THE SECRET SERVICE
"FIELD OF VISION"
By
Johcafra
FADE IN:
Ext. Parish church (Night)(Library)
Cut to:
Ext. CHURCH garden (NIGHT)
FATHER UNWIN peers into the eyepiece of a refractor telescope. SOUNDS of night insects or perhaps a bird.
FULL MOON AT NIGHT (LIBRARY)
UNWIN (O.C.)
From Heaven the Lord looks down on the earth.
Ext. CHURCH GaRDEN (NIGHT)
MRS. APPLEBY quietly approaches Unwin from his side...
MRS. APPLEBY
Father Unwin?
UNWIN
Yes, Mrs. Appleby?
MrS. APPLEBY
Will you be needing anything else?
Unwin straightens.
UnWIN
No, Mrs. Appleby, I too will soon call it a night.
MRS. APPLEBY
I have not seen you at the telescope for a long time.
UNWIN
(faces skyward)
Oh, what's above never fails to interest me. But who can search out what things are in Heaven? We should learn to appreciate the occasional reminder.
(faces Mrs. Appleby)
Do have a look. The moon is especially winsome tonight.
CLOSE on Mrs. Appleby as she approaches, then peers into the telescope eyepiece.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. LUNAR SURFACE
A desolate plain with few or no prominent features. SOUND of an approaching electrical whine.
ANOTHER ANGLE
"Alpha," a variation of the Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle with six wheels, moves not at a Martian crawl but a deliberate pace, gently kicking up "rooster-tails" of powdery lunar dust.
CLOSE on its "driver", at first glance an armature on which a puppet or marionette may be built but on closer inspection a near-skeletal but gadget-laden facsimile of a human with a binocular array at its "head". "He" is not Robert The Robot.
CUT TO:
EXT. EARTH OBSERVATORY M-44 (NIGHT)
Jodrell Bank, Goldstone or Woomera in design. Several office buildings with a radio array and very large dish antenna in the background. The main building has most of its windows lit from within.
EXT. EARTH OBSERVATORY M-44 (NIGHT) - ANOTHER ANGLE
A sign: "DEEP SPACE INSTITUTE - WORLD ASTRONOMICAL UNION - OBSERVATORY M-44"
INT. CONTROL ROOM
Computer mainframes and instrument banks line the walls. Two long instrument consoles with monitors and keyboards sit in its center, angled towards a wall screen.
A TECHNICIAN sits at one console. (Another stands in the background with the mainframes.) DOCTOR ESPY and MAJOR FERRIS stand behind the seated technician. All except Ferris wear white laboratory coats and identification badges. Ferris wears a military uniform.
TECHNICIAN
(studies console)
Alpha on course.
ANOTHER ANGLE
VIDEO DISPLAY (INSERT)
The technician watches a lit dot slowly following an overlay of a path between two points on a large-scale lunar map.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND FERRIS
Study the console...
FERRIS
Bridger does well.
EsPY
He's a test pilot. The fact that he isn't flying shouldn't make a difference.
FERRIS
What makes you think he isn't flying?
(looks up)
MEDIUM SHOT - TEST RIG
TONY BRIDGER sits in the test rig for a computer mediated "Virtual Reality" display system, wearing headphones and effectively blackened goggles, his arms and legs in braces, all thoroughly wired to O.C. equipment. In all an improvement upon Professor Sutherland's "Sword of Damocles".
Bridger wears a flight suit partly opened for leads patched into his chest. His right hand clutches a small joystick on the right arm of his cushioned chair. SOUND of an electrical motor as the chair gently bobs and swivels to display guided movement.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND FERRIS
Face the test rig.
FERRIS (CONT'D)
Still, I imagine he needs concentrate more than average.
EsPY
As well he should, for he may be pre-empted without warning.
FERRIS
All the better for the Interpolator.
Espy
And the better he does with Alpha on the moon the better Bravo will do after it lands there and links with them.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Technician
Approaching second drill site.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND FERRIS
Face the console.
Ext. Lunar surface
Alpha slows to a stop. SOUNDS of an electrical motor and muted machinery...
MEDIUM SHOT on its driver as it reveals a longer third arm with a drill head for its "hand". This arm reaches over Alpha's left front wheel.
CLOSE on the driver's "head" swerving to its left and downward.
CLOSE on the drill head penetrating the lunar surface.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
MEDIUM SHOT - TEST RIG
Bridger pantomimes Alpha's action, raises his encumbered and wired left arm...
CLOSE ON BRIDGER'S LEFT ARM (LIVE ACTION)
Bridger's similarly accoutered left hand pinches at air...
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
TECHNICIAN
Core sample extracted.
