Hetty Wainthropp Investigates (1996) s03e06 Episode Script
Pursuit by Proxy
See sense, Ray.
I want another month.
You can't trade one more day, let alone a month.
You heard what the man said.
It's illegal.
Are you going to sign it or not? I haven't got all day.
I'll make it as painless as possible.
Excuse me.
Excuse me.
Is the shop open? No it's closed, for good.
For good? Afraid so.
I'm waiting for some furniture.
Sorry.
But I've paid for it.
Ring my office.
They'll tell you about the creditors meeting.
It's me.
Pack a case.
Just the person I've been waiting for.
Oh, a lot overdue, are they? Nothing to do with books, Mrs.
Wainthropp.
Paintings.
What paintings? A while back, Mr.
Wainthropp said he might be interested in a job if a suitable opportunity came up.
Oh, he did, did he? I said I'd look out for one on the council's list of vacancies, and I thought this might be just the thing.
Gallery attendant.
In the art gallery above the museum.
But Mr.
Wainthropp knows nothing about art.
I think they're looking for a security guard as much as anything.
And he'll be told what he needed to know A bit of swatting, perhaps? [Chuckles.]
Well, I'm sure he'd be very grateful if he was here, Oh, no.
Very much in the pink.
Pinker than pink, probably.
He's in Australia.
Lucky man.
Hmm.
More than you'd guess.
His brother won a return ticket in a gardening competition and gave it to him.
Really? That's wonderful.
Well, we've got family out there and his brother's terrified of flying, so, off Robert's gone.
Leaving you to run his errands.
Exactly.
Shame.
That'll be 90p, please.
Robert told me the agency was going great guns, but he he didn't tell me Hetty was famous.
Why, it's only the local rag, Mr.
Wainthropp.
It's not every day we hit the headlines.
No, but look.
We'd much rather stay out of the public eye, in fact.
Oh, I get it Incognito, covert operation, all that.
It's very interesting.
[Door opens.]
Oh, she's here now.
Geoffrey? Hello.
Whose is this? Mr.
Wainthropp.
What? Your brother-in-law.
Frank? Frank? Hello, Hetty.
Geoffrey: I'll be upstairs.
Whatever are you doing here? Well, didn't Robert tell you I was coming? No.
Oh, well, he probably didn't want you to think he was forcing me.
What about? Leaving you to go jetting off.
He made me promise I'd pop in and see if you're all right.
Pop in? All the way from weston-super-mare? Well, more like a detour, really, on me way to Peggy's.
Ah.
She told me how good you were over young Tommy's little problem.
A call is the least I could do.
Well, it's very nice to see you anyway.
[Laughs.]
But Robert shouldn't have put you out.
Oh, it's my pleasure, Hetty.
In fact, it's more like I'm putting you out.
Oh? Yes, I got me dates mixed up, Peggy's got the decorators in, so there's no room for me there.
I didn't mind Robert going.
It was a chance in a million.
But he said nothing about doing b and b for his brother in return.
It was his ticket.
Yes, of course it was, Geoffrey.
And I don't mind sleeping in the put-you-up for a night or two.
Good lad.
He did seem genuinely interested in the agency.
Very impressed by the cuttings.
Oh, yes? [Telephone ringing.]
What now? Frank: I'll get it.
Oh, hello.
Hello.
Is Mrs.
Wainthropp at home? Yeah, come in.
I'm her brother-in-law Frank.
Pleased to meet you.
I'm dora James from down the road.
Well, go through, dora.
Go on, go through.
Hetty: Hello, dora.
Hetty.
Come in and sit down.
Tea or smelling salts? You look all of a-tremble.
Tea would be lovely, thank you.
Frank: I'll put the kettle on, will I? I don't want to interrupt anything, Hetty.
You're not.
Look, it's just a bit of advice.
Now, take your time.
I have a window, as they say.
I've done a really stupid thing.
Go on.
I forked out £400 for some kitchen furniture.
So what's happened? I paid the shop upfront, Hetty, and now it's gone bust.
Oh, no.
I've been sent notice of a creditors meeting by an accountant.
What accountant? The fellow dealing with it.
That would be the liquidator.
That's it liquidator.
He didn't seem very hopeful.
No, they never are.
You think I've lost the money? I suppose you'll have to go to this meeting to find out.
The problem is, it's the same day as our Barry's degree ceremony, and I can't miss that, can I? Course not, no.
It's a big favor, Hetty, but they say I can send a substitute.
A proxy, they call it.
Are you asking me? Yeah.
You're the only one I know with enough gumption to ask about my money.
Thank you.
Dear, oh, dear, oh, dear.
Well, Robert always did have his own way of doing things.
You're not changing his figures? Ho ho, I'm leaving his system exactly as it is.
I'm just setting out the accounts as they should be.
He asked you to do that, did he? He asked me to check things, yes.
You see, I've had much more experience of business than our Robert.
Oh.
I shall be coming to your car loan in a moment.
Man: And having considered the advice, the directors concluded that 4 more proceedings for winding up should be started.
On the basis of the statement before you, it is unlikely that surplus funds will be available for unsecured creditors.
I would like now to invite questions from the floor.
Paul croft, wood works international.
Isn't it true that the company was still ordering stock, long after it became obvious that it was bust? Nothing was obvious, Mr.
croft.
The hope was that trading would improve.
And you were happy to hope with our money? All business is a risk.
Yes, and a lot of it's crooked.
Wild accusations won't help.
Let's just keep to the facts.
Yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp, standing in for a neighbor who paid cash on the nail for furniture she hasn't had.
I want to know why she can't have items out of the showroom instead.
They're not exactly what she wants, but it'd be better than nothing.
I'm afraid that isn't how things are done.
All of the assets have to be sold to satisfy the charge holder.
Oh? What's that? He means the bank.
It's the usual stitch-up.
So this is more or less an interest-free loan.
Is that what you said? Yes.
A perk.
Well, I am a director, Mr.
Wainthropp.
Yes, so I understand, but this is no way to teach you the realities of life, is it? [Telephone ringing.]
I hope you're going to declare it as a benefit in kind.
Wainthropp detective agency.
G'day to you, too, Mr.
Wainthropp.
Yeah, I'm very well, thanks.
How are you? No, no, I can hear you as clear as anything.
[Whispering.]
It's Mr.
Wainthropp.
No, she's out.
Your brother's here, though.
Frank, yes.
Oh, he stopped by to check we're coping while you were away, like you asked him to.
Hey, let me say hello.
Uh, he's here now.
Hello there, cobber.
Brian Powell, pyecroft print.
Just one question.
Why isn't Ray lever here to face us? I understand Mr.
lever is unwell.
Really? So Mrs.
lever knows where he is, does she? Where? Not exactly, no.
So he's scampered, then, has he? [Laughter.]
I don't keep tabs on him.
I'm his ex-wife, you know.
Yes, you made sure you got out in time.
So where is he? Mr.
lever has been under a lot of strain lately and decided to take a break.
Make a break, you mean? Now, don't tell me he's gone with nothing in his pocket.
There's no evidence that assets have gone missing, Mr.
Powell.
Well I'm suggesting it's your job to get hold of him and find out.
