Inspector West 67-05-25 (104) Battle for Inspector West - Bait for a Bogey

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Battle for Inspector West: Bait for a Bogey

Podcast Information

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: A collection of radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of a time when families gathered around the radio to enjoy classics like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, and Dragnet.
• Episode: Inspector West 67-05-25 (104) Battle for Inspector West - Bait for a Bogey
• Release Date: June 20, 2025

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Introduction

Battle for Inspector West: Bait for a Bogey is the fourth installment in the thrilling Battle for Inspector West series, dramatized for radio by Morris Travers and based on John Crease's novel. This episode delves deeper into the cat-and-mouse game between the astute Chief Inspector Roger West of Scotland Yard and his elusive adversary, Corrosion. Featuring Patrick Allen as Inspector West and Sarah Lawson as his wife, Janet, the episode masterfully blends suspense, intricate plot twists, and rich character development, embodying the charm of old-time radio dramas.

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Setting the Scene (00:00 - 00:42)

The episode opens with an Expedia commercial, humorously contrasting the tranquility of a beachside hotel with the restless nights of a weary traveler. This brief interruption sets the stage before transitioning into the main narrative.

Notable Quote:

Ben: “You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights and hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia Made to travel.” [00:00]

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Plot Overview

Early Morning Tensions (01:07 - 05:00)

Chief Inspector Roger West arrives at Scotland Yard, only to be met with anxiety from Sergeant Hubert Gill about their superior, Assistant Commissioner Sir Guy Chatworth. Sir Guy is eager to meet with West, signaling the gravity of ongoing investigations.

Key Dialogue:

Sir Guy Chatworth: “You think I don't know what they all say?” [02:04]

Investigating Christine Grant’s Disappearance (05:00 - 08:20)

West and Sir Guy discuss the high-profile case of Christine Grant, the missing wife of millionaire Sir Mortimer Grant. Despite interviewing significant figures like Sir Arnold Dana and Lord Riverslane, leads are scarce. The pressure intensifies as the Press, particularly The Morning Echo, scrutinizes every development.

Notable Quote:

Chief Inspector Roger West: “I can’t blame him with his wife in Corrosion’s hands. It’s not hard to put myself in his place if it was Janet.” [02:44]

Personal Struggles at Home (07:04 - 15:49)

The narrative shifts to West’s personal life, highlighting the strain his obsession with the case places on his marriage. His wife, Janet (referred to as Jeremy in their dialogues), expresses concern over his sleepless nights and relentless pursuit of Corrosion.

Key Dialogue:

Janet: “You’ve been sitting in that chair like a stone image.” [07:27]

Escalation and Corrosion’s Moves (10:22 - 16:19)

As West delves deeper, Corrosion's machinations become more apparent. An attempt on Michael Grant’s life indicates that Corrosion is escalating his efforts to thwart West. Meanwhile, Sergeant Gill informs Sir Guy that West might be walking into a trap, prompting urgent actions to intercept him.

Notable Quote:

Sir Guy Chatworth: “West's gone marching straight into it. Taken the bait, hook, line and sinker.” [16:05]

Confrontation in Skelborne (16:19 - 27:28)

West travels to Skelborne, where he encounters Arthur Morley, a man coerced by Corrosion, and Julietta with her dog Lucifer. The setting is deceptive, leading West into a meticulously crafted trap. During a staged dinner, Corrosion confronts West, culminating in West being poisoned and effectively captured.

Key Dialogue:

Corrosion: “You are a woman of great beauty, Julietta, my dear. But by far the most beautiful thing about you is what I have made.” [11:28]

Chief Inspector Roger West: “I have a notion that the whole of this affair so far... is just a blind kind of smokescreen.” [08:30]

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Character Dynamics

• Chief Inspector Roger West (Patrick Allen): A dedicated and perceptive detective whose relentless pursuit of Corrosion leads him into increasingly dangerous situations. His obsession strains his personal relationships, particularly with his wife, Janet.

