Murdoch Mysteries (2008–…): Season 3, Episode 6 - This One Goes to Eleven - full transcript
When a famous Rembrandt nude is stolen while it is in transit on a moving elevator, Murdoch, who was present during the theft, finds himself asking how, not who.
It's an excellent likeness
of James Pendrick,
wouldn't you agree, Willie?
Excellent, yes.
But the building itself
is a far better portrait of the man.
Solid steel, reinforced
concrete skeleton.
Gearless traction electric elevators
and a full 11 storeys.
Julia, could you imagine
anything so grand in Toronto?
William, it's breathtaking.
Oh, breathtaking, yes.
No more masonry wall,
load transference ratios...
Bathsheba At Her Bath
is a true vessel of tragedy.
The most exquisite nude
of Rembrandt's career.
We are indebted to Mrs Pendrick
for sharing this jewel with us
at this most prestigious
of showings. Signore Carducci,
il moto gentile.
James and I are delighted
that an art connoisseur
like yourself could join us.
I came to Canada in search of rising
young talent, but what do I find?
A European masterpiece endowing
its light upon the colonies.
Really, do we have to endure
this asinine twaddle?
Grovelling over long-dead painters.
Such impertinence, such fire!
Art is a living, breathing organism.
What is this snobbish obsession
with anything ancient?
My dear Burt, the difference between
the dead masters and you moderns
is that the dead
have better manners.
Oh, William, it's simply stunning.
See how Rembrandt made equal use
of agitated and serene brushstrokes.
She's beautiful, and haunting.
Note the rich, ochre pigment
of the robe.
So rare to see a nude that portrays
a woman as a whole person.
An astute observation.
Dr Julia Ogden, is it not?
Why, yes. Mrs Pendrick.
Your father talks incessantly
about your accomplishments.
Well, not to me!
It's so good of you to join us.
And this gentleman?
Detective William Murdoch,
of the Toronto Constabulary.
I was told they'd send their finest
to keep an eye on my painting.
It's an honour to guard
such a masterpiece, Mrs Pendrick.
I take it you're familiar with
Rembrandt's work, Detective?
To some small extent.
Then you're aware that his model
was Hendrickje Stoffels?
Yes, his mistress of many years,
I believe.
Correct.
Perhaps that's why
he was able to evoke
so much compassion on the canvas.
Such raw intimacy.
Perhaps.
How much longer is this soiree
supposed to last?
About another hour, I think.
Must be some painting if Pendrick's
own security isn't enough.
A priceless painting of a woman
sans clothing, I'm told.
Seems a shame to hide it
away in the Pendrick mansion
where no-one else can see it.
Once again, thank you all for
coming. It has been our pleasure
to share such a treasure with you.
Now it's time to put
this fine lady to bed.
Clarkson, thank you.
Here she comes.
It's moving at quite a speed.
State-of-the-art technology,
so Detective Murdoch tells me.
I'm glad it's not me up there.
I get dizzy standing on a ladder.
I bet you could overcome that,
Higgins.
The idea would be to start
with a diminutive ladder,
then each day progressing to
a slightly larger ladder until...
You had an excess of ladders.
She's something fast, all right.
LIFT DINGS
My God.
I think he's dead.
And where's the Rembrandt?
Sir, I don't understand
how it's possible.
The elevator did not stop, I swear.
Paintings, priceless or otherwise,
don't just disappear.
Sir, I watched the dial
with my own eyes. As did I.
In the meantime, George, as the
building search gets underway...
You'll need statements
from the guests, did they see
anything untoward and such.
Thank you, George.
What have you, doctor?
A small knife wound
below the shoulder blade,
no doubt piercing the heart.
He died instantly?
Within seconds, I should think.
The killer, or killers most likely,
could have been on top of the car,
and entered and exited
through the hatch.
Nothing up here.
But the opening is far too small
for that painting to fit through.
Could it have been
cut from the frame?
Any attempt to fold or roll a
painting as old as a Rembrandt would
destroy it and render it worthless.
It would have had to be taken
in its frame.
Dear God, how could this happen?
Poor Clarkson. I don't understand,
my security was impeccable.
Excuse me, doctor.
Mr Pendrick? Detective William
Murdoch of the Toronto Constabulary.
Detective, who would do such
a thing, murder an innocent man?
It's clearly the work of
brazen professionals.
However, I assure you, they will be
caught and your painting recovered.
I will need a list of
all your staff, as well as
the caterers, musicians, waiters.
Of course. Whoever orchestrated
this heinous crime had to have
access to the building.
As well as a detailed understanding
of the physical structure
and a schedule of this evening's
activities.
You shall have everything you need.
If you'll excuse me, I must break
the terrible news to my wife.
Sir?
You're needed on the third floor.
I think we've discovered
how they escaped.
Right then, Henry.
Get photographs and finger marks.
And collect the rope.
My desk's covered with telegrams
from broadsheets around the world
wanting to know how a masterpiece
disappears into thin air.
It didn't disappear.
A logical explanation will surface.
These thieves have got
a bloody cheek. Why the lift?
The elevator ride was the only time
the Rembrandt wasn't
under direct police watch.
Makes sense. Scared of us.
And the guard, was he part of it?
Frederick Clarkson, a family man
with impeccable credentials.
I'm convinced he was not involved.
So the motive - ransom?
No demands have arrived. Hmmm.
Exactly how much is
this painting worth?
A Rembrandt, Signore.
Its value to civilisation cannot be
equated in dollars and lira.
Signore Luca Carducci
at your service.
Inspector Thomas Brackenreid.
The pleasure is mine.
Apparently. I met Signore Carducci
at the unveiling last night.
He represents several European
galleries and is renowned
in international art circles.
Ah. Wonderful. I've asked him
for his expert advice.
Anything I can do to help
secure Bathsheba's return.
So in crass monetary terms, please,
Mr Carducci, how much is she worth?
A Rembrandt painted in 1654?
$40,000, perhaps more.
So it could be ransomed. Or sold to
some unscrupulous private collector.
I would think a work of art
as famous and costly as a Rembrandt
would be hard to sell.
In this provincial town? Absolutely.
So the thieves would want to get it
out of Toronto. But how? A fence?
Not here,
but there are such characters
in the international art world.
Where would they try to sell it?
Europe? Possibly, but more likely
New York or Buffalo.
The nouveau riche have a voracious
appetite for acquisition.
Thank you.
You've been very helpful.
You're most welcome,
and good luck, Signore.
Bloody arty types.
There is another possibility
here, sir.
Mr Pendrick could have
orchestrated his own theft.
Insurance fraud?
But why? The bugger's filthy rich.
Nevertheless, an avenue
we should explore. Agreed.
"Bathsheba At Her Bath".
A lady's bathing ritual
should not be spied upon.
Mr Pendrick? Ah, Detective.
Excuse me. I can't stop
thinking about poor Clarkson -
keeping the mind occupied helps.
Indeed. What are you working on?
It's a mechanism that will drive
a model of the solar system,
based on Eisinga's work.
The Dutchman who created
the planetarium? Yes, in 1781.
It's astonishing - he calculated
the movement of the planets
to an accuracy within seconds.
Fascinating man.
Amateur astronomer, wood carver...
Eisinga's model filled
an entire room. Mine will fit
into the palm of your hand.
