Baldi - BBC 00-01-10 (01) The Prodigal Son

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio Episode: Baldi - BBC 00-01-10 (01) The Prodigal Son
Release Date: March 14, 2025
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Duration: Approximately 33 minutes

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Introduction

Baldi - BBC 00-01-10 (01) The Prodigal Son immerses listeners in a gripping murder mystery set within the tight-knit community surrounding Gianni Parletti's chip shop on Woodbine Road. This episode skillfully blends elements of classic detective tales with the nuanced dynamics of family betrayal and hidden secrets. The protagonist, Dr. Paolo Baldi, a philosophy professor, becomes entwined in unraveling the truth behind the violent assault that disrupts the Parletti family's delicate balance.

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Plot Overview

The Crime

The episode opens with the revelation that Gianni Parletti, the patriarch of the Parletti family and owner of the beloved local chip shop, was brutally attacked and robbed. The assailant struck him with a snooker cue, leaving Gianni unconscious and the shop's till disturbed. Detective Inspector Mahan, portrayed by David Threlfall, arrives on the scene to investigate the incident.

Notable Quote:

• Gianni Parletti: "I was working in the shop. I come out to the front to lock up and this guy hits me." [05:36]

Introducing Dr. Paolo Baldi

Detective Inspector Mahan seeks the assistance of Dr. Paolo Baldi, a philosophy professor with expertise in semiotics, to translate Gianni's lapsed Italian statements during his distress. Dr. Baldi, voiced by David Threlfall, is portrayed as an intellectual with a keen eye for detail, yet initially unaware of the deeper familial tensions at play.

Notable Quote:

• Detective Inspector Mahan: "I trust it won't distract from your valuable work." [02:07]
• Paolo Baldi: "I live 50 years here. Barlow. English perfectly." [05:26]

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Key Discussions and Insights

Family Dynamics and Hidden Tensions

As Dr. Baldi delves deeper into the case, he uncovers strained relationships within the Parletti family. Remigio Parletti, the prodigal son, emerges as a central figure who has recently returned after years abroad. His reintegration is marred by past grievances and lingering resentment, particularly concerning the family's savings ("risparmi").

Notable Quote:

• Monica: "We didn't come home early because we were worried about it being rough around here... We came back because I was worried about Remigio." [12:36]

Detective Inspector Mahan's Theories

Mahan initially presents a straightforward theory: the local youth, Darren Todd, known for petty theft, is the likely culprit. However, inconsistencies in the case prompt Mahan to reconsider, leading him to invoke philosophical concepts such as Occam's Razor and biblical parables like the Prodigal Son to frame his investigation.

Notable Quote:

• Detective Inspector Mahan: "There was a row, Tina. People heard it... It has a history, a name, a former life." [17:34-17:40]
• Tina: "We have no reason to connect Remigio Parletti to this incident." [15:01]

The Revelation of Monica's Motives

A pivotal moment occurs when Monica reveals that the stolen money was not just from the till but also hidden savings. This suggests inside knowledge of the Parletti family's finances, implying premeditation. Mahan's semiotic analysis leads him to deduce that Monica, driven by a desire to exclude Remigio from the family inheritance, orchestrated the attack to frame her brother-in-law.

Notable Quote:

• Monica: "I just couldn't. I just couldn't stand letting them walk all over us." [39:57]
• Detective Inspector Mahan: "Someone wanted Remigio written out of his reward." [34:44]

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Character Dynamics

Dr. Paolo Baldi vs. Detective Inspector Mahan

Dr. Baldi's intellectual approach often clashes with Mahan's more conventional detective methods. Their interactions highlight a tension between academic analysis and practical enforcement, ultimately leading to a symbiotic partnership that unravels the mystery.

Notable Quote:

• Paolo Baldi: "You should take it further though." [16:01]
• Detective Inspector Mahan: "Semiotics is detection. It just musters the facts differently." [41:02]

The Parletti Family

• Gianni Parletti: The victim, whose past and financial dealings become central to the investigation.
• Ali Parletti: Gianni's dutiful son, initially framed as a suspect due to his proximity to the crime scene.
• Remigio Parletti: The prodigal son whose return ignites familial conflicts and becomes the focal point of the murder plot.
• Monica: Gianni's wife, whose hidden motives and actions drive the narrative towards uncovering the true culprit.

Notable Quote:

• Paolo Baldi: "Ali, I respect the old man. I would never do anything to hurt him." [19:15]
• Monica: "Every word. No, I didn't mean to kill him, I swear." [39:22]

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Climactic Resolution

Detective Inspector Mahan synthesizes philosophical insights with empirical evidence, leading to the unraveling of the true motive behind Gianni's assault. It is revealed that Monica, driven by greed and resentment towards Remigio's inheritance, orchestrated the attack to remove him from the will. Her actions were meticulously planned to frame Remigio, exploiting the family's trust and unveiling the complexities of human emotions intertwined with financial incentives.

Notable Quote:

• Detective Inspector Mahan: "Someone came in and struck your father... someone wanted Remigio, the prodigal son, written out of his reward.” [37:08-37:21]
• Monica: "I just couldn't stand letting them walk all over us." [39:57]

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Character Outcomes

• Remigio Parletti: Initially wrongfully accused and arrested, Remigio's innocence is eventually proven, exonerating him from the assault on Gianni.
• Monica: Her deceit and manipulation are exposed, leading to her culpability in Gianni's death.
• Ali Parletti: Cleared of wrongdoing, he grapples with the loss of his father and the betrayal within his family.
• Dr. Paolo Baldi: His role as an intellectual detective is cemented, showcasing the value of semiotic analysis in solving crimes.
• Detective Inspector Mahan: Demonstrates growth by integrating philosophical concepts into traditional detective work, leading to the resolution of the case.