To get hold of him? I propose a liquidation committee is formed to hire someone to find him.
[Several people talking at once.]
The cost of an enquiry agent would reduce funds by at least £2,000 a week.
So what? It's all going to the bank anyway.
My job is to protect what money there is, not make matters worse.
What about protecting us? We made nothing out of this.
If I may change hats midstream Man: Yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp of the Wainthropp detective agency.
You may have seen us in the yellow pages.
We offer a first-rate service at a fraction of the price you've quoted.
I feel a bit guilty.
We pick up a job and dora loses her money.
It's always the little people who suffer.
If we're successful, she might get something back.
Yes.
Positive thinking, Geoffrey.
Thank you.
You really think lever's run off with the company cash? Some of the creditors seem convinced.
We've got to find him first.
Where do we start? His last known address.
Have the car warmed up for 8:30 in the morning.
Right.
It's a shame you missed Mr.
Wainthropp's phone call.
Ah.
[Chuckles.]
He'll try again.
Just so long as I know he's in one piece.
He he seemed a bit surprised that his brother was here.
[Chuckles.]
Robert probably said something off the cuff and Frank's taken it on himself to be big brother.
What was he up to this morning? Polishing the accounts.
Right.
Seemed more like hoovering to me.
[Chuckles.]
Put you through the dust bag, did he? Hmm.
Oh, well.
As soon as he gets together with his old cronies rounded about, he'll lose interest in us.
I'm not so sure.
Why is that? I think I've whetted his appetite with our newspaper cuttings.
I can't be certain, but I'd say he's angling to stay a bit longer than a couple of days.
What's up? There's a knocking sound in the steering.
I haven't got time now.
Well, it's dead worrying.
Go on, then.
Get in.
How do you reckon? Serious? Golf ball.
Amazing.
That's the problem? Yeah.
Amazing.
You've said.
Amazing.
Ha ha.
I'm not sure if you're stupid or just daft.
Len Harris has gone abroad, bill woods died last year, and Donald Walker has moved to somerset.
So you didn't meet up with anybody? Harry hoggs has gone potty and didn't know me from Adam.
Oh, dear.
Well, if Donald Walker's in your part of the world, you might be able to meet up there.
Well, the thing is, since Peggy and Malcolm have moved back up north, I was thinking of coming back myself.
Oh, really? Yeah, not too close, mind.
Just near enough.
Like where? Well, somewhere around here would be ideal.
But I thought you were still doing a bit of business back home, Frank.
No, no.
Nothing much.
Course, I don't like to be idle.
I shall be looking for something.
A job, you mean? Well, you know me, Hetty.
I like to keep meself busy.
So, if you have any thoughts Well, yes, Frank.
As a matter of fact, I have.
What if he's there? We'll tell him we're looking for your lost cat, Geoffrey.
Doesn't exactly shout money, does it? Nothing very notable, I'm afraid, but bequeathed by local patrons, so an important record of their time in the town's history.
I was in short trousers last time I was in here.
Yes, well, I'm sure we've given it a lick of paint and cleaned the odd canvas since then.
Yes.
We like our attendants to be able to answer questions from visitors about the paintings.
Yes, so I understand, yes.
Nothing in too much depth.
Security is our prime consideration.
Security.
Of course.
Discreet but watchful.
While having a nose for trouble.
Yes, I suppose so.
Any joy your side? The neighbors haven't seen him for days.
Any of them know where he might have gone? Nobody knows him that well.
Just someone they used to say hello to.
How about you? It's the same story.
There's a caretaker who says we'll have to talk to the landlord to get into the flat.
We'll have to see what Mr.
dickson can do for us about that.
What now? We need to find out what sort of animal we're hunting, Geoffrey.
We better go and see the one who should know.
Good morning, Mrs.
lever.
Who's this? Mr.
Shawcross.
My business partner.
Come in.
Thank you.
As I said on the phone, I'm due out at half past.
In here, please.
I told the liquidator I couldn't help, but he said I had to play along.
So, what do you want? We need background, Mrs.
lever.
Something that might give a clue to your husband's whereabouts.
Such as? Well, what sort of a man is he? The failed sort.
What about friends? Favorite haunts? I divorced Ray two years ago.
I haven't any idea what he's been doing or who he sees.
But you're a co-director of the company.
On the letterhead.
But I've had no real contact with the business since the divorce.
This was your married home? Yes.
Very nice.
Oh, let me get something clear.
It wasn't my divorce settlement that caused the business to go under.
I didn't say it was.
What I got, I earned.
I lived in hope of turning Ray into a businessman, but he was clueless.
Some say I pushed him too hard.
When I wasn't pushing, he was sliding back.
He relied on me from day one.
In fact, the divorce could have been the reason why the firm went under.
Because I walked away? You think I should have stayed married for the sake of your neighbor's kitchen suite? Do you know where he might have gone? To hell, probably.
Told him to go there often enough.
You're not worried, then, for his state of mind, his well being? Why is he writing? I'm just taking notes, Mrs.
lever.
If you're saying he might do something to himself, forget it.
He's not the type.
You know the type.
Oh, I know Ray.
He's out there somewhere, lying low.
Living on what? No idea.
He isn't sitting on a crock of gold, if that's what you're hoping.
If he hasn't taken any money, why would he bother to disappear? He's done what he always does Left me to face the music.
Do you have a photograph of him? I don't know how recent.
May I borrow it? Keep it.
Now, if you don't mind, I have to be somewhere.
You didn't say what Mr.
lever's original trade was.
He was a pattern maker, a joiner.
Told you it wouldn't be much help.
Thank you anyway.
I want to draw a line under my life with Ray, you understand? I don't want to see you here again.
Now we know where he is.
Where? As far away from her as possible.
Suppose the levers got divorced as a way of getting the assets out of the company? You mean they could still be together, after what she said about him? Never.
Well, whatever.
Mrs.
lever is certainly well set up.
Maybe she did used to roll up her sleeves and get stuck in, but now she's definitely a lady of lunches.
[Door opens.]
What's the next move? We're going to see Powell the printer.
He's obviously convinced that Ray lever ran off with company money.
Let's hope he gives us a lead.
Frank? Well, how did it go? Well, not really what I was looking for.
Oh? Still, a job's what you make of it, I suppose.
You mean you got it? Start tomorrow.
Congratulations.
[Laughs.]
It's a feather in his cap at his age.
Even so, I might have seemed a bit over-pleased.
Just a bit.
The main thing is, he's out of our hair.
But still in my bed.
See these? Mail order catalogues, brochures, and price lists ready to go.
All scrap now.
No use to anybody.
If I don't get paid, I can't pay my suppliers and so on down the line.
Bad debts kill small firms.
Why are you so sure that Ray lever absconded with company money? Come here.
During the last few months, he asked me to print these invitations.
Dinner.
Champagne party.
That was when his divorce came through.
Ah.
When he and his ex-missus carved up the company and left us for dead.
He seems to have had a taste for the good life, Mr.
Powell.
Perhaps that's where the money went.
Then there's this.
He wanted to know if I could make it into a Christmas card.
Him in front of his villa.
His villa? That's what he said.
Well, thanks for your help, Mr.
Powell.
Let me know if you hear anything.
I will.
