"COURT MARTIAL"

Teleplay by:
Tony Barwick

Directed by:
Ron Appleton

Created by:
Gerry and Sylvia Anderson & Reg Hill

Producer:
Reg Hill

Executive Producer:
Gerry Anderson

transcribed by Scott Tuffnell and Deborah Rorabaugh


INTERIOR : A LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM SOMEWHERE IN SHADO HQ.
GENERAL JAMES HENDERSON comes in followed by FOUR MEN. They go to the table at the front of the room and sit facing an assembled audience (A courtroom). Certain SHADO personnel are present including ALEC FREEMAN, ED STRAKER. PAUL FOSTER is seated with WEBB at a separate table. Foster seems nervous. JACKSON is seated at a table opposite Foster's

HENDERSON
The accused will stand.

Foster and Webb stand.

HENDERSON
I want to make my position clear. The verdict in this case has been taken by the four jury officers but I would like to establish as a matter of record that I find myself in agreement with them. After due deliberation they have found Colonel Foster guilty of the charge as stated. Under article 183 the sentence is specific. The execution was fixed for twelve-hundred hours the 19th of next month. Any appeal must be lodged within 14 days.

CLOSE-UP ON WALL LOGO

OPENING TITLES.

FADE TO:

FLASHBACK -- MANY DAYS BEFORE THE COURT MARTIAL OCCURRED.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE - SHADO
Straker is preparing to leave for the day. he heads for the door

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL
The control room personnel look up as Commander Ed Straker strides through. He approaches FORD.

STRAKER
Has Colonel Freeman left?

FORD
Yes, sir, a couple of hours ago. Shall I contact him?

STRAKER
No, that's alright. I'll call him at home.

INTERIOR : STUDIO OFFICE
Straker sits at the desk looking over papers. The room-elevator is rising and as it reaches the top we see that it is night outside. When the motion stops, Straker grabs his briefcase goes to the door and it opens onto:

INTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER OUTER OFFICE
Straker enters from the inner office. A tiny radio is playing on the desk. Straker picks it up to look at it. It is very tiny - no more than an inch across.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR
Straker drives his car and picks up the car phone.

INTERIOR : FREEMAN'S BEDROOM
Freeman is asleep with blankets over his head. The phone on the side table chirps and Freeman grabs it without uncovering his head. Sleepily, he answers.

FREEMAN
Freeman.

STRAKER (on phone)
Alec.

FREEMAN
Oh, don't you ever sleep?

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR

STRAKER
I hope I didn't wake you up.

FREEMAN (on phone)
Oh, sure...

STRAKER
Listen, Alec. There's a few things I want to check. Now, first of all ---

An alarm sounds in Straker's car.

STRAKER
Hold it.

INTERIOR : FREEMAN'S BEDROOM
Freeman sits up in the bed.

FREEMAN
What is it? What's wrong?

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR

STRAKER
Don't say anything. I've got an E Alarm.

INTERIOR : FREEMAN'S BEDROOM
Freeman is listening to the phone, obviously worried.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR
Straker is distracted, looking for a bugging device, but keeps driving. A truck narrowly misses him. Straker swerves his car and comes to a stop at the road side.

INTERIOR : FREEMAN'S BEDROOM

FREEMAN
Are you alright? Ed, are you alright?

EXTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR
Straker's car is parked by the side of the road.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S CAR
Straker has set the phone on the passenger seat as he searches the car.

FREEMAN (on phone)
Can you hear me?

STRAKER
(picks up phone)
Yes, I'm fine, Alec. It was a bugging device. Somebody's out to get us, Alec. I've got a pretty good idea who it is.

EXTERIOR : IAC BUILDING

INTERIOR : GENERAL HENDERSON'S OFFICE, OUTER OFFICE
Straker and Freeman barge into the office, past MISS SCOTT. She starts to get up from her seat.

SCOTT
Mister Straker ...

STRAKER
Thank you, Miss Scott, we'll go straight through.

SCOTT
But, Mister Straker ...

FREEMAN
It's alright, just show us where we sharpen our knives.

Miss Scott follows Straker and Freeman into Henderson's office. Henderson is seated. DR. DOUG JACKSON stands beside the desk.

SCOTT
I'm sorry, sir.

HENDERSON
Oh, don't worry, Miss Scott. Stopping runaway trains is not part of your job.

Miss Scott leaves.

HENDERSON
Straker this is a most unpleasant surprise.

STRAKER
Yes, I'm sure.

HENDERSON
You know Jackson of course.

STRAKER
Of course, the eyes and ears of the world.

JACKSON
Commander. Colonel Freeman.

FREEMAN
I'd shake hands but, you know how it is, I can't bare to touch anything slippery.

HENDERSON
Well, now we've dispensed with the pleasantries. I presume that this is not just a social call.

STRAKER
Alec.

Freeman produces a small cylindrical device. He hands it to Straker who hands it to Jackson.

