The Slide 66-02-13 (1) Moment of Silence

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: The Slide 66-02-13 (1) Moment of Silence
Release Date: May 4, 2025

---

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "The Slide 66-02-13 (1) Moment of Silence," listeners are transported to the seemingly tranquil town of Redlow Newtown. This story unfolds during an unprecedented geological event—a powerful tremor striking England, a country unaccustomed to such seismic activities. The episode masterfully blends suspense, drama, and scientific intrigue, capturing the essence of radio storytelling from the Golden Age.

Setting the Scene

Redlow Newtown, a modern and rapidly developing town, becomes the epicenter of unexpected seismic disturbances. The narrative begins with Janet Marshall and Ken Richards hiking up a hill, offering a serene view of the town. However, their casual conversation quickly shifts as signs of impending disaster emerge.

Notable Quote:

Janet Marshall [01:05]: "I feel as though I'd been let out of a cave."

The Tremor Strikes

The tranquility is shattered when a significant tremor hits Redlow Newtown. The town hall event, initially a platform for celebrating progress under Hugh Deverel's leadership, turns chaotic as buildings shake and cracks appear.

Key Events:

• Town Hall Meeting: Hugh Deverel delivers a passionate speech lauding the town's transformation, only to have it interrupted by the tremor.
• Immediate Aftermath: Panic ensues as attendees flee the shaking hall. Ken Richards, identified as a doctor, attempts to manage the chaos, showcasing his leadership under pressure.

Notable Quote:

Hugh Deverel [05:05]: "We have stepped well into the future. Before the future has begun."

Introducing Professor Gomez

In the wake of the tremor, the urgency to understand the phenomenon leads to the introduction of Professor Joseph Gomez, a renowned seismologist from Chile. His expertise is crucial as the town faces the possibility of future earthquakes.

Key Events:

• Arrival of Professor Gomez: Despite initial resistance from Victor Pemberton, Gomez is persuaded to assist Redlow Newtown.
• Scientific Explanations: Gomez discusses the unusual seismic activity, including clean cracks on the seabed of the English Channel and the absence of marine life around these fissures.

Notable Quote:

Professor Gomez [24:45]: "There was no sign of any marine life. Everything had gone within a radius of two or three miles of each fissure."

Community Response and Tension

As the town grapples with the tremor's impact, internal tensions surface. Victor Pemberton emerges as a contentious figure, opposing governmental intervention and advocating for immediate scientific inquiry.

Key Events:

• Conflict with Authorities: Victor's refusal to cooperate with external agencies heightens the town's internal conflict.
• Public Fear: Hugh Deverel emphasizes the need for preparedness, contrasting with Victor's dismissive attitude.

Notable Quote:

Hugh Deverel [15:02]: "If the town's going to get another shaking like this, this man may at least be able to prepare us for it."

Rescue and Heroism

The episode reaches a peak of tension during a rescue attempt involving Tug Wilson, a local resident, and his dog, Mickey. Amidst the chaos of mudslides and structural damage, Tug's bravery is showcased, though not without peril.

Key Events:

• Attempted Rescue: Tug attempts to save a man named Ted, leading to a dramatic mudslide that underscores the episode's suspenseful tone.
• Cliffhanger Ending: As the slide approaches, the episode concludes abruptly, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.

Notable Quote:

Hugh Deverel [30:22]: "It's coming over the top. All the way along. It's coming over the top."

Character Dynamics and Development

The interactions between characters reveal underlying tensions and alliances:

• Janet Marshall and Ken Richards: Their relationship is marked by mutual support, especially during crises.
• Victor Pemberton: Portrayed as a skeptic and antagonist, his actions add complexity to the narrative.
• Hugh Deverel: As the town leader, his dedication to Redlow Newtown's welfare is evident, though it brings him into conflict with figures like Victor.

Scientific and Thematic Elements

The episode intricately weaves scientific concepts with thematic elements of progress, nature's unpredictability, and human resilience:

• Seismology: Detailed discussions about earthquake mechanics, soil composition, and seismic readings add depth and authenticity.
• Progress vs. Tradition: The contrast between Redlow Newtown's rapid development and the characters' reverence for the past underscores a central theme.
• Human Emotion: Fear, bravery, and conflict drive the characters' actions, making the scientific events relatable and emotionally charged.

Conclusion and Anticipation

The Slide 66-02-13 (1) Moment of Silence captivates listeners with its blend of suspense, character-driven drama, and scientific intrigue. The episode ends on a high-tension note, setting the stage for future developments and leaving the audience eagerly anticipating the next chapter.

Notable Quote:

Victor Pemberton [28:44]: "He has to die sooner or later. We all do."

