Battle For Inspector West 1967-05-18 Shadow On A Millionaire

Summary

Podcast Summary: Battle For Inspector West - Episode: Shadow On A Millionaire

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Introduction

"Battle For Inspector West" is a gripping episode from Harold's Old Time Radio series, originally aired on May 18, 1967. This installment, titled "Shadow On A Millionaire," delves into the perilous world of Chief Inspector Roger West as he navigates treacherous alliances, deceit, and the looming threat of the nefarious Corrosion. Set against the backdrop of post-war Scotland Yard, the episode masterfully intertwines suspense, drama, and intricate detective work, reminiscent of classics like "The Shadow" and "Dragnet."

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Plot Overview

The episode opens with Chief Inspector Roger West receiving a cryptic phone call that sets off a chain of events involving his daughter, Christine, and a menacing antagonist known as Corrosion. Michael Grant, a desperate father, is coerced into a dangerous game where his daughter's life hangs in the balance. As Grant grapples with the unfolding predicament, West employs his keen investigative skills to trace the clues and outmaneuver Corrosion's sinister plans.

Throughout the night, tensions escalate as characters maneuver through threats, alliances, and revelations. Key locations include bustling Waterloo Station, the serene Uplands hotel in Dorset, and the opulent yet ominous manor of Sir Mortimer Grant. The narrative reaches a climax when West confronts Corrosion at the old Grant residence, leading to a tense showdown that tests West's resolve and cunning.

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Character Interactions and Developments

1. Chief Inspector Roger West (Patrick Annan)

   As Scotland Yard's seasoned detective, West embodies determination and intellect. From the outset, he is portrayed as a man under immense pressure, balancing his professional duties with personal stakes involving his daughter, Janet. His strategic thinking becomes evident as he deciphers the intricacies of Corrosion's schemes.

   • Notable Quote:
     Roger West [04:00]: "A little bird told me. A yobbo bird. Or three of them, to be precise."

2. Michael Grant (Michael Grant)

   A devoted father ensnared in Corrosion's manipulation, Grant's desperation is palpable. His interactions reveal a man torn between safeguarding his daughter and navigating the sinister demands placed upon him.

   • Notable Quote:
     Michael Grant [01:34]: "You're Christine? It's a little late to be playing the devoted father, isn't it?"

3. Janet West (Sarah Lawson)

   Roger West's wife, Janet brings a supportive yet concerned presence. Her insights and warnings serve as a crucial sounding board for West's strategies.

   • Notable Quote:
     Janet West [04:11]: "What happened exactly?"

4. Julietta (Sarah Lawson)

   A mysterious and formidable character aligned with Corrosion, Julietta's chilling demeanor and cryptic dialogue add layers of tension and uncertainty.

   • Notable Quote:
     Julietta [07:24]: "Ask no questions, Mr. Grant. Make no trouble. That is, if you wish to see your wife again."

5. Corrosion

   The enigmatic antagonist orchestrating the chaos, Corrosion's shadow looms large throughout the episode. His motives remain veiled, adding to the suspense and unpredictability of his actions.

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Key Moments and Notable Quotes

• Initial Confrontation at the Bar ([00:37] - [02:15]):
  The episode jumps into action with a tense exchange between Michael Grant and another character, setting the stage for the ensuing conflict.

  • Notable Quote:
    Michael Grant [01:52]: "If the police are brought into this, Christine will pay for it. My daughter will pay with her life."

• Strategic Moves at Victoria Station ([05:34] - [10:33]):
  West's tactical decisions come to the fore as he anticipates Grant's movements, showcasing his adeptness in law enforcement operations.

  • Notable Quote:
    Roger West [04:00]: "A little bird told me. A yobbo bird. Or three of them, to be precise."

• Intimidating Encounter with Julietta ([07:04] - [18:59]):
  Julietta confronts Grant, unveiling Corrosion's hold over him and laying out the grim choices he faces.

  • Notable Quote:
    Julietta [09:12]: "You will do what you are told. No more, no less."