STRAKER
Yours, I believe.

Jackson takes the device and studies it quizzically.

JACKSON
Yes. Standard mark 4 bugging device. Range about three miles.

STRAKER
Planted in my car! Why?

HENDERSON
Two reasons. One to test your security.

STRAKER
And the real reason?

HENDERSON
Two days ago we had to squash a press report. It concerned a Skydiver's rendezvous with a supply ship. It named the exact position and time. We had to go right to the top to get a suppression notice.

JACKSON
Yes, it would have been unfortunate for Skydiver to have surfaced and been greeted by a boat load of reporters and photographers.

STRAKER
Is this some kind of a sick joke, Henderson?

HENDERSON
(stands, angry)
You have got yourself some kind of security breach, you'd better believe me.

JACKSON
We've checked. The information was never circulated. It's specific to Shado HQ under the studio.

HENDERSON
To put it bluntly, someone you know, work with every day, is a security hazard.

STRAKER
Just give us the details. We'll find out who it is.

HENDERSON
If you don't, we will.

EXTERIOR : AN APARTMENT BUILDING - FOSTER'S

INTERIOR : FOSTER'S APARTMENT LIVING ROOM
Paul Foster is seated on the sofa with a FILM AGENT The Agent's client, the voluptuous DIANA is seated in a chair near-by.

AGENT
It's been very nice dealing with you, Mr Foster.

FOSTER
Well, let's hope it works out.

AGENT
Oh, don't worry, it will, I promise you. I wouldn't let Diana here sign a contract if I didn't think she had a great future. You know one day your studio is going to thank me. This is just the start of a long friendly relationship.

FOSTER
(stands)
Well, don't forget the contract is subject to the Director's approval.

AGENT
(stands, shakes hands with Foster)
Oh, of course. I'm sure we can come to some arrangement, Mr. Foster. We can help each other. You know what I mean?

INTERIOR : SHADO HQ, STRAKER'S OFFICE
Straker and Freeman are looking over some papers, obviously concerned.

FREEMAN
Henderson is right. We've got a problem on our hands. It's a pretty frightening experience, walking around out there knowing that somebody you have known for years ---

STRAKER
Has sunk just about as low as you can get.

FREEMAN
But who is it?

Straker produces some documents and hands them to Freeman who reads them,

STRAKER
The coded message to Skydiver, the one that was leaked.

FREEMAN
Authorised and sent by (beat) Colonel Foster.

INTERIOR : SOUND STAGE
Foster is standing and watching a projection of a roller coaster ride (starts close and pulls back to show projection screen.) as Straker approaches him. A FILM CREW is working near by.

FOSTER
Hi.

STRAKER
How's it going?

FOSTER
Oh great. There's more to making movies than people think. I'm learning something new everyday.

STRAKER
Yes, that happens to most of us. I want to talk to you.

FOSTER
Oh, sure.

STRAKER
I mean now. Get rid of the crew.

FOSTER
(puzzled, surprised)
Okay boys, take an early lunch. Oh, leave the machine running will you? I want to see the rest of those shots.

The crew leaves, leaving Straker and Foster alone in front of the projection.

CUT TO:
SHADO CONTROL:
Freeman is on the phone.

FREEMAN
Are you certain? (pause) Right.... right I'll check it out... yes, I'll tell him.

CUT TO:
Foster and Straker. Straker is in a foul mood.

STRAKER
Close the door.

Foster presses a button on a nearby control console and we hear the door to the room close. Straker then hands Foster a document.

STRAKER
You transmitted this three days ago.

FOSTER
Yeah, but this is..er.... Well, hadn't we better go to your office or something?

STRAKER
Worried about security? Maybe I feel just as secure right here. (beat) Did you transmit that message?

FOSTER
Well, yes.

STRAKER
I believe I outrank you, Foster.

FOSTER
Yes.

STRAKER
Yes what?

FOSTER
(comes to attention)
Yes, sir.

STRAKER
That's better. Let's keep it that way.

FOSTER
Look, what's all this about?

STRAKER
Just answer my questions. Now, who else knew about the Skydiver transmission?

FOSTER
Well, I did mention it to Alec Freeman.

STRAKER
You gave him exact position, details, time?

FOSTER
No, sir.

STRAKER
Did you talk about it to anyone else?

FOSTER
No...sir.

STRAKER
Then how is it that this information, which you say you told no one, got into the hands of a newspaper?

FOSTER
A newspaper?

STRAKER
Yes. Giving the exact time and position of Skydiver's rendezvous with the supply ship.

FOSTER
I just don't understand.

STRAKER
Neither do I.

Straker's pager beeps. He pulls it from his pocket, raises the antenna and answers.

STRAKER
Straker.

FREEMAN (over radio)
I've just had Henderson on the line.

INTERIOR : SHADO CONTROL

FREEMAN (continued)
There's been another security leak. It concerned a routine flight from moonbase.

INTERIOR : SOUND STAGE

STRAKER
Who planned and authorised it?

