Dr Finlays Casebook 1970-06-02 Out of The Blue

Summary

Podcast Summary: Dr. Finlay's Casebook - "Out of The Blue"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: Dr Finlays Casebook 1970-06-02 Out of The Blue
• Release Date: July 30, 2025

Overview: "Out of The Blue" is a classic episode from the beloved series Dr. Finlay's Casebook, adapted for radio from the original television series based on A.J. Cronin's characters. This episode delves into the challenges faced by Dr. Finlay and his team as they navigate personal and professional conflicts, particularly focusing on the arrival of Dr. Cameron's nephew, Bruce Cameron, whose intentions threaten the harmonious operation of the Arden House practice.

---

1. Arrival of Bruce Cameron

Timestamp: [02:24]

The episode begins with Nurse Belle bringing concerns about Dr. Cameron, only for Bruce Cameron, his nephew, to unexpectedly arrive at Arden House. Bruce expresses his intentions to assist his uncle but inadvertently sows seeds of tension.

• Bruce Cameron: "I'm Dr. Cameron's nephew, Bruce." ([02:36])
• Janet: "Oh, aye, aye. Just come on. Come on way through." ([02:39])

Key Points:

• Bruce arrives late at night, indicating urgency.
• He informs Janet about Dr. Finlay's worsening pneumonia.
• His presence introduces potential complications to the practice's dynamics.

---

2. Tensions Rise Over Oxygen Supply

Timestamp: [09:05]

Bruce takes initiative to assist with Dr. Finlay's treatment by administering oxygen, bypassing Janet. This action leads to a confrontation, highlighting differing approaches to patient care.

• Janet: "What the hell do you think you're doing?" ([08:20])
• Bruce Cameron: "I had to do something, Dr. Finley. He was on the bridge." ([08:22])

Key Points:

• Bruce's authoritative intervention contrasts with Janet's professional protocol.
• The scarcity of resources (oxygen) exacerbates the tension.
• Janet suspects Bruce's motives, sensing ulterior intentions behind his actions.

---

3. Bruce's Proposal and Ambitions

Timestamp: [22:37]

In a pivotal scene, Bruce proposes marriage to Janet as a strategic move to secure control over the Arden House practice. This proposal is laced with ulterior motives, revealing his true intentions.

• Bruce Cameron: "You might marry me, for instance." ([22:37])
• Dr. Cameron: "Marry? I feel I ought to say. This is so sudden, Dr. Cameron." ([22:42])

Key Points:

• Bruce uses marriage as leverage to gain professional control.
• Janet remains skeptical, understanding the manipulative undertones.
• The proposal threatens the integrity and future of the Arden House practice.

---

4. Dr. Finlay's Realization and Confrontation

Timestamp: [20:39]

Dr. Finlay uncovers Bruce's true intentions to take over the practice, leading to a confrontation that challenges family loyalty and professional ethics.

• Dr. Finlay: "It shall not fall into the wrong hands." ([21:02])
• Janet: "Dr. Cameron, this nephew of yours walked into this house... to take over from you, dead or alive." ([21:02])

Key Points:

• Dr. Finlay confronts Janet about Bruce's manipulative actions.
• Evidence is presented that Bruce resigned from his London practice to inherit Arden House.
• The integrity of the practice is at stake, forcing difficult decisions.

---

5. Resolution and Bruce's Refusal

Timestamp: [26:33]

The climax unfolds as Bruce is presented with the terms of taking over the practice. Faced with Dr. Finlay's unwavering stance, Bruce ultimately refuses, leading to a fragile reconciliation.

• Dr. Finlay: "It's a deed of gift... I thought you might like to see them." ([25:17])
• Bruce Cameron: "Then I'm afraid I must refuse." ([26:33])
• Dr. Cameron: "Dr. Cameron, you've got yourself a wife." ([23:40])

Key Points:

• Dr. Finlay offers Bruce a formal agreement to take over the practice, emphasizing commitment.
• Bruce's refusal is rooted in personal grounds, hinting at unresolved conflicts.
• The episode concludes with an uneasy peace, leaving future implications open.

---

6. Conclusion and Reflections

Timestamp: [27:43]

In the aftermath, relationships are strained but not broken. Dr. Finlay reflects on past misjudgments, and Nurse Belle stands by Janet, reinforcing the importance of trust and teamwork in their medical practice.

• Dr. Finlay: "Sometimes I think I'm an old fool." ([27:15])
• Janet: "I think I owe you an apology too, Doctor." ([27:37])

Key Points:

• Dr. Finlay acknowledges his own vulnerabilities and mistakes.
• The solidarity among the Arden House team is reaffirmed.
• The episode closes on a note of introspection and the resilience of professional bonds.