If Ray lever likes splashing out, what's he been doing renting a shabby flat in Ackersley? Was it probably Do you think he could be over there? Over where? All that photo shows is that Ray lever went somewhere sunny, and somehow I don't think Mr.
dickson is going to pay for us to go looking.
Pity.
Not at all.
Too much sun is very bad for somebody with your skin tone.
The fact sheets have the basic information about the paintings, but if you want more detail, you'll find it in one or other of the books.
Thank you.
Yeah.
Spend today on these, and tomorrow we'll let you loose in the gallery.
Right.
How long since you've seen him? Days, weeks? 3 weeks.
I don't keep a check on tenants.
Do you know if he had many visitors? No, I don't.
You didn't know where he was going? No.
Did he pay his rent? Landlord's agent deals with that.
I'm here on behalf of Mr.
lever's elected liquidator.
I'm not the police.
Wouldn't matter if you were.
I don't snoop, I don't gossip.
You finished? Hetty: Geoffrey! Oh.
See you later.
See ya! Phew.
Anything? No noisy parties as far as anyone can remember.
Ditto.
Maybe nobody came.
Did you get Sandra lever on the phone? She won't see us.
She's got a hair appointment in blackburn.
Who owns the most expensive hair dresser in blackburn? [Pop music playing.]
What are you doing here? I was in the area.
It seemed rude to pass.
Oh.
Michelle, is there a quiet corner where I could deal with this? What are you trying to do? My job, Mrs.
lever.
Oh, your job.
To embarrass me and fill people's mouths with gossip? Just answer a couple of questions and I'll be out of your way.
[Sighs.]
What is it? Was your ex-husband a sociable type? In what way? Was he in the habit of throwing parties? Hmm, we entertained a bit, but not that keen, no.
What about this? Oh, it's Ray.
So what? Did you take it? I don't think so.
Having the business meant we often took separate holidays.
You don't recognize the villa then.
No.
Why? Should I? One of the creditors says it's Ray's.
Oh, his villa? I don't believe it.
Look, where's this leading? I've said all I'm going to say.
If he's been salting money away, it's got nothing to do with me.
Mrs.
lever? Don't mind me, but I think your time is up.
True to their industrious spirit, the victorians expected their art to do something.
To amuse perhaps, to uplift, or to warn.
In other words, a painting had to earn its keep.
Now, take this painting done in the mid Mid, um [Tape rewinds.]
Anybody in?! Reminds me of my days as a latchkey kid.
Hello, Mr.
Wainthropp! You're in then, Frank.
My easy learning tapes.
Yes, I'm on rossetti and the pre-raphaelites.
Very nice.
Mmm! How did your first day go? Not bad.
Not bad.
How was your day? All slog and no progress, wasn't it, Geoffrey? Afraid so, yeah.
Any thoughts on supper? I've organized something.
Oh, good! In the fridge.
[Telephone rings.]
Oh! Hello? Robert! Oh, how are you?! Good! Yes, I'm fine.
Ha ha! All the better for hearing our voice.
Ha ha.
How's everybody over there? Now, listen, Robert, the news is good this end as well.
I've found somewhere for Derek and Gloria and the children to stay when they come over.
Yes.
It's a place just across from jubilee park.
Oh, I I see.
Oh, right.
[Geoffrey sighs.]
This is supper.
[Chuckles.]
How's Mr.
Wainthropp? He's fine.
Is everything all right? Yes.
Why? You look like you've had some bad news Apart from the sandwiches.
Ha.
It's Just that I assumed Derek and the family would stay nearby when they came over.
Now, Robert tells me that Gloria's set her mind on something further a-field.
Oh? It's near her mother's.
Just means they won't be on the doorstep, that's all.
It's probably for the best If we get busy.
Yeah.
She was asking about this new development at salford keys.
That's nowhere near her mother's.
No.
She thought salford so that Derek wouldn't have so far to travel each day.
Logical, I suppose.
Oh, logical, yes.
She says you cornered her in a hair salon.
I needed answers, Mr.
Dixon.
She said you were harassing her.
Good for you.
Hetty: I applied gentle pressure, no more.
This committee expects you to stay within the bounds of reasonable behavior.
A spoiled day for her, I can live with.
Same here.
But have you made any progress? Nothing to report as yet.
But we're following up certain lines of inquiry.
Nothing as yet? Let me say again the money available for this investigation is limited! Look, we all know about that.
But this isn't just about money.
Well, I'm afraid it is.
It's about justice for people who've been duped and cheated.
I'm sorry, that's not the issue.
Well, you're sitting pretty.
You get your fee the money just isn't there, Mr.
Powell! If Ray levers nicked company funds, that's fraud.
And we want him brought back and banged up Even if he has spent it! How do you do? If you know what's on the fact sheet, you'll be fine.
And Jack will only be next door if you need any help.
Right.
Good luck.
You done this sort of thing before? No.
No.
As a matter of fact, I was hoping to find something more in my line.
Like what? Well, my family are in the detection business.
Ah.
Undercover surveillance.
That sort of thing.
Still, I suppose this job has its moments.
Oh, yes.
It's best if you and me can take our breaks to fit in.
You go, I keep an eye on your room, in vice versa.
Right.
You'll soon settle in.
Yes.
What exactly are we looking for? I'm not sure.
Just delve.
We know that a lot of creditors weren't paid.
But what about those who were Ray lever's friends perhaps? Well, he made sure they were paid before the firm went bust.
Correct.
Somebody who might now be willing to hide him.
Pre-raphaelite school.
No hearth nor home there.
No pots or pans.
This woman has been raised above her role of wife or mother to become that timeless icon, the beloved lady.
[Snoring.]
N-8-8-o-r-t-h.
I'm sorry? Ray lever's rover.
What about it? We wondered where it's got to.
Wherever he's taken it, I assume.
It's a company car.
Well worth recovering, wouldn't you say? Yes and no.
I don't suppose finding a car will be any less expensive than finding the driver.
You're a born optimist, Mr.
Dixon.
That's a joke, I assume.
Well spotted.
Do you think you can find the car? Well, according to the books, the insurance was up for renewal last week.
Perhaps Ray lever surfaced somewhere to do it.
I see.
Yes, I understand.
Thank you.
They won't give details except to say the rover is no longer insured with them.
So, he hasn't renewed it.
Or he's changed his insurers.
Or he's changed cars.
How can we find out? I'll ask Janet.
The motor trade has a computer system that tracks bought and sold cars.
And she's got access to it? Well, I don't know.
But I can ask.
This isn't another excuse to canoodle on company time, is it, Geoffrey? To what?! Well, I've lost one partner to the lure of the antipodes.
I don't want to lose another to the charms of an oil rag.
I wouldn't expect a favor without doing one in return.
What sort of favor could you do for me, Geoff? Spot of free surveillance work.
Oh! I've always wanted! Well, what do you say? I'll see.
Great! I said I'll see.
Mr.
Scully might not like it.
He said you've been expecting too much after-sale service already on that heap of junk you bought from us.
Heap of junk?! His words.
But then again, he knows nothing about cars.
Right.
I'll come back later.
[Snoring.]
[Coughs.]
[Snores louder.]
