00:32:32it's not like Laura
00:32:33it's not like Laura
00:32:34to be so uncommunicative I mean
00:32:37well she is ill
00:32:39well that's true
00:32:40but what does it take to pick up a telephone?
00:32:42that's what worries me
00:32:43you know I'm beginning to think she's not just ill she's very ill
00:32:45I wouldn't worry too much if I were you
00:32:47you say a butler's a pretty confident man
00:32:50he seems to have a grip on things
00:32:53yes he does indeed
00:32:57you see my notes anyway
00:32:59notes?
00:33:00yes for this broadcast of mine tomorrow
00:33:02pretty sensitive subject isn't it?
00:33:05Arab nationalism
00:33:05well somebody's ought to speak out
00:33:09I thought they were supposed to be live
00:33:12and unscripted
00:33:13get it
00:33:14it is
00:33:1520 years in the embassy have taught me that a few notes never want to miss
00:33:43madam what are you doing out of bed?
00:33:45you shouldn't
00:33:46you really shouldn't
00:33:47so I have discovered
00:33:49here let me help you back
00:33:50yes thank you
00:33:54may I know
00:33:55there we are
00:33:57I don't know what Dr Ledworth would say I'm sure
00:33:59supposing you got out on the landing and fallen down the stairs
00:34:02I wouldn't have done that
00:34:03I dare say not madam but where would I have been if you had?
00:34:06I was worried about disturbing you but now I'm glad I did
00:34:09oh it's simply some household checks for you to sign madam
00:34:12I'm sorry to trouble you but they have to be attended to
00:34:14yeah
00:34:15if you'd be so kind
00:34:31thank you madam
00:34:35I don't mind telling you you alarmed me just now madam
00:34:39I can see you're not to be trusted
00:34:41I can see
00:34:43I shall have to take precautions
00:34:45or Dr Ledworth will have my hide
00:34:48there now that's better isn't it?
00:34:49keep the light out of your eyes
00:34:50I don't want that
00:34:52try and get some sleep now
00:34:53what time is it?
00:34:54what day is this?
00:35:02she's a tough girl
00:35:03she's had enough of the stuff to knock her sideways but she keeps fighting back
00:35:07more?
00:35:08not yet
00:35:09won't be long now she's beginning to lose touch
00:35:24nothing
00:35:39no
00:35:43no
00:35:45no
00:35:46no
00:35:46no
00:35:53Mr. Hugo Fain.
00:35:56Mr. Hugo Fain has joined us in the studio for our live discussion on Arab nationalism.
00:36:02As former first secretary for many years in both Beirut and Cairo,
00:36:07Mr. Fain is uniquely qualified to discuss Arab aspirations.
00:36:12Mr. Fain?
00:36:13Mr. Fain? Yes, well, I've come along here this afternoon to...
00:36:19Mr. Hugo, you haven't gone away.
00:36:45Mr. Hugo, my throat... I'm choking.
00:36:47Mr. Walter, please, quickly.
00:36:51Mr. Hugo.
00:36:54Mr. Hugo.
00:37:23Please answer. Please answer.
00:37:28This is Laura Valens.
00:37:31Please don't interrupt. Tell Mr. Fane.
00:37:36Hello?
00:37:40This won't do madam.
00:37:42This really won't do at all.
00:37:44You're not helping yourself you know.
00:37:46This is exactly what you shouldn't be doing.
00:37:49You said Mr. Fane had gone away.
00:37:52And so he has madam.
00:37:53No I heard him on the radio.
00:37:56It was probably recorded madam before he went away.
00:37:58No it was live. They said it was live.
00:38:01And madam probably imagined it was live knowing the voice.
00:38:04You're in a very weak state you know.
00:38:06It's easy for one's mind to play tricks.
00:38:07There's nothing wrong with my mind.
00:38:08I want another doctor.
00:38:10The second opinion.
00:38:11I'll speak to Dr. Ledworth madam.
00:38:13He'll be very hurt I'm sure but nevertheless if it's what you wish I will do so.
00:38:16Yes.
00:38:17Now I suggest you settle down and conserve your energy.