FREEMAN
(over radio)
Foster.

STRAKER
Thank you, Alec.

Straker hangs up and glares at Foster.

FOSTER
I don't get it.

STRAKER
How about an explanation.

FOSTER
An explanation? Explain what? What do you think I've done?

STRAKER
I'm not thinking anything. I'm interested in facts.

FOSTER
Well, I'm sorry. I just don't know how I can help you. Well, this whole thing is ridiculous.

STRAKER
Ridiculous? Maybe you'll think a military court is ridiculous.

FOSTER
A military court?

STRAKER
When I tell Henderson the position the outcome is obvious. And you'd better consider this. Shado is run as a military organization. We're at war. And you realise the penalty for espionage.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS BUILDING
A Mercedes Benz drives up and stops in front of the building

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S SHADO OFFICE
Freeman and Straker are waiting. Freeman checks his watch.

FREEMAN
Three minutes to nine.

STRAKER
Right.

INTERIOR : A LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM SOMEWHERE IN SHADO HQ.
Henderson and four other officers are seated at an improvised judicial bench. Shado personnel of high importance are present including military counsel, witnesses and the accused. Paul Foster, flanked by guards, is seated alongside council defence, WEBB. Doug Jackson himself is seated at the prosecutor's table. Straker and Freeman take their seats.

HENDERSON
Guards.

The guards close and lock the entrance doors then position themselves beside the doors.

HENDERSON
I convene this court martial by the authority invested in me under Article eight of our charter. I must remind you that as of now everyone in this room is under oath to speak the truth. The Prosecuting Officer may proceed.

JACKSON
The accused, Colonel Paul Foster, is indicted under section 183 of Shado security regulations. I intend to show that he, and he alone, is responsible for, and therefore guilty of the worst crime that can be perpetrated against our organisation - espionage.

Jackson sits, Webb stands

WEBB
The defense forgoes his right to speak at this time.

HENDERSON
Very well. The prosecuting officer will proceed.

JACKSON
My first witness. Lieutenant Ford.

Ford comes forward and sits in the witness chair. He glances at a device on the table beside the chair.

JACKSON
You are Lieutenant Keith Ford and you are a senior operative of Shado Control?

FORD
Yes, sir.

JACKSON
Do you recognise the apparatus on the table beside you?

FORD
Yes, sir. It's a standard code and transmit device.

JACKSON
Like the one used at Shado Control?

FORD
Yes.

JACKSON
Will you ... will you tell us how it works?

FORD
The primary circuits are a series of electrical scanners positioned in series ---

HENDERSON
Lieutenant, we'd be grateful if you'd keep the explanation as simple as possible.

FORD
Yes, sir. The information is inserted here...
(pointing to input slot on the device)

JACKSON
I see. In what form is this information?

FORD
Hand written on a standard input docket.

JACKSON
(holding up a long pink card.)
Like this?

FORD
Yes.

JACKSON
But you say the message or whatever is written. It seems an antiquated method in this..er... electronic age.

FORD
It's one of the best security checks we have. This device is programmed to scan the card and compare it with standard samples. It will only accept genuine authorised input.

JACKSON
So, for example, if I wrote a message for transmission...?

FORD
It would be scanned and rejected as would a forgery.

JACKSON
I see. Whose handwriting is the coder programmed to accept?

FORD
Commander Straker's, Colonel Freeman's.......and Colonel Foster's.

JACKSON
And Colonel Foster's. I see. The information is then coded and transmitted automatically?

FORD
Yes, sir.

JACKSON
Thank you, Lieutenant.

As Jackson moves away, Webb stands.

WEBB
Lieutenant, what happens to the input card?

FORD
It gets destroyed inside the coder.

WEBB
But a record is kept of the input?

FORD
Yes, in the coder's memory bank.

WEBB
So that if you, for example, wanted to, lieutenant, you could check the content of the transmission?

FORD
Yes, sir.

WEBB
And so could anyone else in the control room at the time?

FORD
Yes. Anyone.

WEBB
Thank you.

Webb resumes his seat. Jackson stands.

JACKSON
Just how could you check the content of the transmission?

FORD
You select a relevant number on the keys and the information is printed out.

JACKSON
On another card similar to this?

FORD
Yes, sir.

JACKSON
But..er... isn't it printed out in code as it was transmitted?

Ford nods agreement

JACKSON
And isn't it necessary to use a computer run to decode it? When was the last computer run of this kind?

FORD
About two weeks ago.

JACKSON
Two weeks ago. And the transmissions concerned in the security leak were both sent within the last five days. That's all, Lieutenant.

Ford leaves

JACKSON
Would Captain Waterman come forward, please.

Captain WATERMAN comes forward and sits.

WATERMAN
Captain Lew Waterman, at present commanding Officer, Skydiver.

JACKSON
I have just one question, Captain. Did you know the contents of the orders concerning supply ship rendezvous transmitted to your submarine by Colonel Foster?