EXT. LUNAR SURFACE
MEDIUM SHOT on Alpha's driver placing a component of its third arm into a housing behind its "seat", then retracting this arm into its original position.
LONG SHOT as Alpha moves slowly OFF CAMERA.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND FERRIS
ESPY
He's gone farther this time. Three more extractions if we're lucky.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Technician
Hold on...
VIDEO DISPLAY (INSERT)
The lit dot strays from the overlay path.
Espy (O.C.)
Is he still on course?
TeCHNICIAN
No, and he's accelerating.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Technician (CONT'D)
(to himself)
Just like the last time.
Ext. LunAR SURFACE
Alpha speeds up, for all appearances a joyride, the rooster-tails higher, yet remaining in a straight and deliberate path AWAY FROM CAMERA.
Int. CONTROL ROOM
GROUP SHOT - ESPY, FERRIS AND TECHNICIAN
FERRIS
Has the Interpolator cut into the link?
EsPY
No.
(to technician)
Maintain the link. I want to see how long this new walkabout lasts.
VIDEO DISPLAY (INSERT)
The lit dot notably off-course and slowing.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
TeCHNICIAN
He's slowing down...
(beat)
He's stopping.
Ext. LunAR SURFACE
MEDIUM SHOT of Alpha as it slows and stops.
CLOSE-UP on the binocular array "head" as it turns upward and stops at an angle.
NEW EARTH FROM SPACE (LIBRARY)
INT. CONTROL ROOM
GROUP SHOT - ESPY, FERRIS AND TECHNICIAN
EsPY
Cut the link.
TECHNICIAN
Confirmed.
Espy
That hangs it.
(looks up)
Bridger...
MEDIUM SHOT - TEST RIG
Unmanned though not in disarray. The wires and braces are carefully laid aside, but the goggles and headphones are missing...
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
FERRIS
(into console microphone)
Security Alert, Level Three!
SOUND of an alarm.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY and TECHNICIAN
ESPY
(to technician)
Do you have a trace on Bridger?
TECHNICIAN
(studies console)
He's in the lift.
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
FERRIS
The roof.
(into console microphone)
Lieutenant Jacobs, head for the roof. Use the stairs, at the double!
EXT. BUILDING ROOF (NIGHT)
An access door slowly and quietly opens outdoors. LIEUTENANT JACOBS (in military uniform) appears in the doorway, a lit stairwell behind him, but he doesn't move.
ANOTHER ANGLE
Bridger stands near but not on the edge of the walled roof, his back turned towards us, the full moon in the background.
CLOSE-UP - BRIDGER
Unmoving, the goggles and headphones around his neck, his face rapt and lit by the light of the moon he stares at.
MAIN TITLES (INSERT)
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. BISHOP LONDON HQ (LIBRARY)
EPISODE TITLE (INSERT)
CUT TO:
INT. BISHOP'S OFFICE
Espy, Unwin and THE BISHOP are seated, the Bishop behind his desk and the rest facing him on the other side.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
Espy
I consider these walkabouts acts of sabotage.
Bishop
So you already make clear in your latest report. I am authorized to say that others at the appropriate levels feel that may be. After due consideration of your clearly stated project objectives and time-lines I have assigned...
ESPY
A cleric.
(faces Unwin)
I hope you plan for absolution.
UnWIN
(faces Bishop)
All may plan for that, Doctor.
BishOP
(clears throat)
You should find Father Unwin eminently suitable. Among his many fields of expertise is cryptography.
Espy
Indeed.
ANOTHER ANGLE - UNWIN
UnWIN
My superiors determined that I was better suited for creating codes than breaking them, and far better suited for breaking the codes that I myself had created. That made me indispensable.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
ESPY
Save perhaps for the computer programs, I very much doubt some secret code is involved.
UNWIN
Dear boy, a secret code is always involved. And some codes are best kept secret.
Bishop
And what does the Institute Security detail think of all this?
ESPY
(faces Bishop)
I haven't asked them. I had hoped you would.
BISHOP
But not quite yet?
ESPY
If that is left to me. I want one more test mission.
UNWIN
So you can watch them?
BISHOP
They are Army, in keeping with protocol.
ESPY
They maintain all mission logs and review all test data with our staff. I schedule all briefs and debriefs in which they most actively participate. If anyone knows, they would.
UNWIN
You are the project director.
ESPY
I get the distinct impression that is an honorary title.
BISHOP
Do they actively impede the project?
Espy
No, they do not. And I believe that is solely because I invented the Interpolator.
Unwin
(Unwinese)
The Interpolator?
Espy
In-terr-poh-lay-torr. A recorder, storage and playback device of Alpha's activity. If you will, a black box with a difference. It reconciles what it records and what is programmed into it, and fills the gap between command and target.