• Janet West (Sarah Lawson): Roger's supportive yet concerned wife, who struggles with his obsession. Her pleas for him to take a break highlight the personal cost of his dedication.

• Sir Guy Chatworth: The Assistant Commissioner of Scotland Yard, embodying authority and concern for West's well-being. His interactions with West reveal the mounting pressure from higher-ups as the case intensifies.

• Sergeant Hubert Gill: Loyal and anxious, Gill tries to balance his duties while managing the expectations of both his superior and his partner.

• Corrosion: The enigmatic antagonist who manipulates events from the shadows, using tools like Julietta and Lucifer to entrap West. His intellectual prowess poses a significant challenge to West.

• Julietta and Lucifer: Corrosion's operatives, Julietta plays a femme fatale role, while Lucifer, an Alsatian, adds to the intimidation factor during confrontations.

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Themes and Insights

• Obsession vs. Personal Life: West's unwavering commitment to his case underscores the classic detective trope of sacrificing personal happiness for professional duty. This tension is poignantly portrayed through his interactions with Janet.

• Good vs. Evil: The clear delineation between West's moral high ground and Corrosion's manipulative tactics highlights the eternal struggle between justice and malice.

• Psychological Manipulation: Corrosion's strategic moves, including staged dinners and psychological warfare, showcase the intricate mental battles that define the detective genre.

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Climactic Capture and Cliffhanger (22:52 - 27:28)

The episode builds to a thrilling climax as Corrosion masterfully ensnares West during their dinner confrontation. As West begins to feel the effects of poisoning, the gravity of Corrosion's plans becomes evident. The episode concludes with West being taken aboard a motor cruiser, leaving listeners in suspense and eager for the next installment.

Notable Quote:

Corrosion: “To the end of a long history of inconvenience which you have caused for me.” [25:38]

Chief Inspector Roger West: “I have a notion that the whole of this affair... is just a blind kind of smokescreen.” [08:30]

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Conclusion

Battle for Inspector West: Bait for a Bogey exemplifies the golden era of radio drama with its engaging script, dynamic characters, and suspenseful plot twists. The seamless balance between professional intrigue and personal drama offers a rich listening experience, making it a standout episode in the Battle for Inspector West series. For both long-time fans and newcomers, this episode promises a captivating dive into the world of radio-era detective storytelling.

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End of Summary

Transcript

[Ben]

Ben hadn't had a decent night's sleep in a month. So during one of his restless nights, he booked a package trip abroad on Expedia. When he arrived at his beachside hotel, he discovered a miraculous bed slung between two trees and fell into the best sleep of his life. You were made to be rechargeable. We were made to package flights and hotels and hammocks for less. Expedia Made to travel.

[Jeremy]

THE Battle for Inspector West Part 4A.

[Narrator]

Crime file Based on John Creases novel Battle for Inspector West Dramatized for radio by Morris Travers Battle for Inspector West Starring Patrick Allen as Chief Inspector Roger west of Scotland Yard and Sarah Lawson as his wife Janet. Part 4 Bait for a BOGEY.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Good morning, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Oh, you're here, Inspector. That's a relief.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Is it?

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Why, the old man, sir. Chatty's really on the rampage.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Sergeant Gill, if you're referring to the Assistant Commissioner, I suggest you stick to Sir Guy Chatworth.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Yes, sir. He's raising the roofer. I've had him on the blower every half hour on the half hour wanting to know where you'd got to. Well, you didn't tell me, sir, so I couldn't tell him.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That seems logical enough, Hubert.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Anyway, he wants you in his office right away.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

In that case, I'd better trot along, hadn't I?