• Climactic Showdown at Sir Mortimer Grant's House ([12:16] - [23:53]):
  The tension crescendos as West closes in on Corrosion, leading to revelations about family ties and past grievances.

  • Notable Quote:
    Roger West [23:09]: "You just fine, Chris. For me. Get her back and I'll get Corrosion. I'll deliver him to you personally. I promise you that."

• Final Confrontation and Resolution ([24:13] - [28:17]):
  West's relentless pursuit culminates in a face-off with Corrosion, highlighting themes of justice, obsession, and the thin line between duty and personal vendetta.

  • Notable Quote:
    Corrosion [27:47]: "He has laid many traps for me over the years, and I've escaped them all. Now I propose to reverse the procedure. And I assure you, Julietta, there will be no escape from my trap for chief inspector Roger West."

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Insights and Themes

"Shadow On A Millionaire" delves deep into themes of obsession, sacrifice, and the perpetual battle between good and evil. Chief Inspector West's unwavering commitment to justice is juxtaposed against Corrosion's manipulative prowess, painting a vivid picture of heroism in the face of relentless adversity. The intricate web of family dynamics, especially the strained relationship between West and his father, adds emotional depth, emphasizing the personal costs of law enforcement.

The episode also explores the vulnerabilities of individuals under duress, as seen through Michael Grant's predicament and Janet West's supportive yet pragmatic approach. Julietta's character serves as a personification of Corrosion's enigmatic influence, blurring the lines between ally and adversary.

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Conclusion

"Shadow On A Millionaire" masterfully encapsulates the essence of the Golden Age of Radio dramas. Through its compelling narrative, well-developed characters, and suspenseful plot twists, the episode offers listeners an immersive experience into the tumultuous world of Chief Inspector Roger West. As the episode concludes, the unresolved tensions and looming threats promise further intrigue, setting the stage for subsequent installments in this riveting series.

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Notable Quotes at a Glance

• Roger West:
  "A little bird told me. A yobbo bird. Or three of them, to be precise." ([04:00])

• Michael Grant:
  "If the police are brought into this, Christine will pay for it. My daughter will pay with her life." ([01:52])

• Julietta:
  "Ask no questions, Mr. Grant. Make no trouble. That is, if you wish to see your wife again." ([07:24])

• Corrosion:
  "There will be no escape from my trap for chief inspector Roger West." ([27:47])

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This detailed summary encapsulates the intricate plot and dynamic character interactions of "Shadow On A Millionaire," providing both newcomers and longtime fans with a comprehensive overview of this enthralling episode.

Transcript

[Narrator]

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[Roger West]

Calling Chief Inspector West.

[Unknown Character]

Calling Chief Inspector West.

Standby for West. A crime file based on John Creases novel Battle for Inspector West Dramatized for radio by Morris Travers. Battle for Inspector West Starring Patrick Annan as Chief Inspector Roger west of Scotland Yard and Sarah Lawson as his wife, Janet. Part 3 Shadow on a MILLIONAIRE I tell you, I did exactly as you told me, Morley. I swear it. I didn't breathe a word to west about your phone call.

[Michael Grant]

Then how is it that he's here? Somewhere out there on Waterloo Station?

[Unknown Character]

I don't know. I lost him back in Salisbury. I'm sure of him.

[Michael Grant]

Obviously you didn't.

[Unknown Character]

What makes you so dead certain you haven't seen him here yourself? Simply because some scruffy character comes sliding into the bar, slips you a dirty scrap of paper.

[Michael Grant]

He was one of Corrosion's men, Mr. Grant. And the orders from Corrosion were unmistakable. If the police are brought into this, Christine will pay for it. My daughter will pay with her life.

[Unknown Character]

I didn't bring them in.

[Michael Grant]

Well, there's only one thing to be done now. We must call the whole thing off. You must go back to Uplands.

[Unknown Character]

Go back?

[Michael Grant]

Yes, that's the answer. If you return to Dorset, to the hotel, Inspector west will follow. That will make it clear to Corrosion that you didn't involve the police deliberately. And then he'll do nothing to my Christine.