Of course, it doesn't show us what he's bought in exchange.
But it gives us our lead.
Ha.
[Door opens.]
Frank? [Door closes.]
Yeah.
He's early.
Young Janet's come up with the goods for us, Frank.
Oh! Ray lever's rover was sold 3 days ago in barnoldswick.
Ah.
I thought it was most likely gathering dust in an airport car park.
So you said.
Geoffrey: Ah! Escape to barnoldswick.
Hard to credit.
[Chuckles.]
You're back a bit earlier today.
Yes.
Something the matter? I won't be going back to the gallery.
Why not? I've left that job.
But you've not been there 5 minutes.
But it was a mistake, Hetty.
I just didn't see how you and Geoffrey could go hurrying off to barnoldswick and such like without having somebody back here at the base.
No! It's done, Hetty.
I gave my word to Robert.
This hurrying off to barnoldswick, it's a fair distance.
I'd better get some petrol.
Who's watering his plants in weston-super-mare? I've tried that one.
It's no good.
We'll just have to put up with him for the time being.
Ha ha.
Oh! Comfy? Not so as you'd notice.
My feet are boiling.
Is there no adjustment? Romeo-tango-hotel.
Chance would be a fine thing.
Come on.
We're in business.
Man: Yeah.
That's him.
Nice guy.
Did he trade it in for another vehicle? No.
Straight cash deal.
What's your interest? We're working for the liquidator of Mr.
lever's company.
The title to the car is clean, I checked.
We're looking for Mr.
lever, not the car.
Did he give you an address? No.
Have you seen him since? No, but then I've hardly be looking out for him, would it? Why not? Cash deal.
Down on his luck, isn't he? Somehow, I don't think there's a crock of gold at the end of this rainbow.
Or even a set of kitchen furniture.
So, where now? Well, if he's short of money, he may have got a job Something he knows.
You take the furniture shops, I'll do the job centre.
Thank you for trying anyway.
Joinery workshops.
His original trade.
He might have just landed here, sold the car, and then scooted off.
But he came here just to sell a car.
Well, if he's got no money, why do we keep looking for him? Go and ask them for the yellow pages.
Go on.
Took Ray on a month's trial.
No need to bother, he's a first-rate craftsman.
Hard to come by.
We heard he'd moved and got a job, but none of the family knew exactly where.
Oh, that's him over there in the checked shirt.
We won't disturb him.
I don't mind calling him out for a minute or two.
No, no he's busy.
No need to say we were here really.
If you got his home address, we'll surprise him there later.
You're his aunty, you say? Aunty and nephew.
His favorite nephew.
He lives a little way out of town.
I've got his address in the office.
Thank you.
Don't overdo it, Geoffrey.
Brian Powell, member of the liquidation committee of pine paradise.
Oh, yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp said it would be all right to call by and progress her enquiries.
Oh, yes, of course.
I hope that she will be reporting in to me very soon.
Do come in, Mr.
Powell.
Thank you.
Why didn't you want to speak to him? And send him on the run again? We have a mystery to solve.
He could be living the life of Riley.
Is that likely? Not really.
But we better be sure.
And we better tell Frank what's happening.
[Telephone rings.]
Wainthropp detective agent Frank? We've found him.
I need you to tell the liquidation committee.
Oh, hold on, Hetty.
Yeah, I'll make a note.
All right.
We found him in the workshop.
Oh, yes, he's a dab hand at the barley twist legs and knobby handrails.
Did you speak to him? No.
I'll call Mr.
Dixon.
I can tell Mr.
Powell right now because he's standing here.
Yes, he called in to see if there was any news.
Yes.
See you later.
Bye.
Well, they found Ray lever.
He's at axis joinery, barnoldswick.
You've forgotten your glasses, haven't you? Oh, don't nag, Geoffrey.
That was it, I think.
Geoffrey: Oh, really? The end of the rainbow.
Hello? Oh.
Oh, excuse me.
But does Mr.
Ray lever live here? [Sighs.]
So soon? I knew Ray had money problems.
He didn't say how bad Not until the end.
Thank you.
But he always talked about getting out.
Thanks.
He never was a businessman.
His wife wanted it, so that's what he had to be.
Makes him sound weak, doesn't it? We've met Mrs.
lever.
It was her divorce settlement that took all the capital out of the company.
I have rather gathered that.
Ray's been happy the time we've been here.
We both have.
I know we ran away, left all the problems behind, but we just wanted a new start.
I don't see why you can't carry on as you want.
Ray will have to square the sale of the company car with the creditors, but he doesn't seem to be hiding any other assets.
This place is rented.
No phone.
No telly even.
What you see is what we've got.
There's no villa then? Villa? Where did you get this? Why? It's mine.
It's mine, this photograph.
I asked Ray for it, and he gave me this holiday snap.
So, the villa was a holiday let? Yes, of course.
But this was hidden in my dressing table.
Well, one of Ray's creditors gave it to me.
Creditors? Uh-huh.
You mean Brian Powell, my husband.
Oh, you You won't tell him where Ray is, will you? Please! I'm sorry, Mrs.
Powell, but I think I already have.
We'll go straight there and tell Ray what's happened.
At least your husband doesn't know about this place.
Not yet.
I'm sorry.
Just hurry, please! Powell's used us.
He probably knew Ray lever had no money.
What about the party invitations? He's a printer, isn't he? Must have had them run off at our benefit.
You, me, the liquidation committee We've all been set up to find his wife.
You look scared to death.
Well, all we can do now is warn Ray lever.
Do you think you can remember the way back? Oh, no.
[Honks horn.]
Patience, Geoffrey.
Hang on.
We should have turned right.
Oh, flippin' heck! Now then.
Let's hope this way takes us back to the main road.
All right, steady down.
Step on it, you said.
That was before me feet started to burn.
You know there is something seriously wrong when the floor gets as hot as this, Geoffrey.
I don't believe it! Come on.
Oh, yay.
He's turning off.
Thank goodness for that.
Road rage doesn't become you, Geoffrey.
Hetty: He's got a gun.
Hetty: Ray! [Gunshot.]
[Screams.]
[Growling.]
You ok? Yeah.
I thought this was a detective agency, not the s.
A.
S.
I mean, what would Robert say? All right, Frank.
Keep calm.
At least we're guaranteed payment.
Which is more than can be said for dora James.
Has she been 'round? Yes, twice.
I better go and break the news.
Ray says he'll come and look at her kitchen.
Sounds as though he's got something special in mind.
I think a celebration is in order, don't you, Geoffrey? Uh, something else I ought to mention Confession, really About the job.
Oh? It wasn't my decision To leave.
You mean you were sacked? Oh, no, no.
Not sacked.
No, no.
My job was de-emphasized.
But they'd only just taken you on.
Yes, but you see the thing was, Jack and me We fell asleep at the same time.
Something they'd hoped to avoid.
Fell asleep? Yes, all the learning must have got to me.
But if you both fell asleep, why did you have to go and not Jack? Well, last in first out, that's fair enough really.
Besides He wasn't snoring.
Hetty: I see.
I'm sorry, Frank.
Why? I'm not.
Hetty: All for one, and one for all Snoring optional.
[Doorbell rings.]
Mmm! That'll be dora.