00:38:20You've only to ring if you need me.
00:38:34No food at all today.
00:38:36But the milk's got the stuff in it.
00:38:38Starvation is what she needs now.
00:38:40Hunger's a great little spirit breaker.
00:38:44What did she actually say?
00:38:46That's what she said.
00:38:47That's all she said.
00:38:48Tell Mr. Fane.
00:38:50Then she hung up.
00:38:51Does she sound all right?
00:38:53No.
00:38:54Sound a bit odd.
00:38:56Very odd in fact.
00:38:58And she said nothing more.
00:39:00Not a thing.
00:39:03Look I thought I'd better just hang on and tell you in person.
00:39:05But now I've really got to go.
00:39:07You won't forget I'm staying in Oxford overnight will you?
00:39:09No sorry I'll remember.
00:39:11Fine.
00:39:11Bye.
00:39:32Mrs. Valance's residence?
00:39:35Oh yes sir.
00:39:38Yes she did phone you.
00:39:40Completely against doctor's orders.
00:39:42And then she had a little fainting fit.
00:39:44Just what the doctor said might happen if she overexerted herself.
00:39:48She just wanted to tell you she was all right sir.
00:39:50And to apologise for not being in touch.
00:39:54She's asleep now sir.
00:39:56I wouldn't wish to disturb her.
00:39:58But I'll certainly tell her you called.
00:40:01Thank you sir.
00:40:02Goodbye sir.
00:40:06I'm sorry.
00:40:10I'm sorry okay.
00:40:10No.
00:40:28I'm sorry.
00:40:29Oh no.
00:40:31I'm sorry I'm sorry.
00:40:34What's wrong?
00:40:34You came here?
00:40:36And now we'll have to go.
00:40:58Now, look, I had enough of your interference.
00:41:00Get out of my way.
00:41:21They made me prisoner, they took the phone away, they were starving me.
00:41:25It's all right, it's all right now.
00:41:27They told me you'd gone away.
00:41:28I haven't gone away, have I?
00:41:30I'm here to look after you.
00:41:32Just sit down a minute.
00:41:34Yes.
00:41:36You need a doctor.
00:41:38Yes.
00:41:39And we both need the police.
00:41:48No!
00:42:00No!
00:42:01No!
00:42:02No!
00:42:14No!
00:42:16No!
00:42:16No!
00:42:25No!
00:42:27No!
00:42:28No!
00:42:38No!
00:42:40No!
00:42:49Come on, Lisa.
00:43:17Come on.
00:44:01Come on.
00:44:04Come on.
00:44:06It's all right.
00:44:08A miscalculation.
00:44:11Another few days and it'll be over.
00:44:13We'll be out of here and on our way.
00:44:16Just another few days.
00:44:19I'm going to have to leave you for a while.
00:44:21I'll be all right.
00:44:22Of course you will.
00:44:25Because you trust me, don't you?
00:44:29Completely trust me.
00:44:33Don't open the door to anyone.
00:44:41No loose ends.
00:44:43I'll be right back.
00:44:45I'll be right back.
00:45:11All right.
00:45:17I'll be right back.
00:45:18Hello.
00:45:18Jeremy?
00:45:19Pierce.
00:45:20You don't have my old man with you, do you?
00:45:23Well, it's just that he didn't sleep here last night.
00:45:26No wonder.
00:45:27Don't be disgusting.
00:45:29Fine.
00:45:31Thanks.
00:45:55Hello, Peter?
00:45:57Pierce.
00:45:59Look, I don't want to be an alarmist or anything, but Hugo seems to be missing.
00:46:05Yeah.
00:46:05I mean, I know it's nothing, but, well, he was pretty outspoken about Arab affairs yesterday.
00:46:23It's getting to be a habit, sir, isn't it?
00:46:25Funny the way it happens.
00:46:26I've not had an inquiry on this patch for over a year, and suddenly I'm in and out like the
00:46:29tide.
00:46:29What is it this time?
00:46:30Just a few routine inquiries, sir.
00:46:32Oh, certainly, Sergeant.
00:46:33Please do come in.
00:46:40Going away, are you?