WATERMAN
No.

JACKSON
Could you explain why, Captain?

WATERMAN
Well, until we receive confirmation, the message remains un-coded in our computer memory.

JACKSON
Is this a standard procedure for security reasons?

WATERMAN
Yes.

JACKSON
So neither you nor any of your crew could have leaked the information?

WATERMAN (mumbled)
No.

JACKSON
Would you mind speaking up, Captain?

WATERMAN
No.

JACKSON
Thank you.

Jackson sits, Webb stands.

WEBB
No questions.

INTERIOR : SOUND STAGE
CARL MASON, a director working for Harlington-Straker Studios, is looking over a set of photographs and conferring with an ASSOCIATE. The sound-stage around them is very busy and loud.

MASON
Are you sure about this?

ASSOCIATE
Certain, I've seen it myself.

MASON
Well, that's just great.
(Mason turns to leave)
Set up the reverse. Keep it fairly low.

ASSOCIATE
Where will you be?

MASON
I'm going to see Ed Straker. He's supposed to be the head of this studio.

Mason stalks away

INTERIOR : CONFERENCE ROOM
Straker has been called as a witness and sits on the witness chair.

STRAKER
Straker. Commander and Chief of Shado operations.

JACKSON
Commander Straker, is Colonel Foster a friend of yours?

STRAKER
He's an officer, serving under my command.

JACKSON
But is he also a friend?

STRAKER
Not in the sense you mean.

JACKSON
This comrade, is he guilty of espionage? a traitor... a spy! ...In your opinion, of course.

STRAKER
You mean my opinion as a man or as Colonel Foster's commanding officer?

JACKSON
Why don't you give us the benefit of both answers, Commander.

STRAKER
Very well, as a man my opinions are private and therefore no concern of this hearing. As Colonel Foster's superior officer, I'm interested in facts, not guesses.

JACKSON
No more questions.

Jackson resumes his seat and Webb stands.

WEBB
Colonel Foster is a comparatively new member of Shado?

STRAKER
Yes.

WEBB
And you authorised his acceptance?

STRAKER
Yes, that's correct.

WEBB
On what did you base your decision?

STRAKER
On the basis of the physical, psychiatric and computer tests. On his past record as an Air Force pilot, civilian pilot. And on my judgment.

WEBB
He has security clearance?

STRAKER
Naturally.

WEBB
Is this a copy of the security report on Colonel Foster?
(handing Straker a sheet of paper.)

STRAKER
(looking over papers)
Yes, it is.

WEBB
Commander, would you read out aloud, please, the last paragraph?

STRAKER
(reading)
'Colonel Foster is considered to be an excellent security risk and we recommend class A clearance.'

WEBB
Thank you, Commander.

Webb sits, Jackson stands again.

JACKSON
Commander, you will see that I was one of the examining officers on that report.

STRAKER
Yes, your signature is here.

JACKSON
Well, it only goes to show that we can all make mistakes, don't you agree?

Straker glares at him.

JACKSON
Thank you, Commander.

Jackson resumes his seat.

HENDERSON
I think that this might be an appropriate time to adjourn. We resume in 1400 hours.

Straker and Freeman stand

STRAKER
(to Freeman)
I need some air.

With court adjourned, the assembly makes their way out of the room.

INTERIOR : MISS EALAND'S OFFICE
MISS EALAND tries to hold up Straker and Freeman as they come outof the inner office.

EALAND
Er.. excuse me, sir. Carl Mason wants to see you. He said it was very urgent.

STRAKER
Not now, Miss Ealand.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER LOT
Straker is outside for a breath of fresh air, walking around the lots. Mason sees him and rushes after him.

MASON
Straker!

Straker hears Mason, stops to look, then hurries away. Mason cannot catch up does not see where Straker disappeared to.

INTERIOR : A LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM SOMEWHERE IN SHADO HQ.
The court as assembled as before

HENDERSON
The defending Officer may proceed.

WEBB
So far the facts to emerge from this hearing are that Colonel Foster was indeed in possession of the said classified material. But there has been no proof whatsoever that he passed on that information to any outside persons. I therefore do not intend to take up the time of the court with character references for the accused. His record speaks for itself. I call Colonel Foster.

Foster comes to the witness stand.

FOSTER
Foster, Paul J. Eight-zero-four.

WEBB
Colonel, are you guilty of the charges as stated?

FOSTER
Not guilty.

WEBB
Have you ever passed on classified information to any unauthorised person or persons?

FOSTER
Never.

WEBB
Thank you.

Webb sits down and Jackson moves forward.

JACKSON
Colonel Foster, would you say that you have a nervous disposition?

FOSTER
You're the psychiatrist.

JACKSON
Please answer my question.

FOSTER
Normally, no. I'm not a nervous person.

JACKSON
Under extreme stress you stay reasonably calm.

FOSTER
Reasonably.

