The Firechasers (1971) - full transcript
Insurance investigator must find out who is setting fires. Along the way he meets and works with a beautiful newspaper reporter and falls in love.
[EXPLOSION]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Emergency-- which service, please?
Fire.
[ALARM BELL]
[SIRENS]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[INAUDIBLE] 246 to control.
Divisional officer Jarvis at Routledge
Wine Company in Denby Street.
Send turntable and for the bus.
Over.
Get the car back. Go on.
OK. Get back.
Everybody, back.
Come along, please.
Come along.
Everybody, back.
Please, back.
Everybody, please, back.
Come on now, move along.
Everybody, back.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Miss Collins?
Who cut this?
You or one of your subs?
Me.
Why?
The editors indecision is final, or didn't you know?
My copy read third city fire in 10 days.
It gets blue penciled.
Now, I'd just like to hear why.
Because of the implication.
What do you mean implication?
You implied that the fires were linked.
Well, the fires are linked.
Have you got proof?
No, not exactly.
Well, you get it and I'll print it.
Right.
I'll hold you to that.
These pictures are good.
Oh, well, thank you.
Relax, so is your story.
No one can write up a fire like you, Toby.
You and Maxwell are a great team.
He's got talent, that boy.
I'm the one that told you that, remember?
Don't tell him.
He's costing us a small fortune.
Offer him a contract.
Think he'll bite?
He might, with a little persuasion.
Then work on it.
Uh-uh, not me.
Do your own dirty work.
Toby?
You really think it's arson?
I should contact the insurance federation.
You're joking.
You know how they feel about the press.
Besides, you ever try to reach Quentin Barnaby?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Oh, good morning, Quen.
Well, uh-- you got those reports on Smith Street?
The cops are waiting for them.
Mm.
Shall I take your coat?
No, I won't be staying that long.
I want to get out of here before Carlton arrives.
Hurry up--
Uh-uh-- too late. He's in there waiting.
Let me get that.
Ah, Barnaby, have you seen this?
It's a great picture.
It's the Routledge Wine Company.
The whole shebang went up in smoke last night.
So I see.
It's covered by one of our companies.
You know that.
Global, isn't it?
Yeah.
Well, how did it start?
What have you found?
Carlton, I'm a fire investigator,
not a circus performer.
I don't go traipsing about burning buildings.
When the whole thing's over, out, kaput,
then I go into action.
You know what this will cost?
Break my heart.
Around $100,000 pounds.
That's a lot of wine.
CARLTON: Three fires in six days in a radius
of a couple of miles, it's statistically impossible.
The average for this area is one--
Every 58.2 days.
Then you'll agree, something smells.
It crossed my mind.
Well, why aren't you down there?
What are you doing here?
That's a good question, considering
I'm due at Brigade headquarters in, uh-- exactly six minutes.
All I really needed from the office was some reports.
You'll keep me informed.
In triplicate.
Thank you.
If you need me, I'll be with Jarvis.
Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Ground floor, please?
Yes, Mr. Barnaby.
We were called to Smith Street on the night
of the fourth, an importing company, books mainly.
They said the basement was damp.
Well, I don't need to tell you, damp paper
can heat up like a haystack.
We can't be sure, but it looked like spontaneous combustion.
Where do you think it started?
Oh, in the basement, with the magazines--
made a lovely bonfire.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
We were called to this one at 11:40 last night.
But don't ask how it started.
We haven't a clue.
Who turned in the alarm?
A couple of kids.
That's Routledge, the owner.
Got it.
RADIO DISPATCH: 16-- return to HQ.
Yes, right.
I'm wanted at HQ.
I'd like those brigade reports.
I'll send them over.
Now, take it easy.
That place is a death trap.
Oh, [INAUDIBLE] a great claret.
My grandfather laid that down at the turn of the century--
irreplaceable.
How this happened is beyond me.
Fires don't just happen, Mr. Routledge.
As a matter of fact, I've never met one that didn't stem
from human error or weakness.
I fail to see what you'll glean from this one.
Well, you know, you never can tell.
Fires are a lot like women, most of them have a story to tell.
Take this one, for instance.
I'd say the fire started right in this area.
What makes you say that?
Well, the wood is more deeply charred.
And these ridges indicate intense heat.
Hmm.
I see.
Hi, Jim.
Oh, that's great.
It's beautiful.
Toby, you're too keen.
Don't you ever stop?
Life's so short.
That's what it will be if you don't let up.
What you need is a good night out.
With you?
Who else?
There.
What do you think?
I'm not mad about it.
No?
Have you seen Prentice?
Sure.
He and I fixed a deal.
He gets all of the [INAUDIBLE] rights.
I stay freelance and take the rest of the work.
Shrewd.
I think you've got an obsession.
You do, uh-- realize that you'll never,
ever do that again?
Do what?
Reach for that file.
Oh, come on now, I'm up there a dozen times a day.
Not any file.
I'm talking about that file.
The one you reached for at approximately 11:41,
with that tiny wisp of hair coming down,
and that carbon smudge on your left thumb.
[LAUGHING]
You don't understand, do you?
Look at that.
Now, that wall took six seconds to fall.
I got the picture.
No second chance.
No going back.
You either get it, or you don't.
And that's what I want, the spontaneity, the immediacy,
the frozen moment.
Well, you got it.
You sure?
Well, there, you might tell your friends
that I'm available for weddings, parties, and fires.
I'll do that.
Now, uh-- you don't mind if I get back to work?
No, no, no, please do.
Feel free.
Hi.
It's Miss Collins again.
No, don't tell me.
I know, Mr. Barnaby is still out.
They'll pay up one day, the insurance.
They pay me to investigate fires, Mr. Routledge,
not write checks.
Who locked up last night?
I did.
Anybody else have a key?
No.
Look, every penny I possess is tied up in my business.
Oh, I can sympathize, but that's not going
to help either one of us now.
Did you turn out the lights last night?
Yes, I turned them out myself.
And the lamp-- a desk lamp-- it was plugged in there.
Where?
Oh.
Ah, here it is.
Can I see it?
Here.
You have any other lamps down here?
No.
Any other appliances-- a fan, a heater?
Look, this is a wine cellar.
We don't use any heaters down here.
- Any staff trouble? - Trouble?
Oh, you know, the usual kind of thing.
A difference of opinion.
Sacked anybody lately?
No.
When's the last time you increased your insurance?
Now, look here, Barnaby, I hope you're not--
Please don't be upset.
I'm sure you don't buy wine without asking questions.
Where the vineyard is, the year, who the shipper was--
questions are part of my business too.
It's about, uh--
five years since I last increased the policy.
You can soon check.
Thank you.
I will.
I'm afraid I haven't been of much help to you.
But you have, Mr. Routledge.
You really have.
Interesting, isn't it?
MM.
Well, any child can see, that whatever's plugged in,
it wasn't this lamp.
I've been through that place with a sieve.
I couldn't find anything.
Then it must've been destroyed.
Or removed.
Removed?
Sure, after the fire.
By whom?
Now you're asking.
Have you checked the Routledge policy?
Yes, and the other two companies.
The owners are reputable.
The business is good.
I can't find any motive for arson.
Three major fires in six days.
Well, could it be coincidence?
Yeah, it could be.
And here's another one.
Look at the brigade call--
Smith Street, 11:36, Comms Lane, 11:43, Danby Street, 11:40.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[EXPLOSION]
[ALARM BELL]
[SIRENS]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Whose car is this?
Get it drifted back.
Someone take the wheel.
Park it over there.
Get another jet around the back.
How you doing?
Toby, I've got some great pictures.
Good. I'm going back to the office.
You coming?
No, I'm staying.
You [INAUDIBLE]
Right.
So, you still think it's a fire bug, eh?
I'm sure of it.
Nero rides again.
It's a good story.
Then print it.
Nothing I'd like better, when you have some proof.
