The Hardy Boys / Nancy Drew Mysteries (1977) s01e12 Episode Script
The Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise
Tonight, Nancy Drew in The Mystery of the Ghostwriters' Cruise.
Mr.
Addams, you've been threatening to retire for sometime now.
What finally decided you to do it? Eh, there isn't a new twist anyway.
Are you telling your millions of readers from all over the world there will never be another Robert McCall, Inspector Le Grande, or Max Trapper book? Well, you're obviously not one of the millions, or you'd know that I killed off Trapper in Sunstroke.
That Le Grande retired after The Mystery of the Spider's Web, and that, uh, McCall is getting much too old to live on the beach and rescue strays.
I thought you said you were only going for a week.
We are.
You've got enough bags to sink this ship.
I'd like to ask you one last thing.
Is this cruise really for a rest, or to map out one last novel? A definitive work to crown a distinguished career? All of my work is definitive.
See, a novel reflects the conscious and subconscious fears and, uh, motivations of the author.
Sometimes to his surprise and realization.
Is it true that you dictate into three machines, have five or six novels going at once, and employ nine secretaries? The secretaries grew less as I grew older.
Lately, I've relied more on my niece Cathy to organize my thoughts.
That's not an easy task at the best of times.
I think that's, uh, as much of an old man as the public will stomach.
If you'll excuse me, please.
Well, I see you made it.
Cathy, good to see you.
Hi, Nancy.
George, good to see you.
Have a nice trip, John.
Shall do.
Take care of the girls.
I will.
Bye.
Thank you, Mr.
Drew.
Bye, Dad.
Bye, Nance.
Bye, Ned.
Be careful, Nancy.
I always am.
Well, then why are you always in some sort of danger? Just lucky, I guess.
See you later, George.
Bye-bye, Ned.
We'd better check in with the purser.
You know, something doesn't strike me right.
I'm worried about Nancy on this trip.
Will you stop worrying, Ned? They're going to have a wonderful time.
There we go.
Oh, I can't believe that we're really on our way.
Mr.
Addams? Yes.
I'm Capt.
Powers, captain of the ship.
I'd like to welcome you all aboard.
Thank you.
May I say it's a privilege to have you as our passengers.
Well, thank you, thank you.
This is my niece Cathy.
Nice to meet you.
Uh, Nancy Drew, George Fayne.
Delighted.
Are your accommodations satisfactory? Haven't seen them yet.
My first mate will show you to your cabin.
Perhaps you'd do me the honor of sharing my table at dinner this evening? Well, that's very kind of you.
Come this way, please.
Mrs.
Ferguson, your husband is in the main lounge.
Mrs.
Ferguson, your husband is in the main lounge.
Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
Am I right? How do you do? I am right.
Yeah.
Well, this is terrific.
Celebrities always brighten up a cruise.
I'm Tomkins, the entertainment director.
I'm sure you'll want a full list of all the swell activities and sports we have lined up for you.
Games, raffles The shuffleboard tournament begins at 3:00.
You won't wanna miss that.
There's volleyball in the morning at 7:00.
And of course, there's the popularity- I thought I joined this cruise to get a rest.
You have to join the fun, Mr.
Addams.
There's no point in going on a cruise if you're just going to relax.
Now, you are Nancy Drew.
This is George.
Hello.
George? My name is George.
It's nice to know we have so much in common.
Yes, it is.
Yes, indeed.
You have a certain quality about you.
There's a hidden depth.
I do? Oh, absolutely.
That personality just shines through.
What are you talking about? Oh, Mrs.
Rivers! Throws darts like a champ.
Now, the events will all be announced tonight over dinner in the lounge.
So, see you then.
Goodbye, George.
Goodbye, George.
Will the person report Well, well, well, looks like you've already scored a big success.
Very funny.
Mr.
Addams, there are your quarters.
I hope you will be comfortable.
Thank you.
Mr.
Addams? That's right.
My name's Peter Howard.
I represent a magazine syndicate in Australia and England who are rather eager to be first in line for your autobiography.
Who said I was writing one? Well, uh, let's see.
Uh, your publisher, your manager, your agent, and I spoke to the deli owner who delivers your lunches, he told me you'd already started on it.
I consider him to be the most reliable source.
If I do write one, it'll be in my head where no one can get at it.
Mr.
Addams, an autobiography of the greatest mystery writer of all time is worth copy in itself, but you've led, um, shall we say, a very colorful life.
I understand your stories were always based on the skeletons in some real closets, right? What's the name of the syndication you represent, Mr.
Howard? Oh, um, magazines, journals.
It's a million-dollar deal.
All I'm asking for is notes.
I'm not giving any more interviews I assure you all information would- to anyone.
End of sentence, Mr.
Howard.
It's a long cruise, Mr.
Addams.
I can be very persistent.
And I can be very rude.
It's a personality trait I carefully acquired over the years.
Well, in that case I'll see you at dinner.
I think I'll take a look around the ship.
Yeah, I'd like to go.
Nancy, want to come? I'll catch up with you.
Okay, see you around.
See you later, Nancy.
Oh, this is neat.
What are you looking at? Your scrapbook.
Scrapbook? I don't keep a scrapbook.
Where did it come from? "Castling to protect King.
"Two moves to checkmate.
"This will be your last cruise, Mr.
Addams.
You're going to die.
" Let me see that.
These are pictures and stories that go back a long time.
I don't even remember some of them.
Someone's been following my career very closely.
What could it mean? Well, I've often used chess terms as veiled threats in many of my stories.
Have you made any enemies who'd want to harm you? Well, one doesn't go through life like a battering ram without bruising some bystanders along the way.
I have enemies, but this is obviously the work of a crank.
Doesn't mean a thing.
Maybe it would to Inspector Le Grande or Max Trapper.
I often take a nap in the late morning.
You know, the body begins to betray the intellect.
Did you know that the brain is the last organ to die? The final bastion of the soul.
I'll wake you before dinner.
Would you leave one light on, please? I don't like to wake up in total darkness.
Nancy, you sure you're all right? Yes.
You're still awfully pale.
My first mate told me what happened.