It's remarkable. My wife took me to
a flea circus, I thought, "Why not
"combine the two ideas? Produce a
planetarium on a minuscule scale."
I myself am fascinated by the idea
that one day, tiny electrical
circuits will be capable
of calculating vast
mathematical algorithms.
Yes, you understand. Miniaturisation
is the key to the future.
Yet you designed
the tallest building in Toronto.
That thing? Obsolete
before the last rivet went in.
I'm already developing new alloys
that are lighter and stronger.
Now, have you any idea
who murdered Clarkson
and made off with the Rembrandt?
It's early stages still.
There's a strong possibility
you'll receive a ransom note.
If one arrives,
I will contact you immediately.
But surely, you didn't come here
to ask me the obvious.
No, I didn't.
I take it you had an insurance
policy on the painting?
I see.
Of course you have to ask,
I'd expect nothing less.
Yes, the Rembrandt was insured.
I'll need to see the policy.
I'll have it sent along.
Though I'm confident
your scientific mind will lead to
the recovery of the Rembrandt.
Thank you.
One more thing.
Clearly the Rembrandt
would be a coveted possession.
There was quite a frenzied
bidding process in Vienna.
Do you have any idea who
the other potential buyers
may have been?
That's a question for my wife.
The art world is her domain.
Where might I find Mrs Pendrick?
I believe she's by the pool.
Oh, excuse me.
I'm sorry.
Why hello, Detective Murdoch.
Perhaps another time would be
better, I'll... Nonsense.
We are trying to work here.
It's all right, Burt. Detective
Murdoch's investigation is far more
important than my portrait.
Rembrandt stolen, world ends.
Mr Lightman is very passionate
about modern art.
And his opinions, aren't you, Burt?
How can I help you, Detective?
Your husband tells me your purchase
of the Rembrandt caused quite a stir
in the art world.
My competitors pushed the bidding
higher and higher,
certain I'd lose my nerve.
Any idea who these
prospective buyers were?
All the prestigious galleries.
A few well-heeled individuals.
It was quite scandalous for
a woman to secure the painting.
Were any of them disgruntled enough
to steal it?
What a terrible thought.
But I suppose.
I'll need a list of names,
if possible.
Yes, of course.
Ice water?
Thank you.
Your comments last night
on Rembrandt's technique
tell me you're an art lover.
I was educated by Jesuits.
They use the Classics as hooks
to capture our young souls.
However, I'm less familiar
with the moderns.
Then allow me to
contribute to your education.
You must see Burt's work.
Oh, I... Mrs Pendrick,
the painting is not yet finished.
I must insist that he...
Don't be so precious, Burt.
Detective Murdoch is interested.
What's your first thought?
It's...a challenging composition.
I use only primary colours,
to better highlight the dynamic
tension between geometric figures.
Burt's style will light
the way of the future.
Then I'll be sure to
pay closer attention.
The Pendricks made quite an
impression when they first arrived.
Father says James Pendrick is brash,
but he never liked new ideas
upsetting his world order.
Mr Pendrick is something
of a revolutionary thinker.
So you and he are quite like-minded?
His wife seems refreshingly modern,
don't you think?
Yes. Quite modern.
Has your post-mortem
determined anything? Indeed.
As I suspected, the victim died from
a single stab wound to the heart.
But here's what's interesting.
The guard's right ankle was broken.
That's strange.
I saw him walk into the elevator.
There was no evidence of injury.
Agreed. Yet it is broken.
So how could he break an ankle
inside an elevator?
Could it have fallen?
The elevator didn't fall.
But the guard did.
Sir, how did he fall in an elevator?
He didn't fall in the elevator,
he fell into the elevator.
Thank you.
I'm not following you, sir.
There were two elevator cars.
Two elevator cars?
See?
Here. These are screw holes.
A second, false car
was built on top of this one.
So the guard and the painting
enter the false car.
As the elevator makes it way down,
the thieves, stationed in
the car below, open the hatch.
The guard falls into the car.
In doing so, he breaks his ankle.
The thieves murder him
and climb up into the false car.
The dead guard then continues his
journey down to the first floor.
So Constable Higgins and I discover
him in the real elevator car,
everyone assumes the crime
occurred there.
And while we're busying ourselves
searching down below,
the thieves and the painting
got out here, on the second floor.
I think I can take it
from there, sir.
They then dismantle
the false elevator car,
stash the materials somewhere nearby,
then go up to the third floor
where they escape down the rope.
No, George, the rope was a ruse.
They wanted us to think they escaped
from the third floor so we would
focus our search there. Why that?
How did they get the painting out of
a building surrounded by policemen?
Well, I don't imagine
they could, sir.
Precisely, meaning they didn't
leave the building immediately.
They laid low,
right under our noses
until the commotion passed.
Yes, and once we had left...
They slip off into the night.
That's a nervy pair of thieves, sir.
Yes, it's an ingenious plan.
And I think we've found
their hiding place.
George, have you your skeleton key?
The remains of the false elevator.
So, the thieves
removed the painting from its frame,
keeping it mounted
on the stretcher.
Waited for the coast to clear
before they made their getaway.
I agree with part of your theory,
sir.
Oh? What part don't you agree with?
The getaway part, actually.
Point taken, George.
Sir, if the thieves are dead,
who has the painting?
Both thieves died
in the same extraordinary manner.
A sharp, thin object
pierced the right eardrum, entering
the soft tissue of the brain.
They died of cerebral haemorrhage.
Murder weapon?
I'll have to examine both brains
to get an exact description.
Thank you, that would be
most helpful. Time of death?
I'd estimate they died in
the early hours of the morning,
between 3 and 4am.
Any defensive wounds? None.
So either the killer managed to
surprise two ruthless thieves...
Or they let their guard down.
But why would they do that?
Sir, do you have a moment?
Yes, of course, George.
I'm just inspecting
the dead thieves' clothing.
We followed up on the rope used in
the getaway. It's commonly obtained.
No merchants recall selling it
to anyone matching the thieves'
description. Finger marks?
Sorry, sir. I guess they used gloves.
That's unfortunate. Thank you.
Sir, I can't stop thinking
what a terrible way to die,
to have a sharp object
plunged into your ear canal.
Indeed. I see the killer's logic.
He needed to access the brain
without interceding bone matter.
Still, the ear seems such a delicate
part of the body. Yes, it does.
He could have gone up
through the nose, I suppose.
But that wouldn't be much better,
would it?
Then there's the eye socket.
That's even worse.
You'd see the weapon coming
towards you... Thank you, George.
That's quite enough.
Forgive me, sir. Terrible business.
George, did you speak with
the catering company? I did.
They reported no uniforms missing.
Then how did the thieves
obtain these?
I suppose they had them sewn up.
The company's uniforms were made
here in Toronto, were they not?
Yes, sir. Goldberg Tailors on
Spadina. Have you found something?
Yes, George. I believe
the art thieves were from Chicago.
Jonah Watson and Cyril Hughes.
Professional thieves
wanted in Chicago for
the armed robbery of several banks.
Dangerous characters but someone
managed to kill the pair of them.
I believe they were murdered
when they handed over the painting
to whomever hired them.
The partner who supplied them
with all the inside information.
Exactly, the mastermind behind
the theft. And then this mastermind
double crosses them.
Tying up all loose ends.
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Pendrick still
hasn't received a note.
I think we can
safely rule out ransom.
So where did the painting go?