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Good luck, sir.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Thanks. See you later.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

You're a dash sight too fond of taking off on your own, Chief Inspector. I'll remind you, this is Scotland Yard, not a fancy private detective bureau.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I give you too much rope, that's the trouble. You think I don't know what they all say?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

West.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Oh, he can get away with murder. Chatty's blue eyed boy. That's how I'm referred to, I believe.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I wouldn't know, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Wouldn't you? Don't just stand there like a stuffed dummy. Sit down.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

You seen today's papers?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Not all of them, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I have. And so has the Commissioner. I've had him on the phone and on my back. Look at these. Christine Grant still missing. No trace of millionaire's wife. Double murders and the vanishing Bride. Tragedy strikes in Dorset. Honeymoon Hotel Newsmen are having a field day.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I like the poor. So the press are always with us.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Only a damn sight too vocal at the moment.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

What about this one?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

The Morning Echo. Read that.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Police raid on home of Sir Mortimer Grant. A search for corrosion. No comment from Scotland Yard. I could give him a comment or two, but they'd be unprintable. I'd have got Crozian the other night in Sir Mortimer's house. If young Grant hadn't ruined it for me.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

You're quite convinced Michael Grant did warn.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Korezzi and helped him get away? No question of its own, I suppose. I can't blame him with his wife in Corrosion's hands. Not hard to put myself in his place if it was Janet.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Yes, quite. I take it the Dorset police are still watching Ungrounded uplands?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

They are. The minute he makes any move, I'll know about it.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

What about those names you found in Sir Mortimer's desk?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I'm following that up, sir. I have appointments today with Sir Arnold Dana and with Lord Riverslane and the.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Third one, Laszlo Barat.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

And he's away, sir. Oslo. Till next week as government delegate to the Six Nations Economic Conference.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

These are pretty important men, Roger. You don't think you could be barking up the wrong tree, do you?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Possibly. But it's the only tree I've got. Those names are part of a list. And whatever Corrosion's really up to that list is a pointer, I'll swear to it.

[Corrosion]

Yes? Yes, this is Corrosion. Who's that? No, I do not want your name. Give me your number. Oh, not the number of the telephone you're calling from. The one on your pass. Yes, the red disk 32. Very well. I'll make your report. I see west has talked to them both Dana and Riversley. Yes. You were perfectly right to inform me. You've done well. The matter of Chief Inspector west is already in hand.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Goodbye.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

All right, let's have it, Roger. We'll take the big industrialist first, shall we?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, Sir Arnold Donner's very big and very industrious. He was flying off to the northeast on an inspection tour of some of his factories. He gave me exactly 10 minutes.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Did you get anything out of him?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Cigarettes, the offer of a Scotch and a nine and a half minute lecture on how this country ought to be run on sound commercial principles.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

In the remaining half minute?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

30 seconds was all he needed to say. He knew nothing about anyone called Corrosion. He had no truck with people on the wrong side of the law. And what the devil was I doing wasting his valuable time?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

What about Lord Riversley?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I fared further, but no better. He wasn't any more help than Donner. I'd like a watch put on both of them, sir. And on Laszlo Barai when he returns to London.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

You think it's warranted?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Just in case? I've already got a man keeping an eye on young Grant's father in Law.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Oh, have you? You think Arthur Morley's liable to be further involved in all this?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Could be. Corrosion's forced him into playing go between once. It would happen again.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I'll tell you something, Roger. I don't, as a rule, find myself feeling any sympathy for murderers, but in all his cases.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I know what you mean, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

It's all a nasty business, of course. Strangling his wife, mother of his child and all the rest of it. In a way, rather pathetic.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

The unreasoning jealousy thing, you mean?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Well, the man was an artist of sorts. Crime of passion and so forth, eh? And then, after a reprieve and 13 years behind bars, the chap comes out to find his daughter snatched by Corrosion, day after her wedding.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That is why I'm keeping him under observation. I've got to get some lead to Corrosion and where he's keeping Christine Grant.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Chadworth.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Hi.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Silent girl. Yes, he is. Just a moment. You, Roger, you're silent.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, thank you, sir. Yes, Hubert, what is it? This morning. But he wasn't hurt. I see. Right. Thanks for letting me know straight away.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

By what was all that?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

An attempt was made at Uplands this morning to kill Michael Grant. What? Someone took a pot shot at him. The bullet went wide.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Bit of luck for young Grant, that it did, eh?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes, sir. But this will bear thinking about. Deserves quite a bit of thought, in fact.