Get another glass, Geoffrey.
I want another month.
You can't trade one more day, let alone a month.
You heard what the man said.
It's illegal.
Are you going to sign it or not? I haven't got all day.
I'll make it as painless as possible.
Excuse me.
Excuse me.
Is the shop open? No it's closed, for good.
For good? Afraid so.
I'm waiting for some furniture.
Sorry.
But I've paid for it.
Ring my office.
They'll tell you about the creditors meeting.
It's me.
Pack a case.
Just the person I've been waiting for.
Oh, a lot overdue, are they? Nothing to do with books, Mrs.
Wainthropp.
Paintings.
What paintings? A while back, Mr.
Wainthropp said he might be interested in a job if a suitable opportunity came up.
Oh, he did, did he? I said I'd look out for one on the council's list of vacancies, and I thought this might be just the thing.
Gallery attendant.
In the art gallery above the museum.
But Mr.
Wainthropp knows nothing about art.
I think they're looking for a security guard as much as anything.
And he'll be told what he needed to know A bit of swatting, perhaps? [Chuckles.]
Well, I'm sure he'd be very grateful if he was here, Oh, no.
Very much in the pink.
Pinker than pink, probably.
He's in Australia.
Lucky man.
Hmm.
More than you'd guess.
His brother won a return ticket in a gardening competition and gave it to him.
Really? That's wonderful.
Well, we've got family out there and his brother's terrified of flying, so, off Robert's gone.
Leaving you to run his errands.
Exactly.
Shame.
That'll be 90p, please.
Robert told me the agency was going great guns, but he he didn't tell me Hetty was famous.
Why, it's only the local rag, Mr.
Wainthropp.
It's not every day we hit the headlines.
No, but look.
We'd much rather stay out of the public eye, in fact.
Oh, I get it Incognito, covert operation, all that.
It's very interesting.
[Door opens.]
Oh, she's here now.
Geoffrey? Hello.
Whose is this? Mr.
Wainthropp.
What? Your brother-in-law.
Frank? Frank? Hello, Hetty.
Geoffrey: I'll be upstairs.
Whatever are you doing here? Well, didn't Robert tell you I was coming? No.
Oh, well, he probably didn't want you to think he was forcing me.
What about? Leaving you to go jetting off.
He made me promise I'd pop in and see if you're all right.
Pop in? All the way from weston-super-mare? Well, more like a detour, really, on me way to Peggy's.
Ah.
She told me how good you were over young Tommy's little problem.
A call is the least I could do.
Well, it's very nice to see you anyway.
[Laughs.]
But Robert shouldn't have put you out.
Oh, it's my pleasure, Hetty.
In fact, it's more like I'm putting you out.
Oh? Yes, I got me dates mixed up, Peggy's got the decorators in, so there's no room for me there.
I didn't mind Robert going.
It was a chance in a million.
But he said nothing about doing b and b for his brother in return.
It was his ticket.
Yes, of course it was, Geoffrey.
And I don't mind sleeping in the put-you-up for a night or two.
Good lad.
He did seem genuinely interested in the agency.
Very impressed by the cuttings.
Oh, yes? [Telephone ringing.]
What now? Frank: I'll get it.
Oh, hello.
Hello.
Is Mrs.
Wainthropp at home? Yeah, come in.
I'm her brother-in-law Frank.
Pleased to meet you.
I'm dora James from down the road.
Well, go through, dora.
Go on, go through.
Hetty: Hello, dora.
Hetty.
Come in and sit down.
Tea or smelling salts? You look all of a-tremble.
Tea would be lovely, thank you.
Frank: I'll put the kettle on, will I? I don't want to interrupt anything, Hetty.
You're not.
Look, it's just a bit of advice.
Now, take your time.
I have a window, as they say.
I've done a really stupid thing.
Go on.
I forked out £400 for some kitchen furniture.
So what's happened? I paid the shop upfront, Hetty, and now it's gone bust.
Oh, no.
I've been sent notice of a creditors meeting by an accountant.
What accountant? The fellow dealing with it.
That would be the liquidator.
That's it liquidator.
He didn't seem very hopeful.
No, they never are.
You think I've lost the money? I suppose you'll have to go to this meeting to find out.
The problem is, it's the same day as our Barry's degree ceremony, and I can't miss that, can I? Course not, no.
It's a big favor, Hetty, but they say I can send a substitute.
A proxy, they call it.
Are you asking me? Yeah.
You're the only one I know with enough gumption to ask about my money.
Thank you.
Dear, oh, dear, oh, dear.
Well, Robert always did have his own way of doing things.
You're not changing his figures? Ho ho, I'm leaving his system exactly as it is.
I'm just setting out the accounts as they should be.
He asked you to do that, did he? He asked me to check things, yes.
You see, I've had much more experience of business than our Robert.
Oh.
I shall be coming to your car loan in a moment.
Man: And having considered the advice, the directors concluded that 4 more proceedings for winding up should be started.
On the basis of the statement before you, it is unlikely that surplus funds will be available for unsecured creditors.
I would like now to invite questions from the floor.
Paul croft, wood works international.
Isn't it true that the company was still ordering stock, long after it became obvious that it was bust? Nothing was obvious, Mr.
croft.
The hope was that trading would improve.
And you were happy to hope with our money? All business is a risk.
Yes, and a lot of it's crooked.
Wild accusations won't help.
Let's just keep to the facts.
Yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp, standing in for a neighbor who paid cash on the nail for furniture she hasn't had.
I want to know why she can't have items out of the showroom instead.
They're not exactly what she wants, but it'd be better than nothing.
I'm afraid that isn't how things are done.
All of the assets have to be sold to satisfy the charge holder.
Oh? What's that? He means the bank.
It's the usual stitch-up.
So this is more or less an interest-free loan.
Is that what you said? Yes.
A perk.
Well, I am a director, Mr.
Wainthropp.
Yes, so I understand, but this is no way to teach you the realities of life, is it? [Telephone ringing.]
I hope you're going to declare it as a benefit in kind.
Wainthropp detective agency.
G'day to you, too, Mr.
Wainthropp.
Yeah, I'm very well, thanks.
How are you? No, no, I can hear you as clear as anything.
[Whispering.]
It's Mr.
Wainthropp.
No, she's out.
Your brother's here, though.
Frank, yes.
Oh, he stopped by to check we're coping while you were away, like you asked him to.
Hey, let me say hello.
Uh, he's here now.
Hello there, cobber.
Brian Powell, pyecroft print.
Just one question.
Why isn't Ray lever here to face us? I understand Mr.
lever is unwell.
Really? So Mrs.
lever knows where he is, does she? Where? Not exactly, no.
So he's scampered, then, has he? [Laughter.]
I don't keep tabs on him.
I'm his ex-wife, you know.
Yes, you made sure you got out in time.
So where is he? Mr.
lever has been under a lot of strain lately and decided to take a break.
Make a break, you mean? Now, don't tell me he's gone with nothing in his pocket.
There's no evidence that assets have gone missing, Mr.
Powell.
Well I'm suggesting it's your job to get hold of him and find out.
To get hold of him? I propose a liquidation committee is formed to hire someone to find him.
[Several people talking at once.]