---

Notable Quotes:

1. Bruce Cameron on Arrival:

   • "I better make it, Bruce. Otherwise it's only going to be confusing." ([03:09])

2. Janet's Skepticism:

   • "You can tell you that he is not the man for the job." ([21:42])

3. Dr. Finlay's Determination:

   • "I shall be handing over the house and my share of the practice to my nephew, Bruce." ([20:25])

4. Bruce's Manipulative Proposition:

   • "What would you say if I told you you were about to marry the successor to the Arden house practice." ([23:24])

5. Dr. Finlay's Admission:

   • "Sometimes I think I'm an old fool." ([27:15])

---

Final Thoughts: "Out of The Blue" masterfully intertwines personal drama with professional dilemmas, showcasing the complexities of familial relationships within a medical practice. Through rich character interactions and moral confrontations, the episode underscores themes of trust, ambition, and the ethical challenges inherent in healthcare. For listeners unfamiliar with the series, this episode offers a compelling glimpse into the enduring struggles and triumphs of Dr. Finlay and his dedicated team at Arden House.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Doctor Finlay's Casebook Adapted for radio from the television series Based on the characters created by AJ Cronin. With Andrew Cruikshank as Dr. Cameron, Barbara Mullen as Janet, and Bill Simpson as Dr. Finlay. This week, out of the Blue Written and adapted by Pat Dunlop.

[Dr. Finlay]

Who's there?

[Dr. Cameron]

It's all right, Dr. Cameron. It's no spell. I'm just checking your temperature. Come in.

[Nurse Belle]

I brought some hot milk, no spare.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, thank you, Ms. McPherson. Will you just put it down over there? Why, sir, that cup's a bit old.

[Nurse Belle]

Are you sure it's clean? Nurse Bale, I do not feed my doctor's dirty crockery.

[Dr. Cameron]

I'm sure you do the best with the methods at your disposal.

[Nurse Belle]

That feeder is as clean, if not cleaner, than anything that ever came out of one of your hospital kitchens.

[Dr. Cameron]

You're entitled to your opinion, Ms. McPherson. Now I must ask you to leave, Nurse Bell.

[Nurse Belle]

You are very young, Ms. McPherson.

[Dr. Cameron]

I insist.

[Nurse Belle]

There.

[Dr. Cameron]

You see?

[Nurse Belle]

Very well, Nurse Bell. I go.

[Dr. Cameron]

All the same. My dear Ms. McPherson. A good wash will do it no harm.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Finlay.

[Janet]

Mm?

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, dear.

[Janet]

Oh. What is it, Janet?

[Nurse Belle]

I'm sorry, Dr. Finlay. I did not realize you were asleep.

[Janet]

No, only resting. Janet, is. Is Dr. Cameron all right?

[Nurse Belle]

He's about the same. Dr. Finlay, that nurse. Who can that be at this time of night?

[Janet]

You stay here, Janet. I'll go.

[Bruce Cameron]

Good evening, Dr. Finley.

[Janet]

Hi.

[Bruce Cameron]

The name is Cameron. Dr. Cameron.

[Janet]

Oh, hi. You'd better come in.

[Bruce Cameron]

Thank you.

[Janet]

Cameron, did you say?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. Yes. I'm Dr. Cameron's nephew, Bruce.

[Janet]

Oh, aye, aye. Just come on. Come on way through.

[Bruce Cameron]

Caught the midday train from London. I'm sorry to descend on you so late. I'd forgotten what time you go to bed.

[Janet]

In the provinces, there'll not be much going to bed tonight. Janet, this is Dr. Bruce Cameron, Ms. Macpherson.

[Nurse Belle]

Well, I would never have recognized you.

[Bruce Cameron]

That's not surprising. I was only 17 last time I was in this backwater. How is my uncle?

[Janet]

Oh, it's pneumonia. I'm afraid he's in a bad way, Dr. Cameron.

[Bruce Cameron]

Look, you better make it, Bruce. Otherwise it's only going to be confusing.

[Janet]

Right. Yes. He climbed halfway up a mountain in the freezing weather to treat an accident case.

[Bruce Cameron]

He's a bit old to be doing that sort of thing, isn't he?

[Janet]

I was away.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, yes. Well, can I see him, do you think?

[Janet]

Oh, you can, of course, but I doubt if he'll recognize you.