No doubt on its way
to a private collector.
Actually, sirs, it might be that
your earlier instincts were correct.
I've already told you
I had the Rembrandt insured.
But you didn't mention you increased
the policy to $200,000.
The painting's value is
one fifth of that.
Do you see this Goya?
I paid $300 for it five years ago.
What do you wager it's worth today?
I suspect its value
has increased somewhat. Tenfold.
I've had offers of $3,000 and more,
but I like this one - it relaxes me.
And I'm told it matches the room.
You insure art for
what some fool may pay for it,
not what it's worth in the moment.
Is that what your art collection is
to you, Mr Pendrick, an investment?
I'm afraid it doesn't captivate
my mind as it does my wife's.
Shame, really.
Common interests
solidify a marriage.
And what woman do you know
has the least interest
in steel and concrete?
At any rate,
the value of the Rembrandt is moot
since I'm sure you'll recover it.
Is there anything else, Detective?
Yes, I'm wondering if you know
where Mr Carducci is.
Carducci. I can't be sure,
though I understand he takes an
interest in young, male painters.
Try Burt Lightman's studio.
I believe it's on the esplanade.
EXOTIC MUSIC PLAYS
CHATTERING
Detective Murdoch.
What a pleasant surprise.
Good day, Mrs Pendrick.
I see you're taking your interest
in the moderns seriously.
Actually, I'm here to see
Signore Carducci.
I believe he's monopolising
my favourite painter.
Signore Carducci, you're much
in demand. Detective Murdoch.
Have you brought us good news
about our lovely Bathsheba?
They're welcome to that old relic.
My dear Burt. Someday,
you'll be the old master
to our great-grandchildren.
You're too kind. No, Signora
Pendrick is right. This gentleman
will soon be the talk of all Europe.
Are you leaving us, Burt?
I'm going to Paris. Signore Carducci
will introduce me in all the right
circles. How marvellous.
So how can I be of assistance,
Detective?
Mrs Pendrick gave us a list of the
buyers who coveted the Rembrandt.
Thinking if they couldn't purchase
it, they would have it by whatever
means necessary. Precisely.
However, we've cleared most of them.
I was hoping you might have
some thoughts, given your
experience in the art world.
It sounds like you are, how do you
say it, grasping the straw?
I admit I seem to be quickly
running out of options.
I can most certainly prepare
a list for you, but I fear the
Rembrandt already hangs elsewhere.
Well, thank you for your time,
Signore Carducci.
Of course.
Do you like my portrait?
I'll admit a certain fascination
with Mr Lightman's style.
Well then, it's yours.
Just what is that?
A Burtrand Lightman.
A brave choice, sir.
I must say, there is something
strangely beguiling about this
new non-representational form.
It's not something I would have
chosen. We should put it up.
No, George. That won't be necessary.
But sir, it demands it.
Better light over here.
You really want to stare at
that, Murdoch?
It does have merit, sir, a step
into the art of the future.
Art of the future? My lad
could do better, and he's seven.
Anyway, it looks upside down.
I beg to differ, sir. This triangle
should be pointing upwards.
Like a pyramid.
It is the pyramids, right, sir?
What do you think, Murdoch, do you
know what the painting is about?
The moderns believe interpretation
lies in the eye of the beholder.
And just what is
your interpretation?
Er...
..It's a pyramid.
Detective, you're needed.
It's right up here, sir.
Burt Lightman, the artist.
The cause of death
appears the same as the robbers'.
But why on earth would someone
murder a struggling artist?
It would appear there's
no honour amongst thieves.
There's no question, Lightman
was killed by the same weapon
used to murder the two thieves.
You're quite sure? The shape of
the weapon was quite distinctive.
Same weapon, eh? Sounds like another
loose end being tied up to me.
Suggesting Mr Lightman
was part of the theft.
But what role does a modern artist
play in the theft of an old master?
Lightman despised the Old Masters.
Exactly, doctor. He was more likely
to burn it in an act of public
art protest than profit from it.
Perhaps. Or perhaps the man
did protest too much.
Sir!
Some of Lightman's work. Before
his geometric phase, I presume.
Seems he was quite talented
in a classical sense.
Classical?
I use only primary colours...
Berries and leaves, why that?
A vegetarian, perhaps?
Perhaps.
George, pack all of these up,
along with the sketches.
Sir.
What have you got there, Murdoch?
Pigments, sir. Used in making paint.
I know what pigments are.
What have they to do with this case?
Mr Lightman went to a great deal
of trouble to create these pigments.
Perhaps he wanted special colours
for his special paintings.
Yes, but Lightman only painted
in primary colours. No ochre. Mmm.
Well, I admit that is interesting.
What's more interesting,
this ochre colour is derived
from buckthorn berries
commonly used by the Old Masters,
particularly Rembrandt.
Why did Lightman want to make
the same pigment as Rembrandt?
Unless he wanted to paint like him.
You are correct, Detective,
this is the exact shade of ochre
Rembrandt used. Why do you ask?
I believe Lightman was either
about to, or had painted,
a forgery of Bathsheba At Her Bath.
That is ridiculous.
To copy a Rembrandt requires skills
Signore Lightman did not possess.
I believe he did.
We found sketches
in Mr Lightman's studio.
Clearly Mr Lightman
was classically trained.
So, let us say Burtrand
did paint a forgery.
What use is a worthless copy
to the thieves when they have
the priceless original?
What if the theft of the Rembrandt
was staged in order to sell
an unsuspecting buyer a forgery?
But any buyer would expect such a
well-known painting to be a forgery.
Even if the Rembrandt had been
stolen in a sensational robbery?
Ah, I see.
Then the buyer could conceive
they were purchasing the original.
But what if the new owner
discovers the truth?
That's the beauty of the plan.
The buyer has no recourse.
He has knowingly bought stolen
property and therefore cannot
report it to the authorities.
Incredible.
It is brilliant in its conception.
So a viable scenario then?
Indeed. Good.
Now all I have to do is prove it.
There must be some mistake.
Perhaps Burt stumbled on something
and was murdered as a result.
I'm afraid the evidence points to
only one conclusion, Mrs Pendrick.
I can't believe he was involved.
How could he betray me like this?
He was a frequent guest in my house.
Do you recall him paying
much attention to the Rembrandt
when he visited?
He was always free
to study my collection.
Could he have had time enough
to forge it? I don't see how.
The Rembrandt was on loan
to a gallery in New York
for most of the past year.
It returned home shortly
before the exhibition in Toronto.
I see. Thank you for your time.
I'll see myself out. Such a waste.
Though we have his work
to remember him by. Yes.
Who knows how much my portrait
might be worth in
a couple of years, Detective?
I do hope you're enjoying it.
It hangs in my office.
I can think of no higher compliment.
Hello, Julia.
William, there you are.
I have news of the murder weapon.
By mapping a cross section
of the victims' brains,
I've ascertained the weapon to be
an eighth of an inch in diameter,
and approximately five inches long.
Very unusual.
Perhaps something like a...
woodworking awl.
A rather specialized murder weapon,
don't you think?
Both efficient and precise when
thrust into the ear of the victim.
Indeed.
Thank you. It's my pleasure.
This painting... Yes.
It's a Burtrand Lightman.
I see. Well, it's truly shocking.
What makes you say that?
I believe we're looking at a woman
in a rather intimate pose.