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Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Gianni Parletti on Being Attacked:

   • Gianni: "I was working in the shop. I come out to the front to lock up and this guy hits me." [05:36]

2. Monica's Revelation:

   • Monica: "We didn't come home early... We came back because I was worried about Remigio." [12:36]

3. Mahan's Semiotic Insight:

   • Detective Inspector Mahan: "Someone wanted Remigio written out of his reward." [34:44]

4. Climactic Admission:

   • Monica: "I just couldn't stand letting them walk all over us." [39:57]

5. Philosophical Deduction:

   • Detective Inspector Mahan: "Occam's Razor suggests the simplest explanation is probably the correct one." [Not directly quoted but inferred from the discussion]

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Conclusion

Baldi - BBC 00-01-10 (01) The Prodigal Son masterfully intertwines classic detective storytelling with deep philosophical inquiry, creating a rich narrative that explores themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and the lengths one might go to secure financial stability. Through the collaboration of Dr. Paolo Baldi and Detective Inspector Mahan, the episode highlights the importance of critical thinking and the unearthing of hidden motives to reveal the truth. The resolution not only restores justice but also mends the fractured relationships within the Parletti family, offering a poignant commentary on forgiveness and redemption.

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Production Credits

• Paolo Baldi: David Threlfall
• Tina: Tina Kelleher
• Father Troy: T.P. McKenna
• Dr. Graham: Jared McSorley
• Superintendent Rin: Owen Rowe
• Mrs. Reed: Margaret Darcy
• Johnny: Paolo Tullio Ali
• Simon Delaney Monica Aoifera Kavanagh: Remigio
• Anto: Ana McCleum
• Tony the Barman: Frankie McCafferty
• Breeder: Anne Byrne Collett
• Others: Charlie Bonner, Tolan, Mark Perine, Mark Lambert, Darren Todd, Lawrence Kinlan, Liam Paul Rowe, Nicola Duffy.

Created by: Barry Devlin for Sarah Lawson Productions
Developed and Produced by: BBC Northern Ireland
Directed in Belfast by: Lawrence Jackson

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Through its intricate plot and well-developed characters, Baldi - The Prodigal Son stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of old-time radio dramas, captivating listeners with its blend of mystery, drama, and intellectual depth.

Transcript

[Paolo Baldi]

With the Amex Gold Card, turn your.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Errands into rewards with four times membership rewards points at US Supermarkets. Then grab a little pick me up from Dunkin courtesy of amex. With the $84 Dunkin credit, earn up.

[Paolo Baldi]

To $7 in monthly statement credits when.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You pay with the Gold Card.

[Paolo Baldi]

The AMEX Gold Card rewards you on.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Life'S necessities, enrollment required terms and points.

[Paolo Baldi]

Cap apply learn [e-mail] US explorer gold and now the first in a new series of murder mysteries for David Threlfall as Paolo Baldi in Baldi. How's me rain chips down there, Johnny? Almost ready, Leo.

[Monica]

Hey.

[Paolo Baldi]

Hey, Monica. Ali.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

What are you doing up there?

[Paolo Baldi]

My kiss with James. That messer you call your other son, he started in. And what does he do then, huh? He starts nicking things, that's all.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

A mouthful of grappa.

[Paolo Baldi]

And I wasn't stealing. If your mama was alive, it would break her heart to see brothers fight like this. Mama kept this strong all out of the house. You brought him back. He's your brother now. What he's done is done.

[Monica]

Come on, Ali. Don't let him spy the evening for us.

[Paolo Baldi]

Any chance to be ready ships there, Jane. Sorry, Liam.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Okay. Oh, I forgot. Please, please. The text for next week is hardest Aristotle and the Language of the Phenomenal. Okay. Thank you, Dr. Baldi. Oh, Professor Graham.

[Paolo Baldi]

May I have a word?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

A word from the Dean? I'm honored.

[Paolo Baldi]

As you should be, Dr. Baldy. Now, I've had a rather peculiar request from a Guardi.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Good Lord.

[Paolo Baldi]

Oh, no, no, they don't want to arrest you, Dr. Baldy, for your views on Heidegger or anything like that. No, it seems that they would like you to assist them with an investigation. A Detective Inspector Mahan called.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Ah, sorry, I don't know who that is.

[Paolo Baldi]

I trust it won't distract from your valuable work. Second year philosophy is a sweeping canvas.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yeah. What's still assist them with an investigation. It's had a ring to it, hasn't it?

[Tina]

Dr. Baldi, thank you for coming.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Detective Inspector Mann.

[Tina]

You were expecting a big Stratton fella, right? Well, the Garthy have emerged blinking into the 90s, Dr. Baldi. So a woman can rise to the dizzy heights of Detective Inspector. You're a professor of philosophy yourself, I believe.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, a junior lecturer, I'm afraid. Dr. Graham likes to make things sound important.

[Tina]

Oh, well, take a seat.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Thank you.

[Tina]

Let me fill you in on this thing.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Right.

[Tina]

You know Parletti's on Woodbine Road? The chippy that One old Parletti, Gianni, was attacked and robbed last night.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, that's terrible. Poor old chap.

[Tina]

The chipper is actually run by his son and daughter in law, but mund is their night off and Gianni takes over. When his son came home, he found his father lying on the floor.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Was he badly hurt?

[Tina]

Unconscious, Got hit from behind. He's recovering though.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

And is there a suspect?

[Tina]

There's an arrest. A young local fella, Darren Todd, well known to us and to them. Gianni's son rang us and we picked him up two streets away, still carrying the weapon and cash from the till.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

What did he hit Mr. Parletti with?

[Tina]

A snooker queue.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Does he play snooker, this kid?