[Jeremy]

Roger, are you asleep?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

No.

[Jeremy]

Did you hear what I was saying?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

No one?

[Jeremy]

Well, I was. Oh, listen to that, Roger on the radio. Goodness, it takes you back, doesn't it? They were always playing it at those crazy parties in the good old days when I was still going to art classes and you were hoping like mad that one day you'd get to the Yard. There's a fine romantic response, I must say. Hey. Little did you dream then, Janet, my girl, that you wind up sitting with a needle and a thread and a husband who grunts? Who'd be a wife and a mother.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Who'D be a copper?

[Jeremy]

All right, we'll have this off for a start. Now, my dear Chief Inspector, I think it's high time you told me. What's the matter?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Nothing. You needn't worry your head over, Jeremy.

[Jeremy]

Oh, don't be silly, Roger. The boys and I hardly got a word out of you all through dinner. And ever since, you've been sitting in that chair like a stone image. What's wrong, darling?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I'll give you three guesses.

[Jeremy]

Corrosion.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Right first time.

[Jeremy]

You're not making any progress, is that it?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Progress? I've forgotten there ever Was such a word.

[Jeremy]

Would you like a small piece of advice?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I'm obviously going to get it whether I'd like it or not.

[Jeremy]

Yes, you are. Put all this business out of your mind for a few hours, have an early night and well see what tomorrow.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Brings so that I can rise up bright and shining. Wakey, wakey. And the bell goes for the next round. Corrosion versus West. Guess who'll finish up on the canvas.

[Jeremy]

Roger, this isn't like you, bit. I've never owned a case, get you down like this before.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

It's no average case, Jan. Corrosion's up to something. Something big. I can smell it. I've known it, felt it in my bones, ever since I heard he was back in England. I'll tell you something else, something I haven't even said to chat with.

[Jeremy]

What's that?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I have a notion that the whole of this affair so far, snatching young Grant's wife, the whole thing is just a blind kind of smokescreen.

[Jeremy]

A smokescreen for what?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes, that's the puzzle. For what? I'll get it. No.

[Jeremy]

No, you won't. You stay in that chair. I'll take it.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

If it's the Yard, I'll talk to them.

[Jeremy]

If it's the Yard, you've gone out to the pub. The pictures. Anywhere but you are out. Chelsea, 1492.

[Julietta]

Is that Mrs. West?

[Jeremy]

Yes.

[Julietta]

Sergeant Gill here. Mrs. West, could I have a word with the Chief Inspector, please?

[Jeremy]

Sergeant Gill, I'm so sorry, but I'm afraid he's gone out.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

He's just come back.

[Jeremy]

Roger.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Now, let me have that phone, Jan.

[Jeremy]

Oh, you are impossible. I'll go make some coffee.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Hello, Hubert. You still on duty?

[Julietta]

Not officially, sir, but the paperwork's been.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Piling up as usual.

[Julietta]

The thing is, some information's just come in and I thought you'd want to hear it immediately.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

All right. Far away.

[Julietta]

It's about Michael Grant. He's left Uplands.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

He's left?

[Julietta]

Yes, sir, but the Dorset inspector put a man on him. Grant's been tailed to the Excelsior Hotel in Skelborne. You know the place?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes, I know. At a resort on the Kent coast.

[Julietta]

And there's something else, sir.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes?

[Julietta]

A report from the man we've got watching. Arthur Morley. Morley's in Skelborne, too.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Is he now?