Look.
There have been four major fires in one
area in less than two weeks.
Now, what more do you want?
Barnaby's confirmation would help.
Have you talked to him?
You find him, I'll talk to him.
Fin him?
What do you mean?
He was there.
Where?
At the fire.
Barnaby, that's him.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Quentin Barnaby?
Right.
Hi, I'm Toby Collins.
That sounds familiar.
I cover all the big fires for the, uh--
"Daily Express."
Ah, you're a reporter, huh?
Is that a look of surprise or disapproval?
Take your pick.
Excuse me, I have some work to do.
Uh-- look, I'll be brief and to the point.
Was it an accident or was it arson?
I make it a rule never to talk to reporters.
Why not?
Call it experience.
Now, if you'll forgive me.
I'm very persistent.
So am I.
But look, I think I can help you.
Good day, Miss Collins.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Yeah, but if you could talk.
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[GLASS BREAKING]
[KIDS YELLING]
QUENTIN: Hey, you kids?
[KIDS CHATTERING]
It's identical to the Routledge fire.
We can forget about coincidence, can't we?
Yeah.
Oh, before I forget, you've got a visitor.
Carlton?
Herman.
So soon.
What it is to be creative.
Just imagine the agony, the torture, the suffering
that went into this.
Every line is so full of meaning.
What is it?
I use it as a paperweight.
Oh, you know, sometimes I think
I'm in the wrong business.
You're also in the wrong chair.
20 years on the force and what do I got to show for it?
An office the size of your desk, an ulcer like Vesuvius.
Big fat pension.
But will I live to see it?
Cigarette?
Surely.
Help yourself.
Ah, that's nice.
Mm.
Well, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?
Arson is my baby to, remember?
Oh, who said anything about arson?
If it wasn't, you wouldn't have been there.
Well, Jarvis called.
It spread too fast.
Look, ever since this came out,
my phone hasn't stopped ringing.
Everyone asking for protection.
They thing there's a fire bug loose.
You've been reading Toby Collins again.
You know women. - Sure, and I know you.
If you were there, something's up.
Sid, would I keep anything from you?
Listen, insurance is your line.
Fire bugs are mine.
If anything turns up, you know the routine.
I know the routine.
- Any luck? - This is impossible.
The wine company was full of spirits
and the toy factory was full of solvents.
It ruins any analysis.
Afraid I can't help in that direction.
You check the switch?
Huh?
Yes, it's 15 amp, in good condition.
But, genius that I am, don't ask me what was plugged in.
Of course, if you want my personal opinion--
I'd love your personal opinion.
Give me a personal opinion.
Someone went in after the fire and removed
whatever was connected.
Mm-mm.
I checked.
Nobody went near the place.
Well, who took that?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell took it.
And Toby wrote the story.
But if you're not happy about it, don't blame her.
You wouldn't talk to her.
There's nothing to talk about.
Oh, Barnaby, you're the top investigator.
You know it's a fire bug.
Or do I quote you as saying, it's just coincidence.
You don't quote me.
Hmm.
It's some nut case-- must be.
Toby had a hunch right from the word go.
Really?
Right from the word go, huh?
Yeah, right from the beginning.
Well, you know women.
I have known a few, but not with that kind of intuition.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[KNOCKING]
Well, is that a look of surprise or disapproval?
Take your choice.
Can I come in?
Do.
But I should warn you, I make it a rule never
to talk to fire investigators.
That hurt.
It was meant to.
Want a drink?
Yeah, I'll have a scotch.
Any rules about it?
Mm-hmm.
Put her in the glass and leave it alone.
OK.
You know, for a reporter, you're not very curious.
Aren't you even wondering why I'm here?
Well, it's, um--
perfectly obvious.
You find me utterly irresistible.
I'm an open book.
Well, I read your article.
And--
I sure would like to know your source of information, lady.
Well, some of my best friends are fire bugs.
You ought to be careful.
They can be unpredictable and deadly dangerous.
- No. - Mm-hmm.
Really.
I recall one woman who set fire to a place
just because she liked bright colors.
And wasn't there a man that burnt down a restaurant
because the put onions on his burger?
Yeah. Frustration.
Mm.
That's usually at the bottom of it.
Show me a person that's all screwed up inside
and I'll show you a potential fire bug.
It's a screwy business.
You chose it.
Yeah, I started out as an engineer.
And I sold insurance.
I was even a cop for a while.
But nothing gelled until I put all my famous talents together
and here I am.
About to give me the third degree.
You were at all recent fires, weren't you?
Mm-hmm.
Aside from firemen, photographers, reporters,
you notice anybody else come and go.
No, not that I recall.
What made you think it was a fire bug?
Well, look at the figures.
Four fires in nine days.
Just a hunch, huh?
No, not exactly.
Do you have your car?
Mm-hmm.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Pull up here.
The wine company's around the next corner.
I know that, but stop here.
All very nice, very cozy, but there's no bar, no fireplace--
Look.
And a broken telephone.
Well, kids, vandals--
Think so?
Come on.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Thank you.
Now what do you say?
It could still be vandals.
Well, all the other phones are working around here.
If you ask me, someone deliberately
wrecked these phones to delay the brigade.
[PHONE RINGING]
Quentin Barnaby's office.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Put me through to him, will you?
I'm afraid he is not in.
If you care to leave your name.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): You must think I'm crazy.
Well, I'm not, see.
I started those fires.
I beg your pardon.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
Not much to go on, is it?
What time did it come in?
Uh-- 4:20.
I'll call the telephone people.
If she comes through again, keep her talking.
With luck, we might be able to trace it.
Right.
Tell me, Quentin, how old would you say she was?
Hell, I don't know, late 20's?
Hmm.
Great stuff.
Barnaby will love you for it.
How did you get onto it?
Every time I went to phone in my story,
I found the phone wrecked.
The second time, got me to thinking, and the third time,
I saw day light.
You should have told the police.
Aren't you glad I didn't.
Huh?
This way, Barnaby owes me a favor.
He'll come around next time.
Next time-- there isn't going to be any next time.
There will be.
Toby?
I know you're very anxious to get another story,
but you wouldn't start another fire to get it, would you?
That's quite an idea.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[GLASS BREAKING]
[WINDOW RATTLING]
[EXPLOSION]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[LAUGHING]
Hey.
Look what I see.
Watch out, man.
Look.
Oh, hands off.
Hey, cool it.
No, look.
What do know, we made it.
Satan is here.
[CHEERING]
[SIRENS]
Echo 246 to control.
Assistance required.
More than four.
Send fire folks.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hey.
Well, am I prophet, or am I prophet?
Looks like you're a prophet.
Come on.
[COUGHING]
MAN: Help!
Up here.
Jim, listen, I've got a great idea.
There's somebody up there.
Jim?
Jim, what are you doing?
Get out of the way.
I've got to get up there.
Jim, come down from there.
Quentin, Jim's going inside the building.
- What? - Yes, come on.
There.
Find Jarvis.
TOBY: Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell?
Maxwell?
Maxwell?
[INAUDIBLE]
Are you crazy, man?
What the hell do you think you're doing?
There's somebody in here.
MAN: Help.
What did I tell you.
Blimey.
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
Come on, move!
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[WHISTLE]
hey!
Hey!
[WHISTLE]
Hey!
Hey!
Come on, get the ladder up to him.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
What are we going to do?
Come on.
After you.
No, after you.
Don't look down.
I got some pictures.
Are they worth getting pneumonia for?
Yeah, this is waterproof.
Oh.
You OK?
Yeah, it only hurts when I trip.
Oh, you know you really had me scared.
Can't imagine why.
Can't you?
JIM: Toby, let's go.
You sure you're all right?
Oh, yeah, sure.
You ought to get out of those clothes.
Come on, come on, we've got a deadline.
I'll call you.
Thank you.
I thought I'd seen the last of you.
What?