[Nurse Belle]

I'll take you to his room, Doctor.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, no, don't worry. I'll find my own way.

[Nurse Belle]

As you wish. Up the stairs. And it's the room at the front of the house. The nurses with them.

[Dr. Cameron]

Now, come along, Dr. Cameron. You must take some nourishment to take it away.

[Janet]

Woman.

[Bruce Cameron]

How is he?

[Dr. Cameron]

Well, he's not fit to see visitors.

[Nurse Belle]

Are you a friend?

[Bruce Cameron]

A lesson? His only one, as far as I know. Hello, Uncle Angus. It's Bruce.

[Dr. Finlay]

You've left it a little late, man.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, I'm sorry, Uncle. My practice is important, you know. What's his temperature, Nurse?

[Dr. Cameron]

Isn't that a matter for Dr. Finchley?

[Bruce Cameron]

This is chart 103. Eh?

[Dr. Cameron]

I. I appreciate that he's your uncle, but you.

[Bruce Cameron]

I should have introduced myself, nurse. Dr. Cameron the second.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, well, I'm sorry.

[Bruce Cameron]

Sorry. It's not your fault. What's her name?

[Dr. Cameron]

Belle.

[Bruce Cameron]

The first name, Nurse. As you wish, Nurse. Belle. I say, he's not looking too good. Asthma too. Is that oxygen cylinder over there? Is it full?

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, yes, Doctor.

[Bruce Cameron]

We've got a funnel up here.

[Dr. Cameron]

It's all ready, Doctor.

[Nurse Belle]

Here.

[Bruce Cameron]

You've given oxygen before?

[Dr. Cameron]

No, but Dr. Findlay was showing me how.

[Bruce Cameron]

Lord, this equipment. It's a bit primitive, isn't it?

[Dr. Cameron]

Like everything else around here.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, we'll have to make the best of it. You just hold that lightly over his mouth and nose. Now, don't press on it now. Ah, he's certainly responding.

[Janet]

What the hell do you think you're doing?

[Bruce Cameron]

I had to do something, Dr. Finley. He was on the bridge.

[Janet]

You should have called me. He's my patient.

[Bruce Cameron]

He's also my uncle.

[Janet]

Are you thinking Think about that?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yeah.

[Janet]

Let me take it.

[Bruce Cameron]

What do you mean?

[Janet]

Well, I haven't seen his will, but I presume you're his only beneficiary.

[Bruce Cameron]

I don't like your tone, Doctor.

[Janet]

Well, it can't look good, can it, unless McPherson's making some coffee. You'd better go and have some.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. Well, you'll call me if.

[Janet]

Aye. Aye, aye, of course. Just lift the fellow a bit, Nurse. He can't breathe out. You should have called me.

[Dr. Cameron]

I was on my way to fetch you, but.

[Janet]

Aye. Aye. Aye.

[Dr. Finlay]

Sorry.

[Janet]

I understand. Dr. Cameron. Dr. Cameron, do you hear me?

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah, Ms. McPherson. Dr. Finley said there'd be some coffee.

[Nurse Belle]

It is right here and ready for you.

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah, thank you very much. Is it busy, practice?

[Nurse Belle]

Busy enough to keep two good men on their feet most of the day and half the night.

[Bruce Cameron]

They'll be mostly panel patients, I suppose.

[Nurse Belle]

I'm sure I would not know one from the other. We've only the one waiting room.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, the distinction's a simple one. It's the difference between the rich and the poor.

[Nurse Belle]

The only difference I've heard the doctors mention is between the sick and the where.

[Bruce Cameron]

How is he?

[Janet]

He's just conscious. But I do for long. He's asking for you, Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

Why? I go up.

[Bruce Cameron]

I better go up, too.

[Janet]

No, no, we're running low on oxygen. Bruce, do you drive?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes, of course I do.

[Janet]

Well, I can't leave him for long. Will you take my car down to the cottage hospital and get another cylinder? Here are the keys.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. How do I get there?

[Janet]

Well, it's only just up the road. And when you get to the bottom of the drive, you turn left and then you go straight as far as the railway bridge.

[Nurse Belle]

He sent for me, Nurse Bear. Can he still talk?

[Dr. Cameron]

I think he's awake.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Cameron. You wanted me, Dr. Cameron?

[Dr. Finlay]

Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

Is there something I can do for you, Doctor?

[Dr. Finlay]

It's a long time, Janet. 17 years.

[Nurse Belle]

Aye, doctor. 17 years.

[Dr. Finlay]

I'm grateful to you, Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

You've no need to be, Doctor.