Really?
I'd concluded it was a landscape...
A landscape? Perhaps inspired by the
stark beauty of the Canadian Shield.
Which is very...stark.
William, look again.
Surely the red triangle...
A pyramid. A pyramid?
On the Canadian Shield?
William, don't be obtuse.
It's the torso of a woman.
Sir?
I have that information you wanted.
Ah. I must be getting back.
I'll leave you to enjoy
your "landscape".
George. What did you find out
about Mr Lightman?
As you know,
the Rembrandt spent eight months
of last year in New York.
Funnily enough,
so did Burtrand Lightman.
Did he now? He secured a position
at the very gallery that
was displaying the Rembrandt.
Really? Night watchman.
So, Mr Lightman goes to New York,
paints the forgery. Our mastermind
has already lined up a buyer.
The grand theft is staged in Toronto.
And once the forgery is painted,
Mr Lightman is no longer needed
by the mastermind. He's killed.
But then, sir, if Lightman
created the forgery in New York,
why are the supplies to make
the pigments here in Toronto?
A very good question, George.
Well then, also,
how did the mastermind
plan on getting the painting
out of Toronto to the buyer?
Are you leaving us, Burt?
I'm going to Paris. How marvellous.
George, I'll need you to
pay a visit to the docks.
You found no baggage listed
under Burtrand Lightman's name?
There was nothing
in the manifest, sir.
Lightman would have transported
the forgery with him to Paris.
Perhaps the painting
was to go on a later passage?
No, he wouldn't risk it
being lost in transit.
We're missing something here.
Sir, by all means,
have a look for yourself.
His name is not on the manifest, sir.
No. But we should see
what Miss Hendrickje Stoffels
is shipping more than two centuries
after her death.
Hendrickje who? Hendrickje Stoffels.
Rembrandt's mistress,
and model of many years.
So, now we're an art historian,
are we?
The Bathsheba.
An excellent copy.
Sir?
It appears she has a twin sister.
The lad's been a busy boy.
These are quite remarkable.
Mr Lightman certainly was brazen.
Why sell one forgery
when you can move...five?
Four, George.
Four, sir?
Murdoch, there are five.
Yes, but only four are copies.
I believe this one
is the original Rembrandt.
Are you sure this is the original?
Because they all look alike to me.
Many painters
have a signature technique.
Rembrandt used a single layer
of coarsely-sieved quartz
as a canvas primer.
I've examined the medium
used on this canvas,
and it is indeed quartz.
Proving what?
This is Canada, Murdoch.
You can't go anywhere without
tripping over bloody quartz.
Not this type. However,
it is commonly found in Holland.
There is no question,
this is the Rembrandt.
Think of it, sir.
We are standing here, just as
he did, assessing his masterpiece
to pronounce it done and perfect.
Sir? Thousands of dollars
for some bare-arsed floozy
having her feet washed.
How did Lightman get it?
He had unfettered access
to the Pendrick collection.
I believe he switched the original
for a forgery he made in New York
on one such occasion.
So the painting exhibited at
the Pendrick Building, stolen by
the thieves, was a forgery.
So it would seem.
The sneaky little sod.
Do you think Lightman
took it to sell himself? Perhaps.
But he didn't account for the
treachery of his partner in crime.
Who killed him before he realized
Lightman had the original. Exactly.
So who's behind it all, Murdoch?
For the swindle to work,
the buyers must believe they
are purchasing the original.
So the original can't resurface
until the forgeries
have been delivered. Correct.
I believe it's time for Bathsheba
to return to her rightful owner.
You have exceeded my expectations,
Detective.
My wife will be delighted to see the
Rembrandt within these walls again.
Before you speak to her,
I have invited Signore Carducci
to authenticate the painting.
A mere formality. Detective,
no-one can replicate the master.
Agree, but I would feel more
assured we have the original
if you would take a closer look.
I cannot believe the audacity.
Is something wrong?
This is a forgery.
An excellent one, but...
Are you absolutely sure?
Look at the eyes.
The window to Bathsheba's soul.
The forger cannot capture
Rembrandt's depth of emotion.
But I don't understand...
This,
this is surely as great a crime.
To have her back once more
only to see her taken away.
I am terribly sorry to have raised
your hopes, sir. It is late.
I have a pressing engagement.
Good evening, gentlemen.
It's all right, Detective. If it
weren't for Signore Carducci, I too
would have judged this the original.
Interesting you should say that.
Please excuse me,
there is a matter I must attend to.
Yes, of course.
Mannaggia!
So that's where you hid it.
Detective... I, uh...
You what? Can explain?
I doubt that very much, Mr Carducci.
I just watched you declare
the real Rembrandt a forgery.
There was only one reason
to do that.
To maintain the swindle
you'd orchestrated. I admit nothing.
Except perhaps
going to a great deal of trouble
to steal a worthless fake.
Burt Lightman exchanged the
Rembrandt for one of his forgeries
while it was in the Pendrick home.
You, sir,
are a thief and a murderer.
But to orchestrate this
you had help.
Where did you get
the inside information you needed?
The building plans,
the movement of the painting?
Someone else had a hand in this.
Who was it?
Who are you working for?
As you already know, Detective, I am
a professional who abhors loose ends.
GUNSHOT
A rather clever design,
don't you think?
Carducci used this to kill
the two thieves and Lightman.
And almost you as well, sir.
Thank goodness Mr Pendrick
arrived when he did.
Quite impeccable timing on his part.
What do you mean?
There are pieces of this puzzle
Carducci took to the grave.
Like what? How did he know
the exact movements of the painting?
How did he orchestrate
the complex theft without
detailed inside information?
His hired guns
were disguised as caterers.
He had access to the building
days in advance.
But consider this.
Once forgeries are delivered
and the money is collected,
the original mysteriously reappears,
only one man benefits.
Pendrick? He'd have his money
and his original,
and no-one would suspect him.
You've caught the killer,
found the Rembrandt...
And prevented one of the biggest
art frauds in history.
Excellent point, Doctor.
Isn't that enough for you, Murdoch?
I will miss her.
But after such a dreadful turn
of events, I couldn't bear to have
the painting in the house any more.
I have persuaded James
to donate her to the Louvre. Oh.
That's very philanthropic of you.
But you will be needing
a replacement, Mrs Pendrick.
Might I suggest your
Burt Lightman portrait?
Really? You would part with it?
It would offer a refreshing modern
perspective to your collection.
That's very observant of you,
Detective.
I accept your offer,
but I trust you will come
and visit it from time to time?
It would be my pleasure.
Detective Murdoch. Congratulations.
Things couldn't have
turned out better.
Mr Pendrick. I believe
some of the credit goes to you.
I would not be here today were it
not for your timely intervention.
Pure luck, I assure you.
Tell me, what brought you
to the building last night?
I often go up there to look at
the night sky. Really?
What's the point of owning
the tallest building in Toronto
if you don't avail yourself
of its advantages?
And the gun?
I never venture out at night
without a firearm.
Detective, you seem unsettled.
In an odd way, Signore Carducci
and I are very similar.
We both dislike loose ends.
Loose ends?
With Signore Carducci dead,
we'll never be able to ascertain
the identity of his employer.
The true mastermind
behind this crime.
And what makes you think
he wasn't the true mastermind?
It's a theory. For now.
Mrs Pendrick, Mr Pendrick.