Me leave without signing your paycheck?
When I was in there, I--
I noticed something I think will interest you.
What?
A kind of smell, like perfume.
Perfume?
Mm-hmm.
When this out, I want the whole area roped off.
Nobody going in ahead of me this time.
Come on.
Nothing like starting at the top.
I'll cover this floor.
You take the one below.
OK.
Have you found anything? - No, nothing.
Ugh, yuck.
Look.
You take that area over there.
If you find a plug or a socket-- - yell.
Right.
Val?
What is it?
Have you found something?
Whatever was attached to this, had
to fall somewhere in this area.
You take that side and I'll take this.
OK.
Quent, I found something.
What have you got?
Look out.
Ah.
Val?
Val?
Yes?
- You all right? - Yes.
You sure?
Yes, I'm fine.
QUENTIN: What did you find?
You'll think I'm crazy, but it looked to me like a tea maker.
Let's have a look.
- Here's the wire. - All right.
Let's clear it up.
Ooh.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
It's gone.
[NOISE]
How did you get past the policeman?
Uh-- press card, a smile, and my little girl, lost look.
Something wrong?
Oh, I see you're busy.
Call me.
Let's go back to the place we found the tea maker.
I'd like to collect some samples of ash.
Good idea.
How's the watchman?
Well, he's got a bad concussion.
I don't think we'll get anything out of him for a while.
Oh, it's amazing how some liquids remain stable,
no matter what you do to them.
It is, isn't it?
You've got something you'd like to tell me, in, you know,
words of two syllables or less?
Actually, it's eight--
polyvinylpyrrolidone.
Oh, that's beautiful.
Wow.
Now, if you tell me what it means,
I might let you teach me how to spell it.
Well, it's mainly used in hair lacquer--
highly inflammable.
And that's what I found on the watch men's clothes.
If your idea about the tea maker's right,
that could've gone into the pot.
Set the alarm.
When the time is right, boom.
It's a big step up in a candle and wood shavings.
You think you can pinpoint the brand?
I might, with a fair sample.
Not from these few traces. - Hair lacquer, huh?
Only one person I know who uses that stuff.
Oh, I just love you.
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Mr. Barnaby's office?
Quen, it's her, that woman.
Hang up.
What?
But you said keep her talking.
She'll be on again.
We need to buy all the time we can.
[PHONE RINGING]
Peters here.
Yeah, this is Barnaby.
She's been on.
Standby.
I think she'll call again.
Right. OK.
Standby.
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Is that Quentin Barnaby?
She's on.
Right. OK.
Let's go.
Hang on, will you please?
Uh-- I won't keep you long.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Oh, all right.
Miss Chrane, uh--
I want that memo sent out this afternoon, and copies
to all the directors, and--
Yes, Mr. Barnaby.
Anything else?
No, not that I can think of.
That will be all, Miss Chrane.
Right, Mr. Barnaby.
Sorry to have kept you.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): I've been reading about you, Mr. Barnaby.
Really?
Thank you.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
You're kidding.
Every single fire?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Yes, every single fire.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell, tell me where I can find Toby.
Uh-- yeah, down there, turn left, in that door.
Thanks.
[KNOCKING]
Well, well, well, into the spider's fire.
You're running a risk, aren't you?
Oh, I don't know.
I thought if I put on my little boy lost look,
you'd come to my assistance.
I need some help.
You know my terms.
I'm serious.
Well, so am I.
Oh, come on, you can do better than that.
Now, what can I do for you?
You have a picture library.
The best in Fleet Street.
I need some stills of all the recent fires.
Mm.
Anything special?
Yeah, exteriors of the buildings, close stuff.
May one ask why?
For insurance claims--
helps to assess the damage.
Ah.
Oh, I think I can manage that.
Hang on.
Oh.
Toby, what time should I pick you up?
What?
Well, for dinner.
We've got a date, remember? - You're kidding.
We didn't make any definite plans.
Just a minute.
We have.
Two seats for a concert, then dinner.
- Jim, we didn't make any plans. - It's all arranged.
Look, I'm sorry, but, uh--
I was up till 4:00 this morning.
I'm really beat.
We'll do it another night.
OK?
That's great.
Thank you.
I said I'm sorry.
Look, I got go.
I'm in a hurry.
Where are you going with those?
Oh, uh-- Quentin dropped by.
Uh-- he needs them for something.
I think it's in insurance.
- I see. - See you.
Yeah.
[INAUDIBLE]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
So she confessed, this caller.
Yes, she confessed.
To all of the fires.
Each and every one.
Plus 20 others.
I don't believe it.
Here.
She's crazy.
She ought to be locked up.
She has been, on at least three separate occasions.
Her name is Edwards.
We call her Edwards the Confessor.
What?
Someone robs a bank, she confesses.
Someone commits a murder, she did it.
You sure? I mean, couldn't the--
Read the report.
It says right there she came in through the basement.
There is no basement.
She'd have had to come up river, use a boat.
Thank you.
Cheers.
Toby?
Oh, not now, Jim.
Come here.
I want to show you something.
Now, look at that, and that, and that there.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hello?
Hello?
[KNOCKING]
Hi.
[INAUDIBLE] I, uh--
get here a little early today?
No.
One thing about you, you've been great timing.
[LAUGHING]
Would you like a drink? - Coffee.
Uh-- yeah, there's some on.
Uh-- would you give me just a minute?
Mm.
That lead you mentioned on the phone, what about it?
What lead?
Damn it, Toby, if you got me up here on some kind
of wild goose chase--
When you got angry, your eye, that one, begins to twitch.
Did you know that?
I know that.
Relax.
There's a folder on my desk I think
you'll find very interesting.
Thank you.
Jim Maxwell spotted it first.
Do you see what they have in common?
Uh-huh.
This, uh-- crazy car. TOBY: Right.
We checked the photos of all the fires
to see if it turned up again.
It did.
And so did someone else.
The same face at three of the fires.
It could be the driver.
I don't suppose there's any point in asking who he is?
Hm-mm.
But maybe we could trace the car.
I doubt it.
I can't make out the registration
number on any of these and there must be hundreds of them
around. I better get Herman in on this.
Mm.
I'll fix the coffee.
Inspector Herman, please?
Oh. This is Quentin Barnaby.
You tell him I called, all right?
Somebody steal your engine?
What's the trouble?
Sabotage.
You're kidding.
They didn't get cut by themselves.
Well, look, I'll give you a lift home.
Thanks.
I'll have it picked up in the morning.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
I don't get it.
Why would anybody want to put your car out of action?
I don't know.
Care for a night cap?
I think I've had it for tonight.
You sure?
I'm sure.
Thanks for the lift.
Bye.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[WATER BUBBLING]
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
Hello?
TOBY (ON PHONE): Quentin, it's Toby.
What can I do for you?
TOBY (ON PHONE): Well, when I got
back, somebody had broken in.
Touche.
TOBY (ON PHONE): What?
Look, just sit tight, huh? Don't touch anything.
I'll be right over.
Hope you're insured.
No, I'm not.
Anything missing?
Nothing as far as I can tell.
How do you suppose they got in?
The fire escape.
I left it open.
Quentin, there is something missing.
What?
Those pictures I showed you earlier, the ones of the man
and the car, they're gone.
Anybody else know about these?
Only Maxwell.
I know he wouldn't take it.
He can print up a set of his own.
Of course.
You got his address?
Yeah.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[DOORBELL]
You got a minute?
I'd like to talk to you. - Yeah, sure.
Come in.
Well, anybody can see what you do for a living.
It's more than a living.
They look very good.
Very good.
I think you really captured here there.
Thank you. Thank you very much.
Yeah, I think so.
Mind you, that's the only way with people.
It's, uh-- it's called the unguarded moment.
It's like a third eye.
You have to act quickly, like a voyeur.
I hadn't seen these before.
Would you like some tea?