UNWIN
Fills the gap?
ESPY
It learns what it needs to do. It was designed to help compensate for time lag. Even with our orbital relay in place, the lag is merely a second and some to the moon, but that lag grows the farther we send our probes into space.
UNWIN
So for now you send a man.
(beat)
Or near enough.
Bishop
Seems to me you roll the dice in any event.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
Espy
(faces Bishop)
And that is why we need a test pilot.
Unwin
(faces Espy)
Does he roll the dice, or is he himself the dice?
Espy
(faces Unwin)
He is Alpha's instructor.
UnwIN
Until Alpha no longer needs him.
EspY
We would hope that in due course Alpha will take over.
Unwin
Take over only Alpha, I would hope.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
BishOP
I don't understand.
Espy
I think I do.
(faces Unwin)
Father, the more the pilot does the more the Interpolator learns, reconciles that with its programming, and decides to interact or intervene. The pilot should not notice when Alpha takes over because Alpha should do exactly what the pilot would do under the circumstances.
Unwin
But you will notice.
Espy
I would certainly hope so.
(beat)
Father, do you seriously suggest that Alpha could take on a mind of its own? That is impossible.
UNWIN
"Certum est quia impossibile est." It is certain because it is impossible.
Bishop
Doctor, you have convinced us that Alpha can be of two minds at the least. Why not replace the test pilot?
Espy
(faces Bishop)
I'm sorry, but we lack the luxury of dispensing with him or training another. The second probe Bravo is in lunar orbit and awaits our command to land nearby. We have a great deal invested in this project. We cannot afford to let it fail.
Unwin
Then why do you insist on keeping the test pilot who twice failed you?
EsPY
(faces Unwin)
We do not know for certain that he was the cause.
Bishop
And you feel the only road towards certainty is to again conduct a test mission and hope for a failure for which you can readily determine the cause.
Unwin
I can understand your concern for the welfare of the project. But I do not understand your lack of concern for the welfare of your test pilot. You understand that you put him at risk.
Espy
A risk that he signed up for.
Unwin
There is substantially more at risk than you can compensate him for.
Espy
A risk that no one, not even the test pilot, has explained to my satisfaction!
PAUSE on Unwin.
Espy (CONT'D)
(sighs)
Very well, Father. What would you suggest?
Unwin
(faces Bishop)
I will inform the Bishop of the need for a pastoral visit.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. UNWIN'S STUDY
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
Stands behind his desk, the Minimizer-book set before him.
Unwin
Matthew, I should have no difficulty getting you onto the Observatory grounds, though it may get quite crowded in the Control Room.
MEDIUM SHOT - MATTHEW
Stands before the wall-sized bookcase.
MATTHEW
I'll be fine, Father. Thanks to you, I've learned to keep out from underfoot.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
And until you hear from me I want you to shadow the test pilot Tony Bridger. I promise not to leave the grounds without you.
(looks down)
CLOSE ON MINIMIZER (LIVE ACTION)(LIBRARY)
LONG SHOT - MATTHEW (LIBRARY)
He shrinks...
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. CONTROL ROOM
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
An automated door slides open and they stand in the doorway. In unadorned clerical garb, Unwin carries both his briefcase in one hand and a doctor's valise in the other.
Espy
Here we are, Father. The nerve center, so to speak.
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND JACOBS
Face Espy and Unwin.
CLOSE-UP - ESPY
Espy (CONT'D)
Gentlemen, this is Father Unwin. Major Ferris, in charge of Security.
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
FERRIS
Father...
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
UNWIN
Oh dear, am I suspect already?
ESPY
(faces Unwin)
Your briefcase and valise were waived from inspection.
(faces Ferris and Jacobs)
Gentlemen, you well know what's in my briefcase. And I dare say what's in the briefcase of everyone else on my staff.
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND JACOBS
ESPY (O.C.) (CONT'D)
All you need to know concerning Father Unwin are his security rating and that he has his run of the Observatory.
FERRIS
So we are advised.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
Gentlemen, please, fear is not needed. What is needed is trust. Oh, and Major...
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
FERRIS
Yes?
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
Would you kindly place my valise in a secure spot, within easy reach should I call for it?
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND JACOBS
Ferris does not move. After a beat...
JACOBS
I'll take it, Father.
(reaches for valise)
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
UNWIN
Thank you, Lieutenant.
(faces Espy)
Doctor, shall we see the test pilot now?
ESPY
This way, Father.
They exit.
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND JACOBS
Silently look after Espy and Unwin...