[Unknown Character]

You're Christine? It's a little late to be playing the devoted father, isn't it?

[Michael Grant]

Not too late.

[Unknown Character]

She's your wife.

[Michael Grant]

But she's my daughter too, Mr. Grant. How else do you think Corrosion could have forced me into doing all this? Do you think a prison cell alters a man's feelings for his own flesh and blood?

[Unknown Character]

Molly, look in the doorway.

[Roger West]

He's back.

[Unknown Character]

It isn't the same man. Isn't it? Who gave you the note? What the devil does he want now?

[Porter]

Excuse me again, gent, sir. I haven't come back for another handout, though. I only wanted to wait five minutes. Found a way to fix the bogey. Keep him too busy to bother with you two. Five minutes.

[Unknown Character]

Okay.

[Porter]

So, thanks again, Governor. One of the right sort, that's what you are.

[Unknown Character]

Molly.

What?

[Michael Grant]

It seems there is a way out for us after all. We do as he said. Wait here for five minutes and then go, and you'll be able to follow the remainder of your instructions.

[Janet West]

Oh, nursey got to Janice.

[Unknown Character]

Over here.

[Janet West]

Oh, thank heavens, darling. I've been looking everywhere. Roger, what's happened to your face? And look at your jacket.

[Roger West]

I ran into a spot of bother. Did you manage to overhear anything between young Grant and Arthur Morley?

[Janet West]

Well, they know you're here, Roger. That's why I left the bar, to warn you.

[Roger West]

Well, you needn't the bother, Jan. I worked that out for myself.

[Unknown Character]

Oh?

[Julietta]

How, Jan?

[Roger West]

Who came into the bar and talked to Grant and Morley?

[Janet West]

Some kind of tramp. He came in twice. But how did you know that?

[Roger West]

I'll tell you later. The main thing is, did you hear any instructions from Morley about Grant's next move?

[Janet West]

Only one thing. Well, Grant was to take the tube to Victoria Station.

[Roger West]

Victoria.

[Unknown Character]

Right.

[Roger West]

Come on.

[Janet West]

Where are we going?

[Roger West]

Up to Station Approach Road. Ask for a couple of patrol cars to wait there.

[Janet West]

But don't you want me to go back into the bar? I might be able to hear more.

[Roger West]

Not tonight, John, my girl. Those two will have gone by this time, anyway.

[Janet West]

How can you be sure?

[Roger West]

A little bird told me. A yobbo bird. Or three of them, to be precise. Are you talking about a minor skirmish with the three yobbos I mentioned? Hence my face and this tear in my jacket.

[Unknown Character]

Yes.

[Janet West]

What happened exactly?

[Roger West]

Well, these three characters bumped into me, started a punch up. It didn't last long, and I rather think they got little more than they bargained for. But the trick worked just the same.

[Janet West]

Trick?

[Roger West]

Don't you see it, Jan? All accidentally on purpose. While I was otherwise engaged, Grant and Morley have enough time to nip out of the bar without being spotted. Corrosion's organization is working a treat.

[Janet West]

Oh, darling, I'm sorry. I should never have come out of the bar.

[Roger West]

Well, don't expect me to blame you for that. After all, if a wife won't worry about her husband, who will then? Ah, there are the cars.

[Janet West]

So, where to now, Victoria?

[Roger West]

For me, but not for you. You can pack off home. You've done your bit and done it.

[Unknown Character]

Nobody but Roger.

[Roger West]

You heard me. I'll call the Yard and get every plainclothesman they can spare over to Victoria Station to keep a watch on Morley and Grant's movements. Constable, this is my wife. Take her home, will you? Chelsea Bell. Street.

[Porter]

Right, inspector.

[Roger West]

Bye, Jan. Bye, darling.

[Porter]

Good luck.

[Roger West]

I'm gonna need it. You and I are going to Victoria, my lady. Come on. Put your foot down. Yes, sir.