No, thank you.
That um-- set of photographs you gave Toby,
you show them to anybody else?
No.
Why?
They disappeared from her apartment this evening.
Well, I shouldn't worry about that.
Its' easy enough to print up another set.
Good.
While you're at it, would you mind doing a-- a complete set?
You know, all the stuff from the recent fires.
Never can tell, we may find something else.
Yeah, sure.
Sure.
You can have them first thing in the morning.
I'll have Val pick them up.
OK.
I'll see myself out.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
- Quen? - Where is it?
It's over here.
[KNOCKING]
Hello?
That almost looks as if it could be the Routledge Wine Company.
And that's not all.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hello.
[INAUDIBLE] Sorry, I wasn't here to [INAUDIBLE] you aboard.
Yeah, well, we-- [INAUDIBLE]
Open day and night. Customers always welcome.
You are prospective customers, aren't you?
Yes.
Well, George Roscoe is the name.
Quintin Barnaby.
This is Valerie Chrane.
Nice to meet you.
Uh-- cup of tea?
Uh-- no-- no, thanks.
I'm sorry--sorry.
The place is a bit of a mess.
I'm on my fire kick at the moment.
A bit Freudian, isn't it?
Look at that one.
You can feel the heat in that.
It's one way to save on fuel bills.
What? [INTERPOSING VOICES]
[LAUGHING] - Oh, yes.
Yes. Yes.
Oh, I find it a fascinating subject, fire.
How did you manage to get started?
Well, just seemed to kindle the--
[LAUGHING]
Kindle.
No, no, no, I find it sort of stimulating and compelling.
I just-- just have to hear fire bells and 1,000
pictures come into my mind.
You know, the lone figure at the-- wants to jump.
And then there's the ladders--
the towering ladders, and the miles of hose pipe, and the--
and the smoke, and the water, glint of the fireman's helmet.
Yeah.
Yes.
So I-- I just have to think of fire to get this overwhelming
urge to put it down on canvas.
Yeah.
It's the colors, the--
the harmonies, the-- the crimsons, and the--
the magentas, the-- the millions-- the millions--
oh, just love a good fire.
Uh-- painting them, I mean.
Yeah.
Well, you almost have enough here
to do a complete show on the subject,
providing you don't run out of fires.
Oh, no fear of that.
If there's a fire within a mile's radius,
I'll always be there. - How's that?
Hmm?
How is it you, uh-- always seem to manage to arrive
neck and neck with the Brigade?
You a policeman?
No.
But I can manage to call one, if you don't
give me a straight answer. - No.
No.
No need, no.
That's nice.
It's--
[DISPATCH RADIO CHATTER]
Simple.
Yes.
Mr. Roscoe, uh-- how much you asking for this?
- Seven. - Seven.
Seven.
I'll take it.
$70 guineas with the frame.
I'll take a check.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[CLATTERING]
[GASPS]
Boo.
There's nothing like coming into a nice, tidy office.
Thanks.
Well, what hit us, a hurricane?
It looks like it.
Well, what were they after?
It wasn't this.
Toby's apartment, now the office.
Don't forget my famous tea maker.
Any luck with that?
No.
No serial number, no hope.
Well, whoever broke in, must have been after something.
All I can think of are these.
Then how come they're still here?
I left them at Herman's office.
He had them dropped by this morning.
Is that a complete set?
No, it's just the exteriors.
If they wanted them his bad, I must have missed something.
Well, here's everything Maxwell took.
Spread them out on the floor, will you?
Mm.
[INAUDIBLE]
No, I'd hate to see you starve to death.
Well, considering I was up half the night--
[INTERPOSING VOICES] - Here.
There you go.
Maxwell give you a complete set?
Yes.
Not quite.
Well, they're all there, so he said.
No.
That's the Golden Toy Factory, isn't it?
Well, why should he hold that one back?
Give me the Brigade reports.
Mm?
Oh.
Oh, come in.
Remember these?
Oh, I see you've got yourself another set.
Yep.
The driver of that crazy car wasn't
the only one at every five.
There was someone else there too.
Well, if you're referring to me, it's my job, remember?
Toby, the night of the toy factory fire, who called you?
The news desk.
No, they didn't.
I checked.
They rang.
No one answered.
But I was here.
I remember, I--
Oh, no, wait, uh--
that's right.
Maxwell called me that night.
Well, so I assumed that they--
they called him first.
They didn't.
But he was there before the brigade.
- I don't follow you. - Here.
The alarm was turned in at 11:45.
Yeah?
Take a look at the clock.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[PHONE RINGING]
But why?
Why would he do it?
Could be dozens of reasons--
release of frustration, power, ambition, success.
Those pictures have carved quite a niche for him.
I should have realized that something was wrong.
Hey, no, no, don't you start blaming yourself now.
I mean, he's sick.
That didn't happen overnight.
The important thing now is to find him.
Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[DOORBELL]
Evening.
I was, uh-- just out and around, thought I'd return these.
Yeah, uh-- come in.
Would you like a drink?
Yeah, I'll have a vodka.
Were they very helpful?
Very.
I used them to help me assess the structural damage.
That's great.
For you.
Thank you.
You don't have any ice, do you?
Yeah.
Yeah, sure.
[CHIME]
Hey, so you're all set to go, huh?
Yeah.
Well, I, uh-- I never know when I'll get a call.
Yeah.
Do you, uh--
do you like those?
Yeah.
Very good.
Some are almost like paintings.
I understand you're up for some sort of award.
Where do you hear that?
I don't know.
Toby, apprentice one.
You mean the press award?
I
Think that's it.
Well, how about that?
Well, they're good.
I mean, you've got to admit, they're good.
Well, you had luck on your side, didn't you?
I mean-- - Luck?
Well, being at the right place, at the right time.
I happened to be there first.
That's what counts.
That's not luck.
[PHONE RINGING]
Excuse me.
Have a look at the rest.
Hello?
Maxwell, here.
Hello?
Ah, Toby.
Right.
Listen, the news desk just rang me.
There's been another fire.
There's another--
Well, look, I'll, uh--I'll meet you there, OK?
Yeah, fine.
We got trouble?
Yeah, there's a fire.
Mind if I ride along?
What time do you make it?
I got 11:40.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Sure you got the right address?
Yeah.
Strange, isn't it?
Let's have a look around the back.
Right.
Now you stay here.
Why?
Quen's orders.
Hello?
Give me Inspector Herman.
Hello, Inspector?
It's Val.
Yes, it worked.
Suitor Store.
Look, there's nothing here.
No?
There's no fire, so why hang about?
I'm going back to the car.
You're not going anywhere.
What's this?
I think you know.
I know what?
Where is it, Jim?
Where's what?
I don't know what you are talking about.
Don't you?
Then why'd you bring me here?
- Because, Toby rang. - I know.
- You were there. - Yeah.
She-- she said there was a fire.
She didn't say where, did she?
She didn't give you an address.
But you brought me right here.
Now where is the tea maker?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[EXPLOSION]
Quentin?
Quentin?
Quentin, where are you?
Toby, will you get out of here?
I'm not going to leave you here.
Then go down in the basement and turn on the sprinklers.
Come on, move.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[SIRENS]
It's in the back.
Get the rest of the pumps around to the side entrance.
Quentin!
Quentin!
Quentin!
Quentin!
Get back!
Go on back in there.
They're in there.
Right.
Come on.
Get the Renegade [INAUDIBLE]
Give me your hand.
OK.
You all right?
Yeah.
This way.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Put this around you.
Where's Maxwell?
I'll get the car.
Thank you.
Hey, I thought I told you to wait in the car?
You did.
Well, when are you going to learn to do what you're told?
How about right now?
All right.
Everybody, back.
Come on now, move a little, please.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Emergency-- which service, please?
Fire.
[ALARM BELL]
[SIRENS]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[INAUDIBLE] 246 to control.