[Dr. Finlay]

I am an old fool, Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, wish, Doctor, that is quite untrue.

[Dr. Finlay]

It should have been said years ago. I'd like you to.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Cameron. Doctor. Nurse Bell. What is the matter with him?

[Dr. Cameron]

He needs more oxygen. Fetch Dr. Finley quickly.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes, it's all right.

[Janet]

Yes, it's all right. That's the way. That's. Yeah, I'll just switch it on now.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Finley.

[Janet]

No, he's still holding his own. Just. He's got hardly any breathing area.

[Nurse Belle]

Will he get through the night?

[Janet]

If he does, it could be the saving of him. As long as his lungs keep taking some of this oxygen, he still has a chance, Doctor. Hey, Nussbel, you need some sleep.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, I'm all right, Doctor, really.

[Janet]

Don't argue. We'll need you later. You're too tired now to look after a patient.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, yes, Doctor. Will you take the funnel now?

[Janet]

Janet can handle that, thank you.

[Dr. Cameron]

Good night.

[Janet]

Good night, nurse.

[Nurse Belle]

Good night, nurse.

[Janet]

Now, just hold it up a wee bit, Janet. If we could only get him through the next hour. Now, that nephew of his should have been back by now.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Finley.

[Janet]

Oh, damn. We're out of oxygen. Where the hell has that man got to? Janet, go and telephone the cottage hospital.

[Nurse Belle]

That'll be him now, Doctor.

[Janet]

Thank God. We'll get him straight up here.

[Nurse Belle]

I will, Doctor.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, come on, man. Come on.

[Janet]

Just hang on, Dr. Carroll. Just hang on. Ah, there you are.

[Bruce Cameron]

Sorry to offend, sir.

[Janet]

Now, over here, quick.

[Bruce Cameron]

Had to walk Halfway. I've ditched your car. I'm afraid it's dead, Ben. By the railway bridge. The road sl.

[Janet]

That's all, Doctor. Now the key, man. Where's the key?

[Bruce Cameron]

Key? Oh, damn it. Well, they didn't give me one.

[Janet]

For heaven's sake, Dr. Finley, if it.

[Nurse Belle]

Is the thing for turning it on you want, there is one on the other tube.

[Janet]

Thanks, Janet. Damn thing stuck.

[Bruce Cameron]

Here, let me do it. Oh, come on. I mustn't be jammed.

[Nurse Belle]

It can't be.

[Janet]

Now hold it up. Right. I. That's it. That's got it. Here, quick. Over his mouth. Quickly, though.

[Nurse Belle]

How do you think he is, doctor?

[Janet]

Oh, he's breathing easier. 99.2. That's better. Well, I think thus Bill can take a Whip.

[Nurse Belle]

He's stirring. Dr. Finley. Who? Dr. Cameron.

[Dr. Finlay]

Janet. It's been a long night, Dr. Finley.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Cameron.

[Janet]

Aye, Dr. Cameron, it has a long night.

[Dr. Finlay]

Away at your beds, both of you.

[Janet]

Janet. Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

Janet. Oh, good morning, Dr. Finley. Morning.

[Janet]

Do you know what time it is?

[Nurse Belle]

Just after midday. Why didn't you call me up till 5 o' clock this morning? You had had four hours sleep in three days.

[Janet]

But what about the surgery?

[Nurse Belle]

Surgery was taken by young Dr. Cameron and he's away on the outside calls now. Oh, well, that'll be him back. Would you excuse me, Dr. Finley?

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah, morning, Doctor.

[Janet]

I'm very grateful to you, Bruce. I. I needed that sleep.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, by the way, the garage pulled your car out of the ditch.

[Janet]

I'd forgotten about that.

[Bruce Cameron]

I'd picked up the bill for you. Here you are.

[Janet]

Thanks. Did you see anything interesting on the road?

[Bruce Cameron]

Only Mrs. Moncrieff and her twingies.

[Janet]

I'd hardly call that interesting. There's nothing wrong with her.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, no, but she loves a visit from the doctor. She says you only see her about once a month.

[Janet]

He's nuts and indulgence.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, I've got her down for another call tomorrow.

[Janet]

What for?

[Bruce Cameron]

Damn it, man, she's a gold mine. You can build a practice on people like her.

[Janet]

Well, you'll be wanting to get back to your own. I'd better do something about a locum.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, there's no hurry.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, I'm sorry.

[Bruce Cameron]

It's all right, Nurse. I was just coming. You know, Nurse, Belle's had it pretty rough these past few days. I'm going to take her out to lunch.