[Tina]

No. He says he found the cue lying beside the old man. We presume he stole it, though we're not sure where just yet. There's loads of snooker clubs around.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

It sounds as if you have it under control.

[Tina]

We have. Sorry, I should have made it clear what we want you to do. See, the old man lapses into Italian when he gets upset.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I. You want me to translate, right? Of course.

[Tina]

What do you think we wanted you to do? Solve the crime?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, no. Well, this is stupid of me. I had a notion, you know, I'm.

[Tina]

Bare to echo the name of the rose there felt.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, yes, but lots of other things as well, you know. Professor Echo is a semioticist.

[Tina]

What's that when it's at home?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, it's a big word for science. Well, it's a fascinating branch of philosophy, actually. Well, I'm a sort of amateur semioticist.

[Tina]

Well, Dr. Baldi, there are signs here, but they all point one way. You're welcome to observe, of course, but really what we want you to do is Translate.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Translate? Yes.

[Tina]

Mr. Parletti.

[Paolo Baldi]

Another policeman?

[Tina]

No, Mr. Parletti, this gentleman isn't a policeman or a priest. Dr. Baldi is a professor. He's Italian.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

La familia vene del Aquila.

[Paolo Baldi]

Approved. Says molto ferroce.

[Tina]

Dr. Baldi is going to translate. Or at least that was the idea.

[Paolo Baldi]

Translate. I live 50 years here. Barlow. English perfectly.

[Tina]

Of course, Mr. Parletti. Now, would you mind telling us what happened?

[Paolo Baldi]

I already told you.

[Tina]

You lapsed. You began to speak Italian, Mr. Parletti, when you became angry.

[Paolo Baldi]

Okay, one more time. Okay. I was working in the shop. I come out to the front to lock up and this guy hits me.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You saw him? Sorry.

[Tina]

Did you see your attacker?

[Paolo Baldi]

How could I see him? I was leaning in his throne, so he hit me from behind.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Then how did you? Sorry, Sorry. How did he know who it was?

[Tina]

His son arrived in like moments later and called us. Isn't that right, Mr. Parletti? Your son came in. Alessandro Ali runs the shop.

[Paolo Baldi]

Miss to te me.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

She is very upset. How much money was taken?

[Tina]

About pound seventy. Basically the night's taken.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He used spar. It normally means savings.

[Tina]

The boy definitely wasn't carrying savings. Unless Mr. Parletti here was very improvident.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

What do you.

[Paolo Baldi]

What?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

What do you mean when you say respar me? Did the thief take your savings? No, not savings. Money. He says he just used the wrong word. Now, what about the boy?

[Tina]

What about him?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, he said he'd never attacked anyone before.

[Tina]

Not that we know of.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

So there's a discontinuity.

[Tina]

Dr. Baldi, there's always a first blow. Okay. And we caught him red handed right after the attack. If you don't mind, I'd like you to translate for us. Nothing more. I forgot, I'm sorry, I sounded a bit bossy. Bossy cow. You'll have to forgive me, I have the superintendent from hell on my back. I really appreciate your help. Would you be willing to translate for Gianni again if we need it?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Of course. I'd be delighted, Inspector.

[Tina]

Tina. It's shorter than Inspector.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Of course. Tina short for Martina?

[Tina]

Yes.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Paolo, short for Paulo.

[Paolo Baldi]

Hello, can I help you?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, I was. I was here a moment ago.

[Paolo Baldi]

Dr. Baldi, Jared Hagen, Mr. Paletti, solicitor. Oh, terrible thing, this.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

It's terrible.

[Paolo Baldi]

How's he coming along?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He seems fine.

[Paolo Baldi]

He's not that kind of doctor. What did you say? Johnny?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I'm not a medical doctor, I'm one of the useless kinds. Philosophy.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah, I see. What's a PhD doing here? Are you a friend? He's from the Abruzzi. I don't trust anyone from the Abruzzi.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I came back to ask Mr. Palette to hear about a word he used. Resparmi.

[Paolo Baldi]

Hey, what does it matter? Resparm. Exalted. My life is ruined. My son's life is ruined either way.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well, there's my answer. And I better be going there.

[Paolo Baldi]

Fine. He has stuff to sign.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, what's that?

[Paolo Baldi]

Dr. Baldy, with respect, I'm not sure that's any business.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I meant what time is it?

[Paolo Baldi]

It's 10 to 12.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well, I'm late. Atel. It's all right, I don't want chips. I wondered if I might talk to you about the robbery. Hello, Alessandro.

[Paolo Baldi]

Pale garde?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, no, I'm helping your father.

[Paolo Baldi]

This is an Italian.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, then hello. Hello. Could I ask you about. Well, you, Ali. About the night of the attack.

[Paolo Baldi]

This is the 50th time still. We went out, we came home.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Where did you go?

[Paolo Baldi]

The Oasis. Monica had a drink with her girlfriends. I watched the football.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You came home together?

[Monica]

Yeah, we came home early.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Why?

[Monica]

Because I didn't.

[Paolo Baldi]

Because she was worried about the old man. Always is. This place gets rough late on.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

And you found your father on the.

[Paolo Baldi]

Floor behind the counter. The door was open and the till was wrapped.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Right. How much was taken?

[Monica]

Well, that's it.

[Paolo Baldi]

Money from the till. 60, 70 quid.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yeah. That's all? No, no savings or anything?

[Paolo Baldi]

Savings? Look, Signore Baldi. No, no, no, it's all right. Forget it.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Say, Darren?

[Paolo Baldi]

Who wants to know?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I want to talk to you about Gianni Pauletti.

[Paolo Baldi]

Look, I never hit him, okay?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, the police think you did.

[Paolo Baldi]

The rozzlers think the earth is flat.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I know, I know.

[Paolo Baldi]

So?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

So what's happened?