The cost of an enquiry agent would reduce funds by at least £2,000 a week.
So what? It's all going to the bank anyway.
My job is to protect what money there is, not make matters worse.
What about protecting us? We made nothing out of this.
If I may change hats midstream Man: Yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp of the Wainthropp detective agency.
You may have seen us in the yellow pages.
We offer a first-rate service at a fraction of the price you've quoted.
I feel a bit guilty.
We pick up a job and dora loses her money.
It's always the little people who suffer.
If we're successful, she might get something back.
Yes.
Positive thinking, Geoffrey.
Thank you.
You really think lever's run off with the company cash? Some of the creditors seem convinced.
We've got to find him first.
Where do we start? His last known address.
Have the car warmed up for 8:30 in the morning.
Right.
It's a shame you missed Mr.
Wainthropp's phone call.
Ah.
[Chuckles.]
He'll try again.
Just so long as I know he's in one piece.
He he seemed a bit surprised that his brother was here.
[Chuckles.]
Robert probably said something off the cuff and Frank's taken it on himself to be big brother.
What was he up to this morning? Polishing the accounts.
Right.
Seemed more like hoovering to me.
[Chuckles.]
Put you through the dust bag, did he? Hmm.
Oh, well.
As soon as he gets together with his old cronies rounded about, he'll lose interest in us.
I'm not so sure.
Why is that? I think I've whetted his appetite with our newspaper cuttings.
I can't be certain, but I'd say he's angling to stay a bit longer than a couple of days.
What's up? There's a knocking sound in the steering.
I haven't got time now.
Well, it's dead worrying.
Go on, then.
Get in.
How do you reckon? Serious? Golf ball.
Amazing.
That's the problem? Yeah.
Amazing.
You've said.
Amazing.
Ha ha.
I'm not sure if you're stupid or just daft.
Len Harris has gone abroad, bill woods died last year, and Donald Walker has moved to somerset.
So you didn't meet up with anybody? Harry hoggs has gone potty and didn't know me from Adam.
Oh, dear.
Well, if Donald Walker's in your part of the world, you might be able to meet up there.
Well, the thing is, since Peggy and Malcolm have moved back up north, I was thinking of coming back myself.
Oh, really? Yeah, not too close, mind.
Just near enough.
Like where? Well, somewhere around here would be ideal.
But I thought you were still doing a bit of business back home, Frank.
No, no.
Nothing much.
Course, I don't like to be idle.
I shall be looking for something.
A job, you mean? Well, you know me, Hetty.
I like to keep meself busy.
So, if you have any thoughts Well, yes, Frank.
As a matter of fact, I have.
What if he's there? We'll tell him we're looking for your lost cat, Geoffrey.
Doesn't exactly shout money, does it? Nothing very notable, I'm afraid, but bequeathed by local patrons, so an important record of their time in the town's history.
I was in short trousers last time I was in here.
Yes, well, I'm sure we've given it a lick of paint and cleaned the odd canvas since then.
Yes.
We like our attendants to be able to answer questions from visitors about the paintings.
Yes, so I understand, yes.
Nothing in too much depth.
Security is our prime consideration.
Security.
Of course.
Discreet but watchful.
While having a nose for trouble.
Yes, I suppose so.
Any joy your side? The neighbors haven't seen him for days.
Any of them know where he might have gone? Nobody knows him that well.
Just someone they used to say hello to.
How about you? It's the same story.
There's a caretaker who says we'll have to talk to the landlord to get into the flat.
We'll have to see what Mr.
dickson can do for us about that.
What now? We need to find out what sort of animal we're hunting, Geoffrey.
We better go and see the one who should know.
Good morning, Mrs.
lever.
Who's this? Mr.
Shawcross.
My business partner.
Come in.
Thank you.
As I said on the phone, I'm due out at half past.
In here, please.
I told the liquidator I couldn't help, but he said I had to play along.
So, what do you want? We need background, Mrs.
lever.
Something that might give a clue to your husband's whereabouts.
Such as? Well, what sort of a man is he? The failed sort.
What about friends? Favorite haunts? I divorced Ray two years ago.
I haven't any idea what he's been doing or who he sees.
But you're a co-director of the company.
On the letterhead.
But I've had no real contact with the business since the divorce.
This was your married home? Yes.
Very nice.
Oh, let me get something clear.
It wasn't my divorce settlement that caused the business to go under.
I didn't say it was.
What I got, I earned.
I lived in hope of turning Ray into a businessman, but he was clueless.
Some say I pushed him too hard.
When I wasn't pushing, he was sliding back.
He relied on me from day one.
In fact, the divorce could have been the reason why the firm went under.
Because I walked away? You think I should have stayed married for the sake of your neighbor's kitchen suite? Do you know where he might have gone? To hell, probably.
Told him to go there often enough.
You're not worried, then, for his state of mind, his well being? Why is he writing? I'm just taking notes, Mrs.
lever.
If you're saying he might do something to himself, forget it.
He's not the type.
You know the type.
Oh, I know Ray.
He's out there somewhere, lying low.
Living on what? No idea.
He isn't sitting on a crock of gold, if that's what you're hoping.
If he hasn't taken any money, why would he bother to disappear? He's done what he always does Left me to face the music.
Do you have a photograph of him? I don't know how recent.
May I borrow it? Keep it.
Now, if you don't mind, I have to be somewhere.
You didn't say what Mr.
lever's original trade was.
He was a pattern maker, a joiner.
Told you it wouldn't be much help.
Thank you anyway.
I want to draw a line under my life with Ray, you understand? I don't want to see you here again.
Now we know where he is.
Where? As far away from her as possible.
Suppose the levers got divorced as a way of getting the assets out of the company? You mean they could still be together, after what she said about him? Never.
Well, whatever.
Mrs.
lever is certainly well set up.
Maybe she did used to roll up her sleeves and get stuck in, but now she's definitely a lady of lunches.
[Door opens.]
What's the next move? We're going to see Powell the printer.
He's obviously convinced that Ray lever ran off with company money.
Let's hope he gives us a lead.
Frank? Well, how did it go? Well, not really what I was looking for.
Oh? Still, a job's what you make of it, I suppose.
You mean you got it? Start tomorrow.
Congratulations.
[Laughs.]
It's a feather in his cap at his age.
Even so, I might have seemed a bit over-pleased.
Just a bit.
The main thing is, he's out of our hair.
But still in my bed.
See these? Mail order catalogues, brochures, and price lists ready to go.
All scrap now.
No use to anybody.
If I don't get paid, I can't pay my suppliers and so on down the line.
Bad debts kill small firms.
Why are you so sure that Ray lever absconded with company money? Come here.
During the last few months, he asked me to print these invitations.
Dinner.
Champagne party.
That was when his divorce came through.
Ah.
When he and his ex-missus carved up the company and left us for dead.
He seems to have had a taste for the good life, Mr.
Powell.
Perhaps that's where the money went.
Then there's this.
He wanted to know if I could make it into a Christmas card.
Him in front of his villa.
His villa? That's what he said.
Well, thanks for your help, Mr.
Powell.
Let me know if you hear anything.
I will.