Divisional officer Jarvis at Routledge
Wine Company in Denby Street.
Send turntable and for the bus.
Over.
Get the car back. Go on.
OK. Get back.
Everybody, back.
Come along, please.
Come along.
Everybody, back.
Please, back.
Everybody, please, back.
Come on now, move along.
Everybody, back.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Miss Collins?
Who cut this?
You or one of your subs?
Me.
Why?
The editors indecision is final, or didn't you know?
My copy read third city fire in 10 days.
It gets blue penciled.
Now, I'd just like to hear why.
Because of the implication.
What do you mean implication?
You implied that the fires were linked.
Well, the fires are linked.
Have you got proof?
No, not exactly.
Well, you get it and I'll print it.
Right.
I'll hold you to that.
These pictures are good.
Oh, well, thank you.
Relax, so is your story.
No one can write up a fire like you, Toby.
You and Maxwell are a great team.
He's got talent, that boy.
I'm the one that told you that, remember?
Don't tell him.
He's costing us a small fortune.
Offer him a contract.
Think he'll bite?
He might, with a little persuasion.
Then work on it.
Uh-uh, not me.
Do your own dirty work.
Toby?
You really think it's arson?
I should contact the insurance federation.
You're joking.
You know how they feel about the press.
Besides, you ever try to reach Quentin Barnaby?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Oh, good morning, Quen.
Well, uh-- you got those reports on Smith Street?
The cops are waiting for them.
Mm.
Shall I take your coat?
No, I won't be staying that long.
I want to get out of here before Carlton arrives.
Hurry up--
Uh-uh-- too late. He's in there waiting.
Let me get that.
Ah, Barnaby, have you seen this?
It's a great picture.
It's the Routledge Wine Company.
The whole shebang went up in smoke last night.
So I see.
It's covered by one of our companies.
You know that.
Global, isn't it?
Yeah.
Well, how did it start?
What have you found?
Carlton, I'm a fire investigator,
not a circus performer.
I don't go traipsing about burning buildings.
When the whole thing's over, out, kaput,
then I go into action.
You know what this will cost?
Break my heart.
Around $100,000 pounds.
That's a lot of wine.
CARLTON: Three fires in six days in a radius
of a couple of miles, it's statistically impossible.
The average for this area is one--
Every 58.2 days.
Then you'll agree, something smells.
It crossed my mind.
Well, why aren't you down there?
What are you doing here?
That's a good question, considering
I'm due at Brigade headquarters in, uh-- exactly six minutes.
All I really needed from the office was some reports.
You'll keep me informed.
In triplicate.
Thank you.
If you need me, I'll be with Jarvis.
Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Ground floor, please?
Yes, Mr. Barnaby.
We were called to Smith Street on the night
of the fourth, an importing company, books mainly.
They said the basement was damp.
Well, I don't need to tell you, damp paper
can heat up like a haystack.
We can't be sure, but it looked like spontaneous combustion.
Where do you think it started?
Oh, in the basement, with the magazines--
made a lovely bonfire.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
We were called to this one at 11:40 last night.
But don't ask how it started.
We haven't a clue.
Who turned in the alarm?
A couple of kids.
That's Routledge, the owner.
Got it.
RADIO DISPATCH: 16-- return to HQ.
Yes, right.
I'm wanted at HQ.
I'd like those brigade reports.
I'll send them over.
Now, take it easy.
That place is a death trap.
Oh, [INAUDIBLE] a great claret.
My grandfather laid that down at the turn of the century--
irreplaceable.
How this happened is beyond me.
Fires don't just happen, Mr. Routledge.
As a matter of fact, I've never met one that didn't stem
from human error or weakness.
I fail to see what you'll glean from this one.
Well, you know, you never can tell.
Fires are a lot like women, most of them have a story to tell.
Take this one, for instance.
I'd say the fire started right in this area.
What makes you say that?
Well, the wood is more deeply charred.
And these ridges indicate intense heat.
Hmm.
I see.
Hi, Jim.
Oh, that's great.
It's beautiful.
Toby, you're too keen.
Don't you ever stop?
Life's so short.
That's what it will be if you don't let up.
What you need is a good night out.
With you?
Who else?
There.
What do you think?
I'm not mad about it.
No?
Have you seen Prentice?
Sure.
He and I fixed a deal.
He gets all of the [INAUDIBLE] rights.
I stay freelance and take the rest of the work.
Shrewd.
I think you've got an obsession.
You do, uh-- realize that you'll never,
ever do that again?
Do what?
Reach for that file.
Oh, come on now, I'm up there a dozen times a day.
Not any file.
I'm talking about that file.
The one you reached for at approximately 11:41,
with that tiny wisp of hair coming down,
and that carbon smudge on your left thumb.
[LAUGHING]
You don't understand, do you?
Look at that.
Now, that wall took six seconds to fall.
I got the picture.
No second chance.
No going back.
You either get it, or you don't.
And that's what I want, the spontaneity, the immediacy,
the frozen moment.
Well, you got it.
You sure?
Well, there, you might tell your friends
that I'm available for weddings, parties, and fires.
I'll do that.
Now, uh-- you don't mind if I get back to work?
No, no, no, please do.
Feel free.
Hi.
It's Miss Collins again.
No, don't tell me.
I know, Mr. Barnaby is still out.
They'll pay up one day, the insurance.
They pay me to investigate fires, Mr. Routledge,
not write checks.
Who locked up last night?
I did.
Anybody else have a key?
No.
Look, every penny I possess is tied up in my business.
Oh, I can sympathize, but that's not going
to help either one of us now.
Did you turn out the lights last night?
Yes, I turned them out myself.
And the lamp-- a desk lamp-- it was plugged in there.
Where?
Oh.
Ah, here it is.
Can I see it?
Here.
You have any other lamps down here?
No.
Any other appliances-- a fan, a heater?
Look, this is a wine cellar.
We don't use any heaters down here.
- Any staff trouble? - Trouble?
Oh, you know, the usual kind of thing.
A difference of opinion.
Sacked anybody lately?
No.
When's the last time you increased your insurance?
Now, look here, Barnaby, I hope you're not--
Please don't be upset.
I'm sure you don't buy wine without asking questions.
Where the vineyard is, the year, who the shipper was--
questions are part of my business too.
It's about, uh--
five years since I last increased the policy.
You can soon check.
Thank you.
I will.
I'm afraid I haven't been of much help to you.
But you have, Mr. Routledge.
You really have.
Interesting, isn't it?
MM.
Well, any child can see, that whatever's plugged in,
it wasn't this lamp.
I've been through that place with a sieve.
I couldn't find anything.
Then it must've been destroyed.
Or removed.
Removed?
Sure, after the fire.
By whom?
Now you're asking.
Have you checked the Routledge policy?
Yes, and the other two companies.
The owners are reputable.
The business is good.
I can't find any motive for arson.
Three major fires in six days.
Well, could it be coincidence?
Yeah, it could be.
And here's another one.
Look at the brigade call--
Smith Street, 11:36, Comms Lane, 11:43, Danby Street, 11:40.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[EXPLOSION]
[ALARM BELL]
[SIRENS]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Whose car is this?
Get it drifted back.
Someone take the wheel.
Park it over there.
Get another jet around the back.
How you doing?
Toby, I've got some great pictures.
Good. I'm going back to the office.
You coming?
No, I'm staying.
You [INAUDIBLE]
Right.
So, you still think it's a fire bug, eh?
I'm sure of it.
Nero rides again.
It's a good story.
Then print it.
Nothing I'd like better, when you have some proof.
Look.
There have been four major fires in one
area in less than two weeks.
Now, what more do you want?
Barnaby's confirmation would help.
Have you talked to him?
You find him, I'll talk to him.
Fin him?
What do you mean?
He was there.
Where?
At the fire.
Barnaby, that's him.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Quentin Barnaby?
Right.