00:46:42My employer's been rather ill.
00:46:44She's gone to Bermuda to recuperate.
00:46:45I am to follow.
00:46:54This is the life, eh, Constable?
00:46:56Butler?
00:46:57Nothing but the best.
00:47:00Best houses.
00:47:02Best food.
00:47:05Of course you are a servant.
00:47:08But then so am I.
00:47:10Servant to the public on tap, day and night.
00:47:14I'm inquiring about a Mr. Fane.
00:47:18Mr. Hugo Fane.
00:47:21He's not in his usual haunts.
00:47:23We heard he might have called here last night.
00:47:25Mr. Fane, yes, he did call here last night.
00:47:27He's a friend of Mrs. Vallance.
00:47:29I told him he just missed her.
00:47:31He was very disappointed.
00:47:37Somebody...
00:47:37Please help me.
00:47:41Please help me.
00:47:44Please help me.
00:47:56Please help me.
00:47:56Please help me.
00:47:57Please help me.
00:47:57Please help me.
00:48:05Please help me.
00:48:05And then Mr. Fane got into his car and drove away.
00:48:07He didn't say where he was going, did he, sir?
00:48:10No, I'm afraid not, Sergeant.
00:48:12Oh, thank you kindly, sir.
00:48:14Oh, thank you.
00:48:15See that, Constable?
00:48:16That's what I call the perfect butler.
00:48:19Smart, too.
00:48:20Look at those buttons, almost regimental.
00:48:36He didn't say anything about anyone following him.
00:48:38Nothing like that, sir.
00:48:39He did seem a little strained but no, he said nothing like that.
00:48:45Alright, sir. Thank you very much.
00:48:47Sorry to have bothered you.
00:48:48Not at all.
00:49:07Did your father get any other strange calls after the broadcast, sir?
00:49:10No, Mrs. Valance was the only one.
00:49:13Well, that one seems to be a dead end with her going away and all.
00:49:17Maybe that's what she was calling to say.
00:49:20Well, why should she hang up so suddenly?
00:49:23Who knows, with women, sir.
00:49:26I'm simply asking you to be sensible, madam.
00:49:28A little business before lunch.
00:49:29I'm not signing any will.
00:49:32I wouldn't dream of asking you to, madam.
00:49:35It's not a will, it's a simple power of attorney.
00:49:36With you like this, someone has to look after your affairs.
00:49:40Sign this and I will be able to do so.
00:49:41I'd be signing my death warrant.
00:49:44Madam is being fanciful.
00:49:47Perhaps we'd better leave you to think it over.
00:49:49My lunch.
00:49:51I need food.
00:49:52You're starving me.
00:49:53All in good time, madam.
00:49:55I don't think you're well enough to eat anything at the moment.
00:49:58We'll see how you feel a bit later.
00:50:00Please.
00:50:02Please.
00:50:05Please.
00:50:07Please.
00:50:14Rog.
00:50:16I wish you wouldn't go.
00:50:17I've told you!
00:50:18I've got to clear up one or two things down at the manor before we leave.
00:50:21We're leaving the manor as well?
00:50:24This shelf's got a bit too hot.
00:50:26Just pick up sticks and clear off when we get that signature.
00:50:29When we get it?
00:50:31Another 24 hours without food and she'll sign her life away for a dog biscuit.
00:50:34You really enjoy all this, don't you?
00:50:38No, it's purely business.
00:50:40Now you play it cool and don't go near her no matter how much she rings. Got it?
00:50:44Yes.
00:50:47I'll be back this evening.
00:51:10Oh, no.
00:51:12I'm afraid so-so. In a wood in Somerset.
00:51:16In the boot of his car he'd been stabbed.
00:51:19I've just heard from the county police they think it could be political.
00:51:23Obviously nothing to do with Mrs. Valance.
00:51:25Uh, yeah, I suppose you're right.
00:51:29I just can't help thinking...
00:51:33No, I guess not.
00:51:36Uh, yeah, yes I will.
00:51:38Thank you, Sergeant.
00:51:55Thank you, Captain, for coming.
00:51:56Thank you, Captain Martin.