I'm terribly sorry, Miss Drew.
I'm fine, really.
I don't understand.
We've never had trouble with these lamps before.
It could have been a loose wire.
My hands might have been damp.
I've had shocks before.
Not like this, you haven't.
Uh, what is it? Look at this mess, sir.
See, the problem's right here.
The lamp wiring has been bypassed and connected directly to a magnesium and- And black powder charge.
That's right.
That's exactly right.
How did both of you know that? I'm not sure.
It's lucky you're young and strong.
Suppose it had been me with my heart May I offer my sincere apologies.
And please don't hesitate to see the ship's doctor again if you're still feeling badly.
Thank you.
It's just like out of one of your novels.
I'm a big fan of yours, Mr.
Addams.
We've got them all in the library.
Matter of fact, I don't think there's a mystery printed I haven't read.
You must be quite an authority.
I may have to consult with you on this cruise.
Anything I can do to help.
There you go.
Are all of you saying that someone deliberately tampered with the wires in that lamp? It's a possibility.
One way or another, you saved my life, Nancy.
We're both very lucky.
Why don't you get your rest now? I'll see you at dinner.
Where did this come from? A fan.
Now look, don't you think I'm entitled to know what's going on? Someone has returned to haunt me.
Nancy, if you don't stop doing that, I'm really going to get seasick.
First the scrapbook, then the lamp wired like that.
A coincidence.
Coincidence is the accidental and remarkable occurrence of events or ideas at the same time suggesting, but lacking, a causal relationship.
I'm sorry I brought it up.
The coincidence is too great, George.
You really think someone's trying to kill Mr.
Addams? Or frighten him to death.
He does have a weak heart, you know.
Why? That's what we've got to find out.
We? You certainly are liberal with your plurals.
What would be the motive? Who'd have anything to gain from his death? Who would inherit his estate? Cathy.
Nancy, you're not saying that she- I'm not saying anything yet.
Shoot straight from the hip.
How do I look? Oh, knock 'em dead, George.
You've been reading too many John Addams novels.
Let's go.
I'm not quite ready yet.
I'll meet you there.
I'm as ready as I'll ever be.
I'll see you there.
Okay.
Excuse me.
Well, how's it going? Come and take a look, sir.
It's not too good.
Not too good.
I would say that's an understatement.
Anything near us on radar? Just a few fishing boats.
John.
Sir.
Call the radio room.
Have them connect all the maydays and alerts to the bridge.
Aye, sir.
This kind of fog could be a killer.
Hi.
Hi.
Hi.
Hello.
My apologies for being late.
We've hit some pretty dense fog.
May run into some rough weather, but there's nothing to worry about.
Let me worry.
I don't even like a deep tub.
Miss Drew, would you sit over here, please? Capt.
Powers, would it be possible for me to take a look at your passenger list? I'm sorry, Miss Drew, but that information is classified.
But, Captain I think your fears are groundless, Nancy.
No one wired that lamp deliberately.
You and I see mysteries in the most prosaic of circumstances.
We can't help ourselves.
Is this your first cruise, Mr.
Addams? Good evening, Captain.
Good evening, Tomkins.
I have the announcements ready.
The, uh, contestants are here.
Shall I start the get-acquainted dance right after cocktails? That'll be fine.
Very good.
Good evening, George.
Hi, George.
I've reserved my first dance with you.
Wonderful.
You dance beautifully.
Thank you.
How well do you know Mr.
Addams? Well, I've known his niece, Cathy, for a long time.
I'm not a stepping stone to him, Mr.
Howard.
Oh, I'll-I'll get what I'm after.
Don't worry your pretty little head about that.
What's your game plan? Intimidation.
Gently, of course.
Starting first with me? Mmm-hmm.
Ooh! Don't mind if I do.
Feeling any better now? Yeah.
Tell me, could there be a stowaway on this ship? No way.
This ship has the tightest security of any in the fleet.
You don't have to stay here with me, Cathy.
Oh, I enjoy it.
I haven't seen you this relaxed in years.
Cathy? Yes? You won't remember me.
My name is Adriane.
My brother dated you in school.
Tom Villers.
I think we did meet a couple of times.
Ouch! Was that your foot? It's okay, George.
I've got another one I could use.
Later, okay? Later.
I think he wanted to cut in on us, you know.
Me, too.
Are you here with someone? No, I'm on my own.
Well then please join us.
Thank you.
That's very kind.
This is my uncle, John Addams.
I know who you are, sir.
It's an honor.
Why, thank you.
Well, everybody seems to be enjoying themselves.
You know, George, you're really very attractive.
So are you, George.
In your own way.
Uh, ladies and gentlemen, it is time now to pick the contestants for the title, Miss Regency Line.
That's our own popularity contest and we have our first contestant right here with me, Miss George Fayne.
Let's give her a big hand.
Mr.
Addams.
Castling to protect King, two moves to checkmate.
This will be your last cruise, Mr.
Addams.
It's your move now.
Only I will be able to help you escape.
But you will play it my way.
Remember what happened to Trapper and Inspector Le Grande, and all the other good people you've wasted in your life.
You will have to pay for that now.
You're going to die.
You all right? Nancy, can you hear that? Over here, Mr.
Addams, Let's go.
I am waiting for you.
He may be luring us into a trap.
You're getting closer.
You'll know who I am soon enough.
There's no escape.
A tape recorder? This is just like the one Peter Howard carries.
But why would he use that? Maybe he thought while you're trying to find the voice, he'd sneak up behind you.
What are you doing here? I was looking for my uncle.
Did you hear the tape? Yes, I heard it.
Whoever did it made a very big mistake.
Come in.
Captain.
Oh, Miss Drew.
Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
I've got evidence now.
There are threats against Mr.
Addams' life recorded on this cassette.
I think, that's all the proof you'll need to let me see that passenger list.
Listen to this.
Well? But that's impossible.
We all heard it.
That's right.
There was- there were threats and laughter playing on this tape coming out of the fog.
Well, could somebody have erased it? Not before we got here.
I heard laughter on it just before I picked the tape up.
Well, there's nothing there now.