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. EARTH OBSERVATORY M-44 GROUNDS (DAY)
LONG SHOT of a copy of Alpha that runs clockwise on a circular paved track, tethered to a Maypole-like pillar. It circles at a leisurely pace but its tether is slack, which means its path and pace are both purposive and programmed.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
Espy
Our third probe. We call it Charlie.
UNWIN
(beat)
I do hope you have grander things in store for him.
ESPY
Very much so. Right now Charlie is in Charge Active mode. We won't land or activate Bravo until we wring the kinks out of Alpha over a distance.
UNWIN
And with your test pilot who is much nearer.
ESPY
Indeed. And there he is. Tony!
MEDIUM SHOT - BRIDGER
In casual civilian garb, he sits on the hood of a jeep, reads paper or overlay film attached to a box with clipboard.
Bridger
(looks up)
Hullo, Doc.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
ESPY
Tony, I'd like you to meet Father Unwin.
CLOSE-UP - BRIDGER
Bridger
Getting the Chaplain involved, Doc?
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
Espy
We don't have a...
Unwin
I only observe, Tony. If you like, I conduct a survey. I've also been known to consult and to be consulted.
CLOSE-UP - BRIDGER
BRIDGER
At the rate we're going, Padre, we can use all the help we can get.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND UNWIN
ESPY
I need to check some readouts. Wait for me if you would.
(turns to exit)
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
I'm glad to meet you, Tony. I understand you've been the center of attention.
(bends down)
CLOSE ON BRIEFCASE NEAR JEEP REAR WHEEL (LIVE ACTION)
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
BRIDGER
(faces away)
Seriously, Padre, if it's a matter of my losing my nerve...
Unwin
Far be it from me to judge that, my son. You appear resolved to continue the test missions.
BRIDGER
I am. I want to.
(faces Unwin)
They tell me I have a clean bill of health. I go over the results with everyone else. What happened to Alpha hasn't been because of me.
(beat)
'least they tell me that too.
UNWIN
If your faith is not firm then you shall not be firm.
BRIDGER
Why shouldn't I be? All I see and feel when I'm in the test rig is what Alpha sees and feels.
UNWIN
And what do you hear?
Bridger
Hear? I can't very well hear what Alpha hears 'cause it's on the moon. The gadget-men make me hear a lorry, with gears yet.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
We see his "hearing aid"...
Bridger (O.C.) (CONT'D)
They work on other audio cues to tell me when things work or don't work.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
BRIDGER (CONT'D)
Sometimes they ask me what I like to hear. I know why they ask but you can bet I don't tell them.
UNWIN
But if Doctor Espy or anyone else needs intervene they merely talk to you, am I correct?
BrIDGER
Sure, over the headphones. As long as they don't sneak up behind me or fly out of the sun, I figure I'm in the clear.
Unwin
Stick-and-rudder man, are you?
Bridger
Padre, I can fly a lawnmower. But with Alpha, I'm only a test driver. Or a test miner, given all the prospecting they want me to do.
UnWIN
I see.
Bridger
Though truth to tell, I fancied your motorcar the moment I saw you park it.
Unwin turns around.
EXT. hangar (DAY)
Gabriel sits in front of a hangar with closed doors.
EXT. EARTH OBSERVATORY M-44 GROUNDS (DAY)
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UnWIN
You mean Gabriel?
(faces Bridger)
Tony, when we successfully conclude our mission you can test-drive him for as long as you like.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
BRIDGER
Our mission, Padre?
Unwin
(Unwinese)
Oh, do forgive me the slip of my errant tongue, I meant your mission, I am only here to offer assistance.
(normal)
In any event I plan to be nearby for your next test mission.
Bridger
Spot on, Padre. And I suppose my guardian angel could use a word on my behalf.
Unwin
Or perhaps a still small voice, Matthew.
BrIDGER
'pardon?
Unwin
Calm sea and prosperous voyage, my son.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. CHURCH GARDEN (NIGHT)
TWO-SHOT - UNWIN AND MATTHEW
Unwin at his telescope. A full-sized Matthew stands to his side.
UNWIN
I trust you did your share of shadowing, Matthew.
Matthew
I believe so, Father. I also got as much the lay of the land as I could.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
UNWIN
And what is your impression of Tony Bridger?
Matthew
I don't know many test pilots.
Unwin
Go on...
Matthew
I think he would be in the best position to sabotage a test mission.
Unwin
(faces Matthew)
I agree. And that is why I have two more tasks for you.
MATTHEW
Yes, Father?
UNWIN
First, I need you to identify the backup tape for the most recent readout from the Interpolator. I gather from my discussions with Doctor Espy and his staff there is only one.
CLOSE-UP - MATTHEW
Unwin (O.C.) (CONT'D)
And thanks in part to Doctor Espy I know when they will run the backup tomorrow.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
UNWIN (CONT'D)
But I don't need to copy or even borrow the tape. I need to know this only to confirm this activity to the Bishop. He promised to later ask for the backup tape in his official capacity.