[Paolo Baldi]

I was floating around sus and stuff. Found the chipper door open. The old fellow was lying on the floor. I thought he was drunk. So? So I don't know what anybody would do. I took the money from the till and legda.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, you didn't hit the old man.

[Paolo Baldi]

He never touched him. I didn't even know he was hurt.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

So if you didn't hit him, why were you wandering around with the billiard cube?

[Paolo Baldi]

I found her in there and I held onto it to sell.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, you expect me to believe that?

[Paolo Baldi]

All right there, pal? Hello.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Can I ask you something?

[Paolo Baldi]

Depends. My Costa.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Do you have a customer called Parletti?

[Paolo Baldi]

Which Parletti we talking about here?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

The guy from the chipper.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ali? Yeah. He comes in here with his misses of a Monday check. Engine light on. Take the guesswork out of your check engine light with O'Reilly Variscan. It's free. Ask for O'Reilly Veriskan today.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Auto Parts.

[Paolo Baldi]

Nice quiet fella. Not like the other mad clients. Remigio.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Remigio.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah, you don't know about Remigio. So? Well, there's two Parlettis brothers. Other now, different as talking cheese. Remedio's a real black sheep. Gambling, Gordon?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Snooker.

[Paolo Baldi]

Nothing wrong with snooker, pal. But yeah, a lot of that.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Is he around at the moment?

[Paolo Baldi]

Yeah, worse. Look, came back from England about four months ago for his mass funeral. Broke his mask. Harper. The old man still loved him. Still does.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Mrs. Paletti. Monica.

[Monica]

You're back.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Is Ali around?

[Monica]

He's gone up to the hospital. His dad had a bad night. You want to ask him something? Rife?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, yes.

[Paolo Baldi]

He.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He didn't tell me he had a brother. Would you have any idea why that was?

[Monica]

Don't know. Maybe taught you knew. Remigio isn't exactly what you call a secret.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No. Well, can I ask, do he and Ally get on?

[Monica]

Get on? Listen, Ali works like a dog. Remedio never did a hands turn. Then he goes off Axamaga in England. He comes back after his mother dies and the old man welcomes him back with open arms.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

It kind of answers my question.

[Monica]

There's something else you should know. We didn't come home early because we were worried about it being rough around here. We came back because I was worried about Remiggio, because he was here. Last time you were here, you asked about savings. Well, I don't know how you copped on, but you were right dead on. The money that was stolen wasn't just from the till, it was savings money that was stashed away.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Responded.

[Monica]

What?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Nothing. Sorry. Go on, please.

[Monica]

Savings, right? Hidden. So whoever took them had to know where they were. And there's another thing. Remedio is a pool player. Pool players use cues.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

This is palati. Have you told the police this stuff?

[Monica]

Amerta, the code of bleeding silence. Closing ranks. There isn't a hope in hell of the Guardi getting told in round here anyway. But even if there was, Gianni wouldn't turn in Remigio and that's that. How are you?

[Paolo Baldi]

Oh, yeah. Dr. Valley.

[Tina]

Hello.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Hello. How is your father?

[Paolo Baldi]

He's got blood poisoning.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Monica]

He's asking about Remiggio.

[Paolo Baldi]

That was he asking.

[Monica]

If you imagine you'll get on.

[Paolo Baldi]

Sure, yeah. Oh, certainly. I love him, he loves me. Sure.

[Tina]

We're a happy family.

[Monica]

Another tomato, Father Baldy.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Pomidori, you're just as. Ireland is home of the fry. It's a crowning glory, Father Baldy, the Irish fry. My husband, Mr. Reed, swore by it before his heart attack. Oh, that tall man phoned for you again, Troy. Did he leave a message? No, no message. Perhaps he's going to call on you again, unexpectedly.

[Tina]

He's very masterful, isn't he?

[Monica]

With that hair and all. I do love a touch of grey at the temples. What time will you be going to the university, Father Walden?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Ten o'clock, Mrs. Reed, as usual.

[Tina]

I still don't see what you're getting at. We know about Remigio Parletti. There's no reason to connect him to this incident.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Remigio was up at the house that night. That's What I'm getting at. There was a row, Peter. People heard it.

[Tina]

Yes, we know that. But people also saw Remigio leave at least an hour before the attack. We may not be bright, Dr. Baldi, but we can't gather basic information. And the Todd boy had been there earlier. Did you know that?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, no, but that. That proves nothing. It's a chippy. Most of the neighborhood comes in there.

[Tina]

It's Remigio's family home. So his being there proves even less. Brothers and sisters sometimes don't agree, but we can't arrest them for visiting.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Don't agree? Ally and Remedio low with one another.

[Tina]

And what, you want us to arrest Remedio on that basis?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, no, I didn't say that. What I'm saying is that the simple agenda is not the only one here.

[Tina]

Well, that's your opinion. We believe. Well, Superintendent Rin believes that the simple agenda works. Suspect arrested red handed, money returned, family happy, crime solved.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, yes, except the family isn't happy and the crime isn't solved.

[Tina]

Dr. Baldi, isn't there a thing in philosophy called Occam's Razor which says the most likely explanation. Explanation is probably the correct one.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I'm impressed. I still think you should take it further though.

[Tina]

And I prefer you didn't.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Your espresso, Doc?

[Paolo Baldi]

No, thank you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Sean, this babe in uniform you've been.

[Paolo Baldi]

Seen hanging around with, is she investigating.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You or vice versa? I'm helping me with the case. Oh, seriously? Translating. Translating. Is it on the north side? Like Italian chip shop thing?

[Monica]

Oh, I read about that poor old geezer.

[Tina]

He was hit on the head.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Indeed he was. Which reminds me. Would you stand up for a second, Sean? Turn around, please. I like that this is a public place, Doc. Oh, Doc. That was close.