And perhaps there was nothing there to begin with.
Now, come on, is this some kind of a joke? This is no joke, Captain.
Sorry to have troubled you.
Come on, girls.
It makes no sense.
How could that tape have been erased? And why use a recorder in the first place if not to lure someone to an attack? We can't be sure it was Howard's cassette.
All those tape recorders look alike.
It's from your book.
The first one that featured Inspector Le Grande.
It took place aboard a cruise ship.
The hero, a journalist, received threatening notes in the form of chess moves.
That's right and he was nearly electrocuted by a lamp at the end of Chapter 6.
The fog, the tape recorder erased when played back.
Um, I don't remember what happens in the next chapter.
Neither do I.
Cathy, you know them all by heart.
I- I'm sorry.
I-I don't remember that one.
Do you remember the title of the book? No.
The Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise.
Mysteries.
Sunstroke, Carroll, The Spider's Web, Mystery of the Haunted Cruise.
Martin Carroll.
Addams, Singing Stupid.
Midnight Messenger.
Looks like it's the only one that isn't there.
Sorry if I frightened you.
I didn't even hear you.
It's a little dangerous to be walking around alone this late at night.
I heard the captain say that you believe that the lamp was wired deliberately.
Yes, I do.
Who would do a thing like that? I'm not sure.
If there's anything I can do to help, anything at all Listen, you be careful.
If there is some nut running around this ship I'll be careful.
Goodnight.
Goodnight.
The shuffleboard tournament will begin after lunch.
Please check with Mr.
Tomkins.
The shuffleboard tournament will begin after lunch.
Please check with Mr.
Tomkins.
Check.
You play chess very well.
So do you.
I'm supposed to.
I don't know anyone that can beat him.
Hey, down there.
Has anybody seen George? She disappeared with George Tomkins about two hours ago.
Wonder what she's up to? Good afternoon, Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
Hi, Tony.
Hi, Nancy.
You haven't had any more shocks lately? Oh, I'm trying to keep them down to a minimum.
It's not easy on this ship.
Purser, to the bridge.
Purser, to the bridge.
It's your move.
Check and mate.
There may be a way you can help me after all.
You said you were a fan of Mr.
Addams.
Read every one of his books.
Do you have The Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise? Sure do.
Could I borrow it? Just as soon as I am finished with this.
Thanks.
I knew I'd seen that book jacket before.
"The storyline of John Addams' hugely best-selling novel "Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise, "has been contested by Martin Carroll "a young playwright who claims that he and Addams had written the plot together.
" Martin Carroll.
That's over 30 years ago.
Well, he was a very talented young playwright, but he was erratic.
Ev-even paranoid.
I had to write the book without him.
He became very bitter, especially after he lost the suit.
How old would he be now? Oh, 50.
Could you recognize him? I don't think so.
I think we've found our mysterious passenger.
And he doesn't represent a magazine syndication.
Hi, Dad.
How are you? Nancy.
How are you enjoying the trip? It's certainly been the trip of a lifetime.
Dad, listen, I can't explain it all now but I want you to find out everything you can about a man named Martin Carroll.
Just a minute.
Martin Carroll.
He was involved in a lawsuit with John Addams.
His lawyers were Weyland and Greer.
It was back in 1947.
Weyland and Greer.
Okay.
I want you to find out where he is now.
I'll get right on it.
What's it all about? I'll explain later.
But I have reason to believe that Carroll's on the boat using the alias Peter Howard.
Okay, well, I'll get back to you as soon as I find anything out.
But be careful, Nancy.
I will.
Thanks, Dad.
Bye.
Nancy's in trouble? That's what we're going to find out.
Nancy, come on, I can't stand it anymore.
What happens? They land at the first island, that's when our would-be killer makes his final attempt on the hero.
Then we've got nothing to worry about until we hit land.
Come in.
Miss Drew, your father sent this cablegram to you.
He told the operator he was going to fly out and meet you on the island.
Thank you.
Martin Carroll died six months ago in a sanitarium.
I'm going to see Mr.
Addams.
Hey! What were you doing in Mr.
Addams' room? I just want to talk to you.
Come on! I know you're in here.
Oh, god! Help! Help! Oh! Help! Help! I can't hold on any longer.
Oh.
Oh.
Here, take my hand.
Come on, you can do it.
Nancy, go ahead.
I won't drop you.
Come on.
What happened? I was chasing after someone.
After someone? Coming out of Addams' stateroom.
Nobody passed me.
Maybe you just thought you saw someone.
Thanks.
This is Regency, 20 degrees off your starboard bow.
Identify yourself.
Over.
It's too big for a ship.
Then what is it? It can't be an iceberg.
Not in these waters.
Tell me, before the radio went off, did you hear any reports of an explosion, or an earthquake, or anything like that? Nothing like that, sir.
and closing, sir.
What is that coming at us, Captain? I've seen that before.
On my first ship when I was a cadet.
A solid mass just like that.
Building up higher and higher and coming right at us.
It's a tidal wave.
I'd say it's about and it's gonna smash right over us.
Start fastening everything down.
Tell the crew and get the passengers inside, off the decks.
I don't want them to know.
It'll cause a panic we can't control.
Aye, aye, Captain.
Ladies and gentlemen, as usual we have our lovely contestants do something for us.
But, George, I- I- but, George Now, George, what would you like to sing? I don't sing.
What do you mean, you don't sing? I don't know anyone who can't carry a tune.
George! I didn't know George could sing.
I don't think she knows.
Do you know It Doesn't Matter Anymore? Knock 'em dead, George.
Just kill 'em, huh? You'll be the first.
? There you go, baby, here am I? ? Well you left me here so I could sit and cry? ? Golly gee what have you done to me? ? Well, I guess it doesn't matter anymore? ? Do you remember baby last September? ? How you held me tight each and every night? ? Oh, baby, how you drove me crazy? ? But I guess it doesn't matter anymore? ? There's no use in me a-cryin'? ? I've done everything and now I'm sick of trying? ? I've thrown away my nights? Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please? The captain anticipates hitting some rough weather.
Now, there is absolutely no need to be alarmed.
