Midsomer Murders (1997–…): Season 9, Episode 2 - Dead Letters - full transcript
Barnaby and Jones investigate a series of murders linked to the death of a beauty queen which occurred several years previously.
WOMAN: You know you've got to do it.
She'd want that, wouldn't she?
You know she would.
So now's the time, isn't it?
You must do it now, for her sake.
You know she's waiting for you.
Waiting...
Waiting...
Waiting for you to join her.
So don't keep her waiting too long.
Waiting... Waiting for you to join
her.
Do it now.
Do it now!
Come on
MAN: One, two, one, two.
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.
What a lovely bright morning it is.
Aren't we lucky?
We hope you'll support all the many
and varied events throughout the
week,
and give generously.
I'm sure you'll join me in thanking
all the hard working committee
members
who've helped to prepare this year's
Oak Apple celebrations.
Get off, you sod
Ha ha ha!
Ha ha!
Right, I'm going to thump you.
Ha ha ha ha!
Look.
Hello, Colin.
Good luck, Katrina
Yes!
Yes!
Thank you, gents. Up on the
platform, quick as you can.
And go easy with the trophies.
Hi, Mr Starkey.
Oh! Hello, Vicky.
I love the jacket.
Thank you.
(ALL GIGGLE)
Cheeky cow.
SIRENS
Is that a siren?
If that's an emergency, then I'm not
available
Surgery's closed.
Police car.
Another one of these, please.
What are you doing for the carnival
procession this year, Doctor?
Nothing.
But if you want to go as Lady
I'd like that.
My hair's too short.
It's not your hair I'll be looking
at.
Thank you.
Log that. Some kids found her, sir.
They stopped a local farmer who was
passing by.
He pulled her out of the water.
What was his name?
The farmer.
Mark Castle
He knew her, so he gave the
investigating officers an ID.
Her name's Marion Slade, lived
locally.
Family.
Apparently, she lived alone
Where exactly?
Um, about a quarter of a mile away.
What is that racket?
That's Oak Apple Week, sir.
It's what?
They celebrate it every year
They know how to have a good time in
Midsomer Barton.
Why is she wearing a nightdress?
The crescendo starts at bar six, so
just ease into that.
You're rushing it a bit. Let's go
back to the beginning,
and keep it steady.
That's it.
You're feeling it
Good.
(HUMS)
I shouldn't think anyone saw her
leave the place, sir.
It's a bit isolated.
It's quite a distance from the stream
too.
Who's the nearest neighbours?
There's some stables just along the
lane.
Detective Constable Jones. This is
DCI Barnaby.
Afternoon
Oh...
Is something wrong, only I'm busy?
It's about your neighbour in Candle
Marion Slade?
Yes, that's the lady.
When did you last see her?
Uh, I'm not sure. A few days ago, I
think, maybe.
I forget Why, what is this?
I'm afraid Marion Slade is dead
What?
And your name is...?
Starkey. Grace Starkey.
Marion's dead?
I don't believe it. How?
Was she a friend of yours?
No. Well, we passed the time of day
if we saw each other.
My husband knew her more than I did.
Is he at home?
During Oak Apple Week? That's hardly
likely.
He's on the village green helping to
run things as usual.
You can't miss him he's the one
with the fixed smile and stupid
jacket.
Nice day like this, I'm surprised
you're not down there with him.
(LAUGHS)
I've got better things to do.
Nice to see our new Carnival Queen
here today.
You'll be able to see Vicky looking
even more beautiful
on Saturday as the star of our grand
carnival procession.
Get on with it.
And now, for the final event of the
morning...
( GASPS)
It's the nine and under fancy dress
competition.
Boys and girls, come on down.
Sponsored by Harrison's
electrical store in association
with Cowleaze Dairy.
Little Phoebe and her mates had been
playing by the stream.
They called me over.
As soon as I got down into the water
I could see it was Marion.
Poor woman.
Did you know her?
Not that well. She didn't mix that
much. Don't think she liked anyone.
Rob knew her.
Who's Rob?
Rob Pride. He works here part time.
Does a bit of gardening for her.
Any idea where we can find him?
He'll be up at Parson's Field
Here, Sadie. Fix it here.
So, how long had she been in the
stream for?
Most of the night, we think
So, what's this going to be?
It's our carnival float, isn't it?
It's going to be our farm, winter
and summer.
Mm.
This is the snow.
Amazing.
It looks just like the real thing.
Mr Pride?
Causton CID
Is this about Mrs Slade?
Yes. Marion Slade of Candle Cottage.
So, it's true?
How did you hear about it?
Mark told me.
I thought it was one of his jokes.
Would that be Mark Castle, the
farmer?
Yes.
Why? Why would he joke about
something like that?
He's got an odd sense of humour,
especially when he's angry.
We thought it all looked so idyllic
up there at the farm.
It is, when he's not drinking.
When did you last see Mrs Slade?
I was tidying her garden.
Yeah.
No, actually. She seemed...distant.
A bit out of it.
Did she say why?
None of my business I just do the
garden
How long have you known her?
Quite a while.
I went to school with her daughter
Bella.
Thank you, Mr Pride.
Thanks very much.
If you wouldn't mind
don't tell Mark about what I said.
He tends to take things the wrong
way.
Thank you.
Hello, Mrs Starkey.
Hello, Alistair. Been a few coppers
around this morning.
Any idea what it's all about?
Marion Slade. She's drowned,
apparently.
Drowned?
Where?
They found her in the stream.
APPLAUSE
Well done.
Well done, Darren.
our prize winning hedgehog.
Don't forget to put a saucer of milk
out for him tonight
Wrong.
Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen.
(IN IRRITATED TONE) Yes, Ursula?
It must be goat's milk, or it'll
kill him.
Goat's milk...
On a more serious note,
I've just been informed by our
senior judge
that if you are putting milk out for
a hedgehog
it should apparently be goat's milk.
I used to come here when I was a
kid.
Did you?
Hi, girls.
Watch that waistline, Vicky.
Our next prize winner in the nine
and under class
is our busy buzzing bumble bee
Phoebe Berry!
Oh, Phoebe!
What a lovely costume.
PHOEBE: Thank you.
Thank you, dear. Well done.
Ma, I don't know what the village is
coming to.
What do you mean?
Haven't you noticed?
Police everywhere.
And guess what...
Marion Slade, she's dead.
The next prize winner, for third
place, goes to the Queen of Hearts.
Good God.
Anything wrong, sir?
You see those two on the stage?
Lady with the red hat, and fella with
the ponytail.
I could swear I've met them before
some years ago.
But that's not possible.
Why?
Well, because the people I knew...
were both brutally murdered.
Did you know her well, Mr Starkey?
Yes.
We often chatted
I seem to have been one of the few
she confided in.
She didn't trust people.
It was an accident, was it?
Why do you ask that?
Well...
just lately she seemed quite
depressed
because of her daughter.
What about her daughter?
She died eight years ago.
She was only 16.
Her daughter's name?
Bella.
Very delicate girl, but...
so beautiful.
She made a wonderful carnival queen.
Best we'd ever had.
And up until now,
out of respect for Marion,
we dropped that particular event
from the festivities.
Up until now?
Yes. This year we decided to
reinstate it.
Who's the "we", sir?
The Oak Apple Committee.
And how did Marion react to that?
She was against it at first,
but someone put pressure on her.
If only she'd talked to me
So, what else do you do for a
living?
Oh, a bit of DJ-ing here and there.
Local radio.
I'm also a children's entertainer.
Great
You can tell them, John, that it's a
sad business,
but the past is the past, and that
stupid woman
should have pulled herself together
before now.
Excuse me you are?
He will tell you, because my guess
is she planned to kill herself,
and she waited until today to ruin
our festivities.
Why? Why would she do that?
But she didn't succeed, did she?
Have you seen the turnout? It's
amazing.
That's Ursula. Ursula Gooding.
Chairwoman of the Committee.
And not a woman to be argued with.
That's right.
When she was giving out the prizes,
someone spoke to her,
a big fella with a ponytail.
Yes, that's her son. Alistair.
Mrs Gooding?
Mrs Gooding?
I'm Detective Chief Inspector
Barnaby.
We haven't met before, have we?
I don't think so, no
Are you from Midsomer Barton?
I've lived here most of my life.
Why? What's that got to do with
anything?
And about time!
I expected you half an hour ago.
Sorry, Mother. I was with a pupil.
Where's the car?
It's just over there.
Hello, there.
Sad news about Marion.
You should have come to the village
green today, Grace.
The kids did so well with their
fancy dress.
Anything wrong?
Yes! Everything is bloody wrong.
I've got too much to do here,
so instead of
pratting around dressed like an
idiot, you should be helping me!
Well, I've got my own job.
You call that a job?
There's only one breadwinner around
here.
Tomorrow's the day the villagers
gather in the green oak boughs.
But you like to do yours early.
That's right.
Marion Slade was not just my
patient.
She was a good friend.
When did you last see her?
She rang.
She was in a bit of a state.
She couldn't find her
tranquillisers.
Last night...
What time last night?
Nine. Nine thirty.
I asked her if it was urgent, but
she said not to worry.
She'd keep looking for the
tranquillisers.
And how did she sound?
Like I said, in a bit of a state.
She seemed tired.
Cigarette?
No, thank you.
How often was she prescribed these
tranquillisers?
I put her on a repeat prescription.
She'd been suffering from anxiety
and tension for some time.
Would you say she was a suicide risk?
The thought never crossed my mind.
Can you remember the last time that
she collected her prescription?
Uh... Well... Let's go and find out.
Thank you.
Was Marion Slade's daughter a
patient of yours as well?
Bella? Yes.
What did she die of?
Complications following food
poisoning.
Mind you, she was never well from
the start.
What was wrong with her?
Problem was poor response to
treatment due to allergic reactions.
Did you know Mr Slade?
No
Marion came here from
Gloucestershire after the divorce.
Bella would have been about two.
Here we are. Dirathene.
75mg collected from pharmacy Friday.
So, she would have had plenty left.
What effect would an overdose have?
Gradual unconsciousness, followed by
possible heart stoppage.
(SIGHS)
I was really pleased with today's
event.
(SIGHS)
Two of my little Acorns won prizes
It was a bloody awful day.
Oh, come on, Mother.
Policemen everywhere,
me with a headache.
All I wanted to do was come home
and rest.
Of course, you just have to be late
I couldn't help it.
Of course you could help it.
You just don't think things out.
Never have, never will.
Hell ooo!
(LAUGH) Alistair!
Hello, Ma.
Oh, do you want some supper, dear?
April, get him something to eat.
No, I'm OK.
Anyway, I'm taking you to that
meeting.
Oh, of course.
(LAUGHS)
Oh, dear...