I bid you good day.
Good day, Detective Murdoch.
I trust our paths will cross again.
I will look forward to that.
Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd
of James Pendrick,
wouldn't you agree, Willie?
Excellent, yes.
But the building itself
is a far better portrait of the man.
Solid steel, reinforced
concrete skeleton.
Gearless traction electric elevators
and a full 11 storeys.
Julia, could you imagine
anything so grand in Toronto?
William, it's breathtaking.
Oh, breathtaking, yes.
No more masonry wall,
load transference ratios...
Bathsheba At Her Bath
is a true vessel of tragedy.
The most exquisite nude
of Rembrandt's career.
We are indebted to Mrs Pendrick
for sharing this jewel with us
at this most prestigious
of showings. Signore Carducci,
il moto gentile.
James and I are delighted
that an art connoisseur
like yourself could join us.
I came to Canada in search of rising
young talent, but what do I find?
A European masterpiece endowing
its light upon the colonies.
Really, do we have to endure
this asinine twaddle?
Grovelling over long-dead painters.
Such impertinence, such fire!
Art is a living, breathing organism.
What is this snobbish obsession
with anything ancient?
My dear Burt, the difference between
the dead masters and you moderns
is that the dead
have better manners.
Oh, William, it's simply stunning.
See how Rembrandt made equal use
of agitated and serene brushstrokes.
She's beautiful, and haunting.
Note the rich, ochre pigment
of the robe.
So rare to see a nude that portrays
a woman as a whole person.
An astute observation.
Dr Julia Ogden, is it not?
Why, yes. Mrs Pendrick.
Your father talks incessantly
about your accomplishments.
Well, not to me!
It's so good of you to join us.
And this gentleman?
Detective William Murdoch,
of the Toronto Constabulary.
I was told they'd send their finest
to keep an eye on my painting.
It's an honour to guard
such a masterpiece, Mrs Pendrick.
I take it you're familiar with
Rembrandt's work, Detective?
To some small extent.
Then you're aware that his model
was Hendrickje Stoffels?
Yes, his mistress of many years,
I believe.
Correct.
Perhaps that's why
he was able to evoke
so much compassion on the canvas.
Such raw intimacy.
Perhaps.
How much longer is this soiree
supposed to last?
About another hour, I think.
Must be some painting if Pendrick's
own security isn't enough.
A priceless painting of a woman
sans clothing, I'm told.
Seems a shame to hide it
away in the Pendrick mansion
where no-one else can see it.
Once again, thank you all for
coming. It has been our pleasure
to share such a treasure with you.
Now it's time to put
this fine lady to bed.
Clarkson, thank you.
Here she comes.
It's moving at quite a speed.
State-of-the-art technology,
so Detective Murdoch tells me.
I'm glad it's not me up there.
I get dizzy standing on a ladder.
I bet you could overcome that,
Higgins.
The idea would be to start
with a diminutive ladder,
then each day progressing to
a slightly larger ladder until...
You had an excess of ladders.
She's something fast, all right.
LIFT DINGS
My God.
I think he's dead.
And where's the Rembrandt?
Sir, I don't understand
how it's possible.
The elevator did not stop, I swear.
Paintings, priceless or otherwise,
don't just disappear.
Sir, I watched the dial
with my own eyes. As did I.
In the meantime, George, as the
building search gets underway...
You'll need statements
from the guests, did they see
anything untoward and such.
Thank you, George.
What have you, doctor?
A small knife wound
below the shoulder blade,
no doubt piercing the heart.
He died instantly?
Within seconds, I should think.
The killer, or killers most likely,
could have been on top of the car,
and entered and exited
through the hatch.
Nothing up here.
But the opening is far too small
for that painting to fit through.
Could it have been
cut from the frame?
Any attempt to fold or roll a
painting as old as a Rembrandt would
destroy it and render it worthless.
It would have had to be taken
in its frame.
Dear God, how could this happen?
Poor Clarkson. I don't understand,
my security was impeccable.
Excuse me, doctor.
Mr Pendrick? Detective William
Murdoch of the Toronto Constabulary.
Detective, who would do such
a thing, murder an innocent man?
It's clearly the work of
brazen professionals.
However, I assure you, they will be
caught and your painting recovered.
I will need a list of
all your staff, as well as
the caterers, musicians, waiters.
Of course. Whoever orchestrated
this heinous crime had to have
access to the building.
As well as a detailed understanding
of the physical structure
and a schedule of this evening's
activities.
You shall have everything you need.
If you'll excuse me, I must break
the terrible news to my wife.
Sir?
You're needed on the third floor.
I think we've discovered
how they escaped.
Right then, Henry.
Get photographs and finger marks.
And collect the rope.
My desk's covered with telegrams
from broadsheets around the world
wanting to know how a masterpiece
disappears into thin air.
It didn't disappear.
A logical explanation will surface.
These thieves have got
a bloody cheek. Why the lift?
The elevator ride was the only time
the Rembrandt wasn't
under direct police watch.
Makes sense. Scared of us.
And the guard, was he part of it?
Frederick Clarkson, a family man
with impeccable credentials.
I'm convinced he was not involved.
So the motive - ransom?
No demands have arrived. Hmmm.
Exactly how much is
this painting worth?
A Rembrandt, Signore.
Its value to civilisation cannot be
equated in dollars and lira.
Signore Luca Carducci
at your service.
Inspector Thomas Brackenreid.
The pleasure is mine.
Apparently. I met Signore Carducci
at the unveiling last night.
He represents several European
galleries and is renowned
in international art circles.
Ah. Wonderful. I've asked him
for his expert advice.
Anything I can do to help
secure Bathsheba's return.
So in crass monetary terms, please,
Mr Carducci, how much is she worth?
A Rembrandt painted in 1654?
$40,000, perhaps more.
So it could be ransomed. Or sold to
some unscrupulous private collector.
I would think a work of art
as famous and costly as a Rembrandt
would be hard to sell.
In this provincial town? Absolutely.
So the thieves would want to get it
out of Toronto. But how? A fence?
Not here,
but there are such characters
in the international art world.
Where would they try to sell it?
Europe? Possibly, but more likely
New York or Buffalo.
The nouveau riche have a voracious
appetite for acquisition.
Thank you.
You've been very helpful.
You're most welcome,
and good luck, Signore.
Bloody arty types.
There is another possibility
here, sir.
Mr Pendrick could have
orchestrated his own theft.
Insurance fraud?
But why? The bugger's filthy rich.
Nevertheless, an avenue
we should explore. Agreed.
"Bathsheba At Her Bath".
A lady's bathing ritual
should not be spied upon.
Mr Pendrick? Ah, Detective.
Excuse me. I can't stop
thinking about poor Clarkson -
keeping the mind occupied helps.
Indeed. What are you working on?
It's a mechanism that will drive
a model of the solar system,
based on Eisinga's work.
The Dutchman who created
the planetarium? Yes, in 1781.
It's astonishing - he calculated
the movement of the planets
to an accuracy within seconds.
Fascinating man.
Amateur astronomer, wood carver...
Eisinga's model filled
an entire room. Mine will fit
into the palm of your hand.
It's remarkable. My wife took me to
a flea circus, I thought, "Why not
"combine the two ideas? Produce a
planetarium on a minuscule scale."
I myself am fascinated by the idea
that one day, tiny electrical
circuits will be capable
of calculating vast
mathematical algorithms.