But he would like you to put on your life jackets.
What are they doing? Some kind of drill? Looks like it's for real.
and put on the jacket that you will find stowed there.
The rest of you, please remain in this lounge, and we will provide you with jackets.
Please don't hesitate to ask any steward or officer, who will help you.
But please remain inside.
No one will be allowed on deck until the storm passes.
Thank you.
I've got another.
Just put this on.
George, meet me in the cabin! I said there isn't time.
Now put it on! There isn't time for what? You know what's happening, don't you? Well, it's nothing serious.
Nothing to worry about.
Nothing to worry about? Look at your face you've got Titanic written all over it.
Tell us what we're facing.
I can't.
Oh, George, come on.
There's a tidal wave.
A tidal wave? That's impossible.
It's coming right at us.
Put this on.
Nancy.
Nancy! We're assembling the passengers.
Any panic yet? I'm afraid it's starting.
Where did it come from? Doesn't matter now, does it? Captain, you've got to get out of here.
That wave could crush this bridge.
I will remain at my post, Number One.
See that the water-tight doors are shut.
Will you carry out my instructions? We've only got minutes left! Aye, aye, sir.
Mayday, this is Regency.
Position: longitude 75 degrees, eight minutes west.
Latitude 30 degrees, and closing, sir.
Where did you come from? and closing, sir.
Miss Drew, I told you no one's allowed up on deck.
It's a hoax! You don't understand.
You're the one who doesn't understand, Miss Drew.
Seaman, get Miss Drew inside and help her into a life jacket.
Come on, Nancy.
I've got to see the captain! If I have to insist on saving your life, that's the way it's gonna be.
You don't understand.
Come on! Mayday, Mayday, this is Regency.
Position: Longitude 75 degrees, eight minutes west.
Latitude 35 degrees, Repeat.
It's no use.
Grab a life jacket and get to a cabin.
I won't leave my post, sir.
That's a direct order.
Yes, sir.
You, too.
Out.
I said, clear the berth! Captain! Captain! I couldn't stop her! No one's allowed on the bridge.
Get below.
Fast! There's no tidal wave, Captain- Get below! It's too late.
It's gone.
But that's impossible! It's like it was never there.
Um, tell the passengers that we've, uh, managed to avoid the bad storm we were anticipating, and they can relax and return to the evening's entertainment.
Yes, sir.
I told you it was a hoax, Captain.
Miss Drew.
Miss Drew! I want to know what's happening on board this ship.
Now you knew there was no tidal wave.
What kind of a hoax or practical joke is going on that can wreck my radio and radar systems? I don't know.
I only know that someone on this ship is forcing Mr.
Addams to relive one of his own novels before killing him.
Do you know who this person is? Nancy, what happened? Don't you know? I wouldn't be asking if I knew.
There's no tidal wave.
Does that mean the danger's past? Not for your uncle.
I'm sorry about what happened.
I know you were trying to save me.
Yeah, what did happen? How did you know there wasn't a tidal wave? Hey, what's going on? I can't tell you why, or who, or even how it happened.
I can only tell you that somebody is trying to make John Addams live through one of his own books before he's killed.
I thought it might be a man named Martin Carroll.
But I was wrong.
Martin Carroll, the mystery writer? He was supposed to write a book with Addams.
But in the end, Mr.
Addams wrote the whole thing himself.
Oh, yeah, I remember the case.
But Carroll did write one mystery.
That was about a cruise ship, too.
Matter of fact, it was a rip-off of Addams' novel.
What was it called? The Mystery of the Haunted Cruise.
Oh, thank you very much.
" up onto the moonlit deck backed him against the railing.
"Below, the ocean churned.
"White blood spilled through the black waves.
He realized they would become his grave.
" "To my wife, Celeste and my daughter, Adriane.
" There's something really romantic about being out at sea.
Yeah, a cruise does something to people.
I've never been able to understand it.
But you look at that sea from the dock, you wouldn't think twice about it.
Look at it from the deck of a ship, on a cruise, and it's suddenly very romantic.
That's what I like about you, George, you're all heart.
Thank you.
Have you seen Mr.
Addams? Oh, he's taking a walk on the bow with Adriane.
She's the one who's doing all this.
Get the Captain right away! Doing what? Come on, George.
What's going on, George? You killed my father.
Your father.
I haven't seen him in 30 years.
He was a broken man, Mr.
Addams, in health and spirit.
I've lived under your shadow for years.
Your name was all I ever heard in our house.
My father was obsessed with you.
You robbed him of the success that might have changed his life.
And you wanted me to relive the events of that book? That's right.
Everything the way it was, except the ending.
That'd be the way it was in my father's book.
But the man was thrown overboard.
You couldn't possibly do that.
You're an old man and I'm very strong.
But to kill, could you do that? Say good-bye, Mr.
Addams, Max Trapper, Robert McCall, Inspector Le Grande.
You'll be taking a lot of lives with you.
No! Here, take her below.
Lock her in her cabin for now.
I, uh, I heard the last part of that.
It's hard to believe, I If you'll excuse me.
I don't think she would have gone through with it.
I'm just glad we'll never know.
So am I.
I think you're possibly the best detective I've ever worked with.
The note in the scrapbook was easy.
But, uh, I don't see how she could simulate that tidal wave.
Well, it wasn't difficult for a systems engineer like Adriane to alter a radar screen.
She erased the tape recording by remote control.
But what will happen to her? That all depends on what charges you press against her.
Perhaps they can give her psychiatric help.
Well, in that case, I won't press charges.
Oh, Mr.
Howard.
Mr.
Addams, the magazines I represent We'll talk about that autobiography later.
And you can count on that.
Thanks.
That's where you've been all this time.
You won! I can't believe it but I bet it was fixed.
What, jeopardize my career? I'm sure the decision of the judges was a very easy one to make.
And Mr.
Addams, I hope the rest of your trip will be a bit more peaceful.
I'll agree.
George, uh, you look That is Hiya, George.
Hi.
We've just enough time for once around the deck before we start the tennis tournament.
We still have to line up people for the opening night bingo contest.
Then of course Excuse us, ladies.