[Julietta]

Staying in a cheap lodging house? Must be planning a spot of painting. He's bought himself some brushes and canvas.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I see. Anything else, Hubert?

[Julietta]

No, sir. That's a lot.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

All right, then. Thanks for ringing.

[Julietta]

Any idea what this could add up to, sir?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Only that morley and grant will be acting under orders from corrosion. That's for certain. Night, hubert.

[Jeremy]

Here we are. You'll have some coffee, won't you?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes, fine.

[Jeremy]

And what did sergeant gill want?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, nothing much. A message he forgot to give me.

[Jeremy]

It's the one who didn't ring when you were fast asleep. That's the time the yard usually seems to call. Here. It's sugared. Thanks, Roger. I said it's sugared.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Yes. Ah, jolly good. Why doesn't coffee ever taste as good as it smells?

[Lucifer]

Yes, yes, yes. You like it when Julietta plays with you, My big, fierce Lucifer. My strong, sweet, savage devil dog. Those rough teeth only bite when julietta orders it, when she gives the wor. But like this, when we play, he's no more than a puppy. Only a puppy.

[Corrosion]

Julietta.

[Lucifer]

Carusian. How long have you been standing there?

[Corrosion]

A few moments. I have been watching. Of all the alsatians, this one is your favorite, isn't he?

[Lucifer]

Yes. No. Enough, Lucifer. Playtime is over. Quiet now.

[Corrosion]

He obeys you implicitly.

[Lucifer]

As I obey you, Corusian.

[Corrosion]

You're a woman of great beauty, Julietta, my dear. But by far the most beautiful thing about you is what I have made. What corrosion has created. Devotion, obedience. With no obstruction from puerile emotion. I drink to you, julietta.

[Lucifer]

You are pleased, corrosion. I can see it.

[Corrosion]

I confess I have some cause for satisfaction at the moment. My arrangements for chief inspector west are almost complete. Michael grant is in skelborne waiting for his next instructions. And Arthur morley is also at the resort. And captain Marco has been given his orders.

[Lucifer]

You are using the motor cruiser.

[Corrosion]

It will heave to offshore by dawn. And so the strands of my net are spread.

[Lucifer]

Do you think roger west will step into it?

[Corrosion]

You, my dear julietta, with the assistance of your favorite there, will make perfectly certain that he does.

[Lucifer]

You hear that, Lucifer?

[Corrosion]

Oh.

[Julietta]

Chief inspector west's office. Detective sergeant gill speaking.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

West here. Morning, Hubert. You're in bright and early.

[Julietta]

Oh, I'm one of these keen characters. Didn't you know, sir?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, are you now? Listen, Hubert. I've decided to go down to skelborne, see if I can find out what the score is.

[Julietta]

I see, sir.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

But I want it kept strictly between ourselves. Got it?

[Julietta]

Yes, sir. But what of chatty? I mean, the assistant commissioner wants to.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Know where you are. Just play dumb.

[Julietta]

You're going on your own, sir?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That's right.

[Julietta]

Isn't that a bit dodgy, sir?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Just do as I say. Keep quiet about it. Bye now, Sergeant. The devil are Those damn things got to me. Oh, Jan. Janet. Here.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

A man.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

William, where are you?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

In the bedroom.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Hi. Coming.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Should be here somewhere.

[Jeremy]

Yes, darling. What?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You. What's the joke?

[Jeremy]

You are, Roger. Have you seen yourself? That frightful shirt and that dreadful old sports coat. No trousers.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That's what I'm hunting for. My brown slacks. The old pair. Have you seen them anywhere?

[Jeremy]

Oh, they should be in your wardrobe somewhere.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I've just looked.

[Jeremy]

Well, let's see. And what are these?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Oh, damned if I could find them. Thanks, Jen.

[Lucifer]

Now then, Roger, what is all this?

[Jeremy]

You haven't changed.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

No, Jan, that's it.