Yes, you understand. Miniaturisation
is the key to the future.
Yet you designed
the tallest building in Toronto.
That thing? Obsolete
before the last rivet went in.
I'm already developing new alloys
that are lighter and stronger.
Now, have you any idea
who murdered Clarkson
and made off with the Rembrandt?
It's early stages still.
There's a strong possibility
you'll receive a ransom note.
If one arrives,
I will contact you immediately.
But surely, you didn't come here
to ask me the obvious.
No, I didn't.
I take it you had an insurance
policy on the painting?
I see.
Of course you have to ask,
I'd expect nothing less.
Yes, the Rembrandt was insured.
I'll need to see the policy.
I'll have it sent along.
Though I'm confident
your scientific mind will lead to
the recovery of the Rembrandt.
Thank you.
One more thing.
Clearly the Rembrandt
would be a coveted possession.
There was quite a frenzied
bidding process in Vienna.
Do you have any idea who
the other potential buyers
may have been?
That's a question for my wife.
The art world is her domain.
Where might I find Mrs Pendrick?
I believe she's by the pool.
Oh, excuse me.
I'm sorry.
Why hello, Detective Murdoch.
Perhaps another time would be
better, I'll... Nonsense.
We are trying to work here.
It's all right, Burt. Detective
Murdoch's investigation is far more
important than my portrait.
Rembrandt stolen, world ends.
Mr Lightman is very passionate
about modern art.
And his opinions, aren't you, Burt?
How can I help you, Detective?
Your husband tells me your purchase
of the Rembrandt caused quite a stir
in the art world.
My competitors pushed the bidding
higher and higher,
certain I'd lose my nerve.
Any idea who these
prospective buyers were?
All the prestigious galleries.
A few well-heeled individuals.
It was quite scandalous for
a woman to secure the painting.
Were any of them disgruntled enough
to steal it?
What a terrible thought.
But I suppose.
I'll need a list of names,
if possible.
Yes, of course.
Ice water?
Thank you.
Your comments last night
on Rembrandt's technique
tell me you're an art lover.
I was educated by Jesuits.
They use the Classics as hooks
to capture our young souls.
However, I'm less familiar
with the moderns.
Then allow me to
contribute to your education.
You must see Burt's work.
Oh, I... Mrs Pendrick,
the painting is not yet finished.
I must insist that he...
Don't be so precious, Burt.
Detective Murdoch is interested.
What's your first thought?
It's...a challenging composition.
I use only primary colours,
to better highlight the dynamic
tension between geometric figures.
Burt's style will light
the way of the future.
Then I'll be sure to
pay closer attention.
The Pendricks made quite an
impression when they first arrived.
Father says James Pendrick is brash,
but he never liked new ideas
upsetting his world order.
Mr Pendrick is something
of a revolutionary thinker.
So you and he are quite like-minded?
His wife seems refreshingly modern,
don't you think?
Yes. Quite modern.
Has your post-mortem
determined anything? Indeed.
As I suspected, the victim died from
a single stab wound to the heart.
But here's what's interesting.
The guard's right ankle was broken.
That's strange.
I saw him walk into the elevator.
There was no evidence of injury.
Agreed. Yet it is broken.
So how could he break an ankle
inside an elevator?
Could it have fallen?
The elevator didn't fall.
But the guard did.
Sir, how did he fall in an elevator?
He didn't fall in the elevator,
he fell into the elevator.
Thank you.
I'm not following you, sir.
There were two elevator cars.
Two elevator cars?
See?
Here. These are screw holes.
A second, false car
was built on top of this one.
So the guard and the painting
enter the false car.
As the elevator makes it way down,
the thieves, stationed in
the car below, open the hatch.
The guard falls into the car.
In doing so, he breaks his ankle.
The thieves murder him
and climb up into the false car.
The dead guard then continues his
journey down to the first floor.
So Constable Higgins and I discover
him in the real elevator car,
everyone assumes the crime
occurred there.
And while we're busying ourselves
searching down below,
the thieves and the painting
got out here, on the second floor.
I think I can take it
from there, sir.
They then dismantle
the false elevator car,
stash the materials somewhere nearby,
then go up to the third floor
where they escape down the rope.
No, George, the rope was a ruse.
They wanted us to think they escaped
from the third floor so we would
focus our search there. Why that?
How did they get the painting out of
a building surrounded by policemen?
Well, I don't imagine
they could, sir.
Precisely, meaning they didn't
leave the building immediately.
They laid low,
right under our noses
until the commotion passed.
Yes, and once we had left...
They slip off into the night.
That's a nervy pair of thieves, sir.
Yes, it's an ingenious plan.
And I think we've found
their hiding place.
George, have you your skeleton key?
The remains of the false elevator.
So, the thieves
removed the painting from its frame,
keeping it mounted
on the stretcher.
Waited for the coast to clear
before they made their getaway.
I agree with part of your theory,
sir.
Oh? What part don't you agree with?
The getaway part, actually.
Point taken, George.
Sir, if the thieves are dead,
who has the painting?
Both thieves died
in the same extraordinary manner.
A sharp, thin object
pierced the right eardrum, entering
the soft tissue of the brain.
They died of cerebral haemorrhage.
Murder weapon?
I'll have to examine both brains
to get an exact description.
Thank you, that would be
most helpful. Time of death?
I'd estimate they died in
the early hours of the morning,
between 3 and 4am.
Any defensive wounds? None.
So either the killer managed to
surprise two ruthless thieves...
Or they let their guard down.
But why would they do that?
Sir, do you have a moment?
Yes, of course, George.
I'm just inspecting
the dead thieves' clothing.
We followed up on the rope used in
the getaway. It's commonly obtained.
No merchants recall selling it
to anyone matching the thieves'
description. Finger marks?
Sorry, sir. I guess they used gloves.
That's unfortunate. Thank you.
Sir, I can't stop thinking
what a terrible way to die,
to have a sharp object
plunged into your ear canal.
Indeed. I see the killer's logic.
He needed to access the brain
without interceding bone matter.
Still, the ear seems such a delicate
part of the body. Yes, it does.
He could have gone up
through the nose, I suppose.
But that wouldn't be much better,
would it?
Then there's the eye socket.
That's even worse.
You'd see the weapon coming
towards you... Thank you, George.
That's quite enough.
Forgive me, sir. Terrible business.
George, did you speak with
the catering company? I did.
They reported no uniforms missing.
Then how did the thieves
obtain these?
I suppose they had them sewn up.
The company's uniforms were made
here in Toronto, were they not?
Yes, sir. Goldberg Tailors on
Spadina. Have you found something?
Yes, George. I believe
the art thieves were from Chicago.
Jonah Watson and Cyril Hughes.
Professional thieves
wanted in Chicago for
the armed robbery of several banks.
Dangerous characters but someone
managed to kill the pair of them.
I believe they were murdered
when they handed over the painting
to whomever hired them.
The partner who supplied them
with all the inside information.
Exactly, the mastermind behind
the theft. And then this mastermind
double crosses them.
Tying up all loose ends.
KNOCK AT DOOR
Come in.
Pendrick still
hasn't received a note.
I think we can
safely rule out ransom.
So where did the painting go?
No doubt on its way
to a private collector.
Actually, sirs, it might be that
your earlier instincts were correct.