Matthew
(chuckles)
That makes it easier.
Unwin
Then I may ask you to go on a night-ride, with precious little notice.
Matthew
(beat)
The moon, Father?
Unwin
Oh, no, my boy, quite nearby. And I might even let you take the wheel. But you must locate the keys. Do you follow me, Matthew?
Matthew
(beat)
I think so, Father.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. HANGAR (NIGHT)
LONG SHOT of the hangar.
INT. HANGAR
Well enough lit, storing utility and military vehicles...
...and Charlie, in front of which Espy sits, between them a larger-than-average device on a portable table that resembles a reel-to-reel tape recorder and is connected by leads to an access panel on the "chest" of Charlie's "driver".
CLOSE ON REEL-TO-REEL (LIVE ACTION)
The tape runs slowly and quietly.
CLOSE-UP - CHARLIE'S "HEAD"
Immobile...
CLOSE-UP - ESPY
Looks intently at Charlie...
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - FERRIS
In semi-darkness he just as quietly and intently observes this scene from behind a nearly closed door, though we should remain uncertain as to whether Espy truly is aware...
CLOSE ON REEL-TO-REEL (LIVE ACTION)
The tape stops, Espy's hand flicks a panel switch and a panel light turns red.
CLOSE-UP - ESPY
Espy
(looks up)
Done.
CLOSE ON CHARLIE'S ACCESS PANEL (LIVE ACTION)
Espy's hands disconnect the leads.
Dissolve to:
Int. Hangar
Same as our introduction but not as well lit.
MEDIUM SHOT - CHARLIE
Lights up in apparent activation.
CLOSE-UP - CHARLIE'S "HEAD"
SOUND of an electrical motor, Charlie's binocular head turns upward and at an angle EXACTLY as we last saw on Alpha.
Fade out:
Fade in:
Int. CONTROL ROOM
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
SOUNDS of computers, the technician stands at a workbench (a rolling chair behind him), holding a clipboard, facing the computer mainframes, most with variably spinning tape reels. More tapes, each in a shell-like housing, are arrayed on top of the workbench, but one shell at the end of the row is open and empty.
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
The automatic door opens to reveal Unwin, holding his briefcase. He quietly looks around, then faces the technician...
Unwin
Ahem!
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Looks up, faces Unwin.
TechNICIAN
Can I help you, Father?
TWO-SHOT - UNWIN AND TECHNICIAN
Espy
I had hoped to meet Doctor Espy here.
Technician
He should soon return.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
(Unwinese)
So very glad to hear that. Please don't let me disturb you any further. I'll be on my way. Do tell the good Doctor I will soon catch up with him.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Stands stock still and blinks precisely once.
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
Stands outside the doorway without his briefcase and faces the technician.
Unwin (CONT'D)
(Unwinese)
So long for now.
(turns to exit)
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Technician
(looks down)
He left his briefcase.
CLOSE ON BRIEFCASE ON FLOOR NEAR WORKBENCH
Technician (O.C.) (Cont'd)
Oh, well, I'm sure he'll also return.
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Looks up and faces workbench.
CLOSE ON WORKBENCH SURFACE (LIVE ACTION)
The technician sets the clipboard next to the housed tapes, then picks up one of the tapes.
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Removes a stationary reel from a mainframe. Turns around to face the workbench.
TECHNICIAN'S POV
The workbench chair is missing.
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Technician (CONT'D)
Hold on...
ANOTHER ANGLE
At the workbench, holding the tape, he looks up...
ANOTHER ANGLE - TEST RIG
The chair relocated next to the test rig.
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Holds the tape in one hand as he returns the chair to the workbench, looks to one side...
CLOSE ON WORKBENCH SURFACE (LIVE ACTION)
The empty tape shell is missing.
TECHNICIAN (O.C.) (CONT'D)
Hold on...
(looks up)
TECHNICIAN'S POV
All but one mainframe run their tapes at various speeds.
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
TECHNICIAN (CONT'D)
Where's the backup tape?
He sits down on a chair that's gone missing again. SOUND of CLATTER, then...
TECHNICIAN (O.C.) (CONT'D)
Oof!
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Sits on the floor, faces the test rig...
ANOTHER ANGLE - TEST RIG
The chair returned next to the test rig.
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Slowly rises and kneels, eye-level with the workbench top, holds up the tape still in his hand and looks at it...
TeCHNICIAN (CONT'D)
Of course.
(looks down)
Now where is the...