---

Cast Highlights:

• Victor Pemberton: Voice portrayed by [Harolds Old Time Radio Actor]
• Hugh Deverel: Morris Denham
• Joseph Gomez: Roger Delgado
• Prof. Landers: Roll Lever
• Dr. Ken Richards: David Spencer
• Anna Deverell: Marian Matthy
• Professor Lippert: Alan McLellan
• Inspector Baxter: Jeffrey Matthews
• Janet Marshall: Elizabeth Proud
• Tug Wilson: Stephen Jack
• Police Sergeant Wilfred Babbage, Mrs. Wilson: Miriam Margulies
  Other characters were voiced by members of the BBC Drama Repertory Company.

Production Notes:

• Special Sound Effects: BBC Radiophonic Workshop
• Recorded by: John Tyman

Upcoming Episode:

• Episode Two: To be broadcast next Sunday at 7:00 PM.

---

This episode exemplifies the captivating storytelling that Harold's Old Time Radio is renowned for, blending suspenseful drama with rich, character-driven narratives set against a backdrop of scientific mystery. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, The Slide 66-02-13 (1) Moment of Silence promises an engaging and immersive listening experience.

Transcript

[Toyota Advertiser]

Hey, y'all. Life's journey is filled with change, growth and exciting new chapters. Whether you're welcoming a new family member, stepping into a new city, or chasing after your biggest dreams, you need a ride that's built with more space for the grand challenges ahead. The Toyota Grand Highlander is made for those who embrace every twist and turn with advanced safety features, innovative tech and a bold, sophisticated design. It's the SUV that adapts with you with room to spare. This spacious beauty seats up to 8, gives you up to 97.5 cubic feet of cargo space and and has a diverse engine lineup. Available in gas or hybrid options, including the powerful 362 horsepower Hybrid Max plus available all wheel drive. Means you'll have confidence no matter where life takes you. Ready to take on your dreams. The Grand Highlander is more than a vehicle. It's your partner in embracing all life throws at you. From daily routines to unexpected adventures. It's up for every grand challenge. Learn [e-mail] GrandHighlander Toyota let's go. Places.

[Victor Pemberton]

The Slide A science fiction serial in seven parts by Victor Pemberton with Morris Denham and Roger Delgado. The slide Episode 1 Moments of Silence.

[Janet Marshall]

Come on, Ken. Come on. Oh, you can see the whole town from up here.

[Ken Richards]

Oh, really, Janet. We've climbed this hill hundreds of times. The way you carry on, you'd think we were the first ever to reach the summit.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, I haven't breathed air like this for weeks. I feel as though I'd been let out of a cave.

[Ken Richards]

We don't get heat waves in March every year, you know. You should be grateful for small mercies.

[Janet Marshall]

Well, you want to be locked up in that classroom sometime. I thought I was going to suffocate the other day. The heat was unbearable.

[Ken Richards]

Oh, there's nothing I'd like better than being locked up in a classroom with my schoolteacher. Especially this school teacher.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, look, Ken, there is the school. Doesn't it look an odd shape from up here?

[Ken Richards]

Yes, very odd.

[Janet Marshall]

Rather beautiful though, all that glass and concrete. Very futuristic. But then I suppose all the buildings are. You really hate Redlow, don't you, Kent?

[Ken Richards]

No, I just don't like new towns. They're too. Too impersonal.

[Janet Marshall]

Well, that's because they are new. You have to give them time.

[Ken Richards]

Do you mean the buildings or the people?

[Janet Marshall]

You are just a miserable old fashioned Londoner who resents progress. I happen to think we owe Hugh.

[Hugh Deverel]

Deverel an awful lot.

[Janet Marshall]

All of us, really. Any man who starts life by sweeping floors in a factory and ends up by building a town with his own money. Deserves every bit of admiration he can get.

[Ken Richards]

Well, I distrust the self made man.

[Janet Marshall]

Well, there are plenty of those who don't. That's why they put him into Parliament.

[Ken Richards]

Just let me tell you this, my darling. If our marriage is going to work, we are going to have to make one or two radical changes in your political education.

[Janet Marshall]

10. Listen.

[Ken Richards]

Can't hear a thing.

[Janet Marshall]

Precisely. Haven't you noticed how quiet it is? You can almost hear the silence.

[Ken Richards]

Imagination.

[Janet Marshall]

Look at the grass. It's absolutely still. When we came up, there was a cool breeze. And I can't even hear the birds anymore. Not one single bird.

[Ken Richards]

At least you can see the English Channel. It's as clear as a bell.

[Janet Marshall]

Okay, let's go. I hate this place.

[Victor Pemberton]

Hate it.

[Ken Richards]

But it's one of your favorites.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, it's the weather. I don't like it. Being like this. It scares me. I've had a headache all the week.