Hi, I'm Toby Collins.
That sounds familiar.
I cover all the big fires for the, uh--
"Daily Express."
Ah, you're a reporter, huh?
Is that a look of surprise or disapproval?
Take your pick.
Excuse me, I have some work to do.
Uh-- look, I'll be brief and to the point.
Was it an accident or was it arson?
I make it a rule never to talk to reporters.
Why not?
Call it experience.
Now, if you'll forgive me.
I'm very persistent.
So am I.
But look, I think I can help you.
Good day, Miss Collins.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Yeah, but if you could talk.
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[GLASS BREAKING]
[KIDS YELLING]
QUENTIN: Hey, you kids?
[KIDS CHATTERING]
It's identical to the Routledge fire.
We can forget about coincidence, can't we?
Yeah.
Oh, before I forget, you've got a visitor.
Carlton?
Herman.
So soon.
What it is to be creative.
Just imagine the agony, the torture, the suffering
that went into this.
Every line is so full of meaning.
What is it?
I use it as a paperweight.
Oh, you know, sometimes I think
I'm in the wrong business.
You're also in the wrong chair.
20 years on the force and what do I got to show for it?
An office the size of your desk, an ulcer like Vesuvius.
Big fat pension.
But will I live to see it?
Cigarette?
Surely.
Help yourself.
Ah, that's nice.
Mm.
Well, to what do I owe the pleasure of this visit?
Arson is my baby to, remember?
Oh, who said anything about arson?
If it wasn't, you wouldn't have been there.
Well, Jarvis called.
It spread too fast.
Look, ever since this came out,
my phone hasn't stopped ringing.
Everyone asking for protection.
They thing there's a fire bug loose.
You've been reading Toby Collins again.
You know women. - Sure, and I know you.
If you were there, something's up.
Sid, would I keep anything from you?
Listen, insurance is your line.
Fire bugs are mine.
If anything turns up, you know the routine.
I know the routine.
- Any luck? - This is impossible.
The wine company was full of spirits
and the toy factory was full of solvents.
It ruins any analysis.
Afraid I can't help in that direction.
You check the switch?
Huh?
Yes, it's 15 amp, in good condition.
But, genius that I am, don't ask me what was plugged in.
Of course, if you want my personal opinion--
I'd love your personal opinion.
Give me a personal opinion.
Someone went in after the fire and removed
whatever was connected.
Mm-mm.
I checked.
Nobody went near the place.
Well, who took that?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell took it.
And Toby wrote the story.
But if you're not happy about it, don't blame her.
You wouldn't talk to her.
There's nothing to talk about.
Oh, Barnaby, you're the top investigator.
You know it's a fire bug.
Or do I quote you as saying, it's just coincidence.
You don't quote me.
Hmm.
It's some nut case-- must be.
Toby had a hunch right from the word go.
Really?
Right from the word go, huh?
Yeah, right from the beginning.
Well, you know women.
I have known a few, but not with that kind of intuition.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[KNOCKING]
Well, is that a look of surprise or disapproval?
Take your choice.
Can I come in?
Do.
But I should warn you, I make it a rule never
to talk to fire investigators.
That hurt.
It was meant to.
Want a drink?
Yeah, I'll have a scotch.
Any rules about it?
Mm-hmm.
Put her in the glass and leave it alone.
OK.
You know, for a reporter, you're not very curious.
Aren't you even wondering why I'm here?
Well, it's, um--
perfectly obvious.
You find me utterly irresistible.
I'm an open book.
Well, I read your article.
And--
I sure would like to know your source of information, lady.
Well, some of my best friends are fire bugs.
You ought to be careful.
They can be unpredictable and deadly dangerous.
- No. - Mm-hmm.
Really.
I recall one woman who set fire to a place
just because she liked bright colors.
And wasn't there a man that burnt down a restaurant
because the put onions on his burger?
Yeah. Frustration.
Mm.
That's usually at the bottom of it.
Show me a person that's all screwed up inside
and I'll show you a potential fire bug.
It's a screwy business.
You chose it.
Yeah, I started out as an engineer.
And I sold insurance.
I was even a cop for a while.
But nothing gelled until I put all my famous talents together
and here I am.
About to give me the third degree.
You were at all recent fires, weren't you?
Mm-hmm.
Aside from firemen, photographers, reporters,
you notice anybody else come and go.
No, not that I recall.
What made you think it was a fire bug?
Well, look at the figures.
Four fires in nine days.
Just a hunch, huh?
No, not exactly.
Do you have your car?
Mm-hmm.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Pull up here.
The wine company's around the next corner.
I know that, but stop here.
All very nice, very cozy, but there's no bar, no fireplace--
Look.
And a broken telephone.
Well, kids, vandals--
Think so?
Come on.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Thank you.
Now what do you say?
It could still be vandals.
Well, all the other phones are working around here.
If you ask me, someone deliberately
wrecked these phones to delay the brigade.
[PHONE RINGING]
Quentin Barnaby's office.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Put me through to him, will you?
I'm afraid he is not in.
If you care to leave your name.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): You must think I'm crazy.
Well, I'm not, see.
I started those fires.
I beg your pardon.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
You heard me, I started those fires.
I could burn down the whole city if I wanted to,
and maybe I will.
Ha, ha, maybe I will.
Not much to go on, is it?
What time did it come in?
Uh-- 4:20.
I'll call the telephone people.
If she comes through again, keep her talking.
With luck, we might be able to trace it.
Right.
Tell me, Quentin, how old would you say she was?
Hell, I don't know, late 20's?
Hmm.
Great stuff.
Barnaby will love you for it.
How did you get onto it?
Every time I went to phone in my story,
I found the phone wrecked.
The second time, got me to thinking, and the third time,
I saw day light.
You should have told the police.
Aren't you glad I didn't.
Huh?
This way, Barnaby owes me a favor.
He'll come around next time.
Next time-- there isn't going to be any next time.
There will be.
Toby?
I know you're very anxious to get another story,
but you wouldn't start another fire to get it, would you?
That's quite an idea.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[GLASS BREAKING]
[WINDOW RATTLING]
[EXPLOSION]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[LAUGHING]
Hey.
Look what I see.
Watch out, man.
Look.
Oh, hands off.
Hey, cool it.
No, look.
What do know, we made it.
Satan is here.
[CHEERING]
[SIRENS]
Echo 246 to control.
Assistance required.
More than four.
Send fire folks.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hey.
Well, am I prophet, or am I prophet?
Looks like you're a prophet.
Come on.
[COUGHING]
MAN: Help!
Up here.
Jim, listen, I've got a great idea.
There's somebody up there.
Jim?
Jim, what are you doing?
Get out of the way.
I've got to get up there.
Jim, come down from there.
Quentin, Jim's going inside the building.
- What? - Yes, come on.
There.
Find Jarvis.
TOBY: Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell?
Maxwell?
Maxwell?
[INAUDIBLE]
Are you crazy, man?
What the hell do you think you're doing?
There's somebody in here.
MAN: Help.
What did I tell you.
Blimey.
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
Come on, move!
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[WHISTLE]
hey!
Hey!
[WHISTLE]
Hey!
Hey!
Come on, get the ladder up to him.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
What are we going to do?
Come on.
After you.
No, after you.
Don't look down.
I got some pictures.
Are they worth getting pneumonia for?
Yeah, this is waterproof.
Oh.
You OK?
Yeah, it only hurts when I trip.
Oh, you know you really had me scared.
Can't imagine why.
Can't you?
JIM: Toby, let's go.
You sure you're all right?
Oh, yeah, sure.
You ought to get out of those clothes.
Come on, come on, we've got a deadline.
I'll call you.
Thank you.
I thought I'd seen the last of you.
What?
Me leave without signing your paycheck?
When I was in there, I--
I noticed something I think will interest you.
What?
A kind of smell, like perfume.
Perfume?