ANOTHER ANGLE
CLOSE ON WORKBENCH SURFACE (LIVE ACTION)
The empty tape shell returned to its original location.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
TECHNICIAN (CONT'D)
(blinks)
Of course.
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
At the open doorway.
Unwin
No sign of Doctor Espy.
(beat)
Goodness, are you alright, my son?
MEDIUM SHOT - TECHNICIAN
Still kneels...
TECHNICIAN
Thank you, Father, I still have my tape and most of my dignity.
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
Moves TOWARD CAMERA...
UNWIN
Let me help you.
TWO-SHOT - UNWIN AND TECHNICIAN
The technician draws himself back up to face Unwin at the workbench.
Technician
I thought I had lost something.
UNWIN
But now it is found.
TECHNICIAN
Yes, I believe so.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
Prodigal!
Dissolve to:
Ext. Lunar surface
Alpha on the move, essentially a repeat of the introduction.
Int. CONTROL ROOM
Manned as first seen.
GROUP SHOT - ESPY, FERRIS AND TECHNICIAN
At the console.
TECHNICIAN
Alpha on course.
Espy
So far so good.
TWO-SHOT - JACOBS AND UNWIN
To the side...
UNWIN
Any wagers, Lieutenant?
Jacobs
The major would have my...
(beat)
Sorry, Father.
Unwin
Quite alright, my boy.
CLOSE-UP - JACOBS
Jacobs
It's bad enough that Security is under suspicion for all this.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
Faces Jacobs, then looks up towards...
MEDIUM SHOT - TEST RIG
Bridger seated as before.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
(to himself)
Matthew?
MEDIUM SHOT - MATTHEW
We can only infer that he is Minimized and elsewhere in the Control Room. He holds a small box with a microphone and wiring that lead into an opened console panel.
Matthew
(whispers)
I'm ready, Father.
CLOSE ON MATTHEW'S HAND (LIVE ACTION)
Flicks a switch on his box, and a light turns on...
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
TECHNICIAN
(faces console)
Alpha off-course.
VIDEO DISPLAY (INSERT)
A different overlay that the lit dot strays from.
Technician (O.C.) (CONT'D)
And accelerating.
Ext. Lunar surface
A repeat of the latter part of our introduction to Alpha as it accelerates AWAY FROM CAMERA.
CLOSE-UP - TECHNICIAN
Technician
(faces console)
Now slowing down...
(beat)
And stopping.
Ext. hangar (DAY)
A fully enervated Charlie hurtles through the opened hangar door and into daylight.
ANOTHER ANGLE
Charlie moves onto and across the grounds and AWAY FROM CAMERA.
INT. CONTROL ROOM
GROUP SHOT - ESPY, FERRIS AND TECHNICIAN
SOUND of the alarm.
MEDIUM SHOT - FERRIS
FERRIS
(into console microphone)
Security Alert. Report status.
CLOSE-UP - ESPY
ESPY
(looks up)
Bridger's still here.
MEDIUM SHOT - TEST RIG
Bridger's hands are in his lap, and his head slumped onto his chest.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
UNWIN
And I believe you will find him quite removed from the present. I prescribe simple bed-rest. Do tend to him, won't you?
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
FERRIS
Charlie's gone missing.
Espy (O.C.)
What?
TWO-SHOT - JACOBS AND UNWIN
UNWIN
(faces Jacobs)
Lieutenant, is my valise at hand?
MEDIUM SHOT - FERRIS
Faces Unwin.
TWO-SHOT - JACOBS AND UNWIN
JACOBS
I placed it in the Security office safe.
Unwin
Would you kindly place it on Charlie while he's in transit?
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
FERRIS
Now see here, Father!
UNWIN
(faces Jacobs)
And under no circumstances is it to be opened.
ESPY
I suppose it's a jamming device.
Unwin
(faces Espy and Ferris)
So to speak. But it is critical that you do not cut the link.
Jacobs
If you can coax Charlie into a slow canter I'll try to keep the ball alive.
(faces Ferris)
Sir.
(turns to exit)
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND UNWIN
Unwin
I'll join you now, Major.
FERRIS
You'll--
Unwin
The thrill is in the chase and not the capture, wouldn't you agree, Major?
FERRIS
Father Unwin, you test me.
(turns to exit)
UNWIN
Test me, O Lord...
Dissolve to:
Ext. motorway (day)
SOUND of a speeding car, a private car speeds PAST CAMERA.
ANOTHER ANGLE
SOUND of an electrical motor Charlie appears at the top of an adjacent hillock, slides down it and onto the motorway, and proceeds at a constant speed in the wrong lane and AWAY FROM CAMERA.
ANOTHER ANGLE
SOUND of a higher-revving motor, a jeep speeds in the opposite lane TOWARDS US.