[Ken Richards]

Oh, Janet, why didn't you tell me, darling? Getting yourself all worked up like this.

[Janet Marshall]

I'll be all right if I can just get away from this place. The sun, it's so bright, it hurts my eyes.

[Ken Richards]

Yes, you really are under the weather, aren't you? Well, I tell you this. If you're not out of it by tonight, you're not going to any meeting at the town Hall. Especially with the reception Hugh Deverel's going to get.

[Victor Pemberton]

Ladies and gentlemen. Ladies and gentlemen, please. You tell me I took the farmer's land away from him. Yes, that's true, but. But what did I give the farmer in return? Yes, I gave him a home. A place he could be proud to live in with his wife and children for the rest of his days. When I came to Ridlow 10 years ago, it was a swamp in the middle of Kent. A haven of flies and field mites. But today, my friends, I have given you a standard of living unparalleled in the history of this nation. And Redlow Newtown has become a giant in our new society. We.

[Hugh Deverel]

We.

[Victor Pemberton]

We have stepped well into the future. Before the future has begun. Well, do you condemn me for this?

[Ken Richards]

Darling, are you all right?

[Victor Pemberton]

You look. Gossip.

[Janet Marshall]

I'm all right. It's just so hot in here.

[Ken Richards]

Then for heaven's sake, let's go.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, no.

[Janet Marshall]

I'm all right.

[Victor Pemberton]

Do you mind if I say something, Mr. Devereaux?

[Ken Richards]

No, go right ahead.

[Victor Pemberton]

Please, Mr. Wilson. Well, most of us in this hall tonight are farmers. That's right. We didn't ask you for one of Your face, age, towns. No. Some of us prefer the country the way it was.

[Janet Marshall]

I wish they'd open the doors or something. I can hardly breathe. It's sky.

[Ken Richards]

Your hands.

[Victor Pemberton]

They're like ice.

[Ken Richards]

Come on, let's get out of here.

[Hugh Deverel]

Mr. Wilson. Mr. Wilson. Perhaps I can ask you a question, if you'll allow me to. You don't have any children of your own, do you? Neither do I and my husband. That's one of the reasons why we think more about children than most people who do have them. Someone has to plan the children's future, Mr. Wilson, even if they're not our own.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yeah. And one man could do all that, can he?

[Hugh Deverel]

He can try, Mr. Wilson. He can try. The creation of Redno, ladies and gentlemen, is no lustful power. It is a dream of one man that came true. A dream of progress, not of stagnation.

[Victor Pemberton]

What is it? What's going on at the back there?

[Ken Richards]

Janet, darling. Come on now. Lift your head.

[Victor Pemberton]

What is it, Doctor? Is she finding.

[Janet Marshall]

They should have opened all these doors. It's like a greenhouse in here.

[Victor Pemberton]

No.

[Ken Richards]

Take it easy, darling.

[Victor Pemberton]

Just take it easy, please. Out of the way there.

[Ken Richards]

What?

[Victor Pemberton]

What is it? What's happened?

[Ken Richards]

I'm sorry about this. She's not feeling well. I am a doctor. I'll take her home.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, you can use my car.

[Ken Richards]

I have my own. Thank you, Mr. Devereaux. If I can just get her out of the heat. Would you mind moving back, please, ladies and gentlemen?

[Victor Pemberton]

We must have a little more air. Listen. Quiet, everybody. Stand still for a minute.

[Janet Marshall]

What is it, Doug?

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, it's something. Can't you hear it?

[Janet Marshall]

I can't hear nothing.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, no.

[Hugh Deverel]

Kane.

[Janet Marshall]

It's too late.

[Hugh Deverel]

Too late.

[Victor Pemberton]

Here.

[Hugh Deverel]

What is it?

[Victor Pemberton]

The chandelier. Look out for the chandelier. Get out, everybody. Get out. As big as you can.

[Hugh Deverel]

Get back from the walls. I better come down.

[Ken Richards]

Tug. Tug Wilson, Come over here. Help me with Janice.

[Victor Pemberton]

I can't, Doctor. I can't. The whole lot's got to cave in. Watch out. Excuse me, Inspector. It never stops. County Constabulary. Oh, yes, Doctor. Do what, sir? Are you sure? What is it? Just a moment, please, Doctor. It's Doc Richards, sir. Yeah? He says they found a crack in the road in Holly Mill Lane back at Tug Wilson's farmhouse. Give us that, Doc. Yeah, Baxter. What's all this, then? Are you sure? Oh, come off it, Doc. Haven't you heard? We don't have earthquakes in this country. What? Right. Ten minutes, then. Earthquakes? In England? It's impossible. Is it? Then why is there A crack in Holly Mill Lane, 100 yards long.