At least YOU never keep me waiting.
Now, I think the prizes for this
year's carnival procession
should be as follows...
most topical entry,
best comic tableau.
That never works.
Why not?
Because no one's ever funny
They are when they try to be
serious.
The best floral entry, the best
adult fancy dress.
I think it would be a good idea
if we have a glamorous grandmother
event one year.
No, thank you.
They're asking about it in the bar.
Come on, now, Ron we don't want to
lower the tone.
Yeah. Have you seen
some of the so called glamorous
grandmas in this village?
They're like old slappers.
They're not the only ones. Now, can
we continue, please?
Now, then, how many carnival
princesses do we have?
Four.
And what are their names?
Hang on...
I've left the list in my car.
Typical.
Well, while we're waiting, I'll go
and get us some drinks.
Hey...
Not now. Ron...
I don't want him to see.
OK
Hi, John.
Oh...
Alistair.
How's my ma doing?
Fine.
Keeping you in order, is she?
Of course
Good.
Obviously someone has to.
(GIGGLES)
Ouch, that hurt!
Don't worry. I'm a doctor. I can
make it better.
Yes, I know you can make it better.
You always make it better.
You bastard.
My turn.
You just wield the bough.
I've spotted a lovely, low hanging
one here, girls.
It's a corker.
I'm going to cut it just...there.
You've got to do it in the right
place...
so you don't harm the tree.
Thank you, tree.
Always thank your tree
when you cut something off.
All right, girls, very good.
Keep up, Abigail.
There were traces of sedative in her
system a tranquilliser.
Was that Dirathene?
Yes
She was prescribed that.
She'd taken more than her prescribed
dose.
Nowhere near a fatal blood level,
but enough to make her quite drowsy.
She'd told the doctor she'd lost her
tablets.
Maybe they're at the bottom of that
stream.
Tell us about Dirathene, George.
It's not usually seen as a poisoning
agent,
but in some case could induce
paranoia, disturbed thoughts.
People hear voices.
Bit of a dangerous prescription,
then.
Or the professionalism of the GP.
Of course
Anyway, there's something else.
The marks on the upper arm and the
left shoulder
could have been self inflicted, but
it's also possible she was seized
and held under the water.
Held under?
If anyone asks, we're still leading
with a suicide
Why?
Because we don't want
whoever did this to make a run
for it, do we, not just yet.
I'll catch up with you at the
village.
Fair enough.
Finished?
FOOTSTEPS
Mrs Gooding.
Inspector.
Is there something I can do for you?
No
No, I was just passing, and I saw
the door open,
and I thought somebody might be up
to no good.
Mrs Gooding, tell me this
were you a judge when Bella Slade was
made Carnival Queen?
Yes.
She was a beautiful girl, wasn't she?
Her mum must have been very proud of
her all those photographs.
Yes. There's one missing.
Is there?
It always had pride of place there
on the mantelpiece.
Mrs Gooding?
I wonder if you could solve a problem
for me, please?
I thought solving problems was your
responsibility.
I'm absolutely sure that I've seen
you before.
Have you ever lived in Badger's
Drift?
I told you before I've spent most
of my time living here.
I know what you told me
My sister lived in Badger's Drift
Iris Rainbird, and my dear nephew
Dennis.
They were murdered nine years ago.
Your sister?
Yes
Hello.
Sorry, mate. Just about to close for
a couple of hours.
I'm Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby
from Causton CID,
and I'd like some information,
please.
I'm very interested in the carnival
celebrations that took place here
eight years ago.
Can't really help you with that.
Seen one Oak Apple Parade, you've
seen the lot.
I believe that Bella Slade was the
carnival queen on that occasion.
Yeah, you're right. She was.
Well, do you have any back copies of
the local paper?
Sorry. No microfiche. You need to go
to the main branch in Causton.
Did you know Bella?
Not that well. Used to see her
around.
What was she like?
A bit too sexy for her own good.
But that's the way it is with these
carnival queens.
Just a load of little tarts in the
making.
Do you live at home?
Me? No
Couldn't stand that. Got a small
flat at the back.
What can you tell me about Iris
Rainbird?
Bringing such shame to the family
name.
We don't talk about her.
How did your mother get on with her
sister?
She hated her.
Did she?
And the nephew?
Ma doted on creepy cousin Dennis
God knows why.
That's what I don't understand
you remind me so much of him.
That's her idea. She likes me to
look like him.
Don't you mind that?
I don't care one way or the other as
long as it keeps the old bird happy.
It's a bit of a price to pay, though,
isn't it?
Not when you have to think about
long term.
Inheritance, and all that.
Oh, yea, hang your boughs.
DOUBLE KNOCK
Oh, yea, hang your boughs!
RESPONDERS: With the oak,
sun or showers!
It's called
the Gathering in Ceremony.
It's a very busy little village.
Only during Oak Apple Week.
I didn't know that oak trees had
apples. Oh, yea
They don't, it's all to do with
the gall wasp Oh.
At one time, the woman used to give
the man a kiss
if he brought a green oak bough to
her door.
But the church put a stop to that
years ago.
Why? People were
enjoying themselves too much.
Oyez, hang your boughs!
With the oak, sun or showers!
Hi there.
Oh, hi.
Need any help, Ruthy?
No thanks, Doctor.
That's a pity.
Ruthy!
I don't mind sharing you with your
husband,
but I won't share you with anyone
else.
OK?
OK!
It's Rob!
Hey, Sadie!
Hello, Rob.
Hiya.
It is coming along great!
Did you do all that yourself?
No, Mum did some, and Dad.
I painted the sun.
Well, it looks fantastic.
Hey, Mark, how are you doing?
For Christ's sake!
It's the village dog show we're going
to, not bloody Crufts!
It's only a bit of fun, Mark.
Come on, Tully!
What about the boughs?
You said you'd get them.
I expect he's off to the pub.
BARKING
EXCITED CHATTER
BARKING
Yeah, give me dogs over human
beings any day.
FAIRGROUND MUSIC
Hey, my money's on that ragbag over
there, look.
Hi, Tom. Ben's been telling me all
about Oak Apple Day.
He's an expert.
Oh, are you?
Those tombola prizes look rather
good,
if anyone's got their pocket money.
Afternoon, Doctor!
Oh, hello, April. Now, I do like
a girl in uniform.
(CONTINUES LAUGHING)
I think I should just...
Could I get you a cup of tea?
Never touch the stuff.
Well, then, perhaps a drink?
It's a lovely idea, but I really do
have to rush. People to deal with.
Another time, perhaps.
All right, Doctor.
Doctor Wellow!
He said he's in a hurry.
Oh, is he?
Would you be Ursula Gooding's
daughter?
Yes.
Oh, you are the policeman.
I am, but right now I'm interested in
all things oak apple.
Oh, I can tell you all about that.
Can you?
Yes!
Well, guess what?
Here is a fellow enthusiast.
Oh!
There you go, love.
Thank you.
Call that a drink?
Have a pint!
No, thanks.
He's a show to run.
Yeah, a poxy dog show!
And you're entering Tully, remember.
Yeah, yeah, I know, I know.
First I've got to get my
oak boughs in.
Should have tought of that
before, shouldn't you?
There's still time.
Fancy a wee walk in the woods, Ruth?
No, thanks, Mark.
Probably a good thing.
Never be the same again.
ORGAN PLAYS
Come on, Tully, come on!
Hey, do you have to flaunt yourself
in front of every horny bastard
who comes into this pub?
I do not flaunt myself.
I'm just being me, that's all.
Yeah.
(SIGHS) That's the problem.
The bringing in of the green oak
boughs is important,
because it represents freedom.
In what way?
Well, centuries ago the old earls
well, the landlords, if you like
they tried to take away the
villagers' rights
to walk in the woods and on the
common.
But those green boughs also
represent love,
because in those days two young
lovers died
in each other's arms under a king
oak tree.
They were victims of persecution.
Really?
Yes.
(LITTLE ACORNS GASP)
Tully, come on!
HEAVY BREATHING
(THINKS) Don't trust anyone!
Tully!
(THINKS) Don't trust them!
(THINKS) Don't trust anyone...
.don't trust them.
Or you could kill them!
Kill the bastards before they kill
you!
Kill them!
PANTING
So, that's Iris Rainbird's sister.
Yes.
I think I remember the case.
Mother and son were murdered because
they were blackmailers? Yeah.
Let's hope it doesn't run in the
family.
I need to talk to Doctor Wellow
again.
I'll meet you back here in a bit, OK?
OK
We've all been waiting! Where the
hell have you been? Sorry, Ursula,
got my...timing mixed up.
'One-two, one-two...'
'Hello, campers.'
'We are shortly about to start
judging, so scruff up your mutts.'
Look, there's our van.
'Just bear with me a moment...'
APRIL: And also the green
oak boughs are important...
because they represent love.
FOOTSTEPS THROUGH
UNDERGROWTH
PANTING
Thank you, Mrs Harris and Woody!'
'Now we have Tim Lacey
and...(DEEPLY) Butch.'
'Thank you, Tim.
And they don't come much
scruffier than that,
and that is just the owner.
Thank you, Tim...and Butch.
Now we have the "lurvely"
Jenny Miller
and three year old Wham Bam.'
Aw, don't worry, love, you know what
your dad's like. He won't be long.
APRIL: Been lovely talking to you...
'Thank you, Jenny and Wham Bam!'
HOWLING
Here you are, girls. Now, who's
orange and who's lemon?
I saw you chatting to that copper,
earlier And what's wrong with that?
First doctors, now chief inspectors.
Why don't you try pulling a bit of
ruff for a change?
Alistair, please!
You may have more luck.
There's bourbons and custard creams.
Now, you share them out, girls.
Drink up, Abigail.
(Did you hear what he said?!)
Hello, Mr Barnaby.
Hello, Doctor Wellow.
Been doing a bit of rally cross,
have we?
More to the point,
most of my patients
live on track roads in
the back of beyond.
Can I be of help to you?
I do hope so.
Marion Slade.
There is a possibility that she
might have been murdered.
What?
I say a possibility,
and therefore I want you
to keep this information...
keep it to yourself.
I find this hard to believe
Marion had no enemies
that I know of.
You told me that Marion
was more than a patient,
she was a friend.
Yes.
Anything else?
I need to know.
All right, yes, yes.
We had a bit of a fling, once.
When?
Years ago
I wouldn't harm her.
I can assure you of that.
MOBILE PHONE RINGS
Excuse me.
Barnaby.
'They've found another body, sir.'
(SOBBING)
This is terrible news.
I know.
What the hell is happening to this
village?
I'd like a word with you.
Hello, George.
Tom
Who found him?
Some ramblers, sir.
And there's this.
If that cut his throat
he didn't kill himself.
No, the knife would still
be in his hand.