[Jeremy]

Don't tell me you're actually going to take a day off and do a bit of work in the garden.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Not this time. I'm off on a small job.

[Jeremy]

Wasn't that get up. What if that's supposed to be a disguise, I have to tell you, you'll never win any Sherlock Holmes award. Roger west ticks out a mile.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You think so, do you?

[Jeremy]

I know so, darling. You may be an A1 detective. An absolutely brilliant bogey.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Bogey? Where on earth do you pick up all these underworld expressions?

[Jeremy]

Where do you imagine?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

John, I don't know how long this job will take. I could be away for some little time. So if you don't hear from me for a bit, don't get too worried.

[Jeremy]

No more than usual, darling. After all, it's not the first time and I don't suppose it'll be the last, will it?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Good girl. Shall I tell you something?

[Jeremy]

What?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You look smashing this morning.

[Jeremy]

Smashing? You must have the sun in your eyes. I haven't done my face yet. Hardly had time to run a comb.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Through my head and the overall effect knocks me out. Just come here, Mrs. West. Here, I said.

[Jeremy]

But the boys are waiting for them.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Come here. That's it.

[Jeremy]

That was a bit overwhelming for this time of the day.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

In case I haven't mentioned it lately, I love you, Jan. And in return for that undying declaration, I'll expect a whacking great breakfast. So down you go to the kitchen and shopish.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Well, let's hear the rest of it, Sergeant Gill. That's all there is, sir. I see.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

I just hope I've done the right thing, sir. I. And I feel a bit of a traitor. The more I think about it, the more it bothers me. The Chief Inspector going off like that.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I should damn well think it would.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

He was pretty insistent. You shouldn't know about it, sir. He'll have my scalp, I suppose, when he learns I've Told you I'd have.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Had your stripes if you hadn't, Sergeant.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Yes, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I have a good mind to have him anyway. Why the devil didn't you come to me at once? He'd be on his way to Skelburn by now.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

Then you do think I might be right, sir? That it could be a trap of Corrosion's?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Anything's possible where that individual is concerned.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

And if it is a trap, Roger.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

West's gone marching straight into it. Taken the bait, hook, line and sinker. All the obstinate pig headed. Gil, get after him. West has hounded Corrosion more than any man alive. If he falls into his hands. Now go on, man, get moving and I'll contact the Sculburn police. Let's just hope we can be in time.

[Narrator]

Good morning.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Oh, good morning.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Fine day.

[Arthur Morley]

It's a beautiful day.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I see you don't object to an audience while you paint.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Not in the least.

[Arthur Morley]

In fact, I had quite a crowd a little while ago. Most of them children. Now that lady and gentleman and yourself of course are all that's left.

[Jeremy]

Kids get bored that easy nowadays, don't they, Fred?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Aye, it's natural.

[Arthur Morley]

Children have more and better things to do at the seaside than watch someone dabbling about with a brush and canvas.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You dabble to some purpose, if that picture is anything to go by.

[Arthur Morley]

Very kind of you. My hand has sadly lost its cunning, I'm afraid. I haven't held a brush for over 13 years.

[Jeremy]

Well, you never know. I call it a lovely picture, don't you, Fred?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Aye, not wrong with that.

[Jeremy]

Just like a photo it is. Hey, Fred. There's one of them Ansysians coming this way. Let's go loaf. I hate them brutes. Nasty. Horrible.

[Arthur Morley]

Go with them, quickly.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I beg your pardon?

[Jeremy]

Please.

[Arthur Morley]

I know who you are, Inspector West. And you know perfectly well I'm Arthur Morley. There's no time. Quickly, before that young woman and the dog.

[Julietta]

It's too late.

[Lucifer]

Right now. Lucifer. Ah, so this is the celebrated Chief Inspector Dr. Roger West.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You must be confusing me with someone else, young lady. My name's Jack Robinson.

[Lucifer]

Hardly an imaginative choice. And the disguise is not very effective.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I don't know who you are, Miss.