[Ken Richards]

Come on, Mrs. Wilson. All over now.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, what a terrible thing.

[Hugh Deverel]

I. I thought the whole house was.

[Janet Marshall]

Going to come down on top of me.

[Victor Pemberton]

If somebody had told me yesterday I'd lived to see earthquake in England, I wouldn't have believed them. Well, I'd say it's much more likely.

[Ken Richards]

To be earthquake tremors than a natural quake, Tug. Except for that robe being torn open like that.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, I don't know what it was, but it scared the living daylights out of me.

[Ken Richards]

You're not the only one.

[Victor Pemberton]

Doctors were supposed to have stomach tomorrow.

[Ken Richards]

Oh, don't you believe it. Earthquakes are the one thing in my life I can well do without. I've always had a dread of being near one.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yeah, what beat me was that girl of yours.

[Ken Richards]

Janet?

[Victor Pemberton]

Yeah. Screaming out in the middle of the hall like that. Can't make it out. She wasn't hit by anything.

[Ken Richards]

She has concussion.

[Victor Pemberton]

But how? She went down long before the place started shaking.

[Ken Richards]

Yes, I know. Anyway, it's up to the hospital now. There's nothing I can do till I get their report.

[Victor Pemberton]

Watch out, Doctor. They're free. Doc. Doc, are you all right? Oh, yeah, hi.

[Ken Richards]

Yes, I'm okay.

[Victor Pemberton]

That's it.

[Ken Richards]

I'm not so sure if many of these trees start coming down.

[Victor Pemberton]

Get these people out of the way. Come on now, get back there. You all right, Doc?

[Ken Richards]

Yeah, just about.

[Victor Pemberton]

Take a look at that crack, will you?

[Ken Richards]

I shouldn't go too near the edge of that gap.

[Victor Pemberton]

It's rather a long way down Holly Mill Lane. What happened to all these young elms along there? Well, you tell us. They've been ripped out the earth like a lot of weeds. Ah. Well, let's have a look then. How deep is this thing? Does anybody know?

[Ken Richards]

Impossible to tell, but it's a good three feet across.

[Victor Pemberton]

Uh huh. Soil's pretty loose. That's the trouble.

[Ken Richards]

It's as dry as the bone all the way along. For quite a way down, too.

[Victor Pemberton]

Is that bad? Soil's always damp, even an inch or so down. They've had tremors all the way along the south coast from Plymouth, right the way up as far as Margaret. Without any warning either.

[Ken Richards]

I'm not so sure about that.

[Victor Pemberton]

What do you mean?

[Ken Richards]

Something Janet noticed up on that hill this morning. Yeah, the air became so thick and dull with that silence, something was bound to happen.

[Victor Pemberton]

Silence?

[Ken Richards]

If you lived out east, you'd know the meaning of that. There's always a. A moment of silence before an earthquake. Seems to be about the Only warning nature's prepared to give. In some places they hang little wind chimes outside the house. If they begin to flutter and there's no breeze, that's the time to run.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yes, but in England we don't.

[Ken Richards]

It'll teach us not to be so smug.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yeah. Oh, well, it's up to the scientists now. Mr. Devil's got a couple of them on the way down from London. Let them sort it out, I say. Come on, John.

[Ken Richards]

No, no, wait a minute, Inspector. Tell me, is there a stream near here?

[Victor Pemberton]

Stream? Well, no, not to my knowledge. Nearest is the Hollymill river, but that's on the other side of town. Why?

[Ken Richards]

Just I thought I heard water, that's all. Perhaps not.

[Victor Pemberton]

More likely a broken water, mate.

[Ken Richards]

No, no. In fact, I'm not even sure it was water.

[Victor Pemberton]

I'll get it checked.

[Ken Richards]

Yes. Do we want to be prepared next time?

[Victor Pemberton]

Next time? Well, here it is, gentlemen. Our town hall. Not a very pretty sight. But I suppose we can think ourselves lucky we weren't killed. Yes, I should say very lucky, sir.

[Hugh Deverel]

In fact, I don't think there's any doubt that the force of these tremors was. Degree six. Degree six, Professor Leonard, what does that mean?

[Victor Pemberton]

It means, Mrs. Deverel, that even by international standards, the tremors were extremely powerful. They could be the start of a series of shocks.

[Hugh Deverel]

Mind you, this is not a proven fact. Professor Lippett merely suggests we must be prepared for the possibility. But I thought we weren't in an earthquake zone. Under normal circumstances, we're not. The most the British Isles ever feel are a few shock waves. But there's no doubt on this occasion, the seismographs show quite clearly °6.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh. Don't seismographs ever go wrong?

[Hugh Deverel]

Well, no, Mr. Devereaux, never. They may haggle a little, but they do not go wrong.