EXT. JACOBS' JEEP (dAy)
MEDIUM SHOT - JACOBS
Drives the jeep.
CLOSE ON JEEP PASSENGER SEAT (LIVE ACTION)
The doctor's valise.
EXT. MOTORWAY (DAY)
ANOTHER ANGLE
The motorway opposing lanes are near enough together so that Charlie PASSES CAMERA in the wrong lane, then the jeep does a U-turn at high speed across the central reservation and proceeds AWAY FROM CAMERA in the wrong lane.
JACOBS' POV
Catches up with Charlie, which stays in its lane...
ANOTHER ANGLE
The jeep tries to draw alongside the slower Charlie...
MEDIUM SHOT - JACOBS
Braces his steering wheel between his knees, reaches for and shovel-passes the doctor's valise...
JACOBS' POV
...into Charlie's core sample basket.
CLOSE-UP - CHARLIE'S "HEAD"
It swivels and faces Jacobs...
ANOTHER ANGLE
The road narrows and Charlie "hogs" it sufficiently to edge the jeep...
ANOTHER ANGLE
...off-road and into a ditch on the central reservation.
ANOTHER ANGLE
Charlie progresses AWAY FROM CAMERA, still in the wrong lane.
Int. staff car (day)
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND UNWIN
Ferris drives, Unwin in the passenger seat.
FERRIS
Yet another walkabout.
Unwin
More a runabout, I would say.
FERRIS
I hope your jamming device works.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
UNWIN
(faces Ferris)
Where is Lieutenant Jacobs?
FERRIS
I had the Security detail radio the police to find him.
EXT. MOTORWAY (DAY) - ANOTHER ANGLE
SOUND of an electrical motor, then silent, Charlie slows and stops. Ferris's staff car pulls alongside.
Ext. Motorway (Day) - another angle
SOUND of car doors opening and closing, another private car slows to a stop behind Charlie and the staff car.
INT. PRIVATE CAR (DAY)
Espy at the wheel.
Ext. Motorway (day) - espy's pov
Ferris and Unwin stand next to a stationary Charlie.
TWO-SHOT - FERRIS AND UNWIN
FERRIS
I'd like to see that jamming device, Father Unwin.
Unwin
So would I, Major. I do hope the Thermos liner hasn't shattered.
FERRIS
The Thermos liner?
Unwin
Earl Grey tea. I fear it will ruin the cucumbers.
FERRIS
What on Earth?
Unwin
Indeed, Major. And on the moon.
TWO-SHOT - ESPY AND FERRIS
Espy stands on Ferris' other side.
FERRIS
(beat)
I don't understand you, Father.
CLOSE-UP - ESPY
FERRIS (O.c.) (CONT'D)
There is your man.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
FERRIS (CONT'D)
That's what you're after, isn't it?
UNWIN
I can only agree. But he did not act alone.
FERRIS
How do you...
(beat)
I would have hoped this sufficient proof that Security was not at fault.
UNWIN
Your admitting that only convinces me that you are indeed at fault, or play an important role. You see, Major, I never accused Security, or for that matter anyone else.
Ferris faces Espy.
ESPY
Father Unwin knows, Major. And so help me, I did not tell him.
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
Faces Unwin.
CLOSE ON FERRIS'S GUN HAND (LIVE ACTION)
Points a pistol at Unwin. SOUND of a police siren distant, then getting louder.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
UNWIN
Do not help a guilty person by being a malicious witness. You at least have a choice. The life of a brave man without a choice depends entirely upon how you exercise yours.
PAUSE on Ferris.
PAUSE on Unwin.
Ext. MOTORWAY (DAY) - another angle
A police car pulls up alongside Espy's stationary car.
INT. POLICE CAR (DAY)
A disheveled Jacobs in the front passenger seat.
CLOSE-UP - FERRIS
After a beat, looks down.
CLOSE ON FERRIS'S GUN HAND (LIVE ACTION)
Holsters the pistol.
CLOSE-UP - UNWIN
A knowing smile?
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. MAIN BUILDING (DAY)
ANOTHER ANGLE
CLOSE on the window of another part of the building.
INT. MEDICAL WARD private ROOM (DAY) - BRIDGER AND UNWIN
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
Stands in the open doorway, briefcase in hand.
Unwin
How are you, Tony?
ANOTHER ANGLE
MEDIUM SHOT - BRIDGER
Sits up in bed, wired to medical equipment and connected to an intravenous drip.
Bridger
Look at me, Padre. I'm still linked.
MEDIUM SHOT - UNWIN
Approaches the foot of the bed.
Unwin
All for the better this time.