[Paolo Baldi]

What are we doing here?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I'm just checking something out and. Right. Thank you, Sean. You've been a great help. Of course you've worked out what I was doing. Oh, give us a clue, Doc.

[Monica]

You're checking which side the owl fellow was attacked from?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Right? Well, left, but no, you're correct, breeder. That's exactly what I was doing. And whoever hit Gianni had to be left handed. Now, since you're so clever, I don't suppose I could borrow you for an hour?

[Tina]

Sure, sure. Yeah, but far away.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, good girl, breeder. Scoot first and ask questions later.

[Tina]

So what are we looking for here, Doc?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I don't know, breeder. To tell you the truth, I'm still getting a handle on this. Do you like Patrick Kavanagh?

[Tina]

Raglan Road. That's pretty much all I know.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You know what he said about the Trojan War?

[Tina]

No.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He said, then Homer's ghost came whispering to my ear. I made the Iliad. From such a local row.

[Tina]

Great line.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, from such a local row. You see, I have a sense that what we have here is more than a squabble at the door of a chippy. A lot more. This thing is a. It. It has a history, a name, a former life. But I don't know what it is yet.

[Tina]

And will you find it here?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, I doubt it, Breeder. This is just a reality check, Julia. Oh, that must be him over there. He looks just like Ali. He looks tough.

[Tina]

His friend looks even tougher.

[Paolo Baldi]

Seeing off, pal?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, Remigio.

[Paolo Baldi]

What about it?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I'm a friend of your father's. Palo Baldi.

[Paolo Baldi]

Don't know you. You a priest? You look like a priest. How is the old guy today?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Didn't Ali tell you?

[Paolo Baldi]

No. What?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He's got septicemia. Blood poisoning.

[Paolo Baldi]

Thank you, Ali. Get word to Remedio right away. Is it serious, this septicemia?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, yes, it can be.

[Paolo Baldi]

Better go and see him tonight.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You saw him the night he was attacked?

[Paolo Baldi]

Yeah, I left and some little pup attacked him. I wish I'd stayed.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He was hit with a cue. Not that one.

[Tina]

Dr. Baldi. Dr. Baldi, our taxi will be here.

[Paolo Baldi]

Are you suggesting something here? Dr. Baldi? Are you torn around? I miss the seller. You okay? Yeah, I'm fine. This guy's getting on my case about me father. Yeah.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

What's he on about?

[Paolo Baldi]

It's okay, Auntie. I respect the old man. My friend. I would never do anything to hurt him. See? After listening to Ally and that slag Monica.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Are you. Well, let me put you straight, pal.

[Paolo Baldi]

Remigio was nowhere near the shop when Gianni got hammered. Okay? Okay.

[Monica]

Certainly. That's okay with us.

[Paolo Baldi]

100 lasso. Come on, Rem.

[Tina]

Jeez, I need a drink.

[Monica]

Barman, you nearly got a dig there. Oh, young fella.

[Paolo Baldi]

What?

[Tina]

Give us two brandies, will you?

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah, listen, pal, I don't know what your game is, but keep out of this. Do you know what I mean?

[Monica]

Make them doubles, will you?

[Tina]

Like a good young fella.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Come over here to me.

[Tina]

Remicio, when did you stop beating your father?

[Monica]

Remicio, what are you like duck?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Look at him play.

[Monica]

I will not.

[Paolo Baldi]

He'll come over here and burst us.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, look. What do you see? He's a good shot. Look again.

[Tina]

He's left handed. Oh my God. That means he did it.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh my God.

[Tina]

Out of here this second.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

It means he could have done it, breeder. But does that mean his father thinks he did it?

[Paolo Baldi]

Hey, are you still here?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I need to talk to Giani. Tonight, I think. Meantime, let's get out of here this second.

[Monica]

I'm sorry, sir, you can't go in there.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well, I just wanted to ask Gianni one thing.

[Monica]

I'm afraid Johnny's not well. Not well at all.

[Paolo Baldi]

Oh, good Lord.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

How did it get to be so serious?

[Monica]

Post trauma septicemia can be very dangerous and terribly swift. The doctors are doing all the they can.

[Paolo Baldi]

Oh, my poor friend.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Did he ask for a priest?

[Monica]

He's had the priest.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well then, no. Good night, nurse. Nothing more to be to be done. Good night, old fellow.

[Paolo Baldi]

Papa, how are you? Papa, can you hear me? Remicia. Ali. Come close. We're here.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Papa.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ali. Filome, forgive your brother. Remicia, don't fight no more. When I go, don't go. Papa.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Papa.

[Monica]

Ali. He's dead.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ali. Aradello.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Don't touch me, you lion.

[Paolo Baldi]

You killed him.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, Ali, no.

[Paolo Baldi]

Don't say that to me. I love them. Who knew what the savings were? Only you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, Papa.

[Monica]

Papa.

[Paolo Baldi]

I don't know how you can act sorry after what you've done, but I won't shield you any longer. Amid you. Not one second more.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Inspector man.

[Tina]

Saying a prayer for poor Gianni.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I prayed for him last night. Today I'm scouring the heavens for a sign.

[Tina]

Have you found one?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You know, I think I may have. Here. The Gospel of St. Luke, chapter 15. But you came here to ask me something, right?

[Tina]

Yes, the word old Mr. Parletti used. Risperyami. It definitely wouldn't be used for cash. And the tail?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Definitely not.

[Tina]

Superintendent Ryn wanted me to double check.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Ah. Something happened?

[Tina]

You could say that. All right. Ali Parletti just came into the station and made a statement. He tells us that savings were taken on the night and that only one other person knew where they were. Remio Parletti. So I owe you an apology. You were right all along. The simple agenda was not the only one.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, don't quote me on that, Inspector.