[Michael Grant]

This is it now, Mr. Grant. Victoria.

[Unknown Character]

Are you getting out here, too?

[Michael Grant]

No, I stay on the tube. I've done my part.

[Unknown Character]

From now on, you're on your own.

[Michael Grant]

You know what to do. But remember, we were lucky to get away from West. Don't do anything careless now.

[Unknown Character]

I won't. What happens at the other end, Morley? After I've got to east Croydon.

[Michael Grant]

Simply wait outside the station there for your next contact. Go on now, before the door shut.

[Unknown Character]

Okay. Bye.

[Michael Grant]

Goodbye.

[Porter]

Evening, sir.

[Unknown Character]

What? Oh, porter. Good evening.

[Roger West]

Can I help you, sir? Seeing you walking up and down. If you're after a taxi.

[Unknown Character]

No, no. I'm waiting for friends to collect me.

Oh, a car coming now, sir. That'll be your friends, I expect. Why don't they dim those headlights? Blinder man.

[Roger West]

Blind, Sir.

[Unknown Character]

Night porter.

[Julietta]

Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

What?

[Julietta]

Get in quickly, please.

[Unknown Character]

Well, I. I wasn't expecting a lady. Or a Rolls, complete with chauffeur.

[Julietta]

Into the back. Here. Hurry.

[Unknown Character]

How could I possibly refuse such a charming invitation?

[Julietta]

All right, Hendricks. Drive on.

[Unknown Character]

Now, who are you and where are we going?

[Julietta]

Ask no questions, Mr. Grant. Make no trouble. That is, if you wish to see your wife again.

[Unknown Character]

Is that where you're taking me? To see Chris?

[Julietta]

Sit back, Mr. Grant. Relax. And in case you have any reckless thoughts in your head, I must tell you I'm holding a gun.

[Unknown Character]

Are you also going to tell me your name?

[Julietta]

My name is Julietta.

[Unknown Character]

Julietta what?

[Julietta]

Julietta is as much as you need to know.

[Unknown Character]

I see. Is there any objection to my smoking, Ms. Julietta? If it is, miss, it is.

[Julietta]

There is no objection.

[Unknown Character]

Thank you. Cigarette? Or perhaps you don't.

[Julietta]

Not at this moment.

[Unknown Character]

Ah.

[Julietta]

Mr. Grant. The match.

[Unknown Character]

Damn.

[Julietta]

Did you burn your finger?

[Unknown Character]

You find that funny, do you?

[Julietta]

It is you I find funny. And also very obvious.

[Unknown Character]

Obvious?

[Julietta]

You didn't want a cigarette. Only an excuse to light the match so that you could see me. I hope you are not disappointed.

[Unknown Character]

Oh, you're a. You're a very striking young woman. No two ways about that. Or about the gun in your hand.

[Julietta]

Did you doubt that I had it? I never trouble to lie, Mr. Grant, in that. I'm like Coruscian.

[Unknown Character]

You talk as if you know him very well.

[Julietta]

I do. Certainly. Well enough to say that if you do anything stupid, your beautiful wife will not remain beautiful. She will find herself wishing she had never heard the name of Michael Graham.

[Unknown Character]

You. If he's touched her. If that swine's laid so much as a finger on Chris.

[Julietta]

You will do what? Please tell me if I'd be interested to know. What do you imagine you can do against such a man as corrosion? You are helpless. Sit back, Mr. Grant. Sit still. Smoke your cigarette. That is all. You can do what you are told. No more, no less.

[Porter]

Church was speaking.

[Roger West]

Roger west here, sir.

[Porter]

All right, let's have it. Roger, what's going on?

[Roger West]

Oh, not very much. Looks like we've come to a full stop period.

[Porter]

Have you lost Grant?

[Roger West]

As of this moment, yes. One of the chaps at Victoria got onto his tracks. We know Grant took a train for East Croydon. So I came straight down here. Found a porter who saw a Rolls Royce pick him up. I've got onto the local police. Organize the Sussex, Surrey and Kent police to cooperate. Radio cars are out watching all the possible roads. But I can't say I fancy our chances. It's a hell of an area to cover, especially at night.