I've already told you
I had the Rembrandt insured.
But you didn't mention you increased
the policy to $200,000.
The painting's value is
one fifth of that.
Do you see this Goya?
I paid $300 for it five years ago.
What do you wager it's worth today?
I suspect its value
has increased somewhat. Tenfold.
I've had offers of $3,000 and more,
but I like this one - it relaxes me.
And I'm told it matches the room.
You insure art for
what some fool may pay for it,
not what it's worth in the moment.
Is that what your art collection is
to you, Mr Pendrick, an investment?
I'm afraid it doesn't captivate
my mind as it does my wife's.
Shame, really.
Common interests
solidify a marriage.
And what woman do you know
has the least interest
in steel and concrete?
At any rate,
the value of the Rembrandt is moot
since I'm sure you'll recover it.
Is there anything else, Detective?
Yes, I'm wondering if you know
where Mr Carducci is.
Carducci. I can't be sure,
though I understand he takes an
interest in young, male painters.
Try Burt Lightman's studio.
I believe it's on the esplanade.
EXOTIC MUSIC PLAYS
CHATTERING
Detective Murdoch.
What a pleasant surprise.
Good day, Mrs Pendrick.
I see you're taking your interest
in the moderns seriously.
Actually, I'm here to see
Signore Carducci.
I believe he's monopolising
my favourite painter.
Signore Carducci, you're much
in demand. Detective Murdoch.
Have you brought us good news
about our lovely Bathsheba?
They're welcome to that old relic.
My dear Burt. Someday,
you'll be the old master
to our great-grandchildren.
You're too kind. No, Signora
Pendrick is right. This gentleman
will soon be the talk of all Europe.
Are you leaving us, Burt?
I'm going to Paris. Signore Carducci
will introduce me in all the right
circles. How marvellous.
So how can I be of assistance,
Detective?
Mrs Pendrick gave us a list of the
buyers who coveted the Rembrandt.
Thinking if they couldn't purchase
it, they would have it by whatever
means necessary. Precisely.
However, we've cleared most of them.
I was hoping you might have
some thoughts, given your
experience in the art world.
It sounds like you are, how do you
say it, grasping the straw?
I admit I seem to be quickly
running out of options.
I can most certainly prepare
a list for you, but I fear the
Rembrandt already hangs elsewhere.
Well, thank you for your time,
Signore Carducci.
Of course.
Do you like my portrait?
I'll admit a certain fascination
with Mr Lightman's style.
Well then, it's yours.
Just what is that?
A Burtrand Lightman.
A brave choice, sir.
I must say, there is something
strangely beguiling about this
new non-representational form.
It's not something I would have
chosen. We should put it up.
No, George. That won't be necessary.
But sir, it demands it.
Better light over here.
You really want to stare at
that, Murdoch?
It does have merit, sir, a step
into the art of the future.
Art of the future? My lad
could do better, and he's seven.
Anyway, it looks upside down.
I beg to differ, sir. This triangle
should be pointing upwards.
Like a pyramid.
It is the pyramids, right, sir?
What do you think, Murdoch, do you
know what the painting is about?
The moderns believe interpretation
lies in the eye of the beholder.
And just what is
your interpretation?
Er...
..It's a pyramid.
Detective, you're needed.
It's right up here, sir.
Burt Lightman, the artist.
The cause of death
appears the same as the robbers'.
But why on earth would someone
murder a struggling artist?
It would appear there's
no honour amongst thieves.
There's no question, Lightman
was killed by the same weapon
used to murder the two thieves.
You're quite sure? The shape of
the weapon was quite distinctive.
Same weapon, eh? Sounds like another
loose end being tied up to me.
Suggesting Mr Lightman
was part of the theft.
But what role does a modern artist
play in the theft of an old master?
Lightman despised the Old Masters.
Exactly, doctor. He was more likely
to burn it in an act of public
art protest than profit from it.
Perhaps. Or perhaps the man
did protest too much.
Sir!
Some of Lightman's work. Before
his geometric phase, I presume.
Seems he was quite talented
in a classical sense.
Classical?
I use only primary colours...
Berries and leaves, why that?
A vegetarian, perhaps?
Perhaps.
George, pack all of these up,
along with the sketches.
Sir.
What have you got there, Murdoch?
Pigments, sir. Used in making paint.
I know what pigments are.
What have they to do with this case?
Mr Lightman went to a great deal
of trouble to create these pigments.
Perhaps he wanted special colours
for his special paintings.
Yes, but Lightman only painted
in primary colours. No ochre. Mmm.
Well, I admit that is interesting.
What's more interesting,
this ochre colour is derived
from buckthorn berries
commonly used by the Old Masters,
particularly Rembrandt.
Why did Lightman want to make
the same pigment as Rembrandt?
Unless he wanted to paint like him.
You are correct, Detective,
this is the exact shade of ochre
Rembrandt used. Why do you ask?
I believe Lightman was either
about to, or had painted,
a forgery of Bathsheba At Her Bath.
That is ridiculous.
To copy a Rembrandt requires skills
Signore Lightman did not possess.
I believe he did.
We found sketches
in Mr Lightman's studio.
Clearly Mr Lightman
was classically trained.
So, let us say Burtrand
did paint a forgery.
What use is a worthless copy
to the thieves when they have
the priceless original?
What if the theft of the Rembrandt
was staged in order to sell
an unsuspecting buyer a forgery?
But any buyer would expect such a
well-known painting to be a forgery.
Even if the Rembrandt had been
stolen in a sensational robbery?
Ah, I see.
Then the buyer could conceive
they were purchasing the original.
But what if the new owner
discovers the truth?
That's the beauty of the plan.
The buyer has no recourse.
He has knowingly bought stolen
property and therefore cannot
report it to the authorities.
Incredible.
It is brilliant in its conception.
So a viable scenario then?
Indeed. Good.
Now all I have to do is prove it.
There must be some mistake.
Perhaps Burt stumbled on something
and was murdered as a result.
I'm afraid the evidence points to
only one conclusion, Mrs Pendrick.
I can't believe he was involved.
How could he betray me like this?
He was a frequent guest in my house.
Do you recall him paying
much attention to the Rembrandt
when he visited?
He was always free
to study my collection.
Could he have had time enough
to forge it? I don't see how.
The Rembrandt was on loan
to a gallery in New York
for most of the past year.
It returned home shortly
before the exhibition in Toronto.
I see. Thank you for your time.
I'll see myself out. Such a waste.
Though we have his work
to remember him by. Yes.
Who knows how much my portrait
might be worth in
a couple of years, Detective?
I do hope you're enjoying it.
It hangs in my office.
I can think of no higher compliment.
Hello, Julia.
William, there you are.
I have news of the murder weapon.
By mapping a cross section
of the victims' brains,
I've ascertained the weapon to be
an eighth of an inch in diameter,
and approximately five inches long.
Very unusual.
Perhaps something like a...
woodworking awl.
A rather specialized murder weapon,
don't you think?
Both efficient and precise when
thrust into the ear of the victim.
Indeed.
Thank you. It's my pleasure.
This painting... Yes.
It's a Burtrand Lightman.
I see. Well, it's truly shocking.
What makes you say that?
I believe we're looking at a woman
in a rather intimate pose.
Really?
I'd concluded it was a landscape...
A landscape? Perhaps inspired by the
stark beauty of the Canadian Shield.