[Tina]

Tina. So you've helped us solve our case. For which. Thank you. Ironically and sadly for me, Gianni's death means we won't be, you know, needing your services anymore. So.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, yes, of course.

[Tina]

Thank you again. And I better be off. Oh, goodbye, Dr. Bowley.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Goodbye, Dina.

[Paolo Baldi]

Oh, is Remedio Paletti around yourself again? He's not Here.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I wonder, do you know where he lives?

[Paolo Baldi]

The Bridewell G Station, I'd say at the moment is after being arrested. Oh, and the rosters. Busted in here and took him away on a break of 117. He wasn't a bit pleased with hospitality and graciousness.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You're very quiet, Father Baldy. Subdued. You're getting as bad as Mr. Hamilton here. Isn't that right, Mr. Hamilton? He's getting as bad as you. Would you like another piece, Father Baldy? No, thank you, Mrs. Reed. No. If that's the fatted calf, then. Fatted calf? Oh, no, this isn't veal, Father Baldy. Veal's very cruel, the way they treat them calves. No, no, it's louder head, father bald. No, Mrs. Reed, I didn't mean you. Excuse me, I. Something has been staring me in the face. Isn't Mr. Hamilton here? No, not Mr. Hamilton. My sign, Mrs. Reid. I think I know what it means. Can I help you? Mr. O'Hagan? Junior, Senior. I'm not certain. Oh, that's him. Excuse me. Mr. O'Hagan?

[Paolo Baldi]

Yes.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

We met at old Mr. Paletti's bedside.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah, so we did. You're the doctor, right?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes. Paolo Baldi.

[Paolo Baldi]

Terrible thing this turned out to be his deathbed.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I mean, that's it, Mr. O'Hagan. That time I burst in, was Remigio Padletti being written out of his father's will?

[Paolo Baldi]

Look, Dr. Baldi, I can't tell you that. Really?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, it may. It may help. An innocent manner.

[Paolo Baldi]

Remigial.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes.

[Paolo Baldi]

You think he didn't do it?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He didn't do it. Now can I take it? And I'm right about the will. Thank you. Excuse me, I have to run. Hello. I'm looking for Inspector Mar.

[Paolo Baldi]

And who might you be?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I'm Dr. Palo Baldi.

[Paolo Baldi]

Ah, the man with the float. Italian. Thanks for your help, sir. I'm Superintendent Rin. Look, I'll get someone to help you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

This polity thing.

[Paolo Baldi]

Tragic. Took a turn for the worse and bang, dead in 10 minutes. But I think justice will be done.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I doubt it. You've arrested Remigio.

[Paolo Baldi]

Who told you that?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I was up at the snooker hall.

[Paolo Baldi]

He's helping us with our inquiries.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, yes, but he won't be much help. He didn't do it.

[Paolo Baldi]

Well, if he didn't, we found the savings in his flat, all present and correct.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well, have you considered that they might have been put there?

[Paolo Baldi]

Considered it? I know they were put there.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, well, in that case, they were.

[Paolo Baldi]

Put There by Remicio Parletti. Now, thank you once again for your help, Dr. Baldi. And the case is closed. Perhaps we'll see you at the funeral.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Can I ask you something, Mrs. Reed?

[Monica]

Anything, Father Baldy.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Are you familiar with the story of the prodigal son? The mad fella that comes back and gets the fatted calf? The very one. Now, Mrs. Reed, think carefully. What was his name? I don't think he had a name, Father Baldy. He was just the prodigal son. Very good, Mrs. Reed. And the good son. I don't think he had a name either, Father Baldy. Right again. Now, Mrs. Reid, the jackpot question. What was the name of the good son's wife? It's a trick question, isn't it? It is indeed, Mrs. Reed, a trick question. Well done. Please excuse me, I have to go.

[Monica]

But aren't you waiting for the answer? Father Baldy, Will I put your chop by for you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Italians, odd as tea.

[Monica]

Ali's up at the undertakers. But there's a post mortem and we have to earn 11. So frying tonight?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Of course. It's a terrible tragedy.

[Monica]

Tragedy? Is that the Bee Gees we're talking about here? This was murder, Dr. Baldy.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You still believe Remy Jones did it? So, Mrs. Pauletti. Monica, you believe?

[Monica]

Yeah, I do have to fund the savings up in this flat. Here you are, Dr. Bo.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Thank you. I'm sorry about all this. How much do I owe you?

[Monica]

On the house, Dr. Baldy. Thank you for taking an interest.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Money. Good. Could you put some extra salt on those for me?

[Monica]

Sure.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

See, I like salt. Not too much. Thank you. Back for the heart. Thank you. Good night. Very interesting. Set this watch four minutes around this corner. Let's see. Go.

[Paolo Baldi]

Still on the case, pal?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes. I have a question.

[Paolo Baldi]

Where away?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Where is the tv?

[Paolo Baldi]

Upstairs, the big lounge. We open about seven. Earlier if there's a game like Monday. Yeah, Monday's a big game night.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Good. Thank you.

[Paolo Baldi]

That's it?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

That's it. Oh, actually, the. There's one more thing you can help me with.

[Paolo Baldi]

Hey, pal, I seen you in there. You're looking for the media.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I'm not, as it happen.

[Paolo Baldi]

He's out there getting lifted.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I know. Do you now?

[Paolo Baldi]

Well, what I want to know, pal, is this. Had you got anything to do with it?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, nothing. Nothing.

[Paolo Baldi]

Did you not? Then what the hell are you doing snooping round?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I'm. Look, I'm actually working on his behalf. Look, look, you see this watch here? Show is that.

[Paolo Baldi]

Now there's our watch. Do you know what I think it's after stopping you. Epoxy. Ratchet.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Where's the switch? Oh, Father Troy. Good God, man, don't do that.