Don't touch! Only a CID man
would think of that.
If only you could tell us, eh?
Despite what's happened we've still
got a timetable to work to.
We must get on with
promoting the carnival queen.
But surely that can wait.
No, it can't wait!
Tomorrow that photographer is coming
into the village.
All right.
Oh, John,
I don't wish to appear insensitive.
Ursula, would I ever think that
of you?
Mm...
Why have you never married?
It's not my idea of a healthy
lifestyle.
I've prescribed too many
anti depressants
for too many troubled spouses.
Got a problem.
Midsomer Barton's becoming too
complicated for me.
I may have to move on.
Marion Slade and Mark Castle.
What's the connection?
He found her body.
No, no he didn't.
The children found her first.
He was next on the scene,
He says he didn't know
her ???.
DOOR OPENING
Minster Barnaby!
Mister Barnaby! There's something I
feel I must tell you. Which is?
Er, well, it's probably none of my
business,
but John Starkey was late for the
start of the dog show.
Late? Yes. We were all
very worried about him.
He went missing round about the time
that poor Mark was killed.
Where have you been?
On the downs.
At this hour?
I've told you so many times, John.
Do I have to spell it out again?
I like to avoid that village during
Oak Apple bloody Week.
Mark Castle's been killed.
What?
They found him in the wood.
This God awful place!
I hate it.
I may have one or two kids' parties
to do.
Mrs Hurst. She's worth a fortune.
She said she wants to book me
and pass the word round to her
friends. They're all loaded as well.
No.
What do you mean, no?
It's not going to happen.
Not for you.
Oh, come on, Grace.
You're not as funny as
you think you are.
You don't really make people laugh.
Well, they like to laugh at you.
They like doing that.
You see, you're not really the
joker.
You're the joke.
Thanks.
Bloody thanks.
I'll have my supper down the pub.
DOORS SLAM
Thought you might.
RINGING TONE
'This is Doctor Wellow's home
number.
I'm afraid I'm not here to take your
call at the moment
So please leave a message after...'
A single wound to the neck.
Some bruising in the wound, due to
the downward pressure of the cut,
and there were traces of sedative.
A tranquilliser.
Dirathene? Enough to make him
semi conscious. Suzanne.
So, it looks as if the same person
or persons committed both murders.
Sorry, Tom.
Tickets for the Opera.
Opera?!
They say Mark Castle
had his throat cut from ear to ear.
I don't want to talk about it,
Mother.
And his dog was howling
like a banshee.
I really don't
want to talk about it.
Well, you're going to have to talk
about it.
It's not something you can just shut
out.
I mean, it's not like reading a
book.
It's something that happened
here, in our village.
Anyway, I think he was
a waste and a drunk.
And probably a drug addict.
How do you know that?
Because he looked it.
His family are probably glad to get
rid of him.
Mother, I've really had enough.
You never have a good word to
say on anyone in this village.
And...and...and you spy on people.
I do not spy on people.
I merely keep a check on them.
That's the same thing.
And I do it for the common good.
Well, I'm sick and tired of it,
and I'm sick and tired of waiting
on you hand and foot
when I...I...I have my own life
to lead.
What life?
Well... Well...
Well...my piano lessons.
And...and the Little Acorn troop.
And my friends.
You don't have any friends.
Only because I don't get the chance
to see anyone.
I...
Are you feeling ill, April?
Is that what the problem is?
Shall I fetch Doctor Wellow?
I'm sure you'd like that.
I mean, any excuse would do,
wouldn't it?
But you'd be wasting your time.
He has a pick of all the women in
the village.
Why would he bother with you?
(SOBS)
Do you have any idea
who might have done this?
No, not really.
He upset a few people
after he'd had a drink, but...
that's no reason to
kill anyone, is it?
Do you want something
to eat, Sadie?
Or a drink?
Looks a bit sad now.
Yeah.
We met about ten years ago.
We were both on the road together.
We liked it here so we decided to
get married and settle down.
Do you know if Mark had fallen out
with anyone recently?
He'd have the odd argument
in the pub.
But it didn't mean anything.
So, as far as you know,
he had no enemies? No.
In the old days there were a few
bust ups over drugs.
But all the other
travellers left here years ago.
We should have gone with them.
Hello, Mister Starkey.
Not in a rush, are we?
Well, I do have a couple of
appointments.
Business brisk, Mister Starkey?
Mr Starkey, will you tell us where
you were
at the time of the opening of the
dog show yesterday?
I was there, of course.
I was the compere.
Mrs Gooding tells us
there was a bit of a panic on
because you were late for the start.
The cow!
Oh Yes, I was late. I was rounding
up a few more competitors.
Anyone confirm that? Well, there...
there...there's Ruth, of course.
Ruth? Who's Ruth?
Mrs Chalk, the publican's wife
Er...I...stopped to have
a bit of a chat with her.
Long chat?
No, no.
Now, hang on. Mark Castle may have
been a right prat at times,
but I had no reason to...
That bloody Ursula!
She's always doing a witch hunt on
someone or other.
Last week it was the Doctor.
I suppose this week it's me.
Why the Doctor?
Oh, she thinks he's a man
with a past. And is he?
Don't ask me, ask him.
Mr Starkey, can you tell us why
anyone would someone want to steal
one of these photographs from Marion
Slade's place?
I've no idea.
Poor Bella.
What a waste of a life, eh?
She was very gifted, you know.
Wonderful pianist.
April Gooding taught her.
HAMMERING
Sadie!
You've got to eat your dinner,
come on.
I thought you could use some help.
I can put in the extra hours.
Thanks.
I...
Would you like me to get rid of
that?
Please.
You can drop me off at the village.
Sir
I'd like you to run a check
on Doctor Wellow.
Oh, and do one on Alistair Gooding
while you're at it. Yes, sir
# BEETHOVEN: Fur Elise
(HUMS MELODY)
KNOCKING AT DOOR
Hello, again.
Oh. My mother isn't here at
the moment, Mr. Barnaby.
She's at a meeting.
No, April,
it's you I came to talk to.
Me?
Yes.
Can I come in?
Yes, yes, of course
Thank you.
Just through here, Inspector.
Thank you.
Do take a seat.
Thank you.
I wanted to ask you, if I may, about
Bella Slade.
Bella?
Yeah.
You taught her the piano, didn't you?
Yes, I did.
Yes.
Oh, she was a wonderful pupil,
actually.
Sometimes she couldn't attend
lessons because of her illness.
But she had a natural talent.
And of course she was a
carnival queen, wasn't she?
That's right.
Would your mother have chosen her?
I expect so.
A panel decides, but mother always
has the last word.
It's very sad that Bella had to die
so young. Yes.
Do you happen to know
where she's buried?
Oh, she wasn't buried.
She was cremated.
Her ashes are scattered in Barton
woods.
Under the king oak trees.
Yes, that's right.
Yes. She loved the woods.
I wonder who's idea that was?
Sorry?
Cremation.
I suppose it was her mother's.
No. Marion once told me.
It was Doctor Wellow's idea.
He was a close family friend,
you see.
I know some people speak ill of him,
Inspector,
but his heart is in the right place.
I'm sure it is.
Ron! We're going to need that other
barrel on.
Ron! Oh, where are you?
There's no rats down here.
I thought I heard one.
Anyway, that stuff's cruel.
They swell up.
They take a long time to die.
Actually, I wanted to talk to you
about something.
This jealousy of yours. It, it can
be a bit suffocating at times.
It's not jealousy.
Then what is it?
I don't like being made a fool of.
Oh, Ron, I might flirt a bit
behind the bar,
but that's as far as it goes.
Anyway, flirting's all part of being
a good pub landlady, isn't it?
You should know that. It brings in
the punters.
So what would you do if you caught
me with someone else?
I'd kill the pair of you.
PHONE RINGS
Yep.
It's me.
Grace
'How are you?'
'I'm...'
Speak up.
'I'm...'
I'm not happy.
That prick of a husband of yours...
'Still giving you a hard time, eh?'
When you leave here,
will you take me with you?
Will I what?
I want to come with you.
Grace, Grace.
You know that's impossible.
If we lived together
.we'd end up rowing all the time.
'Everyone does.'
We've got something really good
here.
It's fun
'It's not meant to be serious.'
'Grace?'
Grace?
Come on, gentlemen. Get in there.
What are you afraid of?
She's not going to bite.
Excellent. Hold on, Dave.
I've just got an idea.
What about doing one with
the estate agents in the background?
After all, they are our sponsors
And we must have one with
our sponsors, mustn't we? Big smile.
That's it. That's good.
Can you move in a bit, please?
Hello, Mr Gooding.
Vicki, big smile now.
Oh, hi.
Just let me adjust this sash
a little bit.
Pardon my hands, Vicki. Oooh!
Just tilt your head slightly.
(What do you think of
our carnival queen?)
Very nice big smile.
Hold it there.
Better than the last little slag
we had.
Big smile, Vicki.
Now, which one of you
lovely gentlemen
is going to get his hands round
the lovely, luscious Vicki?
What about you, Rob?
No, thanks.
Go on, Rob. She's probably gagging
for it, just like Bella was.
Come on, Alistair.
Come on. Come on down.
You won't forget
what I've done for you
That's great. Hold it there.
Come on, big smile, Vicki.
isn't she, ladies and gentlemen?
The lovely Vicki! Miss Oak Apple.
Yes.
Are you getting that, Dave?
Big smile.
Lovely.
CAMERA WHIRS
I think we've made a mistake
with that carnival queen.
She hasn't got
one ounce of personality.
But your brother insisted
that she was the best looking girl
in the village.
Can't think what he saw in her.
What's the matter with you?
Inspector Barnaby came here.
He was asking questions.
About Bella Slade.
You let him in here in this house?
Well, of course I let him in.
I'm quite capable of
answering the door.
That's about
all you ARE capable of doing.
(TUTS)
If only I had Alistair living here
instead of you
what a difference
that would make to my life.
Do you know something, Mother?
There are times
when I wish you were dead.
You want to know what Alistair
sees in that girl? I'll tell you.
She's young.
He used to hang around Bella Slade
when she was under age.
Did you know that?
That's the way he likes them,
Mother.
Will you be able to cope with that
when he's back here under your roof?
SIREN WAILS
PHONE RINGS
Ah. The information you wanted, sir.
Dr Wellow. No previous convictions.
But there have been
a few allegations
of professional misconduct,
including one of sexual abuse
No evidence to back the allegations.
No. Oh, and there's this.
(READS) Alistair Jarvis Gooding
charged with taking
an under aged girl
out of the possession of her parents
He was 24 at the time. The girl was
willing. She soon returned home.
Only the one conviction?
Yeah, nothing since.
I wonder how well he knew
Bella Slade.