[Porter]

What do you propose to do now? Pack it in?

[Roger West]

No, sir.

[Porter]

I should have known better than to ask.

[Roger West]

I suppose I may as well see the rest of the night out. Never can tell. Maybe the age of miracles isn't quite over.

[Porter]

Well, I know very little about miracles. But I do know it was Thomas Edison who said genius is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration. He might equally well have been referring to police work, eh, Roger? Good night.

[Julietta]

Is everything all right, Hendricks?

[Unknown Character]

Yes, fine. What was all that for? Why did you stop?

[Julietta]

A Last minute precaution, Mr. Grant. To be sure that we are not followed, since we are so near our destination.

[Unknown Character]

And where's that?

[Julietta]

Be patient. Let us wait until we arrive.

[Unknown Character]

You're enjoying this, aren't you? You and Corrosion are two of a kind, right enough. You get a kick out of keeping people on the rack. At least tell me if I'm going to see Chris. That's the only thing I care about. Well, it can't hurt you to tell me that, can it?

[Julietta]

It really matters so much. How strange to hold so much feeling for someone else.

[Unknown Character]

What the hell's strange about it? What kind of a woman are you? We've had just one day of our honeymoon, Chris and I. And your friend Corrosion turned even those first few hours into a nightmare. What's he done to her? Where's he got her?

[Julietta]

She has not been harmed. Her father told you so.

[Unknown Character]

It is the truth, Julietta. What's Corrosion want? Is it money? He can have every penny I've got. I'M worth near enough to a million.

[Julietta]

He does not want your money, Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

Then what she? Revenge? Is that it? Because I put a stop to his blackmail of my father?

[Julietta]

You will know very soon.

[Unknown Character]

We're turning off the road.

[Julietta]

Yes? We have arrived, Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

Wait a minute.

That line of populace. This driveway.

[Julietta]

Does it seem familiar?

[Unknown Character]

Yes, but that's crazy.

It couldn't be.

[Julietta]

In a moment you will see the house. There in the car headlights.

[Unknown Character]

This isn't possible.

[Julietta]

But it is your father's house. The home of Sir Mortimer Grant. You go into that room, Mr. Grant. There to your right, at the foot of the staircase. I don't need to tell you what room it is, do I? You know this house better than I do.

[Unknown Character]

Who's in there?

[Julietta]

Who would you expect? It is your father's study.

[Unknown Character]

Dad's here? But why is the place practically in darkness? And where's all the household staff?

[Julietta]

Ask your questions in the study, Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

I'll do just that. Dad.

Well, Michael.

Dad. What the blaze is going on here?

Would you want. Would you like a drink?

I'd like to know what's going on. Is Chris here in this house?

No, Mr. Grant.

What the corrosion.

Do you never look behind you on entering a room?

Dad? What's he doing here?

My kids. He's gone, Sir Mortimer. I think your son deserves an explanation.

Well, dad.

I'm sorry, boy. The fact of it is, he carries too many guns for me. For you, too. We have to do what he says, Mike.

What are you talking about? I settled all that nearly a year ago. Got all the stuff he had against you out of his flat.

Not all of it, Mr. Grant.

What?

Your frontal assault on my apartment could not be accurately described as an outright victory. Much as I regret to diminish your heroic stature, at least in your own eyes, if no others, I must tell you that the evidence you obtained was.

There are parts and then there are B Pro Auto parts. Parts built for every vehicle. Parts built to fit and function. Parts that are refining how we drive and redefining the category. Because every vehicle is a sum of its parts. So do yourself a favor and put B Pro Auto Parts on the vehicles you service. Parts now. Parts into the future. Welcome to the new aftermarket.

Only a part of the whole.

Dad. Is he telling the truth?

I never lie, dad. Yes, yes, it's true. Every word. The status quo has been restored. Your father once more takes his instructions from me. Indeed, he has been doing so ever since my return to England.