Mm-hmm.
When this out, I want the whole area roped off.
Nobody going in ahead of me this time.
Come on.
Nothing like starting at the top.
I'll cover this floor.
You take the one below.
OK.
Have you found anything? - No, nothing.
Ugh, yuck.
Look.
You take that area over there.
If you find a plug or a socket-- - yell.
Right.
Val?
What is it?
Have you found something?
Whatever was attached to this, had
to fall somewhere in this area.
You take that side and I'll take this.
OK.
Quent, I found something.
What have you got?
Look out.
Ah.
Val?
Val?
Yes?
- You all right? - Yes.
You sure?
Yes, I'm fine.
QUENTIN: What did you find?
You'll think I'm crazy, but it looked to me like a tea maker.
Let's have a look.
- Here's the wire. - All right.
Let's clear it up.
Ooh.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
It's gone.
[NOISE]
How did you get past the policeman?
Uh-- press card, a smile, and my little girl, lost look.
Something wrong?
Oh, I see you're busy.
Call me.
Let's go back to the place we found the tea maker.
I'd like to collect some samples of ash.
Good idea.
How's the watchman?
Well, he's got a bad concussion.
I don't think we'll get anything out of him for a while.
Oh, it's amazing how some liquids remain stable,
no matter what you do to them.
It is, isn't it?
You've got something you'd like to tell me, in, you know,
words of two syllables or less?
Actually, it's eight--
polyvinylpyrrolidone.
Oh, that's beautiful.
Wow.
Now, if you tell me what it means,
I might let you teach me how to spell it.
Well, it's mainly used in hair lacquer--
highly inflammable.
And that's what I found on the watch men's clothes.
If your idea about the tea maker's right,
that could've gone into the pot.
Set the alarm.
When the time is right, boom.
It's a big step up in a candle and wood shavings.
You think you can pinpoint the brand?
I might, with a fair sample.
Not from these few traces. - Hair lacquer, huh?
Only one person I know who uses that stuff.
Oh, I just love you.
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Mr. Barnaby's office?
Quen, it's her, that woman.
Hang up.
What?
But you said keep her talking.
She'll be on again.
We need to buy all the time we can.
[PHONE RINGING]
Peters here.
Yeah, this is Barnaby.
She's been on.
Standby.
I think she'll call again.
Right. OK.
Standby.
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Is that Quentin Barnaby?
She's on.
Right. OK.
Let's go.
Hang on, will you please?
Uh-- I won't keep you long.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Oh, all right.
Miss Chrane, uh--
I want that memo sent out this afternoon, and copies
to all the directors, and--
Yes, Mr. Barnaby.
Anything else?
No, not that I can think of.
That will be all, Miss Chrane.
Right, Mr. Barnaby.
Sorry to have kept you.
WOMAN (ON PHONE): I've been reading about you, Mr. Barnaby.
Really?
Thank you.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
You're kidding.
Every single fire?
WOMAN (ON PHONE): Yes, every single fire.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Maxwell, tell me where I can find Toby.
Uh-- yeah, down there, turn left, in that door.
Thanks.
[KNOCKING]
Well, well, well, into the spider's fire.
You're running a risk, aren't you?
Oh, I don't know.
I thought if I put on my little boy lost look,
you'd come to my assistance.
I need some help.
You know my terms.
I'm serious.
Well, so am I.
Oh, come on, you can do better than that.
Now, what can I do for you?
You have a picture library.
The best in Fleet Street.
I need some stills of all the recent fires.
Mm.
Anything special?
Yeah, exteriors of the buildings, close stuff.
May one ask why?
For insurance claims--
helps to assess the damage.
Ah.
Oh, I think I can manage that.
Hang on.
Oh.
Toby, what time should I pick you up?
What?
Well, for dinner.
We've got a date, remember? - You're kidding.
We didn't make any definite plans.
Just a minute.
We have.
Two seats for a concert, then dinner.
- Jim, we didn't make any plans. - It's all arranged.
Look, I'm sorry, but, uh--
I was up till 4:00 this morning.
I'm really beat.
We'll do it another night.
OK?
That's great.
Thank you.
I said I'm sorry.
Look, I got go.
I'm in a hurry.
Where are you going with those?
Oh, uh-- Quentin dropped by.
Uh-- he needs them for something.
I think it's in insurance.
- I see. - See you.
Yeah.
[INAUDIBLE]
[MUSIC PLAYING]
So she confessed, this caller.
Yes, she confessed.
To all of the fires.
Each and every one.
Plus 20 others.
I don't believe it.
Here.
She's crazy.
She ought to be locked up.
She has been, on at least three separate occasions.
Her name is Edwards.
We call her Edwards the Confessor.
What?
Someone robs a bank, she confesses.
Someone commits a murder, she did it.
You sure? I mean, couldn't the--
Read the report.
It says right there she came in through the basement.
There is no basement.
She'd have had to come up river, use a boat.
Thank you.
Cheers.
Toby?
Oh, not now, Jim.
Come here.
I want to show you something.
Now, look at that, and that, and that there.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hello?
Hello?
[KNOCKING]
Hi.
[INAUDIBLE] I, uh--
get here a little early today?
No.
One thing about you, you've been great timing.
[LAUGHING]
Would you like a drink? - Coffee.
Uh-- yeah, there's some on.
Uh-- would you give me just a minute?
Mm.
That lead you mentioned on the phone, what about it?
What lead?
Damn it, Toby, if you got me up here on some kind
of wild goose chase--
When you got angry, your eye, that one, begins to twitch.
Did you know that?
I know that.
Relax.
There's a folder on my desk I think
you'll find very interesting.
Thank you.
Jim Maxwell spotted it first.
Do you see what they have in common?
Uh-huh.
This, uh-- crazy car. TOBY: Right.
We checked the photos of all the fires
to see if it turned up again.
It did.
And so did someone else.
The same face at three of the fires.
It could be the driver.
I don't suppose there's any point in asking who he is?
Hm-mm.
But maybe we could trace the car.
I doubt it.
I can't make out the registration
number on any of these and there must be hundreds of them
around. I better get Herman in on this.
Mm.
I'll fix the coffee.
Inspector Herman, please?
Oh. This is Quentin Barnaby.
You tell him I called, all right?
Somebody steal your engine?
What's the trouble?
Sabotage.
You're kidding.
They didn't get cut by themselves.
Well, look, I'll give you a lift home.
Thanks.
I'll have it picked up in the morning.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
I don't get it.
Why would anybody want to put your car out of action?
I don't know.
Care for a night cap?
I think I've had it for tonight.
You sure?
I'm sure.
Thanks for the lift.
Bye.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[WATER BUBBLING]
[PHONE RINGING]
Hello?
Hello?
TOBY (ON PHONE): Quentin, it's Toby.
What can I do for you?
TOBY (ON PHONE): Well, when I got
back, somebody had broken in.
Touche.
TOBY (ON PHONE): What?
Look, just sit tight, huh? Don't touch anything.
I'll be right over.
Hope you're insured.
No, I'm not.
Anything missing?
Nothing as far as I can tell.
How do you suppose they got in?
The fire escape.
I left it open.
Quentin, there is something missing.
What?
Those pictures I showed you earlier, the ones of the man
and the car, they're gone.
Anybody else know about these?
Only Maxwell.
I know he wouldn't take it.
He can print up a set of his own.
Of course.
You got his address?
Yeah.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[DOORBELL]
You got a minute?
I'd like to talk to you. - Yeah, sure.
Come in.
Well, anybody can see what you do for a living.
It's more than a living.
They look very good.
Very good.
I think you really captured here there.
Thank you. Thank you very much.
Yeah, I think so.
Mind you, that's the only way with people.
It's, uh-- it's called the unguarded moment.
It's like a third eye.
You have to act quickly, like a voyeur.
I hadn't seen these before.
Would you like some tea?