Hi, Ma. What's up?
It's April.
She's turned on me.
What?
Said she wished I was dead.
That's not like her.
She had a go at you too.
Me?
She said you liked young girls.
So what?
I am flesh and blood, after all.
VERY young girls.
The bitch said that?
How could she? Her own brother.
Did you ever had anything to do
with Bella Slade?
Me? No.
I'm telling the truth, Ma.
I mean,
would I lie to you?
You're so like
your dear cousin Dennis.
Oh, you know...
If only he were still alive
you two could have been
such good friends.
Yes, Mark Castle was
a patient of mine.
But I never prescribed sedatives
for the man.
Well, how come
the same class of tranquillisers
was found in his system, Doctor?
Found another source of supply,
I should think.
Then why would he take so many
on top of booze?
How the hell would I know?
We've taken the liberty of
digging into your past, Dr Wellow.
A case of sexual impropriety,
complaints of
professional misconduct.
Those complaints were never
substantiated.
Sit down, please.
They're still on file.
Part of the job
Anyone who dares to be different
must expect to be the target
of that sort of thing.
The day Mark Castle was killed
you said you were out
visiting a patient
somewhere in the back of beyond.
John Prentice.
I look in on him from time to time.
And was he at home when you called?
No. He must have been out.
A bit of a wasted journey, then?
That's also part of the job.
Bella Slade...
Why did you recommend
her body be cremated?
Her mother asked me
to discuss the options.
Why did you recommend
her body be cremated?
Because her mother
couldn't bear the idea
of her beloved child
being laid in the grave.
That's why.
Do you have a locum to look after
your country rounds for you?
Yes.
I suggest you get in touch with him
because I don't want you to leave
the village until further notice.
Not even for emergencies.
Where are you going?
Er...I've got to get to
the supermarket before it closes.
Won't be long.
April?
April?
GIRL: Look. What does it say?
Two minutes, everybody.
On the float
because we're ready to go.
You've got to speed up.
We're about to go now.
Ruth?
Have you seen Dr Wellow?
No. Why?
He promised to give me a hand
when he finished surgery.
KNOCK ON DOOR
April? Do you know what time it is?
It's the carnival procession,
remember?
All your Little Acorns
are waiting for you.
April?
Fluff up, girls.
In formation
Now, someone took one of
those photographs from up there.
Why? Why would anyone do that?
And why do I keep coming back
to this dead girl, eh?
She died of natural causes, sir.
Or do you think we've got some
seriously dodgy doctor on our hands?
Well, he's not like any doctor
I've ever known.
And he knows much more
than he's told us.
Well, she obviously hasn't left it
as a shrine to her daughter.
No, she hasn't.
Sir.
All in the same handwriting.
All addressed to Bella.
She hadn't come home
when I went to bed last night.
April? But she never stays out late.
She did last night.
April...
Your brother's here.
Must have been some night out.
I've had enough of this.
I'm going for doctor Wellow.
No!
five, six, seven, eight
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight
They are all saying
much the same thing, aren't they?
"Can't live without you.
My life was nothing till I met you."
And no signature. Just kisses.
S.W.A.L.K.
That's nice, isn't it? Sweet.
It's teenage.
Sort of innocent
Probably just some local kid
with a crush on the carnival queen.
This one's a bit different.
I wonder if our Dr Wellow still has
a copy of Bella's death certificate.
Now, Phoebe, Lucy, Darren, Joseph,
over here
in front of the steam engine.
Now, be very careful.
You all look terrific.
Now, my canine prize winners,
over here behind the young farmers.
Thank you, thank you.
Young farmers, jump to it We're
about to go Pick up the yokes
Hop along, Justin.
Vicki, you're looking lovely. Just
remember to keep that smile going.
We're doing the full circular route
ending up with the High Street.
Come on, ladies. We're about to go.
Oh, Mr Barnaby.
Are you looking for Dr Wellow?
He didn't turn up for surgery
this morning.
His receptionist has tried calling
him, but no reply,
she's had to get a locum in.
Perhaps he's done a runner.
The curtains are still drawn.
He's probably with one of his women.
DOORBELL
Jones!
(CRIES OUT)
Oh, dear.
Oh, dear. Oh, dear me.
I think you...
I... I think you ought to talk
to my daughter.
# BAND STRIKES UP
You must tell us what happened,
April.
Are you going to tell us?
Has something bad happened?
To whom?
Not to me.
To Dr Wellow?
Did you see this bad thing happen?
No.
No, I didn't.
I heard it.
NIGHT BIRD CALLS
I...
I used to watch.
Watch Dr Wellow?
Watch his house.
Why?
Well...
Because...
because I loved him.
You stupid bloody fool.
I was hoping that...
one day he might...
.give up all those women
and just want me. (SOBS)
I'm sorry. (SOBS)
I'm sorry, Inspector. Sorry. (SOBS)
Um...
Um...
I...
I saw him...
.kissing that lady from the pub
good night.
And then he went inside the house.
And...
And I - I - I was going to go home.
FOOTSTEPS ON GRAVEL
Someone else arrived.
And they were coming through
the garden.
And I saw Dr Wellow
opening the door.
And then this person...
.went inside...
And then I heard
this terrible crashing and I...
No!
And then I heard the Doctor...
(SOBS)
I'm sorry.
FRONT DOOR SHUTS
Mrs Gooding...
will you excuse us for a minute?
I'd like a word alone with April,
please.
April, look at me.
Listen, listen to me.
Yes.
Did you recognise this other person
who went to the house?
Who was it?
# CARNIVAL BAND PLAYS
CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
I thought Dr Wellow
was up to something.
In this village, nothing escapes me.
Bella Slade...
she didn't die of food poisoning,
did she?
No.
No. She died in childbirth.
Well, so it's said.
But no one can prove otherwise now,
can they?
But I'm not really sure
who the father was.
Well, I'm sorry to be one up on you,
Mrs Gooding,
but I know who it was.
SOUNDS OF CARNIVAL
# DRUMBEAT
You take that side. I'm down here.
Give to our collection.
Pieces of eight, pieces of eight.
Yo, ho, ho.
MAN: Bless thee, Bottom.
Bless thee. Thou art translated.
I see their knavery.
this is to make an ass of me
to fright me, if they could.
Jones!
Hello, everybody. Hello.
Jones!
So pretty.
You're a star.
There you are.
GASPS OF HORROR
You don't come anywhere near
to Bella.
And you never will.
(SCREAMS)
CROWD: Stop him!
Get off me!
(YELLS)
Get off!
Robert Pride, I'm arresting you
for the murders of Marion Slade,
Mark Castle and Richard Wellow.
You do not have to say anything,
but it may harm your defence if
you do not mention, when questioned,
something which you later rely on
in court.
Anything you do say may be given
in evidence.
Would you like to tell us
about Bella Slade, Rob?
She was more than just
a school friend, wasn't she?
Eh? Much more.
You loved her, didn't you?
You loved her and she loved you.
Do you recognise these?
We found them at the cottage
in Bella's old room.
She'd kept them all, Rob. Look.
Tied up with little red ribbon.
Didn't want to part with them.
It's all here, Rob.
PAPER RUSTLES
Here.
Your meetings...
Your walks in the wood...
Your love for each other.
So what went wrong?
I'll tell you what went wrong, Rob.
You had a row, didn't you?
Not a big row,
but enough to make her go off
and have a little fling
with someone else.
Only that someone else was older,
wasn't he?
He didn't care too much about "love".
He wanted something else.
And he got it.
I don't want to hear this
I'd say he found it easy.
Bella, a very delicate girl,
she couldn't have put up
much of a resistance.
It was as good as rape, wasn't it,
Rob? I don't want to hear any more!
Well, I'm very sorry, Rob, but
you're going to have to hear this.
This is the last letter
you wrote to Bella.
Look.
"I don't care about what happened...
.so long as you'll have me back.
I just want to look after you...
.and the baby."
Whose baby, Rob?
Sadly, there was no having Bella
back, was there?
And no baby.
Because she died during an abortion.
That's a mother and child dead.
You know who did that abortion,
don't you?
Eh, Rob?
It was Dr Wellow.
And Bella's mum,
she went along with it all
because she was having an affair
with Dr Wellow.
That must have angered you a bit,
eh, Rob?
I mean, if you can't trust your local
doctor, who can you trust, eh?
So you decided to kill him.
Called round to his house just as
Ruth Chalk was leaving. Am I right?
But unfortunately for you,
someone was watching.
DOORBELL
Hey, Rob.
(YELLS)
So whose baby was it
that Dr Wellow killed?
All right, Rob...
The man who seduced Bella...
would you care to give us his name,
please?
It was Mark Castle, wasn't it?
He used to boast about it
when he was in the pub drunk.
Your friend and employer?
He's some friend, eh (?)
Hey, Mark. Fancy a drink?
No, I've just been to the pub.
I've got to get those oak boughs in
or Helen'll kill me.
I've got a bottle of Scotch
in the house.
All right. Just do one.
Or two!
You drugged him
before you killed him, didn't you?
And you used capsules you'd taken
from Marion Slade's house.
The Dirathene.
BULLARD: It's not usually seen
as a poisoning agent.
But in some cases,
it could induce paranoia,
disturbed thoughts.
People hear voices.
So it was very easy to follow him
into the wood that you knew so well.
BIRD CALLS
You waited till the drugs
knocked him out
and then you killed him
with his own knife.
DOG BARKS
And so you killed the man
who'd boasted the child was his.
But it wasn't his, was it, Rob?
It was yours.
And you knew that.
But what I don't understand...
.is what started all this off now.
What made you decide to punish
Bella's mother
eight years on?
You doctored her capsules,
didn't you?
I'd finished the gardening
for the day.
She was making coffee.
And she let me use the bathroom.
Before I went upstairs,
I nicked a photo of Bella.
I knew she took
those tranquillisers.
I thought, if I gave her enough...
MARION: Coffee's ready.
.. that'd be it.
JONES: But the drugs
didn't kill her, did they?
They just made her hallucinate.
So later that night,
when you went back to the cottage,
you found her running down the lane
Where do you think you're going?
They're bringing back
the carnival queen, Mrs Slade.
You shouldn't have let them do that.
MUFFLED SCREAMS
So that was the spur.
You killed Marion Slade because
there could never be another Bella,
could there? Ever?
(SCREAMS)
You shouldn't have let her die!
You shouldn't have let her die!
And once you'd decided,
you did to them all
what you'd wanted to do
for eight very long years.
What me and Bella had was good.
It was pure,
and those bastards killed her.
They deserved to die.
What a day. What a terrible day
for this village.
Then again, why should you care?
Nothing ever matters to you.
BIRDSONG
I've arranged for
statements to be made, sir.
Good.