JACKSON
It's part of your profession, isn't it? And part of your training to remain calm in abnormal conditions.

FOSTER
Yes.

JACKSON
(stepping close to Foster)
Colonel Foster, are you nervous now?

FOSTER
Where's all this getting us?

JACKSON
Please answer my question. Are you nervous now?

FOSTER
Why should I be?

JACKSON
Yes or no! Answer my question.

FOSTER
No!

JACKSON
You do surprise me. You stand accused of giving classified information to the press, endangering the security of Shado....and the lives! The lives of everyone in it!

WEBB
(stands)
I object! My client is being deliberately baited!

HENDERSON
Overruled! This is not a civil court of law. We're after the facts, the truth.
(to Jackson)
Continue.

JACKSON
Colonel Foster, did you or did you not violate section 8, paragraph 5 of the Shado security regulations?

FOSTER
I did not.

JACKSON
Then how do you account for the fact that the press got hold of this information?

FOSTER
I don't know, I suggest you ask the press.

JACKSON
And I suggest, Colonel Foster, that you are lying.

FOSTER
I did not give classified information to any newspaper.

JACKSON
Alright, Colonel Foster...but...er....I have one last question.

Jackson pulls out a file and hands it to Foster who opens and looks at it.

JACKSON
Here's a photostat of your personal bank account. $10,000 was paid in on the 10th by an unnamed subscriber. Could you explain that, Foster?

FOSTER
(disturbed)
I can't. It's the first I've heard of it.

JACKSON
Very convenient.

FOSTER
What are you implying?

JACKSON
Implying? I am stating that the money was payment for espionage, the going price for a traitor, the rewards of a spy! I am stating that you sold Shado's secrets to the press for the sum of $10,000.

FOSTER
I tell you I know nothing of how that money got there! It's a plant! Someone's trying to frame me!

JACKSON
Perhaps a little nervous now, Foster?

FOSTER
This whole thing is ridiculous!
Foster jumps to his feet.
He's twisting the facts!

Webb stands.

WEBB
I really must protest. My client is again being deliberately baited.

HENDERSON
Order! I want order here!

FOSTER
It's a pack of lies from start to finish and he knows it!

INTERIOR : SHADO - STRAKER'S OFFICE
Straker and Freeman are questioning Foster.

STRAKER
Alright, Foster, where did that cheque come from?

FOSTER
I don't know.

STRAKER
Now, I'm going to ask you just once more. Where did that money come from?

FOSTER
I tell you, I don't know.

STRAKER
Alright.
(to Freeman)
Alec, how can we find out about it?

FREEMAN
A Swiss numbered account? You tell me.

Long pause as all three man think. Foster crosses the room to sit.

FOSTER
Sir, as my commanding officer, do you think I'm guilty? Whatever you say can't affect the decision now. I'd just like to know.

STRAKER
All the evidence in that court martial says 'yes', but if you want a gut reaction.....no.

Foster smiles with gratitude as a phone beeps. Freeman answers.

FREEMAN
(to phone)
Colonel Freeman. Right.
(hangs up phone - to Straker and Foster)
They're coming back in.

FADE IN:

INTERIOR : A LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM SOMEWHERE IN SHADO HQ.
The court is assembled as before.

HENDERSON
They have found Colonel Foster guilty of the charge as stated. Under Article 183 the sentence is specific. The execution was fixed for 1200 hours the 19th of next month. Any appeal must be lodged within 14 days. (pause) This court martial is closed.

Close on Foster - he is stunned at the result

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE
Straker and Freeman are talking.

FREEMAN
It's incredible, there wasn't one piece of tangible evidence.

STRAKER
Foster was found guilty through a series of airtight negatives. Information was leaked to the press. Foster was the only one who knew that information. He told no one - his word. And the coder transmitter is security proof.

FREEMAN
There must be some other explanation.

INTERIOR : JANE GRANT'S APARTMENT
JANE GRANT, is on the phone. She has a cool disposition, is well spoken and gives the impression of being in control.

Grant
Well, it appears to be military. No, no I can't give you the source. I just happened on it by chance. Yes, yes I'll certainly do that... and the . . er . . usual arrangement? (pause) Right.

She hangs up the phone

INTERIOR : HOLDING CELL
TWO UNIFORMED GUARDS stand by the door. The room is bare except for a table with chair and a cot. Foster is laying on the cot. GUARD ONE enters the cell.

GUARD ONE
Is there anything you want, Colonel?

FOSTER
No thanks.

GUARD ONE
It could be a long night. Shall I ask the doctor to get you something to help you sleep?

FOSTER
No thnaks. I'll be fine.

Foster's mind is centered on his fate. He stares up that the ceiling.

CUT-TO:
The display behind Straker's desk in the SHADO Commander's office. The swirling colours are strangely mesmerizing......hypnotic.

INTERIOR : MISS EALAND'S OFFICE (next morning)
Carl Mason is waiting, lying on the couch. He looks as though he has slept there. Straker opens the door and enters. Mason sees Straker and gets to his feet.