00:51:56Thank you, Captain.
00:51:56Thank you, Captain.
00:51:59Thank you, Captain.
00:52:35I
00:52:36I walked straight in here. The front door was open and I walked straight in here.
00:52:41All you have to do is stay here, sit tight and make sure no one comes snooping and I walk
00:52:45straight in here!
00:52:46I must have forgotten...
00:52:48You are drunk!
00:52:51All those advantages.
00:52:54A good family, the right education, a medical degree and you just fritter them away.
00:53:00Do you know how I was educated, Ledworth? Here and there and not very often.
00:53:03My father was an underporter. He blacked people's boots.
00:53:08He lived for 66 years and all that time all he ever did was black other people's boots.
00:53:14While my mother helped out in the kitchens.
00:53:17That's my heritage, Ledworth. Not like yours.
00:53:21Good start. Solid background in the upper bracket.
00:53:25And yet, look at you now.
00:53:29And look at me.
00:53:35Fetch me a drink, Ledworth.
00:53:37A drink?
00:53:38Scotch! With ice!
00:53:40In a crystal glass. On a silver tray.
00:53:43Well go on, Ledworth, obey your orders!
00:53:44I do nothing.
00:53:47I'm a little bit, a little bit.
00:53:57You're a little bit, a little bit.
00:53:58Oh, that's ready!
00:53:59I'm gonna go on, Ledworth...
00:53:59Let's go.
00:53:59I'm gonna go on, Ledworth.
00:53:59With ice.
00:54:00With ice.
00:54:00With ice.
00:54:00With ice.
00:54:02With ice.
00:54:30Here it was.
00:54:35No no you're doing it all wrong Ledworth. You're catching my eye.
00:54:39Never look directly into the master's eye.
00:54:42Deferential Ledworth deferential.
00:54:44Otherwise the master might think you were getting above your station.
00:54:47Might think you were regarding yourself as an equal.
00:54:52No stay where you are.
00:54:57I swear I'll drop you one day. You shot me!
00:55:01No you wouldn't do that.
00:55:03Bring me down and you go down too.
00:55:07Besides you know I'd kill you don't you?
00:55:10Anyway you won't have to put up with me for much longer.
00:55:13What?
00:55:14The valance woman close to the kill now.
00:55:17Then I think Lisa and me will take a little holiday on the Riviera.
00:55:21Relax a bit catch our breath and then when we're both nicely rested
00:55:26well there's rich pickings on the Riviera Ledworth.
00:55:29People crying out for an exemplary butler.
00:55:31What about me?
00:55:32What about you?
00:55:33Well you can't do it alone.
00:55:34You need me a doctor.
00:55:36I expect there's a French equivalent to you Ledworth.
00:55:38The gutters of the world are filled with Ledworth's.
00:55:41Oh no you couldn't you couldn't leave me behind here.
00:55:44No you're right I couldn't.
00:55:47Slip out from under my thumb and you'd go to pieces.
00:55:50Start talking.
00:55:51Just have to think of a happy solution won't I?
00:55:54To stop you talking.
00:56:07Just my little joke Ledworth.
00:56:09Just to show you how easy it could be.
00:56:12You behave yourself and I'll look after you.
00:56:16And behaving yourself means keep the front door locked.
00:56:20Your nose clean and pacing your drinking.
00:56:27I wouldn't leave you behind Ledworth.
00:56:29I like looking at you.
00:56:31You're the mirror of my success.
00:56:34Oh!
00:56:34Oh!