[Victor Pemberton]

The type of the damage in this hall alone is the sort of thing you'd normally expect to find in a severe quake area.

[Hugh Deverel]

Plus the fact that an actual crevasse has occurred in the earth's crust.

[Victor Pemberton]

It's a unique situation. Situation?

[Hugh Deverel]

Unique? I find it terrifying.

[Victor Pemberton]

Ah, there you are, Inspector. What's the news? He's calming down a bit now, sir. People seem to be more shocked than anything else. Damage pretty extensive.

[Hugh Deverel]

When the earth begins to move, everything moves with it.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, Inspector, this is Professor Landers and Professor Lippert. First thing in the morning, they'll want to inspect the crack in Hollymill Lane. I leave it to you to see that they're up at every facility Very good, sir. And, Inspector. Sir? I also leave it to you to see that the town is back in working order as quickly as possible. Me, sir? Isn't that up to the chief? Look, get as many working parties together as you can. I don't care how. If necessary, call on the commanding officer at RAF Redlow. Don't you need authority from Whitehall, sir? Let me worry about authority, Inspector, not you. Good night. Good night, Sir Hugh.

[Hugh Deverel]

That was most unnecessary. You know very well it's not Baxter's.

[Victor Pemberton]

Job has only me to thank for the job he holds today. If he doesn't like the way I do things, he knows very well he can go back to the beat where.

[Hugh Deverel]

I found, but you.

[Victor Pemberton]

Right, gentlemen. Now what next?

[Hugh Deverel]

We suggest you advise Whitehall immediately.

[Victor Pemberton]

Whitehall? Whitehall. What on earth for? Redlow is my responsibility.

[Hugh Deverel]

Mr. Devereaux, I think you and your colleagues should know that these tremors down here were not in entirely unexpected.

[Victor Pemberton]

What, Professor?

[Hugh Deverel]

You mean you knew this was going to happen and you didn't tell us? We knew sooner or later there was going to be a seismological disturbance somewhere in southern England. The thing we did not know was where and when.

[Victor Pemberton]

But one man did. Or at least he had a rough idea. What man?

[Hugh Deverel]

A young seismologist from Chile, in South America. He's done quite a lot of research in his own country. He worked with Lippet here for a time in geology at London University. Brilliant mind. What made him forecast these tremors?

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, I don't know if you remember, some years ago, people in Dover and Folkestone getting all worked up about a series of explosions they were hearing out at sea in the English Channel, usually in the middle of the night.

[Hugh Deverel]

Yes, I do remember, vaguely. Didn't they think they were unexploded mines or something?

[Victor Pemberton]

That's right. But nobody could find anything, not even the Royal Navy. That's why they called on us blokes. We sent down a team and so did the French, but still nothing. At the time, we took very little notice.

[Hugh Deverel]

After all, the turbulence is mentioned in manuscripts dating back as far as the 12th century. I hadn't. We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Stiles MacKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's Style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com fierce this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep Those interiors, superior, Wayfair. Every style, every home. Realize that?

[Victor Pemberton]

Yes. Well, anyhow, this Chilean bloke decided to go and have a look for himself. He made his first dive to the seabed about three miles out from Dover. It took him quite a few days, but what he eventually found out there shattered me, I can tell you. And quite a few others, too. Indeed. So much so that nobody believed him. They didn't want to. Not the Royal Institute, nor even Professor Landers here. Well, then, if this man can help us, let's make it worth his while to come here right away. Only science will get Gomez here, Mr. Devereaux, not money. Who did you say? Gomez.

[Hugh Deverel]

Professor Gomez?

[Victor Pemberton]

Yes. Then it's out of the question. Is there anyone else? What's wrong with Gomez?

[Hugh Deverel]

He's the only one.

[Victor Pemberton]

Joseph Gomez has a long record of Joseph. Dubious political activity. It would be unwise to expose him to public scrutiny, particularly in Redland. Oh, that's nonsense. Joseph's nothing more than a pacifist. He's no more politically minded than I am. I'm sorry. I cannot take the risk.

[Hugh Deverel]

Darling, you've got to. We have no choice. If the town's going to get another shaking like this, this man may at least be able to prepare us for it. Gentlemen, where is this Professor Gomez? How soon can we get hold of him? He's usually attached to the University of Santiago.

[Victor Pemberton]

No, he. He's over in Zurich at the moment attending a conference. We could probably get him over by the morning if he's interested enough. No, I absolutely forbid it. I will not have Gomez in this town.

[Hugh Deverel]

Very well, Mr. Deverel. But let me warn you, the whole nation is stunned by this appalling freak of nature. By tomorrow morning, there will be hardly a newspaper in the country that will not be buzzing with speculation of fear for the future. They and the people of this town have the right to know what they can expect. The chance to prepare for any eventuality. Are you going to deny them that right? Because it's up to you, Mr. Devereaux.