Why didn't you tell me this, dad?

What would have been the use, my boy? Very well. That will do some of them, huh? You are allowed to go? Yes, yes, all right. I'm sorry, mike. But you see how it is. I trust that you do indeed see how it is, Mr. Grant.

Corrosion. What's to stop me putting my hands around your throat right this minute and choking the life out of you?

Not a thing in the world, with the possible exception of your wife.

Your w. Where is she?

Safe for the moment.

All right. What do you want?

Brandy would be pleasant, I think. A poor one for me. And for yourself, of course.

I said, what do you want, corrosion?

And I have told you I'm waiting, mister. Car you for my brandy.

There it is.

I would prefer you to hand it to me.

All right.

Thank you.

Now, what do you want out of me? That girl julietta said it wasn't money.

Perfectly true. Not money and not revenge. I find myself in a forgiving frame of mind. Your father has learned his lesson, as you saw. He is quite content to obey me. As for you, I am prepared, as I said, to forget your gallant effort on his behalf. What's past is past. I am concerned far more with the.

Future, and it involves me.

In a way, you and your wife are a part of it. A small part, but not unimportant. Incidentally, she's charming. I like her. Reassure yourself. She's quite unblemished. I cannot guarantee that state of affairs to endure, however, unless, like your father, you obey me in every particular.

Well, what do I have to do?

Nothing too arduous. Simply return to uplands and stay there until further orders.

You made me come all this way from Dorset just to send me back there?

I made you come all this way from dorset so that you could receive a full and explicit appreciation of the situation.

I've got that, all right.

I should also explain to you that if I judge it necessary, an attempt may be made at uplands to kill you.

Kill me?

I said an attempt. You won't be hurt in any way. But if I decide it should take place, I shall expect you to react in the appropriate manner. To be very frightened, very worried.

I don't get this. I'm supposed to go back to the hotel, stay there like a sitting duck and yell blue murder if someone uses me for a target. What's it all in aid of?

My plans at this stage call for a decoy. A sitting duck, as you so neatly put it. You should fill the role excellently.

But why? What is it you're planning?

That has nothing to do with you. But it is something rather interesting. Now you understand quite clearly what I require of you.

I think so.

Be absolutely sure, Grant.

Yes, all right, damn you. I'll do what you say.

That's better.

Now, when can I see Chris?

I will decide that when the time comes. Ah, Julietta.

[Julietta]

Well, has Mr. Grant had the answers to all his questions?

[Unknown Character]

He has. Where's Hendricks?

[Julietta]

Outside in the hall, waiting.

[Unknown Character]

Very well. Hendricks will return you to London, Mr. Grant. Then you make your way back to dorset.

And what do I tell the police? Especially chief inspector west?

Most of the truth. You received a phone call. You came to a house in the hope of finding your wife, but she wasn't there. I needn't say that you will not mention the precise house. Tell west that you were blindfolded and put in a car. Oh, you can embroider it all very prettily, I'm quite sure. But alas, the whole affair turned out to be a wild goose chase.

You think west will swallow that? He's no fool, I might tell you.

Neither is corrosion. And please remember, my orders are to be followed meticulously. Otherwise, you'll never see your charming wife again. Now, you may go.

[Julietta]

Goodbye, Mr. Grant. Perhaps we will meet again.

[Unknown Character]

I prefer to hope not. Are you Hendricks? Yes.

[Porter]

All set?

[Unknown Character]

Certainly. Okay, let's go. The car's just over there. What?

[Roger West]

He wasn't much trouble was in.

[Unknown Character]

Who? The West.

[Roger West]

Corrosion's here, isn't he?

[Unknown Character]

Grant, where the devil have you sprung from? I.

[Roger West]

Never mind that. Now, you men. One of you get rid of chummy here. You, constable, drive the car away. Best if they believe Mr. Grant's gone. Yes, inspector. The other two stick with me. Now, Grant, where's corrosion?