MASON
Did you sleep well, Mr Straker?

STRAKER
As a matter of fact, no.

MASON
Well, that's too bad. Because I didn't sleep at all.

STRAKER
It's Carl Mason, isn't it?

MASON
Well, recognition at last from the big white chief!

STRAKER
You'll have to excuse me.

Straker moves to get past Mason - Mason grabs Straker's arm.

MASON
Listen Straker, I've been trying to talk to you for the last three days.

STRAKER
Everybody has problems, some more important than others.
(looks down at Mason's hand on his arm)
Take your hand off me.

MASON
Oh no, I've telephoned you a dozen times, I've practically slept in this office. Now, you're going to listen to me.

STRAKER
(pulling away from Mason)
Mason, I'm warning you.

MASON
You say you've got troubles? Here's another one you can add to your list. There's a security leak!

STRAKER
Security leak?

MASON
Look, I'm making a picture here, perhaps you may recall. The whole thing hinges on a pulsed light system, new design. I hear a rival company are building a replica.

STRAKER
Industrial espionage?

MASON
Right. I'm giving you just twelve hours to kick Paul Foster out of this studio.

STRAKER
(worried, alarmed)
What's Foster got to do with it?

MASON
He's the one guy I discussed this system with.

STRAKER
Where?

MASON
Does it make any difference?

STRAKER
(insistent)
Where did you discuss it?

MASON
In his apartment.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIOS

A SHADO car pulls out of the lot

EXTERIOR : COUNTRY ROAD
A SHADO car with Straker and Freeman heading down the road.

INTERIOR : CAR

FREEMAN
It's a pretty long shot.

STRAKER
It's a pretty hairy coincidence.

EXTERIOR : FOSTER'S APARTMENT BUILDING

INTERIOR : FOSTER'S APARTMENT
It is obvious from the disarray and disassembled phone that Freeman and Straker have been searching the place. Freeman holds what looks like a radio with a meter on its face in his hand as Straker enters the room from the corridor.

STRAKER
Anything?

FREEMAN
Nothing. Foster's not a fool. He would have run the standard check every week. What did Henderson have to say?

STRAKER
He wasn't available. I don't know why I bothered to call him. He wouldn't be interested unless we came up with something concrete. Well, you better reassemble that.

Straker indicates the disassembled telephone.

FREEMAN
Why bother? Foster's not going to need it.

INTERIOR : HOLDING CELL
The guard stands by the door watching as Foster sits at the table, finishing his meal. There is a small chess board on the table and Foster moves a piece.

FOSTER
Well, there's not much wrong with my appetite. What time's Webb arriving?

GUARD
Two-thirty. Don't worry, he's a good defending officer. He'll make the appeal stick.

FOSTER
Yeah sure. How about some more coffee?

INTERIOR: FOSTER'S APARTMENT

Straker paces

STRAKER
I was almost sure.

FREEMAN
There's nothing here. Let's go.

STRAKER
(going to stand by the desk)
No, wait a minute, Alec. Now when Foster was working he'd sit here. And when Mason was here, he said they'd driven over from the studio and arrived at about 7:30. Now what would Foster do?

Straker and Freeman look around the room, at the large terrarium set into one corner of the room.

FREEMAN
Environmental therapy.

STRAKER
Let's check it again.

Straker throws a near-by light switch and the terrarium lights come on. The detector in Freeman's hand buzzes loudly.

FREEMAN
Positive!

Straker undoes his jacket, obviously preparing for a long haul.

STRAKER
Okay, Alec. Let's take this place apart. Get a group over here.

Freeman goes to the phone and picks it up.

LATER
TWO SHADO OPERATIVES have joined Straker and Freeman. Foster's apartment has been ransacked. Straker is rummaging through the terrarium. He stands, holding up a tiny electronic gadget.

STRAKER
Here's another one. A very clever set up. Two audio transmitters and three miniaturized cameras.

FREEMAN
And all activated by the display lights.

MASTERS enters with a tape recorder.

MASTERS
We found this on some waste ground about a mile away.

Freeman examines the device.

FREEMAN
Tape recorder.

MASTERS
Yes, with a built in radio receiver. When this stuff starts transmitting it receives and records the data and the contact comes along and picks up the tape.

STRAKER
Find out where all this is made.

MASTERS
Yes, sir.

EXTERIOR : LONDON STREET WITH RUN-DOWN ELECTRONICS SHOP
The SHADO car with Straker and Freeman drives up and stops. Straker and Freeman get out and enter the shop.

INTERIOR : RUN-DOWN ELECTRONICS SHOP
A YOUNG WOMAN is standing near the counter.

STRAKER
Who runs this place?

SINGLETON enters from the back room

SINGLETON
I do. Why?

STRAKER
I believe this is one of your gadgets.

Straker places the recorder on the counter.

SINGLETON
Maybe ... maybe not.