[Victor Pemberton]

It is up to you. Continental Airways announced arrival of their flight number 374 from Rome and Zurich. Joseph. Joseph, you old devil. There you are.

[Hugh Deverel]

John.

[Victor Pemberton]

John, it's good to see you again. And Professor Landers. How are you, sir? Welcome back, Joseph.

[Hugh Deverel]

Thank you for coming.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, thank you for asking me.

[Hugh Deverel]

Joseph, I want you to meet Mr. Hugh Devil. We should be working quite closely with him.

[Victor Pemberton]

How do you do, sir? Professor Gomez, thank you for coming. I've heard a lot about you, and I'VE heard a lot about you, sir. I look forward to seeing your new town. I hear it is quite remarkable. Really? Well, I hope we shan't have to detain you any longer than is absolutely necessary. I'm sure you'll be most eager to return your own work. My work is where science takes me, Mr. Devereaux. There are no boundaries. Good. Good. Well, follow me, please. I have a car waiting. 374 from Rome and jury passengers, please report to gate feet.

[Ken Richards]

It was announced early this morning that.

[Victor Pemberton]

The Royal Institute's Department of Geology had recorded last night's tremors as 4.6degrees.

[Ken Richards]

A spokesman for the Royal Institute told.

[Victor Pemberton]

Our correspondent this was the highest ever recorded in British seismological disturbance.

[Hugh Deverel]

Well, I.

[Victor Pemberton]

Meanwhile, in the tod they've got it on telly. The bewildered residents were still mopping up after a night of havoc and cake. You're missing. Was announced this evening that Mr. Hugh.

[Ken Richards]

Deverell, MP, chairman of the Deverell foundation, will launch an immediate appeal to the government for financial and other aid to.

[Victor Pemberton]

Compensate those distressed by damage and personal injury.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, Tug, what you do that for? I was watching the news.

[Victor Pemberton]

I don't want to hear no more news. Especially about Devereaux.

[Janet Marshall]

They had pictures of redlow. I saw Mrs. Luke.

[Victor Pemberton]

That must have been nice for you. We won't hear the last of that.

[Janet Marshall]

I reckon we'll get compensation, you know. Everybody seems to think so.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, I'm not paying for all these broken windows, that's for sure. Then what's up with him tonight?

[Janet Marshall]

I don't know. He's been going on like that all day. Can't be hungry. I only fed him at half past seven.

[Victor Pemberton]

Shut up, William. Mickey. Blasted nuisance.

[Janet Marshall]

Go and see what's wrong with him, Tug. He's giving me an ET Aid.

[Victor Pemberton]

You get my boot, that's what.

[Janet Marshall]

No, we won't have to worry about him much longer.

[Victor Pemberton]

Eh? What you say?

[Janet Marshall]

Well, he hasn't, has he? He has to die sooner or later. We all do.

[Victor Pemberton]

He's still only a puppy.

[Janet Marshall]

Mmm.

[Victor Pemberton]

Mickey. I say he's still only a puppy. Yes, you're right, lady.

[Janet Marshall]

Oh, yes, of course. Go out and see to him, Tug.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, give us that torch.

[Janet Marshall]

Here.

[Victor Pemberton]

I'll see to him, all right. Is it his heart to think?

[Ken Richards]

I don't know yet. Tell me, Inspector, how long has he been like this?

[Victor Pemberton]

I couldn't tell you. He's still been lying. If one of my blokes had noticed the front door wide open.

[Ken Richards]

Does he live alone?

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, Ted, he hadn't Moved out of these woods for years. Hates people. Think he's scared of them. That's why he locks himself away in this dump.

[Ken Richards]

Look in the left hand pocket of my bag, you'll find a syringe. Would you like to dig it out for me, please?

[Victor Pemberton]

Yes. Ryan? Yeah, must be 80 if he's a day. Sad when they end up like this, eh? Makes you sad old age, doesn't it? Is this the one? Oh, yes. Is he unconscious? Yes.

[Ken Richards]

It looks as though he's got concussion. Probably fell down during the tremors last night. Except I can't find any abrasions. Hold his arm out for me, will you? I'm going to give him an injection. Yeah, that's fine.

[Victor Pemberton]

Will he come out of it, you think?

[Ken Richards]

I don't know. There we are. Now if we can get him into my car, I'll run him straight up to Redlow Hospital.

[Victor Pemberton]

Right.

[Ken Richards]

I'll take the weight of his head. If you can just lift him up a little. That's it.

[Victor Pemberton]

Doc. Wait a minute. He's opening his eyes. Ted. Ted, can you hear me?