If Ray lever likes splashing out, what's he been doing renting a shabby flat in Ackersley? Was it probably Do you think he could be over there? Over where? All that photo shows is that Ray lever went somewhere sunny, and somehow I don't think Mr.
dickson is going to pay for us to go looking.
Pity.
Not at all.
Too much sun is very bad for somebody with your skin tone.
The fact sheets have the basic information about the paintings, but if you want more detail, you'll find it in one or other of the books.
Thank you.
Yeah.
Spend today on these, and tomorrow we'll let you loose in the gallery.
Right.
How long since you've seen him? Days, weeks? 3 weeks.
I don't keep a check on tenants.
Do you know if he had many visitors? No, I don't.
You didn't know where he was going? No.
Did he pay his rent? Landlord's agent deals with that.
I'm here on behalf of Mr.
lever's elected liquidator.
I'm not the police.
Wouldn't matter if you were.
I don't snoop, I don't gossip.
You finished? Hetty: Geoffrey! Oh.
See you later.
See ya! Phew.
Anything? No noisy parties as far as anyone can remember.
Ditto.
Maybe nobody came.
Did you get Sandra lever on the phone? She won't see us.
She's got a hair appointment in blackburn.
Who owns the most expensive hair dresser in blackburn? [Pop music playing.]
What are you doing here? I was in the area.
It seemed rude to pass.
Oh.
Michelle, is there a quiet corner where I could deal with this? What are you trying to do? My job, Mrs.
lever.
Oh, your job.
To embarrass me and fill people's mouths with gossip? Just answer a couple of questions and I'll be out of your way.
[Sighs.]
What is it? Was your ex-husband a sociable type? In what way? Was he in the habit of throwing parties? Hmm, we entertained a bit, but not that keen, no.
What about this? Oh, it's Ray.
So what? Did you take it? I don't think so.
Having the business meant we often took separate holidays.
You don't recognize the villa then.
No.
Why? Should I? One of the creditors says it's Ray's.
Oh, his villa? I don't believe it.
Look, where's this leading? I've said all I'm going to say.
If he's been salting money away, it's got nothing to do with me.
Mrs.
lever? Don't mind me, but I think your time is up.
True to their industrious spirit, the victorians expected their art to do something.
To amuse perhaps, to uplift, or to warn.
In other words, a painting had to earn its keep.
Now, take this painting done in the mid Mid, um [Tape rewinds.]
Anybody in?! Reminds me of my days as a latchkey kid.
Hello, Mr.
Wainthropp! You're in then, Frank.
My easy learning tapes.
Yes, I'm on rossetti and the pre-raphaelites.
Very nice.
Mmm! How did your first day go? Not bad.
Not bad.
How was your day? All slog and no progress, wasn't it, Geoffrey? Afraid so, yeah.
Any thoughts on supper? I've organized something.
Oh, good! In the fridge.
[Telephone rings.]
Oh! Hello? Robert! Oh, how are you?! Good! Yes, I'm fine.
Ha ha! All the better for hearing our voice.
Ha ha.
How's everybody over there? Now, listen, Robert, the news is good this end as well.
I've found somewhere for Derek and Gloria and the children to stay when they come over.
Yes.
It's a place just across from jubilee park.
Oh, I I see.
Oh, right.
[Geoffrey sighs.]
This is supper.
[Chuckles.]
How's Mr.
Wainthropp? He's fine.
Is everything all right? Yes.
Why? You look like you've had some bad news Apart from the sandwiches.
Ha.
It's Just that I assumed Derek and the family would stay nearby when they came over.
Now, Robert tells me that Gloria's set her mind on something further a-field.
Oh? It's near her mother's.
Just means they won't be on the doorstep, that's all.
It's probably for the best If we get busy.
Yeah.
She was asking about this new development at salford keys.
That's nowhere near her mother's.
No.
She thought salford so that Derek wouldn't have so far to travel each day.
Logical, I suppose.
Oh, logical, yes.
She says you cornered her in a hair salon.
I needed answers, Mr.
Dixon.
She said you were harassing her.
Good for you.
Hetty: I applied gentle pressure, no more.
This committee expects you to stay within the bounds of reasonable behavior.
A spoiled day for her, I can live with.
Same here.
But have you made any progress? Nothing to report as yet.
But we're following up certain lines of inquiry.
Nothing as yet? Let me say again the money available for this investigation is limited! Look, we all know about that.
But this isn't just about money.
Well, I'm afraid it is.
It's about justice for people who've been duped and cheated.
I'm sorry, that's not the issue.
Well, you're sitting pretty.
You get your fee the money just isn't there, Mr.
Powell! If Ray levers nicked company funds, that's fraud.
And we want him brought back and banged up Even if he has spent it! How do you do? If you know what's on the fact sheet, you'll be fine.
And Jack will only be next door if you need any help.
Right.
Good luck.
You done this sort of thing before? No.
No.
As a matter of fact, I was hoping to find something more in my line.
Like what? Well, my family are in the detection business.
Ah.
Undercover surveillance.
That sort of thing.
Still, I suppose this job has its moments.
Oh, yes.
It's best if you and me can take our breaks to fit in.
You go, I keep an eye on your room, in vice versa.
Right.
You'll soon settle in.
Yes.
What exactly are we looking for? I'm not sure.
Just delve.
We know that a lot of creditors weren't paid.
But what about those who were Ray lever's friends perhaps? Well, he made sure they were paid before the firm went bust.
Correct.
Somebody who might now be willing to hide him.
Pre-raphaelite school.
No hearth nor home there.
No pots or pans.
This woman has been raised above her role of wife or mother to become that timeless icon, the beloved lady.
[Snoring.]
N-8-8-o-r-t-h.
I'm sorry? Ray lever's rover.
What about it? We wondered where it's got to.
Wherever he's taken it, I assume.
It's a company car.
Well worth recovering, wouldn't you say? Yes and no.
I don't suppose finding a car will be any less expensive than finding the driver.
You're a born optimist, Mr.
Dixon.
That's a joke, I assume.
Well spotted.
Do you think you can find the car? Well, according to the books, the insurance was up for renewal last week.
Perhaps Ray lever surfaced somewhere to do it.
I see.
Yes, I understand.
Thank you.
They won't give details except to say the rover is no longer insured with them.
So, he hasn't renewed it.
Or he's changed his insurers.
Or he's changed cars.
How can we find out? I'll ask Janet.
The motor trade has a computer system that tracks bought and sold cars.
And she's got access to it? Well, I don't know.
But I can ask.
This isn't another excuse to canoodle on company time, is it, Geoffrey? To what?! Well, I've lost one partner to the lure of the antipodes.
I don't want to lose another to the charms of an oil rag.
I wouldn't expect a favor without doing one in return.
What sort of favor could you do for me, Geoff? Spot of free surveillance work.
Oh! I've always wanted! Well, what do you say? I'll see.
Great! I said I'll see.
Mr.
Scully might not like it.
He said you've been expecting too much after-sale service already on that heap of junk you bought from us.
Heap of junk?! His words.
But then again, he knows nothing about cars.
Right.
I'll come back later.
[Snoring.]
[Coughs.]
[Snores louder.]
Of course, it doesn't show us what he's bought in exchange.
But it gives us our lead.
Ha.