Then I think we'll be playing some more shuffleboard later on in the evening.
Mr.
Addams, you've been threatening to retire for sometime now.
What finally decided you to do it? Eh, there isn't a new twist anyway.
Are you telling your millions of readers from all over the world there will never be another Robert McCall, Inspector Le Grande, or Max Trapper book? Well, you're obviously not one of the millions, or you'd know that I killed off Trapper in Sunstroke.
That Le Grande retired after The Mystery of the Spider's Web, and that, uh, McCall is getting much too old to live on the beach and rescue strays.
I thought you said you were only going for a week.
We are.
You've got enough bags to sink this ship.
I'd like to ask you one last thing.
Is this cruise really for a rest, or to map out one last novel? A definitive work to crown a distinguished career? All of my work is definitive.
See, a novel reflects the conscious and subconscious fears and, uh, motivations of the author.
Sometimes to his surprise and realization.
Is it true that you dictate into three machines, have five or six novels going at once, and employ nine secretaries? The secretaries grew less as I grew older.
Lately, I've relied more on my niece Cathy to organize my thoughts.
That's not an easy task at the best of times.
I think that's, uh, as much of an old man as the public will stomach.
If you'll excuse me, please.
Well, I see you made it.
Cathy, good to see you.
Hi, Nancy.
George, good to see you.
Have a nice trip, John.
Shall do.
Take care of the girls.
I will.
Bye.
Thank you, Mr.
Drew.
Bye, Dad.
Bye, Nance.
Bye, Ned.
Be careful, Nancy.
I always am.
Well, then why are you always in some sort of danger? Just lucky, I guess.
See you later, George.
Bye-bye, Ned.
We'd better check in with the purser.
You know, something doesn't strike me right.
I'm worried about Nancy on this trip.
Will you stop worrying, Ned? They're going to have a wonderful time.
There we go.
Oh, I can't believe that we're really on our way.
Mr.
Addams? Yes.
I'm Capt.
Powers, captain of the ship.
I'd like to welcome you all aboard.
Thank you.
May I say it's a privilege to have you as our passengers.
Well, thank you, thank you.
This is my niece Cathy.
Nice to meet you.
Uh, Nancy Drew, George Fayne.
Delighted.
Are your accommodations satisfactory? Haven't seen them yet.
My first mate will show you to your cabin.
Perhaps you'd do me the honor of sharing my table at dinner this evening? Well, that's very kind of you.
Come this way, please.
Mrs.
Ferguson, your husband is in the main lounge.
Mrs.
Ferguson, your husband is in the main lounge.
Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
Am I right? How do you do? I am right.
Yeah.
Well, this is terrific.
Celebrities always brighten up a cruise.
I'm Tomkins, the entertainment director.
I'm sure you'll want a full list of all the swell activities and sports we have lined up for you.
Games, raffles The shuffleboard tournament begins at 3:00.
You won't wanna miss that.
There's volleyball in the morning at 7:00.
And of course, there's the popularity- I thought I joined this cruise to get a rest.
You have to join the fun, Mr.
Addams.
There's no point in going on a cruise if you're just going to relax.
Now, you are Nancy Drew.
This is George.
Hello.
George? My name is George.
It's nice to know we have so much in common.
Yes, it is.
Yes, indeed.
You have a certain quality about you.
There's a hidden depth.
I do? Oh, absolutely.
That personality just shines through.
What are you talking about? Oh, Mrs.
Rivers! Throws darts like a champ.
Now, the events will all be announced tonight over dinner in the lounge.
So, see you then.
Goodbye, George.
Goodbye, George.
Will the person report Well, well, well, looks like you've already scored a big success.
Very funny.
Mr.
Addams, there are your quarters.
I hope you will be comfortable.
Thank you.
Mr.
Addams? That's right.
My name's Peter Howard.
I represent a magazine syndicate in Australia and England who are rather eager to be first in line for your autobiography.
Who said I was writing one? Well, uh, let's see.
Uh, your publisher, your manager, your agent, and I spoke to the deli owner who delivers your lunches, he told me you'd already started on it.
I consider him to be the most reliable source.
If I do write one, it'll be in my head where no one can get at it.
Mr.
Addams, an autobiography of the greatest mystery writer of all time is worth copy in itself, but you've led, um, shall we say, a very colorful life.
I understand your stories were always based on the skeletons in some real closets, right? What's the name of the syndication you represent, Mr.
Howard? Oh, um, magazines, journals.
It's a million-dollar deal.
All I'm asking for is notes.
I'm not giving any more interviews I assure you all information would- to anyone.
End of sentence, Mr.
Howard.
It's a long cruise, Mr.
Addams.
I can be very persistent.
And I can be very rude.
It's a personality trait I carefully acquired over the years.
Well, in that case I'll see you at dinner.
I think I'll take a look around the ship.
Yeah, I'd like to go.
Nancy, want to come? I'll catch up with you.
Okay, see you around.
See you later, Nancy.
Oh, this is neat.
What are you looking at? Your scrapbook.
Scrapbook? I don't keep a scrapbook.
Where did it come from? "Castling to protect King.
"Two moves to checkmate.
"This will be your last cruise, Mr.
Addams.
You're going to die.
" Let me see that.
These are pictures and stories that go back a long time.
I don't even remember some of them.
Someone's been following my career very closely.
What could it mean? Well, I've often used chess terms as veiled threats in many of my stories.
Have you made any enemies who'd want to harm you? Well, one doesn't go through life like a battering ram without bruising some bystanders along the way.
I have enemies, but this is obviously the work of a crank.
Doesn't mean a thing.
Maybe it would to Inspector Le Grande or Max Trapper.
I often take a nap in the late morning.
You know, the body begins to betray the intellect.
Did you know that the brain is the last organ to die? The final bastion of the soul.
I'll wake you before dinner.
Would you leave one light on, please? I don't like to wake up in total darkness.
Nancy, you sure you're all right? Yes.
You're still awfully pale.
My first mate told me what happened.
I'm terribly sorry, Miss Drew.
I'm fine, really.
I don't understand.
We've never had trouble with these lamps before.