[Ken Richards]

He can't do.

[Victor Pemberton]

Look at his eyes. He's staring at me. What's he trying to say? Was it Ted? Ted? He's closed his eyes again, Doctor.

[Ken Richards]

Is he. No. Come on, let's get him to the car.

[Victor Pemberton]

I. I've never seen anything like that before. Those eyes. Will he make it to the hospital? I mean if he's heart.

[Ken Richards]

His heart is stronger than yours and mine, I can assure you.

[Victor Pemberton]

What? Are you sure, Doc?

[Ken Richards]

Absolutely.

[Victor Pemberton]

If it's not his heart, then what is it? The surface of the earth, you see, Mr. Deveretal, is like the thin crust on the top of a piece. When the pressure beneath is too great, the crust will break open. And that's what's happened here. A build up of pressure in the bowels of the earth. It is possible.

[Hugh Deverel]

But why has this happened, professor, all of a sudden like this?

[Victor Pemberton]

That is something that we have to find out, Mrs. Devenant. I have a feeling it's the release of an extraneous gas. The intensity of that earth movement seems to point to it. What, you mean volcanic? Yes. Except this area has no record of a volcanic history. And in any case there's been no smoke from the fissure.

[Hugh Deverel]

Whatever it is, I think we can take it that it must be something extremely powerful that can produce tremors on the scale.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yes. Which brings us back to this question of the English Channel. Professor Gomez, now do you believe the trouble originates there? It is only a theory, Mr. Devereaux. Nevertheless, that is the reason you're here, Professor. Now, perhaps you'd be good enough to tell us what it was you found so alarming about your channel's survey. I found two enormous cracks. Cracks? Where? On the seabed, in different positions. Both a short way from the seashore and both ridiculously out of proportion. About 50 yards long by 3ft wide.

[Hugh Deverel]

50 yards?

[Victor Pemberton]

Completely clean cuts. Just as though the. The rock had been forced open with a spade. But the most extraordinary part of it was that there was no sign of any marine life. Everything had gone within a radius of two or three miles of each fissure. The sea was dull, lifeless. Nothing lived or perhaps could live.

[Hugh Deverel]

Very strange.

[Victor Pemberton]

Did you find any more of these cracks? Oh, yes, Mr. Devereaux. Many more. So these disturbances on the seabed of the channel are now moving inland in. Is that what you're suggesting? What is your nearest point to see from here? No more than eight or nine miles of the outside.

[Hugh Deverel]

The other side of Dover.

[Victor Pemberton]

Robert, how long would it take to get me a complete seismological record of this area?

[Hugh Deverel]

Well, I could phone London first thing in the morning.

[Victor Pemberton]

Please do that. I want to know every detail.

[Hugh Deverel]

As far as I know, the only thing they've ever had down here are a few shock waves three or four years ago.

[Victor Pemberton]

John. Yes? As soon as it's light in the morning, we will take a look at that fracture in the surface of that road. Look, we shall need to take some samples. Is there somewhere we can use as a laboratory? Oh, yes. We have a brand new school. Their laboratory is extremely well equipped. I'll speak to the headmaster. Good.

[Hugh Deverel]

Professor Gomez, please be frank with us. Does this mean that from now on we're going to have to live for the rest of our lives fearing earthquakes here in England?

[Victor Pemberton]

You mustn't allow the prospect to concern you too much, Mrs. Deverel. In my country, earthquakes are a part of our national heritage. My people have lived in their shadow all their lives, and they have died. Well, at least you know what to expect. You're prepared. When the earth begins to tremble, Mr. Deverel, you are never prepared for those few terrifying seconds your complete world comes to a standstill. You can do nothing but put yourself into the hands of God. When that devil beneath your feet opens up the ground like the jaws of a serpent, you stand there poised on the edge like. Like a child, helpless. When it's all over, the child begins to wander around, too dazed to wake up. No, Mr. Devereaux. We are never prepared to meet this Devil. Whether it is in South America, in Japan, in Yugoslavia or even in Hollymill Lane.

[Ken Richards]

How's old Ted now? Can you see, Inspector?

[Victor Pemberton]

All right, I think. At least he's still breathing.

[Ken Richards]

A few more minutes, we'll be at the hospital.

[Victor Pemberton]

Yeah, good job too. I say. Gave me the shudders when he opened his eyes like that. Like somebody was already dead.

[Ken Richards]

Yeah, that's funny.

[Victor Pemberton]

What?

[Ken Richards]

Hollyman Lane. Look, there's someone moving around down there.

[Victor Pemberton]

Where? I can't see anybody.

[Ken Richards]

The left. Can you see the torch?