# PIANO: Fur Elise
Sounds like life goes on
in Midsomer Barton.
Yes.
She'd want that, wouldn't she?
You know she would.
So now's the time, isn't it?
You must do it now, for her sake.
You know she's waiting for you.
Waiting...
Waiting...
Waiting for you to join her.
So don't keep her waiting too long.
Waiting... Waiting for you to join
her.
Do it now.
Do it now!
Come on
MAN: One, two, one, two.
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.
What a lovely bright morning it is.
Aren't we lucky?
We hope you'll support all the many
and varied events throughout the
week,
and give generously.
I'm sure you'll join me in thanking
all the hard working committee
members
who've helped to prepare this year's
Oak Apple celebrations.
Get off, you sod
Ha ha ha!
Ha ha!
Right, I'm going to thump you.
Ha ha ha ha!
Look.
Hello, Colin.
Good luck, Katrina
Yes!
Yes!
Thank you, gents. Up on the
platform, quick as you can.
And go easy with the trophies.
Hi, Mr Starkey.
Oh! Hello, Vicky.
I love the jacket.
Thank you.
(ALL GIGGLE)
Cheeky cow.
SIRENS
Is that a siren?
If that's an emergency, then I'm not
available
Surgery's closed.
Police car.
Another one of these, please.
What are you doing for the carnival
procession this year, Doctor?
Nothing.
But if you want to go as Lady
I'd like that.
My hair's too short.
It's not your hair I'll be looking
at.
Thank you.
Log that. Some kids found her, sir.
They stopped a local farmer who was
passing by.
He pulled her out of the water.
What was his name?
The farmer.
Mark Castle
He knew her, so he gave the
investigating officers an ID.
Her name's Marion Slade, lived
locally.
Family.
Apparently, she lived alone
Where exactly?
Um, about a quarter of a mile away.
What is that racket?
That's Oak Apple Week, sir.
It's what?
They celebrate it every year
They know how to have a good time in
Midsomer Barton.
Why is she wearing a nightdress?
The crescendo starts at bar six, so
just ease into that.
You're rushing it a bit. Let's go
back to the beginning,
and keep it steady.
That's it.
You're feeling it
Good.
(HUMS)
I shouldn't think anyone saw her
leave the place, sir.
It's a bit isolated.
It's quite a distance from the stream
too.
Who's the nearest neighbours?
There's some stables just along the
lane.
Detective Constable Jones. This is
DCI Barnaby.
Afternoon
Oh...
Is something wrong, only I'm busy?
It's about your neighbour in Candle
Marion Slade?
Yes, that's the lady.
When did you last see her?
Uh, I'm not sure. A few days ago, I
think, maybe.
I forget Why, what is this?
I'm afraid Marion Slade is dead
What?
And your name is...?
Starkey. Grace Starkey.
Marion's dead?
I don't believe it. How?
Was she a friend of yours?
No. Well, we passed the time of day
if we saw each other.
My husband knew her more than I did.
Is he at home?
During Oak Apple Week? That's hardly
likely.
He's on the village green helping to
run things as usual.
You can't miss him he's the one
with the fixed smile and stupid
jacket.
Nice day like this, I'm surprised
you're not down there with him.
(LAUGHS)
I've got better things to do.
Nice to see our new Carnival Queen
here today.
You'll be able to see Vicky looking
even more beautiful
on Saturday as the star of our grand
carnival procession.
Get on with it.
And now, for the final event of the
morning...
( GASPS)
It's the nine and under fancy dress
competition.
Boys and girls, come on down.
Sponsored by Harrison's
electrical store in association
with Cowleaze Dairy.
Little Phoebe and her mates had been
playing by the stream.
They called me over.
As soon as I got down into the water
I could see it was Marion.
Poor woman.
Did you know her?
Not that well. She didn't mix that
much. Don't think she liked anyone.
Rob knew her.
Who's Rob?
Rob Pride. He works here part time.
Does a bit of gardening for her.
Any idea where we can find him?
He'll be up at Parson's Field
Here, Sadie. Fix it here.
So, how long had she been in the
stream for?
Most of the night, we think
So, what's this going to be?
It's our carnival float, isn't it?
It's going to be our farm, winter
and summer.
Mm.
This is the snow.
Amazing.
It looks just like the real thing.
Mr Pride?
Causton CID
Is this about Mrs Slade?
Yes. Marion Slade of Candle Cottage.
So, it's true?
How did you hear about it?
Mark told me.
I thought it was one of his jokes.
Would that be Mark Castle, the
farmer?
Yes.
Why? Why would he joke about
something like that?
He's got an odd sense of humour,
especially when he's angry.
We thought it all looked so idyllic
up there at the farm.
It is, when he's not drinking.
When did you last see Mrs Slade?
I was tidying her garden.
Yeah.
No, actually. She seemed...distant.
A bit out of it.
Did she say why?
None of my business I just do the
garden
How long have you known her?
Quite a while.
I went to school with her daughter
Bella.
Thank you, Mr Pride.
Thanks very much.
If you wouldn't mind
don't tell Mark about what I said.
He tends to take things the wrong
way.
Thank you.
Hello, Mrs Starkey.
Hello, Alistair. Been a few coppers
around this morning.
Any idea what it's all about?
Marion Slade. She's drowned,
apparently.
Drowned?
Where?
They found her in the stream.
APPLAUSE
Well done.
Well done, Darren.
our prize winning hedgehog.
Don't forget to put a saucer of milk
out for him tonight
Wrong.
Excuse me, ladies and gentlemen.
(IN IRRITATED TONE) Yes, Ursula?
It must be goat's milk, or it'll
kill him.
Goat's milk...
On a more serious note,
I've just been informed by our
senior judge
that if you are putting milk out for
a hedgehog
it should apparently be goat's milk.
I used to come here when I was a
kid.
Did you?
Hi, girls.
Watch that waistline, Vicky.
Our next prize winner in the nine
and under class
is our busy buzzing bumble bee
Phoebe Berry!
Oh, Phoebe!
What a lovely costume.
PHOEBE: Thank you.
Thank you, dear. Well done.
Ma, I don't know what the village is
coming to.
What do you mean?
Haven't you noticed?
Police everywhere.
And guess what...
Marion Slade, she's dead.
The next prize winner, for third
place, goes to the Queen of Hearts.
Good God.
Anything wrong, sir?
You see those two on the stage?
Lady with the red hat, and fella with
the ponytail.
I could swear I've met them before
some years ago.
But that's not possible.
Why?
Well, because the people I knew...
were both brutally murdered.
Did you know her well, Mr Starkey?
Yes.
We often chatted
I seem to have been one of the few
she confided in.
She didn't trust people.
It was an accident, was it?
Why do you ask that?
Well...
just lately she seemed quite
depressed
because of her daughter.
What about her daughter?
She died eight years ago.
She was only 16.
Her daughter's name?
Bella.
Very delicate girl, but...
so beautiful.
She made a wonderful carnival queen.
Best we'd ever had.
And up until now,
out of respect for Marion,
we dropped that particular event
from the festivities.
Up until now?
Yes. This year we decided to
reinstate it.
Who's the "we", sir?
The Oak Apple Committee.
And how did Marion react to that?
She was against it at first,
but someone put pressure on her.
If only she'd talked to me
So, what else do you do for a
living?
Oh, a bit of DJ-ing here and there.
Local radio.
I'm also a children's entertainer.
Great
You can tell them, John, that it's a
sad business,
but the past is the past, and that
stupid woman
should have pulled herself together
before now.
Excuse me you are?
He will tell you, because my guess
is she planned to kill herself,
and she waited until today to ruin
our festivities.
Why? Why would she do that?
But she didn't succeed, did she?
Have you seen the turnout? It's
amazing.
That's Ursula. Ursula Gooding.
Chairwoman of the Committee.
And not a woman to be argued with.
That's right.
When she was giving out the prizes,
someone spoke to her,
a big fella with a ponytail.
Yes, that's her son. Alistair.
Mrs Gooding?
Mrs Gooding?
I'm Detective Chief Inspector
Barnaby.
We haven't met before, have we?
I don't think so, no
Are you from Midsomer Barton?
I've lived here most of my life.
Why? What's that got to do with
anything?
And about time!
I expected you half an hour ago.
Sorry, Mother. I was with a pupil.
Where's the car?
It's just over there.
Hello, there.
Sad news about Marion.
You should have come to the village
green today, Grace.
The kids did so well with their
fancy dress.
Anything wrong?
Yes! Everything is bloody wrong.
I've got too much to do here,
so instead of
pratting around dressed like an
idiot, you should be helping me!
Well, I've got my own job.
You call that a job?
There's only one breadwinner around
here.
Tomorrow's the day the villagers
gather in the green oak boughs.
But you like to do yours early.
That's right.
Marion Slade was not just my
patient.
She was a good friend.
When did you last see her?
She rang.
She was in a bit of a state.
She couldn't find her
tranquillisers.
Last night...
What time last night?
Nine. Nine thirty.
I asked her if it was urgent, but
she said not to worry.
She'd keep looking for the
tranquillisers.
And how did she sound?
Like I said, in a bit of a state.
She seemed tired.
Cigarette?
No, thank you.
How often was she prescribed these
tranquillisers?
I put her on a repeat prescription.
She'd been suffering from anxiety
and tension for some time.
Would you say she was a suicide risk?
The thought never crossed my mind.
Can you remember the last time that
she collected her prescription?
Uh... Well... Let's go and find out.
Thank you.
Was Marion Slade's daughter a
patient of yours as well?
Bella? Yes.
What did she die of?
Complications following food
poisoning.
Mind you, she was never well from
the start.
What was wrong with her?
Problem was poor response to
treatment due to allergic reactions.
Did you know Mr Slade?
No
Marion came here from
Gloucestershire after the divorce.
Bella would have been about two.
Here we are. Dirathene.
75mg collected from pharmacy Friday.
So, she would have had plenty left.
What effect would an overdose have?
Gradual unconsciousness, followed by
possible heart stoppage.
(SIGHS)
I was really pleased with today's
event.
(SIGHS)
Two of my little Acorns won prizes
It was a bloody awful day.
Oh, come on, Mother.
Policemen everywhere,
me with a headache.
All I wanted to do was come home
and rest.
Of course, you just have to be late
I couldn't help it.
Of course you could help it.
You just don't think things out.
Never have, never will.
Hell ooo!
(LAUGH) Alistair!
Hello, Ma.
Oh, do you want some supper, dear?
April, get him something to eat.
No, I'm OK.
Anyway, I'm taking you to that
meeting.
Oh, of course.
(LAUGHS)
Oh, dear...
At least YOU never keep me waiting.
Now, I think the prizes for this
year's carnival procession
should be as follows...
most topical entry,
best comic tableau.