It could have been a loose wire.
My hands might have been damp.
I've had shocks before.
Not like this, you haven't.
Uh, what is it? Look at this mess, sir.
See, the problem's right here.
The lamp wiring has been bypassed and connected directly to a magnesium and- And black powder charge.
That's right.
That's exactly right.
How did both of you know that? I'm not sure.
It's lucky you're young and strong.
Suppose it had been me with my heart May I offer my sincere apologies.
And please don't hesitate to see the ship's doctor again if you're still feeling badly.
Thank you.
It's just like out of one of your novels.
I'm a big fan of yours, Mr.
Addams.
We've got them all in the library.
Matter of fact, I don't think there's a mystery printed I haven't read.
You must be quite an authority.
I may have to consult with you on this cruise.
Anything I can do to help.
There you go.
Are all of you saying that someone deliberately tampered with the wires in that lamp? It's a possibility.
One way or another, you saved my life, Nancy.
We're both very lucky.
Why don't you get your rest now? I'll see you at dinner.
Where did this come from? A fan.
Now look, don't you think I'm entitled to know what's going on? Someone has returned to haunt me.
Nancy, if you don't stop doing that, I'm really going to get seasick.
First the scrapbook, then the lamp wired like that.
A coincidence.
Coincidence is the accidental and remarkable occurrence of events or ideas at the same time suggesting, but lacking, a causal relationship.
I'm sorry I brought it up.
The coincidence is too great, George.
You really think someone's trying to kill Mr.
Addams? Or frighten him to death.
He does have a weak heart, you know.
Why? That's what we've got to find out.
We? You certainly are liberal with your plurals.
What would be the motive? Who'd have anything to gain from his death? Who would inherit his estate? Cathy.
Nancy, you're not saying that she- I'm not saying anything yet.
Shoot straight from the hip.
How do I look? Oh, knock 'em dead, George.
You've been reading too many John Addams novels.
Let's go.
I'm not quite ready yet.
I'll meet you there.
I'm as ready as I'll ever be.
I'll see you there.
Okay.
Excuse me.
Well, how's it going? Come and take a look, sir.
It's not too good.
Not too good.
I would say that's an understatement.
Anything near us on radar? Just a few fishing boats.
John.
Sir.
Call the radio room.
Have them connect all the maydays and alerts to the bridge.
Aye, sir.
This kind of fog could be a killer.
Hi.
Hi.
Hi.
Hello.
My apologies for being late.
We've hit some pretty dense fog.
May run into some rough weather, but there's nothing to worry about.
Let me worry.
I don't even like a deep tub.
Miss Drew, would you sit over here, please? Capt.
Powers, would it be possible for me to take a look at your passenger list? I'm sorry, Miss Drew, but that information is classified.
But, Captain I think your fears are groundless, Nancy.
No one wired that lamp deliberately.
You and I see mysteries in the most prosaic of circumstances.
We can't help ourselves.
Is this your first cruise, Mr.
Addams? Good evening, Captain.
Good evening, Tomkins.
I have the announcements ready.
The, uh, contestants are here.
Shall I start the get-acquainted dance right after cocktails? That'll be fine.
Very good.
Good evening, George.
Hi, George.
I've reserved my first dance with you.
Wonderful.
You dance beautifully.
Thank you.
How well do you know Mr.
Addams? Well, I've known his niece, Cathy, for a long time.
I'm not a stepping stone to him, Mr.
Howard.
Oh, I'll-I'll get what I'm after.
Don't worry your pretty little head about that.
What's your game plan? Intimidation.
Gently, of course.
Starting first with me? Mmm-hmm.
Ooh! Don't mind if I do.
Feeling any better now? Yeah.
Tell me, could there be a stowaway on this ship? No way.
This ship has the tightest security of any in the fleet.
You don't have to stay here with me, Cathy.
Oh, I enjoy it.
I haven't seen you this relaxed in years.
Cathy? Yes? You won't remember me.
My name is Adriane.
My brother dated you in school.
Tom Villers.
I think we did meet a couple of times.
Ouch! Was that your foot? It's okay, George.
I've got another one I could use.
Later, okay? Later.
I think he wanted to cut in on us, you know.
Me, too.
Are you here with someone? No, I'm on my own.
Well then please join us.
Thank you.
That's very kind.
This is my uncle, John Addams.
I know who you are, sir.
It's an honor.
Why, thank you.
Well, everybody seems to be enjoying themselves.
You know, George, you're really very attractive.
So are you, George.
In your own way.
Uh, ladies and gentlemen, it is time now to pick the contestants for the title, Miss Regency Line.
That's our own popularity contest and we have our first contestant right here with me, Miss George Fayne.
Let's give her a big hand.
Mr.
Addams.
Castling to protect King, two moves to checkmate.
This will be your last cruise, Mr.
Addams.
It's your move now.
Only I will be able to help you escape.
But you will play it my way.
Remember what happened to Trapper and Inspector Le Grande, and all the other good people you've wasted in your life.
You will have to pay for that now.
You're going to die.
You all right? Nancy, can you hear that? Over here, Mr.
Addams, Let's go.
I am waiting for you.
He may be luring us into a trap.
You're getting closer.
You'll know who I am soon enough.
There's no escape.
A tape recorder? This is just like the one Peter Howard carries.
But why would he use that? Maybe he thought while you're trying to find the voice, he'd sneak up behind you.
What are you doing here? I was looking for my uncle.
Did you hear the tape? Yes, I heard it.
Whoever did it made a very big mistake.
Come in.
Captain.
Oh, Miss Drew.
Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
I've got evidence now.
There are threats against Mr.
Addams' life recorded on this cassette.
I think, that's all the proof you'll need to let me see that passenger list.
Listen to this.
Well? But that's impossible.
We all heard it.
That's right.
There was- there were threats and laughter playing on this tape coming out of the fog.
Well, could somebody have erased it? Not before we got here.
I heard laughter on it just before I picked the tape up.
Well, there's nothing there now.
And perhaps there was nothing there to begin with.
Now, come on, is this some kind of a joke? This is no joke, Captain.
Sorry to have troubled you.