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, yes. There's two of them. They must be out of their minds or something. That whole lanes out of bounds. We gotta stop them going near that gap.

[Ken Richards]

Come on, Inspector.

[Victor Pemberton]

Mickey. Mickey, you round here. Oh, it's no use. He gone?

[Janet Marshall]

No, he's over there.

[Victor Pemberton]

Where?

[Janet Marshall]

In that bush on the other side.

[Victor Pemberton]

I can't see nothing, much too dark.

[Janet Marshall]

He's there. I know he's there.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, there he stays. I'm not going to try and cross over that gap. The old. I'll cave in me with it.

[Janet Marshall]

You shouldn't be afraid, Tug. It's not like you.

[Victor Pemberton]

I tell you, he's not over there. If he was it. Oh, Mickey, you stupid looking. Oh, dear. Yeah. Over talks, then. Right, stand back. I've got to jump.

[Janet Marshall]

Be careful.

[Victor Pemberton]

Keep out the way now. Over. Ah, now, come here, will you? You trying to make me break my neck or something? Tom, what the hell do you think you're doing?

[Ken Richards]

You'll get yourself killed doing things like that.

[Victor Pemberton]

I'm all right, quite all right.

[Janet Marshall]

The dog broke his leash.

[Victor Pemberton]

It's not only a break if you don't get back here. You know how deep that thing is, Mr. Wilson?

[Janet Marshall]

Very deep.

[Victor Pemberton]

I'm coming back.

[Ken Richards]

Don't be a fool, man. You can't jump that gap holding the dog. Go the long way round.

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, no. Just keep out the way. I'll be all right. If it wasn't so dark.

[Ken Richards]

Inspector, run up and put on my car headlights, will you? He's going to go straight down this lot if you don't. Right, Quick as you can.

[Victor Pemberton]

I'm all right, I tell you. I don't know what you're kicking up all these. Now just stay where you are.

[Ken Richards]

Do as I say. Mrs. Wilson.

[Janet Marshall]

Yes.

[Ken Richards]

You'll be saving us all an awful lot of trouble if you just go.

[Victor Pemberton]

Straight back to the house.

[Ken Richards]

It's extremely dangerous out here.

[Janet Marshall]

I'm not scared. Not a bit. Why should I be scared of the night? It's the best time. I feel wide awake.

[Ken Richards]

Keep back, will you? The soil's falling all the time.

[Janet Marshall]

Tug.

[Victor Pemberton]

What?

[Hugh Deverel]

Give me your hand.

[Ken Richards]

No. Don't be a fool.

[Janet Marshall]

It's all right. He won't fall. I won't let him. Give me your hand. Tug.

[Ken Richards]

No.

[Janet Marshall]

That's right, love. Just a little further.

[Ken Richards]

Come on.

[Victor Pemberton]

Don't jump. Don't.

[Janet Marshall]

There, you see? I didn't let you fall, did I?

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, the next time he goes out with. There he stays, you fool. Doctor. Doctor, come quick, please.

[Ken Richards]

What's the matter, Inspector? What's happened?

[Victor Pemberton]

Oh, Ted, the old boy, he's gone from the car. What? Disappeared? The car door was wide open. I can't find him anywhere.

[Ken Richards]

He was unconscious. He can't have just walked off.

[Victor Pemberton]

Well, he has. And if we don't get hold of him pretty soon. What's the matter with you? Now, Mickey. Shut up, all of you.

[Ken Richards]

Listen.

[Victor Pemberton]

What? Listen.

[Ken Richards]

Can't you hear it?

[Victor Pemberton]

What? What is it?

[Ken Richards]

Give me the torch. Somebody give me that torch.

[Victor Pemberton]

The road.

[Ken Richards]

Look at the crack in the road.

[Hugh Deverel]

It's mud.

[Ken Richards]

A slide of mud coming out of the crack.

[Hugh Deverel]

Just look at it.

[Janet Marshall]

It's all right, Doug.

[Victor Pemberton]

It's all right. Look, it's coming over the top. All the way along. It's coming over the top. Come on. That was episode one of the Slide by Victor Pemberton, with Morris Denham as Hugh Deverell MP and Roger Delgado as Joseph Gomez. The part of Professor Landers was played by roll lever, Dr. Ken Richards by David Spencer, Anna Deverell by Marian Matthy, and Professor Lippert by Alan McLellan, Inspector Baxter, Jeffrey Matthews, Janet Marshall, Elizabeth Proud, Tug Wilson, Stephen Jack, Police Sergeant Wilfred Babbage, Mrs. Wilson, Miriam Margulies. Other parts were played by members of the BBC Drama Repertory Company. Special sound was by the BBC Radiophonic Workshop and the recorded production was by John Tyman. Episode two will be broadcast next Sunday at 7:00.