CLOSE ON BRIEFCASE NEAR FOOT OF BED (LIVE ACTION)
Unwin (O.C.) (CONT'D)
While you were linked to Alpha I had to believe you could hear and understand someone besides Doctor Espy.
Int. MEDICAL WARD private room (day)
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
Bridger
Eavesdropping on me, were you?
UnWIN
Oh, no, merely conducting my survey.
BRIDGER
Well, Padre, I distinctly heard someone, but it wasn't you.
ANOTHER ANGLE
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
Unwin sits next to the bed, faces Bridger.
Unwin
Whom did you hear?
BRIDGER
It was a man's voice. He spoke to me from outside my field of vision while I was linked. His voice was very faint but very clear.
(chuckles)
The jest of it is...
UNWIN
Yes, my son?
Bridger
I can't recall what he told me.
Unwin
I see.
(beat)
I can assure you it wasn't me. It couldn't have been Alpha. And I doubt it was your subconscious, for you were very nearly unconscious. I suppose it could only have been your guardian angel.
CLOSE ON BRIEFCASE NEAR FOOT OF BED (LIVE ACTION)
As it closes by itself...
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
Bridger
(did he hear something?)
Yes. I suppose it was.
(chuckles)
All the same...
(beat)
Thank you again, Padre.
Unwin
It's all in a life, my son. Having faith in what we cannot see is our greatest challenge. And what more effective way to test our faith than to suffer the temptation to believe only in what we see?
CLOSE-UP - BRIDGER
UNWIN (O.C.) (CONT'D)
Rest now. Your faith has saved you.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. COUNTRY LANE (NIGHT)(LIBRARY)
Gabriel drives PAST CAMERA.
INT. GABRIEL (NIGHT)
TWO-SHOT - MATTHEW AND UNWIN
Unwin at the wheel...
Unwin
Matthew, you are truly a herald of few words.
Matthew
For a moment I thought you'd wanted me to try to stop Charlie.
Unwin
And you did that, my son, merely by resorting to the power of suggestion while Tony was linked.
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
UNWIN (CONT'D)
You see, the more I learned about the Interpolator the more I thought it a splendid means to render its instructor susceptible. Perhaps that too was by design.
Matthew
I only told Tony to stop and rest awhile. I doubt anyone else had ever told him that.
Unwin
Indeed. But it was still a gamble. I had hoped our introduction to Tony would also help with the programming.
Matthew
And knowing that Bravo would not be linked, Doctor Espy input the last complete Interpolator readout into Charlie.
Unwin
He then placed Charlie in Stand-By mode and linked with Alpha. That compounded the time lag. It also helped ensure Charlie would display, shall we say residual motive, and certainly closer to home.
Matthew
You told them not to cut the link.
Unwin
That too was a gamble. I didn't know what would happen regardless.
Matthew
(beat)
But I still don't understand, Father. No one at the Institute was implicated in the sabotage.
Unwin
There was no need, Matthew. And who were we to call it sabotage?
MEDIUM SHOT - MATTHEW
UNWIN (O.C.) (CONT'D)
The Bishop was very pleased to receive personal assurances that the project would resume without any further incidents requiring his intervention.
TWO-SHOT - MATTHEW AND UNWIN
UNWIN (CONT'D)
We too did our part. We uncovered the plot that everyone suspected, and we did that in full view of the plotters.
MATTHEW
But, Father, there had to have been a reason.
Unwin
Ah, yes, Matthew, there must always be a reason. And then we learn it is truly not the least important. Very well, let's call it impetuosity in the name of Progress.
EXT. COUNTRY LANE (night) - another angle
A slightly waxing moon shines overhead.
Int. Gabriel (night)
ALTERNATING MEDIUM SHOT
Unwin
"The moon doth with delight look round her when the heavens are bare."
MATTHEW
(faces Unwin)
Another Psalm, Father?
Unwin
No, Matthew, Wordsworth.
(beat)
Still, we should never lose sight that each of us is fearfully, wonderfully made. Wonderful indeed are His works.
MEDIUM SHOT - MATTHEW
Faces windscreen, silent for a beat.
ALTERNATING CLOSE-UP
UNWIN (CONT'D)
But as long as we strive to emulate His works we cannot shirk our responsibility for them. As for you, my son, be content with your lot as a guardian angel in training.
Matthew
(beat)
Yes, Father.
TWO-SHOT - MATTHEW AND UNWIN
Unwin
Besides, on a moonlit night I doubt Gabriel would fancy driving home alone.
Matthew faces Unwin, chuckles, and Unwin joins with a graceful laugh.
EXT. COUNTRY LANE (NIGHT)(Library)
Gabriel drives AWAY FROM CAMERA.
Fade out:
The end
CAPTAIN SCARLET STORIES BY JOHCAFRA
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