[Paolo Baldi]

What on earth have you done to your face?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I got into a fight with someone about a thing. Call me plain paolo, please.

[Paolo Baldi]

So Mrs. Reid was right in what she said.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh? What does she say? Where is she?

[Paolo Baldi]

She went to bed. Tired of staying up waiting for you. She says your life has become increasingly irregular.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, sometimes. Miss me tea? If that's what you.

[Paolo Baldi]

And Father Liston says. You are not a frequent visitor to his confession?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

At the moment, I have nothing to confess. I often wish I had. Now I have a black eye which hurts like the blazes. I'm looking for something to put on it. I'm very tired. Can we hold the Inquisition till another time? It's not an inquisition.

[Paolo Baldi]

I came to remind you about the Easter retreat.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You'll come?

[Paolo Baldi]

Of course. You could do with a withdrawal from the world. By the looks of things.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You could be right there. Derritore.

[Paolo Baldi]

Good. April 14th. I'll be off.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

So, would you like a cup of.

[Paolo Baldi]

No, thank you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Mrs.

[Paolo Baldi]

Beat was generous with seed cake earlier. Much earlier. You're a sabbatical, Father Baldi, from your ministry you're still adamant about.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You need time, De la Torre, and space to see what God wants from me.

[Paolo Baldi]

I know very well what he wants from you. But we won't go into that now.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

That's a sensible decision.

[Paolo Baldi]

Good night, then. Father Baldi.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

It's not Father Paolo. Never mind.

[Tina]

Hello, Paolo. What a coincidence. I was just about to come and see you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Huh, about what?

[Tina]

We reviewed this thing last night. Super inner myself. The case against Remigio seems overwhelming. Open and shut. His only alibi is a petty thief called Anto Nolan.

[Paolo Baldi]

That's what.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

We've met.

[Tina]

What a shiner. Did he do that to you?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes. I would have fought back, but I'm a pacifist in theory and a coward in practice.

[Tina]

But that's an assault.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I don't wish to press charges now, Tina, look. Tell me, why were you about to call on me if the case is open and shut?

[Tina]

Because of something Rin said in the course of our review.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

And that was?

[Tina]

Rin told me you think we've got the wrong man.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I didn't think it mattered to Rin what I thought.

[Tina]

It matters to me. I was wrong about the boy. I want to hear what you're saying now. Particularly why you've changed your mind about Remigio.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, I haven't. Changed my mind. I never said that Remigio did it.

[Tina]

You did.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I said the boy didn't do it and Remigio might have. See, quite soon afterwards I realized I was wrong. Remember the chapel when I said I'd found a sign? Luke 15.

[Tina]

I don't know Luke 15, doctor.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Oh, you do. It's the prodigal son story, you know. Gianni is the father, Ali is the son, the dutiful son. Remigio is the prodigal who returns and you know, gets what?

[Tina]

The fatted cat.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Exactly. And in this case, the fatted calf is an inheritance because old Mr. Paletti put Remedio back in the will after his mother died.

[Tina]

How do you know that?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Because I was there when he changed it back. Although I say I only realized that today.

[Tina]

Gianni changed the will.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

He disinherited Remigio right after he was attacked. Seem to be fair to him. Everything pointed to Remigio.

[Tina]

To be fair to me, it still does.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, fair enough. But I looked again at my parable and I saw something very clearly. When he's reinstated, the prodigal son doesn't beat up the father, does he? To me, that seemed to indicate that someone else had done this. Someone who wanted Remigio, the prodigal son, written out of his reward, which just happened to be half of everything. Ali had worked like a dog for the same person, planting the savings, the risparmi, in Remigio's flat.

[Tina]

You're talking about a setup here, aren't you? Yes, It's a nice parable and a nice theory, but that's all it is, Paolo, a theory. Have you any proof? Any evidence?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, yes, but I need you to be there.

[Tina]

Where the chippy.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Just, Just.

[Paolo Baldi]

Just come.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

If I'm wrong here, I'll go into Rin's office and hand myself in for obstruction of common sense, okay?

[Tina]

If you're wrong here, Wren will be too busy hanging me to bother with you. But okay, lead on.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Sorry for lagging. I had to call someone. Did you ring?

[Tina]

Yeah, twice.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, there you go. Someone's coming. Hello. Can we come in? Yeah.

[Paolo Baldi]

Inspector.

[Tina]

Mr. Pardetti. Monica.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Hello. I'm so sorry about your father.

[Paolo Baldi]

Yeah, well, at least that hypocrite Remigio got what he deserved.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, he didn't deserve it, Ali, because he didn't do it. He was set up.

[Paolo Baldi]

Set up? What do you want?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

About? Well, now. Well, look, just. Just check out what happened, Ali. Someone came in and struck your father. A blow on the head, right? Just a tap, nothing serious. Though of course, in the end it proved fatal. Now this. Someone took the savings and left a snooker cube beside the body of your father. And one why to frame Remigio. It almost worked too. If the boy hadn't been sniffing around and disturbed the carefully arranged tableau, it would have all been fine. In fact, it worked in part. Remigio did get written out of the will.

[Paolo Baldi]

That was my father's decision. I didn't make him do that.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes, but the boy had ruined the best bit. The bit that, you know, end up with Remigio in jail. And when I came along, there was a second chance to frame Remigio. So I was born pointed in the right direction.

[Paolo Baldi]

I didn't point you in any direction. You've got a nerve saying that I would hit the old man with the head.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, no, that's not what I'm saying, stupid.

[Paolo Baldi]

Look, I have a perfect alibi. I was in the Oasis all night. You could have checked it out easily if you weren't so stupid. And not only that, he's right handed anyway, so he couldn't have done it. End of story.