[Lucifer]

I'm called Julietta. The Alsatian's name is Lucifer. He has been very carefully trained. Like your police dogs. If I utter one certain word, he will leap at your feet. Throat. Roger West.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That's a charming thought.

[Lucifer]

I am sure in the circumstances you would prefer simply to accompany me.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Where?

[Lucifer]

To glance out to sea. You will observe a motor Cruiser.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You can't very well miss it.

[Lucifer]

A handsome vessel, do you not agree?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Very opulent. Whose is it? Was that a silly question?

[Lucifer]

It belongs to Corrosion. Yes.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

As you do, I take it?

[Lucifer]

You could say that. Ah. Be patient. Be patient, Lucifer. We will go in a moment. There is a launch waiting to take us out to the cruiser. Roger west. At the end of that jetty.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Sounds as if I'd been expected.

[Lucifer]

You have. Why do you imagine Michael Grant was told to come to Skelborne? And Mr. Morley here also? Corrosion knew it would fetch you.

[Arthur Morley]

Inspector, I had no choice. You can understand that, can't you?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

You have children of your own, yes? Two boys.

[Arthur Morley]

I have only Christine, and Corrosion's got. I have to do what I'm told. You do see, don't you?

[Lucifer]

It is time to go now. Come along, Roger West. And walk close beside me, please. Not far now. We are almost at the jetty. Yes, yes, yes. Lucifer. Soon, my beauty. He loves to ride in the launch. But you have not spoken a word ever since we left, Mr. Morley. Are you always so silent, Roger West?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Well, I'm thinking, yes. Share your thoughts with your friend, Lucifer.

[Lucifer]

With me.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I doubt if your ears would be any more receptive.

[Lucifer]

You are angry with yourself, is that it? For falling into Corrosion's trap.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

My mind was on someone else entirely, as it happens.

[Lucifer]

Could it be by any chance a woman?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

By every chance. My wife, if you must know.

[Lucifer]

How disappointing of you. In my presence, men do not usually think about other women. Their wives. Nistobal, we are here. Get into the launch, please. Prager, start the motor. Go ahead, Roger West.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Ladies first.

[Lucifer]

Not in this instance.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

There he is.

[Lucifer]

Come on, you chaps.

[Jeremy]

Police.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Sergeant Gill. What the devil?

[Lucifer]

Keep them away. Give Lucifer the world and Prager's arms. He will shoot.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Stay where you are. This fella's got a gun. Someone will get hurt. Do as I tell you and stay back. That's an order. Sergeant Gill, into the launch now.

[Corrosion]

Hurry.

[Lucifer]

Come, Lucifer. Now. Prage.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Chadworth.

[Julietta]

Sergeant Gill here, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Well, Sergeant?

[Julietta]

It was a trap, all right, sir.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

But we were too late.

[Julietta]

Hello? Are you still there, sir?

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Yes, sir, I'm here.

[Julietta]

We came pretty close, sir.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Not close enough.

[Julietta]

No, sir.

[Sergeant Hubert Gill]

The inspector was taken aboard a motor.

[Julietta]

Cruiser and she put to sea at once.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

I don't know how I'm going to break the news to his wife. All right, Gil. Get back here as soon as you can. Goodbye.

[Lucifer]

Yes, sir. Guy.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Ms. Fordyce. Tell Summers I want him with a car out in front in precisely five minutes. I warned him. You Know, janet, this habit of going off on his own, taking the bit between his teeth. Ticked him off about it only yesterday.

[Corrosion]

Damn it.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

The very next minute, off he goes and falls for corrosion's bait.

[Jeremy]

No, sir guy, he didn't fall for it. He knew it was bait.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

Knew?

[Jeremy]

Yes, I realize it now. The way he talked before he went off this morning when he said he didn't know how long this job would take. Yes, yes, he knew. Good lord, he did it deliberately. He stepped into corrosion's trap with his eyes wide open.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Well, Ms. Julietta, now what?