STRAKER
Now, look, funny man ...

STRAKER
(to young woman)
Miss, get lost.

The young woman leaves quickly.

SINGLETON
Now, you listen. This is private property!

STRAKER
There are two ways you can play this Singleton. One is the easy way.

SINGLETON
Joe.

A large man (JOE) comes forward from out the back. He takes a swing at Freeman, but Freeman easily overpowers him thug with two well-placed jabs sending him sprawling into the room from where he came.

SINGLETON
What do you want?

STRAKER
The name and address of the client who bought that electronic peeping Tom.

INTERIOR : STRAKER'S OFFICE
Webb and Jackson are waiting in the office. The doors open and Foster enters. Two guards can be seen standing outside as the doors close.

JACKSON
Hello, Colonel. How are they treating you?

FOSTER
Great.

WEBB
I've drafted the appeal. It needs your signature.

Webb hands a paper to Foster who goes to Straker's desk to sign it. Webb takes the papers and hands them to Jackson.

JACKSON
Yes, a valuable document. Rather fragile, but valuable.

Foster starts walking around the office

FOSTER
You're a psychiatrist, Jackson. Would you say Commander Straker has an artistic temperament?

JACKSON
No. I don't think so.

FOSTER
Then why would he have a display like this behind his desk? I've often thought about it.

Foster indicates the swirling coloured panel behind Straker's desk.

JACKSON
Perhaps it soothes his nerves.

FOSTER
What would you say is the strongest instinct in man? Love . . hate . . self preservation ---

JACKSON
(alarmed)
Guards!!!

Too late! Foster dives through the display in a shower of glass into what is obviously a hidden elevator. The elevator doors close as alarms ring out and shots are fired.

JACKSON
(to intercom on desk)
Colonel Foster 804. Alert groups two and three.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER STUDIO LOTS
Foster comes out of the side door and sprints away from the sound of the wailing sirens. THREE SECURITY GUARDS give chase.

INTERIOR : SHADO CAR
Straker is on the car phone as Freeman drives.

STRAKER
I want a pickup on Miss Jane Grant. Address...

FREEMAN
(Straker holds phone to Freeman's ear - to phone)
One hundred and twenty-four Eastern Avenue.

STRAKER
You got that? Right.... At the studio and..er... put me through to General Henderson. Priority A.
(to Freeman with a wry smile)
This I'm going to enjoy.

INTERIOR : HENDERSON'S OFFICE
Henderson listens to the phone a moment.

HENDERSON
Alright, Straker, you may have new evidence but I've got something for you. Foster escaped twenty minutes ago. Groups two and three have been alerted.

CUT TO:

STRAKER
What? But you can't do that!

HENDERSON
(over phone)
Now, listen. Foster knows the complete set up.

HENDERSON

HENDERSON
He was found guilty of espionage. I'm not risking the whole organisation for one man. My orders are to shoot on sight.

INTERIOR : CAR

STRAKER
But his apartment was bugged.

HENDERSON
Was it? Or was it his way of passing on the information. It will take positive proof of innocence to convince me.
Straker hangs up.

STRAKER
(to Freeman)
We need an affidavit from that Miss Grant. And we need it fast.

EXTERIOR : HARLINGTON-STRAKER FILM LOT
Foster is running for his life over quite some distance from the main complex. He manages to evade bullets whizzing past him. But he is slowing down and the guards are getting closer.

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE
Miss Ealand is working as Straker and Freeman walk in

STRAKER
Is Miss Grant here?

EALAND
Yes, sir. She's in your office.

INTERIOR : STUDIO OFFICE
Straker enters the office. Jane Grant lounges in a chair as Ford stands guard.

STRAKER
Thank you, Ford.

Straker gestures Ford to leave. Ford exits, leaving Straker alone with the woman.

GRANT
I assume you have a very good explanation as to why I have been brought here.

STRAKER
You are an industrial spy.

GRANT
It all sounds so sordid.

STRAKER
You had an apartment bugged for sound and vision. It belonged to Paul Foster.

GRANT
Did I?

STRAKER
The electronics were supplied by a man named Singleton. He's told us everything.

GRANT
Then I suggest you send for the police.

STRAKER
You know as well as I do that industrial espionage is not indictable.

GRANT
Then I suggest you have me driven home.

EXTERIOR : OPEN, SPARSELY VEGETATED FIELD SOMEWHERE BEYOND THE FILM COMPLEX
Foster continues to run but he is beginning to slow down from exhaustion. The guards are not far behind. Foster has run out of cover.

INTERIOR : STUDIO OFFICE
Straker has pulled a gun from a desk drawer and stands close to Grant with it.

STRAKER
This is an acoustic gun.

GRANT
I have heard of them..... Oh, excuse the pun.

STRAKER
I am a desperate man, Miss Grant.

GRANT
Armed with a toy gun?

Straker points the gun close to Grant's ear.