No, thank you.
That um-- set of photographs you gave Toby,
you show them to anybody else?
No.
Why?
They disappeared from her apartment this evening.
Well, I shouldn't worry about that.
Its' easy enough to print up another set.
Good.
While you're at it, would you mind doing a-- a complete set?
You know, all the stuff from the recent fires.
Never can tell, we may find something else.
Yeah, sure.
Sure.
You can have them first thing in the morning.
I'll have Val pick them up.
OK.
I'll see myself out.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
- Quen? - Where is it?
It's over here.
[KNOCKING]
Hello?
That almost looks as if it could be the Routledge Wine Company.
And that's not all.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Hello.
[INAUDIBLE] Sorry, I wasn't here to [INAUDIBLE] you aboard.
Yeah, well, we-- [INAUDIBLE]
Open day and night. Customers always welcome.
You are prospective customers, aren't you?
Yes.
Well, George Roscoe is the name.
Quintin Barnaby.
This is Valerie Chrane.
Nice to meet you.
Uh-- cup of tea?
Uh-- no-- no, thanks.
I'm sorry--sorry.
The place is a bit of a mess.
I'm on my fire kick at the moment.
A bit Freudian, isn't it?
Look at that one.
You can feel the heat in that.
It's one way to save on fuel bills.
What? [INTERPOSING VOICES]
[LAUGHING] - Oh, yes.
Yes. Yes.
Oh, I find it a fascinating subject, fire.
How did you manage to get started?
Well, just seemed to kindle the--
[LAUGHING]
Kindle.
No, no, no, I find it sort of stimulating and compelling.
I just-- just have to hear fire bells and 1,000
pictures come into my mind.
You know, the lone figure at the-- wants to jump.
And then there's the ladders--
the towering ladders, and the miles of hose pipe, and the--
and the smoke, and the water, glint of the fireman's helmet.
Yeah.
Yes.
So I-- I just have to think of fire to get this overwhelming
urge to put it down on canvas.
Yeah.
It's the colors, the--
the harmonies, the-- the crimsons, and the--
the magentas, the-- the millions-- the millions--
oh, just love a good fire.
Uh-- painting them, I mean.
Yeah.
Well, you almost have enough here
to do a complete show on the subject,
providing you don't run out of fires.
Oh, no fear of that.
If there's a fire within a mile's radius,
I'll always be there. - How's that?
Hmm?
How is it you, uh-- always seem to manage to arrive
neck and neck with the Brigade?
You a policeman?
No.
But I can manage to call one, if you don't
give me a straight answer. - No.
No.
No need, no.
That's nice.
It's--
[DISPATCH RADIO CHATTER]
Simple.
Yes.
Mr. Roscoe, uh-- how much you asking for this?
- Seven. - Seven.
Seven.
I'll take it.
$70 guineas with the frame.
I'll take a check.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[CLATTERING]
[GASPS]
Boo.
There's nothing like coming into a nice, tidy office.
Thanks.
Well, what hit us, a hurricane?
It looks like it.
Well, what were they after?
It wasn't this.
Toby's apartment, now the office.
Don't forget my famous tea maker.
Any luck with that?
No.
No serial number, no hope.
Well, whoever broke in, must have been after something.
All I can think of are these.
Then how come they're still here?
I left them at Herman's office.
He had them dropped by this morning.
Is that a complete set?
No, it's just the exteriors.
If they wanted them his bad, I must have missed something.
Well, here's everything Maxwell took.
Spread them out on the floor, will you?
Mm.
[INAUDIBLE]
No, I'd hate to see you starve to death.
Well, considering I was up half the night--
[INTERPOSING VOICES] - Here.
There you go.
Maxwell give you a complete set?
Yes.
Not quite.
Well, they're all there, so he said.
No.
That's the Golden Toy Factory, isn't it?
Well, why should he hold that one back?
Give me the Brigade reports.
Mm?
Oh.
Oh, come in.
Remember these?
Oh, I see you've got yourself another set.
Yep.
The driver of that crazy car wasn't
the only one at every five.
There was someone else there too.
Well, if you're referring to me, it's my job, remember?
Toby, the night of the toy factory fire, who called you?
The news desk.
No, they didn't.
I checked.
They rang.
No one answered.
But I was here.
I remember, I--
Oh, no, wait, uh--
that's right.
Maxwell called me that night.
Well, so I assumed that they--
they called him first.
They didn't.
But he was there before the brigade.
- I don't follow you. - Here.
The alarm was turned in at 11:45.
Yeah?
Take a look at the clock.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[PHONE RINGING]
But why?
Why would he do it?
Could be dozens of reasons--
release of frustration, power, ambition, success.
Those pictures have carved quite a niche for him.
I should have realized that something was wrong.
Hey, no, no, don't you start blaming yourself now.
I mean, he's sick.
That didn't happen overnight.
The important thing now is to find him.
Right.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[DOORBELL]
Evening.
I was, uh-- just out and around, thought I'd return these.
Yeah, uh-- come in.
Would you like a drink?
Yeah, I'll have a vodka.
Were they very helpful?
Very.
I used them to help me assess the structural damage.
That's great.
For you.
Thank you.
You don't have any ice, do you?
Yeah.
Yeah, sure.
[CHIME]
Hey, so you're all set to go, huh?
Yeah.
Well, I, uh-- I never know when I'll get a call.
Yeah.
Do you, uh--
do you like those?
Yeah.
Very good.
Some are almost like paintings.
I understand you're up for some sort of award.
Where do you hear that?
I don't know.
Toby, apprentice one.
You mean the press award?
I
Think that's it.
Well, how about that?
Well, they're good.
I mean, you've got to admit, they're good.
Well, you had luck on your side, didn't you?
I mean-- - Luck?
Well, being at the right place, at the right time.
I happened to be there first.
That's what counts.
That's not luck.
[PHONE RINGING]
Excuse me.
Have a look at the rest.
Hello?
Maxwell, here.
Hello?
Ah, Toby.
Right.
Listen, the news desk just rang me.
There's been another fire.
There's another--
Well, look, I'll, uh--I'll meet you there, OK?
Yeah, fine.
We got trouble?
Yeah, there's a fire.
Mind if I ride along?
What time do you make it?
I got 11:40.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Sure you got the right address?
Yeah.
Strange, isn't it?
Let's have a look around the back.
Right.
Now you stay here.
Why?
Quen's orders.
Hello?
Give me Inspector Herman.
Hello, Inspector?
It's Val.
Yes, it worked.
Suitor Store.
Look, there's nothing here.
No?
There's no fire, so why hang about?
I'm going back to the car.
You're not going anywhere.
What's this?
I think you know.
I know what?
Where is it, Jim?
Where's what?
I don't know what you are talking about.
Don't you?
Then why'd you bring me here?
- Because, Toby rang. - I know.
- You were there. - Yeah.
She-- she said there was a fire.
She didn't say where, did she?
She didn't give you an address.
But you brought me right here.
Now where is the tea maker?
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[INAUDIBLE]
[INAUDIBLE]
[EXPLOSION]
Quentin?
Quentin?
Quentin, where are you?
Toby, will you get out of here?
I'm not going to leave you here.
Then go down in the basement and turn on the sprinklers.
Come on, move.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
[SIRENS]
It's in the back.
Get the rest of the pumps around to the side entrance.
Quentin!
Quentin!
Quentin!
Quentin!
Get back!
Go on back in there.
They're in there.
Right.
Come on.
Get the Renegade [INAUDIBLE]
Give me your hand.
OK.
You all right?
Yeah.
This way.
[MUSIC PLAYING]
Put this around you.
Where's Maxwell?
I'll get the car.
Thank you.
Hey, I thought I told you to wait in the car?
You did.
Well, when are you going to learn to do what you're told?
How about right now?
All right.
Everybody, back.
Come on now, move a little, please.
[MUSIC PLAYING]