[Tina]

Superintendent Rin.

[Paolo Baldi]

Yes. You seem to have lost the run of yourself here, my Italian friend. And as for you, man, Dr. Baldy.

[Tina]

Had some new evidence I thought we should.

[Paolo Baldi]

New evidence? The blow was left handed. Mr. Perletti here is right handed, am I right? You're dead right, pal. So Mr. Perletti didn't do it. And I'm calling this little inquisition to a close. Tony, where do you think you're going? Bally.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

There you are, crocky. Just in time. Now, Tony here is the barman at the Oasis.

[Paolo Baldi]

I know Tony. What the hell has he got to do with this? Maybe you're going to tell us that. Tony. Hit me faster.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

No, Tony, tell us where Ali was on the night of the assault.

[Paolo Baldi]

Why are you asking him? I was watching the match. In the bar. That's right, he was.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

And he was there the whole night?

[Paolo Baldi]

Yeah. You're making a fool of yourself, Baldi. Look, I don't have time to listen to this.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

And this lady, Monica.

[Paolo Baldi]

Monica was there all night.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

You couldn't see her from the TV bar. Ali, I checked.

[Paolo Baldi]

Monica left the bar.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Okay, when?

[Paolo Baldi]

About midnight.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

For how long?

[Paolo Baldi]

About a quarter of an hour. But she came back and then she went upstairs to collect Ally to bring him home.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Monica, please, please, please. Where do you think she went in that quarter of an hour?

[Paolo Baldi]

Maybe outside for some fresh air? I don't know.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, let me suggest where she went. Tony. How Long did it take you to walk here from the Oasis?

[Paolo Baldi]

About five minutes.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Four minutes and 33 seconds is what my watch said. That's nine and a half minutes for the return journey. It's quite long enough to go to the chippy, hit Gianni Paletti over the head, arrange a little tableau and get back to the oasis to bring Ali home. Except that the setup had gone all wrong in the meantime.

[Paolo Baldi]

Don't talk them like that.

[Monica]

It's true. Every word. No, I didn't mean to kill him, I swear. But couldn't stand there and watch Remigio take what was ours. What we slave for together. Letting them walk all over us. Couldn't. I just couldn't.

[Tina]

Well done, Dr. Baldy.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Sherlock Holmes, eh?

[Tina]

Wish I'd been able to talk to my teacher like that.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, I can't stop them. Moral authority of an aardvark.

[Tina]

Why did you keep going past Remicio like.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

There's two reasons. First, the prodigal son doesn't beat up the father, like I said before. But then there was an even bigger deviation from the original.

[Tina]

Monica.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Right. The prodigal son story doesn't have a moniker. A vengeful wife. And who knows how it would have ended if it had?

[Tina]

Maybe like this.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, maybe. See, Ali behaved like the good son in the parable. He sulked at it, but he accepted it. But Monica. Monica was not going to accept the new state of affairs so easily. Not that she wanted to commit murder, not far from it. She just wanted Gianni to cut Remigio out of the will. She was appalled when the septicemia cut in.

[Tina]

How did you find out? She was left handed.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

I got her to pour salt on me chips. I should have felt a little guilty. She wouldn't accept payment. She just thanked me for taking an interest.

[Tina]

Don't feel guilty. She was using you.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Yes. Yes, she was. To point at Remigio. Well, the joker in the pack for me was that Ally was genuinely unaware of what his wife was up to. He would never have allowed it. He wouldn't even shot Remedio till his father died. The good son, you see.

[Tina]

What would you have done if she hadn't cracked?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, felt foolish. Very foolish. But. Well, I could see that she was likely to tell the truth after Gianni died.

[Tina]

Well, I'm gobsmacked. It's either beginners look on a massive scale or.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, thank you.

[Tina]

I'll have to seriously rethink my approach to detection.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Semiotics is detection. It just musters the facts differently.

[Tina]

Thought you might say that detection climbs.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

To the truth by building a tower of facts with stairs and banisters, semiotics. Just builds a heap, a mound, and then, you know, leaps sideways off the top. Of course, that's a metaphor. But then this life is a metaphor. Could I buy you a coffee in the buttery?

[Tina]

Love one, Dr. Baldi.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Paolo. Now, Paolo.

[Tina]

Paolo. You know, Paolo, the Prodigal Son story has always seemed to me to be a complete crock in terms of natural justice.

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Well, it's not about natural justice, Tina. It's about divine forgiveness. The prodigal son is at the heart of a very vexing relationship between a simple God and his utterly perplexing creation, man.

[Tina]

The Prodigal Song. The chapel at lunchtime. Divine forgiveness. You're not by any chance an ex priest, Dr. Val?

[Detective Inspector Mahan]

Not Paulo. And no, one thing I can swear to, Tina, I'm not an ex priest.

[Paolo Baldi]

In Prodigal Son by Barry Devlin, the part of Paolo Baldi was played by David Threlfel and Tina by Tina Kelleher. Father Troy by T.P. mcKenna, Dr. Graham, Jared McSorley, Superintendent Rin, Owen Rowe and Mrs. Reed by Margaret Darcy. Johnny was played by Paolo Tullio Ali, Simon Delaney, Monica Aoifera, Kavanagh, Remigio, Damien McAdam, Anto, Ana McCleum and Tony the Barman by Frankie McCafferty. Breeder was played by Anne Byrne Collett, Charlie Bonner, Tolan, Mark Perine, O'Hagan, Mark Lambert, Darren Todd, Lawrence Kinlan, Liam Paul Rowe and O'Hagan Secretary by Nicola Duffy. Other parts were played by members of the cast. Baldy was created by Barry Devlin for Sarah Lawson Productions and was developed and produced by BBC Northern Ireland. Baldi was directed in Belfast by Lawrence Jackson.