[Janet]

Good. She deserves a break.

[Dr. Cameron]

Thank you, Dr. Findlay.

[Bruce Cameron]

Can you recommend anyone?

[Janet]

Well, you could try the Glen Royal. You'll find it a wee bit pricey.

[Bruce Cameron]

Don't worry, my share of. Mrs. Moncrief will take care of that. See you later.

[Dr. Finlay]

Janet.

[Nurse Belle]

Yes, Dr. Cameron.

[Dr. Finlay]

What is the time, Janet?

[Nurse Belle]

It's nearly 1 o'. Clock. How are you feeling?

[Dr. Finlay]

As well as can be expected is the phrase we use.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, that's well enough, Doctor, after a night like last night. Oh, here now. Let me tidy your bed while you're away.

[Dr. Finlay]

Don't fuss, woman.

[Nurse Belle]

Well, your tone has changed since last night, Doctor.

[Dr. Finlay]

Change?

[Nurse Belle]

Hi, Doctor.

[Janet]

Oh, how's the patient?

[Dr. Finlay]

Well, thank you.

[Nurse Belle]

In some ways he's right back to normal.

[Janet]

I think we'd better start building you up. Could you manage some broth?

[Nurse Belle]

I have some cockaliki on the range now, Doctor. It's been waiting for you to come on.

[Janet]

Yes, get it.

[Nurse Belle]

Janet, I. Dr. Tinley.

[Janet]

Dr. Cameron. I don't want to trouble you just yet, but we ought to be doing something about getting a locum.

[Dr. Finlay]

Is Bruce not helping?

[Janet]

Aye. Aye, he is. But he'll be wanting to go back to London eventually.

[Dr. Finlay]

We'd better just wait and see. He may have other plans.

[Janet]

I invited that. I wonder what they are.

[Dr. Cameron]

If you must know, it's Marjorie. I've never been particularly fond of it.

[Bruce Cameron]

It's a downside better than a nurse. What do you fancy to eat?

[Dr. Cameron]

It's a bit provincial, isn't it?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes, I see what you mean. It's not much choice.

[Dr. Cameron]

It's always the same in these small towns. It doesn't matter how big the hotel. The menu is always the same. Salmon or mutton.

[Bruce Cameron]

You don't like small towns?

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, no. I like a bit of life about.

[Bruce Cameron]

Me uncle's going to need nursing for at least another fortnight.

[Dr. Cameron]

But they've got dear Janet.

[Bruce Cameron]

Janet's a good, faithful old retainer as far as housekeeping goes.

[Dr. Cameron]

We can get another nurse.

[Bruce Cameron]

I'll make a bargain with you. If you decide to keep with the job, I'll stay on as well.

[Dr. Cameron]

Isn't that just a wee bit conceited?

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, it's the way I'm mad.

[Dr. Cameron]

All right, then, Dr. Cameron, it's a deal.

[Janet]

Good. That's three days now. Your temperature's been normal.

[Dr. Finlay]

I know it. I bet you, Dr. Finlay, this illness has made me very much aware of my age and my limitations.

[Janet]

Well, supposing you did have to think of retirement, have you decided what you would do about the practice?

[Dr. Finlay]

The question is hypothetical, Dr. Finlay. However, you have my assurance that I will do everything possible to see that it. It does not fall into the wrong hands. If that makes you any happier.

[Janet]

It does. It Certainly does.

[Bruce Cameron]

There's no doubt about it, Mrs. Moncrieff. There are definite signs of improvement.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

Now, Dr. Cameron, not so much that you could afford to leave me off your list for three days running.

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah, well, it was not an oversight, I assure you, Mrs. Moncrieff. It's a busy time in the practice just now.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

How is your uncle?

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, he's fine, thank you. I think we'll change the prescription. Oh, there's a new treatment I'd like you to try. We've been having great success with it in Harley Street.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

You've done me so much good, Dr. Cameron. It'll be a great wrench when you have to leave us.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, who said anything about leaving?

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

Well, with your uncle on the men, now you'll be wanting to get back to London.

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah, well, I'm in no hurry. There. Let's see how you get on with that.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

Thank you, Doctor.

[Bruce Cameron]

And don't worry. I shall be around for some time yet. Good day.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

Good day, Dr. Cameron.

[Nurse Belle]

Can I help you, Nurse Bear?

[Dr. Cameron]

It's quite all right, Ms. McPherson. I was just looking for an egg for Dr. Cameron.

[Nurse Belle]

They are here, Nurse. You had only to ask, and I would be obliged if you would.