Come on, girls.
It makes no sense.
How could that tape have been erased? And why use a recorder in the first place if not to lure someone to an attack? We can't be sure it was Howard's cassette.
All those tape recorders look alike.
It's from your book.
The first one that featured Inspector Le Grande.
It took place aboard a cruise ship.
The hero, a journalist, received threatening notes in the form of chess moves.
That's right and he was nearly electrocuted by a lamp at the end of Chapter 6.
The fog, the tape recorder erased when played back.
Um, I don't remember what happens in the next chapter.
Neither do I.
Cathy, you know them all by heart.
I- I'm sorry.
I-I don't remember that one.
Do you remember the title of the book? No.
The Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise.
Mysteries.
Sunstroke, Carroll, The Spider's Web, Mystery of the Haunted Cruise.
Martin Carroll.
Addams, Singing Stupid.
Midnight Messenger.
Looks like it's the only one that isn't there.
Sorry if I frightened you.
I didn't even hear you.
It's a little dangerous to be walking around alone this late at night.
I heard the captain say that you believe that the lamp was wired deliberately.
Yes, I do.
Who would do a thing like that? I'm not sure.
If there's anything I can do to help, anything at all Listen, you be careful.
If there is some nut running around this ship I'll be careful.
Goodnight.
Goodnight.
The shuffleboard tournament will begin after lunch.
Please check with Mr.
Tomkins.
The shuffleboard tournament will begin after lunch.
Please check with Mr.
Tomkins.
Check.
You play chess very well.
So do you.
I'm supposed to.
I don't know anyone that can beat him.
Hey, down there.
Has anybody seen George? She disappeared with George Tomkins about two hours ago.
Wonder what she's up to? Good afternoon, Mr.
Addams, Miss Addams.
Hi, Tony.
Hi, Nancy.
You haven't had any more shocks lately? Oh, I'm trying to keep them down to a minimum.
It's not easy on this ship.
Purser, to the bridge.
Purser, to the bridge.
It's your move.
Check and mate.
There may be a way you can help me after all.
You said you were a fan of Mr.
Addams.
Read every one of his books.
Do you have The Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise? Sure do.
Could I borrow it? Just as soon as I am finished with this.
Thanks.
I knew I'd seen that book jacket before.
"The storyline of John Addams' hugely best-selling novel "Mystery of the Ghostwriter's Cruise, "has been contested by Martin Carroll "a young playwright who claims that he and Addams had written the plot together.
" Martin Carroll.
That's over 30 years ago.
Well, he was a very talented young playwright, but he was erratic.
Ev-even paranoid.
I had to write the book without him.
He became very bitter, especially after he lost the suit.
How old would he be now? Oh, 50.
Could you recognize him? I don't think so.
I think we've found our mysterious passenger.
And he doesn't represent a magazine syndication.
Hi, Dad.
How are you? Nancy.
How are you enjoying the trip? It's certainly been the trip of a lifetime.
Dad, listen, I can't explain it all now but I want you to find out everything you can about a man named Martin Carroll.
Just a minute.
Martin Carroll.
He was involved in a lawsuit with John Addams.
His lawyers were Weyland and Greer.
It was back in 1947.
Weyland and Greer.
Okay.
I want you to find out where he is now.
I'll get right on it.
What's it all about? I'll explain later.
But I have reason to believe that Carroll's on the boat using the alias Peter Howard.
Okay, well, I'll get back to you as soon as I find anything out.
But be careful, Nancy.
I will.
Thanks, Dad.
Bye.
Nancy's in trouble? That's what we're going to find out.
Nancy, come on, I can't stand it anymore.
What happens? They land at the first island, that's when our would-be killer makes his final attempt on the hero.
Then we've got nothing to worry about until we hit land.
Come in.
Miss Drew, your father sent this cablegram to you.
He told the operator he was going to fly out and meet you on the island.
Thank you.
Martin Carroll died six months ago in a sanitarium.
I'm going to see Mr.
Addams.
Hey! What were you doing in Mr.
Addams' room? I just want to talk to you.
Come on! I know you're in here.
Oh, god! Help! Help! Oh! Help! Help! I can't hold on any longer.
Oh.
Oh.
Here, take my hand.
Come on, you can do it.
Nancy, go ahead.
I won't drop you.
Come on.
What happened? I was chasing after someone.
After someone? Coming out of Addams' stateroom.
Nobody passed me.
Maybe you just thought you saw someone.
Thanks.
This is Regency, 20 degrees off your starboard bow.
Identify yourself.
Over.
It's too big for a ship.
Then what is it? It can't be an iceberg.
Not in these waters.
Tell me, before the radio went off, did you hear any reports of an explosion, or an earthquake, or anything like that? Nothing like that, sir.
and closing, sir.
What is that coming at us, Captain? I've seen that before.
On my first ship when I was a cadet.
A solid mass just like that.
Building up higher and higher and coming right at us.
It's a tidal wave.
I'd say it's about and it's gonna smash right over us.
Start fastening everything down.
Tell the crew and get the passengers inside, off the decks.
I don't want them to know.
It'll cause a panic we can't control.
Aye, aye, Captain.
Ladies and gentlemen, as usual we have our lovely contestants do something for us.
But, George, I- I- but, George Now, George, what would you like to sing? I don't sing.
What do you mean, you don't sing? I don't know anyone who can't carry a tune.
George! I didn't know George could sing.
I don't think she knows.
Do you know It Doesn't Matter Anymore? Knock 'em dead, George.
Just kill 'em, huh? You'll be the first.
? There you go, baby, here am I? ? Well you left me here so I could sit and cry? ? Golly gee what have you done to me? ? Well, I guess it doesn't matter anymore? ? Do you remember baby last September? ? How you held me tight each and every night? ? Oh, baby, how you drove me crazy? ? But I guess it doesn't matter anymore? ? There's no use in me a-cryin'? ? I've done everything and now I'm sick of trying? ? I've thrown away my nights? Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please? The captain anticipates hitting some rough weather.
Now, there is absolutely no need to be alarmed.
But he would like you to put on your life jackets.