STRAKER
If I place it against your ear and fire the sound will pierce your eardrum. I am also told that the brain suffers varying degrees of damage.

GRANT
Even if I believed that, I don't believe that you're a desperate man.

STRAKER
Believe it. Unless you sign a confession, somebody's going to die.

Grant suddenly looks concerned.

EXTERIOR : SANDY PIT
Foster is at the edge of an abandoned quarry. The the guards are gaining on him fast. Foster runs headlong down into the quarry and then frantically scrambles up the outer rim. It is a real struggle and he slides on the gravel. He is half-way down and his pursuers appear at the top of the rim. A guard stops, takes aim and sights Foster through the scope. He fires and Foster is shot. Foster slides down, unconscious or dead, and the guards race to retrieve his body.

INTERIOR : STUDIO OFFICE
Grant sits at Straker's desk. Straker stands behind her. There is a typed sheet of paper on the desk in front of her.

STRAKER
Just sign here.

Grant signs the affidavit. Straker, with document in hand, heads out of the office.

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE
Straker walks in, paper in hand. Freeman is waiting.

STRAKER
A signed affidavit. Get Henderson.

FREEMAN
It's too late. He's just called. Foster's been shot.

EXTERIOR DAY : SHADO CAR
driving up to IAC building

INTERIOR : OUTER OFFICE, HENDERSON'S OFFICE
Miss Scott is seated at her desk working. Straker walks in, subdued

STRAKER
I'd like to see him, Miss Scott.

SCOTT
I'll see if he's in.
(to intercom)
There's someone to see you, sir.

HENDERSON
(over intercom)
Send Straker right in.

SCOTT
He's in there.

STRAKER
Thank you.

INTERIOR : HENDERSON'S OFFICE
Straker enters the office. Henderson is seated at the desk.

HENDERSON
Straker! It must be my year. This is your second visit.

STRAKER
I'd like you to read this when you find time to be making up wise cracks.
Straker hands Henderson a slim file.
It includes a statement which absolutely clears Paul Foster.

HENDERSON
Statement?

STRAKER
From an industrial spy. A Miss Grant. She was after information at the studio. Our stuff was incidental.

Henderson reads it quickly then uses the intercom.

HENDERSON
Jackson.

Jackson enters from a side door.

STRAKER
You were wrong, Jackson. Paul Foster was guilty of one thing. He worked nights at home. He wrote those orders to Moonbase and Skydiver while a couple of cameras in the wall were taking pictures.

JACKSON
You can prove this?

STRAKER
Does it matter? I only hope it keeps you awake nights thinking about it.

Straker turns to leave

HENDERSON
Just a moment.
(stands and comes around desk.)

HENDERSON
You think I'm a pigheaded cretinous lout, don't you, Straker. Foster was shot with an anaesthetic bullet. Jackson's idea.

Straker manages a very slight smile to Jackson, the nearest he can get to expressing thanks.

HENDERSON
Er . . don't fall over yourself with gratitude.

Straker produces a very small tape recorder disguised as a pen. He replays the message he has just taped.

HENDERSON (on tape)
Just a moment. You think I'm a pigheaded cretinous lout, don't you...

Straker rewinds the pen-recorder again.

HENDERSON (on tape)
You think I'm a pigheaded cretinous lout, don't you...

He rewinds it yet again.

HENDERSON (on tape)
think I'm a pigheaded cretinous lout . .

and again

HENDERSON (on tape)
think I'm a pigheaded cretinous lout...

Straker gives a satisfied smile and tosses the pen to Henderson.

STRAKER
(grinning)
I like it... I like it.

Straker leaves and Jackson starts laughing.

INTERIOR : SOUND STAGE
The Agent and Diana are waiting as Foster walks up to them.

AGENT
It was very nice of you to ask us down here, Mr Foster.

FOSTER
Is it? I just wanted to give you this.

Foster pulls a slip of paper from an inner pocket of his jacket and hands it to the agent.

FOSTER (continued)
You did pay the $10,000 into my account, didn't you?

AGENT
Well, yes ... but no one can tell where it came from, you understand.

FOSTER
Sure. When you came down for the screen test I didn't know what you meant when you said 'we can help each other'. But now you're right, I do understand only too well.
(to Diana)
Get yourself a new agent, kid.

AGENT
Oh, come on, don't be like that.

FOSTER
Listen, you don't know how much that cheque nearly cost me. Now get out of here while you can still walk.

The agent skulks away with Diana close behind. Just then Carl Mason spots Foster.

MASON
Foster! Where the devil have you been, out sunning yourself on some beach?

FOSTER
Now, wait a minute...

MASON
Please, no excuses. Believe it or not, this is a film studio - it has one function, it's very simple, it's to make motion pictures. Alright? Let's go.

Foster starts to follow after the irate director and sees Straker standing near-by, watching. They give each other a knowing glance.


U.F.O. is the © and property of ITV Studios Global Entertainment and used for promotional purposes only.
Email:
Go to Main