[Dr. Cameron]

I didn't want to put you to any trouble.

[Nurse Belle]

It is no trouble. I have been boiling eggs for Dr. Cameron for some time. And I know where to find them and how to cook them.

[Dr. Cameron]

There's no need to take that attitude, Ms. McFashion. It's only an egg.

[Nurse Belle]

You would not like it, Nurse Baird, if I were to walk into your sick room and start giving medicines.

[Dr. Cameron]

I doubt if the patient would either.

[Nurse Belle]

Then let us agree that I will not give your medicines if you do not do my cooking.

[Dr. Cameron]

Don't worry. You'll not catch me doing that. You know, you're a great warning to me, Ms. McPherson. The way you've thrown your life away for that old man. Washing and cooking and skiving and not even married to him.

[Nurse Belle]

That would be quite enough.

[Dr. Cameron]

Are you afraid to listen to the truth?

[Nurse Belle]

In my opinion, nurse bearer, Dr. Cameron has had all the nursing he needs from you.

[Dr. Cameron]

I'll leave this house when my patient is mended.

[Nurse Belle]

That is as may be, but you leave my kitchen right now.

[Dr. Cameron]

Good morning, Ms. McPherson.

[Dr. Finlay]

Well, that is my suggestion, Bruce. I would like you to give it your careful consideration.

[Bruce Cameron]

You said anything to Finlay?

[Dr. Finlay]

Not yet. I'd like you to have a chance to mull it over first. How are you getting along?

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, I must say, Uncle, I do find him a little stuffy at times.

[Dr. Finlay]

You should not be hasty in assessing him. You can learn a great deal from Dr. Finlay. I have done so myself in the past.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes, of course. Well, I must be off. I promised to take to go out to lunch. I'll let you know tonight, Uncle Angus.

[Janet]

Five guineas. Ten guineas.

[Bruce Cameron]

And 25.

[Janet]

And three is.

[Nurse Belle]

You're back, Dr. Finley.

[Janet]

Hi, Janet. Just a minute. There was another visit last month. Janet. Have you been moving these accounts at all?

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Findlay, I never touch anything on that desk. And will you know it?

[Janet]

Well, somebody's been shuffling through them.

[Nurse Belle]

I doubt it would take a detective to find the answer to that.

[Janet]

He's got a dumb nerve.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, Dr. Finley, something has happened to this house.

[Janet]

Be patient. Just be patient. Janet. Young Bruce can't stay away from his patients once longer. Just another couple of days and we'll be shot at a pair of them.

[Nurse Belle]

I hope you're right. Pardon? House. No, I'm afraid he's not. Oh, I see. Would you hold on, please? Mrs. Moncrieff needs a doctor right away.

[Janet]

I'll tell her to wait till Bruce gets back. There's never anything wrong with her.

[Nurse Belle]

Well, there is this time. She has called at her foot.

[Janet]

All right. Tell her I'm coming.

[Dr. Cameron]

Hello.

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Findlay will be over right away.

[Janet]

Yeah. Now, that'll see it all right for a bit, Mrs. McCreef. I'll be round to have another look in a day or two.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

If it's all the same to you, would you mind asking young Dr. Cameron to come and see it this afternoon?

[Janet]

Why, there's nothing he can do that I haven't done already.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

It's just that Dr. Bruce seems to be so much more up to date than the average country doctor. I suppose he would be coming from Harley Street.

[Janet]

Harley Street? Just for your information, Mrs. Van Creeve, Dr. Cameron's practice is in the East End of London.

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

I think you have your facts wrong, Doctor. Either way, wherever he comes from, he's going to be very popular around here.

[Janet]

Going to be? Look, do you mind telling me exactly what he's been saying?

[Mrs. Moncrieff]

Of course not. He told me quite clearly that he would be.

[Janet]

Dr. Cameron, it's about time we had a word about that nephew of yours.

[Dr. Finlay]

Has he said something to you, Dr. Finlay? What about Dr. Finlay? After very careful deliberation, I have decided that I shall not be going back to work. And I shall be handing over the house and my share of the practice to my nephew, Bruce.

[Nurse Belle]

What?

[Dr. Finlay]

It will not, of course, in any way affect your own interest in the partnership.

[Janet]

Not Much is what you realize. You played right into his hands.

[Dr. Finlay]

I do not understand your man.

[Janet]

Dr. Cameron, this nephew of yours walked into this house when you were at death's door with the sole intention of taking over from you, dead or alive.

[Dr. Finlay]

You have proof of this?