That never works.
Why not?
Because no one's ever funny
They are when they try to be
serious.
The best floral entry, the best
adult fancy dress.
I think it would be a good idea
if we have a glamorous grandmother
event one year.
No, thank you.
They're asking about it in the bar.
Come on, now, Ron we don't want to
lower the tone.
Yeah. Have you seen
some of the so called glamorous
grandmas in this village?
They're like old slappers.
They're not the only ones. Now, can
we continue, please?
Now, then, how many carnival
princesses do we have?
Four.
And what are their names?
Hang on...
I've left the list in my car.
Typical.
Well, while we're waiting, I'll go
and get us some drinks.
Hey...
Not now. Ron...
I don't want him to see.
OK
Hi, John.
Oh...
Alistair.
How's my ma doing?
Fine.
Keeping you in order, is she?
Of course
Good.
Obviously someone has to.
(GIGGLES)
Ouch, that hurt!
Don't worry. I'm a doctor. I can
make it better.
Yes, I know you can make it better.
You always make it better.
You bastard.
My turn.
You just wield the bough.
I've spotted a lovely, low hanging
one here, girls.
It's a corker.
I'm going to cut it just...there.
You've got to do it in the right
place...
so you don't harm the tree.
Thank you, tree.
Always thank your tree
when you cut something off.
All right, girls, very good.
Keep up, Abigail.
There were traces of sedative in her
system a tranquilliser.
Was that Dirathene?
Yes
She was prescribed that.
She'd taken more than her prescribed
dose.
Nowhere near a fatal blood level,
but enough to make her quite drowsy.
She'd told the doctor she'd lost her
tablets.
Maybe they're at the bottom of that
stream.
Tell us about Dirathene, George.
It's not usually seen as a poisoning
agent,
but in some case could induce
paranoia, disturbed thoughts.
People hear voices.
Bit of a dangerous prescription,
then.
Or the professionalism of the GP.
Of course
Anyway, there's something else.
The marks on the upper arm and the
left shoulder
could have been self inflicted, but
it's also possible she was seized
and held under the water.
Held under?
If anyone asks, we're still leading
with a suicide
Why?
Because we don't want
whoever did this to make a run
for it, do we, not just yet.
I'll catch up with you at the
village.
Fair enough.
Finished?
FOOTSTEPS
Mrs Gooding.
Inspector.
Is there something I can do for you?
No
No, I was just passing, and I saw
the door open,
and I thought somebody might be up
to no good.
Mrs Gooding, tell me this
were you a judge when Bella Slade was
made Carnival Queen?
Yes.
She was a beautiful girl, wasn't she?
Her mum must have been very proud of
her all those photographs.
Yes. There's one missing.
Is there?
It always had pride of place there
on the mantelpiece.
Mrs Gooding?
I wonder if you could solve a problem
for me, please?
I thought solving problems was your
responsibility.
I'm absolutely sure that I've seen
you before.
Have you ever lived in Badger's
Drift?
I told you before I've spent most
of my time living here.
I know what you told me
My sister lived in Badger's Drift
Iris Rainbird, and my dear nephew
Dennis.
They were murdered nine years ago.
Your sister?
Yes
Hello.
Sorry, mate. Just about to close for
a couple of hours.
I'm Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby
from Causton CID,
and I'd like some information,
please.
I'm very interested in the carnival
celebrations that took place here
eight years ago.
Can't really help you with that.
Seen one Oak Apple Parade, you've
seen the lot.
I believe that Bella Slade was the
carnival queen on that occasion.
Yeah, you're right. She was.
Well, do you have any back copies of
the local paper?
Sorry. No microfiche. You need to go
to the main branch in Causton.
Did you know Bella?
Not that well. Used to see her
around.
What was she like?
A bit too sexy for her own good.
But that's the way it is with these
carnival queens.
Just a load of little tarts in the
making.
Do you live at home?
Me? No
Couldn't stand that. Got a small
flat at the back.
What can you tell me about Iris
Rainbird?
Bringing such shame to the family
name.
We don't talk about her.
How did your mother get on with her
sister?
She hated her.
Did she?
And the nephew?
Ma doted on creepy cousin Dennis
God knows why.
That's what I don't understand
you remind me so much of him.
That's her idea. She likes me to
look like him.
Don't you mind that?
I don't care one way or the other as
long as it keeps the old bird happy.
It's a bit of a price to pay, though,
isn't it?
Not when you have to think about
long term.
Inheritance, and all that.
Oh, yea, hang your boughs.
DOUBLE KNOCK
Oh, yea, hang your boughs!
RESPONDERS: With the oak,
sun or showers!
It's called
the Gathering in Ceremony.
It's a very busy little village.
Only during Oak Apple Week.
I didn't know that oak trees had
apples. Oh, yea
They don't, it's all to do with
the gall wasp Oh.
At one time, the woman used to give
the man a kiss
if he brought a green oak bough to
her door.
But the church put a stop to that
years ago.
Why? People were
enjoying themselves too much.
Oyez, hang your boughs!
With the oak, sun or showers!
Hi there.
Oh, hi.
Need any help, Ruthy?
No thanks, Doctor.
That's a pity.
Ruthy!
I don't mind sharing you with your
husband,
but I won't share you with anyone
else.
OK?
OK!
It's Rob!
Hey, Sadie!
Hello, Rob.
Hiya.
It is coming along great!
Did you do all that yourself?
No, Mum did some, and Dad.
I painted the sun.
Well, it looks fantastic.
Hey, Mark, how are you doing?
For Christ's sake!
It's the village dog show we're going
to, not bloody Crufts!
It's only a bit of fun, Mark.
Come on, Tully!
What about the boughs?
You said you'd get them.
I expect he's off to the pub.
BARKING
EXCITED CHATTER
BARKING
Yeah, give me dogs over human
beings any day.
FAIRGROUND MUSIC
Hey, my money's on that ragbag over
there, look.
Hi, Tom. Ben's been telling me all
about Oak Apple Day.
He's an expert.
Oh, are you?
Those tombola prizes look rather
good,
if anyone's got their pocket money.
Afternoon, Doctor!
Oh, hello, April. Now, I do like
a girl in uniform.
(CONTINUES LAUGHING)
I think I should just...
Could I get you a cup of tea?
Never touch the stuff.
Well, then, perhaps a drink?
It's a lovely idea, but I really do
have to rush. People to deal with.
Another time, perhaps.
All right, Doctor.
Doctor Wellow!
He said he's in a hurry.
Oh, is he?
Would you be Ursula Gooding's
daughter?
Yes.
Oh, you are the policeman.
I am, but right now I'm interested in
all things oak apple.
Oh, I can tell you all about that.
Can you?
Yes!
Well, guess what?
Here is a fellow enthusiast.
Oh!
There you go, love.
Thank you.
Call that a drink?
Have a pint!
No, thanks.
He's a show to run.
Yeah, a poxy dog show!
And you're entering Tully, remember.
Yeah, yeah, I know, I know.
First I've got to get my
oak boughs in.
Should have tought of that
before, shouldn't you?
There's still time.
Fancy a wee walk in the woods, Ruth?
No, thanks, Mark.
Probably a good thing.
Never be the same again.
ORGAN PLAYS
Come on, Tully, come on!
Hey, do you have to flaunt yourself
in front of every horny bastard
who comes into this pub?
I do not flaunt myself.
I'm just being me, that's all.
Yeah.
(SIGHS) That's the problem.
The bringing in of the green oak
boughs is important,
because it represents freedom.
In what way?
Well, centuries ago the old earls
well, the landlords, if you like
they tried to take away the
villagers' rights
to walk in the woods and on the
common.
But those green boughs also
represent love,
because in those days two young
lovers died
in each other's arms under a king
oak tree.
They were victims of persecution.
Really?
Yes.
(LITTLE ACORNS GASP)
Tully, come on!
HEAVY BREATHING
(THINKS) Don't trust anyone!
Tully!
(THINKS) Don't trust them!
(THINKS) Don't trust anyone...
.don't trust them.
Or you could kill them!
Kill the bastards before they kill
you!
Kill them!
PANTING
So, that's Iris Rainbird's sister.
Yes.
I think I remember the case.
Mother and son were murdered because
they were blackmailers? Yeah.
Let's hope it doesn't run in the
family.
I need to talk to Doctor Wellow
again.
I'll meet you back here in a bit, OK?
OK
We've all been waiting! Where the
hell have you been? Sorry, Ursula,
got my...timing mixed up.
'One-two, one-two...'
'Hello, campers.'
'We are shortly about to start
judging, so scruff up your mutts.'
Look, there's our van.
'Just bear with me a moment...'
APRIL: And also the green
oak boughs are important...
because they represent love.
FOOTSTEPS THROUGH
UNDERGROWTH
PANTING
Thank you, Mrs Harris and Woody!'
'Now we have Tim Lacey
and...(DEEPLY) Butch.'
'Thank you, Tim.
And they don't come much
scruffier than that,
and that is just the owner.
Thank you, Tim...and Butch.
Now we have the "lurvely"
Jenny Miller
and three year old Wham Bam.'
Aw, don't worry, love, you know what
your dad's like. He won't be long.
APRIL: Been lovely talking to you...
'Thank you, Jenny and Wham Bam!'
HOWLING
Here you are, girls. Now, who's
orange and who's lemon?
I saw you chatting to that copper,
earlier And what's wrong with that?
First doctors, now chief inspectors.
Why don't you try pulling a bit of
ruff for a change?
Alistair, please!
You may have more luck.
There's bourbons and custard creams.
Now, you share them out, girls.
Drink up, Abigail.
(Did you hear what he said?!)
Hello, Mr Barnaby.
Hello, Doctor Wellow.
Been doing a bit of rally cross,
have we?
More to the point,
most of my patients
live on track roads in
the back of beyond.
Can I be of help to you?
I do hope so.
Marion Slade.
There is a possibility that she
might have been murdered.
What?
I say a possibility,
and therefore I want you
to keep this information...
keep it to yourself.
I find this hard to believe
Marion had no enemies
that I know of.
You told me that Marion
was more than a patient,
she was a friend.
Yes.
Anything else?
I need to know.
All right, yes, yes.
We had a bit of a fling, once.
When?
Years ago
I wouldn't harm her.
I can assure you of that.
MOBILE PHONE RINGS
Excuse me.
Barnaby.
'They've found another body, sir.'
(SOBBING)
This is terrible news.
I know.
What the hell is happening to this
village?
I'd like a word with you.
Hello, George.
Tom
Who found him?
Some ramblers, sir.
And there's this.
If that cut his throat
he didn't kill himself.
No, the knife would still
be in his hand.
Don't touch! Only a CID man
would think of that.
If only you could tell us, eh?