What are they doing? Some kind of drill? Looks like it's for real.
and put on the jacket that you will find stowed there.
The rest of you, please remain in this lounge, and we will provide you with jackets.
Please don't hesitate to ask any steward or officer, who will help you.
But please remain inside.
No one will be allowed on deck until the storm passes.
Thank you.
I've got another.
Just put this on.
George, meet me in the cabin! I said there isn't time.
Now put it on! There isn't time for what? You know what's happening, don't you? Well, it's nothing serious.
Nothing to worry about.
Nothing to worry about? Look at your face you've got Titanic written all over it.
Tell us what we're facing.
I can't.
Oh, George, come on.
There's a tidal wave.
A tidal wave? That's impossible.
It's coming right at us.
Put this on.
Nancy.
Nancy! We're assembling the passengers.
Any panic yet? I'm afraid it's starting.
Where did it come from? Doesn't matter now, does it? Captain, you've got to get out of here.
That wave could crush this bridge.
I will remain at my post, Number One.
See that the water-tight doors are shut.
Will you carry out my instructions? We've only got minutes left! Aye, aye, sir.
Mayday, this is Regency.
Position: longitude 75 degrees, eight minutes west.
Latitude 30 degrees, and closing, sir.
Where did you come from? and closing, sir.
Miss Drew, I told you no one's allowed up on deck.
It's a hoax! You don't understand.
You're the one who doesn't understand, Miss Drew.
Seaman, get Miss Drew inside and help her into a life jacket.
Come on, Nancy.
I've got to see the captain! If I have to insist on saving your life, that's the way it's gonna be.
You don't understand.
Come on! Mayday, Mayday, this is Regency.
Position: Longitude 75 degrees, eight minutes west.
Latitude 35 degrees, Repeat.
It's no use.
Grab a life jacket and get to a cabin.
I won't leave my post, sir.
That's a direct order.
Yes, sir.
You, too.
Out.
I said, clear the berth! Captain! Captain! I couldn't stop her! No one's allowed on the bridge.
Get below.
Fast! There's no tidal wave, Captain- Get below! It's too late.
It's gone.
But that's impossible! It's like it was never there.
Um, tell the passengers that we've, uh, managed to avoid the bad storm we were anticipating, and they can relax and return to the evening's entertainment.
Yes, sir.
I told you it was a hoax, Captain.
Miss Drew.
Miss Drew! I want to know what's happening on board this ship.
Now you knew there was no tidal wave.
What kind of a hoax or practical joke is going on that can wreck my radio and radar systems? I don't know.
I only know that someone on this ship is forcing Mr.
Addams to relive one of his own novels before killing him.
Do you know who this person is? Nancy, what happened? Don't you know? I wouldn't be asking if I knew.
There's no tidal wave.
Does that mean the danger's past? Not for your uncle.
I'm sorry about what happened.
I know you were trying to save me.
Yeah, what did happen? How did you know there wasn't a tidal wave? Hey, what's going on? I can't tell you why, or who, or even how it happened.
I can only tell you that somebody is trying to make John Addams live through one of his own books before he's killed.
I thought it might be a man named Martin Carroll.
But I was wrong.
Martin Carroll, the mystery writer? He was supposed to write a book with Addams.
But in the end, Mr.
Addams wrote the whole thing himself.
Oh, yeah, I remember the case.
But Carroll did write one mystery.
That was about a cruise ship, too.
Matter of fact, it was a rip-off of Addams' novel.
What was it called? The Mystery of the Haunted Cruise.
Oh, thank you very much.
" up onto the moonlit deck backed him against the railing.
"Below, the ocean churned.
"White blood spilled through the black waves.
He realized they would become his grave.
" "To my wife, Celeste and my daughter, Adriane.
" There's something really romantic about being out at sea.
Yeah, a cruise does something to people.
I've never been able to understand it.
But you look at that sea from the dock, you wouldn't think twice about it.
Look at it from the deck of a ship, on a cruise, and it's suddenly very romantic.
That's what I like about you, George, you're all heart.
Thank you.
Have you seen Mr.
Addams? Oh, he's taking a walk on the bow with Adriane.
She's the one who's doing all this.
Get the Captain right away! Doing what? Come on, George.
What's going on, George? You killed my father.
Your father.
I haven't seen him in 30 years.
He was a broken man, Mr.
Addams, in health and spirit.
I've lived under your shadow for years.
Your name was all I ever heard in our house.
My father was obsessed with you.
You robbed him of the success that might have changed his life.
And you wanted me to relive the events of that book? That's right.
Everything the way it was, except the ending.
That'd be the way it was in my father's book.
But the man was thrown overboard.
You couldn't possibly do that.
You're an old man and I'm very strong.
But to kill, could you do that? Say good-bye, Mr.
Addams, Max Trapper, Robert McCall, Inspector Le Grande.
You'll be taking a lot of lives with you.
No! Here, take her below.
Lock her in her cabin for now.
I, uh, I heard the last part of that.
It's hard to believe, I If you'll excuse me.
I don't think she would have gone through with it.
I'm just glad we'll never know.
So am I.
I think you're possibly the best detective I've ever worked with.
The note in the scrapbook was easy.
But, uh, I don't see how she could simulate that tidal wave.
Well, it wasn't difficult for a systems engineer like Adriane to alter a radar screen.
She erased the tape recording by remote control.
But what will happen to her? That all depends on what charges you press against her.
Perhaps they can give her psychiatric help.
Well, in that case, I won't press charges.
Oh, Mr.
Howard.
Mr.
Addams, the magazines I represent We'll talk about that autobiography later.
And you can count on that.
Thanks.
That's where you've been all this time.
You won! I can't believe it but I bet it was fixed.
What, jeopardize my career? I'm sure the decision of the judges was a very easy one to make.
And Mr.
Addams, I hope the rest of your trip will be a bit more peaceful.
I'll agree.
George, uh, you look That is Hiya, George.
Hi.
We've just enough time for once around the deck before we start the tennis tournament.
We still have to line up people for the opening night bingo contest.
Then of course Excuse us, ladies.
Then I think we'll be playing some more shuffleboard later on in the evening.