[Lucifer]

Have you been growing bored, roger west?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Not a bit of it. Sitting inside a locked cabin is quite my favorite way of passing the time. You might do something about the view from this porthole.

[Lucifer]

You do not care for looking at the sea?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

A little of that goes a long way as far as I'm concerned. How far are we going, incidentally? Or shouldn't I ask?

[Lucifer]

I think not. But I can relieve the monotony for you. I bring you an invitation to dinner.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Invitation? Now isn't that delightful? It almost sounds as though I were in a position to refuse.

[Lucifer]

You have always the choice of a hunger strike. But I would advise against it. The food on board is prepared by the former chef of a four star paris restaurant. Shall we go? The dining saloon is this way. This door give me your opinion of the decor. Do you like the color scheme? I selected it.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Pale green and gold. Very luxurious.

[Lucifer]

And the table looks inviting. Do you not agree? There is nothing to show up. Silver so well as fine linen, I believe. And those bohemian goblets, too. I am especially fond of them.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I noticed the table set for three.

[Lucifer]

Oh, did I neglect to mention that we would not be dining alone?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Who's making up the party?

[Corrosion]

I am, Mr. West.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Well, corrosion, a pour a drink for.

[Corrosion]

All of us, Julietta, my dear.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Not for me.

[Corrosion]

Don't be churlish, chief inspector. Or were you offended that I wasn't present to welcome you aboard? But there are times in one's life, and this for me was such an occasion, when the anticipation of a pleasure is almost keener than the thing itself. That was my only reason for deferring the moment of our meeting. I am sure you will not begrudge it to me.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I've been wanting to come face to face with you myself for quite a time.

[Corrosion]

But not precisely in these circumstances, I imagine. However, we must not spoil what promises to be an excellent dinner with such disagreeable thoughts. Let us take our drinks to the table. Yours is the chair on my right. Chief inspector, as befits the guest of honor. Let me fill your glass, Mr. West.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I've had enough.

[Corrosion]

But I insist. I have a toast to propose. To the end of a long history of inconvenience which you have caused for me. The wheel, as they say, has turned to my advantage.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

It might still have a twist left in it. To mine.

[Corrosion]

You would be deluding yourself to rely on it.

[Lucifer]

Have you enjoyed the meal? The food lived up to my recommendation, I hope?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

No complaints.

[Lucifer]

But I have one. You make a poor dining companion, my friend. We have hardly heard a word from you.

[Corrosion]

Perhaps Mr. Michael Grant should have been invited to join us, julietta. Though I doubt if his conversation would have proved any more enlivening.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Grant? You mean he's here on board?

[Corrosion]

He is.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

And his wife? Is this where you've been keeping the girl?

[Corrosion]

No, she is safe elsewhere. But as I have assured her husband, quite unharmed.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

Unharmed? After being thrown into a nightmare, Terrorized out of her life? Is that what you call unharmed? Young grant? Poor devil. Going through half a dozen different grades of hell.

[Lucifer]

You feel sorry for him?

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

What's so remarkable about that?

[Lucifer]

But he helped corrosion to escape from you. Or did you not know that?

[Corrosion]

Of course he knows it, julietta. But as you see, the inspector is a man in whom the human sympathies run rampant.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

That's the last thing you could be accused of, isn't it, corrosion?

[Corrosion]

Is something wrong, chief inspector? You don't look at all well.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

My head feels funny spinning. The food. Something in the food?

[Corrosion]

Quite so.

[Sir Guy Chatworth]

You.

[Jeremy]

You.

[Chief Inspector Roger West]

I. Just.

[Corrosion]

A small added ingredient, chief inspect.

[Narrator]

You've been listening to patrick allen and sarah lawson in the fourth part of battle for inspector west by john creasy. Listen to trail from a tip off the next episode of john fawcett wilson's production of battle for inspector.