[Janet]

Yes. He resigned from his London practice before he came up here.

[Dr. Finlay]

How'd you know that? Has he told you?

[Janet]

No, but I've just telephoned one of his assistants in London, a Dr. Herbert Bruce. Told them he was leaving to take over a family practice in Scotland.

[Dr. Finlay]

That was presumptuous of him. All the same, Dr. Phil can make no difference to my decision.

[Janet]

But it should make all the difference in the world.

[Dr. Finlay]

I do not see why Bruce had the right to expect to inherit. He's my own brother's son.

[Janet]

Dr. Cameron, you are not dying by.

[Dr. Finlay]

Handing over in retirement. I am merely anticipating the terms of my own will. I am entitled to do that, Dr. Finn.

[Janet]

Ay, ay, you are.

[Dr. Finlay]

Of course it is perhaps not an ideal arrangement, but he is a blood relation and a qualified doctor.

[Janet]

I can understand you wanting to keep it in the family, but I've worked with Bruce and I can tell you that he is not the man for the job.

[Dr. Finlay]

If that is true, Dr. Findlay, it's unfortunate, but I do not see what Elsa can do.

[Janet]

I'm sorry, but I do.

[Dr. Finlay]

What's that?

[Janet]

You can give him my half of the practice as well.

[Bruce Cameron]

How do you think the old boy is now Nursery?

[Dr. Cameron]

She's fine. I think I could get out of this place tomorrow.

[Bruce Cameron]

Ah. I should stay around for a day or two if I were yield. Things are liable to be happening shortly.

[Dr. Cameron]

Things?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yeah, interesting developments.

[Dr. Cameron]

Oh, well, that's all very well, but I'm steadily going broke. I could be earning half as much again in Morningside.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, there are other sources of gain besides professional fees.

[Dr. Cameron]

How do you mean?

[Bruce Cameron]

You might marry me, for instance.

[Dr. Cameron]

Marry? I feel I ought to say. This is so sudden, Dr. Cameron.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes, of course it's sudden, Marjorie, to expect a proposal to go on and on like a magazine serial.

[Dr. Cameron]

But we've only known each other a fortnight.

[Bruce Cameron]

It's part of a doctor stock in tread to make a quick decision. I expect a nurse to have the.

[Dr. Cameron]

Same attributes or all the same. I must have time to think it over. Isn't that what I should be saying?

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. And I'm willing to give you time. Some more wine? There. Is that time enough?

[Dr. Cameron]

Almost. I'm just a wee bit worried about your prospects.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, what would you say if I told you you Were about to marry the successor to the Arden house practice.

[Dr. Cameron]

Seriously?

[Bruce Cameron]

Seriously. My uncle is giving me the house and his half of the partnership. Lock, stock.

[Dr. Cameron]

Now, just a minute. You don't think I'm going to marry you just to hibernate in this dump for the rest of my days.

[Bruce Cameron]

Hear me out, Marjorie. In a few days, the whole thing will be handed over legally. And Uncle Angus will be away to the hills for his well deserved retirement. All we have to do is stay long enough to find a buyer and.

[Dr. Cameron]

To sack Janet McPherson. Dr. Cameron, you've got yourself a wife.

[Bruce Cameron]

Splendid. We'll have another bottle. Waiter.

[Nurse Belle]

Are you not perhaps being a little hasty, Dr. Finley? What will you do?

[Janet]

I'll do what I intended to do last month, Janet. I'll send in my acceptance of a place in medical school. But it's you I'm worried about.

[Nurse Belle]

It's very kind of you, but I think my path is clear.

[Janet]

How?

[Nurse Belle]

Dr. Findlay? In all of 17 years, Dr. Cameron has never learned to look after himself. And he's not likely to learn in his retirement. I'll go with him. Dr. Cameron.

[Dr. Finlay]

It is all right, Janet. I have my doctor's permission to be out of bed. Is that not so, Dr. Finn?

[Janet]

That's right.

[Dr. Finlay]

Has Bruce not returned yet?

[Nurse Belle]

I haven't seen him or Nurse Bell either.

[Dr. Finlay]

A pity. I wanted to speak to him. And I should like both of you to hear what I have to say.

[Nurse Belle]

I think that is them now. Dr.

[Dr. Finlay]

Bruce, would you come in here a moment?

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, Uncle Angus, you're up.

[Dr. Finlay]

I am up.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, well, you're just in time to celebrate with us. Marge and I are getting married.

[Dr. Finlay]

Congratulations.

[Nurse Belle]

Thanks. Nice.