[Door opens.]
Frank? [Door closes.]
Yeah.
He's early.
Young Janet's come up with the goods for us, Frank.
Oh! Ray lever's rover was sold 3 days ago in barnoldswick.
Ah.
I thought it was most likely gathering dust in an airport car park.
So you said.
Geoffrey: Ah! Escape to barnoldswick.
Hard to credit.
[Chuckles.]
You're back a bit earlier today.
Yes.
Something the matter? I won't be going back to the gallery.
Why not? I've left that job.
But you've not been there 5 minutes.
But it was a mistake, Hetty.
I just didn't see how you and Geoffrey could go hurrying off to barnoldswick and such like without having somebody back here at the base.
No! It's done, Hetty.
I gave my word to Robert.
This hurrying off to barnoldswick, it's a fair distance.
I'd better get some petrol.
Who's watering his plants in weston-super-mare? I've tried that one.
It's no good.
We'll just have to put up with him for the time being.
Ha ha.
Oh! Comfy? Not so as you'd notice.
My feet are boiling.
Is there no adjustment? Romeo-tango-hotel.
Chance would be a fine thing.
Come on.
We're in business.
Man: Yeah.
That's him.
Nice guy.
Did he trade it in for another vehicle? No.
Straight cash deal.
What's your interest? We're working for the liquidator of Mr.
lever's company.
The title to the car is clean, I checked.
We're looking for Mr.
lever, not the car.
Did he give you an address? No.
Have you seen him since? No, but then I've hardly be looking out for him, would it? Why not? Cash deal.
Down on his luck, isn't he? Somehow, I don't think there's a crock of gold at the end of this rainbow.
Or even a set of kitchen furniture.
So, where now? Well, if he's short of money, he may have got a job Something he knows.
You take the furniture shops, I'll do the job centre.
Thank you for trying anyway.
Joinery workshops.
His original trade.
He might have just landed here, sold the car, and then scooted off.
But he came here just to sell a car.
Well, if he's got no money, why do we keep looking for him? Go and ask them for the yellow pages.
Go on.
Took Ray on a month's trial.
No need to bother, he's a first-rate craftsman.
Hard to come by.
We heard he'd moved and got a job, but none of the family knew exactly where.
Oh, that's him over there in the checked shirt.
We won't disturb him.
I don't mind calling him out for a minute or two.
No, no he's busy.
No need to say we were here really.
If you got his home address, we'll surprise him there later.
You're his aunty, you say? Aunty and nephew.
His favorite nephew.
He lives a little way out of town.
I've got his address in the office.
Thank you.
Don't overdo it, Geoffrey.
Brian Powell, member of the liquidation committee of pine paradise.
Oh, yes.
Mrs.
Wainthropp said it would be all right to call by and progress her enquiries.
Oh, yes, of course.
I hope that she will be reporting in to me very soon.
Do come in, Mr.
Powell.
Thank you.
Why didn't you want to speak to him? And send him on the run again? We have a mystery to solve.
He could be living the life of Riley.
Is that likely? Not really.
But we better be sure.
And we better tell Frank what's happening.
[Telephone rings.]
Wainthropp detective agent Frank? We've found him.
I need you to tell the liquidation committee.
Oh, hold on, Hetty.
Yeah, I'll make a note.
All right.
We found him in the workshop.
Oh, yes, he's a dab hand at the barley twist legs and knobby handrails.
Did you speak to him? No.
I'll call Mr.
Dixon.
I can tell Mr.
Powell right now because he's standing here.
Yes, he called in to see if there was any news.
Yes.
See you later.
Bye.
Well, they found Ray lever.
He's at axis joinery, barnoldswick.
You've forgotten your glasses, haven't you? Oh, don't nag, Geoffrey.
That was it, I think.
Geoffrey: Oh, really? The end of the rainbow.
Hello? Oh.
Oh, excuse me.
But does Mr.
Ray lever live here? [Sighs.]
So soon? I knew Ray had money problems.
He didn't say how bad Not until the end.
Thank you.
But he always talked about getting out.
Thanks.
He never was a businessman.
His wife wanted it, so that's what he had to be.
Makes him sound weak, doesn't it? We've met Mrs.
lever.
It was her divorce settlement that took all the capital out of the company.
I have rather gathered that.
Ray's been happy the time we've been here.
We both have.
I know we ran away, left all the problems behind, but we just wanted a new start.
I don't see why you can't carry on as you want.
Ray will have to square the sale of the company car with the creditors, but he doesn't seem to be hiding any other assets.
This place is rented.
No phone.
No telly even.
What you see is what we've got.
There's no villa then? Villa? Where did you get this? Why? It's mine.
It's mine, this photograph.
I asked Ray for it, and he gave me this holiday snap.
So, the villa was a holiday let? Yes, of course.
But this was hidden in my dressing table.
Well, one of Ray's creditors gave it to me.
Creditors? Uh-huh.
You mean Brian Powell, my husband.
Oh, you You won't tell him where Ray is, will you? Please! I'm sorry, Mrs.
Powell, but I think I already have.
We'll go straight there and tell Ray what's happened.
At least your husband doesn't know about this place.
Not yet.
I'm sorry.
Just hurry, please! Powell's used us.
He probably knew Ray lever had no money.
What about the party invitations? He's a printer, isn't he? Must have had them run off at our benefit.
You, me, the liquidation committee We've all been set up to find his wife.
You look scared to death.
Well, all we can do now is warn Ray lever.
Do you think you can remember the way back? Oh, no.
[Honks horn.]
Patience, Geoffrey.
Hang on.
We should have turned right.
Oh, flippin' heck! Now then.
Let's hope this way takes us back to the main road.
All right, steady down.
Step on it, you said.
That was before me feet started to burn.
You know there is something seriously wrong when the floor gets as hot as this, Geoffrey.
I don't believe it! Come on.
Oh, yay.
He's turning off.
Thank goodness for that.
Road rage doesn't become you, Geoffrey.
Hetty: He's got a gun.
Hetty: Ray! [Gunshot.]
[Screams.]
[Growling.]
You ok? Yeah.
I thought this was a detective agency, not the s.
A.
S.
I mean, what would Robert say? All right, Frank.
Keep calm.
At least we're guaranteed payment.
Which is more than can be said for dora James.
Has she been 'round? Yes, twice.
I better go and break the news.
Ray says he'll come and look at her kitchen.
Sounds as though he's got something special in mind.
I think a celebration is in order, don't you, Geoffrey? Uh, something else I ought to mention Confession, really About the job.
Oh? It wasn't my decision To leave.
You mean you were sacked? Oh, no, no.
Not sacked.
No, no.
My job was de-emphasized.
But they'd only just taken you on.
Yes, but you see the thing was, Jack and me We fell asleep at the same time.
Something they'd hoped to avoid.
Fell asleep? Yes, all the learning must have got to me.
But if you both fell asleep, why did you have to go and not Jack? Well, last in first out, that's fair enough really.
Besides He wasn't snoring.
Hetty: I see.
I'm sorry, Frank.
Why? I'm not.
Hetty: All for one, and one for all Snoring optional.
[Doorbell rings.]
Mmm! That'll be dora.
Get another glass, Geoffrey.