[Unknown Character]

How did you get here?

[Roger West]

West call it a small miracle. One of the local bicycle bobbies spotted the rolls. We kept tabs on it. Radio contact all the time.

[Unknown Character]

If corrosion thinks I had any part in this, he'll kill christie.

[Roger West]

He won't get the chance. I have a dozen men watching this place. Corrosion hasn't a hope in hell I've got him at last. Now, where is he? What room? That one. The foot of the stairs.

[Unknown Character]

No, no, no. He was upstairs in. In my old room. Down the first passage, the end door on the left.

[Roger West]

Right. Did you say your room?

[Unknown Character]

This is my father's house.

[Roger West]

Well, this is your chance to get even. Lead the way, West.

[Unknown Character]

I. West, I've had a hell of a time. I'm. I'm just about all in.

[Roger West]

All right, you step on. You chaps, follow him. Move Quietly. First passage, last door on the left. Right. Nice and nippy. Up the stairs, lads.

[Unknown Character]

They're out of sight now, Grunge. Quiet.

Why are you here? I heard the car leaving.

That was the police.

[Roger West]

Police?

[Unknown Character]

West's here. He's got men all round the house.

[Julietta]

But how is that possible, Cruze? We were not followed. We checked.

[Unknown Character]

Be quiet, Juliet.

You can still get away. There's a way out through the cellars, an old tunnel. I found it when I was a kid. I'll show you.

Good. I will. Remember this, Grant, to your credit. Julietta, get my papers from the desk drawer. Then Grant will show us the way. Quickly now. We've no time to lose.

[Roger West]

You let him go, Grant. You warn Corrosion and let him get away.

[Unknown Character]

How could I? You found me where you left me, didn't you? Waiting out in the hole.

[Roger West]

Where was he? In this study. All the time. I had him right in my hands. Do you realize I could put you under arrest for obstructing the police in the course of their duty? And the same goes for your father. Chief Inspector, I suggest the less you say, the better. Sir, You've been sheltering a known criminal in your house.

[Unknown Character]

I've explained that. I did so under Jairus.

[Roger West]

Meaning what? Are you telling me he held a gun at your head the whole time? Don't play games with me, sir. Not tonight. I'm not in the mood.

[Unknown Character]

In my opinion, it's a fortunate thing you didn't get Corrosion.

[Roger West]

Have you any idea how long I've been after him? How often he's given me the slip?

[Unknown Character]

And he'd have done so again even.

[Roger West]

If you'd caught him tonight, like Eliwood.

[Unknown Character]

On what charge could you have held him, Inspector? Kidnapping my son's wife.

[Roger West]

That's just one item on a long, long list.

[Unknown Character]

But you haven't enough evidence to stand up in court, have you?

Dad's right. We know he did it. But how could you prove it?

[Roger West]

I'd have found proof once I had him.

[Unknown Character]

West. You just fine, Chris. For me. Get her back and I'll get Corrosion. I'll deliver him to you personally. I promise you that.

[Roger West]

Don't talk through the back of your neck and don't play heroes with me. You tried that once, remember? Busting into his flat all on your own. And where did it get you? Exactly Nowhere. For all your personal private eye caper, your father's still under Corrosion's thumb. That sticks out a mile. And now you're in the same boat.

[Unknown Character]

West Ham.

[Roger West]

Oh, don't say it. Just don't tell me you're sorry Right at this moment, that would be more than IKEA take. I'll trouble you gentlemen to leave this room. I'm going over it from top to bottom. Thank you.

[Porter]

Well, Roger, is that the whole story?

[Roger West]

Pretty well, sir. Go on. I feel like hell about it. Talk about being so near and yet so far.

[Porter]

Relax, Chief Inspector. Remember, Corrosion is just one more criminal. Dealing with criminals is your job. You won't do your job properly if you transform him into some kind of obsession. I have a notion I may have said something of the sort to you before.

[Roger West]

Yes, sir. No, but it's not so easy to do.