Despite what's happened we've still
got a timetable to work to.
We must get on with
promoting the carnival queen.
But surely that can wait.
No, it can't wait!
Tomorrow that photographer is coming
into the village.
All right.
Oh, John,
I don't wish to appear insensitive.
Ursula, would I ever think that
of you?
Mm...
Why have you never married?
It's not my idea of a healthy
lifestyle.
I've prescribed too many
anti depressants
for too many troubled spouses.
Got a problem.
Midsomer Barton's becoming too
complicated for me.
I may have to move on.
Marion Slade and Mark Castle.
What's the connection?
He found her body.
No, no he didn't.
The children found her first.
He was next on the scene,
He says he didn't know
her ???.
DOOR OPENING
Minster Barnaby!
Mister Barnaby! There's something I
feel I must tell you. Which is?
Er, well, it's probably none of my
business,
but John Starkey was late for the
start of the dog show.
Late? Yes. We were all
very worried about him.
He went missing round about the time
that poor Mark was killed.
Where have you been?
On the downs.
At this hour?
I've told you so many times, John.
Do I have to spell it out again?
I like to avoid that village during
Oak Apple bloody Week.
Mark Castle's been killed.
What?
They found him in the wood.
This God awful place!
I hate it.
I may have one or two kids' parties
to do.
Mrs Hurst. She's worth a fortune.
She said she wants to book me
and pass the word round to her
friends. They're all loaded as well.
No.
What do you mean, no?
It's not going to happen.
Not for you.
Oh, come on, Grace.
You're not as funny as
you think you are.
You don't really make people laugh.
Well, they like to laugh at you.
They like doing that.
You see, you're not really the
joker.
You're the joke.
Thanks.
Bloody thanks.
I'll have my supper down the pub.
DOORS SLAM
Thought you might.
RINGING TONE
'This is Doctor Wellow's home
number.
I'm afraid I'm not here to take your
call at the moment
So please leave a message after...'
A single wound to the neck.
Some bruising in the wound, due to
the downward pressure of the cut,
and there were traces of sedative.
A tranquilliser.
Dirathene? Enough to make him
semi conscious. Suzanne.
So, it looks as if the same person
or persons committed both murders.
Sorry, Tom.
Tickets for the Opera.
Opera?!
They say Mark Castle
had his throat cut from ear to ear.
I don't want to talk about it,
Mother.
And his dog was howling
like a banshee.
I really don't
want to talk about it.
Well, you're going to have to talk
about it.
It's not something you can just shut
out.
I mean, it's not like reading a
book.
It's something that happened
here, in our village.
Anyway, I think he was
a waste and a drunk.
And probably a drug addict.
How do you know that?
Because he looked it.
His family are probably glad to get
rid of him.
Mother, I've really had enough.
You never have a good word to
say on anyone in this village.
And...and...and you spy on people.
I do not spy on people.
I merely keep a check on them.
That's the same thing.
And I do it for the common good.
Well, I'm sick and tired of it,
and I'm sick and tired of waiting
on you hand and foot
when I...I...I have my own life
to lead.
What life?
Well... Well...
Well...my piano lessons.
And...and the Little Acorn troop.
And my friends.
You don't have any friends.
Only because I don't get the chance
to see anyone.
I...
Are you feeling ill, April?
Is that what the problem is?
Shall I fetch Doctor Wellow?
I'm sure you'd like that.
I mean, any excuse would do,
wouldn't it?
But you'd be wasting your time.
He has a pick of all the women in
the village.
Why would he bother with you?
(SOBS)
Do you have any idea
who might have done this?
No, not really.
He upset a few people
after he'd had a drink, but...
that's no reason to
kill anyone, is it?
Do you want something
to eat, Sadie?
Or a drink?
Looks a bit sad now.
Yeah.
We met about ten years ago.
We were both on the road together.
We liked it here so we decided to
get married and settle down.
Do you know if Mark had fallen out
with anyone recently?
He'd have the odd argument
in the pub.
But it didn't mean anything.
So, as far as you know,
he had no enemies? No.
In the old days there were a few
bust ups over drugs.
But all the other
travellers left here years ago.
We should have gone with them.
Hello, Mister Starkey.
Not in a rush, are we?
Well, I do have a couple of
appointments.
Business brisk, Mister Starkey?
Mr Starkey, will you tell us where
you were
at the time of the opening of the
dog show yesterday?
I was there, of course.
I was the compere.
Mrs Gooding tells us
there was a bit of a panic on
because you were late for the start.
The cow!
Oh Yes, I was late. I was rounding
up a few more competitors.
Anyone confirm that? Well, there...
there...there's Ruth, of course.
Ruth? Who's Ruth?
Mrs Chalk, the publican's wife
Er...I...stopped to have
a bit of a chat with her.
Long chat?
No, no.
Now, hang on. Mark Castle may have
been a right prat at times,
but I had no reason to...
That bloody Ursula!
She's always doing a witch hunt on
someone or other.
Last week it was the Doctor.
I suppose this week it's me.
Why the Doctor?
Oh, she thinks he's a man
with a past. And is he?
Don't ask me, ask him.
Mr Starkey, can you tell us why
anyone would someone want to steal
one of these photographs from Marion
Slade's place?
I've no idea.
Poor Bella.
What a waste of a life, eh?
She was very gifted, you know.
Wonderful pianist.
April Gooding taught her.
HAMMERING
Sadie!
You've got to eat your dinner,
come on.
I thought you could use some help.
I can put in the extra hours.
Thanks.
I...
Would you like me to get rid of
that?
Please.
You can drop me off at the village.
Sir
I'd like you to run a check
on Doctor Wellow.
Oh, and do one on Alistair Gooding
while you're at it. Yes, sir
# BEETHOVEN: Fur Elise
(HUMS MELODY)
KNOCKING AT DOOR
Hello, again.
Oh. My mother isn't here at
the moment, Mr. Barnaby.
She's at a meeting.
No, April,
it's you I came to talk to.
Me?
Yes.
Can I come in?
Yes, yes, of course
Thank you.
Just through here, Inspector.
Thank you.
Do take a seat.
Thank you.
I wanted to ask you, if I may, about
Bella Slade.
Bella?
Yeah.
You taught her the piano, didn't you?
Yes, I did.
Yes.
Oh, she was a wonderful pupil,
actually.
Sometimes she couldn't attend
lessons because of her illness.
But she had a natural talent.
And of course she was a
carnival queen, wasn't she?
That's right.
Would your mother have chosen her?
I expect so.
A panel decides, but mother always
has the last word.
It's very sad that Bella had to die
so young. Yes.
Do you happen to know
where she's buried?
Oh, she wasn't buried.
She was cremated.
Her ashes are scattered in Barton
woods.
Under the king oak trees.
Yes, that's right.
Yes. She loved the woods.
I wonder who's idea that was?
Sorry?
Cremation.
I suppose it was her mother's.
No. Marion once told me.
It was Doctor Wellow's idea.
He was a close family friend,
you see.
I know some people speak ill of him,
Inspector,
but his heart is in the right place.
I'm sure it is.
Ron! We're going to need that other
barrel on.
Ron! Oh, where are you?
There's no rats down here.
I thought I heard one.
Anyway, that stuff's cruel.
They swell up.
They take a long time to die.
Actually, I wanted to talk to you
about something.
This jealousy of yours. It, it can
be a bit suffocating at times.
It's not jealousy.
Then what is it?
I don't like being made a fool of.
Oh, Ron, I might flirt a bit
behind the bar,
but that's as far as it goes.
Anyway, flirting's all part of being
a good pub landlady, isn't it?
You should know that. It brings in
the punters.
So what would you do if you caught
me with someone else?
I'd kill the pair of you.
PHONE RINGS
Yep.
It's me.
Grace
'How are you?'
'I'm...'
Speak up.
'I'm...'
I'm not happy.
That prick of a husband of yours...
'Still giving you a hard time, eh?'
When you leave here,
will you take me with you?
Will I what?
I want to come with you.
Grace, Grace.
You know that's impossible.
If we lived together
.we'd end up rowing all the time.
'Everyone does.'
We've got something really good
here.
It's fun
'It's not meant to be serious.'
'Grace?'
Grace?
Come on, gentlemen. Get in there.
What are you afraid of?
She's not going to bite.
Excellent. Hold on, Dave.
I've just got an idea.
What about doing one with
the estate agents in the background?
After all, they are our sponsors
And we must have one with
our sponsors, mustn't we? Big smile.
That's it. That's good.
Can you move in a bit, please?
Hello, Mr Gooding.
Vicki, big smile now.
Oh, hi.
Just let me adjust this sash
a little bit.
Pardon my hands, Vicki. Oooh!
Just tilt your head slightly.
(What do you think of
our carnival queen?)
Very nice big smile.
Hold it there.
Better than the last little slag
we had.
Big smile, Vicki.
Now, which one of you
lovely gentlemen
is going to get his hands round
the lovely, luscious Vicki?
What about you, Rob?
No, thanks.
Go on, Rob. She's probably gagging
for it, just like Bella was.
Come on, Alistair.
Come on. Come on down.
You won't forget
what I've done for you
That's great. Hold it there.
Come on, big smile, Vicki.
isn't she, ladies and gentlemen?
The lovely Vicki! Miss Oak Apple.
Yes.
Are you getting that, Dave?
Big smile.
Lovely.
CAMERA WHIRS
I think we've made a mistake
with that carnival queen.
She hasn't got
one ounce of personality.
But your brother insisted
that she was the best looking girl
in the village.
Can't think what he saw in her.
What's the matter with you?
Inspector Barnaby came here.
He was asking questions.
About Bella Slade.
You let him in here in this house?
Well, of course I let him in.
I'm quite capable of
answering the door.
That's about
all you ARE capable of doing.
(TUTS)
If only I had Alistair living here
instead of you
what a difference
that would make to my life.
Do you know something, Mother?
There are times
when I wish you were dead.
You want to know what Alistair
sees in that girl? I'll tell you.
She's young.
He used to hang around Bella Slade
when she was under age.
Did you know that?
That's the way he likes them,
Mother.
Will you be able to cope with that
when he's back here under your roof?
SIREN WAILS
PHONE RINGS
Ah. The information you wanted, sir.
Dr Wellow. No previous convictions.
But there have been
a few allegations
of professional misconduct,
including one of sexual abuse
No evidence to back the allegations.
No. Oh, and there's this.
(READS) Alistair Jarvis Gooding
charged with taking
an under aged girl
out of the possession of her parents
He was 24 at the time. The girl was
willing. She soon returned home.
Only the one conviction?
Yeah, nothing since.
I wonder how well he knew
Bella Slade.
Hi, Ma. What's up?
It's April.
She's turned on me.
What?
Said she wished I was dead.
That's not like her.