[Bruce Cameron]

Thank you.

[Janet]

Very pleased.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. Shall we all have a dram?

[Dr. Finlay]

Later. Later. I'd like to have a word with you first. I am advised that the best way to complete our transaction is by a deed of gift. I've drafted out the main points. I thought you might like to see them.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, I'm sure you'll have taken care of everything admirably, Uncle.

[Dr. Finlay]

Plead it, man.

[Bruce Cameron]

Oh, if you insist. What's this bit, Uncle? Covenant?

[Dr. Finlay]

It merely says that you undertake to live in Arden House and operate the practice personally for at least five years.

[Nurse Belle]

Narpus. No.

[Bruce Cameron]

You're firm about this?

[Dr. Finlay]

Afraid I must be.

[Bruce Cameron]

Yes. It's very difficult for a man to look that far ahead. And I have to consider my London practice. Could we not perhaps make it two years?

[Nurse Belle]

No, Bruce.

[Dr. Finlay]

No, I could not consider that.

[Bruce Cameron]

Well, I'm sure I could find a good doctor. I could. As it Were run the practice by proxy.

[Dr. Finlay]

I could do that very well myself. I already have one Excellent, Doctor. Oh, I'm sorry, but the terms are there for you to take or leave.

[Bruce Cameron]

Then I'm afraid I must refuse.

[Dr. Finlay]

On what grounds?

[Bruce Cameron]

Personal grounds, Uncle. Personal grounds. Right, Marjorie.

[Dr. Cameron]

Right, Bruce.

[Dr. Finlay]

Then there's no more to be said.

[Bruce Cameron]

Bye, Uncle.

[Nurse Belle]

Hi, Dr. Cameron.

[Bruce Cameron]

They're away, Janet.

[Dr. Finlay]

Dr. Finley has seen them.

[Bruce Cameron]

To the taxi.

[Nurse Belle]

Hey, Doctor. Oh, I can't help thinking that it is all for the best.

[Dr. Finlay]

It does not alter the fact Dr. Finley still has to find a new partner.

[Nurse Belle]

I have no doubt he will make a wise choice, Dr. Cameron, if he is to be allowed his choice.

[Dr. Finlay]

Janet.

[Bruce Cameron]

Janet.

[Dr. Finlay]

Sometimes I think I'm an old fool.

[Nurse Belle]

So you said on the night that you were bad.

[Dr. Finlay]

Did I, Janet? I don't remember.

[Nurse Belle]

There they go.

[Janet]

Ah, well, that's that, eh?

[Dr. Finlay]

Donna Finlay, I think perhaps you were right to mistrust my nepotistic instincts. I'd be obliged if you put it down to my illness.

[Nurse Belle]

Nepotistic?

[Dr. Finlay]

Never mind that now, Janet.

[Janet]

I think I owe you an apology too, Doctor.

[Dr. Finlay]

Nonsense, nonsense.

[Janet]

I'll get it out in the house. Dr. Finley here right now. Don't touch him. I'll be there in 10 minutes. That's an accident in the distillery. Janet, will you tell the surgery patients to wait or else come back tonight?

[Nurse Belle]

I will, Dr. Finley. Well, I. Tell them in the waiting room.

[Dr. Finlay]

There is no hurry, Janet. I was thinking that perhaps if there.

[Nurse Belle]

Is nothing too exacting, you could take surgery yourself.

[Dr. Finlay]

The thought crossed my mind.

[Nurse Belle]

You are in retirement, Doctor.

[Dr. Finlay]

I've always had the fear, Janet, that when the time came, I might have difficulty in distinguishing between retirement and stagnation.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, I.

[Dr. Finlay]

Doctor, in the circumstances, perhaps I might postpone the dilemma. Just for a day or two. You understand.

[Nurse Belle]

Oh, I understand, don't you? I understand.

[Dr. Finlay]

Ah, come in. Mr. Cranston. How are you these days?

[Dr. Cameron]

Foreign.

[Narrator]

You've been listening to out of the Blue, written and adapted by Pat Dunlop from the television series of Dr. Finlay's casebook. Based on the characters created by A.J. cronin and broadcast by arrangement with Graham Stewart. The cast was as follows. Dr. Cameron, Andrew Cruikshank, Janet Barbara Mullen, Dr. Finlay, Bill Simpson, Nurse Belle, Hannah Gordon, Bruce Cameron, Anthony Valentine, Mrs. Moncrief, Margot Boyd. The program was produced by Peter Titherid.

[Bruce Cameron]

Sam.