[Porter]

In which case, the quicker we lay him by the heels, the better for all concerned. Did the search of Sir Mortimer McGrath's house produce anything at all?

[Roger West]

Only one thing, sir. I'm not quite sure what to make of it. I've got it here in my wallet. Take a look, sir. I found that piece of paper in some Mortimer Grant's study caught in the corner of a drawer in his desk. There were a couple of empty folders, too. Crozier had obviously been using the room as his office.

[Porter]

And this was torn from a larger sheet of paper, by the look of it. There's three names on it.

[Roger West]

Notice how they're written, sir. One under the other part of a list, eh? The beginning of one and the names themselves.

[Porter]

Dahmer, Riversley Bar.

[Roger West]

Hardly the common or garden variety. Not too difficult to identify as Sir.

[Porter]

Arnold Dana, one of our foremost industrialists.

[Roger West]

And not exactly short in the bank balance. Runs well over the 2 million mark.

[Porter]

I'd say Lord Riversley owns more of London than you can cover in half a day's walk.

[Roger West]

And Laszlo Barai, Hungarian origin, naturalized British subject. Special Economic Advisor to the Ministry for National Expansion.

[Porter]

There's no great wealth there, though, from what I understand, small private income. And his salary, of course.

[Roger West]

Yes, that's the stumbling block.

[Porter]

How do you mean, Roger?

[Roger West]

At first sight, sir, I thought those three names must be part of a wholesale blackmail list of Corrosions. Only Ball eye doesn't quite fit, does he? I don't know.

[Porter]

As much on the same class as Dana and Riversley, of course, but little fish are sweet, as they say, even to Corrosion.

[Roger West]

I imagine you could be right, I suppose. Reasonable enough on the face of it, but.

[Porter]

But what?

[Roger West]

Oh, nothing definite, sir. Just a nagging notion I have that it's nothing really. The whole answer. I'd like to talk with each of these three eminent gentlemen. With your approval, sir.

[Porter]

Go ahead. By all means. What's the state of the polls where the grants father and son are concerned?

[Roger West]

Sir, Mortem is still in his house where I left him. Young grant was on his way down to dorset.

[Porter]

Back to the hotel, eh?

[Roger West]

Yes. Unless I'm very much mistaken, he'll be sitting in uplands waiting for further orders from corrosion. And I'd give a lot to know just what those orders are likely to be.

[Julietta]

It's ringing now.

[Roger West]

Hello?

[Julietta]

Good afternoon, Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

Who's that?

[Julietta]

You do not recognize my voice after our long drive together?

[Unknown Character]

Julietta.

[Julietta]

Yes, Mr. Grant.

[Unknown Character]

What do you want?

[Julietta]

I have someone here to speak to you.

[Unknown Character]

You mean Chris? Is it Chris? Hello? Hello?

I am here, Mr. Grant.

Corrosion.

I have some instructions for you. Listen carefully. After breakfast tomorrow, you will walk along the path through the shrubbery. An attempt will be made on your life, a bullet which will miss you. As a result, you will be extremely afraid and tell the priest that you are leaving uplands. You will go to skelborne on the kentucky coast. You know it?

Yes.

You will take a room at the excelsior hotel on the seafront and wait there for your next orders.

What's all this about?

You have been told all that you need to know.

[Julietta]

Goodbye, corrosion.

[Unknown Character]

What is it, Julietta, my dear, I.

[Julietta]

Have not been told all I need to know. What are you planning? A small surprise for michael grant?

[Unknown Character]

Oh, no. For someone of much greater importance. An astute police officer whose very astuteness might just conceivably prove a trifle troublesome for me in the future.

[Julietta]

You're speaking of west.

[Unknown Character]

He has laid many traps for me over the years, and I've escaped them all. Now I propose to reverse the procedure. And I assure you, Julietta, there will be no escape from my trap for chief inspector roger west.

You've been listening to patrick allen and sarah lawson in the third part of battle for inspector west by john creasy. Listen to bait for a bogey. The next episode of john fawcett Wilson's production of battle for inspector.