She had a go at you too.
Me?
She said you liked young girls.
So what?
I am flesh and blood, after all.
VERY young girls.
The bitch said that?
How could she? Her own brother.
Did you ever had anything to do
with Bella Slade?
Me? No.
I'm telling the truth, Ma.
I mean,
would I lie to you?
You're so like
your dear cousin Dennis.
Oh, you know...
If only he were still alive
you two could have been
such good friends.
Yes, Mark Castle was
a patient of mine.
But I never prescribed sedatives
for the man.
Well, how come
the same class of tranquillisers
was found in his system, Doctor?
Found another source of supply,
I should think.
Then why would he take so many
on top of booze?
How the hell would I know?
We've taken the liberty of
digging into your past, Dr Wellow.
A case of sexual impropriety,
complaints of
professional misconduct.
Those complaints were never
substantiated.
Sit down, please.
They're still on file.
Part of the job
Anyone who dares to be different
must expect to be the target
of that sort of thing.
The day Mark Castle was killed
you said you were out
visiting a patient
somewhere in the back of beyond.
John Prentice.
I look in on him from time to time.
And was he at home when you called?
No. He must have been out.
A bit of a wasted journey, then?
That's also part of the job.
Bella Slade...
Why did you recommend
her body be cremated?
Her mother asked me
to discuss the options.
Why did you recommend
her body be cremated?
Because her mother
couldn't bear the idea
of her beloved child
being laid in the grave.
That's why.
Do you have a locum to look after
your country rounds for you?
Yes.
I suggest you get in touch with him
because I don't want you to leave
the village until further notice.
Not even for emergencies.
Where are you going?
Er...I've got to get to
the supermarket before it closes.
Won't be long.
April?
April?
GIRL: Look. What does it say?
Two minutes, everybody.
On the float
because we're ready to go.
You've got to speed up.
We're about to go now.
Ruth?
Have you seen Dr Wellow?
No. Why?
He promised to give me a hand
when he finished surgery.
KNOCK ON DOOR
April? Do you know what time it is?
It's the carnival procession,
remember?
All your Little Acorns
are waiting for you.
April?
Fluff up, girls.
In formation
Now, someone took one of
those photographs from up there.
Why? Why would anyone do that?
And why do I keep coming back
to this dead girl, eh?
She died of natural causes, sir.
Or do you think we've got some
seriously dodgy doctor on our hands?
Well, he's not like any doctor
I've ever known.
And he knows much more
than he's told us.
Well, she obviously hasn't left it
as a shrine to her daughter.
No, she hasn't.
Sir.
All in the same handwriting.
All addressed to Bella.
She hadn't come home
when I went to bed last night.
April? But she never stays out late.
She did last night.
April...
Your brother's here.
Must have been some night out.
I've had enough of this.
I'm going for doctor Wellow.
No!
five, six, seven, eight
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight
They are all saying
much the same thing, aren't they?
"Can't live without you.
My life was nothing till I met you."
And no signature. Just kisses.
S.W.A.L.K.
That's nice, isn't it? Sweet.
It's teenage.
Sort of innocent
Probably just some local kid
with a crush on the carnival queen.
This one's a bit different.
I wonder if our Dr Wellow still has
a copy of Bella's death certificate.
Now, Phoebe, Lucy, Darren, Joseph,
over here
in front of the steam engine.
Now, be very careful.
You all look terrific.
Now, my canine prize winners,
over here behind the young farmers.
Thank you, thank you.
Young farmers, jump to it We're
about to go Pick up the yokes
Hop along, Justin.
Vicki, you're looking lovely. Just
remember to keep that smile going.
We're doing the full circular route
ending up with the High Street.
Come on, ladies. We're about to go.
Oh, Mr Barnaby.
Are you looking for Dr Wellow?
He didn't turn up for surgery
this morning.
His receptionist has tried calling
him, but no reply,
she's had to get a locum in.
Perhaps he's done a runner.
The curtains are still drawn.
He's probably with one of his women.
DOORBELL
Jones!
(CRIES OUT)
Oh, dear.
Oh, dear. Oh, dear me.
I think you...
I... I think you ought to talk
to my daughter.
# BAND STRIKES UP
You must tell us what happened,
April.
Are you going to tell us?
Has something bad happened?
To whom?
Not to me.
To Dr Wellow?
Did you see this bad thing happen?
No.
No, I didn't.
I heard it.
NIGHT BIRD CALLS
I...
I used to watch.
Watch Dr Wellow?
Watch his house.
Why?
Well...
Because...
because I loved him.
You stupid bloody fool.
I was hoping that...
one day he might...
.give up all those women
and just want me. (SOBS)
I'm sorry. (SOBS)
I'm sorry, Inspector. Sorry. (SOBS)
Um...
Um...
I...
I saw him...
.kissing that lady from the pub
good night.
And then he went inside the house.
And...
And I - I - I was going to go home.
FOOTSTEPS ON GRAVEL
Someone else arrived.
And they were coming through
the garden.
And I saw Dr Wellow
opening the door.
And then this person...
.went inside...
And then I heard
this terrible crashing and I...
No!
And then I heard the Doctor...
(SOBS)
I'm sorry.
FRONT DOOR SHUTS
Mrs Gooding...
will you excuse us for a minute?
I'd like a word alone with April,
please.
April, look at me.
Listen, listen to me.
Yes.
Did you recognise this other person
who went to the house?
Who was it?
# CARNIVAL BAND PLAYS
CHEERING AND APPLAUSE
I thought Dr Wellow
was up to something.
In this village, nothing escapes me.
Bella Slade...
she didn't die of food poisoning,
did she?
No.
No. She died in childbirth.
Well, so it's said.
But no one can prove otherwise now,
can they?
But I'm not really sure
who the father was.
Well, I'm sorry to be one up on you,
Mrs Gooding,
but I know who it was.
SOUNDS OF CARNIVAL
# DRUMBEAT
You take that side. I'm down here.
Give to our collection.
Pieces of eight, pieces of eight.
Yo, ho, ho.
MAN: Bless thee, Bottom.
Bless thee. Thou art translated.
I see their knavery.
this is to make an ass of me
to fright me, if they could.
Jones!
Hello, everybody. Hello.
Jones!
So pretty.
You're a star.
There you are.
GASPS OF HORROR
You don't come anywhere near
to Bella.
And you never will.
(SCREAMS)
CROWD: Stop him!
Get off me!
(YELLS)
Get off!
Robert Pride, I'm arresting you
for the murders of Marion Slade,
Mark Castle and Richard Wellow.
You do not have to say anything,
but it may harm your defence if
you do not mention, when questioned,
something which you later rely on
in court.
Anything you do say may be given
in evidence.
Would you like to tell us
about Bella Slade, Rob?
She was more than just
a school friend, wasn't she?
Eh? Much more.
You loved her, didn't you?
You loved her and she loved you.
Do you recognise these?
We found them at the cottage
in Bella's old room.
She'd kept them all, Rob. Look.
Tied up with little red ribbon.
Didn't want to part with them.
It's all here, Rob.
PAPER RUSTLES
Here.
Your meetings...
Your walks in the wood...
Your love for each other.
So what went wrong?
I'll tell you what went wrong, Rob.
You had a row, didn't you?
Not a big row,
but enough to make her go off
and have a little fling
with someone else.
Only that someone else was older,
wasn't he?
He didn't care too much about "love".
He wanted something else.
And he got it.
I don't want to hear this
I'd say he found it easy.
Bella, a very delicate girl,
she couldn't have put up
much of a resistance.
It was as good as rape, wasn't it,
Rob? I don't want to hear any more!
Well, I'm very sorry, Rob, but
you're going to have to hear this.
This is the last letter
you wrote to Bella.
Look.
"I don't care about what happened...
.so long as you'll have me back.
I just want to look after you...
.and the baby."
Whose baby, Rob?
Sadly, there was no having Bella
back, was there?
And no baby.
Because she died during an abortion.
That's a mother and child dead.
You know who did that abortion,
don't you?
Eh, Rob?
It was Dr Wellow.
And Bella's mum,
she went along with it all
because she was having an affair
with Dr Wellow.
That must have angered you a bit,
eh, Rob?
I mean, if you can't trust your local
doctor, who can you trust, eh?
So you decided to kill him.
Called round to his house just as
Ruth Chalk was leaving. Am I right?
But unfortunately for you,
someone was watching.
DOORBELL
Hey, Rob.
(YELLS)
So whose baby was it
that Dr Wellow killed?
All right, Rob...
The man who seduced Bella...
would you care to give us his name,
please?
It was Mark Castle, wasn't it?
He used to boast about it
when he was in the pub drunk.
Your friend and employer?
He's some friend, eh (?)
Hey, Mark. Fancy a drink?
No, I've just been to the pub.
I've got to get those oak boughs in
or Helen'll kill me.
I've got a bottle of Scotch
in the house.
All right. Just do one.
Or two!
You drugged him
before you killed him, didn't you?
And you used capsules you'd taken
from Marion Slade's house.
The Dirathene.
BULLARD: It's not usually seen
as a poisoning agent.
But in some cases,
it could induce paranoia,
disturbed thoughts.
People hear voices.
So it was very easy to follow him
into the wood that you knew so well.
BIRD CALLS
You waited till the drugs
knocked him out
and then you killed him
with his own knife.
DOG BARKS
And so you killed the man
who'd boasted the child was his.
But it wasn't his, was it, Rob?
It was yours.
And you knew that.
But what I don't understand...
.is what started all this off now.
What made you decide to punish
Bella's mother
eight years on?
You doctored her capsules,
didn't you?
I'd finished the gardening
for the day.
She was making coffee.
And she let me use the bathroom.
Before I went upstairs,
I nicked a photo of Bella.
I knew she took
those tranquillisers.
I thought, if I gave her enough...
MARION: Coffee's ready.
.. that'd be it.
JONES: But the drugs
didn't kill her, did they?
They just made her hallucinate.
So later that night,
when you went back to the cottage,
you found her running down the lane
Where do you think you're going?
They're bringing back
the carnival queen, Mrs Slade.
You shouldn't have let them do that.
MUFFLED SCREAMS
So that was the spur.
You killed Marion Slade because
there could never be another Bella,
could there? Ever?
(SCREAMS)
You shouldn't have let her die!
You shouldn't have let her die!
And once you'd decided,
you did to them all
what you'd wanted to do
for eight very long years.
What me and Bella had was good.
It was pure,
and those bastards killed her.
They deserved to die.
What a day. What a terrible day
for this village.
Then again, why should you care?
Nothing ever matters to you.
BIRDSONG
I've arranged for
statements to be made, sir.
Good.
# PIANO: Fur Elise
Sounds like life goes on
in Midsomer Barton.
Yes.