00:57:16oh I'm ever so sorry I didn't know how could you mr. Fane was very nice to me
00:57:24the times I saw him oh dear please sit down
00:57:30what did you want to see my father about
00:57:33well it's not your problem really if you thought my father could help maybe I can
00:57:38too well it was about mrs. Valance really what about mrs. Valance perhaps another
00:57:43time please what about mrs. Valance well well it was about me being sacked for
00:57:51stealing the ring well I didn't do it and was only me and him there the butler I
00:57:56mean so I knew he must have arranged it you know tried to get rid of me to get
00:57:59me the sack why should he want to do that well that's what I asked myself so I
00:58:03went down to the village where his last job was achieving manor I saw it on his
00:58:07references yeah so you went there well I didn't get any joy at the house just an
00:58:10old doctor living there doctor that's what the locals told me at least he used to be
00:58:15a doctor struck off a drunk but that isn't all they told me you see it seems
00:58:20there was a maid living there too when masters arrived and one day some silver
00:58:23went missing and they found it in her room so she was sacked what was the name of his
00:58:27employer there oh that's no good she went abroad what she was ill for a long
00:58:33time didn't see anyone then she went abroad to recuperate well the village
00:58:36people say she must have left him into our to the manor they see him down there
00:58:40sometimes right call sergeant Rayner tell him to get around to mrs. Valance's
00:58:43right away which police station rot I'm detective constable Kane rochester row
00:59:04sergeant rayner about here I'm here sergeant rayner isn't here if you'd like to come back later when
00:59:14mr. masters the butler's here I'm sure he that's funny the serge said he'd meet me
00:59:18he said he was coming to collect his notebook thinks he left it in your kitchen this morning
00:59:24it's mrs. Valance about no she's gone away we told your sergeant this morning of course you're right
00:59:32he told me well if the serge isn't going to show up perhaps I'd better collect his notebook for him
00:59:38which way's kitchen it's all right I'll go and look for it you stay here thank you very much miss
00:59:51nice
01:00:15Mrs. Valens.
01:00:21Poison in food, then starving as signature.
01:00:26It's over. You're getting out of here.
01:00:28Can you stand?
01:00:30I don't know.
01:00:32No.
01:00:57I don't know.
01:01:20There's a policeman in the house.
01:01:22Where is he?
01:01:23I don't know. I left him there. He said he was looking for Sergeant Rayner.
01:01:28That's him. That's the man.
01:01:32Piers Fane. How nice.
01:01:35The house is about to burn down and your charred remains are going to be mistaken for mine.
01:01:39The gallant butler burned to a crisp trying to save his mistress.
01:01:42Pity, really. You and your father. You did have style.
01:01:48Roger.
01:01:49Oh, but it will, sir.
01:01:51Fire is your great leveller.
01:01:53Makes no distinction between master and bondman.
01:01:56Roger, we can't.
01:01:57Text the Alacanzas. Shut up.
01:02:15Text the Alacanzas.
01:02:15Pi inール
01:02:19Text the Alacanzas.
01:02:21Text the Alacanzas.
01:02:21Vi's not working on another.
01:02:21zehn junto files.
01:02:21The man is working on another.
01:02:21Text the Alacanzas.
01:02:21No, it is working on another period.
01:02:42come on lisa roger it reminds me i should have to find a new name goodbye it's been fun
01:02:54oh good evening sir
01:02:58going out will you i don't know i despair of the public sometimes we keep telling them before you
01:03:04go out make sure you left no lighted candles burning down into pools of paraffin take care of it constable
01:03:13in the bedroom are they sir
01:03:22what they found this button in mr fane's hand sir
01:03:27i remember admiring it when we had our little chat funny you're not noticing a thing like that sir
01:03:33you being the perfect butler and all
01:03:40so
01:03:51so
01:03:54so
01:03:57so
01:04:02so
01:04:03so
01:04:07so
01:04:10so
01:04:12so
01:04:14so
01:04:16so
01:04:20so
01:04:23so
01:04:26so
01:04:32so
01:04:39so
01:04:46so
01:04:53so
01:05:01so
01:05:06so
01:05:10so
01:05:15so
01:05:19so
01:05:27so
01:05:31so
01:05:36so
01:05:41so
01:05:46so
01:05:52so
01:05:59so
01:06:12so
01:06:14so
01:06:15so
01:06:16so
01:06:17so
01:06:18so
01:06:31so
01:06:33your applied
01:06:33the splendid references which Other than that you have seen fit to sign are at least some
01:06:35consolation
01:06:38I would like to stay
01:06:40but I always held the opinion that a man in my position should strive constantly to be extended
01:06:46and I think we will both agree that my work here is finished
01:06:50all that remains is to tidy up
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