Which is very...stark.
William, look again.
Surely the red triangle...
A pyramid. A pyramid?
On the Canadian Shield?
William, don't be obtuse.
It's the torso of a woman.
Sir?
I have that information you wanted.
Ah. I must be getting back.
I'll leave you to enjoy
your "landscape".
George. What did you find out
about Mr Lightman?
As you know,
the Rembrandt spent eight months
of last year in New York.
Funnily enough,
so did Burtrand Lightman.
Did he now? He secured a position
at the very gallery that
was displaying the Rembrandt.
Really? Night watchman.
So, Mr Lightman goes to New York,
paints the forgery. Our mastermind
has already lined up a buyer.
The grand theft is staged in Toronto.
And once the forgery is painted,
Mr Lightman is no longer needed
by the mastermind. He's killed.
But then, sir, if Lightman
created the forgery in New York,
why are the supplies to make
the pigments here in Toronto?
A very good question, George.
Well then, also,
how did the mastermind
plan on getting the painting
out of Toronto to the buyer?
Are you leaving us, Burt?
I'm going to Paris. How marvellous.
George, I'll need you to
pay a visit to the docks.
You found no baggage listed
under Burtrand Lightman's name?
There was nothing
in the manifest, sir.
Lightman would have transported
the forgery with him to Paris.
Perhaps the painting
was to go on a later passage?
No, he wouldn't risk it
being lost in transit.
We're missing something here.
Sir, by all means,
have a look for yourself.
His name is not on the manifest, sir.
No. But we should see
what Miss Hendrickje Stoffels
is shipping more than two centuries
after her death.
Hendrickje who? Hendrickje Stoffels.
Rembrandt's mistress,
and model of many years.
So, now we're an art historian,
are we?
The Bathsheba.
An excellent copy.
Sir?
It appears she has a twin sister.
The lad's been a busy boy.
These are quite remarkable.
Mr Lightman certainly was brazen.
Why sell one forgery
when you can move...five?
Four, George.
Four, sir?
Murdoch, there are five.
Yes, but only four are copies.
I believe this one
is the original Rembrandt.
Are you sure this is the original?
Because they all look alike to me.
Many painters
have a signature technique.
Rembrandt used a single layer
of coarsely-sieved quartz
as a canvas primer.
I've examined the medium
used on this canvas,
and it is indeed quartz.
Proving what?
This is Canada, Murdoch.
You can't go anywhere without
tripping over bloody quartz.
Not this type. However,
it is commonly found in Holland.
There is no question,
this is the Rembrandt.
Think of it, sir.
We are standing here, just as
he did, assessing his masterpiece
to pronounce it done and perfect.
Sir? Thousands of dollars
for some bare-arsed floozy
having her feet washed.
How did Lightman get it?
He had unfettered access
to the Pendrick collection.
I believe he switched the original
for a forgery he made in New York
on one such occasion.
So the painting exhibited at
the Pendrick Building, stolen by
the thieves, was a forgery.
So it would seem.
The sneaky little sod.
Do you think Lightman
took it to sell himself? Perhaps.
But he didn't account for the
treachery of his partner in crime.
Who killed him before he realized
Lightman had the original. Exactly.
So who's behind it all, Murdoch?
For the swindle to work,
the buyers must believe they
are purchasing the original.
So the original can't resurface
until the forgeries
have been delivered. Correct.
I believe it's time for Bathsheba
to return to her rightful owner.
You have exceeded my expectations,
Detective.
My wife will be delighted to see the
Rembrandt within these walls again.
Before you speak to her,
I have invited Signore Carducci
to authenticate the painting.
A mere formality. Detective,
no-one can replicate the master.
Agree, but I would feel more
assured we have the original
if you would take a closer look.
I cannot believe the audacity.
Is something wrong?
This is a forgery.
An excellent one, but...
Are you absolutely sure?
Look at the eyes.
The window to Bathsheba's soul.
The forger cannot capture
Rembrandt's depth of emotion.
But I don't understand...
This,
this is surely as great a crime.
To have her back once more
only to see her taken away.
I am terribly sorry to have raised
your hopes, sir. It is late.
I have a pressing engagement.
Good evening, gentlemen.
It's all right, Detective. If it
weren't for Signore Carducci, I too
would have judged this the original.
Interesting you should say that.
Please excuse me,
there is a matter I must attend to.
Yes, of course.
Mannaggia!
So that's where you hid it.
Detective... I, uh...
You what? Can explain?
I doubt that very much, Mr Carducci.
I just watched you declare
the real Rembrandt a forgery.
There was only one reason
to do that.
To maintain the swindle
you'd orchestrated. I admit nothing.
Except perhaps
going to a great deal of trouble
to steal a worthless fake.
Burt Lightman exchanged the
Rembrandt for one of his forgeries
while it was in the Pendrick home.
You, sir,
are a thief and a murderer.
But to orchestrate this
you had help.
Where did you get
the inside information you needed?
The building plans,
the movement of the painting?
Someone else had a hand in this.
Who was it?
Who are you working for?
As you already know, Detective, I am
a professional who abhors loose ends.
GUNSHOT
A rather clever design,
don't you think?
Carducci used this to kill
the two thieves and Lightman.
And almost you as well, sir.
Thank goodness Mr Pendrick
arrived when he did.
Quite impeccable timing on his part.
What do you mean?
There are pieces of this puzzle
Carducci took to the grave.
Like what? How did he know
the exact movements of the painting?
How did he orchestrate
the complex theft without
detailed inside information?
His hired guns
were disguised as caterers.
He had access to the building
days in advance.
But consider this.
Once forgeries are delivered
and the money is collected,
the original mysteriously reappears,
only one man benefits.
Pendrick? He'd have his money
and his original,
and no-one would suspect him.
You've caught the killer,
found the Rembrandt...
And prevented one of the biggest
art frauds in history.
Excellent point, Doctor.
Isn't that enough for you, Murdoch?
I will miss her.
But after such a dreadful turn
of events, I couldn't bear to have
the painting in the house any more.
I have persuaded James
to donate her to the Louvre. Oh.
That's very philanthropic of you.
But you will be needing
a replacement, Mrs Pendrick.
Might I suggest your
Burt Lightman portrait?
Really? You would part with it?
It would offer a refreshing modern
perspective to your collection.
That's very observant of you,
Detective.
I accept your offer,
but I trust you will come
and visit it from time to time?
It would be my pleasure.
Detective Murdoch. Congratulations.
Things couldn't have
turned out better.
Mr Pendrick. I believe
some of the credit goes to you.
I would not be here today were it
not for your timely intervention.
Pure luck, I assure you.
Tell me, what brought you
to the building last night?
I often go up there to look at
the night sky. Really?
What's the point of owning
the tallest building in Toronto
if you don't avail yourself
of its advantages?
And the gun?
I never venture out at night
without a firearm.
Detective, you seem unsettled.
In an odd way, Signore Carducci
and I are very similar.
We both dislike loose ends.
Loose ends?
With Signore Carducci dead,
we'll never be able to ascertain
the identity of his employer.
The true mastermind
behind this crime.
And what makes you think
he wasn't the true mastermind?
It's a theory. For now.
Mrs Pendrick, Mr Pendrick.
I bid you good day.
Good day, Detective Murdoch.
I trust our paths will cross again.
I will look forward to that.
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